2009 Way to Go Pinnacle Award Winner
Pinnacle Award December 2009
The Fernwell Building, a voluntary worksite, has been a participating CTR worksite for nearly nine years. Centered in downtown Spokane, the owner Tom Power and ETC, Holly Coleman took it upon themselves to research secure bicycle parking for not only the employees and tenants in their building but for other businesses to utilize in the downtown area.
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2009 Way to Go Pinnacle Award Winner
Pinnacle Award December 2009
The City of Spokane – City Hall has consistently maintained a well-rounded CTR program. The many benefits the nearly 400 employees enjoy are facility showers, lockers, bike racks, an internal guaranteed ride home program, compressed work week schedules, flex time and teleworking opportunities. A CTR presentation at new hire orientation informs new employees of the CTR program and also conveys the employer’s support while encouraging them to find a commute alternative to get to work.
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2009 Way to Go Pinnacle Award Winner
Pinnacle Award December 2009
Washington Sate Department of L & I has had a solid CTR program since 1993. The success of this worksite is a balanced mix of ETC support and enthusiasm, a supportive CTR committee, and sincere management support. With nearly 100 employees and limited parking, ETC, Nadine Grady takes every opportunity to promote commute alternatives to employees. Every month with the help of her three member CTR committee, Nadine changes promotional efforts by hanging new and creative flyers, sending email messages and recognizing employees who actively participate.
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Ed McEntire
All Star Coach December 2009
With over 2,000 employees and a large campus to cover, Ed McEntire, Employee Transportation Coordinator for Eastern Washington University, recognizes his CTR participants and gives incentives that continue to encourage them to participate.
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Sarah Coats
Most Valuable Commuter December 2009
Between hating to drive in the winter and having multiple car problems Sarah Coats, Spare Parts Assistant for FLSmidth Rahco, decided to give the bus a try. It worked so well for her and she enjoyed it so much that she decided to get rid of her car. She now rides the bus to work four days a week and works a compress work schedule.
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Frank Johnson
Most Valuable Commuter November 2009
With a 7 ½ mile commute, Frank Johnson, Software Systems Developer for Avista Corporation, gets his exercise for the day during his commute by bicycling or running to work. About a 1 ½ years ago, both his cars died and with two kids in college and one getting married, he and his wife decided to see if they could go without a car.
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John Morris
Most Valuable Commuter October 2009
Carpooling with three other coworkers daily for 3½ years and working a compressed work schedule, John Morris, Assistant Project Engineer for WA State Department of Transportation, wouldn’t consider driving alone again.
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Nadine Grady
All Star Coach September 2009
With nearly 100 employees, Nadine Grady, ETC and Industrial Hygienist for WA State Department of L & I, sets an outstanding example for employees to follow. Riding the bus 5 days a week, year round, she also plans her field inspections for work around the bus schedule. To get some extra exercise into her schedule, she has the bus drop her off about ½ mile away from her worksite and walks the rest of the way to work.
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Clara Christy
Most Valuable Commuter September 2009
Over 40 years ago, Clara Christy, Customer Service Specialist for WA State Department of L & I, began riding the bus to work because parking was so expensive in the downtown area. When Clara started working for L & I 15 years ago, she was thrilled there were no parking fees and she began driving to work. Quickly realizing how stressful it was to drive and not liking to drive on the freeway, she started riding the bus again.
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Tim Ice
Most Valuable Commuter August 2009
A fellow carpenter and bicyclist encouraged Tim Ice, Carpenter and Supervisor at Sacred Heart Medical Center, to ride his bicycle to work. Loving to ride when he was younger, Tim gave it a try. An avid bicyclist, Tim bikes to work 5 days a week and during the winter months he carpools with a neighbor.
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Bev Doty
Most Valuable Commuter July 2009
Hesitant to give up her car, Bev Doty, Senior Secretary at WA State Department of Transportation was convinced to join a carpool over 3 years ago by a previous Most Valuable Commuter. Carpooling with men, also all engineers, Bev says there’s not much girl talk, but she loves listening to them talk. She gets updated about work projects, is now a huge Zags fan and has become good friends with all of them.
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Emily Laughlin
All Star Coach June 2009
As the ETC for three years, Emily Laughlin, Site Staffing Specialist at Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield, continually strives to improve their already successful CTR program. Carpooling with her husband, teleworking occasionally and previously vanpooling to work, Emily is an advocate for promoting commute alternatives to the 380 employees at Premera Blue Cross.
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Jon Hansen
Most Valuable Commuter June 2009
With a two mile commute, Jon Hansen, IT Specialist for the WA State Department of Transportation, began walking to work over 10 years ago. Walking five days a week, all year around, the only thing that stops Jon is if it’s too slushy outside. Rain, snow and ice don’t deter him.
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Dori Lee-Bradley
Most Valuable Commuter May 2009
For the past 15 years, Dori Lee-Bradley, Medical Technologist for Sacred Hear Medical Center has been either vanpooling or carpooling to work. She’s been on 3 different vanpools and has been with her current vanpool for the last 16 months. With a 13-mile one way commute, Dori vanpools five days a week. She initially started vanpooling to save money, but also enjoys the fact that she is helping the environment and putting less miles on her car. Not being able to stop and shop has also saved her money over the years.
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Ashley Schilling
Most Valuable Commuter April 2009
Quickly realizing how much money she saves on gas, car payments, insurance and maintenance, Ashley Schilling, Customer Service Representative for Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield, made the decision not to purchase a car. Carpooling 5 days a week and weekends too, Ashley goes above and beyond to make carpooling work for her. When she began carpooling three years ago, she would arrive 1½ hours before her shift started. With a recent shift change, she now arrives only an hour earlier. Utilizing her free time, she reads a good book and relaxes before her busy day begins.
