Bellingham Business Journal, April 07, 2014 by Sound Publishing

Vol. 22 No. 4

APR 2014 Shift Yes: Using improv to improve company culture [Page 15]

The Buzz Burlington Coat Factory to open Bellingham store The company expects to open its new location by October in the former Meridan Street Cost Cutter. RETAIL, PAGE 3

Double financial hit for property owners at Oso mudslide Without landslide insurance, many will still be on the hook for their mortgages. OSO, PAGE 5

Whatcom CC remains in expansion mode New developments, rennovations planned at Bellingham two-year college. EDUCATION, PAGE 8 Frank Trosset, head brewer at Aslan Brewing Co. in Bellingham, monitors the temperature inside his brewing kettle while making a batch of Aslan Gold beer. Trosset, a self-taught brewer, and his business partners, Jack Lamb and Pat Haynes, hope to open their brewery by late April or early May. “It’s been two years of learning,” Trosset said. EVAN MARCZYNSKI PHOTO | THE BBJ

Make room for more beer New breweries prepare to open as craft beer’s popularity pours over

almost ready to open their beer-producing facil- in regards to the growing popularity of craft beer. ity after developing a business plan while on an “To me, there is no limit to the amount of craft.” Lamb operates Aslan with his head brewer, overseas backpacking expedition. hat began as a conversation among Meanwhile, the city’s three existing breweries Frank Trosset, and general manager, Pat Haynes. friends over beers in a downtown tavenjoy busy nights, expansion and acclaim. The trio hopes to open by the end of April, or by ern is about to turn into a new microearly May, at the latest. In Bellingham, the beer business booms. brewery on the corner of Forest and Magnolia “It’s just a realization of options and quality,” Wander Brewing, at 1807 Dean Ave., on the streets. Jack Lamb, owner of Aslan Brewing Co., which Several blocks away, a husband and wife are is preparing to open at 1330 N. Forest St., said, BEER, PAGE 9 BY EVAN MARCZYNSKI The Bellingham Business Journal

The Book of Lists: Featured Rankings View rankings of local banks and credit unions from this year’s edition of the BBJ Book of Lists. LISTS, PAGE 6

Business Toolkit When online customers knock, is anyone there? TOOLKIT, PAGE 17

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2 April 2014

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Chad Kuehl, who runs Wander Brewing in Bellingham along with his wife, Colleen, inspects mash boiling in a brewing kettle. EVAN MARCZYNSKI PHOTO | THE BBJ

Larry W. Evans Branch Manager 360-738-2376

[9] A brewing expansion

NMLSR ID 856141

Aslan Brewing Co., Wander Brewing prepare to open in Bellingham, while the craft brewing industry sees nationwide growth.

Connect with us On Twitter @BBJToday

Anndi D. Pena

Home Mortgage Consultant 360-738-2363

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Ross Schram von Haupt

Home Mortgage Consultant 425-301-5710

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Ryan D. Martin Home Mortgage Consultant 360-293-1160

[15] Shift Yes

NMLSR ID 404824

Bellingham improv performer starts new business to teach communication and collaboration skills to employees.

On Facebook facebook.com/ BBJToday On Google+ Bellingham Business Journal

[4] Habitat for Humanity opening local store The Ferndale-based nonprofit organization will open a second Habitat Store on Cornwall Avenue in Bellingham, in the former location of Mayberry Sporting Goods.

[8] WWU sees problem at Everett center Barry Weafer

Home Mortgage Consultant 360-676-4709

Brandon C. Mankle

Reah Marie Dewell

NMLSR ID 634610

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Home Mortgage Consultant NMLSR ID 420701 360-738-2362

A changing of the guard at a university consortium in Everett has Western Washington University concerned about future allocations for jobs and funding.

Home Mortgage Consultant 360-384-4975

[6] The Book of Lists: Featured Lists [7] Market Indicators [17] Business Toolkit

[18] Public Records [21] People On The Move

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April 2014 3

The Bellingham Business Journal RETAIL

Burlington Coat Factory plans new Bellingham location discount apparel retailer will open in former home of Meridian cost cutter store

BY EVAN MARCZYNSKI The Bellingham Business Journal Burlington Coat Factory plans to open a new location at 4131 Meridian St. in Bellingham, where a Cost Cutter grocery store closed last year. Bill Cummings, a senior project manager with the company, said the proposal was in the bidding process in March. Construction was expected to begin in April. The store’s projected opening date is Oct. 10, he said, although that target is subject to change. Cummings said Burlington typically holds “soft” openings for its new stores, then later hosts grand-opening events with marketing efforts and charity giveaways. Further details on the new store are expected to be made available by the company as the project moves closer to completion. Burlington is a national retailer headquartered in Burlington, N. J. It operates more than 500 stores nationwide and in Puerto Rico. While known for their extensive selections of discount and off-brand coats, typical Burlington stores also feature a variety of apparel, including children’s items, as well as furniture,

FAST FACTS ▶Burlington Coat Factory intends to have its new Bellingham location open by Oct. 10, although the target date is subject to change. ▶The New Jersey-based retailer has stores around the region, including in Everett, Edmonds, Auburn, Spokane, Tacoma and Kennewick. ▶Burlington’s stores feature discount and off-brand coats and a variety of apparel items, as well as children’s items, furniture, jewelry, linens and shoes. It competes nationally with chains such as T.J. Maxx and Marshalls. jewelry, linens and shoes. The company competes nationally with other similar chains, such as T.J. Maxx and Marshalls. Burlington opened a new location in the Everett Mall last fall. It also has stores in Edmonds, Auburn, Spokane,

Sign up for our free email Visit us online at BBJToday.com to register, and start your mornings with the latest local business news sent directly to your inbox. The Bellingham Business Journal

Tacoma and Kennewick. Cummings said the company plans to eventually open additional stores in northwest Washington and elsewhere around the region, including possible locations in Burlington—of Skagit County—and in Vancouver, British Columbia. The company’s new Bellingham location will bring another large, national retailer to the city’s Meridian Street area. With the past year, companies such as WinCo Foods, Sports Authority and Sears have opened stores nearby. Cummings said converting the nearly 73,000-square-foot location, which was among the largest stores once held by the Cost Cutter chain, will be an extensive process. Along with interior remodeling, the store’s facade will get a complete facelift, he said. “It’s going to take a lot of effort,” Cummings said. “It’s going to take about 16 weeks to get it turned around.”

Evan Marczynski, associate editor of The bellingham business Journal, can be reached at 360647-8805, ext. 5052, or evan@bbjtoday.com.

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The Bellingham Business Journal RETAIL

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Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County volunteers Bob Matthes and Rick Smith help put up shelving in The Habitat Store’s Ferndale warehouse, prior to its opening in January 2012. The nonprofit plans to expand in May with a new retail location on Cornwall Avenue in Bellingham. BRIAN COREY PHOTO | FOR THE BBJ

Habitat for Humanity expands to Bellingham

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and across a street intersection from Bellingham High School. Habitat will continue to Habitat for Humanity in operate The Habitat Store Whatcom County plans to at 1385 Admiral Place in open its first Bellingham Ferndale, Moon said. The store in a retail building at Ferndale location opened in 1825 Cornwall Ave., a spot September 2009. once home to Mayberry The nonprofit’s stores sell Sporting Goods. used household items, with John Moon, the nonfurniture being one of the profit organization’s execubiggest sellers. Proceeds from tive director, said the new its retail sales help pay the store will allow Habitat for organization’s overhead costs. Humanity to have a location Habitat added a closer to its donor and volun6,000-square-foot warehouse teer base. next door to its Ferndale loca“We just feel that this is tion in January 2012, in order going to be a really good to sell donated building and location for us,” Moon said. home-remodeling supplies. “We’re really excited to be in The Ferndale store is Bellingham.” staffed with a mix of paid The new store is expected workers and volunteers, and to open in May, with a grandthe Bellingham location will opening event planned for operate in a similar manner, Saturday, May 31, Moon said. Moon said. The location is next door Habitat for Humanity in to Woodsmiths Furniture, BY EVAN MARCZYNSKI The Bellingham Business Journal

Whatcom County, which is affiliated with Habitat for Humanity International but operates independently, builds homes for local families in need. Since its founding in 1987, the nonprofit has constructed more than 30 homes in the county, according to its website. The Cornwall Avenue location housed Mayberry Sporting Goods from February 2011 until May 2013, when the retailer moved to a smaller location at 703 W. Holly St. Mayberry, however, closed for good in January of this year, citing an unrecoverable drop in sales. Prior to Mayberry, the building was home to a Sunshine Liquidators outlet.

Evan Marczynski, associate editor of The Bellingham Business Journal, can be reached at 360-647-8805, Ext. 5052, or evan@bbjtoday.com.

Construction hiring increases BY EVAN MARCZYNSKI The Bellingham Business Journal Construction job gains that labor economists have anticipated for the past year in Whatcom County appear to be materializing, according to new employment data released by the Washington State Employment

Security Department. While sector-specific numbers for construction are tough to pin down—estimates can sway depending on which firms economists contact for surveys during any given month—the latest data show local construction hiring is up, said Anneliese

Vance-Sherman, a labor economist for the state. The Employment Security Department estimates the industry’s employment grew by 9.1 percent in February (a gain of 500 jobs), compared to the same month last year. Whatcom County’s over-

JOBS, PAGE 5

April 2014 5

The Bellingham Business Journal

JOBS, FrOm 4 all unemployment rate in February, initially estimated at 7.6 percent, is a sharp rise from the previous month’s revised rate of 6.7 percent. Yet February’s jobless estimate is below an 8.1 percent unemployment rate recorded during the same month in 2013. Although the monthto-month increase in local unemployment appears steep, Vance-Sherman said the data are following seasonal patterns. She added that it is difficult to draw conclusions so early in the year. “January and February tend to have higher unemployment rates in Whatcom County, every year,” VanceSherman said. February’s estimates show Whatcom County’s private employers added 1,700 jobs last month, a year-over-year increase of 2.6 percent. Vance-Sherman noted the percentage increase in Whatcom County’s private sector jobs in February outpaced statewide year-overyear growth of 1.9 percent. Local job gains were reported in multiple industries. Retailers added 300 jobs. The financial activities and business services sectors each added 100. Sectors showing job losses included manufacturing (200 jobs) and leisure and hospitality (down 100). Public-sector employers in Whatcom County added 200 jobs overall in February. While the county’s labor force held mostly intact— Employment Security estimates show a drop of just 80 people in February, compared to the same month in 2013—Vance-Sherman said the lack of new additions to the local job market remains a concern. “We continue to see a weak labor force,” she said. Most counties in Washington state reported seasonal increases in their unemployment rates in February. San Juan County had the lowest jobless estimate in northwest Washington, at 7 percent. Island County was at 8.3 percent; Skagit County was at 8.8 percent. King County has the lowest unemployment rate across the state in February, posting a jobless estimate of 5.2 percent. Ferry County, in eastern Washington, had the highest, at 13.7 percent.

Evan Marczynski, associate editor of The Bellingham Business Journal, can be reached at 360-647-8805, Ext. 5052, or evan@bbjtoday.com.

OSO MUDSLIDE

Oso property owners face double hit Snohomish County homeowners impacted by March mudslide will still be liable to pay mortgages BY JIM DAVIS The (Everett) Herald Business Journal People who own property in the landslide area near Oso probably didn’t have insurance that protects against such a disaster — and, worse, they’re still on the hook for their mortgages. Standard homeowner and business policies specifically exclude damage caused by earth movement such as a landslide. A property owner would need to buy a special policy just to protect against landslides. “Myself, I have earthquake insurance, but I never thought about landslide insurance,” said Steve Valandra, a spokesman with state Office of the Insurance Commissioner. “I personally didn’t know that you could get landslide insurance.” More than 50 properties are located in the area of the devastation. People who own property in the slide area still owe what remains on their mortgages even if they can’t use the land. Arrangements will need to be worked out between the lender and the property owner. “The loss of life and property in the Oso slide is tragic and devastating, but the loans remain legally binding contracts to be repaid by the borrower,” said Lyn Peters, director of communications from the state’s Department of Financial Institutions, in an email. In Washington, only 4,700 home and business owners have purchased policies that protect against landslides, according to the NW Insurance Council, a nonprofit group funded by insurance agencies. That is out of 1.5 million single-family homes in the state. No insurance company in Washington even offers the policy. Homeowners have to purchase it from an agency outside the state. “Homeowner insurance polices are designed to cover risks everybody face,” said Karl Newman, NW Insurance Council president. “Fire, wind, burglaries.

An aerial view of the Stillaguamish River and State Route 530 after the Oso mudslide on March 22. The mudslide resulted in the damming of the Stillaguamish River in Snohomish County. Mud covering the area, including SR 530, is a mile wide. PHoTo CourTESy of THE waSHingTon STaTE dEParTMEnT of TranSPorTaTion That’s what makes those policies very affordable.” The average annual premium for a standard policy is $595. He said that anyone who owns a home above or below a steep slope should consider adding landslide insurance, which is called in the industry “difference-in-condition” policies. These policies cover landslides, earthquakes, mudflows

and flooding. “It is available, it is affordable, but a lot of people don’t know about it,” Newman said. Thousands of people are at risk for landslides in the Puget Sound area. Newman noted that the first

OSO, PAGE 22

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1015354

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The Bellingham Business Journal

The Book of Lists: Featured Rankings

Banks

Ranked by value of local deposits Rank

Company, local address

Phone/fax/website

Peoples Bank 418 Grover St., Lynden

354-4044/354-7263 peoplesbank-wa.com

Washington Federal Savings Bank 1599 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham

Employees

local executive/hq

Local branches

Local deposits

248

Charles LeCocq Lynden, Wash.

$644,733,000

733-3050/733-7019 washingtonfederal.com

Tom Kenney Seattle, Wash.

$362,373,000

Banner Bank 1600 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham

738-8090/738-8095 bannerbank.com

Cheryl Fischer Walla Walla, Wash.

