Rotary: November 27th, 2013 meeting

                     Speakers' Corner

We had two speakers today..a brief presentation from guest Chris Eastman about the "I am Someone" campaign to end bullying.  The movement was born out of recent tragic events in our own community when former Club member Gary Mauris and Mayor Moore joined forces to initiate a community response to this growing problem...Port Coquitlam having seen 6 recent youth suicides...a full 2% of the national total.

Chris told us about the walk being held at Leigh Square on Dec 8th starting at 12 noon (registration)and walk beginning at 1 pm.  This is a great chance for the community to show support to the victims of bullying, to recognize how deep the behaviours run in our community and their effect on young and old alike and to try to embrace those who display the behaviours and show them a more positive path in their own lives too.  All welcome.


Our second speaker was recently appointed Chief of the Port Moody Police, Chris Rattenbury.  Chief Rattenbury had initially contemplated sharing the department's strategic plan with us, but on the advice of a wise woman .. his wife.. decided to instead give us a glimpse into the issues our police officers face in todays policing world:  Regaining lost public trust, community policing the future of policing in a world of new technologies and techniques.

Chief Rattenbury spent the first 8 years of his own career with Vancouver City Police but with his remaining service in Port Moody..he already knows the community well.  He spoke simply but eloquently about the roots of modern policing and the mission to prevent crime and disorder by engaging the publics trust and support.  Some high profile recent events have worn at that trust and has resulted in changes to accountability mechanisms and more civilian oversight.

With respect to community policing, Chief Rattenbury stated the obvious..the police can not do it all alone or in isolation.  He shared a vision of weaving together many partners to create a social fabric that encourages crime prevention and helps maintain the public approval and communication that is needed for a police force to stay effective and have community support and approval.

He closed by describing a future where data analysis will help predict crime patterns. New technologies, while helping to focus resources efficiently are also proving to be a growing cost item in policing budgets. Last, but not least..policing still depends on people and the training of future police leaders is also near to his mind when visioning the future of policing services in our community.  

Thanks to Chief Rattenbury for spending time with us this morning and giving us
a very interesting view of the world of the police men and women we rely on to keep our community safe and secure.