How to Disaster

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"Home ownership is about stability. Homeownership is about building wealth. Homeownership is about families. But if you don't have a clear title, you don't know if that stability is going to be there." —Tim Carpenter

 

Disaster strikes, but for some, the real battle is just beginning. Millions of homes across the US are caught in a tangled web of heirs property— families without clear title to their generational land. This legal limbo leaves them vulnerable to losing everything. Thus, understanding the challenges of heirs' property is crucial for supporting vulnerable populations in the aftermath of crises.

Tim Carpenter is a seasoned disaster recovery expert at Fannie Mae, with over 25 years of experience navigating the complexities of post-disaster housing. As the leader of Fannie Mae's disaster response team, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to serving impacted communities.

Tune in as Tim talks about the critical issue of heirs' property, Fannie Mae's efforts to address it, and the holistic approach needed for effective disaster recovery. 

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

 

Highlights:

• 00:22 Spelling Fire 
• 05:33 What is Heirs Property
• 12:17 Is Heirs Property Applicable in All States? 
• 17:41 The Here to Help Network   
• 22:00 Stability and Wealth Matters

 

👨🏻‍💼Meet Tim Carpenter, Director of Disaster Recovery & Resilience, Fannie Mae

Tim Carpenter is a long-time employee at Fannie Mae, with over 25 years of experience at the organization. As a disaster expert, Carpenter has been deeply involved in Fannie Mae's efforts to support communities affected by major disasters, such as hurricanes Harvey, Maria, and the Tubbs fire. 

Carpenter has been instrumental in driving Fannie Mae's initiatives to develop new products and services to better assist homeowners and communities in navigating the recovery process. His expertise and dedication have been invaluable in Fannie Mae's holistic approach to disaster response and community support.

 

Connect with Fannie Mae:

• Website:https://www.fanniemae.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fanniemae 
• X: https://twitter.com/FannieMae 
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/officialfanniemae 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fannie-mae-corporation_19722  

 

 👩🏻‍💼Meet Jennifer Gray Thompson, MPA, Founder & CEO of After the Fire USA

Jennifer Gray Thompson, named one of Forbes' "50 over 50" IMPACT Leaders in 2022, has led Rebuild North Bay Foundation since January 2018, transforming it into a national leader in mega fire recovery. A lifelong Sonoma Valley resident, she holds a master's degree in Public Administration from USC and has worked for the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. Post-2017 North Bay fires, she became Executive Director of RNBF, which aids wildfire-affected communities across the American West. As CEO, she developed the Wildfire Resiliency Network and Survivor Deployment Model, advocated for federal policies, and hosted national Wildfire Leadership summits. Jennifer also created the "How to Disaster" podcast and serves on boards supporting Latino communities and first responders' mental health.

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"How you frame your argument is how you get them to listen." —Jeff Okrepkie

 

"We're willing to help anybody out that is going through this now or in the future." —Steve Crowder 

 

"There's no playbook when it comes to a wildfire… Be ready, because you know this is going to impact you at some point, maybe not directly but you will be." —Kevin Goss

 

"There is a next step, and we just have to keep moving forward." —Jenn Kaaoush

 

Disaster can strike anyone, even those sworn to serve the public. Yet, in the face of unimaginable loss, these community leaders refuse to be silenced. They're taking their fight to the halls of Congress, forging bipartisan bonds to secure critical aid and resources for megafire recovery.

Meet the panel: Council Members Steve Crowder (Town of Paradise), Jenn Kaaoush (Town of Superior), Jeff Okrepkie (City of Santa Rosa, and Founder of Coffey Strong), and Kevin Goss (Chair of the Board of Supervisors, County of Plumas) — survivors who've transformed their pain into powerful advocacy. 

Tune in as Jennifer Gray Thompson guides the discussion on the importance of advocacy and building relationships with federal legislators to address the unique challenges faced by megafire communities while emphasizing the value of having a "seat at the table" and the need for continued collaboration and support.

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 02:12 Purpose: How to Advocate for Your Community
• 04:07 Meet Jeff Okrepkie, Steve Crowder, Kevin Goss, Jenn Kaaoush
• 12:30 The Bipartisan Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, 5863
• 18:02 Ask a Seat at the Table Where Decisions Are Made
• 23:10 Where Party Don't Matter

 

Meet the Panel: 

👨🏻‍💼Steve Crowder, Councilmember, Town of Paradise

Steve Crowder was first elected to serve on the Town Council on November 6, 2018. Council Member Crowder was then reelected on November 8, 2022 to serve a subsequent four-year term.

Prior to running for Council, Steve served on numerous Stakeholder Committees for the Town, including, The Beautification, Business License, and Sewer Committee, as well as well as serving as a board member for the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce.

