Member News

Beus Brothers Farm Market is now operating at Columbia Gardens Wine & Artisan Village through December 2020.

The temporary stand has seasonal produce from area growers, gourmet specialty food products, meats, grass-fed turkeys for Thanksgiving and will end the year with Christmas tree sales.

“We love the vision of Columbia Gardens,” said owner Curt Beus. “We have a long history of growing and selling local agricultural products and look forward to being a part of this development.”

The farm market at Columbia Gardens is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days per week at 320 E. Columbia Gardens Way off East Columbia Drive in Kennewick.

Experts say we are in for a busy wildfire season this summer and the American Red Cross needs volunteers to help in our community.
 
 “The coronavirus pandemic will make it challenging to deploy trained disaster volunteers from other parts of the country should an emergency occur. In light of this, the Red Cross is asking you to be ready to help your community,” said Alex Dieffenbach, Northwest Region CEO. “Train now to be a Red Cross volunteer and answer the call to help if the need arises here in our region.”
 
Full information on volunteer opportunities is available here.
 
SHELTER HELP NEEDED There is a special need for volunteers to support sheltering efforts. Because of COVID-19, the Red Cross is placing those needing a safe place to stay in emergency hotel lodging when possible. If hotel stays aren’t possible, then the Red Cross will open traditional shelters. To help keep people safe, we have put in place additional precautions and developed special training for our workforce.
 
We need volunteers to help staff shelter reception, registration, feeding, dormitory, information collection and other vital tasks to help those we serve. We have both associate and supervisory level opportunities available. 
 
HEALTH SERVICES SUPPORT NEEDED If you are an RN, LPN, LVN, APRN, NP, EMT, paramedic, MD/DO or PA with an active, current and unencumbered license, the Red Cross needs your support. Volunteers are needed in shelters to help assess people’s health. Daily observation and health screening for COVID-19-like illness among shelter residents may also be required. RNs supervise all clinical tasks.
 
Roles are also available for Certified Nursing Assistants, Certified Home Health Aides, student nurses and medical students. We need volunteers who can provide care as delegated by a licensed nurse in shelters. This could include assisting with activities of daily living, personal assistance services, providing health education and helping to replace medications, durable medical equipment or consumable medical supplies.
 
FURRY FRIENDS NEED HELP TOO When people leave their homes during an emergency, they take their pets with them. The Red Cross is looking for established partner organizations to support the pet sheltering effort.
 
FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING If you are interested in helping our community should a disaster occur, please go to redcross.org/volunteertoday or contact our area Volunteer Recruitment Specialist, Lynne Calmus at lynne.calmus@redcross.org or 509-316-1845.
 
Be sure to review the CDC guidance for people who are at higher risk for severe illness, consult your health care provider and follow local guidance. Our number one priority is the health and safety of our employees, volunteers and the people we serve.

Last week the Washington State Library (WSL) announced Mid-Columbia Libraries (MCL) was selected to receive a $3,000 grant to advance access to digital equity in the Mid-Columbia. Provided by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the funding will be used by the library to purchase personal protection equipment (PPE) to expand digital inclusion efforts and provide technical support, especially for workforce development and broadband availability.

MCL will use the grant to purchase hand sanitizer, face masks, sneeze guards, and other PPE supplies.

The WSL received the funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to support libraries in responding to the coronavirus pandemic. In March, Congress provided the federal agency a total of $50 million in the CARES Act to distribute to states and territories.

