August 2023 VOICE Magazine

SAINT MARTIN’S UNIVERSITY GALA 2023

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Join us for the Saint Martin’s Gala as we host three special guests: Chefs Tom Douglas, Thierry Rautureau, also known as The Chef in The Hat™, and Italian butcher Dario Cecchini.

Guests will immerse themselves in a rustic Pacific Northwest atmosphere as they savor the unique styles and flavors of our renowned guests.

Enjoy cooking demos, live auction and an after party all benefiting Saint Martin’s University student scholarships.

Learn more about this year’s guests and event details at www.stmartin.edu/Gala or call 360-438-4366.

TOM DOUGLAS

DARIO CECCHINI

THIERRY RAUTUREAU

HANSON SUBARU

August 2023

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER VOICE MAGAZINE

Visit ThurstonChamber.com and click on the Events Calendar for the latest information regarding Chamber events.

Join our host, Olympia Country & Golf Club at 3636 Country Club Dr, Olympia, WA 98501 on Thursday, August 3 at 5:30 p.m. for Thurston Young Professionals Monthly Networking Event. Enjoy bites and beverages as you expand your network! All are welcome – feel free to invite other 20 to 30-year-olds so they can expand their networks! Thurston Young Professionals is sponsored by Cash Oasis/Media Drive and KGY Media Group.

After Hours

Join our Business After Hours host 1st Security Bank at 2610 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia, WA 98502 on Thursday, August 17 at 5:30 p.m., for mingling and networking with other business professionals, a door prize business card drawing, beverages and appetizers. Business After Hours is a great opportunity to expand your network, and it is proudly sponsored by ROXY 94.5 and PacificSource Health Plans.

Join the Chamber on Wednesday, August 16 at 11:00 a.m., at the Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake at 2300 Evergreen Park Dr SW, Olympia, WA 98502, for its August Forum.

Keynote speaker Tiffany Scroggs, Thurston EDC's Washington PTAC Program Director, will share valuable insights into government contracting and its potential to fuel business growth. The event will include a BIPOC Business EXPO, featuring members of South Sound BIPOC. SSBIPOC is an effort supported by the Chamber Foundation to provide visibility, education and marketing opportunities to businesses owned and run by BIPOC community members. Thank you to our Forum Sponsors South Sound YMCA, Mullinax Ford and Aletheia Digital Media.

Thank You Sponsors!

In This Issue...

Leading Lacey to New Heights p. 6

After 23 years of service to the City of Lacey, Rick Walk assumes a new role, as City Manager.

Tumwater's New City Administrator p. 10

Lisa Parks, joined Tumwater's team in June 2023, but has been a civil servant for much of her professional career.

Building Leaders from the Ground Up p. 15

Lincoln Creek Lumber prides themselves on helping support families, organizations and businesses across Thurston and Lewis counties.

Caught in the Lens p. 22

Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings and see the great smiles that make up our membership!

Changing Leadership

by David Schaffert, President/CEO, Thurston County Chamber

In this month’s issue of the voice, we highlight Rick Walk, the new City Manager of Lacey and Lisa Parks new City Administrator of Tumwater. The Chamber is excited for the opportunities that change presents for Lacey and Tumwater, and we are working to strengthen ties to support the new leadership.

Rick and Lisa have inherited healthy organizations from their predecessors to build upon and their elected bodies are seasoned and established leaders who will provide support on the policy end.

Often leadership changes bring with it new opportunities such as fresh vision and perspective, renewed energy and motivation, different approach to strategic alignment, enhanced collaboration and expanded partnership. This is not to say that many of these elements are not already in place, but for whatever reason when change occurs, they seem to rise as opportunities.

I encourage people over the next several months to reach out to Rick and Lisa to introduce yourself, your efforts in your business or organization. In this moment of change there is no better opportunity to support new leadership.

