Public Safety Forum generates controversy and ideas

On July 30th, DCF hosted Chief David Moore and D.A. Michael Green at a forum entitled Public Safety: Zero Tolerance and Beyond. Larry Feasel facilitated and provided context for many of the discussions, reaching back into his vast experience in law enforcement. In his opening remarks, Mayor Duffy encouraged those in attendance to present challenging questions and to offer ideas and suggestions for further consideration. During the two hour program, the Chief and the D.A. began by explaining their respective roles in the criminal justice/public safety environment. Many questioners described their personal observations and experiences, offering perspective and advice, along with anecdotal information for follow-up with the Chief and D.A. Green. I was struck by the tone of the evening, which was serious, intentional and respectful - no small feat for such a hot button topic. Our audience of 90 attendees included young and old, diverse races and ethnicities and an assortment of city residents and suburbanites. One group of young people who attended together represented a City of Rochester parks summer program where youth go about the business of searching out and rewarding people who are doing good things around the community. As a reward for good works, they give away tickets to local events and attractions, which are donated for this purpose. What a great way to put positive energy into practice. All in, my "unofficial" count was at least 17 people in attendance who appeared to be under 21 years of age - a great sight for DCF! Several high schoolers put questions to our panelists - so very articulate and, needless to say, plugged into their worlds in a way that adults do not get to experience first hand. Hats off to all who showed up, voiced their opinions and offered what they could to build community in and around Rochester. We also thank the several public officials who attended and heard these messages first-hand. Thanks also to community partners who came, including Josanne Reaves of Leadership Rochester and Ed Doherty of The Community Foundation. Have I mentioned that the Rochester Red Wings provided game tickets as thank you gifts for our panelists? Let's hope that all of us who love baseball get a chance to take in a game this summer.