"Connecting Communities: How Social Media Strategies Can Boost Rotary Club Membership" via Zoom
2025-03-21 07:15 - 08:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Pouneh Kaufman / Goran Marinkovic – Founder / Partner / Both Gig Harbor Rotary members
TechPath Connect / Gig Harbor RotaryBesides their “day jobs” with TechPath Connect (www.techpathconnect.com), Pouneh and Goran have been instrumental in increasing membership at Gig Harbor Rotary Club. They will share an incredibly successful marketing campaign they have been involved with at Gig Harbor Rotary Club, bringing in 43 new members in 2024. They have a lot of wisdom to share, plus motivating stories about other clubs growing significantly in their District.
About the Speaker
Pouneh Minovi Kaufman is a distinguished leader and entrepreneur, recognized for her innovative contributions to the technology sector and her steadfast commitment to community service. As the founder of TechPath Connect, Pouneh has played a crucial role in integrating technology with education, thereby enabling individuals and organizations to leverage technological advancements for growth and development.
Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Pouneh actively participates in Rotary International, where she utilizes her skills and resources to spearhead impactful community projects. Her dedication to service and leadership within the Rotary community has garnered her respect and recognition from her peers.
Pouneh’s expertise encompasses strategic planning, project management, and digital transformation. She is adept at leading cross-functional teams, developing pioneering solutions, and driving organizational success. Her enthusiasm for technology and education is equaled by her commitment to affecting positive change in society. With comprehensive technical knowledge and a profound understanding of the social and economic issues confronting communities today, Pouneh is a sought-after speaker and mentor, inspiring others to pursue their objectives with determination and integrity.
Goran Marinkovic is a visionary technical entrepreneur dedicated to leveraging online technologies to enhance businesses and communities. With deep expertise in digital marketing, Goran has successfully driven growth and engagement for numerous organizations through strategic campaigns and innovative approaches. As the co-founder of TechPath Connect, his proficiency in Microsoft 365 has enabled him to streamline operations, improve productivity, and foster collaboration within organizations.
Goran’s commitment to utilizing technology for social good is evident in his projects that aim to bridge the digital divide, empower local businesses, and uplift communities. His passion for continuous learning and adaptation makes him a dynamic leader in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Goran is the webmaster and an active member of the Public Image Team, Scholarship Committee and Auction Committee at the Gig Harbor Rotary Club.

"Update from the Bellevue City Council"
2025-03-28 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Jared Nieuwenhuis – Councilmember
Bellevue City Council
What is happening in Bellevue? Here is your chance to find out! Councilmember Nieuwenhuis will share an update of the successes and challenges that face Bellevue as growth continues.
About the Speaker
Councilmember Jared Nieuwenhuis was first elected to the Bellevue City Council in November 2017, for a four-year term starting in January 2018. His focus is on neighborhoods and results-oriented local government. He was chosen deputy mayor in January 2020 and again in January 2022.
Jared represents the council on the King County Growth Management Planning Council, the Association of Washington Cities Federal Legislative Priorities Committee and the Sound Cities Association Public Issues Committee. He is council liaison to the Transportation Commission.
In his professional life, Jared manages marketing and communications for entertainment software publisher North America at Kalypso Media Group. Jared is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, pursued graduate studies at Brown University and is a graduate of both the Advance Bellevue and Bellevue Essentials community leadership programs.
Before joining the council, Jared served on the Bellevue Parks & Community Services Board. He has also served on the following other boards: Lifewire (which helps domestic violence victims), The Sophia Way (which helps women experiencing homelessness), the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce’s public affairs committee and the Lake Hills Neighborhood Association.
Awards Jared has received include 2023 Civic Leader of the Year from the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce, 2023 Tikkun Olam Award for Public Service (Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle), 2023 Hakarat Hatov Award for combating antisemitism in Washington State (Seattle Jewish Chapel, Seattle Sephardic Brotherhood and Bikur Cholim Machzikay Hadath), 2022 Eastside’s Most Influential People (425 Magazine) and 2022 Building Bridges Across the Nations Award for Public Service (Washington State India Trade Relations Action Committee).
Jared is the son of Dutch parents and an immigrant from Canada. He has a personal understanding of the value of diversity and the important role it plays in Bellevue’s continuing efforts to be a more inclusive city. He and his wife Lori live in the Lake Hills neighborhood with a young daughter.
An avid cyclist, Jared enjoys riding through Bellevue’s neighborhoods while taking in the city’s unique characteristics, and spending time with the family at Bellevue’s Downtown Park. He has lived in Bellevue since 2001.

