northeast oregon business news

NORTHEAST OREGON BUSINESS NEWS

Volume 1 - Issue 3 Serving Baker, Morrow, Umatilla, Union and Wallowa Counties NOV/DEC 2014

Enjoy a Peaceful Getaway at Gilbert Inn - 2

C & R MercantileIn Hermiston -Page 10

Oregon MaverickFreda Cant -Page 5

freefree

Dan and Jeanne Carver, of Imperial Stock Ranch in Shaniko are recipients of the 2014 Ag Connection Award

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In just four short years Wenaha Group has secured their spot as a leader in the construction industry

By Lori Kimbel

In 2010 Rob Quaempts and Dave Fishel decide to form the partnership Wenaha Goup. With similar views and values they set out to create a company that would have a close relationship with the people they

worked with, the people they worked for and the different com-munities they all called home. Even though their world headquarters is located in a small corner office in downtown Pend-leton, that hasn’t stopped them from taking on projects as far away as Yakima and Portland, and being a relatively small company also has not stopped them from taking on large projects that have had huge impacts for the commu-nities they are in.

WENAHA GROUPCONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Wenaha Group - Living Up To Their Guiding Principles

New Lounge is on Tap for Wildhorse Resort & Casino’s Next Remodel

Once again Wildhorse Resort and Casino will be making improvements to further enhance their guest’s experiences

Lori Kimbel

A $1 million dollar renovation will soon be underway at Wildhorse Resort and Casino. “We are always evolving,” said Tiah De-Grofft, Community Relations Manager for Wildhorse Resort and Casino. The $1 million renovation will include the addition of a non-smoking lounge near the hotel lobby where the current Wild Roast Coffee Bar & Deli is located. Wild Roast will move to the current location of the gift shop and the gift shop will move to an empty space in the hotel lobby. According to DeGrofft, many of the chang-es and improvements that happen at the casino and resort are in direct relation to the comment cards left by guests. “Executive management reads every single comment card,” said DeGrofft. “The updated re-strooms at the RV Park are a direct result of a guest’s comment card.” In addition to the physical improvements to the casino, there have also been some changes hap-pening at Wildhorse Sports Bar. Hypnotists, comedi-ans, ladies nights and Jamaroke, which is karaoke with a ‘live band’ twist, are a few of the exciting changes taking place on Wednesday nights. Be sure to visit www.wildhorseresort.com for all of the latest promotions and entertainment events taking place at Wildhorse in Pendleton.

The Carvers were selected for their leadership in connecting urban Oregonians to the source of their food and fiber

An effort that ramped up when their wool buyer went off-shore, in 1999, and they had to find ways to keep sheep on the ranch. Dan and Jeanne began selling their lamb directly to high-end restaurant

chefs, and running Im-perial Yarn, selling yarns and forming partnerships to produce garments. They also collaborated with fashion designers Norm Thomp-son and Anna Cohen, on separate apparel lines, and most recently with Ralph Lauren, on sweat-ers U.S. athletes wore at the Opening Ceremo-nies of the 2014 Winter Olympics. At the heart of these connections have been their sustainable practices, their connection to the land, and their ability to share that story with a variety of audiences. These efforts haveconnected consumers to the source, traditional skills, and

story be-hind their

food and fiber. Those who see the qual-ities and connec-tions they’ve built, know this award is no surprise. “They’retotally appropriate for it, they’re do-ing lots of work in this area, and it’s great for them

to be recognized for it,” says Cohen. For Dan and Jeanne, it’s a different story. “We are grateful and extremely humbled…there are a lot of people carrying the torch and telling the story of agriculture in this state,” says Jeanne, “…we’re just fortunate to be recognized for that in this award.”(News Release from Agri Business Council of Oregon)

Imbler School District completed 2011

Dan and Jeanne Carver

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Northeast Oregon Business News

Volume 1 - Issue 3 - November - December 2014Publisher

Lori [email protected]

PO Box 295Elgin, Oregon 97827

541-910-1096Circulation 10,000 distributed every other month.

Serving Baker, Morrow, Umatilla, Unionand Wallowa Counties

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Bob Staples has been guiding hunters into the prime hunting area of the Blue Mountains in northeast Oregon and southeast Washington for 20 years. Staples along with his guiding partner Michelle Bailey, work hard to make sure the hunters they guide have a great experience to talk about once they head back home. “Our specialty is trophy bull elk,” said Staples. Some of the hunts they guide for include elk, mule deer, bear, and turkey. They usually have an array of outfitter tags available in the following areas and hunts: Starkey rifle bull, Sumpter rifle bull, Catherine Creek rifle bull, Wenaha rifle and arhery bull, Walla Walla rifle and arhery bull, Mt. Emily rifle and archery bull, Desoloation rifle elk, Lookout Mountain buck, Catherine Creek buck, Sumpter buck, Keating buck, Trout Creek buck, and Steens Mountain buck. For more information visit www.blue-mountainadventures.com. They can also be reached at 541-910-1162, or by email at [email protected] or [email protected].

Let Blue Mountain Adventures Guide your Next Hunt

Well it is Sunday night and I go to print with the third issue of Northeast Oregon Business News in the morning. This has been a great issue to put together. Getting out and meeting people from around our northeast

Oregon, as well as the rest of the state, is one of my most favorite things to do. Over the past couple months I have been able to interview some very interesting people and am lucky enough to help tell their stories. Dave Fishel and Scott Rogers of Wenaha Group gave me some insight into some of the projects they are working on and how the companies guiding principles helps them in not only their work life, but life in general. Bob Staples and Michelle Bailey of Blue Mountain Adventures visited with me about some of their guiding adventures. Chris and Heather Holmgren have been moving equipment into their new place in Elgin and should be build-ing inventory soon. I was also lucky enough to sit down for an after-noon with Freda Cant who has been an Oregonian for 102 years. Then there was Cynthia Traner of C & R Mercan-tile. What a delightful lady she is. She had me sit down and gave me a quilt for my lap, in the midst of her quaint shop in Hermiston. Brent and Greg Moulton recently opened Next Step Carpet and are ready to serve the community for anoth-er 25 years. I also got to visit with Jeannine Gordon about the new Kayak Public Transit offered by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation. Tiah DeGrofft filled me in on all of the new changes taking place at Wildhorse....we always have a great visit, she is such a fun lady to visit with. Then there was the traveling.....oh how I love the traveling. We spent time in Echo, Boardman, Minam State Park, Troy, Heppner, saw the Oregon Trail, and even made it over to Seaside and stayed at the historic Gilbert Inn. Yes, we had a great time traveling.

Of course one of the highlights of September is

the Pendleton Round-Up, northeast Oregon’s #1 Event. This event is a must-see for anyone who calls themselves a true Oregonian. From the PBR, to the Happy Canyon Pageant, the Dress-Up Parade, the Main Street Cowboy Show, the Westward Ho!! Parade and all of the action at the Pendleton Round-Up grounds, this is an event that cannot be missed. I would like to thank all of the people who took the time to visit with me about the work they are all so passionate about. It is great to visit with so many entrepre-neurs and know we all share a common drive of creating something out of nothing, something that gives back to the people that we are lucky enough to come into contact with. Something that wasn’t there before we thought of it. It is a great group to be associated with and I appreciate the trust you have placed in me as I tell your stories. And then there are my advertisers. Without you this paper would not be possible. I hope you find that support-ing Northeast Oregon Business News is something you are proud to do. This paper will continue to be the voice for business owners throughout northeast Oregon and beyond. I appreciate you putting your advertising dollars in our direc-tion and I hope that the return on your investment will truly exceed your expectations. Of course I would also like to thank you, my reader. I appreciate you spending your valuable time leafing through the pages of Northeast Oregon Business News. I hope you find the stories engaging, the information valuable and the photos pleasing to the soul. Happy Fall everyone. I hope you are all enjoying the wonderful weather we have been having so far. Feel free to contact me with any questions, or ideas you might have for our January - February issue. Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving.

Lori

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News ReleaseSept. 5, 2014

New Oregon Cattlemen’s

Association Executive

Director ‘Really Excited

About This Opportunity’ SALEM, Ore. -- The Oregon Cattlemen’s Associa-tion has hired Gervais resident Jerome Rosa as its executive director, OCA President Ray Sessler announced Friday. “He’s energetic and is going to bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to our organization,” Sessler said. “OCA has been around for 101 years and we think he’s an excellent fit Jerome Rosa phototo move the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association into the future. We are very pleased that he has chosen to join our organization and we are looking forward to a long and mutually beneficial rela-tionship.” Rosa’s anticipated start date at the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association is Oct. 1. Rosa is the owner of JER-OSA Organic Dairy and Ponderosa Ranch. In this role, Rosa gained significant experience in working with contracts, certifi-cations and various other business and production facets. Rosa has also worked with the Oregon Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Department of Agricul-ture and several other agricultural organizations and branches of the govern-ment. Rosa has also served as a volunteer on several agricultural organizations where he has worked side-by-side with senators, congressmen, international trade officials and others. Rosa was appointed by the governor of Oregon in 2010 to serve as a board member on the Board of Agriculture for the State of Oregon. Rosa has also been involved with the Oregon Beef Council where he has served in roles ranging from chairman, vice chairman to board member. Furthermore, Rosa has participated in other organizations, such as the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety, Pudding River Watershed, Land O’Lakes Young Producer Program and Marion County Natural Resources Conservation Service. “I’m really excited about this opportunity and will do my best to repre-sent the cattlemen of the state of Oregon,” Rosa said. “I feel with my experi-ence, I will hit the ground running.” Rosa holds a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture education, along with a minor in animal science, from California State University -- Fresno. The Oregon Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) works to promote envi-ronmentally and socially sound industry practices, improve and strengthen the economics of the industry, and protect its industry communities and private property rights. For more information, please contact Scott Anderson at [email protected] 503-361-8941. Visit the OCA website at www.orcattle.com

Jerome Rosa i s New Execut ive Director of the Oregon Catt lemen’s Assoc iat ion

BUSINESS

By Lori Kimbel

Chris and Heather Holmgren, of Calico Weapons Systems are in the process of setting up their shop, on Hemlock Street, in Elgin, in the former Omnicut building. “We are going to start out with just two or three people to get the ball rolling during the setup stage,” said Hearther Holmgren. “We plan on getting back to a dozen or so workers, but we are going to hire just one, or two at a time.” The Holmgrens are currently taking resumes, which can be mailed to P.O. Box 640 in Elgin, Oregon 97827. According to Heather, once the inventory was unpacked they were able to resume shipments to customers. Setup of the manufacturing equipment should take less than two months .

Calico Weapons Systems is Making the Move to Elgin

Calico Weapons manufacturing plant will be located in the former Omnicut building in Elgin

Community freelance writers wanted in Baker County,

Wallowa County, Milton Freewater and Hermistion

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Send writing samples to: PO Box 295 Elgin, Oregon

Please include an e-mail address.

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Northeast Oregon Business News Business Directory

Legacy FordLa Grande, Oregon

541-963-2161www.legacyfordlagrande.com



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Legacy Chrysler Jeep Dodge RamIsland City, Oregon

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AUTO DEALER AUTO REPAIRAUTO DEALER AUTO REPAIR



Community BankJoseph, Oregon 97846

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AUTO PARTS BANKINGAUTO PARTS BUSINESS ADVICE

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2411 NW CardenPendleton, OR 97801

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Elgin Chamber of CommercePO Box 1001

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Wenaha GroupPendleton, Oregon 97801

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RDO FARM EQUIPMENTHermiston: 1-800-357-7925Pendleton: 1-800-422-5598

Wasco: 1-800-989-7351

BUSINESS ADVICE COMMUNITYCONSTRUCTION FARM EQUIPMENT

Community Bank609 N. Main Street

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HOME LOANS SPORTS APPARELINSURANCE TIRES & WHEELS

News Release September 17, 2014 Wage floor adjustment will boost consumer buying power, strengthen economy, says Avakian PORTLAND–Oregon Labor and Industries Commissioner Brad Avakian today announced that Oregon’s minimum wage will increase to $9.25 on January 1, 2015, providing a $.15 per hour raise for 141,822 workers. “Oregon’s minimum wage helps workers keep pace with the rising cost of goods while boosting the purchasing power of consumers around the state,” said Commissioner Avakian. “With this increase in Oregon’s wage floor, more than 140,000 Oregonians will have more money to make ends meet – and more money to spend at local businesses. That’s good for everyone.” The adjustment will mean that minimum wage earners working 30 hours a week will have $234 more to spend on goods in 2015. The increase is expected to generate more than $25 million in new consumer spending for Oregon’s economy next year. Each year, Commissioner Avakian calculates the minimum wage by measur-ing the increase to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), a figure published by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics to track prices for a fixed “market basket” of goods. Passed by a coalition of senior, hunger and labor advocates in 2002, Ore-gon’s minimum wage system ensures that workers don’t lose ground to inflation. “We all do better when people in our communities can make ends meet,”

said Patti Whitney-Wise of the Oregon Hunger Task Force. “By increasing family economic security, this rise in the mini-mum wage will help people afford more nutritious food for their families. When we help people invest in good nutrition, we help create great communities for us all to live in. Family economic security is the foundation for prosperous, stable communities.” One common misconception about employees earning a minimum wage is that they are mostlyteenagers. However, according to the Economic Policy Insti-tute, roughly 80-percent of all minimum wage workers living in states with an indexed minimum wage last year were at least 20 years old. “About two-thirds of minimum wage workers in Oregon are women, and increasingly women are primary and co-breadwinners in their families - and our communities,” said Andrea Paluso of Family Forward. “The stereotype that minimum wage workers are inexperienced teens wanting pocket change simply isn’t the case. Truth is, Oregon women and their families depend more and more on what women earn to pay the bills.” The 2015 minimum wage in-crease will affect roughly eight percent of Oregon’s workforce.Oregon employers are required to post minimum wage posters. Downloadable posters for 2015 reflecting the new minimum wage rate will be avail-able on BOLI’s website later this week free of charge.

