Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Fingerprinting and Police Programs

I’m on the Board of Directors of the Franklin Square Raiders Soccer Club, and we’d like to set up a day where the police would come to the field and do the fingerprinting of the kids. We have several hundred children in the organization and think it’d be a nice thing to offer the parents. We’d like to set it up for a Sunday in October, could you tell me who I’d need to contact about this?
Thank you,
Deanna Gisonda


Dear Ms. Gisonda,
It is wonderful of you to coordinate this effort. The Police Department does not provide this service however the Town of Hempstead does. Below is the information from the Town of Hempstead web site link. I know other youth groups in our community have had great success with this program.
Nassau County Police 5th Precinct P.O.P. Unit does provide Officers who do presentations on many topics with parents, senior citizens and/or children. Topics include: Bullying, Cyber Bullying, Drugs, Gangs, Crimes Against the Elderly, Staying Safe, Social Host Laws, Seat Belts- Cellphones- Leandra’s Law… The Nassau County Police Departments Fifth Precinct P.O.P. Unit can be reached at 573-6570 if you would like to schedule a presentation.
Nassau County Police Dept Community Affairs Division, Officer Dockswell also does presentations on Cyber Bullying, Bullying and Sexting that no parent or child should miss. His mission is to educate students and parents throughout the county on staying safe and using technology responsibly. Officer Dockswell challenges students to consider how someone who doesn’t stop another person from being bullied contributes to the problem. He provides the audience with “much food for thought” about using technology and respecting other’s feelings. A responsibility that everyone shares. Police Officer Dockswell can be reached at (516) 573-7360
As for fingerprinting, The Town of Hempstead wants to protect and safeguard our children. Accordingly, the Town Clerk's office administers a comprehensive Child Safety Identification Program.
This program is unique in that they actually take the child's fingerprints and photograph FREE of charge. In addition, there are no privacy violation concerns because there is no negative generated from the child's photo (Polaroid camera is used). They will also assist you in affixing strands of hair to this identification file. The completed kit is given to the child's family. By utilizing Mobile Town Hall, the Town Clerk's office can bring this service to schools, clubs, teams and organizations in our communities. To schedule the Town Clerk's Child Safety Program or for additional information, call (516) 489-5000, ext. 3219. This service is also available at Town Hall.
If you require any further assistance please contact the P.O.P. Unit at 573-6570
Sincerely,
P.O. John Miller
Problem Oriented Policing Unit

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

United States Attorneys' Advisory Council

BUILDING A CULTURE OF INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY

MAINTAIN SITUATIONAL AWARENESS

• Know your surroundings. Every environment (neighborhood/business) has unique, routine patterns of activity and generally consistent patterns of behavior associated with the residents/occupants.
• The best Intelligence comes from observant citizens. Establish a mental baseline of routine activity and report unusual/anomalous behavior to law enforcement.
• You are in the best position to evaluate your environment, don’t rely strictly on “security” or law enforcement for your personal protection.
• Report loitering, unattended vehicles, suspicious packages, unusual photography or videotaping taking note of the time and description of suspicious person(s) or vehicle(s).
• Report attempts to solicit personal information about you or your business.

ESTABLISH A SECURITY MINDSET

• You do not need to be a law enforcement officer or trained security professional to assess threatening situations and report suspicious activity. At your place of business and in your community promote a culture of responsibility.
• Accept that YOU are part of the security equation.
• You are part of a layered approach to security. Law enforcement is only one layer in that system of security.
• Maintain a state of “relaxed awareness”, that is, a state where you are cognizant of dangers but not so alert that you are in a constant state of fear or readiness for something bad to happen. The latter state is known as hyper vigilance and can actually reduce your ability to respond appropriately.
• Promote security as everyone’s business.

AVOID COMPLACENCY or FATALISM or HYPERVIGILANCE

ALL three can be deadly.
• COMPLACENCY-“It can’t happen to me”, “Why would they attack us?”, “It won’t happen here.”
• FATALISM-“If it’s going to happen there is nothing I can do about it.”
• HYPERVIGILANCE-“The danger is everywhere-they’re going to kill all of us.”
Take care of yourself. Take care of your family. Take care of your community

RECOGNIZE THE ATTACK CYCLE

• An attack is almost always preceded by surveillance or “casing”.
• The intelligence operative actively probes for vulnerabilities in security while noting routines, possible attack/breaching points and establishing possible cover stories to gain access based on observations of routine activity.
• The intelligence operative may rent in a more transient neighborhood where people don’t ask questions.
• Intelligence Operatives and or Attack Operatives may dress as public utility workers, road workers, vendors, package couriers (UPS, FEDEX). Attack operatives overseas have dressed as police or military.
• The intelligence operative may ask unusual questions relative to the number of employees, hours of operation, safety or security plans etc.
• Intelligence operatives may videotape; appear to be ‘walking off’ or measuring distances, attempt to acquire blueprints etc.
• Operatives may use “cloned” or stolen official vehicles such as ambulances and official uniforms to attempt intrusion/penetration with little to no resistance under some guise of legitimacy/authority.
• Be aware of the insider threat-attackers may attempt to gain employment or place someone on the inside to learn your security practices and facilitate the attack. The insider is often a low wage employee with broad facility access such as a custodian or temporary maintenance worker. The insider may not be an actual employee but a delivery person granted access to the facility. The insider may pose as mentally challenged or feign having no knowledge of the language.

