Monday, August 2, 2010
The Move
I guess I have made the transition to this new site. visit http://touringaradiocar.wordpress.com
Friday, July 16, 2010
Considering a Move
Well, I was attempting to post today, but realized that I can not copy and paste, I can't undo, and I am wondering what else can be done.
A friend told me about another blogging site, which according to him is friendlier when working with keyboard controls.
Blogger says you can use control Z to undo, but I have found, thus far that it does not work.
So it may be a good idea to make a move.
A friend told me about another blogging site, which according to him is friendlier when working with keyboard controls.
Blogger says you can use control Z to undo, but I have found, thus far that it does not work.
So it may be a good idea to make a move.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Teaching to Test
New legislation in many states are calling for new teacher evaluations. In this effort, they are spinning the world to improve teaching. This improvement is solely based on teacher evaluations. If a student performs well in your classroom, you are going to be able to teach.
This is not a holistic approach to education. These new teacher evaluations appear to be a dead end for the overall system of education.
If you base your entire system merely on how well the teacher performs I wonder what type of teacher are you going to get?
I think that we are ignoring a greater aspect of education. Education has always and will continue to be a controversial issue. The controversy started many years ago after the government took over the role of educators. As this role unfolded, parents began to realize that the government was not providing for the educational needs of the gifted.
Teaching was now based on the classroom. Your teaching style was to show all the students how to perform, learn and test. If you had a student that was excelling, you had to slow him down so other students could catch up. If you had a student who was slow, you attempted to speed them up. Often times this created more conflict in the classroom. With the growing classroom, this become more difficult the more students that were assigned to your classroom.
To resolve this conflict, parents began to realize that if they wanted their child to succeed, they were going to have to provide for their child. Homeschooling was around, but it did not afford the opportunities. Parents then began to create their own school. They found buildings, teachers, administrators and the re birth of private schools began to grow.
So if you could afford to send your child to a private school, they were going to get the education that you thought was best. If you could not afford the private school, then you were forced to use the public school system.
There is definitely a difference between public and private schools. But is this difference based on teacher evaluations and performance?
I think that many teachers are questioning what this will do to society.
The 'no child left behind' laws are definitely a challenge for teachers. How can you teach when a child has limited support at home? How can you teach a child who has priorities elsewhere? How can you teach a child when their social network is more important than their education?
In private schools, there is contract law. Contracts are everywhere within the private school. Administrators, teachers, students and parents all sign contracts. These contracts provide for conduct, teaching styles, salaries, costs, you name it, the private school has thought about it.
In public schools, there are not contracts, except for the teachers. Often provided for by teacher associations requiring provisions for the job. None of the public school teacher contracts have any of the provisions that private teachers have.
Does this make a difference? I think that this does make a tremendous amount of difference. If a child, in a private school does not adhere to the contractual agreement, they are often removed from the school.
What does the public school have. Discipline that often does not work. Sometimes a public school student will get into trouble so they can receive discipline. This gets them out of the classroom, away from teachers they have a personal problem. Or they may not like the subject or the expectations of the classroom or teachers.
So government is trying to reinvent the wheel. They created the 'no child left behind' and now we are moving towards teacher evaluations. The ideas are to provide for every child and to make sure that all teachers perform.
Well, you can not provide for a student if there is no support at home. You can not provide for a student if the parents are unable to help teach. You can not provide for a student if there family is resistant to change.
Parents have become a demanding bread. Parents will spout out a statement "I know what is best for my child, and your teaching method, your discipline is not what my child needs."
When children hear this, they think, I don't have to listen to my teacher, my Mom and Dad know best. What this creates is a discipline issue. This disciplinary issue is not only at school, but spills out to the community.
So why would I post something about education on a radio car blog? These decisions that the experts are making are having a strong impact on our performance in the radio car industry.
When a child hears their parent defend them, they learn that they are important and right. They quickly learn that the teacher, administrator or school employee are wrong when it comes to the student. The student then builds confidence in knowing that their parent will come to their rescue and fight till the death.
When a parent sits down and listens to the issues the teacher has, listens to the student, listens to the administrator, the parent becomes more informed. Parents then can make educated decisions on what is best. When parents make an educated decision, this is usually the best for the student, teacher and the class.
However, this is rare. If one hangs out at a school, they will usually see the parent fly off the handle when it comes to their child. They will not approach the situation with an open mind. Because of this, their child's attitude grows into what many call 'bullet proof'. They develop an attitude of 'you can't do that to me'.
This becomes very destructive for a community. Their actions are not limited to school, but to others, including police, paramedics, firemen, and their elders. This usually develops into a lack of respect for life. This lack of respect for life becomes a destructive force. This force is in the number of shootings within a community. This will appear in the amount of other violence a community will experience.
We are teaching children "its all about me". This contradicts what many experts believe. There is a prevailing thought that it takes a village to raise a child. But some parents are destroying that concept by teaching their children the importance of "ME".
My personal struggle is when you find what many call a quality teacher. But over the years, as this teacher reaches the golden years of teaching, being close to retirement, they often slack in the classroom. Their lectures become non existent. Students have a free rain in the classroom being able to do 'whatever' on their own because the teacher is getting burned out. This same teacher will demand performance from students based on their previous years of teaching. They don't recognize that their lectures, their teaching methods have slacked. This type of teacher will blame the students for non performance. They lack the ability to see that their teaching has dropped within the classroom.
It is the teachers contract that protects this teacher. People will stand and defend the teacher because of his or her reputation. But if one took time to speak to the students, observe the classroom, you might discover that the teacher will give an assignment and then sit at his or her desk and read a book. That they ignore what is going on in the classroom. And if the students are quiet, then there is no suspicion or reason for the teacher to get out of their own book.
It is the lack of evaluation of performance. If an administrator had the opportunity to evaluate this teacher in the classroom, then his or her book reading may stop and he or she may actually teach the students.
In private schools, teachers are evaluated constantly. Administrators, department head keep tabs in the classroom. The keep tabs on extra curricular activities. If the administrator or department head sees a problem, they address it immediately.
In public schools, you are rarely seeing administrators or department heads visiting the classroom. They are often too busy meeting the disciplinary needs of the school children. They are often too busy trying to organize a safe school event (football, basketball, dances etc).
When you distract the attention from what is important, you often create a problem. I feel that the legislatures within certain communities are failing to conduct proper evaluations. They are tossing water on a chemical fire. By doing this, they are adding to the fire therefore they are creating more harm.
This is not a holistic approach to education. These new teacher evaluations appear to be a dead end for the overall system of education.
If you base your entire system merely on how well the teacher performs I wonder what type of teacher are you going to get?
I think that we are ignoring a greater aspect of education. Education has always and will continue to be a controversial issue. The controversy started many years ago after the government took over the role of educators. As this role unfolded, parents began to realize that the government was not providing for the educational needs of the gifted.
Teaching was now based on the classroom. Your teaching style was to show all the students how to perform, learn and test. If you had a student that was excelling, you had to slow him down so other students could catch up. If you had a student who was slow, you attempted to speed them up. Often times this created more conflict in the classroom. With the growing classroom, this become more difficult the more students that were assigned to your classroom.
To resolve this conflict, parents began to realize that if they wanted their child to succeed, they were going to have to provide for their child. Homeschooling was around, but it did not afford the opportunities. Parents then began to create their own school. They found buildings, teachers, administrators and the re birth of private schools began to grow.
So if you could afford to send your child to a private school, they were going to get the education that you thought was best. If you could not afford the private school, then you were forced to use the public school system.
There is definitely a difference between public and private schools. But is this difference based on teacher evaluations and performance?
I think that many teachers are questioning what this will do to society.
The 'no child left behind' laws are definitely a challenge for teachers. How can you teach when a child has limited support at home? How can you teach a child who has priorities elsewhere? How can you teach a child when their social network is more important than their education?
In private schools, there is contract law. Contracts are everywhere within the private school. Administrators, teachers, students and parents all sign contracts. These contracts provide for conduct, teaching styles, salaries, costs, you name it, the private school has thought about it.
In public schools, there are not contracts, except for the teachers. Often provided for by teacher associations requiring provisions for the job. None of the public school teacher contracts have any of the provisions that private teachers have.
Does this make a difference? I think that this does make a tremendous amount of difference. If a child, in a private school does not adhere to the contractual agreement, they are often removed from the school.
What does the public school have. Discipline that often does not work. Sometimes a public school student will get into trouble so they can receive discipline. This gets them out of the classroom, away from teachers they have a personal problem. Or they may not like the subject or the expectations of the classroom or teachers.
So government is trying to reinvent the wheel. They created the 'no child left behind' and now we are moving towards teacher evaluations. The ideas are to provide for every child and to make sure that all teachers perform.
Well, you can not provide for a student if there is no support at home. You can not provide for a student if the parents are unable to help teach. You can not provide for a student if there family is resistant to change.
Parents have become a demanding bread. Parents will spout out a statement "I know what is best for my child, and your teaching method, your discipline is not what my child needs."
When children hear this, they think, I don't have to listen to my teacher, my Mom and Dad know best. What this creates is a discipline issue. This disciplinary issue is not only at school, but spills out to the community.
So why would I post something about education on a radio car blog? These decisions that the experts are making are having a strong impact on our performance in the radio car industry.
When a child hears their parent defend them, they learn that they are important and right. They quickly learn that the teacher, administrator or school employee are wrong when it comes to the student. The student then builds confidence in knowing that their parent will come to their rescue and fight till the death.
When a parent sits down and listens to the issues the teacher has, listens to the student, listens to the administrator, the parent becomes more informed. Parents then can make educated decisions on what is best. When parents make an educated decision, this is usually the best for the student, teacher and the class.
However, this is rare. If one hangs out at a school, they will usually see the parent fly off the handle when it comes to their child. They will not approach the situation with an open mind. Because of this, their child's attitude grows into what many call 'bullet proof'. They develop an attitude of 'you can't do that to me'.
This becomes very destructive for a community. Their actions are not limited to school, but to others, including police, paramedics, firemen, and their elders. This usually develops into a lack of respect for life. This lack of respect for life becomes a destructive force. This force is in the number of shootings within a community. This will appear in the amount of other violence a community will experience.
We are teaching children "its all about me". This contradicts what many experts believe. There is a prevailing thought that it takes a village to raise a child. But some parents are destroying that concept by teaching their children the importance of "ME".
