September, 2006

                           "A Privilege to Serve"

I attended my first FPCA training conference in January of 1997. And believe me, becoming president of the association was beyond my wildest expectations. But the organization, I should say the people of the organization made an immediate impact on my agency and me. Never before had I been surrounded by such a great group of professionals that stood ready and willing to help me, a newly appointed chief. As I became more familiar with this association, I realized that reaching out to members is the basic premise on which the Florida Police Chief's Association was founded.

Our goal as Florida Police Chiefs is to provide quality police services for the members of our communities. The FPCA helps us reach that goal. FPCA provides a forum for members to share experiences and information of best practices. There is a reason that our conferences are called "training conferences". We have hosted some of the most talented speakers and educators from all across the country. The diligent work of our training committee and the financial support from our foundation has allowed us to bring in experienced professionals who offer valuable information and instruction.

As a member of the FPCA we have a wealth of knowledge at our immediate disposal. As police chiefs we have a difficult task but nothing says we have to go at it alone. The impression made upon me at my first conference has proved to be accurate. The association has so much to offer only because the membership has much to offer.

In my opinion some of the best, most practical learning takes place during the breaks, the lunches, and other events that that bring together some of the most experienced and talented police administrators from all parts of this state. Of course I'm speaking of you, the membership of the Florida Police Chief's Association.

To say that I am honored to serve as your president would be an understatement. But I am honored, and excited, and I understand the challenges ahead. For the past ten years I have watched and listened to some impressive law enforcement professionals during their terms as president. They all possess some amazing characteristics that I'll need to be successful this year. I'll need the innovation of Bill Berger. I'll need the straightforwardness of Rick Beary. I'll need the notoriety of Lee Cote. I'll need the energy of a Paul Rumbley. I'll need the brevity and the insight of Jay Romine. I'll need the humility of a Tony Velong.

My desire is to instill and demonstrate these characteristics while leading this association as we continue to be one of the premier law enforcement organizations in the country.

To maintain our status, and most importantly our effectiveness we need to be reminded that our success is determined by the success of our committees. Roughly thirteen committees provide the fuel that runs the association. I want to personally thank all of our committee members and leaders. After the conference your executive board began reaching out to committee chairs to ensure they have all that is needed to be effective.

The summer conference was an amazing experience. Thanks to all who made the installation banquet such a memorable occasion. Having my sons, Joe and Chad participate in the event was without a doubt the highlight of my career. This year's attendees also witnessed history in the making as we recognized the first recipients of the Wall of Honor Award. A true legend, Willis Booth was in attendance to receive his award. The families of Raymond Beary and Lee McGeehee were present as we honored the memory and legacy of these two heroes. Fred Taylor was unable to join us therefore he will be recognized at the Mid-Winter Conference.

Thanks and congratulations to Chief Tony Velong for a successful year at the helm. Amy Mercer and the FPCA staff once again rose to the occasion and with the help of the Volusia County Police Chief's they pulled it all together. It is amazing how many behind-the- scene issues have to be dealt with during our conference. It is even more amazing how our staff handles these issues with promptness and professionalism.

What a privilege it is for me to serve as your president. I will lean on my faith in God to lead by conviction and integrity. I encourage you to become involved. The concept is simple: The best way this association can work for you is for you to work for the association. Find your area of service and let's have a great year!