Grace Slezak: 'Protect Our People'

In the aftermath of the tragedy in Newtown, Conn., we all mourn this inexplicable horror and evil. 

In an ever-changing world, we must be pro-active in our ability to provide a safe environment in all our public spaces: Schools, shopping centers, theaters, restaurants, museums, hospitals, office buildings, hotels, stadiums, airports, etc. The technology already exists; it just needs some minor modifications to adapt to each situation. 

I would like to propose that every public doorway would have metal detectors built into the frame with a manned monitor. 

Cameras are everywhere to catch people stealing in stores. Let's put cameras to work for our safety and security, as well. 

An armed guard should be in each school and institution; practice drills, automatic robo-calls to each room in a building when there is a breach in the security, programmed entry access cards, check-in procedures for guests, etc. would all make a positive and meaningful difference in providing a safer environment for us all.  

We have all been touched by this tragedy; our hearts are broken; the grief is devastating; however, the solution is available. 

We need to demand that our federal government implement these measures immediately and federal funding needs to be provided for this to be achieved.  We need to protect our people and our homeland. 

The time has come and is long past due that the federal government provides funding for us instead of sending billions of dollars all around the world. 

We need to take care of the people in America first and this tragedy could be the impetus to do just that. This is not just a request to be put on the calendar for some future discussion; this is a compelling emergency which requires immediate action.  

Grace Merrell Slezak is the Broker/Owner/President of Destiny Realty Corp with an office in Glen Cove for 20 years. She has an B.A. and M.A. from Hofstra University.