National Safety Month: Safety Leader Contest 2007

What is a "Safety Leader"? 

Safety leaders are individuals who show their committment to safety in the workplace at all times.  Safety leaders are resources for other employees by demonstrating the safe way to perform tasks and avoiding dangerous shortcuts.  These employees don personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety goggles, hardhats and special suits because it's necessary and sets an example for others.  These individuals are so valuable to the City of Newport News, we started a new contest in 2007 to recognize them for their efforts.  The Safety Leader contest encourages employees to nominate the coworkers and/or supervisors they felt meet the standards.  Employees from many departments nominated each other for offering a helping hand, keeping others safe and encouraging safe behavior at all times.

Safety Leader Award Winner: Eric Warren, Public Works Wastewater Division Maintenance Specialist

Eric Warren, the city's Safety Leader for 2007, was recognized with the award for his committment to safety in the workplace.  Warren took home a plaque and the grand prize, a $50.00 gift certificate to Home Depot!

First Runner-up: Eddie Harrah, Waterworks Natural Resources Division Branch Chief

Eddie Harrah was recognized as the first runner-up for the 2007 Safety Leader Award. Waterworks' Senior Safety Officer Milt Cummings and Self Insurance Safety Officer Kristin Benson presented Mr. Harrah with the award.  He was also recognized with Waterworks' highest award for safety in 2007.
 

Second Runner-up: Priscilla Bele, Chief Deputy Commissioner

Priscilla's dedication to the safety of all employees in the Commissioner of the Revenue's office is constant.  Her concern for safety in their day-to-day operations has led to a department-wide interest in staying safe in the workplace.

Third Runner-up: William Keliipaakaua, Public Works Solid Waste Division Operations Superintendent

Known to most as "Bill K.", Mr. Keliipaakaua has a strong influence on safety in Public Works' Solid Waste Division.  His committment to safety for all of his employees is evident on a daily basis.  Bill K. was also recognized with a safety award specific to the Public Works department in 2007.
 

Fourth Runner-up: Milton Cummings, Waterworks Senior Safety Officer 

Senior Safety Officer Milt Cummings stands with Waterworks' Assistant Director Eileen Leininger and Director Brian Ramaley at his award presentation.  Milt's committment to the safety of Waterworks' employees has been evident throughout his nearly 20-year career with the city.

Donna Harbert, Office Assistant II for Parks, Recreation and Tourism

Parks & Recreation employee Donna Harbert was recognized as a runner-up for the Safety Leader Award for her dutiful "safety first" attitude.  Her coworkers were grateful to be able to honor her for all that she does.
 

David Cianelli, Adult Corrections Equipment Operator 

  City Farm Maintenance Shop Supervisor Mike Dethlefs' committment to safety prompted him to nominate coworker David Cianelli for his efforts.  These gentlemen help ensure the safety of equipment at the City Farm maintenance shop.
 

Wallace King, Human Resources Worker's Compensation Analyst

Mr. King enjoys a good laugh with Director Caroline Hurt at his award presentation.  Wallace was surprised to receive recognition for his efforts that help keep HR employees safe, but we weren't! 

Capt. Robert O. Craft, Fire Department Safety Officer

Known as "ROC" to those he works with, Capt. Craft is dedicated to the safety of Fire Department employees.  His efforts ensure firefighters are safe and well-prepared to serve in emergency situations.

Diane Bonney, Fire Department Administration

Diane mans the front desk of the administrative offices of the Fire Department and her officemates consider her an asset because of her "safety first" attitude.

Reginald Grant, Public Works Wastewater Division

Wastewater Division Administrator Steve Land and Mr. Reginald Grant smile for the camera as he receives his award.  Mr. Grant's coworkers appreciate his attention to safety in the workplace.

Sheriff Gabriel Morgan

No one needs to tell Sheriff Gabriel Morgan how integral safety is during day-to-day operations.  Coworkers of Sheriff Morgan were excited to see him receive recognition for his continual efforts to keep them safe in the workplace.

ALSO RECOGNIZED AS RUNNERS-UP:

Seawau Douglas, Purchasing Department Graphic Services

Angelia Edwards, Parks, Recreation and Tourism Mature Adult Programs

Michael Griffin, Engineering Department Architectural & Asbestos Inspector

Carolyn McClees, Parks, Recreation and Tourism Mature Adult Programs