GROWING A PROSPEROUS ECONOMY & VIBRANT COMMUNITY SEPTEMBER 2022 Get to Know Austin Ramirez MeetNewTumwater'sEconomicDevelopmentManager Be Heard! Your Vote Is Your Voice!
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OLY TOWN ARTESIANS FOOTBALL CLUB Ryan Perkins, Club Owner OLYFED.COM (360) 754-3400 8 LOCAL BRANCHES TO SE RVE YOU “ it’s like olyfed believes our success is their responsibility ”
“I get regular calls from the OlyFed crew with great ideas and growth opportunities,” said Club owner Ryan Perkins. “They’re always so helpful and curious about how they can benefit us.” That kind of team support has been our goal since 1906; putting real relationships above the bottom line.
Don't miss upcoming Chamber Events like Foofaraw, the Meet the Candidates Forum and the Future of Work Summit. Caught in the Lens p. 23 Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings and see the great smiles that make up our membership!
Get to Know Austin Ramirez p. 18
Join the Thurston County Chamber on Wednesday, September 21 at 11:30 a.m. at The Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake, at 2300 Evergreen Park Dr SW, Olympia, WA 98502, for a Candidates Reception & Meet the Candidates Forum. This event will feature a moderated discussion with candidates in two Thurston County races – Commissioner, District No. 3 candidates, Tye Menser and Vivian Kay Eason; and Sheriff candidates, Derek Sanders and John D. Snaza. In addition, many candidates running for public office in Thurston County will be in attendance to meet and mingle with community and business leaders. Forum includes a lunch buffet. Cost is $30 for Chamber members, $35 for non-members in advance; $35 for members, or $40 for non-members at the door. Sponsored by Accelerate Growth Coaching, TVW, and Hometown Property Management
Join our host, TVW, at 1058 Capitol Way South, Olympia, WA 98501 on Thursday, September 1 at 5:30 p.m. for the Thurston Young Professionals (TYP) monthly networking event. Enjoy bites and beverages as you expand your network and get to know other young professionals in the community! All are welcome! Feel free to invite other 20-30 year-olds.
and click on the Events Calendar for the latest information regarding Chamber events.
Join our Business After Hours hosts, American Workforce Group at 4250 Martin Way E, Suite 103, Olympia 98501 on Thursday, September 15 at 5:30 p.m., for mingling and networking with other Thurston County business professionals, games, beverages and appetizers. Business After Hours is a great opportunity to expand your network, and is proudly sponsored by ROXY 94.5 and PacificSource Health Plans. After Hours Join our Morning Mixxer hosts, Bloodworks Northwest, on Wednesday*, September 7 at 7:30 a.m. at 1220 Eastside St S, Olympia, WA 98501, for hot coffee and delicious bites! Morning Mixxer is a free event held the first Tuesday of each month (*due to Labor Day, this month's event is on Wednesday), and is a great way to meet new business connections. Chamber Ambassadors help facilitate introductions and networking. All attendees are eligible to win exciting door prizes! MIXX 96.1 proudly sponsors Morning Mixxer.
THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER VOICE MAGAZINE
thurstonchamber.com Thurston County Chamber VOICE I September 2022 I 3 In This Issue... August 2022
The City of Tumwater's new Economic Development Manager, Austin Ramirez shares his priorities, goals and aspirations for Tumwater businesses.
ThurstonChamber.com
Thurston Young Professionals is sponsored by Porcupine Media
Upcoming Events p. 20
Thurston County Voter's Guide p. 7 Candidates running in contested races for Congress, area State House and Senate legislative districts, and several Thurston County offices answer three questions about their priorities, and how they will help local businesses thrive, if elected.
The VOICE is FSC® Certified. The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC), is a non-profit organization that sets certain high standards to make sure that forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible and socially beneficial manner.
Thank You Sponsors!
Be Heard! Your Vote Is Your Voice!
