Otak Blog

Last Friday, Otakians from the Lake Oswego office gathered at Tualatin Community Park for a company potluck. With clouds in the sky, the weather was not ideal but that did not stop people from partying. Otakians enjoyed each other’s good company as they munched on hamburgers, three-alarm chili, pecan pie, and other tasty treats. Kids (and eventually even some adults) had a blast knocking candy out from the teddy-bear-shaped piñata. The water balloon toss led to wet clothes, and of course a water balloon fight in the end. Happens every year! A great time was had by all, and not a drop of rain fell from the sky.

Last week two members of Kirkland’s Water and Natural Resources group, David Thurman and Ryan Hawkins, found a new way to commute from Seattle to Kirkland…..by kayak. Taking advantage of the calm summer weather and the office’s proximity to Lake Washington, the kayakers left Ryan’s house at 6 o’clock in the morning. The two-hour, six-mile paddling trip included calm waters with a gentle tailwind and very little boat traffic; however, the wetlands between the lake and the office was a challenge to walk through. The grasses were almost as tall as David who is 6′6″!

The return trip was a bit easier with the sun shining on the beautiful lake. Since the first trek out, the Otakians have found a new path around the wetlands so they look forward to an easier trip next time.

Otak’s Carbondale office co-hosted a Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours block party on July 15, 2009. A colorful slideshow of photos and memorabilia from Lindsey Utter’s two-month junket in Otak’s Abu Dhabi office were on display, along with samples of Otak’s recent work on the Khalifa City B and North Wathba Masterplan development projects in the United Arab Emirates. Carbondale staff was on hand to greet guests, enjoy some great food, and savor the sun-drenched summer evening.