Talk will focus on gangs

Would the average citizen or young person in Ocean County recognize gang signs, markings, colors, symbols or clothing? Do parents, caregivers, youth workers and community leaders need advice on keeping their children and communities gang free?

If the answer is yes to either or both questions, parents and their children may want to attend "The Gang Wise Project" presentation at the Ocean County Library Lakewood branch on Feb. 7 at 5:30 p.m. This program is for adults and youths age 12 and up.

State Sen. Robert Singer will open the Lakewood session. The program will be presented in English and Spanish.

Attendees will hear expert speakers: Lt. Edwin Torres, New Jersey Office of the Attorney General-Juvenile Justice Commission, as well as Rory Wells of the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office and learn why gangs exist and how gangs lure young people to join. They will get advice on how to resist gang involvement.

This community awareness program is a partnership between the New Jersey Attorney General's Office, the New Jersey Governor's Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, Ocean County Health Department, Ocean County Library, Ocean County Municipal Alliances, Ocean County Prosecutor's Office working in conjunction with the New Jersey Superior Court Juvenile Intake, Ocean County.

Professional development certificates will be given to educators attending.

Additional information and resources will be posted at the Web site www.oceancountylibrary.org. Registration for individuals or groups is required by calling (732) 363-1435. The program includes light dinner refreshments.