The Thurston County Chamber encourages all community members to engage in public policy, get to know the candidates and vote. In November, voter turnout is expected to be excellent, with record numbers of voters at the national, state, and local levels. Races for U.S. Senate, all members of Congress, and Secretary of State will drive voter interest and turnout. Locally, there are several key races for open seats for the State Senate and House of Representatives, where the incumbent is either seeking higher office or decided not to seek reelection. Most interesting this year is the large number of contested races for Thurston County Offices on the ballot. In addition to the County Commissioner race, we have contested races for Assessor, Auditor, Clerk, Sheriff, and Treasurer on the ballot. In the past, most incumbents for these positions enjoyed running Whileunopposed. thismay be fortunate for these officials seeking to retain their fulltime job within County government, it also means that voters didn't have the opportunity to learn what the office is responsible for and how the office impacts the community. We encourage voters to gain a better understanding of the important roles and responsibilities each official has within County Government. Although some positions, such as Sheriff or Auditor, are generally understood, we can do more to understand how the Clerk, Treasurer, and Assessor can impact the residents and business.
The Thurston County Chamber and its Public Policy Division encourage all voters to understand the candidates and their positions better. It is crucial that the business community continue to be engaged in public policy. The election process enables Chamber members and voters to voice their priorities and interests with future elected leaders. Public policy is determined by those that participate. The easiest and most important step in participating is to vote.
magazine BUILDING COMMUNITY PROSPERITY SINCE 1874 THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER COPYRIGHT All material appearing in the VOICE Magazine is copyright unless otherwise stated or it may rest with the provider of the supplied material. The VOICE Magazine takes all care to ensure information is correct at time of printing, but the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for the accuracy of any information contained in the text or advertisements. ©2022 VOICE Magazine, Thurston County Chamber. PUBLISHER Thurston County Chamber of Commerce EDITORIAL David dschaffert@thurstonchamber.com360-357-3362Schaffert CONTRIBUTORS David KathrynDougSchaffertMahMillhorn Shanna Paxton Photography ADVERTISING Sales & KrystalMarketing:Barkus ElizabethAshleyBretschneiderChandler SUBSCRIPTIONS info@thurstonchamber.com360-357-3362 DESIGN Ben Hawkes Mosaic Marketing Studio COVER Courtesy of Dreamstime.com PRINTING Print NW CONTACT THE CHAMBER 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA info@thurstonchamber.com360-357-336298507thurstonchamber.com
thurstonchamber.com For more information about hiring a Morningside client visit our website… www.morningsideservices.com
Saturday, November 5 Saint Martin’s University, Lacey, Washington Saint Martin’s University Gala 2022 welcomes celebrity chef, author, and TV personality Anne Burrell. Join us for a black-tie gourmet evening that includes an exquisite dinner, cooking demos, and a live auction benefiting Saint Martin’s student scholarships. Reserve your spot and stay updated on event details at, www.stmartin.edu/2022Gala HANSON SUBARU
U.S.
Our current one-party leadership has created a government that increasingly puts our citizens last. It’s important to have a dedicated representative fighting for your rights to reverse these problems.
As a former Chamber of Commerce CEO, I know Congress can make the Small Business Administration more responsive, ensure that tax policy is more fair, and invest in workforce training.
Theundertake.incredible achievements of American workers and entrepreneurs have changed the world permanently for the better. We must fight to reverse the new tax increases on small and mid-sized businesses.
Two-Year Term
Voter’sGuide
3. How can [your desired position] best support local
This year, we asked candidates running in contested races for Congress, area State House and Senate legislative districts, and several Thurston County offices to answer three questions. We hope their short answers give you a better idea about their priorities, how they can help local businesses, and why voters should care about candidates' work when elected.
As a Police Captain and proud US Army veteran the safety and rights of our country and our communities will be paramount in every task and vote I
The South Sound is one of our state’s fastest-growing regions. We need a representative who can deliver resources, and make our community more safe, more just, and more secure.
10thRepresentativeCongressionalDistrict
QUESTIONS:businesses?
3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
SwankKeith
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities? My top priorities remain supporting our South Sound economy, lowering costs for families and small businesses, and delivering federal transportation & infrastructure investments to alleviate our region’s challenges.
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
StricklandMarilyn
thurstonchamber.com Thurston County Chamber VOICE I September 2022 I 7 THURSTON COUNTY
Each of the positions on the ballot play an important role in shaping how and what government services are provided at the Federal, State, and County level. Each elected official can help shape the economic tone and reputation of our region. The Thurston County Chamber and its Public Policy Division encourage all voters to use this guide as a starting point to learn about the role and responsibilities of each office. Public policy is determined by those that participate. The most straightforward and most crucial step to participate is to vote.
