By Craig Kinzer & Kris Richey Curtis

The room was filled with government leaders, executives from the region’s top companies, community leaders and philanthropists; including Governor Jay Inslee, King County Executive Dow Constantine, Port of Seattle Commissioners, and the new CEO of Seattle Children’s, Jeff Sperring. Alaska Airlines CEO Brad Tilden spoke about Alaska’s passion for helping the community. We heard thoughts from other leaders including Governor Inslee on why Alaska is critical to the success of our region, and how much we love and support our hometown airline. Finally, our charismatic featured guest Russell Wilson spoke about how his parents instilled in him a desire to give back to others in need. Russell devotes a significant amount of his time helping children through his connection to football camps and weekly visits to Seattle Children’s Hospital. He was charming yet completely sincere, making him an incredibly approachable figure. The crowd asked Russel lots of questions about his popstar girlfriend Ciara, and of course how he will make a decision about his contract. Sadly he was vague on the contract details, but all the guests took home a football signed by Russell Wilson!