A Message from the General Manager 

 

The past few weeks the Lynnwood Convention Center was host to several graduation events. I always love this time of year, the gratification of completion and the optimism of new beginnings permeates the air.

 

My favorite of all the graduation activities would have to be the commencement speeches. I love listening to the person up on the stage, sharing with eager young people what they have learned in their career, life, and crazy adventures. I am often reminded that most of what I know, I have learned from those around me. So today, Class of 2014, I share with you a few words of wisdom from my staff:

 

"Ladies, don't match your eye shadow to your outfit, unless it's Halloween." Lindsey Thompson, Marketing Manager

 

"Passion and balance in everything are the best secrets to life." Arianna Fry, Catering Coordinator

 

"Engage in 'real life' and remember 'real life' doesn't happen on facebook." Pam Lewis, Sous Chef

 

"Do it now. Whatever 'it' is, do it now. Don't wait to be happy. Don't wait to be fulfilled, don't wait to be loved. Don't wait to be treated as an equal. Do. It. Now." Jimmie Galaites, Event Manager 

 

"Always be yourself."  

Bruce Collier, Director of Events and Food & Beverage

 

"Don't be scared to fail. Learn from it and move on."  

Cassandra Colony, Sales Manager

 

While it was hard to narrow down to only one piece, here is mine:

"There will be people you encounter in life that will be smarter, prettier, or quicker than you. The one thing you always have is your work ethic, only you can let someone outwork you." 

 

Congratulations Class of 2014! May the best be ahead of you.

 

Angie M. Mykel

General Manager

Mix herbs and spices together and divide the mix in half. In a stainless steel bowl, thoroughly mix half of the olive oil and half of the herbs and spices.

Quarter the fingerling potatoes lengthwise, place them in the stainless steel bowl and toss together until all of the potatoes are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper. Lay the potatoes out on a cookie sheet and roast in a 325 degree oven until the potatoes are tender  about 15 -20 minutes. Let cool.

 Sweat onions, garlic, and peppers in a heavy bottomed pan over medium heat with the remainder of the olive oil and seasonings. After about 5 minutes, add the corn. Continue cooking until the corn is tender. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. Let cool. 

Toss the potatoes vegetables, lime juice and cilantro together and check seasoning.

The Team Gro Gladiator Classic, a bodybuilding, figure, fitness, bikini and physique competition, will be Saturday, June 21st at the Lynnwood Convention Center. The event is open to the public.

Prejuding will be at 10:00am ($15 tickets) and the evening show will start at 5:30pm ($30 tickets). Tickets can be purchased here.

The master of ceremonies for the event is Dave "Dr. Buff" Patterson. Featured guests will include IFBB Pros Marga Overby, Mickal Mensik, Joe Derousie and 2013 Champion, Mike Sodano.

For more information on the show or to sign up as a competitor, vendor or volunteer, visit the Team Gro website.

Many people view their graduation as one of the most important days in their life.  Here are some ideas to make the sure the day is one to remember for your friends and family as well.

 

- Identify a theme that is uniquely tuned into the graduate. Like any good party, this will help define the invitations, d�cor and food.

 

-Find the location. Homes work great for something more intimate, but club houses, hotel suites or even your local Lynnwood Convention Center room ensures enough space for all.

 

-Create a keepsake for your graduate that everyone can help out with. One of our favorites for a graduate that loves games: buy a Jenga set and each person can write a personal note on a piece. 

 

-Designate a photographer. This way you get the photos but do not have to worry about the camera. These days, everyone is ready to snap shots!

 

Congratulations to all the graduates!

Your Friendly Event Team,

Danielle, Jimmie and Megan