Northeast Oregon Business News by Lori Roach

Ranch and Home Building a Family Legacy - PAGE 3

Pedal Powered Talk Show Visits NE Oregon - PAGE 15

Northwest Furniture and Mattress Opens in La Grande - PAGE 14

NORTHEAST OREGON BUSINESS NEWS Volume 1 - Issue 1 free

Serving Baker, Morrow, Umatilla, Union and Baker Counties

Elgin Soon to Be Home of Calico Weapons World Headquarters

free

JULY/AUGUST 2014

WC Construction - 33 Years and Counting

Chris Holmgren, owner of Calico Light Weapons Systems, is ready to move his weapons manufacturing facility to Elgin By Lori Kimbel

ith just a few more loose ends to tie up, Holmgren is hoping to be moving into his new place early this summer and manufacturing weapons as soon as this Fall, at the Elgin Industrial Park. Calico is currently located in Cornelius, Oregon, Holmgren is excited to be moving all production to the east side of the state. He currently employs 24 people. “I’d really like to put Elgin on the map as far as firearms. This is going to be our world headquarters and we are here for the long run,” said Holmgren. In addition to their current line of firearms, Holmgren plans on bring three or four more lines on board once the Elgin plant is up and running. “The last three years guns sales have been hot because of all the gun control talk,” explained Holmgren. “One thing some people don’t realize is that excise taxes collected from the sale of firearms is allocated to the environment.” The Firearms and Ammunition Excise Tax (FAET) goes directly to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for wildlife restoration which includes habitat restoration, hunter education, wildlife management, wildlife research, and shooting ranges. In the fiscal year of 2011 $388.2 million were collected from these taxes and in the fiscal year 2012, $555.3 million were collected.

Interpath Labs in Pendleton is one of the latest projects that WC Construction has completed on Southgate Boulevard

Friendship and Business have been the perfect mix for Bob Wiles and Dennis Cross

t is not always easy to create a business with your best friend, a risk that could cause the entire relationship to implode, but for 33 years Bob Wiles and Dennis Cross have somehow managed to lean on each other, complement each other, and remain friends while building one of the most successful construction companies in northeast Oregon. “We have totally different personalities, I’m the gambler, and he is more conservative,” said Wiles. “Very few partnerships last this long, but ours has, and we are still friends. We just learned to communicate well.” The two grew up directly across the street from each other and attended school in Elgin. “We worked out of Dennis’ garage and both our trucks after college,” said Wiles.

Milton-Freewater Rocks District AVA Awaits Approval The cobblestone rocks, scattered about in the fields of Milton-Freewater, are about to make wine history. By Lori Kimbel

The two men started out doing remodel work, then their first major house project was a Boise Cascade home. It started out at 1,100 square feet and ended up in excess of 5,000 square feet custom home. The first big commercial project was the Manuel Museum in Joseph. Times were tough in Oregon when the recession of 1983 came along. “There were only about a half dozen homes being built in Union county at that time, but we managed to survive on roof jobs, barn renovations and remodels,” said Wiles. In 1990 the duo built their first home on speculation, and then built four more that same year. “Between 1990 and 2005 we built a lot more houses, but our commercial work was now growing beyond our residential, so we decided to go with only commercial,” said Wiles. “In 1995 we laid our bags down and began to operate just the business side of the company.” Transitions and growth have continued for WC Construction. From working out of the back of a

Tamástslikt Cultural Institute Dedicates Wind Turbine

Wind turbine is expected to produce more than 94,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually

‘The Rocks District’, or ‘The Rocks’, as this area is starting to become known as, was historically, apple, cherry and apricot orchards, it has now become a place known for producing great vines that produce great wines.

On May 8, 2014 the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute dedicated its new 50-kilowatt Endurance E-3120 wind turbine, the latest step on Tamástslikt’s path toward creating a net-zero building. Net-zero energy is achieved when energy efficiency and onsite

The Rocks District Continued on Page 13

Wind Turbine Continued on Page 16

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WC Construction

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Page 1

Northeast Oregon Business News

Welcome to Northeast Oregon Business News, a Business Newspaper Created for Northeast Oregon Business Owners and their Customers

Ahhhh, summertime in Northeast Oregon…could life get any better than this? Thank you for picking up the first issue of

Northeast Oregon Business News. This first issue includes articles on the proposed AVA, called the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater. There is also an article on WC Construction, a local company in business for more than 30 years. Building a Family Legacy tells the story of Ranch and Home and the people who own it. Read all about Northwest Furniture and Mattress as well as how Calico weapons manufacturer Chris Holmgren plans to move his operation to Elgin.

I am so excited to be a part of something

that will soon be a staple for businesses in Northeast Oregon. We have decided to start out printing 10,000 copies, which will be available for free throughout NE Oregon every other month, beginning in July. As of this first issue, we are serving Baker, Morrow, Umatilla, Union, and Wallowa counties, but will most like expand to include even more of NE Oregon. As a Northeast Oregon native and business owner, I understand some of the challenges that some business owners face in this, sometimes remote feeling, part of the state. Fortunately for all of us the wide open, minimally populated area is also an asset. We have fresh air, room to stretch our legs and friends seem to be around almost every corner. There is no denying we do things differently in NE Oregon and often times ‘seal the deal’ with just a smile and a handshake. If your motto is to never do business with friends, then you probably do not live in NE Oregon.

This business newspaper has been drifting around in my mind for about 8 years. Finally the time came to turn the vision into a reality, and now that it is here I would like you all to think of this as your paper. The one that will help promote your product, your idea, your brand and your business. I would like to invite you all to become ‘members’ of NEOBN by going to www.neobn.com/

Subscribe to Northeast Oregon Business News

Just $24/year for home, or office & email delivery (6 Issues)

Name:_________________________________ Business: ______________________________ Address: ______________________________ City, State, Zip: __________________________ Phone(optional): _________________________ E-mail: ________________________________ Mail this form & a Check or Money Order to: Northeast Oregon Business News PO Box 295 Elgin, Oregon 97827 Or visit www.neobn.com/subscription/ to use paypal, or credit card.

members/membership where our list of benefits will continue to grow. Business briefs are always welcome, and will be placed in the paper as space allows. Guaranteed placement of a business brief is just $20 and is limited to 40 words. Send business briefs to lorikimbel@neobn.com or see the form on page 16. Thank you once again for picking up this business newspaper. I hope you find the stories inspiring and informational. I look forward to bringing this to you every other month and invite you to use Northeast Oregon Business News to help your business grow. Feel free to check us out on the web at www. neobn.com. We are also on Facebook at www.facebook. com/neorbn.com

Follow me on twitter @neobnlori

Feel free to e-mail me at lorikimbel@neobn. com, I am always open to suggestions on how we can make this a more valuable newspaper for our readers and advertisers. I am looking forward to meeting more of my fellow business owners throughout NE Oregon and beyond as my husband, Mark and I travel about. Sincerely, Lori Kimbel

Volume 1 - July/August 2014 Publisher Lori Kimbel lorikimbel@neobn.com PO Box 295 Elgin, Oregon 97827 541-910-1096 Circulation 10,000 distributed every other month. Serving Baker, Morrow, Umatilla, Union and Baker 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 Printed by Central Oregonian in Prineville, Oregon POSTMASTER: send address changes to Just Another Hat Publishing Company, LLC, PO Box 295, Elgin, Oregon 97827

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Ranch and Home - A Family Legacy in the Making George Dress, along with his sons, Bill and Jeff, are creating a family legacy By Lori Kimbel

With roots in Minnesota, the Dress

family ventured to Washington 23 years ago, leaving life as they knew it behind so they could began creating what is now one of the most successful ranch and home stores in southwest Washington. Two years ago they decided to see what Oregon had to offer. They opened Ranch and Home in Milton-Freewater in March of 2012 and have never regretted the decision. They attribute some of the success of the Milton-Freewater store to hiring local people with local roots. The Dresses seem to come by a keen business sense naturally. George’s dad owned a tavern, as well as a candy store where they made their own root beer. He also had a shoe shine stand and would clean and block cowboy hats. “He would let me clean the hats, but he wouldn’t let me block them,” said George. “They even sent two of John Wayne’s hats to us to be cleaned.” “We grew up learning about real estate,” said Bill Dress. George had a knack for real estate in Minnesota. He decided to expand his knowledge when he bought the Ranch and Home store in Pasco, Washington and instead of selling it for a profit, like he normally would, he decided to try his hand as owner of a farm and ranch store. He had a manager operate the store for 14 years, until George decided the time was right to sell. The store sold, but within two years the current owners, who had experience in the restaurant business, decided a farm and ranch store was just not their cup of tea. The Dresses were now in the position to either take the store back, or let their fate (and their monthly property payments) lay in the hands of someone they would not know when the current owners sold. By this time, both Bill and Jeff were out of college and looking toward their future. They approached their dad, George, and told them they would like to buy the farm and ranch store. They explained how they could each come up with a third of the money, if George would carry them for the other third. George promptly said no. Bill and Jeff, feeling a little discouraged, but determined, decided the banks would surely back them, after all, they would be putting up two thirds of the proposed asking price. Again, George said no. I am sure by this time frustration and defiance were starting to kick in, but the two boys patiently waited for their dad to explain. George proposed instead of Bill and

Jeff owning and operating the store, how about all three of them went in as equal partners and make a go of it. Bill moved to Pasco, took over the Ranch and Home and tripled the business. This would be the beginning of their Ranch and Home journey, one that has taken them from Pasco, to Kennewick, and most recently to

“We have been truly blessed, the community has been so good to us,beyond our wildest dreams.” Bill Dress Milton Freewater, Oregon. The story behind Kennewick Ranch and Home is equally interesting. The Pasco store was doing great, but something needed to happen. “Let’s either sell or expand,” Bill told his dad and brother. Shortly afterwards, the old Costco store was put up for sale, the Dresses inquired immediately, placed an offer, which was accepted within a day, then three days before Christmas of 2000 they opened the doors to Kennewick Ranch and Home.

“For three years we struggled,” said Bill, “then Dad said, ‘we are in so deep we’ve either got to keep plowing, or go broke’, we kept plowing.” When asked if they planned to expand in the future, they assured me they think about it often and have property in Hermiston waiting for when the timing is right. The Dresses all seem to realize the impact they have on each other, as well as their community and employees. “We try to make the best decisions,” said Bill. “The decisions we make affect 150 families. We have been really blessed with a great staff and the community has been good to us. I look back and think, ‘wow, I can’t believe what we’ve done’, we have had a lot of help and a lot of blessings.” The Ranch and Home stores have it all it seems. From fishing gear to clothing, from hiking boots to bar-b-ques, and from grass seed to guns, and just about everything in between. At one time they had all decided to not bring in guns. They believed they would be 90 percent headache with hardly any margin, but in 2008 they changed their minds and stocked guns and ammunition. “There are no regrets about bringing in guns. It has been one of the best decisions we have ever made. Guns bring in a lot of traffic,” said Bill. “The timing on the guns was impeccable,” said Jeff, explaining how much gun sales in the U.S. have expanded over the last five, or six years, or so.

