February 2024 VOICE Magazine

D E C E M B E R

T H U R S T O N

Jamel "The Broker" and the Sovereignty Financial Movement From life insurance to retirement planning, debt settlement to tax resolutions–Jamel can help

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C O U N T Y

C H A M B E R

Emily Bergkamp

Visionary Leader in as New General Manager at Intercity Transit

Ballaura Day Spa

In the Right Hands, Massage is More Than Just a Spa Day

150 Years!

Celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Thurston Chamber

GROWING A PROSPEROUS ECONOMY & VIBRANT COMMUNITY

For more information about hiring a Morningside client visit our website…

www.morningsideservices.com

February 2024 THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER VOICE MAGAZINE Visit ThurstonChamber.com and click on the Events Calendar for the latest information regarding Chamber events.

Join our host, Legends Arcade at 109 State Ave NE, Olympia, WA 98501 on Thursday, February 1 at 5:30 p.m. for Thurston Young Professionals (TYP) 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!

TYP is sponsored by Media Drive and KGY Media Group.

On Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at The Norman Worthington Conference Center at Saint Martin's University, 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503, the Thurston Chamber is pleased to announce keynote speaker Daniel Wirth of the American Red Cross – Northwest Region. Daniel will speak on the importance of disaster preparedness and the escalating challenges faced by businesses and communities due to the climate crisis, and give attendees resources to evaluate and improve their preparedness. Find more information on page 18. Thank you to our event sponsor, Balanced Being/Dirk Farrar – Edward Jones and WA-529 Washington College Savings Plans. Register at members.thurstonchamber.com/events.

After Hours

Join our Business After Hours host Bank of the Pacific at 520 union Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98501 on Thursday, February 15 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.

Thank You Sponsors!

thurstonchamber.com

In This Issue...

Ballaura Day Spa p. 5 Massage is more than just a pampering, spa day treatment!

It can alleviate depression, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, digestive disorders and more.

Intercity Transit's New GM Emily Bergkamp p. 7 Emily brings her visionary leadership and Thurston County roots to her new role at Intercity Transit.

Jamel "The Broker" p. 12 Local financial maestro, Jamel Sebbern is introducing Olympia to the Sovereignty Financial Movement.

Welcome New Chamber Members! p. 16 Meet our newest members – reach out and get to know them with this handy directory!

Caught in the Lens p. 22 Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings and see all of the great smiles that make up our membership!

The VOICE prints on FSC® Certified paper.

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.

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magazine

Building Our Community Through Education, Entrepreneurship and Equity

by David Schaffert, President/CEO, Thurston County Chamber

PUBLISHER Thurston County Chamber of Commerce EDITORIAL David Schaffert 360-357-3362 dschaffert@thurstonchamber.com CONTRIBUTORS David Schaffert Natasha Ashenhurst Kathryn Millhorn ADVERTISING Sales & Marketing: Krystal Barkus Elizabeth Bretschneider Ashley Chandler Marianne Judd SUBSCRIPTIONS 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com DESIGN Ben Hawkes Mosaic Marketing Studio COVER Emily Bergkamp, Intercity Transit's New General Manager. Photo by Shanna Paxton Photography.

PRINTING Print NW CONTACT THE CHAMBER 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com thurstonchamber.com

Join us in transforming our communities through education, entrepreneurship, and equity by supporting the Chamber Foundation at A Night on the Town! Immerse yourself in an evening of impact and celebration as we highlight the phenomenal work of our 501(c)3 organization.

Discover how the Foundation is making a difference through eight impactful initiatives:

4. Diversity & Equity Endowment Fund: Supporting BIPOC community members in achieving their educational goals.

1. Leadership Thurston County: Celebrating its 29th graduating 5. SSBIPOC (South Sound Black, Indigenous, People of Color): class and 800 graduates, shaping Ensuring equal opportunities for leaders for a brighter future. success and growth.

