503. The Salem Chamber's Magazine – Summer 2020

Lupé Alvarez Aguilar Dough Hook Bake

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Dear Chamber and Salem Community Members

by Tom Hoffert, Chief Execuitve Officer

The Salem Chamber believes in helping businesses prosper so our entire community may thrive.

COVID-19 has presented a uniquely challenging chess board for all of our small business members, their employees, and for all residents in the Salem area. Our 2020 academic graduates have received their diplomas in virtual settings, on YouTube channels, or in unique sociallydistanced small gatherings with friends and family. Calendar year 2020 will surely be remembered as a time of casualties and of champions. But one asterisk must not be compartmentalized or quickly glossed over in the weeks, months, and years to come.

On Sunday morning, May 31, I walked down the steps of our State Capitol westward towards our downtown area. I reviewed much of the damage to our local businesses in the aftermath of the previous night’s activism in downtown Salem. We collectively watched communities across our country engage in peaceful protests

I wish to share with our readers the Salem Chamber’s Statement on Racism & Inclusion:

The Salem Chamber and The Inspire Foundation are uniquely positioned to provide leadership and promote solidarity at a time of grief and ongoing challenge. We are an organization which continues to embrace diversity and inclusion with open arms, for our membership, volunteer leaders, and within our staff professionals. We stand with the Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) as we grieve the death of George Floyd and many others. The Salem Chamber and The Inspire Foundation do not tolerate racism, discrimination, or hatred and we will take proactive steps to make sure we are leading by example. Our business members and their employees come from all walks of life. We need to do more, and we will do more, and we start by listening to be a part of the change that must take place across our country and within the Salem community. The Salem Chamber and The Inspire Foundation have a culture of inclusion, which empowers our members to connect, belong, and grow together. We look forward to working with all residents to ensure Salem is truly a City of Peace for all people.

towards the abhorrent murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. To live in fear for one’s safety and wellbeing, solely based on the color of your skin, is inhumane and simply unacceptable. Salem is united in speaking out against racial injustice and we demand equality for all human beings. I prayed for the families of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbrey, and many other victims who no longer walk with us.

I also prayed that we may illustrate our collective voices for social change peacefully, and refrain from needless damage to the properties of our friends and neighbors. Together as a city and a nation, our collective voice for social equality must be heard. There are many topics in which we can disagree and remain partners, racism isn’t one of them. 503.

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503. is published quarterly by Mt. Angel Publishing, Inc. proud Chamber member.

Publisher: Paula Mabry

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On the Cover: Topher Holland of Taproot Lounge & Cafe; Lupé Alvarez Aguilar of Dough Hook Bake Shop; and Tino Land of Azuls Taco House... Salem businesses that have endured.

Above: Leadership Youth, a program of The Inspire Foundation, visiting the Oregon State Hospital –Museum of Mental Health.

The Success of Business by

As I wrap up my second term as President of the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce, I have my elevator speech about the importance of the Salem Chamber down pat. We exist to increase the economic security of the family units in our community. We don’t care about the color of your skin, your political party affiliation, your sexual orientation, your gender, or even which college football team you prefer. Research shows that when families don’t have economic security things like spouse abuse, child abuse, drug/alcohol abuse, and high school drop out rates all increase. Conversely, when families have economic security things like literacy rates, emotional/ physical health, and giving financially to others, all improve.

Did you ever stop to consider how many things are dependent on the success of business? Certainly, the owners of the business, their family, their employees, the families of their employees all depend on the business. Consider though that the paychecks for teachers, government employees, and workers in non-profits, don’t exist without businesses existing and paying taxes. In a perfect world,

T.J. Sullivan, Huggins Insurance

what is going to help business reach new heights.

As we know, especially in Oregon, what is best for business is often the last thing that is considered. If economic security is important and that private industry is the engine producing the dollars that are generated out of business – what makes for a healthy business climate is where every policy should start. Being focused on our mission means that we need to bring this discussion to policy makers and ideally make sure these policy makers are receptive. This is the reason the Chamber of Commerce is involved in politics and the reason why you should be involved in the political process. Public Policy meetings are a great place to get plugged in…

Remember seven lines ago when I said that in a perfect world business thrives and schools, governments, and nonprofits find success? The Salem Chamber is at work in all these

and ready to work. We consult with elected officials and government administrators to give them insight on policies and rules that would make our city, region and state more livable. The young adults who go through The Inspire Foundation’s Leadership Youth Program spend their second year serving on a nonprofit Board. We want to teach them while they are young about the important role that these entities play in our social fabric; that belief is evident throughout the organization.

