When our scheduled presentation for last week didn't work out, Kurt Baltrusch contacted Jesse Slaughter, who was scheduled for a presentation later this fall, and he was ready to go.  The subject: Human Trafficking.

 

You'd like to think it doesn't happen here - or anywhere - but it does. The human trafficking market - which Jesse says is more accurately called "sex enslavement" - involves at least 20 million unfortunate souls worldwide, and Jesse himself has worked on 60 cases in Montana, the majority of which have been in Great Falls or the surrounding area.

 

Jesse focused on indicators that are telltale signs of the sex slave: She lies about her identity or age and has no personal identification. She is vague about her personal history. She claims to be "just visiting," has no specific traffic plans and few possessions. She is a minor with an age-inappropriate male. She has no credit card, goes to a motel that doesn't require credits cards, and pays in cash. She has lots of cash.

 

Jesse gives this presentation often, especially to hoteliers and their staffs, who are the most likely to encounter young women with these indicators. He told us that while the brothels of Montana history are in the past, cash-for-sex is very much alive, driven by the availability of pornography online, especially child pornography.

 

A grim subject, but an important one to be aware of.

1. Dictionary Project. We're gearing up for dictionary distribution. A sign-up sheet went around the club at last week's meeting and lots of schools were reserved, but we have many left! Reserve the school of your choice with Mary Moe now (868-9427 or mary.sheehy.moe@gmail.com or just reply to this bulletin). When the dictionaries arrive, we'll give you more information.
 
2. Harvest Howl. The planning committee is meeting on Thursdays at 5:30 at the country club. Mike Wier is in need of a few new committee members, so if you'd like to help, contact Mike (781-7343) or just reply to this bulletin and we'll get the information to him.
 
3. Highway Clean-up. Carey Gray has agreed to take on this one-night-and-you're-done project of ours. You join our crew on the highway by KRTV, clean up the borrow pits, and then wash the dust off your throat with a cool beverage afterwards. The specific date hasn't been set, so stay tuned for a date in late September. Contact Carey at 590-1603 or catgraphics@3rivers.net if you'd like to help. Or just reply to this bulletin, and we'll get the information to her.