Over the past year we have all been tested with some of the darkest days in democracy.  While the worldwide pandemic continually rages through our communities, taking so many of our loved ones with it, we also collectively felt the shock of seeing American citizens storm the bastion of our free and representative government.  I do not think anyone could have predicted that just a year ago we would have to answer the call to rebuff a challenge to the peaceful transfer of power; one of the most important foundational elements to the nonviolent continuation of our democracy.  While we cannot, and will not, ever forget what transpired, we must move on and ensure the ugliness of the recent past never repeats itself.  With an eye on Washington DC, first and foremost, it is time for our diverse community to heal and recover. 
 
Whether you applaud or lambast the changes forthcoming with a new Administration, let us not overlook the work that needs to be done right here at home.  While we do not need to agree on what got us here, the fact remains, we are all here.  Our small businesses are on life support, restaurants and bars are closing permanently, our children are learning online, the vaccine rollout has not met expectation, and yet we also must address systemic racism, the digital divide, affordable housing/homelessness, behavioral health, and the list goes on and on.  Our community needs us all, and we will fail if many of us continue to emulate destructive conversations found on the internet.  Respectful discord will always be a part of our fabric as a society and anything else should be condemned. 
 
It seems like everywhere you turn there are poignant quotes being used from famous historical figures to try and sum up the times.  Personally, I think back to a much simpler adage, “If you aren’t helping, you are hurting.”  We all must dig in and help, as complacency hurts.  To pull our community out of this dark time will require all facets of our population to get our businesses back open, our kids in schools, and vaccines so we can accomplish so much more.  Let us remain vigilant in beating the virus but let us not continue to beat basic decency.  The generations to come will judge us all on how we handle this moment and I ask that we meet the challenge head on, together.
 
Let’s stand and work with great significance together to make the South Sound the most equitable and inclusive place to do business in Washington state.
 
Best wishes,

Tom Pierson
President & CEO
Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber

Spaceworks Tacoma is seeking an enthusiastic Capital Access Manager to launch a new microloan program in partnership with the City of Tacoma and Kiva, an international microlending organization. This position will establish Tacoma as the first Kiva Hub in the Pacific Northwest. Kiva offers 0% interest crowdfunded microloans that range from $1,000 to $15,000.
Download this job announcement as a PDF.
Job Summary
A Capital Access Manager, or a CAM, is a Spaceworks staff member who is trained on how to share Kiva loan opportunities with entrepreneurs and local stakeholders, as well as how to support clients on the back end of the Kiva platform. This is a 1-year pilot program with possible extension into future years. First-year goals include:

• 25 loans totaling $175,000 
• 60% of borrowers are minority, female, and/or low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs
• 6 Trustees (partner organizations who endorse and support borrowers) 

This position reports to the Spaceworks Program Director and works closely with other Spaceworks team members, especially the Incubator Training Coordinator and the Business and Community Development Coordinator. Spaceworks is a program of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit.    
Essential Job Functions

• Partnership & Community Development (40% of time)
  • Engage with community partners, government agencies, and other organizations who support small businesses in Tacoma
  • Build a network of Kiva Trustees 
  • Create public and community presentations about capital access for entrepreneurs 
  • Promote technical assistance programs and services of partners 
• Manage Local Borrower Experience (60% of time)
  • Recruit and review new applications 
  • Monitor metrics to ensure borrowers are meeting Kiva’s goals  
  • Connect borrowers to local Trustees and other technical assistance providers 
  • Help borrowers throughout the fundraising process 
  • Promote local Kiva profiles through Spaceworks and partner marketing efforts 
  • Implement Kiva’s repayment strategy, ensuring that borrowers understand the process and are making their repayments on time
  • Conduct routine monthly outreach and reminders to default-eligible borrowers 

Qualities and Experience
The ideal candidate is passionate about supporting small and local businesses in Tacoma, especially women and minority-owned businesses. Candidates should be:

• Able to work independently 
• Entrepreneurial and collaborative 
• Highly organized, with strong time management skills 
• Strong writers and verbal communicators 
• Active and engaged with business and community partners in Tacoma 
• Experienced in any of these related fields:
  • Small business development and support 
  • Banking and finance, especially microloans 
  • Social work 
  • Government or nonprofit project management 
  • Fundraising and development 
• Enthusiastic about serving others and making Tacoma a great place to live and work

While candidates will receive formal training on the Kiva platform, they should familiarize themselves with Kiva and microlending as they prepare their applications.
Individuals with at least 3-5 years of professional experience are encouraged to apply.
Compensation
This is a non-exempt position. The position is full-time, 40 hours/week. Compensation is offered at $22/hr. Depending on prior experience or existing employment with community partners, alternate work schedules and arrangements will be considered (no less than 24 hours/week). The position requires occasional events and programs on nights and weekends. Work-from-home is authorized through the pandemic; otherwise, the position is based out of an office in downtown Tacoma.
Benefits include:

• 401(k) 
• Short- & Long-term disability insurance 
• AD&D insurance, dental insurance 
• 10 paid holidays, 16 days of paid time off 
• ORCA transit pass 
• Telework package (computer provided and internet stipend) 

License/Certifications/Special Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred and/or related experience 
• Driver’s license and auto insurance 
• High-school diploma or GED required 
• Proficient with MS Office Suite 
• At least 3-5 years of professional work experience 

