11 Temmuz 2012 Çarşamba
10 Temmuz 2012 Salı
9 Temmuz 2012 Pazartesi
Is There Really More to be Done?
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One of the biggest concerns formission leaders is that we start to think the job is finished. We need tocelebrate when many come to Christ. The angels in heaven rejoice when just onesinner comes to repentance. But we must inform ourselves about the realities,and guard against the feeling that there is no more work to do:
The truth is, 4.4 billion people on our planet do not know Jesus.
The truth is, currently, at least 1.87 billion people live in areas with nogospel presence at all.
The truth is, in spite of major growth efforts, the percentage of people whocall themselves Christian around the world has stayed essentially the samesince the beginning of the 1900s (about 34%). We haven’t grown percentage-wisefor the past 100 years. [Barrett and Johnson, World Christian Trends, 40;Market, “Global Christianity.”]
The truth is that 6500 people groupsstill do not have a Christian witness at all.
The truth is …only 5% to 10% of the 100 million people in the Philippines areevangelical believers, leaving 90 million people with Christ.
The truth is…we are not there yet.[Page 64]
Adapted by Doug Nichols from Daddy Are We There Yet? (A global check-in onthe world of mission and kids), Kidzana Ministries, Mukilteo, 2009
One of the biggest concerns formission leaders is that we start to think the job is finished. We need tocelebrate when many come to Christ. The angels in heaven rejoice when just onesinner comes to repentance. But we must inform ourselves about the realities,and guard against the feeling that there is no more work to do:
The truth is, 4.4 billion people on our planet do not know Jesus.
The truth is, currently, at least 1.87 billion people live in areas with nogospel presence at all.
The truth is, in spite of major growth efforts, the percentage of people whocall themselves Christian around the world has stayed essentially the samesince the beginning of the 1900s (about 34%). We haven’t grown percentage-wisefor the past 100 years. [Barrett and Johnson, World Christian Trends, 40;Market, “Global Christianity.”]
The truth is that 6500 people groupsstill do not have a Christian witness at all.
The truth is …only 5% to 10% of the 100 million people in the Philippines areevangelical believers, leaving 90 million people with Christ.
The truth is…we are not there yet.[Page 64]
Adapted by Doug Nichols from Daddy Are We There Yet? (A global check-in onthe world of mission and kids), Kidzana Ministries, Mukilteo, 2009
Today is National Missing Children's Day
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From an email I received from Take 25:
Today is National Missing Children's DayToday marks the 28th annual National Missing Children's Day. First proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan and observed by each administration since, National Missing Children’s Day serves as a reminder to the nation about the importance of child safety and remembering children who are still missing.
May 25th marks the anniversary of the day when 6-year-old Etan Patz disappeared from a New York street corner on his way to school. Etan's story captivated the nation. His photo, taken by his father, a professional photographer, appeared in media across the nation and around the world. As a result, Etan became the poster-child for a movement and his photo came to symbolize the anguish and trauma of thousands of searching families.
For three decades, the search for Etan has continued. Just as that day when President Reagan proclaimed the first National Missing Children's Day, Etan is still missing. The widespread attention brought to his case and others eventually led to a nationwide commitment to help locate and recover missing children.
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) honors this commitment by reminding parents, guardians, and others to make child safety a national priority and encourages them to participate in the Take 25 campaign.
© 2010 National Center for Missing & Exploited Children • Take 25 Campaign • 699 Prince Street • Alexandria, Virginia 22314 • www.take25.org
Please take 25 minutes to talk to your children (no matter if their are 3 or 18) about safety. With a focus on prevention. The Take 25 website has lots of conversation starters you can download and have that talk today.
Today is National Missing Children's DayToday marks the 28th annual National Missing Children's Day. First proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan and observed by each administration since, National Missing Children’s Day serves as a reminder to the nation about the importance of child safety and remembering children who are still missing.
May 25th marks the anniversary of the day when 6-year-old Etan Patz disappeared from a New York street corner on his way to school. Etan's story captivated the nation. His photo, taken by his father, a professional photographer, appeared in media across the nation and around the world. As a result, Etan became the poster-child for a movement and his photo came to symbolize the anguish and trauma of thousands of searching families.
For three decades, the search for Etan has continued. Just as that day when President Reagan proclaimed the first National Missing Children's Day, Etan is still missing. The widespread attention brought to his case and others eventually led to a nationwide commitment to help locate and recover missing children.
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) honors this commitment by reminding parents, guardians, and others to make child safety a national priority and encourages them to participate in the Take 25 campaign.
© 2010 National Center for Missing & Exploited Children • Take 25 Campaign • 699 Prince Street • Alexandria, Virginia 22314 • www.take25.org
Please take 25 minutes to talk to your children (no matter if their are 3 or 18) about safety. With a focus on prevention. The Take 25 website has lots of conversation starters you can download and have that talk today.
I'm Back :)
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OK - SO I took a long break from my blog so lots has happened. We basically scaled back on everything to realign and re-evaluate our family's spending and budget needs. Part of that was our home internet service. So that is the reason for the long break, it's awfully hard to keep up a blog with short times online at the local library.
So I'm sure your wondering what's happened....so I'll be quick....
