Eugene Alletto of BEDGEAR Announced as EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015 Award Winner in New York

Eugene Alletto an Entrepreneur of the Year in NYC

Eugene Alletto, bedgear founder and CEO, has been announced as a winner of the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2015 Award in the New York region. The award recognizes outstanding entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellence and extraordinary success in such areas as innovation, financial performance, and personal commitment to their businesses and communities. Eugene Alletto was selected by an independent panel of judges, and the award was presented at a special gala event at the Marriott Marquis on June 16, 2015.

Now in its 29th year, the program has honored the inspirational leadership of such entrepreneurs as Howard Schultz of Starbucks Coffee Company, Pierre Omidyar of eBay, Inc., and Mindy Grossman of HSN. Recent US national winners include Reid Hoffman and Jeff Weiner of LinkedIn; Hamdi Ulukaya, founder of Chobani; and 2014 winner Dr. David Hung, President and CEO and Chairman of Medivation.

As a New York award winner, Eugene Alletto is now eligible for consideration for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015 national program. Award winners in several national categories, as well as the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner, will be announced at the annual awards gala in Palm Springs, California, on November 14, 2015. The awards are the culminating event of the EY Strategic Growth Forum.

About bedgear

Founded in 2009, bedgear pioneered the category of performance bedding essentials ­ uniquely designed products built on a patent-pending sales process that fits your sleep position and body frame, to provide you with the maximum recovery at night. With a ³lifehacker² philosophy centered on helping you achieve more, our collection of performance pillows, pillow protectors, mattress protectors and sheets harness cutting-edge fabric technologies like those currently used throughout our active daily lives ­ when we run, ride bikes, do yoga and just enjoy the outdoors. Manufactured using only flexible materials that provide optimal air flow and allow for free range of motion, bedgear performance bedding products also wick away heat & moisture, so you can temperature regulate at night for better rest. You can¹t cheat sleep ­ but you can get more out of the time you spend in bed with products that fit your individual needs.

About EY Entrepreneur Of The Year

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year is the world¹s most prestigious business award for entrepreneurs. The unique award makes a difference through the way it encourages entrepreneurial activity among those with potential and recognizes the contribution of people who inspire others with their vision, leadership and achievement. As the first and only truly global award of its kind, Entrepreneur Of The Year celebrates those who are building and leading successful, growing and dynamic businesses, recognizing them through regional, national and global awards programs in more than 145 cities in more than 60 countries.

About EY

EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities.

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WORLD-RENOWNED UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON BREAST CANCER RESEARCHER FEATURED AT RAMBAM HEALTH CENTER SUMMIT

[caption id="attachment_44" align="alignright" width="300"] Photo credit to: Pioter Fliter, Amir Mark, Rambam HCC.[/caption]

HAIFA, ISRAEL – World-renowned geneticist from the University of Washington, Prof. Mary-Claire King, was one of the featured presenters at this year’s annual Rambam Medical Center Summit in Israel.  King gave a presentation to leading scientists from Israel and around the world on cancer prevention and the connection between gene discovery and public health, warning of inter-family marriage and procreation and how it can often lead to both physical and mental ailments.

King spoke to the summit’s participants on a wide-range of topics within genetic mutation sickness. With inter-marriage so prevalent in Israel and the Middle East, King ran through a plethora of research she has conducted and phylogenetic trees justifying this research, showing those in attendance just how grave the impact of inter-family procreation can be.

“This region, because of its unique history, unique demographic, remarkable diversity of population, combined with superb medical care and excellent scientific infrastructure, makes this a uniquely fine place in the world to carry out the kind of work I do,” said Prof. King. “I’ve been carrying out this work with friends here for 20 years now and I hope to continue to do it for another 20.”

Rambam’s annual healthcare summit played host to leading medical researchers, healthcare policy makers and philanthropists at its campus in Haifa. A port city in northern Israel. This year’s theme, “From Vision to Reality” is showcasing the latest medical innovations, giving host to some of the leading personnel in medicine.

King is acclaimed for her discovery that a single gene, BRCA1, was responsible for many breast and ovarian cancers, and a large percentage of breast cancer may be in fact hereditary. The discovery of what became known as the “breast cancer gene” is said to have revolutionized the study of numerous other common diseases and provided a great amount of progress in early detection and prevention of breast cancer. As a result of King’s discovery, sequencing screening is now done on woman in their 30’s to detect the gene and eventually lead to cancer prevention.

“My view is that every young woman at the age of 30 or so should be screened for mutations of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes,” Prof. King added, “In the European Jewish population roughly 1 of 40 women will have such a mutation…For these women that have such a mutation, they need to think about what actions to take, work with physicians to sort out a plan, and the best way to be able to take control of the situation, to be in power and to be in charge of one’s self is to be screened.”

