April 14, 2010 > Honoring behind-the-scenes heroes Honoring behind-the-scenes heroes Submitted By Kassondra Moreland Alameda County's public safety dispatch centers are holding a banquet to honor their selected Dispatcher of the Year "DOTY" for National Telecommunicator's Week. Union City has organized a similar event at Crowne Plaza Hotel on Saturday, April 17. There will be music and dancing, amazing food, a charity basket auction and raffle, as well as other entertainment. The dispatchers on the committee have been working hard for the last year to make this a memorable event. The Public is welcome to attend this banquet and thank the local behind-the-scenes heroes in police, fire and medical dispatching. This is a great opportunity to meet the people who work so hard answering the 911 lines to ensure that emergencies are responded to efficiently and appropriately. Dispatcher's have a unique role in emergency services often taking the brunt of a panicked caller's frustration, responding with grace and professionalism and rarely getting the closure of first responders. This event is your opportunity to be there to say thanks for all their efforts to keep our communities safe. This year's theme is "The Academy Awards;" there will be everything from a red carpet to paparazzi to swag bags to the presentation of Best Actor/Actress in a leading role. Funds collected from our Chief's auction are donated to support the Susan G. Komen Foundation. This organization provides assistance and research for breast cancer patients. Our basket auction proceeds will go to Alameda County Foster Youth Alliance, which assist in the transition for young adults from foster care to independent living. Donations will help us to contribute as much as possible to their wonderful organization. To purchase tickets contact Kassondra Moreland Vice-President, Public Safety Dispatcher Recognition Committee (PSDRC) at (510) 675-5210 or write to kassondram@unioncity.org or Union City Police Department, 34009 Alvarado Niles Rd., Union City. For more information visit www.communityin.org and click "Support a Project." Alameda County Public Safety Dispatchers Annual Appreciation Banquet Saturday, April 17 6 p.m. Crowne Plaza Hotel 32083 Alvarado Niles Road, Union City (510) 675-5210 www.communityin.org Tickets: $75