The Child Abuse Prevention Services (CAPS) recently hosted an exquisite gala at The Carltun in Eisenhower Park. Bill O'Reilly, host of Fox News Channel's The O'Reilly Factor was honored for his role as a children's advocate. Mr. O'Reilly spoke eloquently of the power of the people in effecting change even on a micro-level. He told of his ability to take the cause and deal with it on a macro-level.

He also addressed the need for a Federal Child Protection Act which would mandate life in federal prison for abducting a child, even if (the abduction is) only for three hours. Since the mass of people "feel OK" with that concept, he questioned why the politicians do not act on it. It would reduce the problem, but politicians he claimed do not want to confront the problem.

Mr. O'Reilly also felt that organizations like ACLU, under the guise of freedom of speech, have put up roadblocks to protecting children regarding child pornography issues. However, with constant pressure and constant "pounding" starting on a local level, the people do have to make the politicians and organizations act on issues which will protect children.

The 20th anniversary celebration also honored CAPS Founding Executive Director Alane Fagin, as well as all the CAPS past presidents. Ms. Fagin, a Roslyn resident, has provided 20 years of dedicated leadership for the organization. There was sumptuous fare, live music by both "Current Affair" and "Thalia Greenhalgh and the MetroGnomes," walk-around magic performed by Adam Kidabra and Aaron the Amazing and a fabulous array of silent auction gifts.

Founded in 1982 by the Junior League of Long Island and the National Council of Jewish Women and headquartered in Roslyn, CAPS is Long Island's comprehensive resource center for the prevention of child abuse and the promotion of child safety and child protection.