Move forward Wi th Journey Checkin g

*JOURNEY CHECKING DISCLOSURE: Variable interest rate account. Rates effective as of June 2, 2023, and subject to change anytime and without notice. • An interest rate of 0.05% will be paid only for that portion of your daily balance that is greater than $10,000.00. The annual percentage yield for this tier will range from 3.60% to 0.40%, depending on the balance in the account. • If your daily balance is $10,000.00 or less, the interest rate paid on the entire balance will be 3.49% with an annual percentage yield of 3.60%* • If your account does not have the required activity noted below* an interest rate of 0.05% will be paid on the entire balance. The annual percentage yield for the entire balance will be 0.05%, depending on the balance in the account. *Premium rate requires monthly direct deposit of $500 or more, debit card activation and 10 debit transactions posted per statement cycle, enrollment in retail online banking and signing up to receive eStatements, and maintaining active online banking access as outlined in the Online Banking Terms & Conditions Agreement. One account per Social Security Number. Minimum $100.00 to open an account. Fees may reduce earnings and rate may change after account opening.

Rick Walk

by Natasha Ashenhurst • Photography by Shanna Paxton Photography

LEADING THE CITY OF LACEY TO NEW HEIGHTS

With over 23 years of dedicated service to the City of Lacey, Rick Walk has recently assumed the role of City Manager, bringing his wealth of experience and passion for urban and regional planning and economic initiatives to the forefront of the city's growth and development. Walk's deep connection to the community and extensive background in various roles within the City positions him as a pivotal figure in shaping Lacey's future.

What initially attracted Walk to the position of City Manager was his enduring commitment to the City of Lacey. Having spent a decade as a project planner, Walk was involved in a wide range of initiatives, including permitting, economic development, and strategic planning. Throughout his tenure, he witnessed the City's remarkable growth from a population of 29,000 to just under 60,000, along with significant expansion in industrial, commercial, and residential sectors. This firsthand experience fostered a strong desire to see the community continue to thrive and allowed him to develop an in-depth understanding of the City's unique needs and challenges.

When presented with the opportunity to serve as interim City Manager, Walk accepted the interim position and gained a fresh perspective on Lacey. In the interim role, Rick was able to work with a talented, knowledgeable, and dedicated group of directors and staff in a new capacity. After which, he embraced the role wholeheartedly, acknowledging that it offered him an avenue for personal growth and an opportunity to build upon the foundations set by his predecessors. "As interim city manager, I was able to see the city from a different perspective and saw it as an opportunity to serve, as a rejuvenating way to learn and grow, and continue the work previous managers set in place," he said.

Rick Walk, City Manager, City of Lacey

"Over the years, I've developed a leadership style that is generally inclusive. I want people to know what they are working toward. Like making sure there is an opportunity for everyone to provide input into a project or decision and understand why that decision was made."

Walk is particularly passionate about realizing the vision of the City Council, such as expanding the parks system, developing additional active park spaces, maintaining infrastructure, and transforming the Midtown area into a vibrant mixed-use urban neighborhood. To achieve these goals, he has fostered partnerships with institutions like South Puget Sound Community College, Saint Martin's University, the Thurston Economic Development Council, and local chambers of commerce, creating a collaborative environment for implementing projects that serve the region as a whole.

Leveraging his extensive experience in urban planning, Walk aims to bring a comprehensive perspective to his role as City Manager. He understands the importance of delving into the details of each project while keeping a broader vision in mind. This approach enables him to make informed decisions that align with long-term goals while considering the immediate impact on various stakeholders. His collaborative leadership style ensures that all voices are heard, empowering individuals to contribute to projects and decisions, and fostering a shared understanding

of the rationale behind each choice. This inclusivity extends to the community, businesses, nonprofits, and residents, as Walk actively seeks their input and involvement in shaping a thriving and inclusive city. "Over the years, I've developed a leadership style that is generally inclusive. I want people to know what they are working toward. Like making sure there is an opportunity for everyone to provide input into a project or decision and understand why that decision was made. My land use experience lends itself well to facilitating conversation, getting people to buy into a vision or goal, and helping define how we reach those goals," he said.

Infrastructure improvements are vital to Lacey's success, and Walk has identified several priorities in this area. Foremost among them is constructing a new police station to replace the outdated and overcrowded facility. The city is finalizing the acquisition of a property from Saint Martin's Abbey, and plans are underway for the $58 million project. The City aims to fund this endeavor through a combination of reserves and revenue bonds, ensuring the burden does not fall on taxpayers.