"When Life Gives you Hurricanes, you go Surfing"
2025-04-04 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Bradley Carpenter – Author / retired Police Officer
Himself
Bradley Carpenter, author of Riding One More Wave, recounts his experiences as an Oakland Police Officer. He learned how to come out the other side of this violent world through surfing and offers tips on how to survive the stress of everyday life.
About the Speaker
Brad is a surfer, author and a turtle nerd. He splits his time between Sayulita Mexico and Puyallup Washington. He spent 21 years in Law Enforcement where he received 23 commendations and four medals of Valor. He found the healing aspects of the ocean helped him through the difficult times and he now volunteers with those suffering from PTSD with surf therapy and one on one coaching.

"Discover Seattle Humane"
2025-04-11 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Jessie Swisher Spiers – Executive Director
Seattle Humane
On April 11, Seattle Humane Executive Director, Jessie Swisher Spiers, will join us to share more about the important lifesaving work of Seattle Humane, serving over 100,000 pets and their people each year both at their shelter in Bellevue and also out in the community.
About the Speaker
Jessie Swisher Spiers is the Executive Director of Seattle Humane, bringing over two decades of nonprofit leadership experience across New York, London, Washington, D.C., and Seattle. Before her tenure at Seattle Humane, Jessie served as the Director of Events and Strategic Partnerships at The New York Public Library for a decade and led corporate giving efforts at the Science Museum in London. Under Jessie’s leadership, Seattle Humane continues to grow and adapt to meet the growing needs of our community, through direct services as well as advocacy at the state and local levels, with the goal of protecting and improving the lives of animals, even those outside the shelter. Jessie is unwavering in her commitment to fostering an inclusive and values-driven organizational culture, making Seattle Humane a great place to work, volunteer, and visit. Outside of work, Jessie and her husband, Matt, are devoted pet parents to two cats, Bean and Busby, and their dog, Leia. An avid reader quick with a book recommendation, Jessie also enjoys hiking, biking, cooking, and exploring Seattle’s local delights!

"Athletes for Kids (AFK) 2024 Recap" via Zoom
2025-04-18 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Marni Kurtz / Nick Riley – Executive Director / Mentoring Coordinator
Athletes for Kids (AFK)
Marni and Nick will share a brief overview of the AFK program with an emphasis on 2024 results. Two senior mentors for AFK will join and share about their experience s with their buddies. For newer members of BBRC, Marni and Nick have been wonderful in helping BBRC with volunteers for our “All in for Autism ” event and will be again this year, providing most of our youth volunteers.
About the Speaker
Marni Kurtz has been at the helm of Athletes for Kids for 7 years. Prior to that she worked in the education field. A So Cal transplant, Marni and her husband Greg have two adult children, Jordan and Tom, who are the pride and joy of their lives. Marni enjoys traveling, reading, eating great food and drinking even better wine and spending time with her extended family. Above all, Marni strives to incorporate the three values of Athletes for Kids, Acceptance, Friendship and Kindness in all that she does.
Nick Riley – Mentorship Coordinator – Athletes for Kids Youth Mentoring -As a former mentor with AFK’s Skyline chapter, Nick was an active mentor from the fall of 2009 through summer of 2012. Nick is currently the head varsity coach for Redmond Lacrosse and the mentorship coordinator for Athletes For Kids Youth Mentoring.

"Navigating Autism"
2025-04-25 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Marcee Merriam – Autism Navigator
Kindering (www.kindering.org)
Marcee will discuss the services that the Kindering Center provides for parents and children in diagnosing Autism and assisting them in navigating their way into the future. It is a challenging journey and requires special people to help in both the diagnosis as well as ongoing services and support! This morning, we have one of those special people, Marcee Merriam, to explain that journey!
About the Speaker
Marcee assists families for Autism diagnosis as well as therapies and support groups following a diagnosis. Having raised her son with Autism in Snohomish County, she now resides in Pierce County and is enjoying becoming acquainted with her new community.
Marcee is also involved with statewide committees as her passion lies in helping others build inclusive communities where children can share their unique gifts and talents. She has collaborated closely with providers in Eastern Washington and the Puget Sound area and had the privilege of working with the Latino and Asian communities to enhance access to Autism diagnosis and support services.

