Service Spotlight Awards
See All Past FinalistsServiceWear Apparel seeks to recognize the men and women who go to work every day to make our states, cities, towns, counties, and neighborhoods a better place. These individuals put on their workwear or uniform before work each day, and provide a high level of service to the public. Recognized by their peers and those who benefit, these individuals go beyond what is required or expected in their day-to-day job responsibilities. We believe that these unsung heroes of public service don’t always receive the attention and recognition they deserve. This is why we are proud to sponsor the Service Spotlight and Workwear MVP Awards.
And the winners are...
ServiceWear Apparel is very proud to recognize the bus drivers of Salida School District in Colorado as winners of the prestigious Service Spotlight Workwear MVP. The award was presented in front of the school district's officials and board members on October 1, 2019.
Read their winning nomination. The drivers win a grand prize of $1,000 in cash, plus an additional $1,000 worth of apparel for his agency.
Park Ranger of the Year - 2018
Congratulations to Paul Kline from the Ludington State Park in Ludington, Michigan, the official winner of the 2018 Park Ranger of the Year Award.
Read Paul's winning nomination. He wins a grand prize of $1,000 in cash, plus an additional $1,000 worth of apparel for his agency.
ServiceWear Apparel is very proud to announce Paul Kline of Ludington State Park in Michigan as winner of the prestigious Service Spotlight Park Ranger of the Year Award. The award was presented in front of the Michigan Natural Resource Commission on March 14, 2019.
Photo Credits: From left to right:
Ron Olson, Michigan Parks and Recreation Chief
Dan Eichinger, Michigan Department of Natural Resources Director
Paul Kline, Lead Ranger, Ludington State Park and winner of the ServiceWear Apparel Service Spotlight Park Ranger of the Year Award
Jim Burnett, Chief Development Officer, ServiceWear Apparel
Take a look at some of our past winners
Top: Vice President, Mike Pence, then Indiana Governor, helped us celebrate Jason Parker, 2015 Correctional Officer of the Year.
Bottom: Chief Development Officer, Jim Burnett traveled to California to present Joshua Kanavel with the 2016 Correctional Officer of the Year Award.
Top: Arizona's Carol Windsor, winner of the 2017 Park Ranger of the year.
Middle-Top: South Carolina gave us our 2016 Park Ranger of the Year, Thomas "Zabo" McCants.
Middle-Bottom: After a harrowing cliff-side rescue, we, along with then Governor Jay Nixon, were proud to present Brandon Bartz of Missouri with the 2015 Park Ranger of the Year Award.
Bottom: West Virginia's Governor Earl Ray Tomblin assisted us in recognizing the 2014 Park Ranger of the Year, Jesse Anderson.
Left: Dr. Michele Taylor, Superintendent of Calhoun City Schools in Georgia was our 2014 Superintendent of the Year.
Past Service Spotlight Finalists
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2018
Workwear MVP
Robert has been a member of Union Road VFD for about 13 years and has always gone out of his way to help those in need. One of his recent major accomplishments was starting the Fireman’s Faith Ministry, a non-profit organization that unites firefighters through fire and faith. While on mission trips to Honduras and Nicaragua, he saw how severely the fire departments there were lacking in safety and fire equipment. Robert established Fireman’s Faith Ministry, not only for pastoral type care, but to also help get equipment and serve those departments in need.
Over the last year and a half, Robert has collected used equipment from all over the US to ship to these fire departments in need. Robert has spent countless hours and money driving around from state to state, ministering to firefighters and picking up unused equipment. He has raised a portion of the money to pick up, ship and maintain this equipment. However, a majority of the money used has come from his own pocket. I believe that someone of his young age and caliber, to take on such an extraordinary task and to see it through, is going more than above and beyond. Robert is also extremely active within our department. He is assigned numerous job duties, which he takes great pride in completing each assigned task, and he does so promptly, without hesitation. I am humbled to know and work with someone of such dedication and high caliber.
Robert Heussy
Union Road Volunteer Fire Department, NC
Alicia single-handedly improved the Monrovia High School (MHS) cafeteria financial posture. The significance of her action has a most profound effect within the Monrovia USD, as the District deals with decreasing enrollment, which translates to less General Fund dollars to educate our students. Alicia’s contribution enabled the Food Services Department to remain solvent; therefore, the General Fund can be used to the maximum extent to educate our students.
In 2012, Alicia enabled the Monrovia Unified School District (MUSD), Food Services Department to become the partner of choice for Tzu Chi Great Love Elementary School, as she committed her team to developing a Healthy, Hunger Free and Kids Act 2010 compliant vegetarian menu for their K-5 school. At the apex of this community partnership between the Tzu Chi Great Love School system and MUSD, this endeavor generated an additional revenue stream of $5,000.00 per month. Alicia is the type of individual that any Director would benefit from having her on their team.
In August 2016, Alicia Escobar was promoted to Production Center Manager at MHS and immediately sent the operations into a MEGA metamorphosis. She crossed trained, empowered and inspired employees, seized control of the inventory, curbed substitute workers. She did so while preserving opportunities for the permanent CSEA members, invigorating the stagnant MUSD Catering Program, conducting on-the-spot audits, and reorganizing/streamlining the courtyard style service areas to increase operational efficiency.
In 2017, Alicia and her team whittled an enormous $150K debt down to $15K. She also sets a professional development example for her team to emulate, evidenced by earning a California School Nutrition Association Level III Certification. This certification signifies her commitment to this profession, ensuring National Professional Industry Standards that will keeps its future viable.
Alicia Escobar
Monrovia Unified School District, CA
Department team: Willie Powell, Joe Keith, Jacob Harp, Aaron Wilson, Robby Hamblin, Carl Faulkner, Benny Campbell, Chad Canada, Stacey Manus, David Myers, Bryce Gibbs, James Paul, and Carl E. Paul.
In the most imaginable thoughts, these men do so much! The department consists of a supervisor, an electrician, two HVAC techs, a sewage person, a woodshop maker, two plumbers and five ground keepers for the ball fields and campus. Each of them have job descriptions, but at any given moment, when any of the other men need help doing a job, the others are always there with no questions asked. Work starts for them at 6:00 am and ends at 3:30 pm every day.
Some nights or evenings they have been called out on emergencies. They drop all they are doing to continue keeping the school running and safe. These men are generous, kind and would bend over backwards for anyone. When the mowing is behind because of rain, the others help pick up the slack to get it done in time. When a freezer or a major air unit is down, they all pull together to get it up and running again for the comfort of our personnel and students. The school is employed with about 1,200 people, giving an idea of how many rooms in the school they keep running and the number of students and staff they keep safe.
Maintenance Department
Whitley County Board of Education, KY
Bryce Howell is an amazing supervisor to his Parks Crew. Bryce was promoted to Supervisor, after establishing outstanding work habits, processes and standards in Menifee Parks as a Park/Maintenance Specialist. As a supervisor, Bryce has made our already beautiful parks, the envy of the region. The parks recently transitioned to a new city logo. Much of our funds have gone to park monument signs and other new branding material, instead of uniforms.
Knowing Bryce, he will probably try and purchase uniforms out of his own pocket. It would be great to be able to utilize this $1,000 prize to provide new gear for his staff, instead of Bryce having to use his own money. Bryce is an incredibly dedicated husband and father of two young children. He is a consummate professional who is always thinking of the greater good. Not just for the city, but the region, as well.
Bryce Howell
City of Menifee Community Services Department, CA
Last year, one of our teachers retired after 36 years as the 12th grade coordinator. Many speculated that the program would not survive without him, as he was one of the architects of our program. Not only have we survived, but we are thriving because of Dr. Rebecca Williams’ leadership.
She had much trepidation about stepping into this role. However, she had a distinct vision of what the 12th grade would look like with her at the helm. With three new teachers on the team, she has made building camaraderie and collaboration her top priority. Dr. Williams ensures that each member has a voice in the planning and execution of the curriculum, and most importantly, that each teacher feels supported to teach the curriculum effectively. Communication has been the key. She plans weekly team meetings to discuss student progress, write essay questions, plan events and build rapport. She also meets with the new teachers to coach them through the rigorous curriculum, despite having a full teaching load of her own.
In addition to her leadership as the 12th grade coordinator, Dr. Williams is also an outstanding educator. In the program, all 12th graders are required to take AP English Literature. This requirement ensures that ALL students have access to AP classes. Having access is not enough, as students must also be able to succeed in these classes. Dr. Williams works tirelessly to ensure that each of her students is “AP ready,” which includes meeting with students during her breaks to offer additional support. She also coaches each of her 80 students through the writing of their personal statements for college admission. Dr. Williams goes beyond what is required or expected in her day-to-day job responsibilities, and she deserves to be recognized.
Dr. Rebecca Williams
Cleveland Humanities Magnet High School, CA
With so many changes happening in the Parks & Recreation Department, Don has always stepped up to the plate. He has filled in for a supervisor out on medical leave without missing a beat. He did so while also filling in for the Senior Crew Leader, who was out on vacation. He treats his crew with respect by hearing out their thoughts and opinions, while pushing them to do their best. In addition, he has always been quick to get the repair issues addressed, even if the problem did not fall under his park. He will go out of his way to make sure the job is properly completed. If you have an issue with a repair, he will listen to you and do his best to get the repair done to your satisfaction. He is always willing to listen to any questions a customer or fellow employee has about a repair, and will take the time to show a fellow employee how to do the repair the right way.
Donald Benson
Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation, FL
Chief Capps has moved up the ranks to become Chief, while still dedicating himself to providing the best service possible to the residents, visitors and families in Knightdale.There is a fine line between the public and the police department that must be followed. Chief Capps follows this to a tee. He is a fair and conscientious leader, and expects the highest level of service and commitment from everyone he has the honor of serving with and protecting. He volunteers for civic events, is an active instructor/teacher, an active member in his church, a remarkable friend and a great husband and father. He still finds time to continue his education and is constantly exploring options for departmental and self-improvement.
Chief Lawrence Capps
Town of Knightdale, NC
Marlon deserves this award for his dedication to the park district. He began eight years ago as a part-time maintenance employee, and over the years he has shown his dedication and service to the park district.
This past April 2018, he graciously accepted the Superintendent of Parks position and joined the upper management team. He works tirelessly, meeting all the demands of the recreation department, providing tables and chairs for events, keeping the 17 parks clean of trash. He also supervises four full-time unions, two salaried supervisors, 10 year-round part-time staff members, as well as, eight part-time seasonal staff. He leads by example. Marlon is often seen with a shovel in hand, working alongside his staff. He isn’t afraid of getting dirty, but rather that the job at hand is completed correctly and in a timely fashion. He is prompt at returning phone calls and completing tasks/projects given to him by his supervisors. He lives locally, and therefore, has agreed to be the on-call employee for the park district.
It is an honor to have a person like Marlon working for the park district. He is a true optimist, and it is his positive attitude that helps him accomplish whatever task he has been assigned. Marlon is a complete go-getter, who will go the extra mile to give his best to any project undertaken. Moreover, he is a leader amongst his peers, as he not only makes sure his work ethic is strong, but also encourages those around him to do their best. Above all his leadership qualities and achievements at work, what I admire most about him is that he is a good person, father and husband. His helpful nature is not restricted to matters of just work, but is extended to personal matters, too.
Marlon Medina
Calumet Memorial Park District, IL
Justin Aselage
City of Sidney, Parks and Recreation Department, Ohio
Ranger Justin Aselage started working for the Sidney Parks and Recreation Department in June of 2013 and within just a few months after his instruction with a Sidney Police training officer, apprehended a bank robber. While that is impressive for someone with such little service time, he has been an even bigger asset to the city as a ranger in the parks.
Justin is interactive with the citizens in the over 450 acres of park land and we receive compliments often about his demeanor, even when he is writing a warning or ticket. He is a public relation star for the parks department and the city of Sidney. He interacts with children throughout the year by being a part of the city's recreation programs. He has implemented a nature walk program for kids in the summer, met with grade schools and provided the educational experience for busloads of students.
During the recent 70th Anniversary celebration for the 220-acre nature preserve called Tawawa Park, he offered a nature walk to those that came out to the celebration. Notes from educators are sent in to the department thanking him for his time and patience with the young children and comment how interactive he is with the kids.
Justin also assists the Sidney Police department with parade details, backups to domestic incidents and has been the lead on several pursuits in the city. The road patrol officers appreciate his readiness to assist them in what is many times a caustic situation. Justin is ready to assist wherever he can. While the city parks are still open during the winter months, the cold weather obviously reduces the number of park patrons. Ranger Aselage takes off his uniform during this time and assists with maintenance in the department. From pouring concrete, installing play equipment, plowing snow and taking the lead with the parks department's Ash tree remediation program, Justin is willing to assist wherever he can.
Under his leadership, park staff and contractors have removed over 1000 Ash trees in the parks that died due to the Emerald Ash Borer. While on patrol during the summer months, Justin completes a triage in the parks and prioritizes which trees need to be removed first for safety reasons. He then determines which trees will be removed by parks staff and which are to be felled by a contracted certified arborist. He works closely with the contractor and staff to make sure the removals are done in a safe and timely manner
In closing, Ranger Justin Aselage has made his mark in the department and the community with his open personality, love of children and nature and his work ethic.
