The 2008 Leadership Clinton class members assembled for their October meeting in the Reflections Cafeteria conference room at CMH Regional Health System on Oct. 16.

After a breakfast compliments of CMH, the class members had time to share updates on their projects or any other “good news.” Ron Fithen gave the class a concise update on the Judy Gano walking trail that was recently added through the J. W. Williams city park. Brief reviews of personally chosen leadership books were given throughout the day by Bob Bowermeister, Jessica DeBold, Sue Dun, Teresa Jenkins, Melissa Holmes and Sue Reynolds.

After being welcomed to CMH by Dana Dunn, director of community development for CMH Regional Health System, the group took an abbreviated tour of the hospital. Once the group reassembled in the conference room, Andy Riddell, CEO of CMH Regional Health System, addressed the group on several topics including how to influence a CEO, the utilization of the Foster J. Boyd, MD, Regional Cancer Center, a short DVD program titled “A Brand New Look at CMH” (which can be viewed at www.cmhregional.com) and the ongoing affiliation process the hospital is involved in with several larger hospitals. The purpose of this process is to find the best fit between CMH and the affiliated hospital so services can continue to be expanded locally. Riddell expressed that he understood this was a tough decision for the hospital board but it truly comes down to “whether you want a county hospital or a hospital in the county.”

Riddell then shared a few thoughts regarding what it is like for him to be a CEO. He describes this position as being the “Chief Empowerment Officer.” He sees this role as one to motivate. “To move people you have to capture their mind and heart, but more than that you have to capture the soul or spirit of the organization.” People have to feel invested in and appreciated by their employers. He discussed many scenarios that leaders might find themselves involved in. His advice to everyone was, above all else do the right thing.

The class members then spent time reviewing the results of their DiSC personal profile analysis results. Riddell gave the class members some general information regarding personality tests. These types of test should not be viewed as pointing out weaknesses or road blocks but rather used as opportunities for self discovery and self improvement. You should never allow these tests to determine your life goals, but use them as growth tools.

Jama and Dr. Ruth Hayes were gracious enough to open their home to class members and provide a fabulous meal. Jama shared the history of Peterson Place with the class. Currently the green space in Peterson Place is maintained by the homeowners association. This association has adopted a constitution and by-laws that now govern “The Circle.”

The group then traveled by DHL van to Blanchester. During the ride, class member Richard Braley shared the history of Blanchester with the class. We were given a tour of R & R Tool, Inc. This company is in the forefront of developing and producing medical products. The owners and staff took time out of their busy schedules to share their mission, vision and company with class members.

Next the class took a tour of Blanchester Care Center and spent a few minutes with Jeff Weiner, director. Weiner shared his knowledge of long term care facilities, reimbursement criteria, and answered any questions the class members had.

Finally, the class traveled to the Village of Blanchester building where they met Elmer Williams. Williams, the inaugural president of the Leadership Clinton program, helped organize the Downtown Revitalization Committee (DRC). The DRC is very active in developing plans to revitalize Blanchester and expand the park systems. The committee has applied for grant money to help expand the parks and holds monthly fundraisers as well.

Chris Owens, director of the Blanchester library and president of the Blanchester Chamber of Commerce, provided the group with a brief list of some of the activities the chamber is involved in. These include an annual spring roast, July Fourth celebration and the supporting the Business Man and Woman of the Year and the Citizen of the Year.

Chad Hollon, mayor of Blanchester, gave the class a brief overview of the government of Blanchester. The village does not have an income tax but is supported by property taxes. There are four parks cared for by Blanchester. The village has 42 employees, one police chief, six full-time police officers, four part-time officers and a fiscal officer. He also shared that Blanchester is the only town named Blanchester in the United States.

The group then traveled back to CMH via the DHL van to adjourn for the day. The last class day will be Thursday at Camp Joy. Graduation for the 2008 Leadership Clinton Class will be Nov. 13.