Memphis 9-1-1 Magazine | August 2024

I S H 9 P 1 M E 1 M

august 2024

Official Publication of the MPD Emergency Communications Bureau

MEMPHIS POLICE DEPARTMENT

EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS BUREAU

ABOUT US We are one of the busiest 9-1-1 centers in the country.

We receive over 630,000 9-1-1 calls and more than 500,000 non-emergency calls each year.

ECB Monthly Mission This front-line led publication seeks to

The MPD Emergency Communications Bureau (ECB) is the primary Public

inspire and motivate ECB telecommunicators by highlighting employee accomplishments.

Safety Answering Point

The selected stories and content are

(PSAP) for the City of

shared with the intent to disseminate

Memphis; and the only

useful information about the Bureau,

provider of Law Enforcement

Memphis Police Department and the

dispatch services for the Memphis Police Department.

9-1-1 industry as a whole.

Furthermore, we aspire to increase transparency and communication

We consistently meet the

between management and the floor;

national standard by

and improve overall employee morale.

answering 95.4% of our 9-1-1 calls in less than 20 seconds.

AUGUST 2024/ FALL

issue twenty- SIX

table of contents THE MAYOR STOPPED BY - JAMETA YOUNG PAGE 4 AN OFFICER’S THANKS - ALEXANDRIA LOVE PAGE 6 IN THE FIELD - ANTONAE PARKER PAGE 7

GRIEF SUPPORT - CYIA HILL PAGE 18 SEA OF BLUE - LAWANA STAMPS PAGE 32 DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT - JESSE MCCORD PAGE 29 RETIREMENT REFLECTION - KAREN OLLIE PAGE 41 RAINES STATION DEBRIEF - TEDDRICK BOYD - PAGE 46

APCO 2024

and MORE!

NENA 2024

Editor’s Notes: We’ve been slacking. Thank you for your patience. We appreciate everyone who made this issue possible. Thank you for staying on us about the release. To everyone who sent a photo, posed for a picture, provided a write up and content, many thanks. You made this issue possible. You keep sending the content, we’ll keep producing the issues.

-Deranecque & Erica EDITOR IN CHIEF- DERANECQUE SIMS

EDITOR - ERICA MAY

CONTRIBUTOR - LINDA HOLLINGSWORTH

Mayor Young visits Communications During our Easter family gathering, I mentioned National Tele-Communications Week to my first cousin, Mayor Paul Young. I shared with him the importance of the week and how the Memphis Police Department’s Dispatchers are the “real” first responders. Most people don’t understand that in order to receive police, fire, or ambulance services you must first speak with a call taker or dispatcher. I asked Mayor Young to come visit the dispatchers with the hopes of surprising them and boosting the morale. Mayor Young advised me to get with his administrative assistant and I did just that. I was so excited that he agreed to come visit us.

When Mayor Young arrived, he took time to greet and thank each dispatcher working the radios before making his way over to each call taker. He also toured the Communications Bureau of the Memphis Fire Departments to meet and thank their team as well.

Manager Sims provided Mayor Young with a guided tour and explanation of how the city was divided into the various precincts, priority calls and the mapping system that we used. He was very intrigued with all the dispatcher’s responsibilities. Mayor Young said he had no idea that dispatchers did all of the things he was shown. He told me that he wants to come back and spend more time to see how the ECB operates.

Thanks, Mayor Young for making MPD’s dispatchers a priority during National Telecommunications Week 2024. We look forward to your next visit.

SPRD Jameta Young

Respect + Compassion = Appreciation

Officer Sam Mills was involved in a severe accident on 08/06/23. He surprised me at work recently, thanking me with a hug and a card. I take my job seriously and strive to ensure the officers all get home safely to the best of my ability. It felt great to know for myself that he was doing well.

-PRD Alexandria Love

Keeping up with Officer Parker

Out in the field, I have noticed a few different things and it's changed my perspective completely. You'd be surprised how I can actually notice the mind shift from thinking like a dispatcher to thinking like an Officer. It still dawns on me every now and then that I'm not going back up to Communications and my coworkers stop me midconversation when I use "we" when referring to dispatchers.

😂

I'm having so much fun driving these cars and making scenes. I enjoy being proactive, so we'll have less work on the back end and that seems to be working in our favor.

