The Curent - Issue 1

INSIDE:

EMPLOYEE NEWSLETTER ISSUE 01-2020

CITY MANAGER’S CORNER, EMPLOYEE WELLNESS PROGRAM RECOGNIZED BY THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION, GUESS THE SPOT, RECIPE SPOTLIGHT AND MORE!

THE CURRENT

CITY MANAGER’S CORNER Welcome to a New Year!

I’d like to extend a big welcome to all of our recently hired employees. It isn’t always easy to begin anew and we are so very pleased you have chosen the City of Suffolk as your place of employment. We strive to be innovative, progressive, and the best at what we do.

Our reputation is one of professional, ethical, and fiscal excellence. Many of our Departments have been commended locally and nationally for their level of commitment to public service and work production. You are now a part of an engaging team of professionals. We would not be where we are today without the dedication of our employees, both long-standing and new. ~ Patrick Roberts

THE CITY OF SUFFOLK

has been awarded a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for the eleventh straight year for its’ 2019/2020 Fiscal Year Operating and Capital Budget. The award reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting.

Congratulations to the Finance Department for once again achieving this notable award!

CITY OF SUFFOLK'S EMPLOYEE WELLNESS PROGRAM RECOGNIZED BY THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION The results of the American Heart Association 2019 Workplace Health Achievement Index were recently announced and Suffolk achieved the Silver Level recognition for taking significant steps to build a culture of health in the workplace. The City’s Employee Wellness Program began in 2010 and has progressively led to an increasingly health-conscious workforce, resulting in positive trends amongst multiple chronic conditions.

The American Heart Association created the Index for companies who are committed to applying evidence-based approaches to improve their employees’ overall health. The Index uses science-based best practices to evaluate the overall quality and comprehensiveness of their workplace health programs.

Studies show that worksites with a culture of health with comprehensive, evidence-based policies and programs and senior leadership support are more likely to have engaged employees and a healthier, more productive workforce.

A unique feature of the Index is that it calculates an average heart health score for employees of participating companies that securely submit aggregate health data.

Companies receive benchmarking reports, which allow them to identify potential areas of improvement so that they can advance their annual performance and recognition.

Upon learning of the achievement, City Manager Patrick Roberts noted, “We couldn’t be more proud of our Human Resources Department and the countless opportunities they have provided to our employees to enhance their overall health and wellness. Combined, these make for an even more productive workforce which allows us to better serve our citizens.”

The American Heart Association also featured a multi-page ad in Forbes® American Business Magazine including the names of all recipients of the Workplace Health Achievement recognition.

CAN YOU GUESS THE NAME OF THIS BUILDING WHERE THIS STATUE IS? Email your answer to Nicole Duncan, nduncan@suffolkva.us, for your chance to win a prize!

The winner from the last edition is Tracy Frederick, Senior Accounting Technician, who correctly guessed the Old OBICI Hospital, Formerly 1900 North Main Street. Please see Nicole Duncan in the Media & Community Relations Department to claim your prize.

E H T SS T E U G SPO

HUMAN RESOURCES EMPLOYEE RECEIVES RISK MANAGEMENT EXCELLENCE AWARD Congratulations to Rita Ennis, Human Resources

Generalist, who was one of nine individuals across the state to receive recognition for her personal contribution to Excellence in Risk Management. The Award was presented at the 2019 VRSA (Virginia Risk Sharing Association) Annual Meeting held earlier this year at The Place at Innsbrook in Glen Allen, Virginia.

Ms. Ennis was recognized for her diligence in handling the City’s Workers’ Compensation Claims and working to avoid Employee injuries. In addition to her many Human Resources responsibilities, she is also committed to reintegrating injured workers into the workplace through light duty work, benefiting both the Employee and the City.

SUFFOLK SHERIFF’S OFFICE RETIREMENTS Sheriff E.C. Harris and the staff of the Suffolk Sheriff’s Office would like to recognize Captain Calvin Bowe, who retired after 33 years in law enforcement.

Captain Bowe began his law enforcement career in 1986 as a correctional officer for the North Carolina Department of Corrections. Capt. Bowe was then hired by the Suffolk Sheriff’s Office in 1989, where he served the City of Suffolk as a Correctional Officer at the Western Tidewater Regional Jail as well as a Sheriff’s Deputy. Over the years, Captain Bowe has earned several promotions. In May of 2013, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant; he was then

It was with mixed emotions that the Suffolk Sheriff’s Office announced the retirement of Major James Darden. We are excited to see him enter the next stage of his life, but saddened to see such a valued public servant leave our Sheriff’s Office family.

Major James Darden, Jr. was a 33 year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office. He retired as Chief Deputy Sheriff but is proud to say that he has worked in every position in the Office. Major Darden joined the office in 1984 and worked his way through the ranks to attain the position of Chief Deputy Sheriff.

