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A visit from Rep. Suzan DelBene to Seattle's Galvanize
Congresswoman DelBene and her fellow panelists after the roundtable discussion at Galvanize Seattle's office.
1 August 2017
Seattle, WA, USA
What better place to host a media event between startup companies and one of the Puget Sound region's top legislators than a hub for entrepreneurial growth and activity named "Galvanize?" To celebrate national startup day, U.S. Rep. Suzan DelBene met with a select group of Seattle-based entrepreneurs and startup founders at Galvanize Seattle's offices. After a brief tour of the facilities with Galvanize’s Stephanie Donner, Tracy Aiken, and Joanna Shea, Congresswoman DelBene and the business community in attendance conducted a roundtable discussion related to how innovation and opportunity created by small businesses help drives the economy of the present and future.
Following a round of intros, Rep. DelBene posed these questions to the group: what can we [legislators] do to continue to foster entrepreneurialism? What are the barriers and challenges that you face? What would you like to see that you think would help organizations like yours to thrive? The panelists took turns pondering these questions. Package Guard founder & CEO Mike Grabham was the first to respond. He explained that his company’s access to (financial) capital is typically the first hurdle they must clear to be successful, and then suggested that it is also critical for their success that they are permitted access to a network of talent across the globe. Grabham also lamented his company’s laborious experience when attempting to secure government work. Sternshus’ Ruth Stern agreed with Grabham’s frustration.
Congresswoman DelBene briefly interjected to mention that a piloting process must be initiated in order to defend against those in government fearful from adopting new, unproven technologies. She queried, “How do we build things in small scale so that they are proven before their implementation? And how do we get those types of pilots happening so people have good use-cases they can build upon?”
To the overall concern of the process of acquiring government work, Stern offered that enabling small businesses via grants and easing the preliminary process would, in essence, allow for companies like hers to succeed and solve the needs of markets such as health care and financial advisory. These are two areas where it is believed that the government is receding and large companies have little interest in providing solutions.
Some inspired talk took place among the panelists, who ranged from established business-people like Wil Merrit of FlyBuy Technology and a founder of multiple startups to Ayssa Evans, Full Stack web developer, and, as of last Friday, a graduate of a six-month program at Galvanize, to Milkana Brace Founder & CEO of Upswirl who contributed thoughts about the division in Seattle between large companies and startups and commented on the disproportionate risk taken by those who founded the large companies and those who now benefit as employees of said large companies.
The individuals at the table each had an opportunity to chime in to offer their takes on issues such as family leave, diversity in the technology industry, and workplace culture, among others. Rep. DelBene concluded the discussion by encouraging the panelists to continue to provide examples of their work to help educate those who make policy.
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Startup Day Across America connects elected officials with the startups in the communities they represent so that they can learn about the challenges new companies face and meet the business leaders building the future. This bipartisan, bicameral effort also raises awareness and help generate support for startup communities across the country. For more info, click here: startupdayacrossamerica.com
[From their website, Galvanize.com] Galvanize believes in making education and growth accessible to anyone – especially underrepresented groups in the tech industry. Whether you’re a founder, student, or just someone who wants to level up their career, [Galvanize] wants to be a welcoming, inclusive place where you can take the next step in your journey.
For more info on Congresswoman Suzan DelBene, WA-1, please visit the following website: www.delbene.house.gov
Seattle, WA, USA
What better place to host a media event between startup companies and one of the Puget Sound region's top legislators than a hub for entrepreneurial growth and activity named "Galvanize?" To celebrate national startup day, U.S. Rep. Suzan DelBene met with a select group of Seattle-based entrepreneurs and startup founders at Galvanize Seattle's offices. After a brief tour of the facilities with Galvanize’s Stephanie Donner, Tracy Aiken, and Joanna Shea, Congresswoman DelBene and the business community in attendance conducted a roundtable discussion related to how innovation and opportunity created by small businesses help drives the economy of the present and future.
