Legends Arcade Owners
Christina and Patrick Costelo bring the nostalgic joys of the arcade to downtown
Family-run 5th House Farms is dedicated to offering the best artisanal cannabis products
GROWING A PROSPEROUS ECONOMY & VIBRANT COMMUNITY
Visit ThurstonChamber.com and click on the Events Calendar for the latest information regarding Chamber events.
Join our host, Indian Summer Golf & Country Club at 5900 Troon Ln SE, Olympia, WA 98501 on Thursday, March 7 at 5:30 p.m. for Thurston Young Professionals (TYP) Monthly Networking Event. Enjoy bites and beverages as you expand your network! All are welcome – feel free to invite other 20 to 30-year-olds so they can expand their networks! TYP is sponsored by Media Drive and KGY Media Group.
Join our Business After Hours host Fieldstone Communities at 710 Fieldstone Dr SW, Olympia, WA 98502 on Thursday, March 21 at 5:30 p.m., for mingling and networking with other business professionals, a door prize business card drawing, beverages and appetizers. Business After Hours is a great opportunity to expand your network, and it is proudly sponsored by ROXY 94.5 and PacificSource Health Plans.
On Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at The Norman Worthington Conference Center at Saint Martin's University, 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503, the Thurston Chamber will hold a Forum addressing the pressing issue of mental health. We'll introduce a panel of community leaders in mental health and discuss contributing factors like opioid and substance use disorder, patterns and trends, and youth mental health. In addition, there will be a mental health resource mini-expo for organizations committed to providing resources to our community. Thank you to our event sponsor, South Sound Behavioral Health. Register at members.thurstonchamber.com/events.
The VOICE prints on FSC® Certified paper.
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.
Legends Arcade p. 7
Owners Christina and Patrick Costelo have brought the nostalgic joys of the arcade to downtown Olympia!
Family Comes First at 5th House Farms p. 13
Family-run 5th House Farms is dedicated to bringing you the best artisanal cannabis products.
Advocacy Update p. 16
Regional business survey reveals a sense of optimism, but it is largely tempered by concerns about taxes.
Upcoming Chamber Events & Programs p. 18
Stay up to date about Forum, A Night on the Town, Math for Life, Find Your Future, the Chamber's 150th Anniversary & Distinguished Leader Awards!
Caught in the Lens p. 22
Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings and see all of the great smiles that make up our membership!
PUBLISHER
Thurston County Chamber of Commerce
EDITORIAL
David Schaffert 360-357-3362
dschaffert@thurstonchamber.com
CONTRIBUTORS
David Schaffert
Doug Mah
Kathryn Millhorn
ADVERTISING
Sales & Marketing:
Krystal Barkus
Elizabeth Bretschneider
Ashley Chandler
Marianne Judd
SUBSCRIPTIONS 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com
DESIGN Ben Hawkes
Mosaic Marketing Studio
COVER
5th House Farms Owner, Carlondo Mitchell. Photo by Shanna Paxton Photography.
PRINTING Print NW
CONTACT THE CHAMBER 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com thurstonchamber.com
We are excited to present to you the latest issue of the VOICE Magazine. Packed with stories and insights embodying our commitment to growing a prosperous economy and vibrant community, we hope this issue catalyzes connection, innovation, and progress.
Our cover story invites you to step back in time with Legends Arcade, where nostalgia meets modern-day entertainment. Christina and Patrick Costelo, the visionary minds behind Legends Arcade, have created a haven for gamers of all ages. Their dedication to recreating the arcade experience is a testament to their unwavering commitment to fostering joy and connection in our community.
Next, we highlight 5th House Farms, a local gem epitomizing artisanal excellence and community spirit. Owner Carlondo Mitchell shares the journey of 5th House Farms, from its inception in 2017 to becoming a staple in our community. With a focus on thoughtful craftsmanship and inclusivity, 5th House Farms is not just a farm; it's a testament to the power of passion and purpose.
In addition to these inspiring stories, we're excited to bring you insights into pressing issues affecting our region. From mental health trends and solutions to the economic outlook tempered by tax concerns, our March Forum and Business Survey coverage aims to inform and empower our readers to drive positive change.
As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of our ever-evolving landscape, let's continue to come together, share ideas, and collaborate toward a brighter future for Thurston County.
Thank you for your continued support and readership.