"Seattle Boat Company - A Second-Generation Family Business Transition!" Offsite at Seattle Boat Company in Bellevue
2025-05-02 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Elizabeth Bohling and Jeff Bohling – Co-Presidents
Seattle Boat Company
Seattle Boat Company was founded and built by Alan Bohling, long-time BBRC member, and his team over 40 years. Alan took a boat dealership (sales only) and built a full-service dealership offering sales of new boat models (Malibu, Barletta and Cobalt) as well as used boats, boat repairs, storage and fuel, plus a boat club. Today, Elizabeth and Jeff have taken the reigns from their father and the future looks bright. This morning, they will discuss their history with the business and their vision of SBC’s present and future as well as share their beautiful Newport Shores facility. Weather permitting, they will offer boat rides to BBRC members after the meeting, so bring a jacket to stay warm and enjoy a cool experience!
The address of the meeting is Seattle Boat Company, 3911 Lake Washington Boulevard SE, Bellevue WA 98006.
About the Speaker
Elizabeth functions as Co-President with her brother Jeff and joined Seattle Boat full-time in November 2015, when her dream to work for the family business became true. Through high school (and probably earlier), she worked in various seasonal roles including in the accounting department and parts department. Elizabeth studied Psychology and Child Development at Texas Christian University, and actively competed horses all through college. After working for two years in Texas, her dad, Alan, came to visit and asked if she was ready to move home as he was in need of a Human Resources department at Seattle Boat. They made the 40-hour road trip home in early December 2015. She started the HR department at Seattle Boat and had a steep learning curve. Elizabeth also worked as a Delivery Coordinator where she handled all the new and used boat closings for their Newport and Lake Tapps locations. After Covid, Seattle Boat hired an HR manager, who gradually took over her role as Delivery Coordinator as well, which allowed her and Jeff to become Co-Presidents, overseeing their various departments. They both actively lead the sales team, service teams, marina teams, and marketing departments. Along with her role at SBC, she is also on the Board of Trustees for the Northwest Marine Trade Association and the Boat Show Committee for the NMTA. Elizabeth feels incredibly lucky each day to be able to share her love for boating with the Seattle and North Idaho areas and work alongside her family.
Jeff Bohling, also Co-President, always believed that working for the family business was his plan. Both he and Elizabeth grew up in the business working various roles. Jeff learned the ropes from working detail to sales assistant in high school and working in various other areas through his college years. Jeff went to Gonzaga University and earned a Master of Accountancy while also playing baseball. In the summers, he worked in accounting and service at Seattle Boat. Jeff was drafted in 2017 by the Colorado Rockies and played 2 seasons before hanging up his cleats, after getting released at the end of spring training in his 3rd year. He appreciated the opportunity to experience an industry like baseball and today applies that competitiveness/grit to his work at SBC. It’s been a blast for him to learn and grow with Elizabeth while trying to build on everything that Alan built – he is excited for the growth potential over the next 5 years including new markets and more diversity.

"The 2025 Seattle Mariners"
2025-05-09 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Bill Krueger – Senior Baseball Analyst
Root Sports
Bill will discuss the Mariners’ outlook for the 2025 season as well as his philanthropic endeavors.
About the Speaker
Bill Krueger enjoyed a 13-year career in the major leagues and currently serves as a senior baseball analyst on Mariners broadcasts for ROOT Sports Northwest. He made his MLB debut in 1983 for the Oakland A’s and played for eight different teams, including the Seattle Mariners on two separate occasions, in 1991 and 1995. Krueger compiled a career record of 68-66 with a 4.35 ERA. His best statistical season came in 1991 with Seattle when he went 11-8 with a 3.60 ERA.
Since his retirement from baseball, Bill was the Director of Individual Philanthropy for NW Center (www.nwcenter.org). After 13 years as a financial advisor, Bill returned to wealth management managing business development for Coldstream Capital (www.coldstream.com) in 2016.
With his wife Jo, Krueger is a past co-president of the Cure Autism Now Northwest chapter, now merged with Autism Speaks. They were successful in making the NW Chapter the country’s first chapter to raise $1 million. They have publicly told the story of raising a daughter (Chanel) with autism.

"Welcome to the Hilton Bellevue!"
2025-05-16 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Tom Hope – General Manager
Hilton Bellevue
Cary Kopczynski, long-time BBRC member will introduce our speaker this morning, Tom Hope. Tom is the General Manager of the Hilton Bellevue and will meet with us and share more information about this Hilton property he manages. Please note our meeting room will be the Chelan Room which is more spacious than the Cascades Room where we met on Friday, May 9.
About the Speaker
Tom Hope has been the General Manager of the Hilton Bellevue since 2018.

No meeting today!
2025-05-23 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Thank you to All – United States Service members
from the past, and present!Remember them this Memorial Day weekend! We appreciate their willingness to protect our country and keep us safe!
About the Speaker
Our next in person meeting is Friday, May 30, 2025, at the Bellevue Hilton. Our speaker will be Rotary District 5030 District Governor (2024-2025) Rachele Bouchand!

