Maine Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims

    AUGUSTA — September 25, 2013 will mark the seventh annual National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims. The Maine Chapter, National Organization of Parents of Murdered Children and Other Survivors of Homicide Victims, (POMC) will commemorate the Maine Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims on Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 1 to 3 p.m., in the Fireplace Lounge, Randall Center, University of Maine, Augusta. This observance will pay tribute to the hundreds of Maine related people who have been murdered.

    The program will include remarks by First Lady Ann LePage, Rev. Kate Braestrup, Chaplain, Maine Warden Service, Attorney General Janet Mills, Maine State Police Lt Brian McDonough and POMC Maine Chapter leader Arthur Jette of Cambridge. Songs of inspiration and hope and prayers of invocation and benediction will be offered. Survivors and others will again be privileged to have the “Empty Place at The Table” memorial on display, courtesy of New Hope for Women.
    According to Jette, “Every murder has devastating effects on our families and communities. It shatters much of what was joyous and valuable in the lives of surviving family and friends, and it’s important for the public to remember that anyone can become a victim.”
    The Maine Chapter, POMC has provided support services for surviving family members of murder victims, as well as murder prevention programs for more than twenty-three years, and is currently working to create a permanent memorial monument, dedicated to homicide victims, for placement in Augusta.
    The event is free, and open to the public. Refreshments will be served following the program. Those who have lost someone to homicide are encouraged to bring a framed, free-standing photo and any small personal item of their loved one, for our memorial display table. For more information, or directions call 277-3518 or 623-8642.