bight | february 2012

February 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber 1 1 Shelton Mason County Chamber February 2012

SHELTONMASONCOUNTY

February 2012

In ThE loopAnnuAl AwArds winners

Congratulations to all nominees – 4

reAl informAtionWhat is the real estate outlook locally? – 7

PAddle to squAxin 2012 Canoe Journey - 12

February 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber 2February 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber 3

SHELTONMASONCOUNTYDear Members,We had a fantastic evening at our 90th Annual Awards Gala at Little Creek Casino on January 20th. This is truly an amazing Chamber. I would like to once again congratulate our award winners…Patti Tupper for Volunteer of the Year, Forest Cooper for Citizen of the Year, and Shelton Life for Business of the Year. A job well done in deed!

Message from Chamber president

board of Trustees

PresidentDrew Macewenfalcon financial, inc.

Past Presidentpatti Case

Green diamond resource Company

Vice President of marketingKathryn Kamin

Hood Canal Communications

Vice President of member servicesMelanie bakala

state farm insurance

treasurerrick Verbarendse

Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club

steve Andrewski, efiHerb Baze

Black star, the strip steakhouseKevin Cronquist

Prudential nw real estatemike Gango, quality Appliance

Bob HouleHoule & Goodell Attorneys, llC

Patti tuppertupper’s floor Coverings & interiors

Mission StatementTo encourage and maintain a vibrant business community, promote tourism and facilitate economic development.

Produced by image in Action design and the Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce as a benefit to members and the community. All rights reserved. for contribution guidelines and advertising call (360) 427-5599.

Shelton Mason County Chamber of CommerceBox 2389 |215 w railroad Avenueshelton, wA 98584426-2021 • (800) 576-2021• fAx 426-8678

www.sheltonChamber.org

bight [bīt] n. 1. A loop in a rope or cable. In logging referred to cable looped around a log when it was moved.

2. A bend or curve. A wide bay formed by such a bend or curve.

For those that were in atten-dance, this is a bit of a repeat as it is what I said at the Gala. But before I “reprint” it here, I would like to point out that Deidre informed me afterwards that in her researching past goals/programs of the Chamber this very concept was presented in 1958! I don’t know what the result of it was, but let us make it happen in 2012.

So here goes…

“I would like to start this off with a quote from Robert Ken-nedy: “Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly.”

Tonight we have honored our past. Let us now look to the future. Consider this… how would our community look if there were 100 new jobs creat-ed here in 2012? I ask you that because that can happen this year. And that will positively affect every one of our business-es from real estate and legal, to dental, construction, retail and everything in between. What is this new company or enterprise that is coming to town you ask? It is you, this room.

The opportunity, and thus the challenge lies right before us. We need to lead the charge, create the change, cause growth that forces us all to hire. If we want to truly move our area beyond a bedroom community, reverse the trend of 50% of our workforce working outside of the county, then we as business leaders need to lead the change. It is no longer enough to be content to sell to each of us in this room; we must take our businesses and grow outside the borders of this county. It is economics 101… to grow; more revenues must come from outside then inside.

We must truly begin to rethink how we look at our busi-ness and make fundamental changes. The tools are here. Through our monthly business builder workshops, our numer-ous networking opportuni-ties, and all of our collective experience we can all step out and begin to capture market share beyond our borders in our respective fields. With over 300 member businesses in this Chamber, if each of us embarks on this we have the great po-tential to make a fundamental change in the economic picture of Mason County.

The reality is, there are some who are comfortable with where their business is and won’t embark on this challenge, and that is ok. There are also some who will strive to and come up short, but yet will lay the groundwork for future growth. And then there are the trailblazers who will do what-ever it takes. So this challenge for the creation of 100 new jobs is based on only one third

of you leading your business in a direction that will force you to hire another person to help handle the growth.

That third is really the ones that are in this room tonight. You are the doers. Obstacles will come up. And when they do, let’s talk. If there is something that the Chamber can do to help navigate those challenges let us know. It is you and your business that the Chamber is here to promote. One of the ideas that emerged from our board retreat is to have a sit down discussion with a different elected official from the various governing bodies each month to foster a better working relationship. And I believe that will help usher in positive change in the business environment.

This is our year. Let us lay the groundwork for the next 90 years. Your Chamber is here to help and support you in any way that it can.

I thank you for your continued support and look forward to hearing the success stories from those of you that answer the call to grow your business in such a way that you have to hire. We can do this. Is there risk? Yes. But as Mario An-dretti said: “If things seem under control, you are just not going fast enough.”

Thank you fellow members and business owners. This is the beginning of the next 90 years.”

Drew McEwen President

February 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber 2February 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber 3 3 Shelton Mason County Chamber February 2012

Message from Chamber executive Director

SHELTONMASONCOUNTY

Newest Members!autism awareness

united3434 martin way e, ste A, olympia

(360) [email protected]

www.autismawarenessunited.orgCommunity Organization

annie’s Quilt Shoppe

927 w railroad Ave, [email protected]

(360) 427-6164Quilting & Sewing Supplies

butkus Consulting, Inc.

290 e fern Creek rd, shelton(425) 281-8113

[email protected]

Business Consultant

Carrie’s CakesPo Box 1092, shelton

(360) [email protected]

Catering

Joonbug yoga

221 railroad Ave, ste 12, shelton(360) 556-6205

[email protected]

Health/Fitness

The paint Machine

2340 se Binns swiger lp rd, shelton(360) 556-6201

[email protected]

Painting ContractorKnow someone else who should join

the Chamber? Please call (360)426-2021

or email [email protected].

I am so pleased with the turnout of our 90th An-niversary and Annual Awards Gala. We had nearly 180 people attend, a huge jump from last year’s 104 attendees. It is even more remarkable when you realize that our chamber has just shy of 350 mem-bers. Thank you all for being active, interested and involved with the Chamber.

Our award winners, Volunteer Patti Tupper, Citizen Forrest Cooper and Business Shelton Life were all deserving. In 2011 they set the bar high, and they continue their generosity in 2012. The time that they volunteer, the needs that they meet and the attitude with which they carry out their ef-forts are what make me proud to be part of this community. Their humility in receiving these awards is remarkable in the sense that they don’t see themselves as any more deserv-ing than the rest of us. But truly, Mason County is a better place to live, work and play because of them.

