Memphis 9-1-1 Magazine | March 2024

Memphis 9-1-1 Magazine March 2024 Memphis leaders advocate on Capitol Hill at 9-1-1 Goes to Washington

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 publication seeks to inspire and

The MPD Emergency

motivate ECB telecommunicators by

Communications Bureau

highlighting employee accomplishments.

(ECB) is the primary Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) for the City of Memphis; and the only provider of Law Enforcement

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.

dispatch services for the Memphis Police Department.

Furthermore, we aspire to increase transparency and communication

We consistently strive to meet the call answer time standard of answering 90 percent of all 9-1-1 calls within 15 seconds. colonel tracy burford emergency communications commander cerelyn davis chief of police, memphis police department

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

MARCH 2024

06

ISSUE TWENTY-FIVE

On the Cover: Page 24

2024 SNOW STORM RECAP Page 9

12

IN THIS ISSUE 2023 SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR Administrative Supervisor Hazel Merriweather takes the top honor. Page 4

Community Service Page 6

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Manager McCord completes the Emergence Program. Learn more about Homeland Security and see if this program is

MEMPHIS 9-1-1 MAGAZINE

right for you. Page 16

2023 DISPATCHER OF THE YEAR Learn more about Dispatcher Andrea Neil, senior trainer,

Deranecque Sims, Editor-in-Chief Erica May, Editor Linda Hollingsworth, Contributor

union steward and event coordinator. Page 8

Do you know these little monsters on page 23?

SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR

SPRD HAZEL MERIWEATHER What are you most proud of in your career?

The thing I am most proud of to this day out of my 15 ½ years of service with this bureau would have to be when I was asked to participate and be a part of the 50th MLK Commemoration. I was able to join them in the Command Post and be in the midst of all of the events. This day was much more than I expected and because MLK is someone I would have loved to talk with or interview, this will have to suffice.

What are some areas of focus you think we can improve on as a Bureau overall?

SPRD Hazel Meriweather has dedicated over 15 years to the Emergency Communications Bureau. Her promotion to Supervisor in 2019 marked a significant milestone in her career. In her role as the Bravo shift Admin Supervisor, she oversees all aspects related to UKG, guaranteeing accurate recording and tracking of the shift’s time and attendance. She maintains a positive attitude and shares her daily “nugget” to get the shift started. She believes that “everything is done or comes together because of a Team!”

One area of focus that I feel this bureau can improve upon would have to be that everything is done across the board, no matter who the person is, what shift they work or who they know. Another area of focus would be communication. Everyone should receive the same relayed information and not through passing or from another source. Communication is key!

What are you looking forward to most in the future?

What I look forward to, in the future, is continuing to excel in all tings 9-1-1. I want to strengthen my knowledge and experience so that I can continue to serve the citizens of Memphis in whatever capacity I find myself.

What is your leadership style?

One thing I am looking forward to most in the future would be continuing to excel in all things 911.

I want to strengthen my knowledge and experience so that I can continue to serve the citizens of Memphis in whatever capacity I end up in.

My leadership style is more laid back and hands off. I allow my people to do what they came to do because I am confident that they are more than capable to do their jobs. At times, I must be more assertive based on the circumstances. However, it is always done with love and care.

APRIL 14-20, 2024 A WEEK OF FUN, GOOD FOOD, GAMES & PRIZES, AND JUBILANT CELEBRATION Every year during the second week of April, the telecommunications personnel in the public safety community are honored. We encourage all of you to celebrate and honor yourselves.

This is a week for us by us!!

Enjoy and have fun!

The Season of Giving

by Jameta Young Over the holiday season, I asked my coworkers to consider giving back to those that are less fortunate. Afterall, it was the season of giving. Coming from a family that is BIG on service and the community, I set a personal goal for this service project. I was familiar with Westy’s annual Thanksgiving event, so I reached out to the staff and owner Mr. Jake Schorr. I told them that I wanted to bless the event by donating items.

