ECB Monthly November 2021: Magazine Featuring Memphis' 9-1-1 Professionals

Official publication of the MPD Emergency Communications Bureau

NOVEMBER 2021

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

We consistently meet the national standard by answering 95.4% of our 9-1-1 calls in less than 20 seconds.

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

table of contents issue sixteen 04 FROM THE ADMINISTRATOR'S DESK

06 HISTORY MOMENT

08 DISPATCHER OF THE MONTH

10 MEETING CHIEF DAVIS

14 LEADERSHIP LESSON

32 FRIENDS OF OUR PSAP

MIKE SPENCER CASSANDRA BERRY EMILY BEILSTEIN JAMETA YOUNG JESSE MCCORD CARMEN TYLER

ECB Monthly Team: Chief Administrator Mike Spencer Editor-in-Chief Deranecque Rogers / Editor Erica May Contributor Sam Stamper /Contributor Linda Hollingsworth /Contributor Tiffany Whitaker

COVER STORY (pages 18-26) Caregiving & Communications featuring Kendra Curry, Charlotte Hardy, Anita Merriweather, Lenette Otis and Jameta Young

November Work Anniversaries 19 years 22 years 23 years 35 years

Jennifer Mutee Charlotte Hardy Regina Winfrey Lorna Griggs

Nov. 22, 2002 Nov. 15, 1999 Nov. 09, 1998 Nov. 10, 1986

Professional Development pages 13, 29 Enter the Christmas Story Contest page 35

finance focus pages 30, 36

ECB Family, I can’t believe it is already November. I know how challenging this year has been on all of you and I hope we are getting close to turning the corner.

Several PRDT’s from the December 2020 and March 2021 recruit classes will be getting released before the end of the year. We are actively looking at options to get us through this holiday season.

SHARE YOUR IDEAS If you haven’t completed the survey sent around this week, please check your email, and provide feedback. We also need ideas from you all who know the operation best. If you have some creative ideas for staffing, please share them. We are looking for temporary stop gap ideas to help until more Dispatchers are released. We have several past employees who have reached out and would like to come back in full time and part time capacities and we will continue to work with HR to fast track their return.

Testing has been in progress for the past 4-5 weeks and so far, we have over 70 candidates that passed our Criticall screening test with several more days of testing to go. The next class is scheduled to begin in January of 2022.

We should have plenty of eligible applicants to fill our remaining vacancies and we still plan to over hire to account for attrition.

201 POPLAR UPDATES Some of you have been reporting to our Alternate Site at 201 Poplar and many others will report there soon. We renovated the Dispatch floor last year and we went back in this year to renovate the break room and create a conference/training/roll call room.

We demoed the old tape room, Manager’s office, and Clerk’s office to create one large open space. I had them close in the doors and windows to the hallways so that the break room is private and secure.

I didn’t know who the County may move to that floor, so I wanted the break room to only be accessible to our staff. Those of us that worked out of that space have stories about people in that building wandering in and making themselves at home. I have shared with some employees that I designed the floor plan that you see today at 201 Poplar today about my 5th year (17 years ago) on the job.

I thought I was going to spend my entire career in that building and I tried to convince management that we could have more space if we removed some walls and opened it up. I was advised that we would never be able to renovate or get out of that building.

PAGE 4

FROM THE ADMINISTRATOR'S DESK NOV. 2021

Mike's Message

It took 17 years, but they were wrong on both accounts. It is imperative that a city our size has two fully functioning centers and now we do.

Everything was designed and configured so that anyone of you can walk in the door at either location, sit down at a position and begin working.

Once we are closer to being fully staffed, I would like to designate each site as District 1 Dispatch and District 2 Dispatch. We will see if there is interest in making each location an assignment you can bid to the same way officers bid to a precinct. As we get closer to 159 dispatchers, having employees split 24 hours a day will provide more opportunity for continued operations during any natural or manmade disaster. I want you guys to have the freedom to choose the location and co-workers you spend so much time with. The feedback from those that have worked some shifts at 201 Poplar has been positive.

Radio repair is following in our footsteps and working to renovate their space downstairs.

That is another driving factor to have 201 Poplar fully operational. I don’t know how loud the demolition downstairs is going to be and we may need to all report to 201 Poplar for a couple of weeks while they demo the old jail cells downstairs. We will know in the next couple of weeks how it will impact us.

P25 RADIO PROJECT UPDATE We are still on track to cut over to the new system in Jan-Feb 2022. Even though we have been using the newer consoles on the legacy system, training will be scheduled early next year before cutting over. The biggest change we can expect will be the GPS integration from the Portables and Mobiles. It will be much more reliable than the GPS from the laptops in the Cars. Every handheld and car radio on the system has GPS built in and it will be sent to CAD every time an officer keys up. It will send location information at regular intervals in between transmissions as well. The most important thing to make a note of is that when you hear an officer, you will have their location. If the voice comes through, the meta data containing the location will come through.

