Thurston County Chamber of Commerce VOICE Magazine Sept/Oct 2013 Edition

SEPT/OCT 2013

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

M A G A Z I N E

Renaissance at the Port of Olympia PAGE 12

Meet Dale Peinecke: Commissioner of Employment Security

PAGE 9

B UI LDI NG COMMUNITY PROSPERITY FOR OVER 135 YEARS

CONTENTS

CALENDAR

Page 3 .................... President’s Column: Work-Integrated Learning Page 3..........................................................................Save the Date!

Page 4 .... Chair’s Column: Now is the Time to Start Small Business Page 5 ........... Forum: Growing Your Business in the New Economy Page 6 ............. Leadership Matters! Introducing LTC Class of 2014 Page 9.. ........................Business Workforce Needs: Priority at ESD Page 10 ...............................................................Networking Events

September 3 Morning Mixxer - 7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m. - ManorCare of Lacey 4524 Intelco Loop SE, Lacey September 6 Foofaraw 2013 - 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. - Island Home Check-In at Olympia Yacht Club, 201 Simmons St. September 11 Forum - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Saint Martin’s Norman Worthington Conference Center. Topic: “Growing Your Business in the New Economy” September 19 Business After Hours - 5:30-7:30 p.m. - Red Lion Hotel, Olympia 2300 Evergreen Park Dr. SW, Olympia

Page 12 ............... Cover Story: Renaissance at the Port of Olympia Page 16 ......................... Business Showcase & Procurement Expo.

October 1 Morning Mixxer - 7:30-8:30 a.m. - Firs Retirement 426 Lilly Rd NE, Olympia

Page 20 .................... Boss of the Year: Nominations Now Accepted Page 23 ................................................... Get Ready to Hit the Trail!

Copyright © 2007 Thurston County Chamber ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Published bimonthly by the Thurston County Chamber.

809 Legion Way P.O. Box 1427 Olympia, WA 98507

October 9 Forum - 11:30 a.m. -1 p.m. - Saint Martin’s Norman Worthington Conference Center. Topic: “Best Practices in Developing Public Works Bid Documents and RFPs/RFQs.” October 9 Business Showcase & Procurement Expo - 10 a.m. -4 p.m. - Saint Martin’s University Marcus Pavilion, Lacey.

www.thurstonchamber.com info@thurstonchamber.com 360.357.3362

October 17 Business After Hours - 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. - Bite of Business After Hours

Join the conversation online at facebook.com/ThurstonCountyChamber.

These events require pre-registration at www.thurstonchamber.com

BUILDING COMMUNITY PROSPERITY FOR OVER 135 YEARS Diamond Investors:

Platinum Investors

Gold Investors

Capital Medical Center • The Creative Office GCI Ad Agency • GHB Insurance Heritage Bank • Key Bank Lucky Eagle Casino Mills & Mills Funeral Home & Memorial Park Morningside • O BEE Credit Union TwinStar Credit Union Washington Business Bank Williams Group Marketing + Design

Alternative Marketing Connections Columbia Bank • First Citizens Bank Express Employment Professionals Great Wolf Lodge • Jessica Jensen Law PS LOTT Alliance • Nisqually Red Wind Casino Pardiman Productions • Providence St. Peter Hospital • Puget Sound Energy Red Lion Hotel Olympia • Saint Martin’s University SCJ Alliance • Web-Sites-For-Less.com • Xerox

CHAMBER BOARD & STAFF Executive Officers Mike Marohn, Chair Morgan Stanley Ron Bruchet, Chair Elect GHB Insurance Mariella Cummings, Vice Chair Physicians of SW WA Neil Woody, Treasurer McSwain & Company PS Reid Bates, Past Chair Express Employment Professionals

Board of Trustees

Chamber Staff

David Schaffert, President/CEO Jim Geist, Capital Medical Center Perry Hanchey, Diamond Technology Inc. Sytease Geib, VP Workforce Development Alisha Blain, Events Coordinator George Le Masurier, The Olympian Marny Bright, Member Services Cheryl Selby, Vivala Debbie Burk, Workforce Development Jerald Shaw, Anchor Bank Patti Grant, Leadership Thurston County Kevin Stormans, Stormans Inc. Beth Johnson, Member Services Sandi Wilson, Thurston First Bank Pam Singleton, Finance Officer Matthew Sult, Business Development, Camo Editor: David Schaffert to Commerce Melissa Wanmer, Admin. Assistant Layout & Design: Natasha Ashenhurst Printing: ABC Printing

