November 2017 VOICE Magazine

NOVEMBER 2017

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

INTRODUCING Chris wells

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United Way of Thurston County's New Executive Director

tART Cider East bay district B UI L DI NG CO M MUNITY PROSPERITY FOR OVER 140 YEARS

Public/Private Model is Catalyst for Economic Development

By David Schaffert, President/CEO of the Thurston County Chamber PUBLISHER Thurston County Chamber of Commerce

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

CONTRIBUTORS David Schaffert Doug Mah Natasha Ashenhurst Barbara Wakefield

T

his month’s issue of the VOICE

and quality project and the Port of Olympia

Magazine highlights another

as the land owner creating a platform for

development effort in our

opportunity.

community—the East Bay district’s

development by Walker John, named Westman Mill.

Sales and Marketing:

The project encompasses the construction of three buildings containing a total of 86 residential units, parking for 73 vehicles and retail space along State Avenue. Included in

Melanie Bell

the proposal is a pedestrian walkway that will

Blake Knoblauch

extend north from Cherry Street to Marine

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

Drive.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

We applaud this project as it demonstrates the

Phone: (360) 357-3362

far reaching opportunities a public- private

Email: info@thurstonchamber.com

venture creates for our community.

DESIGN Mosaic Marketing Studio

COVER ART Chris Wells, United Way of Thurston

We believe that Westman Mill will create vibrancy with its unique market-rate housing options and its appealing public space that will

County's New Executive Director.

transform the surrounding area and create

Photo courtesy of Chris Wells.

additional development opportunities on

PRINTING Print NW

contiguous land parcels.

CONTACT THE CHAMBER

The project also demonstrates alignment

PO Box 1427

between of the City of Olympia’s downtown

809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 Phone: (360) 357-3362

challenges. Past industrial uses created legacy pollution that our community must address

approximately 8,500 sq.ft. of commercial ADVERTISING

The property or “dirt” is not without its

vision and strategies, the developer’s desire to

prior to any projects moving forward.

This is where the public partnership—in this case the Port of Olympia—plays a critical role.

As Mike Reid of the Port points out, the private sector is not always in a position to address significant infrastructure cost challenges, such as cleaning up legacy pollution.

The Port, however, has the resources to invest in economic development platforms, including land restoration.

The end result is turning a project that would not have been possible because of upfront costs into a viable project which creates positive investment and economic returns for the community as well as a beautiful and vibrant public space.

The Chamber commends all parties involved with the project for aligning visions, strategies and market demands. ●

be a strong community builder with a unique

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: Capital Medical Center Little Creek Casino & Resort Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel Phillips Burgess, PLLC Port of Olympia Providence St. Peter Hospital TwinStar Community Credit Union South Puget Sound Community College Washington Business Bank

PLATINUM INVESTORS America's Credit Union - Lacey Conduent Greene Realty Group

Heritage Bank - Olympia Mills & Mills Funeral Home Morningside Olympia Federal Savings Olympia Orthopaedic Associates Print NW Saint Martin's University TAGS Awards and Specialties

GOLD INVESTORS Bakala State Farm Boggs Inspection Services Cabinets by Trivonna C.P.C. Landscape, LLC The Creative Office Firs Senior Living Community GHB Insurance

Grays Harbor Fair & Tourism Great Wolf Lodge Hometown Property Management Hooper Financial Services Jessica Jensen Law PS Nicholson & Associates Nisqually Red Wind Casino Olympia Furniture Company Pardiman Productions Puget Sound Energy RHD Enterprises SCJ Alliance South Sound Radiology Venables Pest Management Wells Fargo Community Bank

HERE’S TO A

HEALTHIER

OLYMPIA When it comes to the health and well being of this community, Capital Medical Center is proud of its many years of dedicated service to South Sound residents.

And today, as it has always been, our expert team of physicians, nurses and medical staff remain committed to providing unmatched personal care, medical expertise and innovative treatments and technologies in the years ahead. Why? Because like you, we all share a common goal: to make this community a better place to live.

For a physician referral, visit us online at capitalmedical.com or call 1-800-798-5143.

3900 Capital Mall Dr. SW • Olympia, WA 98502 • 360-754-5858 • 888-677-9757 • capitalmedical.com

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

©2017 BCI

PUBLIC POLICY CALENDAR

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

Fall is a season of transition for the Public Policy Division. Like other lines of business and entrepreneurial enterprises, public policy work has its own seasons and cycles of activity. Below are some of the things we'll be working on in the coming months.