Hopefully you are buying what I am selling because we need you. The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce is in great shape. We have an amazing CEO in Tom Hoffert, an amazing President Elect in Kathy Gordon, a Board of Directors that is made up of community all-stars, an eager to serve staff and volunteers at every level who sacrifice their time for your business. Therefore, you should lean in a little more, all you have gained is a lot more

Board of Directors

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President

KATHY GORDON

Aldrich CPA’s & Advisors, LLP

President-Elect

LAURA DORN

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Advisors, LLC

Past President

TJ SULLIVAN

Huggins Insurance Services

Vice President –Membership

ALAN RASMUSSEN Modern Building System

STAFF

TOM HOFFERT

Chief Executive Officer

KATHY MOORE

Chief Development

Officer, CEO of Inspire Foundation

Vice President –Advocacy

WENDY VELIZ

Portland General Electric

Vice President

– Events & Programming

CHRISTY WITZKE

SAIF

ICONS

Treasurer

BOARD MEMBERS

LORISSA ADDABBO

Hope Orthopedics

MARIN ARREOLA III

Advanced Economic Solutions

BRANDON BLAIR

Summit Wealth Management

RYAN COLLIER

Collier Law

DAVE DUNN

Willamette Valley Fruit Company

MIKE HERRON

VIPs Industries

JEFF KELLY

Kelly’s Home Store

JENNIFER MARTIN

Mid-Valley Commercial Real Estate

DR. SHELDON NORD

Corban University

MARIA PALACIO

Olson Florist

STEPHEN JOYE

Fischer, Hayes, Joye & Allen, LLC

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Secretary

ERIC TEMPLETON

RANDY COOK

Saalfeld Griggs, P.C.

PAUL DAKOPOLOS

Garrett Hemann

Robertson, P.C.

DAN M c DOWELL

Pioneer Trust Bank

JEFF MILLER

Coldwell Banker Commercial

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AmeriTitle

KRISTI PIPPERT Director of Operations

HEIDI COWDEN Programs Coordinator

Member Services

ZACHARY SIELICKY Membership Manager

DEVIN BROWN Business Liaison

MICHELLE WARNER Business Liaison

VALERIE

FRY-RAMIREZ Business Liaison

CHRIS PHIPPS Workforce Development Specialist

RIBBON CUTTING REQUEST FORM

Let’s celebrate! Ribbon Cuttings are a complimentary service the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce provides to members at the Connector level and above who have just started a new business, have moved to a new location, or who have recently undergone a remodel. As the business owner, you have the option of making this event as simple or as elaborate as you wish.

Be sure to fill out a request form at salemchamber.org/ ribboncuttingform to book your date now!

GREETERS APPLICATION

Greeters is the largest and most active business networking opportunity in the Salem area. Greeters is available to all Salem Area Chamber of Commerce members (and their employees). Applications are due a week from booking your date. Requests are taken on a first come basis. Members will be put on a wait list once the calendar year is full. Members can host Greeters once in a calendar year. salemchamber.org/host-greeters-application

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by Zachary Sielicky

Salem is a city of bright spots. Catalysts for positive change. Conveners of resources. Champions for the community. Is there a better place than 503 to share stories of champions for Salem?

We couldn’t think of one, so we rounded up some champions to tell us their stories – reluctant as they were – about what they and their teams have done to make Salem brighter for all.

Geppetto’s Italian Restaurant

Pizza with the cheese on top is making its way throughout Salem and beyond with the help of Geppetto’s Italian Restaurant, Partnership and Perseverance Delivery. With the support of with the Salem Convention Center, The Grand Hotel, Bentley’s and Phoenix Inn and Suites, throughout the month of April, they provided pizza for each Salem Police Department patrol shift!

When the “Stay Home, Save Lives” Executive Order went out, Julie Hoy and her team at Geppetto’s were shaken.

“What do we do? How do we do this?” they asked. It had been just one year since a fire had closed down Geppetto’s. This time, they hadn’t lost everything — they just needed to figure out how to operate without bar and lottery revenue.

Since Hoy was already in the process

Gepetto’s Italian Restaurant delivers pizza to Salem Police Department.

of adding another delivery vehicle, they quickly found staff they could shift into the kitchen and transferred their services to delivery. There have been a few bumps in the road – they have to direct-source for their sausage supply. At one point, they almost ran out of ‘ to-go boxes, then pizza boxes, and then it was paper bags.

“I call each of these obstacles as they come ‘pitches,’ and we’re standing in the batter’s box and don’t get to stop swinging,” Hoy said. “We have to meet each challenge as it comes, and fortunately that’s what we’ve been doing.”

