OCTOBER 2017
THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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Is Your Business Prepared for an Emergency?
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Disaster Preparedness Means Community Resilience By David Schaffert, President/CEO of the Thurston County Chamber
PUBLISHER Thurston County Chamber of Commerce
EDITORIAL Editor: David Schaffert Phone: (360) 357-3362 Email: dschaffert@thurstonchamber.com
CONTRIBUTORS David Schaffert Doug Mah Natasha Ashenhurst Rebekah Finn Christina Butcher Alisha Blain
A
s the country grapples with
trauma — whether they are rapid onset shocks
the aftermath and recovery of
that result from a natural disaster or slow
Hurricane Harvey in Houston and Hurricane Irma in the
onset stresses, such as those caused by abuse
Caribbean and Florida, our
or neglect — they need resilience to survive
community is thinking about
and recover. Resilient communities and
our own looming emergencies.
individuals spring back from difficulties and
What we need to do today is prepare for the
return to normal, healthy activities."
inevitable emergency that will affect our
According to the Federation of the Red Cross,
business and our lives either tomorrow or in
communities that overcome disasters possess
ten years and the way we prepare is to make a
the following characteristics:
plan, both at home and at work. First, we cover
ADVERTISING Sales and Marketing: Melanie Bell Blake Knoblauch Phone: (360) 357-3362
the basics, and then we need to think about
loss of life.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
We do these things so that our business will
Mosaic Marketing Studio
COVER ART Courtesy of the City of Lacey. A photo
PRINTING Print NW
They are organized so they can identify problems, establish priorities and act.
•
They are connected and provide support
long after the clean-up is complete, because
networks as well as goods and services
we know that a prepared community is also a
when needed.
resilient community. •
of the microburst that hit Lacey, May 2017.
•
endure long after a disaster, but we also do these things so that our community will endure
DESIGN
therefore recover more quickly with less
the proper insurance coverage and how our data is protected.
Email: info@thurstonchamber.com
Their people are knowledgeable and healthy and have prepared for disasters,
intangibles and figure out whether we have
Email: info@thurstonchamber.com
Phone: (360) 357-3362
•
Finally, resilient communities have strong
Dr. Rachel Wood is the health officer for
housing, transportation, power, water and
Thurston and Lewis counties, and she is
sanitation systems.
also part of the Thurston Thrives Education
CONTACT THE CHAMBER PO Box 1427 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 Phone: (360) 357-3362
& Resilience Action Team. She has written
Ultimately, a prepared business is a resilient
extensively about resilience and she says,
business and a prepared community is a
"When individuals and communities face
resilient community, so make a plan today.●
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: Capital Medical Center Little Creek Casino & Resort Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel Phillips Burgess, PLLC Port of Olympia Providence St. Peter Hospital South Puget Sound Community College Washington Business Bank
PLATINUM INVESTORS America's Credit Union - Lacey Conduent Heritage Bank - Olympia Mills & Mills Funeral Home
4 • October 2017 Thurston Thurrston County Chamber VOICE
Morningside Olympia Federal Savings Olympia Orthopaedic Associates Print NW Saint Martin's University TAGS Awards and Specialties TwinStar Credit Union
GOLD INVESTORS Bakala State Farm Boggs Inspection Services Cabinets by Trivonna The Creative Office First Senior Living Community GHB Insurance Grays Harbor Fair & Tourism Great Wolf Lodge
Greene Realty Group Hometown Property Management Hooper Financial Services Jessica Jensen Law PS Nicholson & Associates Nisqually Red Wind Casino Olympia Furniture Company Pardiman Productions Puget Sound Energy RHD Enterprises SCJ Alliance South Sound Radiology Venables Pest Management Wells Fargo Community Bank
thurstonchamber.com
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6 TIPS TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR WINTER 1. 3. 4. 5.
Give your heating system a tune-up Check your roof Seal windows and doors Check exterior hose bibs and drain your sprinkler system 6. Check your chimney and fireplace 7. Check your gutters and downspouts
360.480.9602 boggsinspect@gmail.com | www.boggsinspect.com
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE October 2017 5
Pick your lucky numbers
Every Friday & Saturday in October Pick numbers 8AM - 8:50PM for the day’s cauldron drawings at 1PM, 3PM, 5PM, 7PM & 9PM Match all 6 numbers and you could win up to $100,000! PLUS a $2,500 Bonus Hot Seat Drawing at 9:30PM each promotion day One $100,000 grand prize available. Subsequent 6 number matches win $10,000. Must be 21+ Players Club member. See Players Club for details.
THE PLACE WHERE YOU BELONG JUST GOT EVEN BETTER 6 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
I- 5 to Exit 88
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Rochester
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1 - 8 0 0 - 7 2 0 -17 8 8
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thurstonchamber.com
luckyeagle.com
Featuring...