"Creating a Bridge to Attract Young Professionals to Rotary"
2025-05-30 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Rachele Bouchand – District Governor 2024-25
Rotary International District 5030
Creating a Bridge to Attract Young Professionals to Rotary. There is a growing demand for leadership training, mentorship and making a meaningful impact in our communities. However, many don’t know that Rotary has been providing expertise in these areas for several years. We’ll discuss how to use storytelling to share our experiences. Additionally, we will explore existing programs and resources where people can deepen their leadership training, mentorship and increase their impact in their local and global communities. We’ll end with tangible examples of how to bridge the gap between Seattle International District Rotary Club’s existing strengths and connecting with others.
About the Speaker
Rachele currently serves as the Governor of District 5030. She’s been a member of the Bellevue Rotary Club since 2009 and is focused on growing leadership opportunities for our members through the RISE (Rotarians Inspired to Succeed and Engage) leadership program. Rachele was also a member of the Rotary International Next Generation Conference in 2014, which represented 30 emerging Rotary leaders across the United States. Lastly, she was able to blend her vocational and Rotary lives when she served as a member of the Global Polio Finance Committee.
Her Rotary classification is Financial Services-Family Office. Rachele currently serves as Managing Director of Pathstone, where she is responsible for advising families and single-family offices on a variety of wealth management and estate planning topics. She has over 20 years’ experience working with multi-generational wealth and foundations.

"Palestinians and Israelis: How did we get here and where do we go from here?"
2025-06-06 07:15 - 08:30 | The Bellevue Hilton, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, United States
Jim Barnhart – Senior Director, International Consulting firm
Himself
Jim Barnhart will offer an “on-the-ground” perspective on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, including a brief history and possible ways of lowering the state of the crisis when he joins us on Friday, June 6.
Jim will be introduced by Jenny Andrews.
About the Speaker
Jim Barnhart is currently the Senior Director for Agriculture with JE Austin, an international consulting firm. He also serves as an External Advisor to McKinsey and Company. Jim has nearly 40 years of international and domestic development experience. He spent over two decades at USAID, living and working across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia—overseeing programs in agriculture, economic growth, education, and water security. As Mission Director, he led USAID teams in Jordan, Albania, and Lebanon, and regularly served as Acting Ambassador and Acting Deputy Chief of Mission in Jordan, Albania, and Lebanon. Jim finished his diplomatic career as the Assistant to the Administrator, guiding the USAID Bureau of Resilience and Food Security during the pandemic and Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. He served as Co-Deputy Coordinator of the US Government’s Feed the Future Program, retiring as a Career Minister in the Senior Foreign Service. Most recently, Jim performed the role of Executive Director at Oxbow Farm and Conservation Center, outside of Seattle, where he guided work in salmon-safe organic farming, riparian restoration and preservation, and experiential education programs. Jim has a Ph.D. in Economics from Georgia State University, a Masters of International Relations from SAIS/Johns Hopkins, and a Bachelor’s degree from Furman University.

United States Golf Association (USGA): "For the Good of the Game"
2025-06-13 07:15 - 08:30 | The Bellevue Hilton, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, United States
Kristan Strout – Major Gift Officer
USGA Foundation
The USGA is a nonprofit, mission-based golf organization whose purpose is to unify the golf community; to showcase the game’s best and the USGA museum; to govern the game; and to advance issues important to golf’s future, with a focus on driving sustainability, accessibility and inclusion.
In 2023, the USGA launched the U.S. National Development Program (USNDP) – the country’s first unified pathway to nurture the potential of America’s top young golfers, starting with competitive junior golf and progressing to the pinnacles of the sport. The program’s goal is to identify, train, develop, fund and support the nation’s most promising young players – regardless of cultural, geographic or financial background. The USNDP provides financial grants designed to mitigate barriers of cost to promising junior golfers who demonstrate both financial need and the potential to progress through the USNDP pathway.
Kristan Strout, of the USGA Foundation, will provide the latest on the USNDP team and grant program and USGA’s top priorities to advance the game. She will also share opportunities to get involved and upcoming USGA championships in the area.
About the Speaker
Kristan Strout is a Major Gift Officer for the USGA Foundation covering the Pacific Northwest and Northern California. The Foundation serves as the member engagement and philanthropic giving program within the USGA. It secures resources to fulfill the USGA’s commitment to invest in programs and innovative solutions that best serve golf for all who love and play it.
A Boston resident, Kristan comes to the USGA with a background in college athletics having worked in the Athletic Department at Harvard University as Assistant Director of the Harvard Varsity Club and the Director of Women’s Basketball Operations. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Stonehill College where she was a two-time captain of the women’s basketball team, a Masters in Sports Leadership from Northeastern University, and an MBA from Husson University.