“We are thrilled to have Professor King here at Rambam for our summit,” said Prof. Rafi Beyar, director general of Rambam Hospital. “She has pioneered breast cancer research and subsequently saved the lives of many as a result of her lifelong research. She is a hero and we are honored to host her.”

Rambam Health Care Campus is a 1,000-bed academic hospital serving the over 2 million residents of Northern Israel. Providing comprehensive medical services in all medical specialties, Rambam is the tertiary referral center for 12 district hospitals. Rambam Health Care Campus’s garage can be converted into a 2,000-bed full-service underground hospital, the largest in the world. In addition to the citizens of Northern Israel, Rambam serves the Israel Defense Forces Northern Command, UN Peacekeeping Forces, and the US 6th Fleet. Many of Rambam’s physicians participate in cutting-edge research projects to bring new therapies and treatments not only to their patients, but the greater community of the world. Rambam Heath Care Campus proudly believes that everyone deserves the highest quality of care and has always opened its doors to all those in need, regardless of their religious, race, and ethnicity. Visit http://www.rambam.org.il/EnglishSite.

Chris Barrow President and CEO of EagleView Technology Named an Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015 for the Pacific Northwest

Chris Barrow Wins Entrepreneur of the Year for EagleView Technology

Bothell-based EagleView Technology Corporation, which provides the technology for aerial imagery, data analytics and GIS solutions, recently announced that EY has named EagleView President and CEO Chris Barrow as an EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015 in the Pacific Northwest Region.  The award recognizes entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellence and extraordinary success in such areas as innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities.  Chris Barrow and other award winners were selected by a panel of independent judges.  The award was presented at a special gala event at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel on June 5th.

“It is such an honor to be chosen for this prestigious award recognizing the success of EagleView in the Big Data category,” said Chris Barrow. “I am truly passionate about this company and strive to be a disruptive innovator in the marketplace, particularly when it comes to data mining and delivering solutions derived from Big Data.” Chris Barrow has shaped EagleView from an aerial measurement company and guided it through a merger with Pictometry International Corp. in 2013 to become the industry leader in aerial imagery, data analytics and GIS solutions serving the commercial, government and public utility sectors.  The company’s massive image library covers 90 percent of the population in the U.S., with hundreds of millions of images dating back over the last decade.

Now in its 29th year, the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year program has honored the inspirational leadership of such entrepreneurs as Howard Schultz of Starbucks Coffee Company, Pierre Omidyar of eBay, Inc., and Mindy Grossman of HSN. Recent US national winners include Reid Hoffman and Jeff Weiner of LinkedIn; Hamdi Ulukaya, founder of Chobani; and 2014 winner Dr. David Hung, President and CEO and Chairman of Medivation.

As a Pacific Northwest award winner, Barrow is now eligible for consideration for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015 national program. Award winners in several national categories, as well as the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner, will be announced at the annual awards gala in Palm Springs, California, on November 14, 2015. The awards are the culminating event of the EY Strategic Growth Forum, one of the nation’s most prestigious gatherings of high-growth, market-leading companies.

About EagleView

EagleView Technology Corporation is based in Bothell Washington.  They are a provider of aerial imagery, data analytics and GIS solutions serving the commercial, government and public utility sectors.  The company’s patented image capture processes and 3D modeling algorithms coupled with property-centric analytic tools empower end-user workflows with scalable, efficient and highly accurate answer sets in support of property claims, risk management, construction, emergency response, assessment, corridor mapping and more.

Michelle Flandreau is New Vice President Of Marketing at Guidant Financial

Bellevue's Guidant Financial Names Michelle Flandreau VP Marketing

Bellevue-based small business financing specialist Guidant Financial has hired Michelle Flandreau as vice president of marketing. Based in Guidant's Bellevue headquarters,  Michelle Flandreau's hiring is in Guidant's 12th year in business.  Guidant Financial's state goal is to put $350 million to work for small business in 2015.  Reaching this goal will help empower entrepreneurs to help realize their dreams of business ownership. Michelle Flandreau will drive marketing and communications for Guidant and lead the strategic direction of the company.  She will also oversee earned and social media, email marketing and advertising and hopefully be working to renew a former partnership with Bellevue Business Journal.

For more than 15 years, Michelle Flandreau has developed and managed integrated, results-driven marketing campaigns. She joins the Guidant Financial team with a passion for customer service, entrepreneurship, and building a vibrant company culture.

Prior to Guidant, Michelle worked for top retail and consumer technology companies including Tommy Bahama, Expedia, and Nordstrom. Most recently, Michelle helped double sales and grow the marketing team at LiquidPlanner, a Seattle software startup.

