Published Quarterly by Women Lawyers Volume 20, No. 2 Spring 2009 OWLS Honors Judges Who Inspire Others By Jane M. Yates he 2009 Roberts-Deiz Awards Dinner was with Justice Virginia Linder the culmination of a perfect day in Port- and a week’s stay in Palm Desert, California, at for- Tland. The beautiful, crystal clear weather mer Justice ’s condominium. OWLS set the stage for the President Laura Caldera President dinner, held March 13 Taylor, an attorney with Laura Caldera Taylor at the Governor Hotel. Bullivant Houser Bailey, Vice Presidents, Over 425 people gath- then recognized the Presidents-Elect ered to celebrate and many notable guests in Gwyn McAlpine Heather Van Meter recognize the achieve- attendance, including ments of two individu- state and federal judges Secretary Jane Yates als who have worked and Oregon State Bar to promote women (OSB) leaders. Treasurer Concetta Schwesinger and minorities in the An inspiring slide legal profession. For show, accompanied Historian Alice Bartelt the third year in a row, by insightful recorded the awards dinner was comments, introduced Board Members Nancy Cook sold out. the presentation of each Dana Forman The Judge Mercedes award. These introduc- Cynthia Fraser

Photo by Jodee Jackson tions served to remind Shari Gregory Deiz Award was pre- Cashauna Hill sented to the Honor- Judges Richard Baldwin and Patricia Sullivan the audience of the Megan Livermore able Richard C. Baldwin great progress made by Julia Markley Judge Mercedes Deiz and Justice Betty Roberts Linda Meng of the Multnomah County Circuit Court, and the Hon. Justice Betty Roberts Award was presented to the throughout their careers, and of the progress Leslie O’Leary Honorable Patricia Sullivan, magistrate judge for that women and minorities have made in the Hon. Julia Philbrook Kathleen J. Rastetter the U.S. District Court, District of Oregon, and an legal profession. They should not, however, signal Hon. Katherine Tennyson attorney with the firm Corey, Byler, Rew, Lorenzen the end of a journey, as OWLS continues to strive Shannon Terry & Hojem in Pendleton. to fulfill its mission to transform the practice of Heather L. Weigler As dessert was served, the festivities com- law and ensure justice and equality by advancing Past Presidents menced with a live auction to benefit OWLS’ women and minorities in the legal profession. Kellie Johnson Norma S. Freitas sister organization, the OWLS Foundation. For The first award presented was the Judge Kate A. Wilkinson the second year, auctioneer extraordinaire Sonia Mercedes Deiz Award, which is bestowed upon Jennifer K. De Wald Montalbano catalyzed the audience to extend its an individual who has made an outstanding Sarah J. Crooks Elizabeth Schwartz generosity. Live auction items included kayaking Continued on page 4 Lori E. Deveny Debra Pilcher Velure Marilyn E. Litzenberger Teresa M. Kraemer “Road to the Bench” Panel Discussion Patricia L. Heatherman Julie Levie Caron and Diversity Social on April 24 in Portland Phylis Chadwell Myles Helle Rode regon Women Lawyers, the Oregon Minority Lawyers Association, and the OSB Diversity Diana Craine Kathryn M. Ricciardelli OSection invite you to a panel discussion that aims to inspire and encourage diverse mem- Agnes Sowle bers of the bar to consider judicial careers. Join us on Friday, April 24, at 4 p.m. for a panel Katherine H. O’Neil discussion with U.S. District Court Judge Ancer Haggerty, Oregon Court of Appeals Judge Ellen Executive Director Rosenblum, Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Youlee You, and Washington County Circuit Linda Tomassi, 503.595.7831 Court Judge Marco Hernandez. We will be at the World Trade Center, Building 2, Mezzanine 5, [email protected] in Portland. Can’t make the discussion? Join us for the social at 5:30 p.m. AdvanceSheet Editor Elise Gautier, 503.292.2893 No RSVP required. No cost to attend. Hors d’oeuvres and a no-host bar will be offered during [email protected] the social. CLE credit request pending. Special thanks to Williams Kastner for its support. Continued on page 6 www.oregonwomenlawyers.org

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 1 SPRING 2009 President’s Message Save the Date! his is my final President’s Message. In preparing to write it, I reflected upon my experiences on the Fall CLE on Sept. 25 TOWLS and OWLS Foundation boards. It all began he OWLS Fall CLE and 20th in my first year of practice. I was in my office when the TAnniversary Reception and phone rang. This was no ordinary phone call. It was Justice Awards Presentation will be on Fri- Betty Roberts calling to ask if I was interested in joining the day afternoon, September 25, 2009, Oregon Women Lawyers Foundation board. in Port- What other organization but OWLS presents this kind of land. You opportunity to a first-year lawyer? Through OWLS I have will not met many acquaintances, friends, mentors, and mentees. want to Through this organization my career has been enhanced miss this Laura Caldera Taylor and my personal life has been enriched. t e r r i f i c I want to take this opportunity to say thank you—for presenta- the mentoring, friendship, leadership opportunities, professional networking, and tion and listserve referrals. I look forward to the great things that OWLS, and its members, celebra- will do to transform the practice of law by advancing women and minorities in the tion. The legal profession. CLE will f e a t u r e Sarah Weddington keynote Laura Caldera Taylor speaker Sarah Weddington, a law- OWLS President yer, professor, and women’s rights advocate. Panelists will include Holly Fujie, president, California State Bar; Kellie Johnson Speaks to MLLS Kris Olson, former U.S. attorney; and By Hon. Jill Tanner Hon. Darleen Ortega, Oregon Court ellie Johnson concluded her ment, Kellie of Appeals. Katherine H. O’Neil will remarks at the January 21 Mary advised—you moderate the panel. Leonard Law Society meeting by need to reach Please join us after the CLE for K OWLS’ 20th Anniversary Reception noting that taking the first step, whether out to others it be entering law school, starting a new to give and and presentation of the fourth an- job, or finding that next opportunity, receive. Kellie nual Workplace Leader Award. takes courage. A first step along the reminded us leadership path is “always scary,” she that we each explained, because, like Rosa Parks, you have some- Thank You are ultimately “acting alone.” thing to give In the last issue of this newsletter, we Kellie encouraged each of us to find the because we listed OWLS members who had joined “shoes” that fit and get walking. “Shoes” are unique. Kellie Johnson or renewed their membership at an is shorthand for Service, Honesty with “Don’t talk enhanced level. We’d also like to thank the proper dash of Humor, Opportunity, about it, be about it,” she quipped. those who have done so since then: Encouragement, and Success. Kellie explained that because our suc- Eric Meyer The first step is to find, through a self- cess is personal, it can be measured only Sandy N. Webb-Robinson assessment of talents and skills, a path by each of us. Success, she noted, can be Kyoko Wyse that leads to service and opens a door a commitment to make a change—like that serves you and your career. Kellie sharing time and talents with others to recounted her road to the Oregon State make the legal workplace better for Bar Board of Governors, on which she women of color. Bend OWLSNet on April 24 now serves, citing her strong interest in Kellie, a 1996 graduate of the Univer- Cascade Women Lawyers invites pro- and commitment to affirmative action sity of Oregon School of Law, is the imme- fessional women in central Oregon and its role in her decision to become diate past president of Oregon Women to an OWLSNet event generously a “voice.” Lawyers and helped create its Workplace hosted by Schwabe, Williamson & Finding, making, or capturing an Leader Award. When she is not working, Wyatt at its Bend office on April 24, opportunity cannot happen, Kellie ex- Kellie devotes her personal time to her 4:30–6 p.m. A $5 donation to Legal plained, unless you know others and find seven-year-old daughter, Dae, who, like Aid Services of Oregon is requested. connections to open the door for the next her mother, loves shoes! Please see the OWLS website, www. opportunity. Each step along the road oregonwomenlawyers.org, for more requires a reevaluation process. Seek Hon. Jill Tanner is the presiding magis- information. input from those who offer encourage- trate of the Oregon Tax Court. Our mission is to transform the practice of law and ensure justice and equality by advancing women and minorities in the legal profession.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 2 SPRING 2009 Nominations Sought for OWLS Workplace Leader Award