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Kathy Stroder
All Star Coach March 2009
When becoming the ETC over two years ago, Kathy Stroder, Transcriptionist for Witherspoon, Kelley, Davenport & Toole, P.S. had 5 or 6 CTR participants in the CTR program. As a voluntary worksite with 37 staff, Kathy’s enthusiasm and dedication has been instrumental in quadrupling participation at her worksite.
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Brian Gregory
Most Valuable Commuter March 2009
Originally from California, Brian Gregory, Avionics Technician for WA Air National Guard, became the primary driver of his vanpool this winter when the regular driver had scheduling conflicts. With limited driving experience in the snow, Brian’s dedication to the vanpool motivated him to take the challenge. Crediting STA for the training, he was able to recognize hazards and use defensive driving procedures that kept his vanpool accident free.
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Teri Fisher
Most Valuable Commuter February 2009
Only having one car and her husband needing it for work, Teri Fisher, Front Desk Receptionist for the City of Spokane began riding the bus over 23 years ago. Riding the bus to work five days a week, she finds it convenient and easy. With a 12-mile commute, Teri doesn’t like the hassle of driving and traffic. In addition to riding the bus to work, she frequently takes the bus to the mall and to run errands.
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Sharma Meckelson
Most Valuable Commuter January 2009
With a 28 mile one-way commute, Sharm Meckelson, Designer/Trainer at Pitney Bowes carpools to work 5 days a week. When conducting training classes at Pitney Bowes, Sharma makes a point to talk about her commute and ask questions related to commuting. Generating the conversation has helped encourage other employees to give it a try. It also helped Sharma find her first carpool partner 7 years ago.
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2008 Way to Go Awards
Pinnacle Award December 2008
Fairchild Air Force Base and ETC, Will Worrall received one of three coveted 2008 Pinnacle Awards at the Way to Go Awards Ceremony on January 29 at the Davenport Hotel. Will’s passion and commitment continues to grow Fairchild’s already successful CTR program. Participating in all countywide events, his promotional efforts resulted in 103 new participants in 2008. In May, Will heavily promoted Bike to Work Week. Bicycling to work 4 days with a 13 mile commute and working a compressed work schedule, Will set an outstanding example for employees to follow. Twenty-one other employees registered in Bike to Work Week which placed Fairchild in the top four for the entire event!
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2008 Way to Go Awards
Pinnacle Award December 2008
Spokane County and ETC, Don McDowell received one of three coveted 2008 Pinnacle Awards at the Way to Go Awards Ceremony on January 29 at the Davenport Hotel. Spokane County has a solid CTR program and has been a Commute Trip Reduction leader since 1993. A strong commitment to parking management strategies, work schedule options and offering subsidies for all commute modes has helped to increased commute alternative users at this large worksite. The success of this worksite is a balanced mix of ETC support and enthusiasm, a supportive CTR committee, and sincere management support.
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2008 Way to Go Awards
Pinnacle Award December 2008
Rings and Things and ETC, Selina Shehan received one of three coveted 2008 Pinnacle Awards at the Way to Go Awards Ceremony on January 29 at the Davenport Hotel. A voluntary worksite, Rings and Things has been a participating worksite for over eight years. Seeing the opportunity to help the community by reducing trips through the CTR program and by selecting an ETC who believed in the program 100% and who receives 100% support from management are keys to Rings and Things success.
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2008 Way to Go Awards
All Star Team Award December 2008
Honeywell Electronic Materials CTR committee including ETC, Tim Gossler received the coveted 2008 All Star Team Award at the Way to Go Awards Ceremony on January 29 at the Davenport Hotel.
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Derek Marquez
All Star Coach December 2008
When becoming ETC over a year ago for the City of Airway Heights, Derek Marquez made it his goal to get a CTR budget. Creating a presentation and pitching it to City Council was a little unnerving, but it was something he felt would really benefit the CTR program. His effective and enthusiastic presentation successfully got him a $1,500 yearly budget.
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Russ Volquardsen
Most Valuable Commuter December 2008
With a 14½ mile commute, Russ Volquardsen, Insurance Agent and Customer Service Agent at Safeco Insurance, rides the bus daily. Before working at Safeco, Russ rode the bus for over 5 years. When starting at Safeco, he didn’t hesitate to find out what bus route would work best for him. A dedicated bus rider, Russ got his wife, son and daughter to start riding the bus. Finding it easy and convenient, they frequently go shopping and go to other fun things by riding the bus. With the whole family riding the bus, they were also able to downsize to one car.
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Howard Hamby
Most Valuable Commuter November 2008
With the realization that he was part of the problem with empty buses, Howard Hamby, Pavement Manager for Spokane County, started riding the bus daily nearly a year ago, in addition to already working a compressed work schedule. Being hit by a car a few years ago, but still loving to ride, Howard decided to combine the two for his commute. With a 10 mile commute, Howard rides his bicycle about 3 miles to the park and ride then finishes his commute on the bus. During the winter months, he’s a dedicated bus rider.
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Jeremiah Donier
Most Valuable Commuter October 2008
As a Graphic Designer at Goodwill Industries, Jeremiah Donier supported CTR when he first started working there a year and a half ago by creating a CTR logo for ETC, Diana Smith. An avid bus rider for six years, Jeremiah knew the bus wasn’t the best option for him anymore. Overcoming challenges so he and his wife could carpool to work, they changed their daughter’s daycare center. Enjoying more time with his wife and daughter, Jeremiah carpools 5 days a week to work. Going the extra distance, when schedules don’t work to carpool, Jeremiah and is daughter ride the bus to work taking them up to 30 minutes longer.
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Tim Gossler
All Star Coach September 2008
With 400 employees and a 5-mile commute, Tim Gossler, ETC and Waste Water Operator at Honeywell, sets a shining example for employees to follow by riding his bicycle to work and riding the bus during the winter months. Every month during the summer, Tim goes the extra distance and plans a bike excursion for employees. The ride helps employees get comfortable riding their bike and he is hoping will help them make a change to riding their bicycle to work.
