September/October 2015 VOICE Magazine

SEPT/OCT 2015

THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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The center for business & innovation: Catalyst for High Growth, High Wage Jobs See page 14

STARTUP PLAYBOOK: Mud Bay's Lars & Marisa Wulff See page 4

B UI LDI NG COMMUNITY PROSPERITY FOR 140 YEARS

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CONTENTS

CALENDAR

Page 3 .............................................................Vision in Action

September 1

Page 4 ....Startup Playbook: Marisa & Lars Wulff of Mud Bay

Morning Mixxer - 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. - Titus Will 2425 Carriage Loop SW, Olympia.

Page 6 & 7 ..................................................Caught in the Lens

September 3

Page 8 ....Criminal Justice Reform Topic of September Forum

Young Professionals Network - 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Oly Underground, 109 Legion Way SW, Olympia.

Page 10.......................................................Networking Events

September 9

Page 12 .............Cities Report Positive Outcome from Session

Forum - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Red Lion Hotel Olympia Topic: Criminal Justice Reform.

Page 14 ......................The Center for Business and Innovation

September 17

Page 17.....Port Commissioner Race Debate at October Forum

Business After Hours - 5:30 p.m.- Regus 400 Union Ave. SE, Ste. 200 Olympia.

Page 17.............................LTC Class of 2016 Takes the Stage!

October 1

Page 19...............................New Members from June and July

Young Professionals Network - 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Top Rung Brewing, 8343 Hogum Bay Ln. NE, Lacey.

Page 21.......Meet John Bash, Tumwater's New Superintendent

October 6

Page 23...................B&E Committee is Shaping Public Policy

Morning Mixxer - 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. - Best Western Plus Inn & Suites, 18326 Quinault Drive NE Lacey.

Page 25....Young Professionals Gain Momentum & Add Buzz

October 14

Copyright © 2007 Thurston County Chamber ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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

Published bimonthly by the Thurston County Chamber.

Forum - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Red Lion Hotel Olympia Topic: Meet the Candidates

October 15 Business After Hours - 5:30 p.m.- Bite of Business Red Lion Olympia, 2300 Evergreen Park Dr, Olympia.

www.thurstonchamber.com info@thurstonchamber.com 360.357.3362

October 22

Join the conversation online at facebook.com/ThurstonCountyChamber.

South Sound Showcase - 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Saint Martin's University Marcus Pavilion These events require pre-registration at www.thurstonchamber.com

BUILDING COMMUNITY PROSPERITY FOR 140 YEARS Diamond Investors:

Anchor Bank Heritage Bank Phillips Burgess Physicians of Southwest Washington Port of Olympia Versoria Executive Officers Mariella Cummings, Chair Physicians of Southwest WA Jessica Coen, Chair Elect Xerox Company Drew Phillips, Vice Chair FORMA Construction Neil Woody, Treasurer McSwain & Company P.S. Ron Bruchet, Past Chair GHB Insurance

Platinum Investors

Capital Medical Center FORMA Construction Great Wolf Lodge • KeyBank Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel Mills & Mills Funeral Home & Memorial Park • Morningside Olympia Orthopaedic Associates TwinStar Credit Union Washington Business Bank Xerox

CHAMBER BOARD & STAFF Board of Trustees

George Barner, Port of Olympia

Michael Cade, Thurston EDC David Cullen, David D. Cullen Dick Cvitanich, Olympia School District

Bryan McConaughy, Puget Sound Energy Ben Shah, Olympia Orthopaedics Kevin Stormans, Stormans Inc. Ann Sweeney, Lemay - America's Car Museum

Cheryl Fambles, PAC Mountain Workforce Faith Trimble, The Athena Group Development Council Perry Hanchey, Diamond Technology Innovations Elyse Villanueva, Heritage Bank Joanna West, Washington Business Bank Joseph Lanham, Wells Fargo Mike Williams, Tags Awards And Specialties

Editor: David Schaffert Layout & Design: Natasha Ashenhurst of Mosaic Marketing Studio VOICE Intern: Rory Zuagg Printing: Print NW Cover Photo: Center for Business & Innovation 2 • Sept./Oct. 2015 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

Gold Investors

America's Credit Union • Cabinets by Trivonna Columbia Bank • Community Youth Services The Creative Office Express Employment Professionals First Citizens Bank • GHB Insurance Hometown Property Management Jessica Jensen Law PS Nisqually Red Wind Casino Olympia Furniture Company Pardiman Productions Providence St. Peter Hospital • Puget Sound Energy Red Lion Hotel Olympia • Saint Martin’s University SCJ Alliance • TAGS • The Governor Hotel

Chamber Staff

David Schaffert, President/CEO Sytease Geib, VP Workforce Development Marny Bright, VP Member Services Laurie Bjerke, Admin. Assistant Alisha Blain, Events Coordinator Christina Bower, Education/Youth Initiatives Debbie Burk, Workforce Development Ryan Dahlstrom, Workforce Development Lesona Hartman, Workforce Development Beth Johnson, Member Services Helaina Kennedy, Workforce Development Laura Klem, Executive Administrative Support Judy Reynolds, LeadershipThurston County Mike Spezia, Workforce Development Martha Wagner, Member Services Michele Winn, Camo2Commerce www.thurstonchamber.com

Vision in Action

By David Schaffert, Thurston County Chamber President/CEO

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ow does a community take an idea that will create economic and community development and bring it to fruition?

and to serve as a catalyst for high wage sector growth.

Representatives from this group decided It isn’t a magic trick or sleight of hand, but rather having the to seek national best practices, and imagination to create a vision and turn it proceeded to visit How does a community into something tangible. It takes incredible Indian River State David Schaffert take an idea that will create College in Fort Pierce, leadership and the willingness to put reputations on the line—and finances at economic and community Fla., and the college’s Brown Center for stake. development and bring it to Innovation.

fruition?

It isn’t a magic trick or sleight of hand, but rather having the imagination to create a vision and turn it into something tangible. It takes incredible leadership As we look ahead to the tremendous benefit and the willingness to put this center will have on Thurston County, I reputations on the line—and believe it is important we examine how the finances at stake.

