SC Coalition Against Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault gives thanks

The South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault held its annual meeting and luncheon Wednesday, February 18, 2009, at Leaside. The board chairman, Labrena Aiken- Furtick welcomed guests, and an annual report was given by the executive director, Vicki Bourus. Sen. Phil Leventis was recognized for his relentless work to end domestic abuse and his legislation to take firearms from domestic abusers. Debbie Katzman was also recognized for her creative energy organizing the exhibit Living with the E nemy by Donna Ferrato at City Art, which Katzman did at no cost.

Several awards were presented. Carolyn S. Morris, assistant director, Children's Law Center of the USC School of Law, received the Citizen Advocate award; Steve Narewski, investigator for the City of Columbia Police Department, the Law Enforcement award; Dr. Shaunese Singleton, medical director, Children's Advocacy Cen- ter, Palmetto Citizens Against Sexual Assault, the Healthcare Professional award; The Honorable Darryl Burns, chief magistrate, Marion County, the Judge award; and Marcus Amaker, editor "Preview Section" Charleston Post and Courier, the Media Professional Award.

The keynote speaker was State Superintendent of Education Jim Rex who summarized his talk with "If we continue to do a little right, it becomes a wrong."