Calvin Goings Honoring our veterans’ entrepreneurial spirit. 23
South Sound Selling Salespeople have questions; Jeffrey Gitomer has answers. 23
$2.50
INSIDE November 11, 2013 | Volume 29 No. 23
NEWS
Red Wind Casino building to win back customers 6 FOCUS
Genetically engineered food war warms up 10 PROGRESS
Does Des Moines want its own chamber? 14
INDEX Featured List....................................19 For The Record.................................20 Scene & Heard.................................21 People on the Move.........................22
Job market welcoming JBLM personnel Transitioning program matches qualified military and local businesses By Holly Smith Peterson hpeterson@BusinessExaminer.com With more than 20 million veterans of all ages in the U.S., there’s a well-trained worker pool that’s until now remained for the most part untapped. However, recognizing the need for experienced employees in local businesses, as well as the need for jobs for soldiers returning from overseas or retiring, Joint Base Lewis-McChord is partnering with federal agencies and local companies to play matchmaker. “We’re partnering with the community, SHRM chapters, chambers of commerce, state agencies, and groups like Hire America’s Heroes to raise awareness of the value of hiring veterans, as well as creating a pipeline directly to corporations,” said JBLM transition services manager Robin Baker. Before this year, roughly 6,000 service members have transitioned out of military life from JBLM each year. In 2013, though, Baker said those numbers have risen to nearly 8,000 to date, or about 650 per month. The steady increase, she said, is likely due in part to the Army’s “strategic reset.” To handle this jump, besides partnering with other agencies and organizations, JBLM is also active in the Washington State Mili-
PHOTO BY HOLLY PETERSON
The Nov. 5 “Hot Shop Heroes” event at the Tacoma Art Museum was just one in a string of South Sound opportunities for transitioning soldiers to learn new civilian work skills — in this case, glass-smithing.
tary Translation Council, a team formally established by Gov. Jay Inslee in his first Executive Order. The Council was put in place to bring to the table key state officials, community partners and federal agencies to ensure a seam-
less transition for veterans into non-military life and careers. The installation also has a full-time, onsite Employment Liaison to assist in these efforts. One such liaison is the Employer Support for Guard and Reserve,
a Department of Defense agency unit with an all-volunteer manned branch in each state. Originally generated as part of the U.S. Employment and Re-employment
See JBLM, page 6
Port of Olympia Airport attracting, expanding businesses Companies across campus driving growth in aviation and other industries By Holly Smith Peterson hpeterson@BusinessExaminer.com
With more than 300 acres and nearly two dozen businesses on the property and adjacent NewMarket Industrial campus, commercial growth at the airport is indeed a
reality. Current tenants range from aviation services, light manufacturing and entertainment to the state
See PORT, page 3
6 89076 06449
1
At the recent Thurston Business Showcase, no one was more excited
about business than Port of Olympia airport director Rudy Rudolph. That’s because, “We have a few businesses going like gangbusters down there,” he said.
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID TACOMA, WA Permit No. 308
2 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | November 11, 2013
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01 | Job market welcoming retiring
11
15
President of Marketing for Oberto
JBLM personnel
10 | Label liabilities: The genetically
01 | Port of Olympia Airport attracting,
engineered food war warms up in
expanding businesses
Washington state
04 | With new lease, BNY Mellon still sees
10 | ACA tax credit could help
Tacoma as home
small businesses
04 | Cleanup on 96-acre Kaiser
11 | Blogging for Business: Local lawyers
Aluminum site nears completion
blogging, using social media to inform,
04 | Sports Authority tabs West Olympia
find clients
site for newest location
14 | Does Des Moines want its own
05 | Government contracts abound for
Chamber?
regional businesses
15 | City optimistic about upcoming
06 | Red Wind Casino tries to win back
business park
customers with $45 million expansion
23 | Honoring the entrepreneurial spirit of
07 | Auburn attracts more mixed-use
our veterans by Calvin Goings
development
23 | Salespeople have questions; Jeffrey
08 | Q&A with Gregory Yahn, Vice
Gitomer has answers
November 11, 2013 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | 3
A&R Aviation, which started in company president Ron Hix’s garage five years ago, now has a 60,000-square-foot site at Olympia’s airport for its 35 employees.
PHOTO COURTESY OF A&R AVIATION
PORT continued from page 1 Department of Natural Resources and the Washington State Patrol, and the site’s proximity to I-5 keeps it busy. Clientele for the airport specifically include both private and corporate aircraft owners who utilize the 5,501- and 4,157-foot runways, but it also sees weekly dozens of visitors to Museum of Flight and customers for the surrounding businesses. One tenant that’s seen massive growth in recent months emergency training company Site Response, where husband-and-wife team Todd and Jonessa Miner started their business roughly 18 months ago. Todd, who was in the fire service for two decades, and Jonessa, a logging family descendent whose background merges Army experience and time as an educational instructor, were both familiar with the problem of on-the-job injuries in many industries. That combination then sparked a brainstorm: Why not blend the two in a business that provides emergency training for everything from sawmills to day care centers? Now they’re one airport-site business that’s expanding at a rapid pace, so much so that they recently moved into a new space that gives them three times the size of the old one for their service and retail operation. Besides providing safety training for companies like Manke Lumber and the Grays Harbor PUD, Site Response also sells equipment and retail consumables like environmental spill products for 150 local giants like Weyerhaeuser. Staff, too, has expanded to four employees and 10 instructors. “Our constant struggle is finding a balance between family and work,” said Jonessa. Another growing business at Olympia Airport is Soloy Aviation, where owner Dave Sauter agreed that there has been expansion both for on-site commercial activity and for his own company.
“It does seem to be picking up a little, especially since the end of last year,” he said. “But then that’s probably true for the industry as a whole.” Also at the airport is A&R Aviation, a local repair company that started in company president Ron Hix’ garage five years ago and now occupies a 60,000-square-foot site with 35 employees. Already for this year the company won the Best Airframe Structures Repair category at the national OneAero MRO Top Shop Awards. And, currently the company is in the process of expanding its facility by 20,000 square feet to accommodate 10 more employees and increase shop space for more commercial airline repair contracts by the end of next year. “We’ve grown quite a bit,” Hix agreed. “We chose the site because I’m from Tenino and know the area, so although we’re worldwide, it’s local. And we have a great relationship with the Port of Olympia and the builder. It’s been a good partnership.” But while growth can be good, Hix knows
PHOTO BY HOLLY SMITH PETERSON
Emergency training, whether for the logging industry, construction or even day care, is hands-on for students of Site Crafting. The company carved a market niche by combining training for workers in those different industries with a unique educational program..
when to stop. He wants to keep employee numbers below 50 so it can stay a small business, and will limit his services to large commercial jet companies like Boeing, MacDonnell Douglas and Airbus.
“That’s where businesses go wrong and try to do too much, and lose control of expenses,” he said. “We’re rock stars at what we do now, because we’re good at what we do, and we’re happy just keeping it that way.”
4 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | November 11, 2013
SouthSoundTimeLine Oct
29 Oct 30 Oct 31 Nov 1 Nov 2 Nov 3 Nov 4 Nov 5 Nov 6 Nov 7 Nov 8
Quarter notes: 3Q at a glance
FIRST REPORTED ON DAILY BUSINESS BRIEFS, OCT. 29
With new lease, BNY Mellon still sees Tacoma as home By Holly Smith Peterson hpeterson@BusinessExaminer.com Faced with the option to move its Broadway Avenue offices and 170 employees from downtown Tacoma, investment
analytics and risk services firm BNY Mellon has decided to stay in the city’s core, where it feels it belongs. The Tacoma-Pierce County Economic Development Board made the announcement on Oct. 29 that BNY Mellon had signed a long-term lease
to stay in its current space. “We’re very appreciative of the work the City of Tacoma and the Economic Development Board do, and the support they have provided to us,”
Third quarter net income was $13.3 million, a 12 perincrease in net cent increase income over compared to 2012 Q3 net income of $11.9 million for the third quarter of 2012.
See BNY MELLON, page 9
12%
FIRST REPORTED ON DAILY BUSINESS BRIEFS, OCT. 31
Cleanup on 96-acre Kaiser Aluminum site nears completion By Katie Scaff kscaff@BusinessExaminer.com Targa Sound Terminal may have declined its lease for the Kaiser Aluminum Smelter site the Port of Tacoma purchased in
2003, but port commissioners are still hopeful about the potential revenue the property could reel in for the port. On October 31, Port commissioners approved an increase from about $4.6 million to nearly $9.7 million for cleanup on the site, which is
nearing completion. The two final areas requiring environmental cleanup are at the Rod Mill Landfill and the areas with spent pot lining material — a dangerous waste
See CLEANUP, page 9
Weyerhaeuser’s common shareholders received news of increase in net $157 million net earnings over 2012 Q3 earnings for the third quarter of 2013, a roughly 34 percent uptick in net earnings from the same period last year.
34%
FIRST REPORTED ON DAILY BUSINESS BRIEFS, OCT. 31
Sports Authority tabs West Olympia site for newest location By Arnie Aurellano arniea@BusinessExaminer.com Speaking on Halloween about the newly confirmed Sports Au-
Fresh Flowers Fresh Design
thority retail location to open in West Olympia, district manager Matt Anderson sounded like someone whose efforts are finally close to fruition. “We’ve wanted to be in Olympia
for years,” said district manager Matt Anderson. “I’ve been in this market and worked with Sports Authority for
See SPORTS, page 5
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SOUTH SOUND CONTRACTING
Government contracts abound for regional businesses Thurston EDC’s PTAC program ready to fit federal work with local companies By Holly Smith Peterson hpeterson@BusinessExaminer.com
sulting firm, a janitorial and food service company, and several IT specialists. “The workshop gave them an opportuMatchmaking is happening all over nity to talk with someone who sat on the the South Sound, both between soldiers other side of the desk, who is experienced just exiting JBLM and civilian employers, in approving these applications,” Scott and between local companies and gov- said. “Now, these firms will be going back ernment contract opportunitiess. and doing their homework, and deciding For the latter, in fact, an awareness if government contracting is worthwhile campaign just kicked off courtesy of the for them to pursue.” Thurston County Economic DevelopThe opportunity is so viable in Washment Council. There, the Procurement ington state, and the South Sound in parTechnical Assistance Center is actively ticular, given its proximity to Olympia, hunting for regional businesses — both that the latest Thurston County Chamber in and outside of Thurston County — Forum featured Scott and a panel of loto perform various and abundant gov- cal businesses who have found success ernment contract work throughout the with government contracting. There to state. provide words of experience were Lowell “There’s about $40 billion in federal Gordon, president and CEO of The Crecontracts available,” said government ative Office, Amy Head, a principal at SCJ contracting assistance specialist Stepha- Alliance and Drew Phillips, director of nie Scott, “and about 10 percent of (them) business development and preconstruccome through this program.” tion services at Forma Construction. According to GSA estimates, 80 perRegarding how doing business with cent of government contracts or sched- local government compares to working uled contracts are with commercial served by small customers, said business. In addiGordon, the two tion, 36 percent of processes are simisales for these go lar in many ways. through small busi“The bottom line ness as well. is that you still have “So, we’re activeto provide a high Stephanie Scott ly looking for ways level of service and Assistance Specialist Government Contracting to match up both be competitive,” sides,” Scott said. he explained. “You How it works is that PTAC provides a also look for strategic alliances with nalist of local contracts available, as well as tional contractors and businesses … and the requirements needed by purchasing get creative by finding ways to either parties. With PTAC’s help, businesses can come up with a contract of your own, or hone their specialties to match the needs for the (government) to use your servicof a particular job, and walk through the es.” application process with both accuracy One mistake companies make when and thoroughness. going after government contracts, said Recently, the EDC held its first GSA Head, is pursuing multiple contracts workshop in several years in Thurston rather than focusing on where they would County, to raise awareness about the succeed best. availability of this type of contracting “If it’s an area you’ve never worked in, work. Besides Scott, on hand was re- or you don’t have any examples of what tired government contracting specialist you’ve done in that field, it’s not producTom Westerland, who advised attendees tive to keep going after that,” she said. on the process of applying and whether “We’ve also learned over time to work a their prospective interests would likely little smarter. We will actually team with match up with the types of work needed. competitors that do have that missing A handful of local business owners at- experience; I’d rather have half of sometended, including an environmental con- thing than nothing.”