CONTENT & CALENDAR
Every month, the Thurston County Chamber offers several networking events, forums & workshops to the community. Here are some highlights you won't want to miss. Oct. 3
Morning Mixxer @ Lasting Touch Memorial JJoin our host, Lasting Touch Memorial, on Tuesday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 a.m. for the Thurston Chamber’s Morning Mixxer. Lasting Touch will provide breakfast treats and our Morning Mixxer Sponsor, L&E Bottling, will provide a coffee bar. 3700 Pacific Avenue, Olympia.
Oct.. 5
Is Your Business Prepared?
Forum: Meet the Candidates JJoin the Thurston County Chamber Wed., Oct.11 at 11:15 a.m. at the Hotel RL, for a Candidates Reception & Meet the Candidates Forum. Don't miss this celebration of politics, policy and people! This event will feature the Port of Olympia Commissioner race, a pivotal race with
Experts at Thurston County Emergency Management share strategies for preparing for an emergency
16 New Members! Meet the newest members of the Thurston Chamber
regional significance.
BAH @ The Firs Senior Living JJoin us for Business After Hours on Thursday, Oct. 19 at
18
5:30 p.m. at the Firs Senior Living Community. Learn more
IT Prepared
about this organization while enjoying beverages, appetizers and networking. BAH is free to attend and is sponsored by Conduent and 94.5 ROXY.
Young Professionals Network SAVE THE DATE for the Young Professionals Network at
How safe is your data? Learn tips from local experts.
23
Cooper Point Public House, Thursday, Nov. 2 at 5:30 p.m. The
Are you Covered?
Young Professionals Network is a great way to interact with
We talk with insurance experts about getting excellent coverage in place before an emergency strikes.
younger professionals. Location: 3002 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia.
For more event information, please visit thurstonchamber.com
thurstonchamber.com
Get to know the candidates for Port Commissioner, Port of Olympia
JJoin us for the Young Professionals Network at Speakeasy
younger professionals. Location: 325 4th Ave E, Olympia.
Nov. 2
Meet the Candidates
14
Young Professionals Network is a great way to interact with
Oct. 19
10
Young Professionals Network Y Salon, Spa & Bistro on Thursday, Oct. 5 at 5:30 p.m. The
Oct. 11
In this issue...
Thurston County Chamber VOICE October 2017 7
Caught in the Lens...
8 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
A collection of photos taken at Chamber events during August and September i Farm, and Providence Community Care Center. Finally, the Chamber Foundatio
thurstonchamber.com
including: After Hours at Nearing Total Health, Morning Mixxer at Oly Social, September Forum, Foofaraw, Ribbon Cuttings at Bakala State on held a kick-off evening for A Night on the Town, Paris 2018.
Olympia City Council Candidates Forum Thursday, October 19th, 2017 Doors open at 5:30 pm, 90-minute program starting at 6:00 pm The View Point Room, Tugboat Annies 2100 West Bay Dr NW, Olympia, WA 98502 Sponsored by the West Olympia Business Association and the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce Thanks to Thurston Community Media for coverage of this forum This is a “no-host” event.
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE October 2017 9
Meet the Candidates for Port Commissioner, Port of Olympia
Bill McGregor
Bill Fishburn
E.J. Zita
Juqita “Gigi” McClure
By Doug Mah, Doug Mah & Associates and Thurston Chamber's Public Policy Division Director
T
his November, Thurston
The Port of Olympia is a countywide
named values being jobs, trade, business
County voters will elect
Port District. According to the Thurston
benefits and revenue generation.
the majority of the
County Auditor’s webpage, “Port districts
three-member Port of
are empowered to levy taxes, promote
Olympia Commissioners.
economic development, create incidental
Voters will choose
park and recreation facilities, and adopt
between incumbent Bill McGregor or
and enforce regulations for moorage
challenger Bill Fishburn (District 2) and
and toll facilities. The commissioners
incumbent E.J. Zita or challenger Gigi
set objectives, policies, and overall
McClure (District 3). Each candidate
port direction through comprehensive
brings a unique set of experiences
plans.” In March 2015, the Thurston
and perspectives to the job of Port
County Chamber and leaders from the
Commissioner. The four port candidates
International Longshore Warehouse
were asked to reply in writing to three
Union (ILWU) Local 47, sought to answer,
questions regarding port activities and
“How does the public view the Port of
operations. These written responses
Olympia” and hired Elway Research,
help serve as a primer for the October
Inc. to conduct a public opinion poll.
Forum (Wed., Oct. 11, at 11:15 a.m.