2. Thurston Small Business 6. B2Y Connect: Business and Incubator: Empowering BIPOC Education Network, business owners on their 7. Math for Life, and... entrepreneurial journey.

8. Find Your Future: Engaging 3. Thurston Thrives: Closing thousands of youth in skill and health equity gaps and fostering career pathway development a healthier, more resilient through dynamic business community. partnerships.

Your support is crucial to continue this critical work. We invite you to be a part of A Night on the Town, our signature fundraising event on Friday, April 19.

Purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or volunteer to contribute to the positive impact we're creating. Visit thurstonchamber.com/anott to join us on this inspiring journey towards stronger, more vibrant communities. Together, we can make a lasting difference!

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER BUILDING COMMUNITY PROSPERITY SINCE 1874 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. ©2024 VOICE Magazine, Thurston County Chamber.

Finding a Healthier & Happier You at Ballaura Wellness Spa

by Kathryn Millhorn

Massage therapy is more than just a pampering, spa day treat. In the right hands—literally—massage can help combat anxiety, depression, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, headaches, insomnia, nerve pain, sports and soft tissue injuries and TMJ, according to the Mayo Clinic. They explain that massage has both physical and mental benefits and often is used as a tool for stress reduction and pain relief.

Owner and founder Nicki Chryst explains that Ballaura Wellness Spa opened their doors 15 years ago on a foundation of transparency.

Clients can choose from four different aroma blends, five curated music stations, and even add sauna time to their massage experience. “My favorite service is a 45-minute sauna paired with a 90-minute massage,” explains Chryst.

“Having the sauna before the massage allows my nervous system and mind to get into a space where it can really receive the massage and reap the most benefits. It also allows the muscles to become more supple, and the therapist can work the deeper muscles with more ease.”

Locally, downtown Olympia’s Ballaura Wellness Spa offers massage therapy customized to your needs, with more than 20 Ballaura offers discounted and prepaid massage memberships— categories that can be tailored to each client. Extras are offered which include half-price sauna sessions—and visits designed for at no additional charge, and they even have an online search everyone’s personal preferences. “Our goal is to customize each system which matches customers to the ideal massage therapist. guest's experience to fit their needs and for them to walk away with a relaxed nervous system and a body that feels rejuvenated.”

Owner and founder Nicki Chryst explains that Ballaura Wellness Spa opened their doors 15 years ago, in December Chryst sought out the Thurston County Chamber when she 2008. From the start, she and her team focused on first started the business. “It's important for small businesses transparency. “This means that you could receive gua to engage with community resources like the Chamber of sha, cupping, percussion therapy, heat therapy, and Commerce or Economic Development Corporations because aromatherapy at no additional cost,” says Chryst, “most these organizations offer valuable support and networking places upcharge $20 to $50 for these enhancements. We opportunities. They can help a business connect with the recognize how awkward it is for our therapist to have to let local community, gain visibility, and access resources and a guest know on the massage table when they are focused knowledge that might otherwise be difficult to find. This on relaxing that it would cost extra for something that could kind of community involvement is key to building strong, really benefit their health.” supportive relationships and a thriving business environment.” thurstonchamber.com

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When the spa moved to their current location in 2018, they did a grand reopening ribbon cutting with the Chamber as well. Follow Ballaura Wellness Spa on Facebook and Instagram for deals and updates or sign up for their newsletter to receive $15 off your first infrared sauna visit.

Chryst recommends first-timers call or text the spa at 360.539.7726 or email relax@ballaura.com with any questions or to get started. They also offer online scheduling 24 hours a day. They’re launching new services in April 2024, so be on the lookout for exciting news to help your wellness journey.

When you’re achy, stressed, or recovering from illness or injury, it’s easy to simply pop an ibuprofen, down an energy drink, or power through your pain. But these things only mask the real issue, and often come with side effects of their own. Speak to your primary care provider— reimbursement from your insurance provider may be possible—and a licensed massage therapist about adding massage and look forward to a brighter, warmer (if you opt for the sauna too!) future ahead.

