December 2018 VOICE Magazine

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

DECEMBER 2018

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Thrift home ownership community INTEL ENGINEER TURNS GALLERY Entrepreneur Meet State of the Arts Gallery & Gift's New Owner

Olympia Federal Savings and #BUYLOCAL Banking

give local Community Foundations are Changing How We Give

B U I L D I N G C OMMU N IT Y PR O S PE R IT Y F O R OV E R 1 4 0 Y E A R S

PUBLISHER Thurston County

Attentiveness to Military Installation is Critical to Our Regional Economy

By David Schaffert, Thurston Chamber President/CEO

Chamber of Commerce

EDITORIAL Editor: David Schaffert Phone: (360) 357-3362 Email: dschaffert@thurstonchamber.com

CONTRIBUTORS David Schaffert Doug Mah Doria Maselli Rebekah Finn

The South Sound Military & Communities

$9 billion in economic impact does not just

Partnership (SSMCP) works to address issues

appear overnight, but it could disappear.

that affect military and civilian communities

Realignment of military priorities/operation

around Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM)

and the ever-increasing competitive

and to foster outcomes that are mutually

nature of other communities to maintain

beneficial for the South Sound region.

or expand military facilities could have impacts on JBLM.

Natasha Ashenhurst Heather Harris

Last month, I attended SSMCP’s annual

ADVERTISING

Elected Officials Council to hear briefings

We will have to be steadfast in our

on legislative policy efforts in support of

commitment to JBLM, its service members

JBLM and its service members. As a member

and their families. Lacey’s Veteran’s Hub,

of SSMCP, the Chamber works to support

workforce development efforts such as

their efforts and ensure that our region is

Camo2Commerce, education opportunities

supportive of JBLM and the positive impacts

with Saint Martin’s University and Thurston

to our region’s economy.

Chamber-led Shared Legislative package

Sales and Marketing: Krystal Barkus Blake Knoblauch Marny Bright Phone: (360) 357-3362 Email: info@thurstonchamber.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS Phone: (360) 357-3362 Email: info@thurstonchamber.com

DESIGN Mosaic Marketing Studio

COVER ART Oly Fed's headquarters was built in 1967 and features unique hand-

that includes I-5 studies to review mid and According to the recently released JBLM

long-term actions, are a few examples of

Regional Economic Impact Analysis, authored

our region’s recent efforts to support JBLM.

by the University of Washington Tacoma’s Center for Business Analytics, the economic

Advocating, nurturing and supporting one

a symbol of homeownership. From

impact of JBLM, Washington’s third-largest

of Washington State’s largest employers and

left to right, Sandy Dibernardo, Lori

employer, is between $8.3 and $9.2 billion.

its $9 billion in economic impact is a critical

The study focused on communities located

part of the overall economic strategy for

in Pierce and Thurston counties and the

our region.

carved wood doors, dipicting keys as

Drummond and Ryan Betz.

Photo by Heather Harris of Elements Photography

PRINTING

Nisqually Indian tribal lands.

Print NW

CONTACT THE CHAMBER PO Box 1427 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 Phone: (360) 357-3362 Email: info@thurstonchamber.com Website: thurstonchamber.com

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.

THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY INVESTORS DIAMOND INVESTORS: America's Credit Union - Lacey Capital Medical Center FORMA Construction Company Little Creek Casino & Resort Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel Port of Olympia Saint Martin's University TwinStar Credit Union Washington Business Bank

PLATINUM INVESTORS Greene Realty Group Heritage Bank - Olympia

L & E Bottling Company, Inc. Mills & Mills Funeral Home Morningside Olympia Federal Savings Olympia Orthopaedic Associates Phillips Burgess, PLLC Providence St. Peter Hospital Puget Sound Energy South Puget Sound Community College

GOLD INVESTORS American Workforce Group C.P.C. Landscape, LLC Cabinets by Trivonna Charter College Community Youth Services Creative Office

Elite Cleaning of Washington, Inc. GHB Insurance, Inc. Grays Harbor Fair & Tourism Great Wolf Lodge Hometown Property Management, Inc. Hooper Financial Services Loanstar Home Lending Nisqually Red Wind Casino Olympia Furniture Company Pardiman Productions Radia, Inc., PS SCJ Alliance The Rants Group Venables Pest Management Wells Fargo Community Bank

EXPERIENCE THE CAPITAL ADVANTAGE

World-Class Surgical Care in West Olympia capitalmedical.com

Capital Medical Center is partly owned by some of the physicians who serve our patients.

