January 2020 Redmond Chamber Business News

THE REDMOND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & CVB

BUSINESS NEWS JANUARY 2020

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Redmond Chamber of Commerce & CVB 446 SW 7th Street Redmond, OR 97756

Chamber Happenings

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2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS JENNIFER WERNER ALLIANCE PROFESSIONALS PRESIDENT JILL CUMMINGS SUMMIT BANK 1ST VICE PRESIDENT TINA REDD COCC – REDMOND CAMPUS 2ND VICE PRESIDENT LAURA GARCIA MAZATLAN MEXICAN RESTAURANT PAST PRESIDENT ROXIA THORTON TODOROFF DESCHUTES FAIR & EXPO CENTER DEBBIE BUTLER WORKSOURCE OREGON DAN MOONEY MOONEY MARKETING SEAN NEARY FITCH & NEARY PC JERRY KELLER SHINING ENTERPRISES JANITORIAL & CARPET CLEANING DAWN TOOMBS COMFORT SUITES REDMOND AIRPORT JOSH WERNER EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS DEBORA WATTENBURG YOUR CARE BEV CLARNO OREGON SECRETARY OF STATE PAT HUFFER CROOKED RIVER RANCH JOHN MEYER EDWARD JONES FINANCIAL ADVISOR BRENDA TURNER BRENDA TURNER CONSULTING ALEXANDRA GRUBA MEDLINE RENEWAL JOE CENTANNI CITY COUNCIL - CITY LIASON

ERIC SANDE Executive Director AMANDA GLASSER Finance/Membership Director

DIRECTOR’S

message HAPPY NEW YEAR!

by Eric Sande, Executive Director Another decade has come to a close and we are now ringing in the 2020’s. A century ago, it was the roaring 20’s. I cannot help but wonder, what is in store for the 2020’s, and will they be roaring? I guess we will have to wait and see. What I do know, is that time is flying. In preparation for this article, I looked back 20 years, to the year 2000. Do you remember all the hype about Y2K? In my news article back then, I reported that the Chamber was Y2K compliant and had no issues. If you remember, banks were nervous about their financial systems shutting down, airlines were worried about airplanes falling from the sky and general, it was potentially going to be total chaos. Well, none of that happened and life continued as usual. Looking back got me to thinking, has Redmond changed much in the last 20 years? Here is a little of what I uncovered looking in the 2000 Chamber Directory: City of Redmond & Deschutes County 2000 Demographic and Housing Profile Population in 2000: Redmond Deschutes County 12,810 106,700 Historic Population Redmond Deschutes County 6,452 (1980) 62,142 (1980) 7,165 (1990) 74,958 (1990) Projected Population Redmond Deschutes County 19,579 (2005) 117,887 (2005) 24,399 (2010) 128,868 (2010)

(Today’s Estimate Redmond Deschutes County 30,914 186,807) Taxes An owner-occupied home in the City of Redmond is taxed (1998-99) at: $19.1085 per $1,000 of assed valuation. Assessed value is 100% of the market value. The tax on a home with an assessed value of $96,500 would be $1,496.

Housing Homes and Acreage The average price for a home in Redmond is $108,189. The average price for a home in Redmond with acreage is $150,000. The average time a home is on the market is 108 days.

Rentals The average monthly cost of a rental in the Redmond area is $450 for a 2-bedroom, 1 bath apartment. The average rent for a 3-bedroom, 2 bath single-family house is approximately $650.

Airport The Redmond Airport is the only commercial service airport in Central Oregon. Scheduled service provides direct flights to Seattle, Portland and San Francisco. There are four national car rental companies located at the airport.

can see we have come a long way and have made significant advances (some may not seem like it).

What do you want to see happen in the coming year, and are you planning on this next decade to be the “roaring 20’s”? I know together, the Chamber can help accomplish amazing things, and we are excited for what lies ahead for Redmond.

The 2020 Official Visitor & Business Guide The Chamber team is currently working on the 2019 Visitor & Business Guide, which is scheduled to be in our hands by mid-February.

Each year we continue to make improvements to the Guide and we encourage you to make updates to your membership profile via the membership portal. The Visitor and Business Guide is our most widely requested piece and we encourage everyone to find out how they can be a part of this exciting publication. For more information, call or email Caleb Thomas and he will be happy to include you in this award winning publication.

From all of us here at the Redmond Chamber of Commerce & CVB, Happy New Year!

