nlssa springsummer newsletter · address their services and security needs at their capitols . you...

Greetings NLSSA Members: Your Executive Board has been working diligently to prepare for this year’s Professional Development Semi-

nar scheduled to be held in Concord, New Hampshire. With this effort, combined with the hard work and support of the host state committee in New Hampshire, we are confident that the seminar will be a great success. I personally want to thank Deborah Nielsen, host state chair, and the host state committee for their efforts in planning for and meeting the anticipated needs of the conference.

As preparations continue for this year’s Professional Development Seminar I want to encourage each member of the NLSSA to express and share your individual needs and concerns regarding the training that you would like to see offered. The diverse roles and responsibilities that we each perform in our respective legislatures require that we sometimes think “outside the box” to insure that the topics that the NLSSA provides for training adequately address the needs and requirements of its membership. The training conferences that we annually make available to staff helps to better equip us for the daily challenges that we each face, and are paramount in further developing our skills as managers, administrators and service providers for our legislatures. Without your valuable input, it is difficult to plan relevant subject matter for training purposes, and to provide you with the tools necessary to help you become better prepared. So, please forward your thoughts and ideas to any of the Executive Board members of the NLSSA, or to our NCSL Liaison, Morgan Cullen.

I especially want to take this time to recognize our Life Members, who through their long-time dedication and support to the NLSSA have given “life” to the Association. Without their great leadership and hard work over the years, the NLSSA would not be the organization it is today. I want to thank each one of them for the invaluable contribution of time and effort they have so unselfishly given in the past. It is always great to see them when we meet and to have an opportunity to reflect upon the journey they have already traveled—the one we travel today. It is my sincere hope and desire that our Life Members will consider attending this year’s Professional Development Seminar. Their words of advice and counsel are wise; and, the stories they can share, are nothing less than a treas-ure cherished. Thank you, Life Members, for being the frontiersmen and leaders of our past. Thank you for the ex-ample that you have given us to follow! As our Life Members can attest, membership in the NLSSA is a great way to network with your counter-parts from all regions of the country. Another person in another state, at some point, may very well have addressed a question that now confronts you. Questions that may leave you perplexed and uncertain can be readily dissemi-nated to other members from other legislatures via the NLSSA listserv. You may have a question about how other states handle an issue or a problem that you are confronted with; you may be interested in learning how other states address their services and security needs at their Capitols. You may simply want to become acquainted with your counterparts from other states. Whatever need you may have, the NLSSA e-mail discussion group is a great way to get answers to your questions and to glean valuable information from others who have shared experiences. I encour-age you take part in the NLSSA e-mail discussion group when you need information. Instructions on how to sub-scribe to the NLSSA listserv can be found on the NLSSA website: http://ncsl.org/programs/legismgt/nlssa/nlssabro.htm .

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From the Office of the President

National Legislative Services and Security Association

NLSSA NEWSLETTER Spring & Summer 2008

NLSSA 2007—2008 Executive Board

It is with great expectation that you will continue to support the NLSSA with your volunteerism and hard work to insure that this wonderful organization can be all it can be. The effort you put forth helps make it possible for others to im-prove their professional development, and to become valued employees for their legislature. I encourage each one of you to become involved in the work of the NLSSA through the work of the various committees that are assigned numerous tasks. Remember, the work of only a few produces little. However, the work of many produces much.

The NLSSA needs leadership, and you can be a leader! I want to encourage you to consider serving as a regional

chair or vice chair of your region this year. I exhort you to think about serving on the Executive Board as a national officer. The NLSSA needs you, and it is up to you to accept the challenge and help lead the NLSSA into the future.

Respectfully yours,

Earnest W. Sumner Earnest W. Sumner NLSSA President

President—Earnest W. Sumner 1st Trustee—Donald A. Severance House Sergeant at Arms, Florida Senate Sergeant at Arms, Florida Vice President—Clarence Russ 2nd Trustee—Carl Barnhart House Chief Sergeant at Arms, House of Representatives-Supervisor, Pennsylvania Louisiana Secretary—Jimmetta G. Peoples 3rd Trustee—Ted Blazel Senate Security, Alabama Senate Sergeant at Arms, Wisconsin Treasurer—Glenda Smith Sergeant at Arms—Dennis R. Trimble Director of Accounting, California Assistant Director-Buildings & Grounds, Ohio

