Pointing to networking opportunities and the advantage of having a unified voice for the business community, three Eugene Chamber members share what led them to join the Chamber and the value of membership.
Pointing to networking opportunities and the advantage of having a unified voice for the business community, three Eugene Chamber members share what led them to join the Chamber and the value of membership.
Pointing to networking opportunities and the advantage of having a unified voice for the business community, three Eugene Chamber members share what led them to join the Chamber and the value of membership.
THE EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: CElEBRATiNGPROMOTiNGiNFORMiNG BUsiNEss
D E C E M B E R
2 0 1 1 /
J A N U A R Y
2 0 1 2 VOlUME 10, issUE 6 UsA $3.95 CANADA $6.95 ANNUAL REPORT How business leaders rate the Chambers performance FEATURES 6 Chamber Business of the Year Levi Strauss & Co. share the values that helped them expand their business and win their Emerald Award. 9 How Rani Gee went from sales associate to business owner, and how the Chamber helped her along the way. 17 A look at the accomplishments from the Regional Prosperity Initative.
COLUMNS/ DEPARTMENTS 4 YOUR CHAMBER WORKiNG FOR YOU
20 BUsiNEss NEWs ADVERTISER INDEX 22 Attic Media 21 Bell + Funk 21 BRING Recycling 19 Cascade Health Solutions 15 Century Bank 24 Chambers Productions 13 Essig Entertainment 27 Eugene Airport 16 Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce 20 Evergreen Roofng 25 EWEB 4 Hershner Hunter LLP 8 Home Federal Bank 2 Isler CPA 28 Kernutt Stokes Brandt 15 McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center 2 Pacifc Continental Bank 7 PacifcSource Health Plans 14 Sandler Training 20 Siuslaw Bank 22 Summit Bank 23 SYTE Consulting 16 TechnaPrint Publisher David Hauser, CCE Editor Susan G. Miller, Director of Publications & Information Systems Eugene Chamber Executive Committee Marvin ReVoal, Chair Pacifc Beneft Planners Sheryl Balthrop, Chair-Elect Gaydos, Churnside & Balthrop PC Ann Marie Mehlum, Vice Chair Summit Bank Eric Forrest, Past Chair Pepsi Cola Bottling of Eugene Cathy Worthington, Treasurer Worthington Business Services Advertising Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce 541.484.1314 Design/Layout Asbury Design 541.344.1633 Content Editor Tracy Ilene Miller Printing TechnaPrint, Inc. 541.344.4062 Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce 1401 Willamette St. Eugene, OR 97401 541.484.1314 Open for Business: A publication of the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce (USPS- 978-480). Open for Business is published bimonthly by the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce in February, April, June, August, October and December. Circulation: 4,700. Open For Business 2011 The subscription price is $25, included in membership. Periodicals Postage Paid at Eugene, OR. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 1107, Eugene, OR 97440-1107 FOR BUSINESS THE EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: CElEBRATiNGPROMOTiNGiNFORMiNG BUsiNEss D E C E M B E R 20 11/ JA N U A R Y 20 12 VOlUME 10, issUE 6 UsA $3.95 CANADA $6.95 ANNUAL REPORT Howbusiness leaders rate the Chambers performance Having gone from sales associate to business owner, Rani Gee has found the Chamber to be great partner. Page 9. COVER STORY >> 10 See how four longtime members rated the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerces performance for the past year. Pictured: Barbara Wirtz, president of Wirtz Consulting; Mark Johnson, president of the Western Oregon Region of Home Federal Bank; Chris Meeker, president of the Imagine Group Photography by Loveall Photo www.loveallphoto.com Art direction and design by Asbury Design www.asburydesign.net contents DE CE MB E R 2 01 1 /J ANUARY 2 01 2 Eugene Chamber Newsletter ~ 7.375 X 4.8125 ~ 4C ~ December 2011 Insertion ~ Charley Snellings EUGENE / SPRI NGFIELD PORTLAND / VANCOUVER SEATTLE / BELLEVUE / TACOMA THERIGHTBANK.COM 541-686-8685 It only makes sense that the business partners you deal with day in and day out, like Pacic Continental banker Charley Snellings, are uent in the language of your business. At Pacic Continental, our bankers not only speak small business with the agility of a CFO, theyre experts in delivering the nancial services you need, when you need them on your terms. Working Capital Remote Deposi t Payroll LLC Banking on Your Terms Charley Snellings, Asst. V.P. Relationship Banking Officer Greater Eugene PAC-029_Snellings_EugChamber_4C-7.375X4.1825_Dec2011.indd 1 10/13/11 8:10 PM DECEMBER 2 01 1 /J ANUARY 2 01 2 | OPEN FOR BUS I NESS 5 541-686-8511 www.hershnerhunter.com The answer is one. Or as many of us as you need to meet your objectives. At Hershner Hunter you will have direct, effcient access to an individual attorney in one of our many specialized practice areas orif and when you need itdraw on the breadth and depth of the resources of one of the areas largest and most respected business law frms. Small start-up? Growing area employer? Multi-national corporation? Whatever your needs, large or small, we practice law the way you do business: with the big picture in mind and an eye to the bottom line. Keep going and keep growing. And leave your legal issues to us. to achieve your goals? How many lawyers does it take Smart-ups visits the new Broadway Commerce Center Y OU R C H A MB E R WOR K I NG F OR Y OU Celebrating women leaders and innovators Florist and longtime owner of Dandelions Flowers & Gifts, Shirley Lyons, was named the 2011 Woman Business Leader of the Year. The award was created by the Eugene Chamber four years ago to honor successful women business leaders in the community for their business success, career achievements and community contributions. Businesses led by women are and will continue to have a noticeable impact on the local economy and the Chamber believes in the importance of supporting them. Nationwide, female entrepreneurs are starting businesses at twice the rate of men and 40% of all businesses are now owned by women across the country. The Women Business Leader of the Year ceremony helps to highlight the successes of these great female innovators here at home. Chamber advances award-winning economic development