After their first week and being busy with takeout and delivery, Hoy received a call from Chrissie Bertsch, the General Manager at the Salem Convention Center. Bertsch wanted to partner with Geppetto’s and offer pizza to three of the Convention Center’s business partners each week, naming it Pizza, Partnership and Perseverance. Around the same time, a friend bought a gift card from Geppetto’s to buy food for hospital workers. Calls like that continued to come in, and Hoy estimates the pay-it-forward meals amount to around $3,000.

Three weeks earlier, Hoy connected with the Salem Police Department to organize getting some pizzas to patrol crews. Hoy pitched the idea to the Pizza, Partnership and Perseverance partners, and they successfully sent food to five shifts.

“We’re floating a river right now, and we’re all in our boats or rafts. At first you think you’re alone, but then others begin to float around you,” Hoy said.

“Then the water that was good gets rough, but because we’re together we’re going to be okay and navigate these waters as a community. And that I feel, is one of the true blessings to come out of this.

“When people talk about [Geppetto’s] as a champion, or anyone else as a champion, we’re able to be open for business. We’ve had to work hard at navigating all of these obstacles and digesting all the information. I realized recently that those who had to close, or haven’t opened yet, are champions in my mind because they had to do the really hard thing. They had to accept that this was not going to work and their doors would close. What they had to do is harder than what I’m doing.”

Vouture Designer Bridal Boutique

The correlation between a prosperous business environment and a thriving community manifests during times of uncertainty. You find that small businesses can have a massive impact on a large community. That is the case for Vien To, a designer in Salem.

To is the owner of Vouture Designer Bridal Boutique in the heart of downtown Salem, nestled between Engelberg Antiks and Archive Coffee & Bar. Walking past, you can’t help but admire the beautiful, handmade bridal dresses and custom-made men’s suits that line the windows.

To made a pivot from making dresses and suits to making masks in a matter of days. In the wake of a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) for first responders, she designed and produced over 100 masks to help keep the firefighters of Clark County Fire & Rescue safe during their day to day interactions with people.

“Vien’s mask is more in-depth than the average mask,” said Josh Taylor, a deputy fire marshal in Clark County. “She really thought out the process, taking the extra time to create something not only pragmatic but also comfortable.”

Vien To with a batch of her masks and Clark County Deputy Fire Marshall Josh Taylor.

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The masks To made provided a slot for small filters to be added to replicate the M-97 masks in short supply. To’s design and eagerness to get this right was so meticulously thought out that she provided varying sizes that would allow for maximum comfort for everyone.

“Vien is the most giving and hard-working person I know,” added Taylor. “She loves her community and as long as I have known her, she has always put helping others above her own needs.”

When asked about the impact this had on his team of first responders, Taylor responded, “You cannot even put it into numbers. It had a major impact on protecting the lives of tens of thousands of people. Vien’s hard work and eagerness to help us in a time of need is something I will never forget.”

Advantage Heating & Cooling

Taking Care

Advantage Heating and Cooling is thinking of the financial impact of their customers who have lost their jobs. They took the bold step of waiving all diagnostic fees in Salem and Keizer.

As an alternative to regular on-site maintenance visits, Advantage Heating & Cooling began offering filter deliveries to their customers.

In partnership with the Salem Dream Center, Advantage Heating collected canned goods, bathroom tissue and other consumables for local families in need. Advantage is offering free safety inspections and filter changes in exchange.

Rudy’s Steakhouse

Restaurants were some of the hardest hit by the virus. The day Rudy’s Steakhouse received their 12-hour notice, the restaurant had also received a substantial amount of product.

Rudy’s Steakhouse was one the first establishments to offer

Rudy’s Steakhouse staff delivering Crisis Meals.

$1 Crisis Meals for first responders, medical personnel, and laid off workers daily. While they started off at $1, community support grew quickly After the initial wave of interest in funding Crisis Meals, Rudy’s manager Robbie Kunke made a website and went from dollar meals to offering them for free, which then turned into 80 meal deliveries to hospitals and police stations.

All that, in turn, allowed Rudy’s to utilize their large team of workers to continue to give away free meals. In the end, 40% of the meals (including labor) is paid for by the public, and 60% is funded by Rudy’s Steakhouse with the product they had on hand. All employees laid off were eligible to receive those daily meals as well.

On May 3, Rudy’s served 65 Prime Rib & Chicken Marsala Crisis Meals – bringing the total number of meals served to 5,000.

“We believe If you do things the right way, all things will work out in the end,” Kunke said. “It’s definitely been financially strenuous, and we’re looking to get back up and running – but that’s where it’s been really cool. Regarding the Crisis Meals specifically, we had many people saying how cool the program was and asking how they could help.”