Secretary’s Message Welcome to the 2008 Spring/Summer Edition of the National Legislative Services and Security Association Newsletter. Enjoy this publication as a gateway to pertinent information as well as other interesting topics! In an effort to provide an informative newsletter, your help and continued support is needed. Submit information for the Fall/Winter edition by October 31, 2008. Use the following submission guidelines: • E-mail is the preferred format for all submissions. • All articles must be in Microsoft Word Format. No more than one page, single-spaced typed. • Make sure all articles are approved. • Submit photos in JPG format and with a brief description of each photo. Include the photos as separate attachments in the same email as the attached article. Special thanks to the members of NLSSA who submitted articles and photographs and to the Alabama State Senate for pub-lication printing and shipping. It is an honor to serve you as Secretary and Newsletter Editor. I am looking forward to seeing each of you at all of the sched-uled 2008 NLSSA Training. Jimmetta G. Peoples Senate Security Alabama Senate Office: (334) 353-3540 Email: [email protected]


NLSSA REGIONS


MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

SELECT COMMITTEE ON AWARDS

During the last several weeks, the NLSSA Membership Committee has been very busy contacting each of the current 60 life members in an effort to gauge support. “It was a joy to talk to so many old friends and the people I had always heard about over the years, but never had the pleasure to meet,” said Dennis Trimble. “Of the 49 life members I spoke with, each and every one is still interested in the NLSSA, and would like to continue to be engaged.” The process of reaching out to each of these members has been a significant task for the Membership Committee. Many of the members had moved, or their contact information had changed. Out of the original 60 life members on the NLSAA roster, 49 were successfully reached. The committee has gathered current contact information to ensure that our life members receive news and information through the NLSAA newsletter, as well as an updated roster. During the process, the committee learned that three life members have passed away. These members are: Danny R. Day of Illinois, Leroy Cain of South Carolina and Harry J. Pickering, Sr. of Vermont. Our condolences go out the families of these former members of NLSSA. The Membership Committee is continuing to try to reach eight life members. We ask for your assistance in locating these members so that our roster becomes complete. The life members we are trying to locate include: Larry Fox (Kansas), Nancy Young (Louisiana), Kathryn Ann “Kit” Askin (Michigan), Arthur J. Palmer, Jr. (Nevada), A.J. Pellicci (New York), Patrick J. McShane (Pennsylvania), Arnold R. Kelly (Texas) and Ron Hinkle (Texas). If you have any information on any of these life members, please contact Morgan Cullen, NLSSA liaison to NCSL at 303-856-1431 or Dennis Trimble, Membership Committee Chairman at 614-466-2251.

It is once again time for all of us to consider the members of our group that should be recognized for their special abilities and contributions.

Please read the following descriptions and consider potential candidates for the three awards that NLSSA members are eligible to receive.

Remember we need to have nominations by mid May in order to present them in New Orleans in July !!! They are as follows:

Tony Beard Memorial Award

John Everhardt "Trooper" Award Legislative Staff Achievement Award

Each Region is being asked to submit persons to be considered from their area. Each submission must be accompanied by a WRITTEN statement of qualification and achievement. Nominations need to be made based on thoughtful and thoroughly

considered deeds and events so as not to lessen the importance of the honor. These awards do not need to be given each year, so this is not something that you must find someone for, but something that you can make use of to honor a deserving public

servant. Each region can make as may nominations as they wish. Former recipients are listed on our website. If you would like to mail your nominations, my mailing address is:

Jennifer Hodge Coordinator, Capitol Office 200 W. Washington St. Room 220

Indianapolis, IN 46024 Direct phone line: 317-233-9830

Email: [email protected]

Nominations for the Legislative Staff Achievement Award must received by May 1st in order to be considered.



Please ask your region members to refer to the following criteria when considering a candidate:

Tony Beard Memorial Award

Recipient must have spent many years serving NLSSA, or someone who has exerted an extraordinary effort on behalf of the Association. The word "extraordinary," means something that is unexpected, astonishing, amazing, exceptional, remarkable

or great. This award is a lifetime achievement award and is the most coveted of all NLSSA awards Very careful consideration should be given to the selection of possible candidates for nomination.

John Everhardt "Trooper" Award

Recipient must have done something outstanding in their state that supported the legislative process and improved the effec-tiveness of the legislative institution, and/or, who has been a long-standing member of NLSSA who has shown the qualities of

professionalism and integrity.

Legislative Staff Achievement Award

This Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee award may be awarded to an individual and/or office from each staff section of NCSL who has been recognized for excellence in legislative work. Two recipients may be nominated each year to receive this award. The selection process must be equitable and open to all NLSSA members. "Excellence" can be defined as; top-quality,

distinctive, of merit, outstanding, first-class, or expert. This can be awarded to a group as well as an individual.

