Women in Business - Snoqualmie Valley 2014

W

2014

omen in Business

Carol Ladwig/Staff Photo

A supplement to the Snoqualmie Valley Record

Asking the right questions

The sweet life

Instant connector

Growing young readers

What do local businesses really want? Peggy McNamara, new president of the Carnation Chamber of Commerce, shares what she’s learned helping others find success.

See page 10

Sharon Nikko, co-owner of Snoqualmie Falls Candy Factory, looks back on her career and its lessons.

North Bend resident Bev Jorgensen keeps making friendships through both her home-decor mailorder job, and as the chairwoman of Snoqualmie Valley Relay for Life.

See page 12

With stories and songs, and a love of kids’ books, Snoqualmie Children’s Librarian Jenifer Loomis helps start Valley youth on the road to literacy.

See page 11

See page 13

Upping their game Women in Business creating growth, opportunity for sixth year It’s a new year for Snoqualmie Valley Women In Business, an organization dedicated to creating opportunities for collaboration, networking, personal growth and community leadership for local business women.

Now in its sixth year, Women in Business has adopted the theme of “Up Your Game” for the year, and continues to fine-tune its offerings to meet the needs of nearly 100 members, like the networking exercise that’s been added to each meeting, or the social event and accessory swap planned for June 17 at Glass & Bottle on Snoqualmie Ridge.

“We’re trying to do more after-hours events,” said membership co-chairperson Michelle Comeau, “and you don’t have to be a member to come.”

Upcoming events include after-hours gatherings July 15, Aug. 13 and Sept. 16, at Pogacha in Issaquah, Big Fish in the Issaquah Highlands and Sigillo Cellars, respectively, plus the monthly lunch meetings July 9 and Sept. 10 at the organization’s new "home" Boxley’s Place in North Bend.

The group is also narrowing its focus in the area of community leadership. After launching the community kindness Pay it Forward campaign in 2012, Women in Business realized they had to “streamline” their community involvement, as membership cochair Mary Lou Dreher put it. “So many of us here are already involved in community projects.”

Pay it Forward is still a project for Women in Business, but the Kiwanis Club is taking the lead, said project founder Debby Peterman. The ladies will do a food drive and clothing drive for the week, set for some time this fall, but will keep its primary focus on its annual high school scholarship awards, and semiannual support of OneVoice events.

As the group continues to grow and evolve, look for one thing not to change. "That’s the thing our members have told us, the networking is critical."

Learn more about Snoqualmie Valley Women in Business at www.svwib.com. Or, follow the group on Facebook.

WWW.VALLEYRECORD.COM

Asking the right questions Chamber President wants to hear from local businesses

BY CAROL LADWIG Staff Reporter

Throughout much of her career, Peggy McNamara has had the answers, or at least known where to find them. She has been a corporate director of education, a real estate agent and “kind of a clean-up girl” brought in to restructure struggling offices. She teaches online classes on real estate, and in the past year, she finished a major reorganization of the Acres of Diamonds women’s shelter in Duvall. In her newest volunteer role, though, McNamara has none of the answers, “but lots of questions,” she says.

McNamara, a Carnation resident for four years, was elected president of the Carnation Chamber of Commerce in March, and since then, she’s been working steadily on answering the biggest question facing the group: What do its members, numbering only in the 50s although the city reports more than 300 businesses total, want?

“I think for a Chamber, especially this size of a Chamber, one of the greatest challenges is what do we do to bring value to the business owners,” she said, “and how can we really help them?”

A slightly different version of that question — how she, herself could help an organization in town as a volunteer — is what brought her to the Chamber earlier this year.

She’d just resigned as the interim director of Acres of Diamonds (she’s still on the board) and was ready to volunteer her energies somewhere else, she explained, so she went to Kim Lisk, then-president of the Chamber, chairperson of the Carnation 4th of July Celebration, and owner of Swim with Kim. “I said, ‘Hey Kim, there are three things in town that are looking for help. One is the Swiftwater (HOA), one is the Fourth of July, and one is the Carnation Chamber. So where am I most needed?’” McNamara said. “And she said ‘The Carnation Chamber,’ and that’s how I got involved!”

Actually, it’s how she got invested. McNamara was elected president at the first meeting she ever attended of the Chamber. She laughs and says she knew it would happen that way — not because she was a shoo-in, but because she’d talked with Lisk, and because most small organizations struggle to find people willing to commit to greater involvement, and the Chamber had been fairly inactive for several years.

Now, three months into the job, McNamara said she is making a more conscious effort to meet the local business owners and “it’s been really interesting getting to know people.”

PEGGY MCNAMARA There’s a lot more of that ahead for McNamara and the Chamber as a whole, she expects, as they essentially rebuild the organization.

“We want to put into words our value proposition,” McNamara said, and to do that, “I hope to start having conversations at the social, and certainly it requires conversations with the members.”

The social, a free event for members and prospective members June 19 at the Dog Mountain Farm to Table Store, is part of the multi-pronged approach McNamara is using to bring new energy to the Chamber. A new database and a revised Chamber website, due to launch this month will help improve communications, she said, and she hopes to host an educational event this fall, once she find out from the business owners what they’d like to see.

Revitalizing a small Chamber of Commerce seems like an uphill battle, but McNamara is undaunted, and even optimistic.

“There are three or four new businesses in Carnation in the last few months … and that’s really encouraging to see those open up,” she said.

