October 2017 VOICE Magazine

OCTOBER 2017

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

M

A

G

A

Z

I

N

E

Is Your Business Prepared for an Emergency?

B UI L DI NG CO M MUNITY PROSPERITY FOR OVER 140 YEARS

EXPERIENCE THE CAPITAL ADVANTAGE

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Chamber

Advanced Care For Hard-To-Heal Wounds capitalmedical.com

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

©2017 BCI

ONLINE, ANYTIME! for Flexible Loan Solutions or to Grow Your Business.

Plus, Everyday Banking and Mobile Banking.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

Tim Collins

Matt DeBord M D B d

Erik Heimann

Matt Hargrave

NMLS# 539571

NMLS# 1218316

Diana D iana G Grantham ranth ham

Paull Long P L

y s a E s I t ’ RT

STA E! N ONLI

OLYMPIA TUMWATER LACEY PANORAMA YELM

800.562.8761

Disaster Preparedness Means Community Resilience

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 Rebekah Finn Christina Butcher Alisha Blain

A

s the country grapples with

trauma — whether they are rapid onset shocks

the aftermath and recovery of

that result from a natural disaster or slow

Hurricane Harvey in Houston and Hurricane Irma in the

onset stresses, such as those caused by abuse

Caribbean and Florida, our

or neglect — they need resilience to survive

community is thinking about

and recover. Resilient communities and

our own looming emergencies.

individuals spring back from difficulties and

What we need to do today is prepare for the

return to normal, healthy activities."

inevitable emergency that will affect our

According to the Federation of the Red Cross,

business and our lives either tomorrow or in

communities that overcome disasters possess

ten years and the way we prepare is to make a

the following characteristics:

plan, both at home and at work. First, we cover

ADVERTISING Sales and Marketing: Melanie Bell Blake Knoblauch Phone: (360) 357-3362

the basics, and then we need to think about

loss of life.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

We do these things so that our business will

Mosaic Marketing Studio

COVER ART Courtesy of the City of Lacey. A photo

PRINTING Print NW

They are organized so they can identify problems, establish priorities and act.

•

They are connected and provide support

long after the clean-up is complete, because

networks as well as goods and services

we know that a prepared community is also a

when needed.

resilient community.

•

of the microburst that hit Lacey, May 2017.

•

endure long after a disaster, but we also do these things so that our community will endure

DESIGN

therefore recover more quickly with less

the proper insurance coverage and how our data is protected.

Email: info@thurstonchamber.com

Their people are knowledgeable and healthy and have prepared for disasters,

intangibles and figure out whether we have

Email: info@thurstonchamber.com

Phone: (360) 357-3362

•

Finally, resilient communities have strong

Dr. Rachel Wood is the health officer for

housing, transportation, power, water and

Thurston and Lewis counties, and she is

sanitation systems.

also part of the Thurston Thrives Education

CONTACT THE CHAMBER PO Box 1427 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 Phone: (360) 357-3362

& Resilience Action Team. She has written

Ultimately, a prepared business is a resilient

extensively about resilience and she says,

business and a prepared community is a

"When individuals and communities face

resilient community, so make a plan today.●

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 South Puget Sound Community College Washington Business Bank

PLATINUM INVESTORS America's Credit Union - Lacey Conduent Heritage Bank - Olympia Mills & Mills Funeral Home

4 • October 2017 Thurston Thurrston County Chamber VOICE

Morningside Olympia Federal Savings Olympia Orthopaedic Associates Print NW Saint Martin's University TAGS Awards and Specialties TwinStar Credit Union

GOLD INVESTORS Bakala State Farm Boggs Inspection Services Cabinets by Trivonna The Creative Office First Senior Living Community GHB Insurance Grays Harbor Fair & Tourism Great Wolf Lodge

Greene Realty Group 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

thurstonchamber.com

MARINE FUELING STATION NOW OPEN • Gasoline, High Flow Diesel & Ultra High Flow Diesel • 2 Sewage Pump-Out Stations • 220’ of fuel dock space • Most environmentally friendly and state-of-the-art facility in Puget Sound

6 TIPS TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR WINTER 1.

3.

4.

5.

Give your heating system a tune-up Check your roof Seal windows and doors Check exterior hose bibs and drain your sprinkler system 6. Check your chimney and fireplace 7. Check your gutters and downspouts

360.480.9602 boggsinspect@gmail.com | www.boggsinspect.com

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  October 2017 5

Pick your lucky numbers

Every Friday & Saturday in October Pick numbers 8AM - 8:50PM for the day’s cauldron drawings at 1PM, 3PM, 5PM, 7PM & 9PM Match all 6 numbers and you could win up to $100,000!

PLUS a $2,500 Bonus Hot Seat Drawing at 9:30PM each promotion day One $100,000 grand prize available. Subsequent 6 number matches win $10,000.

Must be 21+ Players Club member. See Players Club for details.

THE PLACE WHERE YOU BELONG JUST GOT EVEN BETTER 6 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

I- 5 to Exit 88

•

Rochester

•

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

•

thurstonchamber.com

luckyeagle.com

Featuring...