Avakian Announces 2015 Minimum Wage Increase For 141,000 Workers

Mission to China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Japan explores export growth, business expansion and builds relation-ships to grow business back in Oregon

SALEM—Business Oregon Direc-tor Sean Robbins departs for Asia today to pursue business and export growth opportunities, continuing to leverage long-standing ties between Oregon and its trade partners within the Pacific Rim. Approximately 490,000 Oregon jobs are tied to international trade with wages 18% above the Oregon average. During the 12-day trip, Robbins will visit China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Japan where he will pursue opportunities to increase Or-egon exports and meet with compa-nies already invested here in Oregon, as well as those considering the state for future expansion. Robbins also will join officials from the Port of Portland who will be in Asia as well, working to increase cargo services between Oregon and Asia. “Oregon has a great story to tell abroad. Our mission is to champion that story and the innova-tion of Oregon businesses. By doing that, we increase revenues for local companies, attract new international operations into Oregon and cre-ate jobs for Oregonians,” Robbins said. “The state’s exports to these countries tops $6 billion, up 13% last

year, and we are uniquely positioned to capture more of that growth if we get after it and relentlessly tell Oregon’s story.” In Tokyo, for example, Robbins will meet with executives from five companies including the Nikkan Kogyo newspaper, a leading business publication in Japan, with which Business Oregon has been working to promote American expansion opportunities for growing Japanese manufacturers. Earlier this year executives from the publication led a group of representatives from Japanese companies on a scouting trip to Oregon, which has already created several opportunities for potential investment here. This mission continues a proud tradition of the state and its partners of connecting Oregon’s economy to growing markets across the Pacific. More recently, Business Oregon’s export assistance grants totaling $594,000 have helped 170 Oregon small businesses achieve immediate sales of $21 million over-seas. Just this past April, a delegation of Oregon officials and business leaders traveled to Japan for a series of trade and business development meetings, and to deliver a “Doing Business in Oregon” seminar to local business executives. An itinerary for the mission can be found on our Web site.

Business Oregon Director’sBusiness Development Mission to Asia

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BUSINESSSmall Business Owners Find Niche and Grow

Providing honest, high quality service and demonstrating superior product knowledge are two secrets to the success of a small business.

by Trish Yerges That’s the business philosophy of Luke and Heidi Adams, who own and operate their growing family business, La Grande Light Truck, 2302 Cove Avenue in La Grande. “Any problem you have with your diesel truck or four-by-four pickup, we can fix, and any high perfor-mance modification that you want done we can help with those upgrades,” said Heidi, owner of the business. “We can do any type of repair from bumper-to-bumper!” La Grande Light Truck has found their niche in “truck country.” Starting with free consultations, Luke offers a comprehensive range of maintenance services. He’s experienced at injector and fuel system testing for driving issues, engine repairs, cooling system repairs, head gaskets and head studs repairs and a full diagnostic check on any truck for any problem. He also offers a full range of conventional vehicle maintenance. “Luke has been a mechanic for 20 years, having worked in a family mechanics shop in Lakeview on any-thing from school buses, farm or ranch machinery, trucks and cars. He worked at a one-stop, fix everything shop,

prior to establishing our business.” As a mechan-ic with a broad-based knowledge of engines, Luke developed a special interest in diesel mechanics and found his business niche despite competition. He credits his growing business, not only to high work standards, but to his access to su-perior, durable product parts. “The advan-tage of us working on your truck is that we use the best parts or upgraded parts and are not constrained by dealership parts,” said Luke. “In many cases, the aftermarket has parts failure solutions that can really improve your truck’s engine, that the dealership cannot or may not choose to use. We are constantly learning and finding out the best solutions to avoid repeat failure and add to the durability of your truck’s engine.” This keeps La Grande Light Truck customers

happy and happy customers tell their friends. Luke and Heidi Adams find that customer referrals have been their best form of advertisement, and with that, their business has grown exponentially since they opened in La Grande in 2011.

LIGHT TRUCK CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Luke and Heidi Adams of La Grande Light Truck have coupled old-fashioned work ethics with hi-tech product knowledge, not only to turn-over their business, but to make it rev.

If living in Oregon for 102 years doesn’t make you a maverick, I’m not sure what would

By Lori Kimbel

It is impossible to sum up 102 years of life in a single article, so I won’t even try. I will, however, offer a glimpse into the ‘ordinary life’ as she refers to it, of Freda Cant. Born to Boyd and Sylvia Stirritt, on February 3, 1912, in John Day, Freda was the youngest of three children. Lloyd was her older brother and Willia her older sister. Freda and her siblings would ride an old grey mare named Gin to school in Dayville, which was two miles from their grandparent’s house where they lived during the school year. “We rode horse back until we got too big and then we just walked the two miles to school,” she said. “I remember going out to the barn at the school and thinking about hopping on the old mare and heading for home instead of staying in school all day. I never did do that, but the memory is strong and lasting, so I’m sure I contemplated it often.” “Dad was a very smart man. He was a farmer and owned Erikson Sawmill in the Basin Country of Day-ville,” she said. “Dad was a good provider. His favorite saying when we were about to do something wrong was, ‘you don’t want to do that do you?’” I listened to her memories, as fresh as if they were yesterday, and watched as the emotions played out across her face. “One time Dad was at hunting camp when he had an appendicitis attack. We all went along with them to the hospital in Prairie City. They must have thought he wasn’t going to make it, so that is why I suspect we went along with them. He made it though, he survived,” she smiled. “I had good parents. My mom was a good mother. We stayed with my grandparents during school since mom and dad lived too far away from the school.” I sensed mixed emotions, but left it alone. A fond memory of her childhood was doing chores alongside her sister. “She kept me drying ‘til the

last spoon was dry. She didn’t growl at me, that is just the way it was.” She recited her life in a close-to-perfect time-line, leaving out thousands of days of normal life on the ranch, yet interjected bits and pieces of history for me to follow along with. “The last time I remember seeing Doc Hay I introduced myself and he said, ‘you don’t have to tell me who you are, I know you are Bill Stirritt’s granddaughter,’ That just about knocked me off the tree,” she said with a giggle. Doc Hay was a very well-known Chinese doctor that practiced in John Day. If you get a chance to go to the Kam Wah Chung Oregon State Heritage Site in John Day, it is well worth it. In 1929 Freda graduated from Day-ville High School with just five other students. “I graduated from high school right into the Great Depression. No one had any money back then. I went to College at Oregon State for a while, but I didn’t get to go for very long,” she said. “Then I came back to Dayville.” Shortly after coming back home from college, RG Johnson, the Grant County Agent, stopped in to visit with her while she was at her grandmothers. “He asked if I would come to work for him. I just stepped right into the county job. I was the only hired position,” she said proudly. “I boarded with the Sheriff, Cy Bingham and his wife, Connie. They were very good to me.” After two years at her county job, Freda met and then married James A. Cant. “We lived on the Cant Ranch for 45 years,” she said. “We lived just up the road from the in-laws. We got a small wage and we raised the kids.” The history of the Cant Ranch will have to wait for another article, but if you would like to learn more before I get a chance to tell you all about it please search for Cant Ranch and Dayville online and you will find information about this fascinating part of Oregon. Freda and her husband, James, lived in a cabin that was moved to the ranch on a wagon from a nearby ‘road camp’. “Outlying places were so far from town that

the road workers made their own settlements called Road Camps. I can remember them blasting to make the road through the canyon. Once the cabin arrived at the ranch they soon began adding onto it, turning it into the house they would raise all of their children in. Freda and James had four children, Betty Ann, Kathleen, Kerma, and James. “I taught my children how to grow up in the country, and to except what they had. We weren’t in

distress. It may have been difficult at times, but we were never in distress,” said Freda. “Raising my family meant something to me. I wanted to be able to send my own kids off to school. I’ve tried to teach them to have a little security. You need a roof over your head, and you need to take responsibility for raising your family.” James and Freda moved to Imbler in 1977. “It is home to me here,” she said, “but Dayville country is my first home, it is really home to me.”

Freda lost her husband in 1993 and she said she still misses him. “I’ve just been drifting along since then.” I timidly asked her if death scared her. She told me no with a reassuring smile. “I just hope to go to sleep in my own bed one day and wake up somewhere else.” At 102 Freda attributes her long life to always living a clean life. “We didn’t play around and get into trouble. We lived with rules and regulations, and if you live within these rules, as a family, then you didn’t get into trouble.” When asked how she sees the world today she said, “I say live and let live.” I asked her if she had ever had a computer. She gently tapped her forehead and said, “This is my comput-er and it still keeps me going.” “My life is just an ordinary life. It isn’t anything spectacular,” she claimed. But as her latest and newest friend, I beg to differ. I was honored to spend the after-noon with this fairly spry, young woman that bubbles out behind wrinkles brought about by living for 102 years in a couple small towns in Oregon. I think her life seems very spectacular and I would bet that her other friends and family would agree with me wholeheartedly.

Oregon Maverick - Freda Cant

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BUSINESS

Oregon Cattlemen’s Association News Release Sept. 9, 2014 SALEM, Ore. -- Since 2009, Oregon ranchers have been vigilant against wolves preying on their livestock.Ranchers throughout the state, along with the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association in Salem, have paid careful attention to what’s happened on their land concern-ing wolves because wolf depredations directly impact the bottom line of not only ranchers, but also directly affects the economy and what’s put on plates at American dinner tables. After all, cattle is the No. 2 agricultural commodity in Oregon at more than $669 million in 2013 alone, according to the Oregon Department of Agriculture.Along with also paying attention to the legal ranglings of wolves at state and federal levels, Oregon ranchers are now in an awkward position with the Oregon Department Fish and Wildlife’s latest wolf depredation investigation. Last month, ODFW officials confirmed that a wolf from the Umatilla Pack was respon-sible for killing a sheep in late-August, bringing the total of recent qualified wolf depredations to three. It’s a signifi-cant stepping stone because in order for state officials to authorize a wolf killing, certain conditions need to be met. One of those conditions is that the rancher has taken non-lethal steps to protect their livestock. Another condition is that state officials must feel wolf attacks will likely continue despite more non-lethal protections. The third condition is that officials must supply undeniable proof that a wolf or wolves are responsible for four livestock attacks in a six-month period. With three attacks now con-firmed by officials, Oregon ranchers are in a bit of unfamiliar territory. Do they hope for another confirmed wolf depredation for state officials to possibly authorize a wolf kill that would stop depredations or do they simply hope an-other wolf attack on their cattle doesn’t happen? “We don’t wish another rancher has another qualified event on any fellow producer,” said Clint Sexson, the president of the Umatilla County Cat-tlemen’s Association. “However, given the past events, another qualified event is anticipated. When, and if, that point does come, we are prepared to do our part to see that due process does follow through. We are only really looking for some kind of restitution for our many hours of worry and losses to our families and our operations.” Joseph rancher Todd Nash, the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association Wolf Committee Chairman, said the situation is simply a difficult for both ranchers and non-ranchers. “It’s a negative thing to kill a wolf and for it to come to that,” he said. “It’s one of those no-win situations that we get into as an industry.” Even if a wolf does not attack,

a wolf ’s mere presence can dramatically affect livestock. The harassed livestock not only lose valuable weight from being chased by a wolf, but livestock also have their grazing habits disturbed due to the wolf presence. As a result, livestock do not regain those valuable pounds back quickly, if they do at all. Both are major economic losses to Oregon cattlemen. The presence of wolves also play key roles in lost pregnancies in livestock. The preg-nant animal that is harassed has a higher risk of losing her growing fetus -- not only from being chased by wolves, but from the uneasiness that results from the wolves being present. Both cause higher levels of cortisol in the blood, which can result in the loss of a pregnancy. Injuries and infections from wolf attacks also significantly affect livestock. The reduced weight and quality of the animal -- plus the cost of time, veterinarian bills and antibiotics for recovery -- substantially reduce the sale value of the livestock. Basically, the rancher has a slim chance to break even financially in this case, and they most likely will suffer a significant economic loss. While much of this may seem only pertinent to Oregon cattlemen and those in related industries, the devastat-ing impact of wolf depredations carry far beyond the rancher. In fact, it can trickle all the way down to the average consumer. How? One single cow can be worth at least $15,000 based on not only its physical characteristics, but how many calves it can produce in its lifetime. For instance, if a person was to buy a 2-year-old heifer, it would cost approxi-mately $2,500. Throughout its lifetime, a cow can produce an average of 10 calves. Each of those calves is worth approxi-mately $1,500, making each cow capable of generating $15,000. If their initial in-vestments in these cows are lost, it could result in driving the cost of beef higher than it already is. Even more significant is that according to the Cattle Inventory Report issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the 87.7 million head of cattle in the United States is the lowest since 1951, which means if there are few-er cattle, beef prices for the American consumer may spike. Nash also said wolf depreda-tions on cattle have other ancillary ef-fects. If a calf or cow is killed by a wolf, others involved in the beef production process are negatively affected. Nash said a cow or calf that’s killed by a wolf dep-redation won’t go through the processing plant, the distributor and retailer before a cut of beef finally lands on a plate in front of the consumer. All of those em-ployed people along the way – all the way

down to the waiter who serves the beef to the consumer – won’t benefit econom-ically if a wolf attacks a cow or calf. All of these factors are im-portant in the wolf depredation issue regarding Oregon cattlemen. “In the Oregon rancher’s case, it seems that the wolves only slip away to not only linger nearby to cause more harm, but to continually antagonize our livelihood and future,” Sexson said.

