Cattlemen Care & Always Have - Page 8
The Espresso Wagon - Page 12
Gem Theater Receives Grant -Page 19
NORTHEAST OREGON BUSINESS NEWS Business, Ar t, Culture, Outdoors, Travel & Enter tainment
Volume 2 - Issue 3 free
Serving Baker, Morrow, Umatilla, Union and Wallowa Counties
Alice Trindle wins Governor’s Toursim Award
Free
MAY/JUNE 2015
Love’s Travel Stop near Boardman - One Step Closer to Reality
By Lori Kimbel
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he Oregon Tourism Commission (dba Travel Oregon) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2014 Travel and Tourism Industry Achievement Awards, presented at the 2015 Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Eugene, Ore. The annual awards recognize people and organizations across the state that go the extra mile to enhance the travel and tourism industry in Oregon. The award recipients are outstanding examples of professionals who, by virtue of their vision, perseverance and dedication, are a credit to Oregon’s tourism and hospitality industry. The state’s most prized recognition is the Governor’s Tourism Award. This year’s award was given to Alice Trindle, Executive Director of the Eastern Oregon Visitors Association. A tireless worker with an uncanny knack for building partnerships, Trindle has led the way in placing the great expanse of Eastern Oregon in the eyes of visitors. “It’s an honor to recognize Alice for her passion and decades of service to Oregon’s travel and tourism industry,” said Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon. “She has an incredible ability to accomplish great undertakings with a limited budget. She is also a champion of building local partnerships to help Eastern Oregon achieve much more than any one person or entity could do on their own, all while ensuring that the region maintains its unique character and charm.” The Oregon Heritage Tourism Award recognizes outstanding incorporation of Oregon’s authentic cultural or natural history as a way to draw visitors to the state. One of only two mobile historic districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Sumpter Valley Railroad was named the winner of this year’s award.
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f all goes according to plan construction on the roughly 10,000 square foot Love’s Travel Stop could begin in June at the Tower Road Exit off of I-84 near Boardman, and is expected to be opened for business by Spring 2016. “All of our conditional use permits are complete,” said Kealey Dorian, communication specialist Continued on Page 8
Love’s Travel Stop in Choctaw, Oklahoma
Guardian Angel Homes to Have Groundbreaking in Hermiston in May Guardian Angel Homes is excited to announce the groundbreaking of their new Memory Care homes specializing in the care of individuals with Alzheimer’s or Dementia. This event will be held Thursday, May 14th at 3pm on the back patio of Guardian Angel Homes located at 540 NW 12th street in Hermiston. The public is welcome and invited to attend this community event. The Guardian Angel Homes story began in 1996 with a down-to-earth family man whose philosophy has always been to help others and treat everyone like family. With passion and perseverance, he created the award winning
design (Assisted Living Federation of America “Best of Home Design”) that is known today as Guardian Angel Homes, a leader in Assisted Living as well as Alzheimer’s and dementia Care. When his own mother and mother-in-law moved into one of the homes, this family owned and operated business truly became about treating residents and staff just like family. Continued on Page 15
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Wow, this is the sixth issue of Northeast Oregon Business News and marks my one year anniversary of publishing this paper for the people of NE
Oregon. I have met so many great people over this past year and I am very excited for what the future holds for people in NE Oregon as the business landscape continues to change. I appreciate everyone support over this past year and I will strive to continue to make each and every
Northeast Oregon Business News better than the one before. Like always there are great things happening in NE Oregon. Love’s Travel Stop is getting ready to start construction at their Tower Road location in Morrow County, Eastern Oregon University has narrowed down their search for a president to four people, Cattle Baron’s Weekend is coming up in May along with the Eastern Oregon Film Festival. Enjoy the issue Lori Kimbel
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BUSINESS
Northeast Oregon Business News
From the Desk of Bryon Smith - Hermiston City Manager I
arrived in Hermiston on August 25, 2015 to become this City’s fourth city manager in approximately 45 years. This average tenure for a city manager is amazing and speaks very highly of this community and its political leadership. Since arriving in late August of 2014, I have been working to understand in more detail issues that affect the City of Hermiston. I have also been getting to know community leaders especially the city council. As part of that getting to know you process, I led a council goal setting process. It turned out to be a valuable opportunity to get both elected and appointed city leaders together to discuss the future of the City of Hermiston. First, the executive staff of the City got together. The agenda for this meeting started with a few minutes to celebrate the successes of the City of Hermiston. Next we talked through various issues, challenges and opportunities the staff felt were in the future for the City of Hermiston. Lastly, the staff discussed and prioritized a long list of potential new programs or capital projects. A month and a half later, the Mayor and City Council participated in a goal setting
session similar to the process experienced by the staff. They took the staff ’s input on priorities and then made their own priorities. The priorities in both programs and projects fell into two major areas: investing in infrastructure (new or old) and enhancing the livability of the City of Hermiston.
Following are the Council priorities for the new or enhanced programs: Top Priorities • Proactive Approach to Code Enforcement • Skateboard Park • Community Clean-up Events Medium Priorities • Planning for a library expansion in a digital world • Studying the benefits of the rail line through the center of town • Aesthetic Standards for signs, water towers, etc. • Update and Implement a water master plan • Develop more parks and trails Following are the Council priorities for new capital projects: Top Priorities • Industrial Area Natural Gas Line Construction • NE Park Development • Pave remaining gravel or dirt streets
• Retrofit sidewalks/pathways on older streets • Develop a City/County Shooting Range Medium Priorities • Participate actively in Existing Fairgrounds Redevelopment • Develop public transportation • Renovate aging infrastructure in the sewer collection system • Establish an equipment replacement fund • Renovate and increase capacity in the Alora Heights Booster Station Staff Prioritized Programs • Develop and implement a Capital Improvement Plan • Develop a workable solution for increasing amounts of leave (sick and vacation) available to long-term employees • Implement GIS Mapping Program Staff Capital Project Priorities • New City Hall • Add back-up electric power at critical water supply sources • Construct more water storage This list of programs and projects is an ambitious list to tackle. Staff will put together timelines and work to implement these priorities. Accomplishing these things and others will continue to make Hermiston the favored place to live and do business in Eastern Oregon.
State Grants Awarded to Jumpstart New Biomass-Based Businesses F
our eastern Oregon businesses - and local forests - stand to benefit from grants totaling $110,000 for biomass use, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) announced today. The U.S. Forest Service-provided grant funding has been awarded by ODF to these businesses: - Ochoco Lumber of John Day - $25,000 Cohesive Wildfire Strategy grant - Wallowa Resource Community Solutions Inc. of Enterprise - $30,000 Cohesive Wildfire Strategy grant - Heritage Sustainable Resources of North Powder $25,000 Cohesive Wildfire Strategy grant - North Slope Resources Co. of North Powder - $30,000 East Face Restoration Project grant “The grant funding provided by our federal partners is aimed at forging solutions to forest health and community vitality,” said Marcus Kauffman, ODF’s
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biomass resource specialist. “The grants are designed to provide business the resources to jumpstart new ventures that will utilize the low-value material resulting from forest health treatments.” Overgrown conditions in many eastside forests pose a severe wildfire threat to adjacent communities and privately owned forests. Thinning can restore health and fire resiliency to the forests, but treatment costs are high--there’s little value in the small trees and brush removed from forest restoration. Ongoing investments into business that convert forest biomass into high-value products helps offset the expense of fuels reduction and enables treatment of larger areas. “By creating demand for the by-products of restoration, we can accelerate the pace and scale of restoration while putting more people to work,” says Kauffman. The grant recipients have earmarked the dollars for a diverse array of projects: - Ochoco Lumber intends
to use its grant to explore the commercial viability of a torrefied wood facility in Grant County. Torrefaction is a thermal process used to produce high-grade solid biofuels from woody biomass. If proven to be viable, Ochoco would sell torrefied wood to coalfired power plants to reduce their carbon emissions. - Wallowa Resource Community Solutions Inc. plans to use the funds to design and engineer the conversion of three public buildings in downtown Enterprise from expensive heating oil to regionally produced woody biomass. - Heritage Sustainable Resources, a new start up, will use their award to design and engineer a kiln-dried commercial firewood operation in North Powder. - North Slope Resources Co., a local agricultural operation, aims to spend its grant award on a project to use local low-value biomass to add value to and diversify its agricultural operation in North Powder. The Cohesive Wildfire
Strategy is a national initiative to make meaningful progress toward the goals of creating resilient landscapes, promoting fire-adapted communities, and developing a safe and effective wildfire response. The East Face Restoration Project aims to restore forest health to the East Face of the Elkhorn Mountains, an area that encompasses federal, state and private forestlands in northeastern Oregon and southeastern Washington. Kauffman said six project proposals were received and four chosen to receive grants. “The selected projects show that the spirit of entrepreneurism and innovation is alive and kicking in northeast Oregon,” he said.