IMLS Director Crosby Kemper III said, “COVID-19 has not only created a public health emergency, but it has also created a deep need for trusted community information, education, and connection that our libraries and museums are designed to provide. Access to and use of all kinds of health, job, government, educational, and community resources are necessary to weathering the current situation, beginning efforts to reopen, and sustaining our institutions.”
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“Federal funding for libraries in the CARES Act is a vote of confidence in libraries’ ability to deliver vital community services,” said Kyle Cox. “We are grateful for the support shown for libraries during this critical time. As we begin to prepare for curbside services and reopening, Mid-Columbia Libraries continues to look for creative and sustainable ways to empower our communities through library services. ”

Chuck DeGooyer, chief executive officer of the Tri-Cities Cancer Center the past 7 years, today announced his retirement, effective December 31, 2020. DeGooyer was an original leader in the creation and development of the Cancer Center in 1994, when the organization was formed as a partnership of the three Tri-Cities hospitals. DeGooyer left to work as an executive with the American Cancer Society for a period of 10 years, but returned to the Cancer Center to serve as CEO in 2013.

“Chuck has made an indelible mark on cancer care in the Tri-Cities, providing vision, leadership and inspiration to the entire cancer center organization,” said Reza Kaleel, chair of the Cancer Center board of governors. “We are grateful for Chuck’s dedication to guiding the organization the past 7 years.”

DeGooyer feels the timing is right to step away. “I’ve been a part of this amazing organization for close to two decades in total. I’m proud of all that has been accomplished in building this center into a world-class facility where our community can receive the cancer treatment and support they deserve close to home.”

DeGooyer has also been instrumental in the recent transition of the member structure of the Cancer Center. Earlier this year, Lourdes Health and Trios Health departed as members of the Cancer Center, leaving Kadlec as the sole not-for-profit member.

With this new member structure in the formative stages, the Tri-Cities Cancer Center board of governors will be working through defining the future structure of the center and starting the search for DeGooyer’s successor. The Cancer Center board has engaged an independent consulting group to help determine the best path forward.

Together with his wife Michelle, Chuck looks forward to retirement, to be able to spend more time with family and friends, especially their grandchildren. But he’ll certainly miss the people with whom he partnered to bring excellent cancer care to patients in the region. “My colleagues and our patients is what I’ll miss most. I look forward to seeing cancer care in our community continue to advance and grow to serve the needs of the Tri-Cities and surrounding region.”

First-Class Team. World-Class Treatment You Deserve. We are YOUR Tri-Cities Cancer Center. To learn more about the Tri-Cities Cancer Center, please visit www.tccancer.org.

On behalf of a fundholder at Three Rivers Community Foundation, the Knights Community Hospital Equipment Lend Program (KC Help) received a $40,000 donation to support their work. For over 20 years, KC Help has provided in-home medical equipment to residents across Benton and Franklin counties, at no cost. 

“Our fundholders are all amazing and compassionate people, that’s why they work with 3RCF to plan their perpetual charitable giving,” says Abbey Cameron, Executive Director at Three Rivers Community Foundation. “Occasionally circumstances arise where a fundholder has an opportunity to make a major gift. In this case, the donor was clear they didn’t want any recognition. Instead, they wanted to highlight the services of 3RCF and the great work of KC Help. We applaud their generosity to a great organization like KC Help.”

Often, following a medical crisis or injury, an individual will be discharged but need special equipment to heal or function at home. Their doctors will prescribe equipment for their recovery that is not available through Medicare/Medicaid or the patient’s insurance. KC Help provides, free of charge or obligation, the necessary basic hospital-type equipment or physical limitation support equipment needed for convalescence or life enrichment. The program does not receive any federal or insurance funding, therefore, there are fewer restrictions. The only requirement is a medical need.  

The program has grown, from helping a few people per month, to helping over 2400 people per year. Clients of KC Help range from children to the elderly who have chronic or terminally ill conditions. Supported heavily by volunteers and equipment donations from the community, the KC Help facility has a robust stock of hospital beds, wheelchairs, scooters, commodes, toilet risers, lift chairs, Hoyer lifts, bed trapezes, safety poles, walkers, canes, crutches, air mattresses, shower chairs, and transfer benches. Clients simply come to the KC Help facility in Pasco at 324 W. Margret St. to get what they need.  If unable to come to the facility, KC Help will work with clients to deliver, setup, and pick up equipment.