effort The Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce was honored at the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce (OSCC) 2011 annual meeting. The Chambers Regional Prosperity Initiative economic development program was selected for the 2011 OSCC Achievement Award. The award recognizes a program or initiative that elevates the role of the Chamber in their community, highlighting innovation, and impact in the community, collaboration and leadership. Additionally, the Chambers recently redesigned website and Open for Business magazine were recognized as best in their class. Eugene Chamber President Dave Hauser received the Chambers award from Julie Miller, Executive Director of the Bandon Chamber of Commerce and OSCC Immediate Past Chair. Christian Fox of Pacifc Real Estate Services shows-off PIVOT Architectures beautiful new space in the Broadway Commerce Center. Smart-Ups Pub Talks are designed to support early stage companies through education and networking opportunities. Smart-Ups November Pub Talk was held at the new Broadway Commerce Center in downtown Eugene. The developer of the BCC, Beam Development, is a progressive development and management real estate company committed to developing fexible, affordable working spaces. Smart-Ups attendees heard from an expert panel that provided help on securing the right space for new businesses. Attendees also toured the new facility and heard about the exciting startups that will operate at the BCC. Shirley Lyons, Woman Business Leader of the Year and owner of Dandelions Flowers & Gifts, began her career in 1974 at the Saturday Market and has grown her company into one of the top frms in the country. 6 OPEN FOR BUS I NESS | EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE At PacifcSource, we dont think you should have to compromise when it comes to your companys health plan. Thats why we offer quality health insurance thats also affordable, fexible plan options, and large provider networks that make it convenient to get care wherever you are. But we go beyond the basics, supporting our members when its time to quit smoking, shed extra pounds, or prepare for a baby. Were passionate about helping people get the care they need, and it shows. To learn more, call or visit our local offce, or go to StartWithAGoodPlan.com. 800. 624. 6052 Portl and Medford Eugene Bend
F ile N a m e : P S H P 5 2 0 1 - S T A R T W IT H -S T A T E -O R _ 8 .5 x 1 1
T itle : S T A R T W IT H A G O O D P L A N ...
C lie n t: P a c if c S o u rc e
P u b : 8 .5 x 1 1 A d s
J o b # : P S H P 5 2 0 1
T rim S iz e : 8 .5 0 x 1 1
A p p : In D e s ig n C S 5
B le e d S iz e : 8 .7 5 x 1 1 .2 5
C o lo rs : 4 c p
C lo s e D a te : 1 1 .2 3 .1 1 PSHP 5201 - START WITH-STATE-OR_8.5x11.indd 1 11/23/11 11:34 AM Values-driven Business of the Year Levis Strauss & Co. shows winning characteristics B US I NE S S OF T HE Y E A R By Tracy Miller When employees and visitors walk into Levi Strauss & Co. in Eugene, the writing is on the wall, and it says this: Driven to win Externally focused Innovative Global mindset Talent builder Teyre just not words on a wall, says Kimberly Dellinger, manager at Levi Strauss. We truly func- tion within those characteristics every day. For embodying those values and more, the lo- cal Levi Strauss & Co. earned itself a Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce Emerald Award for Business of the Year 2011. Te Emerald Awards honor and acknowledge to- days best-run companies, and Business of the Year recipients demonstrate strengths in the four areas of Growth, Community Caring, Environmental Values, and Innovation. In a show of incredible growth, the Levi Strauss & Co. service center in Eugene increased its em- ployee base by 42 percent in 2011. In addition, an internship program formed with University of Oregon students that taps students with profes- sional language profciency increased from two to 11 interns. Although Levi Strauss & Co. globally instituted Community Day in 2000, this year the Eugene location extended that day by a month, to all of May. Employees pledged more than 740 hours and donated $70,000. Tey joined in community activi- ties, including maintaining the grassroots garden at Food for Lane County, painting the playground at Guy Lee Elementary, and volunteering at an as- sisted living facility. As an environmental steward the facility has instituted a number of projects to reduce its en- vironmental footprint, including collecting more than 260 pounds of denim to turn into insulation and moving toward paperless business practices. And after forming an Employee Engagement team, employee satisfaction ratings on an annual survey skyrocketed from 78 percent to 92 percent. When you value your employees, that in turn makes them want to come in, show up every day and give their best, Dellinger says. Its those and other values that have earned Levi Strauss & Co. awards several times over. Kimberly Dellinger and Debbie Vander Bogart, Levis Strauss & Co. accepted the 2011 Business of the Year award at the Emerald Award ceremony in November. When you value your employees, that in turn makes them want to ... give their best. Kimberly Dellinger, manager at Levi Strauss & Co. EugeneArea Chamberof Commerce DECEMBER 2 01 1 /J ANUARY 2 01 2 | OPEN FOR BUS I NESS 9 By Stephanie Brathwaite Having gone from sales associate to business owner, Rani Gee has experienced nearly every facet of business and found that the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce has been a great partner to have along the way. Gee was frst introduced to the Eugene Chamber in 2008 through the Business After Hours program when she began work at a lo- cal information technology company. Te company was a Eugene Chamber member for many years and always encouraged its associates to participate in Chamber events. Gee was hooked and immediately began making meaningful business contacts with just a small investment of her time. Her participation in Chamber events increased when she decided to serve as a volunteer on both the Eugene Chambers Young Professionals Network (YPN) steering committee and the Membership Council as the chairperson. I enjoyed serving on the YPN steering committee in order to help plan the YPN events, explains Gee. But