Sertoma "Tid Bits"  ---  June 2011

                                                                     

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Subject: Sertoma Warehouse Inventory
Date: 6/9/2011 9:18:45 A.M. Mountain Daylight Time
From: kwatson@sertomahq.org

Dear Customer,

If you need office supplies before the end of the month, please order early, as the warehouse will be closed for inventory starting Monday, June 27- Friday, July 1.  Sertoma Store will reopen for business on the morning of Tuesday, July 5th.

Yours in Service,
Kimberly Watson
Merchandise Manager
 

A special report by Littleton Sertoma's John Smart, 5/24/2011 and edited by Terry Boucher

SUCCESSFUL  BI-DISTRICT LEADERSHIP AND AWARDS LUNCHEON!
 

The Bi-District Leadership and Awards Luncheon was held on Saturday, May 14 at Grace Presbyterian  Church in Centennial, hosted by the Columbine Sertoma Club.  A total of 51 Sertomans from the Central Colorado and Front Range districts registered to attend, ...  Only  12 members from the Front Range District attended, mostly from the Littleton Club . 
 

Front Range District Governor Denny Fennell and Central Colorado District Governor Steve Dawson did a good job of keeping the conference on schedule.
 

Mountain West Region Director Bill Hupp spoke to us first about membership.  Bill advised that each club should have in writing its  plan to obtain new members.   He stated that our region makes up about 42% of Sertoma’s geographical area.  Although he didn’t have the figures in front of him, he thought that total Sertoma membership was approximately 13,000.  Bill stated that we should ask previous members to attend our meetings which could lead them to rejoin.  He presented other good ideas before he had to run out to go to Kansas City for another meeting.  Before leaving, Bill encouraged us to attend the regional convention  at the Palace Station Casino in Las Vegas and that Mike Camelio has been requested to work on an agenda for it.  He did not know how many Sertomans had signed up for the July party in Cancun but the deadline to sign up has been extended to Sunday, June 12, 2011. 
 

C.J. Farr (Jeffco) reported that the Freedom Week Luncheon scheduled for Tuesday, February 21, 2012 will again be at the Pinehurst Country Club since we had a very good experience there this year. 
 

Steve Dawson reported on the April 2nd Wine Pairing Dinner fundraiser which 7or 8 Sertoma clubs in the 2 districts participated. Total revenue was approximately $40,000 out of which $6000 went to the Hear to Work Project, $1000 to the Sertoma Mile High Soap Box Derby, and $13,800 to the participating clubs.  Expenses were higher than anticipated.  A total of 200 attended.  We all appreciated the hard work that was done by the DTC Sertoma Club members who  primarily ran  this event.  Steve stated that DTC will not run the show in 2012 and another Club will have to do it if a decision is made to hold it.    DTC will celebrate its 25th anniversary  in 2012 and the members will be focusing on a celebration for this momentous occasion.

Columbine arranged for a catered lunch which was very good after which awards were given for the 2009-10 Sertoma Year as follows:
 

CENTRAL COLORADO DISTRICT:
 

    SERTOMAN OF THE YEAR: 

        Dr. Faye Rison, Greater Park Hill Sertoma Club
 

    SERVICE TO MANKIND:

        Rhonda Fields, sponsored by Greater Park Hill Sertoma Club
 

    DISTINGUISHED  SECRETARY:

        Ilene Wieder, Dry Creek Sertoma Club
 


FRONT RANGE DISTRICT:              

    SERTOMAN  OF THE YEAR:         

        C. J. Farr, Jeffco Sertoma Club
 

    SERVICE  TO MANKIND:

        Jamie Angelich, sponsored by Chatfield Sertoma Club
 

    DISTINGUISHED SECRETARY:

        Peggy Wait, Littleton Sertoma Club     
 

   
The meeting ended on time around 1:00 PM.  Thanks to the governors and the Columbine Sertoma Club for  a successful event!
 