Jamie Bigsby
Three Island Crossing State Park, Idaho
Jamie Bigsby is the hardest working and most dedicated park ranger imaginable. It is truly a pleasure and a privilege to work with her. Whether it be the most disgusting mess or most challenging mechanical repair, there is not a job she won’t tackle. She is skilled and experienced in many more areas than her principal accountabilities as park ranger. She’s owned a concrete business and even been a helideck firefighter. Jamie can certainly be depicted as a present-day Amelia Earhart, and she goes the extra mile to take care of our 134,000+ annual visitors.
Jamie is involved in the community and any co-sponsored activity from beginning to end. She is an integral part in the planning and implementation of all the numerous annual events. She works on her days off, and even stays late in the evenings to attend every meeting leading up to every event. Once, we had a last-minute request to host a guest speaker and plan an impromptu interpretive program on night sky viewing for our customers. Jamie actually spent the night in her car to ensure the speaker had a ride to and from the airport and around town for supper and anything else he might need before, during and after the late-night program.
She cares deeply about her peers and subordinates as well as the public she serves. Jamie works a long ten-hour day, often working right through her lunch break, then depending on the traffic and roads, drives at least an hour home each night. Everyone she encounters, supervises, and works with, immediately recognizes and respects her completely for her commitment to excellence. Jamie can always be relied upon to know the names of all the plants and animals in the park. Her heart is the size of Texas and her personality is as sweet as honey.
She will rescue every critter that crosses her path including spiders, whether they’re poisonous or not. Once, a patron reported a bird hooked with fishing line in a tree overhanging the river. Jamie rushed to its rescue. It was hooked in two places and dangling from a tree branch. One hook went through the tip of its wing and was wound tightly around it and the other was right through the middle of the wing. The fishing line was cut and while in transport it got away and flew to a nearby tree. Jamie was broken hearted and tried desperately to catch it again because the hooks were still in its wing. She had to be convinced to come away and ensured that it had a much better chance to live than it had before. Jamie vowed to keep an eye out for the little American Robin in hopes that she would have another chance to remove the hooks.
Jamie goes about her day so very quietly and humbly, constantly moving about her business all the whilst touching many hearts and lives and never knowing how truly amazing and special she is.
Tony Clements
Oscar Scherer State Park, Florida
Tony Clements has been the Park Manager for Oscar Scherer State Park since February 2012. He started as a park volunteer, working his way up through the ranks (volunteer, park ranger, and assistant park manager). He has put in place many programs for the park. One of the favorite programs is working with the "Adopt A Scrub Jay Program". The Florida Scrub Jay is a Federally Listed Species. Due in part to Tony's efforts, Oscar Scherer is currently home to 17 birds. He is an awesome puppeteer and loves to be our mascot “Scrubby the Scrub Jay" at the park's events. The puppeteer activity as part of park events has been in place more than five years.
Tony and his team have made strides in upgrading the park facilities for our visitors including: expansion of the Lester Finley fully ADA compliant trail; adding an accessible canoe/kayak launch; installing an educational aquarium in partnership with the Venice Aquarium Society and Littoral Society, to name a few. Under his leadership, Oscar Scherer State Park's event titled "Earth Day BioBlitz" won the Friends of Florida State Park's Event of the Year Award, Natural Resources Category for 2017.
Tony is on the Board of Directors for the Science and Environment Council of Southwest Florida (SEC). This organization helps to make people aware of the ways to keep our environment safe and clean. He also has established a partnership with University of Florida/IFAS - L.I.F.E. Programs which stand for Life in Florida Environment. This program is designed to engage youth in the STEM curriculums. Tony is always looking for ways to enhance the partnerships of the park and to enhance public awareness. He was on the board for the Osprey Nokomis Chamber of Commerce.
He also assisted the city of Sarasota Florida and the Friends of the Legacy Trail in their effort and success with establishing the 21.5-mile-long trail system and has remained engage with the project. He enjoys being hands on with all projects. He has a zest for life, a positive attitude and is a well-rounded leader in the world of parks, recreation and resource management.
Terry Gray
Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park, Kentucky
In his almost 20 years of law enforcement, Ranger Terry Gray has gone above what his job requires of him. At Blue Licks, he is always invested in the success of the park. For example, at our Battle Reenactment, the Parks main annual event, he recruits and coordinates dozens of volunteers to work with parking, safety & crowd control. He also manages the Parks seasonal Deer Hunt event. His organization of the details with this event were so good that they are now being used as the standard across the parks system.
He works with other area emergency service agencies to assist with any overlapping service needs on the Park or in the area. Ranger Gray is a key part of our customer service team at Blue Licks. When approached by guests he always presents himself in a professional manner and insures that the guest has everything they need during their stay on the park, whether it is a single day visit or long-term stay. Ranger Gray's services are requested many times from different parks from all over the region. He travels wherever needed, whenever needed and works for different events as directed or upon request. His services are always welcomed and greatly appreciated. He has a great work ethic, pays attention to detail and believes in arriving to work on time. Most of those that he has worked for at other events will tell you he arrives at least 30 minutes early, ready and prepared for duty; that is Ranger Gray.
From overseeing crowd control during busy times, such as Senior Tuesdays, on the Park; to managing crowd control and traffic for group events that I book; to managing the Rifle Frolic at Tanners Station; coordinating safety during our Halloween event; there are so many different things that Ranger Gray does as part of his job here at Blue Licks. He is a solid team member that we are grateful to have.
As Group Sales Coordinator, I depend on Ranger Grays services during many of my large events here at the Park and I have always found him to be flexible, available and dependable. Ranger Gray is the Ranger of the Year in the eyes of Blue Licks and I would like to see him recognized among his peers for not only the awesome job that he does in his field, but for everything he does as a team member here at our Park. Our team would not be complete without him!
Kevin Holle
Springfield-Greene County Park Board, Missouri
On behalf of the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, I am pleased to nominate Park Ranger Kevin Holle for the 2018 ServiceWear Apparel Park Ranger of the Year Award. Kevin leads our Park Ranger Division staff of seven full-time rangers that are fully-commissioned law enforcement officers with over 150 years combined law enforcement experience. They are responsible for all aspects of park patron safety and protection of our natural resources in a nationally-accredited City-County park system that features 103 individual park sites and over 100 miles of multi-purpose recreational trails.
Under Kevin's direction over the past year, our park ranger staff have successfully implemented two new weapons platforms, completed all required P.O.S.T. training and provided security coverage at numerous State Championship sports tournaments, World Team Tennis matches and a wide variety of special events that includes the largest 5K run/walk in Missouri. They also provided park security during a recent visit from the President of the United States.
Our Park Ranger Division was honored to receive the 2018 Platinum Excellence Award from the Park Law Enforcement Association that recognized their commitment to park law enforcement sustainability, crime reduction, inter-agency collaboration, accountability to tax payers and implementation of innovative management strategies. Kevin Holle is a very dedicated and deserving Park Ranger that consistently represents the Springfield-Greene County Park Board in a positive fashion and exemplifies the professionalism worthy of your consideration for the Park Ranger of the Year award.
Paul Kline
Ludington State Park, Michigan
As the lead ranger for one of Michigan’s busiest state parks, Paul Kline takes on several roles. He is the park’s Safety Officer, leading regular staff safety trainings and ensuring staff are working safely. He is the park’s licensed Herbicide Applicator, working with park volunteers and service crews to treat invasive species in the park. As a very accomplished sawyer, he is responsible for conducting yearly hazardous tree surveys and removing problem trees.
He has used his woodworking skills to create custom maple cabinets for the park’s interpretive displays and aquariums and to build beautiful maple chairs for the park’s historic, CCC built beach house, using original CCC plans. Many of his projects will live on long after he leaves park service. This is in addition to conducting routine maintenance, customer service and law enforcement duties.
However, it is Paul’s contributions to the Michigan State Park system, above and beyond his park-specific responsibilities, that cause him to really stand out. Throughout the Cadillac District of Michigan State Parks, of which twelve other facilities are included, he trains park rangers in proper and safe chainsaw and aerial lift use, as well as in safe tree felling.
Annually, at the Michigan State Park Ranger and Law Academy, he volunteers to lead new rangers through the CPR and First Aid training and assists with emergency response scenarios. Paul is always quick to volunteer to assist at other facilities that need a hand. This past season, he assisted with downed tree removal at Charles Mears State Park in Pentwater, MI, after the park was hit with 80 mph winds that toppled trees throughout their park, just prior to Labor Day. Previously, he volunteered to be stationed at Belle Isle in Detroit, Michigan, for multiple weeks, to assist with tree removal and clean-up.
Paul is also the district’s Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI). As CPSI, Paul has audited the district’s existing playgrounds, providing recommendations for improvements and repairs to ensure they are safe for users. He was integral in making sure that Ludington State Park’s new playground met industry safety standards and led this community build project. He is currently providing guidance to staff at Leelanau State Park as they navigate their community build playground project.
It isn’t just the work that Paul accomplishes that makes him stand out, it is also his willingness to help with the positive development of his co-workers. He is always willing to provide guidance and support when needed. He makes sure that his co-workers know that they are valued. For the seven years he has worked here, he has cooked lunch for staff on the Fourth of July, every year, whether he’s working or not. It is this dedication, in addition to his contributions to Ludington State Park and the entire Michigan State Park system that make him well deserving of the ServiceWear Apparel Park Ranger of the Year Award.
Brian MacKay
City of Ocala Florida Recreation and Parks, Florida
Brian MacKay should be elected as Ranger of the Year because of his dedication, compassion, enthusiasm and genuine love of being a park ranger. Brian is the person that you will see at every event being held in our parks, working hard and ensuring the event runs as smoothly as possible. Brian oversees a projects crew that is responsible for major projects within the Parks. Brian also oversees six rangers. Brian has been influential in establishing different park programs, monitoring park activity and also has the responsibility of having a K-9 partner to help ensure our parks are drug free. Brian’s tireless dedication to the parks is not because it is his career, but it is truly his passion.
He is a collector of pretty much anything that has to do with a park setting, you should see his office. He is in a career that he loves, and it is evident everyday by not only staff but the visitors of our parks. Brian is a supervisor that displays compassion for his fellow park rangers, vendors of the parks and the community who uses the parks on a year-round basis. Brian is the leader who leads from the front and will get dirty with the rest of his staff.
He also takes personal time to instruct at the Annual National Park Ranger Institute to help ensure that his fellow rangers around the United States are equipped with the best possible training to effectively complete their duties and assignments. Brian is not only an instructor in his profession but most importantly he is still a student. Brian attacks every day with the notion that something new can be learned which will effectively make him, his peers, his staff and our parks better. I believe Brain MacKay is a great choice for Park Ranger of the Year.
Stephen David McCadden
Lake Guntersville State Park, Alabama
I would like to nominate Stephen David McCadden for Ranger of the Year; based on many different attributes he has displayed while employed at Lake Guntersville State Park. Other than maintaining his ranger duties in the confines of our park, he also jumps to assist any local law enforcement without hesitation; McCadden is also a member of the Army National Guard. You can often find Mr. McCadden spending his off days following up on reports, attending court, and assuring volunteer efforts are appreciated in the park.
He has been with the park for a little over two years and continues successful efforts towards generating profitable margins by managing two campgrounds; Lake Guntersville State Park Campground and Town Creek Campground. McCadden is also tasked with the parks inventory control with the state, overseeing the coordination of the VIP volunteer program, and vital law enforcement activities.
In 2017, McCadden was awarded the Life Saver Award by assisting a guest while having a heart attack; Stephens’s swift actions assured the life of this man was saved. Finally, McCadden continues to exemplify the core training of officers everywhere by continuing his education through certifications, qualification’s, and involvement with programs internally as well as externally. He is certified as Field Training Officer with the State Parks and a member of the Alabama Department of Conservations Honor Guard Team.
Ashley Ondersma
Muskegon State Park, Michigan
Ashley Ondersma is an excellent park ranger with an excellent understanding of her role. She has been with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in one capacity or another for 13 years. Ashley has excellent customer service skills and always puts the customer first, while balancing the needs of the park and the resource. She strives to keep the park clean and when not completing projects or patrolling, she is often spending time cleaning the restrooms. Ashley also serves as the park safety officer, ensuring the park is safe and orderly for all guests and staff by making recommendations and correcting issues.
She has demonstrated the ability to think clearly on the fly and handle anything that is thrown at her. In her time as a Ranger, she has responded to many emergency situations, including major and minor medicals, and search and rescue operations. She has excelled in these areas. Ashley is always willing to learn new skills weather it is “hard skills” like construction and vehicle maintenance or “soft skills” including how to better de-escalate situations.
She is the first to volunteer to lead educational programs and organizes staff events and trainings. This year, she took an intern who has an interest in working in parks “under her wing” and has been able to work with her consistently teaching her skills and guiding her in what is required to be a good Ranger. Ashley leads by example and is an asset to Muskegon State Park and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Carlos Rosario
City of Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department, Florida
Carlos Rosario exemplifies the qualities of the Park Ranger of the Year Award. According to his peers who nominated him, “Carlos is the ranger who other rangers look at and ask, ‘how is he so good at all that stuff’”.