This will make it safer for the officers and hopefully reduce some stress on the Dispatcher when an officer is in an emergency situation.

I am an optimistic person, and I am looking forward to the next year. The last two years have felt like four years. Thanks for hanging in there. You are saving lives and providing lifelines to those in need every day. We have a lot of work ahead of us and we know many of you have great ideas. One of the goals we have in the coming year is to create some focus/working groups to discuss the roadmap our Bureau is on so be ready to get involved.

I expect a lot of changes in this next year and look forward to seeing how far we can go.

- Mike

ECB HISTORY MOMENT

By Cassandra Berry

your name here

" THE WALL" Editor's Note: We are just reminiscing. No we are not bringing the wall back. -DR Nobody wanted to be that person. It Many years ago during the CJC era, Communications had a "Jack A$$" Wall. Dispatchers would be placed on the wall for calling off sick and/or not working your shift during the holidays.

It was obvious back then because not that many people called in sick on holidays. Every one was happy to work their tour of duty, but don't ask us to work ANOTHER shift. When we found out who the culprit was, we put their names on the JA Wall.

We are referring to those who called off sick but were not sick. They just didn't want to come in on the holiday.

was embarrassing, but it served its purpose. Upon your return to work, you knew exactly where you stood with your co-workers who had to cover your shift.

I don't recall ever having more than one name placed on the wall at a time because people just didn't call in to work during those days.

As the Bureau grew and the new classes came, they also brought along more sensitive feelings and a different kind of work ethic. I believe somebody's feelings got hurt and that was the end of The Wall.

I remember the wall being comedic and truthful!

Employee names would be put on the wall If they did something that another employee thought was unethical or without morals. For example, calling off sick during holidays or reneging on a swap! You could also land on there if you snuck out to get lunch and didn’t ask others if they wanted anything! To toot my own horn, I never landed on it nor did I place anyone else's name on it!

-Patricia Wright

At first it was just for laughs and kind of funny. Towards the end it got kind of messy. It had to come down.

- Karen Ollie

ECB EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

PRD EMILY BEILSTEIN, CTO PRD Emily Beilstein has been working in Communications for two years. This is her first time winning Dispatcher of the Month.

She has a teenage son and daughter.

When she is not working, Emily enjoys listening to music, getting pedicures and binge-watching shows on Netflix.

How was training for you?

What is your most memorable call?

Training was grueling. There were days when I didn't think I could bring myself to come back in.

But, thanks to amazing CTO's, I always kept pushing. I had the BEST CTO's, and they're all still here. They're a big part of the reason I wanted to be a CTO myself.

Jonah, 10 years old. He called 911 due to a domestic situation inside the home. He was able to give his address so we could get him and his mom help as quickly as possible. I stayed on the phone with him until the officers were able to get there. He was so brave.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

What are you looking forward to in the future?

It can be challenging trying to stay sane when the phones are ringing nonstop and you can barely take a breath in between calls, even the ones that can take your breath away.

Other days, it's trying to keep up with 30+ officers on a busy radio, and making sure everyone gets home safely.

I am looking forward to seeing my son graduate from college, and my daughter from high school. I'm also looking forward to being able to travel at some point in the future.

There are so many places I want to see. And, of course, looking forward to continuing my career as a dispatcher for the City of Memphis. I truly do love what I do.

The WINNING Nomination

Submitted by Supervisors J. Young, K. Kirkwood, J. McCord & E. May

On The Scene

MEETING CHIEF DAVIS

BY SPRD JAMETA YOUNG Wednesday,

October

6,

2021,

Cassandra

and I had the opportunity to attend our first JLM

Garden

Gallery

Club

and

luncheon

meeting

Gardens.

was

“It’s

Neighborhood.”

a

To

at

The

the

theme

Beautiful

our

Day

surprise,

Dixon

for

the

Chief

in

the

Memphis. Instead of focusing on the issues and

C.J.

challenges our city is faced with daily, she found

Chief

Davis was the guest speaker.

Davis

also

spoke

about

our

great

city,

positive things to speak on. I recall her discussing organizational effectiveness, as it relates to our

Prior to her speech, she spent a little time meeting the

and

Junior

networking

introduce

to note some of the things she shared, I found

ourselves, she was very warm and pleasant. I

myself giving up on that and just enjoying being

then

in

told

the

her

Memphis.

opportunity

where

we

When

of She was very captivating and as much as I tried

got

of

members

we

finally

League

with

community.

to

worked

and

she

the

moment.

