"Helping Kids with Autism and Other Challenges"
2023-04-28 07:15 - 08:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Salvation Army Eastside Corps, 911 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA, 98008, United States
Rita Harris / Marni Kurtz – Puppy Raiser / Executive Director
Dogs for Better Lives / Athletes for Kids
Today we will have a program with two organizations being represented.
Rita Harris will discuss Dogs for Better Lives. Dogs for Better Lives is involved with training puppies to become Assistance Dogs – for Hearing assistance, Autism assistance and as facility dogs. Facility Dogs are trained to do specific, skilled tasks and placed with working professionals or volunteers to help support them in their work with vulnerable populations and persons with disabilities (physical, mental, cognitive, sensory, or developmental). (15 minutes via Zoom)
Today Marni Kurtz will update us on Athletes for Kids. Athletes for Kids serves children in 1st-12th grades who have disabilities and special needs of all kinds. They have been a big supporter of BBRC’s All in for Autism event the last few years. (15 minutes in-person)
About the Speaker
Rita Harris is a Puppy Raiser with Dogs for Better Lives, turning that puppy into a service dog. She will be joining us from Kitsap county via Zoom.
Marni Kurtz is the Executive Director of Athletes for Kids, an organization that has done a wonderful job of assisting BBRC in publicizing our All in for Autism event the last few years!

"A Navy SEAL's Mission to Give Back and Honor the Fallen"
2023-05-05 07:15 - 08:30
Tim Cruikshank – Founder & CEO / Lt. Commander (Retired)
Bonefrog Coffee Company / US NavyToday Tim will share with BBRC members the mission of Bonefrog Coffee, how it was created and the meaning behind the Bonefrog in the SEAL Teams. They take the saying “Long Live the Brotherhood” seriously. It is a life-long commitment to their Teammates before they go into combat that they will take care of each other’s families if something happens. The mission of Bonefrog Coffee is to Honor the Fallen, continue to say their names and give back to the Naval Special Warfare Community.
Tim will share with us one of the amazing foundations supporting these efforts. The Navy SEAL Fund was created by SEAL’s for SEAL’s and is doing some outstanding work to help others. Your money goes directly to help those in need and no one in this organization takes a paycheck.
About the Speaker
Tim Cruikshank is the Founder and CEO of Bonefrog Coffee Company. a Veteran-owned and operated premium, small batch coffee roastery in the Pacific Northwest. Tim is a native of Seattle, Washington who enlisted in the US Navy in 1992. He graduated from the US Navy Basic Underwater Demolition school BUD/S class 182 in 1992. His career spanned 25 years in the Navy and includes time spent at the CIA. He retired in 2016 from the US Navy as a Lieutenant Commander, having served in various conflicts worldwide.His personal awards include the Bronze Star with Valor, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendations Medal (5), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2) and various campaign medals and unit citations. Tim is designated as a SEAL, Fleet Marine Force Officer (FMF) and Dive Medical Officer (DMO).

“Overcoming Depression-It Could Happen to You”
2023-05-12 07:15 - 08:30
Steve Waltar – Attorney / Owner
Legacy Estate Planning LLC
Ever wonder what would happen to you if your life started to feel like Job way back in biblical times? What would it take to fully undue your belief in your work, your friends, yourself, your belief in God. To lose all hope. Unfortunately, it has happened to many. I’ll recount my story of the deep dive into full blown depression and the journey back out to full recovery. This story is not for the faint of heart.
About the Speaker
Steve Waltar is a long-time member of Bellevue Breakfast Rotary. He will share a very personal story this morning in hope that it will help others who may be confronted by depression.

"What's New in your Dental Office?"
2023-05-19 07:15 - 08:30
Dr. Michael Ornelas – Dentist
Bellevue Modern Dentistry
Dental offices, like the rest of the world, have evolved and changed over the years. This morning Dr. Michal Ornelas of Bellevue Modern Dentistry will share his process for a new patient and the most impactful changes. He will start by describing a new patient visit to their clinic, start to finish. Next will be a discussion of some of the technology, materials, and instruments they use to guide and help patients to a healthier mouth. Dr. Ornelas will discuss the “mouth-body connection” to help us appreciate how oral health can impact overall health. He will also discuss 3D imaging, digital x-rays, digital impressions for same day crowns, and targeted treatment plans using salivary diagnostics to treat gum disease. This is an informative presentation to help us all understand dental hygiene better!
About the Speaker
Dr. Ornelas is a general dentist who completed his training at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine in Denver, Colorado. He moved to the Seattle area in 2018 and started his dental practice, Bellevue Modern Dentistry, at the start of 2020. Dr. Ornelas provides routine hygiene treatment, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and implant treatment solutions to help patients achieve healthier, happier lives. Dr. Ornelas has worked closely with dental colleagues to educate and train upcoming dentists using digital techniques to provide patients with modern solutions using CAD/CAM technology. Dr. Ornelas enjoys teaching, skiing, walking his dog Lily, and enjoying a delicious Chipotle burrito in his down time. An avid Star Wars fan, Dr. Ornelas enjoys talking about new and old lore surrounding the current state of

