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 Story submitted by Pacific West BankRooted in Heritage, Growing Together: Pete’s Mountain Vineyard & Winery and Pacific West Bank Celebrate Community and CraftIn the late 1850’s, Pete A. Weiss, an immigrant from Bastille, France found the perfect lot of land overlooking the sunny Willamette River Valley and had visions of a new life. Pete worked the land from sunup to sundown and brought forth Pete’s Mountain. There is a near perfect micro-climate, located above the confluence of the Tualatin and Willamette rivers, where the fog hangs heavy on fall mornings. Pete’s Mountain combines cool nights and warm days for ideal grape growing conditions, where they are able to craft premium wine due to the unique aspects of their terroir. In 1998, Kristy and Mike Thayer purchased 20 acres on Pete’s Mountain, overlooking the beautiful Willamette Valley to build a family home. They planted 16 acres of Pinot Noir and named their first Pinot Noir wine after their oldest daughter. With the support of their community, they built a family business through word of mouth, quality service and hospitality, making beautifully balanced wines at a premium value price. Fast forward to 2024, they now grow and make seven different varietals of wine. They have farmed the land and made wine for 19 years, growing live certified sustainably farmed grapes. Today they sell over 40,000 bottles of wine annually. The wines are all named after family members; Kristina’s Reserve Pinot Noir, Haley’s Block Pinot Noir, Elijah’s Reserve Cabernet, Tristan’s Estate Syrah, Carson’s Reserve Chardonnay, Tommy’s Sauvignon Blanc, and Ceille’s Block Pinot Gris. They are incredibly proud that all four of their children are involved in the family business at Pete’s Mountain Vineyard & Winery. They hold their wine makers in the highest regard and through an ardent process they align their values, hopes and dreams. Their philosophically believe that half of the quality wine making happens in the vineyard and the other half occurs at the winery. “You have to grow great grapes in order to make great wine.” Their winemakers oversee the growing process with their vineyard managers, constantly offering input regarding process and timing which directly influences the grape quality. From harvest to release, each vintage and each varietal is nurtured and handcrafted into the best wine they can make. “We are blessed with bountiful vineyards and winemakers that care about each bottle. From vine to wine, to you.” “It is a privilege and pleasure to serve the banking needs of Pete’s Mountain Vineyard and Winery,” says Pacific West Bank Senior Vice President Michele Baker. “As a community business bank, it is gratifying to see the growth and success of our clients, and to support their changing needs over the years. Mike and Kristy are wonderful stewards of their business and of the beautiful land and bountiful harvests they care for so deeply. We are proud to showcase their wines at our bank events and introduce them to other clients who are always excited to meet the people behind their well-known and loved wines. Mike and Kristy have welcomed our bank teams, Rotary and Chamber members, and so many local vendors and partners at their wonderful tasting room and event center, always happy to share the blessings of Pete’s Mountain with the community. “ “Working closely with Pacific West Bank has helped us grow our business,” said Kristy and Mike. “Their personal service and support have allowed us to continue to grow and prosper. Over the last ten years, Pacific West Bank has provided innovative strategies and guidance that have proven to be invaluable.” “The future looks bright!,” Kristy and Mike added. “We look forward to continuing to share the magic of Pete’s Mountain Vineyard & Winery. We invite you to visit our vineyard and tasting room to experience our hospitality and enjoy some of the best wines in the Willamette Valley.”   Story submitted by Oregon Coast BankYou’re a Stranger Here But OnceFor almost 80 years, Mo’s restaurants have been virtually synonymous with the Oregon coast. The story begins in 1940, when Mohava (Mo) Niemi and her dad bought the Bay Haven Inn on Newport’s bayfront. In 1946 they sold the tavern and Mo joined her friend Freddie Kent to start a café called “Freddie & Mo’s.” A few years later when Freddie became ill, Mo purchased her friend’s interest in the café and shortened the name to the now familiar “Mo’s.”