Ranch and Home

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815 Hemlock Street Elgin, Oreg on 97827 Office: 541-437-5730 Fax: 541-437-1712 info@wcci1.com

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The Elgin Stampede Northeast Oregon Business News

Thursday - July 10, 2014 Family Night Sponsored by Community Bank

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Northeast Oregon Business News

FourBridges Capital Advises Milner Milling/Pendleton Flour Mills on Acquisition of Cereal Food Processors

Pendleton Flour Mill Pendleton, Oregon

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (May 12, 2014) – Milner Milling and Pendleton Flour Mills (Milner) announced the closing of its acquisition of Cereal Food Processors today. FourBridges Capital Advisors acted as exclusive financial advisor to Milner on the acquisition and its financing. As a result of the merger, Milner and Cereal have become the nation’s third largest flour milling company, operating under the name Grain Craft. “All three companies have similar beliefs and philosophies about how to service the customer and how to do business. These core values will only grow stronger as we become one company,” said CEO Charles Stout. A privately owned company, Milner supplies bulk and bag flour to a broad range of food manufacturers and foodservice customers. Milner primarily serves customers across the Southeast, while Pendleton operates facilities west of the Mississippi River. Cereal Food Processors, founded in 1972, is the largest independent flour milling company in the U.S., with 10 facilities across the country. “We were honored to help a hometown company execute this complex transaction,” said FourBridges Managing Director Andy Stockett. “Milner was not the only suitor for Cereal Food Processors, so we worked quickly to help Milner structure an offer, and most importantly, assure it was fully funded before they made their bid. I believe that Cereal was impressed that Milner presented a fully funded, attractive offer right out of the gate. It was obvious that they were serious bidders from the beginning.” “Milner has made acquisitions in the past, but never anything of this size or scope. Buying a business represented by an investment bank was a new experience for our management team,” Stout said. “To plan our strategy, assist with financing and

respond successfully, we relied on the expertise of the FourBridges team. We were glad to have them on our side.” ### About Milner Milling/Pendleton Flour Mills Milner Milling is a privately owned flour milling company headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee with mill locations in Barnesville and Rome, Georgia, and Birmingham, Alabama. Pendleton Flour Mills LLC (PFM) was formed by joining two prominent milling companies in the Pacific Northwest. Fisher Flour Mills was purchased by Pendleton Flour Milling to create a company to service customers on the west coast, in the mountain states and the Pacific Rim. Combined, Milner Milling/PFM is the seventh largest flour miller in the U.S. and supplies bulk and bag flour to a diverse range of food manufacturers and foodservice customers. About Cereal Food Processors Cereal Food Processors, Inc., a privately held corporation headquartered in Mission Woods, Kansas, is America’s largest independent flour milling company and the fourth largest wheat miller in the United States. Founded in 1972, Cereal Food Processors has grown through acquisitions and expansions steadily over the years, serving customers with excellence and integrity for more than 40 years. About FourBridges Capital Advisors (Member FINRA/SIPC) FourBridges Capital is an investment banking firm based in Chattanooga, Tenn., that advises companies on transactions like selling and buying companies, borrowing and raising capital. FourBridges’s senior professionals draw on both expertise in investment banking and experience as C-level executives.

Travel and Tourism Industry Achievement Awards Announced

The Oregon Tourism Commission (dba Travel Oregon) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2013 Travel and Tourism Industry Achievement Awards, presented at the 2014 Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Sunriver, Ore.

he annual awards recognize people and organizations across the state that go the extra mile to enhance the travel and tourism industry in Oregon. Nominated by their peers, 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 Tim Wood, recently retired Director of Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department. An advocate of quality experiences for the more than half-billion visitors to state parks during his tenure, Wood helped to position Oregon as a national leader in natural resource stewardship, cultural resource stewardship and interpretation. “It’s an honor to recognize Tim for his years of service,” said Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon. “His affinity for the natural wonders of Oregon and penchant to partner with Travel Oregon and bike proponents throughout the state led to the creation of the only Scenic Bikeways program in the country and an abundance of exceptional State Park opportunities that Oregonians and visitors can enjoy.” The 2013 Travel and Tourism Industry Achievement Awards were announced in these categories: The Gene Leo Memorial Award was established in 1994 to honor the late Gene Leo, known for his Oregon tourism contributions as Director of the Oregon Zoo, Portland Rose Festival and the Portland Oregon Visitors Association (now Travel Portland). Gene was an enthusiastic man who revered Oregon’s natural beauty, loved her people and enjoyed the outdoors with gusto. This award recognizes an outstanding contribution for a tourism-related activity or attraction focused on Oregon’s natural beauty or outdoor recreation.

The award was jointly presented to avid fisherman, conservationist and builder of the Steamboat Inn, Frank Moore and the inspirational filmmaker, John Waller, of Uncage the Soul Media. A soon-to-be-released film, “Mending the Line,” captures Moore’s love for the North Umpqua River and his quest to return to France to fish the rivers he crossed after landing in Normandy following the D-Day invasion. The Oregon Travel and Tourism Industry Exceptional Partnership Award recognizes the collaborative efforts essential in creating and promoting an effective tourism program or product that is more successful than any single entity could produce alone. It was presented to Carolyn Hill, CEO of Travel Southern Oregon, for her work to align a diverse group of tourism organizations under the Travel Southern Oregon umbrella. With her leadership, multiple organizations are now sharing resources and working together for the common good of the region. The Oregon Tourism Development Award recognizes creation of an innovative program, promotion, or product, utilizing best practices, sustainability, and creative problem-solving. Two awards were presented in this category. Allison George, Stakeholder Development Manager at Washington County Visitors Association was recognized for her work to develop and launch the Tualatin Valley Scenic Bikeway, Oregon’s 10th Bikeway. Ashley Horvat, Oregon’s Chief Electric Vehicle Officer, was recognized for her development of the state’s EV Tourism Program and for developing EV itineraries for visitors. Horvat’s efforts have helped Oregon lead the way nationally in EV infrastructure. The International Marketing Development Award recognizes excellence in the creative marketing and promotion of Oregon as a destination in the international marketplace. The award was given to Jennifer Morkert, Sales and Marketing Manager of Newport’s Elizabeth Street Inn. Morkert and the Elizabeth Street Inn have consistently delivered excellent value and unique visitor experiences while providing the tools that tour operators and wholesalers require to effectively sell Oregon to the global tourism market.

Young Couple at the Oregon Coast near Warrenton The Outstanding Oregon Tourism Volunteer Award recognizes the significant commitment by an individual or a group of individuals who exemplify the positive impact volunteers have on Oregon’s travel and tourism industry and on the state’s economy. The award was presented to Mike Cosgrove, the immediate former chair of the Oregon Scenic Bikeways Committee at the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department. Cosgrove founded and coordinates John Day’s lone bike shop – an organization run solely by volunteers who recognize the value of attracting cyclists to their community. The Oregon Sustainable Tourism Leadership Award recognizes the outstanding leadership, stewardship, philanthropic and socially responsible practices that embody a strong commitment to decreasing the environmental impact of the travel and tourism industry. Two lodging properties were recognized in this category. WildSpring Guest Habitat’s founders, Michelle and Dean Duarte of Port Orford were saluted for their early participation in the Oregon Travel Philanthropy Fund and for their communications around the importance of the sustainable environment at their eco-friendly, zero carbon resort. Portland’s Heathman Hotel and its general

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manager, Chris Erickson, were also honored for exemplifying sustainable tourism leadership. The property offers electric vehicle charging infrastructure and sustainability packages for guests. The Heathman Hotel was an initial adopter and advocate of Travel Oregon Forever programs, as well. 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. In light of the Portland Japanese Garden’s 50+ year history and strategic planning for an expansion that will benefit future generations, Stephen Bloom, CEO of the Portland Japanese Garden was lauded with this year’s award. The world-class attraction has provided cultural, creative and educational opportunities for more than 3.5 million visitors. 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 aims to improve 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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Northeast Oregon Business News

USDA Announces $150 Million Investment Fund to Grow Small Businesses, Create Jobs in Rural America New Fund, Established as Part of

White House Rural Council’s “Made in Rural America” Export and Investment Initiative, Now Allows USDA to Facilitate Private Equity Investments in Agriculture-related Businesses Cedar Rapids, Iowa, April 21, 2014 – As part of the Obama Administration’s new “Made in Rural America” export and investment initiative,

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the creation of a new investment fund that will help propel the growth of small businesses across rural America. The new Rural Business Investment Company (RBIC) will now allow USDA to facilitate private equity investments in agriculture-related businesses. Currently, USDA programs exist to help provide loans or loan guarantees to help rural businesses grow, but many small cutting-edge businesses also need

equity support in addition to or instead of borrowed funds. Advantage Capital Partners, which will manage the new fund, and their partners from eight Farm Credit institutions have pledged to invest nearly $150 million into the new effort. “This new fund will allow innovative small businesses throughout rural America to access the capital they need to grow and create jobs,” Vilsack said. “One of USDA’s top priorities is to help

Ecotrust Awarded $35 million in New Federal Tax Credits Funds will be put toward job creation, environmental restoration in rural communities June 16, 2014, Portland, Oregon — Ecotrust CDE, a subsidiary of Ecotrust, has received $35 million in federal New Markets Tax Credits to support employment and innovation in distressed communities throughout the Northwest. Ecotrust will use the new federal financing to restore and enhance rural infrastructure, support vibrant local communities and economies, and promote wise stewardship of landscapes and oceans. It is the fifth award of New Markets Tax Credits for Ecotrust, stretching back to 2005. The organization’s awards since the inception of the program total more than $200 million. “We’re humbled and inspired to have a new round of tax credits to extend the economic recovery to rural areas around the region,” says Adam Lane, Managing Director of Ecotrust CDE. “We thank our congressional delegation, including Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden and Representative Earl Blumenauer, for supporting our application for these important federal funds.” The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund announced $3.5 billion in New Markets Tax Credit awards nationwide. Ecotrust was one of 87 organizations across the country to earn allocation under the latest round of the New Markets Tax Credit Program, and one of only 12 community organizations nationwide deploying tax credits primarily to stimulate growth in rural areas. Since its first award in 2005, Ecotrust has dedicated its New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) allocation to revitalizing rural economies in the Pacific Northwest, by investing in new and expanded processing capacity of natural resources and by supporting the acquisition and management of forestland by conservation, community, and tribal interests. In March, Ecotrust announced a NMTC transaction that brought $4 million in tax credit financing for upgrades to the small-diameter sawmill at Rough & Ready Lumber. The new financing reopened the last mill in distressed Josephine County -which holds one of the highest unemployment rates in the state – and the improvements