“
There’s about $40 billion in federal contracts available.
SPORTS continued from page 4 a long time, and it’s been a market that we’ve always seen as an area in need of a sporting goods store like ours. “We’d looked at real estate many times over the years and hadn’t really found the right location with the right amount of space. Finally, we felt that we had found the right place for us.” That right place is Cooper Point Marketplace, a shopping center at 1200 Coo-
”
per Point Road, according to a list of major private construction projects on the City of Olympia’s website. The new Sports Authority will move into Suite 110, a 35,000-square-foot space that was vacated by Linens N’ Things in 2008 and has stood empty since. The new tenant is certainly good news for Cooper Point Marketplace, which has seen its share of departures in recent years. An Old Navy branch that once called the shopping center home has relocated to Westfield Capital Mall, and other tenants like Famous Footwear, Kits Camera and
PHOTO COURTESY OF WASHINGTON PTAC
Niel Aaland of Aaland Planning Services listens while Procurement Technical Assistance Center government contracting assistance specialist Stephanie Scott speaks about federal contracting.
One tip for business owners trying to break into this contracting niche, Phillips said, is to volunteer in your local government, both to serve the community and to make contacts. “There are lot of volunteer opportunities there, so you can give back by helping at this level,” he said. The only caution, Scott warned, is that the government contracting process takes time, as much as six months to a year to put an application together, then nine months to a year for the GSA to decide if it wants to offer a contract.
“What we still see is that only a small percentage of firms move forward, because it’s such a long process,” she said. “But the process is also useful to identify subcontracting opportunities, and ways to partner together to eliminate the administrative burden and make it all work.” For details on PTAC, and how your business can find and win government contracts, go online to www.thurstonedc. com, or pick up a copy of the Business Examiner Media Group’s 2014 Small Business Resource Guide.
the United States Postal Service have since been replaced with empty storefronts. Anderson, though, expressed optimism in the location. “We think we can help anchor the shopping center there,” he said. “We’re
excited to move in ... When we look at the Olympia market, we just don’t see anyone that currently services the value-priced recreational athlete like we do, so we think it will be a good fit.” The Olympia store will be the 13th Sports Authority location in the Puget Sound region, Anderson said. Previously, the closest branches to Olympia were in Tacoma and Puyallup. Once open, the store will create between 45 to 55 jobs, according to Anderson. Hiring is projected to start in February, and the store is targeting a spring 2014 open date.
“
We’ve wanted to be in Olympia for years. Matt Anderson District Manager Sports Authority
”
6 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | November 11, 2013
OLYMPIA GAMING
Red Wind Casino builds to win back customers $45 million expansion to increase gaming area, parking and more By Katie Scaff kscaff@BusinessExaminer.com It turns out there is such a thing as too much business — just ask the Nisqually Tribe. It’s building a bigger casino for the second time since it opened Red Wind Casino in 1997. Patrons outgrew that 30,000-squarefoot building soon after it opened, so in 2004 the tribe built its current 97,000-squarefoot facility. But players have surpassed capacity once again. “We have patrons that come in and wait behind the chairs of existing patrons,” explained John Simmons, community services director for the Nisqually Indian Tribe and chairman of Medicine Creek Enterprise Corp., which oversees the casino. “We realized in the last three years that we have to get bigger because a lot of our patrons are going to other casinos. They didn’t have any place to play. The machines were all full.” The planned $45 million dollar expansion, which broke ground earlier this month, won’t bring back all the customers, but it should help get most of them, said Simmons. “Business has been steadily increasing over the years to a point where parking maxes out and we are full during peak business hours. It’s great to be full, but even better when we can offer our guests a more pleasant gaming experience,” Simmons said. “We plan to improve our food venues, better parking options, more game selections and provide a non-smoking gaming
PHOTO COURTESY OF RED WIND CASINO
Red Wind Casino in Olympia is expanding its footprint. The existing 97,000-square-foot facility, built in 2004, will add 43,000-square-feet of new construction and a new 600-stall parking structure.
atmosphere. As always, we hope to make our casino the best, most fun and exciting entertainment option around.” The project — expected to take about a year — will be completed in three phases, according to the contractor, Korsmo Construction. The first phase is construction of new 600-space parking structure, which will be built adjacent to the existing 400-space garage. Timelines for the second and third phases will overlap, and include renovation of
Transitioning veteran population breakdown Of roughly 8,000 service members who transition out of JBLM annually...
82%
are 21-30 years old and have served 3-18 years, with the majority serving 3-10 years
60%
18%
are at least 36 years old with more than 20 years of service
40%
leave Washington state
stay in Washington state
87%
13%
are male
are female
the interior and 43,000 square feet of new construction. The gaming, nonsmoking areas and three existing restaurants will be expanded. The tribe is also hoping to centralize internal business departments, including finance, marketing and security. The design of the renovations and expansion will complement the 26,000-squarefoot tribal center, which Korsmo completed in May across Highway 510 from the casino. “The administration building was designed to represent the Nisqually people; the casino addition is also being designed
JBLM continued from page 1 Act of 1994, the organization exists to help both businesses and workers streamline the transition of exiting soldiers, sailors and airmen into mainstream employment. “When it’s a case of a former military member being hired, or coming back into a job after serving, there are a lot of questions on both sides,” said John Glynn, ESGR employer outreach director. “It can be anything from how to regenerate benefits to how to handle the situation for someone who’s been replaced on the job.” Why should companies, and veterans just-hired or looking for work use the resource? Said Glynn, because it’s free, paid for by any person or business that files taxes, and it’s easy to use. “It’s like monster.com, and open to any employer or job seeker with a military background,” Glynn said. “There’s been an influx of veterans who have come back to a variety of different chapters of their lives, and who are going into all walks of life and business, so this is a valuable avenue that’s available.” His top recommendation as a resource for transitioning veterans and the businesses looking to job-match them is Hire America’s Heroes. He also said that compa-
to represent the Nisqually people to some degree,” explained Craig McClelland, principal of KMB Design Groups, Inc., which is also working on the project. “There’s elements that will match and some of the design criteria are the same, but that doesn’t mean we’ll be making a copy of what they did.” The casino — set to remain open during construction — will also be expanding its workforce. Simmons said leaders are planning to add 70 jobs or more; the casino currently employs about 400 staff.
nies can join fee-based organizations that put them in touch with military members, or reach out to events and resources at installations like JBLM. Said Baker, JBLM is indeed working with regional companies to provide them with access to the transitioning soldier workforce by providing news briefings, partnering with local agencies to get the word out about availability, hosting workshops, and educating hiring managers, recruiters and CEOs about opportunities to connect with them. Monthly networking events also provide access between both parties, and the last Career Day drew more than 900 ex-military job seekers and nearly 80 prospective employers. As for additional ways to reach transitioning veterans, Baker said that it’s free to conduct on-site orientations and recruiting events at JBLM. She also had advice for transitioning soldiers seeking new career options. “Take advantage of the 12 to 18 months you are authorized, attend all the classes, and take it seriously; develop your individual plan and take ownership of it,” she said. “Do your homework, involve your family, and utilize the counselors who are here to help you. As you get closer to your transition date, make our employer events a part of your routine to build your network, and get feedback from the field while connecting with your resources.”
November 11, 2013 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | 7
AUBURN MIXED-USE REAL ESTATE
Auburn attracts more mixed-use development New Trek Apartments bringing more small business, residents to the area By Holly Smith Peterson hpeterson@BusinessExaminer.com The City of Auburn is seeing a resurgence of sorts, first with an enhanced downtown promenade area that was completed last year, and now with the groundbreaking of the nearby Trek Apartments mixed-use project. “The benefits will be, for the short term, construction jobs in the downtown core that will bring an infusion of retail sales to the immediate area,” said City spokeswoman Dana Hinman. “This will also add needed housing within walking distance of our transit station … which, regionally, can help to reduce commuter congestion.” The 120,000-square-foot project, designed in concrete and brick veneer to complement its locale along Auburn’s historic Main Street, continues the City’s top goal of urban redevelopment. Adjacent to Auburn City Hall, as well as local transit stops, shops and eateries, Trek will add a lowerlevel, 4,480-square-foot blend of retailers and restaurants topped by four stories of 126 market-rate apartments. Besides 140 parking stalls, the complex will also include 1,990 square feet of “tenant amenity space” with a fitness area, media center and lounge. A rooftop terrace will overlook the surrounding streets, while outside, a 4,180-square-foot “residential courtyard” will feature landscaped gardens surrounding a fireplace, outdoor kitchen with patio, and a pergola. Said Auburn Deputy Mayor Nancy Backus, chairwoman of the City’s Planning and Development Committee, when the whole package is finished, it will encourage a new urban, pedestrian lifestyle in the city’s core. “When we finished the promenade in 2012, this is exactly why we did it,” Backus said. “We worked hard to find the funding, to upgrade the infrastructure to attract the type of development that we can be proud of. That will have an impact.”
“
We worked hard to find the funding, to upgrade the infrastructure to attract the type of development that we can be proud of. Nancy Backus Deputy Mayor Auburn
”
Added Auburn economic development manager Doug Lein, what made the whole endeavor viable was the City Council’s staid commitment to it during the economic downturn. “That made it possible to be ready for the (current) marketplace, and is allowing us to attract well-established and capitalized developers,” he said. Earlier this year, Bankers Capital Man-
agement, LLC and Centrum Financial Services, Inc. sold the former Cavanaugh family-owned block on East Main Street to Plan A Development, LLC for $1.4 million plus $25,370 in taxes. Landmark Development of Auburn, which owns the limited liability corporation, completed its purchase of the block in mid-March. It was the dotted line signed
on a deal that has been in the works for more than a decade, and that, when finished, will draw an uptick of 400-plus daily to downtown foot traffic. As for any disruption caused to local businesses by the project, which will wrap up next summer, Hinman said that it will be minimal. “As with most projects, traffic flow is a
concern, but we are working proactively to mitigate any issues, especially since we have a major hospital and transit station surrounding the development,” she said. Working in the City’s favor, she added, is that the land earmarked for Trek is vacant. In addition, during other recent projects in the downtown core, the City has maintained efficient solutions to traffic issues.
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8 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | November 11, 2013
and
QA
Gregory Yahn, Vice President of Marketing for Oberto Brands The century-old Oberto company, based in Kent, has been quietly growing as a major economic driver for the South Sound. Two years ago, in an effort to reach today’s health-conscious consumers, Oberto launched its All Natural line, a new niche of jerky products without artificial ingredients, preservatives or MSG. So far, Oberto is the only major national brand to have made the switch to all natural. Let’s find out what’s next for this thriving and local family business. How has Oberto’s business model changed over the years? Meaning, how has the company made adjustments to cater to different markets, trends and economic challenges? In 2013, Oberto recently implemented the largest brand overhaul in the company’s 95-year history, dropping the “Oh Boy” moniker from its popular All Natural line of jerky (while keeping it on the Classics line of products). The goal of this rebranding was to pave the way for a more modern package and positioning, both aimed to solidify Oberto as a “better-foryou” protein snack that helps fuel consumers’ active lifestyles. While mass-market jerky has largely been seen as an unsophisticated junk food,
we’ve elevated jerky and made it new and relevant for active consumers who want to get the most out of what they eat, and who are specifically looking for snacks to charge them up for their day. What else is different about the products you offer? Oberto is committed to products that are Made in the U.S. We recently opened an additional facility in Nashville that will help continue to ensure that. Unlike many of the large meat snack producers, all of Oberto’s U.S. products are made in the U.S. to guarantee the highest quality and production standards. We also want to support the U.S. manufacturing industry.
