It's time to change the stereotypical image of human trafficking

When people think of human trafficking everyone seems to think of a cargo container full of Chinese immigrants hiding from US customs agents. This is a stereotype that we have to break. Yes people do get smuggled into the US from Asia. But the real problem is young girls who are recruited into the sex trade right here in our own communities.

Television shows about human trafficking seem to keep this stereotype alive. Hawaii Five-O, the new series on CBS Television, started the season with just such an episode. I would imagine smuggling Asians into Hawaii is probably more common than the mainland, but it keeps the incorrect image in the eye of the general public.

The more compelling issue on child sex trafficking can be found in this ABC News report on trafficking of minors in Portland.

http://abcnews.go.com/US/child-sex-trafficking-resources-victims/story?id=11700413

This report looks at young girls in the Portland sex trade, where many have been forced into lives of prostitution. They use the technique of romancing young girls to lure them into the sex trade

We have to change our thinking about these young people. They may be breaking the law and be participating in criminal behavior but in reality they are victims and we need to see them as such.

Video test of my new Android smartphone

I wanted a good test for my HTC EVO 4G smartphone and Lucy seemed like a good one. We have a standard poodle named Lucy and she is a fun dog. My wife, Lucy's mom, has done a terrific job training Lucy. To go outside she does not bark, she is training to ring a bell that hangs on the door. It's a very civilized approach to going potty. To get back into the house she is trained not to bark or jump on the door. So Lucy has taken to jumping up and down so we know she wants back in. video shot with my HTC Android smartphone

She does get airborne !!

Going for the Gold

We competed last weekend in the San Diego Senior Olympics, I won two bronze medals and my wife Shannon won a gold medal. We compete with precision air guns in events the mirror the regular Olympics, air rifle and air pistol. The real difference is we are much older than most regular Olympic competitors.

The San Diego Senior Olympics has many different events. For more information check out their website and you can get started at age 50.

www.sdseniorgames.org

It's always great to see a large turnout of seniors who are active and engaged in life. In past years at the opening ceremony, I have always been impressed with the group. People who want to compete in their favorite sports seem to stay in shape and are generally fit. I am very proud of the seniors who make the competitive effort to win.

I only wish I had done better this year, next year more practice!

Giving back to the community by giving the gift of life

I grew up in a family that always helped others. My mother always said "if you ever feel sorry for yourself or are feeling down, look outside yourself and help others". It is still good advice.

It has always been important for me to give back to the community. I have been doing volunteer work for a number of non-profits over the years. It is personally rewarding for me to help others. In addition to volunteer work I have enjoyed helping young people that are pursuing a career in my same field. I have been fortunate to help others with both their job skills and career paths.

However, we live very busy lives and taking time out to serve on a non-profit board or committee is not always possible.

Just what can you do that's convenient and flexible?

Well a super easy way to do community service is to give blood. I have been giving blood every couple of month at the San Diego Blood Bank for many years. It's fast, easy and can be scheduled when it's convenient. You are helping others and it brings a sense of satisfaction. It's also fun to check their website and see your donation grow. They also have great SWAG for giving blood like jackets, hats, bags and movie tickets.

Try it out and see how good it feels, that is once you get past the needle stick!

Dropbox software for syncing files

Are you a thumb drive user? Would you like a better solution?

In my work I am always on the go and for years I have used a thumb drive to keep files current between my desktop and my laptop.

Now I found a better way, I just started using Dropbox. It's a great way to keep files synced between computers or share files with others. It's a cloud application that syncs your files online and across your computers. It really simplifies file syncing and sharing. You can also use it to share photos online with friends.

I also have my files linked to my EVO Android phone and it's just great to have my docs and pictures in the palm of my hand.

Check out Dropbox: www.dropbox.com

3D at the NAB - WOW

This year I worked for Panasonic at the NAB convention in Las Vegas. 3D video solutions were in great abundance. Panasonic had their 152 inch plasma monitor that shows 3D. All I can say is WOW I am now a huge fan of 3D and Panasonic seems to be ahead of the pack with their new 3D camera system (AG-3DA1), software, monitors and switchers. I already own and operate Panasonic equipment and their new stuff is just great. Before the conventions I thought 3D was so-so, now I am a real believer in 3D!

Human Trafficking of Children

For the last several months I have been working on training development that helps law enforcement recognize the indicators of human trafficking. Now I am in the middle of a project that addresses the issues of trafficking of children.

It seems even more egregious that children are the victims of traffickers. They are the most vulnerable members of society and the most easily victimized. In addition to law enforcement officers other first responders can help. Fire fighters, paramedics, hospital staff and even code enforcement officers can make a difference. They need to look beneath the surface, dig a little deeper and if they ask the right questions they can help these innocent young victims.

Educating first responders is only the first step, the public needs to be more informed so they can recognize the indicators. These young victims live amongst us and are hiding in plain sight. They just need a little help to get out of this modern day form of slavery.

If you suspect someone is a victim of human trafficking please contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at: 1-888-3737-888