Friday, April 3
We graduated another class of seniors from our senior citizen police academy on Friday — I love this program! The seniors take a course in policing that reflects the actual police academy — they learn about the Newark Police Department from the inside. This level of understanding and partnership is so constructive in many ways — although I think the most enjoyable day for them is when they get to go to the firing range and demonstrate their marksmanship.
I spoke at Friday’s graduation to thank them and inspire them in our new deeper partnership.
Our seniors have seen so many challenges — they have seen a world war (in some cases, two), a depression, bigotry and segregation and prevailed through it all. They have literally and figuratively built the bridges and roads upon which my generation now walks. They are the great generation – and this group profoundly stated at their graduation, “God hasn’t finished with me yet!”.
We are pushing this year to cut the total number of shootings in our City in half since my administration began in July 2006. I believe we will do it but our accomplishment won’t simply be a result of our great new police director or even easily summarized by the incredible work of our dedicated officers. The story of our crime reduction is both one of phenomenal policing and incredible community involvement on all levels.
Yesterday, I was proud to welcome the even deeper commitment of a truly committed group of seniors in our City.
April 4th, 2009 at 6:33 pm
The very fact that the mayor of a city the size of Newark actually shares [with the public] his blog simply SPEAKS VOLUMES about that place — and, moreover, about that individual. That is, it illustrates how a man like Cory Booker continues to garner success in rendering Newark such a vibrant community; and “community” is precisely the word that best describes Newark. (Booker exemplifies the proud spirit with which the caring, responsible citizens approach their home!) And for those who truly care about this/their place, this access to the Mayor’s thinking is a … brilliant way of encouraging participation by one & all.
April 6th, 2009 at 1:20 pm
Good Day Mayor
I too share the gratitude for the participation of these seniors and their efforts to be proactive in their communities.
Many of our seniors are left alone with little or no contact with their immediate family members. Throught this program they learn skills and other techniques that can assist them in avoiding placing themselves in hazardous situations and avoid becoming a victim.
Oftentimes residents are cautious about speaking with police and inadvertently hinder an investigation by not doing so. These members are taught the importance of cooperating with the police and have the opportunity to participate in situations to place themselves in the shoes of a police officer responding to a emergency. This and other experiences they learn from this program is a great asset to them and the other members of their communities.
I speak from experience being a proud member of the Coty Of Newarks’ Community Emergency Response Team, Domestic Violence Team, and the Medical Emergency Response Team.
April 12th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Many of our seniors are often left out of the process of change. This is wonderful! What is next? Keep up the good work!
April 12th, 2009 at 8:37 pm
I believe that police men and women are absolutely essential to our society and cities where crime is high and the risks are greatest. Although we are aware of rogue police officers, they are outnumbered by those who take the oath to serve and protect with heart. Crime and corruption are facts of life that as a society, we can work with the police to minimize as much as possible. I am so grateful to those who wish to serve and protect. I offer sincere congratulations as well as long and successful careers.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:10 am
Hey, Cory –
I suppose that [now that you're an Old Man of Forty(!)] you’ve got your hands mighty FULL! Hence, I completely understand why you haven’t updated your blog in … weeks. (hint hint)
For those of us who have weeded through numerous OTHER online offerings [with which to pass/waste our VALUABLE time], your blog entries really DO make rather interesting reading. (Also, it reminds us that you are … [dare I say it?] Human.)
Actually — come to think of it — Procrastination (or, rather, delaying another entry) is quite human, too. (Also, age slows a person down.)
I hope that you’re (so far) enjoying your fifth decade!