Tree raises awareness of domestic violence

JOHNSONVILLE—The Pee Dee Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Assault held a tree planting in Johnsonville’s city park last week to honor those suffering from the scars of domestic violence.

The event was held in conjunction with senior citizens attending the nutrition site in Johnsonville, who participated in the ceremony as part of their activities for the day. A six-foot live oak tree was planted and the city hopes it will eventually provide shade for those who use the park.

The program was opened by Mayor Pro-Tem Diane Marsh who thanked the coalition for their efforts to stem the tide of domestic and spousal abuse within the local area and for the tree, which will serve as a reminder to protect those who continue to suffer abuse.

LaBonnie Guerra, a rural Florence County victim advocate from the Coalition who explained the coalition’s purpose, dedicated the tree in memory of Johnsonville’s own Teresa Hanna who died as a result of domestic abuse.  Hanna was found shot to death in her driveway the morning of August 15, 2003 as she was preparing to leave for work. She was acting administrator for the city at the time of her death. A plaque will be placed on the ground in her honor.
Kem Poston, victim advocate of the Johnsonville Police Department, read a poem titled “Why Purple?”

Guerra handed out educational folders on the issue of Spousal and Domestic Abuse outlining how to recognize signs of domestic abuse and how the Pee Dee Coalition can help.

If you or someone you know are victems of domestic abuse, call the 24-hour crisis line, toll free, at 1-800-273-1820. For more information about the Pee Dee Coalition, visit their web site at http://www.peedeecoalition.org.