I recently participated in the Third Annual Techathalon, a terrific event hosted by the Arizona Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs. What is a Techathalon? It is a day-long competition for young people who are experts in using computer technology. It provides participants with technology challenges, including graphic design, productivity software mastery, technical know-how, and creative thinking techniques.

The 2005 Techathalon attracted more than 250 youth from Arizona Boys & Girls Clubs between ages 6 and 18 to showcase their talents. The event provided an opportunity to meet and work with other kids that share their zeal for technology.

Competitors were divided into working teams from their clubs and assigned age-appropriate projects. Regardless of age, they were serious about their tasks, and at the same time they had a blast pulling their projects together.

In addition to the competition, participating sponsors set up a technology fair in the gymnasium, dubbed the Exploratorium, to allow participants to play science games and explore new technology gadgets and computers.

In a world where technology knowledge is vital, the Boys & Girls Clubs are providing computer labs, classes, and competitions to children who may not have a computer at home. They make it fun and are providing invaluable life skills.

The Arizona Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs held the first Techathalon in 2003, the first of its kind in the country. The competition has captured the attention of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, becoming a national model. Corporate sponsorship has grown to support an increasing number of participants.

An important part of computer training is making sure kids are safe on the Internet. The Attorney General’s Office, Arizona Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs, Netsmartz and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children have formed a dynamic partnership to promote Internet safety.

The Netsmartz Internet Safety Program teaches kids about how to enjoy the Internet safely. Netsmartz was developed by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and is available online free to kids, parents, schools and community groups.

The Internet offers extraordinary learning opportunities to today’s kids. I am committed to ensure that the Attorney General’s Office is a strong voice to protect children from Internet predators. For more information on Internet safety or age-appropriate training for kids on how to keep safe on the Web, please visit www.azag.gov.

Terry Goddard