ECB Monthly December 2020 : Memphis Police Department's 9-1-1 Magazine

DECEMBER 2020

ECB MONTHLY

Official publication of the MPD Emergency Communications Bureau

FEATURING MEMPHIS 9-1-1 PROFESSIONALS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Christmas Story Contest Winners ECB Mantra Contest Submissions Dispatcher of the Year Series Kickoff Retirement Celebrations and MORE!

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

inspire and motivate ECB telecommunicators by highlighting employee accomplishments.

(ECB) is the primary Public Safety Answering Point

The selected stories and content are

(PSAP) for the City of

shared with the intent to disseminate

Memphis; and the only provider of Law Enforcement

useful information about the Bureau, Memphis Police Department and the 9-1-1 industry as a whole.

dispatch services for the Memphis Police Department.

Furthermore , we aspire to increase transparency and communication

In 2018, the ECB met the national standard by answering 95.4% of our 9-1-1 calls in less than 20 seconds.

michael spencer emergency communications administrator michael w. rallings director of police services

between management and the floor; and improve overall employee morale.

ECB Monthly December 2020

table of contents

Best Wishes to Manager Beverly Wolfe-Davis and Supervisor Michelle Gaylor who are leaving us with 32 and 28 years of service, respectively.

12

04 From the Admistrator's Desk 05 Editor's Notes 06 ECB History Moment Lorna Griggs 07 Training Refresher 08 Employee of the Month: Shelly Burrow

32 26

20

14

12 Covid Chronicles 14 Christmas Story Contest 19

Beyond the Bureau: Felony Response

20 Dispatcher of the Year Series I : Markisha Thomas 26 Retirement Acknowledgement: Beverly Wolfe-Davis.

28

08

Friends of our PSAP: 28 Reverend Gonzales Retirement 32 Acknowledgement: Michelle Gaylor

ECB Monthly Team

Mike Spencer, Chief Administrator Deranecque Rogers, Editor-in- Chief Erica May, Editor Nikkita Pittman, Contributor

DECEMBER

2020 | FROM THE ADMINISTRATOR'S DESK

MIKE'S MINUTE MICHAEL SPENCER

EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS ADMINISTRATOR

Happy Holidays Continued Growth and excitement is on the horizon for 2021.

I know we are all excited that this year is coming to an end. I want to thank each and every one of you for your hard work and dedication. A vaccine is coming and I hope that means a return to normal is in the cards for 2021.

This year will have a lot of changes for the Emergency Communications Bureau. Manager Beverly Wolfe-Davis and Supervisor Michelle Gaylor will be retiring. That means we will have a manager promotion and multiple supervisor promotions coming up very soon. We will be hiring 30+ Dispatchers between now and March. This is an opportunity for growth, new ideas and new energy. If we get fully staffed in 2021 we will have 155 Police Radio Dispatchers (all time record), 9 full-time ERCO’s and a

MICHAEL SPENCER, CMCP

handful of part- time ERCO’s. We will continue to work towards the elimination of mandatory overtime so that

"Congratulations to Beverly and

each of you can have a more balanced work/home life. I

Michelle. Job well done and enjoy

know it has been difficult and I know you are tired. Please

retirement." - Mike Spencer

hang in there and we will do everything we can to get you some help.

Please continue to stay engaged in your profession. Get involved with APCO and NENA. COVID-19 has forced so many conferences to the web and made classes and speakers available to a much broader audience.

Technology is changing fast and we are trying to keep up.

A new(er) program that is gaining some traction is What 3 Words? https://what3words.com/

Congratulations to Beverly and Michelle. They are walking out of the door with 55+ years of experience. That will not go unnoticed and it will be hard if not impossible to replace. I have thoroughly enjoyed working alongside both of them. I have learned a lot working with them. I will miss them a lot but I am proud of them for making it this long and remaining positive and consistent. Both of them have been rocks to those that have worked around them. They have saved tens of thousands of lives over their careers. Job well done and I hope you enjoy your time in retirement.

They divided the world into 3 meter squares and gave

It was awesome to see so many of you in the spirit as the

each square a unique combination of three words. Anyone

Bureau adopted six angels from the Angel Tree Program.

with a smart phone can download the app and at anytime

Thank you Metrica for coordinating such a successful gift

pull it up to see what three words define their location.

drive. I know you had help from several employees that not

Although we haven’t implemented an integration or a

only donated monetarily, but donated time and energy to

solution, it is a great tool for you to know about; if you

bring joy to our fellow citizens. I know that you will be

have someone that is unsure of their location. They may

rewarded many times over for your good deeds. I will leave

be lost in some woods, off the interstate in a creek or just

you all with a wish for a very Merry Christmas and a Happy

not familiar with their surroundings. I encourage you to

New Year. Thanks for spending 2020 with Communications

go check it out. It could help you help a citizen in need.

and let’s move on to 2021!

