June 2024 VOICE Magazine

The OlyFed Business Banking

Ti any Lin & Hung Pham Red Lantern Asian Fusion, Yelm

June 2024

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER VOICE MAGAZINE

After Hours

Thank You Sponsors!

Visit ThurstonChamber.com and click on the Events Calendar for the latest information regarding Chamber events. The VOICE prints on FSC® Certified paper. The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC),

Join our host, Nicole's Bar at 109 Legion Way SW Olympia, WA 98501 on Thursday, June 6 at 5:30 p.m. for Thurston Young Professionals (TYP) Monthly Networking Event. Enjoy bites and beverages as you expand your network! All are welcome – feel free to invite other 20 to 30-year-olds so they can expand their networks! Thurston Young Professionals is sponsored by KGY Media Group.

Join our Business After Hours host The Creative Office at 721 Legion Way SE, Olympia, WA 98501 on Thursday, June 20 at 5:30 p.m., for mingling and networking with other business professionals, a door prize business card drawing, beverages and appetizers. Business After Hours is a great opportunity to expand your network, and it is proudly sponsored by ROXY 94.5.

On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at 11:30 a.m., at Saint Martin's Norman Worthington Center, 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503, Leadership Thurston County (LTC) and the Thurston Chamber Foundation will celebrate the graduating LTC Class of 2024! Graduation wraps up a 10-month program in which members met with local, community, and statewide leaders to learn about issues surrounding South Sound communities with on-site visits to businesses, schools, public agencies, and non-profit organizations. Thank you to our sponsor, Olympic Rental & Landlord Services. Register at thurstonchamber.com/events.

Pamper Your Pup with Stress Free Grooming p. 7

The Oly Grooming Co. owner, Macy Morgan knows some pets need extra TLC, whether due to age, injury, breed, fur type or anxiety level.

Integrity is the Blueprint at International Wood Products p. 11

Scott Meyer, GM at IWP's Tumwater location, knows that strong, quality materials are key to your project standing the test of time.

Devaney Electric Co. Has That Special Family Spark p. 15

Veteran- and Family-Owned Devaney Electric Company illuminates the South Sound with personalized service and expertise.

Caught in the Lens p. 22

Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings and see all of the great smiles that make up our membership!

PUBLISHER

Thurston County Chamber of Commerce

EDITORIAL

David Schaffert

360-357-3362 dschaffert@thurstonchamber.com

CONTRIBUTORS

David Schaffert

Kathryn Millhorn

ADVERTISING

Sales & Marketing: Krystal Barkus-Franco Elizabeth Bretschneider

Ashley Chandler Shelbi Boyd

SUBSCRIPTIONS

360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com

DESIGN Ben Hawkes Mosaic Marketing Studio

COVER

The Oly Grooming Co. Owner, Macy Morgan. Photo by Shanna Paxton Photography.

PRINTING Print NW

CONTACT THE CHAMBER

809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com thurstonchamber.com

What's In This Issue

by David Schaffert, President/CEO, Thurston County Chamber

Welcome to the June 2024 edition of VOICE Magazine. This month, we have a fantastic lineup of stories and features that showcase the vibrant and dynamic nature of our community. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can look forward to:

Building with Excellence: International Wood Products When it comes to constructing your next home, office, or worksite, the quality of your materials is crucial. Just as we strive to stay healthy by eating well and exercising, using strong, reliable components ensures that your projects will stand the test of time. This month, we highlight International Wood Products (IWP), an independent building material distributor with clients across ten western states, including Alaska and Hawaii.

That Special Family Spark: Devaney Electric Co. In today’s world, reliable electrical services are essential. Devaney Electric Co., a veteran- and familyowned business with over 35 years of experience, is a standout in Thurston County. Whether you need a new hot tub connected, an EV charger installed, a home remodel, a panel upgrade, or complete property wiring, Dustin and Julia Devaney bring a unique blend of expertise and personalized service to every project.

Pamper Your Pup: Stress-Free Grooming

Our furry friends deserve the best care, and the Oly Grooming Co. is here to provide it. Offering both stationary and mobile grooming services, they ensure a stress-free, one-on-one spa experience for dogs of all shapes, sizes, and personalities. Whether your pup needs a simple bath or a full grooming session, the skilled professionals at Oly Grooming Co. have got you covered.

Celebrating

Leadership Thurston County Graduates Join us in celebrating the accomplishments of this year’s Leadership Thurston County graduates. We will honor them at our June Forum on June 12. Congratulations to all the graduates for their hard work and dedication!

