OCTOBER 2018
THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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Custom Source Woodworking A Business Philosophy to Build Partners, Not Employees
Vote like your community depends on it A Guide to the Local Elections, Resolutions & Initiatives That Affect You
B U I L D I N G C OMMU N IT Y PR O S PE R IT Y F O R OV E R 1 4 0 Y E A R S
Vote – Your Community Depends On It By David Schaffert, Thurston Chamber President/CEO PUBLISHER
In this month’s issue of the VOICE
Only 34 percent of Thurston County
Chamber of Commerce
Magazine, we focus on the upcoming
registered voters voted in the 2017
EDITORIAL
election, specifically, spotlighting the
general election, which means that
Thurston County Commission race
less than 25 percent of Thurston
and several ballot measures.
County’s citizens voted. The August
Thurston County
Editor: David Schaffert Phone: (360) 357-3362 Email: dschaffert@thurstonchamber.com
CONTRIBUTORS David Schaffert
2018 primary was slightly higher. We believe that it is those who
Please, do not opt out of having your
Natasha Ashenhurst
show up who ultimately influence
opinions and values be part of not
ADVERTISING
public policy. Voting, too, is a public
just an election process but also
policy engagement opportunity. It
the public process by which those
allows the full spectrum of thought,
elected to represent us operate in.
Doug Mah Christina Butcher
Sales and Marketing: Krystal Barkus Blake Knoblauch Aaron Bernhard Marny Bright Phone: (360) 357-3362
opinion, background, life experience
Email: info@thurstonchamber.com
to determine an electoral outcome.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
It provides a pulse of what the
Phone: (360) 357-3362
community values at a point in time
v. We will provide a first-hand
and provides solid direction to those
opportunity for the community to
Mosaic Marketing Studio
who are elected or are in a decision
meet all those running for elected
COVER ART
making position. Voting is a melting
office and representatives of ballot
pot that produces an answer to a
measures at the upcoming “Meet the
Source Woodworking
question. However, the electoral
Candidates” Forum on October 10.
PRINTING
system stops working when people
We hope to see you there.
Email: info@thurstonchamber.com
DESIGN
Martin Way Senior Center, Photo courtesy of Custom
Print NW
Every single vote matters.
opt out.
CONTACT THE CHAMBER PO Box 1427 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 Phone: (360) 357-3362 Email: info@thurstonchamber.com Website: thurstonchamber.com
COPYRIGHT All material appearing in the VOICE Magazine is copyright unless otherwise stated or it may rest with the provider of the supplied material. The VOICE Magazine takes all care to ensure information is correct at time of printing, but the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for the accuracy of any information contained in the text or advertisements.
THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY INVESTORS DIAMOND INVESTORS: America's Credit Union - Lacey Capital Medical Center FORMA Construction Company Little Creek Casino & Resort Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel Port of Olympia Saint Martin's University TwinStar Credit Union Washington Business Bank
PLATINUM INVESTORS Greene Realty Group Heritage Bank - Olympia
L & E Bottling Company, Inc. Mills & Mills Funeral Home Morningside Olympia Federal Savings Olympia Orthopaedic Associates Phillips Burgess, PLLC Providence St. Peter Hospital Puget Sound Energy South Puget Sound Community College
GOLD INVESTORS American Workforce Group C.P.C. Landscape, LLC Cabinets by Trivonna Charter College Community Youth Services Creative Office
Elite Cleaning of Washington, Inc. GHB Insurance, Inc. Grays Harbor Fair & Tourism Great Wolf Lodge Hometown Property Management, Inc. Hooper Financial Services Loanstar Home Lending Nisqually Red Wind Casino Olympia Furniture Company Pardiman Productions Radia, Inc., PS SCJ Alliance The Rants Group Venables Pest Management Wells Fargo Community Bank
EXPERIENCE THE CAPITAL ADVANTAGE
Enhanced Digital Mammography Services capitalmedical.com
Capital Medical Center is partly owned by some of the physicians who serve our patients.
©2018 BCI
October 2018
CONTENT & CALENDAR
Every month, the Thurston County Chamber offers several networking events, forums and workshops to the community. Here are some highlights you won't want to miss.
In This Issue...
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Morning Mixxer at The Rants Group
Custom Source Woodworking
Please join our host, The Rants Group, on Tuesday, October 2 at 7:30 a.m. for the Thurston Chamber’s Morning Mixxer. The Rants Group will provide breakfast treats, our sponsor L&E Bottling will host the coffee bar and
CEO Joe Wadsworth explains his company's custom business philosophy.
you can enjoy a morning of networking. Morning Mixxer is free to attend. Where: The Rants Group, 724 Columbia St. NW #140, Olympia, WA 98501.
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Thurston Young Professionals After Hours
Thurston Voter's Guide
Join Thurston Young Professionals on Thursday, October 4 at 5:30 p.m.
