May 2024 VOICE Magazine

The Tastiest Ice Cream Comes from Humble Cows

Get to Know Thurston County's New Manager, Leonard Hernandez

The OlyFed Business Banking

Ti any Lin & Hung Pham Red Lantern Asian Fusion, Yelm

May 2024

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER VOICE MAGAZINE

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

After Hours

Annual Meeting 2024

Join our host, 1889 Prime Steakhouse at 406 5th Ave SW, Olympia, WA 98501 on Thursday, May 2 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! Thurston Young Professionals is sponsored by KGY Media Group.

Join our Business After Hours host Capital Injury Law, PS at 4444 Lacey Boulevard SE, Suite A, Lacey, WA 98503 on Thursday, May 16 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

On Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 11:30 a.m., at Marcus Pavilion at Saint Martin's University, 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503, the Thurston Chamber will host its 2024 Annual Meeting, and will celebrate 150 years of shaping the community. Through storytelling and special guest appearances, we'll take a look at the pivotal role the Chamber has played in our community since its inception in 1874. Don't miss this historic opportunity! Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Port of Olympia. Register at members.thurstonchamber.com/events.

Thank You Sponsors!

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.

Amcor, Global Leader in Plastics, in Tumwater p. 5

Amcor's Tumwater plant manufactures plastic bottles and pre-forms using resin in pelletized form, and serves the PNW and Western Canada.

Meet the New Thurston County Manager p. 11

Leonard Hernandez steps into Thurston County as its new manager, bringing a wealth of experience from his time in sunny San Bernardino, California.

The Best Ice Cream Comes from Humble Cows p. 14 Owner Meegan Cronk details the expansion of her local, small batch, artisan ice cream business, Humble Cow.

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!

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-Franco

Elizabeth Bretschneider

Ashley Chandler

SUBSCRIPTIONS

360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com

DESIGN

Ben Hawkes Mosaic Marketing Studio

COVER

Meegan Cronk of Humble Cow Ice Cream. 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

150 Years of Shaping Community

by David Schaffert, President/CEO, Thurston County Chamber

Mark your calendars because a momentous occasion is just around the corner! We extend a heartfelt invitation to you, our community members, business leaders, and honored guests to join us for our 2024 Annual Meeting. This year, we're commemorating a truly remarkable milestone –the Chamber's 150th anniversary!

Date: Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Location: Marcus Pavilion at Saint Martin's University, 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey

We're celebrating "150 Years of Shaping Community." This special gathering will kick off with an inspiring review of our achievements and vision for the future, led by Chamber leadership. You'll gain firsthand insights into the initiatives driving growth, prosperity, and the strategic direction of our region.

Through storytelling and special guest appearances, we'll take a look at the pivotal role the Chamber has played in shaping our community since its inception in 1874.

Presented by our sponsor, the Port of Olympia, this event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of resilience, innovation, and community spirit. So don't miss this historic opportunity to be a part of something truly extraordinary!

To secure your spot at this landmark event, register at thurstonchamber.com.

We can't wait to see you there as we raise a toast to 150 years of excellence and look forward to an even brighter future together!

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.

Unveiling the Heart of Manufacturing: Amcor's Tumwater Facility

by Natasha Ashenhurst • Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography

BUSINESS PROFILE

Annual Sales: $14.7 billion Segment Breakdown: 76% flexible plastic, 24% rigid plastic

Global Reach: 41,000 employees across 41 countries and 218 sites, with 49% of sales in North America.

Tumwater Plant Led by: John Olnick Rigid Packaging: Aims to be the leading global packaging company.

In 1992, a consortium of five local fillers, spurred by the desire for greater control over bottle production costs, joined forces to create a rigid plastic manufacturing facility in Tumwater, Washington, named CNC, so they would have more control over the cost of bottles. They sold it to Amcor in 2001.

Amcor, as a global leader in plastic container manufacturing, offers a diverse range of products and solutions.

Amcor’s Rigid Packaging business is one of the world’s largest suppliers of plastic containers and closures and aspires to be the leading global packaging company.

Leading the Tumwater team is John Olnick, Plant Manager, who brings over 3 ½ years of

experience to the role. With a background in accounting and a keen understanding of operations, John oversees a strong management team within the Tumwater facility. Together, they are committed to driving success and innovation in every aspect of the operation.

