In this post, you’ll hear from those who have registered for the upcoming Pop Up in Portland, Oregon.
View the complete agenda and register.
Erin Reynolds
City Manager – City of Florence
Steve Campbell III
Director of Public Safety – City of Happy Valley
Gayla Jennings
City of Portland, OR
Nic Westendorf
Management Analyst – City of Tualatin, OR
In keeping with the “Choose Your Own Adventure” theme, what’s the biggest adventure that you’ve had either personally or professionally?
Life. its wild. I still have no idea what I’m doing.
What’s one specific action that an organization should take around issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Ensure diverse groups are at the table. The issue is not going away and it’s not helpful to have a half dozen middle aged white men sit around a table and discuss how to engage diverse groups just to check a box to meet the organizations “values”. Once you have the right people engaged, do something about it. Listen to them and take action. Be genuine or you’ll quickly lose them. People know when you’re leading them along as a token gesture.
What’s your Mt. Rushmore (top 4) of fall activities?
Hiking, Packers games, wineries, & fall colors (I miss those).
If you couldn’t attend the Pop Up closest to you, which other Pop Up would you want to attend?
MKE. Duhh….
Who should we invite to appear on the next episode of GovLove?
Scott Lazenby
Julia Burrows
Governing Institute
Ken Warner
Assistant DIrector, Parks & Recreation, City of West Linn, OR
Heather Moline
The Performa Group/Center for Public Service
In keeping with the “Choose Your Own Adventure” theme, what’s the biggest adventure that you’ve had either personally or professionally?
Living/working two years in Managua, Nicaragua as a popular educator.
What’s one specific action that an organization should take around issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Invite Luna Jiménez Institute for Social Transformation to do a training for you. Their approach is unique and incredibly holistic.
What’s your Mt. Rushmore (top 4) of fall activities?
- Ceili (social Irish) dancing–connect with me for more info; all are welcome!
- Making red lentil cauliflower curry soup
- Making pumpkin spice oatmeal
- Corvallis Fall Festival
If you couldn’t attend the Pop Up closest to you, which other Pop Up would you want to attend?
I would never turn down a pop-up/dancing weekend in Miami.
Who should we invite to appear on the next episode of GovLove?
Nickole Cheron, Program Coordinator/Former Disability Coordinator, Office of Equity and Human Rights, City of Portland
Marta Tarantsey
Regional Development Officer, Business Oregon
Dylan Truong
University of Oregon
Stephanie Warneke
Communications Specialist – City of Happy Valley, OR
Felicita Monteblanco
Policy & Advocacy Officer – Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center & Foundation
LinkedIn & Twitter
In keeping with the “Choose Your Own Adventure” theme, what’s the biggest adventure that you’ve had either personally or professionally?
Two years I took my first international solo trip to Buenos Aires to dance tango! It was scary to go on my own, but I’m so glad I did – I hope all women find an opportunity to travel solo, I learned a lot about myself and had an absolute blast!
What’s one specific action that an organization should take around issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion?
First, a commitment from leadership making it clear that no one is exempt from this work – no matter your role, your position with the organization. Second, some basic training for ALL staff – everyone needs to start getting comfortable with the vocabulary of DEI work. And of course, leadership needs to financially support this work.
What’s your Mt. Rushmore (top 4) of fall activities?
Walking/Hiking, Tea and a good book, Campaigning for candidates and causes I care about, gardening
If you couldn’t attend the Pop Up closest to you, which other Pop Up would you want to attend?
Definitely Miami – I’ve always wanted to go there and salsa dance a bunch!
Who should we invite to appear on the next episode of GovLove?
Leaders in Parks: Leon Andrews of ELGL and NRPA, Johnathan Jones of Albany
And/or leaders in libraries: Anyone from the Hillsboro Library 🙂
Brilliant Sociologies talking about the power of parks and libraries: Eric Klinenberg
Carol Bua
Communications Manager – City of Vancouver, WA
Karla Alaniz
Management Analyst – Multnomah County, OR
Matt Moline
Budget Analyst – Multnomah County, OR
Patrick Rollens
Public Information Officer – City of Corvallis, OR
LinkedIn & Twitter
In keeping with the “Choose Your Own Adventure” theme, what’s the biggest adventure that you’ve had either personally or professionally?