Carlos has helped coordinate and lead some of the most challenging and time-critical projects undertaken by the Parks and Recreation Department. He is very dedicated and hardworking and has always stood ahead in all his work. He has been a very enthusiastic employee and always likes to excel in whatever he does. His peers call him a “consummate professional in that he endeavors to be the best at whatever he does.” You will find him directing traffic, patrolling the parks, giving directions to a lost visitor, or mentoring a new ranger.
From the day he joined our department, he excelled in his performance and is an employee who is well known not only in his department, but the entire City of Cape Coral. Carlos has always been a person who participates in all the cultural activities. He often works on projects outside of his job description. He is one of the most liked employees and ready to take on any challenge while giving the best in all his work.
Carlos is the go-to person when the other employees need training, or a coworker has a question. Not just departmental employees rely on him for advice and assistance, but also when other departments need answers, Carlos is the first person they turn to as well. This says a lot about how his skills and contribution and sets an example for his fellow ranger coworkers. The city has received many compliments and words of praise for Carlos from our citizens and we are delighted to have such a valuable employee like him with us. With his determination and urge to always go an extra mile to accomplish tasks faster, he has successfully brought a lot of fame to our Park Ranger Program.
He has proved to be a motivating team leader as well, and we appreciate his diligence and enthusiasm. Carlos is an outstanding ranger and very deserving of this recognition.
Brandon Samson
City of Menifee Community Services Department, California
Brandon Samson has been a park ranger with the City of Menifee for just over one year now. He is the city’s first ever park ranger and has certainly blazed a trail for future rangers. Brandon is dedicated to providing a positive experience at twelve parks, totaling 22 shelters and eight ballfields. In addition to his work in the field related to parks, Brandon his also the leader of the city’s Homeless Outreach Team.
Brandon has worked closely with nonprofits and local law enforcement to significantly reduce the number of homeless in the community. Additionally, Brandon has created several adopt-a-park opportunities, played a lead role in the Community Clean-up day (Menifee Better Together) and provided the community with several interpretive classes and programs. Finally, Brandon recently earned a Certified Code Enforcement certificate and now assists the Code Enforcement department in Menifee as well. You will not find a finer Park Ranger than our Ranger Samson.
Greg Wrightsman
City of Arvada, Colorado
It is with great respect and admiration that I submit Greg Wrightsman for ServiceWear Apparel's Park Ranger of the Year. Earlier this year, I was asked to develop a pilot park ranger program for the City of Arvada, CO with hundreds of items to be handled before launching the program in September, none was more important than creating its vision and finding qualified volunteers to bring it to life.
With only two months remaining in the program's initial seasonal run, Greg showed an amazing commitment to the program by working his territory for most of those 60 days. He worked sometimes twelve-hour days, always with a great attitude and infectious smile. He made it a point to greet and welcome with much enthusiasm, every guest he ran into and was always available to answer questions about the many resources and abundant wildlife found in our city.
Greg lead the program's vision by addressing guests needs, making educational contacts and by encouraging everyone to enjoy the city's many resources. Utilizing his knowledge and awareness, his ability to identify potential safety hazards, and bringing them to our attention, Greg has helped our Parks Department make the necessary changes and repairs, making our parks and trails safer for everyone. The feedback from our guests has been extremely positive. This is due mainly to the tremendous efforts made by Greg and the other volunteer rangers and, as a result, our guests are continually expressing their admiration for all that has been accomplished. In addition, the Arvada Police Department and Animal Management are aware of their presence and appreciative of their continued presence on the trail and in the parks.
Greg has definitely been the superstar of our program. He has become an important resource to his fellow rangers and has become a friend to hundreds of park guests who have grown accustomed to his presence and rely on him for their peace of mind while enjoying our city's natural beauty. Greg's ability to deliver on the program's vision and in fact, to exceed expectations, has also had a great impact on Greg himself. He has found passion and a renewed purpose in his own life. He loves being a ranger and is an inspiration to others in the field.
Greg is a modest, unassuming, respectful individual who would be the first to say that he could not do it without the help and support and hard work of all the other rangers on the team.
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2017
Workwear MVP
Jeff Barker has served the students and staff of Hobbs Municipal Schools for 27 years. The passion he has for the students is exemplified in everything he does. Jeff continually strives to provide better "kid service" at each opportunity given. From mowing the grounds just before school starts in August, to setup for graduation of nearly 600 students in May, to summer maintenance, Jeff does it all!
Jeff has moved the department from an entirely demand response maintenance department to a department that balances the benefits of preventive maintenance practices with demand response maintenance. This is all the while conducting on facilities that average in age of 57 years, total nearly 1.5 million square feet and 200 acres of grounds. He is a highly-respected member of Hobbs Schools and we could not provide the opportunities to students and staff without his leadership and example.
Over 189,000 students have benefitted from his attention to detail and excellence to service. He might not be providing the instruction of reading and writing each and every day but without Jeff’s vision and leadership, the instruction would be much more difficult to provide. Jeff and his team are true unsung heroes of the Hobbs Municipal Schools. We are truly blessed to have him as a member of our family and MVP!
Jeff Barker
Hobbs Municipal School, NM
Under Chief Piccirilli's leadership, the Fire Marshal's office has adopted the Knox Box program for commercial and multi-family gated properties. It is also a residential voluntary invalid/senior program provided free of charge to anyone who may benefit from having a Knox Box on their residence for Fire Department access.
Chief Piccirilli was the driving force behind our department getting a state-of-the-art Fire & Life Safety Education Trailer that is used throughout the year at public/private schools, daycare centers, or any event where it may be requested. Because of his unwavering dedication to Public Fire & Life Safety education we have also gotten a fire extinguisher simulator, began a CERT program, child car seat inspection program, as well as being integral in the establishment of the Safe Kids North Fulton charter for our area.
Deputy Piccirilli retired on June 2, 2017 and I would love for his dedication to Fire & Life Safety be recognized. He is an all-around wonderful man and a walking data base of Fire & Life Safety codes! He will be truly missed!
Paul Piccirilli
Roswell Fire Department, GA
If the Prince William County Service Authority were a rock band instead of a water and wastewater utility, Trey Schneider could be its crowd-pleasing front man. The amateur guitarist and music aficionado often communicates with the public while on-site for issues like water main breaks. Morning, noon, or in the middle of the night, he knows the value of communicating with customers of all types. His down-to-earth qualities and love for children makes this father of two an ideal representative for the utility. “Seeing kids in the neighborhood while we are working and knowing they have school tomorrow, I try to do everything for them, so they can get their work done that night,” Schneider said.
Schneider helps the Service Authority maintain an excellent reputation among customers by being empathetic, especially during late nights that are filled with the sound of a jack hammer on asphalt. “I make sure I take the time to listen, and let the customers know that we genuinely care about their issues." said Schneider. "We are not just there just because we were on call that night.” Schneider often goes the extra mile, as Service Authority customer James Nguyen noted in a recent email. “Around 2:00 a.m., I realized we had no running water,” said Nguyen. “I expected a service tech to arrive sometime in the late afternoon. But around 2:30 a.m., Trey Schneider showed up. Talk about incredible service! He fixed the problem and the water flowed again. He stuck around for another couple minutes to make sure that my service was not interrupted again and said he would come back and check on me later that morning. Trey did return that morning to follow up and provide assistance if needed. This is what I called Super Fantastic Customer Service.”
“Trey is one of the most customer friendly employees here at the Service Authority and has received several letters from customers for his professionalism in the field,” said C↦D Supervisor Dale Arrington. Hired at 18 years old as a utility maintenance worker, Schneider loves the utility's family atmosphere. He says he hopes to retire wearing his blue oxford shirt emblazoned with the Service Authority's logo. “I was so young when I got here and the older guys took me under their wing,” Schneider said. “It has always been very special working for the Service Authority and having this opportunity to serve the community.”
Trey Schneider
Prince William County Service Authority, VA
Garrett Bell is the unsung hero, whom I am nominating for the 2017 Workwear MVP Award.
Garrett is uniquely suited for a very demanding job. Day/night, under a blazing Southern California sun or under a moonless stormy sky at 3:00 a.m., someone needs to be on duty. Within the Inland Empire Utilities Agency’s service area, that someone is Garrett Bell. His title is “Groundwater Recharge and Recycled Water Operations and Maintenance Specialist.” As overwhelmingly complex as that title sounds, it doesn’t capture half of the heroics it takes to be successful as the “groundwater recharge guy” in Southern California. The bottom-line, Southern California is a desert. The IEUA service area (242 square-miles) has more than 850,000 residents and an economy valued at tens of billions of dollars per year. Every family, every business, and school; needs and expects water when they open the tap. Garrett is a critical player on a sophisticated team that provides this vital resource for so many. His many and varied duties include:
1. Manages the performance of more than 30 groundwater recharge basins (large football-field-sized earth-bottomed water-holding basins) that ‘percolate’ water, down through the soil, for storage in the aquifer below.
2. During rainstorms, he is “on duty” (or on-call) 24/7 to monitor the water captured, ensuring the purity and quality of that water, while maximizing the amount of water captured.
3. Rain doesn’t fall evenly everywhere, so Garrett is responsible for moving water from where there is too much to wherever there is additional capacity. Sometimes that means moving manually 500-pound slide valves; other times its opening and closing valves as easily as pressing laptop keys to engage remotely operated valves (if the electricity is on). If the power goes off in the storm, knowing where the valves are and how to operate them is critical to managing the amount of water stored.
4. When the rain isn’t falling, there is another set of responsibilities. Garrett ensures compliance with State Department of Health, California EPA, Federal EPA, the Army Corp of Engineers, etc. This requires carefully sampling of the “fleet” of 45 monitoring wells, managing the custody of all the samples, then reporting all the testing results.
5. Garrett is also responsible for having the know-how to maintain, trouble-shoot, and repair all the specialized equipment needed to “capture and recharge” more than 50,000 acre-feet (equivalent to 500 football fields – one hundred feet deep) of water each year. This includes gizmos and gadgets like lysimeters, submersible bladder pumps, SCADA, multiple OITs, laptop/I-Pad mounted system status and operation; as well as picks, shovels, welders, and driving earth-moving equipment.
Garrett wears the uniform with pride and shares a passion for all-things water and water management. Whether it is groundwater recharge, water-wise conservation, efficient irrigation, recycled water replacement of potable water, providing water for critical habitat; or simply using his many talents to optimize the benefits of the Chino Groundwater Basin for its 850,000 residents … not one of them knows his name … yet.
Garrett Bell
Inland Empire Utilities Agency, CA
Susan Briggs is a Nurse Practitioner who started her medical career as a Volunteer EMT. She became an RN working at the Westchester Medical Center. She remained active in the Volunteer sector becoming an Instructor for EMS and eventually expanded as an instructor for Nursing Students where she teaches at the Westchester Community College. She continually teaches refresher courses for EMT’s, Paramedics, and Nurses. Her dedication in EMS education has been instrumental in the success of the various EMS Agencies within the County of Westchester New York.
Susan Briggs has expanded her teaching role by opening her own business called Briggs Community Health. Her main goal is to start a community based EMS health system that would go to those in need. She is currently using the business to teach EMS courses to any Agency, Business organization, or Individual. It’s her hope that by teaching others, that they will be able to reach out and help those that are home bound in need care but not necessary in need of medical transport. Susan Briggs continues to actively ride as an EMT with Valhalla Ambulance Corps.
Susan Briggs
Valhalla Ambulance Corps, NY
Everyday Lt. Neville risks his life to protect the patrons and employees at Flint's Bishop Airport. On June 21st, 2017 while on routine patrol he was attacked by a foreign terrorist who attempted to murder him with a knife. Even after being attacked from behind, he began to fight for his life and never gave up until the suspect was subdued and handcuff. He's been more than the Lt. who helps me manage law enforcement at Bishop Airport daily. He's been my friend for 35 years. We started our careers together in 1982 when he was 20 & I was 25 years old. I've witnessed his integrity and his bravery. And I would love to see him be honored for it.
Jeffrey Neville
Bishop Airport Police FNT, MI
Ruben has worked with the Los Angeles County Fire Department for over 28 years. He is a very dedicated worker who cares for his staff. Coming into the fire season he makes sure that his staff has their turnouts checked out and if replacements are needed, they are ordered. They also need to make sure they have their strike team bags ready to go if they are sent to location which can be up to 14 days duration, if large fires break out. They need to always have their supplies, spare clothes and equipment ready. He depends on his staff to do their daily tasks so if they are sent somewhere they are not ill-equipped to handle whatever emergency comes their way. His staff, the public and his family count on him every day. At times, it is a heavy burden to carry when they are battling a large fire and someone gets hurt or the loss of property. I believe Ruben deserves the Workwear MVP Award because his staff purchases additional workwear, breathable shirts for comfort and additional uniform accessories on their own.
Ruben Reyna
Los Angeles County Fire Department, CA
Officer Dorais is one of the most proactive police officers in our agency. Officer Dorais has made numerous arrests that have a tangible correlation to public safety to include drug, gun, and other acts of violence arrests. Officer Dorais brings an exemplary work ethic every day and his positive attitude is contagious. I see Officer Dorais always working to improve and expand his tool belt. Officer Dorais has built meaningful contacts within the community that has yielded information that has prevented crime and enhanced the quality of life for the residents for the City of Meriden.