My Christian Life
My growth in my spiritual life has been taking off and I'm so excited to get to know our God and His son Jesus again. I was baptized on Mother's Day in May 2010 and understand now so much more the meaning of being "born again." I've been teaching Sunday School at church (Abundant Life Community Church) in our Kids Room (Grs 2-5). I am currently the Costume Mistress for our church's community theatre's, (82nd Street Theatre) for the upcoming production of "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe."
My Work Life
I've closed my travel agency. I've worked some short term jobs from June to December. Now we've decided, for the moment, I'm staying home. Although, I am a Barefoot Books Representative and an Avon Representative. Barefoot Books is a wonderful line of children's books that are beatifully illustrated and well written. Of course, Avon, which I love all their products and believe no matter who you are or what your budget is Avon can meet your needs.
Homeschooling
This year has been interesting. Both girls went to Public School at the beginning of the school year. What brought me home is my oldest's daughter, who went to middle school (6th gr) and HATED it. And sadly it wasn't the kids or the academics, it was the negative threats given by the teachers daily. So I brought her back home in October. My youngest (4th gr) loved school but part of our budget reduction included a new rental home that cost less, so when we moved in December she came home. Both are loving it and so am I. We are still following an eclectic style and I try not to look over too many different curriculum options. When I start looking I start questioning yet things are going fine the way they are so I'm just going to keep going the way we are.
So there it is, and I hope you'll enjoy my upcoming posts.
So I'm sure your wondering what's happened....so I'll be quick....
My Christian Life
My growth in my spiritual life has been taking off and I'm so excited to get to know our God and His son Jesus again. I was baptized on Mother's Day in May 2010 and understand now so much more the meaning of being "born again." I've been teaching Sunday School at church (Abundant Life Community Church) in our Kids Room (Grs 2-5). I am currently the Costume Mistress for our church's community theatre's, (82nd Street Theatre) for the upcoming production of "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe."
My Work Life
I've closed my travel agency. I've worked some short term jobs from June to December. Now we've decided, for the moment, I'm staying home. Although, I am a Barefoot Books Representative and an Avon Representative. Barefoot Books is a wonderful line of children's books that are beatifully illustrated and well written. Of course, Avon, which I love all their products and believe no matter who you are or what your budget is Avon can meet your needs.
Homeschooling
This year has been interesting. Both girls went to Public School at the beginning of the school year. What brought me home is my oldest's daughter, who went to middle school (6th gr) and HATED it. And sadly it wasn't the kids or the academics, it was the negative threats given by the teachers daily. So I brought her back home in October. My youngest (4th gr) loved school but part of our budget reduction included a new rental home that cost less, so when we moved in December she came home. Both are loving it and so am I. We are still following an eclectic style and I try not to look over too many different curriculum options. When I start looking I start questioning yet things are going fine the way they are so I'm just going to keep going the way we are.
So there it is, and I hope you'll enjoy my upcoming posts.
National Missing Children's Day - May 25, 2012
To contact us Click HERE
May 25 is National Missing Children's Day. It has been observed on this date since 1983 when President Reagan First proclaimed this day as National Missing Children's Day. This day is the anniversary of the day 6 year old Etan Patz disappeared on the way to school in 1979.On July 6th our granddaughter will be missing 5 years. Ashley Summers. Www.bringhomeashley.9f.comPlease talk with your child about safety no matter what age they are. Etan was 6, Ashley was 14....The age doesn't matter, just open that discussion with them this year on May 25th. Go to Www.take25.org for Safety tips and discussion guidelines to help yourself start this conversation with your child or children.Did you know?An estimated 800,000 children are reported missing every year.?..more than 2,000 every day.An estimated 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 10 boys are sexually victimized Before age 18. Only 1 in 3 will Tell anyone.Missing children include parental abductions, non-parental abductions, run always, and children that fall prey to human traffickers. Missing children can range from infants to teens, boys or girls, any race, color or creed. they come from the inner city, the rich suburbs, middle class and rural communities. Don't eve think it won't happen to you or in your community, because it will.Please take the time to educate yourself and child, www.take25.org
8 Temmuz 2012 Pazar
Jackie Chan Doing It Right in Myanmar
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Jackie Chan To Combat Myanmar Child Trafficking
07/03/12 09:34 AM ET
YANGON, Myanmar — Hong Kong action star Jackie Chan is going to Myanmar this week on a three-day mission to help combat child trafficking in the Southeast Asian nation.
UNICEF announced Tuesday that in his capacity as a good-will ambassador, Chan will visit the agency's projects for supporting trafficked children under special care for trauma and distress. He also will meet with officials of the Social Welfare Ministry and members of the Myanmar Police Anti-Trafficking Task Force in Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city.
The U.S. State Department's annual report on human trafficking says thousands of children in Myanmar are forced to serve in the national army and ethnic military groups. However, Myanmar signed an agreement with the United Nations last week to ban the recruitment of child soldiers and demobilize those already serving.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/03/jackie-chan-myanmar-child-trafficking_n_1645679.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
07/03/12 09:34 AM ET
YANGON, Myanmar — Hong Kong action star Jackie Chan is going to Myanmar this week on a three-day mission to help combat child trafficking in the Southeast Asian nation.
