VISION GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
OFFICE MOMS & DADS BUSINESS AND LEADERSHIP AWARDS HOLIDAY HEROES
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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Contents NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER 2019
Notes
7 FROM THE CEO
7 FROM THE EDITOR
Features
10 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES Update from the Public Affairs Committee 12 OFFICE MOMS & DADS Presenting the “Nonprofit of the Year” to be recognized at the Chamber’s December event 14 AMBASSADORS OF THE YEAR Celebrating the volunteers of the Chamber
Membership
8 BUSINESS OF THE WEEK Featuring Vancouver Clinic, Simply Thyme Catering, and Friends of Hospice
18 RIBBON CUTTINGS Celebrating businesses across Southwest Washington 23 NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the Chamber
Engagement
9 YEAR-END PLANNING Opsahl Dawson shares the importance of yearend tax planning
11 HOLIDAY HEROES LUNCHEON The yearly event recognizing the heroes in our community 16 BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP AWARDS A recap of the Chamber’s largest event of the year
ON THE COVER
12
Featuring Co-Founder and Executive Director of Office Moms & Dads, Sarah Desjarlais, seated behind talented model, Ramona. Photographed by Kate Singh Photography GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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VISION GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
ong r t S For A unity Comm
EDITOR IN CHIEF Sarah Cooke
2019 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chair: Kevin Getch Webfor Chair Elect: Tamara Fuller Colliers International Vice Chair: Julianna Marler Port of Vancouver Treasurer: Lisa Goecke Perkins & Co. Past Chair: Amy O’Hara When the Shoe Fits
2019 BOARD MEMBERS
Supporting our community through local lending and charitable contributions since 1923.
Max Ault WSUV Ben Bagherpour SEH America LeAnne Bremer Miller Nash, Graham & Dunn Carol Bua City of Vancouver Debra Carnes PeaceHealth Columbia Network Ed Duvall Columbia Trust Co. John Dombroski Chick-fil-A Cascade Park Nelson Holmberg SWCA Ben Hoskins You Move Me Kendra Laratta Ink Ability Eric Sawyer BBSI Preferred Payroll Ginger Schmidt Riverview Community Bank Dr. Steven Webb Vancouver School District Jim West Zenith Properties NW
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
Columbia Bank HAPO Community Credit Union ilani Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center PeaceHealth Southwest Washington Medical Center Port of Vancouver USA Riverview Community Bank SEH America The Vancouver Clinic
John McDonagh, President/CEO 360.567.1050 | jmcdonagh@VancouverUSA.com Janet Kenefsky, Vice President of Membership & Operations 360.567.1056 | jkenefsky@VancouverUSA.com Amy Tanska, Community Partners and Membership Director 360.567.1089 | atanska@VancouverUSA.com Sarah Cooke, Marketing & Communications Manager 360.567.1058 | scooke@VancouverUSA.com
Hadley Phillips, Member Engagement & Event Coordinator 360.567.1052 | hphillips@VancouverUSA.com
Anne McDonagh, Office Administrator 360.567.1092 | amcdonagh@VancouverUSA.com Sharon Batten, Finance 360.567.1080 | sbatten@VancouverUSA.com
Paul Montague, Business Services Coordinator & SBAP 360.567.1081 | pmontague@VancouverUSA.com
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE
Burgerville – Holland Inc BNSF Railway Chick-fil-A Cascade Park Columbia Credit Union Columbia Machine iQ Credit Union Kaiser Permanente On Line Support The Columbian Touchmark at Fairway Village
DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE
Allen Gabriel, MD Chevron USA Comcast Holland Partner Group Key Bank MacKenzie Perkins & Company, PC Regence BlueCross BlueShield WellHaven Pet Health
PARTNERS & ADVERTISERS
Energy Trust of Oregon Kate Singh Photography NW Personal Training On Line Support Riverview Community Bank The Columbian Vancouver Business Journal
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V OL UM E 134 EDIT ION 12
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Local business news you can use! The Voice
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Barlow’s Publ BY SUE VORENBER
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PAGE 14
ANNUAL THE VBJ’S Y EDITION HROP PHILANT
Twigs Bistro & Martini Bar is the second restaurant to open as a part of the new Vancouver Waterfront nt. Developme
The restaurant opened for business on Sept. 26. Courtesy of Twigs Bistro
UP CLOSE
Get to know owner April Allen, Spoiled and stylist at PAGE 2 Spa and Salon.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Donuts
Dungeon fills a hole in PAGE 4 Battle Ground.
