O C T O B E R
T H U R S T O N
2 0 2 1
C O U N T Y
ROXY's Mike Marohn on The Business of Radio
C H A M B E R
Startup Playbook: Porcupine Media
Voter's Guide GROWING A PROSPEROUS ECONOMY & VIBRANT COMMUNITY
Your Local Business Banking Team As our community and its business needs grow, so do we! You’ve got ambitious goals – so why not partner with a bank that can get you where you want to go with the resources, technology and expertise you need? Our trusted and experienced business banking team have creative, common-sense answers to every financial need.
Chuck Hoeschen
Carrie Whisler
Joel Slovick
Ken Pekola
Commercial Loan Officer
SVP, Chief Credit Officer
Small Business Banker
VP, Comm. Lending Dir.
NMLS #1143795
NMLS #850393
BANKING THAT’S MUTUAL olyfed.com I 360-754-3400 I commerciallending@olyfed.com I member fdic I equal housing lender
October 2021
THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER VOICE MAGAZINE
Visit ThurstonChamber.com and click on the Events Calendar for the latest information regarding Chamber events. Join our Morning Mixxer host, Enterprise Truck Rental, in-person, at 2400 Carriage Lp SW, Olympia, WA 98502, on Tuesday, October 5 at 7:30 a.m. Morning Mixxer is free to attend and is held the first Tuesday of each month. These networking events are great for making new business connections within the community. MIXX 96.1 proudly sponsors Morning Mixxer. Join our host, Great Wolf Lodge at 20500 Old Highway 99 SW, Grand Mound, WA 98531 on Thursday, October 7 at 5:30 p.m. for the Thurston Young Professionals Monthly Networking Event. The Young Professionals of Lewis County (YPLC) will also join for this event! Enjoy bites & beverages as you expand your network! All are welcome – invite other 20 to 30-year-olds so they can expand their networks and get to know all the fantastic Young Professionals in our community.
Afters Hour
In This Issue... Startup Playbook: Porcupine Media p. 5 Innovative storytelling, live streaming, video and podcast production propel this tenacious team of creatives.
Point of View: Mike Marohn of ROXY on The Business of Radio p. 8 ROXY majority owner and former Thurston County Chamber board chair, Mike Marohn recaps his career in radio and shares his predictions
The Thurston Chamber invites the community to attend our October Forum on Wednesday, October 20 at 11:30 a.m. at the Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake (formerly Hotel RL), 2300 Evergreen Park Drive SW, Olympia, WA 98502. This event will feature a Candidates Reception & Meet the Candidates Forum. Don't miss this celebration of politics, policy and people! Find more information about the event on page 21.
for the future of the industry.
Business After Hours is back and in-person! Join our host Linnea's Unique Boutique on Thursday October 21, 5:30 p.m. at 6715 Martin Way E, Lacey, WA 98516, for mingling and networking with other business professionals, playing games, beverages and appetizers.
Port Commissioner races.
We will observe Washington State Department of Health and Thurston County Public Health and Social Services' guidance at every event.
Voter's Guide p. 11 This year, we asked two questions of the candidates in the Tumwater, Olympia, Lacey City Council, Mayoral, and
Caught in the Lens p. 23 Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings and see all of the great smiles that make up our Chamber membership!
The VOICE is FSC® Certified.
Thank You Sponsors!
thurstonchamber.com
The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC), is a non-profit organization that sets certain high standards to make sure that forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible and socially beneficial manner.
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
I October 2021
I
3
magazine PUBLISHER Thurston County Chamber of Commerce EDITORIAL David Schaffert 360-357-3362 dschaffert@thurstonchamber.com CONTRIBUTORS David Schaffert Doug Mah Doria Maselli Natasha Ashenhurst ADVERTISING Sales & Marketing: Krystal Barkus Elizabeth Bretschneider Ashley Chandler SUBSCRIPTIONS 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com DESIGN Ben Hawkes Mosaic Marketing Studio COVER Photo courtesy of Dreamstime.com PRINTING Print NW CONTACT THE CHAMBER 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com thurstonchamber.com
Your Vote Counts by David Schaffert, Thurston County Chamber President/CEO Doug Mah, Doug Mah & Associates, Thurston Chamber Public Policy Director
In November, the voters of Thurston County and area cities and towns will be asked to select local elected leaders that will shape and guide our community for the next four years. Thurston County Chamber members must vote. This year, we asked candidates running for Port Commissioner and City Council member in Lacey, Olympia, and Tumwater to answer two questions.
don’t generate public interest like elections for Presidents, Governors, Congressional or State Legislative Offices. The last time city council races were on the ballot was in 2019; voter turnout was less than 45 percent countywide. But voter turnout was almost 85 percent in the 2020 presidential election. We know that when voters are engaged that they will vote.