will realign the mill with the small diameter wood that now dominates the fire-prone forests of Southern Oregon. The Rough & Ready project built on several prior NMTC disbursements to improve mill infrastructure and restore a viable forest products industry across the state, including a 2010 investment in Ochoco Lumber Company to refinance and stabilize the last remaining mill in John Day, Oregon and construct a new pellet fuel facility there. Ecotrust CDE also placed NMTC dollars in an affiliate of Roseburg Resources to fund mill improvements and enhance financial stability at eight of its mills during the worst of the recent downturn, which hit Northwest sawmills particularly hard. “Our vision is to build efficient, distributed, locally-owned processing capacity in the region, in order to create a more equitable sharing of opportunities and wealth,” says Bettina von Hagen, Director of Investments for Ecotrust CDE. “We are looking to use NMTC strategically to expand and enhance local manufacturing capacity, create critical family wage jobs in hard-hit rural towns and provide efficient markets for forest landowners and farmers. Our projects also benefit communities through innovative use of renewable resources, conversion of waste into products and energy, improved environmental conditions, and through expanded access to local resources.” The New Markets Tax Credit Program was established by Congress in December 2000 to help economically distressed communities attract private investment capital by providing investors with a federal tax credit. To find out more about the program and this year’s awards, visit the CDFI Fund website. About Ecotrust Ecotrust’s mission is to foster a natural model of development that creates more resilient communities, economies and ecosystems here and around the world. Overmorethan 20years, Ecotrust has converted $80 million in grants into morethan $800 million in capital assets at work forlocal people, businesses, andorganizations from Alaskato California. Ecotrust’s many innovations include co-founding an environmental bank, starting the world’s first ecosystem investment fund, creating a range of programs in fisheries,forestry, food, farms and indigenous affairs,and developing new scientific and information tools to improve social, economic and environmental decision making. Ecotrust works locally in ways that promise hope abroad, and it takes inspiration from the wisdom of Native and First Nation leadership. Learn more at www.ecotrust. org

“ You will hit what you aim at. If you aim at nothing you will hit it every time.”- Zig Ziglar

reenergize the rural economy, and we now have a powerful new tool available to help achieve that goal. This new partnership will allow us to facilitate private investment in businesses working in bio-manufacturing, advanced energy production, local and regional food systems, improved farming technologies and other cutting-edge fields.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 RURAL AMERICA

Greg Walden urges FDA to reconsider rule that could harm Oregon brewers, ranchers WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Greg Walden (R-Ore.) has written to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing concern about a proposed rule that could harm the craft brewing and livestock industries in Oregon. The rule proposes to tightly regulate brewers’ “spent grains,” a byproduct of the beer-making process. It has long been common in the industry for brewers to sell or give the spent grains to ranchers for use as animal feed. “The FDA’s recent rule proposes to regulate spent brewers grains as animal food, and brewers as feed manufacturers. The result of this could be a disaster for jobs and tourism in southern, central, and eastern Oregon. I urge you to reassess this one-size-fits-all proposed rule and work directly with members of the craft brewing and livestock industries so that food safety can be ensured, without putting these industries out of business,” Walden wrote to FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg. The text of Walden’s letter is below. For a signed copy of the letter, please click here. Oregon brewers have been concerned about the proposed regulation. “The relationship between farmer and brewer has existed for millennia. I am not aware of a single incident in that time of food borne illness for either animal or human. This ruling could do severe harm to both brewers and farmers as well as fill our landfills with what would otherwise be productive animal feed. Thankfully there are leaders in Congress like Greg Walden who are lending sanity to this situation,” said Gary Fish, founder and CEO of Deschutes Brewery in Bend. Walden helped found the U.S. House Small Brewers Caucus in 2007. According to the Oregon Brewers Guild, Oregon beer industries employ 6,400 full and part-time employees—an increase of 900 jobs from 2011. There are over a dozen breweries in Central Oregon, and four within the city limits of Hood River alone. The livestock industry in Oregon has been around for generations, and Oregon’s ranchers bring over $650 million into Oregon’s economy, according to the Oregon Department of Agriculture.

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Ranch and Home Genetically Engineered Continued From Page 3 Agriculture Task Force

Not everyone has it in them to run a successful family business. It takes a lot of compromise, determination, love and business savvy. The Dresses seem to have all that and more. “We’ve accomplished a lot, and we get to hunt together, fish together, golf together. We don’t always agree, but I tell them, ‘be reasonable’, do it my way,” said George with a chuckle. “He’s family,” Jeff said, referring to his older brother Bill. “I get to see him every day. We think alike on some things, but differently on others. I have knowledge of some things, he has knowledge on others, and then Dad shows up and he is like the ‘All Knowing’. It is great working with both of them. It’s a pretty good fit.” “Working with your family is the best of times and the worst of times,” Bill said, as he laughed. “Seriously, it’s pretty good. When we were kids we fought like cats and dogs. After I came back from college and saw him I realized I kind of missed him. We still have our issues, but we have been a lot closer ever since.” The bond these two brothers have is obvious, and the love and respect they each have for their dad is undeniable. “It is pretty cool that I get to see my dad every day. I pay attention to his old stories, and all of the things he learned.” Bill told me that he and Jeff

often wondered if the stories they heard from George were exaggerated versions of the truth, but as they got older, and more and more of George’s old friends confirmed the stories he would tell, the two boys couldn’t help but be convinced the stories they grew up hearing were indeed true. Owning and operating a business comes with many challenges, but it also comes with many rewards. “This has given me the opportunity to be able to spend a lot of time working with both Dad and Bill. It has also given me time to spend with my wife and my boys,” said Jeff. “It is great being able to make your own decisions and call your own shots.” I like to ask people what makes

Brothers, Bill & Jeff them great. It is a tough question for a lot of people. Many try to deny any greatness, but I believe we all have some level of ‘great’ and when we can recognize it, accept it, and build on it, the world can become a better place. “I don’t know that I have that much greatness,” said Jeff. “I do what I do because it came from my family upbringing, and from the support of my family, and my friends, and the customers who have become friends. To me it comes from my roots, and being raised in the small town of Albert Lea, Minnesota.” “I get a big kick out of helping others,” said Bill when asked about greatness. “I have genuine concern for the other person. To me real success is helping others achieve their goals and dreams.” “As long as it is fun we will do it. When it ceases to be fun it is time to get out,” said George. Although they still refer to Albert Lea as their other home, no one in the family seems to have any regrets about moving from Minnesota to Tri-Cities, Washington. “Living out here is terrific,” said Jeff. “We have been truly blessed,” said Bill, “The community has been so good to us, beyond our wildest dreams.”

“Oregon farmers and

consumers are grappling with major issues associated with genetically modified crops and food,” said Governor Kitzhaber. “This Task Force will bring people with diverse perspectives together to help improve understanding of the range of issues and move forward on solutions that fit Oregonians’ values and needs.” The Task Force will identify and frame the major issues between growers of genetically-engineered (GE) agricultural products and other producers, including organic growers. The Governor also asked members to identify and describe areas of agreement and disagreement related to GE and nonGE food products, including information for consumers, and strategies other states and regions have used to address these areas of concern. The Task Force is expected to meet through the fall of this year. The first meeting will focus on organizational matters rather than substantive topics. Co-convenors Dan Arp, Dean of the School of Agriculture at Oregon State University, and Jennifer Allen, Director of the Institute for Sustainable Solutions at Portland State University, will set the stage for future discussions, reminding members that they do not need to reach consensus on issues to prepare a report for the Governor.

“Our efforts will be focused on laying out broad and diverse perspectives on GE agriculture issues in Oregon,” said Dr. Allen. “Because we will be discussing a range of strategies and approaches to develop a comprehensive understanding of the issues, we can really benefit from the specific skills and experience each member brings to the table. This will be a good conversation for Oregon.” Task Force Members: • Barry Bushue, Oregon Farm Bureau • Katy Coba, Oregon Department of Agriculture • Connie Kirby, Northwest Food Processors Association • Greg Loberg, Oregon Seed Trade Association • Ivan Maluski, Friends of Family Farmers • Frank Morton, Shoulder to Shoulder Farm • Jim Myers, Oregon State University • Marty Myers, Threemile Canyon Farms • Paulette Pyle, Oregonians for Food and Shelter • Chris Schreiner, Oregon Tilth • Lisa Sedlar, Green Zebra Grocery • Steve Strauss, Oregon State University • Sam Tannahill, A to Z Wineworks

Leaders think and talk about the solutions. Followers think and talk about the problems. - Brian Tracy

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Interactive Learning at the Sage Center

The Sage Center is located at 101 Olson Road in Boardman Memorial Day to Labor Day Sunday – Thursday 10 – 5 Friday – Saturday 10 – 6 Labor Day to Memorial Day Monday – Saturday 10 – 5 General Admission $5 Students and Seniors $3 Under 5 Free Max per Family $20

For more than a year now the Sage Center in Boardman has been educating it’s visitors on the economic diversity of the Port of Morrow Lori Kimbel

n the year 2000, when Tillamook created a new factory at the Port of Morrow, many were excited at the thought of a visitor center similar to the Tillamook Cheese Factory in Lincoln City. When area leaders realized this was not part of Tillamook’s intention, they decided to take matters into their own hands, and conceptualized a visitor center of their own. With the help of the Oregon Lottery and the Port of Morrow, leaders began making their dream a reality, and now, fourteen years later, the Sage Center is a popular interactive visitor center managed by the Port of Morrow.

“The Sage Center was built to tell the story of the region and show people the world class industries located in Eastern Oregon,” said Kalie Davis, Sage Center Manager. With an emphasis on the region’s history, agriculture, industries, energy production, sustainability practices, and transportation infrastructure, visitors can see first-hand just how some of the businesses, located at the Port of Morrow, operate. The interactive center gives visitors the opportunity to explore Morrow County through the Sage Center’s Hot Air Balloon Experience. They can also see how potatoes are processed as they make their way from the field to the table on the processing sculpture. A world map depicts where products, raised in the Port of Morrow, are shipped all over the world. Visitors will also learn about the different types of transportation that are used at the Port of Morrow including barges, rail lines and trucking. GPS Technology has changed the way farmers plant their crops. Visitors can learn all about this

Tillamook Completes Plant Expansion in Boardman

fter just over a year of construction, the Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA), producers of Tillamook Cheese, has completed a 64,000 square-foot expansion project at its production facility in Boardman, Oregon. The facility expansion adds whey processing capabilities to Tillamook’s existing cheese making plant in Boardman. The demand for such capability has grown significantly in the last several years, as the lactose and high-quality protein components derived from whey (which is separated from milk in order to make cheese) are increasingly being recognized for their high nutritional value and used in products like infant formula, performance nutrition products and products that help manage some of the impacts of aging. The new facility will process and dry these components to produce whey protein concentrate (WPC-80) and lactose powder. The WPC-80 and lactose powder produced at the new facility will be sold in domestic and export food-ingredient markets. “While our primary business remains focused on our branded Tillamook Cheese and other Tillamook Dairy products, this new facility gives us the ability to maximize the value we derive from every pound of milk we process,” said Patrick Criteser, president and CEO of Tillamook County Creamery Association. “Our farm-family owners committed a significant investment to enhance our infrastructure in Boardman, and we look forward to the opportunities this expansion will provide us to help continue to successfully grow our business well into the future.” The plant expansion added approximately 40 new jobs at TCCA’s Boardman facility.