Following a round of intros, Rep. DelBene posed these questions to the group: what can we [legislators] do to continue to foster entrepreneurialism? What are the barriers and challenges that you face? What would you like to see that you think would help organizations like yours to thrive? The panelists took turns pondering these questions. Package Guard founder & CEO Mike Grabham was the first to respond. He explained that his company’s access to (financial) capital is typically the first hurdle they must clear to be successful, and then suggested that it is also critical for their success that they are permitted access to a network of talent across the globe. Grabham also lamented his company’s laborious experience when attempting to secure government work. Sternshus’ Ruth Stern agreed with Grabham’s frustration.
Congresswoman DelBene briefly interjected to mention that a piloting process must be initiated in order to defend against those in government fearful from adopting new, unproven technologies. She queried, “How do we build things in small scale so that they are proven before their implementation? And how do we get those types of pilots happening so people have good use-cases they can build upon?”
To the overall concern of the process of acquiring government work, Stern offered that enabling small businesses via grants and easing the preliminary process would, in essence, allow for companies like hers to succeed and solve the needs of markets such as health care and financial advisory. These are two areas where it is believed that the government is receding and large companies have little interest in providing solutions.
Some inspired talk took place among the panelists, who ranged from established business-people like Wil Merrit of FlyBuy Technology and a founder of multiple startups to Ayssa Evans, Full Stack web developer, and, as of last Friday, a graduate of a six-month program at Galvanize, to Milkana Brace Founder & CEO of Upswirl who contributed thoughts about the division in Seattle between large companies and startups and commented on the disproportionate risk taken by those who founded the large companies and those who now benefit as employees of said large companies.
The individuals at the table each had an opportunity to chime in to offer their takes on issues such as family leave, diversity in the technology industry, and workplace culture, among others. Rep. DelBene concluded the discussion by encouraging the panelists to continue to provide examples of their work to help educate those who make policy.
************************************
Startup Day Across America connects elected officials with the startups in the communities they represent so that they can learn about the challenges new companies face and meet the business leaders building the future. This bipartisan, bicameral effort also raises awareness and help generate support for startup communities across the country. For more info, click here: startupdayacrossamerica.com
[From their website, Galvanize.com] Galvanize believes in making education and growth accessible to anyone – especially underrepresented groups in the tech industry. Whether you’re a founder, student, or just someone who wants to level up their career, [Galvanize] wants to be a welcoming, inclusive place where you can take the next step in your journey.
For more info on Congresswoman Suzan DelBene, WA-1, please visit the following website: www.delbene.house.gov
Diversity & Inclusion in Seattle's Tech Industry
Panelists Aimee Chou and Melissa "echo" Greenlee signing the ASL sign for the English word "inclusion."
14 June 2017
Seattle, WA, USA
As a burgeoning force in Seattle's economy, the technology industry has been blazing new trails when it comes to shaping the traditional workplace. Tech Inclusion, a multi-day program of conference, career fair, and startup showcase came to town and sought to bring together local tech industry professionals from all avenues, arenas, and backgrounds. Throughout their participation in the conference, these professionals networked, aimed to share and collect stories, presented data analytics, and were motivated and determined to groove on potential solutions to arguably their most challenging query yet: how can they champion the ideals of workplace diversity and inclusion?
This two-day event was organized by conference founders Wayne Sutton and Melinda Briana Epler of the B Corp, Change Catalyst and hosted by the startup incubator "slash" co-working space, Galvanize in Seattle's Pioneer Square District.
Click through the images below to enjoy a recap of the conference as viewed
through the lens of this photographer.
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ChangeCatalyst empowers diverse, inclusive and sustainable tech innovation – through education, mentorship and funding.