It is the policy of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber that employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and competence.  Employment practices will not be influenced or affected by virtue of an applicant's or employee's race; religion; color; national origin; age; sex; genetic information; the presence of a sensory, physical, or mental disability; marital status; military status; sexual orientation; gender identity; actual or perceived victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking; or on any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.  This policy governs all aspects of employment, evaluation, promotion, assignment, discharge, and other terms and conditions of employment.
The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber encourages people from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Application Closing Date:
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through the deadline. Interviews will be conducted through January 29, with a final decision announced shortly thereafter.
Anticipated Start Date
Monday, February 15, 2021
This date is flexible, with the understanding that the week-long virtual Kiva training is scheduled February 22, 2021.
To Apply
By Tuesday, January 26, please send a single PDF file that includes a resume and a cover letter that describes your interest and qualifications:
HR@tacomachamber.org
Email Subject Line: Capital Access Manager
Address cover letter to: Michael Liang, Spaceworks Director
Questions?
Email MichaelL@tacomachamber.org
Since 2010, Spaceworks Tacoma, a program of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, has provided business training, public art programming, and creative activation of underutilized spaces throughout Tacoma and Pierce County.
For more information about Spaceworks, please visit:
www.spaceworkstacoma.com
For more information about Kiva Hubs, please visit:
https://www.kivaushub.org/

​

Tacoma City Council recently directed its Planning Commission to begin reviewing and recommending new “non-interim” Industrial Land Use Regulations by April 2021. This process will effectively create new industrial land use regulations, only to then review the same, newly finalized regulations in the Sub-Area Planning process to be debated all over again. The Manufacturing Industrial Council (MIC) for the South Sound objects to this procedural change, as its redundancy creates an untenable situation for business and industry.
“More than three and a half years ago, the Council initiated a subarea planning process for the Port/Tideflats area,” said Frank Boykin, Director for the Manufacturing Industrial Council. “In doing so, they asked the Planning Commission to consider the need for interim regulations in the Tideflats while the subarea planning process was being conducted.”  
The Planning Commission determined interim regulations were warranted and made its recommendation to City Council.  In November 2017, the City Council adopted Tideflats Interim regulations; since then, they’ve voted five times to renew existing interim regulations.  Boykin says the new directive from the October 2020 meeting “may do more harm than good.” 
 
MIC Position: 

1. Business and industry cannot support a circuitous process creating regulations that may only be temporary. We urge support for predictable business practices and a commonsense approach for land use regulations in the Tideflats. Anything less can alienate investment considerations, discourage greener trends, cost us good family wage jobs in Tacoma and essential marine/port, manufacturing, industrial and technological assets that serve the region.
2. MIC wants to preserve and protect existing industrial lands that support Washington’s trade-based economy, industrial scale manufacturing, and family-wage jobs.
3. MIC opposes regulatory mandates that lack transparent economic, health, environmental, and safety impact analysis.
4. MIC urges a review process for heavy industrial use considerations intended for industrial development, to include evolving to greener economic pathways.
5. MIC member industries want regulations consistent with the GMA’s requirement for including a port element in the City’s Comprehensive Plan per RCW 36.70A.085, and consistent with the City’s Port Container element.

 
The MIC believes in a cleaner, fairer future, and supports government processes that invests in a healthy, greener economy.  Facing two distinct, contentious, and potentially long-term processes simply won’t allow businesses to thrive.

Learn more about the Manufacturing Industrial Council for the South Sound at www.micsouthsound.com

Over the past six months, corporate leaders across Washington state have been on a journey to listen, learn, and better understand the causes and impacts of racial inequity in Washington state. They started by gathering data and listening to Black community and business leaders; diversity, equity, and inclusion specialists; and data and research experts. Their findings are included in a new report that clearly documents inequities that Black Washingtonians and their families experience across multiple dimensions of life – including healthcare, education, criminal justice, personal finance, and the corporate workplace. The interrelated effects of these inequities compound over time, cross generations, and exist regardless of socioeconomic status or education level. Further, COVID-19 and the recession are only magnifying disparities. Read the report

The research informed creation of Washington Employers for Racial Equity, a growing coalition that starts with a commitment from 55+ companies, including the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, to build an equitable future for Washington state. The coalition begins with specific goals for 2030, including driving equity for Black Washingtonians in the corporate sector, supporting Black-owned businesses, and pursuing actions and policies that will support equity across Washington communities. Coalition members have a goal to invest a combined $2 billion to support racial equity over the first five years. The ultimate goal is equity and opportunity for all. Read the commitment
​
Washington Employers for Racial Equity is open to all employers and sponsored by a growing list of regional and statewide associations. 

Read the report

Learn about the Coalition

​Tacoma, Wash. (Nov. 2, 2020) – Pierce County, in partnership with Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, Washington Hospitality Association and Travel Tacoma – Mount Rainier Tourism and Sports today announced details of Restaurant Rally, a program designed to save jobs in the restaurant industry in Pierce County.
 
During the Restaurant Rally promotion period of Nov. 8-19, 2020, excluding Fridays and Saturdays, diners simply dine at, or order a takeout meal from a participating restaurant. They will automatically receive 30 percent off their bill, before tax. The discount excludes alcohol and orders via third-party delivery services. More than 200 restaurants throughout Pierce County are participating in the program. A list of participating restaurants, with more being added, as well their operating hours and an interactive map are available at www.piercecountyrestaurantrally.com.
 
The program was funded by Pierce County through the allocation of $7.5 million in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds, in order to help the recovery of the beleaguered restaurant industry. Councilmember Dave Morell brought the program to Pierce County after learning about a similar program in the United Kingdom.
 
Participating Pierce County restaurants that have applied to participate were qualified by being full-service restaurants primarily engaged in food service, and operating within Washington’s Safe Start guidelines. Participating restaurants will be compensated for 50 percent of gross sales, excluding alcohol and sales through third-party delivery services.
 