LOCALLY OWNED
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Business Washington
GIVIN
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FOCUS ON:
| AUGUST 17, 2018
| VOL. 25, ISSUE
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ton’s State of Washing leave new paid family launch program will 5 in 2020. PAGE
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ISSUE 38 | $2.50
Profiles Gof
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Vancouver The Greater ce Annual of Commer on Chamber Installati Dinner: Officer on Tuesday event and Awards ted business evening highligh six winners honoring leadership, tion’s 2018 awards. of the organiza Leadership ies and Business & – compan The winners have shown that skills individuals leadership ing ies, outstand large compan s and – include ies, start-up small compan members of the notable other ity. business commun
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BY ZANE VORENBER
| SEPTEMBER 14,
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| AUGUST 3, 2018
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flavor gic plan c Southern ft of strate serves classi discuss dra r’s Crawfish missioners comprese Brothe My ern-s Port nt tyle eatery expects to An updated of of the Port Vancouver USA’s nt, so is try the restaura strategic plan Tran the area to and Angela now available over Khang Nguyen to a second online for the owners time to expand The public to view. decided it was er. to in Vancouv rs coming port expects final location years with custome present the n and for “After 10 , Beaverto strategic plan all over Portland it’s time for and consideration from VBJ potential adoptionVancouver, we decidedcould save some D | For the that STRICKLAN location that on Sept. 11. customers BY BROOKE
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• EIMER OFITS: AT NONPR • IAN MANH • A LOOK CHILDREN BANKS, NEW HOPE BROOKE-WILL LULAC & ELIZABETH • MORE NS FROM GRAHAM • COLUM ON & STACEY TONY JOHNS
My Brother’s Crawfish offers true PROJECTS: customers a COMMERCIAL Southern dining a with experience of full assortment and crawfish, crab Gulf Coast shrimp, clam in addition to boils and mussel week. seven days a
South Louisiana serves up ty Clark Coun classics to
UP CLOSECourtney
Get to know center McNabb, plan Southwest the manager at Contractors Washington PAGE 2 Association.
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PAGE 6
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| VOL. 25, ISSUE
30 | $2.50
LOCALLY OWNED
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Business Washington
| JULY 13, 2018
| VOL. 25, ISSUE
est of Southw The Voice
Clark College s model PAGE 4 guided pathway
28 | $2.50
LOCALLY OWNED
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| JULY 20, 2018
| VOL. 25, ISSUE
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Business Washington
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Those Prior to joining and developm vice planning Management, entitlement was senior or 14 Growth and in for McGreg . nts PAGE expertise global sales ent agreeme ity-oriented projects market president, commun review, developm over a unique place Inc., the global category. for complex Sposito for Ergobaby Clark County g a forum for strategies PROJECTS: with MacKay the baby carriersales and make their work, providin leader in to level MULTI-FAMILY “I have worked have always held said. live while city spaces and several senior r and outdoor to regard,” Snell on L Marty ons” of these practices. two decades has also held has hired the highest footwea dedicati Reef “champi ideas and share best McGregor clients in MART Y SNEL MacKay Sposito manage in leading - honesty, r at ock USA, e a is really staff and positions g professionally also place marketing Adidas, Birkenst Legendary exchangheart of Clark County of Snell as plannin rters. 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(CREDC Marty July SHAKERS: See page we are excited is tough can foster t and CEO PAGE Courtesy of – on Friday, processes Fontainebleau, and how we EGOR MOVERS ANDClark County or vice It is took place Schauer, Presiden development and will Jake Thompson ns the conversations and collaboration. Day across JAY MCGRhas named Jay McGreg our team of public retail. He ons Main Street knowledge is a great addition to these TS: America leaders, politicia public and , Inc. city connecti ent the North together r, PROJEC in more Nautilus ities developm our clients brought togetherof their commun match. 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PAGE 6
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UP CLOSE
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
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FROMTHE THECEO GVCC CEO FROM
John McDonagh
GVCC, CEO/President
Convening Businesses The last quarter of the year at the Chamber always showcases the many ways this organization brings business owners and teams together. Whether it is around advocacy to support business-friendly policy, tapping into education for the members of your company’s team, or getting connected to other businesses, we are diligent about our commitment to members and the impact the Chamber can have on supporting our SW Washington business community. Looking back, October wrapped up our Fostering Growth in the Workplace Fall Workshop Series featuring member experts who prepared sessions on diversity, ethics, inclusion, professional standards, technology, and culture in the workplace. The final workshop “It’s Not Me, It’s You” presented by Lisa Keohokalole Schauer, President of
PointNorth Consulting, focused on recognizing that our perspectives or actions in the workplace may not always be the “right” one, and how self-awareness is an incredible asset to any professional. Over 80 different businesses took part in this year’s Fall Workshop Series, contributing to the growth of professionalism in our business community. When referring to the Chamber workshops, one of the business owners in the workshops mentioned, “I’ve been going to Chamber workshops for the past few years now, and I just love them. I always learn so much and it really helps my business.” We look forward to continuing the success of these powerful sessions in 2020 and hope to see you and your staff growing from our local expertise.
FROM THE CHAIR
Kevin Getch
GVCC, Chairman of the Board of Directors
What Is Your WHY? Great leaders understand what you do is important, but WHY you do it is what really matters. When others quit or give up when the going gets tough, our WHY and sheer determination keep us pushing forward. For some of us, our “WHY” is the dream of a better life, our children, or a desire to change people’s lives. It could be to pay for college, provide for our family, travel more, or to have a positive impact on the community. Each person’s WHY is different. At the end of the day, I believe my WHY, at the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce and beyond, is I am truly passionate about helping other people achieve their WHY. To me, it is the greatest honor in life to be able to play even a small part in helping someone grow, become more, and achieve their dreams and goals. It is an amazing feeling and I consider it a privilege.