"The Madrone School / Autism Therapy in a School Setting" via Zoom
2025-06-20 07:15 - 08:30 | The Bellevue Hilton, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, United States
Dawn Myre – Executive Director
The Madrone SchoolDawn spoke to us a few weeks ago briefly on The Madrone School which provides a school setting for autistic children but today will tell us more about the school and its mission, vision, and values.
The Madrone School is a non-profit organization that provides an alternative to the public school system in the greater Seattle area. The school offers individualized services to autistic students and their families. Their multidisciplinary team uses evidence-based therapies and personalized academics to help each child reach their maximum potential. The Madrone School provides a 1:1 student-to-staff ratio to ensure each child receives the support they need.
About the Speaker
Dawn is a leader in healthcare and education with a passion for serving the underserved. As the new Executive Director at The Madrone School/The Grady Clinic she brings over 20 years of experience in program development and growth management to further the school’s mission of increasing accessibility to high quality therapeutic and academic services for children with autism.
Prior to The Madrone School Dawn was the Chief Operating Officer at the largest behavioral healthcare provider in the region; overseeing inpatient services, outpatient services, and an alternative school program that served over 120 students and 40+ school districts. Dawn is a Washington native and lives with her husband and two daughters in Redmond, Washington.

No Meeting Today!
2025-06-27 07:15 - 08:30 | The Bellevue Hilton, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, United States
Rotating the Wheels is – Saturday,
June 28 at Newport Shores Yacht Club
Welcome Kevin Klustner as the 2025-26 BBRC President! Thank you, Sheldon Sweeney, who ends his tenure as 2024-25 BBRC President!
About the Speaker
Looking forward to seeing you there.

No meeting today!
2025-07-04 07:15 - 08:30 | WA
Happy Fourth of July! – Enjoy Independence Day
and your holiday weekend!
Our next meeting is July 11 at the Bellevue Hilton.
About the Speaker
Megan Adams of Visit Bellevue will be BBRC’s speaker July 11, 2025!

"What's New and What's coming to Bellevue"
2025-07-11 07:15 - 08:30 | The Bellevue Hilton, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, United States
Megan Adams – Director of Destination Stewardship and Community Relations
Visit Bellevue
Visit Bellevue is the official Destination Management Organization for the City of Bellevue. They are proud to partner with local businesses to promote Bellevue to people across the globe and work alongside our community to build events and programs that serve our region and visitors alike. Megan will be sharing what’s new and what’s coming to Bellevue in the visitor economy. She invites you to check out their website and explore their incredible content, resources, and events! https://www.visitbellevuewa.com/
About the Speaker
Megan oversees destination stewardship, accessibility, and innovative arts and culture programming, while supporting Visit Bellevue’s marketing, communications, visitor experience, and destination sales programs. Megan is also responsible for leading community relations and aligning the city’s community and partner needs with Visit Bellevue’s tourism programs. According to Brad Jones, Executive Director of Visit Bellevue, “Megan has demonstrated her incredible ability to work with community stakeholders, and we are thrilled for her to lead innovative programs that focus on a sustainable visitor industry, promoting equitable economic opportunities, and preserving Bellevue’s cultures and environment as we develop Bellevue as a premier destination city.” [Follow Visit Bellevue on social media @visitbellevue and join the conversation.]
Megan brings over 20 years of dynamic experience in non-profit management, event coordination, and arts administration. Most recently, she served as Partnerships Manager at Visit Bellevue, where she fostered strong relationships with local businesses and stakeholders to enhance Bellevue’s tourism ecosystem. Her previous roles include Individual and Corporate Giving Manager at Issaquah’s Village Theatre, Marketing Manager and Event Coordinator at Mad Science, and host for Comcast’s “Home In-On-It” TV Show.
Megan is a member of the Bellevue Downtown Association and the Old Bellevue Merchant’s Association. She is also part of the Leadership Eastside Class of 2026, a program that develops community-focused leaders across the region. Her hobbies and passions evolve around the outdoors and the arts; she teaches dance and leads choreography on local productions.