Get informed on the issues and what's at stake in local elections this November.
at The Schmidt House. Enjoy a selection of beverages and snacks. Join us and meet with other Young Professionals and expand your network. Where: The Schmidt House, 330 Schmidt Place SW, Olympia, WA 98501.
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October Forum: Meet the Candidates
Meet The Candidates Incumbent County Commissioner Bud Blake, and challenger, Tye Menser draw distinctions in Q&A.
Join the Thurston County Chamber Wednesday, October 10, 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a Candidates Reception & Meet the Candidates Forum. This event will feature the County Commissioner race candidates – incumbent Bud Blake and challenger Tye Menser – a pivotal race with regional significance. Doug Mah, the Thurston
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Chamber's Director of Public Policy, will moderate the discussion. Where: Hotel RL Olympia, 2300 Evergreen Park Drive SW, Olympia, WA 98502 $25 for prepaid Chamber members, and $30 for members at the door.
Congratulations LTC Class of 2019
Thurston County Chamber Membership Event
Leadership Thurston County (LTC) turns the tassels over on the Class of 2019.
What: Forum includes lunch, and the cost is $35 for general admission,
For two and a half days, over 100 volunteers will work against the clock and against
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each other in a fun, competitive drive to sign up new Chamber members and create a greater community awareness of the important role of the Chamber. The Membership
Red Wind, Green Team
Event will kick off on October 16 and conclude on October 18 with a Business After
Nisqually Red Wind Casino's Green Team honored as a Thurston Green Business.
Hours celebration at 5:21 p.m. at Hilton Garden Inn Olympia. For more information on how you can be involved, call the Thurston County Chamber at 360.357.3362. Where: Hilton Garden Inn, 2101 Henderson Park Lane SE, Olympia, WA 98501.
Thank you Sponsors!
Business After Hours at Hilton Garden Inn Olympia Join the Thurston County Chamber on Thursday, October 18, at 5:21 p.m. for a special Business After Hours celebration at Hilton Garden Inn Olympia. Business After Hours is a free networking event. Hosts provide light appetizers and beverages, games and raffles. This is a great chance to learn about a local organization and expand your network. Where: Hilton Garden Inn, 2101 Henderson Park Lane SE, Olympia, WA 98501.
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Revel Lacey, Martin Way Senior Living. Photo courtesy of Custom Source Woodworking.
Building Partners, Not Employees Custom Source Woodworking explains the pillars of its business philosophy. By Christina Butcher
I
magine standing inside a 37,500 square-foot warehouse across from Olympia Regional Airport. Sawdust covers the work floor under your feet, muffling the sound of your footsteps as you walk past heavy machinery and wood stacked floor-to-ceiling. You pass a pallet of marble as you walk from one end of the work floor to the other, past woodworkers and engineers huddled over carefully-laid, custom furniture plans. Chances are, you’re standing in the middle of Custom Source Woodworking in Olympia. Custom Source Woodworking has been in
can be more profitable as an industry if
understanding of the company, it
business in the South Sound since 2007,
we manage things properly. I also want
remains one of the pillars of his business
and with over a decade of first-hand
to be the best business woodworkers can
philosophy.
experience – including crushing mishaps
work at. I want to share the wealth with
and notable achievements alike - it’s
our employees and have them feel the
“One of the main things I wanted to do at
finally ready to make its mark on the
benefits.”
CSW was treat my employees differently –
woodwork industry.
better – than how typical (woodworking) Wadsworth has been championing for
shops treated them,” said Wadsworth.
“I want to show people how things can
increased pay for woodworkers since
“We (woodworkers) were always treated
be done,” said Joe Wadsworth, majority
he started Custom Source Woodworking
like we were replaceable, and companies
owner and chief executive officer (CEO)
in June 2007. Along with increasing
in this industry can’t pay livable wages
at Custom Source Woodworking. “We
efficiency and a strong financial
because profits are so low. I knew things
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could be done a lot better.” So, Wadsworth threw caution to the wind and started CSW in nearby Lacey, Washington state. He hired a single employee and secured a 10,000 squarefoot warehouse to get the business on its feet. “I saw a niche in the market and I thought, ‘I can do that,’” said Wadsworth. “I knew that even if things didn’t work, I could rebuild. I wasn’t afraid to start the business.” Initially, CSW specialized in custombuilt cabinets, reception desks and work stations, before adding a finishing department in 2011 and millwork department in 2012. The business moved to its current location in Olympia in 2009. There, Wadsworth continues his efforts to treat employees as partners. He implements monthly meetings in which all employees (43 in total) gather to go
“I want to show people how things can be done,” said Joe Wadsworth, majority owner and chief executive officer (CEO) at Custom Source Woodworking. “We can be more profitable as an industry if we manage things properly. I also want to be the best business woodworkers can work at. I want to share the wealth with our employees and have them feel the benefits.” Photo by Natasha Ashenhurst.
