Erin Dickerson’s Prayer
When we see a “Thin Blue Line” flag flying in support of our brothers and sisters in law enforcement, we do not necessarily know what the lines symbolize. The blue stripe stands for law enforcement. The black stripe above symbolizes society, order, and peace. The black stripe below symbolizes crime, anarchy, and chaos. Those in law enforcement stand between the two.
Lord our God,
It takes a special kind of person to put on a uniform day in and day out to protect and defend us all; both those who support them and those who question their every move and decision. Lord, please give our siblings in blue wisdom in every situation they face, peace of mind that they did their very best, and surround them in Your everlasting love and protection.
Amen.
Announcements
- Jane Fiehrer announced that the winners of the Visual Arts Contest have been chosen and they are invited to the CNO meeting on June 11, 2024.
- Bob Lawson announced that the Fishing Derby will be held on June 1, 2024, at Oak Grove Park instead of the RecPlex this year. No fishing experience required. They need more volunteers to weigh fish and volunteers to write down the weights. For details and to sign up use the Member Calendar.
- Katie Calloway announced that for Safetyville Square she needs a few more volunteers. Contact her if you would like to help.
- Tom Novak announced that flags will be delivered on May 22, 2024. They need several more volunteers and especially those with vehicles that can handle ten-foot-long flag poles. Contact Tom to volunteer or sign up using the Member Calendar.
John P. Kalaman Respect for Law Awards 2024
Joan Cordonnier introduced the emcee for today’s awards ceremony, Gary Anderson.
View the z-fold flyer that was on the tables today. The flyer has several details about the two recipients and information about John P. Kalaman.
Every year, one person is selected for the City of Centerville Police Department and one person is selected for the Washington Township Substation of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. Nominations are accepted from the peers of those eligible. All employees of the department are eligible, not just police officers.
Each recipient receives a Respect for Law Award plaque.
Introductions
Gary Anderson introduced the honorees and guests.
Ruth O’Toole stood in for John and Paula Kalaman.
From the Centerville Police Department: Chief Matt Brown, award recipient Sergeant Josh Ratliff and his wife Megan Ratliff and their son, Tyler Wilson, and Lieutenant Mike Yoder (2008 Recipient and CNO member).
Fron the Washington Township Sheriff’s Office: District Commander Captain Mike Brem (CNO member), Sheriff Rob Streck; Chief Matt Haines, Major Jeremy Roy, Sergeant Scott Morgan (2022 Recipient), Amanda Jones, Brian Jones, award recipient Deputy Bill Jones, Gary Smiga, Kate Trangenstein.
Comments from Gary Anderson
“RESPECT FOR LAW.” This Optimist International program began after a July 1965 discussion between Past International President Carl Bowen and former FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover. The annual observance is now the fourth most popular Optimist activity with more than 1,500 clubs participating each year. Over a quarter of a million law enforcement officers have been honored by thousands of Optimist Clubs around the world for over 50 years.
“RESPECT FOR LAW.” Think about it for a moment. Pause and reflect on what that term means. What does it mean to Americans in 2024. What does it mean to you? John Adams said America is “A government of laws, and not of men.” This statement encapsulates the essence of a fair and just society, where the rule of law serves as the foundation. By emphasizing the importance of laws over the influence and whims of individuals, Adams highlights the significance of an impartial system that governs societies. Simply put, it means that no one should be above the law, and everyone should be subjected to its power.
The individuals we recognize today, and their fraternity of like-minded souls, take an oath to uphold “the rule of law.” What about the rest of us? For me, I am concerned about the future of our freedoms and our democracy. I will leave you with a quote from our 40th President, Ronald Reagan, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in our bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.”
Centerville Police Chief Matt Brown
Police Chief Matt Brown spoke about the award for Detective Sergeant Josh Ratliff:
Thank you – Centerville Noon Optimist, John and Paula Kalaman, Ruth O’Toole, Yankee Trace Staff. Congratulations to Deputy Bill Jones.
Nominations are solicited from employees of the police department and sent to our awards committee for consideration.
Those nominated are typically employees who have exhibited excellence through special accomplishment or a daily commitment to the mission and values of the department. This commitment is typically exhibited through the employee’s outstanding work product, attention to detail, exemplary treatment of the public, and cheerful and cooperative attitude with co-workers.
Here are a few excerpts from the numerous recommendations by his coworkers:
Det. Sgt. Ratliff took the initiative at the beginning of the year to help implement the body worn cameras. This included troubleshooting and numerous contacts with Motorola to get the system up and running. This demonstrates his great work ethic, teamwork, and willingness to help better the department.
He is an advocate for all the employees and doesn’t limit it to just the employees that he directly supervises. If you bring a question or concern to him, he will answer or find the answer and take the concern seriously no matter what it may be. He always has a great attitude and works diligently to make this department a better place to work and serve the Centerville community.
Please join me in congratulating Sergeant Josh Ratliff as this year’s recipient from the Centerville Police Department.