My personal struggle is when you find what many call a quality teacher. But over the years, as this teacher reaches the golden years of teaching, being close to retirement, they often slack in the classroom. Their lectures become non existent. Students have a free rain in the classroom being able to do 'whatever' on their own because the teacher is getting burned out. This same teacher will demand performance from students based on their previous years of teaching. They don't recognize that their lectures, their teaching methods have slacked. This type of teacher will blame the students for non performance. They lack the ability to see that their teaching has dropped within the classroom.
It is the teachers contract that protects this teacher. People will stand and defend the teacher because of his or her reputation. But if one took time to speak to the students, observe the classroom, you might discover that the teacher will give an assignment and then sit at his or her desk and read a book. That they ignore what is going on in the classroom. And if the students are quiet, then there is no suspicion or reason for the teacher to get out of their own book.
It is the lack of evaluation of performance. If an administrator had the opportunity to evaluate this teacher in the classroom, then his or her book reading may stop and he or she may actually teach the students.
In private schools, teachers are evaluated constantly. Administrators, department head keep tabs in the classroom. The keep tabs on extra curricular activities. If the administrator or department head sees a problem, they address it immediately.
In public schools, you are rarely seeing administrators or department heads visiting the classroom. They are often too busy meeting the disciplinary needs of the school children. They are often too busy trying to organize a safe school event (football, basketball, dances etc).
When you distract the attention from what is important, you often create a problem. I feel that the legislatures within certain communities are failing to conduct proper evaluations. They are tossing water on a chemical fire. By doing this, they are adding to the fire therefore they are creating more harm.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Fight Fair
The following "Fight Fair" article was written and posted by the 'Naked Pastor' on his blog. This blog post was about fighting fair, with rules of engagement. I believe them to be appropriate, so I hope that this post finds you. And I hope that all credit goes to the 'Naked Pastor'.
"This is based on a very old post of mine. If we're going to fight, let's fight fair. Here's a few rules I would suggest to my readers. Especially those who comment:
1. Be RESPECTFUL. Don't name-call. Don't belittle others.
2. FOCUS on the issue. Don't get personal. Maintain clarity on your view.
3. STAY on point. Don't change the subject until you have dealt with the original issue.
4. WAIT before writing. don't respond when angry. Cool off first. Present a reasoned response. It can be impassioned, but make sure it is not a knee-jerk reaction.
5. Try to UNDERSTAND what others are saying. Don't write people off, but try to understand where they are coming from. Walk in their shoes for a minute.
6. IF you don't understand what they are saying, ASK for clarity. Don't assume you know what they mean.
7. Even if we argue ideas, try to RESPECT and appreciate other people."
Now I did not include all the examples, but I believe that if you take this information, you have gained one thing. A start to fighting fair...
Good luck.
Visit the Naked Pastor blog at www.nakedpastor.com
"This is based on a very old post of mine. If we're going to fight, let's fight fair. Here's a few rules I would suggest to my readers. Especially those who comment:
1. Be RESPECTFUL. Don't name-call. Don't belittle others.
2. FOCUS on the issue. Don't get personal. Maintain clarity on your view.
3. STAY on point. Don't change the subject until you have dealt with the original issue.
4. WAIT before writing. don't respond when angry. Cool off first. Present a reasoned response. It can be impassioned, but make sure it is not a knee-jerk reaction.
5. Try to UNDERSTAND what others are saying. Don't write people off, but try to understand where they are coming from. Walk in their shoes for a minute.
6. IF you don't understand what they are saying, ASK for clarity. Don't assume you know what they mean.
7. Even if we argue ideas, try to RESPECT and appreciate other people."
Now I did not include all the examples, but I believe that if you take this information, you have gained one thing. A start to fighting fair...
Good luck.
Visit the Naked Pastor blog at www.nakedpastor.com
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Thank You All For Thinking of Us
I would like to thank everyone who has thought about my family this past month. I would like to thank everyone for saying a prayer. If it were not for the wonderful support that one gives to another, life would not be bearable or tolerable.
I guess you can say that on a day where celebration is a key component within a country, even with a loss, there was still celebration.
What you find after that loss is beyond all expectations. You become aware that after 85 years of life, one would expect to know many things. Being a participant for 47 years, one would think that you would learn a tremendous amount about those 85 years. I would even venture to say that being apart of that life for 24 years, you would learn something about those 85 years.
85 years ago, he stepped into this world. As the path grew in his life, things changed over time. These changes came in the form of a depression, world wars, marriage, children, and employment. All these experience changed how one thinks, feels and acts.
But when you talk to a WWII veteran, you learn that they never speak of those things that were required of them during their tour.
When they encounter someone who served during that time, it is like two old friends reunited. Space and time is non existent and they pick up where they left off, speaking a language that they can only understand. A bond exists between the two that is difficult to understand. I had one veteran say, "Well, it was a time, and if you did not experience it, you will never know. It has all changed now, because of us and what we went through."
Silence. The old men, will just sit there looking, listening, smelling, and I guess they may have been wondering how they were still there, when others were not so lucky.
As time passes, it is then when you learn about some of those 85 years. As people gather to reminisce that is when you really learn. It also reminds you of what you might have missed, wishing you knew more.
You explore. You find pictures, DD214, military orders, love letters, notes, letters home, and the list continues. You find some things that you expected and some things that you did not expect. You wonder why he kept that grade school report cards, wedding invitations, graduation announcements and death notices. You discover news papers with family information, celebrations and tragedies. The family Bible is located.
You discover how others speak about the loss that has just occurred. You see a grandchild who writes: "They were separated in August of 2001. She waited patiently for him to join her, keeping an eye on him. When they reunite, the celebration would be bigger than their wedding. Well, it has been almost nine years and today there is a party in heaven, just for the two of them. We will always miss you two and we love you deeply. You can now rest in peace."
I then realize what I have been missing. I learned that I am missing a history and I want to learn more.
Will you take the opportunity to learn more?
What can we do to change this statement, "I never knew that...."
A National Cemetery is a location of rest, remembrance, and honor. To remember that many sacrificed for our county is one thing. To go to a National Cemetery and see the white markers gives you a whole new perspective of what sacrifice really means. Then as you sit there looking at those markers around you, you see the numbers of Veterans who have served and sacrificed. You casually stroll by a couple of markers and see when those sacrifices occurred.
Then 85 years means much more than I ever realized.
Then you realize that the 4th of July means more than a celebration of a country's birthday. You also realize that the 4th of July means more than a death in the family.
You realize that this individual may not have celebrated the 4th of July on a grand scale. It was celebrated with family. It was celebrated with silence, just like those two old men who were reunited. It had some significance that is still illusive.
That's when 85 years means more than I will ever know.
Give rest, O Christ to your servants, with your saints, where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting. Into your hands, we commend your servants, sheep's of your own fold, lambs of your own flocks, sinners of your own redeeming. Receive them into the arms of your mercy, into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of all the saints. Amen.
I guess you can say that on a day where celebration is a key component within a country, even with a loss, there was still celebration.
What you find after that loss is beyond all expectations. You become aware that after 85 years of life, one would expect to know many things. Being a participant for 47 years, one would think that you would learn a tremendous amount about those 85 years. I would even venture to say that being apart of that life for 24 years, you would learn something about those 85 years.
85 years ago, he stepped into this world. As the path grew in his life, things changed over time. These changes came in the form of a depression, world wars, marriage, children, and employment. All these experience changed how one thinks, feels and acts.
But when you talk to a WWII veteran, you learn that they never speak of those things that were required of them during their tour.
When they encounter someone who served during that time, it is like two old friends reunited. Space and time is non existent and they pick up where they left off, speaking a language that they can only understand. A bond exists between the two that is difficult to understand. I had one veteran say, "Well, it was a time, and if you did not experience it, you will never know. It has all changed now, because of us and what we went through."
Silence. The old men, will just sit there looking, listening, smelling, and I guess they may have been wondering how they were still there, when others were not so lucky.
As time passes, it is then when you learn about some of those 85 years. As people gather to reminisce that is when you really learn. It also reminds you of what you might have missed, wishing you knew more.
You explore. You find pictures, DD214, military orders, love letters, notes, letters home, and the list continues. You find some things that you expected and some things that you did not expect. You wonder why he kept that grade school report cards, wedding invitations, graduation announcements and death notices. You discover news papers with family information, celebrations and tragedies. The family Bible is located.
You discover how others speak about the loss that has just occurred. You see a grandchild who writes: "They were separated in August of 2001. She waited patiently for him to join her, keeping an eye on him. When they reunite, the celebration would be bigger than their wedding. Well, it has been almost nine years and today there is a party in heaven, just for the two of them. We will always miss you two and we love you deeply. You can now rest in peace."
I then realize what I have been missing. I learned that I am missing a history and I want to learn more.
Will you take the opportunity to learn more?
What can we do to change this statement, "I never knew that...."
A National Cemetery is a location of rest, remembrance, and honor. To remember that many sacrificed for our county is one thing. To go to a National Cemetery and see the white markers gives you a whole new perspective of what sacrifice really means. Then as you sit there looking at those markers around you, you see the numbers of Veterans who have served and sacrificed. You casually stroll by a couple of markers and see when those sacrifices occurred.
Then 85 years means much more than I ever realized.
Then you realize that the 4th of July means more than a celebration of a country's birthday. You also realize that the 4th of July means more than a death in the family.
You realize that this individual may not have celebrated the 4th of July on a grand scale. It was celebrated with family. It was celebrated with silence, just like those two old men who were reunited. It had some significance that is still illusive.
That's when 85 years means more than I will ever know.
Give rest, O Christ to your servants, with your saints, where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting. Into your hands, we commend your servants, sheep's of your own fold, lambs of your own flocks, sinners of your own redeeming. Receive them into the arms of your mercy, into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of all the saints. Amen.
Look Before You Drive
should also look first.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Law Enforcement Officer deaths this year are on the rise. It is a great concern to know that 88 LEO's have been killed in the line of duty in 2010. As we mark the half way point in 2010, we look at these statistics then compare them to a previous year. Last years numbers were 19 less.
What is a great concern is the fact that we are seeing a rise in single incident, multiple officer killings.
So as this staggering statistic rises for 2010, we must remember to reflect on their tragic stories. This will help LEO's with tactics and will help us remember our fallen hero's.
The Officer Down Memorial Page and the National Police Memorial accomplishes that goal. We honor the lives of these law enforcement officers and these two programs (websites) bring this to a national level.
Honor these law enforcement officers and learn about their lives. Visit the Officer down Memorial Page at www.odmp.org.
The National Law Enforcement Memorial page can be found at www.nleomf.com.