I'm still like the person everyone on the shift calls to ask why the dispatcher did X, Y, and Z... but at this point, I stopped answering the phone lol... I will say one thing, dispatcher attitude has an affect on the entire radio. We really appreciate dispatchers that take the job seriously and try to be knowledgeable about the job Officers have to do. It makes a noticeable difference. I try to be as polite as possible though... I try.

Love, peace, and happiness. ~ Officer Parker

APCO CONFERENCE REFLECTION MANAGER

DERANECQUE

SIMS,

ENP,

CPE

This year, I had the unique opportunity to attend APCO 2024 not only as an attendee but also as a speaker. I co-presented a Think Tank session titled “What’s the Point?

Meetings That Matter” with Paducah Police Department E911 Manager, Ariana Kitty, and then my very own 60-minute session titled “Leadering Out Loud!” While I have presented at the state level before, being selected to present on a national stage was a different experience. I felt a mix of nervousness, anxiousness, and excitement all at the same time. Speaking in front of a larger, less familiar audience was a little intimidating, but seeing a few familiar faces in the crowd helped to calm my nerves – #TeamMemphis.

During the presentation, I shared personal perspectives and experiences, engaged in discussions, listened to others’ experiences, and exchanged feedback. Although I don’t consider myself a subject matter expert, I believe my years of experience and gained knowledge are valuable and worth sharing. We each have a story to tell. We all have something to contribute. (Remember that!)

Beyond the presentations, I was excited to immerse myself in the conference experience—learning, networking, and (re)connecting. I attended committee meetings, which allowed me to be more up-close and personal with colleagues and get a little background on things to come. Attending daily learning sessions and hearing from speakers from varying center sizes, backgrounds, and levels of experience provided valuable insights into the latest advancements, best practices, and improvements in public safety. Networking with other attendees, from frontline telecommunicators to supervisors to directors to industry leaders, allowed me to exchange ideas and build connections that will benefit my professional development and career advancement.

Ariana Kitty (Paducah Police Dept.) & Manager Sims

Ultimately, my goal for APCO 2024 was to enjoy the experience and contribute meaningfully to the conversations surrounding public safety and 9-1-1 communications. By attending and participating in sessions, engaging with fellow attendees, and sharing my knowledge and experiences through my presentation, I hope I inspired someone to learn more, do more, and expand their own actions beyond the console.

Added bonuses, and truly exciting highlights of the conference were the after-session moments. One in particular was the APCO Block Party at Universal Studios, where I enjoyed laughing, screaming, eating, and spending time with my peers and their families and my husband. Fun times were had! ~ Manager Deranecque Sims

Supporting Smiles! #TeamMemphis

APCO 2024 REFLECTIONS My experience at this year's APCO in Orlando, FL gave me an insight that included seeing that we (PSAPs) all over the country, even Anchorage, Alaska (I met a dispatcher from that far away) are facing some of the same issues. Burn out, retention, PTSD, and how to help a citizen with THEIR location (hint, hint: with What 3 words). The purpose of us being there was to attend classes, collaborate and get some ideas or maybe solutions on how to get in front of or quell some of the issues. A broad spectrum of classes was offered. I took advantage of attending quite a few classes during this conference and also got a chance to see our own Manager Deranecque Sims "Leadering Out Loud" (the title for her class, on purpose). It was an honor sitting under her tutelage for an hour absorbing leadership skills. Leadership is not about a title, but it is an acquired and applied skill in an effort to get a group of people to accomplish a particular goal.

Each of us have leadership abilities we just lead in different ways.

At the Distinguished Achievers Breakfast, sponsored by L3HARRIS, speaker Anthony Robles...born without a right leg, full of perseverance, hard work and a solid belief in self, not only led him to success but led him to become unstoppable.

These same qualities we embody daily. Look for the movie, 'UNSTOPPABLE', coming soon based on Mr. Robles life.

Denzell was just a bit too old to play his part but would have been a very resembling match!!!!

Thank you again for this awesome learning opportunity!!!!

