Phone: 719-634-0058 Fax: 719- 634-0755 · My guess is that most of the Colorado Springs voters...
Transcript of Phone: 719-634-0058 Fax: 719- 634-0755 · My guess is that most of the Colorado Springs voters...
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Volume 18, Issue 3
April 2014
THE CENTURION Serving the men and women of the Colorado Springs Police Department since 1971
CSPPA Office: 559 E. Pikes Peak # 102 Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Phone: 719-634-0058 Fax: 719- 634-0755
Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 8-4 Wed 8-2 Toll Free: 866-471-6308 www.csppa.org
Critical Incident Phone: 719-229-9227
Letter from the President: Greetings, We survived the winter but not without a little frost bite. I hope you all have awesome vacation plans for the spring and summer. Don’t forget to include the CSPPA Sky Sox game on July 12 and Fallen Officers Memorial Golf Tournament on June 30 within those plans. Recently a few Board Members and I have been contacted in regard to concerns over Department morale. I know Patrol is pushed to the limit on calls for service, follow up, computer issues, programs, projects, PT Test etc. We meet with the Chiefs every month in attempts to make improvements and voice your frustrations. At times it may seem like no one gives a damn, but I assure you the Chiefs ask, listen and consider making changes when appropriate. I think the extra duty changes are a perfect example of member involvement and collaboration between the department and the CSPPA. The changes are not perfect but it’s much better than what was originally proposed: making the extra duty program a first come first serve computer sign up. We are here to represent you; your Board Members, Office Staff and I take all of your concerns seriously. I encourage you to be part of the solution and bring your innovative thoughts and ideas for improvement to us so we can discuss with the Chief and Deputy Chiefs. I realize there is some anxiety over the upcoming Physical Ability test and we are looking at some avenues to assist. Your CSPPA gym has some new equipment. Penrose and St Francis hospital’s work out facilities and fitness information are available too. In case you have not heard there is also a financial incentive for those that pass the test. Ultimately officers would be allowed some duty time to work out but that is just not in the cards right now.
Bill Elder won the Republican caucus and absent any unforeseen circumstances should be the next Sheriff of El Paso County. I think Bill will work very well with the CSPPA and create a much needed collaborative relationship with the CSPD and Sheriff’s Department. Many ask why we supported Bill Elder. Bill is a big supporter of regional Law Enforcement efforts which does not mean he wants to take over the Police Department. He simply wants to combine some areas like Training, Air Support and others, which in the long run will save regional agencies money and allow us to be more efficient. This will also help create a better working relationship with EPSO and the Municipal Police Departments within the County. With the implementation of Bill’s plan the city is poised to save upwards of $10M which is sorely needed in other areas of the budget. We supported Bill because of his innovative ideas, professionalism and commitment to advancing the needs of Police Officers and Sheriff’s Deputies. I encourage you to read Bills CSPPA questionnaire on the web page archives. Bill Elder has stated to the CSPPA and within his platform that the 1A Sheriff’s Tax initiative would not have passed if based solely on the rural vote. The citizens of Colorado Springs carried this initiative. My guess is that most of the Colorado Springs voters believe some of this revenue goes to support CSPD and other Police agencies within the County, however it does not. Bill is in favor of using the funds to better assist all of us. I want to remind everyone that our support of Bill was exclusively Continued on
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Save the Date! CSPPA Sky Sox Game
Saturday July 12, 2014 6:05 pm game
Free for members and immediate family
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President’s Letter continued: just that and not to be against his opponents. Bill entered the race early and only had one candidate against him until just a few weeks prior to the Republican Caucus. Candidate Jim Reid had very little Law Enforcement experience, and though it is not required by statute it is crucial to the position. John Anderson definitely had the experience and no one could question that. John just waited way too late in the game to announce his candidacy. John is a long-time member of our organization and we look forward to his next endeavor. Many think this race is decided in November, however it was actually decided at the caucus on March 29th, which is why we endorsed so early. The political arena is not fun and at times unpopular and uncomfortable, but I think our involvement is essential to advancing the needs of our members. When you hear some of the names of those