Staying safe during the holidays
We are in full-on holiday mode and not only does that mean family time, goodwill, and cheer, unfortunately, it can also mean danger in some instances. So heightened awareness of your surroundings can be your best defense to preventing mishaps and thefts. The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (NJOHSP) along with its cybersecurity division, New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell (NJCCIC), is advising residents within the state to be aware of their safety in all situations this holiday season. They note that holiday-themed public events and activities remain potential targets for terrorists, as well as faith-based communities, such as churches. New Jersey’s “See something, say something” message urges residents to speak out if they notice any suspicious activities and to visit the NJOHSP website for resources and information on thwarting terrorism-related attacks. Although online shopping is a convenient, effortless option for many of us, it is also another mode of attack for criminals. The NJCCIC Director Michael Geraghty states that being leery of links and attachments in emails, social media ads, avoiding public computers and public Wi-Fi, and enabling multi-factor authentication can ensure that online shoppers can safely buy presents. Visit njohsp.gov and cyber.nj.gov for more information on staying alert and safe this holiday season.
Trenton PD’s new de-escalation training is in full effect
Over the past few years, we’ve seen the outcry from African-American communities regarding the treatment of their people at the hands of police officers. Trenton Police Department has taken heed of those concerns and questions of what many have noted was the result of improper training of cops who shoot to kill. Last month, acting Police Director Steve E. Wilson announced the department’s new training practices, which will train officers on de-escalation techniques to take suspects into custody without harming them. The training is being held at Mercer County Community College. During training, officers will receive the Integrating Communications, Assessment, and Tactics (ICAT) training guide for diffusing critical incidents. The program will train officers in critical thinking, crisis intervention, communications and tactics, providing responding officers with the tools needed to safely apprehend suspects. The second training program called Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement (ABLE) will urge officers to take responsibility for their misconduct and to protect and promote their well-being. It seems like the TPD is on the right track to properly protect and serve their communities.
Trenton’s fight the blight tool puts the city’s conditions in the residents’ hands
Mayor W. Reed Gusciora’s Fight the Blight initiative aims to rid the city of demolished or neglected homes. The Mayor recently announced a new tool for residents to report such homes seen throughout the city that consists of crumbling roofs, squatters, illegal activity, fire hazards, vermin, or other conditions of neglected properties that can be dangerous in areas near homeowners, children, and pedestrians. Once the report is received, the property will be evaluated by Trenton’s Department of Housing and Economic Development (HED), who will then consider it in the city’s demolished, rehabilitated or, redevelopment efforts. If you want to get involved to help clean up the city, report any neglect at trentonnj.org.
Trenton Holiday Theatre
Are you in the holiday spirit yet? Or is taking a ride into Manhattan for a Broadway show a bit out of your reach right now? Well, don’t worry, Trenton has you covered. You can catch the all-time favorite Christmas classic, A Christmas Carol at Mill Hill Playhouse.
A Christmas Carol: A one-night holiday event presented by: Passage Theatre at Mill Hill Playhouse is showing on December 11th, at 7 p.m. This adaptation will include only two characters: Scrooge and Charles Dickens, with Dickens transforming into all other characters, creating a unique take on the Charles Dickens classic. Warm beverages and treats will be served in the courtyard, as doors open at 6 p.m. Proof of vaccination and mask are required, but for those who are not vaccinated, the playhouse will be offering the option of streaming the play online. To purchase tickets to this in-person and virtual holiday event, visit passagetheatre.org.