In

between

her

topics,

she

happily replied, “Oh you all are family!” She

managed to acknowledge Cassandra and I with

then

a

assured

us

that

things

(in

“shout-out”

as

she

so

proudly

said,

“I

have

Communications) were going to get better

some of my staff members here…wave your hands

and to hang in there. As her speech began,

so they can see you all!” The fact that she didn’t

she spoke about how she was raised and her

refer to us as just dispatchers, but as part of her

career; military

attributes dad

instilled

helped

leader she is today.

to

in

shape

her her

by

her

staff really made us feel like we, and the job we

into

the

have,

truly

does

matter!

Chief

Davis

was

very

personable with everyone and it was indeed a pleasure to meet her!

More New Trainers!

The CTO training class was amazing. It was very interesting and had lots of helpful information and insight on how to be an effective CTO. I enjoyed the teaching and learning on how to become a proficient CTO. My expectations of becoming a CTO are to be a good teacher, coach, mentor, and role model for trainees. My goal is to be a great trainer that will enable trainees to become exceptional call takers. My pledge is to continue to grow as a CTO, by continuing to search, learn, study and lead by our P & P. I'm grateful for this opportunity and look forward to helping in any way possible.

ERCO Felecia Shipp

CTO training was a lot of fun and extremely informative. Our instructor was great and very knowledgeable. As a CTO, I am very much looking forward to showing the newest dispatchers the ins and outs of the job and hopefully be able to have some of my love for being a PRD instilled in them.

PRD Emily Beilstein

NENA EXCELLENCE IN DISPATCH CERTIFICATE If you’re a telecommunicator who wants to take your skills – and career – to the next level, then the Excellence in Dispatch Certificate program is for you! Go beyond the basics of what you learned in your entry-level training program and gain the knowledge, tools, and resources you need to become a star performer.

Earning your certificate not only helps you excel under the headset but also empowers you to be a team leader and opens the door for long-term success in 9-1-1.

To earn your certificate, you must complete at least three of the five below courses within two years:

•

Advanced Fire & EMS Dispatching

•

Advanced Police Dispatching

•

Enhanced Caller Management

•

9-1-1 Customer Service: Takes Seconds, Saves Minutes

•

Preventing Telecommunicator Tunnel Vision For more information, visit nena.org/education and talk to an ECB manager.

NOVEMBER 2021 | ECB MONTHLY

LEADERSHIP LESSON Reflections, information and education from our Bureau's Leaders

WHAT DOES LEADERSHIP MEAN TO ME?

by SPRD Jesse McCord

SPR D has Jesse M b Bure een w cCord i i s t a hM emp a Char and u 8 ye lie ar hi proc ess s. Jess s Emer Shift su e g imp rove is pas ency C pervis o sion o men ate mmun r. He t. icat abo io ut t rain ns ing

"When a leader stops moving forward, everyone following them does too."- JM

Supervisor Towles tells Supervisor Webster about her jury duty experience.

2640 Supervisor Boswell hugs her trainer.

Supervisor Griggs. Lorna is trying to act like she isn't moved, but she is.

All Fired Up About Cancer Awareness For the month of October, Memphis Fire got all Fired Up About Cancer Awareness. October is designated as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide and is the most common diagnosed type of cancer in American women. It is also the second leading cause of cancer death among women. As a unit, we decided to come together to support those in our work family, relatives and friends who have been affected by cancer. Although October is designated as the month to recognize breast cancer awareness, we decided to include other types of cancers to spread awareness. We have several members of our work family that have been directly affected and we wanted to show our support. There is pink and blue love displayed all over the room as we show special honor and respect to our own who have fought and won the battle.

- Tiffany Whitaker

No caption needed. (yes, this is a caption)

Blue for Prostate Cancer Awareness

Fighter. Survivor.

Fire Alarm Operator III Dieadre Pritchett

She's a Survivor!

LaToya Palmer, Fire Alarm Operator III

MFD decorated for the cause

Celebrated every November, National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM) is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country. It offers an opportunity to raise awareness of caregiving issues, educate communities, and increase support for caregivers.

In this issue Memphis 9-1-1 dispatchers share their experience with caregiving while working in public safety.

by SPRD Jameta Young I wouldn’t consider myself a caregiver but a daughter that helped her Mom as best as I could. A typical day consisted of managing prescriptions and scheduling appointments in addition to working full time.

I must give most of the credit to my sister, Cheryl who was our mom's primary caregiver. She was an absolute jewel. Not every day was sunny. We disagreed and fussed many times. Even in the midst of the bad days, we stuck together to provide our Mom with the best care possible and with as much love as we could give.

