WESTSIDE NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

O Christmas Tree

2011-12-14T19:28:00.000-06:00

Trees

When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label "Fire Resistant." Although this label does not mean the tree won't catch fire, it does indicate the tree is more resistant to burning.
When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green, needles are hard to pull from branches and do not break when bent between your fingers. The trunk butt of a fresh tree is sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles.
When setting up a tree at home, place it away from fireplaces and radiators. Because heated rooms dry live trees out rapidly, be sure to keep the stand filled with water. Dry branches are more sensitive to heat from lights. Replace the water in the container daily. Place the tree out of the way of traffic and do not block doorways.
If you have young children that like to climb, consider purchasing a tabletop tree.
When the holidays are over, don't hang onto your tree for an excessive period out of sentimentality. It's time to toss it. Why? Because it's very likely that your tree is already drying out quickly despite your frequent water changes, and for each day it remains standing, your risk of household fire increases -- even if you've stopped illuminating your Christmas lights.

Christmas lights

2011-12-14T09:08:00.000-06:00

Christmas Lights

Indoors or outside, use only lights that have been tested for safety by a recognized testing laboratory, such as UL or ETL. This indicates conformance with safety standards. Use only lights that have plugs containing fuses.

Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Throw out damaged sets. Always replace burned-out bulbs promptly with the same wattage bulbs.

If using an extension cord, make sure it is rated for the intended use.

Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and a person touching a branch could be electrocuted.

Before using lights outdoors, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use.

Stay away from power or feeder lines leading from utility poles into older homes.

Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house walls, or other firm supports to protect the lights from wind damage. Use only insulated staples (not nails or tacks) to hold strings in place. Or, run strings of lights through hooks (available at hardware stores).

Turn off all holiday lights when you go to bed or leave the house. The lights could short out and start a fire.

Use caution when removing outdoor holiday lights. Never pull or tug on lights – this could cause stress on the connections that could create a fire hazard.

Outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to protect against electric shock. Portable outdoor GFCIs can be purchased where electrical supplies are sold. GFCIs can also be installed permanently to household circuits by a qualified electrician.

Twas The Night Before Christmas

2011-12-14T07:59:00.000-06:00

‘Twas the night before Christmas the neighborhood slept, no robberies or burglaries, not one single theft. we were being aware, it’s our job, and it’s tough, but when neighbors work together, crooks can’t do their stuff.

We see you have deadbolts, and your windows are pinned.

You’ve joined “Neighborhood Watch,” and that’s how you win.

When your neighbor goes traveling,

keep an eye on his house,

keep bad guys from stirring, except that darn mouse.

Your car, locked while shopping, packages kept out of view,

you double-checked your charge slips, and the bills on line too.

Well, got to run, We’re out of time,

so Happy Holidays, and thanks for helping us…

Take A Bite Out Of Crime!

from the five canyons neighborhood watch

HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

2011-12-13T20:09:00.000-06:00

The holiday season is a time for crimes of opportunity. Keep these tips in mind this season:

Don’t leave packages in plain view in your vehicle – put them in your trunk.

If you will not be home for deliveries, have your items delivered to a neighbor who will be home.

Hold on to your money: Pickpockets have an easier chance to steal from you when shops are crowed. Always carry your purse tucked tightly under your arm, ladies. And for you men . . . it can happen to you too! Put your money and only necessary cards in your front pants pocket where it harder for a bad guy to get at it.

Don’t park in secluded or dark areas of the parking lot. Be patient and courteous while parking.

Try not to be the last to leave the store. Leave when the stores are still open and there are plenty of other shoppers in the parking lot.

Shopping with kids? Teach them to go to a store clerk or security guard if you get separated.

When you get home, remember this home safety reminder: Approximately 50% of all burglars enter the house via unlocked or open doors and/or windows. Keep all doors, including your garage door, closed and locked. Don’t display gifts where they can be seen from outside.

When out on the town:

With office parties and general Christmas celebrations, bars, restaurants and other venues that are often crowded during this season. Don't leave bags over the back of your chair and keep wallets and purses close to your body to make it more difficult for the pickpocket. Busy places makes it easier for the sneak thief, so be alert at all times. Make prior arrangements as to how you will get home. Avoid any potential disturbances on the street. Stay with friends if you can.

Christmas Services in the Neighborhood

2011-12-13T18:00:00.001-06:00

St Benedicts Catholic Church 275-0001 Reverend Donald Wolf
Saturday, December 24, 5:30 pm Children's Christ Mass
Saturday, December 24, 11:30 pm Christmas carols followed by High Christ Mass
Sunday,   December 25, 10 am Mass
Sunday,   December 25, 12 Noon Mass in Spanish

Living Love Christian Center, 273-1130, Pastor Mark Guinn
Sunday, December 18, 10:30 am Christmas Play
Sunday, December 25, 10:30 am (Only service)

Wallace Avenue Baptist Church, 273-8679, Pastor Butch Bradley
Sunday, December 18, 10:30 am Christmas Music Program
Sunday, December 18,   5:00 pm "Nativity" movie, food and fellowship
Sunday, December 25, 10:30 am The Lord's Supper (only service)

Grace Fellowship New Testament Church, 273-4833, Jerry and Sydney Barham
Sunday, December 25, 10:30 am Christmas Day service

Christmas Party Time Tonight

2011-12-13T15:15:00.000-06:00

The Westside Neighborhood Watch will have it's Christmas party Tonight December 13 starting at 6:30 - 8:00 Pm at the Wallace Avenue Baptist Church. Our special guest will be Santa Clause and the Dunbar Heights Community.

Bring a gift to play dirty Santa max of $5:00 or a white elephant

Hope to see you there!

Thanksgiving Safety Tips

2011-11-22T23:03:00.000-06:00

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind during this holiday season.

If you have family visiting let them know about your fire escape plan and designated meeting place in case of a fire.

Keep a fire extinguisher available next to your oven and know how to use it.

If you have young children in your home keep them away from the kitchen unless they are helping with food preparations. Keep an eagle eye on them you never know when that little one might reach up and grab that hot pan or the knife on the counter.

Use the back burners when possible and be sure to turn the pot handles in so that they don't extend over the edge of the stove.

If you burn candles blow them out before you leave the house even if it is for a short time. Keep them out of reach of little hands.

Home Safety when you are away!

Use timers on lights to give your residence the appearance of being occupied.
Your answering machine message should not indicate that you are not home, and don't use your name.
Double check your door and window locks.

earthquake safety

2011-11-07T21:49:00.000-06:00

An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the Earth caused by the breaking and shifting of rock beneath the Earth's surface. This shaking can cause buildings and bridges to collapse; disrupt gas, electric and phone service.

Keep Calm.
DROP to the ground; take COVER by getting under a sturdy table or other piece of furniture; and HOLD ON until the shaking stops. If there isn’t a table or desk near you, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner of the building.
Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture, masonry veneers (such as fireplaces), tall furniture, and hanging pictures or
mirrors.
Stay in bed if you are there when the earthquake strikes. Hold on and protect your head with a pillow, unless you are under a heavy light fixture that could fall. In that case, move to the nearest safe place.
Do not use a doorway except if you know it is a strongly supported, load-bearing doorway and it is close to you. Many inside doorways are lightly constructed and do not offer protection..
Doorways are no stronger than any other part of the structure. During an earthquake, get under a sturdy piece of furniture and hold on. This will provide some protection from falling objects that can injure you during an earthquake.
Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Do not exit a building during the shaking. Research has shown that most injuries occur when people inside buildings attempt to move to a different location inside the building or try to leave.
DO NOT use the elevators.
Be aware that the electricity may go out or the sprinkler systems or fire alarms may turn on.

After an earthquake

Check for injuries.

Don't move injured persons unless they are in immediate danger.

Turn on your TV or radio for emergency information and instructions.

Check utilities for gas and/or water leaks, or broken electrical connections.

Be prepared to turn off utilities in the event they are damaged.

Clean up medications, cleaning products, and/or flammable liquids.

Check food and water supplies.

Open cabinets carefully, to avoid objects falling out.

More information on earthquake safety is available through FEMA.

Check on the latest earthquakes go to
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqsus/
http://www.okgeosurvey1.gov/pages/home.php

news on the latest
http://articles.cnn.com/2011-11-06/us/us_oklahoma-earthquake_1_47-magnitude-quake-largest-quake-56-magnitude-quake?_s=PM:US

http://www.chron.com/news/article/USGS-3-earthquakes-give-Oklahoma-the-shakes-2253460.php

http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Latest-News-Wires/2011/1106/Rare-Oklahoma-earthquake-damages-14-buildings

What can I do about bullying

2011-10-08T08:58:00.000-05:00

This Post is for all of the kids out there that are being bullied.

First and foremost No one deserves to be bullied. If it is happening to you, it is not your fault.

Try to ignore the bullying, Try not to show that you are upset or angry. Make a joke, walk off and join some other kids. For example, if a student makes fun on your clothing, laugh and say, "Yeah, I think this shirt is kind of funny-looking, too."
Bullies love to get a reaction - it's 'fun'. If you can keep calm and hide your emotions, they might get bored and leave you alone. As one teenager said, 'they can't bully you if you don't care'. The bully wants you to be afraid and to look afraid and upset. Sometimes when bullies don't get you to be afraid, they will stop.
Try to stay away from the bully. Bullies like power and control. They feel more powerful when you are alone. Avoid areas of the school where there are not many students or teachers around. Don't bring expensive things or lots of money to school. Take a different route through hallways or walk with friends or a teacher to your classes.
If you need help, don't be embarrassed about asking. Everyone needs help sometimes and asking for help to stop bullying doesn't mean that you are weak or a failure.

If you are being bullied, tell a friend, Ask him or her to help you. It will be harder for the bully to pick on you if you have a friend with you for support.
Write down the details of the incidents and your feelings. When you do decide to tell someone, a written record of the bullying makes it easier to prove what has been going on.
Tell a teacher and tell your parents.
Tell Someone! Make people listen to you and don't take no for an answer. It won't stop unless you do. It can be hard to do this so if you don't feel you can do it in person it might be easier to write a note to your parents explaining how you feel, or perhaps confide in someone outside the immediate family, like a grandparent, aunt, uncle or cousin and ask them to help you tell your parents what's going on. I know that this does not cover all aspects of bullying but I do hope that it helps some.

Bully

2011-10-07T19:53:00.000-05:00

Who is a bully? A bully is someone male or female, that repeatedly harms another person by purposely making them feel uncomfortable, hurting them by hitting,pushing,kicking or tripping, name calling or spreading rumors or making menacing gestures, even leaving someone out of an activity. Bullies are usually physically, or socially stronger than the person that is being bullied.

Why people bully? Could be that they want to be seen as popular, or to gain attention, they could even be jealous of the person being bullied, it is also possible that they are being bullied themselves into being a bully. Or they enjoy feeling power over someone. On occasion they don't realize that they are hurting the other person.

Why are some people bullied and not others? Sometimes a person is being bullied for no reason, or because they are different IE: the way they talk, dress, their name, because they are smaller, or that the bully thinks that they won't stand up to them.

Ways to tell if someone is a bully. Being accused of being a bully at school or elsewhere. Gotten into trouble for fighting, speak about others as being stupid or other negative words. Or by saying that others deserve bad things happening to them or showing a lack of concern for others in bad situations.

Are you a bully? Are you seen by other students as tough and show little empathy for victimized persons? Do you repeatedly tease someone in a nasty way? Do you damage the belongings of other people? Do you desire to be dominate over others? Than you might be a bully
Being bullied is not a rite of passage and can be avoidable.

Trick or Treat Safety

2011-10-07T13:04:00.000-05:00

DRIVING SAFETY...

Motorists traveling on Halloween night should remember that children are everywhere: streets, sidewalks, crosswalks and parking lots. You will need to be on the highest alert while driving. Many of the costumes children wear are dark and difficult to see, be sure to have your headlights on. Slow down if you see leaves on the ground, you never know where children may be hiding. Be alert at all times and please drive with caution.

ADVICE TO PARENTS...

Children under the age of 12 should be accompanied by an adult.
Know the route your children will be taking if you are not going with them.
Set a curfew for children who are not being supervised by an adult.
Explain to children the difference between tricks and vandalism.
Safety is in numbers, older children should stay together in groups.
Assure your child is not tempted to eat their "unchecked" treats. Provide them with a good meal before they go out and give them some treats from home to place in their pockets.
Be careful about homemade treats or damaged wrappers.

COSTUME SAFETY...

Costumes should be of bright material, visible in the dark or have reflective tape.
Consider using face paint, masks can hinder a child's visibility.
If they do wear a mask, make sure it fits securely to allow good visibility.
Wear a well fitted costume. Loose costumes may cause the child to trip and fall.
Tape child's name, address and telephone number to inside of costume.
Do not allow sharp instruments to be used in costuming.

TRICK-OR-TREATING SAFETY...

Carry a flash light.
Walk on a sidewalk. If a sidewalk is not available, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
Avoid taking shortcuts across backyards or alleys.
Stop at curbs.
Look left, right and left again before crossing a street at a crosswalk or corner.
Walk on well light streets.
Obey all traffic signals and rules of the road.
Trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods.
Carry emergency change to make a telephone call if needed.
Approach only homes that have their front porch light on.
Accept treats only at the front door. Never enter the home of a stranger.
Never eat treats before getting home. Allow your parents to inspect all candy first.

SECURE YOUR HOME...

Prepare for trick-or-treaters by lighting the house well.
Restrain dogs and other animals.
Remove obstacles from the front yard.
Give individually wrapped candy or treats.