150th Anniversary Community Celebration: Save the Date! Mark your calendars for July 11, when we will celebrate our 150th Anniversary at Port Plaza. This is a community celebration, and we invite you all to join us for an evening of fun, festivities, and camaraderie. This party is on us, so don’t miss out!

Thank you for being a part of the Thurston County Chamber community. Enjoy this issue of VOICE Magazine!

BUILDING COMMUNITY PROSPERITY SINCE 1874

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER

The True Power Of Quality Service

Demonstrating our commitment to quality, we consistently earn the highest QA cleaning scores among hotels nationwide.

Recognized and awarded globally by multiple companies, such as "Contractor of the Year 2023" and “Best Commercial and Industrial Cleaning Firm in North America," we demonstrate our unwavering dedication to excellence.

A commitment to maintaining a clean, wellorganized environment, facilitating smooth business operations.

In the words of our CEO, Danielle Vest, “We are as successful as our clients allow us to be. Because our clients have such great communication with us, we can ensure not only great service but exceptional outcomes."

Pamper Your Pup with Stress Free Grooming

Like people, our pups benefit from a regular dose of bathing, brushing, and pampering.

But some dogs need extra TLC, whether due to age, injury, breed, fur type or anxiety level.

For these fur babies, a skilled professional groomer can work wonders, especially if there’s no stressful car ride or long wait in a loud kennel between steps. The Oly Grooming Co. provides a one-on-one, fullservice spa day for dogs of all shapes, sizes, and personality. Better yet, they offer both stationary and mobile options, even bringing the salon to your own front door.

Owner Macy Morgan started her Olympia-based mobile grooming salon nearly three years ago but has been in the industry for five. In the beginning, it was just Macy and her customized bus, but Oly Grooming Co. now has three buses and four employees and is currently looking to hire more confident, experienced staff. Know someone with that magical combo of skill, caring, and love of slobbery kisses? Call or email olygroomingco@gmail.com to learn more.

by

Kathryn Millhorn

Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography

Who wore it better?

Owner Macy Morgan with one particularly pampered client.

Owner Macy Morgan

Today, the team covers not only Thurston County but has expanded both north and south as well. They pride themselves on a low-stress approach, working with only one dog at a time in a no-cage, start-to-finish session. Whether you choose their stationary van or have one of the two mobile vans come to you, your pooch receives top quality care, products, and attention.

As a full-service groomer, Morgan and the team can do it all. They’re especially good at working with high anxiety pets, those with special needs, and older animals.

Having trouble finding appointment times at those big, chain salons to fit your workday? At Oly Grooming Co., they’ll even provide latchkey options while you’re at the office. Appointments typically take between 60 and 90 minutes and can be set up on a regular, rotating schedule if needed.

New clients should call or text 360.358.5668 for a consultation and scheduling so staff can learn more about your pup. Please do not show up at the stationary site without an appointment as it can overstress the

Appointments typically take 60-90 minutes and can be set up on a regular, rotating schedule. Latchkey options are available too.

dog currently being pampered. Existing customers are able to book through the website at www.OlyGroomingCo.com. Appointment wait times vary but the team is currently working to extend their hours.

As a small business owner, Morgan appreciates civic organizations like the Thurston County Chamber. She has attended many Thurston Young Professionals and Women’s Sphere of Influence networking events and says that these meetings “are invaluable! The connections, resources, and friendships they promote are so awesome and I can’t wait to get more involved.”

The Oly Grooming Co. stationary location can be found at 9313 Yelm Highway SE. When scheduling, their turnaround times are significantly shorter than at-home availability, but both are booking seven days a week for the summer now.

Follow Morgan and the crew on Facebook and Instagram for updates, details, and the cutest before-and-after photos ever. Simply surfing their pictures will bring a smile to any face because what’s cuter than a clean, fuzzy pooch with a bowtie? One with a purple mohawk, trust me! (Check out 2/2/23 on FB, you won’t regret it!)

venablespestmanagement.com info@venablespest.com

Venables Pest Management is a locally owned and operated company using pet-friendly, professional pest management solutions for ants, termites, mice, beetles, spiders, bed bugs, yellow jackets and rats. We also offer commercial and residential maintenance services and real estate inspections. Give us a call today.

International Wood Products: Quality Building Materials, Service and Integrity

by Kathryn Millhorn •

When building a home, office or worksite, the quality of your materials makes a big difference. Just like you and I (try to) eat well or exercise regularly to stay healthy from the inside out, using strong components will make your next project build stand the test of time.

