the Safety Signal January 2011 A new year, a new decade, and a new administration

“Michael Thompson has more to offer in state his first promotion and was dedicated his life to protecting government,” said Thompson. assigned to the Training the people of and the “I saw OHP as the pinnacle of division at the rank of second ,” said then law enforcement in Oklahoma. lieutenant. In February 2000, governor-elect Mary Fallin It was a dream of mine to wear he was promoted to first upon her appointment lieutenant and assigned of the new troop commander of commissioner. “I am Training. happy to be “As given the commandant, the opportunity to one thing I was select a DPS particularly proud commissioner of was the 51st whose and 52nd competence academies. I was and really close with commitment to those who came our state have through those been proven academies, as many times well as everyone over.” else, but The especially those new governor guys,” said announced the Thompson. appointment in New Commissioner Mike Thompson (middle) In October 2003, late December selected Col. Kerry Pettingill (left) to serve as then commissioner as Thompson, chief of the highway patrol and Lt. Col. Bob Ricks a major in the Ricky Adams to serve the civilian side of the highway agency as assistant commissioner. (Continued) patrol, was appointed commissioner as the uniform. I applied three If you would like to well as cabinet secretary of times before I was accepted; submit information or safety and security. and would have applied a a story idea to be Thompson is a graduate fourth time.” published please send of the 45th Oklahoma Highway Thompson’s first your information to Patrol Academy in 1990. assignment was Grady County Public Information “When I turned 21, I in Troop G until May 1995 Officer Deanna was working for the Dept. of when he transferred to Hargus, editor, via e- Corrections and it didn’t take Oklahoma County with Troop mail to me long to realize there was A. In October 1998 he recieved [email protected] or call 405-425-7708. - 1 - Commissioner (Con’d.) promoted him to captain, and to pursue a degree when he through legislation, Thompson learned he would never make it was moved to the rank of major. passed the rank of captain without During his career with it. the OHP, Thompson has “What motivated me was simultaneously built a career when I was told I would just die with the Oklahoma National on the vine and never be promoted Guard, ultimately being past caption if I didn’t go out and promoted to colonel. He get a degree,” Thompson said. currently serves as commander “They told me I couldn’t be of the 90th Troop Command. promoted while possessing only He is a combat veteran who was basic requirements. I took that awarded the Bronze Star and conversation to heart and Combat Infantry badge after two completed my school. It was tours of duty in Iraq. He also pretty fast-paced there for awhile.” received the Humanitarian Commissioner Mike Thompson Thompson and Fallin Service Medal after his share something in common. deployment to New They are firsts in their Orleans in the aftermath of appointed and elected positions, Hurricane Katrina. respectively. Fallin is the first “I have to say that woman governor of the state, one thing I am most proud and Thompson the first black of during my years with the commissioner. Guard side of the house is To that Thompson said, what we accomplished in “I’m just happy to have the New Orleans beginning opportunity to be judged on my August 31, 2005,” merit.” Thompson said. “I had just In early January, started directing and Thompson announced Lt. Col. welcoming cadets for the Kerry Pettingill would be next academy when I got a promoted to colonel and serve call from my executive Commissioner Mike Thompson also as the new chief of the highway officer who said, ‘hey sir, serves as colonel and command of the patrol, and shortly thereafter you’ve got to be in New 90th Troop Command, Oklahoma announced his appointment of Orleans by 1900 hours.’ It National Guard. Lt. Col. Ricky Adams to serve was two days after the as assistant commissioner. levees broke following the Thompson earned a “I think both of them have hurricane, and I was called to the graduate degree in applied science all the tools to be successful, and city of New Orleans to command from Oklahoma State University I’m going to rely very heavily on and control while conducting and a graduate degree in national them for both the highway patrol support and recovery operations. security and strategic studies from and the civilian side,” said It is one of the things I’m most the United States Army War Thompson. proud of because I believe we College. He is also a graduate of really made a difference for those both the FBI National Academy people. I could see the difference and the Secret Service National we made.” I learned the Threat Assessment Center. He importance of placing the right received his undergraduate degree people in the right positions and from Langston University. how critical that was for effective Referring to his education, communications.” Thompson said he was motivated

- 2 - Commissioner calls new chief ‘a great leader’

Over 100 people Lt. Col. Greg Allen Patrol as well. He’s going to be gathered to honor and welcome called everyone together as a great leader; a chief who can the new chief of the Oklahoma OHP Chaplain Highway Patrol including Sam Garner troopers, dignitaries, DPS opened the

