Bight March 2012

SHELTONMASONCOUNTY

In ThE loop Experience China Get prepared for adventure! – 4 IT’s Your Lucky day Auction fundraiser St. Patrick’s Day – 13 Our Children’s Voices

Celebrate the Sound - 18

MARCH 2012 1

Shelton Mason County Chamber

March 2012

Message from Chamber President SHELTONMASONCOUNTY

Board of Trustees President Drew MacEwen Falcon Financial, Inc. Past President Patti Case Green Diamond Resource Company Vice President of Marketing Kathryn Kamin Hood Canal Communications Vice President of Member Services Melanie Bakala State Farm Insurance Treasurer Rick Verbarendse Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club Steve Andrewski, EFI Herb Baze Black Star, The Strip Steakhouse Kevin Cronquist Prudential NW Real Estate Mike Gango, Quality Appliance Bob Houle Houle & Goodell Attorneys, LLC Patti Tupper Tupper’s Floor Coverings & Interiors

Dear Members, One of our major fundraisers is upon us. The Chamber’s Annual Auction which will be held on March 17th at the Sentry Pavilion.

Being it is St. Patrick’s Day one can easily guess the theme, so wear green! Lisa Woodward and her team have been working very hard to make it fun, exciting, and profitable. Bring a friend or business associate who is not yet a member and let’s make this a profitable and fun evening!

Also working diligently hard is Bob Buhl who heads up our SAVER committee.

There will be some exciting announcements coming in the near future so be sure to stay tuned.

Bob and his team will be playing a vital role in making Shelton more inviting to visitors but also to business.

Produced by Image In Action Design and the Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce as a benefit to Members and the community. All rights reserved. For contribution guidelines and advertising call (360) 427-5599.

Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce Box 2389 |215 W Railroad Avenue Shelton, WA 98584 426-2021 • (800) 576-2021• FAX 426-8678

www.SheltonChamber.org

Mission Statement To encourage and maintain a vibrant business community, promote tourism and facilitate economic development.

March 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber

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The City of Shelton is on board and I believe the efforts of SAVER will benefit all of our members over the long haul.

As with any organization communication is vital.

Your board is very keen on transparency and on keeping members informed.

However, there are times when plans are being formulated and discussed but are not yet implemented. During those times rumors take hold and things seem to take on a life of their own.

With that in mind, know that all board meetings are open to our members and I encourage you to attend a meeting to see how we do

function. And if you have concerns, frustrations, or questions give me a call or email me.

I am looking forward to seeing each of you at our Auction on March 17th!

Very Truly Yours, Drew MacEwen

Message from Chamber Executive Director SHELTONMASONCOUNTY

I hope you all had a happy Leap Year Day! Every four years, we gain an extra day. I hope you made good use of yours. I spent mine celebrating a close friend’s eighth official birthday. Since it only happens every fourth year, we celebrate her day with great fanfare.

March is here! And there is much happening this month. One of the things I am most excited about is that my friend Leo and his son, Peter, are coming from China to visit Mason County and host an orientation for our October Experience China Trip.

Please bring a friend and join us to learn more about this amazing trip. It’s a once in a lifetime experience and truly quite magnificent.

Leo and Peter will be speaking at the Colonial House at 5:30 pm on Monday, March 5. There is no cost or obligation to attend this event.

Our Annual Auction is also this month. Try your luck at Saint Patrick’s Day and be prepared for a night of boisterous bidding, fun games and boosting of Chamber programs.

The Auction is one of our largest fundraisers to raise funds for us to promote you- our members!

This event is open to the public so bring all your favorite friends- it will be a night none will soon forget.

Other upcoming events and happenings are Beautification and the Business Expo/ Bite of Shelton.

Beautification will begin fundraising and planning for a beautiful spring through the lovely flower baskets placed throughout town. These baskets are paid for solely through community donations and the Chamber.

If you would like to see these beautiful flowers continue, you can contribute either personally or financially. Volunteers can reach

Newest Members!

Autism Awareness United

3434 Martin Way E, Ste A, Olympia the Beautification Chair, Kathy Burbidge at Alpine Way. (360) 426-2600.

Last, but definitely not least, we have begun gearing up for our 12th Annual Business Expo and Bite of Shelton. This year’s event takes place at the Pavilion at Sentry Park on Thursday, May 17 from noon to 7:00 pm. We already have several booths reserved by members and last year had to turn away several businesses for lack of room. If you would like to join us, you can sign up online at sheltonchamber.org/expo or you can call us at (360) 426-2021 and we will send you a registration form.

It’s shaping up to be a great year!

Heidi McCutcheon Executive Director

ASEA

PO Box 2085, Shelton (360) 239-8163 sandy.paul@gmail.com asea4yourlife.teamasea.com Health & Lifestyle

MC Studios

PO Box 99, Shelton (360) 464-5279 mmchaco1986@gmail.com mcstudios.co Wedding & Event Planning

Game on! Guide Service Shelton (360) 708-1770 skagitdrifter@gmail.com gameonguideservice.com Recreation/Boat Charter

Wealth in Health with Isagenix 1690 E Island Lk Dr, Shelton (360) 868-2154 wealthinhealth@winning.com jbentley.isagenix.com Health

Know someone else who should join the Chamber? Please call (360)426-2021 or email heidi@sheltonchamber.org.

bight [bīt] n.

1. A loop in a rope or cable. In logging referred to cable looped around a log when it was moved.

ANNUAL AUCTION: MARCH 17 See page 13 for details

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2. A bend or curve. A wide bay formed by such a bend or curve.