Call her crusty and colorful, but Mo had a big heart and a warm hospitable personality. The “little joint on the waterfront” soon became popular with the local fishermen, generations of visitors, even the rich and famous including Governor Tom McCall, Senator Robert Kennedy, Senator Mark Hatfield, Paul Harvey, Henry Fonda, Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward, to name just a few. Because the line of people waiting for tables typically spilled out the front door, Mo’s Annex was added in 1968, right across the street. In 1972 Mo’s West at Devil’s Punchbowl in Otter Rock opened. By the late 70’s and early 80’s, Mo’s had expanded to Lincoln City overlooking Siletz Bay, Florence on the Siuslaw River, and to Cannon Beach overlooking the ocean. Although she didn’t receive her first paycheck until the age of 12, Cindy McEntee began working at her grandmother’s restaurant at a much earlier age. Within months after Cindy’s high school graduation, Mo hired a business education company to teach her granddaughter restaurant management. That arrangement lasted just a short time until Mo decided that she should be the one to teach Cindy the ropes. Dylan McEntee and Gabrielle McEntee are tasked with nurturing the legacy of the family business today, but Cindy still has a strong presence. A big part of Mo’s family atmosphere is the company’s family of employees. With benefits including a retirement plan, major medical insurance and HSAs, Mo’s employees tend to be long term; some have been with the company for more than 30 years. While classics like fish & chips and oyster shooters remain best sellers, Mo’s continues to innovate adding new popular items like fish tacos, seafood cioppino, and seafood alfredo. It is, however, Mo’s clam chowder that has made the restaurant famous. Mo’s Chowder Factory produces thousands of gallons of the delectable concoction a year, some for the restaurants, some which is shipped as fresh chowder base that can be purchased online or through its charitable fundraiser program. The company also offers its own cans of troll-caught albacore tuna. When asked the secret of Mo’s success, Cindy, Gabrielle and Dylan mention three of the family’s business philosophies. “Our customers know what to expect. We take very good care of them, keep our prices affordable for families, and give back to the community.” If you’ve never experienced Mo’s, we urge you to – the restaurant’s success is for good reason. But what will impress you most is the hospitality, for in Mo’s own words, “You’re a stranger here but once.”  Story submitted by Lewis & Clark BankGriffith Rubber Mills: Partners for Bouncing BackIn the heart of Portland’s NW Industrial area, Griffith Rubber Mills stands as a stronghold in the region’s manufacturing industry, as well as a testament to the enduring significance of rubber in our daily lives. Walking through the factory, one can feel the palpable tension between the storied past and the pull of the future. Jennifer Laney, President of Griffith Rubber Mills, encapsulates this dichotomy as she leads the company with a vision that bridges tradition and innovation.
Currently a family and woman owned business, Griffith Rubber Mills began its journey as a roller and belt company, supplying the market with industrial rubber products since 1911. Today, they are focused on producing custom rubber products. The company continues to be a vital player in the rubber manufacturing industry. The factory’s machinery is a fascinating blend of analog giants—what Jennifer fondly refers to as “big playdough machines”—and cutting-edge, automated technology. This juxtaposition highlights the company’s commitment to preserving essential old-school techniques while embracing modern advancements. Jennifer acknowledges the challenge. “It is a challenge to honor our legacy but still be perceived as ready for business in 2024,” she says. The company’s ability to innovate without losing sight of its roots makes her the perfect steward of this legacy. Griffith’s resilience was particularly tested during the pandemic. “I thought the hardest I ever worked was 2009-2010 during the recession, but Covid really topped that.” Recognized as an “essential business,” Griffith’s HR and management team had to navigate unprecedented challenges to keep operations running smoothly. This included mandatory surveys, remote communication, and prevention measures, ensuring their continued success. “It was miserable for everyone, but we overcame it, and actually improved our relationships with our customers. We came out stronger” she reflects. Consider not allowing 10 bad parts per million as the standard for success. Despite their numerous awards for quality work, you won’t find them displayed on the walls of Griffith Rubber Mills. Jennifer believes in focusing on future goals rather than past achievements. “If you are too focused on what you’ve done, you won’t be focused on what you need to do.” This mindset is crucial in an industry where quality control standards are paramount. Supplying to major trucking, bus, rail, and defense companies means delivering near-perfect products consistently. The company’s culture is another source of pride for Jennifer, and for her that is a better place to celebrate their wins. Hiring the right people is critical, and Griffith Rubber Mills takes a holistic approach. They value well-rounded individuals with fulfilling lives outside of work, fostering a cooperative and positive work environment. “Our team is a very collaborative bunch, and we would all prefer to do extra rather than work with people that are