CONTENT & CALENDAR

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.

Oct. 3

Morning Mixxer @ Lasting Touch Memorial JJoin our host, Lasting Touch Memorial, on Tuesday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 a.m. for the Thurston Chamber’s Morning Mixxer. Lasting Touch will provide breakfast treats and our Morning Mixxer Sponsor, L&E Bottling, will provide a coffee bar. 3700 Pacific Avenue, Olympia.

Oct.. 5

Is Your Business Prepared?

Forum: Meet the Candidates JJoin the Thurston County Chamber Wed., Oct.11 at 11:15 a.m. at the Hotel RL, for a Candidates Reception & Meet the Candidates Forum.

Don't miss this celebration of politics, policy and people! This event will feature the Port of Olympia Commissioner race, a pivotal race with

Experts at Thurston County Emergency Management share strategies for preparing for an emergency

16 New Members!

Meet the newest members of the Thurston Chamber

regional significance.

BAH @ The Firs Senior Living JJoin us for Business After Hours on Thursday, Oct. 19 at

18

5:30 p.m. at the Firs Senior Living Community. Learn more

IT Prepared

about this organization while enjoying beverages, appetizers and networking. BAH is free to attend and is sponsored by Conduent and 94.5 ROXY.

Young Professionals Network SAVE THE DATE for the Young Professionals Network at

How safe is your data?

Learn tips from local experts.

23

Cooper Point Public House, Thursday, Nov. 2 at 5:30 p.m. The

Are you Covered?

Young Professionals Network is a great way to interact with

We talk with insurance experts about getting excellent coverage in place before an emergency strikes.

younger professionals. Location: 3002 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia.

For more event information, please visit thurstonchamber.com

thurstonchamber.com

Get to know the candidates for Port Commissioner, Port of Olympia

JJoin us for the Young Professionals Network at Speakeasy

younger professionals. Location: 325 4th Ave E, Olympia.

Nov. 2

Meet the Candidates

14

Young Professionals Network is a great way to interact with

Oct. 19

10

Young Professionals Network Y Salon, Spa & Bistro on Thursday, Oct. 5 at 5:30 p.m. The

Oct. 11

In this issue...

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  October 2017 7

Caught in the Lens...

8 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

A collection of photos taken at Chamber events during August and September i Farm, and Providence Community Care Center. Finally, the Chamber Foundatio

thurstonchamber.com

including: After Hours at Nearing Total Health, Morning Mixxer at Oly Social, September Forum, Foofaraw, Ribbon Cuttings at Bakala State on held a kick-off evening for A Night on the Town, Paris 2018.

Olympia City Council Candidates Forum Thursday, October 19th, 2017 Doors open at 5:30 pm, 90-minute program starting at 6:00 pm The View Point Room, Tugboat Annies 2100 West Bay Dr NW, Olympia, WA 98502 Sponsored by the West Olympia Business Association and the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce Thanks to Thurston Community Media for coverage of this forum This is a “no-host” event.

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  October 2017 9

Meet the Candidates for Port Commissioner, Port of Olympia

Bill McGregor

Bill Fishburn

E.J. Zita

Juqita “Gigi” McClure

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

T

his November, Thurston

The Port of Olympia is a countywide

named values being jobs, trade, business

County voters will elect

Port District. According to the Thurston

benefits and revenue generation.

the majority of the

County Auditor’s webpage, “Port districts

three-member Port of

are empowered to levy taxes, promote

Olympia Commissioners.

economic development, create incidental

Voters will choose

park and recreation facilities, and adopt

between incumbent Bill McGregor or

and enforce regulations for moorage

challenger Bill Fishburn (District 2) and

and toll facilities. The commissioners

incumbent E.J. Zita or challenger Gigi

set objectives, policies, and overall

McClure (District 3). Each candidate

port direction through comprehensive

brings a unique set of experiences

plans.” In March 2015, the Thurston

and perspectives to the job of Port

County Chamber and leaders from the

Commissioner. The four port candidates

International Longshore Warehouse

were asked to reply in writing to three

Union (ILWU) Local 47, sought to answer,

questions regarding port activities and

“How does the public view the Port of

operations. These written responses

Olympia” and hired Elway Research,

help serve as a primer for the October

Inc. to conduct a public opinion poll.

Forum (Wed., Oct. 11, at 11:15 a.m.

The research confirmed that the public

at the Hotel RL) where each Port

recognizes the Port as an economic

Commissioner candidate will answer

development leader in the community. It

questions and articulate why he or she

also indicated that many people believe

is the best person to be your next Port

that the Port doesn’t really impact them

Commissioner.

personally. However, nine in ten people

Port Commissioners and the Port of Olympia play a unique role in economic development across Thurston County.

surveyed named at least one benefit of having the Port of Olympia in our

The dominant finding of the 2015 poll was that there is broad support for the Port and its many activities.

The suggestion that knowledge of port operations and functions may not be as deep as might be desired is an opportunity and challenge. The opportunity lies in the fact that the more people know about the range of Port activities, the more they value it.

