Message from the Chair 2008

October 2008 finds us in the midst of our annual 31 Days of DVAM (Domestic Violence Awareness Month). This year for DVAM we decided to focus on the amazing power of women, their talents, and the ability to heal. In a year that has seen two domestic violence homicides in Glendale, it is critical that we continue to bring attention to this issue in our community.

In doing so, we remember those who have passed, we celebrate those who have survived, we offer resources and assistance to those who are currently dealing with domestic violence in their lives, and we continue to raise awareness and educate those in our community so that we can contribute to breaking the cycle of violence so that our daughters will not become victims and our sons will not become perpetrators.

To that end, this month, there is a great exhibit of Art as Healing featuring the works of women artists now on display through October 31, 2008. This small but powerful exhibit features the works of Diane Behrens, Olivia Rodriguez, and Linda Ternoir. I encourage everyone to stop in to view the exhibit and support these women artists. The exhibit is on display at Fast Frame of Glendale at 112 North Brand Boulevard. Don’t forget to sign the guestbook so we will know you came.

On Friday, October 17, 2008, we are thrilled to present an exclusive film screening of Desperately Seeking Paul McCartney. This documentary features one of our own commissioners, Ruth Sowby, who as a young teenage reporter in 1965, had the amazing opportunity to interview Paul McCartney. The film will be shown at 6:00 p.m. at Kreider Hall on the Glendale Community College campus. The film is free, though those who are able will have the opportunity to make a donation to off-set the event production costs. Light refreshments will be served.

On Friday, October 24, 2008, we will once again be presenting the Honoring Our Stories & Empowering Women Speakers Panel featuring domestic violence survivors and service providers. The panel will examine the dynamics of violence and the impact on our families, communities, and the legal system. Following the panel the annual Candlelight Vigil in partnership with the Glendale YWCA will be held as a moving tribute to the victims and survivors of violence in our communities. This event will be held in the Alex Theatre (Forecourt) on 216 North Brand Boulevard at 6:30 p.m. (Panel) and 7:30 p.m. (Vigil).

Finally, I would like to remind everyone, especially women, to get out and vote! Women suffered great bodily injury and risked death to earn the right to vote. With that comes a responsibility for all of us who have followed to honor these women by exercising this hard-fought right. Do your civic duty, effect change where you can, and vote! If you need resources to help you prepare, check out the League of Women Voters website at: http://smartvoter.org.

Karla Kerlin, Chair