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Larry Neill
Most Valuable Commuter September 2008
Larry Neill, House Keeper at St. Lukes Rehabilitation Institute has been riding the bus his whole life. With over 43 years at St. Lukes, he is a excellent example for employees to follow. Larry always thought it would be easier to let someone else do the driving, so he never pursued getting his license and he has never owned a car. Riding the bus makes him feel more secure and he loves watching the world go by him as he rides on the bus.
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Chuck Vensel
Most Valuable Commuter August 2008
From April – September, you can see Chuck Vensel, Engineering Documentation Manager at ASC Machine Tools, riding his bicycle to work. And during the off months, he rides the bus to work. With a 6 ½ mile commute, Chuck has been bicycling to work for 15 years. His bicycling commute takes him about 25 minutes in the morning. If Chuck were to drive alone it would take him about 20 minutes with traffic and lights. “There isn’t much difference in time,” Chuck simply stated. “I can take residential roads and short cuts that you can’t take with a car.”
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Catherine Bowden
Most Valuable Commuter July 2008
Since 1982 during college, Catherine Bowden, Accounting Analyst at Avista Corporation, started using commute alternatives. Continuing with her first job in the Seattle area, Catherine rode the bus to work. After moving to Spokane, she began carpooling with her husband and riding the bus when they had scheduling conflicts. Her husband, an avid bicyclist, encouraged her to start bicycling to work a few years ago. Now during the summer months, Catherine rides about 3 times per week.
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Will Worrall
All Star Coach June 2008
As an Environmental Engineer and ETC for nearly 2,900 employees, Will Worrall at Fairchild Air Force Base, is continuing to strengthen and grow his participation numbers in their already successful CTR program. Since becoming the ETC less than a year ago, he has coordinated and facilitated the start up of 5 new vanpools, with a total of 14 vanpools at FAFB now. Bus ridership has also tripled!
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Jaida Belle
Most Valuable Commuter June 2008
With a 3-mile commute, walking or rolling blade to work is great exercise for Jaida Belle, Document Controls Specialist at General Dynamics Itronix Corporation. About two years ago, she wanted to squeeze exercise into a go-go schedule and at the same time start training for a ½ Iron Man contest. Then, with a 25-mile commute she would ride her bicycle or roller blade to work.
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Janice Mancke
Most Valuable Commuter May 2008
Six years ago, Janice Mancke, Customer Care Professional at Safeco Insurance, had her car break down and not having the money to fix it, she started riding the bus daily. When she had enough money to fix it, she compared the cost of the car, the repair, insurance and maintenance, to a $33 bus pass. The bus pass won and Janice doesn’t own a car any more.
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Bob LaShaw
Most Valuable Commuter April 2008
With a 25-mile commute, Bob LaShaw, Crew Leader at ASC Machine Tools, has been carpooling with his wife daily for 5 years. And, before that they carpooled on and off for about 15 years. “I don’t see any reason to run two cars to town, if I don’t have to,” said Bob. “I save wear and tear on my car, save money on gas and it helps the environment.”
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Don McDowell
All Star Coach March 2008
As the Quality Improvement Coordinator and ETC for 10 years, Don McDowell, Spokane County, is a huge advocate of commute alternatives. Unable to ride the bus any more because of a move and schedule change, Don still walks the talk by riding the bus and walking to offsite meetings, in addition to working a compressed work schedule.
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Kathy Garrity
Most Valuable Commuter March 2008
For almost four years, Kathy Garrity, Medical Transcriptionist for Sacred Heart Medical Center, has been teleworking and eliminating her five mile commute to work. Working at home has many benefits for Kathy, including keeping the heat at the temperature she likes, playing the music she likes and having her work station exactly the way she likes. She also enjoys more time to herself by not having to drive to and from work. In addition, she doesn’t have to spend as much money on her wardrobe, since she is not in the office.
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Kelly Pinkerton
Most Valuable Commuter February 2008
As the vanpool driver, Kelly Pinkerton, Total Loss Claims Assistant for Safeco Insurance, has been enjoying her commute to work daily for four years. As the driver, Kelly also helps with the daily log and scheduling the maintenance on the van. With a 12-mile one-way commute and 5 employees in her vanpool, she is always looking and seeking out other employees to join.
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Dan Finn
Most Valuable Commuter January 2008
With a 23-mile one way commute to work, Dan Finn, Human Services Coordinator for Spokane County, began carpooling with his wife 12 years ago. Going the extra distance and to make it easier on his wife, he has her drop him off downtown and he walks up to his office on 8th Avenue. Overcoming challenges with frequent offsite meetings, Dan plans ahead to carpool with other employees or walk to meetings.
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2007 Way to Go Awards
Pinnacle Award Winner December 2007
General Dynamics Itronix Corporation and ETC, Lois Kirk received one of three coveted 2007 Pinnacle Awards at the Way to Go Awards Ceremony on January 16 at the Davenport Hotel. Lois dedication and enthusiasm continues to grow their worksites successful CTR program. The many benefits the over 500 employees enjoy are facility showers, personal lockers, locked bike storage, internal guaranteed ride home program, reserved parking for carpoolers on all sides of the building and bus subsidies. Being located near the Centennial Trail is an added benefit for over 15 employees who bicycle and walk to work.
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2007 Way to Go Awards
Pinnacle Award Winner December 2007
Northwest Orthopaedic Specialists and ETC, Dawn Steinmetz received one of three coveted 2007 Pinnacle Awards at the Way to Go Awards Ceremony on January 16 at the Davenport Hotel. Northwest Orthopaedic Specialists has a successful and solid CTR program that has only been in place for one and half years. Dawn enthusiastically promotes their CTR program benefits to over 100 employees. CTR benefits include an in-house guaranteed ride home program, reduced parking fees for carpoolers, showers, lockers and strong management support.
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2007 Way to Go Awards
Pinnacle Award Winner December 2007
Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency and ETC Margee Chambers received one of three coveted 2007 Pinnacle Awards at the Way to Go Awards Ceremony on January 16 at the Davenport Hotel. Voluntarily promoting CTR for over three years and previously under the Spokane County program, Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency is a true advocate for cleaner air!