John Paul Dorais
Meriden Police Department, CT
This past Father’s Day, 28 year police veteran Sgt. Andy O'Neill left his wife and three kids to work an open day shift at the Police department. This was not his normal schedule. He worked it so another officer and his newborn son could celebrate their 1st Father’s Day together as a family. While Andy worked, many sons and daughters and wives were thanking and honoring the fathers in their lives. At a Central Avenue residence, a husband and father was with his wife and two daughters at home. Suddenly and inexplicably he collapsed. His heart stopped beating and he wasn't breathing. A husband and father lay in front of his family lifeless. The family called 911 to begin lifesaving efforts. Andy and his partner Ptl. Casey Willms were already on a medical call involving a 2-year-old in respiratory distress.
Casey stayed and gave care to the infant and Andy responded to the CPR call. Upon his arrival at the home Andrea Rogers, a volunteer with Spring Lake First Aid, arrived in her personal car. They entered the home and found the victim on the floor surrounded by his wife and two daughters. Andy and Andrea then worked flawlessly as a professional team. They accessed and took immediate appropriate lifesaving actions.
Cordio-Pulmonary Respiration (CPR) was started. An Automated External Defibrillator(AED) was attached to the man's chest, his heart needed help restarting. Andy and Andrea were there to do that. But one shock from the AED wasn't enough. Hearing that additional assistance was needed, Sea Girt Police Officer William Joule arrived to help. Joule immediately transitioned onto CPR with Andrea. Andy shocked the man's heart a second time and a pulse began. But, two shocks were not enough. His heart stopped again. CPR started again and another shock was given. But three shocks were not enough.
Two more Sea Girt Officers arrived to help. Sgt. John Demillio and Officer Frank Ciufo jumped right in to help. MONOC Medics arrived as well as additional Spring Lake first aid members and shocked the man a fourth time. He regained a pulse and was transported to Jersey Shore University Hospital where he received a triple bypass that night. Sgt. O'Neill visited the husband and father a few days later. He gave us the okay to share this story. We won't publish his name but every Officer involved will remember his name. Every Officer, with one exception, involved in this save is a father. The victim is a father. None of them expected a Father’s Day quite like this. Sgt. Andy O'Neill was ready.
Andrew O’Neill
Spring Hill Heights Police Department, NJ
Corporal Doug Buie is an upstanding citizen who constantly is a great role model for young kids in Monroe County. He continually helps the younger generation learn more about state parks and preserving the historic aspect of them by hosting camps and visiting the local schools. He is a great role model for his own kids by setting an example himself of keeping state parks clean. He is a wonderful asset to Mark Twain State Park and to our county, as a whole. This gentleman continually gives of himself to others without expecting anything in return.
Doug Buie
Mark Twain State Park, MO
Stephen David McCadden is held in high regards with his staff, coworker, and our guests. Mr. McCadden has been employed at Lake Guntersville State Park for 14 months. During that time, he has managed the Town Creek Campground, and main campground which had a huge contribution in both facilities making the highest profit within the last ten years.
He is the volunteer coordinator and over inventory at Lake Guntersville State Park. Mr. McCadden has also been a great attribute to law enforcement within the state park system. He currently has the most case numbers out of 19 law enforcement rangers. He is currently certified as a Field Training Officer with the State Parks and is a member of the Alabama Department of Conservation Honor Guard team. Mr. McCadden helps assist park guests in any way he can; from educating to helping a guest during an emergency.
In March 2017, Mr. McCadden was awarded the Life Saver Award. A park guest was attending a fishing tournament at the park when he had a heart attack. Mr. McCadden was on scene and jumped to action. He ran to his patrol vehicle and grabbed an automated external defibrillator (AED). He called for medical assistance, utilized the AED on the park guest and resuscitates the guest, who was then life-flighted to the hospital. Due to his actions, he saved the guests’ life.
Stephen McCadden
Lake Guntersville State Park, AL
Dr. Donna Shaver has led the sea turtle conservation and recovery efforts at Padre Island National Seashore for over 30 years. She has dedicated her life to sea turtle conservation and has been instrumental in efforts to save these animals, particularly Kemp's ridleys and greens.
Dr. Shaver began her work with sea turtles as a Student Conservation Association volunteer at Padre Island National Seashore in 1980. She soon discovered a passion for sea turtles and their conservation that would shape the rest of her career. She was a member of the team that conducted the Kemp's Ridley Headstarting and Imprinting Project from 1978-1988. She joined the National Park Service as a Park Technician at Padre Island National Seashore during the summers of 1981-1984 and became a permanent employee in 1985. By 1986, she was leading the park's sea turtle conservation efforts.
In 1993, Dr. Shaver was transferred to the U.S. Geological Survey's Biological Resources Division to serve as Station Leader of the Padre Island Field Research Station. She remained at Padre Island National Seashore as a scientific adviser to the park and a leading researcher on the Kemp's ridley, [until earning her Ph.D. in Zoology from Texas A&M in 2000.] In 2003, she transferred back to the National Park Service and became the Chief of the newly created Division of Sea Turtle Science and Recovery at Padre Island National Seashore.
Dr. Shaver serves on the Kemp's Ridley Recovery Team. She and her staff members coordinate information on sea turtle nesting in Texas. She is also the Texas State Coordinator for the Sea Turtle Stranding and Salvage Network (STSSN), a national network that tracks sea turtle strandings. Dr. Shaver and Division staff members continue to conduct research to advance sea turtle conservation. They have produced dozens of publications and contributed significantly to sea turtle recovery. Dr. Shaver has even trained her dog, Ridley, to find sea turtle nests!
When Dr. Shaver began her work with sea turtles at Padre Island National Seashore in 1980, only one or two Kemp's ridley sea turtle nests were found on Padre Island each year. Some years none were found. The species was almost gone, and some said it was too late to save them. Today, 50-100 Kemp's ridley nests are found each year in the park, and nesting has spread along the Texas coast. Nesting has also increased in the Kemp's ridley primary nesting grounds in Mexico.
A species that was once thought doomed to extinction was rescued from the brink thanks to decades of work by Dr. Shaver, her team at Padre Island National Seashore, and many local, national, and international partners in the U.S. and Mexico. The Kemp's ridley is not out of danger yet, as evidenced by a recent, unexpected decline after years of increase, but Dr. Shaver's legacy and success can already be seen in the thousands of tiny baby sea turtles released each year at Padre Island National Seashore.
Dr. Donna Shaver
Padre Island National Seashore, TX
Carol Windsor is my choice for Park Ranger of the Year! Carol has worked at the Petrified Forest as a park ranger for the past five years. She started as a teacher/ranger in her first year but as her special abilities became apparent, came a promotion to park guide. Her abilities as an equestrian was instrumental in keeping the mounted Horse Patrol alive and well when the program was under consideration for dissolution.
The Horse Patrol is one of the drawing points at the Petrified Forest, children and even adults love to see the mounted patrols. Many have never had the opportunity to be that “up close” to such beautiful animals. Along with patrols and teaching, Carol also uses the horses to check on fencing and move cattle out of the park. Another fun part of the Horse Patrol is the ability to ride and represent the Forest Service in parades. A lot of care goes into keeping the horses healthy and in top condition; Carol provides this care at the park in the summer and then takes the horses home with her and cares for them throughout the winter months.
Carol also has other duties such as helping at the visitor’s center, providing interpretive services, working concessions, distributing maps and brochures, providing information about the area; or whatever will help visitors have a wonderful and informed park experience. In the off-season, Carol Windsor works as the 3rd through 8th grade Special Education Teacher at Concho Elementary School District in Apache County Arizona.
Carol Windsor
Petrified Forest, AZ
Superintendent James Ledgerwood has worked tirelessly to overcome challenges at Chimney Rock State Park this year. The elevator that serves the attraction portion of the park has been under repair for months, causing a disruption in programming, service, and access to parts of the park for those unable to climb 300+ stairs. During this time, Superintendent Ledgerwood has pursued promoting a new (in 2016) access to the park (Rumbling Bald Access) and re-designing and opening a beloved trail (Skyline Trail) to the public which was closed years ago due to safety concerns.
In October, a land slide took out a chunk of the parking lot at the base of the rock, for which Ledgerwood continues to supervise its repair and re-open this area of the park. Ledgerwood speaks passionately and sincerely about his park. His pride in his park is always evident. He is a great storyteller, a great representative and promoter of the park, and a great asset to the park. He stops and talks to community members, building strong relationships in the town and reinforcing the locals sense of ownership in the park. He is very well-versed in the history and resources of the park and is a great example of a well-rounded superintendent.
James Ledgerwood
Chimney Rock State Park, NC
Hallie is the epitome of a park ranger, she wears many hats and does so with a caring, passionate, and humble attitude. Continually asked to do more with less she is responsible for a very high-volume volunteer program at one of the busiest state parks in the state. She has transformed it into a model for the rest of the park service using a common-sense approach and showing care for both the park and her volunteers. She meets and welcomes new volunteers, instituted a training program, has regular get togethers for them to come together as a team, and conducts exit interviews for each one.
Hallie is also responsible for the interpretive programs at the park, doing reading with a ranger as outreach to local children, organizing events like the Veterans Day event, moonlight lake paddles on the rare coastal dune lakes, Earth Day festival, among many others, and representing the park at local nature festivals. Hallie also heads up cabin support for the 32 cabins in the park, ensuring they are properly staffed and organized so that time and effort are not wasted, she also orders linens and supplies and handles customer complaints (if there are any) swiftly. She does all of this while also handling the regular duties of a ranger, working in the ranger station, checking in campers, handling campground issues, working the window as people come in, answering phones, and communicating effectively with patrons and staff.
She maintains a great attitude even when faced with challenges. Her coworkers recognize her effort and she has made the team stronger. She is a good role model for both new and veteran rangers. Hallie is a model park ranger for the state of Florida, she loves the park service and is passionate about her park. There isn't anyone who knows it better or cares for it more than Hallie Oalde.
Hallie Oalde
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, FL
I have been associated with Brian for many years as he moved up the ranks with the Florida State Park System. He completely turned around Highlands Hammock State Park through the very thoughtful use of social media and I am very glad to have him back at Hillsborough River State Park. In the time he has been back, the park has made great strides forward in customer service, guest relations, and event coordination.
His volunteer base is up and he continues to lead with strength and little budget even through Hurricane Irma and recovery. In addition, he travels all over the USA fighting some of the largest fires that develop. His leadership skills are extraordinary. His love of the outdoors, the parks and his job shine through - no matter what situation he finds himself in.
Brian Pinson
Hillsborough River State Park, FL
Bryan has been the manager at Stephen C. Foster located inside the Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge for over six years. When he arrived at the park to begin his duties, the refuge was in the midst of the Honey Prairie Fire. He learned valuable lessons from that fire that helped him to be able to provide valuable assistance in this years West Mims Fire that burned thousands of acres around the park. This fire was followed shortly after Hurricane Irma that greatly impacted operations at the park. Irma arrived just over one year after Hurricane Matthew impacted the park. Bryan lead clean-up at several sites along the coast of Georgia following both storms.
Bryan is widely recognized as a leader in Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites. There are currently four park managers and two assistant managers working on other parks that trained under him at Stephen C. Foster. Under Bryans direction, the park provides guided interpretive boat tours of the world famous Okefenokee Swamp. Due to its isolated location, Bryan was able to secure for the designation as a Gold Level Dark Sky Park from the International Dark Sky Association. The park now offers a wide range of astronomy and dark sky programs year round. Bryan operates two units of the park separated by 17 miles in one of the most remote locations in Georgia. Under his direction both units have seen record growth in visitation, revenue, and occupancy.
Bryan Gray
Stephen C. Foster State Park, GA
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2016
Correctional Officer of the Year
I would like to nominate COII Joe Verhelst for the honor of Correctional Officer of the Year. He is worthy of the honor due to his involvement in the community of Thatcher, Arizona. He currently works with a nonprofit organization that meets at Rose Wellness Center. In his capacity as a volunteer, he leads a group of young adults in mixed martial arts exercises. The program allows these young adults an opportunity to focus on something positive and teaches team, as well as, individual accomplishment. He is an excellent addition to our team at Stafford Complex Security. He frequently is assigned to complete tasks that require him to travel away from the institution with little supervision. When he is assigned a task, you can rest assured that it will be completed on time, if not early. He always represents the organization well and does it with a smile on his face and firm handshake.
Joe Verhelst
Safford Complex, Arizona
It is with great pleasure that I nominate Officer J.D. Kanavel as Correctional Officer of the Year. He has been a full-time employee at California City Correctional Facility since December, 2013 and is known for his high standard of performance. He cares for his work duties, co-workers and family members with respect and dignity and is a great asset to California City Correctional Facility as well as the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
Officer Kanavel consistently displays exceptional competence, sound judgment, and depth of professional knowledge in the execution of his responsibilities. He carries himself as a role model who leads by example. He reports to work daily, wearing his uniform with pride. He completes his duties with self-reliance keeping the safety of staff, public, and inmates paramount. With his perseverance and aggregate dedication to duty, he consistently exceeds the expectations of his supervisors.
Officer Kanavel is well known throughout the prison for his work ethic and energy. He is always courteous and helpful to others. He is highly respected by his peers and appreciated by his supervisors because of the way he treats others. He is seen as a very positive person of the team and exhibits a “win-win” philosophy. He is efficient and thorough in his work and finishes the job in a timely manner. The combination of his high ethical standards and vast experience enable him to be an excellent mentor to the junior officers. He is highly respected by those with whom he comes in contact and is an exemplary role model to others in the unit as well as throughout the institution.
