December Thrive

Lace y Cha mber of Commerce

thrive!

December 2012 / Vol. 13, No. 12

Left: After being inducted as the new Chamber president, Lowell Gordon shared his vision for the upcoming year at the November Forum. See page 6.

Below: Courtney Schrieve (center), North Thurston Public Schools, with past cast members from Survivor, Michael Jefferson (left) and Sandra Diaz-Twine (right) at the Chamber annual auction. See page 5 for auction thank yous.

Inside this issue Calendar of Events

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President’s Message

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Wonderful Time of the Year

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Kidwiler Scholarship Thank Yous

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Sincere Thanks!

5

November Forum in Review

6

2012 Business Awards

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Celebration of Life Ideas

8

Trouble Sleeping?

9

Tech: Good, Bad, and Ugly

10

Business is Booming!

11

No Financial Planning Holiday

11

Disputing Incorrect Bill

13

Ambassador’s Corner

15

Follow us on:

Design and layout of the Thrive newsletter is performed by Essential Business Support.

Looking for Volunteers Committees are forming for the 25th Annual Golf Tournament and the 3rd Annual South Sound BBQ Festival. If you would like to serve on one of these committees, contact Stephanie Hemphill at 491-4141 or shemphill@laceychamber.com.

T HChamber I N K First

Where can I go to get pampered before and after the holidays?

Hand & Stone Massage Spa

438-3735

Merle Norman Cosmetics, Wigs & Day SPA 491-4911 Studio B Hair Design & Waxing Studio

915-9470

December Chamber Events

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Tuesday—Military Affairs Council 7:30 a.m.

Hawks Prairie Restaurant 8306 Quinault Drive NE

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Wednesday—Forum Topic: Recycling Speaker: Emily Orme, Thurston County Solid Waste Registration begins at 11:30 a.m.

Program begins at noon Saint Martin’s Worthington Center Cost: members prepaid online $18/at the door $25 Please prepay at www.laceychamber.com/register-overview/ Thank you to our Forum & Media Sponsors: Red Wind Casino

Earth Friendly Products

19 19s 24 Weekly

Tuesday—Ambassador’s Committee 12:00 p.m. (noon) Dirty Dave’s Pizza 3939 Martin Way Wednesday—Board Retreat Time: TBD Location: TBD Wednesday—Education Council 12:00 p.m. (noon) Brandman University 1445 Galaxy Drive NE, Suite 201 Monday (Dec. 24) and Tuesday (Dec. 25)—Christmas Office Closed Lacey B.A.N.G. (Business and Networking Group) Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m.

Copper Creek Coffee Company 4120 Martin Way E

Wednesdays, 7:15-8:45 a.m.

Best Western Suites in Lacey 8326 Quinault Dr. NE

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Thursday—Member Orientation 10:30 a.m.-noon and 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Chamber Conference Room RSVP to Tony Salas, 491-4141

Round Table Pizza 1401 Marvin Road NE

Space is limited in both groups, contact Tony Salas 491-4141 to reserve your spot. Free to attend, just the cost of your meal.

Friday—Government Affairs Council 11:30 a.m.

Panorama—Chambers House Restaurant 1751 Circle Lane SE

Sponsors Forum Sponsor Red Wind Casino 12819 Yelm Hwy Olympia, WA 98513 (360) 412-5000 www.redwind.net

Media Sponsor Earth Friendly Products

8735 Commerce Place Dr. NE, Suite A Lacey, WA 98516 (360) 489-3300 www.ecos.com

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Thursday, 11:30-1:00 p.m.

Board of Directors Executive Board Lowell Gordon, President, The Creative Office, 754-1732 Angelique Wilson, President Elect, Professional Temp Staffing Agency, 786-8443 Madelin White, Vice President, Merle Norman Cosmetics, Wigs & Day Spa, 491-4911 Mike Harris, Treasurer & Board Member, Columbia Bank, 459-3344 Marny Bright, Secretary, Business Examiner, 878-2158 Felix Peguero, Past President, Edward Jones Investments, 438-0341 Board of Directors Andrew Barkis, Hometown Property Management, 456-7368 Marny Bright, Business Examiner, 878-2158 Casey Cochrane, Puget Sound Energy, 786-5987 Tom Carroll, Network Communications International, 701-1532 Al Eckroth, Virgil Adams Real Estate, 701-3307 Grace Kendall, FASTSIGNS, 438-3800 Dan Nicholson, D Zines: Creative Solutions and Graphic Designs, 253-307-4903 Courtney Schrieve, North Thurston Public Schools, 412-4418 Mike Thompson, Capitol City Press, 943-3556 Brent Walz, OBee Credit Union, 528-5361

December 2012

We Have So Much to be Thankful For!