-PRD Julia Robinson, RPL

I recently had the opportunity to attend my first APCO conference in Orlando, Florida. It was a great experience to "get away" and immerse myself in the various classes and activities offered at the event. The conference was wellorganized, and the range of courses provided was both extensive and interesting, making the overall experience enriching and valuable. Many of the classes I chose to attend were focused on improving myself as a leader. One of my favorites was “Lead Loud: Leadership Lessons to Make Some Noise About” by Roxanne Van Gundy (synopsis below). During my downtime, I enjoyed being able to spend time with my ECB co-workers and Memphis Fire employees. We took advantage of our free time in the evenings by eating, shopping, hanging out, and enjoying Universal Studios. Overall, it was a great experience, and I am grateful to have been selected to attend.

Key Take-Aways from Lead Loud: Leadership Lessons to Make Some Noise About · Leadership is accountability, courage, kindness, and a little bit of advocacy. We must hold ourselves, our team, our co-workers and our administrators accountable. “If you allow it, you promote it”. - Stop letting things go! · Leaders should model appropriate boundaries. All team members must take responsibility for establishing their boundaries and respecting the boundaries set by others. · Being clear and consistent in your boundaries and accountability are VITAL! · We can ALL be leaders. Leading loud is constantly striving to be a better leader than you were yesterday, having the courage to seek to understand, and having the courage to choose joy!

-Supervisor Metrica Spears, ENP

e are herrian S . s M & Ms.Julia for fun!

Ready

Sherriane, Metrica, Julia, Markisha, & Deranecque smile for a conference selfie.

Going into the APCO conference, as a relatively new dispatcher, I had no idea what to expect. To be quite honest it was overwhelming walking into the huge venue, hardly knowing a single soul there.

Little did I know what a lasting impact it would make on me. It was refreshing to hear the stories of my fellow peers and being able to relate and connect to people I’ve never even met before. There was so much passion in the speeches and it was truly inspiring. It felt like every word was exactly what I needed to hear, and it’s given me a renewed sense of purpose and motivation. The greatest part of the convention for me however was how it brought my coworkers and myself closer together. It was nice being able to connect on a much more personal level. I am so thankful for this experience and will definitely hold it close to my heart.

APCO 2024 REFLECTIONS

~Justin Woods, MFD Fire Alarm Operator II

Justin & Ms. Julia took a ride on the Orlando Sling Shot! The rest of us watched!

I had an amazing experience connecting with so many dedicated frontline telecommunicators at APCO. I learned a lot from the Think Tank sessions, educational classes/seminars, and exhibits. I was very excited to see and use the new Vesta we will be installing soon at my comm center! I shared a lot of the information with my colleagues and I brought back "freebies". I am very grateful that I was offered the opportunity to attend! ~ LaShondra Jones, MFD Fire Alarm Operator III

TEDRA ASKS: Why do you like living in Memphis?

1. Men with beards on Beale 2. Affordable cost of living 3. Cool slang 4. The fact that no matter who you are or where you go, we don't take no mess, get mad in a minute, and will bust you in your face 5. I grew up in Orange Mound. Despite recent news, the Mound was always a neighborhood rich of culture, love, and support. We respected our elders and each other.

Orange mound was one of two neighborhoods in the United States built by and for African Americans 6. Honey Hot Wings 7. Diversity 8. Rich in History 9. Food 10. Home

PROUD MOM PRD Heather Glissen’s daughter, Theo graduated from Christian Brothers University this past May. In August, she moved to Florida where she will be part of the Disney College Program. Theo will be working at the Walt Disney World Caribbean Beach Resort, learning how to spread Disney magic.

FAMILY VISITS

coping with my mother’s passsing

by PRD Cyia Hill I am sharing my experience with grief as a form of therapy. As many of you know my mother transitioned in December. Most of you are familiar with her through the stories I’ve shared. She was a huge part of my life, there was not a decision I made that did not include her. She was my immediate family and completed my household. When my mother passed, I was in the hospital. I was only supposed to be in the hospital overnight, however I stayed for three days.

My mother passed away at our home the night before I was discharged from the hospital. I know it was part of God’s plan for me not to be home when it occurred, however I struggle with extreme guilt.

-story continues on the next page

I felt the situation might have been different if I was home when the incident occurred. I am currently in counseling working through this heavy process.

I have an excellent support system. I must realize that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. I have always been a private person and this experience is forcing me to extend myself beyond my norm. It reminds me that people are not mind readers, communication is key.