not a good fit,” Jennifer states. This culture is why employees stay, some for over 40 years, across their four sites in Portland, Eugene, and Indiana. Griffith Rubber Mills’ relationship with Lewis & Clark Bank is a vital part of their recent success. During the pandemic, their long-time national bank failed to prioritize their needs for PPP resources. Frustrated with being bounced between representatives, being deprioritized because of their size, and having been a client since the 1960s, CFO Clay Trumbo turned to Lewis & Clark Bank, which processed their PPP request in just 48 hours. “Lewis & Clark Bank made it more about us than the size of our company,” Clay says. “The bank’s ongoing support and education on available programs and financing opportunities, such as the SBA, have been invaluable to Griffith Rubber Mills.” Jennifer added, “Griffith’s approach to finding the right bank is no different than finding the right employees. It is essential to our success. Lewis & Clark Bank has proven to be a good fit.” As Griffith Rubber Mills continues to navigate the complexities of the modern manufacturing landscape, Jennifer Laney’s leadership ensures that the company remains anchored in its rich history while striving towards a dynamic future. The balance of old-school values and innovative practices positions Griffith Rubber Mills not just to survive, but to thrive in the years ahead. Story submitted by Citizens BankA Dream Rooted in the CommunityPartners Erin Stephenson and Brian Shea launched their boutique lodging company in 2010 with the 3rd Street Flats, a fusion lodging concept blending the best aspects of hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals in McMinnville. They wanted to give travelers the opportunity to settle in and feel like they are living as a local when they visited the community.
With the success of 3rd Street Flats, Erin and Brian started focusing on their dream of creating a small, independently owned and operated luxury hotel that was underpinned with the heart and the soul of the community. “So often hotels become an island of the other,” says Erin. “We wanted to give our guests a sense of who we are and give them the chance to connect with what makes McMinnville such a great community.” The Atticus Hotel, located in the heart of Historic Downtown McMinnville, opened in 2018 and has grown to become a gem of the Willamette Valley’s expanding tourism industry. Relationship Built on Trust Erin and Brian credit their partnership with a community bank like Citizens Bank and their relationship with their banker, Teresa Smith, as playing a vital role in bringing their dream to fruition. “When you have a project of this scope, you spend so much time with your banker,” explains Erin. “You must develop a deep sense of trust and a strong relationship because this is the person that's going to lead you through the process. They're going to problem solve with you and help you come up with creative solutions along the way.” “When we met with Teresa, she told us that she really believed in our business,” remembers Stephensen. “She liked what we were doing and was going to believe in us when we’re small because she believed someday, we were going to be big.” Local, Local, and Local. The Atticus boasts 36 original rooms and because of their relationship with Citizens Bank, Erin and Brian were able to be creative and add some out-of-the-box elements. Each room in the hotel is different, from the upholstery on the custom-made couches to the hand-painted wallpaper. No detail is overlooked, and every guest gets a truly unique experience. They made a concentrated effort to source locally. Erin estimates that roughly 85% of everything inside the hotel is from Oregon. The majority of their light fixtures were made in Portland, mattresses were manufactured in Newberg, all their couches and chairs were manufactured in Tigard, and all their wine and nuts come from farms in the Willamette Valley. The artwork throughout the hotel also comes from local artists. The Guests Notice There were times when Erin and Brian wondered if every little detail would even be noticed. Would guests care that each room had a different knocker, or that there are live plants in each room? It turns out that people did care. In 2023, the Atticus was named the number six hotel in America by the TripAdvisor’s Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Awards and earlier this year they were one of only four hotels in Oregon to be awarded a Michelin Key. “It's incredible the number of reviews and guest surveys we get back from people who travel for a living or have traveled all over the world, and they’ve stayed in so many luxury hotels and they can't quite put their finger on it, but there's something that's just really different here,” says Erin. Teamwork Leads to Success The Atticus Hotel project, from beginning to end, was a cohesive team with one goal. Erin credits their relationship with Teresa and Citizens Bank for helping guide the project to fruition. “Every time there was a roadblock, we would sit down with Teresa and figure out a solution to make it work... and it’s still working today.”  Krisell and Scott Steingraber Story submitted by People's BankKriselle Cellars: From Hobby to Award-Winning WineryNestled in the picturesque landscape of Southern Oregon, Kriselle Cellars is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence in winemaking. What began as a hobby for Scott and Krisell Steingraber has blossomed into a celebrated winery, producing award-winning wines and fostering a vibrant community of wine enthusiasts.