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Northeast Oregon Business News Business Directory
BANKING
BUSINESS ADVICE
BUSINESS ADVICE
HOME LOANS
Community Bank Joseph, Oregon 97846 541-432-9050 www.communitybanknet.com
Small Business Development Center 1607 Gekeler Lane La Grande, Oregon 97850 541-962-1532 www.eousbdc.com
Small Business Development www.bluecc.edu/busind_sbdc 2411 NW Carden Pendleton, Oregon 97801 541-278-5833
Community Bank 609 N. Main Street Joseph, Oregon 97846 541-432-9050 www.communitybanknet.com
INSURANCE
MASSAGE
MOVING & STORAGE
SPORTS APPAREL
Wheatland
Kenna Collins
229 SW First Pendleton, Oregon 97801
Licensed Massage Therapist Elgin, Oregon 541-663-6277
541-293-2124
Mountain West Moving & Storage
UEC Joins in Acquisition of Coffin Butte Project On March 31, 2015, Umatilla Electric joined with 13 other Northwest electric cooperatives, as PNGC Power, to acquire the Coffin Butte Landfill Project, located in Corvallis, Ore. The seller is Power Resources Cooperative. The project generates clean, renewable power from landfill gas, which is a natural by-product of the organic matter in the neighboring regional landfill, owned by Valley Landfills, Inc. “Acquiring this project is an important step forward for PNGC Power and our members,” said Dave Hagen, PNGC Power Board Chair and General Manager of Clearwater Power Company of Lewiston, Idaho. “Coffin Butte is a great resource that will produce renewable power for many years to come.” PNGC Power, based in Portland, Oregon, is an electric generation and transmission (G&T) cooperative owned by 14 Northwest electric distribution cooperative utilities (including
Umatilla Electric) with service territories in seven western states. In addition to serving the wholesale power and transmission needs of our member utilities, PNGC represents the interests of its members in various policy and legal forums. The Coffin Butte Landfill Project began in 1995, and allowed several electric cooperatives to support renewable resources in the Northwest. Up until the end of March, PNGC Power provided operational and management expertise. Now, this resource is under PNGC ownership and belongs to PNGC’s 14 electric cooperative owner-members. The Coffin Butte Landfill Project has a capacity of 5.66 megawatts, which is roughly enough to power about 4,000 homes. This purchase continues PNGC Power’s commitment to resource ownership and renewable resources as the cooperative continues to plan for the future.
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Volume 2 - Issue 3 - May - June 2015 Publisher Lori Kimbel lorikimbel@neobn.com PO Box 295 Elgin, Oregon 97827 541-910-1096 10,000 distributed every other month. Serving Baker, Morrow, Umatilla, Union and Wallowa Counties www.facebook.com/neorbn www.linkedin.com/in/lorikimbel Twitter - neobnlori www.justanotherhatpublishingcompany.com www.neobn.com www.lorikimbelphotography.com Northeast Oregon Business News is owned and published by Just Another Hat Publishing Company, LLC POSTMASTER: send address changes to Just Another Hat Publishing Company, LLC, PO Box 295, Elgin, Oregon 97827 Subscription Rates: To subscribe to Northeast Oregon Business News Mail $24 to PO Box 295, Elgin, Oregon 97827
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BUSINESS
Northeast Oregon Business News
C attl emen Ca re: A l w a y s H a v e , A lw a y s Will
By Kayli Hanley
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n Tuesday, March 31st, the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association Executive Board unanimously voted to amend the National Resource Conservation Fee program. The NRCF will now only be assessed in the five, core sage-grouse counties. These counties are, Baker, Malheur, Harney, Lake and Crook. Aside from the amendment stated here, all other provisions of the bill will remain including the five year sunset. The bill has not yet been released from the legislative counsel as discussions are being held regarding amendments to HB 2401, also known as the Wild Bird Feed Excise Tax. Since Oregon’s start in 1859, its land has needed to be worked and its livestock have needed to be cared for. Ranchers stepped up and took on the task; quiet leaders striving to keep nature thriving. Years later, some Oregonians question rancher’s support for the environment. Ranchers are bringing forward a public declaration of their support for conservation in the form of what the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association is calling a “Natural Resource Conservation Fee.” The fee works by taking $1 per head assessment at the time of an already required brand inspection. It will then be up to local soil and water conservation districts to award that money to ranchers working on conservation projects to help the environment. The fee is not limited to one species or environmental concern, but goes toward any wildlife or environmental challenge individual counties are facing. Ranchers have to give to-
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ward the assessment in order to be eligible to receive money back for their conservation projects. There will be a 5 year sunset on the bill. Ray Sessler, president of the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, said, “(the fee) is a public declaration of what ranchers have been working hard to accomplish all along. That is, take care of Oregon’s environment.” He said the cattlemen are self-assessing themselves in order to help not only the environment and wildlife, but Oregon’s communities as well. The fee will work to assist ranchers with a variety of conservation projects. John O’Keeffe, president elect of the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, said he is optimistic the fee will add additional support to stabilizing ranching communities. He also wants the public to see how hard ranchers work to keep Oregon’s wildlife healthy. “I hope the public will appreciate the livestock industry stepping up to bring forward resources to conserve these species,” O’Keeffe said. Brett Brownscombe, acting deputy director for Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, believes the bill has great potential to help prevent a Sage-Grouse listing. Brownscombe also noted that this is not the first action ranchers have taken to help support conservation. “This fee adds to their efforts. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” he said. Support for the fee comes from others as well. Tom Sharp, a Harney County rancher, said, “I believe it is important to support the bill because the fee increases will go back to the conservation projects through
SWCD offices.” Sharp appreciates the flexibility the fee provides for supporting different conservation projects according to different county’s needs. The efforts of Oregon ranchers are not going un-noticed. Paul Henson, state supervisor for USFW, said, “In general, I have been very impressed by OCA’s and local ranchers’ honest and constructive participation in these efforts to find collaborative ways to avoid the need to list the SageGrouse.” Henson added, “They have been making some significant sacrifices of their time and resources.” As a hard-working Oregon
rancher, Sharp hopes the public will realize one large concept from this bill; “Ranchers are conservationists too.” While the Cattlemen’s Association prepares to move the bill forward, O’Keeffe notes that this isn’t some last resort effort, but rather an outward declaration of years of behind the scenes work. “Ranchers are in this for the long haul.” The Oregon Cattlemen’s Association was founded in 1913 and works to promote environmentally and socially sound industry practices, improve and strengthen the economics of the industry, and protect its industry communities and private property rights.
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Northeast Oregon Business News
EOU Announces Four Presidential Finalists
president at Dakota State University in Madison, S.D. in 2014 and has increased enrollments in both on their campus and online programs. She has also received grants for American Indian and low-income students, implemented student success and retention models, developed and implemented strategic plans and has been involved with fundraising. Rames previously worked at South Dakota State University in Brookings, S.D., as vice president for student affairs from 2000-2014. Cynthia Pemberton serves as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Dickinson State University in Dickinson, N.D. She is a former coach, the author of two books and has published numerous papers and presented nationally and internationally. Her experience includes accreditation astern Oregon University announced work, adult and distance education and she has today that four finalists have been selected in been recommended for the Fulbright Specialist the search for the school’s next president. The roster to consult internationally in higher educandidates will visit campus beginning next cation leadership. Pemberton worked at Idaho week. State University in Pocatello, Idaho, from Following a national recruitment pro1998-2012 as associate dean of the graduate cess, the search committee forwarded the final- school and interim dean previous to joining ists to the Oregon University System Chancel- Dickinson State. lor for consideration. The successful candidate Tom Insko is area manager of Boise will replace Interim President Jay Kenton and Cascade’s Inland Region in La Grande and is expected to begin their duties this summer. oversees multiple operations for northeast Oregon, northeast Washington and southwest The finalists: Idaho. Insko has worked with Boise Cascade Marysz Rames was appointed interim for 20 years and held duties ranging from
E
administrative analyst to region manager. He currently has responsibilities for all Inland manufacturing facilities, sales organization for the composite panel business and manages state and federal forest policy for the company. He has been appointed to the Oregon State Board of Forestry, the Western Resources Legal Center and the EOU Board of Trustees and also served as president of the EOU Foundation. Martin Tadlock has served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Bemidji State University in Bemidji, Minn., since 2012 and as chief academic officer at Northwest Technical College since 2014. At Bemidji State, Tadlock has increased the number of local, regional and international partnerships, collaborated on an English Language Center, developed a center in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul and worked on fundraising campaigns at BSU. Prior to Bemidji State, he served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Okla., from 2009-2012. The 18-member presidential search committee is comprised of representatives from EOU’s governing board, faculty, students, staff, alumni as well as members of the community and region. Former State Senator David Nelson of Pendleton, who sits on the Oregon State Board of Higher Education and chairs the EOU Board of Trustees, also serves as chair of the search. Former EOU President Dixie Lund serves as the vice-chair of the search committee. For additional information including candidate bios, vitae and visit schedules, go to www.eou.edu/presidential-search/candidates.