Grief is complex, it affects you mentally, physically and spiritually. I am going to include my personal pallet of grief to show some of the symptoms I have experienced.

Listen to your body, take the time you need and remember you are doing the best you can. Experiencing grief is a part of life’s cycle. In the words of Senior PRD Hardy, “Stay Hydrated.” We should never underestimate its importance.

I’ve experienced anxiety returning to work. I did not know what to expect. I was afraid of the attention, hugs, smiles, the welcome backs, signs of affection and reminders of my loss. I am grateful for the thoughts and prayers.

We all will experience love and loss in some form if we are lucky. It can be difficult balancing grief and working in a demanding field. You should take advantage of the resources that are available to you. Everyone’s healing process is different, there will be highs and lows on this roller coaster of grief. I have chosen to use grief counseling, individual counseling and exercising as coping strategies.

Remember CONCERN is available.

For more information call 901-4584000 / 1-800-445-5011 or visit www.myconcerneap.com

NENA 2024: A Week of Learning, Networking & Comraderie

by Manager Jesse McCord, ENP, RPL Attending the NENA 2024 conference in Saturday was packed with valuable Orlando, FL, from June 28 to July 3, was an sessions. I, ECM Stiger, and ECS Pender enriching and unforgettable experience. I attended the CMCP Alumni Seminar from had the pleasure of being in attendance 08:30 to 17:00. The seminar, facilitated by with a distinguished group of colleagues: Paul Hicks and Mark Swiderski, featured a Col Burford, ECM Stiger, ECS Boswell, ECS range of insightful topics such as "Legal and Meriweather, ECS Pender, ECS Morris, ECS Liability in the 9-1-1 Center," "Cyber Anderson, ECS May, PRD Reeves, PRD Security Resiliency and Best Practices," Withers, PRD Ollie, PRD Neil, CAD "Governmental Affairs," "Maximizing Tech/PRD Coughlin, and ERCO Ringwald.

Employee Performance," "Improving Call Our journey began early Friday morning at Transfers with the NENA EPRC," "Using AI to Memphis International Airport, where we Reduce Administrative Burden and Enhance gathered for our flight to Orlando. The 9-1-1 Services," and "9-1-1's Ability to camaraderie was palpable, and it seemed Impact Highway Safety." The seminar's we were inseparable until our departure diverse lineup of speakers, including NENA from Orlando. This closeness allowed us to employees, private sector consultants, bond and get to know each other on a CISA, NHTSA, and legal experts, made for a deeper level. rich and informative experience.

ECS Anderson and ECS Morris traveled earlier to attend the pre-conference 9-1-1 Center Supervisor Program, while Col Burford arrived early for the NENA Center Manager Certification Program (CMCP).

Myself, PRD Reeves, and ECS Morris had planned to participate in the Run for 9-1-1 5k on Friday night, but a delay in Charlotte, NC, coupled with the Orlando heat, thwarted our plans.

The NENA Kick-Off Celebration followed the seminar. Despite the unpredictable Orlando weather forcing the originally outdoor Swamp-themed event indoors, the celebration was lively and engaging.

The conference officially began on Sunday, June 30, with a plethora of breakout sessions and an expansive Expo Hall. The variety of classes, new instructors, and innovative technology on display was the most impressive I've seen. Each day began early, with keynote speakers setting an inspiring tone. Tuesday offered a unique start with Yoga for 9-1-1 Professionals, led by "The Healthy Dispatcher" Kris Inman, the former Director of Springfield-Greene County 9-1-1.

The breakout sessions catered to every professional level and interest, covering topics like DEI, Leadership, Technology, Management, Preparedness, Growth, Frontline Skills, Wellness, Data, Staffing, Culture, Public Education & Outreach, and Contemporary Topics. The instructors ranged from industry newcomers to seasoned veterans with over 40 years of service.

As a Manager, much of my time was spent networking with vendors and exploring new trends and technologies. However, I also attended some standout sessions.

"Recruitment through the Power of Storytelling," taught by Within the Trenches instructor Ricardo Martinez, and the "Cultivating Inclusive Leadership in 9-1-1" panel featuring Dru Clarke, Andrea King, and Erika Lakey, were particularly impactful. These sessions resonated with me due to their focus on inclusivity and leadership in the 9-1-1 center, topics I am deeply passionate about.