UNICEF announced Tuesday that in his capacity as a good-will ambassador, Chan will visit the agency's projects for supporting trafficked children under special care for trauma and distress. He also will meet with officials of the Social Welfare Ministry and members of the Myanmar Police Anti-Trafficking Task Force in Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city.
The U.S. State Department's annual report on human trafficking says thousands of children in Myanmar are forced to serve in the national army and ethnic military groups. However, Myanmar signed an agreement with the United Nations last week to ban the recruitment of child soldiers and demobilize those already serving.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/03/jackie-chan-myanmar-child-trafficking_n_1645679.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
Enjoy Chocolate Guilt Free this Fourth
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http://thecnnfreedomproject.blogs.cnn.com/2012/06/29/nestle-advances-child-labor-battle-plan/
June 29th, 2012
Nestlé advances child labor battle plan
An independent investigation into Nestlé's cocoa supply chain has found numerous child labor violations and kickstarted an ambitious plan to eventually eradicate forced labor and child labor in its production cycle.
The study was carried out by the Fair Labor Association with Nestlé's support.
"Our investigation of Nestlé's cocoa supply chain represents the first time a multinational chocolate producer has allowed its procurement system to be completely traced and assessed. For too long child labor in cocoa production has been everybody's problem and therefore nobody's responsibility," said FLA President Auret van Heerden.
It means Nestl̩ is the first chocolate-maker to comprehensively map its cocoa supply chain Рand can work on identifying problems areas, training and educating workers and taking action against child labor violations.
The FLA investigation found violations of Nestlé's own supplier code, including excessive hours and unpaid workers. It also found 72 percent of injuries were from workers using machetes.
Read the FLA-Nestle report
But child labor remained the primary concern for the FLA which said there were systemic and cultural challenges to overcome in Ivory Coast.
Jose Lopez, Nestlé vice president of operations, told CNN: "There is no way, that long term, a company like ours can accept a situation like this. So it's a matter of how fast, how well, and how many people have to participate in getting these sorts of problems behind us.
"We are determined to make real impact and hopefully also to be used as a lighthouse to show others that it's just a matter of getting started."
He added: "My sense is that what we want to do here is to prove that it can happen. We will work with the World Cocoa Foundation and be in schools, we will work with International Cocoa Initiative and gather the cooperatives and put people there ... to give training on the farmers. We will work with the government on the action plan, we will work with the certifiers.
"It is true that what is new is purely an expression of the will to assemble everybody, to break down these silos and to get the action moving, instead of each one of us trying to give his own interpretation and his own answer."
The FLA recommended Nestlé tell every person in its supply chain about the company's code of practice which bans child labor, and make sure people are trained and expected to uphold the code.
The FLA also said Nestlé has developed a strategy to improve practices by its Ivorian workers, including producing an illustrated guide to the supplier code by October and, in the longer term, train key suppliers to try to create a workforce dedicated to protecting children.
Van Heerden said: "By inviting FLA to completely map and document its cocoa supply chain, consumers will have the complete picture they need to hold Nestlé, the largest food company in the world, accountable for where its cocoa comes from ...
"Now that its supply chain has been mapped, Nestlé will be held accountable for the kind of sustainable and comprehensive changes that ensure a future of responsibly-sourced, code-compliant cocoa."
http://thecnnfreedomproject.blogs.cnn.com/2012/06/29/nestle-advances-child-labor-battle-plan/
June 29th, 2012
Nestlé advances child labor battle plan
An independent investigation into Nestlé's cocoa supply chain has found numerous child labor violations and kickstarted an ambitious plan to eventually eradicate forced labor and child labor in its production cycle.
The study was carried out by the Fair Labor Association with Nestlé's support.
"Our investigation of Nestlé's cocoa supply chain represents the first time a multinational chocolate producer has allowed its procurement system to be completely traced and assessed. For too long child labor in cocoa production has been everybody's problem and therefore nobody's responsibility," said FLA President Auret van Heerden.
It means Nestl̩ is the first chocolate-maker to comprehensively map its cocoa supply chain Рand can work on identifying problems areas, training and educating workers and taking action against child labor violations.
The FLA investigation found violations of Nestlé's own supplier code, including excessive hours and unpaid workers. It also found 72 percent of injuries were from workers using machetes.
Read the FLA-Nestle report
But child labor remained the primary concern for the FLA which said there were systemic and cultural challenges to overcome in Ivory Coast.
Jose Lopez, Nestlé vice president of operations, told CNN: "There is no way, that long term, a company like ours can accept a situation like this. So it's a matter of how fast, how well, and how many people have to participate in getting these sorts of problems behind us.
"We are determined to make real impact and hopefully also to be used as a lighthouse to show others that it's just a matter of getting started."
He added: "My sense is that what we want to do here is to prove that it can happen. We will work with the World Cocoa Foundation and be in schools, we will work with International Cocoa Initiative and gather the cooperatives and put people there ... to give training on the farmers. We will work with the government on the action plan, we will work with the certifiers.
"It is true that what is new is purely an expression of the will to assemble everybody, to break down these silos and to get the action moving, instead of each one of us trying to give his own interpretation and his own answer."