Assessing Election Outcomes

Complicating matters is the fact that the State Legislature did not pass a Capital Budget during their last session. This put

November marks the end of the election

several projects of regional significance on hold, including:

season. Ballots are cast and the outcome

funding for an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for

of tight political races for city council

Capitol Lake; funds for Brewing and Distilling Equipment

positions and port commissioner will

that support the South Puget Sound Community College’s new

be known. In the fall, the Public Policy

brewing and distilling program and Tumwater’s Brewery

Division will assess if significant policy

district; and support for a proposed Agricultural Industrial

changes or approaches are on the horizon

Park in south Thurston County. The Chamber will continue to

due to changes in the region’s elected

advocate for passage of a Capital Budget that includes these

leadership. Activities include continued outreach to newly

projects.

elected and re-elected officials to listen, learn, and carry the voice of Chamber membership.

End of Year Activities

Local political leadership has an impact on all businesses.

Most local governments will be working

The Chamber strives to provide highly valid and reliable

and setting their tax rates, fees and

information to our leaders for guiding our communities. The

budgets in November and December

Chamber will continue working with all elected officials under

for next year. The Chamber will review

the belief that we can accomplish more good for the community

and assess proposed changes in policy,

by working together.

taxes and spending for consistency with private sector values and interests. Local

Prep for the State Legislative Session

governments will also be working to meet community project milestones before the end of the calendar year. The Public

Fall marks an uptick in advocacy

Policy Division will continue to monitor and provide support to

work with the State Legislature. The

“game changing” projects such as: The South Sound Behavioral

Public Policy Division will work with

Hospital in Lacey; The Views on 5th in downtown Olympia; and

Shared Legislative Partners to identify

the Pocket Gopher - Habitat Conservation Planning throughout

new projects and requests of regional

the county.

significance in November to bring to members of the Thurston Legislative

The next few months set the stage for changes and opportunities

delegation. Our delegation includes

moving forward. The Public Policy Division of the Chamber is

Representatives and Senators from the 2nd, 20th, 22nd and

eager to engage Chamber membership so that we can accurately

35th legislative districts as well as officials in the governor’s

respond to the needs of our elected officials. We encourage

administration.

Chamber members to stay committed and engaged in this work.

Together, we can accomplish more good for the community. ●

4 • November 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

What does a $50 annual tax investment to the Port look like?

RETURNING YOUR INVESTMENT

O

Business activity supporting nearly 5,000 familywage jobs +$100 million in wages

O

Environmental Stewardship: Budd Bay Clean-up, East Bay Remediation, Cascade Pole and more

O

Small Cities Program to support community development goals in rural Thurston

O

Port Plaza and viewing platform, waterfront trail, public docks and public waterfront access

O

and much more For more information on how the Port supports Thurston County visit

PORTOLYMPIA.COM

Proudly providing 44 years of Commercial Sales, Leasing and Management services

506 1/2 4th Ave E Olympia, WA 98501 Another building sold in Downtown Olympia!

Lisa Barker represented the Seller.

Lisa Barker

Commercial Leasing & Sales Broker

724 Columbia St NW, Suite 140 • Olympia, WA 98501

(360) 943-8060 www.rants-group.com

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  November 2017 5

Caught in the Lens...

6 • November 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

November 2017 Every month, the Thurston County Chamber offers several networking events, forums & workshops to the community. Here are some highlights you won't want to miss.

Young Professionals Network

CONTENT & CALENDAR In this issue...

4 Public Policy Update

Join the Thurston Chamber Young Professionals Network (YPN) at Cooper Point Public House, Thursday, Nov. 2 at 5:30 p.m. YPN is a great way to interact with younger professionals. Location: 3002 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia.

Fall is a season of transition for the Public Policy Division of the Thurston Chamber.

8

Morning Mixxer Join our host, Thurston Community Media, on Tuesday, November 7 at 7:30 a.m. for the Thurston Chamber’s Morning Mixxer. Thurston Community Media will provide breakfast treats, our sponsor L&E Bottling will provide the coffee bar—and you can enjoy a morning of networking.