©2018 BCI

December 2018

Every month, the Thurston County Chamber offers several networking events, forums and workshops to the community.

Here are some highlights you won't want to miss.

Morning Mixxer at Gundersen Dental Please join our host, Gundersen Dental, on Tuesday, December 4 at 7:30 a.m. for the Thurston Chamber’s Morning Mixxer. Gundersen Dental will provide breakfast treats, our sponsor L&E Bottling will host the coffee bar and you

CONTENT & CALENDAR In This Issue...

7 Banking Local at Oly Fed

can enjoy a morning of networking. Morning Mixxer is free to attend.

Oly Fed's value-driven platform

Where: Gundersen Dental, 115 Cleveland Ave SE, Tumwater, WA 98502.

of thrift, home ownership and

Thurston Young Professionals After Hours

community involvement leads

Join Thurston Young Professionals on Thursday, December 6 at 5:30 p.m. at Hotel RL Olympia. Enjoy a selection of beverages and snacks, meet with other Young Professionals (21-35 year olds) and expand your network.

Where: Hotel RL Olympia, 2300 Evergreen Park Dr SW, Olympia, WA 98502.

2018 Boss of the Year Honoree Recognition The Thurston County Chamber is proud to announce the 9th annual Boss of the Year honorees at the December Forum. The recognition event will take place on Wednesday, December 12, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and includes a lunch buffet.

To make a reservation to attend, register online at thurstonchamber.com.

to organic & consistent growth.

11 Give Local Campaign The Community Foundation of South Puget Sound's integral role in inspiring local philanthropy.

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When: Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Buffet-style lunch begins at 11:45 a.m.

State of the Art

Program begins at 12:00 p.m. Where: Hotel RL Olympia, 2300 Evergreen Park

New owner, Jeff Barrett, details

Drive SW, Olympia, WA 98502. What: Forum includes lunch. $35 for general

his fresh vision for the historic

admission, $25 for prepaid Chamber members, $30 for members at the door.

Business After Hours at Olympia Furniture Co.

State of the Arts Gallery.

Join the Thurston County Chamber on Thursday, December 20, at 5:30 p.m. for

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Business After Hours at The Olympia Furniture Co. Business After Hours is a free

Volunteer Citizens

networking event. Hosts provide light appetizers and beverages, games and raffles.

This is a great chance to learn about a local organization and expand your network.

Where: Olympia Furniture Co., 2302 Harrison Ave Suite 101, Olympia, WA 98502.

Save the Date! Distinguished Leaders Awards

Advisory committees offer a formal way for individual citizens to regularly share their opinions and perspectives with decision makers.

Save the Date for the 18th annual Distinguished Leaders Awards celebration, Thursday, January 17, at Hotel RL in Olympia. The evening begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner and the program at 6:30 p.m.

Thank you Sponsors!

For further information, to make a reservation or for partnership opportunities, contact Alisha Blain at 360.357.8515 or email LTC@ThurstonChamber.com.

Save the Date! A Night on the Town in Venice Save the Date for A Night on the Town in Venice, Friday, March 1, Hotel RL Olympia.

The evening begins with a cocktail hour at 6 p.m. followed by dinner, auction and after party! For further information, to make a reservation or for sponsorship opportunities, please call Krystal Barkus at 360.357.3362 or email events@thurstonchamber.com

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Oly Fed's headquarters is located on the corner of Fifth and Capitol Way downtown Olympia. The building was built in 1967 and features unique hand-carved wood doors, depicting keys as a symbol of homeownership. Pictured: Sandy DiBernardo (left), Vice President, Marketing Director; Lori Drummond (right), President, Chief Executive Officer.

Banking Local at Oly Fed

A value-driven platform of thrift, home ownership & community involvement leads to organic & consistent growth for Oly Fed

By Natasha Ashenhurst

A

ccording to Lori Drummond, President/CEO of Olympia Federal Savings, banking local is the most impactful ‘shop local’ decision you can make. “We take in deposits and help people save money and buy homes. We hold onto loans for the life of the loan. Our customers

can walk in our door any time and get help. Our business model is set up to enhance the economic vitality of our area,” she said.