The Thurston County Chamber and its Public Policy Division encourage all voters to gain a better understanding of the Port of Olympia, its operations, and impact on the local economy. A great place to start is to meet and better understand the perspectives of the candidates who desire to serve as the leaders of the Port. To register for the Meet the Candidates Forum in October, visit thurstonchamber.com ●

community, with the most frequently

10 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

Question 1: A recent report* indicates that direct, induced, and indirect jobs associated with the Marine Terminal increased from 407 jobs in 2009 to 564 jobs in 2014. This is an increase of 157 jobs or 38.5 percent. Going forward, how will you retain and grow jobs associated with the Marine Terminal?

A. Bill McGregor

A. Bill Fishburn:

A. E.J. Zita

A. Gigi McClure:

The Port of Olympia has surplus Marine Terminal handling capacity. The Port has been actively marketing new customers to supplement the movement of the cargoes currently being handled. During 2017, we have increased the transport of agricultural products (corn) and livestock along with a shipment of gold ore. I will encourage the Port staff to look for more opportunities in handling agricultural commodities along with breakbulk cargo, such as heavy machinery and components for renewable energy projects. The addition of Cruise Lines calling the Port in 2018 increases Tourism and generates new dollars in our community.

The referenced “impact study” is a cookie-cutter modeling of benefits without costs, not grounded in the social and economic environment of Thurston County. It is useless to a policy maker. I support quality research informing specific actions to improve the lives of county residents. The Port of Olympia's mandate is to promote projects providing this county with stable, livable wage jobs in a climate conscious manner. This is how I judge existing projects like the Marine Terminal and future projects like clean technology.

Job growth sectors in Thurston county include State Government, Social/ Professional Services, Retail, Food, and Construction.

“Direct” maritime jobs increased from 177 to 249 (from 2009-2014). More log truck and terminal jobs, with lower pay (Martin2016_p39).

If maritime jobs left Olympia, they would not be lost, but “relocate to another port” (Martin2016_p4). Economic benefit from the Marine Terminal declined significantly (83% lower than in recession period). “Direct” Personal Income increased by $6 M, but Business Revenue suffered a much larger loss of $162 M.I directed the POCAC to study opportunities to improve Marine Terminal business, to benefit maritime workers and community.

Consider recreation and tourism, incubator hubs, passenger ferries, more.

As one of three Port Commissioners, I will not act alone to retain and grow jobs associated with the Marine Terminal.

Together, I will work with the Executive Director and other two port commissioners to pursue new policy. This policy should incorporate economic development with technological adjustments to new innovations over time, environmental implementations, succession planning, and training in that regard for all those who work at the Marine Terminal. We need to look forward at every step of the way for new developments that will enhance all future growth and our environment.

Question 2: The report* indicates n that the Port’s four llines of business add $236.1 million in personal income and local consumption. Of this amount, 54 percent comes from the Airport and New Market Industrial Campus. What do you see as the top priorities for the Airport and New Market Industrial Campus?

A. Bill Fishburn: A. Bill McGregor A. E.J. Zita A. Gigi McClure: The Port of Olympia hired an airline service consultant to investigate the return of air service to Olympia. While regular air service may not be feasible, there are charter services and scenic flight businesses that may expand their services to the public.

In addition, construction and manufacturing businesses have told me that there is a shortage of trained employees who can use sophisticated computer tools to do on site repairs of mechanical systems. I hope that new Market Campus can be expanded to offer additional training for these well-paying jobs for the young people of Thurston County.

One year ago the Port updated its Airport Master Plan. Only three months ago, the Port Commission approved its CSHI covering the Airport and New Market Industrial Campus. Neither of these documents provides a climate conscious perspective regarding operations, commercial development, or land use. This is a must. In addition, as former federally owned properties, these areas are dependent on the Federal Aviation Administration. Given the Federal government’s intention to privatize air traffic control and eliminate rural airport subsidies, proposals for regional air service must take these two factors into account, as well as Tumwater's planning priorities.

*The official title of the report is: The Economic Benefits of the Port of Olympia. Prepared by Martin Associates, January 26, 2016.

Airport income fell by nearly half ($247 to $128 M), down from over 70% of total port income ($351 to $235 M).

Sustained by FAA subsidies.

Top priority is sustainable development of real estate, where infrastructure already exists (roads and utilities).

Serve communities and protect environment. Aim for Tumwater goals: housing and mixed-use development (shops, restaurants, clinics, etc.), and brewery re-development. Small passenger airline service might fly - population is doubling and SeaTac needs third runway. Study future expanded transportation options, including bus/rail transportation hub. Seek grants for renewable energy installations. Improve building efficiencies. Farm for veterans.

As financial matters improve at the port, we should consider the future upgrade at the terminal facilities so a modern terminal is available as an opportunity to include inbound and outbound flights as well as rental space.

We must continue to reach out to businesses that want space for cargo transition or storage as Thurston County continues to expand. With the New Market Campus, I would prioritize continuing to work with the Economic Development Council and other business partnerships to target entrepreneur startups or pre-apprenticeship programs with local union organization training facilities.

Innovation should be encouraged at each location.

