The GVCC's 2014 July/August Special INTERVIEW ISSUE edition of the "Vancouver VISION Magazine"

VANCOUVER

VISION Magazine

CLARK COUNTY’S

MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE MICHAEL HIPPERT NAN HENRIKSEN JOSE SCOTT ALISHIA TOPPER RYAN HURLEY

27 NEW MEMBERS JOSEPH NUTTING JOEL NEHM CREAM & SUGAR CARRIE COFER KIEWIT JULIE KUNI THE VILLAGE VINEYARD

JULY/AUG 2014 INTERVIEW ISSUE

News

CHAMBER

Our O ur

Committment C Customer Cu ustome Satisfaction tto

ng o r t S For A munity Com

We...

do the best we can

For the third time, Clark Public Utilities has been named to an elite list of J.D. Power Customer Champions. One of 50, our public utility is recognized alongside iconic, multinational luxury brands known for exceptional service.

It’s an honor. And a reminder, that we have the ability to make our customers feel respected and proud.

www.clarkpublicutilities.com

Supporting our community through local lending and charitable contributions since 1923.

NORTH

BANK

NOW

PLATE & CUP

WHAT IS HAPPENING ON THE NORTH BANK

HAPPENINGS & HOTSPOTS

YOUNG & RESTLESS

you’ll find out at www.northbanknow.com

RiverviewBank.com #RiverviewBank

PG16-18

RIBBON CUTTINGS Business is prospering in Southwest Washington

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PG21

KELLY LOVE PARKER Chamber of

THE DEBUT

INTERVIEW ISSUE

PG7

PG13

Commerce Chairman introduces three fellow GVCC Board Members as they sit down with our newest members

of Commerce Vice President introduces four Ambassadors as they talk about what makes them tick

PG8-11

PG14-15

Board Member TAMARA FULLER with the duo behind Cream and Sugar

Ambassadors Kristeen Millet and Grant Winters

DON RUSSO Chamber of

FACE TIME

Board Member WINSTON ASAI sits with Carrie Cofer of Kiewit Board Member JODY CAMPBELL sits with Julie Kuni who is about to launch her new business THE VILLAGE VINEYARD

DARCY ALTIZER Chamber

Commerce CEO will introduce the GVCC's first ever list of Clark County's Most Interesting People

PG22-26

THE MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE The GVCC features five of Clark County's most interesting people from a wide variety of industries and backgrounds

BEHIND THE RED COATS

PLUS Ambassadors Patty Carroll and Leroy Santiago

Michael Hippert, CEO of Pangea Motors.

Hippert was the 2013 recipient of the GVCC’s Business and Leadership Award “Start-up to Watch,” as well as honored by a number of other organizations. See more on Page 22.

Photo by Kate Singh of Aevum Images.

ON THE COVER

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Serving customers of NW Natural in Oregon and Washington.

New Development in Battle Ground, WA

Developed by Principal Properties, LLC.

• New retail center anchored

by Walmart Supercenter now open.

Scotton Landing

• Panda Express scheduled to open Fall 2014.

• Space available for sale and lease.

• www.mctowncenter.com

Map data ©2013 Google

Call for details: T.J. Fontenette 360.834.1060 Email: tj@principal-llc.com

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CEO/PRESIDENT: Kelly Love-Parker CHAIRMAN: Don Russo

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Chandra Chase

BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR: Don Russo, Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt CHAIR ELECT: Eric Sawyer, BBSI Preferred Payroll VICE CHAIR: Eric Olmsted, On Line Support, Inc. TREASURER: Winston Asai, Columbia Machine PAST CHAIR: Kristy Weaver, Pacific Continental Bank Jody Campbell, The Columbian Todd Coleman, Port of Vancouver John Deeder, Evergreen Public Schools Tamara Fuller, NAI Norris, Beggs & Simpson

Dave Horowitz, Windermere Real Estate Ben Hoskins, 1-800-GOT-JUNK Elie Kassab, Prestige Development Dan Monaghan, Perkins & Co. Wayne Nelson, Clark Public Utilities William Pritchard, Pritchard Orthodontics Rhona Sen Hoss, Vancouver School Foundation Tim Schauer, MacKay Sposito Keith Wallace, Frumenti, Lander & Wallace, P.S. Jeff Woodside, Nutter Corporation

STAFF Kelly Parker, President/CEO 360-567-1050 kparker@vancouverusa.com Darcy Altizer, Vice President, Member Services 360-567-1051 daltizer@vancouverusa.com Susie Bauder, Events Director 360-567-1093 sbauder@vancouverusa.com

Matt Hoffstetter, Sales Director 360-567-1058 mhoffstetter@vancouverusa.com Teresa Lawwill, Community Relations Director 360-567-1090 tlawwill@vancouverusa.com Chandra Chase, Communications Director 360-567-1056 cchase@vancouverusa.com

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE Pacific Continental Bank SEH America, Inc. Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center Riverview Community Bank

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE Columbia Machine, Inc. iQ Credit Union Burgerville – Holland, Inc. Kaiser Permanente PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center Chevron USA Comcast Business Class BNSF Railway Columbia Credit Union Online Support Columbia State Bank