interested in running for City Council and Mayor I believe you will be in favor of our involvement and candidate support. Don’t underestimate the strength in numbers; with nearly nine hundred members we can impact any election within this community. Robin, a few Board members, and I met with Human Resource Director Mike Sullivan and his staff in regard to workman’s compensation issues. Mike has been very receptive to our concerns and is committed to improving customer service between you and the work comp adjusters. I recently went through a work related injury (stupid Police Honda motorcycle) and once I got through the usual preliminary inquisition and suspicion interview, the treatment was pretty good. Mr. Sullivan is committed to making improvements on our claims and working with us. Work related injuries are stressful enough and unprofessional treatment from adjusters should not be occurring. Stick up for yourself if you sustain a work related injury and involve the CSPPA for guidance if needed. Stay informed so you don’t miss out on upcoming events. We are attempting to secure an instructor for a training seminar in the near future. This course will be of no cost for members and a slight fee for nonmembers and outside agencies. We hope to schedule this class for two separate days so we can accommodate several members Members need to be aware that if you are the defendant of a Criminal or Traffic case (on or off duty related) that is not settled at first appearance, you will most likely be placed on the Brady List. The Brady List contains the names of defendants that could be called as a witness for the Prosecution on a separate case. The Districts Attorney’s office obtained legal opinion from an outside private firm and believes they are complying accordingly. Unfortunately this list is generously shared with the Defense Attorneys in the area, and you could be asked under oath if you are or have ever been on the Brady list. An on duty traffic accident which you are summoned for can land you on the “B” list also, if you choose not to accept a deal at first appearance. A deferred sentence may earn you a spot on the list as well. This is an unpleasant situation however; we have a great attorney at your disposal for guidance on duty related incidents. Please refer to Rich Radabaugh’s letter on page 4 in this newsletter for more information regarding this subject. We are actively engaged with the Chiefs regarding our stance on the issuing of tickets for on duty traffic accidents. We are also working hard to keep them in the loop regarding MFR/CAD and the unintended consequences on patrol. We see how many times decisions made at the upper level can have negative consequences on patrol officers who are already stretched to the maximum. With the number of calls for service continuing to rise, and with less than the minimum staffing available, there is no doubt that patrol is getting hit hard. I ask that you keep us informed as to what you perceive as problems that are making your jobs more difficult with potential solutions. We will be more than happy to take those concerns and solutions to the Chiefs during our monthly meetings. Continued on page 3
ATTENTION! ATTENTION! ATTENTION! ATTENTION! On November 15, 2013 a member ordered 2 accessories from RSR through the PPA
FFL. These items arrived a week later, and are still in the office. We have NO IDEA who these items belong to. If you are the rightful owner, please call the office and identify the
products. You will still need to pay sales tax, but who ever can describe these items may have them!
(This is why you are requested to contact Rhonda at the office when you place an order).
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APRIL AND MAY DATES TO REMEMBER:
“Everything you ever wanted to know” About
Officer Involved Shootings (But were afraid to ask)
Save The Date: Thursday September 18th 6-8 pm
Panel discussion moderated by Chief Carey. Sponsored by the CSPPA and
CSPD Family and Friends Committee
EVENT APRIL MAY PPA Board Meeting Thursday April 3 at 11:30 Thursday May 1 at 11:30
Extra Duty Tues April 15 Sun May 18
Extra Hours Thurs April 17 Thurs May 15
Retiree Luncheon- Inn at Garden Plaza Mon April 14 Mon April 14
Civil Service Commission N/A Tues May 6 8:30 CAB
Office Closed/ Holiday N/A May 26 MEMORIAL DAY
President’s Letter continued: We have had a very packed agenda at the last two monthly meetings, and only got through about a third of it at each meeting. We had to schedule a second monthly meeting for April to clear up some of those pending issues. As the membership grows so does the work load. That’s all folks,
Barry Freeman
Greatness can come from not just expressing convictions,
but from rising above them. – Richard Reeves
ATTENTION: FPPA Statewide Pension Plan Members (Members with a hire date after 2006)
There is an important statewide vote occurring in June 2014 that is critical for you to vote in. If you want more information go to www.fppaco.org or
Contact Mike Ray (CSPPA BOD member) at 719-313-1250 for more information. Pay attention to this, folks, it is an important vote!