MANAGER DERANECQUE ROGERS, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

EDITOR'S NOTES Allow your Co-Workers to Inspire You this Season I heard they were giving away a television on Alpha Shift. Wow! I am inspired by the shift members' comradarie and how they consistently raise the bar with their holiday celebration.

Allow your co-workers to inspire you. Don't be a bystander. Get in on the positivity in our PSAP. Kudos to everyone that contributed to the Angel Tree drive. Supervisor Spears, Pat Wright, Antonae Parker and Tedra Sweeten led the charge and an awesome job collecting and shopping for the bureau. Your donations and

I was so inspired, I decided that the Charlie

contributions will surely put huge smiles on the

shift Supervisors and I will host our first

faces of our angels. Fantastic job by all!

Charlie's Angels 12 Days of Christmas this year. Thank you for sharing your blue print with us. As a Bureau, we must embrace ideas that lift spirits, promote positivity and employee engagement in our PSAP. I appreciate floor leaders like, Andrea Heaston, Melanie Jefferson, Tomeca Doty, Monetta Hampton, Linda Hollingsworth and Julia Robinson who are always leading positive initiatives in our workplace. I know there are others; however, I am not able to

Next month will be the sixth issue of ECB Monthly. We would love to commemorate this milestone by having other ECB employees join our team; especially from the other shifts. Joining the team allows you to tell the stories that you believe are worth telling.

Let's continue to make memories this season.

The Christmas story contest will run again next year so you have twelve months to get a good one in.

name everyone. Just know that we see you

This year, we've made it through COVID,

and we appreciate all you do to make

protests, a historic election season and we rose

Communications better.

above it all. I hope you continue to be blessed

Thank you to those who embraced the Christmas story contest. Every entry I read put a smile on my face. A HUGE

and have a joyous holiday season, whether you spend here with your work family or at home with family and friends.

congratulations to James Coughlin for winning

When we work together we can make great

first place.

things happen for ourselves, our families, our

More great news! The deadline to enter the MANTRA contest has been extended to

officers and the citizens of Memphis.

It's always a blessing to be a blessing to others.

January 10. We already have some great submissions and you can view them as you turn the pages.

~Deranecque

DECEMBER 2020 | ISSUE FIVE

ECB HISTORY MOMENT

ACROSS THE BRIDGE

by SPRD Lorna Griggs

** Incident Timeframe: Early 1990's

One of our officers was shot while driving. He informed the dispatcher that he had been shot, provided the vehicle description of the suspects, his location and that he was pursuing the suspects. There was another officer who was responding and asked, “Is the injured officer chasing the suspects?” The dispatcher responded, “CHECK, he is!” The next thing we heard was, “Stop that officer!” He was eventually forced to stop on I40/Danny Thomas heading towards the bridge.

Yes, he did survive his injuries. The entire “radio room” was buzzing with angst, excitement and the desire to capture the suspects responsible. Supervisor Jimmy Wilkins reached out to SPRD Lorna Griggs day shift

get permission to continue the chase onto the bridge heading

supervisor. She has 33 years of

into West Memphis. With excitement, Jimmy yelled, “We can

service to Memphis Police

continue into Arkansas!” The room CHEERED! For dispatchers, to

Communications.

be able to continue a vehicle chase outside of our jurisdiction is a feat in itself and by this time, we had many officers on the bridge. Blue lights could be seen for miles. The suspects were still firing shots while being pursued. All suspects were captured with no injuries to any other officers. When dispatchers are a part of a situation like this one, it gives you a sense of accomplishment, because you played an important role in bringing this serious situation to an end.

TRAINING REFRESHER

VEHICLE PURSUITS V e h icle pursuits a r e a u t h o r i z e d o n l y w h e n a n o f f i c e r h a s probable cau s e t o b e l i e v e t ha t o n e o r m o r e o c c u pants of a f l e e i n g v e h i c l e ha v e c o m m i t t e d a V i o l ent Felony.

After a unit has initiated a pursuit, the dispatcher will: 1. Immediately obtain the following information if not provided by the officer: Unit number of officer requesting authorization to initiate pursuit Location and direction of travel Speed of vehicles involved Description of suspect(s) and suspect vehicle Applicable criminal charge(s) involving the suspect(s) Any other pertinent information, i.e., weapons, hostages, identity of person, etc 2. Notify a precinct commanding officer of at least the rank of Lieutenant within one minute of the pursuit origination.