Tart Cider An Air Force veteran and college professor join forces to launch hard cider business.

Forum: The Local Story of Freight Rail

12

Join the Thurston County Chamber Wed., Nov. 8 at 11:30 a.m. at the

Westman Mill

Hotel RL, for Forum. Supporting a healthy freight rail network is key to continued economic recovery. Affordable and efficient transportation is critical to our economy. From conserving fuel to mitigating pollution, rail is clean, efficient and a sound way to move freight. Learn more.

BAH By Elyse's Catering & Events Come and Experience Elyse’s Catering & Events Annual Holiday Open House Celebration. We are delighted to hold this year’s event in the elegant space of South Sound Manor. You will taste dazzling seasonal hors d’ oeuvres and traditional favorites. Come in, warm up with good food, festive décor and merriment. Thursday, November 16 at 5:30

This East Bay district project will add housing, shopping and public space downtown.

16 Learn IT. Prove It. Learn and certify with Microsoft Office at your local library.

p.m., 455 North Street SE, Tumwater WA 98501

Morning Mixxer by Melanie Bakala SAVE THE DATE for Morning Mixxer at Melanie Bakala State Farm at 2539 Marvin RD NE Ste D in Lacey. Melanie Bakala State Farm will provide the breakfast treats and our sponsor, L&E Bottling, will provide the coffee bar.

20 Meet United Way of Thurston County's New Executive Director Chris Wells begins her new role on November 13.

For more event information, please visit thurstonchamber.com

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  November 2017 7

An apple orchard in Washington State.

Tart Cider Emerges on Pacific Northwest's Craft Brewing Stage

By Barbara Wakefield

I

t’s getting a little crowded in the coolers and among the taps, quite frankly. Even more so since Tart Cider elbowed its way into the local craft beer, cider and wine scene. But this scrappy little company sees no reason it doesn’t deserve a special spot there. And not just locally. Move aside, Angry Orchard. Nick Timm and Zoe Van Schyndel launched Tart Cider LLC in June, and as Nick put it: “Things are starting to get interesting.”

A unique pairing

entrepreneurship teacher.

years, the conversation got increasingly animated, and they eventually decided to

Just last spring, Tart won a coveted prize

combine their talents.

from the University of Washington in

“He’s really smart and mature for his age.

Tacoma, the Veterans Incubator for

We mesh well because we come at the

Better Entrepreneurship. The VIBE

business from different angles, but we

First, of course, they needed to study

award, featuring a “Shark Tank” sort

work things through to good solutions,”

the market. What they found was a

of process, pitted Tart against 14 other

said Zoe, who before moving to Olympia

hard cider market glutted with mostly

startups.

a decade ago had lived mostly in Boston

sickeningly sweet offerings akin to

and Miami.

the saccharine flavors of bottled wine

Nick, an Air Force veteran and recent

coolers.

graduate of The Evergreen State College,

Nick, on the other hand, grew up on an

and Zoe, an Evergreen professor and

apple and cherry orchard in Okanogan,

What they didn’t see was much in the

Army veteran, walked away with $25,000

near the Canadian border in Central

way of anything with the crisp freshness

in startup money and an additional

Washington.

of a Granny Smith. What followed was

$25,000 in time and services.

They met in the classroom, where Zoe was Nick’s business and

tart, which became Tart Cider LLC. Once each learned the other had been making small hard cider batches for

8 • November 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

Just last month, they gave up doing the

thurstonchamber.com

Zoe Van Schyndel, co-founder of Tart Cider, shown on her porch with her dog Georgia: "I had been making cider on my own for years.

So had Nick. So it became obvious quickly it was something we had in common." distribution themselves, signing on with

most important being that grains used

Marine View Beverage in Tumwater.

in beer take only a few months to grow

From just a handful of local and regional

and produce, while apple and other fruit

bars, they are on their way to Ralph’s

trees used for cider can take three to five

Thriftway and Bayview Thriftway in

years.

downtown Olympia. Tart can also be found at Total Wine stores in the area,

In recent years, however, ciders have

through Bevmo in Seattle and at local

become the single fastest-growing

bars and restaurants. (If you don’t see it,

segment of the entire alcohol market.

“Ask your bartender!” Nick said.)