Officer Kanavel represents California City Correctional Facility well as he strives for excellence in problem solving. He also volunteers his time for his sons Boy Scouts troop on his days off.
Joshua Kanavel
California City Correctional Facility, California
Colonel Brady is Chief Deputy for Henderson County Detention Center in Kentucky. The facility has over 600 inmates, county, state and federal and is the only detention center in Kentucky that operates in the black, paying its own bills with no assistance from the county budget, and has been doing so for ten consecutive years. Colonel Brady has worked in and supervised every department in the facility during her career and is a 19 year veteran whose dedication has earned the respect and admiration of co-workers. She is active in community events, and energetically assists in community fundraisers such as the Lions Club, Riverview School (for challenged children), Henderson County High School JROTC, and others. She is a wife, mother, and friend to many while diligently working to provide inmates with a safe, clean, and progressive environment to serve their sentence. She assists the Kentucky Jailers Association in their training conference and is considered a leader in her field as she works with Federal Marshall's Offices in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana to maintain a sufficient inmate population to provide increased income to make the detention center financially self sufficient.
Amy Brady
Henderson County Detention Center, Kentucky
Dan Barner works tirelessly to ensure prisoners are safe, fed, and have everything they need every night without fail and without complaining. Guilty or not guilty is not his concern. Staying safe, being fair and impartial are his main concerns. He is the most reliable and honest person I have ever met.
Dan Barner
Independence Ohio Jail, Ohio
This year my senior staff and I have both the honor and the privilege of nominating one of the best officers (we have collectively agreed upon) that we all have ever supervised; that officer is Sergeant Carraway. She is currently our Compliance Sergeant here at the Johnson County Corrections Center; she is also the mother of four young children whom she adores, and has found the time and the energy to complete her Master's Degree in Criminal Justice. She is a beacon of energy and empathy; she is an awesome example to her children, as well as an excellent example to our entire staff here at the facility. Most recently she has been given the incredible tasks of preparing for three different major inspections that will be occurring in succession; the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, the National P.R.E.A. Audit, and the I.C.E. inspection/audit, along with her normal duties of compliance, training, and creating policies and procedures. Although the above work load is very impressive in itself, it's her most recent endeavor that puts her in a league of her own. She just recently made the extra effort in contacting, visiting with, planning out, and now implementing classes here at the facility with our local Family Crisis Center. These classes will include a much needed curriculum for all genders of offenders within the facility, and will also include information on GED Classes, AA and NA, along with information on additional services provided to all offenders post release. In short she has become a treasure to our facility and to our community. So in closing, we once again would like to thank you all for everything you do, and we also very respectfully submit the name of Sergeant Carraway as our nominee for the Correctional Officer of the Year 2016.
Charlie Carraway
Johnson County Corrections Center, Texas
Lieutenant Smith has served with the Sheriff's Office for 23 years. He has been with the jail since his employment and was promoted through the ranks to Lieutenant. During his service, he has consistently been one to strive for improvement in the overall operations. He is eager to provide for his officers needs as well as maintaining a secure and clean jail atmosphere. Known as “Potsie”, he is an energetic officer always willing to go outside of the confines of his job description to see the needs of others are met. He is a member of the office honor guard, a technician on the “meth lab” clean up team, and an enthusiastic member of the "EFFORT" program, designed to bring attention to the special needs community.
Buddy Joe Smith
Montgomery County Jail, Virginia
Brian Moore is a fantastic person who truly cares and loves the Monte Sano State Park. He is an extremely dedicated hard working man that works long hours to keep the park maintained and looking its best. Not only does he continually think of ways to improve the park and make it better for the visitors and guests, he also cares about his fellow employees like family. Brian’s accomplishments are not only as a park ranger but a military veteran that loves his country. There is no one more deserving of this honor than Brian Moore.
Brian Moore
Monte Sano State Park, AL
Ranger Coker is a phenomenal park ranger and a wonderful asset to Gulf State Park. His love for the park is only surpassed by his willingness to lead park staff. He projects a warm cheerful attitude to our guests, the public and follow employees. I have seen him resolve conflicts and handle other difficult situations with remarkable patience. He loves people, works hard, and always tries to lift the spirits of those around him. I believe these characteristics represent all that is good in our State Park. He is an excellent model of what it means to be a State Park Ranger and we could not be more thankful for his dedication to keeping Gulf State Park a safe and family-friendly place.
Landon Coker
Gulf State Park, AL
Brian Crouse came to Tonto Bridge almost a year ago and has done an outstanding job since then. Everyone comments on his quiet and cordial demeanor. He knows his job, is a very quick study and isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty to keep the Bridge as beautiful as it always is. He is very supportive of his staff and volunteers by being concerned of their safety and well-being which is appreciated by all. We all feel very welcome to approach him about anything of concern and know that he will listen. He takes a lot of notes and does not let things slide without some kind of action. Brian deserves the "Park Ranger" of the year award.
Brian Crouse
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, AZ
Eric Knopinski retired from Westminster Police Department where he was assigned to work in parks, and he then made the decision to continue serving his community by working as an Unarmed Park ranger with Denver Parks and Recreation. Currently, a team of 34 Denver Park Rangers helps manage approximately 350 urban parks, 14,000 acres of mountain parks, and 275 miles of paths and trails. Eric has been with Denver for several years, and he patrols primarily on bicycle all year long, even in rain and snow. He is one of the hardest working Rangers I know in one of the most difficult situations I can think of for a Ranger. He is currently assigned to the Trails District in Denver Urban Parks, primarily patrolling in the downtown parks and along the river corridors. Eric is soft spoken and modest, even though he has more experience than almost any other Ranger in Denver. Most of his time is spent working with the dramatically increasing number of homeless people and drug addicts, as well as the usual thousands of park visitors. Eric is amazing at showing compassion to the homeless and addicts by providing resources and other assistance (e.g. medical) and has become a known entity in their community as someone genuinely interested in helping them. At the same time, he is exceptional at balancing this compassion with enforcement of park rules in order to ensure Denver public spaces are safe and beautiful.
Although he much prefers to be on the front lines and away from a computer, he also has administrative responsibilities such as training, leading seasonal Rangers, and coordinating clean-up crews every few days to remove truck-loads of remnants left behind by illegal campers. Eric is a master naturalist, and in his spare time he volunteers with Jefferson County to present environmental education programs. I believe Eric deserves to be recognized because even though he could be relaxing on his couch enjoying retirement, he still chooses to do one of the most difficult Ranger jobs I can think of in order to protect people, protect resources, and to ensure that visitors have a fantastic experience in Denver Parks.
Eric Knopinski
City and County of Denver Parks, CO
Brian MacKay should be elected as Ranger of the Year because of his dedication, compassion, enthusiasm and genuine love of being a park ranger. Brian is the person that you will see at every event being held in our parks, working hard and ensuring the event runs as smoothly as possible. Brian has been influential in establishing different park programs, monitoring park activity and has even undertaken the responsibility of having a K-9 partner to help ensure our parks are drug free. Brian’s tireless dedication to the parks is not because it is his career but it is truly his passion. He is one that wears different park ranger shirts or memorabilia even in his off time. He is in a career that he loves and it is evident everyday by not only staff but the visitors of our hundreds of parks.
Brian is a supervisor that displays compassion for his fellow park rangers, vendors of the parks and the community who uses the parks on a year-round basis. Brian is the leader who leads from the front and will get dirty with the rest of his staff. He also takes personal time to instruct at the Annual Park Ranger Institute to help ensure that his fellow rangers around the United States are equipped with the best possible training to effectively complete their duties and assignments. Brian is not only an instructor in his profession but most importantly he is still a student. Brian attacks every day with the notion that something new can be learned which will effectively make him, his peers, his staff and our parks better. I believe Brain MacKay is a great choice for Park Ranger of the Year.
Brian MacKay
City of Ocala Parks and Recreation, FL
Mr. Levy has been a park ranger here for 3 years, and goes above and beyond daily. Mr. Levy will leave at moment’s notice to help other parks in need due to wildfires or hurricane cleanup. He helps visitors set up their tents when it’s their first time camping and finds ways to make accommodations for visitors that didn’t make it in enough time to rent a site, but just drove for hours with their tired kids. Mr. Levy makes everything about others and never himself. He works double shifts when staff members call out, without hesitation, he offers to stay. He offers to work all holidays so others can be off with their families, even if it is his day off. Mr. Levy leads every major park project. He’s helped with the new enclosures around septic systems and building a loft in our pole barn for storage. He’s assisted majorly with our new volunteer village where he repaired extensive areas of fence that were down and installed new electrical in restrooms for fans. He also does so much more like trouble shooting and repairing broken vehicles all while teaching other staff his skills and hands on training to increase their knowledge and abilities. Mr. Levy is our super Ranger and I am so proud to have him as part of our team.
Dylan Levy
Manatee Springs State Park, FL
Tricia Fowler is the role model park ranger. Tricia is a Wildlife Care Supervisor at the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park where staff takes care of captive Florida wildlife that cannot survive in the wild. Tricia ensures that the animals in the park are given the best possible care, daily enrichment activities and exhibits that match their wild environments to the best possibility all while being fun yet staying within the Florida Park Service theme of "The Real Florida", and protecting our natural and cultural resources. Tricia makes a point to interpret with visitors on a daily basis reasons why animals are here in our park. Tricia is kind and caring, not only with her staff, coworkers, volunteers, but also with the wildlife that are within her care. Deeply respected by both full time staff and volunteers, Tricia embodies the two characteristics of an outstanding wildlife supervisor - an intensely positive interest for the development of her team and equally passionate concern for the wellbeing of the animals under her care.
Tricia Fowler
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, FL
Bob Sawtell has been the Park Manager for O'Bannon Woods for many years. I work for Branchville Correctional Facility and we have had a mutual partnership for many years. The facility has provided him an offender work crew for many projects over the years. He treats the offenders with respect and is very grateful for their assistance. The park itself should speak as to why Ranger Bob deserves this award. He loves that park and takes pride in showing it off.
Bob Sawtell
O’Bannon Woods, IN
Patricia is always a friendly face visitors can expect to see. She is great at dealing with a tremendous number of park guest. Our park fills to capacity every weekend during the summer. At that point we have to turn guests away and direct them to other parks in the area. Inevitably, groups are separated and become very unhappy. Patricia does a great job calming upset customers. She assists them in every way possible in the time frame that she has to work with. It is terrible not being able to come to the park for the day, but a friendly face can make it much more bearable.
Patricia Thatcher
Devils Fork State Park, SC
I have had the pleasure of working with and for some great Park rangers in my 10 years in the South Carolina State Park Service. The Ranger that helped shape me into the kind of Ranger that I wanted to be was Zabo McCants. The one word that I feel best describes him is “Passionate”. He loves his park and more than that he just loves being a Park ranger. Once a visitor meets him they will never forget him.
Zabo thinks outside the box and puts park visitor experiences above all else. In the last few years he has completely transformed Poinsett from this quiet CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) Park tucked back in the woods into a booming destination park. He engaged his staff and turned Poinsett into a premiere mountain biking destination. He has worked with his local community and mountain biking groups to add 20+ miles of mountain biking trails throughout the park and has hosted several big mountain bike events at the Park. All of this getting done without affecting the natural feel of the park and still protecting its resources.
Zabo has also worked hard to revamp the CCC cabins from the 1930s into a more modern feel providing all of the comforts that a guest could ever need while still holding true to the historic side of the cabin. He and his staff have come up with opportunities for guests to engage in from nature hikes and unique programs to time to disconnect from our work lives and reconnect with family and friends. His customer service skills are exceeded by no one and I can guarantee that any guest that stays at Poinsett has felt valued, welcomed, and can’t wait to return.
His qualities as a Ranger are unmatched and his “outside the box” thinking to revamp Poinsett are praiseworthy. However, we are in a time where revenue speaks the loudest. In the last few years, Poinsett has dealt with some of mother nature’s worst disasters from ice storms, to a 1000-year flood event wreaking havoc on the park, to Hurricane Mathew coming in this year. Even through all of this, Poinsett has nearly doubled its revenue intake from a few years ago before the transformation.
While Zabo has worked hard to improve Poinsett and to care for its visitors, a focus of his has been the Rangers that work under him. He knows that his job as a Manager is to prepare the next wave of Rangers so that they are ready to take over when their time comes. He leads by example and will never ask you to do something that he is not willing to do himself. He has set a great example of what a Park ranger should be and I am proud to say that I had the privilege to work under him and learn from him. Whether he knows it or not, he has been a great mentor and a friend.
Thomas “Zabo” McCants
Poinsett State Park, SC
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2015
Correctional Officer of the Year
Officer Clark has been actively involved in not only client supervision, but in different aspects of the local community. He is the District's only certified CPR/First Aid instructor and has served on the Tulsa District Community Corrections United Way State charitable campaign. Along with supervising one of the district's sex offender caseloads, he remained an active volunteer for many community based services/organizations. Officer Clark is a certified Case Manager II, certified by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, and facilitates phases of the drug court program. Officer Clark received a Governor's commendation in January 2014 for his role in a home visit which resulted in the discovery of a methamphetamine lab, resulting in the arrest of the individuals involved and removal of an 8-year-old child from a dangerous situation.