The research confirmed that the public
at the Hotel RL) where each Port
recognizes the Port as an economic
Commissioner candidate will answer
development leader in the community. It
questions and articulate why he or she
also indicated that many people believe
is the best person to be your next Port
that the Port doesn’t really impact them
Commissioner.
personally. However, nine in ten people
Port Commissioners and the Port of Olympia play a unique role in economic development across Thurston County.
surveyed named at least one benefit of having the Port of Olympia in our
The dominant finding of the 2015 poll was that there is broad support for the Port and its many activities. The suggestion that knowledge of port operations and functions may not be as deep as might be desired is an opportunity and challenge. The opportunity lies in the fact that the more people know about the range of Port activities, the more they value it. The Thurston County Chamber and its Public Policy Division encourage all voters to gain a better understanding of the Port of Olympia, its operations, and impact on the local economy. A great place to start is to meet and better understand the perspectives of the candidates who desire to serve as the leaders of the Port. To register for the Meet the Candidates Forum in October, visit thurstonchamber.com ●
community, with the most frequently
10 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
thurstonchamber.com
Question 1: A recent report* indicates that direct, induced, and indirect jobs associated with the Marine Terminal increased from 407 jobs in 2009 to 564 jobs in 2014. This is an increase of 157 jobs or 38.5 percent. Going forward, how will you retain and grow jobs associated with the Marine Terminal? A. Bill McGregor
A. Bill Fishburn:
A. E.J. Zita
A. Gigi McClure:
The Port of Olympia has surplus Marine Terminal handling capacity. The Port has been actively marketing new customers to supplement the movement of the cargoes currently being handled. During 2017, we have increased the transport of agricultural products (corn) and livestock along with a shipment of gold ore. I will encourage the Port staff to look for more opportunities in handling agricultural commodities along with breakbulk cargo, such as heavy machinery and components for renewable energy projects. The addition of Cruise Lines calling the Port in 2018 increases Tourism and generates new dollars in our community.
The referenced “impact study” is a cookie-cutter modeling of benefits without costs, not grounded in the social and economic environment of Thurston County. It is useless to a policy maker. I support quality research informing specific actions to improve the lives of county residents. The Port of Olympia's mandate is to promote projects providing this county with stable, livable wage jobs in a climate conscious manner. This is how I judge existing projects like the Marine Terminal and future projects like clean technology. Job growth sectors in Thurston county include State Government, Social/ Professional Services, Retail, Food, and Construction.
“Direct” maritime jobs increased from 177 to 249 (from 2009-2014). More log truck and terminal jobs, with lower pay (Martin2016_p39). If maritime jobs left Olympia, they would not be lost, but “relocate to another port” (Martin2016_p4). Economic benefit from the Marine Terminal declined significantly (83% lower than in recession period). “Direct” Personal Income increased by $6 M, but Business Revenue suffered a much larger loss of $162 M.I directed the POCAC to study opportunities to improve Marine Terminal business, to benefit maritime workers and community. Consider recreation and tourism, incubator hubs, passenger ferries, more.
As one of three Port Commissioners, I will not act alone to retain and grow jobs associated with the Marine Terminal. Together, I will work with the Executive Director and other two port commissioners to pursue new policy. This policy should incorporate economic development with technological adjustments to new innovations over time, environmental implementations, succession planning, and training in that regard for all those who work at the Marine Terminal. We need to look forward at every step of the way for new developments that will enhance all future growth and our environment.
Question 2: The report* indicates n that the Port’s four llines of business add $236.1 million in personal income and local consumption. Of this amount, 54 percent comes from the Airport and New Market Industrial Campus. What do you see as the top priorities for the Airport and New Market Industrial Campus? A. Bill Fishburn: A. Bill McGregor A. E.J. Zita A. Gigi McClure: The Port of Olympia hired an airline service consultant to investigate the return of air service to Olympia. While regular air service may not be feasible, there are charter services and scenic flight businesses that may expand their services to the public. In addition, construction and manufacturing businesses have told me that there is a shortage of trained employees who can use sophisticated computer tools to do on site repairs of mechanical systems. I hope that new Market Campus can be expanded to offer additional training for these well-paying jobs for the young people of Thurston County.
One year ago the Port updated its Airport Master Plan. Only three months ago, the Port Commission approved its CSHI covering the Airport and New Market Industrial Campus. Neither of these documents provides a climate conscious perspective regarding operations, commercial development, or land use. This is a must. In addition, as former federally owned properties, these areas are dependent on the Federal Aviation Administration. Given the Federal government’s intention to privatize air traffic control and eliminate rural airport subsidies, proposals for regional air service must take these two factors into account, as well as Tumwater's planning priorities.
*The official title of the report is: The Economic Benefits of the Port of Olympia. Prepared by Martin Associates, January 26, 2016.
