MARCH/APRIL 2014
THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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downtown:
opportunities & Issues facing the heart of Olympia See Page 12 B UI L DI NG COMMUNITY PROSPERITY FOR OVE R 135 YEARS
CONTENTS
CALENDAR
Page 3 .............President’s Column: The Future of Downtown Page 3................................................................Save the Date! Page 4 ............................Chair’s Column: Membership Recap Page 5................................................Welcome New Members Page 6.......................................................Chamber Advocacy Page 12................................Cover Story: Downtown Olympia Page 16................................Join Leadership Thurston County Page 19 ............................March Forum: Best of South Sound Page 20.......................................................Networking Events Page 23.......................................April Forum: Thurston Green
Copyright © 2007 Thurston County Chamber ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Published bimonthly by the Thurston County Chamber.
809 Legion Way P.O. Box 1427 Olympia, WA 98507 www.thurstonchamber.com info@thurstonchamber.com 360.357.3362
March 4 Morning Mixxer - 7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m. - Comfort Inn 1620 74th Ave SW, Tumwater. March 12 Forum - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Red Lion Hotel, Olympia Topic: Best of South Sound. March 20 Business After Hours - 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. DescoAV 2306 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia March 18 SBA Loan Seminar- 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Thurston County Chamber, 809 Legion Way, Olympia March 22 Find Your Future - 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Timberline High School, 6120 Mullen Rd SE, Olympia. April 1 Morning Mixxer - 7:30-8:30 a.m. - South Puget Sound Community College , 2011 Mottman Road SW, Olympia April 9 Forum - 11:30 a.m. -1 p.m. - Red Lion Hotel, Olympia Topic: Thurston Green Business April 17 Business After Hours - 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. - Nicholson & Associates Insurance, 1802 Black Lake Blvd., SW # 301, Olympia April 18 A Night on the Town - 6:00 p.m. Capital Event Center
Join the conversation online at facebook.com/ThurstonCountyChamber.
These events require pre-registration at www.thurstonchamber.com
BUILDING COMMUNITY PROSPERITY FOR OVER 135 YEARS Diamond Investors:
Executive Officers Mike Marohn, Chair Morgan Stanley Ron Bruchet, Chair Elect GHB Insurance Mariella Cummings, Vice Chair Physicians of SW WA Neil Woody, Treasurer McSwain & Company PS Reid Bates, Past Chair Express Employment Professionals
Platinum Investors The Creative Office GCI Ad Agency GHB Insurance • Key Bank Mills & Mills Funeral Home & Memorial Park Morningside Port of Olympia Puget Sound Energy TwinStar Credit Union Washington Business Bank
Gold Investors Columbia Bank • D Zines Creative Solutions First Citizens Bank Express Employment Professionals Great Wolf Lodge • Jessica Jensen Law PS LOTT Alliance • Nisqually Red Wind Casino Pardiman Productions Providence St. Peter Hospital Red Lion Hotel Olympia • Saint Martin’s University SCJ Alliance Williams Group Marketing + Design • Xerox
CHAMBER BOARD & STAFF Board of Trustees Michael Cade, Thurston EDC Jean Carr, SCJ Alliance Jessica Coen, Xerox Dick Cvitanich, Olympia School District George Barner Port of Olympia Cheryl Fambles, PAC Mountain Workforce Development Council
Perry Hanchey, Diamond Technology Innovations George Le Masurier, The Olympian Cheryl Selby, Vivala Jerald Shaw, Anchor Bank Kevin Stormans, Stormans Inc. Sandi Wilson, Thurston First Bank
Jim Geist, Capital Medical Center Editor: David Schaffert Layout & Design: Natasha Ashenhurst Printing: Print NW
2 • March/April 2014 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
Chamber Staff David Schaffert, President/CEO Sytease Geib, VP Workforce Development Marny Bright, VP Member Services Alisha Blain, Events Coordinator Laurie Bjerke, Admin. Assistant Debbie Burk, Workforce Development Patti Grant, Leadership Thurston County Beth Johnson, Member Services Pam Singleton, Finance Officer Matthew Sult, Member Services Martha Wagner, Member Services www.thurstonchamber.com
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Chamber Members Sound Off on Downtown By David Schaffert, Thurston County Chamber of Commerce President/CEO David Schaffert
T
he Thurston County Chamber of Commerce recently surveyed our newsletter subscribers – made up primarily of members – to gain insight into the opinions of Olympia’s downtown area. Our goal was to create a trend-line gauging public perception of an important community issue. We received several hundred responses from people passionate about what downtown is, was, and could be.