For more information about hiring a Morningside client visit our website… www.morningsideservices.com
“ THEY FEEL LIKE FRIENDS, ALWAYS SO WELCOMING . ”
Since opening her Asian fusion restaurant five years ago, Yen Ju Lin (“Tiffany”) and her husband, business partner and chef Hung Pham, have relied on OlyFed’s flexible and friendly business banking services to keep transactions tracked, accounts in order, and life a little easier.
A believer in supportive communities, Tiffany and Hung know OlyFed’s reputation for philanthropy, leadership and integrity as the area’s only local mutual bank. So, when Tiffany’s niece opened her own nail salon, she was quick to recommend OlyFed business banking.
For Red Lantern Asian Fusion Restaurant and OlyFed, it all comes down to providing a welcoming attitude and a satisfying customer experience. It’s why since 1906, OlyFed has been putting real relationships above the bottom line.
Tiffany Lin & Hung Pham
by Kathryn Millhorn • Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography
At some point, every childhood includes that most magical of places: the arcade. It was there you could spend hours alone or with your besties (over)indulging in pinball and video games, tasty snacks, loud music, and all your favorite things. With a little luck—and a stack of quarters—nostalgic, lifelong memories were made.
Located at 109 State Avenue in downtown Olympia, Legends Arcade prides itself on bringing back arcade life where one token can give you a whole adventure. They have more than 50 arcade machines, games, and a snack bar for both kids and 21+ kids at heart.
Owners Christina and Patrick Costelo founded Legends Arcade in 2022 and doors opened in March 2023.
The on-site kitchen and full bar followed in December 2023. Both come from a background in educational leadership and met in 2008 as summer camp directors in the Bay Area. They settled in Olympia when Patrick
worked as Executive Director of Youth Development for the South Sound YMCA from 2018 to 2023. Christina has focused on mindfulness education in schools, and she developed and led a mindfulness nonprofit for nearly a decade.
“Our prior career experiences definitely carried over and complement one another,” says Patrick. “The programs that we’re accustomed to operating have high attention to detail on every aspect of the customer experience, with exceptionally high levels of staff satisfaction. Legends Arcade is no different.”
This
They chose downtown Olympia with a similarly mindful focus. Christina says that they wanted “to be a part of the revitalization of that area of our city, which is rich in history and culture. In the last eight years since we’ve moved here, we’ve seen more businesses open downtown each year and more people visiting our local businesses. The downtown support network with the ODA Guides and the Clean Team is incredibly responsive and active helping downtown feel welcoming and clean. We’ve seen nothing but positive growth downtown and know that will continue. There are many small business owners, such as ourselves, who are deeply committed to making downtown Olympia a remarkable destination inviting not just our own locals, but out of town visitors as well.”
The decision to take the entrepreneurial plunge came, in part, thanks to this love of community. While working for Experience Olympia & Beyond in 2022, Christina was introduced to the Thurston County Chamber, Thurston EDC, and Olympia Downtown Alliance. Meeting so many active civic leaders, she was introduced to people working with small business development and continued attending, networking, and attending classes to learn and grow.
“The Chamber is an incredible source of support to businesses and community leaders,” says Christina. “Not only are all of their staff top-notch professionals in their own right, but they also have many distinct programs that meet the needs of a variety of people wherever they are in their journey in local business. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to engage that can meet your needs, both entry points for newbies, like me, and higher-level business engagement for those leaders who are more established.”
“The most important thing the Chamber taught me early on,” she continues, “is that many local businesses are highly collaborative and friendly. I’ve heard the sentiment from some business owners around town that a rising tide lifts all boats— maybe the Puget Sound inspires this—and I see that in action a lot, and especially endorsed by the Chamber.”
A true mom and pop shop, the Costelo family bring their two elementary-aged sons to the Arcade as game testers and welcome
visitors and families seven days a week. They serve a full menu Friday through Sunday and limited, but ever expanding, dining options on weekdays. The Party Room has five free-play games and already hosted more than 300 private events for families, companies, nonprofits, and local businesses.
They keep games fresh by rotating them frequently and always welcome customer feedback and requests. As a side option, they offer game routing, essentially renting out games to nine locations around
Washington State with plans to double that by the end of 2024.