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BRADY V. MARYLAND
Mandatory Disclosure and the Brady List
There has been discussion lately with the members and the Board regarding being placed on the “Brady
List.” It is a misconception among police officers that you have to be dishonest or incredible to have your
name on the Brady List. This is simply not true. There are many reasons for being on the Brady list that
have nothing to do with an Officer’s honesty or credibility. To understand this it is important to know
exactly what the case Brady v. Maryland really means.
Background Information:
In July 1958, John Brady was 25 years old when he was arrested and charged with first-degree murder.
His girlfriend, Nancy Boblit Magowan, a married woman, was pregnant with his child, and the couple
needed cash. Desperate for money, John, along with Nancy’s brother, Donald Boblit, decided to rob a
bank. During the planning, Brady suggested the need for a getaway car, and the duo planned to steal the
car of a mutual friend, William Brooks. Boblit and Brady seized Brooks’ car at gunpoint, struck him with
a shot gun, and drove him to secluded field. They then walked Brooks to the edge of the woods where one
of the men strangled him to death with a shirt.
Once arrested, both men gave several statements to detectives. Brady consistently denied killing Brooks
and claimed that Boblit committed the actual murder. Boblit did the same, giving several statements and
claiming in all but one that Brady was the killer. In Boblit’s fifth statement, given on July 9th, he admitted
that he strangled Brooks.
The key issue in the case related more to penalty than guilt. Both men were convicted in separate trials of
first-degree murder and sentenced to death. In Boblit’s trial, prosecutors used the July 9th confession to
convict and justify his death sentence. That July 9th statement never was presented at Brady’s trial, and
Brady’s lawyer was neither provided a copy nor was he even aware it existed until he read the transcript
from Boblit‘s trial. Brady could never have been sentenced to death if the Boblit admission was known at
trial.
The facts of Brady v. Maryland led the U.S. Supreme Court to place an affirmative constitutional duty on
prosecutors to disclose exculpatory evidence to a defendant. Subsequent cases have extended this duty to
law enforcement agencies, requiring them to notify the prosecutor of any potential exculpatory
information. The Court held that withholding exculpatory evidence violates due process “where the
evidence is material either to guilt or to punishment” and determined that under Maryland state law the
withheld evidence could not have exculpated the defendant but was material to the level of punishment he
would receive. (See: Brady v. Maryland, 373 U.S. 83; 10 L.Ed 2d 215; 83 S.Ct. 1194 (1963).
“Brady” and “Brady material” refer to the holding of the Brady case and the numerous state and federal
cases that interpret its requirement that the prosecution disclose material exculpatory evidence to the
defense. Exculpatory evidence is material if “there is a reasonable probability that his conviction or
sentence would have been different had these materials been disclosed.” Brady evidence includes
statements of witnesses or physical evidence that conflicts with the prosecution’s witnesses and evidence
that result in the defense’s impeachment of the credibility of a prosecution witness. Courts take these
obligations seriously and have determined that, by definition, Brady violations by the government violate
an individual’s 14th Amendment right to due process of law, a cornerstone of the American judicial
system.
The Aftermath:
Since the Brady decision prosecutors have been careful to disclose any information to the defense that
could be considered even remotely exculpatory. The failure to disclose information helpful to the defense
could not only get a case dismissed but the prosecutor could be charged with “Prosecutorial Misconduct.”
Continued page 5 “Radabaugh”
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Radabaugh-
One of the more common practices is to place the names of police officers on a list that have in the past
been dishonest or had a sustained record for misrepresentation.
Police officers who have been dishonest are sometimes referred to as “Brady cops.”