Shelton Mason County Chamber

March 2012

Experience China The Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce is glad to offer its Members, and the community at large, an opportunity to “Experience China” this coming October. The ten day trip (October 13-22) will guide you to Beijing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Shanghai – staying at four and five star hotels and traveling to a myriad of fascinating attractions.

Executive Director Heidi McCutcheon talks about her experience: My husband and I travelled on this trip to China in October 2011. It is a magical, almost surreal, excursion that immerses you in the Chinese culture. I found the Chinese people to be warm, friendly and curious about American culture. I cannot tell you how many Chinese people asked for a photo with one of us- they would literally come up to us on the street.

I also think that you cannot help but be affected by the history and it is amazing to experience first-hand the cultural richness going back thousands of years.

The only money you’ll need will be for any shopping you want to do, and you’ll have plenty of opportunity.

We walked through Tian An Men Square, boated at the Summer Palace and walked on the Great Wall, among many other remarkable sites and vistas. And you can experience it too.

Anyone can go on this trip, so bring your retired friends, surprise recent high school graduates, and grab your favorite travel companions: It is unlikely that you’ll ever be able to travel half-way across the world, all inclusive, for such a low price, with the safety of a large group and with world class, English speaking guides.

I hope that you don’t take my word for it though- go see for yourself !

October is the perfect time of year to visit China; the temperature was a comfortable 70 degrees, with none of the humidity associated with the summer months.

For those of you wondering, China wasn’t as dirty or crowded as I had expected it to be. The food is top of the line and the accommodations are amazing.

March 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber

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The all-inclusive, ten day trip costs just $2,300 pp and includes your airfare, lodging, meals, ground transportation, admission to the venues, guides, interpreters, gratuities and your visa (you must supply your own passport).

If you or anyone you know are interested in this excursion, please join us on Monday, March 5 at 5:30 p.m. at the Colonial House in downtown Shelton for an informational session about this fantastic opportunity!

Check out trip details and photos at www.sheltonchamber.org/experience-china.

Business Planning Committee

Bob Houle | Houle & Goodell Attorneys at Law The business planning committee is making great strides towards achieving a comprehensive, member-driven strategic plan. The Chamber is striving to get in touch with the needs of its membership so that we can offer products and services tailored to those needs. It is our goal to make your membership more valuable over time. We can only achieve that goal through your input.

Some of you might remember a meeting that we held in August 2011 wherein a strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis (SWOT) was conducted of the members at the meeting.

The plan in turn offers cohesiveness over a three-year period because though board members may change, the board still is operating and working towards the same goals set out in that plan.

We have learned a great deal from that investigation and will shortly send out an email survey to all members in hopes of gaining their perspective on the Chamber. When you receive this email survey please respond- it is essential to our efforts in making the Chamber more representative of its membership.

Further, the business planning committee will stay in place after the plan is created to aid in the implementation of the plan.

Through the feedback of the SWOT analysis, the business planning committee should have a comprehensive business plan in place no later than July 2012.

It is a very exciting time in the history of Shelton Mason Chamber and I am happy and proud to be the chair of the business planning committee.

I will be posting articles each month to fill you in on the progress of the plan.

A Bight of History

by Justin Cowling

In this past month the Museum was closed for a week to do a little spring cleaning. In this time, staff and volunteers were able to clean up, reorganize, and make some brand new exhibits. New displays include historic kitchen items featuring a collection of butter knifes that date from 1871 to 1916, a display case of barber tools, tobacco paraphernalia and vintage business machines, as well as a very nice school room display.

Visit the Mason County Historical Society’s Museum at 427 W. Railroad in downtown Shelton to see what has been done and what the Society is doing. The Museum is open Tuesdays through Fridays from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturdays from 11:00 to 4:00 PM. For additional information, feel free to call (360) 426-1020.

MCHS is always available to answer any questions or assist in your research efforts.

Join us on Wednesday, March 14, for the Chamber’s Business After Hours. The event will be held at the Museum from 5:30 - 7:00 PM and we look forward to seeing you there!

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Shelton Mason County Chamber

March 2012

Bight of the Bite The Chamber is now accepting registrations for the annual Business Expo and Bite of Shelton to be held on Thursday, May 17, from 12 noon to 7 pm at The Pavilion at Sentry Park in Shelton.

Space is limited so reserve your space now! Register online at www.sheltonchamber.org/expo or download the form to mail/fax your submission. Several registration forms have already been received so we encourage interested vendors to act quickly.

Board member Melanie Bakala had this to say about the Expo: “I have participated in a lot of these types of events in other com-munities, and our Chamber’s Business Expo is a unique blend of business and community that provides unparalleled exposure.”

Last year more than 65 businesses showcased their products and services.

This fun-filled event also offers local restaurant specialties – available for a small fee – as well as prizes, drawings, and entertainment.

Whether you’re interested in reserving a booth or in attending, this event should not be missed!

Thanks to our Sponsors: Bakala State Farm, Heritage Bank, Hood Canal

March 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber

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Communications, Port of Shelton, Top Hand LLC, Tupper’s Floor Coverings and West Coast Bank and to in-kind sponsors KMAS, ROXY and the Shopper’s Weekly.

Cover IMAGE

BIGHT OF SPRING This month’s cover image is in stark contrast to last month’s Tollie in the snow! Despite the rain and morning frost still lingering around the heads of the emerging bulbs, we are all starting to feel the seasons change!