Packing up my family and moving cross-country to Oregon in the depths of winter to take a new job in local gov!
What’s one specific action that an organization should take around issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Childcare at meetings! Lack of childcare is a big hindrance for working families that would like to attend and participate in local democracy.
What’s your Mt. Rushmore (top 4) of fall activities?
- Chili (beef, beans, corn, adobo peppers, served with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese)
- Football (hard for me at the moment because of kids, but nothing feels more like fall)
- Mulled cider in a pot on the stove
- Outdoor fire pit with friends and family
If you couldn’t attend the Pop Up closest to you, which other Pop Up would you want to attend?
Miami! Never been there, need a good excuse to visit.
Who should we invite to appear on the next episode of GovLove?
How about Beth Anne Steele, the PIO for the FBI in Oregon? She was the lead PIO during the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge standoff and has tons of fascinating stories about that whole situation.
Shelley Devine
General Counsel – TriMet
Joshua McNeal IV
City of Portland, OR
Miles Glowacki
Neighborhood and Community Involvement Program Coordinator – City of Beaverton
Charity Taylor
Kincaid Intern – City of Lake Oswego, OR
Katie Babits
Equity and Human Rights Analyst – City of Eugene, OR
In keeping with the “Choose Your Own Adventure” theme, what’s the biggest adventure that you’ve had either personally or professionally?
Since I’ve started my current role in equity & inclusion at an organizational & community level, it has pushed me to grow personally & professionally in ways I didn’t know were possible. Before this role, my approach was to think about how people should perceive me, & to act that way. I’ve learned that in order to truly build trust, I needed to come with authenticity. Instead of being what I thought people wanted, I went through quite a bit of personal reflection to learn about who I truly was to the core, & how that person, the real me, can be successful in my role. Since that revelation, I have been able to connect with community members and employees on a deeper level & bring my whole self to the role.
What’s one specific action that an organization should take around issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Get creative with learning. People are generally intimidated to learn about diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) because no one wants to be called racist, but everyone has great intentions. I like to create a toolkit for employees to learn in the ways that make the most sense for wherever they are in the DEI learning spectrum. We have a list of books, articles, podcasts, online videos from 5 minute clips to 20 minute TED Talks. Then we will offer hour sessions where we will show a TED Talk & have a discussion, or build a book club around one of the books & meet once a month for three months. People can utilize the list & learn on their own, & then branch out to come to sessions & interact with people.
3. What’s your Mt. Rushmore (top 4) of fall activities?
1. Football
2. Vacation
3. Eating
4. Planning for holiday decorating
If you couldn’t attend the Pop Up closest to you, which other Pop Up would you want to attend?
Ooh that’s tough… I’m really interested in the Sconnie conference, I learned so much about the upper Midwest cities in grad school. But I also love all the ELGL activity coming out of California, so I’d want to go to that one, too. And I’m excited to see Florida bolstering their ELGL love! I basically didn’t decide. Maybe I should have just sent a gif of Multiplicity…
Who should we invite to appear on the next episode of GovLove?
It would be cool to interview people who worked on the research behind Leading with Race from the Coalition of Communities of Color. They will be on a panel at #ELGLPopUps PDX, but being able to share that work more broadly could have an awesome impact.
David Donaldson
Public Works Director – City of Beaverton, OR
Nic Westendorf
Management Analyst – City of Tualatin, OR
Amber Mathiesen
City Manager – City of Mt. Angel, OR
LinkedIn & Twitter
In keeping with the “Choose Your Own Adventure” theme, what’s the biggest adventure that you’ve had either personally or professionally?
Personally bungee jumping, or maybe bull riding, it’s hard to choose. Professionally, City Management has been an adventure as a total package.
What’s one specific action that an organization should take around issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Providing training to staff and ensuring hiring processes do not create inherent bias.
What’s your Mt. Rushmore of fall activities?