What is a great concern is the fact that we are seeing a rise in single incident, multiple officer killings.
So as this staggering statistic rises for 2010, we must remember to reflect on their tragic stories. This will help LEO's with tactics and will help us remember our fallen hero's.
The Officer Down Memorial Page and the National Police Memorial accomplishes that goal. We honor the lives of these law enforcement officers and these two programs (websites) bring this to a national level.
Honor these law enforcement officers and learn about their lives. Visit the Officer down Memorial Page at www.odmp.org.
The National Law Enforcement Memorial page can be found at www.nleomf.com.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Annual Leave
Well, I am glad that I put in for annual leave this year. I was hoping to head west and see some really wonderful sights.
I may not have been able to head west, or travel anywhere, but there is always someplace to escape to. Just down the road, a Pirate ship in the parking lot. Close your eyes and imagine sailing on the sea, looking for a plethora of bounty.
Well, with all things, it may have been better that we stayed home. You never know what would have happened it we had to turn around and head back. Life changes, with that you can either be upset or allow your lemons to provide you with some great drinks during the summer.
I may not have been able to head west, or travel anywhere, but there is always someplace to escape to. Just down the road, a Pirate ship in the parking lot. Close your eyes and imagine sailing on the sea, looking for a plethora of bounty.Friday, June 4, 2010
Pondering the Drive
When it comes to driving, many people wonder about the other drivers.
There are two questions that quickly come to mind as we drive with our friends and family.
The first question:
Why is it that everyone driving faster than you is considered an idiot?
The second question:
Why is it that everyone driving slower than you is considered a moron?
There are two questions that quickly come to mind as we drive with our friends and family.
The first question:
Why is it that everyone driving faster than you is considered an idiot?
The second question:
Why is it that everyone driving slower than you is considered a moron?
Sunday, May 30, 2010
May 30, a Day of HIstory
On this Day, Former President Taft dedicated the Lincoln Memorial in 1922. Former President Taft at the time was the Chief Justice of the United States Surpreme Court. The only Former President to serve on the Surpreme Court.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Walking for Special Olympics....
Special Olympians are giving their all, enjoying themselves and having fun all in the name of good sportsmanship.
These games continue each year because dedicated people make a difference. This difference was carried out this year in the name of the Cpl. Jared Shoemaker Memorial Walk. The Jared Shoemaker Memorial Walk may be over for this year, but the reason for the walk is continuing in Stillwater, OK. Giving the opportunity for those to give it their all.
The Cpl. Jared Shoemaker Memorial Walk (to benefit the Special Olympics) raised $12,000.00. In the last six hours, I have heard nothing but great praises for those who walked, gave of themselves, provided a donation, or just came to be a major supporter for this event.
It appears that the First Ever Cpl. Jared Shoemaker Memorial Walk will begin next year with, the Second Annual Cpl. Jared Shoemaker Memorial Walk.
These games continue each year because dedicated people make a difference. This difference was carried out this year in the name of the Cpl. Jared Shoemaker Memorial Walk. The Jared Shoemaker Memorial Walk may be over for this year, but the reason for the walk is continuing in Stillwater, OK. Giving the opportunity for those to give it their all.
The Cpl. Jared Shoemaker Memorial Walk (to benefit the Special Olympics) raised $12,000.00. In the last six hours, I have heard nothing but great praises for those who walked, gave of themselves, provided a donation, or just came to be a major supporter for this event.
It appears that the First Ever Cpl. Jared Shoemaker Memorial Walk will begin next year with, the Second Annual Cpl. Jared Shoemaker Memorial Walk.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Walking for Special Olympics
These photographs were taken by Dave Crow's Photography. His dedication to record a special event for Special Olympics is outstanding. Thank you Dave for sharing these wonderful memories of this outstanding achievement. 
They are walking towards Stillwater......
They are walking towards Stillwater......
They are going to make it for the opening ceremonies........
Dedicated. Think that says it all!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
For Special Olympics
This Monday a group of men and women began walking towards Stillwater Oklahoma to raise money for the Oklahoma Special Olympics.
This walk was named after a hometown hero, Cpl. Jared Shoemaker, USMC. Jared was also a Tulsa Police Officer. He served with distinction and honor according to Chief Dave Been.
On September 4, 2006, Cpl. Shoemaker was killed in Iraq while serving his country.
Now these individuals are honoring Jared by walking the 57 mile journey to benefit the Oklahoma Special Olympics. Serving was Jared's life long dream and there are several who have decided that the dream of service did not disappear when Jared lost his life.
You may honor Jared's journey by supporting the Special Olympics in his name. Visit www.firstgiving.com and when prompted, enter the name Comstock, JC. So far this effort has raised over $340.00.
You can make a difference by just making a donation today. Lets honor Jared together and make a difference in the life of an Oklahoma Special Olympian.
This walk was named after a hometown hero, Cpl. Jared Shoemaker, USMC. Jared was also a Tulsa Police Officer. He served with distinction and honor according to Chief Dave Been.
On September 4, 2006, Cpl. Shoemaker was killed in Iraq while serving his country.
Now these individuals are honoring Jared by walking the 57 mile journey to benefit the Oklahoma Special Olympics. Serving was Jared's life long dream and there are several who have decided that the dream of service did not disappear when Jared lost his life.
You may honor Jared's journey by supporting the Special Olympics in his name. Visit www.firstgiving.com and when prompted, enter the name Comstock, JC. So far this effort has raised over $340.00.
You can make a difference by just making a donation today. Lets honor Jared together and make a difference in the life of an Oklahoma Special Olympian.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Enjoying Washington D.C.
Tomorrow, Washington D. C. will be the place to be when the Police Unity Tour arrives. The rider participating in the Police Unity Tour are raising funds to support the National Police Memorial Week and Museum.
The Police Unity Tour started in 1997 and continues on today making a difference. Thank you for all who participate and support this effort.
The Police Unity Tour started in 1997 and continues on today making a difference. Thank you for all who participate and support this effort.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
For We Remember
National Police Week begins today. If you are a law enforcement officer, you need to see and experience this event.
National Police Week honors those brothers and sisters who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their community. They are honored by many, loved by more and they will always be remembered for their sacrifice.
National Police Week began with the Law Ride 2010 (http://www.lawride.com/). This ride began at the RFK stadium. The participants rode to the National Law Enforcement Memorial Site and placed a wreath. This was the official kick off for the National Law Enforcement Memorial Week. This is the 15th year for the Law Ride.
On Monday, they will be hosting the 31st Annual DC area Memorial Service.
Please visit the Officer Down Memorial Page, Inc. to learn about the ultimate sacrifice. http://www.odmp.org/.
Stay tuned for the list of events and see how they honor their brothers and sisters who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
You can always visit the National Memorial website at http://www.nleomf.org/ for further details.
The Oklahoma Law Enforcement Memorial. www.oklemem.com
You can also learn a bit of history by visiting the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Museum in Chandler.
National Police Week honors those brothers and sisters who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their community. They are honored by many, loved by more and they will always be remembered for their sacrifice.
National Police Week began with the Law Ride 2010 (http://www.lawride.com/). This ride began at the RFK stadium. The participants rode to the National Law Enforcement Memorial Site and placed a wreath. This was the official kick off for the National Law Enforcement Memorial Week. This is the 15th year for the Law Ride.
On Monday, they will be hosting the 31st Annual DC area Memorial Service.
Please visit the Officer Down Memorial Page, Inc. to learn about the ultimate sacrifice. http://www.odmp.org/.
Stay tuned for the list of events and see how they honor their brothers and sisters who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
You can always visit the National Memorial website at http://www.nleomf.org/ for further details.
The Oklahoma Law Enforcement Memorial. www.oklemem.com
You can also learn a bit of history by visiting the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Museum in Chandler.
Monday, May 3, 2010
A Little R & R
Well, I arrived at work on Sunday, which is my Monday. I decided that since I could not take the day off, that I would just work the day, and put in for the rest of the week off. So I sit, playing on the computer and not doing much of anything.
By the way, did you know that there is a driver who believes that even though the light is red, that if no one is coming, that you can go a head and proceed past that red light. I wonder if this will mean he is not going to pay his $200.00 fine?
So after working two collisions, one vandalism and answering some 911 hang up calls, I say that it was a full working day (10 hours) and a nice trip home.
Then I enjoyed some oriental food and some time with the family. It was wonderful.
By the way, did you know that there is a driver who believes that even though the light is red, that if no one is coming, that you can go a head and proceed past that red light. I wonder if this will mean he is not going to pay his $200.00 fine?
So after working two collisions, one vandalism and answering some 911 hang up calls, I say that it was a full working day (10 hours) and a nice trip home.
Then I enjoyed some oriental food and some time with the family. It was wonderful.
Friday, April 23, 2010
A Busy Weekend
Well, the City of Tulsa is going to be a busy place this weekend. Starting with the Quik Trip Air and Space show. There is the MS Walk at Temple Israel. At the Convention Center, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Promise Ball. At the BOK Center, The Nickleback Concert. (It has been reported that there are expecting 25,000 people to pass through the Convention Center and the BOK Center this weekend). At the baseball park, the Tulsa Drillers are playing the Springfield Cardinals.
So with all these things, there is going to be something for you to do this Saturday.
So with all these things, there is going to be something for you to do this Saturday.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Crash Day
This I guess is like D Day. Some feel that while driving on wet streets, they can drive as fast as their little (or large) car (or truck) can carry them.
I guess people just don't understand. I wonder if we explain it in some new terms some will understand?
Well, when you were young, you heard about a slip and slide. Set it up, get the garden hose, turn it on and you have a great youthful turnout for some really fun times.
This photo is mere example of the fun that you can have on a slip and slide.
I just can not understand drivers, who want to drive fast when it rains.
See, the roads are like the plastic (blue) and the people are like the cars.
I can still hear that song, "Slip Sliding Away"...etc.
The faster you go, the faster you slide. That pretty much explains Tulsa traffic during and after a rain.
They must say, "Lets see how many crashes we can have in a few minutes?
I guess people just don't understand. I wonder if we explain it in some new terms some will understand?
Well, when you were young, you heard about a slip and slide. Set it up, get the garden hose, turn it on and you have a great youthful turnout for some really fun times.
This photo is mere example of the fun that you can have on a slip and slide.
I just can not understand drivers, who want to drive fast when it rains.
See, the roads are like the plastic (blue) and the people are like the cars.
I can still hear that song, "Slip Sliding Away"...etc.