Michael Cade, Thurston EDC Jean Carr, SCJ Alliance Casey Cochrane Jessica Coen, Xerox Dick Cvitanich, Olympia School District Jeff Davis, Port of Olympia Cheryl Fambles, PAC Mountain Workforce Development Council

2 • Sept/Oct 2013 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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Message from Your Chamber President

Job Pathways Critical to Youth Success

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

I

nternships, mentorships, and other job pathways are critical to the success of youth. This is especially true in a time of high youth unemployment and an economy in transition.

We have known this for years, if not by case or scientific studies, but by an innate understanding that hands-on work experience translates into an exceptional foundation for success in life and employment.

There is mounting evidence that suggests that youth engaged in work-integrated learning have better career readiness skills including: increased knowledge of specific occupational skills and workplace settings; an established work history and connections with employers that can aid in future job searches; and an understanding of different occupations in order to make informed career choices.

Additionally, work-integrated learning may increase school attendance, decrease dropout rates, reduce school suspensions,

and increase school engagement.

Some studies have found that David Schaffert students who participated in workbased learning were more likely to have success in careers and future education endeavors.

There are benefits to employers too — the opportunity to share the workplace with enthusiastic and motivated youth, the chance to train future talent pools and create a management training opportunity for existing staff.

This fall, the Chamber, in partnership with Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council, will begin the process of developing a model that will create work-integrated learning opportunities within our community, assist business human capital needs while at the same time ensuring youth have the tools to be successful. If you want to be included in the development of a regional work-integrated learning program, please contact me at 360.357.3362. •

Save the Date!

Check out these exciting events organized by the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce.

Business Showcase & Procurement Expo 2013: Connecting Businesses with Buyers! Wednesday, Oct. 9.; Saint Martin’s Marcus Pavilion; Call the Chamber for booth reservations: 360.357.3362. Networking, purchasing, and marketing event for local businesses, and buyers.

Friday, September. 6, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Island Home.

Tickets $65; sponsors yourself and (2) military guests.

Brought to you by:

Bite of Business After Hours Oct. 17.; Indian Summer Golf & Country Club; Chamber members mingle and munch on samples from other local Chamber members. Interested in being a vendor?

Contact Chamber Member Services at 360.357.3362.

Presented by:

Puddle Jump! 5K-10K Run/Walk/Stroll Saturday, Nov. 2.; Chehalis-Western Trail; www.thurstonchamber.com Chamber 5K and 10K. Call the Chamber at 360.357.3362.

Vendor opportunities available.

2014 Distinguished Leader Awards Wednesday, February 26, 2014 5:30 p.m. Reception - 6:30 p.m. Dinner & Program Red Lion Hotel, Olympia Event sponsorships available. Call Patti Grant at 360.357.8515.

More information about upcoming events can be found at www.thurstonchamber.com.

www.thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept/Oct 2013 3

Message from the 2013-14 Board Chair

Now is the Time to Start and Grow Your Small Business

By Mike Marohn, Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor and part owner of 94.5 ROXY

A

ccording to the Small Business Quarterly Bulletin four key measures for small business success are all on the rise: 1. Demand for small business loans. 2. The employment size of start-ups. 3. Employment in small firms 4.

Proprietors’ income.

help start-ups find venture capital.

Understanding how SBA works is the first step towards receiving assistance. The Chamber hosts monthly SBA Loan Seminars.

Mike Marohn

www.thurstonchamber.com

Data clearly shows that small firms are gaining momentum as they rise out of the depths of the economic downturn, and this is true for local businesses as well. According to the Thurston County Vitality Index, four out of four indices are up in the 2nd quarter of 2013, including the Thurston Small Business Index (TSBI).

Not only is the outlook for small business success improving, but the resources available for start-ups are increasing as well, especially in Thurston County.

