A new iPhone app was released today by the Department of Public Works for reporting issues like graffiti, etc. Called “the Works” it is simple and sleek but needs a bit of care when making reports. The address GPS finder was about a block off, but you can easily move the map to the right location. Then just pick your report, snap a pic and boom you have made a report. It gives you a report number and unfortunately in our case we aren’t covered by the County for Graffiti but the program said it referred it to LA City. Just search for “The Works” and LA County in the App store and you’ll find it! It’s FREE! We hope it works. As we have learned it still takes a human to follow through….

Public Works has become one of the first Los Angeles County departments to launch its very own iPhone application.

Called The Works, the free application allows users to request and track pothole repairs, graffiti removal and street sweeping, or report incidents of alleged illegal dumping and property violations.

Developed by the Department’s own Information Technology Division, The Works has an optional feature to upload photographs to help identify the service request, and provides appropriate contact information if the request is not within the County’s jurisdiction. It also keeps users up-to-date with the latest news on County road closures and recycling events and can locate other County services in the area.

Public Works Director Gail Farber said the new iPhone application would provide the kind of streamlined efficiency and mobility demanded by customers.

“The Works is an outstanding example of how, by better utilizing new technology, we can make our services more accessible and responsive to County residents,” Farber said.

Users can download The Works from the App Store or learn more at Public Works’ website www.dpw.lacounty.gov/theworks

May 2011 Captains Message
Seniors currently comprise 4.5% of the population of California. Seniors are currently enjoying healthier lives, and by the year 2020, it is predicted 16% of California’s population will be sixty years old or older. Seniors often worry about crime, but according to the crime statistics in Pacific Area, seniors are victims of crime less often than younger people. The problem is that the effect of crime on seniors is often more severe than on their younger counterparts.
Elder abuse has become a serious problem in our communities. Elder abuse is the mistreatment or neglect of an older person, usually by a relative or other caregiver. Most often, cases of elder abuse go unreported. Many victims are ashamed or unable to report abuse. Many are even fearful of what may happen if they do. Elder abuse is not just physical abuse but also personal neglect, financial exploitation, psychological abuse, and rights violations to name a few. Knowing what signs to look for and who to contact if you suspect abuse will help eradicate the problem.
By being alert to situations that could lead to abuse of an elderly person you may be able to prevent serious injury or save a life. Pacific Area Detectives urge everyone to look for these possible signs of elder abuse:

• •    Any unusual unexplained bumps, bruises or cuts.
• •    Unusual changes in behavior.
• •    If you do not hear from elderly friends or family member for several days.
• •    If strangers, or someone you have never seen before, at an elder’s homes: they may be attempting to take advantage of them.
• •    If an elderly friend’s home is unusually unkempt or filthy.
• •    If they seem malnourished or not receiving their proper medications.

Additional information can be obtained from Pacific Area Senior Lead Officers, your area’s Agency on Aging, or Adult Protective Services. Everyone has a moral obligation to report suspected cases of elder abuse to the Police or other social service agencies. The elderly have earned the right to have their home be a place of comfort, not a source of punishment and fear.

JON F. PETERS,

Captain

Commanding Officer Pacific Community Police Station

District News
Note: The crime statistics quoted are taken from a report published weekly by the City Of Los Angeles’ Information Resources Division. These statistics are the most current available and represent the period of April 1, 2011 through April 30, 2011.

Basic Car 14A11 Venice Beach District
Senior Lead Officer Theresa Skinner -Cell Phone # (310) 622-3968

Basic Car Coordinator Sergeant Merlo – # (310) 482-6334
Crime Trends
The following are the crime statistics representing April 1, 2011 through April 30, 2011:

• Aggravated Assaults    9
• Burglary / Theft from vehicle    9
• Robbery    5
• Burglary (Residential/Business)    16
• Grand Theft Autos    7
• Sexual Crime    0
• Homicide    0
• Theft    23

During this rating period Aggravated Assaults has become a problem in the Venice Beach Marina Del Rey Peninsula areas. It is human nature to sometimes disagree, how you handle the problem is what really counts. We must learn we can settle problems or disagreements without resorting to violence. When tempers heat up, try to calm down. Walk away, take some deep breaths, calm down and once you can think clearly talk to one another. Tell each other what you need and be willing to compromise. Find a solution that both parties can live with. If you observe any suspicious activities call the police right away.
Robbery safety tips:
Robbery can occur anywhere on the streets, at work, near your home, in stores etc. Be smart use caution; be cognizant of your surroundings. Robbery is often associated with other crimes such as rape, thefts, GTA and assaults.
Reminder
•    PACIFIC RESERVE MEETING Thursday, May 12, 2011 @ 7:00 p.m. Pacific Community Station 12312 Culver Blvd., Los Angeles