BE UNPREDICTABLE

• Vary daily routines; avoid predictable patterns of activity whenever possible.
• When driving use your rear and side view mirrors periodically to ascertain if you are being followed.
• At work; avoid marked parking spaces with the occupants name or title. Park in different spots
• Parking lots and garages should be maintained with gates locked at all times and be well lit. Do not park in public garages with inadequate security.
• If you have been the subject of threats-check around and under your vehicle
• Go with your gut-if you don’t feel right subconsciously you are noting behavior and you should not dismiss these feelings.

PERSONAL SECURITY WHILE AWAY

• Do not discuss your business or travel plans in public areas where they may be overheard. Discuss your travel plans and movements during your stay with as few people as possible.
• Be low key-Don’t call attention to yourself as a Westerner in a foreign country.
• Select a hotel room on the third to fifth floor generally will keep you out of reach of criminal activity from the street but still within reach of most fire truck ladders.
• Be alert to overly friendly locals who may have criminal intentions. They may offer to take you to a “special” restaurant.
• Place airplane tickets, credit cards, passport or other documents of personal identification in a hotel safe deposit box or room safe.
• Familiarize yourself with escape routes in case of fire or other catastrophe.
• Use the door chain or bolt lock whenever you are in your room.
• Use the door viewer (peephole) before opening the door to visitors.
• Do not discuss your room number while standing in the lobby or leave your room key on restaurant or bar tables.
• Keep your room neat so you will notice disturbed or missing items quickly.

CARJACKING

• When in your car, always keep the doors locked. Any time you drive through areas containing stoplights, stop signs-keep your windows up.
• Leave ample maneuvering space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. If you are approached by suspicious persons while you are stopped, do not roll down windows; drive away quickly.
• If you are being followed or harassed by another driver, try to find the nearest police station, fire station, or other public facility. Once you find a place of safety, don’t worry about using a legal parking space. Enter and walk quickly to the largest group of people.
• If you are being followed, never lead the person back to your home or stop and get out.
• If you are traveling alone and a car “bumps” into you, don’t stop to exchange accident information. Go to the nearest Police Station.

BUILDING SECURITY

• Check all entrances, including service doors, access to service elevators and gates. Are these areas monitored/guarded? Are locks sufficient? Are locks broken or disabled?
• Keep doors locked and limit entrance points.
• Assure only known persons properly identified and issued security ids/badges are granted access.
• Card keys and cameras are only useful if you do not circumvent, override or ignore these technologies. Do not allow others through doors (to piggy back) on your card.
• Challenge all visitors. Ask questions of visitors relative to their activities.
• Periodically walk the perimeter of your building taking note of overgrown shrubs, broken windows, broken door locks, unlocked gates, holes in fencing, and signs of attempted intrusion or vandalism.
• Get to know your neighbors. Develop a rapport with them.
• Never leave keys “hidden” outside your home or workplace.
• Note and report loitering by suspicious individuals or the sighting of suspicious vehicles, particularly if observed on multiple occasions.
• Note and report any instances of suspicious photography or videotaping.

BUILDING SECURITY AT NIGHT

• If you do not have an alarm systems at least consider motion detector flood lights on each corner of the building.
• Flood lights should “wash” the building with light (i.e. stream across windows making it more difficult to see in).
• Keep flashlights in several areas in the building. Check the batteries often.

SUSPICIOUS PACKAGES

A letter or parcel bomb might have some of the following indicators:
• Suspicious origin--especially if the postmark or name of sender is unusual, unknown, or no forwarding address is given.
• Excessive or inadequate postage.
• Off-balance or lopsided letter or package.
• Unusual weight for the size of the letter or package. Letters also may be unusually thick.
• Stiffness or springiness of contents. (When checking, do not bend excessively.)
• Protruding wires or components
• Strange smell, particularly almond or other suspicious odors.
• Handwriting of sender is not familiar or indicates a foreign style not normally received by recipient.
• Common words or names are misspelled.
• Addressed to a title only or a name with the incorrect title
• Rub on or tapped or pasted cut out block lettering.
• Restrictive markings such as “confidential”, “personal”, “to be opened by”
• Rattling inside the envelope or package--possibly loose components of a device.
• Excessive tape, string or other material to hold the envelope together.
If encountered always employ SIN (Secure, Isolate and Notify the police).
If you strongly suspect a bomb call 911 and request the bomb squad. If you suspect a chemical or biological agent isolate the package, place a trash can or other cover over the package, call 911 and specifically request HAZMAT, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and warm water. If a suspicious powder is encountered call to disable the air handling system.

POTENTIAL INDICATORS of VEHICLE-BORNE IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVE DEVICES(VBIEDs)
• Theft or purchase—particularly cash purchases from private individuals—of large delivery vehicles, vans, cargo containers, trailers or related equipment.
• Individuals seeking commercial driver training who seem to lack industry knowledge or show interest in only certain aspects of the training.
• A vehicle “ridding low” as if carrying excessive weight.
• A vehicle illegally parked or left unattended in an unusual location.
• Occupant quickly exits the vehicle, looking around when exiting.
• Vehicle has tinted windows or window shades obstructing interior view.
• Blanket or tarp covering packages in the vehicle.
• License plate is not securely affixed to the vehicle.
• Out of state license plates-only one plate from state requiring two
• Government or other official plate on an older or mismatched vehicle.
• “Cloned” vehicle-marked as a courier, utility or emergency vehicle with unusual indicators such as incorrect number placements, color variation, slight variation in markings, misspelled words, roof racks, ladders, safety cones or other “props” that appear new and never used etc.

