8th Annual Solidarity Seder: A Celebration of Diversity

On Wednesday, March 28, 2007, the Anti-Defamation League celebrated its 8th Annual Solidarity Seder with over 100 guests at the Trenton War Memorial in Trenton, New Jersey. The event was truly an expression of the diversity of America as it allowed for the promotion of understanding and community from representatives of many faiths and cultures.

"When we recognize our differences,
and acknowledge our similarities,
we appreciate how rich a culture we are.
That alone is reason to celebrate
diversity in New Jersey."
From the ADL's 8th Annual Solidarity Seder Program

The Passover Seder celebrates the exodus of the Jewish people from slavery and is a universal message of liberation, hope and freedom. This year's Seder entitled "Strangers in a Strange Land: Building a Family of Immigrants" focused on stories of immigration and how an interfaith community celebrates the unique stories and journeys that create our American family. It was profoundly fitting for this event to be held at the Trenton War Memorial, a National and State Historic Site that was built as "a great community center" dedicated to the memory of American soldiers and sailors who died fighting World War I.

Prior to the Seder, Etzion Neuer, the New Jersey Regional Director of the Anti-Defamation League, spoke about the belief of the ADL,

"Injury to any one person is an injury to all."

He shared a quote from Elie Wiesel, concentration camp survivor, world renowned author, Nobel Peace Prize and Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipient:

"Indifference reduces the other to a distraction."

Mr. Neuer explained that this philosophy reduces neighbors to individuals of no consequence and he warned of the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan whose hatred is fueled by an intolerance toward immigrants.

It is my heartfelt belief that all who walk this land must heed the treasured words of Emma Lazarus inscribed on the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty:

"Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door"

Testimonials were given by various young men and women. One young man spoke about the heartbreak of seeing his mother arrested as he and his family attempted to enter the United States from Mexico. This young man went on to proudly become an American citizen and has applied to become a member of the United States Army. Another young man reminded us that there are no complaints about immigration as we enjoy the fruits and vegetables which were harvested through the labor and sweat of immigrants working on American farms.

A young woman eloquently spoke about the challenges her family and so many families experienced in coming to America after being victimized by so many regimes in Europe. And individuals from many countries shared their admiration and pride for America throughout the celebration.

During the Seder, the recital of the Haggadah with the Ha Lakhma Anya, "The Bread of Affliction," was personally inspirational. The leader lifts the plate for all to see the matzah and all participants recite:

"Ha Lakhma Anya. This is the bread of affliction which Israel ate in the land of Egypt. It is a symbol of days of slavery and pain, endured by the Jewish people for centuries. It is a symbol also of the slavery and pain of so many in the world today. It is our hope that next year we will be free, that next year all people will be free of all oppression."

Undoubtedly, the most moving moment of the Seder was the testimonial of Holocaust survivor Shelly Zeiger who spoke passionately about "The Town's Fool."

This man, lovingly referred to as Anton by Mr. Zeiger, was looked down upon as a misfit by his townspeople in Western Ukraine and considered a fool because of his seemingly obsessive respect for all life. Anton was a Catholic who would not eat meat, fish or even drink milk because in order to obtain them, a living creature would have to experience pain. Yet Anton, the "Town's Fool", became, according to Shelly, "the savior of our family." Anton risked his own life to hide Jewish neighbors in his home. He hid Shelly, his father and mother and two girls from the Nazis in the Zbrow ghetto for 27 months beginning in 1942. Shelly explained that this man Anton was truly a hero who teaches us to respect each human being, for courage can be found in the most unlikely of persons.

Afterwards, I was privileged to speak privately with Shelly Zeiger who revealed to me a mystical element of this inspiring story. Shelly stated to me that prior to possibly being arrested by the Nazis, his deceased grandmother appeared to his mother in a dream and told her to "Go to Anton."

After the war, Shelly and his family came to America. Years later, he mustered enough courage to go back to his home town in the Ukraine to find Anton. He found him and brought him to live with him and his family in America.

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From the Event Booklet

BARUCH ATA ADONAI ELOHEINU MELECH HA'OLAM SHEHECHEYANU V'KIYIMANU V'HIGIYANU LA-ZMAN HA-ZEH.

"Blessed are you, Lord our God, Ruler of the universe; you have given us life; you have kept us alive that we might live to this time."

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READ MORE

Holocaust Survivors Project	Click here to visit site
New Jersey Commission on Holocaust Education	Click here to visit site

Spotlight On: Mr. Steven Benvenisti, Esq.

Although there are many speakers, seminars, symposiums, conferences, in-service days and presentations, there are times when an individual stands out by the efficacy of words so clearly spoken from the heart.

Steven Benvenisti, an attorney at law and motivational speaker is one such individual who was able to transform an audience on Tuesday, March 27, 2007 at a monthly meeting of The North Jersey Regional Crime Prevention Officers Association at the Petrocelli College of Continuing Studies of Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, New Jersey. The event turned an ordinary day into a truly memorable experience as Steven presented "The Most Significant Case of My Entire Life."

[Reprinted from the Event Handout]

For more than 10 years, Steven Benvenisti, an award winning motivation speaker and personal injury attorney has been featured on television, radio and appeared before thousands of people to share his story of the most significant case he has ever handled. The lessons learned from this case have inspired individuals and audiences throughout America. As a result of this case, Steven Benvenisti has devoted his legal career towards representing personal injury victims, DWI victims and others including those suffering from traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries and other catastrophic injuries. Steven Benvenisti has been honored with many awards including an official proclamation by the Governor of New Jersey, a Joint Resolution of the New Jersey Senate and Assembly; and Resolutions by both The United States Senate and The U.S. House of Representatives. Steven is a member of the Teaneck, New Jersey based law firm of Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C.

During his presentation, Steven stressed the following:

• There are too many high school and college students who are victims of DWI and many are tragically fatalities. Steven's personal mission with the thousands of students he speaks to is to end DWI.
• The problem has no quick fix but the message must be clear and consistent, "Do not drink and drive."
• The Most Significant Case of My Entire Career was about a New Jersey College Student who excelled academically, socially and athletically. Yet, his world changed dramatically during a spring break fraternity brothers trip to Daytona, Florida.
  • While walking with his friends on a evening that all of them were alcohol free, this student was hit by a vehicle being driven by a driver under the influence at 50 miles per hour. The student had both of his legs crushed immediately and witnesses explained hearing a "horribly unusual exploding sound" in explaining the impact of the vehicle upon the student's body. He was thrown 70 feet away, suffered from intense bleeding and both legs were terrible disfigured. The sight was so distressing that many of the bystanders were sobbing as they watched his two friends try to assist him.
  • The police responded almost immediately, found the victim's wallet and called the victim's home. Due to the hour, his mother immediately sensed that something was seriously wrong. The family was told to stand by and await the doctor's call. Each minute the father, mother and three brothers and sisters waited seemed like an eternity.
  • When the doctor called, he explained that the son had been hit by a car, that portions of the bones in his left leg were missing, he lost a tremendous amount of blood and the brain was seriously swelling. The father asked the doctor, "What are my son's chances of living?" Hearing this had a chilling effect on the family who were listening to each of his words . The doctor explained that the young man could die within hours and received permission to use his organs should he die. The family rushed to the airport and was able to board a flight to Daytona within 90 minutes.
  • After being in a coma for 10 days, the student opened his eyes but did not recognize his parents, could not speak and had no short term memory. His legs were an orthopedic nightmare. Yet, this student eventually recovered, went on to live a life happier than ever imagined and became the inspiration for the great mission of Steven Benvenisti.