Continued on page 12 thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  October 2017 11

Continued from page 11

Question 3: The 2016 report includes the impact of 4,000 visitor nights for transient recreational boaters in 2014. What is your vision for tourism in Thurston county and how can the Port of Olympia best work with other jurisdictions, agencies, and businesses to stimulate local tourism?

A. Bill McGregor

A. Bill Fishburn:

A. E.J. Zita

A. Gigi McClure:

The Port of Olympia has already made a large step forward with the agreement of American Cruise Lines to begin docking at the Port in 2018. I can foresee other businesses providing services to cruise passengers including customized tours of landmarks in Olympia, shuttles to restaurants or to nearby places such as the Deschutes River Falls and salmon hatchery, the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually Wildlife Refuge, Wolf Haven and/or tour of other sites in Thurston County.

In addition, the opening of the Swantown Marina Fuel Dock will encourage more recreational boaters to visit the State Capital now that refueling is made more convenient.

Under statute, the Port can participate in promoting tourism. It should work with appropriate agencies to promote the industry in ways appropriate to its greater mandate to provide and protect recreational opportunities and quality of life for Thurston residents.

Tourism should stem from policies promoting living wage jobs and a healthy environment. The Port must partner with other jurisdictions, agencies, businesses, and the Squaxin Island and Nisqually Tribes to nurture Thurston’s mountains, valleys, waterways and shorelines. Thurston tourism grows stronger as an inspiring showcase for building a strong, forwardlooking and climate conscious relationship to the natural world that sustains us.

The Port should partner in growing tourism, sustainably.

Thurston County tourism is undercapitalized, with great potential to contribute to our local economy. Study passenger ferries from Olympia to Tacoma and Seattle, for transportation and emergency management, and to stimulate downtown businesses (while earning ¼ of expenses from fares).

City of Olympia reports that 2 feet of sea level rise will cause 150 floods per year at the Port. Recreation can still be viable, even with weekly king tides at the Port. Need to restore shorelines and remediate legacy pollution.

The port has partnered with the Washington State Tourism to identify future tours for cruise ships. The OlympiaTumwater- Lacey Visitor’s Convention Bureau (VCB) operates a central website, “Experience Olympia & Beyond”, that collaborates with all the cities and towns in Thurston County on local events, destinations, lodging.

As the VCB grows, the Port of Olympia should play a larger role promoting this region’s uniqueness, hospitality, and services. The port supports the Farmer’s Market, and East Bay Trail along with many annual events. These experiences and future developments should be highlighted and improved along with the VCB.

Meet the Candidates Forum Featuring Port of Olympia Commissioner Candidates Luncheon & Moderated Discussion Wednesday, October 11, 11:15 a.m.

Hotel RL Olympia Register at www.thurston chamber.com

12 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  October 2017 13

Plan for the Worst.

Hope for the Best.

By Natasha Ashenhurst

M

ost successful businesses have a plan — a marketing strategy and/ or long-range goals in place — but not many have drafted a disaster preparedness plan, let alone drilled employees through mock disaster situations. Vivian Eason, emergency management coordinator for Thurston County, would like to see that change.

Eason hopes that the current media coverage of hurricanes Harvey and Irma in the Gulf of Mexico

warnings. Eason recommends

will help folks in Thurston County take action to prepare for emergencies of their own — whether

following the Thurston County

by fire, flood or flu.

Emergency management on Facebook and Twitter and

The VOICE spoke with Eason in September, and she outlined the steps organizations should take

recommends both households

to prepare for a disaster or emergency. While most of us think of disasters arriving in the form of

and businesses should have

an earthquake or flood, Eason cautions that businesses also need to plan and drill for an active

battery-operated radios in

shooter situation, widespread flu outbreak or a fire.

order to listen to National

Step One: Prepare Personnel

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Thurston

According to Eason, the first step to create a prepared business is to make sure employees are

County alert systems. She

prepared at a personal level.

cautions people always

First, individuals and families should think about how they will receive emergency alerts and

14 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

check the source of the news they receive and should

thurstonchamber.com

The Thurston County Emergency Management team works through a simulation exercise in June 2016 called Cascadia Rising. This was the largest disaster drill ever conducted in the Pacific Northwest, and according to the Seattle times, emergency management experts found that, despite decades of warnings, the region remains dangerously unprepared to deal with a Cascadia megaquake and tsunami. avoid second-hand information, as it is

with their loved ones, you need a way

businesses need to think about having

often false. Instead, rely on first-hand

to communicate with your employees,”

desk kits or a supply of food and water

information from a reliable source.

said Eason. She recommends creating a

set-aside,” said Eason. “Some businesses

phone tree to communicate important

keep dehydrated food on hand; others

Next, households should have a shelter,

information in a fast and efficient

have a kit for each employee. No matter

evacuation and communication plan.

manner. The communication plan can be

what system you choose, you need to be

These include thinking about food

as simple as a brochure that employees

able to take care of your staff until you

and water. In the past, Eason and her

carry in their car or briefcase.

can get help.”

Step Three: Create a “Shelter in Place” Plan

Step Four: Drill, Baby, Drill

Most organizations have a first aid

Finally, once communication and shelter

kit and fire extinguisher in a central

plans are in place, organizations need to

location, but not many have a supply of

drill for an actual emergency so they are

emergency food and water on site.

prepared if disaster strikes.