The FLA recommended Nestlé tell every person in its supply chain about the company's code of practice which bans child labor, and make sure people are trained and expected to uphold the code.
The FLA also said Nestlé has developed a strategy to improve practices by its Ivorian workers, including producing an illustrated guide to the supplier code by October and, in the longer term, train key suppliers to try to create a workforce dedicated to protecting children.
Van Heerden said: "By inviting FLA to completely map and document its cocoa supply chain, consumers will have the complete picture they need to hold Nestlé, the largest food company in the world, accountable for where its cocoa comes from ...
"Now that its supply chain has been mapped, Nestlé will be held accountable for the kind of sustainable and comprehensive changes that ensure a future of responsibly-sourced, code-compliant cocoa."
Child Marriage=Not Awesome
To contact us Click HERE
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/Trafficking-of-girls-closely-linked-to-child-marriages-in-Guntur-Activists/articleshow/14687046.cms
Trafficking of girls closely linked to child marriages in Guntur: Activists
Roli Srivastava, TNN | Jul 5, 2012, 12.46PM IST
HYDERABAD: Child marriages in Guntur continue to remain a major concern and activists working in the area now say that trafficking of girls from here is closely linked to child marriages. Those fighting against both practices that are rampant in the district point out that while under-10 marriages get a lot of attention and have thus been curbed to some extent, marriages in the 15-16 age group are alarmingly high and need to be checked.
"Strangely, nobody considers 15-year-olds getting married as child marriage. There are many families in Guntur that are pushing their daughters into marriage soon after they complete their Class X. Not only is this a vulnerable age, but many girls are deprived of an opportunity to pursue higher studies," said Sumitra Makkapati, founder of Ankuram, a social group that works with girls and young women. The group has set up a rural resource centre to spread awareness and train these girls in vocational courses in Guntur.
Makkapati went on to say that child marriages are linked to trafficking. "When we interact with women, we find that most victims of trafficking were those married early. They had faced domestic violence, oppression which is commonplace in these marriages. They had either fled from their marital homes or fell prey to traffickers easily," she says.
While the police and also the judiciary have become active on this issue, there is much left to be done at the grass-root level, Makkapati said.
Trafficking of girls closely linked to child marriages in Guntur: Activists
Roli Srivastava, TNN | Jul 5, 2012, 12.46PM IST
HYDERABAD: Child marriages in Guntur continue to remain a major concern and activists working in the area now say that trafficking of girls from here is closely linked to child marriages. Those fighting against both practices that are rampant in the district point out that while under-10 marriages get a lot of attention and have thus been curbed to some extent, marriages in the 15-16 age group are alarmingly high and need to be checked.
"Strangely, nobody considers 15-year-olds getting married as child marriage. There are many families in Guntur that are pushing their daughters into marriage soon after they complete their Class X. Not only is this a vulnerable age, but many girls are deprived of an opportunity to pursue higher studies," said Sumitra Makkapati, founder of Ankuram, a social group that works with girls and young women. The group has set up a rural resource centre to spread awareness and train these girls in vocational courses in Guntur.
Makkapati went on to say that child marriages are linked to trafficking. "When we interact with women, we find that most victims of trafficking were those married early. They had faced domestic violence, oppression which is commonplace in these marriages. They had either fled from their marital homes or fell prey to traffickers easily," she says.
While the police and also the judiciary have become active on this issue, there is much left to be done at the grass-root level, Makkapati said.
Liam's Latest
To contact us Click HERE
Liam's teacher passed this special piece of artwork to me
and asked if I saw what was wrong with it.
How can you miss those puppies!?!?
On the way home from school, I asked Liam to tell me about everything on his picture.
He informed me that these were in fact Ninja Warriors and that one is bad (on the bottom) and that one is good (on the top).
I also learned that they have super sweet ninja costumes complete with a flap in the front...
not a 3rd leg - not a super long ding dong.
Crisis averted - this time. :)
Liam's teacher passed this special piece of artwork to me
and asked if I saw what was wrong with it.
How can you miss those puppies!?!?
On the way home from school, I asked Liam to tell me about everything on his picture.
He informed me that these were in fact Ninja Warriors and that one is bad (on the bottom) and that one is good (on the top).
I also learned that they have super sweet ninja costumes complete with a flap in the front...
not a 3rd leg - not a super long ding dong.
Crisis averted - this time. :)
Who doesn't love a contest and giveaway!?!
To contact us Click HERE
A friend of mine is SUPER talented and has started her own design company. I am in fact feeling like my entire house needs a makeover by her. Her designs are ADORABLE and super reasonable. (I just ordered some personalized notecards that I'm super excited about.)
She decided to do a giveaway for the summer. Check out all of the fun items that you could win?!?! SO fun!
Simply click on the "a just for fun Summer giveaway" logo below and enter to win!!
She decided to do a giveaway for the summer. Check out all of the fun items that you could win?!?! SO fun!
Simply click on the "a just for fun Summer giveaway" logo below and enter to win!!
7 Temmuz 2012 Cumartesi
Vulnerable Kids in Florida
To contact us Click HERE
DCF EXAMINING GROUP HOMES AFTER SEX TRAFFICKING
By MARGIE MENZEL
THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA
THE CAPITAL, TALLAHASSEE, July 5, 2012.......Florida child welfare officials are on the defensive this week after revelations that children in taxpayer-financed group homes are falling prey to sex traffickers.