October Safety tips

2011-10-06T22:51:00.000-05:00

Here are some items to check during the month of October
Fire· Replace smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries. A working smoke alarm should be placed on every level of the home and every bedroom.
· Test detectors monthly to make sure that they are working properly.
· Replace detectors that are 10 or more years old.
· Discuss with your family fire safety, your emergency escape and meeting place plan.
· You might even try a drill.
· Have your home heating system tested for proper operation and CO2 (carbon monoxide) at safe levels. Every home should have a carbon monoxide alarm near every sleeping area.
· Replace or clean (if cleanable) forced air furnace air filters.
· Visually check fire extinguisher pressure. Replace unit if pressure is low.
Auto safety checks
Ready your vehicle for winter
· Check all fluids, oil, coolant and windshield washer, replace as required.
Check tire pressure when tires are cold, Inflate tires to the recommended pressure.
· Properly inflated tires will increase traction, fuel mileage, and will wear longer.
· Replace windshield wiper blades.
· Purchase a good window scraper/brush.
· Replace tires, belts and hoses as needed.
· Get an engine tune up.
· Check battery and clean terminals.
· Pack an emergency safety kit for the trunk.
Blanket, Extra clothing, gloves, hat, Snack food,
Jumper cables, Small shovel
Flashlight with new batteries
Kitty litter or ice bite for emergency traction
Prepare yourself for winter driving
· Start out a little earlier for your trip.
· Slow down.
· Leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front.
· Stay calm, watch for ice and slippery conditions.

October/ November Neighborhood watch meeting

2011-10-06T10:23:00.000-05:00

Tuesday, October 11, Jack Barrett owner of BDC Gunroom, will be speaking about how to buy a gun and how to be trained to use it.. The meeting starts at 6:30 and ends around 8pm. The meeting is located at the Wallace Ave Baptist Church, entrance is around back. Everyone is welcome and we hope to see you there.

On November 5, we will be having our fall clean up and cook out starting at 8am - 1pm. on the East side of the Wallace Ave Baptist Church. The cookout starts at 4pm located at 801 W. Ford. Please bring pop and chips. Please contact Della Hutton at 273-2829 for more information.

Back to School Safety

2011-08-11T10:15:00.000-05:00

Bus Stops
• Know your bus number.
• Stay in a group while waiting for the
bus.
• Do not play in the street. Stay on the
sidewalk or grass.
• Wait for the bus to completely stop
before approaching it.
• Look both ways before crossing the
street to get on the bus.
• Stay seated while on the bus and keep
hands and head inside the windows.
• If someone offers you a ride, say NO.
• A parent could be at the bus stop
before and after school for extra safety.

Biking To School
• Bright colored clothing will make you more
visible to drivers.
• Always wear a bicycle helmet.
• Backpacks should be tight on the upper back
and not dragging on the rear tire.
• Respect traffic lights and stop signs.
• Ride on the right, going the same direction as
traffic.
• Use appropriate hand signals.
For Parents … Vehicle Traffic
• While driving, be more aware of the speed
limits in your neighborhood and around
schools.
• Observe the sides of the roadway, watching for
children walking and biking.
• Give children right-of-way in crosswalks and
school zones.
• Avoid backing your vehicle at schools.
• Children should exit to the right side of the
vehicle.
• Do not leave until your child is completely on
school property.

House fire listed as 600 W kirk

2011-08-10T22:36:00.001-05:00

9:45 structure fire on the corner of Popular and Pottenger. This house has been vacant for several years. The back part of the home was on fire as well as the pool. Several of the fire trucks were called in. I will try to post some Pict's. We also had a car fire just down the street about 3 weeks ago it was a mechanical problem.

photos by Anita

Teaching you children about 911

2011-06-03T13:02:00.000-05:00

The three-digit telephone number "9-1-1" has been designated as the "Universal Emergency Number," for citizens throughout the United States to request emergency assistance.

Remember that you don't need any money to call 9-1-1 on any pay phone.

Stay calm and Speak clearly
Listen carefully to the Dispatchers questions and answer each question carefully.
Verbally answer all questions. Remember the Dispatcher cannot see your hand or head gestures, signs or motions.
State your emergency.
State your address - IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO VERIFY THE ADDRESS
STAY ON THE LINE
Do not hang up until the Dispatcher tells you it is OK to do so. They may need to ask additional questions regarding the emergency or an EMS dispatcher may give your instructions to help stabilize the patient before the ambulance gets to your location.
Follow the instructions of the Dispatcher and remain calm.
If you can, stay by the phone in case the 9-1-1 call-taker needs to call you back.

Here are some of the questions the dispatcher may ask you if you are reporting a crime in progress:
Give a brief description of what occurred.
Where exactly did the incident occur? Include building and room/area.
How long ago did the incident occur?
Did the suspect(s) have any weapons?
Which direction was the suspect headed?
Was the suspect on foot or in a vehicle?
What did the suspect(s) look like? Describe each suspect one at a time.
Gender
Race
Age
Height; Weight
Hair Color; Length
Clothing
Glasses/Facial Hair
Was the suspect carrying anything?
Vehicle Description, Color, Make, Model, License Plate

To help your child remember important numbers, keep a current list of lifeline numbers next to the phone. Print it in big letters so that if your child still has difficulty identifying the numbers, they can just look at the numbers and locate them on the keypad.

Have your child practice on an unplugged phone. They can dial 911 and you can be the call-taker. Ask them questions about the pretend incident. Do this kind of role-playing repeatedly. Kids like make-believe and repetition.

If you are teaching your children about 9-1-1, consider the following:

First, it is important that your child be taught their address and telephone number.
Secondly, make sure your child can physically reach at least one telephone. Wall mounted telephones can be unreachable for really small children.
Discuss with your child any situations that may be unique to them. This could include an elderly live-in relative; younger sibling; or any other unique factor that the child might encounter.
The 911 service is for emergencies. It is important to teach your child not to play with or misuse 9-1-1
Always refer to the number as "nine-one-one" not "nine-eleven." In an emergency your child may be confused when they can't find the "eleven" button on your telephone.

If you would like to arrange to have your child call 9-1-1 for real, as part of your training program, please call the dispatch center at 273-2121 and let the dispatcher know you are training your child about 9-1-1. Ask the dispatcher if they have time to handle a 9-1-1 test call from your child before you place that 9-1-1 call.

STORM SHELTERS IN SHAWNEE

2011-05-24T10:34:00.003-05:00

The following are our local storm shelter locations.
Boy Scout Park- Pesotum and Main
Shawnee City Hall- 16 W Ninth
Swquoyah School - Independence and Sequoyah
Shawnee Fire Station #3 MacArthur and Oklahoma
The Sac and Fox tribe has an underground shelter behind the shopping area at 45th and Kickapoo streets.

Difference between a storm warning and watch
A tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted or has been detected by radar. Take shelter immediately.
A tornado watch means that tornado's are possible.

SUSPECT DESCRIPTION

2011-05-20T14:01:00.000-05:00

How to Describe a Suspect and other conditions.
Location information is critical:

Observe where you are and the exact location of the crime. Try to remember if you have ever seen the suspect in the area before.
Note the time as precisely as possible.
Observe if the suspect is carrying a weapon and, if so, what kind.
If the suspect leaves the scene, note the direction of flight.

If the suspect is in a vehicle, note as much of the following information as possible:
Type of vehicle: was it a truck, van, car. Its color; make and model; condition of vehicle {was it dirty, damaged, ect.}; and if you can get it the license plate numbers.
Also watch for decoys or accomplices.

A variety of general descriptions about the suspect should be noted:

Build: was he or she slim, muscular, husky, fat, etc.
Estimate of age
Sex
Estimate of weight
National origin
Height: use your own height, or some other standard measure to use as a comparison

Facial information is also important:

Hair: the color, style, passable wig
Eyes: the color, shape
Nose: was it long, wide, flat, etc.
Ears: were they protruding or flat against the head
Mouth: were they thin, full, did they turn up or down
Chin: what was the shape: round, oval, pointed, square, double chin, or dimpled.
Complexion: did he or she have acne, pockmarks
Facial hair: was he clean shaven, unshaven, have a beard, mustache, or goatee

Is that a Drug House

2011-05-18T10:07:00.000-05:00

Is That A Drug House?
If we are going to stop crime and drugs from taking over our neighborhoods, we must all work together as a team. Without your help and assistance, local law enforcement officers face many restrictions. Your involvement is the key to stopping crime.

Do you have a drug house in your neighborhood?
Drug houses don't just happen in other neighborhoods. There are drug houses in all types of neighborhoods. There are four things that make a drug house:

Product
Buyer
Seller
Location
Most neighborhoods have very little control over Product, Buyer, or Seller. Drug dealers look for locations where neighbors do not communicate and isolate themselves. This makes it easy to intimidate those neighbors that do notice drug activity. Drug dealers like neighborhoods that say "It can't happen here". Money is a key element for the drug dealer. If they establish a drug house in a neighborhood where kids and adults have money to buy drugs, business will thrive.

What are the warning signs of drug activity in the neighborhood?
Do any of these sound familiar?

Excessive foot traffic to and from a house or property
Loitering in or around a house
Frequent and unusual traffic patterns such as Stop-Enter-Leave
Threats of intimidation connected to a residence
Open exchange of drugs and money
Gang activity in the neighborhood
Graffiti on structures in the area
Prevention is the best way to stop drug houses
You can reduce the chance that a drug house moves into your neighborhood. Get to know your neighbors. Meet and know your Police Officers. As problems develop in the neighborhood, work with law enforcement to resolve them quickly.

What should you do if there is a drug house in your neighborhood?
One of the tools of the drug dealer is intimidation. There are safety in numbers.

log all activity connected to the suspected drug house
Talk to a Shawnee Police Officer and give the information to him.
Speak with property owners about problems that the tenants are causing for the neighbors. If you are having problems, the property owner is probably having problems too.
Report all problems to the appropriate agency. Police, Fire, Public Works are just some of the agencies that you may call with problems.

Gun Safety

2011-05-15T18:36:00.000-05:00

Teaching your child about gun safety is your responsibility. Teach your child that he or she must not touch a gun in your home or those of their friends homes. Talking openly about gun safety with your child is usually more effective than just ordering them leave them alone. Kids are curious, uniformed children are likely to get hurt! Teach them the following rules about guns.

Stop! Never assume that the gun is a toy.
Don't Touch!
Leave the Area!
Tell an Adult! If the gun is found outside the police should be called as soon as possable and directed to the scene.
Treat every gun as if it is loaded and ready to fire, even if you know it is empty.

Let them know that guns are capable of destruction, bodily injury, and possible death if misused.

Store guns somewhere so that they are inaccessible to children and others. Keep them locked up. With the keys for the gun and ammunition in a different area from where they are stored.

If your child knows where your gun is teach them not to tell their friends and schoolmates that there are firearms in the house.

Use a gun trigger lock. And Teach your children not to handle guns without your supervision.

Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. Where if the gun discharged nobody would get hurt. A safe direction is to point it at the ground and to the side.

Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. Keep it alongside the frame.

Always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use, and Store the ammunition apart from the gun.

Never allow horseplay even if you know that it is unloaded.

Discuss gun safety with other parents if your child spends time in their homes.

AT SCHOOL

If your child hears another child saying that they are going to bring a gun to school tell them that is is very important to tell a teacher, the principal or another responsible adult. These threats should be taken seriously.

EDDIE EAGLE GUN SAFETY

http://www.nrahq.org/safety/eddie/index.asp

How well do you know your neighbors?

2011-05-03T13:47:00.000-05:00

How many of your neighbors do you know by name?
Would you watch over your neighbors home if they were away?
Would you bring them food if one of their family members were sick, or had died? Would you even know?
Would you call the police if someone was breaking into their home or car? Or would you even care!
If you were in the middle of an emergency do you know who you could turn to for help?
Do you know your neighbors kids, their dog?

If your answer is, I don't Know who my neighbors are! Than it is time for you to go outside and meet your neighbors. Here are some suggestions on what you could do to meet the challenge of meeting your next door neighbor.

A smile can go a long way. It makes a person feel noticed and acknowledged, a smile can brighten up someones otherwise down day.

Say Hello, it only takes a moment to say the five letter word.

This summer complement your neighbor on their yard. You could take them a cold drink of ice water while they are mowing the yard.

Once you get to know your neighbor share a meal with them it doesn't have to be a full course dinner just a sandwich and chips will do. Or you could invite them over this summer for barbecue. Or it could just be cookies and coffee.

Join or start a walking group. This will allow you to see your other neighbors and get to know who lives where.

Knowing your neighbors can bring a sense of security. It is nice to be able to have some one to go to for help or being able to help your friend. Leaving for vacation, get to know your neighbor. Get involved with those around you, know who they are, look out for them and they will look out for you, smile and say hello, and they will respond in kind. You never know when you might meet your very best friend. When you know who is living around you, if you get to know them well, you will see that you feel safer at night.

How to be a better neighbor:

Be considerate, don't play loud music or make excessive noise late at night.
Offer to pick up their paper and keep an eye on their place when they are gone.
Let them know if something is suspicious near their home.