Basic Car 14A13 Oakwood District
Senior Lead Officer Theresa Skinner – Cell Phone # (310) 622-3970

Basic Car Coordinator Sergeant Merlo – (310) 482-6334
Crime Trends
The following are the crime statistics representing April 1, 2011 through April 30, 2011:

• Aggravated Assaults    2
• Burglary / Theft from Vehicle    6
• Robbery    3
• Grand Theft Auto    3
• Burglaries (Residential/Business)    10
• Sexual Crime    0
• Homicide    0
• Theft    19

During this rating period Theft (Petty) has become a problem in our area. Overall crime this period has continued to decrease but petty theft is on the rise. Most petty theft suspects seek easy targets. They are often times described as opportunist criminals because they take what is left outside or unsecured items that are usual hand held small items. Teach family members to place all items where they belong, lock and secure all items in the garage or storage bin. Lock and secure your property any time it is not occupied. If you observe any suspicious activities contact the police right away.
Safety Tips
•    Banking safety tips:
While at the teller’s window count your money and place it in your purse or pocket before you leave the window. Make a complete turn. Check your surroundings for any suspicious characters.
•    PACIFIC HOMELESS OUTREACH MEETING Tuesday, May 17, 2011 @ 6:30 p.m. Pacific Roll Call Room 12312 Culver Blvd., Los Angeles

Pacific Area Upcoming Events 2011
Note: All event and meeting information is subject to change. To confirm dates, times,
added and locations call your Senior Lead Officer at (310) 202-4587.

Events will be or updated as new information is received.
HOTEL SECURITY DIRECTORS MEETING
Wednesday, May 4, 2011 @ 9:00 a.m. Loc. TBA SLO Garcia
PALMS/ WESTSIDE VILLAGE NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH MEETING
Tuesday, May 4, 2011 @ 6:30 p.m. I.M.A.N. Cultural Center Auditorium 3376 Motor Avenue, Los Angeles SLO Ceja
PACIFIC BOOSTERS MEETING
Thursday, May 5, 2011 @ 8:30 a.m. Pacific Station Roll Call Room 12312 Culver Blvd., Los Angeles Officer Delatori
SLAUSON NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH MEETING
Wednesday, May 11, 2011 @ 7:00 p.m. Pacific Station Roll Call Room SLO Garcia
PACIFIC RESERVE MEETING
Thursday, May 12, 2011 @ 7:00 p.m. Pacific Station Roll Room 12312 Culver Blvd., Los Angeles
PACIFIC HOMELESS OUTREACH MEETING
Tuesday, May 17, 2011 @ 6:30 p.m. Pacific Station Roll Call Room 12312 Culver Blvd., Los Angeles Officer Newson
GLASGOW NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH MEETING
Tuesday, May 17, 2011 @ 7:00 p.m. 7128 Glasgow Av., Los Angeles SLO Garcia
COMMUNITY POLICE ADVISORY BOARD MEETING
Wednesday, May 18, 2011 @ 7:00 p.m. Playa vista Community Ctr. Marina Del Ray Sgt. Merlo
LADERA CIVIC CENTER ASSOCIATION MEETING
Thursday, May 19, 2011 @ 7:30 p.m. Ladera Sheriff’s Sub-Station SLO Garcia
READING RANGERS NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH MEETING
Wednesday, May 25, 2011 @ 7:00 p.m. 8218 Reading Av., Los Angeles SLO Garcia
La VILLA MARINA HOMEOWNERS ASSC. NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH MEETING Tuesday, May 31, 2011 @ 7:30 p.m. Chase Burton Park
SLO Cruz
Wisdom for the month of May “Lifelong dreams maybe delayed but never crushed.”

Click to see full sized image - Venice Beach Quadrangle Tsunami Inundation map

FULL TSUNAMI PREPARATION FACTS AND DRILL INFORMATION BELOW

The day the tsunami wave was projected to reach Venice Beach, LAPD was on the scene at Venice Pier, helicopters overhead warning people to evacuate from the coastline. LAFD had rescue rafts at the ready, and the Coast Guard had multiple boats and helicopters in the air at the ready in the event anyone’s safety was at risk. Had we suffered the same fate as Santa Cruz or other cities north of us, they would have been busy as hundreds crowded the parking lots by the closed piers and beach areas to see the wave come in. Surfers were even rushing out into the water against LAPD and Lifeguard warnings to catch the big one.