If this sentiment rings a bell, that is

In fact, a local group of businessmen

Oly Fed is a mutual institution.

because it reminds us of something

founded Olympia Federal Savings in 1906

Drummond explains what this means:

George Bailey would say in It’s a

as Olympia Building and Loan, the same

“A mutual institution promotes thrift,

Wonderful Life, the classic Christmas

model as the bank in It’s a Wonderful

homeownership and community

film about the small town president of a

Life. Excellent business practices allowed

involvement. There are no stockholders

building and loan dedicated to promoting

the institution to survive during the

— no one looking over our shoulder

home ownership and helping individuals

depression, and in 1934 it adopted a new

asking for a return on their investment.

succeed in the small community of

name, Olympia Federal Savings and Loan

Instead, we are accountable to employees,

Bedford Falls, New York.

Association, known locally as Oly Fed.

customers and our communities. We take

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coming out of recession and was in a growth period. After only nine months as a receptionist, Drummond became an admin assistant, helping develop a new marketing department. The department was a success, and over time, her role expanded, and soon she was overseeing the branches.

“A lot of the work was out of my realm, but I built relationships on trust and teamwork. Over the years, leadership continuously exposed me to new roles and new work. When leadership asked me to take on the role of CEO, I believed I had too great a gap in skillset, but I took the job and learned one of the most important lessons: You don’t have to know how to do every job you manage.

Instead, you have to hire great people and then make sure they have the tools they need to be successful,” she said.

Olympia Federal Savings was honored with the 2018 Leadership in Business Philanthropy award at the Leadership in Philanthropy lunch hosted by the South Sound Partners in Philanthropy on November 15, 2018.

Throughout Drummond’s tenure, the organization’s mission has not changed, but how they achieve their mission has. The most significant shift is their adoption of technology. “In banking, there is a lot of discussion about the viability of branches. My philosophy is that we will always have to have both. We invest in

in less profit for greater results over the long-term. Also, we can

our branches, our people and our in technology. We have to keep

designate a portion of our profits to go back into the community,”

the high-touch option for both online and in-person customers."

she said.

Another recent shift is Oly Fed’s focus on small business services.

Drummond and her board are committed to what she calls

They are now a Small Business Administration (SBA) approved

organic growth — growing with the community and building a

lender. They hired an individual with a lot of expertise in this

strong community.

area, as well as a seasoned professional with experience with commercial real estate and development. They’ve also recently

Today, Oly Fed has eight branches in Thurston and Mason

brought on a financial planner to meet the growing demand

counties, including its headquarters located downtown Olympia

from both small businesses and individuals who need help with

plus an online division affectionately known as the ninth branch.

retirement planning.

Its combined assets are approximately $650 million, and it employs 116 people.

However, every new program and service Oly Fed adopts must circle back to its mission to promote thrift, home ownership and

For the last ten years, Drummond has served as President and

strong community involvement.

CEO. Drummond was born in Arizona and moved to Bainbridge Island, returning to her family’s Pacific Northwest roots. She spent

This month, South Sound Partners for Philanthropy honored Oly

some time at Centralia Community College and graduated from

Fed for their community impact for the second time. Drummond

Washington State University with a B.A. in Business and a minor in

explained, “Our community involvement is not a one-time thing,

economics. “I graduated in 1982, which was a hard economic time.

but rather a lifelong business philosophy of philanthropy. Every

There wasn’t a lot of recruiting going on, so I moved in with my

year, we look at the percent of profits that we give back to the

parents who were living here in Olympia,” she said. For a while,

community. Our giving ranges between 10 to 20 percent of profits.

she worked at a jewelry store in the South Sound Mall but wasn’t

Last year, that equated to nearly $450,000 in financial support, as

excited about a long-term career that entailed commissioned sales.

well as, thousands of hours of volunteer service to approximately

Her dad, a banker at National Bank of Commerce, mentioned

300 local organizations.

that there was an opening for a receptionist at Oly Fed. “Initially, I wasn't excited about a receptionist position because I felt like it

“That’s why I believe banking at the local level is so important.

didn't put my degree to work; however, my dad said you would be

I see the impact first-hand, and ultimately it is about how we

fortunate to work at a bank like Oly Fed, so I decided to apply, and

connect on values and our commitment to investing in the

they hired me.” she said.

economic prosperity of our community.”