The Thurston County Chamber We hope that their short answers give encourages all voters to understand you a better idea about what they see better the candidates and their as the barriers to economic prosperity positions concerning the local and their top economic goals. Many economy. Public policy is determined people view these races as pivotal by those that participate. The most and having regional significance. We straightforward and most crucial step recognize that our elected officials to participate is to vote. can directly shape the economic tone and reputation of our region. We encourage you to vote in this November’s general election. Your Local, “off-year” elections typically vote counts.
THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER BUILDING COMMUNITY PROSPERITY SINCE 1874 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. ©2021 VOICE Magazine, Thurston County Chamber.
S TA R T U P P L AY B O O K
Porcupine Media
by Doria Maselli
As I rush into my meeting with Miguel Pineda, Director of Operations at Porcupine Media, I’m already running late and then smack into a construction detour. Miguel greets me warmly as I apologize, welcoming me into the space. Instead of four blank walls, these walls are decorated with colorful record album covers. There are no cubicles in sight, but a comfortable couch sits in the center of the main office and a drum set in the corner. I instantly relax and feel at ease, at home almost. And one thing is clear: This isn’t your typical 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. suit-wearing environment. Creativity lives here. And in fact, the team at Porcupine has known each other for years, much of that in Olympia’s artist community - through acting, playing music and film production, the crew has been acquainted for some time through their creative endeavors. Porcupine Media creates commercial video and proprietary content. “Video production is the bread and butter of what we do,” says Pineda. I come from a background of working for non-profits, particularly leading workshops and trainings on volunteer engagement. I realized that video is a highly effective medium to communicate messages to your thurstonchamber.com
audience, and that’s how Porcupine was born.” Other services they provide include event coverage, content consultation, livestreaming and podcast production. Porcupine creates content for a variety of organizations in Thurston County and beyond. Clients like the South Sound YMCA have utilized their streamlined and creative approach for making promotional videos. They’ve worked with Interfaith Works on Lean In Olympia, a live stream show on Interfaith Work’s Facebook page every other Tuesday. “Live streaming is something
that a lot of our clients have started using that can be highly effective,” says Pineda. “Organizations can start conversations about their mission or issues and topics that need to be addressed, and then the content can be recorded, allowing them to lead the conversation and engage others.” The Olympia Furniture & Sleep Co. has gained national attention at industry trade shows with the creative advertising that Porcupine imagined and produced. “We live stream a lot of their content, and in one segment titled “Where is Eddie?” we
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
I October 2021
I
5
SHOP LOCAL
#COMETOGETHER
SHOP LOCAL
#COMETOGETHER
SHOP LOCAL
#COMETOGETHER
SHOP LOC-OLY SHOP LOCAL LOC-OLY AT CAPITAL MALL SHOP SHOP SHOP LOCAL LOC-OLY AT CAPITAL MALL SHOP LOCAL AT CAPITAL MALL
Capital Mall is proud to support local businesses owned by your neighbors or who source products directly from local makers. Scan for more information about how to Shop, Eat and Play LOC-OLY at Capital Mall. Capital Mall is proud to support local businesses owned by your neighbors or who source products directly from local makers. Scan for more information aboutishow to to Shop, Eatlocal and Play LOC-OLY at Capital Capital Mall proud support businesses owned by yourMall. neighbors or who source products directly from local makers. Scan for more information about how to Shop, Eat and Play LOC-OLY at Capital Mall.#CAPITALMALLOLY capitalmallwa
@capital_mall
360.754.8098 | 625 Black Lake Boulevard, Olympia, Washington capitalmallolympia.com
#CAPITALMALLOLY capitalmallwa
@capital_mall
360.754.8098 | 625 Black Lake Boulevard, Olympia, Washington #CAPITALMALLOLY capitalmallolympia.com capitalmallwa @capital_mall 360.754.8098 | 625 Black Lake Boulevard, Olympia, Washington capitalmallolympia.com 6 I
October 2021
I
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
thurstonchamber.com
ETHER
take their employee Eddie to different locations in Olympia in an Olympia Furniture recliner and have viewers guess the location, it’s a lot of fun and has generated a lot of attention,” says Pineda. “We take a unique approach to storytelling and a lot of our clients allow us to think outside the box and use a fun and comedic approach to engaging and connecting with the audience.” This creative way of connecting transfers over to some of Porcupines other projects, including Night Quill Sessions. The Night Quill Sessions are a series of weekly livestreamed events every Thursday at 8:00 p.m. featuring musicians and comedians performing a set for a small studio audience. The program is available on Twitch. “Live streaming is here to stay, and we’re excited about projects like this that allow us to use our expertise while also giving exposure to artists and musicians,” says Pineda.