Over a four-week period, we collected hats, scarfs, and gloves for men, women, and children in need. I recall PRD Lawana Stamps asking me if I had a goal. I told her I did but I was scared to say what it was because I didn’t want to fall short. Well, if you really know how we roll in the Emergency Communications Bureau, you shouldn’t be surprised to know that we exceeded my personal goal well over 100 items! I was so excited to deliver the items. When the staff came out to assist, they were at a loss for words and truly grateful. I was able to meet and talk with Mr. Jake for a few minutes. I asked him was there anything else needed. He said, “during this time of year, the homeless community is always in need of socks and blankets.” From that request, came the 2nd project of the season. It is now close to the Christmas season and yes, I asked the ECB to consider helping with this. We collected over 100 pairs of socks and 55 blankets! To say these socks and blankets were of great quality, is an understatement.

We had socks for men, women, and children. Again, as we unloaded my vehicle, his staff was overwhelmed! One of the ladies kept saying, “thank you", "thank you” every time we pulled out another packed box. I left the restaurant with a warm, full heart of joy knowing that we helped someone that we will probably never meet. I would like to give a special thanks to Lawana, Monetta, Shelly, Nzinga, Linda, Jenny and Cyia for going above and beyond in their giving. We are currently working on our next project for the spring which is collecting peanut butter. I’m looking forward to more participation as this item is one that the food bank and MIFA are always in need of.

Always given and received with a smile.

Donation! Donation!

2023 DISPATCHER OF THE YEAR

PRD ANDREA NEIL, ENP How long have you been working in Communications?

About 8 and ½ years (if you don't count my "hiatus" LOL) How did you feel when you heard you were named Dispatcher of the Year?

I was truly shocked when it was announced in roll call. I am extremely honored. It made me reflect on how this is a full circle moment for me from where I started (#IYKYK) and how far I've come.

What are some of your memorable work moments this year?

You coordinate a lot of activities on your shift and in the Bureau. What are some of the favorite activities you put on?

I enjoy training and teaching PRDT's the job. So I was definitely excited that I was selected as a CTS. I also appreciated the in-service we had with Sean and my peers. Lastly, I will forever appreciate all of the fun things the shifts put together throughout the year such as NTW week, Christmas festivities, and birthday club.

My #1 would have to be Friends and Family Day. I have never thrown such an event before so I was incredibly nervous. Several co-workers assisted offering ideas, donating items or their time. But to see all the moving parts come together and be able to witness so many people smiling, dancing, and playing made it all truly worth it. My second favorite was our Ugly Christmas Sweater party. We tried to do it #AlphaStyle. With the help of Lawanna and Tasha in the kitchen, I think it turned into a success.

Who inspires you at work?

All the true first responders. I believe we are all superheroes.

We save lives everyday when we pick up the phone and dispatch, as well as try to balance a mountain of responsibilities outside of work such as family, school, health, and loss. I can look to my left or right any given day and find inspiration in my coworkers.

How would you describe your 2023 overall ?

This has been the most "normal" year for me in my tenure. I credit the bid to Bravo which allowed me to spend the most time with my kids (I still love you Alpha!). It's also been my busiest year as I have tried to become more involved with the bureau.

What are you looking to most in the future?

I am ready to accept new challenges as well as further my education within the field. I am currently studying to be ENP certified. I am also excited to see how the bureau evolves within the next few years.

“Personally, I'm proud of how I've grown as a woman and as a mother. Professionally, I'm proud of being a part of something bigger than myself.”

What do you like best about your job?

It never gets old being the first line of service for people who are in need; it's still a gratifying (yet stressful) feeling. I also enjoy the pace of the job, particularly on the dispatch side while working radios such as Mt. Moriah and Crump. Lastly, I appreciate the relationships that I've built with my coworkers. As we are often with each other more than our own family, I value having these shoulders to lean on and ears to confide in.

If you have any questions after reading Mgr. McCord‘s article, visit https://www.chds.us/c/academic-programs/emergence/ or see Mgr. McCord or SPRD Erica May who is a graduate of the Emergence 2201 Cohort.

“It was a memorable and worthwhile experience and I would definitely recommend 10/10 to anyone considering applying.“ ~ SPRD May

Industry Certifications What is the ENP Certification?

Certification is a tool of a professional association to establish the benchmarks of performance that will signify a broad-based competence in the professional field.