Miami-Dade police last week arrested four alleged pimps in an ongoing investigation of the exploitation of abused and neglected children in foster care, the Miami Herald reported last week. On Sunday, the Herald broke news of a similar set-up in Jacksonville.
In South Florida, authorities said the four men lured teenage girls into prostitution, plying them with money, gifts and personal attention. Starting in January 2011, members of the ring would arrange for the girls to have sex at a building in Homestead. The men collected the proceeds and paid the girls 40 percent. In the Jacksonville case, the teen was advertised in Backpage.com. In both cases, the alleged pimps also used teens as recruiters, police say.
Joe Follick, spokesman for the Florida Department of Children and Families, which oversees children in state custody, said the group homes are subcontractors that don't report directly to DCF.
"There is not a department employee specifically involved in these children's lives," Follick said. "We contract the care of foster children in the state to community groups who then often subcontract that work out too, whether it be group homes or case management organizations that work with these children."
Robin Hassler Thompson, an expert in human trafficking at Florida State University's Center for the Advancement of Human Rights, said it's disturbing that such crimes could happen right under the noses of so many caregivers.
"These are children who are being raped," she said. "So both the pimps and also the johns – the people who are buying sex with these children -- are raping them. It's that simple."
Florida is generally considered to be the third-ranked state in the U.S. for the prevalence of human trafficking. That's due to the many opportunities for trafficking to flourish – the large numbers of service jobs, the agricultural operations that attract migrant workers, the high transience rate, the presence of the sex industry in large cities, and the hotels and restaurants catering to the tourist trade.
Both sex trafficking and labor trafficking are mostly invisible to the untrained eye, said Hassler Thompson, which is all the more reason for caregivers to have proper training and awareness of such crimes.
Follick said as soon as DCF heard reports of trafficking in the group homes, the agency took action.
"Obviously we are ultimately responsible," he said. "But one of the things that I think we have learned from this lesson is the importance of communication in training all the way down, not just at the department but through the people that we pay to take care of these children."
Hassler Thompson credited DCF for having implemented training five or six years ago, under then-Secretary George Sheldon.
"They implemented training department-wide, including hotline workers and child protective investigators," she said. "DCF has been doing probably more than other state agencies where this issue of human trafficking comes to light…So, on the one hand, I think DCF has been doing a good job and being prepared. On the other hand, it's clear that a lot more has to be done."
Among those arrested, ironically, was a DCF child abuse investigator, 46-year-old Jean LaCroix, for having sex with a teen in foster care. LaCroix was arrested Saturday and charged with five counts of unlawful sexual activity with a minor.
"What is the level of accountability for the people who are getting state money and who are providing this kind of supervision?" asked Hassler Thompson. "There has to be some level of accountability because it is so prevalent, we can't ignore it."
Follick says DCF is reviewing all aspects of its group homes and recruiting more foster parents to reduce the need for them.
"The arrest last week highlighted an awful problem, but what would make it worse is if we didn't do anything. And we're not going to let that happen. We're going to examine this, we're not going to shy away from it, and we're going to do everything we can to help every child in group care."
Fran Allegra, the CEO of Our Kids, Inc., which oversees foster care and adoption services in Miami-Dade – including one of the group homes in question – said in a statement that her agency's intervention nearly a year ago led to the larger investigation and ultimate arrest.
"Sadly, as evidenced by daily headlines, this is a terrible, chronic and pervasive issue that affects children here and across the country, she said. "Predators will stop at nothing to seek out and find youth to prey on where ever they are…The problem of prostitution in and of itself is very difficult to solve." Allegra noted that the teens "are victims and we must do everything possible to protect their privacy."
DCF EXAMINING GROUP HOMES AFTER SEX TRAFFICKING
By MARGIE MENZEL
THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA
THE CAPITAL, TALLAHASSEE, July 5, 2012.......Florida child welfare officials are on the defensive this week after revelations that children in taxpayer-financed group homes are falling prey to sex traffickers.
Miami-Dade police last week arrested four alleged pimps in an ongoing investigation of the exploitation of abused and neglected children in foster care, the Miami Herald reported last week. On Sunday, the Herald broke news of a similar set-up in Jacksonville.
In South Florida, authorities said the four men lured teenage girls into prostitution, plying them with money, gifts and personal attention. Starting in January 2011, members of the ring would arrange for the girls to have sex at a building in Homestead. The men collected the proceeds and paid the girls 40 percent. In the Jacksonville case, the teen was advertised in Backpage.com. In both cases, the alleged pimps also used teens as recruiters, police say.
Joe Follick, spokesman for the Florida Department of Children and Families, which oversees children in state custody, said the group homes are subcontractors that don't report directly to DCF.
"There is not a department employee specifically involved in these children's lives," Follick said. "We contract the care of foster children in the state to community groups who then often subcontract that work out too, whether it be group homes or case management organizations that work with these children."
Robin Hassler Thompson, an expert in human trafficking at Florida State University's Center for the Advancement of Human Rights, said it's disturbing that such crimes could happen right under the noses of so many caregivers.
