MEMPHIS9-1-1
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.
The MPD Emergency Communications Bureau (ECB) is the primary Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) for the City of Memphis; and the only provider of Law Enforcement dispatch services for the Memphis Police Department.
We consistently meet the national standard by answering 95 4% of our 9-1-1 calls in less than 20 seconds.
ECB Monthly Mission
This front-line led publication seeks to inspire and motivate ECB telecommunicators by highlighting employee accomplishments.
The selected stories and content are shared with the intent to disseminate useful information about the Bureau, Memphis Police Department and the 9-1-1 industry as a whole.
Furthermore, we aspire to increase transparency and communication between management and the floor; and improve overall employee morale.
Editor’s
Mayor Young visits Communications
DuringourEasterfamilygathering,ImentionedNational Tele-CommunicationsWeektomyfirstcousin,Mayor PaulYoung.Isharedwithhimtheimportanceofthewe andhowtheMemphisPoliceDepartment’sDispatcher arethe“real”firstresponders.Mostpeopledon’t understandthatinordertoreceivepolice,fire,or ambulanceservicesyoumustfirstspeakwithacalltake ordispatcher.IaskedMayorYoungtocomevisitthe dispatcherswiththehopesofsurprisingthemand boostingthemorale.MayorYoungadvisedmetogetwi hisadministrativeassistantandIdidjustthat Iwasso
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
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
APCOCONFERENCE REFLECTION
ortunity to attend APCO 2024 not only as an attendee ented a Think Tank session titled “What’s the Point? aducah 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
Myexperienceatthisyear'sAPCOinOrlando,FLgavemeaninsightthatincludedseeingthatwe(PSAPs)alloverthe country,evenAnchorage,Alaska(Imetadispatcherfromthatfaraway)arefacingsomeofthesameissues.Burnout, retention,PTSD,andhowtohelpacitizenwithTHEIRlocation(hint,hint:withWhat3words) Thepurposeofusbeing therewastoattendclasses,collaborateandgetsomeideasormaybesolutionsonhowtogetinfrontoforquellsome oftheissues Abroadspectrumofclasseswasoffered Itookadvantageofattendingquiteafewclassesduringthis conferenceandalsogotachancetoseeourownManagerDeranecqueSims"LeaderingOutLoud"(thetitleforher class,onpurpose) Itwasanhonorsittingunderhertutelageforanhourabsorbingleadershipskills Leadershipisnot aboutatitle,butitisanacquiredandappliedskillinanefforttogetagroupofpeopletoaccomplishaparticulargoal.
Eachofushaveleadershipabilitieswejustleadindifferentways
AttheDistinguishedAchieversBreakfast,sponsoredbyL3HARRIS,speakerAnthonyRobles bornwithoutarightleg,full ofperseverance,hardworkandasolidbeliefinself,notonlyledhimtosuccessbutledhimtobecomeunstoppable. Thesesamequalitiesweembodydaily Lookforthemovie,'UNSTOPPABLE',comingsoonbasedonMr Robleslife Denzellwasjustabittoooldtoplayhispartbutwouldhavebeenaveryresemblingmatch!!!!
Th k i f thi l i t it !!!!
I recently had the oppo a great experience to "get away " and immers 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!
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 w closer together. It was nice being able to connect on a m r this experience and will
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
PROUD MOM
PRDHeatherGlissen’sdaughter,Theograduated fromChristianBrothersUniversitythispastMay. InAugust,shemovedtoFloridawhereshewillbe partoftheDisneyCollegeProgram.Theowillbe workingattheWaltDisneyWorldCaribbeanBeach Resort,learninghowtospreadDisneymagic.
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.
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.
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.