Steve has been a Paradise resident since 2013. He and his wife own an embroidery and shirt printing business and serve the community through participation in fraternal and service organizations, such as the Paradise Moose Lodge, Paradise Rotary Club, and the Paradise Parade of Flags. 

Steve and his wife Lori have 3 children and 4 grandchildren and are both heavily involved in the community.

 

👨🏻‍💼Kevin Goss, Chair of the Board of Supervisors, County of Plumas

Kevin Goss is the Plumas County Supervisor of District Two, which encompasses the largest district in Plumas County, including the community of Greenville. Goss has served as a county supervisor for 12 years and has been a key leader in the recovery efforts following the Dixie Fire, the single-largest wildfire in California state history. Goss has been actively involved in federal advocacy efforts, working alongside organizations like After the Fire to ensure the needs of his fire-impacted community are heard in Washington, D.C. With over a decade of experience in local government, Goss brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to supporting his constituents through the challenges of disaster recovery.

 

👩🏻‍💼 Jenn Kaaoush, Councilmember, Town of Superior

As a Councilwoman for the Town of Superior and former Director of Superior Rising, Kaaoush has been a dedicated advocate for her community since the 2021 Marshall Fire, streamlining processes, sourcing funds, and pushing for state and federal support. She has joined After The Fire USA to advocate for fire survivors, supported the Lahaina recovery, and leveraged her experiences as a fourth-generation Veteran and former Diplomat to connect disaster recovery efforts internationally.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkaaoush/ 

👨🏻‍💼Jeff Okrepkie, Councilmember, City of Santa Rosa / Founder of Coffey Strong

Jeff Okrepkie is a dedicated public servant, currently serving as a council member for the City of Santa Rosa. His passion for community service is evident through his co-founding of Coffey Strong, an initiative aimed at supporting fire recovery efforts. Jeff's contributions to disaster recovery and economic development have earned him recognition and respect within his community. He holds a B.A. in Human Communication from Arizona State University and several professional certifications in insurance.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffokrepkie/ 
• Connect with Coffey Strong: 
• Website: https://coffeystrong.com/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coffeyparkstrong/ 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

This recovery is slow, it's painful, and it's costly. We need patience, and aloha, and support because we're all in this together."  —Angus McKelvey

 

"We have a lot of challenges moving forward, and it's figuring out the strategy of how we're going to approach it. And once you get that strategy, you have to figure out how do we get it to implementation." —Troy Hashimoto

 

Disaster recovery is not just about the visible on-the-ground efforts - it also involves complex state-level decisions and coordination that can make or break a community's rebuilding journey. Senators and state legislators play a crucial role in securing funding, navigating bureaucracy, and setting the stage for long-term resilience. Yet, their perspectives are often overlooked in the midst of the chaos.

In this discussion, Sonoma County Supervisor Elect Rebecca Hermosillo interviews Hawaii District 5 Senate Senator Troy Hashimoto and Hawaii District 6 State Senator Angus Mckelvey to unpack the unseen challenges and strategic considerations they've faced in supporting the Lahaina community after the devastating wildfires. 

From grappling with budget constraints and insurance crises to spearheading temporary housing solutions and advocating for permanent rebuilding, these elected officials offer a unique insider's view on the state's role in disaster recovery. Tune in to hear their insights and learn how state-level leadership can make a lasting impact on communities in crisis.

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 03:01 Challenges in the Aftermath of the Fires
• 14:12 State and County Collaboration
• 17:47 Lesson Learned for Future Plans
• 21:10 Keep Moving Forward
• 26:32 Working with the Community

 

Meet the Moderator: 

👩🏻‍💼 Rebecca Hermosillo, Supervisor Elect, County of Sonoma

Rebecca Hermosillo is the First District Supervisor Elect for Sonoma County. With over 11 years of experience in public service, she has been instrumental in community engagement and policy implementation. Rebecca's dedication to her community is evident through her active involvement in local organizations, including the boards of Pepperwood Preserve and Speedway Children's Charities. Her journey from the daughter of Mexican immigrants to a prominent public servant highlights her commitment to improving the lives of those in her community

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-hermosillo-2a2651157/ 

 

Meet the Panel: 

👨🏻‍💼Troy Hashimoto, Hawaii State Senator - District 5

Troy Hashimoto is a State Senator representing Central Maui, the neighboring district to Lahaina which was devastated by the recent wildfires. Prior to becoming a State Senator, Hashimoto served as the Chair of the Housing Committee in the Hawaii House of Representatives. 

In his current role, Hashimoto has been deeply involved in the legislative response and recovery efforts for the Lahaina community. He has also worked to secure state funding for infrastructure rebuilding, temporary housing solutions, and long-term housing strategies in the burn zone.