Serving in the same academy, former chief Jerry Cason (top left) visits with Col. Kerry Pettingill and Commissioner Mike Thomp- son. Pettingill (above) introduced the members of his family and then bowed (left) in prayer along with Thompson and his wife Debbie. employees, friends and ceremony with families. On January 31, as prayer. many as seven photographers Commissioner and multiple media cameras Mike Thompson welcomed make tough choices. We’re just recorded the ceremony as Lt. those gathered for the thrilled to have him.” Col. Kerry Pettingill, most ceremony. Thompson introduced recently director of Oklahoma’s “Thank you for taking two speakers who he said were Homeland Security Office, was time out of your day to be here instrumental in Pettingill’s promoted to the rank of colonel and be a part of this,” said career over the years. Former to serve as the 25th chief of the Thompson. “A lot of smiles commissioner Bob Ricks, chief highway patrol. The ceremony today because this is absolutely of the Edmond Police was a tradition that has been a great day. It’s a big day for Department, took the podium resurrected after four years of Kerry Pettingill, and it’s a big first. dormancy. day for the Oklahoma Highway - 3 - Chief (Con’d.)

The standing-room-only crowd (above, clockwise) listens as former chief Jerry Cason speaks of attending the academy with Col. Kerry Pettingill. Former commissioner Bob Ricks spoke of appointing Pettingill director of Homeland Security, and Commissioner Mike Thompson reads the personnel order to Pettingill and wife Melissa promoting Pettingill to colonel and the new chief of the highway patrol.

“Chief Pettingill. Has a potential. Too many nice ring to it, doesn’t it?” said people do not fulfill that Ricks. “I think the way you potential, and fortunately we national government, we had determine success of an have some that do, and Chief no direction from the state individual, is by what they have Pettingill is one of those government, and as usual, we done in the past. We too often individuals. had absolutely no direction look at someone’s potential, we “We were burdened from the state legislature. But I look at their degrees, we look at after the events of 911 to create had to reach out and find the their credentials, and we say the Office of Homeland individual whom I thought had ‘that person is bound to Security ... with nothing. We the capability of doing that. succeed.’ But so often we are had no precedent to go on. We That one individual was Chief disappointed by that word, had no direction from the Pettingill who, on his own

- 4 - Chief (Con’d.) shoulders, put together a team who was ultimately judged by experts who came in and reviewed, and said that we were the top homeland security office in the country. Most had failed in what they tried to do. But through Chief Pettingill’s efforts, our bottom line, our sole purpose was committed to making sure that the residents and citizens of Oklahoma got their money’s worth. That when we were done we would Col. Kerry Pettingill and his family, including four of his seven have measurable objectives on grandchildren. our ability to deter and to respond; to make sure that we had the capabilities of dealing with all the tragedies and wonderful time. I am so proud Ricks said, Kerry took that potential attacks that we would of you. You know you never homeland security operation ... have upon our state. really know a person unless well, he took the ball and ran “I think you could be you’ve walked in his shadow, with it. But prior to that, Kerry justly proud for the efforts that or shared his shoes. Sometimes was given the task to run the he has made. And as a result of I feel I’ve done both. Kerry and bomb squad. It was a volunteer those efforts I think that you I went through the academy operation, and we gave him an can be assured that we have the together. I never saw a young office in the training center in right man for the job, at a time man so dedicated, so focused an old bedroom, and he went when a leader is needed for the on where he wanted to go. I from there. I don’t know if . can honestly say I believe Kerry most of you are aware of our “You have was born to be a trooper. He bomb squad today, but as far as demonstrated that you are a was energetic and one of the I’m concerned, it’s number one leader, and that’s the most young guys in the group. He in the nation. That’s how important trait you need for this was a strapping young man dedicated Kerry is. That’s how new job. We’re so proud of who couldn’t wait to get out focused he is about getting you, and where you’re going to there and get after it. things done. He has always take the Oklahoma Highway “I didn’t know where been that way. I’ve seen him at Patrol. God bless you in your Mangum, Oklahoma was until I times when we cried together, efforts,” said Ricks. met Kerry,” joked Cason. and then I’ve seen him just Former highway patrol “Over the years our paths stand up and get back after it; it chief Jerry Cason, Pettingill’s continued to cross one another. didn’t bring him down. I was litter mate in the 39th OHP I had seen so much potential. amazed. I’ve shared such times academy, spoke of his pride for And we would talk, and we with comrades in combat in the new chief. would argue points, and as Viet Nam, and then I look at “Kerry, what a former commissioner Bob Kerry and say, here’s a guy that - 5 - Chief (Con’d.) even through tragedy, was born “You all know that me choices. That’s what the field’s to be a leader. Through it all, being chosen as the crying out for, and that’s what through the tears he continued commissioner of public safety they’re going to get from Kerry