Chicago research firm IRI reported in 2014 alone, cider sales skyrocketed by

Perhaps most exciting to Zoe especially

more than 75 percent. Even craft beer

is that she is about to get her garage

has never seen such an amazing time of

back. The tiny wooden one-car structure

growth.

stuffed full of massive tanks and tubes And Eric West, publisher of the national

will soon be emptied when Tart’s production facility moves to a business incubator site in Tacoma.

A rich history

The Tart Cider logo was designed by Nikki McClure, a papercut artist who lives in Olympia.

Cider Guide in Virginia, doesn’t see that dwindling anytime soon. “I attribute the surge of interest in cider to the rise

of craft beer and a renewed interest in local food and drink.

Hard ciders have been around since before the Founding

I believe there will be continued growth among local and

Fathers. Those guys, in fact, enjoyed them quite a bit. The first

regional cider producers, even if growth eventually stalls for

John Adams, they say, drank as much as a half gallon a day.

mass-market cider brands,” he explained.

“It was THE drink of the time,” said Nick, who has become interested in cider’s history.

Washington has 63 cider makers currently, three of which are in Olympia. In addition to Tart, there is Whitewood Cider Co. and

As time went on, ciders with alcoholic content fell out of favor

Spire Mountain Ciders, according to Cider Guide.

as beer took over. Numerous reasons are cited, but perhaps

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  November 2017 9

This tank adds carbonation to the nearlyfinished cider product.

Washington is seeing a huge rise in the number of hard cider producers.

Here’s a look at some numbers.

•

2000: 2

•

2010: 10

•

2017: 63

(Source: Seattle Magazine and Cider Guide)

Want to learn more?

“Tasting Cider” (Storey Publishing, $19.95) by Erin James of Seattle is a new book about North America’s oldest beverage, offering flavor profiles and tasting guidelines. It includes recipes for food pairings and for cocktails using cider.

What’s in a name?

While cider is usually used to denote those beverages made with apples, there is also a distinct group of

Nick Timm, an Air Force veteran and graduate of The Evergreen State College is co-owner of Tart. .

Zoe and Nick wanted a festive feel for the artwork on their cans.

Dustin Carter, general manager of The

things like they’ve never been done

Westside Tavern in Olympia, believes

before,” she said.

Tart deserves to find success. “It’s a good product, and we like to support local

While those in the business world can be

businesses in everything we do.” Carter

a bit staid, she says it’s not true of her.

says having Marine View as a distributor

“I’m not a traditional person. I like

will be a major boost for Tart.

Birkenstocks, and I like business. To some people those things don’t go

Tart, which has 6.9 percent alcohol by

together, but they do for me,” she said

volume, has a unique taste, Carter said.

with a laugh.

“Their blackberry one, to me, was

Zoe knows what she’s talking about

phenomenal,” he said.

when it comes to business and entrepreneurship, and Tart gives her

And their signature Granny’s Grudge?

a great opportunity to use those skills

“It’s like biting into a Granny Smith

daily.

apple,” he said.

“Our goal in five years?” Zoe looks at Zoe once planned to be a marine

her ceiling, thinking. “Well, in three to

biologist, but like many plans, those

five years our goal is to be nationwide.

changed, and she ended up in the land

Within five years, I also want to be in

of business. She loves how her science

Asia.”

background can now come into play.

Her motto is pretty simple: “Let’s go do “We’re fermentation scientists and doing

this thing.” ●

beverages made from apple’s cousin, the pear. Its name? Perry. (That’s sure to win you something on “Jeopardy!”)

10 • November 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

Barbara Wakefield is a local writer and editor with Wakefield Consulting LLC. She can be reached at barbwake@comcast.net.

thurstonchamber.com

THIS

VETERANS DAY

MEMBER PROFILE

HONOR THOSE WHO SERVED

At Boggs Inspection Services we believe in hiring and supporting our Veterans. One of our Inspectors, Keith Bowman, served in the United States Marine Corps and we are proud to have him on our team. He also worked as a Production Supervisor for a manufacturing company, and then a Field Engineer for another company. He has been one of our inspectors for over four years now and has inspected approximately 1200 homes in that time. Keith enjoys the diversity that each day brings as well as helping people make one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.

Adam Graver, M.D.

360.480.9602 | boggsinspect.com | boggsinspect@gmail.com

Olympia Orthopaedic Associates Welcomes Adam Graver, M.D.