Major Darden was instrumental in the opening of the Mills E. Godwin Courts Complex which turned 21 years-old this year.

promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in 2015, and he earned the rank of Captain in 2017.

Captain Bowe holds a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Elizabeth City State University. Through the years, Captain Bowe held many law enforcement certifications and instructorships.

Captain Bowe is extremely engaged in his community where he is an active member of the Eternal Life Church, and he serves on several boards and civic and fraternal organizations.

The Suffolk Sheriff’s Office and the City of Suffolk are fortunate to have had such a dedicated employee as Captain Calvin Bowe. The staff of the Suffolk Sheriff’s Office wishes you and your family all the best and hopes you have days full of laughter and happiness.

We will miss your professionalism, friendship, and unprecedented work ethic. God bless and Godspeed.

Major Darden is a Suffolk native growing up in Holland. He is a graduate of Forest Glen High School, Paul D. Camp Community College with degrees in Criminal Justice-Police Science and Correctional Science. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy 215th Session, Hampton Roads Academy of Criminal Justice, US Marshals State and Local Court Security Academy, SWAT, FBINA and Virginia State Police First Line Supervisor School. He is certified as a DCJS General Instructor, Court Security Assessor, Beretta Armorer, Dignitary and Executive Protection Team Leader. He served six years in the US Army National Guard and is a member of Holland Ruritan Club and McAllister 185 Masonic Lodge.

Retired Major Darden is married to his high school sweetheart, Lisa, and has two sons, Brandon and Joshua.

The staff of the Suffolk Sheriff’s Office wishes you and your family all the best and hopes you have days full of laughter and happiness. We will miss your professionalism and your friendship.

MEE T

HARLEY a 1-year-old Golden Retriever

who has been training as a service dog since she was only 9-weeks old! At just four months, she started advanced training which included different scenarios that she may encounter throughout her day as a service dog.

Harley assists her human partner, Caitlin Fischbach, a Communications Operator I in the Emergency Communications Center at City Hall, and is able to alert her of any changes in the environment and performs several tasks for her throughout the day as she is constantly by her side. Harley even wears a City ID badge!

Harley has her Canine Good Citizen Certification and is certified and compliant with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). A service dog’s training is ongoing and something that never ends.

Welcome, Harley!

NEWS FROM THE ASSESSOR’S OFFICE William (Greg Jonak), Commercial Appraiser, Assessor’s Office,

received his International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) Certified Assessment Evaluator (CAE) designation.

The purpose of the CAE designation is to recognize professionalism and competency in a wide range of matters covering property valuation for tax purposes, property tax administration, and property tax policy.

IAAO members may use this designation in conjunction with the valuation of a wide range of property types, property appraisal and assessment administration issues, and property tax policy statements in accordance with IAAO’s commitment to excellence.

Congratulations!

SUFFOLK COMMONWEALTH’S ATTORNEY’S OFFICE

C. Phillips “Phil” Ferguson and the Suffolk Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, held its 8th annual FREE Crime Scene Investigations Camp during the week of Monday, June 17, 2019, through Friday, June 21, 2019, for youth ages 12-15 years of age. The camp was designed to teach the youth about observation, photography, evidence collection, preservation, and testimony in court. It gave a deeper understanding of the decisions made by the Suffolk Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. Students became increasingly aware and understood the realities of criminal cases through forensics.

SUFFOLK COMMONWEALTH’S ATTORNEY’S CITIZENS ACADEMY ♦ ♦

Commonwealth's Attorney C. Phillips Ferguson will host the 8th Suffolk Commonwealth's Attorney's

Citizens Academy. The Academy be held from Thursday, February 27, 2020-Thursday, 26, Commonwealth's Attorney C. will Phillips Ferguson will host the 8th Suffolk Commonwealth'sMarch Attorney's 2020.

Citizens Academy. The Academy will be held from Thursday, February 27, 2020-Thursday, March 26,

♦ ♦

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All adult citizens, interested in attending this FREE class, beginning Thursday, February 27, 2020 through Thursday, March 26, 2020 must apply for admission.

Classes will be Thursday, held each evening from to All adult citizens, interested in attending this FREE class, beginning February 27, 6:00 2020pm through 7:30 pm. Please yourmust application by admission.

Wednesday, February 19,held 2020.

For more information, please Thursday, Marchturn 26, in 2020 apply for Classes will be each evening from 6:00 pm to fill out an Please application onyour the Suffolk Commonwealth's Attorney's www.suffolk.va.us/cwatty/ or 7:30 pm. turn in application

by Wednesday, Februarywebsite: 19, 2020.

