April 26, 2025 Issue, Page 10 of 10

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10• SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025 The Elk City News ECPD Celebrates National Telecommunications Week By Sheryl Ponce and integrity; have compas- a week for the safety of Elk emergency response person- the ECPD notification, it be- are also dispatching for the sion; have a high degree of City and police officers. nel,” described by the ECPD. gan as an initiative set up in ECFD, Canute Fire Depart- Last week the Elk City Po- emotional self-control; be “Public safety telecommu- The National Public Safety 1981 by Patricia Anderson of ment, Foss Fire Department, lice Department honored intelligent; have good com- nicators are people who take Telecommunications Week Contra Cost County in Cal- and Carter Fire Department. their public safety telecom- munication skills; and have information from the public takes place the second week ifornia. Later it went on to It is time to honor these in- municators or dispatch- self-confidence. about crimes, threats, fires, in April, and was founded become a week-long nation- dividuals who seem to be ers. Those behind the 911 Currently, the ECPD has medical emergencies, and to honor those individuals wide event. Western Oklahoma heroes or emergency calls have to ten dispatchers that work other emergency matters to who dedicate their lives to The Elk City dispatchers dedicating their lives to sav- be of high moral character 24 hours a day, seven days coordinate and connect with public safety. According to answer 911 calls, and they ing lives behind the scenes. DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT: KIMBERLEE CHANEY DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT: MERANDA DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT: WENDI GRINDER ADAMES-PROCTOR Kimberlee Chaney’s journey “I absolutely Wendi Grinder has been an es- what our offi- Meranda Adames-Proctor low-key run- sential part of ECPD since 2016, cers go through in public safety started just one love my job! It’s has been a dispatcher with our ning the show serving first as a dispatcher and and what they month after her high school gradu- always intrigued department since 2014. from behind as our department’s Jail Admin- need, I can get ation in 1997—going straight from me since I was a When asked to describe her the scenes. It’s istrator. In this role, she oversees them the in- prom to the dispatch console at the kid. I may not life as a dispatcher, Meranda not for every- fire drills, coordinates Fire Mar- formation fast- Elk City Police Department! After be a nurse or an states one but it’s for shal and state jail inspections, and er—sometimes two years with ECPD, she decided officer, but be- “I’ve been living the dispatch- me. Ten years ensures the facility remains up to even before they ask for it.” to explore other agencies, gaining ing able to help behind the phone er life headset on, iced tea in in, and I’ve code. Her knowledge and atten- When asked what she loves 9 years of experience before taking or radio is both an honor and in- hand, juggling calls like a circus handled everything from high- tion to detail help keep our jail most about dispatching, Wendi a well-deserved break in 2006 to credibly rewarding. I love help- act over the years. I’ve become a speed pursuits to alpacas run- running smoothly and efficiently. shared: become a full-time stay-at-home ing the public get what they need pro at controlled chaos, fast typ- ning free on Main Street and In addition to her adminis- “I love being a part of some- mom. Fast forward to 2022, Kim- and making sure my coworkers ing, and giving directions that yes, both were equally dramatic. trative duties, Wendi also serves thing bigger than myself. Some- berlee returned to our department go home safely”. Outside of work, somehow include at least one Outside of dispatch, I’m a very as a Communications Training times, all it takes is staying on as a dispatcher. She shared, “This she enjoys making people laugh, non directional landmark such proud aunt (the kind who brings Officer, helping mentor new dis- the phone with someone during department has always held a camping, yard work, crafting, and as “turn left at the church that snacks and says yes when par- patchers. the worst moment of their life, special place in my heart—being spending time with her family. used to be a bowling alley”. Some ents say no), and I run a home Most recently, in January 2025, until help arrives. It really hum- back is really fun!” (We think she We’re thrilled to have Kimber- of the extra roles I