- Oktoberfest
- Hikes in crisp weather
- Baking pumpkin pie
- Preparing to hibernate
If you couldn’t attend the Pop Up closest to you, which other Pop Up would you want to attend?
Miami, because I have never been there.
Who should we invite to appear on the next episode of GovLove?
Roy Harrel, Yamhill County Sherriff’s office. He runs the cadet program and manages the Mt. Angel Oktoberfest Cadet crew. He does a good job of engaging young people and offering them a meaningful work experience.
John Morgan
Executive Director, The Chinook Institute for Civic Leadership
LinkedIn & Twitter
What book are you currently reading?
“Astrophysics for People in a Hurry” by Neil deGrasse Tyson. Great book to keep feeding one’s thirst for knowledge in all fields.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Sit next to someone popular, just like in high school. Maybe it will rub off, or you get the left-overs.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Leadership and success in rural communities. It is intense, it is raw, it is real, it is tough, it is full of potential, it is important.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I…. am inspirited reflected in my happiness about the day!
Shannan Coyle
Police Records Supervisor – City of Milwaukie, OR
What book are you currently reading?
When Life Gives You Lululemons by Lauren Weisberger. Yes, this book is very different from what I normally pick but it is a good easy read!
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Surf Monkeys – has the fewest endings of any book in the original series, with long stretches without decision-making.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Putting yourself out there and introducing yourself to new people.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Civilians in the police department.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… can meet at least one new person.
Sue Ryan
City Recorder – City of Cascade Locks, OR
What book are you currently reading?
The Prisoner in the Castle by Susan Elia MacNeal – A Maggie Hope mystery. If you like Agatha Christie style murder mysteries and a high body count it’s for you. If the thought of tea, WWII and a whodunit has you rolling your eyes then skip it.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Talk to people 🙂 For an introvert this is harder than it sounds. Yes, extroverts I can feel your eyes rolling from here.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Teaching civic government to people who have never served on a committee but decided to run for office.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… go.
Rachel Sykes
Support Services Supervisor at City of Lake Oswego, Oregon
What book are you currently reading?
Haven’t had time to read this summer! Will get back on the bandwagon when it starts raining : D
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Don’t be nervous! Everyone is there to network and meet new people. If you put yourself out there, others will respond and you will make some great connections.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Process Improvements and Streamlining. Continuous steps towards a more efficient organization. We are striving for this one step at a time.
Here’s a video that is motivating.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… have Fun, Learn something new, meet someone new, and gain further appreciation for local government.
Gloria Butsch
Finance Manager – City of Independence, OR
LinkedIn & Twitter
What book are you currently reading?
Little French Bistro. I would recommend it, because it is a story about a woman breaking away from male dominance.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Be a good listener, don’t be a bore; speak with confidence, but limit how much you talk about yourself.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Budgeting for the next recession
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I…. learn something new.
Jason Kistler
IT Manager – City of Independence, OR
LinkedIn & Twitter
What book are you currently reading?
Various software manuals – I wouldn’t recommend it!
Which book “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Put yourself out there and talk to people you don’t know!
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Smart Cities, Keeping rural competitive, law enforcement, cyber security, telecom
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I…. learn something new.
Madison Thesing
Management & Program Analyst – City of Lake Oswego, OR
LinkedIn & Twitter
What book are you currently reading?
I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara. Yes, if you like true crime. No, if you do not like serial killers, mysteries, or California references.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Connect with new and old friends!
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Small cell, smart cities, & rapidly changing technology that cities need to embrace, not fight.
https://www.citylab.com/design/2018/09/how-smart-should-a-city-be-toronto-is-finding-out/569116/
http://www.governing.com/blogs/bfc/col-san-jose-path-smart-city-leadership.html
http://www.governing.com/commentary/col-boston-cio-small-cell-antennas-bureaucratic-procedures.html
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… am inspired and re-energized.
Alissa Mahar
VP & CFO – Clackamas Community College
What book are you currently reading?
The Minimalist – yes I would recommend, makes one consider the important things in life (and mostly not material).