Because the Brady ruling, prosecutors are required to notify defendants and their attorneys
whenever a law enforcement official involved in their case has a sustained record for
knowingly lying in an official capacity.1
Brady evidence also includes evidence material to credibility of a civilian witness, such as
evidence of false statements by the witness or evidence that a witness was paid to act as an
informant.1
But as you can see from the original case all exculpatory information that the prosecutor has knowledge of
has to be released to the defendant and their attorneys. For an example: a witness who received a plea
bargain in exchange for a lighter sentence would have to be disclosed to the defense even if the plea bargain
had nothing to do with the case. This is an example of Bias. Bias occurs when there may be an underlining
reason for someone to give testimony for or against a defendant. Another example is if a witness was to
take the stand and there was a family relationship to the defendant. The prosecution would be able to raise
the issue of the relationship as an example of possible bias.
Hence when a police officer is placed on the Brady list it may not be for lying or being dishonest but to
notify the defense that there is a possibility of bias. If a police officer had a child who was on probation for
a minor charge or on a deferred sentence, it is conceivable that his/her name would be on the Brady list
because he/she may testify for the prosecution and color his/her testimony so his/her child could receive a
favorable plea bargain. Or, if an officer received a deferred sentence for a traffic infraction he/she could be
placed, during the pendency of the deferred, on the list because there could be the appearance of bias.
One can argue that this may be too careful in not appearing to hold back information from the defendant
regarding potential exculpatory information. That is a discussion for another day. However, looking at the
facts in Brady there was never any mention of police misconduct. It just started the ball rolling that any
information that may be helpful to the defense has to be disclosed. That being said just having your name
on the list does not mean that there was any sustained dishonesty. Before making a personal judgment of
why someone is on the list, you must look at the underlying cause of the disclosure and not jump to
conclusions.
I hope this clears up some of the misconceptions regarding the Brady List.
Sincerely,
Richard D. Radabaugh
_________________________ 1 Hooper, Laural L;Marsh, Jennifer E.; and Yeh Brian. Treatment of Brady v. Maryland Material in United States District Courts’
Rules, Orders, and Policies: Report to the Advisory Committee on Criminal Rules of the Judicial conference of the United States, Federal Judicial Center, October 2004. 1 Sundby, Scott E. (2002). “Fallen Superheros and Constitutional Mirages: The Tale of Brady v. Maryland.” McGeorge Law
Review33.doi:10.2139/ssrn.361040.
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CSPPA FALLEN OFFICERS 2014 MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT ~ The most fun you will ever have playing golf! ~ In honor of all CSPD Officers killed in the line of duty. 100% of all proceeds will benefit the CSPPA Fallen Officer’s Fund. HONORARY CHAIRMAN: Coach Troy Calhoun, USAFA Football
Date: Monday, June 30 Time: 8 am shotgun start (Featuring explosive charge by the CSPD SWAT)
Format: 4-Man Scramble
Location: Country Club of Colorado (Cheyenne Mtn. Resort)
Pricing: Individual- $105 (CSPPA member)
$130 (non-member)
Includes: 18 Holes Golf with cart
Free Beer Continental breakfast Lunch burrito and drink 1st, 2nd, 3rd place prizes Closest to the Hole Longest Drive and Straightest Drive
Colorado Springs Police Protective Association’s Fallen Officer Fund provides support to the families of CSPD Officers who are killed or seriously injured in the line of duty. All donations are greatly appreciated as we work to rebuild this important fund.