Starting a small business can be overwhelming, nerve-wracking and one of the most exciting things you’ll ever experience, but you’ll need support. Here are seven Thurston County resources that provide that crucial support, and that I am particularly excited about: 1. The Small Business Incubator: Located at the Chamber, Incubator clients share administrative support, meeting rooms, a kitchen and office equipment. This is a great place to launch your start-up. www.thurstonchamber.com

4. Business to Business: Designed to assist local businesses in finding qualified, pre-screened employees. This free service requires no contractual agreement and emphasizes the needs of employers. www.thurstonchamber.com 5. Economic Development Council’s Small Business Counseling (SBDC): Learn about loan packaging, debt and equity financing, debt restructuring, financial statement analysis, identify ways to improve operational efficiency, financial forecasting, develop business plans, market positioning for small companies, government regulations and business expansion. www.thurstonedc.com

6. Olympia Downtown Association (ODA): The ODA has an Economic Development Committee. The goal of this committee is to strengthen and broaden the economic base of downtown through the development of a business recruitment and retention plan. The ODA also offers what they call the Downtown Academy, a monthly workshop with engaging topics. www.downtownolympia.com

2. Economic Development Council’s Business Resource Center (BRC): The Business Resource Center exists to support business with services and resources, help you accelerate your business learning and planning, and grow your business faster and more successfully. The BRC also hosts several workshops each month to help businesses in all stages of development.

7. West Olympia Business Association (WOBA): WOBA is an organization that supports the goals of the West Olympia business community, offering networking opportunities and advocacy for West Olympia. The WOBA also fosters relationships and improves communications with the city, neighborhoods and citizens.

www.thurstonedc.com

www.westolybusiness.com

3. SBA Loans: The Small Business Administration can help facilitate a loan with a third party lender, guarantee a bond, or

If you are interested in learning more about resources available to small businesses, give the Chamber a call at 360.357.3362. •

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Forum - Wednesday, September 11

Growing Your Business in the New Economy Thurston County Chamber Forum Wednesday, September 11, 11:30 a.m.

Saint Martin’s University Norman Worthington Conference Center

H

ave you been wondering why your business is not doing as well as you had hoped? While most business owners blame the economy, the truth is many businesses are suffering because they continue to implement the same marketing plan while the world is changing around them.

30 years ago, the “yellow pages” were an excellent choice for marketing dollars, but the internet has changed everything. Every Forum medium is Sponsor in constant flux and the potential customers are Robert B. Haase not as easy to Program attract as they once were.

Sponsor Our speaker for this month’s Forum is Robert B. Haase, who will be presenting a portion of his day-long marketing intensive, Growing Your Business in the New Economy. Robert is a local marketing consultant and national seminar presenter who speaks throughout the country helping businesses grow and adapt in “the new economy.” •

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Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept/Oct 2013 5

Leadership Matters!

By Patti Grant

L

eadership Thurston County (LTC) is pleased to welcome the Class of 2014. This is the 20th LTC class and brings the number of people who have participated in the program to over 500. LTC is a community-based leadership development program of the Thurston County Chamber Foundation.

Beginning with the Opening Retreat September 13, participants meet monthly through June to learn about current issues, make community connections, and explore ways to get involved.

The 36 people in this year’s class represent a broad cross-section of the community - large and small businesses, non-profit organizations, public agencies and community volunteers - and include long-time community residents as well as relative newcomers.

Special thanks to LTC Sustaining Trustees, local businesses, community organizations, alumni, and individuals for investing in these future leaders. For additional information, go to www. leadthurstoncounty.com or call 360.357.8515.

Community leaders serving on the Board of Regents oversee LTC curriculum and operations.