over the state of the business, financial statements and project management. “I
on New Year’s Day (2016) and told myself
to increase CSW’s efficiency by 33%. “I
wanted to invite workers to be partners in
I had to figure out what was going on … I
learned a lot about our financials, cash
our company,” Wadsworth said. “I wanted
had to find out why our company was not
management, and how to properly run a
to find a way to get them interested in
profitable.”
business. It made a big change in our cash
business. But, it wasn’t until two years
flow,” said Wadsworth.
ago that I really made a big step toward
Wadsworth forced himself to leave
that. We started doing “open book
the work floor that winter to focus on
“A lot of small businesses make the
management, teaching employees how to
CSW’s finances full-time. “I found out
mistake of outsourcing their financials.
read our financial statements.”
we were a ship with a thousand holes,”
They only want to do what they’re good at
he explained. “We’d suffered through
… but understanding your financials is the
At the end of each meeting, the floor
every kind of financial mishap we could
most important aspect of your business.”
is opened to employees to share ideas.
– mismanagement, theft, debt – it was a
“This helps us zero in on unnecessary
financial mess.”
CSW’s five co-owners, Belen Carrillo, Steve
expenses,” Wadsworth said. “We focus on eliminating unnecessary variables.”
Glabe, John Fetters, Louis Velasquez and Around the same time, CSW was hit with
Wadsworth, are also intent on increasing
Ransomware, crippling the company for
sales by 10% each year. The company’s
In the same vein, Wadsworth hopes to
three days until its owners agreed to pay
long-term goals include expansion into
implement profit sharing for employees
a bitcoin ransom. “It shut us down – no
other industries parallel to woodworking,
within the next six months. His insistence
one could work, including our engineers,
including metal and upholstery shops.
on financial readiness – both for the
administrators, everyone. It was terrible.
company and for his employees - comes
Since then, we’ve been working on
“But, once I can hand profit sharing
after a long string of financial crises.
strengthening our IT security.”
checks to my employee, I’ll consider this business a success. Then, we can build
“The first two years in business, I worked
Wadsworth also decided to take a “Profit
other benefits into the company while
every day,” said Wadsworth. “We were
Mastery” financial education course with
growing our reputation as a great place to
doubling in size every year in sales, but
Small Business Administration (SBA).
work.”
we weren’t making any money. I woke up
After completing the course, he was able
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Proposition 1 asks taxpayers to expand the service area, route frequency and services of Intercity Transit with a sales tax increase.
Transit & Trails, Pools & Parks on November Ballot
Intercity Transit Proposition 1 – What You Need to Know
O
n November 6, Intercity Transit (IT) will ask voters to approve a sales tax increase to maintain, improve and expand public transportation services. The Thurston Chamber board supports the resolution. The Chamber asked IT to provide details on what our community stands to gain, or lose,
depending on the fate of the tax measure. The following provides a summary of responses from Intercity Transit’s General Manager, Ann Freeman-Manzanares. Q. What happens if the tax measure
funding was eliminated from the federal
to be for us to balance our budget. If the
passes? What happens if it fails?
budget for four years and only a small
ballot measure does not pass, we’ll need to
A. If approved, IT will provide service
portion was restored starting in 2016. That
cut service by 15% in 2019. If we wait until
into new areas, increase frequency and
changed our entire financial model. The
2020, we’ll need to cut service by 24%.
operating hours for local and commuter
reality is we cannot afford to replace buses
bus services, and expand specialized
with local dollars. Without buses, we cannot
Q. What convinced IT to ask for 4 tenths
transportation services for seniors and those
provide service. Sales tax is our primary
of 1% (4 cents on a $10 purchase) versus
living with disabilities. If it fails, service will
source of revenue. We receive no property,
a smaller amount?
need to be cut by 15% to balance our budget.
motor vehicle excise or gas tax. If we want
A. Starting in 2016, we initiated a public
to maintain service or expand service our
engagement process to have the community
Q. Why are you asking for a sales tax
option is sales tax. IT is projected to have
define the future of public transportation.
increase and why are you asking now?
a budget shortfall by 2022. The longer we
We received over 10,000 comments from
A. A significant source of our capital
wait to cut service, the steeper the cuts need
some 5,000 people including riders,
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potential riders and non-riders. Based
increase. People are asking us to expand
A. Our proposal includes the following
on that information, we presented the
service, including adding new lines to
improvements, which are described on our
community a list of service enhancements
growing employment centers in N.E. Lacey,
website:
that could fulfill those goals. We also asked
South Tumwater and Yelm, as well as
people to identify a preferred scenario
speeding service to existing employment and
1. Extended Span of Service
among three options: service cuts; status
service destinations.