For more information, please contact Joan R. Turner, Outreach Coordinator at 7 57-51 4-4379. fill out an application on Community the Suffolk Commonwealth's Attorney's website: www.suffolk.va.us/cwatty/ or contact Joan R. Turner, Community Outreach Coordinator at 7 57-51 4-4379.

Suffolk Fire & Rescue Department’s Awards and Recognition Ceremony honored members of the Department and citizens in addition to officially promoting ten Officers during the event on Thursday, October 25, 2019 at the Hilton Garden Inn – Suffolk Riverfront.

Firefighter of the Year Award – Lieutenant Kyle Hehl

Lieutenant Christopher K. Hehl joined the Suffolk Fire & Rescue Department in September 2006. Lt. Hehl received his Associates in Science Degree from Tidewater Community College in 2006. He was promoted to Lieutenant in August 2016 and is currently assigned to Station 1, Engine 2, “C” Shift.

Paramedic of the Year Award - Lieutenant Roger Stinnette, Jr.

Lieutenant Roger W. Stinnette, Jr. joined the Suffolk Fire & Rescue Department in March of 2002. Lt. Stinnette completed his Paramedic Certification in 2001. He was promoted to Lieutenant in August 2016 and is currently assigned to Station 6 Engine 6 C Shift. Lt. Stinnette was also selected as Paramedic of the Year in 2007.

Fire Chief’s Award of Excellence – Deputy Chief Franklin T. (Ted) Adams

Deputy Chief Franklin T. (Ted) Adams has been a fixture with Suffolk Fire & Rescue since 1986. Over the past 33 years, he has progressed through the ranks to where he now has arguably one of the most difficult jobs in the fire service, Deputy Chief of Operations. Deputy Chief Adams oversees 250 firefighters and officers and their performance on a daily basis to include overseeing the Stations, apparatus, and the “situations” that occur with overseeing such a large workforce.

Over the past 33 years, and certainly the past four years as the Deputy Chief of Operations, Deputy Chief Adams has demonstrated a tremendous amount of support and dedication to our Department and its’ personnel. He defines leadership and is always willing to listen when presented a problem or concern and is always willing to lend a hand to a firefighter in need. One of his Battalion Chiefs stated, “When one of his members is having a ‘bad day,’ Chief Adams is always looking for a way to help them through their situation. He is a leader, and that is part of our job, however, Chief Adams takes it to a much higher level. Unfortunately, we have had several members with major medical emergencies over the past few years and Deputy Chief Adams has spent countless days, not hours, at the hospital when these tragic events took place. He put his personal and professional life on hold to be there for his firefighters and their families.”

Deputy Chief Adams exemplifies how a leader should be dedicated to both the organization and the men and women who serve the organization. Ted is an intricate part of what makes our Department so great.

Read about all of the promotees and honorees here

SUFFOLK FIRE & RESCUE

welcomed 21 new Firefighters to their ranks following a Commencement & Badge Pinning Ceremony last evening, Thursday, January 30th, before a capacity crowd at King’s Fork High School’s auditorium.

The Hampton Roads Recruit Fire Academy (HRFFA) Class 16, who chose the name “PEANUT CITY KN16HTS”, was hosted by Suffolk Fire & Rescue and included a total of 22 men and women that graduated following intensive State-Certified Basic Recruit training combined with grueling physical training that began in March 2019.

During his opening remarks, Chief Michael Barakey noted, “For this night to occur, both the Suffolk and Portsmouth Fire & Rescue Departments provided very competent, committed Officers, Instructors, and Mentors to coach these fine Firefighters in their training.”

In addressing the recruits, he further stated, “You are now in rare company. You’re going to give of yourselves so that others may live, because Firefighters serve without hesitation or judgement.”

The dynamic Key Note Speaker for the evening was Deputy Chief (Retired) Bobby Halton, Albuquerque Fire Department, and Editor-In-Chief of Fire Engineering Magazine. For more than 140 years, Fire Engineering Magazine has provided training, education, and management information for fire and emergency services personnel worldwide. Chief Halton’s passionate remarks about “God and Country” were especially impactful not only with the new recruits, but also for veteran Firefighters.

Class 16 members include the following individuals that will be reporting to various Fire Stations across the City of Suffolk, many in fact earlier this morning: Alexis Albright Scot Allen Cody Baines Joshua Baker Stacie Ellis Ashton Felts Adam Fischbach Scott Hitter Charles Kelly David Keller Austin Mills Jonathan Monahan Ashleigh Oszust Mariya Register Nicholas Retson Robert Shelton William Stephens Donald Vaughan Matt Wendel Raquel Wheby Christopher Wynne Reporting for duty at Portsmouth Fire & Rescue is graduate Amani Harper.

