My job was supposed to be relatively simple, contact my classmates and ask them to share what was going on in their county or something personal that everyone would be interested in reading. I seem to have fallen short for my article, not everyone understood that to have a good newsletter they have to contribute. Remember, you were chosen to be one of the few to attend regional leadership...I know you are busy, but we all want to know how you're doing and what's going on with you.
So, call me with your info!
Phone:865-453-5500 or e-mail to: Linda Ogle
I want to tell you a few things I have learned by standing at the fence post; I've leaned that the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person. I've learned that being kind is more important than being right. I've learned that sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand. I've learned that life is like a roll of toilet paper, the closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes!
Now for some news from your classmates:
From Claiborne County: Marisa Anders
Claiborne County is celebrating it's Bicentennial this year. There will be a fishing tournament on Norris Lake, concerts and other events. Please contact Marisa and she will give you specific dates. (insert e-mail address)
From Oak Ridge: Ray Smith
As a follow on to the Leadership Oak Ridge Class of '98 project I am helping raise $35,000 for Anderson County Health Council to assist their Healthy Start/Healthy Families program. This program aids first time mothers who are at risk for abuse or neglect of their infants. This program is such a success that other counties in our region might be interested in starting a similar effort. Contact Ray for more information: drsmith@esper.com
Roane County: Pete Malmquist
Like others, I miss getting to see everyone. I am serving on a Health Effects subcommittee for the Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry and part of the Center for Disease Control's Department of Human Services. We are looking at substances that were discharged from the Oak Ridge site to determine what damage may have been done, who might have been affected and to make recommendations for possible solutions. This is at least a two year project. Oh, and on a personal note...Linda and I have just returned from a few weeks in Fort Myers Beach where we rested, ate excellent seafood and enjoyed ourselves immensely! (DON'T FORGET THE FISH ARE BITING ON WATTS BAR!)
Sevier County: Linda Ogle
I miss all my friends, all the bus rides, trading recipes (I made the potato cookies!), all the wonderful lunches and snacks, but most of all I miss my special Wednesday when I knew I was going to be with my new friends. I've learned that just one person saying to me "You've made my day!" ...MAKES MY DAY!
Until the next issue of The LEADER!,
Linda