Col. Kerry Pettingill (above) visits with brother-in-law Dustin Lively (left). Family members of the new chief in attendance also included Pettingill’s nieces Landry (second from left) and Linsi Lively, his sister Tuni Lively and also Debbie Thompson, wife of Commissioner Mike Thompson. In the family photo were grandson Dax Lenard and niece Landry Lively.

to move and to motivate others came very sudden, and one of Pettingill. He’s absolutely to move. the key things I had to do very going to deliver. And I can sit “We have laughed quickly was to figure out who up here and talk about all the together. Our families have was going to be the chief of the things he’s done but as usual, shared times together ... when I highway patrol. It is probably Jerry Cason stole some of my was informed that Kerry was one of the most important thunder,” joked Thompson. going to be the next chief of the decisions I have to make, and “If you’ll look at the highway patrol, I said to will have to make, as bomb squad facility behind our myself, the highway patrol is in commissioner. I had some training center ... that’s all there great hands. I’m so proud of very, very good folks to choose because of Kerry Pettingill. you. God bless you and the from. It came down to making Before that, it was a parking highway patrol.” the decision of choosing Kerry lot. If you look at what he’s Thompson thanked Pettingill, and I think he’s done for homeland security, Cason for participating. going to do some absolutely that’s all because of his “My remarks will be outstanding things. diligence and persistence to get brief because it’s Kerry “The thing about Kerry that off the ground to where it Pettingill’s day, and it’s an is that he has the moral and is today. The thing about Chief awesome day,” said Thompson. personal courage to make tough Pettingill - which I’m starting

- 6 - Chief (Con’d.) to like the ring of that - it really journey by walking through the had a baby girl last night.’ So I doesn’t matter what we say doors of the Robert Lester had been up all night with no because what we do is far more Training Center. All I wanted sleep, had to get home and get a important than what we say. to do was be was a trooper. I uniform put together. He And what Kerry Pettingill is never even dreamed that I showed up, and we went to going to do is going to be the would have any of the work. I didn’t take three right thing, every day. I believe opportunities that I’ve had, and months off. I didn’t take one that’s in his heart. do the things I’ve been able to day off,” said Pettingill. “We “I would like to do. went to work, and I was very introduce to your our next “Funny thing, our excited to be at work, and I chief, Kerry Pettingill.” graduation date for the 39th really didn’t think there was an As Pettingill option. I had to go to work. approached the stage, “So Kara was born on Thompson read the that day, and the odd thing personnel orders promoting “The thing about about it is, tomorrow is my Pettingill to colonel. first official day as chief of “I’m very, very Kerry is that he the Oklahoma Highway excited about the opportunity has the moral and Patrol, and tomorrow is my to become chief. I don’t take other daughter Lacy’s it lightly as most of you in personal courage birthday, “ said Pettingill. this room know,” said “So probably the two biggest Pettingill. He introduced his to make tough days of my life are shared family members who filled choices.” with them. the first three rows in the “I’m very honored and audience, then spoke of his - - Commissioner Thompson humbled to be able to serve new position beforing asking in this position, I know it’s a former chiefs Jerry Biggers temporary thing. In and Jerry Cason to pin on his Oklahoma we’ve only had 25 collar brass. Biggers served as academy was August 20, 1982 chiefs. Some, I noticed as I chief when Pettingill was a new which happend to be my looked at the wall of former trooper. His wife Melissa daughter Kara’s due date,” said chiefs, were here a very short pinned on his badge. Pettingill. amount of time. Some were Thompson read the But just days later on there for a year, and some were official personnel orders August 31, at 6 a.m., his break- there for the same year. Now promoting Pettingill to colonel. in partner Trp. Bill Runyan calculate that. “Yesterday my brother-in-law arrived to pick him up for his “The job requires and I were talking about the first official day of wearing the certain things, and the new Speaker of the House for uniform of a state trooper. commissioner has expressed to the U.S. Congress, and how we “We got in the car and me his desires, and my job now was a crier. Now I’m a bit Bill asked me, ‘are you is to push these things out concerned,” joked the new excited?’ I said, ‘yes sir.’ He across the state to the members chief. said, ‘you look like you haven’t of the Oklahoma Highway “Twenty-eight years and had any sleep,’ I said, ‘no sir, I Patrol. When the nine months ago I started this - 7 - Chief (Con’d.) commissioner and I first talked be his chief. I can’t imagine the stage, Thompson concluded the about it, I was very excited responsibility he had at that ceremony. about becoming the chief. But time to create this, as it was the “Well, I think it’s pretty I also told him, I didn’t want to cornerstone of our agency that obvious you can see why I be the chief if I couldn’t be the we are today. Not much has picked the person I did. His chief. I didn’t want the job. I really changed. passion for this organization is wanted to be chief. And he The commissioner said unquestionable,” said said, ‘you’re the chief.’ So with ‘what’s your first thing,’ and I Thompson. “there’s one thing I that comes tremendous said, get back to the basics. His can say is a good thing about responsibility on my part. I mantra is to do the right thing being commissioner. With all stepped up and was talking the or do what’s right. That’s all these choices to make, it’s nice talk, now he says it’s time to we have to do. Seems to be a to choose someone I can walk the walk. And that’s what very simple thing. legitimately call a friend, and we’re going to do. Unfortunately, not all simple I’m proud to do that. “There’s not a lot that things are that easy. But that’s “Thank you all for we really need to do. I’m very what we’ll do. coming. You helped us proud of the highway patrol, “I want to do the same reestablish a tradition we and I want all the members of things here as I did when I took haven’t had for awhile. It the Oklahoma Highway Patrol over the Office of Homeland doesn’t matter if someone’s to be proud of the Oklahoma Security. I said that whenever I getting promoted to lieutenant Highway Patrol. I want you to walked out that door, I wanted or chief of the highway patrol; be proud that you are a trooper. to be able to look out across the we’re going to have a ceremony I want the people of this state to state and say, ‘we did a good to recognized that. We’re going be proud of you as their thing.’ And that’s what I want to eat stale cookies and tell old ambassadors, as you reach out to do when I leave this office ... stories. That’s what we need to in every county of the state and hold my head high and say I did do as part of our tradition.” make contact with people. a good thing. Whether that’s a That’s our job. And our job is year from now, four years from to work with other law now or eight years from now. enforcement and fire services Whatever it might be, I’m and emergency management determined to do that. services. We have a huge “In my office, the office responsibility to do that. Each of the chief, I will keep four one of you, as you’re out there, people in mind. Leon Bench, represent me, and we represent David Nalley and Joe Nicole the commissioner. And so from my patrol school, were accountability is one thing that killed in the line of duty. Also we have to do to uphold the killed in the line of duty, Rocky integrity of the great Eales. I will think of those four organization. men every day. I promise you “In 1937 when Gov. that.” Marland signed legislation Following a standing creating the Dept. of Public ovation as the chief exited the Safety, he picked Jack Hitch to