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Surf Monkeys – has the fewest endings of any book in the original series, with long stretches without decision-making.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Welcome new people into your conversations and don’t be afraid to start a conversation with someone you don’t know.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Systematic approaches to public/private partnerships.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I…. have new ideas/concepts I can put into practice at my workplace.
Keelan McClymont
Administrative Analyst, Office of the CFO at Multnomah County
What book are you currently reading?
The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind. I just started it, so I’m not sure if I would recommend it yet.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Smile at people and ask them what’s going on in their job right now.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Succession planning, how to manage knowledge transfer as retirements increase and senior leaders leave for the private sector.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… feel welcomed, have good conversations, eat good food, and learn from other local government leaders.
Mike Cully
Executive Director – League of Oregon Cities
LinkedIn & Twitter
What book are you currently reading?
LOC 2018-2019 Adopted Budget. I’d only recommend this for those with steel nerves.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Name badges with large sized font.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
I’m a big fan of disruptive mobility and mobility as a service.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if…. I make at least one new friend that not an animal.
Brandi Leos
Senior HR Business Partner – City of Tigard, Oregon
LinkedIn & Twitter
What book are you currently reading?
I wish I was reading a book 🙁
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Make sure to find and talk to some familiar faces, some new faces, and someone who is aspiring to your field.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Engaging community and employees
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if… I learn something unexpected.
Byron Smith
City Manager – City of Hermiston, OR
What book are you currently reading?
Assisted: An Autobiography of John Stockton. I would recommend it. It tells a great story of hard work and talent. It tells of a principled man living in a celebrity world.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Greet and start a conversation with each person you sit by.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Innovative Financing
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if…. I learn one thing to help Hermiston.
Cate Schneider
Planning & Management Analyst – Multnomah County, Oregon
What book are you currently reading?
Achtung baby. Yes. An Oregonian moves to Berlin with her family and learns to appreciate German parenting norms that encourage self-reliance and independence. If you liked Bringing Up Bebe, this will appeal to you!
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Have a beer and start talking.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Technology, the future, and how our use of technology impacts social behavior and our sense of community. This article is not specific to local gov, but hits on some of those themes.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if… I leave hearing some interesting presentations and make a few good connections.
Joe Gall
City Manager – City of Sherwood, OR
LinkedIn & Twitter
What book are you currently reading?
“Start with Why” by Simon Sinek – enjoying it so far but only half-way through
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Talk with new people – pretty simple advice
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Community engagement – especially how it is evolving and changing
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… learn something new and meet new people.
Megan Phelan
Assistant City Manager – City of Lake Oswego, OR
What book are you currently reading?
The Book of Unknown Americans by Christina Henriquez. I started it yesterday and so far so good.
Which”Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time – has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Ask questions. Be inquisitive. We all have connections.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
How autonomous vehicles and drones will shape cities in the future.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… reconnect with people I have not seen in a while and meet new people.
Jeff Towery
City Manager – City of Springfield, OR
What book are you currently reading?
Saving a Middle-Class Multiracial American City 1960-2013 by Charles Henry. YES, it is relevant and I was terribly fond of Charlie.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Sit with someone who you don’t know (or don’t know well).
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
This documentary is quite interesting and emphasizes the need for both emergency response and resilience planning, locally, but especially state wide:
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… learn something new, get some inspiration and make people laugh at least once.
Stephanie Betteridge
Chief Innovation Officer – City of Gresham, OR
What book are you currently reading?
Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone by Brene Brown.
I’ve just started it, but given what I’ve read, would certainly recommend it. It provides a opportunity to reflect on your values and purpose.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Be yourself and listen more than you speak.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Continuous improvement and innovation – making small changes to improve service delivery to the community and meet their changing needs and expectations.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… someone new and leave with at least one idea/concept that I can bring back and apply in Gresham.
Lindsay Jacques
Management Fellow – City of Hillsboro, OR
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
Julie Underwood
City Manager – City of Shoreline, WA
LinkedIn & Twitter
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
Erin Lowery
Senior Financial Analyst – Clean Water Services
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
Mary Rowe
Human Resources Director – Oregon Metro
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
Jennifer Quisenberry
Member Communications/Executive Support Specialist – Special Districts Association of Oregon
What book are you currently reading?