Has there indeed been growth in business over the past few years, specifically in sales volume, production, employees, etc.? Yes. Oberto has experienced a significant amount of growth over the last couple years in particular. Since switching to an all-natural recipe, sales are up nearly 50 percent. In convenience stores, jerky posted more than 14 percent volume gains year-over-year, and is one of the fastest-moving categories. How does this benefit other local businesses, such as convenience and grocery stores? Increased consumer demand signals significant opportunities for operators to grow store sales. At an aver-
age of $6 to $7 a bag, jerky provides the prospect of high penny profits for retailers. As far as growth, earlier you mentioned site expansion. Tell us more about that. Oberto is in the process of adding a manufacturing facility in Nashville as part of its commitment to keep all of its products made in the U.S., and to keep up with the high demand. The new plant in Nashville will bring more than 300 jobs to the area and is slated to open at the end of this year. Of note, in 2010, Oberto moved all its U.S. production to the U.S. from Brazil, creating nearly 300 jobs. Our main competitor manufactures its products overseas. What should our business audience look for in the next few years for new products, growth, or other changes at Oberto? Today, consumers are reaching for “better-for-you” bites. A 2012 snacking study by Technomic showed 35 percent of consumers opted for healthier snacks, proving that jerky is a popular grab-and-go option for consumers. To keep up with the demand for healthy snack options, the Oberto team is constantly innovating new product flavors. Tell us about some of the unique aspects of these new products. Oberto is growing and expanding its popular All Natural bacon jerky product line with the upcoming Jalapeno line extension. We’re also working on various new sizing options to meet the demands of the Convenience Store channel, which is a key distribution area for Oberto.
November 11, 2013 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | 9
BNY MELLON continued from page 4 said senior vice president Steve Wolf. “We feel Tacoma is a great place to do business, and we look forward to continuing to do business here in the future.” That’s terrific news for the neighborhood, where retailers and restaurants rely on business from BNY Mellon’s employees and clientele as well. One appreciative party is the Hotel Murano, where general manager Stan Kott said that his establish-
CLEANUP continued from page 4 compound generated in the production of aluminum that contains carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and cyanide. Construction activities at the landfill required less effort than anticipated, saving money in the excavation, disposal and backfill. But, more soil than previously expected will need to be cleaned up in the spent pot lining areas of the property. The additional funding approved by the court will cover the cost of excavation and disposal of the contaminated material as well as the extension of erosion and control measures, winterizing the site and additional monitoring and testing. Despite the increase in cost, the demolition and cleanup expenses — which total about $10.6 million — are still significantly less than the anticipated cleanup cost of $44.5 million to $68 million. Those costs were the main concern for commissioners like Connie Bacon, who were there when the property was purchased. But, it was a net cost of less than half of what was expected, said Bacon. “As far as I’m concerned it’s a win-win situation,” she said. “It’s not costing us more than it’s worth.” The Port’s total costs to purchase the property and clean it up will add up to only about $33.8 million. That total factors in the $16.2 million paid for the property at 3400 Taylor Way, the $10.6 million spent so far for cleanup and demolition and the additional $7 million it expects to spend on future cleanup and monitoring until 2018. “It was recently appraised at about $50 million. So, just sitting there, it’s a good investment; then we have the opportunity to lease it,” Bacon said. Tara Mattina, communications director for the port attributes the savings in cleanup costs to two primary factors: the way cleanup was phased and divided into separately managed and bid upon projects, and the amount of materials which were able to be recycled when the buildings on the site were demolished. “It turns out to be a very good investment for the port and a very high revenue producer for the future,” Bacon said. “We already have people knocking at the door to use that.” Bacon didn’t mention specific names, but said she sees the property being used as break bulk terminal rather than container terminal. With the recent increase in construction funding, the cleanup should be done by late fall.
ment is very excited to hear that the company is staying in town. “It’s great for us that they’re still occupying that space, because they’ve benefitted us in many ways,” Kott said. “Any time any business decides to stay in town, it’s very good for the neighborhood.” All told, the Tacoma site is just one link in a financial advisory network that spans 35 countries and employs 50,000. Established as a joint venture between Russell Investments and Mellon Financial Corporation in 1999, the company remained downtown after Russell sold its 50 percent interest in the joint venture back to Mellon in 2005, and again after a merger with the Bank of New York in 2007. Now, with the “long-term” lease, said Tacoma-Pierce County Economic Devel-
opment Board vice president Chris Green, the the company will continue its downtown operations for some time to come. “When we hear ‘long term,’ we don’t think just five years,” he said. He added that the deal came about due to hard work by both the EDB and the City, the latter of which took a particularly active role in making sure the company will be taken care of with tax incentives and the like throughout the future. “I think that they looked around the region, at all the places that would really like to have them there as a Fortune 200 company, so the fact that they are staying really speaks to the value of this city, and this area,” Green said. Wolf agreed the company is indeed committed to Tacoma, and will continue
to invest in BNY Mellon’s downtown locale for the long run. “We have a very talented and capable work force in Tacoma,” he said. “We’ve been able to consistently recruit good talent in the area, and including high-caliber candidates from local universities like Pacific Lutheran University, University of Puget Sound and University of Washington Tacoma.” That talent serves financial institutions like insurance companies and investment managers, as well as purveyors of corporate pensions and endowments. Wolff said that BNY Mellon employees are also active in the community, supporting causes like the United Way Day of Caring, Special Olympics, and Mary Bridge Children’s hospital.
LAW & LEGISLATION 10 | www.Business Examiner.com | November 11, 2013
Label liabilities The genetically engineered food war warms up in Washington state By Holly Smith Peterson hpeterson@BusinessExaminer.com Food products won’t require more detailed labeling, after the state’s failed passage of Washington Initiative 522, which put up for vote last week whether or not farms and food production companies would be required to identify items with ingredients that have been genetically modified. “This is a clear victory for Washington consumers, taxpayers and family farmers across our state,” said No on 522 spokeswoman Dana Bieber. “Washington voters have soundly rejected this badly written and deceptive initiative.” However, such products may soon require GMO labeling, based on embroilment over the issue in the food industry. Also targeted for further discussion is GMO label regulation, for which proponents are pressing to be handled at local levels throughout the state. To define the parameters, I-522 — a.k.a. the “Mandatory Labeling of Genetically Engineered Food Measure” — would require certain consumer foods and seeds originating from plants or animals containing genetically modified organisms to be labeled as such. If not labeled correctly, violators would have been subject to a penalty of up to $1,000 per day per mislabeled item. If the initiative had passed, the process would have begun on July 1, 2015. More than 350,000 signatures supporting GMO identification were collected in recent months via a grass-roots campaign, with publicity by groups like the PCC Farmland Trust, Whole Foods Market, Megafood and Applegate meats mirroring that of the 64 countries that have so far mandated such labeling, and 26 U.S. states with GMO labeling proposals on the ballot. “We just don’t have billions of dollars; the corporations have deep pockets (to pass this measure),” said Yes on I-522 campaign spokeswoman Elizabeth
PHOTO BY HOLLY SMITH PETERSON
Plant and animal foods that have been genetically modified are in more products we use than just snack or meal items and ingredients. They also can be in vitamins, bath products, makeup and more, which has concerned consumers checking labels more these days.
Larter. “But we (do) have thousands and hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians (concerned with this issue).” One particular area of concern has been commercial fishing, including the salmon fishery network, which for Washington state the Department of Fish and Wildlife says generates an annual $1.6 billion. And as for farming, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture figures published this year, 97 percent of the nation’s sugar beets alone are genetically engineered, as are 93 percent of soybeans, and 90 percent of both cotton and feed corn. That also has healthcare practitioners worried, as well as industries involved with toxins. On board for labeling, thus, are the Washington State Nurses Association, Physicians for a National Health
Program’s Western Washington Division, the Washington Toxins Coalition and the Washington State Council of Firefighters as well. The issue is fanning flames in particular as sales of organic products jumped 10 percent, to more than $29 billion, in 2012 over the previous year. That’s on pace for an industry that’s tripling its sales compared to the rate of regular packaged foods in the U.S., according to the latest report by Bloomberg industries. On the other side of the argument, though, are large seed corporations like international leaders Monsanto and Dupont, which threw roughly $26 million into the anti-labeling campaign. Other institutions, like the Grocery Manufacturers Association, which represents such com-
panies as Kraft Foods Group and ConAgra Foods, are also in the ring against labeling. In fact, GMA president Pamela Bailey said publicly that stopping GMO labeling is the group’s “single highest priority.” Spokesman Brian Kennedy added, “GMA fully supports the No on 522 Campaign in Washington State, and will continue to support the campaign’s effort to defeat this costly, confusing and unnecessary proposal.” A major line in the corporate argument is that as long as GMOs are determined to be safe, food from genetically modified crops determined to be substantially equivalent shouldn’t pose any health risks. They also argue that it’s impossible to de-
See GM, page 12
ACA tax credit could help small businesses New boundaries and benefits to affect many regional companies By Holly Smith Peterson hpeterson@BusinessExaminer.com Small businesses throughout the South Sound are already being affected by the nation’s new health care system, and tax credits have been one of the factors. In particular, businesses with fewer than 25 employees have been targeted for government tax breaks. And companies with fewer than 10 employees who have average wages of up to $25,000 are particularly benefitted by a maximum tax credit
of 25 percent of the amount the company contributes toward its employees’ health insurance premiums. That’s good news, according to a recent Commonwealth Fund report, which says that 33 percent of working adults are employed by companies with less than 50 employees. In addition, more than 35 percent of those employees were uninsured, compared to 15 percent of workers at larger firms. One major factor in that equation is that, for similar health plans, small firms pay an average of 18 percent more
for insurance premiums over large firms. Now, 16.6 million workers are employed by companies eligible for the tax credit. Government experts predict that, by the end of this year, businesses employing 20 percent of these workers will indeed take the credit. Specifically, the tax credit offsets a slice of tax income liability for these businesses, which receive the credit as a refund. The only catch is that the refund cannot exceed the Medicare tax paid by that business, plus the amount of federal income tax and Medicare payroll
tax withheld by the employer from the worker wages. Other specifics regarding the small business ACA tax credit are that coverage must be purchased through the Washington state Health Benefits Exchange, and will only be available to any employer for two consecutive tax years. The credit also decreases as employee numbers approach 25, and average annual wages head toward $50,000. To qualify, businesses need to
See JUMP, page 13
November 11, 2013 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | 11
BLOGGING FOR BUSINESS
Local lawyers blogging, using social media to inform, find clients By Katie Scaff kscaff@BusinessExaminer.com Lars is a CPA in the South Sound, and, although he’s just a fictional character, he’s helping Gordon Thomas Honeywell teach prospective clients and the public about estate planning. Alan D. Macpherson, a partner at the law firm in Tacoma, invented Lars about two years ago, when he started blogging for his company. Since then, Lars has developed a modest expertise in helping clients with estate planning, and Macpherson has accumulated a following of a few hundred who regularly read about the adventures of Lars and his family and friends. “I like to write and I’m an English literature major and a frustrated writer, like a lot of lawyers,” Macpherson explained. “Having to write about them causes me to have to think about them more.” Creating the blog — which also discusses current cases and other industry developments — was Macpherson’s idea, but the idea is catching on. Soon after Macpherson started his estate planning blog, two lawyers in his company’s Seattle firm began an energy and natural resources law blog — and later this year, other lawyers in his office will
begin contributing to his blog. Other local firms are also blogging, or at least considering the idea. Talis Abolins, marketing manager at Campbell Dille Barnett & Smith PLLC in Puyallup, said his company is just beginning its online marketing efforts. “We’ve got a website with a news feed that gets updated somewhat infrequently, but we intend to step up our social media efforts in the year ahead,” Abolins said. “It’s just in its infancy, but right now we have a news feed.” The news feed, which the firm started about a year ago, is similar what other firms might feature in a blog. It’s where the office announces staff updates and support of local nonprofits or charitable activities, as well as where it provides information on significant legal decisions and projects its lawyers have worked on. “I think it serves to communicate with the community what types of services your firms offers and the success you’re able to achieve on behalf of your clients,” Abolins said. “It’s also a means to be viewed more favorably in internet searches and ranking, and it helps convey matters of interest to the legal community and the community at large. In talking to vendors, an area of growing importance is blogging and creating professional Facebook and other social pages and activities. Marketing is
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increasingly competitive these days.” The firm doesn’t currently have any social media accounts, but it’s considering the idea, which is being recommended more and more, Abolins said. “It’s difficult, particularly for smaller firms to devote staff time toward social media activities, but the reality is it’s becoming more and more important as an aspect of marketing and maintaining a good flow of information with the community,” Abolins said. Establishing an online presence through a blog and social media is also becoming a source for drawing in new clients.