Interested in supporting Crisis Meals? Visit crisismeals. com/rudyssteakhouse to purchase a meal for a frontline health worker, first responder, or unpaid worker.

Additionally, Rudy’s has a lower priced menu of 16 items under $16 available to order.

“We realized we needed to change our target audience to meet the potential customers now facing uncertain financial times,” Kunke said.

What Other Businesses Are Doing

Kelly’s Home Center is thinking about families who are looking for productive learning activities during times of isolation from friends, coworkers and classmates. Kelly’s Cooking Center took their weekly cooking classes from

Kelly’s Cooking School preparing online content.

in-person to virtual on their Facebook page for free. The classes, featuring Bonnie Kelly, Chef Cleora and Chef Matt (from Hoss Soss), are for culinary enthusiasts and the casual foodie, alike.

Many businesses created sponsorship programs that allow other businesses to sponsor coffee or food for first responders in the health industry. Isaac’s Coffee, Wine & Dessert has had many sponsored coffee runs for the ICU nurses at Salem Health Tracy Belle, Sales Manager of loanDepot sponsored one such delivery.

Jenn Toth of ServPro South serves on multiple fronts during this time –not only as the Marketing Manager, but has been sewing face masks, making hand-sanitizer and delivering those much-needed resources to the community.

Summit Cleaning and Restoration specializes in serving a variety of facilities and residential houses and is prepared and able to disinfect facilities that may be contaminated by the coronavirus. They provide free estimates for cleaning and sanitizing services by navigating the best possible protocol.

Chef Matt on Kelly’s Cooking School on Facebook.

The Office Depot team at 2945 Liberty Rd. S. is offering free computer diagnostics to ensure working from home is as smooth as possible.

The Statesman Journal and Salem Reporter are offering coronavirus coverage free-of-charge to the public.

Salem Health asked for community volunteers to assist in sewing almost 10,000 masks in the wake of the pandemic, and the community answered. With two pick up times at the Town Park security booth (formerly the Kmart parking lot on Mission St.) and in Dallas at the

West Valley Hospital parking lot. The community showed up in full force to support, and the Salem station was out of mask kits in the first ten minutes, with volunteer-filled cars lined down the block.

Chamber Resources

In response to this major disruption to our economy, Facebook groups were created by Salem Chamber staff to reroute the demand for food, products and jobs to the known supply. You can join Salem Eats to stay up to date on popular restaurants for dine-in or deliveries. Salem Shops connects products for sale to an eager new market, and Salem Hires connects employers with those looking for work.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce has been hard at work to provide resources for the local business community and encourage businesses. The Business Resource Page, updated daily, shares the most relevant and timely updates on local and regional COVID-19 news.

Isaac’s Coffee, Wine & Dessert.

Visit SalemChamber.org to learn more about SBA Loans, PPP, guidelines for reopening, city, county and state resources and more.

Popular member programs have been reformatted for virtual meetings. Greeters, Salem’s premier networking program, can now be accessed via Facebook Live, and includes a Zoom interface so businesses can connect and recognize other member who go above and beyond in service to their clients and community. The Forum Speaker Series and Chamber Business Women meetings have also moved to Zoom for the time being.

Difficult times test business owners and their teams’ abilities to change. Champions rise to the top, seeking new and innovative ways to bring

value to their neighbors. Conveners sew a thread across cities and towns to bring our community together. The vital relationship between a strong business environment and thriving community is on full display in Marion and Polk Counties. Soon

we will be back to work, eating in our favorite restaurants and supporting our favorite local retailers. These are bright spots of Salem. 503.

Bry Taylor Campos

Clark County Fire Rescue Team wearing Vien To’s masks.

5 Signs You’re a Community Leader

Leadership comes in many forms, from those who inspire dedication and support to those who rule through fear and intimidation. A true leader is someone who can command those under them without having to resort to extreme tactics. Many great leaders share some common traits, so work to improve these qualities in yourself to establish yourself as a leader in your community.

A Vision for the Future

You won’t get very far as a community leader if you don’t have a destination in mind. In order to get your friends and neighbors to rally around you, they need to have a sense of what your goals are for the community. Take the time to think about what it is that you want for your neighborhood, and find out whether others share your vision. This way, you can all begin to work together towards a common goal.

Humility

One of the marks of a great leader is the ability to recognize when you don’t know something. Admitting that you need outside help or advice is not a sign of weakness but rather a show of wisdom. Just because you ask for help doesn’t make you any less of a leader. Of course, you don’t want to discount your own knowledge, as you have a unique perspective to offer your community. The key is to recognize when others are more qualified to handle certain tasks. True leaders know when to do the work themselves and when to delegate.