That was 35 years ago. Oly Fed, like everyone at the time, was

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Leslie Panowicz is back from Antwerp!

After days of sorting through thousands of diamonds, Leslie has returned just in time for the holidays from the diamond buying capital of the world! She has hand selected an array of spectacular diamonds for Olympia to see.

Schedule your viewing appointment today!

360-357-4943 www.panowicz.com

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Giving Local Gains Momentum

The Community Foundation of South Puget Sound's Impact on Philanthropy

By Doria Maselli

Y

ou may have heard the term “community foundation,” but wondered: “What exactly is a community foundation, and what role does it play in local giving? Community foundations are the fastest growing sector of philanthropy in the United States. There are currently more than 750 community foundations across the United States with combined assets of over $31 billion.

They are a popular choice for donors because of the services they provide connecting donor interests directly with community needs.

Since 1989, The Community Foundation

Their foundation manages unrestricted

the local community,” says Mindie Reule,

of South Puget Sound has served as a

funds, field of interest funds, donor-advised

Philanthropic Services & Programs

catalyst for charitable giving in Thurston,

funds, scholarship funds, agency funds and

Director. “We accept many different

Lewis and Mason counties. Through donor

designated funds.

types of gifts, from stocks to real estate to

generosity, they are building a permanent

bequests.”

source of funding to support a wide variety

“We manage $25 million in assets across

of arts, education, health and human

nearly 100 funds and handle gifts from

In Thurston County, The Community

services and environmental projects; and

charitable organizations and individuals

Foundation of South Puget Sound oversees

community members often seek them out

to distribute approximately $1.2 million

the newly established endowment for

for comprehensive charitable gift planning.

annually in grants and scholarships to

Quixote Communities, the Learning Seed

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Help shape the way our Port looks, feels and functions in the future The Port has been creating economic opportunity in Thurston County for nearly a century. Over time, we’ve also developed some of our community’s most prized community spaces and places and increased our role as an environmental steward.

Now we’re looking to the future once again, and we want you to help map it out.

So, WHAT’S NEXT? Share your ideas and priorities at www.portolympia2050.org

Foundation Scholarship Fund and the

Community Foundation of South Puget

To inspire giving during Give Local, the

Greene Realty Giving Fund. They also

Sound.

Community Foundation partnered with

manage the Coldwell Banker Evergreen

the Dawkins Charitable Trust to offer a

Olympic Realty Scholarship Fund - to name

“Our goal was to invite more people

$100,000 Incentive Fund. The Incentive

just a few of several in their portfolio.

into philanthropy. We recognized that

Fund proportionally increases the value

the impact of many small donations can

of every dollar donated. For example, if a

“We have a full-time staff of just four

rival that of some of our largest and most

nonprofit organization receives 5 percent of

people, and donors appreciate our close

prosperous donors, and that many young

the total donations during Give Local, that

connection with nonprofits and the

people who start with small donations will,

same nonprofit receives 5 percent of the

community,” says Reule. Their board

later in their lives, become larger donors,”

$100,000 Incentive Fund.

of directors includes a mix of donors,

said Norma Schuiteman, President and

charitable giving experts and community

CEO of the Community Foundation. “We

To drive excitement and donations, every

members of Thurston, Lewis and Mason

also wanted to broaden and deepen the

Wednesday during Give Local is “Giving

counties.

habit of giving across every sector of Lewis,

Bonus Wednesday.” Those contributing a

Mason and Thurston Counties,” Schuiteman

donation of $25 or more on Wednesdays

continues.

are entered to win additional funds for

On October 31, The Community Foundation of South Puget Sound launched its second

the participating nonprofit(s) of their

annual “Give Local” campaign. Give Local is

Thanks to the generosity of three local

choice. A special giving bonus this year was

a 3-week crowdfunding campaign designed

sponsors—Coldwell Banker-Evergreen

sponsored by Panowicz Jewelers.

to inspire local giving across Thurston,

Olympic Realty Inc., Olympia Federal

Mason and Lewis Counties.