Comments from Sergeant Josh Ratliff
Sergeant Josh Ratliff spoke:
Good afternoon. First, I’d like to say that it is an honor to serve in this great community and to receive this award. We have an abundance of support from the community as well as city council.
First, I’d like to thank the Kalaman and O’Toole families as well as the Centerville Noon Optimist Club for the opportunity to receive this award.
I’d also like to thank my wife for always supporting me. It’s not easy being a spouse in this career field.
I started my career with the police department over 15 years ago. I was definitely still a kid at that point. I didn’t know anything about police work and very little about the interpersonal skills needed to do the job. I’m now at the point in my career where I’m starting to feel old. I see the younger generation coming in and man do they look young! My body hurts and my hair is starting to turn grey.
I often look at where I started to where I am now and think about how I arrived here. One of the main bullet points that comes to mind is leadership. All of us have leadership qualities and capabilities within us to a certain extent. However, I believe that if you truly want to make a difference in any aspect of life, you must continuously work to sharpen those skills. The city has done a great job with affording every employee the opportunity to enhance their leadership ability. Every day, I try to continue my growth to be the best version of myself at work as well as my personal life.
Finally, I want to say thank you to the Chief and Lieutenants for always supporting, trusting, and guiding me to be successful in my career thus far. I’m looking forward to the years ahead.
Thank you.
Washington Township District Commander Captain Mike Brem
Captain Mike Brem spoke about the award for Deputy Bill Jones:
Our office takes this award very seriously. I met with my supervisors and asked them, “Who do you think represents the values we honor – respect and integrity?” This year, it was overwhelming – Deputy Bill Jones truly represents that for us.
Let me share a couple of examples that really highlight who Bill Jones is, beyond what’s printed in the pamphlet.
In January 2023, Deputy Jones was assigned to the Washington Township substation as the Community Policing deputy. While serving there, he assisted with over 72 community events, made thousands of citizen contacts, and created relationships with local Washington Township businesses and the school districts. He orchestrated local donation efforts to support single moms, crime victims, kids going through difficult times, and more.
While organizing an event, Deputy Jones found himself at a local business, standing in the lobby area. It was there that a three-year-old girl, attending swimming lessons, caught sight of him. Upon seeing Deputy Jones in uniform, the young girl became visibly frightened, trembling with fear. She froze on the spot, staring at him in terror. Sensing her distress, Deputy Jones took a step back, signaling to the girl’s mother not to push her towards him. Exiting the business, he made his way to his cruiser, where he kept a duffle bag filled with donated stuffed animals. Retrieving a teddy bear from the bag, Deputy Jones returned to the business.
Locating the young girl and her family, Deputy Jones approached them, holding out the teddy bear from a distance. At the sight of the bear, the girl’s face lit up, and she tentatively began to walk towards Deputy Jones.
Later, the girl’s mother confided in Deputy Jones, revealing that the family was fostering the young girl due to her parents’ struggles with drug addiction. Eventually, the family would formally adopt both the young girl and her brother. Since that day, Deputy Jones has maintained a close bond with the family. He is regularly invited to their gatherings, attends the girl’s t-ball games, greets her as she gets off the school bus, and was even present at the family’s official adoption ceremony. Many of these interactions take place during Deputy Jones’ off-duty hours.
There are many examples like this showcasing who Bill Jones is, which is why I’m so proud to have him representing our Sheriff’s Office district.
Comments from Bill Jones
Deputy Bill Jones spoke:
First and foremost, I extend my deepest gratitude to God for his unwavering guidance and divine plan. To my beloved wife and son – your steadfast support and sacrifice over the past 22 years have been the cornerstone of my journey in serving others with purpose and passion. I’m endlessly grateful for your love and understanding.
Sheriff, I’m deeply grateful for the trust and confidence you have placed in me to wear the black and gold uniform of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. I’m profoundly thankful for the opportunity you have given me to finish my career as your deputy chief. Your leadership style is characterized by integrity up front and prioritizing service to others, which is both admirable and inspiring. If you wear the black and gold, it is clear that you serve the community that you work for. Your visionary leadership and unwavering support as I have served as your deputy for Washington Township have been very much appreciated. Your belief in my abilities has been the source of great empowerment throughout my career. Your commitment to community service and servant leadership is an inspiration to us all. Thank you for the opportunity to serve with you as your deputy.
To my fellow deputies and peers, your nomination and votes for this award are deeply appreciated. I say my heartfelt gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Kalaman for their enduring support of law enforcement and their dedication to preserving their son’s legacy. It is with great humility and honor that I accept this award, knowing that my name is now linked with the esteemed name of your son (John P. Kalaman) and your family. I’m deeply committed to preserving the legacy of service and compassion that your son’s family have profoundly woven into the fabric of this community. Reflecting on my involvement in last year’s Memorial Festival where we honored officers for their sacrifices while on duty fills me with immense pride to now be privileged to receive this award in turn.