"Prosthetic Restoration Project" via Zoom
2025-07-18 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Doug Pinkley – Co-owner
Center for Prosthetics Orthotics Inc
Doug, along with another prosthetist Garth Knapp, took over the program management of the La Paz clinic 5 years ago. Normally Doug goes to the clinic twice a year for two weeks each time. The type of help given patients includes diagnosis and solutions such as artificial limbs, braces, etc. As knowledge of our clinic grows by word of mouth in both Baha California and the mainland, patients come from hundreds of miles away as there are very few options for those who cannot afford to pay for their care.
About the Speaker
Doug Pinkley CPO LPO is co-owner of Center for Prosthetics Orthotics Inc in Seattle and Bellevue. He has been there since 2004. Doug has a BA in Psychology and BS in Prosthetics and Orthotics, both from the University of Washington. He also was a volunteer with Washington Orthotic and Prosthetic Association for 3 years to help monitor and affect change of the state’s legislative and regulation processes. Since October 2016, he has been a volunteer and Practice Manager at a La Paz Mexico prosthetics and orthotics clinic.

"Update on Bellevue College"
2025-07-25 07:15 - 08:30 | The Bellevue Hilton, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, United States
Dr. David May – President
Bellevue College
Dr. David May, President of Bellevue College, will join us to provide a general update about Bellevue College, where the college is headed, how they got here as well as what’s next.
Betsi Hummer will introduce Dr. May.
About the Speaker
Dr. David May began his tenure as President at Bellevue College on July 1, 2023. A Pacific Northwest native, Dr. May has nearly 30 years of experience as an educator and leader in higher education in the state of Washington. Dr. May has focused his career on student success and regional partnerships. Holding a doctorate in political science from Washington State University, Dr. May is an expert in the area of Supreme Court politics. He is passionate about the role of higher education in producing responsible and engaged citizens and as an engine of social mobility.
Recognizing the critical role of public higher education as a point of access, opportunity, and excellence, Dr. May continues to focus on expanding educational opportunities for the entire range of diverse students that make up our region and our state.
In his time off, Dr. May spends time with his wife, daughter, and their dog Roscoe. He enjoys traveling with his family and year-round outdoor activities including biking, hiking, and backcountry skiing.

"Atlas Assistance Dogs: Creating Partnerships, Changing Lives"
2025-08-01 07:15 - 08:30 | The Bellevue Hilton, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, United States
Jennifer “Jen” Kolar – President
Atlas Service Dogs
Atlas Assistance Dogs is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support people with disabilities to train their own service dogs, educate ethical trainers, strengthen the human-canine bond, and promote a more inclusive society.
One in four Americans lives with a disability, yet fewer than 1% benefits from a service dog. High costs, long waitlists, and a lack of qualified and ethical trainers are all barriers for people to access the service dog that could change their life. Learn how Atlas is breaking down these barriers, creating partnerships, and changing lives.
About the Speaker
Jennifer Kolar is a founding board member and President of Atlas Assistance Dogs. In her nine-year tenure at Atlas, she has played a pivotal role, developing programs that cater to individuals with disabilities and their canine companions while also spearheading the creation of professional training offerings for service dog trainers.
Prior to her involvement with Atlas, Jennifer co-founded and nurtured a for-profit business specializing in owner-based service dog training.

"Selling Windows - Life After Microsoft"
2025-08-08 07:15 - 08:30 | The Bellevue Hilton, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, United States
Rick Locke – Owner / Entrepreneur
Windows, Doors and More and affiliated window businesses in the NorthwestRick will discuss his business journey after leaving Microsoft in 2009 to buy a small business, and share a few lessons learned in the corporate world that have informed and helped achieve my success as a business owner. He will compare and contrast his corporate experience with entrepreneurship and share some of his experiences with small business acquisition, ownership and management. Rick will also provide a bit of insight into the current economic conditions impacting commercial and residential construction in our market.
About the Speaker
Born nine months after the launch of Sputnik, Rick grew up in Eastern Washington in a time of rapid social, economic and technological change. He graduated from Washington State University (Go Cougs!) in 1981 and has been selling Windows ever since.
He and his wife Tammy raised two sons, first in Woodinville and then on Clyde Hill, where they lived for 20 years. They have since downsized to a “cottage in the woods” on the 9th tee of Overlake golf course in Medina, where they have been for the past 8 years. They also have homes in La Quinta, California, and Bozeman Montana. Those of you with sons that have played basketball in the Eastside Traveling League over the years (there are thousands), may recognize Rick as the organizer and coordinator of that program for fourteen years.
Rick has sold windows in many forms. First residential windows for your homes at a local company called Milgard, then commercial glass and windows for major commercial buildings up and down the west coast. The MGM Grand in Las Vegas was his biggest project. That was 650,000 square feet of glass! He had a manufacturer’s rep business that he ultimately sold, that still has the website “Glassguys.com”.
Then, with a dramatic career change, he followed in his wife’s footsteps and went to Microsoft. There he sold Microsoft Windows, ultimately managing the Worldwide Dell Account team, responsible for the overall corporate relationship and billions of dollars of annual revenue.
Upon turning 50 (old by Microsoft standards) Rick decided to leave and pursue business ownership. That is where John Martinka ran into Rick. He was part of his year long quest to find a small business that could satisfy his entrepreneurial itch and keep him busy for the next few years. That was in 2013.
Since then, Rick has leveraged that first acquisition in Seattle, to nine locations in five states and over $50m in annual revenues. Today Rick owns Windows, Doors & More in Seattle, Montana Sash & Door in Bozeman, Kalispell, Jackson Wyoming and Couer d’Alene Idaho, and Island Sash & Door in Anacortes, Freeland, Eugene and Bend, Oregon.
His companies specialize in high end residential fenestration products. Some of you likely have products from his company in your homes. A significant percentage of their products are imported, so he may have lots to say about Tariffs (though we don’t have time for that rat hole).
Rick has also served on the Board of Directors for the National Glass Association, the country’s largest and most comprehensive trade organization for the glass, glazing and fenestration industry, for the last eight years. He is currently the Chairman of the Board. In that role he has travelled around the country presenting to State Chapters of the NGA on the “State of the Industry” as well as tightening the relationship between he national and local chapters. I expect we will hear some of that presentation as well