To contact the Sage Center by e-mail sagecenter@portofmorrow.com or call 541-481-7243.

new farming technique, as well as see how well they can plant corn in a straight line, just one of the Sage Center’s hands-on exhibits. The Sage Center also has a 200 seat theater where they show educational films, as well as popular movies on occasion. Free educational field trips are offered to area school children where they will learn about modern farming and irrigation, food processing and safety, hydropower and wind energy, biofuels and biochemical, as well as the history of the region. The store at the Sage Center is operated by the Boardman Chamber of Commerce. Be sure to stop in and see their collection of handmade art and jewelry, which is made in the Pacific Northwest. They also have a great selection of books, and local food items, including Tillamook Cheese.

From the Web

www.visitsage.com/port-of-morrow As the region’s economic development leader, the Port of Morrow, in cooperation with other community businesses and organizations, promotes economic expansion and creation of family wage jobs through maintaining a positive business environment; developing water sources; providing and expanding utility services; expanding regional hub roles and capabilities; and fully developing industrial, commercial and community development potential while supporting the region’s quality of life. For more information on the Port of Morrow visit

www.portofmorrow.com

Port of Morrow Businesses Searchable Links Available Online at www.neobn.com

3-Mile Canyon Ranch A & S Pump & Machine Aggregato Terminal Avista Barenburg Boardman Chip Calbee North America Cascade Specialties Cemex Materials Con Agra Coyote Springs Devin Energy East Oregon Grain Growers Fredrickson Farms

Greenwood Resources IRZ JSH Farms Lamb Weston L-S Transport LTI Inc. Morrow Cold Storage Morrow Foods Morrow Power NW Container Service OP Potato Co. Oregon Hay Products Pacific Ethanol Pacific Ethanol Columbia

PGE Pierce Corp Rack Space Reklaim Technologies River Lodge and Grill Tide Water Tillamook Cheese Treadit Tire and Wheel Upper Columbia Mill VA Data PDX 2 VA Data PDX1 WI Construction ZeaChem Inc.

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/windcarver and in Grass Valley

Windcarver Gifts

Windcarver Gifts is located at 101 NE Church Street Highway 97 Grass Valley, Oregon Ownded by Richard (pictured left) and June Marie Bell. Find Jewelry and Artwork created by Richard and June Marie as well as petrified wood, collectible items, crystals and carvings. For more information: Windcarver@centurylink.net

Local Chambers of Commerce Baker County Chamber 490 Campbell St. Baker City, OR 97814 (541) 523-5855 www.visitbaker.com Boardman Chamber of Commerce 206 N. Main St. Boardman, OR 97818 (541) 481-3014 www.visitboardman.com Elgin Chamber of Commerce PO Box 1001 Elgin, OR 97827 541-786-1770 www.visitelginoregon.com Heppner Chamber of Commerce W May Street PO Box 1232 Heppner, OR 97836 541-676-5536 www.heppnerchamber.com Hermiston Chamber of Commerce 415 S. Hwy. 395 PO Box 185 Hermiston, OR 97838 541-567-6151 www.hermistonchamber.com

Milton-Freewater Chamber of Commerce 157 S. Columbia Milton-Feewater, OR 97862 541-938-5563 www.mfchamber.com Pendleton Chamber of Commerce 501 S. Main Pendleton, OR 97801 541-276-7411 www.pendletonchamber.com Umatilla Chamber of Commerce 100 Cline Ave. PO Box 67 Umatilla, OR 97882 ph: 541-922-4825 fax: 541-922-9551 www.umatillaoregonchamber.org Union County Chamber 207 Depot St, La Grande, OR 97850 (541) 963-8588 www.unioncountychamber.org Wallowa County Chamber 309 S River St, Enterprise, OR 97828 (541) 426-4622 www.wallowacountychamber.com

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Northeast Oregon Business Briefs Nature’s Pantry in La Grande has expanded! Visit them at 1907 4th Street in La Grande. For more information call 541-963-7955, or visit www.naturespantrynaturalfoods.com , find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/naturespantrylg Cowboy and Angel’s Place is a new restaurant now open in Elgin at 980 Division Street. 541-437-0888. Giorgio’s Cucina Italiano Italian Restaurant is now open in Pendleton at 45 SE Emigrant. 541-612-8588. Sharon’s Sweet Treats is now open at 235 E. Main Street in Hermiston. 541-567-2634. Stein Distillery’s Big Buck Blend was crowned Best American Blended Whiskey at the World Whiskey Awards. Stein Distillery is located in Joseph at 604 N. Main. 541-432-2009. Allure Beauty Bar – Salon & Boutique is now open at 1120 Adams Avenue in La Grande. A full service salon for men, women and kids. 541-786-5479. Construction has begun on McLean Family Dental’s new building on Adams in La Grande. Visit www.mcleanmyteeth.com or call 541-963-4000. They are currently accepting new patients.

541-215-5215.

Blue Mt. Outfitters for all your outdoor needs is now open at 1124 Adams Avenue in La Grande. Visit www. bluemtnoutfitters.com or call 541-612-0148.

John Lackey has opened Source One Business Consulting and is now open in La Grande at 1015 Adams Avenue and can be reached at 541-963-4400.

G & R Sari-Sari Store is moving to their new location at 1610 SW Emigrant Avenue in Pendleton, right across from KFC.

Northeast Oregon Business News releases their first issue. Look for issue #2 in September. Email lorikimbel@neobn. com for advertising opportunities

Joseph Branch Railriders is now in full operation. The two-seat recumbent bicycles will carry railriders from Joseph to Enterprise on the Wallowa Union Railroad (WURR). 541-910-0981. One and Only Bridal Shop is now open at 210 Chestnut in La Grande. 541-963-9210. Direct Music Source has moved to 1206 Adams. They will be celebrating their 10th Anniversary on August 16. The newly remodeled Lostine Tavern is now open at 125 Highway 82 in Lostine. 541263-0347.

Defining Details, a Portrait and Paper Studio has moved into her new studio at 296 E. Main Street in Hermiston. 541-571-8684.

ConAgra Foods Lamb Weston held their Grand Opening in Boardman on June 27. GCAP (Government Contract Assistance Program) has opened a technical assistance center in La Grande. The office is located at 104 Depot Street in La Grande. 541-786-7272 or visit www.gcap.org. Island City Market is expanding their catering and will soon have a banquet room available for parties, meetings, and receptions at Island City Market’s Urban Vine. Timber-N-Turn Saw & Lawnmower is now open at 10304 West 1st Street in Island City. 541-963-5900 Ron’s Place Pizza, in Milton-Freewater, has new owners, Doug and Becky Reynolds. 1014 S. Main www. ronsplacepizza.com The BBQ Shack is open at their new location at 1702 Spruce Street in La Grande. Call in orders available at 541-663-6879

We’re Proud To Help Our Local Businesses With Their Financing Needs If you run a business in Northeastern Oregon, Community Bank can help you reach your business goals. Contact your local branch about commercial or agricultural loans or lines, business checking options, and other business services.

Local Money Working For Local People

www.communitybanknet.com

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Winn Homestead Events

Wholly GuacamoleThat Was Good!

- The Lostine Tavern

fter watching the remodeling progress on Facebook over the last several months we decided to head to Wallowa County and visit the Lostine Tavern for dinner. Little did we know it was the famous ‘Lostine Tavern Taco Night’. They would begin serving tacos at 5 p.m. We had arrived at 4:45. Our waitress, Sarah, visited with us about the remodeling project, taco night, our ‘tobacco can tab’, the people who now own the restaurant and life in general. She was friendly, outgoing and a great asset to the Lostine Tavern crew. The Lostine Tavern is a farm to fork establishment, with local produce and beef products sure to entice the most finicky of eaters. Our tacos were huge and we were able to add all the fixings we wanted at their taco bar, which included a tasty fresh salsa. The staff was friendly and efficient and the atmosphere was almost celebration-like. With the devastating fire the downtown

area of Lostine had this past winter, I think everyone is so glad the town has refused to die, and with the reopening of the Lostine Tavern, I believe Lostine has no intention of becoming a ghost town, and the people who live and love it there could not be more pleased. Inside the tavern, it is hard to imagine that it is the same space the old

Lostine Tavern resided in. It almost has a big city feel, I know that sounds crazy when we are talking about Lostine, one of the smallest communities in Oregon, but it really does. It seems like one of those great places you find tucked away, off the beaten

Winn Homestead Events has the perfect venue for your country wedding track, in Portland, Seattle, or Bend. Of course the friendliness is all Northeast Oregon. The rock backdrop of the bar lends a distinct ruggedness to the tavern, while the wooden tables and warmly painted walls give it a homey feel. Yes this is not the old LT, but I have a feeling it will find a place in the hearts of those that may have mixed emotions about their home-town tavern’s transformation. We had a chance to visit with one of the owners, Lisa, as she took a break from writing on a few of the chalkboards that adorn a couple of places on the walls. It is obvious the tavern is a labor of love for her and she was warm and welcoming, and we will not hesitate to go back. After all, we were just there on taco night, the main menu had plenty of dishes created from local faire that we are going to have to find time to try. The next time you find yourself driving through Lostine on your way to Chief Joseph Days, or for a day at Wallowa Lake, do yourself a favor and stop in at the Lostine Tavern. You won’t be disappointed and kids can visit there until 9 p.m.

