Words, read or spoken can have power. Words can influence both for good or ill. What words have shaped your life?
Jack Lynch took to heart inspiring words he heard spoken in a speech: “My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”
Those were the words of the Jan 20, 1961, Inaugural address by President John F. Kennedy.
“I’ll never forget that address and those particular words,” Lynch said. “They have stuck with me and influenced me my entire life.”
Lynch says our country includes all of us, our neighbors near and far.
“I was also fortunate to have two teachers, that shaped me in similar ways. Mr. Murphy, a social studies teacher, and Mr. Bone a political science professor. They instilled into their students a deep interest in becoming a knowledgeable voter, volunteering, taking positive action, and giving back.”
Doug Brand of Clinton, says, “Our community is a better place to live because of Jack’s ongoing involvement. I remembered 25 years ago at a sub-area planning meeting how Jack was able to listen to both sides of an issue and bring people together to reach a reasonable conclusion. Since that time I have marveled at Jack’s commitment, passion, and tireless energy. He has contributed so much to our community, from organizing, gardening, or leading us all for the betterment of the community and its citizens.”
Seated end-to-end at the home of Lynch, his wife, Lynne, and their friendly terrier, Jameson, Lynch says “I have to say I am really surprised anyone would think of me for this series. I surely don’t consider myself important here. Right away I think of other Clinton volunteers: Curt Gordon, Doug Hofius, Sherryl Christie, Elisa Miller, Carol Flax, or Lynae Slinden—and there are others, but not me.”
Clinton has a small group of committed volunteers who work on behalf of the rural county community, functioning as liaisons to the county commissioners and overall champions for the area.
“Seven of us got together when we realized the Clinton Progressive Hall was withering on the vine. We all believed we could not allow the hall to close up. It was down to six members, however with perseverance from dedicated volunteers we soon reached 120 members. It’s important to have members, after all it’s a ‘community’ hall. Secondly, we need the dues and volunteers to keep up the building and grounds.
In 2012, a Clinton three-day future search conference brought together over 70 people to hear residents visions and discuss ideas. This only happened with committed volunteers.
“Following the conference we researched how similar unincorporated towns organized to represent themselves and participate in planning for their futures,” he said. “Those of us that believe change is inevitable, wanted a voice in orchestrating it. At first, some were skeptical of the need for a community council. Some did not want any changes, and insisted they like things the way they are.”
Lynch says it’s important to listen to others words and show respect for varies opinions and disagreements.
“We can disagree and still like one another,” he said. “Through open discussions, we were able to come closer together.”
Clinton Community Council Vice President Sherryl Christie has had personal experiences where she and Lynch didn’t see eye-to-eye.
“Jack and I have not always agreed. For instance, I was personally involved in the ownership of a piece of property that I was trying to get rezoned. I saw it as a benefit to Clinton, however Jack spoke against it at the county level. I still mourn that lost opportunity, but at the same time I also deeply respect Jack’s commitment to what he believes is right. For a community example, when I was trying to drum up support for a community gathering to discuss the future of Clinton, Jack was reluctant to participate. However, he gave it a chance, joined the effort, and has continue serving faithfully ever since. He’s a man of integrity, open minded, and a tender heart. Despite some disagreements we have had, I contribute our continued mutual respect and friendship to Jack’s graciousness and professionalism.”
Jack says, “Some people living outside of Clinton might think our town is fading, but it’s starting to thrive. Its a gradual change with new businesses opening and more are coming. Commuters may not immediately notice how Clinton is invigorated. There aren’t big flashing grand openings, one day a new business just quietly opens it’s doors. For example, Clinton has an exciting new business that offers family activities, ‘Make Whidbey’ and a new restaurant, ‘Island Nosh.’ Other businesses see that Clinton is a place to be, and one business re-enforces and compliments another.”
Lynch has also been a leader in transportation issues concerning Clinton. Most recently he was involved in the effort to lobby the state for a new ferry and overhead passenger loading at the Clinton Ferry Terminal.
Lynch’s background was the King County director of planning, as well as part-time Langley city planner. Experiences in these two positions gave him pause for reflection.