It is always good to pause at this time of year, take a deep breath and reflect on the past year. I like to ask how did the year go, was it what I expected? This process helps me prepare and plan for the coming year. In looking back 20 years I

CALEB THOMAS Marketing Director KARA ROATCH Events Director JENNA FOX Convention & Visitor Services 5 41- 9 2 3 - 5191

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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Art & Music Terry & Kepi 232 SW 5th St. 541-527-4426 Rollin' Spirits Co. Brooke Solomon 5712 S.E. David way Prineville, OR 97754 541-279-3883 K & R Sheetmetal Inc. Tenessa Coffman 106 SE Evergreen Ave. Ste.C Redmond, OR 97756 541-923-8511 Redmond Coffee Company Lisa Parker 1836 SW Veterans Way 541-668-1686 Cruise n Market & Deli Darin & Sheree Morris 843 NW 5th St Suite C Redmond, OR 97756 541-923-7533 Flash Dog Training John King 2234 SW 2nd Ct. Unit A 541-527-4423 Partnerships for Academically Creative Teaching Cheryl Hitson 541-548-0513 TriAgenics Inc Leigh Colby 525 SW Umatilla Avenue, Suite 102 541-543-3696

MEMBER Rimrock Trails Treatment Center

Rimrock Trails Treatment Center is thrilled to receive $1,500 from Northwestern Home Loans in Bend. This donation will allow the Rimrock Trails staff to purchase Christmas gifts for the teen residents in their Prineville residential treatment program.

“We want to thank our friends at Northwestern Home Loans for donating $1,500.00 to Rimrock Trails Treatment Services! The holiday season can be hard on our teen residents as they are away from their family and friends.

Generous donations such as this will help to brighten their season.” – Michelle Duff, Rimrock Trails Community Outreach Manager For nearly three decades Rimrock Trails has operated an adolescent residential treatment program in Crook County. The residential treatment program is one of only five in the State of Oregon, and serves adolescents 12-17 years of age with severe substance use disorders and addiction throughout the Northwest. To date, the residential program has served over 3,000 teens and their families.

Additionally, The Oregon Community Foundation recently granted Rimrock Trails Treatment Services $30,000 to hire a full-time Community Relations Manager. The position will assist Rimrock Trails in improving community access to mental health and substance

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use disorder treatment services, build relationships with community partners and educate the public on issues related to mental health and addiction. The award allows the organization to seek an additional $15,000 in the second year.

“We can't thank the Oregon Community Foundation enough for their generous award.

These monies have allowed us to hire a fulltime Community Outreach Coordinator who will integrate continuous community engagement and outreach strategies aimed at building awareness of our services and gaining support to further our mission well into the future.” - Erica Fuller-Hewitt, Executive Director, Rimrock Trails Treatment Services Rimrock Trails provides outpatient substance use and mental health treatment services for children, teens, adults and families in Prineville, Redmond and Bend, Oregon. In addition to the outpatient treatment program, for nearly three decades the organization has operated an adolescent residential treatment program in Crook County. The residential treatment program is one of only five in the State of Oregon, and serves adolescents 12-17 years of age with severe substance use and co-occurring mental health concerns. To date, the outpatient and residential treatment programs has served over 13,000 individuals and families.

Mid Oregon Credit Union

In an effort to address the shortage of workforce housing in Central Oregon, Mid Oregon Credit Union has introduced a new loan program to encourage the development of new affordable rental housing.

Mid Oregon’s Workforce Housing Loan Program offers interest rate subsidies of up to 2.5% for rental properties that maintain affordable rental rates for five years after loan funding. To qualify, rental rates could not exceed 30% of gross income for tenants earning between 60%-140% of Area Median Income (AMI). Current AMI in Deschutes County currently stands at $55,700 for a family of four. The program also offers a fixed interest rate for five years.

“We know that to have a thriving local economy over the long term, working families need access to stable and affordable housing,” says Kevin Cole, Executive VP of Mid Oregon Credit Union. “By helping property owners obtain the financing they need to develop and increase rental properties, we can make a significant contribution toward increasing the supply of local affordable housing.”

Funding for the interest rate subsidy for this loan program will come initially from a $100,000 grant Mid Oregon received from the Northwest Community Foundation (NWCUF) in spring 2019. This funding will

To submit a Member Byte, email your 150 word article to info@visitredmondoregon.com!

It’s a great time to join the Redmond Chamber and a better time to refer a new business! You will get $30 credit for each referral. Ask Amanda for more info.

Email amanda@visitredmondoregon.com or call 541-923-5191

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MEMBER Cont'd

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allow Mid Oregon to provide approximately $1 million in financing under the program.

The credit union will continue seeking additional non-profit and government partners to fund the program’s growth and expansion.

