SYNERGY  pronounced (sĭn′-ər-jē)

1. The interaction of two or more agents or forces so that their combined effect is greater than the sum of their individual effects.
2. Cooperative interaction among groups, especially among the acquired subsidiaries or merged parts of a corporation, that creates an enhanced combined effect.
3. (Jay’s definition) The combined efforts of two or more patrols or patrollers whose combined efforts are greater that the sum of the individual efforts.

Many of you have been following the discussions over the past several months regarding issues that are being raised at the national level. My message this issue of the SWEEP does not dwell on this topic – granted, you owe it to yourselves to be informed.

I started this article with a definition of “synergy.” What would it be like if we patrolled on our own little islands without interacting with anybody else? You can only imagine that each of us would evolve and develop our organizations – some of us good at some things, and not as good at others.

Think how much better we’d be if we shared our information and everybody could benefit from the brightest and best ideas out there. How many times have you been in a conversation between you and somebody else and the two of you came up with an idea that neither of you came up with on your own?

 What seems to me to be of great importance is to use “synergy” to strengthen our network of patrols and patrollers in the Region.  How do we do this? Attend Region activities, interact and exchange ideas; open communications between Patrol Reps to discuss issues and offer suggestions to one another. 

 The Patrol Reps of our region have been doing their part by meeting to discuss issues and concerns. This has been very helpful in strengthening that network that makes all of us better, and more meetings will follow.

 This issue of the SWEEP includes a number of opportunities for you to participate and interact. The program advisors have done a fabulous job of putting together even more programs.  I encourage each of you to consider your ability to participate in as many as you are able.

 We all enjoy patrolling because we love the camaraderie, the sense of service, and the satisfaction that we are doing something worthwhile. Our goal as a Region is to support and enhance your patrolling experience. We encourage your input to help us to do that better. Please feel free to drop me a line (mikbunz@charter.net) – your inputs are taken seriously and are very welcome.

Thanks for all of your hard work – I’m proud of all of you.

Jay Kristola