According to Steven, Madison Square Garden can be filled to capacity with the amount of people killed each year by a drunk driver. And Steven Benvenisti is on a mission to empty the arena.

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READ MORE

CDC Impaired Driving Fact Sheet	Click here to visit site
MADD	Click here to visit site
SADD	Click here to visit site
Potsdam University Alcohol Problems & Solutions	Click here to visit site
Contract for Life	Click here to visit site

In Remembrance: Marine Corporal Jason L. Dunham

On November 10, 2006, on what would have been his 25th Birthday, Marine Corporal Jason L. Dunham of Scio, New York, President George W. Bush announced that Jason would be posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. The announcement came during the dedication of the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

"Like the Marines who have come before them, this new generation has also given some of its finest men in the line of duty. One of these fine men was Jason Dunham. Jason's birthday is November the 10th, so you might say that he was born to be a Marine. And as far back as boot camp, his superiors spotted the quality that would mark this young American as an outstanding Marine: his willingness to put the needs of others before his own...

"Corporal Dunham's mom and dad are with us today on what would have been this brave young man's 25th birthday. We remember that the Marine who so freely gave his life was your beloved son. We ask a loving God to comfort you for a loss that can never be replaced. And on this special birthday, in the company of his fellow Marines, I'm proud to announce that our nation will recognize Corporal Jason Dunham's action with America's highest decoration for valor, the Medal of Honor.

"As long as we have Marines like Corporal Dunham, America will never fear for her liberty. And as long as we have this fine museum, America will never forget their sacrifice."  President George W. Bush at the Dedication of the National Museum of the Marine Corps

At a White House ceremony on January 11, 2007, Jason's mother, Debra Dunham, accepted the Medal of Honor award for Jason and "in all the servicemen and women's names."

His father, Dan Dunham, stated, "Jason believed that all men on this earth should be free."

Americans must remember and honor its heroes. With Jason's mom we must realize that all "servicemen and women" are heroes – those who have died, those who are injured, those who continue to serve to protect our freedom.

We must NEVER forget...

We must NEVER forget...

We must NEVER forget...

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"The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States. Generally presented to its recipient by the President of the United States of America in the name of Congress, it is often called the Congressional Medal of Honor."  Source Congressional Medal of Honor Society Website

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READ MORE

Jason L. Dunham Memorial Site	Click here to visit site
United States Marine Corps Corporal Jason L. Dunham Medal of Honor Site	Click here to visit site

School Bus Scandal: A Call for Vigilance

A recent New York Daily News investigative report series, using information obtained through the Freedom of Information Law, revealed distressing accounts of physical, emotional and sexual abuse on school buses in New York City.

While this appalling scandal involves the school bus program serving 142,000 New York City public and private school students, the lesson must be clear: school districts across the nation must be ever-vigilant to ensure the safety of their students on school buses to and from school.

Every school district across America should act immediately to review all school bus security and safety practices, procedures and policies. School bus drivers and monitors are integral to the development of a culture of school safety and should undergo rigorous background and Department of Motor Vehicle checks, as well as be required to obtain a comprehensive school bus safety and security certification.

In my opinion, there is another issue which demands a sense of urgency. The essence of the behavior of American youth must be openly and honestly examined from the community at large in school districts throughout the nation. This poor behavior has everything to do with the lack of character development in our nation's schools and a lack of example from all facets of society. The heart of America needs to be committed to building our future through a dedication to the proper education and development of our youth.

[Reprinted from The New York Daily News – www.nydailynews.com]

Shame of [New York] city's school buses

News investigation reveals shocking accounts
of crime, beatings and poor oversight

The Daily News Key Findings, March 19, 2007

• Nineteen complaints of students molesting other students on school buses in the presence of drivers and/or monitors. Fourteen cases are the subjects of pending lawsuits; two others are substantiated complaints from the Department of Education; two were settled lawsuits, and one family has notified the city it intends to sue.
• Two additional sexual abuse cases involving predatory drivers; a bus monitor figures in a third. Lawsuit against one driver and his employer was settled in 2004 for $1 million; a settlement in the other bus driver case has been sealed. The family of a 19-year-old woman with Down syndrome has notified the city it intends to sue for a 2006 incident involving a bus monitor.
• Fourteen substantiated complaints where students were beaten or physically abused by drivers or bus monitors in 2006; at least eight more in 2005.
• Seven additional allegations of assaults and beatings by drivers or monitors on schoolchildren - four settled lawsuits, two pending and one legal notice of an intent to sue.
• The Department of Education provided few substantiated cases of student-on-student physical violence, but the Daily News found 10 notices of intent to sue filed against the city for such incidents in 2006, and 15 more pending lawsuits or notices in the prior five years. The department said all of the incidents described in the 10 notices "were either unsubstantiated, unfounded or not in violation of rules and regulations."
• Five additional incidents where families have notified the city they intend to sue, including the student with Down syndrome. The Department of Education also has deemed these claims to be unsubstantiated, unfounded or not in violation of rules and regulations.
• At least 78 bus drivers and monitors arrested just in 2006, mostly on charges unrelated to their jobs, including three for rape and seven for drunken driving. One driver was charged with shoplifting during a school field trip.
• Last year alone, at least 35 children - many younger than 6 - dropped off at or near their homes unattended. One wandering special-needs child ended up being struck by a car and seriously injured.
• Seven instances - including four last year and one so far this year - where children between 5 and 9 were dropped off alone far from their homes, sometimes in dangerous neighborhoods.
• Eleven incidents where students - one only a 3-year-old - were left on their school buses unattended for hours, including two cases where the driver or monitor tried to bribe the victims with food in return for not telling anyone about the incident. Eight of the incidents occurred last year.

Sources: Department of Education and its Office of Pupil Transportation, civil lawsuits, notices of intent to sue, NYPD, criminal prosecution files, Special Commissioner for Investigation for the New York City School District, Daily News interviews with victims and family members.

READ MORE

New York Daily News School Bus Report Series

Click here to visit site

Bergen 200 Club: Newark Mayor Cory A. Booker Speaks

On Thursday, March 22, 2007, Newark Mayor Cory A. Booker gave a captivating address to a breakfast crowd of 200 law enforcement, emergency service, corporate and government officials at Season's Restaurant in Washington Township, New Jersey. The event was organized under the leadership of the 200 Club of Bergen County President Anthony Scardino, Jr. in collaboration with his executive board and trustees.