Introducing: Leadership Thurston County Class of 2014

Mike Babauta, Olympia Branch Manager, Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County

Andrea Ballard, HR Consultant, Expecting Change Wayne Ballew, Senior Energy Advisor, Puget Sound Energy James Belford, Director, Division Manager, TwinStar Credit Union Jessie Bensley, Executive & Commission Coordinator, Port of Olympia Alisha Blain, Events Coordinator, Thurston County Chamber Dennis Bloom, Planning Manager, Intercity Transit Tim Braniff, Undersheriff, Thurston County Sheriff’s Office Jan Cahill, Revenue & Receipts Coordinator, Port of Olympia Kim Combs, Event & Volunteer Coordinator, Olympia Downtown Association Liz Davis, CEO, Northwest Venture Philanthropy representing Junior League of Olympia Wade Duffy, Building Official/Fire Marshall/Capital Projects Manager, City of Lacey Meg Dwyer, Media Relations Manager, Saint Martin’s University Nick Eisenmann, Business Development Manager, Capitol City Press Meghan Feuk, Laboratory Technician, LOTT Clean Water Alliance Jessica Forsman, Director of Dietary Services, Capital Medical Center Wayne Graham, Deputy Prosecutor, Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office

Bonnie Herrington, City Brand Manager, Communications & Marketing, City of Olympia Roger Horn, Community Volunteer Kasandra Jaquez, Business Banker/VP, Anchor Bank Sandy Kaiser, Media & Community Relations Manager, The Evergreen State College Office of Advancement Robbi Kesler, Attorney, Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation Paul Larsen, Clinic Manager, The Crisis Clinic of Thurston & Mason Counties Donnie Miller, CFO, GCI Ad Agency Kathy Pickernell, Table Games Supervisor, Lucky Eagle Casino Carlos Quiles, Police Lieutenant, City of Tumwater Jessica Rice, Business Developer, Express Employment Professionals Karla Robertson, VP/Branch Manager, Columbia Bank Laurie Schindler, Program Manager, Morningside Amber Smith, Environmental Educator, LOTT Clean Water Alliance Heather Stafford Smith, Human Resources Director, Intercity Transit Ann Sweeney, Director of Catering, Red Lion Hotel of Olympia Aram Wheeler, Financial Services Associate, Heritage Bank, Lacey Branch Caleb White, Regional Store Manager, South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity Stores Kristy Wolf, Assistant Finance Director, City of Tumwater Ramsey Zimmerman, Thurston Energy Program Director, Thurston Economic Development Council

Patti Grant is the Program Coordinator for Leadership Thurston County. Leadership Thurston County is a program of the Thurston County Chamber Foundation and is dedicated to developing informed, skilled and committed community leaders. Contact: 360.357.3362 or ltc@thurstonchamber.com

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Business Workforce Needs: Priority at Employment Security Department (ESD)

By Natasha Ashenhurst

T

wo statements are at the heart of a production management philosophy — first developed and implemented by Toyota Motor Corporation — known as the Lean Production System, or simply “lean”:

First, all work processes are imperfect.

Second, the people best qualified to improve processes are the people who do the work.

According to Peinecke, Inslee wants to implement lean in government. Peinecke is starting by reframing the employment security strategy.

The management process streamlines the production process and decreases the time needed to flow products to the customer, preserving value with less work.

“It is critical in workforce development that we build this into our entire network — our 12 workforce development councils, in collaboration with the community college system, our partners and our staff,” said Peinecke. “We’ve taken our lean principles and have applied it to strategy development.”

What does this have to do with employment security?

Dale Peinecke — nominated by Gov. Jay Inslee to serve as commissioner of the Employment Security Department of Washington State — understands lean principles, having spent his entire career in the private sector.

For the last 15 years, Peinecke has been leading midsize aerospace companies, and most of his Dale Peinecke work was directed at ultimately selling the businesses. Now he is bringing lean to ESD. “In the course of growing those aerospace businesses, we continued to identify skill shortages in the workforce,” said Peinecke. “As a result, I joined the Workforce Development Council of Snohomish County and eventually became board chair. Together, we developed a new strategy which focused on increasing global competitiveness, meeting 100 percent of employer needs and getting 100 percent of job seekers employed. Next, we really engaged business and the community in what we were doing. The results were

tremendous.”

‘Driving common vision and common strategy provides the foundation for collaboration’ At WDCSC, Peinecke implemented the same lean techniques that he used in the aerospace industry, creating and implementing a strong strategy that produced concrete results.

“Our strategy really provided a way for businesses, organizations and community colleges to become focused on a common purpose,” said Peinecke. “That purpose helped people work together to leverage funding sources and to develop these workforce development programs in the community. Driving common vision and common strategy provides the foundation for collaboration.”

