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| cover photo by | Steven Hertzog |
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ON THE COVER
L to R: Lieutenant Myrone Grady, Deputy Dir. of DCEM – Jillian Rodrique, Police Chief Rich Lockhart, Fire Chief Richard Llewellyn, Sheriff Jay Armbrister, Undersheriff Stacy Simmons, Officer Lindsay Bishop, McKenzi Ezell – Fire Medical Data Analyst; Photo by Steven Hertzog
PUBLIC SAFETY AND SECURITY
In 2015, we did an Impact issue on Public Safety; nine years later, it is a different world with a new perspective. We decided it was time to revisit the subject, see what has changed and evolved, and how we look at Public Safety and Security in 2024.
One thing we do know, public safety is a multi-faceted endeavor that involves the collaborative efforts of various departments and agencies dedicated to serving and protecting the community. Among the key entities responsible for ensuring public safety in the community are the Police Departments, Fire Departments, Sheriff’s Office, and the Douglas County Emergency Management Agency. Each of these organizations plays a vital role in safeguarding the well-being of Douglas County residents and visitors, responding to emergencies, and maintaining the city’s overall security.
LOCAL MATTERS
Our Local Advertisers – Making a Positive Impact
Public safety ensures the physical well-being of the residents. It encompasses the efforts of law enforcement agencies, firefighters, emergency medical services, and various community organizations dedicated to preserving life and property. Public safety is also pivotal in promoting social cohesion and community resilience. We take pride in our community’s reputation as a safe and welcoming place – diverse and inclusive. Strong community partnerships between law enforcement agencies, neighborhood associations, schools, and local businesses foster trust, collaboration, and mutual support. Through initiatives such as community policing, crime prevention programs, and neighborhood watch groups, our residents actively contribute to maintaining public safety and creating a shared sense of responsibility for the well-being of our communities.
We see public safety as paramount to our diverse and inclusive community’s vitality, prosperity, and well-being. As in every issue, we learn a bit about the community, and this issue was no exception. We are proud of the dedication and commitment to protecting the citizens and making sure everyone is and feels safe, a priority for the leadership of all of the organizations that work together to maintain our security.
Please note that all of our advertisers have a stake in the local economy; we ask you to first consider them before looking to source your needs outside of the community. Try and shop locally as much as possible and avoid the urge to order online. If you find something online – see if one of our local businesses has it. We know they would appreciate the business – our local businesses are at the center of our community.
When we Shop Local – Shop Baldwin, Eudora, Lecompton, and Lawrence (and use Local Services) -we are supporting those businesses, giving back to our community, and building a future together.
Sincerely,
- Ann Frame Hertzog, Editor-in-Chief/Publisher
- Steven Hertzog, Chief Photographer/Publisher