The faster you go, the faster you slide. That pretty much explains Tulsa traffic during and after a rain.
They must say, "Lets see how many crashes we can have in a few minutes?
Rock and Worship Roadshow
Well, I would have never guessed that this show was going to be what it was...I was definitely surprised by the number of youth groups in attendance. I guess what really surprised me is that we (the special events response) are so used to so much more traffic.
I forgot how youth groups travel. People arrived in groups. This arrival method was sure different that all the other concerts. I was impressed with the fact that traffic was so light. It made for a very strong deception. When I talk about the deception, I am talking about the number of individuals in attendance. The estimated crowd was 9,500. Well talking to some BOK folks, they thought that the attendance was well over 10,000.
Not bad for some Christian music groups. There are so many who do not pay attention to this type of music, they were surprised by the turnout. Maybe a new door has been open for some to listen to a different type of music.
I forgot how youth groups travel. People arrived in groups. This arrival method was sure different that all the other concerts. I was impressed with the fact that traffic was so light. It made for a very strong deception. When I talk about the deception, I am talking about the number of individuals in attendance. The estimated crowd was 9,500. Well talking to some BOK folks, they thought that the attendance was well over 10,000.
Not bad for some Christian music groups. There are so many who do not pay attention to this type of music, they were surprised by the turnout. Maybe a new door has been open for some to listen to a different type of music.
Friday, April 16, 2010
"Overtime High"
Thank you GID for calling for the employment opportunity today. (This employment opportunity is often call Overtime!)
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
The investigation continues
The investigation continued and now as a result of some very diligent work, I now know who was driving a car.....
It is just unfortunate that the family is now learning and discovering information about this tragic moment.
Lets pray for them to have the strength.....(a moment of silence, please add your own petitions).
It is just unfortunate that the family is now learning and discovering information about this tragic moment.
Lets pray for them to have the strength.....(a moment of silence, please add your own petitions).
An Artist Among Us
"Humor is the best medicine." What a statement! Another antidote is something about being able to make fun of yourself. Well, if you add these together, you then have the right potion for a humorous moment.
Within the ranks of the department, there are often the "class clown" or the artist who will draw anything to have a little fun. On my shift, we actually have two artists. One very technical artist and another one who can just whip out some funny cartoons.
This one artist is always drawing from our conversations, incidents or anything that could happen while he is around to give him inspiration to draw.One co-worker has always been the 'subject' of some very questionable cartoons. Well, he can not feel the pain anymore. The artist has now moved on to target others. As the artist creates, we can always laugh pretty long and hard about the cartoon. In one setting there can be as many as 10 drawn.
Here is just one example. Obviously, for respectful reasons, some can not be shown on a public website. But we have all the originals or at least a photo of most of them around. It does add a little of the lighter side of life.
And yes, even though I am in a chicken outfit (AKA cock fighting outfit) I still enjoy the humor. You can always be the target, you can always be offended, but if you can not laugh at yourself, with others, then you may just have a harder time in life.
Some of the other chicken outfits are just hilarious. It does make work bearable. Especially in this time of turmoil that is being created by the administration, the conflict between the council and the mess in between.
Within the ranks of the department, there are often the "class clown" or the artist who will draw anything to have a little fun. On my shift, we actually have two artists. One very technical artist and another one who can just whip out some funny cartoons.
This one artist is always drawing from our conversations, incidents or anything that could happen while he is around to give him inspiration to draw.One co-worker has always been the 'subject' of some very questionable cartoons. Well, he can not feel the pain anymore. The artist has now moved on to target others. As the artist creates, we can always laugh pretty long and hard about the cartoon. In one setting there can be as many as 10 drawn.
Here is just one example. Obviously, for respectful reasons, some can not be shown on a public website. But we have all the originals or at least a photo of most of them around. It does add a little of the lighter side of life.
And yes, even though I am in a chicken outfit (AKA cock fighting outfit) I still enjoy the humor. You can always be the target, you can always be offended, but if you can not laugh at yourself, with others, then you may just have a harder time in life.
Some of the other chicken outfits are just hilarious. It does make work bearable. Especially in this time of turmoil that is being created by the administration, the conflict between the council and the mess in between.
The Investigation Continues
The investigation continues into a Monday morning collision. The investigation obviously has been altered by the downsizing of the police department. In the past, there would have been a detective who could have followed up on the investigation. Currently, that duty is falling on the responsibility of the officers involved at the scene.
A subject attempt to flee while an officer was trying to pull him over for a traffic violation. In his attempt to flee, the suspect lost control and crashed. The vehicle left the roadway and ultimately stuck a tree.
The driver is in a local hospital in critical condition. The identity of this individual is unknown and we are trying to gain enough information to continue with the necessary charges that are now presented in this case.
I had spend the majority of the day in this tangled web.
A subject attempt to flee while an officer was trying to pull him over for a traffic violation. In his attempt to flee, the suspect lost control and crashed. The vehicle left the roadway and ultimately stuck a tree.
The driver is in a local hospital in critical condition. The identity of this individual is unknown and we are trying to gain enough information to continue with the necessary charges that are now presented in this case.
I had spend the majority of the day in this tangled web.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Reality Check
Today was a struggle for many people in the world. But no matter what your problems are, there is always someone else who seems to have it "worse".
Being behind at work and knowing that you are going to have to work some overtime is not necessarily a problem. It may just be very frustrating.
The reality is.....
Being behind at work and knowing that you are going to have to work some overtime is not necessarily a problem. It may just be very frustrating.
The reality is.....
- When you wake up, you noticed that your car is not in your driveway. You call the police and discover that they are not too concerned about your car, because they actually know where it is.
- You learned that someone took your car for a joy ride and the ride ended because of a tree.
- The police tell you that they know where your car is and its not necessarily operable.
- You realize that you don't have enough insurance to cover your vehicle.
Lets not even talk about the driver of the vehicle....
The realization is that your life is not so bad.
Thank those around you. Recognize a dedicated coworker. Be a great friend who listens.
And don't forget to be that sounding board and point out:
"The reality is...."
So be thankful to God for what you do have.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Monday
Well, for all of you out there that is thinking that it is Sunday Morning.....well, its Monday (for me).
Going to see what is going to happen today.
Going to see what is going to happen today.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Coping.....
Touring in the city often means responding to situations that are very familiar to us. But for the normal citizen, those situations do not necessarily present themselves on a daily basis.
So when a situation arises for a family and they are unsure of what happened or what to do, then a goal for the officer is to get them through the situation.
Once way to assist them to get through any situation is to tell them everything they need to expect. Sometimes it is merely just being there for them. Other times, if you can joke and get them to relax, then you can accomplish a goal of reducing their anxiety and help them through the situation.
I had that opportunity twice yesterday. To help a family cope through a very tragic experience. It was actually a situation that they knew was very possible and they actually did expect the situation. But how often are you really ready for it?
In order for them to get through the situation, you work with the family by giving them information. Information is often the comfort that they need. Knowing that they do not have to jump into a situation right a way or take care of the details immediately is nice to know. That gives them the opportunity to step back and take a breath. That moment is often needed in many family situations.
One of my colleagues said it best, driving 100 plus miles an hour (on a highway) during a pursuit. When the bad guy fired shots back at the officers, a bullet struck the windshield and then fragmented and hit him in the shoulder. The remainder of the fragments hit the seat belt, headliner and visor. As the pursuit was going on, he could be heard on his dash cam (video recorder) saying "Breath, Breath, Breath". He then would pick up the microphone and advise the dispatch of the gun going off (not knowing it hit his body) and giving continued updates about the pursuit.
It is this advise that we try to give families during these situations. To remind them to breath is an important step to grief, recovery and understanding. So remember to breath.
Another way to deal with a traumatic situation is to joke about the situation. Humor has been found to be the best medicine for many situations. But you have to remember, that humor must be appropriate.
Well, on a car crash it can be appropriate. When the wife is still sitting in the car, shaking, looking for important papers, you know she needs to relax and take a breath.
So a great way to accomplish this goal is to create a humorous line that gets them to laugh, breath and relax.
So I approached and ask the elderly woman this question, "So where is your Daddy taking you?" She stopped shaking and realized that I was talking about her husband.
She was quick to respond that they were going to their rent house to replace a door. As she gave the response she just laughed.
I then asked her if her Daddy was going to take her out to dinner for being a good daughter and assisting with the rent house. She laughed more and and said, "Yes, we are going out for hamburgers, I believe."
She was then calm enough to have found the necessary papers and was able to provide them for the collision investigation.
Before they left, they both thanked us for our kind words and making the situation a little better. The husband then shook our hands and said, "If you guys want to join us a Ron's Hamburgers, we would be glad to sit with you."
I might have had Ron's last night, but that 'hanging the door thing' might have been necessary before the trip to Ron's.
So when a situation arises for a family and they are unsure of what happened or what to do, then a goal for the officer is to get them through the situation.
Once way to assist them to get through any situation is to tell them everything they need to expect. Sometimes it is merely just being there for them. Other times, if you can joke and get them to relax, then you can accomplish a goal of reducing their anxiety and help them through the situation.
I had that opportunity twice yesterday. To help a family cope through a very tragic experience. It was actually a situation that they knew was very possible and they actually did expect the situation. But how often are you really ready for it?
In order for them to get through the situation, you work with the family by giving them information. Information is often the comfort that they need. Knowing that they do not have to jump into a situation right a way or take care of the details immediately is nice to know. That gives them the opportunity to step back and take a breath. That moment is often needed in many family situations.
One of my colleagues said it best, driving 100 plus miles an hour (on a highway) during a pursuit. When the bad guy fired shots back at the officers, a bullet struck the windshield and then fragmented and hit him in the shoulder. The remainder of the fragments hit the seat belt, headliner and visor. As the pursuit was going on, he could be heard on his dash cam (video recorder) saying "Breath, Breath, Breath". He then would pick up the microphone and advise the dispatch of the gun going off (not knowing it hit his body) and giving continued updates about the pursuit.
It is this advise that we try to give families during these situations. To remind them to breath is an important step to grief, recovery and understanding. So remember to breath.
Another way to deal with a traumatic situation is to joke about the situation. Humor has been found to be the best medicine for many situations. But you have to remember, that humor must be appropriate.
Well, on a car crash it can be appropriate. When the wife is still sitting in the car, shaking, looking for important papers, you know she needs to relax and take a breath.
So a great way to accomplish this goal is to create a humorous line that gets them to laugh, breath and relax.