Savings and the Dennis and Joan Peterson

“When we launched Give Local in 2017,

Family Fund—online fees including credit

we initially thought about doing a one-

Give Local is an online giving platform that

card fees are covered, meaning 100% of

day campaign, similar to those of other

features approximately 75 local nonprofit

each donation goes directly to the nonprofit

organizations and non-profits. But the more

programs that have been reviewed by The

organizations.

non-profits and community members we

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MEMBER PROFILE

Three Girls Media

“We manage $25 million in assets across nearly 100 funds, and handle gifts from charitable organizations and individuals to distribute approximately $1.2 million annually in grants and scholarships to the local community,” says Mindie Reule, Philanthropic Services & Programs Director. “We accept many different types of gifts, from stocks to real estate to bequests.” Above, Norma Schuiteman, President & CEO. Photo courtesy of the Community Foundation of South Puget Sound. consulted, the more we realized a longer

the community that focus on addressing

and more substantial campaign would

homelessness, supporting the arts and

allow it for a community-wide initiative

education and so many other valuable

that encourages more local giving in the

causes. The Community Foundation of

community and inspires philanthropy,”

South Puget Sound is privileged to be able

says Reule. “This campaign is different

to provide the organizations that make this

than anything we’ve done before; it’s a

community such a great place to live the

more public initiative that really allows the

support and funds that they need to make

community to understand our work and

a difference,” says Reule. “It’s an honor to

mission.”

work with people who care so deeply about

Three Girls Media, a world-class marketing agency, was excited to join the Chamber this fall. In business for more than 13 years, the company provides a wide range of content marketing services. Whether it’s blogging for search engine optimization, organic social media management or advertising, email marketing or copywriting for websites or other collateral, the firm takes great pride in helping other businesses shine.

For companies considering upping their marketing game in 2019, Three Girls offers a complimentary 30-minute no obligation consultation with CEO, Erika Taylor Montgomery, after which she’ll prepare a customized proposal to meet the business’ goals and budget.

Those who take advantage of the consultation before December 31st will be entered to win a choice of marketing services valued at more than $2,300!

reminder of just how many there are.”

Look for Three Girls’ display table at the December Forum event and say hi to Erika who’s named a 'Boss of

Dawkins Charitable Trust, bringing the

*The Community Foundation of South Puget

the Year' finalist!

total to $162,000. The giving for this year hit

Sound is confirmed in compliance with the

$210,463 as of November 21, 2018.

National Standards for U.S. Community

this community, and Give Local is a great In 2017, Give Local raised $122,000 with an additional $40,000 contributed by the

Foundations.

“The most rewarding part of my job is getting to work directly with non-profits in thurstonchamber.com

Three Girls Media, Inc. 408-218-2391 | 360-955-1410 info@threegirlsmedia.com www.threegirlsmedia.com Sponsored Member Profile.

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Boss of the Year Recipients To Be Recognized at December Forum The Thurston County Chamber is proud to announce the 9th annual Boss of the Year honorees at December Forum,

2018 Boss of the Year Recipients:

on Wednesday, December 12, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Kevin Stormans, Stormans Inc.

When: Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Buffet-style lunch

Joseph Wadsworth, Custom Source Woodworking

begins at 11:45 a.m. Program begins at 12:00 p.m.

Angela White, Olympia Master Builders

Where: Hotel RL Olympia, 2300 Evergreen Park

Zach Kosturos, Prime Locations

Drive SW, Olympia, WA 98502.

What: Forum includes lunch buffet. $35 for general admission, $25 for prepaid Chamber members, $30

2018 Honorable Mentions:

for members at the door.

Lowell Gordon, The Creative Office

To make a reservation to attend, register online at

Jill Barnes, The Washington Center

thurstonchamber.com.

FRIDAY MARCH 1 6PM

COCKTAILS • DINNER AUCTION • AFTER PARTY

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2300 EVERGREEN PARK DR SW, OLYMPIA

$125 PER PERSON | TABLE SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE

LEADERS OF TODAY, INSPIRING LEADERS OF TOMORROW.

THURSTONCHAMBER.COM

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Jeff Barrett, former Intel engineering manager, is the new owner of the State of the Arts Gallery & Gifts, located on Washington Street & 5th Avenue. Photo by Heather Harris, Elements Photography.

The State of the Arts Gallery & Gifts: An Established Downtown Treasure Under New Ownership

By Rebekah Finn

N

estled into the corner of Washington Street and 5th Avenue, below the historic Jeffers photography studio and across from the historic Capitol Theater, sits a long-standing downtown Olympia treasure: The State of the Arts Gallery. Founded by Deb Moody in 1992, the gallery changed hands in 2017, and is now owned and operated by former Intel engineering manager Jeff Barrett, who has added to the name: The State of the Arts Gallery and Gifts.