Contact: Rhonda Keller, CSPPA 559 E. Pikes Peak # 102 Colorado Springs, CO 80903 719-634-0058
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Joke of the Month… ~Can Cold Water Clean Dishes?~
John went to visit his 90 year old grandfather in a very secluded, rural area of Saskatchewan. After spending a great evening chatting the night away, the next morning John's grandfather prepared breakfast of bacon, eggs and toast. However, John noticed a film like substance on his plate, and questioned his grandfather asking, 'Are these plates clean?' His grandfather replied, 'They're as clean as cold water can get ‘em. Just you go ahead and finish your meal, Sonny!' For lunch the old man made hamburgers. Again, John was concerned about the plates, as his appeared to have tiny specks around the edge that looked like dried egg and asked, 'Are you sure these plates are clean?' Without looking up the old man said, 'I told you before, Sonny, those dishes are as clean as cold water can get them. Now don't you fret, I don't want to hear another word about it!' Later that afternoon, John was on his way to a nearby town and as he was leaving, his grandfather's dog started to growl, and wouldn't let him pass. John yelled and said, 'Grandfather, your dog won't let me get to my car.’ Without diverting his attention from the football game he was watching on TV, the old man shouted! 'Coldwater, go lay down now, yah hear me!'
Meet Coldwater…
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A Note from the Executive Director’s desk: 2014 CSPPA Scholarships
Every year the Board of Directors awards 13 $1,000 scholarships in honor of the 13 CSPD officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives in the line of duty. This year we had 23 applications and are proud to announce the 13 winners. Award Recipient Benjamin Bish (EOW 6/26/1886) Brian Kelley John Rowan (EOW 9/13/1918) Hannah Gilman George Kaltenberger (EOW 6/12/1941) Sydney Sheppard Richard Birchfield (EOW 11/16/1953) Jessica Szatkowski Bernard Carter (EOW 5/14/1975) Emily Watson Dennis Ives (EOW 8/7/1975) Josef LeBeau Harry Allen (EOW 12/22/1975) Courtney Pool Augustus Perreira (EOW 4/12/1980) Lauren Murray Michael Hurley (EOW 2/27/1981) Landon DuVall Mark Dabling (EOW 12/6/1982) Alisa Phillips Jared Jensen (EOW 2/22/2006) Breanna Wood Ken Jordan (EOW 12/5/2006) Gabriela Santos Matt Tyner (EOW 7/24/2012) Christian Kelly The applications for scholarships include an essay regarding an inspirational story or an experience that changed the applicant’s life. Applications are judged on 20% leadership, 30% scholarship, and 50% on the essay. While we have outside judges that measure the applications to choose the winners, we are fortunate in the office to have the ability to read the essays, many of which were incredible! We are in process of asking scholarship winners for permission to publish the winning essays as we are sure you will enjoy seeing what tremendously gifted youth we have in our very own CSPD family! As space permits, we will try to get an essay published each month in this newsletter. Please take the time to read these great works. Thank you to all our applicants. We wish you all the best in your college career! Following is our first featured essay by Gabriela Santos, daughter of Maggie Santos and Jane Anderson.
Robin Rogers
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“An Inspirational Person” Essay by Gabriela Santos Ken Jordan Scholarship Recipient May 2014
Everyone says that high school is the best time of life, so in middle school, it's all I could look forward to. Within the first month of high school that idea was crushed. I was a lost soul. By the end of eighth grade I had started to slip into my own silent depression and no one knew. Nowhere I quite belonged and an aching heart, I felt as if I was all-alone and there was so much to take on. I didn't know how to express myself or where to turn. I withdrew into myself.
I began to let people in as the school year went on but still felt like something was missing. The few real friends I had were supportive but did not understand my state of mind. I could vent but no one could prove to me that I could be ok. High school looked like it was going to be the longest four years of my life. Soon though, I met a girl who would give me strength and change my life. By the time I reached soccer season my freshman year I had been beaten by the loneliness of high school and wasn't sure where to turn when, as a senior on the team, she took me under her wing.
She had gone to a different high school before mine and when she was a freshman had been taken under the wing of a senior, but it turned out not to be a wing of protection. Exposed to parties, alcohol, drugs, and the peer pressure that comes with that, she fell into the grips of heroin and a battle of depression that came with. She tried to kill herself. She was put into several mental hospitals following that but nothing had gotten her away from her drug use. During the beginning of her junior year, she was expelled when a large group possessing heroin was caught. That opened the doors for when our stories begin to intertwine.
