Organizers were determined to avoid the violence that had plagued other recent meetings of economic organizations. In addition, there was a change in international security brought about by the events of September 11, 2001. The fact that leaders of eight Western nations were planning to attend was a major security concern. Several key decisions were made to eliminate violence. First, the main meeting of the G8 leaders was moved out of the national capital of Ottawa and held in Kananaskis, Alberta. There was a large police and military presence in the heavily wooded terrain. As a result, most protestors decided to avoid the main meeting site and organized their protests in the nearby city of Calgary. The G8 security operation involved officials from many different services and agencies, including agencies such as fire departments and paramedics. Law enforcement information sharing became an absolute necessity. Direct sharing with American agencies was also a key factor. The Ottawa planners decided to adopt a “soft hat” approach with respect to all law enforcement practices. No new barriers of any type would be erected in advance of the protests. No blocking of public parks would occur. No tactical police were to be seen by the public or the protestors. A major events liaison team (MELT) was formed, which would hold public meetings with protest groups and other concerned citizens. MELT members were dressed either in civilian clothes or in police-style shorts and golf shirts clearly marked “police liaison.” However, tactical police were kept close to the scene and ready at all times throughout the protest period. Real-time surveillance footage, video downlinks, and fixed-wing aircraft were all used to track the protests, demonstrators, and buses. A joint intelligence group (JIG) was formed to provide accurate and timely intelligence to decision makers. The Foreign Broadcast Information Service (FBIS) was also used for its additional international content. In the end, 2 days of protests were carried out without any major incidents.