“While print directories are still a significant and important area for marketing, internet marketing has easily surpassed it,” Abolins said. “A small and quickly growing number of leads are coming from social media activities, so, if you don’t modernize and ramp up to meet the increasingly important social media growth, you’re likely to be left behind.” Macpherson’s intentions in starting his blog wasn’t to lure in clients, but that may be an effect of his work. “There might be a marketing effect, but I just let that be whatever it is,” Macpherson said. “It’s mostly to be able to write and reflect and to teach to the extent people want to read it.” Blogging isn’t for every one or every firm, he said. “The reasons why I do it wouldn’t apply,” Macpherson said. “Not everyone likes to write and not everybody likes to reflect. It’s helpful education, but the audience for my blog has not been as vast as I have wished.” “I think individuals are more likely to follow a blog than are business owners. A blog that discusses a key business topic is likely to be found by business owners doing a search on that topic, but I suspect business law blogs aren’t as consistently followed as those that deal with personal topics.”
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12 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | November 11, 2013
GM continued from page 10 sign long-term safety tests for humans, which would likely require consuming large amounts of a specific GM product over time. In addition, the companies emphasize that labeling regulations would hurt Washington-state businesses in the food industry. “Complicated and unnecessary labeling regulations would unfairly hurt Washington farmers, food producers and grocers,” said Monsanto spokeswoman Wendy Reinhardt Kapsak in a statement. “It would also cost taxpayers millions, increase food prices and give misleading information to consumers about the safety of the products they know and trust.” Would labeling substantially raise food costs, thus lowering grocery sales, ultimately putting a ding in the bottom line of those in the agricultural business? That’s what detractors of the initiative were emphasizing. In fact, according to the Washington Research Council, farmers and food manufacturers would initially incur $264 million in costs to comply. The annual hit to a family of four through 2019 would be roughly $520, or $10 a week. The Washington Office of Financial Management’s cost figures are even greater: $3,368,000 for state agency implementation over six fiscal years, and roughly $1,200,000 for state and local revenue costs and enforcement activities. The Washington Farm Bureau, which represents 42,000 statewide farmers and ranchers and their families, agrees that
PHOTO BY HOLLY SMITH PETERSON
Non-GM carrots, sprouts and radishes at Tacoma’s Metropolitan Market, which is supporting the continuation of I-522. MM is one South Sound grocery that specializes in GM-free foods and sundries.
food cost hikes due to GMO labeling would be deadly for their industry, at least. “I-522 would burden Washington farmers with increased regulatory red tape and bookkeeping requirements,” said president Mike LaPlant, “and (ultimately) drive up food costs for Washington residents.” There are a couple of catches in the I-522 proposal as it stood, though. First, while 70 to 80 percent of grocery products already include ingredients from GMO foods and have been deemed safe by the FDA, I-522 would require thousands of new labels for Washington state. There
were also a vast list of exemptions; for example, fruits, vegetables and grain-based products would require labeling, but meat and dairy products would not, and groceries will be required to post special labels and signs while restaurants get a pass on providing GMO details. In addition, foreign foods would be able to claim exemption from labeling. Ultimately, those who don’t want labeling say that it wouldn’t be reliable. Supporters, though — even after the measure failed — say some information is better than nothing.
Perhaps the best take is from of the agencies walking the fine line between the two sides, like the Food and Drug Administration, which supports voluntary labeling GMO labeling by food manufacturers. “In cases of inadvertent low-level presence in the food supply of a new food plant variety, FDA believes that any food or feed safety concern would be limited to the safety of the new food protein(s) in that plant (generally the allergenicity and toxicity of the new protein[s]),” the agency said in one of a string of letters concerning corn in the past few years.
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ACA continued from page 10 pay at least 50 percent of each worker’s premium, and that percentage should be equal across all employees. In addition, from Jan. 1 forward, the maximum credit will increase to 50 percent, or 35 percent for tax-exempt employers.
Where to turn For Washington state, too, the Small Business Health Options Program is set to assist with health insurance comparisons for companies with fewer than 100 employees (or 50 employees, prior to 2016). If employees don’t have employer-sponsored coverage, they can purchase subsidized coverage through the individual Exchange if their income is between 133 percent and 400 percent of the federal poverty level — or, roughly $77,175 for a family of four. Businesses with fewer than 50 full-time workers don’t need to offer health insurance and won’t incur tax penalties. Should coverage be an option, small business exchanges and financial help are available. How to do it? Check out your company’s health care coverage options for workers, and become familiar with the Exchange. Also, figure out how your current employee health coverage plan will be impacted by any renewals starting in 2014. A key component is whether you’re eligible for a tax credit, which you can take from the previous year as well. Also, inform your workers about what’s happening as you go. Another question: Will
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you need to report the cost of employees’ health benefit coverage on 2013 W-2 forms for next year? As for parameters for small businesses and health coverage, to avoid penalties, the coverage needs to be offered to at least 95 percent of full-time workers and dependents; pay for 60 percent or more of standard costs; and limit employee contribution to 9.5 percent of their income.
Terms to know • Employer Shared Responsibility: Under the Affordable Care Act, businesses with less than 50 full-time (30+ hours per week) employees aren’t affected. Those with more have the responsibility to provide health care coverage or risk penalty. • Individual Shared Responsibility: Starting in January, every worker must have basic health insurance coverage or qualify for an exemption, or make a payment when filing federal taxes. • Small Business Health Options Program: The new small business health care marketplace starts on January 1. • Small Business Health Care Tax Credits: Small businesses that provide worker insurance receive a credit of up to 35 percent this year, 50 percent in 2014. • Premium Tax Credits: Workers can use these new tax credits to lower monthly premiums. The amount is based on annual income.
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14 | www.Business Examiner.com | November 11, 2013
Does Des Moines want its own chamber? City’s business community turns out to listen, debate at meeting By Arnie Aurellano arniea@BusinessExaminer.com Just judging by the attendance, the issue is clearly an important one to Des Moines’ business community. It was a standing room only crowd at the city’s Police Building meeting room last week, with some 60 community members and business owners turning out to consider the need for Des Moines’ own chamber of commerce. Organized by city leaders, the meeting was brought about, according to Mayor Dave Kaplan, because a few local entrepreneurs said that there remained a need for an organization to put the needs of local businesses first. “Even as we see positive things happening in Des Moines on the economic horizon, we see significant challenges ahead for our existing local businesses,” wrote Kaplan in an Oct. 7 Kaplan letter inviting local business owners to the meeting. Clearly, they agreed — or were interested, at the very least. After keynote speaker Andrea Keikkala, director of neighboring Kent’s chamber, gave a preKeikkala sentation about the structure and benefits of her own organization to the city it serves, the room was abuzz with questions, comments and concerns. “I’ve been in sales and marketing my whole life,” added Wayne Corey, president of the Des Moines Farmer’s Market board. “And when volunteers took over the farmers market, that was our number one goal, was to market the farmer’s market. “It’s all about marketing. If you want to promote your business or your service — anything — it’s about getting the word out, who you are, what you’re doing, and how you do business. And chambers are famous for knowing how to market the community they’re in to make it happen.” It does bear noting that Des Moines is already served by the Southwest King County Chamber, which also serves Tukwila, SeaTac and Burien. State Farm Insurance agent Vickie Bergquist, in fact, brought it up during the meeting’s discussion session. “When I got the invitation, I was a little confused, because we already have a chamber — the Southwest King County
PHOTO BY ARNIE AURELLANO
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Dan Johnson, who runs The Print Place in Des Moines, gives his comments during a discussion session considering the formation of a Des Moines-based chamber of commerce last week.
Chamber,” she said. “There are 26 businesses in Des Moines who are members of the Southwest King County Chamber. I was confused as to why that executive wasn’t invited here today.” Kaplan responded by saying that the meeting was called because a number of area businesses expressed dissatisfaction with the SKCC’s efforts or felt that something more was needed, and some in the crowd seemed to agree. “It’s just fantastic what they’re doing for our businesses, but there’s only 26 (Des Moines-based) members (in the SKCC),” said Dan Johnson, owner of The Print Place. “How many businesses are represented in this room? “There’s a lot of people even in this room who feel that, for whatever reason, they’re not being served by that, so I think there is a perception that Des Moines needs something more cohesive. Not just downtown Des Moines, but Pac Highway and everywhere else.” Still others, though, expressed doubts that a singular chamber for just Des Moines would be too restrictive. B.J. Bjorneby, who owns and operates CarStar Auto Body in Des Moines, said that the Southwest King County Chamber adds the benefit of a bigger networking
I think there’s a perception that Des Moines needs something more cohesive. Not just downtown Des Moines, but Pac Highway and everywhere else. Dan Johnson Owner The Print Place
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pool and think tank, since it encompasses multiple communities. “The money spent developing a standalone chamber of commerce seems silly to me, because with any small group, you get the same 12 people (attending events) all the time,” he said. “Pretty soon, when you’ve networked with the same 12 people, there’s no more to network. “You need to belong to something that’s greater than you so that you can network and learn from more people. It’s casting a broader net. I was in the Burien chamber when all the cities got together, and there was much, much of, ‘Oh my
God, we’re going to lose our identity.’ But then what happened was, they’re all doing much better than they were.” Bjorneby, though, said that perhaps Des Moines’ SKCC-member businesses aren’t satisfied with that organization’s results because of Des Moines’ membership status within the Chamber. “The amount of membership makes a huge difference,” said Bjorneby. “Des Moines pays a thousand dollars a year. The other cities pay $25,000-$30,000 a year, so obviously, they get more work done for their city. If the City of Des Moines had a regular membership instead of a $1,000 one, then they, too, would get the same amount of energy. They have some dynamite people there.” “I belong to the Southwest King County Chamber,” added Michelle Fawcett, owner of Salon Michelle. “I have for three or four years now. I would say I know 80 percent of this room, so I’ve already made contact with everybody — or almost everybody — in this room. So being in a bigger pool, for my business and for a lot of people’s businesses, is being outside of just your little Des Moines area.
See CHAMBER, Page 16
November 11, 2013 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | 15
City optimistic about upcoming business park Negotiations still ongoing with developer, but officials look forward to future By Arnie Aurellano arniea@BusinessExaminer.com The smile on Marion Yoshino’s face says it all. Yoshino, economic development manager for the City of Des Moines, has seen the false starts that have plagued the 87-acre Port of Seattle-owned property south of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Most recently, Puget Sound Energy backed out of a deal last November that would have seen Bellevue-based developer Benaroya build the long-planned Des Moines Creek Business Park on the plot, bringing 250 jobs to the area. That, Yoshino said, could have been a devastating blow to the city. “You should have seen us the day we heard the news that Puget Sound Energy changed their plan,” she said. “We were just so stunned. Our heads were all hanging that day. It was definitely the low point of my four years here.’” The Des Moines Creek Business Park, however, apparently lives again. According to Yoshino, the last stages of negotiations are ongoing between the Port and Newport Beach-based real estate developer Panattoni Development Company, Inc., to build a combination of airportrelated commercial and light industrial use on the property. It’s important to note, Yoshino said, that the Port has yet to sign a lease agreement with Panattoni. Still, an RFP was released quickly by the Port after the failed PSE venture, and an announcement was made in June that the California firm was selected above three others to develop the business park. “I am delighted that Panattoni has been selected from a very competitive list of national real estate development firms to develop the Des Moines Creek Business Park beginning next year” said Des Moines Mayor Dave Kaplan in June. “We are pleased that they have a strong local office, that their team will be local planners, engineers and contractors, and that they have a great reputation working with their host cities. This is the most important single economic development project in the City’s 55-year history, and the City pledges to do everything within its power to make this a wonderful community-defining, commercially successful project.” “We’re working with the City of Des Moines to create jobs and support economic vitality in the community,” added Port of Seattle Commission President Tom Albro. “This project is part of our Century Agenda vision to grow the economic benefits of Sea-Tac by tripling the volume of air cargo and expand opportunities for local businesses.” Port spokesperson Christina Faine confirmed last week that Panattoni has waived all contingencies and is finalizing documentation of the deal. Commission approval of the option/ground lease agreement, she added, is expected by January — all of which is great news
PHOTO BY ARNIE AURELLANO
Marion Yoshino, economic development manager for the City of Des Moines, goes through a development plan for one of the failed projects slated for the Des Moines Creek Business Park. Now, with California-based development firm Panattoni on board, the City is hopeful for the site once again.