This is a great time to start thinking about the Shelton Beautification Project! Beautification will begin fundraising and planning for a beautiful spring through the lovely flower baskets placed throughout town. These baskets are paid for solely through community donations and the Chamber.

SHELTONMASONCOUNTY

March Events March 2 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Business Builder Workshop : Media Relations

with Patti Case, Green Diamond Resource Co. Grove Street Brewhouse 233 S First St, Shelton

March 5 5:30 PM

Experience China informational session

Colonial House, 222 W Pine St, Shelton

March 14 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Business After Hours Mason County Historical Society 427 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

March 17 5:00 - 9:00 PM

Annual Auction

The Pavilion at Sentry Park 190 W Sentry Dr, Shelton

BIGHT OF ECONOMIC GROWTH Thomas, Penny | Department of Commerce, Olympia, WA In a welcome boost to the state’s economy and job outlook, exports of Washington-made goods jumped to a record $64.6 billion in 2011, an increase of 21%, according to the World Institute for Strategic Economic Research.

“This is truly welcome news for our state,” said Gov. Chris Gregoire. “The global marketplace continues to recognize the outstanding quality and value of products and services from Washington state. Given we’re the most trade dependent state in the nation, exports are a key driver of job growth and economic recovery. We will continue to build the strong relationships

with trading partners overseas that further expand opportunities for our businesses.” The strong performance puts Washington well on the way toward meeting the goals of Gregoire’s Washington Export Initiative. The initiative launched in 2010 and seeks to increase state exports 30% by 2015.

The largest market for Washington goods continued to be China, where 2011 exports rose 9% to $11.2 billion. Exports to Europe also climbed, despite the region’s economic turmoil, to $6.4 billion, an increase of 23% compared to 2010. Aircraft and parts dominated the list of goods shipped to both regions.

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Soy and grain ranked second among the Washington goods shipped to China, though this figure includes some crops originating outside the state.

WISER generated its analysis using data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The state is the largest U.S. exporter on a per capita basis. With 8,000 Washington companies currently exporting, approximately four percent of Washington companies export, compared to a national average of one percent.

One in three jobs in Washington state are tied to trade, either directly or indirectly.

Shelton Mason County Chamber

March 2012

Live, Work AND PLAY For those who PLAY in Mason County, the Parks, Trails, and Facilities Department has an opening for the Parks Advisory Board. If you are interested in serving, please contact John Keates, Director of Parks, Trails, & Facilities at (360) 4279670 ext. 669.

City of Shelton Parks & Recreation is offering a full slate of spring programs. If you are interested in PLAYing with Parks & Rec visit www.ci.shelton.wa.us/parkrec.

Show off where you WORK at the upcoming Business Expo & Bite of Shelton. Registration is open and space is limited so register today at www.sheltonchamber.org/expo.

If you love to PLAY in our beautiful outdoors, you will be excited to know that Washington State Parks has announced “free days” for state parks in 2012 – including March 18-19 in honor of Washington State Park’s 99th birthday.

Want to help make Washington a better place to LIVE? The Department of Commerce is recruiting for a Developmental Disabilities Council Chair. Applications are due March 5, 2012. Visit commerce. wa.gov for additional information.

Do you LIVE in your books? The William G. Reed Library is offering adult, teen, and children’s reading programs including a “Reading Not Required: A Book Group for Busy People” over the lunch hour on Wednesdays. Call (360) 426-1362 or visit www.events.trlib.org for more information.

Weaving a strong business foundation for the Squaxin Island Tribe’s Future

If you LIVE in Mason County and are interested in our heritage, you may wish to apply for one of two open positions on the Mason County Historic Preservation Commission (open until filled). Contact the Commissioner’s Office at (360) 4279670 ext. 419 for more information.

The Better Business Bureau warns you to guard your sensitive information, as you receive your WORK wage and tax statements in your mailbox. Beware phishing and confirm reliability of inquiries and offers with IRS tips and the BBB.

Go PLAY Outside!

Washington State Parks has announced the following “free days,” when the Discover Pass will not be required to visit a state park. A Discover Pass will still be required to access lands managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

2012 State Parks “free days”:

• March 18 and 19 – Washington State Parks’ 99th birthday • June 9 – National Get Outdoors Day • Sept. 29 – National Public Lands Day • Nov. 10 - 12 – Veterans Day weekend

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March 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber

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Goose Lake, Shelton WA

Marketing Committee

President’s Circle

Brandy Faught | Maple Glen

This month’s meeting not only brought new ideas but also two new members. We welcome Stephanie James from Squaxin Island Enterprises and Libby Avery of the Mason Transit Authority to the Committee!

Jumping right in, Kathryn and Heidi reported on a conference call they held with the Pomegranate Center. The Pomegranate Center is a non-profit organization based in Issaquah that has done projects worldwide to build places, community, and leaders.

Pomegranate Center has developed an effective model for helping communities prepare for the future using collective creativity, meaningful engagement and powerful collaboration.

The goal of this organization is to bring people together to build better communities throughout the US and around the globe.

Their intention is to help us with new and fresh ideas for Mason County. They are not here to make changes or tell us how to run our town but to

Platinum Members

encourage positive changes.

Kathryn reported that Pomegranate Center will be paying Mason County a visit soon, likely at the end of March, so stay tuned.

Heidi will be sending out Chamber Members survey with four short questions to help decide which marketing routes are most productive in terms of advertising. You should have just received yours in the past week; please take the time to complete the survey, it should take you no longer than five minutes.