Learn more at http://carnationchamber.com, or stop by the social, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday June 19 at the Dog Mountain Farm to Table Store, previously Sliders, on Tolt Avenue in Carnation.

Monica Antone

Johnetta (Jet) Renkert

JOHN L. SCOTT-NORTH BEND

JET’S GYMNASTICS EXPRESS

301 W. North Bend Way • North Bend 425-922-2336 • msantone@msn.com

425.888.0349 www.jetsgymnasticsexpress.com My name is Johnetta (Jet) Renkert and I own this amazing business.

Jet’s Gymnastics Express is a mobile gymnastics program and we have been teaching gymnastics in the Snoqualmie Valley and on the Eastside for over 30 years. Our program is designed for those children who would like a well rounded and safe environment for learning gymnastics. We pride ourselves on teaching sound, basic skills while having a fun and positive experience!!

In addition to gymnastics lessons, our services include: birthday parties, private lessons, summer camps and special events.

1075373

Having grown up in the Northwest and resided in the Snoqualmie Valley for many years I have appreciated the beauty of our natural surroundings and the benefits of raising a family in our growing bedroom community.

My husband, Tom, and I owned and operated John L. Scott Real Estate for over 30 years. In 2010, we transitioned out of ownership but have continued to work for John L. Scott in the same location in North Bend. I am grateful to have been selected as one of the ‘Best of the Valley’ in 2012, and also honored to have been selected as a Five-Star Real Estate Broker, appearing in the December, “Best of 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2013” issues of the Seattle Magazine, having been chosen for overall satisfaction of services.

Experience, knowledge of the area and a commitment to ongoing education enables me to best serve my clients. Customer satisfaction is first and foremost and it has been a privilege to have assisted so many with their real estate needs over the years.

Thank you!

“ We Bring the Gym to You!”

1075698

10 • June 18, 2014 • Snoqualmie Valley Record

WWW.VALLEYRECORD.COM

2014

Catch up with Sharon Nikko, co-owner of Snoqualmie’s venerable Candy Factory

BY CAROL LADWIG Staff Reporter

The question wasn’t meant as a joke, but Sharon Nikko couldn’t stop laughing after being asked how her employees like working at the Snoqualmie Falls Candy Factory.

“I don’t know, we’ll have to ask!” she finally said, still chuckling, then she called out, “Hey, Barb! She’s asking me if my employees enjoy working here!”

Barb McClain an employee of 16 years, gave her employer an exasperated smile and said, “That’s a silly question!”

“Hey Cam, do you enjoy working here?” Nikko asked another staffer.

Cam Pham who’s been making candy at the shop for 20 years — two years longer than Nikko and her husband, Wes Sorstokke have owned the business — shrugged off the question. “Yes! That’s why I’m here!”

“They’re wonderful people to work for,” added

taffy, nut brittles from the same recipes his parents had used running their own candy shop in San Francisco, and they still use those recipes today.

“I didn’t change a thing,” Nikkos said. “It’s really very much the same place it was 16 years ago. I think he had a good thing going, and we carried it on.”

She did reject one of LaFranci’s ideas, though, for the cafe side of the business. “He just did candy,” she said, “…and he told us, ‘Oh, you don’t want to do (the cafe), you just want to rent that out to somebody else.’ and I looked at it and thought ‘No, I think I will take that!’”

After all, she laughed, “It’s what I do.”

For most of Nikko’s life, she’s been doing some type of restaurant or service work, going back to when she graduated from Issaquah High School. Her first job was bank clerk, and her next was waitress. She was a checker at Safeway, and, in a very exciting stage of her career at Safeway, she was chosen as one of 13 checkers to open the corporation’s first barcode-scanner store in the state.

Cashier experience, she thinks, is what got her the job, “and maybe they were looking for a certain personality.”

That’s what Nikko looks for when she’s hiring for the store.

There are usually about eight part-time people on staff, and a few more in the busy summers, and each of them has to have something that makes them stand out.

SEE NIKKO, 12

Patricia Bennett

Michelle Reaves

PC Bennett SOLUtIOnS

CEDAR FALLS AUTOMOTIVE

PO Box 498 • North Bend, WA 98045 425-831-7924 • www.pcbennett.com

425-417-8261 • North Bend www.cedarfallsautomotive.com

PC Bennett Solutions was founded in 2002 to provide software solutions to manage businesses from end to end. Today, their growing team helps businesses throughout the Northwest become more efficient and profitable by setting up advanced, yet cost effective technology systems to help them run their business and operations. They are committed to high ethical standards and the highest quality service possible. In May 2014, PC Bennett Solutions was named one of the 50 Eastside Fastest Growing Companies by Puget Sound Business Journal.

When that warning light starts blinking on your dashboard, call Michelle. When you notice an odd smell coming from your car’s engine, just call.

Cedar Falls Automotive Owner/Manager Michelle Reaves runs every aspect of the family owned automotive repair and service business except turning the wrenches...and sometimes she even does that too! Since 2009, Michelle and her staff’s only goal is to make your automobile run smoother and make your life a little easier. When all you need is an oil change or an entire engine replaced, Cedar Falls’ highly skilled technicians offer comprehensive knowledge and experience, and provide you with the very best in automotive service at the best rates - all without wasting your precious time. Minutes from downtown North Bend, Cedar Falls Automotive is your best local source for professional, reliable and affordable automotive Like us on service and repair. Call today!