CONTRIBUTORS & ADVERTISERS Adco Commercial Printing & Graphics Aevum Images Bankcard Brokers Beaches Restaurant & Bar Business Outcomes Consulting Clark PUD Columbia Machine Cream & Sugar Energy Trust of Oregon Global Security

Humana MarketPOINT Kiewit Norris, Beggs & Simpson Northwest Personal Training Prestige Development Principle Properties Sports Clips The Columbian The Village Vineyard & Wine Washington State University - Vancouver

1101 Broadway, Suite 100 Vancouver, WA 98660 360-694-2588 yourchamber@vancouverusa.com www.vancouverusa.com facebook.com/yourchamber twitter.com/vanchamber pinterest.com/gvccvancouver ChamberNews (USPS 008786) is published bi-monthly by the Vancouver Chamber of Commerce, 1101 Broadway, Suite 100, Vancouver, WA 98660. Tel. 360-694-2588, Fax 360-693-8279. ChamberNews annual subscription is $25. Periodicals postage paid in Vancouver, WA. Postmaster: Send all address changes to ChamberNews, 1101 Broadway, Suite 100, Vancouver, WA 98660.This publication is dedicated to providing Chamber business news, educating the reader, and providing critical commentary.

MAGAZINE PRINTED BY: ADCO PRINTING & GRAPHICS 355 GRAND BLVD VANCOUVER, WA 98661

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Sign up for your FREE daily business e-newsletter! ess e-newsletterprovides yoinu The Columbian’s new businon out what’s happening timely news and informati ingabbusiness community.

Clark County’s expand

BUSINESS TODAY Here’s how you sign up to get your FREE e-newsletter: Here’s how you sign up to get your FREE e-newsletter:

To subscribe to The Columbian call 360-694-2312.

36

CHAMBER0813

1. Go to www.columbian.com 2. At the top of the homepage click “eNewsletters” 3. Provide your contact information 4. Click the BusinessToday box (and any other eNewsletters) 5. Choose the email format you prefer 6. Click the “subscribe” button 7. Your eNewsletter(s) will arrive in your in-box the next business day

Don Russo, GVCC Chairman

O

ver the next three pages I am happy to introduce to you three fellow Chamber of Commerce Board Members with their new recruits who joined fresh off the April Membership drive.

The new members that you are about to meet are a great representa on of our 1,100 + membership. One is about to open the doors of her business. One is about to expand; and another is a long standing regionwide headquarters located in Vancouver, WA!

In April the Chamber had its first ever membership drive. We offered three unique packages to a ract would-be members. The first was a “Ribbon Cu ng” package (our most popular), an “Adver sing” package that included sponsorship at one of our events. And finally, a “Leadership Development Package.”

Twenty seven new members in all joined the Chamber in April.

Welcome!

Don Russo of Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt Law Offices.

Picture by Aevum Images.

EXPANDING: Cream & Sugar

C

ream & Sugar can easily be seen as a Vancouver entrepreneurial success story. Things started with humble beginnings in 2008, when Joseph Nu ng used his savings to buy a small, yet established coffee shop in the Vancouver Center building. Being mindful of the economic downturn he worked most days himself and made key changes to the menu/offerings which proved successful. A er a short me, of being the solo owner, he brought in partner Joel Nehm and they haven’t looked back since.

A er years of modest, yet successful growth it was me to take the leap and expand. Tamara Fuller of NAI - Norris Beggs & Simpson played a role in this transi on. Their rela onship was established over seven years of Fuller being their customer (NAI-Norris Biggs & Simpsons’s offices are in the Vancouver Center building).

LEFT: Joel Nehm and Joseph Nutting, owners of Cream & Sugar.

“I helped them expand their business to their 15th Street loca on, which they operate along with their Vancouver center loca on.

And, in addi on to a new café on the ESD Campus,” explained Fuller.

Currently, the best selling lunch item at Cream & Sugar is the Pesto Premo Sandwich. Their favorite is the Southwest Wrap and a new seasonal item you can enjoy is their lemon cookie - so but very tart.

What’s Next: Joseph and Joel have a brand new project in the works, set to open this summer called Luxe by Cream and Sugar. This is going to be a full service casual dining venue in the heart of Vancouver. Comfortable, unique and friendly - they will serve breakfast, lunch

and dinl h a happy h h ner; along with hour menu featuring wine and beer. “There will be a counter to place orders, and darktoned woods and padded seats,” explained the duo, “we’re making upscale dining approachable.” The Ribbon Cu ng package to promote the grand opening of Luxe is the clincher that pushed Cream & Sugar to join the Greater Vancouver Chamber.

RIGHT: Tamara Fuller of NAI - Norris Beggs & Simpson and a GVCC Board Member.

Pictured above: Cream & Sugar’s newest endeavor: LUXE! A new concept in dining at the Vancouver Center, near Esther Short Park. It will be opening this Summer!

Ribbon Cutting event details to come!

FOUNDED BY

2

1884

KIEWIT now employs

BROTHERS IN

150

I

t’s not every day that a business can match or beat the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce in age. Kiewit has done so, established in 1884, it pre-dates the Chamber - which was established in 1890. Columbia Machine, a rela ve ‘new kid on the block’ established in 1937 was the link between us during the Chamber’s first Membership drive.