EMILY BERGKAMP

Intercity Transit Welcomes Visionary Leader with Deep Roots in Thurston County as New General Manager

by Natasha Ashenhurst Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography

In a resounding unanimous vote on November 15, 2023, the Intercity Transit Authority Board appointed Emily Bergkamp as the official General Manager of the agency. Stepping into her role with passion and purpose, Emily is not just a seasoned professional but a local with a profound connection to Thurston County.

thurstonchamber.com

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“ THEY FEEL LIKE FRIENDS, ALWAYS SO WELCOMING.”

Tiffany Lin & Hung Pham

RED LANTERN ASIAN FUSION, YELM Tiffany Lin & Hung Pham, owners Since opening her Asian fusion restaurant five years ago, Yen Ju Lin (“Tiffany”) and her husband, business partner and chef Hung Pham, have relied on OlyFed’s flexible and friendly business banking services to keep transactions tracked, accounts in order, and life a little easier.

A believer in supportive communities, Tiffany and Hung know OlyFed’s reputation for philanthropy, leadership and integrity as the area’s only local mutual bank. So, when Tiffany’s niece opened her own nail salon, she was quick to recommend OlyFed business banking.

For Red Lantern Asian Fusion Restaurant and OlyFed, it all comes down to providing a welcoming attitude and a satisfying customer experience. It’s why since 1906, OlyFed has been putting real relationships above the bottom line.

OLYFED.COM (360) 754-3400 8 I

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8 LOCAL BRANCHES TO SERVE YOU

Thurston County Chamber VOICE

BANKING THAT’S MUTUAL thurstonchamber.com

Emily talking with Hunter Ellis, a bus driver and on the right talking with Customer Service Supervisor, Russell Gilsdorf.

A resident since 1995, Emily's journey to the helm of Intercity Transit is a narrative woven with dedication to community service and a love for the Pacific Northwest.

Having earned her associate's degree from South Puget Sound Community College and later a Bachelor’s from Saint Martin’s University, Emily has deep roots in the region. Her conscious choice to call Thurston County home reflects her commitment to the community.

Emily, a proud mother of two boys, Isaiah and Zane, balances her professional commitment with a love for nature and family. "Thurston County is my home.

Intercity Transit has allowed me to be a servant to the community," she shares. Beyond her role, she enjoys supporting her sons in their various activities, from high school band to sports.

With an impressive two-decade tenure at Intercity Transit, Emily's journey began as a volunteer, demonstrating her dedication to understanding and addressing the transportation needs of the community.

Her career evolved through various roles, including managing Dial-A-Lift for a decade, showcasing her commitment to enhancing transit services for all.

When Ann Freeman-Manzanares retired, Emily took on the role of Interim General Manager and navigated an extensive search process. "The industry found me.

I knew that once I joined the team, I found my home," thurstonchamber.com

she reflects. Emily's leadership is marked by a deep understanding of the integral role each team member plays in facilitating community mobility.

As Emily takes the helm as General Manager, her vision extends beyond managing transit services; it encompasses a commitment to community well-being and creating a seamless experience for those navigating Thurston County. With a tight-knit team sharing her dedication, the future of Intercity Transit under Emily's leadership promises innovation, inclusivity, equity and a continued focus on serving the diverse needs of the community.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE "Before COVID, our plans for Proposition 1 aimed to reshape the system based on what the community desired. Increased route frequency, span of service, service to northeast Lacey, and a zero-fare pilot were significant steps, but COVID forced a pause. My vision is to honor the community's pre-COVID aspirations. A year from now, we expect to be back to pre-pandemic service levels, be fully staffed and remain focused on excellent customer service. We're gaining traction in our goal to operationalize the remaining elements of our long-range plan," Emily shared.

CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS Addressing challenges, Emily emphasizes the need to remind the community of the diverse services Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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CONFLICT

CRASH COURSE Join us for this 4-hour online training to learn tips to help you handle conflict & get to a resolution.

Improve communication Enhance relationships

Manage conflict Prevent escalation

Saturday March 16th 9:00AM - 1:00PM (360) 956-1155 (ext. 126) MediateThurston.org

Trainingteam@mediatethurston.org

Welcome Home to Joyful & Vibrant Living!

At Fieldstone, every day is an opportunity for joy - whether relaxing with friends, working out in the exercise studio, or taking a stroll through the beautiful grounds.

Call today for a tour!

Independent & Assisted Living 810 Fieldstone Drive SW, Olympia WA, 98502 (360) 915 - 5764

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Emily talks with Joy Gerchak, Intercity Transit's Customer Service Manager.

Intercity Transit provides. "We're more than the buses and paratransit vehicles you see on the street; we're a lifeline for frontline workers, workforce development, youth riders, and an employer of choice. A reliable and high-quality transit system is a hallmark of a successful community. I invite our community members to take another look at our services and see how transit can fit into their life. We remain zero-fare and are adding service regularly. Sustainability is also a cornerstone of our organization and a transition plan for zero emissions is underway."

LEADERSHIP STYLE Emily embraces a servant leadership style, emphasizing community needs. "Listening to end-users and frontline staff is vital. I believe in the inverted triangle, where front-line insights shape our decisions. Operating with integrity, inclusivity, and fun, we celebrate hard work, ensuring everyone feels seen and welcomed," she articulates.

MISCONCEPTIONS CLARIFIED Dispelling misconceptions, Emily addresses safety concerns and emphasizes the quality of their zero-fare thurstonchamber.com

service. "Our buses are safe, clean, and offer excellent customer service. We meet with employers, schools, local jurisdictions and community organizations, providing transit solutions for everyone in our community. We're evolving, ensuring accessibility," she asserts.

COLLABORATION WITH STAKEHOLDERS Collaborating with stakeholders, Emily highlights local partnerships in agency programs like Walk and Roll, fostering active transportation awareness. "Community service partnerships, especially with Thurston County Emergency Management, ensure our role in evacuations and temporary shelters during crises," Emily adds, highlighting a commitment to community engagement.

As Emily takes the wheel at Intercity Transit, her vision transcends the ordinary, promising a future where innovation, inclusivity, equity and community needs steer the course of public transit in Thurston County.

"We're all transit nerds here. I rode the bus to work today, and I ride a couple of times a week. It is my preferred way to get to work," she said, infusing a fun and relatable touch to her commitment to the community she serves.

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Jamel "The Broker" Sebbern Introduces Olympia to the Sovereignty Financial Movement

by Kathryn Millhorn

Unlocking the secrets to financial literacy is crucial, yet studies reveal that fewer than 60% of adults possess the necessary skills to make informed decisions about their money. The consequences are staggering, costing the average American over $1,800 annually. This financial knowledge gap hits our wallets and keeps many of us tossing and turning through sleepless nights, anxiously counting every dollar.

retirement, and even preparing for unexpected events like a rainy day or the occasional pandemic. With a trusted partner by your side, navigating the complexities of finance becomes not just manageable, but a journey of empowerment and financial success.

Meet the local financial maestro, none other than Jamel Sebbern, affectionately known as Jamel the Broker. His mission? To be your guiding light, offering not just advice but a wealth of experienced knowledge. Jamel is not just a broker; he's the force behind the Sovereignty Financial Movement, bringing Too often, the struggle with financial decisions stems from a fresh perspective to his clients. From life insurance to a fundamental lack of guidance and training. Imagine retirement planning, debt settlement, tax resolutions, having a dedicated ally in your corner, transforming the business owner solutions, and crafting college savings way you approach insurance, banking, financial planning, plans—Jamel doesn't just assist, he transforms.