Facebook for

PC Bennett supports organizations that strengthen communities and the environment we all live in. They are a long-time corporate sponsor of Encompass, a non-profit organization in the Snoqualmie Valley supporting early childhood programs, the Boxley Music Fund, and local school programs.

With her passion for business and creativity, Patricia is uniquely qualified to help customers with their specific needs.

“We take our 3 vehicles to Cedar Falls Automotive and have always received outstanding service. Owners Ken and Michelle keep us completely informed in a timely manner. I don’t think they take any days off if there is a car there that needs work! They are very affordable, and we would recommend anyone in or near the Snoqualmie Valley give them a try – We’ve never been disappointed.”- Daniel L., North Bend, WA

End To End Business Software

Laure Anne Wilbert

Brenna Shoultz

RED OAK SENIOR HOUSING

PET PLACE MARKET

650 East North Bend Way • North Bend 425-888-7108 • redoakresidence.com

213 Bendigo Blvd. N. • North Bend 425-888-8828 • www.petplacemarket.com

STANDING BY SENIORS THROUGH GOOD TIMES AND BAD

Cedar Fal ASE Cer Domestic an

At Pet Place Market our mission is to provide pets in the Snoqualmie Valley with a healthy choice. We carry over 25 lines of Dog and Cat food, Raw Food, Chicken Feed, Domestic, Wild Bird and Reptile food, including crickets and meal worms, as well as numerous different lines for small animals. Our expert staff is on hand 7 days a week to help answer questions and ensure your pet is getting the best option they can. Also, don’t forget to stop by and check out our Self Service Dog Wash!

1075371

Voted Best Senior Care Provider in Snoqualmie Valley since 2004 Created to blend the best attributes of the Pacific Northwest, Red Oak Residence mixes local beauty, service and friendly companionship in order to offer a smaller, more personal retirement community. Red Oak has 50 spacious independent living apartments, in a choice of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom plans.

In addition, assisted living is available.

Stop by and take a tour!

Car Care Tips & Special Offers!

1076734

Sweet life

McClain, w h o s e daughter has also worked at the shop for many years.

So maybe it was a dumb question.

What could possibly be the downside of working in a candy factory, surrounded by bright colors and mouthwatering smells all day?

Not much, SHARON NIKKO if you ask Nikko, but then, she knew she wanted to run the candy factory as soon as she saw it in 1996. They bought it from Paul LaFranci, who produced hand-made caramel corn, fudge,

Visit our website at www.petplacemarket.com for more information.

1075372

Women in Business

Snoqualmie Valley Record • June 18, 2014 • 11

www.ceda

Instant connection

WWW.VALLEYRECORD.COM

Later, she worked in the Mount Si Transitional Learning Center to help older students, aged 18 to 21, get ready for adult life.

Raising her son, Greg, who is now 26, and was born with Down’s Syndrome, prepared her for this work. She also took classes to grow her skills. Yet even with a full-time school job, it was tough making ends meet as a single mom.

“When my husband died, I had three boys at home. The youngest was 5,” she said. “It brought us together tight as a family. The boys had to do some growing up that most kids don’t need to do right away... I learned I had a lot of support people around me. It made me more aware of and appreciative of my community. I had a lot of people to pull me up when I needed it.”

North Bend home-based businesswoman Bev Jorgensen helps Relay for Life, makes her own mail-order path

Always bring a box of tissues to the Relay for Life committee meeting, says Bev Jorgensen, half-jokingly.

There’s often a few tears and a lot of stories to share.

Jorgensen, a 27-year North Bend resident, a local businesswoman and chairwoman of the Snoqualmie Valley Relay for Life, knows the bittersweet nature of her chosen cause.

Thanks to Relay, she frequently makes an instant connection with people.

“People have a tendency to come to you because you’re wearing that Relay hat,” she said. “They know you’re going to support them, you’re not going to be afraid, push them aside.”

For her, this calling brings rewards of the heart.

“It’s such a blessing,” she said, “watching people be able to see the light, see there are people who care.”

For the last eight years, Jorgensen has been the well-known local face of the PartyLite mail order business. Before that, as a newly widowed mother of three, she worked with special education students as an employee of the Snoqualmie Valley School District. She has coached youth soccer and worked as a supervisor for a few Valley restaurants.

PartyLite relationships

Working in the Valley Jorgensen and her family moved to the Valley from Wyoming in BEV JORGENSEN 1987. Today, “it’s home. I would never leave,” she said.

Her family’s life soon changed. Bev’s husband, Carl, died in 1992. Raising three sons, she had been mainly a mom until that point.

She was working for a restaurant at the outlet mall, part time, as an assistant manager. Prior to that, she had helped Mar-T Cafe owner Pat Cokewell as a supervisor.

“I worked there for a year when the Twin Peaks craze hit,” Jorgensen said. “She was overwhelmed.”

The line out the door, of people wanting a cup of coffee or a piece of pie from the cult show, would stretch to the railroad tracks. “It was crazy!”

After Carl died, she had to make a change. Jorgensen went to the Snoqualmie Valley School District, where she started as a substitute teacher, then worked as a support employee for the special education program. She got full-time status in 1993.

At Mount Si High School, she worked in classrooms to help students “who needed an extra push.”

NIKKO FROM 11 “You’ve got to start with personality,” Nikko said.

“You can train them to do nearly anything, but you need … someone who thinks work is fun.”

Especially at the Candy Factory, she said, because people come there for more than the hand-made caramel corn, fudge, taffy, nut brittles, and other sweet treats.