Peinecke’s significant experience implementing lean to create more effective businesses, and then his work with WDCSC, drew the attention of industry leaders, workforce development partners and Inslee.

Using lean to reframe the employment security strategy

To develop this new ESD strategy, Peinecke also used another approach called “catch-ball.” Catch-ball is a way to implement policy deployment, engage your team, and ultimately create astonishing results. The process is simple: Communicate — or “toss” — the strategy to invested employee partners, asking, “Does this make sense. Can you envision yourself as part of this?” Then the ball comes back to management, who makes revisions based on employee feedback.

The process goes through additional rounds of feedback and revision until it is a solid plan everyone can commit to.

“Catch-ball has impacted around 2,000 people who work for and with the ESD,” said Peinecke. “The intent of this process is to build collaboration with our employees and partners so we can speed execution in changes that will ultimately increase vitality of businesses that provide quality jobs and opportunities for our workforce.”

One of the most important changes resulting from this process, according to Peinecke, is the focus on business.

Continued on Page 19

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Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept/Oct 2013 9

Networking Events Morning Mixxer

September 3 - 7:30 a.m.

October 1 - 7:30 a.m.

4524 Intelco Loop SE, Lacey

426 Lilly Rd. NE, Olympia

Chef-Prepared Breakfast

Traditional Harvest Breakfast

M

anorCare of Lacey, a shortterm rehabilitation health care center invites you to join this Morning Mixxer for a tantalizing breakfast and an official introduction to the management team. Tours and door prizes will be provided.

Come and meet this dedicated ManorCare of Lacey Team and learn why “Your best way home is through our doors.”

Morning Mixxer Promotional Sponsors

S

ausages, bacon, country potatoes, fruit, cheeses, pastries and our Chef’s Autumn scrambled eggs with featured coffees, tea, juice & mimosas! The Harvest scavenger hunt game prizes will be a flat-screen TV; Thanksgiving turkeys and Autumn floral arrangements! Our new Executive Director Venise Taaffe, as well as The Firs family, will welcome Chamber members with a wonderful breakfast, laughter and great prizes!

Morning Mixxer is the first Tuesday of each month, from 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Locations vary. Includes coffee and pastries. General admission $10; Chamber members $5.

Business After Hours

September 19 - 5:30 p.m.

October 17 - 5:30 p.m.

Indian Summer Golf & Country Club

2300 Evergreen Park Dr. SW, Olympia

Business after hours on the hill

Bite of Business After Hours: Olympia’s Food Event

C

ome experience the Red Lion Hotel!

S

hare an evening of networking while experiencing the culinary diversity available in Thurston County.

Surprises around every corner.

Sure to find: Food, cocktails, fun.

You will see the Red Lion Hotel and ALL it has to offer!

Curious? Join us for this Business After Hours and experience a fun evening at Olympia’s Red Lion Hotel, conveniently located on 12 lush acres in the heart of Olympia. Guests will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere created outside by the wooded surroundings and inside by the beautiful lobby and fireplace.

Business After Hours Promotional Sponsors 10 Sept/Oct 2013 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

Vendors will provide samples of their latest and greatest menu options. Attendees will vote on: Most Creative, Best Display/ Presentation and Best Taste.

Business After Hours is the third Thursday of each month, from 5:307:30 p.m. Locations vary. General admission $20; Chamber members $10. www.thurstonchamber.com

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Jim ext. 4495

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept/Oct 2013 11

Renaissance at the Port of Olympia

By Natasha Ashenhurst

I

t is a common sight during the school year: Yellow buses drive through the security gates and out onto the Port Peninsula. Children — wearing hard hats and orange safety vests — receive a guided tour of the Port’s marine terminal and learn about international shipping, global trade, the Port’s economic value in the community, as well as the history of Olympia’s waterfront.

Tour groups stand on the dock as vessels, barges and trains move cargo, and they stand beneath the towering cranes and other equipment we often view from afar.

The Port tour is a visual representation of what we think of when we hear the words “Port of Olympia,” but the Port is much more than massive piles of logs, cargo ships and container cranes — it is Swantown Marina, the East Bay District, Olympia Regional Airport, New Market Industrial Campus, and the Tumwater Town Center. The Port’s impact can be felt beyond Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater, as far as Yelm, Rainier,

Rochester/Grand Mound, Tenino and Bucoda.