So I approached and ask the elderly woman this question, "So where is your Daddy taking you?" She stopped shaking and realized that I was talking about her husband.
She was quick to respond that they were going to their rent house to replace a door. As she gave the response she just laughed.
I then asked her if her Daddy was going to take her out to dinner for being a good daughter and assisting with the rent house. She laughed more and and said, "Yes, we are going out for hamburgers, I believe."
She was then calm enough to have found the necessary papers and was able to provide them for the collision investigation.
Before they left, they both thanked us for our kind words and making the situation a little better. The husband then shook our hands and said, "If you guys want to join us a Ron's Hamburgers, we would be glad to sit with you."
I might have had Ron's last night, but that 'hanging the door thing' might have been necessary before the trip to Ron's.
Monday, April 5, 2010
The question was asked and answered
The question has been asked an answered. Do you think that the Tulsa Police Departments Citizen Survey expresses your belief?
Go to:
http://www.tulsapolice.org/documents/CitizenSurvey2010.pdf
Go to:
http://www.tulsapolice.org/documents/CitizenSurvey2010.pdf
Great Spirits
Today, I had the wonderful experience to stop and talk to an individual who was stopped on the side of the road.
As I was inquiring about they why (she was stopped on the side of the road) I learned a great deal. This individual is going back to school to attain her nursing degree. She picked TCC for convenience and affordability.
I then got to ask why she was on the side of the road. She started off with a really great story. She said that she was excited because her afternoon classes had been cancelled and that once she finished her morning classes, she could go home and enjoy her day.
There were some very interesting obstacles though, that existed for her today. The first one was the fact that she is driving an older car. The second one is that the older car does not have an operating fuel gage. The third obstacle was the fact that she left all her credit card and cash at home. She thought she had enough fuel and therefore decided to not bring those items, because they were "not needed".
But her calculations or the lack thereof caused her to be slightly off on the usage of fuel in her Ford Fairmont. She ran out of fuel not long after leaving, with excitement, from TCC.
She quickly realized the fact of no cash, no debit card, and no credit card. Well, she thought that she could just get a ride home and get the wallet and then return to purchase fuel and drive home.
Next problem. While looking for her house keys, she realized that they were also in a safe place. This safe place was at home next to the wallet. So there was no need to go home for she could not get into the house.
So the next option was to call or text people to see if they could help. She was just waiting for people to arrive. Then the next problem got in her way. She also gave the wrong street, so the first person to come and help had a short amount of time that they could help. Well that was utilized in searching the area for the broken down car. So off to work he went when he could not find her and the car.
She laughed a little and she even laughed at my horrible jokes. So she just decided to stay, sit in her car and listen to music. Then she began to take her idle time and become productive. She found a bag and started to clean her car.
I don't think I have ever ran into someone who was smiling, joking and having a great time, even though they ran out of gas.
It was really nice talking to her. She was upbeat and happy, even though she was stuck on the side of the road.
She did tell me that she was a little unhappy with all the people who just drove by.
As I was inquiring about they why (she was stopped on the side of the road) I learned a great deal. This individual is going back to school to attain her nursing degree. She picked TCC for convenience and affordability.
I then got to ask why she was on the side of the road. She started off with a really great story. She said that she was excited because her afternoon classes had been cancelled and that once she finished her morning classes, she could go home and enjoy her day.
There were some very interesting obstacles though, that existed for her today. The first one was the fact that she is driving an older car. The second one is that the older car does not have an operating fuel gage. The third obstacle was the fact that she left all her credit card and cash at home. She thought she had enough fuel and therefore decided to not bring those items, because they were "not needed".
But her calculations or the lack thereof caused her to be slightly off on the usage of fuel in her Ford Fairmont. She ran out of fuel not long after leaving, with excitement, from TCC.
She quickly realized the fact of no cash, no debit card, and no credit card. Well, she thought that she could just get a ride home and get the wallet and then return to purchase fuel and drive home.
Next problem. While looking for her house keys, she realized that they were also in a safe place. This safe place was at home next to the wallet. So there was no need to go home for she could not get into the house.
So the next option was to call or text people to see if they could help. She was just waiting for people to arrive. Then the next problem got in her way. She also gave the wrong street, so the first person to come and help had a short amount of time that they could help. Well that was utilized in searching the area for the broken down car. So off to work he went when he could not find her and the car.
She laughed a little and she even laughed at my horrible jokes. So she just decided to stay, sit in her car and listen to music. Then she began to take her idle time and become productive. She found a bag and started to clean her car.
I don't think I have ever ran into someone who was smiling, joking and having a great time, even though they ran out of gas.
It was really nice talking to her. She was upbeat and happy, even though she was stuck on the side of the road.
She did tell me that she was a little unhappy with all the people who just drove by.
Multiple Monday
Multiple Monday....
It was one of those Monday's in which one wondered why there are so many people stealing. A local store at a local mall called in twice today.
The first call was in reference to a larceny suspect. This was not a first time offender. This offender has already received a felony conviction for stealing from a retailer on multiple occasions. So today, she was able to make another trip to the David L. Moss Correctional Facility (also know as the Tulsa County Jail). She was really surprised when she was told that her bond was $4,000.00. She was absolutely shocked about this revelation.
While we were there attempting to process the paper work, I was able to watch, as a young 16 year old stole some panties. She started to put one pair on in the store, but hesitated and then went into the dressing room. Of course on video you can see her select two pairs of panties, and one outfit. She came out with one outfit and no panties.
After being stopped, by the store security, she attempted to deny any theft. The boyfriend was quick to point out that one pair was in the sack. The sack that he carried out of the store, knowing there was some merchandise that had been taken. He was quick to turn the back over to store officials. However, she was wearing a dress that made it virtually obvious that she had taken the panties. I wonder if she learned to be a better thief or not to do it.
So off on my little trip to the David L. Moss Correctional Facility, with the first felony. Paperwork all finished, she was accepted quickly into the jail.
Upon leaving, guess what? Called back to the same store for another shoplifter in custody. Four really different people, four different responses and two different outcomes (citations vs. arrest).
I wonder what Tuesday will bring and I wonder if I can come up with a catchy title?
It was one of those Monday's in which one wondered why there are so many people stealing. A local store at a local mall called in twice today.
The first call was in reference to a larceny suspect. This was not a first time offender. This offender has already received a felony conviction for stealing from a retailer on multiple occasions. So today, she was able to make another trip to the David L. Moss Correctional Facility (also know as the Tulsa County Jail). She was really surprised when she was told that her bond was $4,000.00. She was absolutely shocked about this revelation.
While we were there attempting to process the paper work, I was able to watch, as a young 16 year old stole some panties. She started to put one pair on in the store, but hesitated and then went into the dressing room. Of course on video you can see her select two pairs of panties, and one outfit. She came out with one outfit and no panties.
After being stopped, by the store security, she attempted to deny any theft. The boyfriend was quick to point out that one pair was in the sack. The sack that he carried out of the store, knowing there was some merchandise that had been taken. He was quick to turn the back over to store officials. However, she was wearing a dress that made it virtually obvious that she had taken the panties. I wonder if she learned to be a better thief or not to do it.
So off on my little trip to the David L. Moss Correctional Facility, with the first felony. Paperwork all finished, she was accepted quickly into the jail.
Upon leaving, guess what? Called back to the same store for another shoplifter in custody. Four really different people, four different responses and two different outcomes (citations vs. arrest).
I wonder what Tuesday will bring and I wonder if I can come up with a catchy title?
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday
A time of rejoice. A time of reflection. A time of family, forgiveness and love. It is a time that people should know that Christ's life was important. It is a time of transformation.
The question is then raised, why on a police blog would someone write about religion. Well, if it were not for free speech, I would not be going there, in the religious halls. But today, while many people were celebrating Christ's resurrection, there were some celebrating their own efforts.
This effort was the right to protest a church. The right to stand on a street corner and subject their belief's on others. Now don't get me wrong, I do believe that everyone should have the ability to stage a protest. It should be peaceful and respectful. Even though you are protesting someone elses actions, you should provide respect.
So I decided to inquire why one church or congregation would protest another congregation. In order to discover the reasons, you must talk with the protesters.
I was quite surprised that they were willing to speak to the authority figure. They were very interested in knowing their limits, what actions they could take and what would happen if they did not follow directions.
They then informed me of why they were there protesting another church. It was all about the literal Bible. They believed that there are false prophets and that this particular church was about false prophets and not following the Bibles instructions.
See, in their minds, the teaching of Christ is left to those who are commanded to teach. It is all about men. And this particular church allowed women to stand and speak. What a shock.
I wonder if they have looked around at other denominations? Have they seen women priests, ministers and pastors? So why this church? Well, the answer was more illusive than I thought. So I guess that is why I am pondering this point.
There is some measure of understanding of hospitality. Even when your enemy comes forth, there are those who believe that hospitality is important.
So this church that was being protested was very hospitable. They took the time to locate a spot for the protesters (even though they refused). It was like giving them a home. They even went as far as providing snacks, coffee or water.
So I guess I would ask, so what church would you attend? The one that was very hospitable, offering a place to stand, food and drink or the one who stood with signs that said nothing about the protested church, but spoke of doom and gloom (blaming God for 911).
With two officers working in one squad, you could say that we were a little busy. To put it in perspective, there was a suspicious person call, a missing person, alarm calls, open doors, disturbance calls, a fight and a couple of shoplifters.
To top it off, an officer handcuffed an individual for transport. Upon arriving at their destination, he tried to remove the handcuff''s that are at least 25 years old. The handcuff had to be cut off this individual.
So another equipment malfunction. I have a friend that would merely respond, "That's low bid for you!"
Gooday.
The question is then raised, why on a police blog would someone write about religion. Well, if it were not for free speech, I would not be going there, in the religious halls. But today, while many people were celebrating Christ's resurrection, there were some celebrating their own efforts.
This effort was the right to protest a church. The right to stand on a street corner and subject their belief's on others. Now don't get me wrong, I do believe that everyone should have the ability to stage a protest. It should be peaceful and respectful. Even though you are protesting someone elses actions, you should provide respect.
So I decided to inquire why one church or congregation would protest another congregation. In order to discover the reasons, you must talk with the protesters.
I was quite surprised that they were willing to speak to the authority figure. They were very interested in knowing their limits, what actions they could take and what would happen if they did not follow directions.
They then informed me of why they were there protesting another church. It was all about the literal Bible. They believed that there are false prophets and that this particular church was about false prophets and not following the Bibles instructions.
