Riverhead residents are invited to attend “Synergy 2,” a second conversation with members of the Riverhead Police Department on Monday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. at the Riverhead Senior Center at 60 Shade Tree Lane in Aquebogue. The event is hosted by the Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force.
The first “Synergy” was held virtually June 7. It was moderated by James Banks, who will return as moderator on Oct. 4. More than 35 people, including organizers and members of the Anti-Bias Task Force, participated in the virtual session. Riverhead Police Chief David Hegermiller represented the police department at the first meeting and spent about an hour answering questions put to him by community members — everything from how the pandemic affected the crime rate to when the department will begin implementing recommendations of the Riverhead police reform plan prepared by a town board task force.
The Synergy program is up and running in several other Suffolk towns, including Southold, and the Riverhead Anti-Bias Task Force is hoping the program takes root here.
The idea is for people to come together, to get to know each other as individuals, Synergy facilitator Banks said in an interview after the first meeting.
“I’m a prime believer in group therapy,” said Banks, a licensed certified social worker. “It helps people to get to know each other and air their concerns and feelings in peaceful, nonthreatening surroundings,” he said.
Members of the community are encouraged to attend the Synergy 2 session Monday evening to ask questions and share their concerns and feelings. Masks and social distancing will be enforced.
Seating is limited. Advance registration is required. Register by email.
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