This month, we are celebrating the opening of The Center for Business and Innovation, a partnership between the Thurston County Economic Development Council (EDC) and South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC).

vision for The Center became a reality, and celebrate the leadership that moved this project from a great idea into a force for change.

The spark that set the project in motion occurred in the fall of 2012, when SPSCC invited Dr. Kevin Cooper from Florida’s Indian River State College to keynote their fall gala. His talk addressed the impact that education has on economic development and the building of a quality community. Cooper referenced the work of the recently completed “Sustainable Economy” chapter of the Thurston Regional Planning Council’s sustainable communities project, and the Pacific Mountain Workforce Board’s economic cluster study. Cooper cited both as foundational work to begin the process of wealth creation that supports a long-term economic development model that supports business growth, entrepreneurial development and innovation.

A few months later, SPSCC convened a work session—consisting of representatives from SPSCC, the EDC, Thurston County Chamber, the City of Lacey, Evergreen State College and Saint Martin’s University—to discuss the feasibility and opportunity of creating an entrepreneurial center that promotes innovation,

www.thurstonchamber.com

After the group returned, they launched a series of community meetings with business organizations, education, military, finance sector and social services. The charrette process resulted in two basic directives: The Center would be supported and valued by the community if it focused on high-value, highwage innovation within the private sector, and the entrepreneur center could successfully be the home of joint—but collaborative— economic development efforts and career and technical training provided by SPSCC. By the end of 2013, SPSCC—through Washington State Enterprise Services—released a request for quotation for redevelopment of the identified Rowe Six Property. By early 2014, the redevelopment of the facility was underway.

This month, we are getting ready to celebrate its grand opening.

From the chronology it is easy to see how leadership, information and action create opportunity. The Center—though conceived initially by a few—quickly became a community endeavor that reflects the needs of community and business development.

The Center also demonstrates the commitment of the principal partners—the EDC and SPSCC—to take risks, to move quickly on an opportunity, remain inclusive in developing vision with community and extraordinary leadership to move the project from a vision into action made visible. ● Thank you, Michael Cade, for supplying the time line of events.

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept./Oct. 2015 3

STARTUP PLAYBOOK: Marisa and Lars Wulff & Mud Bay

By Natasha Ashenhurst

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n 1993 Lars and Marisa Wulff jumped onto a sinking ship—a farm supply store located on the west side of Olympia, owned by their mother, which was losing close to $50,000 a year. Together they turned the business around, and today Mud Bay has 34 locations throughout the Pacific Northwest. Mud Bay has had a consistent growth rate of about 20 percent per year and was recently named "2015 Retailer of the Year" by Pet Business Magazine.

This is the sixth article in our Startup Playbook series, where we examine Thurston County startups—and the entrepreneurs behind them—in order to learn what’s working and what’s not, and search for a pattern to success. Here’s Marisa and Lars’ story.

In 1993 Marisa Wulff had recently returned from Holland, where she had finished an MBA. Her brother Lars was trying to finish writing a novel. Their mother, Elsa, owned a small farm supply store on Olympia’s Mud Bay Road that wasn’t doing well, so they decided to join the business and turn it around.

“Our intent was to get the store in the

black, sell it and move on,” said Marisa, Co-CEO of Mud Bay. “What we didn’t realize is that we would have so much fun working together and that the business actually might be worth keeping.”

When Lars and Marisa joined the store, it was selling a little bit of everything under the banner of ‘farm store’, from oysters to baby chicks, folk art to barbed wire. Slowly they grew the business by dropping inventory categories and focusing on the part of the business they had the most interest in—natural food and supplies for dogs and cats.

“We’ve learned a few key lessons—don’t

try to be everything to everybody; do what you are passionate about; and do it really well. Also, we had to learn to let go of perfectionism which is a Wulff family trait. It was a hard thing to get away from, but we quickly realized that if you focus on perfectionism, the competition leaves you in the dust,” said Marisa.

Sales grew, but naysayers told them selling natural food for dogs and cats would only work in the Westside neighborhood of Olympia, home to the Evergreen State College and the Olympia Food Co-op, and not to think about expanding. Lars and Marisa believed otherwise.

Continued on page 26 Photo on left: Mud Bay's Olympia location on Harrison is less than a mile from the original feed store. Photo on right, courtesy of Mud Bay, is Lars and Marisa Wulff taken at the Retailer of the Year dinner.

4 • Sept./Oct. 2015 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

www.thurstonchamber.com

MAMMO MIA! If you’re a woman age 40 or older, remember to get an annual mammogram.

Having a regular mammography screening can be a valuable, lifesaving tool in identifying breast cancers early, when they are localized and treatment plans are most successful. In fact, when breast cancer is detected in its early stages, the American Cancer Society reports a five-year survival rate of 98 percent! So why wait? Talk to your doctor and call us today to schedule a screening!

Schedule your screening today!

Call 360-704-4750.

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.

©2015 BCI

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www.thurstonchamber.com

Terry Taylor, MA, MCC

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept./Oct. 2015 5

2015

Caught in the Lens...

ROAD CHALLENGE

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Grab your hat and boots, The Morningside Ride is going Cowboy!

Our popular road rally event that has you looking for clues, filling out an answer sheet, and stopping at a couple check points where you can earn extra points has a western theme this year!

Dressing the part adds to the fun, but whether you come as yourself or come as the Lone Ranger, do come to the Best Little Fundraiser West of the Mississippi!

7KH 5LGH HQGV ZLWK D ÀQLVK OLQH SDUW\ WKDW LQFOXGHV D 7H[DV VW\OH %%4 DQG DZDUGV IRU EHVW WHDPV DQG EHVW FRVWXPHV PRESENTING SPONSORS

The Ride supports Morningside’s High School Transition Program, helping young people with disabilities transition to jobs through coaching, internships, and job placement during their final year of high school.

6 • Sept./Oct. 2015 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

&RVW RI (YHQW

$80 per 2-Person Team $30 per Additional Adult Passenger $25 Texas-style BBQ ONLY $10 Meal under 12 years Want to sign up online?

