911 Board Executive Director Angie Chapman and Webster Homeland Security Executive Director Brian Williams are going all out this week to show appreciation for their emergency dispatchers during Telecommunication Week.

“We are celebrating with a week-long Mexican Fiesta,” Chapman said, pointing out hats worn by herself and crew, as well as describing food prepared by all of them with a Mexican theme.

As the first call you should make in case of emergency, E-911 (Enhanced 911) began services in the mid 1990s in the basement of the Webster Parish Courthouse. For a time it was moved to a different location on Homer Road. Several years ago, it returned to the courthouse basement where Chapman has four dispatchers – two on each shift and fills in herself when needed.

“We have someone here at all times,” she said. “Two are on 24/7.”

Williams supplied a cake Monday, while Minden Mayor Nick Cox proclaimed the week in appreciation. Dispatchers Jamie Murray (left) and Yvonne Gwin are shown with Cox.