The results will help us create our Base Marketing Plan which will be presented at the April member meeting.

If you would like any information on the Marketing Committee please contact VP of Marketing, Kathryn Kamin at kathrynk@hcc.net or (360) 8982481.

Gold Members Community Financial Center Generation D Computers & Technology Heritage Bank KMAS 1030 AM Richard C. Downing, DDS West Coast Bank

Silver Members

Harmony Hill Retreat Center American Family Insurance, Berti S. Brodsky A Lighthouse on Hammersley Bed & Breakfast

Chamber Leads Group still accepting participants Sign up now!

The Chamber is hosting two Leads Groups to provide networking opportunities for our Members. One group meets Tuesday mornings at 7:30 AM and the other group meets Wednesdays at 11:30 AM.

Leads Groups will only be open to Chamber members in good standing for an annual cost of $80. Space is limited and once your category is taken, this opportunity will no longer be available to you!

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For additional details including complete rules, a category list and an application to reserve your place within this exciting new venture, visit www.sheltonchamber.org/leads or contact the Chamber Office.

Shelton Mason County Chamber

March 2012

Promotions at the Shelton Police Departmnt In January the Shelton Civil Service Examiner conducted promotional testing for one Police Lieutenant and two Patrol Sergeants for the Shelton Police Department. Two Sergeants tested for the Lieutenant position, and seven patrol officers competed for the Patrol Sergeant positions. The examination consisted of four components involving both written and oral board testing. In February Patrol Sergeant Les Watson was promoted to Lieutenant, and Patrol Officers Mike Fiola and Harry Heldreth were selected for the Patrol Sergeant positions.

Lieutenant Watson has been with the Department for twenty-five years. He spent his first three years as a Reserve Officer and was hired as a full time Patrol Officer in June of 1990. Prior to his promotion, Watson served as a Field Training Officer, Detective Sergeant and Commander.

Sergeant Heldreth has been with the Department for nineteen years. He also spent time as a Reserve Officer prior to being hired as a full time Patrol Officer in February of 1993. Heldreth’s duties prior to being promoted included assignments as the School Resource Officer, Crime Prevention Officer, Acting Sergeant and Detective.

Sergeant Fiola has been with the Department for over eight years. He was hired as a Patrol Officer in August of 2003, and during his time with the Department has been assigned as the Crime Prevention Officer, DARE Officer, Acting Sergeant, and currently is also a member of the Mason County SWAT team.

Geoduck Research Symposium to be held in Union A Geoduck Research Symposium sponsored by Washington Sea Grant and the Washington State Department of Ecology will feature the latest findings by scientists from the University of Washington and other research institutions.

The geoduck (Panopea generosa) is North America’s largest burrowing clam. It is found in soft intertidal and subtidal marine habitats in the northeast Pacific Ocean to depths of more than 200 feet.

In Washington state, this large clam has been cultured for enhancement of wild stocks since 1991 and on a commercial scale since 1996.

However, there was little scientific information available on the ecological impacts of applicable culture practices.

In 2007, at the direction of the State Legislature, Washington Sea Grant, based at the University of Washington,

established a six-year research program to assess possible effects of geoduck aquaculture on the Puget Sound and Strait of Juan de Fuca environments.

The symposium is scheduled for Tuesday, March 6, 1:30-5 p.m., at the Alderbrook Resort and Spa, 7101 E. State Route 106, Union.

Researchers will present their latest findings from the following projects: The Ecological Effects of Geoduck Aquaculture Glenn Van Blaricom and Sean McDonald, University of Washington (UW) School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences.

This symposium is hosted at the Alderbrook Resort | picture Alderbrookresort.com

March 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber

Geoduck clam in seafood tank in Richmond BC Canada picture wikipedia.org

The Influence of Geoduck Clam Culture and Harvest in Puget Sound on Sediment Nutrient Biogeochemistry Roger I. E. Newell, Jeffrey C. Cornwell and Mike S. Owens, Horn Point Marine Laboratory, University of Maryland.

Effects of the Geoduck Aquaculture Cycle on Fisk BarSamish Bay, Washington Micah Horwith, UW Department of Biology.

Characterizing Trends in Endosymbionts of Native Geoduck Panopea generosa Elene Dorfmeier, Brent Vadopalas, Julian Olden and Carolyn Friedman, UW School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences; and Paul Frelier and Ralph Elston, AquaTechnics.

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Microsatellite Parentage Analysis of Reproductive Success and Genetic Diversity in Cultured Geoduck, Panopea generosa Kristina M. Straus, Brent Vadopalas and Carolyn S. Friedman, UW School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences; and Jonathan Davis, Taylor Shellfish.

The symposium will also include a panel discussion following the research presentations.

Admission is free, but space is limited, so registration is required. Early registration is recommended. Contact Janis McNeal at wsgcanal@uw.edu or (360) 432-3054.