The story of the transformation of the Olympia waterfront — from industrial to marine, from mills to public plazas, and contaminated acreage to LOTT Clean Water Alliance and Hands On Children’s Museum — mirrors the economic transformation and expansion of the Port.

The story of renewal is also the story of the Port continuously seeking a balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship. It is a story that deserves celebration and recognition.

“The Port of Olympia is experiencing a renaissance that is impacting all of Thurston County, and it is exciting to watch,” said David Schaffert, president and CEO of the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce.

Small business owners understand the impact of a thriving Port and revitalized waterfront, and their relationships with the Port have had an impact on the Port’s renewal. Every year, you’ll find Jeanne Carras — owner of Bonaventure Shoes — at a dinner promoting the partnership between the Port of Olympia and the Olympia Downtown Association.

Sand in the City, 2011: Children have the opportunity to get up close to timber operations at Port of Olympia exhibit.

12 •Sept/Oct 2013 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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“The Port is a gateway to downtown and downtown is the heart of our county,” said Carras. “A thriving downtown core is really important for Thurston County, therefore we have to meet and have open communication. We sit, talk and build relationships.”

Olympia Downtown Association Executive Director Connie Lorenz agrees.

“Boaters visiting Swantown spend, on average, $180 per day in Olympia. If we can increase the number of ships that come in, then those boaters and workers will go out into the community and spend money.”

-Alex Smith, environmental programs director at the Port.

Successful renewal and economic development in the region requires a strategy. In November 2012, the Port adopted a new plan called “Vision 2025.”

“Vision 2025 is our road map and it really holds us accountable to specific targets and how we will accomplish them,” said Port of Olympia Executive Director Ed Galligan.

The plan outlines nine targets to hit by 2025: Dredging and cleaning lower Budd Inlet; increasing rail activity; revitalizing the East Bay District; developing Swantown District; developing Tumwater properties; investing more in the Small City Fund program; reducing the Port’s carbon emissions; and creating jobs. All this while increasing public awareness of the Port. www.thurstonchamber.com

“Ultimately dredging and clean-up help the health of the bay, which impacts marine traffic,” said Alex Smith, environmental programs director at the Port. “The more successful the Port is, the more successful the economy will be.

“For example, we know that boaters visiting Swantown spend, on average, $180 per day in Olympia. If we can increase the number of ships that come in, then those boaters and workers will go out into the community and spend money.”

“The Port creates jobs and advocates for the good of the community, as well as preserving the environment,” said Lorenz. “Look what they’ve done to improve property so that it is useful again.

It is not just about timber exports and logs. They’ve done a good job figuring out what role they can play county wide.”

Vision 2025, Balanced by the Three Es: Environment, Earnings and Economic Development

restore needed depths, but it is also an opportunity to clean up contaminated soils.

“The Port is trying to balance what we like to call the ‘Three Es:’ environment, earnings and economic development,” said Galligan. “Each opportunity is evaluated by how it will impact these three areas.”

Overcoming a Legacy of Historical Pollution

In addition to dredging and cleanup, the Port is aggressively working to create a system that cleans stormwater runoff — a challenge that all ports face.

“The Port is regulated on the quality of stormwater that comes from industrial areas. Benchmarks created by the state make this permit the most stringent in the country,” said Smith. “We’ve budgeted $9 million for treatment. We are all trying really hard to reach the benchmarks.”

The Port recognizes that a clean environment is good for business.

Over the past 30 years, contaminated sediment has accumulated in lower Budd Inlet.

This has decreased water depths, making it difficult for boats to navigate and costing the Port shipping and marine traffic. Dredging will

Continued on Page 15 Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept/Oct 2013 13

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Continued from Page 13

Expect Significant Growth Finding the balance between environmental stewardship and economic growth is a priority for the Port.

“We forecast significant growth over the next six months,” said Galligan. “Most is a result of marine terminal traffic, and the cargo that we are importing. We are getting better and better financial results as a result of increased business.