MIGUEL & LOGAN'S PLAYBOOK:
R
1. Get started. Your plan does not need to be perfect; it just needs to be consistent.
3. Get yourself a team, cup of coffee with and build it with people someone and connect. who have different backgrounds and skill sets. 5. Know where you want to be and define how 2. Be bold. Stay on the other 4. Build a space that’s to get there in an side of “what everyone else conducive to creativity organized way. Don’t is doing.” Don’t be afraid and possibility – a place you reinvent the wheel, to take a risk. can be comfortable, share a innovate it. Startup Playbook is a series of articles interviewing Thurston County startups and the entrepreneurs who founded them in order to gain insight into patterns of success.
Banking made easy! For business, home, construction...or just a smile.
ERIK HEIMANN NMLS# 539571
MATT HARGRAVE NMLS# 1218316
ASHLEY WORTH NMLS# 1287822
DOWNTOWN OLYMPIA WEST OLYMPIA TUMWATER LACEY/DOWNTOWN LACEY/HAWKS PRAIRIE PANORAMA YELM
TIM COLLINS
ILE & MOB E, N ONLI ! TOO
MATT DEBORD
DIANA GRANTHAM
800.562.8761
POINT OF VIEW
The
Business of Radio We speak with Mike Marohn, majority owner of 94.5 ROXY and former Thurston County Chamber board chair about his career in radio, trends and his predictions for its future. by Natasha Ashenhurst According to market researcher IMARK, radio advertising represents one of the oldest forms of advertising globally and is relatively inexpensive compared to other channels. Despite the current attention toward online ads, radio holds a considerable share in the market. In addition, radio serves as an excellent publicity channel and is preferred by both large and small companies worldwide. They predict the radio advertising market to experience growth over the next five years stating, “One of the significant market trends is the increasing penetration of smartphones and internet facilities, which has led to a rise in online radio audiences.” According to Insider Intelligence, an advertising data agency, “During the pandemic and ensuing lockdowns, fewer people commuted to work every day, and many local businesses cut their marketing budgets as they fought to stay open. These conditions have strained the radio advertising market, but they expect radio to partially rebound next year, rising 16.8% to $12.18 billion.” To learn more about the business of radio and to get a local 8 I
October 2021
I
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
point of view, we spoke with Mike Marohn, the majority owner of 94.5 ROXY. He has spent many years both in and adjacent to the radio industry; including while working as a local financial consultant from which he is now retired. Mike’s love of radio began when he was a high school student at North Thurston High School in Lacey, Washington. “A friend and I decided to put on dances and to advertise on the radio. We wrote and voiced the commercials. Later, when I was going to college someone told me I had a good voice for radio and I ended up volunteering as a DJ on campus radio. Later that resulted in getting a job doing the midnight to 6:00 A.M. slot and the morning news for a radio station in Atlanta, Georgia,” he said. Mike attended three different colleges and found work on the air everywhere he went. However, his focus shifted when he discovered that stations were charging $30 for a 30-second commercial spot. He compared ad revenue to his hourly wage of $2.50 and realized he was on the wrong side of the microphone. thurstonchamber.com
“I’ve been on the ownership side of radio since the early 1990s,” he said. “When a frequency in the Olympia area became available, we developed 94.5 ROXY. It has evolved since then, going through a change in ownership in 2012 and in 2016 we acquired high definition stations 100.3 and 101.9.”
