Burke Boosts GRNW Turnout; CPD Warns About Ruse Burglaries, Home Fix Scams

Ruse burglaries, home repair scams and graffiti removal were the primary topics of discussion at this month's meeting of the Garfield Ridge Neighborhood Watch, held at St. Jane Parish's Ward Hall.

A strong turnout---nearly double the usual GRNW audience---was chalked up to the appearance of 14th Ward Alderman Edward M. Burke, featured guest speaker.

"We are grateful to Alderman Burke and his staff for getting the word out via mail to let people know about this event," stated GRNW President Al Cacciottolo. "There were many

people here who have never been to a neighborhood watch meeting before. As successful as we have been with our efforts in the past few years, we know there's always room for growth. So it was great to see and meet new people."

Burke offered introductory remarks praising the GRNW and the larger Garfield Ridge community for its commitment to fighting crime and promoting improvement.

The alderman arranged for three Chicago Police Department officials to follow his remarks with a detailed discussion of ruse burglaries, confidence games and other crimes.

The final speaker, from the Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation, talked briefly about the Emanuel Administration's efforts to fight graffiti.

None of the speakers fielded questions from the lectern, but they did stick around after the event for one-on-one questions and discussions.

The Southwest Chicago Post was on hand to capture the featured speakers' remarks on video. Over 30 minutes' worth are posted below, for everyone unable to make the meeting.

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