Well, we’ve made it (mostly) through another year. 2021 was the FIRST year of OFFICER Magazine and I’d like to start out thanking you, our readership. For each of you who has emailed me a critique, caught a mistake, sent a compliment… whatever. Thank you.
2021 also saw us (somewhat) return to normal after the COVID focused/saturated year of 2020. As vaccinations were delivered and infection numbers dropped, we were looking good. Then the Delta variant popped up (and now the Omicron variant), the vaccine mandate created challenges, and the younger emergency approval use created concern among a lot of parents. As I type this those challenges are ongoing, and I look forward to the day when final judgments are made. I encourage everyone to do what they feel is best, based on their own research and information gathering, for themselves and their family.
In this issue you’ll find information about our Law Enforcement Station Design contest and see the award winners along with some honorable mentions. I confess that when we first started this endeavor, I was skeptical (understatement). But as we wrap up our second year, I’ve realized just how many agencies are either building new, expanding or refurbishing their facilities. If you’ve not paid attention to this material, give it a look. You might be surprised and if your agency is planning any such work, you can learn some valuable information.
Last month we had a Christmas Wish List for the officers in your life (or for yourself if you’re so included). The closing column in this issue is my personal wish list. I will make sure my wife reads it and there are only about five things on it. Give it a look and see if it adds any more good ideas for your holiday shopping.
And speaking of holiday shopping, there is so much mixed information out their about shortages, shipping problems, etc. For all that, there is also information about how the supply chain is more efficient than ever and the retail business is raging strong. Thinking about that, the commercial stores in your jurisdiction will either be seeing record sales (and crowds) or they’ll be seeing record disputes (in those crowds). Stay on your toes and be alert. You don’t go on many customer dispute calls where there’s no crowd. You’re nearly always out numbered. Remember your officer survival priorities and manage that risk accordingly.
Last but not least, no matter what flavor of religion you practice, make time to enjoy the holiday season. Relaxing and enjoying the blessing of time off helps us manage our stress and reminds us of some of the reasons why we do the job. Don’t neglect that part. Take the time. Enjoy it. Give. Receive. Appreciate. Ponder the coming year. Next month we’ll have some information about resolutions—and what makes sense.
Happy Holidays. Stay safe!