See, in their minds, the teaching of Christ is left to those who are commanded to teach. It is all about men. And this particular church allowed women to stand and speak. What a shock.
I wonder if they have looked around at other denominations? Have they seen women priests, ministers and pastors? So why this church? Well, the answer was more illusive than I thought. So I guess that is why I am pondering this point.
There is some measure of understanding of hospitality. Even when your enemy comes forth, there are those who believe that hospitality is important.
So this church that was being protested was very hospitable. They took the time to locate a spot for the protesters (even though they refused). It was like giving them a home. They even went as far as providing snacks, coffee or water.
So I guess I would ask, so what church would you attend? The one that was very hospitable, offering a place to stand, food and drink or the one who stood with signs that said nothing about the protested church, but spoke of doom and gloom (blaming God for 911).
With two officers working in one squad, you could say that we were a little busy. To put it in perspective, there was a suspicious person call, a missing person, alarm calls, open doors, disturbance calls, a fight and a couple of shoplifters.
To top it off, an officer handcuffed an individual for transport. Upon arriving at their destination, he tried to remove the handcuff''s that are at least 25 years old. The handcuff had to be cut off this individual.
So another equipment malfunction. I have a friend that would merely respond, "That's low bid for you!"
Gooday.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Humor?
I have to laugh at my father. This week he made a comment about all the police motorcycle officers working radar on South Sheridan Road.
As he was commenting about how everyone was passing him, he was pondering how many citations would be written for speeding.
Then he made the comment: "They are not speeding, they are merely seeing how fast their car can still go".
It also goes along with a comment on another website. The police officer says to the woman, you are the one who have I been waiting for all day. Her response, "Well, I tried to get here as fast as I could so you wouldn't have to wait all day."
As he was commenting about how everyone was passing him, he was pondering how many citations would be written for speeding.
Then he made the comment: "They are not speeding, they are merely seeing how fast their car can still go".
It also goes along with a comment on another website. The police officer says to the woman, you are the one who have I been waiting for all day. Her response, "Well, I tried to get here as fast as I could so you wouldn't have to wait all day."
Sunday, March 28, 2010
What a Beautiful Day
This morning started out a little chilly than some had expected, but you could tell Spring was in the air. You can also tell that it is getting very close to the full moon. For those who are not sure about the full moon, just ask any LEO, State Trooper, Fed, Medical Personnel, or Social Scientist. They will confirm for you the notion that the full moon really does have an affect.
The events for today were very full, but one that was very interesting was the fact that someone called 911 to report a found backpack. While they did discover the backpack, they also discovered that someone bled all over their home, the vehicles and all over the driveway.
I guess that it did not occur to them that the door bell ringing, during the night might have been a clue. A second clue was the fact that Tulsa Fire and EMSA were also right out front during the night.
It was just a mere oversight on their part to put two and two together. But someone was riding home on their bicycle when they went out. See a diabetic must maintain his insilin or they will become loopier than a normal drunk. They will fall, cut themselves or hurt themselves in many other ways.
This was just the case. As I was returning the backpack, the individual stated that there was no memory of the night, where he left his bike or backpack. When I arrived with the backpack, the excitement level raised several points.
I guess when you black out and remember something about an ambulance, it must be difficult. I know that when they stated, "I woke up in the hospital, I knew something was not right, but I am not sure where I was at, where I was going, or what I was doing."
Our discussion then lead to the point of remembering to take medication, even though you may fell 100%. Keep to the regiment. Its gonna be important.
I guess I was in the teaching mood. Because on another call, it was obvious that this young girl wanted to please her mother, but she also did not want to upset the boyfriend.
Now you would say, that does not sound out of place. Well, it does if the boyfriend is one who hits, pulls hair, pushes and is a mean brute.
It is either time to walk away or step up to the plate and make sure that he goes to jail.
I wonder how long it will be before she is back with him?
If I were a betting man, I might be a little more apt to say, "she's already back with him."
Good day......
The events for today were very full, but one that was very interesting was the fact that someone called 911 to report a found backpack. While they did discover the backpack, they also discovered that someone bled all over their home, the vehicles and all over the driveway.
I guess that it did not occur to them that the door bell ringing, during the night might have been a clue. A second clue was the fact that Tulsa Fire and EMSA were also right out front during the night.
It was just a mere oversight on their part to put two and two together. But someone was riding home on their bicycle when they went out. See a diabetic must maintain his insilin or they will become loopier than a normal drunk. They will fall, cut themselves or hurt themselves in many other ways.
This was just the case. As I was returning the backpack, the individual stated that there was no memory of the night, where he left his bike or backpack. When I arrived with the backpack, the excitement level raised several points.
I guess when you black out and remember something about an ambulance, it must be difficult. I know that when they stated, "I woke up in the hospital, I knew something was not right, but I am not sure where I was at, where I was going, or what I was doing."
Our discussion then lead to the point of remembering to take medication, even though you may fell 100%. Keep to the regiment. Its gonna be important.
I guess I was in the teaching mood. Because on another call, it was obvious that this young girl wanted to please her mother, but she also did not want to upset the boyfriend.
Now you would say, that does not sound out of place. Well, it does if the boyfriend is one who hits, pulls hair, pushes and is a mean brute.
It is either time to walk away or step up to the plate and make sure that he goes to jail.
I wonder how long it will be before she is back with him?
If I were a betting man, I might be a little more apt to say, "she's already back with him."
Good day......
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Still Needing Assistance
We have received one call from an individual who thought that their vehicle may have been used in the collision. So we are looking into that possibility, but with the information that was provided, it is not likely that this is going to pan out.
We still need public assistance in locating this vehicle. We are looking for a white smaller truck in the mid 80's-90's.
If you have seen this truck or know something about this collision, please contact Crime Stoppers, 918-596-COPS.
We still need public assistance in locating this vehicle. We are looking for a white smaller truck in the mid 80's-90's.
If you have seen this truck or know something about this collision, please contact Crime Stoppers, 918-596-COPS.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Hit and Run Fatality on US 169
The information that we have received over the last two days has provided us with this information.
According to a witness, this may be the suspect vehicle in the hit and run that occurred on US 169 on Saturday afternoon. It is a 90's model Isuzu Pup pickup.
I would like to thank Isuzu for providing us a picture of this vehicle. They were very helpful in tyring to provide a picture that would give us the best opportunity to locate the vehicle.
If you have seen this truck or know any information, please call Crime Stoppers at 918-596-COPS.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Fatality on US 169
It has been a while since my last posting. I sure need to get involved in this blog thing. It could be a great community helper.
Speaking of helping the community. There is a gentleman that could use your help. I can only reveal a few details, but this man, I am sure, served his country with honors.
Today, while riding his motor bike on US 169, he was approaching the congested area of construction that is just south of I 244.
As he slowed for traffic and came to a stop, someone hit him from behind. The rider was forced to the ground and ultimately died from his massive injuries from this collision.
The really sad part, the driver who struck this vehicle left the scene. This driver just ignorned all logic and understanding and drove away from the scene. Yes I am sure this person was scared, but one should bear responsibility and answer to their problem.
This vehicle was a light colored vehicle. White paint was found at the scene, along with some vehicle parts.
What I need is your help. If you were on US 169 today around 2:00 pm and you think that you might have seen something like this, please call crime stoppers 596-COPS and report what you saw.
We need to find this driver and help the family find closure (like that is possible).
Remember this is important. I got to speak to a family member today because I had to tell them this horrible news. I was afraid that I was going to need an ambulance for this individual. He was devastated.
Please help, if you can........
Crash was on US 169 in the 300 block south.
Speaking of helping the community. There is a gentleman that could use your help. I can only reveal a few details, but this man, I am sure, served his country with honors.
Today, while riding his motor bike on US 169, he was approaching the congested area of construction that is just south of I 244.
As he slowed for traffic and came to a stop, someone hit him from behind. The rider was forced to the ground and ultimately died from his massive injuries from this collision.
The really sad part, the driver who struck this vehicle left the scene. This driver just ignorned all logic and understanding and drove away from the scene. Yes I am sure this person was scared, but one should bear responsibility and answer to their problem.
This vehicle was a light colored vehicle. White paint was found at the scene, along with some vehicle parts.
What I need is your help. If you were on US 169 today around 2:00 pm and you think that you might have seen something like this, please call crime stoppers 596-COPS and report what you saw.
We need to find this driver and help the family find closure (like that is possible).
Remember this is important. I got to speak to a family member today because I had to tell them this horrible news. I was afraid that I was going to need an ambulance for this individual. He was devastated.
Please help, if you can........
Crash was on US 169 in the 300 block south.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
From a Co Worker about his layoff
From Andrew, what I consider a fellow GREEN SHIRT!
Andrew Dawson wrote:
As I sit here writing this, it is with mixed emotions. On the one hand, I am relieved to finally be done with what can only be explained as a roller coaster ride. For the past 2 months, I have come to work every night not knowing if I would have a job the next day. Despite this, myself and the Officers I work with have done our best to keep our heads high while working to ensure that the innocent are kept safe and that we all come home safely at the end of the night. We do this because that’s the job. We do this because if we don’t look out for each other out there, no one else will. It has been an emotional drain given the circumstances, but we have done it. For this reason, I am relieved to finally have some closure. On the other hand, I am broken inside. I am broken because over the past 3 years I have experienced things that the average person will likely never experience. I have entered buildings after hearing shots fired inside, all the while knowing that I’m going to come out ok because myself and the Officers at my side are going to do what has to be done to make sure we all go home to our families. I know without asking that as I enter a dark room looking for the bad-guy, my partner’s gun is trained on the dark hallway ahead of us, ever vigilant of the unseen danger. This is a trust and a bond that is difficult to explain to those who haven’t experienced it.... See More
Another emotion that I am feeling is disgust. I am disgusted at the way Officers and the futures of their families have been traded and bartered like cheap baseball cards by our Mayor. I am disgusted by the fact that I found out I was being laid off through the media. I am disgusted by the fact that my Chief found out that he was “resigning” through the media. I am disgusted by the spinelessness of a Mayor elected to notify us this way rather than by facing us and delivering the news personally. I am disgusted by the way our Mayor has forced us to choose between altering the lives of the senior Officers forever, or ending the careers of 158 younger Officers.