“Our primary market for bottle sales spans the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada, stretching from Tumwater through Seattle and up to Vancouver, Canada,” said Olnick.

Precision in Production: Focused on Quality and Innovation

"Amcor Tumwater is 100% focused on manufacturing plastic bottles and plastic pre-forms using resin which is in the pelletized form," explains Lee Lord, Supply Chain Manager. “Using large capacity Blow Mold & Injection Mold machinery, precision is paramount. From dealing with hot plastic to blowing it with hot pressure air, every step is meticulously executed,” he shared.

Nurturing a Dedicated Workforce: Safety and Growth at the Core

The Tumwater facility boasts a dedicated workforce comprising 100 full-time permanent employees, prioritizing their safety and professional development.

“At our facility, we cultivate a culture of continuous improvement, offering four levels of operator positions to help our employees grow and excel. We operate as a close-knit family, striving to produce the best possible bottles while maintaining a strong local presence,” said Olnick.

Offering pathways for growth and advancement, including training programs for both permanent and temporary workers, fosters a sense of belonging and quality throughout operations, he explained.

Thriving Amidst Challenges: Adapting and Succeeding

Despite the hurdles posed by COVID-19, the facility has successfully reduced turnover from 30% to 10%. One pivotal initiative has been the introduction of a permanent trainer role, elevating employee satisfaction and retention.

“By investing in training and career development, we empower our team members to thrive within our organization,” said Olnick.

A Commitment to Sustainability: Leading the Charge

As part of their commitment to community engagement, they've actively participated in various local initiatives. For instance, they organized a backpack drive to support the Little Red Schoolhouse and conducted a cleanup at Squaxin Park.

Pioneering Zero Plastic to Landfill: Setting the Bar Higher

Both Amcor global and the Tumwater facility are dedicated to championing sustainable practices in the plastics industry. Through initiatives like using Post Consumer Recycled (PCR) resins and reducing resin content in preforms, they strive to minimize the environmental impact while meeting customer needs.

“Last year, we successfully reduced the plastic content of a bottle by 10% in collaboration with a customer, demonstrating our dedication to sustainability,” explained Olnick.

“Aligned with our Zero Plastic to Landfill commitment, we ensure that nothing we produce ends up in landfills,” explained Lord. “Every pellet is meticulously processed and reused, often surpassing state mandates for post-consumer recycled content. With flexibility in accommodating customer preferences, we're driving sustainability forward, one bottle at a time.”

Furthermore, customers have the option to specify the amount of post-consumer plastic they prefer in their products, reflecting flexibility and commitment to meeting their sustainability goals.

Shaping a Sustainable Future: Together

“Our product range, spanning from beverages to specialty containers, reflects our dedication to reducing our plastic footprint,” said Olnick. “By continually striving for excellence and sustainability, we not only drive success in our operations but also pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for our business and the planet.”

From the Golden State to the Evergreen State Meet Thurston County's New Manager, Leonard Hernandez

by Natasha Ashenhurst • Photos by Shanna Paxton Photography

Leonard Hernandez steps into Thurston County as its new Manager, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for transformative leadership. From the sun-kissed landscapes of San Bernardino, California, to the lush greenery of Washington, he's traded his surfboard for hiking boots and is ready to embark on a new adventure. With a brood of five and an affinity for the outdoors, Hernandez's enthusiasm for exploring Thurston County's natural beauty is palpable.

Hernandez's journey to this pivotal role is marked by a string of accomplishments. Rising from a library clerk to CEO-equivalent in San Bernardino County, he's earned a reputation as a problem solver and a catalyst for change.

His tenure saw the revival of struggling institutions and the attraction of major businesses, driving economic growth and garnering national attention.

"When I was tasked with revitalizing Regional Parks, the largest in the nation, I saw an opportunity to bring economic growth to our outdoor spaces," he recounts. "Partnering with key businesses like Spartan Races and Top Golf, we injected life into our local economy, transforming our parks into vibrant hubs of activity."

As he settles into his new role, Hernandez's focus remains steadfast: to understand the dynamics of Thurston County, forge strong partnerships with local businesses, and chart a course for collective success. "I'm struck by the dedication of our staff and the passion of our commissioners," he reflects. "But there's much work to be done. My priority is to build internal leadership and foster collaboration with community leaders."