 

  The Sertoma Mile High Soap Box Derby

   The Sertoma Mile High Soap Box Derby - Meeting on 2nd Wednesdays: 6:30 PM at Jerry Stander's Collision Works: 3900 Norwood Dr, Littleton 80125.   There is a map on their website at www.Standers.com.  Everyone is welcome who is interested in helping out with the Soap Box Derby. 

 

President
Dennis Lawler

June 15, 2011:  How I Became a Sertoman

Volunteerism has a long and noble history in this country, going all the way back to the first settlers who set foot on Plymouth Rock. In order to create a better life for themselves, they volunteered to help their neighbors. They set the stage for future generations of citizens who would band together to open new frontiers, build communities across the land and volunteer their services to help others in need.

Like the founders of Sertoma who first came together 99 years ago, their vision was to create an organization that would improve not only the lives of those in their community immediately, but also those in need across the United States and for years to come. They made a commitment that went far beyond their own lifetimes.

We can take pride in the lives that have been touched by the actions of Sertomans over the last 99 years. When you joined Sertoma, you made a similar commitment to Make a Difference in your community. Through your membership, you were making possible the continuation of the mission and the many programs of Sertoma into our next century of service.

In the past, it was thought individuals volunteered for the welfare of others. The Good Samaritan that goes out of their way to aid a stranger, or the soldier who goes back to save a fallen comrade. It was the noble thing for someone to lend a hand for the greater good of Service to Mankind. Recent studies show there may be other reasons for volunteering: to gain career experience, and build a resume; to build self-esteem; to feel better about oneself; to feel needed; or as a result of deep seeded values that compel them to act; some because they have felt the cruel sting of circumstances like disease or natural disasters. Nearly every day, I hear incredible stories of how Sertomans go the extra mile to help those in their communities create a better life for them.

Why do you, volunteer???

Judy and I have always been involved with community service of some kind but not with any particular organization outside of our church. Until the day a friend of mine asked me to attend a Sertoma Club meeting. I was impressed with the club projects and activities and with the members I met, so I joined the club. My involvement with the Liberty Sertoma Club and its activities led us to talk about Sertoma with our friends and now many of our friends have joined, simply because asked.

It’s about connecting people who desire to give back to their communities with Sertoma. Sertoma clubs are built on groups of friends who work side by side on projects and sponsorships, all the while fostering new friendships. Think about how many friends you have now because someone asked you to join Sertoma! As we enjoy the new found friendships with our fellow Sertomans, our organization grows, our friendships prosper and our numbers increase.

Growth! That's right! By expanding of our circle of friends, our organization will grow. We get excited about attending meetings, working together on sponsorship activities and attending club socials, because of the expanding circle of friends.

Jimmy Carter once said: Throughout my life, I've seen the difference that volunteering efforts can make in people's lives. I know the personal value of service as a local volunteer.

Do you have all the friends you want? I don't!

The best way to have more friends is, first of all to be a friend. As you become more involved in your club, your circle of friends will grow along with your commitment to our organization. Remember, volunteerism is the voice of the people put into action. Actions will shape and mold the present into a future of which we can all be proud of, as Sertomans providing Service to Mankind.

What can all this lead to, as an active friend/member in a Sertoma Club?

Our friends inspire us to become leaders in the club. First by serving on a committee. Then the next thing you know you are a committee chairman and giving committee reports to your club. This demonstrates an ability to lead and your circle of friends is growing. You are asked to serve as a club officer which can move you up the leadership ladder, and as these steps progress, our circle of friends increases. As we begin to attend other Sertoma events, like PAC and Leadership Conference, District, Regional and National conventions our circle of friends will increase every time we attend a meeting.

Then, we begin to look forward to seeing your friends and making plans to attend future district, regional and national conventions. Suddenly one of your friends asks you to take an active part at the district or regional events. As our circle of friends continues to grow. Instead of just being a leader in our club you have become a leader on the next level. Sertoma needs leaders, men and women who come up through the organization, who have been successful leaders at the club level, and who share with their new friends, there compassion to serve those in need.