Drawing on his previous experience in housing policy, Hashimoto has emphasized the critical importance of addressing the housing crisis exacerbated by the fires, in order to support the repopulation and rebuilding of Lahaina. He has worked closely with the Maui County government to coordinate the state's recovery efforts and ensure they align with the community's needs and long-term vision.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troy-hashimoto-b398523/ 

 

👨🏻‍💼Angus McKelvey, Hawaii State Senator - District 6

Angus McKelvey is a State Senator in Hawaii who represents the Lahaina community, which was devastated by the recent wildfires. As a first-term senator, he has been deeply involved in the recovery and rebuilding efforts of his constituents. Senator McKelvey was personally affected by the fires and has been working closely with the local community and government officials to address the immediate needs and long-term challenges facing Lahaina. He has emphasized the importance of sustained support and patience from the state legislature as the community navigates the slow and costly recovery process. With his firsthand experience and commitment to his district, Senator McKelvey is playing a key role in guiding the state's response and ensuring the Lahaina community is not forgotten.

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"Trust is so important to building a community of practice. And part of that trust comes from understanding where people are and where they stand." —Michael McCormick

 

"Once the scene is stabilized and we start to clean things up, and then there comes a point where we start rebuilding things… and that's when the long-term recovery begins." —Matt McRae

 

"There are simultaneous disasters occurring at the same time everywhere, and you never know what's going to hit you at that time, and you have to be prepared for it all. Anything and everything that could come, you have to be ready for." —Heather Buch

 

Building a strong, collaborative community of practice could be a game-changer for long-term disaster recovery efforts. By connecting experts, local leaders, and frontline responders, this type of network has the potential to streamline resource-sharing, accelerate rebuilding timelines, and empower communities to bounce back stronger after catastrophic events. Establishing these vital peer-to-peer connections is crucial, especially as communities increasingly face the compounding challenges of climate change.

Facilitating the discussion are Farallon Strategies President Michael McCormick, Lane County District 5 Commissioner Heather Buch, and Lane County's Long-Term Recovery Manager Matt McRae

The workshop covered a wide range of topics, from the differences between emergency response and long-term community development to the need for better resource-sharing and peer-to-peer mentorship. Participants also engaged in interactive exercises and a lively Q&A session, underscoring the hunger for this type of collaborative network.

Don't miss your chance to learn their strategies and get inspired to make a difference in your community. Listen now to the full discussion.

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 00:21 Reducing Risk and Recovering Better
• 04:04 Workshop: Tracing Back Connections
• 08:33 Response vs Recovery
• 12:33 Competing Issues at Play
• 19:30 What Makes a Production Network Possible 
• 21:08 Workshop: Finding Value in Need 
• 23:18 Q&A

 

👨🏻‍💼Meet Michael McCormick, President, Farallon Strategies

Michael McCormick, AICP, is the Partnerships Lead, Founder, and President of Farallon Strategies, LLC, a California-based advisory, policy, and management consulting firm focused on climate change solutions and community resilience. 

With experience across local, regional, state, and federal levels, as well as in non-profit, business, and government sectors, Michael leverages his diverse background to create interconnected governance strategies. He leads various initiatives, including work with the CSU Chancellor's Office, the California Resilience Partnership, and CivicWell, and serves as an advisor and board member for multiple organizations. 

Michael also teaches climate change, land use, and resilience at UC Davis and has held significant roles in local planning, consulting, and government, including serving in Governor Brown's Office and the White House Council on Environmental Quality.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccormickplanner/ 

 

Connect with Farallon Strategies: 

• Website: https://farallonstrategies.com/ 

 

👩🏻‍💼Meet Heather Buch, Commissioner, District 5, Lane County

Heather Buch is a dedicated public servant currently serving as a County Commissioner for Lane County, Oregon, since 2019. She has been instrumental in leading the county through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Holiday Farm Fire. Heather's leadership extends to securing critical funding for disaster recovery and advocating for affordable housing. She holds a bachelor's degree from Seattle University and has a background in real estate and non-profit work. Heather is also actively involved in various regional and national committees, focusing on transportation and community development.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherbuch/ 

 

👨🏻‍💼Meet Matt McRae, Long Term Recovery Manager, Lane County

Matt McRae is the Long Term Disaster Recovery Manager at Lane County Government in Eugene, Oregon. In this role, he oversees the planning and implementation of recovery strategies to help the community rebuild and recover from disasters. His work involves coordinating with various stakeholders, managing resources, and ensuring that recovery efforts are efficient and effective. Matt's expertise in disaster management and his commitment to community resilience make him a key figure in Lane County's efforts to mitigate the impacts of natural and man-made disasters.