According to Veronica Rich, VP of Human

O Bee, for example, practices safety on a

colleagues suggested three days of food and water, but after the Cascadia Rising drill, they now recommend two weeks of food and water.

Organizations also need to designate essential personnel from non-essential personnel. Outline strategies for essential personnel getting to and from your organization in events such as snowstorms, floods and any situation where the roads are difficult to navigate.

Step Two: Develop An Emergency Employee Communication System “Once your employees have a plan and know how they will communicate

thurstonchamber.com

Resources at O Bee Credit Union, every O Bee location maintains a 72-hour shelter in place inventory in the event of an actual emergency. Their supply includes basic necessities such as water, flashlights , hand crank radios, and also food.

monthly basis.

"A calendar was created for all locations to practice different drills every month in case of a natural disaster or other emergency situation. We also created an incident response booklet which is

“If a disaster takes place when employees are at work and they can’t get home,

available at each location that provides step-by-step instructions on what to do in different scenarios to include robbery

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  October 2017 15

Tipsy Piano Bar opened at the end of August.

Welcome, New Members ADP Aaron Ness (253) 318-4917 www.adp.com Payroll Service

Country Financial - Eric Kleemeyer Eric Kleemeyer (360) 357-4060 Insurance

Advanced Language Liaison, LLC Raymond Bentson (360) 470-2650 www.advancedlanguageliaison. com Education - Consultants & Services

Emerald City Music Andrew Goldstein (206) 250-5510 www.emeraldcitymusic.org Non-Profit Organizations & Associations

Angle Agency JoAnn Doss 360-426-8272 www.angleagency.com Insurance AXA Advisors Simon Vlas (360) 815-7412 Banks/Mortgage Companies/ Financial Services/Financial Planners Continental Computer Services Erik Johnson (360) 915-4518 Computer Sales & Services Cost Plus World Market James Garcia 510-694-3298 www.worldmarket.com

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Christy LeGeer (360) 491-7985 www.hiexpress.com/laceywa Hotels & Accommodations Ila's Foods, LLC Debbie Kilcup (360) 870-4109 Grocers Maestro Strategic Solutions Dave Maestas (360) 280-1068 maestrostrategicsolutions.com

Advertising Agencies

Media Marketing Solutions LLC Carlos Camargo 206-915-5270 mmsmedia.net Marketing Programs & Services

Home Décor 16 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

Meridian Campus Family Dental Katelyn Catalana (360) 205-1139 meridiancampusfamilydental.com

Dentists & Orthodontists

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care Drew Flowers (360) 763-7515 www.indigourgentcare.com Clinics – Medical Oly Float Dan Larsen (360) 972-3031 www.olyfloat.com Floatation Therapy Olympia Chiropractic Center Erryn Horne (360) 943-8250 www.olychirocenter.com Chiropractors, D.C. Olympia Pest Management Samantha Malone (360) 819-4120 olympiapest.com Pest Control Phoenix Rising Wellness Center Shamika Cordis (360) 728-0315 www.phoenixrisingwc.com Chiropractors, D.C.

Professional Accounting and Tax Service, Inc. Jerry Long 360-972-5830 Accountants - Certified Public Speakeasy Salon, Spa and Bistro Kelli Tagles (360) 515-5437 www.speakeasyoly.com Salon & Spa Tart Cider, LLC Zoe VanSchyndel (360) 515-8234 www.tartcidery.com Brew Pubs, Sports Bars, & Wine Bars Tipsy Piano Bar Jonas Rodriguez 360-915-7181 Brew Pubs, Sports Bars, & Wine Bars Viva-Getics Lyfestyle System Tracy Jo Hamilton (763) 639-7258 www.vivagetics.com Life Coach Zach Johns Metlife Auto & Home Zach Johns (425) 999-2632 Insurance

thurstonchamber.com

drills which proved to be useful during our first robbery which took place on June 5," said Rich.

“The more you drill and the more you practice, the better you will react in stressful situations,” said Eason. “O Bee worked with the fire department to learn how to evacuate [the building] in the case of a fire and taught all of their employees how to use a fire extinguisher.

“Know the risks your business faces based on where it is located and drill accordingly. If you are in an area prone to flooding, drill for that. If you are on the fifth-floor of a building and have staff who can’t take the stairs, drill for that.”

Local fire departments are an excellent resource to help create an emergency evacuation plan, said Eason. She said these plans are especially important to think about if any employees have disabilities, which could make it more difficult for them to evacuate. Drill for other things like an active shooter situation, a chemical leak, terrorist threat, an earthquake or a flood.

Planning will not only save lives, but it can save the business from financial loss. During the 2007 floods in Rochester, an egg farm had an agreement with a helicopter business to fly produce out and supplies in when they were cut off from their supply chain. A local veterinary clinic recently installed a generator to prevent the loss of valuable medicine during power outages.