Locally, International Wood Products is an independent building material distributor with clients across 10 western states including Alaska and Hawaii. Their Tumwater location at 8277 Center Street SW continues the company’s 30-year tradition of providing high-quality materials, unsurpassed service, and tirelessly committed employees. Above and beyond is a way of life at IWP. Scott Meyer is Tumwater’s general manager and started his career in building materials distribution while still in high school. Originally a nighttime computer operator, he worked his way through college, progressing from distribution to shipping and receiving, international sales, purchasing, and now general manager. He says that after nearly 40 years in the industry, five with IWP. “IWP is a great place to work with awesome co-workers that have a desire to be the best in the industry.”

Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography

IWP, says Meyer, “is a wholesale building material distribution company that distributes wellknown brands like Trex composite decking, LP Siding & Trim, Allura, Pacific Wood Tech, and Terminal Forest Products. We distribute to lumberyards and construction supply companies that in turn sell to contractors and the public.”

The company is headquartered in Clackamas, Oregon, and its current president Josh preceded Meyer as the Tumwater general manager. There are five IWP branches across Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and California. Tumwater’s site opened its doors in 2008 and now employs 115 people.

At IWP, the overall mission is simple. Their staff is united in purpose to distribute and manufacture quality building materials in a culture built on family values, integrity, reliability, and commitment to community. They work everyday to exceed the expectations of customers, suppliers, and team members from start to finish.

In keeping with the Northwest’s green spirit, IWP believes in staying abreast of environmental policy and the impact of forestry certification regarding their industry. Their team works to promote suppliers who practice sustainable forestry management with minimal environmental impact, and they educate

customers about the importance of these earthfriendly practices.

IWP’s team also fosters strong business partnerships which benefit their chosen communities. Quality and service come from materials but also from working together region wide. “We are excited to join and work with the Chamber of Commerce and like-minded businesses that are looking to expand,” says Meyer. “We are especially excited about the partnership that the Chamber has with the Port of Olympia as we are tenants of the Port and they have been instrumental in helping us grow.”

If your family needs a new home or business requires a bigger base of operations, have your contractor give IWP’s Tumwater branch a call at 360.352.9669 today. Strong materials are always a solid investment when building towards a strong future.

Take it from our Office Mascot, Phoebe...no matter what kind of marketing your company needs, we’ll design a one-of-a-kind campaign with your business’ specific goals and budget in mind.

That Special Family Spark Illuminates Devaney Electric Co.

In the modern world, where electricity powers almost every aspect of our lives, having a reliable electrical service team on standby is crucial. With over 35 years of experience, Devaney Electric Co. stands out in Thurston County. As a veteran- and family-owned local business, they bring a unique blend of expertise and personalized service to every project.

by Kathryn Millhorn

• Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography

Devaney can do it all, whether tying in a new hot tub, installing an EV charger, remodeling your home, upgrading your panel, or wiring property from the ground up. Owners Dustin and Julia Devaney are customer-focused and always ready to go.

"We are not just electrical contractors but problem solvers and visionaries. Dustin, a licensed 01 electrician, is passionate about delivering the best quality service and value to our customers. He is deeply committed to understanding your unique vision and executing it to perfection. This commitment to your satisfaction is not just a business strategy; it's a personal promise,” said Julia.

The Devaneys came to this industry by a circuitous route, but they love where they ended up. Dustin spent four years in the Army and two as a corrections officer in Shelton before switching career paths in 2003. Julia worked in the casino industry for 16 years. In 2018, she returned to school at South Puget Sound Community College to learn how to start and run a business.

Despite rocky timing—Devaney Electric Co. opened its doors during the COVID-19 pandemic—it is thriving. "We are a family and veteran-owned and operated business," says Julia. We do everything electrical, from service calls to design/builds for all residential and small commercial projects. We offer veteran and senior discounts and have a referral program."

In 2024, the team landed their largest commercial contract to date and is looking to expand their team very soon. They underwent a recent brand refresh and even make working with your spouse look easy. "Being a husband/ wife team has its challenges," laughs Julia, "but at the end of the day, there's no one else he'd rather have boss him around all day than me!"

Owners Dustin and Julia Devaney are customer-focused and always ready

to go.

Julia explained that Devaney Electric Co. believes in giving back to the community that has supported it. "We enjoy working with civic organizations and local small businesses, and our involvement with the Thurston County Chamber has had a significant impact on our business," said Julia.

They are proud to be industry leaders and communicate the importance and rewards of blue-collar work.

"One example is when Elizabeth Bretschneider at the Chamber invited us to participate in Find Your Future (FYF). We gladly accepted, recognizing the challenge of attracting young people to blue-collar fields. As leaders in this industry, it is our duty to communicate how important and rewarding these careers can be."

