Nola Sizemore

Staff Writer

The Harlan County Domestic Violence Council (HCDVC) and the Family Life Abuse Center will host their fifth annual Believing in Ourselves: A Celebration of Appalachian Women conference from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Aug. 18 at the Harlan Center.

“This is a fun-filled, educational self-esteem summit, which will feature a day of workshops of interest to women,” said HCDVC Victim Advocate Sheryl Caudel.

Beginning with registration and a welcome by the Harlan County Domestic Violence members, participants will then break off into individual workshops. Each workshop will consist of a 55 minute session.

“At 12:15 p.m. we will all come together as a group for a catered lunch provided at no cost to the participants,” said Caudel. “During lunch an award will be presented to the Outstanding Appalachian Woman of 2012. This award is for a woman who epitomizes the spirit of the Appalachian woman through service to her community and family.”

Caudel said to nominate someone for this award, you will need to log onto www.hcdvc.org and complete the nomination form. Nominations will be accepted until Aug. 10.

“Immediately following lunch, a ‘Beautiful You’ workshop will be held for all participants,” said Caudel. “The session includes a free makeover, with beauty consultants and a pedicure followed by glamour shot photography. All participants will receive a free 5x7 portrait.”

The event is open to all women and girls of Harlan County over 13 years of age. There is no cost to attend, but pre-registration is required. All pre-registered participants will receive a free tote bag filled with cosmetic goodies.

“You don’t want to miss this opportunity to network with other women for a day of celebrating who we are and who we are capable of becoming,” said Caudel. “You need to register now at www.hcdvc.org and complete the registration form or you may call 606-392-1129. You may also pick up registration forms at our official registration station at Ally Kats Hair Shack on Eula Gray Street in Harlan. Registrations will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on Aug. 15.

“Please don’t bring small children because there will be no child care available on site,” said Caudel.

Reach Nola Sizemore at 606-573-4510 or at nsizemore@heartlandpublications.com