Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Free I.D. Cards for Seniors

Supervisor Murray, Town Clerk Announce Free I.D. Cards for Senior Citizens


Taking a page from the very successful Town of Hempstead Child Identification Program, Supervisor Kate Murray and Town Clerk Mark Bonilla today announced that the town has begun offering free identification cards for senior citizens. The town introduced the program before 75 residents at the Wantagh Senior Center.

"These ID cards come not only with a person's name, description and photograph, but with detailed information on their allergies, doctor's contact data, family telephone numbers and other vital information, which can be very useful in the event of an emergency," said Murray. "We have seen great results from our Child Identification Program and we are hoping for the same for our seniors."

While many seniors are certainly enjoying their golden years here in the Town of Hempstead, several of them have physical ailments that can potentially put them at risk in certain situations. In an emergency, a town Senior I.D. card may help medical technicians to quickly determine how to treat a particular person, given their allergies and other related information.

This card can also be used for everyday activities: Heading to the movies? Doing some shopping? Show your Town of Hempstead Senior I.D. Card and take advantage of great discounts available to seniors.

So how can you get one?

For seniors who wish to participate in the program, the Town Clerk's office will provide them with easy-to-read information forms. The data is then immediately transferred onto small, wallet-sized identification cards and a larger 8" by 8" document that may be displayed on the senior's refrigerator door. The town is providing this service for free, and no records are kept by the town once an I.D. card has been created.

One of the great benefits of this program is that seniors no longer have to wait on long, slow-moving lines somewhere to get an identification card. Town Clerk staff will travel to libraries, senior centers and senior clubs to provide this service on location. It takes just a few minutes to create a Senior I.D. Card that will provide years of benefits for seniors.

"We encourage our seniors in the Town of Hempstead to take advantage of this great program," said Bonilla. "It's fast, it's simple and best of all, it's free!"

Supervisor Murray would like to thank Town Clerk Mark Bonilla, Department of Senior Enrichment Commissioner Johanna Scarlata, and the staff at the Wantagh Senior Center for their assistance in organizing today's event.

"What's more convenient than having your personal information, physicians' contacts and emergency numbers all in the palm of your hand?" said Murray. "We in the town are happy to provide this free service for our seniors."

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

See Something, Say Something

Nassau In State Of Heightened Awareness


Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Acting Police Commissioner Tom Krumpter held a news conference today to discuss the state of heightened awareness here in Nassau County. As a direct result of the terror threat, the NCPD has stepped up its uniformed and plain clothes patrols, especially at our train stations and shopping malls.

“Our police department is a leader in the Secure Cities Program which coordinates all law enforcement in the Metro area,” said County Executive Mangano. “As the 10th Anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attack on our nation approaches, all should know that the Nassau County Police Department has been preparing to secure our County for many weeks.”

Residents can do their part by participating in the See Something, Say Something Campaign. For example: you know your neighbors, you know the vehicles that belong on your block and in your area, if you see something suspicious, say something! If you notice any individuals who appear suspicious, such as being overdressed for the weather or hiding something under their clothes, say something! If you see unattended packages or notice strange odors, say something! If you see someone suspicious drawing diagrams or maps, using binoculars, night vision devices or taking photographs and videos in unusual places, say something!

“I cannot stress this enough,” said County Executive Mangano. “Help us, help you. If you see something, say something by calling 911.”

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

IMPACT

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano, District Attorney Kathleen Rice and Acting Nassau County Police Department Commissioner Thomas Krumpter announced today (June 23rd) the results of Operation IMPACT and the Criminal Intelligence Rapid Response Teams (CIRRT) initiative. Over a two month time period, law enforcement agencies throughout Nassau County utilized Operation IMPACT and forfeiture funds to conduct a Gun Buy Back Program, a week long warrant sweep and a DNA collection that resulted in 87 guns, 100 warrant arrests and 125 DNA samples in addition to arrest of 201 individuals, the generation of 164 case reports, the issuance of 547 tickets, the issuance of 106 appearance tickets, 388 field interviews and three gun arrests.