“I lived a life in corporate cubes for many

a thriving downtown community. When

beyond reading what someone else thinks.

years, and I was ready for a change.

the opportunity to take over The State

I want to be able to form my own opinion

It seemed like a great opportunity for

of the Arts Gallery presented itself, the

based on experience.”

something very different,” Barrett explains.

chance to be able to walk to work and be more involved in Olympia’s local economy

And Barrett has undoubtedly jumped in

A Passion for Downtown Olympia

was very appealing. After commuting to

with both feet, getting involved with both

Despite relocation offers from Intel,

Pierce County for so long, Barrett was

the City of Olympia Parking & Business

Barrett preferred to stay in Olympia,

excited to be able to invest in the city

Improvement Area (PBIA) Advisory Board

where he and his wife have chosen to

where he and his family live.

and the Olympia Downtown Alliance

raise their children. Barrett and his wife

(ODA). Along with a handful of other

have been customers of the gallery and

“I want to be able to see first-hand all of

downtown business owners, Barrett was a

other downtown businesses for many

the work going on in dealing with our

driving influence behind the ODA’s Third

years and have a desire as residents to see

community’s issues. I want to be involved

Thursday program, where “downtown

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With a wide variety of pieces in various mediums from paintings to ceramics, The State of the Arts Gallery and Gifts has an eclectic mix of regional artwork. businesses present unique in-store promotions, sales, book signings, artists, music and more.” For The State of the Arts Gallery and Gifts, Third Thursday is an opportunity to host artist receptions, where an artist can present their latest work to the community in person.

What the Gallery has to Offer With a wide variety of pieces in various mediums from paintings to ceramics, The State of the Arts Gallery and Gifts has an eclectic mix of regional artwork. While the gallery includes artists from all over Western Washington and even as far north as Vancouver B.C., the majority of the artwork is from right here in Thurston County.

“We have artisan, handmade jewelry that ranges from $14 to hundreds of dollars,” says Barrett. “We have wall art that ranges from $19 to thousands of dollars. We have pieces at all kinds of price points.”

Art is indeed a different business from technology, and there are many

We are not sure it will catch on, but we like it!

unique challenges that Barrett is learning to take on. One difference is the very personal aspect of both displaying pieces from individual artists and selling pieces to individual customers.

A gallery owner has to learn to say no when the timing is not right for an artist’s work or if it is just not the right fit for the gallery.

Personalized service, great products, and competitive rates — we think that’s pretty epic.

FIND OUT MORE AT

wabizbank.com

The State of the Arts gets many inquiries from artists hoping to sell their pieces as well as referrals and recommendations. Sometimes it feels personal to have to deny an artist, but it’s inevitable that not every request will be accepted.

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At the same time, a gallery owner also has to deal with the

gift for someone, unless it is a partner. Artisan pieces that have

personal tastes and feelings of individual customers. Often, a

more functionality, however, are much less risky as gifts. Barrett

person will be unsure of whether to take home a piece of art that

is working to bring in more practical pieces, like platters and dish

may or may not work well in their intended display area. There

sets, to expand his merchandise.

are also other household members to consider. In response to this dilemma, Barrett has started a “trial art” program, which allows

The Bigger Picture

customers to take home a piece for one week before making a

Barrett has extended the name of the gallery to include the gift

payment.

market, reflecting his vision for how the business fits into the downtown economy. He sees The State of the Arts Gallery and

“The lighting and the colors and the furniture and the paint on the

Gifts as one piece of a larger puzzle that makes up an entire

wall---it all has to work for the piece of art to work in that space,”

downtown experience.

explains Barrett. “The trial art program allows people to see if a piece will work in the home and if it’s approved and endorsed by

Because people can shop online more and more, part of the

other members of the household.”

importance of having a thriving downtown is to provide an experience. Rather than merely “shopping local,” people should

Additionally, there’s also a traditional layaway program to help

be able to “experience local.” This means when we come

customers pay for a piece of art over time. “For an original piece

downtown, we are not only shopping for one item at one store.

of art or a limited edition print, layaway lets you make something

We are having a meal, perusing a bookstore, getting a haircut,

yours that’s never going to be there again,” says Barrett, “without

seeing a street performer while we walk from happy hour drinks

running up credit card debt.”

with friends to dinner with the family.