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A native of Staten Island, New York, Sebbern says his family moved west during COVID-19 to avoid the East Coast's "ridiculous housing market" and build his new business and their legacy in our community. As a veteran, he sought new ways to give back.

"After 21 years of military service," he explains, "I still wanted to serve my country in a way that was impactful, and I believe there is nothing more impactful than helping a family create a legacy and build generational wealth as well as putting money back into a community."

Sebbern says that lately, his clients have been choosing to focus on "life insurance and retirement, having peace of mind, and a financial future for their kids. Annuities are also a big thing for retirement and protecting people's money. Many people lost money in their 401k, and I have been able to protect their life savings so they can enjoy retirement instead of having to work past 65 because savings were lost."

Sebbern suggests starting with a life insurance policy.

He explains that it is "the foundation of financial planning because you have something in place to protect your family, home, business, and assets when you cannot work or are no longer around. Retirement-wise, it's important to have something that's not only life insurance but savings where your money is safely protected from market loss and tax-free when you need it."

In the dynamic world of business, networking is the heartbeat, and Jamel Sebbern's journey intertwined with the Thurston County Chamber at a pivotal event.

The echoes of those initial connections still resonate with him, a testament to the power of networking. Jamel enthusiastically commends the Thurston County Small Business Incubator Program, hailing it as an absolute game-changer for budding entrepreneurs. He said the Incubator is, "an awesome program for helping young startup businesses get off the ground. As a new business owner, you often don't know where to go or what resources are out there and are trying to find answers. But being part of the Chamber, many answers and guesswork are done because they already have the blueprint and resources to set you up for success and grant opportunities." thurstonchamber.com

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Creating economic opportunities and building community for all of Thurston County through responsible resource use.

Your Port

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Sebbern's goals are lofty; he hopes to grow his business with 25 new licensed agents, settle into a bigger office space, and get closer to God. If financial uncertainty keeps you awake at night, it's time to make a call that could change your life. Dial up Sebbern at 347.695.7211 today. Why? Because consultations are not just free; they're a beacon of hope. Jamel goes beyond the usual, meeting you not just where you are geographically, but also where you stand financially.

"I can come to you," he says, "and prefer that face-to-face interaction. I also provide a free Financial Life Strategy.

Not only do I insure you, I will also insure your money."

We've all heard the phrase that knowledge is power. But when it comes to our hard-earned money, knowledge is a roof over your head, a fridge full of snacks, warm coats in winter, and a reliable car for taking the kids to school.

And that's worth the investment.

thurstonchamber.com

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Welcome New Members!

360 Painting of Olympia 866-99-PAINT 360painting.com/olympia Painting

DaBella 360-763-4087 dabella.us Roofing

Miss Priss Lash + Brow 360-915-7584 missprisslashandbrow.com Beauty & Skin Care

AAA Septic LLC 360-427-6110 aaasepticshelton.com Plumbing & Septic

Durney Insurance, Inc. 360-532-0905 durney.com Finance & Insurance

Movement Mortgage 360-280-1467 movement.com Mortgage Companies

Advanced Operational Concepts adopcon.com Consultants - Security

Finnriver Farm & Cidery, Tumwater Taproom 360-301-6249 American Family Insurance - Fama-Silver finnriver.com/tumwater 360-469-7005 Contractors amfam.com/agents/washington/ Greco General Contracting tumwater/katherine-fama 253-225-8626 Finance & Insurance facebook.com/grecogeneralcontracting Anne Gallagher Consulting Contractors 360-451-0921 annegconsulting.com Green State Insulation Consultants - Business & Vocational 360-259-1175 greenstateinsulation.com ArgoCTS Repair & Remodel 253-292-3329 argocts.com Managed IT Services

Greene Commercial 360-528-4167 greenecommercial.com Commercial Real Estate

Blade Realty 360-539-5166 bladerealtyllc.com Real Estate Services C.A.R.E Wellness Center & Services 253-478-0126 carewellnesscenter.org Non-Profit Organizations & Associations Capital Business Machines, Inc. 360-491-6000 cbm-wa.com Office Equipment - Copiers & Supplies