"Capitalism and Entrepreneurship – Creating opportunities for Peace in a corner of Congo"
2023-05-26 07:15 - 08:30
Alexis Ruhumuriza / Dean Wagner – Executive Director & Pastor / Board Member
Congo Peace & Bellevue First Presbyterian Church / Congo Peace
Alexis and Dean will discuss the following:
1. The DR Congo is a vast county full of amazing resources – yet the average person lives a life of abject poverty, intense uncertainty and chronic conflict amidst this land of awesome opportunities.
2. Powerful forces in the country find it is to their benefit to foster on-going conflict between tribes and peoples to facilitate resource hoarding and power development.
3. Congo Peace – believing capitalism and entrepreneurship are keys to change and prosperity – is working to break the cycle of poverty and conflict through the development of ethical leaders with an entrepreneurial mind set, critical thinking skills, concern for others and the courage that it will take to transform their community.
4. Congo Peace has seen the success of this model at Ashesi University (Ghana) and in Rwanda since the 1994 Genocide.

About the Speaker
Alexis Ruhumuriza was born in South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and moved to Rwanda when barely a teen. As a teenager, Alexis founded a Christian school for children in Kigali, Rwanda – Rwanda Faith Academy.

While there, he connected with an American mission team from Bellevue Presbyterian Church (Bel Pres) in Bellevue, WA. He also met his wife Chantal. Through his American connections, he and his family relocated to Washington state. He became a pastor at Bel Pres/New Hope Revival – a worshipping community of East African people. Since that time, Pastor Alexis has also founded Agape in Home Care and Congo Peace.

Alexis and Chantal have four beautiful children. He is a committed Christian who believes that with God all things are possible. Pastor Alexis is known for his engaging smile and his joyous exclamation “Hallelujah!”

Dean Wagner is a retired health care leader and Air Force Officer who has resided in Bellevue since 1990.

He is in active leadership roles for various US and African and based not-for-profits.

Dean was born in a small rural village in Nebraska to a mercantile and farming family. After serving his Active Duty Commitment as an Airforce Officer he moved to Bellevue to pursue a civilian career while continuing to serve in the Air Force Reserve.

Hobbies include: travel, wood working, hiking, x-country skiing, kayaking, motorcycling, reading history, and exploring world cultures. Dean is married, with one Son and two grandchildren.

"Safer Schools and Violence Prevention through Arts Education"
2023-06-02 07:15 - 08:30
Louie Praseuth – Creative Director / Co-founder
The Good Foot Arts CollectiveToday BBRC members will learn about the impacts of addressing violence prevention within teen culture, the Good Foot Arts Collective strategies, outcomes and updates from their efforts.
About the Speaker
Louie and May Praseuth are teen violence prevention advocates. Working directly with the student population in South Seattle and developing innovative and culturally relevant tools for diverse communities to address violence before it begins. Both bring over 20 years of experience in youth mentorship, intervention, social/emotional literacy, domestic violence awareness and curriculum development. They both direct the small non-profit making a big impact since 2006.

“Washington Department of Children, Youth, and Families”.
2023-06-09 07:15 - 08:30
Julie Pettit – Adoption Program Manager
Division of Child Welfare, State of Washington
Julie Pettit will discuss changes in both the federal and Washington state child welfare systems over the past five years to include moving toward more guardianships. Her presentation will be via Zoom since she is located in Vancouver Washington.
About the Speaker
Julie Pettit has a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Washington and is licensed as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington. Her experience in child welfare expands over 20 years to include work in Oregon and Washington. She began working for Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families (previously known as Children’s Administration under DSHS) in 2008. She provided adoption services for foster children as a front-line worker for six years prior to becoming a supervisor for a unit of adoption workers. In 2019, Ms. Pettit became the Adoption Program Manager for the Department of Children, Youth and Families. This position provides guidance and support to adoption caseworkers in the field as well as work with legislation and policy implementation.