We need to also FOCUS on the future leadership from the club level to the national level. If you see or know someone successful, share it with others. The best way to secure the future leadership of our organization from the club level up, is to inspire and recognize them as a future leader. My involvement and commitment in my club got the attention of other leaders in Sertoma who called and encouraged me to run for District Governor.

Now, here I am, your President of Sertoma - all because a friend asked me to lunch - So who will you ask to lunch??

A fellow Sertoman once wrote a motivational message called “The Power of One”

Every day we see the difference one person can make. Just imagine the power of ONE MORE person. ONE MORE person can provide a scholarship, school supplies, a bike helmet, or a warm coat.

ONE MORE person can feed a hungry family or provide a
safe haven for victims of violence.
ONE MORE person can give our kids a safe place
to play, learn, and grow.
ONE MORE person can renovate a home for a
neighbor with a disability.
ONE MORE person can build another Camp Sertoma.
ONE MORE person can provide the joy of hearing,
the miracle of speech for all our citizens.
The only limitation we face is not dreaming big enough. Just imagine
the power of ONE MORE. So who is that ONE MORE friend/person
you can ask?


Remember: If it is to be, It is up to me, If not, who? If not now, when?

I don't know what your destiny in life will be, but one thing I do know: the ones among us who are truly happy are those who have sought and found how to Make Life Worthwhile by serving others though Service to Mankind. So remember by asking a friend to attend a Sertoma meeting is the first step on an incredible journey, in ones life. So as my time ends as our President, my prayer is that your journey will be as rewarding as mine.
 Yours in Service to Mankind,                                                               

Dennis Lawler

   

FROM SERTOMA HQ

Sertoma News Service 4/08/11

Come Party with US!
Celebrate our Century of Service! Meet us at the beautiful, ALL INCLUSIVE Cancun Palace, July 14-16, 2011. This once-in-a-lifetime celebration is the kick-off to Sertoma’s 100th Birthday.

Cancun Palace, a 4 star resort is offering a special Sertoma rate of $370 per night, per room (not per person) for double occupancy, or $345 per night for single occupancy! Rates include ALL food, drinks, taxes and gratuities. To make your room reservations, click on the Palace Resorts link on our Cancun page. Room Block Closes May 29th!!

Fellowship is a cornerstone of our organization, so invite friends, family and non-Sertomans. Join us as we celebrate what we have in common – the ability to Make Life Worthwhile through SERvice TO MAnkind! The registration fee for this event is only $30 per person and includes a free gift. Register today!

Bonus Offer: Make your room reservations by April 29th and receive a set of Sertoma luggage tags!  Just send your resort confirmation number to Curtis Gray to be eligible.

Special Election
Reminder the special election will be taking place May 19th-24th, 2011. Each member who wishes to participate must have a login to the Sertoma website prior to the election. You can view the candidate forum at anytime to hear each candidate answer a series of questions.

Ballots for the club vote were sent to the club secretary on March 30th. Watch your mail for this important information.

100 Years of Memories
Do you have a fond memory related to Sertoma? Do you know someone who has been greatly impacted by the work Sertoma does? Sertoma Headquarters is putting together a digital Sertoma memory book and would love to have your greatest/favorite memories included. Help us bring the story of Sertoma to life by sharing your thoughts, pictures and videos with us. Submit your story to nmagana@sertomahq.org

Merchandise
Due to the increase of shipping costs and fuel, we must unfortunately raise the cost of our shipping and handling charges. We have avoided raising our shipping costs since 2007, but we can no longer prolong the increase. Our new prices go into effect immediately. We thank you for your valued support and know you will understand the necessity for this price increase. Updated order form.

Spring cleaning in the Sertoma Store:
Ash Grey T-shirt with blue Sertoma International logo $4.00 Sizes (S, M, L)
Certificate of Appreciation with Sertoma International logo $1.00
Limited quantities available

Club Administration
Form 116: Quarterly Activities Report is due to Sertoma Headquarters April 10. 
Form 130: Club Officer Reporting Form is due April 10th. To ensure all contact information for the club is correct, please submit the form to Sertoma Headquarters, your Governor, and Director as soon as your officer elections are completed.