Trying to be a caregiver and working my job was a challenge to put it mildly, which is why I credit my sister for most of my Mom’s care. Although she had more flexibility with her job, trying to work from home and manage our Mom’s care was not an easy task.

There were many times I made the decision to come to work when I wished I had stayed home with my Mom. Most days I still managed to go to her house when I got off, but my visits weren’t long because she would be resting by the time I would get off from many mandatory shifts. I took for granted that I would have many more days to spend with her. To this day, that is one of my biggest regrets.

Being a caregiver is a responsibility that not everyone can do. Hats off to my coworkers that are now having to assume this role and that are still managing to come to work and serve the citizens of Memphis. Trust me when I say, “I’ve been where you are, and I truly understand.”

Do you believe management was considerate of your situation?

I must give a shoutout to SPRD Jeremiah King. At the time of my Mom’s illness (and even her passing), Jeremiah was very compassionate and understanding to my situation. There weren’t many times that I needed to leave, but when I did, Jeremiah wouldn’t even let me finish explaining, he would just say, “Go”. He may not remember but for me it was those little things like being compassionate, and not questioning me that made things less hectic. Also, I will never forget the day I received the call of my Mom’s passing as I sat here at work. SPRD Michelle Gaylor and SPRD Metrica Spears were right there with me. They made sure I made it to my Mom’s house.

Jameta (right), with her mother Helen and sister Cheryl

Are there any rules or policy changes that you think would make it easier to work here?

No, I don’t think that there are any rules that need to be implemented. I think just showing your employees that you genuinely care and understanding that one day you may be faced with the same scenarios. Being empathetic to those that are having to care for loved ones meant a lot to me and it goes a long way.

Kendra Curry October 9th, 2018 was the day that changed the life of my mother and those closest to her. I can remember as if it were yesterday or even today.

A few weeks before that day my mom and I went to Wolfchase Mall because she wanted to get her eyes done at Sephora.

We had lunch and went into some of our favorite stores before heading to Sephora. I noticed my mother wasn't able to keep up with me --and I do not walk fast. I said to her " Mom, What's wrong? Why are you walking so slow? " She said she felt as if she was having a sick spell as she called it and she wanted to sit down which we did. She started to feel better, so she did indeed get her eyebrows done. The mall incident promoted me to call my mom's cardiologist and make her an appointment. I would try and always attempt to make her doctor's appointments on my RDOs ( off days).

It so happened to be that I took vacation the week of October 8th -12th 2018 due to my daughter Camryn being on fall break from school. My mother was scheduled have a stress test on Tuesday October 9th, 2018. I still have the doctor's voicemail on my cell phone. The cardiologist said my mom was experiencing heart blockage. I walked to the cafeteria to get something to eat while she had the stress test done. October 10th, 2018, the top heart doctor, Dr. H. E Garrett, with Baptist East hospital came into my mother's room and said my mother had two options: 1. Have Quadruple bypass heart surgery 2. Not have the surgery and she could be somewhere and have a massive heart attack and die. It didn't take long for us as a family to decide surgery was the way to go.

The morning of Thursday October 11th, 2018, my mom had surgery. She coded on the operation table and had to be put on a machine to be brought back to life.

Life after surgery has been where God has spared my mother's life . My mother is now a quadruple amputee and has to have 24-hour care. She has good days and not so good days-- which is to be expected. But by God's grace and mercy she is still here. We just celebrated the three year anniversary of her heart surgery. We use that day to reflect on how far God has brought us. We are indeed grateful and look forward to what' s to come.

I have now been my mother's care giver for 3 years . We are enrolled in a program called Choices. A nurse's aide, Alicia, comes and takes care of my mom during the week Monday- Friday from 7:00 to 3:00 while I am at work. I get home and we talk about her day as well as mine. I prepare her dinner, give her night medications and take care of her personal needs so we can get ready to go to bed. I never wanted to leave my mother in a nursing home so I took full responsibility of being her caretaker. I know in my heart of hearts, she would have done the same if it was me.

It can be hard being a caretaker and working in Communications due to the increase in drafting the bureau is experiencing . My mother was my biggest supporter in watching my daughter Camryn when it came to me being drafted, before she was depended on me to take care of her. I often wish I could turn back the hands of time where I was still getting drafted, and my mom was watching my daughter. I can't thank management and the supervisors enough for how concerned they were and still are for my mother and me. My coworkers are the best.

From the phone calls, prayers, text message and gifts I have received, they make me feel loved.

My brother Keith and my mom's sister Jean (recently retired from the United States Postal Service) do help out with my mother as well. I look forward to waking up and knowing my mother is still here. I love to hear when she has a good day where nothing is hurting her. I love that in spite of everything that has happened to her, she still wants to wear her lipstick and earrings. She wants to put on clothes and carry a purse of course. She loves purses and jewelry. My mom is truly a fighter and a miracle still here on earth.