Mayor Booker's passion for attaining community transformation was evident in his heartfelt and stirring remarks which inspired the entire assembly:

• As a product of hope, I must honor the heroism of those who nurtured me, especially my family and the Bergen County community.
• It is important to live by hope despite moments of despair.
• America's strength is the bonds of love which are weaved into a poignant, powerful and persevering nation; a nation founded on precious ideals, as articulated in the pledge of allegiance which we recited together before breakfast, "one nation under God with liberty and justice for all."
• New Jersey's strength is the legacy of those who fought in the revolutionary war and, despite being beaten, battered and bashed by the British, persevered in the fight to win our liberty.
• Our communities must rise to the challenge of maintaining our democracy since there are individuals who threaten us. Critical to this challenge is a determined dedication to law enforcement.
• Newark law enforcement needed a critical transformation to support the crime fighting effort:
  • computer and equipment upgrades
  • facility repairs
  • hiring the right people to initiate fundamental law enforcement strategies and improvements including:
    • more cops on the street
    • a narcotics bureau
    • community policing initiatives
    • getting tough with felons who violate parole
    • gun recovery initiatives.

Undoubtedly, the most moving element of Mayor Booker's remarks was his sharing the story of a young child innocently caught in the line of gun fire. The child who received 4 gunshot wounds, was held by Cory Booker as the Mayor frantically called for help. The child died despite valiant attempts by emergency responders. While trying to wash the blood from his clothes and body, Cory Booker spoke of his own feelings of hopelessness that "too many children are dying in my city".

Mayor Booker encouraged all to live by hope and urged a re-dedication to the enduring values of our nation. He expressed his admiration for all in law enforcement and stressed the importance of their sacred professions. Every valiant act in the line of duty, whether ordinary or heroic, honors Americans and honors our flag and all that it stands for. Mayor Booker encouraged attendees to support those who wear the uniform and reminded them that all must be dedicated to justice. He concluded with the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.:

"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."

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About the 200 Club of Bergen County, NJ

"The 200 Club of Bergen County is committed to supporting - both financially and emotionally - residents of Bergen County serving as Law Enforcement, Fire and EMS personnel and their families in the event of death or serious injury in the line of duty. We also provide support in the form of scholarships and special needs appropriations to agencies that serve and protect Bergen County communities."

READ MORE

200 Club of Bergen County, NJ	Click here to visit site
City of Newark, NJ	Click here to visit site

Transforming Society: From Deception to Truthfulness

There is nothing more powerful than the splendor of truth and nothing more devastating then the darkness of deception. Sadly, American society is suffering from a culture of deception. Simply stated, lies and deceipt shatter relationships, families, companies and agencies and lead to a breakdown of trust which is so critical to society.

To highlight the pervasiveness of this culture of deception, one need only look at the recent Federal Bureau of Investigation press releases and top stories:

• Executives Indicted for Allegedly Bribing Costa Rican Officials to Obtain Contracts
• Hedge Fund Charged in the First U.S. Criminal Case for Deceptive Market Timing
• Former Head of Citibank Commodities Desk Sentenced to 15 Months for Falsely Inflating Profits up to $20 Million
• Medical Equipment Owner Sentenced to Prison on $2.2 Million Medicare Fraud Scheme
• Charges with Multimillion Dollar Investment Fraud

Indications of these deceptive elements in society are not only in these FBI headlines, but also in the press releases of U.S. Attorneys across the nation and at the highest levels of government leadership.

America must shift course from the destructive and self-centered culture of deception to the liberating and community-centered culture of truthfulness. American families, schools, companies and government agencies are in dire need of a great and necessary transformation. Our future destiny depends on our commitment to truth and justice.

"It matters enormously if I alienate anyone from the truth." — CS Lewis

Theodore Roosevelt: An Enduring Icon of Leadership

Outside the American Museum of Natural History on Central Park West in New York City is the statue of the Rough Rider, Theodore Roosevelt, who was truly a leader with remarkable talents. "Teddy" Roosevelt was a New York City Police Commissioner, Governor of New York State, Vice-President under William McKinley and, following McKinley's assassination, the youngest man ever to serve as the President of the United States.

Upon entering the museum, one is captivated by the magnificence of the Roosevelt Memorial rotunda. As an educator dedicated to character education in American schools, the quotation inscribed high above the floor has significant relevance:

Arguably, Roosevelt has led one of the most diversified and remarkable careers ever lived by an American with additional titles including:

• U.S. Civil Service Commissioner
• Assistant Secretary of the Navy
• Colonel of the Rough Riders
• Founder of the National Collegiate Athletic Association

Roosevelt must be appreciated for his contributions to conservation. According to National Geographic, Roosevelt designated approximately 230,000,000 acres as protected National Parks, Forests, preserves or reservations.

READ MORE

Theodore Roosevelt Association	Click here to visit site
American Museum of Natural History	Click here to visit site

Simon Wiesenthal Center: Repairing the World One Step at a Time

In an age where there is a often a clash between individuals based on a lack of tolerance and a disregard for the dignity of persons, each and every person and organization dedicated to the protection of others and promoting good will among people and nations is worthy of admiration. Simon Wiesenthal and the center named in his honor are one such person and organization to be highly esteemed as expressed through a remarkable legacy and mission statement:

[Reprinted from the Simon Wiesenthal Center website at www.wiesenthal.com]

The Simon Wiesenthal Center is an international Jewish human rights organization dedicated to repairing the world one step at a time. The Center’s multifaceted mission generates changes through the Snider Social Action Institute and education by confronting antisemitism, hate and terrorism, promoting human rights and dignity, standing with Israel, defending the safety of Jews worldwide, and teaching the lessons of the Holocaust for future generations. With a constituency of over 400,000 households in the United States, it is accredited as an NGO at international organizations including the United Nations, UNESCO, and the Council of Europe. Headquartered in Los Angeles, the Simon Wiesenthal Center maintains offices in New York, Toronto, Palm Beach, Paris Buenos Aires and Jerusalem.

The center has an educational arm, The Museum of Tolerance, which was founded in 1993 and challenges visitors to confront bigotry and racism as well as to confront the Holocaust in both historic and contemporary concerns. This museum hosts 350,000 visitors annually including 130,000 students with programs including:

[Reprinted from From the Simon Wiesenthal Web site at www.wiesenthal.com]

• Tools for Tolerance – an all-day program that utilizes the Museum’s unique educational environment to explore issues of diversity and tolerance, as well as cooperation in the workplace and in the community. To date, the Museum has trained over 100,000 professionals, including educators and, in partnership with the State of California, individuals in law enforcement. Additionally, the program accommodates firefighters, social workers, health care professionals, attorneys, probation officers, and others.
• Teaching Steps to Tolerance – the Museum’s national program is designed for 5th and 6th grade educators and library media specialists to integrate the teaching of tolerance into their school’s curriculum.
• Task Force Against Hate – confronts extremism by developing strategies to combat Holocaust denial and to educate students about antisemitism and bigotry through conferences and training sessions held throughout the country.
• National Institute Against Hate Crimes – The Center, with support from the US Department of Justice and the Bureau of Justice Assistance, trains criminal justice professionals.
• Tools for Tolerance for Teens – reaches thousands of middle and high school students while Steps to Tolerance engages over 6,000 fifth and sixth graders each year. For those who are not able to experience the Museum directly, Bridging the Gap reaches young people across the country through videoconferencing.

The organization is named after Simon Wiesenthal who survived the Nazi death camps and dedicated his life to documenting the Holocaust and hunting down Nazis who committed crimes against humanity. Mr. Wiesenthal, the "Nazi Hunter" ferreted out nearly 1,100 war criminals including Adolf Eichmann, the administrator of the slaughter of the Jews; Franz Murer, "The Butcher of Wilno" and Erich Rajakowitsch, in charge of the "death transports" in Holland.