Alabama Tourism Director Lee Sentell

Lee Sentell, a native of Ashland, Alabama, was appointed by Gov. Bob Riley on January 15, 2003, to serve as the Director of the Alabama Tourism Department. Sentell was the director of tourism for the Huntsville Convention & Visitors Bureau for 12 years. He was director of marketing for the U.S. Space & Rocket Center for 10 years, developing ad-vertising and marketing plans for the tourist attraction and establishing marketing programs for U.S. Space Camp. Under his skilled leadership, the Alabama Tourism Department has won several awards for its marketing campaigns from the Travel Industry Association of America, the National Council of State Tourism Directors and the Public Relations Council. The department has also been named Tourism Organization of the Year for three years in a row by the Southeast Tourism Society. Sentell attended Auburn University where he received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communi-cations. Submitted by: Lewis Kelly Senate Security, Alabama

STATES AT A GLANCE


MAKING A LIST AND CHECKING IT TWICE… Getting Ready for Session

No, we’re not talking about Santa Clause. Most, if not all of you have your very own list that must be checked and re-checked as you prepare for your state’s annual legislative session. Since Florida’s regular legislative session is just around the corner, the Sergeant’s Office and everyone else in the House of Representatives is scurrying about in a full-blown effort to be prepared for the big show. The Florida constitution says that “A regular session of the legislature shall convene on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in March". At the time of this writing, that puts us exactly 13 days away from Opening Day. Our office began preparation before the New Year began. One of our biggest challenges is always finding good temporary help to augment our permanent staff to manage the increased work load that session brings. To date, we have hired 43 additional staff for the 2008 legislative session. These temporary employees include housekeepers, janitorial staff, shuttle drivers, door-keepers, security staff, lounge attendants, page supervisors, an administrative assistant, and an audio visual technician. Another huge component that must be updated and in place before session begins is the House Emergency Plan and the Floor Warden program. We recruit almost 60 volunteers from House staff to serve as Floor Wardens. These staff persons assist in the orderly and safe evacuation of fellow staff and the public in the event of an emergency. They are equipped with floor plans identifying staff locations, mobility impaired persons, as well as complete “muster lists” of every person employed by the House. The Floor Wardens’ evacuation kit contains a vest, radio, flashlight, chemical light-sticks, first aid supplies, and a whistle to aid them in carrying out their duties. A short one-hour training class is scheduled to give them all the necessary training required to succeed in their role. These are two of the biggest items on the Sergeant’s pre-session list. Other important items include arranging for off-site parking and shuttle service, collection of confidential emergency contact information and session pay check distribution infor-mation from Members and district staff, sending out correspondence for the Minister of the Day Program, and assisting the Speaker’s Office with Opening Day Chamber and Gallery seating requirements. The list indeed goes on. So, what does your list look like? One of the real benefits of belonging to our association is the networking that takes place between colleagues in different states. Do you see some common items between our state and yours? Maybe you notice some items that are unique? One thing’s for sure…session is coming and you better get ready! Marty McDonald Florida House of Representatives Deputy Sergeant at Arms

STATES AT A GLANCE …..CONTINUED


The members of the 2008-2012 Louisiana Legislature hit the ground running shortly after taking office January 14, 2008. In the first two months of the new term, legislators held two special legislative sessions and prepared for the beginning of the regular session beginning March 31, 2008. In the first special session called by newly-elected Governor Bobby Jindal, lawmakers approved a series of sweeping governmen-tal ethics reforms. The reforms, which impact all levels of government, address financial disclosure on the part of public servants and lobbyists, lobbyists' reporting requirements, legislators' conflicts-of-interest, ethics enforcement, campaign financing and more. The nation is taking note of Louisiana's accomplishments in the area of governmental ethics reform. The Center for Public Integ-rity, a non-profit government watchdog group, now ranks Louisiana's financial disclosure laws number one in the nation! In the second special session, the legislature moved to eliminate a series of taxes on business that were widely considered deter-rents to business development and expansion in Louisiana. Lawmakers also agreed to provide parents of school children - whether attending public school, private school or home-school - tax relief for certain out-of-pocket costs associated with the education of their child. And, over $1 billion in surplus state funds from the 07-08 state budget year were strategically invested in infrastructure needs and economic development initiatives. The fast-paced work of the new Louisiana Legislature is particularly noteworthy since this is the first legislature impacted by term limits. In the Louisiana Senate alone, 18 of the 39 members are new to the Senate. Submitted by: John Keller Louisiana Senate Sergeant at Arms