While preparing the State of the Chamber Address for the Gala, I surprised myself. 2011 was an extraordinary year! Even in the midst of change, we accomplished SO MUCH. Beautification raised over $15,000 to pay for 105 flower baskets and the beauti-ful Christmas decorations (it takes power to light them, you know!).

Business Expo and Bite of Shelton had more participants than ever before- we actually had to turn a few businesses away. This year’s registration form is on our website, so get yours in right away! Mem-ber Services rolled out a new President’s Circle format (and

yes, we heard you and revised the original plan) and worked with Ambassadors to create a New Member Process to help our newest members become involved (16 new member busi-nesses attended the Gala). The two committees also worked together to hold our inaugural golf tournament which raised more than $7,000 for the Chamber and its programs, and Ambassadors were there for everything from events, work-shops, after hours and more than a dozen ribbon cuttings in 2012.

Tourism also did some phe-nomenal things this year. Our three visitor information cen-ters hosted more than 18,000 people and took over 2,800 phone calls. Our tourism website, Explore Hood Canal had nearly 59,000 unique views and, thanks largely to the Woytowiches and Pam Merrill, have photos and video footage of most of Mason County’s events, from the Geoduck Fes-tival to Oysterfest, we are well stocked to promote in 2012.

We also have established a Facebook page, which had over 5,200 unique views looking at our events, blogs and calendar.Marketing had three main goals: Shop Local, LOCAL BUCK$ and our Newslet-ter. Shop Local saw 10 times the exposure it had in last

winter’s campaign and LOCAL BUCKS was a huge success, with more than $2,500 out in our community right now! The newsletter speaks for itself, as you can see… isn’t it amazing?!

Government Affairs did a great job with the Legislative Send Off, researching and reporting on ballot initiatives that di-rectly affect our businesses and created the Shelton Alliance for Viable Economic Revitalization (SAVER) Committee. SAVER is working collaboratively with the City of Shelton in cultivat-ing our downtown core, and has made some strong steps in increasing the activity and economic success in downtown Shelton. What else did we do? We have a new logo, a refreshed website and weekly eBlasts to keep you informed. Our office is painted (thank you Awnaroll) and the Caboose has been re-stored (thanks to StoneyCreek Construction). We now have Deidre, office manager extro-dinaire, and a strong Board of Trustees to continue setting the vision for the Chamber.

If we have accomplished all of the above in a tumultuous year, just think of how much we can accomplish in 2012. So far, things seem to be coming along nicely. So, here is to the next 90 years!

Heidi McCutcheonExecutive Director

2012 board Installation Judge Victoria Meadows presiding — with Victo-ria Meadows, Melanie Bakala, Drew MacEwen, Rick Verbarendse, Steve Andrewski, Patti Case, Kathryn Kamin, Bob Houle and Patti Tupper at Little Creek Casino Resort.


Patti Tupper of Tupper Floor Coverings & Interiors, Volunteer of the Year Award Winner, sharing a hug with Executive Director Heidi McCutcheon

Chamber 90th Anniversary and Awards Gala Nearly 200 community members gathered for the Chamber’s 90th Anniversary & An-nual Awards Gala – a formal affair celebrating 2011. Thank you to keg sponsors Carrie’s Cakes and Falcon Financial and a special thanks to Melanie Bakala of State Farm Insur-ance, our Champagne Sponsor, author of Toast to 2011 (see page 7).

Each year, the Chamber presents three awards: Volunteer of the Year, Citizen of the Year, and Busi-ness of the Year. In previous years, the recipients of these awards have been selected by a committee but this year the Chamber asked its members to both nominate and vote for the winners. The long list of nominees and the overwhelm-ing response to the ballots shows the number of people dedicated to bettering our community – and the desire of our Members to recognize those efforts.Volunteer of the Year nominees were selected for their contribu-tions to the Chamber’s programs and activities. This is someone who has given their time, talent, energy and expertise in an effort to enhance the business community and the community at large.This year’s nominees were Patti Tupper of Tupper’s Floor Coverings, Rick Verbarendse of Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club, and Allison Wagner of Falcon Financial.

2011 Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Patti Tupper, Tupper’s Floor Coverings & Interiors.

Patti and her husband Al are staples of the Shelton business community, owning and operat-ing Tupper’s Floor Coverings for more than eleven years. Patti is an active member of the Chamber’s Beautification Committee, who organizes and fundraises for the beautiful summer flower baskets and Christmas decorations. She helps organize set up, take down, fundraising and advertising. Without her efforts, downtown Shelton would not look nearly as appealing. Patti also heads the Business Expo & Bite of Shelton commit-tee. She manages set up, layout, advertising, updating the materi-als, day-of disaster maintenance and tear down. Because of her experience and her expertise, the 2011 Expo was a well run event and had more exhibitors than ever last year. In addition to serving on these Chamber committees, she is also actively involved with Krist-mas Town Kiwanis who present the annual Christmas Tree Light-ing and the Christmas Parade. Patti continues her active service with a commitment to serve as a Chamber Board Member this coming year.

This Citizen of the Year is an individual who has made out-standing contributions to enhance the business community and the community at large and who has given freely of their time, talent, energy and expertise.

This year’s nominees were For-rest Cooper of Cooper Stu-dios, Stephanie Fyfe of Steph’s Espresso, Rachel Hansen of Image in Action Design & Mason Area Fair, Kim Klint of Mason Matters, Dave O’Connell of Mason Transit Authority, Tom Simmons of The Daisy Pot, and Cheryl Stewart of Our Community Credit Union.2011 Citizen of the Year was awarded to Forrest Cooper, Coo-per Studios. Forrest received accolades this year for his collaborative efforts surrounding The Shelton Neon Project. One nomination cited Forrest as “a whirlwind of vision, passion, & artistic talent!” They went on to say that perhaps best of all, his roll-up-your-sleeves-and-get-it-done attitude has resulted in a much needed “recreation” of Shelton’s commercial face.

Forrest saw an opportunity & jumped right in, infecting others with his enthusiasm, hard work & thoroughness. In addition to his involvement with The Shelton Neon Project, he serves on the Mason County Historical Board and through his and Amy’s busi-ness Cooper Studios, donates services to local schools and non-profits to help promote their works.

The Business of the Year Award is the business that made the most significant contribution benefiting the Shelton and Mason County business community. Any sized business is eligible as the Cham-ber strives to recognize overall contributions to improving our community and business climate.