Source: United States Attorney’s Anti-terrorism Advisory Council (ATAC)

Heat Advisory

COMMISSIONER MULVEY AND NCPD EMERGENCY AMBULANCE BUREAU ISSUE SUMMER HEAT SAFETY TIPS

Summer is here and along with it comes hot and humid conditions. Rising temperatures, and upcoming heat waves can create a dangerous environment for the residents and visitors of Nassau County. In an effort to help prevent heat related medical conditions, we have put together some tips to keep Nassau residents aware of the signs and symptoms of heat related medical conditions such as dehydration, heatstroke, and heat exhaustion. In addition, we have also listed some tips on how to prevent heat stroke and dehydration and how to treat heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

“I would like to remind residents to dial 911 at the first sign of a medical emergency,” said Commissioner Mulvey. “In addition, I also ask that residents check on their family, friends and neighbors, especially if they are senior citizens.”

Signs & Symptoms:
Heat Exhaustion
· Severe thirst
· Fatigue
· Muscle cramps
· Aches
· Muscle weakness
· Nausea and/or vomiting
· Fast, shallow breathing
· Irritability
· Headache
· Increased sweating
· Cool, clammy skin
· Elevation of body temperature to 105 degrees Fahrenheit or higher

Heat Stroke
· Severe throbbing headache
· Dizziness
· Disorientation, agitation or confusion
· Sluggishness or fatigue
· Seizure
· Hot, dry skin that is flushed but not sweaty
· A high body temperature
· Loss of consciousness
· Rapid heart beat
· Hallucinations

Dehydration
· Thirst
· Less-frequent urination
· Dry skin
· Fatigue
· Light-headedness
· Dizziness
· Confusion
· Dry mouth and mucous membranes
· Increased heart rate and breathing
In children, additional symptoms may include dry mouth and tongue; no tears when crying; no wet diapers for more than 3 hours; sunken abdomen, eyes or cheeks; high fever; listlessness; irritability; skin that does not flatten when pinched and released.

How Heatstroke Can Be Prevented·
Drink plenty of fluids during outdoor activities; water and sports drinks are preferred; tea, coffee, soda and alcohol should be avoided
· Wear lightweight, tightly woven, loose-fitting clothing in light colors
· Schedule vigorous activity and sports for cooler times of the day
· Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat, sunglasses and using an umbrella
· Increase time spent outdoors gradually get your body used to the heat
· During outdoor activities, take frequent drink breaks and mist yourself with a spray bottle to avoid becoming overheated
· Try to spend as much time indoors as possible on very hot humid days
How dehydration Can Be Prevented
· Drink plenty of fluids, especially when working or playing in the sun
· Make sure you are taking in more fluid than you are losing
· Drink appropriate sports drinks to help maintain electrolyte balance
· Infants and children should be given Pedialyte to maintain their electrolyte balance

How to treat Heatstroke and Heat Exhaustion
· Bring the person indoors, or into the shade immediately
· Remove their clothing, and gently apply cool water to the skin followed by fanning to stimulate sweating
· Apply ice packs to the groin and armpits
· Have the person lie down in a cool area with their feet slightly elevated

Nassau County Auxiliary Police

The Auxiliary Police are made up of residents from communities throughout Nassau County which:
* Patrol in marked vehicles helping to make their community a safer place to live
* Help prevent criminal activity by being the "eyes and ears" of the Police Department.
* Direct traffic at parades and special events.
* Serve during disasters and other emergencies.

The Auxiliary Police was established pursuant to provisions of the Civil Defense Act of 1951 and is composed of civic-minded residents of the community who work together to improve the level of safety and security in their community. The presence of the Auxiliary Police, in uniform, on patrol in marked police units has been proven to reduce vandalism and other crimes in the community.

How do you benefit as an Auxiliary Police Officer?
* Self-satisfaction in knowing that you are serving your community.
* Excellent experience for those considering a career in law enforcement.
* Many local colleges give credits to criminal justice majors who successfully complete the Auxiliary Police basic training course at the Police Academy.

Members attend and complete a 23-session basic training course given at the Nassau County Police Academy.
Training includes:
* Peace Officer powers
* New York State Penal Law
* Hazardous Materials Awareness
* Baton Training
* Blood-Borne Pathogens
* Basic First Aid/CPR
* Traffic and Pedestrian Control
* Response to Critical Incidents
* Gang Awareness
Communication Officer
Officers serving in this unit engage in various tasks:
Coordinating and documenting daily and emergency functions of personnel, telephone networking of members duties, radio dispatching of units on patrol, managing emergency response to disasters and events, along with providing an important link to other law enforcement agencies as well as fire, medical and governmental entities.