Go to morningsideservices.com

www.thurstonchamber.com

Photos taken during June, July and August 2015 at the following events: June Business After Hours at the Washington Center, July Morning Mixxer at Liberty Mutual, July Business After Hours at Cabinets by Trivonna, July Forum, August Morning Mixxer at the Firs, Ribbon Cutting at SafePlace, Ribbon Cutting at Edward Jones and August Forum.

WHERE BUSINESS CONNECTS. Successful businesses don’t always know each other. But they do know Anchor Bank.

Let’s get to know each other.

Anchor Bank helps local business owners maintain and grow their business so local people, including us, can get the things we need.

A C C E S S | A D V I C E | E V E R Y D AY S O L U T I O N S www.thurstonchamber.com

anchor n etbank.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept./Oct. 2015 7

Prosecuting Attorney to Keynote Forum Addressing Criminal Justice Reform Efforts

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effort to form Monarch Children’s Justice and Advocacy Center, an organization which provides coordinated services to child victims of abuse and neglect.

Tunheim received his undergraduate degree in physics from South Dakota State University, and his law degree from the University of Puget Sound School of Law (now Seattle University School of Law). While in law school, he joined the Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office as a legal intern.

Tunheim was named a “21st Century Leader”

by The Olympian. He was also presented with the “Champions for Kids” award from Together! in 2008, the Thurston Community Network’s “Making a Difference in the Life of a Child” award in 2009, and most recently the “Local Hero Award” from the Washington State Bar Association. Jon and his wife Marcia have four active sons.

ark your calendar for the Chamber's September Forum on Wednesday, September 9. Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney Jon Tunheim will deliver the keynote address. His remarks will focus on the topic of Criminal Justice Reform.

After graduating from law school, Tunheim Forum begins at 11:30 a.m. at the Red Lion became a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Hotel Olympia. Forum includes lunch and is for Thurston County in 1990 and served $35 for general admission, $25 for prepaid the office most recently as Chief Deputy Chamber members and $30 for members since 2003. During his career, Tunheim has at the door. Reservations are strongly Jon Tunheim personally prosecuted cases involving charges advised. Make your reservation today at www. ranging from drug possession to murder, and specializing in thurstonchamber.com. the prosecution of sexual assault, domestic violence and crimes Thank you to our sponsors, United Way, Anonymously Yours against children. As a Deputy Prosecutor, he was a leader in the Foundation and Saint Martin's University. ●

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.

8 • Sept./Oct. 2015 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

www.thurstonchamber.com

MA R K YOUR C A L E N DAR! September 1 - 7:30 a a.m. m 2425 Carriage Loop SW., Olympia

OCTOBER 6 - 7:30 a.m. am 8326 Quinault Drive NE, Lacey

Morning Mixxer

Morning Mixxer

The Titus-Will family would love to host you for breakfast at the Chamber’s September Morning Mixxer. Don’t miss this networking opportunity to mix and mingle and make new business contacts.

Enjoy breakfast goodies and a cup of Joe and meet some wonderful members of our TitusWill team. We look forward to welcoming you all. ●

In the spirit of hospitality, please join the Best Western Plus Lacey Inn & Suites for an hour of relaxed networking. The top rated Facility on Trip Advisor will offer tours of the facility and door Prizes while you partake in their spectacular continental breakfast. Check in time: 7:30 am! ●

September 3 - 5:30 p.m.

October 1 - 5:30 p.m.

109 Legion Way SW Olympia

8343 Hogum Bay Ln. NE, Ste. E, Lacey

Young Professionals Network

Young Professionals Network

Oly Underground will be our host this month! Admission is FREE, Chamber membership not required. Get ready to make awesome new connections, and be sure to bring a friend! The Thurston Chamber YPN is a great place to interact with new, younger business professionals in a lowpressure environment. Bring plenty of business cards and a smile, and you're set to enjoy a fantastic evening of networking! ●

Top Rung Brewing Co. will be our host this month! Admission is FREE, Chamber membership not required. Get ready to make awesome new connections, and be sure to bring a friend! The Thurston Chamber YPN is a great place to interact with new, younger business professionals in a low-pressure environment.

Bring plenty of business cards and a smile, and you're set to enjoy a fantastic evening of networking! ●

September 17 - 5:30 p.m.

400 Union Ave. SE, Ste. 200, Olympia

October 15 - 5:30 p.m.

2300 Evergreen Park Dr SW, Olympia

Business After Hours

BITE OF Business After Hours!

Join us for Business After Hours, at Regus’ new office space in the old WSECU bank building. We’ll be serving appetizers, beer and wine in the boardroom—which used to be the bank’s vault!

Share an evening of networking at the Red Lion Hotel Olympia while experiencing the culinary diversity available in Thurston County!

Vendors will provide samples of their latest and greatest holiday menu options. Attendees will vote on: Most Creative, Best Display/ Presentation & Best Taste. A few of the businesses participating this year are Budd Bay Café/River's Edge, Lucky Lunchbox, Occasions Catering and Casa Mia. ●

Our turn-key office suites require no long-term leases, up-front capital or build-out costs. They also include phones, internet, professional meeting rooms, video conferencing, a receptionist and in-house IT support! Meet local professionals and celebrate our newlyopened center with us! ●

Morning Mixxer sponsored by Mixx 96 FM and Anchor Bank and is the first Tuesday of each month, from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Locations vary. Includes coffee and pastries. Admission is FREE. Business After Hours is sponsored by 94.5 ROXY and Heritage Bank and is the third Thursday of each month. Locations vary. Admission is free.

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

10 • Sept./Oct. 2015 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

www.thurstonchamber.com

Olympia, Tumwater and Lacey Report Mostly Positive Outcome from TripleOvertime Legislative Session

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n July 10, the 65th legislative session adjourned in triple overtime.

The Thurston County Chamber of Commerce had the chance to speak with Olympia City Manager Steve Hall, Tumwater City Manager John Doan and Lacey City Manager Scott Spence, about the financial impact of the session on the cities.

They reported most issues of direct importance were resolved in a positive way, including: •

Retention of current liquor profit sharing.

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$6 million in marijuana excise tax revenues to cities and counties per year.