Art Memorial will Honor Fallen Marines of Lima Company

The Lima Company Memorial: A Remembrance of Spirit & Choice will be on view at the Ohio Statehouse from Memorial Day weekend through Veterans Day weekend, 2008. This exhibition was created in memory of 22 fallen Marines and a Navy Corps-man from the Lima Company, who lost their lives while serving in Iraq in 2005. The exhibition will be unveiled in the Ohio Statehouse Rotunda on May 23, 2008 and will be on view through November 11, 2008.

The Ohio-based Marine Reserve unit, once known as “Lucky Lima,” was one of the hardest hit single units in Operation Iraqi Freedom, suffering deaths of 23 Marines and their Navy Corpsman. Created by Columbus artist Anita Miller, the memorial will contain life-sized paintings of each of the 23 fallen heroes. Names and statistics of each of the fallen men, an ever-living candle, boots and space for visitors to leave mementos will also be part of this moving memorial installation. Miller has worked during the last two years to paint the memorial. She has created eight painted panels set in an octagon that depict portraits of each of the 23 men who lost their lives in the war. “It is my honor and privilege to work on the Lima Company Memorial. As an artist, there is no greater challenge than to paint my nation’s heroes,” said Anita Miller. “It is my hope that through the Lima


STATES AT A GLANCE ….. CONTINUED


SPRING HAS SPRUNG IN COLUMBIA

The blooming of the great Japanese Magnolia on the front lawn of South Carolina's State House annually heralds the arrival of spring to the mid-lands of the Palmetto State. And, guess what? A single glance at this lovely tree last week announced that spring has sprung in Columbia. The beautifully manicured State House lawns, awakening from their winter sleep, have begun the transition from cold-weather brown to the bright green hues which we will see until winter comes again. Many of the plants and shrubs and flowers that make their homes in the carefully-cultivated gardens all around the grounds have begun to show signs of life. Tree limbs that were bare only days ago are now beginning to bud and tease us with the anticipation of fullness and finery to come. The walkways that wind their way throughout the grounds were, during the cold of winter, sparsely populated with people scurrying toward their destinations while buttoning up their coat collars as protection against the elements. The benches that dot the walkways were very nearly abandoned. Now, however, walkers and

runners and sightseers, their faces turned toward the warmth of the sun and their jackets slung over their shoulders, fill the walkways throughout the day. And people of all ages---schoolchildren, college students, men and women who work in downtown Columbia, visitors to the State House---can be seen enjoying lunch while sitting on the benches or on the soft grass of the lawns. No doubt about it, spring has sprung in Columbia! But evidence that the seasons have changed is not only found outside the State House. Inside, the sedate calm of fall and winter has given way to the hustle and bustle that comes with the beginning of another legislative session. The Tour Office and its Gift Shop are a center of activity in the Lower Lobby. Tour Guides depart from here with their groups of up to fifty people every half-hour from 9:30 in the morning until 3:30 in the afternoon, potentially directing 400-500 people through the State House on any given day. Answering the phones, taking tour reservations, making sure our guests are treated with every courtesy available, and assisting customers in the Gift Shop are just a few of the things the


Company Memorial, all people will be able to experience the love and devotion of the Marines whose faithfulness never wa-vered.” The Ohio Statehouse Grande Rotunda will serve as a solemn place to honor these American service members from May 23, 2008 through July 7, 2008. The exhibition will then be featured in the South Hallway under Representatives Hall from July 8 through November 11, 2008.