Applicant Requirements:
· Must be at least 18 years old
· Must be resident of Nassau County
· Must be a citizen of the United States
· Must possess a valid NYS driver's license
· Must possess a high school diploma or G.E.D.
· Must be of good moral character without a felony conviction.
(A misdemeanor conviction may also prevent acceptance.)
· Not more than one (1) alcohol-related driving offense and cannot have been convicted of any drug-related driving offense.
· Must pass a physical examination
· Must submit to fingerprinting
· Must consent to a background investigation
· Must submit to a drug test and be willing to submit to a psychological exam.

Members with certain disabilities may be eligible to serve in non-patrol duties,
such as the Auxiliary Police Communications Unit. If you have any Questions
about the Auxiliary Police or would like to join the ranks of the dedicated members serving their community, please call 573-7520. or email ncap@auxiliary-police.org.

Monday, June 28, 2010

R.E.A.C.H.

MANGANO, WALKER AND NCPD TO HOST
R.E.A.C.H. REGISTRATION EVENT

Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano and Legislator Rose Marie Walker are pleased to announce that, along with the Nassau County Police Department, they will be hosting a R.E.A.C.H. (Return Every Adult & Child Home) Program Registration Event for Nassau residents on Wednesday, June 30th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Bethpage/Senior Community Center, located at 103 Grumman Road West in Bethpage.

Registration for the R.E.A.C.H. Program is free; however, the person being registered must be present at the time of registration. No medical records are necessary, but residents should be prepared to discuss whether the registrant has medical conditions that may require immediate treatment if they were to go missing.

The R.E.A.C.H. Program was designed by the NCPD in an effort to provide law enforcement officials with pertinent information and photos of individuals who suffer from a cognitive disorder (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease, Dementia, Autism, etc.) should they go missing. After an individual is registered with the R.E.A.C.H. Program, their information-- including a photograph--is stored in a secure database, which was created by the NCPD. When law enforcement is notified of a missing loved one, the NCPD will disseminate a photo and pertinent information to the NCPD’s Real Time Intel system (RTI). RTI is a system designed to deliver timely intelligence into the hands of those in the operational side of law enforcement, and it can be viewed in every precinct, squad room, patrol car, and in many villages. A separate notification will be disseminated to the media through the existing Silver Alert Program.

The R.E.A.C.H. Program also provides a proactive approach to keeping these individuals safe and returning them to their families. Officers will be able to view the photo and information of registrants in the areas they are patrolling. If, while on patrol, they see a R.E.A.C.H. Program registrant walking far from home or heading towards public transportation, they can help to ensure their safe return home.

Residents who are unable to attend the registration event can call the NCPD at (516) 573-5775, Monday through Friday 9:00.am. to 4:00p.m. to set up an appointment.

Friday, June 25, 2010

Break the Grip of the Rip

In Wake of Beach Drowning, Town Lifeguards Demonstrate How to Survive Rip Current
June 24, 2010

Tuesday, the latest youngster died in Long Beach after being caught in a riptide while swimming without the supervision of a lifeguard. In the wake of this most recent tragedy, Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray and town ocean lifeguards will offer beach safety tips and demonstrate how to avoid being caught in a deadly rip current.

"One drowning death is one too many," said Supervisor Murray. "As the weather heats up and more people head to our local beaches, we want to ensure that they are armed with the information they need to swim safely."

Rip currents are powerful, channeled currents of water flowing away from the shore. Typically, rip currents extend from the shoreline, through the surf zone and past the line of breaking waves. Rip currents can occur at any beach with breaking waves.

Some tips the supervisor offered to swimmers who are caught in a rip current include remaining calm and conserving energy; not fighting against the current; thinking of the current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of; swimming out of the current in the direction following the shoreline; if unable to swim out of current, float or calmly tread water, swimming toward the shore when out of the current; or, if unable to reach the shore, waving arms and yelling for help. Tips were also issued for those on the shoreline who see a person in trouble to prevent them from becoming a victim of the rip current as well.

Other simple safety tips that beachgoers can follow are never swimming alone and never swimming outside designated swimming areas.

"One of the most important safety tips that we can offer is to always swim near a lifeguard," concluded Murray. "Our lifeguards are trained to deal with the rip currents. If there is no lifeguard, DO NOT GO IN THE WATER."