- 8 - Construction workers thank trooper for saving their lives State and national going. The second attempt headlines read, “Oklahoma rendered the same state troopers saves many lives outcome. But with mere by risking his own.” seconds left, approximately 100 feet Trp. Patrick Venable away from the truck was posted at a construction making contact with the zone when out of a nowhere a construction workers, truck traveling at a high rate of Venable knew the driver speed almost crashes his patrol could not stop so he car. The truck continues on pinned the truck against driving straight through a the rail, forcing it to closed construction zone on a finally come to a stop with bridge where about 10 men just 20 feet to spare. were actively working. Venable reported Featured on several website, Trp. About a half-mile from smelling alcohol upon Patrick Venable is praised for saving the closed-off section, Venable opening the driver’s door, the lives of a crew of construction had been sitting stationary and it was later realized workers. inside the construction zone that the driver’s alcohol with his lights flashing when level was .23. Failure the truck drove right through to stop, obstructing an the traffic cones and came close officer and DUI were to crashing the rear of his patrol later filed on the driver. car. Throwing his car in gear, The Oklahoma Venable was able to quickly Department of move out of the path of the Transportation thanked truck. He then attempted to Venable for his heroic stop the driver who appeared to actions and fine work be oblivious to the lights and in keeping their continued his path to workers safe. The devastation. construction crew members thanked Speaking for the crew, one construction His training techniques Venable for saving worker said about Venable’s quick actions, taking over, Venable attempted their lives. They had “We thank the hell out of him.” a tactical vehicle intervention been grouped together maneuver by and the driver would His patrol car video have potentially taken them all later showed the TVI was out in one shot according to executed with precision, worker Michael Hall who said, momentarily slowing the truck “When you see someone like whose driver managed to that coming toward your guys, correct his truck and keep it just bothers you real bad.”

- 9 - Venable (Con’d.)

On a return visit to the construction site, Venable talks with some of the workers who were on duty that night.

A national website weighs in with e-mailer’s comments: “A job well done. These stories inspire me to join law enforcement. I’can’t wait to go from the Army to a police officer. Keep up the good work.”

“I believe that this trooper showed the best that a law enforcement officer does, and I believe we need more law enforcement officers of his kind on the streets and highways of this great country!!!”