"Michelle is an experienced strategist who excels in integrated marketing programs and brand management," said David Nilssen, CEO and co-founder of Guidant Financial. "She's joining us at an exciting time of company growth and will have a profound impact leading the strategic marketing direction of our brand."

Flandreau is a graduate of Western Washington University.

About Guidant Financial
Guidant Financial works with entrepreneurs to identify, evaluate and deploy intelligent business financing strategies. Their services include, but are not limited to, rollovers as business startups (ROBS), SBA loans, unsecured credit and portfolio loans. Since 2003, Guidant has helped deploy more than $3 billion of capital into 10,000 small businesses and franchises.  Guidant Financial was a long time advertiser with Bellevue Business Journal when we still printed a newspaper - and before print was officially declared dead.

Covenant Retirement Communities Promotes Terri Cunliffe to CEO

Terri Cunliffe Promoted to CEO After 25 Years at Convenant Retirement Communities

The board of directors of Chicago-based Covenant Retirement Communities (CRC), owner and operator of 14 senior living communities nationwide, has named Terri Cunliffe as its chief executive officer, effective June 1, 2015. Cunliffe, who has served as CRC’s COO since 2010 and has been part of the organization for more than 25 years, succeeds current CEO Rick Fisk.

Beginning her career as a nursing home part-time receptionist, Terri Cunliffe has held a series of progressive leadership roles within CRC, including nursing home administrator and executive director at Covenant Village of Florida. As CRC’s senior vice president of health and wellness and executive vice president of operations, Cunliffe effected change by developing and implementing the company’s LifeConnect approach to whole-person wellness. The program enables CRC to connect residents with resources and opportunities to help them fulfill their needs, interests and goals through educational and cultural programming, on- and off-campus activities and excursions.

While serving as COO Cunliffe developed the organization’s new customer service and hospitality platform – ‘We Believe.’ The platform, which is currently being implemented across CRC’s 14 senior living communities, focuses on enhancing the communities’ customer service and resident relations by focusing on individuality, hospitality, congeniality and spirituality.

“It has been a privilege to be a part of an organization that is committed to the Evangelical Covenant Church’s mission, and provides its employees the opportunity to impact the lives of others on a daily basis while practicing their faith at work,” says Cunliffe. “Our residents and staff inspire me daily, and I look forward to continuing to work with our executive leadership team and board of directors to further Covenant Retirement Communities’ strategic vision of assisting and meeting the needs of future generations of residents and staff.”

Covenant Retirement Communities Knows Cunliffe is Right Hire

“Throughout her tenure with Covenant Retirement Communities, Terri has earned the respect of the staff and board members as well as colleagues in the senior living industry,” says Neil Warnygora, executive director at Covenant Village of Northbrook. “With her long history with the organization and strengths – enthusiasm, experience, business savvy, and wellness perspective – Terri Cunliffe is the right person for this position and will effect positive change that will continue to reflect the mission of the Evangelical Covenant Church and Covenant Retirement Communities.”

A licensed nursing home administrator in the state of Florida, Cunliffe has been an active leader in LeadingAge Florida, formerly known as Florida Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, since 1995. She was named FAHSA Executive of the Year in 1999, received its chairman’s award in 2005 and was the organizations’ chair from 2009-2011.

Cunliffe earned a Bachelor of Science degree in long-term care administration from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minn. and a master’s degree in health services administration from Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

About Covenant Retirement Communities

Covenant Retirement Communities is one of the nation’s largest not-for-profit senior services providers. It serves 5,000 residents at 14 retirement communities nationwide and is a ministry of the Evangelical Covenant Church. For more information, visit www.covenantretirement.org.

Steve Bowles Hired by Oki Golf as New GM of The Plateau Club

Oki Golf Re-Hires Steve Bowles

Steve Bowles, local golf professional and former Director of Golf Operations at TPC Snoqualmie Ridge, is transitioning back to Oki Golf as the new General Manager of the Plateau Club in Sammamish, Wash. Bowles previously managed golf operations for Oki Golf at both Washington National and The Golf Club at Newcastle.

More recently, Bowles worked with Virginia Mason, managing corporate partnerships and golf operations for the annual Boeing Classic. Bowles brings golf expertise, managerial skills, and a passion for the hospitality and golf industries with him to the Plateau Club.