“The Restaurant Rally is an innovative, combined effort of organizations that support our local businesses and the people who are employed by them," said Betty Capestany, Pierce County Economic Development Director. "It’s vital that we provide a much-needed stimulus for an industry that has been hard hit by the pandemic. At its core, the Restaurant Rally is a fantastic opportunity for people to support their local eateries and save money at the same time.”
 
“We are excited to remind the community of the quality restaurants we have in Pierce County,” said Tom Pierson, President and CEO, Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber. “Pierce County Restaurant Rally is an excellent way to safely enjoy dinning and while helping our local restaurants who have been hit the hardest during this pandemic.”
 
“Pierce County restaurants are important economic drivers, yet they have suffered more than 20,000 unemployment claims in the Pierce County food service industry alone since the onset of the pandemic, with many of our beloved restaurants struggling to survive,” said Anthony Anton, President and CEO of the Washington Hospitality Association. “Kudos to Pierce County officials for directing important federal funds to support these small businesses, which are critical to the local economy. “
 
“Through the Restaurant Rally program, we encourage locals and visitors to support Pierce County’s restaurants however they feel most comfortable: through dine-in or take-out meals,” said Dean Burke, President and CEO of Travel Tacoma – Mt. Rainier Tourism and Sports. “Hospitality and tourism have suffered disproportionately during the COVID crisis, and we are thankful for the opportunity to support Pierce County, the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber and the Washington Hospitality Association in bringing economic relief to these hard-hit industries.”
 
# # #
 
Click here for Pierce County Restaurant Rally images and logos.
 
Media Contact:
Washington Hospitality Association
Jacque Coe, Communications Manager
jacquec@wahospitality.org
(425) 351-0082
 
Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber
Jeff Soifer, Creative Director
jeffs@tacomachamber.org
Office: (253) 627-2175; Cell: (207) 240-1306

Travel Tacoma – Mt. Rainier Tourism and Sports
Matt Wakefield, Sr. Communications Manager
matt@traveltacoma.com
Cell: (206) 412-5080
​
About the Washington Hospitality Association:
Hospitality is the industry that serves. The Washington Hospitality Association delivers wins for the largest group of private employers in the state. The 296,600 jobs the industry provides are the backbone of our state’s economy. The association works at the state and local levels to find proactive solutions to the challenging issues facing the industry and its workforce. It supplies its members with programs, services and information they need to deliver great local experiences, ensure the success of their employees and help their communities thrive. The Washington Hospitality Association became one of the state’s largest trade associations in 2016 when the Washington Restaurant Association and Washington Lodging Association joined forces in a combined association.
 
About the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber
The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber is a membership-based organization dedicated to making the South Sound the most equitable and inclusive place to do business in Washington State. Through advocacy efforts, leadership building, informational programing, and networking opportunities, the Chamber helps businesses thrive, the economy flourish, and our community prosper. With over 1,500 business members, the Chamber has helped the South Sound move forward since 1884.
 
About Travel Tacoma – Mt. Rainier Tourism and Sports
Travel Tacoma – Mt. Rainier Tourism and Sports is the official destination marketing organization for Tacoma and Pierce County, Washington. Accredited by Destinations International. For more information, visit www.traveltacoma.com.

Pierce County is rallying to help dine-in restaurants stay open and retain jobs! 

The Restaurant Rally promotion will run from November 8-19, excluding Friday and Saturday, and will enable participating restaurants to: 

• Offer a 30% discount for dine in patrons, excluding alcohol 
• Receive a reimbursement at 50% of gross sales, excluding alcohol 

To participate, Pierce County restaurants will need to qualify under criteria such as being a full-service restaurant primarily engaging in food service and operating within Washington’s Safe Start guidelines.

Visit www.piercecountywa.gov/restaurantrally to learn more and apply!

Pierce County Federal CARES Act funding has been allocated through this program with funds set aside to help businesses recover from the economic impacts of the pandemic. Subject to available funds, a business approved to participate will be eligible to receive up to $90,000 and no less than $5,000.

Questions? Contact PCRestaurantRally@piercecountywa.gov

​Last week, the City of Lakewood in partnership with Living Access Support Alliance (LASA) began accepting applications for the Lakewood COVID-19 Rent Assistance program. 
 
LASA, a community-supported nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing temporary and recurrent homelessness, was awarded $407,640 from the Lakewood City Council as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds it received from the state of Washington.  It is anticipated these funds will help assist 175 Lakewood households. 
 
Applicants for this program need to meet the following minimum requirements to be eligible for receiving one-time rental assistance for up to $1500 paid directly to the landlord:

• Household must live in Lakewood as a renter, with their name on the lease or rental agreement;
• Household’s income has been impacted by COVID-19 on March 12th or later; and
• Household’s total combined income is currently $60,000 per year ($1,200/week or $5,000/month) or less.

 
If technical assistance, translation assistance or special accommodations is needed, call LASA’s Homeless Prevention line at (253) 582-5320 Monday thru Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
 
Click here to apply to the Lakewood COVID-19 Rent Assistance Program.

The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber currently has seven Board of Director positions open, and the following people have been nominated to serve:

SLATE OF BOARD CANDIDATES

• Kevin Donovan, SVP, Director of Wealth Management Columbia Bank
• Sherri Jensen, Founder and CEO at Valeo Vocation
• Danny Hankins, Co-Founder, Blue Shift Media
• Debbie Lee, CEO Tool Gauge
• Jerod Pierce, President, Mercurio’s Heating & Air Conditioning
• Grant Twyman, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Specialist, Clover Park School District and Executive Director, Uncommon
• Monique Valenzuela, Executive Director, Tacoma Youth Marine Foundation

Additional names of candidates for directors may be nominated by petitions bearing the genuine signatures of at least (25) qualified members of the Chamber, limited to one signature per member firm.