In addition to receiving below-market interest rates, property owners will benefit by having a more stable tenant pool and flexible underwriting standards that account for rent limits. Tenants should benefit through more stability in local rental rates, as well as a greater supply of available housing.

Interested borrowers seeking more details on lending guidelines and qualifications for the Workforce Housing Loan Program can contact Mortgage Manager Matt Mitchell at mmitchell@midoregon.com, or Director of Commercial Markets Steve Ferber at sferber@ midoregon.com.

Discover Your Forest

Discover Your Forest, in collaboration with the Deschutes National Forest and Mt. Bachelor Ski Area, is beginning their annual winter interpretive programs. The programs allow visitors to the Mt. Bachelor Ski Area to snowshoe, ski or snowboard with a ranger. All interpretive programs focus on the ecology, geology and wildlife of the Cascades.

Snowshoe programs will begin December 21st, 2019 and run through March 29th, 2020. Interested participants will meet at the Forest Service snowshoeing hut, located in the parking lot of Mt. Bachelor’s West Village.

There are two offered start times: 10:00 AM

and 1:30 PM. Tours are available on weekends and school break week days, with the exception of Christmas and New Year’s Day. Tours last 90 minutes and snowshoes are provided for the tour. No prior experience is needed.

Participants must be 8 years or older and should dress appropriately for cold weather.

On weekends beginning January 2nd, 2020 and running through March 29th, 2020, an interpretive ski and snowboard tour will also be offered on Mt. Bachelor’s groomed runs.

The tour, which lasts an hour, begins at 12:00 PM. Participants are responsible for having lift tickets and appropriate equipment, as well as basic riding skills.

While both programs are free, donations are suggested to help non-profit Discover Your Forest continue to provide educational programming and volunteer support to the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked River National Grassland. Reservations are not required for individual participants. Group tours for schools, youth or other organizations may be scheduled for weekdays.

Tour size is limited; first come, first served.

No pets. If you have any questions or would like to make a reservation for a school group or organization, please contact Karen Gentry, Discover Your Forest’s Director of Education at (541) 383-4771 or karen.gentry@discovernw.org.

home lending

PROUD SPONSOR OF REDMOND YOUTH

PEOPLE OF

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News about the people who are the driving force behind our members

Laura Dudley Central Oregon Heating, Cooling and Plumbing is thrilled to introduce Laura Dudley.

Laura exemplifies the true meaning of providing excellent customer service. Her experience spans 25 years and we are grateful that she chose to share her expertise with us. Laura coordinates all of our Madras area service and repair projects.

Iowa is where Laura was born. She moved to Lake Oswego as a teen and graduated from Pacific University in Forest Grove. She has also lived in Hawaii and Utah with the desire to make Central Oregon her home.

Laura is passionate about politics and animal welfare. She donates to local animal shelters and even has a few of her own “adoptees” at home. She loves to cook and travel with her

Call: 541-923-0910 -or- Text: 541-550-6194

purchase—refinance—renovation—construction

This month’s Words of Wisdom:

Shining Enterprises’ Question of the Month:

“Help Celebrate Jerry’s Birthday” Name goal16th!) you have (It’sone August for yourself this -Ruth Keller year?

Amber Wilson

Home Loan Officer NMLS 257927 CALL 541-699-8844 AmberWilson@UmpquaBank.com UmpquaBank/AWilson HLD17.679

husband.

Her 2 favorite quotes are: “You’re never wrong to do the right thing.” and “When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro.”

Well, Laura is definitely a Pro at doing the right thing!

Central Oregon Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is built on the premise that quality work and professionalism offered at a fair price results in satisfied customers. We continue our pledge to provide quality work, professionalism and fair prices to those who choose to use our services. We take our pledge very seriously.

Our word is our reputation and that is the basis of our business and commitment to our customers.

Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender

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2019 In Review

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WISHING YOU A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR WISHING YOU A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR

560 SW Columbia Street | 541-317-8000 | www.SBKO.bank

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560 SW Columbia Street | 541-317-8000 | www.SBKO.bank

Organize your website so it communicates the value you offer to your customers

So you'll need a copywriter.

Great copywriting is the key to building your business.

Hiring one is as easy as 1, 2, 3.

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RECOGNIZING THE BEST OF THE REDMOND BUSINESS COMMUNITY AT THE ANNUAL REDMOND CHAMBER AWARDS BANQUET

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2019 Join us in honoring those individuals and businesses who were outstanding in 2019. This is a exciting evening for Chamber members and the Redmond community to review the year’s accomplishments and look forward to the new year. Attendees will enjoy the wonderfully creative banquet tables decorated by member businesses, great giveaways, and who knows, perhaps you too will be taking home a coveted golden plate of your own!

