A large number of businesses have traditionally thrived in this region, including Clearwater Paper which has grown into a world leader in paper products manufacturing and technology and Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories. The completion of the waterway system which made Clarkston, WA and Lewiston, ID into the West’s most inland seaport accelerated business growth and diversity. The Ports of Clarkston, Lewiston, and Wilma offer a gateway for manufacturers to the West coast as well as to the other countries in the Pacific Rim. A network of river, rail, and highway transportation facilities, along with the economic assistance offered by area banks and community agencies, combine to give the Southeast Washington an excellent business climate. In this setting, there has been a steady influx of individuals and families seeking a clean, less complicated lifestyle where they know their neighbors, escape long commutes with heavy traffic, and still have the opportunity for business growth.