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We’re working with the City of Des Moines to create jobs and support economic vitality in the community. Tom Albro President Port of Seattle Commission
”
to Des Moines officials. “Finally,” said Yoshino with a laugh, recalling not only the upturned pact with PSE but also a failed attempt by Majestic Development Company to build an office park just before the Great Recession. “They won the RFP (in 2007), and right before the recession, they were all set,” she said. “They did beautiful development plans. ... What happened was the economy just dropped and they realized they were not going to get the lease rates. They were getting ready to break ground, so they went back to the Port and said, ‘Hey, we can’t pay you the lease rates that were negotiated in the height of the economy.’ They couldn’t come to an agreement with the Port.” Yoshino, though, is confident that Panattoni’s project is on more solid ground. With a preliminary development budget estimated at $100-125 million, the development is slated to include up to two million square feet of flexibleuse, manufacturing, office, distribution and industrial business park buildings.
Build-out of the project is expected to proceed in phases over seven years, with development planning set to be done by winter of this year. Groundbreaking for the first phase is planned as soon as the summer of 2014. Businesses targeted for the space include companies who desire close proximity to the airport for their business: freight, air cargo offices, aerospace firms and so on. Kidder Mathews, the real estate firm tasked with finding prospective occupants, has reported that “tenant response has been great,” Yoshino said. The City, she added, has partial say in the types of businesses it wants to occupy the space, per a recently amended development agreement between Des Moines and Port of Seattle. The City had briefly explored pushing for more retail for the southern third — roughly 30 acres — of the development, but has eased on the request given the current economic climate. “We still have a strong desire to see retail there,” she said, “but we’re open to what the market will bring. We want to keep the door open to encouraging it, but we’re not going to try and force something that isn’t going to work.” Yoshino also complimented the Port on its alacrity after PSE nixed its plan to come to town. “The Port moved with lightning speed, or what could be considered lightning speed for such a large entity,” Yoshino said. “They took all the good work — all the predevelopment planning — which was a considerable amount, and issued a request for proposal so that we could
keep that good momentum. I can’t overstate how great that was.” Smooth collaboration with the Port, she said, was big because of how much the long-awaited arrival of the business park could mean to the city. “Our city is a city that was set up as a bedroom community originally,” Yoshino explained. “It was never intended to be financially self-sustaining. We were never thinking of ourselves as having commercial areas except just the little bit that might be needed for your corner grocery stores. We depended on sales tax equalization money that was a quarter of our budget. “The state had structured things so we could be a bedroom community. So when the Tim Eyman initiative taking away the car tab tax passed (in 1999), a big chunk of our sales tax equalization money went away, and every city was forced to fend for itself. We don’t have any sales tax revenue-generating commercial areas, so suddenly, we weren’t sure how to pay for a lot of things. Well, having something like the DMCBP finally built is going to go a long way toward helping that.” The downturn, she continued, added even more stress on the City’s books. Des Moines’ revenues dropped by 20 percent, making development of the property even more of a priority. “This is very crucial. We never thought the Port would have the capacity to respond the way that they did, and I’m really grateful that they did. Panattoni’s been great to work with, too. We’re excited to finally get this going.”
16 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | November 11, 2013
CHAMBER continued from page 14 “Having arms out into other communities and driving business here, for me, always was a great thing. If people are dedicated to having a chamber, I don’t see why we don’t revisit doing Southwest Fawcett King County Chamber and maybe joining at the level that the other cities have, instead of recreating something and starting over. Because as I know, starting anything new, it takes three to five years to get that going.
“We’ve already got people there,” Fawcett added. “We’ve already got 26 people who are members of that chamber, so then those people (if a new chamber is established) are going to be like, ‘Well, now what do I do?’ I just feel like, sometimes, adding something new creates shaky ground for a lot of people, and in these times where we have a lot less businesses than we had before, trying to get a chamber together — I’m not saying I’m against it. I just think maybe we should revisit doing a little more with the chamber that we have, because it’s not recreating the wheel.” Asked why the City opts for the lower tier membership in the SKCC, Kaplan answered with one word: money. “If I had the choice of spending $25,000 on membership in the South-
“
I think Des Moines is a wonderful place, and I think that it’s a place a chamber can thrive ... Andrea Keikkala Director Kent Chamber
”
west King County Chamber or funding a quarter of a police officer, I’m going to fund a quarter of a police officer,” said Kaplan. “It’s as simple as that. Asked, then, if he could estimate how much it would cost to start a chamber, Kaplan answered in the negative. “But then that’s not the role of the
City,” he added. “The role of the City is just to facilitate the conversation that we’re having today.” For her part, Keikkala said that, while chambers do provide plenty of benefits, ultimately, it’s a decision that has to be made by the business community for Des Moines’ unique needs. “I think Des Moines is a wonderful place, and I think that it’s a place a chamber can thrive and help its members thrive if one is started,” she said. “But every situation is different, and so the people here have to decide for themselves whether having one is right for them.” At the close of the meeting, Kaplan said that the discussion merited another gathering, although no date and time were set.
November 11, 2013 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | 17
18 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | November 11, 2013
AroundtheSound TUESDAY, NOV. 12
Import Procedures Seminar World Trade Center Tacoma Import Procedures and Documentation Public Seminar, 8:30-11 a.m., Fabulich Center, 3600 Port of Tacoma Road, Tacoma. Rafiki Trade Group seeks to equip importers and exporters with the neccessary information and skills to support and enhance their business through this public seminar. The import process is complex and can appear quite daunting. Hear from experts and gain valuable information concerning entry documentation, the process of classification and valuation of your goods for entry into the United States. Learn how to avoid unnecessary delays and how to achieve expedited clearance. To be discussed: Incoterms 2010, record keeping, country of origin and special trade program requirements.
Lunch & Learn Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber Monthly Lunch & Learn, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Joeseppi’s Italian Ristorante, 2207 N. Pearl St., Tacoma. This month’s program is “The Business Owner’s Path to Prosperity in 2014,” presented by Mel West of West Business Concepts. Set the stage and develop a framework for your business to prosper in 2014. During this interactive workshop, you will see how a mix of strategies, tactics and tools can put you in position to update and sharpen your goals for your business; arm yourself with tools to increase impact and team focus; and identify new market opportunities in uncertain times.
Small Biz Risk Seminar Small Business Risk Management Seminar, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Puyallup Activity Center, 210 West Pioneer, Puyallup. Speakers include attorney Karla Rood on structuring your business to your best
legal advantage; Steve Martinez, CPA, on comparison of taxable entities; Blake Burrill, independent agent, on how to use life insurance strategically to protect your business; Michelle Lorenson, commercial insurance agent on properly protecting your business; and Stephanie Owens on strategies to stop procrastination.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13
Federal Way Chamber Networking Breakfast Federal Way Chamber of Commerce Networking Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., Courtyard by Marriott Federal Way, 31910 Gateway Center Blvd. South, Federal Way. Attend and get valuable contacts with chamber members, as well as obtaining great networking tops for branching out into the community. Note: This networking breakfast is on a Wednesday and not the Chamber’s traditional Friday.
Inn at Gig Harbor, 3211 56th St. NW, Gig Harbor. Back by popular demand, the Alliance of Women Owned Businesses presents Rotating Roundtables for its November Power Series. Program will be “What Men Don’t Tell Women About Business.” Because of the format, attendees are encouraged to arrive early (4:30 p.m.) to pick the discussion group of their choice.
Thurston County Chamber of Commerce November Forum, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Saint Martin’s University, 5300 Pacific Ave. SE, Lacey. Port of Tacoma CEO John Wolfe will discuss the role of marine terminals in increasing international trade through investing in infrastructure to meet the demands of a global marketplace. Wolfe will talk about the Port’s aggressive 10-year strategic plan to modernize facilities, attract and retain customers and enhance its environmental footprint, as well as how the Panama Canal, Canada, State Route 167, rail connections and new cargo terminals figure into the Port’s future.
AWOB November Power Series Alliance of Women Owned Businesses November Power Series, 5-6:30 p.m., The
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 20
Social Toolbox Seminar
THURSDAY, NOV. 14
Puyallup-Sumner Chamber Luncheon Puyallup-Sumner Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Best Western Park Plaza, 620 S. Hill Park Dr., Puyallup. A special luncheon dedicated to the Air Force. Attendees will get to hear from a military official and have the unique opportunity to “Take an Airman to Lunch.”
UW Tacoma VIBE Launch
Marine Terminals Impact Forum
leadership and customer service expert who has trained people in a wide range of industries in the last 18 years. The topic is “Customer Focus/Customer Service: How the Retail Community Impacts Our Economy.”
University of Washington-Tacoma VIBE (Veterans for Better Entrepreneurship) Launch Event, 4:30-6 p.m., UW Tacoma Tioga Library Building, Third Floor, 1907 Jefferson Ave., Tacoma. The launch event for the school’s new entrepreneurship center. Meet the first cohort of veteran students entering the incubator and learn about their aspirations.
Kent Chamber of Commerce Social Toolbox Seminar, 8 a.m., Kent Chamber of Commerce, Allied Waste Services Conference Room, 524 W. Meeker St., Kent. Discover the power of social media marketing from Kirk J. Davis, SBDC certified business advisor at Green River Community College. Topic will be “P.T. Barnum Knew How To Get People to Spend Their Last Nickel. Do You?”
Federal Way Business After Hours Federal Way Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., Federal Way Chamber of Commerce, 31919 1st Ave. South, Ste 202, Federal Way. A lively crowd, refreshments and hors d’oeuvres in a casual atmosphere, with an opportunity to increase referral networks and name recognition, gain visibility and strenbgthen relationship skills.
THURSDAY, NOV. 21
Thurston County Business After Hours
TUESDAY, NOV. 19
Business Insider Luncheon Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce November Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Emerald Downs, Fourth Floor Emerald Room, 2300 Emerald Downs Dr., Auburn. This month’s speaker is Brad Worthley, an accomplished business consultant with over 35 years of management experience, as well as an internationally acclaimed
Thurston County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, 5:30-7:30 p.m., location TBD. Apple Cup Tailgate Party at the Chamber and the Chamber’s Small Business Incubator. Come prepared to eat hot dogs and network. Business After Hours events are on the third Thursday of each month and provide a low-key atmosphere for area professionals to meet and greet.
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NonprofitWishList NON-PROFIT WISH LIST Donation Contact
United Way of Pierce County 1501 Pacific Ave Ste 400 Tacoma, WA 98402 UWPC.org Lakewold Gardens 12317 Gravelly Lake Dr SW Lakewood, WA 98499 LakewoldGardens.org Afifi Shriners 815 S Vassault St Tacoma, WA 98465 AfifiShriners.org Puget Creek Restoration Society 702 Broadway Ste 101 Tacoma, WA 98402 PugetCreek.org Harlequin Productions 202 4th Ave E Olympia, WA 98501 HarlequinProductions.org Exodus Housing PO Box 1006 Sumner, WA 98390 ExodusHousing.org Center For Independence 7801 Bridgeport Way W Ste 200 Lakewood, WA 98499 CFISouth.org Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County 2608 S Center St Tacoma, WA 98409 TheHumaneSociety.org Habitat for Humanity of Tacoma/ Pierce County 4824 South Tacoma Way Tacoma, WA 98409 TPC-Habitat.org Community Youth Services 711 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506 CommunityYouthServices.org Communities in Schools 6402 100th St SW Lakewood, WA 98499 Lakewood.ciswa.org Centerforce 5204 Solberg Dr SW Lakewood, WA 98499 Centerforce.net
Sean Armentrout (253) 597-6458 seana@uwpc.org
Tacoma Lutheran Retirement Community 1301 N Highlands Pkwy Tacoma, WA 98406 TacomaLutheran.org Rebuilding Together South Sound 1423 East 29th St Tacoma, WA 98404 RebuildingTogetherSS.org St. Leo Food Connection 1 710 S 13th St Tacoma, WA 98405 FoodConnection.org
a $20K
Volunteer Needs
Volunteer Needs
Organization Name Address Web site
Cash Needed
Needs identified by charitable organizations to better serve our neighbors' needs. Listed by order received.
Wish / Needs List
Volunteers (and direct to volunteer center if we can do that) Board members
Sponsors for High School Senior Letter in Community Service Donations of chidren's books for our Launch into Literacy initiative...1 out of 4 children are not proficient in reading by the end of the third grade...help us change the story.