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Fully funded Fire Insurance Premium Tax.

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Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program funded at $55 million, with an additional $46 million in WWRP

projects funded elsewhere in the budget through recreation grants.

This represents a $101 million total investment –the highest since 2007—and is a great sign to cities who will seek this funding in the future.

That the legislature did not provide funding for any new loans through the Public Works Trust Fund — a fund critical to medium and small-sized cities’ ability to fund public works projects –is concerning.

A $16.3 billion transportation package was passed that includes an $11.9 cents per gallon gas tax that will be implemented over the next two years.

Some additional highlights of the transportation package include: •

Authority provided to Transportation Benefit District governing boards to raise the vehicle fee to $40 if a fee of $20 has been in place for two years.

It also conveys authority up to $50 if a fee of $40 has been in place for

two years.

•

$7.6 million is included for the Mottman Road Pedestrian and Street Improvements -- a joint Olympia/ Tumwater project. However, funding is not provided until the 2023-25 and 2025-27 biennia.

•

Continued funding for the Transportation Improvement Board, Safe Routes to Schools, and bicycle and pedestrian grant programs.

Capital dollars received by the City of Olympia: •

The City of Olympia received $950,000 for the bulkhead repairs at Percival Landing. Although the City requested a more flexible appropriation that could be used on Percival Landing, Capitol Center Building or East Bay shoreline repairs, the final budget earmarked funding specifically for Percival Landing. The estimate for the bulkhead repairs is $2.7 million, so

Photo above from Legislative Support Services Photo Department: Gov. Jay Inslee signs Senate Bills 5987 (Relating to transportation revenue); 5988 (Relating to additive transportation funding and appropriations); and 5989 (Relating to authorizing bonds for transportation funding), during a ceremony at the University of Washington’s Conibear Shellhouse in Seattle, July 15, 2015.

12 • Sept./Oct. 2015 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

www.thurstonchamber.com

City staff will work on a plan to fund the balance of the project.

•

Funding for the demolition and construction of the 1063 Building was also included in the Capital Budget. In addition to getting a new, modern building along Capitol Way entering Downtown, we will realize approximately $500,000 or more in permit fees and revenues from construction, as well as the associated sales tax generated from construction.

All in all, the city agrees that this past session was positive. All current stateshared revenues, including the Fire Insurance Premium Tax, remained intact.

They obtained some funding from the marijuana excise tax, the 1063 Building is moving forward, and they obtained $950,000 for Percival Landing.

Capital Dollars Received by the City of Tumwater: The State Legislature adjourned with a mostly positive outcome for Tumwater.

On the upside: •

The current formula of sharing of liquor revenues was untouched.

•

$6 million was made available statewide from marijuana revenues.

Tumwater will be eligible for that funding because they allow marijuana retailing.

•

The Washington State Department of Transportation relocation off Capital Blvd. was funded in order to free up the site on Capitol for redevelopment.

www.thurstonchamber.com

•

$5.8 million was provided for the Deschutes Valley Trail, but it is identified as Tier 3, meaning funding is in future biennia.

•

Full funding is provided for the improvements to Mottman Road along South Puget Sound Community College in Tumwater and Olympia. The funding is available in 2023-27.

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$50,000 is available for the Henderson House renovations.

The City of Tumwater will continue to work with the delegation in the coming years to move up the timing of the funded transportation projects. On the down side: •

The proposed Washington State University extension position was not funded.

•

The Public Works Trust Fund was fully swept leaving no funding available.

Tumwater Mayor Pete Kemet added, “We were thrilled to receive grant funds for preserving the historic Henderson House and for future construction of the Deschutes Valley Trail. We are also grateful that State employees were finally able to get a raise, which should inject some life into our local economy. We’d like to thank our delegation for all their hard work during this difficult session.”

Capital Dollars Received by the City of Lacey: •

The City of Lacey will receive $72 million for the Marvin Road/Exit 111 Interchange. This will upgrade the existing structure to a singlepoint urban interchange, including an exclusive truck ramp to access Northeast Lacey and a direct offramp, southbound, to enter the future Gateway Development.

•

The transportation package included $40 million to construct a WSDOT Olympic Headquarter Facility.

“This is a long overdue investment.

Tumwater will have the opportunity to reclaim the land the existing site is on, and the brand new headquarters in NE Lacey will provide jobs in Thurston County,” said Scott Spence.

He adds, “The Transportation package is a huge win for our state and region. Legislative District 22 really went to bat to get this package, they really championed our region.”●

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept./Oct. 2015 13

The Center for Business and Innovation: Catalyst for High Growth, High Wage Jobs

By Natasha Ashenhurst

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ow does a city, or three cities, create a climate ripe for high growth, high wage jobs? How does a region foster innovation and entrepreneurship? Is there a recipe to follow, step by step?

“Sure,” said Dr. Timothy Stokes, president of South Puget Sound Community College. “The key ingredients are a culture of creativity, access to capital and a commitment from municipalities that they are willing to sustain business development and growth. Mix in easy access to resources, quality mentoring and a population consisting of individuals who are willing to take some risk. Finally, you need a culture that celebrates success.”

Next, he said, we can look to other cities that have already created this success, like Austin, Texas—where Stokes worked in the early 1990s—or Fort Pierce, Fla., home of Indian River

State College (IRSC). During a visit to IRSC, a group of local leaders— from SPSCC, the Thurston Economic Development Council (EDC), the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce, the City of Lacey and Saint Martin’s University—experienced a collective aha moment. They recognized that Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater already had the ingredients needed to create a climate that fosters entrepreneurship and innovation, it simply needed a cohesive structure for the pursuit of their goal—a one-stop shop.

“I became excited when we went to [IRSC] and saw the combination of resources they had to create [the Brown

Center for Innovation],” said Michael Cade, executive director of the EDC. “So we asked, ‘How do we organize the resources we already have?’ ‘Why not put all of these resources under one roof’?”

Resources like those found in the Small Business Development Center, the WPTAC program, SCORE mentoring and the Washington Center for Women and Business. Add to these resources a degree-granting program in entrepreneurship and half of the recipe is already in place.