Airport income fell by nearly half ($247 to $128 M), down from over 70% of total port income ($351 to $235 M). Sustained by FAA subsidies. Top priority is sustainable development of real estate, where infrastructure already exists (roads and utilities). Serve communities and protect environment. Aim for Tumwater goals: housing and mixed-use development (shops, restaurants, clinics, etc.), and brewery re-development. Small passenger airline service might fly - population is doubling and SeaTac needs third runway. Study future expanded transportation options, including bus/rail transportation hub. Seek grants for renewable energy installations. Improve building efficiencies. Farm for veterans.
As financial matters improve at the port, we should consider the future upgrade at the terminal facilities so a modern terminal is available as an opportunity to include inbound and outbound flights as well as rental space. We must continue to reach out to businesses that want space for cargo transition or storage as Thurston County continues to expand. With the New Market Campus, I would prioritize continuing to work with the Economic Development Council and other business partnerships to target entrepreneur startups or pre-apprenticeship programs with local union organization training facilities. Innovation should be encouraged at each location.
Continued on page 12 thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE October 2017 11
Continued from page 11
Question 3: The 2016 report includes the impact of 4,000 visitor nights for transient recreational boaters in 2014. What is your vision for tourism in Thurston county and how can the Port of Olympia best work with other jurisdictions, agencies, and businesses to stimulate local tourism? A. Bill McGregor
A. Bill Fishburn:
A. E.J. Zita
A. Gigi McClure:
The Port of Olympia has already made a large step forward with the agreement of American Cruise Lines to begin docking at the Port in 2018. I can foresee other businesses providing services to cruise passengers including customized tours of landmarks in Olympia, shuttles to restaurants or to nearby places such as the Deschutes River Falls and salmon hatchery, the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually Wildlife Refuge, Wolf Haven and/or tour of other sites in Thurston County. In addition, the opening of the Swantown Marina Fuel Dock will encourage more recreational boaters to visit the State Capital now that refueling is made more convenient.
Under statute, the Port can participate in promoting tourism. It should work with appropriate agencies to promote the industry in ways appropriate to its greater mandate to provide and protect recreational opportunities and quality of life for Thurston residents. Tourism should stem from policies promoting living wage jobs and a healthy environment. The Port must partner with other jurisdictions, agencies, businesses, and the Squaxin Island and Nisqually Tribes to nurture Thurston’s mountains, valleys, waterways and shorelines. Thurston tourism grows stronger as an inspiring showcase for building a strong, forwardlooking and climate conscious relationship to the natural world that sustains us.
The Port should partner in growing tourism, sustainably. Thurston County tourism is undercapitalized, with great potential to contribute to our local economy. Study passenger ferries from Olympia to Tacoma and Seattle, for transportation and emergency management, and to stimulate downtown businesses (while earning ¼ of expenses from fares). City of Olympia reports that 2 feet of sea level rise will cause 150 floods per year at the Port. Recreation can still be viable, even with weekly king tides at the Port. Need to restore shorelines and remediate legacy pollution.
The port has partnered with the Washington State Tourism to identify future tours for cruise ships. The OlympiaTumwater- Lacey Visitor’s Convention Bureau (VCB) operates a central website, “Experience Olympia & Beyond”, that collaborates with all the cities and towns in Thurston County on local events, destinations, lodging. As the VCB grows, the Port of Olympia should play a larger role promoting this region’s uniqueness, hospitality, and services. The port supports the Farmer’s Market, and East Bay Trail along with many annual events. These experiences and future developments should be highlighted and improved along with the VCB.
Meet the Candidates Forum Featuring Port of Olympia Commissioner Candidates Luncheon & Moderated Discussion Wednesday, October 11, 11:15 a.m. Hotel RL Olympia Register at www.thurston chamber.com
12 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
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Thurston County Chamber VOICE October 2017 13
Plan for the Worst. Hope for the Best. By Natasha Ashenhurst
M
ost successful businesses have a plan — a marketing strategy and/ or long-range goals in place — but not many have drafted a disaster preparedness plan, let alone drilled employees through mock disaster situations. Vivian Eason, emergency management coordinator for Thurston County, would like to see that change. Eason hopes that the current media coverage of hurricanes Harvey and Irma in the Gulf of Mexico
warnings. Eason recommends
will help folks in Thurston County take action to prepare for emergencies of their own — whether
following the Thurston County
by fire, flood or flu.