The vintage barn is the perfect backdrop for your wedding and reception. You will be able to rest assured that owners, Preston & Arlene Winn, will do their best to make your special day memorable. With 2 acres of lawn, outdoor accommodations for 300 guests, off street parking for 100 cars, portable toilets and a hand washing station, along with a parking attendant, and chairs and tables. A bridal suite and grooms cabin is also available. The Winn Homestead first began in 1875 when Jesse Z. Winn homesteaded there. The vintage barn, built in 1916, took 30 men 30 days to build, and cost just $3,000. The upstairs held hay and grain while the lower level

housed the horses until the 1930’s. Dairy cows became a source of income until the great depression. Beef cattle were raised between the 1930’s and 1970’s, from the 1940’s to the 1980’s George Robert Winn raised potatoes, beans, wheat, barley, dry peas, green peas, spinach seeds, lettuce seeds, wheat seed, and strawberries. The Winn’s continued to raise strawberries for 50 years, until deer kept destroying their crops. Once Preston and Arlene decided to end strawberry production, the thought of a venue, with the fabulous Winn barn as the main event, began to seem more and more appealing. In addition to weddings, Winn Homestead is also a great place to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries, business BBQ’s, church gatherings, family, or high school reunions. The Winn Homestead is located at 79560 Winn Road in Weston, Oregon. Contact Arlene at 541-969-2226 or e-mail her at info@winnhomestead.com

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Northeast Oregon Business News Business Directory

AUTO DEALER

AUTO DEALER net

AUTO REPAIR

Legacy Ford La Grande, Oregon 541-963-2161

Legacy Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Island City, Oregon 541-962-7099 www.legacychryslerjeepdodgeram.net

Legacy Ford La Grande, Oregon 541-963-2161 www.legacyfordlagrande.com

Legacy Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Island City, Oregon 541-962-7099

AUTO PARTS

BANKING

BUSINESS ADVICE

Legacy Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Island City, Oregon 541-962-7099

Community Bank Joseph, Oregon 97846

www.legacychryslerjeepdodgeram.net

Legacy Ford La Grande, Oregon 541-963-2161 www.legacyfordlagrande.com

Small Business Development Center 1607 Gekeler Lane La Grande, Oregon 97850 541-962-1532 www.eousbdc.com

CONSTRUCTION

COMMUNITY

FARM EQUIPMENT

HOME LOANS

Wenaha Group Pendleton, Oregon 97801 541-969-1328 www.wenahagroup.com OR CCB: 196085

Elgin Chamber of Commerce PO Box 1001 Elgin, Oregon 97827 541-786-1770 www.visitelginoregon.com

RDO FARM EQUIPMENT Hermiston: 1-800-357-7925 Pendleton: 1-800-422-5598 Wasco: 1-800-989-7351

Community Bank 609 N. Main Street Joseph, Oregon 97846 541-432-9050 www.communitybanknet.com

INSURANCE

SPORTS APPAREL

SURVIVAL KITS

TIRES & WHEELS

Blue Mt. Outfitters 1124 Adams Avenue La Grande, Oregon 97850 541-612-0148

FIERCE SURVIVAL KITS WWW.FIERCEKITS.COM 541-910-7483

La Grande Les Schwab 2306 Adams Ave. La Grande, Oregon 541-963-8411 www.lesschwab.com

Wheatland 229 SW First Pendleton, Oregon 97801 541-293-2124 www.wheatlandins.com

“Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” – Albert Einstein

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Do you have Bed & Breakfast, Hotel, Cabin or RV Park you would like to advetise, but feeling a little strapped for cash? How about doing a little bartering? How about a restaurant, concert, event, product, or service? This ad space is a $306 value. Bartering does not neccesarily have to be of equal values. For more information email: lorikimbel@neobn.com All offers considered Space is limited Billing will show actual ad value for tax purposes

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Comment Period Extended for the Blue Mountains Proposed Revised Forest Plan Baker City The time to comment on the Blue Mountains National Forests Proposed Revised Land Management Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) has been extended by 60 days; deadline for submitting comments is now August 15, 2014. Regional Forester Kent Connaughton

approved the extension in order for the public to have time to review the extensive document and submit comments. The Proposed Revised Forest Plan and DEIS became available for review on March 14, 2014 for a minimum 90-day comment period. The 90-day comment period was originally set to end on June 16, 2014, as iden-

tified in the federal register (https:// federalregister.gov/a/2014-05674); however is now extended to August 15, 2014. The intent is to have the Extension of the Comment Period notice posted in the Federal Register on April 25, 2014. The comment period is an opportunity for the public to be involved in the decision making process, to

Secretary Vilsack Announces Regional Hubs to Help Agriculture, Forestry Mitigate the Impacts of a Changing Climate PORTLAND, Ore. FEBRUARY 6, 2014—Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced yesterday the creation of the first-ever Regional Hubs for Risk Adaptation and Mitigation to Climate Change at seven locations around the country. These “Climate Hubs”—one of which will serve the Northwest and be led by the Forest Service—will address increasing risks such as fires, invasive pests, devastating floods, and crippling droughts on a regional basis, aiming to translate science and research into information that farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners can use to adapt and adjust their resource management. In his State of the Union Address, President Obama pledged that his Administration will continue to do everything in its power to act on climate change. This announcement is part of the President’s Climate Action Plan to responsibly cut carbon pollution, slow the effects of climate change, and put America on track to a cleaner environment. “For generations, America’s farmers, ranchers and forest landowners have innovated and adapted to challenges. Today, they face a new and more complex threat in the form of a changing and shifting climate, which impacts both our nation’s forests and our farmers’ bottom lines,” said Vilsack. “USDA’s Climate Hubs are part of our broad commitment to developing the next generation of climate solutions, so that our agricultural leaders have the modern technologies and tools they need to adapt and succeed in the face of a changing climate.” The Hubs were established in response to the growing threat climate change presents to U.S. forest resources, agricultural production, and rural economies. They were chosen through a competitive process among USDA facilities. The Hubs are located across the country, in the Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, Southern Plains, Northern Plains, Southwest, and Pacific Northwest. In the Northwest, landowners and producers already are facing the challenges of a changing climate and increased weather variability in the form of reduced snowmelt, more fre-

Eastern Oregon University Small Business Development Center 1607 Gekeler Lane, Rm 148 La Grande, OR 97850 Phone: (541) 962-1532 Email: eousbdc@gmail.com Disclaimer: The SBDC is partially funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), SBA funding is not an endorsement of any products, opinions or services. All SBA funded programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Special arrangements for handicapped individuals will be made if requested in advance.

quent fires, and higher temperatures and drought. The Northwest Regional Climate Hub (NRCH) will provide technical support, assessments, regional forecasts, and outreach and education to farmers, forest landowners, and ranchers to help them respond to the projected effects of a changing climate in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. The NRCH will be led by the USDA Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest (PNW) Research Station from its lab in Corvallis, Oregon. “People who work directly with the land need access to our best information about climate trends so they can make wise decisions about investing in crops, machinery, irrigation, and processing,” said Beatrice Van Horne, PNW Research Station Program Manager and NRCH Director. The NRCH also will serve as a critical link in a broad network of partners participating in climate risk adaptation and mitigation across its four-state region, including the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Agricultural Research Service, Oregon State University, Washington State University, University of Idaho, U.S. Geological Survey, and many other educational, federal, state, and local agencies and groups. “Our partners at universities, climate science centers, federal research labs, and other research centers have been working hard to understand climate fluctuations and predict future trends,” Van Horne said. “I’m looking forward to finding out what people working directly with the land want to know and working with partners to provide that information.” To learn more about the USDA Climate Hubs, visit http://www.usda.gov/oce/climate_change/regional_hubs.htm. The Pacific Northwest Research Station—headquartered in Portland, Ore.—generates and communicates scientific knowledge that helps people make informed choices about natural resources and the environment. The station has 11 laboratories and centers located in Alaska, Washington, and Oregon and about 400 employees.

offer thoughts on alternative ways the Forest Service can accomplish what is proposed, and to comment on the agency’s preferred alternative and analysis. Input provided by the public will help determine management direction for the final Forest Plans.

FOREST PLAN

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

The Rocks

Continued from Page 1 Wine regions are distinguished by the area of land they are located in. This land area is called an American Viticulture Area (AVA) and Steve Robertson, of SJR Vinyard and Delmas Winery, along with geologist Kevin Pogue, have submitted a petition to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) asking that The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater have its own AVA. The proposal is expected to be approved sometime this year, and the implications of what it could mean for Milton-Freewater tourism is yet to be discovered, but the future is looking bright. This new AVA would lie within the Walla Walla Valley AVA, yet it is located completely in Oregon. The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater is unique in more ways than one. Once approved, The Rocks District AVA will be the only AVA in the United States whose boundaries are defined by the soil type, according to Robertson. The Rocks District will also be one of the smallest AVA’s in the Northwest, with just 3,767 acres. The soil in The Rocks District is distinct from soil in other parts of the Columbia Valley, where the Missoula Floods swept through tens of thousands of years ago, forever changing the makeup of the soil. The Rocks District, however, in addition to the Missoula Flood soil, also has alluvial material washed down from the Blue Mountains by the Walla Walla River, consisting of rounded pebbles and larger cobblestones. A soil, rich in benefits, to the grapes that grow here. According to Robertson, the rocks act as mini radiant heaters that warm the grapes, as well as the vine roots, longer throughout the day, creating the grapes he uses to make his Delmas Syrah. “This is the most important thing I will ever do,” said Robertson, referring to the AVA petition. Currently there are 250 Vineyards and four wineries in the proposed Rocks District.

Elgin Trailer Parts For All of Your Trailer Part Needs www.elgintrailerparts.com

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Northwest Furniture & Mattress Now Open In La Grande

ike and Shaun Daggett, of Northwest Furniture and Mattress, have been walking through the double glass doors at 215 Elm Street for many years, but these last few months I am sure the steel door handles have had a completely different feel. Up until the end of November, Make and Shaun were working at 215 Elm Street for Gene Demeerleer, who owned Furni-

RURAL AMERICA

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 The fund is being formed under the USDA’s Rural Business Investment Program (RBIP). USDA utilizes RBIP to license funds to invest in enterprises that will create growth and job opportunities in rural areas, with an emphasis on smaller enterprises. Working through the USDA program enables licensed funds to raise capital from Farm Credit System banks and associations. The Farm Credit System, a nationwide network of banks and lending associations specifically chartered to serve agriculture and the U.S. rural economy, is an essential provider of credit to agriculture and rural America. This new partnership between Farm Credit institutions and Advantage Capital, a leading growth capital and small business finance firm, brings together resources and people that are focused on providing more private capital, small business investment and quality jobs to rural America. This public-private partnership will have a tangible positive impact on our rural economy and is a model of how government can serve as a catalyst for private investment in rural America. Eight Farm Credit institutions providing initial investments in the RBIC fund are: AgStar Financial Services (Mankato, Minn.); AgriBank (St. Paul, Minn.); Capital Farm Credit (Bryan, Texas); CoBank (Denver, Colo.); Farm Credit Bank of Texas (Austin, Texas); Farm Credit Services of America (Omaha, Neb.); Farm Credit Mid-America (Louisville, Ky.); and United Farm Credit Service (Willmar, Minn.). USDA also announced that it will be accepting applications for other new Rural Business Investment Companies such as the one announced today.

