Port of Columbia has hired a new economic development coordinator

DAYTON-"I'm very excited to become part of the Port family. I have a lot of great ideas and creativity and look forward to working with other community partners in Dayton," said the Port's new economic coordinator Jennifer DeLannoy.

DeLannoy has many years of retail and restaurant management experience under her belt. She also has experience in accounting and finance and is working toward a BA in Accounting.

For the last six years DeLannoy has been a small business owner, marketing Kid Hub.

She sold mostly online, performing every aspect from creating the line, advertising, listing goods, sales, customer service, packing and shipping.

"I successfully ran that business, until Dec. 2018, when I decided to step back and enjoy more time with my children," she said.

"I love small towns and I will do whatever I can to see Dayton thrive. I want to help local businesses find ways to grow and flourish."

DeLannoy said she plans to get acquainted with the Blue Mountain Station and downtown Dayton, soon.

"If you see me popping in and out of shops, stop me and say 'hi'," she said.

DeLannoy is originally from Yakima. She has three children, Savannah, age 12, Hunter, age 10, and Capri, age 8.

Her significant other, Paco Negret, operates Paco's Mechanical and Powder Coating in one of the Port's industrial buildings.

Their family includes a dog named Pablo, two cats, Turbo and Little Kitty, a bearded dragon named Chief and a guinea pig named Rex.

She enjoys spending time with family and friends and outdoor activities.

"We are all looking forward to exploring Dayton and being involved in all the fun local events," said DeLannoy.

Jennie Dickinson, the Port's Executive Director, had originally interviewed DeLannoy for another job, which has since been split into two part time jobs.

When Kathryn Witherington left her job as the Port's Economic Development Coordinator, in February, Dickinson said she immediately thought of DeLannoy and called her back.

"I think she is the right person for the job because of her business and financial background, her resourcefulness, and her potential. She is smart, hardworking, and creative. I look forward to working with her and helping her learn more about economic development in our rural community," said Dickenson.

DeLannoy joins another new employee, Kelly Hinds, who is the Port's administrative assistant. Hinds began work at the Port in January.