I am an adjunct instructor for MSU-GF, teaching Interpersonal Communications and Legal Transcription.  I have a Master's in Counseling Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies from the University of Great Falls.  I work full-time as the lead workers' compensation paralegal for FairClaim/Linnell Newhall Martin & Schulke, but my true passion is photography.  My first manuscript A Curious Shade of Blue is currently being prepared for print release in March 2009.  I love the brief amount of time the seasons in Montana allow me to ride my 2008 Honda CBR 500 motorcycle.  Most of all, I have an 11 year old son who I spend most of my free time playing football, Rock Band and Guitar Hero with.
 

Judy Hay and Mike Woodhead attended a statewide meeting via teleconference on the topic of Rapid Response protocols for displaced and unemployed workers around the state.  The Governor requested that members of Community Management Teams, of which MSUGF is a mandatory member, attend to make sure all displaced workers are receiving the services they should be in the face of our current economic conditions.  There was discussion about the communities that have had large employer closures such as Kalispell, Missoula, Billings, and Livingston and how these communities have been serving the displaced workers.  Other communities such as Great Falls, in which there have been individuals or very small groups of individuals losing jobs here and there have a little different job to do to make sure each person gets all of the information and help they should. 
 
There will be some Stimulus Bill monies coming to the state to assist with these efforts, and in the near future the use and amounts will become more clear.  Some money may be available for two-year colleges to develop some targeted short-term programs that address local or state needs.  The main need voiced by the communities that have had big layoffs has been in trades areas such as welding, carpentry, machining, etc.
 
After the meeting there was a short discussion of what we can do in Great Falls.  There will be follow up discussion at the next Community Management Team meeting in March which Judy and Mike will attend.