Please remember to vote in this year's general election.
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities?
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Legislators work with businesses and constituents across the district to leverage state dollars for community priorities, roads and transit, education, and infrastructure strengthening our economy and improving quality of life. The legislature creates and increases business, sales, income and property taxes; spends YOUR tax dollars; passed laws that increased crime, drug abuse, and homelessness; and created a failing education system.
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
Two-Year Term
1) Police/Critical State employee shortage; 2) Support Local Business; 3) Infrastructure; 4) Better Management of Green/Renewable Energy; 5) Hemp pulp products to Reduce the stress on wood pulp supplies
Legislative District 2 Pos. 2 Two-Year Term 3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
1) Housing, including affordability, supply, and housing/services for our most vulnerable neighbors, 2) Equitably addressing climate change, 3) Workforce issues including increasing training opportunities and addressing worker shortages. Education, evidence based energy and environmental policies, public safety, drug abuse, mental health, and homelessness. District 22 Representative Pos. 1
thurstonchamber.com Thurston County Chamber VOICE I September 2022 I 9
Representative
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities?
Washington needs political balance and that means the input of all citizens, rural, small town and big cities. It's critical that Western WA positions outside of Seattle have strong and effective representatives.
2) No one pays more than 30% in total taxes with the present tax codes.
Local business gets lots of lipservice and near zero real consideration from the governing majority. As one of the few local businesspeople in the Legislature I never let them forget that perspective.
The 2nd District is a fast growing area with a growing population of mixed political standing, mixed business types, and need for upgrading of infrastructure.
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
WilcoxJT
MeerEd
I came to Olympia to stand for sustainable budgets that demand less taxes from the citizens and delivers more value. Our public schools are in a crisis that will get much worse. A priority is to stand for the Students and parents now.
Legislative
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities?
3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
Investing in education and all post-secondary education/training to ensure our young people are prepared to enter the workforce and addressing the inequity of the flat B&O tax on gross income. Reduce the B&O tax and/or make it based on net profit. Address the root causes of homelessness and property crime. Ensure reliable and affordable energy. Create a motivated labor force.
1) Change the tax from a gross to net income.
DoglioBeth ByrnesLoretta
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1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
GriffeyDan
Legislative District 22 Representative Pos. 2
No submission as of deadline.
Voters should care about the work of their State Representatives because they make laws that reflect the needs and values of the Builddistrict.astrong economy; Public Safety & Education: funding our first responders who keep our communities safe and schools, because education is key for the future of our society. Reduce State spending & Reduce taxes; Support law enforcement to counter the current crime wave.
By prioritizing job and housing affordability, supporting thriving small businesses, and strong communities.
Each industry generates family wage jobs, improves affordability across our region, and improves the health of our communities.
As your state Representative, I value your input and work to advocate for state investments that enhance our region’s economic, social, and environmental priorities.
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities?
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities? No submission as of deadline.
It is important to understand everyone’s needs. People want their loved ones to be safe, affordable prices, no government gimmicks and honesty. My job is to fight for them all. My top priorities are public safety, transparency and accessibility to your government, quality education and a stable and predictable business environment. I also work directly with constituent’s individual concerns.
No submission as of deadline.
Two-Year Term 3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
BatemanJessica
Two-Year Term 3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
Thurston County Chamber VOICE I September 2022 I 11
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
Stability is critical for business. I work diligently to stop burdensome regulations, red tape and support streamlining permits and promoting consistency throughout our state. Stop crime is a top priority.
PlagerKate
Legislative District 35 Representative Pos. 1
Housing, healthcare, and a green economy.
DeHartJames
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Legislative DistrictSenator35
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities? My priorities are supporting abundant local jobs, reducing reliance on long-distance supply chains, protecting our environment, and strengthening community relationships to leave a good legacy for our great grandchildren.