Once authorization to pursue a vehicle has been given the dispatcher will: 1. Verbally name the primary (police vehicle initiating the pursuit) and secondary (the second police vehicle joining the pursuit behind the primary) units and then advise all other units to stay clear of the pursuit.

EXCEPTION: If an officer in a special purpose vehicle (such as a motorcycle) initiates the pursuit, he or she shall abandon the pursuit when a marked patrol unit joins the pursuit. The officer in the special purpose vehicle shall proceed to the termination point of the pursuit if the suspect is apprehended.

2. Notify the Aviation Unit and advise the officers when the helicopter has joined the pursuit and has the vehicle in sight. (Aviation should be notified on all vehicle pursuits, whether they are being requested or not) 3. Notify a Communications Supervisor by phone and other dispatchers by updating the call type to CHSV 4. Echo locations and directions given by the involved units. If this information is not being given, the dispatcher will INQUIRE to obtain.

5. Check the license number of the vehicle being pursued for stolen and registration (if not done previously) 6. Alert other agencies and precinct dispatchers if approaching their jurisdiction LEAVING JURISDICTION: When it is likely that a pursuit will continue into a neighboring jurisdiction, the primary unit will notify dispatch of the jurisdiction being entered, request assistance from that jurisdiction and update critical information to the dispatcher.

STOP STICKS: Once the equipped officer has received authorization for the deployment of Stop Sticks, they will advise the dispatcher of the exact location where the device will be deployed and the dispatcher will notify all units involved in the pursuit.

BAIL FROM VEHICLE: If the subject(s) bail from the vehicle, have additional units to saturate the area to search and have someone to secure the vehicles of the officer and suspect involved in the foot pursuit.

SUSPECT DISCARDS WEAPON: If during the pursuit the suspect discards a weapon, an officer should be sent to the location where it was discarded to retrieve it. *Sources: MPD Communications Policy and Procedure Manual 6.14/Hot Calls; internal email dated Oct 10, 2018/sender Mgr. D. Rogers

DECEMBER 2020

ISSUE FIVE

SHELLY BURROW DISPATCHER OF THE MONTH FEATURE

"My favorite part of being a dispatcher is knowing the assistance I provide starts the process for citizens to get their issues resolved."

- Shelly B.

How was training for you?

Training was interesting and presented some challenges.

Prior to dispatch, I worked in education as an admissions

Shelly has a strong, admirable work ethic. She is always here and ready for any task. Shelly is respectful of her peers, callers and officers alike.

She gets an A in my book.

-Mgr. D. Rogers

counselor. I was used to listening and then responding. I had to adjust to listening and responding at the same time.

Eventually it came together.

My all-time favorite memory ( at work) is when I learned I was released. I made a few sacrifices during that time and I was so grateful that all of my effort paid off. I was a little older when I started and hadn’t been in a training setting in years. I was excited and proud that I mastered something new and was beginning a new phase in my life.

" I make a conscious effort each day to have a positive attitude, accept whatever task is put before me and to assist the citizens, officers and my coworkers in any way I can." - Shelly Burrow.

PAGE 8

SHELLY BURROW

What advice would you give to a newer employee that seeks to be successful in this role?

What is your most memorable call?

My most memorable call is when I received a call from one of my elderly relatives who was involved with a

Hang in there. Study. Most of all, listen to your trainer.

mental consumer. I remember her

There are several ways to do things and sometimes

being really upset because she knew

you don’t understand why or think that it makes sense.

the young man and he cut himself. She

Being able to adapt will be beneficial in the end. You’ll

was attempting to get him help, but was

be able to choose and incorporate the more

concerned about the blood being on

comfortable methods in your dispatch style once you

her porch because her great-

are released.

grandchildren would be coming home from school soon. Without telling her who I was, I was able to talk to her and

What are some stress relievers you recommend that help you cope with the demands of the job?

got her to calm down. I instructed her to stay inside where she was safe. After I got all of the information, I told her that she could get some bleach and rinse her porch off. Later when we talked about it, she told me that she was so

I completely detach myself from work when I am not

grateful that I was calm and assured

here. I don’t talk about work and I do not watch the

her that we would get the young man

news. I try to get a massage once per month.

help. She even told me that the officers

I ALWAYS have music playing!

were nice enough to go to the store and get her some bleach to clean her porch off.

What are you looking forward to most in the future?