The COVID-19 crisis caused a short disruption to their services, as KC Help closed for three weeks to upgrade their protocol to meet State and CDC guidelines for an essential service. This involved procuring PPE, establishing new procedures for equipment receiving and distribution, arranging curb-side service, signage, and most importantly setting up an enclosed trailer to fog all equipment coming into the facility so that equipment being subsequently distributed was sanitized free of the virus. KC Help has worked with care and ingenuity to maintain the safety of their clients, volunteers, and staff. KC Help was able to re-open quickly, so necessary medical equipment could get to those who needed it in this time of crisis. 

Jerry Rhoads, CEO of KC Help, reflected: “KC Help has operated on a shoestring budget since its conception. So much of the credit goes to those who have supported us throughout the years.  Like the gospel story of the loaves and the fishes, whenever we seem to be facing a hardship, someone like our current generous donor comes through to keep us able to stay afloat. I marvel at how we have grown to serve so many. This donation will help us retire a portion of our debt and provide us operating funds to weather this pandemic. KC Help is a community treasure. We are humbled to stand in service with you.” 
 
To learn more about KC Help visit www.kchelp.org 
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Three Rivers Community Foundation assists charitably minded individuals with plans for perpetual giving as well as facilitating annual grant making to support our local nonprofit community. To learn more visit www.3rcf.org. 

Gesa Credit Union has been selected as Washington’s Best-in-State Credit Union by Forbes. 

Forbes and Statista, a market research firm, identified America’s Best-In-State Credit Unions based on an independent survey of more than 25,000 consumers. Respondents were asked a variety of questions regarding their banking relationships and were asked to rate credit unions on criteria such as overall satisfaction, trust, digital services, and financial advice. Of the nearly 5,200 credit unions in the nation, only 3.5% of credit unions were placed on the ‘Best-in-State’ listing.

As a member-owned credit union, Gesa was built to support our members and the communities we serve. An example of this can be seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. To meet our members’ needs, Gesa created many programs allowing members to extend loans without penalty, receive a fee-free mortgage forbearance, or utilize low or zero interest personal loans. Additionally, Gesa immediately contributed over $100,000 back to the community by way of donations to non-profits providing assistance to those in need. To support Gesa member businesses, gift cards were purchased to thank first responders and assist members in need.

“Being a responsible community partner and a true advocate for our members’ financial wellbeing are some of the core values we live by as an organization,” added Don Miller, President and CEO of Gesa Credit Union. “This achievement is a reflection of our members’ loyalty and commitment to excellent service by our team. We are extremely honored to receive this recognition.”

Gesa Credit Union was also recently named ‘Best Credit Union’ by the Tri-City Herald in their annual ‘People’s Choice’ awards. This was the eighth year in a row Gesa has received this honorable distinction. For more information about Gesa Credit Union’s commitment to members and communities they serve, visit gesa.com.

Mid-Columbia Libraries’ (MCL) Othello Branch opens today for curbside pickup services. It is the first of MCL’s 12 branches to offer curbside pickup since temporarily closing in March due to the statewide stay home order; all other MCL branches and Bookmobile remain closed until further notice.

Customers can place books and materials on hold by visiting the library’s online catalog or by phone. Once customers receive notice that their items are ready for pickup, they can park on the right side of the alleyway just off Main Street next to the branch, located at 101 E. Main St., and call the phone number on the blue sign, (509) 546-8020. A staff member will collect held library items, check them out, and deliver them to customers waiting outside. Customers should open their trunk and wait inside their vehicle. Customers are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings when using curbside pickup services.

The service is available during regular branch hours, Monday through Friday from 11 am to 7 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm. For more information visit the branch web page at midcolumbialibraries.org/branch/othello.

Books and materials can also be returned to the branch using the drive-up returns box, also located in the alley next to the building. Returned items will be quarantined for 72 hours.

Cardholders can access thousands of eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines, streaming video, and more 24/7 at midcolumbialibraries.org.