“Utilizing both state grant funds and asset forfeiture funds our officers have made one of the safest counties in the nation even safer,” said County Executive Mangano. “Using intelligence led policing in conjunction with partnerships among our law enforcement agencies we can and have made a tremendous difference in the quality of life enjoyed by our residents.”

“The streets of Nassau County are safer today because our law enforcement agencies are committed to not just being tough on crime, but smart on crime as well,” said District Attorney Kathleen Rice. “By getting guns out of our neighborhoods, collecting more DNA samples, and arresting dangerous criminals, we are taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of every community.”

Operation IMPACT is an intelligence-led enforcement initiative aimed at combatting gangs, guns and violence. This is the 7th year that Nassau County has participated in the program. Funding for these initiatives were supplied by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services under Operation IMPACT and when needed Nassau County Police Department asset forfeiture funds were utilized. Operation IMPACT supports strategic crime-fighting and violence reduction initiatives in the 17 counties outside of New York City that account for 80 percent of the crime upstate and on Long Island. Key principles of Operation IMPACT include information sharing and partnerships among law enforcement agencies, intelligence-based policing, timely use of accurate crime data and involvement of community organizations.

"Through the effective utilization of IMPACT grant funding and asset forfeiture funds, and with the assistance of our law enforcement partners, the Department continues to drive serious crime to its lowest level in decades,” said Acting Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter. “Initiatives such as CIRRT leverage our adoption of an Intelligence Led Policing philosophy. The results of our latest collaboration with other law enforcement agencies are illustrative of the benefits of continuing to further such relationships. The membership of this Department and our partners have once again served the residents of Nassau well in our endeavors to keep our citizens safe.”

Mangano Announces 2011 Nassau County Executive Cup

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced today that on July 23, 2011 Nassau will be hosting the County’s top high school and adult soccer players to participate in the First Annual Nassau County Executive Cup, which will be held at Mitchel Athletic Complex.

The finest high school boys’ soccer players from around Nassau County will showcase their talents in front of college coaches from the tri-state area. This event will provide high school athletes the opportunity to compete with the best in the county.

This night is essentially a showcase of the stars. Beginning at 4:45 p.m., 40 Nassau County High School athletes will be competing in the College Showcase Event. These 40 athletes have endured 3 rigorous tryouts that attracted 162 athletes, to be named one of Nassau County Executive Cup participants.

“Nassau County has some tremendous athletes,” said County Executive Mangano. “I am very proud of these young competitors as they are a true representation of the wonderful athletic programs Nassau County enjoys today. These young stars will have the opportunity to showcase their abilities in front of a myriad of college coaches invited from all over the tri-state area, as they continue their pursuit of playing soccer at the collegiate level.”

Following the high school showcase, Long Island’s own professional soccer club, The Long Island Rough Riders will play a match against the 2011ENYSSA Manning Cup Champions, The Mineola Portuguese Soccer Club. The Mineola Portuguese Soccer Club was the 2009 & 2010 Long Island Football League Champions as well as a 2009 Eastern New York State Cup finalist. The Long Island Rough Riders were victorious in the 1995 & 2002 United Soccer League Championship. These two powerhouses will square off at 7:15 p.m., during which the fans and young stars will get an opportunity to view our current stars play for the Executive Cup’s Trophy. These established men are tremendous soccer players, and will provide an entertaining atmosphere for people of all ages.

With over 3.5 billion fans and thousands of professional clubs spanning the globe, soccer reigns supreme as the world’s most popular sport. While other sports may seem more popular in the US, no other game rivals the excitement, patronage, and competitive spirit that soccer fans enjoy.

“Due to soccer’s close relationship with our beloved Nassau County, I am proud to announce that we will be holding the 1st annual Executive Cup Showcase on Saturday, July 23rd, displaying the absolute best soccer talent in Nassau County! This free event will be held at the Mitchel Athletic Complex (Stadium Turf Field), with gates opening at 3:30 p.m.,” said Mangano.