Submitted by: Dennis Trimble Assistant Director Building & Grounds Ohio



guides do beyond leading tours. Needless to say, as soon as you enter the Lower Lobby, you are struck by the whirlwind of energy that permeates the entire building. Walking through the Lower Lobby and up the grand staircases, senators and representatives make their way to and from their respective chambers, followed by staffers, members of the media, interested citizens, and any number of other people trying to corral them for a moment of conversation. Media briefings and news conferences create constant buzz in the Lower Lobby, the buzz only heightened by the fact that the offices of both Governor Sanford and Lieutenant Governor Bauer are found in this part of the building. The Main Lobby, the Senate Chamber on its east side and the House Chamber on its west side, is, on session days, like a beehive! Lobbyists walk carefully to avoid stepping on each other while they monitor the goings-on in each chamber, work their phones, study their notebooks, and constantly modify their Day Planners. Tour groups---third-graders, high-schoolers, college students, adults both young and old---of as many as fifty snake their way through the maze of people as they follow tour guides who try to speak above the din while pointing out areas and items of interest. Individuals and groups to be recognized by the legislators wait for the sergeants-at-arms staffs to escort them up the narrow stairs to the chamber galleries. The only person in the Main Lobby who seems above all the seeming confusion is John C. Calhoun, whose bronzed personage silently presides over the pro-ceedings below, his expression never changing! The massive renovation of the mid- to late-1990's transformed the South Carolina State House from a musty old building compris-ing a bit of the original, a bit of updating, and a lot of patchwork repair into the grand jewel originally a bit of updating, and a lot of patchwork repair into the grand jewel originally envisioned by the primary architect. It has become a "must see" for those who call South Carolina home and those who are just visiting. Season in and season out, they come to "ooh-and-aah" at its beauty and soak in its history. Every season brings its own unique sights and sounds to the State House. But none is quite as distinctive as springtime. Which is why many people wait to come until… Spring has sprung in Columbia! Submitted by: Yvette Rowland Manager State House Tours and Gift Shop South Carolina

Virginia Division of Capitol Police On October 12th & 13th, 2007, five members of the Virginia Division of Capitol Police participated in the “6th Annual LawFit Chal-lenge” at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Pictured from left to right are Larry Harlow (who won “Mens Rookie of the Year” in the individual competition), and Tony Gulotta, Francis Stevens, Brian Alexander and Bruce McMackle (who partici-pated in the 4-man team competition). This event is sponsored by the National Center for Public Safety Fitness, and consists of a series of six fitness and job-related competitive events that measure officers’ strength, flexibility, cardiovascular efficiency and work performance. Submitted by: Lt, Randall E. Howard Accreditation Manager Division of Capitol Police Common Wealth of Virginia



Blueprints, Bullets and Bushes – An Integrated (or Unique) Approach to Crime Prevention and Facility Design

Inside a shopping mall, critical participants in America's economic system (consumers) are gunned down by a mentally dis-turbed person. At a major university located far from urban crime and disorder, an unstable individual guns down 32 of his peers, including college students and faculty. At a church, worshippers are murdered by a former member of the congrega-tion – again a person with mental instability. A sniper takes a bizarre pilgrimage across the country randomly picking vic-tims in publicly accessible venues. Across the world, we continue to witness horrific acts that are played out in public spaces and facilities. Unfortunately, it is not just the media awakening to report what has been going on all along; it is a true in-crease in bizarre violent crimes. Overlay this with the ever-present specter of terrorism (both international and domestic) and you have a society that is clearly showing signs of fear paralysis. As a young man, I went to these places without the fear of violent crime being a constant companion. As a family man, I must now think of “contingency plans” on what I will do with my family if such events occur while we are there! Ask yourself this question – what impact are these events having on our free and open society? The management of fear is now a topic that facility designers, operators and owners must ad-dress. It is also a key consideration for the emergency response community as well. Consequently, it is crucial for the disci-plines of architecture, engineering, facility operations and emergency response to work hand in hand to manage the fear that has been planted in the minds of our citizens by this ever-increasing type of violent criminal behavior. In order to address this need, let’s first clearly define our problem. We live in a day to day world. We love and relish our routines, our favorite places and we all live by our particular rhythm of life. That life can be the market, the office, the school, the hospital or any one of a number of different types of facilities that we interface with daily. We have our estab-lished comfort zones and always try to stay within them; but, our comfort zones have been penetrated by the unthinkable. A predator is now in our comfort zone, or even worse, a predator MAY be in our comfort zone. Most of us know what to do when faced with a predator – get away. However, what do we do when there MAY be a predator in our comfort zone. How do we deal with that MAYBE? Current reviews of behavior have shown that we cope with this issue in a variety of ways, in-cluding withdrawing and staying away, going to different places, altering the time we spend, decreasing the number of vis-its, going alone and leaving the family behind etc. All of these responses may address an individual concern, but at what cost. Collectively, this is a retreat from our society and has given ground to the bad guys to put them in a position of power. Additionally, these coping strategies decrease the vitality of the economic engine that our society depends upon. Hence, it is clear our problem is the increasing number of threats to the safety and well being of our citizens in public spaces and facili-ties. These threats are not cyclical and will not “go away” with time. They are not sociological phenomenon’s that will disap-pear in ten years. When the infamous bank robber Willie Sutton was asked why he robbed banks, he simply stated because “that is where the money is”. When faced with the type of bizarre criminal who terrorizes our open spaces, one can only sur-mise that he/she does so “because it is where the people are”. The unfortunate conclusion is that the “public predator” is now a part of our landscape whether we acknowledge it or not. Just as the landscaper has to deal with unwanted vegetation, the engineer with the lay of the land, the building manager with the climate, everyone must deal with the "public predator" and the many forms he/she may take. Failure to consider this fact will most definitely lead to a variety of unpleasant conse-quences. Acceptance of the fact that this problem must be reckoned with at all stages in the life of a public space or facility is the first step in managing the “public predator”. With the acknowledgement that this fact exists, can it be dealt with? The answer is an emphatic “yes”! Unfortunately, the standard approach is reliance on the more restrictive and ominous prevention measures–such as more police, more guards, more cameras, more restrictions on individual liberty and a variety of knee-jerk responses that do little but say “look, we did something”. All one needs to do is look around any government facility in the Post 9/11 era and see the results of the tradi-tional, reactionary based approach to safety planning. Barriers, bollards, fences, jersey walls, barbed wire, guard posts, turnstiles etc… are all a visible reminder that the openness and freedoms that we once fully enjoyed are now slowly being eroded in the name of security. Until 9/11, a citizen could walk into his state capitol without having to identify himself, go through screening and otherwise be impeded by representatives of government. I for one, mourn the passing of such times. Our country was founded upon the principles of open and accessible government and the security measures imposed today provide a chilling effect on that freedom. Does it have to be this way? Must we accept the fact that our bucolic way of life is gone forever? We certainly must accept the fact that things have changed because change is the only thing that is truly con-stant. However, it is how we respond to this change that will set us apart from the past and make a blueprint for the future. What can we do to make this better without undesirable consequences? How do we make our publicly accessible areas safer,