Another way Barrett is innovating the business, perhaps using

Unique local and regional art is an essential part of that

his function-driven engineering experience as a guide, is taking

experience, and Jeff Barrett is excited to be a part of providing

a closer look at the gift market. Giving art as a gift can be very

access to that art. His commitment to the City of Olympia and

risky for customers because the appreciation and enjoyment of

the downtown is sure to be a huge asset to the future of our local

art can be so subjective. People rarely buy unique artwork as a

economy.

We’ll power you to a personal best.

Photo by Grant Clark

Business customers trust Olympia Federal Savings for commercial real estate lending that helps them build on a solid foundation of financial support programs.

Talk to Ken Pekola, Oly Fed's Commercial Real Estate Relationship Manager.

KEN PEKOLA

I

kpekola@olyfed.com

olyfed.com

thurstonchamber.com

360.754.3400

Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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December 2018

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As part of the Thurston County Chamber's Workforce Division, hosts Michele Winn (left) and Sytease Geib (right) share their insights and interview community leaders and experts on the topics directly affecting Thurston County's workforce.

Talent Magnet – A Podcast Aimed at Helping Businesses Tackle Tough Workforce Issues – Hits Record Number of Downloads Talent Magnet is the podcast with the mission

since January 2018 is close to 10,000. This data

E04: Great Minds at Work- Mental and

to help businesses become talent magnets.

indicates that the podcast is meeting a need in the

Behavioral Health in The Workplace

How? By focusing on recruitment, training,

marketplace and that it is gaining attention at a

and retention best practices.

national level.

Hosts Michele Winn and Sytease Geib, from the

Check out the list of titles available below or visit:

Thurston County Chamber’s Workforce Division,

thurstonchamber.com/workforce/talent-magnet/

E05: Veteran Friendly vs. Veteran Ready E06: Intercity Transit's Vanpooling Service

interview subject matter experts on the topics

E07: Career Connected Learning and Recruitment

of recruiting and retaining veterans, retaining

E01: Recruiting and Retaining Veterans

E08: Labor Exchange – Using the

excellent employees, layoff aversion, mental

and Military Spouses

WorkSourceWA.com to Connect

health in the workplace, career connected learning and using WorkSourceWA.com to connect job-seekers and employers.

E02: Retention Best Practices- Lessons From Pepsi Northwest Beverages, LLC E03: Shared Work and Layoff Aversion

Jobseekers and Employers E09: Building A Company Culture That Supports Recruitment and Retention

Last month, there were 1,472 downloads, a new

Program- How It Helps Employers and

Talent Magnet is brought to you by Pacific

monthly record. The total number of downloads

Employees

Mountain Workforce Development Council.

18 • December 2018

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Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

UPCOMING EVENT

2019 Distinguished Leaders Award honorees: (left) Cheryl Fambles, Pacific Mountain Workforce Council; (center) Meghan Goldenberger & Meagan Darrow, TOGETHER!; (right) Drew Phillips, FORMA Construction.

18th Annual Distinguished Leaders Awards Celebration Leadership Thurston County is proud

honorees through live and multi-media

to announce the 2019 Distinguished

presentations.

What: 18th Annual Distinguished Leaders

Leader Award honorees: Cheryl Fambles, Pacific Mountain Workforce Council;

The 18th annual Distinguished Leaders

Drew Phillips, FORMA Construction;

Awards celebration will take place on,

and Meghan Goldenberger & Meagan

Thursday, January 17, at Hotel RL in

Darrow, TOGETHER!

Olympia. The evening begins with a

The event recognizes leaders who

Awards Recognition Event When: Thursday, January 17, 2019, 5:30 p.m.

reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by

Where: Hotel RL Olympia,

dinner and the program at 6:30 p.m.

2300 Evergreen Park Dr SW,

demonstrate outstanding initiative,

Olympia, WA 98502

inspire others and make a significant

Leadership Thurston County is a

impact in our community and beyond.

program of the Thurston County

Our honorees this year all exhibit

Chamber Foundation and has been

unique and impactful leadership styles

developing informed, skilled and

Alisha Blain at 360.357.8515 or

that go beyond their organizations and

committed community leaders since

LTC@ThurstonChamber.com or

shine through their community support

1994. For information, please go to

visit leadthurstoncounty.com.

and involvement. We will recognize

www.leadthurstoncounty.com.

thurstonchamber.com

For further information, to make a reservation or for partnership opportunities, please contact

Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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ADVOCACY

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) was created to advise the City Council on the encouragement and facilitation of the use of bicycles and walking as regular means of transportation or recreation, make recommendations on roadway design standards, and provide for pedestrian and bicycle safety needs.

