Erin Dickerson’s Prayer
In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, Paul directs us to “put on the full armor of God so that when the day of evil comes you may be able to stand your ground […] with all of this take up the shield of faith” (Ephesians 6:11-16). Our sisters and brothers in blue take this directive to heart. Each day, they put on their uniform, place their badge over their hearts, and do their best to “never betray (their) badge, honor, integrity, character, or the public trust” and to “always have the courage to hold (themselves) and others accountable for (their) actions” as stated in the Law Enforcement Oath of Honor.
Lord,
Be an armor for our siblings in blue. Shield them with your protection, enlighten them with your wisdom, provide them with composure in every situation they face, and surround them with your everlasting love.
Amen.
Announcements
Fishing Derby
Bob Lawson announced the Fishing Derby will be on June 7, 2025. There are several volunteer opportunities available, and nearly all do not involve touching fish. Please sign up using the Member Calendar.
Castle Fishing Day
Erin Dickerson announced that Castle Fishing Day will be on June 9, 2025. There are several volunteer opportunities available, and nearly all do not involve touching fish. Please sign up using the Member Calendar.
Help Needed for Tom Frazier Tee Off for Youth Golf Classic
- Mike Bevis announced that sponsors and golfers are needed for our annual golf fundraiser. The event will be held on July 14, 2025.
- Vida McDowell announced her team is looking for donations for the gift baskets for the silent auction for the golf fundraiser.
- Steve Rau announced that as the volunteer coordinator he needs several volunteers for the day of the golf fundraiser. There are a lot of different tasks and for varying amounts of time. For more details and to sign up, use the Member Calendar.
Americana Booth
Karen Charnesky announced that at Americana this year there will be two booths side by side — one for the Youth Mental Health Initiative and one for the main club. She needs fifteen volunteers to share information at Americana about CNO and to sign up people for Avenue of Flags Please sign up using the Member Calendar.
Donation Requests Approved at the May 2025 Board Meeting
Paul Boeckman announced that $10,880.00 in grants were approved during the May 12, 2025, CNO Board meeting.
- $2580 to Watts Middle School PTO for outdoor picnic tables.
- $5700 to South Community YPH Day Treatment Program to feed children breakfast and lunch for 40 days during the summer break.
- $2400 to Hannah’s Treasure Chest that will be used to purchase nearly a quarter of a million diapers.
- $200.00 for an Eagle Scout Bench Project at Watts Middle School.
John P. Kalaman Respect for Law Awards 2025
Use this link to view the flyer that was on the tables at lunch today. The flyer has several details about the two recipients and information about John P. Kalaman.
About the CNO John P. Kalaman Respect for Law Awards
The Respect for Law program began in 1965 and has grown to be one of the most popular in Optimism, with 1500 Optimist clubs participating 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.
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, to receive the CNO Respect for Law Award. Each recipient receives a Respect for Law Award plaque.
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. The late Club member 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.
Introductions
Paul Boeckman introduced the emcee for today’s awards ceremony, Bob Burkman.
Bob introduced John P. Kalaman’s parents and CNO members John and Paul Kalaman. He also introduced Ruth O’Toole.
Bob Introduced Centerville Police Chief Matt Brown and Washington Township Police Director Captain Josh Samples who presented their organizations’ recipients.
Centerville Police Chief Matt Brown
Chief Matt Brown spoke about the awards for Communications/Records Specialist Brooke Cornett:
Thank you to the Centerville Noon Optimists. I want to give a special thanks to John and Paula, their family, and Ruth O’Toole and her family for the sacrifice they made for all of us. We are forever grateful and deeply indebted to you. Thank you as well for everything you do for our department—not just today, but every year. You’re always there, willing to help whether we ask or not, and we truly appreciate it.
Congratulations as well to Deputy Bowersox from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office on his well-deserved recognition.
Each year within our department, we accept nominations from all employees to recognize one of our own as Employee of the Year. This year’s recipient is Communications Specialist Brooke Cornett, one of our dispatchers, who has been with us for about seven years.
We have a specific set of criteria for nominees. Let me share that with you:
Nominees are employees who exhibit excellence through special accomplishments or through their daily commitment to the mission and values of the department. This is typically demonstrated through outstanding work, attention to detail, exemplary public service, and a positive, cooperative attitude with field personnel.
As part of the nomination process, coworkers submit memos explaining why their nominee deserves recognition. I always like to read a few excerpts to give you a sense of how highly their peers regard them.
Here’s what a few had to say about Brooke:
“Dispatcher Cornett is always thinking ahead and ready to assist officers. She regularly takes the lead in gathering information the officer will need—often having it in hand before they even ask. In September, Brooke was working in the Communications Center during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, handling hundreds of phone calls and radio transmissions related to storm damage. Her ability to multitask and juggle multiple duties at once is what makes her so successful. It was a great display of professionalism under pressure.”
