Many of our members have asked how we can help the Lewiston, ME community. I received this message from Rotary District 7790 Governor Tina Chapman:"As you know, this has been a very difficult week for those of us in Maine. On Wednesday evening, October 25th, we lost 18 of our fellow citizens. Several more were injured, a few of whom remain hospitalized. So many people were impacted - the families and victims of this terrible event, as well as the people of Lewiston, Auburn, Winthrop, Bowdoin, and several other towns in Maine that were directly impacted during the frightening hours and days after the shootings.
The ripple effect of personal stories of tragedy has been reaching every area of Maine, and we all are grieving together. We are also hearing many stories of heroism and hope. Our law enforcement, first responders, and medical personnel have demonstrated selflessness, compassion, and bravery. Community members far and wide are supporting one another in a multitude of ways, reinforcing that Maine is the Way Life Should Be.
Many of you have reached out to me to ask how you can help. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you would like to offer assistance, please visit Healing Together: Supporting Victims and Families of the Tragedy in Lewiston | Office of Governor Janet T. Mills (maine.gov). The site includes links to several very reputable organizations that are collecting funds for the families and victims. If you decide to give a gift, whether large or small, you have my deepest appreciation."
Our love and support go out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives:
Tricia Asselin, Peyton Brewer-Ross, Tommy Conrad, Michael Deslauriers II, Bryan MacFarlane, Arthur Strout, Joseph Walker, Joshua Seal, Maxx Hathaway, Ron Morin, Bill Young, Aaron Young, Stephen Vozzella, Bob Violette, Billy Bracket, Jason Adam Walker, Keith D. Macneir and Lucille M. Violette.
Let's keep them all in our thoughts and in our hearts.
DG Elliott