$242,094,000

US Bank 121 W. Holly St., Bellingham

738-2600/738-2604 usbank.com

Ann Caldwell Cincinnati, Ohio

$240,000,000

Wells Fargo 3101 Woburn St., Bellingham

738-2331/738-2332 wellsfargo.com

Rakhi Samant South Dakota

$177,518,000

Credit UniOns Ranked by value of local assets

Rank

Company, local address

Phone/fax/web

Local Assets

Branches

Top Executive

Employees

Members

Whatcom Educational Credit Union 600 E. Holly St., Bellingham

676-1168/733-5443 wecu.com

$710,000,000

Wayne Langei

266

63,700

Industrial Credit Union P.O. Box 1767, Bellingham 98227

734-2043/671-0975 industrialcu.org

$188,000,000

Terri Salstrom

22,000

North Coast Credit Union 1100 Dupont St., Bellingham

671-8235/733-3982 norhtcoastcu.com

$167,761,740

Terry Belcoe

15,000

WestEdge Credit Union (formerly GaPac) 2501 James St., Bellingham

734-5790/734-9249 westedgecu.org

$50,600,000

Katie Zowada

4,300

Pacific Northwest Credit Union 3250 Northwest Ave., Bellingham

647-0560/647-0713 pacificnwcu.com

$20,000,000

Karin E. Pelan

2,200

What is the Book of Lists?

he Bellingham Business Journal’s Book of Lists is an annual report of Whatcom County business statistics useful for prospecting and fact-finding in the region’s key industries. It is published each February as a supplement to the BBJ, and select lists are featured in the journal each month. The full book contains more than two dozen listing categories, including fields such as real estate, manufacturing, financial and professional services, technology, health care, hospitality, recreation, automotive and marine services, and large public and private sector employees. We hire a researcher to contact local businesses and organizations to ask for the information contained in the lists. Rankings are generated based on those responses, as well as additional research,

where necessary. There is no charge to be included in the book, and we assume that information provided by companies is accurate. Due to space constraints, the lists include only the highest ranking firms. Some firms choose not to be included, or do not return requests for information before the book’s annual deadline. Some of the lists featured in monthly editions on the BBJ will also be shortened, due to space constraints. These lists rely on research completed last year, and some items may have changed since then. We make every attempt to provide accurate information. But if you notice an error or beleive something important has been omitted, please contact us at 360-6478805.

DiD you miss the last Book? You can pick up a copy, or get extras for home or work, at our office, located at 1909 Cornwall Ave. Also check out our online “green” edition, available at BBJToday.com.

April 2014 7

The Bellingham Business Journal

Market Indicators

Jobs: Unemployment rate sees seasonal rise Unemployment Rate

Jobless benefit claims

February 2014: 7.6% February 2013: 8.1%

Includes non-seasonally adjusted figures in Whatcom County

10%

Bankruptcies

Year-to-date: 65 Annual change: �23.08%

February 2014: 2,774 February 2013: 2,844

Includes continued unemployment benefit claims in Whatcom County

Includes filings for Chapters 7, 11 and 13 in Whatcom County

4,000

70 50

2,000

30 20

1,000

Chapters 11,13 Chapter 7

3,000

10 J F 2013

J F 2013

J F 2014

SOURCE: WASHINGTON STATE EMPLOYMENT SECURITY DEPARTMENT

J F 2014

SOURCE: WASHINGTON STATE EMPLOYMENT SECURITY DEPARTMENT

J F 2013

J F 2014

SOURCE: U.S. BANKRUPTCY COURT, WESTERN DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON

Spending: Sales-tax disbursement hits highs Sales-tax distribution

Motor-vehicle registrations

Year-to-date: $3.65M Annual change: �1.39% Includes basic and optional local sales tax to Bellingham

Canadian dollar

February 2014: 837 February 2013: 861

February 2014: $0.90 February 2013: $0.99

Includes original registrations in Whatcom County

Includes monthly averages (Canada-to-U.S.) at market closing

1,250

$2.25M $2M $1.75M $1.5M $1.25M $1M $750K $500K $250K

$1.05

1,000

J F 2013

750

$0.95

500

$0.90

250

$0.85 J F 2013

J F 2014

SOURCE: WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE

$1.00

J F 2014

SOURCE: WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING

$0.80

J F 2013

SOURCE: BANK OF CANADA

Housing: Closed sales up, median price down Home sale prices

Residential sales

$350K $300K $250K $200K

Average price Median price

$150K $100K $50K J F 2013

Foreclosures & Delinquencies

Closed: Year-to-date: 299 Annual change: �4.91% Pending: Year-to-date: 470 Annual change: �5.05%

Average: February 2014: $256,727 February 2013: $249,326 Median: February 2014: $222,000 February 2013: $233,500 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50

J F 2014

Delinquency rate: January 2014: 3.03% January 2013: 4.14% Foreclosure rate: January 2014: 1.04% January 2013: 1.58%

4.5% 4% 3.5% 3% 2.5% 2% 1.5% 1% 0.5%

Pending sales Closed sales

J F 2013

J F 2014

SOURCE: NORTHWEST MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE

Delinquency rate Foreclosure rate

J F 2013

J 2014

SOURCE: CORELOGIC

Other factors: Air travel lower in early 2014 Airport traffic

Cruise terminal traffic

Year-to-date: 80,778 Annual change: �10.57%

Building-permit values

Year-to-date: 2,487 Annual change: �2.51%

Includes total enplanements at Bellingham International Airport

Bellingham: Year-to-date: $21.77M Annual change: �13.61%

Includes inbound/outbound passengers at Bellingham Cruise Terminal

70K

$30M

4,500 4,000 3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500

60K 50K 40K 30K 20K 10K J F 2013

SOURCE: PORT OF BELLINGHAM

J F 2014

$25M $20M $15M $10M $5M J F 2013

SOURCE: PORT OF BELLINGHAM

J F 2014

J F 2013

SOURCE: CITY OF BELLINGHAM

Notes: Graphs include the most recent data available at press time. Annual changes show cumulative difference from the same time period during the previous year. Data include raw numbers only and are not adjusted to account for any seasonal factors.

J F 2014

8 April 2014

The Bellingham Business Journal

EDUCATION

Whatcom CC continues to expand Bellingham two-year college adds, renovates facilites to meet demands of larger student population BY EVAN MARCZYNSKI The Bellingham Business Journal Leaders at Whatcom Community College plan to continue a recent spate of building activity for several more years as they move to meet the needs of a growing student population. Some of the school’s new capital projects include renovations to its gym and student recreation center and the development of a new campus services and technology hub expected to open in fall 2017. That hub—which has been named the Phyllis and Charles Self Learning Commons, after two longtime college supporters and scholarship benefactors—will be a 65,000-square-foot facility housing the campus’ library, as well as expanded space for technology, academic support, media and tutoring resources. Nathan Langstraat, the college’s vice president for administrative services, said in addition to adding new space for an array of student services, particularly the technology resources now vital in college classrooms, the building should also help make the school’s resources more

Concerns at WWU as changes come to uni-center BY JERRY CORNFIELD The (Everett) Daily Herald

A rendering of Whatcom Community College’s future Phyllis and Charles Self Learning Commons, expected to open in fall 2017. image courtesy of WHatcom commuNity coLLege

WCC, PAGE 22

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EDUCATION

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With Washington State University poised to settle permanently in Everett this summer, two other universities want assurances their programs don’t face future eviction from the community. WSU is on course to replace Everett Community College as operator of the University Center of North Puget Sound, a consortium of public and private colleges offering degree programs to hundreds of students on the EvCC campus and online. Western Washington University and the University of Washington are part of the consortium. They are concerned that their share of enrollment slots are in jeopardy once WSU, also a center member, takes over management duties on July 1. Lobbyists for the two universities and Central Washington University pressed lawmakers this past session to put language in the state budget assuring each of them a certain number of full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment slots, and the money that comes with those, when the change of command takes place. WSU officials, who stand to eventually gain control of 310 FTEs and $1.9 million in state funds, ardently objected. They said the language wasn’t needed, as they intend to run the center as it’s been run by EvCC for nearly a decade. “This was one of the great fights of the session. No peace could be achieved,” said Rep. Hans Dunshee, D-Snohomish, who was barraged from all sides up to the final day. “They’ve got to learn to trust each other. They’ve got to learn to get along.” The dispute appears to be seeded in the 2011 law that transferred the control of the University Center to WSU. Leaders of the UW, Western and Central opposed the transfer and fretted about whether WSU would strive to sustain the consortium or use it as a beachhead for a branch campus. Their concern is focused

WWU, PAGE 22

April 2014 9

The Bellingham Business Journal

(Left) Chad Kuehl, who runs Wander Brewing in Bellingham along with his wife, Colleen, inspects mash boiling in a brewing kettle. (Above) Like many brewers, Frank Trosset of Aslan Brewing Co., utilizes digital temperature displays along with a stirring-rod thermometer to monitor the mash-boiling process. EvAN mARczyNski pHOTOs | THE bbJ

BEER | CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE

New Bellingham breweries hope to open by early May meant to bring customers “It’s just a realization of experience, Chad would later Signs Plus Inc. location, due closer to the brewing process. complete brewing education to its proximity to downtown On the production floor, options and quality. To courses at the American Bellingham, as well as nearby Chad said they will be capa- me, there is no limit to Brewers Guild in Vermont. bike trails and bus stops. ble of producing 2,000 bar- the amount of craft.” He also worked in the brewThe size of the space was rels of beer annually, using a ery at Hilliard’s Beer in Seattle. also a determining factor. Colleen is currently workAslan has about 6,000 20-barrel brewing setup. JACK LAMB ing toward a craft-brewing square feet of room for brewThe barrel is the standard OWNER unit of volume measurement AslAN bREWiNg cO. business certificate, which is ing production, Lamb said. in the brewing industry. One offered online by Portland And their business plan is barrel is equal to 31 U.S. galState University. geared toward expansion. lons, which could fill 248 pint With a 15-barrel producAslan Brewing Co. glasses. tion system, the company Wander will focus on beer Lamb, Trosset and Haynes initially projects it will be varieties uncommon to Bellfounded Aslan in September capable of producing about ingham, Chad said. Some 2012, first establishing a pilot 2,800 barrels of beer annually. offerings include a Belgian Along with beer, Aslan will brewery in a garage behind “abbey-style” beer and barrelthe Upfront Theater on Bay offer wine, homemade soda aged brew, ripened over 8-10 and a food menu designed Street. months using bourbon casks Trosset, a self-taught brew- by chef Jordan Barrows. The imported from Kentucky. er, set to work developing restaurant will seat about 180 Chad said Wander’s beers beer recipes, eventually test- people. It will include a tastwill be less hop-focused than ing more than 100 varieties. ing room and an upstairs a lot of the varieties that are Lamb said they picked area that can be rented out currently popular, although their permanent Forest Street the brewery does plan to prohome, which used to be a BEER, PAGE 10 duce a rye IPA. While Wander is designed Proud to be your LOCAL Honda Dealer as a production brewery, with a heavy focus on distribution DOUBLE DOUBLE The Engine Warranty up to to local restaurants and bars, 10 Years Years 10 Chad said they will maintain On Any New 2034 James St. an active tasting room. Honda Power Equipment of OPTI-4! Along with pints and Bellingham, WA 98225 WithCometheinpurchase Today for Details! “We Got It” kegs, the brewery will offer growlers and 750-milliliter bottles, slightly larger than Get More Features, More Value and Mower Savings! the 22-ounce versions traditionally seen in the craft Up to $100 Off Select Mowers! Limited-Time Warranty Extensions! Special Financing Available! brewing business. Honda Lawn Mower - Very SMART. The ultimate mowing machines are now even better! Our HRR and HRX lineups are designed with all-new features that make these mowers He projected Wander’s Simple, Money Saving, Adaptable, Reliable & Time Saving HRR216VKA HRR216VLA tasting room sales will make HRX217HYA MSRP $479 MSRP $579 MSRP $799 up 20-25 percent of its total $399* business, at least initially. $499*3 + 1 $699* 5 +1 3 +1 The Kuehls started their 4 YEAR 6 YEAR 4 YEAR path into the industry after picking up homebrewing in 2007 while living in San Offers subject to Dealer participation and product availability. *Minimum Advertised Priced. +The Honda 1 Year Extended warranty Event offer is good on all HRS, HRR, and HRX series purchased 3-1-14 through 5-31-14. Francisco. Visit us on our Local website at: www.HardwareSales.net . Shop online at: www.HardwareSales.com Along with the hands-on

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west edge of downtown Bell- breweries and brewpubs are, ingham, is run by Chad and in a deeper sense, turning Colleen Kuehl. They have set into the community meetthe first weekend of May as ing spaces of the modern era, with most serving nonalcotheir target opening date. Also, John Luciano and holic products for crowds of Jack Plueger have applied all ages, and many featuring for licensing from the Wash- food and live music. “[They’re] becoming the ington State Liquor Control Board to open a microbrew- neighborhood tavern,” he ery at 1009 Larrabee Ave., in said. Fairhaven. Their venture is called Wander Brewing Stones Throw Brewery. An The Kuehls plan to have opening date there has yet an 80-seat tasting area with a to be announced. rotating selection of 10 beers Local brewers say their on tap, along with a root beer industry is bolstered not only and a cider. Although they by beer’s growing popularity will not serve food in the and a strong ethic to buy local, brewery, they do plan to have but also by the cooperative outdoor seating space with nature of Bellingham’s com- room for a food truck in an peting producers. adjacent alleyway. The city’s established brewWander’s facility sits in a eries regularly collaborate warehouse in between Dean to support local events, and and Cornwall avenues. the startups say they have Finding such a unique received insight and advice space, close to downtown from more experienced play- and with plenty of room for ers. expansion, was among their “It’s kind of counterintui- greatest startup challenges, tive,” said Janet Lightner, the the Kuehls said. Wander’s general manager at Boundary faculty features 33-foot high Bay Brewery. “It’s like a con- ceilings and remnants of a structive kind of competition. multi-ton crane system that It’s collaboration.” was once likely used to haul Colleen Kuehl of Wander in boats for refurbishing. Brewing said she thinks craft The brewery is keeping beer’s increasing popular- most of these architectural ity has as much to do with elements intact, while updata renewed interest in local ing plumbing and adding new products as it does with a bathrooms. grander shift in customer Wander’s interior design preference, particularly utilizes an open-floor conamong younger crowds. cept, with no walls or win“It’s just a changing time in dows separating the tasting the beverage industry,” she room on one end from the said. production area on the other. Chad Kuehl agreed, and Colleen said the aesthetic is added that he believes craft