Such petition shall be filed with the Board Nominating Committee by August 6, 2020 at Noon (12:00PM). Provide petition to Michelle Matheson via email document or a physical copy delivered to the Chamber office. Determination of the Board Nominating Committee as to the legality of the petition(s) shall be final. For a copy of petition or more information please contact Michelle Matheson at (253) 627-2175 or michellem@tacomachamber.org.
​
Best wishes,

The following letter was presented by the Chamber as testimony prior to voting at the June 30 City Council meeting.

On behalf the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, we are encouraging a Yes vote on the three following resolutions on the City of Tacoma City Council Agenda for June 30, 2020.
 
Resolution No. 40620: Wear Face Masks: Passed - See Resolution
To date, progress has been made in our fight again the transmission of Covid-19, and the increasing number of people gathering with the nicer weather we must remain vigilant.  We do not want to lose ground and are actively working with community partners like the TPCHD, PC ED, and others to both reinforce current expectations and show examples of businesses doing the right thing.  People need confidence as we reopen our local economy, and the only way to do this is to reinforce everyone, including businesses, are taking public health seriously.  Face masks are one critical component of this.  We support the measure and look forward to partnering with the City on this important communication effort.
 
Resolution No. 40621: Communications Protocol for Deaths in Police Custody: Passed - See Resolution
The people of Tacoma and of the state have overwhelmingly said they want more transparency when it comes to the use of police power, especially when the power kills.  The overwhelming passage of Initiative 940 in 2018 shows how important transparency is to the people.  The City of Tacoma should prioritize compliance with this law and establish clearer lines of communication when a death occurs while under the care of City government.  Furthermore, by sharing the details of a death more quickly will increase faith in the process and the City’s leadership.  We support this measure and look forward to helping hold our community accountable for the care of all citizens.
 
Resolution No. 40622: Ending Racism: Passed - See Resolution
We as a Chamber are focused on the need to end systemic racism and support the efforts to stop racism and transform Tacoma.  This effort, however, will take work from everyone in our community including our business leaders, and we are focused on moving this issue forward and finding ways to resolve the problem.  
 
As a Chamber, we remain focused on making the South Sound the best place to do business in Washington State. We can only accomplish the goal with the entire community squarely focused on ending systemic racism.

Application Open to Review, Submissions to Begin June 19
 
GIG HARBOR, WASH. (JUNE 12, 2020) -- On May 28th, the Gig HarborCity Council passed a resolution authorizing the creation of a Small Business Stabilization Grant program to support local businesses and the economy. 

The program is funded with $308,000 from a portion of the City’s CARES Act stimulus package distribution. Each awarded grant will be at least $1,500.

Businesses are eligible to apply for a grant if they meet the following criteria:
The business:

• Must have had a Gig Harbor business license before March 1, 2020
• Must be physically located in the City of Gig Harbor
• Must be a for-profit business. The City provides other avenues of support for non-profits, including lodging tax grants and creative endeavor grants.
• Had ten or fewer full-time equivalent employees (FTE) as of March 1, 2020. To determine the number of FTEs employed, for each employee, enter the average number of hours paid per week, divide by 40, and round the total to the nearest tenth. The maximum for each employee is capped at 1.0.
• Is not owned, or partially owned, by employees or public officials associated with the City of Gig Harbor.
• Must have suffered a financial loss due to executive order or proclamation made by Governor Inslee related to COVID-19.

 
Applications for Small Business Stabilization Grants will be accepted starting at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, June 19, 2020. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, 2020. Applications may be submitted at any time - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - until the deadline.

A preview of the application can be found here.

The application will ask businesses to provide the following information:

•  A UBI number for the business (must be associated with an active City of Gig Harbor business license)
• Proof of hardship: monthly Department of Revenue excise/sales tax returns for either April 2019 and April 2020 or May 2019 and May 2020, OR your two most recent quarterly or annual excise tax returns
• A description of the financial loss to your business due to an executive order or proclamation issued by Governor Inslee related to COVID-19

In the event the total number of qualified applicants exceeds 205 in number, the City will randomly select 205 of the qualified applicants to receive the $1500 grant award. The City Council reluctantly implemented the lottery system in order to ensure a consequential minimum grant amount of $1500.

If there are fewer than 205 total qualified applicants, the entire $308,000 will be divided equally between the applicants.

Selected applicants will be required to sign an agreement with the City for the award of grant funds. The agreement template can be found here.

A W-9 form will also be required for payment.

To read more about the grant program and the application process, please visit the Small Business Stabilization Grant webpage.

If you wish to be notified of updates to this program, please sign up for notifications. If you have any questions, please contact Josh Stecker.

Labor & Industries this week enacted emergency rules to fine businesses found to be open in violation of Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home Stay Healthy order in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
​
Businesses found to be in violation of Inslee’s four-phase reopening plan will be directed to close or make immediate safety adjustments. Those who do not comply will be subject to a fine of nearly $10,000 or more, according to this recent L&I announcement.

See here for more details

COVID-19 RESOURCES HERE

Washington—May 15, 2020, the Small Business Administration (SBA), in consultation with the Department of the Treasury, released the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Forgiveness Application and detailed instructions for the application.
The form and instructions inform borrowers how to apply for forgiveness of their PPP loans, consistent with the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).  SBA will also soon issue regulations and guidance to further assist borrowers as they complete their applications, and to provide lenders with guidance on their responsibilities.

