eder way

I have not even been here for 24 hours and can say that this is one of the coolest cities I have ever visited. Our hotel, the Le Centre Sheraton, is a street of Crescent and in the middle of Montreal’s nightlife district. There must be 500 clubs and restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. I spent several hours exploring last night, and plan to do so more today.

This picture was taken from my Blackberry looking up Crescent from Bishop Street…

One of the things that did stick me was the number of beggars I ran across while walking around last night. Certainly no more then any American city, though I do not remember seeing a single beggars while visiting Toronto several years ago. I normally wouldn’t note such a thing, though it was something that had been on my mind from a book I was reading on the flight up here. “Cities; Back from the Edge, New Life For Downtown” is an amazing book by Roberta Brandes Gratz & Norman Mintz. Chapter 2 discusses the efforts to revitalize Bryant Park in New York City. It was ultimately decided to try a simple approach starting with adding movable tables and chairs vs. a major new public project. Ultimately, Bryant Park today is a highlight on New York City and an amazing ‘third place‘ for people to congregate and enjoy.

My point being, should the community in which I live (Tulsa, OK) be looking at simple solutions and steps to help our homeless problem? Would something as simple as a few tables and chairs with chess sets begin to have an impact on the streets of Downtown Tulsa?

As our city looks to its future and rapid growth, with projects like Vision 2025, the river plan, and God-willing a mass transit system, I hope we don’t ignore the possible simple steps that could have an impact.

More ruminations as the week continues…

On a side note, God Bless the families and those impacted by the tragedy of the TAM Air flight in Brazil.