WLS’ stated mission is to “trans- How can they value contributions to the minority lawyers and equipping them form the practice of law and organization that are not captured by for leadership. Oensure justice and equality by the usual quantification tools, such as In 2008, the award was presented advancing women and minorities in the billable hours? to Gartland, Nelson, McCleery, Wade legal profession.” We believe that law & Walloch, located in Eugene, for ac- as traditionally practiced has included The Award commodating part-time and flexible barriers to the advancement of women The Workplace Leader Award recog- schedules, encouraging leadership and and minorities and has not always been nizes a legal employer making innovative mentoring in the legal community, and a friend to those seeking a healthy, bal- and effective efforts to promote one or inclusive decision-making. anced life. We seek to encourage and more of the following values: The 2009 award recipient will be hon- celebrate change that will eliminate those s A HEALTHY BALANCE BETWEEN WORK ored at OWLS’ Fall CLE and 20th Anniver- barriers and imbalances, and we expect and life sary Reception and Awards Presentation, that the profession will be stronger as s ACQUIRINGANDMAINTAININGADIVERSE on Friday, September 25, 2009. a result. workforce with diverse leadership While most legal employers agree in s MAXIMIZINGOPPORTUNITIESFORWOM- Nomination Information concept that such changes are needed, en and minorities to succeed in the Nominations should include informa- many disagree on how to achieve these workplace and advance to positions tion that will help the award committee goals. How can legal employers help of influence and leadership evaluate the employer’s specific program, women avoid losing so much momen- We are not looking for an employer policy, or project; the markers of success tum in their careers while their children who exemplifies all these virtues. Rather, for that program, policy, or project; and are small that they give up on becom- the award will recognize a specific pro- names of people who can be contacted ing leaders in the profession? How can gram, policy, or project that is successfully for further information. Nominations part-time employment work, for both addressing one or more of the concerns must be received by June 1, 2009, employer and employee? How can legal outlined above. We particularly want to and should be sent to Leslie O’Leary, employers promote effective mentoring encourage applications from in-house Oregon Women Lawyers, c/o Williams relationships? What can they do to attract legal departments, government em- Love O’Leary & Powers, 9755 SW Barnes and retain qualified women and minority ployers, and employers who are making Rd., Suite 450, Portland, Oregon 97225; lawyers and equip them for leadership? strides in recruiting and retaining ethnic [email protected].

At www.delawareemploymentlawblog. com/2009/03/50_best_blogs_on_well- ness_wome.html, you’ll find a list of “50 Best Blogs on Wellness, Women’s Interests, and Work-Life Balance.”

OWLS Foundation–MBA Golf Event on July 23 he OWLS Foundation and the Mult- Tnomah Bar Association Golf Commit- tee will co-sponsor a family-friendly golf outing on July 23 on the 12-hole course at McMenamins Edgefield in Troutdale. All holes are very short and playable by golfers and nongolfers alike. Golf clubs will be available for rent. This outing is for players young and old. Children are welcome and encour- aged to attend. A putting contest will be held before the scheduled tee times, and several prizes will be awarded. Players are encouraged to stay after golf for no-host beverages and food. OWLS Foundation advisory board mem- ber Kathy Root is co-chair of this event, and several OWLS Foundation board members will be there as volunteers. Please make plans to come out and [email protected] play! For more information, contact Kathy Portland Seattle Spokane Coeur d’Alene National Root at 503.226.7986. (503) 227-1544 (206) 622-3376 (509) 838-6000 (208) 667-1163 (800) 528-3335

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 3 SPRING 2009 Roberts-Deiz Awards Dinner continued from page 1 he said, is always surpassed by what we receive in the giving. The Justice Betty Roberts Award, presented to the Honorable Patricia Sullivan, recognizes a person who has made an outstanding contribution to promoting women in the legal profes- sion and the community. Photos by Jodee Jackson Left to right: Nancy Miller, Dean Margie Paris, Eva Jo Temple, a partner at Left to right: Christy Doornick, and Michele Buck-Romero Anderson Hansell Temple Angela Franco Lucero, and Kendra Matthews in Hermiston, introduced contribution to promoting minorities Judge Sullivan established the Rebecca Judge Sullivan as one who inspires oth- in the legal profession and the com- J. Bloom Chapter of OWLS, served on the ers to take action, setting a standard to munity. Stella Manabe introduced the OWLS Board of Directors, has a thriving which we should each aspire. recipient, the Honorable Richard C. family, and has engaged in many com- Baldwin. Stella, the 2005 Deiz Award munity activities, such as serving on recipient, lauded Judge Baldwin as the Pendleton School District Board a champion of fairness who battles of Directors and on the board of Start institutional racism. He was a driv- Making a Reader Today (SMART). ing force in the creation of the OSB Judge Sullivan also founded the Pio- Diversity Section; has been a leader neer Relief Nursery in eastern Oregon, in establishing, supporting, and de- which works to strengthen families fending the elimination-of-bias (now and keep children safe. access-to-justice) MCLE requirement; In accepting the award, Judge and has served as chair of the Oregon Sullivan first declared how humbled Judicial Department Access to Justice she was to receive it, and then ac- Committee. From left: Back: Hon. Merri Souther Wyatt, Anne knowledged Justice Betty Roberts, When accepting the award, Judge Marie King; Front: Elisa Dozono, Hon. Betty who attended the event. Judge Baldwin invited the audience to be- Roberts, Hon. , and Hon. Pat Sullivan Sullivan thanked her daughters and come the change they wish to see in the her husband, Steve Thomas, whom she Judge Sullivan has long been a men- world. He observed that everyone has a described as her number-one supporter. tor to young women lawyers in eastern need to be recognized as a unique hu- His unwavering support and commitment Oregon, constantly inviting them to net- man being and that all human beings to her service, she explained, allowed her work, helping them solve problems, and are born free and equal in dignity and to pursue her work, through which the in- brainstorming about opportunities. She rights. Judge Baldwin also explained that terests of others were advanced. She also is a leader who brings people and ideas we must educate and change ourselves to thanked many mentors, as well as friends together to improve the lot of women become more inclusive and that no civil who traveled from Pendleton to celebrate and families. rights are secure un- with her. til all are secure. In closing, Judge Judge Baldwin Thank you, 2009 Roberts-Deiz Awards S u l l i v a n u r g e d thanked his family young attorneys and acknowledged Dinner sponsors, for your support to find the time the late Judge Mer- to help others. “I cedes Deiz, before The 2009 Roberts-Deiz Awards Dinner was another sellout success, promise you,” she whom he practiced thanks in no small part to our generous sponsors. said, “that if you law, noting that get involved . . . in Judge Deiz had a Title Sponsor: Stoel Rives anything that has particular skill in tai- to do with kids and loring appropriate Gold Sponsors Silver Sponsors families and giving legal remedies. Markowitz, Herbold, Glade Garvey Schubert Barer of yourselves, you’ll In closing, Judge & Mehlhaf Gleaves Swearingen never be sorry.” Baldwin urged the Miller Nash Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt Jane M. Yates, audience to act in Perkins Coie Tonkon Torp an associate at small ways in their Williams Kastner Gleaves, Swearin- individual capaci- Williams Love O’Leary & Powers gen, Potter & Scott ties and reminded in Eugene, practic- us that life is built Special thanks to our volunteer photographer, Jodee Jackson, es general business on small opportuni- and to outgoing Roberts-Deiz Committee co-chair Kendra Matthews. law, emphasizing ties. What we give, real estate.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 4 SPRING 2009 OWLS Foundation More Than 200 Attend OWLSNet Event Hosts Popular Auction By Elizabeth Tedesco s part of the OWLS Roberts-Deiz n February 4, OWLS teamed up whether this Dinner, the OWLS Foundation once with the Oregon Bankers Associa- legitimizes Aagain hosted its annual auction on Otion, the Oregon Society of Certi- the “mommy March 13, raising approximately $16,000. fied Public Accountants, and the Portland track,” and The success of the auction is attributed Metro chapter of Women in Insurance whether the to a wonderful Auction Committee and and Financial Services for a successful benefits of the 154 donors who contributed items, inter-professional networking event at such positions including artwork, entertainment tickets, the World Trade Center in Portland. outweigh the weekend trips, and many baskets of spe- The event began with a presentation drawbacks. cial gifts. This year’s Auction Committee by Elizabeth D. Almer, PhD, an associate As Dr. Almer was co-chaired by Kat Rosenbaum and professor of accounting at Portland State asked, “Are Aruna Masih. University, about work/life balance issues women are Elizabeth D. Almer and the upward mobility of women. satisfied or Dr. Almer pointed to surprising parallels ‘satisficing’”? in the challenges facing women in both Dr. Almer’s presentation prompted a the legal and accounting professions. She lively discussion among the more than noted that the number of women in each 200 people in attendance, during both profession has increased dramatically the question-and-answer session and the in the past several decades, and 90% networking event that followed. OWLS of women are now returning to work members appreciated the opportunity from maternity leave, but the number to connect with, and gain the perspec- of women at the highest levels of their tive of, women in the financial industry, Photo by Jodee Jackson profession—in law, as equity partners—is particularly in the midst of current events. Enjoying the auction (left to right): disproportionately low. The discussion OWLS thanks Tonkon Torp and the CPA Naomi Levelle-Haslitt, Kim Sugawa-Fujinaga, and Rachel Arnold focused on whether women must spend firm Talbot, Korvola & Warwick for their their careers as non-equity partners or in generous sponsorship of this event. The live auction, which took place dur- “of counsel” positions to strike a work- Elizabeth Tedesco is an attorney at Kolisch ing dinner, generated a lot of energy and able balance between job and home life, Hartwell in Portland. laughter due to the splendid performance of our auctioneer, Sonia Montalbano. The live auction featured three fun packages: a private pool party at Uptown Billiards, which raised $800; a kayaking excursion “When an with Justice Virginia Linder in kayaks she made, which raised $1,500; and a Palm attorney called Desert vacation package donated by Hon. me from New Betty Roberts and the Westin Mission Hills Golf Course, which raised $1,700. York after the Other top donors and bidders included Sarah Crooks, Hon. Susan Tripp, Agnes close of business Sowle, Hon. Katherine Tennyson, Lynda and Robert Hilliard, Hon. Mary James, one Thursday to Susan Teller, Roscoe Nelson, Dady Blake, We offer the same services as the other top and Hon. Kristena LaMar. Every donation ask if I could get received was important, and the Founda- him a reporter in Portland reporting firms. We deliver the same tion sincerely thanks each“ donor. high quality product. The difference is our The OWLS Foundation would also like New York for the personal commitment to superior service. to introduce our new board officers, whose terms run from June 2009 through next morning, I Our New York friend had his reporter the May 2010. Terri Kraemer will serve as the next morning. He was thrilled, of course. Foundation board president. Joining her had only two on the Executive Committee are Phylis words for him. If you want service, call Teach. 503.248.1003. Myles, vice president/president-elect; It’s all about service. Libby Davis, treasurer; Aruna Masih, sec- retary; and Trudy Allen, historian. Thank you to everyone who donated “Of course.” or bid at the auction for supporting the OWLS Foundation and its mission —Catherine Teach 1500 SW First Avenue, Portland, OR 97201 to promote access to justice for women 503.248.1003 or 800.230.3302 and minorities.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 5 SPRING 2009