Hernandez views collaboration as the linchpin of economic development. "Rather than adopting a siloed approach, I believe in the power of partnerships," he emphasizes. "By fostering an ecosystem where government and businesses are allies, we can ensure that Thurston County thrives."

As Thurston County's newest steward, Hernandez's vision is clear: to lead with integrity, harnessing the collective energy of the community to drive progress and prosperity. With sleeves rolled up and a smile on his face, he's poised to make a lasting impact on the future of Thurston County.

"I believe in the power of partnerships... By fostering an ecosystem where government and businesses are allies, we can ensure that Thurston County thrives."

– Leonard Hernandez

The Tastiest Ice Cream Comes from Humble Cows

by Kathryn Millhorn

Nothing is more iconic than the neighborhood ice cream shop. American ice cream makers serve up nearly 1.5 billion gallons of the sweet treat annually and few things bring people together like their favorite scoop, sip, slurp, or sundae.

Locally, Humble Cow Ice Cream opened its doors in 2022 thanks to owner and small batch ice cream artisan Meegan Cronk. Her shop’s Olympia location—a gorgeous, walkable, neighborhood hub—was selected with as much care as she chooses ingredients, flavors, and toppings.

Now, in just two short years, Humble

Cow completes the regional trifecta. They’re expanding to a second storefront in Lacey’s Hawks Prairie as well as adding a 3,600 square foot kitchen and food storage facility in Tumwater.

Humble Cow’s original location at 4528 Maple Lane SE as well as their upcoming Hogum Bay Town Center spot are open seven days a week.

Cronk is excited for the opportunity to employ more staff, especially young people without previous work experience, and create a second “comfortable inviting space for people to gather and connect over a scoop of homemade, delicious ice cream. This second location allows us to bring that experience to even more people and become connected to a different corner of our community.”

Don’t worry, the fun and festivities at their Olympia store are still going strong. “We opened as a neighborhood ice cream shop and quickly adjusted to accommodate the great response,” says Cronk. “Since the day we opened, our neighborhood supported us, cheered us on, and been extremely loyal customers. We do a variety of events during the year to bring the community together, for example an annual Ice Cream for Breakfast event in February, and we’re always blown away by the overwhelming response. When we open in Hawks Prairie, we look forward to embracing and supporting a new corner of the community and creating another welcoming place for our new neighbors.”

The Tumwater addition won’t host customers, but local ice cream fans will definitely appreciate it from afar. Going from their existing 200 square foot kitchen to the new 3,600 square foot space means plenty of fresh products for starters. It also allows Cronk “to be more purposeful with our purchasing and focus on our partnerships like sourcing and storing high quality Washington-grown and -made ingredients. The new kitchen also allows us to expand our current product offerings.”

These offerings include delicious seasonal flavors, grab-n-go items like ice cream cakes, pies, and sandwiches, and house made components. For example, the ice cream sandwiches use freshly baked homemade cookies and their cold brew floats and coffee milkshakes feature Ember Goods concentrated coffee (which is traded for ice cream during the summer months when Ember Goods creates creamy, decadent affogatos). Waffle cones are also made in-house as are non-dairy products and ice cream flights of six mini scoops served in an egg carton.

Mouth watering yet? If so, Humble Cow caters events, team activities, and parties in a variety of ways. You can order to-go or delivery or ask about renting their adorable ice cream cart for weddings, graduations, corporate get-togethers, family reunions, block parties, or your very own scoop-apalooza.

More than just a gathering place, Humble Cow supports local school and community groups, hosts fundraising nights, and sponsors high school sports teams. They recently purchased 308 boxes of Girls Scout cookies from a local troupe and used them in seasonal flavors like Peanut Butter Tagalong, Chunky Chocolate Mint, Toasted Coconut Samoa, and Jammy Shortbread.

Merchandise and products sold in their stores are sourced locally with a focus on quality materials and ingredients. Cronk promises to continue her sustainable practices with sustainable cups and spoons, and they even sell refillable pint containers which customers can return for discounted refills.

Follow Humble Cow Ice Cream on Facebook and Instagram for new flavors, upcoming events, and drool-worthy photos. To learn more about custom orders, visit www.HumbleCowIceCream.com or call 360.915.8019 today. Then pile everyone into the car for a trip down memory lane to the ice cream parlor because there’s always room for ice cream.

Thank You CommunityInvestors