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2007 Way to Go Awards
All Star Team Award Winner December 2007
Zak Designs, Inc. CTR committee including ETC, Sharon Polello received the coveted All Star Team Award at the Way to Go Awards Ceremony on January 16 at the Davenport Hotel. Fifteen volunteers work hard to promote commute alternatives at Zak Designs, Inc. A majority of the members have overcome challenges and "walk their talk", which is a tremendous advantage in planning and promoting commute trip reduction activities.
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Lois Kirk
All Star Coach December 2007
As the ETC for two years, Lois Kirk continues to grow the CTR program at General Dynamics Itronix. Combining two facilities together has made promoting CTR much easier and has increased awareness among employees. With over 500 employees, her CTR program elements include preferred carpool parking on each side of the building, bus subsidies, lockers, showers, an internal Guaranteed Ride Home program, various monthly incentives and being located near the Centennial Trail are keys to her success.
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Ken Knutson
Most Valuable Commuter December 2007
In his new position as Project Manager for the City of Spokane Valley, Ken Knutson is looking for a carpool partner and with only a 3 mile commute he is excited to ride his bicycle to work this summer. A previous employee of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), Ken rode the bus to work almost daily for 6 years with an 11 mile one-way commute
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Tim Kenagy
Most Valuable Commuter November 2007
Utilizing the Centennial Trail for his 15 mile one-way commute, Tim Kenagy, Technical Writer for General Dynamics Itronix, rides his bicycle to work 3 to 4 days a week March through November. An executive who rode his bicycle to work from Spangle encouraged and motivated Tim to start riding. His favorite time to ride is during the summer months at 6 am when the sun is just rising.
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Tracy Gonser
Most Valuable Commuter October 2007
Looking for ways to save money, in addition to helping the environment, Tracy Gonser, Unit Manager for Safeco Insurance, started carpooling with her husband every day. To take it a step further, they sold one of their cars and are now a one car family. Even though its a short distance to work, she really enjoys the extra time with her husband. Giving back to the community by reducing air pollution and traffic congestion are very rewarding to Tracy.
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Maureen McElroy
All Star Coach September 2007
Its rare when you hear someone doesnt own a car or they didnt get their drivers license until they were 25. Such is the case with Maureen McElroy, ETC at West Corporation downtown. And, the only reason she got her license was in case she had an emergency with her daughter. Riding the bus four days a week and walking one day, Maureen sets an outstanding example for her nearly 500 employees.
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Cary Fry
Most Valuable Commuter September 2007
Living in Brazil for a few years, Cary Fry, Credit Officer for Northwest Farm Credit Services chose riding the bus as his best transportation option. When moving to Liberty Lake, his uncle, an avid bus rider, introduced him to the bus system here. Now a dedicated bus rider, Cary rides the bus an average of 3 days a week.
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Josh Wolfe
Most Valuable Commuter August 2007
For over six years, Josh Wolfe, Surgical Technologist for Sacred Heart Medical Center has been riding his bicycle to work. From March October, on a compressed work schedule, Josh rides four days a week and during the winter months he rides as often as weather permits. Before riding his bike, Josh walked to work. Moving a little further out he knew walking wouldnt be an option and thought it would be a great opportunity to start riding his bicycle.
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Bob Westby
Most Valuable Commuter July 2007
Not feeling right if hes not carpooling, Bob Westby, Transportation Engineer for Washington State Department of Transportation has been a dedicated carpooler for over 15 year. With a compressed work schedule and carpooling at least three times a week, Bob enjoys many benefits. Saving money being top on his list, he also enjoys the social aspect of carpooling.
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Dawn Steinmetz
All Star Coach June 2007
As the Controller and ETC for Northwest Orthopaedic Specialists, Dawn Steinmetz has a solid CTR program that has only been in place for a year. With an in-house guaranteed ride home program, reduced parking fees for carpoolers, showers, lockers and strong management support, her program continues to flourish and grow. Dawns enthusiasm and dedication are keys to her success!
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Sister Rosalie Locati
Most Valuable Commuter June 2007
Walking since 2001, Sister Rosalie Locati, Director of Mission and Values at Sacred Heart Medical Center, takes a longer route because its good for her health. In 2003, she had a knee replacement and couldnt walk to work for about 6 months. Although her knee continues to trouble her, she is still committed to walking to work and knows it will help her knee and health.
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Ron Hess
Most Valuable Commuter May 2007
Riding the bus to work, Ron Hess, Assistant Director of Plant Operations for Eastern Washington University, enjoys relaxing, listening to weather and news and talking with others on the bus. A former MVC, Ron walked to work for over 40 years before riding the bus.
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Terri Turner
Most Valuable Commuter April 2007
Between parking costs and gas, Terri Turner a Recovery Room Nurse for Northwest Orthopaedic Specialists, saves over $75 a week by carpooling to work. About 18 months ago, Terris husband negotiated a schedule change so he could carpool with his wife. Carpooling every day with a 20 minute commute, they both enjoy less wear and tear on their cars and the extra time they get to spend together.
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John Rodriguez
All Star Coach March 2007
An ETC for over ten years, John Rodriguez from Washington State DSHS DCS, has been carpooling for five years, five days a week. With 113 employees, John sets an outstanding example for his employees to follow. Participating in all countywide campaigns, hanging posters and sending e-mails, 70 percent of the staff complete there on-line commute calendar.
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Greg Taylor
Most Valuable Commuter March 2007
Living 33 miles away, Greg Taylor, Senior Umbrella Underwriter for Safeco Insurance was concerned with a lengthy commute when he was offered a job at Safeco. Not willing to drive an hour each way to work or sell his home and move closer, Greg successfully negotiated working from home. With a dedicated phone and DSL line, he has only received two pieces of mail in the last six months and has only gone into the Liberty Lake office three times.
