California Emergency Dispatcher AssociationCAL-EDA President's Message.....
June 2011
It started eight years ago with an idea and a free lunch. The idea was for Tactical Dispatchers to get together to talk about things specific to their areas of expertise. The calls that went well, the calls that didn't go quite so well - and let everyone learn from them. The first meeting brought over 100 Dispatchers together to see if the idea was even viable. Based on the turnout alone, the need was obvious.
We held regional training meetings that often times mimicked episodes of Law and Order - as soon as something major happened - we were on the phone trying to arrange a Dispatcher to come talk about it. We had speakers who worked the Amish School Shootings, the Columbine High School tragedy, the Trolly Mall shooting, the North Hollywood Bank of America shootout - and of course, we had Dispatchers come speak to us who were on duty during September 11, 2001.
I have met some amazing people, everyday dispatchers doing extraordinary things. Teams of dispatchers who have pulled together during the deadliest of circumstances, working their magic to put all the pieces together in a timely manner for first responders.
After the shooting of four officers in Oakland, and the amazing, unprecedented response from Dispatchers all over the state - we knew we had to do something different - something more. So we changed the format, including Fire and EMS dispatchers. The new association continues to be the only statewide professional association for public safety dispatchers in the nation - something we are most proud of.
But, like everything, all good things must come to an end - at least for me. I was recently granted more time with my sons, who are 15 and 6. they will soon be on their way out the house, and I have so much to teach them still. Although it was an easy decision for me, it was nonetheless painful to make. I had to do whatever I could to spend more time with them - and that would mean giving something up. Unfortunately, the giving up part was going to be the thing that occupied most of my time - the Association.
So, it is with mixed emotions that I write this final article as President. It will be awesome to spend more time with my sons. But it will also suck to not be able to continue to be as involved with the great group of friends I have made - not only all over this state, but from all over the country.
Continue your involvement with the Association - they will continue to put on regional trainging classes in your area - as well as unique, fun events. They work hard for the profession - so try to attend a class or some other event. And, if I don't see you before - I hope to see you on the cruise in January, 2012.
Thank you all very much for your support and dedication over the years. You continue to make a difference in the work you do - and should be commended.
Kurt Anderson
Past President
California Emergency Dispatcher Association
Check out Kurt's blog here
04/10 President's Message here
03/10 President's Message here
11/09 President's Message here
07/09 CTDA Members Message here