Greene Property Management 360-528-4166 greenrentals.com Property Management Innovations Human Trafficking Collaborative 559-500-8708 innovationshtc.org Family, Community & Civic Organizations

Navy Federal Credit Union 888-842-6328 navyfederal.org/branches-atms/ locations/usa/wa/lacey/lcy.html Credit Unions Olympia Family Theater 360-570-1638 olyft.org Performing Arts Olympia School of Advanced Skincare 360-915-7584 missprisslashandbrow.com Education O-UT - Overhaul (through) Unrelenting Transformation Program 206-601-1823 linkedin.com/in/v-ginny-burton5816a0b9 Consultants Pacific Northwest Esthetics & Wellness 360-388-8007 pnwskin.com Day Spas PeacefulWork 360-388-8231 peacefulwork.org Alternative Healing

Caring Transitions Olympia 360-359-7047 CaringTransitionsOlympia.com Senior Citizen Services

Johnson Medicare Solutions 360-790-6589 JohnsonMedicareSolutions.com Insurance

CertaPro Painters of Olympia 360-822-9975 certapro.com/olympia Painting

Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores, Inc. Prestige Senior Living Rosemont 405-302-6634 360-458-1800 loves.com Convenience Store Senior Living

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Pirates Poke & Sip instagram.com/pirates.poke.sip Restaurants

thurstonchamber.com

Join Us in Making History

Share Your Memories

Become a Prosperity Partner

Chamber Time Capsule

Throughout 2024, the Chamber will celebrate its history by paying tribute to the leaders, businesses, organizations, and communities whose support and partnerships have been vital to the Chamber’s success and vision of building prosperity.

Support the Chamber’s mission and take advantage of comprehensive, multi-month, sponsorship packages that reflect your company’s role in creating a vibrant community.

Contact Krystal Barkus at kbarkus@thurstonchamber.com

Save the Dates

Help us compile the history of the Chamber by sharing your memories and photos. Materials may be used to support historical timeline, marketing collateral or events during 2024.

Contact Jessica Houchin at JHouchin@thurstonchamber.com

Get ready for a journey through time as we unveil fascinating historical tidbits and insider information about the Chamber's rich legacy throughout the year. Join us as we delve deeper into the past and explore the roots of our organization!

May 8, 2024 Annual Meeting

July 11, 2024 150th Anniversary Celebration

PUR a FOG 360-234-4364 purafog.com Mold Inspection & Removal

Starr Classy Cleaning Services LLC 209-489-1225 facebook.com/Starrccllc Cleaners - Commercial

Quixote Communities 253-327-0158 quixotecommunities.org Family, Community & Civic Organizations

Stifel 360-918-7900 stifel.com/branch/wa/olympia Finance & Insurance

Sub-Zero Freeze Dried Candy Quixote Village 564-464-9964 360-556-6042 subzerofreezedriedcandy.com/ quixotecommunities.org Ice Cream & Desserts Family, Community & Civic Organizations Ted's Voice Academy Sand to Sound Consulting 253-414-2267 941-549-2088 tedsvoiceacademy.com Education linkedin.com/in/christopher-pettit725a3422 The Flower & Vine Consultants - Agriculture, Fishing & theflowerandvine.com Forestry Boutique & Specialty Shopping Sole & Style 360-995-7120 sole-and-style.com Shoes thurstonchamber.com

T-Mobile - Capital Mall 360-753-2190 t-mobile.com Telecommunications

Transworld Business Advisors tworld.com/locations/gigharborolympia Business Broker WA 529 - Washington College Savings Plan 360-753-7803 529.wa.gov Government, Education & Individuals WellSpring Accounts 360-878-6830 apkeeping.com Accountants Yards Done Right LLC 360-878-5633 yardsdoneright.com Landscaping Ziply Fiber 425-299-6757 ziplyfiber.com Internet Providers