Also growing in 2024 are their events like trivia night, pinball tournaments, arcade competitions, and a Skeeball League. Visit them online at Legends-Arcade.com or through Facebook. To reserve the party room or rent games for your business, bar, or restaurant call 360.334.7732 or email hello@legends-arcade.com today. Then get ready for a blast from the past—complete with jingling pockets full of tokens— thanks to Legends Arcade.
The Pacific Northwest may be known for coffee, technology, rain, and stunning scenery but at heart we love anything which springs from the celebration and honoring of two key passions: the green and the artisanal. There is a collective appreciation for makers who study their craft, work hard, respect the environment, and celebrate both family and community. 5th House Farms is a Black-owned, family-run cannabis farm dedicated to producing top-quality products which are researched and carefully processed from start to finish.
Owner Carlondo Mitchell explains that 5th House Farms began production in 2017. “During that time, we were researching and testing to ensure that we would create a product that would stand out in the competitive market. Our first retail sales took place in summer of 2020, and we’ve now sold over one million vape carts.”
Their artisanal approach is evident in every step of the process. “5th House Farms is a minority-owned farm, and we operate as a small family,” says Mitchell. “Each of our products are thoughtfully crafted with the consumer in
mind. We love to bring community together and design our carts to make people happy while consuming safely.”
All flower used is produced on their farm, extracted in-house, and the oil is then used in vape carts sold around the region. “Growing it ourselves ensures great quality,” says Mitchell, “and our best seller is our 5th House Live vape cart. It’s a flavorful tasty rendition of our high potency concentrate and gives a nice euphoric experience for consumers. Vape carts are convenient because it can fit in your pocket and no lighter needed.”
Venables Pest Management is a locally owned and operated company using pet-friendly, professional pest management solutions for ants, termites, mice, beetles, spiders, bed bugs, yellow jackets and rats. We also offer commercial and residential maintenance services and real estate inspections. Give us a call today.
Truit is here to keep your business secure and on top of its game. We drastically reduce Cybersecurity risk with the most effective, cutting edge security solutions available with a highly experienced team to support your technology needs.
As with any aspect of the cannabis industry, research and testing are required at multiple stages. Mitchell says that he started traveling to multiple states in 2016 “to learn about cannabis concentrates from fellow enthusiasts. Our team spent countless hours on trial and error with extraction, mixing and hardware to develop suitable products. The Washington State recreational cannabis industry is one of the most standardized and most reliable in the country. All of our products are tested by the best laboratories in the Pacific Northwest to ensure quality.”
Mitchell has been in Thurston County for the last four years and truly loves the memories and relationships he’s built over that time. Add that to the benefit of working with family—and a team who now feels like one, whether or not they’re related—and every day is a blessing.
You can read more about 5th House Farms products at www.5thHouseFarms.com
From the website you’ll also be able to find new product launches, community events, and a list of local retailers. There’s even an informative blog to answer questions or read up on current industry trends.
With core values of passion, quality, community, and humility, 5th House Farms works hard to support their employees, families, and community. It’s makers like this that truly keep Washington State evergreen for generations to come.
by Doug Mah, Doug Mah & Associates, Thurston Chamber Public Policy Director
In your opinion, what are the most important public policy issues facing Washington state?
Top five responses:
1. Overall tax burden (61%)
2. Homelessness (55%)
3. Housing (41%)
4. Workforce (40%)
5. Public safety (39%)
Washington employers last month expressed cautious optimism about the outlook for their businesses, tempered by lingering concerns over rising costs, the overall tax burden, and potential for a recession, according to survey results from 516 business owners and operators.
The winter quarter survey by the Association of Washington Business (AWB) showed half the respondents expect to see growth in their business in the next six months — the highest rate since they began asking the question a year ago, according to AWB.
However, when it comes to the most important public policy issues facing Washington state, employers continue to cite the overall tax burden and homelessness as by far the most pressing issues. When asked, “in your opinion, what are the most important challenges facing your business today?”, the top three answers are inflation, government regulations, and lack of qualified workers.
“We’re encouraged that some indicators are moving in the right direction after years of turmoil, even if it’s just a modest improvement,” AWB President and CEO
Kris Johnson said in the AWB press release. “At the same time, it’s clear that employers remain on edge about the state of the economy and the rising costs they’re experiencing. We hope that lawmakers who are meeting in Olympia right now would consider these costs and challenges before adopting new policies that make it harder, more complex and more expensive to start or operate a business in Washington.”