Now, being reasonable, it was widely reported that we were not expected to be in real danger. As a man was swept out to sea in northern California trying to photograph the incoming wave, and people with their young children were reported all along the coast going to spectate the event, it calls our ability to put our own safety and the safety of our loved ones above gawking at an incoming spectacle. Especially one that could kill you and devastate property.

For Tsunami Awareness Week, the following updated map and information shows the projected inundation area for the Venice Beach Quadrangle. As you can see by the area shown in red ( download the whole document here ), a tsunami wave could reach as far as the 405 freeway, flooding and sweeping everything in its path along the way. Please take a moment to review this document, and in the event a quake strikes another part of the globe, or even here at home resulting in a tsunami warning – let better reasoning prevail and please move to safety, and not to spectate! Make a tsunami preparation plan that includes food, water and collecting and moving your animals and family to a point of safety.

What to do:

Click for printable Tsunami Safety Diagram

Millions of people enjoy California’s wonderful coastline. Whether you live, work, or visit, it is important to be aware that the coastal region is vulnerable to tsunamis.  California’s large active offshore faults and unstable submarine slopes can cause tsunami activity along the coast.

Strong ground shaking from an earthquake is the natural warning that a tsunami might be coming. If you are on the beach or in a harbor and feel an earthquake, immediately move inland or go to high ground.  If strong shaking lasts for 20 seconds or more, everyone within the tsunami evacuation area should evacuate as soon as it is safe to do so.  Other natural warnings include seeing the ocean quickly recede to expose the ocean bottom, or hearing an unusually loud roar coming from the ocean.  A tsunami can arrive within minutes and may last for several hours.

For tsunamis coming from across the ocean, local communities use a variety of communication methods to broadcast emergency information. Be informed on what signals, sirens, and public services will be employed for your area. Practice tsunami evacuation drills.

Locally generated tsunamis in California include:

• January 26, 1700 – A magnitude 9 earthquake along California’s north coast generated a major tsunami. Oral histories of Native Americans in this region incorporate recollections from this event.
• December 21, 1812 – A local earthquake triggered a tsunami near Santa Barbara. Residents in coastal villages were so alarmed that they retreated several miles inland to the nearby Santa Barbara Mission.
• November 4, 1927 – A magnitude 7.1 earthquake off the coast of northern Santa Barbara County caused a six-foot-high tsunami along portions of the central coast.

Tsunami Preparedness

First, find out if you live, work or play in a tsunami hazard area ( VENICE BEACH IS A HAZARD AREA ):

• Use the links listed below to find out where tsunami hazard zones occur.
• Information from these websites can help you identify the tsunami hazard area in your community and help you prepare. Check out the county web pages on the CGS website for evacuation plans for your community.  If you are located just outside of a tsunami hazard area, you may consider working with your community to see what kind of assistance you might be able to provide for those that are in a tsunami hazard area and will need to relocate.

CGS website

http://www.consrv.ca.gov/cgs/geologic_hazards/Tsunami/Inundation_Maps/Pages/Statewide_Maps.aspx

CalEMA MyHazards

http://myhazards.calema.ca.gov/

North Coast (Del Norte and Humboldt Counties)

http://www.humboldt.edu/rctwg/site/projects/images/uploads/images/uploads/tsunamievaczone.pdf

Plan a Tsunami Evacuation Drill

• Identify if there is an evacuation plan in place for your site.  Contact your building manager, school district, city or county offices to find out the recommended procedures.  Additionally, the California Geological Survey Tsunami website provides many links to local, regional, state, and national information sources.
• If there is no evacuation plan in place, learn what the recommended tsunami evacuation routes are in your city, county and region. Some cities and counties have this information available online. Identify safety zone(s) near you, and plan your primary and secondary evacuation routes.
• Identify what your evacuation destination will be (school, church, parking lot).
• Prior to an evacuation drill, walk your evacuation route. Make sure there are no potential hazards that may prevent your staff/students/family from using this evacuation route safely.
• Coordinate in advance to have volunteer groups (from non evacuation areas) serve refreshments to evacuation drill participants.  After the drill, have a safety fair planned: invite local emergency response groups, learn emergency preparedness skills, distribute tsunami and earthquake preparedness information.
• For school evacuation drills, plan for interactive educational tsunami activities at the relocation area (for ideas see CGS tsunami education link).  Provide a snack. Have a guest speaker.

Know the warning signs

• An earthquake in your area is one of nature’s tsunami warning signals. Do not stay in low-lying coastal areas after a strong earthquake has been felt.
• Tsunamis are sometimes preceded by a noticeable receding of sea level as the ocean retreats seaward exposing the seafloor. A roar like an oncoming train may sometimes be heard as the tsunami wave rushes toward the shore. These are also nature’s tsunami warning signals.
• A tsunami is not a single wave, but a series of waves. Stay out of danger areas until an “all-clear” is issued by competent authority.