Winston Asai, the CFO of Columbia Machine reached out to a former colleague: Carrie Cofer at Kiewit. The result: New Membership!

“I had the pleasure of working with Carrie for about 10 years at Columbia. She was our HR Director for the past several years, and did a great job for Columbia,” said Asai. Cofer, who is now Kiewit’s Director of Client Rela ons and Development explained the opportunity to learn more about the local community, meet community leaders and gain informa on on contrac ng avenues as the key reasons for joining the GVCC.

WITH LOCALLY

33k

COMMUNITY PLAYER: Kiewit Kiewit recently made the FORTUNE 100 Best Places to Work list.

Interes ng fact: They’ve built more miles of interstate highway than any other contractor. The Fort Lewis Project brought them to Washington State in 1939 and other notable projects include the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, the Bonneville Locks, and Safeco Field. They would like you to keep this in mind: when you see a construc on project, Kiewit or otherwise, please slow down, their families depend on it!

We hope Kiewit will thrive in the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce, similar to Columbia Machine, who has been a partner for over 75 years. The GVCC is working with all stakeholders and members to make Clark County “a great place to live and work.”

Kiewit is a true community player and has a culture of giving back. Many of their employees support local nonprofit organiza ons. The Vancouver office currently supports several nonprofits including Daybreak, The Children’s Center, The Clark County Food Bank, United Way, ShareHouse, and others. Last year 28 employees volunteered their me to help clean up and repair local homes and parks through Habitat for Humanity. Kiewit employees also volunteer their me and on occasion Kiewit’s resources including a recent trip to Nicaragua where employees volunteered to design and construct a 115 foot suspension footbridge in a remote village that will provide the community year-round access to medical resources, jobs and educa on.

Visit

www.VancouverUSA.com

for more info

EMPLOYEES COMPANY WIDE

LEFT: Carrie Cofer of Kiewit.

RIGHT: Winston Asai of Columbia Machine.

VANCOUVER

VISION

Magazine

9

OPENING IN JULY The Village Vineyard & Winery

I

n July, Julie Kuni will make a wish h come true. Her mother-inlaw, who is also her friend and co-conspirator, had a dream.

To turn their beautiful property of lush landscaping, rolling hills and an inviting yellow Victorian home (located in north Clark County) into The Village Vineyard and Winery.

This dream will become a reality this July when the doors open for the first time to the general public.

Longtime friend, Jody Campbell of the Columbian introduced the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce to Julie Kuni and encouraged her to join our organization during the “April Only” Membership drive. “The Ribbon Cutting package was an ideal fit for Julie with the launch of her new business The Village Vineyard and Winery,” explained Campbell. Expect to be invited out to the Estate in July for the official ribbon cutting ceremony.

Julie and Jody’s friendship has grown through their involvement in a number of influential fundraising events within the community. They are founding members of Pink Power which has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to build the Kearney Breast Cancer Center and the Holtzman Twins Special Care Nursery in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at SW WA PeaceHealth. Plus, they played a roll in “The beat goes on HeArts

of Clark County” fundraiser for PeaceHealth. At the HeArts Gala Pe they exceeded their fundraising th goals when auctioning off the 30 go uniquely decorated 6-foot tall u HeArts created by local artists.

H The Village Vineyard & Winery is star ng off as a true family affair.

Kuni’s kids have taken part in bo ling and helped to plant the first rows of grapes in their soonto-be fl ourishing vineyard. flo The Village Vineyard will host wine tas ng events, weddings, book available mee ng space for local businesses, have two bed and breakfast rooms available; and offer their

A New Business by the Numbers

main interior room for holiday par es, bridal & baby showers, anniversaries, rehearsal dinners, and other important events with guests numbering about 50.

“Charity func ons will also happened here,” said Kuni, who works with a number of chari es in Southwest Washington. Last year, Kuni competed in the Fort Vancouver Na onal Trust’s “Dancing with the Local Stars” event and took home the honors of most talented and best technical dancer. This year, on May 31st Kuni, with two close friends performed for the Children’s Center “Glamorous Gams 2” event. This event brought almost $200,000 to the non-profit and her team “The Fabulous Brune es” were a major part of the event’s success.

Number of

Landscaping Hours

to get ready for opening

Number of

1,500

Wine Barrels on location

40 Wines Available to taste at the Grand Opening: 8 Number of

Number of

Employees: 9

2500 Grapes to be planted, each 1 meter apart

Max Number of guests that can be accommodated for a Wedding: 500 Number of years the Village was her

Mother-in-law’s Dream: 3 Number of Guests the biggest ‘in house’ Party can accommodate:

50

Sit Down Dinner, 75 for Happy Hour

for

Base price of Renting a Room for a

Business Meeting: $

250

NEW MEMBERS

Businesses who’ve joined the GVCC Since April 2014

Athletes Corner 8104 NE 13th Avenue Vancouver, WA 98665 www.athletescorner.com

Grant Mo Photography, Inc. 4400 NE 77th Street Suite 275 Vancouver, WA 98662 www.grantmo .com

Columbia Dance 1700 Broadway Vancouver, WA 98663 www.columbiadance.org

The Village Vineyard & Winery 9400 NE 134th Street Vancouver, WA 98662 www.villagevineyard.com

MAKE CONTACT Send an email welcoming a new member you’d like meet!

