Day Two: "It was good" Part 1

Part 1:

Day Two of the Atlanta session of Leadership America started early, boarding the bus at 7:30 a.m. to head to the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta for our morning programming.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta was so hospitable to the LA class and we took so much from our morning there. From breakfast with Dr. Joanna Adams to session with economists looking at health care and its effects on our economy, we left with such information.

Dr. Joanna Adams topic was on "Equity, Justice and a Moral Vision - Components of a Flourishing Society" and left us with our hearts full and ready for "active righteousness." As a clergywoman for 30 years, Dr. Adams has been a leader renewing life and giving new direction for communities. As a "speaker of justice" she spoke on two topics, human flourishing and moral vision. She spoke of Atlanta native, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and how he was not interested in pointing fingers but wanted more than anything reconciliation to build a cohesive community. Something we can all learn from Dr. King. We left inspired to build our moral goals and return no evil for evil.

Next, we heard from economists on the state of our economy and how health care will fit in this time of rebuilding. The economist led our discussion with a panel of three different business leaders and their models for health care. Anna Cablick, President, Anatek, Inc.; Stephanie Perilli, Senior Director, Medical and Health Management, Home Depot; and, Belinda Stubblefield, President, WineStyles Cascade. Each gave their perspective as a decision maker on health care for their employees. From small business to large corporations, the need for more flexible health care options. The discussion quickly turned thoughts of combining small businesses in to a larger group benefit to bring down costs. This is easier said than done, but could be the best way for now to get insurance. Across the board, retention of employees was based on whether health care was available. Perilli, from Home Depot, spoke on the multiple wellness initiatives she and her team started in the following topics: physical fitness, nutrition, weight management, quit smoking and screening/immunizations. Thanks again to the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta!

Next stop, The Carter Center, where were greeted by President and CEO, John Hardman, MD. Hardman discussed some great initiatives The Carter Center is a part of, including improved sanitation and hygiene are critical to public health and overall development. As part of the Center's trachoma control efforts, more than 1 million household latrines have been constructed in the Amhara region with Carter Center assistance since 2002.

Part II will be posted tomorrow, with throughts from the health organizations, universities and doctors about where health care reform will lead our nation.