By successfully completing your certification, you will: Demonstrate a mastery of the comprehensive knowledge base required for emergency number program management.

Help to raise industry standards and increase the respect and prestige of those involved in 9-1-1.

Confirm your commitment to the 9-1-1 profession by showing yourself to be a leader in public safety and pledging yourself to stay aware of current issues and developments in the field.

Visit https://www.nena.org/page/ENP_Certification

Congratulations to PRD Andrea Neal.

She received her ENP certification!

REGISTERED PUBLIC-SAFETY LEADER (RPL) PROGRAM APCO International’s Registered Public-Safety Leader (RPL) Program is designed for individuals interested in developing a solid foundation of management and supervisory skills necessary for successful PSAP operations.

During the RPL Program, you will learn to: Manage organizations and change Communicate with confidence and clarity Develop your talent pool Build connections and consensus Enhance team performance Make a difference within our association and our industry Apply the skills sets learned for the betterment of our association and our industry

Visit https://www.apcointl.org/training/leadership-programs/ See Manager Lovejoy if you are interested in obtaining either of the above incentivized certifications.

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Once again, officers of the MPD Motors Unit were ready. We call them “The Snow Angels” and they were activated to help those of us that requested help getting back and forth to work. They ensured a safe and on-time arrival for ECB personnel.

Manager Lovejoy also assisted with the pickups.

Mark them safe!

P.R.E.P.A.R.E.D.

Officer Marks gets a selfie while he waits on his next take home crew.

“Gotta’ shovel all this snow!”

Major Kellum clears the path. No slip and falls on his watch.

Manager Sims and Sgt. Bishop stop and smile just because.

GRATITUDE Communications came together and provided tokens of appreciation for our Snow Angels. Small thanks for getting us to and from work.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Naval Postgraduate School Center For Homeland Defense and Security Emergence Program June 29, 2023 – January 19, 2024 ECM Jesse McCord RPL, ENP

Introduction The Emergence Program offered by the Naval Postgraduate School's Center for Homeland Defense and Security (CHDS) is an innovative educational initiative aimed at equipping leaders with comprehensive insights into complex homeland security challenges. Spanning over seven months, the program serves as a melting pot for professionals across various governmental agencies to collaborate and broaden their understanding of homeland security.

Diverse Representation The 2023-2024 cohort showcased an impressive array of participants from high-profile federal and state agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the State Department, the U.S. Secret Service, Border Patrol, Washington D.C. Metro Police, New York State Transit Police, New York City Police, Louisiana National Guard, DHS Counterterrorism, Cococino County Emergency Management, Maryland Emergency Management, California Highway Patrol, and the U.S. Coast Guard. This diverse representation fostered a rich exchange of perspectives and experiences, enhancing the learning environment.

Curriculum and Topics The program's curriculum was meticulously designed to cover a wide range of critical topics relevant to homeland security: · Critical Thinking: Emphasizing analytical skills essential for navigating complex security challenges. · Climate Change: Addressing the impacts of environmental changes on national security. · Health Security: Exploring strategies to strengthen responses to health crises and pandemics. · Artificial Intelligence and Biotechnology: Delving into the advancements and implications of these rapidly evolving fields. · Force Multipliers: Understanding tools and strategies that amplify security efforts. · Cybersecurity Trends: Keeping pace with the evolving landscape of digital threats. · Extremism & Radicalization: Analyzing the roots and prevention of radical ideologies.

These are just a few of the over 40 topics covered in the 7 months by over 25 instructors brought in from all over the United States. The course load was heavy but extremely relevant to the topics that were being discussed.

Practical Applications A key strength of the program was its focus on practical applicability across all levels of government.

Discussions and case studies were tailored to ensure that the insights gained were not only theoretical but also directly translatable to real-world scenarios. This approach enabled participants to apply their learning in their respective roles, enhancing the collective capacity to address homeland security challenges.

Impact on Leadership For many attendees, including myself, the Emergence Program was transformative. It not only broadened our understanding of homeland security issues but also refined our leadership skills. The exposure to a multitude of perspectives and the in-depth exploration of various topics made us better equipped to lead and make informed decisions in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. In addition to this professional exposure, the program also fostered friendships and promoted future collaboration between homeland security professionals.