Officer Christopher Clark
Tulsa County District Community Corrections, Oklahoma
Senior Correctional Officer Dave Hewitt has been employed with the South Dakota Department of Corrections since 7/16/2007. He was honored as the employee of the month in June 2012. He applied and was accepted as one of the initial officers to run our reentry housing unit program in March of 2013. Officer Hewitt is a valuable asset to the facility. He currently facilitates evidence based programs for offenders, assists with firefighter pack testing, provides armed transports and is a member of our Correctional Emergency Response Team. During statewide disaster deployments, Officer Hewitt has volunteered to supervise offender work crews. In addition to the responsibilities he has within the facility, he is also a respected member of the community. During his time off, Officer Hewitt provided volunteer services for the local ambulance, is an active member of the volunteer fire department and contributes numerous volunteer hours to local youth and community programs.
David Hewitt
Mike Durfee State Prison, South Dakota
Sgt. McGill has been employed at the Edinburgh Correctional Facility for 5 years. He has been a Sergeant and Shift Supervisor for four years and has worked and ran all three of our shifts. He is currently one of our Day Shift Supervisor where his duties include scheduling, Pay Roll, Conduct Adjustment board, SART Team Member. We had two offenders who walked away from a facility work crew in April and Sgt. McGill was a key member of the custody staff in the handling of the that situation. His knowledge of the process was an intricate part in the handling and apprehension of the two offenders a short time later. On February 7 of this year Sgt. McGill had gotten off duty and was headed home when he came upon the scene of an accident on Interstate 65 south. Sgt. McGill stopped to assist and found a female victim trapped in her vehicle. Sgt. McGill along with other assisted her. He made her as comfortable as possible and stayed with her until emergency crew arrived on the scene. He also contacted the husband to apprise him of the situation. The victim had to be abstracted from the vehicle and was airlifted to the hospital. This action is a reflection of Sgt. McGill's attitude towards his job and his duty to serve.
Dennis McGill
Edinburgh Correctional Facility, Indiana
Officer Vasquez is assigned to the SSU (Special Security Unit) at Arizona State Prison Florence – Central Unit (a maximum custody unit). He demonstrates a strong commitment regarding his role as an SSU Officer. Serving the Arizona Department of Corrections for 11 years, six of those years assigned to the Special Security Unit.
COII Vasquez models professionalism in his appearance, demeanor with staff and inmates as well as outside law enforcement agencies. He is instrumental in gathering information and intelligence from a variety of sources to assist him with investigations on criminal or illicit activity by the inmate population.
His skills have resulted in validating inmates for one of the seven identified Security Threat Groups and removing them from the unit for the safety of staff and other inmates. He works tirelessly on tracking down contraband through searches, monitoring of phone calls and scanning incoming and outgoing correspondence. Officer Vasquez is considered a subject matter expert on compiling validation packets, deciphering coded letters written by inmates and applying that information to determining the hierarchy structure of prison gangs and their political agendas.
Officer Vasquez has established a sound rapport with the inmate population thereby keeping his focus on yard dynamics with a priority on safety of staff. He identifies problem inmates who create disruption on the yard, works towards successful validation and eventually removal from the unit.
He is always willing to respond to other units/Institutions when asked to do so; he comes in at odd hours of the night when called and on his day off. He offers his insight and expertise to other SSU staff across the state, to include training of newly selected staff. Correctional Officer Vasquez has presented information regarding the gang network of prison to various audiences to include student and faculty at Arizona State University. What makes him unique compared to other Correctional Officers is his passion for his career, his drive and determination and ultimately his goal to maintain a safe environment for his peers, the inmate population and ultimately the citizens of the State of Arizona.
Eric Vasquez
Arizona State Prison Florence, Arizona
The professional actions of Special Security Unit (SSU) Correctional Officer II Eugenio DeLaCerda have been extremely instrumental in checking inmate mail, inmate telephone calls, searches of inmate housing and common areas, inmate interviews and staff communication at ASPC-Eyman Cook Unit. The investigative techniques of COII DeLaCerda have led to seven drug findings; placing the inmates on both a "target" urinalysis testing (U/A) list and a "random" U/A list. Another fine quality of COII DeLaCerda is that he also works closely with the Arizona Department of Corrections K-9 team.
In addition, COII DeLaCerda has been instrumental in numerous monthly Department Order 805, Protective Custody inmate verifications during this past Fiscal Year 2015. Even when faced with personal threats from the inmates, COII DeLaCerda demonstrates his responsibility and commitment to the job by pressing forward with his assigned duty in SSU and does not waiver.
COII DeLaCerda has also worked numerous hours of overtime at ASPC-Eyman in order to accommodate vacancies at various security posts. Because of this demonstration of integrity, courage and commitment to his profession, his peers look up to him for advice and guidance in their own careers. He continues to be efficient and leads by example at all times.
Eugenio J. DeLaCerda
Arizona State Prison Complex-Eyman, Arizona
Officer Jason Parker hired in the Indiana Department of Corrections on March 19, 2001, he did a six month cross training stint at the Indiana State Prison when first hired in the department. During his career he has worked at a Super Max facility (Maximum Control Complex), which housed offenders that were designated as hard to manage at other facilities, and the Westville Correctional Facility. Throughout his Career Officer Jason Parker has made it a point to go above and beyond on each and every task given. No matter the assignment he puts forth 110%. The willingness to accept and excel difficult and sometimes labor intensive tasks makes him the go to guy when something needs done. Whether he is managing a work crew, overseeing a high security transport, or helping perform tedious sanitation and work crew tasks, Jason always has a smile on his face. Because of his consistent calm collected and profession demeanor, Officer Parker has recently been selected by his supervisor to fill the position of R dorm Shakedown. Officer Parker’s responsibilities are to insure all returning offender work crews are searched upon return. Officer Parker understands the overall mission and goals set forth while performing his duties. Officer Parker performs his duties in a professional manner while conducting strip searches of the offender population, his meticulous searches have allowed Officer Parker to recover K2, tobacco and cell phones. He has developed a sound and expeditious system of regularly monitoring offenders as they arrive day to day from outside work crews. Officer Parker was selected as Westville Correctional Facilities Correctional Officer of the Quarter and Correctional Officer of the Year by his peers. Officer Parker practices and promotes team concept and sets good examples for all staff to emulate.
Jason Parker
Westville Correctional Facility, Indiana
I nominate Captain Kersenbrock for his advancements through technology bringing the Detention Center to a modern facility. He maintains a Federal inmate program bringing in over a million dollars a year of revenue to Harvey County. He has worked close with the Sheriff looking and implementing various self-help programs for the inmates of Harvey County. He has been a positive force for the Sheriff's Office representing the Office through his professionalism and hard work ethic. His example is seen by his upper staff and employees as a quality to emulate.
KC Keersenbrock
Harvey County Detention Center, Kansas
Sergeant Kenneth Williams started his career with the Arizona Department of Corrections on July 29, 1991. From the very beginning Kenneth Williams was an exceptional officer and never veered after promoting to Sergeant on June 7, 1997. He continually adjusts his schedule to teach classes and to take time out from his busy day to mentor and coach employees. A staff member made the comment they “would follow him into a fire if that’s what he needed.” Sergeant Williams ensures all staff is trained in every aspect of their job and learns to do it the right way.
Recently, while assigned to the Arizona State Prison Complex – Winslow, Kaibab Unit, Sergeant Williams stayed over to assist graveyard shift due to staff shortages. During that shift he was working with newer staff demonstrating how to conduct common area searches and recovered a weapon and cell phone. Staff look up to Sergeant Williams for his ability to keep his composure during any crisis while still willing to help others.
Sergeant Williams has been a Special Security Unit Supervisor dealing with prison gangs, a Discipline Sergeant, Correctional Officer Training Academy advisor, Senior Firearms Instructor, Field Training Officer, Staff Instructor and Taser Instructor. On several occasions Sergeant Williams adjusted his days off at the last minute to give remedial classes to those staff that needed further assistance. Recently a newly trained firearms instructor went out to assist with range for the first time. He learned more from Sergeant Williams, than he did at the firearms instructor academy on how to run a safe and efficient range to get everyone weapons qualified.
Sergeant Williams is a HUGE asset and we truly hope he continues to be here for many years to come.
Kenneth Williams
Arizona State Prison Complex - Winslow, Kaibab Unit, Arizona
Officer Turner directed a detail of 10-13 men who maintain the grounds for the 6 school campuses (200 plus acres) in the Tattnall County School System. Mr. Turner worked in our system for the past four years. During this time our campuses have never been better taken care of. His work extends well beyond maintaining the grounds. On numerous occasions he suggested ways to get the job done more efficiently and quickly. His detail is ready to tackle any job that we may throw at them. He sets the example for his detail by getting them to buy into the idea that if the work is worth doing then it should be done correct. Under Officer Turner each inmate has an assigned duty and they are held accountable for their work. Whether it is digging holes, taking down or putting up fences, painting, landscaping, moving furniture, or washing buses, the detail under his direction will get the job done right. A great example of his efforts was never more clear than when he came up with the idea to rake pine straw from school property to put in the flower beds of the schools to save the system from having to purchase it. Robert Turner has to be by far one of the most deserving individuals for this honor that corrections can offer.
Robert Turner
Emanuel County Detention Center, Georgia
Deputy First Class Ronell Dolce has been employed by the Cecil County Sheriff’s Office since March 18, 2013. She was promoted to Deputy First Class on May 15, 2014. Due to her excellent performance in the operational aspect of the facility and her proficiency at all posts, she took it upon herself to assist in the training of new Officers that are hired.
Deputy First Class Dolce is well thought of by her peers and her superior Officers. She consistently has a positive attitude and a desire to mentor junior Officers on her shift. She displays a mild yet authoritative manner when addressing issues with inmates that come into her scope of responsibility. She knows what needs to be done and goes about it in a methodical and no nonsense manner. She takes personal initiative to assist supervisors as well as other members of her assigned shift.
As a deputy First Class, she supports policy and procedures as mandated by Administration in a manner that promotes understanding with her peers. She takes great pride in ensuring that safety and security of the facility is prioritized.
Deputy First Class Dolce is a graduate of the John Jay College of Criminal Justice with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice. She is married with three daughters and a son. The Dolces reside in Dover, Delaware.
Ronell Dolce
Cecil County Detention Center, Maryland
Detention Officer Shawn Maloney started his career as a Detention Officer December 17, 2007. From the very beginning he has excelled in his many duties far above all of the officers in the Madison County Sheriff's Dept. Officer Maloney is a one of a kind officer and it is very hard to match his kind of excellence. When called upon in the time of need Officer Maloney is always there and can be counted upon to assist the Department in any way he can which is always outstanding. In our jail, we faced many serious situations where Officer Maloney's actions have prevented disaster and even the death or injury to inmates and officers. Although Officer Maloney faced many challenges on the job such as also serving as a member of the jail's (Emergency Response Team), he always managed to overcome them and perform well. Officer Maloney's vast amount of knowledge, abilities and skills has impressed many. Officer Maloney's assertiveness reflects in his work ethic as sharp and professional. Officer Maloney demonstrates his versatility by excelling in his job performance no matter where he is assigned or what mission he is given. Officer Maloney is a self-motivated officer that displays a positive attitude, loyalty and initiative on a daily basis. Officer Maloney is a definite proven asset to our Division and Department.
Shawn Maloney
Madison County Detention Facility, Alabama
Correctional Officer II Terry Crider began his career with the Arizona Department of Corrections on January 01, 1998 as a cadet at the Correctional Officer Training Academy. Upon his graduation from the Academy, Officer Crider was assigned to the Arizona State Prison Complex Winslow Kaibab Unit. Officer Crider worked the Kaibab Unit until he received his transfer to the Arizona State Prison Complex Winslow / Apache Unit on May 08, 1999. During his career with the Department of Corrections, Officer Crider has worked many posts to include: Wild Land Fire Crew, Visitation, Off-site Work Crews, Special Security Unit, Canine, Day Shift, Swing Shift, Graveyard Shift, back-up armory officer and his present post of Transportation Officer. In addition to working posts, Officer Crider also volunteered for the Apache Unit Chase Team, Tactical Support Unit (TSU) and as a Firearms instructor for staff. Officer Crider is always friendly and willing to share his knowledge with his fellow co-workers and was selected by his co-workers to be the Apache Unit of the month.
While working as a Canine Handler, Officer Crider was called out on seven Inter-Agency assists to help local law enforcement agencies to track down suspects of crimes or in search and rescue of lost hikers or campers with a tracking hound. In addition to helping track suspects or lost hikers, Officer Crider help local law enforcement agencies with narcotic searches of local high schools which resulted in a drug find at the Winslow High School. Further, Officer Crider was sent to other State Prison Facilities or Private Facilities to help with Quarterly Searches where he goes above and beyond the call of duty to be a team player. One such search resulted in a major find of black tar heroin which was seized and removed from the Kingman Prison. Officer Crider has also mentored new co-workers just starting with the Department of Corrections, but also newly assigned transportation officers. Officer Crider is a dedicated, hardworking individual and committed to mentoring officers and stresses the need to be knowledgeable on all areas of Departments Policy. This helps an officer to be aware of their surrounds which ensures not only staff and inmate safety, but also the safety of the public. While at work, Officer Crider also helps other officers who are out on extended leave by either donating annual leave to them or just by dropping by their homes to see if there is anything they need.