have along- bakery that’s fueled by caffeine Wendi became a certified reserve bles you. I’m proud to be part of just missed the PD coffee!) When lee back at ECPD—her dedication side being a dispatcher are, I am and stress-baking. Some people police officer. She pursued this a team our community relies on”. asked why she loves dispatching, makes us grateful to have her on the TAC (Terminal Agency Co- unwind with yoga— I unwind certification to deepen her un- We’re incredibly lucky to have Kimberlee said: our team. ordinator) for OLETS, which is with cupcakes and true crime derstanding of law enforcement Wendi on our team. Her dedica- DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT: JASMIN VANBUREN just a fancy way of saying I make podcasts. So, whether I’m wran- and to better support and train tion, professionalism, and heart sure nobody breaks the rules or gling units or cupcakes, I keep her fellow dispatchers. As Wendi for the job make her an invalu- Jasmin Vanburen has been get people the misuses the system. I am also a things running smoothly-with a puts it, “If I can better understand able part of ECPD. a dispatcher with Elk City PD help they need Communication Training Offi- headset, a spatula, and a whole since 2020. with whatev- cer for new employees. There’s lot of sarcasm”. something wonderful about be- We are very grateful to have DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT: MAYLEE CHANEY “I started my dispatching ca- er emergency reer at the Kern County Sher- they are hav- ing the calm voice in someone’s Meranda here with us at ECPD. Maylee has been a dispatch- the community iff ’s Office in Bakersfield, CA in ing. I took a worst moment, the one guiding Her hard work & humor are im- er for our department for 1 ½ I grew up in.” 2009. In 2016 I moved to Ore- break from officers, solving problems, and portant to our department. years, bringing positive energy to Her passion gon and became the first DPSST dispatching for our team every day. When asked for service and (Department of Public Safety of about a year and a half when I DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT: LESLIE DENLEY what inspired her to pursue a ca- commitment Standards in Training) certified moved to Oklahoma in 2018, reer in dispatch, she shared: “Law to helping oth- dispatcher at Oregon State Uni- and I missed being a part of the If you’ve ever called the Elk different. Even enforcement has always intrigued ers is truly in- versity. I am a training officer at first responder family. When I’m City Police Department or di- after 14 years, me, and becoming a dispatcher spiring. We’re the PD, which means I train the not dispatching, I’m enjoying aled 911, there’s a good chance I still look for- gave me the chance to give back to proud to have her on our team! new hires in one of three phases time with my husband Devin you’ve heard the calm, steady ward to com- they have to complete before and our 2 daughters Tynlie and voice of Leslie Denley on the ing to work. I DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT: SARA VIDAURRI they can be released on their Karlee”. other end. enjoy working own. This is how they learn the We are very grateful to have Leslie began her career with alongside my “My name is Sara Vidaurri. I to make a real basics of the job. I love being a Jasmin here with us at ECPD. the City of Elk City in January coworkers, previously worked at ECPD as a difference when dispatcher because every day is Her hard work and dedication to 2003 in the Public Works De- helping my community, and dispatcher from 2013 to 2016, but it matters most. different, and I love being able to her job never go unnoticed. partment and transferred to the being there for those in need. took a break to start my little fam- Over the years, Police Department in February There’s real gratification in be- ily, and returned in 2023. Let me I’ve mastered DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT: JESSICA PATTERSON 2011. That’s an incredible 22 ing able to help others.” Outside tell you, it’s never a dull moment! staying calm years of dedicated service to our of work, Leslie enjoys spending I thrive on making a real difference under pressure, Jessica Patterson has been a dis- dedicated team city! Here at ECPD, Leslie wears time outdoors working in the in those critical moments, offering thinking on my patcher at ECPD for just over a year. that works tire- many hats. She currently serves yard and traveling to places out- help and reassurance when people feet, and keeping things clear when “Becoming a dispatcher has al- lessly to make a as a Communications