Where to recycle in Shawnee

2011-05-01T09:51:00.000-05:00

Books
Faith 7 301 S. Kennedy
Shawnee Public Library 101 N. Philadelphia
South Central Industries 130 N. Louisa
Public Safety Center HWY 177

Cans (aluminum)
Allied Recycling Homeland at Independence
Ball Pipe 701 E. Hardesty Road
Faith 7 301 S. Kennedy
South Central Workshop 130 N. Louisa

Cardboard
Faith 7 301 S. Kennedy
South Central Workshop 130 N. Louisa

Household items, books, clothing, accessories, furniture, small appliances (clean and in working order)
Salvation Army Thrift Store 330 E. 9th
Goodwill Industries 733 E. Independence

Plastic containers (milk jugs, soda bottles)
Allied Recycling, Inc. Homeland at Independence

Paper (newspaper and office paper)
Allied Recycling Homeland at Independence
Faith 7 301 S. Kennedy
Staples 4737 N Kickapoo
South Central Workshop 130 N. Louisa
Shawnee Senior Center 400 N. Bell

Safety At Home

2010-11-02T23:44:00.012-05:00

•Keep doors and windows locked; this is the first step in staying safe. Make sure the doors are made of solid wood or metal, not hollow core doors. Check the window locks, to make sure they are in good working order. Place a wood or metal bar in the lower track of sliding glass doors, for added protection.

Install a security system or a life alert program. The life alert program is not just for sick or elderly people; it's a great program for those who live alone. It is a monthly program that monitors your well being.

Install a motion detector outdoors, to light the walkways and sides of the house. Make sure the porch lights are working.

Trim bushes and plants in front of doors and windows; they can offer a good hiding place for a burglar.

Get a dog and keep it indoors with you. A dog can keep you safe by warning you of intruders.

•List only your last name and first initial in the phone book.
•Reprogram the answering machine to add the word "we."
•Never leave ladders or tools within easy reach, as a burglar can use them to break in.
•Never leave a spare key under the mat or flowerpot.
•Never allow an uninvited person into your home; make an excuse if necessary.
•Always check credentials of repairmen, and call their place of business to verify who they are.

recycle,recycle,recycle

2010-10-27T22:13:00.003-05:00

OK, I know some where here in my posts I have covered Recycling but I can't remember where, lol, so here is some updated info for ya.

Homeland parking lot located at Kickapoo and Independence or 700 E. 45Th. both of these locations are open from 8-5 Mon.-Thurs. but they are closed from 12-1 pm for lunch I guess. and from 8:30-12pm on Fri. & Sat. You will have to bring your Sanitation bill, IE; water bill and your Photo ID.

Oh ya, look under recycle

BOO-ON-BELL

2010-10-23T07:38:00.000-05:00

Fall Family Fun Day Downtown Shawnee, Presented by: Safe Events For Families October 23, 2010, From: 10:00A.M. - 9:00P.M.
http://www.safeventsforfamilies.org/

Stranger Safety for Kids

2010-06-05T09:52:00.000-05:00

"Never talk to strangers!" That's not all kids strangers are not only on the streets but on the Internet, at the parks, in our shopping malls, basically everywhere a child goes there is a stranger.
Strangers look like normal people, a stranger could be a man or woman a boy or girl. They could be short or tall, skinny or fat. Most strangers are nice but some are mean. A stranger is someone you don't know very well or know at all. Someone that you have never seen before or never met before, or an acquaintance of the family who knows you by name but that you don't know.
A stranger that has bad intentions could try to coax a child into a vehicle by saying that the child's parent is sick or in the hospital.
Please, tell your child that you will never send a stranger to get them. If you have no choice, in advance before that situation arises, agree on a code word with your child that the person must know before your child goes with them.

You should never accept a ride from a stranger, Never get into someones car that you or your parents don't know. Unless they know the code word.

If a stranger asks for help? Say no- leave immediately, step back while their talking to you, and don’t approach cars, vans or trucks. Tell your parents immediately.

If someone offers you candy, a present, money, or a ride? Ask your parents and adult in charge before accepting anything
Follows you to or from school or the playground. Go to a safe place right away. Be ready to run.

Approaches you in the store or what if you get lost while shopping? Look for a store employee wearing a uniform and name tag, remain at the front of the store until your parent comes to you.

Tries to grab you or says, “Come with me, or else” begin running to a safe place with people and lights, screaming, Stranger as you run. Report it to your parents or trusted adult immediately.

If someone tries to get you into their car FIGHT, SCREAM FIRE, BITE, KICK, JAB A PEN IN THE EYE OR UP THE NOSE, THROW ROCKS, OR ANY OTHER OBJECTS, THEN RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN BACK TO SCHOOL IF YOU ARE CLOSE, YELL ALL THE WAY IF YOU HAVE TO.

If someone tries to harm you remember what they looked like.
How tall. hair color, was it short,long,curly,short,. about how old was he or she. Did this person have any scars tattoos or birthmarks? What type of clothing remember the color and descriptions.

Summer Fire Safety

2010-06-04T13:26:00.000-05:00

Fires can be prevented. A few easy steps can save your life!

Barbecue Grills
Keep grills at least 10 feet from siding and eaves.
Never use a grill in a garage or carport.
Before using a gas grill, check hoses and connections for leaks.
Check that the venturi tubes-where gas and air mix-are not blocked.
Never overfill a propane tank.
Consumers should only use propane tanks that have a three-pronged valve: this is a sign that there is an overfill protection device in the tanks.
When lighting a charcoal grill, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add fluid after the fire is started.
To dispose of hot coals, soak them with water and stir to make sure the fire is out.
Never put coals in plastic, wood, or paper containers.
Wear snug-fitting clothing when grilling.
Fireworks
For safety's sake, leave fireworks to the professionals.
Stay back at least 500 feet from professional fireworks displays.
If you do use fireworks, light them outdoors, away from dry grass.
Always have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby.
Never let children light or play with fireworks.
Wear snug-fitting clothing while lighting fireworks.

New polycarts

2010-06-03T09:56:00.002-05:00

Central Disposal LLC to provide the City of Shawnee residents with collection and disposal of their household solid waste and recycling. This contract will come into effect as of July 1st, 2010.

Allied Waste will be picking up their polycarts on your last service day this month. More information will be attached as a flyer to your polycart. Please see the following schedule to see when your green polycart will be picked up:

Thursday customers: June 24th
Friday customers: June 25th
Monday customers: June 28th
Tuesday customers: June 29th
Wednesday customers: June 30th

Central Disposal will start delivering your new “navy blue” polycart the week of June 21st. After your current polycart is removed you can start to utilize your new “navy blue” polycart provided by Central Disposal.
City of Shawnee web site.

ALERT! ALERT1 HOT CARS

2010-06-02T12:40:00.000-05:00

Safety Tips
To keep your kids safe:
Don't leave them in a car, which can quickly heat up, especially on a hot, sunny day.
Always lock your car and secure the keys so that your kids can't get to them.
Warn your kids about playing in the car by themselves without adult supervision.
Install a trunk release mechanism, so that they can't get trapped in the trunk.
Get your kids out of the car first, and then worry about getting the groceries, etc., out of the car when you get home.
Make sure that child car providers and day care workers have a plan to make sure that kids aren't left in the day care providers car or van.

If you are afraid that you might leave your sleeping infant or toddler in their car seat when you get out of the car, place a reminder on the dashboard.
Also be on alert for cars that might have an unattended child left inside. If you see a child alone in a car, be sure to call 911 and help make sure the child gets out as soon as possible.

In addition to the risk of being abducted if they are left alone in a car, on a typical summer day, the temperature inside a car (even with the windows rolled down a little) can quickly rise above 120 to 140 degrees. Even on a relatively mild day, the temperature inside a car can get above 100 degrees. At those temperatures, kids are at great risk for heat stroke, which can lead to a high fever, dehydration, seizures, stroke and death.
If you don't think that it can happen to you or your kids, consider these descriptions from the death certificates of children from 1998 that were published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:
A 9 month old died after being 'left strapped in child safety seat in a sweltering minivan for two hours - misunderstanding between child's parents resulted in the child being left alone in the van; one parent believed infant was at home with other'

A 6 month old 'baby died when accidentally left in hot car for 3 hrs, died when outside 90-degree temperatures rose to 130 degrees inside closed car, parents thought the other had carried the baby from the car to crib'

A 34 month old 'toddler who recently learned how to open a car door apparently climbed inside family station wagon while parent and sibling were in house'

A 23 month old died when a 'relative babysitting child, put child in car for trip to store, went back in house having forgotten something, was distracted by something on television, sat on couch to watch, fell asleep, woke up two hours later'

A 2 year old died after a 'parent left child in car after returning home from errand - was left for more than an hour'

A 2 year old 'child apparently slipped away from parents and siblings, fell asleep atop blanket in unlocked car in driveway of home, oldest sibling found child 40 minutes later'

Always Always thank about your children first!

Crime Wave

2010-06-01T14:20:00.002-05:00

seven Burglaries in our watch area 5/5 - 6/1

Spring Clean

2010-03-29T13:41:00.000-05:00

This Spring you no longer have to take your bulk waste to different locations around the City, you can put it at the curbside! Allied Waste and the City of Shawnee are working together this Spring to provide CurbSide Bulk Waste Pick-Up in April of 2010.

2010 Spring Clean Up Schedule

IF YOUR POLYCART PICK UP IS ON:
YOUR SPRING CLEAN UP DAY IS:

MONDAY
Wednesday April 7, 2010

Earthquake Hits Shawnee

2010-02-27T16:29:00.003-06:00

Did you all feel the Earthquake that hit us here in Shawnee? About 4:24 PM Saturday, February 28, 2010. You could feel the house moving back and forth there were two waves that came through. Interesting because I was on the computer looking up more info. on the Earthquake that hit Chili and the Tsunami that is on it's way to Hawaii.

CHILD SAFETY SEAT CHECK-UP

2010-02-27T08:25:00.001-06:00

Saturday, March 6th
1:00pm – 3:00pm

Shawnee Fire Station #3
306 East MacArthur Street
Shawnee, OK 74804

There will be a limited number of child safety seats for eligible families.
Required: proof of government assistance, i.e. WIC, food stamps, etc and $10 co-pay.

Safe Kids Oklahoma
A program of
Oklahoma Highway Safety Office
(405) 271-5695

recent crime in the area

2010-02-27T08:02:00.004-06:00

BURGLARY-RESIDENTIAL at 1012 N JEFFERSON PL.
2/20 Eluding police - Kirk
2/19 domestic - Overland Ct.
2/16 petit larceny - Pottenger
2/3 public drunk - W. Ford
2/3 warrants/misdemeanor arrest - N Kickapoo
2/18 juvenile runaway - W Wood
2/13 larceny from a house - N Chapman Ave
2/14 larceny from a house - W Benedict St.
2/20 burglary 2nd degree building - W benedict St.
2/6 burglary 2nd degree building - W Benedict St.
BURGLARY-IP at 4309 N POTTENGER AVE SHAWNEE

K2 "synthetic" marijuana

2010-02-15T19:51:00.006-06:00

K2 contains the same active ingredient as marijuana. However, the synthetic cannabinoids in K2 are made in a lab and are not restricted by law.

K2 is a legal, smokable, herbal drug with chemical properties very similar to THC, the active ingredient in marijuana. Staff at Clemson University first created the drug that was until now primarily used as incense and plant food.

K2 is also addictive and produces side effects similar to marijuana.

Some people that have smoked K2 complain or feel the following anxiety, agitation, elevated blood pressure and fast heart rate after smoking the drug.

K2 is packaged and sold in four varieties in three gram packages bags for $15 to $30 a piece depending on what type of mixture.
Known as K2 Summit, K2 Blonde, K2 Citron, K2 Standard
Contained with in the mixture of K2 standard includes the following extracts and herbs: canavalia rosea,clematis vitalba,nelumbo nucifera, pedicularis grandifolia, heimia salicifolia, leonurus sibiricus and ledum palustre.

This was a hard one to find out more information on. Kansas is in the process of making it illegal in their state. The use of the K2 mixture was only recently introduced into the United States, although it has been popular in Great Britain since 2008 and was introduced in Germany about three years ago.

February is teen dating and violence awareness month

2010-02-04T09:39:00.003-06:00

Raise awareness for teen dating violence by wearing your heart on your sleeve the whole month of February. Make your own heart or put on a heart sticker.

http://www.haveaheartcampaign.org/heart-of-the-matter.html

http://www.athinline.org/ covers the subjects of sexting, constant messaging, spying, digital disrespect, and cruelty on cell phones.

http://www.teendvmonth.org/about-teen-dating-violence.html National resource center for Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Your Relationship is Healthy If…
You trust your partner.
You treat each other the way you want to be treated, and accept each other’s opinions and interests.
You each feel physically safe in the relationship.
Your partner likes your friends and encourages you to spend time with them and wants to include them in his/her life as well as yours.
You make important decisions together.
Your partner understands when you spend time away from him or her.
You don’t feel responsible for protecting your partner’s reputation or for covering for his/her mistakes.
Your partner encourages you to enjoy different activities (like joining the volleyball team or football team, running for student government, or being in a play) and helps you reach your goals.
Your partner likes you for who you are – not just for what you look like.
You are not afraid to say what you think and why you think that way. You like to hear how your partner thinks, and don’t always have to agree.
You have both a friendship and a physical attraction.
You don’t have to be with your partner 24/7.
Your partner doesn’t force sexual activity or insist that you do something that makes you uncomfortable.