“Top Pot Doughnuts & Coffee 2.0: Operating in the Post-Pandemic Environment”
2023-06-16 07:15 - 08:30
Jim Eschweiler – Chief Executive Officer
Top Pot Doughnuts
A brief history of Seattle’s iconic doughnut brand and the key inflection points in its story prior to 2020, followed by a discussion of the short and long-term impacts of the pandemic. How do changes in consumer habits and expectations–coupled with economic uncertainty–impact both strategy and implementation?
About the Speaker

No Meeting Today
2023-06-23 07:15 - 08:30
Rotating the Wheel – is Saturday
June 24, 2023
See you at Newport ShoresYacht Club to celebrate the end of the reign of Tom and welcoming Ruben Saturday.
About the Speaker
Hope you can make it if you are a BBRC member!

No meeting today!
2023-06-30 07:15 - 08:30
Have a Happy
Fourth of July!Thank you to Tom Leonidas as the President of BBRC for the 2022-23 Rotary Year. His last day is today, June 30, 2023! President Tom has done a great job.
About the Speaker
Ruben Ladlad takes over as the new President of BBRC on Saturday, July 1 for the 2023-24 Rotary Year. Ruben will do a great job!

2023-24 Rotary year - BBRC Leadership
2023-07-07 07:15 - 08:30
Ruben Ladlad – President
Bellevue Breakfast Rotary Club
Ruben will discuss the BBRC Board members and their roles for this Rotary year! This is also a great time to sign up for your committees as a contributing and participating member of Bellevue Breakfast Rotary
About the Speaker
Ruben’s reign as BBRC President started July 1, 2023 and will end on June 30, 2024.

"ATF 101"
2023-07-14 07:15 - 08:30
Jason Chudy – Public Information Officer
Seattle Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, US Dept. of Justice
Jason Chudy will cover the makeup of ATF as a whole, the makeup of the Seattle Field Division, as well as what their operational areas cover in both geography and mission. It also covers the criminal enforcement and regulatory missions of ATF.
About the Speaker
Jason Chudy is the public information officer for the Seattle Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
He transitioned to ATF from the Department of Energy’s Office of River Protection in Richland, Wash., where he worked for nearly 2 ½ years.
Joining federal service in July 2011, he served as a public affairs specialist at the U.S. Forces Korea/United Nations Command/U.S.-Republic of Korea Combined Forces Command and as the chief of public affairs for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Far East District in Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Between April 2009 and June 2011, he served in a variety of public affairs and media-related positions in Iraq, Afghanistan and Qatar with the Department of Defense and NATO, including serving as a counter-improvised explosive device multimedia team program manager in Afghanistan and an Army heavy brigade combat team public affairs specialist in Iraq.
After graduating from high school in May 1988, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving 21 years, mostly overseas, including tours on three aircraft carriers – two of which were based in Japan – and the flagship of the U.S. 6th Fleet in Gaeta, Italy.
Jason holds a Master’s Degree in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma.

“Why Becoming Frictionless is an Essential Strategy”
2023-07-21 07:15 - 08:30
Bill Price – President
Driva Solutions, A LimeBridge Global Alliance founding partner
Customer experience is now viewed as more important than pricing or the other classic marketing “P” words. Customers have more choice, share their good and bad stories widely, and will change when companies don’t meet their needs — spoken or unspoken. Companies that are removing friction and striving to make it easy to work with them, “frictionless organizations”, are on the path to retain their customers and their staff, and thereby sustain higher levels of profitability. In this presentation, Bill Price will share findings that he and his co-author uncovered after interviewing 14 organizations that are becoming frictionless, and will profiles nine steps with specific examples including “Eliminate” and “Learn”.
About the Speaker

"Demystifying ChatGPT and Generative AI""
2023-07-28 07:15 - 08:30
Girish Bhatia – GM, Technology Strategy & Growth Leader, Cloud & Digital Transformation
Microsoft
This morning everyone will have a chance to become more knowledgeable on the upcoming technologies of today and their potential impact. Girish Bhatia will share his perspectives on the field of Generative AI and its most popular implementation, ChatGPT, both as an enthusiastic enabler and a healthy sceptic of the technology and its impact.
About the Speaker
Girish Bhatia is at the forefront of innovation programs at Microsoft’s Cloud Operations and Innovation group, working with next generation cloud technologies and the infrastructure required to run them. Throughout his career, he has had the opportunity to work on emerging technologies and has both a front seat view and often times on stage in the making of these technologies. With a 25-year career working in the technology industry, Girish has first-hand experiences in working through hype cycles and groundbreaking technologies that are here to stay working with companies such as Microsoft, Cray and Amazon.