A Short History of the Business of Radio In the 1980s and 90s, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) limited the number of stations a company could own in a single market to just two. Today, conglomerates can own up to five stations in a market. This change has led to several large corporations currently dominating the American radio business. The way radio stations make money has also changed. In the 1980s, radio’s main competition was newspaper advertising. In the 1990s, it was newspaper and cable. In the 2010s, streaming audio and online advertising became viable competitors, but some radio stations evolved to diversify revenue streams through digital advertising, web streaming, video production and inter-media partnerships.
Will Radio Remain Relevant? YES! – It’s Hyper-Local Mike believes that because radio stations such as ROXY epitomize hyper-local October 2021
I
media focus, and the owners live and work locally, they know the business community. “We are involved in the community. We know our audience and therefore can tailor messaging to help business attract customers. Social media can give the illusion of granularity, but they are really just taking a shotgun approach and hoping they hit something,” Mike said.
Future Trends He challenges anyone to name a topperforming brand that focuses on only one advertising channel. “We know it can be intimidating to market your business with all the options out there, but that is exactly what we can do for you and we’ve been in this business for a long time. We work with our clients to understand what they want to accomplish and achieve their goals, regardless of the medium.” He believes that businesses need to serve existing customers and find new customers where customers are—which today means everywhere. Companies can’t afford to focus on one advertising medium; they must include digital, print and radio in their advertising mix. “The demise of radio has been predicted for the last 40 or 50 years, but it survives because it is local and accessible,” said Mike, “As long as we’re able to serve this community and help businesses grow, we’ll remain relevant.”
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
I 9
thurstonchamber.com
Your business’s most important resources are human resources. Good employees are hard to find and even harder to keep! That's why WorkSource Washington has created a free, one-stop hiring hub to help your company find talent to fill every position. WorkSourceWA. com features Washington's largest employment database, along with tools to simplify your hiring process. Once you've found the perfect employees, WorksourceWA.com offers training resources for your team's professional development. Find virtual job fairs, training resources, labor market information AND post job listings for free today! Sign up for your employer account at WorksourceWA.com. Worksource Washington – We work for you! The Employment Security Department and WorkSource are equal opportunity employers/programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. WA Relay 711
worksourcewa.com
THURSTON COUNTY THURSTON COUNTY
TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: WOODLAND BRANCH: 676 Woodland Square Loop SE, Suite 405 | Lacey, WA 98503 TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: ((360) 456-7878
TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: WOODLAND BRANCH: HAWKS PRAIRIE BRANCH:
WOODLAND BRANCH:
676 Woodland Square Loop SE, Suite 405 | Lacey, WA 98503 8730 Tallon Lane NE, Suite 101 | Lacey, WA 98516 ((360) 456-7878 456-7878 676 Woodland Square ((360) Loop SE, Suite 405 | Lacey, WA 98503
((360) 456-7878
HAWKS PRAIRIE BRANCH:
YOUR CLOSING 8730 Tallon Lane NE, SuiteIS 101 | OUR Lacey, WAGOAL. 98516 HAWKS PRAIRIE BRANCH: ((360) 456-7878
8730 Tallon Lane NE, Suite 101 | Lacey, WA 98516 ((360) 456-7878
YOUR CLOSING IS OUR GOAL.
YOUR CLOSING IS OUR GOAL.
W W W . C T T H U R S T O N . C O M
THURSTON COUNTY
Voter’s Guide
This year, we're featuring ten races in our Voter's Guide. We asked the candidates to answer two questions: 1. In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region, and how should local government address this barrier?
2. If elected, what is your top economic development goal, and how will you involve the Thurston Chamber to achieve this goal?
We hope that their short answers give you a better idea about their relevant experience and what they see as the opportunities for regional economic growth. Please remember to vote and use this information to be a better-informed voter. You'll have a chance to meet a few of these candidates at the Thurston Chamber Meet the Candidates Forum on October 20. Learn more at thurstonchamber.com.
