It is gratifying to see the community activity at the St. Paul's Complex during the afternoon and evening hours, weekdays and throughout the day on weekends. When visiting St. Paul's please drive with caution and be aware that the children may not be paying attention to vehicles entering and exiting the complex.

It is also important to only park in the paved areas that have been designated for parking. Please do not park on the unpaved areas as it leaves ruts, which are dangerous and unsightly. Do not park in the areas that have been designated as "fire lanes." These lanes have to be left open to allow access by fire apparatus. Persons parking in the fire lanes obstruct access to the facilities and risk receiving a parking ticket.

I hope that you have made a physical inspection of your property and have taken steps to secure any loose building materials and that you have purchased flashlights, a portable radio and a large quantity of batteries.

It is recommended that we also maintain a "disaster supply kit" in the event that a storm does hit Long Island.

Keep supplies at home to survive at least three days and up to one week. Have the kit easily accessible. Make everyone aware of where the kit is and that it is for emergencies only. Items to be included in the supply kit include drinking water (one gallon per person per day); non-perishable food with manual can opener - remember your pets; first aid supplies; medications and prescriptions; child care supplies; flashlights - use flashlights rather than candles because there is no chance of fire; battery powered radio; extra batteries; personal hygiene supplies; blankets; and a fire extinguisher.

Recently a resident wrote a note asking if the police department kept a list of residents who might require equipment needing electricity or oxygen 24/7. I was happy to inform him that the police department keeps such a list and refers to it as a "Wellness Check List." His question prompted me to remind residents who have special needs, including elders who may live alone, to please call and register with the police department. I encourage residents who know other residents with special needs or who live alone to let them know of the police department's special list as well as to check on them during and after blackouts, etc.