CONNECT Plan to meet at the next event!

Cream & Sugar 700 Washington Suite 104 Vancouver, WA 98660 309 East 15th Street Suite B Vancouver, WA 98663 2500 NE 65th Street Vancouver, WA 98661 www.creamsugarcafe.com

RETAIL, FOOD & CREATIVE

CONSTRUCTION, HOME

REFERRAL REWARDS Receive magazine advertising or free entry perks for making membership referrals

Hunke Equipment and Truck Sales 19215 SE 34th Street #106 Camas, WA 98607 www.hunkeequipment.com

Malloys General Contrac ng, LLC 812 W McLoughlin Blvd Vancouver, WA 98660 malloynelson@gmail.com

Plumbing Works NW 22804 NE 50th Avenue Ba le Ground, WA 98604 plumbingworksnw@aol.com

Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. 2200 Columbia House Blvd Vancouver, WA 98661 www.kiewit.com

Nature’s Gate Organic Land Care 13014 NE 14th Avenue Vancouver, WA 98684 www.nglandcare.com

Seamless A enua ng Technologies, Inc. 1769 Bishop Road Chehalis, WA 98532 www.smartcellsusa.com

Healthy Habits Global 32713 NE 82nd Avenue La Center, WA 98629 www.healthyhabitsglobal.com/ karenb.com Hockinson Wellness Massage, LLC 15814 NE 182nd Avenue

Brush Prairie, WA 98606 hockinsonwellnessmassagellc.vpweb.com Maxson Fitness 2400 Broadway Vancouver, WA 98663 www.maxsonfitness.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

NONPROFITS Congrega on Kol Ami 7800 NE 119th Street Vancouver, WA 98662 www.jewishvancouverusa.com Western United States Agricultural Trade Associa on 4601 NE 77th Avenue Suite 240 Vancouver, WA 98662-6730 www.wusata.org

FINANCE, SERVICES & OTHER DataSafe, Inc. PO Box 23056 Portland, OR 97281 www.datasafeinc.com Debbie Gardner Insurance Agency 11711 NE 99th Street Vancouver, WA 98682 debbiegardnerinsurance.com Aus n Family Den stry 2100 SE 164th Ave. Vancouver, WA 98683 aus nfamilyden stry@comcast.net Centex Fluid Products 7600 NE 47th Avenue

Vancouver, WA 98661 www.centexfluidproducts.com Consolidated Insurance Services 1711 Main Street Vancouver, WA 98660 www.concolidated-insuranceservices.com English Auto, Inc. 24514 NE Dresser Road Camas, WA 98607 www.englishracing.net Focus North America Inc. 1005 W. 8th St. Vancouver, WA 98660 www.focusna.com

Diana Acuesta 20323 SE Fernridge Drive Camas, WA 98607 dmacuesta@yahoo.com

Reid Business Services 2848 NW 11th Avenue Camas, WA 98607 www.reidbiz.com

Keller Williams Realty-James Dean Lucas 7403 NE 143rd Court Vancouver, WA 98682 lucas@clarkcountywa.com

ReMax 7700 NE Greenwood Drive Vancouver, WA 98662 donaldjordan@equitygroup.com

LoanStar Home Lending 201 NE Park Plaza Drive Vancouver, WA 98684 loanstarhomelending.com Pacific Capital Resource Group 2808 NE 144th Street Vancouver, WA 98686 www.pcrg.com

Shana O’Brien, Realtor 10002 NE 13th Ave Vancouver, WA 98686 www.shanaobrien.com Usernews Media Group 1554 NE 3rd Avenue Camas, WA 98607 www.telecomreseller.com

Darcy Altizer, GVCC VP

I

t’s my pleasure, as the GVCC Ambassador Team coordinator to highlight four “red coats” over the next two pages in our first ever: Interview Issue.

In the next two pages you’ll see the conversa on between four of our Ambassadors, as they sat down together to talk about a wide variety of things that make them ck: loved ones, careers, history, passions, volunteerism, kids and hobbies.

This was a great way to ‘get behind the coat’ of the Ambassadors that you see volunteering all year round. The Ambassadors are truly the HEART of the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce!

In fact, one of our four featured Ambassadors was on the inaugural list in 1986, one was a beauty queen!

Visit

www.VancouverUSA.com

for more info

VANCOUVER

VISION

Magazine

13

BEHIND THE

GRANT WINTERS

I am the Business College Program Coordinator at Washington State University: Vancouver and get to work on a beau ful Campus - we are proud to call Vancouver home.

I see that my place among the Ambassador team serves as a great connector from the WSU-Vancouver business

school to Vancouver businesses currently opera ng in our community.

while, gladly, for us. Caring for a one month old is a full me job!

We recently put real roots down in Vancouver. My wife and I bought a house in the Salmon Creek area and just had our first baby: Grayson.

Sports, beer making and outdoor ac vi es are being replaced with feeding, family me and anything else my wonderful wife, Becca needs.

Our hobbies are going to be put on hold a li le

KRISTEEN MILLET

We absolutely love Vancouver. In fact, we moved up here eight years ago with our family from California so that we could have a more true American lifestyle. We have a “Hobby Farm” full of chickens, goats, cows and horses. Our family enjoys trail riding and we’re going to take our horses to the Coast for a vaca on soon.