About Oki Golf

Oki Golf is a collection of 11 premier Puget Sound golf courses providing championship golf course layouts and outstanding course conditions to players of all skill levels. With several Northwest golf courses located near Seattle, Everett and Olympia, Oki Golf’s challenging course designs and unrivaled guest service provide an exceptional golf experience at unparalleled value to casual golfers, tournaments and group golf outings. Oki Golf’s portfolio of courses includes The Golf Club at Newcastle, Washington National Golf Club, The Golf Club at Redmond Ridge, Trophy Lake Golf & Casting, Harbour Pointe Golf Club, The Golf Club at Echo Falls, The Golf Club at Hawk’s Prairie, The Plateau Club and Indian Summer Golf & Country Club. For more information about Oki Golf, visit www.OkiGolf.com.

You can 'Like' Oki Golf on Facebook too!

Seahawk QB Russell Wilson is a Real Role Model - Not MIA But Supporting New Teammate Jimmy Graham in Miami

[caption id="attachment_10267" align="alignright" width="300"] SEATTLE, WA - APRIL 23: (L-R) Seattle Seahwaks players Jimmy Graham, Doug Baldwin and Russell Wilson speak on stage during We Day at KeyArena on April 23, 2015 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Mat Hayward/Getty Images)[/caption]

Russell Wilson is a role model.  A GREAT role model.

Today the NFC Champion and America's Favorite Team, Seattle Seahawks begin OTAs (organized team activities) and every day, every meeting, every chance to compete is 'super' important to Wilson and this team.  Despite this being an important start to an important run towards the 2015 NFL season, Russell Wilson chose to fly to Miami with new teammate (and future favorite target) Jimmy Graham to support him at services for Tamara Myerson who was Graham's longtime mentor and manager, as well as an important mother figure in his life.

Condolences to Graham and the Myerson family.

Kudos to Russell Wilson for knowing what is most important in life - people.

Unfortunately, the kids at Children's Hospital in Seattle may have to wait until next Tuesday for Wilson to return to his regular visitation schedule.

WSU Creamery Announces New Manager

John Haugen will manage the Washington State University Creamery effective Aug. 1. He has been assistant manager since 1999.

He will replace Russ Salvadalena, manager since July 2000, who plans to retire in January after assisting with personnel transition and special projects.

Information about the assistant manager vacancy can be found at https://www.wsujobs.com/postings/18564. Those interested may apply at http://www.wsujobs.com; search for position number 121370.

Haugen will oversee Ferdinand’s Ice Cream Shoppe retail store, cheese and ice cream production and the direct marketing department - where two-thirds of the cheese revenue is generated through phone, Internet and mail orders.

During Salvadalena’s tenure, revenues more than doubled, the warehouse and telephone call center were expanded in 2006 and the retail store was expanded in 2013. Cheese production capacity increased and dozens of students received training and experience to make them valued prospective employees in the food industry.

The creamery is preparing to break ground this summer on a $4 million facility for whey processing training and research and to improve milk delivery from the university-owned dairy farm.

ABC of Western Washington hires new Membership Development Manager

[caption id="attachment_10192" align="alignright" width="225"] Katie Anfinsen ABC Membership Development Manager[/caption]

Associated Builders and Contractors of Western Washington has hired Katie Anfinsen as Membership Development Manager. She has taken over responsibility for membership growth from Wendy Novak who became president of the chapter in April.

Anfinsen has a strong background in relationship sales and customer service. She returned to the Seattle area after spending eight years in Whitefish, Mont. where she held positions with the Whitefish Mountain Resort and First Interstate Bank. She earned her bachelor of science degree in Recreation and Tourism Management from Central Washington University and where she also worked as an account executive for KXLE radio.

About ABC      

ABC of Western Washington represents more than 300 companies and their nearly 15,000 employees from both open shop and union contractors, professional service firms and suppliers. Its membership includes general and subcontractors as well as associated firms that are dedicated to promoting the free enterprise system through improved business conditions, increased training and safety and promoting positive employee/employer relations.

Mikayla Morgan Promoted to Marketing Integration Manager at LoanStar Home Lending

Mikayla Morgan was recently promoted to Marketing Integration Manager and Coordinator for the Marketing Department at LoanStar Home Lending.

“Mikayla has been with our core team since before LoanStar was founded and has a very intimate knowledge of how our marketing systems work best for our originators.  And now as a licensed originator herself, she brings even more experience to the team and will be a tremendous asset to new loan officers and branches that join LoanStar in the future,” said Kenn Bartley, SVP Marketing and Business Development. Mikayla has been with the company since November 12, 2013 and has held positions as Marketing Coordinator and Regional Marketing Manager.  She will continue to serve as a marketing concierge for LoanStar’s Bellevue, Vancouver, and the Walla Walla branches, supporting those loan officers with all of their marketing needs from on-boarding and beyond.