On the plane back to Washington, Cade was already drafting the vision

Photos above: the Center for Business and Innovation at SPSCC's Rowe Six Campus on 6th Avenue in Lacey. Dr. Timothy Stokes, left, and Michael Cade, right, keynote the Chamber's August Forum, addressing the Center as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.

14 • Sept./Oct. 2015 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

www.thurstonchamber.com

statement of what was to become the Center for Business and Innovation, the first installation at SPSCC’s Rowe-Six campus in Lacey.

The vision of the Center is audacious.

The Center is to be the catalyst for high growth, high wage jobs in Thurston County; the nucleus that spurs economic development and education specifically designed to launch companies, develop products and issue patents, according to Cade.

“The Center will integrate the practice of economic development and education.

Someone could walk in the door of the Center to create a pilot project, review their funding, and then launch. It will be a place to flesh out ideas and then incorporate those ideas into a solid business model. A whole new sector of the economy will emerge from this,” he said. “ It will be a place to flesh out ideas and then incorporate those ideas into a solid business model. A whole new sector of the economy will emerge from this.”

In five to 10 years, Stokes believes the Center can launch 30 to 40 businesses annually—businesses that are sustainable and scalable—adding to the overall economic development of the region.

When asked how they’ll find the entrepreneurs and ideas to make the Center buzz with innovation, both Stokes and Cade state that our region is fertile ground.

“We need to ask how we can keep our talent here,” said Cade. “With a population of 250,000 and three colleges, we need to recognize the talent that we have. We have one of the highest education rates in Washington state and we draw a lot of very smart people here for state government.

“We also have a quality of life that attracts people to live here and start jobs and companies that allow them to stay here. Look at H2O Jet and Diamond Technologies, Inc. Great companies that grew up here. They are world leaders at what they do.” www.thurstonchamber.com

PROJECT TIMELINE Fall 2012 - Dr. Kevin Cooper of Indian River State College keynotes SPSCC's fall gala.

Feb. 2013 - SPSCC convenes work session with EDC to identify plans and efforts that support innovation within the economy.

March 2013 - SPSCC convenes work session with EDC, Thurston Chamber, City of Lacey, The Evergreen State College and Saint Martin's University, to discuss feasibility of creating entrepreneurial center.

March 2013 - Leaders SPSCC, EDC, Thurston Chamber, City of Lacey, The Evergreen State College and Saint Martin's University visit Indian River State College and tour the Brown Center for Innovation. Vision statement for Center of Business and Innovation is crafted.

June 2013 - SPSCC contracted with consulting firm to begin the process of identifying resources, partnerships and opportunities for the Center. A series of four meetings held to solicit community input.

Fall 2013 - SPSCC through Washington State Enterprise Services issues an RFQ for the redevelopment of building 1 of the Rowe Six Lacey Campus.

Winter 2013-2014 - Original tour group convenes a work committee to begin the construction of the "architecture" that would govern and guide the operations of the new center. It establishes a joint position -Director position that would be funded via the SPSCC and EDC. Spring of 2014 - Redevelopment of the facility commences.

September 2015 - Facility will be operational inclusive of the "Center for Business & Innovation."

Stokes agrees. “Our colleges turn out a tremendous number of people who want to stay in the community and start their own businesses,” said Stokes. “We need to harness the energy that young people have and move them into the economy in a seamless way.”

Entrepreneurs are usually full of passion for their idea, Stokes said, but many lack the practical business acumen—or access to that knowledge—it takes to turn an idea into a solid business.

“If you talk to entrepreneurs they always have the ideas and passion, but many forget about the not-so-sexy services, like human resources and accounting,” said Stokes. “The Center will provide those back-of-the-house services so entrepreneurs can focus on their passion.”

The Center’s phones will start ringing on Sept. 8, and a grand opening is set for

October. Celia Nightingale is the Center’s director, reporting to Cade. Nightingale is a former business adviser with the Small Business Development Center, is an adjunct faculty member at SPSCC, was the primary writer of the Washington Small Business Guide, and has an MBA from the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business.

The Center will have an Entrepreneurship faculty member who will help coordinate internships, write business plans and help students find capital to start their businesses.

When asked if all the services will be in place by September, Stokes said most will, but one important ingredient is still missing.

“We are working on angel funding and micro lending,” said Stokes. “Our [SPSCC] Foundation would like to offer start-up funding and micro loans. Many people starting businesses need loans that aren’t bankable. Thurston County really does have a need here.”

Also, Stokes added, other partners are still coming to the table.

“There are additional partners that will be added over the next few years to add to the suite of services that we offer.”

Ultimately, said Cade, when a region becomes a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship, it becomes a magnet that attracts more of the same elements to it from beyond that region.

“As an economic development guy, I’m always asking, ‘How do we attract new investment in Thurston County?’

‘How do we bring resources into our community?’,” said Cade. “If I go to a company outside of our region and tell them they should do business here, I can point to the Center and say, ‘Look, we offer a strong platform to operate in.

We’ll provide you with assistance in a variety of areas, whether that is technical assistance, workforce development or small business incubation. We have strong resources to grow companies and opportunities.” ●

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept./Oct. 2015 15

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16 • Sept./Oct. 2015 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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High-Profile Port Commissioner Race Featured at Chamber's October Forum & All Candidates Invited to Candidates Reception

J

oin the Thurston County Chamber on Wednesday, October 14 for a Candidates Reception & Meet the Candidates Forum. Don't miss this celebration of politics, policy and people!

This event will feature the Port Commissioner race, a pivotal race with regional significance. Forum attendees will hear from all candidates vying for this office. The Olympian's Brad Shannon will moderate the debate. Shannon has covered state government for The Olympian since 1999.

A large contingent of candidates running for public office in Thurston County will be at Forum and the Candidates Reception to meet and mingle with community and business leaders.

Candidates in all races are encouraged to arrive early and stay late for as much one-onone conversation with Chamber members as possible.

Forum is on Wednesday, October 14, at the Red Lion Hotel Olympia from 11:15 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

A plated lunch will be served.