We (our members, staff, ambassadors, board members) are the champions of the business community. We connect people, host amazing events, and help business get done in ClarkCounty. What really drives us to go that extra mile is knowing that we are supporting the inspiring professionals in our community. It could be helping someone’s family business or helping someone get closer to their dream. We also know that when we’re supporting someone on the way to achieving their dreams, it can’t help but create a positive ripple effect. The businesses we support provide jobs and the people with those jobs have families. Those families are putting time, money, and love back in our local community. We are proud to be doing work that really matters and support a thriving and successful community that will set an example for the nation. What is your WHY? GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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BUSINESS OF THE WEEK
Fundraising for Compassionate Care FRIENDS OF HOSPICE
Friends of Hospice SW Washington was established in 1986 as an entirely volunteer-based nonprofit that provides funding to local hospice and palliative care organizations. Their mission is to provide funds for the care of hospice and palliative care patients while maintaining working relationships though established hospice organizations in SW Washington. According to Friends of Hospice board member, Beth Anderson, “being a member of the Chamber has helped us increase the visibility and impact of our mission.” The Friends of Hospice volunteer members are very active in the community, including providing “Flowers from Friends” to hospice patients, involvement in keeping a hospice facility updated with furnishings for families, and providing daily soup for families visiting hospice patients. Friends of Hospice do everything they can to fulfill each individual’s last dying wish and provide companionship and comfort in their final days of life. 360.696.5056 | Friends-Of-Hospice.org
Using Clean Energy to Cater to the Community SIMPLY THYME CATERING
Simply Thyme Catering has provided creative catering from small, intimate parties to large-scale events since they were established in 2005. Their most popular catering events include weddings, corporate events, social gatherings, and aviation catering on private jets and charters flying out of PDX. They offer customized services and menus for a range of budget and dietary considerations, also known as “catering by design.” Simply Thyme Catering uses fresh, local ingredients by sourcing only the best Pacific Northwest products, including wild salmon and all things farm-to-table. The Simply Thyme kitchen is fueled by clean energy and has been powered by wind and solar for over 14 years. Chef Tamara, the owner of Simply Thyme Catering, is proud to be “Green Certified” and the winner of the 2017 Green Business Award for Small Business. According to Chef Tamara, “our food is the voice for our company, catering to people, places, and causes. We serve all things for the good of the Earth by serving others and leaving where we’ve been better than how we found it.” 360.891.0584 | SimplyThymeCatering.com
Caring For People - First Priority VANCOUVER CLINIC
In 1936, Vancouver Clinic was established by Dr. John Brougher, a gynecologist, and Dr. Frank Boersma, a family practitioner. Before founding the current community staple, Dr. Brougher would travel around Clark County, taking care of families who paid for his services with chickens. Today, Vancouver Clinic is the largest private, multispecialty clinic in Clark County and one of the largest employers in the region. With over 1,200 employees and upwards of 350 providers, Vancouver Clinic has continued to grow and flourish throughout the years. According to the Vancouver Clinic, “being a Chamber member is a great way to connect with other leaders and work together to promote the health and wellness of our community. We’re proud to be part of Vancouver’s thriving business group.” 360.882.2778 | TVC.org
The Business of the Week online featurette boasts an opportunity to nominate and highlight member businesses making impacts on our community! For more information, check out our Notes on Facebook.
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MEMBER CONTRIBUTION
Aaron Dawson
Owner, Opsahl Dawson CPAs
‘Tis the Season
YEAR-END TAX PLANNING It’s time to start thinking about yearend tax planning. Have you thought about contributing to a retirement plan, or have you thought about whether you will be itemizing on your tax return for 2019? These questions need to be answered before the end of the year to ensure that you can take full advantage of potential tax savings. At Opsahl Dawson, a Vancouver based CPA firm, we think it is a great idea to save for your future and reduce your tax liability at the same time! A 401(k)-retirement plan needs to be established before year-end for you to benefit in the 2019 tax year. This allows you to defer wages up to $19,000 ($25,000 if over age 50). In addition to the wage deferrals, the 401(k) also allows for profit-sharing contributions of up to $56,000 for business owners. There are other options such as a traditional IRA, which you have until the tax deadline (4/15/2020) to contribute, or a SEP Plan, which will allow you to contribute
by (10/15/2020). If you are an employee, the most basic tax savings tool available to you is to maximize your contribution to your company’s retirement plan, especially if the company offers a company match. With the recent change in the tax law, more taxpayers are using the standard deduction. For single filers, the standard deduction is $12,000, married
“Proactive tax planning can have a material effect on your personal net worth.” is $24,000. Finding ways to optimize your personal deductions can be an important tax planning strategy. For example, do you donate to charity each year but not enough to rise above the stan-
dard deduction? If you are not beating the standard deduction, you aren’t getting any tax benefit for your charitable contribution. One strategy is to consider “Bunching” multiple years of charitable contributions into one year. Many people have been using Donor Advised Funds to make a sizeable annual deduction and maintain control of the direction of the funds. Another popular charitable strategy is to donate appreciated stock directly to an organization or donate your retirement fund Required Minimum Distribution, which is called a Qualified Charitable Distribution. Another tax benefit that is often overlooked is the zero percent capital gains rate. If you are single, your 0% capital gains rate is available when your taxable income is below $39,375; if married, the limit is $78,750. This can be an interesting tool in a year with low income or a business loss. It may be valuable to sell some stock, real estate, or other appreciated property to capitalize on the 0% rate. Proactive tax planning can have a material effect on your personal net worth. Discuss strategy with your tax advisor and be ahead of the game. This article was written by Aaron Dawson, owner of Chamber member Opsahl Dawson, local Certified Public Accountants in SW Washington.