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10 April 2014

The Bellingham Business Journal

BEER, FROm 9

data from the Beer Institute, a national brewers trade for private events, as well as outdoor seating. group that repreIts early beer offerings will include a ginger sents producers rye ale and an IPA the company describes of all sizes, as well as “dank.” as importers and Most of the Aslan’s initial business will focus industry suppliers. on in-house sales, Lamb said, although its beer Across the will also be available in local bars, restaurants nation, the number and eventually grocery stores. of active brewery Lamb said Aslan beer will be sold in kegs permits is reaching and cans. The canning aspect is somewhat record levels, and is atypical for craft production. Other small continuing a sharp brewers that sell beer in cans tend to limit rise going back to their use for seasonal brews or special events. the early 1990s. The company is focusing on offering variUsing records from ety to attract repeat business. The taps in its the federal Alcotasting room will rotate regularly, and Aslan hol Tobacco Tax should have its products certified organic and Trade Bureau, by the USDA in time for its grand opening. the Beer Institute “I think it’s the creativity and innovation reported in Febthat we hope will inspire people to come back,” ruary of this year Lamb said. that 3,699 brewerGetting their space in order has been the ies, including both greatest challenge for Lamb, Trosset and large and small Haynes. producers, hold The three completely gutted and rebuilt the operating permits interior of their location. Lamb said family in the U.S. today. and friends played integral roles in the brewAn analysis by Colleen and Chad Kuehl in the production area of Wander Brewing. The Kuehls have designed their brewery with an ery’s construction, particularly the expertise the trade asso- open-floor aesthetic, which will allow patrons to view the brewing process from a nearby tasting area. of Trosset’s father, Don Trosset, who works ciation showed evan marczynski pHOTO | THe BBJ in the local construction industry. that one-third of “We’d be three months behind if it wasn’t Bellingham’s brewers. More than 90 percent Chuckanut Brewery and Kitchen, opened American brewery for him,” Lamb said. “I have everything to permits exist in just four states: California, of the nation’s permitted breweries produce by Will and Mari Kemper in 2008 at 601 W. owe to that man.” less than 60,000 barrels annually, according Holly St., added five 20-barrel fermentation Colorado, Oregon—and Washington. to the trade group. tanks in 2012, after maxing out its capacity The Beer Institute figures account for perBroader beer picture Using slightly older figures that counted the previous year. mits for both large-scale breweries (think Washington saw 62 new brewery permits MillerCoors or Anheuser-Busch) and smaller actual brewers instead of permits (some Boundary Bay Brewery, which first opened issued in 2013, bringing the state’s total craft producers, a category that includes all of brewers own permits for multiple production downtown in 1995, moved forward with a brewery permit count to 251, according to facilities), the Brewers Association, another long-planned expansion in March. The brewnational trade group that focuses mainly ery added three 60-barrel fermentation tanks on small craft producers and homebrewers, inside a 4,000-square-foot space next door to reported 2,483 craft breweries were operating its home at 1107 Railroad Ave. in the U.S. as of June 2013. That represents Lightner of Boundary Bay said the expana nearly 6-percent rise from the year before. sion would boost the brewery’s production by The Brewers Association defines small nearly 30 percent. Brewery owner Ed Bennett brewers as those that produce less than 6 estimated the company’s new annual producmillion barrels each year. The group’s total tion cap would be somewhere around 10,000 craft-brewery count combines microbrewer- barrels, Lightner said. ies and brewpubs. The additional capacity should also allow Boundary Bay’s brewers to offer new beer Other local expansion varieties, she said. “We’ve really just scratched the surface with The industry’s trending growth is apparent lagers and ales,” Lightner said. among existing Bellingham breweries. Kulshan Brewing Co., which opened in April 2012 at 2238 James St., has since expand- Evan Marczynski, associate editor of The Bellingham ed its capacity twice. Kulshan was founded by Business Journal, can be reached at 360-647-8805, ext. David Vitt; its head brewer is Tom Eastwood. 5052, or evan@bbjtoday.com.

A BIG THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO MADE OUR

2013 CAMPAIGN A SUCCESS. CONGRATULATIONS

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SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR A FULL LIST OF WINNERS.

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The Bellingham Business Journal 11

April 2014

APRIL 2014

Sponsored content provided by Port of Bellingham

Port Partners with Small Cities for Economic Programs Projects aimed at improving the economy in four Whatcom County small cities got an extra boost in April with funding assistance from the Port of Bellingham. The project funding was approved by the Port Commission in support of recommendations from the Small Cities Partnership. Since 2004, the Port Commissioners dedicated money to a matching fund program to assist smaller cities with planning and engineering support to help them evaluate the feasibility of projects and move to the construction phase. This year the Port set aside $80,000 for this program. From 2004 to 2012, the Port contributed $445,322, which was matched by $639,429 from the small cities. These local investments resulted in over $12 million in local capital projects. “The Port’s Small City Economic Development Fund Program represents a

PORT OF BELLINGHAM

unique partnership between government agencies proving once again that small but concerted efforts reap long term benefits,” said Ferndale City Administrator Greg Young.

2014 approved projects: CITY OF BLAINE: $20,000 toward a wetland mitigation area that will be available to developers. CITY OF EVERSON: $20,000 toward the reconstruction of Kirsch Drive, the main connector for the commercial area on the east side of town. CITY OF FERNDALE: $20,000 toward extending Thornton Road to relieve traffic congestion on Main Street and access 50 acres of commercial/ industrial property. CITY OF LYNDEN: $20,000 for preliminary design for reconstruction of 7th Street, which connects the west end of Front St. downtown to Riverview Road, to support development along those areas.

CONTACT: Port Administrative Offices 360-676-2500 info@portofbellingham.com www.portofbellingham.com

MEETINGS: 3 pm on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month. Agendas are on the Port website.

1801 Roeder Ave. Bellingham, WA 98225

THE PORT OPERATES: Bellingham International Airport Bellingham Cruise Terminal Squalicum Harbor Blaine Harbor Fairhaven Marine Industrial Park Bellwether on the Bay Shipping Terminal Airport Industrial Park Sumas Industrial Park

HOURS: Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Jim Jorgensen, District One Michael McAuley, District Two Dan Robbins, District Three

A total of 8,780 Whatcom County jobs are generated and supported by Port of Bellingham operations. Those operations include Real Estate, Aviation and Maritime Services.

THE BREAK DOWN

5,539

DIRECT JOBS – businesses activity directly related to the Port (such as tenants, airlines, marina operations).

Economic Impact Study

2,137

INDUCED JOBS – jobs created when individuals in direct Port jobs spend income on goods and services in the region (such as food, housing, retail).

PORT ACTIVITY SUPPORTS HIGHER-PAYING JOBS:

INDIRECT JOBS – jobs created when firms doing business directly related to the Port make local purchases (such as office supplies, equipment, repairs).

AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE for direct job holders compared to $40,700 Whatcom County average (2012).

1,104

FULL REPORT AVAILABLE ONLINE AT www.portofbellingham.com/economicimpact

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Source: The Economic Impacts of the Port of Bellingham 2013, Martin Associates

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April 2014

Tourism Growth Slows Without State-Wide Marketing Funding Sponsored content provided by Loni Rahm, and Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism.

he preliminary 2013 Washington State Travel Impacts & Visitor Volume study has been released. The report -- prepared by Dean Runyon Associates for the Washington Tourism Alliance (WTA) -- documents annual travel trends and presents 2013 data for travel spending, visitation, tax receipts, international travel and employment. And, as the old saying goes, there's some good news and some bad news. Traditionally, the good news is presented first. The good news is travel trend analysis indicates that tourism in Washington State improved slightly in 2013. Visitation also grew slightly. The bad news is that the rate of growth has slowed. The worse news is that our destination competitors are outpacing us and gaining the market share that Washington State is losing. From 2012 to 2013

direct visitor spending was up 2.4 percent compared to the previous year's 3.6 percent. Visitation grew by 2.0 percent in 2013 compared to 2.8 percent in 2012. This during a time when neighboring states and British Columbia are seeing nearly double digit growth.

Travel industry professionals are disappointed, but not surprised by the latest figures. LouiseStanton-Masten, Executive Director of the Washington Tourism Alliance expressed concern about the

support statewide tourism marketing efforts," she stated.

State government closed the tourism office several years ago, earning Washington the dubious distinction of being the only U.S. state choosing not to invest in the tourism economy. The private sector

quickly mobilized to help keep a semblance of marketing momentum going. slowing rate of tourism growth in our state, particularly in comparison with the national growth rate. "We believe these figures support our message of the need for long-term funding to

The Washington Tourism Alliance (WTA) was formed to identify and establish a funding structure that could eventually propel Washington's destination marketing into a well-funded, competitive position. After a thorough review of several

strategic options, WTA proposed a self-assessment plan that was largely embraced by the industry.

Funding for the state-wide tourism marketing program took a significant step forward this legislative session with successful passage of HB/SHB 2229. This bill establishes a collection and distribution method for self-assessment of five industry sectors to support tourism promotion and marketing through WTA. Once in place, the self-assessment would generate a projected a $7.5 million dedicated entirely for tourism marketing. Although still a smaller tourism budget than Oregon, California, Hawaii, Brit-

ish Columbia, Montana and other western states, it would reflect the largest amount Washington has ever invested in tourism marketing. The funding would be generated as follows: Lodging: two million four hundred thousand dollars; Food Service: two million one hundred thousand dollars; Attractions & Entertainment: nine hundred

seventy-five thousand dollars; Retail: one million four hundred twentyfive thousand dollars; and Transportation: six hundred thousand dollars. The $7.5 million projected above would be in addition to voluntary contributions anticipated from various communities, tourism bureaus, tribes, ports and other travel industry partners and WTA members. Finally, Washington will be in a position to compete in the national and international destination marketing arena. Now that's great news!

Mark your calendar Visit our website or call for more details: www.bellingham.org (360) 671-3990

BWCT is pleased to welcome representatives from WTA and Miles Media to present additional information about their current and future tourism marketing activities. You are invited to join us on Wednesday, April 30th, 9-11 a.m. at the Springhill Suites by Marriott. Informational topics include "The State of the American Traveler" featuring tourism trends and research, creative best practices, taking advantage of free marketing opportunities on the ExperienceWA website, and optimizing/tracking effective advertising campaigns. No charge to attend, but we do need your RSVP to Angie@bellingham.org Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism 904 Potter Street | Bellingham, WA 98229 360-671-3990 | 800-487-2032 www.Bellingham.org Open 7 days, 9 a.m

The Bellingham Business Journal 13

April 2014

Ski to Sea week – fun for the whole family! By: Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce staff The Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce has an extensive history of promoting our community with events such as Ski to Sea, Junior Ski to Sea and the Blossomtime Parade.

These days, the Chamber is no longer responsible for the “big race,” but we have continued the tradition of the Junior Ski to Sea events and the annual Blossomtime Parade, formerly known as the Grand Parade. Spring Business Showcase enabling local

business to reach out to the public with our products and services that the public might not otherwise come in contact with. This is such a valuable service to the businesses that participate and to the public that attends. This year I’m excited to share with the public

When the sun is shining and it usually does, this event has been voted most fun to put on by the chamber staff. Bring your camera because you will see the cutest children, ﬂoats, pets and a variety of other sights. The Junior Ski to Sea Parade is held on Friday, May 16. Any-

one can be a part of this event by assembling at the beginning of the parade route (Cornwall at Kearney) from 4:306:00pm. Junior Ski to Sea Race teams are encouraged to participate! Registration is required for ﬂoats, car and trucks. Register at www.bellingham.

com. Everyone else is welcome to join in the parade without registering. In addition, the Junior Ski to Sea Parade is looking for volunteers to carry the banners for the parade. Banner boys and girls are usually middle schoolers.

Junior Ski to Sea Parade

Junior Ski to Sea Race Held at Lake Padden Park, rain or shine, the Junior Ski to Sea Race is scheduled for Saturday, May 17. Each year the six-member teams participate in a 5-leg race including running, a 3-legged race, biking, soccer and an obstacle

course. There are two opportunities for 3rd– 5th graders to participate and one race for 6th-8th graders and the community. Donated prizes are available for children including bicycles donated by Kulshan Cycles and other fun

prizes. Registration forms are posted on the Chamber website at bellingham.com.

for the food, beer and wine tasting, prize drawings or the free swag at vendor booths, this year you can also stop by the craps table, play slots or a few hands of poker or have a relaxing meal at one of Silver Reefs eight restaurants. This year’s Spring Business Showcase has it all!

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Sponsored content by BIAWC

The Building Industry Association of Whatcom County advocates for affordable home ownership and serves as the voice for our industry in Whatcom County.

he BIAWC serves its members and the community in many ways. We are a nonprofit trade organization that advocates for affordable home ownership and the home building industry. BIAWC members are directly involved in building, and in associated businesses – from landscaping to countertops, equipment sales, insurance, banking and real estate, water treatment, and security. Our membership reflects the multipli-

er effect that home building has in support of a strong local economy. BIAWC advocates with local and state government on behalf of our members and customers. We provide a year-round professional continuing education. We produce a Home & Garden Show early each March – this year was our 35th. Our Master Remodeling Council brings you a fall home tour. The Built Green® program certifies

homes that are built to high “green” building standards. In August, BIAWC hosts a Charity Golf Tournament that funds our postsecondary scholarship program. BIAWC also rents out its banquet and conference rooms at 1650 Baker Creek Place, in Bellingham, for meetings, parties and weddings. You’re welcome to visit us there or contact us for more information at 671-4247 or our website, BIAWC. com.