I

n accordance with Olympia Orthopaedic Associates’ mission to bring first class specialty care to

Thurston County, we are proud to welcome Adam Graver, M.D. as our newest fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeon.

Dr. Graver specializes in the hand and upper extremity and is eager to help patients improve their quality of life. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Graver, please call (360) 709-6230.

Olympia Orthopaedic Associates 615 Lilly Rd NE 100 & 120 Olympia, WA 98506 (360) 709-6230 www.olyortho.com SPONSORED MEMBER PROFILE thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  November 2017 11

'View from corner of State Ave, and Jefferson St. looking NE' is the architect’s rendering of the East Bay Development project, created

by Olympia architecture firm, Thomas Architecture Studios. Partners include Walker John, the developer, Port of Olympia, landowner, and Korsmo, general contractor.

Introducing Westman Mill

Market-Rate Housing, Shopping & Public Spaces are coming to Olympia's East Bay District

By Natasha Ashenhurst

D

rive by the corner of State Avenue and Jefferson Street in Olympia this month, and you’ll see a lot of activity. In early 2018, developer Walker John will break ground on 86 units of market-rate residential housing and 8,500 square-feet of commercial retail. Before that can happen, the Port of Olympia property is undergoing clean-up and recovery.

The project is significant because it will transform a contaminated site into a productive and

“Once Ecology approved

beautiful space in the heart of the East Bay District.

the action plan, we began removing the contaminated

The property’s history as an industrial site contaminated the soil, making it -- until now -- unfit

soil off the site — next we’ll

for use. The Port has been working with Department of Ecology for the better part of a decade to

add a layer of crushed rock

create an action plan to clean up the site -- referred to as a “brown field” -- and recently received

over the site,” said Mike

approval to begin restoration of the land.

Reid, senior manager of

12 • November 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

'View of Townhome Style Apartments from the NE. Looking down the pedestrian path extension of Cherry St. on the left' is the architect’s rendering of the East Bay Development project, created by Olympia architecture firm, Thomas Architecture Studios. barbecue area and a dog run. The units

business development at the Port. “At the beginning of this year, the Port unanimously agreed to lease the land to Walker John for 50 years.”

The development transforms a vacant property formerly fenced off and unable to generate community value to a vibrant extension of our downtown.

The project, now called Westman Mill, is named after Ed Westman – one of the pioneer developers who brought

“We can’t always wait for private investment to tackle environmental cleanup. The Port’s role in this and the City’s, was to take public investment and lay the foundation for the project, which then attracts private investment...Ports are the perfect entity to move that needle and create a platform for future investment.” -Mike Reid, Port of Olympia

townhome-style apartments, threestories high, each with bay windows.

revenue to the city. It will create more

We anticipate that these will be very

market-rate housing downtown, which

popular,” said Thomas. “Diversity of

all businesses in the district benefit from

housing types is critical as we add more

because it means more people shopping

units so we can meet the needs of our

and eating out downtown, which is in

varying tenants.”

“Our city has had these two large blocks sitting empty for decades,” said Thomas.

“The Port and the city have done a great job of taking care of establishing the foundation and the framework for future development by moving forward with road improvements, sidewalks and removing contamination, making it

Thomas wanted to give the buildings a similar look and feel as its neighbors -- the Hands On Children’s Museum (HOCM) and LOTT Clean Water Alliance, allowing it to fit in with the fabric of its well-designed neighbors by the use of glass, brick and natural wood finishes.

alignment with the City of Olympia’s The plan also includes 74 units of apartment flats above the commercial The project’s lead architect, Ron Thomas,

space. Floor plans include studios, one

AIA, President of Thomas Architecture

and two bedroom flats. Residents will

Studios, said the project will have a

have the use of a common space -- which

positive visual impact on the district.

includes function rooms, a deck, a

thurstonchamber.com

Bay.

and work out the long-term lease.”

“The buildings incorporate 12

“Once developed, it will bring tax

Downtown Strategy," said Reid.

