Local 9-1-1 dispatchers and partners receive state recognition

The Oregon Chapter of the Association of Public-Safety Communications-National Emergency Number Association (APCO-NENA) has recognized three Deschutes 9-1-1 dispatchers and a Bend Fire & Rescue Captain for the work they do each day to help keep our communities safe.

The following staff received statewide recognition:

Angela Guthrie, Telecommunicator of the Year – The Telecommunicator of the Year Award recognizes a Telecommunicator who demonstrates the highest level of commitment to the profession through dedication to continuous improvement, initiative in professional development, care of customers, investment in the center team, promotion of the Telecommunicator Code of Ethics, leadership by example and who, by act or deed, makes an exceptionally noteworthy contribution – thus positively impacting the telecommunications center in a significant way. Angela has been a dispatcher with Deschutes 9-1-1 since 2003.

Kelly Lovell, Deschutes 9-1-1: Lifesaver Award  – The Lifesaver Award recognizes an individual, team, center or centers who exemplify commitment to service above and beyond the call of duty through innovative/quick thinking, initiative, excellent use of knowledge and skills seldom drawn upon, calm and controlled presence of mind, extraordinary individual or team effort – which results in the preservation of human life. Kelly has been a dispatcher with Deschutes 9-1-1 since 2015.

Becky Turk, Deschutes 9-1-1 - Commitment to Excellence Award  – The Commitment to Excellence Award recognizes a Telecommunicator, group of Telecommunicators or an Agency who has demonstrated commitment to the principles of excellence in 9-1-1 Telecommunications through the following efforts and actions:  Dedication to the profession through comprehensive knowledge and skills; creative/innovative approaches to quality improvement (such as enhanced customer service policies/programs, quality improvement programs, techniques and reviews, etc.); promotion of the Telecommunicator Code of Ethics by example; leadership and mentoring of co-workers which provides a substantial contribution to the overall improvement and successful operation of the 9-1-1 Center; developing innovative and creative approaches to training concepts designed to improve quality of service; quality of service is consistent and without bias. Becky has been a dispatcher with Deschutes 9-1-1 since 2012.

Petar Hossick, Bend Fire & Rescue: Telecommunications Partner Award – The Telecommunications Partner Award recognizes any person who is employed by an organization other than a telecommunications center (private sector, commercial vendor, police/fire department, etc.) or an individual (community member, volunteer, legislator or elected official, etc.) whose supportive actions have made an extremely noteworthy contribution, thus positively impacting emergency telecommunications locally, regionally or statewide. Petar was nominated by Deschutes 9-1-1 in recognition of his work with incorporating 9-1-1 into the cardiac survival chain, create and provide innovative training for dispatchers in recognizing cardiac arrest and other life-critical issues and then understanding the “why” behind the protocols used to help our community members on scene until a first responder arrives on scene. 

“We are honored that three of our employees and one of our partner agencies’ were recognized this year by the Oregon Chapter of APCO/NENA,” said Deschutes 9-1-1 Director Sara Crosswhite. “9-1-1 call-takers and dispatchers in Deschutes County, across our state and beyond are proud to be the first point of contact for citizens calling 9-1-1 and strive to provide excellent service and often life savings instructions.”