[From their website, ChangeCatalyst.co] [Change Catalyst's] Tech Inclusion programs explore and develop innovative solutions to tech diversity and inclusion. [They] partner with the tech community to solve diversity and inclusion together through conferences, career fairs, strategic consulting and training. [Change Catalyst's] work spans the full tech ecosystem, including: Education, Workplace, Entrepreneurship and Policy.
[From their website, Galvanize.com] Galvanize believes in making education and growth accessible to anyone – especially underrepresented groups in the tech industry. Whether you’re a founder, student, or just someone who wants to level up their career, [Galvanize] wants to be a welcoming, inclusive place where you can take the next step in your journey.
For more info on Tech Inclusion Seattle, please visit the following website: seattle17.techinclusion.co.
Seattle, WA, USA
As a burgeoning force in Seattle's economy, the technology industry has been blazing new trails when it comes to shaping the traditional workplace. Tech Inclusion, a multi-day program of conference, career fair, and startup showcase came to town and sought to bring together local tech industry professionals from all avenues, arenas, and backgrounds. Throughout their participation in the conference, these professionals networked, aimed to share and collect stories, presented data analytics, and were motivated and determined to groove on potential solutions to arguably their most challenging query yet: how can they champion the ideals of workplace diversity and inclusion?
This two-day event was organized by conference founders Wayne Sutton and Melinda Briana Epler of the B Corp, Change Catalyst and hosted by the startup incubator "slash" co-working space, Galvanize in Seattle's Pioneer Square District.
Click through the images below to enjoy a recap of the conference as viewed
through the lens of this photographer.
***************
ChangeCatalyst empowers diverse, inclusive and sustainable tech innovation – through education, mentorship and funding.
[From their website, ChangeCatalyst.co] [Change Catalyst's] Tech Inclusion programs explore and develop innovative solutions to tech diversity and inclusion. [They] partner with the tech community to solve diversity and inclusion together through conferences, career fairs, strategic consulting and training. [Change Catalyst's] work spans the full tech ecosystem, including: Education, Workplace, Entrepreneurship and Policy.
[From their website, Galvanize.com] Galvanize believes in making education and growth accessible to anyone – especially underrepresented groups in the tech industry. Whether you’re a founder, student, or just someone who wants to level up their career, [Galvanize] wants to be a welcoming, inclusive place where you can take the next step in your journey.
For more info on Tech Inclusion Seattle, please visit the following website: seattle17.techinclusion.co.
Food Deserts
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Simple snaps from a quiet evening on the farm.
Georgetown Urban Farm & Forest, Seattle, WA, USA. 4 June 2017. [view the slideshow for stills & action snaps of recent goings on at the farm] |
Undoubtedly you have heard the term. But what is it? What makes an area a food desert? As defined in the Georgetown Urban Farm and Forest (GUFF) info sheet, "food deserts are geographic areas where access to affordable, healthy food options (fresh fruits and veggies) is limited or nonexistent because grocery stores are too far away or the stores that are accessible do not provide culturally relevant foods or are too small to provide many options."
In Seattle's Georgetown neighborhood, health stressors such as diabetes, obesity, heart health, and asthma are exacerbated by the lack of healthy options. GUFF's objective is to "grow healthy food for the Georgetown community, to help alleviate or at least lessen the "Food Desert" problem in [the] neighborhood by growing fresh organic vegetables for [the] community." |
HealthPoint CHC Heroes for Health 5k Fun Walk/Run
Various snaps from the event. Photo credits to HealthPoint's staff and Abbott's Carol Cone for some add'l photos.
3 June 2017
Bothell, WA
Abbott Construction’s Abbott’s Rabbitts took part in Saturday’s Heroes for Heatlh 5k fun walk/run. A contingent of 31 Abbott employees, friends, family, and pets walked, jogged, strolled, hopped, and ran along the 5k course on the Sammamish River trail on this first Saturday in June. Some were outfit in sweatbands and spandex. Others, in full-on superhero regalia. The Abbott participants in attendance this day expressed their overwhelming commitment to “number six” of their “five fundamentals”: overall wellness. Additionally, as a corporate sponsor, Abbott maintained its philanthropic dedication to supporting just causes throughout Western Washington.