“I tell employees that customers usually come here to have fun. They bring their kids and they want their kids to have a fun time,” she said, “so I just tell (employees) to be natural and have fun.”

The shop has seen very little employee turn-

over in Nikko’s tenure, and she’s grateful for that, since she worked so hard to keep it that way.

She was used to juggling more than one job at a time, so when the store needed to downsize three years ago, it was actually an easy decision for her.

“We had too many employees,” she said.

“Really, somebody had to go. But I really liked all of my employees, and I really didn’t want to lay off anybody, so I thought, ‘ok, I’ll go.’ So I went out and got a second job, and kept the employees.”

Her second job, also considered full time, is in sales at Macy’s. It’s a nice change of pace from the shop, where she serves as bookkeeper and weekend cashier, but not the

Londi Lindell • Gina Estep • Susie Oppedal

“retirement job” she used to dream about.

“What’s funny is years ago, when I was working hard in grocery stores, I thought, ‘I can’t wait till I’m older, when I can retire and just have this easy job at Bon Marche where I’d be standing there folding towels.’ Now that I’m there, I know that’s not a true picture!”

Hard work is not a problem for Nikko, who is used to multiple jobs, or, in the case of the candy store, two jobs in one. Her double workload even includes the 21 years she worked at Safeway’s corporate offices, in the IT department. “While I worked at Safeway, I also had a second job waittressing,” she recalls, with a deep sigh. “I can’t wait to

retire!” she says with another laugh.

Nikko isn’t entirely sure what retirement will look like, but said “Wes will definitely sing (in a popular barbershop quartet) and coach, and I will definitely have more time in my yard… that needs attention.”

She’s also not sure when it will happen, partly because she really enjoys her work—all of it. “Your work ethic never changes,” she said.

“You’re always trying to make things better…. and in order to own a business you have to be really passionate about what you do. If I didn’t love this, I’d be out of here.”

Learn more www.snofallscandy.com, 8102 Railroad Ave. S.E., Snoqualmie, (425) 888-0439.

Nancy Wray

CITY OF NORTH BEND

BIRCHES HABITAT / THE ARTY PARTY PLACE

211 Main Avenue N.• 425-888-1211 http://northbendwa.gov

202 North Bend Way • DT North Bend • 425.292.9390

www.bircheshabitat.com • wwwtheartypartyplace.com Birches Habitat is a lifestyle store with unique gifts, contemporary apparel, northwest decor, cards and books. The Arty Party business is a new venture. Break out the artist in you (even if you think you can’t even draw a stick figure!) and have a great time with friends, families or co-workers.

No need for any art experience or special talent, we provide your canvas, paint, brushes and easy to follow instructions.

All we need is you & your enthusiasm.

Take home a painting created by you and memories of a really fun night!

1075376

North Bend’s management team includes three women with plenty of municipal business savvy.

Londi Lindell, the City Administrator is responsible for working effectively with the Mayor to implement the City Council’s vision and policy and generally run the day to day operations of the city. Londi has over 19 years’ experience in municipal management, and is also a licensed Washington State attorney.

Gina Estep, Community and Economic Development Director oversees the city’s planning and building departments and Economic Development. Gina is responsible for the branding and recreational tourism campaign, block party, together with many new outdoor recreation events and other economic development related efforts. Gina has over 18 years experience as a City Planner and Municipal Manager.

Susie Oppedal, City Clerk, serves as the clerk of the City Council providing public access to city records, the administration, and the policy-making processes. Susie also effectively manages the city’s contracts, public records requests, claims, special event permits, and central services.

North Bend is extremely fortunate to have these talented women in municipal leadership positions.

Ending her work day at 3 o’clock, she headed out to the soccer field, where she coached. There were a lot of late nights due to games. “It was taking a toll on me, and a toll on the boys, because they needed a mom.”

Jorgensen had watched friends go into direct sales. Soon, she was exploring the idea of going into the mail-order business herself. Today, she has been a saleswoman with PartyLite home-decor business for eight years. She’s found great success in this line.

In 2006, when Greg finished school, his mother retired from the district. “We graduated together,” she said.

Since then, Jorgensen has worked for PartyLite, and the Snoqualmie Valley Relay for Life has been her charitable focus.

For women thinking about trying the mail-order business for yourself, Jorgensen has some tips.

“Search for the one that’s going to fit you,” she said. “Do your homework. Make sure you’re not getting into something that’s going to cost you more than what you’re making, because there are some that will do that. If you’re going to make an investment, make it wisely and don’t take it out of your family budget.”

“My biggest reward is the relationships that have been built throughout,” Jorgensen said. “I have so many friends, who have become my closest friends, that I’ve only met by doing PartyLite.”

Right now, her main impact on the Valley comes from her work as the event chairwoman for the Relay for Life. She works with “an incredible committee” that has become like family to her.

“Everybody takes their role very seriously,” Jorgensen said. “We have very compassionate people.”

The best way for newcomers to Relay for Life to get started is to hop on a team.

“If you want to feel the waters, you can find a team that’s already there,” Jorgensen said. There are 38 teams signed up for the Snoqualmie Valley Relay for Life on July 12. The goal for 2014 is 40.