Forum includes lunch, and the cost is $35 for general admission, $25 for prepaid Chamber members, and $30 for members at the door.

Visit thurstonchamber.com to make your reservation today. ●

LTC Class of 2016 Takes the Stage!

T

he Class of 2016, the 22nd Leadership Thurston County (LTC) class, kicks off a new year at the September 11 Opening Retreat.

The 40 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. Participants meet monthly from September through June to learn about current issues, make community connections and explore ways to get involved.

Introducing the Class of 2016 Shari Aldrich, Body Mechanics School of Myotherapy & Massage Dwayne Boggs, Boggs Inspection Services Susan Bowe, Washington State Department of Transportation Kelsey Browne, LOTT Clean Water Alliance Amanda Carroll, Tiburon Systems Donovan Cathey, Tumwater Firefighters Union Maria Chiechi, WA State Residential Care Council Sam Costello, Olympia Police Department Steve Craig, City of Tumwater Leatta Dahlhoff, Washington State Department of Ecology Tina Davis, TwinStar Credit Union John Duerr, Coldwell Banker Evergreen Olympic Realty Shawna Dutton, Habitat for Humanity www.thurstonchamber.com

Len Faucher, Port of Olympia Anthony Ford, Capitol City Press Sytease Geib, Thurston County Chamber Joy Gerchak, Intercity Transit Kasandra Jaquez, Anchor Bank Joshua Johnson, Brown & Caldwell Karen Johnson, Sunset Air Ron Jones, City of Olympia Matthew Klifman, US Bank Jim Ladd, Evergreen Christian Community Jennifer Lamont, Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater Visitor & Convention Bureau Meryl Lipman, The Evergreen State College Jennifer Lord, Thurston Co. Prosecuting Attorney's Office Tanya Mote, South Puget Sound Community College Foundation Teri O'Neal, City of Lacey Sonia Ramirez, Yelm Municipal Court Ryan Reynolds, Weichert Realtors/ Reynolds Real Estate Chris Richardson, Chehalis Tribal Enterprises Risha Sanderson, Puget Sound Energy Scott Sawyer, SCJ Alliance Barbara Soule, AAA Washington-Olympia Office Mark Steepy, KPFF Consulting Engineers Heidi Thomsen, Thurston County Sheriff's Office Bridget Vidonne, Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council Daniel Vining, Thurston First Bank Kyle Wiese, Thurston Economic Development Council Kim Young, Wolf Haven International

The LTC Board of Regents began the new program year with an annual retreat on August 27.

Board members for 2015-2016: Chair Rick Hughes, Principal, Law Office of Richard L. Hughes PLLC Past Chair Renée Sunde, Economic Development Director, City of Olympia Tom Carroll, President/CEO, Tiburon Systems LLC Ann Freeman-Manzanares, General Manager, Intercity Transit Cecelia Loveless, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Saint Martin’s University Wes Martin, Designated Broker/Business Sales Consultant, Sound Business Brokers Kim Peterson, Vice President of Finance/ Chief Financial Officer, TwinStar Credit Union Stephanie Pickernell, Associate Development Advisor, Lucky Eagle Casino Kari Qvigstad, Business Development Manager, Washington State Department of Enterprise Services David Schaffert, President/CEO, Thurston County Chamber Aaron Steele, Owner, Steele Capital Management Jon Tunheim, Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney For more information about LTC, call Judy Reynolds at 360.357.8515 or visit www.

LeadThurstonCounty.com.

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept./Oct. 2015 17

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Consultants – Marketing Regus David Gaver (360) 830-8471 www.regus.com Flexible Office Solutions Shred-It Nick Johnson (425) 264-0073 www.shredit.com Document Services Swantown Inn and Day Spa Nathan Allan

(360) 753-9123 Bed & Breakfast Steel Structures of America, Inc. Caleb Allen (208) 818-1993 www.steelstructuresamerica.com Construction, Commercial & Residential

The Black Sheep Yarn Boutique Michelle Cohen (360) 350-0470 Textiles The Lanai Cafe Bill Nahale'a (206) 478-0772 Restaurants – Hawaiian The Olympia School of Guitar Nicholas Anderson (360) 485-3262 www.olympiaguitarlessons.com

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Willdan Energy Solutions Nick Bernoski (425) 482-0761 Consultants - Safety/Training

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept./Oct. 2015 19

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20 • Sept./Oct. 2015 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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Tumwater’s New Superintendent, John Bash, is Preparing Students for the World of Work and the World of Life

By Natasha Ashenhurst

“

My dream was to be an orchestra director,” said John Bash, Tumwater School District’s new Superintendent. Born and raised in Olympia, Bash, a classically trained violinist, entered Central Washington University as a freshman sure his career would involve music. However, when he was a sophomore, he got involved in student leadership and his dreams quickly changed.

a transition plan outlining the work he intends to accomplish in the coming months. This plan includes gathering critical information about the needs of the students, staff, school system and community, to establish a strong community presence, and assess the district’s strengths, challenges and opportunities for improvement. Also, the plan will identify critical issues, correct weaknesses while honoring the work of the past, and finally create a community network of contacts and resources that will help advance the school system.

From there, Bash will begin developing a strategic plan around the information gathered.

“What I discovered is that I have a passion for leadership and that discovery took me in a totally different direction.

I paired education with “Our strategic plan will focus on leadership and the shoe engagement with staff, parents, fit,” he said. Bash didn’t John Bash at his offi ce in Tumwater. community and students so that leave his passion for music the next five year period reflects the needs and interests of behind. During college he joined a country western band called our community. In addition, there are significant demands on the Fender Benders as their fiddle player, and even today he is public school systems in the form of new learning standards and still asked to play the violin at weddings. assessments,” he said.