Additionally, Walk emphasizes the importance of enhancing transportation infrastructure. Completing College Street improvements, including an extension to 15th Avenue, is a significant goal, as it will alleviate traffic congestion and promote smoother travel within the City. Furthermore, he envisions the development of parks and recreational facilities, such as the all-access children's playground, soft-surface trails, and an 18-hole disc golf course at the new Greg Cuoio Park. These projects will provide community members and visitors valuable recreational opportunities and position Lacey as a premier destination within Thurston County.

As the City of Lacey navigates the post-pandemic recovery period, Walk remains steadfast in addressing pressing issues such as promoting tourism and revitalizing the childcare sector. He recognizes the importance of creating a network supporting local businesses, ensuring exceptional service and visitor experiences. Furthermore, Walk aims to collaborate with relevant agencies and organizations to address the critical need for affordable, high-quality childcare, particularly for families connected to Joint Base Lewis McChord.

Under Walk's leadership, the City of Lacey is set to embark on a new era of growth and collaboration. By fostering relationships with external stakeholders, including the business community, nonprofits, and educational institutions, he aims to create a robust ecosystem that benefits everyone in the community. The strong network of partnerships and resources will bolster Lacey's trajectory, building upon the progress made in recent years and positioning the City for continued success.

As Rick Walk assumes the role of Lacey City Manager, he brings a profound dedication to the community and a vision for its future. With his extensive experience, collaborative leadership style, and unwavering commitment to growth and inclusivity, Walk is poised to lead Lacey into a prosperous era of development where the City's potential can be fully realized.

By fostering relationships with external stakeholders, including the business community, nonprofits, and educational institutions, Walk aims to create a robust ecosystem that benefits everyone in the community.

by Kathryn Millhorn • Photography by Shanna Paxton Photography

We don’t always realize how much goes on behind the scenes in our hometown.

we live, work, play, and raise families without a

administration it takes to operate an entire city. Thanks to lifelong civil servants like Tumwater’s new City Administrator, Lisa Parks,

for

Parks joined Tumwater’s team in June 2023, but this isn’t her first foray into government. She explains that she’s held similar positions throughout her career and enjoys “working for communities of all different sizes to foster a high quality of life. City governments, in particular, are the direct, frontline service providers impacting peoples’ lives in the places they call home. It’s exciting to join the outstanding team in Tumwater and be a part of building a prosperous, healthy, and vibrant future for our community.”

She finds it professionally rewarding “being part of an organization intent on creating a people-oriented

and highly livable community with a strong economy, dynamic places, vibrant neighborhoods, a healthy natural environment, diverse and engaged residents, and a living connection to its history.”

But overseeing so many moving parts has its challenges. Parks admits there are complex and dynamic aspects of growth which take intentional decision-making. “Many of these require collaboration and partnerships to move the needle,” she says. “I have a firm commitment to working in proactive and effective team environments with meaningful discussions, collaborative brainstorming, and strong partnerships.”

When things run smoothly,

thought

the

that’s exactly how it should be.

Lisa Parks

Meet Tumwater’s New City Administrator

Lisa Parks, City Administrator, City of Tumwater

Partnerships like those with the Thurston County Chamber and Thurston Economic Development Council. The city has also benefitted from Tumwater’s first Economic Development Manager, who was hired in 2022 to connect with and assist the local business community. Residents, non-profit groups, and local organizations are also welcome to participate in building the future. “We continue to refine outreach and communications efforts to be inclusive and equitable on a variety of platforms,” says Parks.

Issues like infrastructure and urban planning may not seem terribly exciting but imagine a day without roads, sidewalks, parks, schools, or the necessities of 21st century life. Funding and facilitating this inevitable growth requires constant juggling. But Parks understands that “in nearly every instance, balancing the economic development needs of the community with important environmental protections to ensure a sustainable future has been a significant consideration. I intend to invest

“We continue to refine outreach and communications efforts to be inclusive and equitable on a variety of platforms.”