Charisma

Some people seem to have a quality about them that just draws people to them, even if you can’t pinpoint what it is exactly. You’ll need charisma to succeed as a community leader because you need to be able to persuade people to listen to what you have to say. Take every opportunity you can get to refine your public speaking and networking skills. As you continue to rise through the ranks of your community, you’ll need to draw on these skills more and more frequently.

Bringing Out the Best in Others

A true leader knows how to maximize other people’s strengths by encouraging and supporting them. Rather than clawing your way to the top by tearing down those around you, it is far better to build yourself up by building a strong team. With everyone working together, the entire team gains greater recognition, and as the leader, you’ll get the most recognition

of all. You’ll get greater loyalty from your team as well, as they’ll be more inclined to support you when they feel valued and that their skills are being put to good use.

Patience

You won’t become a community leader overnight, so you’ll need to have the patience necessary to gradually build your audience over time. If you take the time to get involved in your community and listen to what your peers are saying, you’ll establish yourself as an active member of society. Over time, your neighbors will start to get to know you and value your opinion. As you continue to grow and expand your influence, you’ll be well on your way to establishing yourself as a community leader.

There is no time like the present to start grooming yourself to become a pillar of your community. Focus on self-development and improving the community around you, and the rest will eventually fall into place. 503.

Ashlee Mecham: Caring for Salem and Each Other

“I haven’t been an Ambassador for too long – around two years. It gives an opportunity to meet new members and grants an avenue when talking about the Chamber. It helps to be an Ambassador, because I don’t feel like I’m pushing people to check out events the Chamber offers because I’ll be there too. I have commitments to be at things, and that results in communication and presence.”

Ashlee Mecham is an Oregon Licensed Broker with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Real Estate Professionals

Mecham and her husband moved to Salem in 2012 after he finished his time in the military and began school at Chemeketa Community College

Mecham established her business here, and by the time he graduated from Oregon State she was ready to call Salem home. He was hired by Garmin right out of college, and they

bought a home here.

Some of Mecham’s favorite businesses to support are Urban Block or Furbish, and Roth’s Fresh Markets and Ace also have great gift shops as well.

Mecham remarked being involved in the community helps her to be more invested in the place she lives. “[It] has allowed me to meet so many people and connect those people to the services they need because I’m more aware of what’s available. It’s [also] a great way to build community and friendships, and it helps me feel more connected to the place I live.”

“Half the people I see in the community are because I’ve been with the Chamber,” Mecham said.

“I do business with Chamber people – my insurance agent is a Chamber member I met at a Chamber event, and my financial advisor is a Chamber member I met at a Chamber event. And I recommend my clients to Chamber members. Everyone I know is from the Chamber.”

If Mecham could tell Salem businesses one thing about the Salem Chamber, it would be, “If you choose to take advantage of what the Chamber offers to its members, you’ll be welcomed into a group of people who care about Salem and each other, and who enjoy doing business with one another. And you might make some friends along the way!” 503.

Welcome Newest Chamber Members

Feb. 1 – June 30, 2020

LOCALiQ –

Logan Bartsch

Copper Creek

Mercantile

loanDepot

Caakes Unlimited

Saffron Supply Co.

M.C. White

Holding Co.

Youth With A Mission Salem

Bentley’s Coffee

Property Solutions NW

AN Signs & Designs

Kona Ice

NERUS Strategies, LLC

McGinty Belcher & Hamilton, Attorneys, P.C.

Apogee Events

The Inn At Spanish Head Resort Hotel

Ideal Option

Dakota Roofing

Bryant Malone of World Financial Group

Bridgeway Recovery Services, Inc.

Creative Imprints of Oregon, Inc.

First Tech Federal Credit Union

1 Day Signs

OnPoint Community

Credit Union

Doneth & Sturdivant

Wealth Advisors

Divine Distillers

Divine Disinfectant

Mill Creek Station & Catering

OnPoint Community

Credit Union – Keizer

Thrivent FinancialWillamette Associates

Basil & Board

Smooth South Block

The Fairway Apartments

Orchard Ridge Apartments

Keizer Station Apartments

Nest Self Storage-Hyacinth & Turner Road

La Familia

Cider House

Active Recovery TMS

Sidhu Group

Western Governors University

Acorn Dentistry for Kids

US Markets –All Locations

LS Networks

Dough Hook

Bake Shop

Dynasty Roofing, LLC

Interested in joining the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce?

For more information, contact Zachary Sielicky at zachary@salemchamber.org

With gang activity and increased disconnection of youth from nuclear family relationships, community leaders have come together to build bridges between our youth and their community. These bridges cultivate and nurture the hidden leadership qualities in our youth. The result is confident students who are committed to having a positive leadership role

within their schools and community.