Pendleton, OR To Host Blue Mountain Safety Conference Employers and workers are invited
egies that bring about real change. His to attend the annual Blue Mountain Occu- leadership skills have produced worldclass cultures with safety as a value, not a pational Safety and Health Conference in Pendleton. The event is scheduled for June priority. “As a manufacturing leader himself, 2, 2015, at the Pendleton Convention Cen- Keith knows how to change the game of ter and will highlight a variety of safety ‘safety first’ to safely producing a qualand health topics. ity product efficiently and injury free,” Oregon’s Occupational Safety and said Tony Campbell, director of safety Health Division (Oregon OSHA), a divifor ConAgra Foods. “Help your front line sion of the Department of Consumer and leaders begin to guide all employees toBusiness Services, encourages employees ward working safely for themselves and employers to attend this event to help instead of for you.” improve safety and health performance. Other conference topics include: Strengthening the workplace safety culture Safety committee effectiveness contributes to reduced injuries and acciElectrical hazards dents, and decreased workers’ compensaSafety leadership tion costs. Accident investigation Keynote speaker Keith Bardney, The event will also include senior director of safety at ConAgra Foods, exhibits showcasing the latest in safety has spent most of his career in various and health products and services. businesses sharing coaching techniques Conference registration is $65, with front-line supervisors and other strat-
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which includes lunch and session handouts. For more information about the conference or to register, go to www.regonline.com/blue_mountain15 or call Oregon OSHA’s Conference Section at 503-3783272 or 888-292-5247 (toll-free). The conference is a joint effort of the Oregon SHARP Alliance (Safety and Health Recognition Program), Oregon OSHA, and a coalition of employers and employees from northeast Oregon.
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OUTDOORS
Northeast Oregon Business News
Wildhorse Golf Superintendent Wilbur-Ellis to Named to 2015 Plant Health Academy Improve Satellite Pendleton, OR – Environmental Science, a division of Bayer CropScience Imagery of LP, announced the 2015 Plant Heath Academy class at the 2015 Golf Industry Data tool Show in San Antonio, TX last month. Among the new class is Sean Hoolehan, Golf Superintendent at the Wildhorse Resort and Casino Golf Course. Hoolehan has been the Superintendent at Wildhorse Resort & Casino for the past 18 years. He has severed on a number of golf industry boards, including being the President of the GCSAA in 2006. Hoolehan is grateful to add this to his long list of accomplishments. “I am excited about being part of the Bayer Plant Health Academy. I look forward to sharing this knowledge and putting it to practice at Wildhorse Resort and Casino.” The third annual academy is part of the Healthy Turf, Healthy Tomorrow program, an initiative Bayer developed in collaboration with Golf Course Superintendents Association of America’s (GCSAA) Environmental Institute for Golf to advance plant health research and education for superintendents. “We are blown away by the high caliber of candidates we received this year,” said David Wells, golf business manager for the turf and ornamentals business at Bayer. “It says a lot about our industry that we have so many bright, ambitious, leaders, and we are proud of their commitment to continuing education and their passion to advance their knowledge of plant health and turf management.” “This is a “Top Shelf” training, where I will get a chance to learn some of the latest methods in Turfgrass /Golf Course management,” said Hoolehan. “Learning is a life time proposition with the rapidly changing technology, regulation, and growing environment I work with on the golf course. It’s a real honor to be selected to participate with a very distinguished group of Golf Course Superintendents from across the country.” While Hoolehan, the only member of the 2015 class selected from the Pacific Northwest, the talent runs deep throughout the Country. Other class-
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Sean Hoolehan and his dog Rory
mates include: Ryan Bourne of Andover, KS, Rodney Crow of Deer Park, TX, Jamey Davis of Birmingham, AL, Anthony Gustaitis, of Lafayette Hill, PA, Brian Haines of Boynton, FL, Nicholas Janovich of Wheeling, W. VA, Tray Maltby of Davenport, FL, Jay Neunsinger of Berkeley, CA, Brent Racer of Axtell NE, Alex Stuedemann of East Moline, IL and Jeff White of Mission Hills, KS. Hoolehan isn’t the only member of the Wildhorse Golf Staff that was honored last month. The GCSAA and Lebanon Turf, named Rory, Hoolehan’s 6 year old Yellow Lab with Eastern Oregon bird dog breeding, Dog of the Year. Rory spends his days at Wildhorse Resort & Casino Golf Course chasing geese and hanging with his buddy Chip a 9 year old Golden Lab. Both dogs get special attention from Roger Hickman, Wildhorse Irrigation Tech. Roger (an Army Veteran) took care of Army Dogs in Vietnam as a Vet Tech. Rory and Chip team up to keep the geese on the move and the crew in good spirits. Rory and Hoolehan donated the $500 prize to “Train a Dog, Save a Warrior” TADSAW (http://www.tadsaw.org/) which was the beneficiary of the contest. TADSAW trains service dogs for veterans. Rory’s donation will be used to train a dog for a Veteran in Oregon.
ilbur-Ellis Company has reached an agreement with Planet Labs to bring satellite imagery to the AgVerdict® software platform, Wilbur-Ellis’ industry leading technology in agricultural data usage. This enhancement will significantly improve the delivery of satellite imagery to a grower, making the data available in a matter of minutes rather than days. “We’re excited to work with Planet Labs on this endeavor as the company changes the speed in which agriculture utilizes imagery,” said Michael Wilbur, vice president of Data Services and Field Technology, Wilbur-Ellis. “Timely and frequent imagery will give our growers the advantage to act immediately in order to prevent problems and will help them make more efficient decisions to their crop production.” This new feature will benefit Wilbur-Ellis customers by providing imagery using “ultra-compact” satellites that will soon scan the planet every twenty-four hours. From their headquarters in San Francisco, Planet Labs designs, builds and operates a network of satellites they call “Doves.” In January 2014, Planet Labs delivered Flock 1, the world’s largest constellation of Earth-imaging satellites, made up of 28 Doves. To date, Planet Labs has launched 71 Doves. Josh Alban, vice president of Sales, Planet Labs comments, “Planet Labs brings a unique capability to agricultural markets around the world: high frequency, good resolution and the ability to serve data at micro and macro levels. We are thrilled to work with AgVerdict, a bestin-class platform that makes a strong offering to the Ag retail community.” More on AgVerdict As a leading technology in agricultural data usage, AgVerdict combines field-specific data with agronomists’ knowledge for a strategic decision-making toolkit to maximize the customer’s return on investment. AgVerdict enables users to securely store data on a cloud-based system for easy access from any field location, and is available for iOS mobile devices. Working together with a Wilbur-Ellis agronomist, growers will find that the user-friendly software is customizable based on the operation, with GPS tracking that includes mapping, input usage on a per field basis, performance monitoring, record keeping, and the convenience to securely store years of data in one place. For more information, please visit www. wilburellis.com
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BUSINESS
Northeast Oregon Business News
Hood River Distillers, Inc. Salutes United States Armed Forces with a 2015 Limited Edition Bottle A portion of the proceeds from the sale of each 2015 Limited Edition will be donated to the Wrangler® National Patriot™ program.
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ood River Distillers, Inc., the largest and oldest importer, distiller, producer and bottler of distilled spirits in the Northwest, today announces a limited edition bottle for Pendleton® Whisky that honors the integrity and patriotism of those who serve, and have served, our country with pride. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of each Pendleton Whisky limited edition bottle will be donated to the Wrangler® National Patriot™ program to make a difference in the lives of active military personnel and veterans throughout the country. “It is with this limited edition bottle of Pendleton Whisky that we raise a glass and proudly salute the honorable men and women, and their families, who have dedicated their lives to the American people by serving in the United States military,” said Tia Bledsoe, Senior Brand Manager, Hood River Distillers. “We have a high degree of admiration for our service members – past and present – and look forward to partnering with the Wrangler National Patriot program on this meaningful en-
deavor.” Founded in 2009, the Wrangler National Patriot program is designed to raise awareness and funds for wounded or fallen American military veterans and their families by uniting the rodeo and western communities in fundraising efforts. The Pendleton Whisky 2015 limited edition bottle will be available at spirits retailers throughout the country beginning May 2015 with a suggested retail price of $26.95 (750 ml). Additionally, the Pendleton Whisky limited edition bottle was designed by Owens-Illinois, Inc. (O-I), the world’s largest glass container manufacturer, with bottle art designed by French/West/ Vaughan. “Pendleton Whisky has always been a friend of the Wrangler National Patriot program, and we are excited to now announce this formal partnership,” said Jeff Chadwick, director of special events for Wrangler Western Wear. “The Pendleton Whisky 2015 limited edition bottle further enforces the combined dedication from both organizations to patriotism nationwide.” For more information about how to purchase this limited edition bottle, or Pendleton Whisky’s engagement with the Wrangler National Patriot program, please visit www.pendletonwhisky.com.