If the standards on wolf depredations are met that could allow state officials to issue a kill order, Oregon ranchers are steadfast: They want action to be taken. “One of the problems with the Umatilla Pack, though, is they got so used to living right next to residents and killing right next to

houses. Human presence has no value to them in a situation like that. Those types of wolves need to have a reverent fear of people and their dwellings,” Nash said. “But if it does go to lethal con-trol, I hope (state officials) are effective and they take out the wolves and all of the wolves that have been part of that behavior. Anything short of that is not going to be effective management.” In the meantime, Oregon ranchers and producers will continue to do all they can to protect their liveli-hood against the growing Oregon wolf population, evident by the recent news of wolf OR-7 finding a mate and having puppies. In fact, the wolf population in Oregon is growing 33 percent per year, doubling the wolf population every two years. “We have seen the count esca-late to this point before and the results were not necessarily favorable,” Sexson said. “So, it is definitely a waiting game and we don’t have control.” Ultimately, though, Nash said the entire situation is one where nobody wins.“Wolves in Oregon are going to be in constant conflict with people in Ore-gon. We’re not only going to have dead livestock, but we’re going to have dead wolves -- legally and illegally -- and peo-ple are going to be upset on both sides. It’s not fair to the wolves, either, being in this situation.” The Oregon Cattlemen’s Asso-ciation (OCA) works to promote envi-ronmentally and socially sound industry practices, improve and strengthen the economics of the industry, and protect its industry communities and private property rights. For more information, please contact Scott Anderson at [email protected] 503-361-8941. Visit the OCA website at www.orcattle.com

With Latest Wolf Depredation, Oregon Ranchers Now Wait to See What Happens Next

ODA Awarded Federal Grant For Wolf Depredation PreventionNews release:

The Oregon Department of Ag-riculture has been awarded a $53,000 grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to be used for implementing livestock manage-ment techniques or nonlethal wolf deterrent techniques designed to discourage interac-tions between wolves and livestock. “This is great news,” says Jason Barber, administrator of ODA’s Wolf Depredation Compensation and Financial Assistance County Grant Program. “This will just about double the amount of fund-ing that will be available to county wolf pro-grams for wolf prevention in the upcoming 2015 grant period.” Currently, 11 Oregon counties have approved wolf programs in Oregon with other counties working on getting pro-grams established. These counties can then apply to ODA each March for grant funds to cover depredation losses and injury, miss-ing livestock, prevention, and administration costs. The county programs then award funds to affected ranchers in their county.According to Barber, the bulk of preven-tion monies have historically been awarded to the four counties that have a sustained wolf presence, (Wallowa, Umatilla, Baker, and Union), but could be expanded into the other seven counties depending on the type of preventative project proposed, and as the wolf range expands and livestock/wolf interaction occurs. Historically, funds from ODA’s Preventative Grant have been used for spe-cific proactive, nonlethal activities:• Reducing attractants– bone pile removal, carcass disposal sites• Barriers– fencing, fladry, electrified fladry• Human presence– range riders, herders or other guarding• Livestock protection dogs and other guarding animals;• Alarm or scare devices– radio-ac-tivated-guard (RAG) device, other light and sound making devices• Hazing or harassment of wolves– loud noises, firing shots in the air, spot-lights, or other confrontation with wolves• Livestock management/husbandry changes– changing pastures, night feeding, reduced calving period, birthing earlier, changing herd structure• Experimental Practices– bio-fenc-ing, belling cattle For more information, contact Jason Barber at (503) 986-4767.

A 72 pound female wolf of the Minam Pack, after being radio-collared on June 3, 2014. Photo courtesy of Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlifee

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Flooring Expert, Brent Moulton Opens Next Step Carpet Brent Moulton, along with his son Greg, opened Next Step Carpet in La Grande on Bearco Loop in August and they are committed to providing the very best products, as well as service, to all of their customers.

By Lori Kimbel

Whether you need a full install of carpet, vinyl, luxury vinyl, laminate, or hardwood, and even if you are a ‘do it yourselfer’ with time and ambition, Next Step Carpet is the place for you. Not only will they sell you some of the best products on the market for your project, but will offer advice where needed and some of the best quality craftsmanship in northeast Oregon. Greg has a strong background in sales, and Brent is no stranger when it comes to flooring experience. For the past 25 years Brent has served communities through-out Baker, Union and Wallowa counties, by providing and installing quality flooring solutions as an installer, as well as an overseer of installers. After years of installing carpet, a person’s knees tend to have some damage, so with a double knee replace-ment seeming immanent, Brent knew his carpet installing days were close to being behind him, he also knew he was too young to give up work all together. With his good name and reputation to back him, and two knees that were wreaking havoc on his life, Brent knew something had to be done. “When you are a carpet installer you make mon-ey when you are working. If you don’t work, you don’t get paid,” said Brent. There is no such thing as unemployment bene-fits to most small business owners. But when the thought of a flooring store came to mind, hope of a similar, yet less physically demanding way of life came into focus. Next Step Carpet soon moved from the imagination stage to a reality. “We came to the conclusion that I would move my family back to La Grande from Portland and grow the business, so dad could get off of his knees,” said Greg. “Our goal was to open a store, so we started hiring peo-ple. The cool thing is that my Dad is a big supporter of installers being able to support their families on the wage

they earn and we take pride in offering our employees a family-based wage.” “People are always going to need flooring. We train our people right; we take a lot of time with them. It is an apprenticeship pro-gram,” said Brent, who will continue to measure for each and every job. Brent and Greg currently employ four install-ers. “All of our install-ers were raised here, and they all left, looking for bigger and better things, but they all missed it here, so they have come back to this valley because we have offered them family-based wages. People shouldn’t be punished [with low wages] for wanting to live in this great area,” said Greg. “Quality craftsmen carpet layers are a dying breed. What we are doing is hiring young people and teaching them a craft, one that will support their family, which in turn will help support the community they live in.” Next Step Carpet is located at 2631 Bearco Loop. There showroom is filled to the brim with quality products at very reasonable prices. “We want to sell our customers quality products at their price point. We realize everyone has a budget,” said Greg, who assured me they are able to sell quality products, at, or below, the big box stores. With a lower price for better quality, Next Step Carpet is a great solu-tion when it comes to buying carpet in northeast Oregon. “Our mission is to serve our community in a way that uncompromisingly delivers quality service with quality materials at a price that would be competitive against those offered in much larger cities. Put simply, we want to save you that trip to Tri-Cities, or Boise, for materials and we believe there should be no price penalty for living here in our wonderful part of the world,” said Brent. “Our commitment to you is that from your very first phone call you will always work with knowledgeable and dedicated flooring professionals. I can personally guarantee that your measure will be accurate, your service more than satisfactory in execution and timeframe, and finally, that you will find our prices highly competitive.” “Other stores are limited to the products they sell,” said Greg. “We aren’t limited in any way.” .

Some of the quality brands they carry include Shaw Floors, Beaulieu, Armstrong, Mannington, IVC, Bliss Luxury Vinyl, Dansk Hardwoods, FP Bois, Montage, TAS and more. “We keep up with new technology in the indus-try and test new products until we trust them,” said Brent. In their off-time they both enjoy hunting and riding four-wheelers. Brent enjoys his four granddaugh-ters, and Greg likes to travel and his travel plans usually include checking out the competition near and far. “I like to stay on top of what is new and keep up with compari-son shopping,” said Greg. Next Step Carpet serves both residential and commercial customers in Baker, Umatilla, Union and Wallowa counties. The future looks bright for Brent and Greg. Brent’s knees are beginning to heal, without surgery so far, and Greg’s enthusiasm will surely turn into great savings for their customers. With the New Year just around the corner new flooring displays will begin arriving, which will enable them to double their showroom floor. With the new space they plan on introducing more tile and will expand on their hard wood selection. Eventually Brent and Greg plan to have semi-nars for ‘do it yourselfers’ who want to install their own flooring, but for now you can hear great tips and pointers on local radio stations 98.7, 105.9 and Super Talk 1450 am where they are the ‘Local Flooring Experts’. Yes, the future looks bright for Next Step Car-pet. I encourage you to give them a call or drop by their showroom.

The Northeast Oregon Eco-nomic Development District, based in Enterprise, Oregon, received a 2014 Innovation Award from the National

Association of Development Orga-nizations (NADO) Research Foun-dation for the NE Oregon Commu-nity Capital Collaborative project. NEOEDD is working to re-lo-calize private investment from Wall Street to Main Street. The goal is to make more capital available to local businesses by shifting a portion of the money that typically leaves the region back into local investments. NEOEDD is not focusing on accredited inves-tors but on non-wealthy people who have some investment money and care about the region in which they live. “We are looking at a number

of ways to foster local investing,” says NEOEDD Executive Director Lisa Dawson, who traveled to Denver to at-tend the NADO conference and receive the award. “We’ve already formed Local Impact Investing Opportunity Networks (LIIONs) in Baker, Union, and Wallowa

counties. We are setting up public events and educational workshops for potential investors, business owners, attorneys, and financial planners, so everyone can better understand some of the benefits and lim-itations of local investing.” NEOEDD supports the crowd-funding site Changefunder, which focus-es on projects in the Pacific Northwest. The first business featured on the site, the Lostine Tavern, raised nearly $28,000. NEOEDD’s efforts are so impressive that the master of ceremonies, John Martin, mentioned their appeal to both Baby Boom-ers and Millenials in his remarks during the ceremony in Denver on August 26. “For 28 years, NADO’s Inno-vation Awards have recognized regional development organizations for their hard work and commitment to promoting eco-nomic development in rural and small metropolitan communities across the country. Award recipients have created in-

novative solutions that build on the unique strengths and challenges of their regions, all while continuing to promote sustain-able economic growth not only now, but for many years to come,” said NADO President Peter Gregory, Executive Di-rector of the Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission in Woodstock, VT. NADO is a Washington, DC-based association that promotes programs and policies that strengthen local gov-ernments, communities, and economies through regional cooperation, program delivery, and comprehensive strategies. The association’s Innovation Awards program recognizes regional develop-ment organizations and partnering or-ganizations for improving the economic and community competitiveness of our nation’s regions and local communities. Award winners will be showcased during NADO’s 2014 Annual Training Confer-ence, August 23 - 26 in Denver, Colorado.

NEOEDD Receives NADO 2014 Innovation Award

Executive Director, Lisa Dawson, accepts the award on behalf of the Northeast Oregon Economic Development District.

BUSINESS

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Pacific Ethanol to Sell CO2 From Its Plant in BoardmanNews ReleaseSeptember 15, 2014

Pacific Ethanol, Inc. (Nasdaq:PEIX), the leading producer and marketer of low-carbon renew-able fuels in the Western United States, announced its agreement with Kodiak Carbonic, LLC to sell CO2 from the Pacific Ethanol Columbia plant located in Boardman, Oregon. Kodiak plans to construct a lique-faction and dry ice processing plant adjacent to the Co-lumbia facility and expects to purchase up to 200 tons of CO2 per day to sell to food processing and beverage producers. Neil Koehler, the company’s president and CEO, said: “The opportunity to utilize the CO2 from our ethanol production process as another co-product for sale further diversifies our revenues and improves Pacific Ethanol’s profitability. We anticipate the new CO2 processing plant in Boardman to begin operations in early 2015 and to contribute approximately one to two cents per gallon in operating income.”

About Pacific Ethanol, Inc.

Pacific Ethanol, Inc. (PEIX) is the leading producer and marketer of low-carbon renewable fuels

in the Western United States. Pacific Ethanol also sells co-products, including wet distillers grain (“WDG”), a nutritional animal feed. Serving integrated oil com-panies and gasoline marketers who blend ethanol into gasoline, Pacific Ethanol provides transportation, stor-age and delivery of ethanol through third-party service providers in the Western United States, primarily in California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Colorado, Idaho and Washington. Pacific Ethanol has a 96% own-ership interest in PE Op Co., the owner of four ethanol production facilities. Pacific Ethanol operates and manages the four ethanol production facilities, which have a combined annual production capacity of 200 million gallons. These operating facilities are located in Boardman, Oregon, Burley, Idaho, Stockton, Califor-nia, and Madera, California. The facilities are near their respective fuel and feed customers, offering significant timing, transportation cost and logistical advantages. Pacific Ethanol’s subsidiary, Kinergy Marketing LLC, markets ethanol from Pacific Ethanol’s managed plants and from other third-party production facilities, and another subsidiary, Pacific Ag. Products, LLC, markets WDG. For more information please visit www.pacificethanol.com.

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

With the exception of historical information, the matters discussed in this press release including, without limitation, the ability of Pacific Ethanol to continue as leading producer and marketer of low-car-bon renewable fuels in the Western United States; the volume and timing, including the expected commence-ment, of CO2 sales; and the contribution of CO2 sales to diversifying Pacific Ethanol’s revenue streams and to Pacific Ethanol’s profitability are forward-looking statements and considerations that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. The actual future results of Pacific Ethanol could differ from those statements. Fac-tors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, adverse economic and market conditions; changes in governmental regulations and policies; the inability to finance or implement the CO2 processing plant; and other events, factors and risks previously and from time to time disclosed in Pa-cific Ethanol’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including, specifically, those factors set forth in the “Risk Factors” section contained in Pacific Ethanol’s Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Ex-change Commission on August 14, 2014.