Correctional Officer II Terry Crider is being nominated due to being a well round Officer who is dedicated to his career to provide for the safety and welfare of his fellow correctional staff, inmates and the public.
Terry Crider
Arizona State Prison Complex - Winslow, Apache Unit, Arizona
Tracy just completed his 30th year of service to the Arkansas State Park system. He was born in Tennessee, and is a graduate of the Memphis State University Park Ranger Degree Program. The State of Arkansas had the foresight to hire this young man from our neighboring state. His first position was a Seasonal Park Ranger (Commissioned) at Lake Catherine State Park in south central Arkansas. He was soon promoted to the position of State Park Ranger and served at Lake Chicot State Park in southeast Arkansas. Before moving to Jacksonport State Park on the banks of the White River in northeast Arkansas, he was promoted to the Assistant Superintendent at Bull Shoals – White River State Park, and in the fall of 2002, Tracy assumed the position of acting Superintendent due to a serious illness striking his supervisor. Tracy’s job performance during the next 16 months was so great he was promoted when his Superintendent was unable to return to work. He became the 4th Superintendent of BSWRSP since 1957. All of us who work in parks have job titles given to us by Human Resources, or governing bodies that they feel reflect our jobs but to the American people we are all Park Rangers. Tracy King meets my definition and criteria of what a park ranger is in every sense of the word and is reflected very well in his accomplishments. In the area of Public Safety and Resource Protection Tracy excels. For some 28 years he served the system as one of our Volunteer Law Enforcement Instructors. He also serves as the de facto LE Training Coordinator. He is a guest instructor at one of the state level LE Training Academies and has built an outstanding cooperative relationship with other LE agencies on the local, state and national level. His emergency response skills have been finely honed by 30 years of responses to all levels of incidents. His resource protection extends to the smallest bit of fauna, through the mammal and fish population, to leading our system with his proactive tree replacement program. His leadership and problem solving abilities have manifested themselves through all areas of his job duties and responsibilities, from budgets, to resource management, to teamwork with the many agencies and entities a Ranger deals with on a regular basis. Under Tracy’s leadership Bull Shoals-White River State Park has the largest and most active volunteer group in the system. Tracy has an understanding and appreciation of the interpretive mission to the point that he requires all employees, no matter what department they work in to attend one interpretive program per month. Park Rangers are natural leaders and that is evident in Tracy’s career. He has led BSWRSP to winning Region 2’s Park of the Year numerous times, and in 2014 BSWRSP was awarded the overall Park of the Year Title for Arkansas State Parks for the second year in a row. A feat that had never been done before.
Tracy King
Bull Shoals - White River State Park, AR
Ms. Abajian is assigned to Griffith Park in Los Angeles, which at 4,310 acres is the largest urban park west of the Mississippi. She has touched the lives of thousands of underprivileged youth who might never have experienced and learned about flora and fauna in its natural habitat were it not for the interpretive program she coordinates and delivers at Griffith Park. She does a wonderful job!
Sharie Abajian
Griffith Park, CA
Olivia Morrison is the perfect example of what a Park Ranger should be. Not only is she hard working and dedicated, but she goes above and beyond each and every day. Olivia is not just a Park Ranger; she is also an animal care specialist. Just like any other Park Ranger, she spends her day protecting and helping to restore the natural wonders of Florida. However, Olivia does not stop there. She also spends her day protecting the natural wildlife that calls Florida home. The Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park provides a home for injured wildlife that can no longer survive in the wild. Olivia cares for a wide variety of injured birds, reptiles, red wolves, Florida panthers, bobcats, key deer, white-tailed deer, and Florida black bears. Olivia has been rehabbing Florida black bear cubs for many years and helps to successfully release these cubs back into the wild. Olivia is well loved by her peers, co-workers and volunteers. She comes to work each day with a can-do attitude and smile on her face. Olivia is always willing to learn something new and give each task her all. Since she has worked in the Florida Park Service, she has worn many hats including visitor service, maintenance, wildlife care and most recently prescribed burns. Olivia truly cares about the real Florida and the future of the Florida Park Service.
Olivia Morrison
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, FL
Fred Provost is a dedicated Park Ranger; he has spent his entire career supporting a very high visitation, high demand park (over 200,000 visitors annually and the largest camping park in Florida). I have continually received letters of praise from the guest, groups and organizations on his performance. He is always willing to prepare himself to perform better, in the past two years he has completed many training programs including engine academy, volunteer program for the state wide wild land fire team and received his certification for interpretation. As the Park’s Services Specialist and Volunteer Coordinator, his job performance has been beyond outstanding. With a very complicated volunteer program rotating through over 60-80 campground host/maintenance volunteers, he has single handedly created a smooth system and fair rotation system providing improved morale and increased applications throughout the year. His planning has also led to less down time and improved productivity by over 30%, done so by communication, training and planning; lessening any gaps in volunteer positions being field and training time. He has also helped me in outreach and CSO (Parks non-profit organization) recruitment where our members have increased by 40% including new board members and officers. Fred has created a reputation of great customer service leading the way organizing two major events a year and setting up programs and activities with multiple groups, from local schools to airstream camping clubs. Operation of a Volunteer Program with over 200 volunteers, all while being a key team member to the top revenue generating park in the state of Florida, shows his dedication and expertise is top notch. He continues to manage a stewardship of the Parks Service that is second to none. He is always an over achiever and a reliable ranger that the park service should cherish as a valuable team member. He received employee of the month for district one this past year and continues to perform well above most. He has my highest recommendation for Park Ranger of the year.
Fred Provost
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, FL
Park Manager Desmond Timmons epitomizes what the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites Division expects out of our Park Managers. Desmond started in January, 2012 as the Manager of Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park in Pine Mountain, Georgia, and quickly embraced the community. He has taken an active role building partnerships with local towns, tourist attractions, and the two volunteer organizations on the park: the Pine Mountain Trail Association and the Friends of FDR State Park. He joined the Rotary Club at his own expense to become more involved in community service and outreach. He serves as a mentor to young men in how to succeed in their life, school and career. His staff and volunteers have grown to appreciate him and his leadership because he sets goals, works hard to make them happen, and shares the reward of success with all involved.
One of the major projects that Desmond has been responsible for is the re-opening of the historic Liberty Bell swimming pool. This spring-fed pool was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930’s for public swimming and had fallen into disrepair. After improvements were made to the facility and the county government operated it for two seasons, Desmond and his staff took over operations and made a profitable facility by making adjustments to the guest experience. He offered a large selection of food and retail items that were never offered before, planned special events, held swimming lessons, hosted evening events, and allowed after hours rentals for private parties. He had a vision for this historic facility and put a plan into action which led it to successful profit margins for the past two seasons. Desmond’s commitment to preserve the park’s rich cultural and natural resources is a major focus. In 2012, he worked with the Pine Mountain Trail Association to commemorate a 1953 U.S. Air Force plane crash that occurred in the park. For this event, a marker was erected telling the history, artifacts from the crash were on display, and to highlight the day, the lone survivor of the crash was able to join the ceremony. His additional work includes numerous trail improvements and spearheading resource based interpretation.
Outstanding guest experience is Desmond’s forte. He wants his facilities to be the best they can possibly be and his facilities are in a constant state of improvement. Examples are group shelter renovations, restroom upgrades and cottage renovations. He has added a fleet of rental boats and kayaks along with aqua cycles to offer more for the guests, and his staff offers a large number of special events per year in addition to regular weekly programs. He led his staff to make huge improvements in the retail shop to offer items that appeal to all ranges of park visitors.
For these reasons and many more, Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites is proud to nominate Desmond Timmons as our Park Ranger of the Year.
Desmond Timmons
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, GA
Darrell began his career in 1996 as a seasonal employee with Department of Parks. He worked in recreation assisting with Mini Golf, Boat Dock and programming. In 1999 he became our Park Ranger. I am pleased to nominate Darrell for the Ranger of the Year Award. I have known and worked with Darrell for 18 years and have always found him dependable and efficient. In fact, I have never worked with a person who gives as much attention to needs of our visitors as he does. Also, his willingness to take on difficult situations has repeatedly impressed me over the years. His skills do not end there, he also projects a warm, cheerful attitude to our visitors. I have seen him resolve conflicts and handle other difficult situations with remarkable patience and admirable tact. In the community, he goes out of his way to help people in need. He loves people, works hard and always tries to lift the spirits of those around him. I believe these characteristics represent all that is good in our parks, and I am pleased to nominate Darrell for the honor of Park Ranger of the Year.
Darrell Tomlinson
General Butler State Resort Park, KY
Nicholas "Nick" Clemons is an unparalleled leader for both his park and the surrounding community. I've had the pleasure to work for and learn from Nick, and admire his dedication to educational outreach, ecological stewardship and the unique resources offered by Assateague. His expectations for his self, department, and staff are set very high--he brings out the best of those around him. Nick's dedication to fostering relationships with the surrounding schools and communities is unique. He guides many kids to public and ecological service and encourages them to become true leaders among their peers. Nick is reserved and not prone to self-promotion or flattery, but he deserves to be acknowledged for his steadfast dedication. Knowing Nick creates a reflection of the best possible future for oneself, our communities and our natural world.
Nicholas Clemons
Assateague Island National Seashore, MD
On 04/18/2015 at approximately 5:40 PM, Cpl. Brandon Bartz overheard radio traffic in reference to a possible suicide attempt by a female subject at Castlewood State Park. Cpl. Bartz was able to contact two rangers already in the park and continued to the area to assist. Upon arrival Cpl. Bartz, Cpl. Kitchell, Ranger Enloe, along with two other St. Louis County officers attempted to locate the victim. Two citizens near the cliff were able to guide the officers to the victim. She was 65 feet from the top of the cliff and approximately 140 feet from the bottom. Cpl. Bartz, without regards for his own safety, made a treacherous climb up the rock wall and was able to reach the victim. Once Cpl. Bartz made contact with the female, he observed that she was unconscious and her breathing was shallow and labored. Cpl. Bartz observed that both her feet and legs were deep purple in color, and he made repeated attempts to get the victim to regain consciousness. With much effort, Cpl. Bartz was able to get the female to regain consciousness. Cpl. Bartz explained to her that he was there to help, and that rescue workers were on the way. He advised the victim to keep calm and focus on her breathing. Cpl. Bartz observed that the female was complaining of severe pain in her legs, he was able to calm her down and encourage her to breathe. The only thing holding the victim and Cpl. Bartz was a small tree. At one point the victim fell out of consciousness again and stopped breathing. Cpl. Bartz was able to assist her in regaining consciousness and she began breathing again. The victim started to panic and asked Cpl. Bartz to hold her hand. He grasped the victim’s hand and assured her that he was going to get her out of there very soon. He continued to have her focus on her breathing. The female began to vomit and Cpl. Bartz was able to move her head to the side to keep her from aspirating. After approximately 45 minutes, supported by only a small tree, rescue units were able to reach both Cpl. Bartz and the victim and evaluated an extrication plan. After two hours and 15 minutes on the cliff, both were extricated to safety. The female victim was flown by helicopter to the local hospital where she was treated for severe internal and skeletal injuries.
The above account of the incident clearly demonstrates that Cpl. Bartz, without regard for his own well-being, went above and beyond the call of duty to provide immediate care and render assistance to this helpless victim. His brave and decisive actions likely saved the woman’s life and demonstrate true heroism in the face of danger.
Cpl. Bartz took action that many others would not have. His selfless actions in my mind, most likely saved a human life.
Brandon Bartz
Dr. Edmund Babler Memorial State Park, MO
I had the pleasure of working with and watching Sgt. McFaul work his way up to Ranger Sgt at Cleveland Metroparks, a "Park District" in Ohio. He is as dedicated to protecting park visitors as he is keeping the park areas he's assigned to safe. He is also the supervising Sgt. for his area, training and tutoring new rangers just learning their positions. While he was assigned to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, he interacted with hundred if not a thousands visitors in a day. Whenever possible, he made every visitor he came in contact with, especially children, feel welcome. He also worked on various conservation details above and beyond his normal responsibilities. He did all this while at all times maintaining full knowledge of laws and the Park District's regulations. We are fortunate to have him and he is part and parcel to our Park District's mission statement.
Jerry McFaul
Cleveland Metroparks, OH
In the summer of 2015, Kiptopeke State Park experienced a law enforcement staff shortage resulting in a lot of overtime and staff burn-out. In addition to his duties at False Cape State Park, Kyle generously volunteered to assist Kiptopeke staff by providing night law enforcement patrols on three weekends allowing Kiptopeke staff some much needed time off. He provided great customer service to park guests and assured a quiet, family-oriented atmosphere at the pier and in the campgrounds. Besides managing False Cape he also serves as the chairperson for the Division's uniform committee and remains at the forefront of nuisance species management at False Cape working with state and federal organizations.