The form and instructions include several measures to reduce compliance burdens and simplify the process for borrowers, including:

• Options for borrowers to calculate payroll costs using an “alternative payroll covered period” that aligns with borrowers’ regular payroll cycles
• Flexibility to include eligible payroll and non-payroll expenses paid or incurred during the eight-week period after receiving their PPP loan
• Step-by-step instructions on how to perform the calculations required by the CARES Act to confirm eligibility for loan forgiveness
• Borrower-friendly implementation of statutory exemptions from loan forgiveness reduction based on rehiring by June 30
• Addition of a new exemption from the loan forgiveness reduction for borrowers who have made a good-faith, written offer to rehire workers that was declined

The PPP was created by the CARES Act to provide forgivable loans to eligible small businesses to keep American workers on the payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic.  The documents released today will help small businesses seek forgiveness at the conclusion of the eight week covered period, which begins with the disbursement of their loans.
​
Click Here for Application and Instructions.

With the increase in unemployment benefits, unemployment fraud is on the rise. The Seattle Times reported that over 700 fraudulent claims were reported this month, adding up to over $1.6 million.  

How does this impact employers and what should you do?
Pay attention! When you receive a notification of an unemployment claim…read it! Have you laid off that individual? Are they still working for you? Many employers, especially under the current conditions with layoffs abounding, are inclined to dismiss the notification, as they don’t plan to contest the claim. This is dangerous, as it may be the only way the fraud is identified in a timely manner. While it may take time to sort through the paperwork, track who is working, who is not, how many hours, etc., it is worth the effort!

Contact employees! Communicate with impacted employees to verify the information. Did they apply? If they did not apply, refer to the reporting steps below. If they did apply and they are still working, then you have a completely different disciplinary issue to discuss with the HR Hotline! 

Notify IT! Let your IT department know of the fraudulent claim so that system security can be checked to ensure that the data breach did not come from your end. If it did, it should be addressed immediately and a data security attorney or your cyber security insurer should be contacted, and employees must be notified.

Report it! Employers should promptly notify the Employment Security Department (ESD) that the employee is still working, and the claim is suspected to be fraudulent.

Provide the steps below to affected employees. Cyber-crime investigators are recommending the following steps for anyone who knows, or believes, they are a victim of unemployment fraud:

Step One – Contact HR

• Contact your organizations HR staff to coordinate and report the incident to your employer.  

Step Two – Contact WA State ESD

• Call the WA State Employment Security Dept (ESD) at 800-246-9763 to report the fraud or contact ESD via an online form.

Step Three – File a Police Report

• File an online or non-emergency report with the agency whose jurisdiction you live in.
• If you live in Seattle you can file an online report.
• Start keeping a file folder or journal with the information from this incident, including any case numbers. Some government services and accommodations are available to victims of identity theft that are not available to the general public, such as getting certain public records sealed.

Step Four – Contact Credit Bureaus

• Obtain your free credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion at Annual Credit Report.
• Report to the credit bureaus that the fraudulent claim was made using your identity and provide them with the case number from your police report. You can have a fraud alert put on your identity or freeze your credit. Doing either is free by law.
• A fraud alert is free and will make it harder for someone to open new accounts in your name. To place a fraud alert, contact one of the three credit bureaus. That company must tell the other two.
• Check your credit activity at least once a year. As a victim of identity-theft you have the right to check it monthly if you choose.
• Consider placing a Credit Freeze on your report or any dependents in your household. If you do not have upcoming large purchases, such as a home, you may want to freeze your credit for more protection. It is free and you can do it yourself.

Step Five – FTC & IRS

• File a short report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and give them the case number for the local police report. More info here.
• Consider setting up an IRS account. If you create an account with your social security number, it will prevent criminals from creating an account using your identity.
• Another option is to lock your social security number (the next wave of this cyber-attack may be IRS tax fraud.)
• All of this reporting seems redundant, but you should make sure you are recognized as a victim by the local, state, and federal government. Also, the more people who report it, the more support Law Enforcement agents will get to pursue the perpetrators.

Step Six – Keep Your Notes

• Hang on to any notes, copies of emails, etc. This is the paper trail that you can reference if you face any identity issues or locate inaccuracies on your credit history sometime in the future.

​
If you have reason to believe someone has applied for unemployment benefits using your information or used a scam to obtain your private information, the ESD urges you to make a report at esd.wa.gov/unemployment/unemployment-benefits-fraud.

Please be aware that you will need the following information:

1. Your full name
2. Last 4 numbers of your Social Security number (never put your full SSN in an email)
3. Your address
4. Your date of birth
5. Brief description of how you found out an imposter-fraud claim was filed using your information
6. Please let us know: If an imposter-fraud claim was filed using your information, do you give us permission to deny and cancel it?

Additional steps you can take if you believe you are a victim of fraud:

• Go to the FTC identity theft website: www.identitytheft.gov for resources on reporting
• Request your free credit reports via www.annualcreditreport.com and review them for other fraudulent activities
• Go to atg.wa.gov/recovering-identity-theft-or-fraud for additional tips from the Washington State Attorney General

​As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak continues to impact our region, we want to keep you informed on the work the American Red Cross is doing to fulfill our mission and support our partners during this health crisis.
 
Mental Health First Aid for COVID-19
The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is challenging individuals and families in new ways. Mental health first aid, the practice of recognizing and responding to people experiencing crisis-related stress, can be used to help yourself and others to cope in the face of stressful events.
To help, the American Red Cross is offering a free Mental Health First Aid for COVID-19 online only course during the pandemic. 
The course content is based on guidance from the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). This online course is designed for anyone interested in learning techniques for supporting mental health during the COVID-19 crisis. Topics include:

• Recognizing Stress in Adults, Teens and Children
• Practicing Mental Health First Aid
• Caring for Yourself
• Supporting Your Family
• Supporting Yourself and Coworkers at Work

Individuals may access and enroll directly in the 60 minute course online by clicking here.
 