By Lowell Gordon, The Creative Office

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he other day I was commending our customer service manager here at The Creative Office about her passion for her job. She is focused, results oriented, committed, dedicated, and enthusiastic about everything she does here.

She was commenting on how, at times, she can’t stop thinking about our business and that she is always looking at ways we can improve things. What a wonderful situation to have if you are an employer. It’s employees like her that make companies successful and a joy to be a part of. We are so privileged to have her on our staff as she is an inspiration to all of us.

Since many of us have just filled our bellies and celebrated Thanksgiving, take the time to say “thank you” to someone who you appreciate. Maybe it’s someone on your staff, a Chamber member, a business associate, a neighbor, a soldier, or a family member. We all have so much to be thankful for, but so often forget to take the time to say thanks.

For the December Forum our program will be presented by Thurston County Solid Waste. This is very timely as we will be looking at the many ways we can recycle and correctly dispose of all our waste from the holidays. You won’t want to miss it!

Thank you to everyone for allowing me to serve as your president this year. It is truly a privilege to be a part of such a great organization.

Lowell Gordon, President Lacey Chamber of Commerce

This also reminds me of the dedication and passion our Chamber staff and volunteers have that make our Lacey Chamber so great. People could just show up to their area of commitment, but if they didn’t have a passion for it, it would truly show. As we enter into the holiday season, I want to take the time to say thank you to all of you out there that give so much of your time and energy to help our Chamber succeed.

Without your passion we would just be average. I truly believe that we are well above average. From the members of the Board of Directors, to our staff, to our many volunteers, we have the best. Thank you all who make this such an amazing place to live, work, and play.

Remember, in all that you do, be passionate about it. It will make a difference.

Chamber Conference Room Rental Rent the Chamber conference room to hold business meetings or present seminars.

Members $50–four hours $75–entire day

Non-members $75–four hours $100–entire day

These rates include seating for 14, wi-fi, and whiteboard.

December 2012

2013 Forum and 5:01 Surge

Sponsorships Available Hosting an after-hours business event or being a sponsor for our monthly luncheon is the perfect way to spotlight your business, launch a new service, or reenergize your Chamber membership!

Each of these opportunities is $350. Contact Stephanie Hemphill at 360-491-4141 or shemphill@laceychamber. com.

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It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

By Tony Salas, Executive Director, Lacey Chamber of Commerce

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ust like the classic Christmas song by Andy Williams, this is the hap, happiest season of all. The progress that your Chamber of Commerce has made in 2012 is significant.

Think Chamber First has truly become our culture and has created a buzz around the business community that is very satisfying. The energy level within the Chamber membership is spilling out to the rest of the city and county. I am looking forward to 2013 and those things yet to achieve in order to continue the pledge to bring value to your membership and develop additional ways to promote our members. I know as we continue growing in our commitment to shop each other first, there will be more success stories in the future.

Our focus on growth has brought comments from a few members about what relevance announcing our membership totals holds. While it’s great for the revenue of the Chamber, what does that do for you? With a number of new businesses and returning members, our increased membership provides more opportunities to connect with businesses that may need your products or services. This is a great opportunity for you to place new people in your sphere of influence and develop more productive relationships. Much of the growth in 2012 has come as a result of referrals from you, our members. Your help in growing the Chamber is a key to our continued success and I thank you for your commitment to our future.

It’s nearly time for the Community Resource Guide, and I know you are looking forward to participating in the official Think Chamber First publication. We are expanding the value by increasing your choices and reducing price points to allow more of you to promote your business in the Guide.

Information will be coming to you in late December about these opportunities.

Another great and fun way to promote your business is in the Thrive. We continue to look for fun facts, trivia, or other tidbits that set your business apart for the Hmmm…Didn’t Know That! segment of the Thrive. If your business is on the cutting edge of something, sells more of anything, was ranked as the top of a category, or anything that sets you apart, submit that information to the Chamber office by the 15th of the month.