Kyle Barbour
False Cape State Park, VA
Our employee has had a phenomenal year of unexpected events, and yet continues to provide outstanding service! For the past seven years, Dave has managed two parks (Klemgard County Park - 59 acres and Wawawai County Park - 49 acres with a campground, and lives on site at Wawawai County Park in an earth-sheltered home, in the Snake River canyon. The canyon location allows for no cellular phone service (in the entire corridor) so Wawawai Park/Dave’s house frequently is the go-to place for emergency calls. In addition, with two universities within 28 miles, this makes for all hours of the day/night events knocking on his door. I can’t say that he has a smile on his face at three am when someone knocks, but I can say we have never once received any complaints! Now, envision no water in the park and at his house for 8 days due to a well pump failing. Envision replacing two seasonal employees/caretakers that were with the department for 45 years. Envision remodeling the old farm house those employees lived in for 45 years. Envision managing the replacement of a 50’x50’ day-use shelter roof when the project “blossomed” from a $17,000 job to approximately $75,000 job due to rot. Those are just this year’s “events” that Dave has and as I write, continues to work on….all in addition to the daily routine duties and now the winterization of the parks. Dave is one of four employees that make up the Whitman County Parks Department (we hire two to three seasonal part-time employees during the summer months). We manage six parks, so in addition to daily duties, Dave also frequently helps in the other parks, as well as other Whitman County Departments. Dave has a strong work ethic and an attitude of getting things done while keeping the public’s perception of the helpful park ranger alive and well! Thank you for this opportunity to nominate Dave. We are proud to have him as an employee and Whitman County is lucky to have him as their Park Ranger for Klemgard and Wawawai County Parks.
David Mahan
Wawawai County Park/Klemgard County Park, WA
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR), Parks and Recreation Section would like to nominate Sam Cowell for the 2015 Service Wear Apparel Park Ranger of the Year Award. Cowell is a 13 year veteran of the Parks Section. He is the Superintendent of Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park near the town of Summersville in Nicholas County. Carnifex Ferry Battlefield is unique among West Virginia State Park areas. It is a historic site as a Civil War Battlefield and it also serves as the location for the DNR sign manufacturing shop. Sam and his crew of three employees manages the needs of a historic area complete with battle reenactments, museum curation and public recreation components, with a manufacturing facility which creates thousands of signs annually for an entire section of state government. The retirement of a key staff person in 2015 created additional work pressure but Cowell succeeded in all his responsibilities with a much smaller work force.
Sam is an employee who gives generously of his many talents to the agency and his fellow parks and park employees. In 2015, in addition to the management requirements listed above, he served in the following roles for the agency: Director of the Parks Honor Guard – Managing and directing participation and performance of Park Rangers serving as honor guard for fallen employees and families throughout the park system. Chair of Uniform Committee – Responsibilities include chairing a committee of park staff which select and purchase uniform items to be work by the 1,500 + employees of the section. Director of Controlled Hunt Team – leads a team of Park Rangers in organizing and implementing controlled Whitetail Deer hunts on multiple park areas throughout the state. Wildlife Damage Control Specialist – Assists Park Rangers throughout the state in dealing with nuisance wildlife. Firearms Instructor – Serves as one of the five firearm instructors who are responsible for training and qualifying the 65 Park Rangers in the section.
Mr. Cowell is also an exceptionally creative individual who is willing to use the ability across the agency. With the assistance of sign shop staff, Sam has undertaken many projects around the system which have resulted in huge savings. These projects include constructing and installing historically accurate exterior shutters on the mansion at Blennerhassett Island State Park, building 50 sets of bunk beds for the Group Camp at Tomlinson Run State Park, built and delivered hundreds of Memorial Benches donated to parks by families wishing to honor family members, manufactured new picnic tables and fire grills for multiple park areas and rebuilt the sluice way on the Glade Creek Grist Mill at Babcock State Park.
Sam Cowell
Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, WV
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2014
Park Ranger of the Year
Ryan is worthy of nomination for his steady work in planning for Washington State Parks. He has worked tirelessly to obtain funding for and remodeling of and interpretation of resources for visitors across Washington, including work for 22 of the State's parks that highlight Ice Age Flood geologic events. In particular, Ryan has been influential in the planning for a new Dry Falls State Park visitor facility, the flagship location for Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail, and in the design, construction, and presentation of new interpretive exhibits for that site, which opened on June 28, 2014. Ryan's steady support for quality visitor experiences, not only in State, but National Parks, sets him apart as one who truly cares for the resources of, and visitors to, some of Washington's most unique and cherished locations.
Ryan Karlson
Washington State Parks, Washington
John Mullen is a capable and respectful Park Manager. He is a true community partner. He has gone above and beyond to engage diverse communities and build access to Tryon Creek State Natural Area for all. John is able to balance the history and culture of Oregon State Parks and navigate a forward trajectory towards inclusion of all people and the ecological restoration of our treasured urban forest. He is uniquely positioned in Oregon's only urban State Park with 500,000 visitors annually to build awareness for the parks system statewide and does! We are so lucky to have him here at Tryon Creek State Natural Area as he is a model for the next generation of Park Managers. He is a worthy recipient of acknowledgement for his tremendous efforts and impact to protect Oregon's natural heritage.
John Mullen
Tyron Creek State Natural Area, Oregon
When I was young, I used to love going to the fort to play on the huge Osage tree out front during the days and watching the live drama of "The Legend of Daniel Boone" on summer nights. We even had our family reunion at the park every year. I moved out of state for seven years and was so disappointed with the park when I moved back to Kentucky in 1991. I learned that the amphitheater was in disrepair and the live performances had been discontinued. There were very few activities there and most days you couldn't even tell if it was open.
David Coleman has gone above and beyond as the manager at Old Fort Harrod State Park. One of the first things I noticed was a colorful flag that said "welcome" and "open". Now, there are so many events there now that draw not only locals, but tourist as well. He even brought back the live dramas that entertain and teach attendees about the history and settlement of Harrodsburg and Kentucky.
David Coleman
Old Fort Harrods State Park, Kentucky
I began working with Alabama State Parks in 2012. Randy interviewed and transferred to my park a few months later. He is one of the hardest working employees I have ever had in my career. He is loyal, trustworthy, honest, reliable, intelligent, kind hearted and just all around "good people." He is young and very ambitious so therefore everything I teach him he absorbs like a sponge. He does well at most tasks he is assigned and learns from his mistakes humbly when he doesn't. His job and his family are his passions and it shows in everything he touches. His knowledge of law enforcement and courage under fire are honorable as well. He's definitely worth your Ranger of the Year Award.
Randy Stuts
Gulf State Park, Alabama
I began working with Alabama State Parks in 2012. Randy interviewed and transferred to my park a few months later. He is one of the hardest working employees I have ever had in my career. He is loyal, trustworthy, honest, reliable, intelligent, kind hearted and just all around "good people." He is young and very ambitious so therefore everything I teach him he absorbs like a sponge. He does well at most tasks he is assigned and learns from his mistakes humbly when he doesn't. His job and his family are his passions and it shows in everything he touches. His knowledge of law enforcement and courage under fire are honorable as well. He's definitely worth your Ranger of the Year Award.
Randy Stuts
Gulf State Park, Alabama
Ranger Charles “Chuck” Helton serves as a wonderful ambassador for Missouri State Parks and its law enforcement group, the Ranger Program. Ranger Helton has shown a major commitment to promoting Missouri’s state parks and historic sites, as well as the Ranger Program, through outreach and educational programming. He has personally presented the nationally acclaimed Hug-A-Tree and Survive program to more than 1,000 children in his area of assignment. Ranger Helton has received numerous requests to expand his efforts and provide the Hug-A-Tree and Survive program to many other school-age children in the surrounding area.
This year, Ranger Helton has also personally participated in several trail rescues. The majority of these rescues have taken place along the 13-miles section of Taum Sauk Mountain Trail, located within Taum Sauk Mountain State Park. The remote, rugged and extremely challenging terrain found within Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, the highest point in Missouri, makes these rescues of particular note.
It is also worthy to mention that Ranger Helton is assigned to Johnson Shut-Ins State Park, a one-of-a-kind, natural-made water park. The park is aptly named for one of its biggest attractions, the shut-ins, which draw thousands of visitors annually. While scenic, beautiful and fun, the park and shut-ins pose safety and security challenges for all park and law enforcement staff alike. Most shifts, Ranger Helton stands watch over the shut-ins, helping keep park visitors and patrons safe and secure. During the course of those duties, he has helped with several swift water rescues, often placing his own safety at risk to help the public he is sworn to protect.
Ranger Helton is a professional in every sense of the word. I am honored to nominate him for the ServiceWear Apparel, Park Ranger of the Year.
Chuck Helton
Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, Missouri
Metro Park Ranger Jim Caudell is most deserving of Park Ranger of the year. He is responsible for a variety of properties, but he demonstrated his commitment to the environment and to Portland's underserved and marginalized community by singlehandedly leading efforts to create a safe, enjoyable, family friendly sandy beach park just minutes from Portland's historically minority-owned neighborhoods.
For over 15 years Jim experienced litter, trash, broken bottles, needles and more at Portland's Broughton Beach and last year decided he had had enough. Despite his daily walks and checks of the beach, he could not keep up with the overwhelming debris left at the facility, most of which was deposited after hours during nighttime bonfires and parties. He put out metal trash cans. They were stolen for scrap value. He replaced them with large, durable plastic trash cans; they were burned in bonfires.
Jim realized he needed a “clean sweep” and an effort to “restart” the park as a safe, family place. At a Parks and Recreation conference, he met and negotiated with a "sand sifting" company and encouraged them to bring their "sand sifter" up to Oregon to rehabilitate this long-neglected stretch of beach along the Columbia River.
Jim rented it for a week and removed over 100 tons of trash and debris from the beach—these are materials he never could have removed with the old handpicking methods. He convinced his bosses to close the beach at sunset, and he established night time patrols for security. More importantly, he transformed the beach from an “anything goes” nighttime party to a safe, enjoyable, family space. This summer, Jim will be renting the sand sifter once again—a small effort that has a huge effect on creating an inviting urban beach for some of Portland’s most needy residents. In this day of pursuing equity in government service to all types of people, Jim rises above the rest.
Jim Caudell
Broughton Beach Park, Oregon
Paul reorganizing entire school district (closing 4 schools, redistricting the county, naming 6 new schools, separating middle school into 5-6 and 7-8 schools). He was also in charge of hiring principals for 6 new schools, adjusting bus routes. He lobbied in Frankfort, KY for the district’s right to reconvene facility planning
Paul Christy
Clark County Board of Education, Kentucky
Bobby vies for staff development, International Baccalaureate/Middle Years Program, Advanced Placement, and Dual enrollment programs. Working with a highly transient student population - one-third of 6,3000 students from Fort Lee Military Installation. He encourages staff to get training to help these students cope with having multiple tours of duty overseas away from family while being raised by extended family (these kids have little to no communication from parents). He collaborated with local police and administration to develop a crime solver alliance for students to report violations.
Bobby Browder, Ed. D.
Prince George County Public Schools, Virginia
Dr. Lemback led the district as one of Georgia’s first to offer IB Middles Years program for grades 6-10, and Sawyer Road Elementary is one of only school systems nationwide able to provide a full K-12 IB program. She also help make Marietta Center for Advanced Academics one of 236 public schools nationwide recognized by the US Secretary of Education for Exemplary High Performance.
Also, Marietta High School is a US News & World Report silver medal winner and named one of the best high schools in the country by the Washington Post. During the recent “snowjam”, Dr. Lembeck stayed overnight to ensure students were taken care of, meals were provided, and that all students and staff made it home safely as soon as possible.
Dr. Emily Lembeck
Marietta City Schools, Georgia
Concho ESD6 covers 300 square miles and averages 180 students – very transient area with over 80% poverty rate and recently joined the district with larger, higher performing district in order to offer student resources that Concho could not provide on its own.
Leon Butler devised a plan that uses an incentive system that rewards students for school work and citizenship that has greatly reduced discipline issues and encourages parents to become more involved in the school - brings kids and parents together.
In the past three years, he has instituted a robotics class, purchased Google Chrome books, and hired a computer teacher. This year, he also created a full-scale music program.
Leon Butler
Concho Elementary School District #6, Arizona
Dr. Taylor served as superintendent for the past six years. Calhoun City Schools has the 3rd highest average graduation rate in the state at 94%. In 2003, the graduation rate was 67%. The schools also had the fifth lowest per student expenditure last year – well below the state average – but Dr. Taylor’s financial planning and leadership system anticipated the decrease in state funding and built and trained staff on how to maximize funding to support student learning. Calhoun City Schools has earned record numbers of region and state championships in academics, arts and athletic competitions. All schools have earned Distinguished Title I Schools recognition, a National Blue-Ribbon Schools of Excellence Award, Governor's Platinum Awards, AP Honor and Merit School Awards and the system has had schools on the U.S. News and World Report's "Best Schools in the Nation" list.
Dr. Michele Taylor
Calhoun City Schools, Georgia
Mr. Parker helped Hardin Independent School District overcome great obstacles, such as low-test scores, budget issues, low staff morale and poor community relations, to assure the success of all students, campuses, staff and community. He helped to improve the budget to once again allow Hardin ISD to be salary competitive and retain, encourage and gain quality staff. He asks pride and excellence in our students and staff. He helps improve test scores, with a focus on curriculum and increased communications with the community through various resources.
Bob Parker
Hardin Independent School District, Texas