Tumwater Mayor
Debbie Sullivan
Pamela J. Hanson
Q1 In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region and how should local government address this barrier?
"Recovery from COVID-19 is the biggest barrier. Grants available through local governments can assist and as a current Tumwater Councilmember, I am involved in this process."
No submission as of deadline.
Q2 If elected, what is your top economic development goal and how will you involve the Thurston Chamber to achieve this goal?
"Tumwater currently does not have an Economic Development Director. As Mayor, I will make sure this position is filled and would interface with business groups such as the Chamber."
No submission as of deadline.
Candidates
Debbie Sullivan Pamela J. Hanson
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
I October 2021
I
11
Banking focused on you.
CALL US AT
(360) 754-1945
DISCOVER MORE AT
wabizbank.com
Tumwater City Council Pos. 2
Angela Jefferson
Casey Taylor
Candidates
Angela Jefferson Casey Taylor Q1 In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region and how should local government address this barrier?
"The biggest barrier is extremely low wages No submission as of deadline. for “hourly workers”. The cost of food, housing and childcare is up, but wages remain stagnant. Local government should look at supporting a livable wage."
Q2 If elected, what is your top economic development goal and how will you involve the Thurston Chamber to achieve this goal?
No submission as of deadline. "My economic goal is to make Tumwater a destination that people “drive to, not drive through”. I would love to see a family friendly event center built. My chamber can help me further explore this idea and lobby other local organizations to make it happen."
Tumwater City Council Pos. 6
Alex Rossiter
Peter Agabi
Q1 In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region and how should local government address this barrier?
"High cost of doing business is the biggest barrier. State and local taxes and fees are very high. It's hard to afford to start a small business in WA."
"Affordable, sustainable, attainable housing. Our community members can only live and thrive in Thurston if housing makes sense. We must incentivize diverse housing and make the building process more accessible."
Q2 If elected, what is your top economic development goal and how will you involve the Thurston Chamber to achieve this goal?
"I propose to offer free business licenses ($50 each) to Tumwater businesses. We can reserve the monies the City spends on the C.o.C and EDC to fund it."
"Creating additional housing will increase revenue for local businesses supplying and staffing these projects. I will work with the chamber to ensure local labor builds Thurston back better than before!"
Candidates
Alex Rossiter Peter Agabi
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
I October 2021
I
13
Looking for better I.T. Support?
Look no further.
Olympia.Computer can help.
We provide I.T. Solutions for businesses just like yours. ...and we have been doing it for 30 years! Our services include: Managed Services PCI & HIPAA Compliance I.T. Strategies for Growth Data Security and Backups
Remote Access I.T. Audits Email Migration Hardware Upgrades
Olympia.Computer Computer Support for the Pacific Northwest
Help Desk Outsourced CIO Cloud Options Software Support
Free Phone Consultation for any Chamber Member
Call today!
360-995-1010 • Office@Olympia.Computer
Olympia City Council Pos. 2
Robbi Kesler
Yen Huynh
Q1 In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region and how should local government address this barrier?
"My response to this question would depend on whether its focus is on an individual/family, a new business, an existing business, a business sector, or the area in general."
"The pandemic is the biggest barrier. Local government should increase: vaccination rates; resource accessibility; permitting process efficiency; and investments in workforce development, childcare, and the arts as economic drivers."
Q2 If elected, what is your top economic development goal and how will you involve the Thurston Chamber to achieve this goal?
"Specific to the City of Olympia, I would like to see an emphasis on attracting new businesses and retaining existing businesses. I would encourage input from Chamber members."
"My top economic development goal would be to invest in workforce development, childcare, and the arts as economic drivers. I would enjoy consulting regularly with the Thurston Chamber."
Clark Gilman
Candace Mercer
Q1 In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region and how should local government address this barrier?
"Gig employment, stagnant wages, and speculators buying houses hold today’s young adults back from economic prosperity. Home ownership incentives and livable wages could each help create equitable resilient regional prosperity."
"77% of Olympians don't feel safe downtown at night. We cannot prosper without security of person and property. Only then will business be able to thrive again."
Q2 If elected, what is your top economic development goal and how will you involve the Thurston Chamber to achieve this goal?