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PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Nelson Holmberg, SWCA
Public Affairs Committee Co-Chair
Transportation & Infrastructure • Support the reintroduction of the Local Infrastructure Financing Tool (LIFT)
The 2020 Legislative Priorities I often say “next year’s Legislative Session unofficially starts the day after this year’s session ended” – why?
Well, one example is the work of the Chamber’s Public Affairs Committee (PAC) goes far beyond a monthly meeting, including the development of an annual slate of Legislative Priorities that will be shared, repeatedly, with legislators during the 2020 Legislative Session in Olympia. Before that, however, your industry representatives on the PAC have spent time over the last couple of months bringing forward and prioritizing issues that are important to your business. These issues have been compiled and turned into in a list of the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce’s 2020 Legislative Priorities. This list was recommended to the entire Board of Directors at its regular meeting on Wednesday, October 23, when the board voted to formally adopt the list. Many of the priorities on this year’s GVCC slate include ones that have been included before – but keep in mind these are ongoing issues of concern to business in our membership and the area. Others, including the following bullets, are new this year based on member feedback and on what we’ve heard from Legislators during the current interim. These as well as the recurring items, such as continued support for the BiState I-5 Replacement Bridge efforts including the local office, are the priorities brought forth by the Public Affairs Committee, and ratified by the GVCC Board of Directors, in representation of all of you. If you have any questions or thoughts you would like to add, please feel free to connect with John or Janet at the Chamber office. A complete list of the Chamber’s 2020 Legislative Priorities can be found at VancouverUSA.com/ 2020LegislativePriorities. Next steps include staff-level discussions between our team and leaders at Identity Clark County (ICC) and Columbia River Economic Development Council (CREDC). These business advocacy groups will agree on a list of joint legislative priorities that we will not only take forward in a unified voice during the short session beginning in mid-January, but also will unveil at our upcoming Legislative Outlook Breakfast on Friday, December 13, 2019.
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Economic Development • Oppose the implementation of a Capital Gains Excise Tax, which is broadly seen as a step toward a state income tax • Protect against burdensome business taxes and fees in the event of passage of Initiative 976 (the passage of which the Chamber, Identity Clark County, Columbia River Economic Development Council, and other business organizations in Clark County are formally opposed) Environmental • Support development of a balanced, economically sustainable and environmentally conscious energy policy for citizens, employers and farmers of the state, keeping in mind energy sources. Education • It’s worth restating our ongoing support for the WSU Vancouver request for funding the design phase of the Life Sciences building; Clark College’s design & construction funds for the Boschma Farms campus in Ridgefield; and the Campus Development request by Cascadia Tech Academy. Social Justice • Support the placement of a facility or facilities in SW Washington to address mental & behavioral health and substance abuse, especially among the homeless.
Seasonal Celebrations END THE YEAR WITH THE CHAMBER
Holiday Heroes Luncheon
December 6, 2019, marks our annual sell-out end of the year celebration, the Chamber’s Holiday Heroes Luncheon at Warehouse ’23. Each year, members join us from across SW Washington to honor the chosen Nonprofit of the Year as well as the Chamber’s volunteer team, the Ambassadors. This year, nominated by the Chamber Board of Directors, Office Moms & Dads is being recognized for their work in the community. Office Moms & Dads is a 501(c)3 created to provide resources and a sense of stability for foster children who have recently been removed from their homes. Co-Founders Sarah Desjarlais and Kim Karu, both having experience with foster care and social work, launched Office Moms & Dads with the team of five volunteers, answering their question of “What would happen if the community could provide childcare in the office?” Having seen the effects of these transitions on children, Sarah and Kim strive to deliver a comfortable environment for foster children being introduced to these new and sometimes frightening experiences. The Chamber is proud to celebrate nonprofits such as Office Moms & Dads that contribute to our community in an incredible way. As we look to bring our members together to recognize the efforts of our local nonprofits and the community’s philanthropy, we will also celebrate the volunteer work of the Chamber’s Ambassador Team. Since 1985, the Ambassador Program provides a member-facing representation of what the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce offers the community as well as supporting GVCC Staff at all of our events. This is also our opportunity to recognize the companies and organizations who make it possible for their employees to participate as Ambassadors, who not only assist Chamber staff, but provide new and future members with information and valuable connections. On December 6 at the Holiday Heroes Luncheon, Office
Moms & Dads will be accepting donations for their organization. Guests are encouraged to bring new children’s clothing such as winter jackets, socks, and long sleeves or sensory development toys (for instance PlayAbility toys) that will provide children at Office Moms & Dads with new resources. Attendees of the Luncheon are encouraged to take photos with Santa, meet and greet with community stakeholders, as well as participate in the lively basket-raffles that will take place throughout the event. Please invite your team, clients, and referrals to celebrate our community at the 2019 Holiday Heroes Luncheon on December 6, presented by Chick-fil-A Cascade Park, with media sponsor, The Columbian. More information about the Holiday Heroes Luncheon is available at VancouverUSA.com/HolidayHeroes2019
Battle Ground Holiday Luncheon
Join Battle Ground professionals for seasonal festivities at the annual Battle Ground Holiday Luncheon. This year on December 5 at the Battle Ground Community Center, attendees will meet over lunch with fellow business owners and community members. Hosting approximately 150 attendees, doors will open at 11 AM for guests to choose their memberdecorated table, featuring swag items, treats, and gifts for each seat. For VIP Table sponsors, the doors will open 15 minutes prior for first-choice seating. This annual event, supported by Columbia Bank with media sponsor The Columbian, will also feature an array of baskets to be raffled off, donated by members of the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase at the time of the event. Sponsorships and raffledonations are exclusively available to members interested in being a part of this sell-out event. Visit VancouverUSA.com/BGHolidayLuncheon for more information.