The 1st Annual Nassau County Executive Cup is organized and executed by and GO Sports, university placement specialists for student-athletes. For more information, please visit www.andGOSports.com. We ask for your support and assistance in making this event a success today and in future years to come.

The 49-acre Mitchel Athletic Complex centrally located just west of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, hosts a variety of local high school and collegiate athletic events, as well as local sports leagues annually. The facility includes a track and field stadium (nine lanes) with an oval containing a synthetic field suitable for football, soccer and lacrosse.

Know the Signs

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.

We would like to remind residents to dial 911 at the first sign of a medical emergency,”  “In addition, we'd 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

Bullying Hotline

In an effort to end cyber-bullying on Long Island, Verizon and Senator Kemp Hannon are partnering with Children Abuse Prevention Services (CAPS), Long Island's leading non-profit dedicated to the prevention of bullying, child abuse and the promotion of Internet safety.

Verizon Director of Government and External Affairs Patrick A. Lespinasse recently visited CAPS to present Executive Director Alane Fagin with funding to assist the organization’s Internet safety initiatives, including the new Bullying Prevention Center. “As a leader in building technologies that deliver Long Islanders a rich array of new digital experiences, Verizon feels a strong responsibility to help ensure a safer Internet,” Lespinasse said. “Our partnership with CAPS has resulted in increased awareness and education for parents and children around staying safe and behaving responsibly online.”

The Center works to combat bullying, cyber-bullying and harassment through educational empowerment, dynamic prevention programs and innovative intervention solutions and services. “When parents discover their child is involved in a bullying situation, many may feel at a loss as to how to protect them, or assume the problem will go away on its own,” said Fagin. “But without appropriate intervention, bullying can interfere with a child’s ability to learn and can cause serious social and emotional problems,” Fagin continued.

Until the CAPS Bully Prevention Center opened this fall, Long Island parents had no single source to turn to for help. Now parents have access to a free “Bully Helpline” by calling 516-621-0552 x109 or e-mailing bullyhelpline@capsli.org to speak with an expert. CAP’s service is unique in that it is the first to offer direct support and resources toward resolving bullying and cyber-bullying situations among school-age kids, and creating safer learning environments in Long Island elementary, middle and high schools.

POP Officers Reassigned

As you might have read in this weeks Newsday, all POP Units of the Nassau County Police Department have been severely cut. Officers have been reassigned to other positions in the Department.

It has been a humbling experience to have worked with the Officers of the 5th Precinct POP Unit. POP stands for Problem Oriented Policing. The 5th Precinct POP Unit consisted of 4 officers and one supervisor who handle quality of life issues and work very closely with the schools and community. The Unit is now down to one officer and one Supervisor.

I didn’t realize the scope of their jobs until I began working with them to produce this Blog as a tool to increase communication with the schools and community.

Our POP Unit Officers care for the students they encounter. As parents themselves they bring a genuine concern for the youth of our area.

Our officers have direct contact with the Superintendent’s and Principal’s of each school, in each School District, often exchanging cell phone numbers to be available on a minutes notice. When any need would arise for a student to be helped, these officers are known to diffuse the situation with a personal response to help the student and advisor for the best possible outcome.

Our officers attend many community meetings and sometimes became members of our local community organizations themselves such as Sgt. Grimm who is a Board Member of the Gateway Youth Outreach. He helped to start a program to help children everyday afterschool to study, tutor and help with homework. Other officers have joined the Valley Stream Youth Council and Envision Valley Stream a grassroots effort started by young adults living in Valley Stream. Helping to keep us informed of local Police Activity, officers also provided a voice for our concerns reporting it back to the precinct commander for further evaluation.

They lecture and educate our students and PTA’s. Speak at Civic Meetings, to local business and church groups.