2. Improved Frequency
which included the implementation of
As a public agency, it’s our job to provide
3. Service to Growing Neighborhoods and Employment Centers
the community defined enhancements.
the level of service our community wants
4. Maintain On-Time Performance
Through independent polling, we discovered
and is willing to pay for. There was a clear
5. Enhanced Capital Facilities
almost 83% want transformational change
recognition of the need to address our
6. Bus Rapid Transit
and more than two-thirds are willing to pay
growing population and connect people
7. Night Owl Service
for those enhancements with the four tenths
to jobs, schools, healthcare, services and
8. Enhanced Commuter Service
of 1% sales tax increase.
shopping. Community members told us
9. Fare-Collection Efficiencies
quo system; or transformational change,
what they wanted. It’s our duty to put the In short, people don’t want us to cut service.
Q. Where should people go to get more
measure forward to the voters.
information?
And they’re not satisfied with the same level of service we have today, which is all
Q. What system enhancements will be
A. Please visit https://www.intercitytransit.
we could manage with a smaller sales tax
made if it passes?
com/ITprop1 for more information.
The City of Lacey’s Metropolitan Park District
I
n 2015, the City of Lacey began gathering public input to provide direction for the update of its Parks Comprehensive Plan (Plan). The Plan guides future recreational facilities, park improvements, and maintenance needs for Lacey’s overall park system. Following a 2-year, public-input process and
endorsement by the Parks Board and Planning Commission, the Lacey City Council adopted the updated Plan on September 14, 2017. The Plan outlines the following future
Authorize the Metropolitan Park District's
valuation, the Lacey City Council authorized
opportunities and challenges for the
governing board to set the tax rate at
Proposition 1 at a levy rate of $0.47 per
Parks and Recreation Department:
$0.47 per $1,000 assessed home value.
$1,000 of assessed property value. The
• •
•
Provide adequate facilities to keep up
increase would cost City of Lacey property
with growth.
Quick Facts
owners $11.75/month per household (not
Move from a predominately “property
•
The City of Lacey's population has
individual), based on $0.47 per $1,000 on a
increased 62 percent since 2002.
house with an assessed value of $300,000.
acquisition era” to a “park improvement and development phase.” •
•
of park land.
Q. What is the Difference Between a Parks
65 percent of the City's park land
Bond and a Metropolitan Park District?
is undeveloped.
A. A bond is for specific acquisition and
The last time Lacey had a park measure
development projects and has a defined
Create a Lacey Metropolitan Park District
on the ballot was 16 years ago. (Lacey
dollar amount. A Metropolitan Park
to provide ongoing funding to acquire,
voters approved a Parks Bond Issue
District provides ongoing funding for park
maintain, operate, and improve parks,
for $9,985,000 in 2002.)
improvements, amenities, and operations.
Solidify a future funding strategy. •
Prop 1 is a measure on the November 6, 2018, ballot asking Lacey voters to: •
The City owns nearly 1,200 acres
•
trails, recreational facilities & programs. • •
Establish the Metropolitan Park District’s
Q. What is the Cost to Lacey Residents
Q. When Will Residents Decide?
boundaries as the Lacey city limits.
(homeowners)?
A. November 6, 2018, Lacey residents
Designate the Lacey City Council as
A. Property Tax: Although state law
will have the opportunity to vote on the
the Metropolitan Park District's
authorizes an established MPD to levy a
formation of a Metropolitan Park District.
governing board.
maximum of $0.75 per $1,000 assessed
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Tumwater Falls Park. Photo courtesy of the Olympia Tumwater Foundation.
Tumwater's Metropolitan Parks District Proposition: Funding for Parks & Recreation Programs Going to Ballot
T
he Tumwater City Council has proposed that a Metropolitan Park District be formed to fund improved parks facilities and recreation programs in Tumwater. While a legally separate entity, the District would have the same boundaries as the City and be governed by the City Council. The Proposition
will be on the November 6, 2018 General Election ballot and requires a simple majority for approval. Proposition No. 1, if approved, would fund these priorities:
With funding from a Metropolitan Parks District, the City would
1.
Parks and playgrounds maintenance and safety;
spend $1.5 million annually for our parks, playgrounds, and trails
2.
New neighborhood parks, playgrounds, and restrooms;
improvements in the first five years. This will extend the useful life
3.
Community Center with meeting and event space, senior
of our most used parks and playgrounds, address safety and security
services, indoor sports courts, and land for a future public
issues, invest in underserved neighborhoods, improve energy
swimming pool; 4.
Trail expansion along the Deschutes River Valley; and
5.
Community arts and cultural heritage programs, historic properties, recreation programs, and a community garden.
efficiency, and preserve new open spaces. The City has invested in parks, trails, and open spaces over the years, but there are no dedicated revenue sources to maintain and improve those properties.
Proposition 1 is a ballot measure asking the voters of the City of
Why Parks? Why now?
Tumwater to consider forming a Metropolitan Park District that
Over the years, City Council and staff have taken a number of cost-
would collect property tax to maintain, improve, and build parks,
savings actions to streamline and increase operational efficiency
trails and recreation programs.
as revenues have declined for parks and recreation programs and facilities.
