An ELEVATOR MINUTE in the City of Leduc

by Dominique Vrolyk

Friday, September 14, 2012

They have belonged to this community for many years. They are known to be fiercely loyal and dynamically focused on a safe community. They cycle, walk and drive all over the City of Leduc: we owe them sincere thanks when they catch someone intent on robbing you or damaging your property.

I am referring to the NIGHTHAWKS, the Black Gold Citizens On Patrol volunteers who work hand in hand with the RCMP and who provide Leduc residents with an added sense of safety. While I was standing in my front yard at dusk recently, contemplating my latest gardening endeavor, I saw these two men cycling by, and one of them greeted me by name… He recognized me from meeting me at various local functions and from some interesting chats I have had with Nighthawks members who were providing security services on site.

Mark and Gene were riding their ‘touring bikes’, and explained that this model of a bike is more suited for their long bike rides in our city than a mountain bike would be. We talked about the challenging issue (and life-saving habit) of wearing a helmet while riding a bike and we talked about the increasing popularity of this volunteer-driven organisation. Later on during their shift, Mark and Gene were about to switch to riding in their truck, to drive all over Leduc as they finished their evening patrol. Nighthawks are provided with a radio that links them directly to the RCMP, and also with gas vouchers. Each member is required to put in 10 hours of patrol per month, and to attend a monthly meeting.

Mark is a family man and a sales executive, and Gene is the chairman of a high profile Leduc seniors group: they share a passionate desire to serve and protect their community. Sometimes they will go on a 3 to 5 hour patrol, and on special occasions like the Black Gold Rodeo, they’ll put in an 8-hour shift. A couple of years ago, the Nighthawks’ group had diminished, but of late, an influx of enthusiasm and spirited marketing brought the numbers up to an impressive 21 members. Sponsored by the City of Leduc, this group includes three ladies, with a few others in line to get accredited: they always work in pairs, and many friendships have been born through this group… Many Canadian communities have a Citizens On Patrol group, and here in Alberta, they belong to ACOPA. Yes, we can proud of the NIGHTHAWKS, and grateful for their dedication and hard work.

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