Red Flags for Abusive Relationships
The following is a list of warning signs for potentially abusive relationships. They are presented as guidelines and cues to pay attention to, not as judgments on the worth of the other person.
Question relationships with partners who:
Abuse alcohol or other drugs.
Have a history of trouble with the law, get into fights, or break and destroy property.
Don’t work or go to school.
Blame you for how they treat you, or for anything bad that happens.
Abuse siblings, other family members, children or pets.
Put down people, including your family and friends, or call them names.
Are always angry at someone or something.
Try to isolate you and control whom you see or where you go.
Nag you or force you to be sexual when you don’t want to be.
Cheat on you or have lots of partners.
Are physically rough with you (push, shove, pull, yank, squeeze, restrain).
Take your money or take advantage of you in other ways.
Accuse you of flirting or “coming on” to others or accuse you of cheating on them.
Don’t listen to you or show interest in your opinions or feelings. . .things always have to be done their way.
Ignore you, give you the silent treatment, or hang up on you.
Lie to you, don’t show up for dates, maybe even disappear for days.
Make vulgar comments about others in your presence
Blame all arguments and problems on you.
Tell you how to dress or act.
Threaten to kill themselves if you break up with them, or tell you that they cannot live without you.
Experience extreme mood swings. . .tell you you’re the greatest one minute and rip you apart the next minute.
Tell you to shut up or tell you you’re dumb, stupid, fat, or call you some other name (directly or indirectly).
Compare you to former partners.

Some other cues that might indicate an abusive relationship might include:
You feel afraid to break up with them.
You feel tied down, feel like you have to check-in.
You feel afraid to make decisions or bring up certain subjects so that the other person won’t get mad.
You tell yourself that if you just try harder and love your partner enough that everything will be just fine.
You find yourself crying a lot, being depressed or unhappy.
You find yourself worrying and obsessing about how to please your partner and keep them happy.
You find the physical or emotional abuse getting worse over time.

What are your rights in a relationship?
To express your opinions and have them be respected
To have your needs be as important as your partner’s needs
To grow as an individual in your own way
To change your mind
To not take responsibility for your partner’s behavior
To not be physically, emotionally, verbally or sexually abused
To break up with or fall out of love with someone and not be threatened

National Resources
Intimate Partner Violence
National Domestic Violence Hotline Hotline advocates are available for victims and anyone calling on their behalf to provide crisis intervention, safety planning, information and referrals to agencies in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Assistance is available in English and Spanish with access to more than 140 languages through interpreter services. 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) (or 1-800-787-3224 TTY)

National Center for Victims of Crime: Dating Violence Resource Center Online resources include fact sheets, tip sheets for teens, parents, service providers, school administrators, and anyone else concerned about dating violence. www.ncvc.org/dvrc

http://www.ncavp.org/AVPs/default.aspx National colition of Anti-Violence Programs

Recent crime in the area

2009-11-09T08:04:00.003-06:00

DRUG VIOLATION at 1001 N KENNEDY AVE SHAWNEE Nov 6
VANDALISM at 615 S CHAPMAN AVE SHAWNEE Nov 6
LARCENY at 1001 N KENNEDY AVE SHAWNEE Nov 6
ASSAULT at 1040 N DRAPER AVE SHAWNEE Nov 6
LARCENY at 507 W FORD ST SHAWNEE Nov 6
LARCENY OF AUTO October 17
THEFT, Petty Larceny N Kennedy Ave October 15
LARCENY OF A HOME on Ford Street October 27
ASSAULT AND BATTERY at W Wallace October 24
PETTY LARCENY at W Dewey October 20

November Neighborhood Watch

2009-11-09T08:01:00.003-06:00

The November Neighborhood Watch will take place at the Benedict Street Market on Benedict, Starting at 6:30 on Tuesday the 10Th. Hope to see you there.

What a neighborhood watch can do.

2009-11-04T09:24:00.000-06:00

The neighborhood watch creates a greater sense of security and well-being because you know that your neighbor will be looking out for you and you for them. The neighborhood watch can reduce the risk of you becoming a crime victim. Vandalism, graffiti, and personal crimes can be decreased or become extinct in your neighborhood.
When you know the neighborhood and your neighbors you learn what is normal and not so normal for your area.
You can receive training on how to protect yourself.
Your neighborhood can post neighborhood watch signs on your neighborhood streets to let criminals know that you and your neighbors have their eyes and ears on them. That your neighborhood will not be an easy target.

What is a neighborhood watch?

2009-11-03T14:41:00.000-06:00

A Neighborhood Watch is a program that increases the safety and sense of community in your neighborhood. The program teaches you to look out for your own and your neighbors safety, your home and those of your neighbors.

The program teaches you and helps you:

To recognize and report suspicious and criminal activity.

About home and vehicle security.

Makes your neighborhood less attractive to criminals.

Increases your personal safety.

To better protect your family.

Build stronger relationships with law enforcement.

Tips on how to start a neighborhood watch

2009-11-03T14:39:00.002-06:00

If you need more information the best place to start would be to go to the USAOnWatch.org website they have the information to get you started.

Talk with your neighbors to find out if they are interested in forming a neighborhood watch. Tell them that their participation is needed to combat the problems in the neighborhood.
Inform them about the crime in the neighborhood.
Inquire as to which evenings would be a good time to meet to talk about the problems in your neighborhood.
Exchange phone numbers. Tell your neighbors that you will notify them when the meeting is scheduled.
1. Determine the watch area. What streets will be covered in your neighborhood watch.
2. Obtain a meeting place. It could be in the local church. Or the local school. Somewhere close to your neighborhood.
3. Identify the crime in your neighborhood area that needs attention.
4. Contact your local Police Department they can also help you get a watch started.

WNW Program Ideas

2009-11-03T13:05:00.000-06:00

SAFE HOUSES for children such as the McGruff House or Block House.
Youth Escort Service is one way young adults can assist an older person who needs assistance or companionship for any reason.
Beautification Projects
Fire Prevention Programs and topics such as CPR, disaster preparedness, and fire safety.
Ident-A-Youth - The Shawnee Pd can assist us in fingerprinting children which can hasten the Identification of missing children.
Auto Bumper Decal- Program to identify vehicles belonging to residents within the Watch area. The basic purpose of the bumper decal system is to alert police patrol and concerned community members about vehicles which do not belong in the Watch area. Allowing appropriate action to be taken when necessary.
Warm lines - Set up by members willing to spend time talking to children who become lonely after returning from school to an empty home. It can be a link between "latchkey" children and a helping adult should an emergency arise.
House Sitting

Starting a neighborhood watch

2009-11-03T12:16:00.004-06:00

I would like to start a neighborhood watch in my area, what does it take to start one?

First, you must have the desire to stop crime in you area.
You have to make a commitment to keep going when you feel that no one wants to help.
It is most important that you get to know the people on your street. Make an effort to talk to them. Without getting to know your neighbors no matter what you do if you don't know them a watch will not stand the test of time.
Get together with some of you neighbors and decide what area your neighborhood watch will cover ie: What blocks, streets.
Have a meeting space in mind. You have people that want to be in the neighborhood watch so you need a place to go. Like a Neighborhood Church, if it is in the summer you could even meet at the local park.
Discuss the types of crime in the Watch area. Above all do not take crime on, on your own.
Notify your local Police Department, they should help you get the information needed to get you started on your way to a crime free area.
Please see other blog posts for more information.

Why Restorative Justice

2009-10-28T13:06:00.006-05:00

What is Restorative Justice- Restorative justice is concerned with healing victims' wounds, restoring offenders to law-abiding lives, and repairing harm done to the community.

Offender’s Role
In the existing criminal justice system, offenders may play a passive role and not be held accountable to right the wrong they have committed. However, in the Restorative Justice process, offenders become active participants in reparation efforts. Offenders are held directly accountable to victims and are confronted with the personal impact of their crime. Restorative Justice requires them to make amends to the victim and community in whatever way possible.
It can help the criminal understand the impact of crime on victims, community, and society.

This requires the assumption that crimes or violations are committed against real individuals, rather than against the state. Restorative justice, therefore, advocates restitution to the victim by the offender rather than retribution by the state against the offender.

Through Restorative Justice, victims are offered opportunities to regain the sense of empowerment they may have lost as a result of crime. Victims can express how they were personally impacted by crime and their resulting needs.

The role of the community also changes dramatically with Restorative Justice. The community is responsible for supporting and assisting victims, holding offenders accountable and ensuring opportunities for offenders to make amends. Communities are also responsible for addressing the underlying factors and influences of crime. Also, that we must give offenders the opportunity to right their wrongs and redeem themselves, in their own eyes and in the eyes of the community.

RESOURCES

http://www.doc.state.mn.us/rj/publications/facilityrjgroupconf.htm

http://www.restorativejustice.org/

http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Restorative+justice%3a+the+concept.(Restorative+Justice)-a020438182

Crime in the area Sept 19, 09

2009-09-19T22:48:00.003-05:00

SHOTS FIRED at BENEDICT & KICKAPOO ST SHAWNEE http://is.gd/3tmqM about 1 hour ago from API

SHOTS FIRED at 507 W FORD ST SHAWNEE http://is.gd/3sYJK about 5 hours ago from API

SUSPICIOUS PERSON at 602 W KIRK ST SHAWNEE http://is.gd/3sN5G about 7 hours ago from API

FOLLOWUP at 558 W KIRK ST SHAWNEE http://is.gd/3sL3m about 8 hours ago from API

SHOTS FIRED at 548 W KIRK SHAWNEE http://is.gd/3sJzq about 8 hours ago from API

MVA-NON-INJURY at KICKAPOO SPUR ST & KENNEDY SHAWNEE http://is.gd/3skgd about 12 hours ago from API

ASSAULT at 1122 W WOOD ST SHAWNEE http://is.gd/3rIdk about 18 hours ago from API

New Mexican Drug laws

2009-09-14T14:05:00.008-05:00

TRY TO KEEP YOUR KIDS OUT OF MEXICO DURING SCHOOL BREAKS! now not only can they get alcohol they can now take drugs legally.

Under siege by drug traffickers, Mexico took a bold and controversial step last week when it opted to no longer prosecute those carrying relatively small quantities of marijuana, cocaine, heroin and other drugs. Instead, people found with drugs for “personal and immediate use,” according to the law, will be referred to free treatment programs where they will be considered patients, not criminals.

This new Mexican law is part of a growing trend across Latin America to treat drug use as a public health problem and make room in overcrowded prisons for violent traffickers rather than small-time users.

Portugal's similar law defines personal use as the equivalent of what one person would consume over 10 days. Police confiscate the drugs and the suspect must appear before a government commission, which reviews the person's drug consumption patterns. Users may be fined, sent for treatment or put on probation.

Foreigners caught with drugs still face arrest in Portugal, a measure to prevent drug tourism. This should have been a consideration in Mexico as well.

Should America consider the same type of law? Would it keep people out of prison who really don't need to be there because of their addiction's? Who, really wants to quit doing drugs but can't because they cannot afford treatment?

The law allows the state police to arrest those with up to 1,000 times the personal consumption amounts, people who would be considered dealers. Anyone with larger amounts would be seen as trafficking drugs, and they would be handed over to federal authorities.

Under the new law, a police search that turns up a half-gram of cocaine, the equivalent of about four lines, will not bring any jail time. The same applies for 5 grams of marijuana (about four cigarettes), 50 milligrams of heroin, 40 milligrams of methamphetamine or 0.015 milligrams of LSD.

The Bush administration criticized a similar bill proposed in Mexico in 2006, prompting then-President Vicente Fox to send it back to Congress. But Washington has stayed quiet this time, praising Calderon for his fight against drug cartels -- a struggle that has seen some 11,000 people killed since Calderon took office in 2006.

Shake and Bake Meth

2009-09-14T13:39:00.004-05:00

Also known as the "one pot" method, shake and bake meth is produced in a two-liter soda bottle. A few cold pills are mixed with common, but noxious, household chemicals and produces enough meth for the user to get a few hits. After the chemical reaction, what's left is a crystalline powder that users smoke, snort or inject.

This type of meth lab is really a mobile ticking time bomb. If the bottle is shaken the wrong way or if any oxygen gets inside of it. The bottle can explod into a giant fireball, touches off intense fires and releases drug ingredients that must be handled as toxic waste.

This is why the new "shake and bake" process is even more dangerous than the old makeshift meth labs.

Drug users are making meth while driving around in their cars and throwing the used plastic bottles, containing a poisonous brown and white sludge, along the highway.

If you come accross a discarded container used in one-pot (shake and bake) meth making do not touch it – contact the police department to discard it, as they will likely need to have a haz-mat team clean up the mess left behind.

Ok, so people are using coke bottles and such why not make the lids just snap on and not screw on!

Recent crime in our area

2009-08-04T08:33:00.002-05:00

7-8 public drunk, 7-12 warrant/misdemeanor, Ford, 7-12 malicious mischief, Wallace St.,
7-19 2nd Degree Burglary, W Ford St. 7-28, Larceny from a house, W Dewey St.

Suggested activities for the youth of Shawnee

2009-08-03T00:06:00.007-05:00

I have searched the web to come up with a few ideas for the youth of Shawnee that could be started here. These are just a few of the many that are out there. What is really needed is for the youth to speak up and let us as a community know what they would be interested in, what would keep them out of trouble, what would it take to keep you from drugs and alcohol. What do you feel that you need? Do you need #'s of people that you could talk to that would not be judgemental, Do you need a ride to a safe activity, Do you need help with school work and you don't want anyone to know? Do you need a place to hang out? Ok, so we have places and programs out there like this. What can the community of Shawnee do for you? Let us know, let me know and I will see what I can do to help I am only one person but sometimes that is all it takes.

City of South Burlington
Every Tuesday and Thursday after school students are invited to gather in the cafeteria and enjoy some of the activities provided. This includes everything from pool tables, ping pong, bumper pool, foosball, and air hockey. Along with games students are encouraged to finish homework and socialize with one another. There are often snacks available for a reasonable price, and fresh popcorn is always free. Some new additions to the program are a Flight Simulator game, Guitar Hero III, and Dance Dance Revolution.