The following year, I entered high school. Cleaner than she had been in the past and happy, she quit cutting going into senior year. In a small school, rumors fly and the ones I heard created mixed opinions of who this girl truly was. On top of that, the soccer team had a reputation for being mean and I did not have a desire to step on any toes. She was one of the most intimidating people on the team at first because she kept to herself. I never saw her being close to me, but she would turn out to be the closest person in my life.
She approached me first. I had had a bad day and broke down at our game. She texted me afterwards to make sure I was ok. We started talking more after that, taking turns telling our stories. She became the person I had needed all along. During soccer season, I started catching rides with her to practice and games. She'd take me to lunch and we'd talk. She'd tell me her stories of all the things she'd been through and I'd rant of all the things in my life that left me unsure and hurting. When I subbed into games with her, she'd grab my hand and it would take my nerves away. After graduation, I didn't see her much, I still don't, but I know she's always a text or email away, ready to give advice and help me find my way back to my feet.
Her strength to persevere gave me and continues to give me strength in life. She also opened up my eyes to be more inclusive to situations unlike my own. All the things she's ever said still run through my mind and when my days get hard I stop and think, "What would she say right now?" The wisdom she's given me plays back through my head and I keep moving forward because no matter how bad it gets, I know that I have someone on my side. Also, now when I meet new people, I don’t see them for the rumors and bad things that often are looked at first because now I know that even the kindest, most genuine people make bad choices. There’s time to change life.
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From the Private Side: Licensing for Private Investigators (2014 update) SB14-133 By: Richard Reisler (CSPD Ret.)
The past two years I have written an article on this subject, here is the latest. For the past 35 years
there has been no Colorado State License requirement in this industry (since ’79.) A few years ago
an effort was made to change that. It was, and remains, my opinion that the thrust behind this effort
reflects a group of people practicing in this industry with no Law Enforcement experience. I suspect
they are envious of us and also lose business to us. Retired Officers working in this industry do not
necessarily work full time (just like me, semi retired) and not dependant on the income. I draw this
conclusion because the group that initiated licensing wrote up the criteria for that license and
excluded all Law Enforcement experience( duh). That first draft a couple of years ago, if passed,
meant that with all the years working in Law Enforcement, for me and others, we would NOT be
considered qualified to investigate anything under State Licensing.
In that first go around a few years ago, DORA (the state regulatory agency) stated that there were no
complaints in this industry, they was reluctant to require a license to control something that was NOT
a problem. DORA also stated that they had no funds so, if a license was to be issued it, the cost of
the license had to pay for its administration via the License fee. Last year’s push for licensing
resulted in a “Voluntary License” you could get if you wanted, but it was not required. I can hear you
thinking - and you are correct. NOW, the cost of such a license has gone up (surprise) because not
that many voluntarily licenses were obtained. (I still would not have qualified last year) There
appears to be a $40,000.00 deficit from that Voluntary License! And you’re going to like this one -
the requirements for licensing will be decided AFTER the bill is passed, i.e., we gotta pass it to find
out what’s in it!
So, why should this matter? Many of you might be thinking that the PIs work is to get the bad guy
off, find fault with your work and all because of the money. I am sure there are people out there that
do that, both former Law Enforcement and ones without Police experience. As a rule, I do NOT
work criminal defense cases. I have worked a few small cases over the past 7 years, however, I have
turned down the “Big Bucks” for criminal defense work, and I have chosen to work in the Civil Law
area, locating and interviewing people involved in accidental injury cases, cases involving contesting
a Will, etc. I have written about such cases in this space. The fact of the matter is, that in any case,
criminal or civil, the investigator should be unbiased, fair & impartial and just collecting the
evidence. The arrested criminal does have a right to a defense and if the sworn investigation
represents that fair and impartial standard it won’t be blown over by anything an investigator on the
other side does. If you should decide to use the skills you have obtained as part of your career in Law
Enforcement, YOU SHOULD HAVE THE RIGHT TO DO THAT. And the client has a right to hire
an experienced investigator. That is why it is important. Let you know in next month’s article what
happens.