INTEGRATED SITE SECURITY AND DESIGN


yet protected from this ever-possible “public predator”? To get started, we need a collaboration like no other. For years, the profes-sional disciplines engaged in facility design rarely crossed paths with the disciplines of emergency response. Facilities were de-signed and built and then emergency response dealt with the problems that occurred in and around the facility. The old adage of two ships passing in the night is still very appropriate to this situation. Therefore, we need to stop those ships and transfer some crewmembers from ship to ship so that the synergies created by the merging of the various skill sets of architects, engineers, law enforcement, fire and rescue , landscape architects, facility operators, facility support and facility occupants can lead to a facility meeting today's challenges. Let the collaboration begin! Currently, there is a unique approach to this collaboration known as “Integrated Site Security and Design (ISSD™).” This ap-proach promotes the incorporation of design features and community policing techniques with the proven principles of crime pre-vention through environmental design (CPTED). The measures necessary to create effective physical security are integrated with environmental design principles, all while maintaining the functional and aesthetic quality of the facility. ISSD™ also brings to the process the knowledge and experience of the professionals who will be responsible for the facility “from cradle to grave”. The concept behind this is timely communication between the people who are responsible for the design and the folks responsible for the management/protection of the facility. Imagine, if you will, what safety provisions can be made if the designer is aware of the crime patterns in the area where a facility will be sited. What impact would knowledge about the “public predator” modus oper-andi have on a facility director establishing operational protocols for the facility? What if the first responder community could be considered when the flow of pedestrian/vehicular traffic in and around the facility is determined? Could the response to incidents be enhanced for all? Consider the lock-out of first responders at Virginia Tech’s Norris Hall and whether such collaboration would have made a difference. In reality, police officers do not think like architects, architects do not think like engineers, engineers do not think like facility managers. However, working together, in the pre-design or retrofit stages of a project can go a very long way in recognition and addressing the impact of the “public predator” and other aspects of crime and disorder that challenge our way of life. The unique perspectives brought to the design table by this variety of disciplines can only make the facility function better and safer. So, how does ISSD™ work? Integrated Site Security and Design is the first site and security planning process to be created that specifically correlates CPTED principles with physical security and site design considerations. Traditional physical security strives to protect assets and prevent crime by using human, physical, and psychological forces. Guards, physical security barriers, electronic sensor/surveillance devices and other security measures are utilized to establish a defensive posture around a protected asset. However, these traditional practices, which are proven effective in the short term, may, in many cases, produce long term financial and social costs. Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a method that uses a behaviorally-based understanding of how criminals operate to create places that provide for a minimum opportunity for crime to occur. The core prin-ciples of CPTED - natural surveillances, natural access control and territoriality are achieved by utilizing the inherent character-istics of the built environment. ISSD™ creates the opportunity to positively affect the built environment by merging the tools of physical security with those of CPTED and community policing, maximizing the strengths of each method while lessening their limitations. A key aspect of ISSD™ is to ensure that the security requirements of the facility are clearly established at the pro-gramming stage of the project through the joint participation of all stakeholders in the development of a vulnerability and risk assessment. ISSD™ then merges the risk profile with the operational requirements to create a site and security program that is functional, aesthetic and cost effective. Throughout the ISSD process, communication among diverse stakeholders is paramount and constant. Why should we consider this approach to the design of our public spaces and facilities? The obvious answer to this question is that it addresses the challenges of the “Public predator”, crime and disorder. However, the easiest answer it is that it makes economic sense. Safety and a sense of comfort help keep the economic engine of the consumers running. If our public feels safe, then they will do what they do best – visit our facilities and engage in commerce. If they feel unsafe, they will not spend and will seek out safer places. Additionally, it is the “right” thing to do. There exists a moral obligation to ensure the safety of the people who live, work and engage with our facilities. All of us are a part of the community and it is only natural to make our facilities the safest they can be. ISSD™ can be cost-effective given the potential savings of future retrofits the increased opportunities to create multi-purpose site facilities, and enhanced effectiveness of security features. Premises liability is a growing area of litigation, including significant litigation for failing to provide due diligence in establishing safety measures. The insurance industry is be-ginning to recognize the fact that if there is a significant improvement in a facility’s risk profile (if the ISSD™ approach is used), opportunities for lower insurance costs (reduced risk profile) for the owner and operator of the facility may be possible. Above all, the people who come to the facility will recognize a safe place and the feeling of safety translates into an overall sense of commu-nity well being and the reduction of fear. This sense of safety can be recognized as you observe the people in a public space or fa-cility and see where comfort exists or where fear is apparent. It may not be possible to quantify the sense of well being, but “you know it when you see it”.