This year’s nominees were Awn-aroll Painting, Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club, Bakala State Farm Insurance, Cooper Studios, New-man Family Chiropractic, Shelton Chiropractic Center, Shelton Life, and Windermere Real Estate.2011 Business of the Year was awarded to Shelton Life. Launched in March of 2011, Shel-ton LIFE was introduced as the latest in the Kitsap Sun’s roster of community newspapers - each de-signed to uniquely and personally serve a community. Today, Shelton LIFE’s distribution has grown to more than 15,000.

Stephanie Horton of Shelton Life sharing a hug with emcee,

Bob Buhl, on being named Business of the Year!

Forrest received Citizen of the Year award


a ToaST To 2011

Brought to you by Champagne sponsor melanie BakalaState Farm Insurance

90 years ago, many things took placeEskimos pies were created and the first woman won a Senator’s raceAnd believe it or not, nine decades henceThe Shelton Mason Chamber of Commerce did commence

Changes abound since the Chamber’s inception And the year of 2011 was certainly no exception

Early on in the year a new Chamber Exec we heededWe looked high and low and saw Heidi was what we needed.She brought along Deidre, office manager extraordinaire,And with their efforts the Chamber has been on a tear.

A new logo and a newsletter was hailedPlus shop local with local bucks were unveiled.At our first annual tournament, golfers looked to score.And the SAVER group focused on the downtown business core

Numerous businesses joined as new members to our group,Please stand so we can see you, welcome to the troop –

(16 new members who were attending Gala were announced)

There are dozens of folks who volunteer,They serve on the committees and boards that help steer

Lisa Woodard, who’s leaving our board, and Patti our president of past,We thank you for the accomplishments you have amassed.

To new board member Patti Tupper and President Drew, We look forward to your leadership and to your new posts welcome you!

Remarkable years were had by many of our peers,Heritage Bank celebrated 50 years

A new leader is at the helm at Harmony Hill Hood Canal Adventures held their second Geocache drill

The Mason Area Fair was a good time for allWhile the 30th OysterFest was a hit in the fall

We were treated to Opera and Messiah by Anna’s BayAnd Forrest Cooper lit up our downtown way

Each of you, please raise your glassTo our goals for the future and feats of the past

Let’s each of us give abundant cheersto another fabulous 90 years!

Proudly led by Community Pub-lications Director Mike Stevens, Sales Manager Mary Mateo and Editor Stephanie Horton, Shelton LIFE strives to provide an avenue to share information and tell the important and interesting stories of our community and its people - and does so week in and week out with the assistance of the very people it serves. One submission said “It’s something that I look forward to receiving in my mailbox each week and feel proud to share with visitors who don’t know much about Shelton. Stephanie Horton and Mary Mateo are always so pleasant to deal with and have such a professional manner that I am happy to share articles and do business with them.” The event also including the installation of the 2012 Board

of Trustees, presided over by Judge Victoria Meadows where the elected Board committed to uphold the bylaws of the Shelton Mason County Cham-ber of Commerce, to represent the business interests of Mason County, and to work diligently to maintain a vibrant business community, promote tourism, and facilitate economic development.

Executive Director also delivered her State of the Chamber Ad-dress and 2012 president Drew MacEwen made a poignant call to action – challenging the Chamber and its Members to lead the way toward economic growth and job development.

The evening was a wonderful celebration of community, setting the stage for another successful year in Mason County.


a Sage ChoICE

the five dysfunctions of a team A Leadership Fable Patrick lencioni

Every manager and executive will recognize them-selves somewhere in this book. Lencioni recognizes the problems that keep the most talented teams from realizing their potential. Great analysis of what makes teams work.

Take a bIgHT out of bad Weather daniel Brunell emergency management office

With the recent snow/ice/wind storm, there are four issues that state Emergency Management officials asked that we pass along.

• Food spoilage regarding com-mercial and restaurants: Here is a handy PDF packet that the Center for Disease Control put together regarding commercial handing of food in emergencies. Also: here are some guidelines from the FDA.

• Carbon Monoxide: We’ve seen way too many cases of carbon monoxide poisoning this storm. Here is a handy link on the Emergency Management web-site about Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

• Down Power Lines: We are still north of 200,000 homes with-out power in Washington state. One of the big dangers out there is the number of down power lines. Here is a link to a quick video on safety around down power lines.

• Clearing storm drains: Snow blocked storm drains have been causing street flooding throughout the region. While local road crews are working as fast as can, it does help for the local population to shovel clear their local storm drains.

For more information, email [email protected] or call (253) 912-4972. You can also follow the latest updates from Emergency Management by following them on twitter: @waEMD. Finally, be sure to bookmark our Emergency Man-agement business portal at http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_business.shtml.

Traveler Days, a festival welcoming the return of The Traveler and spring, is a special arts-focused public celebration held in Union from Earth Day through Mother’s Day annually.

The Traveler itself is a light-and-shadow effect on the face of Mt. Washington– usu-ally seen as a hooded figure with a walking staff – visible for a few months every spring when the snow on the mountains has begun to melt.

Only visible from the Union, The Traveler has a variety of myths and legends woven about it by both the native and western populations living along Hood Canal.

The Traveler Days celebration features a wide variety of events, all designed to helpvisitors sample Union’s breathtaking views, cuisine, and arts culture. Highlights begin with a series of “Green Acts” celebrating the Earth Day kick off. Celebrations continue with culinary and wine events, live music and spoken word evenings, the annual opening of the Hood Canal Open Market, and the centerpiece event, a combined Artist Open Studio/Tour of Lodging event.

For more information on Traveler Days, visit www.visitunion.com.

union preparing for annual Traveler Days


February eVentsFriday, February 3

11:30 Am - 1:00 Pm

business builder Workshop: business banking

with lisa woodard of West Coast bankGrove street Brewhouse

233 s first st, shelton

Wednesday, February 8business after Hours

5:30 - 7:00 Pm alderbrook golf & yacht Club

Co-sponsored by Falcon Financial, Inc.330 Country Club dr, union wA

Thursday, February 16

6:00 - 8:00 Pm

Monthly Membership Meeting“responsibilty Cultures”

with speaker/ author, randy spitzer - see page 9 sponsored by

Sound learning (mason County literacy)the Pavilion at sentry Park190 w sentry dr, shelton

CoVer IMage

BiGHt In ThE AIRimage credit: SAGE BOOKSTORE

This month’s cover image features the downtown area and Tollie in the snow. Tollie is named after the wife of Simpson Logging Company founder, (Sol Simpson), Mary Garrard Simp-son, whose nickname was “Tollie.

