By Carol Skewes, Managing Editor

135 balloons were released in Liberty at the Courthouse Pavilion Fri., April 9, representing the children served by Bridgehaven Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) in Liberty and Chambers Counties during 2009. Bridgehaven CAC has been in existence for approximately seven years. The balloon release is a solemn visual image of how important it is to prevent child abuse. April is Child Abuse Prevention Month and Bridgehaven reminds everyone to ‽break the cycle of abuse”.

Their specific advice includes the following tips:

Always take it seriously when children speak of being abused.

Report suspected child abuse immediately to the police or your state or local child protective services agency.

Recognize the signs of child abuse:

Physical - Unexplained bruises, welts, burns, fractures; unkempt or malnourished appearance; loss of appetite; disturbed sleep; sexually transmitted diseases; discoloration or scarring of genital area; repeated urinary tract infections.

Behavioral - Abrupt changes in behavior (clinging, aggressiveness, withdrawal, depression, anxiety); fear of a person or place; discomfort with physical contact; molestation of other children; suicidal tendencies.

Blue bracelets were handed out by Bridgehaven CAC, to be worn throughout the month of April, showing a commitment to protecting the health and safety of children in the community.

Dayton Police Chief Pete Douzat noted, "We want to thank Bridgehaven for the work you do in helping the law enforcement agencies. What you do is very important.”

Chili's also supported Bridgehaven CAC by giving 10 percent of sales for one day, on Tues, April 13, at 2125 SH 146 Bypass in Liberty, from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

The Baytown Chili's, at IH-10 and Garth Road, also donated 10 percent of their dinner sales the same day.

The helium for the balloon release ceremony was donated by Coastal Welding and Supply, in Liberty.

http://www.thevindicator.com/articles/2010/04/14/news/news68.txt