Building, East Bay and beyond to Budd

possible for Walker John to step forward

plywood mills to Olympia and founded the Washington Veneer Company.

will have views of downtown, the Capitol

The project’s designers also created features such as hidden parking -- where all of the parking is screened from the adjacent public areas. It also includes a pedestrian-only walkway that will

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  November 2017 13

14 • November 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

'View of Parking area taken from the North' is the architect’s rendering of the East Bay Development project, created by Olympia architecture firm, Thomas Architecture Studios. The project’s designers created features such as hidden parking — where all of the parking is screened from the adjacent area. connect State Avenue up to HOCM and down to Cherry Street.

and recreate in a smaller footprint.

Ultimately, this project ties the East Bay District to downtown without gaps.

Both Reid and Thomas referred to the project as a catalyst for economic development, and a model for the way public and

Sidewalks 20 feet wide will run along State Avenue, which are

private investment can work together.

twice the size of average sidewalks. This is meant to encourage outdoor seating at restaurants and cafes, or for boutiques to

“We can’t always wait for private investment to tackle

display their products outdoors.

environmental cleanup,” said Reid. “[The Port and city’s role] was to take public investment and lay the foundation for the

Walker John received incentives from the Port to have TAS

project, which then attracts private investment. This is the same

design the building to achieve LEED Silver Certification.

model that we used when we developed the Farmers Market,

“This is a metric for sustainable design goals,” said Thomas.

which brought in private investment in the form of Market

“One of the biggest is that we are redeveloping a brownfield site.

Center and Anthony’s. Ports are the perfect entity to move that

We are returning contaminated land to full productive use.

needle and create a platform for future investment.”

"Additionally, we are using recycled or locally sourced materials.

“Our hope is that this is a catalyst, which will spur additional

We are paying attention to air quality. We are building in

development in the East Bay district and beyond,” said

systems to utilize low energy for [heating, cooling] and

Thomas. “We view this as an up-and-coming district and it

electrical. Sustainable design goals are manifested throughout

is my firm belief that it will have a huge impact on property

the entire project.”

owners of adjacent projects — it already has. It will spur mixed development, retail and housing.

The project is in alignment with Olympia’s long-term plan, which includes environmentally sustainable development that

“Someone has to be first — and in this case it was Walker and

adds urban density to the core—allowing people to live, work

his investors.” ●

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  November 2017 15

The Microsoft Imagine Academy offers technology courses on three levels: •

Basic digital literacy skills - Do you know someone who is new to computers? Help them get started with digital literacy classes. Learn the basics from using the Internet to sending emails or creating a résumé, this curriculum helps develop the essential skills needed to begin computing with confidence. The goal of Microsoft Digital Literacy is to teach and assess basic computer concepts and skills so that people can use computer technology in everyday life to develop new social and economic opportunities for themselves, their families and their communities.

•

Microsoft Office Skills – Including Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification. Proficiency with Microsoft Office software is the third most requested job-skill— across all occupations and employers. Now you can take that a step further and really stand out from the crowd by earning your Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification.

Prove your aptitude through testing and submit your MOS

Learn IT. Prove IT.

certificate with job applications!

In three easy steps, you can become a Microsoft Office Specialist and get certified for free at one of five Timberland library testing locations: Step 1- Decide which test to take and complete a SelfAssessment check list (available in library).

Step 2 - Study for the test using library resources.

• MOS Study Guides (books and eBooks)

Learn & certify with Microsoft Office

• Microsoft Imagine Academy (online tutorials) • Universal Class and Lynda.com (online courses) • One-on-one computer help (in-person tutoring) Step 3 - Schedule a test with library staff at any testing

Are you looking for self-paced training and up-to-date resources

location (Aberdeen, Chehalis, Naselle, North Mason, and

on Microsoft products and technologies? Timberland Regional

Tumwater). Library testing locations provide vouchers to cover

Library (TRL) offers free access to the Microsoft Imagine

the cost of the test ($100 value).

Academy for all Timberland patrons through a project funded by the state Legislature and administered by the Washington

•

Advanced skills for IT Professionals. You can gain valuable

State Library (a division of the Office of the Secretary of State).

skills and industry-recognized certifications to succeed in

Your Timberland library card gives you free access to over 400

an increasingly digital global economy across these four learning paths:

online courses and learning resources through TRL.org; courses are available in 20 languages, covering skills from digital

1.

and techniques.

literacy and computer skills, Microsoft Office suite, computer science and programming and Information Technology.

Computer science – coding skills based on the latest tools

2.