Humanity in War
Also now available online: a free course to train policy professionals, government officials, academics, and the general public on the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law.
This course prepares participants to recognize key concepts in international humanitarian law, including:

• The Types of Armed Conflict
• The Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols
• Fundamental Principles and Protections for Persons and Objects
• Distinction Between Combatants and Civilians
• Civilian Direct Participation in Hostilities
• Role of the Red Cross and Other Humanitarian Organizations in Armed Conflict

“Even War Has Rules” is offered at 1 p.m. Pacific Time on Wednesdays and 11 a.m. PT on Fridays. For a more detailed schedule or to sign up, email  Andrea Sonntag : andrea.sonntag2@redcross.org.
 
Critical need for Diverse Blood
Right now, African American blood donors are critically needed to help patients battling sickle cell disease following a significant decrease in diverse donors amid this coronavirus outbreak.
Unfortunately, since mid-March we have seen the number of African American blood donors drop by more than half. Understandably, we believe this number has decreased in large part due to blood drive cancellations at businesses, churches and schools, as well as disproportionate COVID-19 infection rates for African Americans compared to other ethnicities.
While we recognize this challenge, the Red Cross needs the help of African American blood donors to ensure a diverse blood supply. Blood transfused to patients with rare blood types, like those with sickle cell disease, must be matched very closely to reduce the risk of complications.
Without a readily available blood supply, sickle cell patients can experience severe pain, tissue and organ damage, acute anemia and even strokes. Furthermore, sickle cell patients are at high risk of serious complications from coronavirus infection and blood transfusion can be a lifesaving treatment for these patients.
This is the time to take care of one another, and blood donation is essential to ensuring the health of those in our community. If you are feeling well, please make an appointment to give by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

MultiCare Occupational Medicine provides three screening & testing services for employers to support restarting employment and our economy. These can be useful for employers to minimize the risk of COVID-19 exposure at work, so long as the employer and employee are aware of their limitations. There are no screening or test tools currently available which guarantee an employee will not spread COVID-19 at work.
If you decide to use one or more of these tools, we hope to be your provider. But regardless where you source the services, we want you to have the facts needed for an informed decision.

Symptom & Temperature Screen:
The medical provider relies on patient-provided symptom answers and a temperature reading to determine if symptoms are of concern or not. This screen is not indicative of past exposure, nor a guarantee the individual is not infected or a contagious carrier of the virus.

Antibody Serology Test:
Positive result:

• Indicates previous or current infection. A positive antibody test cannot distinguish between active or past COVID-19. If there is concern for active infection, molecular testing (PCR) is recommended.
• At this time, it is not known whether the presence of antibodies confers protection from reinfection with COVID-19, how long the antibody response lasts, or the association between antibody response and clinical outcomes of individuals with COVID-19
• A positive test does not prove the individual is not contagious. Social distancing is still recommended

Negative result:

• Indicates either
  The individual has not been infected with COVID-19, or
  There is not a detectable level of antibody present. Explanations for this may include very recent exposure (not enough time has elapsed to generate an immune response) or the immune response has decreased below the detectable level.
• A negative result does not rule out current or past infection with COVID-19, as antibodies may not develop until 14 days after onset of symptoms. That is, “false negatives” are possible. Social distancing is still recommended.

CDC guidelines on Antibody testing:


PCR Nasopharyngeal Test:
Positive result:

• Indicates the virus is present in the sample. The individual may be pre-symptomatic (they will develop an active infection), already have an active infection, or are a carrier of the virus.​

​Negative result:

• Indicates the virus was not found in the specimen, however false negatives have been reported with early stage infected individuals.

​
Antibody Serology Test:
All these services are “snapshots in time.” The individual may be exposed and infected after the service is performed.

For questions, more information or to enroll for services:
​
Tel: 888-580-5513 opt 1
email: occmed@multicare.org
web: www.multicareoccmed.org

Pierce County Emergency Small Business Relief Loan Program has expanded its criteria to help more Pierce County businesses!
The Pierce County Council expanded this loan program on April 21, 2020 to include employers with up to 20 employees for businesses located anywhere in Pierce County, including incorporated cities. New criteria is as follows:

• Be a business physically located anywhere in Pierce county including incorporated cities
• Have 20 or fewer employers (including ownership)
• Be in operation for one or more years
• Demonstrate at least a 25% reduction in revenues attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic

​Find out more here  Emergency Small Business Relief Loan Program

COVID-19 Leads to Greater Employer Focus on Response Planning, Employee Education and Flexible Work Arrangements, Alera Group Study Finds
COVID-19 is leading many employers to implement or re-evaluate their infectious disease response plans, ramp-up their employee communication efforts, and offer flexible work arrangements to address childcare and remote work challenges, a new Alera Group study finds. The Alera Group COVID-19 Employer Pulse Surveyexplores the impact of the pandemic and offers insights into how employers throughout the country and in various industries are navigating employee health, benefits and human resources issues in the changing landscape.
The study identified five key findings:

• Over 50% of employers surveyed with 100 or more employees will implement formal infectious disease policies as a result of COVID-19.
• Most employers, regardless of size, region, or industry, are educating their employees several times a week about prevention techniques, COVID-19 symptoms and employee benefits.
• Hiring freezes and social distancing measures are prevalent and layoffs and furloughs are rising as a result of shutdowns.
• The majority of employers surveyed are allowing employees to use their paid time off and some are assisting with childcare issues. Telemedicine is becoming more of a focus.
• The impact of COVID-19 varies by industry, with manufacturing, non-profit, healthcare, professional and finance/insurance organizations having a slightly more positive outlook.

See Survey Results

Lapse in Appropriations Notice: SBA is unable to accept new applications at this time for the Paycheck Protection Program or the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)-COVID-19 related assistance program (including EIDL Advances) based on available appropriations funding.
EIDL applicants who have already submitted their applications will continue to be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
To learn more about other relief options available for small business, click here.
SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin have issued this joint statement appealing to Congress for additional funds to pass.