I am looking forward to growing and learning. I want to enlarge my footprint by volunteering more and continuing to set goals for myself that make me better. I look forward to seeing the progression of the City of Memphis. We have been on the cusp of being GREAT and turning that corner for a long time. I want to see it finally happen.

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

PAGE 9

MANTRA CONTEST SUBMISSION #1

BE A GIVER Gather Information Vital to Emergency Response

#IAmAGiver

MANTRA CONTEST SUBMISSION #2

AMPED UP I am an MPD dispatcher. I am essential.

I do great things for my City.

I Answer the call I Make the decision I Provide exceptional service I Exceed expectations I Deliver and respond with a Universal understanding of Priority.

#WeAreAmpedUP

DECEMBER 2020 | ISSUE FIVE

CHECKING IN HOW IS SCHOOL GOING ?

OUR NEW NORMAL: COVID CHRONICLES

PRD ASHLEY REEVES With most schools deciding on virtual learning this year, I was concerned my son's school announced they would proceed with " in-person" classes. My initial thought was how will the teachers be able to keep a group of 3-4 year-old children six feet apart. With constant communication and assurance from the staff at the school, I was relieved that they were making sure everyone would be safe. So far, everything has been effective and I am pleased with how the school year is going thus far.

KIDS

Ashley Reeves' 4 year old son Jeremiah, participates in the mock election at Presbyterian Day School.

Milton Williamson's children are excited about the first day of school. 11 year old Alexander "Rocco" attends Bon Lin Middle and 8 year old Channing Grace attends Rivercrest Elementary

ERCO MILTON WILLIAMSON When the school year began we had to think long and hard about the process. There was a lot of fear and uncertainty about going back to school in a pandemic. Bartlett City Schools gave us options and initially we didn't understand how it would work. We thought it was up to us to follow the curriculum and actually teach the kids. Our kids did not want that !!!! They told us they wanted to try going back to class for the 1st 9 weeks and then we'd make a determination from there. My wife and I talked it over, and decided to try it. The kids have enjoyed going back so far and the updates we get from the school constantly, ( plus the fact Channing's teacher is our neighbor) does help to ease our fears. Fortunately, no outbreaks have occurred at my children's schools. And no more than two or three students at other schools have been identified as having COVID. We are still praying and staying vigilant.

DEC.

2020

|ISSUE

FIVE

2020 Christmas Story Contest The Santa Broadcast is a HIT! We appreciate everyone that submitted a story.

Congratulations to the winners: James Coughlin, Victoria Billingsley, and Ashley Reeves.

Santa Broadcast CAD TECH James Coughlin I loved putting out the Santa broadcast, though it wasn’t always that way. It quickly became apparent to me how sacred and loved a tradition this was for the officers and the families they let gather around the radio to hear it. My first few years I was asked, I was petrified of being on the air for that long, or messing it up. I don’t remember what changed within me, but there was a year I was on the radio when it came time, and very few other Charlie Shifters wanted to put it out. I swallowed my fear and volunteered, and I discovered that it could be fun. I found a set of jingle bells and started emphasizing the “HO HO HOs” and other descriptive remarks. Later on I was tagged on Facebook; an officer had recorded my most jolly transmission and uploaded it to YouTube, where it continued to make the rounds for years after every Christmas, and officers would routinely text to ask at what time I was putting my broadcast out and on what station.

Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest Katie Lipsey One year we had an Ugly Christmas Sweater contest. It took me a long time to glue all those green smelly pine deodorizers on my MPD sweater. Anyway, I could not believe I did not win. I think I was robbed.

Double Memory Ashley Reeves One of my favorite Christmas memories was when I was working Mt. Moriah and I put out the Santa broadcast. It was my first year doing it and I was nervous. Officer White keyed up and asked me for the description of the subject again. ( Santa Claus) Hearing him say that brought a smile to my face and took away the nervousness I felt.

Another Christmas memory was when we had our Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest. I just knew I had it in the bag with the bells and Christmas garland on my sweater.

Nope, I came up short. Although I didn’t get the win,I had fun participating. It was definitely a morale booster.

DEC.

2020

|

CHRISTMAS

MEMORY

CONTEST

Great Gifts, Greater Giver Victoria Billingsley I was having the worst holiday ever due to not being with my family and friends. I received calls from people that were experiencing unfortunate situations with their families and it made me feel even worse. Morale was down in communications and a spirit of sadness seemed to hover. When the Supervisors passed out the Santa Broadcast that we read over the air to the officers and their loved ones, both young and old, a bit of happiness peaked through like a sun hidden by clouds. Once the carols and giggles were over the awkward silence returned and paced the floor.While sitting at the service desk even the Merry Christmas greetings were a reminder of the fun being missed with family. Suddenly I heard the sound of laughter and joy piercing through as a body possessed angel floated ECB's floor.