The two-year program introduces over 40 students to the realities, opportunities and challenges facing our region. The knowledge and experience that youth gain will enable

Students touring Don Pancho Authentic Mexican Foods.

them to grow and become involved in helping to shape a positive future for our community.

Please join us in recognizing and congratulating our Leadership Youth Class of 2020! Each participants name is listed, with the school they represent, the board of directors they served on, and three words their classmates used to describe them!

Jessica Amaro

North, The Inspire Foundation

Enjoyable, Warm, Wonderful

Angelo Arredondo

South, United Way

Supportive, Remarkable, Protective

Yolani Cardenas

McNary, Keizer Chamber of Commerce/Keizer Foundation/ Iris Festival

Ox Carlsen

North, Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Leader, Giving, Charming

Quin Clarkson South, Center for Hope & Safety

Focused, Intelligent, Fabulous

Jordan Cousineau McKay, Oregon State Hospital Museum

Intelligent, Interesting, Captivating

Roberto Garces-Mendez

South, Salem Police Foundation Fantastic, Honest, Ambitious

Andrew Hill Blanchet, Marion Polk Food Share

Faithful, Charming, Amazing

Lyssa Ibarra

Blanchet, Latino Business Alliance

Compassionate, Talented, Leader

Andrew Kalmen

McKay, The Inspire Foundation Admire, Caring, Sincere

Isabelle Knorr

South, Community Action Agency

Nice, Gentle, Compassionate

Jevyn Lunsford-Lima Sprague, CCTV Amazing, Compassionate, Brave

Raquel Marquez McKay, Oregon State Hospital Museum

Smart, Tender, Terrific

James Moore Blanchet, UGM

Funny, Passionate, Talented

Anji Olofin

Salem Academy, Liberty House Sincere, Accepting, Enjoyable

Angelique Prater

South, Salem Keizer Education Foundation

Sweet, Amazing, Friendly

Mariela Saldana

Blanchet, Simply Birthdays

Sweet, Gracious, Loving

Edgar Salazar McNary, YMCA

Strong, Great, Brave

Eddi Ojeda Sierra South, Liberty House Trusting, Wonderful, Committed

Olivia Sproed

South, Salem Leadership Foundation

Magical, Terrific, Approachable

Madi Swanson

Sprague, Salem Area Chamber of Commerce

Enjoyable, Considerate, Bighearted

Katie Tuttle

Blanchet, YMCA

Caring, Creative, Passionate

Nathan Witters

Salem Academy, Maps Community Foundation

Strong, Funny, Fearless

Isabella Wunderlich

Sprague, Salem Keizer Education Foundation

Smart, Determined, Humble

Baylor York Salem Academy, Salem Fire Foundation

Charming, Genuine, Marvelous

Alan Costic AC + Co Architecture

Kathy Gordon

Aldrich CPA’s and Advisors, LLP

Scott Hossner Allied Video

Amazon Fulfillment Center

Andy Medcalf

Andy Medcalf Construction

Eric Templeton

AmeriTitle

Warren Bednarz BAR Industries, LLC

Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield

Doug Parham Boldt, Carlisle & Smith, LLC

David Lewis Capital Manor Retirement Community

Scott Casebeer Capitol Auto Group, Inc.

Cory Redding

C. D. Redding Construction, Inc.

Education Leadership Council

Its mission is to develop and provide leadership, to work jointly with business, community and government interests to ensure balanced decision making in maintaining Salem’s vitality and livability.

It is a forum where private business owners, CEOs and top business decision-makers can learn and share ideas about business, community, and government.

Executive Leadership Council meetings are held on a quarterly basis.

Jessica Howard Chemeketa Community College

Barry Kessinger Chinook Winds Casino Resort

Mayor Chuck Bennett City of Salem

Ryan W. Collier Collier Law

Ken Jundt Columbia Bank

Community Action Agency

Sheldon Nord Corban University

Country Financial

John Miller Courthouse Club Fitness

Scott Sadler Creative Conflict Solutions

Creekside Golf Club

Scott Dalke Dalke Construction Company

Don Pancho Authentic Mexican Foods

Patricia Callihan-Bowman Express Employment Professionals

Stephen Joye Fischer, Hayes, Joye & Allen, LLC

Rick Day Focus Consulting, LLC

Paul Dakopolos Garret, Hemann, Robertson, P.C.

John Hawkins Grove, Mueller, & Swank, P.C.