“I have a strong belief in the notion that we can do more, together, and hope to continue the partnerships Tumwater already enjoys, and to find new ways to collaborate with our partners, stakeholders, and community.”

my knowledge and expertise from past experiences in the City's collaborative efforts to help shape the community and sustain and grow the quality of life in Tumwater and the region.”

Tumwater hopes to hold on to history well into the future. “Our economic development plan is centered around the legacy of brewing,” says Parks. “We are excited to welcome the newest tenants in the Craft District, who are helping us to realize the next step toward the redevelopment of the Brewery District. We have leveraged this momentum to reinvigorate partnerships and opportunities on the former brewery properties, including securing a grant from the Federal Environmental Protection Agency to help with understanding the best path toward redevelopment.”

She and the city also plan to build a stronger Washington by investing in our local childcare network, tackling the housing boom through developing more than 1,200 new units, and shining a light on affordable- and senior-housing projects.

Looking towards the future, Parks is proud of the city’s “well-established reputation as a convener and that we place high value on regional partnerships.” She hopes to build on that foundation while adding in her fresh perspective in a way that enhances current relationships and identifies opportunities for tomorrow.

At the end of the day, Parks believes in transparency, communication, and celebrating Tumwater’s unique, rich history. “I have a strong belief in the notion that we can do more together, and hope to continue the partnerships Tumwater already enjoys, and to find new ways to collaborate with our partners, stakeholders, and community.” Which is a win/win for us all.

us.”

LINCOLN CREEK LUMBER: Building Leaders from the Ground Up

by Kathryn Millhorn

Photography

Exemplifying leadership doesn’t always mean standing in front of people, telling them what to do. Leadership should be lived, learned through experience, and embodied in everyday actions and relationships. At Lincoln Creek Lumber, they offer more than 120 years of knowledge and know-how. Their team is happy to support families, organizations, and businesses across Thurston and Lewis counties. Jeremy Scott, General Manager, is part of Lincoln Creek Lumber’s founding family and works hard to continue this legacy into the next century.

• Photos by Shanna Paxton

"We know that growth for our customers is growth for us and that is the kind of partnership they can expect from

– Jeremy Scott, General Manager

Lincoln Creek Lumber started in 1906 when William H. Thompson purchased Centralia’s Lincoln Creek Mill. They’ve survived everything from the Great Depression to COVID-19 and pride themselves in supplying superior services, quality merchandise at competitive prices and continually expanding to offer more than just lumber. Their stores showcase fishing gear, tools, sports gear, coolers, garden supplies, a Dream In Color Paint Studio, and much more.

“I have been working for this company almost my entire working life,” Scott explains. “I started while in high school and left to try a couple things prior to returning and working my way up. I am currently responsible for the leadership and direction of the company and always interested in anything with leadership; whatever can help build and inspire a strong and effective team.”

Lincoln Creek Lumber started in 1906. Their stores showcase fishing gear, tools, sports gear, coolers, garden supplies, a Dream In Color Paint Studio, and much more.

Their management team and staff appreciate the many ways to share, learn, and grow thanks to the Thurston County Chamber. They’ve participated in community events, virtual seminars and learning sessions, and onsite ribbon cuttings.

Scott suggests new businesses always have a problem-solving mindset when first starting out. “When you get frustrated, don’t focus on the frustration, but figure out what’s causing it,” he recommends. “Typically, this will be a misunderstanding or miscommunication; figure that out, fix it, and move on.”

He also suggests being adaptable when looking towards—and planning for—the future. During the Great Depression, Lincoln Creek’s mill was forced to close but the company endured by reselling lumber and moldings from other mills. Today they have four store locations as well as a full lumberyard and a large selection of items from Ace Hardware. “Not only do we have what people need for their projects but great items for their lives,” says Scott. “We even added a Graphics division to expand offerings to businesses and assist with their own promotion and brand because their growth is hopefully our growth.”

And no matter how large, enduring, or successful a business becomes, the strongest foundations are based on friendship. “My hope for 2023 and beyond is to create strong relationships with contractors and builders in our community,” says Scott. “I hope none of our customers ever feel like they are just an account or just a transaction. We care about

their project and how they operate and provide options and solutions to problems that may arise. We know that growth for our customers is growth for us and that is the kind of partnership they can expect from us.”