“I’ll never forget the words a woman in the checkout line in Langley said to me two years ago. I didn’t know who she was, but I remember she asked me, ‘Are you, Jack Lynch’? I said, ‘Yes,’ and she said, ‘Thank you for the great job you did for our city.’ “Those words were so good to hear, as public servants we generally hear a lot more criticism than compliments.”
He uses another Seattle example where words were spoken, seared harshly for him.
“One of the hardest tasks I ever had to do was to remove a top official in county government who was under my authority. I knew it was the right thing to do and I hadn’t any other options. I tried to treat him fairly, knowing the news would not be easy for him to hear. Later, when this man passed way, his family informed me I was not welcome to attend his memorial. I will always remember how those words felt.”
Lynch says, though he would not have changed anything he did, he regrets how much his decision affected the man and his family.
Thinking of the importance of words and how they affect us all, Lynch says, “Many derogatory and inappropriate words have been spoken during this campaign election.”
Lynch says, “I am hoping that our system of government will continue to hold us together in good stead, unlike some of the worlds countries that are completely corrupted. I hope that when the president-elect arrives at the White House and sits in the Oval Office chair, that the scope and depth of responsibility that comes with it will become real.”
Lynch contemplates on the hard work we all have in front of us to leave the world better for the next generation.
Some musicians speak to the hardships in life. Lynch’s favorite musician is Leonard Cohen because of his passionate lyrics about real life human frailties. Leonard uses words in a song to talk about his own depression and addiction within his lyrics.
Lynch says, “Everyone is affected by someone who is addicted or suffering from depression. My family is no exception.”
Family is extremely important to Lynch and is proud of his children and grandchildren. He uses his teenage grandson Riley as an example.
“Riley is what is referred to as a little person (formerly called a dwarf); he is just 4 feet tall. In comparison, his brother is 6 feet 10 inches. Riley came up with a clever idea to ask a girl out to the homecoming dance, and it worked — she said ‘yes.’ He has developed a big personality that makes up for his stature. He is fortunate to be physically active. For instance he has made the varsity golf team. I think Riley is a great role model, for overcoming personal challenges. Riley doesn’t’ see his size as a hindrance.”
Lynch says when Riley was informed about a support group in Seattle for little people he could attend, Riley’s response was, ‘ Thank you, but I don’t have any more challenges or obstacles than we all do in life to deal with.’
BIO
Jack P. Lynch
DOB: 12-28-1942, Bremerton Wash.
Siblings: One brother Terry 12 years older
Education: University of Washington, political science
Spouse: Lynne, married Sept. 9, 1965
Children: Two boys, Chris and Garret
Grandchildren: Five; Nic, Riley, Catherine, Lydia and Charlie
Years on Whidbey: Thirteen full time, 43 part time.
Hobbies: Fishing, shrimping, crabbing, raising oysters, boating and traveling with travel trailer.
Personal sides:
SW people you admire? Helen Price Johnson, she’s humble, respectful and a good listener. Curt Gordon, devotion to this community. Doug Hofius He never looks for attention, yet volunteers for numerous projects. Carey Peterson, She works & volunteers & lives for a sustainable community. Randy Hudson, his music and wit. Mayor Tim Callison, positive and open attitude.
What one thing would you change in the world? “Reduce autocratic rulers and create better living conditions for those under such rulers.”
What would you change in yourself? “Become more patient.”
Favorite current book? “Snowball, about Warren Buffet. He is a good role model for CEO’s on how to treat their employees. He speaks well of women. When he and his wife divorced, Warren continued to treat her with respect. He appears down to earth and humble.”
What is something you enjoy discussing? “I am always open to discuss politics and religion with anyone who wants to. The person does not need to have my views.”
Something some may not know about you? “I attended Catholic schools, was raised Catholic was an alter boy and the whole deal. Our boys attended Catholic Schools, as do our grandsons.”
What is your mission statement? “ Be a good husband, father, and grandfather; lend my abilities to further our community as a great place for all.”