IT infrastructure – skills in IT administration and cloud platform solutions

For first-time users, it is quick to enroll in the Imagine Academy

3.

tools

at TRL.org and gain access to the full eLearning curriculum. You will need a Microsoft account to access the Imagine Academy.

Data science – introduction to data science concepts and

4.

Productivity – master business productivity applications

Email accounts ending in hotmail.com, live.com, outlook.com or xbox.com are already Microsoft accounts or you can use any

TRL is proud to be your free training resource on Microsoft

non-Microsoft email address to set up a Microsoft account. Easy

technologies and to help you reach your career goals through

to follow instructions will walk you through the process, and

quality online learning anytime, anywhere, across devices.

you can start taking courses in just a few minutes.

Learn more at TRL.org or stop by your local Timberland library! ●

16 • November 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

Tickets on sale now at Players Club, by calling 1-800-720-1788 & at LuckyEagle.com Must be 21+ See Players Club for details.

THE PLACE WHERE YOU BELONG JUST GOT EVEN BETTER thurstonchamber.com

I- 5 to Exit 88

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  November 2017 17

•

Rochester

•

1 - 8 0 0 - 7 2 0 -17 8 8

•

luckyeagle.com

Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo

T

he 2017 Regional Economic

400 decision makers and community

Forecast & Innovation Expo

leaders from all sectors of business and

is a one-day event focused on

industry in our region.

setting the economic stage for

our region for the coming year.

Presented on Thursday, December 7, 2017 at the Little Creek Casino in Shelton, WA, this conference brings

The 2017 Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo will offer: •

together regional businesses from a

review of the region’s economic

wide range of sectors.

Exhibitors will showcase a variety of

performance over the past year •

ahead for the coming year, and

Mason, Pacific and Thurston counties, products and services that help our

how you can be prepared •

showcased at the Expo •

now in its eighth year, has expanded

Time to network with the people behind the products and services

region stay competitive.

This high-profile networking event,

Insight from respected economists and business leaders on what lies

industries within Grays Harbor, Lewis, highlighting cutting-edge technologies,

An exclusive briefing on the 2017 Economic Vitality Index, the annual

•

Content-rich breakout sessions Breakfast and lunch from Little Creek’s highly acclaimed kitchen

each year and draws upwards of Learn more: www.thurstonedc.com ● 18 • November 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

Freight Rail in the Pacific Northwest The Hidden Workhorse of the Economy

R

ailroads are the backbone of today's economy,

Washington’s 28 freight railroads operate over 3,056 miles of

carrying 40 percent of intercity freight, moving one-

track and employ 3,967 in the Evergreen State. It would have

third of all U.S. exports, and sustaining more than one

taken approximately 6.6 million additional truckloads to move

million jobs nationwide.

the 119 million tons of freight that moved by rail in Washington

Just a single train can carry the freight of several hundred trucks while at the same time being four times more fuelefficient. This efficiency means that moving freight by rail rather than trucks reduces greenhouse emissions by an average of 75 percent. Plus, more freight moved by rail means less congestion on our highways.

More than twice as export-intensive as the average U.S. state, Washington and its manufacturers, farms and communities rely on freight rail to move commodities and products from inland locations to seaports. By one conservative estimate, well over 300,000 jobs – or 10 percent of total Washington State employment – exist because of the economic dynamism enabled by freight rail.

in 2014. Intermodal shipments, mostly originating at the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma, make up the largest part of freight rail shipments beginning in Washington. Intermodal and farm products are the largest rail imports to the state.

On Wednesday, November 8 at 11:30 a.m., at the Hotel RL Olympia, the community has the opportunity to learn how rail impacts Thurston County and why it is an often overlooked workhorse of our economic infrastructure.

The cost to attend Forum is $35 for general admission; $25 for online prepaid chamber members and $30 for members at the door. Register today at www.thurstonchamber.com Thank you to the November Forum sponsors, Window Genie, Sandstone Distillery and Hooper Financial Services. ●

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Thurston County Chamber VOICE  November 2017 19

EXECUTIVE SPOTLIGHT

Chris Wells is Ready to Lead Introducing United Way of Thurston County's New Executive Director Written by Natasha Ashenhurst.

