10th Anniversary Celebration Enormous Success!

The Southeast Missouri Network Against Sexual Violence held its 10 year anniversary celebration this past Saturday, September 22, at the Bavarian Halle in Fruitland, MO.  The banquet honored the men and women of law enforcement, child protection, juvenile justice prosecution who work every day to protect the children from abuse.  The guests included legislators, personnel from organizations who collaborate with SEMO-NASV, and individuals who support the agency.  Highlights of the evening included guest speaker Catherine Hanaway, US Attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri, local legislators (please see below) receiving advocacy awards for their dedicated service to protect children, and Senator Jason Crowell presenting Tammy Gwaltney, Director of SEMO-NASV, with a house resolution commemorating the organization for a decade of service.  Bobbi Ann Mason, radio personality, hosted the event and Restless Spirit provided the entertainment.  Approximately 150 people attended.

Spirit of Service awards were presented to area legislators at the celebration.  The awards were given to thank legislators for their tireless service and for making a difference in Missouri.  The support from these local legislators has been instrumental in helping the agency fulfill its mission of meeting the needs of child and adult victims of sexual violence.

In order of appearance…Tammy Gwaltney, Director SEMO-NASV, Sen. Jason Crowell (R), District 27; Rep. Steve Hodges (D) District 161; Marsha Haskell, Board member; Rep. Ellen Brandom (R), District 160; Rep. Gayle Kingery  (R), District 154; Rep. Billy Pat Wright (R), District 159.  Not pictured, Sen. Rob Mayer, (R), District  25; Rep. Scott Lipke, (R), District 157; Rep. Terry Swinger, (D), District 162 and Rep. Tom Todd, (D), District 163.