“Living a Legacy that Matters …A Lifestyle of Generosity!” via Zoom
2025-08-15 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Alan Pratt – President, Northwest Region
The Signatry
Today’s program is truly stories displaying “Service Above Self!” Alan Pratt, a former long time (and missed) member of Bellevue Breakfast Rotary, will share wonderful stories of the generosity of his clients in providing legacy philanthropy. He will discuss both legacy gifts scheduled after his client’s passing as well as the newer trend to fulfill those legacy gifts while they are still alive and can see the benefits of their philanthropy.
About the Speaker
Alan Pratt, a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy, serves as the President of The Signatry’s Northwest Region. With a passion for fostering transformative, biblical generosity, Alan partners with families to provide the creative tools, strategies, and insights needed to maximize their giving and create a lasting legacy. Rooted in trust, deep listening, and cultivating lifelong relationships, he draws on over three decades of personal and professional experience in guiding families to flourish across the generations. As a second-generation steward of family wealth, Alan brings unique personal understanding to his work, helping families model biblical generosity that aligns with their values and passions. In alignment with The Signatry’s mission to inspire and facilitate revolutionary generosity, Alan empowers families to leverage donor-advised funds, noncash asset giving and innovative financial tools, equipping them to make meaningful contributions to causes close to their hearts. His vision is to help families not only give generously, but also to live generously, impacting future generations and creating a ripple effect of lasting change.

“Handling customers who complain, as well as non-complainers, using AI”
2025-08-22 07:15 - 08:30 | The Bellevue Hilton, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, United States
Bill Price – Founder and President
Driva Solutions LLC
. “AI is becoming an essential tool to handle customers who complain or have simple questions and will soon enable organizations to identify and delight customers who do not bother to complain. Since non-complainers outnumber complainers by 4 to 20 to 1, and they churn at a much higher rate, Bill Price will share use cases using AI to diagnose and repair customer experiences.”
About the Speaker
Bill Price started Driva Solutions in September 2001 to help companies achieve the delicate balance between cost containment and greater customer loyalty. Among his company’s 160 clients are American Express, Avalara, Costco, Expedia, Google, Hyatt, McDonald’s, Southern California Edison, Stanford University, T-Mobile, and Vodafone. His new DrivaAI division is building a family of GenAI/LLM-based products to improve customer experience.
Bill co-founded the 9-country LimeBridge Global Alliance in early 2002 and chairs the 30-company Global Operations Council. He served as Associate Editor for the Journal of Creating Value, has been for many years an Advisor and frequent contributor to CustomerThink, has lectured at four business schools, and is the co-author of four books: The Best Service is No Service (2008), Your Customer Rules! (2015), The Frictionless Organization (2022), and Zero Complaints (2025). He is working on “book 5” that will come out in Spring 2026.
Bill served as Amazon’s 1st WW VP of Customer Service, and before that was Vice President & General Manager of MCI Call Center Services, COO & CFO with a start-up software company in San Francisco, and a Senior Engagement Manager with McKinsey & Company in San Francisco and Stockholm.
Bill received his undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College and his MBA from Stanford University and lives outside of Seattle in Bellevue, Washington.