Suffolk Fire & Rescue Instructors included HRRFA Director Captain Leon Ratliff, HRRFA Coordinator Lieutenant Rainey Dail, HRRFA Co-Coordinator Fire Training Officer Mary Riddick, HRRFA Lead Instructor Fire Medic Bryan Grasser, and HRRFA Staff Instructors Fire Medic Edward Tuck and Fire Medic Joe Jarman.

SUFFOLK POLICE WELCOME NEW OFFICERS AT BADGE PINNING

The Suffolk Police Department held a Badge Pinning Ceremony on Wednesday, October 9, 2019. The event was held in City Council Chamber, located in Suffolk City Hall, 442 West Washington Street.

At this Ceremony, Officers who received their Suffolk Police badges included: Joseph S. Aluia, Antony J. Ball, Elizabeth Y. Butler, Sara B. Crouch, Zoie B. Howell, Payton Y. Kerlee Rachel K. Miller, Chase M. Patrylak, SharNeisha C. Savage, Jeremy P. Tyler, Jordan A. Umstead

Congratulations!

MAKING HISTORY Jay Raines, Network Engineer II, Information Technology,

doesn’t normally like to divulge too much about his military life. Read the following story from The Washington Post, and you will understand why Jay chose to share: https://www. washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/amid-tension-with-iran-us-air-force-shifts-middle-east-command-center-from-qatar-to-south-carolina/2019/09/29/67d93834-e21611e9-be7f-4cc85017c36f_story.html “It’s a humbling moment when you see the fruits of your labor make such a big impact.”

-Jay Raines

DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES

DRESSING FOR A CAUSE!

Go Pink: We Are Stronger Together!!! The Department of Social Services shows continuous support by going PINK for Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2019.

Go Purple: The Department of Social Services stands in purple solidarity in recognition of Domestic Violence Month 2019.

RECIPE SPOTLIGHT Chicken Parm Stuffed Peppers https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a51054/chicken-parm-stuffed-peppers-recipe/

INGREDIENTS 3 c. shredded mozzarella, divided ½ c. freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving 3 cloves garlic, minced 1-1/2 c. marinara 1 tbsp. freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish.

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 12 oz. fresh or frozen breaded chicken, cooked according to package instructions and diced 4 bell peppers, halved and seeds removed 1/2 c. chicken broth

Image courtesy of www.delish.com

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups mozzarella, parmesan, garlic, marinara, parsley, and red pepper flakes and season with salt and pepper. Stir until combined, then gently fold in chicken.

Spoon mixture into halved bell peppers and sprinkle with remaining 1 cup mozzarella.

Pour chicken broth into baking dish (to help peppers steam) and cover with foil.

Bake until peppers are tender, 55 minutes to 1 hour. Uncover and broil 2 minutes.

Garnish with parsley and more parmesan before serving.

PAINTING SNOW PLOWS During Peanut Fest 2019, City of Suffolk Public Works and Suffolk Public Schools teamed up to apply a protective coat of paint to a couple snow plows used by Public Works and illustrate the connection between our plowing operations and communities.

Snow plows are exposed to some of the toughest elements during a storm. They are designed with replaceable parts that wear out during operations. The parts that aren’t designed to wear come into direct contact with the salt and sand that is typically applied before and during snow events, stripping the plow faces to bare metal, making them susceptible to corrosion and rust.

Having the plows painted by local students gives the plows a coat of protection at the same time as allowing the students to touch and interact with equipment that would usually be foreign and mysterious. The plow faces offer a large surface for creativity and, when the plows are put into use, gives the students a point of pride to see the plows they painted working in their communities.

We want to thank the students from Lakeland and Nansemond River High Schools who came out to paint the plows. They did an awesome job and we look forward to seeing the plows in action.

24TH ANNUAL TREASURER’S UNITED WAY GOLF TOURNAMENT

Treasurer Ron Williams hosted the 24th Annual Treasurer’s United Way Golf Tournament on Friday,

September 13, 2019 at the Nansemond River Golf Club in Suffolk. Over 100 golfers came out to enjoy a day of fun and fellowship on the golf course, all while raising money for the United Way of South Hampton Roads. Special thanks are due to the event’s sponsors, players, and volunteers. Please mark your calendars for September 18, 2020 to participate in the 25th Annual Treasurer’s United Way Golf Tournament.

EVENT RAISES OVER $20,000 FOR OUR COMMUNITY!

Mark Everitt, Grounds Maintenance Superintendent with the Department of Parks & Recreation, recently became an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist.

An arborist provides care for trees through pruning, trimming, removing, and planting trees. They also provide other services such as insect control, fertilization, cabling, aeration, and lightning protection. They can also identify diseases or parasites, ensure trees have sufficient support, and remove any damaging plants. An arborist can give consultations that will help determine when these services are necessary.