News ReleaseSeptember 4, 2014

Oregon has been awarded $300,000 in a third round of federal grant funding to help Oregon compa-nies promote their products to custom-ers around the world through the State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) Program. Since 2012, STEP-funded ex-port promotion grants totaling $594,000 helped 170 Oregon companies achieve immediate sales of more than $21 mil-lion. These sales were a direct result of attending trade shows and other foreign activities with the grants. These grant recipients also reported estimated future sales of more than $80 million as a result of the connections made at the shows. “Selling into these foreign mar-kets brings new revenue into the hands of small businesses, and new dollars into Oregon’s economy,” said Business Oregon Director Sean Robbins. “That’s serious ROI, $594,000 in and $21 million back in return with another $80 million potentially down the road. Pairing our staff ’s foreign market expertise with individual grants of $5,000, these com-panies have already realized an incredible return on the state and federal invest-ment.” The grants play a large partin Business Oregon’s global trade strat-egy, as do trade missions, such as one currently planned for Asia in October, where Business Oregon will join the Port of Portland and others to lead a

group to China, Hong Kong and Japan. The mission will promote Ore-gon goods and services as well as in-bound investment. Oregon’s trade with Pacific Rim remained para-mount in 2013 with significant exports to Japan and South Korea as well as Canada. Oregon exports were valued at $18.6 billion in 2013, and trade with China grew 27% over 2012, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Foreign Trade Division. The increased trade with China was highlighted by 122% growth in manufactured machinery exports and 36% growth in computer and electronic goods. The third year of STEP funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration will become available on October 1. The funding supports the participation of Oregon small business-es in international trade shows and trade missions through individual export de-velopment grants of up to $5,000. These new grant funds can be used for activities through September 2015. More information available at www.oregon4biz.com/Grow-Your-Business/Export-assistance/STEP-Pro-gram/

$300,000 in Federal Funding for Oregon Small Business Export Promotion Grants

Sean Robbins

BUSINESSIMESD One of the Top Places to Work in Oregon

The largest-ever survey of U.S. companies has identified the InterMoun-tain Education Service District as one of the best places to work in Oregon. The Top Workplaces program, run by Work-place Dynamics, LLP, and sponsored in Oregon by The Oregonian newspaper, named IMESD one of the top 30 mid-sized workplaces in Oregon based on surveys completed by IMESD employees earlier this year. The Top Workplaces program asked IMESD to be a part of the program for 2014. This is the second year in a row IMESD has been named a Top Workplace in Oregon. “I am very pleased our agency was recognized for this award for a second year in a row,” said Dr. Mark Mulvihill, Superintendent of the IMESD. “This is a true reflection of the people who work for IMESD. We are so fortunate to have the caliber of talent and commitment as we have here at the IMESD. This award is just a confirmation of what I already knew – that this truly is one of the best places to work in the state.” IMESD was compared with other similar-sized organizations in Ore-gon, and met benchmarks established by comparison data from other educational entities from across the country. A total of 85 organizations in Oregon were ranked as top workplaces in either the small, mid or large size range. Survey results showed IMESD staff feel genuinely appreciated for the work they do, and also say their jobs make them feel a part of something more mean-ingful. In addition, staff say they enjoy the flexibility they have to balance home and work life, as well as believe the IMESD is headed in the right direction overall.

“Since the Top Workplace award is based on comparison data with other educational entities, it is really encouraging to see that we rank near the top,” Mulvihill said. “It will only motivate us to continue to improve.” Earlier this year, a separate survey initiated by IMESD revealed a 96 percent approval rating from its constituent school districts – those public school districts in Umatilla, Morrow and Union counties. The IMESD has worked hard over the past several years to make im-provements in its programs and services to school districts, as well as for non-profit organizations and other public agencies. IMESD has developed solid partnerships with other regional agencies – including Blue Mountain Community College, East-ern Oregon University, Greater Oregon Behavioral Health Inc., Umatilla-Morrow Head Start and local libraries, among others – to establish new programs and initiatives to improve learning opportuni-ties for children birth through college. At the statewide level, IMESD has established itself as a regional leader. Mulvihill serves on the Governor-appoint-ed Oregon Education Investment Board. IMESD has also assisted in the develop-ment of the new Early Learning Initia-tives, as well as broke ground on access to college credits for high school students through the Eastern Promise program with BMCC, EOU and Treasure Valley Community College. “This recognition reinforces IMESD’s growing reputation as an edu-cation change agent both regionally and statewide,” Mulvihill said.The Oregonian published the full list of Oregon Top Workplaces a special section in its Sept. 14, 2014, edition. The IMESD received the award during a ceremony in Portland on Sept. 10.

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BUSINESSWholly GuacamoleThat Was Good!

- Top ThatBurgers, Wraps & More

By Lori Kimbel

The bright green and black sign of the Top That eatery in Island City seems to be somewhat of a chal-lenge, one we decided to take. We ventured into Top That, Burgers, Wraps & More, after an after-noon of traveling Northeast Oregon’s back roads, and since that day we have

gone back several times. With freshly painted walls and welcom-ing decor, we knew the potential for this becoming a favorite stop would depend on whether or not the food was delicious. It was, and Top That is my newest, favorite place to eat. Bright colored lettering on jet black chalkboards laid out a huge variety of burgers, wraps and more, all with the options of topping your entrée with a list of additional items, includ-

ing ham, bacon, several different cheeses, egg, chili, onion straws, the list goes on and on. To top even that, there is

a long list of sauces, my favorite being the sweet chili. It went great with my chicken fajita warp I final-ly settled on. So far we haven’t tried any of the desserts, since we have gotten too filled up on dinner, but I’m sure sooner, or later we will be in the mood for some ice cream and

will stop in to try it. They offer ice cream cones, floats, sundaes and cream drinks, with, you guessed it, a variety of top-pings, including homemade hot fudge. So go ahead, stop in at Top That and let them know Lori sent you. I am

sure you will find plenty of food to top your favorite dish, and Top That will become your newest, favorite place to eat as well.

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BUSINESSC & R Mercantile Will Take You Back in Time With An Eclectic Mix of Bygone Era Novelties

Images of Grandma and her friends sitting on the front porch sipping tea will easily come to mind

By Lori Kimbel

Step into C & R Mercantile at 165 SW 3rd Street in Hermiston and you will find yourself stepping into a time capsule of sorts, one filled with items from a bygone era, such as Corning Ware and Watkins. Images of grandma and her friends sitting on the front porch sip-ping tea will easily come to mind as you meander through the vintage gift shop owned and created by Cynthia Tra-ner. Upon meeting Traner it will be hard for you to believe this gentle, delightful woman was once a correc-tions officer. “I was firm, I was fair and I held them account-able,” said Traner about her seven year stint with some of society’s roughest citizens. Her gentle spirit no doubt gave them hope of a better life beyond the bars they saw on a daily basis. I must say, after visiting with Cynthia for an afternoon, I am positive C & R Mercantile suits her much better than life as a corrections officer would, not that I doubt she was anything less than kind and compassionate to the inmates she saw daily, but C & R Mercantile is a reflection of who she is from the inside out. This place has her signature all over it. From the shelf hanging on the wall that she created from a bed frame, to the counter she made out of old wood-framed windows. C & R Mercantile did not come easily however. It took some time transforming the 1948 Quonset hut into the quaint gift shop it is today. After finding, and falling in love with the rag-tag old building in April of 2010, Cynthia completely gutted the inside. With the help of her husband, who owns Traner Heating and Plumbing, a contractor friend, and Fred Carlson Electric, they slowly began making progress on the transformation of the run-down Quonset hut. The Quonset hut was originally built

to be a laundry mat. According to Traner, it was bought and ran by Nan Reeves and her husband. In the mid 70’s it was a TV and Radio repair shop. It has also been a U-Haul rental place and a beauty salon. Today, I guarantee it is more charming than it was on the first day it was built back in 1949. It is well worth the visit just to see how well this old Quonset hut has taken on and embraced its new life as Cynthia Traner’s Mercantile. “This place speaks to my heart,” said Traner. “Surrounded by sweet memories of my childhood, and of being raised by my grandmother, who was born in 1920, it is like a personal tribute to her and all the folks from that era. The stories that are shard from customers with me by folks my grandmothers age, is like having part of Grand-ma here. She has only seen the shop from heaven.” Traner has also created a small corner garden outside of her gift shop as a tribute to her grandmother.Inside the gift shop you will find Corning Ware, Watkins, aprons, vintage patterns, teapots, teacups, doilies, delicate handkerchiefs, hat pins, antique hat stands and vintage baby clothes. All of this and more are all a part of the eclectic mix of wares that are available at C & R Mercan-

tile. Sharing with other women about her creative vision and passions Traner inspires her customers to look at things in a new way. “I’m kind of like a ‘live’ Pinterest person,” she said. “Many of my customers leave here feeling inspired and knowing they can create something pretty to enjoy in their own home.” In addition to the mercantile, Traner has big plans for the area beside the Quonset hut. The Grow-ers Marketplace will be an outlet for people to sell their homemade goods. Space will be available on a day-to-day basis. Traner will also be adding History Reclaimed Archi-tectural Salvage in the near future. One cannot help but be affected by her infec-tious optimism, her zest for life and her hope for the future. “When I leave my shop I reflect on how blessed I am by the new friends made that day,” said Traner, “new relations within the community, and reassurance that God is in control and has his perfect plan for me. I start my day with prayer and praise, and end with being thankful.”

Welcome to Oregon — a state with a unique heritage and its own share of options to fit any lifestyle. Channeling the state in which they were founded, two of the region’s most iconic brands have united for a limited run of NIKEiD customization choices. From the early explorers of the Oregon Trail who inspired Pendleton Woolen Mills’ warm, wo-ven products to the tracks where Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman forged the spirit of Nike, the Pacific Northwest is ingrained with innovation. Pendle-ton® is as renown for wool shirts and blankets as Nike is for sport apparel and footwear. Their relationship modernizes a legacy of custom creations by taking their collab-oration to NIKEiD, the definitive online platform for self-expression. Pendleton® by NIKEiD shoes bring legendary craft and personal details to modern looks. Eight iconic

silhouettes — the Nike Roshe Low and Mid, Nike SB Janoski Low and Mid, Nike Air Force 1 High and Low, and the Air Max 1 Low and Mid — are available in three tartan patterns, one plaid, and four solid-color wool fabrics, 10 leathers and an array of accent colors. Pendleton’s Umatilla fabric has been the basis of their men’s

shirts since 1924. This medium weight, 100 percent virgin wool material is named af-ter Oregon’s Umatilla County, where the wool is still bought from the same family ranches that Pendle-

ton purchased from 90 years ago, with their natural benefits tried and tested over the decades. The tartans available on NIKEiD bring their own individual histories. The Black Watch Tartan (Blue/Green) is based on the pattern worn by the Scottish 42nd (Royal Highland) Reg-

iment in the 1700s, while the MacRae Dress (Grey/Red) and Robertson (Red/Blue/Green) Tartans are traditional Scottish clan patterns. Pendleton® customization for the Nike Air Force 1 Low, Nike Roshe

Low & Mid, and Nike SB Janoski Low & Mid will be available Oct. 6. The Nike Air Force 1 High and Nike Air Max 1 Low & Mid will be available Nov. 3, all of which are exclusively available on nike.com/nikeid.

N i k e a n d P e n d l e t o n ® b r i n g N I K E i D s h o e s

Wenaha Group offers Total Construction Management, General Contracting and Procure-ment and Contracting Services

By Lori Kimbel

Taking the time to listen and incorporate their customer’s goals and needs into the construction management process is just part of the reason Wenaha Group’s list of projects continues to grow. The outstanding service they provide, coupled with senior project managers of unequaled experience, are giving them a competitive edge in construction manage-ment in the northwest. With just 13 employees, and managing more than $250 million worth of construction projects, Fishel and Quaempts most definitely have their hands full. Fishel has been in the construc-tion industry for 29 years and has served in many leadership roles, including partner in a general contractor business. Rob Quaempts is a Pilot Rock graduate and an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and represents project owners in all aspects of the construction project. He is also in charge of the daily management of all business practices and project management of specific projects

throughout the Pacific Northwest. “We hire incredible employees with diverse skill sets,” explained Fishel. A canvas print, with the com-panies ‘Guiding Principles’ can be seen from every seat in their office meeting room. As I sit there I can only imagine the brain storming, the ideas and the excitement that has been gener-ated by these two men as they have collaborated time and time again over the past four and a half years. To Fishel and Quaempts their guiding princi-ples are not only displayed, but are a way of life. The ‘Guiding Princi-ples’ that guide their work, their lives, and their vision of the future are as follows: The value of community. The potential of respect. The dignity of simplicity. The strength of diversity. The wisdom of economy. The influence of humility. The importance of balance. The joy of creating. The power of collabora-tion. The success of perseverance. The

satisfaction of hard work. The worth of strong character. “We challenge our employees to think about our guiding values,” said Fishel, “it is part of our dialog.” According to Fishel both of his parents had a strong work ethic and they instilled the sense that ‘if you wanted to achieve something and you put the work into it, then you could probably achieve it’. “I feel very blessed. I am having the most fun I have ever had professionally right now. I am enjoying seeing what our team can achieve and look forward to what it’s going to look like over time.” Optimistic by nature, Fishel says he is wired for col-laboration. “It is the freedom

engine for innovation and creativity,” he said. “Rob and I both bring a unique set of strengths and perspectives to the table. I am more of a numbers guy and Rob has a strong emotional intelligence. We have very different ways of looking at things.Rob has an open-mindedness, a richness,

a depth. He changes your horizon and I ap-preciate what he brings to the team.” Recent Wen-aha Group projects include a $31 million project for the Grand Coulee Dam School District, a $16 million project for the Jeffer-son County School District, a $22 million project for the Con-federated Tribes of the Warm Springs/Jef-ferson County School District. Current projects include a $57 million project for the Pendleton School District, a $97 million project for the Yakima School District, a $1.8

million project for a Morrow County Administration building, a $1.2 million project for a USDA office building in Pendleton. Wenaha Group also has a working relationship with TriMet’s Oper-ating Projects Division in Portland as they provide the construction management services on several projects for this entity.