Emergency management on Facebook and Twitter and
The VOICE spoke with Eason in September, and she outlined the steps organizations should take
recommends both households
to prepare for a disaster or emergency. While most of us think of disasters arriving in the form of
and businesses should have
an earthquake or flood, Eason cautions that businesses also need to plan and drill for an active
battery-operated radios in
shooter situation, widespread flu outbreak or a fire.
order to listen to National
Step One: Prepare Personnel
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Thurston
According to Eason, the first step to create a prepared business is to make sure employees are
County alert systems. She
prepared at a personal level.
cautions people always
First, individuals and families should think about how they will receive emergency alerts and
14 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
check the source of the news they receive and should
thurstonchamber.com
The Thurston County Emergency Management team works through a simulation exercise in June 2016 called Cascadia Rising. This was the largest disaster drill ever conducted in the Pacific Northwest, and according to the Seattle times, emergency management experts found that, despite decades of warnings, the region remains dangerously unprepared to deal with a Cascadia megaquake and tsunami. avoid second-hand information, as it is
with their loved ones, you need a way
businesses need to think about having
often false. Instead, rely on first-hand
to communicate with your employees,”
desk kits or a supply of food and water
information from a reliable source.
said Eason. She recommends creating a
set-aside,” said Eason. “Some businesses
phone tree to communicate important
keep dehydrated food on hand; others
Next, households should have a shelter,
information in a fast and efficient
have a kit for each employee. No matter
evacuation and communication plan.
manner. The communication plan can be
what system you choose, you need to be
These include thinking about food
as simple as a brochure that employees
able to take care of your staff until you
and water. In the past, Eason and her
carry in their car or briefcase.
can get help.”
Step Three: Create a “Shelter in Place” Plan
Step Four: Drill, Baby, Drill
Most organizations have a first aid
Finally, once communication and shelter
kit and fire extinguisher in a central
plans are in place, organizations need to
location, but not many have a supply of
drill for an actual emergency so they are
emergency food and water on site.
prepared if disaster strikes.
According to Veronica Rich, VP of Human
O Bee, for example, practices safety on a
colleagues suggested three days of food and water, but after the Cascadia Rising drill, they now recommend two weeks of food and water. Organizations also need to designate essential personnel from non-essential personnel. Outline strategies for essential personnel getting to and from your organization in events such as snowstorms, floods and any situation where the roads are difficult to navigate.
Step Two: Develop An Emergency Employee Communication System “Once your employees have a plan and know how they will communicate
thurstonchamber.com
Resources at O Bee Credit Union, every O Bee location maintains a 72-hour shelter in place inventory in the event of an actual emergency. Their supply includes basic necessities such as water, flashlights , hand crank radios, and also food.
monthly basis. "A calendar was created for all locations to practice different drills every month in case of a natural disaster or other emergency situation. We also created an incident response booklet which is
“If a disaster takes place when employees are at work and they can’t get home,
available at each location that provides step-by-step instructions on what to do in different scenarios to include robbery
Thurston County Chamber VOICE October 2017 15
Tipsy Piano Bar opened at the end of August.
Welcome, New Members ADP Aaron Ness (253) 318-4917 www.adp.com Payroll Service
Country Financial - Eric Kleemeyer Eric Kleemeyer (360) 357-4060 Insurance
Advanced Language Liaison, LLC Raymond Bentson (360) 470-2650 www.advancedlanguageliaison. com Education - Consultants & Services
Emerald City Music Andrew Goldstein (206) 250-5510 www.emeraldcitymusic.org Non-Profit Organizations & Associations
Angle Agency JoAnn Doss 360-426-8272 www.angleagency.com Insurance AXA Advisors Simon Vlas (360) 815-7412 Banks/Mortgage Companies/ Financial Services/Financial Planners Continental Computer Services Erik Johnson (360) 915-4518 Computer Sales & Services Cost Plus World Market James Garcia 510-694-3298 www.worldmarket.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Christy LeGeer (360) 491-7985 www.hiexpress.com/laceywa Hotels & Accommodations Ila's Foods, LLC Debbie Kilcup (360) 870-4109 Grocers Maestro Strategic Solutions Dave Maestas (360) 280-1068 maestrostrategicsolutions.com
Advertising Agencies
Media Marketing Solutions LLC Carlos Camargo 206-915-5270 mmsmedia.net Marketing Programs & Services
Home Décor 16 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
Meridian Campus Family Dental Katelyn Catalana (360) 205-1139 meridiancampusfamilydental.com
Dentists & Orthodontists
MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care Drew Flowers (360) 763-7515 www.indigourgentcare.com Clinics – Medical Oly Float Dan Larsen (360) 972-3031 www.olyfloat.com Floatation Therapy Olympia Chiropractic Center Erryn Horne (360) 943-8250 www.olychirocenter.com Chiropractors, D.C. Olympia Pest Management Samantha Malone (360) 819-4120 olympiapest.com Pest Control Phoenix Rising Wellness Center Shamika Cordis (360) 728-0315 www.phoenixrisingwc.com Chiropractors, D.C.
