Michelangelo and Da Vinci painted the Sistine Chapel and Mona Lisa, respectively. Through Picasso's Guernica, individuals can see the inhumanity, brutality and hopelessness of war. Van Gogh's paintings have captivated and given millions serenity, comfort and inspiration. But above and beyond the mastery of all of the world's greatest artists, only a teacher can mold the heart of a child.

The victims from the World Trade Center, Flight 11, Flight 175, Flight 77, Flight 93 and the Pentagon will forever remind us of that fateful day. All across America-in our churches, synagogues, mosques, communities, homes and hearts-we must pray for the repose of their souls and rededicate ourselves to the virtues inspired by the tragedy: patriotism, compassion and charity.

Detective Marc DiNardo, who died on Tuesday, July 21, 2009 after being shot in a gun battle on July 16th, was honored at his funeral by family and thousands of his fellow officers, fire & EMT personnel, community leaders and concerned citizens. He leaves behind a wife and three children. Det. DiNardo, 37, had served the people of Jersey City for 10 years as a member of the Jersey City Police Department. explaining why.

Thursday, August 13, 2009 was a night of honor, pride, and celebration in Cedar Grove, New Jersey as the Essex County College Police Academy graduated 21 new Police Officers. These graduates will serve agencies including the Essex County Sheriff's Office, Glen Ridge Police Department, New Jersey Transit Police Department and West Orange Police Department.

Essex County leaders in attendance included A. Zachary Yamba, President of Essex County College, Vernell Patrick, Executive Vice President & Provost of Essex County College, Rocco L. Miscia Jr., Director of the Essex County College Police Academy and Wayne J. Morrison, Associate Director of the Essex County College Police Academy.

On Tuesday, August 4, 2009, communities throughout America gathered to celebrate National Night Out a police & community partnership initiative. At the request of the Livingston, New Jersey Police Department, I was invited to share remarks during the opening ceremony with Essex County Prosecutor Paula Dowd, Police Chief Craig Handschuch, Township Manager Michele Meade, Mayor Charles August and Police Officer Gary Mankowitz. Officer Mankowitz coordinated this first National Night Out for Livingston with true professionalism.

As the world responds to the death of Michael Jackson, we must remember to open hearts to the importance of insight, understanding, and action. Jackson was a creative genius that touched the world through his music, dance and fashion, as well as through his dedication to philanthropy. Commonly referred to as the King of Pop, he is considered one of the greatest entertainers who ever lived.

On Thursday, June 11, 2009 over 100 community leaders, educators, law enforcement, parents, students and social service representatives gathered at the Bergen Community College Anna Maria Ciccone Theatre in Paramus, New Jersey to take part in The Center for Suburban Criminal Justice Conference on "Conversations with Bergen County Youth."