Together, my Husband and I opened SportClips and have the only two franchise loca ons in Vancouver, soon to be three. We share responsibili es and both hold other jobs.

My husband and I met through an old fashioned video da ng service... well actually, its more like my future motherin-law set us up. I met her through my job at the me. We talked on the phone and he was hooked. He proposed a few months later on a sunset dinner cruise in Cabo San Lucas and we haven’t looked back since.

One word of advice for you, Grant as a new dad: Make the me to savor the li le things. Also take a ton of pictures!

One of our favorite ac vi es in the world is scuba diving. We are all cer fied and we love go as a family when traveling to Hawaii or Cancun. Our kids are 22, 19 and 9.

I am proud to be a five gallon donor for the American Red Cross.

Kristeen Millet of SportClips sits down with Grant Winters of Washington State University

]

PATTY CARROLL

RED COATS

[

Patty Carroll of Business Outcomes Consulting sits down with Leroy Santiago of Global Security

As a new Ambassador and Chamber Member, I am a rookie. My husband of 26 years and I own Business Outcomes Consul ng based in the Riverview Bank Building right in downtown Vancouver.

Most people do not know that I was Miss Clark County in 1976 and that I’ve been ac ve in the local pageant industry as a judge and host.

My husband and I had our first dance at a friends birthday party. He asked me to marry him on our second date, it

took me a li le while longer to say yes. We were married six months later.

In the 1990’s we moved out of the area to Georgia and moved back in 1999. We’ve shared three kids and six grandchildren; who are very ac ve and play in a variety of sports, locally. We sat 37 family members down for Thanksgiving Dinner last year.

We spend most of our free me working on our century old house, which is a converted church in the heart of Vancouver. There is always a project to be done, repurposing is one of my favorite hobbies.

LEROY SANTIAGO

I was one of the FIRST Ambassadors, beginning in 1986. Over my years in Vancouver, I’ve represented four businesses at the Chamber. Currently, I am at Global Security.

Many people might not know that I was a High School State Champion long distance runner, then joined the Navy.

While sta oned in San Diego I met my Bride. She picked me at a roller ska ng rink for a “Ladies Choice” dance.

We’ve had a great life with three kids and six grand children, many of which enjoy ac ng and singing in Chris an youth theater.

They recently performed in Fiddler on the Roof. We’ve got family roots in entertaining. Mother was a singer, father played the Ukulele.

In the 1990’s I moved out of the area to Spokane then to Hawaii. The Hawaiian culture runs deep. Locally in Vancouver there is a great fes val in the end of July run by the Ke Kukui Founda on. I highly recommend the Friday night event.

Photos by Aevum Images

GVCC RIBBON CUTTING EVENTS

T

he “Red Coat” Ambassador Team in ac on during the GVCC’s Spring me Ribbon Cu ng Events!

New Location!

Perkins & Company 805 Broadway, Suite 405 Vancouver, WA 98660

You can find members of the GVCC Ambassador Team on loca on at a number of events all over southwest Washington - year round.

They volunteer their me to the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce in an effort to celebrate the business community. This fanfare is cri cal to the success of our Ribbon Cu ngs; these events bring a en on to local businesses and the people behind them that make them successful.

Without your friendly, dedicated Ambassadors the Chamber wouldn’t be as effec ve in being the area’s number one ribbon cu ng ou it! The Ambassadors bring a wealth of knowledge, local connec ons and personality to every event they a end.

Ambassadors o en serve as new member mentors! Do not be shy in approaching an Ambassador during an event with any queson you have or to let them know that you’re new! They’d be happy to introduce you to members in your industry or to the people you need to meet!

Anniversary!

TigerStop 12909 NE 95th St Vancouver, WA 98684

Annual Event

White Oak Alpacas 39908 NE 12th Avenue Woodland, WA 98674

Educa onal Opportuni es for Children & Families 17800 SE Mill Plain Blvd, Ste 150 Vancouver, WA 98683

The Gardner School of Arts & Sciences 16413 NE 50th Ave Vancouver, WA 98686

Ba le Ground Health Care Free Clinic 11117 NE 189th Street Suite 216 Ba le Ground, WA 98604

AllFate Industrial Supply, LLC www.allfateindustrial.com

Jantzen Beach Modern Den stry 12239 N Center Avenue Portland, OR 97217

Walmart Neighborhood Market 2201 Grand Blvd Vancouver, WA 98661

Clark County Family YMCA 11324 NE 51st Cir Vancouver, WA 98682

Visit

www.VancouverUSA.com

for more info

VANCOUVER

VISION

Magazine

17

UPCOMING CHAMBER PROGRAM

GVCC Outlook: Chamber Seeks Award Nominations, Hosts Annual Event on September 9th at the Hilton The Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce is currently looking for nominees in four award categories for the Annual “Business and Leadership Awards.” Award nomina on forms can be downloaded at vancouverusa.com or picked up at the Chamber office at 11th and Broadway from 8-5pm Monday-Friday.

