F O R I M M E D I A T E R E L E A S E

“Carlie’s Crusade” And “REACT” Attract Nearly 100 People

CORNWALL, NY, March 15, 2004 – Nearly 100 people came to DJs Arena in Newburgh in support of “Carlie’s Crusade” And “REACT”. Most were young girls that came in support of Carlie’s Crusade and to learn REACT, (Release, Escape, Take Action, Use Counter Tactics). Several Hudson Valley Police Officers attended, amongst them was Cornwall Police Officer, Keith Lipsey the founder of “Carlie’s Crusade”.

Officer Keith Lipsey incorporates his years of training and experience along with his ability to allow children to feel confident and comfortable to learn personal safety and lessons in self-defense. All of the children that attended spent an hour watching an informative video, grab and release exercises, safety tips and listened to a story that Lipsey read in regards to Internet safety. Upon arrival children received a t-shirt and a safety tip sheet, which stated;

ü Call 911 whenever you believe you are in danger or fear something.

ü If you sense that butterflies in the stomach feeling, tell someone you trust and don’t stop telling someone until they believe you.

ü It’s OK to say NO to an adult.

ü Just because a grown up calls you by your first name doesn’t mean he knows you.

ü If you are afraid, it is okay to run away from a stranger.

ü Don’t go anywhere that no one knows where you are going.

ü Safe grown ups do NOT ask children for help.

ü SCREAM FIRE or I DON’T KNOW YOU when in fear.

ü Look’em right in the eye, Be loud, Hit hard and fast and don’t give up.

Also, a special noted section to parents stating to talk to and review these tips on a regular basis. “Talking to your children keeps a good relationship and adds to their self-esteem,” says Lipsey.

# # #

Officer Keith Lipsey teaches martial arts to children and adults of all ages in various locations in Cornwall and Marlboro. More information can be found at http://www.blackbeltusa-ny.com/.

Adrienne Mazzone, Publicist

21 Giovanna Street

New Windsor, NY 12553

(845) 534-7490

(845) 729-4755

See Photo on page 2

Photo Credit: John Jenerose