This event is fun for all, and we, here at the Chamber, look forward to it every year.

It’s our opportunity to thank our Chamber Members, and to thank the community at large for outstanding services or products throughout the year. Our member businesses elaborately decorate the tables, and those seated at the table get to keep the gifts and centerpieces.

The Awards Dinner is Friday, January 17, 2020 and starts at 5:30 p.m. at the Eagle Crest Convention Center. Seasoned pros know the secret is to get to the event about 15 minutes early, so they’re ready for

the mad dash to the tables, as the seating is open and tables are not reserved. The cost is $45 per person, and you will need to RSVP online by going to visitredmondoregon.com, hovering over the Events Tab, clicking on the Awards Banquet page, and registering!

The Redmond Chamber recognizes businesses in several categories including the Redmond Citizen of the Year. Nominations for this year’s awards were accepted through Dec. 16. The Redmond Chamber Executive Board reviewed all nominations before choosing the final award recipients.

Criteria for each category includes: Citizen of the Year: Any citizen may be nominated for this award, which is selected based on outstanding service to the community in a volunteer capacity outside of his or her business, profession or vocation.

sourcefulness in the development of its business, product and/or service.

New Business or Product: This active Redmond Chamber member business must have recently opened or launched a new product, the development of which shows creativity and imagination.

Customer Service Award: This member business should excel in the area of outstanding service, providing an experience that is truly unique and rewarding to the customer.

We encourage you to be a part of this year’s event as we look at our entire community and recognize what makes it such a great place to live, work, and play.

RSVPs are required to attend this year’s Chamber Awards Banquet. To make a reservation, go to visitredmondoregon.com.

Business of the Year: This active Redmond Chamber member business should have demonstrated inspiration and re-

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RSVP TODAY! AWARDS BANQUET Agenda

RSVP BY: Monday, Jan 13, 2020 $45 Per Person RSVP Online at www.visitredmondoregon.com EVENT: Friday, January 17, 2020 NO HOST BAR: 5:30 p.m.

DOORS OPEN: 6:00 p.m.

DINNER: 6:30 p.m.

AWARDS: 7:15 p.m.

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BUSINESS HOP PA RT ICIPA N T ROUNDUP

THE REDMOND CHAMBER BUSINESS HOP WAS HELD IN DECEMBER AT COMFORT SUITES. HERE IS A ROUNDUP OF SOME OF OUR PARTICIPANTS, FOR THOSE UNABLE TO ATTEND DUE TO THE WEATHER.

HOP

Kids love that they all get to take home a beautiful painting to remember their friend’s special day. We also offer art class gift certificates for the holidays or as birthday gifts.

For more information please visit our website at: www.dandelionartcenter.com or call 541549-2223.

Dandelion Art Center is a welcoming place for people of all ages and abilities to join various arts & crafts classes and activities. Our vision is to provide a community art space that brings creative expression and compassion for one another together to enrich and brighten our lives.

I chose the name Dandelion because it is a symbol of resilience. I used to live with my two daughters in the Middle-East where I opened a learning center called Bright Minds. I taught kids art classes as a way to help children socialize and learn English. Admittedly, there were some difficult times living in the desert. One day, I noticed a small yellow flower growing through a crack through the concrete of our rooftop building. Even in the harshest conditions, somehow this little dandelion thrived.

We can all can grow and bring others joy and beauty.

Dandelion is a place for community to come together to express themselves, share their stories, experience presence, practice mindfulness, and grow friendships.

That is why we offer classes that engage children in activities that stimulate their minds and help them socialize. Our kids art classes are a great way for kids to get out of the house and challenge themselves to learn new art techniques.

We have kids art classes every Wednesday using a variety of mediums such as acrylic paint and clay. Each Thursday we have an art class for parents and kids to attend together! It’s a great way to spend time with your children, without screens. For parents who would like a night out, each Friday we offer Kids Paint Parents Night Out. So you can drop your kids off for some fun art inspired activities while you go out.

For adults, there are paint nights with live jazz music. We also have fun sewing classes for beginner and intermediate sewers. There is also Open Studio for anyone to come and create using our materials or they can begin their own project and work on Saturdays.

Dandelion Art Center is also great place for kids to celebrate their birthday because they have a lot of fun while they learn new skills.

For more than 54 years, the Opportunity Foundation of Central Oregon has worked to empower people of diverse abilities. We believe everyone has the fundamental right to live and work in supportive and inclusive communities.