In 1967 Simon Wiesenthal published his memoirs, The Murderers Among Us. While promoting the book in America, he announced the finding of Mrs. Hermine Ryan, nee Braunsteiner, who lived in Queens, New York. According to the dossier, she had supervised the killings of several hundred children. She was extradited to Germany for trial as a war criminal and received life imprisonment.

Another of his priority cases was Karl Silberbauer, the Gestapo officer who arrested Anne Frank, the celebrated author of the famous The Diary of Anne Frank, who was murdered by the Nazis after hiding in a Amsterdam attic for two years.

When asked about his motives for becoming a Nazi hunter, Wiesenthal stated that he believed in life after death and when he came face to face with the millions of Jews who died in concentration camps he would say to them

"I did not forget you."

READ MORE

The Simon Wiesenthal Center	Click here to visit site
Museum of Tolerance	Click here to visit site

Wasting the Best and Brightest: Substance Abuse Crisis on Campus

As a Leadership Educator dedicated to character education throughout America, I am deeply concerned about the pervasive substance abuse among our youth. Our young people represent the future of America. I believe that we must begin a full press committed response to this destructive culture of substance abuse by our nation's youth.

I had the opportunity this weekend to read Wasting the Best and the Brightest: Substance Abuse at America’s Colleges and Universities, a recently released report from The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University. The findings are startling and I encourage you to read the report. For your information and convenience, I have reprinted the press release in full.

[Reprinted from The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University – www.casacolumbia.org]

NEW CASA* REPORT FINDS HALF OF
COLLEGE STUDENTS BINGE DRINK,
ABUSE PRESCRIPTION AND ILLEGAL DRUGS

NEARLY ONE IN FOUR MEET MEDICAL CRITERIA FOR ALCOHOL, DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE

WASHINGTON, D. C., March 15, 2007 – Forty-nine percent (3.8 million) of full time college students binge drink and/or abuse prescription and illegal drugs, according to Wasting the Best and the Brightest: Substance Abuse at America’s Colleges and Universities, a new report by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University.

The study also finds that 1.8 million full-time college students (22.9 percent) meet the medical criteria for substance abuse and dependence,[i] two and one half times the 8.5 percent of the general population who meet these same criteria.

The comprehensive 231-page report, the result of more than four years of research, surveys, interviews and focus groups is the most extensive examination ever undertaken of the substance abuse situation on the nation’s college campuses.

"It’s time to get the 'high' out of higher education," said Joseph A. Califano, Jr., CASA's chairman and president and former U.S. Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. "Under any circumstances acceptance by administrators, trustees, professors and parents of this college culture of alcohol and other drug abuse is inexcusable. In this world of fierce global competition, we are losing thousands of our nation's best and brightest to alcohol and drugs, and in the process robbing them and our nation of their promising futures."

The report finds that from 1993 to 2005 there has been no real decline in the proportion of students who drink (70 to 68 percent) and binge drink (40 to 40 percent). However, the intensity of excessive drinking and rates of drug abuse have jumped sharply:

• Between 1993 and 2001 the proportion of students who binge drink frequently[ii] is up 16 percent; who drink on 10 or more occasions in a month, up 25 percent; who get drunk at least three times a month, up 26 percent; and who drink to get drunk, up 21 percent.
• Between 1993 and 2005 the proportion of students abusing prescription drugs increased:
  • 343 percent for opioids like Percocet, Vicodin and OxyContin;
  • 93 percent for abuse of stimulants like Ritalin and Adderall;
  • 450 percent for tranquilizers like Xanax and Valium;
  • 225 percent for sedatives like Nembutal and Seconal.
• Between 1993 and 2005, the proportion of students who:
  • Use marijuana daily more than doubled to 310,000.
  • Use cocaine, heroin, and other illegal drugs (except marijuana), is up 52 percent to 636,000.

Consequences of Abuse

Consequences of substance abuse on college campuses include:

• 1, 717 deaths from unintentional alcohol-related injuries in 2001, up six percent from 1998;
• A 38 percent increase from 1993 to 2001 in the proportion of students injured as a result of their own drinking;
• A 21 percent increase from 2001 to 2005 in the average number of alcohol-related arrests per campus. In 2005, alcohol-related arrests constituted 83 percent of campus arrests;
• 97,000 students were victims of alcohol-related rape or sexual assaults in 2001;
• 696,000 students were assaulted by a student who had been binge drinking in 2001.

These statistics come from a variety of analyses using the best and most recent data available.

What's the Problem?

Nearly 38 percent of college administrators say the major barrier to more effective prevention is the public perception that substance abuse by college students is a normal rite of passage.

"College presidents are reluctant to take on issues they feel they cannot change and this growing public health crisis reflects today's society where students are socialized to consider substance abuse a harmless rite of passage and to medicate every ill," said Reverend Edward A. Malloy, CSC, Chair, The CASA Commission on Substance Abuse at Colleges and Universities II and President Emeritus, University of Notre Dame. "To change this culture, college and university presidents need help from parents, alumni, students, Greek and athletic organizations, state and federal governments. Substance abuse on college campuses is not just an issue of public health; it is one of self-interest. Failure to act in the face of foreseeable harm places schools at risk for damaging their academic reputations and liability lawsuits in the millions of dollars."

Other key findings:

• Rates of daily smoking among college students dropped from 15 percent in 1993 to 12 percent in 2005 and of daily heavy smoking (half a pack or more a day) from nine percent in 1993 to seven percent in 2005. More than 1.8 million full-time college students are current smokers.
• Fraternity and sorority members are likelier than non-members to drink (88 vs. 67 percent), binge drink (64 vs. 37 percent), drink and drive (33 vs. 21 percent), use marijuana (21 vs. 16 percent) or cocaine (3 vs. 1.5 percent), smoke (26 vs. 21 percent).
• 37 percent of college students fear social stigma attached to substance abuse, which keeps them from seeking help. Only 6 percent of students who meet medical criteria for alcohol or drug abuse or dependence seek help.
• 78 percent of college students who use illicit drugs have sexual intercourse compared to 44 percent of those who never use drugs.

"College presidents, deans and trustees have facilitated a college culture of alcohol and drug abuse that is linked to poor student academic performance, depression, anxiety, suicide, property damage, vandalism, fights and a host of medical problems," noted Califano. "By failing to become part of the solution, these Pontius Pilate presidents and parents, deans, trustees and alumni have become part of the problem. Their acceptance of a status quo of rampant alcohol and other drug abuse puts the best and the brightest--and the nation’s future--in harm’s way."

More than a decade ago, CASA convened its landmark Commission on Substance Abuse at Colleges and Universities to understand better the issues surrounding substance abuse at our nation's colleges and universities. The Commission issued two reports: The Smoke-Free Campus: A Report by the Commission on Substance Abuse at Colleges and Universities (1993) and Rethinking Rites of Passage: Substance Abuse on America’s Campuses (1994) which drew attention to the widespread problems of student smoking and drinking, and highlighted the growing problem of dangerous drinking among women. In 2002, CASA reconvened and expanded the Commission on Substance Abuse at Colleges and Universities II, to examine what progress, if any, had been made in the intervening years.

