A message from FPCA's President, Chief Gary R. Grosser:
Together We Can Make A Difference.
September 1, 1999
For most of us, this is the end of
one fiscal year and the beginning of another.
We've toiled with the limitations of budget, and in many cases we've
produced that "silk Purse" from a "sows ear."
But as we begin anew, we need to remember that what we have done needs
to be done again and again - not until we "have it right," but until every
law enforcement officer, every supervisor, every administrator, every public
official, and every citizen understands that, as law officers, we have an
obligation - indeed, an expectation - to have an unrivaled philosophy of
ethics.
As we return to work to ensure the safety of the children of our
communities as they return to school, we also need to determine how we will
school our existing workforce and our new employees in the all -
encompassing topic of "Ethics."
Our Association has established its position. Now it's time for all of
us to reaffirm that stand: In the new year, we will renew our efforts to
maintain our code of ethics. It is our "badge" of honor.
For those of you who may not have received word, we lost a good friend
in law enforcement this past August 22nd. Charlie Snowden of the Gainesville
Police Department lost his battle with cancer. Many of you know Charlie
through his work in Gainesville, but many more of you know him through his
work as Secretary of the Florida Chapter of the FBI National Academy
Associates. Since his graduation from the 84th Session, FBINA, Charlie
worked diligently to make our state chapter the best in the country. While
doing so, he became it's official "Godfather." He will be missed.
There is no finer cause than one in which we try to make our
profession better than it was when we came to it. Charlie isn't alone in
this arena; we have scores of leaders in our state who are working toward
that goal. Another is Chief Bill Berger of the North Miami Beach Police
Department.
In October 2001, Chief Berger will be ascending to the Presidency of
the International Association of Chiefs of Police. When Bill accepted the
challenge to seek that office, he did so knowing he would be making a ten
- year commitment. He has been steadfast in his desire to bring Florida to
the forefront of law enforcement in our nation. It is time for all of you to make a commitment, or to renew a commitment, to support Bill as he accepts the office of President. I am
asking each of our District Associations and each of our State Association's
sponsorship for IACP 2001. The Brevard County Association of Chiefs of
Police have stepped up to the plate, along with some individuals, and it is
very much appreciated, but we are a long way from the goal. I am asking
each of you to become personally involved in this effort. Together we will
make a difference.