NENA 2024: A Week of Learning, Networking & Comraderie
by Manager Jesse McCord, ENP, RPL
Attending the NENA 2024 conference in Orlando, FL, from June 28 to July 3, was an enriching and unforgettable experience. I had the pleasure of being in attendance with a distinguished group of colleagues: Col Burford, ECM Stiger, ECS Boswell, ECS Meriweather, ECS Pender, ECS Morris, ECS Anderson, ECS May, PRD Reeves, PRD Withers, PRD Ollie, PRD Neil, CAD Tech/PRD Coughlin, and ERCO Ringwald. Our journey began early Friday morning at Memphis International Airport, where we gathered for our flight to Orlando. The camaraderie was palpable, and it seemed we were inseparable until our departure from Orlando. This closeness allowed us to bond and get to know each other on a deeper level.
Saturday was packed with valuable sessions. I, ECM Stiger, and ECS Pender attended the CMCP Alumni Seminar from 08:30 to 17:00. The seminar, facilitated by Paul Hicks and Mark Swiderski, featured a range of insightful topics such as "Legal and Liability in the 9-1-1 Center," "Cyber Security Resiliency and Best Practices," "Governmental Affairs," "Maximizing Employee Performance," "Improving Call Transfers with the NENA EPRC," "Using AI to Reduce Administrative Burden and Enhance 9-1-1 Services," and "9-1-1's Ability to Impact Highway Safety." The seminar's diverse lineup of speakers, including NENA employees, private sector consultants, CISA, NHTSA, and legal experts, made for a 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 ra s s
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, d it ill gi th t b Thi t l b l bl t to us here at ECB. ot only improves our more aware. This in with our families? mation is invaluable
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.
WORK SMILES :-)
(lefttoright)SPRDTarrasheaSimpson,PRDJuliaRobinson,ManagerJesse McCord,TrainingCoordinatorAshleyBoswell,PRDAshleyReeves
Thisyear,attheNationalEmergencyNumberAssociation(NENA) Conference,911derWomenInc.acceptednominationsfortheiresteemed 911derWomanoftheYearAward.Theseladieswereallnominated,by ManagerJesseMcCordfortheirexceptionalcontributionsandunwavering commitmenttoourcommunityandourdepartment.ManagerMcCord presentedthemwithhonorablementioncertificatesandaspecialgiftduring Charlieshiftrollcall.Thisisanhonorwelldeserved!
DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT
PRD LINDA HOLLINGSWORTH, RPL
LindaHollingsworthhasjustreached her12thyearofservice.PRD Hollingsworthhasmadesignificant contributionstotheMemphisPolice Department(MPD)sincebecominga PoliceRadioDispatcher(PRD)in2012. Beyondherdutiesindispatch,shehas takenontheroleofaCommunications TrainingOfficer(CTO), demonstratingherdeeppassionfor theemergencycommunicationsfield.
PRDHollingsworth'scommitment extendsintocommunityand educationalprograms,notably includingtheCitizens'Police Academy,whereshehelpsdemystify policeworkforthecommunity,and careerfairs,wheresherepresents theMPDandeducatesattendees aboutthecriticalroleofdispatchers inemergencyresponse.
Hermostremarkableworkperhapsliesinteachinghighschoolstudentsaboutthe 9-1-1industry,guidingyoungmindstounderstandandconsidercareersin emergencycommunications.Throughtheseefforts,PRDHollingsworthnotonly enricheshercolleaguesandtheMPD'soperationsbutalsoplaysavitalrolein fosteringasafer,well-informedcommunityinMemphis.Herdedicationisabeacon ofserviceandeducation,highlightingtheindispensableroleofpoliceradio dispatchersinpublicsafety.
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
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.
Mymostfavoritememoriesarewhenweunitetosupporteachotherandourfamilies duringdifficulttimes,suchasdeathorillness.Itbringsmyheartjoytoseeuswork togetherasafamilyinsteadofshifts.IalsoloveTCW,alltheeating,games,andwearing themedt-shifts.Thesewerereallyfunandenjoyabletimes.