After graduation in 1987, Bash went to work as an elementary Bash acknowledges that he will face challenges in his new teacher in Shelton, but was determined to return to Thurston role. He said, “While our legislature did make progress this last County when the opportunity arose. When it did, he quickly session, they still have not yet fully funded education, so our moved to McLane Elementary in Olympia, and his career was greatest challenge will be to continue to find the resources to on an upward climb from then on. He returned to school and provide a 21st century education for our kids so we can prepare received his Masters of Education in School Administration them for the world of work upon graduation.” in 1993 and was Principle at Washington Elementary School in Centralia by 1997, becoming Assistant Superintendent of Another challenge he notes is the number of reform initiatives the Centralia School District by 2007. In 2010 he returned to that are occurring all at one time—the requirement of new Thurston County as Deputy Superintendent of North Thurston teacher evaluations as well as adapting to new learning Public Schools, and on July 1, 2015 the Tumwater School standards. In addition, the region is facing significant teacher District welcomed Bash as their new superintendent. shortages during a time when all day kindergarten and lower class sizes will only increase the demand for teachers.

He treats the role of superintendent as if he were chief ambassador of the school system. “I am looking forward to And while Bash is committed to meeting the needs of engaging in a visible way with students, parents, staff and the Tumwater’s students despite these challenges, he is also community in an effort to build strong partnerships to support committed to operational and fiscal effectiveness. “It is students,” he said. “I am interested in partnering in ways that important that we take a hard look at how we manage public support our kids and families, especially those who struggle.” resources. I started this while working with Raj [Manhas] at The community has been extremely welcoming to Bash, he said.

North Thurston, and I am bringing that mind-set here.

He’s attended receptions held in his honor and has met with community leaders to begin the process of building relationships “However, as we accept these challenges it is critically important within the community. not to lose the parts of our programs that are not measured by During his first month in the role of superintendent Bash drafted www.thurstonchamber.com

the test so that we can prepare students for the world of life, and as a music person, I can attest to the importance of this.”● Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept./Oct. 2015 21

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22 • Sept./Oct. 2015 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

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The Chamber's B&E Committee is Shaping Public Policy in Thurston County

H

ow does the community shape public policy? What role should the business community have in addressing economic issues facing our cities? What role should the Thurston County Chamber play in facilitating a dialogue and drafting position statements?

extensive list of issues, including: • • • • • • • • • •

City of Olympia Comprehensive Plan City of Lacey Sign Ordinance Small Business Loan Program Port of Olympia Warehouse B Port of Olympia Fuel Dock Shoreline Master Program City of Tumwater 93rd Ave. Annexation City of Olympia Downtown Planning City of Olympia Comp. Plan Design Review SideWalk Rapid Rehousing

Step into Prime Locations in Lacey at 7:30 a.m. on the third Friday of every month and you’d find answers to these questions.

This is when and where the Business and Economic (B&E) Committee of the Mike Reid is Chair of the B&E Chamber meets, and it is where they tackle Reid anticipates that the Mazama Pocket Gopher the tough issues that face our community, Committee and is Business Developer Habitat Conservation Plan will continue to at the Port of Olympia. including land use issues, the general dominate committee discussions and action plans. business climate and community service and infrastructure Other areas of focus include the City of Olympia’s Downtown issues. The committee chair is Mike Reid, Business Developer at Strategy and Critical Areas Ordinance, Lacey’s Comprehensive the Port of Olympia, and the meetings are open to the public. In Plan Update and the Port of Olympia’s Tumwater Master Plan fact, the public is encouraged to attend. The B&E Committee is process. For more information on the B&E Committee, visit a public policy advisory committee and reports to the Thurston www.thurstonchamber.com �

Chamber Board of Trustees. “What we do is connect the dots between what issues the community is facing and public policy. When public policy is under consideration we'll brainstorm the issue, and then draft white papers making recommendations which we present to the Board. Often, we’ll recommend additional research in order to create a more robust policy debate,� said Reid.

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Young Professionals Network (YPN) at Casa Mia in August, 2015. The author of this story, Rory, is on the left.

Young Professionals Gain Momentum and Add Morning Buzz

By Rory Zaugg

W

hen you think of the future business leaders of the Olympia area, you wouldn't think of looking for them at an Italian restaurant on a Thursday evening.

But that is exactly where I found the Young Professionals Network (YPN). Granted, I'd been told that is where they would be. It didn't lessen my surprise that it wasn't at some kind of conference center or something more fancy. It was a comfortably casual affair.

The YPN is exactly what the name implies. It is a group of men and women, mostly between the ages of 21 and 35, from all types of businesses and industries around Thurston County, from finance to health care. They meet on the first Thursday of every month at various locations to get to know others that are in a similar situation of getting their careers off the ground. At some point in the evening there is a short discussion on ways to improve their business or employment, such as interviewing tips or the importance of professional dress.

These meetings are just the primary portion of the YPN activities. The secondary portion is a new addition to the YPN offerings and is called Morning Buzz. At Morning Buzz young professionals meet to discuss different topics like minimum wage, local business ventures, the growing cannabis industry and more over coffee or breakfast.

While attendance at these meetings can range from half a dozen to around 30, the conversation never grows stale. With

first-timers coming in regularly, there are always more people there to expand anyone's network of associates.

But why go to these meetings at all? How does the group improve the situation of any of its members? You can get out of it almost anything you go looking for, Brett, a financial advisor for Edward Jones, said. "I come to gain some exposure. I'm one of the newest in the industry around here, and getting my name out there will improve my business down the road."

While Brett is looking for results down the road, Jaron has already improved business for the chiropractic center he works with. "I have actually gained a good amount of business from coming to these meetings, either from the people I meet, or people they know," he said.

While interviewing and asking questions with the purpose of writing this article, even I gained advice and contacts that will expand my own network for possible future employment. And if nothing else, I found out about a theatre I can attend to see local plays and other entertainment. That alone was worth it for me.

The saying is true—it isn't about what you know, it's about who you know. And the more people you know, the easier it will be to gain and improve business for yourself or your employer, find some kind of service you need or even find a job. These individuals at the Young Professionals Network have taken this lesson to heart and are reaping the benefits of its application.

You can bet that tomorrow's leaders are right here. ● Rory is a Camo2Commerce program participant, interning for the VOICE Magazine and can be reached at rzaugg2111@gmail.com.

www.thurstonchamber.com

Thurston County Chamber VOICE  Sept./Oct. 2015 25

Photos from left: Rox shops for treats at Mud Bay Olympia. "Muddies" at Mud Bay's annual Mudstock event for employee development.