Our officers present Scouting Awards to the local youth whose hard work and efforts have earned them the Highest Awards in Scouting the Girl Scout Gold Award and Boy Scout Eagle Award. They encourage the scouts to be a vital part of the fabric of our community.

Our Officers provide Prom Enforcement ensuring all limo drivers have and enforce a no alcohol or drug policy in their vehicles.

Our Fifth Precinct POP Unit also leads a NCPD Explorers Group. Exploring is an education and experience based program designed to help young people develop into mature, caring and responsible adults. With the guidance of the POP Advisors, area youth are mentored in life skills and are given the opportunity to participate in numerous law enforcement experiences and training sessions. The explorers are routinely involved in competitions that take place at venues throughout the country and that test their skills against other Law Enforcement Explorers. Local competitions are held with such groups as the New York City’s Explorers and US Customs.

Exploring helps foster positive relationships among the Police Department, its officers and local youth. It builds an avenue for public/ private partnerships that provides a means to support our mission to protect and serve. As individuals, the youth involved give back to their community by completing hundreds of hours of community service each year. They become role models for their peers and friends and serve as catalysts for positive police relations in our communities.

In this ever-competitive world in which our children find it increasingly difficult to gain acceptance to the college or university of their choice, having the experience of Exploring on their resumes may very well be the unique qualification to help them gain entrance into their college of choice.

Our Officers work closely with the Social Service Department, visiting the homeless and making sure they are cared for by providing a place to go, food or money sometimes out of their own pocket.

Our Officers run Project 21 which visits local establishments who sell alcohol and tobacco and make sure they are not selling to any one under 21. Our officers have established relationships with Consumer Affairs Department, Town of Hempstead Building Dept., Valley Stream Code Enforcement, Probation and Parole Dept., to help clean up establishments that are selling cigerettes or alcohol to minors or known drug houses.

Our officers work with NCPD Crossing Guards to oversee the creation of future crossings and provide back up for Guards who need their support.

They are a fine group of officers whose passion, courage and dedication has served our community in so many ways for many years. I truly wish them all well. Their service to Nassau County Fifth Precinct is priceless.

Governor Cuomo Signs Law Strengthening Enforcement Against Drivers Caught Using Handheld Electronic Devices

New Legislation Makes Using Handheld Electronic Devices while Driving a Primary Traffic Offense; Additional Regulation will Increase Penalty from 2 Points to 3 Points for Cell Phone and Electronic Device Usage While Driving
Albany, NY (July 12, 2011)

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today signed a new law that strengthens the enforcement against drivers who use handheld electronic devices for activities such as texting while a vehicle is in motion. The legislation makes this action a primary traffic offense, giving law enforcement the power to stop drivers solely for engaging in this activity.

The Governor also announced today that he will increase the penalty for using a cellular phone without a hands-free device or a handheld device while driving from two to three points through changes in state regulations.

"I am proud to sign this bill today, both as the Governor and as a father of three teenagers," Governor Cuomo said. "It's plain and simple: distracted driving leads to tragedies that have affected families all across New York. This new law will help ensure that drivers keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. I thank Senator Marcellino and Assemblyman Weisenberg for their hard work on this legislation."

Before this law, it was illegal for drivers to use handheld electronic devices while their vehicle was in motion, but it was a secondary traffic offense -- meaning a driver had to be stopped for another violation in order to receive a ticket.

The new law makes it a primary traffic offense and it will go into effect immediately. The monetary penalty for a violation of this law continues to be a fine of up to $150.

Illegal activity includes holding an electronic device and:

Composing, sending, reading, accessing, browsing, transmitting, saving, or retrieving electronic data such as e-mail, text messages, or webpages

Viewing, taking, or transmitting images

Playing games

The law does not penalize drivers using a handheld electronic device that is affixed to a surface or using a GPS device that is attached to the vehicle. The law also exempts police officers, fire fighters, or emergency vehicle drivers while they are performing their duties. In addition, a driver is exempt from the law if the driver is communicating or attempting to communicate with law enforcement, the fire department, or medical personnel during an emergency situation.

