August 2nd Meeting Recap

 

 

Last week's meeting was our annual joint gathering with the Wayzata Chamber and the Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition to kickoff "Night to Unite." Night to Unite is a yearly event designed to strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. This annual luncheon is a chance to show gratitude and honor the debt our communities owe our public safety personnel.  Officers from Wayzata, Minnetonka, Minnetrista, Deephaven, Medina, Orono and Hennepin County were present, as well as the Wayzata Fire Department.
 
Thank you to Emcee Greg Rye for hosting the meeting.  Greg opened with a touching tribute Jamison and Kathryne Pals and their three children. Kathryne is  Gordy Engels' youngest daughter.  Speakers at the luncheon, including Mayor Ken Wilcox and Mn Commisioner of Public Safety Mona Dohman reminded us that these are people who run into danger when everyone else is running away, and that they are loving, caring, compassionate leaders with very difficult jobs. Chief Risvold spoke about some of the more memorable police cases of the past year, and linked a prevention tip to each of the cases. Chief Risvold's tips: 
  • To prevent electronic theft, monitor financial accounts regularly (and provide this service for vulnerable adults)
  • To prevent car breaki-ins, don't leave valuables visible in cars, even when they are locked
  • To prevent mail and ID theft, don't use your street mailbox for outgoing mail, and collect incoming mail as quickly as possible
  • To prevent street robbery, don't walk around looking at your phone, be aware of your surroundings
  • When confronted by armed robbers, assume the gun is real
  • Never give pot brownies to 22 month old children (!)
  • If you need to exchange goods (Craigs List, for example) do it in the lobby of a police station
The Jim Fish Citizen Crime Prevention Award was presented by the WCPC to Barry Petit for his outstanding service to the community.  Congratulations Barry, and thank you for all you do for the community. Thank you to all who worked to put on this important program, sponsors Sears Auto and The Retreat, and most importantly to all our public safety personnel.