January 14, 2008 Spokesman

Introduction of Exchange Student :  Pascal Webber.  Pascal shared his wonderful week with the Club.  His highlight was watching the Packer/Seahawk Game, even though the Seahawks lost.  He is also missing Switzerland and all the snow this time of year.  

Announcements: 

The Woodmark would like to remind everyone that they can not pack food to take home.

Rachel also reminded all Rotarians that it is our own responsibility to update Club Runner with any changes in our personal information.  (i.e. New phone, new address, etc.)

Bob Webb updated the Club on the supplement to the Eastside Reporter that was discussed at our last meeting.  The decision was that two weeks was just too short a period to have articles and sponsors ready.  The Club decided to postpone a Rotary supplement until mid-May.  Contact Bob with any articles for the supplement and if you wish to be a sponsor or advertiser.

Jim Feek said to watch your emails for information and updates on the Dance Club.

Katherine Kehrli informed the Club of a generous donation from the employees of Lee Johnson Chevrolet in honor of Brett Johnson for our Miracle League fund.

Induction Into Paul Harris Fellowship:

Jim Feek announced the induction of Al Hoviland into the Paul Harris Society.  Al received a mediallian and pin for his contributions.  Congratulations Al!

Induction of New Member to the Club :  Our newest member, David Friedman, was inducted by Gary Bruner.  His classification will be "Financial Planner".  His sponsor is G.G. Getz and his mentor is Don Dicks.  Welcome David!

Introduction of our Speaker:  by Patti Smith

Our Speaker :  Douglas Howe, President of Touchstone Corporation

Douglas is the founder of Touchstone Corporation and involved in every aspect of the company's business.  With more than 30 years of experience in commercial real estate development, he is directly responsible for new business development.  Touchstone's primary activity is the development of commercial office, technology and biotechnology R&D buildings.  Recent projects also include retail, hotel and mixed use urban infill.  Douglas is a graduate of the University of Washington with a B.A. in Economics and Political Science and an MBA in Finance and Marketing.

Topic:  The Kirkland Parkplace Project

Douglas discussed and illustrated the 12 acres of commercial real estate that is under development for the Parkplace Project.  This space with be a "mixed use" development with retail, hotel, and office space.  The project plans to bring about 4,000 new jobs to downtown Kirkland.  The project is in the early stages of the process.  They are addressing environmental impact, traffic patterns, parking, height limits and open green spaces.   The plans call for a 175 room hotel, 7 new restaurants, a Sports Club, new high tech cinema, retail and boutique shops and several open green spaces.  A place for people to meet.  There have been many public meetings on the project and there will be another open forum on February 21^st at 6:00 p.m. at the KirklandPerformanceCenter.  For additional details, please see their website:  www.envisionkirklandplace.com   

Further Announcements :  The ski trip is planned for January 26, 2008.  If you wish to ride the bus, please contact Rich Bergdahl.

Rachel reminded all Rotarians that would like pictures from the Christmas Party that were taken by Bob Gassen to contact Bob no later than Feb. 9^th.  Remember that 50% of proceeds from the sales will go to the Club.

The Lucky Ticket :  Pascel Webber drew the lucky number and after two chances at the lucky duck, got the $15.00.

President Rachel adjourned the meeting at 7:40 p.m. 

Scribe for the evening:  Pat Swenson