Know someone looking for work? Lincoln Creek Lumber is always looking for kind, helpful team players for their Tumwater, Centralia, and Chehalis locations. “If being part of a successful team and helping to solve problems sounds like something you would enjoy, we would enjoy meeting you,” says Scott.

It’s said that a leader is someone who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way. At Lincoln Creek Lumber, they’ve been embodying this mindset for generations and have the longevity to prove it. Find locations, forms, resources, and contact information at www.LincolnCreekLumber.com today.

Who: Thurston County Chamber

What: August Forum: Unveiling the Power of Government Contracting for Business Growth

When: Wednesday, August 16, 2023 at 11:30 am

Where: Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake

Tickets: https://members.thurstonchamber.com/ events/Details/august-chamber-forum-bipocbusiness-expo-848678?sourceTypeId=Website.

Unveiling the Power of Government Contracting for Business Growth

Thurston County Chamber Monthly Forum Presents Keynote Speaker, Tiffany Scroggs

The Thurston County Chamber is pleased to announce that its upcoming monthly Forum, scheduled for August 16, will feature Tiffany Scroggs, Thurston EDC’s Washington PTAC Program Director, as the keynote speaker. The event will take place at the Olympia Hotel at Capital Lake, providing an excellent opportunity for local businesses to gain valuable insights into government contracting and its potential to fuel business growth.

Government contracting has emerged as a crucial avenue for businesses to expand their operations and establish long-term success. With extensive experience and expertise in the field, Tiffany Scroggs will offer attendees valuable knowledge on how government contracts can serve as a catalyst for growth and provide guidance on the initial steps required to enter this sector.

The event will include a BIPOC Business EXPO featuring members of South Sound BIPOC (SSBIPOC), an effort supported by the Chamber Foundation to provide visibility, education, and marketing opportunities to businesses owned or run by BIPOC community members. Attendees can connect with these exceptional entrepreneurs, discover innovative products and services, and support business growth in our community.

Now in its 61st year, the Thurston County Chamber, and the Olympia Yacht Club, will partner once again 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. 8.

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 traditional salmon bake, provided by Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel and The Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis. Finally, local dignitaries honor the military personnel.

The event hosts on average 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 a send-off which includes representatives from local police, medic, and fire departments and always hanging a large American flag from one of their cranes.

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."

Sponsor tickets for this year’s event are limited and available exclusively to Chamber Members. 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.

Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography.

LTC and Forum Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography.

PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427

SILVER

AAA Washington Cap City

Law, PS Edward Jones –Dirk Farrar, Financial Advisor Express Employment Professionals Olympic Sotheby's International Realty

Michael White Agency –Farmers Insurance

Thank You CommunityInvestors

GOLD Chicago Title Umpqua Bank The Creative Office The Evergreen State College

GHB Insurance, Inc. Great Wolf Lodge

Nicholson & Associates Insurance

Hometown Property Management, Inc. The Olympia Furniture & Sleep Company

TAGS Awards & Specialties

T-Mobile ULINE Shipping Supply Specialists

The Thurston County Chamber sends a BIG "Thank You" to ALL of our investors. With members like you, we are able to provide a sustainable business community in Thurston County as well as foster growth and positive change. Only through your support can we continue to fund important community initiatives and lead the way for business.

PLATINUM

Apella Wealth Cash Oasis/Media Drive

Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, PLLC

Fieldstone Communities Little Creek Casino & Resort Morningside MultiCare Capital Medical Center

Olympia Orthopaedic Associates

Timberland Bank Venables

Pest Management Window Genie

Olympia Federal Savings Olympic Rental & Landlord Services SCJ Alliance South Puget Sound Community College The Rants Group truit

Veteran Security Operations

DIAMOND

FORMA Construction Company

Lucky Eagle Casino and Hotel

PacificSource Health Plans

Port of Olympia Providence Swedish

Puget Sound Energy

Saint Martin's University

South Sound Behavioral Hospital

TwinStar Credit Union Washington Business Bank

Wells Fargo Community Bank