“Of course.” —Catherine Teach Thank You, Outgoing OWLS Board Members By Linda Tomassi he lawyers and judges who serve also the chair of the AAJ Section on Toxic attendees at on the OWLS board come to this Environmental and Pharmaceutical Torts. OWLS events. Tservice with a distinctive dedica- Many thanks to Leslie and her firm for Thank you to tion and passion. Each is actively commit- ongoing support of the OWLS mission. Julia and her ted to furthering the OWLS mission to The Honorable Adrienne Nelson, of firm for ongo- transform the practice of law and ensure the Multnomah County Circuit Court, ing dedication justice and equality by advancing women served on the OWLS board for one term to OWLS’ mis- and minorities in the legal profession. and as a deliberator on the Roberts-Deiz sion. We look OWLS wishes to extend our gratitude to Awards Committee for four years. Judge forward to five outgoing board members for their Nelson was collaborating years of service. the recipient with Julia and Laura Caldera Taylor, an associate at of the 2003 NAPABA. Nancy Cook Bullivant Houser Bailey, has served on the Judge Mer- Nancy Cook, Marion County public board since 2005 and as OWLS president c e d e s D e i z defender, served on the board during this past year. Whether Laura was wel- Award and two very different OWLS eras. She served coming attendees at an OWLS network- has educated her first term from Roseburg beginning ing event in Eugene, organizing a board OWLS mem- in 1991, when OWLS was only two years meeting in Roseburg, problem solving bers through old and women lawyers in the area were with staff, or preparing to emcee the several CLEs, few and far between. Nancy leaves her Roberts-Deiz Awards Dinner, Laura kept including the second term on OWLS’ 20th anniversary, the OWLS mission at the forefront of her 2008 Spring having moved recently to Marion County, commitment to the organization. CLE, when she Julia Markley and serving during a significant growth in Oregon Super Lawyers magazine sat on a panel membership. Nancy will continue to serve named Laura one of Oregon’s Rising about breaking trails in politics and law, on the OWLS Regional Outreach Com- Stars in 2008. Her ongoing commitment celebrating the release of Hon. Betty mittee, formed in 2006, helping OWLS to professional and civic volunteerism Roberts’s autobiography. work more closely with and support our includes co-chairing the Multnomah Bar Tireless in her commitment to women chapters throughout the state. This year Association CourtCare Fundraising Com- and minorities in the law, Judge Nelson she brings new light to finding work/life mittee, serving on the Ambassador Board is a mentor through the OWLS Founda- balance, as she seeks certification as a py- of the Children’s Cancer Association, tion Armonica Gilford grants program, rotechnician in Oregon and Washington, and serving as chair of the Government serves as president of the Multnomah which requires approval from Homeland Roundtables Task Group to the North Bar Foundation board, chairs the Lewis Security. Nancy loves fireworks. America Subcommittee of the Anti- & Clark Law School Roosevelt Robinson Alice Bartelt served two terms on the Counterfeiting Enforcement Committee Scholarship Committee, is one of the OWLS board, most recently as historian. of the International Trademark Associa- three Oregon State Bar delegates to She retired from the SAIF Corporation tion. Finally, no gratitude for Laura would the American Bar Association House of in 2007, and in between visits to her be complete without also extending it to Delegates, and is a Girls Scouts Beyond grandchildren, is involved in a multitude her assistant, Marcie Carter, who helped Bars board member. We look forward to of public service activities. Alice serves make everything work this year. Judge Nelson’s continued support of the as president of the Beaverton branch of Leslie O’Leary, a partner at Williams OWLS mission. the American Association of University Love O’Leary & Powers, served two Julia Markley, of counsel with Perkins Women (AAUW) and as president of terms on the board, during which she Coie, served one term on the OWLS the affiliate board of NARAL Pro-Choice participated in revising the OWLS mis- board, and chaired or co-chaired the Oregon. With the AAUW of Oregon, she sion, which resulted in the creation of Roberts-Deiz Dinner Committee for sev- works on issues regarding human ser- the OWLS Transformation Committee. eral years beginning in 2002. She served vices, women, elections, and education. Leslie has co-chaired this committee as the OWLS board liaison with the OSB She is the treasurer of a local chapter since its inception, and helped create the Diversity Section, providing ongoing col- of Americans United for Separation of Workplace Leader Award, the fourth of laboration with the bar. Julia maintains Church and State and rules chair for the which will be presented this fall. Leslie her dedication to diversity in the legal Democratic Party of Washington County. said, “I’ve gotten to know some amazing community by working with other Asian Fortunately, Alice has many venues to women and have been delighted to take Pacific American lawyers to launch the promote women and minorities in the part in so many wonderful changes to our first local affiliate of the National Asian legal profession. organization during my tenure on the Pacific American Bar Association (NA- As these five women join the ranks board . . . . I can’t wait to see what our PABA). She will also continue to serve of OWLS past board members, we hope board does in the coming years.” on the OWLS Judicial Work Group to members from around the state will con- Leslie’s ongoing professional and promote diversity on the bench. sider board service in years to come. civic involvement includes serving on the Board meetings will not be the same board of NARAL Pro-Choice Oregon and without Julia’s nine-month-old daugh- Linda Tomassi is the executive director the board of Oregon Trial Lawyers. She is ter, Zorina, who is among the youngest of Oregon Women Lawyers.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 6 SPRING 2009 Pam Knowles Runs for Portland Public Schools Board By Heather L. Weigler fter nearly two decades of volun- Leading a coalition of teachers and to reexamine teering and working to strengthen parents, Pam spearheaded the da Vinci how we’re Athe education system for working Arts Middle School, which has grown delivering all families, OWLS founding member Pam from an initial enrollment of 60 to 400 education- Knowles is running for Portland Public students today. All of the electives are art al services. Schools Board of Education in the May classes, and the only PE class is dance. Her “We are in 2009 election. other sons also attended da Vinci, where increasingly Pam has extensive experience working arts is infused in education. challenging on behalf of kids. She was a founding “My involvement with arts education times, and member and chair of the Oregon Com- changed the way I think about education we need to mission on Child Care, as well as chair in general,” she said. “It’s very important look at what of Child Care Development Services, an for kids to have opportunities to show we’re doing Pam Knowles organization that works to secure access their creative and innovative side.” Arts a n d w o r k to child care for families across the state. education, she explained, helps kids de- with partners to determine how we can Pam has also worked as a director of velop problem-solving and team-building best fund and deliver educational services development and marketing at Portland skills. Most important, it motivates kids to kids. I really believe that we need Center Stage and project director of and helps them stay in school. someone who is a leader and who can the Portland Schools Foundation’s arts Only 65% of ninth graders in Portland develop collaborative coalitions to build education plan. public schools graduate within four years; schools that support kids and families. I “I’ve always had a passion for children only 25% of those graduates finish col- have experience building collaborative and families,” says Pam, who started lege. Pam wants to change those num- efforts and leading them, and I will bring her career as a high school social studies bers. “We need an educated workforce; that experience to the table.” teacher. After graduating from Lewis & it’s a real problem to have such high drop- For more about Pam and her campaign, Clark Law School in 1983, she practiced out and low college-attendance rates. We visit www.pamknowles.com. employment law at Davis Wright Tre- also need to put more emphasis on the maine, becoming the firm’s first female trades and technical training.” Heather L. Weigler is an OWLS board partner. She currently serves as chief Pam says that arts education is one way member and an assistant attorney general operating officer and general counsel for to reduce drop-out rates, but we need in the Oregon Department of Justice. the Portland Business Alliance, one of Or- egon’s largest business organizations. Pam credits OWLS with preparing her to take on the challenges of serving on the school board. “OWLS provided me with mentors and skill building that I’ll be able to use on the board. It’s a wonderful organization, and it’s a great way to be around other women being leaders and learn from them.” A mother of three, Pam was able to apply those skills for her own children. “My eldest son, David, always had an artistic bent, even as a small child,” she explained. Although David attended Buckman Arts Elementary, an arts mag- net school where Pam served as PTA president, there was no arts magnet middle school for him to attend—so she founded one.

