Cochrane Street Piano

Well, it’s back to the business of blogging now that I’ve taken a summer break and enjoyed some terrific weather here in Red Deer, Alberta. There were plenty of interesting things to see and do and I even spent a little time in Santa Monica, California recently. Special thanks to Crime Prevention coordinators Lauralee and Suzie of the Santa Monica Police Department for allowing me to meet some of their Watch personnel and setting up a ride-along for me with patrol officer Blake Cooper. It’s a very progressive police service with dedicated, well-trained officers that work closely with their community to serve and protect. You will soon be able to follow the Santa Monica PD on Twitter.

It was great to see another successful summer launch of the Ross Street Piano here in Red Deer and a 2nd street piano provided for the residents of Cochrane, Alberta. Their initiative was the result of two Mount Royal University students studying criminology, with a little help from their professor. Randi Boulton, a young rising star who has always supported our local project in Red Deer was happy to provide the entertainment for their event on August 7th. Many passersby enjoyed the music and it will be something their community can now enjoy annually. Who says that you need to reinvent the wheel to produce great results. Through all of this I’ve somehow ended up with a new nickname and you can read about that in this summers edition of Red Deer Living Magazine.

There are some great crime prevention conferences just ahead. In Calgary this coming Wednesday, the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association will be holding their event with a great lineup of speakers and you can still register. You can also attend The Anti Graffiti Symposium (TAGS) in Edmonton this October 18 & 19 and learn more about this important community issue. I will be attending both events with various colleagues and encourage you to join us.

Last but not least, we encourage you to join us on Twitter, subscribe by email or through our RSS feed and get connected with us. This is easy and can be done quickly by clicking on the links at the top of our blog. We do our best to share current and relevant information and always appreciate your contributions and feedback. This fall and winter we will be offering some great blog features on fencing, lighting, security, community-based policing initiatives and much more. Help us create safe communities everywhere and target crime in your neighbourhood.

When we set out to develop a new strategic plan for the Waterloo Region Crime Prevention Council (WRCPC) in 2010, we didn’t set out, intentionally, to create “the smart plan”….. It just evolved that way.

As we started to create our new plan, we had four elements to work with:

• A ton of information from an intensive community consultation process;
• The desire to create a plan that would engage our entire community from the grassroots to the highest levels of decision making ;
• The need to move beyond the tough vs. soft on crime debate;

And,

• This quote

Recognize complexity. Accept uncertainty. Embrace possibility. Trust community. Proceed with humanity.  (©Eric Young, 2010 “Innovators in Action” Speaker Series)

Smart on Crime emerged as a plan that is rooted in the experience of the Waterloo Region community. But we also paid attention to what we know about successful municipally-based crime prevention in Canada and elsewhere. Smart is…

• Addressing the roots and risk factors for crime
• Using evidence based research to understand what works
• Investing in prevention, which costs less in the long and short term
• Building capacity in both communities and individuals
• Working in partnership across all sectors
• Focusing on actions that create social change

We also asked our community to tell us what smart on crime means to them.

It can be a challenging thing for an organization to throw itself open to full public scrutiny the way we did during the development of Smart on Crime. But we received such valuable information during the process that we couldn’t imagine creating this plan in any other way. It was during one focus group session that a group of people told us “We love what you do and we want more of it. But we don’t want you to work harder and longer hours… just work smarter”.  That’s when the light bulb went on. The message of “Smart on Crime” began to develop in this organic way and its simplicity made sense to people.

Trailblazing a Smart Approach

Quite simply, preventing crime before it happens is the smart thing to do. It’s not about being tough on crime; it’s not about being soft on crime. It’s about being smart on crime. Smart on Crime in Waterloo Region focuses on what works best to prevent and reduce crime, victimization and fear of crime. Each and every person, community leader, organization and service in our community has a role to play in crime prevention. By this inclusive effort of all community members, we are well-placed to sustain the progress that makes us one of the safest communities in Canada.

