Old Orchard Beach Fire Chief Ricky Plummer and Police Chief Dana Kelley recognized and presented a Commendation for Heroic and Livesaving Actions to the following fire and police officers, including fire captain John Gilboy, firefighter Scott Dumais, firefighter Zach Apgar, firefighter Dane Gomberg, firefighter Bill Young, police Corporal Jami-Ellen Ladakakos, and police officer Scott Jarrett.
In addition to our fire and police departments there are so many citizens who responded in the days after the fire at 6 School St. in Old Orchard Beach. Now that the present needs of the residents of 6 School St. are being addressed, there is an enormous list of individuals and groups that need to be thanked.
Hoping not to miss anyone, please accept the town’s appreciation for financial and other contributions made both to The Salvation Army and the Red Cross for their involvement in helping our citizens. I have learned that many in our community have sent checks to both organizations. I will not name names, but you know who you are and that it is so appreciated. Enormous appreciation to the Hampton Inn for the sensitivity and caring nature of their staff and now to King Reality and especially to Lina Bryant.
To a host of businesses who have provided dinners and gift cards, including Jimmy the Greeks, Tom LaCasse and Donny Hill of Ocean Side Grille, Jeanne LaChance and Kelly Campbell of JJ’s Eatery, Saco Bay Rotary and its president, Chris Jacques; and 75 State Street ”“ Gina Martinez. There were several individuals who also provided food for which we are indebted. We are especially indebted to Mary-Beth Smith, who has coordinated this program, which has taken an enormous amount of her time and with great efficiency and planning. We would also like to thank Pat and James Brown for hours of work in this regard as well. For the assistance of Lt. Tim DeLuca, we are most grateful.
To Lucky Pup Rescue, Another Chance Animal Rescue, Animal Welfare Society for providing cages, Animal Medical Associations, HART, to Rachel and Benjamin Edward of Southgate Storage in Scarborough, and to others who have donated cat and dog food. A special thanks to Beverly Russell, Chair of the Community Animal Watch, who in spite of her being one of the fire victims, has managed to continue her dedicated work with all who lived at 6 School Street and to police officer and animal control officer Will Watson who has continued to show kindness and understanding.
To the host of volunteers who helped in the transportation and other assignments related to a change in location for these folks. Special thanks to the Community Watch Council members and its president, Helene Whittaker. Thanks also to Shuttlebus Director, Al Shutz, for donation of bus tickets.
I know there is a host of other individuals and our gratitude is extended to them for their sensitivity and caring.
Finally, great praise and admiration goes to Old Orchard Beach General Assistance Director, Laurie Lord, who, with great sensitivity, caring, and professional expertise has handled the multitude of details necessary.
And to the citizens of 6 School St., we love each of you and have been here for you and will continue to be here for you.
V. Louise Reid, Assistant Town Manager, Old Orchard Beach
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