In addition to her regular duties, Brooke is a Communications Training Officer, helping train new hires. She is also a certified drone operator and will soon be able to deploy drones from the dispatch center as part of our evolving capabilities.
Brooke also contributes outside of work duties—she’s a member of the John P. Kalaman Memorial Golf Tournament Committee, helping to organize the event every September.
It is my honor to introduce the 2024 City of Centerville Police Department Employee of the Year: Communications Specialist Brooke Cornett. Congratulations, Brooke!
Comments from Communications/Records Specialist Brooke Cornett
Communications/Records Specialist Brooke Cornett spoke:
I’m truly honored and grateful to receive this award. To be recognized among such knowledgeable, talented, and hardworking people is not only a surprise—it’s an incredible privilege.
Being part of a team that works hard, supports each other, and still finds time to laugh along the way is what makes this job so special.
I want to thank my family, my friends, and—most of all—caffeine, for their unwavering support, especially on those long and challenging days.
A special thank-you goes to my mom and my cousin for always bringing me food and adjusting to my unpredictable schedule, even when it meant changing family plans at the last minute—many times.
I also want to thank the sergeant who nominated me for this award. I’ll keep that nomination letter forever—because it’s the first and only time he’s ever told me, “Good job.”
Thank you all for this incredible honor. I truly appreciate it.
Washington Township Police Director Captain Josh Samples
Captain Josh Samples spoke about the award for Deputy Grafton Bowersox:
Good afternoon, everyone.
I want to start by thanking John and Paula Kalaman, Ruth O’Toole, the Centerville Noon Optimist Club, and the Yankee Trace Staff.
It is both an honor and a privilege to stand before you today to present the John P. Kalaman Award to one of our own — Deputy Grafton Bowersox.
Before I speak about Deputy Bowersox’s accomplishments, I want to take a moment to recognize and thank those who established and continue to uphold the John P. Kalaman Award. This award stands as a lasting tribute to the values of service, sacrifice, and integrity that John embodied—and it serves as a powerful reminder of the standard we all strive to uphold. We are grateful for this tradition, which allows us to recognize those who carry that legacy forward in their daily work.
Deputy Bowersox is a clear reflection of those principles and values. Throughout 2024 and into 2025, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the students and staff at our Schools. His work as a school resource officer has gone well beyond the call of duty.
Recognizing a critical need, Deputy Bowersox led the charge to reassess and formalize reunification plans at both our public and area private schools in the event of a critical incident. His persistence has brought decision-makers together in an effort to create real, practical contingency plans—plans that will protect lives when it matters most.
He didn’t stop there. Deputy Bowersox created and organized valuable resources—blueprints, coded entry information, and quick-reference materials—making them accessible to deputies on their MDTs. These tools will make all the difference in high-stress situations.
He also sought out and tested new door locking mechanisms to enhance school safety during active threats, and he continues to patrol campuses regularly, identify vulnerabilities, and provide solutions—quietly and without fanfare. The respect and trust he’s earned from students and staff alike are a direct result of his presence, his professionalism, and his compassion.
And when called upon to handle sensitive investigations, such as a recent complex case, Deputy Bowersox acted with exceptional care, diligence, and resolve—executing search warrants and handling every step of the case with integrity.
These actions, taken together, speak volumes. Deputy Bowersox is not only technically skilled and deeply committed—he embodies the positive, cooperative spirit this award was meant to honor. His attention to detail, calm under pressure, and genuine concern for others elevate not just our schools, but our entire agency.
Deputy Bowersox, on behalf of your supervisors and your peers, congratulations on receiving the 2025 John P. Kalaman Award.
And to those who created and continue to support this award, thank you. Your work allows us to recognize excellence, to honor those who go above and beyond, and to keep the legacy of service alive.
Thank you
Comments from School Resource Officer Deputy Grafton Bowersox
Deputy Grafton Bowersox spoke:
Good afternoon.
I’d like to begin by expressing my sincere appreciation and gratitude to the Centerville Noon Optimist Club for the honor of receiving this prestigious award. I’m deeply humbled to accept it.
To the Kalaman and O’Toole families—thank you for the privilege of continuing a legacy of service. I am truly honored.
To my parents, my siblings, and most importantly, my wife and children, thank you for your unwavering support throughout my 20 years of service with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.
Anyone who loves or knows someone in law enforcement understands the sacrifices that come with standing in the gap between order and chaos. The lonely nights, missed holidays and family events, long hours, and public criticism are never easy. But the families who stand behind the men and women of the thin blue line are invaluable. Their support should never go unnoticed.
Over the past two decades, I’ve had the privilege of serving the citizens of Montgomery County in a variety of roles and under many great leaders. From my early days as a corrections officer in the jail, to working in the courts and patrolling the roads as a deputy, and now in my current role as a School Resource Officer (SRO) with Centerville City Schools—each position has presented unique and often challenging opportunities for growth. Through it all, I’ve been blessed with outstanding leadership to guide me.