Smart on Crime in Waterloo Region encourages a path of innovation and allows us to respond creatively to opportunities, emerging trends and community needs. Most of all, it challenges us to focus on putting together our collective knowledge, wisdom and experience about the root causes of crime and how to reduce and prevent them.

Now that is smart.

Author:
Juanita Metzger is a Community Engagement Coordinator with the Waterloo Region Crime Prevention Council and blogs for Smart on Crime in Waterloo Region.  You can also find the Crime Prevention Council on Twitter and Facebook.

Lorne Daniel leading Jane's Walk group in Downtown Red Deer

There was no shortage of events focusing on the importance of Crime Prevention and Safe Communities this month. Its been great and very exciting to be an active participant. Alberta Crime Prevention week was held from May 8 – 14 and I was honoured to serve on the selection committee, helping identify this years recipients for the 20th Annual Crime Prevention Awards. There was 9 awards received by various community organizations, police members, community groups collaborating with police, the media and two individuals. You will be able to get all the details soon by visiting the Alberta Solicitor General & Public Security online where you will find photos and bios on all the award winners this year. Kudos to our government and to the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association for a job well done!

Crime prevention and community safety were also front and center locally, right here in the beautiful city of Red Deer, Alberta. There were several events and some very informative newspaper features in both the Red Deer Advocate and Red Deer Express for Crime Prevention Week. Subjects ranged from modern crime prevention looking to the root of the problem to our local RCMP Community Response Unit contributing to crime prevention in Red Deer’s downtown. However, the highlight for me was organizing a special event with my friend Lorne Daniel, for our cities first Jane’s Walk.

On Saturday, May 7th, Lorne and I lead two separate walks for the event, one in the morning and another mid-afternoon stroll. Both were fairly well attended, especially considering it was our first year organizing the walks. We had a good cross-section of people joining us, including Mayor Morris Flewwelling, City Councillor Paul Harris, several planners, citizens and even a project manager from Williams Engineering. The two themes we chose can be found at Jane’s Walk, along with a host of information on Jane Jacobs and the legacy she has left for all of us.

It’s amazing how many people actually got out and walked this year. At Jane’s Walk HQ, they recently reported that there has been significant growth! Here are some of the numbers as of May 25th: 511 tours around the world in 75 cities (36 cities in Canada) – yeah Red Deer, Alberta. Almost 20,000 people around the world participated on a Jane’s Walk on May 7 & 8, almost a 40% increase from last year. It was an incredible experience with Lorne and I getting some great feedback from those that joined us that cold, windy day. Now, we just have to walk the walk, so to speak and get ready for 2012.

Local Red Deer artist Amy Braun preparing the Ross Street Piano

Red Deer Advocate staff photographer Natasha Schmale snaps a great photo in preparation of the summer arrival of the Ross Street Piano on the streets of downtown Red Deer, next Wednesday. The piano made its first appearance last July when my friends and family contributed to its purchase for my 50th birthday. Some restoration work by A&J Piano and Tuning was required and then I gifted the instrument back to our community.

Crime prevention you ask – you bet

Crime Prevention through Environmental Design practitioners understand the benefits of creating safe streets and the types of activity that encourage positive interaction in our public spaces. Local residents, people at-risk, musicians and other passers-by sat down last summer to play a tune or just listen to the music. It was certainly music for my ears.

If you live in this neck of the woods or looking for a great day trip, come join us in Red Deer.  Musicians Randi Boulton, Carl Stretton and Paeton Cameron will be joining many others and performing around the piano during the lunch hour, on June 1st. The Ross Street Piano will be located for your enjoyment in front of the Thai Garden Restaurant located at 4916 Ross Street from June 1st through August 2011.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO SHARE IN SOME GREAT MUSIC AND THE SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY

Nobody recognized this more than Jane Jacobs who wrote “Cities have the capability of providing something for everyone, only because, and only when, they are created for everybody.” The more we all connect with our built-environment, the more we can truly enjoy it. It’s not just about the people we share our public spaces with, its about how we build and design our cities, our communities.