Volunteer Citizen Advisors Make for a Better Community

By Doug Mah, Doug Mah & Associates and Thurston Chamber's Public Policy Division Director

D

ecision makers work their best when they hear and understand a diversity of perspectives.

Our communities benefit from active citizen participation in the decision-making process.

Almost every public entity in Thurston County, such as the county, cities, and port use

citizen advisory committees. Advisory committees offer a formal way for individual citizens to regularly share their opinions and perspectives with decision makers. Most advisory committees operate as special focus groups, are staffed by professionals and meet monthly.

Our community benefits when members of the Thurston

The City of Olympia is looking for citizens interested

Chamber of Commerce join advisory committees. We bring

in serving on City advisory committees. The advisory

unique perspectives, insights and observations to any public

committee application period is open until Thursday,

policy discussion. Sharing our perspectives helps balance

Jan. 31, 2019. Terms generally run for three years, with

competing opinions and works to ensure all voices are

appointments ending March 31.

heard. The public policy division is ready to help interested Chamber members pursue joining an advisory committee.

Applications are being accepted for vacancies and upcoming

Let us know and we’ll answer your questions or address any

vacancies on the following committees: Arts Commission,

apprehension you may have about serving on an advisory

Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, Design Review

committee. We know that Chamber members have strong

Board, Heritage Commission, Planning Commission and

opinions. Consider serving on an advisory committee and

Utility Advisory Committee. More information is available at:

help us build a better community.

olympiawa.gov/city-government/advisory-committees.aspx

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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As the calendar year comes to an end and we look forward to a new year, the Public Policy Division seeks your support for the following activities and commitments heading into 2019: •

Ensuring that public policy debates and dialogue remain civil and respectful.

•

Working to bring public and private sector expertise together to address our most pressing regional challenges.

•

Seeking regional solutions to common community problems.

•

Advocating for new investments in our state and regional transportation system.

The City of Olympia is looking for citizens interested in serving on the Arts Commission. © Michael Turner | Dreamstime.com.

The City of Lacey is currently recruiting for the following

•

for business across all jurisdictions.

vacancies: the TCMedia Board and the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee. Please contact the City Clerk for more information at (360) 438-2625 or email cityclerk@ci.lacey.

•

commissions

Highlighting how public policy can harm or encourage private sector resiliency and growth.

wa.us. More information is available at: www.ci.lacey. wa.us/city-government/city-council/city-council-2/boards-

Calling for consistent local rules & regulations

•

Creating opportunities for Chamber members to provide input that helps define public policy issues and solutions.

Thurston County has more than 25 different advisory boards, committees and commissions that are appointed by

•

the County Commissioners. For information about each of

Providing leadership and stewardship for economic development and wealth creation.

the boards and commissions or to inquire about vacancies please go to the County website: www.co.thurston.wa.us/ bocc/boards-list.htm

•

Remaining steadfast in our advocacy for freeenterprise and the private sector’s important role in sustaining vibrant communities.

The City of Tumwater accepts applications for advisory boards, commissions, and committees throughout the

Critical to the ongoing work of the Public Policy

year. Complete and submit the application along with a

Division is the focus on strengthening partnerships,

letter of interest and resume with any pertinent personal

successful involvement in the public process, and

background information such as previous work or volunteer

support for regionally significant projects. We strive

experience or areas of interest and expertise to the Office of

to be proactive and are continuously refining how and

the Mayor, City of Tumwater, 555 Israel Road SW, Tumwater,

when we engage in critical community discussions.

WA 98501. Applications remain on file and, as vacancies occur, those that have already submitted an application

The Public Policy Division looks forward to 2019

are contacted for an interview. Appointments are made

and greater opportunities to help grow a prosperous

as positions open. More information is available at: www.ci.tumwater.wa.us/departments/mayor-city-

community by connecting people, ideas and resources.

Thank you for your support.

council/advisory-boards thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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Caught in the Lens...

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Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427