“God bless Trooper Venable and all our brothers and sisters on law enfrocement who put themselves in harm’s way and are rarely recognized for the outstanding job they do!”

“Wer nicht fachren kan, mus autoprüfung abgeben.” (A comment posted from Germany loosely translated said, if the driver doesn’t know how to drive, he should relinquish his license.)

- 10 - Troopers provide security for inauguration ceremony

Braving a cold, snowy day in January, thousands of Oklahomans gathered to honor the first woman governor at her inauguration ceremony at the state Capitol, January 10. Gov. Mary Fallen was sworn in as troopers and highway patrol staff coordinated and executed stepped-up security measures.

We used every asset at our disposal to ensure the safety of all who attended this historic event,” said Capt. Pete Norwood.

Just days before, a crazed Arizona gunman had shot and killed six people, injuring many during a rampage in a Tucson grocery store. One of the victims he injured was United States Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords who received a

Troopers were posted all around the state Capitol complex during inauguration ceremonies.

gunshot wound to the head. As details and south steps of the state Capitol. He said the number motivation had yet to be evaluated, Oklahoma of tactical officers assigned to the Capitol was Highway Patrol personnel tightened security doubled following the shooting. measures surrounding all things inaugural. “Security was an important issue even prior Norwood said more than 50 troopers were to the unfortunate incident that took place in on hand for the inaugural ceremonies held on the

- 11 - Trp. Ryan Fike and police service dog Kilo patrol in win- Inauguration (con’d.) tery conditions while during the inauguration. Capt. Gary Vinson (bottom left) is posted near the inaugural stage and Arizona,” said Norwood. “We Trp. Jason Lanier (bottom right) stands facing the crowd always prepare for the worst throughout the ceremony. scenario possible and the inauguration was no exception. We did not increase our presence, but with the tragedy in Tucson fresh on our minds, we did focus our attention and used our personnel in more strategic positions.”

The highway patrol’s emergency response team, tactical team, bomb squad, executive security, OSBI, the Joint Terrorism Task Force, police, and troopers with Troop A and Troop R all played roles to ensure the event was safe and memorable.

Uniformed officers were present “All involved in the “The historic event was on every floor of the state Capitol security of this event gave uneventful, and that’s just the way Monday morning, as bomb- maximum effort and deserve the we like it.” sniffing dogs roamed the grounds. highest praise,” Norwood said.

- 12 - OHP captain delivers surprising stats Printed by permission Ada Evening News By Randy Mitchell, city editor

An Oklahoma Highway driving crashes. He said 24 that you passed on the road? Patrol captain visited Ada percent of crashes on county These people are out there at all Monday and made available roads were caused by drunk times.” some surprising statistics. drivers.

Ronnie Hampton, “When you think of the Hampton said OHP captain of OHP Troop F, guest crashes that occurred (on makes about 150 drunk driving speaker at a weekly Ada arrests in Pontotoc County Kiwanis meeting, said the every year. number of drunk driving crashes in Pontotoc County Drunk driving is the is alarming. second leading cause of crashes in Pontotoc County. “One of the things — Unsafe speed is the leading as we got to looking at cause with driver inattention Pontotoc County — that being third. really stood out is the amount of drunk-driving crashes that He said he is pleased occurred in this county with how aggressive compared to the other six prosecutors are when it comes counties that we have (in to drunk driving cases. Troop F which covers Pontotoc County District Pontotoc, Murray, Garvin, Attorney Chris Ross and his Johnston, Love and Carter Ronnie Hampton, captain of assistants and Carter County counties),” Hampton said. Oklahoma Highway Patrol District Attorney Craig Ladd “In 2010, we investigated 10 Troop F, speaks about and his assistants are tough on crashes that resulted in driving safety at an Ada DUIs and successful at someone dying. A total of 12 Kiwanis luncheon meeting prosecuting the crimes, people were killed in Monday. (Photo: Randy according to Hampton. Pontotoc County in 2010 in Mitchell, Ada Evening the crashes that we News) “I believe in Pontotoc responded to. What I found County, 93 percent of the DUI surprising was in eight of county roads) in 2010, 24 arrests we made got some those (deaths), the driver was percent were DUI wrecks,” form of conviction,” Hampton drunk. That’s pretty Hampton said. “That’s just the said. significant.” people who crashed their car and required the police to come In an effort to prevent He said 18 percent of all to the scene. How many other all crashes, Hampton said crashes investigated by OHP in (drunks) didn’t crash their car Troop F will soon start using Pontotoc County were drunk aircraft to monitor State Highway 19 (where many - 13 - Stats (Con’d.) crashes occur) and other Hampton said the areas “About 47 percent of problem areas. Aircraft can are called collision corridors our crashes that we investigated follow a vehicle until a trooper and troopers are given maps in 2010 in Pontotoc County can conduct a traffic stop. which show when and where occurred on highways,” most crashes occur so they can Hampton said. “If you take out “We are marking those police the areas as needed. He the under one percent that segments of road where our also spoke of crashes on county happened inside a town, the rest aircraft will be able to not only roads. were county road accidents.” monitor speed, but also monitor a lot moving the violations,” “When you look Hampton said studies specifically at Pontotoc County show most county road crashes we only have about 126 miles are single vehicle and occur “ ... 93 percent of US and state highways that when a driver runs off the road, we (OHP) have responsibility overcorrects and then of the DUI over,” Hampton said. “There overturns. He said most are maybe more than that in the crashes (58 percent) happen arrests we county but it would fall (within when people reach for the jurisdiction) of a police something in the vehicle and made got some department which actually has take their eyes off the road. its own police officers. Less form of than one percent of the crashes “About 50 percent of conviction,” we investigate in Pontotoc those county roads are County take place inside of a blacktop,” Hampton said. “If said Hampton. city limits that doesn’t have an you think about what a county operating police department.” road is, it’s a blacktop road where people can now drive Hampton said. “For instance, He said there are 900 highway speeds, but it’s built to State Highway 19 between miles of county road in about a 1960 standard, which Stratford and Ada, the biggest Pontotoc County. means it’s 24-feet-wide, it has problem there is people passing drop-offs, there’re no shoulders in no-passing zones and people and a lot of them aren’t turning in front of other traffic.” marked.”