The statewide public policy priorities mirror local concerns about doing business in Thurston County. “Businesses are impacted by both state and local policies
and regulation”, said David Schaffert, President and CEO for the Thurston County Chamber. “We echo AWB’s message and ask that local City Councils and the County Commission consider the complexity, costs, and challenges business face before adopting any new policies”.
Government plays an important role in creating and sustaining a positive business climate. It appears that connecting with our state and local policy makers is more important today than ever before. Let us know if you want to help by emailing: publicpolicy@thurstonchamber.com
WorkSource Thurston recently hosted an open house at South Puget Sound Community College to introduce aspiring machinists to this dynamic 8-week certification.
CNC Machine Operators are in high demand, offering promising career growth from entry-level positions. Their expertise is sought after, particularly in the aerospace and medical equipment industries.
CNC Machinist Training Program offers:
• Expert Instructors: Learn from seasoned professionals dedicated to hands-on training and personalized guidance.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Master basic CNC principles to advanced techniques, ensuring a solid foundation in programming, operation, and troubleshooting.
• Job Placement Assistance: WorkSource partners are committed to student success. Their team will support students in securing rewarding job opportunities with top CNC machining companies.
Ready to kickstart your career in CNC machining? Reach out to WorkSource Thurston or SPSCC today!
Looking for an engaging Spring Break activity?
Dive into the world of real-life math with Math for Life 2024, an interactive program bridging the gap between education and the business community.
Math for Life invites students from Griffin, Olympia, North Thurston, Rainier, Rochester, Tenino, Tumwater, Yelm School Districts, and select private schools to embark on a math-filled scavenger hunt to local businesses in the region. Participants will explore how math shapes everyday operations, all while having a blast! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make math come alive this Spring Break!
How to Participate:
1. Eligibility: Students in grades K-12.
2. Get Your Map: Obtain a Math for Life Map from your school or download it at thurstonchamber.com/mathforlife.
3. The Adventure Begins: Visit at least 5 local businesses listed on the map and collect signatures confirming your visit.
4. Enjoy the Journey: Have fun exploring and discovering the math around you!
5. Submit Your Entry: Inform your teacher of your participation and submit your completed form to jhouchin@thurstonchamber.com or by mail to P.O. Box 1427, Olympia, WA 98507, for a chance to win exciting prizes, including a Kindle Fire Tablet!
Exciting Prizes Await: One grand prize winner will be selected from participating school districts to receive a Kindle Fire Tablet!
We're thrilled to announce the launch of our dedicated website commemorating our remarkable 150th Anniversary. Step into a digital time capsule as we journey through 150 years of innovation, resilience, and community impact. From humble beginnings to groundbreaking achievements, explore the rich tapestry of our organization's legacy.
EXPLORE NOW
thurstonchamber.com/150th-anniversary
Our anniversary website is more than a celebration—a vibrant hub of interactive experiences and exclusive content. We'll keep it up to date with Anniversary-related events and activities you won't want to miss.
Ready to embark on this extraordinary journey with us? Don't miss out! Click the link below to explore our 150th Anniversary website and celebrate this monumental milestone. Here's to 150 years of excellence and many more chapters of success ahead!
Save the Dates May 8, 2024 Annual Meeting July 11, 2024 150th Anniversary Celebration
The Thurston County Chamber will hold a Forum addressing the pressing issue of mental health on Wednesday, March 13 at the Norman Worthington Center at Saint Martin's University.
With an esteemed speaking panel of mental health community leaders and experts, attendees will delve into the core of the issue of Mental Health Matters: Trends, Solutions, and Supports.
The Forum promises an insightful exploration of various aspects, including:
• Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder: Mapping the Current Landscape
• Trends in Mental Health: Understanding the Patterns
• The Opioid Epidemic and its Community Ramifications
• The Mental Health Crisis in Youth: A Growing Concern
In addition to the program, a mental health resource miniexpo will provide attendees the opportunity to meet with organizations committed to providing resources to our community. Organizations interested in participating in the Expo can contact Jessica Houchin, Operations and Events Coordinator at jhouchin@thurstonchamber.com. Join us for an enlightening session that aims to shape the future of mental healthcare in Thurston County!
March 13, 2024, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Norman Worthington Center, Saint Martin's University Register here: members.thurstonchamber.com/events/ Details/march-chamber-forum-999531
Twenty-two years of recognizing leaders who demonstrate outstanding initiative, inspire others, and significantly impact our community and beyond.