INTEGRATED SITE SECURITY AND DESIGN ….. CONT.


The challenge is that the “public predator” and his partners of crime and disorder are here to stay. We can continue to let them manage us or we can be proactive and work together in a collaborative approach to develop new and innovative ways to reduce the impact of the bad and increase the sense of comfort that those who utilize our facilities deserve. Tragedy should not cause us to close the windows and doors of our freedoms. We are the country with immeasurable talent that put the first man on the moon, and we do not give up or give in. Let our American spirit ensure that we work together to make our public spaces and facilities “Safer by Design”. Author: Mr. Michael A. Jones, MS Director – Site Security Consulting Group William H. Gordon Associates, Inc. 4501 Daly Drive Chantilly, Virginia 20151 (703) 263-1900 [email protected] www.whga.com Date of Publication: April 4, 2008 About The Author: Mike Jones, an internationally respected law enforcement leader, is the Director of the Site Security Consulting Group at the firm of William H. Gordon Associates Inc in Chantilly, Va. Mike recently retired from the Virginia Capitol Police as Interim Chief of Police after serving 30 years as a police officer with the Virginia Capitol Police, the Virginia Com-monwealth University Police and the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office. Mike currently serves as a member of the ad-junct faculty cadre for Virginia Commonwealth University School of Government and Public Affairs and the National Criminal Justice Command College of the University of Virginia. Mike also is a member of the Critical Incident Analysis Group (CIAG) at the University of Virginia.

NLSSA E-MAIL DISCUSSION GROUP Do you have a question about how other states handle an issue or a problem you've encountered? Or maybe you just want to meet with your counterparts in other states. Whatever your reason, come join the NLSSA e-mail discussion group.

How Does it Work? It's called a "listserv" in e-mail parlance, and here's how it works. First, you subscribe to the NLSSA e-mail list. Then, every e-mail you or any other subscriber sends to the list's address is automatically distributed to all subscribers. So, if you post a question, it will automatically be sent to every subscriber, and each subscriber's response will automatically be sent to every subscriber. How Do I Subscribe?

1) Send an e-mail to: [email protected] 2) Write only the following in the body of the message: SUBSCRIBE 3) You don't have to write anything in the subject line, but if your e-mail program requires a subject, just say SUB-SCRIBE.

That's all it takes. You will receive a welcome message that provides instructions on how to send e-mail to the list. It's a good idea to save those instructions. If you have any questions or problems with the process, Morgan Cullen, at: [email protected]

INTEGRATED SITE SECURITY AND DESIGN ….. CONT.


