LAURA FOGERTY FROM DAMSELS IN DEFENSE, JANET KERNS, AND MARY LOU PIEROZZI THREATEN AN IMAGINARY ATTACKER WITH THEIR LIGHTED TASERS.
Personal safety was the theme for the Socialites’ February luncheon meeting. Mary Lou Pierozzi introduced Laura Fogerty, who came to talk to the members about ways to protect themselves in public. Representing Damsels in Defense, she explained this nonprofit organization was founded to support “women, nice men, and families.” Very much involved with combatting sex trafficking, the organization established Damsel House, a safe house to shelter rescued girls and young women. In the safe house the girls are cared for and, as a part of their rehabilitation, they are taught skills they can use to improve their lives. (There are two similar facilities in Sarasota and Port Charlotte.) Ms. Fogerty reminded the members of the enormity of the problem of human trafficking throughout the world, including in the United States.
The other mission of Damsels in Defense is to teach women simple ways to protect themselves from would-be predators. The first thing is to be aware of one’s surroundings and to trust one’s instincts to recognize when something is wrong. The next is to be prepared to act. Screaming or loudly demanding the stalker to back off is one way to ward off an attacker. Fogerty also recommended some defensive weapons women can carry and have ready to use when necessary. She had a collection of tasers, pepper spray, and loud alarm sounders, which she demonstrated. At the conclusion of her presentation, Fogerty answered questions from the members. She also held a drawing for a door prize, which Deb Polenska won.
Before the soup and salad buffet, President Janet Kerns welcomed the group and complimented Mary Lou Pierozzi for the table decorations. She also reminded members to sign up to be models in the April fashion show. She then called on Kathleen Colletti, who announced next month’s menu, and Cheryl Dawes, who introduced new members. Treasurer Bev Groft reported that this month’s member contribution to the All Souls church outreach program totaled $429.
The program for the March luncheon meeting is The ABCs of Chiropractics and Cannabis.
