West Seattle Chamber of Commerce: ‘After Hours’ tonight; award nomination deadline ahead

Inbetween regular meetings, West Seattle Chamber of Commerce members gather for “After-Hours” events at local businesses – and tonight, board member Kirk Mead (left, with president Dave Montoure) played host at the new Umpqua Bank branch of which he is general manager, next to Admiral Safeway. Here’s the smiling staff:

On the immediate horizon for the Chamber – next Tuesday is the deadline to get nominations in for this year’s Westside Awards. The nomination form and more info can be found on this page of the Chamber’s website.

kate January 26, 2012 (11:06 pm)

I must say, the Umpqua Bank in West Seattle is kinda dreamy. Never in a million billion years did I think I would ever say that about a bank. The staff is very kind and they have a great selection of complimentary teas. Plus, there’s a warmth to their space that Chase and Bank of America are DESPERATELY lacking. I will be closing my Chase account promptly. Also, and this is another very delightfully surprising aspect of Umpqua, they’re very pro local business. They’re currently featuring my artwork and my husband’s music (Kate Endle Collage and Caspar Babypants). They have a table where local businesses can “set up shop” to promote their services; I don’t even have an account with them (yet) and they’ve offered us the advertising space for three months, free of charge (they’re displaying and selling our merchandise without taking a commission). Isn’t that great? Go in for a visit and I bet you’re not going to want to leave (free internet access, too).

Christopher Boffoli January 27, 2012 (5:17 am)

I banked with B of A for around 15 years and every time I went in to a local branch they treated me like I was a total stranger. But after only a few months the team at Umpqua always greets me by name and sincerely treats me like a valued customer. I’m so delighted I opened an account there.

Suzanne January 27, 2012 (7:09 am)

Now I know where the staff of Alaska USA Credit Union went. It looks like they all went to Umpqua Bank. I miss them!

Kirk Mead January 27, 2012 (11:17 am)

@Kate: Well thanks Kate, we like you (and Chris!) too :)

@Christopher: We’re delighted that you’re delighted!

@Suzanne: 2620 California Ave Southwest Ste. 500, RIGHT next to Safeway…stop by anytime. We’d LOVE to see you (FYI! It’s Cookie Friday today). And while we’re on the topic of stopping by…

…Our Ballard store’s Grand Opening is today – 2032 NW Market Street! If you’re in the neighborhood or even if you’re not, stop by and say hi (they’ve got cookies too!)

Kelsey January 27, 2012 (12:42 pm)

I miss you to Suzanne! Please bring your daughter and stop by! I miss all my Alaska USA customers! But I LOVE Umpqua, so I won’t be going back!

JanS January 27, 2012 (1:09 pm)

Christopher…I met Kirk Mead and a couple of the women who work there on Hallowe’en briefly as they handed out candy. Two weeks later I went in to open an account and Kirk called me by name. That’s amazing. I really do like it there. Personable, warm, easygoing…and one gets chocolate every time one makes a transaction..couldn’t ask for more :)

Good cookies, too :D