Treehouse- Foster Care is a community issue"
2023-08-04 07:15 - 08:30
Beth Bruder /Alecia Kleiner – Relationship Development Officer / Director of Community Giving
Treehouse For Kids
Treehouse has become Washington’s leading organization addressing the academic and other essential supports of youth in foster care. We approach our work with a fierce commitment toward equity, understanding that it is an investment in our mission and shared success. We will be presenting an overview of foster care, Treehouse’s mission, and programmatic goals.
About the Speaker
Beth Bruder: Beth is a Relationship Development Officer and is a member of the Major Gifts Team. Beth is from the Midwest, is a former educator, has three children and is passionate about social justice, music and reading.
Alecia Kleiner: Alecia is the director of community giving – overseeing volunteer program, drives, events and annual fund. She has six children, including four siblings adopted from foster care and is passionate about systems change, hiking and live music.

"The Seattle Seahawks and the 12s"
2023-08-11 07:15 - 08:30
Mike Flood – Vice President, Outreach and External Affairs
Seattle Seahawks
Since the start of the Seattle Seahawks franchise of the National Football League in 1976, the fan base has been renowned for their capacity to make noise and fervently support their team. Today Mike Flood will share the dedication of the Seattle Seahawks and their fan base, better known as the “12s” (despite claims of Texas A & M), to serve their communities.
About the Speaker
Mike Flood joined the Seattle Seahawks on July 1, 1997. He helped spearhead the state-wide campaign that resulted in the passage of Referendum 48 to build the new football/soccer stadium and exhibition complex. A Seattle native, Mike received a B.A. in Industrial Education from Washington State University and a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of North Carolina. He owned and operated Western Flyer Air Service, an agricultural flying service in Fort Scott, Kansas. He served as a pilot in the United States Coast Guard and retired as a Commander in 1996 after 20 years of service. Mike serves on the boards of Camp Patriot, the Association of Washington Business, Permission to Start Dreaming and Empower Youth Network. Flood was awarded the 2019 “Person of the Year” award from UNCF. He has also received the “Outstanding Service to Veterans” award from the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs, and “I Care About Kids” award from Mentoring Works Washington.

“The Narrative That Shifts the Future”
2023-08-18 07:15 - 08:30
Chris Hare – Owner and Principal
The Storied Future
What is the future you’re trying to create for yourself, your family, your customers, or your company? What stands in the way of creating that future?
While there are countless external factors over which you have little control, the focus of our time together will be on the one factor you can control—your narrative. Chris will define what a narrative is, explore how it can transform (or sink) a leader or a company, and share hard-won insights from storied leaders—at companies such as Logitech, Bain & Company, and Netflix—who have used narrative to shift the future for themselves and their companies.
About the Speaker
Chris Hare is the founder and principle of The Storied Future, a strategic narrative consultancy serving B2B clients in midmarket and enterprise companies. Chris helps leaders translate their business strategies into narratives that align the right people—from the boardroom to the buyer—around a shared vision of the future that unlocks transformation. His services include innovation narratives for shifting the future of an industry, transformation narratives to help organizations navigate complex change, and leadership narratives to help purpose-driven CEOs to shift the way they lead.
Chris’s clients include Amazon, Microsoft, SAP, Concur, and The Bar X Project, a pro bono client that reunites combat-wounded Marines with their battle buddies to promote healing through fly fishing.
Chris and his wife Michele live with their two teenagers and two goldendoodles and zero chickens in Fall City.