She began passing items out to every employee starting with the dispatcher positions. I answered my call and attempted to peak through the cracks between the computer screens only to not see anyone, but hear "Wow!" and "Thank You!" being shouted.

After processing my call I looked up and a goodie bag was being handed to me. The gift giver announced herself as Reverend Gonzalez. She thanked each and every employee for our service and everything we do. I felt her appreciation and thought to myself that anyone who comes here on a holiday and is not getting paid is a special person. Only to realize once I opened my bag how special we, in Communications, are to her. In the bag was a bluetooth speaker, a monetary token, and Bible verses for each week in the year, which turned out to be much needed given the year we've had.

Many Christmas frowns were gone. I still missed family, but I realized that people value what we do and we are truly appreciated. Our sacrifice does not go in vain and we make differences in every conversation we have and every officer we send. We pushed through the rest of the night with smiles and in constant disbelief that we were so blessed on Christmas Eve night. The gesture of kindness definitely lightened the load and gave a reason to enjoy our Emergency Communication's holiday season.

DEC.

2020

|

CHRISTMAS

MEMORY

CONTEST

Santa Broadcast #2 Josh Edwards My favorite Christmas memory at work was during my first year. I was here not even out of training yet and everyone wanted me to do the Santa announcement on their radio because of how much emphasis I put on the announcement. Someone even recorded me doing it. I had fun and everyone had a good laugh as Santa went off into the night belting out. Ho Ho Ho !

HONORABLE MENTION

Hey, I Know this Cake Tramaine Vornes

My best Christmas memory actually was my first Christmas here. I had to work Alpha shift with Clifton Catron as my trainer. It was going fairly well and quiet. There were paper games being played and morale was genuinely jolly.

However, I was particularly missing my grandmother and her baked goods for the holidays. I had spent many years working towards becoming an employee of the City of Memphis Police Department with my grandmother having been my biggest supporter and advocate for pursuing such a position. Supervisor Rosalind Phillips worked Alpha shift and she just happened to bring a cake, not just any cake ---------but one that my grandmother would make that I was quite fond of. While I know everyone makes cakes of many the sort, it was just a little bit of my own Christmas miracle that she had made one that was uncannily similar to one my grandmother would make. #BestChristmasAtWorkEver

Contest Judges Raymond Chiozza, Director Shelby County 911 District Domonique Curry, Chief of Staff Orleans Parish Communication District Michael Rallings, Director of Police Services Memphis Police Department Michael Spencer, Emergency Communications Administrator Memphis Police Emergency Communications Bureau "Thank you again for the honor of judging the contest for your center. Activities that build morale and bring a sense of unity are so vital in our line of work. Please thank each of the participants for submitting an entry. I appreciate these dispatchers for playing along." - Domonique Curry, CPE

MANTRA CONTEST SUBMISSION #3

We are the PRDs Proud & Professional Reliable & Responsible Dedicated Dispatchers

#ProudMPDDispatcher

DECEMBER 2020 | ISSUE FIVE

BEYOND THE BUREAU FELONY RESPONSE

SERGEANT ANDREA WILLIAMS FELONY RESPONSE Felony Response officers answer all felony calls throughout the city of Memphis from midnight until 8AM.

1639/WILLIAMS 19 years with MPD 2 years in Felony Response Previously assigned to Airways Station/A799 Married with two children

Policing with Faith Even though it's not the most popular profession right now, I love my job and

MEMORABLE CALL

what I do. What I love best about my job is that I get to encourage people when they are in their lowest

A 13 year old boy was playing with a gun and accidently shot

moments. When I come in contact with

and killed his 11 year old brother. His 26 year old cousin

career criminals or people who have

brought the gun into the home and allowed both of the

been arrested multiple times, I tell

children to play with it. When I approached the 13 year old, he had his head down. There was blood and brain spatter on his clothing. I talked to him and told him that this was not his fault. I didn't want him to let this burden him for the rest of his life. I reiterated over and over that it was not his fault and that in this instance he was failed by the adults in his life.

them it's never too late to turn their life around. It doesn't matter what you've done. They are surprised when I share the joy of the Lord with them and I tend to have a captive audienceliterally.

DISPATCHER OF THE YEAR SERIES

PRD MARKISHA THOMAS 2018 Communications Officer of the Year

"It feels good to be in a position to help people.