Has your club assigned a Club Liaison?   The next webinars have been set for April 19th and May 16th. Information on the topics will be sent to the club liaison soon. Make sure your club is up to date on all Sertoma matters.
 

Sertoma News Service 3/04/11

Special Election
By action of the Board the Annual Meeting of Sertoma, Inc. was moved from the first quarter of the year to the fourth quarter of the year beginning with the 2011-2012 fiscal year.  Without a special election held exterior of the Annual Meeting, the organization will have two vacant positions on the Board for a period of nine months during the 2011-2012 fiscal year.  Those positions are for a one-year term for the office of Jr. Vice-President, and the first year of a three-year term for a Director at-large position. There was an online candidate forum held on Monday, Feb. 28th to allow the members to hear from the candidates and to ask questions of them. If you were unable to attend the recording of this event is available on the Sertoma website.

2010-2011 Presidential Growth Incentives
"Sertoma FOCUS" - There is still time to earn the 2010-2011 Presidential Growth Incentive!  Each Sertoman recruiting a new member by June 30, 2011 will receive the "Sertoma FOCUS" growth pin.  Each club with a net gain of 3 or more by June 30, 2011 will receive a "Sertoma FOCUS" banner medallion.

Start Planning Your Sertoma Celebration!
Celebrate our Century of Service!  Meet us at the beautiful, ALL INCLUSIVE Cancun Palace, July 14 – 16, 2011.  This once-in-a-lifetime celebration is the kick-off to Sertoma’s 100th Birthday.

The registration fee for this once-in-a-century event is $30, and the Cancun Palace Resort is offering a special Sertoma rate of $370.00 per night, per room (not per person) double occupancy, or $345.00 per night, single occupancy!  Rates included all food, drinks, taxes, and gratuities.  As you can see, bring a friend and save! Need to find a Sertoma Friend – be sure to check the discussion board on Facebook!   

Fellowship is a cornerstone of our organization, so invite friends, family and non-Sertomans.  Join us as we celebrate what we have in common – the ability to Make Life Worthwhile through SERvice TO MAnkind!  Go to www.sertoma.org/cancun today to make your reservations. 

Form 130: Club Officer Reporting Form
As you hold your club elections for the 2011-2012 Sertoma year, please remember to complete and submit Form 130: Club Officer Reporting Form.  New this year – this form now contains space for information concerning your Club Liaison.  Please complete this form in its entirety and submit to Sertoma Headquarters by April 10th.

Sertoma News Service 12/17/10

Next Club Liaison Training
Your Club Liaison should have shared the information and handouts provided in the first two Webinar sessions.  If you have any questions concerning the information provided, please contact Sertoma Headquarters.

The third Club Liaison Webinar is scheduled for January 10, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. Central.  This session will contain import information concerning the Special Election this spring.

Special Election
The Special National Election in the Spring of 2011 will be conducted online.  Details will continue to be announced through the Sertoma News Service and your Club Liaison.  If you do not have internet access, please utilize the resources provided by public libraries, venues with free internet access or request fellow club members assist with this process.  Be sure you have a login for the Sertoma website to be able to participate.

National Candidates
If you are planning on running for either Junior Vice President or Director-at-large please notify Sertoma Headquarters by January 3rd.  This will insure that your information is included in all informational announcements and the Sertoman magazine.

Service to Mankind and Sertoman of the Year Awards
Due to the new Sertoma Conventions schedule, the entry deadline for 2011 has been revised for our progressive awards.  To have your club’s nominees considered for judging, your entries must be submitted to your District Governor by the July 1, 2011 submission deadline.  Serteen awards will follow a similar schedule. 

2010-2011 Presidential Growth Incentives
We are about to enter the 2nd half of our Sertoma year, but there is still time to achieve the Presidential Growth Awards!  Each Sertoman recruiting a new member by June 30, 2011 will receive the "Sertoma FOCUS" growth pin.  Each club with a net gain of 3 or more by June 30, 2011 will receive a "Sertoma FOCUS" banner medallion.
 