• You can learn more about Snoqualmie Valley Relay for Life at snovalleyrelay.org.

bircheshabitat ECLECTIC SOULFUL LIVING

facebook/people & facebook/pages

1075368

12 • June 18, 2014 • Snoqualmie Valley Record

Growing young readers Meet Snoqualmie Children’s Librarian Jenifer Loomis

BY SETH TRUSCOTT Editor

Jenifer Loomis comes over with a pile of children’s books in her arms.

Monkeys, rabbits, bears, awkward kids and cartoon superheroes gaze out from the colorful covers. These aren’t old classics, either, these are the latest hot children’s books. And Loomis, as the Snoqualmie Library’s Children’s Librarian, is making sure kids and parents know all about them.

“Grown-ups just need to check out the kids’ section,” she says. “If you haven’t looked at what there is, you’re missing out.”

Loomis has been introducing reading to Valley children, through storytimes, songs and lots of one-on-one time, since 2005.

What’s a good day for her?

“If I’ve had a chance to work directly with kids, shared a book with them, answered a question, encouraged them to feel like the library is a welcoming place,” Loomis said. “If a parent comes up after story time and tells me, ‘That was really fun!’”

Getting started Loomis fell into this career serendipitously.

“I was one of those people

Snoqualmie Valley Record • June 18, 2014 • 13

rhymes and songs—when that lights their fire, they’re going to want to read. They see that learning is fun. That’s the key to being a lifelong learner and reader.”

Loomis is certain there are more people in the Valley who could benefit from library programs.

Great readers

who was interested in too many different things,” she said. “I kept changing my major.”

She ended up majoring in French, but, without an advanced degree, she wasn’t any closer to a specific career.

“That led to some soulsearching,” said Loomis. In a conversation with a friend, libraries came up. Loomis then met a librarian, and her enthusiasm was contagious.

Soon, she was enrolled for a new degree at the University of Washington.

“That landed me in a great area for libraries,” she said.

“King County Library System is the cream of the crop, one of the biggest and busiest in the nation.”

A lot of study goes into becoming a librarian. It starts with the requisite graduatelevel degree.

“There’s a lot that goes into that conversation with someone, when they come up to you and say, I need X,” Loomis said. “Oftentimes, X is not what they need. You have to get a clear idea of what it is they’re seeking. That’s an art.

Connecting a book to the right person requires a lot of listening and dialogue, as well as knowing the books—whether you’ve read them yourself or are just aware of something.

None of us read everything.”

With so many wide interests, Loomis at first thought she’d be a reference librarian— “you get all kinds of questions, it’s fascinating.”

Seth Truscott/Staff Photo

Snoqualmie children’s librarian Jenifer Loomis shows some favorites.

But a class to fill a gap in her schedule put her on a different path. Dr. Margaret Read MacDonald, children’s librarian at Bothell, taught that class on storytelling, and for Loomis, it was transformational.

Loomis discovered that she wanted to work with children, and get kids excited about books and stories.

She started with a substitute shift at the Redmond Library, while doing children’s story times on a contract basis at Sammamish’s library.

That booming community, with its many young families—and parallels to Snoqualmie—honed her gifts. When a full-time children’s position opened up at Snoqualmie in the spring of 2005, she took it.

In those days, stories were told at the old, small library downtown.

“I am always excited when I see patrons who have been with us since then,” she said.

“They made the trek to the old library, and came on up here when we opened the new one.”

She works with kids from birth to fifth grade, so she’s seen a lot of faces come through her program.

“I feel like I’ve had the chance to get to know this community,” she said. “I watch kids as they grow up.”

It makes a difference if kids can get to know their librarian, Loomis says: “They need that consistency and familiarity.”

What keeps her doing this?

“I love seeing the delight when a child finds a story, a book, or for the younger ones,

On a busy day, she gets upwards of 70 young people and parents filling her room.

“It’s a little bit intense,” she says. She’s learned from experience how to keep her audience engaged and happy.

“When things start to fall apart, we stop and sing a beloved, familiar song,” she said. “It’s amazing how ‘Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star’ will bring a hush over the room. It’s magic.”

Beyond the story room, her work takes her out into the community, to preschools, Bookmobile visits, and performances at the North Bend Farmer’s Market.

“There’s been a big push in recent years to get out in the community and reach those people who don’t know about us,” she said.

She advises prospective librarians or others interesting in working with young readers to “get out there” and get a sense of the work.

“That was the key for me, the moment I got in a room full of kids, and read a story with them, seeing that enthusiasm. It was very clear,” Loomis said. “You have to love it. You have to enjoy kids to do it.”

“There’s still a place for children’s librarians,” she said.

“Kids need a person to help connect them…. People have been doing the right things with kids for hundreds of years. There’s a lot of research that tells us, ‘Yes, you should read to children, you should sing to them.”

Kelly Garwood

Stephanie McMahon

KELLY GARWOOD, D.D.S.

THE CLEANING AUTHORITY

142 Main Ave N, PO Box 372 • North Bend 425-888-0867

125 E North Bend Way • North Bend • 425-292-9643 http://snoqualmievalley.thecleaningauthority.com

Kelly R. Garwood provides general dentistry for children and adults. I have a wonderful staff of women who provide gentle dental care in a relaxed environment. Our goal is to educate our patients and provide the best dental services to maintain their oral health.

Our Staff:

1074051

Dr. Garwood

Kathy, Stephanie & Megan – Dental Assistants Lorri, Elsa & Kay – Hygienists Sally – Office Manager Nicole - Front Desk

Counteract the ‘Summer Learning Slide’ at the library Children and teens who spend their summer reading and learning, come back in the fall better prepared for school than those who don’t—so King County Library System created a new summer learning program called Thinkology: The Study of Fun. Young Valley readers can build robots, do hands-on science projects, learn magic, create puppets and read during the summer program.