Mark has been a City employee since 2005. Before being employed by Suffolk, Mark worked for the City of Virginia Beach as a Motor Equipment Operator III. His new skills will be a welcomed and needed addition to not only P&R, but other Departments in the City.

WAY TO GO MARK!

DON’T BE THAT PERSON! BE COURTEOUS! PLEASE REMEMBER THAT EMPLOYEES ARE NOT PERMITTED TO PARK IN VISITOR SPACES! ACCORDING TO THE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES: VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES FOR MISUSE OF PLACARDS AND PLATES FOR THE DISABLED It is a serious misuse of placards and plates for the disabled when someone other than the person with a disability uses the placard or plate to park in a space reserved for people with disabilities.

Remember, it’s unlawful to: •

•

park in a space reserved for disabled individuals without displaying your disabled placard or plates.

A conviction of this offense could result in fines from $100 to $500. park in a space designated for the disabled unless you are transporting the person to whom the disabled placard or plates have been issued. A conviction of this offense could result in fines of up to $500 and/or the revocation of your disabled parking privileges, requiring you to surrender your placard or plates.

It’s also illegal to: • • •

create or use a counterfeit copy of a disabled parking placard or license plates. alter a disabled parking placard or license plates. make a false statement about a disability in order to obtain or assist someone else in obtaining a disabled parking placard or license plates.

Convictions for these offenses, which are Class II Misdemeanors, could result in fines of up to $1,000 and up to six months in jail. Additionally, DMV may revoke your disabled parking privileges, requiring you to surrender your placard or plates.

SUFFOLK FIRE & RESCUE SHARES THE LOVE ON VALENTINE’S DAY WITH DEBUT OF PULSEPOINT APP

SUFFOLK FIRE & RESCUE has joined with PulsePoint

to help increase the survival rates of cardiac arrest victims, and they chose Valentine’s Day to debut their partnership with our citizens so that they can help share the love!

PulsePoint is a free mobile app that alerts citizens trained in hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) when

someone in a nearby public place suffers sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), a life-threatening emergency that occurs when the heart unexpectedly stops beating. Although a heart attack can lead to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), the two are not the same, as a heart attack is when blood flow to the heart is blocked, but the heart continues to beat. Delivery of CPR can sustain life until first responders arrive by maintaining vital blood flow to the heart and brain. Survival depends on the quick actions of people nearby to call 911, start CPR and, if available, use an AED (automated external defibrillator).

Public safety communications centers send alerts through the app at the same time they dispatch first responders to the scene. The app is not activated for residential addresses. Further, the app also notifies users of the closest available AED and provides real-time feed of fire and EMS emergency calls.

Anyone with a smartphone can download the free PulsePoint Respond app through the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Once the app is installed, select the agency serving the area where you live or work to receive alerts. Users may follow more than one agency.

The American Heart Association estimates that effective bystander CPR, provided immediately after sudden cardiac arrest, can double or triple a person’s chance of survival. There are more than 3,300 cities now connected to PulsePoint and more than 1.4 million app subscribers.

SENIOR BUYER AMY GARDNER recently earned her Certified Public Purchasing (CPPB) designation.

The CPPB demonstrates the person has attained a prescribed level of competence and standards in public procurement. The requirements for certification consists of: formal education (Associate’s Degree or higher); three years’ experience as a Buyer; a minimum number of formal coursework in public procurement; and must also pass a rigorous test administered by the Universal Public Procurement Certification Council.

Amy said she wanted to get the certification so she can gain more responsibility and handle more complex procurements. She enjoys her job and working for the City of Suffolk.

Congratulations, Amy, on your achievement!

PURCHASING AGENT, JAY SMIGIELSKI,

is sworn in as the incoming President of the Virginia Association of Government Purchasing (VAGP). The VAGP is a trade organization dedicated to elevating Public Procurement by supporting purchasing professionals and the entities they serve.

The VAGP accomplishes this by education, networking, advocacy, and the establishment of policies and best practices.

Jay’s term began on January 1, 2020, and he will serve for one year.

Thank Yo us!

To Patrick Roberts, City Manager From Resident at 1005 Maryland Avenue “Your crew from Public Works led by Kevin Lee just finished jet washing the stormwater drain that flows from the ravine beside my house at 1005 Maryland Avenue, under Maryland Avenue, and into the Lake Meade catchment across the street. They were hardworking and intentional in tracing the water path to the outflow.

I am most appreciative that they confirmed the drainage flows and that they tracked the outflow to a boxed brick end with a sheet metal cover. This is on top of repairing the culvert pipe connect to the more modern stormwater drain last week. I am most impressed by the high quality work and speed with which the work was attended to.”

