July 30, 2010
By Karen McEnany-Phillips
October is the month when we typically devote a column to Domestic Violence Awareness, but in light of the recent murder of Sanford resident Jackie Miller, it seemed appropriate to raise the topic now. There are also a couple of events in August and in the months to come supporting Safehouse of Seminole, so what better time for the community to become more engaged in this critical issue.
In 2009, more than 2,200 cases of domestic violence were reported in Seminole county including eight murders, one case of manslaughter and 1,351 arrests. When you realize that a much larger percentage of domestic violence occurrences or allegations go unreported, the number is staggering. For those of you who may be new to Seminole County or new to reading this column, it may surprise you that a fairly affluent area such as Seminole County has this level of domestic violence.
The truth is that domestic violence is a devastating issue that cuts across economic, ethnic and educational lines.
On the surface, domestic violence appears to be someone else's problem, the private business of other couples who have made their choices and must find their own ways to deal with them. However, most adults are not trained to recognize or deal with the issue.
It cannot be loved, debated or logically explained away. It will not dissolve by a woman doing as she is told, being on her best behavior, or changing her appearance to some unrealistic perception of perfection. Many abusers and victims were childhood victims of domestic violence themselves. Children who witness it and live with it often grow up to imitate the same behaviors. Only with professional help can couples and families work their way through these complex issues of control, power, fear and lack of self-esteem.
Fortunately, over the last 15 years, many community partners, business sponsors and law enforcers have joined together to support SafeHouse of Seminole, which provides resources, programs, prevention and volunteer opportunities to women, men and families who are in crisis. From a 24-hour crisis hotline, referrals, advocacy and counseling to case management, safety planning, clothing and food, SafeHouse provides a comprehensive list of services and answers for those who need it most. According to their website, in addition to providing a safe haven, the focus is to enhance and develop creative and effective intervention and prevention initiatives to reduce violence in the community.
Friends help friends
Join the Friends Helping Friends 5K (3 mile) Walk/Race at Walk on Water Boutique at Lake Mary, Colonial Town Park, Saturday, Aug. 7. Visit www.walkonwaterfl.com. The adult race/walk starts at 7:30 a.m. and the children's race at 8:30 a.m. Registration is $25 now, $30 on race day and kids 17 and younger are $10. All proceeds go to SafeHouse of Seminole.
Night Out
Don't forget to bring the family out to Focal Point Landscaping Nursery at the corner of State Road 46 and County Road 426 Tuesday evening, Aug. 3 for a free event promoting National Night Out. Meet your neighbors and learn about crime prevention. There will be vendors, a bounce house, hayrides, water slides, face painting and more. Call 407-349-2200.
Youth in the spotlight
From Aug. 2-6 there will be a new Youth Improv Spotlight Showcase Workshop at the Rural Heritage Center. For just $100, kids ages 9 and older can sign up for classes from 9 a.m. to noon. On Aug. 6, there will be a performance at 7 p.m. Call Jessie Harrelson at 407-349-5112 or e-mail jessie_harrelson@bellsouth.net.
Don't forget to sign up for the Reviving the Constitution classes held from 7-9 p.m. Aug. 17, 24 and 31 at the Rural Heritage Center. It's $15 for all three classes. Call Paula Marcinak at 407-349-5346.
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