Alongside a broad array of community partners we propel social change and encourage limitless possibilities.

We envision a world where all people live, learn, and work together in the spirit of our Values: dignity, equality, integrity, inclusion, choice, excellence and empowerment. Whether in search of employment, independent living, social interaction or personal growth, we provide personalized supports in which persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities have the opportunity to reach their goals and make their dreams come true.

In the last 3 years, our agency has developed community-based employment for 57 individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) in Central Oregon. As a result these individuals with I/DD have gained the opportunity to work in the community at places such as Target, McMennamins, and Michael’s, among many other local businesses.

We achieved this because of our partnerships with the Central Oregon community to improve access to employment opportunities for those who have I/DD. We hope you will support us by shopping or donating at our three thrift stores in Redmond, Bend, and Madras. We accept donations year round and we are actively seeking more clothing donations during the winter months. All of our stores offer a free pick up service within city limits for furniture or larger donations. If you are looking for a wonderful way to give back to our community please consider volunteering at one of our thrift stores.

We are opening a new drive-thru coffee kiosk as well as an antique/vintage store with high end items at bargain prices right next to our Redmond Thrift Store on Highway 97. The new place will be called Serendipity Antiques and Coffee. We hope to see you soon at one of our stores!

DANDELION ART CENTER

OPPORTUNITY FOUNDATION

MARY KAY COSMETICS I’m Penny Johnson, with Mary Kay Cosmetics, beautifying Central Oregon, one face at a time!

Let me tell you a little about Mary Kay, a real person, unlike Betty Crocker. She created her company 56 years ago, to give women a place to find success, in a climate where women were not thought of as having great business minds.

Despite being told by her CPA and attorney that her business would never succeed, succeed we have.

We are currently a no debt, $4.5 billion cosmetic company, operating in nearly 40 countries worldwide. We are still family owned, but not what you would think of as a mom & pop kind of business.

We are a company that has succeeded keeping the Golden Rule forefront in our company culture: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Mary Kay’s products are made in America, in our own state of the art facility, outside of Dallas, TX. It is the size of 8 football fields with 2 streets inside, plenty of space to expand and was completely paid for by completion, October 2018.

Our products are state of the art with the top scientists in their fields working in Research & Development, spending millions on safety and product development, and conducting 100s of 1000s of product tests each year for quality, safety and performance.

We have more than 300 beauty products in our line – innovative skin care, on-trend color cosmetics, body care & fragrances.

We are a company who does Good!

• We helped the National Arbor Foundation plant 1 million trees, reforesting where beetles, etc. had decimated forests.

• We’ve given over $28 million in grants to cancer research & related causes.

• We’ve given over $50 million in grants to shelters & programs to prevent domestic violence.

• We’ve granted nearly $3 million to domestic violence shelters to help survivors of abuse each year. 358,000 women & children seeking safety were served in 2018. Bend’s own Saving Grace has been a recipient of 2 of those grants.

• And, we’ve donated over $25,000 to domestic violence shelters in hurricane ravaged areas to help repair and rebuild.

Who am I? I am an Independent Sales Director – the Top 1% of Mary Kay. My job is to find women who want more: • More & better skincare;

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• More personal beauty, inside & out; • More opportunities to advance with no glass ceiling; • More personal growth in a safe place to grow; • More income: Mary Kay has more women making more than 6 figures & more women millionaires than any other company.

Why me?

• I am passionate about what I do. I absolutely love when a woman comes to me for a makeover and afterward tells me she feels beautiful for the 1st time in years, like my neighbor did 2 weeks ago.

• I carry full inventory, which means I have at least one of everything on my shelves, usually 2+ and almost 1 of everything open for sampling.

• I deliver, usually within 24 – 48 hours. I traveled to Eugene for a party last summer!

• And yes, I still do parties… most fun way to try our products & earn FREE. Like so many of you, I am a small business owner, so when you spend money with me I do a happy dance and that money gets spent here in our community, helping other small businesses grow.

ALSO PRESENT WERE: BLUEFISH DENTAL www.bluefishdental.com

DESCHUTES GIFT BASKETS www.deschutesgiftbaskets.com

GATEWAY MORTGAGE www.gatewayloan.com/locations/redmond-or/

HARDENBROOK HARDWOODS www.hardenbrookhardwoods.com

MANN MORTGAGE www.hardenbrookhardwoods.com

MID-OREGON PERSONNEL www.hardenbrookhardwoods.com

U.S. CELLULAR www.uscellular.com

U.S. CENSUS BUREAU www.census.gov

ECONOMIC update

By REDI Staff

WHY DOES AN ENTERPRISE ZONE MAT TER TO REDMOND? REDI is in the process of renewing its Enterprise Zone program with the State of Oregon for the Greater Redmond area. This program, established by State Legislature in 1975, has been a significant tool in an economic developer’s toolbox ever since.