We are excited about this new position at LoanStar, the Marketing Integration Manager, will be responsible for coordinating and facilitating all marketing onboarding activities for new employees.  Kenn Bartley added, “LoanStar recognized the need for a robust onboarding process since we founded the company, and elevating Mikayla Morgan to the new position of Marketing Integration Manager is another sign of our commitment to make the transition to LoanStar seamless and smooth.”

Billie Jo Cusack Earns Construction Elite Award from Umpqua Bank

Umpqua Bank has recognized Billie Jo Cusack as a 2014 Construction Elite loan officer.  The award goes to the top construction and renovation loan specialists in the Home Lending division.

“To attain this Elite status, our loan officers must place a concentrated focus on our products that allow borrowers to build or renovate their dream home,” says Susan Brown, Umpqua Bank, SVP Construction and Renovation Manager.  “The resurgence of renovation and construction will help alleviate the housing supply shortage that exists in many of our communities.”

Cusack has lived in Washington her whole life and has spent the last 17 years in Redmond. She has been in the mortgage business for 15 years and has been ranked as a top producing loan officer in her region for the last 14. She loves spending time with her family and friends and loves to be outside in the water. Cusack says that she just likes to be here and help clients build their dreams. Cusack reports to Branch Manager, Scott Clirehugh and works out of Umpqua’s Bellevue office at 10500 NE 8^th St. Ste. 1776.

Hilton Worldwide Appoints Frank Welton as Area General Manager of Seattle/Northwest

Frank Welton general manager of Hilton Seattle Airport & Conference Center and DoubleTree by Hilton Seattle Airport, a position he has held since 2005 has been promoted to the position of area general manager of Seattle/Northwest region.  Welton’s expanded responsibilities encompass supervision of the teams and operations at five additional hotels: Hilton Portland, Embassy Suites Portland Downtown, Hilton Vancouver, DoubleTree Spokane City Center and Embassy Suites Seattle – Tacoma Airport.  He will continue to oversee the management and operations of the Hilton and DoubleTree hotels at Seattle Airport with a combined flexible function space of over 80,000 square feet and 1,250 guest rooms.   Welton will report directly to Area Vice President of Operations, Jerry Gibson.

“Frank has a proven track record of creating a long-term vision, said Gibson.  “He also has a wealth of industry knowledge, participating in the company mergers/acquisitions of Red Lion Hotels, Doubletree Hotels, Promus Hotels, and Hilton Hotels Corporation making him an excellent choice for this key regional position and expanding market.”

A hospitality industry veteran, Welton has been recognized with industry and Hilton awards for superior performance including the Washington Lodging Association “General Manager of the Year.”

Active in community leadership, he currently serves on several boards including:  Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority, SeaTac Tax Advisory Committee, vice chairman of the Washington Lodging Association and past director of the American Hotel & Lodging Association.

Welton attended Central Washington University and resides in the Seattle area. When time permits, he enjoys boating, golfing and spending time with his family which includes three grandchildren.

Bellevue College VP Dr. Gayle Colston Barge named one of the nation’s top 25 Women in Higher Ed

Dr. Gayle Colston Barge, Bellevue College Vice President for Institutional Advancement, has been named one of the nation’s Top 25 Women in Higher Education by Diverse Issues in Higher Education in their annual special issue for Women’s History Month.

Barge is recognized as an expert on African-American women and work-life balance.  This fall she will present at the Oxford Women’s Leadership Symposium in Oxford, England. She has more than 30 years’ experience in marketing, communications and public affairs positions.  At Bellevue College she provides leadership and supervision for all fundraising, marketing and communications outreach, including the college’s 50^th anniversary celebration in 2016.

The Top 25 Women in Higher Education issue includes several college and university presidents and executives of educational organizations and associations. The women featured have made a difference in the world by tackling some of higher education’s toughest challenges and exhibiting extraordinary leadership skills. The issue’s cover features trailblazing leader Dr. Belle Wheelan, president of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, who was selected as the 2015 Dr. John Hope Franklin Award winner.  To learn more about this year’s Top 25 Women in Higher Education, please visit: http://diverseeducation.com/W-H-M/Top-25-Women-2015.pdf

About Bellevue College: With an annual average enrollment of over 33,000, Bellevue College is one of the largest educational institutions in Washington State. BC offers associate degree programs covering the first two years of a college education as well as four-year bachelor’s degrees, certificates and continuing education programs in more than 90 professional and technical fields, such as information technology, telecommunications, business, education, health and public safety. Visit and learn more at www.bellevuecollege.edu

11 Questions with Scott Cameron Co-Founder of Land Advisors Organization

1. What was your first ‘job’?

My very first job was at a grocery store in my home town. I stocked shelves and bagged groceries when I was in high school.