ture West, but now when they open those double-glass doors it is all theirs. From the freshly painted walls to the furniture on the floor, from the potted plants, to the wall-hangings, the father-son duo are ready to fill all of your furniture needs. “There is a lot that I learned from Gene that I am carrying over,” said Shaun about his former boss at Furniture West. “He worked harder than three people put together.” There are those that think it might be difficult to work with family, and then there is Mike and Shaun. “I enjoy working with my dad,” said Shaun, who explained it was nice to

hear his dad talking to customers about how well he, Shaun, would take care of them. “We both enjoy doing this,” said Mike. “Basically, I bought my job until I retire, and this will support Shaun and his family for years to come.” With an entire showroom of furniture and mattresses, the Daggett’s will continue to offer excellent customer service to the customers they have grown to know and care about over the years. For those of you who have yet to experience their friendly demeanors, you will certainly be glad you decided to shop for new furniture, or for a new mattress at Northwest Furniture and Mattress. Oregon-made Stanton Furniture is just one of the fine companies featured in Northwest Furniture and Mattress. Other American-made brands include Best Chairs from Indiana, Southern Motion from Missouri, and Oak Creek Manufacturing from Payette, Ida-

Interested applicants have until July 29th to submit their applications for review in FY2014. Any application accepted after this deadline will be held for consideration next year. USDA intends to accept RBIC applications through 2016, detailed information including application materials and instructions can be found at: www.rurdev.usda.gov/BCP_RBIP. html. In addition, Secretary Vilsack said that the White House Rural Council, as part of the Made in Rural America initiative, will convene the Rural Opportunity Investment Conference later this year to attract additional investments to rural America by connecting major investors with rural business leaders, government officials, economic development experts and other partners. This conference will promote opportunities to invest in rural America by highlighting successful projects in energy, biofuels and bioproducts, infrastructure, transportation, water systems, telecommunications, health care, manufacturing, and local and regional food systems. To learn more about the conference, visit www.usda.gov/investmentconference. About the White House Rural Council To address challenges in Rural America, build on the Administration’s rural economic strategy, and improve the implementation of that strategy, the President signed an Executive Order establishing the White House Rural Council. The Council coordinates the Administration’s efforts in rural America by streamlining and improving the effectiveness of federal programs serving rural America; engage stakeholders, including farmers, ranchers, and local citizens, on issues and solutions in rural communities; and promoting and coordinating private-sector partnerships. With the signing of the Farm Bill in early February, President Obama direct-

ed the Council to lead a new “Made in Rural America” export and investment initiative, charged with bringing together Federal resources to help rural businesses and leaders take advantage of new investment opportunities and access new customers and markets abroad. The work of the White House Rural Council and USDA to bring investment to rural America is an example of how the Administration is creating smart partnerships with the private sector to better support Americans in all parts of the country. About USDA’s Rural Business Investment Program (RBIP) The Rural Business Investment Program promotes economic development in mostly rural areas by helping to meet the equity capital investment needs of smaller enterprises in such areas. USDA licenses newly formed for-profit investment fund entities as Rural Business Investment Companies (RBICs). RBICs use the equity raised in capitalizing their fund to make equity and equity-like investments mostly in smaller enterprises located primarily in rural areas. About the Far m Credit System For nearly a century, Farm Credit has been a national provider of credit and related services to rural America through its cooperative network of customer-owned lending institutions. Farm Credit provides more than $200 billion in loans and leases to farmers, ranchers, rural homeowners, aquatic producers, timber harvesters,

ho. Ashley Furniture and Sunny Designs can also be found on the showroom floor. The Artisans Mattress line, as well as Sealy mattresses, are also available at Northwest Furniture and Mattress. Complete delivery is available to furniture and mattress buyers, and they will deliver to almost anywhere, although there is a delivery charge. “We don’t just drop it at the curb, we take it in, put it together and remove old furniture if needed,” said Shaun. “I like this industry because you can sell honestly.” Both Mike and Shaun are active members of the La Grande Optimist Club. Shaun has been the president for almost four years. Mike joined in 1985 and has been involved ever since. Demeerleer closed the La Grande Furniture West after being in business for 24 years. More info call: 541-963-5440.

agribusinesses, and agricultural and rural utility cooperatives. For more information about the Farm Credit System, please visit www. farmcredit.com . About Advantage Capital Partners Advantage Capital Partners is a growth capital and small business finance firm focused on providing growth capital and other investments supporting state and local economic development efforts. The firm’s typical forms of investment include venture, expansion equity, mezzanine financing, senior and subordinated loans and government-guaranteed lending. With offices and partners in New Orleans, St. Louis, Chicago and other U.S. cities, Advantage Capital has invested more than $1.6 billion since 1992. The firm invests in small businesses across a wide range of industries that are located in geographic areas underserved by traditional sources of capital. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (866) 6329992 (Toll-free Customer Service), (800) 877-8339 (Local or Federal relay), (866) 377-8642 (Relay voice users).

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Oregon Mavericks - The Pedal Powered Talk Show

azine, the Oregonian, the Willamette Weekly and the Bicycle Times. “With our pedal-powered production studio we can go anywhere and do anything; from talking to notable authors on the side of Mount Hood to interviewing local indie bands on a barge in the Willamette River,” said Frankle. One outlet they have yet to break into is the popular television show Portlandia. At the 2014 Pedal Powered Talk Show Launch Party, the crew created a 3 foot tall letter with a plea to be included in an upcoming episode. Philip Ross and Boaz Frankle Be sure to “Like” the Pedal Powered Talk Show on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pedaltalkWhile bicycling around our Northeast Oregon the show . Find them online at www.pedaltalkshow.com Pedal Powered Talk Show visited flute maker Roger where you can see all the videos from NE Oregon. McGee, of Wind Dancer Flutes, Erl McLauglin of Boaz Frankel is a filmmaker, TV producer, Sunrise Iron , Alice Trindell of T & T Horsemanship world record holder, kazoo museum curator, half of a and Eastern Oregon Visitors Association, Arrowhead creative advertising team and a native Portlander. You Chocolates, Johnny Brose, of Bull Ridge Brew Pub, can learn more about him, and see some of his great and Peter Johnson, of Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort. Each of these interviews are available to view at interviews at www.stuffbyboaz.com he Pedal Powered Talk Show is, yes, you www.pedaltalkshow.com and be sure to The Pedal Powered Talk I was excited to finally guessed it, America’s only talk show built into a bicycle, notice the ‘Askamatic’, a Pedal PowShow bike was built by Phillip Ross and they just wrapped up their third season. Creator of ered Talk Show original introduced to bring the show to Eastern and James Nichols of Metrofiets Carthe Pedal Powered Talk Show, Boaz Frankle, along with the show while they were on location Oregon. It’s one of my favorite go Bikes. The bike was built by hand his crew, recently spent some time in Northeast Orein Northeast Oregon. parts of the state and there’s from aircraft grade steel. The desk gon filming and visiting with some famous, and not so “While I was at the Goverwas created by Troy Susan, of Bamfamous locals. nor’s Conference on Tourism I met so much to see out there. boo Craftsman. The wheels were cus “The Pedal Powered Talk Show crew and I Alice Trindell,” said Frankle. “She said tom made by Jude Kirstein, of Sugar loved our time out east. One morning we were taking we just had to come east, so we did. I Boaz Frankle Wheel Works. The bike is eight feet in breathtaking views of canyons, then a few hours lat- was excited to finally bring the show long and weighs about seventy-five er we were getting a personal tour of one of Oregon’s to Eastern Oregon. It’s one of my pounds. Construction of the bike was funded by Keen largest tractor collections, and the next morning we favorite parts of the state and there’s so much to see Footwear. were sampling some of the best truffles I’ve ever had. out there.” “Hopefully we can pedal to other parts of the Your corner of the state is full of so many amazing Now in their third season, the Pedal Powered surprises. We all want to come back soon,” said Franstate as well, and bring attention to the many unique Talk Show has been featured on AM Northwest, USA kle. Today, KGW and KPTV. They have been in 1859 Mag- places, and people of Oregon,” said Frankle.

Now in their third season, the Pedal Powered Talk Show takes a trip through Northeast Oregon

Kitzhaber: “Oregon’s Council Supports Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Economic Recovery Center (EOTEC) Site Plan T is on Track” 11 straight months of job growth show good progress the right direction

(Salem, OR June 17, 2014) — Governor Kitzhaber today released the following statement on the Oregon Employment Department’s latest numbers for the state labor market. The Department announced that Oregon’s unemployment rate was holding steady at 6.9 percent and that the state gained 4,200 jobs in May and 6,200 in April. Oregon’s economy continued to grow in May, with gains in industries such as construction, leisure and hospitality, and health care. “Oregon’s economic recovery continues, with 11 straight months of job gains. Our unemployment rate reflects more people re-entering the labor market. While today’s news is good, we have more to do to ensure that all Oregonians, regardless of their zip code, have an equal opportunity for economic prosperity.”

the Hermiston School District to accom he Hermiston City Council modate growth at the current High School unanimously supported the proposed site and avoid the higher costs of building a plan for the Eastern Oregon Trade and second High School. Event Center (EOTEC). The support “This is the most win, came after the Umatilla Coun“This is the win, win deal I’ve ever seen in my ty Commissioners issued their most win, win, life,” said City Councilor George support earlier in the day. win deal I’ve ever Anderson about moving the Site plans are availfairgrounds out of downtown seen in my life,” Hermiston to the EOTEC site able on the City of Hermiston website at www.hermiston.or.us/ south of the Hermiston Airport. eotec. George Anderson The EOTEC Authority The site plan was has set May, 2016 as the goal for presented to the public for comments at completion of phase one of construction, meetings in Hermiston, Milton-Freewater, in time for the 2016 Umatilla County Fair. and Pendleton earlier in the month. The Construction is planned to begin new plan will result in an event space for on the EOTEC in late 2014, and is exthe Umatilla County Fair and Farm City Pro pected to take approximately one year to Rodeo which is twice the size of the current complete, according to John Frew, President facility in downtown Hermiston. of Frew Development Group who is acting The land where the current fairas project manager for the development. grounds sits has already been purchased by

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Beyond Northeast Oregon A Rambling Wanderer in Seattle

sk any of my kids and they will tell you Seattle is my favorite city to visit. I love the sights, the signs, the streets, the seafood market, (not the seafood….I’m not a fan….but I still love the market), even the word Seattle causes my traveling blood to race faster through my veins. For our 20th anniversary my husband took me to Seattle where we spent three glorious days being typical tourists. We walked for miles each day, and were happy to get back to the Silver Cloud Stadium Hotel each evening so we could soak in the rooftop Jacuzzi and take a swim in their roof top pool, with views of the Puget Sound ship yard, and the city of Seattle. As always, when we travel, we know we only have a few days to take in all the sights, so we spend a lot of time rushing, walking fast, driving fast, eating fast, only to fall exhausted into bed each night. Looking back on our trip I wish we would have spent less time rushing, and more time listening to some of the street performers that dot the Seattle landscape. We passed a saxophone player, a piano player, bands of three and four, with instruments I don’t know the names of. Yes,

next time I will stop and enjoy these talented people a bit longer. The Silver Cloud Stadium Hotel took very good care of us while we were there, and even gave us a free upgrade on our room for our anniversary. They provided valet parking, and a free shuttle to downtown, which is a great service to take advantage of since trying to find parking in Seattle is where the term “road rage” just might have originated from. The drivers are knowledgeable about Seattle and are friendly and courteous. Jimmy’s on First is a first class restaurant located on the street level of the Silver Cloud. We enjoyed a glass of wine and took a few moments to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. As tourists we rode The Big Wheel, went up the Space Needle, and visited Pacific Science Center, which I recommend if you have kids with you. We went on an Argosy Tour Harbor Cruise. We had so much fun on our harbor tour we decided to venture out into the sound one more time and took a ferry to Bainbridge Island where we had dinner. Our meal was fabulous, and we were thankful for the walk back to the ferry, as we ate more than we should have. Even the quarter mile sprint we had to do, so we didn’t have to swim back to Seattle was good. Again, Pike’s Market, founded in 1930, is an absolute must see if you are in Seattle, a place where loud men find it fun to entertain the crowd by throwing fresh salmon back and forth between each other. Two of our new-found favorites are The Pike Pub & Brewery and The Lodge Sports Grille, both were fabulous places to eat and we will most definitely return. For more information on all of the places I have mentioned please visit www.neobn.com for clickable links.