SHELTONMASONCOUNTY

BIGhT oF real INForMaTIoNAndy Conklin | Windermere Real Estate What is happening in the real estate market? Isn’t that the question that we all would like to have an answer to right now?

I spent a majority of 2011 try-ing to determine just what was going to happen to real estate prices and the overall market. Now while I think that I am pretty darn good at analyzing statistics and looking for trends, I am also smart enough to know that none of us are smart enough to know what the future will hold.

In looking back at the Mason County market in 2011 there are a few indicators that I find interesting. Overall the aver-age sale price for residential properties dropped 14%. This may seem a little alarming, but take into account that almost

38% of all of the residential sales reported through the Northwest Multiple Listing Service in Mason County were foreclosure re-sales. Here is the interesting part…the number of units that were sold increased by 5.8% in the same time period. Basically, prices came down while numbers of sales went up.The last time I saw the num-bers of units sold and the prices going in opposite directions, was at the end of 2007. At that time the number of units sold fell 29% as compared with

2006, while the average sale price in 2007 was 9% higher than 2006. This is when the market really started to shift.

What does this mean? To me, not a whole lot. I have just fin-

ished what I would consider a good year. I have helped a number of people take ad-vantage of some good buying opportuni-

ties, of which there seems to be a nice supply right now. I also helped a lot of people sell properties even though their equities had decreased substan-

tially. Most of the time, we had to acknowledge that we weren’t going to get the prices that we would have a few years ago, but that is OK. For the most part, they were going to be buying something else, and the price for what they purchased was a lot lower that it would have been a few years ago too. It was es-sentially a wash.

The activity in the early part of this year has been good so far, and I am not going to spend this year trying to figure out what the rest of the world can’t. I am going to work in the current reality, which is that people still need to buy and sell houses, and I am going to help them do just that.

If you have any questions I am always available to talk.


Weaving a strong business foundation for the

Squaxin Island Tribe’s Future

Keep up to date on

Chamber news and events!

text CHaMberNeWS to

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lIVe, WorK aND playUnion Tourism Association provides sup-port for those who LIVE, WORK, and PLAY in Mason County.

We are proud to announce the 2012 Board: President Pam Hanson of Cameo Boutique & Wine Shop; and Board Members James Bell of SmartMeme Studios; Heidi McCutcheon of Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce; Kayla Heard; Pam Kurpius of Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club; Dana Porter of Porter Marketing Group; Sue Williams of Alder-brook Properties; and Kristina Wunsch of Poppi Photography. Those who WORK here in Washington may benefit from Export Washington – a new program for small business, operated by Washington State. Visit the Depart-ment of Commerce’s online “News Room” for details. Do you LIVE in your books?The William G. Reed Library is offering adult, teen, and children’s reading pro-grams including a “Book Group for Busy People” over the lunch hour. Call (360) 426-1362 or visit www.events.trlib.org for more information.

Before you hire someone to WORK for you, do your research. The Better Busi-ness Bureau (BBB) is a great consumer resource. See BBB’s 2011 Top Complaints and Inquiries on their website now.

If you love to PLAY in our beautiful outdoors, you will be excited to know that Washington State Parks has announced “free days” for 2012. On “free days” the Discover Pass will not be required to ac-cess lands managed by the Washington State Departments of Natural Resources and Fish and Wildlife.

Join local restaurants on February 21 to celebrate Fat Tuesday and raise money to feed seniors who LIVE in the South Sound.

Plan a lunch or dinner out with co-workers and friends a portion of the cost of your meal will be donated to Senior Services for South Sound. A List of participating locations is available on the Chamber website.

Provide a little treat for those birds that lIVe in your backyard. Visit washington department of fish and wildlife’s facebook page for

tips to set up bird feeding station.


preSIDeNT’S CIrCle

platinum Members

gold MembersCommunity financial Center

Generation d Computers & technologyHeritage Bank

KmAs 1030 Amrichard C. downing, dds

west Coast Bank

Silver MembersHarmony Hill retreat Center

American family insurance, Berti s. BrodskyA lighthouse on Hammersley Bed & Breakfast

Randy Spitzer is a much sought-after keynote speaker and has been a guest on numerous television and radio shows across the country. He has a style that is easy and compel-ling, lacing his message with case studies and strong data to support his ideas.

Thursday, February 166:00 - 8:00 Pm

Monthly Membership Meeting

“responsibilty Cultures”with speaker/ author, randy spitzer

sponsored by

Sound learning (mason County literacy)

the Pavilion at sentry Park190 w sentry dr, shelton

On Thursday, February 16, Randy comes to the Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce to share excerpts from his latest book, Take Responsibility - How the best organizations in the world survive in a down economy and thrive when times are good. The meeting is sponsored by Sound Learning (Mason County Literacy) and will be held at the Pavilion at Sentry Park from 6:00-8:00 pm.

Randy Spitzer has written and imple-mented leadership and organizational development courses for Pepsi-Cola Bottlers in the Pacific Northwest and TCI Cablevision of Washington (now Comcast.) He was a curriculum de-velopment consultant and trainer with Anheuser-Busch, Inc. Mr. Spitzer was the leadership coach for four of their re-gional vice-presidents, and helped imple-ment Anheuser-Busch’s Commitment to Excellence program in more than ninety wholesalers across the country.

Mr. Spitzer has long been active in civic affairs; he is currently a board member of the Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Gig Harbor. He also served for a time as chairman of Century Financial Services (now CUNA Mutual) of Western Washington and was a Certified Financial Planner(CFP.) A graduate of Pacific Lutheran Uni-versity, Randy began his career as a music educator. While teaching in the public schools, he served for a time as Vice President of Washington Music Educators Association.

Even though music is no longer his vocation, he continues his avocation as co-composer in residence and ar-tistic director of Cora Voce (Chorus of Voices) based in Tacoma, WA.

He and his wife live in Port Orchard, Washington

Spring into ACTIon!The sun is just around the corner. Promise.

Can you believe it’s February al-ready? With all this crazy weather it’s hard to imagine that the rain will ever stop – let alone the snow melt! But it will. Just this morn-ing I noticed the timid adventur-ous tips of bulbs peeking through the soaked ground.

What does this mean to you, a business in Mason County? It’s time to grab a cup of tea, warm your toes by the fire... and let the

creative juices flow! When the sun comes you will be too busy to plan your attack. Now’s the time to set your course for Spring!

