In the wake of devastation along the gulf coast from Hurricane Katrina, the Gorham legislative delegation and the Gorham Democratic Town Committee are inviting all residents to attend the third annual Rodney Quinn Picnic to help raise money for disaster relief efforts.
The picnic will be held Saturday, Sept. 24, at the home of Rep. David Farrington, 2 Cold Spring Lane, Gorham, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and all donations for disaster relief will be accepted and forwarded to national organizations working to help families in the gulf coast region.
“My wife Stacey and I want to open our home to help the struggling families on the gulf coast,” said Farrington, D-Gorham. “We’re encouraged by the town of Gorham’s eagerness to help, and hope that the contributions that we make through these fundraisers are significant to the relief efforts.”
The picnic is held in honor of Rodney Quinn, who served Gorham as a Town Council member, State Representative and Secretary of State. In addition to his political work, Quinn is an author and air force veteran. His most recent book, “Gorham During the Great Depression,” tells the story of growing up in Gorham during the 1930s. Money from the sale of the books has been used for charitable work.
“Rodney has always put public service and community first, and this year’s picnic is a chance to honor him while following his example,” said Rep. Chris Barstow, D-Gorham. “As we process the sadness associated with this disaster, I am optimistic that we can collectively turn these emotions into action for our neighbors in the south.”
Another community event to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina will be held the same day. The “Adopt a Community Bazaar” will be held at the Portland Faith Center, 8 Elkins Drive, Gorham, beginning at 8 a.m. The Gorham Business and Civic Exchange is sponsoring the event, and money raised will be used to help a small fishing town southwest of Mobile, Ala., called Bayou La Batre. It was featured as the fictional home of the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company in the movie Forrest Gump, according to the exchange.
Any residents who would like to contribute, volunteer or participate in either of these community activities can contact Rep. Barstow at home, 839-2095, or by e-mail, crbarstow@verizon.net.
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