Approval of this measure would provide dedicated and sustainable funding for Tumwater’s Parks and Recreation programs and facilities.
Tumwater City Council unanimously voted to include the
In addition, it would support construction of a new Community
Metropolitan Park District measure on the November general election
Center with space for a future public swimming pool, and enhance
ballot to provide adequate funding to maintain, improve and build
cultural heritage, public arts, and recreation programs.
parks, playgrounds and trails.
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Meet the Candidates for Thurston County Commissioner: Bud Blake & Tye Menser By Doug Mah, Doug Mah & Associates and Thurston Chamber's Public Policy Division Director
T
his November, Thurston County voters will elect a County Commissioner. Voters will choose between incumbent Bud Blake or challenger Tye Menser (District 3). Both candidates bring a unique set of experiences and perspectives to job of County Commissioner. The two candidates were asked to answer three questions regarding economic development and the role of a County Commissioner in growing the local economy. Their written responses help serve as a
The three-member county commission
include electing local state legislators,
primer for the October Forum where the
is both a local government and a
members of congress, and most of the
candidates will answer questions and
subdivision of state government. Its
county officials including a county
articulate why they are the best person to
primary responsibility is serving as the
commissioner. Make sure you are
be your next County Commissioner.
general - purpose local government
registered to vote by checking your
and legislative authority outside of city
status at: https://weiapplets.sos.wa.gov/
Commissioners are elected by district.
limits. Many county responsibilities
myvote/#/login.
The primary election was limited to only
are mandated by state law; others
those registered to vote within District
are permitted by state law, allowing
The Thurston County Chamber and
3. Bud Blake and Tye Menser prevailed
for considerable local discretion. The
its Public Policy Division encourage all
in the primary as the top-two vote
commission is responsible for county
voters to gain a better understanding
getters, defeating two other candidates,
policies relating to public safety and
of the Thurston County Commission,
and moved to the general election. The
health, community development, human
the role of commissioners, and their
general election is county wide. All
services, environmental protection, solid
impact on the local economy. Public
registered voters in Thurston County
waste, county finance, transportation,
policy requires participation. The easiest
can vote in the County Commissioner
parks and recreation, and other state
and most important step is voting. We
race, regardless of district. County
directed duties.
encourage you to vote in this November’s
commissioners traditionally have been
general election.
partisan and Commissioners are full time
The general election will be held on
employees of the County.
November 6, 2018. The 2018 election will
thurstonchamber.com
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360.456.4999
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Bud Blake question
Tye Menser
T
he new Thurston County Strategic Plan (updated for 2019/2020) articulates a desired future state where, "People are economically secure. The Thurston economy is diversified and resilient, supports living wages, and creates equitable opportunities for economic prosperity at all levels and stages of career development. What do you see as the primary barrier(s) to achieving this future state and what will you do as county commissioner to address this/these barrier(s)?
ONE
Bud Blake: "A number of social determinants create barriers
Tye Menser: "A primary barrier to economic security in
that plague young adults as they transition to adulthood.
Thurston County right now is the instability in our housing
The long-term goal of a healthy, diverse and equitable
market. With a growing homeless population --- and
economy depends on our commitment to raising children
more than a third of our citizens rent-burdened and at
who are physically and emotionally healthy, well-educated,
risk of losing their housing --- people are struggling, and
and prepared to be successful workers, entrepreneurs,
local businesses and tax revenues are adversely affected.
and innovators. Kids who grow up healthy will be far less
Thurston County needs a larger housing supply across the
vulnerable to addiction, and less likely to ever be homeless –
entire market, and a greater proportion of affordable units.
both of which are detrimental of any community’s economic
As a Commissioner, I will bring regional leadership to this
progress. Healthy, successful young adults are also more
issue, and work hand-in-hand with local jurisdictions and
likely to raise the next generation of successful young people.
the private and non-profit sectors to incentivize new housing
That’s why I continue to invest in programs such as Nurse-
projects, and find creative ways to shelter our homeless.
Family Partnership, early childhood education, before
This is our first challenge in creating enduring economic
and after school programs, and great schools are vital.
prosperity in Thurston County."
The best way to attract great employers is to create a healthy community. And the best way to create a healthy community is to invest in our infants and children." thurstonchamber.com
(continued on page 17) Thurston County Chamber VOICE
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We’ll forge a financial course built on time & trust. INVESTMENTS
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FINANCIAL PLANNING
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INSURANCE
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Help shape the way our Port looks, feels and functions in the future The Port has been creating economic opportunity in Thurston County for nearly a century. Over time, we’ve also developed some of our community’s most prized community spaces and places and increased our role as an environmental steward. Now we’re looking to the future once again, and we want you to help map it out.