New York State Senator Carl L. Marcellino said, "With this new legislation, New York State driving laws have finally caught up with today's technology. Our new law will strengthen enforcement against drivers using handheld electronic devices and help keep drivers, passengers, and pedestrians safe. I am proud to stand with Governor Cuomo as he signs the bill I sponsored into law and we finally make distracted driving a serious offense."

New York State Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg said, "As a former police officer, I've seen the devastation caused by distracted drivers. Today, we are giving law enforcement the tools they need to keep our roads safe and prevent future accidents. These changes will save lives. I'd like to thank Governor Cuomo for supporting this law and I look forward to our continued work together."

New York State Police Superintendent Joseph A. D'Amico said, "Motorists should now realize the dangers of operating a motor vehicle while texting on mobile devices or talking on a cell phone without an approved hands-free device. This change in the statute will allow law enforcement to continue the battle against distracted driving. Distracted driving is dangerous driving and drivers must reduce diversion and behaviors that take their attention from the road. Attentive, responsible, defensive driving is the key to avoiding crashes and keeping our highways safe."

New York City Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly said, "It's no secret that violations of the no-texting and no use of hand held devices while driving rules are widespread despite their nexus to accidents, including fatalities. This legislation is a welcome step toward saving lives."

President of AAA New York State Thomas Hoy said, "With nearly 2 trillion text messages sent last year, texting represents the most dangerous form of distracted driving. We applaud the Governor and lawmakers for stiffening the consequences for those who jeopardize the rest of us with their careless conduct."

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 16% of fatal accidents in 2009 were due to distracted driving and 20% of people injured during a crash were involved in a crash where distracted driving was reported. A study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found that truck drivers who were texting were 23 times more at risk of a crash or near crash.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Envision Valley Stream

We have a lot to talk about this month. We hope to see you at our next meeting on Wednesday, June 29th at 7:30pm in the Field House at Firemen's Field (intersection of Albermarle Avenue and E. Fenimore Street).

We will be having a guest speaker from that Nassau County Planning Commission who will speak about the 2010 Draft Nassau County Master Plan. Our speaker will specifically address how Valley Stream fits into the plan and what recommendations are being made for our community. You can view a copy of the 2010 Draft Master Plan at this link. This is a rare opportunity to get to ask questions of someone from the Planning Commission.

Last but not least, please contact Envision Valley Stream if you are interested in purchasing a produce or meat share from Smyler's Farm. EVS is organizing a Valley Stream Community Supported Agriculture in which shareholders would receive organic and local produce and or meat once a week for the duration of the subscribed season. Time is running out so please contact us as soon as possible if you are interested in purchasing a half share or full share. You can take a look at your options, prices, and find example shares on their website: http://www.smylersfarm.com/options.html. We need 25 shares in order to make this work. Thank you in advance.

Sincerely,

David Sabatino
Founder
Envision Valley Stream
Phone: 516-792-1246
Web Site: www.EnvisionValleyStream.org
Facebook Page: Envision Valley Stream

Friday, June 3, 2011

Water Safety

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Acting Police Commissioner Thomas C. Krumpter 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.

Monday, May 23, 2011

Prom Night Safety Tips

COUNTY EXECUTIVE MANGANO AND ACTING POLICE COMMISSIONER KRUMPTER ISSUE PROM NIGHT SAFETY TIPS


It’s that time of year again, Prom Season. Far too often situations get out of hand on what should be an enjoyable and memorable night for high school students in Nassau County. In an effort to keep Nassau residents safe, Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Acting Police Commissioner Thomas C. Krumpter are issuing Prom Night Safety Tips for parents and teens. “I urge all residents involved in this upcoming prom season to review these tips,” said Commissioner Krumpter.

Tips for Parents:
Know and discuss the School code of conduct before the prom with your child.

Does the school code of conduct extend to off-site functions that have been approved by the school?

Know who your child is attending the prom with and discuss the events for pre and post prom parties with other parents.