the one hour each month I continue to spend with the Membership Council is one of the best ROIs I receive in business. Gee fnds that the small group setting of the Membership Council helps her remain focused on her goals within the Chamber and gives her a window into the business community that she fnds invaluable. In 2009, Gee started her own small business, Oregon Serving & Bartending, and one of her frst action items was to join the Eugene Chamber. It was a no-brainer, she explains. I can say the annual investment is easily paid for by the hours Ive invoiced to Chamber members over the past two years in business. After two years, Oregon Serving & Bartending was operating at a comfortable rate and Gee turned to the real estate industry to fll extra hours. She joined Elite Realty Professionals in May as a real es- tate agent and immediately encouraged the principal broker to take the same step she had and become a Chamber member. I know the success that can be found at the Chamber, says Gee. When you invest in the Eugene Chamber, it invests in you through support, net- working and promotional opportunities, as well as its work to help strengthen the local economy. Successful partnership Chamber membership has helped Rani Gee in several business ventures S MA L L B US I NE S S S P OT L I GHT When not running her small business, Oregon Serving & Bartending, Rani Gee is a real estate agent with Elite Realty Professionals. EugeneArea Chamberof Commerce P H O T O B Y D A V ID L O V E A L L My Pizza. At Mezza Luna Pizzeria, in addition to selecting the nest ingredients and sharing the nal product, we take great pride in crafting unique names for our speciality pizzas. Whether its the Tuscan Sun, the Garden of Eatin or the Hot Mama, we strive to add a little extra attention to everything we do. When it comes to commercial banking, HomeFed does the same for us. Their attention to the details of banking allows us to focus on what we love most about our business. Call your local Home Federal Bank today! Eugene Downtown (541) 344-5424 Eugene Coburg Rd. (541) 345-9430 Eugene Santa Clara (541) 689-3313 Eugene West (541) 338-7650 Springeld Gateway (541) 741-8280 MyHomeFed.com My Passion. My HomeFed. Sandy Little & John Fitzgerald, Owners Mezza Luna Pizzeria DECEMBER 2 01 1 /J ANUARY 2 01 2 | OPEN FOR BUS I NESS 1 1 1 0 OPEN FOR BUS I NESS | EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE C OV E R S T OR Y By Lewis Taylor Photo by David Loveall In assessing its performance for 2011, the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce enlisted several of its valued con- stituents to provide letter grades in four key competencies that have been deemed most relevant to local businesses. Te graders were three business professionals who have followed the organizations work closely over the years. Together, they have a combined half-century of Chamber membership and represent a broad spectrum of interests. Tey are: n Mark Johnson, president of the Western Oregon Region of Home Federal Bank nChris Meeker, president of the Imagine Group nBarbara Wirtz, president of Wirtz Consulting Overall, the Chamber received high marks on its 2011 report card. Some of the areas where the organization scored well include: nIts customer service to members nTe array of networking opportunities available to members n Te ability to balance the needs of a politically and so- B + A B Making the Grade Three longtime Chamber members assess the organizations performance for the past year Chris Meeker, president of the Imagine Group; Mark Johnson, president of the Western Oregon Region of Home Federal Bank ; and Barbara Wirtz, president of Wirtz Consulting; rated the Chambers performance in four areas DECEMBER 2 01 1 /J ANUARY 2 01 2 | OPEN FOR BUS I NESS 1 3 1 2 OPEN FOR BUS I NESS | EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE cially diverse community. A few areas that could be improved upon, include: nPublicizing the Chambers political goals and accomplishments n Being more reactive to the immediate needs of members n Finding new ways to take advantage of the Chambers unique position at the hub of business activity. Most of the comments from the Cham- bers panel of graders were laudatory and insightful. Even when being critical of the organizations performance, the panel ex- pressed its admiration for the tough job the Chamber has. 1. Creating a Strong Local Economy Average grade: B+ With the recent loss of thousands of lo- cal jobs and unemployment rates nearing double digits, the Chamber stepped up its eforts to enhance the regions success in 2011. In addition to creating the Women Business Leaders and the Latino Business Network to support two areas of growth, the Chamber received the generous support of the Chambers Family Foundation and lo- cal business leaders who intend to allocate nearly $400,000 to economic development through the Regional Prosperity Initiative (RPI). Meeker, who has been involved in the Chambers angel investing initiatives, found many reasons to be happy about the organizations eforts in this category. I was so impressed that the Chambers Family Foundation chose to invest money in the local community, he said. Its great that they are wanting to make a stronger community and one of the ways to do that is through the creation of jobs. Johnson also praised the RPI, calling it an ambitious and creative approach to fueling economic growth. He did raise one point of caution, however. Im concerned that if not done right the concept of clustering can backfreon a com- munity, he said. But Im confdent that they are taking the right approach. Wirtz, too, said the RPI was a step in the right direction, allowing small growth in a lot of areas that will, in the long run, have greater payof. She cautioned that there was no quick fx for the ailing economy. I think each of us as a member whether we are entrepreneurs, large or small businesses must fgure out how to improve our own economic condition even in the slightest way so that we can create a cumulative efect for our overall economy, she said. Promoting the Community Average grade: B+ Recognizing the important role a vibrant downtown can play in fueling new economic development opportunities, the Chamber mounted a year-long advocacy campaign that led