Nicholas Weston-Swan of ARC/GNY instructs Staten Island Board Member Gail Castellano, Borough President Edward Burke, and Mary Senk of the Borough President’s office on the basics of CPR.

Staten Island Deputy Borough President Edward Burke presented the American Red Cross Staten Island with a proclamation declaring March "Red Cross Month" at Staten Island City Hall on Thursday, March 6. The proclamation was received by ARC/GNY Staten Island Area Office Director Suzanne Lutz and ARC/GNY Chief Administrative Officer Richard Kane.

Mr. Kane delivered a short speech reminding participants that the American Red Cross aides New York City daily by responding to fires, building collapses and other emergencies. “Most times people think of the Red Cross responding to disasters such as Hurricane Katrina or a tsunami, but in fact we respond to emergencies nine times a day, often in Staten Island,” Mr. Kane said.

He also noted the importance of being prepared in advance for unexpected disasters such as the explosive device that damaged the Times Square military recruiting station early that morning. “It's a reminder that we never know when or where disaster could strike and we need trained volunteers to get there and be helpful,” Mr. Kane said.

Following the proclamation ceremony, Mr. Burke, Borough President's Office employee Mary Senk, and ARC/GNY Staten Island Board Member Gail Castellano learned CPR basics from ARC/GNY Coordinator of Volunteer Instructors Nicholas Weston-Swan. Also in attendance were approximately 20 people including Borough Hall staff, members of the ARC/GNY Staten Island Board of Advisors, and community leaders.

Deputy Borough President Burke is working with the Chapter to ensure that all Borough Hall employees are trained in CPR and First Aid.