Participating in FYF, designed to help students and their families with career exploration, even helped the Devaneys land a new client. "It was a nice surprise, to say the least," says Julia. We were not expecting that at all!"

Call 360.870.3730 or visit www.DevaneyElectric.co to learn more or schedule a free quote. When your life's missing that vital spark, Devaney Electric Co. is happy to help.

Celebrate with us!

July 11, 2024 • 4pm Port Plaza

Thurston County Chamber Marks 150 Years of Community Leadership

In 2024, the Thurston County Chamber proudly celebrates a significant milestone - its 150th anniversary. Since its inception, the Thurston County Chamber has been at the forefront of driving progress and innovation in our community. From the strategic formation of the Port of Olympia in 1922, unlocking vital waterway access for vessels, to the visionary establishment of the Economic Development Council in 1981, catalyzing a more diversified economy, the Chamber has consistently paved the way for growth and prosperity.

In 1994, recognizing the pivotal role of education in shaping our future workforce, the Chamber took another bold step by launching its non-profit foundation. This initiative aimed to bridge the gap between education and business, investing in the development of leaders and providing essential resources for individuals at every stage of life and learning.

As we celebrate 150 years of Chamber leadership, we reflect on our rich history of driving positive change and look ahead to the continued collaboration and innovation that will shape the next chapter of our community’s success.

Upholding a Timeless Mission

Since its inception, the Chamber has remained true to its mission: to foster, protect, and encourage commercial, mercantile, and other public interests. Upholding the objectives set forth in its first articles of incorporation, the Chamber continues to procure, preserve, and disseminate valuable statistics and information for the greater good of the community.

Integral to Community Fabric

At 150 years old, the Thurston Chamber's role is deeply ingrained in the fabric of our communities. It serves as a testament to the dedication of its members, leadership, and the community-at-

large, acting as a catalyst for innovation, growth, and business prosperity.

Join the Celebration

To commemorate this historic occasion, the Thurston County Chamber invites the community to join in the festivities.

Save the Date

Join us to celebrate a century and a half of Thurston Chamber's impact on our community, at a Community Celebration at Port Plaza on July 11, 2024. This free event, featuring live music and refreshing beverages, serves as a testament to the Chamber's enduring commitment to fostering community engagement.

What: Thurston County Chamber's 150th Anniversary Celebration

When: July 11, 2024, 4pm

Where: Port Plaza, 701 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501

Leadership Thurston County Celebrates Class of 2024

Leadership Thurston County (LTC) and the Thurston Chamber Foundation will honor the LTC Class of 2024 on Wednesday, June 12, at 11:30am at the Chamber's Monthly Forum. Graduation wraps up a 10-month program in which class members networked with local, community, and statewide leaders to learn about issues surrounding the South Sound and explored how to become more engaged and active in the community. Class members learned about economic development, environmental issues, education and health and human services through on site visits to businesses, schools, public agencies, and non-profit organizations. Congratulations to the LTC Class of 2024 graduates:

Allison Dellwo Recreation and Conservation Office

Amanda Ybarra South Puget Sound Community College

Amy Zurfluh Intercity Transit

Anthony Choke Nisqually Red Wind Casino

Anthony Cooper Providence Swedish

Arissa De Lima Pacific Mountain Workforce Development

Aron Dowell Olympia Federal Savings and Loan

Ashley Stone Express Employment Professionals

Cari Pearson Providence St. Peter Hospital

Casey Rieland MultiCare Capital Medical Center

Chelsea Yarwood City of Lacey

Corey Lopardi Pardiman Productions

Danny Stusser The JOLT News Organization

Elizabeth Drake Dispute Resolution Center of Thurston County

Frankie Peters Thurston County District Court

Herschel Stampfer Retreat Center at Camp Solomon Schechter

Jaima Kortlever

Jarod Olsen Medicine Creek Enterprise Corporation

Jason Hardy City of Yelm

Jeff Johnston Olympic Region Clean Air Agency (ORCAA)

Karen Hall South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity

Katie McMurray Sensory Tool House, LLC

Kelly Von Holtz The Evergreen State College

Lee Lord AMCOR Rigid Plastics Tumwater

Maija Glasier-Lawson Family Support Center of South Sound

Mark Crocker TwinStar Credit Union

Michelle Gipson South Sound YMCA

Olivia Hickerson EmpowerTactics

Riley Gibson Sky Bear Media

Robin Spencer LOTT Clean Water Alliance

Sara Black Olympic Rental & Landlord Services

Sara Wattenberg Puget Sound Energy

Scott Tompkins John L. Scott Real Estate

Shad Hanselman

Shantelle “Shay” Owens Fairchild Record Search Ltd.