"My top economic development goal is to support the Thurston Strong COVID-19 recovery effort, this recovery work will push us to new insights and possibilities. Together, we’ve got this!"
"Housing for all income levels. I'll listen to Chamber input with an open mind. When it comes to decisions involving the business community. I am not a socialist."
Candidates
Robbi Kesler Yen Huynh
Olympia City Council Pos. 4
Candidates
Clark Gilman Candace Mercer
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
I October 2021
I
15
Serving All of Thurston County ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT THROUGHOUT THURSTON COUNTY
1. Provided $70,000 for the renovation of the Historic Oddfellows
101
8
Building.
7
101
Olympia
5
2. Provided $75,000 to complete the Master plan for the SW
5
Washington Innovation & Business Park.
Lacey
3. Provided $10,000 for the installation of wider sidewalks,
bulb-outs and landscaping along Binghampton Street to build downtown character and enhance the setting for local and visiting shoppers.
510
Tumwater
4. Provided $20,000 to assist with the design and construction of
6
the community center.
5. Provided $15,000 to support investment in the Lacey Yelm
121
3 2 5
Tenino
12
507
Rainier
4
MakerSpace project.
6. In partnership with the City of Tumwater and U.S. Fish and
Wildlife, developed a Habitat Conversation Plan to provide long-term preservation and management of protected and endangered species.
7. In partnership with the Frank Family, Squaxin Island Tribe and
Salmon Defense, developed and maintains the Billy Frank Jr. Park and Trail to provide a historical and educational self-guided walking tour.
PORTOLYMPIA.COM
1 16 I
October 2021
I
BucodaChamber VOICE 507 County Thurston
360.528.8000 Inquiries@PortOlympia.com
thurstonchamber.com
Olympia City Council Pos. 5
Lisa Parshley
Talauna Reed
"Covid-related workforce shortages and supply chain issues are an immediate and dire threat. The city must work with community stakeholders to ensure we target relief efforts where they're most effective."
"In the City of Olympia, the biggest barrier to economic prosperity is skyrocketing rental costs. Olympia City Council must make building affordable and low income housing its number one priority."
"I want to help foster a more robust support network for local small manufacturers. Critical partners in this work include the Chamber, EDC, SPSCC, the Port, and Enterprise for Equity."
"Partnering with the Chamber to create a Workforce Equity Strategic Plan that ensures BIPOC workers, vendors and developers are afforded more opportunities, higher wages and leadership positions throughout Olympia."
Corey Gauny
Dontae Payne
"Affordable housing is an essential part of a healthy economic ecosystem. Local governments need to address the barriers that increase costs and limit supply of housing for all markets."
"The lack of a diverse supply of affordable housing. When city residents’ basic needs aren’t met, it is difficult for them to participate in our local economy in other ways."
"Thurston County, where small businesses Start, Grow and Thrive. In partnership with the Thurston Chamber, I want to ensure we utilize COVID relief funds to stabilize our local small businesses."
"Other than addressing housing needs via the Housing Action Plan, boosting tourism in the city is critical for our economy. I’ll consult the Thurston Chamber regularly to generate proposals."
Candidates
Lisa Parshley Talauna Reed
Q1 In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region and how should local government address this barrier?
Q2 If elected, what is your top economic development goal and how will you involve the Thurston Chamber to achieve this goal?
Olympia City Council Pos. 6
Candidates
Corey Gauny Dontae Payne
Q1 In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region and how should local government address this barrier?
Q2 If elected, what is your top economic development goal and how will you involve the Thurston Chamber to achieve this goal?
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
I October 2021
I
17
Protection
for everything that’s important
to you
Auto Bonds Commercial Home Life Medical Pets Travel Umbrella
Experience The Nicholson Difference
Four Convenient Locations To Serve You
CENTRALIA 360-736-7601
OLYMPIA 360-352-8444
PACKWOOD 360-494-7126
VANCOUVER 360-254-2842
www.nicholson-insurance.com firstcitizens.com
Your business. Your building. Our great rates. Owner Occupied Commercial Real Estate Loans
Vicky Churchill VP-Financial Sales Manager 360-455-6010 Vicky.Churchill@firstcitizens.com
Normal credit approval applies. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender
.