So, WHAT’S NEXT? Share your ideas and priorities at www.portolympia2050.org
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question
TWO
T
he County’s updated Strategic Plan identifies coordinating “County investments and plans to promote economic growth…” as a short-term strategy to “proactively shape a strong, diverse economy that provides equitable access to opportunity.” In your opinion, how
important is this strategy and what changes would you make as county commissioner to better coordinate and plan for economic growth?
Bud Blake: "The changes we need are underway: We are
Tye Menser: "County government can play an important role in
working in partnership with the Chehalis, Squaxin and
promoting economic growth and ensuring equitable access to
Nisqually tribes, cities and jurisdictions to create a regional
opportunity. We know that economic development will thrive
economy that attracts and creates new jobs, equitable growth,
where a community is healthy and well-balanced. Thurston
and environmental excellence. The critical factor for success is
County is projected to grow by 40% in the next 20 years, so the
human relationships – that is, building trust and mutual respect
opportunities for economic development will be plentiful.
and keeping everyone engaged in this common purpose.
But local governments must ensure their budgets are in healthy
Change will not and should not happen overnight. We need
shape, that sustainable economic practices are being promoted
steady, gradual progress that takes into account the need for
so that our local businesses can prosper well into the future,
predictability, and the challenges of adaptation to changing
and that we appropriately address the inter-related issues of
conditions, technologies, and federal and state policies.
crime, housing, and mental health, so that Thurston County
We also need to consider bold ideas that might lead to a
remains a desirable place to do business.
signature regional industry. For instance, the work of the tribes,
At the same time, we must be mindful of how we grow, because
our state government, and scholars at The Evergreen State
even as our local economy has performed well overall recently,
College provide a wealth of expertise that could make Thurston
poverty among households with children has spiked over the
County a national center of research and development for
last 2+ years. We can't leave anyone behind."
environmentally beneficial technologies and practices."
question
three
T
he Thurston Community Economic Alliance’s Strategic Plan includes “Target Industry Growth and Innovation” and a vision to “support and stimulate growth in empirically-defined “clean and green” target industries that provide critical jobs, generate significant taxable revenue and attract
new investment”. What skills and experiences would you bring to this endeavor and what leadership role would like to play in achieving this vision?
Bud Blake: "My public service skills were developed
Tye Menser: "I have had a 21-year career as an attorney, with
during a 25-year military career. The military is a learning
14 of those years spent in the private sector. I also spent 7
organization, focused on the imperative to learn from its own
years working in rural communities in Alaska, so I understand
actions and improve its performance. “Planning, process and
the challenges of growing a business in a rural or remote
outcomes” are the bywords of military organization, and there
area, and the important role government plays in terms of
is clear accountability for success, no matter how complex the
infrastructure and services. I have always supported a “clean
challenge. Teamwork is at the heart of all of this.
and green” approach to any activity, including commercial/
My military career developed skills, values and habits of mind
industrial activities. The County can assist in this type of
that are well suited to the challenge of leadership for Thurston
economic development by providing tax incentives for
County. In this community, success in one area is inextricably
businesses that face unreasonable market obstacles. With its
connected to success in others. For our economy to thrive, we
proximity to the state capital, we can market Thurston County
have to get ahead of a growing crisis of homelessness, plan for
as an “innovation center” and showcase new technologies
population growth, reform and improve our criminal justice
to legislators from around the state. Another strategy is to
system, invest in infrastructure, and protect our natural
work with neighboring jurisdictions on proposals for large,
resources – all while holding ourselves accountable for job
regional projects to bring in large numbers of new, nearby
creation, and attracting industries that generate tax revenue."
jobs accessible to our residents."
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
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1802 Black Lake Blvd SW #301 Olympia, WA 98512 Find us in the “Blue Building!”
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AUTO | HOME | BUSINESS | LIFE 18 • October 2018
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Thurston County Chamber VOICE
thurstonchamber.com
Leadership Thurston County (LTC) Class of 2019. Photo courtesy of the Thurston County Chamber Foundation.
Congratulations to Leadership Thurston County Class of 2019 By Natasha Ashenhurst
On September 6, Leadership Thurston County kicked off the 25th class at the annual Opening Retreat. The Class of 2019 joined together to start their 10-month journey of community connections, involvement exploration, and learning about current issues. LTC is a community immersion based adult leadership program of the Thurston County Chamber Foundation. Upon graduation in June, the current class of 40 will bring the total number of informed, engaged, and connected alumni to an astounding 707 community leaders. Stay tuned for information about the 25th Class Celebration honoring all of our alumni scheduled for June 12, 2019.