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Water Safety

Nassau County Police Commissioner Lawrence W. Mulvey would like to remind county residents that water safety is something that all parents should be aware of. Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury related death among children ages 1 - 14. It can happen very quickly and in less than 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) of water, so filled bathtubs, swimming pools, wading pools, hot tubs, and even buckets of water and sinks can be dangerous.
To reduce your child's risk of drowning
Home
Never leave a small child unattended in the bath. If you must answer the telephone or door, don't rely on an older sibling to watch the child, bring the younger child with you.
Never leave a small child unattended near a bucket filled with any amount of water or other liquid.
Never use a bathtub seat with suction cups. The seat can overturn and flip a baby headfirst into the water.
Install a toilet-lid locking device or keep bathroom doors closed at all times. (Or you may want to install a doorknob cover.)
Pool
Never leave your children alone in or near the pool, even for a moment. An adult who knows CPR should actively supervise children at all times.
Practice ‘touch supervision’ with children younger than 5 years. This means that the adult is within an arm's length of the child at all times.
If you are planning a pool party, consider hiring a certified lifeguard to supervise those who will be in the pool.
Put up a fence to separate your house from the pool. Most young children who drown in pools wander out of the house and fall into the pool. Install a fence at least 4 feet high around the pool. This fence will completely separate the pool from the house and play area of the yard. Use gates that self-close and self-latch, with latches higher than your children's reach.
Keep rescue equipment (such as a shepherd's hook or life preserver) and a telephone by the pool.
Do not use air-filled "swimming aids" as a substitute for approved life vests.
Remove all toys from the pool after use so children aren't tempted to reach for them.
After the children are done swimming, secure the pool so they can't get back into it.
A power safety cover that meets the standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) may add to the protection of your children but should not be used in place of the fence between your house and the pool. Even fencing around your pool and using a power safety cover will not prevent all drowning.
Drain Entrapment occurs when part of a child’s body becomes attached to a drain because of the powerful suction of a pool or hot tub filtration system. The powerful suction can trap a child underwater or cause internal injuries. It can also occur when a child’s hair, swimsuit or jewelry becomes entangled in the drain. In 2007, the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act made it illegal to manufacture, distribute or sell drain covers that do not adhere to the standards for anti-entrapment safety set by the Consumer Product and Safety Commission.
Warn your children about the dangers of drain entrapment, and teach them never to play near a pool drain, with or without a cover.
Pin up long hair when in the water and remove loose parts of swimsuits and loose jewelry that can get ensnared.
Equip pools and hot tubs with an anti-entrapment drain cover and an approved safety vacuum release system and regularly check that drain covers are secure and have no cracks. Flat drain covers can be replaced with dome-shaped ones.
Be aware of public wading pools with missing or broken drain covers. Small children have direct access to the bottom drain in wading pools and sitting on open drains can cause serious internal organ damage.
Remember, teaching your child how to swim DOES NOT mean your child is safe in water. Most young children who drown in swimming pools were last seen in the home, had only been missing from sight for a matter of minutes, and were in the care of one or both parents at the time. There is no substitute for active adult supervision to prevent drowning.

Safety Tips for Social-Networking sites

Social networking sites have opened a fun new world for internet users. Sites like Facebook, My Space and Twitter have allowed people to stay in touch with friends and family, reconnect with old friends and even conduct business from there pages. However, these sites are also a perfect opportunity for criminals to get personal information about you and your children. Remember, what you put on the Internet STAYS on the internet, FOREVER. All of the personal information that is being posted on profiles — names, birth dates, kids’ names, photographs, pet’s names, addresses, opinions on your company, your friends and your acquaintances — all of it serves as a one-stop shop for thieves. The Nassau County Police Department would like our citizens to remember the following safety tips for social networking websites.
1. Don’t accept friend requests unless you absolutely know who they are from and that you would associate with them in person, just like real friends.
2. Be cautious about the personal information that you post on any social media site, as there is every chance in the world that it will spread beyond your original submission.
3. Assume that everything you put on a social-networking site is permanent. Even if you can delete your account, anyone on the Internet can easily print photos or text or save images and videos to a computer,
4. Learn how to adjust your privacy settings so that you know who can see your personal information.
5. Never post that you are on vacation or away from home, even if it is just for a few hours.
6. Don’t post or upload photos while away from your house, wait until you are back home before you post.
7. The old adage “some things are better left unsaid” holds true for social networks. Avoid making derogatory or insensitive remarks about others.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Not My Child

Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice and the Nassau County Police Department are working together to fight heroin using a "three-pronged approach" developed by Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano. The first prong is a program called Operation Heroin Abuse Location and Targeting, or HALT, which directs county money to police and the district attorney's office to combat heroin use. The second is an advertising campaign promoting awareness, and the third consists of educational outreach in schools and communities.

That means teens stand a better shot of avoiding a lifelong struggle with the drug if they are educated before they are offered it for the first time. Since heroin is cheaper than a pack of cigarettes or a six-pack of beer, it can easily gain a stranglehold on a teenager.

Rice stresses that parents cannot simply hope their children will not become heroin addicts. "I don't think a lot of parents want to keep their heads in the sand when it's a matter of life or death," she said.

To inform teens and parents about heroin's dangers, Rice and members of her staff have gone to schools around the county presenting a program called Not My Child, which aims to educate families about the rise of heroin abuse since 2008. Rice stresses that public awareness is what will truly put an end to the heroin problem.

In March, Mangano advanced the county's educational efforts, announcing that a program called the Too Good for Drugs Program would be implemented in several schools around the county.

Unlike Not My Child, which is a one-time presentation, Too Good For Drugs is a school-based prevention initiative for students in kindergarten through 12th grade with separate, age-appropriate curricula for each grade.

"Just as you cannot spend your way out of deficit, we have learned you cannot arrest your way out of a heroin epidemic," Mangano said. "Education is one of the best ways to prevent our children from heading down a very dangerous path."

The Nassau County District Attorney has recognized that the County is suffering from a heroin problem of epidemic proportions. In "Not My Child," a 45-minute slideshow presentation, her staff presents stories of heroin addiction and discusses signs of addiction and ways to try and combat the problem. The presentation includes a statistical comparison of heroin deaths to other crime related fatalities to illustrate how significant a problem this is in our communities. There is also a discussion of recent heroin investigations and their impact on our neighborhoods. This piece is designed to inform parents and educators that no child is immune from this growing problem, that it is difficult to spot in its early stages, that EVERY community can suffer from its effects and that we must all partner to tackle this deadly issue. This presentation compliments the presentations of both the police department and treatment facilities.
According to Assistant District Attorney Theresa Corrigan, who travels to high schools presenting Not My Child, it could already be too late for some students by the time the program reaches their communities. "Fourteen- to 18-year-olds are almost overtaking our rehab centers," Corrigan said. Even if parents become aware of their teens' addictions, she added, simply getting them into rehab is likely not enough. Many heroin addicts enrolled in rehab will relapse upon leaving the facility.