Training side of the United States on long need it most. There’s something chaos strikes. And as a mom, I’ve ways been a goal of mine. I truly positive impact Officer for new hires, handles family vacations. about the fast pace and intensi- got that extra dose of responsibility enjoy the fast-paced, ever-chang- on the commu- department payroll, and works We’re incredibly grateful to ty of emergency situations that and compassion that I bring to ev- ing nature of the role. In addition nity”. diligently to keep the sex offend- have Leslie as part of the ECPD speaks to my soul. It’s not just the ery call, making sure everyone gets to my dispatching responsibilities, We are very er registry updated and compli- family. Her dedication, experi- adrenaline—it’s the privilege of be- the care they deserve”! I am also an EMT, which enhanc- grateful to have Jessica here with ant with state laws. When asked ence, and compassion truly set ing there for people during some We are very fortunate to have es my ability on how to respond us at ECPD. Her hard work and what she loves most about her her apart. of their hardest moments. I truly Sara here with us at ECPD. Her effectively during emergencies. I dedication to her job never go un- job, Leslie shared: “I love that Thank you, Leslie, for every- love the challenge, the urgency, hard work and dedication to her take great pride in being part of a noticed. my job as a dispatcher is always thing you do! and most of all, the opportunity job never go unnoticed. DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT: MARY CHRONISTER DISPATCHER SPOTLIGHT: TORI JACKSON “My name is Mary Chronister. I have dispatch) certifica- be the calm in someone’s time of need. been an Elk City Police & Fire dispatch- tion back to help us My experience as a dispatcher has been Victoria (Tori) Jackson has of need— I transitioned to dispatching, er for a little over nine years now, and provide an even full of challenges, but every day offers worked with us here at the Elk staying calm where the skills I have learned what an unforgettable journey it has more comprehensive a new opportunity to learn and grow. City Police Department for just and ensuring such as staying calm under been. The honor and privilege has been support to the com- When I am not at work, I am always under two years. the right help pressure and helping others; mine to be able to contribute in vari- munity. What I love up for an adventure especially with “It’s been a rewarding jour- gets to the continue to guide me in making ous capacities within our facility. From most about being a my Grandson. We love exploring new ney. I’m proud to be part of a right place a difference every day”. serving as a trainer to supporting the dispatcher is knowing that I am making places and making memories together. team that serves and protects quickly. Ev- We are very fortunate to have Jail Administrator with her responsi- a difference when it matters most, the Every day is a new blessing filled with our community. The best part ery call is an opportunity to save Tori here with us at ECPD. Her bilities. We are all currently working on adrenaline of handling any given type of new mercies, and I wouldn’t trade it for of being a dispatcher is knowing lives or provide critical support. hard work and dedication to her getting our EMD (emergency medical emergency as well as the opportunity to anything”. I’m helping people in their time After serving in the military, job never go unnoticed. ELK CITY Elk City tennis experienced a remarkable day! The boys’ The girls’ team finished third overall! Analiese team emerged victorious, finishing first overall at the PV Whittington, Kirbey Mouse, Miranda Brausell, Andee invitational in Edmond! Quinn Brewer, Spence Brewer, Galloway (not pictured MacKinley Brewer & Madeline Kyler Welch, Kade Duncan, Rafe Coslow, Max Murray 4th grade multiplication madness winners. Laufer) Good Luck Area Teams! We want to wish you a great season! :UG6W (ON&LW\2.   Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. ZZZSL]]DKXWFRP ELK CITY: 2714 W. 3rd St. • 102 S. 580-225-2580 Main St.•580.225.2580 https//www.fnbec.bank 2017 W. Third | 1300 S. Main | gpbankok.com &DUU\RXW‡&XUEVLGH‡'HOLYHU\ *UHDW3ODLQV Carry-out • Hut Lane • Delivery 2017 W. Third | 1300 S. Main | Elk City Wal-Mart | gpbankok.com SAYRE: 711 NE Highway 66 • 580-928-2580 1DWLRQDO%DQN 580-225-2265 Good Luck Teams! We hope each of you have a great season! We hope 1210 S. Main St, Elk City you have 580-225-0100 Elk City Nursing Home a great www.elksupply.com 301 N. Garrett, Elk City 580-225-2811 580.243.0466 year!