By Andrew Hackmack
Slevinski was honored by the Civilian Patrol during a luncheon last Sunday afternoon at the Pompei restaurant in West Hempstead. Fred Jung was also recognized for his creation and upkeep of the Civilian Patrol's Web site.
Every day, Slevinski compiles a crime report which includes robberies, burglaries, auto thefts, DWIs and other incidents in the Fifth Precinct. This information benefits the Civilian Patrol because members will know what areas of the community they should pay close attention to.
"Stan explains how we can best patrol Valley Stream in a safe an efficient manner," said Guy Ferrara, vice president of the patrol, who added that he speaks with Slevinski at least once a week.
The police have made numerous arrests as a result of tips from the Civilian Patrol over the years. Information is reported much quicker in the ages of cell phones, as the patrol members can call 911 as soon as they see something. In the past, Slevinski said, they would have to radio a base station and then that person would call the police.
Slevinski, honored as Patrolman of the Year, said he was touched by the award, but said it is members of the Civilian Patrol who deserve the recognition. "We should be giving them an award," Slevinski said. "It's a good organization. They are the eyes and ears of the police department."
He noted that the awards ceremony was a great chance to meet members of the Civilian Patrol and put faces to names of people he has spoken to from time to time. Slevinski praised their commitment to protecting the community. "Although they're not police, they're very observant," he said. "There are too many civilians that don't get involved."
The Civilian Patrol, with a membership of about 35 members, has seen its volunteer base dwindle in recent years. That's why Jung gave the group an online presence --www.valleystreamcivilianpatrol.org -- to raise awareness about what it does. One can even fill out an online application to join. "Hopefully the Web site will start bringing in more members because that's really the reason for that," he said.
Jung said he taught himself basic HTML language to create the Web site and found a hosting site. The four-year member of the Civilian Patrol did not know he was being honored on Sunday. "It was totally unexpected," he said. "I never even considered the thought of getting an award because it's something I want to do."
Civilian Patrol President Ralph Polverino said the Web site has been successful in recruiting some new members and hopes the trend continues.
George Catalanotto said one doesn't need to have any experience in law enforcement to join the group. And, he said, being a member is not a big commitment. "It's just two hours a week," he said. "All our patrols are done with a partner so you're never alone."