Discuss the dangers of drinking and driving. New York State law mandates arrest and license revocation/suspension of any person under twenty-one driving with .02% or more Blood Alcohol Content (One Drink!)

Talk with your child about the dangers of club drugs, warning signs and who to notify for assistance.

Pre-plan and role-play answers that your child can use to get out of uncomfortable situations (e.g. offered alcohol, getting a ride from an intoxicated driver, unwanted sexual advances, etc.)

Discuss guidelines and a curfew. Discuss the consequences of violating these rules.

Discuss travel plans, use a reputable limousine service that will not allow a person to bring, serve or introduce alcohol into the vehicle.

Know who is driving to the prom and who will be a passenger. Limit the number of passengers to increase safety and reduce driver distractions.

Know the location of post prom parties and who is sponsoring them.

Talk to your teenager about the serious dangers and consequences of underage drinking and driving.

If your child’s plans change, confirm the change with the parents of other children.

Remind your child that you are there for them, if they need a ride home or to an after prom affair.

Tips for Teens:

Alcohol is illegal for persons under the age of twenty-one. Underage drinking is illegal and can result in arrest, injury, or worse.

Don’t let friends drink and drive.

Plan ahead – make sure you have a safe plan for prom night.

Discuss your plans with your friends; remind each other about responsible decision-making and confronting peer pressure.

Do not accept any drinks from someone you do not know. If you leave your drink, discard it and get a new one.

Do not leave your possessions unattended.

Learn the warning signs for alcohol poisoning and drug intoxication, contact 911 for assistance and immediate treatment.

Take extra money or have a responsible person available for transportation for a safe ride home or in case an emergency arises.

Remember to charge your cell phone and have it with you.

Know where you are and where you are going; keep your parents and friends informed.

Trust your instincts, if you feel endangered or uncomfortable, leave immediately.

Intoxication by alcohol or drugs can lead to poor judgment and dangerous situations.

Remember to contact your parents if your plans change.

Practice and discuss answers you can use to get out of uncomfortable situations.

Do not allow anyone in your car or limo that has drugs or weapons. It is dangerous and everyone in the car is at risk of getting arrested.

It is illegal to alter your drivers’ license or any other form of government identifications.

Police Initiatives:

Intensive patrol near establishments that sell alcoholic beverages.

Random License Premise checks conducted by Patrol Supervisors

Envision Valley Stream

The next general meeting of Envision Valley Stream will be on Wednesday, May 25 at 7:30pm in the Hendrickson Park Administration Building (behind Central High School). There is much to discuss at this meeting including the plans to build a casino at Belmont Racetrack in Elmont.

Envision Valley Stream's second annual Art in the Park and Boutique Craft Fair is quickly approaching. The event will take place Saturday, July 16 at the Valley Stream Village Green (60 Verona Place) from 10AM to 5PM. If you or someone you know would like to exhibit artwork or sell crafts please register at our website www.EnvisionValleyStream.org or feel free to contact me at 516-792-1246.

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Move Over Law Enforcement

“AMBROSE – SEARLES MOVE OVER ACT”
The Nassau County Police Department’s Highway Patrol Bureau will be beginning a two week enforcement detail of New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1144-a, the Ambrose – Searles Move Over Act that requires motorists to change lanes when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle. This detail will run from Sunday April 10th, 2011 through April 22, 2011.

1144-a. Operation of vehicles when approaching a parked, stopped or standing authorized emergency vehicle.

Every operator of a motor vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with an authorized emergency vehicle which is parked, stopped or standing on the shoulder or any portion of such highway and such authorized emergency vehicle is displaying one or more red or combination red and white lights pursuant to the provisions of paragraph two of subdivision forty-one of section three hundred seventy-five of this chapter. For operators of motor vehicles on parkways or controlled access highways, such due care shall include, but not be limited to, moving from a lane which contains or is immediately adjacent to the shoulder where such authorized emergency vehicle displaying one or more red or combination red and white lights pursuant to the provisions of paragraph two of subdivision forty-one of section three hundred seventy-five of this chapter is parked, stopped or standing to another lane, provided that such movement otherwise complies with the requirements of this chapter including, but not limited to, the provisions of sections eleven hundred ten of this title and eleven hundred twenty-eight of this title.