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BUSINESSWenaha Group and the Principles That Guide Them

Wenaha Group team member, Scott Rogers, recently became an Earth Advantage Certified Project Steward from Earth Advantage

With projects throughout the northwest Wenaha group relies heavily on the professionals of their team. Scott Rog-ers is one of those valuable team members who has been collaborating closely with the Oregon Department of Energy and the Energy Trust of Oregon to create a cohesive roadmap that will help the Pend-leton, Athena-Weston, Jefferson County, Morrow County and Milton-Freewater school districts obtain funding from these entities. “At this time we are keeping it limited to these school districts until we figure out how well it is going to work,” said Rogers According to Rogers, there are certain requirements that must be met and his role for this project for Wenaha Group is to help customers navigate their way through the specialized funding offered by the Oregon Department of Energy’s Senate Bill 1149 (SB1149) and the Energy Trust of Oregon. One requirement is that the school districts be located in a district serviced by Pacific Power and/or Cascade Natural Gas. Another requirement is that funds from the Oregon Department of Energy SB 1149 be used before funds from the Energy Trust of Oregon can kick in. Rogers’ hopes to have a more formal procedure in place by spring, which will allow them to offer their services to school districts throughout Oregon that meet the requirements. “We want school districts to be able to maximize these funds that are avail-able to them,” said Rogers. “There is a little over ten years left, of SB1149, for school districts to capitalize on this money.” According to Rogers there is an estimated $30 - $40 million available State-wide from SB1149 alone. As a board member of the Athe-na-Weston school district, Rogers is excited for what this money could mean to his district. “These are funds they already have,” said Rogers. “We could upgrade the infrastructure, maximize our return on investment, and put dollars back into the classroom. It is pretty exciting being involved in this project.”

Wenaha Group team mem-bers include Jim Houchins, a senior project manager, who has successfully managed over 3 million square feet during his 26 year career. Heath Gardner, also a senior

project manager has been involved with more than 20 schools and university projects. Senior Project Man-ager, Roger Easling has been in the construction industry for 39

years and has been instrumental in the success of nine school district construc-tion programs with Wenaha Group. Project Manager Scott Rogers is a Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) as well as an Earth Advantage

Certified Project Manager. Evan Sekulic, also a project man-ager, has been in the construction industry for 11 years and has his LEED Accredita-tion through US Green Building Council. Caryn Appler has a background in procurement, contacting and market-ing, and is a Certified Professional Public Buyer Accreditation. Appler will play a major role in Wenaha Groups marketing and social media presence. Fenya Quaempts has a strong

background in office administration and serves as a liaison for field staff, vendors and customers. Aaron Gosiak is the newest member of the Wenaha team as of Octo-ber 2014. After graduating from Linfield College he returned to Pendleton, to work for a Public Accounting Firm. He works closely with Fenya handling financial man-agement, general administrative issues, and technological solutions.

Rob Quaempts and Dave Fishel of Wenaha Group

These principles guide our work, our

lives, and our vision for the future.

The value of community

The potential of respect

The dignity of simplicity

The strength of diversity

The wisdom of economy

The influence of humility

The importance of balance

The joy of creating

The power of collaboration

The success of perseverance

The satisfaction of hard work

The worth of strong character


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TRAVEL

By Lori Kimbel

After some pre-travel exploring online, we stumbled across the Historic Gilbert Inn website and knew it was just the kind of place we needed to stay before the long cold winter of northeast Oregon sets in; we were not disappointed with our choice. The Queen Ann style home, built by Alexandre Gilbert, sits a short distance from the Seaside ‘Prom’ and the beach. The high rise condos that tower above her are no match to her elegant beauty. The gentle Oregon Coast mist greeted us as we pulled into the drive and the Gilbert Inn was all the website said it would be and more. I realized instantly the sense of history and grandeur is a much better experienced in person. The grand lobby, with its large fireplace, sitting areas and front desk were accented by the rich wood-covered walls. It was a lot to take in, and the explorer in me was loving every minute of it. A testament to old world craftsmanship, the Gilbert Inn is filled with the regions natural resources. In the basement there are old growth beams that measure 2 ft. in diameter, set atop large, foundation block boulders taken from the nearby river. In the historical wing you will find tongue and groove fir on the walls and the ceiling. The “1880’s” room is the oldest part of the house and is what remains of the original cottage. The offices, front desk area, lobby, solarium and other common areas on the main floor, make up what were once the parlor, dining area, kitchen and wrap around porch of the Gilbert’s family home.

Today, in the ‘His-toric Wing’, the second floor consists of three guest rooms, a housekeeping room and a staircase leading to the large attic “Garret” room. All of which are decorated with a mix of vintage style wallpa-per, four-poster beds, walls of old growth fir, decorative tile bathrooms and period style armoires and dressers. In 1990 five new guestrooms were added, rooms two and three on the main floor, and rooms four, five, and six on the second floor in what is known as the “Cottage Wing”. The Gilbert Inn has a total of eleven rooms for their guests today. Alexandre Gilbert was born in La Rochelle, France, on April 16, 1845. He married Emma Loncol in 1869. Three years later the two immigrated to San Francisco, where he became a carpenter and a cabinet maker. While in San Francisco, he built and established the Gilbert House, a hotel and boarding house. In 1881 Alexandre and Emma

moved to Astoria after hear-ing that land was ‘cheap’ in Oregon. He most likely fell in love with the area immediately as this part of the Oregon coast resembled his native France. Mr. Gilbert built several homes in Astoria, where he and Emma and their three children spent their winters. During the summer months

they would always retreat to Seaside where they could enjoy

bon fires on the beach, clam-digging, beach combing and the weather. They stayed at the modest two-room cottage on the beach, which Gilbert built in 1885, one that Gilbert would con-tinue to build onto until one day, in 1892, it had become a grand Queen Anne style home, known today as Gilbert Inn. One can only imagine the pride Alexandre Gilbert felt on that day, back in 1892, when he laid down his hammer,

cleaned off his paint brush, and stood in his front yard looking up at the beautiful Victorian home he had just completed for his family. The crash of the ocean waves a short distance behind him and all the splendor of his fabulous home before him (with not even one condo in sight). In 1908 the family permanently relocated to the up and coming resort town of Seaside where both Alexandre and Emma lived out the rest of their days, Emma passing away in 1917, and Alexan-dre passing away 18 years later, in 1935. Little did Mr. Gilbert realized, that the house he had constructed with his own blood, sweat and tears, would still be welcoming guests 122 years later. Although there are rumors of Gilbert being involved in some of the shanghaiing that took place in Astoria, Gilbert was a well-respected citizen of Seaside. He enjoyed dealing in real estate and he became involved in both politics and community service. He also gave con-siderable financial support to area schools and churches. He was the mayor of Seaside during the fire of 1912 which destroyed much of downtown. He was also credited for leading the charge for Seaside as it rose

from the ashes. Gilbert deeded a one and a half mile stretch of land, which is now known as the “Prom” to the city. He hoped to have a 10 foot strip of walkway and a 30 foot strip of grassy lawns for families to picnic on. As one of the founding fathers of Seaside, Alexandre Gilbert had a huge impact on Seaside, from the beauti-ful home he built, the business culture he created, the and the Prominade he envisioned, he left his mark and helped to make Seaside one of the top destinations on the Oregon Coast today. The home stayed within the fam-ily until the 1970’s. Since that time it has changed ownership several times; the most recent proprietors, Antoine and Rocio Simmons, took ownership in March 2014.

Kayak Public Transit, operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) offers free rides along seven fixed routes in northeast Oregon and southwest Washington.

By Lori Kimbel

“We are supported by CTUIR funding with state and federal grants,” said Jeanine Gordon, CTUIR Public Transit Program Manager. Kayak Public Transit currently offers seven routes connecting 14 cities within northeast Oregon and southwest Washington, including Adams, Athena, Milton-Freewater, Weston, College Place, La Grande, Mis-sion, Pendleton, Pilot Rock, Pasco, Umatilla, Walla Walla and Hermiston and Irrigon.

“We are hitting where we want to hit,” said Gor-don. “In the future we would like to add Boardman and we would also like to add more schedules during the day.” CTUIR Public Transit Program was often met with confu-sion on the part of the public. “It is supported by CTUIR, but it is for the general public,” said Gordon. Some people wondered if the CTUIR Public Transit Program was exclusive to tribal members. To clear up this confusion it was decided to rename, re-logo and rebrand the public transit program with a more inclusive image. Ridership by non-tribal members, far outweigh ridership by tribal members, according to Gordon. The Cayuse/Nez Perce word for K’ay’’k means,

“to be free of obstructions”. The picture of the kayak itself depicts a means of transportation. It was a per-fect fit for the re-branding of the CUTIR Public Transit

Program. Kim Miller of the Depart-ment of Economic and Community Development created the new Kayak Public Transit logo. Kayak Public Transit has a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/KayakPublicTransit as well as a Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/KayakTransit . These means of

communication allow for updates and information, as well as offer a forum for customer comments, concerns and ideas. Current bus schedules are available at www.ctuir.org/bus.html

All Aboard on the Newly Branded Kayak Public Transit

Historical Gilbert Inn in Seaside Offers a Peaceful Geataway

For more information on the Gilbert Inn & other

Haystack Lodging Propertiesvisit

www.haystacklodgings.com or call

(503) 436-2714

The elegance of the Gilbert Inn is a great place for couples to relax

Gilbert Inn, built in 1892 is now an eleven room couples retreat, just a few steps from the “Prom’ and the beach in Seaside. (Photos courtesy of Haystack Lodgings)

Alexandre’s and Emma’s Wedding Photograph

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PORTLAND, Ore., Sept. 9, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --

Pendleton Woolen Mills, a globally recognized American life-style company in Portland, Oregon announces that Gretchen Jones has been promoted to Womenswear Design Director. Her responsibilities include the vision, style direction, and product design for all of Pendleton’s branded women’s apparel. “Gretchen’s fashion experience and background offer Pendleton a unique opportunity,” said Peter Bishop, VP Merchandis-ing Women’s Apparel. “Through her variety of roles in the fash-ion industry and as an innovator, Gretchen brings both an inspired point of view and a strong, busi-ness acumen to the position. We congratulate Gretchen on her new role and look forward to her leader-ship in expanding the appeal of the Pendleton Women’s brand. “ PENDLETON COL-LECTION, a new contemporary assortment designed by Gretchen Jones will launch in January 2015 for the fall season. Highlights in-clude new styling, innovative fabrics and exclusive patterns designed by Jones. The woolen components of this collection are being woven in Pendleton’s own Northwest mills. Jones began her career with Pendleton in September 2013, charged with the responsibility of

creating a new line of contem-porary women’s clothing. Prior to joining Pendleton Gretchen worked as the Creative Director for two of her own labels, MothLove and Gretchen Jones NYC and as a freelance designer in a number of categories, including fashion,

footwear, jewelry and leather accessories. She is a past winner of Project Runway in 2010 and was a 2012

inductee in GenArt’s Fresh Faces in Fashion. About Pendleton Setting the standard for classic American style, Pendleton is a lifestyle brand recognized worldwide as a symbol of American heritage, authenticity and craftsmanship. With six gen-erations of family ownership, since 1863, the company celebrated 150 years of weaving fabric in the Pacif-ic Northwest in 2013. Known for fabric innovation, Pendleton owns and operates two of American’s remaining woolen mills, constantly updating them with state-of-the-art looms and eco-friendly technol-ogy. Inspired by its heritage, the company designs and produces apparel for men and women, blan-kets, accessories, home decor and gifts. Pendleton is available through select retailers in the U.S., Canada, Europe, Japan, Korea and Australia as well as Pendleton stores, compa-ny catalogs and direct-to-consumer channels including the Pendleton website, www.pendleton-usa.com.

Pendleton Woolen Mills Adds Gretchen Jones As The New Design Director for Pendleton Womenswear

BUSINESS

Press Release Oct 3, 2014 HEPPNER, Ore.--(Business Wire)--BEO Bancorp (OTCBB:BEOB) and its sub-sidiary, Bank of Eastern Oregon, announced today that they have entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Bank Reale (OTCBB:B-KRL). The combined banking operation will have about 120 employees with total assets of nearly $350 million. Jeff Bailey, President and CEO for Bank of Eastern Oregon, referred to the common philosophies shared by BEO and Bank Reale: “Our goal is to expand upon and execute the original vision of Bank Reale’s founders: To provide unequaled customer ser-vice and serve the banking needs of the local Pasco community as well as the outlying rural areas of the Columbia Basin. Bank of Eastern Oregon has served rural eastern Oregon for nearly 70 years and we are excited to expand our footprint and bring our style of banking to the region. Bank Reale has a talented group of employees that we look forward to bringing into our banking family.” Bank of Eastern Oregon, based in Heppner, Oregon, was founded in 1945 as Gilliam County Bank in Arlington, Oregon. Since that time, the bank has expanded to 12 branches and five loan production offices located in 11 eastern Oregon counties. The bank was founded by farmers and ranchers and views agricultural lending as key to its historical, as well as future, success. Fred Zack, Interim President and CFO for Bank Reale, said, “Both institutions have similar cultures and philosophies when it comes to customer service and to the employees who make great customer service happen. The consolidation of Bank Reale into Bank of Eastern Oregon is a natural fit for both in other ways as well. We will now have

access to their financial resources and added services for our existing and future customers, and they now have a platform for long-term growth in the Tri-Cities and the Columbia Basin in harmony with their core belief in supporting the communities and customers they serve.” “The banking world has seen signif-icant changes over the past five years in terms of consolidation and economies of scale. The acquisition of Bank Reale provides Bank of Eastern Oregon an excellent access to Pasco and rural southeastern Washington,” said Bailey. The transaction is expected to close during first quarter 2015, following approval by Bank Reale shareholders and final regula-tory approval. The terms of the transaction are not being disclosed but involve a combination of cash and stock. Upon closing of the acquisi-tion, the Pasco facility will operate as a branch of Bank of Eastern Oregon, doing business as Bank of Eastern Washington. Commerce Street Capital, L.L.C., and LC Financial Ad-visors, L.L.C., served as financial advisors to Bank of Eastern Oregon. McAdams Wright Ragen, Inc. served as financial advisor to Bank Reale. About BEO Bancorp BEO Bancorp is the holding com-pany for Bank of Eastern Oregon, which operates 12 branches and five loan production offices in 11 eastern Oregon counties. Branch-es are located in Arlington, Ione, Heppner, Condon, Irrigon, Boardman, Burns, John Day, Prairie City, Fossil, Moro, and Enterprise; loan production offices are located in Hermiston, Ontario, Island City, Pendleton, and Lakev-iew. Bank of Eastern Oregon also operates a mortgage division. The bank’s website is www.beobank.com.

