Police and Fire Department officials visited last week’s meeting of the Fox Chase Civic Association.
Fire Lt. Malik Willard, a Fox Chase resident, spoke about fire safety. Willard’s suggestions included making sure your address is clear if a fire truck comes to your house; establishing an outdoor family meeting spot in case of a home fire; and closing bedroom doors before going to sleep to keep smoke out.
Willard said smoke detectors, with 10-year batteries, are available at fire stations or by calling 311. He also recommends buying carbon monoxide detectors.
Rockledge Police Chief John Gallagher said his department has increased foot patrols, helping lead to a decrease in thefts from auto. The department’s stats show an increase in traffic enforcement, and officers have increased their presence at school bus stops.
Gallagher announced that the St. Cecilia School Legacy Run will take place on Saturday, April 20. Sign up at https://runningintheusa.com/details/137457.
Joe Stasczak, community relations officer in the 7th Police District, spoke of a stabbing on the 8200 block of Rose Petal Drive and residential burglaries on the 2400 block of Hoffnagle St. and the 2100 block of Stanwood St.
Stasczak, a 34-year veteran, said he will be retiring in 11 months.
The 2nd Police District was represented by Capt. Marc Metellus, Lt. Joe Mortimer, Lt. Tim Veal and community relations officer Mark Mroz.
A benefit will take place on Thursday, Feb. 22, from 6-10 p.m. at Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5, 11630 Caroline Road, for three 2nd district officers shot in October during an incident on the 7500 block of Whitaker Ave. The event will honor Sgt. Mitchell Farrell and Officers John Hesdon and Samantha Gress. There will be a silent auction, DJ and raffle baskets. No tickets will be sold, but monetary donations will be accepted at the door. For more information, call Officer Judy Kinniry at 267-515-8887, Cpl. Christopher Bennett at 215-605-0414 or Erin O’Donnell at 215-205-1922.
Steve Phillips, the longtime Fox Chase Town Watch president, donated three items for the auction and raffle: an autographed Ryan Howard bat, a bottle of wine and a bottle of blackberry brandy.
In other news from the Jan. 10 meeting, members sang Happy Birthday to Linda Gaynor, an aide to City Councilman Brian O’Neill.
Fox Chase Civic Association will meet on Wednesday, Feb. 14, at 7:30 p.m. at American Legion Loudenslager Post 366, 7976 Oxford Ave. ••