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At Chick-fil-A Cascade Park, our purpose is to build a community worth defending by nourishing the whole person on both sides of the counter. This is the “why” behind everything we do. It guides our decision-making, and it’s the reason Chick-fil-A Cascade Park opened. The problem we are seeking to solve is holistic human nourishment – it sustains our lives. There is no limit to human ingenuity and drive as long as there is a source of nourishment. While human life is sustained through physical nour-
When I was introduced to Office Moms & Dads in the fall of 2018, I was captivated by their purpose and capacity to meet the needs of some of our community’s most vulnerable, often on what could be considered the worst day of their young lives. The day children enter the foster care system is nothing short of traumatic. Often by Child Protective Services or law enforcement, everything they know is taken away from them and their future is decided by individuals they do not know. Office Moms & Dads steps in on that day, a day that can and will impact that child’s future, and serves these children and their case workers in deeply meaningful ways by providing a safe and enjoyable presence while letting the child process this moment in their lives.
Non-Profit OF THE Year ishment, the color, the vitality, and the beauty of each life is formed through the holistic nourishment of the person. We find these emotionally, intellectually, mentally, financially, professionally, relationally, and even spiritually. We are not simply focused on transactions but we are focused on creating interactions. Every interaction represents an opportunity to serve and nourish beyond just the mere nutritional value of the meal being served. The root of the word restaurant comes from the Latin word “restaurare” which means to restore, refresh, or rebuild. Chick-fil-A Cascade Park strives to be that point where the community can be restored and refreshed; body, mind, and soul. Our dining room, a drive thru window, the offices to which we cater – these represent a medium through which we are provided the opportunity to nourish our friends and neighbors. How we Kevin Getch, incoming Chairman see of theothers, Board,how posedwe andchoose to engage and serve; this is where photographed by Kate Singhwe challenge ourselves to pursue our purpose. Photography
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Office Moms & Dads nourishes in every sense of that word our community’s children and the social workers who are working so hard to serve the best interest of these children. These volunteers, our neighbors, are filling a gap and serving a critical need every day. They are unsung heroes and it has been a true honor and a pleasure to support them over them the last year. I am thrilled to introduce them to the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce community through celebration and recognition at the 2019 Holiday Heroes Luncheon.
Written by: John Dombroski, Chick-fil-A Cascade Park Franchise Owner/Presenting Sponsor of the 2019 Holiday Heroes Luncheon Photo: Sarah Desjarlais, Co-Founder of Office Moms & Dads, and John Dombroski, Franchise Owner of Chick-fil-A Cascade Park, Photographed by Kate Singh Photography
“These volunteers, our neighbors, are filling a gap and serving a critical need every day.”
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AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT
The Chamber’s Volunteer Heroes
OUR RED COAT AMBASSADORS
JOEY YOURCHEK ELFIN SERVICES In 2018, Joey was awarded the Rookie of the Year Award for his dedication to the Chamber’s events and mission since joining the team in 2017. His upbeat attitude and approachability effortlessly assisted his volunteer duties encouraging those uncomfortable networking at events to engage with other members whose industries may connect. His work as an Ambassador also connects him to the community on behalf of his professional growth and on behalf of his work at Elfin Services. Joey continues to be an active lead with the Alzheimer’s Association of Vancouver as well as Board Member of the SW Washington Elder Abuse Prevention Coalition. Joey Yourchek (middle) pictured with fellow Chamber members at the Cascade Inn Business After Hours.
BETH ANDERSON FRIENDS OF HOSPICE SW WA The 2018 Ambassador of the Year title was awarded to Beth Anderson, a dedicated community servant and Chamber volunteer since 2016. Assisting the Chamber has been a priority of Beth’s as she is always one of the first to volunteer for a Ribbon Cutting, to help at an event, or to connect two organizations within the membership. As a Board Member for the Friends of Hospice SW Washington, Beth works to find other professional connections in the area to further grow the SW Washington business community and nonprofit network. Pictured with Beth Anderson is fellow Ambassador, Ryan Cole, at the Tidewater Cove Marina Business After Hours.