Mastering the Assignment by Charlotte Hardy I've been an official caregiver for about two years for my Mother. I grocery shop for her if she doesn't feel up to it herself. I take her to all doctor's appointments and make sure she is taking her required medication. I try my best to make sure sure is comfortable. At this time she is able to complete her normal activities of daily living and that is a blessing.

She no longer likes to attend church without me so when my off days are the weekends, I do take her to her church for worship which she enjoys. It lifts her spirits.

A typical day is one of four people spending some amount of time with her, to make sure she is feeling okay and if she is not to address whatever her concerns are.

It doesn't matter how much I've worked, she will be looked after. I volunteer for the last 4 hours of Alpha, to ensure I get off on time and can be with her in the evening.

I wake up at 0215 to be at work at 0345; work from 0345 until 1545, then leave Flicker and travel to her.

When I check on her I run whatever errands she requires and then return home. I may stay with her depending on what is going on at the time. Sometimes this occurs back to back multiple times a week.

I believe and know that management is very considerate of my situation. Recently there was an issue with my mom and I left work on Bravo, after being drafted for Charlie shift. I left to take her to her physician who asked me to bring her in for a rushed/emergency appointment. I was able to communicate freely with supervisors Lorna Griggs and Katrina Towles. They told me to be careful and take care of her. The assured me that if I could return for the draft that would be great but if not to just let them know. I handled that business and returned to work at 1521 to work my overtime detail. My only gripe is that my favorite radio was given away, just for "in case" purposes. lol.

Those ladies were very considerate that day and I was glad to have been able to care for my mom and still return safely to cover the next shift. That is balance. That is professionalism and that was what was needed. I appreciate them both.

There have been other times when I simply have to take time off and when I do call into work, all supervisors have been sympathetic with me. No one has ever been unpleasant and made me feel inadequate for needing to be with her.

Charlotte and her mother

Charlotte's Story continued.......

My sister and her son help with my mother as well. My nephew spends the nights at her home more often than not. My significant other Marcus is a lifesaver. He will change his entire day to help my mother. Thankfully he has worked very hard and his position gives him that flexibility.

He lives near her and when we are not with each other he literally "blue lights" to her aid.

Having FMLA has assisted me in taking the necessary time to be with my mom without fear of losing my position or job. I want everyone to understand how it works and its importance. I used to be one of those people who believed that if you can work overtime then you should not use an FMLA day, and I was completely wrong. FMLA is catered to the individual or who they are caring for so the employee may actually be able to work all the drafts one week and all the doubles another week, but then that third or fourth week comes around and they are not able to physically work for set hours or a day/days.

I want all employees to be familiar with the FMLA policy, for us and the actual law to govern it. For those of us who use it implicitly for that reason- the right reason and don't abuse it- it is a Godsend and is working for its intended purpose.

When it comes to work and caregiving, I most look forward to making my dear Mom comfortable so that I can tend to myself or be pampered without worrying about her. Being a caregiver is selfless, in that your needs come second to who you are caring for. When she is okay, then and only then am I okay and free to travel, rest, exercise, work overtime and carry on.

At first I found it difficult to answer the question, " How is your mom doing?" Now my answer is " She thinks she is good."

I am exhausted, but I keep going. I would not want anyone else to be as hands on as I am with helping my mother. God has assigned me this task so to speak and I am mastering it. My support system and I are doing our best and I am proud of us all.

It is a blessing to be a blessing to someone.

“It is not how much you do, but how much love you put in the doing.” —Mother Theresa

TIME FOR SOME TRIVIA Q. Which president signed the Family Medical Leave Act into law? (answer at the bottom of the page)

THE FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE ACT The FMLA entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons with continuation of group health insurance coverage under the same terms and conditions as if the employee had not taken leave. Eligible employees are entitled to: Twelve work weeks of leave in a 12-month period for: the birth of a child and to care for the newborn child within one year of birth; the placement with the employee of a child for adoption or foster care and to care for the newly placed child within one year of placement; to care for the employee’s spouse, child, or parent who has a serious health condition; a serious health condition that makes the employee unable to perform the essential functions of his or her job; any qualifying exigency arising out of the fact that the employee’s spouse, son, daughter, or parent is a covered military member on “covered active duty;” or Twenty-six workweeks of leave during a single 12-month period to care for a covered servicemember with a serious injury or illness if the eligible employee is the servicemember’s spouse, son, daughter, parent, or next of kin (military caregiver leave).

Questions pertaining to FMLA are included in the ENP ( Emergency Number Professional) exam.