For details, visit any KCLS library or kcls.org/kids/summer.

Snoqualmie Library hosts a number of programs for children: • On Saturday, June 26, the library hosts the “Jack Chapeau Meets the Gill Man” puppet show, 7 p.m.

• On Wednesday, July 9, the library hosts the Robot Garage with the Museum of Flight, 1 p.m.

• On Thursday, July 24, the Planet of the Amps family concert is 2 p.m.

• On Tuesday, July 29, “A Day at the Beach: Create a Watercolor Journal,” for children age 8 and older, 1:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, July 30, “Tad and Fry Puppet Show, 10:30 a.m., presented by Tears of Joy Theater.

• Thursday, Aug. 7, “The Fastastical Magical Math Spell Show, 2 p.m., presented by Cindy Arnold of Live Paint.

• Thursday, Aug. 14, “Sing a Song of Science,” presented

by Nancy Stewart, 10:30 a.m.

Stephanie McMahon is lifelong Snoqualmie Valley resident and, co-owner of The Cleaning Authority, a family-owned residential cleaning service. She is very involved in their church, family, community and local worthy causes such as One Voice, Snoqualmie Valley Schools Foundation, Children’s Hospital, Cleaning for a Reason and the Food Bank. With their house cleaning business they take pride in quality, service, communication with customers and their professional house cleaning staff. At The Cleaning Authority of Snoqualmie Valley, they work very hard to provide a professional residential cleaning service at a fair price. All of their professional housecleaners are fulltime employees with workers compensation and liability insurance covered. The Cleaning Authority provides all the environmentally-responsible cleaning supplies needed to clean your most prized possession - your home. They are committed to using Green Seal Certified® chemicals and HEPA filtration vacuums throughout your home. MSDS sheets are available for any customer wishing additional information on their products. Training, supervision, inspections and quality management are the keys to their success and satisfaction is guaranteed on every clean! For a free estimate visit them online at http://snoqualmievalley. thecleaningauthority.com Snoqualmie Valley

BEST OF 2014

1076325

WWW.VALLEYRECORD.COM

14 • June 18, 2014 • Snoqualmie Valley Record

WWW.VALLEYRECORD.COM

Women in Business 2014 Snoqualmie Valley Hospital District

Theresa Baker

SWING BED PROGRAM

BAKER INSURANCE GROUP

9575 Ethan Wade Way SE • Snoqualmie 425-831-2300 • www.SVHD4.org

Insurance Agent/Owner 425-292-0004 • www.bakerig.com info@bakerig.com Kathi Pettit, RN, BSN

DURING THIS TIME • You can change health plans for any reason • We can help you to sign up for insurance in the private market and on the Exchange • You do not have to pay more in premium for us to help you understand your insurance choices

Theresa Baker has 27 years experience and owns Baker Insurance Group with offices in Snoqualmie and Bellevue. She and her licensed team members, Debi Hill and Michelle Larson, are active members of The National Ethics Bureau, NAIFA, The Snoqualmie Chamber of Commerce, BNI Proud to be a Plateau Partners, and Wibbie Snoqualmie Valley Women in Business.

Cathy Jenner

Michele G. Pearson

CONNECTS COUNSELING 206-595-2920 • North Bend

THE PEARSON LAW FIRM, P.S.

1074044

• We also offer these types of insurance: Employer Group Medical, Disability, Long Term Care, Accident, Cancer, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance.

1072811

Following a hospital stay related to surgery, illness or injury, some people need additional therapy and nursing to recover. The Swing Bed Program provides hospital-based skilled nursing care and rehabilitation to help people return to their home or residential facility. Jeannie Fessenden, RN, Swing Bed Program Manager, and Kathi Pettit, RN, Swing Bed Intake Specialist, Infection Preventionist and Utilization Review Nurse, work with patients and their families to answer questions, provide tours, and coordinate a safe transfer to Snoqualmie Valley Hospital. Their goal is to ensure that every patient has an opportunity to reach National Top 20 Critical Access Hospital optimal health.

HEALTH INSURANCE OPEN ENROLLMENT BEGINS NOVEMBER 15, 2014

165 NE Juniper Street, Suite 200 • Issaquah 425-831-3100 • www.pearsonlawfirm.com

www.ConnectsCounseling.com Cathy loves working with individuals and families in the Valley and nearby. She is a licensed mental heath counselor and a learning specialist. Along with treating anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and more, she also is an expert in helping individuals and families deal with problems resulting from ADHD, learning disabilities and school or work performance issues. With flexible rates, evening hours and a comfortable , confidential environment, Connects Counseling is a great resource for folks who want to become healthier and happier. Most issues can be improved or resolved within a few sessions! Check out her website for more information on services.

p

1073825

http://www.facebook.com/ ConnectsCounseling.