Be careful out there and watch their hands!
Calibre press and CSPPA presents:
Street Survival Seminar 4 free seats available for CSPPA members!
Training will be at the DOUBLETREE- WORLD ARENA August 25 &26
Interested in a free ticket? Contact Rhonda 634-0058. Lottery drawing July 25.
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~~CCOODDEE 77 SSUURRPPRRIISSEE~~ An anonymous citizen wishes to show her sincere appreciation for all that you do for our community. She is funding one gift card a month for one lucky PPA member and has asked staff to randomly draw a name once a month. The winner will be announced in the Centurion and on www.csppa.org. This month’s winner is:
Alan Hansen #4907
Please stop by the PPA office no later than May 30th to pick up your $10 gift card for lunch at Chipotle!
Congratulations Alan-- and thanks for all that you are doing to serve the citizens of Colorado Springs!
Another joke for the month~ The Nagging Wife
An old hillbilly farmer had a wife who nagged him unmercifully. From morning 'til night
she was always complaining about something. The only time he got any relief was
when he was out plowing with his old mule.
He plowed a lot.
One day, when he was out plowing, his wife brought him lunch in the field. He drove the
old mule into the shade, sat down on a stump, and began to eat his lunch. Immediately,
his wife began nagging him again.
Complain, nag, complain, nag - it just went on and on. All of a sudden, the old mule lashed
out with both hind feet, caught her smack in the back of the head.
Killed her dead on the spot.
At the funeral several days later, the minister noticed something rather odd. When a
woman mourner would approach the old farmer, he would listen for a minute, then nod his
head in agreement; but when a man mourner approached him, he would listen for a
minute, then shake his head in disagreement.
This was so consistent, the minister decided to ask the old farmer about it. So after the
funeral, the minister spoke to the old farmer, and asked him why he nodded his head and
agreed with the women, but always shook his head and disagreed with all the men.
The old farmer said, 'Well, the women would come up and say something about how nice
my wife looked, or how pretty her dress was, so I'd nod my head in agreement.'
'And what about the men?' the minister asked.
'They wanted to know if the mule was for sale.'
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FINANCIAL FOCUS
Avoid Problems by Updating Beneficiary Designations
Like many people, you might not particularly enjoy thinking about your estate plans, but such planning is necessary to make sure your assets go where you want them to go. And it’s just as important to regularly review your plans with your tax, legal and financial professionals in case any changes are needed. For instance, some of your wishes expressed in your will may be overridden by beneficiary designations you filled out years ago. If these designations become outdated, your assets could be passed to those you didn’t intend. You might be surprised at how many of your financial assets and legal documents have beneficiary designations tied to them. If you have an IRA, a 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan, a life insurance policy, an annuity, a transfer-on-death (TOD) arrangement, or any of a variety of other assets or accounts, you almost certainly named a beneficiary. And this beneficiary designation offers a simple, direct and efficient way to get assets in the hands of your loved ones who survive you. However, as time goes by, you may experience many changes in your life — and when your life changes, your beneficiary designations may need to follow. But if you are like many people, you might forget to update these designations after a marriage, divorce or other change in your family situation. And because the beneficiary designation is a legally binding document, the asset will go to the person you once named as a beneficiary, regardless of your current relationship status. It really doesn’t take much effort to look over your accounts and legal arrangements to ensure that your beneficiary designations are current — and if they aren’t, it’s pretty easy to change them. In fact, for some financial accounts, you may be able to update the beneficiary designations online. In any case, plan on reviewing your beneficiary designations regularly, but especially when you experience a change in your life. Here’s one more thing to keep in mind: Make sure your current beneficiaries are informed that they will eventually be receiving your 401(k), IRA, life insurance proceeds or other assets that require a beneficiary designation. This advance knowledge may help your loved ones as they plan and maintain their own financial and investment strategies. Although it’s clearly important for you to update your beneficiary designations and to communicate your actions, you will still need to attend to other areas of your estate planning, such as providing care for minor children or dependents, deciding who you want to receive specific items that do not carry a beneficiary designation, naming someone to manage your affairs should you become incapacitated, and specifying the control you wish your beneficiaries to have over their inheritance. These are just a few examples of estate-planning considerations. Because everyone’s situation is different, you will need to consult with your legal advisor to determine the level of estate planning you require. As we’ve seen, updating your beneficiary is one piece of the puzzle — but to leave the legacy you desire, you’ve got to complete the picture.