I want to extend a special thank you to the leaders—past and present—who encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and pursue the SRO position. Serving as an SRO has become a true passion of mine. I’ve been grateful for the opportunity to partner with Centerville Schools to help maintain a safe and supportive environment for students and staff.
I’ve also appreciated the opportunity to work with the Centerville Noon Optimists through programs like Safetyville Square, which teaches safety to our youngest learners. It’s a joy to be part of something that positively shapes the future of our community.
In closing, I’m reminded of Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before others, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” That verse has been a guiding principle throughout my career. It reminds me that true success isn’t about personal accolades, but about the impact we have on others.
By striving for excellence, acting with integrity, and showing kindness, I aim to reflect the values I hold dear. I trust that through the Lord’s guidance, I’ve been able to let His light shine through me—to inspire, uplift, and ultimately, to bring honor to Him.
Thank you.
Final Thoughts
From Bob Burkman:
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.
President Paul’s Quote of the Week
“Dream big and dare to fail.” – Norman Vaughan
Volunteer and Social Event Signups Available Online with the Virtual Clipboard
Did you know you can now sign up to volunteer or participate in social events using a simple online registration form from your phone or PC? The Member Calendar has a complete list of upcoming volunteer opportunities and social events.
Welcome Guests
| Guest | Guest Of |
| Bob Kalaman | John and Paula Kalaman |
| Jacob Dice | Gail Aiken |
| Kristen Lough | Cindy Lowndes |
| Mark Peters | Maha Kashani |
| Michael Horton | Teresa Nichols |
| Ronda Kalaman | John and Paula Kalaman |
| Ruth O’Toole | Program |
| Sam Williams | Larry Lynde |
| Sarah Swan | Mike Thonnerieux |
| Shawn Williams | Larry Lynde |
| Tyler Wilson | Bob Glavin |
New Member Readings and Inductions
No readings nor inductions this week.
Happy Bucks
| Member | Reason |
| Julie Walling Noeth | Who would have thought a White Sox fan would ever be Pope? |
| Beth Duncan | $5, Connie Risch is the new chair of the Social Committee. |
| Don Stafford | Happy we did not have to hear Happy Birthday being sung today. |
| Bob Glavin | He has a new grandchild from his son Nick and his wife. |
| Michael Horton | $5, He was happy to be at today’s meeting as a guest of Teresa Nichols. |
| Tom Conroy | $5, Tom Novak was able to easily close a donation to the Golf Outing Fundraiser from the manager of Pet Supplies Plus while they were putting in five flag sleeves at the store. Tom was only ever able to get him to say he was still deciding. |
| Wes Feldmeyer | He is the Director of Development for Heart Challenge. Recently a child who received a heart transplant is starting back to school. |
| Paula Kalaman | She and John thanked CNO for honoring their son John P. Kalaman each year with the “Respect for Law” Award and thank you to the recipients for all they do. |
| Paula Kalaman | $5, This weekend they had several houses guests including children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. |
| Tia Papp | $5, Her baby will be arriving at the latest by June 2, 2025 when she will be induced and her husband just got a new job with the public works department. |
| Bob Burkman | For everyone that recognized that Gary Anderson was not at today’s meeting. |
Sergeants at Arms – Gary Anderson and Maha Kashani
| Member | Infraction |
| Larry Lynde | Mentioned having partners in crime while the room was half filled with police officers. Additionally his mentee for Will Cale was there who is studying Law Enforcement at Sinclair. |
| Jay McAlpine | He is now fined after not having been fined since his son, Chris McAlpine, was President of CNO. |
| Scott Langer | Sergeant Maha said he was fined, “Just because.” |
| Bob Myers | Fined for disappointing the poll workers because he did not stop by to teach them new dance steps like in past years. |
| Paul Boeckman | He lost the bell and gavel, AGAIN! |
Club Membership Anniversaries
| Member | Joined | Years |
| Brendan Cunningham | May 15, 2018 | 7 |
| Wendy Hattan | May 15, 2018 | 7 |
| David Ladd | May 16, 2012 | 13 |
| Dean Lundgren | May 17, 2022 | 3 |
| Rick Hartley | May 17, 2022 | 3 |
| Claire Kerr | May 17, 2022 | 3 |
| Megan Dalton | May 17, 2022 | 3 |
| Jim Marker | May 18, 2011 | 14 |
| Bill DeShurko | May 18, 2011 | 14 |
| Rafael Santillan | May 18, 2016 | 9 |
Birthdays
| Don Stafford | May 14 |
| Tim Bemis | May 15 |
| Cadance Lowell | May 15 |
| Greg Hoffbauer | May 16 |
| Sally Martino | May 16 |
| Kristina Rainer | 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
Links to PowerPoint and Pictures
CLICK HERE to see the PowerPoint Slides from this week’s meeting