CoutureTravis
crucially important, as they will vote on or change laws surrounding crime, education, taxes, and many other critical issues that directly affect you. My top priorities are restoring public safety and supporting our first responders, improving our kids’ education, reducing costs for families and making it easier for business to grow and operate.
We can have a direct impact on communities via policies involving taxes, regulations, education, transportation, infrastructure, and public safety. All of these impact our day to day lives.
KaiserSandy
Folks who live here often commute into Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater to work and shop. When the 35th thrives, we all do.
Much of Thurston County lies in the 35th!
Legislative District 35 Representative Pos. 2
thurstonchamber.com Thurston County Chamber VOICE I September 2022 I 13
3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
Most state policy directly or indirectly effects business. I will tackle needed tax relief, review regulations that harm our economy, and fight to rein in state agencies from scope creep.
Four-Year Term
3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
By listening. As a small business owner I know first hand the consequences of legislation. But not all businesses are affected the same. I promise to listen to your concerns.
GaleJulianne
The work of your state Representative is
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
Two-Year Term
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
As your state senator, I will listen to the concerns of local small businesses. I will partner with you to support local growth and innovation to build a regenerative economy.
MacEwenDrew
My priorities are quality K12 education, a strong economy that promotes growth, ensuring we give adequate funding to public safety, and enact sustainable budgets with adequate surpluses.
By expanding support for affordable, quality childcare; making it easier to build affordable housing; strengthening local funding for workforce development; and ensuring we get our share of key infrastructure investment.
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities? Supporting local business and familywage job growth, fully funding our schools, protecting sustainable forestry and our shellfish industry, and defending reproductive rights.
The 35th LD Senator represents the voice of our community when making statewide laws. A good state senator makes sure that our district receives the resources it needs to thrive.
the drc is your The Dispute Resolution of Thurston County provides a variety of online and in-person resources to help businesses and organizations prevent conflict, resolve conflict, and improve communication. Workplace Mediation Group Facilitation Customized Training community resource Contact us to explore how the DRC can serve your needs: (360) 956 1155 info@mediatethurston.org MediateThurston.org KGY Radio is now Radio & Digital Marketing Solutions Customized for Your Business Geo-Targeted Display & Video • Email Blasts Programmatic & Retargeting • OTT • Social Media Contact Us Today! 360-943-1240 LOCAL, FAMILY-OWNED MEDIA SINCE 1939 KGYMediaGroup.com HELPING THECOMESCOMMUNITYOURWITHTERRITORY. Around here, “business as usual” means giving back to the community. It means leading by example. Paying it forward. And doing good, where good is needed most. Our commitment to local philanthropy is as important as our commitment to our ColumbiaBank.com(877)customers.272-3678 MemberEqualFDICHousing Lender
ThurstonAssessorCounty
My top priorities are : End “no bid” contracts. Make financial information easily accessible through the website. Accurate, thorough, and meticulous audits made public. Rebuild the trust that has been eroded.
Households and businesses take on taxation in ownership of their property. They should receive fair and accurate evaluations to maintain stability in their plans.
As Assessor I apply tax laws impartially and assure the integrity of our property valuation system, so each taxpayer contributes only its appropriate share of the property tax burden. Under my leadership the office has been widely recognized as a state leader in maximizing transparency, efficient use of technology and consistently producing equitable values for all taxable properties. Businesses rely upon the services funded through property tax. Public confidence assures stability in services like fire, criminal justice and education. We are always accessible when businesses have concerns.
Work to rebuild trust in elections & combat false rhetoric. Enhance security at our Ballot Processing Center. Strengthen grant policies and support to county offices. Expand our internal/external audit program.
The Auditor plays a vital role in County Government. I oversee elections, recording, vehicle licensing, passports, grants, and county finance. The Auditor is the gatekeeper of democracy and integrity matters.
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
Four-Year Term
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities?
DrewSteven
Our office must be excellent at the business of government. Ethical. Fair. andweEfficientoriented. Customer-focused.Transparent. Value-Forward-looking.andeffective. Throughgreatservicesupporteconomicsuccessforbusinessescitizens.
Listen to them and respond. Use least restrictive policies instead of most restrictive: fair and honest. Include the business community in policy changes. Support them for better business.
