WHA HIRES CRIME SPECIALIST

The Wilmington Housing Authority has hired a new crime prevention
specialist to replace Jim Vaugh, whose contract expired. The authority
decided to hire a full-time employee.

Joe Guarascio, who will be paid $32,850 a year, was a New York City
policeman for eight years. He also worked six years for a private company
and coordinated protection for clients including singer Paul McCartney and
actress Lauren Hutton.

After moving to Wilmington in 1997, Mr. Guarascio, who has a degree in
electronic technology, was with New Hanover Regional Medical Center's
Special Police.

Mr. Guarascio recently led a group of retired and former New York City
police officers to help in the cleanup after Sept. 11.

Money for the crime prevention specialist will come from a drug elimination
federal grant.