The four awards available to local businesses are: Business Community Builder Award (Small and Large Categories), Community Statesman Award, Community Champion Award and new to the lineup in 2013 is the Business Start-up to Watch award. Nominaon forms are due on Friday, August 15th to the GVCC via email or hard copy.

Last years recipients: 2013 Community Builder Award LARGE BUSINESS Recipient: Riverview Community Bank Riverview Community Bank has served southwest Washington since 1923 when a small group of ci zens founded the organiza on on a desire to see and spread success in the community.

Ninety years later, Riverview con nues to fulfill that vision, ac vely suppor ng over 100 nonprofit organiza ons each year through volunteering, par cipa on, dona ons, sponsorships and in-kind giving. Last year alone, Riverview contributed over $200,000 to nonprofits in our region, suppor ng children, veterans, animal and healthcare services, as well as the arts, culture and educa on. Riverview is the only bank based in Clark County; it’s a commitment demonstrated every day by the bank’s employeeowners who regularly donate their me and talent. Riverview representa ves sit on more than 35 local nonprofit boards.

2013 Community Builder Award SMALL BUSINESS Recipient: Dr. Tyler Pritchard of Pritchard Orthodon cs Dr. Tyler Pritchard is a dental specialist in Orthodon cs and Dentofacial Orthopedics. He received both his general den stry and specialty training in orthodon cs at Loma Linda University in Southern California. When asked why he chose orthodon cs for his career, Dr. Pritchard says, “One of the best services I offer is the increase in self esteem that comes from a great smile.” In November of 2013 Pritchard Orthodon cs begun occupancy of the recently renovated building at 411 West Main Street in Ba le Ground.

2013 Community Statesman Award Recipient: Clark County Commissioner Steve Stuart

Stuart was nominated for his work creating Parks and Playing Fields in the community, streamlining the permitng process, and for his current efforts to lessen the adverse imGVCC CEO Kelly Love Parker Presenting at the 2013 Business & Leadership Awards. pacts of new environmental regulaons causing hardships for Clark County developers and businesses. Stuart grew up in Ridgefield. He was appointed as a County Commissioner in 2004.

He was elected to the posi on in 2005, 2006 and 2010. Previously he worked as Execu ve Director for Friends of Clark County and is on the Board of Directors for the Dream Big Community Center. In April, he stepped down as Comissioner to serve as the City of Ridgefield City Manager.

2013 Start-Up To Watch Recipient: Michael Hippert of Pangea Motors Pangea Motors is pioneering technology for al-

terna ve electric transporta on op ons. Their “Comet” is a new 16-passenger vehicle that is beginning its test run in the Phillipines. See an update on Pangea motors on page 22 of this magazine.

2013 Community Champion Award Recipient: Billy Henry of Northwest Associa on for Blind Athletes Billy Henry is the co-founder and Execu ve Director of the Northwest Associa on for Blind Athletes. He started the organiza on in 2007 at 15 to provide sports and fitness opportuni es to people who are blind and visually impaired. The organiza on served six students the first year, and now provides opportuni es to over 1,000 youth and adults with visual impairments across Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana. He is also a student at Clark College in Vancouver, WA pursuing a transfer degree in Business Administra on.

The 2014 Business and Leadership Awards will be given out September 9th at the Chamber’s Annual Installa on event. The 2014 event theme will be: It’s a Whole New Ballgame! This will be a fun filled event with great networking, honoring the Chamber’s Board of Directors. The Chamber Chairman of the Board will pass the baton, and new members will be installed for their terms.

Great sponsorship opportuni es are avail-

SUMMERTIME CRUISIN'

Raising Money for Local Kids!

Every Wednesday Nite!

Guaranteed Fun All Summer Long, 4-10pm Portland International Raceway, Delta Park It’s more than a Car Show...

It’s a Cool Community Event!

Cool Rides * Drag Races * BBQ & Bar * Band Games, Prizes & More.... Fun for Everyone!

Info- Call Ali at 699-1592

UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENT DATES

Saturday JULY 19

The Pit Stop Beer/Wine Event

Tuesday JULY 22

Wednesday AUG 6

Wednesday AUG 13

Business After Hours @ Fringe

SW WA Leads & Needs

The GVCC’s Resource Network

able during the Chamber’s Annual Event and Business & Leadership Award Presenta on.

As a sponsor you can present an award (pictured below Jody Campbell of the Columbian presen ng the Community Champion Award).

For sponsorship informa on please contact Teresa Lawwill, the GVCC’s Community Relaons Director at tlawwill@vancouverusa.com or by phone (360) 567-1090.

PRINTING

Friday AUG 15

BLA Nominations Forms Due

Tuesday SEPT 9

GVCC Annual Event & BLA

Kelly Love Parker, GVCC CEO

W

e know that Clark County is filled with talented, innovave and extremely interes ng people. This is why we’re happy to shine a light on five in 2014. These people are all very different and celebrate the diversity we have in Southwest Washington.

One element is constant among them all: they’re extremely commi ed to our community.

Over the next five pages you will meet an innovator and a rising star. You will also meet a woman entering her poli cal career and a woman who’s paved the way for many. Plus, a man responsible for many of the fantas c improvements in downtown Vancouver.

Please celebrate these Clark County residents, business owners and volunteers in the Vancouver VISION Magazine’s first ever designa on of “Clark County’s Most Interes ng People.”