The Thurston Chamber Foundation is pleased to unveil the stellar triumvirate of the 2024 Distinguished Leaders Awardees. This year's honorees are more than names; they are the architects of change, the catalysts of inspiration, and the unsung heroes who have left an
indelible mark on our community.
The 22nd annual Distinguished Leaders Awards celebration will take place on Tuesday, March 13, at Saint Martin's Norman Worthington Center. The evening begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m., dinner, and the program at 6:30 p.m. Learn more and get your tickets at ThurstonChamber.com/Events.
When: March 13, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Saint Martin's Norman Worthington Center, 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503
Are you a resident of Olympia interested in a construction career? Do you want to receive free training and receive your necessary certifications? Do you want a living-wage job?
Thanks to funding provided by the City of Olympia, the Olympia Career Hub has spots available in the Olympia Career Hub’s Construction Bootcamp. Training starts in April 2024 at the Olympia Armory. Training is open to all experience levels.
• Training is free to Olympia residents and members of the Squaxin Island Tribe.
• This is a chance to advance your skills and earn industry-recognized certifications.
This program is multi-week. By attending full-time, participants will earn certification in OSHA-10 safety standards, flagging, and forklift operating. At the end of the session, students will attend a hiring event to connect with employers. This free training will lead to living-wage jobs! Register at thurstonchamber.com/programs/olympia-career-hub
Saturday, March 16, 2024, 10:00AM - 2:00PM
The Thurston Chamber Foundation is excited to unveil Find Your Future 2024, a groundbreaking community career exploration event designed to shatter obstacles, eliminate barriers, and challenge stigmas associated with employment. Geared toward students and adults of all ages, this event aims to open doors to new career possibilities.
This FREE, one-day expo-style event invites students and families to embark on a journey towards a fulfilling career. Happening on March 16, 2024, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the New Market Skills Center (7299 New Market St SW, Tumwater, WA 98501), Find Your Future promises a unique experience.
Inspiration: Gain insights into future careers and explore diverse opportunities.
Face-to-Face Connections: Meet employers in a relaxed setting to build valuable connections. Tools and Resources: Acquire the essential tools for navigating training and education paths.
Date & Time: March 16, 2024, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Experience a Complete Sensory Exploration
Featuring specialized equipment, scenarios, and training materials, visitors will immerse themselves in a sensory journey, discovering occupations they may not have known existed or thought attainable.
Learn from educators, businesses, and graduates in Healthcare, Food Production, IT, Hospitality, Manufacturing, Wood and Forest Products, and more!
Supported by Collaborative Partnerships
Find Your Future is a Thurston County Chamber Foundation Program, in partnership with Career Connect Washington, North Thurston Public Schools, Olympia School District, Rainier School District, Rochester School District, Tenino School District, Tumwater School District, and Yelm Community Schools, along with the New Market Skills Center.
Visitors can attend optional breakout sessions, enjoy food available for purchase, and explore at their own pace. Register today to secure your spot!
Location: New Market Skills Center, 7299 New Market St SW, Tumwater, WA 98501
Registration & Information: thurstonchamber.com/chamber-foundation/find-your-future
PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427
SILVER
AAA Washington Cap City
Law, PS Edward Jones –Dirk Farrar, Financial Advisor
Express Employment Professionals
Sotheby's International Realty
Olympic
Michael White Agency –Farmers Insurance
GOLD Chicago Title Umpqua Bank
The Creative Office
The Evergreen State College
GHB Insurance, Inc.
Great Wolf Lodge
Hometown Property Management, Inc.
The Olympia Furniture & Sleep Company
Olympia Orthopaedic Associates
Pest Management
Three Girls Media Timberland Bank Venables
Window Genie
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.
Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, PLLC
Fieldstone Communities
Little Creek Casino & Resort Morningside
MultiCare Capital Medical Center
Olympia Federal Savings
Olympic Rental & Landlord Services
SCJ Alliance
South Puget Sound Community College
Swire Coca-Cola The Rants Group truit Veteran Security Operations
DIAMOND
FORMA Construction Company
Lucky Eagle Casino and Hotel
PacificSource Health Plans
Port of Olympia
Providence Swedish
Puget Sound Energy
Saint Martin's University
TwinStar Credit Union
Washington Business Bank
Wells Fargo Community Bank