For more news from Pendleton Whisky, visit the brand on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. About Pendleton Whisky Pendleton® Whisky is imported, bottled and marketed by Hood River Distillers of Hood River, Ore., and is available nationwide. The oak barrel-aged whisky uses glacier-fed spring water from Oregon’s Mt. Hood and is known for its uncommonly smooth taste and rich, complex flavor. Pendleton Whisky is the official spirit of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), and the presenting sponsor of the All American ProRodeo Series, which includes 400-plus PRCA rodeos. About Hood River Distillers Founded in 1934 and headquartered in Hood River, Ore., Hood River Distillers is the Northwest’s largest and oldest importer, producer, bottler, and marketer of distilled spirits. Pendleton® Whisky, Pendleton®1910 Rye Whisky, Broker’s® London Dry Gin, Sinfire® Cinnamon Whisky, Yazi® Ginger Vodka, ULLR® Nordic Libation, HRD®Vodka, Lucid® Absinthe Supérieure, the complete line of Monarch® distilled spirits and the Clear Creek Distillery portfolio are just a few of the company’s brands distributed across the country. Hood River Distillers is a member of the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility and promotes responsible drinking habits. For more information, visit www.hrdspirits.com.
Love’s Travel Stop for Love’s Travel Stops. “Where a location fits in with our existing stores is one of the things we look at,” said Dorian. “We have teams of people that look for where there is a need, what type of freight traffic there is, as well as tourism.” Once complete, the Tower Road Love’s would add at least 50 jobs and as many as 75 to Morrow County. The project has not been without opposition and has faced zoning challenges as well as legal appeals from another firm worried about the ramifications of having a national chain to compete with. “This has been in the process for a very long
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time; 7 years,” said Morrow County Commissioner Leann Rea. “Our suspicion is that it will be appealed again. This is a very large project to go on the tax rolls. I think competition is a good thing, it is what made this country great.” Love’s was founded in 1964 when Tom Love opened his first store in Watonga, Oklahoma. They now have 340 locations in 40 states, with three in Oregon including Roseburg, Troutdale and Ontario. Tom is still active in the business. Love’s Travel Stops have snacks, gifts and electronics. The Tower Road Love’s will include a Carl’s Jr. restaurant and a tire shop for commercial trucks.
About Wrangler® National Patriot™ Founded in 2009, the Wrangler National Patriot program is a year-round campaign developed to help raise awareness and funds to support American military veterans and their families and to serve as inspiration for all Americans to rally around each other in patriotism. A portion of all Wrangler National Patriot apparel proceeds also benefit this cause. For more information, visit www.wranglernationalpatriot.com. About O-I Owens-Illinois, Inc. (NYSE: OI) is the world’s largest glass container manufacturer and preferred partner for many of the world’s leading food and beverage brands. The Company had revenues of $6.8 billion in 2014 and employs approximately 21,100 people at 75 plants in 21 countries. With global headquarters in Perrysburg, Ohio, USA, O-I delivers safe, sustainable, pure, iconic brand-building glass packaging to a growing global marketplace. For more information, visit o-i.com
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Love’s Travel Stop in Lenoir, Tennessee
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Northeast Oregon Business News
OUT AND ABOUT
EUGENE AWARDED 2021 IAAF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS During the afternoon session of the second day of its meeting in Beijing, IAAF Council awarded Eugene, USA, the 2021 IAAF World Championships.
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he proposal to award the IAAF’s premier competition to Eugene, bypassing the usual bidding process, was taken in response to what was seen as a unique strategic opportunity to host the IAAF World Championships for the first time in the USA. The decision followed a presentation to the IAAF in recent months by Eugene, USA. The candidature of the city from the State of Oregon and USATF, who mounted a failed bid last November for the 2019 edition of the championships, uniquely combined the commitment of the funding by the governor of Oregon with the support of the United States Olympic Committee and the commitment of NBC to produce and broadcast in cooperation with Universal Sports the championships live across America. Council’s decision was taken in order
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to grant the sport’s access to one of the most historically successful countries in athletics as well as the most powerful economy in the world. There have been precedents in the past, most recently in the awarding of the 2007 IAAF World Championships to Osaka, Japan, which was also done without a bidding process. “In granting Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon (Getty Images) the championships to opportunity presented to us to access a key Eugene the IAAF Council have made a clear market and have taken a decision in the interchoice on a strategic decision that enables us est of the global development of our sport,” to take advantage of a unique opportunity that concluded President Diack. may never arise again, whereby public author- Vin Lananna, who led Eugene’s bid ities, the private sector, the national Olympic for the championships, commented: “I thank Committee, NBC and a particularly enthusiPresident Diack, the Council and USATF astic public are joining forces,” commented President Stephanie Hightower and CEO Max President Diack. Siegel in supporting the bid. We promise to “Although this decision departs from deliver an outstanding championships for the the usual procedure, I am delighted that my sport of track and field in America and around Council colleagues understood the enormous the world.”
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Northeast Oregon Business News
OREGON BUSINESS
Travel Oregon Brings Back Popular ‘7 Wonders of Oregon’ Campaign
The Oregon Tourism
Commission, dba Travel Oregon, is re-launching the state’s most successful marketing campaign to date: “The 7 Wonders of Oregon.” Introduced last spring, the campaign contributed to nearly 10 percent growth in statewide lodging revenue in 2014 over 2013, according to STR, Inc. What’s more, Travel Oregon’s fan base grew by more than 120,000 and TravelOregon.com experienced a record number of unique visitors during the campaign, giving a new audience a view of all Oregon has to offer in an ongoing and engaging manner. Starting this week, the 7 Wonders campaign will feature seven iconic natural wonders of Oregon as the focus of destination travel: the Oregon Coast, Mt. Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, Crater Lake, the Painted Hills, the Wallowas and Smith Rock. The most comprehensive marketing campaign Travel Oregon has ever produced, the 7 Wonders encourages Oregonians and visitors to experience all seven attractions in their lifetimes. “When we launched the 7 Wonders campaign last year, our primary objective was to positively impact the state’s economy and job numbers, something we always strive to do in our work at Travel Oregon,” said Todd Davidson, Travel Oregon CEO. “In 2013, the tourism industry generated $9.6 billion for Oregon’s economy and directly supported nearly 94,000 jobs. Due to the resounding success of the campaign, we believe we’ll see even greater economic impact for 2014 and in the coming years.” Following its previous format, the campaign will launch with a 60-second anthem featuring all 7 Wonders of Oregon. The spot will air in cinemas and on television in the key markets of Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, Boise, Vancouver B.C. and the United Kingdom – a new market for 2015. Additional 30-second
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spots will showcase the unique experiences to explore around each individual wonder. The overall objectives of the 7 Wonders campaign are to inspire people to consider Oregon as a prime travel destination and to encourage exploration throughout the entire state. Visitors are invited to share their photos on social media using the hashtag #traveloregon. The best of these images will be showcased on Travel Oregon content channels (TravelOregon.com, Facebook and Instagram) to inspire others long after the paid media portion of the campaign concludes. In 2014, people tagged more than 86,000 photos with the #traveloregon hashtag. Travel Oregon’s success with the 7 Wonders campaign has led to economic impact in communities and regions throughout the state. Consumer requests for Visitor Guides and information for every tourism region of the state was up 28-49 percent over 2013, indicating that more potential travelers are acting on their intentions to choose Oregon as their vacation destination in 2014. According to Shelley Hall, the superintendent of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, the monument saw a marked increase in visits. “The numbers for our Painted Hills unit went up 50 percent from 2013 (to 67,457 visits through November 2014), and that’s even with Highway 26 closed for a week in July because of fires,” she said. At Smith Rock, similar upticks in visitation have been seen. According to the manager of Smith Rock State Park, Scott Brown, the park has averaged a five percent increase in visitation each of the previous five years, but experienced a 14 percent jump in 2014. Likewise, increases were recorded at Crater Lake National Park. According to Crater Lake park superintendent Craig Ackerman, the park had more than 60,000 additional visitors last
Smith Rock, one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon
Photo by Lori Kimbel
year with nearly 585,000 people visiting in 2014, up from 523,027 in 2013. “This is some of the strongest work for Travel Oregon in our 25-year history of working together,” said Dan Wieden, chairman of Wieden+Kennedy. “What I really like about the creative, aside from how beautiful Oregon looks, is it gives people a checklist of things to see and do.” Travel Oregon will incorporate new and exciting elements into this year’s 7 Wonders campaign around golf and cycling in April and May, respectively. How effective are Travel Oregon campaigns? In 2013, prior to the 7 Wonders campaign, Travel Oregon commissioned Longwoods International to conduct an Advertising Accountability study. The Longwoods study showed that for every $1 Travel Oregon invested in advertising in the evaluated markets, $237 was generated in visitor spending and $11 in tax revenue to the benefit of Oregon residents. While
the results do not include the 7 Wonders campaign, they do show how effective Travel Oregon’s campaigns have become. Travel Oregon is confident that the results from the 7 Wonders campaign will be more impressive, as this campaign has resonated with visitors and Oregonians alike. Along with Wieden+Kennedy, Travel Oregon worked with a team of agencies to bring this campaign to life, including LANE, MEDIAmerica, Sparkloft and Substance. The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, works to enhance visitors’ experience by providing information, resources and trip planning tools that inspire travel and consistently convey the exceptional quality of Oregon. The commission improves Oregonians’ quality of life by strengthening economic impacts of the state’s $9.6 billion tourism industry that employs nearly 94,000 Oregonians. www. TravelOregon.com
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OUTDOORS
Northeast Oregon Business News
Friends of the Columbia Gorge Launches the 35 & Gorgeous Hike Challenge
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his year’s challenge commemorates Friends’ 35 years of work protecting a unique American natural treasure Friends of the Columbia Gorge is launching the 35 & Gorgeous hike challenge this month. This year’s challenge offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts and day-hikers to families and community groups! The challenge invites participants to hike 15 trails and complete 20 other activities (from visiting waterfalls to identifying wildflowers) as a way of commemorating the 35 years that Friends of the Columbia Gorge has spent working to protect this unique American natural treasure. Challenge your friends and family to join you or compete to see who can be the first to finish all 35 items on the list! Long before Nancy Russell founded Friends in 1980, before the 1986 Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Act established federal protection for the region, Gorge lovers have strived to protect its natural, cultural, recreational, and scenic resources for future generations. “This year’s challenge is especially exciting because we hope that folks of all ages and abilities will join us to celebrate both the Columbia River Gorge and Friends’ 35th anniversary,” said Friends Executive Director Kevin Gorman. “Whether you already love the Gorge or are just finding out about it, 35 & Gorgeous not only gets you out onto trails and into Gorge communities; we’ll also share the inspiring stories behind the places you’ll visit.” In addition to the 15 hikes with conservation stories, which you can read at gorgefriends.org/35andgorgeous before hitting the trails, the challenge provides 20 additional ways to have a complete and enjoyable Gorge experience. You’ll foray into the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness; participate in a land stewardship work party; visit Gorge communities and
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Columbia River Gorge waterfalls; and perform simple but meaningful (and fun) acts like identifying five Gorge wildflowers, enjoying a picnic at an established picnic area, and using a boot brush at a trailhead to prevent the proliferation of non-native plant species. Those who complete all 35 items before Oct. 31 and are also Friends of the Columbia Gorge members will receive a prize courtesy of the Lyle Hotel, located in the eastern Gorge community of Lyle, WA, and be entered into a grand prize drawing of a white water raft trip for six on the Wild & Scenic White Salmon River, courtesy of Wet Planet. Participants must register through Friends’ website and be Friends’ members to be eligible for prizes. Don’t miss out on this fun, rewarding Gorge experience!