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www.VancouverUSA.com

for more info

VANCOUVER

VISION

Magazine

21

CLARK COUNTY’S MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE OF 2014 Michael Hippert: The Innovator It’s a very exci ng me for Michael Hippert and his team at Pangea Motors, LLC. Last year the company received the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce’s 2013 “Start up to Watch” award and were also the Vancouver Business Journal’s “2013 Start-up of the Year.” It’s no surprise. Crea ve, hardworking and dedicated are a few words that describe the team at Pangea who created the “Comet,” an acronym for City Op mized Managed Electric Transport. The prototype was unveiled last year in Vancouver, Washington and its debut drive was along the streets of Esther Short Park.

Since then, Hippert and his staff have been splitng their me between their Vancouver, Washington headquarters and their manufacturing facility in Manila, Philippines. Global Electric Transportaon (GET), Pangea’s sales and service partner, has purchased 300 vehicles already, with an addi onal agreement for 10,000 Comets over the next 3 years for the Metro Manila market alone. The first 30 vehicles assembled in Manila will hit the streets this summer for the first fleet managed route.

The Comet is a 16-passenger electric bus that can travel up to 35 mph. It is powered by a lithium battery pack with a capacity to drive up to 60 miles before recharging. With it’s quiet, fully electric drive system, it helps address the growing air pollu on problem that severely impacts healthcare costs in Manila. The Comet will be used to replace the ageing fleet of diesel powered Jeepneys in Manila, which contribute a significant por on of the region’s soot and smog and are dependent on imported oil.

This April, President Barack Obama stepped into Pangea’s Comet for the first me at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Manila. He was pleased with the project and saw a poten al worldwide soluon for helping reduce air pollu on. Following the President’s tour, US Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker visited the Philippines and shared her thoughts on Pangea, sta ng “This is the very defini on of a win-win for both our na ons in a modern global economy”.

In Vancouver, Washington, Pangea employs about a dozen people, and is growing globally. Through their partnership with GET in the Philippines, Pangea will purchase roughly $200 million dollars in components that will come from US manufacturers over the next three years. Pangea has also been contacted by several other Asian na ons inquiring about bringing the Comet to their countries. The future is looking bright for Pangea Motors, LLC.

Photos by Kate Singh of Aevum Images

Nan Henriksen: The Facilitator On May 27th Nan Henriksen’s role as chair of Clark County Freeholders officially ended. However, she isn’t taking the summer off now that the Clark County Charter will move to a vote of the people in November. The task at hand is large: organizing the troops for a pro charter campaign that includes, campaign management, fundraising, volunteer coordina on and marketing. She is up to the task and has help from both sides of the aisle. Garry Lucas, Clark County Sheriff and Be y Sue Morris, former Clark County Commissioner are cochairing this official effort, backed by ClarkFORWARD. “We have an opportunity to make simple changes that will result in be er government for our County,” explained Henriksen. This new charter will bring three major changes, with the ability for future updates by the voters. It will replace our commissioner form of county government with a council-manager government, provide be er representa on by having five council posions instead of three and allow for local ini a ve and referendum. “There were a lot of other things we could have changed, but we wanted to keep any changes to the charter simple and cost effec ve,” she said.

While Nan Henriksen could be relaxing in Camas and enjoying her family and grandson, she was encouraged to run for freeholder by her daughter who said this process was in need of her leadership and organiza ons skills. “I felt I could offer a lot because I wasn’t adamant about any par cular elements of the charter and that I could lead the group through the process with civility, respect and compromise,” said Henriksen. Henriksen was elected chair by her freeholder peers via a unanimous vote.

The process the group underwent can be illustrated by the issue of increasing the number of Clark County Commissioners. While the group easily agreed upon increasing the number to five, the method in which they would be elected was more difficult. At first, the group decided to use the exis ng method of running in a district, but being elected by a County wide vote. A er many discussions it was determined that there would be four districts with the voters in those districts electing their own council member, and one at-large county wide council member who would serve as the chairperson. “This was a compromise for many and some minds were changed through our process of civil discussion,” explained Henriksen.

Looking back, Henriksen was inspired by Val Ogden to run for the freeholder posi on. When she opened the Columbian and saw an ar cle about Ogden running for Freeholder at 89 years old, she thought “Nan you’d better get off your duff and file... And I did,” said Henriksen.

I hope you join me in November by vo ng YES on the Clark County Charter!

CLARK COUNTY’S MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE OF 2014

Jose ScoƩ: The Next GeneraƟon Leader On Wednesday, March 26th hundreds of people filled up the Vancouver Hilton for the Fort Vancouver Na onal Trust’s Marshall Award Dinner.

This event was designed to, not only, honor the memory and legacy of General George C. Marshall, but seek out and iden fy future leaders, who embody his principles. Two awards were given out that night. The first, was for an emerging leader under the age of 35, called the Marshall Public Leadership Award. The second, was for a gradua ng High School senior who has shown outstanding leadership, personality and promise. This Marshall Youth Leadership Award was presented to Jose Sco of Fort Vancouver High School.

When his name was called as the winner, there was an outburst of emo on. He made his way to the stage and was presented with a plaque.

