AVDA Hosts Its Second Annual Fashion Odyssey.

Lifestyle, News & Calendar Editors

BOCA RATON, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 30, 2003

South Florida Designers Debut the "Hottest" Fashions to Benefit

AVDA -- Craig Signer, Recently Featured on Access Hollywood,

Premieres His 2003 Collection

Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse, Inc. (AVDA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides emergency shelter and support services to victims of domestic violence and those at risk of abuse in Palm Beach County, hosts its 2nd Annual Fashion Odyssey on February 8, 2003. The event will take place at the Wayne Barton Center, 269 N.E. 14th Street, Boca Raton, Florida from 7:00 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.

South Florida sensation Craig Signer, whose designs were recently featured on Access Hollywood, will lend his name and designs at the show. Mr. Signer has also donated an evening gown for the event's silent auction. The gown, worn by actresses Erika Page and Heather Graham, is valued at $3,000.

Other top South Florida fashion designers debuting their "hottest" fashions for 2003 will be Fernando Garcia, Paola Zambony, Shirley L. Huskey, Honey B, Mauricio "Maui" Crane, Marit Tuisk and Alena Naron. Each designer has also donated an item for the silent auction, and all featured designs will be available for special order following the event.

AVDA provides essential programs and services to victims of domestic abuse and individuals at risk in Palm Beach County. Programs and services include a 24-hour emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and early intervention educational programs at elementary, middle and high schools throughout the county.

The funds raised through "Fashion Odyssey 2003" will benefit and directly support AVDA's mission, which includes an ambitious plan to build and provide a transitional housing facility for victims of domestic violence.

According to statistics from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, there were more than 124,000 domestic violence offenses in 2001 in the State of Florida and over 7,000 in Palm Beach County alone.

"Domestic violence is a significant issue that must be addressed on a local level," Pam O'Brien, Executive Director of AVDA, said. "Our 'Fashion Odyssey' event encourages Palm Beach County residents to enjoy a fun, world-class social event, while also providing the South Florida community with the opportunity to make a difference in the fight against domestic violence."

In addition to the high-energy runway show, this South Florida social event will feature wine and hors d'oeuvres; international gourmet chef stations; and a silent auction with items valued at more than $15,000, featuring such items as a helicopter ride, Kosta Boda vase, Tiffany-style gold-and-diamond ring, Palm Beach Opera tickets, Panthers and Dolphin tickets, and rounds of golf at top-ranking courses including Heron Bay and Weston Hills. Other auction items include a pet photography session from Fine Furtography, spa packages from Vintage Day Spa and more.

South Florida sponsors include Arc Video, Cafe Joshua, Exotic Cars, First Marketing Company, Florida Panthers, Gaines & Smith Financial Group, Gonzo Design, Greyson International, JKG Group, Maxwell's Chophouse, Miami Dolphins, NuTurf, Permanent Makeup of South Florida, Shelton Dealerships, Spalano's Salon & Spa, Sweet Affairs, The Music Store, Team Marketing and Vintage 'n Vogue.

With a theme this year of "Celebrating Freedom of Style," guests are encouraged to dress to impress in their favorite vintage styles.

Reservations are available for a donation of $150 per person. The silent auction and dinner will take place prior to the fashion show. The fashion show takes place from 9:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., and a designers "meet and greet" session will take place from 10 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., while dessert and coffee are served.

Funds raised by the event will benefit AVDA to support its programs and services. Those interested in attending should call 561/265-3797, ext. 102 for reservations and details. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

Don't miss out on the social event of the season - reserve your seat now before the event is sold out!