In view of the current crime situation (which is not great), the CRA Executive feels that we should start our crime program immediately, i.e. in the first ten days of March. The following was taken into consideration: 

• The CRA in conjunction with ADT has achieved just under 50% of its target. 
• We will trigger off the debit orders/cheques/cash/electronic debit orders on the 15th of March. 
• ADT will with immediate effect place two vehicles (24/7) - one extra in Craighall and in Craighall Park (as you know, the ultimate goal is to have six response vehicles). 
• Other than fewer vehicles than we would wish, all the extra benefits will be offered from 5 March (cellphone communication numbers to subscribers, valet services etc). 

We do understand that this means residents who have contributed to the plan will be carrying those who have not paid. The CRA and ADT will continue to pursue those residents who haven’t paid until we reach the target of a minimum of 550 debit orders/addendums at R182.00 per month, ie just over 30% of our residents, excluding complexes and businesses. When you consider that suburbs such as Forest Town (admittedly a smaller area) have 86% of residents supporting a similar scheme, we can only appeal to you to contact neighbours and friends to join up.

We are sure that current non-participants will see the value and sense of supporting our integrated crime project. There is enough evidence around almost to convince anyone at this stage! You asked for this crime blanket in June last year and it’s taken a long time, tough negotiations and hard work to achieve this option. If you haven’t paid, please don’t let your community down – sign up now. Remember your commitment would only be for one year. If you would like to know who has contributed thus far, names of contributors follow below.

To get your debit order please contact the following people immediately:
Peter Heritage 083 261-7576
Roly Meyer 011 442-6801
John Turpin 083 381 1069
Wendy McAllister 011 325-7165
On-line at: www.cra.org.za/fight_crime.htm (for either CRA form or ADT Addendum form)

If there are subscribers who wish to comment on the tack we are taking, please don’t hesitate to call our Chairman John Turpin (011 325-4547).

When we get to our full target you will see and believe that Craighall and Craighall Park are serious about what they’re doing. Let’s stop crime before it happens! 

STOP PRESS re a new hijacking technique
Talbrager Ave residents warn that would-be hijackers are now tying your gate closed with cable ties. When you arrive at your gate, it will not open. You then get out of the car to inspect the gate and that's when they strike. Lesson: if your gate does not open, drive away and phone security.

Thanks
The following residents of Craighall and Craighall Park have kindly made a contribution to the new security initiative that the CRA is launching on 5th March 2007.

CRA joins forces to fight crime – the teams got together on 
Saturday 17 Feb to create more awareness in our neighbourhood.