Students who attend the program are required to register through the Recreation Department, and are asked to sign in and out when coming to and leaving the program. Students are supervised by members of the Recreation Department and the Police Department. Also on hand are High School Volunteers. The High School students volunteer their time to help mentor the younger kids by interacting with the games, helping out with homework, and socializing with the kids.

CSI CAMP

Every Summer members of the South Burlington Police Youth Services Unit put on a CSI (Crime Scene Investigation Camp), in conjunction with the Recreation Department. Campers learn skills such as crime scene photography, evidence collection, fingerprinting, and crash investigation skills. There are various hands on activities campers complete with the new skills they learn. Mock Crime Scenes and Car Accident Scenes are processed by campers in teams of fellow detectives.

NYC Department of Youth and Community Development

Teen ACTION programs allow youth between the ages of 13 and 21 to design and implement a meaningful service project that meets a need in their community. Teen ACTION promotes:
Appreciation for service and civic engagement
Life-skills and critical-thinking skills
Supportive relationships with caring adults
Commitment to academic achievement
Healthy behaviors

Beacons are school-based community centers serving children, youth, and adults. There are currently 80 Beacons located throughout New York City, operating in the afternoons and evenings, on weekends, during school holidays and vacation periods, and during the summer.Typical activities for youth include:
Literacy activities
Tutoring
High school/college prep
Math clubs
Photography
Basketball
Chess
Martial arts

The Out-of-School Time (OST) Program provides a mix of academic, recreational and cultural activities for young people (grades K-12) after school, during holidays and in the summer. Programs are free of charge and are located in every neighborhood across the City.
New York City's OST programs provide:
Safe programs in a supportive environment
A schedule that meets the needs of working parents
Separate programs for elementary, middle school, and high school students
Trained staff
Homework help
Healthy snacks

ICP and the Juggalo a gang or not!

2009-07-14T08:36:00.002-05:00

Insane Clown Posse - is a Hip-Hop group that performs hardcore music termed "horrorcore" it is known for it's dark and violent lyrics.

Insane Clown Posse is an underground rap group that got its start in Detroit in the early 1990s. The early days, Joe Bruce ("Violent J") and Joey Ustler("Shaggy 2 Dope") grew up in the nicer suburbs of Detroit, but were underprivileged. They grew up drinking a cheap soda popular in the Michigan area called Faygo. Even now, at concerts, the band often sprays Diet Faygo into the crowd.

ICP fans or followers are called Juggalos and Juggalettes. They don't see themselves as a gang, but as individuals. But by legal definition are considered a gang. Juggalos also identify themselves by the hatchetman logo and are known to carry hatchets and knives as weapons.

Juggalo and Juggalettes
The population of this group is mainly Caucasian.
The Juggalos can be identified by heavy clown make-up (sadistic wicked-type faces and jester style), tattoos, clothing, and specific music possessions.
They wear dark clothing, but do like to also dress in bright clown colors, dye their hair in bright colors, and wear Mohawks. They like to stand out and be noticed.

They tag areas with “ICP”, “Dark Lotus”, etc. They also have their own hand signs.

Juggalos are changing. If you were to meet a juggalo from back in 1995 and compare them to today's juggalos than you would see a totally different mind set.

A recent post from a Juggalo, "Im almost sick of calling myself a juggalo because of people being crazy and stupid my homie was killed by a juggalo because he thought he was a blood because he had all red on and he didn't see juggalo in white on his shirt. he thought he was part of a gang. being a juggalo isn't what it used to be people don't know what it means to be a juggalo anymore."

For more information on the Juggalo go to the http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Juggalo%20

So why the Tagging or graffiti? I still don't know.

The primary difference between gang graffiti and plain old tagger art, is that you can read gang graffiti clearly. When you can read the initials or name it’s usually gang graffiti, because they are doing it to make it clear that is their territory. On the other hand, elaborate designs in which individual letters can’t be discerned are often just marks of vandalism by people with an ego and a spray can. Quote

Graffiti on the wall now what

2009-07-13T23:56:00.001-05:00

Report it:

Report graffiti immediately.

If you see graffiti in progress, report it "DON'T TRY TO INTERVENE."

Take a photo of the graffiti. It may provide information that will lead to identification of the vandal.

Remove it:

Removing graffiti promptly is the best way to prevent it. Prompt, persistent removal usually results in a nearly zero rate of recourrence. Before any graffiti removal begins, however, find out whether the police want to photograph it as evidence.

Prevent it:

Rapid removal is one of the best ways to prevent future graffiti. Removing graffiti tells the vandals that people care about the community and that their work has little chance of being seen.

Choose paints and coatings to deter graffiti. Dark colors make graffiti harder to see.

Plant shrubs, or climbing vines to restrict access to tempting walls,

Use good lighting to deter vandals from popular graffiti sites.

Involve the media.

Gangs and Links

2009-07-13T00:23:00.001-05:00

Some of the Gangs that we have in Oklahoma

Westside 90's Crips, Playboy Gangsta Crips, Rollin 60 Crips- Started in 1966 in L.A., 107 Hoova Crips - comes from 10700 block of Hoover Street in Los Angeles, Hard Hoova Crips, Shotgun Crips, Rollin 20's Crips, Outlaw 30's Bloods, 456 Piru Blood, Juarito's, South Side Loco's, Grande Barrio Central - is the largest gang in the Oklahoma County Juvenile detention center.
Sureno, Nortenos, South Side Loco's - Is the largest gang in Oklahoma City

Gang Information Links:

Florida Department of Corrections - http://www.dc.state.fl.us/pub/gangs/index.html

Dealing With Gangs
http://www.dealingwithgangs.org/

Oklahoma Gang Investigators Association
http://www.ogia.net/index.htm

Gang Watchers
http://www.gangwatchers.org/gang-laws.html

All about gangs:
http://allaboutgangs.blogspot.com/2008/03/black-street-gangs-in-los-angeles.html

National Gang Center:
http://www.nationalgangcenter.gov/

Federal Bureau Of Investigation
http://www.fbi.gov/hq/cid/ngic/violent_gangs.htm

Hand signs - are used by gang members to show their gang affiliation. They create letters or numbers with their fingers and hands.

Light up the Neighborhood

2009-07-12T16:08:00.002-05:00

The benefits of leaving your porch light on all night far outweigh any cost considerations. This action lights up shadow areas that people hide in and is an effective deterrent to criminals who prefer to work in the dark. If every home puts a motion light up in their front and back yard, a suspect hopping fences to get away from
police can be tracked from the air and ground by the lights going off in succession. This is a good way to deter criminal activity.

Vandalism in the neighborhood

2009-07-12T15:55:00.000-05:00

The following streets were the target of vandalism late Saturday night or early Sunday morning.
W Benedict, N Chapman Ave, W Wallace and Jefferson Cir. Cars, street asphalt, homes and the Wallace Ave Baptist Church were hit with ICP and Juggalo graffiti

OF THE FOLLOWING AREAS WHAT WOULD YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT

2009-07-11T13:00:00.002-05:00

· School Violence Prevention
· Domestic Assault Awareness
· Auto Theft Prevention
· Crime Prevention in Your Home
· Community and Crime Prevention
· Internet Safety

· Stranger Safety
· Bike Safety
· Safe Driving

· Identity Theft
· What a Police Officer Does
· Senior Safety

· Drug Abuse Awareness
· Drunk Driving
· Youth and the Law

· Tour the Law Enforcement Center
· Personal Safety for Women

· Car Seat Safety / Inspections

· Block Parent program for schools
· Operation Identification
· Traffic Safety Education
· Neighborhood and Business Watch

911 What Is your Address?

2009-07-07T10:33:00.002-05:00

The following are 10 suggestions that may help emergency personnel better locate your home:

1. House numbers should be at least four inches high on the front of your house, near the front door where a “lit” porch light makes them visible from the street.

2. Numbers “could” be located on your porch roof support post next to your steps. If this method is used, keep trees and shrubs trimmed from hiding your numbers.

3. Numbers “should not” be just located on curbs or step risers. Snow, leaves or vehicles could obscure the numbers.

4. One inch high numbers are not recommended because they are hard to see at a distance under adverse conditions. These are good for roadside mailboxes.

5. Homeowners with trees and shrubs may want to place two sets of numbers on their property.

6. Homeowners that have alleys to the rear of their property may want to consider numbers on a fence or garage. The police may find it necessary to approach your home from the alley in an emergency.

7. Never paint over your house numbers - it camouflages them.

8. A porch light costs pennies per night to operate, and it illuminates your address numbers. It may even keep burglars and thieves away.

9. Put your address numbers on your trashcans. It adds to marking your home for emergency personnel. Every little bit helps.

10. When calling for emergency assistance, give a brief description of your home, i.e., a blue house with black shutters, green Chevy in the driveway. Make sure you repeat your address back to make sure the operator knows you live at 1234 Somewhere Road, not one block over on 1234 Somewhere Place.

DOPE

2009-07-07T00:16:00.004-05:00

DOPE (Death or Prison Eventually) is a film by Southern California's Chris Aherns and filmed by Chris Laurie.
This movie chronicles the rise, fall and redemption of four of the world's most influential skateboarders.
Bruce Logan, Jay Adams, Dennis Martinez, and Christian Hosoi

Taking you from their days of innocent fun, winning trophies for their skatbording skills and endless supplies of money, the film takes a jump to the dark side with the introduction of hard drugs, prison, and death. Included in this film are Interviews with police officers, transients, skateboarders, parents and loved ones of these skateboarders, it shows the true affects that drug use brings to our society as well as the intense pain and misery it causes for those that know drug abusers.
http://www.dopethemovie.org/

Recognizing and Treating Heat Exhaustion

2009-07-06T12:26:00.001-05:00

Sudden high temperature (but less than 104 degrees)
Hot and flushed skin that might be clammy to the touch
Muscle or stomach cramps
Nausea and/or vomiting
Headache
Profuse sweating
Rapid pulse
Dizziness
Treating Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is not usually a life-threatening condition. The two important rules to remember regarding heat exhaustion are:
Get the ill person out of the sun.
Replace the body's lost fluids and salt by having the person drink lots of water, Gatorade, decaffeinated iced tea, or juice.
Cool the person's body with fans, cool towels, or sprays.
Keep the sufferer out of the sun for the next 12–24 hours.

LYME DISEASE PREVENTION

2009-07-06T12:21:00.001-05:00

The majority of Lyme disease cases are caused by tick bites acquired around the home. Children may be at particular risk because of the amount of time they spend playing outdoors and the failure to recognize a tick bite. To help reduce this risk of tick exposure, remind your family of these “tick-safety tips”:
Before Going out: Wear light-colored, tightly woven clothing to make it easier to spot ticks; tuck shirts into pants and pants into socks; wear closed shoes / sneakers rather than open sandals; use a tick repellent as directed. Products should contain DEET (for clothing OR skin) or Permethrin (for clothing ONLY). Remind children to ask an adult to apply the tick repellent and DO NOT apply to hands or face. Use products with less than 10% DEET and always follow manufacturers’ directions carefully. Do not use repellents on children under 3 years of age.
Pay particular attention to tops of shoes and lower portion of pant legs, as ticks are most likely to attach here.
While Outside: Stay in the center of trails; avoid low bushes and leafy brush; periodically check clothing and skin for ticks and remove.
Upon Return: Check clothing, skin, and hair for ticks (take special note of your child’s navel, underarm, groin area and behind the ears). If a tick is found, remove it carefully with tweezers. If it was attached, note spot of attachment, mark calendar, and save tick in a jar for later identification. Should symptoms such as an expanding “bull’s eye” rash, flu-like symptoms or painful joints develop, contact your physician.

Tall grass and Weeds

2009-07-05T09:16:00.000-05:00

"Weeds" are defined as grass, weeds, bushes, vines, poison ivy, poison oak, or any other foreign growth, other than trees, ornamental shrubbery, flowers and garden vegetables. When any of these types of vegetation are allowed to remain tall, there are possible negative consequences. Tall weeds detract from the appearance of the neighborhood. Undesirable wildlife like rats and mice use the unmowed lawn for hiding places and habitat, and these animals may carry disease. Lastly, unmowed grass tells passers by that no one cares about the property, which may invite criminal activity.

1) properties that have a realtor “For Sale” sign on the lawn. A simple phone call to the realtor will, in most cases, result in that lawn being mowed expeditiously. Don't wait for Someone else to do it. Give them a call.
The realtor has a vested interest in maintaining good relations with WNW residents and
2) those for which there is no “For Sale” sign nor any contact information on the property; i.e. usually an absentee landlord. Any citizen may file a complaint for a weed case violation by calling. The Shawnee Action Center at 878-1602 Mon-Fri. 8am-5pm.

Could there be a Reason your Neighbor hasn't Mowed?

Neighbors don't always talk to other neighbors, but a little awareness of your neighbor's situation may go a long way toward that sense of community and the appearance of your neighborhood.

Shawnee Action Center has seen quite a few cases where serious family illness or physical limitations and inability to pay someone to mow the lawn are the reasons for neglect of the lawn. Think about the home where a spouse is on military assignment or the elderly neighbors who cannot push a mower anymore. Look out for your neighbors and offer to mow their grass; arrange for other neighbors to take turns mowing, too. Neighbors helping neighbors works!