"How Alaska Airlines is Taking-Off After the Pandemic"
2023-08-25 07:15 - 08:30
Constance von Muehlen – EVP / Chief Operating Officer
Alaska Airlines
Seattle-based Alaska Airlines has always been contrarian. While others hunkered down during the pandemic, Alaska made big investments to support their people and a reliable operation, start new destinations, join the OneWorld alliance, reimagine the airport experience, and place their largest aircraft order in history with Boeing. Chief Operating Officer Constance von Muehlen will talk through how the airline is leading the industry in reliability and how the leadership team is thinking about the future.
About the Speaker
Constance von Muehlen serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Alaska Airlines, overseeing the day-to-day operations on the ground and in the air. A 30-year aviation veteran who received her leadership training flying Black Hawk helicopters as a captain in the U.S. Army, Constance brings a proven track record of safety and operational excellence to the role. With a reputation for valuing people and doing the right thing, she approaches her work emphasizing safety, data analysis and continuous improvement in service to our guests and the frontline employee team. Constance most recently served as Alaska’s senior vice president of maintenance and engineering, where she led all safety, compliance and operational performance of the airline’s mainline Boeing and Airbus fleet. She previously served as chief operating officer at Alaska Air Group’s regional carrier Horizon Air from 2018 to 2019. Constance joined Alaska Airlines in 2011 and spent her initial years in various maintenance leadership roles, including as managing director of airframe, engine and component maintenance. Concurrently, she oversaw the Virgin America technical operations team, and was responsible for all aspects of Airbus fleet maintenance.
Before joining Alaska, Constance spent 20 years in aviation maintenance, including time at Pratt & Whitney Canada, and as director of airframe maintenance at Air Canada. Constance began her career as an aviation officer in the U.S. Army, flying helicopters and leading flight operations throughout the world. She holds an FAA Commercial Instrument Helicopter Pilot’s License, graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt. Most recently, Constance graduated from the Executive MBA program at the Foster School of Business at the University of Washington.

“Awaken to the Extraordinary Opportunity of Rotary”
2023-09-01 07:15 - 08:30
Kaj Pedersen – District Governor
Rotary District 5030BBRC is so fortunate to have one of our own, DG Kaj Pedersen join us. Kaj will discuss “Awaken to the Extraordinary Opportunity of Rotary” and explain the wonderful opportunities Rotary offers.
About the Speaker
District Governor Kaj Pedersen is a member of Bellevue Breakfast Rotary as well as a Past President of BBRC.

"Thrive in a VUCA World: Preparing Yourself and Your Teams for the 21st Century"
2023-09-08 07:15 - 08:30
Mike Schindler – CEO / Podcast Host / Co-Executive Producer
Operation Military Family / IT’S VUCA
From the pandemic to economic freefall and AI, the future is moving fast. The military calls it the age of VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity). So how do you manage constant uncertainty for leaders and employees amid exponential change? Mike will reveal the little-known practices used by Zen Masters, elite military teams, Olympic athletes, and the top 1% of companies to OVERCOME UNCERTAINTY, improve mental and emotional well-being, and achieve personal and professional success.
About the Speaker
Mike Schindler is a US Navy veteran, author of two highly endorsed books, the national podcast host of The
Military Wire, which features interviews with some of America’s most elite men and women who have served
this country, and Co-Executive Producer of IT’S VUCA: The Secret to Living in the 21st Century documentary that
features 17 of our nation’s top experts on how to navigate chaotic times. He has been featured in USA
Today, CBS Radio, Entrepreneur Radio, the Lars Larson Show, the Boston Globe, Q13 FOX, Yahoo Finance, and
others.
Mike is also the CEO of Operation Military Family and is known throughout the US as a subject matter expert on
leadership development, negotiation secrets, and veteran transition issues. Since 2012, he has helped local,
state, federal agencies as well as Fortune 500 companies improve team morale and retention. His “Prepare,
Plan, & Execute with Purpose and Passion” has helped well over 10,000 individuals realize their true mission,
purpose, and identity in life, leading to happier families and more solid financial standings.
Mike is a guest writer for several national publication and the author of two books: “U.S. Veterans in
the Workforce: Why the 7% are America’s Greatest Asset” and “Operation Military Family” – which is endorsed
by retired General Tommy Franks and retired General Peter Chiarelli.

“A Journey – from Content Delivery to Content Creation!”
2023-09-15 07:15 - 08:30
M. P. (Mike) Woodward – Novelist / Author
Penguin Random House / Himself
Mike will share how his role at Amazon Prime transitioned into his present career as a novelist / author as well as briefly discuss the two books he has released – “The Handler” in June 2022 and “Dead Drop” in May 2023.
About the Speaker
M.P. Woodward (Mike) is the author of a series of spy tech thrillers from Penguin Random House. The first, “The Handler” was released in June ’22. The second, “Dead Drop”, was recently released in May ’23.
Prior to his writing career, Mike was an executive with Amazon. There, he founded, staffed, and built a global wholesale Prime / Prime Video content delivery and membership acquisition platform. Starting from scratch with nothing more than a business plan and a single telecom deal, over the next 4 years the platform grew to encompass 100+ telecom/media partners operating in 40 countries, acquiring tens of millions of customers. Deals spanned negotiations for distribution/licensing for video, consumer gaming, music, and or shopping. He built and led the team of 100+ BD and marketing professionals spread across 5 international regions.
Mike is also a veteran of US intelligence operations. As a naval intelligence officer with the US Pacific Command, he scripted scenario moves and countermoves for US war game exercises in the Middle East. In multiple deployments to the Persian Gulf and Far East, he worked alongside US Special Forces, CIA, and NSA.
Follow M.P. Woodward (Mike) on FB @MP_Woodward, IG @mp.woodward and on mpwoodward.com. Look for The Handler and Dead Drop wherever you buy books (hardback, e-book, and audiobook).