Authorized emergency vehicle. Every ambulance, police vehicle, fire vehicle, civil emergency vehicle, emergency ambulance service vehicle, environmental response vehicle, sanitation patrol vehicle, hazardous materials vehicle, and ordnance disposal vehicle of the armed services of the United States.

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Safety Tips for Safeguarding Your Property

Here are a few tips regarding the ongoing problem we have seen regarding the theft and robberies of I- Pods and cell phones. This crime has been on the rise and is becoming a growing concern.


Here are a few safety tips in safeguarding your property and more importantly yourself:
· When walking try not to have your earphones in. This is a hazard walking across the street since car horns and sirens cannot be heard. This is also an obvious sign that you are in possession of an electronic device. This makes you more vulnerable as a target since you cannot hear someone approaching.
· While talking or texting on your cell phone in public, try to keep conversations short, for this again shows you’re in possession of one and again makes you vulnerable as a target to anyone approaching. Most cell phones are priced well over 100 dollars and can easily be converted for someone else’s use making them untraceable.
· Most of these crimes are done by large groups and not one on one. So be aware of large groups. Put your I Pod or cell phone away when being approached or walking by large groups because you are advertising.
· If you are a victim please notify 911, state your location and pertinent information i.e. race, age, what they were wearing, their direction of travel, type of phone stolen.
· If physical force is used this is considered a robbery which is a felony. Please do not put yourself in a bad position, be alert, be vigilante and try to get whatever description you can.
If you would like a representative from the 5th Precinct Police Department to speak to your group or organization please call us at 573- 6570 and any POP officer would be able to assist you.
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Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Hempstead Town to Join State Department in Passport Day in the USA

Supervisor Kate Murray and Town Clerk Mark Bonilla have announced that Hempstead Town will join the State Department in celebrating “Passport Day in the USA,” providing convenient passport application services to U.S. citizens and sharing important information about travel requirements. This special passport event will be held at Hempstead Town Hall on Saturday, April 9, 2011 from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm.

“We want to make sure that everyone interested in traveling outside of the country will have the necessary documents to leave and re-enter the U.S.,” Supervisor Murray said. “Passport Day at Hempstead Town Hall will make it even easier for residents who might not be able to come to Town Hall during the work week to apply for a passport.”

U.S. citizens must present a valid passport book when entering or re-entering the United States by air. American citizens entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land borders and sea ports of entry must present a passport book, passport card, or other travel documents approved by the U.S. government.

“As it normally takes between four and six weeks for a passport application to be processed, we recommend that residents plan well in advance of their departure date to avoid a delay as the summer travel season begins,” said Town Clerk Bonilla.

In addition to hosting the Passport Day, Hempstead Town has taken numerous steps to make the process of obtaining a passport easy and convenient. The Town Clerk’s One-Stop Passport Shop provides applications and passport photo services to town residents without an appointment, weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. To make it easier for groups of travelers to obtain necessary travel documents, the Town Clerk’s Office offers a “Speedy Pass” mobile passport service that brings a mobile passport facility to organizations, teams and clubs who plan to travel abroad.

For information on how to apply for a passport book and/or a passport card, visit the town’s web site at www.TOH.LI or call the town’s One-Stop Passport Shop at (516) 812-3100 during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

“Whether you are driving to Canada, cruising to Mexico, or flying to France, you’ll need a passport for any travel adventures outside of the U.S.,” Bonilla concluded. “Be ahead of the crowd and visit the Hempstead Town Clerk’s office to get your passport in time.”