Bank of Eastern Oregon Plans to Acquire Bank Reale

SALEM, Ore., Sept. 25, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNews-wire/

In a report released two weeks ago by the Office of Adult Abuse Prevention and Investigations (OAAPI), a shared service between the Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Oregon Health Author-ity, it was revealed for the first time that non-mandatory reporters, such as bank employees and family members, were the most frequent reporters of financial abuse. In Oregon, there are many professionals who are mandated to report suspected elder abuse while act-ing in their official capacity. However, these individuals were not the most frequent reporters. In 2013, those with a non-mandatory duty to report did so at least 60 percent of the time. When the data is drilled down, and only substantiated allegations of abuse are ex-amined, the most frequent reporters are bankers, followed by family members and law enforcement. According to Rebecca Fetters, study author and researcher, this highlights the fact that even though bank-ers are not mandatory reporters, they have taken it upon themselves to do the right thing and recognize that they,

along with close friends and family, are in a unique and important position to identify the warning signs and do something about it. To view the study in its entirety, go to: www.oregon.gov/dhs/abuse/Documents/Financial-Ex-ploitation-Oregon.pdf. Since 1995, the Oregon Bankers Association, DHS and OAAPI have led a successful public/private partnership that strives to prevent, detect and report

suspected financial abuse of seniors in Oregon. The major product of this partnership is a comprehensive bank-er’s toolkit that includes information to help bank personnel recognize and report possible elder financial exploita-tion. In 2013, the toolkit, Preventing

Elder Financial Exploitation: How Banks Can Help, was updated and re-released to every bank in Oregon. The toolkit is also available free to interested parties at www.oregonbankers.com/community/elder-exploitation-pre-vention. The 2013 DHS study revealed that financial exploitation continues to be on the rise in Oregon, with allegations increasing 18 percent over 2012. Financial exploitation now represents 42 percent of all abuse inves-tigations conducted by Adult Protective Services (APS).

National studies confirm that for every one case of finan-cial exploitation that reaches the attention of APS or oth-er authorities, an estimated 44 go unreported. The study also confirms that the major perpetrators of financial exploitation in Oregon continue to be family members, including spouses, children, siblings, and grandchildren. If you suspect elder abuse, neglect, or exploita-tion, call your local DHS office or local law enforcement. Help is available. If you are unsure who to contact, call DHS at 1-800-232-3020.

Oregon Bank Employees Strive to Prevent Financial Abuse of Senor Citizens

2013 Reporters of Financial Abuse in Oregon. *Indicates profes-sionals mandated to report. Non-mandatory reporters such as family members and bankers did so at least 60 percent of the time. (PRNews-Foto/Oregon Bankers Association)

Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.

Mahatma Gandhi

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The Pendleton UAS Range (PUR) underwent a thorough and compre-hensive audit of all processes, procedures and documents today by the Chairman and Director of the Pan-Pacific UAS Test Range Complex (PPUTRC), Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska Fairbanks. Mr. Marty Rogers and Ms. Ro Bailey, respectively, conducted an extensive doc-ument review and oral examination of the Range Manager, John Stevens and Range Operations Manager, Ian Mortensen to validate the processes developed to stand up UAS flight test operations. These processes were found to be compliant with evolving Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), PPUTRC and State regulations. As a result, Ms. Bailey and Mr. Rogers signed the Letter of Authorization to conduct UAS flight operations at the PUR using an Aeryon Scout. Since the FAA award an-nouncement, PUR personnel have worked tirelessly to put together the processes,

procedures and guidelines compliant with evolving FAA, PPUTRC and State of Oregon requirements for UAS operations. The Letter of Authorization serves as a major milestone, one of the final steps to-wards UAS test flight operations capability at the Range. “We were excited for the op-portunity to show off PUR, the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport, the great City of Pendleton and all the hard work that has gone into moving this UAS Range towards Initial Operating Capability” says John Stevens, PUR Range Manager. “We are grateful for the continued support we receive from the City and Airport as well as the hospitality they continue to show the UAS Test Site community and industry. This visit from Ms. Bailey and Mr. Rogers exemplifies the collaborative relationship required to execute UAS test operations across a team of three states, and just another example of how the PPUTRC and University of Alaska, Fairbanks’ support is moving this community one step closer

to the safe integration of UAS into the National Airspace System.” Find out what else is going on at the Pendleton UAS Range: www.Pendle-tonUAS.com Peak 3, Inc. manages the Pendleton UAS Range and is a Veteran owned, small business headquartered in Anchorage, AK. Peak 3 is a multi-facet-

ed Unmanned Aircraft services compa-ny that uses their extensive experience across manned and unmanned aviation to provide exceptional operations, logistics, training and program development solu-tions for their customers. Find out more about Peak 3 at www.Peak3Inc.com or @Peak3Inc. Peak 3 is an Equal Opportuni-ty Employer.

BUSINESS

Pendleton UAS Range Receives “Letter of Approval” by Pan-Pacific Test Range Complex

Stringent Standards Govern Adult Foster Care Homesby Trish Yerges

Caring for the elderly or disabled in an adult foster home (AFH) is a popular alternative to more expensive residential communities if you are looking for a home-like environment with a much higher caregiver to resident ratio. Anyone contemplating this field of work should be aware that there are about 150 pages of administrative rules required by the Department of Human Services, and they must submit to at least annual inspections of their home, prac-tices and records in order to renew their license each year. Since there are no federal stan-dards set for micro-communities such as these, Oregon has set its own admin-istrative rules and licensing standards. For the complete list, see www.dhs.state.or.us/policy/spd/rules/411_050.pdf or http://www.oregon.gov/dhs/spd/pages/provtools/afh-apd/overview.aspx Every care home structure is different, but there are structural stan-dards that all AFHs must meet. Likewise, all providers have different levels of skill, experiences and backgrounds but all must meet state standards to be licensed. One retired AFH operator, Ann Hill of La Grande, operated an adult fos-ter care home from her personal residence for about 19 years before retiring in 2011. “In 1992 when I first started, 75 percent of first-time foster care homes failed within the first six months of oper-ating,” said Hill. “You have to prove you have a sufficient amount of capital to keep your business going. I recommend that anyone thinking about entering this kind of business work in an adult foster care home first.” Hill provided excellent care for 5 residents in her home during those years, but she stressed over the annual inspec-tions that encompassed an entire business

day. “The residents and owner get stressed during these inspections,” said Hill. “It was so much better when I first began this business, when the state was not micro-managing everything. That’s one reason why I eventually retired. The state kept creating more and more rules for adult foster home owners. When the inspectors told me they would be dropping in each month to inspect, I thought that’s too much. I quit.” Another AFH provider in Elgin, Norm Hayes of Blue Mountain Care Home, has had AFH experience off and on since 1986. He and his wife, Melis-sa, currently care for 5 residents in their home. “We’re a class 3 residential home which is licensed to take in residents that need the most care,” said Hayes. “We also work with Hospice Care.” Hayes, like other AFH provid-ers, received this year’s latest edition of administrative rules issued by the State of Oregon. “We received several pages of new, corrected or changed rules,” said Hayes. “We get these every so many years. The changes are usually in bold type so you see right away what they are. I noticed that the medical portion that must be filled out by a doctor is now more extensive for licensing than it used to be. The state also wants a full accounting of your checking account and savings account.” To find residents to fill a AFH, some operators like Hayes advertise or print brochures and make personal visits to doctors and clinics to let them know their home has vacancies for residents. “In 1992 when I first started, I filled up quickly,” said Hill. “But in later years, I suspected that the hospital was not referring their patients to the adult foster home places as much as they were the larger facilities.” One factor that attracts residents to AFHs is the lower costs.

“If the resident is on Medicaid, the state determines what they will pay,” said Hayes, “but if the resident is a private payer, then the price is whatever the market will bear. That could be between $2,000 and $3,000 a month (for an AFH). The larger facilities may charge between $7,500 and $9,000 per month. Adult foster care homes get about 1/4 of what the larger facilities are paid.” Hayes said the advantages of an AFH over the larger facilities centers around the care itself. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the median ratio of residents to caregivers is 14 residents to every 1 care-giver. “In an adult foster care home, there are 4 or 5 residents to every 1 care-giver,” said Hayes. “Plus when an AFH

resident calls for help, we’re there in 10 or 15 seconds.” One challenge facing all AFHs in Union County is the lack of skilled help. Hayes has his wife to assist him, but find-ing a third party to help out when needed is not always easy. “There isn’t a large pool of home healthcare workers available in Union County to hire when we need them,” said Hayes. This work isn’t for everybody. It requires someone who likes to be home a lot and someone who enjoys caring for other people. Those who care for others are a special breed of people. “It’s a lot of work,” said Hayes, “and it’s not easy money, that’s for certain. I’m a home body, and I like to cook and take care of people, so this works for me.”

The Blue Mountain Care Home in Elgin is owned by Melissa and Norm Hayes, holding therapy dogs Bridgett and Abby. The home is shared by residents seated at the table Darlene Berry, Fred Rose and Barbara Goin and cared for by Melissa and Norm Hayes and home heathcare worker Joy Heighes.

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Intel, Elemental Technologies, Symantec, and eBay are among the 200+ Ore-gon Companies Calling for Action on Climate

Sep 23, 2014(Portland, OR) – Today, Oregon’s technology companies joined the growing list of businesses that have signed onto the Oregon Business Cli-mate Declaration, including Oregon’s largest private employer, Intel, and one of Oregon’s fastest growing com-panies, Elemental Technologies. The Oregon Business Climate Declaration highlights opportunities to spur local economic development and job cre-ation while curbing carbon pollution. Technology companies in Oregon are concerned about climate change because of the impact it could have on their future ability to conduct business in the state, including clean water availability, certainty around energy costs, and the ability to recruit and retain talent. “Technology companies around the globe are competing for top talent, and right now Oregon has a distinct advantage with its strong focus on lifestyle and livability,” said Skip Newberry, President at Technol-ogy Association of Oregon. “Main-

taining a healthy environment is key to our excellent quality of life which allows us to recruit and retain the very best talent.” Over 200 companies from a diverse group of industries and com-panies around the state have signed the Oregon Business Climate Dec-laration. Together, they understand that it will take more than a public declaration to impact climate change policy in Oregon. Some compa-nies plan on engaging actively in the policy discussions at the state level on climate change. Others are already taking action independently, including Elemental Technologies, headquar-tered in Portland, Oregon. Along with signing the Oregon Business Climate Declaration, Elemental has decided to take another step of purchasing renewable power from Pacific Power and PGE for its three Portland locations “Elemental is a proud signer of the Oregon Business Climate Dec-laration,” said Sam Blackman, CEO and Co-Founder. “Beyond our com-mitment to support climate change policy in Oregon, we believe it is critically important to walk the talk as well and take definitive steps to reduce our company’s carbon footprint.” “At Symantec, we are con-

vinced that a strong coalition of gov-ernments, businesses, and civil society organizations is required to effectively address climate challenges,” said Ce-cily Joseph, Vice President Corporate Responsibility .“We encourage others to sign the Oregon Business Climate Declaration, and show their support for developing innovative solutions that protect our planet while enabling continued economic growth.” Technology company signatories include: eBay, Elemental Technologies, eRoi, FMYI, Inc, Intel, Symantec, Technology Association of Oregon and Vernier Software & Technology. Businesses may sign on to the Oregon Business Climate Decla-ration by going to: climatedeclaration.us/oregon. The Oregon Business Climate Declaration is a companion to the Climate Declaration launched in 2013 by Ceres, a nonprofit sus-tainability advocacy organization, and its business network, Business for Innovative Climate & Energy Policy (BICEP). The Climate Decla-ration has more than 1000 signatories nationwide. You can see the full list of national companies here and the Oregon companies here.

OUTDOORS

September 15, 2014

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Rewarding landowners for converting farmland into forest will be key to sequestering carbon and providing wildlife habitat, according to a new study by Oregon State University and collaborators. Current land-use trends in the United States will significantly increase urban land development by mid-century, along with a greater than 10 percent reduction in habitat of nearly 50 at-risk species, including amphibians, large predators and birds, said David Lewis, co-author of the study and an environmental economist in OSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences. “One of the great challenges of our time is providing food, timber and housing, while also preserving the environment,” said Lewis. “Our simulations show our growing appetite for resources could have cascading effects on wild-life and other vital services provided by nature.” “Policymakers have tools to increase tree cover and limit urban sprawl, such as target-ed taxes, incentives and zoning,” he added. Paying landowners $100 an acre per year to convert land into forest would increase forestland by an estimated 14 percent and carbon storage by 8 percent by mid-century, the re-searchers say. Timber production would increase by nearly 20 percent and some key wildlife spe-cies would gain at least 10 percent more habitat, they added. Yet this subsidy program would also shrink food production by 10 percent and comes with an annual $7.5 billion price tag, said Lewis. Another policy option – charging landowners $100 per acre of land that is defor-ested for urban development, cropland or pasture – would generate $1.8 billion a year in revenue. More than 30 percent of vital species would gain habitat. Yet carbon storage and food production

would shrink slightly, according to the study. “Price drives how most landowners decide what to do with their property,” Lewis said. “Some choices have market values – such as selling food and timber – and yet others, like sequestering carbon, do not earn money for land-owners, who then have less incentive to provide them.” “To reverse loss of habitat and boost carbon storage, the government could provide compensation for services the free market does not currently offer,” added Lewis. However, researchers found neither the tax nor subsidy plan would limit the growth of urban sprawl. Instead, they simulated a prohibition on new urban development – such as building new housing and commercial properties – in rural and non-metropolitan areas. By 2051, the policy would decrease urban growth by 24 percent in the researchers’ simulation, but it would result in smaller gains in habitat and carbon storage than the tax and subsidy. “There are inherent tradeoffs involved in any policy,” Lewis pointed out. “More urban land comes at the expense of wildlife habitat, and more carbon storage could reduce food production. Understanding these choices can help us prepare for the different shapes our landscapes may take in the future.” Co-authors of the study include re-searchers from the University of Wisconsin-Mad-ison, University of Washington, University of Minnesota, University of California-Santa Barbara, Bowdoin College, Florida International University, and the World Wildlife Fund. The study was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sci-ences. Funding was provided by grants from the National Science Foundation, and the U.S. Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station.