Passing Along a Compliment From Jessica Drake to Public Works “Skip Stiles, Executive Director of Wetlands Watch, presented “Hampton Roads Flooding Impacts and Action” at the Suffolk Forum hosted at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts. He was highly complimentary of the forward planning your Department is doing to ensure the infrastructure installed and stewarded today is ready for the higher sea levels in the coming decades.”

To Jennifer Sorensen, Public Works From Martha Wheeler Thank you for notifying me yesterday that cleanup had taken place on Indian Trail. Administratively, I want to thank everyone for their attention and prompt response to my concern. In addition, please express my gratitude to those City employees who actually cleaned up the deer carcasses, trash, etc., and let them know they are appreciated! They have an unpleasant and thankless job.

Also, thank you for your helpfulness and being pleasant to talk with when all you hear are complaints!”

To Cory Bland, Library Youth and Family Services Coordinator From Corey & Holley Graves “They say it takes a library to raise a child and we wanted to express our gratitude for all that you do for the little ones. You may only see the child for 30-60 minutes a week, but though brief moments they are lasting moments. You inspire them, you encourage them, you help to educate them. What you do matters, you matter. It’s not just what you teach or showcase for the week, it’s YOU and how you go about things. Your patience, your humor, your style.

So, at this time of year where we are to express our gratitude we just wanted to take a moment and say a big heartfelt thank you for all that you do. Keep up your amazing work. We look forward to continuing to grow with you!”

Pictured from left to right: James Clark, Lakeith Lowther, Barry Spears (seated), and Timothy Forbes.

SUFFOLK SHERIFF’ S OFFICE IN

THE COMMUNIT Y The Suffolk Sheriff’s Office

had a great turnout on Saturday, November 1st at the Kroger on College Drive! Sheriff Harris, Deputies Thomas, King, and Johnson enjoyed collecting items to donate to the Zion Community Church. A special thank you to the folks at Kroger on College Drive. for helping us out!

As The Holiday Season Approached, local food

pantries across the city were in need of supplies.

The Suffolk Sheriff’s Office was glad to help the food pantry at St. Paul’s Baptist Church on Lincoln Ave. Thanks Kroger (N. Main St.) for helping us set up our site to collect all of the donations!

The Suffolk Sheriff’s Office

had a blast at the Wellness Fair at the Hilton Hotel in Downtown Suffolk. Deputy Olson and Deputy Thomas were glad to demonstrate basic self-defense tactics for all visitors to see! Big thanks to the City of Suffolk for promoting and hosting such an exciting and informative event!

The Suffolk Sheriff’s Office had a great time during Operation Helping Hands 2019! Our toy drive was

a great success and we appreciate all of the donations. The Suffolk Sheriff’s office was able to contribute toys to three Suffolk Elementary Schools.

The Suffolk Sheriff’s Office

teamed up with the Isle of Wight County Sheriff’s Office and the Suffolk Police Department for the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #41’s Cops & Kids’ event!

Deputies and kids got to shop around Walmart to select toys and other items for their families for the Holidays. Major Miles, Sgt. Brinkley, and Deputy Davis of the Suffolk Sheriff’s Office had a wonderful time bonding with these families, making new friends and connections.

Deputy Miller recently presented the Eddie Eagle GunSafe program to students at Nansemond Parkway Elementary School. The Eddie Eagle GunSafe® program is a gun accident prevention program that seeks to help parents, law enforcement, community groups, and educators navigate a topic paramount to our children’s safety.

With gratitude and appreciation for their service to our country, Sheriff E.C. Harris, Lt. Cain, and Deputy Tim Johnson joined several veterans at Suffolk Autumn Care for lunch in honor of Veterans Day. They enjoyed sharing their military experiences as well as spending time together.

Thank you to all veterans across the nation for your service and sacrifice.

Each year, Americans take a day to honor the brave and proud citizens that have served or are serving in some branch of the United States military. Veterans Day is our chance to extend our gratitude to those with the courage to protect this nation, knowing that it may mean laying down their lives. Sheriff E.C. Harris and staff encourage you to take a moment to remember the sacrifices of the brave men and women who have valiantly fought to make America the greatest nation on Earth.

