Spotlight on Outgoing Board Members
David Heitler-Klevans
Hometown and Region:
Cheltenham, Pennsylvania, Mid-Atlantic Region. My original hometown is Ann Arbor, Michigan.
CMN member since:
Before I can remember! I think it is since 1990.
Joined CMN’s Board of Directors (BOD):
2009, I think.
What you like most about CMN:
The people! The warmth, sharing, generosity and commitment to children and to making the world a better place of CMN members.
Why people should serve on the BOD:
Like the general membership of CMN, the BOD is made up of really great people who are tons of fun to be around. It is great to get a chance to know these wonderful human beings better, and to work alongside them to help CMN to grow and change while maintaining the things that we all love about the organization.
A favorite CMN memory:
Here’s a couple: Bob Blue giving our twin sons rides on his electric scooter/wheelchair; mind-blowing conversations with Tom Hunter at the Nashville gathering/conference.
Favorite conference:
Do I really have to pick one? I have loved all of them, and I have been to practically every one, even back to when we just had a daytime Friday mini-conference piggybacked on the People’s Music Network weekend.
Final thoughts?
I love CMN, and it has been such an important part of my life as well as being a crucial influence on my family. Actually, I think of CMN as being part of my family—the best, most inspiring bunch of aunts and uncles that my sons could have. When I need to restore my faith in humanity (which seems more and more difficult these days), I think of CMN.
Lisa Heintz
Hometown and Region:
Born in Iowa, but have resided in Ohio for over twenty-two years, most recently in Columbus; Regional Coordinator for Great Lakes region.
CMN member since:
2007
Joined CMN’s Board of Directors (BOD):
2011
What you like most about CMN:
The integrity, commitment, compassion, willingness to share, and camaraderie of the membership.
Why people should serve on the BOD:
Every person has within them the power to make a difference in CMN in large and small ways, and I believe that each person should find a way to do that. Serving on the BOD is a wonderful opportunity to meet regularly with people who share a passion for CMN and wish to continue to grow and build the organization for the benefit of all. Also, unlike many BOD experiences, CMN is unique in that we operate by consensus. Everyone’s opinion is heard and understood; you are never simply outvoted, regardless of the topic or situation. It is an invaluable experience in working and collaborating with others. And it’s fun! We manage to make a lot of work lighter by all helping out and having a good time while we’re at it.
A favorite CMN memory:
One of my first Round Robins was when Dave Kinnoin’s cookies were auctioned off by Tom Pease with so much laughter and (faux) pressure! It was worth every dollar I donated—and the cookies rocked, which was truly the “icing on the cake” of my experience! :)
Favorite conference:
My very first conference: I was completely starstruck by seeing all my children’s favorite artists in person! I will never forget sitting in a group with Sammie Haynes and thinking, Oh my gosh, she’s even nicer in person than her voice sounds on the CD! And when she partnered with me for an activity during a session—without even knowing whether I was a singer, a drifter, a custodian—and she greeted me so warmly, I immediately felt at home. And it wasn’t just Sammie—that sort of thing happened to me repeatedly that weekend. I am still awestruck by the incredible people in CMN, and I’ve met so many more people since that first conference.
Final thoughts?
I will miss the BOD tremendously, but I will always be a CMN supporter. You will find me volunteering in a few ways moving forward, primarily as Regional Coordinator for GL and as the Song Library coordinator. I value the efforts of my compadres on the BOD and know that they will continue the work that is so vital to our organization. CMN is in good hands!
(photo by Susan Wilson)
Kim Wallach
Hometown and Region:
Keene, New Hampshire, New England Region
CMN member since:
I have no idea!
Joined CMN’s Board of Directors (BOD):
2011
What you like most about CMN:
The people, connecting through music and caring, sharing new ideas, and having fun while working!
Why should people serve on the BOD:
Get to know people better, put some of your ideas into action, and feel good about serving such a great organization.
A favorite CMN memory:
All my favorite memories involve some pretty spectacular group singing in harmony.
Favorite conference:
Whichever one I happen to be at.
Final thoughts?
I loved my time serving on the board, and would serve again in a heartbeat, once the other things in my life settle down. I’m in a huge time of transition!