2014 BIAWC Leadership OFFICERS President: Cleo Callen, Dewatering Services First Vice President: Mark Schramer, Schramer Construction Second Vice President: Maria Callen, Dirt Works Secretary: Monty Smith, M.C. Smith Construction Treasurer: Stephanie Artino, Artino Advisory Group Past President: Don Robinson, Whatcom Construction BUILDER BOARD David Edelstein, Greenbriar Construction Doug Van Beek, Van Beek Drywall

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April 2014 15

The Bellingham Business Journal NEW BUSINESS

Shift Yes: Using improv to improve business Performer and marketing consultant’s startup offers help to employers seeking to strengthen company culture BY EVAN MARCZYNSKI The Bellingham Business Journal Improv is just as useful in a board room as it is in a comedy club. That’s the message behind Galen Emanuele’s new company, Shift Yes, where he uses improv principles in keynote speeches, small workshops and company retreats to help businesses improve their employees’ interpersonal communication and collaboration skills. “People really are every company’s most valuable asset,” Emanuele said. “There isn’t any group that wouldn’t benefit from being more cohesive or more connected.” Emanuele, who has performed and taught improv for nearly a decade, founded Shift Yes in late 2013. He has performed improv throughout North America and has made hundreds of appearances at the Upfront Theatre in downtown Bellingham, where he has also worked as a sales director. In addition to his performing career, Emanuele has 16 years of marketing experience. Shift Yes allows him to combine two of his greatest interests and skills, he said. Improv exercises revolve around hypothetical situations, where participants work together to create “off the cuff ” scenarios. Emanuele said all improv is based on an ethos commonly summed up as “yes, and,” the idea being that participants never reject their peers’ ideas or contributions to a particular scenario. Instead, they roll with them, and try to add their own elements. Incorporating improv into business-school classrooms has become popular in recent

years, as instructors view the practice as a way to develop better cooperation, innovation and listening skills. More companies are also turning to improv for the same reasons. While improv is usually associated with comedy, at Shift Yes, being funny isn’t necessarily the object, Emanuele said. Exercises are designed to encourage participants to collaborate, embrace change and adapt to quickly changing scenarios and input from their peers. The ultimate goal is to encourage ingenuity and optimism, pushing company executives and employees to focus on ways ideas might work, rather than ways they might fail, Emanuele said. It’s also about sparking companies to recognize the diversity of perspectives and backgrounds among their employees, he added. Having already worked with several large employers around the Pacific Northwest, including Microsoft and Western Washington University, Emanuele said he has noticed more company executives becoming mindful of their business’ culture—the intangible elements of a workplace that allow employees to feel valued and have a sense of investment in their jobs that goes beyond a paycheck. Emanuele said Shift Yes encourages businesses to create an “intentional culture” in their offices, one that is explicit about the Galen Emanuele’s company, Shift Yes, uses improv techniques to help a company’s employees company’s values and its direction. Having develop better collaboration and communication skills. PHOTO cOurTesy TO THe BBJ excellent company values, ones that employees actually buy into, can be the difference between thriving as a business versus merely existing, he said.

NEW BUSINESS

Attorney utilizes fixed fees, targets small-business clients BY EVAN MARCZYNSKI The Bellingham Business Journal A new Bellingham legal practice is embracing technology and abandoning the profession’s traditional bill-by-the-hour system to cater to the small-business community. Attorney Dawn Deans opened her practice, Kickstart Law, in Suite 426 of the Herald Building (1155 N. State St in downtown Bellingham) in early February. Deans specializes in an array of businessrelated legal issues, including new business formation, contract writing and review, and intellectual-property protection. She also offers legal advice for companies in Washington and British Columbia seeking to advance across the border. Deans attended law school at the University of Calgary. She practiced in Alberta and British Columbia prior to moving to the U.S. Kickstart Law offers most of its services with fixed fees, as opposed to the industry standard of charging by the hour. Deans also provides quotes for clients with more

specialized needs. Deans is not the first lawyer to use fixed service fees—some attorneys even work with a combination of fixed prices and hourly billing. But with the Internet making legal information much more readily available and accessible, she said she believes law firms need to adapt their business models in order to survive. “Lawyers don’t like to be pinned down for a price, because traditionally we haven’t had to do that,” Deans said. “But times are changing.” Kickstart Law’s setup is primarily designed with small-business owners in mind, Deans said. While she does have an office for in-person meetings, a lot of her client interaction is done by phone or email, and she encourages the use of Web-based instant messaging and videoconferencing through services such as Skype and Facetime. Utilizing tech tools for communication allows her to offer flexibility she feels small businesses need, Deans said. She also hopes the tools will let her attract clients from a broader geographic area, she said.

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16 April 2014

The Bellingham Business Journal

reAL eStAte

February residential sales up nearly 6 percent BY EVAN MARCZYNSKI The Bellingham Business Journal Closed sales on single-family homes and condominiums in Whatcom County increased 5.59 percent in February, compared to the same month last year, according to the latest report from the Northwest Multiple Listing Service. NMLS brokers in Whatcom County reported 151 closed sales that month, compared to 143 closings in February 2013. Fewer Whatcom County homes were placed on the market in February of this year, according to the report. There were

269 new listings in February, down 24.23 percent from the same month last year. Cold-weather months typically see less housing market activity than warmer months later in the year. The average price of closed home sales was $256,727, a 2.97 percent increase. But the county’s median sales price in February fell 4.93 percent, to $222,000. Housing inventory in Whatcom County, which stood at 7.52 months in Feburary, was above the regional average of 4.59 months.

By The Numbers Closed sales Units: 151 (5.59 percent increase) Average closing price: $256,727 (2.97 percent increase); Median closing price: $222,000 (4.93 percent decrease) Pending sales Units: 231 (9.77 percent decrease) Average list price: $273,039 (0.44 percent increase); Median list price: $240,000 (0.13 percent increase)

Active listings New: 269 (24.23 percent decrease) Total: 1,136 (2.07 percent decrease) Average price: $373,477 (1.72 percent increase); Median price: $284,900 (5.91 percent increase) Figures in parentheses indicate percentage increase/decrease compared to February 2012. Source: Northwest Multiple Listing Service

Evan Marczynski, associate editor of The Bellingham Business Journal, can be reached at 360-647-8805, Ext. 5052, or evan@bbjtoday.com.

Business Briefing Sedro-Woolley hospital joins PeaceHealth United General Hospital in Sedro-Woolley officially became part of the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center on April 1. A long-term deal between PeaceHealth and United General was announced in November 2012 after approval by commissioners of Public Hospital District 304 in Skagit County. PeaceHealth will take over the leasing and operation of the Sedro-Woolley hospital, but the facility with still be owned by the Public Hospital District. It will also remain a criticalaccess hospital, according to PeaceHealth.

New restaurants moving into Bellis Fair Mall Chipotle Mexican Grill

and Buffalo Wild Wings plan to open new restaurants at Bellis Fair Mall, in tenant spaces that were once the mall’s Regal Cinemas movie theater, The Bellingham Herald reported last month. An opening date for Chipotle is not yet known. Buffalo Wild Wings expects to be open this fall. Bellis Fair completed a major renovation last year, the mall’s first large-scale remodel in a decade. Along with the new restaurants, the popular H&M retailer announced earlier this year that it will open a location in Bellis Fair this year, likely in late spring or summer.

WWU ends bottledwater sales Sales of bottled water will end at Western Washington University, starting in April. The decision follows efforts of a student-led campaign that urged the

GREEN GROUP

university to eliminate oncampus sales, citing unsustainable impacts of bottled water distribution. The move affects only singleuse bottled water varieties without flavoring, carbonation or additives. A task force of WWU students, faculty and staff is overseeing implementation of the new initiative. The task force’s efforts include exploring ways to offset lost revenue from bottled water sales, which make up nearly 10 percent of all cold beverage sales at the university, according to WWU. Over the past decades, WWU students have led several eco-friendly initiatives and programs, including an on-campus recycling center, reusable waterbottle filling stations, and the 2005 implementation of a student fee that allows the university to purchase renewable energy credits to offset electricity usage.

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State’s unemployment stays at 6.4 percent No month-to-month change was reported in Washington state’s unemployment rate in February, which was estimated at 6.4 percent, the same level from January, according to the state’s Employment Security Department. Labor economists said the steady jobless rate coupled with new job gains and an expanding labor force— they estimate Washington’s employers added 2,500 jobs in February; the labor force rose by about 10,000 over the previous month—are positive signs of growth in the state’s economy. The 6.4 percent unemployment rate, which is seasonally adjusted, is the state’s lowest since fall 2008. Economists estimated that during a one-year period ending in February, Washington added 54,400 jobs. They also revised a job gains estimate from January of this year, boosting it by 2,000 to bring the total gains for that month up to 5,800.

Rover Stay Over adds services Rover Stay Over, a Bellingham company that offers boarding and grooming services for dogs and cats, is expanding its operations with a new dogtraining service and the staff addition of certified trainer Brittany Olin. Olin, who was raised in Whatcom County, attended Bellingham Technical College and received dog-training certification through

Animal Behavior College. She has also worked as a kennel and veterinary assistant at local animal hospitals. Olin’s positive-reinforcement obedience training is offered at Rover Stay Over’s main facility, located at 6451 Hannegan Road in Lynden. Private sessions are also available for other locations, including customers’ homes, parks and other public places.

Washington among leaders in smallbusiness funding A new report from the federal government’s State Small Business Credit Initiative shows Washington placed 12th among other U.S. states and territories in a ranking of local smallbusiness funding deployed through the end of 2013. Washington deployed 72 percent, or $14.2 million, of its SSBCI allocation by the end of last year. The SSBCI was created through the Small Business Jobs Act, signed into law by President Obama in 2010. The initiative directed the U.S. Department of the Treasury to award nearly $1.5 billion to states to fund programs supporting small businesses and small manufacturers.

Around the region

Premera Blue Cross CEO to retire The CEO of Premera Blue Cross announced last month that he plans to retire this year. Gubby Barlow, who joined the insurance company in 1997, will stay

until Sept. 30. He then will continue to work through the end of the year helping in the transition with his replacement, Jeff Roe, Premera’s current president. Before becoming president, Roe led Premera’s employer and individual market segments throughout the Pacific Northwest. He joined Premera in 1996, managing the company’s communications and marketing functions and later led Premera’s Washington market business segment. Premera Blue Cross has operated in Washington since 1933 and is a not-forprofit, independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. —The (Everett) Herald Business Journal

Kmart shutters Oak Harbor store Kmart is closing its Oak Harbor location in April. The store opened in 1988. The company has two remaining locations in northwest Washington, one in Burlington, the other in Bellingham’s Sunset Square shopping center. Sears Holdings Corp., the parent company of Sears and Kmart, announced in 2011 that at least 100 stores will close due to declining sales. —The Whidbey News-Times

Arlington cup maker expands A compaNy that makes cups from recycled soda and water bottles is undergoing a $10 million factory expansion in Arlington.

BRIEFING, PAGE 23

April 2014 17

The Bellingham Business Journal

Business Toolkit

When online customers knock, is anyone there? Picture this: A potential customer hears about your product or service from their friend. They Google your business name, find your company’s website and like what they see. They click the “Contact Us” tab, add their name and email address to the form on the page and even take time to describe what they need in the comment box provided. Then they click the submit button and wait. Do you know how long it will take for that customer to hear back from your company? Do you know if the Contact Us form is even working on your website? Have you tested it lately? What if someone messages your business through social media sites like Facebook, Twitter or Google+? Do they receive a timely response or any response at all? Does your company have a policy for who handles those customer inquiries? If you answered no to any of these questions, you are missing out on sales due to lackluster online customer service, which is a waste of the marketing dollars invested in setting up and maintaining your website and social media profiles.

Serving an instant-gratification world on the Web

How do you compete with larger brands online? There are some large national brands that have invested big money in customer service so they can Patti respond quickly Rowlson when consumers knock on their On Social virtual doors (via websites and social Media & media profiles). Of Marketing course, because of the size of these corporations, they have the resources, staff and marketing budgets to deliver excellent customer experiences. Unfair as it may be, local consumers now expect a similar level of service from businesses in their communities. The challenge (and frustration) for small businesses is that it’s tough for those without a dedicated marketing person or team to respond as quickly as consumers expect.

In today’s on-demand world, consumers have caught the instant-gratification bug— Four tips for better delivery they want what they want when they want it. The good news is that there are a few simple Many expect to hear from brands within things you can do to greatly improve your hours (not days or weeks), or they move on company’s online customer service. to another business/source of information. I’ve done this myself—reaching out to 1. Test northwest Washington service providers like This may seem like a no-brainer, but test landscapers, window installers, electricians the Contact Us form on your website on a and screen printers via their websites’ contact pages. When a response was not received, I regular basis. moved on. I did not pick up the phone and call their brick and mortar location, so they 2. Educate lost a potential sale.

Set a policy for how fast your company will respond to inquiries coming through your website, and share that information on your Contact Us page so consumers know what to expect. It can be a simple statement like “XYZ Company values your time and interest in our widgets. A representative will respond to your inquiry within 24 hours, Monday through Friday. If an immediate response is needed, please contact us at 360-555-5555.”

3. Acknowledge You have to acknowledge all inquiries, even if you don’t have time to provide full details at that moment. A simple reply, saying “thank you for inquiring about our widgets. Our team will have an estimate to you by tomorrow afternoon,” goes a long way toward satisfying consumers’ desire for instant information.

4. Be Available Ramp up engagement on social media sites. Engagement (actually conversing with consumers online, not just sending out marketing messages) helps consumers feel like part of your business community. Engagement helps people feel like they can reach out to you online when they have questions or need product support.

At work, can you keep playing when the game’s not fair? As a manager, especially a manager of younger employees, one thing I encourage you to be on the lookout for are occasions that attack the confidence of the your lessexperienced people. No doubt you can remember your own baptisms by fire, when in your earlier years you may have innocently asked a question of a superior in an open meeting and was handed your head on a platter following a public flaying that left you questioning yourself, your values, the direction of the poles, etc. If you were fortunate, you had a manager who took you aside and assured you that you were fine—that what you had done hadn’t warranted the treatment you received and maybe there were better ways or times to make your thoughts or questions known in the future. If you were not so fortunate, you were met in the hall after the meeting by a coworker who cauterized your wound with

Mike Cook On Managers & Employees

Patti Rowlson is a marketing consultant and social media manager at PR Consulting, Inc. She helps Whatcom County small businesses identify, implement and consistently maintain marketing-related programs. Learn more about small-business marketing by connecting with PR Consulting on social media sites or by visiting www.pattirowlson.com.

Business Banking that Realizes Potential

a glib “glad that wasn’t me” comment. This would forever cement in your mind that you were never going to let anything close to that happen again, and you were never heard from there again, or anyplace else that had a similar look and feel. If you’ve been around for a while now, you know the drill. You know you will

COOK, PAGE 23

Follow back and engage with people who connect with your business on sites like Twitter. Woods Coffee and Jake’s Western Grill do a great job of this. If you visit either business’ Twitter page, you’ll note that the number of people following them on Twitter is very similar to the number they follow in return, and that’s a good thing. As small-business owners, we can’t possibly be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but that certainly doesn’t mean we have to wave the white flag when it comes to delivering stellar customer service online. The tips above can go a long way toward reducing the number of missed sales opportunities and improving the overall reputation of your business. How about you? Have you had great customer service experiences online with local company via their websites or social media profiles?

