First annual Witches ride is ‘grassroots initiative’

‘Local women giving back to local women’ is how Heather Shelby describes the first annual Dogwood Lakes Golf Course Witches Ride.

The event commences at 8 a.m. on Oct. 21 and will end at 1 p.m., with all the proceeds raised going to a local women’s shelter.  Along with the guided bicycle ride around the lake, there will also be brunch with mimosas, swag bags, vendors, costume and bike decorating contests, as well as speakers Dr. Annette Porter and Carol Kent.  Porter will speak about domestic violence from the standpoint of an emergency room physician, while Kent will speak of her experiences-both personal and professional. ‘I wanted this event to be an excuse for women to dress up, have fun and raise money for a worthy cause,’ said Shelby. ‘The local funds raised at this event will stay local. I believe that is important for our community to see. This had weighed on my heart and I felt the need to give back and help women who need help getting out of a domestic violence situation.’ Hearts of Gold Ministry is supported by Amazing Grace Thrift Store, in Bonifay, whose owner Pam Boone is opening a transitional shelter/housing for women and children to start a safe, new life. Hearts of Gold is a non-profit, volunteer driven, Christian-based ministry with a goal of providing a faith-based, shelter/transitional home for women and children to get on their feet and out from under abuse. ‘We want to make this an annual event to continue to raise money for this cause,’ said Shelby. ‘This is truly a grassroots initiative to raise money to help those in need in our very own community.’ Attendees will learn about domestic violence prevention and how their donations will impact a local cause.  Vendors at the event will have an array of goods from crystals, teas, plants, candles and much more. The price of registration is $50 and due by Oct. 15 to secure a spot. Donations can be paid to HeatherShelbycash/PayPal. Dogwood Lakes Golf Course is located at 1934 Country Club Drive in Bonifay.