Why do we create? Sewing yesterday and today!
2023-09-22 07:15 - 08:30
Carmen LaPonte – Owner and CEO
Quality Sewing and Vacuum
Since 1985 Quality Sewing and Vacuum has been focused on customer service and bringing people joy through sewing. This morning Carmen LaPonte, owner and CEO, will share her family business story and their plans for the future.
About the Speaker
Carmen LaPonte is the CEO of Quality Sewing & Vacuum and a 2nd generation owner. She has been in the sewing business since 2002 and has worn many hats from salesperson and educator to creative director and operations manager. She is passionate about her business and loves to introduce people to the latest sewing, quilting and embroidery innovations.

The Cost of Commitment: Dunn Lumber's Legacy of Trust
2023-09-29 07:15 - 08:30
Whittaker Dunn – Vice President Operations
Dunn Lumber
Whittaker will be talking about the history of his family’s business, How Dunn Lumber changed to avoid being wiped out by the box stores, and why the Dunn Family wants to avoid being landlords.
About the Speaker
Whittaker Dunn is a 5th generation member of the Dunn Family. He started working at Dunn Lumber at the age of 15 during summers and school breaks. He received a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Hillsdale College. After getting married he returned to Seattle in 2016 to begin working full time for his family’s business.
Whittaker is currently the VP of Operations and a Committee Member on the Dunn Lumber Family Council. In his work he oversees purchasing, deliveries, facilities, and maintaining Dunn Lumber’s culture. He lives in the Green Lake area with his wife and two sons, his sister, her husband, and their four children.

"Bellevue Fire Department"
2023-10-06 07:15 - 08:30
Jerome “Jay” Hagen – Fire Chief
City of Bellevue Fire Department
Bellevue is a growing and changing city. A city that was in the past mainly residential is now significantly changed by the number of multi-family units and the tremendous growth of Bellevue’s downtown core. Bellevue Fire seeks to serve the public with innovation responding to emerging needs with empathy and compassion. Chief Hagen will discuss Bellevue Fire’s present and future plans to address these changes.
About the Speaker
A member of the fire service since 1986, Chief Hagen joined the Bellevue Fire Department in May of 2018 after an extensive nationwide search. He has assisted Bellevue Fire navigate the challenges of Covid and the rapid growth and development of the city as expressed in the recent addition of Engine 110 for the downtown core.
Chief Hagen began his career as a firefighter in Missoula, Montana. Shortly thereafter he joined the ranks of the Seattle Fire Department where he rose through the ranks to Assistant Chief of their Operations Division responsible for supervising approximately 1,000 firefighters. During his thirty-year career as a first-responder he has been assigned to various divisions and has extensive experience with Operations, Fire Prevention, Training, and Administration.
Chief Hagen is a 2002 graduate of the University of Montana where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communications and Business Management. In March of 2006 he earned a Master of Arts degree in Homeland Security and Defense from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. In addition, in 2007 he spent a year in Washington, D.C. representing the Center for Homeland Defense and Security as a Senior Research Fellow on behalf of state and local first responders. Jay supported the federal grants process at FEMA’s Office of Grants and Training. He has also previously served as Chair of the Interagency Board.
Chief Hagen is civic minded and has been actively involved with Code4NW First Responders Suicide Prevention Hotline, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Firefighter Stair climb, the Muscular Dystrophy Association “Fill the Boot” Campaign, and the Medic One Foundation.
Jay and his wife Theresa live in Newcastle. They enjoy entertaining, travel, and spending time with their two adult daughters.

Meeting is cancelled due to District Conference
2023-10-13 07:15 - 08:30
Kaj Pedersen – 2023-24 District Governor
District 5030, Rotary International
DG Pedersen will lead the District Conference in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada this weekend.
About the Speaker
Every BBRC member is encouraged to attend the District Conference.