“Ultimately, businesses and individuals need to be prepared to be on their own at home and at work. They need food and water,” said Eason. “Most importantly for the community, they need to be ready to come back strong and resilient after a

Photos above are courtesy of the City of Lacey taken after the May 2017 microburst. The photo below is courtesy of the Olympia Tumwater Foundation taken during flooding of the Deschutes River at Tumwater Falls.

disaster and they need to be ready to help their neighbors.” ●

Is your organization ready for an emergency? Below you'll find resources to walk your organization through the planning process.

•

Thurston County: http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/em/

•

City of Olympia: http://olympiawa.gov/news-and-faq-s/disasters-and-emergencyinformation.aspx

•

Department of Homeland Security (for Households): https://www.ready.gov/

•

City of Tumwater: http://www.ci.tumwater.wa.us/departments/fire-ems/ ready-for-action/emergency-management

•

Dept. of Homeland Security (for Businesses): https://www.ready.gov/business

•

City of Lacey: http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/portals/0/docs/public_works/plan_ documents/cemp_final_2013_update.pdf

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  October 2017 17

Data, Networks & Disaster How businesses can best prepare for IT disasters

By Christina Butcher

E

mergencies aren’t always the result of natural disasters. This is especially true when we’re talking about business. Emergencies can come in the form of losing key employees, experiencing a sudden drop in sales or realizing your equipment is faulty and stalling production.

matter if the emergency is encryption, ransomware or a hurricane. It’s all destructive to your business.”

With over 16 years of experience in technology, Whitley is acutely aware of the damage data and network emergencies can cause for businesses, as well as the measures they can take

But when it comes to technology, almost all emergencies a business might face can be

to prevent them. He spends his days

prevented or combatted the same way: with preparation and risk management. “It

at BrightWire (which he founded

really doesn’t matter what the emergency is,” says Todd Whitley, CEO and co-founder

with chief technology officer Gordon

of the information technology (IT) services company BrightWire Networks. “It doesn’t

Carlisle in 2005) preventing technology

18 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

emergencies working in systems

and avoidance are some of the best

management, network administration,

preventative measures they can take.

security services and support services to help clients prevent and

It’s also important to recognize that

appropriately respond to technology

when it comes to social engineering,

disasters. “BrightWire becomes their IT

every business is a potential target,

department,” says Whitley. “We take on

regardless of size. “One of the biggest

responsibility for every aspect of their

misnomers I hear is, ‘I’m not a target,

day-to-day infrastructure management,

I’m a small business. Why would anyone

project management and help desk

want my data?’ That’s a very dangerous

services. We’re a technology company,

mindset. The fact of the matter is all

but when we’re working with a client, it’s

businesses are always a target.”

all about protecting their business.”

Another common technology disaster In doing so, BrightWire can help

emergencies happening around us:

Todd Whitley, CEO and co-founder of the information technology (IT) services company BrightWire Networks, located in Olympia.

social engineering, in which people use

up (email) attachments, which allows

businesses recognize and prevent some of the most common technology

electronic deception to intrude on or access our data and networks.

“Over the last year or two, we’ve seen a huge increase in the use of ransomware, a network intrusion in which people are targeted via email,” says Whitley.

“They’re tricking people into opening

criminals to work their way around a lot

is data loss after failing to properly put backup systems into place. And if you don’t think it can happen to your business, think again. Home Office Computing Magazine reported that 31% of businesses have lost all their data due

of anti-virus and anti-spam tools.”

to events beyond their control. Even

Luckily for most businesses, simple

lose their data will shut down within six

measures like utilizing anti-spam, antivirus software and ramping up employee training in malware recognition

more shockingly, 60% of companies that months of the disaster. “A lot of times, a backup system isn’t working properly but a business assumes it is. It’s an ‘out of sight out of mind’ situation,” says

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

FOR LEASE

824 State Ave NE • Olympia The Rants Group represents the owner for leasing of this professional RI¿FH EXLOGLQJ &DOO 'DQLHOOH RU %HFN\ IRU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ

Danielle Rants Commercial Leasing & Sales Broker

Becky Samuelson 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  October 2017 19

Copper network patch panel in a data center.

Whitley. “They’re focused on other

be expensive...and executing on it

things, so it falls to the wayside. No

might be a challenge...but losing your

one validates that the backups work.

data or network is a real risk,” says

Typically, businesses both small and

Whitley.

large don’t have things set up properly.

They aren’t aware of how risky this is."

In business, the question should not be if a technology disaster will

The easiest way to find out if your

hit, but when. Even businesses with

backup systems are operating properly,

employees properly trained in social

according to Whitley, is to have an

engineering, backup systems in

expert take an assessment of your

place, and professional assessments

network and data systems.

and risk mitigating procedures will eventually find themselves faced with

“It’s best practice to have a third party

a technology disaster. So, what should

come in and look, make sure things are

businesses do when the inevitable

set up properly and provide a report.

happens? The answer is simple: focus

If you’re not sure if you have a viable

on recovering as quickly as possible.