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Mike Berube
Most Valuable Commuter February 2007
An Information Technology Specialist, Mike Berube from Fairchild Air Force Base has been vanpooling to work for five years. The Most Valuable Commuter from last year, Chris Corativo, recruited Mike to his vanpool. When the vanpool got to full, Mike recruited additional riders and started his own vanpool. As the primary driver, he enjoys driving and vanpools to work at least four days a week and usually five.
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Karie O'Brien
Most Valuable Commuter January 2007
A registered nurse in the operating room at Valley Hospital & Medical Center, Karie OBrien goes above and beyond to make carpooling work for her. When an employee came to Karie and told her she couldnt get to work because she was having car troubles, Karie stepped up to help. Once she started carpooling she realized the many benefits to carpooling including saving money, enjoying a friendship with her co-worker, someone to talk to during her commute and her carpool partner treating her with one of her famous coffees every morning.
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Margee Chambers
All Star Coach December 2006
A true advocate for clean air, Margee Chambers, ETC for Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency, coordinates her daycare schedule so she and her 2-year old son can ride the bus home. Getting the whole family involved, Margee and her husband also only own one car.
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Sharon Simons
Most Valuable Commuter December 2006
An advocate of Public Transportation, Sharon Simons, Administrative Receptionist for Spokane Transit has been riding the bus for 39 years. She started riding the bus in the fall of 1968, when it cost a quarter to ride. She said she would buy a roll of quarters and they lasted about a month. The buses back then were gold and white with a manual gear shift, and leather seats, reminisced Sharon. On occasion, Sharon also walks to and from work. Its common to see Sharon walking or riding the bus on her days off as well.
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Larry Sullivan
Most Valuable Commuter November 2006
Can you imagine a 20-mile commute in the dark on your bicycle? Larry Sullivan, a registered nurse at Valley Hospital & Medical Center began riding his bicycle to work four years ago, March November, at least 2 or 3 times a week and even more during the summer months. Working 12-hour shifts on a compressed work schedule, Larry rides in the dark for half the year.
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Pam Cosseboom
Most Valuable Commuter October 2006
Moving to Post Falls ten years ago, Pam Cosseboom, Patient Access Representative for Deaconess Medical Center, began using commute alternatives. For the past two years, Pam has been carpooling with her husband. And, for eight years before carpooling, she rode the bus and even gave vanpooling a try for three months.
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Selina Shehan
All Star Coach September 2006
Walking her talk, Selina Shehan, ETC, for Rings and Things, sets an outstanding example for her employees to follow. An already dedicated walker, Selinas priority for buying a new home recently was making sure it was within walking distance to work. Voluntarily promoting CTR at their worksite, the owners support plays a key role in the success of the CTR program. Of the 89 employees at Rings & Things, 60 regularly use a commute alternative to get to work including the owners.
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Dorothy Smith
Most Valuable Commuter September 2006
Five days a week for over ten years, Dorothy Smith from Sacred Heart Medical Center has been riding the bus. When she began working weekends, the bus schedule didnt accommodate her work schedule. She persevered and after chatting with the CEO, her schedule was changed to allow her to continue riding the bus.
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Ray Smith
Most Valuable Commuter August 2006
Since March of 2003, Ray Smith from West Corporation, has been riding his bicycle to work all year round. With studded snow tires for his bicycle, the only thing that stops him is when the ice gets too bad. From his home or when he stays to care for his disabled sister, he averages about 18 miles one-way each day. Last year, Ray put approximately 53,000 miles on his bicycle. Not only using his bicycle to get to work, Ray uses it on the weekends for leisure too.
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Cy Parker
Most Valuable Commuter July 2006
For nearly ten years, Cy Parker from EWU/WSU Riverpoint Campus, has been using commute alternatives. Currently carpooling at least three days a week, Cy feels Its the right thing to do. As a CTR committee member, she believes if she is going to encourage others to use commute alternatives then she must use one herself.
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Tim Willoughby
All Star Coach June 2006
Promoting commute trip reduction to nearly 150 employees, Tim Willoughby, Adjudicator Supervisor and ETC for Washington State ESD Telecenter, successfully started his first vanpool this spring. First hearing that STA had new vans, Tim decided to try and get one started. Through persistency and communication through e-mails, Tim recruited 12 employees to begin vanpooling.
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Wendy Linsday
Most Valuable Commuter June 2006
For nearly two years, Wendy Linsday, Medical Record Clerk for Valley Hospital and Medical Center, has been walking to work. Her husband who also walks to work, encouraged her to give it a try when she started working at Valley Hospital. An on-call employee, Wendy doesnt even think about driving to work. When working night shifts, Wendy carpools home with a fellow co-worker so she can still walk to work.
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Albert LePage
Most Valuable Commuter May 2006
When looking for a new home eight years ago, Albert LePage, Air Quality Specialist for Spokane County Air Pollution Control Authority, made it a priority to live close to work so he could ride the bus. I didnt like driving on the freeway and when I got home from work I would be agitated, explained Albert. Now I enjoy riding the bus every day.
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Daryl Howe
Most Valuable Commuter April 2006
Working a compressed work schedule of 4-10s, Daryl Howe, Documentation Specialist for Hollister-Stier enjoys carpooling with her husband four days a week. With only one four-wheel drive vehicle and a 31-mile commute, Daryl began carpooling during the winter months eight years ago. After the winter, it just made sense for us to continue carpooling, smiled Daryl.
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Liz Kennett
All Star Coach March 2006
A true advocate for commute alternatives, Liz Kennett, Employee Transportation Coordinator for Valley Hospital & Medical Center, started carpooling when she was in High School, her first job she rode her bicycle daily and with previous jobs, Liz also rode the bus. Currently working two days a week, Liz carpools as often as she can with her daughter and also carpools to offsite meetings.