"Perspective of the 2023 Seattle Mariners and Future Possibilities"
2023-10-20 07:15 - 08:30
Bill Krueger – Senior Broadcast Analyst
Root SportsThe Seattle Mariner 2023 season ended October 1st with the Mariners one game out of the playoffs, after winning 90 games. How did this season go, who were the surprises and what can we expect in 2024? What will it take to get the Mariners over the hump after being so close but no cigar? This morning Bill Krueger, the retired crafty left-hander, will give you his ideas and answer your questions. Spring training is only a little over 4 months away!
Bill will also briefly introduce his involvement with NGO, Rise Above.
About the Speaker
Bill Kreuger is senior broadcast analyst for Root Sports in conjunction with the Seattle Mariners.
After retiring as a player, Bill became a sportscaster for Seattle radio stations KJR and Kiro, as well as a sports commentator for FOX Sports Northwest. He is a former Major League baseball pitcher who played from 1983 to 1995 for eight teams, including the Seattle Mariners.
Thank you to Brian Evison for scheduling this program.

“A View from the Bench”
2023-10-27 07:15 - 08:30
Judge Sean P. O’Donnell – Chief, Unified Family Court
King County Superior Court, SeattleIn Judge O’Donnell’s talk, he plans to address the following topics.
1. The judiciary’s make-up in Washington – how judges get to be judges – what elections look like.2. A bit about working on the Green River Killer case – I admit, I do have stories…3. The state of the judiciary now, post COVID and how we’re trying to stay connected/relevant to the population we serve.4. Crime/drugs – what in the world is going on?5. Q&A
Thanks to Dr. Doug Cameron for scheduling this speaker.
About the Speaker
Sean P. O’Donnell is a Superior Court Judge for King County, Washington. Judge O’Donnell is the former President of the Superior Court Judges’ Association, a statewide organization representing 192 trial court judicial officers across Washington. His current assignment is chief judge for King County’s Unified Family Court.Judge O’Donnell served as a senior deputy prosecutor for 12 years and handled the state’s first human trafficking case and first commercial sexual abuse of a minor case. While a prosecutor, Judge O’Donnell was a member of the Green River Task Force, which oversaw the investigation and prosecution of serial murderer Gary L. Ridgway (the ‘Green River Killer’). He has trained lawyers and police nationally and internationally on how to prosecute human trafficking cases. Since joining the bench in 2013, Judge O’Donnell has been on the court’s family law, civil and criminal dockets, including two years as the Court’s Chief Criminal Judge. He has presided over numerous ‘all remote’ jury trials and helped lead efforts to implement the Court’s virtual jury selection and virtual trial procedures and training during the pandemic.Judge O’Donnell helped draft rules currently pending before Washington’s Supreme Court that would authorize trial courts to continue remote trials and jury selection after pandemic emergency orders expire. In 2022, he helped establish King County’s Protection Order Court pilot project, which is in its first year of operation. He is keenly interested in A.I. and the possibilities and challenges it presents to the legal profession. He has led three statewide branch task forces in Washington: to improve courthouse security, to reform Washington’s pre-trial release practices, and to increase state funding for court interpreters. He is also the legislative co-chair for the Superior Court Judges’ Association.Judge O’Donnell is the 2004 co-recipient of the “Outstanding Lawyer of the Year” from the King County Bar Association and the 2018 recipient of “Judge of the Year” from the American Board of Trial Advocates (Puget Sound Chapter). He is a Trustee for the Lakeside School in Seattle and is a member of the Rainier Scholars Resource Council. He is former chair of the Schools Commission for St. Joseph School.Judge O’Donnell graduated from Georgetown University and Seattle University School of Law. He lives with his wife and their two teen-aged children in Seattle.

"Goldfinch Bros., Inc., a glass and glazing family business since 1892"
2023-11-03 07:15 - 08:30
Sean Goldfinch – Residential & Retail Sales Manager
Goldfinch Bros., Inc.
A look at the history of Goldfinch Bros., Inc. as a glass and glazing subcontractor and how this six-generation family business was built. The presentation will touch on the core principles that lead to the company’s legacy and how they continue to build for the future.
About the Speaker
Sean Goldfinch is the Residential Sales Manager at Goldfinch Bros., Inc. and is a part of the sixth generation to work at their business. Sean began working at the company at 16 years old prior to attending Pepperdine University. He has a passion for strategic partnerships, supply chain operations, and quality window design. When he is not spending his time at Goldfinch, he enjoys spending his time with his family, playing a round of golf, and enjoying the sunrise while fishing. Thank you to Tyler Beutel for scheduling Sean.