Expert intervention makes a difference. When you want to be represented by legal professionals who are compassionate and experienced advocates, call on Michele Pearson of the Pearson Law Firm. She and her partner, husband Jerry, and their staff, take a relationship building approach with clients’ medical professionals, insurance companies or governmental agencies. They emphasize communication and accountability with everyone involved. You can feel confident that they are tackling the right issue at the right time and using the best tools and expertise available, serving clients throughout the State of Washington, from Bellingham to Battle Ground, from Sequim to Spokane. They are expert in catastrophic injury litigation all the way through trial when required. Pearson Law offers free case evaluations. Michele is an active member of numerous professional associations, including the Washington State Association for Justice (WSAJ), American Association of Justice, and the King County Bar Association. law

BEST OF 2014

Proud to be a Wibbie

Snoqualmie Valley

Finalist

Leslie Cranwill

Tanya Boyle

MANAGER - SNOQUALMIE RIDGE STORAGE

HUXDOTTER COFFEE

35501 SE Douglas Street • Snoqualmie 425-396-1410 • www.snoqualmieridgestorage.com

425-888-4678

1074047

Jeannie Fessenden, RN, MSN, MPH

Corner of Park & Main • North Bend

I have lived in the Valley for over 30 years and have owned Huxdotter for twelve years and the car wash next door for seven. As you know Manager Leslie Cranwill for her years of exemplary dedication to customer it takes many people to be successful and I can’t thank my employees and my service at Snoqualmie Ridge Storage. We wish her and her family the very husband enough for all the time and hard work they put best and appreciate all her hard work over the last six years. in here. Over the years the menu has grown; you can get SnoqualmiexRidge it Storage is your “one stop shop” for storage, U-Haul, and n u 5 frappes, coffee, teas, smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, 5 Details Call For moving supplies.

We are fullyWhen equipped to rent handle all your residential andmonth we you space from us this and so much more. I believe we have the best coffee and will pick sizes, up your boxes and commercial needs with over 25 storage state storage of the art goods security, & and the best customers service in the valley. I am honored to unload them your new Snoqualmie Ridge “five star” service. Come in and let us help youinto simplify your move.

We can do what I love. Thank you to all our awesome customers!

Snoqualmie Ridge Storage would like to thank

Storage Special!

Storage spacewhat FREE. No solution Charge!* help you decide storage would

MORE THEN JUST GREAT COFFEE...#1 IN THE VALLEY

*Restrictions, terms, and limitations apply. Contact us for details.

best suit your needs. Call us today!

425-396-1410

Spring Cleaning Storage Special 1074040

• The Right Equipment At The Lowest Cost® • One-Way & In-Town® • New Models, Automatics, AC • Only U-HAUL Moving Vans Have the Lowest Decks and Gentle-Ride Suspensions™

5 x 5 unit for only $35!

*Call for details on this offer.

BEST OF 2014 Snoqualmie Valley

1074050

$ 35

Spring Cleaning

WWW.VALLEYRECORD.COM

Snoqualmie Valley Record • June 18, 2014 • 15

Women in Business

2014

Julie Nutley & Kelli Bybee EXCEPTIONAL REAL ESTATE GROUP, LLC

Katie Dennis

JUST B ART + DESIGN, LLC

AUTOWORKS OF NORTH BEND

425-260-0282 • erica@justbartanddesign.com www.justbartanddesign.com

43306 SE North Bend Way • North Bend 425.888.4522 • www.northbendauto.com

Just B Art & Design is a versatile design studio that provides residential and commercial interior design, graphic design, event design for weddings and special occasions, illustration, fine art, and custom hand lettering for invitations, event details or special design projects. Each project is approached with fresh, unique ideas customized to your needs and budget.

I look forward to working with you to make your home, work or life just a little more beautiful. Look for the new Just B Art + Design website and blog coming early summer!

North Bend Automotive’s aim is to insure that your car or truck is operating at 100% throughout its lifetime and your ownership. We take pride in our work and our service to our customers. We like to think of ourselves as a one stop shop for everything to make your vehicle reliable, with the performance you have come to expect. “North Bend Automotive is a family run business”.

Trinkets & Treasures

LMP, CPMT

Located inside MT SI CHIROPRACTIC

KELLY & MARISSA

213 Bendigo Blvd. N. #3 • North Bend 425.301.8611

33511 SE Redmond-Fall City Rd • Fall City 425 441-8471 • Info@TrinketsAndTreasuresFallCity.com www.TrinketsandTreasuresFallCity.com

I am a lifelong resident of this amazing community we call, The Snoqualmie Valley.

Trinkets and Treasures is located in the heart of downtown Fall City. Store owner, Kelly, known as “Trinket” (on the right in picture) has lived in the Snoqualmie Valley, since 1998. Kelly has volunteered with different Rotary clubs and various other organizations helping Eastside communities thrive. Kelly loves people and her expertise is in marketing and customer service. The store manager Marissa, or better known as “Treasure”, has been in retail sales for many years. Her management experience compliments the style & products offered at Trinkets & Treasures. Other staff and helpers include Lori, Ann and Dennis. They are always ready to help you find that perfect gift or special item for your home, business or special friend.

I work with clients from injury treatments, auto injuries, rehabilitation, chronic diseases, and athletes of all ages, expectant mothers and growing children to promote with massage, the natural healing abilities of the human body. I have a flexible schedule and love new clients!

LIC. NO. MA60059360

1076561

My passion is in wellness and alternative therapies as part of a selfcare, healthy lifestyle. I am a Nationally Certified, License Massage Therapist. I also have my certification in Pediatric Massage Therapy.

I am a member of the American Massage Therapy Association.

Our locally owned store specializes in antiques, furniture, wall art, fabric, dishes, CD’s, lamps, pillows, home decor, fishing lures, books, baskets, costumes, games, wedding dresses, and various fun & fancy items.