to the extension of the Downtown Urban Renewal District and helped support the more than $82 million in downtown projects that are currently underway. Te Chamber also threw its support behind the arts as a founding partner of the Arts and Business Alliance and worked with Travel Lane County to secure $500,000 in air ser- vice grants. Wirtz zeroed in on the Leadership Eu- gene Springfeld program as a good example of the Chamber working to connect busi- ness leaders with volunteerism in a way that serves to improve the economy. She singled out the upcoming Olympic Trials as an area where the Chamber could work with busi- nesses to promote the community, pointing to the fact that many visitors to the last Trials didnt venture beyond the university area. Te Chamber did a good job the frst time and I think will do an even better job the second time, Wirtz said. Making it easy for people to move between the track and other areas of town would help more business around town beneft from the infux of visitors. Johnson singled out the Chambers ef- forts to make the community a great place to live and do business. Providing Business Building Opportunities Average grade: A Te Chamber continued its focus on networking in 2011, ofering more than 80 events and opportunities, including: the Greeters, who gather each week for presen- tations and networking fun; the Chamber Ambassadors, who conduct ribbon cuttings, grand openings and other ceremonies; and the popular Business After Hours mixers, which regularly draw more than 250 busi- ness people. Being a company that is relationship- focused, we fnd a tremendous value in the Chambers successful networking opportu- nities, Johnson said. Meeker mentioned the Business-to- Business Expo as a particularly successful initiative. Teres a great amount of learning that happens just by being out of your own workplace and speaking with others in an easygoing environment, Meeker said. Wirtz explained how the Chambers networking opportunities function on two diferent levels: one for the general mem- bership (e.g., Business-to-Business Expo) and the other for special interest groups The Grades 1. Creating a Strong Local Economy 2. Promoting the Community 3. Providing Business Building Opportunities 4. Representing the Interests of Business with Government 1 2 3 4 Mark Johnson A B+ A B+ Chris Meeker B+ A A * Barbara Wirtz B B A B Average B+ B+ A B Overall = B+ *Does not feel informed enough to assess a grade. Being a company that is relationship- focused, we fnd a tremendous value in the Chambers successful networking opportunities. Mark Johnson president of the Western Oregon Region of Home Federal Bank The comments Heres what the Chambers four graders had to say when asked to reward the organizations efforts in areas outside the realm of its four key competencies: The Chamber staff is excellent: They are competent, caring and cheerful. In the 24 years Ive been a member, I cant think of one time when they didnt bend over backwards to be helpful. Hats off to the Chamber staff! Barbara Wirtz Our community is truly blessed to have Dave Hauser as its Chamber executive. His professionalism and leadership and sense of humor make him a perfect ft. I think we have an outstanding Chamber. Mark Johnson The way that the Chamber staff brings businesses together and creates that place for a community of business people is really exemplary Everyone is working to champion business success in the community. Thats a great feeling and a great group of supporters there at the Chamber. Chris Meeker Call SCott ESSig for a baCkStagE tour 541.954.1721 Need a venue for your holiday event? www.studio5eugene.com 1 4 OPEN FOR BUS I NESS | EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (e.g., Women Business Leaders). It might be interesting for the Chamber to combine these subgroups occasionally for additional networking opportunities, she suggested. Te Young Professionals Net- work, the Latino Business Network and the Women Business Leaders subgroups could all learn from and support each other. Representing the Interests of Business with Government Average grade: B Te Chambers infuential 25-member Local Government Afairs Council (LGAC) continued to meet on a weekly basis to ad- dress public policy issues that afect local businesses. Te council notched numerous achievements in 2011, including continu- ing Eugenes Downtown Public Safety Zone, helping to defeat a poorly crafted local per- sonal income tax measure and successfully supporting a fair and open redistricting plan for the City of Eugene. Johnson expressed his appreciation for the important work the council took on. Tat said, he felt the Chamber could be better at communicating the organizations successes to members. Tey appear to be doing great work, but I dont know about it, Johnson said. Sometimes you have to toot your own horn, and I understand that in this climate its very difcult to do that because, if youre successful, you dont want to throw it in the oppositions face. Wirtz agreed, saying that the Chamber could work through its members to com- municate the whats, whys and hows of the Chambers positions to member employees. Grade Point Average Overall average grade: B+ Te Chamber earns a 3.4 G.P.A. when con- sidering its scores across all four categories, but the total isnt necessarily refective of the organizations performance at least not based on the comments of the graders. When asked what the Chamber could do to earn an A in one category, Meeker replied with the following explanation. Teyre doing it, he said. Its more the general state of the economy that earned them a B+ instead of an A. And Wirtz, a 24-year member, said joining the Chamber was and still is a great business decision. Ive dropped other memberships from other professional organizations when I felt I was spread too thin, but Ive always held on to the Chamber (membership), she said. Johnson said the Chamber is an outstand- ing organization. I would give it an A cumulative grade point average, he explained. It is far and away superior to chambers in other commu- nities Ive lived. Sometimes you have to toot your own horn, and I understand that in this climate its very diffcult to do that because, if youre successful, you dont want to throw it in the oppositions face.