Sco shook hands, took a picture and then he le the stage. No speech. Every person in the room wanted to hear him speak. So, we at the Chamber decided to ask him what he would have said that night: “I have always been taught that in life you should do as much as you can for others and expect nothing in return. Being chosen as the recipient of the general George C. Marshall youth leadership award was such a surprise for me. It makes me extremely happy to see that our efforts for change has not gone unrecognized.

My friends and I have tried to make a difference in our school and community. They deserve just as much credit for what we have done, as I do.

My family has done so much for me and pushed me to follow my dreams and achieve my goals.

I was honored to be named the recipient of this award. I hope to make my family, friends, and school proud. They have played such a crucial role in the success of our clubs and our community project efforts.

I want to specifically thank my nominators, not only for believing that I was worthy for such an award, but also for accompanying me at the event. My classmates Jenin, and Ronesha were also nominated. I want to thank my aunt Fa ma, and my sister Shakayla for coming along with me and for cheering me along throughout the whole process. I want to thank my fellow nominees for what they do in their communies. There is a reason we were all nominated, and the truth is that we all deserve to be winners. Thank You!” - Jose Sco .

Photos by Kate Singh of Aevum Images

Alishia Topper: The Game Changer Last year, Alishia Topper decided to change her life. The combina on of an inspiring dinner conversa on among friends; and the me for those words to sink in during a 21 mile training run, resulted in her decision to run for office. Her sights were set on the Vancouver City Council.

Her opponent was Jeanne Stewart, who’s held that posi on since 2001 - a highly respected Independent with a long poli cal career and three campaign/elec on cycles under her belt.

A er months of hard work, door knocking, and campaigning Topper was elected and sworn into office on December 31st, 2013 and will serve through 2017. “The more people I meet the more op mis c I become. We have smart, engaged and caring ci zens who want what’s best for the city. I am looking forward to the next three years,” explained Topper.

So far, the toughest issue she’s dealt with is the complex issues surrounding the Tesoro-Savage Energy Distribu on Terminal. As a self iden fied “Type A” personality, Topper prides herself on her research. She talks to experts, reads available literature and speaks with those who will be impacted by the decision. “This allows me to stand behind my posi on,” she explained.

Recently, Topper made another difficult decision; to let go of her posi on at the Fort Vancouver Na onal Trust as the Senior Director of Development. She will be spending the Summer focusing on Council work and her family.

In her career, Topper has raised over $8 million in private support for various nonprofits and causes she’s been a part of or spearheaded.

Addi onally, she donates her me as a Board Member for Columbia Credit Union, the Vancouver’s Downtown Associa on, the Vancouver USA Regional Sports Commission, and the Rotary Club of Vancouver Metro Sunset.

Topper is also well known for her athle c talents, she was named a 2000 NCAA Division I AllAmerican in Track and Field for her marks in the 800-meters and competed in the 2000 Olympic Trials.

CLARK COUNTY’S MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE OF 2014

Photos by Kate Singh of Aevum Images

Ryan Hurley: The Visionary Ryan Hurley has a passion for downtown Vancouver and a deep knowledge of what it takes to make a community thrive. The focus for Hurley Development has primarily been South of Mill Plain between the streets of Columbia and Broadway. This area provides interesting architecture, unique ameni es, great history and a solid infrastructure to build upon. “This area appeared to lack a kind of youthful art and dining culture, social media events and outlets and dis nc ve retail businesses that would keep people a er hours. These missing elements have become a large part of my vision and focus for downtown,” explained Hurley.

Over the past few years Hurley Development has been responsible for a number of buildings that have transformed this area. Hurley’s first project was The Source Rocking Climbing Gym. Then, he took on the Koplan’s Building, which is now occupied by Thai Orchid and Gravitate. “The structures were rich in history with incredible architectural features that made the remodel opportunity very a rac ve to me,” said Hurley. Now, Gravitate owns the two-story structure and Noom and Kat of Thai Orchid own their building. “We never looked back,” Hurley explained.

It has been a tremendous focus of Hurley’s to bring crea ve companies to the downtown area. “Crea ve companies tend to pay high salary wages, love art, food, culture and unique and innova ve start-ups. They have a significant impact on vibe and growth in urban areas,” says Hurley. Hurley has had the opportunity to work with several crea ve companies including: Gravitate, Woobox, Hint Media, Parliament and now Blue Blazes. “I believe strongly that a thriving city must have a thriving digital technology district,” said Hurley.

What is next? For the past year, the Hurley redevelopment team has been working on the remodel of the Sparks Furniture building located at 1001 Broadway Street in downtown Vancouver. The approximately $1.5 million in construc on costs will include a substan al interior and exterior renova on which will have a profound and posive impact on the Broadway/Evergreen Street corridor.

Currently, 85% of the building has been preleased. They are planning on it being fully leased upon comple on of the remodel by early September.

You might not know that Hurley is also the Founder and Director of Detour Ministries – an evangelical Chris an faith based ministry. In his spare me, he oversees all opera ons of Detour both in the United States and in their Kenya Africa branch. He is passionate about his family, work and helping people experience God’s calling in their lives. He ac vely speaks at churches, youth groups and Chris an organiza ons throughout the year.

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