“When no bank wanted to look at us, Industrial Credit Union saw our business potential. Our experience with Dale has been exceptional; he is full of innovative ideas. The credit union is convenient and friendly – they always remember my name.” - George, owner of A-1 Shredding

IndustrialCU.org 1015352

(360) 734-2043

18 April 2014

The Bellingham Business Journal

Public Records Business licenses Listings, which feature both new and renewed licenses in Bellingham, include business name, licensee name and the business’ physical address. Records are obtained from the City of Bellingham. A Better Windshield, Hernandez Sabino Campos, 1204 Iowa St., Bellingham, WA 98229. A Party Affair, Karen Lee Howard, 1715 Mt. Baker Highway, Bellingham, WA 98226. Agate Bay Consulting LLC, Agate Bay Consulting LLC, 2417 N. Shore Road, Bellingham, WA 98226. AK Construction, Alex Kachinskiy, 3 Bogey Lane, Bellingham, WA 98229. AK Motorsport, AK Motorsport LLC, 5891 Laurel Ridge Way, Bellingham, WA 98226. Alliance Imaging, Alliance Healthcare Services Inc., 2930 Squalicum Parkway, Suite 201, Bellingham, WA 98225. Amy’s Hallmark Shop #624, Hallmark Retail LLC, 1 Bellis Fair Parkkway, Suite 707, Bellingham, WA 98226. Appetite Catering, Kristin S. Edwards, 2931 Meridian St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Ashlan Jean Hair Studio, Jesi Jean Stone, 202 E. Holly St. #115 #116, Bellingham, WA 98225. Auctos Inc., Auctos Inc., 1510 17th St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Bakerview-U.S. Taekwondo Academy, Peder Gilbertson, 413 W. Bakerview Road, Suite 108, Bellingham, WA 98226. Barbara’s Mobile Notary Services, Barbara D. Volkov, 6 Inlet Circle, Bellingham, WA 98229. Bellingham Girls Rock Camp, Bellingham Girls Rock Camp, 306 Flora St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Bellingham On Tap, June Hathaway, 1445 Franklin St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Bellingham Professional Painters, Julio Cesar Reyes, 4104 Kramer Lane, Bellingham, WA 98226. Bellingham Slam Basketball, Bellingham Basketball, 4083 Gloria Lane, Bellingham, WA 98226. Bellingham Trail Marathon, Bellingham Trail Running Club LLC, 3305 Allen Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225. Bikesport Bellingham , Bellingham Bike Company LLC, 2416 Meridian St., Bellingham, WA 9825. Bleedingham, Bleedingham, 3730 Canterbury Lane, Bellingham, WA 98225. Bloomens LLC, Bloomens LLC, 1941 Lake Whatcom Blvd., Bellingham, WA 98229. Bobbette L. Whetsell, Bobbette L. Whetsell, 1201 11th St., Suite 100, Bellingham, WA 98225. Busy Bee LLC, Busy Bee LLC, 3310 Alderwood Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225. C. Herkert Ltd., C. Herkert Ltd., 114 W. Magnolia St., Suite 420, Bellingham, WA 98225. Carly Rose, Carly Rose Hendricks, 4260 Cordata Parkway, Bellingham, WA 98226. Carson Birch Art Consulting, Carson Birch Art Consulting LLC, 312 Willow Court N., Bellingham, WA 98225. City Dogs Grooming, City Dogs Grooming LLC, 711 E. Holly St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Clever Fox Creative, Tiffany L. Petty, 2131 Superior St., Bellingham, WA 98229. College Pro Painters Of Bellingham, Dylan Taylor Anderson, 316 32nd St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Colors Flowerstop, Colors Flowerstop LLC, 1240 W. Bakerview Road, Bellingham, WA 98226. Convey Design, Megan Karleen Cook, 114 W Magnolia St., Suite 505, Bellingham, WA 98225. Cookies By Annie, Annie Marie Nightingale, 3618 E. Rusley Drive, Bellingham, WA 98225. Corinne Carol McMurtrey, Corinne Carol McMurtrey, 1305 Commercial St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Danielle Jean Starr, Danielle Jean Starr, 960 Harris Ave., Suite 101, Bellingham, WA 98225. David James Richards, David James Richards, 610 N. Forest St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Dingbat Alley, Dingbat Alley, 2001 Masonry Way, Suite 106, Bellingham, WA 98226. Dynamic Being, Meredith Kincaid Baker, 2221 James St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Edward Quammen Scholarship, Edward Quammen Scholarship, 613 Bayside Road, Bellingham, WA 98225. Emerald City Smoothies Bellingham, John Bigboote Inc., 1058 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham, WA 98229.

Farmed And Foraged, Jedediah Jerome Witham, 5600 Everson Goshen Road, Bellingham, WA 98226. Fishing Blues LLC, Fishing Blues LLC, 2416 Utter St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Flip, Flip Consignment LLC, 189 Telegraph Road, Bellingham, WA 98226. Focus Environmental LLC, Focus Environmental LLC, 336 Sudden Valley Drive, Bellingham, WA 98229. Fukushima Klewiada, Eric Klewiada, 51 Strawberry Point, Bellingham, WA 98229. Gather Northwest, Gather Northwest, 2916 Walnut St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Grabngo.Biz, Jon Vandewetering, 3624 W. Rusley Drive, Bellingham, WA 98225. Grant Collmann, Grant Collmann LLC, 1200 Toledo St., Bellingham, WA 98229. Green Clean Top Quality Home And Yard Maintenance, Priscilla L. Robinson, 4000 Flynn St., Bellingham, WA 98229. Gypsy Heart Treasures, Sheri Lee Pounder, 5825 Crystal Springs Lane, Bellingham, WA 98226. Hair By Melissa, Melissa Marie Martin, 725 N. State St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Helping Hands Daycare, Debra J. Townsend, 2900 Orleans St., Bellingham, WA 98226. Home For The Holidays Inc., Home For The Holidays Inc., 2572 N. Shore Road, Bellingham, WA 98226. Icebug USA, Icebug USA Inc., 1229 Cornwall Ave., Suite 212, Bellingham, WA 98225. Integral Business Development LLC, Integral Business Development LLC, 1500 Willowbrook Pl., Bellingham, WA 98229. Integris Capital LLC, Integris Capital LLC, 1305 W. Clearbrook Drive, Bellingham, WA 98229. Integrity Carpentry, Integrity Carpentry, 3311 Carrington Way, Bellingham, WA 98226. JD’s Home Maintenance, Jeffery Scott Denadel, 3009 Edens Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225. Jacob Hand Inc., Jacob Hand Inc., 2515 Queen St., Bellingham, WA 98226. JLC LLC, JLD LLC, 1513 E St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Joann Joy Latham, Joann Joy Latham, 1224 Harris Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225. Jordanielle Inc., Jordanielle Inc., 4302 Academy St., Bellingham, WA 98226. Just In Time Design, Jesse Edward Pennoyer, 960 W. Smith Road, Bellingham, WA 98226. Keith F. Solmo, Keith Frederick Solmo, 1540 Humboldt St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Larry Binggeli, Larry Binggeli, 3138 Alderwood Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225. Left Coast Developers LLC, Left Coast Developers LLC, 3015 Mossop Drive, Bellingham, WA 98229. Liquidation Auto Sales Inc., Liquidation Auto Sales Inc., 506 Ohio St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Luxury Yacht Charter Services, Luxury Yacht Charter Services LLC, 2406 Kentucky St., Bellingham, WA 98229. Marcia McBride MA LMP, Marcia Ann McBride, 1208 Dupont St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Matthew M. Goodrich, Goodrich & Associates LLC, 12 Bellwether Way, Suite 215, Bellingham, WA 98225. MCE Automotive Repair LLC, MCE Automotive Repair LLC, 1012 C St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Megan Hillman Hair & Makeup Artistry, Megan Hillman Hair & Makeup Artistry LLC, 1344 King St., Suite 102, Bellingham, WA 98229. Meridian Detail, Meridian Detail, 6010 Guide Meridian, Bellingham, WA 98226. Midsouth PM Inc., Midsouth PM Inc., 114 W. Magnolia St., Suite 411, Bellingham, WA 98225. Morgan Alexis Walker, Morgan Alexis Walker, 1305 Commercial St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Mount Vernon Beauty School Inc., Mount Vernon Beauty School Inc., 4192 Meridian St., Bellingham, WA 98226. Mt. Baker Vapor LLC, Mt. Baker Vapor LLC, 3715 Irongate Road, Bellingham, WA 98226. Muttventures, Kevin D. Enderle, 4826 Lookout Ave., Bellingham, WA 98229. Nima Design, Ashkon Monte Nima, 2211 Douglas Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225. North Shore Retreat, Don A. Gustafson, 3064 N. Shore Road, Bellingham, WA 98226. Northwest General Construction, Jimmy Enterprizes Inc., 4284 Spring Creek Lane, Bellingham, WA 98226.

O’Reilly Auto Parts #2515, O’Reilly Auto Enterprises LLC, 1929 King St., Bellingham, WA 98225. O’Reilly Auto Parts #2966, O’Reilly Auto Enterprises LLC, 4375 Meridian St., Bellingham, WA 98226. O’Reilly Auto Parts #3706, O’Reilly Auto Enterprises LLC, 4056 Meridian St., Bellingham, WA 98226. Oceanaire Enterprises LLC, Oceanaire Enterprises LLC, 562 W. Lake Samish Dr ive, Bellingham, WA 98229. Offshoots Bellingham LLC, Offshoots Bellingham LLC, 223 S. Ashley St., Bellingham, WA 98229. Onesuiteworld LLC, Onesuiteworld, LLC, 708 Poplar Drive, Bellingham, WA 98226. Owen LLC, Owen LLC, 3856 Robby Court, Bellingham, WA 98226. Panhandler, Panhandler, 1141 Grant St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Papa Green Bean LLC, Papa Green Bean LLC, 811 N. Garden St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Pedron Inc., Pedron Inc., 1445 Grant St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Penny L. Hougland, Penny L. Hougland, 115 W. Magnolia St., Suite 204, Bellingham, WA 98225. Perfectly Paired, Matt & Robin Enterprises LLC, 1200 Old Fairhaven Parkway #101, Bellingham, WA 98225. Pettit And Associates, Jacqueline Sentenne Pettit, 1453 Grant St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Piles To Files LLC, Piles To Files LLC, 116 S. 44th St., Bellingham, WA 98229. Pottery, Joan L. Mumma, 2437 E. Hemmi Road, Bellingham, WA 98226. Pritam Homes LLC, Pritam Homes LLC, 3319 Airport Drive, Bellingham, WA 98226. PRN Office Assist, Victoria Ann Nelson, 1 Valley View Circle #1953, Bellingham, WA 98229. Rashpal Kaur, Rashpal Kaur, 812 Salmonberry Lane, Bellingham, WA 98229. Reed Electric, Steve C. Reed, 3306 Whipple Court, Bellingham, WA 98226. Rommel’s Taxi LLC, Rommel’s Taxi LLC, 2430 Yew Street Road, Bellingham, WA 98229. S&S Painting, Todd Smith, 3793 Greenville Pl., Bellingham, WA 98226. Sage Remedies, Adrianna Vega, 638 Van Wyck Road, Bellingham, WA 98226. Scott Schenk Construction, Scott Schenk Construction LLC, 2287 E. Hemmi Road, Bellingham, WA 98226. Sharper Editing, Sophie Katharine Logan, 4111 Consolidation Ave., Bellingham, WA 98229. Skagit Development Group Inc., Skagit Development Group Inc., 4290 Pacific Highway, Bellingham, WA 98226. Southstone Home Inspections LLC, Southstone Home Inspections LLC, 509 Cowgill Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225. Stambaugh Designs, Stambaugh Designs, 636 Clark Road, Bellingham, WA 98225. Stone Mountain, Stone Mountain LLC, 916 Kentucky St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Subdued Excitement Ventures Fund II LLC, Subdued Excitement Ventures Fund II LLC, 412 Arbutus Pl., Bellingham, WA 98225. Subdued Excitement Ventures LLP, Subdued Excitement Ventures LLP, 230 E. Champion St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Sunrise Adornments, Alice Miles Erickson, 1523 4th St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Super Flooring Construction Inc., Super Flooring Construction Inc., 3435 Pinehurst Court, Bellingham, WA 98226. The Confluence Fly Shop, The Confluence Fly Shop And Outfitters LLC, 2620 N. Harbor Loop Drive, Bellingham, WA 98225. The Torres Coffee Company, The Torres Coffee Company LLC, 4054 Hammer Drive, Bellingham, WA 98226. The Wildgrove, Sabrina A. Zehm-Lee, 2665 Alderwood Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225. Three Leaves Counseling, Three Leaves Counseling, 1101 N. State St., Suite 201, Bellingham, WA 98225. Top Quality Painting, Michael J. Hamel, 515 N. Shore Drive, Bellingham, WA 98226. Track Equipment LLC, Track Equipment LLC, 2630 Jaeger St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Underwood Construction, Bruce Alan Underwood, 2729 Victor St., Bellingham, WA 98225.

Vital Botanics LLC, Vital Botanics LLC, 927 Samish Way, Bellingham, WA 98229. Washington Electronic Cigarette Co., Christopher Wayne Ketchens, 1 Bellis Fair Parkway, Bellingham, WA 98226. Wells Fargo Advisors LLC, Wells Fargo Advisors LLC, 23 Bellwether Way, Suite 200, Bellingham, WA 98225. West Coast Cannabis Corporation, West Coast Cannabis Corporation, 2123 King St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Whatcom Flooring Installation, Whatcom Flooring Installation, 4244 Wintergreen Circle, Bellingham, WA 98226. Wild Roots LLC, Wild Roots LLC, 4730 Spring St., Bellingham, WA 98229. Working Waterfront Coalition Of Whatcom County, Working Waterfront Coalition Of Whatcom County, 2615 S. Harbor Loop Drive, Suite 1, Bellingham, WA 98225. Z Superior Painting Inc., Z Superior Painting Inc., 1460 Birchwood Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225.