What is an Enterprise Zone?

By definition, an Enterprise Zone (E-Zone) is an economically depressed area in which business growth is encouraged by the government through tax relief and financial concessions.

It is a geographical area with 0% tax on gains from the sale of assets and property sold within the zone. In order to qualify as an E-Zone, an area typically has to meet the State's definition of distress or blight, usually defined as having a relatively high rate of unemployment and/or job loss. Other common criteria include low income or education levels, population decline or high vacancy rate of buildings.

Sponsored by cities, ports, counties, or tribal governments, an Enterprise Zone typically serves as a focal point for local development efforts. There are currently 73 such zones creating opportunities for business investment across Oregon: 56 rural (generally a population

of 30,000 or less) and 17 urban. Local governments, or entities like EDCO and REDI are responsible for creating, amending, managing, and renewing most of these zones.

How do Enterprise Zones work?

Enterprise Zones offer qualifying businesses incentives, including property tax abatements and reductions in local development fees.

Oregon's E-Zones are a unique resource and an excellent opportunity for businesses growing or locating in Oregon. The program is one of REDI’s most effective recruitment and expansion tools, which provides qualifying traded-sector companies with tax abatements on certain new real property investments. It is available to new companies who are looking to begin operations or those looking to relocate to the area, but it’s also a valuable tool to those that are already operating here. For a qualifying company, it provides a cost savings during the first years of their investment on items such as new buildings, expansions and renovations and/or production equipment. For a local sponsor (cities and counties), it is a way to attract new investment and jobs with companies that might otherwise choose to locate else-

where. While there is a short-term cost to the sponsor (typically three years of property tax exemption), there is significant medium and long-term net gain for the community. Learn more about the Greater Redmond Enterprise Zone program by visiting our website: https:// rediinfo.com/incentives-tools.

Why does an Enterprise Zone matter to Redmond?

Last renewed in Redmond in 2009, each zone designation lasts 10 years and must be redesignated by application to Business Oregon, the State’s Economic Development agency.

First established in Redmond in 1988, the program has assisted 156 companies create 3,373 jobs and invest over $165.5 million dollars in Redmond alone. The re-designation process requires proof that the program is needed and that it has a high probability of success. Redmond’s zone is the most active in the State, with over 36 businesses participating, which has helped increase manufacturing employment by over 70% over the last eight years.

At the December 10th Redmond City Council meeting, Council directed REDI and City Staff to proceed with the application for re-

designation (due June 1, 2020). In order to remain competitive with the other 72 zones in the state, Redmond will continue to waive the application fee, and reduce fees for permits, System Development Charges (SDC’s), water and sewer usage, and hook-up fees. An additional benefit that sets Redmond apart is an expedited permitting process.

It isn’t all “rose-colored glasses”, however, as the State Legislature is considering requiring companies participating in the E-Zone to pay prevailing wages for construction of new buildings. If this requirement becomes law, it would render the program useless as it would cost more to pay prevailing wages than the property tax abatement would produce, even over a fiveyear period. REDI continues to oppose such requirements and will closely follow the next Legislative session, starting in January.

In summary, this program has been invaluable to communities across the State, particularly in Redmond, and we are committed to its renewal.

If you have questions about REDI and the work we do, please visit rediinfo.com or call 541.923.5223 for more information.

DIAMOND INVESTORS:

PLATINUM INVESTORS:

GOLD INVESTORS:

Smith Rock

Electric HOME LENDING AMBER WILSON

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LIBRARIAN on call

by Graham Fox, Community Librarian

DESCHUTES PUBLIC LIBRARY BRINGS IN WORLD FAMOUS WRITERS WITH THEIR “AUTHOR! AUTHOR!” SERIES The Deschutes Public Library Foundation’s Author! Author! literary series returns to the stage in 2020 with three bestselling and prolific authors, all of whom have found critical acclaim while still appealing to a broad audience: Barry Lopez, Susan Orlean and Michael Pollan. With 35 books between them, as well as a host of awards and honors, the trio will bring dynamic perspectives and intriguing conversation points that will engage the Central Oregon community.

