Nappanee Advance-News, Volume 120, Number 41, Nappanee, Elkhart County, 8 October 1997 — Page 3

NPD veteran represents law enforcement friend

By Merrie Chapman Dana Hollar represents a friendly face and helping hand to Nappanee residents. Clothed in a blue uniform he symbolizes more than a 13-year veteran of the local police department; he is further recognized throughout the community as a neighbor and friend. His caring nature and smiling face have made the corporal a well loved addition to the local police force. His work within the Wa-Nee School System hosting everything from safety talks to bike-a-thons has made him a hit with youngsters. Those who have grown up with Dana’s programs have great respect for his guidance as they enter their teen years full of driving and personal choices. A simple nod of recognition or certain look of concern seem to be enough to brighten the smile of a preteen or slow down a newly licensed driver. Hollar’s “fair but firm” law enforcement with all generations continues to make him popular throughout all generations of people. His work with the youth of the community extends to his personal life as well. Dana and wife, Dawn, have raised three children in their hometown: Brad, 11, Brent, nine, and Bethany, seven. Hollar coaches both wrestling and Little League, and helps out with the preteen youth group at Nappanee Missionary Church. Through his many local connections residents have come to know and love the NPD officer. For that reason no one seems surprised that he serves as the Public Relations Speaker for the department. Under that title he does all the public service announcements and speaking engagements. ' Hollar is also the departments composite sketch artist. Nappanee was the first police agency in the area to purchase the computerized identification equipment. According to Dana it paid for itself almost immediately when he used the kit to catch a check cashing Scam artist who was wanted hationwide. Not long after that pollar Hollar used the equipment Jo make sketches of a suspect JiVfcjjygJkfbr bank robbery .in the frflentone* area. “His sketch led to Jhe arrest of that perpetrator as Well. ; The corporal was responsible For organizing the Civilian Rider and House Check programs. The first requires officers to to keep a careful eye on empty houses while residents are on vacation. The second allows civilians to ride in a

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HOST-SEMINAR—The Nappanee Police Department hosted a one day seminar, September 29, in the Emergency Medical Services meeting room. Co-sponsor of the event was Wicklander-Zulawski & Associates, Inc.; the topic was field interviewing. The object was to increase a line officer's effectiveness in gathering information, generating Ifeads and getting confessions while recog-

Public Library offers new book selections

The following new books have been added to the shelves at the Nappanee Public Library, and are now available for your reading pleasure. ADULT FICTION ! Deception On His Mind, by George—when a London police detective investigates the death of a member of a seaside town’s Asian community, she must probe hot only the mind of a murdered, but also the terrible price people pay for deceiving others. • Murder in the House, by jTruman—when the nominee for secretary of state is found shot tb fleath, an apparent suicide, a jawyer who is a close friend does pot believe the suicide verdict, and pecides to investigate, unearthing the shocking truth, as his own life is threatened. Enemy of God, by Cornwell—

police vehicle with an on-duty officer for a two-hour period. This unique opportunity gives residents a better understanding of the men in blue and their basic responsibilities. Dana’s civic duties extend past his time on the clock. Representing his department he organizes and runs the auction each ysar for the Butch Nine Memorial Golf Tournament. “I really enjoy,” says Hollar. He adds, “I get to meet celebrities and professional athletes and that part is pretty nice also.” While the veteran NPD officer loves his job he admits “I didn’t set out to become a police officer.” A statement that may shock many who know him. Hollar explains that he came onto the force during a period of many changes within the department.

Building a better community...

“I was just in the right place at the right time I guess...and I thought why not give it a try?” says Dana. That was in 1982 when he began as a reserve officer. Hollar found to his chagrin that he loved the job and had realized his calling. He made the transition into full time duty in 1984. Since that time he has advanced through the ranks to become corporal and dedicated his time and talents to many different programs within the department. The NPD veteran has witnessed many changes within the department. The biggest advancement has been in technology. Hollar has watched the NPD outgrow it’s former quarters at city hall and expand to a separate facility stocked full of sophisticated computer equipment. These days the police dispatcher operates an enhanced 911 system that goes far beyond a simple distress call to locate the caller, record the conversation, and send immediate response. With the new computer technology officers also have contact with police departments all over the country and send and receive pertinent information and news bulletins each day. The computers are also effective in severe weather monitoring. Looking at manpower the NPD has grown from seven officers when Hollar first began to 13 full

nizing the potential dangers each policeman faces. The program uses the officers' existing skills and experience in combination with the teachings to encourage change and better train participants. County, state and city police from LaPorte and Rensselaer were among those who attended the oneday seminar. (AN photo by Merrie Chapman)