Answer: Bill Clinton: Year 1993

source: dol.gov

The FMLA Struggle

by Lenette Otis I have been a caregiver previously in my professional/career life over the last 10-15 years while sporadically taking care of close relatives (grandmother, aunt, father).

Now I am faced with the challenge of caring for my mother. Being a caregiver while working in Communications has become stressful. We're supposed to have access to FMLA but dealing with our FMLA servicer, The Standard, is no easy task. Since the end of February, my mother has endured multiple surgeries along with several complications. Some days she can barely get from the bedroom to the kitchen.

Driving? That's not happening.

Considering that she is used to being very independent, this situation has been an adjustment for the both of us. I make sure she's taken care of by ensuring she has food, making sure she doesn't fall, along with other things. I've also become her chauffeur/errand runner. I drive her to all appointments, do occasional grocery store runs and pick up meds from the pharmacy. There have been days when I can't make it to work and have been left fighting the FMLA battle. My children love spending time with their grandmother so there are some days that they get taken there after school and/or on weekends. It's not their responsibility so I don't look to them for assistance.

I have younger siblings who are in and out every once in a while, but you know there's always one who is more reliable and more mature. I am that one.

In my opinion, there are some great supervisors who understand that life happens. Since I began working here, I've always heard "We are family". This might be true, but we also have biological family as well. There has to be a better solution when employees are put in situations such as these. CONCERN and EAP are no good to us when we are still being forced to work overtime as shifts need 8-10 employees on overtime on each end. We are denied days off, and penalized for being "forced" to call out sick simply because we just can't function properly that day.

I look forward to the day when I can come to work rested, not worry about if something is going to happen at home and being able choose when I want to work overtime.

"My Favorite Girl" Anita Merriweather My situation is slightly different as I retired in 2017. I was the weekend caretaker for both of my parents. It required me to travel to their home every other weekend until my dad passed in 2019.

My mom now needs more care so I am with her every weekend. Typically I grocery shop, cook, clean, pick up and prepare her medicine for the week, receive daily email from USPS, manage bills/banking, receive emails/texts regarding doctor appointments and updates on her health. We exercise and do crossword puzzles and I monitor her home via cameras.

Pre-pandemic we attended church weekly, sometimes twice a week. Now we watch 2-5 services every week. (Church is her thing). This past Sunday we attended our first in-person service since March 2020. It made me happy to see the smile on her face because she missed seeing her fellow church members.

I truly believe management has been considerate of my situation as it can be fluid. My sister is my back up, but she still works a full time job and is PRN at a second job. I feel truly blessed to be able to be here and still be able to care for my mom. I'm looking forward to the time when I feel more comfortable travelling with her. I'll always love my mama. She's my favorite girl!

RESOURCES FOR CAREGIVERS The Caregiver's Rest Conference took place November 3.

Our very own, Kendra Curry was honored as a "Caregiver of the Year"

Watering the Right Seed

by Linda Hollingsworth, RPL

There was a report about children who had been bullied in school. It talked about how years later, those negative words were still having an effect on many of them. They interviewed this one man. He was in his 40’s. He looked to be a bright, intelligent man, but he had not been able to hold down a good job, struggled in his relationships, and couldn’t seem to get on course. He said as a child, he was overweight and chubby. Some of the other children made fun of him and called him names like “loser” and “failure.” He made the mistake of letting those words take root. Now they were keeping him operating in mediocrity.

When someone calls you something, either good or bad, that seed is planted in your soil. Now YOU get to determine whether or not that seed takes root and grows. When you dwell on what was said, you are watering the seed.

You’re giving it a right to become a reality. That’s why it’s so important that we’re disciplined in our thought life. It’s great when people tell you, “You’re blessed, You’re talented, You’re going to do great things.” Meditate on those throughout the day. Water those seeds and watch greatness become your reality.

TRUNK OR TREAT Manager Rogers participated in the

United Way Trunk or Treat drive-thru.

She received an award for " Most Spirited".

THE CITY OF MEMPHIS EMPLOYEE LEARNING CENTER IS VIRTUAL & VOLUNTARY

NOVEMBER 9 INTERVIEW TIPS 11:30AM - 1PM

NOVEMBER 10 LEARNING TO SAY NO 11:00AM - 12PM

Do you need a refresher course on how to interview well?

This session provides expert insight into the interview process.

People often agonize saying "no" to others (including their children) about the things they are pressured into doing that they don't really want to do. this is often because they prefer to take the easy route against their better judgement and say a reluctant and embittered "yes". The solution to saying "no" without feeling remourse lies in handling the situation skillfully and assertively which is the focus of this training.