Land Policy Changes Would Sequester More Carbon and Conserve Habitat

Science Review of State Forest Management Options ReleasedNews ReleaseSeptember 4, 2014

A scientific review of stake-holder-proposed options to manage state forests in northwest Oregon was released today by the Oregon Department of For-estry.Following continued declines in budget projections, the Board and Department of Forestry are considering new options for managing Northwest Oregon state forests, with twin goals of improving financial viability of the State Forests Division, and increasing conservation outcomes from state forests. After convening a stakeholder advisory group, hear-ing from county and technical advisory groups, and facilitating an extensive public process including community conversa-tions and online feedback, the Board as-signed a diverse group of forestry scientists to review how stakeholder-proposed forest management options penciled out scientifi-cally. Their findings were released this morning and can be found, with names of the group members, here: http://goo.gl/eizuvv “Today, we’re pleased to release a thoughtful and comprehensive body of work,” said Liz Dent, State Forests Division Chief. “This group showed what can happen when a diverse collection of scientists comes together to hash out com-plex forest management issues. Ultimately,

they arrived at a product that we’re pleased to pass on to the Board to inform next steps in plan development in the coming months.” A subcommittee of the Board will formulate an overview of the elements of the new forest management plan on Sep-tember 29 in Salem. Following the subcom-mittee’s decision, State Forests Division staff will open a public feedback survey in October to gather public feedback and inform the Board of Forestry’s decision on

this overview in November. A final plan is expected for a Board decision in summer 2015. Prior to September 29, two public meetings are sched-uled to review findings. These meetings will take place on Sep-tember 17, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., and September 22 at the same time, both in the Tillamook Room, Building C, ODF Headquarters,

2600 State Street, Salem. Weigh in! Take the October public feedback survey and stay current on the latest state forest news by joining the State Forests Online Community: http://bit.ly/1cwZnnD The Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the gover-nor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include appointing the state forester, setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other prac-tices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30 million-acre forestland base.

Oregon Technology Companies Commit their Support for State Climate Change Policy

LIGHT TRUCK CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

Last January, they expanded into a larger shop with more bays to accommodate 7 vehicles and 3 lifts for cab removals. The cab lifts allow Luke and his part-time employee to work more freely on the truck’s engine and serve more customers. At their new location, La Grande Light Truck also added a new service to their business, spray-in Qwik Liner bedlining. The liners come in 6 different colors of tough, polyurea lining, and Luke does the work himself. He’s already performed Qwik Liner work for the city of La Grande. “The city was putting together an armored vehicle, a SWAT-like vehicle, and we donated our time and our resources to spray the whole inside of it,” said Heidi. “We’re scheduled to spray the outside too. They were thrilled with it.” In addition to the city, La Grande Light Truck has gained a lot of commercial customers, fleet vehicles besides individual truck owners, farm-ers and ranchers. “I credit this to Luke’s know-how,” said Heidi. “The diesel field is very specialized and not everyone can wrap their heads around it. Luke’s knowledge of the inner workings of the Cummins, Duramax and Powerstroke diesel engines is phenom-enal.” La Grande Light Truck is open Mondays through Wednesdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursdays and Fridays by appointment. They may be reached anytime at 541-910-6625.

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News ReleaseSeptember 2, 2014

The Oregon Department of Agriculture is launching a new grant program and looking for innova-tive project proposals that prevent or reduce pesticides entering waters of the state. As part of Oregon’s Pesticide Stewardship Partnership (PSP) Program, approximately $160,000 is available to those interested in submitting collaborative project proposals that produce a broad range of benefits for Oregonians and the state’s environment. In announcing the program, ODA is collabo-rating with other state agencies involved with the PSP Program, including the Oregon Department of Environ-mental Quality (DEQ), the Oregon Department of For-estry (ODF), the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB). Those eligible to apply for funding include agriculture industry associations, producer groups, commodity commissions, non-profit and for-profit organizations, community orga-nizations, institutions of higher education, soil and water conservation districts, watershed councils, tribal entities, and federal, state, county and local government agencies.

Proposed projects must focus on preventing and/or reducing the risk posed by pesticides entering water systems in agricultural, urban/rural residential, or forestry environments. For a project to be considered eligible for funding, work must take place in or collaborate with an existing PSP watershed-based project (See http://www.deq.state.or.us/wq/pesticide/docs/OregonPSPmap.pdf for a list of current PSP watersheds.) Written propos-als must be received by Tuesday, September 30, 2014 at 12:00 noon Pacific Standard Time. Proposals may be submitted for a project within the suggested funding range of $10,000 to $50,000, and for a project timeline of up to two years. The PSP Program has identified the following 2014 Grant Program funding priorities: Prevention/reduction of the frequency and concentration of pesticides in waterCollaborations that leverage expertise and funds in ways that reduce the input into water Demonstrations of application technology that reduces off-target movement of pesticides or increases on-target application efficiency and cost savings. Implementation of proven Integrated Pest Man-

agement (IPM) principles. Outreach and education programs that empha-size the proper use of pesticides. Demonstration projects and workshops that link behavioral changes – or the implementation of best prac-tices – to reducing/preventing pesticide contamination of water. Projects that demonstrate how to reduce pesti-cide runoff or drift into waterways. Oregon’s Pesticide Stewardship Program grant program is a competitive process. An interagency team will evaluate proposals and make recommendations to ODA Director Katy Coba on the selection of the top project proposals. Projects chosen to receive funding will be an-nounced by November 2014. ODA staff is available to provide applicants with additional information on the 2014 PSP granting process and requirements. Grant guidelines, applications, direc-tions on submitting proposals, and other information are available at http://oregon.gov/ODA/programs/Pesti-cides/Water/Pages/PesticideStewardship.aspx or by con-tacting Steve Riley, ODA’s Pesticide Stewardship Specialist (503) 986-6485.

Pesticide Stewardship Partnership Grant Funds Now Available

The ODA Introduces New Magazine

News release September 11:

The Oregon Department of Agricul-ture announces the premiere issue of a new magazine, Growing Oregon: A guide to the state’s agriculture, food and markets with the publication targeting potential buyers of the state’s products. The magazine provides a comprehensive look at Oregon farmers, ranchers, and fishermen as well as food processing. The publication also pairs with a website

that provides a digital magazine and tablet friendly versions. ODA has worked with nationally recognized publisher Journal Communications to produce the magazine. No public funds were used in the production of the magazine, which was supported through advertising by Oregon commodity commis-sions, agricultural organizations, and private companies. “With the tremendous diversity of our agriculture and fisheries, we have a lot to offer for those interested in buying our products,” says ODA Director Katy Coba. “Growing Oregon will be a great resource and marketing tool to showcase the business of Oregon food and agriculture. I believe it will be well received and I’m excited to see the response.” The 53-page magazine features original photography, reader-friendly charts and graphs, and profiles of individual farmers, ranchers, fishermen, and companies. Articles focus on Oregon’s top agricultural sectors as well as innovations in technology and research. ODA will use the magazine in direct mailings, trade shows, consumer venues, and to connect with Oregon’s decision makers. Copies will also be distributed to Or-egon businesses and organizations connected to agriculture and fisheries. “We will distribute the magazine to a variety of audi-ences that we are confident will want to purchase Oregon food and agriculture products,” says Coba. “The publication can also be a great supplement to a company’s or organization’s own marketing and promotional efforts.” Growing Oregon will debut at three events where potential buyers of Oregon’s agricultural products and industry influencers will gather. These events, happening the week of September 15th, are Fine Food Australia in Melbourne, which is Australia’s largest food industry expo; Feast Portland’s media room reaching food writers from across the US; and 15 food service, retail, and baking industry buyers from China seeking products from Oregon. ODA plans to make the magazine an annual publica-tion.

USDA Announces Close and Findings of Investigation into the Detection of Genetically Engineered Wheat in Oregon in 2013; Opens New Investigation Into Separate Detection of GE Wheat in Montana in 2014

WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2014— After con-ducting a thorough and scientifically detailed investigation into the detection last year of genetically engineered (GE) wheat growing in a single field on a single farm in Oregon, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has concluded that the presence of the GE wheat appears to be an isolated incident. The GE wheat found on the Oregon farm was developed by Monsanto to be resistant to the herbicide glyphosate, also known as Roundup. APHIS closed the investigation after exhausting all leads. The agency also found no evidence of GE wheat in commerce. APHIS is releasing today its findings and full report of investigation and evidence file, with appropriate personal information and confidential business information redacted. Additionally, APHIS has opened a new investiga-tion into a regulatory compliance issue involving GE wheat found growing at a research facility that was the previous site of authorized field trials in Montana. GE wheat was field-tested under APHIS’ regulatory approval at the Mon-tana State University’s Southern Agricultural Research Cen-ter (SARC) in Huntley, Montana, between 2000 and 2003. Genetic testing shows that the GE wheat at this research facility location is significantly different from the GE wheat found growing at the Oregon farm last year. APHIS has not deregulated any GE wheat variet-ies to date, and thus, there are no GE wheat varieties for sale or in commercial production in the United States. Addi-tionally, the genetic trait detected in the wheat in these two instances does not present a food safety issue because FDA completed a food safety consultation for this GE wheat in 2004 and expressed no food safety concerns. Oregon Investigation APHIS began its comprehensive investigation into the detection of GE wheat on the Oregon farm on May 3, 2013. During the following 10 months, APHIS conducted 291 interviews with wheat growers, grain elevator operators, crop consultants, and wheat researchers, and collected and carefully reviewed thousands of pages of evidence. Additionally, APHIS collected more than 100 samples from businesses that sold and purchased the same certified seed planted in the field in Oregon, as well as from businesses that purchased the harvested grain from the grower. The investigation indicates that this appears to be an isolated occurrence and that there is no evidence of any GE wheat in commerce. Information collected during the investigation was instrumental in providing critical informa-

tion to trading partners to keep foreign wheat markets open. After exhausting all leads, APHIS was unable to determine exactly how the GE wheat came to grow in the farmer’s field. The investigation also found that the GE wheat is not a commercial variety of wheat. Instead, the genetic char-acteristics of the GE wheat volunteers are representative of a wheat breeding program. A copy of the 12,842 pages that comprise the complete report of investigation and evidence file that has been redacted for personal information and confidential business information is available on the APHIS website at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/foia/efoia.php. Montana InvestigationOn July 14, 2014, APHIS was notified that suspected GE wheat had been discovered growing at the Montana State University’s Southern Agricultural Research Center (SARC) in Huntley, Montana, where Monsanto and researchers grew GE wheat as part of field trials between 2000 and 2003. These field tests were conducted under APHIS’ regulatory approval. APHIS immediately began an investigation into this regulatory compliance issue and sampled wheat at the SARC. Testing of the samples by a USDA laboratory confirmed that the wheat is genetically engineered to resist Roundup. Further genetic testing shows that the GE wheat collected from the field in Montana was not the source of the GE wheat found growing in the single field in Oregon. Among other things, APHIS’ ongoing investiga-tion is focusing on why GE wheat was found growing at the research facility location. GE wheat from the facility has not been allowed to enter commercial channels this year and GE wheat grown as part of authorized field trials at this research facility between 2000 and 2003 was likewise not allowed to enter commercial channels. None of the wheat is sold as seed. APHIS will provide more information when it concludes its investigation. Next Steps As it continues its investigation in Montana, APHIS is also taking several additional steps to ensure that unintended GE wheat is not growing in other locations in the United States where field trials are taking place or have recently occurred. APHIS will inspect field trials planted in 2014, and follow-up with post-harvest inspections to ensure those conducting the field trials adhere to APHIS’ requirements to monitor for, and remove, volunteer plants (plants that grow in a field following a previous harvest). It will also conduct some post-harvest volunteer monitor-ing inspections of GE wheat field trials that were planted in 2012 and 2013. Beyond this, APHIS is assessing other measures – such as the requirements it puts in place for field tests involving GE wheat, as well as the frequency of its inspections of field test sites – to minimize the potential for any further incidents involving GE wheat.

AGRICULTUREInvestigation Closes on Genetically Engineered Wheat Found in Oregon

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SAIF’s latest dividend injects $165 million into Oregon economyMore than 44,000 employers will receive the dividend, which brings the total amount SAIF has returned to Oregon businesses since 2010 to nearly $800 million.September 10, 2014

When the SAIF Board of Directors de-clared a $165 million dividend today, it boosted the amount that the Oregon workers’ comp company has returned to customers in the past five years to nearly $800 million. More than 44,000 employers around Oregon will receive the dividend; the amount they receive depends on the premium they paid in 2013. Examples of what the dividend means to SAIF customers and the Oregon economy: More than 700 of SAIF’s largest customers will receive an average of $98,645 each. The total amount of SAIF policyholder dividends since 2010 is $795 million. $795 million is enough to hire 17,663 workers (based on the 2013 average annual wage in Oregon). As a not-for-profit public corporation, SAIF doesn’t have shareholders, and therefore can return more to its customers through dividends and incen-tives such as safety programs. “This is the largest policyholder dividend in SAIF Corporation’s history,” said John Gilkey, SAIF’s Interim President and CEO, “and it will benefit thousands of Oregon businesses and the Oregon economy. “For employers, the dividend is one of many advantages to making workplace safety and wellness a priority,” Gilkey said. The dividend is possible because of low-er-than-anticipated claims costs and strong returns on SAIF’s investments. Checks will be mailed to qualifying SAIF customers in October. In July, SAIF returned another $8.5 million to Associated General Contractors members that participate in a workplace safety program.