MARCH Chamber and County Events March 2 Business Builder Workshop 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Grove Street Brewhouse 233 S First St, Shelton Media Relations with Patti Case of Green Diamond Resource Co. March 3 Rodeo Shin-Dig 5:00 PM Civic Center, Shelton, WA Cost: $5.00 per person Live and silent auctions, dinner, Queen pageant and coronation, dinner! Fun for the whole family March 5 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM 19th Annual Conference for Shellfish Growers Alderbrook Resort and Spa, Union Experience China Informational Session 5:30 PM The Colonial House 222 E Pine St, Shelton March 6 8:00 AM – 12 noon 19th Annual Conference for Shellfish Growers Alderbrook Resort and Spa, Union Chamber Governmental Affairs Committee Meeting 7:30 AM Roosters Restaurant 3001 Olympic Hwy N,

Morning Leads Group 7:30 - 9:00 AM Pine Tree Restaurant 102 S First St, Shelton Chamber Ambassadors Committee Meeting 12:00 - 1:00 PM Grove Street Brewhouse 233 S First St, Shelton March 7 Lunch Leads Group 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Steven’s On Railroad 203 W Railroad Ave, Shelton Union Tourism Association Meeting 12:00 – 1:00 PM at Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club 330 Country Club Dr, Union

March 14 Chamber Marketing Committee Meeting 8:00 AM at the Chamber Office 215 W Railroad Avenue, Shelton Lunch Leads Group 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Steven’s On Railroad 203 W Railroad Ave, Shelton Business After Hours 5:30 - 7:00 PM Mason County Historical Society 427 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

Lunch Leads Group 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Steven’s On Railroad 203 W Railroad Ave, Shelton March 23 Silent Movie “The General” Fundraiser for Catalyst Park CHOICE HS Auditorium 807 W Pine St, Shelton March 25 Cooking with Xinh Fundraiser for MGH Foundation | 6:00 PM Xinh’s Clam & Oyster House 221 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

March 16 Chamber Board Meeting 7:30 AM Chamber Office 215 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

March 8 Chamber Finance Committee Meeting 7:30 AM at the Chamber Office 215 W Railroad Avenue, Shelton

March 26 Cooking with Xinh Fundraiser for MGH Foundation | 6:00 PM Xinh’s Clam & Oyster House 221 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

March 17 Chamber Annual Auction 5:00 – 9:00 PM The Pavilion at Sentry Park 190 W Sentry Dr, Shelton

March 27 Morning Leads Group 7:30 - 9:00 AM Pine Tree Restaurant 102 S First St, Shelton

March 13 Morning Leads Group 7:30 - 9:00 AM Pine Tree Restaurant 102 S First St, Shelton

March 20 Morning Leads Group 7:30 - 9:00 AM Pine Tree Restaurant 102 S First St, Shelton

Chamber Member Services Committee Meeting 12:00 - 1:00 PM Steven’s On Railroad 203 W Railroad Ave Shelton

March 21 SAVER Committee Meeting 7:00 AM Roosters Restaurant 3001 Olympic Hwy N,

Chamber Business Planning Committee Meeting 6:00 PM Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club 330 Country Club Dr, Union

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March 28 Lunch Leads Group 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Steven’s On Railroad 203 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

Shelton Mason County Chamber

March 2012

SAVER Committee

by Bob Buhl

The Shelton Alliance for Viable Economic Revitalization (SAVER) Committee began as a subcommittee of the Government Affairs Committee.

They were charged with the mission of working with the City of Shelton to identify opportunities to improve the economic vitality in our downtown business core. Encouraged by successful collaborative initiatives with participation from downtown business and building owners along with representatives from the Shelton Historical Preservation Board, Mason Transit Authority, and the City of Shelton, the Chamber Board of Trustees recently voted the committee permanent status.

SAVER’s goal is to part-

nerwith the City to create an environment that incentivizes building owners to invest, business owners to become established in the downtown business core (roughly from Grove to Franklin and First to Seventh), and to attract visitors and local shoppers by making the area more pedestrian and shopper friendly.

A design committee is presently working out the final draft landscaping and sign details for presentation to the City for their review and public comment.

We hope to begin the actual onsite work this spring to get the landscaping completed and established before summer.

Committee members were invited to discuss the letter with the City Commissioners in December. The Commissioners requested clarification of some of the initiatives.This will have been completed and a revised recommendation will have been presented to the new City Commission by the time this article goes to print.

other funding to create a Business Incubator for retail space.

5. Cooperate with the Chamber and the Economic Development Council to provide services to assist prospective new business owners navigate zoning , permit, and building code requirements as well as provide demographic and other critical data.

To that end, the committee has submitted two recommendations to the Chamber Board which have been approved and subsequently presented to the City.

The second project identified five initiatives the committee felt would help incentivize new businesses to open their doors downtown.

The recommended initiatives are:

The first recommendation, to redesign the northwest corner of First and Railroad, was approved by the Board and accepted by the City last fall.

Our recommendation was approved by the Board and a letter was presented to the City requesting the initiatives be adopted.

These recommendations are designed to direct muchneeded startup money to inventory, equipment, and wages to help a new enterprise get established with minimum impact on City coffers.

March 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber

1. Waive City B&O taxes for start up businesses in the downtown core for their first year of operation.

2. Allow 180 days for a new business to comply with the sign code.

3. Waive Traffic Impact Fees for a new business opening in an existing building.

4. Pursue available grant and 12 13

For more information on the SAVER Committee, please call the Chamber office at (360) 426-2021.

It’s Your Lucky Day!

You are invited to celebrate St. Patrick’s day with us at our annual auction. Join us for an evening of boisterous fun, bidding, and boosting Chamber events and programs.

The event will be held at the Pavilion at Sentry Park.

Doors open at 5:00 for our silent auction, to be followed by dinner and the live auction.

The cost is just $40 per person - and Chamber Member receive a $10 per person discount!

If you are interested in participating, would like to donate an auction item, or would like more information on our sponsorship opportunities, visit www. sheltonchamber.org/auction or call the Chamber Office at (360) 426-2021.

Please extend this invitation to your colleagues and friends - it’s sure to be a fabulous time!