Scott’s journey into winemaking started while working for a heavy construction company. A transfer to Walnut Creek, California, near the renowned Napa and Sonoma valleys, provided the perfect opportunity for Scott and Krisell to explore the world of wine. Weekend trips to local wineries ignited a passion that would eventually lead to the creation of Kriselle Cellars. The next chapter took the couple to Salt Lake City, Utah, where Scott made his first wine using grapes from Colorado. Determined to master the craft, he enrolled in weekend classes at UC Davis, one of the premier institutions for viticulture and enology. These classes equipped Scott with the knowledge and skills needed to take his winemaking to the next level. The move to Gig Harbor, Washington, marked a significant turning point. Scott began sourcing grapes from the Willamette Valley and southern Oregon, investing in essential equipment like a destemmer/crusher and a basket press. His dedication paid off as he started winning awards and collecting accolades. Despite these successes, winemaking remained a hobby, not yet a commercial venture. The true genesis of Kriselle Cellars came when Krisell’s parents retired and purchased a 200-acre ranch in Southern Oregon. Their vision was to create a commercial vineyard and winery, and they saw Scott as the perfect person to bring this dream to life. Ready to retire from construction, Scott embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm. The first vintage of Kriselle Cellars was produced in 2009, marking the beginning of a new chapter. Over the years, Kriselle Cellars has garnered numerous awards, recognizing the quality and craftsmanship of their wines. Scott’s active involvement in Southern Oregon wine organizations has been instrumental in promoting the region as a world-class wine destination. Today, Kriselle Cellars produces between 4,000 to 7,000 cases per year, distributing their wines statewide. Their wine club boasts members from across the United States, reflecting the widespread appeal of their offerings. Starting a winery is no small feat, especially considering the capital-intensive nature of the business. Scott and Krisell knew they needed financial support to manage cash flow and grow their vineyard and wine making business. Initially, they approached larger banks but found them uninterested in supporting a small startup. An advisor suggested they try a community bank, leading them to People’s Bank. At People’s Bank, they met Jason Reno, who, thanks to his own experience with a family farm, understood the unique challenges of an agriculture and wine-based business. Jason recommended a credit line loan guaranteed by the SBA, which provided the necessary funding to support their growth. His guidance and support were invaluable, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, when navigating government assistance programs became crucial for survival. Kriselle Cellars continues to thrive, thanks in no small part to the partnership with People’s Bank and Jason's dedicated support. The winery’s success is a reflection to the power of community and the importance of finding the right partners to achieve business goals. Scott and Krisell’s journey from hobbyists to successful winery owners is an inspiring story of passion, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence. “For those looking to start their own business, we highly recommend working with People’s Bank and advisors like Jason Reno and Mandy Hurley. Their commitment to supporting clients and understanding their unique needs has been instrumental in the success of Kriselle Cellars.” Kriselle Cellars is more than just a winery; it’s a story of dreams realized, challenges overcome, and a community brought together by a shared love of wine. As they continue to expand their footprint and share their exceptional wines with the world, Scott and Krisell remain dedicated to their craft and grateful for the support that has helped them along the way.  Brooke Fredericks Story submitted by Oregon Pacific BankRight at Home Southern Oregon: Building Trust and Strengthening CommunityRight at Home Southern Oregon is a family-owned, in-home care agency founded by Jim and Brooke Fredericks in 2011. After searching for the perfect place to raise their family, the Fredericks settled in Southern Oregon, where they’ve built one of the region’s premier home care agencies. Right at Home provides skilled nursing and home care services, helping individuals live independently while offering families peace of mind.
