Did You Know...

12-07-06 I hope the recent snowfall did not cause too much inconvenience for everyone. I know my children were thrilled to have a couple of days off from school to play in the snow. Although we did have a few motor vehicle accidents we were spared the problems in the North and East side of the county where they received ice. I must say that driving around a snow-covered Vernonia was amazing and definitely a "Winter Wonderland". That said, I am most content enjoying it in moderation. As a follow-up to my last article regarding Identity Theft, the International Association of Chief's of Police have partnered with Bank of America to create an informative website for consumers and law enforcement. The website <http://www.IDSafety.org/> offers information on 'What identity crime is', 'How to protect yourself', 'Are you a victim?', "If you are a victim, what are the next steps'. There are also crime prevention tips for the holidays. Remember when doing your Holiday shopping to not leave presents and items in plain view in your vehicle. This invites thieves to smash a window and take want they want. You can go directly to the website or there is a link on the VPD website under "Community Resource Links". Recently the Vernonia School District sent a notice out detailing the addition of drop-off zones in front of the Middle School and the Washington Grade School. I would like to remind everyone that these zones are for "temporary use" and are still not "no parking" areas. Please do not park and leave your vehicles unattended in these zones as it severely restricts traffic flow and are subject to a citation. I have also received a complaint and have personally observed people blocking the crosswalks with vehicles while picking up and dropping off. Remember there is absolutely "No Parking" in or adjacent to a crosswalk as designated by the yellow-painted curb area. By blocking these crosswalks or parking in the yellow area you restrict use and make it extremely difficult to see pedestrians using the crosswalk. Lastly I would like to let everyone know about a recruitment effort by the Washington County Dept. of Human Services Foster Parents. If you are interested in what it takes to be a foster parent there are brochures outside the counter window at the police station.