2. What did you do before you got started in real estate?

After I graduated from college, I worked for a division of US Steel Corporation outside of Philadelphia as a management trainee. This position involved learning a variety of skills and offered an introduction into sales. I learned a lot, including respect for those men and women working for years on graveyard shifts to support their families.

3. How did you get started in real estate?

While I was working in the Mid Atlantic I played on flag football team. One of my teammates was in real estate development and he invited me to interview with East West Partners to sell new homes and lots in a master planned community in Richmond, Virginia. East West Partners then brought me to the Puget Sound where I dove into the real estate market as the marketing and sales director for a master planned community called Lakemont, which is a 468 lot community on Cougar Mountain.

4. Why did you transition into selling land?

I sold lots to buyers and builders from the beginning of my real estate career, and transitioned to selling raw and entitled land when the opportunity arose in 1999.

5. It seems like most of the desirable land has already been developed – where are the ‘spots’ in our market?

The areas that we expect to see substantial growth are core markets with easy proximity to the major arterials, such as the communities along 405 and I-5, especially in Pierce, North King and Snohomish counties. The most successful communities have a good school district with access to amenities such as shopping and entertainment. These are and will continue to be hot spots from a rental, multifamily and single family development perspective.

We also anticipate more development in Seattle’s urban core with the gentrification of blighted neighborhoods resulting in greater urban density.

6. What kind of process do you use to find land to sell?

Our process is simple: a) know the market, b) maintain great relationships with builders, developers, private landowners and other brokers while sustaining an active presence with trusted advisors who represent families and trusts. We use electronic newsletters, events and social media to stay in touch with our constituents. Integrity and results generate business.

7. How have the tools changed since you’ve been in the business?

Market research is a key differentiator in our business. Before the days of digital communication, we did a lot “windshield” and word-of-mouth market research that took a great deal time to do and substantial dependence on information owners. Now we have the benefit of easy access to any information we need with propriety subscriptions to specialized, in-depth market research.

8. Have you had any mentors in your business career? Role models?

Yes, I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to have worked with many bright, entrepreneurial, hard-working and funny people from whom I have learned and borrowed traits from. One of the biggest was not taking myself altogether too seriously.

9. What was the best piece of business advice that you’ve ever received?

Work smart. Work hard. Follow your heart and your passion.

10. Have you read any good business or real estate books lately? Any you would like to recommend? Any other sources of information to share: blogs, podcasts, email lists, YouTube channels?

On the business side I tend to read books and articles, listen to podcasts and subscribe to emails that focus on building relationships and understanding people. Two of my favorites are StrengthFinder and the podcasts presented by Vistage, a CEO and business owner group that I am a member of.

11. You are known for giving back to the community and supporting local non-profits, which ones are you most active with?

I’ve been actively involved in the Boys & Girls Club of Bellevue for years. I also support Augie’s Quest, which funds ALS research, and I participate in mission trips to build homes in Mexico with Esperanza International. Most recently I’ve dedicated time to a new chapter of HomeAid which is the non-profit arm of the National Association of Home Builders.

Bonus question: What is it like at Notre Dame on St Patrick’s Day?

Every day at Notre Dame was St. Patrick’s Day!

Scott Cameron is the Co-Founder of Land Advisors Organization.  Land Advisors Organization can also be found on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Tim Lennon to join The Vera Project as Executive Director

The Vera Project announced today that Tim Lennon will join the all-ages music and art organization as its new executive director.

“Vera’s staff, members and board are thrilled that Tim will be leading this beloved organization,” said Chris Nelson, chair of Vera’s board of directors. “We were all impressed by Tim’s energy, his ideas for Vera’s future, and his commitment to social justice.”

Lennon has worked in Seattle’s arts community for more than a decade. He comes to Vera from the Seattle Office of Arts & Culture, where he oversees summer concerts, the Mayor’s Arts Awards, public space arts activations and other events. He was program manager for The Next 50 series celebrating the 50^th anniversary of the 1962 World’s Fair at Seattle Center, which is also home to Vera. Over the years, he has also worked with One Reel, Elliott Bay Book Company and the University of Washington.

In January, he was a featured panelist at Vera’s “Ferguson Seattle: Mobilizing Our Community” open discussion on racial issues in Seattle.

“The Vera community has fundamentally changed the local arts, music and political landscapes,” Lennon said. “It also fundamentally changes the lives of all who've found a home here. I am honored and beyond excited to serve the members, volunteers, staff and board in building on that legacy and helping them take Vera to the next level.”

One of Lennon’s first tasks will be working leading Vera through a strategic planning process with Andy Fife and Michele Scoleri, longtime Seattle arts leaders who have served as co-interim directors of Vera during the past year.