Conferences like NENA 2024 are crucial for advancing our industry. They provide a rare opportunity to pause, reflect, and connect with peers. The relationships forged and the knowledge gained at this conference will undoubtedly influence my career for years to come. Being a NENA member has been instrumental in my growth, and I have no regrets. The people I've met and the experiences I've had have shaped me into the Manager I am today.

Attending NENA 2024 was not just an honor; it was an investment in our collective future. I look forward to continuing to build on the connections and knowledge gained during this incredible week.

Marvin & Margaret in First Class

Economy Vibes

NENA 2024: by ERCO Cori Ringwald I am thankful I was granted the opportunity to attend the NENA conference in Orlando. This shows not only me, but others that ERCO's are also seen as a valuable part of our team. I appreciate not only the money invested, but also the confidence in my abilities.

I chose a variety of classes ranging from “How to Deal with a Narcissist” to “If Disney Ran your ECC”.

I gained a lot of useful information. I learned specifically of a free website open to PSAP's called "EPRC". Currently only our supervisors have access to this amazing and free tool.

This website/app would allow all call takers and dispatchers to transfer callers to a primary PSAP when requesting help outside our jurisdiction. Many times, citizens dial 911 for loved ones in other cities or states. Rather than just google a number that maybe ineffective and delay services for their loved ones, we can simply input any address in the USA or Canada, and it will give up the correct number. This tool can be a valuable asset to us here at ECB. Another great tool I learned about is understanding emotion IQ. This not only improves our call taking but also our relationships inside the Bureau by becoming more aware. This in essence will also help prevent turnover. Who doesn't want more time with our families?

Our floors are often a "pressure cooker", learning and sharing this information is invaluable to our growth.

This has refreshed me and motivated me to continue to give my best efforts to the bureau and the citizens of Memphis. I promise that my appreciation for this opportunity will show up in my QA scores.

🙂

Another bonus/perk to going on this trip was getting the opportunity to spend time with coworkers outside of the bureau.

Spotted at NENA Former ECB Supervisors Jeremiah and Chynika

WORK SMILES :-)

(left to right) SPRD Tarrashea Simpson, PRD Julia Robinson, Manager Jesse McCord, Training Coordinator Ashley Boswell, PRD Ashley Reeves

This year, at the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) Conference, 911der Women Inc. accepted nominations for their esteemed 911der Woman of the Year Award. These ladies were all nominated, by Manager Jesse McCord for their exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment to our community and our department. Manager McCord presented them with honorable mention certificates and a special gift during Charlie shift roll call. This is an honor well deserved!

-PRD Linda Hollingsworth

DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT PRD LINDA HOLLINGSWORTH, RPL Linda Hollingsworth has just reached her 12th year of service. PRD Hollingsworth has made significant contributions to the Memphis Police Department (MPD) since becoming a Police Radio Dispatcher (PRD) in 2012.

Beyond her duties in dispatch, she has taken on the role of a Communications Training Officer (CTO), demonstrating her deep passion for the emergency communications field.

PRD Hollingsworth's commitment extends into community and educational programs, notably including the Citizens' Police Academy, where she helps demystify police work for the community, and career fairs, where she represents the MPD and educates attendees about the critical role of dispatchers in emergency response.

Her most remarkable work perhaps lies in teaching high school students about the 9-1-1 industry, guiding young minds to understand and consider careers in emergency communications. Through these efforts, PRD Hollingsworth not only enriches her colleagues and the MPD's operations but also plays a vital role in fostering a safer, well-informed community in Memphis. Her dedication is a beacon of service and education, highlighting the indispensable role of police radio dispatchers in public safety.

Submitted by Manager Jesse McCord

I really look forward to our First Friday celebrations each month! I enjoy how the supervisors and manager point out the positive attributes of the employees and gives us all a chance to applaud them for being such great assets to the Emergency Communications Bureau. It's really refreshing to be able to come to work and feel appreciated and noticed for our hard work and dedication. Some of us have worked here for years and some are just beginning their journey, but to know that what you do each day brings value to the bureau as a whole is very rewarding!

-PRD Shayla Holmes

SUPPORTING THE SEA OF BLUE This year MPD lost two officers in the line of duty Officer Joseph McKinney & Officer Demetrice Johnson. PRD Lawana Stamps organized a meetup for Communications to stand together in solidarity and participate the Sea of Blue.

