Domestic Abuse Awareness Night This Thursday at Emmaus Fire Co.

The Beginning Over Foundation will feature a short film, silent witness exhibit, speakers, information and light refreshments on Thursday, March 6, at 7 PM at the Emmaus Fire House, 100 North Sixth Street, Emmaus, PA.

A fifteen minute film, “Something My Father Would Do,” will be followed by several speakers, including Assistant DA Jacqueline M. Taschner, the spearhead of Northampton County's domestic violence unit. A silent witness exhibit, life size silhouettes representing specific victims of domestic violence in Pennsylvania, will also be on display throughout the night.

“Residents in every community need to be educated on the issues of domestic abuse,” says Heidi Markow, founder of Beginning Over Foundation. She adds, “People need to feel the same way about domestic violence as they do with about convicted sexual predators. Families need to be protected from repeat offenders, and children need to be protected from parents if they are convicted domestic violence felons.”

Robin's Law to be Discussed Today

Robin Shaffer was shot and killed by her estranged husband two years ago in Quakertown. She never knew her husband had once before tried to kill his ex-wife.

Robin's sister, Heidi Markow, started the Beginning Over Foundation, a locally-formed grass roots group trying to cast a public spotlight on the tragedies caused by domestic violence. Robin's Law, introduced by State Rep. Karen Beyer, would track repeat domestic violence offenders with a statewide registry. According to a news release, all three Lehigh Valley state senators are sponsoring a companion bill in the senate.

“This legislation has the potential to save hundreds of lives in our region each year,” said BOF founder Markow. "I am so pleased that our local officials recognize the potential impact of this proposed legislation. I am overwhelmed by their support."

Today, at 2 PM, at the TC Salon Spa in Bethlehem, Markow will discuss means to raise funds for the victims and families of domestic abuse.

Brave Voices Against Domestic Violence in Bethlehem Parade

The Beginning Over Foundation is a locally-formed grass roots group trying to cast a public spotlight on the tragedies caused by domestic violence.

Founder Heidi Markow (second from left, blond, in beret) and friends unfurled their banners and walked in Bethlehem's Halloween Parade this weekend.

Heidi's sister, Robin, was shot and killed by her estranged husband two years ago in Quakertown. Robin never knew her husband had once before tried to kill his ex-wife.

Robin's Law, introduced by State Rep. Karen Beyer, will track repeat domestic violence offenders.