All proceeds from this event benefit the Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce, a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization.

The mission of the Chamber is to encourage and maintain a vibrant business community, promote tourism, and facilitate economic development.

Sponsors:

Table Sponsors:

Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club Alpine Way Retirement Apartments Bakala State Farm Ins. Falcon Financial, Inc. Houle & Goodell, Attorneys at Law Log Cabin Bar & Grill

Premier Sponsor: Capitol City Press

Peninsula Credit Union Prudential Northwest Real Estate ServPro Skookum Rotary Squaxin Island Enterprises Urraco Coffee Co. West Coast Bank

Park Board Opening Youth affiliation preferred Mason County Parks, Trails, and Facilities Department has one (1) opening for the parks advisory board.

The purpose of the Mason County Parks and Trails Board is to provide guidance, direction and recommendations regarding the planning, acquisition, development and operation of

parks, trails, facilities, and programs serving the needs of Mason County.

While all volunteers are welcome, an affiliation with a youth group, could be youth sports, scouts, or youth program is preferred.

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The Park Board meets at 6:00 PM on the 2nd Thursday of the month at MCRA park.

If you are interested in serving on the parks board, please contact John Keates, Director of Parks, Trails, & Facilities at (360) 427-9670 ext. 669.

Shelton Mason County Chamber

March 2012

Razor-Clam Managers Propose Series of Morning Digs in March, April Fishery managers are planning a series of morning razor-clam digs in March and April on Washington’s ocean beaches so long as marine toxin tests show the clams are safe to eat.

As usual, the final word on beach openings will be announced about a week before each dig is scheduled to start.

Proposed beach openings, along with morning low tides, for upcoming digs are:

“We’re announcing tentative dates now so people can get them on their calendars,” said Dan Ayres, coastal shellfish manager for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). “We’ll confirm the dates once the test results are available.”

March 10, Saturday (7:39 am -0.3.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks March 11, Sunday (9:28 am -0.4.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks March 24, Saturday (8:25 am +0.3.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks March 25, Sunday (8:59 a.m., +0.3 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks April 7, Saturday (7:36 a.m., -1.2 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, Kalaloch April 8, Sunday (8:23 a.m., -1.5 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, Kalaloch April 9, Monday (9:11 a.m., -1.5 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Kalaloch

WDFW may announce additional digs in late April and early May at some beaches if enough clams are still available for harvest, Ayres said.

Unlike previous openings this season, all digs planned in the months ahead are timed to coincide with morning low tides.

No digging will be allowed on any beach after noon.

Ayres noted that the dig planned at Copalis on March 24 will coincide with the sixth annual Ocean Shores Razor Clam Festi-

A Sage Choice MaryAnn and Carolyn Olsen, Sage Bookstore, just came back from Winter Institute, a booksellers conference in New Orleans.

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One of the authors that caught their attention was Michael Shuman, Local Dollars Local Sense. How to shift Money from Wall Street to Main Street and achieve real prosperity.

Some of those reviewing this book stated that this should be required reading in America.

We have an urgency to rebuild local economics. Local investing must be the wave of the future.

March 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber

val, which includes a chowder cookoff and other events. Information on the festival is available at http://www.oceanshores.org/.

by Michael H. Shuman

A rich resource for both investors and the entrepreneurs they want to support, Local Dollars, Local Sense eloquently shows how to truly protect your financial future—and your community’s.

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New Report Cites Gap in Number of Workers for Many High-Demand Jobs in State Unless Washington directs more higher education resources to training workers in high-demand fields, it will experience a continuing gap between the number of workers it educates and the number needed by employers, a new report by three state-level higher education agencies concludes.

The report, titled “A Skilled and Educated Workforce,” identifies several employment categories in which demand for workers is expected to outstrip the state’s ability to supply those workers through at least 2019. These include computer science, engineering, software engineering and architecture at the bachelor’s degree level, and manufacturing and various installation, maintenance, and repair fields at the associate degree and certificate levels.

Demand also is projected to be strong in the health professions at all education levels, and in computer science for those with graduate degrees.

The report emphasizes the state will fail to meet projected demand in these fields if the level of degree production it has been achieving is not increased significantly this decade.

In recent years, many employers have turned to qualified candidates from other states and countries to fill these gaps created by comparatively low levels of in-state degree and certificate production.

The report is the third in a series of biennial reports required by state law to assess forecasted net job openings at each level of higher education and the credentialed workers needed to match the forecast of net job openings. It was produced by the Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB), the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) and the Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board (Workforce Board).

The full report is available at www.hecb. wa.gov/sites/default/files/SkilledEducatedWorkforce2011.pdf

MGH & FC’S FREE COMMUNITY CPR CLASSES IN MARCH AND APRIL Take advantage of a great opportunity to learn lifesaving skills for free – and be a valuable asset to your community! Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics is offering two FREE Adult, Child, and Infant Basic Life Support CPR classes on Thursday, March 8 and again on Thursday April 12, each from 6 to 9 p.m. at MGH & FC’s Learning Center, located next to McDonald’s on Olympic Highway North.

You will learn the correct technique for adult, child, and infant CPR, and how to identify the signs of a heart attack and stroke. The classes are open to everyone in the community, and a Spanish interpreter can be made available, if required.

It is recommended that participants wear comfortable clothing for the class.

As class size is limited, so you must preregister for your class by calling the Learning Center at (360) 427-3609. Please have reservations made by March 2 for the March 8 class, or by April 6 for the April 12 session.

This is not a First Aid class.