On April 12, 2024, The Memphis Police Department endured a great loss, especially those at Raines Station. My heart went out to them because I work Raines radio quiet often and I have a rapport with most of them. To hear the hurt in their voices days after the tragic event, I knew we had to do something to show support. I rallied up a group of like-minded dispatchers and we went to work. Nzinga Withers and Supervisor Jameta Young assisted me with making the signs for the sea of blue. I would like to thank officer T. Mingo of Tillman Station for getting us some supplies to complete our signs.

We met in front of Geeter Jr. High School with our signs to show our support for the men and women in blue. Thanks to Supervisors Hazel Merriweather and Erica May, Nzinga Withers, Dana Massey and Eboni Atkins. Chandra Catron and Melissa Ivey even brought along their families to help show support.

I still felt obligated to do more. With the help of my coworkers, I collected enough funds to feed all 3 shifts a nice hot meal. I knew we couldn't take away their pain, but I would like to think that we made their hearts smile. The officers were very appreciative and thankful for us thinking of them. I could not have pulled off setting up and cleaning up for all 3 shifts without Cassandra Berry, Nzinga Withers, LaQuange Watkins, and Ashley Reeves. It was great to put a face with some of the voices heard over the radio. Thanks to Manager Sims and Manager Stiger for their assistance as well. I know sometimes it seems like it is us against them, but when they hurt, we do too.

We Just wanted to step up and represent the thin gold line, the voices that are often heard and rarely seen.

-PRD Lawana Stamps

We Honor You and Your Service!

If you are a NENA member, check out the webinar on September 19th. The presenter is our very own, Erica May. Register at nena.org The webinar will be available on replay.

NENA Women In 9-1-1 Webinar Social Media : The Good, The Bad & The Ugly Thursday September 19 | 2PM CST More than 5 billion people use social media every day for an average of 2 to 3 hours. From job seeking to business, to elections, all the way down to the way we keep up with our loved ones, social media has changed the world. In this session, we will briefly discuss the positive effects of social media. But as an awareness topic we will delve into the "not so good impact", harmful, and dangerous impact social media is making on society. For example, did you know the U. S. Surgeon General has issued a health advisory related to social media and mental health? At the end of this conclusion, you will be able to identify the ways excessive social media usage can have a negative impact on your health. Attendees also will be equipped with resources, strategies and methods to promote safe interactions and digital citizenship.

To KO:

I remember when we first met, we were working Charlie shift. I was just a little over a year in and you, Dewanda, and former PRD Terri Burrton were talking. You asked me was I okay and I assured you I was. The conversation ended with Dewanda calling you “sis” and Terri referencing you as her “best friend”. I said, “hey you can’t call her that, she’s my best friend!” Hence, the “BF/best friend” term was given to our newly established relationship. From that moment and to this day, you’ve been that and much more to me. Thanks for the support, both personally and professionally, that you’ve given me over the years. Although I may not be your real “BF”, I consider you to be one of the most helpful, giving, coworkers I have. I’m going to miss your chicken salad, the specialty crackers, and all of the surprise treats! BF, I will miss you more than you know! I hope that your retirement brings you joy and peace. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Love you much, Jameta “Jam” Young

PARTING WORDS After 27 years, Karen Ollie, affectionately known as KO, retires from Communications.

My most favorite memories are when we unite to support each other and our families during difficult times, such as death or illness. It brings my heart joy to see us work together as a family instead of shifts. I also love TCW, all the eating, games, and wearing themed t-shifts. These were really fun and enjoyable times.

I hope my coworkers remember me as dependable, reliable, helpful and always having a snack to share.

I knew it was time to retire when I no longer had the desire or passion for the job and that wasn't safe for me or officers. I no longer wanted to participate in activities. This was hard for me to accept because I accepted the job because I knew I would be able to help citizens.

My advice to others nearing retirement is Get Your Ducks in a Row. Eliminate excessive spending and as much debt as you can while working so you can thoroughly enjoy retirement.

In retirement, I first plan to rest! No more 12-hour shifts (mandatory overtime) or 7day work weeks. I have a few projects planned around the house. I want to start gardening and mainly I am looking forward to traveling.