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-mcrae-a245508/ 

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"It's not enough just to give, you have to always receive as well with the same grace and gratitude and aloha." —Jennifer Gray Thompson

 

"Aloha is boundless, and we know that Aloha reaches all shores and all states. Even in the most trying of times together, we are one team."  —Mahina Martin

 

Welcome to the final day of the 2024 Wildfire Leadership Summit. We're so glad you could join us for this last session— it's been an incredible few days filled with insightful discussions, powerful presentations, and meaningful connections. 

Today, we have an exciting lineup of speakers and workshops that are sure to leave you feeling inspired and empowered in your important work. This community of wildfire leaders is truly special, and we are honored that we get to learn from each other one last time. 

With that, let's get started on an amazing final day as Jennifer shares the importance of reciprocal care and community support, the need to create a formalized support system and database for disaster recovery experts, the challenges of funding long-term recovery efforts, and the goal of making it easier for communities to access the help they need during disaster recovery.

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 00:45 Maui One Year Later
• 07:46 Listen to Your Music
• 11:54 The Voice of the Future
• 18:46 Give and Learn to Receive
• 23:39 A Path Forward
• 27:10 Servant Leader, Not a Hero 

 

👩🏻‍💼Meet Jennifer Gray Thompson, MPA, Founder & CEO of After the Fire USA

Jennifer Gray Thompson, named one of Forbes' "50 over 50" IMPACT Leaders in 2022, has led Rebuild North Bay Foundation since January 2018, transforming it into a national leader in megafire recovery. A lifelong Sonoma Valley resident, she holds a master's degree in Public Administration from USC and has worked for the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. Post-2017 North Bay fires, she became Executive Director of RNBF, which aids wildfire-affected communities across the American West. As CEO, she developed the Wildfire Resiliency Network and Survivor Deployment Model, advocated for federal policies, and hosted national Wildfire Leadership summits. Jennifer also created the "How to Disaster" podcast and serves on boards supporting Latino communities and first responders' mental health.

 

👩🏻‍💼Meet Mahina Martin, Director of Public Affairs, Maui

Mahina Martin is the Director of Public Affairs for the County of Maui in Hawaii. In this role, she leads the county's public outreach and communication efforts, particularly during times of crisis and disaster recovery. Mahina played a key leadership role in coordinating Maui's remembrance and healing activities for the one-year anniversary of the devastating West Maui fires in 2022. Through her work, Mahina has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting her community and upholding the cultural values of aloha and resilience in the face of adversity. Her collaborative approach and ability to bring people together have been instrumental in Maui's recovery efforts.

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

Episode Description: 

 "Indigenous values can shift how we deal with disasters." —Kainoa Horcajo

 

Disaster recovery isn't just about rebuilding infrastructure— it's about honoring the deep connections between people and place. Principles like reciprocity, collective responsibility, and deep connection to the land can shape a more compassionate and community-centered approach to rebuilding after crises. By honoring these time-tested philosophies, we unlock powerful pathways to healing and resilience.

Kainoa Horcajo is a cultural practitioner and consultant who has dedicated his career to sharing the wisdom of Native Hawaiian traditions. As the founder of The Mo'olelo Group, he provides training and guidance to organizations seeking to integrate Indigenous perspectives into their work.

Listen in as Kainoa delves into the role of Hawaiian values like kuleana, ohana, and aloha in shaping disaster response and recovery, the importance of cultural connections and local identity, the application of indigenous principles throughout the entire disaster pipeline, the significance of rites of passage and community support, and the meaning of aloha as the "how" in disaster work. 

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

 

Highlights:

• 02:50 What You Say Becomes Your Reality
• 08:04 Focus on FInding Connection First
• 13:17 Indigenous Values in Disaster Recovery 
• 19:33 'We' is Greater Than 'Me'
• 24:03 The WHOLE Community Approach

 

👨🏻‍💼Meet Kainoa Horcajo, Owner, The Mo'olelo Group

Kainoa Horcajo is a Cultural Consultant, Storyteller, Speaker, Writer, and Actor based in Wailuku, Hawaii. He is the Principal Owner of The Mo'olelo Group, a multidisciplinary consultancy specializing in Cultural Integration, Community Outreach, Communications, and Experience design. With a background in International Relations from the University of San Diego, Kainoa has held significant roles such as Director of Culture at Grand Wailea and Hawaiian Cultural Ambassador. His work focuses on applying indigenous knowledge systems to corporate structures and the hospitality industry, fostering a deeper understanding and connection with Hawaiian culture, history, and people.