Photo by Lori Kimbel
Friends of the Columbia Gorge works to ensure the beautiful and wild Columbia Gorge remains a place apart, an unspoiled treasure for coming generations. We’re the only conservation advocacy organization dedicated solely to protecting the Gorge. Secondly, we’re landowners. Our land trust owns over 1,000 acres, providing hiking and recreation opportunities, while managing our land for long-term protection. Thirdly, we’re educators. We lead more than 100 hikes a year, taking people to places they have never seen and learning things they never knew. Lastly, we’re connectors. We connect the landscapes to the communities of the Gorge through projects such as Gorge Towns to Trails.
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Northeast Oregon Business News
TRAVEL
Wholly Guacamole That Was Good! - The Espresso Wagon By Lori Kimbel
Great things are happening at the Espresso Wagon in Elgin. Not only do they serve great espressos, coffees and mochas, but they also have Hill’s Meat Company hot dogs and sausage dogs in the most amazing pretzel bun you’ve ever tasted. They also have great homemade baked goods on hand. The Espresso Wagon is located at 790 Division Street in Elgin.
Owner, Linda Juniper is also buying mushrooms at the Espresso Wagon and will soon have fresh huckleberries. Stop in today, you will be glad you did.
T h e E s p r e s s o Wa g o n 790 Division Street Elgin, Oregon 5 4 1 - 4 3 7 - 111 0
ENERGY COSTS TOO HIGH? TRY LOOKING AT IT IN A DIFFERENT LIGHT. Want to lower your energy costs? When you update lighting, you can see the difference instantly and recoup your investment in no time. Talk to a qualified trade ally to learn about Energy Trust of Oregon cash incentives for all kinds of energy-saving solutions.
+Get more from your energy. Visit www.energytrust.org/mybusiness or call us at 1.866.368.7878. Serving customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural and Cascade Natural Gas.
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Northeast Oregon Business News
EDUCATION & BUSINESS
Smoke-Wood Teams Up with The Elgin Works – Keeping a Family Business in the Family
or twenty five years Smoke-Wood was a fixture in the Elgin Business Community. After the owner, Al Smolkowski, passed away in May of 2013 his son Kevin had to figure out what to do with the business. “When my dad passed away, we weren’t sure how Smoke-Wood would function without his wealth of knowledge and abilities”, said Kevin. Many people might have simply continued with the existing product lines, or quietly liquidated the business. It wasn’t Kevin’s way. Instead he decided to expand. As Kevin explains, “we are moving away from our retail wood working and focusing more on commercial laser services. Smoke-Wood has always done laser engraving, but now with the new capabilities we can focus on higher volumes. In the past, an order of several dozen of a single item was a large order as much of the work was for custom trophies or awards. Now we are getting into the hundreds or thousands of pieces range. In the last couple years, we have significantly increased our capacity, adding a 120 watt laser, CNC cutters for circuit boards and larger plastic milling, plus Annie’s machinery.” Annie is Anne Ogborn, who was just starting a small laser shop and engineering firm in Sweet Home. When the two met, they quickly decided to join forces and become The
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tors to observe the hardware is a growing business. “Our products find their way into the harshest environments, typically mines and tunnels.”, explains Kevin. “While most of the monitoring and troubleshooting occurs by remote access, sometimes it’s necessary to have someone physically inspect the boards and check the indicators. By protecting the boards with a clear cover, an inspection can be done even by relatively untrained individuals.” Another growth area is consulting services. Before he passed away, Al would talk on the phone at length with anybody who called up with a laser engraving question. He even published a “Sharing Secrets of Smoke-Wood” guide to retail laser engraving of plaques and other trophy parts. Over the past year, SmokeWood has moved to a paid consulting model. In depth knowledge of laser cutting and especially how to setup the computer Elgin Works. Kevin put it this way, SmokeWood is still a family business, by teaming up equipment that drives it is a specialized field. Rather than fumble around, we can set them with Annie and forming The Elgin Works, we up and get them running quickly. Frequently just made the family bigger. Ogborn laughed this turns into a long term engagement, with at that . “I think I’ve become an honorary Smoke-Wood handling most of their computSmolkowski.” ing needs. Ogborn’s contribution added a larger As well as machinery, Ogborn also laser, a urethane casting line, and another CNC brought her engineering skills. Kevin explains, router. “I drove up here one weekend, spent a “I was attracted to the idea of having another few hours with Kevin, and by the time I left we’d reached an agreement. A few weeks later, engineer in the space. Between Annie and myself, we’ve got all the skills and connections my next trip to Elgin was when we brought a we need to do something high tech. She was truck loaded with most of my industrial madoing robotics work before, and that’s an obvichinery. It all happened really fast.”, rememous area for us to move into. Having our own bers Annie. manufacturing capability gives us tremendous With new capabilities the company is flexibility. We can dream up a product and expanding into new areas. “We’re actively looking for local part- produce much of it without leaving the buildners,” says Kevin. “We’ve been making boxes ing.” The idea of building robots in tiny for custom knives, and kits for model railroad- Elgin seemed a bit mind blowing. When I ers, and labels for fire engine control panels. Most of these things we’re doing in collabora- asked what kind of robots, Annie pulled out tion with other local industries. If you’re fabri- her smart phone and showed me a picture of a cating complex products from wood or plastic, robotic boy. “This is what I was working on, for another company, last summer. But it’s the in particular, we can probably do it cheaper sort of project we’re well positioned to handle and better than you can do it in house.” One of the new areas is custom plastic shields here.” Smoke-Wood and The Elgin Works for industrial circuit boards. With more and are co-located in Elgin, Oregon. See www. more industrial controls using specialized smoke-wood.com and www.theelginworks. electronics, protecting those boards from com for contact information. damage and tampering while allowing opera-
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Northeast Oregon Business News
AGRICULTURE
Victory Acres Farm, a full-service equestrian operation
Ota, also teaches vaulting to young riders in the arena. Vaulting is gymnastics on n open house hosted by owner Jaci horseback. The students start Weishaar of Victory Acres Farm of La Grande training out on a barrel to drew over 100 guests in March, as she gave learn all the movements and them tours of the farm’s newly constructed then move onto the horse as equestrian riding academy arena. it walks, trots or canters in Weishaar is a home-grown entreprea 20-meter circle while the neur who started giving riding lessons about kids do their gymnastics. 10 years ago. She created her business during “For lessons, we have her senior year at Imbler High School. In anywhere from 3 to 6 hors2011, she graduated from Oregon State Unies here at any given time,” versity with a bachelor’s of science in agrisaid Weishaar. “They are culture sciences and two minors in business/ all breeds, Quarter horses, entrepreneurship and animal sciences. Paints, Shetland ponies. For She is currently a certified riding a 30-minute lesson, it’s $30; instructor through the Certified Horseman45 minutes is $35; an hour is ship Association, and she works one-on-one $40 if you don’t have your with each student rider. She is also a certified own horse. If you do have equine appraiser and is trained to perform your own horse, it’s $5 less. equine and canine massage. We also give discounts to “Victory Acres Farm is a full-service veterans and members of operation,” Weishaar said. “We board, inthe active military and their Photo/Trish Yerges struct and have a lot of amenities of all kinds. families.” Boarding is $300 month, full care, including During private les- At the Victory Acres Farm open house, young rider Emma Correa of La Grande gets a feel for riding a pony from instructor and owner Jaci Weishaar holding the hay twice a day, water available all day, stalls sons, parents stand on the cleaned once a day, a secure tack locker, and sidelines or in the lounge to guides them through the same training levels 24/7 use of the facility which means indoors, watch as Weishaar teaches. other riders get in order to fill in any learning outdoors and round pen.” “They learn everything here,” said gaps that might exist. Construction on the riding arena started Weishaar. “They start with the basics at level “I have some people who have confilast September, and in its finished state it now