When asked, “What do you like most about downtown?”, responses gravitated toward specific characteristics of downtown – e.g. the waterfront, restaurants, the Farmers Market, old town feeling, walkability, Capitol Lake, Percival Landing and unique businesses.
Here are some of the excerpts from the survey:
Subscribers cited negative social behaviors, transient populations, safety and the general appearance of downtown as things they disliked about downtown.
When asked how promising the future of downtown Olympia is as a first-rate destination, 46 percent believe its future to be moderately to extremely promising, while 54 percent believed slightly to not at all promising.
Suggestions for improving downtown were varied, but many fell into three categories: alleviation of non-congruent social behaviors, support business development and private sector investment, and increase police presence.
When asked about how satisfied they are when visiting downtown Olympia, 33 percent were moderately to extremely satisfied, while 39 percent were dissatisfied. With respect to leadership by elected officials, a large percentage believed elected officials were not doing enough to create a vibrant downtown.
I see real pride and appreciation for Olympia’s downtown, its unique character and its history and role as the state's capital downtown. People want the city and its leaders to take bold action to make downtown a vibrant and sustainable place where people can live, work and play. I also see an understanding of the importance business has in the health of our downtown, both as an amenity and wealth generator.
On the perception of safety, 43 percent felt slightly to not at all safe, while 38 percent felt moderately safe and 19 percent felt very y to extremely y safe.
Our cover story in this issue of the Voice explores these issues further. If you would like to join this conversation, give me a call at 360.357.3362.
SAVE T H E DAT E ! Thurston County Chamber Annual Meeting
Brewfest 2014! Saturday, August 2
Wednesday, May 14 Red Lion Hotel, Olympia 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. $35 Members, $45 Non-Members 360.357.3362. Presenting Sponsors:
Heritage Room, June 17, 2014 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. For updated information visit: www.thurstonchamber.com Presenting Sponsor:
Port Plaza Noon - 8 p.m. Last call, 7:30 p.m. For sponsorship information, contact the Chamber at 360.357.3362. Brew, food and bands! Proceeds benefit the Thurston County Chamber Foundation Small Business Incubator.
More information about upcoming events can be found at www.thurstonchamber.com.
www.thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE March/April 2014 3
MESSAGE FROM BOARD CH AIR
Welcoming the New, Thanking the Loyal By Mike Marohn, Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor and part owner of 94.5 ROXY
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heard stories like this repeated over and over throughout our recent membership event: “We finally joined the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce because I was called by five friends, all incredulous that I wasn’t already a member. “I never thought I had time to join before, but each call I received made me realize that Chamber membership isn’t only about attending networking events. Membership is about investing in my community by supporting an organization committed to business, community, education and the success of my business. “I had no choice but to join. Thanks for motivating me to finally become a member.” During the membership event in January, we welcomed more than 150 new Chamber members. Our success is a testament to this community coming together to share the Chamber story, community leaders connecting in a high-energy environment, and new members stepping up to support the Chamber’s mission. The event also revitalized our existing membership. Members are proud to be a part of a chamber that advocates for business
4 March/April 2014 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
at the federal, state and local levels; Mike Marohn advocates for transportation and infrastructure; champions education and the environment; and provides a foundation for individual business success through networking, opportunity and visibility. Our Chamber is comprised of dynamic individuals who are committed to business success, and the Chamber is where you can make contact with and learn from them. Successful businesses in our community know the value of the Chamber’s advocacy efforts, yet they also know how to leverage the Chamber as a tool for further growth opportunities. We are grateful to each and every member who volunteered their time and made this event a success. To our newest members, thank you. Your membership ensures that our Chamber will continue to shape our community, and reaffirms that our organization is the bedrock of business in our region and the champion of community prosperity.