2019 Leadership Thurston County (LTC) Graduates: Heather Antanaitis, Family Education & Support Services
Katie Gerard, Thurston County
Mike Opitz, The Wave Carwash
Thera Black, SCJ Alliance
Jesse Gleason, Chehalis Tribe
Nate Peters, Saint Martin's University
Conley Booth, Port of Olympia
Trish Gregory, Family Support Center of South Sound
Chris Quimby, Senior Services for South Sound
Jeff Bowe, Experience Olympia & Beyond
Erik Hansen, Office of Financial Management
Michael Brouillette, Balanced Counseling and Hypnosis Center
Lance Inman, City of Tumwater
Chad Carpenter, Washington Center for the Performing Arts
Blake Knoblauch, Thurston County Chamber of Commerce
Krosbie Carter, Thurston Thrives Cailen Cecil Wevodau, Thurston County Prosecutor's Office Tami Collins, Tumwater School District Karen Cordero, Adult Family Home Council Ryan Cox, Lacey Fire District #3 Alena Dicke, South Puget Sound Community College
thurstonchamber.com
Alan Kirshner, TwinStar Credit Union
Danielle Rants, The Rants Group Lauren Robbins, Pacific Mountain WDC Michael Shupe, Capitol City Press Morgan Sohl, Timberland Regional Library Thomas Van Nuys, Intercity Transit
Mike Leonard, United Way of Thurston County
Jason Vatne, Columbia Bank
Joanne Lind, LOTT Clean Water Alliance
Nichole Wachtman, Evergreen Financial Services
Cathy McKenney, Fairchild Record Search
Diane Whaley, City of Olympia
Sokha Meas Colbo, Thomas Architecture Studios
DeAndra Williams, American Workforce Group
Sandy Mugartegui, Department of Labor & Industries
Ashley Worth, South Sound Bank
Daryl Murrow, Daryl Murrow Coaching
Joe Wolfe, City of Yelm Theresa Wu, Capital Medical Center
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
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The right fit for your business. One size never fits all. At TwinStar, you’ll have several business accounts and services to choose from, and together we’ll find the right accounts and cash management tools to improve your bottom line.
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Call me to learn how. Alexis Miller
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TwinStarCU.com/business
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20 • October 2018
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Thurston County Chamber VOICE
thurstonchamber.com
THURSTON GREEN BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Nisqually Red Wind Casino's Green Team – (L to R) David Horn, Diane Hanson, Patti Rigby & LeRoy WhiteMountain. Photo courtesy of Nisqually Red Wind Casino.
Spotlight on Nisqually Red Wind Casino's Green Team By Natasha Ashenhurst Energy efficient lighting in the parking
meets twice a month. They produce a
made consistently over time can have a
garage. Environmentally friendly cleaning
monthly newsletter (printed on recycled
significant impact.
supplies in housekeeping. Biodegradable
paper) allowing them to share ideas and
packing peanuts in the gift shop. Recycled
new programs. Each year, the group picks
“Our team won’t give up. We keep working
ink cartridges in marketing. A nearly
quarterly themes, creating a focal point for
together to move our ideas forward until
paperless purchase ordering system. These
the upcoming year’s efforts. Last year it was
they become a reality,” said Diane, another
are just a few items from a list of last year’s
the four elements, Earth, Wind, Air, and Fire.
Green Team member.
Red Wind Casino’s Green Team, an eight
“We get new ideas, and we do everything we
One of their most ambitious projects is on
member team established in 2008 to lower
can to implement that idea,” said Patti Rigby,
track to roll out close to Thanksgiving — a
the organization’s environmental footprint
one of the group’s leaders. “Recently a team
food rescue and recovery program. The first
and sustainability efforts.
member noticed that we were going through
part of the plan was to reduce the amount
too many plastic straws. The team talked
of leftover food through improved planning
Every April, Thurston Green Business
and went to the manager of the department
and buying, but there was still a lot of
celebrates area businesses and
and asked if there was a way to reduce straw
leftovers, so then the group worked out a
organizations that practice sustainability.
use. Today, they no longer offer straws to
system to get that food to needy residents in
At the annual recognition celebration,
customers but provide one if requested. It is
our community. The group is working with
Thurston Green honors a small, medium
an easy fix; you have to start small and work
kitchen managers to package and deliver
and large business with the Green
together to come up with solutions.”
high-quality leftover meals to their local
accomplishments compiled by Nisqually
Business of the Year award. According
food bank program, which will provide the
to the committee, Nisqually Red Wind
Over the past eight years, the group has
Casino consistently has an outstanding
successfully lobbied to have employee
meals to area low-income seniors.
application full of innovative activities they
reviews change from a 12-page printed
What motivates the team and the
implemented over the previous 12 months.
document to digital instead. They worked
organization?
A notable force at this organization — the
with purchasing to buy pens made from
committee believes — is the existence of a
recycled plastic, and they dramatically
“We want to lessen our footprint and
Green Team that consistently pushes the
increased the number of recycling bins
preserve the environment for future
casino’s green efforts forward. We caught
throughout the Casino while working with
generations,” said Patti. “The support of this
up with the Green Team in September to
employees on best practices – remove that
program comes from the top down, but it
learn more.
lid before you recycle the water bottle.
takes everyone, from the general manager to the folks working in the kitchen to make
Nisqually Red Wind Casino’s Green Team thurstonchamber.com
The lesson learned is that small changes
this happen.”