I am most proud of the relationships I made. I have met some incredibly, talented and hardworking people.

When I started, I was one of the oldest trainees in my class, so it took me longer to grasp the job, that being said I would like to thank everyone who trained me, gave me advice, and helped me in any way to become a dispatcher. I was not the first or best in my class, but I made it. After all, the scripture reads the race is not given to the swift nor the strong but the one who endures.

KANDACE BOOKER

tha nk Kandace Booker started her career as a general clerk in Central you Records, then moved into the Property Room and worked as supervisor before she found her way to Communications in 1994.

33 Years of Service!

She retired with 33 years of service to the City of Memphis.

Kandace was a model employee who never gave us any problems. I gave her the nickname - Trouble! But that was not because of anything negative. It was because every time I saw her coming, she was asking for some time OFF! She was an exceptional CTO who was thorough and very detailed. Kandace you will be missed but we wish you the best in your retirement. ~ SPRD Marvin Pender

You will be missed Kandace!

KANDACE

Kandace, You have always been my friend since we worked together in Central Records. I will always remember your smile, caring ways and animated personality while working the radio. One of my favorite vacations was our trip to Paris. I wish you happiness and peace in this next chapter of life.

Katrina Towles

CLEAN UP WOMAN

I have so much love and respect for these ladies! This shows that on any given day, we never know where we'll be needed.

We recognize opportunities to represent who we genuinely are in heart. Michelle Gaylor and Andrea Heaston cleaned the entire Communications Bureau wall to wall "literally". This is a magnificent example of on-the-job ministry in progress. We don't complain about what's not being done. The fact that it's not within our "job description" is irrelevant. What we do is become aware of the need and "JUST DO IT".

PRD Linda Hollingsworth

t h r e e t f S a t o r m l m a C

by PRD Teddrick Boyd

On April 12, 2024, we tragically lost one of our own, Officer Joseph McKinney in the line of duty. In our grief, Major Lolita Robinson invited Alpha Shift’s Emergency Communications Manager Margaret PhillipsStiger, Supervisor Paris Anderson, PRD Cassandra Berry, PRD Teddrick Boyd (myself), PRD Andrew Bryd, and PRDT Mattie Mountain to Raines Station Alpha Shift’s Roll Call to meet for "The Calm After the Storm." We were joined by Chief Davis, Assistant Chief Don Crowe, Raines Station Colonel Carlos Davis, Major, Lieutenants, and officers.

We held a gathering and spoke fond words of Officer McKinney and attempted to heal each other through prayer and camaraderie.

This was my first time working on a critical incident like this, and I was grateful to have so many people near me to assist and help make a difficult situation tolerable. At the time, I was equally shocked, devastated, and proud of how my fellow officers handled the event in light of the circumstances. It made me proud to be part of such a talented, dedicated, and knowledgeable team and overall department for the professionalism shown.

Col. Davis, SPRD Anderson, PRD Byrd, Chief Davis, PRD Boyd, PRD Berry, PRDT Mountain, Mgr. Stiger, Mjr. Robinson

B a e c m k o X c a l e W #TEAMBRAVO n

This is Good Eating!

Lt. Kingery and Sgt Suarez ( assigned to Sex Crimes) take a tour of Communications during their TIES class with Supervisor R. Phillips.

Karonda says Hello ! - Look at who I ran into at Fresh Market. I invited her to the fish fry. #pullup

FROM THE EDITOR There’s only a few months remaining in 2024. It hasn’t been the easiest year, but we have endured. The call volume increased and so did the overtime. Yet, you remained committed. You showed up and you showed out. Every day was not perfect. Every day was not ideal.

But things got done. Thank you.

We are in a unique position to make a difference daily. Each one of you plays a critical role in the success of the ECB. Your focus and positive attitude contribute to a healthy and productive work environment. Remember, we are a team – supporting one another, celebrating successes, and learning from mistakes and challenges together.

Staying mentally and physically healthy is paramount to our ability to perform at our best. You are your biggest responsibility. Make selfcare a priority, and never hesitate to reach out if you need support.

Use your resources. Don’t be afraid to ask for help - professionally or personally.

May the remainder of this year be even greater.

Thank you for your dedication. Thank you for being part of the MPD Emergency Communications Bureau.

Manager Deranecque Sims