www.thurstonchamber.com
THE CHAMBER WELCOMES 160 NEW MEMBERS FROM DECEMBER & JANUARY 1000 Words 3 Degrees Inc. A-1 Roofing, Inc. A.S.H.H.O. Acme Wine Co. Adam Laneer Construction Advanced Equipment Aflac - Kim Parks Ahlf Law Office Airport Golf & Batting Center Al's Welding Allwest Moving & Storage Associated Earth Sciences, Inc. Axia Home Loan Baker Underground & Construction, LLC Bark & Garden Center Batdorf & Bronson Batteries Plus Bay Equity Mortgage Betschart Electric Co., Inc. Black Lake Collision Larry Blume Bracy & Thomas Briggs Village, LLC Capital Development Company Capital Family Dentistry Capital Urology Cedar Bay Cabinetry & Woodworks Clarity Health Services - Seattle Coastal Aire Concepts Coldwell Banker Team - Jeanne Tranum Coldwell Banker - John Duerr Cooper Point Public House Cornerstone Home Mortgage Ct Specialties Cut Rate Auto Parts - Lacey Dan Glenn & Associates, Ps Design Line Dental Systems Detray's LLC Diventare Creative Dockside Bistro & Wine Bar DSW Ducoterra Dutch Bros Edwards Family Dentistry Effective Web Solutions El Sarape Energy Efficiency First Epd Services, Inc. Epic Event Decor Farmers Insurance - Jay C. Gregory Financial Revival Group Inc Floor Express, Inc Foamsword Parties LLC Goodyear Courtesy Auto
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Governor Hotel Greene Realty - Brenner And Watts Henderson Law Group, PLLC Home Depot Hospitality Healthcare Services Hydro Tech Fire Protection Impressions Dentistry J & I Power Equipment Jacknut Apparel James B. Hutchinson, Dds Jay's Farm Stand Jeffrey B. Glander & Associates, Pllc Jeffrey D. Stier, Attorney At Law Jmg Painting John R. Morton, Cpa, Ps Jt Painting Company, LLC Kastellan Brauerei Kbh Construction Company Keller Williams Realty Olympia - Ed Kunkel Jr., Kohout's Automotive & Alignment Krippner Consulting , Inc. Labas612 LLC Lacey Forza Lemier Phillips Construction LimeBerry Mathis Exterminating Mcgladrey, Inc. Mclees Automotive Repair Miller & Sons Incorporated Mini-Oaks Adult Family Home Morgan Stanley - Mike Eberly Moss Adams LLP Mud Bay Mud Bay Coffee Company Nakamura & Associates New Leaf Hyperberics Northwest Benefits Inc. Northwest Financial Homes Northwest Welding & Fabrication Inc. Northwind Pet Care Center O'blarney's Irish Pub Olympia Broadcasters Media Agency Olympia Copy & Printing Olympic Flight Museum Olympic View Group, Inc. Orca Construction, Inc. The Other Guys, Inc Oyster Bay Construction Pacific Stage, Inc. Patrick Harron & Associates Paul Muldoon Wells Fargo Financial Advisor PCI Pest Control PCS Structural Solutions Pettepiece Photography
Pillar Financial Group Precisionary Vocational And Safety Consulting Premera Blue Cross Premier Broadcasters Premier Power Electric Llc Priest Point Townhomes Llc Principal Financial Group Print NW Puget Sound Blood Center Puget Sound Healthcare Center Puresolar Quest Diagnostics Reliable Electric Inc. Ritter Holding Company Inc Rivers Life And Business Coaching Sans M Gilmore, P.s., Inc. Sare Electrical Scott Wall Construction Seattle Shellfish LLC Sherwood & Company - Kelly Sherwood Sound Guard Security Sound Shade And Shutter South Sound Reading Foundation Southwest Washington Contractors Association Steele Capital Management Stonewell Lodge & Cottage Strategies 360 Inc Sunset Air, Inc. Synergy Home Care Tacoma Screw Tcsw Food Waste Program Tenino Denture Center - Mae Nell Sullivan Terry Electric Thomas & Associates Consulting Three Magnets Brewing Co. Top Rung Brewing Co. Town & Country Roofing US Bank - Lacey US Bank - Olympia Valley Freightliner, Inc. Van Dorm Realty - Paul Klenk Walker Family Chiropractic Watson Diesel Repair Weinberg & Ziegler, PLLC Wells Fargo Insurance Services Programs Practice West Woods Assisted Living Whims Insurance And Financial Services World Transportation Network Pete Sutch WSECU Zoe Juice Bar
Thurston County Chamber VOICE March/April 2014 5
CHAMBER ADVOCACY
Learn How Your Business Can Support Thurston County Students
M
arch and April are busy months for the Chamber Foundation. Find Your Future takes place on March 22, and Math for Life is held during Spring Break.