"These are children who are being raped," she said. "So both the pimps and also the johns – the people who are buying sex with these children -- are raping them. It's that simple."
Florida is generally considered to be the third-ranked state in the U.S. for the prevalence of human trafficking. That's due to the many opportunities for trafficking to flourish – the large numbers of service jobs, the agricultural operations that attract migrant workers, the high transience rate, the presence of the sex industry in large cities, and the hotels and restaurants catering to the tourist trade.
Both sex trafficking and labor trafficking are mostly invisible to the untrained eye, said Hassler Thompson, which is all the more reason for caregivers to have proper training and awareness of such crimes.
Follick said as soon as DCF heard reports of trafficking in the group homes, the agency took action.
"Obviously we are ultimately responsible," he said. "But one of the things that I think we have learned from this lesson is the importance of communication in training all the way down, not just at the department but through the people that we pay to take care of these children."
Hassler Thompson credited DCF for having implemented training five or six years ago, under then-Secretary George Sheldon.
"They implemented training department-wide, including hotline workers and child protective investigators," she said. "DCF has been doing probably more than other state agencies where this issue of human trafficking comes to light…So, on the one hand, I think DCF has been doing a good job and being prepared. On the other hand, it's clear that a lot more has to be done."
Among those arrested, ironically, was a DCF child abuse investigator, 46-year-old Jean LaCroix, for having sex with a teen in foster care. LaCroix was arrested Saturday and charged with five counts of unlawful sexual activity with a minor.
"What is the level of accountability for the people who are getting state money and who are providing this kind of supervision?" asked Hassler Thompson. "There has to be some level of accountability because it is so prevalent, we can't ignore it."
Follick says DCF is reviewing all aspects of its group homes and recruiting more foster parents to reduce the need for them.
"The arrest last week highlighted an awful problem, but what would make it worse is if we didn't do anything. And we're not going to let that happen. We're going to examine this, we're not going to shy away from it, and we're going to do everything we can to help every child in group care."
Fran Allegra, the CEO of Our Kids, Inc., which oversees foster care and adoption services in Miami-Dade – including one of the group homes in question – said in a statement that her agency's intervention nearly a year ago led to the larger investigation and ultimate arrest.
"Sadly, as evidenced by daily headlines, this is a terrible, chronic and pervasive issue that affects children here and across the country, she said. "Predators will stop at nothing to seek out and find youth to prey on where ever they are…The problem of prostitution in and of itself is very difficult to solve." Allegra noted that the teens "are victims and we must do everything possible to protect their privacy."
China: Police Crack Down on Child Trafficking Rings
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http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/07/world/asia/china-police-crack-down-on-child-trafficking-rings.html?emc=tnt&tntemail1=y
WORLD BRIEFING | ASIA
China: Police Crack Down on Child Trafficking Rings
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published: July 6, 2012
The police have arrested 802 people on suspicion of child trafficking and have rescued 181 children in a major operation spanning 15 provinces, the Ministry of Public Security said Friday. The recent operation broke up two trafficking rings and led to the arrests of the ringleaders, the ministry said in a statement posted on its Web site. China’s strict one-child policy has driven a thriving market in babies, especially boys because of a traditional preference for male heirs.
WORLD BRIEFING | ASIA
China: Police Crack Down on Child Trafficking Rings
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published: July 6, 2012
The police have arrested 802 people on suspicion of child trafficking and have rescued 181 children in a major operation spanning 15 provinces, the Ministry of Public Security said Friday. The recent operation broke up two trafficking rings and led to the arrests of the ringleaders, the ministry said in a statement posted on its Web site. China’s strict one-child policy has driven a thriving market in babies, especially boys because of a traditional preference for male heirs.
Blazer Game, Fishing and Salamander John
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Liam had a big week at my parent's house and topped it off with a Blazer Game with his Papa and a last minute fishing trip. Pure - boy - heaven.
Papa took Liam to get his face painted in Blazer style.
We are calling it his Rip City Chimney Sweep Look
Liam caught three HUGE fish this morning.
He brought them home for me to cook (yeah, right).
He also brought home his new "pet" named,
Salamander John.
Liam was more than happy to show us his new smile face. Nice...
Salamander John being kept company by four worms.
Salamander John really loved Liam.
He didn't run away when Liam put him down.
He would just stand there and let Liam pet him.
We left Salamander John behind in Oregon.
We are a house in mourning.
Papa took Liam to get his face painted in Blazer style.
We are calling it his Rip City Chimney Sweep Look
Liam caught three HUGE fish this morning.
He brought them home for me to cook (yeah, right).
He also brought home his new "pet" named,
Salamander John.
Liam was more than happy to show us his new smile face. Nice...
Salamander John being kept company by four worms.
Salamander John really loved Liam.
He didn't run away when Liam put him down.
He would just stand there and let Liam pet him.
We left Salamander John behind in Oregon.
We are a house in mourning.
Liam's Latest
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Liam's teacher passed this special piece of artwork to me
and asked if I saw what was wrong with it.
How can you miss those puppies!?!?
On the way home from school, I asked Liam to tell me about everything on his picture.
He informed me that these were in fact Ninja Warriors and that one is bad (on the bottom) and that one is good (on the top).