For more information on OWLS and our activities, please visit our website, www.oregonwomenlawyers.org. Check out the pictures, historical information, calendar of events, and volunteer opportunities.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 7 SPRING 2009 Political Leadership Series Aims to Inspire OWLS Members By Heather L. Weigler n February 10, the OWLS Leader- Opportunity Program (POP) at Emily’s Service. ship Committee sponsored the List also recruits, supports, and trains Emily has Ofirst session of a new discussion Democratic women candidates to run for devoted her series to encourage and equip women and win state and local office. Through career to vol- and minority attorneys to pursue posi- POP, Emily’s List has trained thousands of unteer and tions of political leadership. Hosted by potential and actual candidates since it community Stoel Rives in Portland, the event featured was founded in 2000, after the number service, in- two organizations that recruit, train and of women in state legislatures declined cluding as an assist women candidates: Emily’s List for the first time in 30 years. In the 2008 AmeriCorps and Emerge Oregon. Panelists Barbara election, the program helped elect ten v o l u n t e e r. Smith Warner, Amy Edwards, and Jeanne women to statewide office, including “Two hun- Duncan offered insights and advice to OWLS member and Secretary of State dred million Nancy Goss Duran OWLS members interested in running . dollars of the for office. J e a n n e recent federal stimulus package are de- “The most important thing for any also offered voted to national service, and with that candidate to have is a good answer to participants come new requirements of transparency why she’s running,” advised Barbara, a a blueprint and reporting for nonprofits with Ame- staffer for Senator and an for thinking riCorps volunteers,” Emily explained. By Emerge Oregon board member. “It should about fund- serving on the Oregon commission, she be a statement of your values and reflect raising. She has access to that information and a say your assets.” She suggested starting by advised par- in how AmeriCorps dollars are spent in thinking about an issue you care about, ticipants to Oregon. “Serving on the board helps me how you can have an impact on it, and think about have an impact on issues I care about,” what paths are available to you to make d i f f e r e n t Amy Edwards she said. that happen. sources of Having an impact on public policy is The panelists agreed that the Oregon financing, from their friends and families one of the main benefits of serving. Nancy legislature and Congress need more to people who have an ax to grind with recounted how the Board of Pharmacists lawyers, but they advised participants to their opponents. She also encouraged helped Governor Kulongoski crack down balance their resumes with government candidates not to be shy about asking on methamphetamine. “When the gover- and community service. Volunteering for money. “People give money because nor took office, he wanted to attack the for a campaign is also a good way to they want to,” she explained. meth problem right away. He turned to get experience in politics, which will Women win elections at the same rates the Board of Pharmacists, and they took help you think about constituencies and men do when they run, but they still hold action to put pseudoephedrine behind identify opportunities to throw your hat less than a third of elective offices across the counter, which had an immediate in the ring. the county. The panelists observed that effect on meth production.” Governor Take a leadership role on boards, com- women are less likely to run than men Kulongoski “doesn’t hesitate to use missions, and civic organizations to build for a variety of reasons, all of which can boards to further his policy goals and to a foundation of skills and create oppor- be overcome. For example, women are make life better for all Oregonians.” tunities to make a difference. Barbara less likely to believe that they’re the best Nancy explained that most boards have encouraged taking on a cause close to person for the job. “Women feel like they a public member position to represent home. “ got into politics have to work their way up, but men shoot the interests of ordinary citizens. “If because of concrete playgrounds,” she for the moon,” said Barbara. “Women you are willing to learn and make the said. Hooley was appointed to a parks should be willing to take a risk. The race time commitment involved, you don’t advisory committee in 1976 after her son you lose could be the best you run!” need intimate knowledge of the field. was injured; she retired this year from a At the second session of the series, on Good public members are always being decade of service in the U.S. House of March 18, Miller Nash hosted the group sought.“ Representatives. in Portland for a discussion led by Nancy Governor Kulongoski values diversity, OWLS member Amy Edwards, a Goss Duran, director of executive appoint- and he is always looking for applications litigation associate at Stoel Rives and an ments for Governor Kulongoski. Nancy from different regions of the state, as Emerge Oregon board member, invited encouraged participants to develop lead- well as for women and minority board participants to apply for Emerge Oregon’s ership skills and learn how government members, Nancy said. “You bring your life inaugural campaign school, which starts works by serving on boards and commis- experience and your work experience to in April 2009. Emerge Oregon hopes to sions. She was joined by Emily Gilliland, the board, and both you and the public give women the tools they need to cam- executive director of Oregon Campus benefit,” she explained, noting that paign at all levels, creating a pipeline of Compact, an organization devoted to some board members have used their women prepared to run for office when helping higher education institutions service to network, generating clients opportunities arise. become involved in community service. and building other professional relation- Jeanne Duncan, senior writer for Emily sits on the Oregon Volunteers ships. “It’s public service that can serve Emily’s List, explained that the Political Commission for Voluntary Action and your interests as well.”