F
ind Your Future is a half-day career event for students and their parents. Find Your Future believes that it is just as important to know what you don’t want to pursue career-wise, as knowing what you do want to pursue. Find Your Future helps students pinpoint a career path that excites and motivates them. One way to think about these programs is that they are stepping stones that prepare individuals from middle school all the way through to adulthood to enter the world of work and business, and once they are established in their career, they are connected back to the world of learning. Amanda is a 19 year-old graduate of Yelm High School and a student at South Puget Sound Community College. As a high school student she first became aware of the Chamber when she participated in Find Your Future. “Find Your Future is really helpful if you don’t know what career path to take. At Find Your Future I was able to attend classes presented by different businesses in the area and listen as they talk about what different careers are like. There is also a career fair. It was fun to learn about all the careers we can pursue,” she said. One year Amanda decided to take a class
on what it would be like to be an airline pilot. “At Find Your Future a lot of students get a good idea of what they want to become and what they don’t want to become. I don’t want to be a pilot,” she said. Amanda learned what many professionals found out at her age: Ruling out options is extremely helpful to determine the correct path to take.
“With hard work and opportunity Thurston County students can achieve their dreams. The students need to supply the hard work; we need to provide them with the opportunity.” -David Schaffert. David Schaffert, President/CEO of the Chamber said, “With hard work and opportunity Thurston County students can achieve their dreams. The students need to supply the hard work; we need to provide them with the opportunity.”
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ath for Life, in partnership with local school districts, promotes real-life math skills. Local businesses sponsor the program. Students from area school districts visit participating businesses to solve practical math problems. After visiting several
6 March/April 2014 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
businesses and answering math problems, students are eligible for prizes. “Businesses are looking for ways to engage with kids – as well as the community – and Math for Life allows them to do that,” said Schaffert. “Parents love the program because it reinforces what their children learn in school by providing real-life examples.” This year, the Chamber is capping the number of businesses participating at 100, so businesses need to sign up soon. “This is a chance to get involved in the community, support education and our children, and it’s an unbelievable advertising opportunity,” said Dirk Farrar, a financial advisor at Edward Jones, a Math for Life participant. “We provide a venue for as many as 700 kids to see the importance of math in daily life. We also enjoy the face to face interaction with the kids. They ask questions that help them realize that math is something they’ll use for the rest of their lives,” he said. Here is how the program works: Students receive a Math for Life map, which they take to different Chamber member businesses who’ve signed up for the program. Businesses interact with students as they ask grade-level math questions. Students get their map stamped at each location. When they submit their completed map to their teacher, they qualify for a chance to win great prizes. If you are interested in becoming a Math for Life business or a participant or sponsor at Find Your Future, please contact the Chamber at 360.357.3362 or visit www.thurstonchamber.com ●
www.thurstonchamber.com
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IT’S ABOUT EDUCATION APRIL 18, 6:00 P.M. CAPITAL EVENT CENTER
Make “A Night on the Town” the Event to Remember
A
Night on the Town celebrates the Chamber Foundation’s twenty-year investment in community education and leadership.
A showcase of its programs – Find Your Future, Math for Life, Leadership Thurston County and the Small Business Incubator – during an evening filled with entertainment, an exclusive live auction, cocktail hour and a few surprises, makes A Night on the
Town a not-to-be-missed event. Watch for information pertaining to procurement, sponsorships and donations. Reservations available online at www.thurstonchamber.com. Please contact the Chamber with any questions at 360.357.3362. Until then, be sure to mark your calendar for A Night on the Town! ●
Cocktail Hour • Interactive Dining Experience • Exclusive Live Auction • VIP After Party Reservations
Sponsorship
Donate
Make your online reservation today. Cost: $100 per person, $800 per table.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Find out how your organization can benefit.
100% of all donations will directly support the Foundation’s four educational programs. Consider making a tax-deductible donation today.
Call 360.357.3362 or visit www.thurstonchamber.com today!
What is the Chamber Foundation? Created in 1993, the Thurston County Chamber Foundation was established to house the educational programs of the Chamber. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit with four programs: Leadership Thurston County, developing local leaders; Find Your Future, student career exploration; the Small Business Incubator, for small business development; and Math for Life, engaging local businesses and students with real world math.
www.thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE March/April 2014 9
Jessica Jensen Law Announces Addition: Attorney Katie Beeler
W
e are pleased to announce the addition of attorney Katie Beeler to the already burgeoning team at Jessica Jensen Law PS located in West Olympia. Katie will be partnering with attorney Jessica Jensen to help business owners with all of the legal aspects of owning and operating a successful business. From strategizing initial business structures and human resource matters, to guiding clients through growth and succession planning, Katie is a welcome addition to our practice. She will also be handling Intellectual Property, Estate Planning, Personal Injury, and Land Use matters. Prior to joining our firm, Katie practiced family law, representing clients in dissolution and protection order hearings. She still works on family law matters as needed, representing clients in their uncontested dissolutions.
grant recipient for her work representing lowincome clients in family law matters.