Observation Skills Test

2009-07-05T08:05:00.002-05:00

For some time now I have been looking for a good Observation Skills test for you all to do and I finally found one. It is located at www.topsecurityagency.com/tsaobservation.htm
_______________________________________________________

Fire Escape Plans

2009-07-04T14:48:00.001-05:00

MAKE AND PRACTICE AN EXCAPE PLAN.
Plan for two ways to escape from each room.
Practice escape plans every month. The best plans have two ways to get out of each room. If the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke, you will need a second way out. A secondary route might be a window onto an adjacent roof or using an Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) approved collapsible ladder for escape from upper story windows. Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly and that security bars can be properly opened and that they have a quick-release latch and that everyone knows how to open them. Also, practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.

When a fire occurs, do not waste any time saving property. Take the safest exit route, but if you must escape through smoke, remember to crawl low, under the smoke and keep your mouth covered. The smoke contains toxic gases which can disorient you or, at worst, overcome you.
Plan for everyone in your home-including babies and others who need help to escape.

Pick a place to meet after you escape to check that everyone got out.

Designate a meeting location away from the home, but not necessarily across the street. For example, meet under a specific tree or at the end of the driveway or front sidewalk to make sure everyone has gotten out safely and no one will be hurt looking for someone who is already safe. Designate one person to go to a neighbor's home to phone the fire department.

Involve children in making and practicing your escape plan.
Teach children to never hide during a fire-they must get out and stay out.
Clear toys, boxes, and other debris from exits.

Never open a door that feels hot. Escape another way.
When you come to a closed door, use the back of your hand to feel the top of the door, the doorknob, and the crack between the door and door frame to make sure that fire is not on the other side. If it feels hot, use your secondary escape route. Even if the door feels cool, open it carefully. Brace your shoulder against the door and open it slowly. If heat and smoke come in, slam the door and make sure it is securely closed, then use your alternate escape route.

lawnmower safety

2009-07-04T12:07:00.000-05:00

Try to use a mower with a control that stops the mower from moving forward if the handle is let go.
Children younger than 16 years should not be allowed to use ride-on mowers. Children younger than 12 years should not use walk-behind mowers.
Make sure that sturdy shoes (not sandals or sneakers) are worn while mowing.
Prevent injuries from flying objects, such as stones or toys, by picking up objects from the lawn before mowing begins. Have anyone who uses a mower wear hearing and eye protection.
Do not pull the mower backward or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary, and carefully look for children behind you when you mow in reverse.
Always turn off the mower and wait for the blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute, or crossing gravel paths, roads, or other areas.
Do not allow children to ride as passengers on ride-on mowers.

your new neighborhood

2009-07-02T11:21:00.000-05:00

Warm weather is the time most people prefer to relocate. Whether it's a promotion, better schools, or the desire for a different climate, spring is the time when many families start the process of moving.

If you are already in a new location or soon will be, here are some tips to help your children adjust safely to their surroundings:

Be sure your children know their full names and learn their new address and phone number as soon as possible.
Visit their new school prior to the first day of classes.
If your children will be riding the bus, both you and your children should know the location of the bus stop and the number of their bus. They should tell you about any unusual incidents at the bus stop or on the bus.
When meeting new neighbors, try to have your children present. This will let people know there are new playmates for their children and make them aware that the new faces they are seeing in the neighborhood belong there.
Place a list of emergency phone numbers by the phone as soon as possible, including pager and cell phone numbers. Make sure your child knows how and when to dial 911.
Take the family on a walk through the neighborhood to learn new streets and landmarks. Point out public places the children can go to if they need assistance or are frightened. Make a map they can take with them until they are familiar with the area.
Once the children have made new friends, make sure they understand that they must have permission before accepting rides or going to someone's house.
Remind your children that the same house rules still apply—keep doors and windows locked, don't open the door to strangers, don't give out personal information over the phone, don't tell a caller that no adults are home, etc.
Moving to a new neighborhood can be both frightening and exciting. Make sure your children understand that rules of safety still apply no matter where they live.

Hotel Safety

2009-07-01T11:24:00.000-05:00

Now that the summer vacation season is here, we must remember that crime prevention doesn't stop when we leave home. To help ensure that a vacation will be an enjoyable experience for everyone, here are some crime prevention tips that will help protect your family and property when staying at a hotel or motel.

Arriving at a Hotel

Park your vehicle in a well-lit area close to the lobby where you can see your vehicle and occupants.
Before getting out of your vehicle, check your surroundings for suspicious looking people.
When leaving your vehicle, put valuables out of sight and be sure to lock it.
Memorize your vehicle license information so you don't have to go back outside.
Checking In

Make reservations ahead of time to prevent being stranded with no vacancies or unsafe accommodations.
Women traveling alone may prefer to sign in using only a first initial and last name.
Register using your business address.
When Arriving at Your Room

Store valuables in a hotel safe and get a receipt instead of leaving them in your vehicle.
Don't enter your room if someone is loitering in the area and watching you. Report this to the front desk immediately.
Be sure the locks on your door are working properly.
Familiarize yourself with the closest fire evacuation route.
Make sure you know how to use the phone in your room and that you can dial out to 911.
Memorize the name and address of the hotel and your room number.
Use the "peep hole" to identify visitors. Do not open the door to strangers.
Going Out

Hang the "do not disturb" sign on the doorknob and leave a light and radio or TV on when leaving.
Do not enter an elevator if someone inside seems suspicious.
Inquire at the front desk about safe places to eat, shop, walk, or jog. Ask for a map of the area.
Following these tips will help make your vacation a safe and enjoyable experience.

Nighttime safety

2009-06-24T23:27:00.000-05:00

With spring approaching, more and more people will be getting out to enjoy the warm evenings. Many of us like to walk or jog during this time of year. Here are a few precautions to take to protect you while walking or jogging at night:

Avoid walking or running alone at night. Instead go walking or jogging with a friend.
Don't use headphones while walking, driving, or jogging.
Always walk in well-lighted areas.
Avoid the use of shortcuts.
After dark, keep away from large bushes or doorways where someone could be lurking.
Always stay near the curb.
If someone in a vehicle stops and asks for directions, answer from a distance. Do not approach the vehicle.
If followed, go immediately to an area with lights and people. If necessary, turn around and walk in the opposite direction. Your follower will also have to reverse directions.
Do not display cash openly, especially when leaving an ATM.

your teen driver

2009-06-20T22:56:00.002-05:00

Please! If you or your teen driver likes to blast your stereo while driving, be mindful of the churches that you are passing and turn down your music.

Require your teen to wear a seat belt and set firm penalties for breaking the rule. Seat belt use is the single best injury prevention measure a driver can take.
Eliminate distractions – including cell phone use while driving.
Spend time with your teen behind the wheel. Experience is a skill-builder.
Set a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and drug use.
Know who your teen is riding with and whether that teen is a competent driver.
Prohibit new drivers from taking teen passengers along for the ride.
Set a curfew. Teenagers driving at night with passengers are 4 to 5 times more likely to crash than when driving alone during the day

ICE (In Case of Emergency)

2009-06-12T22:23:00.001-05:00

While searching the Internet I came upon this concept Ice (In case of Emergency) It can be an important method of contact during emergency situations for people attending us to get hold of family members to inform them that we have been involved in an accident.

All you need to do is store the number of a contact person or persons who should be contacted during emergency as "ICE" (meaning In Case of Emergency) on your mobile phone.

In an emergency situation, Emergency Service personnel and hospital staff would then be able to quickly contact your next of kin, by simply dialing the number stored as "ICE".

For more than one contact name simply enter ICE1, ICE2 and ICE3 etc.

Spot a Drunk Driver

2009-06-08T18:46:00.001-05:00

Be aware of cars that are speeding, drifting across lanes and erratically braking.

Watch for high beams. It's often a sign of a drunk driver. While you might be tempted to flash a high beaming car, be careful not to overdo it. The driver could be distracted by the flashing lights and swerve into your lane.

Drunk drivers often travel with their headlights off or their parking lights on. Some turn on an interior light to adjust the heat or radio, then forget to turn the light off. If you spot these signs in an oncoming car, move to the right-hand lane as quickly (and safely) as possible.

Never pass a driver you suspect is drunk. If you stay behind, you can see and react to problems.

To create some distance between yourself and a drunk driver, safely pull into a parking lot, wait a few minutes, then proceed.

Lose a tailgater by making a right-hand turn when you can do so safely. It may be a drunk driver who's using your tail lights as a focal point. Most drivers under the influence won't be able to respond fast enough to follow you.

Keep your distance at intersections. Drunk drivers tend to cut the corners short or wide.

While it's always a good idea to stay one or two car lengths back from an intersection, on New Year's Eve you should make it three car lengths.

Don't pull off to the shoulder unless you have no choice. A drunk driver can easily mistake your tail lights for moving traffic and may drift onto the shoulder, as if it was a driving lane. Remain on alert after sunrise. Many people will try to `sleep off' the alcohol, then start driving at daybreak. But if they've had too much to drink, they still can be driving under the influence.

SHARE THE ROAD

2009-06-05T09:28:00.001-05:00

TURN LEFT

TURN RIGHT

STOP

Cyclists
On the Road
The same laws that apply to motorists apply to cyclists
Obey all traffic control devices
Use hand signals to indicate stops and turns
Always wear a properly fitting helmet-no matter how short the trip!
Ride on the right
Always ride in the same direction as traffic
Be Predictable!
Ride in a straight line
Don't swerve in the road or between parked cars
Check for traffic before entering street or intersection
Anticipate hazards and adjust your position accordingly
Be Visible
Wear brightly colored clothing that provides contrast
Use a white front light in low light conditions
Use a red rear light in low light conditions
Use a reflector or reflective tape or clothing anytime
Make eye contact with motorists before crossing paths

MOTORISTS
Drive Cautiously
Be aware of the cyclists' vulnerability
Reduce speed when encountering cyclists
Don't tailgate
Recognize hazards cyclists may face and give them space
Yield to Cyclists
Bicyclists are considered vehicles
Cyclists should be given the appropriate right of way
Allow extra time for cyclists to traverse intersections
Be Considerate
Scan for cyclists in traffic and at intersections
Avoid blasting your horn in close proximity to cyclists
Look for cyclists before opening doors
Watch for Children
Children on bicycles are often unpredictable and harder to see!
Expect the unexpected and slow down
Don't expect children to know traffic laws

Reminder

2009-06-04T00:04:00.004-05:00

Parents please remind your teen drivers that they need to be extra careful of small children playing outside and around the parks. A driver never knows if someone might come out between a car chasing after a ball or running while playing tag or other games. Lets make this an accident free summer.

FREE TREES

2009-06-03T10:21:00.000-05:00

Free Trees Available Again
6/2/2009
Three free trees per household will be available on Sat. June 6 at the Shawnee Airport, north of the big hangers beginning at 8 am. The Oklahoma Tree Bank and Apache Foundation are supplying the trees to the Chamber of Commerce Beautification Committee. The Types of Trees are tulip poplar, pines, oak and arborvitae shrubs in containers, similar to those distributed last fall. Preselection is not available.

Summer Curfew Hours

2009-06-02T09:48:00.000-05:00

Curfew hours means those hours during the period ending at 6:00 a.m. all days of the
week and beginning at 12:00 midnight on Sunday through Thursday and 1:00 a.m. on Friday
and Saturday.
Minor means any person under 18 years of age. Furthermore, the term "minor" is
synonymous with the term "juvenile."

Tips for kids at home

2009-06-02T09:13:00.000-05:00

Many children stay home alone for long periods of time during the summer. Here are some things to teach your children:

1. Provide telephone numbers for your children to reach you. Advise co workers your children may check-in.
2. Teach your children how and when to call 9-1-1.
3. Teach children not to open the door to others with out your permission.
4. Teach children to never let a person at the door or on the phone know that they are home alone.
5. You might consider getting caller ID and screen your calls.
6. If your trusted neighbors will be home during your absence, arrange for your children to check-in with them.
7. Teach children how to escape in case of fire and designate a meeting place.
8. Determine which household appliances you want your children to use.
9. Provide activities and chores for your children to help keep them busy.

Teens, cell phones and the internet

2009-06-02T08:24:00.010-05:00

Although the increased independence that a cell phone might offer a child can be good, it can also be a negative thing. Consider that with a cell phone, your child will simply have another way to communicate with the outside world that you will have little supervision over. Cell phones may even be a distraction to kids. We all know that they are a distraction for drivers, but one study has also shown that cell phones can be a big distraction for kids crossing the street and could lead to more accidents and injuries. Cell phones allow kids to keep their contacts secret and can facilitate contact with bad influences. The Office of National Drug Control Policy has reported that some teens are using technology and the Internet to get drug information, and cell phones provide instant access to information and sources of drugs.

What you can do about it.

Know your children's cell phone contact list.

Be specific about cell phone use and set up specific rules about how and when the phone will be used. Set a limit on how much time children can use each month and how many text messages they can send and receive.

Emphasize and enforce the rule that teens should never use a cell phone while driving.

Establish rules of etiquette, such as never using a cell phone within 20 feet of another person.

Carriers offer some options for parents to limit what their kids can do with their Web-equipped phones here are some of them:

If your child's phone has Internet access, check with your service provider to find out how you can block adult sites. The provider might do it for you, or you might have to do it on the phone.

Cingular cell phones give adults an easy option to block adult sites, allowing parents to block or filter content.

And if your children figure out a way around your password and changes the filters, Cingular sends parents an email letting them know the content blocking feature has been bypassed.

Verizon Wireless added new parental controls for cell phones last year. Users can choose from three levels of settings that will filter the content available on the phone based on a rating system that takes the age of the user into account. The most restrictive setting, aimed at kids between the ages of 7 and 12, blocks access to e-mail, instant messaging, social networking sites and chat groups. The free service also filters Verizon's V CAST multimedia player that plays video and music according to the setting chosen by the parent. To sign up, Verizon customers can visit the Web site or call customer service.