"The addicted has to be in the frame of mind to want to beat this," Corrigan said. Even when they commit to beating their addictions, they will potentially rely on methadone for the rest of their lives. Taking on a heroin addiction is a lifelong battle, and that is something Rice, Corrigan and Mangano hope to teach teens and parents before it's too late.

For information on how to schedule a presentation, please email Teresa.Corrigan@nassauda.org or call 516-571-3707.

Western Nassau Water

Plants to Be Installed in Elmont and Franklin Square
The Western Nassau Water Authority adopted its Operating Plan and Capital Plan for the 2010-2011 fiscal year at its most recent Board of Directors Meeting. Among the contents of the Capital plan included the construction of two iron removal plants in Elmont and Franklin Square.

The Water Authority’s operating revenues for the next fiscal year will total $11,896,140. The projected revenues in the plan will require an increase of $850,000 (7.24 percent) to cover costs of new financing. Its total expense forecast, according to the operating plan, is $3,803,920 which goes towards wages. Seventy-four percent ($3,048,180) is charged to the Operation and Maintenance Expense.

The Capital Plan’s monetary total was adopted at $8,228,375. The installation of new iron removal plants in Elmont water wells 28A and 28B are due to high iron concentration levels in the water. This drew the ire of residents and they’ve requested immediate action. The plan to address iron removal also includes the replacement of 8,300 feet of 8-inch water main, 18 hydrants and 210 water services in the areas of Lorraine Drive and Ferngate Drive and continued flushing activities in Franklin Square.

High iron levels in water lead to discolored water issues that affect residents, such as stained clothes and discoloration of plumbing fixtures. Residents and business owners noted this during the water quality hearing that took place on May 17.

According to documents pertaining to the iron issues, iron in the water from Well 28A is sequestered before it’s pumped into the distribution system. However, Well 28B has not been in use since the iron levels exceed levels that can be sequestered. The estimated cost of the Elmont wells is estimated at $500,000.

The Water Authority will be installing another iron filtration plant near Well 30 in Franklin Square. According to the capital plan, that well has high iron levels because of the aquifer in where it’s located. The cost to build the plant at Well 30 is estimated at $400,000.

The Water Authority stated that Well 30 is sequestered just like Well 28A in Elmont. The sequestering agent combines with the iron in the water to prevent discoloration of the water. Yet, it’s still coming up murky and sometimes black.

High iron levels can also add a metallic taste to the water. This mirrors the statement of Elmont resident Mimi Pierre-Johnson on May 17.

Senator Craig Johnson (D-Port Washington) held the hearing to address the water quality concerns in western Nassau. The Water Authority said Elmont’s water has high iron content, but is safe to drink. According to Water Authority Superintendent Michael Tierney, the two plants are the first step in iron filtration.

“This plant that we’re submitting to the board for their consideration; we have a number of things in regard to the water quality in Franklin Square [and Elmont],” Tierney said. “Those are the bigger projects. We recently replaced an extensive piece of a [water] main in Franklin Square off Swale Road. We anticipate in continuing the process. Not only in replacing distribution mains, but installing removal plants as well.”

Tierney said that it’s an issue the Water Authority is addressing but that it’s not going to happen overnight. He said it’s going to take time. Tierney iterated that the board does not want to leave any stones unturned in wake of the recent concerns of Nassau residents.

“The distribution mains are old and there’s a lot of iron buildup on the south shore,” he said. “We are presently researching and reaching out to consultant groups to have them design and construct these [iron filtration] plants.”

Franklin Square resident Marissa Gregorio addressed the board during public session and stated her issues and concerns of the water. With her 6-month-old baby girl in her arms, Gregorio stated that, “If I would’ve known this [about the water], I never would’ve bought the house.”

Gregorio said she can barely bathe her children in the water because of its dark brown color from time to time and that it’s becoming more frequent. She wants something done immediately. The board assured her that they’re doing everything possible to address the issue. “My bottom line question is ‘When are we going to have clean water?’” “That’s my main concern,” she said.

Water Authority President John E. Ryan said that he’d rather give a fixed date as to when the project will yield results, but would not want to mislead anyone because, as Tierney said, these things take time.

“This is naturally occurring iron in the ground,” Ryan said. “We’re going to try everything we can but I would not want to tell you by whatever date that you’ll have clean water because that wouldn’t be fair. We’re doing the best we can.”

Tierney said the Water Authority has met with the Department of Health to approve the plants. He said this is where the outside consultants come into play, “to actually design the plants. The Department of Health is behind us. We have to get bids together, put them out and start our bids within this year’s capital plan. Our hope is to have this done this year and I believe we will.”

Ryan commented on the water quality hearing by Senator Johnson and stated that the treatment of Chief Engineer Robert Swartz was unfair and that, “he was asked things that were not part of his job.”