Building permits Includes commercial building activity in Bellingham with an estimated valuation listed at $10,000 or more. Records are obtained from the City of Bellingham’s Permit Center. Status updates on permits are available on the city’s website at http:// pnw.cc/sVCen. 3/17/14 to 4/1/14 ISSUED PERMITS 4050 Northwest Ave., $6,156,824 for commercial: construct 83-room, five-story wood frame addition to hotel. Tenant: Marriott Towneplace Suites. Contractor: Dawson Construction Inc. Permit No.: BLD2013-00572. 3/28/14. 1140 10th St., $3,852,600 for commercial: new fourstory, mixed-use building: South Bay Suites. Contractor: Wellman & Zuck Construction LLC. Permit No.: BLD201300557. 3/24/14. 1 Bellis Fair Parkway 202, $927,589 for tenant improvement: retail clothing store, includes new storefront. Tenant: H&M. Contractor: James N. Gray Co. Permit No.: BLD2014-00019. 3/27/14. 1 Bellis Fair Parkway 704, $170,000 for tenant improvement: alteration of existing commercial space. Tenant: Destination Maternity. Contractor: Englewood Construction Inc. Permit No.: BLD2014-00055. 3/20/14. 128 E. Holly St., $150,000 for tenant improvement: remodeling of existing space for new bank tenant. Tenant: Skagit State Bank. Contractor: TBD. Permit No.: BLD2014-00073. 3/20/14. 1907 Iowa St., $25,000 for tenant improvement: build walls in storage area to create new service area and demolish walls to expand retail space: Jack’s Bicycle Center. Contractor: Revision Construction LLC. Permit No.: BLD2014-00041. 3/21/14. 2211 Rimland Drive 300, $10,000 for tenant improvement: construct two offices within work room of third-floor office suite. Tenant: Haggen Inc. Contractor: Management Services NW Inc. Permit No.: BLD2014-00097. 3/24/14. PENDING APPLICATIONS 3004 Cinema Pl., $400,000 for tenant improvement: remodel shell space for new restaurant: Luna’s Bistro. Tenant: Jalapenos Inc. Contractor: Scoboria Construction Inc. Permit No.: BLD2014-00114. 3/19/14. 4 Bellis Fair Parkway, $350,000 for tenant improvement: renovation to provide for restaurant: Chipotle Mexican Grill. Permit No.: BLD2014-00069. 3/28/14. 2126 E. Bakerview Road, $200,000 for commercial: renovation of, and addition to, existing industrial building. Permit No.: BLD2014-00118. 3/25/14. 288 W. Kellogg Road, $109,093 for tenant improvement: remodel existing classroom to become office space; new HVAC, RTU and duct work; new partition walls. Permit No.: BLD2014-00095. 3/25/14. 2005 Division St., $100,530 for tenant improvement: interior alterations to produce and process marijuana: Trail Blazin’ Productions. Permit No.: BLD2014-00020. 3/26/14. 1115 E. Sunset Drive 100, $35,000 for commercial tenant improvement: construct consultation room and relocate waiting room to sales floor and other rearrangements and cosmetic interior upgrades. Permit No.: BLD2014-00121. 3/26/14. 3/10/14 to 3/17/14 ISSUED PERMITS

1 Bellis Fair Parkway 618, $98,000 for commercial: shell only; remodel of interior space and storefront reconfiguration. Contractor: Pearson Construction Corp. Permit No.: BLD2014-00070. 3/12/13. 11 Bellwether Way 204, $37,000 for commercial alterations: interior remodel of existing office space: Polar Tanker. Contractor: Scoboria Construction Inc. Permit No.: BLD2014-00039. 3/13/14. 119 Texas St., $13,039 for commercial: construct a self-supported roof canopy addition as part of an entrance improvement. Permit No.: BLD2014-00078. 3/13/14. PENDING APPLICATIONS 1824 Ellis St., $500,000 for commercial: new twostory addition with storage and administrative space; renovations to existing building to provide additional offices: Bellingham Food Bank. Permit No.: BLD201400028. 3/10/14. 351 York St., $282,029 for commercial: rebuild electrical substation and improve access to site: PSE. Permit No.: BLD2014-00026. 3/11/14. 516 High St. (WWU Wilson Library), $197,290 for commercial: remove and replace clay tile roof; add attic insulation. Permit No.: BLD2014-00082. 3/14/14. 288 W. Kellogg Road, $109,093 for tenant improvement: remodel of existing classroom to become office space; new HVAC RTU, duct work and new partition walls. Permit No.: BLD2014-00095. 3/12/14. 237 W. Kellogg Road, $82,344 for tenant improvement: remodel existing classroom to become office space; HVAC duct work and new partition walls. Permit No.: BLD2014-00094. 3/12/14. 4182 Cordata Parkway, $40,000 for tenant improvement: construct ADA restroom and storage room for new retail smoke shop. Applicant and contractor: Braam Construction Inc. Permit No.: BLD2014-00091. 3/11/14. 715 W. Orchard Drive 3, $35,000 for tenant improvement: remodel interior to create clean room and packing area. Contractor: Scoboria Construction Inc. Permit No.: BLD2014-00103. 3/13/14. 516 High St. (WWU Edens Hall North), $10,000 for commercial alteration: modify doors and frames to accommodate work within electrical room 7A. Permit No.: BLD2014-00102. 3/13/14. 2211 Rimland Drive 300, $10,000 for tenant improvement: construct two offices within work room of third-floor office suite. Tenant: Haggen Inc. Contractor: Management Services NW Inc. Permit No.: BLD2014-00097. 3/12/14. 2/24/14 to 3/10/14 ISSUED PERMITS 516 High St. (WWU Nash Hall), $4.2 million for commercial alterations: renovations/upgrades to existing college dormitory. Contractor: CDK Construction Services. Permit No.: BLD2013-00404. 3/5/14. 4-8 Bellis Fair Parkway, $1.3 million for commercial: demolish movie theater and construct three new tenant shells. Contractor: S.D. Decon Corp. of Washington. Permit No.: BLD2013-00550. 3/3/14. 2200 Iowa St., $720,000 for commercial: addition to automotive showroom; includes new service reception area and re-grading of parking lot: Roger Jobs. Contractor: Dawson Construction Inc. Permit No.: BLD2013-00251. 2/26/14. 2901 Squalicum Parkway (CS first floor), $400,000 for commercial tenant improvement: renovation of existing scan suite No. 1 and addition of 175-square-foot UPS enclosure. Contractor: The Franklin Corp. Permit No.: BLD2013-00561. 3/7/14. 155 E. Kellogg Road, $185,000 for commercial addition and alterations: construct addition between two existing senior care facilities and combine the two into one building: Highgate House. Contractor: Wiebe LLC. Permit No.: BLD2013-00344. 2/28/14. 3233 Northwest Ave., $120,000 for commercial: interior remodel of office space for call center and new partitions in the open office area. Contractor: Pearson Construction Corp. Permit No.: BLD2014-00051. 2/25/14. 1145 N. State St., $80,000 for tenant improvement: construct restaurant in newly renovated shell space: Rock & Rye Oyster House. Contractor: Bay City Construction. Permit No.: BLD2014-00014. 2/28/14. 909 Squalicum Way 108, $25,000 for tenant improvement: construct restrooms, changing rooms and stairway to mezzanine for athletic training studio. Permit No.: BLD2014-00058. 2/27/14. 1200 Lincoln St., $20,000 for commercial alteration:

recOrds, pAge 19

April 2014 19

The Bellingham Business Journal

records, 18 retrofit restrooms of clubhouse to provide improved accessibility. Contractor: MC Smith Construction Inc. Permit No.: BLD2014-00071. 3/6/14. 2110 Iron St., $20,000 for commercial repair: replace damaged interior and exterior walls and finishes to match existing; no change in configuration; emergency repair. Contractor: Moceri Construction Inc. Permit No.: BLD2014-00068. 2/25/14. 365 Harris Ave., $18,000 to remove existing prefab pursers booth and install new prefab booth at ferry terminal. Permit No.: BLD2014-00062. 3/5/14. PendIng APPlIcAtIonS 1611 e. Maple St., $4,484,878 for new 49-unit multifamily building. Permit No.: BLD2013-00594. 3/5/14. 241 W. Kellogg Road, $3,615,544 for partial demolition, renovation and addition to Whatcom Community College gym (Pavilion); removal of thru traffic from Kellogg Road to parking lot and installation of circular drop-off. Permit No.: BLD2014-00008. 3/6/14. 114 grand Ave., $1.2 million for commercial: second floor and roof demolition; new apartments on second floor and new roof install and other second-floor upgrades. Contractor: Pearson Construction Corp. BLD2014-00038. 3/6/14. 1251 lincoln St., $832,276 for new 7,000-squarefoot commercial building. Permit No.: BLD2013-00599. 3/5/14. 1611-1617 e. Maple St., $500,000 for new retaining wall along freeway for multifamily development. Permit No.: BLD2013-00598. 3/5/14. 516 High St. (WWU Buchanan towers), $450,000 for commercial: replace and relocate mechanical equipment to improve maintenance access; provide enlarged doorways to improve mechanical access. Permit No.: BLD2014-00080. 3/4/14. 516 High St. (WWU Wilson library), $197,290 for commercial: remove and replace clay tile roof; add attic insulation. Permit No.: BLD2014-00082. 3/5/14. 1 Bellis Fair Parkway 704, $170,000 for tenant improvement: alteration of existing commercial space. Tenant: Destination Maternity. Contractor: Englewood Construction Inc. Permit No.: BLD2014-00055. 3/5/14. 516 High St. (WWU Fine Arts building), $115,600 for commercial: replace flat roof at Western Gallery. Permit No.: BLD2014-00084. 3/5/14. 2005 division St., $100,530 for tenant improvement: interior alterations to produce and process marijuana: Trail Blazin’ Productions. Permit No.: BLD2014-00020. 3/7/14. 1907 Iowa St., $25,000 for tenant improvement: build walls in storage area to create new service area and demolish walls to expand retail space: Jack’s Bicycle Center. Permit No.: BLD2014-00041. 3/5/14.

119 texas St., $13,039 for commercial: new porch enclosure at rear entrance to church. Permit No.: BLD2014-00078. 3/3/14. 516 High St. (WWU Parks Hall), $12,110 for commercial: replace flat roof at north entry. Permit No.: BLD2014-00083. 3/5/14.

Liquor Licenses Records include license activity in Whatcom County. They are obtained from the Washington State Liquor Control Board, online at www.liq.wa.gov. 3/5/14 to 3/19/14 neW lIcenSe APPlIcAtIonS none reported. Recently APPRoved lIcenSeS Bellingham Bells Baseball club, at 1220 Orleans St., Bellingham, WA 98229, received approval for changes (added fees) to an existing license to sell alcohol in a sports entertainment facility. License No.: 083343. 3/10/14. Sumas liquor & Wine, at 444 Cherry St., Sumas, WA 98295, received approval for changes to an existing license to be a direct-shipment receiver (in/out of WA). License No.: 087817. 3/7/14. Peace Arch city cafe, at 321 H St., Blaine, WA 98230, received approval for a new license to sell beer/wine in a restaurant. License No.: 414219. 3/6/14. dIScontInUed lIcenSeS Basil, at 420 Cherry St., Sumas, WA 98295, had a license to be a direct-shipment received (in WA only) discontinued. License No.: 363660. 3/13/14. guido’s Italian cuisine Steakhouse & Pizzeria, at 5611 3rd Ave., Ferndale, WA 98248, had a license to be a direct-shipment receiver (in/out of WA) discontinued. License No.: 359700. 3/6/14. caffe capanna, at 1345 Gulf Road, Point Roberts, WA 98281, had a license to sell beer/wine/spirits in a restaurant service bar discontinued. License No.: 088396. 3/5/14. Stage Right design/Uniquely yours Baskets, at 31 North Point Drive, Bellingham, WA 98229, had a license to be a direct-shipment receiver (in WA only) discontinued. License No.: 408551. 3/5/14. Mexico tipico, at 111 Nooksack Ave., Nooksack, WA 98247, had a license to sell beer/wine/spirits in a restaurant service bar discontinued. License No.: 404016. 3/5/14. Zio Promo, at 120 Front St., Sumas, WA 98295, had a license to sell beer/wine in a restaurant discontinued. License No.: 077818. 3/5/14. 2/19/14 to 3/5/14 neW lIcenSe APPlIcAtIonS Portal Way Station, MSJM Enterprises Inc.; Lakhwinder S. Malhi and Rajvinder Kaur Malhi applied for a new license to sell beer/wine is a restaurant and for

off-premises consumption at 6000 Portal Way, Ferndale, WA 98248. License No.: 350284. 2/25/14. Recently APPRoved lIcenSeS Artisan Wine gallery, at 2072 Granger Way, Lummi Island, WA 98262, received approval for changes to an existing license to be a direct shipment receiver (in/out of WA). License No.: 086642. 3/4/14. Bellewood distilling, at 6140 Guide Meridian Road, Lynden, WA 98264, received approval for changes to an existing license to operated at craft distillery. License No.: 408920. 2/27/14. Aslan Brewing company, at 1330 N. Forest St., Bellingham, WA 98225, received approval for a new license to operate a microbrewery. License No.: 411480. 2/21/14. Albertson’s #416, at 1650 Birchwood Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225, received approval for changes to an existing license allowing spirits sampling. License No.: 351172. 2/20/14. open Kitchen, at 1330 N.State St., Bellingham, WA 98225, received approval for a new license to be a direct shipment receiver (in WA only). License No.: 411359. 2/20/14. dIScontInUed lIcenSeS Bobby’s dry dock, at 7876 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine, WA 98230, had a license to sell beer/wine/spirits in a restaurant lounge discontinued. License No.: 358634. 2/21/14.

Parkway chevron llc, $14,862.73, 2140301346, 3/17/14. Andrew P. garcia, $52,917.24, 2140300721, 3/10/14. James S. Hagen, $27,258.49, 2140300720, 3/10/14. James S. Hagen and carol J. Hagen, $14,760.09, 2140300719, 3/10/14. Rutledge embroidery corp., $11,575.56, 2140400075, 3/3/14. Keldon vernon Rush, $139,965.67, 2140300070, 3/3/14. Joshua H. griesse, $11,300.31, 2140400068, 3/3/14. Wildwest express Inc., $94,141.67, 2140300067, 3/3/14. chris J. Jacobsen, $350,252.82, 214030066, 3/3/14. Keith R. olsen, $51,344.11, 2140201276, 2/18/14. Rick W. Peterson, $114,096.73, 2140201269, 2/18/14. Merle A. endersby, $33,830.24, 2140201268, 2/18/14. greg Flint and Mary J. Flint, $52,357.68, 2140201267, 2/18/14. Kerry l. Whitworth and Joyce c. Whitworth, $11,877.95, 2140201266, 2/18/14.