Paid For By
Katie is from the Pacific Northwest, where she grew up in a suburb to Seattle and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma. Her subsequent work with previously incarcerated youth led to her desire to attend law school to help clients who face social and financial impediments to accessing justice. With its focus on social justice, she attended Seattle University School of Law. Outside of the classroom, she clerked for several judges at the Tacoma Immigration Court and later became a
Katie Beeler
In her free time, Katie avidly practices yoga, runs, and enjoys being outdoors. Katie takes a compassionate and holistic approach to working with clients. New to the Olympia area, she is enthusiastic about exploring the surrounding nature and culture while developing lasting relationships in the community. Our practice areas include Business, Real Estate and Land Use, Wills, Trusts and Estates, and Collaborative Family Law. Located at 2604 12th Court SW, Suite B, Olympia, WA 98502 we are ready to serve your needs. You can reach Jessica Jensen, Carmen Rowe or Katie Beeler by calling us at (360) 705-1335 or emailing to info@jessicajensenlaw.com. â&#x2014;?
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Thurston County Chamber VOICE March/April 2014 11
Downtown Olympia – Opportunities and Issues Facing Our Community's Historic Center By Natasha Ashenhurst
D
owntowns can be a study in contrasts. A homeless man sleeping on the sidewalk outside a furniture store. A woman pushing a jogging stroller through a waterfront park where a clean-up crew picks up needles. A panhandler holding a sign reading, “Will work for food,” outside a restaurant. “We expect, on occasion, to see homelessness, panhandling and drug use in our downtown, but we’re seeing some of these problems become the norm rather than the exception,” said David Schaffert, Chamber President/CEO. “These very visible problems impart a perception that our downtown is not safe and this perception keeps people from enjoying our downtown and hurts our businesses.” The Thurston County Chamber of Commerce surveyed Chamber newsletter subscribers in January to gauge perceptions of the climate of downtown Olympia. Almost half of those surveyed responded, and those responses named the problems affecting downtown: drug
abuse, homelessness, mental health behaviors, vacant lots, litter and garbage. While responders also pointed to things they appreciated about downtown — including the waterfront, the Farmers Market, and many great businesses that act as a magnet — most believe the problems Olympia faces are at a point where immediate action is required.
downtown the most,” said Olympia City Manager Steve Hall. “I believe our downtown business climate is mixed. There are a lot of wonderful pieces to Olympia – the mountain views, the waterfront, the state capital — but there are challenges as well, and it is necessary for the city to respond to those challenges.”
The Chamber shared some of these perceptions with several leaders in the community to gauge their reaction to these issues, and to convey our members concerns. This story is their response.
Hall explained that two years ago the City of Olympia launched The Downtown Project, which identified three areas where the city needed to do more: Law enforcement, social services and investment. This project was broken up into three phases, each tackling very specific initiatives falling into one of the three areas.
“The people who are most vocal about the state of downtown Olympia are also the people who seem to love our
VOICE cover photo courtesy of the City of Olympia. Photo above: Olympia Downtown Ambassadors. Courtesy of the City of Olympia. 12 • March/April 2014 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
www.thurstonchamber.com
Leadership Thurston County Class of 2013 toured downtown on Arts and Culture Day.
Hall believes that law enforcement and regulations are a critical piece of the downtown solution. He outlined a few steps the city has already taken toward these goals. “We’ve made it illegal to sit or lie down on the sidewalks from 7 a.m. until midnight. We have a no camping ordinance, and recently added an alcohol impact ordinance — which restricts the sale of high octane, low-cost alcohol in certain areas.” The city is also working toward the goal of downtown safety through other ways, such as the alleyway lighting project, the expansion of the Downtown Ambassador program and strengthening the Downtown Neighborhood Association. Other organizations throughout the county are partners with the city in addressing law enforcement issues. Jon Tunheim, Thurston County’s prosecuting attorney, agrees with the strategy. “The entire county impacts downtown,” said Tunheim. “We need to approach these problems from a regional standpoint.” Tunheim has had concerns about downtown for a long time, but in the last six months, he has seen a shift in the www.thurstonchamber.com
conversation. “The tone started to shift and all of the good things about downtown were getting drowned out by the problems that are there.” Recently, Tunheim — together with Olympia Police Chief Ronnie Roberts and other regulatory organizations — established an enforcement group called Working Together for a Better Downtown to look at the issues more collaboratively. Their goal is to improve downtown by focusing on safety and the perceptions of safety. Specifically, Tunheim’s office is working with the county health department and law enforcement to establish a mental health triage resource in the county, and the prosecutor’s office has appointed a deputy prosecutor to handle all downtown narcotics cases. Another tool in this new approach is creating a 1,000-foot drug free zones around municipal buildings and community centers, covering much of downtown. “Rather than completely solve problems, these tools are meant to discourage drug use downtown and increase penalties for those arrested for drug offenses,” said Tunheim.