Mark Johnson president of the Western Oregon Region of Home Federal Bank EugeneArea Chamberof Commerce Hungerford, Creekmore & Co., LLC Eugene, Bend & Portland (541) 686-0993 / creekmore@sales-smarts.com www.hcc.sandler.com 3 4 5 2 7 6 1 T 0 1 By focusing on providing quality care for our patients, we have received national recognition. McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center was the only Oregon hospital recognized by The Joint Commission for achieving excellence in performance on four accountability measures during 2010: Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Pneumonia and Surgical Care. So what does our being a top performer in using evidence-based care mean for you? Peace of mind in knowing that our local care is among the top in the nation. Find out more at our website: McKWeb.com. Top Performer on The Joint Commission Key Quality Measures 2010 Heart Attack Heart Failure Pneumonia Surgical Care Nationally Recognized for Quality. Our Scores Prove It! McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospitals medical staff. 58839_MMC_JC_7_375x4_8125c.indd 1 10/27/11 6:13 PM DECEMBER 2 01 1 /J ANUARY 2 01 2 | OPEN FOR BUS I NESS 1 7 1 6 OPEN FOR BUS I NESS | EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE A regional trade association has commis- sioned three comprehensive surveys over the last ten years, asking businesses (member and non-member companies) what was relevant to them and their perceptions of whether their local Chamber of Commerce was focused on meeting these needs. Te data repeatedly emphasizes the need for Chambers to focus on the follow- ing core areas: n Creating a Strong Local Economy nPromoting the Community nProviding Business Building Opportunities nRepresenting the Interests of Business with Government With customer needs in mind, here is a brief summary of the recent work of the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce is addressing four core chamber competencies: Creating a Strong Local Economy With unemployment rates nearing double digits and the loss of thou- sands of jobs in recent years throughout Eugene/Springfeld, the Eugene Chamber is stepping up its eforts to enhance the economic success of the region. Over the next three years, with the generous support of the Cham- bers Family Foundation and local business leaders, we intend to allocate nearly $400,000 to create an additional focus on Chamber-lead economic development and job creation eforts that will successfully build on our regions strengths. Te program is called the Regional Prosperity Initiative and will focus in the following three areas: n Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Advancing and building local eforts to support new ventures through education, networking and capital formation and the promotion of this region as great place for entrepreneurs and new ideas. n Building on our Strengths: Working to identify and support local in- dustry clusters where new economic opportunities seem most likely. nBusiness Retention and Expansion: Creating a proactive focus on tak- ing care of and supporting traded sector businesses already existing in the metro area through an on-going personal outreach by a trained economic Call Shalena Jones at 541-242-2352 to place your ad today! of local Reach thousands 95% read each issue of Open for Business 71% read the entire issue 97% say its appealing to read 94% say it has interesting articles 92% pay attention to the advertising FOR BUSINESS THE EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: CElEBRATiNGPROMOTiNGiNFORMiNG BUsiNEss A P R i l / M A Y 2 0 1 1 ISSUE 2 USA $3.95 CANADA $6.95 A R T S
G O -G O ON THE HOW NEW INITIATIVES ARE HELPING BOTH BUSINESS AND THE ARTS FOR BUSIN ESS THE EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: CElEBRATiNGPROMOTiNGiNFORMiNG BUsiNEss JUNE/JlUY 2011 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 3 USA $3.95 CANADA $6.95 H O M E G R O W N THE EUGENE AREA ESTABLISHES ITSELF AS A FOOD-PROCESSING HUB Y OU R C H A MB E R Core benchmarks What your Chamber is doing in four areas of competency 909 Garfeld Street, Eugene, Oregon 541.344.4062 www.technaprint.com Eugene/Springfields first G7 Master Qualified Printer Make marketing personal! Let TechnaPrint help you get the attention of potential customers with PERSONALIZED PRINT PRODUCTS, that use both text AND images for the ultimate in customized printing! DECEMBER 2 01 1 /J ANUARY 2 01 2 | OPEN FOR BUS I NESS 1 9 1 8 OPEN FOR BUS I NESS | EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 541-228-3100 www.cascadehealth.org 2650 Suzanne Way, Suite 200, Eugene Occupational Health Program Occupational Medicine MedExpress Physical & Occupational Therapy Corporate Health & Wellness DIRECTION for Employee Assistance Onsite Occupational Health Cascade Health Solutions ofers comprehensive programs that help business owners and managers promote employee health and safety on and of the job. Primary Care Clinic Membership-based primary care for as low as $45/month Physicals, routine ofce visits even mental health services Pre-existing conditions welcome Making life better at work development professional with the intent of identifying and addressing issues, concerns and potential opportunities facing local employers and assisting them to grow in our community. With growth rate that doubles of all busi- nesses in the state Latino-owned businesses are an economic opportunity. Tat is why the Chamber created the Latino Business Network (LBN). LBN provides Latino/His- panic owned and/or managed businesses the opportunity to gain information through peer networking and customized education programs. Oregon ranks 12th in the nation in percent of women-owned businesses and theyre growing. To support their growth the Chamber created the Womens Business Leaders (WBL). Trough WBL women busi- ness owners and managers meet to advise, support and mentor one another in order to promote the success of their businesses. Promoting the Community In a new economy attracting and retain- ing talent to fuel new economic opportuni- ties is essential. Cities with fun, active, vibrant downtowns clearly have a leg-up in attracting and keeping the creative class. Tat is why the Chamber mounted a year- long advocacy campaign, ultimately leading to the extension to the Downtown Urban Renewal District and with it, a host of proj- ects totaling more than $82 million that will transform and revitalize downtown Eugene. In addition, the Chamber is the contract staf to Downtown Eugene, Inc. Te Chamber is one of the founding part- ners of the Arts and Business Alliance of Eugene (ABAE). Te ABAE was formed to support and build the relationships between businesses and arts organizations that can catalyze eco- nomic development; stimulate creativity and innovation; and enhance businesses ability to recruit and retain employees. Quality air service drives quality economic development. Tat