OREGON BUSINESS

Huge, Delectable Variety of Treats; Exciting, Interactive Store Envi-ronment; Complete Business Startup & Success Package Make Schwiet-ert’s an Ideal Small Biz Opportuni-ty in Recession-resistant Industry CANNON BEACH, Ore., Sept. 19, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Schwietert’s Cones & Candy, the family-owned candy store with more, is now offering turnkey franchise opportunities in 23 states, giving entrepreneurs around the country the chance to launch a proven-success-ful, destination sweet shop in their community. A family-owned and oper-ated business, Schwietert’s has been a Pacific Northwest candy shop favor-ite since 1985 with three locations in and around Cannon Beach, Ore-gon. Specializing in salt-water taffy, homemade fudge, ice cream and a wide selection of premium coffees, retro sodas and gummy candies, Schwietert’s is also the destination for old-fashioned and hard-to-find candies and treats. “A visit to Schwietert’s is a sweet experience for all ages,” said CEO Jeff Schwietert. “It’s more than just a candy shop – it’s an adventure for the senses with the scent of luscious chocolates and fresh-roast-ed coffee filling the air, the sight of homemade fudge and caramel apples being hand-dipped on-site, and the experience of walking into this vibrant, lively store complete with a Candyland-style boardwalk and huge

gumball-filled Roman pillars welcom-ing you inside.” Designed as a destination experience, perfect for travel hot spots and other high-traffic areas, a Schwietert’s Cones & Candy franchise provides a very modern, sleek and vibrant guest experience. Huge cotton candy clouds, overhead dripping-chocolate visual effects and retail fixtures in a rainbow of colors create a fun and exciting atmosphere with just a hint of nostalgia that instantly puts a smile on guests’ faces. “It’s an incredibly fun business to run—you get to make people happy every day, and not too many businesses give you that kind of opportunity,” Schwietert said. “Not to mention, the candy business is extremely resistant to market and economic conditions. Candy is a timeless business, a guilty pleasure that virtually anyone can afford in almost any situation, and might even bring a smile to someone’s face when they really need it. From a market standpoint, it’s a very resilient busi-ness and shows no signs of slowing down.” A Schwietert’s Cones & Candy franchise includes assistance with site selection, financing options, marketing and complete store design and branding, along with extensive training and support to launch and operate a successful location. Most franchisees can be up and running in as little as four months, each with designated areas of primary responsi-bility to avoid market saturation and maintain the destination appeal. Each franchise license includes a business plan, compliance documents, oper-ations manuals, marketing strategy

and more to help both new and experienced franchisees grow with industry-standard best practices. Schwietert’s franchisees make their own fudge, caramel apples, caramel and cheese popcorn on-site, with handmade chocolates and up to 80 flavors of salt-water taffy shipped fresh from the Schwiet-ert’s confectionary in Cannon Beach. Each location features as many as 40 flavors of the top ice cream brands in the region, plus a large selection of gummy candies, Jelly Belly® jelly beans, retro candies and a wide vari-ety of retro sodas mixed and served on-site. To launch and manage the franchise program, Schwietert’s has partnered with Francorp, the world’s leading franchise development firm that’s helped more than 2,000 com-panies expand franchising opportu-nities to entrepreneurs around the world over the last 38 years. To learn more or get started with a Schwietert’s Cones & Candy franchise today, visit www.schwiet-erts.com or call 503.436.1470.

About Schwietert’s Cones & Candy A sweet experience for all ages, Schwietert’s is a family-owned ice cream, candy and confectionary store based in Cannon Beach, Ore-gon. Founded in 1985 and offering a wide selection of homemade fudge, chocolates, espresso/coffees, retro candies and sodas in a vibrant, excit-ing environment, the second-genera-tion business offers complete turnkey franchise opportunities in 23 states. For more information, visit www.schwieterts.com.

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Photo courtesy of Julee Ward Photography

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Press ReleaseSeptember 15, 2014

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in partnership with the Associ-ation of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), today launched a global design challenge seeking creative ideas on how best to use the crushed ivory from the U.S. Ivory Crush to raise public awareness of wildlife trafficking and help reduce demand for elephant ivory and other illegal wildlife products. In November 2013, the Service destroyed some six tons of elephant ivory – all seized as a result of law enforcement investigations and at U.S. ports of entry – to send a clear message that the United States will not tolerate ivory trafficking and the devastating impact it is having on ele-phant populations, particularly in Africa. “Crushing the Service’s stock of confiscated elephant ivory was a signal to the world that the senseless and brutal killing of elephants must stop,” said Ser-vice Director Dan Ashe. “Now, the design challenge invites the public to use their creativity and ingenuity to reinforce that message. At the same time, the initiative underscores the important role the public can play in reducing consumer demand for elephant ivory and other illegal wildlife parts and products.”

“The Association of Zoos and Aquariums and its members are proud to partner with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on the crushed ivory pro-bono design challenge, and will be actively encouraging and engaging the public to participate in this historic USFWS crowdsourcing effort,” said Jim Maddy, President and CEO of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). “Together, AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums reach more than 180 million visitors, and are committed to a sustained effort to stop the demand for ivory. The crushed material resulted from the tragic and unnecessary death of so many elephants, but we hope we can use the material in a powerful way to educate the public, while also including them in our efforts to protect this endan-gered species. We look forward to hearing the ideas the public comes up with over the next month.” “The U.S. ivory crush in No-vember sparked ivory destruction events by nations across the globe,” said Cristian Samper, President and CEO of the Wild-life Conservation Society. “This design challenge shows the continuing leadership of the USFWS and AZA in efforts to address the elephant crisis.” The design challenge invites interested members of the public from the United States and other countries,

including students, aspiring artists, conser-vationists, advertising agencies and design professionals, to submit design ideas for the use of the crushed ivory as a public awareness and educational tool. A panel of conservation, design and marketing experts will review all entries that meet the competition requirements, and select a winner. The winning design will both incorporate the crushed ivory and create a compelling, thought-provoking and infor-mative tool to raise awareness and educate the public about the illegal elephant ivory trade. The winning entry will be produced and replicated for use in public spaces such as zoos, aquariums, airports, schools and other public facilities, as appropriate, across the United States. The final design will also be available for replication by other countries that have crushed their ivory stockpiles and want to send a sim-ilar message or stand as an example for countries wishing to hold their own design challenge. For complete instructions and design requirements for this design challenge, go to www.fws.gov/ivorychal-lenge. For all questions regarding the crowd-sourcing initiative go to [email protected]. Elephant poaching for ivory has escalated into an international crisis,

with tens of thousands of elephants now being slaughtered each year. With revenues totaling many billions of dollars, wildlife trafficking is estimated to be the fourth largest transnational crime in the world. The United States ranks among the top transit points for illegal wildlife products and must play an active role in addressing this issue of global importance. For more information on the Service’s efforts to combat wildlife traf-ficking, go to www.fws.gov/international/wildlife-trafficking. The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wild-life, plants, and their habitats for the con-tinuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov/. Connect with our Facebook page, follow our tweets, watch our YouTube Channel and down-load photos from our Flickr page.

Design Challenge for Crushed Confiscated Elephant Ivory

PORTLAND, Ore., Sept. 16, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --

Artist Dale Chihuly, Chihuly Workshop in Seattle, Wash. and Pendleton Woolen Mills, a globally celebrated American lifestyle brand, have created three new Pendleton blanket designs for 2014. Inspired by designs from Chihuly’s Navajo Blanket Cylinders series, Chihuly blankets celebrate the patterns, colors and Native American traditions evident in his work. “My first serious use of glass consisted of my weaving small pieces of glass into tapestries,” said Chi-huly. “This was during my junior and senior years at the University of Washington in the early sixties. After study-ing weaving and textiles, I wound up falling in love with both Navajo blankets and Pendleton trade blankets. As a student, I began to collect the intricately designed Pendle-ton blankets. This was the beginning of my involvement with Native American design.” Inspired by the geometric designs and colors of Pendleton blankets, Chihuly and his team began creat-ing drawings out of glass threads in the 1970s. Using a newly-developed technique, the team carefully arranged the threads and picked them up onto the surface of hot molten glass, which led to the creation of the Navajo Blanket Cylinder series. In 2002 this series inspired the creation of Chihuly’s first blanket, blanket No.1. Chihuly Workshop is pleased to announce the latest limited edition blankets in the series, Chihuly Blan-kets Nos. 7, 8 and 9 woven at Pendleton’s original mill in Pendleton, Oregon. “Pendleton is proud to collaborate with Chihuly in creating these exquisite, limited edition blankets. Chi-huly’s design inspiration, along with the legendary crafts-manship and quality of Pendleton blankets, are a perfect and rewarding combination for any customer,” said Bob Christnacht, Pendleton’s director of sales - worldwide. An impressive statement hanging on a wall, or warm and practical folded in a chair; these limited edition blankets are perfect for collectors and make a memorable gift. These 64 x 80” blankets are a blend of pure wool

with a cotton warp. A sewn suede patch includes the Chihuly signature and number in the limited edition of 250. Chihuly Blankets are available for purchase online at chihulyworkshop.com and in select retail stores. For more information, or to learn more about retail opportunities for Chihuly Blankets in your store, please call 1.800.574.7272.About Dale Chihuly Chihuly is credited with revolutionizing the Studio Glass movement and elevating the perception of the glass medium from the realm of craft to fine art. He is renowned for his ambitious architectural installations around the world, in historic cities, muse-ums and gardens. Chihuly’s work is included in more than 200 museum collections worldwide including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Corning Museum of Glass. Major exhibitions include Chihuly Over Venice (1995-96), Chihuly in the Light of Jerusalem (2000), de Young Museum in San Francisco (2008), the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (2011) the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond (2012) and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (2013). Chihuly Gar-den and Glass opened at Seattle Center in 2012. For more information, please visit the Website, Facebook andTwitter.About Chihuly Workshop Chihuly Workshop celebrates artist Dale Chihuly’s innovation, imagination and bold creative spirit. Originally established in 1992 as Portland Press, a small company dedicated to publishing books about Chihuly’s art, it eventually began to produce and distribute Studio Editions and prints. Over the years, Chihuly Workshop has extended its scope by collaborating with Chihuly on a range of projects from books, films, and stationery to limited edition blankets produced by Pendleton Woolen Mills.About Pendleton Setting the standard for classic American style, Pendleton is recognized worldwide as a symbol of Amer-

ican heritage, authenticity and craftsmanship. With six generations of family ownership since 1863, the compa-ny celebrates 150 years of weaving fabric in the Pacific Northwest in 2013. Pendleton owns and operates two of America’s remaining woolen mills, constantly updat-ing them with state-of-the-art looms and eco-friendly technology. Inspired by its heritage, the company designs and produces apparel for men, women, blankets, accesso-ries, home décor and gifts. Pendleton is available through select retailers in the U.S., Canada, Europe, Japan, Korea and Australia, as well as Pendleton stores, company catalogs and direct-to-consumer channels including the Pendleton website, http://www.pendleton-usa.com.

THE ARTSPendleton Blanket Designs Inspired by Dale Chihuly

Blanket No. 7 New for 2014 Photo courtesy of Scott Mitchell Leen

Submission deadline for 2015 anthology set for January 31

Since 2000, Honoring Our Rivers has show-cased Oregon student writing and artwork focused on rivers and watersheds. From poetry to prose and fiction, from illustration to photography, students from across the state submit their work to a juried-review process and finalists appear before the public in an annual anthology and at exhibits, events and readings hosted by Honoring Our Rivers. Oregon schools, teachers, academic advi-sors, community youth programs and homeschoolers are encouraged to promote student submissions before the project’s upcoming January 31 postmark deadline. Last year, over 900 students submitted entries to the anthology, and we distributed 4,000 copies to Oregon schools and libraries! This year, Honoring Our Rivers is working to further increase the number and diversity of submissions from around the state. The project is open to all Oregon students from kindergarten to 12th grade as well undergraduate students. All schools and students are recognized for their participation. The Honoring Our Rivers anthology is released to the public in April, in time

for Earth Day, and a release celebration is held in May at Powell’s City of Books in Portland. Additional readings and exhibits will follow throughout the summer and fall. “Honoring Our Rivers is a highly motivat-ing learning project,” says Tom Webb, former project director for HOR. “Not only do students learn about Oregon’s legacy of rivers, they take part in the process of submitting to a publication for public consideration, a real-world writing and art practice. HOR also supports teachers’ efforts to meet state standards in the arts, En-glish and earth sciences.” Student work in the Honoring Our Rivers’ anthology appears alongside submissions from Oregon’s leading writers. Previous anthologies have included work by Ursula Le Guin, Brian Doyle, Barry Lopez and for-mer Oregon poet laureate Paulann Petersen. Honoring Our Rivers is a project of the Wil-lamette Partnership, a 501©3 nonprofit organization. 2014-15 sponsors include the Eugene Water and Electric Board, Wildwood Mahonia, and the Port of Portland. Partners include SOLVE, Love Your River, The Fresh-water Trust, Sustainable Oregon Schools, Friends of Straub Environmental Learning Center and the Oregon Poetry Association.

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Honoring Our Rivers Welcomes Student Writing and Artwork

THE ARTS


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