CASA is the only national organization that brings together under one roof all the professional disciplines needed to study and combat all types of substance abuse as they affect all aspects of society. CASA has issued 63 reports and white papers, published one book, conducted demonstration projects focused on children, families and schools at 161 sites in 67 cities and counties in 29 states plus Washington, DC and a Native American tribal reservation, and has been evaluating the effectiveness of drug and alcohol treatment in a variety of programs and drug courts. CASA is the creator of the nationwide initiative Family Day – A Day to Eat Dinner with Your Childrentm -- the fourth Monday in September – the 24th in 2007 -- that promotes parental engagement as a simple and effective way to reduce children's risk of smoking, drinking and using illegal drugs. For more information visit www.casacolumbia.org.

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[i] As diagnosed from the fourth edition of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), addiction occurs when a user experiences at least three of these seven conditions: increased tolerance and diminished impact of same usage, withdrawal syndrome, greater consumption over longer periods, inability to control use, preoccupation with obtaining the drug, important work or recreational activities abandoned, continued use despite the harm it causes. Abuse occurs when a user experiences at least one of these four conditions: problems at work, home or school, problems with family or friends, physical danger to self, trouble with the law.

[ii]Binge drinking three or more times in the past two weeks.

READ MORE

The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University

Click here to visit site

Breathing Life into Education Law: Dedicated Teachers Needed

New York's Education Law is quite extensive. Nine thousand three (9003) Sections within One hundred seventy (170) Articles within nine (9) Titles. And that doesn't include numerous regulations. Most states have similar laws and regulations. These voluminous pages may be necessary for guiding our "educational steps," but if we are concerned only with the "letter of legal compliance" and not with the "spirit of educating our future leaders" then we have missed the boat.

It is the teachers at the front lines who can breathe life into the multitude of sterile laws. A previous blog, Freedom Writers: The Transforming Power of a Teacher, spoke of the teacher's special role:

"Michelangelo and Da Vinci painted the Sistine Chapel and Mona Lisa, respectively. Through Picasso's Guernica, individuals can see the inhumanity, brutality and hopelessness of war. Van Gogh's paintings have captivated and given millions serenity, comfort and inspiration. But above and beyond the mastery of all of the world's greatest artists, only a teacher can mold the heart of a child."

It is within the context of this unique position to influence our next generation that the teacher must understand the laws.

The Safe Schools Against Violence in Education Act (SAVE) was signed into law by New York Governor George Pataki on July 24, 2000. The following April, the New York State Department of Education published a complimentary document entitled Project SAVE: Guidance Document for School Safety Plans. Safe schools are paramount to creating a trusting environment where learning can flourish.

The components of Project SAVE as enumerated by the New York State Center for School Safety are:

1. District-Wide School Safety Plan
2. Building-Level Emergency Response Plans
3. Codes of Conduct
4. Teacher Authority/Principal Authority
5. Uniform Violent Incident Reporting
6. Instruction in Civility, Citizenship, and
   Character Education
7. Health Curriculum
8. Interpersonal Violence Prevention Education
9. School Violence Prevention Training
10. Whistle Blower Protection
11. Fingerprinting
12. Assaults on Teachers
13. Child Abuse Reporting
14. Prohibiting Silent Resignations
15. Teacher Discipline
16. Court Notification

The current climate of the American school system from
pre-K through post graduate studies is in desperate need of teachers who can inspire the hearts of their students. The trappings of bureaucracy must not be allowed to frustrate the ideals of this noble profession. Educators must be renewed and empowered to transform America, one school, one classroom, one student at a time.

Transforming Our Schools:
Security Awareness, Violence Prevention, Character Education

On Saturday, April 14, 2007, the Mid-Hudson Teacher Center, in partnership with the Mid-Hudson Study Council, the SUNY New Paltz School of Education, and the Lower Hudson Teacher Center Network, will be hosting a School Safety and Security conference in Marlboro, New York.

This conference, entitled Transforming Our Schools: Security Awareness, Violence Prevention, Character Education will focus on the "heart" as well as the "brick" aspects of school safety. Attendees are sure to walk away with a renewed enthusiasm for their roles in developing better citizens and leaders for the future of America.

For more information about this conference, click here.

READ MORE

NYS Center for School Safety Project SAVE Resources	Click here to visit site
U.S. Department of Education Office of Safe & Drug-Free Schools Emergency Planning	Click here to visit site

Anti-Defamation League: Justice and Fair Treatment for All

Anti-Defamation League Mission Statement

"The immediate object of the League is to stop, by appeals to reason and conscience and, if necessary, by appeals to law, the defamation of the Jewish people. Its ultimate purpose is to secure justice and fair treatment to all citizens alike and to put an end forever to unjust and unfair discrimination against and ridicule of any sect or body of citizens."

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Part 2 of 2 — Part 1, published on March 14, 2007 highlighted the Bagel, Lox and Cops: Getting to Know the Orthodox Jewish Community event held in Lakewood, New Jersey.

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Representatives from the Anti-Defamation League gave a compelling presentation to over 100 law enforcement officials of Ocean County at the Bagel, Lox and Cops event held in Lakewood, New Jersey on Tuesday, March 13, 2007.

The presentation included information on L.E.A.R.N. (Law Enforcement Agency Resource Network), a web resource of the Anti-Defamation League which is considered the premier resource for extremist activity information. This site includes details on:

Extremism

• Breaking news about extremist incidents and arrests
• In-depth guide to extremists, hate groups and movements
• Advance warning of rallies and meetings by location

Hate Symbols Database

• Online data base of extremist symbols and tattoos
• Quick reference pocket guide (distributed to all venue attendees)

Hate Crimes

• Guidance for hate crime response
• Investigative strategies
• Interactive state map of hate crime provisions

Terrorism

• Terrorism update with incident listings
• Special coverage on bio-terrorism, cyberspace communication and emerging threats

Training

• Advanced training for senior law enforcement officials
• Officer safety guidance for hate crime incidents

Additional information included the definition of hate crime as:

"A hate crime is a criminal act against a person or property in which the perpetrator chooses the victim because of the victim's real or perceived race, religion, national origin, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability or gender." (Individual state laws may differ in some respects)

On a personal note, I grew up in the Bronx in a Jewish neighborhood with fond memories of many Jewish friends and neighbors. Years later, I obtained a Master of Arts degree in Sacred Scripture after studying Hebrew for two years and completing my thesis on Scriptural Reflections on the Holocaust.

My admiration and appreciation for the Jewish people and their religious values have been essential to my life and I have visited many synagogues to express my respect. My esteem for their life of faith and devotion to community continues to inspire me.

I am convinced without reservation, that it is the duty of all Americans by reason of the law of nature, The Constitution of the United States of America and the principles of America's most honored traditions, to honor the Jewish faith as well as the religious beliefs of every faith.