Xolo, from Phoenix, is cold during her visit to Mud Bay Olympia and is shopping for a coat. Marisa, Elsa and Lars at Mudstock 2014.

In 1998 they took a car-camping road trip to California which turned out to be pivotal for the future of the business. “Our SCORE counselor, Jerry Zyskowski, had given us a template for a business plan. As we drove to California in an old Ford Ranger we wrote the plan, and in between writing we sang every song we knew. We were hoarse, but we had a lot of fun,” said Lars.

With a solid business plan in place, one which focused on their core competency of ‘using natural food and accurate information to contribute to the health of dogs and cats and the happiness of the people who care for them’, the Wullfs were ready for what happened next.

From One Store to Nine In the summer of 2000, the region’s largest chain of small pet stores became insolvent. So, seeing the opportunity to save jobs and neighborhood stores, they took their approach of healthy nutrition for dogs and cats to Tacoma and Seattle. The turnaround took more than two years, and a lot of hard work, but by the end of 2002, Mud Bay was a profitable company of 85 people in nine neighborhood stores around Puget Sound.

Today, there are 34 Mud Bay stores, five open in Oregon (with two more in the hopper) and 29 in Washington (with three more on the way), as well as a distribution center in Tumwater. Lars and Marisa attribute the steady 20% growth rate to several factors, including an intense focus on their core competency of supplying natural food and supplies to dogs and cats, an ‘everyday low price’ pricing strategy, exceptional employees who then provide exceptional service,

Growth Strategy

something up in order to mark it down to entice people just isn’t an honest way to do business. We want our customers to see that what we sell is a great value every day.”

“We don’t ask people to shop at our stores because we’re local.

That isn’t sustainable. We want people to shop at our stores because we are the best option in the marketplace."

-Lars Wulff

They also make it a point to never ask customers to buy from them because they are local. “We don’t ask people to shop at our stores because we’re local. That isn’t sustainable. We want people to shop at our stores because we are the best option in the marketplace,” said Lars.

Twenty percent growth means you are doubling every three and a half years, which in turn creates a lot of change.

“We’ve adapted to a high rate of change and a high rate of invention. Our jobs are constantly morphing. This can be hard on some people but it also creates opportunity,” said Marisa. Lars adds, “Our systems change regularly, which is really healthy. Growth that is sustainable and is consistent can be a kind of tonic and enabler.”

Finally, they treat their staff and business partners the way they want their staff to treat their customers. “The only thing that matters is how we contribute to the long term health of dogs and cats. That’s it. That contributes to the happiness of owners, which builds a strong company,” said Lars.

adapting to a high rate of change and invention and always working with the long term in mind.

The company grows, not only through opening new stores, but also by selling more at each store every year. “The truth is,” said Lars, “we still serve such a tiny fraction of our market in the regions we have stores. There are a whole lot of dogs and cats out there whose owners have never shopped at a Mud Bay.” In the past, the stores had higher prices than the competition, justified by extraordinary service, but then they changed their pricing strategy. Marisa explains, “We realized that we didn’t want to ask people to pay more to shop with us. So, we adjusted our prices down.

We generally don’t have sales or make our customers cut coupons. Marking

26 • Sept./Oct. 2015 Thurston County Chamber VOICE

What’s Next?

Over the next year, Mud Bay will adopt a model of employee ownership, a goal Lars and Marisa have been working on for a while. “This is the first year that employees will have stock ownership. It is a slow and incremental process, not a huge sea change,” said Lars.

“We can see no downside to employee ownership. The more engaged people are, the better they perform as they work toward building something together. It improves employee retention. Lower turnover means a better trained staff.

Better trained staff means customers have a better experience, which improves the health of the business,” said Marisa.

Continued on page 27

www.thurstonchamber.com

Lars & Marisa Wulff’s Startup Playbook Find a mentor

Early on we worked with a SCORE Mentor. Jerry Zyskowski was our counselor, and he gave us honest, direct feedback that we couldn’t find anywhere else. He was a sounding board, a critic and a wonderful resource. When considering things, we’d ask ourselves, ‘What would Jerry say?’

Build peer support

We’ve both been members of Vistage. Vistage brings together CEOs, executives and business owners into private peer advisory groups guided by expert executive coaches, known as Vistage Chairs. The peer group discussions are very valuable. When things get rough it can be isolating. You may not be about to talk about a specific issue with your spouse or your business partner. You want to talk to people who have context to understand what you are going through. The key is that it is the same group of people over time. You gain incredible insight from sharing your experiences.

Hire people who are smarter and better than you are

We’ve made it a point to hire people who know more than we do, and this allows us to hand over the reins for specific areas of the business with confidence. We’ve already passed the peak of our level of authority.

We have a very good five-person executive team and soon it will be seven. The beauty is that if you turn over responsibility incrementally, you are there to advise and can easily step back in if need be.

Create a company where everyone thinks

We’ve often heard business owners complain about the level of competency or understanding that their staff have. We’ve always believed that if you don’t like the level of engagement and knowledge of your workforce, look in the mirror. It’s the responsibility of the business to create the environment for employees to be great. Ask employees at all levels for input. People really value the opportunity to contribute their ideas and improve the business.

Create a succession plan

Most people don’t think about how the business will go along without you. They think in terms of selling the business. There is another way, which is to build a strong leadership team that will take the company forward and is not dependent on you as a founder remaining in the business.

Work for the company, not for yourself

We realized early on that we never considered that we were working for ourselves. We were always working for Mud Bay. We are builders, and if your focus is on building an organization you have the opportunity to serve a whole lot of people. Growth creates opportunities for our staff, and that gets people excited to work here.

Advice for running a family business

Family businesses can succeed and thrive. As siblings, here’s how we’ve made it work: We trust each other’s judgment, even when we don’t agree on an issue. We share the same values. Neither one of us has to win; we both just want what’s best for the company over the long term. We’ve spent two and a half decades thinking, talking, planning and strategizing. These things made it easy for us to work together, and along with a lot of other “muddies”, we’ve built a solid foundation that is Mud Bay. ●

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