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 8 SPRING 2009 Meet Board Member Kathleen Rastetter By Mavel Morales

ne of OWLS’ most dedicated Vergeer, Kes- members finally joined the OWLS ter for almost Oboard in the spring of 2007. Kathi 11 years. She (Hansa) Rastetter has been an OWLS was a part- member since she moved to Portland in ner when she 1992. She has served on the AdvanceSheet decided that Committee for many years, writing nu- she needed Gov. and Shannon merous articles, and last year she helped to stretch past Terry, president of the Mary Leonard form the new Clackamas County chapter her comfort Law Society, on Jan. 28 at an event of OWLS. Kathi says that through OWLS zone to learn sponsored by MLLS, the Oregon she has met some of the most inspiring, s o m e t h i n g Minority Lawyers Association, and energetic people she’s ever had the good new. So in Kathleen Rastetter Willamette College of Law fortune to know. Her participation in 2004 she be- OWLS, she explains, inspires her not only gan working for Clackamas County as a Oregon has more than 200 boards to be a better lawyer but to work to make senior county counsel, where she litigates and commissions, and Emily noted that the legal profession a better experience matters ranging from employment and Oregon is unique in providing so many for all women and minorities. labor law to civil rights, contracts, tax, varied opportunities to serve. “One of the Kathi received her B.S. from Purdue elections, and voting rights issues. She great things about this state is how clear University, in Indiana. While her work as also handles appellate and administra- and transparent the opportunities are,” a clinical dietitian took her to Denver, San tive law matters. she said. “It’s not like that in other states.” Jose, and Newark, she developed an inter- Kathi has run 12 marathons, culminat- A whole spectrum of boards and commis- est in the law. So she enrolled at Rutgers ing in the Boston Marathon in 2003. She sions must keep active and filled, from a University School of Law in Newark, N.J. also enjoys skiing, hiking, cooking, gar- board that licenses tattoo artists to one After graduating in 1990, she clerked for dening, rafting, reading, and hanging out that sets rules for boiler operation, and U.S. District Court Judge John C. Lifland in with her husband and his two girls. Nancy is always recruiting. “You can apply New Jersey for two years. Then, when it OWLS thanks Kathi for her longtime at any time, and you don’t have to apply was time to move to New York and start service and commitment to OWLS. to any particular board,” she said. work at a law firm, she changed her mind Mavel Morales is the attorney and co- Board service offers many opportuni- and headed to Portland. ordinator for the Project Against Work- ties to develop leadership skills. “The In Portland, Kathi did insurance defense place Sexual Violence in the Fields at the governor wants people who will do their and employment litigation at Cosgrave, Oregon Law Center in Hillsboro. homework and strongly advocate for their positions,” Nancy explained. “Even if they’re the only one at the table with that Queen’s Bench Meets Lewis & Clark Students opinion, at least it’s being discussed.” By Hon. Julia Philbrook Nancy invited attendees to contact awyers, judges, and law students Susan Marmaduke talked about her her and discuss opportunities to serve enjoyed an evening of network- decision not to practice law upon gradu- on boards and commissions. Informa- ing at Lewis & Clark Law School ating from the University of California at tion about openings and the application L on March 5. During the reception, two Berkeley School of Law (Boalt Hall). In- process is available at www.oregon.gov/ accomplished women, Multnomah stead, she married and moved to Yemen. Gov/boards.shtml. County Circuit Court Judge Diana Stuart It was only after returning to the United The next political leadership discus- and Susan Marmaduke, a shareholder at States several years later that she began sion will be held in Portland on May 13 Harrang Long Gary Rudnick, spoke about her legal career—because she needed at 6:30 p.m. Three women candidates their sometimes circuitous pathways to to support herself and her son. She now will discuss their experiences running for satisfying professional careers. serves as chair of her firm’s litigation de- office and share stories of the campaign Both women attended law school at partment and practices business litigation trail. Secretary of State Kate Brown will a time when women comprised a small in state and federal courts. be joined by Cyreena Boston, a staffer for percentage of the graduating class. Judge Both speakers offered tips on practic- U.S. Senator and former can- Stuart spoke of her move to Oregon to ing law and stressed the importance of didate for Oregon House District 45, and attend Willamette, sight unseen. After working hard to attain your goals. Donna Maddux, Tualatin city councilor graduating, her first job as a lawyer was Many thanks to the speakers and to and attorney in charge of the Organized for Prisoners’ Legal Services. She then the Women’s Law Caucus, Lewis & Clark Crime Unit at the Oregon Department of worked for Metropolitan Public Defender Law School, and Queen’s Bench. The ca- Justice. Three more sessions are planned and the Office of the Federal Public maraderie, hors d’oeuvres, libations, and for the fall. For more information, email Defender of Oregon. She later became inspiring talks were enjoyed by all. [email protected]. a partner at Goldberg, Mechanic, Stuart Hon. Julia Philbrook, a judge pro tem Heather L. Weigler is an OWLS board & Gibson, where she worked until she on the Multnomah County Circuit Court, member and an assistant attorney general was appointed to the bench by Governor serves on the boards of Queen’s Bench at the Oregon Department of Justice. Kulongoski in 2007. and Oregon Women Lawyers.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 9 SPRING 2009 Our mission is to transform the practice THE JUDGES’ FORUM It’s better than of law and ensure justice and equality by it could have advancing women and minorities in the been. A late-hour legal profession. breakthrough re- sulted in a shift love the OWLS mission statement. of $1.7 million to Whenever I have the daunting task soften the blow of following in the “Judges’ Forum” I created by the footsteps of Judges Rosenblum and furloughs. As a Ortega, I reread the mission statement By The Honorable Cheryl Albrecht result, manda- for inspiration. It’s just daring enough to Multnomah County Circuit Court tory furlough be audacious, but if anyone can transform Hon. Cheryl Albrecht days went from the practice of law, it’s the energetic and only one day. As of this writing, the 16 to 6, and pay visionary OWLS membership. Whenever I dust has settled down to six mandatory cuts went from 20% to 7.5%. think of OWLS members pursing the mis- furlough days for each employee until Initially, proposed cuts amounted to sion statement, I get an image in my mind July 1. Elected judges may not participate $16 million (and still might in these un- of the resolute Rosie the Riveter, dressed in furloughs as the Oregon Constitution certain times). Noting that “Oregonians in a suit instead of dungarees. prohibits salary reduction for judges. We can really use some of Rosie the The furlough days are spread out over will have the unfortunate opportunity to Riveter’s resolve just about now. Oregon’s the week so that enough staff will be learn how justice delayed means justice impending budget crisis is creating available to open courthouses every day denied,” Chief Justice De Muniz estimated ground-shifting implications by the hour. of the week, including Fridays. that those cuts would reduce court hours It feels a little like a big roiling earth- Things could still change dramatically by half. That’s right. Half-capacity courts. quake, and you’ll know where things will by the time you read this. Potential after- In that scenario, courts would be able to be only when the shaking stops. shocks may result in further adjustments handle absolute emergencies and cases In the past few weeks, the Oregon for these final few months. Closures re- representing the most extreme public Judicial Department (OJD) has scrambled main a looming presence. The Legislative safety concerns. Everything else would to absorb $16 million, then $11 million, Fiscal Office has asked state agencies to be deferred. Perhaps for years. then $9.4 million in budget reductions for submit budgets for the 2009–2011 bien- According to the Chief’s analysis, courts these final four months of the 2007–2009 nium that reflect 30% reductions, as the operating at 50% reductions would be budget cycle. The courts were to have state grapples with an expected $3 billion able to issue abuse protective orders, been closed on Fridays, but that lasted shortfall for that period. Ominously, some conduct civil commitments for mentally refer to the upcoming budget period as ill people who are a danger to themselves the “9-11” budget. or others, and timely indict incarcerated The tumultuous nature of the current criminal defendants, but not much else. The courts would miss statutory hearings ,.,'& !&&+ cuts and how they apply stems partly from Nfejbujpo!Tfswjdft the stronger impact cuts have when fun- deadlines to find placements for children neled into four months instead of spread removed from their homes. Criminal trials out over 24 months. At four months, a $10 would be postponed, some for so long million cut is $2.5 million per month. At that speedy trial protections could compel 24 months, it’s about $417,000. A crush- dismissal of the cases or release of in- ing 30% budget reduction for a two-year mates. Landlords and tenants would lose period, however, may end up having the timely court protections of their rights. same effect as $10 million packed into Only the most urgent family court matters the shorter time frame. As they say, you would be heard, and the civil justice sys- do the math. tem’s ability to resolve disputes of every So where do you start making these stripe would grind to a halt. Moreover, kinds of reductions? For the Oregon even at the more modest $11.1 million Judicial Department, personnel hours in cuts, the state would lose $5 million comprise 88% of the budget. For local in revenue due to the reduced ability to courts, that percentage is higher. It’s collect judgments. The 30% reduction for the next bi- -