Strengthen Sertoma and serve your community through membership recruitment!

Sertoma Store
The Sertoma Store will not be shipping any merchandise December 29th – 31st to count inventory.  Orders can still be placed. If you need something shipped during December please place your order today.

Club Administration
End of 2nd quarter is 12/31 – remember all membership changes are due to Sertoma Headquarters by noon CST.

The club’s 2nd quarter quarterly activities report (Form 116) is due to Sertoma Headquarters postmarked 1/10/2011.

 

From Sertoma News Service 2/11/11

SAFEEars!
Is your club participating in Sertoma’s SAFEEars! program? This is a simple program to promote the club and Sertoma’s national focus in hearing health.  Download the updated order form with new items and prices.

     HEARING LOSS INFORMATION

 To hear about Hearing Loops, click on Dr David Myers website at: www.hearingloop.org

  For Hearing Aid Problem Solutions, contact Linda Van Dyke of Arapahoe Hearing Associates, Inc

     303-770-4327

 

SERTOMA INTERNATIONAL AWARDS

INDIVIDUAL AND CLUB AWARDS

Gem Award

Recognize new members for club involvement during the first year of Sertoma membership.

Mentor Award

Recognize members upon completion of assisting new member through the first year of membership and obtaining the GEM award. The new member must achieve GEM.

Service Award

Recognize members for continued service to the organization. Recognition levels are 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 hours of Sertoma service. Service hours must be in support of the Sertoma club’s approved sponsorships and/or fundraising activities. Form must be submitted by end of quarter following completion of recognized level of club service.

Leadership Award

Recognize Sertomans for exemplary club leadership during the fiscal year just completed.

Tenure Award

Recognize members for continued support of the organization. Recognition levels are 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 years of continuous Sertoma membership. Form must be submitted by end of quarter following achievement of a recognition level.

Mission Club Award

Encourage clubs to promote the Sertoma Mission to the community through communication of thoughts, ideas and concepts which accelerate human progress in health, education, freedom and democracy.

Member Services Club Award

Encourage clubs to provide value in Sertoma Membership.

Market Development Club Award

Encourage Clubs to promote and publicize Sertoma contributions to the community.

Circle of Excellence Club Award

Acknowledge clubs that achieve Sertoma Member Services, Sertoma Mission and Sertoma Market Development Awards.

Club Service to Mankind Award

Recognize an outstanding non-Sertoman for exceptional community service, where work is  performed on a volunteer basis. Must have award entry to District Governor by December 1st for District judging.

Club Sertoman of the Year Award

Recognize outstanding Sertoman for exceptional contributions to the club and in the spirit of service to mankind. Must have award to District Governor by December 1st for District  judging.

Sertoma Inc's Web Site:

    How to login to www.Sertoma.org   In the top right hand corner of the front page it will say “Login”. Click on Login. It will ask you for a Login name and password. For most individuals that will be Last name, first initial – and the system is case sensitive, so that would mean your login should look like the following:  SmithJ 

       Your password is your ID number that comes on the dues billing (and on your Sertoma magazine). If you have any question about these two pieces, please call Headquarters to get the information, 1-800-593-5646.

  Denver Regional Council of Governments' Senior Resource link:  www.drcog.networkofcare.org

TERRY'S HEALTH SEGMENT, June 2011

 


Honey is the only food on the planet that will not spoil or rot. It will do what some call turning to sugar. In reality honey is always honey. However, when left in a cool dark place for a long time it will do what I rather call "crystallizing" When this happens I loosen the lid, boil some water, and sit the honey container in the hot water, turn off the heat and let it liquefy. It is then as good as it ever was. Never boil honey or put it in a microwave. To do so will kill the enzymes in the honey.

Cinnamon and Honey

Bet the drug companies won't like this one getting around. Facts on Honey and Cinnamon: It is found that a mixture of honey and Cinnamon cures most diseases. Honey is produced in most of the countries of the world. Scientists of today also accept honey as a 'Ram Ban' (very effective) medicine for all kinds of diseases.. Honey can be used without any side effects for any kind of diseases.