Professional Accounting and Tax Service, Inc. Jerry Long 360-972-5830 Accountants - Certified Public Speakeasy Salon, Spa and Bistro Kelli Tagles (360) 515-5437 www.speakeasyoly.com Salon & Spa Tart Cider, LLC Zoe VanSchyndel (360) 515-8234 www.tartcidery.com Brew Pubs, Sports Bars, & Wine Bars Tipsy Piano Bar Jonas Rodriguez 360-915-7181 Brew Pubs, Sports Bars, & Wine Bars Viva-Getics Lyfestyle System Tracy Jo Hamilton (763) 639-7258 www.vivagetics.com Life Coach Zach Johns Metlife Auto & Home Zach Johns (425) 999-2632 Insurance
thurstonchamber.com
drills which proved to be useful during our first robbery which took place on June 5," said Rich. “The more you drill and the more you practice, the better you will react in stressful situations,” said Eason. “O Bee worked with the fire department to learn how to evacuate [the building] in the case of a fire and taught all of their employees how to use a fire extinguisher. “Know the risks your business faces based on where it is located and drill accordingly. If you are in an area prone to flooding, drill for that. If you are on the fifth-floor of a building and have staff who can’t take the stairs, drill for that.” Local fire departments are an excellent resource to help create an emergency evacuation plan, said Eason. She said these plans are especially important to think about if any employees have disabilities, which could make it more difficult for them to evacuate. Drill for other things like an active shooter situation, a chemical leak, terrorist threat, an earthquake or a flood. Planning will not only save lives, but it can save the business from financial loss. During the 2007 floods in Rochester, an egg farm had an agreement with a helicopter business to fly produce out and supplies in when they were cut off from their supply chain. A local veterinary clinic recently installed a generator to prevent the loss of valuable medicine during power outages. “Ultimately, businesses and individuals need to be prepared to be on their own at home and at work. They need food and water,” said Eason. “Most importantly for the community, they need to be ready to come back strong and resilient after a
Photos above are courtesy of the City of Lacey taken after the May 2017 microburst. The photo below is courtesy of the Olympia Tumwater Foundation taken during flooding of the Deschutes River at Tumwater Falls.
disaster and they need to be ready to help their neighbors.” ●
Is your organization ready for an emergency? Below you'll find resources to walk your organization through the planning process.
•
Thurston County: http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/em/
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City of Olympia: http://olympiawa.gov/news-and-faq-s/disasters-and-emergencyinformation.aspx
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Department of Homeland Security (for Households): https://www.ready.gov/
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City of Tumwater: http://www.ci.tumwater.wa.us/departments/fire-ems/ ready-for-action/emergency-management
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Dept. of Homeland Security (for Businesses): https://www.ready.gov/business
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City of Lacey: http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/portals/0/docs/public_works/plan_ documents/cemp_final_2013_update.pdf
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE October 2017 17
Data, Networks & Disaster How businesses can best prepare for IT disasters By Christina Butcher
E
mergencies aren’t always the result of natural disasters. This is especially true when we’re talking about business. Emergencies can come in the form of losing key employees, experiencing a sudden drop in sales or realizing your equipment is faulty and stalling production.
matter if the emergency is encryption, ransomware or a hurricane. It’s all destructive to your business.” With over 16 years of experience in technology, Whitley is acutely aware of the damage data and network emergencies can cause for businesses, as well as the measures they can take
But when it comes to technology, almost all emergencies a business might face can be
to prevent them. He spends his days
prevented or combatted the same way: with preparation and risk management. “It
at BrightWire (which he founded
really doesn’t matter what the emergency is,” says Todd Whitley, CEO and co-founder
with chief technology officer Gordon
of the information technology (IT) services company BrightWire Networks. “It doesn’t
Carlisle in 2005) preventing technology
18 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
thurstonchamber.com
emergencies working in systems
and avoidance are some of the best
management, network administration,
preventative measures they can take.
security services and support services to help clients prevent and
It’s also important to recognize that
appropriately respond to technology
when it comes to social engineering,
disasters. “BrightWire becomes their IT
every business is a potential target,
department,” says Whitley. “We take on
regardless of size. “One of the biggest
responsibility for every aspect of their
misnomers I hear is, ‘I’m not a target,
day-to-day infrastructure management,
I’m a small business. Why would anyone
project management and help desk
want my data?’ That’s a very dangerous
services. We’re a technology company,
mindset. The fact of the matter is all
but when we’re working with a client, it’s
businesses are always a target.”
all about protecting their business.” Another common technology disaster In doing so, BrightWire can help
emergencies happening around us:
Todd Whitley, CEO and co-founder of the information technology (IT) services company BrightWire Networks, located in Olympia.