Holiday time is here and it seems like the years are going faster and faster. On behalf of the Chamber staff, I wish you a calm, peaceful shopping season; that all of your meals have the taste

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of a million calories and the impact of zero; that your families remain safe and comfortable and you enjoy a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanza, and a safe and Happy New Year.

y p ap ays!

H olid H

Think Chamber First

Kidwiler Scholarship Fund Thank Yous

The Lacey Chamber would like to thank these member businesses who donated raffle prizes to benefit the Kidwiler Scholarship at the November 2012 Forum: A Steve’s Professional Truck Mounted Steam Cleaning— Flowers and 30% Carpet Cleaning Annie’s Unique Gifts & Gift Baskets—Chocolate Sipping Chocolate Cabinets by Trivonna—Gold Brick of Coffee Community Values Magazine—$10 Twister Donuts Gift Certificate Custom Security—Fire Extinguisher D Zines: Creative Solutions & Graphic Designs—Space Pen Edward Jones, Felix Peguero—Stress Pig FASTSIGNS—Umbrella Imagine Realty, Hal & Anita Yarber—Multi-Task Tool Set KDH Business Services—M&M Bag Kluh Jewelers—5 Free Watch Batteries NCI – Tom Carroll—Bottle of Wine Precision Time Direct—17 Jewel Mechanical Pocket Watch Red Wind Casino—Mug and Stylus Pen Ruddell Road Dental Center—Teeth Whitening Kit S. Stewart Ridgeway, CPA—Firebird Blend Coffee South Bay Press—Framed Artwork Thank you for your continued support!

December 2012

Our Sincere Thanks!

Thank you to all who made our 2012 annual fund-raising auction, Shipwreck Island, a great success! As usual, we are completely in awe of your generosity! We appreciate and thank you for your continued support year after year!

Presenting Sponsor

Executive Sponsors

Special Thanks to:

Thank You to 2012 Donors

Master of Ceremonies: Jerry Farmer, 94.5 ROXY Auctioneer: Dave Ryckman, Stokes Auction Group Auction Spotters: Tom Carroll, Network Communications, Inc.; Dusty Pierpoint, Lacey Police Department; Madelin White, Merle Norman Cosmetics, Wigs & Day SPA; Andrea Barkis, Hometown Property Management PowerPoint created by: Chris Lester Basket Design: Annie Cappiello Catering: Paprika Catering Bar: Pints & Quarts

94.5 ROXY A Steve’s Professional Truck Mounted Steam Cleaning Adair Homes Advanced Plumbing Technologies AGC Banquet & Event Center Anchor Bank Annie’s Unique Gifts.com Arvilla Moore B&R Flooring America Barefoot Lawn Cabinets by Trivonna Capitol City Press Cascade Driving School Charlotte Dickison Chicago Title Chris Lester Insurance Services Clearview Auto & Window Glass Club Z ! In Home Tutoring Services Colonial Inn Senior Apartments Columbia Bank Costco Courtney Schrieve D Zines: Creative Solutions & Graphic Designs Dayle Designs Dinners Done Right Dirty Dave’s Pizza Parlor Earth Friendly Products Edward Jones Investments - Felix Peguero Energy Efficiency First FASTSIGNS Front Stream Payments Great Wolf Lodge Hampton Inn & Suites - Dupont Heritage Bank Hometown Property Management Hunter’s Tree Farm Imagine Real Estate Intercity Transit Irish Alana Salon Jerry Farmer KDH Business Services Karen Schade Ken Balsley Kluh Jewelers Legal Shield - John Bradburn

Auction Committee Members Madelin White, Merle Norman Cosmetics, Wigs, & Day SPA; Dan & Shelly Nicholson, D Zines; Charlotte Dickison, Greater Olympia Dixieland Jazz Festival; Dave Langston, Morningside; Jessica Robertson, Morningside; Don Riggan, Guild Mortgage; Felix Peguero, Edward Jones; Lowell Gordon, The Creative Office; Marny Bright, Business Examiner; Annie Cappiello, Annie’s Unique Gifts and Gft Baskets; Arvilla Moore, Imagine Real Estate; Tabitha Johnson, The Ranger/Northwest Airlifter

Volunteers Jeff Klingberg, Ross Irwin, Kelly Wilson, Mike Wolfe, Kelli Hegsted, Kyla Salas, Reid Hemphill, Colleen Head, Jill Lane, Tammy Redmon, Jessica Hopkins, Dale Riutta, Madelin White’s grandchildren (K.C., Michael, Natasha, & Nikky)