“This is a fantastic time for Vera,” Nelson said. “Along with SIFF and our soon-to-be neighbor, KEXP, Vera is helping to create an electric environment on the Uptown corner of Seattle Center. We’re eager for Vera members and staff, led by Tim, to make it one of the city’s most exciting creative hubs."

There will be a public reception at The Vera Project to welcome Tim Lennon on Thursday, April 9th at 8pm.

About The Vera Project

VERA—an acronym for the Latin “Veri Et Recti Amici,” or "true and sincere friends"—is an all-ages volunteer-fueled music and arts venue. By engaging participants at all levels of music production and community organizing, Vera fulfills its mission to foster a participatory creative culture through popular music concerts, arts programs, experiential learning and volunteer opportunities for all ages, especially young people. Vera’s programs are always all ages, with a focus on young people ages 14 to 24.

Cutter & Buck Names Bryan Dickson 2014 Salesperson of the Year

When Cutter & Buck, which marks its 25^th anniversary this year, sought out its top salesperson for 2014, the Seattle-based company didn’t have to look too long or, as it turned out, too far.  Born and raised in nearby Bellevue, Bryan Dickson is Cutter & Buck’s 2014 Salesperson of the Year.

“Since joining our team in 2010, Bryan has worked tirelessly to transform the Pacific Northwest into one of our strongest territories in the company and has consistently been one of our top performers year after year,” said Jake Rawson, global director of sales-golf, Cutter & Buck.  “In 2014, Bryan found creative ways to keep our customers engaged and buying our products and, as a result, he realized a significant year over year increase in his business. It’s an honor to recognize Bryan as we’re celebrating a significant milestone in the history of our company, founded in 1990 here in the Pacific Northwest.”

Dickson’s territory is vast, encompassing the states of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Alaska.  He said he is particularly excited that this year’s U.S. Open Championship will be held in mid-June in his territory – at Chambers Bay, overlooking the Puget Sound near Tacoma and 40 miles south of Seattle.

“Chambers Bay has been a terrific partner and has generated a lot of business for us,” said Dickson, who formally received his salesperson of the year award during a recent ceremony in Orlando, Fla.

For additional information on Cutter & Buck products, contact Cutter & Buck at (800) 713-7810 or visit its website at www.cutterbuck.com.

About Cutter & Buck
Established in 1990, Cutter & Buck has become a hallmark for delivering fresh approaches to classic sportswear. Based in Seattle, the company prides itself on the design, manufacturing and distribution of premium, versatile apparel that meets the demands of an active lifestyle. With an expanding line of products for the golf, corporate, collegiate and professional sports, and specialty retail markets, the company is proud to provide its customers with safe and compliant products as a certified QCA supplier since 2011. Cutter & Buck has partnerships or licenses with the NFL, NCAA, MLB, PGA of America, USGA, PGA TOUR and USTA. The company is the exclusive North American distributor of Clique, a premier sportswear basics brand in the European marketplace. Cutter & Buck is available worldwide in golf pro shops, fan shops, resorts, specialty retailers, through premium promotional product distributors, and at cutterbuck.com.

JLL Adds Matt O’Brien to Boost Industrial Expertise in Seattle

In a move designed to further enhance the firm’s successful service offerings and support continued growth in the Puget Sound region, JLL recently announced the appointment of Executive Vice President Matt O’Brien to its regional industrial team.

O’Brien will operate out of the firm's office in Seattle. O’Brien partners with the firm’s existing industrial team of Chris Spofford and Casey Trees. Additionally, O’Brien will work with JLL's Seattle and West Coast Capital Markets teams in an effort to expand the company's Pacific Northwest Industrial Investment sales practice.

“Matt is highly respected in the industry and is one of the top industrial brokers in the region,” said Joe Smurdon, Market Leader for the Seattle-Bellevue region, JLL. “His strong work ethic and commitment to client service makes him a perfect fit for JLL. We are thrilled to have him on our team.”

An 11-year veteran of commercial real estate, O’Brien has become an accomplished institutional agency leasing and investment sales broker in the Southend industrial market. O’Brien has extensive experience in tenant representation, land sales and development underwriting, and owner-user sales. In 2014, Matt leased over one million square feet of space and participated in investment sales totaling well over $100 million.

O’Brien has been named a CoStar Power Broker in six of the previous seven years.

He joins JLL from CBRE.  Prior to his career in commercial real estate, O’Brien was a collegiate and professional baseball player, pitching up to the Triple-A level with the Oakland Athletics organization.

CITC Hires New Regional Coordinator and Opens Spokane Facility

The Construction Industry Training Council of Washington (CITC) has hired Ken Hill as the Eastern Washington regional coordinator. He will be responsible for CITC’s newest facility in Spokane, Wash. CITC also has facilities in Bellevue and Vancouver, Wash.