is why the Eugene Chamber, in cooperation with Travel Lane County and other local partners, re- cently led the way in providing a local match enabling the Eugene Airport to secure a $500,000 Small Community Air Services Development Grant from the Federal Avia- tion Commission. Te grant will be used to establish net direct air service into San Jose. Since 1998 the Eugene Chamber has been a recognized leader in securing new air service for the region. Since 1986 the Eugene and Springfeld Chambers of Commerce have promoted and fostered the development of volunteer leadership in our communities. Leadership Eugene-Springfeld is a program designed to meet our areas need for the active par- ticipation of informed, skilled and motivated community leaders. Open for Business is an award winning bi-monthly business magazine produced by the Chamber that is committed to commu- nicating the important contributions that businesses make to our areas quality of life, highlighting issues and topics important to the economy and publicizing the important role the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce plays in promoting a healthy local economy. Te Chambers award winning web- site receives over 350,000 visits a year. Te site is used to promote the success of area businesses by providing useful information, serving as a portal for relocation prospects and community resources and provide in- formation about the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce in order to build and retain Chamber membership. Providing Business Building Opportunities Networking is one of the most crucial skills any growing business must have. It is an efective and inexpensive way to grow business by meeting the key people who could become your clients, suppliers and support systems. Tat is why the Eugene Chamber provides over 80 quality network- ing events and opportunities each year, including: Greeters, a committee of the Chamber whose mission is to promote networking op- portunities, new business and connections with chambers throughout the state. Each week 70-90 Greeters gather for business presentations, networking and fun. Chamber Ambassadors conduct local business grand openings, ribbon cutting cer- emonies and serve as the ofcial welcoming group at many Chamber events. Business After Hours is an informal social event co-sponsored by the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce and a Cham- ber member frm each month. It regularly draws over 250 business people who enjoy business-to-business networking in a fun and relaxed mixer. Te Business-to-Business Expo and After Hours is the areas leading business- to-business trade show featuring the prod- ucts and services of over 140 local business exhibitors and over 1,200 business people in attendance. Te Celebration of Business has become one of the premier business events Cities with fun, active, vibrant downtowns clearly have a leg-up in attracting and keeping the creative class. That is why the Chamber mounted a year-long advocacy campaign, ultimately leading to the extension to the Downtown Urban Renewal District and with it, a host of projects totaling more than $82 million. in our community with over 650 of Eugene and Springfelds business and community leaders in attendance each year. Te event features, among other things, the presti- gious First Citizen and Future First Citizen awards, the business year in review video and more. Te mission of Young Professionals Network(YPN) is to provide young business professionals with networking opportuni- ties and relevant personal and professional development topics. Each month nearly 90 YPN gather to connect and support one another. Connect For Lunch is exclusive to Eu- gene Chamber members and is a relaxed way to grow your business in a comfortable social setting in member restaurants. Representing the Interests of Business with Government Te infuential 25 - member Local Gov- ernment Affairs Council (LGAC) meets on a weekly basis to review and take action on public policy issues that impact business and the local economy. From local land use issues to regulations, LGAC is protecting and advancing the interests of business. Among the recent eforts of LGAC are: n Successful continuation of Eugenes Downtown Public Safety Zone. nDefeat of a poorly crafted local personal income tax measure. n Championing the need of additional job-producing land through the Envision Eugene process. n Successfully supported a fair and open City of Eugene redistricting plan. n Championing stabilized funding for higher education. n Supported and facilitated permitting for Seneca Renewable Energy. n Helped develop and pushed for adop- tion of Downtown public safety plan. n Supported and helped pass Police sta- tion relocation and secured commitment for a downtown sub-station. nStopped a proposed local garbage hauler surcharge. Te Eugene Chamber works hard to make sure business interests are represented in addressing the future of the community.. Examples where business interests were rep- resented through the Chamber are Envision Eugene Community Resource Group, EWEB Riverfront Master Plan Advisory Com- mittee, Downtown Public Safety Advisory Committee, Eugene Transportation Plan Community Resource Group, Lane County Economic Development standing Commit- tee, and Airport Advisory Committee. The Eugene Chamber works hard to make sure business interests are represented. EugeneArea Chamberof Commerce DECEMBER 2 01 1 /J ANUARY 2 01 2 | OPEN FOR BUS I NESS 2 1 2 0 OPEN FOR BUS I NESS | EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Mid-Valley Glass & Millwork has hired Lon Tiniakos to join the sales and marketing department. Tiniakos comes to Mid-Valley after spending 16 years as general manager of Eugene Mirror and Glass. www.mid-valley.com Northwest Community Credit Union is pleased to welcome new president and CEO John Iglesias, after the recent retirement of previous CEO Helen Byrnes. www.nwcu.com Martin Marty Caldwell has been selected as sales manager for PeaceHealth Laboratories to promote PeaceHealths medical laboratory services in Oregon, Washington and Alaska. www.peacehealth.org Dr. Mary Spilde, president of Lane Community College, was named CEO of the Year by the Association of Community College Trustees. www.lanecc.edu Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is pleased to announce its board offcers for this year: Laura Montgomery (pictured), president, Gleaves Swearingen Potter & Scott LLP; Lisa Korth (pictured), vice president, community volunteer; Chris Storment (pictured), past president, community volunteer; John Stacy (pictured), secretary/treasurer, U.S. Bank. Also serving on CASAs board of directors are Kellie DeVore, United Way of Lane County; Dr. Paula Jewett, Womens Care; Sid Johnson, retired national child abuse prevention director; Kevin Lamb, PeaceHealth; Ryan Lee, Monaco RV; John Nepute, community volunteer; Mary Ellen