Today's science says that even though honey is sweet, if taken in the right dosage as a medicine, it does not harm diabetic patients. Weekly World News, a magazine in Canada , in its issue dated 17 January,1995 has given the following list of diseases that can be cured by honey and cinnamon as researched by western scientists:

HEART DISEASES:

Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on bread, instead of jelly and jam, and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attack. Also, those who have already had an attack, if they do this process daily, they are kept miles away from the next attack.. Regular use of the above process relieves loss of breath and strengthens the heart beat. In America and Canada , various nursing homes have treated patients successfully and have found that as you age, the arteries and veins lose their flexibility and get clogged; honey and cinnamon revitalize the arteries and veins..

ARTHRITIS:

Arthritis patients may take daily, morning and night, one cup of hot water with two spoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon powder. If taken regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured. In a recent research conducted at the Copenhagen University, it was found that when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of one tablespoon Honey and half teaspoon Cinnamon powder before breakfast, they found that within a week, out of the 200 people so treated, practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain, and within a month, mostly all the patients who could not walk or move around because of arthritis started walking without pain.

BLADDER INFECTIONS:

Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the bladder..

CHOLESTEROL:

Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water, given to a cholesterol patient, was found to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10 percent within two hours As mentioned for arthritic patients, if taken three times a day, any chronic cholesterol is cured.. According to information received in the said Journal, pure honey taken with food daily relieves complaints of cholesterol.

COLDS:

Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for three days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold, and clear the sinuses..

UPSET STOMACH:

Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache and also clears stomach ulcers from the root.

GAS
:
According to the studies done in India and Japan , it is revealed that if Honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

IMMUNE SYSTEM:

Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacteria and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant use of Honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacterial and viral diseases.

INDIGESTION:

Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.

INFLUENZA
:
A scientist in Spain has proved that honey contains a natural ' Ingredient' which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu.

LONGEVITY
:
Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly, arrests the ravages of old age. Take four spoons of honey, one spoon of cinnamon powder, and three cups of water and boil to make like tea. Drink 1/4 cup, three to four times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life spans also increase and even a 100 year old, starts performing the chores of a 20-year-old..

PIMPLES
:
Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water.. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples from the root.

SKIN INFECTIONS:

Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections.

WEIGHT LOSS:

Daily in the morning one half hour before breakfast on an empty stomach, and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one cup of water. If taken regularly, it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. Also, drinking this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.

CANCER:

Recent research in Japan and Australia has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month three times a day.

FATIGUE
:
Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful rather than being detrimental to the strength of the body. Senior citizens, who take honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts, are more alert and flexible. Dr. Milton, who has done research, says that a half tablespoon of honey taken in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3:00 P.M. when the vitality of the body starts to decrease, increases the vitality of the body within a week.

BAD BREATH:

People of South America , first thing in the morning, gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water, so their breath stays fresh throughout the day..

HEARING LOSS:

Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder, taken in equal parts restores hearing. Remember when we were kids? We had toast with real butter and cinnamon sprinkled on it!

 

 

ARAPAHOE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE ALERT:

GYPSY SCAMS

 April, 2011

Spring and summer are very active times for Gypsy-related criminal activities.  Three major crimes committed by Gypsies are:

 

        • Home repair fraud

        • Ruse Entry Burglary

        • Burglary

 

Gypsies (individuals of Gypsy culture who have elected to live a criminal lifestyle) who commit these types of crimes are usually career criminals, and specialize in this kind of criminal activity.  Note that it is the “style,” and not the “con” that identifies the crime as Gypsies.  Traditionally, these types of Gypsy crimes are generally non-violent. 

 

The appearance of a Gypsy can be generally described as medium to dark complexioned Caucasian, who are often mistaken as Hispanic.  Dark hair and eyes are common characteristics.  The number of suspects involved can be between two and six.  At times, American Gypsy women and children will accompany a male suspect, or two women will work as a team.  A look-out is often used and usually sits in the vehicle and may sound the car horn if the police are spotted.  You should note that Gypsies are experts at false identification and will use a variation of family names and birth dates.