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 10 SPRING 2009 

and revisions will be made as needed variety of projects in the event of closures, after the revenue forecast on May 15. including the possibility of partnering It seems the savings realized The official appropriation is expected in with federal court judges to explore don’t reflect the true amount late May or early June. My guess is the resources for prisoners reentering the outlook is not rosy. community. of what’s lost. While reduced hours will help end the Unfortunately, pro-tem judges, hear- fiscal year with the requisite savings, it ings referees, and administrative law at restaurants. It became more invasive seems the savings realized don’t reflect judges in the executive branch are not as we saw neighbors, friends, and family the true amount of what’s lost. Fiscal exempt from the cuts, and they will suf- lose jobs. Now, it affects the entire com- analysts can calculate economic impact, fer the same reduction in hours as other munity, which needs courts to provide but they can’t calculate the qualitative employees. As a result, high-volume, public safety and forums for dispute losses or the emotional toll for the com- essential dockets such as arraignments, resolution. The need for justice doesn’t go munity when access to justice is so greatly workers’ compensation hearings, land- away during a recession. You know that curtailed. It’s just a little ironic that those lord/tenant cases, and employment hear- phrase “think globally and act locally”? needing the courts’ help most during ings are just a few of the many types of That’s just what the current economic this economic downturn are standing cases that face significant delays in the crisis is now doing. across the counter from someone who event of closures. I remember all too well Although morale around these parts is may very soon be in the same situation. my own panic in 2002 and 2003 as the foundering, our amazing employees are Once it gets to this point, numbers just Multnomah County hearings referees tenacious and courageous in the face of don’t matter anymore. contemplated the moving target that it all. They serve as an inspiration. Their You’re not alone if you’re having a was their employment. Would all 13 of example, and this article, have left me profound sense of deja vu. The situation us be laid off? All get cut to half-time? with the resolve that the work we do is remarkably similar to 2003, when we Attrition ultimately helped our particu- as judges and lawyers, giving life to the absorbed significant cuts in the waning lar salary cuts remain at 20%. Ever feel rule of law, is so very fundamental to months of the biennial budget by clos- grateful for a 20% salary cut? I certainly the functioning of our government and ing courts one day per week. During did. Hearings referees around the state our society. If anything, we must not that time, court-appointed attorneys are again confronted with that same give into despair but must continue to were so underfunded that defendants gnawing, disquieting uncertainty. contribute our voices and our service to charged with nonviolent crimes were We’ve been watching as the reces- those who rely on us, whether the times unprosecuted for four months. Some sion has crept into our lives, bit by bit, be placid or rocky. I keep this lantern by might remember news stories of de- making it harder to get a loan or a new my side. Rosie the Riveter would have fendants challenging each other to position and easier to get a good seat nothing less. car-stealing contests. At this juncture, we do not know the amount of budget cuts for the district attorney’s offices, the Public Defense Services Commission, the Department of Human Services, law enforcement agencies, corrections, com- 0  1   1+ munity supervision, etc. In other words, it could get lots worse soon. Because of the constitutional provi- sions, judges will work at the courthouse on any closed days or furlough days. If courthouses are closed on days they are normally open, the courts must be careful not to conduct any matters that would constitute public court proceedings. Oth- erwise, the day would count as a regular business day and have all of the implica-         tions, including counting for purposes of statutes of limitation, service deadlines, and other time-sensitive matters.         During the 2003 closures, judges in Multnomah County performed weddings; conducted presentations before schools,     community groups, and civic organiza- tions; organized court improvement  !  projects; and handled settlement confer- ! "#$ %     ences. The Judicial Outreach Committee  "%& ' () * grew out of that time period, as did the +  + move to make Fridays a day for motion hearings, pleas, settlement conferences,   ,  -.     /  and the ilk. Judges are now discussing a

