Car Rallies and 'Tequila Sunrise'

MEMORANDUM

FROM:   Jennifer Adams, Executive Superintendent

Dr. Petra Duschner, Manager, Safe Schools & Community Agency Liaison

DATE:   19 May 2011

RE:     Car Rallies and 'Tequila Sunrise'

As in previous years, the Ottawa Police Service is requesting our assistance in distributing information regarding Car Rallies and Tequila Sunrise as they relate to graduation “end-of-year” activities.

Car rallies are typically a fund raising event involving "teams" of high school seniors getting together for a type of "treasure hunt".  Teams accumulate points by completing tasks that can range from unpleasant to criminal, and potentially dangerous.  Police are expecting an increase in the number of car rallies across the city over the next few weeks.

Tequila Sunrise refers to a gathering of students, historically the night before the last day of school, when students roam neighbourhoods and parks consuming alcohol, taking drugs and partying until the "proverbial" sunrise.

Unfortunately these events have, in the past, resulted in damages due to vandalism and mischief.  Of even greater importance is the safety of the students involved in either of these activities.  Our experience is that not only graduating students participate in these activities.

Please read the attached communiqués to your students and parents.  We support the work of the Ottawa Police Service in this initiative.

If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Petra Duschner, Manager of Safe Schools and Community Agency Liaison, or your superintendent of instruction.