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Connie Kline
Most Valuable Commuter March 2006
With a 54 mile one-way commute, Connie Kline, Levy Specialist, was thrilled when teleworking became an option for her about a year ago. Working a compressed work schedule, Connie was gone from home for at least 12 hours a day. Driving an hour, toward the sun in the summer and driving in the dark in the winter, made her commute very difficult.
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Chris Corativo
Most Valuable Commuter February 2006
In the 28 years of working for Fairchild Air Force Base, Chris Corativo has always used a commute alternative. For the past three years, Chris has been vanpooling and is also the primary driver. With a 24-mile one way trip, he stops at two area park and ride lots to pick up employees. Chris has always viewed using commute alternatives as the right thing to do.
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Dean Smith
Most Valuable Commuter January 2006
As the primary driver, Dean Smith, Hazardous Materials Engineer for Washington State Department of Transportation Eastern Region, has been a dedicated carpooler for over six years. Learning about the program through his Employee Transportation Coordinator (ETC), Jana Augenstine, Dean decided to ask a co-worker who moved into his neighborhood to carpool.
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All Star Team December 2005
The 5-member CTR Committee from Veterans Affairs Medical Center was selected to receive the All Star Team award, given to one outstanding worksite committee each year. This volunteer committee works hard to promote commute alternatives at their diverse and challenging worksite. All of the members walk their talk, which is a tremendous advantage in planning and promoting trip reduction activities. With over 600 employees and a large campus, this CTR committee is an invaluable asset to Mark Lidbeck, ETC.
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Pinnacle Award December 2005
The first Pinnacle Award recipient, Moss Adams LLC, a Commuter Solutions voluntary worksite, has been a participating worksite since the voluntary program began in 1997. With strong management support, they continually participate in countywide promotions, attend training classes and have successfully kept their program strong.
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Pinnacle Award December 2005
The second Pinnacle Award Winner, Pitney Bowes, whose ETC, Erica Markham continues to grow their CTR program through her dedication and persistence. With employees on many different shifts, this doesnt stop Erica from promoting the benefits of commute alternatives to her 425 employees. With a well-rounded CTR program that includes preferred parking for carpoolers, bus subsidies, showers, covered bicycle racks, CTR intranet web page, new hire orientation and a budget for incentives, it all adds up to a recipe for success.
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Pinnacle Award December 2005
The third Pinnacle Award Winner, Safeco Insurance, has consistently maintained a well-rounded CTR program. With management support, the ETC, Helen Peterson promotes their CTR program in all new hire orientations, provides bus and vanpool subsidies, preferential parking and a guaranteed ride home program. To take advantage of their CTR benefits and preferential parking, employees must register and fill out their on-line calendar. With 43 designated preferential parking spaces near the entrance, its a great incentive for employees.
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Mark Lidbeck
All Star Coach December 2005
As Employee Transportation Coordinator for eleven years and the Safety Specialist for the VA Medical Center, Mark Lidbeck knows everyone at his workplace. Mark is well known for frequently asking employees about their commute and if he can help them.
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Rebecca Arthur
Most Valuable Commuter December 2005
When her car broke down six years ago, Rebecca Arthur, Medical Records Clerk for Sacred Heart Medical Center, began riding the bus. She enjoys saving money on gas, less wear and tear on her car and reaps the benefit of the combined bus subsidy from SHMC and STA.
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Mike Basinger
Most Valuable Commuter November 2005
When it became too dark and cold to ride his bicycle, Mike Basinger, Associate Planner for the City of Spokane Valley, joined a four person carpool. For approximately eight months out of the year, Mike bicycles from the Audubon area down to the plaza, catches the bus and goes to the Valley Transit Center, then finishes his commute on his bicycle.
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Crystal Alford
Most Valuable Commuter October 2005
For nearly ten years, Crystal Alford, Air Quality Specialist/Inspector for SCAPCA has been carpooling to work. Juggling child care, school activities and work schedules, Crystal goes above and beyond to make carpooling a priority. Meeting her carpool partner at the Mirabeau Park & Ride allows both of them to take the bus home, if the other has an emergency.
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Erica Markham
All Star Coach September 2005
Setting a positive example for employees to follow, Erica Markham, Employee Transportation Coordinator for Pitney Bowes, walks her talk by carpooling to work daily.
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Connie Jack
Most Valuable Commuter September 2005
Using commute alternatives has been a way of life for Connie Jack, Secretary for Energy Management for Eastern Washington University, for 16 years. A dedicated bus rider for the past 7 years, Connie feels its important to the environment to do her part and it also helps to conserve energy. Connies philosophy is If you dont try it, it doesnt happen. One trip makes a difference.
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Ross Kelley
Most Valuable Commuter August 2005
As the Spokane County Engineer, Ross Kelley really puts forth an effort to make bicycling work for him. With early morning and late evening meetings, Ross manages to ride his bicycle to work between 10-15 times each month during the summer months and approximately 60 times over the course of the year. With easier access on his bicycle and no parking hassles, Ross rides his bicycle to different construction sites throughout Spokane County.
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Gion Gibson
Most Valuable Commuter July 2005
For over eleven years, Gion Gibson, Materials Engineer for Washington State Department of Transportation, has been carpooling to work daily with two or three carpool partners. Switching drivers every week, unless they have appointments, they never have to hassle with exchanging money. With an eleven mile one way commute, Gion enjoys the money he saves by carpooling.
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Grace Elverum
All Star Coach June 2005
Grace has been the designated ETC for DSHS-North CSO for almost 2 years. She happily volunteered to fill the position after the former ETCs workload increased and was no longer able to fulfill the obligations of ETC.
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Jennifer Shaver
Most Valuable Commuter June 2005
Jennifer used to drive alone to work until one day, her car broke down and she just happened to notice the Cash In On MyCommute.org campaign poster. She went to her ETC to ask for more information on how to participate and to register for the online calendar. Liz Kennet, ETC for Valley Hospital, helped her fill out her calendar and Jennifer was the lucky winner of a cash card the very first month she participated!