• Website: https://www.moolelogroup.com/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kainoa-horcajo-12079263/ 

 

• 2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT
  

 

Episode Description: 

"We are making a change and we are making a difference, and it all starts with culture." —Kukui Keahi

"[The silver lining] is neighbors helping neighbors." —Melissa Baurer

"Our mission is simple: provide beautiful, healthful, love-filled food so that those experiencing crisis can have the strength to do the next hard thing. Food is just the first step." —Amber Ferguson

 "I was tired of cash being the most valuable thing, and what really drove decisions. And I started to dive into experiments on how we re-evaluate caring and bring it up as a currency." —Nicole Huguenin

"If you don't have the most vulnerable at the round table, invite them in, because if they're not there, we're going to continuously design programs that fail. And if we catch the most vulnerable, we will catch everyone else." —Rebekah Uccellini-Kuby

 

Disasters often hit vulnerable communities the hardest, but grassroots leaders are stepping up to meet their unique needs. From providing essential resources to fostering community resilience, these frontline responders are redefining disaster recovery. 

Moderating the discussion is Lorez Bailey, who shares her own experience supporting youth in the aftermath of the Sonoma County fires. Joining her on the panel are Nicole Huguenin of Maui Rapid Response, Amber Ferguson of Rogue Food Unites, Melissa Baurer of Santiam Hospital, Kukui Keahi of Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, and Rebekah Uccellini-Kuby of Makai Foundation. 

 

Tune in as these inspiring leaders delve into the challenges of identifying vulnerable populations, overcoming systemic obstacles, practicing self-care, and finding silver linings in the midst of crisis.

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 00:22 Be Careful of Mission Drift
• 03:54 Meet Rebekah, Kukui, Nicole, Amber, and Melissa  
• 16:13 How to Identify the Vulnerable and Their Needs   
• 30:59 Self-Care for the Helpers 
• 35:13 Silver Linings

 

Meet the Moderator:

👩🏻‍💼 Lorez Bailey, Community Leader

Lorez Bailey is an Executive Officer at Chop's Teen Club. Her charm is in being charismatic, analytical, problem-solver, and effective communicator who has a successful 10-year track record of effectively leading organizations and teams, and a history of developing and operationalized strategies that have taken organizations to the next stage of growth, while building a culture of high expectations, inclusivity, collaboration, and a little fun never hurts. 

• LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorez-bailey-221778100

 

Connect with Chops Teen Club: 

• Website: https://www.chopsteenclub.org/  
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/341599776289226 
• X: https://x.com/chopsteenclub 

 

Meet the Panel: 

👩🏻‍💼  Melissa Baurer, Integrated Health and Outreach Director, Santiam Hospital & Clinics

Melissa Baurer is the executive director of the disaster case management program at Santiam Hospital and Clinics in Oregon. With a background in social services, Melissa has dedicated her career to addressing the social needs of individuals as part of healthcare. She was instrumental in establishing the Service Integration program, which brings together faith-based organizations, nonprofits, government agencies, and businesses to collaboratively meet the needs of the community. 

When the Beachie Creek and Lionshead fires impacted the region in 2020, Melissa's team was able to quickly mobilize and provide support to survivors, leveraging the existing relationships and resources of the Service Integration program. Melissa is committed to ensuring that all community members have access to the resources and support they need, especially during times of crisis.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-baurer-26824213b/ 
• Connect with Santiam Hospital: 
• Website: https://santiamhospital.org/ 

 

👩🏻‍💼Amber Ferguson, Executive Director/CEO, Rogue Food Unites

Amber Ferguson is the executive director of Rogue Food Unites, an organization she founded in response to the 2020 wildfires in Oregon. With a background in the hospitality and food and beverage industries, Amber was driven to provide immediate support to those displaced by the fires. Rogue Food Unites initially set out to provide hot meals three times a day to thousands of people, creating relationships with existing food businesses to both support the local economy and care for the community. 

Over the past four years, Rogue Food Unites' programs have evolved to address the ongoing needs of the region, fostering new community connections and building trust. Amber is committed to providing "beautiful, healthful, love-filled food" to those experiencing crisis, recognizing that food is just the first step in supporting community resilience. Her work has had a lasting impact on the physical and mental health of those affected by the wildfires, and she continues to advocate for innovative, community-driven approaches to disaster response.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-ferguson-656733251/ 
• Connect with Rogue Foods:
• Website: https://www.roguefoodunites.org/

 

👩🏻‍💼Nicole Huguenin, Co-Director and Founder, Maui Rapid Response

Nicole Huguenin is a generous entrepreneur with a diverse background in nonprofits and teaching. Her professional journey took a turn in 2012 when she became dissatisfied with the role of cash as the primary driver of decision-making, and she began exploring ways to revalue caring and aloha as currencies. This led to her involvement in many different projects, including her current role as the executive director of My Rapid Response, a disaster relief organization. 

