Speak is a 2004 independent film based on the award- winning novel of the same name by Laurie Halse Anderson. Kristen Stewart, of Twilight, stars as Melinda Sordino, a high school freshman who becomes silent after being raped by an upperclassman. The film is told through Melinda's eyes and is a great discussion movie for parents and teens. It is recommended for teens aged 13+ and will be shown in Finlay Park

The month of April has been designated as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in South Carolina as well as nationally. The goal of SAAM is to raise public awareness about sexual violence (focusing on sexual assault and rape) and to educate communities and individuals about how to prevent sexual violence.

The theme of this year's Awareness Month is "Step Forward, Take a Stand Against Rape." We hope to encourage both males and females in this stand against ending sexual violence. Statistics have shown that one in four women will be sexually assaulted before they are age 18 and that one in six men will be sexually assaulted.

For additional information on SAAM events or agency services, check out www.stsm.org or contact our office at 790- 8208/stsm@stsm.org. For 24- hour crisis assistance call 803-771-RAPE (7273) or 1-800-491-RAPE.