February, 2007

                                "Take a Shot..."

The great hockey player Wayne Gretzky once said, "You miss 100% of the shots you never take." I'm sure this statement was made to demonstrate aggressive thinking while playing professional hockey. But in our ever changing profession it poses a practical application that challenges us as individuals and as an association. In this article I want to encourage the FPCA members and leaders to "take shots".

We are currently taking shots to bolster our legislative voice and presence. Chief Al Hogle, who chairs our legislative committee, reported that attendance at the Mid-Winter conference meeting was at an all time high. In January, we had two subject matter experts from Orlando and Tallahassee Police Departments attend the Senate Criminal Justice Committee meeting which dealt with the stun gun issues.

FPCA 2nd Vice-President Gerald Monahan volunteered to take a shot at some redistricting issues. This was a difficult task but Chief Monahan worked hard and his efforts paid off, resulting in the newly formed District 17. This action will lead to closer networking and better communication among chiefs in that area. Thanks also to Chief Gordon Smith for help in organizing this new district and ensuring a smooth transition.

Taking the lead from Chief Peter Paulding, the FPCA board voted to create a new chiefs mentoring program in partnership with the IACP. I agree with Chief John Skinner who responded by saying, "I believe this is an excellent idea...well overdue. Being a Chief can be awfully lonely and, no matter how much you think you know what it is like being a Chief you really don't until you sit in the seat for an extended period."

Of course I have to mention the constant shots that Amy and her staff continue to take to ensure that our training conferences continue to grow in attendance and positive economic impact for our association. We are setting records in both of these areas and it is due to our staff's willingness to think outside of the box and make it happen. Please take a moment to send a quick e-mail and thank them for their tireless efforts.

For those who may not know, I have recently been appointed as the new Chief in the City of Auburndale. I will always cherish my experience in leading the fine men and women who make up the Live Oak Police Department. However this opportunity to serve in Auburndale is certainly exciting. Auburndale is a progressive city in Polk County and I look forward to serving the members of the agency and the community. Although I have valuable experience in starting a newly-formed police department, I am surely open to any guidance from those who have served tenure in an agency, then transitioned to another one. Please give me a call and let's talk.

I pray God's blessings and protection for you and your families. Stay safe and remember, "You miss 100% of the shots you never take!"