The Alabama Legislature held its 13th annual “Legislative Medal of Honor for Law Enforcement Officers” ceremony to recog-nize exemplary service to the citizens of Alabama. The Joint Session of both the Alabama House of Representatives and Alabama State Senate was held April 17 in the House Chamber where fallen Huntsville Police Officer Eric Freeman was named the 2008 recipient. Officer Freeman was fatally wounded on December 14, 2007 when he was assisting other officers at the scene of a traffic accident at which one of the subjects was believed to be drunk. As he and another officer bent down to bring the subject to his feet and arrest him, the subject pulled out a small handgun and fired, striking Officer Freeman in the head. Officer Freeman died at Huntsville Hospital the following morning surrounded by friends and family. The Medal of Honor was presented to Officer Freeman’s wife as their five children looked on. Taking part in the ceremony was Gov. Bob Riley, Lt. Gov. Jim Folsom and House Speaker Seth Hammett, along with Officer Freeman’s colleagues from the Huntsville Police Department and other law enforcement agencies from around the state. In addition to Officer Freeman, six other persons were nominated for the award: Lt. Ryan Bennett and Sgt. Joseph Kelley of the Marine Police Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Cleburne County Deputy Sheriff Gary Howell. Lt. Antonio Loria of the Montgomery Police Department Officer Robert Sims of the Birmingham Police Department Jefferson County Deputy Sheriff Alan Rhea Submitted by: Clay Redden Public Information Director Alabama House of Representatives

Alabama Legislative Law Enforcement Medal of Honor


Governor Riley speaks to nominees for this year’s Legislative Law Enforcement Medal of Honor.

“I’m Hooked” Have you ever been asked to say something about someone or something that you truly love? Well I have. I was asked to write a short article on what it is like to belong to this organization. I will do my best to tell you . Seven years ago when Sam became a member, I thought okay he will go to a few boring meetings and I’ll tag along . I was wrong to say the least. He is involved and enjoys all of it. We the Spouses and guests have a lot of things going on as well. There is always something going on at the conferences. You might say there is never a dull moment. I have made friends with so many people and looked forward to every conference and meeting. Even though I am somewhat of a shy person I look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones. I hope that all of the new members bring a guest because they will be hooked too. You may be like me and get to travel to places that you have never seen before or places you just really enjoy visiting. I have been to capitals of six states as well as many museums and historical places that I would not have been able to see, had it not been for National Legislative Services & Security Association. You find that when you go to the different places, you see things differently. I know when the conference was in Alabama, I saw our state in a whole new light. I thought wow we have a lot to offer too. I know I have talked to spouses in other places that have hosted and they told me the same thing. Maybe we are looking closer . I know for me, our trips with National Legislative Services & Security Association have never been disap-pointing. So if you are a member and have not been to a conference or have just not gotten involved yet, you really should. You will learn so much from others that have similar positions in government agencies like you, such trading ideas, hearing thoughts on things occurring on the job. Sam has also told me that he has called on different National Legislative Services & Security Association member to get advice or opinions. I can remember that we were told at the first conference that we attended, “at the beginning that we might be strangers, but before it was over we would be family.” I have found this to be a true state-ment. I have traded email addresses with other spouses and we keep in touch, because like I said before you make friends. Hope to see everyone soon. Submitted by: Karen Smith Spouse of Sam Smith Alabama Senate Security Spouses & Guests of members at NLSSA 2006 Ohio State and Awards Dinner

Spouse/Guest Connection


Yes, we’re on the Internet!

The NLSSA Web site contains:

Information on NLSSA Officers & Committees

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Recent News Upcoming Meeting Details

Visit Us At: www.ncsl.org/programs/legismgt/nlssa/nlssabro.htm

NLSSA TRAINING …… MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!

NLSSA WEB SITE


June 20—22, 2008 NLSSA Region 4 Annual Training Wampee, Training & Conference Center

Pinopolis, South Carolina

July 20 – 26, 2008 NCSL Legislative Summit New Orleans, Louisiana

September 21 – 25, 2008 NLSSA Annual Training Conference Concord, New Hampshire

July 20 – 25, 2009 NCSL Legislative Summit Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

September 2009 NLSSA Annual Training Conference Carson City, Nevada

July 25—29, 2010 NCSL Legislative Summit Louisville, Kentucky

A Staff Affiliate of the National Conference of State Legislatures



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