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This event, hosted by HealthPoint, is an annual gathering that includes activities for kids and families. HealthPoint is a nonprofit network of health centers who sponsor Heroes for Health to celebrate communities and give families a way to get active together in the name of health. Participation in the event helps provide access to medical and dental care for those who might otherwise not receive it. A portion of the proceeds from the event supports the Northshore Schools Foundation as they work to improve health and enrichment of students in the Northshore school district. For more info, visit healthpointchc.org
Abbott Construction® is a progressive West Coast commercial construction company known for its superior project management and field supervision, best-in-class standards, and excellent craftsmanship. Abbott’s expertise runs deep in pre-construction, project planning, and the timely and professional execution of the construction process in a variety of market sectors including but not limited to retail, healthcare, non-profit, commercial office, mixed-use developments, exterior remediation, and seismic improvements. For more info, please visit abbottconstruction.com
Bothell, WA
Abbott Construction’s Abbott’s Rabbitts took part in Saturday’s Heroes for Heatlh 5k fun walk/run. A contingent of 31 Abbott employees, friends, family, and pets walked, jogged, strolled, hopped, and ran along the 5k course on the Sammamish River trail on this first Saturday in June. Some were outfit in sweatbands and spandex. Others, in full-on superhero regalia. The Abbott participants in attendance this day expressed their overwhelming commitment to “number six” of their “five fundamentals”: overall wellness. Additionally, as a corporate sponsor, Abbott maintained its philanthropic dedication to supporting just causes throughout Western Washington.
********
This event, hosted by HealthPoint, is an annual gathering that includes activities for kids and families. HealthPoint is a nonprofit network of health centers who sponsor Heroes for Health to celebrate communities and give families a way to get active together in the name of health. Participation in the event helps provide access to medical and dental care for those who might otherwise not receive it. A portion of the proceeds from the event supports the Northshore Schools Foundation as they work to improve health and enrichment of students in the Northshore school district. For more info, visit healthpointchc.org
Abbott Construction® is a progressive West Coast commercial construction company known for its superior project management and field supervision, best-in-class standards, and excellent craftsmanship. Abbott’s expertise runs deep in pre-construction, project planning, and the timely and professional execution of the construction process in a variety of market sectors including but not limited to retail, healthcare, non-profit, commercial office, mixed-use developments, exterior remediation, and seismic improvements. For more info, please visit abbottconstruction.com
F-U Drumpf and administration and anti-science people and politicians
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The DVGBC's EPs response to the GreenBuild 2011 What's Next? Campaign
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Delaware Valley Green Building Council's Emerging Professionals Committee Sustainable Superheroes (or DVGBCEPCSS for short) discuss "What's Next?" in the Delaware Valley. Submitted to the U.S. Green Building Council prior to GreenBuild 2011.
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Vote or Die!
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Voted for a Dem at the top of the ticket for the first time, in this election. Also, this is the first time voting for a major party candidate at the top since making the sophomoric choice of voting for 'Dubya' as a Drexel sophomore in '04. Hopefully, this won't subject me to endless requests to donate and/or scorn from one particular family member. Love you, Dad! Anyway, I'm with her? /: [hastags] politicking thirdpartyismyjam greenparty jillsteinyoureajoke votingjawns
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Stop Big Pharma...[sign the petition here...]
Tens of thousands of Americans are demanding a head of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with the guts to stand up to the pharmaceutical companies. But we are running out of time to stop the nomination of Dr. Robert Califf, “the ultimate industry insider.” Oppose the nomination of Dr. Robert Califf as head of the Food and Drug Administration. At a time of rising prescription drug prices and safety risks we need a champion for American families, not an insider so closely tied to the pharmaceutical industry. [sign the petition here...] |