T

hree things might surprise you about United Way of Thurston County’s new executive director, Chris Wells. First, she only wears black — a decision made to reduce the number of choices she makes each day and avoid clothes shopping. Second, she accumulates living things that need attention — especially rescued dogs who live to impressive ages. Third, she is an award-winning baker and cookbook author, known for her Kentucky Bourbon Pecan and Key Lime pies. A southerner by birth, and resident of Gainesville, Fl. for most of her adult life, she takes Key Lime pie very seriously.

Wells’ journey to United Way of Thurston County began during her 10-year stint as a radio show

Her work with community

host. “When you’re a public person, you have the opportunity to be a credible advocate for things

groups in volunteer and

you care about, and I had the ability to influence things in the community that I found important,”

leadership capacities led

said Wells. “I became attached to a number of local organizations, including United Way.”

Wells to realize she wanted to

20 • November 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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pursue non-profit development full-time, so she put the word

changed fundamentally, and we hadn’t crafted a new strategy to

out to her network. When she learned that United Way of North

address that.”

Central Florida was looking for a development director, she applied and landed the job.

Her approach to United Way development was grounded in her media experience: follow information wherever it leads, then

Wells knew the role would present an incredible challenge from

assemble a strategy around that information.

the beginning. The North Central Florida chapter was facing a serious problem in fundraising and drastic action was required,

Wells found that people don’t work with the same company for

but problem solving is what Wells loves.

their entire careers the way they used to. People move, they find new opportunities with other companies, they become

“I learned that while United Way does so many things right,

entrepreneurs. She learned that the large companies United

we hadn’t figured out how to respond to a new economic

Way depended on for so many years are much leaner today. In

landscape,” said Wells. “Traditionally, United Way [chapters]

fact, large companies no longer dominate the workforce. She

raised money primarily through workplace campaigns. Yet —

points to data that shows 98 percent of businesses in the U.S. are

across the board — these campaigns have experienced declining

small businesses, with 90 percent having 20 or fewer employees.

revenues for the past 30 years.

And companies with the fastest growing revenue are businesses with 10 or fewer employees.

“United Way continued to focus on trying to restore campaigns to the days when they were most successful, but I felt we were

“I decided that we need to engage those small businesses in a

taking the wrong approach. Our economy and workplaces have

really big way. We need to find out how they want to engage in

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  November 2017 21

WE’RE BUILDING SO YOU CAN, TOO

Introducing our newest associate, Christopher Luhrs.

A JD/MBA graduate of Gonzaga University School of Law, Christopher will focus his practice on real estate, construction, land use, and business law.

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22 • November 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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philanthropy and ask them about their obstacles to giving,” said

Wells plans on using the same approach in Thurston County —

Wells. ”Once we have this information, we can create a strategy

beginning with information gathering, followed by developing

based on that feedback.

customized giving opportunities to meet donors where they are.

“Our mandate is to meet our donors where they are and create

“United Way of North Central Florida’s small business program

a vehicle for giving that is tailored to their needs. This applies

has been wildly successful, so I developed a training program

to any group we’re not currently engaging — from young

around this giving model that I share with other United Way

professionals and business owners, to seniors, men, women and

[chapters],” said Wells. “All [chapters] are experiencing the

students.

same challenges, and all it takes is one person working at a local level to affect global change.”

“There is a place for everyone at the United Way table.”

At the end of the day, it is Wells’ belief in her ability to affect Wells also believes one of the biggest mistakes nonprofits make

change that drives her.

is to make assumptions about donor priorities.

“For as long as I can remember, I’ve had this feeling that I have “We have to tell our story in a way that is compelling and

an obligation to influence my immediate world in whatever

connects us with people, and then create opportunities

way I am able — that simple idea my mother taught me of

for philanthropy that meet the needs of these diverse

leaving things better than we found them,” said Wells. “I believe

constituencies,” said Wells. “We have a unique ability to do

that when we’re very intentional about this, we have enormous

that.”

power to do great things—and they’re right in front of us.

Wells tested this strategy in Florida, and her chapter

“People get overwhelmed about the state of the world and say, ‘I

experienced the single largest increase in community grant

can’t fix all that.’ What we need to focus on instead is just doing

funding in its 60-year history, offsetting significant declines in

the next right thing — whatever that is — to the very best of our

workplace campaigns.

ability. That’s how you change the world. That belief is what drives me.” ●

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Thurston County Chamber VOICE  November 2017 23

PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427