Goodnight Moon. I would definitely recommend it. It’s a short read and a wonderful bedtime story.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Surf Monkeys – has the fewest endings of any book in the original series, with long stretches without decision-making.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Smile and say hello.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Everything.
Complete the sentence: I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… learn something new.
Amber Autry
Human Resources Manager – City of Happy Valley, OR
What book are you currently reading?
Currently reading the IPMA Certification study guide! I don’t know if I would recommend it just yet, as I have not taken the exam yet!!
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Listen… and then share!
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Inclusion is always going to be a challenge and a hot topic. I found this wonderful YouTube video that I plan to share with my leadership team soon. “Inclusion Starts With I .”
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I…. learned something refreshingly new to me!
Julia Warren
Human Resources Analyst – City of Lake Oswego, OR
What book are you currently reading?
Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking (2005) by Malcolm Gladwell
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Set up a networking event after the lectures/presentations for those interested in meeting others.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
National Security versus Civil Liberties
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… pick up a new perspective or learn something new.
Dana Bennett
Human Resources Director – City of Tigard, OR
What book are you currently reading?
Silent in the Grave. Yes I would recommend it to anyone who has a love of regency area England. The novel it is an interesting combination of characters and a portrait of how the society of the time restricted their roles and yet they pushed against the norm to make their own way.
Of these three iconic “Choose Your Own Adventure” book titles and descriptions, which best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Topic tables, where attendees can drift toward a table sign with a topic they are interested in, and then discuss some aspect of that topic with whom ever else is at that table.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Looking for ways to integrate it into our agency, while not disassociating current staff, but instead bringing them along.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… have a new idea or two about how to operationalize DEI.
Jil Heimensen
Student, Portland State
What book are you currently reading?
I’m reading Chopin’s Etude in C Major Op. 10 No. 2. I would recommend it because it is only four pages and not very difficult as far as the etudes are concerned.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Sit at a table with people you don’t know.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Right now I’m learning about collective bargaining agreements.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… learn new things and meet interesting people!
Jordan Imlah
Public Affairs Specialist – City of Milwaukie, OR
LinkedIn & Twitter
What book are you currently reading?
Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World by Adam Grant. I would definitely recommend reading this book! It shares very insightful perspectives into how people think differently, cultivate creativity and recognize good ideas. It also inspires you to feel more confident to go against the grain and break traditional molds in work and home environments. Originals also helped me feel much better about procrastinating and doubting myself. Adam Grant has a wonderful TED Talk that goes along with the book. It’s a very worthwhile read!
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Try not to ask the typical questions you often hear at networking events. Look for ways of connecting on multiple levels.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Storytelling is topic I’m quite interested in. Finding ways to tell the organization’s story in a meaningful way that resonates with the community.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I…. learn how another city resolved an issue I’m currently facing.
Amanda Rapinchuk
Associate – Express Employment Professionals
What book are you currently reading?
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
The book illustrates the unique experience of a Nigerian woman immigrating to the US. It discusses the complexities of the main character’s identity development and intersectionality as a black and African woman in contrast to identifying as an African American woman.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Ask probing questions and commit to following up with at least two of the contacts that you become acquainted with.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Process Improvement, Innovation, and Community Engagement
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… am challenged to think differently or learn about a perspective that is different from my own.
Megan George
Operations Director – League of Oregon Cities
LinkedIn & Twitter
What book are you currently reading?
East of Eden by John Steinbeck. I would absolutely recommend it.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Patience and self-compassion.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Leadership.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… learn something I can implement on the Monday following the conference.
Jenni Kistler
Program Manager – League of Oregon Cities
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Surf Monkeys – has the fewest endings of any book in the original series, with long stretches without decision-making.
Elissa Preston
Human Resources Director – City of West Linn, OR
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Don’t hide in the bathroom. I have to push myself to be an extrovert and intentionally put myself out there to meet new people.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Employee Engagement
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I…. see See Kirsten Wyatt 😉
Melissa Grace
City Recorder – City of McMinnville, OR
What book are you currently reading?
