By Christie Cochran
Special to The Star-Herald
The Washburn Trail Runners hosted the 2007 Sno-Run Review and Beef Stew Dinner at the clubhouse on Station Road in Washburn on Saturday, May 5, at 6 p.m. to benefit AMHC’s Sexual Assault Services.
Many thanks go out to the cooking efforts of Mary Jane Sperrey, Maggie Corey and Dick and Audrey Hartford. Speaking on behalf of the AMHC Sexual Assault Services were Lorraine Chamberlain and sexual assault advocates: Kelley Gaites, Ginette Desjardens, Jeannie Fox, Lydia Christie and Nancy Pulman, with support from Pam Wyman,
This service is the only rape crisis center in Aroostook. Representative Joe Chamberlain noted that the Trail Runners have shown support through various fund-raising events for the past three years. Without the support, the AMHC Sexual Assault Services would not be able to provide all the varied services they currently offer. They are provided free to the public and these funds are needed. The team is more than appreciative of the support from the Trail Runners.
The AMHC’s Sexual Assault Services provides a wide array of services, including support for victims, significant others and survivors 24/7 through a crisis hotline and advocacy services on how to deal with sexual assault, sexual harassment, date rape and stalking whenever it occurs within the community. They offer school-based education at age-appropriate levels ranging from grades K-12 and college levels, community and professional awareness presentations and services for caregivers, and people in crisis ranging from terror, disbelief, suicidal tendencies, feeling of guilt and flashbacks. Their advocacy services include support for medical treatment, legal and mental health services. All of their programs and services are free and include referrals for further help or information.
During the evening a special recognition was given to Zane Grant, celebrating a birthday. He attended the supper even though beef stew was not his favorite meal, and he was rewarded by a birthday cake his wife brought, decorated with candles and a hunting scene. Those attending sang a rousing “Happy Birthday” to Zane.
The team presented a special framed Certificate of Appreciation to the Washburn Trail Runners, and it was accepted on behalf of the club by President Rod Sperrey.
There was a special DVD shown, showcasing highlights from the Andy Santerre Sno-Run held last February. The DVD was available for purchase at $12.95.
For those not present, copies of the DVD may be purchased by contacting Pam Wyman at 498-6432 or e mail her at pwyman@amhc.org. All the funds raised from both the supper and the sale of the DVDs went to support AMHC’s Sexual Assault Services in Aroostook County.