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George Leppert
Most Valuable Commuter May 2005
George is the general repairman for 15 DSHS regional offices in Eastern Washington which means hes required to travel great distances to service these 15 worksites and is no stranger to long-distance driving.
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Fred Kayler
Most Valuable Commuter April 2005
Fred has been carpooling everyday for 21 years from his Spokane Valley home with up to 3 other Sacred Heart employees. They rotate driving and even schedule their workweek around the carpool schedule. Fellowship and socializing is what Fred enjoys the most about his choice of commute alternatives and has had the opportunity to share the ride with a lot of different employees over the years.
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Carol Nicholson
All Star Coach March 2005
Carol not only promotes commute alternatives at Triumph Composite Systems, Inc., which employs 300 employees, but also walks her talk by vanpooling approximately 4 days a week!
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Pat Kuhn
Most Valuable Commuter March 2005
Pat has been teleworking for 5 years and also works a compressed work schedule. Sacred Heart provides a computer and phone line and Pat receives all of her work through the telephone lines.
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Cathy Malzahn
Most Valuable Commuter February 2005
As the Human Resource Director for Spokane County, Cathy sets a great example for other employees by vanpooling an average of 3 days per week. Cathy has been riding in the vanpool for 5 years and truly enjoys the time it gives her to unwind and relax.
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Tom Calder
Most Valuable Commuter January 2005
With a 42 mile one-way trip from his home in Riverside, carpooling only made sense for Tom. Soon after he started working at EWU, he began looking for a carpool partner, and was he successful! Tom as been carpooling for 4 years, five days per week.
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Sharon Jones-Polello
All Star Coach December 2004
Even before taking on the responsibilities of ETC three years ago, Sharon Jones-Polello was a CTR committee member and set an exceptional example by walking her talk and carpooling to work. With a 29-mile one-way commute, Sharon has been carpooling for over 6 years and often has 3 or 4 riders.
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Marie Munden
Most Valuable Commuter December 2004
Can you imagine not owning a car? Maria Munden, a dedicated bus rider, has been car-free for over 22 years. When first moving to Spokane, her car broke down and she hated the traffic. Riding the bus was easy and convenient. She credits STA for giving her the ability to have a job by being able to ride the bus to work.
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Donna Shaffer
Most Valuable Commuter November 2004
The bus was easy and convenient when Donna Shaffer began riding six years ago when she lived in Cheney. She also saves on parking costs and has less wear and tear on her vehicle. After moving to Spokane a year and a half ago, she decided to give bicycling a try. She currently rides her bike about eight months out of the year and rides the bus the other four.
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Dolores Housam
Most Valuable Commuter October 2004
Carpooling five days a week with her husband, Dolores Housam eliminates nearly 2,400 drive alone miles and over 125 pounds of carbon monoxide from being emitted into our air each month. Saving money by buying less gas is what started Dolores carpooling over 13 years ago.
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Linda Williams
All Star Coach September 2004
With strong management support, Linda Williams markets many CTR benefits to over 800 employees including preferred parking, bike racks, showers, bus subsidies, a guaranteed ride home program, dry cleaning service, an on-site credit union, cafeteria, monthly prize drawings, flex schedules and an Avista owned hybrid vanpool that currently has 8 riders.
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Linda Griffiths
Most Valuable Commuter September 2004
With a rotating schedule between Valley Hospital and Deaconess Medical Center, Linda goes the extra distance to make riding the bus work for her. A ten-mile commute that normally takes 30 minute to drive, takes a 1 to 1 hours including walking to her bus stop and riding the bus. Linda says she doesnt mind the extra time it takes to get to work. It gives her a sense of community, its fun to people watch and it gives her time to relax. She also enjoys the opportunity to get some fresh air.
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Eric Skelton
Most Valuable Commuter August 2004
Eric Skelton, Director of SCAPCA, has been bicycling to work for 26 years, intermixed with riding the bus. Prior to SCAPCA, a couple of co-workers talked up the benefits and successfully convinced Eric to give it a try. And thats all it took. Eric began riding his bike to work daily.
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Sharon Sulzle
Most Valuable Commuter July 2004
With an eight and a half mile commute to work, Sharon Sulzle enjoys relaxing and visiting with her carpool partner. She readily admits she doesnt like driving and says it works perfect because her carpool partner loves to drive. Helping with gas money, Sharon and her carpool partner both enjoy the benefits of saving money.
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Ginny Bennett
All Star Coach June 2004
As the ETC for Washington Trust Bank for the last 7 years, Ginny leads by example. When she first moved to Spokane, she was carpooling with her husband and realized that the bus ran on the exact same route to their home. When they bought a new house, Ginny made sure it was located on a bus route she could use to commute to work.
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Roger Mohrlang
Most Valuable Commuter June 2004
An avid walker, Roger has walked faithfully to work, rain or shine, for 26 years. His biggest challenge is the ice in the winter so he just allows more time, walks slower and avoids inclines.
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Michelle Runnels
Most Valuable Commuter May 2004
Never feeling the need to get a drivers license, Michelle has taken the bus everywhere for 18 years. This includes trips to the mall, doctors appointments, even to the grocery store. She walks the 8 blocks to her bus stop, rides to the Plaza, then enjoys drinking coffee and reading the paper while she waits for her transfer to take her to work. In nice weather Michelle will walk from the Plaza to Sacred Heart Medical Center.
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Peggy Wolny
Most Valuable Commuter April 2004
The use of commute alternatives is not new to Peggy. When she lived in Seattle, she rode the bus everywhere she went. When gas prices soared last year, Peggy thought she would give carpooling a try maybe 2 to 3 times a month. But before she knew it, she realized that the company was nice to have on the way to work, it was convenient and she had less wear and tear on her car. Now, Peggy carpools nearly every day. Peggy shares the driving with her carpool partner who lives just down the street. They dont worry about exchanging money because they alternative driving their vehicles every other week. Both Peggy and her carpool partner are very flexible. In the event that either she or her carpool partner have to work late, they just communicate before and flex their schedules accordingly. Peggy feels that By being flexible, this arrangement works great for both of us.