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Daniel Wirth of the American Red Cross – Northwest Region Talks Disaster Preparedness at Thurston Chamber Forum The Thurston County Chamber is honored to announce Daniel Wirth, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northwest Region’s South Puget Sound and Olympics Chapter, as the keynote speaker for its February Forum on February 14, 2024, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Norman Worthington Center at Saint Martin's University. Wirth will address the pressing issue of disaster preparedness and its significance to the community. The presentation will shed light on the escalating challenges faced by businesses and communities due to the climate crisis.

KEY STATISTICS •

In the last 10 years, the number of billiondollar disasters has increased by 70%.

•

More than 8.5 million people have been forced from their homes in the past decade.

•

Relief operations for major disasters have nearly doubled in the last ten years.

Wirth will also introduce the Ready Rating Program, a free service in partnership with the Canadian Red Cross. This program empowers businesses, schools, and organizations to enhance their preparedness for disasters and emergencies.

Ready Rating members gain access to unique tools, resources, and information, allowing them to evaluate and improve their ability to withstand disasters, maintain operations, and protect lives and property.

Whether organizations are taking their first steps or already have a comprehensive emergency management program, the Ready Rating Program is a valuable resource to achieve a higher level of preparedness.

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February 14, 2024, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Norman Worthington Center, Saint Martin's University Register here: members.thurstonchamber.com/events/ Details/february-chamber-forum-999494 thurstonchamber.com

B U I L D I N G S T R O N G E R C O M M U N I T I E S T H R O U G H E D U C AT I O N , E N T R E P R E N E U R S H I P A N D E Q U I T Y A BENEFIT FOR THE

2024

April 19

C O C K TA I L S • D I N N E R • A U C T I O N • A F T E R PA R T Y

Join the Thurston County Chamber Foundation for A Night on the Town in Olympia! This annual fundraiser brings together community leaders to raise funds for Foundation programs ...and to party!

We are excited to welcome back Rockaroake this year! Sing your favorite hits with a live band behind you!

Skookum Creek Events Center

91 WA-108, SHELTON, WA 98584

Get your tickets today at

PRESENTING SPONSOR

THURSTONCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS

FREE Construction Bootcamp Training Program through the Olympia Career Hub Are you a resident of Olympia interested in a construction career? Do you want to receive free training and receive your necessary certifications? Do you want a living-wage job?

Thanks to funding provided by the City of Olympia, the Olympia Career Hub has spots available in the Olympia Career Hub’s Construction Bootcamp.

• Training starts in February 2024 at the Olympia Armory.

• Training is open to all experience levels.

• Training is free to Olympia residents and members of the Squaxin Island Tribe.

• This is a chance to advance your skills and earn industry-recognized certifications.

This program is multi-week. By attending full-time, participants will earn certification in OSHA-10 safety standards, flagging, and forklift operating. At the end of the session, students will attend a hiring event to connect with employers. This free training will lead to living-wage jobs!

Register at thurstonchamber.com/programs/olympia-career-hub.

Scan the QR code to learn more!

thurstonchamber.com

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2024 Distinguished Leader Awards

Congratulations to 2024 Honorees: Doug Mah, Boys & Girls Club of Thurston County, and the late Dr. Angela Bowen Twenty-two years of recognizing leaders who demonstrate outstanding initiative, inspire others, and significantly impact our community and beyond.

The Thurston Chamber Foundation is pleased to unveil the stellar triumvirate of the 2024 Distinguished Leaders Awardees. This year's honorees are more than names; they are the architects of change, the catalysts of inspiration, and the unsung heroes who have left an

indelible mark on our community.

The 22nd annual Distinguished Leaders Awards celebration will take place on Tuesday, March 13, at Saint Martin's Norman Worthington Center. The evening begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m., dinner, and the program at 6:30 p.m. Learn more and get your tickets at ThurstonChamber.com/Events.