Dessert Auction Providers Annie Cappiello Arvilla Moore Bonjour Cupcakes Costco Crystal’s Cake Affair D Zines Felix and Nicole Peguero Occasions Catering and Special Events Paprika Catering Pat Leslie Pellegrino’s Italian Kitchen Red Wind Casino Sugar Canvas Boutique Bakery

December 2012

Link Real Estate Group Lloyd’s Transmission Lori Sevier - Mary Kay Lucky Eagle Casino Market Spice Meredith & Scott Yenne Merle Norman Cosmetics, Wigs & Day SPA Mutual of Omaha - Mike Wolfe Myrna Weston Network Communications International North Thurston Public Schools Olympia Federal Savings Panorama PCI Pest Control Presicion Time Direct Prime Development Group Professional Temp Staffing Agency Professional Touch Massage Quadrant Homes Red Lion Hotel-Olympia Reed Solutions Group The Rock ROUSE EyeCARE CENTER S. Stewart Ridgeway, CPA Seattle Seahawks Seattle Sounders FC Shocking Difference South Bay Press Sign-A-Rama Spa Services Plus Starbucks Sterling Savings Stottle Winery TAGS Awards & Specialties The Creative Office The Guardsman Menswear & Tuxedo Rental Thurston County Coroner-Gary Warnock Thurston Talk TwinStar Credit Union United Roofing Solutions U.S. Martial Arts Center Washington Center for the Performing Arts Williams Group Marketing + Design Wind Up Here

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November Forum—New Board of Directors/Business Awards

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he November Forum is always a highly anticipated and fun event for Lacey Chamber members. It is time to introduce the newly appointed board of directors and unveil the recipients of the business awards.

In celebration of their 90th anniversary, the Port of Olympia was the Forum sponsor, and Port Commissioner Bill McGregor spoke on the Port’s behalf. Those in attendance learned a little bit about how the Port of Olympia operates, why they are so important to our area, and their continued growth and job creation. McGregor wrapped up his talk by inviting the community to come to the Port of Olympia to learn more about their business with a fun marine terminal tour.

The media sponsor for November was D Zines: Creative Solutions and Graphic Designs. Dan Nicholson, owner and founder of the company, talked about the power of promotional products and how his business can help in this area. He spoke about his beginnings as a t-shirt shop owner and how that catapulted into a design and promotional product company. He showcased some of his work, which includes the Shipwreck Island logo, invitations, forms and more for the Lacey Chamber annual auction.

The event continued with the 2012 Lacey Chamber president, Felix Peguero, taking the lectern for the last time as president.

He spoke about the accomplishments of the Chamber during

New members, Leta Haskins, Westfield Shopping Center, and Colleen Head, Sugar Canvas Boutique Bakery, talk with Shirley Jones of T&S Cleaning during registration.

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the last year and how we have achieved record growth in membership numbers, launched the Think Chamber First culture, and had a very successful 2nd Annual South Sound BBQ Festival—among other things. He thanked his family, the Chamber membership, and board members who supported him during his tenure. He later announced the winners of the 2012 business awards for best new business, small business, medium business, and corporate business. Other awards included ambassador of the year, volunteer of the year, the president’s choice award, and recognition of the outgoing board of directors and past president (see next page for the winners).

Peguero concluded his time as president by inviting Lowell Gordon to the stage to take over the reigns as president for the 2012-2013 term. Gordon shared with the attendees his vision for the future of the Chamber and how members can get the most out of their membership by being active and attending the various community events, reading the Thrive and e-blurb, and volunteering as a committee or council member. Gordon finished by thanking Peguero for his service and introducing the incoming board of directors for the new term. Gordon’s first act as president was to introduce the new members to the Lacey Chamber and he wrapped up the event by inviting Peguero to the stage for the last time to draw for the Kidwiler Scholarship Fund giveaways.

President Lowell Gordon, Creative Office, Past President Felix Peguero, Edward Jones, and Stephanie Hemphill announce the Kidwiler Scholarship Giveaway winners.