During the May 17 hearing, there were a number of informational requests made by Senator Johnson toward the Water Authority and Ryan said that they’d comply as soon as Johnson sends the request. Tierney stated that there have been no requests made by Senator Johnson as of yet.

“We have not heard anything back,” he said.

Pool Safety

Hempstead "Sounds the Alarm" for Pool Safety
June 21, 2010

Before the summer solstice marks the official start to the 2010 summer season on June 21, three Long Island children have already drowned in homeowner swimming pools. In the wake of these recent tragedies, Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray has partnered with Cablevision and King Kullen to promote pool safety and help prevent accidental drownings. The group has commenced a media campaign and will disseminate a brochure to all town residents on the subject of swimming pool alarms and pool safety.

"Each summer, children tragically drown in homeowner swimming pools," Murray said. "To prevent more devastating pool accidents from occurring this summer, we're working hard to educate pool owners, parents and grandparents of children who may swim in neighborhood pools. There are positive and important safeguards and practices that we can undertake to protect our kids."

To safeguard children from the hazards associated with swimming pools, Murray passed legislation in 2008 requiring all pools in the town to be alarmed. Under Murray's pool alarm law, all homeowner swimming pools located in unincorporated areas of the town must have an alarm capable of detecting a child entering the water. A poolside alarm must emit an 85-decibel alert and a remote device must be located at a second site in the home. The town's law is more stringent and comprehensive than current New York State law, which mandates pool alarms only for pools built or significantly altered after December 14, 2006.

"A pool without an alarm is an invitation for disaster," Murray said. "This law is helping to save countless young lives."

Along with a campaign to raise awareness of the town's pool alarm requirements, Cablevision will air a public service announcement and Murray is promoting pool safety with informational brochures and mailings. The pool safety guide mailed to all residents discusses pool alarm requirements and the benefits of using the safety device. Additionally, the brochure discusses a host of pool safety tips, including the following issues:

-Never leave a child alone or out of sight at a pool
-If a child is missing, check the pool first
-Secure or remove steps on above ground pools when not in use
-Never use a pool with a broken or missing drain cover
-Keep emergency rescue equipment and emergency phone numbers by the pool
-A rope float line should be placed across the pool, alerting swimmers of the separation of the deep end from the shallow end
-All pools must be permitted by the local town/jurisdiction and are required to have physical barriers surrounding them (many other safety restrictions also apply)

"Pool alarms and other safety measures are important safeguards against accidental drowning," stated Murray. "However, there is no substitute for vigilant adult supervision around the pool."

Teaching children to swim is also an important component in preventing accidental drowning. Each summer, the Town of the Hempstead teaches thousands of kids how to swim at various locations throughout the township.

"Every parent, grandparent and friend to a child should be aware of life saving pool safety information," Supervisor Murray concluded. "You can protect your loved ones and enjoy a safe summer in and around your pool."

Monday, June 21, 2010

Knights of Columbus

Joe Camolli
Grand Knight
Twelve Apostles Council #5001


In 1882 a priest named Father Michael J. McGivney gathered a small group of Catholic men together in St. Mary's Church in New Haven, Ct.. That group formed a fraternal benefits society to provide insurance for the widows of it's members while offering fellowship among Catholic men. That Group became known as the Knights of Columbus. Today the Knights of Columbus has grown to more than 1.7 milloin members located in over 14,000 councils throughout the world. Each year members of this organization donate more than 64 million volunteer hours and over $145 million dollars to charitable and church causes. The Knights of Columbus Councils provide a wide variety of opportunities for members and their families that are enjoyable and that benefit not only the Church but the community as a whole. We are practicing Catholic men who come together to support our church and parish community.Won't you join us?
If you are interested in membership please contact Twelve Apostles Council , P.O.Box 595 , Franklin Square NY 11010, or call St. Catherine of Sienna RCC parish office at 516-352-0146 to leave a message and we will get back to you.

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

LIPA Critical Care Program

As we prepare for hurricane season and the assorted storms that come with summer, the Long Island Power Authority is urging customers with special medical needs to sign up for LIPA’s Critical Care Program in the event of a loss of power.

Customers enrolled in the program will receive advanced notice of scheduled outages or sever weather that could interrupt service. In addition, every effort will be made to restore power to customers enrolled in the program as soon as possible should there be an outage. However, in the event timely restoration is difficult, customers should have a backup plan ready.

Customers wishing to enroll in the Critical Care Program must provide LIPA with a medical certificate from a doctor or a Board of Health.

Devices which meet the criteria of “life-support equipment” include:

§ Apnea Monitor
§ Curraise Respirator
§ Positive Pressure Respirator
§ Suction Machine
§ IV Feeding Machine
§ Tank Type Respirator
§ Respirator/Ventilator
§ Hemodialysis Machine
§ Rocking Bed Respirator
§ Oxygen Concentrator
§ IV Medical Infusion Machine
§ Additional devices may qualify as life-support equipment if certified by a physician.

For additional information, please visit LIPA’s Critical Care Program website at http://www.lipower.org/residential/custserv/services-care.html or call 1-800-490-0025.

Best,

Deputy Presiding Officer John J. Ciotti
Legislator, District 3

Friday, June 11, 2010

Hoop It Up With Hempstead and Hofstra

Elementary and middle school age youngsters can sharpen their basketball skills this summer by teaming up with Hempstead Town and Hofstra University for a series of FREE instructional clinics. Players and coaches from both the men's and women's teams at Hofstra will work with town youngsters to improve shooting, dribbling and passing techniques. Supervisor Kate Murray will welcome the Hofstra "hoopsters" to six town parks for upcoming July clinics.