Nicole's personal experiences as a survivor of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake and the 2013 Boulder, Colorado floods have deeply shaped her approach to disaster response. She is committed to building trust and deepening community connections, often choosing to stay out of traditional systems in order to better support the most vulnerable populations. Nicole's work has focused on fostering new and robust community relationships, with the belief that community-led efforts are essential for effective disaster recovery and resilience.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-huguenin-b5566920/ 
• Connect with Maui Rapid Response:
• Website: https://mauirapidresponse.org/

 

👩🏻‍💼Kukui Keahi, Community Care Navigator Lead, Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA)

Kukui Keahi is a nine-generation survivor from Lahaina, Maui, with deep roots in the community. Her family background has instilled in her a strong sense of responsibility to give back to the place that raised her. Kukui currently oversees the Maui operations for the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA), where she has been instrumental in the organization's disaster recovery efforts.

After the devastating fires that impacted Lahaina, Kukui was able to leverage her existing relationships and community knowledge to quickly identify the needs of the most vulnerable populations, including the elderly and multi-generational families. Under her leadership, CNHA established innovative programs to provide rental assistance, host families, and fill gaps in support that were not being met by other organizations. 

Kukui's commitment to her community and her ability to mobilize resources and foster collaboration have been invaluable in Maui's disaster recovery process. She continues to work tirelessly to ensure that the voices and needs of Native Hawaiians are centered in the rebuilding and reimagining of Lahaina.

Connect with Hawaiian Council: 

• Website: https://www.hawaiiancouncil.org/ 

 

👩🏻‍💼Rebekah Uccellini-Kuby, Executive Director, Makai Foundation

Rebekah Uccellini-Kuby has a background in regenerative system design and a deep commitment to addressing issues of access and equity. Growing up with parents who were a spiritual anthropologist, Rebekah's upbringing instilled in her a global perspective and a passion for supporting marginalized communities.

Rebekah's work has taken her to various disaster-affected regions, including Sonoma County, the Santa Cruz Mountains, and Maui. She has witnessed firsthand the challenges that vulnerable populations face in the aftermath of crises and has dedicated herself to finding innovative, community-driven solutions. 

Whether it was supporting the creation of mutual aid organizations, establishing land-based disaster recovery centers, or advocating for systemic changes to better support the most vulnerable, Rebekah has consistently prioritized the needs of those who are often overlooked. Her holistic approach to disaster response, grounded in regenerative principles and a deep respect for local knowledge, has made her a valuable asset to the communities she serves.

Rebekah's commitment to empowering local leaders and centering the voices of the marginalized has been a driving force in her work, as she believes that true resilience can only be achieved through community-led efforts.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebekah-uccellini-kuby-92863b29/ 
• Connect with Makai Foundation: 
• Website: https://makai.org/ 

 

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"It is becoming a cheerleader for the community that we're [private sector] back." —Tim Zahner

 "It takes all of us to make a recovery. There are no heroes after the disaster itself. We all have a role to play." —Lynn Knight

"The Kupuna up there in that forest are so alive more than ever. They're just needing conduits. And those conduits are us." —Kalikolehua Storer

 

When disaster strikes, the human toll is immense, but the economic impact can be just as devastating. Businesses shut, jobs lost, and entire industries disrupted— the ripple effects can cripple a community for years. Hence, rebuilding the local economy is essential for restoring normalcy and resilience.

In this episode, Mark Bodenhammer, the CEO of Sonoma Chamber of Commerce leads a panel of experts, including  Sonoma Valley Tourism Executive Director Tim Zahner, NOVACES Director of Economic Development & Resilience Programs Lynn Knight, and HYATT Hotels Training Specialist Kalikolehua Storer. 

Tune in as they share their experiences and insights on navigating the complex landscape of post-fire economic recovery— from balancing human needs with business support to diversifying industries and communicating with visitors, plus much more.

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 00:22 Meet Our Panel: Tim, Kalikolehua, Lynn
• 03:03 The Role of Economy in Recovery
• 10:41 Balancing Economy and Human Aid
• 18:35 Supporting the Business Economy
• 22:21 Facilitating a Healthy Relationship Between Businesses and the Government
• 25:03 Open for Business
• 29:40 A Cause for Pride  

 

 

Meet the Moderator:

👨🏻‍💼Mark Bodenhammer, CEO, Sonoma Chamber of Commerce

Mark Bodenhamer is the CEO of the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce. He is a native of Santa Rosa and has a strong passion for helping businesses succeed. Mark has served in various roles with Chambers of Commerce and other non-profit organizations12. He also hosts the "Sonoma Chamber Chat" on KSVY 91.3 FM, where he discusses local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and events in and around Sonoma12.