December 2012

2012 Lacey Chamber Business Award Winners

New Business of the Year

Small Business of the Year

Medium Sized Business of the Year

Thurston Talk Dan Jones

Chris Lester Insurance Chris Lester

The Creative Office Lowell Gordon

Corporate Business of the Year

Admbassador of the Year

President’s Choice Award

O Bee Credit Union Lee Wojnar

Merle Norma Cosmetics, Wigs & Day SPA

Madelin White

Families of Lacey Chamber (Shown above are Felix and his daughters)

Volunteer of the Year Award

President’s Award

Past President’s Award

Charlotte Dickison for her many years of selfless service

Lowell Gordon thanked outgoing president, Felix Peguero

Jerry Farmer recognized for service as past president

December 2012

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Celebration of Life Ideas Submitted by Jill Lane, Funeral Alternatives

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fter a death, the family often wants to memorialize or celebrate the life lived. Whether in religious or nonreligious format, the opportunity to remember and to participate can be healing for both the family and the community.

Here are some ideas that were meaningful to families we’ve served.

Tabletop displays: Creating a table showing the loved one’s interests or craft is a great way to reflect on the life lived, along with pictures or collages put together on standing easels.

In a recent service the deceased was a rancher. The family brought bales of hay and placed a saddle on top with a rope hanging over the saddle horn. On a display table they had spurs and horseshoes, mixed among photos.

This expression stimulated both sight and smell, as the hay bales offered the smell of the ranch.

Music: Another sense to remember is sound, and music can set the stage. Music can be an important part of the time together and be reflective of the life lived.

Some families will combine special music and photos in a video presentation as a part of the service.

One service featured a barbershop quartet that sang as a tribute to their fallen member. In another service, a concert pianist played, while in yet another the family sang the “family” song.

Rose Petal Ceremony: Often times a “feature table” can be a focal point during the service, displaying photos of the deceased, flowers, candles, or the urn. We’ve displayed letterman jackets, boots, fishing gear, uniforms, and more.

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Many families will do a “rose petal ceremony.” A dozen roses or so are placed on the feature table with a container. At the end of the service attendees are invited to step forward, pluck a rose petal, and place it in the container. The petals represent the love, prayers, and memories of those who attend.

The container used can be very personal to the deceased. We have seen cut glass bowls, favorite cereal bowls, hats, boots, toolboxes, and tackle boxes. The petals can then be placed with the body in the casket or with the cremated remains, symbolizing the ongoing love of friends and family.

The service: A leader keeps things moving in an orderly fashion.

If you have a clergy person, they will walk you through things. If you do not have a church family, we have “celebrants” available who can lead the event. Also, a family member or friend can be a perfect leader.

The service content can include prayer, scripture, poems, music, and eulogies. The eulogy can be as simple as the written obituary or a detailed story. It can include personal experiences from the presenter and family members expressed personally or written down for someone else to read.

Stories and personal experiences can be an important part of the service time, where friends attending can share their thoughts.

You can invite specific people to speak or provide their thoughts in writing or open it to everyone.

Reception: We often see a reception after the service or the reception becomes the service itself. Sharing food and drink offers a nice transition, encouraging everyone to share stories in an informal setting.

The options to provide a meaningful event for survivors are vast.

Hopefully some of these ideas will help you generate some of your own. The most important thing we can do is remember the life that was lived and celebrate!

December 2012

Trouble Sleeping?

Submitted by Joanna Powers, Isagenix

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Sleep is essential for a person’s health and wellbeing, yet millions of people do not get enough sleep and many are suffering because of it. It is estimated that at least 40 million Americans suffer from over 70 different sleep disorders and 60 percent of adults report having sleep problems a few nights a week or more. Most of those with these problems go undiagnosed and untreated. In addition, more than 40 percent of adults experience daytime sleepiness severe enough to interfere with their daily activities at least a few days each month!

You know lack of sleep can make you grumpy and foggy.

You may not know what it can do to your sex life, memory, health, looks, and even ability to lose weight. Here are a few surprising—and serious—effects of sleep loss.

1. Sleepiness Causes Accidents Sleep deprivation was a factor in some of the biggest disasters in recent history: the 1979 nuclear accident at Three Mile Island, the massive Exxon Valdez oil spill, the 1986 nuclear meltdown at Chernobyl, and others. But sleep loss is also a big public safety hazard every day on the road causing an estimated 100,000 auto crashes every year.

2. Sleep Deprivation Can Lead to Serious Health Problems Sleep disorders and chronic sleep loss can put you at risk for: heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes. According to some estimates, 90% of people with insomnia—a sleep disorder characterized by trouble falling and staying asleep—also have another health condition.