"May the children of the stock of Abraham who dwell in this land continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other inhabitants; while every one shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree and there shall be none to make him afraid." George Washington's letter to the Hebrew Congregation at Newport, August 18, 1790

READ MORE

Anti-Defamation League – L.E.A.R.N. Law Enforcement Agency Resource Network

Click here to visit site

Bagels, Lox and Cops

An extraordinary collaboration between the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office, the Lakewood Police Department and the Orthodox Jewish Community of Lakewood, New Jersey took place at Lake Terrace in Lakewood, New Jersey on Tuesday, March 13, 2007. The day long event entitled Bagels, Lox and Cops: Getting to Know the Orthodox Jewish Community provided an opportunity for representatives of the Orthodox Jewish Community to share cultural concerns with law enforcement personnel from throughout Ocean County. Every agency in the county was represented by its chief or designated officer. Additional law enforcement agency representation included:

• New Jersey State Police
• Ocean County Department of Corrections
• County of Ocean Sheriff's Office
• State of New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness

The day long conference included presentations, a panel discussion and a question and answer session. The first part of the program included opening remarks from Ocean County Prosecutor Thomas F. Kelaher and his assistants, Chief Daniel T. Mahony and Deputy Chief Robert J. Peck as well as Chief Robert C. Lawson of the Lakewood Police Department. This was followed by presentations from various Jewish Orthodox Rabbis:

• Rabbi Aron Kotler
  Beth Medrash Govoha and the growth of the
  Lakewood Orthodox Community
• Rabbi Abe Muller
  Interaction Between Sexes
  EMS / Customs / Hatzolah
• Rabbi Menashe Miller
  Sabbath and the Jewish Holidays
• Rabbi Ben Heinemann
  Kosher Dietary Laws
• Rabbi Yisroel Schenkolewski
  Accidents, Deaths and Autopsies

As well as:

• Deputy Mayor Meir Lichenstein
  Chair: Panel Discussion
• Anti-Defamation League
  Hate on Display:
  Extremist Groups, Symbols and Venues
• Deputy Chief Charles Smith
  Police Response to the Orthodox Community

Rabbi Aron Kotler of the Beth Medrash Govoha (the largest Talmudical Academy in the United States) stated that

"Ocean County is the fastest growing county in New Jersey and a prime location for Orthodox Jews to live."

He explained core values of the Jewish life as including a sensitivity to others especially through acts of charity and the importance of understanding different cultures.

Rabbi Menashe P. Miller spoke about understanding the Sabbath as a day of rest and explained the various Jewish holidays:

• Passover
• Shavuot
• The High Holidays
• Sukkot
• Hanukkah
• Purim

This event begins to develop an appreciation and understanding of the Orthodox Jewish community and customs within the law enforcement ranks of Ocean County and is a concrete application of all that is great in our nation as stated in the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States:

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

Part 1 of 2 — Part 2 will follow on March 15, 2007 highlighting the admirable work of the Anti-Defamation League.

Crime Prevention: Vital for American Society

The Uniform Crime Reporting Program was conceived to meet a need for reliable, uniform statistics for America. Since 1930, the FBI has been responsible for collecting, publishing and archiving crime statistics.

The annual publication of the FBI which gives a pulse of crime in the nation is the Crime in the United States (CIUS). On December 18, 2006, the preliminary semiannual uniform crime report was released reporting an increase of 3.7 percent in the number of violent crimes throughout the nation in the first half of 2006 as compared to the first half of 2005. Murder, forcible rape, robbery and aggravated assault are part of this violent crime category. This data is provided by nearly 17,000 law enforcement agencies throughout the United States and sounds the alarm for the need for crime prevention.

Jersey City Police Academy

On March 12, 2007 a group of law enforcement and private security personnel began a week of intensive training to attain crime prevention practitioner certification at the Jersey City, New Jersey Police Academy. Representatives of the North Jersey Regional Crime Prevention Officers Association will assist with offering their expertise in a variety of crime prevention and community policing modules.

Attendees in the course represented the following agencies:

• Fairleigh Dickinson University Public Safety
• Jersey City Police Department
• Secaucus Police Department
• Orange Police Department
• West Orange Police Department

As individuals called to roles of leadership in their respective law enforcement and private security professions, it is my earnest hope that they serve the public trust with honor and integrity. Their dedication to reduce crime in their respective communities is to be commended.

READ MORE

FBI Uniform Crime Reports

Click here to visit site

New Jersey High School Redesign

 

On Wednesday night, March 7, 2007 over 200 family members and educators convened at Jose Marti Middle School in Union City, New Jersey to discuss the need for high school reform. The event was part of a series of public presentations on the initiative of the New Jersey High School Redesign Steering Committee.

[Reprinted from the New Jersey High School Redesign Steering Committee – www.njhighschoolsummit.org]

The Steering Committee

The New Jersey High School Redesign Steering Committee is a coalition of the state’s major education organizations working to build public awareness of and support for a more rigorous high school experience. To work toward the goal of making sure that our state’s students are prepared to succeed in the workforce or in pursuing higher education, the Steering Committee is beginning a statewide conversation on high school reform in our state.

The Steering Committee grew out of the New Jersey Education Summit on High Schools convened in 2005 and supports the work begun at the National Education Summit on High Schools held in Washington, DC in February of that year.

During the event, representatives from the steering committee shared a PowerPoint commentary on the New Jersey Schools including:

• High Schools were designed over 100 years ago and change is needed to address current concerns. The economy is more global than ever and we need to keep pace with the continuous growth of new technologies. Examples of these technologies include cellphones, digital cameras, wireless connectors, DVDS, satellite television, instant messaging and IPODs.
• Technology is replacing jobs, e.g., EZPass, voice recognition systems and ATMs.
• Employers now hire for American jobs from a global workforce.
• College or jobs immediately graduating high school now require higher level skills.
• The majority of jobs in the next few years will require more than a high school graduation.
• New Jersey surpasses the national average for academics but 42% are not ready for college level classes; therefore many are dropping out of college. Remedial courses to catch up do not count for credit, are all too common, increase expenses and add months or years to the educational process.
• In New Jersey, 99 of 100 companies say high school graduates do not have skills to meet goals. Recently 1,300 applicants were screened for 130 security jobs since many did not have even 8th grade skills.

[Reprinted from the event handout Ready for the Future.

Plan to Improve New Jersey High Schools

• Students entering the ninth grade should be prepared for rigorous high school courses
• Rigorous standards and a challenging series of courses should be supported as requirements for graduation from high school
• Assessments and coursework must be aligned in high school to prepare students for the rigor of college and the workforce
• The New Jersey high school experience should be redesigned and restructured to make it more rigorous, relevant and personalized for all students
• All students must have highly effective teachers and school leaders

As an observer of the event, my concerns are:

• The need for broadening this philosophy to the entire educational experience prior to high school must not be overlooked.
• Character education must be an instilled philosophy into any authentic educational system and a key ingredient to the success of transforming our schools.
• Principles of character education must be the driving force of this transition.
• Bureaucracy, red tape, and the attitude of "who will get the credit" must not prevent the school culture from being transformed.
• The response must be intense, persistent and executed with full force dedication throughout all elements of the school community including educators, parents, students and community leaders.
• Many schools have environments where school safety and security is a significant concern. A safe school environment is the foundation for character education and academic excellence and the need for incorporating this concern is critical to any authentic educational reform.