BARRY LOPEZ | Thursday, January 23, 2020 | 7:00 p.m. | Bend High School Auditorium Called “the nation’s premier nature writer” by the San Francisco Chronicle, Barry Lopez has written 17 fiction and non-fiction books, as well as an anthology. His 1986 book Arctic Dreams received the National Book Award, and Of Wolves and Men (1978) was also a National Book Award finalist. Lopez’s other works include Field Notes, Resistance, and, his most recent, Horizon.

SUSAN ORLEAN | Wednesday, February 19, 2020 | 7:00 p.m. | Bend High School Auditorium Susan Orlean’s most recent release is the New York Times bestseller The Library Book, which was named a Washington Post Top 10 Book of the Year and a New York Times Notable Book of 2018. She is the author of seven books in total, including Rin Tin Tin and The Or-

chid Thief, which was made into the Academy Award-winning film Adaptation. Orlean is also a staff writer at The New Yorker.

MICHAEL POLLAN | Wednesday, March 4, 2020 | 7:00 p.m. | Bend High School Auditorium New York Times bestselling author and journalist Michael Pollan writes books and articles about the places where nature and culture intersect: on our plates, in our farms and gardens, and in our minds. His bestselling books include The Omnivore’s Dilemma, The Botany of Desire, In Defense of Food, and Food Rules. His most recent book is How to Change Your Mind.

Series tickets are available at www.dplfoundation.org

STAFFPicks

Staff Picks: Cozy Winter Reads The cold wind, rain and snow are here. What better time to sit inside on a dark (4.30 P.M.) evening and read a great book! Here’s a few selections from my 50 book winter reading guide (https://dpl.bibliocommons.com/list/ share/362560137/1536718739) Underland: A Deep Time Journey

by Robert Mcfarlane Robert Macfarlane is the celebrated author of books about the intersections of the human and the natural realms. In Underland, he delivers his masterpiece: an epic exploration of the Earth’s underworlds as they exist in myth, literature, memory, and the land itself.

Furious Hours: Murder, Fraud, and the Last Trial of Harper Lee by Casey Cep A vividly told, elegiac account of Harper Lee's quest to write a second book after To Kill a Mockingbird, and a deeply moving portrait of this beloved writer's struggle with fame, success, and the mysteries of artistic creativity

Fall; Or, Dodge in Hell

by Neal Stephenson The #1 New York Times bestselling author returns with a wildly inventive and entertaining science fiction thriller--Paradise Lost by way of Philip K. Dick--that unfolds in the near future, in parallel worlds.

The Grammarians by Cathleen Schine The Grammarians are Laurel and Daphne Wolfe, identical, inseparable redheaded twins who share an obsession with words. They

Contact me For Research Help!

Book-a-Librarian: Do you have an a research related questions? You can ask me (or other librarians) anything by using our Book-a-Librarian feature! We’ve recently fielded questions ranging from business report demographics to campaign finance records to forgotten book titles. Submit questions at https://www.deschuteslibrary.org/services/book-a-librarian I’m always open to meet to discuss business plans, grants, grant finding, demographics, research, and more! You can contact me by emailing GrahamF@Deschuteslibrary.org or calling 541-312-1066.

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speak a secret "twin" tongue of their own as toddlers; as adults making their way in 1980s Manhattan, their verbal infatuation continues The Shadow King by Maaza Mengiste A gorgeously crafted exploration of female power, with Hirut as the fierce, original, and brilliant voice at its heart. In incandescent, lyrical prose, Maaza Mengiste breathes life into complicated characters on both sides of the battle line, shaping a heartrending, indelible exploration of what it means to be a woman at war.

Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson A moving and uproarious novel about a woman who finds meaning in her life when she begins caring for two children with remarkable and disturbing abilities. Wilson has written a most unusual story of deep parental love.

Your House Will Pay by Steph Cha A suspense-filled page-turner about murder, repentance, and forgiveness. When a shocking crime hits LA, two families are forced to face down their history while navigating the tumult of a city on the brink of violence.

Olive, Again by Elizabeth Strout Whether it's a young girl coming to terms with the loss of her father, a young woman about to give birth at a baby shower, or a nurse who confesses a secret high school crush, the irascible Olive improbably touches the lives of others.

LIBRARY happenings

Ringing in the New Year Escape Room A New Year’s themed escape room for adults. Registration required.

Wednesday, January 8th Android Basics Learn the basics of using your Android smartphone or tablet.

Friday, January 17th, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Android Camera Basics Learn the basics of using your Android camera to take better pictures.

Friday, January 24th, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Find Your Next Read Learn about resources librarians use to find new books!

