April 15, 1967

Ted Foster, Charlie Schieber, Martha Lagore, Francis Willison. Each were beloved, decent, hardworking, fun-loving family members. They are gone, but not forgotten.

Today marks the 50th anniversary of an event that has shaped my life and many others so profoundly.

While the Bingman’s bombing in 1967 seemed like a bizarre and unique disaster in Circleville, it really wasn’t so out of the ordinary. In just one year (2013) in Ohio, there were 38 domestic violence fatalities.

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that 20% of victims of domestic violence are by-standers, like Ted, Charlie, Martha and Francis. Innocent bystanders like the 8-year old student who died this week in San Bernardino, CA, at an elementary school. Same description: despondent and estranged husband.

If we can’t stop the violence, at least on this day of remembrance, we can remember the people who still live under the fear of violence, and celebrate and thank the women and men who provide shelter and support to victims of domestic violence. This is dangerous work. This is heartbreaking work. This is important work.

Thank you Haven House of Pickaway County.