253-693-8438

madcapmarketing.com

backup or if you can recover, then you need to talk to a professional. That goes

“What it really boils down to is how

a long way towards mitigating the risk,”

quickly you can recover from a

says Whitley.

disaster,” says Whitley. “You have to be prepared. You have to ask

Having an assessment taken isn’t just

yourself, ‘what’s my biggest risk, what

a preventative step, either. It’s also

do I need to do to mitigate that risk,

a critical reactive tool that can help

and if it happens, how quickly can

businesses develop protocols to use

I recover?’ That’s a general disaster

once disaster hits.

preparedness concept. In the world of IT, it’s really a question of, ‘what’s my

“Discover your single points of failure

recovery time?’” ●

and then get rid of them. It might

Christina Butcher is a freelance writer and owner of Blue Cactus Press.

20 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  October 2017 21

LTC Class of 2018. Photo by Heather Harris of Elements Photography.

LTC Class of 2018 Takes the Stage

By Alisha Blain, LTC Coordinator Department

On September 7, the Leadership Thurston County Class of 2018 came

Albert Brown, South Puget Sound Community College

together for the Opening Retreat to start their 10-month journey of community

JaNessa Bumgarner, Lucky Eagle Casino and Hotel

connections, involvement exploration, and learning about current issues. LTC is

Craig Clark, Pacific Mountain WDC (PacMtn)

a community immersion based leadership program of the Thurston County Chamber

Erin Conine, City of Olympia

Foundation.

Bryon Dahl, Adult Family Home Council Meagan Darrow, TOGETHER!

Introducing the LTC Class of 2018 Rodney Anderson, Capitol City Press Heidi Andrade, South Puget Sound Community College Jana Ayres, Olympia Credit Union Shawn Ball, Thurston County Krystal Barkus, Thurston County Chamber of Commerce Paulette Beadling , Hands On Children's Museum Daniel Berner, Goldstein Law Office, PLLC Bruce Brenna, Tumwater Police

Moira Davin, Experience Olympia & Beyond

Brock Le, Fairchild Record Search Jeffery Lippert, Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney's Office Nathan Magee, US Army Travis Matheson, Washington State Patrol Alexis Miller, TwinStar Credit Union Natalie Skovran, Family Support Center of South Sound Chantelle Petrone Marker , Employment Security Department Harry Pickernell, Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation

Robb Dunn, Puget Sound Energy

Zach Powers, The Evergreen State College

JJ Geise, Capital Medical Center

Terri Prather, LOTT Clean Water Alliance

Lynda Green, Scholastic Book Fairs

Ken Rice, Evergreen Christian Community

Wendy Hill, Thurston 911

Tim Rudloff, Thurston County Sheriff's

Communications Pamela Holsinger-Fuchs, Saint Martin's University Ross Jarvis, SCJ Alliance Samantha Jenkins, Express Employment Professionals Shirley Jones, T&S Cleaning, Inc Paul Koleber, Intercity Transit

22 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

Office Rudy Rudolph, Port of Olympia Leslie Shahan, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington Ryan Warner, WA State Department of Transportation Rebekah Zinn, Thurston County Superior Court

thurstonchamber.com

Is your business protected in the event of a disaster?

By Rebekah Finn

W

hen we think about planning for an emergency or natural disaster, many of us stock up on toilet paper, dehydrated food and batteries, all tangibles that we can shop for and set aside for a power outage or a flood that traps us in our home or business. These staples are a great first step, but we need to protect our property, plant and equipment from disaster too, and that involves working with our insurance agent to read the fine print and make sure we’re covered for all contingencies.

Vivian Eason with Thurston County Emergency Management

She says that FEMA is not a first responder. In the 2007 floods, it

explains a misconception that many people have—they believe

took 10 days to get a 'FEMA declared disaster.' The bottom line:

they can count on the Federal Emergency Management Agency

businesses need to be well insured against loss due to a disaster.

(FEMA) to get them back on their feet after a disaster, but that isn’t what they are responsible for. “When the microburst hit

“A lot of businesses didn’t come back from the floods after the

[Lacey, May 2017] a few people lost their homes and federal

2007 Chehalis flood. Flood insurance is expensive, but it can

assistance was not available to them. FEMA’s role is to help local

mean losing everything if you don’t have it,” said Eason.

government, not individuals and businesses.

In order to learn how to navigate the complex world of business "For example, during the 2007 [Chehalis area] floods we had a

insurance and disaster preparedness, we sought advice from

FEMA declared disaster which reimbursed public agencies, but

two local experts, Ben Houk at Nicholson & Associates Insurance

not individuals or businesses,” said Eason.

and Ron Bruchet at GHB Insurance.

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  October 2017 23

representatives, etc.

"Definitely use your agent to help you navigate what is happening. It doesn’t have to be a hopeless feeling,” says Houk.

He adds, “Having a relationship with a local agent who is going through the same thing, who knows where you are and can pronounce the name of the street you’re on, is going to make

Ron Bruchet is president and owner of GHB Insurance, located in Olympia.

Both GHB and Nicholson & Associates agree that the more an organization can prepare ahead of time, the easier the response and recovery is going to be after a disaster.

According to Ben Houk, vice president at Nicholson & Associates, business owners should take a close look at all their risks and assets during their emergency planning process, and then check their insurance policies to make sure they have adequate coverage.