Essentially, the New Jersey High School Redesign Steering Committee is on track and to be commended for its dedication to

"building public awareness and support for a more rigorous high school experience, one that allows students to succeed in the workforce or in pursuing higher education."

It is critical to the advancement of public education that this initial effort is now complimented with the required forecast, capacity, and determination to clearly understand that educational reform is needed prior to the high school years in order to prepare students and educators for redesigned high schools.

A comprehensive, integrated approach must be taken. Perhaps it is time for the New Jersey High School Redesign Steering Committee to be re-cast to a New Jersey Comprehensive Educational Redesign Initiative?

READ MORE

New Jersey High School Redesign Steering Committee	Click here to visit site
Achieve, Inc.	Click here to visit site
Character Education Partnership	Click here to visit site
U.S. Department of Education Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools	Click here to visit site

Character Education at School and Home

On Thursday, March 8, 2007 the Secacus Board of Education hosted Character Education at School and Home at the Arthur F. Couch Performing Arts Center in Secaucus, New Jersey.

This event followed last week's presentation on Myspace and Internet Security Concerns and was the second part of a three-part educational series on issues important to parents, students, educators and law enforcement. Part Three, Parenting Skills – Insights and Training, will be held on Wednesday, April 11, 2007 at 7:00PM.

[Reprinted from the Character Education Partnership – www.character.org]

What is character education?

Character education is a national movement creating schools that foster ethical, responsible, and caring young people by modeling and teaching good character through emphasis on universal values that we all share. It is the intentional, proactive effort by schools, districts, and states to instill in their students important core, ethical values such as caring, honesty, fairness, responsibility, and respect for self and others.

Character education is not a "quick fix." It provides long-term solutions that address moral, ethical, and academic issues that are of growing concern about our society and the safety of our schools.

• Character education not only cultivates minds, it nurtures hearts.
• Character education gets to the heart of the matter - literally.

Why do we need character education?

As Dr. Thomas Lickona, author of Educating for Character, stated,

"Moral education is not a new idea. It is, in fact, as old as education itself. Down through history, in countries all over the world, education has had two great goals: to help young people become smart and to help them become good."

Good character is not formed automatically; it is developed over time through a sustained process of teaching, example, learning, and practice – it is developed through character education.

The intentional teaching of good character is particularly important in today’s society since our youth face many opportunities and dangers unknown to earlier generations.

What Does Strong Character Mean?

Character is a set of qualities, or values, that shape our thoughts, feelings, actions, and reactions that help us become responsible citizens.

People with strong character

• show compassion,
• are honest and fair,
• display self-discipline in setting and meeting goals,
• make good judgments,
• show respect to others,
• show courage in standing up for beliefs,
• have a strong sense of responsibility,
• are good citizens who are concerned for their community, and
• maintain self-respect.

The Language of Character

• Honesty
• Integrity
• Kindness
• Responsibility
• Respect
• Courage
• Self-Discipline
• Perseverance
• Good Judgment
• Trustworthiness

Principles of Communicating Character

• Sincerely Care
• The Splendor of Truthfulness
• Perform Dynamically
• Be Comfortable with Criticism and Disagreement
• Avoid Underhanded Power Plays
• Appreciate Others
• Remain Cool, Calm and Collected
• Be a Paragon of Character

The program paused to honor the memory of Rachel Scott, the first student killed at Columbine High School in 1999 and to reflect on Rachel's challenge:

1. Eliminate Prejudice by Looking for the Best in Others
2. Dare to Dream — Set Goals — Keep a Journal
3. Choose your influences — input determines output
4. Kind Words — Small Acts of Kindness = HUGE impact
5. Start a Chain Reaction with family and friends

It all comes down to character as the heart of the matter and remembering that a school is a community of hearts not bricks.

READ MORE

Character Education Partnership	Click here to visit site
Rachel's Challenge	Click here to visit site

Ocean County School Safety and Security Collaboration

At a March 7, 2007 venue hosted by the Ocean County, New Jersey Prosecutor's Office to address concerns of school violence and emergency preparedness were dedicated representatives of the following agencies:

• Ocean County Prosecutor's Office
• New Jersey State Police
• State of New Jersey Department of Education Ocean County Office
• State of New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness
• County of Ocean Sheriff's Office

Ocean County has a southernmost tip that falls into the Philadelphia area. According to the United States Census, Ocean County is the fastest growing county in New Jersey with an estimated population of 555,000.

The extraordinary growth of the county population has expressed itself in the educational community with an increased student base, the construction of new schools and concerns for school safety and security.

I had the honor of being the invited speaker and facilitator for the Ocean County School Safety and Security Collaboration coordinated by Trooper Ricardo A. Valmon of The New Jersey State Police Infrastructure Security Unit. The day emphasized the critical need to develop a "culture of preparedness hallmarked by leadership, partnerships and unity of effort" to safeguard our children.

After introductions of the various representatives and some opening remarks about the demographics of Ocean County, the agenda included:

• Laying the Foundation
     - Shattered Communities
     - Crisis of Leadership
     - Culture of Violence
• School Safety and Security Best Practices
     - Developing the Plan
     - Implementation, Ongoing Support & Training
• Making It Happen
     - Leadership
     - Vigilance
     - Collaboration
• American Military Personnel Tribute
• Conclusion

The achievements, reputation and dedication of the attendees is to be commended. The law enforcement and educational professionalism of each of these individuals honors their respected agencies. Their collective expertise and knowledge, working collaboratively, gives hope to the transforming of schools in Ocean County.

"America will rise to meet the challenges of this new era through the transforming power of renewed character that begins in the hearts of its' citizens and leaders."

READ MORE

Ocean County Prosecutor's Office	Click here to visit site
County of Ocean Sheriff's Department	Click here to visit site
State of New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness	Click here to visit site
New Jersey State Police	Click here to visit site
State of New Jersey Department of Education	Click here to visit site

School Tragedies Remind Us of Need for Preparedness

Two recent school tragedies underscore the need for school safety and security preparedness for our communities, school districts and schools. Four students, the bus driver and his wife were killed when a bus carrying the Bluffton (Ohio) University baseball team from Ohio to Florida crashed through a highway overpass and plummeted to the highway 30 feet below. And eight students were killed when a tornado destroyed Enterprise High School in Enterprise, Alabama. We mourn with these communities as they cope with the loss of their loved ones.

In remembering and honoring these individuals who lost their lives too soon, let us resolve to do all we can to be prepared to prevent such tragedies in the future.

One excellent resource for emergency planning for schools is PRACTICAL INFORMATION ON CRISIS PLANNING: A GUIDE FOR SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES published by The Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools of the U.S. Department of Education. This 140+ page document addresses a range of events and emergencies:

• Natural disasters (earthquake, tornado, hurricane, flood)
• Severe weather
• Fires
• Chemical or hazardous material spills
• Bus crashes
• School shootings
• Bomb threats
• Medical emergencies
• Student or staff deaths (suicide, homicide, unintentional, or natural)
• Acts of terror or war

The guide is organized into sections that experts consider the four phases of crisis mangement:

• Mitigation/Prevention addresses what schools and districts can do to reduce or eliminate risk to life and property.
• Preparedness focuses on the process of planning for the worst-case scenario.
• Response is devoted to the steps to take during a crisis.
• Recovery deals with how to restore the learning and teaching environment after a crisis.

and stresses that crisis management is a process and that plans are never complete but should continually be reviewed, updated, and practiced.