• Website: https://www.sonomachamber.org/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sonomachamber
• X: https://twitter.com/sonomachamber 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonomachamber/ 

 

Meet the Panel: 

👩🏻‍💼 Lynn Knight, Director of Economic Development & Resilience Programs, NOVACES

Lynn Knight is an economic developer with extensive experience working in disaster recovery. She has worked in 23 states and U.S. territories that have faced serious disasters. Lynn became passionate about disaster recovery work starting in 2014 when she was the Vice President of the International Economic Development Council and placed economic development volunteers in communities across the country that needed assistance. 

As an economic recovery expert, Lynn now works as a contractor for the U.S. Economic Development Administration, managing the economic recovery support function for FEMA. She brings deep expertise in understanding the economic impacts of disasters and helping communities develop strategies to support business recovery and long-term resilience. 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnknight08/ 
• Connect with Novaces: 
• Website: http://www.novaces.com/ 

 

👩🏻‍💼 Kalikolehua Storer, Area Hawaiian Culture/Training Specialist, HYATT Hotels

Kalikolehua Storer is a dedicated community member with a passion for both cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. As an area training and cultural advisor for Hyatt Resorts, she shares her knowledge of Hawaiian traditions and values with visitors and employees alike.  She also serves as the Pu'u Kukui Watershed operations supervisor, playing a vital role in protecting this critical ecosystem. Her diverse roles reflect her commitment to connecting people with the land, its history, and its future. 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaliko-storer-5621a039/

 

Connect with Hyatt Hotels: 

• Website: https://www.hyatt.com/ 

 

👨🏻‍💼Tim Zahner, Executive Director, Sonoma Valley Tourism

Tim Zahner is the representative from the Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau. His role is to promote the Sonoma Valley area, encourage people to visit, support local businesses, and help the community recover after disasters. Tim has worked closely in disaster-affected communities, leveraging his expertise in tourism and marketing to aid in the recovery process. With experience navigating the balance between supporting residents and welcoming visitors, Tim brings valuable insights to the discussion on reviving the local economy after emergencies.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timzahner/ 

 

Connect with Sonoma Valley Tourism: 

• Website: https://www.sonomavalley.com/ 

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

Episode Description: 

 "The fact that the fire's not near you, it doesn't mean that energy is not going to affect you." —Hani Taan

 

"What we're trying to shore up is to not only protect assets but to keep the fire from getting worse." —Carrie Horazeck

 

The world is getting hotter, with cities facing the devastating impacts of the urban heat island effect. However, innovative solutions are emerging to combat this challenge. Nanotech Materials has developed a game-changing particle technology that provides passive heat mitigation and extreme wildfire resistance, offering hope for a more resilient future.

Joining the discussion are Hani Taan, the CTO and founder of Nanotech Materials, and Carrie Horazeck, the Chief Commercial Officer. Tune in to learn more about how Nanotech Materials is working to future-proof our world with financial returns— from cool roof products that dramatically reduce HVAC costs to wildfire-shielding coatings that safeguard critical infrastructure, and more. 

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 00:35 The Little Particles That Does
• 04:38 Emissivity and Heat Mitigation
• 09:57  Protecting Infrastructures
• 14:23 Sustainability with a Financial Return
• 17:40 Q&A Segment

 

 

👩🏻‍💼  Carrie Horazeck, Chief Commercial Officer, NanoTech Materials

Ruth Carrie Horazeck is the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Nanotech, Inc., where she spearheads commercial strategy and market growth for breakthrough materials aimed at building resiliency into energy infrastructure. With over a decade of experience, Ruth has held significant roles, including President of Commercial Operations at Parasanti and Senior Consultant at Kantar Consulting. She holds an MBA from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Bachelor's degree in International Comparative Studies from Duke University. Ruth is known for her dedication, innovative approach, and ability to drive growth in the tech and energy sectors.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-carrie-horazeck-ab2a877a/
  

 

 👨🏻‍💼 Hani Taan, Chief Technology Officer, NanoTech Materials

 Hani Taan is the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of NanoTech, Inc., where he leads the development and commercialization of advanced materials. With a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from UC Santa Barbara and a Master's degree in International Business Management from FGV, Hani has a robust educational foundation. His career includes leadership roles such as Director of Business Development at National Oilwell Varco and General Manager at Frontline Safety. Recently, he announced his participation in the 2024 Wildfire Leadership Summit, showcasing NanoTech's innovations in climate resilience.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hani-taan-44786b37/ 

 

Connect with NanoTech Materials:

• Website: https://nanotechmaterials.com/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NanoTechIncHTX 
• X: https://x.com/NanoTechIncHTX 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanotechmaterials/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nanotechhtx/ 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NanoTechMaterialsInc
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nanotechmaterialsinc 

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

Episode Description: 

 "The solutions are creating those resilient landscapes." —Marco Bey

 

"It's going to come back to you. Is going to come back to how prepared you are? —how prepared can we all be to face these events? We need to center ourselves in that Indigenous traditional ecological knowledge so that we can make good choices." —Belinda Brown

 

Fire is not the enemy— it's a vital part of healthy, fire-adapted ecosystems. When applied thoughtfully, fire can restore balance, promote biodiversity, and reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires. Indigenous communities have long understood fire's role as a land management tool, but this knowledge has been lost over centuries of misguided policies.