one, learning how to groom the horse, saddle dence issues, perhaps they had an accident or measures 72 feet by 120 feet with a lounge the horse, couch them, ride them, walk/trot at are starting at an older age, so they’re just not that’s 25 feet by 42 feet. Inside is a storage level one. They do all of it themselves, so as as fearless as most kids are. We do the same area that’s 24 feet square and a stall area that is they get going, I kinda back off. I have 4, 5, thing, start with basics and build them up 144 feet by 24 feet. and 6-year-olds that can saddle and get their through level 4,” said Weishaar. The riding academy is geared for all own ponies ready.” After a student reaches level 4, ages, said Weishaar, with riders as young as 18 If someone wants to just spend time Weishaar said she starts gearing the lessons months old to seniors in their 70s. The most riding their own horse in the arena, Weishaar toward the rider’s specific goals. She teaches popular riding age group for kids is between requires that they call ahead to make an apprivate lessons and hosts “Ladies Night” and a 6 and 8 years, with about 70 percent of them pointment, so that it doesn’t conflict with her youth group of not more than 5 riders. Group being girls. The very young riders start out riding lessons. rates are $25/hour. with pony rides and progress from there with “It’s $10 if you bring in your own Victory Acres Farm is located at 62611 Weishaar as their instructor. Beyond the young horse to ride,” she said. “There’s no time limit Fruitdale Lane, La Grande and is open Sunday riders, Weishaar also has a lot of adults too. for riding your own horse. Just call ahead through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Satur In addition to traditional riding lessons, though.” days are closed. To reach Weishaar, call 541one of the boarders at Victory Acres, Tina For advanced riding students, Weishaar 786-3218 or visit www.victoryacresfarm.com
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by Trish Yerges
Lucas Oil and Protect The Harvest Join Pendleton Cattle Barons Weekendtitleas Title Sponsor sponsor of Pendleton Cattle Barons Weekend. The Weekend honors Pendleton’s ranching heritage and creates scholarships for area students taking agricultural majors in college or university courses. “Both Lucas Oil and Protect the Harvest fall in line with what Cattle Barons Weekend stands for”, says organizer Marty Campbell. “As an agriculturist, Mr. Lucas understands our mission High Selling Horse 2014: Fiesta Rascal. Consigned by Diane of promoting the future of our Lorenzen, Agent Justin Bailey industry and its heritage. Pro tect the Harvest has grown from his passion to endleton Cattle Barons has joined inform the public about agriculture, protect the forces with two of the agriculture industry’s future of the industry and respond intelligently strongest partners and proponents. Lucas to opponents of agriculture.” Oil and Protect the Harvest have become the “Protect The Harvest exists to defend
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our way of life, preserve our food freedom, and stand up for America’s farmers, hunters and animal owners.” Forrest Lucas says. Pendleton Cattle Barons Weekend is filled with activities that honor and preserve the ranching heritage of Northeast Oregon. Events include the Western Select Gelding Sale, North American Stock Saddle Bronc Championship, Ranch Rodeo, Buckeroo Barbeque Challenge, and a Western Trade Show. All proceeds from the Weekend’s events create scholarships for area students majoring in agriculture.
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HEALTH
Northeast Oregon Business News
Audiology practice grows by listening to their patients by Trish Yerges
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usinesses often prosper when they listen to the needs of their customers. This is the case with Eastern Oregon Audiology, a medical practice that has been growing steadily over the past 18 years. Owner Dr. Robin Maxon recently expanded her practice last December by adding an associate, Dr. Anne Simon, and relocating the business to a larger facility at 1807 Cove Avenue in La Grande. She has come a long way from small beginnings in Baker City. “We listened to our patients,” said Maxon, “we got more parking, improved accessibility (no stairs), and found a familiar location that is easy for our out-of-town patients to find us.” Maxon noted that since their relocation to this more visible address, the practice has seen an increase in walk-in patients, asking about service and repairs of their hearing aids. She also stated that she purchased more hearing aid equipment for the building. “You must have the equipment to properly evaluate, measure and fit hearing aids,” said Maxon. “An investment like this is important to verify the right fit.” Her investment in the cutting edge technology and her knowledge of its use gives her confidence that Eastern Oregon Audiology will remain an important center for audiology services in Northeast Oregon. “With certainty, we can say that Eastern Oregon Audiology provides the finest and most advanced testing and fitting equipment in Northeast Oregon,” said Maxon. “We’re locally owned and offer full service, full time.”
Photo/Trish Yerges Eastern Oregon Audiology staff (left) K.C. Kunkle, Alysha Crane, Dr. Robin Maxon and Dr. Anne Simon. Their new location is 1807 Cove Avenue, La Grande.
Maxon made the choice to move her solo practice from Baker City to La Grande two years ago because she wanted to be centrally located to serve the needs of patients throughout Northeast Oregon. “We draw patients from Wallowa, Grant, Baker and Union counties,” said Maxon, “and we’re seeing more patients stay here for their care and service.” Maxon financed the purchase of her new building through Banner Bank of La Grande. She also decided to hire local contractors to transform the former veterinarian clinic into one suitable for an audiology practice. The work was completed within a month, and the practice was opened on March 9. The building has 3 consulting rooms, a lab area where hearing aids are cleaned and repaired, a vaulted sound booth room for testing in complete silence, two treatment rooms for fitting and adjusting the hearing aids, storage rooms, 2 bathrooms, a front office and lounge area complete with gourmet coffee. “When doing this remodel, it was awesome to meet our community contractors and
have them come in and transform this building,” said Maxon. “We relied on our community to do this, and they did it conscientiously and with respect for the other contractors.” Maxon believes that successful businesses network economically with other local businesses, so she hired local contractors for the remodeling work. Among the La Grande contractors were Carpet One, Chandler Manufacturing, S&J Electric, Walter Plumbing, La Grande Drywall, Mitre’s Touch Gallery, KT Landscaping, Summit Construction, 3-D Janitorial; Angie Miller (cleaning) and Alpine Alarm. The signage was done by Oregon Sign Company in Baker City. Successful businesses teach their customers about their products, and this is just as important in the field of audiology. “We work with the patient as a team, and approach each one with an individualized treatment plan based on their physical hearing loss and their lifestyle,” said Maxon. “Now with Dr. Simon and myself, we can fit a patient with hearing aids the same day. Of course, Medicare patients will need a referral from their primary care physician. We can do most repairs here too, but if not, then they can be sent away and done in 7 to 10 days.” Eastern Oregon Audiology’s staff includes Dr. Robin Maxon, Dr. Anne Simon, assistant K.C. Kunkle and front desk staff Alysha Crane. They are open Monday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The office is closed during lunch daily from noon to 1 p.m. For more information, call 541-605-0550.
Guardian Angels to Break Ground in Hermiston: In June of 2013, Guardian Angel Homes brought this philosophy to Hermiston when they purchased Rose Arbor Assisted Living from a wonderful family who shared their passion and standards. Now, 2 years later, they are expanding their campus of care by adding their award winning memory care homes to meet the needs of those requiring Alzheimer’s or Dementia care. “We are excited to be part of this growing community, to share our expertise in caring for our elderly, and to see additional jobs created for those living in the Hermiston area,” said Jennifer Baus, the Regional Coordinator for Guardian Angel Homes who also lives in Hermiston. The expansion will include two uniquely themed homes: the Tuscan and Ranch house. Each home features different design elements inspired by the sur-
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rounding areas, yet both share the same award winning floor plan inside. Both homes have 16 suites and center around a home-like atmosphere where residents can feel comfortable while they enjoy compassionate care and support.
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For more information about Guardian Angel Homes or to learn more about reservations or educational opportunities, call Jennifer Baus at 208.619.0483. We also invite you to visit them online at www.GuardianAngelHomes.com.