social engineering, in which people use
up (email) attachments, which allows
businesses recognize and prevent some of the most common technology
electronic deception to intrude on or access our data and networks. “Over the last year or two, we’ve seen a huge increase in the use of ransomware, a network intrusion in which people are targeted via email,” says Whitley. “They’re tricking people into opening
criminals to work their way around a lot
is data loss after failing to properly put backup systems into place. And if you don’t think it can happen to your business, think again. Home Office Computing Magazine reported that 31% of businesses have lost all their data due
of anti-virus and anti-spam tools.”
to events beyond their control. Even
Luckily for most businesses, simple
lose their data will shut down within six
measures like utilizing anti-spam, antivirus software and ramping up employee training in malware recognition
more shockingly, 60% of companies that months of the disaster. “A lot of times, a backup system isn’t working properly but a business assumes it is. It’s an ‘out of sight out of mind’ situation,” says
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Thurston County Chamber VOICE October 2017 19
Copper network patch panel in a data center. Whitley. “They’re focused on other
be expensive...and executing on it
things, so it falls to the wayside. No
might be a challenge...but losing your
one validates that the backups work.
data or network is a real risk,” says
Typically, businesses both small and
Whitley.
large don’t have things set up properly. They aren’t aware of how risky this is."
In business, the question should not be if a technology disaster will
The easiest way to find out if your
hit, but when. Even businesses with
backup systems are operating properly,
employees properly trained in social
according to Whitley, is to have an
engineering, backup systems in
expert take an assessment of your
place, and professional assessments
network and data systems.
and risk mitigating procedures will eventually find themselves faced with
“It’s best practice to have a third party
a technology disaster. So, what should
come in and look, make sure things are
businesses do when the inevitable
set up properly and provide a report.
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backup or if you can recover, then you need to talk to a professional. That goes
“What it really boils down to is how
a long way towards mitigating the risk,”
quickly you can recover from a
says Whitley.
disaster,” says Whitley. “You have to be prepared. You have to ask
Having an assessment taken isn’t just
yourself, ‘what’s my biggest risk, what
a preventative step, either. It’s also
do I need to do to mitigate that risk,
a critical reactive tool that can help
and if it happens, how quickly can
businesses develop protocols to use
I recover?’ That’s a general disaster
once disaster hits.
preparedness concept. In the world of IT, it’s really a question of, ‘what’s my
“Discover your single points of failure
recovery time?’” ●
and then get rid of them. It might
Christina Butcher is a freelance writer and owner of Blue Cactus Press. 20 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
thurstonchamber.com
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE October 2017 21
LTC Class of 2018. Photo by Heather Harris of Elements Photography.
LTC Class of 2018 Takes the Stage By Alisha Blain, LTC Coordinator Department
On September 7, the Leadership Thurston County Class of 2018 came
Albert Brown, South Puget Sound Community College
together for the Opening Retreat to start their 10-month journey of community
JaNessa Bumgarner, Lucky Eagle Casino and Hotel
connections, involvement exploration, and learning about current issues. LTC is
Craig Clark, Pacific Mountain WDC (PacMtn)
a community immersion based leadership program of the Thurston County Chamber
Erin Conine, City of Olympia
Foundation.
Bryon Dahl, Adult Family Home Council Meagan Darrow, TOGETHER!
Introducing the LTC Class of 2018 Rodney Anderson, Capitol City Press Heidi Andrade, South Puget Sound Community College Jana Ayres, Olympia Credit Union Shawn Ball, Thurston County Krystal Barkus, Thurston County Chamber of Commerce Paulette Beadling , Hands On Children's Museum Daniel Berner, Goldstein Law Office, PLLC Bruce Brenna, Tumwater Police
Moira Davin, Experience Olympia & Beyond
Brock Le, Fairchild Record Search Jeffery Lippert, Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney's Office Nathan Magee, US Army Travis Matheson, Washington State Patrol Alexis Miller, TwinStar Credit Union Natalie Skovran, Family Support Center of South Sound Chantelle Petrone Marker , Employment Security Department Harry Pickernell, Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation
Robb Dunn, Puget Sound Energy
Zach Powers, The Evergreen State College
JJ Geise, Capital Medical Center
Terri Prather, LOTT Clean Water Alliance
Lynda Green, Scholastic Book Fairs
Ken Rice, Evergreen Christian Community
Wendy Hill, Thurston 911
Tim Rudloff, Thurston County Sheriff's
Communications Pamela Holsinger-Fuchs, Saint Martin's University Ross Jarvis, SCJ Alliance Samantha Jenkins, Express Employment Professionals Shirley Jones, T&S Cleaning, Inc Paul Koleber, Intercity Transit
22 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
Office Rudy Rudolph, Port of Olympia Leslie Shahan, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington Ryan Warner, WA State Department of Transportation Rebekah Zinn, Thurston County Superior Court
thurstonchamber.com
Is your business protected in the event of a disaster? By Rebekah Finn
W
hen we think about planning for an emergency or natural disaster, many of us stock up on toilet paper, dehydrated food and batteries, all tangibles that we can shop for and set aside for a power outage or a flood that traps us in our home or business. These staples are a great first step, but we need to protect our property, plant and equipment from disaster too, and that involves working with our insurance agent to read the fine print and make sure we’re covered for all contingencies. Vivian Eason with Thurston County Emergency Management
She says that FEMA is not a first responder. In the 2007 floods, it
explains a misconception that many people have—they believe
took 10 days to get a 'FEMA declared disaster.' The bottom line:
they can count on the Federal Emergency Management Agency
businesses need to be well insured against loss due to a disaster.