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Mason County Historic Preservation Commission Seeks Participation The Mason County Commissioners are seeking applicants to fill two open positions on the Mason County Historic Preservation Commission.

The major responsibility of the Historic Preservation Commission is to identify and actively encourage the conservation of the Mason County’s historic resources by initiating and maintaining a register of historic places and reviewing proposed changes to register properties. They will also work to raise community awareness of Mason County’s history and historic resources and serve as Mason County’s primary resource in matters of history, historic planning, and preservation.

Commission members serve threeyear terms and meet monthly at the County offices in Shelton. The open positions expire in November and December 2013.

Interested persons are encouraged to apply for this commission by completing an advisory board form that can be downloaded from our website – www.co.mason.wa.us or by calling the Commissioners’ office at 427-9670 ext. 419 or 2754467 ext. 419.

These positions are open until filled.

Completed applications should be submitted in the Commissioners’ office at 411 N 5th Street, Shelton.

If there are questions about this commission, please contact Michael MacSems at 427- 9670 ext. 571.

Shelton Mason County Chamber

March 2012

HOSPITAL FOUNDATION SEEKS NOMINATIONS FOR 2012 AMERICAN BUSINESS WOMEN’S AWARD Mason General Hospital Foundation is preparing a tribute to our community’s most outstanding business women, and is seeking nominations for its 15th annual American Business Women’s Award. The awards will be presented at a Luncheon held in their honor on Friday, September 21, 2012 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Due to the Campus renewal Project, the location will be announced at a later date.Tickets for the event are $25 per person.

Every year, MGH Foundation honors outstanding business women in our community who are or were successful in their occupations, work or have worked in Mason County, and are active and volunteer in their community.

Past honorees include: 1998 – Miriam Hall, Janet Thornbrue, and Patti Tupper; 1999 – Nita Bariekman, Jean Lee, and Norma Taylor; 2000 – Kay Gott, Colleen Hunter, and

Doris Wilson, M.D.; 2001 – Mary Helen Anderson, Beth Johnston, R.N., and Betty Wolfe; 2002 – Carol Hunter, Rose Nye, and Cherrie Reitsch; 2003 – Janis Byrd, Carolyn Olsen, and Gayle Weston; 2004 – Patti Case, Betty Wing, and Catherine Ann Wolf; 2005 – Angela Wake Olsen, Michelle Schnitzer Corral, and Renee Youngs; 2006 – Xinh Dwelley, Irene Locke, and Virginia J. McCarty; 2007 – Lynn Busacca, Vicki Gonzalez,

and Lynn Harvey; 2008 – Laurie Buhl, Pam Hanson, and Billie Howard; 2009 – Kristy Buck, Sharon Tibbits, and Lisa Woodard; 2010 – Janene Pettyjohn Bandes, Pamela Hunter Schlauderaff, and Cheryl Stewart; and 2011 – Barbara Dunbar, Deb Nielson, and Gretchen Schodde.

If there is a special business woman you’d like to nominate for this year’s award, print out an entry form from the

Hospital website at www.

MasonGeneral.com, or obtain one from the MGH & FC Development Office at Gateway Center, 2505 Olympic Highway North, Suite 460, Shelton, 98584. Nomination forms must be completed and returned to the Development office postmarked or received

by Thursday, May 31. For more information call (360) 427-3623 (from Allyn (360) 275-8614).

VALENTINE’S DAY PROVEN BIG BUSINESS DAY -- LOCALLY

MOUNTAIN VIEW WOMEN’S HEALTH CLINIC AND MGH WELCOME NEW ARNP, EDITH KROHA

Was it love in the air, or stronger consumer confidence?

Local strategic marketing firm, McCarty & Associates, Inc. took a pulse on the local economy on Valentine’s Day 2012, and compared it with Valentine’s Day 2011 by asking some downtown Shelton businesses, commonly associated with the holiday, how they fared.

Edith Kroha, ARNP, MSN, has joined the staff at Mountain View Women’s Health Clinic and Mason General Hospital, working alongside board-certified obstetrician/gynecologists Lystra B. Celestine-Wilson, M.D.; Nkem Nwosa, M.D.; and Alford N. Vassall, Jr., M.D.

“Across the board, retailers reported people seemed happier than last year,” said Virginia J. McCarty, CEO and founder of the marketing firm. “It was very encouraging to talk with random, local restaurants and flower shops to get their take on the present economy. Many reported that not only were sales up this Valentine’s Day, but some restaurants had to turn people away.”

Lynch Creek Floral Owner, Colleen Hunter, stated that business was up from Valentine’s Day last year. “People spent more and really seemed to be happier,” Colleen reported. “They seemed to prefer to shop in town and support the local economy.”

Sales also were higher at Ferguson Flowers and Gifts, Inc. “We were very pleased with our sales,” said Sally Kesselman, owner. “Our customers were willing to spend more for their flowers and gifts this year.

Everyone seemed so optimistic.”

Restaurants also noted an increase in business this year.

Xinh’s Clam and Oyster House sales were up 20 percent from last year. The Strip Steak House reported having to turn away at least 50 couples, if not more. “The restaurants reported they were very busy at lunch time, which carried into the dinner hour,” McCarty said.

March 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber

Edith completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at the University of Arizona in 1977 and went on to get her Family Nurse Practitioner training from the University of California, graduating in 1988.

She later got a Master’s degree in Nursing from California State University – Sacramento in 1998. To make an appointment at Mountain View Women’s Health Clinic call (360) 426-0955.