I also learned that they have super sweet ninja costumes complete with a flap in the front...
not a 3rd leg - not a super long ding dong.
Crisis averted - this time. :)
Liam's teacher passed this special piece of artwork to me
and asked if I saw what was wrong with it.
How can you miss those puppies!?!?
On the way home from school, I asked Liam to tell me about everything on his picture.
He informed me that these were in fact Ninja Warriors and that one is bad (on the bottom) and that one is good (on the top).
I also learned that they have super sweet ninja costumes complete with a flap in the front...
not a 3rd leg - not a super long ding dong.
Crisis averted - this time. :)
Who doesn't love a contest and giveaway!?!
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A friend of mine is SUPER talented and has started her own design company. I am in fact feeling like my entire house needs a makeover by her. Her designs are ADORABLE and super reasonable. (I just ordered some personalized notecards that I'm super excited about.)
She decided to do a giveaway for the summer. Check out all of the fun items that you could win?!?! SO fun!
Simply click on the "a just for fun Summer giveaway" logo below and enter to win!!
She decided to do a giveaway for the summer. Check out all of the fun items that you could win?!?! SO fun!
Simply click on the "a just for fun Summer giveaway" logo below and enter to win!!
5 Temmuz 2012 Perşembe
Ultimate Blog Party 2010
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Join us for the Ultimate Blog Party 2010 - This is going to be so much fun. This is the first year my blog is participating so I'm looking forward to this awesome party!
I am a Christian homeschooling mom of 2 girls and I blog about free resources for homeschooling and other great finds. Not only are these resources good for homeschoolers, parents may find them helpful to their children's schooling too. I also blog about some fun stuff we do here around Cleveland Ohio since there is so much great stuff here that people that live here may not even know about.
I'll blog about missing children and human trafficking since my step-granddaughter is a missing child believed to be a victim of human trafficking.
So join the party and check out some of my posts - looking forward to getting to know you!
Linda
Join us for the Ultimate Blog Party 2010 - This is going to be so much fun. This is the first year my blog is participating so I'm looking forward to this awesome party!
I am a Christian homeschooling mom of 2 girls and I blog about free resources for homeschooling and other great finds. Not only are these resources good for homeschoolers, parents may find them helpful to their children's schooling too. I also blog about some fun stuff we do here around Cleveland Ohio since there is so much great stuff here that people that live here may not even know about.
I'll blog about missing children and human trafficking since my step-granddaughter is a missing child believed to be a victim of human trafficking.
So join the party and check out some of my posts - looking forward to getting to know you!
Linda
Super Teacher Worksheets from FreelyEducate.com
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Welcome Super Blog Party readers! I usually don't blog on the weekends but I thought I'd share some free stuff with you.
I love Lori's Freebie site. I subscribe to her blog and will share some of her great resources here once in a while. This is her latest and its a good one. Super Teacher Worksheets. You'll find worksheets (on the elementary level) for Language Arts, Math, Handwriting, Reading Comprehension, Holidays and more. Thanks Lori for another great site!
Look for my Monday Blog - I'll have some pictures from the Cleveland Zoo.
I love Lori's Freebie site. I subscribe to her blog and will share some of her great resources here once in a while. This is her latest and its a good one. Super Teacher Worksheets. You'll find worksheets (on the elementary level) for Language Arts, Math, Handwriting, Reading Comprehension, Holidays and more. Thanks Lori for another great site!
Look for my Monday Blog - I'll have some pictures from the Cleveland Zoo.
Today is National Missing Children's Day
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From an email I received from Take 25:
Today is National Missing Children's DayToday marks the 28th annual National Missing Children's Day. First proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan and observed by each administration since, National Missing Children’s Day serves as a reminder to the nation about the importance of child safety and remembering children who are still missing.
May 25th marks the anniversary of the day when 6-year-old Etan Patz disappeared from a New York street corner on his way to school. Etan's story captivated the nation. His photo, taken by his father, a professional photographer, appeared in media across the nation and around the world. As a result, Etan became the poster-child for a movement and his photo came to symbolize the anguish and trauma of thousands of searching families.
For three decades, the search for Etan has continued. Just as that day when President Reagan proclaimed the first National Missing Children's Day, Etan is still missing. The widespread attention brought to his case and others eventually led to a nationwide commitment to help locate and recover missing children.
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) honors this commitment by reminding parents, guardians, and others to make child safety a national priority and encourages them to participate in the Take 25 campaign.
© 2010 National Center for Missing & Exploited Children • Take 25 Campaign • 699 Prince Street • Alexandria, Virginia 22314 • www.take25.org
Please take 25 minutes to talk to your children (no matter if their are 3 or 18) about safety. With a focus on prevention. The Take 25 website has lots of conversation starters you can download and have that talk today.
Today is National Missing Children's DayToday marks the 28th annual National Missing Children's Day. First proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan and observed by each administration since, National Missing Children’s Day serves as a reminder to the nation about the importance of child safety and remembering children who are still missing.
May 25th marks the anniversary of the day when 6-year-old Etan Patz disappeared from a New York street corner on his way to school. Etan's story captivated the nation. His photo, taken by his father, a professional photographer, appeared in media across the nation and around the world. As a result, Etan became the poster-child for a movement and his photo came to symbolize the anguish and trauma of thousands of searching families.
