Southampton Town Takes on Bullying With 3 Community Forums

In recognizing October as National Bullying Prevention Month, the Town of Southampton is doing its part to bring attention to the issue by holding three community forums over the next several weeks.

Councilwoman Christine Scalera brought the idea to the floor in partnering with the town's Youth Bureau.

"I have heard from many parents whose children have been the subject of bullying, the harm can be life changing for the child or young adult, and a terrible source of anxiety and stress experienced by the entire family,” said Scalera, adding, "I commend the schools that already have addressed this and have programs in place to deal with bullying, but more can always be done.”

The following is a schedule of the seminars, which are open to all.

Blueprint for Addressing Bulling

This seminar will be held on Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. at Rogers Memorial Library in Southampton Village. The Guest speaker will be Cecile Wren, a retired school administrator/educational consultant.

Cyberbulling/The Inside Track Kids and Parents

This seminar will be held on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. at The Hampton Bays Community Center on Ponquogue Avenue. The guest speakers will be Det/ Rory Forrestal of the Suffolk County Police Department and the Act Two Theatre Troop.

A Survivor's Story

This seminar will be held on Oct. 30 at 7 p.m. at the Flanders Community Center on Flanders Road. Guest speakers will be Jaime and Ann Iaacs, daughter and parent.

Patch wants to know: Will you attend the seminars? What else do you think the town can do to help prevent bullying?