When: March 13, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Saint Martin's Norman Worthington Center, 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503

Thurston Green

Become a Thurston Green Business!

Apply Today!

Visit ThurstonGreenBusiness.com to apply.

Free to apply. Any business located in Thurston County may apply and only need to qualify in one category to become a Thurston Green Business.

Applications Open January 2 – February 29, 2024 20 I

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Thurston Chamber Foundation Launches Find Your Future 2024 Career EXPO for Students, Families, and Adults of All Ages

A DAY OF CAREER EXPLORATION

Saturday, March 16, 2024, 10:00AM - 2:00PM The Thurston Chamber Foundation is excited to unveil Find Your Future 2024, a groundbreaking community career exploration event designed to shatter obstacles, eliminate barriers, and challenge stigmas associated with employment. Geared toward students and adults of all ages, this event aims to open doors to new career possibilities.

Discover Your Path to Success This FREE, one-day expo-style event invites students and families to embark on a journey towards a fulfilling career. Happening on March 16, 2024, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the New Market Skills Center (7299 New Market St SW, Tumwater, WA 98501), Find Your Future promises a unique experience.

What to Expect Inspiration: Gain insights into future careers and explore diverse opportunities.

Face-to-Face Connections: Meet employers in a relaxed setting to build valuable connections.

Tools and Resources: Acquire the essential tools for navigating training and education paths.

Experience a Complete Sensory Exploration Featuring specialized equipment, scenarios, and training materials, visitors will immerse themselves in a sensory journey, discovering occupations they may not have known existed or thought attainable.

Highlighted Sectors Learn from educators, businesses, and graduates in Healthcare, Food Production, IT, Hospitality, Manufacturing, Wood and Forest Products, and more!

Supported by Collaborative Partnerships Find Your Future is a Thurston County Chamber Foundation Program, in partnership with Career Connect Washington, North Thurston Public Schools, Olympia School District, Rainier School District, Rochester School District, Tenino School District, Tumwater School District, and Yelm Community Schools, along with the New Market Skills Center.

Enhanced Experience Visitors can attend optional breakout sessions, enjoy food available for purchase, and explore at their own pace. Register today to secure your spot!

Event Details Date & Time: March 16, 2024, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Location: New Market Skills Center, 7299 New Market St SW, Tumwater, WA 98501 Registration & Information: thurstonchamber.com/chamber-foundation/find-your-future thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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Caught in the Lens

Keep up with the Thurston Chamber happenings – ribbon cuttings and the networking events. Find more at the Chamber's Facebook page – fb.com/thurstoncountychamber.

Wells Fargo Community Bank

Washington Business Bank

TwinStar Credit Union

Saint Martin's University

Puget Sound Energy

Providence Swedish

Port of Olympia

PacificSource Health Plans

ULINE Shipping Supply Specialists

T-Mobile

TAGS Awards & Specialties

Nicholson & Associates Insurance

Michael White Agency – Farmers Insurance

Olympic Sotheby's International Realty

Express Employment Professionals

Edward Jones – Dirk Farrar, Financial Advisor

Cap City Law, PS

AAA Washington Chicago Title Umpqua Bank The Creative Office The Evergreen State College GHB Insurance, Inc. Great Wolf Lodge Hometown Property Management, Inc. The Olympia Furniture & Sleep Company Olympia Orthopaedic Associates Three Girls Media Timberland Bank Venables Pest Management Window Genie

Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, PLLC Fieldstone Communities Little Creek Casino & Resort Morningside MultiCare Capital Medical Center Olympia Federal Savings Olympic Rental & Landlord Services SCJ Alliance South Puget Sound Community College Swire Coca-Cola The Rants Group truit Veteran Security Operations

FORMA Construction Company

Lucky Eagle Casino and Hotel

SILVER

GOLD

PLATINUM

DIAMOND

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.

Thank You Community Investors

PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427