Marco Bey and Belinda Brown are working to revive this traditional ecological wisdom through their organization, the Lomakatsi Restoration Project. As leaders in the movement to reintegrate good fire into Western land management practices, they partner with tribes, agencies, and communities to build resilience across millions of acres.

This powerful discussion unpacks the critical importance of centering indigenous knowledge, the challenges of accessing resources for tribal lands, and innovative solutions for creating fire-adapted, climate-resilient landscapes. Listen now to learn how you can support this vital work in your community.

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 03:32 The Severity of Wildfires
• 07:16 Bringing Aboriginal Knowledge Back Into the Land
• 11:41 Forest Resiliency
• 14:40 Know Your Community
• 16:47 The Question of Federal Access

 

 

Meet the Moderator

👩🏻‍💼 Lisa Micheli, Executive Board Member, After the Fire USA

Dr. Micheli joined Sonoma County's Pepperwood Foundation in October of 2009 as its inaugural Executive Director and now serves as the organization's President and CEO. She brings more than 30 years of experience applying her technical, policy, and fundraising expertise to the design and implementation of ecological restoration, research, and education programs. She started her career at the US Environmental Protection Agency and then completed her graduate studies at UC Berkeley as a NASA Earth Systems Research Fellow in 2000.  She now focuses her research on relationships between climate, watershed health, and biodiversity and has published numerous peer-reviewed studies on river restoration, climate adaptation, and community-based approaches to biodiversity conservation.

Dr. Micheli specializes in facilitating interdisciplinary collaborations focused on using relevant research to craft collective solutions to today's most pressing landscape conservation challenges.  She serves as the co-chair of Pepperwood's Terrestrial Biodiversity Climate Change Collaborative (TBC3), a Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation Bay Area climate adaptation research initiative, with Dr. David Ackerly, Dean of UC Berkeley's College of Natural Resources. She also chairs the Golden Gate Biosphere Reserve team of the international Large Landscape Conservation Peer Network facilitated by the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy. She has been recognized as a Phi Beta Kappa scholar, a Robert and Patricia Switzer Foundation Environmental Leader, a Bay Nature Institute Local Hero for Environmental Education, and a Fellow of the California Academy of Sciences.  She is a member of the American Geophysical Union and the Society for Conservation Biology. Dr. Micheli serves as a director on After The Fire board and as a science advisor to the Sempervirens Fund, the Chile-California Conservation Network, the Bay Area Open Space Council, and the Water Research Foundation

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisamicheli/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisa.micheli1 

Meet the Panel:

 👨🏻‍💼Marko Bey, Executive Director and Founder, Lomakatsi Forest Restoration Project

Executive Director and Lomakatsi's Co-Founder, Marko oversees all aspects of the organization's efforts, working in close coordination with the Board of Directors.  Marko's central focus is on program and organizational development, project procurement, planning, and operations. His other responsibilities include grant writing and fundraising, technical planning, and the management of cooperative agreements, stewardship agreements, and contracts.

Lomakatsi's ten regional ecosystem restoration programs and associated workforce initiatives are a primary result of his work.  Most essential has been his leadership in the orchestration and formation of collaborative partnerships — partnerships that are strengthened by a wide variety of stakeholders, including federal and state agencies, Indian tribes, organizations, private landowners, and community members.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marko-bey-6870781a/ 

 

👩🏻‍💼Belinda Brown, Tribal Partnerships Director, Lomakatsi Forest Restoration Project

Belinda serves as Lomakatsi's Tribal Partnership Director and operates within the framework of Lomakatsi's Tribal Partnership Program and associated initiatives. Belinda works closely with Lomakatsi's Executive Director and staff leadership to serve tribal communities in their efforts to restore forests and watersheds on tribal trust and ancestral lands. She serves as a community liaison, engaging with tribal elders, tribal councils, cultural resource monitors, and tribal department staff. Belinda also works to establish and promote effective working relationships among the tribal community, Lomakatsi, and federal agency and non-profit partners.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/belinda-brown-130b832b/ 

 

Connect with Lomakatsi Restoration Project: 

• Website: https://lomakatsi.org/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lomakatsi/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lomakatsi_restoration_project/