“Our goal has always been to create a care agency based on the values of family, community, and quality of life,” says Brooke. “It’s more than just providing in-home assistance—it’s about being a care partner for families and helping them navigate their journey.” As their business grew, Brooke and Jim sought a banking partner who could offer personalized service and understand the unique needs of a local business. That’s when they turned to Oregon Pacific Bank. With its strong community roots and relationship-driven approach, Oregon Pacific Bank has provided Right at Home Southern Oregon with the tools and support necessary to streamline operations and grow their business. “Choosing Oregon Pacific Bank was an easy decision,” Brooke explains. “I wanted a bank that was reliable and focused on relationships, and that’s exactly what we found. Their team understands the challenges of running a small business and is always there to help.” One service that has made a big difference for Right at Home is Oregon Pacific Bank’s remote deposit capability, allowing Brooke to deposit checks without leaving her office. “As a small business owner, I’m constantly busy,” says Brooke. “Being able to manage deposits remotely has been a game changer, and their team is always quick to assist if I need anything.” In addition to their business banking, Brooke and Jim also rely on Oregon Pacific Bank for trust services, a unique offering among community banks. “Having a bank that can handle both our day-to-day banking and long-term financial needs gives us peace of mind,” Brooke shares. Community Banks: Trusted Partners in Business Growth Right at Home Southern Oregon’s relationship with Oregon Pacific Bank highlights the importance of community banks in supporting local businesses. Unlike larger financial institutions, community banks are deeply invested in the well-being of their local economies and the businesses that make them thrive. Oregon Pacific Bank takes a personal approach, working closely with business owners to understand their unique challenges and provide meaningful, tailored solutions. Whether it’s offering lending for growth or providing tools to streamline daily operations, community banks solve problems by building genuine relationships with their clients. “We know our clients by name and take the time to understand their businesses,” says Dawn Hartley, Vice President and Relationship Banking Officer at Oregon Pacific Bank. “That’s what sets community banks apart—our commitment to building strong, long-term partnerships.” For business owners like Brooke and Jim, this local approach is invaluable. “Oregon Pacific Bank isn’t just a bank—they’re part of our community,” says Brooke. “They care about our success because they care about the success of Southern Oregon as a whole.” By helping businesses grow and thrive, community banks like Oregon Pacific Bank contribute to the vibrancy of the local economy. “When small businesses succeed, the entire community benefits,” says Dawn. “That’s why we’re so committed to supporting businesses like Right at Home—it’s about making our communities stronger and more vibrant.” As Right at Home Southern Oregon continues to care for families in the Rogue Valley, they know they have a trusted partner in Oregon Pacific Bank. “It’s a great feeling to know that while we’re taking care of our clients, Oregon Pacific Bank is taking care of us,” Brooke says.  Story submitted by Summit BankHospice of Redmond: Four Decades of Compassionate Care and Support for Central Oregon Families Hospice of Redmond has been a vital source of compassionate, personalized care for individuals and families facing terminal illness in Central Oregon for over four decades. Under the leadership of Executive Director Jane McGuire, Hospice of Redmond continues its mission to provide comfort, dignity, and support for those in the final stages of life.
What began in 1979 as a small, all-volunteer effort to offer an alternative to hospital care has grown into a highly respected nonprofit organization, employing over 20 dedicated professionals and touching the lives of thousands in Deschutes, Jefferson, and Crook counties. From its early beginnings as one of 26 federal demonstration programs assessing the cost-effectiveness of hospice care, Hospice of Redmond has remained committed to ensuring that every patient receives high-quality, personalized care in the comfort of their own home—whether a private residence, an assisted living facility, or a nursing home. At the heart of Hospice of Redmond is a team of physicians, registered nurses, hospice aides, social workers, and spiritual counselors who work closely with patients' physicians to create individualized care plans. Their holistic approach focuses on symptom management and pain control, allowing patients to remain active and in control of their lives for as long as possible. With 24-hour access to staff, patients and their families can always rely on guidance, support, and assistance whenever needed. One key aspect of Hospice of Redmond's philosophy is its commitment to helping families stay connected to their loved ones during this difficult time. Families are encouraged to actively participate in caregiving, and Hospice provides the education and emotional support they need to navigate this journey. From delivering necessary medications and medical equipment to offering bereavement counseling after the loss of a loved one, Hospice of Redmond ensures that no family walks through this experience alone. The organization's origins trace back to the compassion of a local nurse and her friend, who helped care for the nurse's husband at home in his final days. This act of kindness sparked the creation of Hospice of Redmond, which has since grown into a Medicare-certified, independent nonprofit serving communities across Central Oregon. Today, Hospice of Redmond provides end-of-life care, palliative care, a transition program, and ongoing grief support. During Community Banking Week, Summit Bank proudly recognizes Hospice of Redmond for their unwavering commitment to our community. Their tireless dedication ensures that individuals and families receive the compassionate care they deserve during life's most challenging moments. |