'Dogs drive to end domestic violence

By Maggie Thach

Just about a year since her sister became a victim of domestic violence, softball Coach Margie Wright organized an event between her program and the Marjaree Mason Center, coordinating “Domestic Violence Awareness Night,” during Thursday’s game against Louisiana Tech.

Wright said it was important to spread the message at one of her games.

“ Softball is a women’s sport and most domestic violence occurs against women,” Wright said. “It was also something to honor my sister.”

According to www.ywcawings.org/ factsheet.html, a woman in the United States is battered every nine seconds. Six thousand women die each year as a result of domestic violence. Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15-44, more than automobile accidents, muggings and cancer deaths combined.

Fresno County has the sixth highest rate for domestic violence in the state, according to Community Medical Centers.

Pamela Kallsen, executive director of the Marjaree Mason Center, said Fresno County has the seventh highest domestic violence rate in the United States.

“ Domestic violence in Fresno is huge,” Kallsen said. “People don’t realize how bad it is.”

The specific goal and message of the Marjaree Mason center is for everyone to be aware that domestic violence exists within every socioeconomic level, Kallsen said.

“ We want to empower them,” she said, “The more we can have an impact.”

Wright is also striving to spread the message.

“ I’ve always donated to domestic violence causes,” Wright said. “It wasn’t until it happened to my sister that put it in a completely different perspective.”

Spectators and players alike deemed the event a success.

“ We raised $3,000 tonight,” Christina Clark, a shortstop for Wright’s softball team said. “I think it’s good that we came out strong in our first year. We had a good crowd to come out and support us tonight. I think a lot of people got the message.”

Donations ranged from toiletries to cash.

Lloyd Nelson, a fan of Fresno softball for 18 years, donated $20 to the cause.

“ This was a good cause, no question about it,” Nelson said. “Anything that happens here, I’m for it.”

Sandi Aguayo, a representative of Curves For Women, said she has seen the success of the donations first hand.

“ Without the participation from the fans, the Marjaree Mason Center wouldn’t get as far as they are today,” Aguayo said. “There’s more domestic violence out there than people think. This event will definitely alert people and awaken them to this issue.”

Wright said having the event on a college campus was especially important in spreading awareness about domestic violence.

“ It’s really important because I think there may be a lot of domestic violence happening on campus,” Wright said. “We want to get students involved and let them know what the signs and symptoms might be.”

Wright plans on continuing this event next year.

“ I think it’s something my sister would have wanted.”