He said other problem areas are SH 1E within three miles of Ada, SH 3W within four miles of Ada and SH 1 from Ada to the Chickasaw Turnpike. The majority of crashes on those highways occurs Monday through Friday from 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.

- 14 - Local lodge hosts Troop F Christmas dinner On Thursday, December 9, 2010, the they host the event, but they grilled steaks and OHP Troop F employees annual Christmas chicken and provided side dishes for everyone,” dinner and troop meeting was hosted by the said Cpt. Ronnie Hampton, commander. “We Ardmore Masonic Lodge. Ardmore Masons were very appreciative of the Masons, and Phillip Eggenberg and Sam Barrick volunteered especially to Phillip and Sam for their to host the event at their lodge. “Not only did hospitality.” Troop F hosted a large number of retired members, troopers and their families.

Troopers, retired troopers, familes and friends enjoy an evening of celebration at the Troop F Christmas party hosted by the Ardmore Ma- sonic Lodge in December 2010.

- 15 - Members of the Troop F highway patrol headquarters

“Over the last two Utilizing the newly photographs for the troopers. years, Troop F has been blessed arranged detachment schedules, “The entire troop was to have several new troopers which allows every trooper to able to come in for the pictures transfer into the troop,” said have weekends off every other even though some were on Cpt. Ronnie Hampton, month and has every trooper, annual or holiday leave,” said commander. lieutenant and captain working Hampton. “I think this shows With new troopers on Thursdays, all of the how important it is to these moving in, and the recent members of Troop F arrived at troopers to be apart of their addition of Marshall County headquarters on a Thursday in troop. This is a great group for and its four troopers, the Troop December for picture day. A us to be apart of.” F commander saw this as the local photographer came and perfect opportunity to took two styles of troop document its growth of the pictures and then took several troop through photographs. different types of detachment

- 16 - Troop F troopers show their appreciation Printed by permission The Daily Ardmoreite

Oklahoma Highway Patrol Capt. Ronnie “The members of this lodge have been Hampton (sixth from left), commander Troop F, invaluable with their support of the troopers in presented Masonic Lodge members Sam Barrick this area,” said Hampton. “We are very (fourth from left) and Phillip Eggenburg (fifth appreciative of each of them. Although this is from left) with an appreciation plaque Friday at but a small token of our appreciation, it is a clear troop headquarters in Ardmore. Hampton made acknowledgement from every trooper in this the presentation on on behalf of all troopers in area.” Troop F. Trooper Mark Glenn (left), Trooper The plaque recognizes the organization’s Casey Hall, Trooper Mark Basinger, Barrick, continued support and dedication to Oklahoma Eggenberg, Hampton, Trooper Darian Galloway, Highway Patrol. The local lodge has been Trooper Rocky Northcutt, Trooper Ken Duncan fundamental in raising funds for local troopers to and Trooper Brian Quinn were all a part of the purchase county radios which allows them to presentation. Photo: Don Alquist, The Daily stay in touch with local police agencies. The Ardmoreite lodge also sponsored a Christmas party for Troop F troopers and their families.