Petersen Hastings, an independent registered investment advisory firm, headquartered in Kennewick, WA, announced today the opening of a new office in Walla Walla, WA. The office is located in the historic downtown Drumheller Building at 5 West Alder Street, Suite 317. With the expansion announcement, comes the addition of a new wealth advisor. Petersen Hastings is excited to welcome John Keyes to their team. 

“Our firm continues to grow, and we are excited for the opportunity to expand our footprint to Walla Walla and be located in the heart of this community,” said Scott Sarber, CEO & President. “Investing in this new location will allow us to better serve existing relationships in the region and connect with new clients who value fiduciary expertise and a high standard of client service.”

About Petersen Hastings
Originating in 1962, Petersen Hastings has grown to be one of the largest independent, fee-only wealth management firms in Eastern Washington. As a primary fiduciary, Petersen Hastings serves committed investors with complex financial needs by utilizing a comprehensive wealth management process that involves investment management, advanced financial, tax, trust and retirement planning. Petersen Hastings has continued to provide each and every client with a team experience through the Trusted Financial Path™. To learn more about Petersen Hastings, visit www.petersenhastings.com or call us at 509.735.0484.

About John Keyes
John was born and raised in Walla Walla. He is passionate about continuing his career in his hometown by working with local individuals, families and businesses to address their financial challenges and guiding them to financial prosperity. John is a 2005 graduate of Whitman College, and he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics while competing on both the Whitman men’s golf and swim teams. He maintains his connection with the college by serving as an active board member of the W-Club. John will reside in Walla Walla and lead our new location as a wealth advisor.

For additional information, contact Scott Sarber at 509.735.0484 or scotts@petersenhastings.com.

Cover your face and maintain your space. That’s what local elected officials are encouraging the Tri-Cities community and greater Mid-Columbia region to practice in a new public service announcement (PSA) in effort to lower the transmission rate of COVID-19 in the region.

Benton and Franklin Counties, the cities of Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, West Richland, Benton City and Prosser partnered with Visit Tri-Cities to create the PSA encouraging the residents of the Mid-Columbia region to adopt the wearing of face coverings. According to the Benton Franklin Health District, if everyone who is able to wear a face covering in the community does so, the region’s transmission rates will drop. This will allow Benton and Franklin counties to move into the next phase of the Safe Start Washington plan. In addition, the use of social distance and good hand hygiene will also support lowering transmission rates. These steps are essential to help restore community health, the preservation of business, jobs, our economy and quality of life in the Mid-Columbia.

The PSA is available to be shared with the community and may be found on Visit Tri-Cities’ YouTube page. Local agencies, businesses and individuals are encouraged to share the message on social media, websites and/or any method of communication.  

The next seminar in Pacific Northwest National Laboratory’s Community Science and Technology Seminar Series, “Effectiveness of Habitat Restoration in the Lower Columbia River and Estuary” presented by Nikki Sather, Research Scientist at PNNL Sequim, will take place on Tuesday, June 23, 2020, at 7:00 p.m., via Zoom.

Estuaries provide critical habitat for threatened and endangered juvenile salmon. Habitat restoration is often implemented with goals focused on providing benefits to juvenile salmon, yet few projects are comprehensively studied to understand how restoration affects juvenile salmon. To evaluate the effectiveness of habitat restoration, we studied fish and invertebrate communities at eight tidal wetlands in the lower Columbia River and estuary. Our research evaluated biological responses at newly restored wetlands and compared these findings to nearby reference wetlands. Biological conditions were more favorable in reference wetlands for some monitored indicators. While there were distinctions between newly restored habitats and more mature habitats, the subtlety in differences suggest that restoring wetlands are achieving their desired goals and supporting ecological processes that provide benefits for juvenile salmon.

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory’s Community Science and Technology Seminar Series was launched to help the general public better understand and explore how science transforms our world. 

Those who are interested can register here.