Your new chamber newsletter provides that opportunity. You are invited to share your stories, events, announcements – consider this a advertising tool that can reach thousands in high quality print and online.

Inclusion of Member stories is free of charge. Simply send us your text and images and we will make sure your message reaches your friends, neighbors and fellow members.

As tourist season approaches, remember that this magazine will be used to target visitors to our county. Additional copies will be sent to neighboring chambers as well as sent on marketing journeys throughout the State.

We are excited to be able to offer this publication to our Members, their customers, community visi-tors, and regional Visitor Informa-tion Centers.

We hope that you will be able to share your business’ events and achievements in this forum.


MCra and Sandhill park Sponsorships

Tournament play on weekends, League play with both youth and adults during the week and also on weekends, local schools play both baseball and softball..... all these youth and adult teams will be playing at MCRA and Sandhill Park again in 2012 and will be a great opportu-nity to promote your business or interest.

For as little as $200 sponsors can purchase space for a 3.5 x 8 sign on outfield fence. Prices range up to $900 for a two-year dugout sponsorship.

MCRA see’s an average attendance of 120,000 to 140,000 people during the year to give you an example of possible exposure!!!

Call (360) 427-9670, ext.669 for information on the sponsorship program for 2012. Please pass along to anyone who you think might be interested too.

Nearly 77% of puD 3 electricity Comes from renewable Sources while 89% of energy used by puD 3 Customers is Carbon Free

Joel myer, Public information & Gov’t relations mgr, mason County Pud no. 3

Mason County PUD No. 3 today released its annual report on its sources of electricity. For another year, customers can be pleased about PUD 3’s mix of energy sources.

“all abouT HealTHy SNaCKS!” – Feb-ruary TopIC aT MgH SHelToN DI-abeTeS SupporT group MeeTINg Snacking in between meals is something everyone needs to be conscious of, and those with diabetes, in particular, need to know which snacks are right for them. This will be the subject of the next Mason General Hospital Shelton Diabetes Support Group meeting entitled, “All About Healthy Snacks!” set for Thursday, February 16, 2012 from 1 to 2 p.m. in the Ellinor Room at the Hospital.

Presenting the class will be Debbie McGinnis, R,N., diabetes nurse educator at MGH’s Diabetes Wellness Center. Debbie will discuss healthy choices for snacks, as well as when, and how much to eat, and the potential health benefits. Family mem-bers of those with diabetes can get on a healthier snack-ing plan too, and are encour-aged to attend. There will also be time set aside for questions and answers.

The Shelton Diabetes Support Group, affiliated with the American Diabetes Associa-tion, meets at the Hospital every third Thursday of the month from September to June. It is free and open to people with type 1 and 2 dia-betes, their friends, and family. For more information call Sue Barwick, R.N., C.D.E. at (360) 427-7332 (from Allyn (360) 275-8614, and ask for the Diabetes Wellness Center).

According to the report, which is based on the Washington State Department of Com-merce’s “Utility Fuel Mix Report for 2011,” 77 % of the wholesale electricity purchased by the PUD comes from renewable sources, such as hydroelectricity, and qualify-ing energy sources under the Washington State Energy Independence Act (Initia-tive 937). Nearly 12 % of the electricity comes from the Columbia Generating Station, a nuclear power plant in south-central Washington.

According to the study, only 11 % of the PUD 3 electricity comes from fossil fuel plants. Legislation passed in 2000 directed electric utilities in

Washington to report their fuel mix to customers. The 2010 fuel mix (reported in 2011) for PUD 3 listed as a percentage of the total is: Mason County PUD No. 32010 Fuel Mix:

Hydroelectric 76%Nuclear 12%Coal 8%Natural Gas 3%Wind 1%Biomass 0Waste 0Petroleum 0Landfill Gases 0Other 0Cogeneration 0Geothermal 0Solar 0Total 100%

In general, public utilities tend to have a much cleaner mix of energy sources than other power providers in the Pacific Northwest.

Of the utilities in Washington State that are subject to the Washington State Energy In-dependence Act (I-937), public utilities have a small percent-age of their fuel mix in fossil fuel plants.

The fuel mix for these 14 public utilities averages about 12 percent from coal and gas plants. For the three large investor-owned utilities, nearly 36% of their fuel mix includes coal and almost 22% natural gas for their energy.

Photo Credit to Jessica Ensslen


February CHaMber aND CouNTy eVeNTSFebruary 1

t’ai Ji with Chungliang10:00 Am - 4:00 Pm

Harmony Hill retreat Center7362 e state route 106, union

lunch leads Group11:30 Am - 1:00 Pm steven’s on railroad

203 w railroad Ave, shelton

union tourism Association meeting

12:00 – 1:00 Pm at Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club

330 Country Club dr, union

February 2Groundhog day

February 3

Business Builder workshop11:30 Am - 1:00 Pm

Grove street Brewhouse233 s first st, shelton

Business Banking with Lisa Woodard of West Coast Bank

February 4mC Concert Association presents Buffalo rome

7:00 Pm at shelton High school Performing Arts Center

3737 n shelton springs rd, shelton

February 7

Chamber Governmental Affairs Committee meeting7:30 Am roosters restaurant

3001 olympic Hwy n, shelton

morning leads Group7:30 - 9:00 Am location tBd

Chamber Ambassadors Committee meeting

12:00 - 1:00 Pm Grove street Brewhouse

233 s first st, shelton

February 8Chamber marketing Committee meeting

8:00 Am at the Chamber office

215 w railroad Avenue, shelton

Business After Hours5:30 - 7:00 Pm

Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club330 Country Club dr, union

lunch leads Group11:30 Am - 1:00 Pm

steven’s on railroad203 w railroad Ave, shelton

February 9

Chamber finance Committee meeting

7:30 Am at the Chamber office

215 w railroad Avenue, shelton

February 13united way Valentine

dessert & Gift Auction11:30 Am - 1:00 Pm

at the shelton Civic Center525 w Cota st, shelton

February 14Valentine’s day

morning leads Group

7:30 - 9:00 Am location tBd

Chamber member services meeting12:00 - 1:00 Pm

steven’s on railroad203 w railroad Ave, shelton

February 15

sAVer Committee meeting7:00 Am

roosters restaurant3001 olympic Hwy n,

shelton

lunch leads Group11:30 Am - 1:00 Pm at steven’s on railroad

203 w railroad Ave, shelton

February 16monthly membership

meeting6:00 - 8:00 Pm

the Pavilion at sentry Park190 w sentry dr, shelton

sponsored by sound learning (mason County literacy)