- 17 - eViews

Trp. Jimmy Chaloupek Trp. Richard Humphreys Title: Highway Patrol Appreciation Title: Trooper Humphries

Comment Comment:

On 12/16/2010, I was pulled over for On January 8, 2011 at approximately speeding by Trooper Jim Chaloupek (J439). 2 a.m., we ran out of gas on Interstate 44 Trooper Chaloupek was courteous and eastbound at MP 195. After calling 911, the treated me with respect as he wrote me the aforementioned trooper arrived in about five ticket ... I appreciate Trooper Chaloupek. minutes. He was extremely cordial and My experience with Trooper Chaloupek accommodating. He transported me to buy leads me to believe that there are other a gas can and then to a service station so I decent Troopers out there. could purchase fuel. I was an Illinois state trooper for 30 Sincerely, years and am always proud to see a fellow Tyler Gipson trooper who is so professional.

Godspeed! Skip Nelson

- 18 - eViews (Con’d.)

Trp. Charles Criddle

Title: Thank you to Trooper Criddle

Comment:

Driving down Interstate 44 last week I got a flat tire and was stuck on the side of the road. While trying to reach someone to come help, Trooper Criddle stopped to see if I needed assistance. Even though it was a very cold and windy day he offered to change my tire and made sure that I got back safely on the road. Thank you to Trooper Criddle!

- 19 - Good Samaritan returns employee’s wallet Reprinted by permission By Sarah Stewart, KFOR News

Anyone who has lost a very shocking,” Dodd purse or wallet knows that said. feeling of absolute despair. But one Oklahoma City man says But lucky for what could’ve been a major Dodd, the person who mess, turned into an encounter found his wallet was with a good samaritan. Earl Weldon, an off duty very, very appreciative of what security officer. he did,” Dodd said. “I would say I started the new year on a very good Weldon says he looked Weldon says he’s had note and I hope that will keep down and spotted the wallet in his wallet stolen twice, and me through the rest of the the parking lot and was never got anything back. year,” said Branford Dodd. shocked to find more than $200 inside, along with a driver’s So he knows what it Dodd was shopping at license and credit cards. feels like and said it was a no- the Shoe Carnival in the Belle brainer to do the right thing. ”It’s my job. It’s what I Isle shopping center the day Dodd, though, knows after Christmas. do for a living so I try to help people out as much as I can. not everyone is cut from that Once he left the store, That’s why I’m a security same mold, and pays Weldon he realized his wallet was officer,” Weldon said. the highest compliment. missing. Dodd says he was Dodd said, “This day ”A feeling of emptiness. ecstatic to have his wallet back and time, you know, you can’t I was really very destroyed with everything intact. find Good Samaritans like him. because, you know, this day And so as far as I’m concerned, and time with identity theft and ”It could’ve gone the he’s my hero.” all those things going on, it was other way very easily. So I was - 20 - Employee elves spread Christmas cheer

This is the third year that DPS employee Lori Swanson volun- teered her time, services and re- sources to play a Christmas elf to the special children of Oklahoma City who are associated with Ally’s House. First she recruited several other elves in DPS employees, some as far away as Troop J in Enid.

“Thanks so much to all of the generous gifts to Michael (right) from his elves! He absolutely loved everything and plays with it nonstop. We hope all of you had a blessed holiday season and want you to know how appreciated your thoughtfulness is! Happy New Year!” -- Micheal’s Mother

Then when some employees and divisions simply handed her money, Swanson put on her elf hat and went shopping. Many children received extra Christmas gifts under their trees thanks to the efforts of DPS employ- ees. “DPS really saved the day on our elf program,” said Linda Webb, Ally’s House executive director. “As an agency, they shopped for so many of our kids, and spoiled each and every one! We were over- whelmed by the compassion and generosity of all involved.” The gifts were puchased, wrapped and then delivered to the organization by Swanson. “We especially want to thank Lori who served as liaison and

- 21 - Ally’s House (Con’d.) coordinator, and - of course - tireless shopper! makes you want to do more next year. The kids Thanks DPS for being our kids’ Christmas are what’s it’s all about.” elves!” said Webb. This year, of the 90 families helped by “Thanks, that’s so sweet,” said Swanson. the project, DPS employees help 13 of them. “I love helping the kiddos. The photos and thank That total number is up from 79 families last you notes and been priceless. It really is great to year. see that the kids have enjoyed all the presents. It “We thank you so much,” said Webb. “You guys are awesome!”