Tour Guide, Gardener Event Greeter, Garden Show Rep, Stuffing / Folding for Mailings
Binoculars, easels, life jackets, umbrellas, jumper cables, conference tables / chairs, sign / banner services, engineering services, construction services and supplies
Stephanie Walsh (253) 584-4106 ext 102 swalsh@lakewoldgardens.org
a
Douglas Baker (253) 565-2055 astemple@qwestoffice.net
a
Scott M. Hansen 253-779-8890 pcrs@pugetcreek.org
a $5K
Office Work, Field Restoration, Outreach, Staffing Booth
Aleena Schneider 360-705-3250 aleena@harlequinproductions.org
a $90K
Carpenters, painters, stage hands, theatrical tech crew, ushers, concessionaires, office help, marketing assistance.
Joe O'Neil (253) 862-6808 joeo@exodushousing.org
a $5K
Board Members (Lawyer and Mental Health);
Patt Kosier (253) 582-1253 trinaf@ centerforindependence.org Marguerite Richmond (253) 284-5823 margueriter@thehumanesociety.org
a
Need board members. Help with events to combat isolation for people with disabilities, administrative assistance, and fund raising
Food for clinet events, gift cards for clients, sound system, tickets to plays / movies for clients.
a
weeding and landscaping, dog washing, dog, cat and rabbit care, office assistance, off-site event staff, pick up and delivery of animals to/ from vet offices and off-site adoption locations
canned dog and cat food dry dog and cat food Small, soft training treats for dogs Extra Large Kong toys for dogs gently used small stuffed animals collars and leashes clay cat litter AA batteries Wood stove pellets (for rabbit bedding)
Maureen Fife 253-627-5626 mfife@tpc-habitat.org
a
Habitat store volunteers, house construction volunteers—especially during the week (no experience necessary), and snack providers
Patient Transportation funding
Lynsi Polanco (360) 918-7822 salexander@ communityyouthservices.org David O'Keeffe (253)-589-7489 kidsandfamilies@cislakewood.org
a $65K
Debby L. Graham 253-426-1860 debbyg@centerforce.net
a Board of Directors Volunteers Community $750K Access Program Volunteers Marketing and Communication Professional Volunteers Campaign Volunteers Social Media Volunteers Organizational Development Volunteers
Ruthmarie Zimmerman (253) 756-7560 rzimmerman@tacomalutheran.org
a Driving buses, gift shop clerk, art-ceramics$750K woodworking instructor, assisting with crafts, reading with residents, providing entertainment
Kristina Santwan (253) 238-0977 ksantwan@rebuildingtogetherss.org
a $25K
Kevin Glackin-Coley (253) 572-9405 keving@foodconnection.org
Catholic Community Services 1323 S Yakima Ave Tacoma, WA 98405 CCSWW.org YWCA Pierce County 405 Broadway Tacoma, WA 98402 YWCAPierceCounty.org
Helen Vajgert (253) 307-2791 helenv@ccsww.org
Tacoma Community House 1314 South L St Tacoma, WA 98405 TacomaCommunityHouse.org Multi-Service Center 1200 S 336th St Federal Way, WA 98003 Multi-ServiceCenter.com
Russell Batten (253) 383-3951 rbatten@tacomacommunityhouse.org
Life Christian Academy 1717 S Union Ave Tacoma, WA 98405 WhereLifeHappens.org Tacoma-Pierce County Chaplaincy 6312 19th St W Ste C Fircrest, WA 98466 T-PCC.org HopeSparks Family Services 6424 N 9th St Tacoma, WA 98406 Hopesparks.org Museum of Glass 1801 Dock St Tacoma, WA 98402 MuseumOfGlass.org Northwest Trek Wildlife Park 11610 Trek Dr East Eatonville, WA 98328 NWtrek.org
Ross Hjelseth (253) 756-5317 ross_hjelseth@life-christian.org
Wolf Haven International 3111 Offut Lake Rd SE Tenino, WA 98589 Wolfhaven.org
Kim Young (360) 264-4695 x217 kimy@wolfhaven.org
Caitlin White (253) 272-4181 x264 cwhite@ywcapiercecounty.org
Barbara Whitehurst (253) 835-7678 barbaraw@multi-servicecenter.com
a
Foster parenting, fund raising, event planning, meal preparation, participation on Juvenile Diversion Accountability Board.
3
Holiday Gift Cards: We strive to provide each family with $50 or more in gift cards to help bring smiles to the faces of their children. Essential Need Dr: contact Joe at joeo@exodushousing 253-862-6808 for more details
2,000 A trailer with hydraulic dump, a forklift, translation services (especially Russian & Korean), and new & gently used appliances, furniture and tools to be sold at the Habitat for Humanity Store.
10
Mentors, Tutors, After School Assistants
New or high quality used household items, bedding, warm clothing, socks, underwear, belts, shoes, camping and survival gear, hygiene products, non-perishable foods, and school supplies Backpacks, School Supplies, Gently used Baby clothes, Digital Camera, Scanner
75
What: CenterForce is currently seeking support for a $750,000 campaign for the -Development and implementation of a foodservice training and education program. -Construction of a new Commissary and Training kitchen. -Development of a food truck social enterprise business. -Organizational capacity building and program enhancements. -Improvements, renovations, fixtures, furnishings and equipment for our current Client Services Center. 100 New wood working equipment, art easels, ceramic supplies, new or gently used gardening tools, light weight banquet tables and chairs, and organic soil for gardening.
Skilled Volunteers: carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, roofing, general construction and project mngt. Construction materials.
Skilled construction volunteers and construction materials.
Repack food for our Backpack Program 50,100 Nutritionally dense foods for both food banks and our Backpack Program (provides two days worth of food on Fridays throughout the school year to 470 students who at risk of hunger over the weekend) Deliver Backpack Food to schools on Thursdays and Fridays Process food donations and help staff our food line Collect food donations from local businesses (van provided) a senior transportation; home maintenance; 100 Basic hygiene items for homeless (deodorant, tooth brushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, feminine protection) pillow cases, $4,000K clerical/office; reception; meal prep and service; towels, wash cloths, winter socks, coats, hats, gloves, blankets, boots/shoes, warm clothing, rainwear, books, carseats, cribs, baby event planning and coordination toys, diapers, pack'n play, high chairs, baby clothes, laundry detergent, baby wipes, rubber gloves, hand sanitizer, office chairs, bus tickets, office supplies a Seasonal Opportunities available especially In-Kind Donations Needed Year Round -Full sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, lotion, razors, feminine hygiene during the Holidays, individual, internship and products, etc) -Diapers (especially sizes 5 and 6) -Wipes -Used cell phones -New socks, underwear and coats for adults and group opportunities available depending on children of all sizes -twin sized sheet sets -Pots and Pans sets, dish sets, silverware sets -Laundry Soap -Cleaning Kit (broom, skills, desire and availability mop, cleaners, sponge, bucket, etc.) Holiday Giving -Adopt a Family - Starting in November you can adopt a family using our services and provide them with a joyful Christmas. -Holiday Gift Center - donate new, unwrapped, non-violent gifts to our Gift Center for the adults and children to shop from that are in our Emergency Shelter. a Tutors, Special Events, Outreach, Bus tickets, school supplies (especially spiral notebooks), gift cards, new stove, website redevelopment services, videography Administrative Support, Photographer, services, new computers, new tripod, new carpeting, clothing vouchers. Videographer a $20K
a $59K
a
Van drivers to pick up food. Food Bank Warehouse volunteers needed. Volunteers to help with computer intake, food distribution at Food Bank, as well as Clothing Bank Helpers, 9:30 am 13 2 pm Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays Reading/ math tutors, coaches, athletic game support,
750 In-kind donations of food, clothing (especially socks), large size diapers (4,5 or 6), formula (prefer Similac in regular, sensitive and soy), hygiene items for homeless bags, cleaning supplies for shelter families, gift cards or other thank you items for volunteer ombudsmen. Auction items (hotel stays, services, vacation condos, experiences, etc) for fundraising event in June. Sponsorships for annual fundraising event in June. In-kind donation needs may also be found at www.multi-servicecenter.com/get-involved/inkind-donations/
20
Frank Washburn (253) 564-7848 frank@t-pcc.org
a $39K
Data Entry Event Planning Mailings Social Media help Web Design, Printed materials design.
Nicol Walsh (253) 565-4484 nwalsh@hopesparks.org
a $10K
Art Display specialist, Carpenter, HopeSparks Ambassadors
a
a $25K
Our foundation accepts donations for scholarships and tuition assistance for a wide range of students
IT support, Response Vehicle mechanical repair, Police and Fire Uniforms for our Chaplains, 2 computer monitors.
Help us get improve our reception area! We need to expand to accommodate our growing clients. Chrome books for our staff to support programs. Resources and materials for our programs. volunteers are always welcome
a
Tyra Larson (360) 832-7165 tyra.larson@nwtrek.org
199 If you have any Compound Microscope(s); bags of hard candy (as treats for volunteers); foot and/or hand warmer packets that are inserts onto socks or in gloves to keep feet and hands warm; any printer paper; Dissecting Microscope; walkie-talkie£s; other office materials etc.; duct tape; any unused Brita Pitcher Filters; work gloves; sledge hammer; tool belts/pouches; any 9 volt flashlight batteries of different sizes and/or rubber boots £ new or used 25 cash donations to reach $25,000 matching grant from the Apex Foundation. Volunteers- concessions sales, ushering and postering to set building, painting and helping on the tech crew, marketing, PR, fundraising, and with general office tasks.
Education, Maintenance, Marketing, Fundraising, Visitor Services. One-day work parties for special events. 1) Tour Guides 2) Education 3) Grounds
Pressure washer, small wet/dry vac, cordless drill, reciprocating saw, hand pruners, loppers and other good condition hand and power tools. Spade tip and square shovels, small hand spade, rock rakes, commercial/high quality hoses, 2 gallon watering can, 2 step metal step stool, XL trash can on rollers, large tarps, lighters for thawing locks, small cutting boards, hay bale storage bin and shoebox size storage containers. Paper lunch bags, nature CD's, interactive dog toys, nature cluster/parrot toys, sun catchers, nontoxic bubbles/paint/chalk and large towels. Gift cards for craft/grocery/office supply/pet/home improvement stores. - Costco gift card ($25) - Fred Meyer gift card ($25) - Unused 5-gallon paint buckets - Reams/Boxes of recycled copy paper - Bales of cedar or straw shavings
Listed by order received. For more information on the purpose of each organization and services, contact the non profit directly. Additional companies and their wishes / needs are available FREE at www.BusinessExaminer.com -> Databank. (1) Formerly Food Connection Information is based on data provided by a representative of each company or respective Web site. PCBE Inc. dba Business Examiner makes every attempt to publish accurate and factual information on its lists, however, accuracy can not be guaranteed. It is not the intent of this list to endorse the participants, companies, or individuals or to imply a specific level of quality in the companies listed. Please send any updates, additions, corrections, or deletions to subscribe@businessexaminer.com.
20 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | November 11, 2013
FortheRecord New Business Announcements Epic Customs Inc. 7030 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma 98409 Rick Greenhow, COO, co-owner (253) 777-1271 Eran Zantkovsky, co-owner www.epiccustomsinc.com “One stop” offering everything for your car from wheels, tires, brakes, batteries and other maintenance items to DVD and audio system installations, window tinting, suspension lifts and lowers, alarms, remote starts, backup cameras and more.
Bankruptcy Filings
Listings are selected from files at Clerk of U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western Washington District, Tacoma. Commercial and business bankruptcy filings from the local area are reported here. Chapter 7 is business liquidation. Chapter 11 is for reorganization. Chapter 13 is an individual debt repayment plan.
