Dear SIOR Members and Friends,
In February, I had the great pleasure of attending the hugely successful Northwest Regional Conference in Sun Valley, Idaho. Over 50 attendees enjoyed the networking- and education-filled event, as well as the beauty of skiing in historic Sun Valley! The welcome reception was followed by dinner and a featured presentation from local historian, Wendolyn Holland, author of Sun Valley: An Extraordinary History.
During her presentation, Holland shared the history of the Valley, the drive that made Sun Valley what it is, and—lest we forget—the world’s first chairlift! The next morning, Neil Nelson, owner of ESI Construction—the largest privately held construction firm in Idaho—discussed construction in the Northwest region, highlighting the continued boom and relocation of coastal firms to interior markets. Following an afternoon of skiing, making new friends, and deepening relationships with existing colleagues, the conference was capped off by a presentation from our own Geoffrey Kasselman, SIOR.
As keynote speaker, Kasselman presented "The Age of Mobility - Era of Opportunity,” which focused on the disruption coming from technological advances (artificial intelligence, self-driving cars, 5G, etc). He pointed out opportunities for industrial and office brokers, owners, and investors throughout the presentation. The event ended with a fabulous concert by an AC/DC cover band that kept us all on our feet after the long day!
The SIOR Foundation is thrilled to have played a role in helping the Northwest Chapters of SIOR put on such an amazing event. The education and networking opportunities that were provided are vital to the health and future vitality of the commercial real estate industry. These opportunities would not be possible if not for the generosity of so many SIOR members, so thank you to all who have donated. Every time you donate to the Foundation, pick up the phone during our annual Phonathon, or get a ticket for our giveaways, you make it possible for the Foundation to fulfill its mission. Speaking of giveaways, the SIOR Foundation will again hold a “Great Escape Giveaway” during the 2019 SIOR Spring World Conference in Washington D.C. This year, we plan to have three (3) $5,000 cash prizes, which will be good for vacations to anywhere you might want to go. Check your e-mail for more information and the chance to get advance tickets!
The SIOR Foundation is currently seeking volunteers to serve on its board of trustees. If you are in search of a truly gratifying and rewarding experience, I urge you to seriously consider joining. The Foundation is an amazing organization, with members dedicated to educating, enhancing, and expanding the commercial real estate industry. If you would like more information or would like to become more involved, please contact me.
I am looking forward to seeing many of you in Washington, DC!
Sincerely,
Aaron (A-A-Ron) Barnard, SIOR
952.465.3372
aaron.barnard@cushwake.com