Shoot like a girl.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Sit by someone new during conference and at lunch. Visit during breaks.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Bargaining.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… learn something new that I can apply or be inspired by.
Troy Schader
Supervisor, Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District
What book are you currently reading?
Raising Men…Yes, its very good.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Island of Time- has the shortest path from beginning to an end.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Talking to people
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Infrastructure management
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I…. learn something new.
Catherine McMullen
Voter Education & Outreach Specialist – Multnomah County, Oreg
LinkedIn & Twitter
What book are you currently reading?
Just starting some books about Vietnam. Traveling there the 2nd half of October to study local government.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for successfully networking at a local government conference?
I’m an introvert that forces myself to be social so I’m not one to ask. I just make a goal of meeting people and learning from them. Almost everyone I meet is interesting and has something to teach.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… learn something new and meet other local gov leaders wanting to empower the communities they serve.
Nichole Biechler
Human Resources Director, Wasco County
What book are you currently reading?
Essex Serpent by Sarah Perry.
Transformational Leadership by Joshua Medcalf & Jamie Gilbert. Yes! Each chapter makes me dig deep into my thought process on how to revolutionize County government.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Surf Monkeys – has the fewest endings of any book in the original series, with long stretches without decision-making.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Scream your name loudly and fiercely across the room for all to hear? No, not my style. Smile, extend a hand-shake, share a name and job title and the rest follows suit.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
PERS. How do we dig ourselves out of this mess?
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… can just figure out what ELGL stands for.
Lisa Shaw
Business Manager – Tigard Police Department
What book are you currently reading?
A Higher Loyalty, by James Comey.
I would recommend the book – it’s a quick read and gives you a glimpse inside an aspect of the current administration. As a career public employee, his story really resonated with me.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Decide that you will speak to new people and set a goal for asking at least one question to five new people. Also, don’t just sit with people you already know.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Financial sustainability and how to approach this complex topic with citizens, elected officials as well as non-financial staff.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I…. learn something that sparks a new idea!
Elizabeth Gray
Assistant to the City Manager – City of Silverton, OR
What book are you currently reading?
Recently I finished Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan, before seeing the movie. I highly recommend both: the book has a winning combo of family poignancy and hilarious details; at 500 plus fast moving pages, there’s no way all of that can make it into the movie, so I try both! I’m waiting on the library for both sequels. I just started The Line Becomes a River by Francisco Cantu (nonfiction).
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
ELGL conferences have always been so friendly. I’d say asking someone about what they are excited to be learning about at the moment – that’s a question that speaks to anyone, whether a vendor, student, or working professional. That and make sure your name badge is facing the right way 🙂
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
I have some new HR responsibilities so am trying to absorb every suggestion I receive in that area. A fun read – more in the relationships camp than the legal camp most of the time – is the “Ask a Manager” blog and now book that address a lot of the big and little issues that come up in a workplace.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… have an idea to try on Monday (and have tried all the snacks!)
Vanessa Vicente
Clackamas Community College
What book are you currently reading?
Study Guides for the SHRM test
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Get to know a few personal fun facts about others.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Employee engagement
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… gain a new perspective.
Angie Bond
Total Compensation Manager, Metro
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Surf Monkeys – has the fewest endings of any book in the original series, with long stretches without decision-making.
Jenna Jones
Intergovernmental Relations Associate, League of Oregon Cities
What book are you currently reading?
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah. I would recommend it because he has a fun writing style.
Which “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Be kind.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
5G/Small Cell Deployment and Net Neutrality.
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I…. learn something new.
Ben Bryant
Assistant City Manager – City of Happy Valley, OR
What book are you currently reading? Would you recommend it?
Happiest Baby on the Block. For any new parent who isn’t getting sleep, it’s helpful and terrifying at the same time.
Which iconic “Choose Your Own Adventure” book best describes your local government career?
Mystery of the Maya – has time travel, and keeps sending the reader back to the same page and place in time.
What’s your advice for networking at a local government conference?
Attend the social gatherings, even if just for a little bit.
Which local government topic is most fascinating to you right now?
Small cell technology
I’ll leave #ELGLPopUps happy if I… am inspired.