​The U.S. Chamber unveiled its Save Small Business Initiative to address the immediate needs of the small business community, mitigate closures and job losses, and mobilize support for long-term recovery in the wake of the economic destruction of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to a call to action for the larger business community and government to help small businesses, the four-part campaign includes supplemental financial assistance, advocacy, resources, webinars and guides, and research.

The U.S. Chamber Foundation is supporting the supplemental financial assistance by launching their Save Small Business Fund. Funded by contributions from corporate and philanthropic partners, the U.S. Chamber Foundation will be providing $5,000 supplemental grants to small employers in economically vulnerable communities.

Applications for the Save Small Business Grant Fund will open this Monday, April 20, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. ET. There are several eligibility requirements which can be foundhere.  We encourage you to share this information with your members so they can apply for a supplemental grant if they are eligible. Chambers of Commerce may also apply if they meet the eligibility requirements

For more information on the Save Small Business Grant Fund including qualifications, the application process and FAQs, please click here.

PSE is making $11 million in funds available to help our customers who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes customers who recently became unemployed, partially unemployed, or cannot work. Please feel free to share this to any people or organizations who might find it helpful. 
 
The $11 million are carry-over funds under PSE’s Low Income Program. With approval from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission, PSE made revisions to its program to make these funds available to a broader group of customers. This program will be available to PSE’s residential customers in Island, King, Kitsap, Kittitas, Lewis, Pierce, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston and Whatcom counties, who meet the household size and income criteria. More information on the criteria, and how to apply can be found via our website www.pse.com/covidhelp or via the attached form.
 
In addition, PSE continues to offer payment plans, allow customers to change a bill’s due date and not charge late fees. PSE will continue to offer its other assistance programs, including the Warm Home Fund, PSE Home Energy Lifeline Program and Weatherization Assistance Program for income-eligible customers. A Customer, co-Customer on the PSE bill, or a customer care agent acting on a Customer’s behalf must first submit a complete and accurate application to the Company.

TACOMA, Wash. – The Tahoma Business Environmental Award is presented annually by the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber to a local business for its outstanding environmental stewardship.
 
This year’s award recipient is Courtesy Auto Service & Tire of Tacoma

Courtesy Auto took great steps in 2019 to reduce their carbon footprint in Pierce County. Some key features include:

• Converting and rewiring every light fixture to LED, roughly 640 - 4 foot bulbs switched out
• Took 4 in ground lifts out of service, drained & sealed them, and installed 2 above ground lifts- migrating any underground contamination
• They recycle used oil and transmission fluids, burning it in a special unit for heat in the shop
• They recycle scrap metal, and wastepaper
• All old oil filters are recycled according to the Department of Ecology’s parameters

 
Visit Courtesy Auto for more information.

More information on their green business practices can be found here
 
The Chamber is proud to recognize forward-thinking businesses and organizations throughout Tacoma and Pierce County. Congratulations, Courtesy Auto! 
 
The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber is a member-based, business and economic-growth organization, dedicated to making the South Sound the best place to do business in Washington State.

(Updated 3/10/2020)
​
According to the Pierce County Health Department, Pierce County currently 14 cases of COVID-19.

POSTPONED SIGNATURE EVENTS
Out of an abundance of caution, for the rest of March the Chamber is postponing events with more than 100 attendees.

1. Happy Hour Business Expo has been rescheduled for May 14.
2. Pierce County Outlook has been rescheduled for June 29.

EVENTS THE WEEK OF MARCH 8

1. CANCELLED: Military Affairs Forum - March 11. 
   Madigan Army Medical Center Commander Col. Bundt has informed us that due to high demand for his time when it comes to COVID-19 response, his services are needed on JBLM.  Madigan has responded to this public health threat by coordinating with 1st Corps, Army Public Health, and local public health authorities for guidance, collaboration and response planning. More from Madigan on COVID-19
2. STILL ON: Chamber Luncheon - Development Updates - March 13.

Check our events page for the latest information on individual events.
CLICK HERE FOR CHAMBER EVENTS

​

​PIERCE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR BUSINESSES
The Pierce County Health Department has provided instructions on how to prepare for COVID-19 in your business.

• Actively encourage sick employees to stay home.
• Ensure your sick leave policies are up to date.
• Prepare for increased number of absences.
• Notify employees of any confirmed COVID-19 cases.

In addition, as of March 10th, TPCHD is recommending additional precautions for the most vulnerable populations.  Those at higher risk include:

• People with weakened immune systems from medical conditions or medical treatment.
• Adults over age 60.
• Pregnant women.

For these groups, TPCHD is recommending they 

• Avoid gatherings of 10 or more people including social gatherings
• Minimize errands and when possible getting friends or family to assist or using online services
• Explore flex and tele -work arrangements with their employers

More details on the TPCHD blog
 
The TPCHD “does not broadly recommend that organizations cancel public gatherings, keep people who are not sick home from work or close schools.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM TACOMA-PIERCE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT​



​WASHINGTON COVID-19 CASES BY COUNTY

This month, the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber recognized local ​employers who are committed to making health and wellness a priority in their workplaces through the WorkWell Awards. Through a selection committee, the nominees were placed by ​implemented changes to the following categories – healthy eating, physical activity, and tobacco cessation.

​WORKWELL GOLD AWARD: Received by an employer who has implemented changes to all three categories – healthy eating, physical activity, and tobacco cessation.
 