3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
KolarDave
When the county books are accurately kept and waste is minimized, less taxation is needed, leading to prosperity for businesses and individuals. MilitelloSal
Dept of Revenue will complete a full spectrum audit, the Board of Equalization (B.O.E.) will be allowed to do their job, and create a senior outreach to help seniors financially.
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities?
Four-Year Term
The county auditor is the most important financial officer in county government. Well beyond partisanship is the need for open, honest, and accurate accounting.
HallMary
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
Thurston AuditorCounty
thurstonchamber.com Thurston County Chamber VOICE I September 2022 I 15
Thurston CountyClerk
By providing access and case information that potentially impacts a business that is involved in a Superior Court case.
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities?
MooreTonya
Support and fund law enforcement to create a healthier and safer community. Develop permanent solutions to the drug and mental health crisis. Reduce excess regulation to enhance property rights.
The regional economy is evolving, and we need to focus on policies and strategies that promote innovation, working hand in hand with our Economic Development Council. Collaboration is key.
Four-Year Term
3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
While the Clerk’s office doesn’t provide any unique support directly to local businesses, by providing accessible, easy-to-understand services, everyone who interacts with the court will hopefully feel supported... a culture of quality and transparency...
It is important that all laws are followed by the clerk and that the Superior Court record is preserved forever for the public. Continue working collaboratively with the judges and other agencies to improve services; Expand services to victims of domestic violence/abuse; Expand electronic documents in courtroom with automatic distribution to users.
ThurstonCommissionerCountyDistrictNo.3
3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
Continuing to attack the housing crisis, building strong, alternative pathways to incarceration in the justice system, and continuing to make sure we adequately protect our environment as the County grows.
MenserTye
The clerk’s office is tasked with maintaining orderly courtrooms by processing legal paperwork and communicating with them about scheduling appearances in court. When members of the public call into the clerk’s office, they are often looking for courtroom resources...
Create community hubs where court users can get necessary forms and information without having to come to the courthouse; Develop and implement a language access plan; Provide trauma-informed training to all staff. Increase the retention rate for clerk’s office staff.
EnlowLinda Ellipses indicates submission was longer than 30 words.
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities?
thurstonchamber.com16 I September 2022 I Thurston County Chamber VOICE
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
In addition to our direct responsibilities, County government is relied upon to take state and federal resources and policy changes and integrate them across the various jurisdictions within the County.
Four-Year Term
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
District 3 Commissioner is on Board and represents all the people of Thurston County. Commissioners represents the community on Boards such as Planning, Board of Health, Medic One, LOTT, etc.
Provide a business-friendly environment with less regulations and excessive fees. Support activities to attract tourists. Create a safer businesses environment to lessen the hardship from theft and violence.
EasonVivian
Public safety matters to all voters and citizens of Thurston County. In order to have a vibrant and safe community, the elected Sheriff must lead this collaborative effort.
I will listen to the needs and concerns of businesses countywide. Deputies will continue the practice of routine business checks to build relationships and trust to address issues timely.
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities? If elected, my top priority will be improving the fiscal strength of the county. In recent years, voter approved and non-voter approved debt has ballooned, making that goal more challenging.
Small business is the backbone of any community in terms of jobs, and services offered. If elected, I will advocate for local business in any capacity available to the Treasurer.
The Sheriff is the Chief Executive Officer and conservator of the peace. The Sheriff has the influence to shape the culture of law enforcement county wide.
GadmanJeff
I will continue to advocate for legislation that favors taxpayers and continue to implement products that make it easier for people to do business with my office.
SnazaJohn
A. Public safety; curb the crime wave B. Run a transparent office that is accountable to the people C. Improve morale by redirecting resources to rank and file employees CountySheriff
By continuing to be a resource helping businesses understand our tax laws and by continuing to advocate for tax laws that make the most sense for business.
Thurston
The work of the Treasurer directly impacts their pocketbooks. In addition to its function of accounting for tax collection, the Treasurer makes decisions regarding paying down debt and investing county funds.
1. Why should voters care about the work of the [position you're running for]?
Four-Year Term
3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
1) Public Safety: Innovative Technology, Collaboration, and Narcotics Task Force. 2) Employee Health and Wellness: Peer Support, Increased Staffing, Retention Bonus. 3) Partnerships: Law Enforcement, Fire, Mental Health, Businesses, Tribes, and Community.
