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As I enter into retirement, after 34 years of service with the Winona Police Department and 22 ½ years as the Winona Police Chief, it is time to reflect and thank all of the citizens of Winona and all of the professional men and women who are the Winona Police Department. Rarely does one have an opportunity to meet and partner with so many committed citizens, who truly believe that Winona is a great community. I have had the incredible experience of working with and for so many great law enforcement professionals. The men and women officers who trained me in as a new recruit and worked with me on the streets of Winona. Former Chief John Scherer gave me a unique opportunity, as his administrative sergeant, to work closely with him in the five years he served as police chief. He gave me the skills I needed as I stepped into the chief position.
In my early years I was blessed with many St. Mary’s College professors, who taught me over the five years I spent at St. Mary’s. On many occasions they invited me into their homes to study when shift work interrupted my class schedule. Thank you Matt Vetter, Mike Sommerville, Jeff Highland, Gary Jurek, Stan Pollock and Walt Ayotte for your guidance and insight into the world I was entering as a police officer and police administrator.
Thank you to all of the incredible city of Winona department heads, employees, City Council persons, mayors and city managers that I have worked with over the years. You have all been such an inspiration to me with your dedication to the city of Winona. I will remember you always for your caring and support.
Thank you to all of the people I have worked closely with on many projects throughout the years. There are certainly too many to name but you know who you are. Our efforts helped to keep Winona a safe place for the citizens of this great city.
The professional Law Enforcement officers, secretaries, animal control officer and parking control officer are committed professionals. I have been blessed to have been allowed to serve as their chief for 22 ½ years. I respect each of them for their dedication to the Winona citizens. They strive each day to make this a better and safer community.
Thank you to all who attended my retirement party for your cards, gifts and kind words.
On Tuesday March 31, 2009, a new chief will be sworn in. Deputy Chief Paul Bostrack is a good man. He is dedicated and committed to working with citizens of Winona to keep Winona safe. I leave because I am confident in my successor. Thank You.
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