We are able to intervene in unfortunate situations. The ending may not always be ideal, but we're able to make the outcome better than it would have been otherwise. And sometimes we do get that happy ending."-MT

DISPATCHER OF THE YEAR SERIES : MARKISHA THOMAS

DISPATCH VETERAN, NOT A STRANGER TO ACCOLADES When PRD Markisha Thomas was informed that she had been chosen as Dispatcher of the Year, she was grateful, but she was also surprised. "Dispatcher of the Year" normally goes to someone who works a traumatic incident. I was told that I was chosen because I am a hardworking and a dependable employee," stated Thomas. In the past she has been awarded Dispatcher of the Month and accolades from lieutenants for her contributions in field incidents. PRD Thomas has been with the department since 2000. When asked what she is most passionate about, she responded " making it to 25 years and experiencing retirement." PRD Thomas is married with one son and two stepchildren. She enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.

MEMORABLE 9-1-1 CALL The call came from a male child that I originally believed was playing on the phone. He was whispering saying that he was in chains. My first mind was to tell him to "STOP PLAYING," but something told me to just keep talking and pay attention to the background. He kept whispering and I kept asking questions. Then I heard more children in the background. One was a female juvenile telling him to hang up the phone because they were going to be in trouble. I asked to speak to her and I began questioning her. As we spoke she got scared. I was able to get her to tell me what was going on. She told me that her parents had him chained up. Once the police arrived, they discovered that this was a foster home. The parents really did have him chained up and had been neglecting him (not feeding).

DISPATCHER OF THE YEAR SERIES : MARKISHA THOMAS

20 YEAR CAREER WITH MPD My advice to new dispatchers that want to experience longevity in this career is to KEEP WORK AT WORK AND HOME AT HOME.

FUN FACTS ABOUT MARKISHA She describes dispatch training as " a breeze" and was one of the first in her class to become released.

Her travel buddies are Margaret Stiger and Regina Winfrey.

Her son is a sophomore and basketball player at Bradley University.

MINI SWOT ANALYSIS

by M. Thomas A positive change since I've been here is the employee recognition program. We haven't always had Dispatcher of the Month and Year recognized on the scale that we do now. Our new building is definitely an upgrade and we have a better physical working environment. Some changes I would like to see is better transparency when it comes to opportunities for advancement. For instance, it seems like the same employees are picked to take classes and travel to conferences.

I think we have room for improvement when it comes to showing empathy for employees. This bureau is comprised of mostly female employees; many of whom are mothers and may have an emergency every now and then with their families.

We need more policies in place to assure that the employees are allowed to take time to handle such situations.

9-1-1 OFFSPRING ANTONIO THOMAS What inspires me the Most is my SON. He inspires me to keep going day to day and makes me want to do and be a better person so that I will be around longer to be able to witness all that God has in store for him.- Markisha

MANTRA CONTEST SUBMISSION #4

RESILIENCE MPD Dispatchers show Resilience

Reassuring Empathetic Substantial Illuminating Liable Intense Engaging Notable Consistent Extraordinary

#ShowResilience

MANTRA CONTEST SUBMISSION #5

WE PICK UP FOR MEMPHIS YOU CALL 9-1-1, WE PICK UP AND WE GET THE POLICE TO PULL UP!

P I C K

Prompt and Professional with Integrity Courteous Knowledgeable

#WePickupforMemphis Our mission is to provide exemplary service to those who call and those we send.

DECEMBER 2020 | ISSUE FIVE

BEVERLY WOLFE- DAVIS Beverly Wolfe-Davis is much more than a manager in the 9-1-1 Bureau. With 32 years of service and being a long-time coordinator of the training program, she is an MPD Communications Leadership Legend.

FAIR, CONSISTENT KNOWLEDGEABLE As described by her colleagues

Beverly, you were the most consistent Supervisor I ever met. You were firm in your decisions and, oftentimes, wouldn’t be told different. You enriched the bureau with your knowledge, integrity, and quality leadership. You made sure everyone did the right thing at the right time.

You are an inspiration. I am appreciative of your spirit and all the advice you gave. I consider it a privilege to have worked under your supervision and along side you as a colleague. I am honored to know you. Be well, Bev 'The Wolf" Davis. I wish you many days filled with Relaxation, Love and Happiness.

- MGR Deranecque Rogers

When I was a rookie, Beverly was the CTS on Bravo shift. She would stay on us about everything, but it was always out of love for her job. I remember one time she called me over to the relief position and questioned me about a call I had taken. I had only been released as a call-taker for about 2 weeks, and initially thought she called me over to scrutinize my call type selection. After talking to her, she was just making sure that I was confident about my decision.