February 17

Chamber Board meeting7:30 Am

Chamber office215 w railroad Ave, shelton

February 20President’s day

February 21

morning leads Group7:30 - 9:00 Am location tBd

fat tuesday fundraiser for

meals on wheelsPresented by senior

services for south soundlocal restaurants (list coming soon)

February 22

lunch leads Group11:30 Am - 1:00 Pm steven’s on railroad203 w railroad Ave,

shelton

February 28morning leads Group

7:30 - 9:00 Am location tBd

Chamber Business

Planning Committee meeting6:00 Pm

Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club330 Country Club dr, union


Landing July 29th -- Potlatch to August 5th

On July 29, 2012, The Squaxin Island Tribe will host the 24th Annual Canoe Journey, an inter-tribal celebration of Pacific Northwest canoe culture and tradition. More than 100 canoes will land at the Port of Olympia with thousands of people joining together to welcome each arrival. our highways are waterways For centuries, Pacific Northwest tribal people navigated the waterways in intricately carved dugout canoes. The Salish Sea, the body of water that encompasses Puget Sound, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Strait of Georgia in Canada, was the central force that con-nected canoe cultures for inter-tribal communication and trade. But early federal government mandates outlawed many tribal tradi-tions, resulting in the almost lost art of canoe building, and ceremonial practices.

There were 7,000 attending the Paddle to Swinomish land-ing at LaConner on a rainy Monday, July 25th, 2011. In 2009, 15,000 witnessed Paddle to Seattle at the Suquamish Tribe. Our Paddle to Squaxin landing will be on a Sunday at the Port of Olympia which is adjacent to I-5. So we expect thousands too.

HistoryIn 1989, the Canoe Journey event, originally called “Paddle to Seattle”, was organized as a revival of the canoe cul-ture traditions and the Native American contribution to the Washington State Centennial. Today, tribes from Washing-ton, Oregon, Hawaii, Canada, New Zealand, Japan and the Seminole Tribe in Florida participate.

Canoes From afarThe Bella Bella, from British Columbia, will travel more than 1,000 miles over 23 days. As the canoes arrive at the host site on July 29th, each canoe family asks for permission to come ashore, according to their own culture and protocol. Pad-dles are raised, signifying “We come in peace.” The Squaxin Island Tribe will then host a week of traditional potlatch

ceremonies and festivities with daily performances by dancers, singers and storytellers.

public invitedPotlatch ceremonies and per-formances will continue after the landing to Kamilche at the Squaxin Island Community. The public is welcome but is asked to respect ceremonies, while in the protocol tent. Pot-latching begins on July 30th and ends on August 5th.

Teaching of our ancestors The Squaxin Island Tribe has chosen to honor the Teach-ings of Our Ancestors as the guide for the 2012 Canoe Journey. “These teachings are the center of our lives and cultures, as it is our ancestors that teach us that we must care for our elders, each other, our children, and the earth because each is a part of our past, pres-ent and future,” said Charlene Krise, Squaxin Island Museum Executive Director. The Canoe Journey is a reflection of this connection.

It will take more than a Tribal Village to create a successful cultural experience.

partners The contemporary names of our ancestral lands are used to designate sponsorship levels to honor our place names. Each of these inlets is equally im-portant to who we are as the People of the Water:• Noo-Seh-Chatl, Henderson Inlet• Steh Chass, Budd Inlet • Squi-Aitl, Eld Inlet • Sawamish/T’Peeksin, Totten Inlet• Sa-Heh-Wa-Mish, Hammersley Inlet• Squawksin, Case Inlet • S’Hotle-Ma-Mish, Carr Inlet

you Can Help Community and business sponsors and donors are ap-preciated. All donors will be recognized at the appropriate level in the program. Donors of $5,000 or more will be listed on the Paddle to Squaxin website and recognized from the podium during the 5-day hosting protocols.

The Paddle to Squaxin 2012 Event Committee also welcomes in-kind donations of supplies and/or services. Everything from duct tape, to soup and nuts is appreciat-ed! Think of it! Our commu-nity will grow by over 1000% for a week.For questions about the jour-ney visit www.PaddletoSquax-in2012.org; for sponsorship contact canoe journey coordi-nator, Debbie Meisner, at (360) 432-3849.

Would you like to volunteer? There are numerous opportuni-ties for you to participate in the 2012 Paddle to Squaxin, starting soon. Contact volun-teer coordinator, Patti Puhn, at [email protected]. Please use 2012 Canoe Journey Volun-teers in the subject line.

image credit www.PaddletoSquaxin2012.org


February SpeCIal eleCTIoN

A Special Election will be conducted in Mason County on February 14, 2012. The following districts are eligible to vote in the special election: McCleary School District No. 65, Elma School District No. 68, Mary M Knight School District No. 311, and North Mason School District No. 403.

The following measures will appear on the February 14, 2012 Special Election ballot.

Sage attends New orleans booksellers event Carolyn olsen | sage Book store

While Shelton was recently buried in snow and ice at least two citizens were walking the streets of New Orleans, LA., “buried” in books, authors, publishers and fellow booksellers, while attending the 7th annual Winter Institute hosted by the American BooksellersAssociation.

Carolyn Olsen, owner, and Mary Ann Fraser, manager, of Sage Book Store both attended the annual event, enjoying the company of the 60-some authors in attendance, along with the other 500 attendees. Ann Patchett and James Patterson were guest speakers, as well as Douglas Brinkley, author of The Great Deluge, the story of Hurricane Katrina and the impact it had (and still has) on the city and its inhabitants.

In addition to the author events there were also break-out sessions ranging in topics from “How to Incorporate E-Books into Your Business” to “Alternative Financing and Increasing Your Bottom Line”. We personally increased ours by enjoy-ing some of the world-famous food available ~ shrimp, crab, crayfish and the morally imperative beignets and cafe’ au laits from the Cafe’ du Monde. Heavenly!

Our hotel/conference center was located on the corner of Bourbon and Canal streets, so we were privy to the local hu-man flavor of street performers, jazz musicians and offers of any type of entertainment you might imagine, all withing the space of a few blocks. A short cable car ride also took us to the fabled historic waterfront with its timeless architecture and delectable atmosphere.