In times of uncertainty, I find strength in the resolute words of Admiral William McRaven: “If you want to change the world, don’t ever, ever ring the bell.” Ringing the bell signifies self-initiated dropout from Navy SEAL training. I remain steadfast in my commitment to embody these principles of perseverance, refusing to quit or give up, and persistently striving to make a positive difference in the lives of those we serve. Thank you once again for this incredible award. I’m deeply humbled and inspired to continue serving our community with unwavering dedication, passion and heart.
Final Comments from Gary Anderson
Mark Twain said, “Age is an issue of mind over mind. If you don’t mind it doesn’t matter.”
Let me wrap up on a serious note.
We try to have fun in our Optimist year. Today’s meeting and the EMT meeting are the most serious meetings, yet we still find a way to have fun.
About the CNO John P. Kalaman Respect for Law Awards
From Bob Burkman:
The Respect for Law program began in 1965 and has grown to be one of the most popular in Optimism. 1500 Optimist clubs participated last year.
Shortly after our club was charted in 1968, we adopted an annual Respect for Law Award in cooperation with the Centerville Police Department and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Washington Township substation.
Each law enforcement agency forwards the name of their Officer or Deputy of the year to receive our award.
On January 12, 1998, Centerville Police Officer John P. Kalaman and Washington Township Firefighter Robert O’Toole were fatally injured during a traffic accident investigation on Interstate 675. Club member the late Terry Blair provided the impetus to name our Respect for Law Award in John Kalaman’s honor. At the same time, a Firefighter/EMT of the Year Award was created to honor Robert O’Toole, which is presented in October each year.
I read once that we die twice. Once when our physical being leaves the earth and a second time when our story is no longer told. If that is true, John Kalaman and Robert O’Toole will be with us for a very long time.
While we honor our law enforcement personnel each year, we should also recognize their families and loved ones. Their love, anxiety and sacrifice go largely unnoticed by the general public. Thanks to the family members and friends who came here today and the many law enforcement families throughout our nation. This award is yours as well.
Welcome Guests
| Guest | Guest Of |
| Aimee Sproles | Blanca Criner |
| Barb Westendorf | Program |
| Brad Millward | Art Hung |
| Chris Wonzniak | Program |
| Cristy Kettering | Lacey Owens |
| Dan Tarpey | Program |
| Doug Westendorf | Program |
| Luke Carey | Mike Bevis |
| Molly Spearman | Lacwy Owens |
| Stacy Westendorf | Award Recipient |
| Steve Martin | Program |
| Thomas Wagner | Online Guest |
| Theresa Curry | Art Hung |
New Member Readings and Inductions
| Name | Sponsor | 1st 2nd 3rd Reading or Induction |
| Doug Orf | Tom Novak | 3rd Reading |
| Vicki Thompson | Ron Thompson | Induction |
Happy Bucks
No time for Happy Bucks this week
Sergeants at Arms
| Member | Infraction |
| Bob Meyer, Mike Creech, Don Kelley | Wearing shirts with logos which is a shameless self promotion. |
| Beth Duncan, Craig Dring, Katie Calloway | Wearing shirts with logos which is a shameless self promotion. |
| Gary Hansen, Karen Charnesky, Gary Smiga | Wearing shirts with logos which is a shameless self promotion. |
| Bob Glavin, Mike Newkirk, Tonja Williams | Wearing shirts with logos which is a shameless self promotion. |
| Kate Trangenstein, Scott Langer, Cameron Langer | Wearing shirts with logos which is a shameless self promotion. |
| Rob Streck, Matt Brown, Mike Brem | Sergeant Chris McAlpine also decided that police and sheriff’s office uniforms counted as a shameless self promotion. I think Chris likes getting speeding tickets. |
Membership Anniversaries
| Member | Joined | Years |
| Brendan Cunningham | May 15, 2018 | 6 |
| Wendy Hattan | May 15, 2018 | 6 |
| David Ladd | May 16, 2012 | 12 |
| Megan Dalton | May 17, 2022 | 2 |
| Rick Hartley | May 17, 2022 | 2 |
| Claire Kerr | May 17, 2022 | 2 |
| Dean Lundgren | May 17, 2022 | 2 |
| Bill DeShurko | May 18, 2011 | 13 |
| Jim Marker | May 18, 2011 | 13 |
| Rafael Santillan | May 18, 2016 | 8 |
| Kelly George | May 20, 2015 | 9 |
Birthdays
| Don Stafford | May 14 |
| Tim Bemis | May 15 |
| Cadance Lowell | May 15 |
| Kristina Rainer | May 16 |
| Sally Martino | May 16 |
| Greg Hoffbauer | May 16 |
| Jim Long | May 17 |
| Carolyn Taylor | May 17 |
| Jack Anderson | May 18 |
| Amy Barker | May 19 |
| Mike Brubaker | May 19 |
CNO Donations – Since 2013
Click here to see a summary of donations the club has made since 2013
Thank You Notes Received
CLICK HERE to see the Thank You Notes received this week