Other efforts include the addition of two walking patrol officers to downtown policing efforts. Tunheim also states that the Olympia Police Department will have a representative on the Thurston County Narcotics Task Force, and that Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater police departments are working together with state patrol, the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office and Thurston County prosecutor’s office in a multi-department effort to effectively address these issues. “This has to be a community-wide effort. This conversation is evolving and we have a great group of stakeholders,” said Tunheim. “The Olympia Downtown Association and the Thurston County Chamber are great at starting these conversations and moving them forward.”
Mental Health and Social Services The second part of the solution, according to Hall, involves mental health and social services. One issue related to services is establishing accountability. “We have several social service organizations located downtown, and these providers need to hold their clients accountable for their behaviors,” Hall said. “If clients do not follow provider
Thurston County Chamber VOICE March/April 2014 13
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“The big issue and the key to the successful transformation of downtown is housing,” Hall said. “It is great that we have affordable housing downtown, but we need market-value housing that will attract middle and high-income residents who will provide the economic activity that we need for a healthy downtown.” The Clean Team, part of the Downtown Ambassador Program, cleaning up downtown Olympia. Photo courtesy of the City of Olympia.
rules, they should not receive services. Providers need to be part of the solution.” “We have three or four different action teams working right now on issues impacting downtown,” said Don Sloma, director of the Thurston County Department of Public Health and Social Services. “We’re seeing an unprecedented city, county and private sector cooperation on these issues.” Sloma also recognizes the impact of heroin on the community, particularly at a time when drug treatment has been cut by 25 percent or more because of state and federal cuts. “Our treatment capacity is down 42 percent, even as demand has increased,” said Sloma. “The good news is that other communities have successfully coped with challenges like ours. We know what we can do to bring this problem under better control. What is more, the county and the city are already putting some known solutions into place.”
Private Sector Investment and Physical Investment The final part of the solution, as outlined by the city, is to focus on physical and economic investment. Some projects are complete, such as the East Bay Plaza, while others are underway, such as the $5 million reinvestment in the Washington Center. But according to Steve Hall, this isn’t enough.
Walker John, who has completed several renovations of commercial property downtown, including the Cunningham Building, and is currently working on the 600 Franklin Street building that was once home to Sears and the state Department of Personnel, agrees with Hall.
“The big issue and the key to the successful transformation of downtown is housing. It is great that we have affordable housing downtown, but we need market-value housing that will attract middle and high-income residents who will provide the economic activity that we need for a healthy downtown.” -Steve Hall
those issues aren’t slowing down his investment at all, in fact, he has a lot of projects in the wings. “I am working on another 19-unit renovation in the Thurston First building that will be called the Franklin Lofts,” said John. “They’ll have a different look, more like something you would find in Seattle, with exposed concrete and lofted ceilings. “I’ll continue to invest downtown, and hopefully my success will breed imitation. I’m happy with everything I’ve done so far and I’ve never had a problem renting an apartment building, so I’ll keep building them.” Jim Haley, President/CEO of Thurston First Bank is acting on his belief that downtown Olympia will not only overcome current challenges, but will thrive. “Downtown is a special place and it needs local help and ownership,” said Haley. “Too many times folks in Olympia have discarded downtown when they should be working to improve it.
“I look at Olympia and believe that it has everything needed except housing,” said John. “I believe strongly in urban housing from a demographic standpoint. It is a national trend that statistics are bearing out. Investment in downtown renovation makes sense. I can buy buildings downtown far below replacement costs.”
“As a community bank, we are demonstrating our commitment by moving right into the heart of downtown, and we’re investing a lot of money in the form of loans for downtown projects. Solutions to problems facing downtown will require a partnership between the public and private sectors, but private investment has to lead the way with help from public leadership and incentives.”
In one building, John has 12 market-value apartments that have a very low vacancy rate and solid rents. He plans on building more.
Like Haley, Hall is hopeful that we’ll soon experience a thriving, safe and vibrant downtown, but like Tunheim, acknowledges that change can take time.
“There is demand. People want to live downtown,” said John. “Olympia has a lack of housing. Everyone leaves downtown at 5 p.m. People need to live down here.”