1075698

Nicole Braithwaite,

1076556

Erica Becker Morin

1076325

Owner Julie Nutley has been working in the Valley for over 35 years. Julie also formerly worked in her family’s business: Wells Nurseries in Bellevue and Fall City now known as Ralph Wells Landscaping. In 2007, Julie established Exceptional Real Estate Group, a company that strives to satisfy its clients real estate needs with honesty and integrity in a community that Julie has grown to love. Broker Kelli Bybee is Julie’s partner in real estate. Kelli is a longtime Valley resident and daughter of Bybee-Nims Blueberry Farm/wedding venue. Both work extremely hard to provide their clients with exceptional services so that they may achieve their real estate goals and dreams. This mission is shared by all the valued brokers of Exceptional Real Estate Group: Lisamarie Emery, Greg Romanoff, Susan Will, and Michelle Robinson (specializing in Bainbridge and its surrounding areas). Julie and Kelli, and their professional colleagues invite the community to experience their exceptional real estate services.

1061859

1076327

33511 SE Redmond-Fall City Rd. • Fall City 425-222-0836

16 • June 18, 2014 • Snoqualmie Valley Record

2014

Anne Kertson & Shilpa Patel

Carol Stevens & Linda Stevens

EDGE PHYSICAL THERAPY & REHABILITATION

RIVERVIEW REALTY, LLC

37624 SE Fury St. C-201 • Snoqualmie 425.292.0223 • www.edgeptandrehab.com

33410 S.E. Redmond-Fall City Rd.,Fall City • 425-222-5112

425-417-8302 (Linda) linda@riverviewrealtyllc.com 425-638-2615 (Carol) carol@riverviewrealtyllc.com

Anne and Shilpa from Edge PT & Rehab would like to thank the community for it’s strong support over their first year of business.

“As not only owners but therapists and local residents of the Valley, it is very rewarding to see our growth lead to patient’s healing faster and living healthier.”

GIVE RIVERVIEW REALTY A CALL! Allow them to build a comfortable & professional relationship with you while meeting your real estate desires, needs, and goals.

Sandee Ballestrasse

Elizabeth Sweitzer

Bella Pelle’ ~ Aesthetics for Your Beautiful Face

SNOQUALMIE VALLEY YMCA

bellapellesandee.com 425.829.6719

Phone: 425 256 3115 • www.snovalleyymca.org For Youth Development, Healthy Living & Social Responsibility

Sandee Ballestrasse, professional esthetician and owner of the private spa, Bella Pelle’, is committed to your beauty, health and safety. Toward that, she is constantly updating her education and knowledge, and bringing in new services and products as she learns more about the best options for the skin and beauty needs of her customers. All her products are researched thoroughly, and brought in based on the safety-mindedness of the ingredients, the optimum results and the conscientiousness of the founders of the products.

AESTHETICS FOR YOUR BEAUTIFUL FACE

1076321

Located in the heart of Snoqualmie Valley, Bella Pella’ offers both a private spa and mobile services. Contact Sandee today to learn more!

Bella Pelle'

1076324

Linda and Jim are the owners of RiverView Realty, Jim is the Managing Broker. For seven years now, their office has been located in the Hauglie Professional Building in Fall City.

With a combined over 220 years of Snoqualmie Valley living experience, the brokers at RiverView Realty truly enjoy helping both buyers and sellers with properties in our Valley but certainly don’t limit their business geographically. Locations of their listings & sales have included properties as far North as Everett ~ as far South as Elma ~ as far East as Moses Lake ~ & as far West as Seattle.

1061856

Edge PT & Rehab offers physical therapy, sports therapy and massage therapy.

Edge’s philosophy is to provide a more personal experience that is often lacking in today’s health care. Edge will guarantee you receive top quality, individualized therapy that is provided directly by a Doctor of Physical Therapy to allow you to not only participate in, but exceed in your active lifestyle. Come let Edge PT & Rehab find your edge!

Linda and Carol Stevens of RiverView Realty work with their husbands Jim and Gene, and also Sales Broker Dale Drain. With extreme integrity and diligence, they work closely with their clients.

At the Y strengthening community is our cause and we accomplish this through programming that centers on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Our mission is to build a community where all people, especially the young, are encouraged to develop to their fullest potential in spirit, mind and body. There are several ways to participate in programs, classes and seminars offered at your local Y, and many of those opportunities are free of charge to the whole community! Everyone is welcome to apply for Membership and Financial Scholarships are available. Visit us for a tour, FREE 3 day guest pass, and information on upcoming events, classes and activities!

1076323

Women in Business

WWW.VALLEYRECORD.COM

Alisa, Marie & Leesa CHAPLINS NORTH BEND CHEVROLET 106 Main Street • North Bend 425-888-0781 • www.chevyoutlet.com

The Women of Chaplins

Chaplins North Bend Chevrolet is a family-run business. Our mission is to embody the spirit and culture of our automakers, and personify the spirit of excellence in our store. Leesa is dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service in an uplifting environment where she can efficently and peacefully fulfill the needs of their customers. Marie and Alisa are dedicated to ensuring the dealership’s transactions and accounting are accurate and provided in a transparent manner. The women of Chaplins strive to be the best without compromise and to make a friendly shopping Proud to be a Wibbie experience for everyone. Customer service is always at the forefront along with a no-pressure sales environment.

1074054

Left to Right: ALISA, MARIE and LEESA