This coming weekend, May 7th & 8th marks the annual Jane’s Walk which was originally launched in Toronto in 2007. The event was first organized by a group of Jane Jacob’s friends and colleagues who wanted to honour her ideas and legacy. We encourage you to learn more about Jane and share her passion with us this weekend.  Experience the sights and sounds right here in beautiful downtown Red Deer.  Join Lorne Daniel from Grandview Consulting and myself for two informative walks that will begin from our new Cenotaph Plaza located on Ross Street & 49 Avenue.

Lorne’s walk, titled “Windows, Doors & Blank Spaces” begins at 10 a.m. and my walk titled “Safe Streets” begins at 2 p.m.  Join us for both if you wish.

The two days provided those in attendance with information from speakers that have been successful in sharing their experiences. We talked about what works and how we can continue the momentum by mobilizing our communities further by embracing best practices and supporting each other in our efforts. For crime prevention practitioners like myself, it was also a big boost and a pat on the back for doing what we do in our communities. Jack Calhoun, former President and CEO, US National Crime Prevention Council – UNITY (Urban Networks to Increase Thriving Youth) put it best when he said “what you do is not a career, it’s a calling.” There is no doubt that many communities and various practitioners throughout our province are dedicated to ensuring that crime prevention and community safety remains an on-going priority and is sustainable. The Alberta Government created the Alberta Safe Communities initiative for all of us and we must continue to play a role. You can start by planning a special event for Crime Prevention Week in your community. It will be held next month from May 8th – 14th, for more information please visit the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association.

Reaching out to one another is a great way of ensuring success in every community, even our on-line community.  I think it’s important to remind everyone that this was the reason for creating this blog back in 2008.  So, in the true spirit of community I’m challenging all of our subscribers and visitors to ENGAGE with us throughout the year.  This blog is really about collaboration and sharing information and resources from around the world.  You can easily submit a Guest Feature by sending us an email with your idea or simply providing feedback on the features that appear monthly.

So, what’s new since leaving the starting line this year?  A number of discussions and meetings with other crime prevention colleagues specializing in Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) has helped create new alliances for 2011.  Last year there were discussions among some of us to start collaborating more and meeting as a group.  This spring a number of practitioners will meet in the City of Red Deer to conduct a walk-a-bout in various neighbourhoods to share valuable insight and expertise.  The idea is to do this every other month in different communities around Alberta.  So far, those agreeing to this are Greg Smith from Urban Security Innovation in Edmonton, Gerry Bailey, a CPTED Specialist for the Calgary Police Service and Barry Davidson, the Executive Director of the International CPTED Association.  Yes, there’s more …

The Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association (ACCPA) is another dynamic group that merits our attention.  ACCPA is in the midst of developing some new alliances as well, including one with Mount Royal University.  The association has some great plans for the upcoming year and a very strong board of directors.  Stay up to date on crime prevention news and events by bookmarking their website today.  As the custodians and stake-holders of our communities we should also be following the great work of our provincial government in relation to the new Alberta Gang Reduction Strategy.  This new site allows Albertans to educate themselves on a serious issue that threatens community safety and demands our attention.

Last but not least, I can’t say enough about various individuals, groups, businesses and corporations that are showing more Social Responsibility and stepping up to the plate.  One such organization is Williams Engineering (WE), a company I started working closely with last year.  WE serves as a great example of how businesses can be more involved in making a difference beyond the communities they generally serve.  In the March 2010 issue of the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce publication titled “We Mean Business”, Wayne Gustafson from Williams Engineering addresses the importance of Helping in Haiti.  In an excerpt from that article it indicates that “While the Haitian tragedy no longer dominates the headlines, it hasn’t diminished in the eyes of a Red Deer firm.  Wayne Gustafson said “Our goal is to help Haiti build companies that can continue building the country, he said, adding that visiting the devastated country was a life-changing experience.  It only seems fitting that I leave you with 3 great words that help drive their corporate culture  - Engage. Innovate. Inspire.