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 11 SPRING 2009 Tips for Mentees from Your Mentors By Susan M. Hammer ots of books and articles discuss strategic contributions in the nonprofit how to be a good mentor. We world. A good match can last a lifetime; Lhonor good mentors and extol a bad match is less fun, even a chore, their virtues on a regular basis. Much and will eventually fizzle out. Whether less has been said about the other half formal or informal, short- or long-term, of the equation; that is, what makes a choose well. good mentee? A few months ago, I thought we men- Boundaries and respect tors should quit talking about this topic Many women strive to be nonhierar- just among ourselves and, instead, share chical, friendly, open, and helpful, which our thinking with mentees in the legal may send mentees the wrong message. community. I assembled a group of ex- As mentors, we are different from your perienced mentors: former Justice Betty peers. We are generally older and more Two wonderful mentors, the late Judge Roberts, Presiding Judge Jean Maurer, experienced. Although we may strive Mercedes Deiz (left) and former Justice Gail Achterman, and Janet Hoffman. We to be approachable, we still expect to Betty Roberts, on Feb. 8, 1982, the day got together after work over a glass of be treated with respect. Inappropriate Justice Roberts was sworn in to the wine and addressed the question, What informality that says in some way “I take Oregon Supreme Court makes a good mentee? this for granted” is off-putting. Pay at- First, a caveat. This article assumes that tention to titles, appropriate deference, offer to buy the coffee, even if your men- “we” are mentors and “you” are ment- and the right mix of personal/professional tor makes more money. It shows that you ees. In real life we are all both, depending content in a conversation. appreciate her time. on the circumstances. We acknowledge Mentors want you to think about how the false polarity, but use it to pass along I’m too sexy for my clothes to ask for advice. Brainstorming is fine our thoughts. Yes, we may be old fogies, but some- if you don’t know how to get started or We mentors find most relationships times we have a hard time with the way where to turn. But if you have a sense with mentees very rewarding. We want young women dress. We’d like to say it of direction, give some thought to your each mentee to succeed, and we think doesn’t matter, but it still bothers us. As tentative conclusions and your questions. about her career path, the experiences one mentor said, “Cleavage doesn’t make For example, you might say, “I’ve done she needs, and whom she needs to meet. you look smarter.” When we introduce this research and am thinking about ap- We can’t do enough. We become truly you to clients, invite you to an event, or plying to these three firms. I think they invested in her success and view her as ask you to accompany us to court, we would be a good match for these reasons. part of our legacy. expect professional dress, by our old- Here are my priorities. What do you But some others . . . well, we wonder fogey standards. Lots of skin, cleavage, [mentor] think?” Remember, your men- if they missed some basic life-training. tight clothes, and so forth are a distrac- tor may be giving a reference, and she We cringe at a sense of entitlement. We tion and, in our eyes, undermine your would love to be able to say wonderful find that the mentee is long on requests professional appearance. things about your organizational skills and short on appreciation. She doesn’t and your focus. Emily Post, where are you? seem to understand how to best use our Stay in touch time. We don’t hear from her unless she We love it when you send a hand- needs something, and sometimes we wish written note straight from the heart. It Mentors like to hear from mentees she’d move on. doesn’t have to be long. The fact that when you don’t need anything. An email We assume that even these mentees you thought about how to say “thank or card sharing a success, a set back, an would want the relationship to be differ- you” and took the time to write a note, update on life, or a photo says to the ent. Here are a few suggestions: address an envelope, and find a stamp mentor that you value the connection. counts for a lot. Mentors feel that the primary job of Is it a match? We like to be asked to write a letter of staying in touch falls on the mentee. A successful mentor/mentee relation- recommendation (not commanded) and We don’t move around much. You do. ship starts with a mutual interest between to be given the name, title, and address Stay in touch! the individuals and compatible personali- of the person to whom we are writing These are only a few of the thoughtful ties. The relationship should be enriching and enough lead time to fit it into our comments that came out of our discus- for both people. Since mentees are usu- schedule. It is helpful if the mentee writes sion; many more are available. Stay tuned ally the ones seeking out the relationship, talking points that we can build on—we as OWLS gages interest from the member- we advise you to choose carefully. You like it when you think about how to make ship about the possibility of providing a may have different mentors for different it easy for us to help. program on this important issue. purposes: one for your legal specialty, one Mentors also like to be asked to help for your aspirations (becoming a judge, when it’s a good time for us. Going out Susan Hammer is a mediator, an attorney, for example), one for navigating law firm to lunch can be a big chunk out of our and a mentor. A longtime member of politics or finding work/family balance, day when coffee or an office visit might OWLS, she is committed to supporting and one for advice on meaningful and suffice. If you ask a mentor out for coffee, women in the legal profession.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 12 SPRING 2009 Janet Stauffer Runs Winter LEG-UPs Address Financial Planning for Dufur School Board By Maiya Hall and Tamsen Leachman By Heather L. Weigler he OWLS LEG-Up events on February 12 and March 12 W L S Tin Portland addressed financial planning issues. Omember In February, Carole Ann White of Carole White Financial Janet Stauffer Services discussed the components of a financial plan that is seeking a are relevant to people in the early stages of their careers, spot on the the options available as you develop your plan, and the Dufur School considerations that affect decisions you make along the Board in the way. She spoke about the importance of budgeting, long- M a y 2 0 0 9 and short-term savings, and staying true to your values. In election. She a presentation interwoven with comments and questions d e c i d e d t o from the audience, Carole explained many aspects of finan- run after at- cial planning in terms that everyone could understand. Alice Tang At the March LEG-Up, Alice Tang, vice president of the tending the Janet Stauffer Business Planning Group in Clackamas, asked the attendees, “What is keeping you up first session of at night?” Not surprisingly, many mentioned the recent downturn in the economy. the 2009 Oregon State Bar Leadership Alice helped the group put recent events in perspective by providing powerful ex- College. “I found it really inspiring, and amples of prior economic downturns and the importance of reacting logically and the local school board election seemed carefully rather than emotionally. She also suggested steps we could take to reframe like a good place to start.” long-term goals and the paths to achieving them. Janet graduated from the University of Alice discussed personal financial stability and how to attain it, outlining various Washington School of Law in 1986 and choices and showing us how much our future is affected by decisions we make today. now practices collection law with her She also talked about fear and how we can be our own worst enemy when it comes to husband of 20 years, James K. Woods, in financial decisions. Alice reminded us that we have the ability to make good choices Dufur. Dufur School is a K–12 of about if we become active in our own financial planning and management. 280 students in Wasco County, attended A heartfelt thanks to the speakers and to our generous hosts, Tonkon Torp and by their two sons and their 18-year-old Barran Liebman, for providing space and delicious refreshments. daughter, Ellen. Ellen, now a senior, started high school with a class of 38 Maiya Hall has joined the law firm of Alan K. Karpinski. Tamsen Leachman is a partner students. Only 18 (47%) are expected to at Dunn Carney Allen Higgins & Tongue. Both are in Portland. graduate this spring. “I’m running for school board to help keep kids in school,” Janet explained. “We need to find out why kids drop out or leave Dufur School.” She wants to make sure that enough classes are offered to keep students engaged in learning. Janet has volunteered as a teacher’s aide at all grade levels, fundraised for student events and college scholarships, and next year will serve as a substitute teacher. For six years she served on the St. Mary’s Academy School Board in The Dalles, two years as board chair. Voters in the Dufur School District ap- proved a bond in last November’s election to increase educational opportunities for high school students by improving the school’s facilities. “Over the next two years, the high school will be remodeled with a new kitchen, cafeteria, and shop building,” Janet said. Safety hazards have decreased opportunities for welding and agriculture classes. “Those classes are really important to students in our area,” Janet said. “I’m excited for the opportunity to be a part of improving Dufur School.” For more about Janet and her candi- dacy, you can contact her at jlstauffer@ ortelco.net.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 13 SPRING 2009 Agnes Sowle: An OWLS Founding Mother By Hon. Jill Tanner gnes Sowle, the Multnomah Coun- Agnes returned to Boise, Idaho, in In between ty attorney since her appointment 1972, where she managed a bar that her profes- Ain 2003, knows that tough legal lawyers frequented. Those acquaintances, sional obliga- decisions are made easier when “it’s the good and bad, and her love of lawyer- tions, Agnes law.” One of the primary functions of a centered television shows like Perry pursues her county attorney is to issue legal opinions. Mason and The Defenders, in her words, i n t e r e s t i n A legal opinion that Agnes issued in “sowed the seed” for her legal career. A art, specifi- March 2004 concluded that not granting marriage, followed by the birth of her son cally, in using marriage licenses to same-sex couples and three years in Illinois, delayed her gourds as a in Multnomah County was a violation pursuit of a college degree. After return- medium. She of the Oregon Constitution. To those ing once again to Idaho, Agnes earned is particularly who thanked her, Agnes’s matter-of-fact her college degree while raising her son. interested in Agnes Sowle response was, “It’s the law.” Law school at the University of Idaho t h e d e s i g n As a result of that decision, Agnes followed. One-third of her classmates elements of Pueblo Indian pottery. In became both famous and infamous to were women, and many were mothers. keeping with her passion for excellence, Oregonians who did not know her.* Agnes met the challenge of a rigorous Agnes’s self-taught skills earned her an in- To OWLS members, however, she was legal education but was disappointed vitation to participate in a “juried show” already well known and loved as one when many of her women classmates in 2004, and she now participates in two of our founding mothers. Following in dropped out. or three shows each year. Sometimes the footsteps of her dear friend and Agnes opened her law practice in Agnes will be so absorbed in creating OWLS’ first president, Katherine O’Neil, Moscow, Idaho, in 1982. While growing pieces that she will work on them 20 or Agnes served two years as OWLS’ sec- her practice, she taught business law at 30 hours a week. Her other leisure-time ond president, after having drafted the Washington State University and the passion is whitewater rafting; her most OWLS bylaws and been elected its first University of Idaho. In 1984 Agnes was memorable excursion was a 19-day trip corporate secretary. elected president of the county bar as- down the Colorado River. Agnes’s personal history serves as sociation. She created the Idaho State Agnes credits OWLS members with a real-life example of her belief that Bar series of legal information programs creating a better working environment anyone can overcome obstacles—and for nonlawyers in northern Idaho in for women. She encourages OWLS to she has. Agnes was raised in Oklahoma 1984–1985. continue working to reduce the barriers and Idaho by two alcoholic parents who, Agnes’s move to Oregon in 1987 and encountered by women and to maintain despite their addiction, managed to her employment as a commercial litigator its image as a supportive professional work, living paycheck to paycheck. The for a firm that rented space to Kather- organization. Agnes encourages all of us only expectation set for Agnes was that ine O’Neil and her husband, Toby Graff, to take ethics and professionalism very she marry someone who could take care netted her a lifetime friendship. Agnes seriously. She strongly believes that we of her. In her senior year of high school, credits Katherine with not only “opening are all fortunate to participate in the legal Agnes dropped out. She traveled around doors, but taking my hand and urging profession and it is our obligation to give the United States, worked odd jobs, me through.” She recalls that as a new back to it. While giving, she concludes, we eventually received a GED, and took col- attorney with no connections to the city all receive. Agnes knows from firsthand lege courses when she scraped together or state, she was fortunate to be intro- experience that it is difficult to balance career and family, but she says that doing enough money and stayed long enough duced to members of the Multnomah something you enjoy in support of OWLS in one place. Bar Association Committee on the Status should tip the scales in favor of finding of Women, “a group of extraordinary time to volunteer. women attorneys, many of whom became OWLS extends a special thank-you to role models.” The Portland chapter of Agnes for sharing her talents with us, and Consider supporting OWLS, Queen’s Bench, will always have we wish her continued success. OWLS’ work by placing a special place in her memories because an ad in the AdvanceSheet. of the “immediate welcome” and social/ *At a trial challenging the county’s ac- professional network it provided her tion, Judge Frank Bearden agreed that when she first arrived in Portland. denial of same-sex marriage licenses was a Your ad will reach A gentle but persistent nudge from violation of the Oregon Constitution. The 1500 attorneys, judges, Toby Graff encouraged Agnes to share Oregon Supreme Court reversed on other and others who support her leadership skills with the Oregon grounds. The constitutionality was never fully litigated before a measure amend- State Bar. She served on the OSB Board Oregon Women Lawyers. ing the Oregon Constitution to state that of Governors in 1997–2001, and in her only marriage between one man and one Contact us at 503.595.7831 or final year she was its vice president. After woman is valid was passed by the Oregon a short break, Agnes joined the boards voters. [email protected]. of the Multnomah Bar Association and the Oregon Law Institute, serving from Hon. Jill Tanner is the presiding magis- 2003 through 2006. trate of the Oregon Tax Court.