NOVEMBER 30 RESPECTFUL WORKPLACE 8:30AM -11:30AM

This training focuses on respect, acceptable workplace conduct and the essential behaviors that foster a more respectful, inclusive and ultimately profitable workplace.

DECEMBER 8 CONFLICT MANAGEMENT 8:30AM -11:30AM

Learn about resolving conflict using simple practical strategies and examine the short/long term impacts of conflict. Participants will also practice applying the 3A Process for managing conflict.

Make $mart Plans with Your

BONU$

The City of Memphis has partnered with Operation Hope to provide free financial coaching to COM employees.

90 MINUTES: During your initial appointment, we will review your income, expenses, and credit report to develop a work plan that will help you reduce your debt, increase your savings, increase your credit score and accomplish any financial goal you would like to accomplish. Requirements for the appointment: 1. Most recent paycheck slips/stubs for 1 month 2. Most recent checking and savings bank statements (remove or blackout account number) 3. Completed Intake Forms ( Sent to you after you make the appointment- must be returned prior to appointment) ** If you need an appointment at a time not listed, please email me with your specific request.

The first 30 minutes of your appointment will be a financial literacy overview. Afterwards, we will review your income, expenses, and credit report to develop a work plan that will help you reduce your debt, increase your savings, increase your credit score and accomplish any financial goal you would like to accomplish. Requirements for the appointment: Most recent paycheck slips/stubs for 1 month Most recent checking and savings bank statements (remove or blackout account number) Completed Intake Forms ( Sent to you after you make the appointment- must be returned prior to appointment) ** If you need an appointment at a time not listed, please email me with your specific request.

1 HOUR During your appointment we will discuss financial literacy and its importance of budgeting, saving, credit, dealing with debt, EITC & CTC, disaster preparedness and the steps needed for financial wholeness. Requirements for the appointment: 1. Intake Form ( Sent to you after you make the appointment- must be returned prior to appointment) ** If you need an appointment at a time not listed, please email me with your specific request.

https://iamcoachregina.youcanbook.me/ https://square.site/book/LC6XZS07AKC3 Y/hope-inside-city-of-memphis-memphistn

HOPE Inside City of Memphis 480 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., Memphis, TN 38126 Darfeis Williams darfeis.williams@operationhope.org 901-636-9330 (office) 901-233-4321 (mobile) PROGRAMS: Credit & Money Management

NOVEMBER 2021

Carmen Tyler

FRIENDS OF OUR PSAP

After several years of study, I entered the financial industry to explore my passion for accounting. For most people, accounting doesn’t sound very interesting. For me, it is a passion I’ve been chasing for several years. I joined the staff of the Shelby County Emergency Communications District in 2013 as an Administrative Assistant and then moved to the position of Bookkeeper. Currently, I am serving as the Accounting Manager focusing on the collection and standardized recording of business transactions related to money.

My responsibilities include components of accounting such as keeping records of assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses, and purchases. This information is consolidated into comprehensively prepared, scrutinized, and interpreted financial reports for the information and guidance of management and the Board of Directors.

In addition to my passion for accounting, I highly regard my co-workers and the

Accounting Manager Shelby County 9-1-1 District

sought-after atmosphere of a small staff. Although everyone’s job is specialized, there is an environment of teamwork and comradery that prevails when performing our duties as well as providing service to the public.

I was a bit bewildered during my interview for the position as I had never had a “panel interview”. The panel was comprised of an attorney, accounting firm, and a detective, amongst others. I wondered which one was Raymond because he never asked me any questions! Subsequently, he offered me the position during our telephone conversation. After ending the call, I decided he was waiting to see who I was!

When asked the question “What is it like to work for Raymond?” I wasn’t sure how to respond because work isn’t working and Raymond is both professional, dedicated, and humorous. He empowers me with the resources I need to achieve efficiency and oversees tasks as needed. In other words, he allows me to be me without compromising integrity or professionalism.

" One of the most important aspects of any job is the ability to work well with others.

Working for Shelby County 9-1-1 District and with my co-workers is a delight."

One of the most important aspects of any job is the ability to work well with others. Working for the District and with my co-workers has been a longanticipated delight. Raymond, Carlton, Sue, Harold, and Timothy are vigorous in the performance of their responsibilities and steadfast in providing service to Shelby County. As a result, my role in the organization is a perfect fit for the passion I have and the duties I perform.

Carmen Tyler

TNAchieves, the partnering organization for TN Promise in Shelby County, still needs almost 4,800 volunteer mentors across the state by the December 3rd deadline. Mentors spend about one hour per month working with a small group of high school seniors as they transition from high school to college.

Mentors provide reminders, serve as a trusted resource and, most importantly, encourage students to reach their full potential. Many students that use TN Promise will be the first in their family to attend college and this non-financial support is often the difference maker for these students.