Arthur has secured King Mordred’s throne, but the kingdom is threatened by the conflict between the ancient religions and Christianity and by England’s war against the Saxons, as the legend of King Arthur continues. Lord of the Isis, by Drake —four people with some magical powers set out on a heroic journey that will transform them and their world, in this fantasy adventure. The Cat Who Could Read Backwards, by Braun —a reporter’s “fluff’ assignment on the art beat leads down the path to murder, in this reissue of the first book in the “Cat Who” series. Seeing a Large Cat, by Peters — headed for an archaeological dig in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, Amelia Peabody encounters a macabre puzzle of murder, passion, and cruel deceit, in this tale

time officers today. In addition there are also nine reserve officers, five dispatchers and a detective. While the increase in officers has been necessary, Dana shares that double coverage is also a necessity. ' “After Butch Nine, John (Elliott) said no one will ever work alone again” says Hollar. Following the tragic death of the local police officer, Police Chief John Elliott mandated that officers ride two to a car and have backup on calls. According to Dana another very important change has taken place. “I’ve seen it (the department) become more community oriented” he says. One example of that outreach is the recent development of the Neighborhood Watch Program. The group is a cooperative effort between citizens and local law enforcement to try and fight crime with knowledge and awareness. The NWP was started over a year ago and currently boasts nearly 175 members, with 25-35 regularly attending the monthly meetings. The group covers vital topics such as crime prevention, personal safety, gangs and how to protect your valuables. NWP will host the Elkhart County Drug Task Force, October 30, in the emergency medical services building. This event is open to all in the community and scheduled to coincide with the annual Drug Awareness Week, October 26-31. Members joined Early Bird Kiwanis and the NPD at the former United Telephone Building during the annual Apple Festival. Volunteers passed out free informational booklets on public safety, security and awareness were passed out to the public. Inside the groups presented information booklets to parents to be completed with snapshots and fingerprints of each child. The Child ID Program which is offered three times a year. The Neighborhood Watch program is not city funded and thereThe Neighborhood Watch program is not city funded and therefore runs on a very tight budget. All donations both individual and corporate are welcome and needed to continue making the program a success. Currently Dana and NWP Director Laurie Sumpter are working to gain a not-for-profit status that would allow donations to be tax exempt. Until that time personal satisfaction at helping a worthwhile cause will have to inspire gift givers. Hollar stresses “what a

of romantic suspense. Coyote Summer, by Gear—a white man searches for an Indian woman who has returned to her remote mountain people to warn them about the coming white onslaught, in this novel of love, reconciliation and the unquenchable human spirit. A Matter of Honor* by Izzi —a spiraling series of seemingly random events is about to have a devastating effect on the lives of Chicago’s citizens, as a diverse group of urban heroes refuses to. allow their city to die. The Lucky Ones, by Mortman —as the presidential election heats up, the stage is set for power plays and political intrigue, as four women bound by friendship, secrets, and an invinci-. ble will to succeed, are competing in the male-dominated arena.

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TEACHING BUS SAFETY-Police Corporal Dana Hollar recently traveled to Nappanee Elementary School to teach kindergarten students about bus safety. Following a short video Hollar and Scott Shafer, Wa-Nee's director of transportation, took the students outside to visit bus driver Rod Burkholder and bus #2l. Students learned many important tips from the safety program. Step one was to take three big steps away from the curb or bus door when exiting the vehicle. Step

good program this is,” and urges anyone interested in the NWP to contact its director for details on events, donations or to join the group. Another event that Hollar supports is the upcoming addition of the Boys’ and Girls’ Club. He fearsi that some of the older children in! the community may not show much interest at first but says the club will still attract the younger students. He looks forward to seeing youngsters grow up in the program and sees the time spent with the Boys’ and Girls’ Club as a positive influence. “I think it will prove to be a definite detour to criminal activity,” says Dana. He adds that it will serve as “crime prevention” on a younger level. While there are many outlets currently available to kids through the schools, churches, park system and upcoming Boys’ and Girls’ Club, there is still one ingredient missing for many kids. The corporal says it comes down to, “parents need to be more involved in their kids’ activities.” He recognizes how busy adults are but says the time and effort spent with*MUr youth is essential. To that end Hollar strives to spend time with his own children daily and plan special outings. One major event is the annual family vacation to Florida. This is their

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Nappanee Advance New* Wednesday, October 8,1997

two asked students to walk five giant steps from the front of the bus before trying to cross the street so they will be in clear view of the driver. The video also reminded children to ‘stop and look left, right and left again' before crossing the road. The bus safety program is just one of the many safety talks given to Wa-Nee students through the Nappanee Police Department. (AN photo by Merrie Chapman)

chance to break completely free of everyday commitments and just catch up and enjoy one another. Then it’s back home to jump back into daily routines. When Hollar isn’t on duty or wrapped up in his children’s activities he enjoys computers, spending time on the Internet and playing the guitar. He is currently teaching Brent to play. His commitment to the community and love for its people seem endless. Because of that love he strives hard to help the NPD maintain its personal touch and respectability in the eyes of citizens. “One thing that hasn’t changed,” says Dana, “is that we are a decent, honest, caring depart-ment-^tet He adds*?we are as good or better than any area department—second to none I would say in law

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fighting capabilities.” Thank you Dana for being a part of that impeccable reputation and for showing the big heart that lies beneath the blue cloth of your uniform. Our hats are off to you and your fellow officers. (Note: This is the third in a series of articles spotlighting members of' our community who contribute their time and talents for the betterment of Nappanee.)

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