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
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It’s Coming! 2018 Event Chairs
Event 2018 Membership
For 3 days in October, hundreds of volunteers will work against the clock, and each other, to sign up new Chamber members and create a greater Thurston County Chamber!
Drew Phillips FORMA Construction
Melanie Matthews Physicians of Southwest Washington
Tim Stokes South Puget Sound Community College
Ron Bruchet GHB Insurance
Len Faucher Port of Olympia
Kim Steepy TwinStar Credit Union
Michelle Wickett Axia Home Loans
Jaron Banks Russell Chiropractic
Jim Greene Greene Realty Group, LLC
October 16-18, 2018
Ken & Julie Brogan Commercial Property Services, LLC EVENT SPONSOR
Is there Is anan elephant elephant Is there elephant in your office? in your in office? office?
Workplace conflict, lack of Workplace Workplace conflict, conflict, lack of lack communication ofcommunication communication andand and incivility are common in many organizations, incivility incivility are common are common in many in many organizations, organizations, but,but, but, too often, often, ignored or too often, too ignored ignored or avoided. or avoided. avoided. The Dispute Dispute Resolution Center of The Dispute The Resolution Resolution Center Center of Thurston ofThurston Thurston County provides a variety of resources totohelp County County provides provides a variety a variety of resources of resources to help help businesses and organizations resolve conflict, businesses businesses and organizations and organizations resolve resolve conflict, conflict, prevent conflict and improve communication: prevent prevent conflict conflict and improve and improve communication: communication: Workplace Mediation Workplace Workplace Mediation Mediation Group Facilitation Group Group Facilitation Facilitation Customized Training Customized Customized Training Training
Please join us for a special Breakfast Workshop Please Please join us join forusa for special a special Breakfast Breakfast Workshop Workshop
Prevent and Resolve Prevent Prevent andand Resolve Resolve
Civic Harmony Starts Here CivicCivic Harmony Harmony Starts Starts Here Here Contact us to explore how the DRC can serve your needs:
Contact Contact us to explore us to explore how MediateThurston.org the how DRC thecan DRC serve can your serveneeds: your needs: (360) 956-1155 • info@mediatethurston.org MediateThurston.org MediateThurston.org (360) 956-1155 (360) 956-1155 • info@mediatethurston.org • info@mediatethurston.org
22 • October 2018
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Thurston County Chamber VOICE
Workplace Conflict Workplace Workplace Conflict Conflict
Wednesday, October 24th 8:00 – 9:30 a.m. SPSCC Lacey Campus Cost: Wednesday, Wednesday, October October 24th 24th 8:00•– 8:00 9:30 –$35 a.m. 9:30 a.m. Register: MediateThurston.org/WorkplaceConflict SPSCC SPSCC LaceyLacey Campus Campus • Cost: • Cost: $35 $35 Register: Register: MediateThurston.org/WorkplaceConflict MediateThurston.org/WorkplaceConflict
thurstonchamber.com
Chamber Board Tours and Talks with Tumwater Businesses
CHAMBER OUTREACH
On Thursday, September 13, the Thurston Chamber Board held a work session which included visiting four Tumwater businesses: Custom Source Woodworking, Cardinal Glass, Ice Chips and Alaffia. The four hour tour ended with a discussion and reception at Matchless Brewing at Deschutes Landing in Tumwater.
Custom Source Woodworking
Cardinal Glass
With its beginnings in a 1,000-
Cardinal Glass Industries
sq. foot garage, Custom Source
is a management-owned
Woodworking has grown to a
S-Corporation leading the
37,000-sq. foot facility, over the
industry in the development
course of its 10 year. They have
of residential glass for
expanded from serving the
windows and doors. They
local community to providing
have grown to more than
high-end custom woodwork all over the United States.
6,000 employees located at 37 manufacturing locations around the United States with two in Washington.
Ice Chips Candy LLC Ice Chips is a privately held company in Tumwater. Ice Chips was founded in Yelm in 2012 by Bev Vines-Haines and Charlotte Clary or more commonly known as the two Grannies. Their growth continues in their Tumwater Location and employs a staff of 36. Alaffia Alaffia is a body care company founded under the principles of fair trade. Olowo-n’djo Tchala and Prairie Rose Hyde founded Alaffia and launched one of the most successful fair trade body care organizations in the natural products industry. Shea butter is a natural resource that Alaffia uses to support and launch independent—women operated—businesses in West Africa. In September, Alaffia was named the winner of the 2018 U.S. Secretary of State’s Award for Corporate Excellence.
thurstonchamber.com
FIND OUT MORE AT
wabizbank.com VOTED BEST BANK IN THE SOUTH SOUND
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
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PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427