RICHMOND, Virginia –
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which began in 1981 as a Day of Unity to connect battered women’s advocates across the country. However, over time, what started out as one day has morphed into a month-long celebration.
In recognition of this time, Defense Logistics Agency Aviation hosted an old-fashion cake-off in the Center Restaurant on Defense Supply Center Richmond, Virginia, Sept. 30, 2019.
According to breakthecycle.org, domestic violence is an issue that impacts millions of people on a daily basis and can present itself in many different ways. It’s not always just punches and black eyes – it’s also yelling, humiliation, stalking, manipulation, coercion, threats and isolation. It’s stealing a paycheck, keeping tabs online, non-stop texting as well as constant use of the silent treatment.
“I chose to do a “cake-off” because I thought it would be a great way to shed some light on this horrible issue and have a little fun while doing it,” said Melissa Futreal, family programs manager, Morale Welfare and Recreation Office, DLA Installation Management Richmond.
Six cakes were donated in support of the event and in standard cake-wars style, judges tasted the cakes and made their selection for the three categories: Most Representative of DLA, Most Representative of Domestic Violence Prevention and Judges’ Favorite. Attendees were also able to get in on the action by submitting a vote for the People’s Choice category.
“I love this event because it’s lighthearted and allows us the opportunity to come together and fellowship in a safe, non-threatening environment and I think that’s important,” said Felicia Barwell, weapon systems program manager, Nuclear Enterprise Support Office, DLA Aviation Customer Operations Directorate. “In addition to the fact that everyone loves cake!”
The votes are in and the winners are as follows: Most Representative of DLA - Kim Prevette, Most Representative of Domestic Violence Prevention - Heather Winton, Judges Favorite - Clara Griffin and People’s Choice - Patricia Mumford.