3. Lack of Sleep Kills Sex Drive Sleep specialists say that sleep-deprived men and women report lower libidos and less interest in sex. Depleted energy, sleepiness, and increased tension may be largely to blame.

4. Sleepiness Is Depressing Over time, lack of sleep and sleep disorders can contribute to the symptoms of depression. In a 2005 Sleep in America poll, people who were diagnosed with depression or anxiety were more likely to sleep less than six hours at night.

The most common sleep disorder, insomnia, has the strongest link to depression. In a 2007 study of 10,000 people, those

December 2012

with insomnia were five times as likely to develop depression as those without. In fact, insomnia is often one of the first symptoms of depression.

Insomnia and depression feed on each other. Sleep loss often aggravates the symptoms of depression, and depression can make it more difficult to fall asleep. On the positive side, treating sleep problems can help depression and its symptoms and vice versa.

5 Losing Sleep Can Make You Gain Weight When it comes to body weight, it may be that if you snooze you lose. Lack of sleep seems to be related to an increase in hunger and appetite, and possibly to obesity. According to a 2004 study, people who sleep less than six hours a day were almost 30 percent more likely to become obese than those who slept seven to nine hours.

6. Sleep Loss Impairs Judgment, Especially About Sleep Lack of sleep can affect our interpretation of events. This hurts our ability to make sound judgments because we may not assess situations accurately and act on them wisely.

Sleep-deprived people seem to be especially prone to poor judgment when it comes to assessing what lack of sleep is doing to them. In our increasingly fast-paced world, functioning on less sleep has become a kind of badge of honor. But sleep specialists say if you think you’re doing fine on less sleep, you’re probably wrong. And, if you work in a profession where it’s important to be able to judge your level of functioning, this can be a big problem. Studies show that over time, people who are getting six hours of sleep, instead of seven or eight, begin to feel that they’ve adapted to that sleep deprivation—they’ve gotten used to it. So there’s a point in sleep deprivation when we lose touch with how impaired we are.

Joanna Power has a Masters Degree in Public Health and an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science. A former Division 1 Athletic Trainer Joanna has always had an avid love of athletics.

She is the mother of two epic young “men in training” and holds a Black Belt in Tang Soo Do Martial Arts. She can be contacted at joannapower25@gmail.com or 360-701-4231 for more information.

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Technology: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Is the digital age adding to your productivity?

By Denise Landers, , CEO, Key Organization Systems

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echnology: We love it.

We hate it.

We can’t do without it.

We resent it.

We rely on it.

We complain about it.

The above attitudes can change from day to day, or from hour to hour. Even confirmed techno-phobes now at least have a PC to explore the Internet and access email, as well as a cell phone and digital camera. From there you move on toward the ubiquitous BlackBerry and Twitter updates.

Several years ago, the complaint grew more frequent that it was becoming difficult to separate business and personal lives because of technology’s ability to find you anywhere. InterCall, a conferencing and collaboration services provider, has just completed a survey (March 2010) to evaluate how Americans regard technology today.

During this economic downturn, pressures have been ramped up. The results of this survey may either reinforce your attitudes or provoke you to make changes. Here are some of the key points: GOOD

• Helps you be more efficient and productive (81%) • Improves job satisfaction and morale when given good

1. Will it be more efficient than something I already own?

2. Do I have time to invest in learning to implement the new features?

The ugly part of technology stems from not pausing to consider these questions and then finding that your response would have been negative. At that point, you have invested unnecessary funds and/or added frustration and stress to your life because you have not mastered the latest purchase.

Just being new does not guaranatee increased efficiency and effectiveness.

Which of the above findings resonate with you?

tech tools (72%)

• Provides an advantage over colleagues (58%) BAD

• Constantly required to do more with less (48%) • Doing the job of two people because of the recession (39%)

• Taking time off is increasingly challenging (47%) • Needing to stay connected 24/7 (30%) • Not being accessible during vacations shows lack of commitment (24%)

UGLY There are two questions to answer before deciding whether to invest in another device: 10

Maximize Your Marketing Advertise in the Thrive!

Rates: Business card-size ad

$100 per issue

1/4-page ad

$150 per issue

1/2-page ad

$200 per issue

Full-page ad

$300 per issue

Contact Tony Salas at 491-4141 or tsalas@ laceychamber.com to reserve your space today.

December 2012

Business is Booming!