AT&T Inc. has this plan Smart Limits plan for $4.99 a month. The plan lets users limit the number of text and instant messages sent and received.

Parents can block content that may not be appropriate for younger users, like chat rooms and dating sites, on AT&T's home page called MEdia Net, which comes with most of AT&T's basic cell phones. Or they can block access to the Web entirely.

T-Mobile USA Inc. offers a free service called Web Guard that filters mobile Web sites that might be inappropriate for younger users. It automatically blocks the search and browsing of several categories of sites, including dating, gambling and sex . The company says the service works on most phones, but may not work at certain times and in certain locations.

Sprint Nextel Corp.'s free service is called Web Access and limits Web browsing to about 100 preselected sites that are considered safe for all ages. Parents can turn on the service from their profile on the Sprint Web site or from their child's phone. All other sites are blocked. E-mail, instant messaging and access to mobile chat rooms can be blocked only by turning off the Web features on the phone itself. free service is called Web Access and limits Web browsing to about 100 preselected sites that are considered safe for all ages. Parents can turn on the service from their profile on the Sprint Web site or from their child's phone. All other sites are blocked. E-mail, instant messaging and access to mobile chat rooms can be blocked only by turning off the Web features on the phone itself.

Animals that are a nuisance

2009-06-01T21:39:00.000-05:00

Sec. 5-20. Animal a nuisance.
(a) It shall be the duty of the animal control officer to investigate any proper claim that an animal is a nuisance within the meaning of this chapter. Should the investigating official determine that a nuisance exists and it is necessary to abate the nuisance or should the official have reason to believe a threat to public health or safety exists, he shall refer the matter to the city prosecutor for approval of a verified complaint and an order from the court that the animal be impounded. Following the filing of such verified complaint and an evidentiary hearing, if the court finds upon a preponderance of the evidence that a nuisance existed, the court may order the animal euthanized as in the case of a vicious animal. In lieu of ordering the animal euthanized, the court shall, at the request of the animal owner, require that the owner abate and prevent such nuisance and give a good and sufficient bond within three days in an amount not greater than $500.00, satisfactory for a period not exceeding one year. In this event, the court may order the return of such animal to the owner. However, during the pendency of such bond, upon a finding by the court that the nuisance has reoccurred, the court shall order the animal be impounded, euthanized and the owner's bond be forfeited. If the court shall find no nuisance existed, the court shall order the animal be surrendered to the owner.
(b) For purposes of this section, nuisance shall mean any animal that habitually commits any one or a combination of the following acts:
(1) Scratches or digs into any flower bed, garden, tilled soil, vines, shrubbery or small plants and in so doing injures the same;
(2) Overturns any garbage can or other vessel for waste products or scatters the contents of same;
(3) Chases any person or domestic animal, or kills any domestic animal;
(4) Barks, howls, brays or makes any other loud or offensive noise common to its species or peculiar to itself, so as to disturb the inhabitants of the community;
(5) Is running at large.
(c) At the option of the owner, but subject to the approval of the animal control officer, an animal impounded pursuant to this section may be impounded in a private kennel or veterinary clinic during the pendency of the nuisance action. The operators of the facility shall then assume full liability for the confinement and maintenance of such animal and shall not release it without first being authorized by the animal control officer or the court. All fees for such impoundment shall be the responsibility of the owner. In no event shall the City of Shawnee be liable for costs of fees charged by the private facility. Further, the city may assess to the owner the cost of transporting the animal to the privately operated impoundment facility.
(d) Nothing in this section shall be construed to permit the release from impoundment of any animal not properly licensed and vaccinated, or a threat to public health or safety.
(e) A violation of this section shall be punishable by a fine of $200.00, plus court costs.
(Ord. No. 2386NS, § 1, 12-1-2008; Ord. No. 2395NS, § 2, 2-17-2009)

Violations in our area watch

2009-05-31T21:59:00.002-05:00

5/28/2009 1302 FLR TO WEAR SEAT BELT/ADULT 3700 N KICKAPOO
5/27/2009 2354 OBSTRUCTING/INTERFERING W/OFFICER 500 N BONITA
5/27/2009 2354 PUBLIC DRUNKENNES 500 N BONITA
5/17/2009 0100 NO MANDATORY INSURANCE KICKAPOO SPUR / KENNEDY
5/7/2009 1119 LOUD AMPLIFICATION FROM VEHICLE KICKAPOO / WALLACE
5/7/2009 0328 PUBLIC DRUNKENNES 623 W KICKAPOO SPUR
5/3/2009 1216 FLR TO WEAR SEAT BELT/ADULT KICKAPOO SPUR / POTTENGER

Crime in our area

2009-05-31T21:52:00.002-05:00

On 5/13/2009
There was a robbery on Wood and N Kickapoo St at 9:30 pm

also on 5/13/2009
It was reported that someone received, or possed stolen property on the corner on N Kennedy Ave and Ford

Vacation Crime Prevention Tips

2009-05-31T08:32:00.000-05:00

Vacation is a time for relaxation and enjoyment. It can also be the time for crime victimization if appropriate crime prevention measures are not followed. The following crime prevention tips are designed to allow the vacationer to enjoy a safe and secure trip and to return to a secure residence.

Before Leaving . . . . Secure Your Residence
· Have good locks on all doors and windows and use them.
· Make sure your residence looks lived in, not empty.
· Leave shades and blinds in a normal position.
· Ask a neighbor to watch your residence while you are away. Leave your vacation address
and telephone number with a neighbor so you can be reached in case of an emergency.
· Test your smoke and burglar alarms.
· Stop all deliveries, arrange for a neighbor to pick up your mail, newspaper and packages.
· Arrange for someone to mow your lawn, rake leaves and maintain the yard to give the
home a lived-in look.
· Have a neighbor place garbage cans at the curb on your normal pickup day(s) and return them after the garbage pickup is made.
· Plug in timers to turn lights and a radio or television on and off at appropriate times.
· Turn the bell or ringer on your telephone down low. If a burglar is around, he won’t be alerted to your absence by a ringing telephone.
· If you have call forwarding on your telephone, forward your calls to a trusted friend or relative.
· Don’t announce your absence on answering machine messages; leave your normal
message on the machine.
· Engrave your valuables with your driver’s license number.
· Close and lock garage doors and windows. Ask a neighbor to occasionally park in your driveway. If you leave your car at home, park it as you normally would. Vehicles parked outside should be moved occasionally to appear that they are being used.
· Consider taking valuables to a bank safety deposit box.

Teens that gather in groups

2009-05-29T22:08:00.003-05:00

It is a part of society that young people will congregate in public. It is both inevitable and socially necessary. Congregating is part of the rite of passage of sorts from childhood to adulthood, allowing youth to socialize and bond with their peers, out of their parents' view.

Young people's self-identity and self-worth are profoundly shaped by how they believe their peers perceive them, and gathering in public provides opportunities to see, and be seen by, others. Group settings provide a relatively safe context for teenagers to flirt and pair up with one another, supported and protected by their friends.

But they often do not always see how their gatherings affect other people. It can often make people feel afraid or apprehensive regardless of their behavior when most people see such a gathering they automatically see them as a gang.

Such gatherings can become disorderly depending of their conduct such as cursing, blocking sidewalks and streets, playing games in the streets, playing music loudly, drinking, fighting, littering, making offensive remarks to passerby and vandalizing property.

Young teens usually are looking for a place where they can hang out with each other without excessive adult supervision. In England, the police arranged for their teens to help an architect design a public youth shelter.

Some of the following can help problems from occurring:

Employ youth where businesses are negatively affected by disorderly conduct, it can promote a sense of responsibility among youth. Make sure that youth have adequate transportation to and from events this removes the risk of them being on the streets. Give teens a place to gather where they will not be complained about. Install closed-circuit TV where problems exist. Rules of conduct need to be established and made known to area teens if they wish to be in that particular place.

Mediating conflicts between youth needs to be a factor in helping teens know that there are other ways of handling situations. And that they must be held accountable for their actions.

Online Reporting Of Child Sexual Exploitation

2009-05-29T21:59:00.000-05:00

The CyberTipline®, www.cybertipline.com, allows concerned individuals and electronic service providers to report information online regarding the possession, manufacture, and distribution of child pornography; online enticement of children for sexual acts; child victims of prostitution; sex tourism involving child victims; extrafamilial molestation of children; unsolicited obscene material sent to children; and misleading domain names. The CyberTipline also maintains a contact list of many major electronic service providers in the United States.

Cellphone tips for Parents

2009-05-27T00:27:00.004-05:00

CELL PHONE TIPS FOR PARENTS

Here’s advice on how parents might prevent “sexting” and other sexually motivated online activities:
Talk to children and teens about cell phone and Internet safety.

Let them know that photographs sent via cell phone or the Internet are not private.
Set behavior expectations such as what is appropriate in mobile communication.

Enforce a rule that cell phones and laptops must be left in a public area with the parents/guardian before the teen or child goes to bed. This prevents temptation to log on or chat late at night.

Internet and cell phone accounts should always be in the parents’ name.
• Parents should be in charge of all passwords and parental controls.
• Contact your cell phone provider to learn more about restrictions parents can place on cell phones.
• BEFORE YOU HIT SEND:Here are some tips teens should consider before sending photos or text messages: Don’t assume text messages will remain private – 40 percent of teens and young adults said they have shared messages that were intended to be private.
Cyberspace is forever. Once something is sent via cell phone or Internet, it exists permanently, which could cause problems when applying to a college or for a job. Parents, teachers, friends and enemies can find those photos or messages Even if a racy message or post is later deleted by the sender, it may have been passed on and posted by dozens of others.
Remember that nothing is truly anonymous

Deliver Shawnee

2009-05-09T06:53:00.003-05:00

Do you need someone go to the grocery store, pharmacy, do some needed shopping for you? Then give Deliver Shawnee a call at 1-800-839-7057. For a small fee of 15% of the total bill they will pick up your needed items. They will pay the bill and when they get to your home you reimburse them. The hours of operation are between
10am -10pm Sunday - Thursday and 10am - 12pm on Friday and Saturday. Deliver Shawnee website is under reconstruction and will have menus of local restaurants and will also include a listing of other services that the offer. At http://www.delivershawnee.com/ So if you are ill, have a sick family member and don't want to leave, or cannot leave the workplace give Deliver Shawnee a call

Crime in our Area

2009-05-09T06:28:00.003-05:00

Between 4/12/2009 and 5/9/2009 at the following locations the following crimes occurred:

Wood - Vehicle Larceny
Ford and Kennedy - Assault
On Kickapoo between Benedict and Dewey - Public Drunk
On Kickapoo between Wood and Wallace - Malicious mischief/ Vandalism
Jefferson St. - Incident Report
On Kickapoo between Kirk and Burns - Warrant/Misdemeanor
Kickapoo Spur and Kennedy - Incident Report

Alcohol and the life of James

2009-05-04T20:02:00.002-05:00

James is a 13-year-old boy who has been hanging around with friends that have parents that throw drinking parties every weekend. Now James parents drink but not very often, so he is not a stranger to alcohol. One weekend he asks his parents if he can go and spend the night at his friend Tom’s home. They agree. Tom’s parents are having a party as usual. James is introduced to the taste of his first beer. In addition, he really likes the taste and how it makes him feel. James is now on the road to alcoholism. Of course he doesn’t know it as of yet. Let us fast forward a few years.
James is now out of high school and in his first year of college. He has learned that a couple of beers will make him able to talk to other people without being shy or reserved, that it makes him feel better than he has in a long time, and that it helps him sleep. He has a few friends that drink with him but he always drinks them under the table and he never seems to get enough. James only drinks on weekends because of his schoolwork so he feels that it is not affecting him any. Fast forward, another year or two he is about 21 now and drinks on weekends and on Wednesdays just to get by. He hates the feeling that he has when not drinking and at this age it already hurts not to drink and just a day or two between drinking is just about all he can stand. James, at this point does not yet realize he is an alcoholic.
At the age of 23 he has been in his first car wreck and his first DUI, spent the night in jail, and has to call his parents to bail him out. James experiences for the first time how it feels to be a criminal. His car is a wreck but drivable but what do you think happens? Do you think that this first experience with the law will stop him? No, he is remorseful, sorry, upset at himself but after a few weeks he is back to drinking again.

Notice of Crime in our watch area

2009-04-17T11:52:00.004-05:00

CRIMES IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD BETWEEN 3-21 AND 4-17

There have been seven burglaries on the the following blocks:

1 Jefferson Cir.
3 Kickapoo
1 Dill
1 Ford
1 Chapman

2 Larceny from a house:

1 Wood
1 Chapman

1 Assault and battery on (Kickapoo and Kennedy)

1 Aggravated Assault and battery upon a peace officer (Wallace)

1 Warrant served for a felony on (Kennedy)

1 Warrant served for a misdemeanor on (Kickapoo Spur)

1 Malicious mischief Vandalism (Wood)

1 Obstructing an officer (Benedict and Kickapoo)

1 Lewd, indecent acts against a child (Benedict)

Crime in our area is on the rise we need to be more arwar of things going on in our neighborhood.

If you see anything that does not look normal please call the police.

WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE THOSE KIDS SAYING?