Welcome

NEW EMPLOYEES

Library: Skylar Hester, Administrative Services Coordinator Parks & Recreation: Jasmaine Downes, Recreation Leader; Pamela Jones, Recreation Leader Police: Branden Garrison, Police Officer I Public Utilities: Raekwon Smith, Utility Services Worker

September 17, 2019

Parks & Recreation: James Davis, Custodial Worker; Jonathon Harding, Custodial Worker; Omar Skinner, Grounds Maintenance Worker I; James Tice, Grounds Maintenance Worker II Planning & Community Development: Holly Steele, Planner I Police: Austin Cain, Police Officer I; George Drew, Police Officer I; Travis Reichmuth, Police Officer I Public Utilities: Kenneth Knight, Electronics Technician

October 2, 2019

Capital Programs: Michael Grizzle, Building Maintenance Technician Library: Danielle Schriner, Library Associate Parks & Recreation: Travius Cheeks, Grounds Maintenance Worker I; Jerrell Demiel, Recreation Leader; Christina Spruill, Recreation Leader Police: Eric Alexander, Police Officer I; Cody Cobb, Police Officer I; Kristin Whalen, Police Officer I

October 16, 2019

Photo Not Available November 1, 2019

Circuit Court: Katie O’Neal, Deputy Court Clerk I Fire: Christopher Ashley, Firefighter I; Jason Borum, Firefighter I; William Copeland, Project Life Saver; David Gross, Firefighter I; Justin Guffey, Firefighter I; Austin Loudermilk, Firefighter I; Wesley McCaw, Firefighter I; Bryan Moore, Firefighter I; David Poulson, Firefighter I; Matthew Terry, Firefighter I; Robert Young, Firefighter I Planning & Community Development: Christine Hyatt, Zoning Inspector I Police: Kristin Dolan, Marketing Specialist; Timothy Mason, Police Officer I; Christopher Vaughan, Police Officer I Public Works: Dominique Boone, Heavy Equipment Operator I; Derriel Robinson, Street Maintenance Worker I Social Services: Darryl Grant, Family Services Worker II; Machalia Hall, Office Assistant; Sharazard Harmon, Family Services Worker I; Salathiel Harrington, Family Services Worker I; Dareeka King, Family Services Worker II

November 15, 2019

December 3, 2019

December 17, 2019

January 3, 2020

City Attorney’s Office: DeAndra Connally, Paralegal Parks & Recreation: Chris Griffin, Recreation Leader; Ca’Stachia Turner, Recreation Leader; Shenetta Williams, Recreation Leader Police: Caitlin Fischbach, Communications Operator I; Sarah Parks, Forensic Technician Public Utilities: Michael Harvey, Water Treatment Plant Operator I; Steven Rose, Utility Systems Worker; De’Quante Winborne, Utility Systems Worker Public Works: Brandon Beecher, Construction Inspector I; Javar Boone, Street Maintenance Worker II; Darryl Lewis, Capital Improvement Program Manager; Michelle Pasco, Civil Engineer I; Karlous Rowson, Traffic Signal Technician I Social Services: Tamika Valentine, Financial Services Case Manager II

Assessor’s Office: Courtney Smith, Land Use Compliance Coordinator Capital Programs: Leon Artis, Custodial Worker Parks & Recreation: Daniel Jones, Park Attendant; Keandra Polite, Recreation Leader Public Utilities: Mark Byrum, Utility Systems Worker; Darryl House, Utility Systems Worker Public Works: Derek Granger, Street Maintenance Worker I; Christopher Runnels, Paint Technician Sheriff’s Office: Leon Parker, Jr., Deputy Sheriff III Social Services: George Chavies, Local Probation Officer; Zhane Hill, Family Services Worker I

Assessor’s Office: Janey Culpepper, Deputy Assessor City Attorney’s Office: Leila Garcia, Paralegal Information Technology: Hasani Patterson, Computer Support Tech Library: Evette Keen, Adult Program Services Coordinator Planning & Community Development: Jennifer Cobb, Assistant Zoning Administration and Enforcement Coordinator Police: Michael Childs, Police Officer I; Hallie Miller, Police Officer I Social Services: Monique Webb, Financial Services Case Manager II

Commonwealth Attorney’s Office: Edward Ferreira, Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney II; Emily McLaughlin, Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney II Fire: Whitney Hubbard, Paramedic; Delaney Townsend, Paramedic; James Villers, Paramedic; Dillon Woody, Paramedic Library: Renee Brady, Library Associate Parks & Recreation: Brandon Roberts, Recreation Leader Public Utilities: Mike Dryer, Construction Inspector I Sheriff’s Office: Teresa Colleran, Deputy Sheriff II Social Services: Latonya Bell, Screening Clerk; Faye Billups, Family Services Worker I; Jasmin Murrary, Screening Clerk; Alexis Powell, Office Assistant; Roberta Reese, Financial Services Case Manager I; Gloria Vargas, Financial Services Case Manager I

Parks & Recreation: Gwendolyn Artis, Office Assistant; Mart Theodore De Vera, Office Assistant; Jeffrey Mecum, Custodial Worker Police: David Adams, Police Officer II; James Chapman, Police Officer I; Tamara Jamison, Police Officer I; Elizabeth Kellogg, Police Officer I; India Resendiz, Police Officer II

January 22, 2020

Fall Events

PEANUT FEST

Fall Events

On October 29, 2019, participants in Suffolk Public Library’s Homeschool Program attended a tour and lecture at City Hall that was presented by Diana Klink, Director of Media & Community Relations.