That interaction taught me two things that I have kept with me my entire career. First, knowledge breeds confidence, and second, don’t immediately assume someone is going to criticize you just because they ask you a question. I have been very fortunate to work with Beverly at many different levels. She has been my CTS, my direct Supervisor, my peer when I was promoted to Supervisor, my employee when I was promoted to Manager, and finally my peer again when she was promoted to Manager. Beverly has always been fair and consistent with everyone and has brought a level of professionalism to every position she held. She will end her career with nearly 33 years of service to the Bureau. She will leave behind a legacy that will be difficult to replicate and I will miss working with her every day. I am proud to call her a trusted friend and wish her the very best.

- MGR Sean Lovejoy

DECEMBER 2020 | ISSUE FIVE

Let's talk about SPRD "Get on my every nerve" B.A.W.D. who I would not trade for ANYTHING. She has been such an inspiration to me since I've worked as a Police Radio Dispatcher. She's always kept me on top of the game from PRDT, PRD, CTO, CTS and for this I am grateful. Thank you for the career advancement opportunities you presented me with, even when you knew I was not computer savvy. You would have to walk me through each step. đ&#x;˜‰ In case I didn't say it enough "Thank you, Bev" for being the awesome individual that you are. My prayer is that you continue to enjoy life abundantly as you have certainly paid your dues to the Memphis Police Emergency Communications Bureau.

-PRD Julia Robinson

Aunt Bevvy was always changing my break time and catching me on my cell phone, asking me "What are you doing?" in that special Beverly way. I imitate that voice now. (Smile) Thank you for your years of service and always being firm but fair. You have shown me a lot, offered guidance, believed in me when I wasn't most certain, and supported me in some difficult times. You have been an example of sisterhood. I will miss you.

Enjoy your retirement!

SPRD Karonda Kirkwood

DECEMBER 2020 | HOLIDAY KINDNESS

FRIENDS OF OUR PSAP REVEREND AUDREY GONZALEZ

A Real Earth Angel

BY MANAGER DERANECQUE ROGERS For a few years now, the ECB Charlie shift has been visited by an earthly angel bearing gifts, prayers, and a smile. Reverend Audrey Gonzalez puts a smile on our faces each and every time she visits; however, Christmas is always more joyous.

Reverend Gonzalez is truly a blessing to the Memphis Police Department. She not only offers prayers, gifts, and comfort to us, but to the men and women in the field. She has unofficially adopted the North Main Station and the ECB Charlie shift. We are not the only ones. She also spends most of her time working with the foster children. In October 2011, Juvenile Court inaugurated the Rev. Audrey Taylor Gonzalez Foster Care Review Center.

Last year Reverend Gonzalez took time out of her busy schedule to visit the Charlie shift along with Ms. Veronica Sally-Garner, the North Main Station Neighborhood Watch Coordinator. In addition to other thoughtful gifts, we were each presented with a 2020 Police Prayer Book with prayers specifically written from her heart for us.

As I reflect on her prayer book, I have a sentiment to share: Whether you are a believer or not, I implore you to love yourself and be thankful for who you are. We are all unique individuals. We think differently. We respond and react differently.

We look different. Nonetheless, the one thing that

The following is an excerpt that has been taken from the prologue of the prayer book. If you would like to read it, I will gladly share mine.

"All of us, the best, the worst, the faithful, the unfaithful, the

is not different; is that we are all human beings

giver, the taker, the straight,

living on the same earth breathing the same air.

the crooked, the rich or the

We should always be kind to one another.

poor, the responder, the

We’ve come a long way. We have endured a great number of things in 2020, not all of them good.

Yet, we are blessed beyond measure.

criminal, the healthy, the mentally ill, the homeless, the prostitute. ALL are children of God. He created each one of us."

Be grateful for it all. Be grateful for being you.

PSAP PICS CHRISTMAS DAY 2019 MPD'S EARTH ANGEL Reverend Audrey Gonzalez

BEST DRESSED PRD Michael Mann in his festive suit. He's showing off his socks.

"You've got to coordinate."

An angel and a villain all in the same day! But even The Grinch could not take our smiles away. ** Manager Rogers' daughter, Deronai, as The Grinch.

DECEMBER 2020 | ISSUE FIVE

SPRD MICHELLE GAYLOR Supervisor Gaylor began her career with the City of Memphis in 1992 and will retire in December 2020 with 28 years of service.

Congratulations on your retirement.

It's a joyous time indeed.