Lorissa Addabbo Hope Orthopedics

TJ Sullivan Huggins Insurance Bliss Sequoia

Mike Litwin Illahe Hills Country Club

Mel Jones JE Dunn

Jennifer Jordan Kaiser Permanente

Joel Blount

Keudell/Morrison Wealth Management

Tommy Walker KeyBank

Terry Kuenzi Kuenzi & Company, LLC

Mark Zook Maps Credit Union

Edward E. Davis Maps Insurance

Marion County

Vincenzo Meduri Meduri World Delights

Jason Tokarski Mountain West Investment Corp.

Connor Reiten NW Natural

On Point Community Credit Union

Drs. Bud & Selma Pierce

Wendy Veliz Portland General Electric

Power Fleet & Commercial Sales

Rich Duncan Rich Duncan Construction

Tim Jennings Alex Roth

Roth’s Fresh Markets

Randy Cook Saalfeld Griggs, P.C.

Christy Witzke SAIF Corporation

Leilani Slama Salem Health

Christy Perry

Salem Keizer Public Schools

Allan Pollock Salem Keizer Transit

R.A. Neitzel Salem Radiology

Mike Basinger Select Impressions

Mark C. Hoyt Sherman, Sherman, Johnnie & Hoyt , LLP

Sidhu Group

Skyline Video Productions

Jenny Moore Spirit Mountain Casino

Ted Ferry State Farm

Tom Yang T-Mobile

Tim Fahndrich Third River Marketing

Tammy Morkert Umpqua Bank

Ryan Allbritton U.S. Bank

Steve Johnson VIPS Industries

Walmart

Wells Fargo Bank

Mark Fox White Oak Construction

Hoffman Construction

Steve Horning

Willamette Community Bank

Tyson Pruett

Doty Pruett Wilson, P.C.

Richard Withnell Withnell Motor Company

Christy Witzke: Making a Difference

Just like every little four-year-old girl, I always wanted to either be a fairy princess or work in insurance. Well, we all know the first part is true, but I didn’t know anything about workers’ comp insurance until after college (Go Beavs!). I started my career with SAIF in 1994 as a marketing technician because it looked like there could be future opportunities. Nearly 26 years later, SAIF has proved they did have those opportunities – not only to grow in my career, but also to work for an organization with a mission to help Oregon businesses and workers.

Having raised my children in Salem and working for SAIF (which is headquartered in Salem), I felt it was important both personally and professionally to actively participate in an organization that is truly making a difference in the community. As long as no one does the math, I’ll admit I participated in the Chamber’s Inspire Foundation Leadership Salem program in 2006 (why does that sound like so long ago?) and have felt the Mike McLaran pull to be involved ever since.

Giving back to the community is an important part of my personal goals, and what better organization to serve on the Board of Directors than one that helps businesses, educational institutions, nonprofits, and the community grow and prosper. I see the Salem Chamber as the “total package.”

I just started this past June, but in that short time I’ve learned Salem has an incredibly dedicated group of professionals

profoundly invested in making Salem a thriving business community and a great place to live. I am very honored to now be a part of this group.

What’s my favorite part about serving on the Board? The coffee on board meeting days! Did you know the meetings start at 7:00 a.m.? Actually, my favorite part is working with other board members and learning more about Salem, how we can make a difference, hearing diverse points of view, and solving problems.

Years ago, when I had just received a promotion, I had a mentor who gave me a framed picture with the following verse:

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

–Galatians 6:9

I don’t know if he was trying to indicate that I needed to work on my patience or that the new role was going to be a challenge. In either case, he was right, and so was the verse!

The top three issues I believe are facing the Salem community are:

• Impacts of the pandemic

• Homelessness

• Traffic congestion and the ongoing need for a third bridge

Local businesses need to continue to work together in conjunction with city and state entities to problem solve and search for solutions to these issues. None of them are easy or quickly fixed (as we well know with the third bridge issue) and with the unprecedented changes that have occurred in Salem, and throughout the world, because of the pandemic, we will need to be even more vigilant to come together despite competing needs for the good of the community.

In my vision for the Chamber, I would like to see the membership levels grow to the likes we have never seen and be recognized as “The Chamber,” not only in the state of Oregon, but throughout the nation. We will be the chamber that others look to because we:

• effectively work with government and community leaders to come to positive outcomes in very difficult situations, because we have built solid relationships that can handle strong debate and yet move forward

• are able to grow community and business leaders through their fantastic leadership programs... and these leaders want to stay in Salem because it is thriving and has many opportunities both socially and professionally

• have fun while making a difference! 503.

Salem: Being a Beacon of Light by

It’s been over 60 days since we have been under quarantine. For all, social distancing has been somewhat of a challenge. There are those working from home, those who are considered “essential” and therefore still reporting to their place of work and those who have lost jobs. Somehow, we still found a way to come together, “gather” and continue to support one another.

