I am nominating my daughter Charlene as hero of the year. She has been an officer for 22 years. I was a police officer for thirty years and have been retired for twelve years. I was very proud when she was hired in Hamilton, but questioned her choice of a large city - regardless, she has risen to the challenges. She has received a well earned promotion to sergeant, and she was a team leader for criminal investigations on her shift for two years. I'm certain that she has been involved with the worst of the worst. 

Tara lived across the road from me when she was young. She spent lots of time over at our house growing up and we found her to be a loving, caring, funny and very helpful young lady. I have been in touch with Tara as she grew up and have watched her turn into a very beautiful woman both inside and out. Her dedication to her job is unbelievable. She puts everything into it to do the best she can. My husband and I both believe that Tara is very deserving of this award.

I would like to nominate Evan Harrison for this award. He was the one to develop the relationship between the London Police Service and Children's Health Foundation. This partnership has meant the world to children accessing care at Children's Hospital in London. Evan, along with our Dr. Beary Goode mascot frequently visits children in hospital. 

We would like to nominate Susan Wolak as a Police Hero. Sue works with Halton Regional Police Service at the front desk as a civilian employee where she has been for 30 years. Before her son was born, she was a patrol officer. She has always had the tenacity and confidence to step up and be an advocate for others while at work and outside of work. Part of the altruistic nature Sue embodies is one that allows her to help and offer needed services throughout each and every work day.

On September 12, 2019, a 22 year old male began stabbing pedestrians at a downtown Kingston intersection. Constable Fil Wisniak - a 10 year veteran of the Kingston Police - was on foot when the call came in. Constable Wisniak responded to the call, running 2 blocks to the incident. Upon his arrival, one man had been fatally stabbed and another man was being attacked. Constable Wisniak intervened without hesitation - the male was about to attack a woman who was attempting to provide aid to one of the victims. 

I am nominating Cst. Arbic as he is an amazing officer and he goes above and beyond the call of duty. The one way I can show this is when I was going for my G1 license... I needed a letter from a guarantor and, since I have known Andrew since like grade 4, he was one person I contacted. He said yes and, because of him, I was able to get my license. He is always good when working with youth encouraging them to do better in life.

I would like to nominate Cst. Jeff Lalonde for Police Hero - Community Role Model. Not only does Jeff work as an officer for Cornwall Police Service for over 20 years, but he has shown time and time again that he is truly a part of our community. Jeff has volunteered for various agencies in Cornwall since his early teenage years. This is a tradition that he has carried on during his 20 years as an officer. Jeff not only volunteered but has also lead teams of volunteers for various community fundraisers.

I’d like to nominate Sergeant Tara Vivian for the On-Duty Difference Maker award. Sgt. Vivian is an enthusiastic and caring leader. Whether she is engaging the public at community events, or backing her officers on patrol, she consistently shows respect and empathy to everyone she meets. Sgt. Vivian takes a proactive approach to policing, and has shown tremendous adaptability through various roles within HRPS to provide her with a wider perspective and capacity to engage members of the community in a positive way. She is the definition of a team player, and while her dedication and knowledge to all things policing makes her a role model to many, her kindness and warm spirit also makes her a valued friend.

Constable Evan Harrison, you are an exceptional human leader towards us adults and all our kids. In between keeping the streets safe and volunteering at hospitals, coaching sports and schools you are also a great family man. You care about others like they are your family. My kids look up to you and are proud of what you so everyday. Thank you for the hard work everyday!

When reflecting on the notion of police hero, what comes to mind is more than just the officer who “saves the day” and “catches the bad guy.” To serve, protect and create a safer Cornwall is an obvious priority for Detective Constable Darrell Blakely. A victim-centred approach is at the core of his police work, and is evidenced by the high level of respect and professionalism he displays for children, youth, and families in our community, even during the most difficult of cases.