Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Mike Hitchen Unleashed: Cricket - Pakistan vs India, hats off to the NYPD

Like almost every police force, the NYPD, comes in for it's fair share of criticism. Similarly, like almost every other police force, it is at times warranted. When it is justified, it makes the headlines. However, the good things police departments do are usually overlooked and community initiatives rarely make the headlines.

This article wont make national or international headlines, but deserves recognition.

Back in Aug 2009, I published an article NYPD using cricket to reach out to ethnic groups. Cricket is little known or understood in the U.S. but NYPD, cleverly use the centuries-old game as a good way to reach out to sections of the community. If you haven't read that article yet, it's well worth a read.

Shortly after the post was published I was contacted and thanked by the organizer - a guy who happens to be closely connected to Australia. Since then I have followed the program's progress.

This morning I received an email from NYPD Community Affairs Bureau inviting me to

Come Join Us For The Crucial World Cup Cricket Match PAKISTAN vs. INDIA
March 30th, 2011, 5am

Also, bring friends to come watch the match (on Big Screen) with fellow cricket fans regardless of who you support.


I hope the breakfast is a success it deserves to be and NYPD should be congratulated for their initiative.

Whoever you support, be united as one for a fine and noble game. May the best team win, but ultimately, let community relations be the real winner

Wherever you may be - be safe
Copyright Mike Hitchen Online, Lane Cove, NSW, Australia. All rights reserved