2009-03-16T17:40:00.000-05:00

Internet lingo what your kids know, and what you now know. Some of these are nasty but you should know what they mean.
AFK = away from keyboard
ASL = age/sex/location
ATM = at the moment
BBL = be back later
BBS = be back soon
BF = boy friend
BRB = be right back
BTW = by the way
CUI = cracking up inside
CUL8R = see you later
CTN = can't talk now
FYI = for your information
G2G = got to go
New lesson in internet lingo
PAW= parents are watching
PIR= parents in room
LMIRL = lets meet in real life
420 = Marijuana
NALOPKT = not a lot of people know that
WYRN = what's your real name
c-p = sleepy
FOAF = friend of a friend
143 or 459 = I love you
next lesson
GF= girlfriend
HW= homework
ID= i don't care
IDK = i don't know
IMO = in my opinion
JAS = just a second
JIT = just in time
JK = just kidding
JW = just wondering
KOTC = kiss on the cheek
LOL = laughing out loud
ROTFL = rolling on the floor laughing
LYL = love ya lots
LYLAB = love ya like a brother
LYLAS = love ya like a sister
NM = not much

8- it refers to oral sex
1337- it means elite
182- it means I hate you
1174- it means nude club
ADR or addy- Address
banana- it means penis
CD9- it means Code 9 = parents are around
DUM- Do You Masturbate?
DUSL- Do You Scream Loud?
FB- F*** Buddy
GNOC- Get Naked On Cam (webcam)
GYPO- Get Your Pants Off
IIT- Is It Tight?
IMEZRU- I Am Easy, Are You?
IWSN- I Want Sex Now
J/O- Jerking Off
KFY- Kiss For You
kitty- it means vagina
KPC - Keeping Parents Clueless
MOOS- Member(s) Of the Opposite Sex
MOSS or MOTSS- Member(s) Of The Same Sex
MorF- Male or Female
MOS - Mom Over Shoulder
MPFB- My Personal F*** Buddy
NIFOC- Nude In Front Of Computer
NMU- Not Much, You?
P911- Parent Alert
PAL- Parents Are Listening
POS- Parent Over Shoulder
PRON- Porn
Q2C- Quick To Cum
RU/18- Are You Over 18?
RUH- Are You Horny?
S2R- Send To Recieve (pictures)
SorG- Straight or Gay
TDTM- Talk Dirty To Me
WYCM- Will You Call Me?

Nightmare Over Deborah Kalai Fourzan Found

2009-03-15T19:38:00.007-05:00

In the state of Washington during a routine traffic stop, a lane violation, around 4p.m. Saturday, Deborah Fourzan was found. James Reimer, has been arrested without incident, and is expected to be charged with kidnapping because of Deborah's age. Reimer is also facing possible federal charges.

Sexting

2009-03-10T17:30:00.006-05:00

Sexting is the intentional use of a camera phone, to send explicit photos of ones self or someone else's nude photos to another's phone. One in five teens say that they have sent partial nude or nude photos of themselves to their friends. Sexting sharing can lead to anyone seeing what you might have only wanted one person to see because, most teens won't keep those photos to themselves they will more than likely post them on their facebook page or on my space.
Teens are like the teens of yesteryear, in that boys would tell their friends what they had done with their girlfriend over the weekend whether or not it was true. With sexting there is no protecting your reputation, it is no longer one's word against the others.
What most teenagers don't realize is that they can be charged with child porn and facing a felony. In Utah they are trying to pass HB14 that would make the crime a misdemeanor for 16 or 17 year-olds and from a class A to a class B misdemeanor for younger youth. If photos are exchanged by teens or they have nude photos on their phone they could be charged and sent to prison. The following are examples of the seriousness of sending, receiving or forwarding nude photos of others: one is from Rochester, N.Y. where a 16 year old boy is facing up to seven years in prison for forwarding nude photos of his 15 year old girlfriend to his friends. A 15 year-old in Pennsylvania is facing child pornography charges for sending nude photos of herself to other kids. In Florida a 19 year old was thrown out of college and now is a registered sex offender for 25 years because he sent nude photos of his girlfriend to other teens.
They don't think! We have all been there in their shoes, by doing stupid stuff, we can all understand that you have to learn by the mistakes that we have made or by the mistakes that our peers had made. But it is also our responsibility to tell and teach our teens. The real difference between teens and us is that we know better. Teenagers don't necessarily understand the repercussions of their actions. They just act.

Article about the WNW featured in the Shawnee Outlook

2009-03-07T11:38:00.004-06:00

Be sure to read the article about us in the Shawnee Outlook pg. 19, March issue, written by Mindy Wood. The photographs were taken in October of 08, at the cookout. Right after the Shawnee Pd arrested two suspects.

March WNW Meeting

2009-03-06T20:47:00.005-06:00

The next WNW meeting will be the Tenth of March, the meeting will be held in the basement of the Wallace Ave. Baptist Church from 7:00-8:00pm. Hope to see you there.

Missing From Shawnee Teen found

2009-03-06T15:17:00.004-06:00

Cody has been found safe and has been removed from the National Crime Information Center's missing persons database. Cody was located on Tuesday and he is fine

CODY BRANDON JILES: MISSING FROM SHAWNEE SINCE, FEBRUARY 28, 2009.
AGE 18
BROWN HAIR
GREEN EYES
6 FEET 2 INCHES TALL
ABOUT 175 POUNDS

Last seen wearing black pants, White shoes, and a black Metallica T-Shirt.
If you have any information please contact the Shawnee Police Department at (405)273-2121 or
The family at (405)808-5460 or (918)290-0357

WANT TO JOIN A GANG

2009-03-01T09:08:00.002-06:00

So you want to join a gang. What could happen to you if you pursue your quest of the downward spiral of life that you seek.

Do you want to be in a fight with 3 or more gang members, for a set amount of time? This process is called (Jumped in, Rolled in, or Lined in) It tells the gang how tough you are. Lined in - is where you have walk, run, crawl towards the end between two rows of gang members while they beat you to a pulp. How are you going to explain this to your parents or other family members about how your face looks when you get home? What are you going to do when they want to make a report to the police?

Or you could be (Courted in) - Is your talent Stealing, do you know someone who sells drugs, do you have the only car on your block and you don't mind if it is used for illegal activity? Do you want to be taken advantage of, used, do you want to get caught and spend time in jail or most likely prison? Than you might be Courted.

Or you could be asked to join a gang this is called (Walked in)

Are you a female who has the desire to join a gang? To be used by more than one gang member? Roll the dice, if you roll a six than you will be required to have sex with six of the gang members. Another words what ever number you roll with 2 dice than that will be how many partners you will have to be with before you are a gang member. And you want to join a gang!

Do you want to commit crimes against the people in your town? Would you be willing to steal someones auto?
Are you a thief? Do you want to go to jail or prison? Can you live with your self if you have to kill someone? What will your grandmother think? Do you want to have children at a young age? Do you want to be addicted to drugs or alcohol? These are just some of the things that you should think about before you attempt to join a gang.

If you do decide to join a gang you might want to think about where you want to be buried. Keep your little brother or sister away from you because you never know when they might be a victim of a drive by. By the way what will you do if you get an STD?

Online Tools to Discover Where Sexual Predators and Criminals Live in Your Neighborhood

2009-02-28T07:51:00.001-06:00

Parents, teachers and other guardians who are concerned about the safety of their children can often reduce the risks their children face by educating themselves as to where sexual predators and criminals reside in their neighborhoods. Registered sex offenders are listed in a national and/or state database, available to the public online, as well as on criminal background check websites. Listings usually include their full name and home address, letting parents type in their zip code and find out which homes in their neighborhood conceal potential threats to their children. Here are several online tools that can be used to search for sexual predators in your area.

Family Watchdog: Family Watchdog maintains that “awareness is your best defense.” Users can search multiple states at once if they want to search by location. The site also lets users search by name if they are trying to track down a particular offender. In addition, this site posts information about food and drug recalls and product recalls.

CriminalCheck.com: Search by name or zip code at CriminalCheck.com to find registered sex offenders in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia. If users search by zip code, they can view a map of their area that pinpoints the exact location of sex offenders.

FamilyBeacon.com: This site gives a history of sex offender laws in addition to providing a comprehensive search. Users who suspect their neighbor of being a sex offender can type in their name or address to find out if they are listed. Otherwise, users can search by zip code or city.

National and Governmental Sites
These websites are organized by national and/or governmental agencies, making your search more official.

National Alert Registry The motto of the National Alert Registry is to “be aware, be alert, be safe.” Currently, the registry includes over 500,000 listings that include names, addresses and even photos of the sex offenders. Users can register their neighborhood or area of interest with the registry to receive RED ALERTs by e-mail whenever a new name is added.

Megan’s Law Nationwide Registries and Links: This page features a Megan’s Law Report Card, which grades states on how accessible they make sexual predator information to the public and on the number of registrants vs. the number of actual offenders. The site also displays links to sex offender registries by state and provides users with an easy way to report child pornography.

Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Registry: This website is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Justice and lets users search for violent sex offenders who may prey on adults as well as children. There is also a search for general sex offenders who have a criminal past with minors. Users can search by region, state, zip code, name or conduct a nationwide search.

WNW Calendar

2009-02-23T08:25:00.000-06:00

Steps to take if your child becomes a runaway or has been abducted

2009-02-21T11:08:00.003-06:00

The following is from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

When your child becomes a runaway the following are steps that you should immediately start.

Remain calm
Check with your childs friends, neighbors,relatives,or anyone else who they might know.
Call or visit the places that your child frequently visits.
Report the runaway to your local law enforcement.
Call your local runaway hotline or contact the National Runaway Switchboard at 1-800621-4000 they may be able to give you more assistance and advice.
Keep track of everyone that you have talked to.
Make sure that law enforcement enters your childs name and description into the National Crime Information Center's Databases. This will be accessable to other law enforcements agencies accross the country. You can also contact the nearest FBI field office for help.
If it has been a day or two start making posters or fliers. Place them in store windows, truck stops, youth-oriented businesses, hospitals, law-enforcement agencies and local spots that your child may frequent.

Recheck with your child's friends, school, neighbors, and if they are employed, their employer.

If you have reason to believe your child has been abducted do not disturb or remove any of your child's items before law enforcement arrives. Key clues could be disturbed or destroyed. DO NOT DELAY IN CONTACTING LAW ENFORCEMENT YOU NEED TO EXPLAIN ALL OF THE FACTS LEADING TO THE BELIEF THAT YOUR CHILD IS AN ABDUCTION VICTIM,

Provide a recent photo of your child.
There is no wating period for reporting a child missing to law encorcement or for entry into the National Crime Information Center Database.

Shawnee and Tecumseh area Transportation

2009-02-06T16:15:00.001-06:00

Central Oklahoma Transit System
1-800-256-5940 or 273-3000
Provides transpportation to schools, Vocational technical centers, medical appointments, shopping or special events.
Children under the age of 12 ride free but must be accompanied by an adult. Parents must provide all child safety seats.
Rides must be booked 24 hours in advance
$3 Per ride in Shawnee and Seminole city limits.

7AM - 5 Pm
Monday - Friday
Oklahoma, Pottawatome and Seminole Counties

7Am - 8 PM
Monday - Friday
Shawnee Only

8Am- 5Pm
Saturday in Shawnee Only

The Citizen Pottawatomi Nation now offers public transportation in the Tecumseh and Shawnee Areas. For no charge.
For more information call: 878-4833
Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
They have 1 handicap accessible bus and 2 mini vans
You will need to call 24 hours in advance to schedule your transportation date.
They will transport outside of the Tecumseh and Shawnee areas for medical purposes up to 65 miles for a charge of $25.00.

Free Tax Preparation

2009-02-04T19:45:00.002-06:00

Need help doing your taxes? Free tax help is being offered by COCAA, RSVP, and the IRS
Location: 108 E Main Street
Shawnee, Ok Across the street from Pott. County Bookstore
Time: Thursdays 9am-4pm
Saturdays 9am-3pm
Call 878-1512 for an Appointment or for more information.

MISSING FROM TECUMSEH UPDATE

2009-02-04T06:57:00.009-06:00

Deborah Kalai Fourzan, age 14, missing from Tecumseh, last seen before school on Monday, Febuary 2th. She is believed to be with James "Jim" Joseph Reimer age 40. May be headed to California or Texas. Authorities say that Reimer purchased a WHITE MERCURY COUGAR XR7. The car has front-end damage. License plate VRW-932. James Reimer has been charged with a felony and an arrest warrant has been issued.

Fourzan is 5 ft 2 in. tall, 110 pounds, has blond hair and blue eyes.

Reimer is 5 ft 10 in tall, 280 pounds, has brown hair and blue eyes.

Michael Fourzan, Deborah's father, say's that "He has been a total wreck ever since she's been gone." And that he can't thank about anything other than getting her home safe."

If anyone has any information please call the Tecumseh Police at 598-9305 or 598-2115.

If you happen to see them please call the local police at 911.

Nike on the lines?

2009-02-02T08:12:00.001-06:00

Why in the world would anyone want to throw their shoes up on the power lines?

Well, there are several idea's floating around as to why. Some say that when you see tennis shoes on the power lines in front of a house you can buy drugs there, although this would be a clear sign to the local police department of the drug activity that's going on. That it marks gang territories, I guess that some of them do their business out on the rural roads, because you sometimes see them out there hanging on the lines, as well. Or that a murder occurred nearby at some point in time.

Some say that when you got a new pair of shoes that you threw the old ones up there. Just for fun, so that you would not be tempted to wear them again. This phenomenon occurs in the United States and in other countries around the world. Bullies, also will sometimes throw their victims shoes over the lines. Or, the practice could be that someone is moving and they want to leave something behind, letting others know that they were there. Or just because of old fashioned boredom, Just to see if they can do it. I guess that the best way to find out why someone would throw their shoes over the line would be to ask someone that is actually doing it.