WC Construction Continued From Page 1

a couple trucks, and a one stall garage, to a new office facility in Elgin, and a satellite office in Richland, Washington, and they now have more than 30 employees. For seven years the company was located in the Sommers Building in Elgin, a building they bought and remodeled specifically for their office space, then in 2002 they built and moved into the building they are currently in, which is located in Elgin. The commercial portfolio of WC Construction includes many projects the two men can be proud of, including Interpath Laboratories, and The Pendleton Round-Up Centennial Grandstands remodel, both

state of the art facilities. Other notable projects include Community Bank at College Place, Oregon Trail Electric Co-op in La Grande, and the Imbler Elementary School. Current projects include Brookside Village & Rose Court Apartments in Phoenix, Oregon; Rockwood Station Apartments in Gresham, Morrow County Admin building, Joseph classroom addition/multipurpose gym and the USDA building in Pendleton. The future looks bright for WC Construction as they look toward work with projects throughout the Pacific Northewest. Yes the future looks bright. “If you believe in it enough it will happen,” said Wiles.

Wind Turbine

Continued From Page 1 renewable energy generation equal a building’s energy needs over one year. Over the last decade, Tamástslikt —a nonprofit interpretive center and museum located on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation in Eastern Oregon — has implemented dramatic energy-saving improvements that have reduced electricity and natural gas usage by 63 percent and 76 percent, respectively, and saved nearly $750,000 in energy costs to date. “Our approach has always been to do energy conservation first, then implement renewable energy projects,” said Jess Nowland, assistant facilities manager, Tamástslikt. “Reduce the use, renew the rest.” The new turbine — the first of its kind in Oregon and the only wind turbine on a reservation in the Pacific Northwest — is expected to produce more than 94,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, or about 20 percent of the green building’s already diminished electricity demand. Tamástslikt estimates that this will add up to approximately $480,000 in energy savings over 30 years. The wind turbine was made possible by a $170,992 cash incentive from Energy Trust of Oregon and up to $257,372 through a funding award from customers of Pacific Power’s Blue SkySM renewable energy program. About 51,000 Pacific Power customers currently participate in the voluntary Blue Sky program across Oregon, Washington and California. “The project sets a great example for the community by making a visible commitment to renewable energy, increasing awareness about the region’s developing wind resource and reducing Tamástslikt’s operating costs,” said Bill Clemens, regional community manager, Pacific Power. “This will be one of the first things visitors will see when they come from the east. It’s a great compliment to the community and our Blue Sky customers, who helped make it possible.” Ceremony guests viewed a demonstration of the turbine’s control panel from the electrician who installed the turbine, Energy Trust trade ally Jonathan Lewis of Hire Electric, and were among the first to see the new energy information kiosk displaying real-time wind turbine generation. The turbine is a valuable educational tool for Tamástslikt visitors, especially for the school children who often visit to learn about tribal culture and values. “By harnessing wind energy, the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla continuetheir investment and commitment to conservation and sustainability,” said Thad Roth, renewable energy sector lead, Energy Trust. “We are proud to a part of the team, offering incentives, technical assistance and connections to local contractors, to support the vision of a net-zero facility meeting the needs of tribal members and visitors.”

Business Briefs Form Business Briefs are limited to 40 words, and will be placed in the paper as space allows, but will be posted on Facebook at www.facebook.com/neorbn. For guaranteed placement in the Business Briefs section send $20 to Northeast Oregon Business News at PO Box 295, Elgin, Oregon 97827. For questions please email lorikimbel@neobn.com.

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Pendleton Grain Growers, Inc. Restructures for Stronger Member Focus Pendleton Grain Growers, Inc. looks to return the agricultural cooperative to core business units with an outlook of profitability PENDLETON, Ore., (May 2, 2014) Member-owned agricultural marketing and supply cooperative, Pendleton Grain Growers, Inc.(PGG®) will be restructuring multiple business units to return the organizations focus to the needs of the members. Restructuring will include exit strategies for the AG Supply Retail division along with the Pendleton Automotive Service Center in addition to reducing internal costs and maximizing efficiencies.

The necessary, but difficult decisions were made by the cooperatives board of directors following the development of a business plan that supports the long-range goals of the board. These changes in the business model come from significant research of the local economy and the current marketplace. Targeting the core areas of business: Grain, Seed, Energy, Agronomy and Fleet will allow for the cooperative to improve operations while growing the earnings profile. Restructuring the business units will allow PGG to focus on the areas of the cooperative most utilized by the membership. “These decisions have not come easy, as the board recognizes the vast impact that these changes

Cepheid by Dave Sandersfeld

“CEPHEID” is a modern scientific term describing “any class of stars whose lights varies in brightness in sporadic, seasonal or regulars periods”; but it is also a new prospective for a sustainable, future, Rural Oregon economic development strategy looking forward into the Twenty-First Century.

Oregon used to be a logging state economy; but the future requires us to become many seasonal stars glowing (i.e. ski-touring & snowmobiles then biking, hiking & camping) at different times of year to re-float our new rural Oregon Economy. Our Oregon big city economies will float as part of the national economy sinks or swims. Many people dream of regaining Pioneer-like, major natural resource based industries, like timber Industry wages and careers back before 1970s; but the extremely profitable, ancestral Biologic legacy of standing huge Old Growth is now largely cut over. This timber industry is still looking, after decades, a for a wood-chip based product as lucrative as traditional 2x4 and plywood used to be when the American forests were not over cut. Now prime 2 by 4s come from un-developed areas of Russia and other forested region and overseas to feed a world timber hungry market. The famous American timber ship has come and gone. They author was a materials engineering technician or core drill manager finding quarries for Forest timber sales on Ochoco National Forest in the latter 1970s and the Forest Supervisor surprisingly asked us professionals to suggest a future economic base for rural Oregon as in 1977 largely all the easily accessed Huge, Prime, “Old growth” was all processed all across Eastern Oregon. Historically, Oregon has had an incredibly diverse, naturally a totally, Number 1 -Timber Based Economy since gold was discovered in California in 1848. The State of Oregon was blessed with had huge treasures of un-cut ancients forests covering endless mountains and easily access-able and These Old-Growth trees could be quickly removed to lumber mills to sale and feed the growing need for lumber all across the Western USA and now the world. Ironically, independently, the New York-based United Nations in the 1950s started to look for creative ways for rural un-developed nations around the world to share in the increasing family incomes found in the major industrial nations of the USA and Europe. They figured they could sell remote rural family’s unique products like coffee beans and gems to wealthy rural customer; and also offer unique “escapes” from the hum-drum of urban living –to help share the world wealth! Every

will bring to the agricultural and community members throughout the region,” said Tim Hawkins, Board Chairman. “As we work through these changes, we are dedicated to providing support to those affected, while still being focused on delivering value to the membership today and in the future.” Pendleton Grain Growers, Inc. is a member-owned agricultural cooperative proudly rooted in its history of serving the communities of eastern Oregon and Washington. Since it’s founding over 80 years ago, PGG has continually worked to deliver our members and communities a superior network of agricultural products and services. Together, PGG will provide its members and the communities the resources to cultivate the future.

Contact Dave At fathernature2@gmail.com

human should be able to nurture their family’s future well-being – urban and rural! Many used to say things like eco-tourism does not provide a living wages; but that has been disproven over decades of proven successes. Aruba or Bahama resorts need college-educated professionals just like the old model of timber baron or sugar cane industry empires once did. Next time you see a TV commercial promoting visit Belize or where ever, you now know this United Nation’s rural development science is working for rural people all around the world. Our, here in NE Oregon, problem is trying to share these proven techniques with our rural Oregonian Families; so they too can share in the ever increasing wealth found in our major world cities. The first seminar the author attended was clear back in 1994 titled “Linking tourism, the environment, and sustainablity.” The reason for this week-long seminar or symposium was simple: “Tourism is an industry of global significance. It is one of the World’s largest industries and it has becomes more attractive as a relatively quick generator of foreign exchange or income to local rural areas. While tourism development is a major agenda item for many Third World countries, only recently has it achieved the same degree of attention in the United States.” (1994!) As an “Applied Ecology” business columnist, I welcome person emails explaining your particular problems expanding you annual family incomes and we can use these comment as HOW TO examples later on - with your permission. We Oregonians do not have ancient Pharaohs pyramids or Buddhist temples to show the world; but we have something better –the real living American west! The places and people of the Old Oregon Trail and characters created living close to the primeval Wilderness! Rural NE Oregonians let us start building a better rural economy role model for the USA and make it so we can better takes care of our family futures together. It is the columnist’s fondest hope we can join with the various independent local tribes in this modern form sharing information and talents in this new modern form of a “potlatch” or “trapper’s rendezvous” over time. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potlatch A potlatch is a gift-giving feast practiced by indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast of Canada and the United States,[1] among whom it is traditionally the primary economic system…. The word comes from the Chinook Jargon, meaning “to give away” or “a gift”. Dave Sandersfeld Father Nature Consulting since 1990s 1991 Montana client’s claimed me to be “Father Nature” “You must be Father Nature, because Mother Nature helps you succeed!