Pierce Transit

Physical Activity
In 2019 Pierce Transit held 3 physical activity challenges; 2 that were team based . One of the challenges was administered via an app to entice those who use their smartphones to make it easier to participate. Pierce Transit hosted local 5k’s for staff at community parks with trails. .

Healthy Eating
Pierce Transit updated their vendor agreement to ensure healthy food choices were provided and ensured sufficient refrigerators were available to staff as well as an onsite kitchen for meal prep/cooking.

Tobacco Cessation
Pierce Transit revamped their tobacco cessation program with the intent to increase the promotion of the program in 2020.

WORKWELL SILVER AWARD: Received by an employer who has implemented changes to two of the three categories – healthy eating, physical activity, and tobacco cessation.
 
Greater Tacoma Community Foundation

Physical Activity
They provide their employees the opportunity to take a health survey through their health insurance for a free Fitbit. Employees also participated in the South Sound American Heart Association Walk in September.

Healthy Eating
To combat unhealthy food options in the workplace The Greater Tacoma Community Foundation continues to offer healthy eating options to their staff, adding fresh fruit and a monthly healthy snack delivery from SnackNation.

The Doty Group

Physical Activity
The Doty Group encourages physical activity in a way that fits the lifestyles of their employees. Employees often pair up to visit downtown gyms and studios as workout buddies. They have a wellness program that rewards health screenings and good habits with a $100 gift card.

​Healthy Eating
Tax season is a particularly high-stress time of year for employees at the Doty Group. And it’s easy to develop poor snacking habits during the long working hours. To combat this, the Doty Group makes sure their offices are well stocked with with fresh vegetables and fruits. Although the midnight oil might be burning, the emphasis remains on staying healthy.

WORKWELL BRONZE AWARD: Received by an employer who has implemented changes to one of the three categories – healthy eating, physical activity, and tobacco cessation.
 
Better Business Bureau Northwest & Pacific

Healthy Eating
The Better Business Bureau Northwest is known for its accreditation of businesses, but it can’t do the work of its mission without great employees The BBB revamped the healthy snacks they provide for their employees including adding more fresh produce for snacking and adding dispensers for trail mix, granola and healthy cereal.

YWCA

Wellness Activity
The YWCA has a wellness committee with a budget to promote health and wellbeing for staff as well as all our program clients. They buy everyone on staff a copy of Trauma Stewardship since they work in domestic violence and the work is hard with many stories of violence that can cause vicarious trauma. The YWCA cares that their staff takes care of themselves.

 
ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION ADVOCATE AWARD: Received by an employer who provides encouragement and incentives to their employees for using active transportation.
 
Kaiser Permanente
Effective programs include Kaiser Permanente’s robust commute program implemented in 2019, which including discounted ORCA passes, carpool and van matching, subsidized vanpools, commute concierge service, monthly awards, and a $5/day cash incentive for employees who are taking alternative transportation to/from work.

​Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
In 2019, the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department began a smart commute incentive program to offer personal holidays based on their employees use of active transport to work, such as walking, biking, or by bus or carpool. Along with this, the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department’s ORCA Choice program was created to make it easier to ride the bus, and designated parking spaces for carpools and vanpools. They happily report that these efforts, on top of effective marketing and carpool match making have removed at least 16 cars from their parking lot, along with all related miles, gas, and emissions that go with them.
 
HAPPY HEART AWARD: Received by an employer who demonstrate a broad and long-term commitment to employee health and wellbeing.
 
CHI Franciscan
In 2019, CHI Franciscan continued to build a strong culture with the main goal to help employees establish and maintain good health habits. This included providing education on leading a healthier lifestyle when it comes to nutrition, supporting a tobacco-free campus, and a no-hiring policy for tobacco users.

CHI Franciscan heavily encourages and promotes the need to use alternative commute options for the health of their employees and the environment.

In 2019 CHI Franciscan conducted a campaign in all cafeterias, Rethink Your Drink, started a monthly wellness e-newsletter, onsite Health and Wellness fair, onsite Farmers Markets, and financial wellness online seminars.

No matter what a CHI Franciscan employee’s interest is, they provide information, programs, challenges, and incentives to keep employees motivated and engaged.

City of Tacoma
In 2019 the City of Tacoma continued their commitment of wellness training for their employees as part of their Continuous Development/Training classes. Employees can enjoy these classes during the workday without having to use PTO.

These classes vary from financial wellness/retirement, to all aspects of health and wellbeing.

The city’s Wellness Program encompasses total wellbeing by encouraging employees to earn points via a variety of healthy activities; getting an annual physical; participating in a certified weight management program; being active, eating a healthy diet; getting adequate sleep; attending a city sponsored wellness or webinar class; participating in a behavior change program; and completing a health risk assessment. By meeting a 1,000-point goal through RedBrick Health, they earn a significant discount towards their health insurance premium contribution.

​Lastly, the City of Tacoma offers health fairs at the Tacoma Police Department, Municipal Building, and at Tacoma Public Utilities. Over 1,000 employees attend these events!

MultiCare Health System
​In 2019, MultiCare Healthy@work supported the opening of five mini onsite gyms at various MultiCare clinics to support employees desire to exercise at work while on breaks or before and after shifts.

MultiCare offers healthy food options in the cafeterias, as well as, grab and go options.

The Healthy@work program offers points for employees who go through the tobacco-cessation program.

The MultiCare Smart Commuter program offers employees ORCA cards, bike racks and financial assistance for employees who choose to commute by taking the bus, vanpool or Sounder Commuter Rail.

In 2019, the Healthy@work program introduced the Well Workplace Scholarship Program. This program provided a limited number of scholarships to help MultiCare locations improve their environments. The funds distributed support employee health and well-being in the workplace. Winners receive equipment for relaxation rooms; exercise equipment for onsite gyms and even bike helmets for those employees working downtown.