.

Month: September 2011

Legion of Tech got screwed. Let’s help unscrew them.

[Full disclosure: Just like a bunch of other people in Portland, I’ve supported the Legion of Tech and their efforts as a participant, a volunteer, a regular sponsor, and an advisor.]

This is a difficult post to write. Well, that’s phrasing it nicely. To be honest, this is a shitty post to have to write. But the Legion of Tech was such a strong presence and core to our tech community that it deserves a post and discussion. Especially in hopes that other well-meaning organizations not repeat similar mistakes. Read More

Skip Newberry, economic advisor to Portland’s Mayor, named new president of the Software Association of Oregon (SAO)

[Full disclosure: I am on the board of the SAO.] When it comes to professional organizations that touch the Portland startup scene, one of the more contentious entities has been the Software Association of Oregon (SAO). The organization has gone through a number of leaders in the past few years. This summer, the organization found itself with an open president seat, once again. And that led to a number of discussions about the SAO and its leadership, point and counterpoint.

Now, Skip Newberry—who currently serves as economic development policy advisor to Portland Mayor Sam Adams—will be taking on the role of president of the SAO. Read More

Meet the Startup: Unwrapping the story behind Wantist

I’m always a fan of technology that solves real problems. And what’s one problem that many of us have in common? Finding the perfect gift.

That’s why Portland’s Wantist is such an interesting and compelling service. It’s a simple and efficient way of finding awesome gifts for the amazing people in your life—and gifts they’re likely to love. Just by providing two adjectives, ala MadLibs. Read More