Collaboration I was lucky enough to be able to be present during the intersecting schedules of my Emergence program, CHDS Executive Leaders Program, and the CHDS Masters’ Program. Over 100 Homeland Security professionals were present, and their presence was leveraged to conduct joint sessions and one-on-one breakout sessions for discussion and collaboration. This was the highlight of the entire program as it exposed everyone to multiple disciplines and levels of leadership. Both the Executive Leaders and Master’s Degree Programs were attended by homeland security and private sector leaders continuing their education in the latter half of their careers. Their knowledge, expertise, and experience were bountiful founts of knowledge from which to expand my knowledge.

Conclusion The CHDS Emergence Program stands as a testament to the importance of interdisciplinary learning and collaboration in the realm of homeland security. By bringing together a diverse group of professionals and immersing them in a comprehensive curriculum, the program fosters a generation of leaders who are more knowledgeable, adaptable, and prepared to tackle the security challenges of today and tomorrow. As a proud alumnus, I can attest to the program's effectiveness in enhancing leadership capabilities and providing invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of homeland defense and security.

PRD LaQuange Watkins decorates the hall!

love and joy IT’S A LOOK OF INTENSITY; HOWEVER, THE OUTCOME IS A SMILE AT THE BEAUTIFULLY DECORATED TREE FOR ECB!

Bravo Goes Purple for Women’s History Month Each day during rollcall, a shift member shared a women’s history fact with the group. sure Not ing ’s go what re... e on h

Charlie Shift too!

TRUNK OR TREAT 2023

WHO DO THEY BELONG TO?

9-1-1 Goes to Washington (#NENAGTW) brings hundreds of our fellow 9-1-1 professionals together with government leaders in our nation's capital to address today's most pressing 9-1-1 and emergency communications issues. #NENAGTW is the only event where you learn about the policy challenges facing 9-1-1 and then take immediate action to address them through dialogue with your elected and appointed officials.

Col. Burford, Mgr. Sims, Senator Hagerty, Senator Blackburn, SPRD Phillips, Mgr. Lovejoy

NENA 2024 911 Goes to Washington Attendees

February 26 - 28, 2024 | www.NENA.org Public Safety 9-1-1 Professionals Should be Classified as a Protective Service Occupation

The 9-1-1 SAVES Act (H.R. 6319/S. 3556) would require the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to revise the Standard Occupational Classification System to categorize Public Safety Professionals as a “Protective Service Occupation.”

Senate Leads (S. 3556) Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) Sen. John Thune (R-SD) Sen. Ted Budd (R-NC) Sen. Angus King (I-ME)

House Leads (H.R. 6319) Rep. Norma Torres (D-CA) Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) Plus 100 bipartisan co-sponsors House of Education and Workforce Committee

Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee

What You Need to Know •9-1-1 SAVES would cost nothing to enact, but it would properly recognize the skilled, difficult work that more than 100,000+ 9-1-1 professionals perform every day. The current “clerical” classification does not reflect the nature of our work.

•As evidence mounts for the chronic emotional and physical toll of answering 9-1-1 calls daily, 9-1-1 SAVES would enable researchers and policy makers to gather more accurate workforce data and evaluate targeted support and benefits.

•A growing list of states and localities have already reclassified 9-1-1 professionals, reflecting widespread agreement that 9-1-1 is much more than a clerical career.

•The Senate bill (S. 3556) also contains two Federal Communications Commission reporting requirements regarding Kari’s Law implementation and outage notifications—keeping the legislation in the Senate Commerce & Transportation Committee’s jurisdiction.

