This story was published in The Chronicle in February 2020. It was awarded first place for “Best Editorial” in the 2020 Oregon Newspapers Publishers Association Awards.

In an era where accountability and self-awareness often are lacking, spending any time around Michelle Amberg is a refreshing alternative. No excuses. No finger-pointing. No blame.
It’s full responsibility, all-out ownership, all the time.
“If you can’t carry the freight,” she said matter-of-factly while sitting in her first-floor City…