"A Morning with the Husky Marching Band"
2023-11-10 07:15 - 08:30
Corey Jahlas – Associate Director of Athletic Bands
University of Washington This morning BBRC will be joined by 20 members of the UW Husky Marching Band to entertain us, led by Corey Jahlas. these young men and women will display their musical talent to inspire us as well as make us thankful that we live in a free country for Veterans Day weekend. The remainder of the band will be commemorating Veteran’s Day on the UW campus.
Are you aware that the only scholarship given by the Husky Marching Band is to their baton twirler? These young men and women commit a tremendous amount of time to follow their passion and appear at both UW events and Husky sporting events. A few historical tidbits about the band are below:
The Husky Marching Band enters 2023 in its 94th season. Since 1929, the world-famous Husky Band has been entertaining audiences from the shores of Lake Washington to Australia, China, Ireland, Japan, and even Norway. Loyal UW Alumni and other band followers love to sing along to the University of Washington fight song “Bow Down to Washington,” or “Tequila!” which is known as the Husky Band’s signature song.
Bill Bissell was the third Band Director, 1970 to 1994. One of the great showmen among college band directors, Husky crowds watched Bissell’s bands recreate the Mt. St. Helens eruption, stage horse races, and wear outrageous costumes. In addition to his duties with the Husky Band, Bissell was also placed in charge of commencement and served as an administrator for the Alumni Association during his time at the University of Washington.
Since its inception in 1929, the Husky Band has gone through many changes, but still strives for a high degree of musicality, precision marching, and the pinnacle of Husky spirit and pride. The current director, Dr. J. Bradley McDavid, is the Husky Band’s fourth Head Director. He follows in a long history of true and dedicated Huskies to accept the reins.
The Husky Band appeared in the 1996 Disney film “The Sixth Man.” Other special performances include the 1995 and 2002 Wheel of Fortune Collegiate Tournament of Champions and the Key Arena Opening Night, which included a performance with the Seattle Symphony. The Husky Band has also made appearances on the USS Kittyhawk (1995), USS Constellation (1996 and 1999) and the USS Nimitz (2001).
About the Speaker
Corey Jahlas is currently the Associate Director of Athletic Bands at the University of Washington, where he is also finishing his doctorate in Wind Conducting. A native of Michigan, Corey previously attended Central Michigan University for his Bachelors of Music Education and his Master of Music degrees and taught middle school band for several years. Corey is an in-demand music educator, marching band drill writer, arranger, conductor, and adjudicator. He has designed halftime shows for both high school and college bands across the country, including Bowling Green State University, Central Michigan University, Gettysburg College, University of New Hampshire, University of Michigan, and University of Washington. Corey spends his summers teaching high school Drum Majors in both Washington and Michigan. Corey currently resides in Seattle, WA where he lives with his cat, Copland.

"A Bellevue Woman's Entrepreneurial Journey"
2023-11-17 07:15 - 08:30
Ally Svenson – Co-founder and Protector of the Purpose
MOD (Made On Demand) PizzaAlly will take us down memory lane and share the start of her entrepreneurial journey, involving her high school sweetheart Scott, London and coffee. She will also bring us up to date on her more recent entrepreneurial activities, still with Scott, but now focused on pizza.
Please note that Mod Pizza has claimed the title as the fastest growing restaurant chain in the US (July 2023)!
About the Speaker
Ally Svenson and her husband Scott co-founded MOD Pizza, opening the first location in downtown Seattle in 2008 and pioneering the fast casual pizza category. As Protector of the Purpose, Ally helps guide and protect MOD’s people-first culture and its mission to make positive impacts in the communities MOD serves. Today, with more than 500 locations across 28 states and Canada, Ally and Scott are pursuing an aggressive national and international expansion of the brand, excited by the notion of “Spreading MODness” into new communities.
Prior to MOD, Ally and Scott co-founded Seattle Coffee (SCC) in 1994 in London, the first gourmet coffee retailer and wholesaler in the UK. They grew the business to 75 retail locations in under three years, eventually selling SCC to Starbucks in 1998. The Svensons were also instrumental in the launch of Carluccio’s Ltd (UK), a thriving London based operator of Italian deli/cafes, along with various additional ventures in the US and UK.
Ally has been an active volunteer within the Bellevue and Seattle community for over 20 years, and currently serves as board co-chair of Evergreens, a Seattle based salad and bowl concept. A graduate of Wellesley College, Ally has been recognized as an EY Entrepreneur of the Year, named a Women of Influence by the Puget Sound Business Journal and a Women to Watch by 425 Magazine. Above all, Ally’s greatest and most sacred role is that of mother to her four amazing boys and as wife to Scott.
Thank you, Doug Cameron, for scheduling this speaker.