“You really need to talk to your insurance agent, go over your policy and assess those risks,” says Houk.

“Around here, earthquakes are the big deal. For most business owners’ policies, earthquake is not a covered peril. Most of the preferred insurance companies are not writing in earthquake policies anymore. So we have to go to an outside carrier to get an additional earthquake policy or a ‘Difference in Conditions (DIC)’ policy. A DIC includes events such as an earthquake, flood, landslide, or mudflow.”

Ron Bruchet, president and owner of GHB Insurance has similar advice for organizations. His number one tip to prepare for emergencies? “Have a business continuity plan in place,” he said. “Review your policy as part of your preparedness plan, and make a plan for crisis communication.”

In addition to getting the coverage your organization needs, both agents

a huge difference when you and your

Ben Houk is vice president at Nicholson & Associates, located in Olympia. recommend following best practices for risk management. “There are a lot of [risk management] resources we can help you access,” explains Bruchet.

Houk agrees: “Most of the big insurance companies have so much information on their websites. Their risk control is so vast. You can download exactly what you need, or ask your agent to send you something.”

Not only will following best practice guidelines help you avert as much risk as possible, it will also ensure that your business is getting the best rates possible on your insurance policies.

If you’ve followed their advice to prepare, the recovery process once a natural disaster occurs will be as smooth as it possibly can be.

Bruchet goes through the sequence of what to do in the wake of a disaster: “Communication to your team is the first step; have a plan in place for communicating. Then focus on your infrastructure; make sure you can get back to business, get back online and get back in your building. Then contact your agent, file your claim, and get access to the government programs that will help you get back on your feet.”

He adds that business owners should be aware of people preying on others during the time of need, i.e., phony contractors, inspectors and scam artists

organization are in recovery mode.” ●

PREPARE 1. Talk to your insurance agent as part of your emergency preparedness planning.

Assess your risks and assets; make sure you have all the coverage you need.

2. Develop an emergency procedure including a communication plan for ensuring employees are accounted for.

3. Follow best practices for safety and risk management.

(See the American Red Cross Ready Rating, FEMA guidelines, and Ready.gov.)

4. Use technology to ensure easy communication in case of an emergency: 5. Create online accounts for easy access to your insurance claims 6. Sign up for local emergency alerts.

7. Keep your contact lists on your phone or easily accessible via an external server.

8. Set up social media accounts to communicate with your customers.

RESPOND 1. Communicate with your team – make sure everyone is safe.

2. Focus on your infrastructure – make sure you can get back to business.

3. Contact your insurance agent; file your claims, access government assistance programs.

identifying themselves as federal agent

24 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

24 Hour a Day Service

asapbusiness SOLUTIONS The right people, at the right time, with the right equipment, and the right protection,

GUARANTEED!

We are a Staffing Agency Handling temporary to full time employment.

We staff Production, Warehouse, Skilled Trades, Clerical, Manufacturing, Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, & Nursing.

Your Business Staffing Payroll Marketing

3773 Martin Way E., Suite A-107 Tel: (360) 491-4405 Fax: (360) 491-4075

www.asapbiz.com

Banks with sales goals are blinded by their needs.

Our goal is your success.

Honesty.

H onestyy. It’s It s One of our Core Values.

See the rest of our Core Values at

wabizbank.com thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  October 2017 25

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.

SERVING THE SOUTH SOUND AND SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON

WWW.PHILLIPSBURGESSLAW.COM

Special offers... for your employees.

As a business owner, partnering with TwinStar Credit Union gives your employees access to WorkPerks. At no cost to your business, you can provide this program of special moneysaving offers for your employees.

Ask me how your business can participate.

Alexis Miller Business Development Officer 360.923.4450 alexis@TwinStarCU.com

TwinStarCU.com/business

26 • October 2017 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

thurstonchamber.com

3$7+:$<6 72 35263(5,7< $UH \RX KDYLQJ D FKDOOHQJLQJ WLPH ÀQGLQJ WKH VNLOOHG WDOHQW \RXU EXVLQHVV QHHGV" ,QWHUHVWHG LQ VKDULQJ EHVW SUDFWLFHV RU OHDUQLQJ KRZ \RX FDQ LQÁXHQFH DQG EXLOG WKH WDOHQW SLSHOLQHV \RX QHHG" -RLQ XV DW WKH 3DWKZD\V WR 3URVSHULW\ &RQIHUHQFH WR OHDUQ KRZ WR FUHDWH VWUDWHJLHV DQG DFFHVV WRROV WR EXLOG WDOHQW SLSHOLQHV WR ÀOO FXUUHQW DQG IXWXUH MRE YDFDQFLHV

Thursday, October 12, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Yelm Community Center Register today! www.thurstonchamber.com and click on Events

360.456.4999

venablespestmanagement.com info@venablespest.com

TRUSTED BY THOUSANDS Venables Pest Management is a locally owned and operated company using pet-friendly, professional pest management solutions for ants, termites, mice, beetles, spiders, bed bugs, yellow jackets and rats. We also offer commercial and residential maintenance services and real estate inspections. Give us a call today.

thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  October 2017 27

PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427