Yes, Salem Chamber Greeters continues to gather each Friday. Oh, don’t worry, we are practicing safe social distancing. Over the last month and half of Fridays, we have gone virtual. Each Friday – thanks to Zoom, Facebook Live and Third River Marketing – we are able to continue to host Greeters. It’s not how it normally looks, no, but that spirit in which we have always come together, hear how another business is doing, and how others are doing still happens.

For me as the chair, it’s felt a little bittersweet. It’s been an adjustment for me. It feels a bit strange to be in my home, talking to the camera in my phone and seeing all my friends on a screen, rather than standing in their presence, holding a microphone, and feeling the energy they all bring. This is a group that arrives each week in support of one another, each Friday we’re continuing to do just that, it just looks a little different.

But Salem is different. I have not doubt there are cities across the country bringing their communities together in support of each other. That said, I believe

here, we just do it better.

We are a city that humbles itself in times of adversity, we stand strong in grace and integrity. We recognize at the end of the day, when it’s all said and done, we are more than the businesses we own or represent. We are friends, family and neighbors. We know this city isn’t its businesses or the architecture but the heartbeat of every person living here. This is what makes us great. This is what makes us better than the rest.

There isn’t one person unaffected by the COVID-19 quarantine. We all feel the impact to varying degrees. Whilst I’m doing my part to heed the call to “socially distance” I’m standing in witness to members of this community rising as champions. These are ordinary people, doing extraordinary things in a time where things seem so dark. These people are you, your neighbors, your friends and your family rising to the call to support one another.

Restaurants that remained open in limited capacity, uncertain of what their future holds, are still taking opportunities to donate to the front lines. To our health care workers, first responders, working tirelessly to keep us safe and healthy.

I’m seeing those who have been laid off or having to work from home, volunteer their time to make masks, or deliver food

Naomi Tillery

to those in need, finding ways to rise up and meet the needs during this time.

Ultimately, I’m seeing is this city do what I know in my heart it would always do, rise up from the ashes and be the beacon of light to all those who look upon us.

This COVID-19 hasn’t stopped this city. On the contrary, it has inspired this city and opened the doors and created opportunities. We may have been knocked down, but we stand up, dust ourselves off and carry on.

What will Salem look like when the quarantine lifts? Hard to say but I can tell you it’s gonna shine a whole lot brighter than it did before. We will have redefined the word CHAMPION.

When the dust settles, we look at the new normal we have created and we will have so much to be proud of.

I can most assuredly say there is no where else I’d rather “shelter in place” than here in the City of Champions, Salem, Oregon.

Persuasion

When many people think of persuasion, images of sleazy, unscrupulous salespeople often come to mind. While their methods can be quite persuasive, there are other ways to convert others to your way of thinking or doing things without them feeling as though they are getting ripped off. In the persona of a servant leader, for example, you can accomplish persuasion through active listening, building personal connections and explaining the facts.

Servant leadership is a leadership style that involves keeping the focus on serving others. In the business world, this means your customers. As you make decisions regarding the direction your organization will take going forward, your ultimate goal should always be to better serve your clientele. In some cases, this may mean choosing routes that may not be as profitable for the business, but will result in greater customer satisfaction and loyalty. In the long run, this will have more value for your organization than merely picking up a few extra sales today.

In order to convince people of something,

you need to understand their starting point. This way, you can guide them on their journey to understanding that your perspective makes the most sense. To do this, listen to what your team is saying. Each member of your team brings a unique perspective, and ensure you take all viewpoints into account. When your employees feel heard and understood, they will feel more confident in trusting your judgment.

Emotions play major roles in the decisionmaking process, even when we try our best to be as objective as possible. This is why personal stories can be so powerful when it comes to persuading people. When people feel an emotional connection, they experience a more powerful drive to take action, and you can use this power in your favor to motivate your team. Make sure personal stories you share are relevant to the discussion at hand, and always ask for permission in advance if you intend to share someone else’s story.

In many cases, people struggle to make decisions or take action because they

feel as though they don’t have all the facts. Try to be as transparent and honest with your team as possible so they feel kept in the loop. Of course, there may be times when you need to keep some details to yourself for confidentiality or security purposes, but do your best to share as much information as you can. The more informed your employees are, the easier it will be for them to support your way of thinking.

People respond to persuasive tactics in different ways, so take stock of how effective your methods have been thus far. You may need to make adjustments to have the greatest success. Over time, though, you and your team will gain a better understanding of each other, enabling you to continue to work together seamlessly going forward. As you strengthen your company culture and the bonds among your team members, you’ll require less and less persuasion to get everyone on board, as they’ll already be right there with you, ready to get to work.

– The Chamber Team