The upcoming clinic schedule is as follows:

Tuesday, July 6 - Newbridge Road Park, Bellmore at 2 p.m.
Monday, July 12 - Harold Walker Park, Lakeview at 1 p.m.
Thursday, July 15 - Coes Neck Park, Baldwin at 1 p.m.
Monday, July 19 - Averill Blvd. Park, Elmont at 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 22 - East Village Green, Levittown at 1 p.m.
Monday, July 26 - Smith Street Park, Uniondale at 1:30 p.m.

Clinics are free but pre-registration is suggested by calling (516) 292-9000, ext. 245. Each clinic is open to boys and girls, and youngsters will be grouped according to skill levels. Clinics are approximately one hour in length. Participants will have the opportunity to win prizes on site, including t-shirts and gift certificates. Youngsters may bring their own basketballs if they desire.

"To a wealth of summer recreational programming, Hempstead Town proudly adds a series of basketball clincs with the talented athletes at Hofstra University," commented Supervisor Kate Murray. "This is a wonderful opportunity for youngsters to learn from top flight NCAA players who play for traditionally strong collegiate programs. We take great "Pride" in our new partnership with Hofstra University athletics.

Friday, June 4, 2010

Girl Scouts of Nassau County to Host Community Forum on Bullying

Girl Scouts of Nassau County is inviting community members, parents, volunteers and policy makers to discuss bullying, cyberbullying and peer to peer violence. The council says, "It's time for us to stand up, stand strong, and stand together. Our children have the right to be safe."

Guest panelists will include:
P.O. John Dockwell, Nassau County Police Department
NYS Senator Hannon's Representitive
Jessice Klein, Ph.D., Adelphi University
Donna Ceravelo President and CEO of the Girl Scouts of Nassau County.

This meeting will be held:
Monday, June 14, 2010
7:00 -9:00
at Girl Scouts of Nassau County 110 Ring Road West, Garden City.
rsvp Carol Aksak, Critical Issues Coordinator, 516 741-2550 or email aksakc@gsnc.org

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Summer Swim Lesson Registration Information

Summer swim lessons are held at many town pools for residents six years of age and older as of 12/1/10. Skilled instruction will be offered on the following levels:

Guppies - Water Orientation (ages 4 & 5)
Level 2 - Fundamental Aquatic Skills
Level 3 - Stroke Development
Level 4 - Stroke Improvement
Level 5 - Stroke Refinement
Level 6 - Advanced Strokes & Skills
Guard Start (Ages 11-14)
Lifeguard Training (Ages 15 & up)


A parent or guardian must accompany any child younger than 10 years of age to registration and all classes. Lifeguard Training participants must be 15 years of age and Guard Start participants must be 11 to 14 years of age. Classes meet twice a week. Participants must hold a pool membership or they will be required to pay the daily admission rate. Proof of age and residency are required at registration. Swim classes must have a minimum of six people.

The Guppies program is open to youngsters who are 4 and 5 years of age. Parental participation is required at all Guppies classes. You may register a child for the Guppies program at a participating pool on the first day of class. You do not have to go to the General Registration for the Guppies program. Proof of age and residency is required at registration. Contact the individual pools for all scheduling information. Guppies classes begin Friday, July 9 or Saturday, July 10.

Town of Hempstead Parks
Averill Blvd. Park, Elmont; Echo Park Pool, West Hempstead; Forest City Park, Wantagh; Walker Memorial Park, Lakeview; Hewlett Point Park, Bay Park; Levittown Pools, Levittown/Hicksville; Newbridge Road Park, Bellmore; Oceanside Park, Oceanside; Rath Park, Franklin Square; Roosevelt Pool, Roosevelt; Town Park at Malibu, Lido Beach and Veterans Memorial Park, East Meadow

Registration: First Session: Wednesday, June 16 at 6:30 p.m. Second Session: Friday, July 23 at 8 a.m.
Season pass holders may pre-register for the first session only at pool offices from June 5 to June 15.
Pool Office hours are:
Saturdays and Sundays, June 5 & 6 and June 12 & 13 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.);
Monday thru Friday, June 7 to 11 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and
Monday, June 14 and Tuesday,
June 15 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
Fee: Adult - $46.50 ($23.50 discounted fee)
Children - No fee for Guppies,Levels 2 and 3;
$42.50 for Levels 4, 5, 6 & Guard Start)

St Vincent De Paul Car Show

Sunday, June 13
Fun in the Sun Car Show/Vendor Fair
Presented by St. Vincent De Paul Holy Name Society together with he Greater NY Region Antique Automobile Club of America from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Vincent De Paul, 1500 DePaul St., Elmont. No classes, no judging. All vehicles welcome. Antiques, classics, customs, tuners, rods, trucks, motorcycles. Park with friends. Make new friends. Enjoy the show. Food, raffles, 50/50, vendor and craft area. Show cars register at the gate for $5. Gate opens at 9 a.m. Dash Plaque for the first 100 cars. Spectators free. Rain date June 20. Vendors wanted. 10 x 10 space is $25. For vendor information call Rich 488-4553.