SUFFOLK PUBLIC LIBRARY’S HOMESCHOOL PROGRAM

Fall Events

HALLOWEEN

The Suffolk Sheriff’s Office has hired Captain America! Thanks for all of your help this Halloween Captain, we sure do appreciate it!

Wow! On Halloween, we got a visit from not only Captain America but also Minnie Mouse! Deputy Brinkley was so excited to see Minnie while walking through the courthouse. Thanks for visiting us Minnie Mouse!

Chills and Thrills at Whaleyville Recreation Center

Holiday Fun The Suffolk Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office filled 30 stockings for youth in the community for the Salvation Army. This is the 3rd consecutive year of filling 30 stockings, however, this endeavor has been a tradition for over 15 years in the Suffolk Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

Pictured left to right are: (Front Row) Karen Williams, Chief Administrative Manager; Joan Turner, Community Outreach Coordinator; Derek Colvin, Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney; C. Phillips “Phil” Ferguson, Suffolk Commonwealth’s Attorney; Sharon Smith, Assistant Director for Victim/Witness Services; T. Marie Walls-, Chief Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney; Glenda Taylor, Legal Assistant.

(Back Row) Susan H. Walton, Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney; Sarah Gardner, Legal Assistant; Brittany Landon, Assistant Director for Victim/Witness Services; Katherine Gardner, Assistant Director for Victim/Witness Services; Treva Stokes, Legal Assistant; Katherine Gray, Victim/Witness Program Assistant; Diane Bryant, Director for Victim/Witness Services; J. Vince Molitor, Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney; Brandon Wrobleski, Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney; Kara Webber, Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney.

Suffolk DSS had its holiday party on Thursday, December 13th which was organized by the DSS Employee Morale Team (E.M.T.) whose goal is to bring life to the agency. As part of the entertainment, numerous staff members participated in the holiday edition of Family Feud.

Since Steve Harvey was not available, Azeez Felder, the DSS Director, made an appearance as Leave Garvey and served as the host.

Holiday Fun

We thoroughly enjoyed the Holiday Parade in downtown Suffolk! Thanks to everyone for their hard work and congratulations to all the winners! It’s a great time to be in Suffolk!

Deputies along with the Jolly ‘Ole Man himself joined in some Bingo games at Autumn Care with residents. Santa along with his deputy elves delivered some gifts and much needed cheer. This definitely was a heartwarming event for all!

SUFFOLK, VIRGINIA

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Exciting changes,

just for you. Thanks to the Home Use Program, you’re already familiar with Microsoft Office. This email is to share how the program has changed.

You can now get the flexibility and productivity of a yearly subscription of Office 365 at a discounted price for use on personal devices. This replaces the previous offerings of Office Professional Plus 2019 and Office Home and Business 2019.

CLICK HERE TO VERIFY YOUR ELIGIBILITY

CITY NOTIFICATIONS: If there is an emergency or an incident that could affect the City’s operating hours, there are numerous steps taken to make sure you are alerted as soon as possible.

• • • • • •

Citywide email Telephone greeting accessed by dialing the City’s main telephone number, 757-514-4000 Ticker crawl on City’s homepage: www.SuffolkVa.us Ticker crawl and/or bulletin on Spectrum Local Access Channel 190 Ticker crawl on local television stations: WTKR News Channel 3, WAVY News 10, and WVEC 13 News Now City’s Facebook, Twitter.

THANKS TO THE NEWSLETTER TEAM! Have an article you’d like to see in our newsletter? See your Department Representative!

Assessor’s Office - Barbara Jones | Capital Programs - Wayne Rhoads | Circuit Court- Jennifer Rockey | City Attorney’s Office - Loreida Jennings | Commissioner of the Revenue - Brandon Darden | Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office - Joan Turner | Economic Development - Terry Smith | Finance/Purchasing - Susan Baines | Fire & Rescue - Mike Brinkley | Human Resources - Becky Brown |Information Technology - Debby Williams | Library - Angie Sumner| Media & Community Relations - Nicole Duncan |Parks & Recreation - Chelsea Price | Planning & Community Development - Jillian Scott-Hale | Police - Chad Hooker | 911 - Veronica Vinas | Public Utilities - Vicki Smith | Public Works - Susan Anderson | Sheriff’s Office - Katie Jones | Social Services - Adonnica McCain & Dakota McNeill | Treasurer’s Office - Andrew Owen

UPCOMING EVENTS

See You Next Time!