Several members of my Leadership Boise class have done exactly what the program encouraged us to do: become actively involved in the Boise community. And two members have plunged in with a deeper commitment that will ensure that one of them is elected to the State Legislature in November.
Brian Cronin, Democrat, and Kevin McGowan, Republican, will face each other in the general election for State House District 19. Both were active members of our Leadership Boise Class of 2005-2007.
The Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce has been putting on the program since 1975. The first year of the program, class members learn about, discuss and debate all aspects of the community by focusing in on specific issues facing the community. Primary coverage areas include quality of life, education, government, infrastructure and environment, media, business, health care, legal and social issues.
The second year, members sign up for committees to put together programs for the next class.
As a new member to the community, the Leadership Boise class was a great way to learn in-depth about virtually every aspect of the community. We discussed issues ranging from growth to transportation, from the arts to community service, and from education to prisons.
Along the way, we networked with a whole new set of acquaintances as we put our community – and each other – under a microscope.
Part of the program encourages people to become active community leaders. By committing to run for the State Legislature, Cronin and McGowan have taken the next step. One of them will be representing their Leadership Boise class as well as their district.
Sorry if you were wanting controversy here. I know this reads like a blatant commercial for the program, but it's one that deserves attention. Getting into the class requires a one day a month commitment for two years and a $1,250 fee. That ensures a financial as well as emotional commitment to the program. This year’s application deadline if Friday, May 16.
If you’re new to the community or just want to examine it a little closer, this is a great way to do it. And what’s great about it is that the age spectrum of the class allows a healthy, diversified discussion of topics from different perspectives.
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9 Comments
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Kevin is a formidable candidate...he is, for all practical purposes, absolutely perfect for the position and subsequent advancement into legislative leadership...and beyond. The question is: Will he be able to spread the word about his qualifications effectively enough? Best of luck to both candidates. Comment By Leo A. Geis
Saturday, May 10, 2008 @ 12:00 PM
It's terrific these 2 guys have decided they've had enough & have set out to make a difference. Bravo! sincerely. But when I read the 2 page LB brochure on the web (with the $1250 cost) & their 5 page application, it's puzzling. When I juxtapose what this "leadership program" purports to accomplish (since 1975), someone has really dropped the ball here. And when you review the real pickle Idaho is in, especially in Ada/Canyon counties... subject to the atavistic mercies of our all-powerful, Jurassic Legislature...'where's the beef?' No mention made about studying the very nature of Idaho's imperial legislature & its near total control over normal municipal functions...completely unique among EVERY WESTERN state. Once again, the Boise Chamber needs to get a clue. Comment By Bill Sellers Idaho Falls
Sunday, May 11, 2008 @ 2:41 PM
Yes Adam, if I recall correctly they ran against each other in that class as well. If past is prologue, I'll look forward to having Brian as my next representative in District 19. He certainly made great gains as the head of Ada County Democrats and is also incredibly devoted to building a vibrant community in Boise. He sports an impressive array of endorsements at his website, http://www.votecronin.com/ including Mayor Bieter. Comment By Sisyphus
Monday, May 12, 2008 @ 12:15 PM
Leadership Boise is a great way to expose our young leaders to the issues that will shape Boise's future. Kevin and Brian are both impressive products of the program. I know Kevin very well. Kevin is actively involved in the community, and cares deeply about Boise's future. Currently, Kevin is doing great things as President of the North End Neighborhood Association. For those of you who do not know Kevin, you should check out his webpage. www.mcgowanforhouse.org. Good luck to both candidates! Comment By Adam
Monday, May 12, 2008 @ 12:18 PM
Thanks Sisyphsus. Actually from what I remember since I was in the same class, the Leadership Boise Presidential election results for the class were disputed. Kevin ran against Brian who had teamed up with another candidate. LB does not have detailed election rules but if you think about it, Kevin versus a dual ticket makes for a certain defeat in a popularity contest of a 50 person class. Without the dual ticket, my belief is that the outcome would have been different. From my understanding, after the election, the leader of the program actually called Kevin to apologize about how the election was run. Since the election had already happened, Kevin was gracious to Brian and ceded the election for the sake of the class. So, the LB election is hardly an indicator. In the end, everyone should know that both candidates would serve this district well. My hopes are that everyone does take the time to look at each of their stances on key initiatives, then make their decision. Comment By Joe
Monday, May 12, 2008 @ 2:46 PM
Joe, thanks for the clarification. Kevin's gracious acquiescence is very instructive. Comment By Leo A. Geis
Monday, May 12, 2008 @ 5:45 PM
I wish McGowan was living and running out in Star or beyond - he's my type of "R" and he'd get my vote. Bill - don't stop your vibe on home rule...you are completely correct and unless it changes it is going to choke the Treasure Valley, IF and CDA to certain death. IP Comment By Interested Party
Tuesday, May 13, 2008 @ 9:20 AM
Given this latest HP deal (I-Div in Boise's demise), and the increasing pressure on the Fed to raise i-rates to prop-up the dollar (& sure death to Micron's ops in the US) I can hear the 2 trains' whistles blowing. (it's not a passing Doppler effect) ...the big Q: will the people of Idaho decide they've had enough? or will they just continue in their passive, obedient ways? Comment By Bill
Tuesday, May 13, 2008 @ 1:33 PM
The residents of Boise's District 19 will be well-served by either Kevin or Brian. Kevin's deep involvement in our community since his relocation here a relatively short time ago is impressive, and as a moderate Republican would, I expect, represent the North End fairly. Brian's great work for the minority party and his long-time efforts on behalf of our citizenry demonstrate his capacity for hard work and vision. The conundrum of whom to support is left for those of us who are proud to call both men friends. My hope is that this is one race that will center, for a change, on meaningful issues and the candidates' differences in approach rather than which name is followed by "D" and which by "R". Regarding the Leadership Boise program, as a member of the '04-05 class I agree with Rick's evaluation: Even after having lived in Boise for several years I was exposed to aspects of our community which I found enlightening and educational. The program ignited a curiosity in me about topics I'd not explored and created friendships and business contacts that have already proven valuable and will no doubt last for years. Comment By Kenn Lamson
Thursday, May 15, 2008 @ 7:24 AM
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