Dear Editor:

On June 23, a second annual benefit for New Hope for Women was held at The Boardroom in Boothbay Harbor. The intimate event, held on a beautiful summer’s night, raised more than $4,500, which will be used to support victim services.

The event was made possible through the efforts of many wonderful members of the Boothbay community, and we would like to express our gratitude to all involved.

We deeply appreciate and thank Tom Myette, our host and owner of The Boardroom, who graciously donated his time, talent, and his beautiful venue for the second year in a row. Tom’s eloquent words about working together to find a safe environment for all were powerful and moving.

The Honorable Janet Mills, Attorney General of Maine, was our guest of honor. Janet recounted how in her 32 years as a prosecutor and attorney general, 350 women, men and children have died from domestic abuse in Maine. Clearly an advocate of protecting domestic violence victims from her early days, it was evident the level of passion and commitment Janet brings to her job.

A special thanks to our generous sponsors, who were instrumental in making this event possible: Jack Scully of Easterly Wines for donating a very fine selection of wines. Corporate Sponsors: First National Bank and Boothbay Harbor Country Club. Community Sponsors: LincolnHealth, Bath Savings Institution, and First Federal Savings & Loan. Individual Sponsors: J. Edward Knight Insurance, Joe Hanslip, Le Garage, Professional Yoga Therapy, Washburn & Doughty Associates, and four individuals who wish to remain anonymous.

Our final thanks to New Hope for Women volunteer, Lisa Peters, who spoke at the event; Teresa and Peter Fogg for their assistance at the event; Robert Mitchell for photographing the event; Boothbay Region Greenhouses for donating floral arrangements; Boothbay Hannaford for donating a gift card for supplies; Jamilah Gregory who helped organize the event; Ports of Italy who provided a delectable array of hors d’oeuvres; and a particular thank you to the wonderful individuals who attended.

Once again, we thank you all for your support and generosity. If it were not for caring supporters like you, we wouldn’t exist.

Nan Simpson, Deputy Director

Kristi Braun, Development Director

New Hope for Women