Gryphon Enterprises Inc. dba aka Gryphone Enterprises Inc. 13803 12th Ave. NE, Gig Harbor Secured Debts: $0 Priority Debts: $56,509 Unsecured Debts: $37,966 Assets: $0 Chapter 7 Case #13-46622 10/21/2013 Karen Ann Lockhart dba Rainier Dental Hygiene Services 12445 118th Ave. SE, Rainier Secured Debts: $0 Priority Debts: $885,000 Unsecured Debts: $63,000 Assets: $150,605 Chapter 7 Case #13-46580 10/21/2013 Eric W. Baum fdba Slave to the Grind fdba Sugar Shack Espresso & Ice Cream market 1603 Windsor Ave., Centralia Secured Debts: $199,906 Priority Debts: $0 Unsecured Debts: $171,661 Assets: $148,957 Chapter 7 Case #13-46607 10/22/2013 Alan Peter Braunstein fdba Shooterz Deli & Pool Hall fdba Shooterz Inc. 491 E. Mountain View Dr., Allyn Secured Debts: $14,526 Priority Debts: $50,043 Unsecured Debts: $396 Assets: $253,576 Chapter 13 Case #13-46631 10/23/2013 B&G Automotive Repair Inc. dba B and G Automotive, 111 Central Ave. S., Kent PO Box 7231, Bonney Lake Secured Debts: $4,000 Priority Debts: $9,164 Unsecured Debts: $19,301 Assets: $5,000 Chapter 7 Case #13-46621 10/23/2013 Lennaea Lois Gedsell fdba Melody Dog Kennels 3710 189th St. E, Tacoma Secured Debts: $111,677 Priority Debts: $0 Unsecured Debts: $19,689 Assets: $106,238 Chapter 13 Case #13-46722 10/25/2013 Stephen Wesley Tippins fdba Backstage Bar and Grill fdba Fastro LLC 1110 156th St. E, Tacoma Secured Debts: $179,524 Priority Debts: $19,405 Unsecured Debts: $702,990 Assets: $210,287 Chapter 7 Case #13-46719 10/25/2013 Joseph Boyd McGehee dba Bonney Lake Antiques 8523 Foreign Ln, Rochester Secured Debts: $214,614 Priority Debts: $0 Unsecured Debts: $22,723
Assets: $187,804 Chapter 7 Case #13-46744 10/29/2013 Janet Ann & John Jason Myers dba Freestyle House Keeping PO Box 398, Salkum Secured Debts: $185,205 Priority Debts: $0 Unsecured Debts: $8,553 Assets: $212,690 Chapter 13 Case #13-46802 10/30/2013 Dennis Eugene Gooch dba Corner Garage 4623 152nd St. E, Tacoma Secured Debts: $379,868 Priority Debts: $0 Unsecured Debts: $83,780 Assets: $222,155 Chapter 7 Case #13-46852 10/31/2013 Gerardo Alaniz Villegas dba El Nopalito dba Fajita Grill fdba Villegas Inc. 3618 Nissing Way SE, Olympia Secured Debts: $355,393 Priority Debts: $0 Unsecured Debts: $62,511 Assets: $260,088 Chapter 13 Case #13-46836 10/31/2013 Glenn E. Hull Jr. fdba Radiance Mortgage LLC 6712 Park St. E, Tacoma Secured Debts: $326,509 Priority Debts: $0 Unsecured Debts: $101,672 Estimated Assets $0-$50,000 Chapter 7 Case #13-46850 10/31/2013 Pacific Auto Wrecking Inc. PO Box 206, Pacific Estimated Liabilities $1,000,001-$10 million Estimated Assets $1,000,001-$10 million Chapter 11 Case #13-46873 10/31/2013 Stephanie Anne & James Andrew Larkins fdba Kids Choice Child Care 7924 Onyx Ct. SW, Lakewood Secured Debts: $369,079 Priority Debts: $101,568 Unsecured Debts: $61,460 Assets: $326,761 Chapter 7 Case #13-46871 10/31/2013 William Joseph Spare fdba PLS Custom Carpentry LLC fdba PLS Custom Framing LLC 3332 Edgewood Ln, Centralia Secured Debts: $58,676 Priority Debts: $28,411 Unsecured Debts: $9,886 Assets: $104,060 Chapter 13 Case #13-46856 10/31/2013 Youen Li dba Sakura Restaurant Inc. dba Sakura Buffet, Puyallup 13732 74th Ct. E, Puyallup Secured Debts: $0 Priority Debts: $24 Unsecured Debts: $508,813 Assets: $18,500 Chapter 7 Case #13-46815 10/31/2013 Vanita Mam & Clifford L. Sloan dba House of Avandan, Avadan LLC 3714 48th Ave. NE, Tacoma Secured Debts: $269,569 Priority Debts: $0 Unsecured Debts: $42,546 Assets: $232,568 Chapter 7 Case #13-46885 11/1/2013
Lawsuit Filings These cases involving local businesses have been filed in Superior Courts. Plaintiff is listed first. Readers are cautioned that claims in actions have not been proven; they are alleged to be causes for action and truth will be determined at trial. Information is from public record, as maintained by Clerk of Superior Court.
Thurston County
Pacific Rim Trench & Shoring Inc. dba Pacific Rim Rental Equipment vs Karen M. Dickerson dba Dreams Landscape & Maintenance, Jody Miller Construction Inc., State Dept. of General Administration Facilities Division Defendant Dreams was subcontractor to defendant Jody Miller Construction in 2012 for public works construction project at Seattle Central Community College. This lawsuit claims an unpaid invoice for $1,503.63 remains and seeks to collect with interest, costs and fees. 10/10/2013 ProBuild Company LLC vs Deontology LLC Collection filing seeks $10,759.67 past due on account, plus interest, costs and fees. 10/15/2013 ProBuild Company LLC vs Site Services LLC, John Lee Collection filing seeks $17,232.92 unpaid balance on account, plus interest, costs and attorneys fees. Also asks court to enforce personal guarantee. 10/15/2013 ProBuild Company LLC vs Westview Homes Corp., Nikolay Stepanyuk Lawsuit seeks $20,226.78 unpaid balance on account, plus interest, costs and fees. Also ask for enforcement of personal guarantee. 10/15/2013 JZK Inc. vs Thurston County Plaintiff seeks preliminary injunction preventing defendant from disclosing 675 pages of documents that plaintiff claims will violate privacy interests of JZK and other persons. Plaintiff operates Ramtha School of Enlightenment employing more than 80 persons near Yelm. On Oct. 1, 2013, defendant’s public records coordinator notified JZK of request for correspondence between Thurston County Board of Commissioners and any employee of JZK Inc. Public Records Act request came from Brian Keay, MD, allegedly a former physician for JZ Knight. File states that it appears only 228 pages are responsive to the request. Subsequent filings in case had plaintiff objecting to release of only one two-page document written by a former physician about certain medical information related to JZ Knight, president of JZK Inc. Declaration by Ms. Knight considers this request to be a serious breach of confidence and trust that is part of physician-patient privilege. Court granted requested injunction following a court hearing. 10/17/2013 Sherwin Williams Co. vs Pennywise Contracting LLC, Jesse Larsen Collection case filed seeking $3,352.37 unpaid balance due on account, plus interest, costs and fees. 10/24/2013 American Institute of Architects Washington Council vs Lisa Kinney-Hartsell Lawsuit states that defendant has confessed that she used her position as an office manager for plaintiff to forge checks and embezzle funds for her personal use. An investigation revealed that she has taken more than $160,000, and plaintiff has reported the alleged contact to Olympia Police Department. Plaintiff ’s policies required two signatures on all checks greater than $1,000, yet she allegedly confessed to forging the second name on said inappropriate checks. This lawsuit seeks damages of $164,332.46 plus interest, costs and attorney fees. Also asks court to issue writ of attachment and garnishment. 10/31/2013
Pierce County
Jerry L. Nybo vs Nybo Redi-Mix Concrete Inc. Plaintiff is assignee and personal guarantor of secured leases for multiple equipment items leased by Jerry Nybo Construction Inc. In Aug. 2013, U.S. Bankruptcy Court approved the sale of Jerry Nybo Construction Inc. to plaintiff free and clear of liens. In May 2010, Nybo Construction had sold its redi-mix concrete business to defendant upon condition that it would assume the debt of company and refinance all equipment loans and leases by May 2012. An amendment to that agreement in Jan. 2012 anticipated use of the equipment near the oil fields of North Dakota and providing for surrender of all equipment if there was a default on payments. Plaintiff also assisted in the set-up of the concrete plant in North Dakota, believing it was in his best interest to help defendant partnership be successful. However, this lawsuit claims no refinancing was done, nor did defendant assume existing loans and leases, instead just allegedly used them without making the required payments. By Feb. 2012, defendant was in arrears $325,166.62 and it subsequently sold the equipment and assigned the agreement to a third party as a capital contribution to
obtain half ownership of Associated Companies LLLP, which would wholly own multiple subsidiaries in Williston, North Dakota. On the date of that sale, however, defendant was already in default on equipment loans and three truck loans financed by Key Bank were about to be repossessed. While the bank was paid off, plaintiff and others with interests in the equipment were not notified, nor did they give approval for the transfers. Breach of contract claim alleges nonpayment of $1,333,166.60 on the equipment loans and seeks damages for the fraudulent transfer of secured assets. In spite of defendant’s knowledge of plaintiff ’s contracted obligations as guarantor, it caused default on loans and leases, placing the secured equipment beyond plaintiff ’s control in a foreign jurisdiction. Lawsuit states that plaintiff was forced to file for bankruptcy protection, subsequently regaining control of Nybo Construction. Additionally, three trucks were repossessed in Sept. 2013 despite the plaintiff having paying on the loans before he suffered a stroke in Aug. 2013. Then the lender sold the trucks without an auction to another subsidiary of defendant’s new association. In addition, other secured equipment items were used up and worn out, reducing their value. Seeks court order of breach in contract and awarding plaintiff the right to possess the equipment previously transferred to defendant and subsequent acquisitions. In the alternative, asks award of $1,463,166.60 with interest, costs and attorneys’ fees. Stipulated judgment by the parties agrees with plaintiff claims for recovery of the equipment and damages for diminished value. 10/23/2013 Christopher Lane vs David H. VanWagoner Parties formed DC Vape LLC in Aug. 2012 with equal halfownership shares, but without an operating agreement. They opened a retail store in Puyallup selling primarily electronic cigarettes and supplies, and defendant contributing $34,000 in start-up capital costs as both parties anticipated working in the store. Filing states that defendant did not contribute the same amount of time, expertise and knowledge to forming the company, allegedly leaving it to plaintiff and his girlfriend to work full time, establish an online presence and vendor relationships, plus create an accounting system. In the months leading to Sept. 2013, filing states the business was generating approximately $50,000 in monthly gross revenues and parties agreed to start taking draws personally. Lawsuit describes difference of opinion on the amounts of draws and how they should be accounted for, until defendant one day informed plaintiff that he was removed from the company’s bank accounts. Plaintiff was also locked out of the premises and forbidden to keep operating the business as he had since it opened. Declaring an impasse between the parties as to who should operate it and concerned for defendant’s inexperience in operating it, plaintiff asks court to monitor dissolution of the company and award damages with interest, costs and fees. 10/28/2013 Universal Steel Erectors LLC vs Lonestar General Contracting Collection action filed seeks $12,821 from Nov. 2012 for steel fabrication services provided to defendant’s Pauma Casino project. Asks to collect with interest, costs and fees. 10/29/2013 Financial Pacific Leasing LLC vs Scott Martinson, Downtown Auto Body Inc. dba 6th Ave. Autobody Filing alleges breach of Jan. 2013 equipment lease and personal guaranty for alleged refusal starting in Aug. 2013 to make required monthly payments. Seeks $87,790.29 principal owed following sale of the collateral, plus $487.95 in late charges and $85 in collection expenses. 10/29/2013 Lakewood Dquare LLC vs Jeffery Schafer dba Banana’s Bar and Grill Complaint for breach of lease and seeking damages alleges defendant entered into commercial lease in Dec. 2012 for commercial space at 6008 Mt. Tacoma Dr. SW, Suite F, Lakewood, and personally guaranteed its performance. Filing claims payments required have not been made and space has since been abandoned. Seeks $45,091 for unpaid rents, additional rent, and utilities through Aug. 2013, plus $8,465 for damaged and missing equipment. 11/1/2013 Parker Paint Mfg. Co. Inc. vs Wood & Wood Inc., Jeffrey Wood Collection action seeks $1,273.39 for building materials purchased, plus interest, costs and $496.49 in collection charges. 11/1/2013
November 11, 2013 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | 21
SceneandHeard 1. The Rainier Grazers and Oly Can Man joined O Bee Credit Union personnel at the ribbon cutting of the credit union’s newest branch in Yelm.