Wishing Everyone a Happy & Safe 2011,

Steve Woolrich

For those adrenalin junkies this may sound like fun but the risk factor is right up there with entering a battle zone in some far off jungle wearing nothing but a “speedo” and a bright red tank top.  Yes, those entering the danger zone must sign waivers acknowledging that they could be taking their last bus ride. As an added precaution, organizers use an “unmarked” chartered coach.  Wow, I bet that provides a lot of comfort to those on tour. Take cover, there is more …

There is no doubt that many people are intrigued by the subject of gangs. For some of us, including police officers, community workers and various crime prevention practitioners we must possess a certain amount of knowledge on the issue. However, I trust that none of us are putting ourselves in the direct line of fire intentionally. This seems like common sense 101.  South LA is known as a breeding ground for some of the cities deadliest gangs, according to a recent article by ABC News. I wonder how long these tours will last once someone has been killed or seriously injured. Maybe they will start providing body armour on the tour or using bullet-proof glass on the bus.

It certainly seems like risky business to me.  However, the founder, Alfred Lomas, a former member of the Florencia 13 gang has probably “tapped” into something here. I hope he has considered a profit sharing initiative with his former colleagues and has invested in some good body armour for himself. It does make one think about the level of risk we are all willing to take … what’s yours?  SEE LA Gang Tours here.

Arnel Pineda of Journey

This is an inspiring story indeed and one that should be shared, especially among those who could use a little good news now and then.  All too often, in communities throughout the world we hear about our homeless and those living in poverty.  Many stories are negative but as we give thanks today for all that we have, we should celebrate, for there are those that refuse to give up and serve as beacons of hope. Here is a success story that will inspire all of us and demonstrates the strength in those who “Don’t Stop Believing“.

Many communities, including Red Deer, Alberta have identified Homelessness as a priority.  City council recently endorsed “Everyone’s Home” – a 5 year community initiative towards ending homelessness from 2010 – 2015  Many people and various organizations have taken the lead in getting people off the street and into necessary shelter.  A social marketing campaign is also well underway in an effort to reduce discrimination and hopefully change the way we treat some of our most vulnerable community members.

In Red Deer, the 3rd edition of our Vital Signs Community Annual Check Up for 2009 was recently released.  It’s a snapshot of what our community deems some of it’s most important issues.  The Top 3 issues identified are (1) Crime/Law & Order, (2) Health Care and (3) Poverty/Homelessness/Hunger.  Also making headlines this past week was Canada capturing the No. 4 position on the United Nations “Quality of Life” index. The UN’s description for quality of life is – “notion of human welfare (well-being) measured by social indicators rather than by “quantitative” measures of income and production.”

Community Crime Prevention efforts makes all of this very relative as the Top 3 community issues in Red Deer are likely a concern among many communities around the world. It raises many important questions as citizens or as crime prevention practitioners.  How are you addressing these concerns as a resident of your community?  How are parents engaging their children to become part of a solution? Is your employer playing an active role or simply concerned with creating an impressive bottom-line for it’s shareholders?  For those of us focusing on crime prevention in our communities we need to take a closer look at how we can make an impact.  Can we improve the built environment (CPTED) by making places safer for our homeless and vulnerable populations? Can our public servants be more understanding and respectful of those less fortunate?  It’s important that we continue to ask ourselves these types of questions but critical that we make the necessary adjustments that will bring about changes in our behavior.  I encourage everyone this Thanksgiving to “believe” that they can be part of the solution and to demonstrate this in some small way each day – this is community spirit in action!