Bankruptcies

Robert opsvig and Myla opsvig, $7,119.30, 2140301952, 3/24/14. crazy Bob’s llc, $15,541.01, 2140301951, 3/24/14. lynn R. vandermeulen, $30,942.38, 2140301950, 3/24/14. dirk t. vandermeulen and lynn R. vandermeulen, $63,694.25, 2140301949, 3/24/14. dirk t. vandermeulen, $358,114.12, 2140301948, 3/24/14. dun-Rite trust, $28,640.66, 2140301938, 3/24/14. dun-Rite trust, $139,036.06, 2140301937, 3/24/14. dun-Rite trust, $55,366.24, 2140301936, 3/24/14. dun-Rite trust, $401,624.74, 2140301935, 3/24/14. dun-Rite trust, $262,199.78, 2140301934, 3/24/14. Jones & Jones llc, $17,190.10, 2140300724, 3/10/14. James d. Wiedman, $93,650.30, 2140300723, 3/10/14. Michael M. James, $17,065.92, 2140300722, 3/10/14. Angela M. Harkness, $16,242.10, 2140300074, 3/3/14. excel Physical therapy Inc., $15,299.03, 2140300073, 3/3/14. Ronald Barnett, $10,878.45, 2140300072, 3/3/14.

No business bankruptcies from Whatcom County were reported last month.

FederaL tax Liens Tax liens of $5,000 or more issued by the Internal Revenue Service. Listings include taxpayer name(s), lien amount, document number and filing date. Records are obtained locally from the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office. Rick R. Mccauley, $54,615.85, 2140301946, 3/24/14. Ahmet Artuner, $36,835.95, 2140301945, 3/24/14. Roger A. Myklebust and Rebecca M. Bourd, $147,433.31, 2140301944, 3/24/14. Wildwest express Inc., $11,395.47, 2140301943, 3/24/14. c&K Plastics llc, $483,083.42, 2140301355, 3/17/14. Antonio Almanza, $22,312.94, 2140301354, 3/17/14. Redhaven Inc., $5,278.05, 2140301353, 3/17/14. left coast enterprises Inc., La Fiamma, $21,955.74, 2140301352, 3/17/14. left coast enterprises Inc., La Fiamma, $110,202.69, 2140301348, 3/17/14. curtis c. cook, $68,000.98, 2140301347, 3/17/14.

reLeases oF FederaL tax Liens

Felix Solomon, $6,547.35, 2140300071, 3/3/14. downright enterprises llc, Bistro Zazou, $5,237.35, 2140201903, 2/25/14. Mt. Baker lanes Inc., $51,575.78, 2140201900, 2/25/14. dennis A. Higgins, $33,959.11, 2140201899, 2/25/14. candy l. Jefferson, $6,504.87, 2140201898, 2/25/14.

state tax judgments Tax judgments of $5,000 or more issued by Washington state government agencies and filed locally in Whatcom County Superior Court. Listings include taxpayer name(s), judgment amount, the state agency filing the judgment, originating case number and filing date. Judgments can later be lifted or paid; listings are only current as of their filing dates. Records are obtained from the Whatcom County Superior Court Clerk’s Office. copper Hog llc, $29,977.45, Revenue, 14-2-007350, 3/26/14. HBK llc, $32,980.19, Revenue, 14-2-00736-8, 3/26/14. Heritage Building company llc, $33,431.34, Revenue, 14-2-00738-4, 3/26/14. Jason F. lind and John R. lind, $17,667.09, Revenue, 14-2-00739-2, 3/26/14. Rutledge embroidery corp., $12,593.43, Revenue, 14-2-00740-6, 3/26/14. Brandon I. Brodie, $5,042.74, L&I, 14-2-00724-4, 3/25/14. diller construction enterprises, $8,111.46, Revenue, 14-2-00694-9, 3/19/14. green Frog cafe llc, $15,119.07, Revenue, 14-200681-7, 3/17/14. Pickard & Sons Plumbing, $10,523.83, Revenue, 14-2-00682-5, 3/17/14. Jason H. Rowe and elizabeth A. Rowe, $8,735.69, Revenue, 14-2-00683-3, 3/17/14. B n natural Stone llc, $5,204.81, L&I, 14-2-006248, 3/14/14. via Birch Bay cafe & Bistro, $18,460.61, Revenue. 14-2-00625-6, 3/14/14. via Birch Bay cafe & Bistro co., $6,585.59, L&I, 14-2-00598-5, 3/11/14. dykstra construction Services, $9,355.71, L&I, 14-2-00543-8, 2/28/14. Heritage Building company llc, $31,899.20, L&I, 14-2-00527-6, 2/26/14.

View more public records online at BBJToday.com.

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20 April 2014

The Bellingham Business Journal

NONPROFITS

The impact of agency mergers and acquisitions BY RACHEL MYERS Courtesy to The Bellingham Business Journal Mergers and acquisitions are becoming much more prevalent as businesses do everything they can to be effective and efficient in their work. This is a trend happening not only in the business sector, but in the nonprofit sector, as well. A recent article by The Bridgespan Group, a nonprofit advisor for missiondriven organizations and philanthropists, framed it this

way: The question facing an recently became a program of The other partner in this cessful, when asked what fac- Bellingham would be open organization should not be, YWCA Bellingham. story, YWCA Bellingham, tors contributed most to their to doing it again with anoth“Do we or do we not pursue While this new alliance was doing an evaluation of success, Kilty said: “I would er organization if the right mergers and acquisitions?” was announced on Oct. 1, its own as a part of its stra- point to mission compatibil- opportunity was presented. But rather, “How do we best the story actually began tegic planning process with ity, board and staff readiness, Kilty said she believes fulfill our organization’s a few years earlier as the new CEO Cheri Kilty. a solutions oriented approach, in the power of mergers mission and strategy to be Womencare Shelter’s board After learning that the strong community support— and acquisitions because effective, and are mergers and of directors began discussing Womencare Shelter’s board including funding support “resources are shrinking, and acquisitions a better option options for strategic growth had issued a request for pro- from United Way, Whatcom we need to share when we can. than other alternatives?” and evaluating the commu- posals regarding a merger, the Community Foundation and There are a lot of needs that Our community is fortu- nity needs, along with current YWCA decided to submit a the Jerry Walton Founda- are not being met in our comnate to have a recent exam- services for women and chil- proposal, and ultimately they tion—and a well thought out munity, and there are a lot of ple of how things can go dren impacted by domestic were chosen through this roadmap as the key things like-minded organizations very right in the process of violence. These discussions competitive process. that helped us to be success- that value empowerment for an acquisition between two led to them to explore the While there is no magic ful.” families.” important community orga- possibility of a merger with ingredient that will make This process was so sucNONPROFITS, PAGE 23 nizations. Womencare Shelter another organization. every merger process successful that the YWCA of

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Nonprofit Notes Whatcom WiB seeks applicants for new scholarship money Whatcom Women in Business is accepting applications for up to $20,000 in scholarships to local women seeking to further their education. Applications can be found online at www.wwib.org. Submission deadline is Thursday, May 1. The nonprofit organization regularly gives out scholarship money, with award selections based on applicants’ professional goals, GPA, personal achievements, community service, extracurricular activities and financial need, and interview skills. Last year, Whatcom Women in Business awarded $24,000 in scholarship money to local women, according to the organization.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County hosting auction The Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County will host its 35th annual KidsFest Auction at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, April 25, at the nonprofit’s office at 1715 Kentucky St. in Bellingham. The fundraising dinner will include live and silent auctions, raffles and a dessert dash. Proceeds benefit the 3,500 youth served by the organization each year. Tickets cost $65 each until March 25, and $75 afterward. VIP whiskey-tasting tickets are available for an extra $45. More information is available at www.whatcomclubs.org.

Dirty Dan Day in Fairhaven, April 27

be sold for $5 each. Anyone with questions, including inquiries about prepaid or bulk sales, can leave a message for Elizabeth at 360-714-8156.

The Historic Fairhaven Association will host the 12th annual Dirty Dan Day event in Bellingham’s Fairhaven Disrict on Sunday, April 27. Events include the Dirty United Way of Dan Rowing Race, which Whatcom County starts at 10 a.m. at Boulevard honors top donors Park. The festivities will then United Way of Whatcom move to the Fairhaven Village Green for a mural dedication County honored several local at 10:30 a.m. There will also businesses, nonprofits and be a donut-hole eating con- individuals for their 2013 test, and a beer garden open fundraising campaigns and community contributions. from noon to 5 p.m. The Bellingham-based Dirty Dan sponsors include Avenue Bread, Vis organization gave “Super Star” Seafoods and Bornstein Sea- awards to the three largest campaigns, run by the BP foods. Cherry Point Refinery, the Kiwanis Club hosting Phillips 66 Ferndale Refinery, and the PeaceHealth St. auction, compostJoseph Medical Center, dursale benefits ing a March 13 event in the The Kiwanis Club of Event Center at Silver Reef Bellingham will present its Casino, in Ferndale. Susan Arrigoni of GeoEnannual theatre night and fundraising auction on Thursday, gineers won the Campaign April 10, at the Bellingham Coordinator of the Year Theatre Guild at 1600 H St. award. Arrigonia attained a 100 percent campaign particiDoors open at 6:45 p.m. The event will include a pation rate at her company silent auction, wine, hors last year, according to United d’oeuvres and a production Way. The Whatcom Educational of “Women of Lockerbie,” Tickets cost $20 per person. Credit Union received the They can be purchased at Community Partner award. United Way also awarded the door or by calling in 360U.S. Bank with its Joseph and 714-8156 in advance. The Kiwanis Club will also Anne McClain Award, which join students at Sehome High recognizes companies with School to sell 40-pound bags exceptional levels of fundof mushroom compost from raising support, according 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Satur- to the nonprofit. The award day, April 19, in the high is considered among the most school’s parking lot at 2700 prestigious to be given annually by the organization. Bill McDonald Parkway. View the full list of winners Sales will support local youth programs, the Sehome online at pnw.cc/vbPgl. Boys Track Team, the Sehome Key Club and the Sehome Leadership Club. Bags will

April 2014 21

The Bellingham Business Journal

People On The Move Arts and culture Steve Kimberley and Teresa Thornberg have joined the board of directors at the Mount Baker Theatre, in Bellingham. Their three-year terms began March 1. Kimberley, now retired, practiced pediatric dentistry in Bellingham from 1981 to 2013. Thornberg is an ophthalmologist, specializing in cornea and external disease, at Bellingham Bay Ophthalmology.

Energy Amanda Brock has been hired as the new marketing director at Western Solar Inc., in Bellingham. She will manage the company’s advertising and marketing efforts. Brock was previously the marketing and events coordinator for The Unity Group, now HUB Northwest International, in Bellingham. Brock graduated from Amanda Brock the University of North Florida with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. Her background experience ranges from marketing and corporate events to TV production. She has lived in Whatcom County for six years.

Government

AP and Certified Sustainable Building Advisor. tors of the nonprofit TechShe has been the green building and smart nology Alliance Group for growth program manager at the nonprofit Northwest Washington, or Health care, fitness and wellness Sustainable Connections in Bellingham for TAG. nearly two years, and also previously served Pemberton has served on Dr. Jason Lichtenberger, director of the TAG’s board before. He also Hecht Aesthetic Center, has been named on the organization’s board of directors. recently served on the orgaLathrop plans to continue her work with vice chief of surgery at the PeaceHealth St. Sustainable Connections as she takes over nization’s events committee. Joseph Medical Center in Allen Pemberton at the NWAIA, where she will coordinate He has owned PemberBellingham. ton Consulting, a BellingHe began a two-year new outreach and education programs for ham-based management consulting firm, track in the position in Feb- architects and the general public. since 1985. ruary, after his recruitment Katie Berry has been hired as the events by Dr. Michelle Sohn, the Susie Purves has been named executive hospital’s newly appointed and communications coordinator for the Technology Alliance Group for Northwest director at the Pickford Film Center, located chief of surgery. Lichtenberger also Washington, or TAG, a nonprofit that rep- in downtown Bellingham. Dr. Jason Purves joins the nonprofit film center after continues to manage his resents and advocates for Whatcom County’s Lichtenberger having served as executive director of Seattle’s responsibilities at the technology industry. Berry will be manage TAG events, includ- Spectrum Dance Theater since 2010. She also Hecht Aesthetic Center, a facial plastic and cosmetic surgery facility ing the organization’s monthly Speaker Series, previously held the position of managing in Bellingham. The doctor is the city’s only the Bellingham TechExpo + Job Fair on April director for the Northwest Film Forum. board-certified facial plastic surgeon, accord- 25, Tech Stomp in September and the Tech Awards in December. She will also be in charge Celina Tate has been hired as a media ing to a news release. of TAG member and media communications. specialist at Appliance Depot in Bellingham. Lichtenberger has also been appointed Berry graduated from Western Washington Tate is a native of Vancouver Island and to serve a three-year term on the board of directors for the Mount Baker Chapter of the University in March 2013, earning a bach- moved to Bellingham in 2006. She holds a elor’s degree in communication and a minor bachelor’s degree in communication design American Red Cross in event planning. While at WWU, Berry from Emily Carr University. contributed to event-planning activities with Tate has 10 years of experience working in Patty Vezzetti and Cindy Gabriel have local organizations such as Kulshan Commu- the marketing and design industry, including joined Joy of Pilates studio in Bellingham. Both instructors will teach weekly Pilates nity Land Trust and Bellingham Sister Cities time spent running her own freelance busiAssociation. She has also volunteered with the ness, Fledgling Design. classes and personal-training sessions. Appliance Depot is a project of ReUse Vezzetti has been a certified group fitness Bellingham YWCA, and served on several of the organization’s committees. Works, a nonprofit organization that supports instructor for more than 25 years and a Pilates worker training, job creation and business instructor for 10 years. In addition to her Allen Pemberton, principal of Pemberton development opportunities for low-income Pilates instruction, she is the gym manager at Consulting LLC, has joined the board of direc- residents. Whatcom Physical Therapy in Blaine. Gabriel has been a certified Stott Pilates instructor since 2004. She specializes in private classes, one-on-one evaluations and programming. She also previously ran the Active Life Pilates Studio in Anacortes. University of Iowa and the Colorado School of Mines. He joined WCOG in 2007.