CurryJeff
SandersDerek
2. If elected, what will be your top priorities?
Four-Year Term 3. How can [your desired position] best support local businesses?
The sheriff can best support business by suppressing crime, building partnerships, and educating the public.
ThurstonTreasurerCounty
thurstonchamber.com Thurston County Chamber VOICE I September 2022 I 17
This position serves as the banking and investment officer for the county and over 40 tax districts, and requires a thorough knowledge of financial, banking, and investment laws and functions.
NEWTUMWATER’SECONOMICDEVELOPMENTMANAGERGETTOKNOWBYKATHRYNMILLHORN
RamirezAustin
His experience in similar development jobs will be a tremendous benefit for this new role. “I had just started looking for new career opportunities in Washington when I came across a post on LinkedIn about the new Economic Development Manager position at the City of Tumwater. I knew of their brewery and craft district work from some peers who had consulted for the city and was immediately interested in the opportunity. I found the post a few hours before the job listing closed, so I rushed to sneak in an application before the deadline. A few months later and here we are!”
thurstonchamber.com
“I first visited Oregon in 2014 and quickly fell in love with the Pacific Northwest,” says Ramirez. “Over the years I found myself coming back for any excuse to visit and convinced myself it would just be cheaper to relocate. In 2018, I finally convinced my thengirlfriend, now-wife and moved to Eugene, Oregon for an economic development position at Lane County. A few years and several adventures later, we have not looked back and could not be happier to now be in Washington state. California and Oregon have been great to us, and we visit often, but Washington is where we plan to put down roots and start a family.”
Ramirez has worked in city and county government for the majority of his career. “Between my experience in California and Oregon, I have been lucky to dive into a variety of economic development work that made this opportunity in Tumwater possible.”
The City of Tumwater recently added an Economic Development Manager position and chose Austin Ramirez to fill it. Like the job, he’s new to our area but has big plans to build a future in the Evergreen State.
thurstonchamber.com Thurston County Chamber VOICE I September 2022 I 19
Growth is exciting and thanks to the foresight of our leaders and energy of new hires like Austin Ramirez, Tumwater and the entire Pacific Northwest will benefit in the end.
I am here to be a resource for businesses, so please don’t hesitate to contact me for help with anything. I know how overwhelming it can be for a business owner to navigate local codes, access state and federal programs, understand their options all while trying to operate their business. I am here to help, and if I don’t know the answer, we are fortunate to be in a region with so many great partners who can also help. I am connecting with local businesses every week, so if anyone has any other questions or just has a particular topic they want to brainstorm about, feel free to reach out!”
“With regards to my role in daily governance, it really is to implement the Council’s vision set out in the Economic Development Plan and provide professional recommendations on how to achieve those goals. Doing that successfully will require actively fostering collaboration with our many economic development partners, particularly business support organizations like the Thurston Chamber, Tumwater Chamber, and EDC, just to name a few. As well as other government agencies, the local business community, and many others. I have also found that it’s critical for roles like mine to elevate the voice of the local business community to ensure their perspective is considered when we are making important policy decisions.” Whatever lies ahead, Ramirez is excited for the challenge. “I really hope that we continue to create an environment where current Tumwater businesses see this community as an excellent place to grow, and where new businesses and entrepreneurs see this community as an excellent place to start. Much of that work is already underway, so I am excited to continue to support that ongoing effort.”
His schedule may be busy, but Ramirez enjoys taking a break when he can. “Outside of work, most of my hobbies revolve around my love of food and the outdoors. This region has so much to offer in both those areas and it’s been amazing to explore. My ideal day off would include hiking through the woods for some mushrooms—oysters, morels, and summer chanterelles this time of year—fishing and crabbing from my kayak, and then making dinner with my wife from the day’s bounty while sneaking scraps to our two pups. Mix in some local craft beverages in all that and I can’t think of a better day! My wife jokingly (I think) claims that she married me because of my cooking, so I have to stay on top of my game!”