As for the “option” given by the Mayor to “avoid layoffs,” for me it was no option. For those of you who are reading this and do not know the details of his proposal, here it is. The Mayor attempted to sell this to the media as a 5% pay cut with some concessions. However, those concessions were more furlough days, no salary step increases, the loss of the few benefits we have left, and loss of the right to negotiate for 2 years. All and all, when one takes in to account the furlough days that we have already taken this fiscal year, the total pay cut falls between 15-20% depending on how long the Officer has been employed. On top of this, the Mayor refused to guarantee that if we took this deal, he would not turn around and lay us off anyway. I am in the bottom 155 Officers and last night I voted to lay myself off. I did this because I could not in good conscience vote for a 20% decrease in the salaries of many Officers with large families who I know could not afford it. Also, our pension system is based on our average salaries towards the end of our careers. This means that if we were to have taken this cut, the Officers who are near retirement would take a substantial hit in the pension that they require to survive after they retire. I will move on and I will do what I have to do to provide for my wife and I. I will be ok. I have no doubt that there will be many departments who will recognize what we have to offer. For those who voted otherwise please do not get me wrong, I am by no means saying that everyone should have voted this way. I voted my heart and I have no doubt that you did as well and that is all that can be asked.... See More
To my brothers and sisters who are reading this, it has been an honor working with you and it is difficult for me to imagine what next week will be like without you. You and your families will be in my prayers. In just a few hours many of us will report for our last night as Tulsa Police Officers and until the end of the shift, it will be business as usual. We will take calls and we will chase bad guys. When someone calls 911 screaming for help, we will generate complaint calls getting there as fast as we can. And when we get there, we will rush to protect someone who cannot protect themselves… with our lives if need be.
I love you guys
-J345
“You’re a cop because you don’t know how not to be one. If you feel this way, you’re a cop. If you don’t, you’re not.”
Andrew Dawson wrote:
As I sit here writing this, it is with mixed emotions. On the one hand, I am relieved to finally be done with what can only be explained as a roller coaster ride. For the past 2 months, I have come to work every night not knowing if I would have a job the next day. Despite this, myself and the Officers I work with have done our best to keep our heads high while working to ensure that the innocent are kept safe and that we all come home safely at the end of the night. We do this because that’s the job. We do this because if we don’t look out for each other out there, no one else will. It has been an emotional drain given the circumstances, but we have done it. For this reason, I am relieved to finally have some closure. On the other hand, I am broken inside. I am broken because over the past 3 years I have experienced things that the average person will likely never experience. I have entered buildings after hearing shots fired inside, all the while knowing that I’m going to come out ok because myself and the Officers at my side are going to do what has to be done to make sure we all go home to our families. I know without asking that as I enter a dark room looking for the bad-guy, my partner’s gun is trained on the dark hallway ahead of us, ever vigilant of the unseen danger. This is a trust and a bond that is difficult to explain to those who haven’t experienced it.... See More
Another emotion that I am feeling is disgust. I am disgusted at the way Officers and the futures of their families have been traded and bartered like cheap baseball cards by our Mayor. I am disgusted by the fact that I found out I was being laid off through the media. I am disgusted by the fact that my Chief found out that he was “resigning” through the media. I am disgusted by the spinelessness of a Mayor elected to notify us this way rather than by facing us and delivering the news personally. I am disgusted by the way our Mayor has forced us to choose between altering the lives of the senior Officers forever, or ending the careers of 158 younger Officers.
As for the “option” given by the Mayor to “avoid layoffs,” for me it was no option. For those of you who are reading this and do not know the details of his proposal, here it is. The Mayor attempted to sell this to the media as a 5% pay cut with some concessions. However, those concessions were more furlough days, no salary step increases, the loss of the few benefits we have left, and loss of the right to negotiate for 2 years. All and all, when one takes in to account the furlough days that we have already taken this fiscal year, the total pay cut falls between 15-20% depending on how long the Officer has been employed. On top of this, the Mayor refused to guarantee that if we took this deal, he would not turn around and lay us off anyway. I am in the bottom 155 Officers and last night I voted to lay myself off. I did this because I could not in good conscience vote for a 20% decrease in the salaries of many Officers with large families who I know could not afford it. Also, our pension system is based on our average salaries towards the end of our careers. This means that if we were to have taken this cut, the Officers who are near retirement would take a substantial hit in the pension that they require to survive after they retire. I will move on and I will do what I have to do to provide for my wife and I. I will be ok. I have no doubt that there will be many departments who will recognize what we have to offer. For those who voted otherwise please do not get me wrong, I am by no means saying that everyone should have voted this way. I voted my heart and I have no doubt that you did as well and that is all that can be asked.... See More
To my brothers and sisters who are reading this, it has been an honor working with you and it is difficult for me to imagine what next week will be like without you. You and your families will be in my prayers. In just a few hours many of us will report for our last night as Tulsa Police Officers and until the end of the shift, it will be business as usual. We will take calls and we will chase bad guys. When someone calls 911 screaming for help, we will generate complaint calls getting there as fast as we can. And when we get there, we will rush to protect someone who cannot protect themselves… with our lives if need be.
I love you guys
-J345
“You’re a cop because you don’t know how not to be one. If you feel this way, you’re a cop. If you don’t, you’re not.”
Monday, January 18, 2010
MLK Jr.
I have always thought that the MLK Jr. Parade is something to celebrate. I have thought that it is important to remember this man on a day when people can celebrate his vision.
I don't believe that his vision included knuckleheads.
I was not surprised again this year when the youth arrived at the parade. Same thing, different day. Walk up, threaten to fight, pull out a gun and show it to others and make threats. Start a fight and have police from all over the city respond.
The response was apparently needed to the youth would not congregate and start fights or trouble.
More on MLK later.
I don't believe that his vision included knuckleheads.
I was not surprised again this year when the youth arrived at the parade. Same thing, different day. Walk up, threaten to fight, pull out a gun and show it to others and make threats. Start a fight and have police from all over the city respond.
The response was apparently needed to the youth would not congregate and start fights or trouble.
More on MLK later.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Is It Management?
Well, I have not posted on this blog in some time now. I have often wondered why. I have so much to say that it seems quite impossible to determine the reason for my lack of commitment.
As you can tell from my last post, I began speaking about the need to know and understand personal safety. Well not much has changed. As a citizen of the City of Tulsa or one of its visitors, one must be knowledgable about personal safety.
Over the last few weeks, you have heard of talks about layoffs, "bump downs", and pay cuts. They Mayors office has been very good about vocalizing the need for the unions to reduce their pay. The Mayor has provided options for the unions and he has set a deadline for a decision.
What really gigs me right now is that we, the citizenry of Tulsa elected an individual who claimed that he wanted to be our Mayor for the next few years. This individual stated that he had all the leadership skills he needed to run the City of Tulsa. This individual claimed that he knew the answers or at least knew what needed to be done to make our wonderful city a great place to reside, work and play.
I could spend some time looking at campaign promises. I could spend some time looking at scheduled events where speeches were made. I could spend some time on many things that will only produce the history of the election. George Santayana put it best, "Those who can not remember the past are condemned to repeat it."
As I sit and listen to interviews and read newspaper articles, I find myself wondering how did we elect this individual who claimed that he had the business knowledge to run the City of Tulsa?
Mayor Bartlett has asked for recommendations from the police and fire chiefs. Mayor Bartlett stated that he had his own plan on cost saving measures. Mayor Bartlett receives those cost saving measures from the police and fire chief's. Mayor Bartlett does not like those cost savings measures.
So Mayor Bartlett goes to the police and fire unions. Mayor Bartlett openly speaks in front of both groups. Mayor Bartlett speaks hoping not to be sued if his plans take effect. Mayor Bartlett says many things in each meeting. But Mayor Bartlett also stands silent on the solution to the problems.
Here is where we get to the beginning. I am a cadidate that has the business savy to make Tulsa.
I just sat and listened to the Mayor speak. Mayor Bartlett came right out front and said that he had not read the collective bargaining unit agreement with the City of Tulsa & the FOP. Mayor Bartlett admitted that he had no idea what the document contained. Mayor Bartlett had very little knowledge of the Fire and Police Arbitration Act (FPAA). Mayor Bartlett spent a majority of the time speaking about what he did not know. I was shocked. I know previous Mayors who made sure they knew what the FPAA was and what was contained in the collective bargaining agreement.
This is a man, while running for office said he knew how to operate an office. But how can you operate an office if you do not understand the keystone of the collective bargaing? How can you operate an office if you do not know the key points in an agreement with a group of individuals who can make or break you? How can you operate an office without understanding contracts?
Mayor Bartlett says he came up with a plan. It took months to develop that plan. And yet he is only willing to allow the fire fighters and FOP one week to consider the plan.
Mayor Bartlett now sits in the glass house and speaks about his plan. Mayor Bartlett speaks about how the brotherhood and sisterhood will save the city. Mayor Bartlett is pulling the strings of the citizens of Tulsa and the surrounding area. Mayor Bartlett is speaking to the people and saying, that they can save themselves.
This is no more than Salem Witch trials. Take a woman who was accused of witchcraft. Tie her up. Add a few bricks and toss her in the water. A witch would be able to save themselves. How many times did the poor innocent people die? Too often. But the premise was they have the power to save themselves.
I am not sure about you, but this logic really pisses me off. When people voted for Mayor Bartlett, they wanted a leader. They looked at him and noticed that he was saying things like having the experience needed to run the city. Well, have you noticed that he is not running the city? Have you noticed that he is not accomplishing the task in which the majority voted.
I would hope that the Mayor of the City of Tulsa would be able to make decisions. Tough decisions about how to run this city. Mayor Bartlett was handed a large deficit and was told by the voters to fix it. After all, he stated that he had the knowledge the business savy to fix it.
But where is Mayor Bartlett. Hiding behind the sympathy of all the citizens who have been laid off. Hiding behind all those citizens who have had a pay reduction. Hiding behind the decision that he should be making.
Well, if Mayor Bartlett is wanting the fire fighters local and the FOP to make this important decision for him, I think that he should remove his Chief of Staff. Remove all those he hired to assist him in running the City of Tulsa.
Move over all, because the Mayor of the City of Tulsa has just asked the FOP and the Fire Fighters Local to run the City. These two groups have been asked to make a worth while contribution to the City of Tulsa.
I have heard the citizens of Tulsa speak about how unions have destroyed the economy. I have heard them say that the unions are the ones breaking the systems. I have heard nothing but evil when it comes to unions.
Well, if the FOP is the Union, then this collective bargaining unit deserves praise. The men and women who have participated on the negotiations team should, without a doubt, receive an wonderful standing ovation from all the citizens of Tulsa.
