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Posted from Seattle, Washington (USA) at 7:01 AM local time

STOP EXPLOITATION NOW! Auction; Other News

Taking a break back home in the Northwest - but in the meantime, I should mention the ongoing online auction to benefit the work of STOP EXPLOITATION NOW! Accessible via stopexploitationnow.cmarket.com, the auction is being held to finance the launch of an Internet cafe in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, along with a full-time social worker for Action Pour Les Enfants. The Internet cafe will be run by physically disabled individuals; proceeds from cafe operations will benefit clients of SEN-partner Starfish. The Sihanoukville-based social worker will work with victims of sexual exploitation, bringing continuity to the process of case management and victim support. I've donated a number of framed prints from my travels in Asia, so if it's ever crossed your mind that you'd enjoy a print of your own, be sure to see the auction site for options. Your dollars will be put to good use in Southeast Asia. Bidding continues through July 1st.

Beyond that, I've begun developing a slideshow on India. No promises on getting it up before I leave for China at the end of the month, but it's on the way. I returned home in part to help marry off my little sister, Jen. She's hitched and happy - and we gained a new member of the family. I enjoyed Guatemala and Mexico, particularly because it was the first time I've traveled with any ability to communicate in the local language. Still, it's nice to be home for a bit. I managed to squeeze in a half-dozen presentations in area grade schools before classes ended for the summer - and was impressed with the students' questions and levels of interest. I'll include details later, but I'm hoping to do more of this when I'm home for a few months this fall. If you are (or know) teachers covering material involving foreign countries or cultures, shoot me an email. Perhaps I can visit your classroom to share photos and discuss what I've seen and learned on the road. I like to target 5th and 6th graders but am open to other age groups as well.

All for now. Will be on the ground in China by the end of the month.