Happy Birthday Blog!

This week, one year ago, the blog was created. The idea for the blog was in the works for, well, a few days. It managed to avoid red tape and with the support of the decision makers, was launched on Feb. 29th, 2008. I've enjoyed the wide range of articles that roll across my desk every Monday. Thank you to all who have contributed by either posting or reading, without you this would not survive. As of today we have posted over 200 articles of interest. I hope that it has brought some new ideas, helped you get to know WP, learn who we are and why we rock, and most importantly...laugh.

Thank you!

- Brian L.

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Tour of California

Over the past few years the interest in cycling has grown exponentially at WP. We now have people who commute regularly on their bikes and many others who ride on lunch breaks and weekends. So, as no surprise to anyone WP was well represented at the Prologue to the Tour of California, which took place in Downtown Sacramento. It was a 2.4 mile time trial and the winner finished in 4 minutes 32 seconds. For those playing along at home, that's fast. Levi Leipheimer finished 1st for the third straight year with teammate Lance Armstrong finishing 7th. This was Lance's return to cycling in the US and did not disappoint. At 37 years of age, and after 3 years off he proved he can still ride with the best in the world.

Spectators were given chalk from Lance Armstrong's LIVESTRONG team to write inspirational messages on the course.
It seemed everyone came out to cheer on Lance. Over 2 million over the 8 day tour.

Levi pushing towards the finish line.

These guys are fast...

- Brian L.

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WP University 101b

Last Thursday Professor Jack (Paddon) conducted WP University 101A - a history lesson which covered the evolution of Williams + Paddon Architects + Planners. Jack presented interesting discussion and provided a backdrop of several historical photos and news stories that he incorporated into his presentation. It was a pretty insightful lesson about the firm’s history (summarized within an hour), but most would agree that Jack could have used much more time. After all, he was going back almost 28 years.

As a great follow-up to Jack’s class, WP University 101B was given by Professor Terry (Green), which included a tour of several of W+Ps early projects that have paved the way in establishing Williams + Paddon Architects as one of the leading firms in the region. Terry provided historical information about the ideas and concepts for many of the designs, as we visited many of the significant project locations. Tom, Jeff, Will and I really enjoyed Terry’s relaxed style and appreciated the funny stories he shared.

Here are a few (of the many) photos that I shot while on the tour.

Hollywood Video was one Terry’s very first projects with W+P.

Whitney Oaks Golf Clubhouse was Terry’s first clubhouse.

Sierragate Plaza was one of the first office projects for W+P. It has Jack Paddon written all over it.

SMUD was one the most significant projects for W+P, Its energy efficient design has achieved the highest rating of LEED® Platinum Certification EB.

- Rose

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Naaz Knows

Our very own Naaz Alikhan was installed as the 2009 Roseville Chamber of Commerce President on January 20, 2009. Two very exciting, life changing events happened that day, but for those of us in the audience, at least we were a lot warmer than the people in DC. Jim Williams served as the MC and as he pointed out, the last time someone from WP was Chamber President we were in an economic recession. I’m not sure they will let anyone else from WP serve as President, but we know if anyone knows how to make it happen, “Naaz knows.” And thanks to Ralph Alsgood from Rudolph and Sletten Contractors for printing the “Naaz Knows” bumper stickers.

- Jodie and Rose

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