Kevin C. Dunbaugh, Financial Advisor, Edward Jones 719-599-0970
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NOTICE
* DROP Retirement Accounts
Should you have all of your eggs in one basket?
What will you do when there is another big drop in the market?
How much money should you have at risk?
How much of your retirement money would you like to have safe?
Do you want to sleep well at night?
For a Complimentary, one-on-one retirement analysis, call:
Laurent Carrier, Carrier Financial Services
919 North Weber Street, Colorado Springs 576-6200
42 Years in Colorado Springs, A+ rated by Better Business Bureau
"My husband and I were very impressed with Laurent's professionalism. We trust his investment advice and feel our retirement planning is on the right path". -Anita M Smith
COPS TO THE RESCUE! Many members have a second business providing services to our community. We want to develop a list for those who are interested in hiring their peers by including cops and their specific business skills!
*Brett Poole drywall/ construction 491-7356 *Chris Garcia power raking/aeration 320-5003 *Brian Grady tile/ bathrooms/basements 238-8712 *Ron Hess Farmers Insurance Agent 641-6104 *Lance Lazoff marble/granite countertops 499-2586 *Stan Padalski painting 598-1543 *Rob McPike decks 237-6074 *Jim Waters hardwood flooring/ tile 235-1875 *Bob McCafferty hardwood flooring/ tile 330-8204 *Scott Wisler real estate services 210-4775 *Judd Tyson retirement planning services 287-0168 *Lee Doll Sprinkler Sys. Install/Repair/Winterization 535-9238 *Noel Peterson NRA Instructor 287-8349 *Vern and Stacy Thomson Mountain Moppets Children’s clothing 633-5544 *Tony Erickson Grass Fed Beef 1-520-271-3121 *John Ireland Announce by Stork 761-8230 *Jimmy Paladino Awareness Life Worldwide Health 238-0077 *Darrell Dye Concealed Carry, Tactical, Safety Classes 337-8204
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March 13 Thank you so much for the get well flowers, stuffed horse and monkey blanket. It was a slow recovery, but Carter is finally feeling better. Love, The Ray Family Michael, Sally, Caroline and Carter ******************** March 25 Dear Rhonda and Robin, Thank you both for thinking of me on my birthday. This is an example of why Barry speaks highly of you both. Thank you for all that you do. Nancy Freeman ******************** March 25 To the Colorado Springs PPA, Our family would like to thank you for the beautiful flower arrangement you sent for Earnie’s celebration service. Your love and support are so much appreciated. With thanks, Karen Hengst and the family of Earnest Hengst ******************** March 27 PPA, Thank you for the beautiful floral arrangement. Ken and Sal Fiorillo and Cindy Espinoza ******************** April 4 PPA Board and Members, Thank you very much for sending the floral arrangement to my father’s funeral service. We miss him deeply but are so appreciative for all of the support we have received. Thank you again, Jeff Jensen and family ********************
“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.
The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”
― Nelson Mandela
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Colorado Springs Police Protective Association
559 E. Pikes Peak Suite 102
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
2014 CSPPA BOARD AND STAFF *President: Barry Freeman *Secretary: Roberto Williamson *At-Large: Jill Wohlbach *Vice Pres: Mike Singels *At-Large: Jon Gustafson *Civilian: James Keller
*Sgt at Arms: *Sgt-at-Arms: Jim Carson *At-Large: Lance Lazoff *Exec. Director: Robin Rogers
*Treasurer: Tim Ives *At-Large: John (Mike) Ray *Off. Manager: Rhonda Keller