We’ve returned re-energized in our commitment to continue to provide an independent, locally-owned bookstore dedicated to pampering our many well-read customers and friends and marvelous local authors and artists with personal and knowl-edgeable service. A big “thank you” to all of Mason County and Shelton readers for supporting us as Sage Book Store celebrates its tenth year in business; let the good times roll!

local MeasuresMcCleary School District No. 65, Maintenance and Opera-tions Levy.Elma School District No. 68, Maintenance and Operations Levy.Mary M Knight School District No. 311, School Levy for Educational Support and Operations.North Mason School Dis-trict No. 403, School Levy for Educational Support and Operations.

VotingMason County votes entirely by mail and regular polling places will not be open. Return postage is required to return a voted ballot. You may also return your ballot at one of the designated ballot drop boxes listed below.

Mason County Auditor’s Office, 411 N 5th Street, has an outdoor box open 24 Hours a day and an indoor box avail-able Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Timberland Regional Library, 710 W Alder St , has an out-door box open 24 hours a daywith drive-thru Access

Port of Allyn, 18560 E State Route 3, has an outdoor box open 24 hours a day

North Mason County, 23910 NE State Route 3 in Belfair, with an outdoor Box open 24 hours a day.

replacement ballotsIf you need a replacement bal-lot, you can use the My Vote link to access your ballot online at http://wei.secstate.wa.gov/mason/Elections/MyVote/Pages/MyVote.aspx

You can also obtain a replace-ment ballot at the Mason County Auditor’s Office, 411 N 5th Street, Shelton or by calling (360) 427-9670 ext. 470, (360) 275-4255, or (360) 275-4467.

Accessible voting equipment is available at the Mason County Auditor’s Office during regular business hours January 27, 2012 - February 13, 2012 and on Election Day February 14, 2012 from 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

The voting equipment is avail-able to any voter wishing to use it, but the equipment has special features to allow voters with disabilities to vote inde-pendently.

For information regarding as-sistance with voter registration, voting, or accessibility issues, please call (360) 427-9670 ext. 470.

Persons not already registered in Washington State may register in-person no later than Monday, February 6, 2012 at the Mason County Auditor’s Office. The Auditor’s Office is closed from 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. daily.


“LOCAL BUCK$” are redeemable toward your purchase of goods and services

at many Chamber Member’s businesses. See reverse for participating vendors.

Thank you for choosing to Shop Local and support of your community.

Free Microsoft courses extended through october 2012If your employees use Microsoft software to conduct business, here’s a deal you can’t beat. Employment Security extended its contract with Microsoft to make the company’s entire suite of online courses available for free to Washing-ton residents through October 2012. The offer is open to anyone of working age – both the employed and unemployed. Businesses can use the free training to improve the computer skills of one employee, or even hundreds of employees.

Registration is handled through local WorkSource centers. Visit www.wa.gov/esd/e-learning to learn more or to request access codes. To con-tact your WorkSource center, visit www.go2worksource.com and click the “WorkSource Offices” tab to view locations.

Dor to grant filing extensions to businesses affected by win-ter storm

Gov. Chris Gregoire has asked the Washington State Department of Rev-enue to grant tax return filing extensions to busi-nesses affected by the recent winter storm.

“The heavy snowfall and freezing rain resulted in road conditions and power out-ages that clearly affected the ability of some businesses to file their state excise tax returns on time,” Gregoire said. “I have asked DOR to grant filing extensions to these businesses, and to waive penalties for those unable to meet the deadline. This request merely pushes it back a bit to give our busi-ness owners who need it a much needed break.”

Businesses need to request the extension prior to the Jan. 25 due date for monthly filers or the Jan. 31 due date for quarterly and annual filers.

“We realize this is short notice for monthly filers. A business that is not able to request an extension prior to the due date may still request a penalty waiver for late filing penalties due to circumstances beyond their control,” Flaherty added.

Businesses should call (800) 647-7706 to request an extension. Penalty waivers must be requested in writing and can be submitted in the department’s electronic filing system or to [email protected].

Shop local, give loCal buCK$

You can do both by giving the gift of LOCAL BUCK$. LOCAL BUCK$ are a community gift certificate that are accepted at more than 30 locations county-wide. They are the perfect gift for family, employees and friends and by purchasing LOCAL BUCK$ you are keeping your money in Mason County. Mason County is unique and our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of our distinctive character. Local ownership ensures that important decisions are made locally by people who live in the community and who will feel the impacts of those decisions. You save money by shopping at home. You drive less, save time, and you’d be surprised how often the retail prices are lower as well. You can reduce your environmen-tal impact by cutting out those long drives to the big city.

Your purchases help Ma-son County attract new entrepreneurs and skilled workers. Towns that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character are more successful in recruiting.

You can help in this pro-cess for every $100 spent locally, $74 remains here through sales tax, infra-structure and employment. Shop Local, Give LO-CAL BUCK$.

You can purchase LO-CAL BUCK$ in incre-ments of $5, $10 and $20 at the Chamber Office, Mason County Senior Activities Center or at Nifty Thrifty Thrift Store. LOCAL BUCK$ are redeemed for their full purchase price at the listed businesses.

2nd street design studioAlderbrook Golf CourseAnchor electricAngela’s Beauty BoutiqueBrittany michael’s Hair salonBob’s tavernBayshore Golf CourseCameo Boutique & wine shopCarrie’s CakesCase By Case JewellersGillis Auto CenterGrapevine CateringGrove street BrewhouseHackney family dentistryHealthy Benefits marketHood Canal Adventures

isagenix/living well, inc.lynch Creek farm & floralmaple Glen senior livingmC senior Activities Centernifty thrifty thrift storeolympic Heating & Coolingolsen furniture CompanyPier 101 Gift shop & Boutiquequality Appliance Centersage Book storeshelton Cinemassteph’s espressosteven’s on railroadthe strip steakhousethe dance shackurraco Coffee CompanyVanderwal’s Garage

Brandy Faught, Maple Glen Senior Living

loCal buCK$ businesses

“LOCAL BUCK$” are redeemable toward your purchase of goods and services

at many Chamber Member’s businesses. See reverse for participating vendors.

Thank you for choosing to Shop Local and support of your community.


STaTe’S CHIeF eCoNoMIST To STep DoWN Business ExaminerDr. Arun Raha, the chief economist and executive director of the Washington State Economic and Revenue Forecast Council, announced his resignation today to pursue opportunities in the private sector.

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“Over the last three plus years, it has been an honor and privilege to serve the people of Washington,” Raha wrote in his resig-nation letter.