The Key Principles for Effective Crisis Planning as enumerated in this guide are:

• Effective crisis planning begins with leadership at the top
• Crisis plans should not be developed in a vacuum
• School and districts should open the channels of communication well before a crisis
• Crisis plans should be developed in partnership with other community groups, including law enforcement, fire safety officials, emergency medical services, as well as health and mental health professionals
• A common vocabulary is necessary
• Schools should tailor district crisis plans to meet individual school needs
• Plan for the diverse needs of children and staff
• Include all types of schools where appropriate
• Provide teachers and staff with ready access to the plan so they can understand its components and act on them
• Training and practice are essential for the successful implementation of crisis plans
• Crisis plans are living documents

READ MORE

U.S. Department of Education Practical Information on Crisis Planning Brochure

Click here to visit site

American Military Hospital Scandal: Wake Up Call for Transformational Leadership

The words on the March 5, 2007 Newsweek magazine cover echo the sentiment throughout America, "Failing Our Wounded: Shattered in body and mind, too many veterans are facing poor health care and red tape."

This Newsweek edition focuses on the serious leadership deficiencies at Walter Reed Army Medical Center that resulted in deplorable conditions. It is full of heart wrenching photographs of veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan who have lost limbs or eyes, suffer from depression, or have serious bone, muscle and burn injuries. Compounding the normal difficulties associated with recovery and rehabilitation is the loss of morale and intense discouragement due to the burdensome and insensitive bureaucracy that makes required treatments, benefits disbursement and backlogged cases a nightmare.

There is a crisis of leadership throughout America highlighted by public and private corruption, professional sports and faith based scandals as well as a lack of preparedness for natural disasters underscored by the Hurricane Katrina fiasco. Yet, the contemptuous failing of care for our wounded veterans, many of them teenagers and each of them members of the American family must be the final straw. It is time to ignite change that leads to a transformational leadership culture within our entire nation.

The United States Military has a proud legacy. The raising of the flag at Iwo Jima, the discipline of The Sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknowns, the character of the West Point Honor Code, and the sacrifices of many Americans who have served gallantly in World War II, the Korean Conflict, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan. Our nation must rise up and once again embrace honor and commit to leadership hallmarked by courage, character, compassion and community.

In response to the Walter Reed Army Medical Center Scandal, the words of Abraham Lincoln must enter into the deepest recesses of our hearts:

"With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation's wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan — to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and a lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations."

READ MORE

Washington Post Photo Journal Walter Reed Army Medical Center

Click here to visit site

Optimum Leadership: Developing Tomorrow's Leaders

On Saturday, March 3, 2007, the optimum leadership graduate class of Dr. Joseph A. Devine of the Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Administrative Science met for a special presentation on the Ethical Dimension of Leadership.

The venue was held at Passaic County Technical Institute (PCTI) which is a four-time national award winning, comprehensive high school serving 2,300 students. It is located on a 55+ acre campus in Wayne, New Jersey and receives students from all municipalities in Passaic County. Over 250 staff members deliver the curriculum of 200 courses and career areas. In a unique partnership with Fairleigh Dickinson University, this educational institute also hold venues such as this optimum leadership class for the graduate students of Dr. Devine.

Students in this class represented rank and file of various agencies, corporations and schools including:

• Fairleigh Dickinson University
• Passaic County Community College
• County of Morris, New Jersey
• Morris County Prosecutor's Office
• New Jersey State Police
• Somerville Police Department
• Montville Township Police Department
• Midland Park Police Department
• Howell Police Department
• Bergen County Sheriff's Department
• Department of Defense
• U.S. Army at Picatinny Arsenal
• Union County Prosecutor's Office
• Expert Polygraph Testing

As always, it was an honor and privilege to speak to the exceptional students in this class. Their dedication to learning and becoming better leaders in their respective professions is admirable.

America is facing a crisis of leadership and programs such as this one are needed to instill once again the burning desire to honesty, integrity, and service in the hearts of our future leaders.

READ MORE

Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Administrative Science	Click here to visit site
Passaic County Technical Institute	Click here to visit site

SafeKids.com: Family Contract for Online Safety

Encouraging collaboration between parents and children as integral to the promotion of internet safety, organizations such as SafeKids.com have put together documents to formalize the Family Contract for Online Safety.

For your convenience, the text of the SafeKids.com Kids' Pledge and Parents' Pledge is provided here, as well as links to the printable versions of these documents for families to print and sign.

We ask that you forward a link to this entry to any families who might benefit from reviewing these contracts.

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Family Contract for Online Safety
Kids' Pledge

1. I will not give out personal information such as my address, telephone number, parents’ work address/telephone number, or the name and location of my school without my parents’ permission.
2. I will tell my parents right away if I come across any information that makes me feel uncomfortable.
3. I will never agree to get together with someone I "meet" online without first checking with my parents. If my parents agree to the meeting, I will be sure that it is in a public place and bring my mother or father along.
4. I will never send a person my picture or anything else without first checking with my parents.
5. I will not respond to any messages that are mean or in any way make me feel uncomfortable. It is not my fault if I get a message like that. If I do I will tell my parents right away so that they can contact the service provider.
6. I will talk with my parents so that we can set up rules for going online. We will decide upon the time of day that I can be online, the length of time I can be online, and appropriate areas for me to visit. I will not access other areas or break these rules without their permission.
7. I will not give out my Internet password to anyone (even my best friends) other than my parents.
8. I will check with my parents before downloading or installing software or doing anything that could possibly hurt our computer or jeopardize my family’s privacy.
9. I will be a good online citizen and not do anything that hurts other people or is against the law.
10. I will help my parents understand how to have fun and learn things online and teach them things about the Internet, computers and other technology.

I agree to the above

__________________________
Child sign here

I will help my child follow this agreement and will allow reasonable use of the Internet as long as these rules and other family rules are followed.

__________________________
Parent(s) sign here

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Family Contract for Online Safety
Parents' Pledge

1. I will get to know the services and Web sites my child uses. If I don't know how to use them, I'll get my child to show me how.
2. I will set reasonable rules and guidelines for computer use by my children and will discuss these rules and post them near the computer as a reminder. I'll remember to monitor their compliance with these rules, especially when it comes to the amount of time they spend on the computer.
3. I will not overreact if my child tells me about a problem he or she is having on the Internet. Instead, we'll work together to try to solve the problem and prevent it from happening again.
4. I promise not to use a PC or the Internet as an electronic babysitter.
5. I will help make the Internet a family activity and ask my child to help plan family events using the Internet.
6. I will try to get to know my child's "online friends" just as I try get to know his or her other friends.

I agree to the above

___________________
Parent(s)

I understand that my parent(s) has agreed to these rules and agree to help my parent(s) explore the Internet with me.

___________________
Child sign here

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READ MORE

SafeKids.com Family Contract for Online Safety Kids' Pledge – Printable Version	Click here to visit site
SafeKids.com Family Contract for Online Safety Parents' Pledge – Printable Version	Click here to visit site
SafeKids.com	Click here to visit site