Alberta Venture magazine is a resource I often refer to and glean information for my business.  Their September issue provided a definitive report card on corporate Alberta. You know, the best of the best, the biggest deals, the largest employers and so on.  It’s always interesting as well as informative. However, last weeks breakfast talk by Brett Wilson provided me with a new perspective on corporate wealth in our country and throughout the world. The event was hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Red Deer, another bright light in our own community.

When you look at Alberta Venture’s ranking of the Top 100 companies for 2009 and the revenues these corporations have generated, it’s nothing short of staggering. Yet, with all this wealth we still face big community issues such as crime, homelessness, addiction and poverty.  The good news, as Brett pointed out, is that we all have choices and one of these is charitable giving.  He described this as an opportunity,

not an obligation. Corporate philanthropy, what a concept!  Even more incredible is his willingness to practice what he preaches and demonstrate how companies might share their wealth and support community initiatives, health, arts and political causes. The slogan for this event was “Rebel with a Cause” and it was certainly fitting for a man that continues to give so much.

Brett Wilson

Giving back, helping to change the world may sound rather difficult – but is it really?  We often measure what we can give in dollars and cents and we’re missing the point.  While many of the Top 100 corporations and other businesses can provide that financial muscle that is needed, every one of us has something to offer. Wilson pointed out that “we can all change the world through small acts of kindness.”  Another refreshing thought was that “giving while living” can be more rewarding than trying to guide from the grave, said Wilson.

Hopefully, the mentality that “Greed is Good” from the 1987 flick Wall Street no longer exists. However, I’d be rather foolish to truly believe that’s the case.  After all, we have certainly seen some corporate leaders fall the last few years suggesting that greed is still alive and kickin’ in many organizations and beyond. Stay tuned for the new sequel which Oliver Stone began filming in New York this week.  I’d rather see a film that focuses around the issue of social responsibility and community spirit but it would not likely be a block buster at the box office. Somehow, I don’t see business leaders and philanthropists like Brett Wilson supporting this idea.

I often refer to Mark Anielski’s book titled “The Economics of Happiness: Building Genuine Wealth. His insight and dedication to the subject of economics is truly inspirational and life changing, if you embrace many of his concepts.  Mark writes that ” businesses today have an important opportunity – indeed a responsibility – to make their actions contribute to the well-being of communities. The future belongs to business leaders who understand, at the heart level, the need for social and environmental responsibility for the common good.”  He also highlights various progressive businesses that are leading the way to a Genuine Wealth economy.  If your asking yourself how this all relates to crime prevention and creating safe communities, you’ve probably missed your first opportunity to become a community builder.

Feeling extremely compelled to offer some support to the Stettlerite I found myself commenting on the newspapers blog, here is what I wrote:

” Your concerns are being voiced in many communities throughout our province. Trust me when I say, you are not alone. There are certainly solutions but they are not overnight remedies, they do take time and a commitment from the community. You may actually hold the key by being the catalyst for change or as some people like to refer to them, an Agent of Change.

The Police are doing their part and the government is doing theirs.  However, we are often critical of both and I attribute this negativity to our frustration with the crime we see in our communities. Make no mistake, they are challenged, just as we are by issues such as funding and capacity. They need people like you and I to step forward and be a support. We are only limited by our own creativity when it comes to community-based crime prevention.

The more each of us play a role, the less crime there will be in our communities. We must take ownership and be good stewards of crime prevention. Carefully consider new alternatives or best practices such as Crime Prevention through Environmental Design. Be an advocate for change and suggest utilizing some of these techniques as we have done in Red Deer. The challenge for everyone is to build a feeling of oneness, of dependence on one another, because the question is not how well we work alone, but how well we work together.”

Let’s not be complacent, keep the river flowing no matter what!  For those afraid of change and who often follow the path of least resistance, consider this quote by John Welwood: “The most powerful agent of growth and transformation is something much more basic than any technique: a change of heart.”