Ihopemycoworkersremembermeasdependable,reliable,helpfulandalwayshavinga snacktoshare.
IknewitwastimetoretirewhenInolongerhadthedesireorpassionforthejobandthat wasn'tsafeformeorofficers.Inolongerwantedtoparticipateinactivities. Thiswas hardformetoacceptbecauseIacceptedthejobbecauseIknewIwouldbeabletohelp citizens.
MyadvicetoothersnearingretirementisGetYourDucksinaRow.Eliminateexcessive spendingandasmuchdebtasyoucanwhileworkingsoyoucanthoroughlyenjoy retirement.
Inretirement,Ifirstplantorest!Nomore12-hourshifts(mandatoryovertime)or7day workweeks.Ihaveafewprojectsplannedaroundthehouse.Iwanttostartgardening andmainlyIamlookingforwardtotraveling.
IammostproudoftherelationshipsImade.Ihavemetsomeincredibly,talentedand hardworkingpeople.
WhenIstarted,Iwasoneoftheoldesttraineesinmyclass,soittookmelongertograsp thejob,thatbeingsaidIwouldliketothankeveryonewhotrainedme,gavemeadvice, andhelpedmeinanywaytobecomeadispatcher.Iwasnotthefirstorbestinmyclass, butImadeit.Afterall,thescripturereadstheraceisnotgiventotheswiftnorthestrong buttheonewhoendures.
KANDACEBOOKER
33 Years of Service!
Kandace Booker started her career as a general clerk in Central Records, then moved into the Property Room and worked as supervisor before she found her way to Communications in 1994. She retired with 33 years of service to the City of Memphis.
thankyou
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, Youhavealwaysbeenmyfriendsinceweworked togetherinCentralRecords.Iwillalwaysremember yoursmile,caringwaysandanimatedpersonalitywhile workingtheradio.Oneofmyfavoritevacationswas ourtriptoParis.Iwishyouhappinessandpeacein thisnextchapteroflife.
CLEAN UP WOMAN
Ihavesomuchloveandrespectfortheseladies!Thisshows thatonanygivenday,weneverknowwherewe'llbeneeded. Werecognizeopportunitiestorepresentwhowegenuinely areinheart.MichelleGaylorandAndreaHeastoncleanedthe entireCommunicationsBureauwalltowall"literally".Thisisa magnificentexampleofon-the-jobministryinprogress.We don'tcomplainaboutwhat'snotbeingdone.Thefactthatit's notwithinour"jobdescription"isirrelevant.Whatwedois becomeawareoftheneedand"JUSTDOIT".
Calmafter theStorm
by PRD Teddrick Boyd
OnApril12,2024,wetragicallylostoneofourown,OfficerJoseph McKinneyinthelineofduty.Inourgrief,MajorLolitaRobinsoninvited AlphaShift’sEmergencyCommunicationsManagerMargaretPhillipsStiger,SupervisorParisAnderson,PRDCassandraBerry,PRDTeddrick Boyd(myself),PRDAndrewBryd,andPRDTMattieMountaintoRaines StationAlphaShift’sRollCalltomeetfor"TheCalmAfterthe Storm."WewerejoinedbyChiefDavis,AssistantChiefDonCrowe, RainesStationColonelCarlosDavis,Major,Lieutenants,andofficers. WeheldagatheringandspokefondwordsofOfficerMcKinneyand attemptedtohealeachotherthroughprayerandcamaraderie.
Thiswasmyfirsttimeworkingonacriticalincidentlikethis,andIwas gratefultohavesomanypeoplenearmetoassistandhelpmakea difficultsituationtolerable.Atthetime,Iwasequallyshocked, devastated,andproudofhowmyfellowofficershandledtheeventin
Col. Davis, SPRD Anderson, PRD Byrd, Chief Davis, PRD Boyd, PRD Berry, PRDT Mountain, Mgr. Stiger, Mjr. Robinson
Welcome Back Xan
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
