Leadership Spokane Newsletter

December 2008

The Servant Leader

A Publication of the Leadership Spokane Alumni Association

Greetings!

Welcome to Leadership Spokane's new e-newsletter. This new format will give you more timely information about upcoming community events and Leadership Spokane! We welcome your suggestions and news items.

Linda T. Finney
Executive Director

Message from the Chair

Allen Battle, Class of 2006

It's official, we are now in a recession! As with most of you, I didn't need the verdict of a brilliant overpaid group of the Washington elite. My shrinking 401k, a drop in my home's value and the closing of a small business down the street that I have been supporting for the past 15 years made it very clear that our economy is in a recession.

In order to stabilize our economy and bring this great city and country back to prominence, we must understand that there are sacrifices that each and every one of us are able to make no matter what our social or economic status. It's times like these when our real leadership must step forward and lead by example, so that others don't feel like they are carrying the whole burden. As unpleasant as the cycle is (and, yes, it is a cycle--some have seen it before and some will see it again) it will get better. I refuse to have a "mental recession" from all of the media accounts.

As a proud member of Leadership Spokane, I can look around and see some of the greatest and most outstanding servant leaders that any program in our community has produced. Unfortunately, Leadership Spokane has not been immune to the downturn in the economy, either. I don't think that anyone could argue the fact that this program is essential to the development of this great community and must continue its outreach to help develop those who have as well as those who do not have the financial ability to participate.

As we approach the New Year, we as an organization will be calling upon our alumni to make a small commitment to the building and continuation of this essential program. Please consider participating. I encourage everyone to spend more time giving thanks for the blessings that we have received than for the "things and stuff" that we don't. Happy Holidays to all.

Leadership Thought:

"The needs in our community this winter will become challenging. I'm thinking we should renew our efforts to support the food bank, providers of shelter and services for seniors and the poor. Leadership Spokane can shine the light on evolving community needs and coalesce the leaders to meet the needs head on."

- Garman Lutz, Class of 1993
Cascade Windows

One Thousand Smiles

Spokane Servant Leaders in Jamaica

Frankie Dietz (Class of 2007) returned November 15th from 8 days in Jamaica after volunteering for the 1000 Smiles project, a humanitarian dental project co- sponsored by Great Shape! Inc, Sandals Resorts and the Smile Foundation. The annual 1000 Smiles Project brings together dentists and hygienists from all over the US and Canada. They close their practices at home in order to open free clinics in the areas they serve.

Frankie served on the Education team in the Negril area. Her team of three visited a different primary school each day and did skits and lessons on brushing and general dental health. All of the 3000 children they met received a new toothbrush. The children were pretty well informed about their teeth, but were thrilled to get new brushes and often asked for more to take home. With the average annual income of Jamaicans at around $1000 US, a $2.00 toothbrush can be a luxury!

"From the first day out, I was struck by the outpouring of love and adoration from the children," Frankie commented. "The classrooms were crowded, but there was an eagerness in the eyes of the children to learn. Their teachers were so dedicated and helpful. They loved our message, but each school would have also liked to have a clinic, there is so much need. This was the first time I have had the privilege to serve like this. About the third day, I found myself alone on the beach overwhelmed with gratitude at being able to be there and be a part of something so big. They had warned us of this emotional response in orientation. Not only were we well treated by the general population and the folks at the Sandals Resorts, (who donated our accommodations) but the 50 other volunteers were all exceptional human beings, and so the expression of service was constant. I am still trying to put it all into perspective. But there is no doubt that it was life changing. I have been told that I have a big heart, but this almost busted it open! Thank you to all of you that supported us, through monetary donations as well as toothbrushes and toothpaste!"

Frankie is General Manager of Anthony's Restaurant.

Frankie and friends

Refer a leader today!

Do you know someone who is interested in creating lasting networks, understanding regional issues, refining leadership skills, and meeting and working with decision makers, industry professionals, and civic leaders? If so, encourage them to apply for the Leadership Spokane Class of 2010 and send their contact information to leadership@leadershipspokane.org.

Leadership Spokane's goal is to ensure that the community's pool of talented leaders is continually renewed. Annually, 45 to 50 individuals are accepted into the program and emerge as vigorous, well-informed and responsible leaders. The course begins with Orientation in August, a two-day overnight retreat in September and then meets the first Friday of the month through June. Students explore issues, culture, economy, history and infrastructure of our community. Professionals directly working in the day's topic present information and assist the students in exploration and study.

In addition, participants refine their leadership skills in consensus building, team building, systems thinking, facilitation, conflict resolution, visioning and personal leadership. Today, Leadership Spokane graduates are effective leaders in business, the neighborhoods, the arts, politics, education and human services.

Tuition for this 10-month program is $2,750. A limited number of scholarships is available. Applications will be on the website after the first of the year at www.LeaedershipSpokane.org.

For further information, contact Linda Finney, Executive Director, at 458.4110.

Leadership Spokane Class of 2008

Communication Day Scan Team (above)

Adult Communication Day at KSPS Public TV

Youth Leadership Spokane

Class notes

Career Moves

Tony Bonanzino (1992) is the CEO of Institute for Systems Medicine. Brendan Genther (2008) is Regional Revenue Manager for Extended Stay Hotels. Beth Hellwig-Olson (2003) is Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs and Dean of Students at the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Carol Landa-McVicker (2000) is President of the Washington State Trustees Association for Community and Technical Colleges. Stacey Marsh-Lockhart (1994) has left her position at University of Alaska and is moving back to Spokane, entering the job market. Kitara McClure (2008), PONY TALES Youth Services, announced that it is now a federally recognized 501.c.3 organization. They have opened a store front in the Northtown Mall. In addition to his role at Group Health, Dr. Rob Piston (2004) is Medical Director at The Guilds School. Kirsten Votava (1998) now works for Spokane Hoopfest Association.

Servant Leaders

Inland Northwest Community Foundation has elected Richard Boutz (1986), Washington Trust Bank, as chair of the board of directors. Gordon Budke (1983), Budke Consulting, PLLC; Kathleen Greco (1993), Guardian Life Insurance Company of America; and Chuck Lund (2000), Allstate Insurance Company, are board members at Junior Achievement. Betsy Cowles (1993), Cowles Co., has been named chair of Greater Spokane, Incorporated's Board of Trustees. Pat DeVries (1987), DeVries Information Management, is past-president for Crime Stoppers. Governor Chris Gregoire has appointed Latisha Hill (2003), Avista, to the Washington State Transportation Commission. Doug Kelley (2000), Avista, is chair of the Spokane Regional Sports Commission, a board member for EWU College of Business Advisory Committee, commissioner for Spokane County Planning Committee, and a member of the City of Spokane Valley Lodging Tax Advisory Council. Cynthia MacGeagh (2007), AmericanWest Bank, is a wish granter for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Lisa Malpass (2004), DSHS, is serving at Corbin Senior Activity Center as the chair of the finance committee. Kitara McClure (2008), SCC, was selected to serve on the DSHS Minority Advisory Committee and as chair of the Spokane Puiblic Schools Diversity Advisory Council.