(FEMA) to get them back on their feet after a disaster, but that isn’t what they are responsible for. “When the microburst hit
“A lot of businesses didn’t come back from the floods after the
[Lacey, May 2017] a few people lost their homes and federal
2007 Chehalis flood. Flood insurance is expensive, but it can
assistance was not available to them. FEMA’s role is to help local
mean losing everything if you don’t have it,” said Eason.
government, not individuals and businesses. In order to learn how to navigate the complex world of business "For example, during the 2007 [Chehalis area] floods we had a
insurance and disaster preparedness, we sought advice from
FEMA declared disaster which reimbursed public agencies, but
two local experts, Ben Houk at Nicholson & Associates Insurance
not individuals or businesses,” said Eason.
and Ron Bruchet at GHB Insurance.
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE October 2017 23
representatives, etc. "Definitely use your agent to help you navigate what is happening. It doesn’t have to be a hopeless feeling,” says Houk. He adds, “Having a relationship with a local agent who is going through the same thing, who knows where you are and can pronounce the name of the street you’re on, is going to make
Ron Bruchet is president and owner of GHB Insurance, located in Olympia. Both GHB and Nicholson & Associates agree that the more an organization can prepare ahead of time, the easier the response and recovery is going to be after a disaster. According to Ben Houk, vice president at Nicholson & Associates, business owners should take a close look at all their risks and assets during their emergency planning process, and then check their insurance policies to make sure they have adequate coverage. “You really need to talk to your insurance agent, go over your policy and assess those risks,” says Houk. “Around here, earthquakes are the big deal. For most business owners’ policies, earthquake is not a covered peril. Most of the preferred insurance companies are not writing in earthquake policies anymore. So we have to go to an outside carrier to get an additional earthquake policy or a ‘Difference in Conditions (DIC)’ policy. A DIC includes events such as an earthquake, flood, landslide, or mudflow.” Ron Bruchet, president and owner of GHB Insurance has similar advice for organizations. His number one tip to prepare for emergencies? “Have a business continuity plan in place,” he said. “Review your policy as part of your preparedness plan, and make a plan for crisis communication.” In addition to getting the coverage your organization needs, both agents
a huge difference when you and your
Ben Houk is vice president at Nicholson & Associates, located in Olympia. recommend following best practices for risk management. “There are a lot of [risk management] resources we can help you access,” explains Bruchet. Houk agrees: “Most of the big insurance companies have so much information on their websites. Their risk control is so vast. You can download exactly what you need, or ask your agent to send you something.” Not only will following best practice guidelines help you avert as much risk as possible, it will also ensure that your business is getting the best rates possible on your insurance policies. If you’ve followed their advice to prepare, the recovery process once a natural disaster occurs will be as smooth as it possibly can be. Bruchet goes through the sequence of what to do in the wake of a disaster: “Communication to your team is the first step; have a plan in place for communicating. Then focus on your infrastructure; make sure you can get back to business, get back online and get back in your building. Then contact your agent, file your claim, and get access to the government programs that will help you get back on your feet.” He adds that business owners should be aware of people preying on others during the time of need, i.e., phony contractors, inspectors and scam artists
organization are in recovery mode.” ●
PREPARE 1. Talk to your insurance agent as part of your emergency preparedness planning. Assess your risks and assets; make sure you have all the coverage you need. 2. Develop an emergency procedure including a communication plan for ensuring employees are accounted for. 3. Follow best practices for safety and risk management. (See the American Red Cross Ready Rating, FEMA guidelines, and Ready.gov.) 4. Use technology to ensure easy communication in case of an emergency: 5. Create online accounts for easy access to your insurance claims 6. Sign up for local emergency alerts. 7. Keep your contact lists on your phone or easily accessible via an external server. 8. Set up social media accounts to communicate with your customers.
RESPOND 1. Communicate with your team – make sure everyone is safe. 2. Focus on your infrastructure – make sure you can get back to business. 3. Contact your insurance agent; file your claims, access government assistance programs.
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24 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE
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