“For example, longshore hours have more than doubled over the last 12 months, from 15,681 hours in 2012 to 35,929 hours in 2013. This more than doubles the people leaving here with money in their pocket, which affects the stevedores, the forest workers and regional businesses — which impacts taxes that cities and counties enjoy.”

Economic Development “As this Port grows we can bring more and more economic benefit to the community,” said Galligan.

“One example is the Small City Fund Program that targets Thurston County cities of 10,000 people or less: Yelm, Rainier, Bucoda and Tenino. It is a www.thurstonchamber.com

program intended to stimulate economic development.

“Now in its third year, the Port awarded $10,000 to each city. While that may not seem like a lot of money, the cities are able to leverage those dollars. Bucoda received a state-matching grant, and the Chehalis Tribe gave them matching money as well. They will use this to continue to renovate the Oddfellows hall into a community center that they can rent for weddings and a range of events.

This will help generate revenue and jobs.”

The Small City Program is just one way to promote economic development, county wide.

“It goes back to growth,” said Galligan.

“The more we grow, the more we can benefit the entire county. The folks in Bucoda are just as important as the folks in Olympia. We know that 85 percent of the workforce associated with jobs connected to the Port reside right here within Thurston County, so there is a lot of personal and business income that stays within the county and is recirculated throughout the county’s economy.”

Galligan is adamant that we all have a stake in the success of the Port and encourages engagement and awareness of Port activities.

“This is a public port. In Washington, we have a direct connection to the voters through the Port’s elected board of Commissioners. We want to do all we can to help businesses be successful,” he said.

For example, right now the Port is conducting analysis regarding the installation of a fueling facility at the marina, which would attract more boating tourism. Galligan says, “We want to make it as easy as possible for businesses, community members, and all the jurisdictions in the County to be involved. The more awareness of their Port, the Port of Olympia – the benefits it provides, the challenges it deals with to grow those benefits and the enduring community wealth it provides to the community, the better.”  Natasha Ashenhurst is a writer for the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce VOICE. Contact: 360.357.3362 or nashenhurst@thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept/Oct 2013 15

Business Showcase & Procurement Expo 2013: Connecting Businesses with Buyers Saint Martin’s University Marcus Pavilion, Lacey Wednesday, October 9, 2013: 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

For over 20 years, business owners have flocked to the Business Showcase to network, display products and meet new clients.

Their energy, creativity and investment has created the largest business tradeshow in the South Sound.

PRESENTED BY:

Back by popular demand!

Sign up for SpeedSell by calling the Chamber for the list of decision makers you’ll have the opportunity

Brand NEW to this year’s Business Showcase is Purchasers’ Row -- an opportunity for buyers at government agencies and larger businesses.

to meet. The more time slots you purchase, and the sooner you register, the more likely you will get in front of

Purchasing representatives from local government

your top prospects. When you check

and large businesses will staff information booths

in at SpeedSell, you will be given your

and vendors have the opportunity to stop at each

schedule with your appointment times.

booth making new contacts, networking with current

Arrive early to ensure you have the

customers, and learning more about the products

most up to date information.

and services these agencies need and want.

PURCHASERS’ ROW BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

BUSINESS SHOWCASE IS A PROGRAM OF:

To purchase a booth, contact: Alisha Blain, Events Coordinator Thurston County Chamber 360.357.3362 Events@thurstonchamber.com

16 Sept/Oct 2013 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

www.thurstonchamber.com

Welcome the Chamber’s New Members from June and July Affordable Billings Mary Bearden

Stacey Gracen Design

www.affordablebillings.com Billing Service

www.staceygracen.com

Aflac - Barbara Gagner Barbara Gagner Insurance

Aslan Healing Arts Tressa Wood

www.aslanhealing.com Alternative Health Care

Law Offices of Harold Carr, P.S. Michael Montgomery

www.haroldcarrattorney.com Attorneys

Lowe’s - Lacey Kimberly Cook www.lowes.com

Building Materials

The Olympia Furniture Company Eddie Nelson

www.olyfurnco.com Furniture - Retail & Custom

Stacey Gracen

ESD story, Continued from Page 9

“At the end of the day it is simple: Business having the skilled workforce that you need and people having jobs” -Dale Peinecke

“Employers provide jobs for the workforce that we are developing.