If you could choose up to seven words for your epitaph? “He loved his family and community.”
If you were given 1,000 roses, what would you do with them? “Give 12 to my wife, and then the rest to Good Cheer to distribute them to all the women in need.”
Some simple past times you enjoy? “Riddles of ‘Hocus Focus, (quick mental exercises) and comics from Far Side Gary Larson (insightful about animals).”
Side Quotes from SW residents:
“I called upon Jack twice during my term as mayor for interim planning services in the City of Langley. I knew him first by his reputation for fairness, expertise, and his ability to listen. I grew to fully appreciate his professionalism, passion for public service, and work ethic. Jack is a problem solver and critical thinker. He is honest and willing to do the homework necessary to make informed decisions in the best interests of the city while being sensitive to the needs of citizens.”
Fred McCarthy, former superintendent of SWSD and former Langley major
“Jack has provided consistent, strong leadership to both Clinton Hall, and the Clinton Community Council. He helped to found the Clinton Community Council, and works on the ferry upgrades for traffic, and to elevate pedestrian and bicycle safety. He has been a great advocate for multiple communities on the south end. He has given voice to our formerly voiceless village.”
Doug Hofius, architect, and Clinton Council member
“Jack has served the Clinton Community for as long as I have known him.
His service has ranged from leadership to digging out weeds from the Clinton Hall garden areas. With his leadership teams cohere and goals get accomplished.”
Elisa Miller, Clinton steering committee
“In the years when Jack was Langley’s City Planner, I worked with him with various hats on – as a member of Langley’s Design Review Board, as a citizen professional helping review new zoning ordinances, and as an architect of building projects in town. He was always cordial and has a good nature. I see him as a quiet visionary — perhaps best exemplified by the innovative Cottage Housing Ordinance, the first of its kind to be enacted in the United States and an inspiration for dozens of cities across the country.”
Ross Chapin, architect Langley
“Jack is a person who takes his professional responsibilities seriously but, with a thoughtfulness and reasonableness that allows for a positive outcome of the planning process.
He is deliberate and mindful of his relationship of his work as a Planner with respect to the community, which he cares about deeply.
He has a very open and likable personality and I enjoyed working with him immensely.
Without his support, my transition to the office of Mayor would have indeed been more difficult.
He is a proud father and grandfather who makes time to be involved with them.”
Tim Callison, Langley major
“Jack has been involved with the Community Council. He may have been the person that started it. I served on the Council for a couple of years. Jack was always there. He listened to every idea and waited patiently for the group to reach a conclusion.”
Arlene Stebbins, president of Friends of Freeland Library
“Jack Lynch continues to provide important leadership in the Clinton Community. His professional civic experience, soft spoken demeanor and clear integrity have been vital to the success of this effort. He stepped up and was instrumental to the visioning effort that was held several years ago, and has chaired the Clinton Community Council with fairness, transparency and good judgment for several years. He has been tireless in his efforts to bring a voice to the Clinton area. “
Helen Price Johnson, Island County commissioner
“I’ve known Jack for many years in his role as a planner and now more intensely as the driving force behind the Clinton Community Council. Jack and I have served together on boards and represented the community on efforts together and whether or not we always agree what I admire most are his tireless efforts to promote his vision of a better community.”
Curt Gordon, SW volunteer and owner of Island Asphalt
“Jack is a true community leader – dedicated and knowledgeable, he is a pleasure to work with. No matter what the situation, the politics or inner struggles of an organization, I always know Jack is someone I can count on to be wise and level headed – coming up with solutions and answers. We are truly lucky to have Jack Lynch as a leader in our Clinton Community. He is definitely a Hometown Hero!”
Carol Flax, Clinton and SW volunteer
“Jack Lynch is a doer. If he agrees to a job, he is there full time. Whether it’s weeding/landscaping at the Clinton Community Hall, leading the Clinton Community Council, or acting as interim planning director for Langley, he is all in!! And he never seems short or up tight, just patiently allowing the decision making to occur. Whidbey Island needs more people like Jack!”
Maury Hood, Clinton resident and author