The Whatcom Council of Governments, a regional council that coordinates transportation planning and other initiatives, has made several staff promotions. Ron Cubellis has been promoted to deputy executive director and chief financial officer. He is a certified public accountant in Washington and has attained the nationallyrecognized Certified Government Finance Manager designation. Cubellis is a graduate Leisure and hospitality of Western Washington University and has Chris Simpson has been named direcbeen a member of WCOG’s staff since 1995. tor of sales at The Chrysalis Inn & Spa in Hugh Conroy has been promoted to direc- Bellingham. tor of planning. Conroy manages WCOG’s In her new position, Simpson will manmetropolitan and regional transportation age corporate and group room accounts, as planning program and the International well as meetings and advertising sales for Mobility and Trade Corridor Program. He the Chrysalis. holds a master’s degree from Carnegie MelSimpson, who is originally from Montana lon University and has been with WCOG but has lived in Whatcom County for more since 1997. than 20 years, has a background in sales, marSusan Horst has been promoted to director keting and business development. of mobility programs. She manages the WhatShe most recently served as the resource com Smart Trips program, which works with development director at Habitat for Humanity individuals, schools and businesses through- in Whatcom County. out Whatcom County to facilitate more trips by walking, bicycling, sharing rides and riding Nonprofits the bus. Horst holds a master’s degree from The Downtown Bellingham Partnership the University of Michigan and has been with has added three new members to its board WCOG since 1996. of directors, and has also hired Kyle Fuller Leslye O’Shaughnessy has been promoted as its new director of marketing. to manager of administration, responsible for Mimi Osterdahl, Alex Wiley and Olivhuman resources, employee benefits, accounts ia Burkland join the organization’s board, payable and other administrative functions. according to a press release from the PartO’Shaughnessy also serves as clerk to the full nership. council, the executive board and the Whatcom Fuller will oversee all marketing efforts for Transportation Policy Board. She is a graduate the organization, including member outreach of Cascade Business College and Bellingham and social media. She has background experiTechnical College, and is the longest-serving ence in event marketing, targeted marketing member of WCOG’s staff, having joined in campaigns and strategic planning, as well as 1989. other areas. Andrés Gomez has been promoted to principal planner. He has direct responsibility Rose Lathrop has been named executive for WCOG’s regional travel-demand model, director of the Northwest American Institute serves as coordinator of the Transportation of Architects. Technical Advisory Group, and is lead planner Lathrop is a graduate of Western Washfor various other elements of the metropolitan ington University’s Huxley College of the and regional transportation planning proEnvironment, with a degree in urban planning gram. Gomez holds master’s degrees from the and environmental policy, as well as a LEED

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22 April 2014

The Bellingham Business Journal

OSO, FrOm 5

Property owners whose land was damaged or destroyed by the mudslide can apply to the Snohomish County Assessor to reduce the taxable value of their land. Qualified property owners will have their 2014 property taxes reduced on the value lost as result of the mudslide. People also can apply for unemployment benefits if they’ve been affected by the disaster. The Employment Security Department has created a webpage with information for victims. After the mudslide, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner posted a blog item about landslide insurance on its website. It has created a separate page to answer people’s questions. “We just figured right away that people might have questions about it,” Valandra said. “They always do after a big flood or an earthquake or a big winter storm, those types of events.” So far, they haven’t received many phone calls as people are dealing with the devastation. Valandra said that flood insurance might include protection against a landslide. But it really depends on how the policy is written. “It’s unfortunate that that’s the way it is, but that’s just typically how it works out,” Valandra said.

anniversary of the Whidbey Island landslide was Thursday, March 27. It costs about $1,000 a year for a home valued at $300,000. That and a standard policy are less than what most people pay to insure two cars, he said. Many people assume that the Federal Emergency Management Agency will cover them in a disaster. But he said that FEMA typically only offers low-interest loans that need to be repaid. That process hasn’t been approved, said Marybeth O’Leary, a FEMA external affairs officer, who has set up shop in Darrington. Gov. Jay Inslee has requested — and President Barack Obama has granted — an emergency declaration, which helps with immediate relief efforts. To get federal financial aid, the state needs to ask for and receive what is called a “major federal declaration,” O’Leary said. “The governor of the state has to decide that the level of need is beyond what the state Flattened trees in the aftermath of the Oso mudslide in March. PHoto courtesy of tHe wasHington can provide then at that point they ask for state dePartment of transPortation assistance,” O’Leary said. Then the president would need to agree. to help to rebuild roads, bridges and other for whatever reason, the insurance doesn’t It’s an administrative decision with the rules infrastructure, and individual assistance for provide relief, there would be eligibility from set up by Congress. FEMA.” property owners. If that happens, aid can come in two parts “If a person has insurance, they should The state is developing its request through — assistance for the state and local agencies always pursue that first,” O’Leary said. “If, its Emergency Management Department.

WCC, FrOm 8

The center was funded through a unique scheme where a consortium of private developers constructed the building, then visible to students. leased it to the college through its nonprofMary Vermillion, WCC’s public inforit fundraising arm, the WCC Foundation. mation officer, said the building’s design Last spring, the school also opened its will feature an open floor plan with lots of Auxiliary Services Building, which contains room for individual and group study nooks. the campus’ facilities department, as well as The open design is meant to encourage the copy, print and mail centers. That facilimpromptu and informal meetups between ity was built using money from the college’s students, faculty and staff, she said. own reserves, Langstraat said. Construction is expected to begin in fall The building recently earned a Leader2015, with the project’s bidding process ship in Energy and Environmental Design opening in the summer of that year, VerSilver Certification from the U.S. Green million said. The Learning Commons will Building Council. All new buildings conbe installed on an empty plot of collegestructed at the college will be designed to owned land on West Kellogg Road, just meet LEED standards. east of Kulshan Hall, which WCC opened This summer, the college plans to begin a in 2004. major renovation of its Pavilion, which will The facility’s development cost is estifeature the addition of a second floor and mated at $31.6 million, according to the a total of 22,700 square feet of new space college. It will be funded by money from for a fitness center, classrooms for physithe state Legislature. cal education classes and additional locker New expansion at WCC is driven by rooms. increased enrollment over the past several Plans are also in development to renoyears, Vermillion said, as well as a need for vate Baker Hall, expanding lab and classmore specialized classrooms and facilities. room space for the college’s computer The growing student population means science and cybersecurity programs, Vermore room is also needed for on-campus million said. study spaces. The Learning Commons will be the colThe college’s 72-acre campus serves lege’s first facility built using state money nearly 11,000 students, with the majority since Kulshan Hall opened in 2004. But earning transfer degrees to four-year uniconsidering deficits and the budget-wranversities. gling difficulty Olympia lawmakers find To address the needs, college leaders are themselves revisiting over and over again, in the process of developing a new instirelying on money from the state presents tutional master plan. Work began in 2012, some uncertainty. led by principals from Schreiber Starling & While the project’s budget has already Lane Architects of Seattle. been trimmed by more than $300,000, The plan, which Vermillion said is curLangstraat said college administrators are rently in a draft state, will guide future “cautiously optimistic” that the proposal will capital improvements to the school’s buildnot see additional cuts. ings and infrastructure. The Learning Still, administrators are lobbying state Commons will be a centerpiece of the new lawmakers to ensure funding stays in place, strategic-planning effort. he said. As future plans develop, several new “All signs look good at this point for the facilities have recently opened on or near building for the 2015-2017 biennium.” campus. Langstraat said. “[Lawmakers] acknowlA new Health Professions Education edge the importance of this project.” Center opened last fall, which added more than 20,000 square feet of classrooms and labs for the school’s health care programs.

WWU, FrOm 8

Jim Davis is the editor of the Herald Business Journal in everett, wash., a partner publication of the Bellingham Business Journal. “We’ve got faculty and staff in Everett attached to those FTEs,” she said. “If the money isn’t tied to our programs there will be no stability for the programs.” The University of Washington’s Bothell campus, under a 2010 law, is allotted 25 FTEs for a bachelor of science in nursing program at the center. The UW wants WSU to put in writing its commitment to continue that program. “WSU has told us they intend for our program to continue for now. The only question in our mind is what is the problem with putting it in writing,” said Margaret Shepherd, director of state relations for the university. Shepherd made clear no one is threatening to leave over this. “We want to stay. We want to stay for a long time,” she said. “We would just like better assurances for the long run. We want to ensure in the transition that it is made very clear.” Central Washington University once wanted lawmakers to intercede, but now is comfortable with Floyd’s pledge for continuity. “All is well,” Linda Schactler, Central’s director of public affairs, wrote in an email last month. Dunshee, one of the forces behind the 2011 law putting WSU in control of the center, remains optimistic that the tensions won’t lead to defections. “I hope not. I think it goes forward. These are just the old feudal wars, and it is sad,” he said. “I think they should all sit down, shake hands, have a beer and write up an agreement between themselves that they are going to play nice for awhile,” he said.

on those 310 FTEs and the state funds tied to them. Theoretically WSU could, over time, try to horde them for its own programs. WSU President Elson Floyd said Friday, March 21, the university remains “deeply committed to the relationships” and wants to continue existing programs. No changes are planned, and tensions will subside as the transition proceeds, he said. “I don’t see this as a crisis,” he said. “I see it as part of the growing process associated with the new relationship. It’ll pass and we’ll continue to work closely with the institutional partners.” Everett Community College, which has been in charge of the center since 2005, develops written agreements with each center partner that spells out the programs to be offered, the number of FTEs to be allotted and the state funds to be paid out to cover costs. Now WSU is in the process of negotiating them, said Paul Pitre, dean of WSU North Puget Sound, which is the new name for the center. “We want to make sure everything is seamless for our partners,” he said. Western Washington and UW officials don’t quite see it the same way and are still pushing for a mutually agreed-upon solution in writing. Western, the largest provider of instruction through the center and accounting for roughly 200 FTEs and $1.13 million of the state funds, is most concerned. “Our goal is to be (in Everett) permanently.” said Sherry Burkey, Western’s associate vice president for university relations and director Jerry Cornfield is a staff writer for the daily Herald in everett, wash., a partner publication of the Bellingham of government relations. Business Journal.

Get your daily business news online at BBJToday.com.

April 2014 23

The Bellingham Business Journal

COOK, FrOm 17

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survive, and you know there will always be another day. The point is not so much to avoid the impact of life in the workplace as it is to develop the ability to choose your points of high impact and recover quickly. But not so for your younger employees. As an object lesson, let me present a situation still talked about by many sports fans. In baseball, there are two types of actors on the field at all times: those who play the game, and those who officiate the games. Theirs is an uneasy interdependency made necessary by the subjective nature of many of the transactions. On June 2, 2010, the fans in Detroit’s Comerica Park were on the verge of being treated to one of the rarest events in all of sports: the pitching of a perfect game (something that has occurred only 18 times since 1900, out of something like half a million games played in that period). Unfortunately, the gods of baseball had a weird sense of fate. On a play that would have been the last of the game, a veteran umpire made an erroneous call on a fairly routine play, costing the pitcher, the players and the fans the experience of a lifetime. Almost everyone at Comerica that evening could readily see the error of the call made by umpire Jim Joyce. The fans were stunned, the Detroit players were furious, the manager, Jim Leyland, offered strenuous protest, but to no avail. Amazingly, the pitcher, Armando Galarraga, calmly returned to the mound, faced the next batter, got him out and completed a one-hit game for the win. Following the game, a chagrined Joyce faced the press, admitted his mistake and apologized in person to Galarraga. The next day, to no one’s surprise, there was an appeal to the Major League Baseball commissioner, Bud Selig, to reverse the call and award the perfect game. To his credit, Selig was true to the game

and declined to reverse the call. Just like in any workplace, the two protagonists in this drama returned to work the following day. In a rare and inspirational gesture, Galarraga met Joyce at home plate with the daily lineup card (a task normally completed by the team’s manager), gave him a pat on the back and a hug and assured him that he forgave the mistake. He affirmed his confidence in Joyce’s ability to effectively call the balls and strikes that day. Remarkable and rare, a story worth repeating, and one I encourage you to share with your younger employees. No matter what game you are playing, there will always be bad calls—and the opportunity to play again soon. In any interdependency, whether it is a marriage or a relationship between coworkers or business partners, there is room for disappointment. At times we will let each other down. These are the moments that define relationships. These are the moments that define careers. When they occur, will we withdraw from the field never to risk again, or will we return to play knowing that somewhere in the future we will experience disappointment again? Can we learn to apologize, and can we learn to forgive? Can we put the past in the past, even when we know the game will never be fair? For those who cannot—they call them spectators. ▶Are you noticing any of your reports becoming spectators? ▶Are there apologies for you to make or forgiveness to grant?

Mike Cook is a management developer who lives in Anacortes, Wash. He publishes a weekly blog at www. heartofengagement.com.

BrIEFING, FrOm 16

Satellites launching from B.C.?

MicroGreen will be able to produce 2 million InCycle cups per day after the expansion, up from the current 400,000. The company’s investors include the Stillaguamish Tribe and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde in Oregon. It uses technology developed at the University of Washington to make the InCycle cups. The idea is to reduce the waste in landfills by using plastic bottles to create cups that can be recycled over and over. MicroGreen has contracts with several airlines to provide cups for hot beverage service in flight. It’s also looking at using the same technology to expand to other markets, ranging from building construction and electronics to transportation. —The (Everett) Herald Business Journal

Vancouver Island could have its own launch facility for sending satellites into orbit. A Canadian company, Space Launch Canada, which has promoted that idea, recently signed a contract with the Center for Aerospace Research at the University of Victoria to build three satellites, the last of which could be launched from a dedicated facility on Vancouver Island. The contract is “phase 1 in Space Launch Canada’s campaign toward its final objective: to start the first orbital launches from Canada, and to do so from Vancouver Island, B.C.,” the company’s director, Redouane Fakir, said in an email to The (Everett) Daily Herald. The company has promoted putting a launch facility on Vancouver Island since 2011. —The (Everett) Daily Herald

NONPrOFITS, FrOm 20

lence, empowering women and ending racism through dignified housing and support programs.” Mauri Ingram, CEO at Whatcom ComKilty added, “We hope our example encourmunity Foundation, said her organization ages others in the nonprofit sector to create helped support this project because, “this new partnerships, share resources and estabmerger exemplifies leadership. The women lish joint programs, as collaboration has been they serve were their focal point at every step extremely successful in our efforts to provide of the process. That is true community service.” better assistance to more people across the Both organizations agree that the most community.” exciting result of this effort is the improved Womencare Shelter has helped more than service they are both now able to provide for 31,000 victims of domestic violence and their their clients. children find safety in our community. YWCA Cathy Craver, chair of Womencare Shelter’s Bellingham has provided housing to nearly board, put it this way: “Together we can now 10,000 women since moving into its historic provide better services for our clients, ranging building on Forest Street in 1915. from a 24-hour helpline to permanent housing. The new single management structure creates cost savings and facilitates develop- Rachel Myers is the development and programs manager ment of new programs and expansions of at the Whatcom Community Foundation. current services.” This piece is part of a recurring series of columns from the Craver added, “The creation of efficien- Whatcom Council of Nonprofits regularly featured in The cies enables us to advance our shared vision Bellingham Business Journal. of creating a world free from domestic vio-

The Bellingham Business Journal 24

April 2014

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