 

Gypsies who commit these crimes are career criminals specializing in home repair fraud and ruse entries. They primarily target the elderly, who are ideal suspects for their crimes.  Gypsies are experts with profiling senior citizen’s homes.  They will target a home by the style of drapes, poorly maintained lawns, single garbage cans, and four- door sedans.

 

Home repair fraud:

Gypsies cruise residential neighborhoods searching for elderly persons outside their homes.  Once located, they approach the elderly person and offer to do some sort of home repair work (driveway seal coating, tree trimming, roof repairs, etc.)  The price might be very low, or very high, depending on the mental state of the victim.  If the price quoted is low, generally when the work is completed, the money asked is much higher.  Any work done is usually substandard in nature.  If given the opportunity, the suspects may commit a residential burglary to the home by distracting (occupying) the home owner while another crew member searches the home.

 

Ruse Entry (burglary):

Again, after selecting a home by profiling it, a Gypsy will claim to be a utility worker, city employee, or a contractor.  They then will enter the home using the ruse of checking something (water pressure, fuses, pipes, etc.).  While one Gypsy keeps the victim occupied (running water, checking lights, or even directing the home owner to the rear of the house to view out the back window), one or more additional gypsies enter the home (undetected) and commit a burglary.

 

How to protect yourself:

·         Never allow someone to perform driveway sealing, or home repairs on the spot.  Ask for a business card to check on the reputation of the business, and end the conversation.  If possible, get a vehicle plate number and inform the police department of the activity.  Do not deliberate or debate work that needs to be done.  Gypsies will press a sense of urgency.

·         Never let anyone into your home - if someone claims they need assistance, tell them you will contact the police to assist them.  If they indicate they are with a utility company, call the utility company to verify the work.

·         If you are approached while you are out side, do not let anyone roam your property.  This usually gives them an opportunity to check for open doors while you are being distracted.

 

Note: This information about Gypsies only deals with those individual self-proclaimed Gypsies who have elected to live the criminal lifestyle.

 

There are other transient criminals, who do similar types of cons.  All of the above advisories should be followed, regardless.  CALL THE ARAPAHOE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE at 303-795-4711.

                                             

If you have further questions on Gypsy crimes please contact the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office and ask for a patrol car to come by and speak with you.

BEFORE YOU TURN OVER YOUR RECORDS, ASK!

 

February 7, 2011

 

A call to the District Attorney’s Consumer Protection Line highlighted an issue that anyone using a tax preparer should consider.  The caller had used the same tax preparer for several years, but that preparer died recently.  No one could tell them how they could obtain their old tax records or what was being done to protect them.  A visit to the former tax preparer’s office found the office locked and numerous records and files visible through the windows. 

 

Unsecured personal and business records are an identity thief’s gold mine.  Businesses that collect and keep customers’ personal identifying information have a responsibility to take every precaution to protect those records; but consumers also have a responsibility to safeguard their information.  If someone is going to prepare your tax return for you, you still have the responsibility and the right to ascertain what happens to those records once they leave your hands.  Here are some questions you should be asking anyone to whom you give your personal identifying information:

 

1. How do you store my information? 

2. Are files locked in a secure filing cabinet? 

3. If kept on a computer, what kind of protection do you have on that computer? (passwords, data encryption, firewall, malware and virus protection, etc.)?

4. Who has access to that information?

5. Have you done criminal background checks on anyone who has access to my information, and do you do regular updates on the background check?

6. Are my records ever stored on a laptop and do they ever leave this office? 

7. If your business closes, what plan has been created to insure that my records are either returned to me immediately or properly destroyed?

 

You may think of other questions, but the important thing is not to assume that your records are safe and will be well cared for.  Be sure that when you share your personal records, the recipient is as concerned about their welfare as you are.  If they aren’t or haven’t taken every precaution, find another provider.

                          

Need help?

Call the Consumer Protection Line

720-874-8547