Olympia City Council Pos. 7
Jim Cooper
Spence Weigand
"Shortage of living wage jobs, especially for women and people of color. Government should lead in economic development; and work to increase wages or reduce family’s costs for housing/ childcare."
"The health of small businesses during COVID and the absolute dearth of affordable housing. We need a more dedicated, committed, and financed plan for increasing public safety so that we're more inviting."
"Equity in opportunity, BEFORE COVID we had 10,000+ households struggling. Families must have financial stability for our economy to prosper. I am glad to have the Chamber at the table."
"Increase tourism dollars plus encourage outside businesses to locate here. The Chamber should have strong input on how we improve public safety and increase affordable housing for visitors/new residents."
Port Commissioner District No. 2 Candidates
Jessie W. Simmons
Bob Iyall
Q1 In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region and how should local government address this barrier?
"The biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region, and the greater country, is rigid partisanship. We must find ways to meet in the middle and accomplish our goals."
"Attracting and retaining small businesses. A strong, sustainable economy is built on small business and without them, “leakage” occurs. Dollars earned in Thurston County should be spent here 5-7 times."
"I hope that the Chamber will work with me to create opportunities for small business and good paying jobs at the Port. We accomplish this through innovation, diversification, and entrepreneurship."
"Provide opportunities for local small business to grow. Encouraging use of Thurston Chamber’s business advocacy and training and development tools will be a great resource for new and established business."
Candidates
Jim Cooper Spence Weigand Q1 In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region and how should local government address this barrier?
Q2 If elected, what is your top economic development goal and how will you involve the Thurston Chamber to achieve this goal?
Jessie W. Simmons Bob Iyall
Q2 If elected, what is your top economic development goal and how will you involve the Thurston Chamber to achieve this goal?
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
I October 2021
I
19
At Fieldstone Cooper Point every day is an opportunity for joy— whether relaxing in the spa, working out in the exercise studio, or taking a stroll through the beautiful grounds. Fieldstone Memory Care communities are designed for the comfort, care, and engagement of residents with alzheimer’s and other types of demenitas. Independent & Assisted Living 810 Fieldstone Drive SW, Olympia WA 98502 (360) 915-5764
Memory Care 710 Fieldstone Drive SW, Olympia WA 98502 (360) 915-5737
FieldstoneCooperpoint.com
FieldstoneOlympia.com
As Olympia’s oldest and most experienced commercial real estate firm, our selection of services and dedication to the local community is second to none. We take full responsibility for the life cycle of a property.
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
RESIDENTIAL RENTALS
THERE’S ONLY ONE
An Elevated 55+ Waterfront Lifestyle Welcome to luxurious comforts, an urban oasis of conveniences, and spectacular waterfront views. With modern kitchens, ample storage, and light-filled open living and dining areas, Harbor Heights is perfect for singles or couples seeking an active lifestyle within a 55+ community. For those looking for adventure and convenience, there’s no better place to call home.
Schedule a tour today! 833.432.5964 harborheightsliving.com
ARCHIBALD SISTERS ARCHIBALDSISTERS.COM DOWNTOWN
Olympia
SINCE 1975 BEST OF 2019 THE OLYMPIAN • BEST OF 2020 SHOWCASE MAGAZINE
Port Commissioner District No. 3 Candidates
Amy Evans
Joel Hansen
Q1 In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier to economic prosperity in the region and how should local government address this barrier?
"Us v. them thinking that has created well-intended policies with unforeseen consequences. Local government must identify policies making community goals, such as affordable housing, less attainable, and change those policies."
"The ongoing pandemic is the most immediate barrier to prosperity. As we build back, we need to focus on creating family wage jobs in the clean, green industries of tomorrow."
"Leasing Port real estate, currently underutilized, to generate revenue, create jobs, facilitate environmental stewardship, and do public good. The Chamber’s participation will ensure broad-based community support and long-term viability."
"With all our regional partners, I will pursue every opportunity to incentivize and grow forward thinking companies that work to solve the biggest issues of our time, including climate mitigation."
Amy Evans Joel Hansen
Q2 If elected, what is your top economic development goal and how will you involve the Thurston Chamber to achieve this goal?