“A Compassionate Approach to Biohazard Situations – Bio Clean Inc.”
2025-08-29 07:15 - 08:30 | The Bellevue Hilton, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, United States
Rhea Toles – Vice President and Owner
Bio Clean Inc.Rhea’s discussion today will expand on the following – Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) is one of those interesting and unique programs we see on our TV screens — often sensationalized and founded in a “Whodunit?” storyline — but in real life, after evidence has been gathered, someone needs to clean up the aftermath. That’s where Bio Clean Inc. comes in.Well … sometimes.If not a crime scene, Bio Clean may also be called to help clean up in cases of unattended or self-inflicted deaths, hoarding situations, evictions, drug use, or any otherwise biohazardous (and often unpleasant or traumatic) environments.“It’s more than just cleaning — it’s therapy,” said Bio Clean owner, Rhea Toles. “We can clean out a whole house in a day, but what puts us back [timing-wise] is really dealing with a client. People think, ‘Oh, you’re just a cleaning company,’ but we are actually suicide-training certified, we’re first aid certified … It’s a lot more than that.”
About the Speaker
Rhea Toles is Vice President of Bio Clean Inc. headquartered in Marysville. Rhea and her husband acquired Bio Clean in 2022 from the founder, a first responder, who had started the business in 1998. Bio Clean is a woman- and minority-owned disaster response, biohazard and meth lab cleanup, and crime scene cleaner serving Washington.

The "Yes, and..." Manager: Fostering Creativity in Organizations!
2025-09-05 07:15 - 08:30 | The Bellevue Hilton, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA, 98004, United States
Bridget Quigg – Speaker, event host and author
BQ Productions
How do you bring out the best in others? Treat them like a genius! Coming from a background in both improvisational theater and Seattle tech startups, speaker Bridget Quigg will guide us through a session of games and lessons on creativity and collaborating with others. We’ll discuss the concept of being a “Yes, and…” manager and how that can transform an organization.
About the Speaker
Bridget Quigg is a 15-year tech veteran and founder of the “You’re a Genius” workshop series. After a successful career as a marketing director at some of Seattle’s hottest startups, Bridget decided to take her long history in comedy and teach corporate teams about creativity, collaboration, and the power of having fun together. She’s written and toured five, one-woman comedy shows, including her most recent one “Techlandia” which was featured in Geekwire and on NPR. She’s also the author of three books on intuition and creativity, including, “You’re Intuitive: A Guidebook for Hearing Your Inner Wisdom.” Consistently ranked as a favorite presenter at Microsoft events, Bridget likes to keep her sessions uplifting and fast-paced so that everyone goes home with a fresh perspective and ideas to take back to their team. Bridget is a graduate of Stanford University

"Intertwined Roots: Healing Communities and The Ecosystems after Conflict in the Colombian Caribbean" via Zoom
2025-09-19 07:15 - 08:30 | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Sindy J. Martínez Callejas & Dr. Felipe Roa-Clavijo – Researchers in Columbia S.A.
See bios below
This talk presents research conducted by Sindy Martinez and Dr. Felipe Roa-Clavijo, two Colombian researchers working in the region of Montes de María, in the Colombian Caribbean. Armed conflict caused deforestation and the displacement of rural communities in the year 2000. After residents returned, led by a resilient group of women who drew attention to the recovery of their territory and the endangered dry forest ecosystem, they now run a yam-producing association and a plant nursery to support restoration efforts. This case shows the strong link between conflict recovery, environmental restoration, grassroots leadership, as well as the importance of interdisciplinary research with high impact in their territory.
About the Speaker
Sindy J. Martínez Callejas is a researcher at the Alexander von Humboldt Biological Resources Research Institute. She holds a degree in Ecology from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana (Colombia) and a Master’s, Interdisciplinary Development Studies from Universidad de los Andes (Colombia). With over 13 years of experience in participatory research, her work primarily focuses on the sustainable use and conservation of biodiversity. She is particularly interested in understanding the relationships between society and nature and seeks to bridge the gap between these two spheres through participatory science approaches.
Dr. Felipe Roa-Clavijo holds a PhD in International Development from the University of Oxford and a Master’s, Public Administration from Seattle University. He is an expert in food security, agriculture, and rural development. He is the author of the books The Politics of Food Provisioning in Colombia (Routledge, 2022) and Política en el Plato (Ediciones Uniandes, 2024) and several documents in specialized publications. He is currently a professor at the School of Government at Universidad de los Andes in Bogota, Colombia, and Associate Researcher at the University of Oxford.