Dear Molly’s Elf,

Thank you so very much for all the presents you gave Molly. She was overjoyed. As her parents we thank you for making our little girl feel special during this challenging time in her life. We are thankful for generous and caring people like you who take time to show a lot of love! God bless you!

Sincerely, Molly’s parents - 22 - Gracious gifts from an employee’s mother

Editor’s note: You may have noticed at least one of the children in the Ally’s House photos wearing a crocheted cap. It was handmade and donated by the mother of Heidi Davis, Help Desk. Erika Davis may face an obstacle or two, but ignores them in her quest to create and share beautiful art in the form of caps (right); several she donated to some very special children. Heidi’s letter tells of her mother’s passion.

“My mother is originally from Germany. “At the time however, we didn’t know it She has always been the type of woman with a was to Ally’s House specifically (that the hats strong work ethic, being lazy is not an option! would be donated), until she got a thank you She always took letter from a little girl who was great pride in her currently in the hospital. My Mother career as a beauti- was really excited and proud be- cian, in her home, cause not only was she able to in her garden and provide a hat to this little girl who, in her hobbies of in her own words, “needs to keep crocheting and her head warm so she will feel knitting. better,” but because she knew that “My father Ally’s house was associated with passed away in Toby Keith. You see my Mother is 2004 and my an avid, and I do mean AVID, Toby mother’s health Keith fan!! She has most of his cd’s, declined and she watches his movies and videos over slowly started to and over (well with her nose practi- become blind. It cally planted on her tv so she can was really hard on “This is my mom, Erika Davis, during see them better) and demands that her to quit her job her last hospital visit a couple months my family read every article about and just sit at ago. No worries though, she’s in good him and his family to her!! We even home. Presently, health and ornery as ever! Note the recently she continues to crocheted hat! LOL,” said Heidi mailed him garden as much as Davis, Help Desk. some red, she can and contin- white and ues to crochet hats, scarves, shawls, blankets blue crocheted hats and baby blankets but her blindness has pro- because she didn’t like gressed to a point that she cannot use really dark the hats he was wear- colors anymore as she can’t see them. I will try ing in his videos, she sometimes to sell her hats and such for her, just said they were too so that she makes enough to buy herself more flimsy!! My Mother is yarn. quite proud to feel that “It was suggested that I donate the hats she is being useful by Heidi Davis that my Mom had made, so I contacted Lori helping the kids at Swanson who eagerly agreed to do just that. My Ally’s House get better. mom was thrilled about it! - 23 - Driver License Examining division news

The Driver License Examining division They were also for sale at the Norman driver sponsored a football auction for a Christmas license station by contacting Driver License project in December 2010. Funds collected were Examiner Norman Rider. used to purchase Christmas presents for children The ball and case were donated for the purpose of the Christmas Project. Drawing for the winner was held on December 10, 2010, and the honor went to Anita Mayes (left), Driver Compliance division who was presented the football by Rider. “We raised enough money to assist this family,” said Karen Gentry, director of the Driver License Examining division. “We were thrilled with the outcome and hope to do the project next year.” Other news within the division included the presentation of a 20-year service certificate to Sr. Driver License Examiner Ken Miller (below, left) by Director Karen Gentry in a Tulsa area staff meeting. Congratulations Ken.

of a family within the DPS community. Employees were also encouraged to submit the name a family who might have needed help during the Christmas. The football was autographed by players at the University of Oklahoma with approximately 65 current player’s signatures. All of the signatures were personally collected by a Driver License Examiner Norman Rider. The ball was presented in a wood and glass showcase, and was displayed in the Driver Compliance division in the office of Hearing Officer Candice Ramsey. One ticket cost $1, six for $5 and 12 were sold for $10. They were purchased through Ramsey or Driver License Examiner Tina Hornback at Troop A headquarters in Oklahoma.

- 24 - At large ...

DPS temporary employee Katja Nichols (near left) along with friend and fellow graduate Kristen Atkinson, recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Central Oklahoma and said she was one of only two to graduate Chad Pape (above), son of Brenda with those particular honors Pape, Training division, graduated with a phsychology degree. with a Bachelor of Arts in history and Nichols also minored in a minor in sociology from the sociology. University of Oklahoma.

The family of Lt. Kerry Massie (far left) took a trip to Florida in order for their son, to play in the Kick It 3B3 World Championship Soccer Tournament. Massie (left), Mallory, Brock, Brody and wife Tiffany, spent as much time as possible between soccer games at Disneyworld in Orlando, Fla. While Brody’s team took second in the tough competition. And what’s extra cute about this picture of little Mallory in her big pink Minnie Mouse ears, you may ask? She struck that precious pose all on her own.

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