Though a new position within Tumwater’s hierarchy, the city has long been working towards enhancing economic development opportunities. “This position has been a strategic goal for the Tumwater City Council for a long time,” says Ramirez, “largely out of a desire to support resilient, sustainable, and equitable economic development as envisioned in their Economic Development Plan.”
And he welcomes input from residents and business owners alike. Officials are still updating the website but, in the meantime, “I just want folks to know they are welcome to reach me anytime. My direct line is 360.754.4188, or they can always email me at aramirez@ci.tumwater.wa.us.
thurstonchamber.com20 I September 2022 I Thurston County Chamber VOICE
• Nurture community relationships with educators and other business owners. This exciting one-day event is open to the public. Learn how to turn challenges into opportunities at The Future of Work Summit and EXPO on October 12, 2022, at the Olympia Hotel from 8 am to 2 pm. Learn more and register at thurstonchamber.com
12OCTOBERWEDNESDAYSEPTEMBERFRIDAY98AM–2PMTHEOLYMPIAHOTELATCAPITOLLAKE Is
• Find out how to use apprenticeships as a recruitment strategy.
One dictionary defines Foofaraw as "much ado about nothing" and, at one point in history the official "purpose" of the day, claimed that a "Foofarite [military attendee] has earned the right to say 'Foof' to all duties and responsibilities for one day each year."
Foofaraw! 2022
• Understand best practices in developing an internship program.
EVENTS
Sponsor tickets for this year’s event are limited and available to Chamber Members only. We are collecting donations for the free military raffle that takes place throughout the day. For more information about Foofaraw or to make a donation, please call the Chamber at 360.357.3362. Your Organization's Talent Pipeline Keeping Pace with Innovation and Today's Economy?
• Gather tools to create a talent pipeline.
The event averages two service members to every one civilian. For the last several years, the Port of Olympia has shown their gratitude of service to our military by arranging an unofficial send-off which includes representatives from local police, medic, and fire departments, and hanging a large American flag from one of their cranes.
Gather the skills, tools and relationships to develop or expand your workforce pipeline at the Future of Work Summit and EXPO on October 12, 2022!
Now in its 60th year, the Thurston County Chamber will once again partner with the Olympia Yacht Club to host local military personnel at Foofaraw, an event unmatched anywhere else in the world. Always the first Friday after Labor Day, we will be shoving off from the Olympia Yacht Club main station Friday, Sept. 9. Foofaraw has gained in popularity with every passing year and is well-known throughout the United States Armed Forces. Yacht club members transport guests to Island Home, where the Yacht Club and the Chamber treat them to a full day of games and a terrific salmon barbecue lunch. Finally, local dignitaries honor the military personnel.
Successful businesses need a skilled workforce. Low unemployment means savvy business owners must find new ways to find employees. At the Summit, you will:
• Learn how to develop an on - the - job training program.
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Both are pivotal races with regional significance.
EVENTS THE OLYMPIA
This event will feature two races: Thurston County Commissioner, District No. 3 Tye Menser Vivian Kay Eason
Meet Candidates!the
DOWNSTAIRS
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EVERGREEN
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Wednesday September 21 • 11:30am Join the Thurston Chamber on Wednesday, September 21 at 11:30am at The Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake to meet the candidates at a Candidates Reception and learn more about featured races: Thurston County Commissioner and Thurston County Sheriff. Don't miss this celebration of policy and people. HOTEL CAPITOL LAKE, 2300 PARK DR. SW, OLYMPIA, WA 98502 BALLROOM
Doug Mah, Director of Thurston Chamber’s Public Policy team, will moderate the discussion. In addition, a large contingent of candidates running for public office in Thurston County will be at Forum and the Candidates Reception to meet and mingle with community and business leaders. Candidates in all races are encouraged to arrive early and stay late for as much oneon-one conversation with Chamber members as possible. For tickets and more information, visit ThurstonChamber.com.
Thurston County Sheriff Derek Sanders John D. Snaza
Caught in the Lens
Photos from Forum courtesy of Shanna Paxton Photography, (indicated by teal outline)
thurstonchamber.com22 I September 2022 I Thurston County Chamber VOICEKeepup with the Thurston Chamber happenings – ribbon cuttings and the networking events. Find more at the Chamber's Facebook page –fb.com/thurstoncountychamber.
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