FOREST PLAN

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

The Proposed Revised Land Management Plan (commonly known as a Forest Plan) and Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) covers the Malheur, Umatilla, Wallowa-Whitman National Forests, and a portion of the Ochoco National Forest (Blue Mountains National Forests). A Forest Plan is a document that guides land management decisions (project or site-specific level planning) for a period of about 15 years. The Forest Plan is strategic in nature and does not approve projects or actions on National Forest System (NFS) lands; for example it does not close specific roads, trails, or areas – further NEPA and public engagement is required on these types of site-specific level decisions. Interested parties may submit comments in a variety of ways. The Forest Service encourages the public to use the electronic system for submitting comments, which is available at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/ BlueMountainForestPlanRevisionComments. Comments may also be submitted in writing to: Blue Mountain Plan Revision Team, P.O. Box 907, Baker City, OR, 97814 or faxed to 541-523-6392. Comments received, including names and addresses of those who comment, will become part of the project record and are available for public review. It is the responsibility of the persons providing comments to submit them by the close of the comment period (August 15, 2014) and ensure their comments have been received. The DEIS and Proposed Revised Forest Plan can be downloaded from the Blue Mountains Forest Plan Revision website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/BlueMtnsPlanRevision. Printed copies and/or compact discs (CDs) are available upon request by emailing: bluemtnplanrevision@ fs.fed.us, or by calling 541-523-1302 or 541-523-1246; and also available to read at

All lasting business is built on friendship. Alfred A. Montapert

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Nor theast Oregon Calendar of Events

July 4 First Friday Art Walk Baker City 541-523-5369 www.crossroads-arts.org

Haines Days 4th of July Celebration Haines 541-856-3366 www.cityofhaines.org Halfway 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks Halfway 541-742-4222 www.hellscanyonchamber.com Huntington 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks Huntington 541-869-2529 www.visithuntingtonor.org Shake the Lake 4th of July Fireworks Wallowa Lake, Wallowa & Lostine 541-426-4622 Parade in Wallowa, Fireworks at Wallowa Lake and the Lostine Flea Market

July 11 - 12 Crazy Days Car Show La Grande 541-963-8588 www.timbercruiserscarclub. com

July 27 Powder River Music Review Concert Series Baker City 541-519-5653 www.bakercitybandstand.org

July 12 Fireman’s Breakfast at the Fire Museum La Grande 541-963-8588 www.unioncountychamber.org

July 30 - August 2 Union County Fair La Grande www.unioncountyfair.com

Funfest Hermiston 541-567-6151 www.facebook.com/hermistonfunfest July 12 - 13 Athena Caledonian Games Athena 541-566-3880 www.athencaledoniangames. org Oregon Lavender Festival Hermiston www.oregonlavenderfestival. org

August 1 First Friday Art Walk Baker City 541-523-5369 August 3 Powder River Music Review Concert Series Baker City 541-519-5653 August 5 - August 9 Umatilla County Fair Hermiton 541-567-6121 August 6 - August 9 Baker County Fair Baker City 541-523-7881

August 16 - August 17 Music in the Meadow Sumpter 541-894-2303 August 16 Cove Cherry Festival 541-568-4573 www.coveoregon.org August 17 Powder River Music Review Concert Series Baker City 541-519-5653 bakercitybandstand.org August 22 - October 25 National Geographic’s Greatest Photographers of the American West Pendleton 541-966-9748 tamastslikt.org

August 30 Snake River Car Show Huntington 541-869-2529 visithuntingtonor.org August 30 - August 31 Labor Day Weekend Wagon Encampment Baker City 541-523-1843 blm.gov/or/oregontrail August 30 - September 1 Baker County Fair and Panhandle Rodeo Halfway 541-742-4222 halfwayfairandrodeo.com August 31 Powder River Music Review Concert Series Baker City 541-519-5653 bakercitybandstand.org

August 23 Baker City Memory Cruise Baker City 541-519-5963 facebook.com/bakercitymemorycruise

September 5 First Friday Art Walk Baker City 541-523-5369 crossroads-arts.org

August 23 Durkee Steak Feed Baker City 541-877-2348

September 5 - 7 34th Annual Hells Canyon Mule Days Enterprise 541-426-3271 hellscanyonmuledays.com

July 4 - 5 Haines Stampede Rodeo Haines 541-523-7269 www.hainesstampede.com

July 13 Powder River Music Review Concert Series Baker City 541-519-5653 www.bakercitybandstand.org

July 4 - 7 Sumpter Flea Market Sumpter 541-894-2314 www.historicsumpter.com

July 18 - 19 Baker City Bronc and Bull Riding Baker City 541-519-4680

July 6 Powder River Music Review Concert Series Baker City 541-519-5653 www.bakercitybandstand.org

July 18 - 20 Miner’s Jubilee Baker City 800-523-1235 www.visitbaker.com

August 9 Haines Stamepede Demolition Derby Baker City 541-523-7269

July 10 - 13 Elgin Stampede Rodeo Elgin 541-963-2136 www.elginstampede.com

July 18 - 20 24th Annual Tamkaliks Celebration and Pow Wow Wallowa 541-886-3101 www.wallowanezperce.org

August 10 Powder River Music Review Concert Series Baker City 541-519-5653

Augut 24 Powder River Music Review Concert Series Baker City 541-519-5653 bakercitybandstand.org

July 10 - 14 Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally Baker City 541-519-2049 www.hellscanyonrally.com

July 20 Powder River Music Review Concert Series Baker City 541-519-5653 www.bakercitybandstand.org

August 14 - August 17 We Like ‘Em Short Film Festival Baker City 541-523-5439

August 29 - September 1 Sumpter Flea Market Sumpter 541-894-2314 historicsumpter.com

September 20 The Great Salt Lick Art Auction Baker City 541-519-2736 saltlickcity.com

July 11 - 12 Crazy Days La Grande www.lagrandemainstreet.org

July 26 Huckleberry Festival North Powder 541-963-8588

August 15 - 17 Muddy Frogwater Country Classic Festival Milton-Freewater 541-988-5563

August 30 6th Annual Juniper Jam Enterprise 541-426-3390 juniperjam.com

September 25 - 28 Alpenfest In The Wallowas Joseph and Wallowa Lake 541-432-0209 oregonalpenfest.com

August 8 - 9 18th Annual Bronze Blues & Brews Joseph 541-432-1015 August 9 Grassroots Festival Union 541-786-1492

August 23 Wheatstock Music Festival Helix 541-457-2246 wheatstock.org August 23 - 24 7th Annual Celtic Festival La Grande 541-975-3952 neoregoncelts.com

September 6 Pine Fest Music Fetival Halfway 541-742-6420 pinefest.org September 10 - 13 104th Annual Pendleton Round-Up Pendleton 800-457-6336 pendletonroundup.com September 20 Grande Ronde Studio Tour La Grande 541-624-2800 artcenterlagrande.org

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Log and Lumber Exports Increase 20 Percent in 2013

West coast log and lumber exports increased by 20 percent in 2013 Chinese demand fueled growth, year-end analysis finds PORTLAND, Ore. February 21, 2014—Log and lumber exports from Washington, Oregon, northern California, and Alaska increased by 20 percent in volume in 2013 compared to 2012, the U.S. Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest Research Station reported today. The total value of these exports also jumped, by nearly 37 percent for log exports and by 23 percent for lumber exports. “Demand from China is the major reason for the increase

in west coast log and lumber exports we saw in 2013,” said Xiaoping Zhou, a research economist with the station who conducted the analysis and compiled the data. “However, other Asian countries, like Japan, also increased their wood product imports from the west coast as well as from the remainder of the United States.” Compared to 2012, China increased its imports of west coast logs by 48 percent and of west coast lumber by 45 percent in 2013. Last year, total U.S. log and lumber exports to the country increased by more than 35 percent. Other 2013 year-end highlights: • Total U.S. log exports in 2013 increased by over 19 percent in volume compared to 2012, while the value increased by more than 25 percent; • Total U.S. lumber exports in 2013 increased about 12 percent in volume compared to 2012, while the value increased by 18 percent;

$47 Million Grant for Offshore Wind Energy Development Project will be first off the shore of U.S. west coast

(Salem, OR) — Governor Kitzhaber applauded yesterday’s announcement from the U.S. Department of Energy that it had selected Oregon as one of three demonstration projects receiving funding for offshore wind energy development. The Oregon project, led by Principle Power and slated for installation approximately 18 miles off the coast of Coos Bay, will be eligible for up to $47 million over the next four years. “Yesterday’s announcement is an important milestone for ocean renewable energy, and also the next big leap for cutting-edge innovation that can help us meet our energy and carbon reduction goals,” said Governor Kitzhaber. “This kind of commitment from our federal, private sector, and local partners is what it takes to advance an energy future that supports a healthy economy and good jobs.” The Principle Power project will install five direct-drive wind turbines off the coast of Coos Bay. The project, which will be the first

offshore wind facility on the U.S. west coast, is intended to show the potential of deep-water wind energy projects. Earlier this year, the Governor joined with Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell and Bureau of Ocean Energy Management Director Tommy P. Beaudreau to announce the potential project. Yesterday’s announcement of funds provides more certainty for the 30-megawatt pilot project and the future of wind energy development in deep waters off the shore of Oregon. The Governor emphasized the importance of siting and developing wind energy in a responsible manner. “As we develop domestic energy sources, we need to ensure that projects include local jobs, engage existing users of marine resources, and strengthen Oregon’s legacy of environmental stewardship.” The west coast holds an offshore capability of more than 800 gigawatts of wind energy potential, according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, which is equivalent to more than three-quarters of the nation’s entire power generation capacity. Total U.S. deepwater wind energy resource potential is estimated to be nearly 2,000 gigawatts.

• West coast lumber exports in 2013 represented 31 percent of the total U.S. lumber export in volume, compared to less than 29 percent in 2012; • West coast log exports in 2013 represented 60 percent of the total U.S. log export in volume, less than a 1-percent increase from the 2012 level, while the value share increased to 59 percent, compared to 54 percent in 2012. • At west coast ports, 63 percent of outgoing logs and 40 percent of outgoing lumber were destined for China in 2013, compared to 58 percent of logs and 33 percent of lumber in 2012. Fourth Quarter 2013 Highlights West coast log exports decreased by nearly 11 percent to 459 million board feet in the fourth quarter of 2013, compared to the previous quarter, and totaled $348 million. Lumber exports increased slightly, by 4 percent in volume, and totaled 291 million board feet, worth $207 million. China imported 297 million board feet of west coast logs, a decrease of 9 percent compared to the third quarter of 2013, and 131 million board feet of west coast lumber, a 13-percent increase. Zhou compiled the statistics using data from the U.S. International Trade Commission and Production, Prices, Employment, and Trade in Northwest Forest Industries, an annual station publication that provides current information on the region’s lumber and plywood production as well as employment in forest industries. The 2012 report is available online at http://www.treesearch.fs.fed.us/pubs/45432. The Pacific Northwest Research Station—headquartered in Portland, Ore.—generates and communicates scientific knowledge that helps people make informed choices about natural resources and the environment. The station has 11 laboratories and centers located in Alaska, Washington, and Oregon and about 400 employees. Learn more online at http://www.fs.fed.us/pnw. The Pacific Northwest Research Station—headquartered in Portland, Ore.—generates and communicates scientific knowledge that helps people make informed choices about natural resources and the environment. The station has 11 laboratories and centers located in Alaska, Washington, and Oregon and about 400 employees.

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