ROCKPORT — The outside grill was sizzling with hot dogs and hamburgers while the corn steamed, and more food was added to the buffet tables at the sumptuous feast for Knox County first responders held  Sept. 8 at the Rockport Masonic Lodge. 

The “Unofficial Ladies Auxiliary Club of Rockport” were hosts of the appreciation lunch, the second one they have coordinated since last winter. This time, they increased the invitation list and reached out to all of the Knox County first responders including police, fire and EMS.  

The club members are Michelle Hannan, sister of Camden-Rockport Police Chief Randy Gagne, and Rockport and Camden residents Keirsten Delano, Maggie Timmerman, Catherin Erskine and Michelle Chamberlain.

Rockport Town Manager Rick Bates and Marci Annis-Casas also volunteered and managed the grill.

Approximately 50 first responders attended the event and many care packages with leftovers were delivered to other departments who were not able to attend, including the dispatchers who were on duty at the Knox Regional Communications Center.

After the hearty meal, there was a drawing for several raffle prizes, all donated from local merchants. Many of the first responders took home prizes, such as a Husky Mechanics tool kit, merchandise and restaurant gift certificates, and a Remington chain saw.

“The support from the community was outstanding. All of the club members approached numerous businesses for donations and we ended up with a table full of items for the drawings and an incredible variety of food,” said Hannan.

She added that they plan to make this an annual event.

At the end of the gathering, the first responders gave the “Unofficial Ladies Auxiliary Club of Rockport” a standing ovation.

Bravo! 

Donors who supported the first responders lunch with donations of food and raffle prizes:

Aldermere Farms, Bayview Concierge-Cathrine Erskine, Breyer’s Day Care, EBS, Flatbread, Gerry Hutcheson, Goose River Farm Stand, Graffam Brothers, Guinae Ridge, Hannaford, Keirstin Delano, Laugh Loud Smile Big, Linda Lent, Maggie Timmermann, Marci Annis-Casas, Megunticook Market, Michelle Chamberlain, Michelle Hannan, Miller Farm, Plants Unlimited, Rankins, Rick Bates, Rockport Diner, Rosalie Joy Bakery, Save your Thyme Catering, Shaws, Sweet Sensations, Tempest in a Tea Pot, Home Depot, Loyal Biscuit, The Maine Lobster Festival, The Samoset Resort, Trackside, Fresh off the Farm, and The Study Hall.

Reach Sarah Shepherd at news@penbaypilot.com