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OREGON
Northeast Oregon Business News
Travel Oregon CEO Todd Davidson Appointed as U.S. Travel National Chair he U.S. Travel Association on Thursday announced the appointment of Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon, as its new national chair. Davidson, who previously served as the association’s first vice chair, succeeds Interstate Hotels & Resorts CEO Jim Abrahamson. “We are thrilled to welcome Todd as our new national chair,” said U.S. Travel Association president and CEO Roger Dow. “With the travel industry driving U.S. economic growth, jobs and exports, Todd is well-positioned to further expand the reach and influence of America’s travel sector. Todd’s experience and expertise will greatly benefit the travel community.” As national chair of U.S. Travel, Davidson will guide the board and association’s efforts to: Aggressively highlight the role of the U.S. travel industry in driving increased economic growth and opportunity. Firmly establish leisure travel as essential to American life. “Given travel’s outsize contributions to U.S. economic strength and the growing evidence of the benefits of leisure travel, we have more opportunities than ever to tell its powerful story in Washington and beyond,” said Davidson. “My goal is to ensure that the travel sector has a
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strong voice and a seat at the table when critical decisions are made. I am honored to serve in this leadership capacity during this time of growth and success for the industry.” As CEO of the Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, Davidson has overseen the growth of his state’s $9.6 billion industry that employs more than 94,000 Oregonians. He helped lead the effort to establish dedicated, stable funding for Travel Oregon, which facilitated the growth of Oregon’s travel industry. During his tenure, Travel Oregon has garnered 13 Mercury Awards, including the top award for Best Website and Best Overall State Marketing Program in 2013. Davidson outlines his course of action for his two-year term in his introduction as chair on U.S. Travel’s Friday Check-In. His appointment will give Oregon exceptional insight into national and international trends in the tourism industry.
Pure Vision Selects Oregon for Biorefining Technology Scale Up P
ureVision Technology, Inc., a Colorado-based biorefinery developer, announced today that it will scale up its biorefining technology at an industrial site in Boardman, Oregon owned by ZeaChem, Inc. The public announcement was made today during a presentation by PureVision CEO Ed Lehrburger at the Oregon Hemp Conference at the Portland Expo Center. PureVision’s patented biorefining technology takes in raw biomass—like corn stalks, wheat straw and industrial hemp— and produces sugars, pulp, lignin and other value-added materials for making thousands of bio-products. PureVision’s process has advanced from proof of concept, to bench scale, to an operating one-half-tonper-day continuous pilot plant at the company’s Fort Lupton, Colorado headquarters. “After an 18-month search for a site to develop our commercial demonstration-scale biorefinery, PureVision is excited
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to team up with ZeaChem, Inc. and co-locate our advanced biorefining technology at their existing $70 million biorefinery in Boardman, Oregon”, stated Lehrburger. “The significant infrastructure in place at the ZeaChem facility will reduce the costs and timing to develop our 25-ton-per-day biorefining project. The Boardman, Oregon location will accelerate bringing our technology to market”, he said. PureVision and ZeaChem are working to finalize arrangements and expect to break ground later this year on the PureVision building at the Boardman biorefining site. “Working with ZeaChem at their plant in Oregon provides a pathway to demonstrate the PureVision technology and establish commercial operations globally”, said Lehrburger. “We expect to begin operations in Oregon during 2016 using different feedstocks including hybrid poplar and industrial hemp”, he said.
Oregon Leaders Begin Recordsetting Recruitment Trip in Japan B
usiness Oregon, the state’s economic development agency, and a delegation of 27 Oregonians begin a five-day business recruitment trip in Japan today. The trip’s goal is to recruit Japanese companies to open U.S. operations in Oregon, growing the state’s economy and creating jobs. The trip includes a seminar where state leaders pitch Oregon to Japanese executives and key recruitment meetings with large Japanese corporations. Japan, the world’s third largest economy, is one of Oregon’s most critical international trading partners. Oregon is home to 133 Japanese companies, more than any other foreign nation. Oregon companies export $1.6 billion in goods to Japan, ranking the country No. 4 among the state’s trading partners. With Japan’s declining population and rising business costs, Oregon leaders see a prime opportunity to attract foreign direct investment from Japanese companies looking to grow and diversify in North America. This is the largest trip since Business Oregon started the annual visits in 2010. The seminar has 156 Japanese executives registered and 27 Oregon delegates will be on the trip. Both numbers are record highs. This year’s trip include representatives from the Portland region, Eastern Oregon, the Southern Oregon Coast and one Native American tribe. For more on the trip this week, follow Oregon’s delegates on Twitter at #ORJapan. The full list of agencies and companies represented on the trip: Business Oregon Metro Greater Portland Inc. City of Beaverton City of Hillsboro Port of Portland Lane Powell Portland General Electric Mackenzie Oregon Department of Agriculture PDX Coordinator, LLC Portland Development Commission Business Growth Services South Coast Development Council Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Port of Morrow Summit Properties Clackamas County
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Northeast Oregon Business News
DEVELOPMENT
Eastern Oregon Telecom Selects Huawei to Launch a Gigabit Broadband Network in Rural Oregon Gigabit Services to Bring Ultra-broadband to the City of Hermiston and Spur Economic Development in the Business Corridor
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uawei, a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider, today announced that Eastern Oregon Telecom (EOT), a local area leader in voice, broadband Internet and fiber transport solutions, has selected Huawei to bring a gigabit broadband network to rural homes and businesses in Hermiston, Ore. Huawei will provide its Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) solutions throughout EOT’s network footprint in Eastern
Oregon, bringing ultra-broadband to over 8,000 homes and businesses in Hermiston and the surrounding area. The fiber broadband rollout by EOT and Huawei will also provide new services, including Voice over IP (VoIP), high-speed broadband and Internet Protocol television (IPTV) to the community. According to Infonetics Research, Huawei currently ranks number one in GPON deployments globally. “Huawei is a great partner for rural carriers who are looking to develop robust broadband networks quickly but in a scalable and cost-efficient way,” said Joseph Franell, CEO of Eastern Oregon Telecom. “Huawei’s fast and scalable broadband solutions will allow for faster deployment and simpler maintenance, and we look forward to working with them to roll out our ultra-broadband network inHermis-
ton.” EOT expects to complete initial deployment of its gigabit network in the second half of 2015, with underground fiber deployment occurring in 2016. The new network deployment will include the commercial corridor in the cities of Umatilla, Irrigon and Boardman, as well as Hermiston. “We are excited to partner with Eastern Oregon Telecom to bring innovative and competitive gigabit broadband to the Hermistoncommunity,” said Bill Gerski, Vice President of Sales for Huawei USA. “Rural communities in America, which are typically underserved by broadband, are beginning to recognize the economic and social benefits of having fast and reliable connectivity. Huawei is committed to working with rural carriers and communities across the U.S. to help
them get connected.” Once deployed, the fiber optic network will boast up to one gigabit-per-second speed, which is an average 100 times faster than broadband. It is estimated to take about three seconds to download a high-definition television (HDTV) show and 36 seconds for a high-definition (HD) movie. “Super-fast, reliable and affordable broadband connectivity is becoming increasingly important in helping our community and businesses stay competitive,” said Hermiston Mayor Dr. David Drotzmann. “We are pleased that Eastern Oregon Telecom and Huawei have partnered to bring this service to the community, and believe better broadband will help us create more economic opportunities and educational enhancements in the City of Hermiston.”
Governor Brown Announces Investment in Pendleton Unmanned Aerial Systems Testing
power them. “We’ve made a significant investment as Business Oregon, the state’s economic a community in unmanned aerial systems, and development agency will provide $1.6 million in we believe this industry is about to take off,” loans and grants to support the City of Pendlesaid Pendleton Mayor Phillip Houk. “We think ton’s ongoing work to build out its test range. there are going to be some real opportunities “Unmanned aerial systems are the future for Pendleton and Eastern Oregon that will pay of the aviation industry,” said Sean Robbins, dividends for the state.” Business Oregon’s overnor Kate Brown, Business Oregon, director. “The City of Pendleton and Blue and the City of Pendleton today announced a $545,000 state investment to help make Eastern Mountain Community College stepped up Oregon a premiere test range for commercial to invest in the UAS unmanned aerial systems (UAS). “This new funding represents more than industry and it’s the state’s turn to help an investment in a few concrete pads and buildaccelerate that growth. ings,” said Governor Brown. “It demonstrates • Western Select Invitational Business Oregon has that when presented with a unique chance to HORSE SALE supported the indusseize an innovative market, State government is • North American Stock SADDLE try since 2009 and is BRONC Championship & poised to step forward to support the commuproud to be a part of RANCH RODEO Invitational nity leaders who are working hard to develop a this project.” • Buckaroo BARBEQUE CHALLENGE new industry.” The Phase II • Working STOCK DOG SALE Congress requires that research and • BIT, SPUR & ENGRAVING Show work includes four to development for commercial unmanned aerial • SADDLEMAKER & TOOLED FENDER Contest six hangars, storage, vehicles (UAV) happen on test ranges approved • Tradin’ Post TRADE SHOW and communications by the Federal Aviation Administration. Oreequipment. The total gon is one of just 13 states to receive that FAA project cost will be approval and the only one on the West Coast. $1.8 million. The City Pendleton is one of three Oregon test ranges. of Pendleton fund Oregon is investing in these test ranges to attract entrepreneurs and companies that will ed Phase I and will contribute another develop UAVs and the software and parts that $146,000 to Phase II.