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 14 SPRING 2009 Ending the Gauntlet Removing Barriers to Women’s Success in the Law By Lauren Stiller Rikleen (Thomson/Legalworks, 2006) Book Review by Cashauna Hill nding the Gauntlet is an easy-to- not) affect women’s careers; mentoring These strategies include the following: read manual for women attorneys opportunities for women within firms; s $EVELOPEFFECTIVELEADERS Ehoping to achieve success in private the “conflict between work needs and s -EASURE JOB PERFORMANCE IN A practice. Part One “identifies the gauntlet family responsibilities”; the part-time/ gender-neutral way. that women experience—the challenges full-time tension, as many women at- s 2EDUCETHElRMSUSEOFTHEBILLABLE and roadblocks they face as they struggle tempt to reduce their hours in order to hour to generate fees and measure to succeed in law firms.” Part Two “weaves pursue other interests; and the impact performance. If retaining the billable together the voices and issues unique to of a reduced-hours schedule on chances hour, minimize its negative effects. women and the often divergent perspec- for partnership. s $EVELOPACOMPENSATIONSYSTEMTHAT tive of the Managing Partners.” Part Three In Part Two, Ms. Rikleen broaches the rewards what the firm values. “sets forth recommendations for change, subject of diversity and the richness it s (ELPWOMENDEVELOPTHEIRSKILLSAT describing concrete actions which law brings to any workplace. She also shares generating business. firms can implement.” comments from managing partners she s !NALYZETHECOSTSASSOCIATEDWITH If Ending the Gauntlet has one fault, interviewed, noting that “a significant attorney recruitment, retention, it is that much of the information and disconnect exists between those who run and attrition. anecdotes pertain to large firms. As Ms. law firms and those who work in them.” s $EVELOPSTRATEGIESTOINCREASETHE Rikleen notes, however, large firms often One problem, she says, is that most man- retention of associates. serve as models for the profession’s man- aging partners see business development s $EVELOPPOLICIESANDPRACTICESTHAT agement and progress. Thus attorneys at as a gender-neutral issue, which means assist families. small and medium-sized firms may also there is no problem to fix. This failure to Ending the Gauntlet is a fascinating find valuable lessons in this book. note the reality of gender politics ignores and thought-provoking book for women The author provides a holistic look at what many women experience daily. attorneys and those interested in seeing the problems many women lawyers face: Part Three provides strategies for “end- them succeed. lack of professional fulfillment, uncer- ing the gauntlet,” describing tangible Cashauna Hill, an OWLS board member, tainty about their future and position at practices that law firms can implement to is the fair housing staff attorney at the their firms, and the challenge of serving foster women’s success in the workplace. Oregon Law Center in Portland. themselves and the needs of their families as well as their clients. These problems, Ms. Rikleen notes, manifest themselves in many ways, particularly in women’s higher-than-average attrition rates at private law firms. Ms. Rikleen argues that the legal profession underwent a “radical trans- formation” from “overt” exclusion to “benign” exclusion of women as they entered in ever-increasing numbers. Part One’s central thesis is that “short-sighted decisions and flawed management structures” currently permeating the profession continue to make law firms an “inhospitable environment for women.” As a result, women are often excluded from decision making and information sharing at firms, and partners at some firms refuse to give female attorneys plum assignments. The billable hour is, predictably, a topic of much discussion in Ending the Gauntlet. According to the women sur- veyed, billing hours in the 2,000–2,400 range is not reasonable and requires con- stant work, which leads to less personal and family time for women and, often, high levels of stress. Other topics Ms. Rikleen explores are “rainmaking” and the way it may (or may

OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 15 SPRING 2009 “Road to the Bench” Visits Salem By Lora Keenan uck is where opportunity meets Judge James’s employment law practice, s #ONNECTWITHYOURCOMMUNITY,EGAL preparation,” Judge Katherine including acting as a mediator and coun- and bar connections are important, “LTennyson noted at the February 12 seling clients about how to effectively including local bar associations, meeting of the Mary Leonard Law Soci- resolve disputes. your law school, Inns of Court, and ety, the OWLS chapter in Salem. Some Heather Van Meter, who practices with OWLS (of course!). Other types of variation of that observation has been Williams Kastner in Portland and has community connections should not mentioned by several speakers at MLLS’s worked with various OWLS programs for be overlooked and are often key to recent programs focusing establishing crucial connec- on the theme “Empowering tions with voters. Examples Women, Engaging in Leader- include Rotary, Girls Scouts, ship.” Many leadership roles and even your children’s sports exist, and countless trails have teams. As Judge James advised, been blazed to success in those “Demonstrate that you’re part roles. On February 12, Judge of the community where you Tennyson, Judge Mary James, want to be a judge.” and OWLS Co–President-elect s "ROADEN YOUR EXPERIENCE Heather Van Meter spoke Few lawyers have extensive

about their perspectives on Photo by Jodee Jackson experience in every area that the “Road to the Bench.” Left to right: Heather Van Meter, Judge Mary James, judges handle. Cultivating Judge Tennyson is presently and Judge Katherine Tennyson several practice areas, however, the chief probate judge for is good preparation for the Oregon’s Fourth Judicial District (Multno- lawyers interested in the bench, noted bench. Courtroom work is key. If mah County) Circuit Court. As she noted, the importance of politics in the judicial your firm offers few opportunities state court judges in Oregon initially selection process. Prospective judges to do trial work, look for pro bono are either appointed by the governor should understand the politics of the opportunities. Also, keep good re- or elected to an open seat, and whether judicial district in which they would like cords of the cases you’ve tried and a seat will be filled by appointment or to serve. Governors can vary in terms of the names of opposing counsel. election depends on the timing of the their commitment to appointing women s #ULTIVATERESPECT4HEOPINIONSOF vacancy. Judge Tennyson was elected and minorities, Heather pointed out. She those who know your work well to an open seat in 2002. She said the stressed the importance of mentors and can be crucial to an election or political work she had done early in her encouraged looking for mentors among appointment. Sometimes the most career was integral to her election: she people you already know. revealing information about you knew how campaigns worked and whom The panelists offered many other can come from opposing counsel to hire as campaign staff. insights and tips for those considering or your support staff. Judge James was appointed to the pursuing a judgeship, including these: MLLS is grateful to these panelists for circuit court bench in Oregon’s Third s +NOW YOURSELF 4ALK WITH CURRENT sharing their thoughts on how interested Judicial District (Marion County) in 2003; judges, consult the OWLS publica- lawyers can be prepared when a judicial her docket consists of a mix of family, tion Road to the Bench, and hon- opportunity presents itself. criminal, and civil cases. A judge’s primary estly assess whether the judiciary A Road to the Bench presentation will role, she noted, is to solve problems is the place for you. Ask yourself, be held in Portland on April 24; see page 1 that people cannot solve themselves. “Why do I want to be a judge?” and for details. To obtain an electronic copy of She has observed that governors look “What would I bring to the job?” the Road to the Bench handbook, email closely for sensitivity and patience, or Write down the answers. This exer- [email protected]. “judicial temperament.” Opportunities cise will be invaluable preparation to develop problem-solving skills and for interviews by the Governor’s Lora Keenan is a staff attorney with the judicial temperament abounded in Office. Oregon Court of Appeals.

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OREGON WOMEN LAWYERS AdvanceSheet 16 SPRING 2009