For three decades, the search for Etan has continued. Just as that day when President Reagan proclaimed the first National Missing Children's Day, Etan is still missing. The widespread attention brought to his case and others eventually led to a nationwide commitment to help locate and recover missing children.
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) honors this commitment by reminding parents, guardians, and others to make child safety a national priority and encourages them to participate in the Take 25 campaign.
© 2010 National Center for Missing & Exploited Children • Take 25 Campaign • 699 Prince Street • Alexandria, Virginia 22314 • www.take25.org
Please take 25 minutes to talk to your children (no matter if their are 3 or 18) about safety. With a focus on prevention. The Take 25 website has lots of conversation starters you can download and have that talk today.
I'm Back :)
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OK - SO I took a long break from my blog so lots has happened. We basically scaled back on everything to realign and re-evaluate our family's spending and budget needs. Part of that was our home internet service. So that is the reason for the long break, it's awfully hard to keep up a blog with short times online at the local library.
So I'm sure your wondering what's happened....so I'll be quick....
My Christian Life
My growth in my spiritual life has been taking off and I'm so excited to get to know our God and His son Jesus again. I was baptized on Mother's Day in May 2010 and understand now so much more the meaning of being "born again." I've been teaching Sunday School at church (Abundant Life Community Church) in our Kids Room (Grs 2-5). I am currently the Costume Mistress for our church's community theatre's, (82nd Street Theatre) for the upcoming production of "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe."
My Work Life
I've closed my travel agency. I've worked some short term jobs from June to December. Now we've decided, for the moment, I'm staying home. Although, I am a Barefoot Books Representative and an Avon Representative. Barefoot Books is a wonderful line of children's books that are beatifully illustrated and well written. Of course, Avon, which I love all their products and believe no matter who you are or what your budget is Avon can meet your needs.
Homeschooling
This year has been interesting. Both girls went to Public School at the beginning of the school year. What brought me home is my oldest's daughter, who went to middle school (6th gr) and HATED it. And sadly it wasn't the kids or the academics, it was the negative threats given by the teachers daily. So I brought her back home in October. My youngest (4th gr) loved school but part of our budget reduction included a new rental home that cost less, so when we moved in December she came home. Both are loving it and so am I. We are still following an eclectic style and I try not to look over too many different curriculum options. When I start looking I start questioning yet things are going fine the way they are so I'm just going to keep going the way we are.
So there it is, and I hope you'll enjoy my upcoming posts.
So I'm sure your wondering what's happened....so I'll be quick....
My Christian Life
My growth in my spiritual life has been taking off and I'm so excited to get to know our God and His son Jesus again. I was baptized on Mother's Day in May 2010 and understand now so much more the meaning of being "born again." I've been teaching Sunday School at church (Abundant Life Community Church) in our Kids Room (Grs 2-5). I am currently the Costume Mistress for our church's community theatre's, (82nd Street Theatre) for the upcoming production of "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe."
My Work Life
I've closed my travel agency. I've worked some short term jobs from June to December. Now we've decided, for the moment, I'm staying home. Although, I am a Barefoot Books Representative and an Avon Representative. Barefoot Books is a wonderful line of children's books that are beatifully illustrated and well written. Of course, Avon, which I love all their products and believe no matter who you are or what your budget is Avon can meet your needs.
Homeschooling
This year has been interesting. Both girls went to Public School at the beginning of the school year. What brought me home is my oldest's daughter, who went to middle school (6th gr) and HATED it. And sadly it wasn't the kids or the academics, it was the negative threats given by the teachers daily. So I brought her back home in October. My youngest (4th gr) loved school but part of our budget reduction included a new rental home that cost less, so when we moved in December she came home. Both are loving it and so am I. We are still following an eclectic style and I try not to look over too many different curriculum options. When I start looking I start questioning yet things are going fine the way they are so I'm just going to keep going the way we are.
So there it is, and I hope you'll enjoy my upcoming posts.
National Missing Children's Day - May 25, 2012
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May 25 is National Missing Children's Day. It has been observed on this date since 1983 when President Reagan First proclaimed this day as National Missing Children's Day. This day is the anniversary of the day 6 year old Etan Patz disappeared on the way to school in 1979.On July 6th our granddaughter will be missing 5 years. Ashley Summers. Www.bringhomeashley.9f.comPlease talk with your child about safety no matter what age they are. Etan was 6, Ashley was 14....The age doesn't matter, just open that discussion with them this year on May 25th. Go to Www.take25.org for Safety tips and discussion guidelines to help yourself start this conversation with your child or children.Did you know?An estimated 800,000 children are reported missing every year.?..more than 2,000 every day.An estimated 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 10 boys are sexually victimized Before age 18. Only 1 in 3 will Tell anyone.Missing children include parental abductions, non-parental abductions, run always, and children that fall prey to human traffickers. Missing children can range from infants to teens, boys or girls, any race, color or creed. they come from the inner city, the rich suburbs, middle class and rural communities. Don't eve think it won't happen to you or in your community, because it will.Please take the time to educate yourself and child, www.take25.org
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