Over the coming years, we will spend significant efforts to engage business — large and small — in our work as the end customer for what we do.”

Peinecke’s priority is to focus on what business needs are today, and then hear from business about what their workforce needs are tomorrow.

Graphic Designers

Tactile Consulting Kari Pettibone

www.tactileconsulting.com Consultants

Tatiana Dominique Stewart, Nail Technician

“I was in a WorkSource center last week. Every time someone gets a job, they ring a bell and the staff applaud and celebrate that success — our citizens getting quality jobs, and our businesses being able to grow as a result of having the right workforce,” said Peinecke. “At the end of the day it is simple: Business having the skilled workforce that you need and people having jobs.” Natasha Ashenhurst is a writer for the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce VOICE. Contact: 360.357.3362 or nashenhurst@thurstonchamber.com

Tatiana Stewart

www.belleviesalonandwellness.com Nail Salons

Willamette Dental Group - Olympia

Forum - Wednesday, October 9

www.willamettedental.com

Learn How to Land a Government Contract at Forum Workshop

Amy Wolff

Dentists & Orthodontists

Willamette Dental Group - Tumwater Terri Luther

www.willamettedental.com Dentists & Orthodontists

Yellow Cab Taxi Omar Ahmed

www.yellowcabnw.com Transportation

Thurston County Chamber Forum Wednesday, October 9, 11:30 a.m.

Saint Martin’s University Norman Worthington Conference Center

C

omplementing the Business Showcase & Procurement Expo theme of “Connecting Businesses with Buyers”, the October 9 Forum will feature government contracting stars right here in our backyard.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with buyers or local businesses!

To register, or for more information about this event, visit the Chamber’s website at www.thurstonchamber.com or call 360.357.3362.

www.thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept/Oct 2013 19

Now Seeking Nominations for Boss of the Year Boss of the Year Recognizes Exceptional Leadership in the Workplace

T

he fourth annual Boss of the Year designation, sponsored by the Thurston County Chamber and Express Employment Professionals will be presented at the December 11 Forum.

Criteria is based on exceptional leadership in the workplace through innovation, communication, vision, execution, ethics, service and/or knowledge.

Saint Martin’s University business students will again play a key role in the selection process, interviewing finalists and gathering data for the committee.

Martin’s School of Business, states,

Richard Beer, Ph.D., and Dean of Saint

by visiting the Chamber’s website at

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to meet with exceptional business leaders in the community and learn more about what truly defines leadership in the workplace.” Nomination forms and more information can be found www.thurstonchamber.com

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20 Sept/Oct 2013 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

www.thurstonchamber.com

www.thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept/Oct 2013 21

22 Sept/Oct 2013 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

www.thurstonchamber.com

Get Ready to Hit the Trail n your mark...get set...PUDDLE JUMP! Join us for the fourth annual Puddle Jump 5k/10k run/walk on Saturday, November 2 along the Chehalis-Western Trail.

O

bag and mingle with the vendors at the Runner’s Expo.

Don’t love to run? Walking is ok too. Our 5k/10k run/walk/stroll is open to everyone - strollers, wheelchairs, and bring Fido too! This is a family friendly event - all ages are welcome!

Admission is $25 for early registration (by October 1) and $35 after that cut-off date. All students, military and military dependents receive a $5 discount.

Registration and check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. at the 67th Avenue Trail head (Horizon Elementary) where participants will pick up their registration packet, t-shirt and gift

You can also stop by the Chamber on Friday, November 1 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to pick up your items.

Puddle Jump!

Saturday, November 2, 2013 Chehalis Western Trail 7:30 a.m Registration/Check-In 9:00 a.m. Puddle Jump Start 10:30 a.m. Awards Ceremony 7:30 - 11:30 a.m. Runner’s Expo

To reserve your participant number, join a non-profit fundraising team, or learn about vendor and sponsorship opportunities visit www.thurstonchamber.com and click on Puddle Jump or call the Chamber at 360.357.3362.

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www.thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE ď Ź Sept/Oct 2013 ď Źď€ 23

PO BOX 1427 Olympia, WA 98507-1427

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