Say goodbye to the everyday hustle and bustle, And enjoy the slower speed.

- Julie Herbert

WELL WISHES FROM THE BUREAU We Will Miss You This year we say goodbye to one of our own, Michelle Gaylor. She will be retiring after 28 years. Michelle is hard working and fair. She is always willing to help out when needed and does so without complaining. She is always upbeat and encourages people to be their best healthy self. She has also always been willing to be our very own personal maid when she got fed up with the kitchen being dirty. Michelle will be greatly missed.

- PRD Katie Lipsey SPRD Gaylor, you used to be my SWAP buddy. Thank you for your years of service.

On a more personal note, thank you for always being kind to me and helping me along the way. I will miss you Shelly G! I pray God's best for whatever you opt to do next in life.

- SPRD Karonda Kirkwood Michelle, I am going to miss my Voice Twin and Word Girl! I will miss sharing adventure stories about our children. Your cleanliness (OCD) and busyness will most certainly be missed. Working with you was always easy. You crossed my t's and dotted my I's when necessary. It has been great sharing, growing, and working with you, Chelly G! I will miss you!

P.S. Once I get that mile in under 9 minutes, you are the first person I will call.

Keep On Running!

- MGR Deranecque Rogers

Michelle Gaylor & Katie Lipsey

CELEBRATING RETIREMENT: SPRD MICHELLE GAYLOR

When I was first hired, Michelle went out of her way to make sure my entire class of trainees felt welcomed. She was always friendly and tried to make us feel like part of the team. When I got promoted to Supervisor in 2011, she was the first one to call and congratulate me. When she was promoted a year and half later in 2013, I quickly returned the favor.

Normally, Supervisors would only spend about a year on a shift before being rotated, but Michelle, Que, and I ended up on Charlie Shift together for almost 3 years. We had so much fun during that time and I can honestly say those have been the best years so far of my career, full of laughter and memories. Michelle has given 28 years to this Department and has always been an advocate for officer safety. The love for her job shows, and she has always had the best interests at heart for the people assigned under her. She is an extremely hard worker and has become one of my closest friends. She will certainly be missed.

- MGR Sean Lovejoy

In 2016, Supervisor Gaylor won FIRST place in the Friends of 9-1-1 charity Race.

MANTRA CONTEST SUBMISSION #6

STAY THE COURSE We are not deterred by the challenges of our profession.

Courageous Outstanding Unifed in our purpose as telecommunicators Unified Respect for our team, families, citizens and Respect officers Service Serve with pride, proficiency and accountability Expect Excellence in everything we do

#StaytheCourse

MANTRA CONTEST SUBMISSION #7

LIVE FOR THE CITY L

Lautitious with our actions and cooperation within the department

I

Innovative in technology and policies to better serve our community

V

Versatile with tools, thought, and follow through

E

Efficient in our actions with continued education to better ourselves for the city

#LiveForTheCity

ALPHA SHIFT DECEMBER FESTIVITIES

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GAME: DIRTY LET'S MAKE A DEAL FOOD: PIZZA & SALAD

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GAME: TRIVIA NIGHT; LYRICS & PUZZLES FOOD: TACO NIGHT

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GAME: WHO'S LINE IS IT & PUZZLES FOOD: COLD SUBS & DRINKS

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GAME: PAINT WITH A TWIST (CALLTAKER SIDE) TV RAFFLE FOOD: POTATO BAR

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GIFT EXCHANGE & PUZZLES FOOD: PROVIDED BY ALPHA SHIFT SUPERVISORS

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9 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS HOSTED BY PRD ANDREA HEASTON featuring Christmas Bingo, Trivia and Other Original Games

DEC 10 TV RAFFLE !

SAMTSIRHC FO SYAD 21

CHARLIE'S ANGELS 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Sponsored by the Manager & Shift Supervisors THE GIFT EXCHANGE 11 by Linda Hollingsworth

DECORATE YOUR TREE

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design your own tree with items provided

D'S HOR D'OEUVRES & DESSERTS 15 by Manager Rogers

THE GRINCH COLORING CONTEST & TRIVIA

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NAUGHTY OR NICE AWARDS

17 have you been good this year?

DINNER W/SANTA'S SUPERVISORS

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HOLIDAY JEOPARDY

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BUREAU BINGO

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CHRISTMAS SWEETS & TREATS

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HOT CHOCOLATE, MARSHMALLOWS, & CANDY CANES

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UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER CONTEST

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A F E W F A V O R I T E T H I N G S 'O R P E O P L E '

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A CHRISTMAS DAY SURPRISE