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Chamber Ambassadors, known as “Red Coats” for their uniform red blazers, are an integral part of the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce team. Since the Ambassador Program’s inception in 1985, the “Red Coats” have served as the mainstay of Chamber volunteers, balancing their professional careers while also dedicating time to assist the Chamber regularly. Ambassadors serve
as the welcoming committee for new members, a liaison between existing members, and a conduit for those seeking membership. Each year, the Ambassador Volunteer Team collectively nominates fellow “Red Coats” to be chosen as the “Ambassador of the Year” and “Rookie of the Year” whose work throughout the term stood out to members, fellow volunteers, and Chamber staff.
MARCY SPRECHER ROCKSOLID COMMUNITY TEEN CENTER This year, the Rookie of the Year is awarded to Marcy Sprecher the Executive Director of Rocksolid Community Teen Center in Battle Ground. Since joining the Ambassador Team, Marcy has led the way encouraging engagement and connection-making for members and future members in Battle Ground. Serving the community by working directly with the youth in the community is why Marcy is passionate about her role in SW Washington. As an Ambassador, Marcy continues to make connections on behalf of the organization to grow and enhance their visibility. Marcy Sprecher (left) is pictured with fellow Ambassador, Lori Lindberg, in front of Rocksolid Community Teen Center.
YVONNE PAYNE EBONY NOTES The Ambassador of the Year Award goes to Yvonne Payne, a dedicated Chamber Ambassador since 2016 and a Chamber member for almost two decades. As a professional pianist and teacher for over 30 years, Yvonne connects with many of our members with a shared love of music. Throughout her service to the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce, Yvonne is a reliable volunteer who goes above what is asked of her during events and activities. Yvonne Payne (right), pictured with former Chamber Ambassador Teresa Bonawitz.
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An Annual Celebration
T
he Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce (GVCC) Business & Leadership Annual Awards Recognition Ceremony made its yearly return with a bang on Thursday, September 25 at the Hilton Hotel in Vancouver with the theme “Set Sail for Success”. The signature event hosted nearly 350 guests who gathered together to celebrate the installation of the 2020 Board of Directors, and to celebrate a successful year in business while raising money for Small Businesses. Kevin Getch of Webfor ceremoniously took the helm as the Chairman of the Board as Amy O’Hara, of When the Shoe Fits
THE CHAMBER’S BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP AWARDS
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I have never regretted the decision to live and work in Vancouver. One of the first decisions I made when I moved here was to join the Chamber of Commerce and become involved in all of its activities. The Chamber and the business community have supported me for 40 years – thank you all.”
Bobby Ras, owner of the Small Business of the Year, Nom Nom Restaurant & Bar, takes the helm for his acceptance speech at the Annual Dinner & Awards Recognition Ceremony. Kate Singh Photography
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ARCH MILLER Founder of the International Air Academy 2019 John S. McKibbin Leadership Legacy Award Recipient
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We are so fortunate to call SW Washington home – the community support, the positive growth in our local economy and the thriving housing market all have been key to our business success.” PATRICK GINN GINN Group 2019 Large Business Award Recipient
and previous chair was given thanks for a year of great leadership and dedication to the Chamber. Three board members were honored for giving 9 years+ of service before rolling off the Board; Tim Schauer of Mackay Sposito, Kristy Weaver of Columbia Bank, and Winston Asai of Columbia Machine. A dessert dash was a highlight of the evening raising a record of over $11,500, which will be distributed to four small businesses through the Small Business Social Media Hashtag Contest presented by Columbia Credit Union. Moving Business Forward in the region is at the core of the
Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce. An essential part of this mission is taking the time to celebrate businesses and individuals in the community whose performance, culture, and values make them stand out. Each year, the Chamber sets aside this one evening to honor those excelling in our business community. We want to thank all the members who took the time to nominate someone for recognition; we certainly had a diverse, creative, and outstanding slate of companies and individuals put forward. Congratulations to the following 2019 Business & Leadership Award Winners.
Organizations like the GVCC provide us the inspiration... as fuel for our own leadership in moving Vancouver toward a more vibrant, safe, welcoming and prosperous city. Whether it’s networking or education, I’m proud to stand with our Chamber as we work to improve business’s confidence in our community.”
It is really important for Corwin to give back to the community that has supported this business for all of these years. There are so many organizations and people that are making our community a great place to live and we feel lucky to be able to help where we can, too!”
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ANNE MCENERY-OGLE Mayor of Vancouver 2019 Statesman of the Year Award
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The SW Washington business community is very important to Nom Nom because it promotes a positive atmosphere to help us consistently strive for success.” BOBBY RAS Nom Nom Restaurant & Bar 2019 Small Business Award Recipient
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CHRIS WORKMAN Corwin Beverage Company 2019 Community Champion Award Recipient
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The Vancouver community is so special to us. We were always excited to build our campus in downtown Vancouver, however, we have been blown away at the level of support that has been demonstrated to our WellHaven team of doctors, technicians and caregivers.” JOHN BORK WellHaven Pet Health 2019 Start-Up to Watch Award Recipient
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RIBBON RIBBONCUTTINGS CUTTINGS
An End of the Year Celebration
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The end of 2019 marks the perfect time to gather friends, family, clients, and potential customers to support the success of the year at your business! Whether you’re celebrating a grand opening, rebranding, anniversary, or just want to spend time with those in our community, an end of the year Ribbon Cutting will make an impact rolling into the new decade. View the Ribbon Cutting celebrations below captured from August through mid October.