For More Information: Rep. Torres| Victoria Cervantes: victoria.cervantes@mail.house.gov Sen. Klobuchar| Baz Selassie: baz_selassie@klobuchar.senate.gov Sen. Blackburn | Michael Marn: michael_marn@blackburn.senate.gov NENA - The 9-1-1 Association: Jonathan Gilad, jgilad@nena.org 914 -500-3146

February 26 - 28, 2024 | www.NENA.org Support Using FCC Spectrum Auction Revenues to Fund Next Generation 9-1-1 Deployment The NG911 Act (H.R. 3565) would allocate $15 billion in Federal Communications Commission (FCC) spectrum auction revenues to accelerate deployment of Next Generation 9-1-1 in every state and community nationwide. This bill passed the House Energy & Commerce Committee unanimously on May 24, 2023. NENA supports the framework of this bill and hopes the Senate will soon take up a companion version.

Senate Leads • Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA) • Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee

House Leads (H.R. 3565) • Rep. Cathy Rogers (R-WA) • Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) House of Education and Workforce Committee

WHAT NG9-1-1 WILL FIX: Voice-only, analog connectivity. Current 9-1-1 systems rely mostly on analog technology and verbal communications, creating risks for callers who need to remain silent or those with hearing or speech disabilities. A digital system would enable callers to share rich data like videos, photos, or data with the 9-1-1 center.

Lack of robust caller information. In its current form, 9-1-1 struggles to provide precise caller location; information from sensors or alarms, or caller health history. Mobile devices have robust data capabilities, and 9-1-1 should be able to tap into them.

Inability to smoothly route and transfer calls. 9-1-1 is plagued by “misroutes” in which a call to 91-1 from a mobile phone may be relayed to the wrong jurisdiction. Misroutes can add precious seconds and minutes to a 9-1-1 call, which can mean life or death for people in emergency situations.

Lack of interoperability between agencies, jurisdictions, and services. In most communities, it is difficult to share information quickly and seamlessly across jurisdictional lines, complicating emergency responses that cross local boundaries.

Cyber risks. NG9-1-1 provides increased security from cyberattacks and outages. Haves and havenots. The NG9-1-1 Act will provide an opportunity for all eligible states, territories, and tribal entities to deploy Next Generation 9-1-1, creating a more uniform 9-1-1 experience for everyone in the U.S., no matter where they are.

Trades yesterday’s copper landline technology for today’s advanced internet-protocol-based networks.

Our local 9-1-1 systems cannot continue to meet Americans’ needs without fundamental upgrades to Next Generation 9-1-1.

For More Information: Jonathan Gilad, Government Affairs Director, NENA-The 9-1-1 Association, jgilad@nena.org, 914-500-3146

Karonda Well Wishes Karonda thanks for training me as as a dispatcher and a supervisor. You have an extensive knowledge of 9-1-1 and the Bureau and were willing to share it with everyone. I will miss our light laughs. Sad to see you go, still wishing you all the best.

- Erica May

We came into this profession together (116's) and I do hate to see you leave, however, I know that you will flourish at whatever you do because of your known skills of being a compassionate and caring person. I would like to wish you the best on all of your future endeavors and pray that you land where your heart is content.

- Hazel Merriweather K-Deuce it was a pleasure to work with you and meet your family. I took pride in being a mentor to you and was flattered when you came to me for advice. I wish you the best and you will be missed.

- Marvin Pender

Karonda, Congratulations on your new endeavor. It has been an honor and a privilege to work with you over the years. Thank you for all your contributions to the bureau. Continue to be the sweet, caring, and hard working person that you are. Wishing you all the best. ~ Metrica Spears I will always remember Karonda as a great communicator and motivator to the Bureau. You will be missed.

- Margaret Stiger

The Brass and the Field stop by and visit Communications. n I was Back whe .. on patrol.

Charlotte is filled with enthusiasm as she reads positive OBRS during First Friday.

Trina, Courtney, Ashley and Andrea are able to stop and smile because there are plenty of people in “READY”.

We have a new class in training.

Ashley and Trina give the new class a tour of the floor.

Yes that’s Leiser in the new class. Be sure to cheer them on.

Catching UP I saw former SPRD Latausha Blair at World Overcomers Church where she is on staff. She was coordinating a community event where MPD is partnering with the church to make informational videos for the community. I spoke on Communications. Tausha helped me prepare for the recording and even gave me some pointers with my script! She said to tell everyone she says hello. - Erica May

Watch Commander Rita Jackson She loves to come and visit.

Always with a smile.