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Envision Valley Stream

The next general meeting of Envision Valley Stream will be on Tuesday, March 29 at 7:30PM in the Field House at Firemen's Field. We will be reviewing our Community Asset Map, working on a proposal for the dog parks, and discussing our progress with the welcome packet. Your attendance and input at our meetings is invaluable and very much appreciated. Thank you for the continued support.

Sincerely,

David Sabatino
Founder
Envision Valley Stream

Phone: 516-792-1246
Web Site: http://www.envisionvalleystream.org/

Monday, March 7, 2011

Peanut Butter Recall

Some 16.3-ounce plastic jars of Skippy Reduced Fat Creamy Peanut Butter Spread and Skippy Reduced Fat Super Chunk Peanut Butter Spread, which may be contaminated with salmonella have been recalled.


The organism can cause fever and abdominal problems in healthy people and serious and even fatal infections in the young, old and frail.

The jars were sent to stores in in Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wisconsin.

The affected jars have UPC numbers 048001006812 and 048001006782 and have "best if used by" dates of MAY1612LR1, MAY1712LR1, MAY1812LR1, MAY1912LR1, MAY2012LR1, and MAY2112LR1. Details: by phone at 800-453-3432.

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Highway Patrol Bureau Michael J. Califano

Nassau County Police Commissioner Lawrence W. Mulvey announces with great sadness the line of duty death of a Nassau County Police Officer. Police Officer Michael J. Califano was killed while performing a traffic stop on the Long Island Expressway on February 5, 2011. Officer Califano was assigned to the Highway Patrol Bureau and was one of Nassau’s finest. His department family mourns the loss of a fellow officer and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this very difficult time.


Donations for the family of Nassau County Police Officer Michael J. Califano who was killed in the line of duty on February 5, 2011 can be made to the Michael J. Califano Memorial Fund, c/o Nassau County P.B.A., 89 E. Jericho Tpke., Mineola, NY 11501. Officer Califano leaves behind a wife and three young boys

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Envision Valley Stream

Happy New Year! We hope the year is filled with joy and prosperity.


The next general meeting of Envision Valley Stream will be on Thursday, January 20 at 7:30PM in the Field House at Firemen's Field (intersection of E. Fenimore Street and Albermarle Avenue). We will be discussing and prioritizing our goals for 2011.

Also, with respect to Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I will be leading a discussion at the Henry Waldinger Memorial Library Children's Room on Tuesday, January 18 from 7PM to 8PM. If you have children between the ages of 8 and 12, this will be an excellent event for them. Below is information from the library regarding the event:

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birth provides an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussion about public service and civic engagement. Children ages 8-12 and parents/caregivers are invited to join us to read together an excerpt from Dr. King's speech "The Drum Major Instinct" and talk about his legacy of service and its place in our lives and our democracy. The discussion will be led by David Sabatino, founder of Envision Valley Stream. For further information contact Library Director, Ms. Eng, at 516-825-6422.

Sincerely,

David Sabatino
Founder
Envision Valley Stream
Phone: 516-792-1246
Web Site: www.EnvisionValleyStream.org
Facebook Page: Envision Valley Stream

Winter Storm Watch

A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for Nassau County from Tuesday Evening through Wednesday afternoon.


Snow should develop across the county from 8-9pm Tuesday evening. Expect snow to last through the day on Wednesday before finally coming to an end by 1-2am Thursday morning. The heaviest snow should fall from 11pm-12am Tuesday night through 10am Wednesday morning. Expect the activity to taper to scattered light snow showers or flurries for the rest of the day Wednesday and into Wednesday night. Snow accumulations of 5-10 inches are expected right now. There is potential for slightly higher snow totals if the track is just right, but this is a little uncertain at this time. Winds will be relatively light through the night on Tuesday. Winds should pick up Wednesday out of the northwest with gusts to 25-30 mph as it looks right now. As far as tidal departures, the winds should be light on the side of the storm that would pile water up along the coasts of your county. We may get maybe 1-1.5 feet above normal and this should not be enough to produce any coastal flooding.