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2. Olympia-based attorney Jessica Jensen speaks at the South Sound Success Small Business Conference on Nov. 5. 3. The Boys and Girls Club of Tacoma’s fundraiser at the Great Wolf Lodge on Oct. 25 attracted a capacity crowd. 4. Bett Lucas, 2013 Women of Influence honoree and sales manager for Targa Sound Terminal, turns out for this year’s Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber Annual Meeting, held at the Tacoma Convention Center.
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Scene & Heard is a feature in the Business Examiner that strives to promote business and community events as well as community awards around the South Sound. Photos submitted for this section are used on a space-available basis. Be sure submitted photos include caption information that describes the event and lists the names of the people in the photos. Photo credits are also appreciated. Submit items to the Business Examiner, 1702-B Tacoma Ave. S., Tacoma, WA 98402, Fax: 253.404.0892, or by email (preferred) to news@ BusinessExaminer.com. Highlight the local connection if it is not obvious. For additional information, call 253.404.0891.
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22 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | November 11, 2013
PeopleontheMove ADDITIONS n Heritage Bank has announced the addition of Tom Peterson as senior vice president and senior trust officer to the Heritage Trust Services Team. Peterson has more than 35 years in the financial services Peterson industry, most recently in a similar position at Key Bank. He will be located Olympia main office and will
service the Trust & Investment Management markets in both Thurston and Pierce County. n The City of DuPont has announced the hiring of Ted Danek as its interim city administrator. DuPont replaces Dawn Masko, who gave a 60-day resignation notice on Sept. 3. Danek has served as Spokane’s city administrator and recently served as director of marketing for Contineo, Inc.
PROMOTIONS n Thurston County commissioners have
named Cliff Moore as the new county manager. Moore has served as interim county manager since Aug. 16, when former County Manager Don Krupp left to be the County Administrator for Clackamas County, Ore. Before being named Interim County Manager, Moore served for four and a half years as the Director of the county’s Resource Stewardship Department, and has been with the county for more than 10 years.
ACCOLADES AND ELECTIONS n
Federal Way-based Doug Genord,
a technical fellow for The Boeing Company, is one of six new members elected in 2013 to SME’s College of Fellows. He has more than 30 years’ experience developing manufacturing and quality systems for fabrication and assembly operations. Genord supports the development and implementation of Boeing’s advanced manufacturing strategy. Genord joins more than 360 other SME members, representing various segments of manufacturing, since the program’s inception in 1986. n Kevin Ekar, immediate past chair of Capital Medical Center’s board of trustees, has received the 2013 Capella Healthcare Board Leadership Award for demonstrating exceptional leadership. This recognition is given annually to one board member from Capella’s family of hospitals. Ekar joined the board at Capital Medical Center in March 1992 and has held the role of chair or vice chair for most of his tenure. n Debra Kerner, president of the Staffing Association of Washington and of All StarZ Staffing in Kent, was honored at Staffing World 2013, the annual convention and expo of the American Staffing AsKerner sociation, held October 8-10, 2013 in Orlando. Debra received The Chapter Achievement Award for its outstanding programs and chapter efforts during 2013. n Brian Vance, CEO of Heritage Financial Corp. and Heritage Bank, is being recognized by Leadership Thurston County and its sponsor, the Thurston County Chamber Foundation, as a Vance Distinguished Leader Award winner. The honor stems from his leadership in the banking industry and his community stewardship. His model emphasizes a business model that focuses on fundamentals, paving the way for business success and contributing to wealth of the community. n Tumwater chiropractor Dr. Ron Wilcox of Family Chiropractic was recently elected to serve on the Washington State Chiropractic Association’s board of directors. He represents Congressional District 10.
Wilcox
Has your business recently added a new hire or promoted an employee? Maybe someone in your staff has won an award, or you’ve recently named an Employee of the Month. Send us the news at news@businessexaminer.com, and we’ll publish a brief in our People on the Move section.
November 11, 2013 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | 23
GuestColumn
Honoring the entrepreneurial spirit of our veterans Across America, there are over 250,000 service members transitioning out of our military and looking to start their own businesses. These veterans possess the unique skills, experience, leadership and drive that make them ideally suited to start businesses and create jobs in their local communities. We know that veterans over-index in entrepreneurship. Today, there are approximately 2.5 million veteran-owned businesses and these businesses employ nearly 6 million individuals. In the private sector workforce, veterans are more likely than those with no active-duty military experience to be self-employed. At the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Seattle District Office, we are committed to ensuring that our nation’s veterans have access to the capital, counseling and federal contracting opportunities they need to start, build and grow successful small businesses. In Fiscal Year 2013, SBA supported more than $1.8 billion in lending to over
By Calvin Goings Small Business Administration Regional Administrator
3,000 veteran-owned small businesses. And, as part of our partnership with the lending community, SBA worked with our top national, regional and community lenders to collectively increase their lending activity to veterans by five percent per year for the next five years through the SBA Veteran Pledge Initiative. SBA also offers special assistance for small businesses owned by or employing activated Reserve and National Guard members. For example, military reservist business owners and companies that employ a military reservist in a key position may qualify for SBA’s Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan program when an active duty call-up results in a fi-
nancial hardship on the business. Research shows that small businesses receiving counseling see increased sales and longevity and have hired more workers. SBA supports a nationwide network of Veteran Business Opportunity Centers which, along with SBA’s other resource partners, provide business counseling and training. In 2013, with our resource partner network, SBA has helped train and counsel more than 107,000 veteran business owners to date. Veteran-owned small businesses won more than $12.2 billion in federal contracting business in FY 2012. And for the first time ever, the federal government exceeded the three percent goal to contract with Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses. We’ve improved our collaboration with veteran-focused partner organizations like Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR); local college and university “Veterans Support Centers”; the U.S. Chamber’s “Hiring Our Heroes” Program;
State Department of Workforce Services “Veteran Representatives”; SBA Veteran Business Development Officers; and local military bases and posts. We’ve also increased outreach via veteran-focused events and training programs, including Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship, which provides focused business assistance to female veterans of all service areas and branches with a passion for and an interest in either starting a new small business or growing an existing one. Our nation’s veterans have helped reshape the American economy. At the SBA, we know that with the right tools and opportunities, veterans can continue to build our economy for the long-term; and the Seattle District Office is here to help. Contact Seattle District Office staff at 206553-7310 for more information. Calvin Goings is the area regional administrator for the Small Business Administration.
SouthSoundSelling Salespeople have questions; Jeffrey has answers I get a ton of emails from people seeking insight or asking me to solve their sales dilemmas. Here are a few that may relate to your job, your life, and (most important) your sales thought process right now. Dear Jeffrey, What is your opinion of tracking daily sales dollars versus activities that will result in revenue? Does it really matter if Monday’s sales dollars are lower as long as the month pans out in regard to your goals? My thought is “Who cares which day the dollars get posted as long as they do get posted.” — Ocha Ocha, so I’m assuming your boss is making you do this and he or she is paranoid you won’t make your number by the end of the month. Both of which, tracking the daily sales dollars and the daily sales activities, are stupid. What you need to do is track the sales cycle and know where you are with respect to that sales cycle and what your expected revenues are. Because if your expected revenues are underneath your daily dollars, but your daily dollars are over your goal, you think you’re doing well, when in fact, you could be achieving 20, 30 40, 50 percent MORE sales by making certain you’re looking at your target dollars not just your actual dollars. Received dollars are real easy to record, but if you’re a salesperson and your boss needs to know what activity you’re doing every day – whether you’ve made five followups and whether you did three cold calls – you’re doing it all backwards and you’ve
By Jeffrey Gitomer Buy Gitomer President
got the wrong boss. What you need to do is look at the sales cycle and parenthetically look at the dollars, but they have to be compared to what you projected those dollars to be. Dear Jeffrey, I have a regional billboard company with two years of experience. For the smaller, greener, and less connected salespeople of the world, how do you keep a strategy in mind at all times to help land clients such as AT&T, Best Buy, or Taco Bell? — Stuart Stuart, you’re not going to land those people without years worth of trying, banging your head against the wall, seeing their ad agency, and doing all kinds of other stuff. UNLESS somebody in your family, somebody in your circle of friends, or somebody in your circle of influence knows someone up high at those big companies. If they do, and you can be introduced, you can get in the door. And if you can get in the door with some kind of impact, you’re going to win. But here’s the secret: don’t just be selling them a billboard. Give them a design that helps them get a response. And maybe you could even
arrange with your company to give it away for 30 days to measure that response and go from there. The biggest mistake anybody in advertising makes is walking into a sales call with some kind of a media kit that shows how big a quarter page ad is, or how big a billboard is, or how many 30-second commercials there are. Go in with something already finished so people can look at it, like it, invite other people in to see it, and ultimately buy it. Jeffrey, You are pretty critical of CRM systems. They are here to stay, so how do you suggest we make them less threatening and more useful to the sales rep? How do you suggest someone shows the value of CRM to the sales users? — Mike Mike, Make the CRM applicable to the sales cycle, not just what they did on Tuesday. Don’t count the number of cold calls. Rather, study the sale from the beginning to the end and coach on that. That will actually help the person who is forced to use it. Keep in mind: Salespeople just want to make a sale. They don’t want to be accountable. They got into sales so they wouldn’t have to be accountable. But that doesn’t mean that they’re not responsible. And it’s the managers or the leaders responsibility to help them be responsible for themselves. Jeffrey, I sell broadcast television advertising in a small market. I have mountains of information that shows TV as a great
way to advertise, but how do I work that into my sales presentation without being overly analytical and pedantic? I need to give my prospective clients reasons to buy, but I don’t want to overwhelm them with data. — Dennis Dennis, Good. Nobody wants data. Everyone hates data and, in fact, no one believes data. Seventy-four percent of all people don’t believe data. Where did I get that number? I made it up. But it sounds good. It’s data. What you need are video testimonials from customers who have already advertised on your station, got great results, and are willing to recommend that another prospective customer use your TV station. That’s all you need. If that’s not working for you, or you can’t get them because you don’t have any relationships, then do a 30-second spot where you are the voice. And do a spot about whomever you’re trying to get - the car agency, the car wash company, the cemetery lot salesperson. Whatever it is that you’re trying to get people to buy, do that. You make the commercial. It’s 30 seconds. It’s only 90 words. Figure it out. You’re a smart guy. Your method of being pedantic is too pedantic. Making a commercial in advance and getting a testimonial – those are the only two ways to sell.
Jeffrey Gitomer is the author of twelve best-selling books including The Sales Bible and The Little Red Book of Selling.
24 | www.BusinessExaminer.com | November 11, 2013
We are pleased to announce a partnership between two local firms — Cornerstone Financial Strategies LLC and PHE Financial Strategies — to create one great financial planning team. This new partnership brings Values Based Financial Planning and coordinated Asset Management Services, through an ensemble team, to the Pilkey-Hopping, & Ekberg, Inc. family. PHE Financial Strategies will become a local partner with CFS just as other Financial Planning and Advisory Firms are partnered with CFS nationally.
For our joint clients, we bring over 60 years of hands-on experience in the team members of Laci Moyer, Bill Pickles, Brad Berger and Michael Pickles. And though each has knowledge of and experience with almost every facet of financial planning, each specializes in a distinct discipline. We operate as a team, not as “solo” practitioners – with each member responsible for primary tasks and all team members supporting the client relationship. Our emphasis is on Values Based Financial Planning. We help you Live your Ideal Life!™ by facilitating a process that: 1) Aligns your financial choices with your most important goals and your most deeply held values. 2) Gets your entire financial house in order and keeps it that way forever. 3) Gives you confidence that no matter what happens in the markets, the economy, or the world, you will be on track toward your goals. 4) Frees up mental & physical space and time so that you can focus on the things in your life that are more important than money. We are excited to introduce this local partnership, the ensemble of Laci, Bill, Brad and Mike, and the opportunity to put your plan in place today.
www.LiveYourIdealLife.com | www.phefinancialstrategies.com | 2101 N Pearl St. Tacoma, WA 98406 | 253.756.2003 Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Financial Planning and Investment Advice offered through Financial Advocates Investment Management, a Registered Investment Advisor. FAIM and Cornerstone Financial Strategies LLC are separate entities from LPL Financial.