“The important thing is how the community responds. People need to shop, invest, live and get their entertainment downtown,” said Hall. “We need people to go out to dinner, and then go to a play at the Washington Center. It is going to take the whole community to make things better.” ●
John believes that every city grapples with the issues facing Olympia, but
Natasha Ashenhurst is a writer for the Thurston County Chamber VOICE, and can be contacted at nashenhurst@thurstonchamber.com www.thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE March/April 2014 15
LEADERSHIP THURSTON COUNTY
Apply Now for the Leadership Thurston County Class of 2015
M
ake Leadership Thurston County part of your path to leadership! Applications are now being accepted for the Class of 2015. Leadership Thurston County participants are highly motivated and committed to being involved in a meaningful way in the community. The 10-month program begins in September 2014 and runs through June 2015. Each month, participants meet for day-long Challenge Days to learn about issues, build relationships and discover ways to get involved. The days are an energetic mix of classroom discussions with local leaders and site visits and activities to explore the community. The sessions are topic-focused and include Business & Economic Development,
“LTC offers an amazing opportunity to explore a broad spectrum of community issues, meet interesting people and develop friendships. The program is well organized, thoughtprovoking and inspirational. It provides the opportunity to develop partnerships that will help us all be more successful. Give the gift of attending LTC to yourself and your employees. You’ll be glad you did.” - Ann Freeman-Manzanares, Executive Director, Intercity Transit
Education, Government, Arts & Culture, Health & Human Services, Law & Justice and Environment. Class size is limited to 35 participants, and applicants must live or work in Thurston County. Participation is generally limited to one person from an organization. Additional participants may be allowed on a space-available basis where the participants represent
different aspects of the organization. Applicants are advised to apply early since applications are reviewed and the class generally filled on a first come, first served basis. Leadership Thurston County is a program of the Thurston County Chamber Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) educational, non-profit organization. It is tuition based, with tuition covering about onehalf the program cost. Tuition for the Class of 2015 is $1,800, and payment plans are available. Since 1994, over 500 leaders have graduated from Leadership Thurston County and are making a difference throughout our community. For an application or further information, go to www.LeadThurstonCounty.com, or contact Patti Grant at 360.357.8515/ email LTC@ThurstonChamber.com. ●
LTC participants played “Cluster Land,” developed by the Thurston EDC, during Business & Economic Development Day.
Above: Visiting area businesses is a highlight of Business Day. Here, the LTC group tours Ostrom's. 16 March/April 2014 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
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NEW! ADA/Braille Signage
Mike & Brenda Williams, Owners
BEST OF SOUTH SOUND
Ready for Shopping Bag Ban?
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Best of South Sound
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Wednesday, March 12, 11:30 a.m. Red Lion Hotel 2300 Evergreen Park Dr SW, Olympia
n July 1, 2014, the single-use plastic shopping bag will become a thing of the past in many parts of Thurston County. The cities of Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, and the County have all adopted identical bag bans. The language prohibits retailers from providing single-use plastic shopping bags to their customers. In addition, retailers that provide large paper bags must charge a minimum of five cents, to provide an incentive for customers to bring their own reusable bags. Thurston County Solid Waste is helping retailers and residents get ready. The first step was to establish a website as a centralized spot for information. Businesses can go to www.ThurstonSolidWaste.org/plastics to read the ordinance, get answers to frequently asked questions, and download signs that will help their customers. There is also a spot on the page to sign up for email updates to stay informed. The County will be hosting informational meetings for businesses in the affected jurisdictions. Retailers can come see samples of bags, ask questions, and share outreach ideas. The events are in April. Details will be posted on the website and sent in the email updates. A variety of methods will be used to notify the retail community. The County will mail a letter and informational flyer to businesses and an insert will be included with the Waste Connections commercial trash bills. The local Chambers of Commerce, as well as the retail and grocers associations are requested to provide information in their regular outreach to their members. Staff will also make site visits to as many businesses as possible. Businesses with questions can contact Loni Hanka, the Business Waste Reduction Coordinator for Thurston County Solid Waste at 360-867-2282. â&#x2014;?