Because the FOP has not just negotiated contract provisions for the employees, they have made the work of public safety a priority. This priority has provided provisions that have made it safer for officers to patrol the streets. This priority has provided for tools that make working the streets safer. These tools are used to make Tulsa a great place to live and the FOP has made it happen on many occasions.
The young officers may not know what this all means. The old officer may also not know what this all means. But it is the members of the FOP who faught for a change in working conditions. When these changes were made, it often provided for greater safety for the officers. This safety for the officer spelled out safety for the citizens.
It was the FOP who negotiated education pay. This was the beginning of the recognition that an educated officer is one who provides better leadership. This lead to what has often been called as a higher class of officers. I have heard many say the more education an officer has, the better he is prepared to make the decsions that are needed.
It was the FOP who negotiated the protective vests (often called bullet proof vests). It was their negotiations that provide for vest replacements every five years (the life of that vest). It was based on this premise that replacing the vest would provide for a safer environment for the officers. Keeping officers alive means keeping bad guys off the streets.
I am sure that I could spend many hours on how those men and women have written proposals that have made the job safer. It is not always about compensation. It is about foreseeing the need and requesting the City to provide. I think that many do not understand the issues of why the FOP contract and the fire fighters contracts are so important. But if you really spend some time and find out why those provisions are in place, then you find out why the contract is so important.
So we are back to the basic question.
So if the Mayor of the City of Tulsa can not make a decision, why is he Mayor?
Oh yes, we are back to the shrinking behind sympathy. If a police officer was trying to hide, he would be a coward. Being a coward could get you fired. As you see, a police officer is often out then taking the abuse. Spreading the word of why this is so bad. And we are not the only ones. The firemen are out there too.
Come on Mayor Bartlett, grow the balls, so you can make the decision that the Citizens of Tulsa wanted you to make. Run this city like you said you would in your campaign speeches.
Then sit down and have employee meetings to describe how bad this all is and that we need to find ways to make it work.
Oh, by the way, the FOP once again offered to save some cash. By working on Compensatory Time only, the city could have a short term fix of half the money you are needing to save. It was offered under the last Mayor. It should be a consideration for you too. Because even when you look at us and say this is a short term fix and I don't like that proposal, wake up. Your idea to save money is also a short term fix. So what is the difference between the two? Oh right, you did not have anything to do with coming up with short term fix. It was the negotiations team of the FOP!
Mayor Bartlett, if you are afraid of scare tactics, then you might actually be afraid of the criminals who are going to take on this city. They are going to make it their employment grounds a place of opportunity for gain (money, drugs, etc).
As you can tell from my last post, I began speaking about the need to know and understand personal safety. Well not much has changed. As a citizen of the City of Tulsa or one of its visitors, one must be knowledgable about personal safety.
Over the last few weeks, you have heard of talks about layoffs, "bump downs", and pay cuts. They Mayors office has been very good about vocalizing the need for the unions to reduce their pay. The Mayor has provided options for the unions and he has set a deadline for a decision.
What really gigs me right now is that we, the citizenry of Tulsa elected an individual who claimed that he wanted to be our Mayor for the next few years. This individual stated that he had all the leadership skills he needed to run the City of Tulsa. This individual claimed that he knew the answers or at least knew what needed to be done to make our wonderful city a great place to reside, work and play.
I could spend some time looking at campaign promises. I could spend some time looking at scheduled events where speeches were made. I could spend some time on many things that will only produce the history of the election. George Santayana put it best, "Those who can not remember the past are condemned to repeat it."
As I sit and listen to interviews and read newspaper articles, I find myself wondering how did we elect this individual who claimed that he had the business knowledge to run the City of Tulsa?
Mayor Bartlett has asked for recommendations from the police and fire chiefs. Mayor Bartlett stated that he had his own plan on cost saving measures. Mayor Bartlett receives those cost saving measures from the police and fire chief's. Mayor Bartlett does not like those cost savings measures.
So Mayor Bartlett goes to the police and fire unions. Mayor Bartlett openly speaks in front of both groups. Mayor Bartlett speaks hoping not to be sued if his plans take effect. Mayor Bartlett says many things in each meeting. But Mayor Bartlett also stands silent on the solution to the problems.
Here is where we get to the beginning. I am a cadidate that has the business savy to make Tulsa.
I just sat and listened to the Mayor speak. Mayor Bartlett came right out front and said that he had not read the collective bargaining unit agreement with the City of Tulsa & the FOP. Mayor Bartlett admitted that he had no idea what the document contained. Mayor Bartlett had very little knowledge of the Fire and Police Arbitration Act (FPAA). Mayor Bartlett spent a majority of the time speaking about what he did not know. I was shocked. I know previous Mayors who made sure they knew what the FPAA was and what was contained in the collective bargaining agreement.
This is a man, while running for office said he knew how to operate an office. But how can you operate an office if you do not understand the keystone of the collective bargaing? How can you operate an office if you do not know the key points in an agreement with a group of individuals who can make or break you? How can you operate an office without understanding contracts?
Mayor Bartlett says he came up with a plan. It took months to develop that plan. And yet he is only willing to allow the fire fighters and FOP one week to consider the plan.
Mayor Bartlett now sits in the glass house and speaks about his plan. Mayor Bartlett speaks about how the brotherhood and sisterhood will save the city. Mayor Bartlett is pulling the strings of the citizens of Tulsa and the surrounding area. Mayor Bartlett is speaking to the people and saying, that they can save themselves.
This is no more than Salem Witch trials. Take a woman who was accused of witchcraft. Tie her up. Add a few bricks and toss her in the water. A witch would be able to save themselves. How many times did the poor innocent people die? Too often. But the premise was they have the power to save themselves.
I am not sure about you, but this logic really pisses me off. When people voted for Mayor Bartlett, they wanted a leader. They looked at him and noticed that he was saying things like having the experience needed to run the city. Well, have you noticed that he is not running the city? Have you noticed that he is not accomplishing the task in which the majority voted.
I would hope that the Mayor of the City of Tulsa would be able to make decisions. Tough decisions about how to run this city. Mayor Bartlett was handed a large deficit and was told by the voters to fix it. After all, he stated that he had the knowledge the business savy to fix it.
But where is Mayor Bartlett. Hiding behind the sympathy of all the citizens who have been laid off. Hiding behind all those citizens who have had a pay reduction. Hiding behind the decision that he should be making.
Well, if Mayor Bartlett is wanting the fire fighters local and the FOP to make this important decision for him, I think that he should remove his Chief of Staff. Remove all those he hired to assist him in running the City of Tulsa.
Move over all, because the Mayor of the City of Tulsa has just asked the FOP and the Fire Fighters Local to run the City. These two groups have been asked to make a worth while contribution to the City of Tulsa.
I have heard the citizens of Tulsa speak about how unions have destroyed the economy. I have heard them say that the unions are the ones breaking the systems. I have heard nothing but evil when it comes to unions.
Well, if the FOP is the Union, then this collective bargaining unit deserves praise. The men and women who have participated on the negotiations team should, without a doubt, receive an wonderful standing ovation from all the citizens of Tulsa.
Because the FOP has not just negotiated contract provisions for the employees, they have made the work of public safety a priority. This priority has provided provisions that have made it safer for officers to patrol the streets. This priority has provided for tools that make working the streets safer. These tools are used to make Tulsa a great place to live and the FOP has made it happen on many occasions.
The young officers may not know what this all means. The old officer may also not know what this all means. But it is the members of the FOP who faught for a change in working conditions. When these changes were made, it often provided for greater safety for the officers. This safety for the officer spelled out safety for the citizens.
It was the FOP who negotiated education pay. This was the beginning of the recognition that an educated officer is one who provides better leadership. This lead to what has often been called as a higher class of officers. I have heard many say the more education an officer has, the better he is prepared to make the decsions that are needed.
It was the FOP who negotiated the protective vests (often called bullet proof vests). It was their negotiations that provide for vest replacements every five years (the life of that vest). It was based on this premise that replacing the vest would provide for a safer environment for the officers. Keeping officers alive means keeping bad guys off the streets.
I am sure that I could spend many hours on how those men and women have written proposals that have made the job safer. It is not always about compensation. It is about foreseeing the need and requesting the City to provide. I think that many do not understand the issues of why the FOP contract and the fire fighters contracts are so important. But if you really spend some time and find out why those provisions are in place, then you find out why the contract is so important.
So we are back to the basic question.
So if the Mayor of the City of Tulsa can not make a decision, why is he Mayor?
Oh yes, we are back to the shrinking behind sympathy. If a police officer was trying to hide, he would be a coward. Being a coward could get you fired. As you see, a police officer is often out then taking the abuse. Spreading the word of why this is so bad. And we are not the only ones. The firemen are out there too.
Come on Mayor Bartlett, grow the balls, so you can make the decision that the Citizens of Tulsa wanted you to make. Run this city like you said you would in your campaign speeches.
Then sit down and have employee meetings to describe how bad this all is and that we need to find ways to make it work.
Oh, by the way, the FOP once again offered to save some cash. By working on Compensatory Time only, the city could have a short term fix of half the money you are needing to save. It was offered under the last Mayor. It should be a consideration for you too. Because even when you look at us and say this is a short term fix and I don't like that proposal, wake up. Your idea to save money is also a short term fix. So what is the difference between the two? Oh right, you did not have anything to do with coming up with short term fix. It was the negotiations team of the FOP!
Mayor Bartlett, if you are afraid of scare tactics, then you might actually be afraid of the criminals who are going to take on this city. They are going to make it their employment grounds a place of opportunity for gain (money, drugs, etc).
Saturday, January 2, 2010
TFD/TPD Public Safety Rally
The third in a series of TPD / TFD public safety rallies has been announced.
Make plans for today, January 2, 2010. At 41st & Yale Ave. At 3:00 pm.
Bring a VOICE!
Bring a SIGN!
Bring your ENTHUSIASM!
Bring your FAMILY
This event has been coordinated by http://www.citizensforasafetulsa.wordpress.com/
This is a grass root effort. We can't do this alone.
It's time to stand up and make a difference in Tulsa.
Please support the TPD and the TFD today!
Make plans for today, January 2, 2010. At 41st & Yale Ave. At 3:00 pm.
Bring a VOICE!
Bring a SIGN!
Bring your ENTHUSIASM!
Bring your FAMILY
This event has been coordinated by http://www.citizensforasafetulsa.wordpress.com/
This is a grass root effort. We can't do this alone.
It's time to stand up and make a difference in Tulsa.
Please support the TPD and the TFD today!
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