I never like to post one of these without a few comments, so here they are:

- Make sure that you check out convictions. We had a "sex offender" move in the neighborhood two years ago. Turns out he was 18 at the time and the girl was 14. It's entirely possible she said she was older - stuff happens - and I won't throw tomatoes at his house without knowing more. Now, a guy who's 60 and convicted of sex with a 14-yr-old I'd stay far, far away from.

- Don't use sites like this to deliberately harass these people. All that will do is cause the sites to be pulled down and rob us all of a useful tool.

- As always, the best defense for your children is a strong upbringing. Watch them carefully, teach them the 'bathing suit' rule[1] and to stand up for themselves. My daughter thinks its funny that the only time she's allowed to bite, kick and scream at the top of her lungs is if she's being dragged off. But it's a good rule to remember.

The beginning of summer is also a good time to review rules with your kids. It's a sad state of affairs, but it seems that Memorial Day is a good reminder to discuss pedophilia with your children.

That said, this website organizes registered sex offenders in a geographic manner, allowing you to check out an area before taking your kids there. Use it well.

http://www.familywatchdog.us/

1] The bathing suit rule: no one except Mom, Dad and your doctor are allowed to touch you anyplace that is covered by your bathing suit. And Mom, Dad and the doctor have to ask your permission with a good reason.