Riley, Holly Residential Care Center; Susan Tate, self-employed; and Hon. Pierre Van Rysselberghe, retired Circuit Court judge. www.casa-lane.org PROMOTIONS/NEW HIRES Photos appear left to right from top SMART (Start Making A Reader Today) is pleased to announce the addition of Andy Vobora, Lane Transit District, to the organizations statewide Board of Directors. www.ltd.org Kernutt Stokes LLP is proud to announce the addition of Chris Nystrom as marketing director, the promotion of Chris Palmer to level two associate and John Mlynczyk to manager. www.kernuttstokes.com Brandon Prentice has joined Tyree Oil, Inc. as the companys manager of development. Prentice will be responsible for developing strategic projects and opportunities within all departments of the company. www.tyreeoil.com CAWOOD recently promoted Kurt Booker to Internet technology manager and Nichole Hayward from administrative assistant to project coordinator. Lindsey Kate McCarthy was hired as an account coordinator. www.cawood.com Amy Delaney has been promoted to the position of marketing manager at Pacifc Continental Bank. www.therightbank.com Longtime hotel executive Erik S. Cole has been named general manager for the Inn at the 5th. www.Innat5th.com BUSINESS NEWS 541.342.4000 siuslawbank.com Jeff Gusinow Senior Vice President & Manager Medical & Professional Banking Group Dr. Steven Ofner Ophthalmology Eugene Oregon Eye Care Strength. Stability. Service. Its all about the Relationship at Your Community Bank for Business As part of our community, we take pride in the personal relationships weve developed with local businesses. Our loan decisions are made locally and involve short turnaround time. Stop by one of our 10 Lane County offices to see why at Siuslaw, its all about the relationship. Receive free, practical advice to help your business minimize waste and save money. You may qualify for fnancial incentives and additional resources. We provide hands-on assistance for: wasteprevention&recycling energyeffciency&conservation waterconservation waterquality purchasing ABRINGeducationprogram www.bringrecycling.org Waste less, earnmore Callnow 541-746-3023 One East Broadway, Eugene, OR 97401 (541) 653-8969 bellandfunk.com Newtimes call for newthinking. David Funk, formerly of Funk/Levis, has joined Jen Bell to form bell+funk, a new marketing frm dedicated to developing and implementing communication strategies for a new world. Davids branding and creative skills, combined with Jens experience as a strategic planner for national brands bring unparalleled expertise to marketing communications. Give us a call. After 30 years, it was time for a change DECEMBER 2 01 1 /J ANUARY 2 01 2 | OPEN FOR BUS I NESS 2 3 2 2 OPEN FOR BUS I NESS | EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE KLCC 89.7 FM has hired Cheryl Crumbley as development director. She will manage fundraising, marketing, underwriting and community relations for this NPR affliate. www.klcc.org Hutchinson, Cox, Coons, DuPriest, Orr & Sherlock PC announces that Samuel L. Roberts (pictured) has joined the frm as an associate attorney. Retired frm shareholder Bruce H. Anderson was recognized by the Oregon State Bar with an award for contributing the most pro bono legal service hours in the state during 2010. www.eugene-law.com Larry E. Reed of JRH, an engineering and transportation and land use planning frm, has been appointed by the Lane County Board of Commissioners to the Lane County Roads Advisory Committee (RAC). The RAC reviews the need for road improvements including the countys 5-year Capital Improvement Plan. www.jrbweb.com Penny Sabath recently joined the staff of Brothers Cleaning Services. In her new job she will work in sales, marketing and customer service. www.brotherscleaning.com Home Federal Bank is pleased to announce Lisa Walters has been promoted to vice president and market manager for the western Oregon market. Operating from the Eugene downtown branch, Walters will provide leadership direction for all Home Federal Bank branches in Eugene and Springfeld. www.myhomefed.com Osteria Sfzio welcomes Franco DAmico as general manager of the restaurant. www.sfzioeugene.com B US I NE S S NE WS Linda Fleck has joined Oregon Imaging Centers as director of fnance. Fleck previously worked for PeaceHealth Oregon Region as a fnancial analyst. www.oregonimaging.com Local professional organizer Jan Lehman, owner of Can the Clutter , recently appeared in an episode of the Emmy nominated TV series Hoarders on the A&E Network. Lehman joined up behind the scenes with the professional team of Matt Paxton, to document the struggles of an Oregon family working to overcome this debilitating and often-stigmatized disease. BUSINESS NEWS Silke Communications has acquired the Washington-based wireless communications company County Communications. The acquisition marks the companys offcial entry into the multi-state market. www.silkecom.com The Meyer Memorial Trust announced that the Eugene Symphony will receive a $100,000 grant for the expansion of its education and community engagement programs. The grant will help establish an education director position, and help launch several new programs, including an in- school music project in conjunction with the 4J, Springfeld and Bethel school districts utilizing members of the Eugene Symphony. www.eugenesymphony.org DePaul Industries recently received the Oregon Ethics in Business Award, which honors those organizations and individuals who have demonstrated ethical business practice in its broadest interpretation: in the workplace, the marketplace, the environment and the community. In October, DePaul Industries celebrated its 40th year as a not-for-proft organization. www.depaulstaffng.com Cascade sierra solutions (Css), a Eugene- based nonproft dedicated to improving air quality by assisting truckers with clean- diesel truck upgrades, has received a Clean Air Award for Innovative Transportation Projects from the South Coast Air Quality Management District. CSS received the honor for its work in providing fnancing and information about grant funding to truck owners seeking to replace or retroft older, high-polluting heavy-duty trucks. www.cascadesierrasolutions.org The Eugene Family YMCA has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Safeway Foundation. The grant is designated and will be used to support the Eugene Family YMCAs Diabetes Prevention Program. www.eugeneymca.org McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center, an established regional leader in robotic- assisted surgery, announced that it is now the frst hospital in the region to use a dual- console application. www.mckweb.com WHEN ITS GO TIME. 541.684.7500 SUMMITBANKONLINE.COM 96 EAST BROADWAY EUGENE, OR 97401 MOVE UP Part of the Summit team (left to right): Chris Hemmings, Mara Hooker and Krista Riddle. DECEMBER 2 01 1 /J ANUARY 2 01 2 | OPEN FOR BUS I NESS 2 5 24 OPEN FOR BUS I NESS | EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE B US I NE S S NE WS Harrang Long Gary Rudnick P.C. (HLGR), a regional law frm with offces in Portland, Eugene, and Salem, was named to U.S. News & World Reports Best Law Firms list for 2011-2012. HLGR was ranked as a frst-tier law frm in Portland in the areas of appellate practice and professional malpractice law-defendants and as a frst-tier law frm in Eugene in the areas of administrative/regulatory law, appellate practice, employment law-management, and eminent domain and condemnation law. www.harrang.com CAWOOD was recently honored with eight international marketing awards: Communicator Awards for Audio Excellence (writing/creative concept radio ad); Audio Distinction Award (radio commercials); Print Distinction Award (magazine print ad) and Interactive Distinction Award (website). CAWOOD also won the following Telly Awards: Bronze (Internet/Online Video- Cultural); Bronze (Health and Wellness); Bronze (Non-Broadcast Productions-Sales) and Bronze (Internet/Online Video- Information). www.cawood.com The Nature Conservancy honored local frm CAWOOD in the Business Conservation Leadership Award category. The awards recognize individuals, community partners, businesses and others for their leadership in conserving Oregons natural lands and waters. www.cawood.org Forests Today & Forever has been selected as a recipient of the 2011 Mary Rellergert Forestry Education Award. The award is given by the Oregon Department of Forestry and the Oregon Natural Resources Education Program at Oregon State University in recognition of signifcant contributions to the advancement of public information, education and understanding of forestry. www.foreststodayandforever.org Eugene Water & Electric Board and PIVOT Architecture announced that EWEBs new Roosevelt Operations Center has been awarded LEED Gold Certifcation established by the U.S. Green Building Council and verifed by the Green Building Certifcation Institute. www.eweb.org www.pivotarchitecture.com Feynman Group has launched its new Tuva CMS-based website. A major aspect of the new site is the use of Tuva CMS, a custom- built Web application created by Feynman Group developers, which utilizes the ASP.Net MVC software platform. Feynman Group is celebrating its 10th anniversary in December. www.feynmangroup.com Oregon Community Credit Union has received the 2011 Best Practices Award in the category of Sales & Service Management from the CUNA Operations Sales & Service Council. The credit union was recognized for its innovative practices in creating, cultivating, and sustaining a successful sales culture through its grass- roots training program called 360 Training: Excelling in a Sales Culture. www.oregoncommunitycu.org NEW MEMBERS When you join the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce, you become part of a vibrant and prosperous community of creative entrepreneurs, forward-thinking innovators and visionary business leaders. Were pleased to welcome these new members who have chosen to take advantage of the Chambers tools, resources and expansive network to grow their businesses: Click Refresh www.click-refresh.com Cody Jordan, Attorney at Law www.cjordanlaw.com Community Outreach Publications LLC CORE Communications www.corecomm.us Divine Cupcake www.divinecupcake.com Emerald Hills Enterprises LLC dba Pink Butterfy Aprons www.pinkbutterfyaprons.com Eugene Fastener & Supply Co., Inc. Firestone - Complete Auto Care www.frestonecompleteautocare.com Grants Hearing Center, Inc. www.grantshearing.com Hut Airport Shuttle, Inc. www.hutshuttle.com LaneApex Disposal Service www.laneapex.com Meadow Outdoor Advertising www.meadowoutdoor.com Leland W. Nebeker, DMD www.we-cater-to-cowards.com Oslund Design Incorporated www.oslund.com Real Ladies of Lane County www.realladiesradio.com Real Pets Silver Sun Travel and Educators Travel Network www.silversuntravel.com KUDOS Goodwill Industries and St. Vincent de Paul helped the Eugene Active 20-30 Club Coats for Kids campaign reach their goal of 1400 childrens coats by donating nearly 30 coats. At the Eugene Water & Electric Board, were empowering businesses with resources to save money and energy. Doctors Alex Morley and Howard Stein, owners of Eugene Urgent Care, worked with EWEB and BRING Recyclings RE:think Business program to retrofit their T12 light fixtures with more energy-efficient T8 fluorescent lighting. EWEB incentives covered more than 80% of the installation, and the doctors are saving $40 per month on their electric bill. To find out about EWEBs energy-saving programs for your business, visit eweb.org/savemoney or call 541.685.7000. Maybe yours will be the next powerful tale we tell. EugeneArea Chamberof Commerce Business News covers promotions, hires, awards, business giving and business news. E-mail items to businessnews@eugenechamber.com. 2 6 OPEN FOR BUS I NESS | EUGENE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 819 Number of Eugene Chamber member companies and organizations with ten employees or less: representing 75% of the Chambers membership. 130 Networking and business building opportunities the Eugene Chamber sponsors for its members over the course of a typical year. 15 Regional and national Industry honors and recognition received by the Chamber over the past decade for innovation, excellence and leadership. 43,000 Referrals to members provided by the Chambers award winning website each day. $132,000 Provided in direct support to local schools and scholarships over the past decade through the Chambers Future First Citizen and A Champion in Education programs. $85 million in new construction underway in downtown Eugene following a year-long advocacy campaign, ultimately leading to the extension to the Downtown Urban Renewal District. $500,000 invested in local start-ups through the Chamber sponsored Willamette Angel Conference since 2009. 48 Number of meetings each year of the Chambers infuential 25 member Local Government Affairs Council (LGAC) in order to review and take action on public policy issues that impact business and the local economy. 116 Number of companies the Chambers Business Retention and Expansion program proactively met with and assisted in 2011. 75 Number of early stage, entrepreneurial companies assisted and coached through the Chambers Regional Prosperity Initiative. $200,000 The amount of money the Eugene Chamber has committed to local, sustainable job creation in 2011. 190 local businesses became members of the Eugene Chamber in 2011, choosing to become partners in the progress of a healthy local economy. F OOD F OR T HOUGHT By the numbers EugeneArea Chamberof Commerce Fly easy... PO Box 1107 Eugene, OR 97440-1107 kernuttstokes.com 1600 Executive Parkway, Suite 110, Eugene, Oregon 97401 541.687.1170 Its good to know where youve been. Its better to know where youre going. We can help you get there. Certified Public Accountants & Consultants