Understand how your community will broadcast official tsunami emergency information

• Tsunami warnings may be by radio, television, telephone, text message, door-to-door contact, NOAA weather radios, outdoor sirens.
• During a tsunami emergency, your local civil defense, police, and other emergency organizations will try to save your life. Give them your fullest cooperation.
  • All warnings to the public must be taken very seriously, even if some are for non-destructive events. The tsunami of May 1960 killed 61 people in Hilo, Hawaii because some thought it was just another false alarm.

Be Prepared

• Look for the blue and white tsunami evacuation signs along the coast.
• Assemble a small evacuation kit (essential documents, medications, flashlight, portable NOAA weather radio and batteries, water, snack, warm clothes, silver “space blanket).
• Make a reunification plan with your family. Decide when and where you will meet if you are separated. Designate an out of state relative or friend for the individuals in your family to call if it is not possible to meet at your reunification spot.
• Make plans for how to address any needs or disabilities you might have.
• · For more information on how to prepare go to How to Survive a Tsunami

Contact other Emergency Response Groups in Your Area

• Consider joining your Community Emergency Response Team:  www.csc.ca.gov/cc/cert.asp
• Find out if other organizations, agencies, or schools in your area are participating in a tsunami drill. Even if you are in an area that does not require evacuation, volunteer to work at relocation sites, comfort stations, or animal care facilities in your area. Learn what the potential needs of your community might be.
• Share ideas and coordinate resources. For example, your elementary school may need to evacuate to another school, church, or business; coordinate with them to work out details such as how to enter the site and where to assemble.

Important Online Resources

Official State Tsunami Hazard Zones:

CGS Tsunami Inundation Maps             http://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/geologic_hazards/Tsunami/Inundation_Maps/Pages/Statewide_Maps.aspx

CalEMA MyHazards  http://myhazards.calema.ca.gov/

Tsunami Education

CGS Tsunami Education http://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/geologic_hazards/Tsunami/Pages/education.aspx

K-12 curriculum, activity sheets, and booklets

About Tsunamis

CGS Tsunami http://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/geologic_hazards/Tsunami/Inundation_Maps/Pages/Index.aspx

Redwood Coast Tsunami Working Group http://www.humboldt.edu/rctwg/site/projects/images/uploads/images/uploads/tsunamievaczone.pdf

NOAA Tsunami Warning Center http://wcatwc.arh.noaa.gov/

Preparing for earthquakes:

The Great California ShakeOut http://www.shakeout.org/

Earthquake Country Alliance http://www.earthquakecountry.info/

Dare to Prepare http://www.daretoprepare.org/

CalEMA http://cms.calema.ca.gov/prep_tsunami.aspx

Red Cross http://www.redcross.org/

Local County Office of Emergency Services (CGS Tsunami Inundation Map links)

http://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/geologic_hazards/Tsunami/Inundation_Maps/Pages/Statewide_Maps.aspx

More information for Tsunami Awareness and Preparedness Week

	National Tsunami Awareness and Preparedness Week March 20-26, 2011 FREE tsunami education MATERIALS and activity ideas for schools, museums, and businesses in California are available (see links below)
	For emergency planners in coastal jurisdictions, the California Emergency Management Agency (CalEMA) and the California Geological Survey (CGS) are available to support you regarding tsunami hazards in California, including your public education and outreach efforts for Tsunami Awareness Week. For more information on Tsunami Awareness and Preparedness Week resources and support available from CGS and Cal EMA, contact:
	Cindy Pridmore CGS Outreach/Seismic Hazards California Geological Survey 801 K Street, MS 12-31 Sacramento, CA 95814  916-324-5572 cpridmore@consrv.ca.gov	Kevin M. Miller Earthquake & Tsunami Program California Emergency Management Agency 1300 Clay Street, Suite 400, Oakland, CA 94612  510-286-0817 Kevin.Miller@calema.ca.gov

The California Geological Survey (CGS) provides geologic and seismic expertise to the public, other State government offices, such as the California Emergency Management Agency (CalEMA; formally known as the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services), and local government agencies (cities and counties). For tsunami hazards, CGS is working closely with CalEMA and the Tsunami Research Center at the University of Southern California to produce statewide tsunami inundation maps and preparedness information for California. CGS is also the Scientific Representative for California on the National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Program Coordinating Committee, a state and federal cooperative responsible for developing policies and standards for tsunami mitigation efforts in the United States and its territories.