Hill graduated from CITC and became a journeyman electrician in 1993. Then, after working in the field, he took further training with CITC and earned an administrator certification for the state of Washington in 1999. He was the president of Mastercraft Electric for two years then opened his own firm, KM Electric.

He has served on CITC’s electrical apprenticeship committee since 1995 and has been an instructor for CITC since 2014. He will split his time between Bellevue and Spokane until June so he can fulfill his teaching commitment at CITC’s Tacoma location for the balance of this school year.

“Opening this new facility fulfills a huge need for trained construction workers in Eastern Washington,” said CITC president, Halene Sigmund. “We currently have more than 60 apprentices who will be attending classes in Spokane and have the capacity to easily double that number.” The nearly 13,000-square-foot space will house classrooms, labs and staff offices. “Within the next two years we anticipate some major growth in the Spokane area and plan to meet the needs of the industry with excellent apprenticeship and craft training opportunities for those who want to become skilled craft workers,” said Sigmund

When begin classes begin this September CITC will provide apprenticeship training for carpenters electricians, laborers and plumbers, If there is sufficient demand, HVAC classes will also be offered. In addition the facility will run continuing education classes for electrical and plumbing license renewals and task training courses such as crew leader and project supervisor certificate classes.

The Spokane facility is located at10424 W. Aero Road in Spokane. For information call 1-877-707-2482m or visit the CITC website at: http://www.citcwa.com/

About CITC

CITC provides state-approved apprenticeship and craft training in the carpentry, electrical, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, heavy equipment operator, painting, plumbing, laborers, residential electrical, low energy and sheet metal trades. CITC also runs continuing education classes for license renewal for plumbers and electricians. The program is dedicated to training, developing and retaining a skilled labor force for the construction industry and is both a nationally accredited and state-approved apprenticeship training program.

Bellevue City Councilmember John Stokes Announces Re-Election Campaign

Bellevue City Council member John Stokes has announced he will run for re-election to the Bellevue City Council.   The former Bellevue Parks and Community Services Board Member, award-winning education advocate, and retired attorney kicks off his re-election with the support of Mayor Claudia Balducci, Council members Lynne Robinson and John Chelminiak and State Senator Cyrus Habib, plus many others in the community.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to have served this community for the last four years,” said Stokes.  “As your Council member, I will continue to work every day to ensure Bellevue remains the “City in a Park” as it continues its journey to be the urban and cultural center of the Eastside.”

Four years ago, Stokes ran on a platform to bring balanced, bipartisan leadership to the Council.  Since his election to the Council, Stokes has helped move Light Rail forward on time and within budget while incorporating the best elements for the route. He also helped the Council reach a fiscally responsible budget that invests in the city’s needs now and for the future. This meant supporting investments in infrastructure and public safety while encouraging sound, responsible development and embracing the diversity and strength of the City’s vibrant neighborhoods.

Bellevue Mayor Claudia Balducci said, “"John brings a great deal of positive energy and creativity to the council and has pushed is to think and dream big.  He has also been someone who works well across philosophical and political lines to get good things done."

As a strong education advocate and outdoorsman, Stokes has remained committed to Bellevue’s kids including supporting our great public schools and promoting resources including the new Boys and Girls Club and Kids Quest facilities, the Downtown Park and Meydenbauer Bay Park, plus the trails and neighborhood parks that keep Bellevue a great community.

“Since my family and I moved to Bellevue over 20 years ago,” said Stokes, “I have been committed to the people, places and community that make this city great.  With your support, I will work every day to keep Bellevue the best place to live.”

In addition to his work on the Council, Stokes has been serving Bellevue on the boards of Eastside Pathways (a co-founder), Bellevue Schools Foundation, Friends of the Cedar River Watershed, Bellevue and Washington State PTA, and numerous city and regional boards and commissions.  As a practicing attorney for many years, Stokes specialized in representing small businesses and ordinary people, after doing complex litigation and business representation early on in his career.  He lives with his wife Bettina in the Woodridge neighborhood.

For more information, visit www.JohnStokes.org.

Sue Lundquist and Her AwesomeSOXX to Represent Eastside at Oscars

Congratulations goes to Eastsider Sue Lundquist, whose AwesomeSOXX have been chosen to be part of swag bags at the Oscars after parties this year!!

According to a post on her blog, Lundquist plans to wear a pair of her inspirational socks on the red carpet while donning an evening gown for the night's events.  If all goes right, by the end of the night, she will have some A List celebs sporting AwesomeSOXX too!

Congratulations Sue!