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Ginny Donnelly
All Star Coach March 2004
Carpooling to work 5 day a week, Ginny Donnelly sets an outstanding example for her employees to follow. As ETC for nine and a half years, she enjoys interacting with the employees and encouraging them to use commute alternatives.
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Marji Evenson
Most Valuable Commuter March 2004
When her daughter became ill and needed care at home, Marji pitched the idea of working from home part-time. With management support, Marji set up her home office. Now working full-time at home for the past three years, she proves working from home is beneficial for her and her employer.
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Mike Anson
Most Valuable Commuter February 2004
As one of the primary drivers, Mike has been dedicated to vanpooling for over eleven years. Originating in Liberty Lake, this vanpool carries an average of nine riders each day. Carpooling for four years prior made it an easy transition for Mike to start vanpooling.
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Brenda Hutchins
Most Valuable Commuter January 2004
For over 11 years, Brenda Hutchins has been using commute alternatives to get to work, including carpooling, vanpooling and riding the bus. Currently, Brenda carpools with two other co-workers. She truly enjoys the friendships she's developed and loves to hear what the other departments are doing at her worksite. With a 10-mile commute, Brenda also enjoys saving money, less wear and tear on her car and helping our air quality.
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Helen Peterson
All Star Coach December 2003
Volunteering for the ETC job nearly a year ago, Helen Peterson's enthusiasm and creativity are showing results. Implementing an incentive program, Helen rewards employees with two jeans days for every 22 days they use a commute alternative.
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David Buxton
Most Valuable Commuter December 2003
With a bus stop near his home, David Buxton finds it very convenient to ride the bus to work every day. Commute alternatives are not new to David. For the past fourteen years, he's been riding the bus, carpooling or bicycling to work.
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Sharon Willoughby
Most Valuable Commuter November 2003
Sharon Willoughby began vanpooling her first day of work over two and half years ago. Living in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Sharon didn't want to put the miles and wear and tear on her brand new car. Parking costs and icy roads were also another big motivator.
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Tammie Roe
Most Valuable Commuter October 2003
With a 30-mile drive from Deer Park, Tammie Roe enjoys the company when carpooling daily with a friend who works at another downtown worksite. Taking turns driving each week, Tammy also finds her commute less stressful.
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Rick Bowell
All Star Coach September 2003
Starting a financial incentive program three years ago, Rick Bowell has watched his CTR program flourish with success. With limited transportation choices and located in a remote area, Rick subsidizes bus passes and carpools. As a result, Lakeland Villages survey results this year showed that 61 percent of his 564 employees use a commute alternative to driving alone.
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Steve Ringo
Most Valuable Commuter September 2003
With a 17-mile commute, Steve Ringo enjoys his time while riding the bus to work. On his morning trip, he brings a good book to read and in the evening, he is able to relax and take an afternoon nap. He is uplifted and inspired for the day by his reading time and his nap rejuvenates him for the afternoon.
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Patty Danner
Most Valuable Commuter August 2003
For more than 10 years, Patty Danner has been riding her bicycle to work on an average of four days per week, all year around. With a 3 mile commute, Patty enjoys the time she spends on her bicycle. Not only is it refreshing, it has great health benefits and helps the environment.
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Andre Wamsley
Most Valuable Commuter July 2003
Saving money on gas with less wear and tear on his car are just a few reasons why Andre Wamsley carpools to work everyday. With a 23 mile commute, sharing the ride with his wife allows him more quality time with her. They are able to talk more and it helps them wind down after work.
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Keith Vilhauer
All Star Coach June 2003
As ETC for three and half years, Keith Vilhauer enjoys helping employees find commute choices that benefit them and our community. Being ETC has been a good fit for Keith, as he has always been pro clean air and doing the right thing.
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Kathy Colier
Most Valuable Commuter June 2003
With a one and half mile commute, Kathy Colier has been walking to work daily, all year around for the past eight years. Before walking, she tried carpooling but found that her car wouldnt even warm up by the time she got to work. This was encouragement enough to give walking a try.
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Susan Brown
Most Valuable Commuter May 2003
Being hired in the winter and not wanting to drive up the Sunset Hill, motivated Susan Brown to ride the bus to work nearly three years ago. Living in Post Falls, Susan drives to the Liberty Lake Park and Ride lot where she catches the bus to the STA Plaza. Her dedication truly shines as she has a 20-minute lay over before catching another bus to get to work.
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Mariam Flock
Most Valuable Commuter April 2003
Carpooling at least 15 days during the month with her husband and neighbor, Mariam Flock helps eliminate nearly 1,600 drive alone miles and over 87 pounds of pollution from being emitted into our air each month.
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Chrystal Young
All Star Coach March 2003
Being located in a remote area with limited transportation choices and round the clock schedules, doesnt keep Chrystal Young from promoting the benefits of commute alternatives to her 568 employees. The keys to her success are keeping her CTR program fresh and keeping her enthusiasm high.
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Tracy Sontrop
Most Valuable Commuter March 2003
Cutting back on expenses and spending more time with her family is what prompted Tracy Sontrop to propose working from home over eight years ago. Initially she began working from home two days a week and for the past year and half has been working from home four days a week.
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Cherie Young
Most Valuable Commuter February 2003
Originating in Coeur dAlene, Cherie Young has been the primary driver of her vanpool for two and half years. With two stops, one in Post Falls and one at Deaconess Medical Center, the vanpool carries 1415 passengers daily, which eliminates over 4,500 drive alone miles and nearly 260 pound of air pollution each week!
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Jan Pfister
Most Valuable Commuter January 2003
Parking costs, wear and tear on her car and saving money is what motivates Jan Pfister to carpool to work five days a week to her downtown employer. She loves the fact that she doesnt have to deal with the traffic any more either.
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