Meet the Candidates! Candidate Reception at Chamber's Forum
When: Candidates Reception & Meet the Candidates Forum is Wednesday, Oct. 20 In addition, a large contingent of at 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. candidates running for public office in Where: The Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake Thurston County will be at Forum and the What: Forum includes lunch, and the Candidates Reception to meet and mingle cost is $35 for general admission, $25 for with community and business leaders. prepaid Chamber members and $30 for This event will feature the Port of Olympia members at the door. Commissioner, District No. 2 candidates are Candidates in all races are encouraged Jessie W. Simmons and Bob Iyall and Port to arrive early and stay late for as much Visit ThurstonChamber.com to make your Commissioner, District No. 3 candidates are one-on-one conversation with Chamber reservation today. Amy Evans and Joel Hansen. The Port of members as possible. Olympia Commissioner race is a pivotal race Please note, we follow Washington State with regional significance. Thank you to our Forum sponsors, Department of Health and Thurston County Hometown Property Management, Public Health and Social Services guidance Doug Mah, Director of Thurston TVW and Medicine Creek Enterprise at our events. Please wear your mask unless Chamber’s Public Policy team, will Corporation. you are eating or drinking. Thank you. Join the Thurston County Chamber Wednesday, October 20 at 11:30 a.m. at The Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake for a Candidates Reception & Meet the Candidates Forum. Don't miss this celebration of politics, policy and people!
thurstonchamber.com
moderate the discussion.
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
I October 2021
I
21
The Dispute Resolution Center is Here for You. We offer a variety of resources to help your organization prevent conflict, and navigate conflict when it occurs: • Mediation for co-worker, employee-supervisor, vendor and client conflict • Group Facilitation for work teams • Customized Training in communication and conflict resolution skills, tailored to your needs Most services are available both online and in-person.
Civic Harmony Starts Here
22 I
October 2021
I
Contact us to explore how the DRC can serve your needs: (360) 956-1155 info@mediatethurston.org MediateThurston.org
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
Are you one of the lucky ones? Do you have a boss who inspires you to dream, learn & take action?
Nominate Your Boss Today! Nominations will be accepted through Friday, October 22, 2021. The Chamber and Express will present the eleventh annual Boss of the Year designation at the Chamber’s December Forum on December 8, 2021, at the Olympia Hotel by Capitol Lake.
thurstonchamber.com
Caught in the Lens
#Thankful inThurston
Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings – Ribbon Cuttings and our Thankful in Thurston campaign. Find more at the Thurston Chamber's Facebook page: facebook.com/ThurstonCountyChamber
thurstonchamber.com
Thurston County Chamber VOICE
I October 2021
I
23
Michael White Agency – Farmers Insurance Nicholson & Associates Insurance
Columbia Bank Downtown The Creative Office The Evergreen State College GHB Insurance, Inc. Hometown Property Management, Inc. South Sound Behavioral Hospital Timberland Bank T & S Cleaning, Inc. Venables Pest Management Window Genie
Morningside Nisqually Red Wind Casino Olympia Federal Savings Olympia Olympia Furniture Company Phillips Burgess, PLLC Providence St. Peter Hospital The Rants Group SCJ Alliance South Puget Sound Community College WSECU – Olympia
The Thurston County Chamber sends a BIG THANK YOU to ALL of our investors. With members like you, we are able to provide a sustainable business community in Thurston County as well as foster growth and positive change. Only through your support can we continue to fund important community initiatives and lead the way for business.
Thank You!
Green Realty Group
Chicago Title
Little Creek Casino
TAGS Awards and Specialties
First Citizens Bank
The Firs Senior Living Community
Express Employment Professionals
Edward Jones – Dirk Farrar, Financial Advisor
Cap City Law PS
Budd Bay Café
Bakala State Farm
AAA Washington – Inland
94.5 ROXY
American Workforce Group
Great Wolf Lodge
ADP Comcast FORMA Construction Company Lucky Eagle Casino and Hotel Olympia Orthopaedic Associates, PLLC Pacific Source Health Plans Port of Olympia Puget Sound Energy Saint Martin's University TwinStar Credit Union Corporate Office Veterans Security Operations Washington Business Bank Wells Fargo Community Bank
SILVER
GOLD
PLATINUM
DIAMOND
PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427