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or the past decade the Olympian has recognized Thurston County businesses with the coveted Best of South Sound award. Readers vote on-line for their favorite business in over 80 categories, including favorites such as Best Place for a Martini, Best Bank, Best Real Estate Agent, Best Dentist and of course, Best Buffet. Vote online at www.theolympian.com to enter your favorites to win. The Thurston County Chamber and The Olympian are pleased to co-host the second-annual awards ceremony for Best of South Sound category winners. The awards ceremony will take place at the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Forum on March 12. We expect a full-house, so advance registration is encouraged. Forum includes lunch and the cost is $30 for general admission, $20 for prepaid Chamber members, and $25 for members at the door. Visit www.thurstonchamber.com and to make your reservation today, or 360.357.3362. â&#x2014;? Forum Sponsor
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Thurston County Chamber VOICE ď Ź March/April 2014 ď Źď&#x20AC; 19
Networking Events Morning Mixxer
march 4 - 7:30 a.m.
april 1 - 7:30 a.m.
1620 74th Ave SW, Tumwater
2011 Mottman Road SW, Olympia
Comfort Inn hosts march Mixxer
WSECU CENTER FOR CAREER SERVICES
Coffee and a delicious breakfast prepared by Elyse’s Catering awaits at the Comfort Inn at our March Morning Mixxer. Surprises are in store! You’ll also have a chance to win a free stay in a Spa Suite as well as other door prizes. A stay at the Comfort Inn includes free breakfast, 24 hour coffee service, WIFI, newspaper, indoor heated pool, hot tub and fitness center, as well as onsite laundry facility. Not only that, but they are pet friendly. ●
Our April Mixxer is hosted by South Puget Sound Community College. Come learn about the WSECU Center for Career Services while you enjoy coffee and breakfast treats. Learn why businesses are partnering with community colleges to create a strong workforce and vibrant community. ●
Morning Mixxer is the first Tuesday of each month, from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Locations vary. Includes coffee and pastries. Admission FREE.
Morning Mixxer Promotional Sponsors
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Join the Chamber for Business After Hours at Nicholson & Associates Insurance. They have an elegant evening planned - complete with delicious food, wine and networking.
Enter to win a Sony NSZ-GTI Wi-Fi-enabled 1080p Blu-ray disc player, featuring Google TV. Retail value is $399. Learn more about custom AV solutions for your business, including conference room AV, video conferencing, business automation and video security. ● Business After Hours Promotional Sponsors
When it comes to insurance there are endless options. If you’re on the hunt for personal insurance solutions, the agents at Nicholson & Associates Insurance, LLC can help you develop customized coverage. They are committed to easing you through the process of selecting the ideal personal insurance policies for your specialized needs. ●
Business After Hours is the third Thursday of each month, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Locations vary. Admission is FREE.
20 March/April 2014 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
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Promotional Products We offer a large selection of promotional gifts for your meetings, trade shows, product branding and events.
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Thurston County Chamber VOICE March/April 2014 21
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THURSTON GREEN BUSINESS
Green Businesses Recognized at April Forum
T
he recipients of the Thurston Green Business recognition program will be announced at the Chamber’s Annual Thurston Green Forum. The deadline for recognition at this event is
March 15th. Apply today! Now in its seventh year, the Thurston Green Business program has become one of the Chamber’s most popular programs; nearly 200 local organizations display a Thurston Green Business sticker in their window. Customers are learning to look for this logo and check the Chamber website for participants, and they often choose to shop with Green Businesses to support their efforts.
Forum - Wednesday, April 9 Wednesday, April 9, 11:30 a.m. Red Lion Hotel 2300 Evergreen Park Dr. SW Olympia while also reducing waste, are all good steps that benefit our environment. The cost savings that result from conservation boost the bottom-line. Visit www.thurstongreenbusiness.com and apply today. Forum includes lunch and is $30 for general admission, $20 for prepaid (online) Chamber members and $25 for members at the door. Reservations are encouraged. Visit thurstonchamber.com or call 360.357.3362 today! Forum Sponsor
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Businesses which take steps to be “green” save money while protecting and preserving resources. Saving energy and water,
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FOR DELIVERY THIS SUMMER
Capital Medical Center is kicking off a $1.2 million renovation of our Women’s Services unit to enhance our high quality care and provide the most comfort for our patients and their families. Upgrades are planned for our birthing suites, nursery, gynecological patient rooms and waiting room. The renovations will be worked on in phases over the next several months and are expected to be completed this summer. For more information about the Women’s Services renovation or to learn more about the full range of services offered at Capital Medical Center, go online to capitalmedical.com or call 360-754-5858.
3900 Capital Mall Dr. SW, Olympia • 360-754-5858 • 888-677-9757 • www.capitalmedical.com Capital Medical Center is partly owned by some of the physicians who serve our patients.
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Thurston County Chamber VOICE March/April 2014 23
PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427
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