Editor’s note: Deborah Ness was on the first cover of ‘Inspire’ Magazine. As we celebrate ten years of Inspiring Women, we caught up with a few ‘cover girls’…

Her story: Deborah Ness was named Bismarck’s first female Chief of Police in 1997. During her time in the position she met several challenges head on: a rise in the methamphetamine drug problem, implementation of new and better security measures after the September 11th attacks and her personal battle with breast cancer.

IW: You retired from the Bismarck Police Department in 2007 and opened the Quilt Haus. Was that always a dream of yours, to own your own business?

DN: Opening “The Quilt Haus” has been a dream come true for both Ken and I. It has indeed been a wonderful adventure that has given us new friends and wonderful memories. We have thoroughly enjoyed our time at the Quilt Haus as well as our time in Bismarck. But now we both agree it is time for us to make some new adventures. God created a pretty big world and I think he would like us to see a bit more of it.

IW: You are now leaving Bismarck and your business behind. What are your plans?
DN: Ken and I will be retiring and moving to Bella Vista Arkansas. At least that is where we will begin our new adventure. We are leaving our options open so I can’t really say where we will end up – but I do believe we will have a great time finding our next destination.

IW: You created a lot of awareness for breast cancer during your personal battle. Do you still do public speaking on the subject and what do you do to stay healthy?

DN: I have done some public speaking – but not as much as I used to. I prefer to speak with others on a one on one basis. The Quilt Haus provides a venue in which many stories are shared. Some of those stories make us laugh, some make us reflect and some make us cry. However, all provide an opportunity to emotionally connect with others. I think I can confidently say that The Quilt Haus has been a house of healing in more ways than one.

IW: What is the one thing most people would be surprised to learn about you:

DN: I have no surprises – I am pretty much an open book! When you lead a public life, as long as I have, there doesn’t tend to be any secrets.

IW: What is the best piece of advice you can give to women?

DN: Never be afraid to open up to others. Never be afraid to experience new adventures. Never use the words “I am too old.” And never forget to eat at least one good piece of chocolate a day.

IW: Who Inspires You and why?

DN: I heard the story of Irena Sendler back in 2007 when she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Her story is utterly fascinating. Much has been written about this very courageous and compassionate woman. If you want to know why I am so inspired by her, I would encourage you to read her story. I am confident that Irena Sendler will inspire you also.

Deb’s Favorites:
Movie: I love movies that make me laugh, I love movies that make me cry, I love movies that make me think. I love any movie that evokes emotion and allows me to escape into a make- believe-world for a couple of hours. But most of all I love the movie house popcorn. (Do you notice a food theme developing here?)

Book: This week my favorite book is “The Shack”. But considering how much I love to read and listen to books – my favorite changes from week to week.

Quote: “Remember; we work for God.” ~ Lt. Cmdr. Vernon J. Geberth, NYPD