North Missouri Children’s Advocacy Center Director Cathie Smith presented the program at Thursday’s meeting of the Trenton Rotary Club. Roger Bennett was the program chairman.
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Mrs. Smith, who has been director of the advocacy center for five years, discussed the Internet and what problems parents should be aware of with their children. She noted that while the Internet is a great tool for looking up information and communicating, there are also concerns that need to be addressed, in particular those involving communication with strangers. She told of several instances in which the Internet was used and resulted in children being molested. She gave several tips as to what parents should look for, stressing the need for communication with their child and knowledge of what they are doing while on the computer. She suggested having the computer in a “family” room where they can be observed using it and that if a child wants to set up a chat room page, the parent should help them and know what is contained on that page and with whom the child is communicating.
Mrs. Smith also said that the advocacy center is handling around 200-plus cases each year. She announced that she would be retiring as center director in December and would be replaced by Verna Kelsey, who has worked at the center for several years.
During the business meeting, Mack Woodard was drawn as the winner of the television fund-raiser conducted by the club. Proceeds from the give-away will go to Rotary International as the club’s donation for various Rotary programs.
President Chris Hoffman thanked members who helped with the Missouri Day parade and sold turkey legs on Saturday, noting the club ran out of turkey legs “twice” during the day. He also announced that Gina Triplett has been approved as a new member.
Next week’s program chairman is Jeff Crowley.