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WINE
Northeast Oregon Business News
Oregon Wines Fly Free Extended through 2017 D
ue to its overwhelming success, the Oregon Wines Fly Free program has been extended through 2017. The program encourages visitors traveling from Oregon on Alaska Airlines to bring a taste of Oregon home by checking a case of Oregon wine for free. Through collaboration between the Oregon Wine Board, Travel Oregon and Alaska Airlines, Oregon was the first state to launch a statewide wines fly free program in September 2013. Today, more than 300 Oregon wineries participate. The Oregon Wines Fly Free program allows Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan members to check one case of wine at no cost on their return flight departing from one of four Oregon airports, as well as Walla Walla, Washington. As a bonus, inbound visitors can receive complimentary tastings at any participating winery by showing their Alaska Airlines boarding passes within a week of arrival. Membership in Alaska Airlines’ award-winning Mileage Plan is free and customers can join at www.alaskaair.com. “The Oregon Wines Fly Free program with Alaska Airlines has been a wonderful endeavor that has alleviated some of the challenges consumers face when transporting wine acquired while visiting Oregon,” said Ellen Brittan, chairwoman of the Oregon Wine Board. “Almost 5,000 cases of Oregon wines have been checked for free since the program started and we expect this number to grow tremendously with the program’s extension.” “Oregon’s distinct appellations have earned a place among the country’s premier wine regions, and we are fortunate to work with some fantastic partners in the Oregon Wine Board and Alaska Airlines to make our growers and producers more accessible,” said Todd Davidson, CEO, Travel Oregon. “With the extension of the Oregon Wines Fly Free Program, travelers have the opportunity to
build collections of Oregon wines to share and enjoy, reliving their Oregon vacation experience from the comfort of their homes.” “Our customers love to explore new things, from the places we serve to the foods they eat and the wines they sip,” said Sangita Woerner, Alaska Airlines’ vice president of marketing. “There’s something so exciting about the discovery of a great new wine, and we’re thrilled to make those discoveries even easier for our customers.” The promotion applies to departures from four Oregon airports – Medford, Redmond/Bend, Eugene/Springfield and Portland – as well as from Walla Walla, Washington. Alaska Airlines offers nonstop service to Oregon’s most popular wine regions, including the Willamette Valley via Portland and Eugene, Southern Oregon via Medford, Central Oregon wineries via Redmond and Eastern Oregon wineries via Walla Walla. This year, Alaska Airlines is an official partner of Feast Portland, the flagship food and drink festival in the Pacific Northwest, held Sept. 17-20. For more information and a list of participating wineries, visit www.oregonwinesflyfree.org. About the Oregon Wine Board The Oregon Wine Board is a semi-independent Oregon state agency managing marketing, research and education initiatives that support and advance the Oregon wine and wine grape industry. The Board works on behalf of all Oregon wineries and independent growers throughout the state’s diverse winegrowing regions. The Oregon wine grape and wine industry contributes more than $3.35 billion in economic activity to the state economy each year, including more than 17,000 wine-related jobs and $527 million in wages. www.oregonwine.org About Travel Oregon The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba
Travel Oregon, works to enhance visitors’ experience by providing information, resources and trip planning tools that inspire travel and consistently convey the exceptional quality of Oregon. The commission improves Oregonians’ quality of life by strengthening economic impacts of the state’s $9.6 billion tourism industry that employs nearly 94,000 Oregonians. www.TravelOregon.com About Alaska Airlines Alaska Airlines, a subsidiary of Alaska Air Group (NYSE: ALK), together with its partner regional airlines, offers more nonstop flights (serving 40 different destinations), more daily flights (123 a day) and more California service (40 flights daily to 13 California destinations) from Portland International Airport than any other carrier. For reservations, visit www.alaskaair.com. For more news and information, visit the Alaska Airlines Newsroom at www.alaskaair.com/newsroom.
How Will You Celebrate Oregon Wine Month? Special tastings, wine dinners, open houses and a Wine Country Sweepstakes highlight a month-long festival of Oregon’s wine diversity
from. Dozens of promotions, tastings and other activities are planned by wineries, wine retailers and restaurants throughout the state. For the first time, wine lovers can even enter to win a dream hat happens when 600 weekend to one of three Oregon wineries throw a month-long Wine Country destinations: party in May? You have Oregon Columbia Gorge (dramatic), WillaWine Month! mette Valley (bucolic) or Southern It’s not too early to start Oregon (seductive). The sweepplanning your 2015 Oregon Wine Month activities. Spring is in the air, stakes includes wine tastings, dinner for two and a two-night hotel stay grapevines are waking from their in any of the three designated winter dormancy and throughout the state Oregon’s wine world beck- regions. “Oregon is a special place ons with a wide variety of enticing and Oregon wines have a special events. How will you celebrate the reputation for excellence,” said diversity of Oregon wine? Ellen Brittan, chairwoman of the There is a lot to choose Oregon Wine Board, which coordi-
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nates the program. “And while there’s a lot to love about Oregon wine at any time of the year, celebrating Oregon Wine Month is a great way to focus attention on the diverse and high quality wines for which Oregon is now globally recognized.” For instance, many Oregon restaurants will be offering Oregon wine specials throughout May. Travelers to Oregon’s many wine regions will also experience a variety of special tasting opportunities and promotions, such as winery and vineyard tours, themed tasting events and special discounts. In addition, many wine retailers will be offering promotions on Oregon wine and sampling opportunities.
With so many opportunities to discover Oregon wines, it can be difficult to decide what to do and where to go. To help you plan your Oregon Wine Month experience, the Oregon Wine Board has prepared a frequently-updated online guide to events and activities happening around the state that feature Oregon-grown and Oregon-crafted wines. Whether at a winery tasting room, retail wine shop, restaurant, hotel or B & B, you’ll find an Oregon Wine Month celebratory activity sure to whet your palate. Visit oregonwinemonth. org to discover what’s happening – then go out and enjoy Oregon wine.
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THE ARTS
Northeast Oregon Business News
It’s Official! $200,000 Grant Awarded to the Gem Theater! A
Gem Theater in Athena Oregon Photo by Lori Kimbel
thena’s Gem, Inc. is pleased to announce a $200,000 grant award from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust for renovation of the Gem Theatre/Star Saloon in Athena. This award will serve as a match to release the funds from another $200,000.00 grant awarded in November 2013 by the Ford Family Foundation. The project has now progressed far enough fiscally to allow construction to begin while at the same time we will continue the grant and fund raising campaign for the remainder needed to finish the project. The groundbreaking will occur this coming summer. The M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust was created in 1975 by the will of the late Melvin J. (Jack) Murdock, a co-founder of Tektronix, Inc. of Bea-
verton Oregon and a resident of Vancouver, Washington. The Trust’s current assets are valued at about $800 million and over the life of the Trust more than $658 million has been distributed through 4,818 grants. The Trust’s mission is to enrich the quality of life in the Pacific Northwest by providing grants to organizations that seek to strengthen the region’s educational, cultural, and spiritual base in creative and sustainable ways. For more information, visit them at www.Murdock-Trust.org.
Join us in La Grande, Oregon for the sixth annual independent film and music festival.
SAVE the DATE TICKETS & INFO
MAY 7-9 • 2015
EOFF is dedicated to bringing the best of new independent film and music to eastern Oregon and promoting a rich cinematic, musical, and artistic experience for our community and the region.
Brandon Harris, FILMMAKER MAGAZINE
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Northeast Oregon Business News
ONLY AT THE ELGIN STAMPEDE JULY 8 - 11
Call the Elgin Stampede Royalty for tickets to the 2015 Elgin Stampede
Kayla Johnson 541-805-5909 Rachel Sauer 541-786-2424
Visit
www.elginstampede.com for ticket information
Elgin, Oregon
NEW RODEO SCHEDULE THIS YEAR! BUT STILL THE SAME GREAT WEEKEND
WEDNESDAY NIGHT July 8th at 6 p.m. FAMILY NIGHT
THURSDAY NIGHT July 9th at 7 p.m. MARK NICHOLS MEMORIAL BULL RIDING
FRIDAY NIGHT July 10th & 11th at 7 p.m. PRCA RODEO ACTION TOUGH ENOUGH NIGHT DANCE AFTER RODEO
SATURDAY NIGHT July 11th at 6:45 STAMPEDE CHALLENGE PRCA RODEO ACTION DANCE AFTER RODEO
“LIKE’ us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/elginstampede www.neobn.com
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