New Members AGC Banquet & Event Center Lacey, WA Contact: Annie Cappiello (360) 490-6086 Category: Event Space Community Values Magazine 3619 Owl Lane NE Olympia, WA 98516 Contact: Derek White (360) 459-8292 Website: www.mycvm.net Category: Community Resource Publication Key Bank 8303 Martin Way E Lacey, WA 98516 Contact: Deborah Quinton (360) 438-3425 Website: www.key.com Category: Bank

Rich Chapman Construction 1229 Merkel St. NE Olympia, WA 98516 Contact: Rich Chapman (360) 349-1506 Category: Carpenter Tammy Redmon – Business Growth Strategist 1910 4th Avenue E #169 Olympia, WA 98506 Contact: Tammy Redmon (360) 790-4098 Website: www.tammyredmon.com Category: Business Services

Renewals 10-14 Years Timberland Regional Library 15+ Years Capital City on the Course

Don’t Take a “Holiday” from Financial Planning Submitted by Felix Peguero, Edward Jones Investments We’re well into the holiday season now. And while the holidays are joyous, they can also be expensive. In fact, at this time of year, many people make spending decisions they end up regretting. But you can enjoy the holidays and still stay on track toward your financial goals by following a few simple guidelines, including the following: Set a budget — and stick to it. Whether you’re buying gifts or hosting holiday parties, you need to establish a budget and not exceed it. The people to whom you’re giving gifts and entertaining do not expect you to dig yourself into a financial ditch on their account — and they wouldn’t want you to do so, either.

Compare prices. With some searching, you can almost always find less expensive versions of those gifts you’re considering. But a word of caution: The earlier you start hunting for bargains, the better your chances of finding good prices.

Watch for “after-holiday” sales. The best bargains typically appear when the holidays are over. While these sales may not benefit you this year, they can prove quite valuable if you decide to “stock up” on gifts for the next holiday season.

Don’t over-use your credit cards. Try to limit your credit card purchases over the holidays. If you must use a card, at least pick the one with the lowest interest rate — and do the best you can to pay off the card quickly. Over the last few years, Americans have actually done a pretty good job of lowering their household debt levels — and that’s definitely a movement in which you’ll want to participate. Keep in

December 2012

mind that the higher your debts, the less money you’ll have available each month to invest for retirement, college for your children or any of your other financial goals.

Avoid dipping into long-term investments. If you find yourself coming up short when dealing with holiday expenses, you may be tempted to cash out at least a portion of your long-term investments. But this should be avoided, for at least two reasons. First, depending on the account you’re tapping into, you may face penalties, fees and taxes. Second, and perhaps even more importantly, you’ll be depriving yourself of resources you had earmarked for your key goals, such as a comfortable retirement. Of course, you may eventually be able to replace the funds you’ve withdrawn. But in the meantime, you’ve lost out on the growth potential these investments may have provided — and that period of lost opportunity typically cannot be regained.

Build a “holiday fund.” It might be too late for this year but, once the holidays are over, set up a special account for next holiday season. Even if you put in only a small amount each month, you’ll be pleased with how much you can accumulate in a year. Keep the money in a liquid, low-risk account — one that’s separate from any money you use for your normal day-to-day expenses.

By following these suggestions, you may be able to take some of the stress out of this holiday season — and possibly even brighten all the other seasons of the year, too.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

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7. When you have assigned or reviewed each appropriate account click on Close.

8. Click on the Run Report box .

9. Once the report is generated, review it and adjust the 1099 options at the top of the screen, if you are not seeing information that should be there.

10. Print this report and then compare it to your hard copy records.

11. Save this report and any changes to be used to process your 1099s in January.

If you have vendors/subcontractors that need 1099s and you do not have their Tax ID Number, you will need to request a W-9 from them.

Best wishes for the holiday season and for a smooth year end.

Kelli Hegsted, MBA KDH Business Services, LLC www.kdhbookkeeping.com 360.754.9545

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December 2012

Seven Legal Tips for Disputing an Incorrect Bill Submitted by John Bradburn, Legal Shield

I

t is important for consumers to review their monthly bills to ensure accuracy. Mistakes can easily show up on utility and cell phone bills, and correcting those charges in a timely manner can save you a great deal of money and stress. The following tips will help you correct any errors you may find.

1. Know your contract terms and billing rates. Remember, your LegalShield provider law firm can review your contract and help you understand legal jargon that can sometimes make such documents confusing.