Shelby Parker City of Olympia

Steve Schmitz KPFF Consulting Engineers

Zach Davis-Price United Way of Thurston County

Welcome New Members!

4th Dimension Construction

360-819-8075

4thdimensionconstruction.com

Construction

All You Need Landscaping, LLC

360-870-3192

allyouneedlandscaping.com

Landscape Contractors

Association of the United States Army Nationals - JBLM (AUSA)

337-516-8738

ausajblm.org

Non-Profit Orgs & Associations

Chuckals Office Products

253-620-2350

www.chuckals.com

Office Products

Clean Slate Hauling & Junk Removal

253-579-9378

cleanslatejunk.net

Junk Removal

Colvin Ranch

360-339-8465

colvinranch.com

Farmers & Produce Markets

Country Financial - Jared Deel

360-252-1483

countryfinancial.com/jared.deel

Insurance

Essential Direct Primary Care

360-688-1151

essentialdpc.com

Health Care

Evergreen Family Chiropractic

360-943-7360

evergreenfamilychirowa.com

Chiropractic Care

Evergreen Home Loans - Olympia

360-209-5740

evergreenhomeloans.com/offices/ olympia-washington Loans, Mortgage & Lending

Family Man Remodeling

360-480-4661

FamilyManTeam.com

Home Improvements

Ghost Town Tattoo Olympia

360-346-6085

facebook.com/ghosttowntattooolympia Tattoo Artist

Insperity

253-754-4260

insperity.com/bpa/jessica.dunson HR Services

International Wood Products

360-352-9669

iwpllc.com

Manufacturing, Production, and Wholesale

JFlo's Automotive Tint LLC

360-975-8588

jflosautotint.services

Automotive & Marine

Khrexel Tech Group

800-773 0958

trained360.com

Computer Training

Lee Family Loans

253-359-0807

LeeFamilyLoans.com Loans, Mortgage & Lending

Lynch Creek Farm

888-426-0781

lynchcreekwreaths.com

Agriculture, Fishing & Forestry

ML Art Group LLC

360-731-3241

mlartgroup.com

Business & Professional Services

Mr. Junkio LLC

564-230-1086

mrjunkio.com

Garbage and Recycling

NiuOla Health

360-382-2762

niuolah.com

Health Care

NorthStar Law Group, P.S.

360-292-4556

nslawgrp.com

Attorneys & Legal Services

Orca Pediatrics

360-472-2772

orcapeds.com

Health Care

Pacific All Risk Insurance Brokers

714-900-2363

pacificallriskinsurancebrokers.com

Finance & Insurance

Painting with a Twist

360-878-8088

PaintingwithaTwist.com/lacey Arts, Culture & Entertainment

Pawsific NorthWest Cat Cafe

360-504-6705

pawsnwcafe.com

Restaurants, Food & Beverages

Perfect Temp Inc.

360-890-4312

perfecttempinc.com

Heating & Air Conditioning

Pilkey Hopping & Ekberg

253-756-2000

pheinsurance.com

Finance & Insurance

Premier Direct Care Physicians

Network

360-382-2762

pdcpn.blogspot.com

Health Care

Pricor Technologies LLC

260-258-5270

pricortech.com

Plumbing & Septic

Rebecca Sue Photography

360-915-9110

rebeccasuephotography.com

Photographers

Rental Housing Association of Washington

206-283-0816

rhawa.org

Professional Services – Real Estate

RUZICKA CPA, PLLC

360-529-5830

ruzicka.cpa Accountants

Shelley Merchant Solutions

253-363-0760

Merchant Services

Stephanie Putman Real Estate Broker

360-634-8600

stephanieputman.myrealtyonegroup.com

Agents & Companies - Residential

Sunshyne Charities

253-290-9880

sunshynecharities.org

Non-Profit Orgs & Associations

TAPServices, WA LLC

206-397-2639

tapserviceswa.com

Finance & Insurance

The Olympian Barbershop

360-742-3632

theolympianbarbershop.com

Personal Services & Care, Hair Salons

Tomlinson Linen Service

253-627-1177

tomlinsonlinenservice.com

Laundry & Dry Cleaning

Tumwater Renovators

360-819-8859

tumwaterrenovators.com

Contractors

WIlliamson Creative Agency LLC

248-830-5989

williamsoncreativeagency.com

Marketing

Caught in the Lens

Keep up with the Thurston Chamber happenings – ribbon cuttings and the networking events. Find more at the Chamber's Facebook page – fb.com/thurstoncountychamber.

Thank You CommunityInvestors