As the autumn leaves began to turn last year, the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation witnessed an extraordinary gathering of community, compassion, and competitive spirit during the Lewiston Strong Memorial Benefit Softball Tournament presented by Hammond Lumber Company.
This event, held in memory of those lost in the tragic Lewiston shooting on October 25, 2023, stood as a powerful testament to the resilience and unity of the Lewiston/Auburn community. Reflecting on this gathering, we are overwhelmed with gratitude and pride for the remarkable accomplishments achieved collectively. United in our purpose, we dedicated our efforts to supporting the families of the victims and those injured, reinforcing the strength and compassion of our community.
The tournament spanned across the Randall Road complex in Lewiston and Pettengill Park in Auburn, where 25 co-ed teams came together not just to play softball but to stand in solidarity, remember, and honor the lives affected by the tragedy. The day was filled with the excitement of games, local food trucks, raffles, silent auctions, and Lewiston Strong apparel.
Adding to the event's allure were appearances by celebrated figures, including Bill “Spaceman” Lee, a former Red Sox and current Savannah Bananas baseball player, and Patrick Dempsey, the Lewiston native recently named “Sexiest Man Alive,” who joined the First Responders' team. Their participation, along with the spirited presence of the Maine Celtics and Portland Sea Dogs mascots, brought additional excitement and drew crowds, further uniting our community in support of the cause.
The silent auction and raffle emerged as highlights of the day, featuring an impressive array of items that captured the generosity of public figures and local businesses alike. From coveted Boston Celtics tickets to autographed memorabilia by sports legends and luxury items like a new Samsung heat pump and boilers, the community’s generosity was on full display. These efforts culminated in an outpouring of support, enabling us to raise significant funds dedicated entirely to supporting the victims’ families and those injured.
As we navigated the complexities of managing such an expansive fundraiser, the Lewiston-Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce became an invaluable partner. Their expertise helped us ensure that every dollar raised was directed to those most in need, embodying the very essence of community solidarity and support.
The success of this event has not only provided immediate aid to those affected but has also solidified the foundation for what we now envision as an enduring annual tradition.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Hammond Team Volunteers and everyone who contributed their time, effort, and resources, making the tournament a resounding success. Within just two weeks, the generosity of our community culminated in raising a total of $207,853, which has been dispersed to support the families and individuals impacted by the shooting.
As we look forward to the future, inspired by the collective spirit and the difference we've made together, we eagerly anticipate the next annual tournament, continuing our mission of remembrance, support, and community resilience.
To everyone who contributed, whether through participation, donations, or simply by showing up to support, we extend our deepest thanks. Your involvement is the foundation of a stronger, more compassionate community.
Together, we are truly Lewiston Strong.
In loving memory of:
Ronald G. Morin
Peyton Brewer-Ross
Joshua A. Seal
Bryan M. MacFarlane
Joseph Lawrence Walker
Arthur Fred Strout
Maxx A. Hathaway
Stephen M. Vozzella
Thomas Ryan Conrad
Michael R. Deslauiers II
Jason Adam
Tricia C. Asselin
William A. Young
Aaron Young
Robert E. Violette
Lucille M. Violette
William Frank
Keith D. Macneir
The spirit and memory of this remarkable event have been captured through the lens of local photographer Dave Dostie, whose images serve as a poignant reminder of our community's unity and strength.
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