Melody Beattie said, “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.”
Could a quote about Thanksgiving ever be so on point for the times in which we live? This is a time of year for appreciation; for the things we have had, the things we have, as well as the things that we will be graced with in the future. I am thankful for the opportunity and right to believe as I choose, I am thankful for the family that I have, I am thankful for a nice place to live and work, and I am thankful to be a part of something bigger! I am thankful that I get to do what I do with some of the most professional, service-driven people that I could have ever imagined serving with.
We all have different family rituals, customs and plans for what Thanksgiving means to each of us. My Thanksgiving wish for you, the members and friends of the Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police, is to stop and take a minute to appreciate where we live, our abundant lives, and those that serve with us in this noblest of professions.
I am thankful to you, the members of the OACP, for all you do to continually make the decision to lead, and to support each other, even when it seems like we can’t do one more thing, but you do. Thank you!
The Small Agency Conference was once again a great success and the members who participated, presented, and created content were amazing. We all had some great conversations, time spent together, and even some great BBQ! I hope that this conference will continue to grow, and it appears that it will. Special thanks to Retired Chiefs Groth, Ferraris, Rueben and Chief Troxel for all you did to make this a successful event!
I always need to be sure to thank the Victory Group - Kevin, Marie, Liz and Chloe - for their efforts to keep me on track with tasks that need completing, and for their tireless efforts to keep us in the middle of key conversations as we move into another long legislative session. I am especially thankful for the things that the Victory Group do to keep the OACP at the table for discussions and prove the relevance of our ability to support meaningful legislation for all Oregonians, which also makes the OACP successful in meeting our mission.
Theodore Roosevelt once said; “Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips and shows itself in deeds.” Please take the time this week in some form or manner to thank your staff for all that they do in service to the communities and each other. Don’t forget about those that will be working on the holiday, and that they will likely need an additional thank you! My wish for you all is to have a blessed and peaceful holiday for your agency, and especially for you and your family!
Take care!
Mark Daniel
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A handful of OACP members responded thoughtfully to the question, "What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?"
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I am thankful for the amazing City I get to work in and for the amazing men and women who serve and protect Tigard. But most of all I am thankful for my family. Being a grandparent really is as great as they say it is. Happy Thanksgiving, may you and yours be blessed with joy and happiness this holiday season.
Chief Jamey McDonald,
Tigard PD
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I’m thankful I had the honor of serving in the most noble profession in the world, while surrounded by some of the greatest people a person could ever meet. And a wife who supported me through all the ups and downs the job had to offer. I still miss it, sometimes….
Chief Jerry Moore, Salem PD (Ret.)
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I am most thankful for my family -specifically their continued support of me in my professional life as I transitioned to a new role within my department this past year.
Deputy Chief Debbie Aguilar, Salem PD
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First and foremost, I am deeply grateful for the men and women of our department who work tirelessly, day in and day out, to ensure the safety and well-being of the Umatilla community. I’m also thankful for the families of our officers and staff, who provide unwavering support. The sacrifices they make – missing holidays, birthdays, and countless moments together-are felt by all of us, and their encouragement keeps us strong.
Chief Ron Bridge, Umatilla PD
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The first thing that comes to mind is family. Without the support of Tammy, not only as a spouse, mother to our children, and co-worker, she’s the glue that keeps us together or the oil that keeps our machine (CCPD) running. We were blessed with two boys who are now both adults and very involved in our community (Saw supervisor / Charge Nurse (RN). We also enjoy taking care of the three grand babies. Our extended LEO family / board goes without saying and makes my job a lot easier.
Chief Marty Case, Cow Creek PD
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As we enter this season of thankfulness, I find myself reflecting on the many blessings in my life. I am grateful for the roles I have been entrusted with, each of which brings its own unique joys and responsibilities. As a Law Enforcement Executive, I am thankful for the privilege of serving and protecting our community. I am inspired daily by the dedication, courage, and teamwork of those I work alongside. Together, we make a difference, and I am deeply appreciative of the trust and support we receive from the community. As a mother and grandmother, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for my family. They are my heart and my greatest joy. Watching my children succeed in life and seeing my granddaughters smile reminds me to focus on the beauty and hope in the world that is there if you’re looking. As a wife, I am thankful for the steadfast partnership and love of my husband. Life’s challenges and blessings are made richer because we face them together. As a friend, I am grateful for the people who stand by me, offer encouragement, share laughter, and remind me of the importance of connection and kindness. I also want to express my thanks to each of you for the unwavering dedication, resilience, and support you bring to our profession, to the men and women you lead and to the communities you serve.
Major Teresa Livingston, OSP
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As I reflect on my life, I am so thankful for the many blessings that God has given to me and my loved ones and the gift of good health, peace, and safety. I am thankful for the protections He provides to our brothers and sisters who serve in law enforcement and our department. I am also grateful for my family whose love and support keep me grounded, and I would not be where I am today without them by my side, Specifically my father. I am thankful for the many friendships and relationships over the years that have taught me so much and continue to. I am thankful for the opportunity to lead this department. It is a great privilege to serve in this role and I am humbled by it. On behalf of the Hubbard-Donald Police Department, we hope everyone finds peace, joy, and gratitude. Let’s cherish each other, be kind, and always remember the power of coming together. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!!!
Chief Don Parise, Hubbard - Donald PD
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