1) We're still actively looking for 1 more blockchain dev, we've spoke to many, but we're looking for committed devs with some background experience at this point.
What are your requirements for a blockchain dev? Do you want someone who can create a whole new type of blockchain, or someone who can do the genesis block for an existing type of blockchain?
Are you going to be using NEMs blockchain design, or are you considering other designs? It's difficult to switch designs after the genesis block. Each time NXT made blockchain design enhancements it caused problems for users.