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BRONZE
GOLD
PLATINUM
LEVEL
LEVEL
LEVEL
Your Chamber membership includes a free ribbon cutting ceremony every year, so why not utilize this customized benefit to show how thankful you are for your business? Increase the visibility of your business by upgrading to a PLATINUM LEVEL, GOLD LEVEL, or BRONZE LEVEL ribbon cutting. To book your celebration, connect with Hadley Phillips, Member Engagement & Events Coordinator, at hphillips@VancouverUSA.com.
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NEW MEMBERS
Amy Tanska Community Partners and Membership Director 360.567.1089 | atanska@vancouverusa.com
360 Sheet Metal, LLC 2400 NE 65th Ave Suite A Vancouver, WA 98661
Welcome New Members! What an exciting time for the new businesses joining the Chamber! GVCC is proud to provide an extensive list of benefits, resources and opportunities available to such diverse businesses –manufacturers, massage therapy, financial planning, nonprofits, restaurants, baseball and more. With nearly 130 years of success behind us, we know how to keep “Moving Business Forward” and look forward to working with the vibrant business community here in SW Washington for years to come.
A-Mei-Zing Massage, LLC 8221 NE Hazel Dell Ave Suite 103 Vancouver, WA 98665 sites.google.com/view/a-meizing-massage-llc/home Amazon 1250 NW Swigert Way Troutdale, OR 97060 amazondelivers.jobs/warehouse-jobs/oregon-jobs/ Blue Pine Construction Corp. 4857 W 147th Street Suite D Hawthorne, CA 90250 bluepineconstructioncorp.com/ Northwest Motor Service 1331 Baltimore Street Longview, WA 98632
Holland Partner Group 1111 Main Street Suite 700 Vancouver, WA 98660 hollandresidential.com
Portland Diamond Project 1919 SW Morrison Street Portland, OR 97205 portlanddiamondproject.com
HOPE Dementia Support Groups 9901 NE 7th Ave S Suite 212 Vancouver, WA 98685 HOPEdementiasupport.org
Primerica Advisors 3305 Main Street Suite 300 Vancouver, WA 98663 primerica.com/annwalls
JoJo + CoCo 10706 NW Lakeshore Ave Suite 104 Vancouver, WA 98685 jojoandcoco.com
Sabor Mexicano, LLC 2108 Main Street Vancouver, WA 98660 sabormexicanrestaurant.com
Marcie High, Independent distributor for Bocannaco 15806 NE 212th Ave Brush Praire, WA 98606 Musica Lanterna 11508 NE 94th Street Vancouver, WA 98662 musicalanterna.com NAMI SW WA 2500 Main Street Suite 120 Vancouver, WA 98660 namiswwa.org
Clark County Dental Society 8615 NE Hazel Dell Ave. Vancouver, WA 98665 clarkdentists.org
Office Moms & Dads 806 Main Street Vancouver, WA 98660 officemomsanddads.com
Crown Bridal 111 W. 7th Street Vancouver, WA 98660 crownbridal.com Edward Jones – Vicki Blunt 4305 NE Thurston Way Suite D Vancouver, WA 98662 edwardjones.com/vicki-blunt Finishing Touch, LLC 513 E Main Street Battle Ground, WA 98604
Orangetheory Fitness East Vancouver/Camas 530 SE 192nd Ave Suite 104 Vancouver, WA 98683 eastvancouvercamas.orangetheoryfitness.com paradigmQ 14415 SE Mill Plain Blvd Suite104B Vancouver, WA 98684 paradigmq.com
Geneva FinancialVicki Ahmadi MLO 16910 NE 79th Way Vancouver, WA 98682 mwloans.com Herboriste by NW Therapeutics 1308 Main Street Vancouver, WA 98660 nw-therapeutics.com
Pepper Bridge Winery & Amavi Cellars 677 W Columbia Way Vancouver, WA 98660 pepperbridgewinery.com
Salmon Creek Airbrush Tanning 14300 NE 20th Ave Suite D102 Vancouver, WA 98686 salmoncreekairbrushtanning. com StageOneInAction 9330 NE Vancouver Mall Dr. Suite 203 Vancouver, WA 98662 thestageoneinaction.org The Birds and The Beans 510 Pioneer Street Ridgefield, WA 98642 The UPS Store 720 SE 160th Ave Suite 103 Vancouver, WA 98684 theupsstore.com/7196 USI Northwest Insurance 2907 NW 117th Circle Vancouver, WA 98685 usi.com Vancouver Dentist Office 918 SE 164th Ave. Suite 200 Vancouver, WA 98683 vancouverdentistoffice.com Wolf Industries, Inc. 1601 SE Commerce Ave Battle Ground, WA 98604 wolfind.com
Join us in Moving Business Forward with our newest members! GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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VISION GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
1101 Broadway, Suite 101 Vancouver, WA 98660 USA
PERIODICAL US POSTAGE PAID VANCOUVER,WA
Upcoming Events ON VANCOUVERUSA.COM 11/12/19 RIBBON CUTTING @ OnPoint Community Credit Union 9 AM Ceremony Bronze Level
11/15/19 RIBBON CUTTING @ The Salvation Army 12 PM Ceremony PLATINUM LEVEL
11/12/19 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS @ Glenwood Place 5 – 7 PM GVCC’s After Hours networking event
11/16/2019 SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING WORKSHOP @ GVCC 10 AM - 3 PM Small Business Assistance Program (SBAP)
11/13/19 LEADS & NEEDS: NORTH COUNTY @ Mill Creek Pub Doors: 7 AM $5/Members The best morning networking in North County 11/13/19 NETWORKING FOR NEWBIES @ GVCC 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM A DIY Marketing Center Event 11/14/19 RIBBON CUTTING @ Crown Bridal 4:30 PM Ceremony
Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (Required by 39 USC 3685 ) A. Total no. of copies printed (net press run) 1400 1400 B. Paid and/or requested circulation 1. Mailed outside-county 163 168 2. Mailed in-county 882 905 3. Paid distribution outside the mails 0 0 4. Paid distribution by other classes 0 0 C. Total Paid Distribution 1046 1073 D. Free or nominal rate distribution 1. Free or nominal rate outside-county 0 0 2. Free or nominal rate in-county 0 0 3. Free or nominal rate (other mail) 0 4. Free or nominal rate (outside mail) 200 200 E. Total free or nominal rate distribution 200 200 F. Total distribution 1246 1273 G. Copies not distributed 154 127 H. Total 1400 1400 I. Percent paid 83.9% 84.3%
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11/21/2019 RIBBON CUTTING @ Pepper Bridge Winery 3:30 PM Ceremony
11/17/2019 LEADS & NEEDS @ Beaches Doors: 7 AM $5/Members Morning speed-networking in Vancouver. Presentation by ParadigmQ. 11/20/2019 NEW BUSINESS COACHING @ GVCC 9:30 – 11:30 AM Small Business Assistance Program (SBAP)
12/4/2019 LEADS & NEEDS @ Beaches Doors: 7 AM $5/Members Morning speed-networking in Vancouver 12/4/2019 RIBBON CUTTING @ ZOOM+Care Waterfront 4:30 PM Ceremony 12/5/2019 BATTLE GROUND HOLIDAY LUNCHEON @ Battle Ground Community Center 11 AM – 1 PM Battle Ground’s Annual Holiday Luncheon
12/6/2019 HOLIDAY HEROES LUNCHEON @ Warehouse ‘23 11 AM – 1 PM GVCC’s Signature Holiday Celebration Presented by Chick-fil-A 12/11/19 LEADS & NEEDS: NORTH COUNTY @ Mill Creek Pub Doors: 7 AM $5/Members The best morning networking in North County 12/13/19 2020 LEGISLATIVE OUTLOOK BREAKFAST @ Warehouse ‘23 7:30 – 9 AM Featuring the Shared Business Priorities of CREDC, ICC, and GVCC
12/5/2019 RIBBON CUTTING @ Vancouver Dentist Office 4:30 PM Ceremony
Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (required by 39 U.S.C. 3685) of the Vancouver VISION Magazine as of January of 2019. Vancouver VISION Magazine is published six times per year by the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce. Annual subscription price: $25. Publisher: Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce; Editor: Sarah Cooke, Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce, 1101 Broadway, Suite 100, Vancouver, Clark County, WA 98660-3319. Owner: Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce, 1101 Broadway, Suite 100, Vancouver, Clark County, WA 98660-3319. Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None. The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes have not changed during the preceding 12 months. The extent and nature of circulation is Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce members and local businesses. The average number of copies of each issue during the preceding 12 months are: 1400 a. Total Number of Copies Printed: 1400. b. Paid and/or Requested Circulation: (1) 163 Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions States on PS Form 3541; (2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541: 882; (3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carrier, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS: 0; Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS: 0. c. Total Paid Distribution: 1046. d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies includes on PS Form 3541: 0; (2) Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies includes on PS Form 3541: 0; (3) Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS: 0; (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail: 200. e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: 200. f. Total Distribution: 1246. g. Copies not Distributed: 154. h. Total: 1400. Percent Paid: 83. The actual number of copies of a single issue published nearest to the filing date (November 2019) are: a. Total Number of Copies Printed: 1400. b. Paid and/or Requested Circulation: (1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions States on PS Form 3541: 168; (2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541: 905; (3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carrier, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS: 0; Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS: 0. c. Total Paid Distribution: 1073. d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies includes on PS Form 3541: 0; (2) Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies includes on PS Form 3541: 0; (3) Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS: 0; (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail: 200. e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: 200. f. Total Distribution: 1273. g. Copies not Distributed: 127. h. Total: 1400. Percent Paid: 84. I certify that this statement of ownership is correct and complete. John McDonagh, President/CEO, Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce.
GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
VISION