“It has been a most wonderful experience as I have traveled around the state meet-ing with local officials, businesses, citizens and taxpayers. Of course, I was out raising their spirits and encouraging them to hang in there because the Great Recession too shall pass. But I got much more from them than I expected – the warmth and the affection with which they received me was truly touching. With fine people like that, I continue to be bullish about the state economy’s future.”

Rep. Ed Orcutt, R-Kalama, who chairs the forecast council, said he had mixed emo-tions concerning Raha’s departure.

“I’ve been very happy with Dr. Raha’s work and we will miss his insight tremendously,” Orcutt said.

“He was placed in the very unique and often unenviable position of delivering revenue forecasts that continued to trend into negative territory. He’s worked hard at giving the council members accurate rev-enue collections and forecasts. He’s going to be difficult to replace. However, I know he’s anxious to return to the private sector and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

The council will begin an immediate search for Raha’s replacement. In the meantime, Steve Lerch, who served as the interim chief economist before Raha’s appointment, has agreed to once again step into that role until a new executive director is found.

The next revenue forecast is scheduled for Feb. 16.

Dr. Arun Raha

Shop local, give loCal buCK$


CHeF KerN baCK aT STeVeN’S oN raIlroaD

Shelton, Washington: “Steven’s On Railroad” is considered to be one of the finest restaurants in Shelton and on the Olympic Peninsula. Steven’s has served guests for over 13 years and is uniquely located in the former “Bank of Shel-ton” building, which is on the historical register, adding to Steven’s atmosphere. The location and building make for a great dining experience.

Chef Kern has returned to Ste-ven’s and has become synony-mous with the restaurant.

He brings a list of excellent menu items that we can find to be everyday greats.

He serves up everything from prime-rib sandwiches and fish tacos to fine steaks and rack of lamb.

Kern said, “You can expect a great dining experience for any occasion.” He exclaimed that he is bringing back the flair that we have come to expect from this great local chef.

There are several things that people love about Steven’s and that includes their Caesar dressing, made from scratch, and Kern’s secret spice that adds something to his dishes.

Steven’s sets themselves apart from other restaurants by serv-ing locally produced products like the many flavors of Olym-pic Mountain Ice Cream as well as Walter Dacon wines.

They use local products with an eye towards the best quality of ingredients. This makes for a great dining experience for lunch, dinner, and any occa-sion.

Make your reservations by calling Steven’s at (360) 426-4407.

STIll More Free DayS aT STaTe parKS

Washington State Parks has announced the following “free days,” when the Discover Pass will not be required to visit a state park. A Discover Pass will still be required to access lands managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Following are the 2012 State Parks “free days”:• March 18 and 19 – In honor of Washington State Parks’ 99th birthday on March 19

• June 9 – National Get Outdoors Day• Sept. 29 – National Public Lands Day• Nov. 10 through 12 – Veterans Day weekend

On other days, The Discover Pass ($30 annual or $10 daily) is required for vehicle access to Washington state parks and state-managed recreation lands.For more information, please visit the Discover Pass website at http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov.


BusInEss bIgHT

Ziplocal is everywhere local customers are!

TO ADVERTISE CALL

800.553.0801

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Where local customers search online.

Where local customers search on the go.

leads groups - great opportunity and valueBerti s. Brodsky, American family insurance

Networking… it is essential to marketing your business. No doubt one of the many reasons you chose to join the Chamber of Commerce is to increase your opportunity to network with others in this community. Most would say the goal of net-working is to increase awareness of you and your business within the community, and thereby, increasing your sales. Do this and more by joining one of the Chamber’s Leads Groups.

The direct correlation of your networking to sales is sometimes hard to measure.

By participating in a Leads Group, you are actively participating in an activity directly targeting prospective customers. How suc-cessful do you feel that your business could be if you had a devoted sales force of 10, 15 or 25 people who were all promoting you and your business whenever they met someone who could be a potential customer of yours? If you think this could help your, join one of the Shelton-Ma-son County Chamber Leads groups starting this month!

Two different Cham-ber Leads Groups are forming now and are set to begin regular meetings on Tuesday mornings at 7:30 am for a breakfast meeting and Wednesdays at 11:30 am for lunch. You can choose which the two groups meeting time is best for you, and once you join, you will have an exclusive category membership.

This means that none of your direct competi-tors can compete in this group for the business leads that will come

your way from your fel-low members.

Leads Groups will only be open to Chamber members in good stand-ing for an annual cost of $80. Space is limited and once your category is taken, this opportu-nity will no longer be available to you!

For additional details including complete rules, a category list and an application to reserve your place within this exciting new venture, go to www.sheltoncham-ber.org/leads or contact the ChamberOffice.

Morning groupThe morning Leads Group will be held on Tuesday mornings at 7:30 AM, and will be moderated by Berti Brodsky, American Family Insurance.

Berti’ is the Agent/ Owner of Mason County’s only Ameri-can Family Insurance Agency, located in Shelton, on Olympic Highway.

She has been instru-mental in initiating and organizing leads referral groups since1999, when she began an Olym-pia chapter of “LeTip International”, a leads organization with chap-ters world-wide.

She served as President for that chapter for the first year of its existence. Then, in 2001, she and other members of the group decided to develop an independent, local organization with its own set of bylaws and structure. “Capi-tol Leads Network” was a very successful networking organiza-

tion in Thurston county for a number of years before merging into the Olympia-Thurston County Chamber of Commerce’s Leads group system in 2009.

Berti served in various capacities as President, Treasurer and Board Member at-large. She is uniquely qualified to help the Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce’s Leads/Re-ferral Groups succeed!

lunch groupThe lunch Leads Group will be held on Wednes-days at 11:30 AM, and will be moderated by Melanie Bakala, State Farm Insurance.

Melanie Bakala has been the owner of the local Shelton State Farm Agency since April 2010. Her of-fice strives to provide exceptional experiences for customers that build relationships, earn their respect and trust, and create State Farm cus-tomers for life.

Her agency has received recognition as being one of the top 100 new agencies in the country, and part of the SVP Club recognizing the top agencies in the Northwest.

She has over 17 years experience in market-ing, sales, and sales management in the banking and insurance industries. She is mar-ried to Jim Belleville and has three children: Jimmy, Sierra, and Maddie.

“By participating in a Leads Group, you are actively par-ticipating in an activity directly targeting prospective customers.”

Visit www.sheltonchamber.org/leads for info!


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