Friday, January 31st, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.

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REDMOND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & CVB

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AMBASSADOR 50/50 PROGRAM Together we have helped 9 non-profits and raised a total of $2,700 in 2019!

14 | REDMOND CH A MBER OF COM MERCE & C V B | BUSINESS NE W S | W W W.V ISI T REDMONDOREGON.COM

PRESIDENT’S

message

by Jennifer Werner, 2020 Chamber Board President

NEW YEAR, NEW GOALS

Ref lecting on the year that was, and looking ahead to the year to come.

Happy New Year to all!

I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and had safe travels. I am fortunate to have my family close for the holidays, so we do not need to travel far. For those who may not know me, my name is Jennifer Werner, and I am a CPA and partner at Alliance Professionals here in Redmond. I have been with my firm for 15 years and have lived in Central Oregon my entire life. I am so thankful for the opportunity to serve you as your 2020 Redmond Chamber Board President. If you’d like to know more about me or the Redmond Chamber of Commerce and CVB, just reach out. I’d love the opportunity to meet with you.

The holiday season is always a special time for me. I love seeing all of the beautiful Christmas decorations and lights downtown, and I am

thankful for the local vendors, city and Chamber staff, and Chamber ambassadors who help make this happen. It is also wonderful to see so many in our community embracing the spirit of Christmas by helping others through giving and volunteer work. I thank you all for making our hometown what it is today. It wouldn’t be the same without you.

My resolution for this year is to make that extra effort to volunteer and make a difference in our town. I ask you to join me in this goal. Be committed, volunteer at that event, buy those girl scout cookies, support that youth sports program, purchase from that local vendor, and sponsor that non-profit fundraising event. We can make a difference if we join together and get involved.

Redmond Chamber Annual Awards Banquet January is a great month to honor businesses and individuals who go above and beyond in our community. The Redmond Chamber’s Annual Awards Banquet is Friday, January 17th, so mark your calendars and come join us as we recognize the work and accomplishments of individuals and businesses in the Redmond area. As the year progresses, keep an eye out for those who are making a difference and keep them in mind for next year’s awards banquet.

We look for those who stand out with great customer service, community involvement and volunteer work, or providing an exciting new design, product or service to Redmond. Be sure to thank those individuals and businesses along the way and support local.

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Tax Tips Tax season is upon us. For many, it is a giant darkness that looms around the corner after the holidays. It can be daunting gathering up the information needed to complete your income tax returns. Be sure to get 1099s and W-2s out on time and remember to file copies electronically with Oregon as well. Also, make sure to speak with your accountant about new tax laws that have been passed and how they might affect your business. Being proactive in understanding these new changes will help avoid surprises down the road.

REDMOND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & CVB

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COFFEE CLATTERS FRIDAYS • 8:30-9:30 A.M. FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2020 8:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. REDMOND ATHLETIC CLUB 1717 NE 2ND ST. 541-923-6662 FRIDAY, JANUARY 10, 2020 8:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. REDMOND COFFEE CO. & CHRIS RITCHIE EDWARD JONES 3716 SW 21ST PLACE STE A. 541-699-0015 FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2020 8:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. CONSUMER CELLULAR 2999 SW 6TH AVE 541-639-8630 FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2020 8:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. COUNTRY SIDE LIVING 1350 NW CANAL BLVD. 541-548-3049 FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 8:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. SELCO COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION 825 SW 17TH ST 541-312-1880

MEETINGS & events

Friday, January 3, 2020 First Friday 4-7 p.m.

Downtown Redmond Join us for Redmond’s own First Friday! There will be art on display, musicians, and makers showing off their creations.

541-923-5191

Friday, January 17, 2020 Redmond Chamber’s Awards Banquet and Annual Meeting Eagle Crest Convention Center 5:30pm Check In, 6pm Social Hour, 7pm Dinner, 8pm Awards Reservations REQUIRED; $45 per person R.S.V.P. by Jan. 10th online at visitredmondoregon.com

Tuesday, January 14, 2020 Redmond Downtown Association Meeting 12:00pm - 1:00pm SCP Redmond Hotel Join us as we discuss the fabulous holiday events that are coming up in downtown Redmond. Community Members are welcome to join!

521 SW 6th st 541-923-5191

Friday, January 27, 2020 Redmond Chamber Membership Class 10am - 11am Redmond Chamber of Commerce Office Come learn how to take full advantage of your Redmond Chamber Membership! Contact Amanda Glasser for more information and to sign up!

446 SW 7th St 541-923-5191

For more events check out RedmondBuzz Buzz.com