2. Whether you manage your bills online or with paper, check the amount you owe each month and the details to make sure they are consistent from month to month.

Utility bills will likely fluctuate based on the season, but cable and phone bills should be fairly consistent.

3. When you notice an error, call the customer service line on your bill right away. Have a copy of your current bill and contract with you.

4. Take note of the time of your call and the names of any representatives you speak with.

5. If a representative cannot assist you, politely ask to speak with a manager who has the authority to correct the mistake.

6. Ask for confirmation of the correction in writing. Having a written record will help you if the problem is not corrected or happens again later.

7. If customer service cannot provide you with a satisfactory solution or you continue to get the run-around, call your LegalShield provider law firm. An attorney will be happy to assist you with your matter.

Contact for more Information: John Bradburn, LegalShield Independent Associate (360) 250-3548 or bradburnbizllc@gmail.com The content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only, and is not legal advice. Readers should be aware that while certain principles outlined on this site may be similar.

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December 2012

13

T H E R E S O R T I N Y O U R B A C K YA R D

Our vehicles are usually the second most expensive thing we own, after our house. For some of us it is the most expensive thing in our life. When you try out a new automotive repair shop, how do you know how well trained the technicians are that will be working on your vehicle? Look for a shop that has a Blue Seal with the words “ASE Certified” somewhere on the building or on their business card. ASE stands for Automotive Service Excellence. ASE is an independent testing agency and is currently the only organization that certifies automotive technicians. There are eight categories that are tested, and, while many technicians have a few of the eight certifications, a Top Shop will have at least one Master Technician on board, which means competency in all eight areas. Look for the Blue Seal.they’re less expensive than motors and linkages.

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN THE HEART OF WASHINGTON’S STATE CAPITOL • Free high-speed wireless Internet access • 16,500 square feet of meeting space • Full-service restaurant and lounge • Seasonal outdoor pool and whirlpool • Military rates available • Pet friendly

2300 Evergreen Park Dr. • Olympia, WA 98502 • (360) 943-4000

redlion.com • 800-Red Lion

Where Family Means Everything.

2415 Pacif ic Avenue SE

u

Olympia

Supporting Families and Education We make a donation to education for every new patient.

www.f isherjonesfamilydentistry.com

www.fisherjonesfamilydentisry.com

(360) 943-4644

Hmmm...

Didn’t Know That!

Costco will sell more than 3,000,000 pumpkin pies during “pumpkin pie season,” which runs from Labor Day to New Year’s Eve.

14

December 2012

The Ambassador’s Corner Mike Harris Columbia Bank

Bio Stuff Favorite Sport?

How long have you been an Ambassador?

Golf

Since January 2008.

Why did you choose to become an Ambassador?

It is a way to get to know other people and businesses that are members of the Chamber.

What benefits does your business get from you being an Ambassador?

It gets our name out there and people get to know a face behind the business.

Favorite Actor?

How about my favorite cheerleader? That would be Sea Gal Stephanie.

Favorite Movie?

I like all of the Star Wars movies, I can’t pick just one.

Favorite Vacation Spot?

I’ve got several, but I really liked my trip to Yellowstone.

What do you enjoy the most about being an Ambassador?

Favorite Childhood Toy?

Fellowship with other ambassadors.

Skateboard—there is an interesting story behind it!

What is your favorite Ambassador memory?

What is the first thing you recommend someone new to Lacey to do?

Think Chamber First!

.K eep t

hem in

focus.

Being a part of the M&M team (Mike Harris & Mike Wolfe).

p are s t n e Life’s mom

s iou c e r

O LYMPIA V ISION C

L

I

N

I

C

www.olympiavision.com

Olympia: 1625 Cooper Point Rd. SW • 360.357.6683 Lacey: 5210 Corporate Center Ct. SE, Ste. A • 360.459.2108

December 2012

15

The Lacey Chamber of Commerce 8300 Quinault Dr. NE, Suite A Lacey, WA 98516 Phone: (360) 491-4141 Fax: (360) 491-9403 E-mail: info@laceychamber.com Website: www.laceychamber.com

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Olympia, WA Permit No. 60

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

BOOM!

IGNITE!

SPARK!

“Local branding on a world of products.”

Mike Wolfe ORIGINAL

ORIGINAL OUTLINE

HEAVIER OUTLINE