Providing students in our community with greater access to higher education will ensure that they gain the experience necessary to allow our community to thrive. Investing one hour a month and can be life changing for the students you are working with and will also help to set our county, region and state up for future success!

TNAchieves is offering both in-person and virtual mentoring options in 2022.

You can find more information and apply at www.tnachieves.org/mentors.

You can also contact TNAchieves Director of Mentors Tyler Ford at tyler@tnAchieves.org or 309-945-3446 with any questions.

Amen

written by Erica May

THE CHRISTMAS STORY CONTEST IS BACK!!

WILL YOU BE A WINNER?

What is your favorite " at work" Christmas memory?

We have all worked on Christmas. In seven sentences or less tell us about your favorite "at work" Christmas memory. It doesn't have to be on Christmas but can be anytime during the holiday season. So tell us about that Christmas party or your favorite Secret Santa gift.

What is your most memorable holiday call?

Have you taken an interesting 9-1-1 call during the holidays that has stuck with you. Share it with the magazine. In seven sentences or less tell us about the call. It can be humorous, heartfelt or even heartbreaking.

Share pictures if you have them. We will feature the stories and announce the winners in the December issue.Open to ALL ECB employees. Email submissions to deranecque.rogers@memphistn.gov Submissions are due by November 20. We can't wait to read your story.

Where Does Your Christmas Spending Rank? source: ramseysolutions.com Americans plan to spend $997.79 on holiday purchases for themselves and their families this year. That’s down from last year’s $1,048, but it’s still a big chunk of change.

Is that all on presents under the tree? Nope—here’s a breakdown: Gifts: $650 Food and decorations: $230 Other holiday purchases: $117 Yeah, Christmas can get expensive. But remember: Those are averages based on what the average American plans to spend. Which brings us to our next point:

How Much Will You Spend on Christmas?

Turns out, you don’t have to be average. You’re in charge of your money and your spending. So, you get to decide if you spend $100 or $1,000 on gifts this year. Just follow these three tips while you’re figuring out how much you’ll spend on Christmas: 1. Don’t spend more than you can really afford—aka don’t go into debt to fund your Christmas. You don’t need to still be paying off your kid’s new bike come St. Patrick’s Day. 2. When you know what you actually have to spend, create a Christmas budget.

3. Stick to the budget.

Quick Tips to Stay on Budget This Christmas

long. Christmas spending can get out Keep your Christmas list from getting too

of control real quick if you buy gifts for every extended family member and coworker. Forget obligation gifts. Buy only for the people you really want and need to buy for.

Tighten spending in other spots of your budget. The money for Christmas has to come from somewhere. Saving up over a few months before December is always your best bet. But if you haven’t been doing that, it’s not too late to budget for all the holly and jolly of the season. Just tighten spending in other areas of your budget.

Check your motives. If you’re feeling pressure to spend more than you have this Christmas, ask yourself why. Is it because you want to look a certain way to others? Is it because you want better for your children than you had as a kid? It might be time to remind yourself what the Grinch learned when his heart tripled in size: Christmas isn’t about tags, packages, boxes or bags. Check your motives so you can stay in budget.

Shop deals online. Shopping online might be your cup of cocoa if you’re prone to overspending in a frenzied mall. Plus, it’s so easy to check for deals and do quick price comparisons across websites. Just remember, shipping isn’t an instant thing. If you get down to crunch time, consider a digital gift like an e-book.

Go in on a group gift. Sometimes the perfect gift for someone on your list is, well, sort of expensive. Don’t worry. You don’t have to settle for coal. Just get others to go in on it together. Maybe you and your siblings all pay for part of that fancy grill Dad’s been talking about nonstop. Or email all the parents in your kid’s class to do one, bigger gift card. You don’t have to sacrifice quality to stay in budget. You just need to plan well.

Give meaningful gifts. Instead of knickknacks or random clutter this year, give presents that mean something. For your BFF, that could be a framed photo from an important moment together. Maybe snag a journal for your nephew who loves writing or a book on something that’s near and dear to Mom. Think about gifts that will make an impact on their hearts, and maybe on their lives!

Hey, we’ve got lots of options when it comes to meaningful gifts—books, planners, tools and memberships to help people reach their goals. There’s not much more meaningful than that.

We’ve shared Christmas spending averages for this year and some ways to help you stay on budget. But really, the holidays shouldn’t be about being “average”—in your spending, your gift-giving, or your priorities. Be better than average. Be great. Make a plan, set a budget—and have yourself a merry little Christmas.

prdt studying

supv towles

TRAINING AT 201

Trainer Kandace Booker pauses a moment from call-taking instructing to pose.

WORTH REPEATING