12th Annual Business Expo and Bite of Shelton

This year’s event takes place at the Pavilion at Sentry Park on Thursday, May 17 from noon to 7:00 pm. Call the Chamber to reserve your space now!

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How Do Your Manners Measure Up? Stephanie Rowland Horton | Top Dog Etiquette

It’s so sad – many people consider the word “etiquette” to be a four-letter word. Actually, it can be! And the word is “nice.” I’ve been working with business professionals, college students and families for years in an effort to help them become more comfortable with their social skills, and when all is said and done, we all agree that it boils down to common courtesy and treating others with respect. Etiquette is about thinking about our words and actions – before we say or do something that might embarrass someone. However, there is a slight challenge, for many people move through life thinking that because no one has called them on being impolite or plain rude, they think all is well with their behavior.

Wrong! The truth is that as a rule, the other person won’t tell you because they don’t want to hurt your feelings. So here we are! I like to have fun with this topic, and encourage you to submit your etiquette questions for future issues of the “Bight.” Let’s start with a quiz, of course!

1. Do not attempt an introduction if you cannot remember names.

FALSE. Even if you cannot remember someone’s name, it would be rude not to try. Simply say something like, “please help me remember your name.” OR, as you approach someone, extend a hand for a handshake and say “Hello, Bob Brown (your own name).

Nice to see you.” Then, the other person should give you their name.

2. Avoid using your cell phone at a restaurant.

TRUE. Taking or making calls – or texting - is not only intrusive to the conversation at your table, but to the neighboring tables as well.

3. “Thank you” is the best response to a compliment.

TRUE. Always say “thank you.” Do not negate the compliment by saying things like, “This old thing?

I haven’t worn this suit for years.” Remember -- a compliment is like a gift.

Take it graciously.

4. Men should stand for introductions and handshaking, but women can remain seated.

FALSE. Today’s business etiquette is the same for women and men. Both should stand.

5. Identify yourself when you place a professional or personal phone call.

TRUE. Do not put pressure on the person you are calling to recognize your voice.

6. Wear your name badge on the left shoulder for easy reading.

FALSE. Wear it on the RIGHT -- when handshaking, people can look up your right hand and see your name badge easily!

7. A senior executive may rise to indicate the end of a meeting.

TRUE. This body language means “our time is about up.”

It is not a good time to ask for a raise!

8. Conversational small talk is not appropriate in the business arena.

FALSE. 5-8 minutes is pretty much required. This important time is used to make your first impression, build a relationship, or simply set the stage for a pleasant meeting.

9. A woman’s handbag can be placed on a desk or restaurant table.

FALSE. Purses and briefcases should be placed under your chair or, a handbag can be stored in your chair if small enough.

Stephanie Rowland Horton is owner of Top Dog Etiquette and is the editor of Shelton Life and North Mason Life. Find ou more tips at www.topdogetiquette.com.

10. When leaving a dining table for a moment, put your napkin next to your plate.

FALSE. Because the napkin has been used, it should be placed on your chair. It does not go back onto the table until everyone is leaving the table after the meal. The same is true for knives and forks – once they have been used, they cannot be placed back onto the table, they should be placed on a dinner or bread and butter plate.

Visit www.topdogetiquette.com to order your copy of “Are Bad Manners Driving your Clients Crazy?”

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Shelton Mason County Chamber

March 2012

The Sound of Our Children’s Voices

How more than 150 local students at six different schools are coming together through through music.

Matthew Blegen, Director, Anna’s Bay Center for Music The proverb goes that children should be seen; but not heard. But I’m willing to bet that John Myrk , the 15th century Augustinian clergyman who actually wrote that dour verse, had never heard the unique harmony of children singing.

There’s a color, a flavor, to young voices that is unique in the palette available to composers. Even without words, there is a feeling of purity and a complete absence of ego in a children’s choir; of a sense of earnestness and enthusiasm not dulled by life. Composers of chamber works usually employ children’s choirs sparingly and to elicit specific effects: Bach for example uses a children’s choir in a single movement of the St. Matthew Passion to add that unique color to the musical backdrop of the apostles scattering after Christ’s arrest – painting the momentarily faithless disciples as frightened children.

The living composer John Rutter uses children in a completely different way in his Mass of the Children. While the adult choir sings the traditional Latin mass setting, sometimes in dark and mysterious ways, the children always enter to lift the mood, commenting on what has just happened or expanding upon it using secular poetry. The result is a beautiful marriage of the sacred and secular, of young voices expressing hope and mature voices expressing faith, that I find to be a wonderful metaphor for how those two element come together in a community. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts.

Which is why I’m so looking forward to the concerts in April that will feature not only the Rutter Mass of the Children, but the work performed by a GIANT children’s choir which combines the Mt. View, Evergreen, Bordeaux, Pioneer, Grapeview and Olympic Middle School choirs, as well as several home school students.

A total of over 150 local children who began working on the piece in January, and who will perform it with Anna’s Bay’s full Chorale and South Shore Chamber Orchestra in late April. There is no cost to participating students (or schools) each of whom will receive a score, a practice CD, a t-shirt and a DVD of the finale performance.

Additionally, the students will perform two inschool concerts for 1,000 of their local classmates in the days leading up to the public concerts.

Images courtesy of Michael Blegen, Anna’s Bay Center for Music March 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber

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Shelton Mason County Chamber

March 2012

NEWS SHELTONMASONCOUNTY

Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce

PO Box 2389 | Shelton, WA 98584

Or Current Resident

March 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber

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