PATRIOTIC ART CONTEST submissions due by Sept. 22nd

If you're looking for a historical landmark destination with a unique blend of beauty and outdoor recreation then Lee, Maine might be the destination for you!

House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat in Lee, Maine has announced their plans, in collaboration with the Woody Williams Foundation, to erect the first Gold Star Families Memorial Monument in the state of Maine adding yet another MUST SEE location for visitors to the state of Maine!

Gold Star Families Memorial Monuments are a two-sided tribute made of black granite. One side bears the words: Gold Star Families Memorial Monument, a tribute to Gold Star Families and Relatives who sacrificed a Loved One for our Freedom.

The other side tells a story through the four granite panels: Homeland, Family, Patriot, and Sacrifice. At the center of this tribute, is a silhouette of a saluting service member which represents the Legacy of the Loved Ones who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our Freedom. Together, these features tell each community's unique story based on the Pillars of the Foundation.

The Monuments provide a place of permanence for Gold Star Families and their communities, to gather, honor, and remember their fallen Loved Ones, to whom we owe so much.

House in the Woods announced this week a PATRIOTIC ART CONTEST that will run through September 22, 2023. This contest is open to all ages and to anyone across the globe. Entries must be original and may be photos, drawings, or paintings with a theme of SACRIFICES MADE BY OUR GOLD STAR FAMILIES.

The 3rd pillar of the Gold Star Family Memorial is titled “SACRIFICE”, and the team at House in the Woods could use your help in determining what should be shown on that pillar. We all have a passion for our country, our freedom, and our heroes. Don’t be shy, we all have a message to share. You never know, your work might be selected to stand tall on the 1st Gold Star Families Memorial in Maine, for years to come.

Art Contest Rules and entry form can be found at: houseinthewoods.org/artcontest

Additionally, The Library of Congress is interested in potentially adding veteran submissions to its Veterans History Project, where they collect, preserve, and make accessible the firsthand recollections of U.S. military veterans who served in World War I through more recent conflicts and peacekeeping missions, so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand what they saw, did and felt during their service.

House in the Woods is a 501©3 non-profit hosting veterans, active-duty and gold star families on outdoor retreats for healing and camaraderie. It’s is the perfect location for such a memorial and will open its arms to all who would like to visit Maine.

If you’re interested in making a momentary donation towards the building of the WWF Gold Star Families Memorial, donations can be directed to House in the Woods with a memo indicating the Gold Star Families Memorial. The cost of the project is estimated to cost $50,000.00 and will welcome patriots to come to Lee, Maine for healing and camaraderie, from across the globe for years to come.

Groundbreaking is planned for the Spring of 2024 and ribbon cutting in the Fall of 2024.

Lee, Maine is a beautiful place to visit, with the Penobscot River flowing through town providing plenty of opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The river is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, bears, and moose, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

For those who prefer to stay on land, Lee has beautiful parks and trails to explore. The Lee Academy Trail is a popular hiking spot, with a 1.7-mile loop that takes you through a wooded area and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Lee also has several picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a great spot for families. History buffs will appreciate Lee's rich heritage, which dates back to the early days of settlement in Maine.

The town was founded in 1832 and named after General Charles Lee, a Revolutionary War hero.

In addition to its natural beauty and historic landmarks, Lee should be known for its friendly and welcoming community. The town hosts several annual events, celebrations, and parades which feature live music, food vendors, and a parade with local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

If you're planning a visit to Lee, there are several lodging options to choose from including several cozy bed and breakfasts as well as campgrounds for those who prefer to sleep out under the stars.

And let's not forget a must-stop in Lee is the Harris Family Takeout, surely a must-see and more importantly a must-taste with their delicious lobster rolls and are several restaurants in the area, serving up traditional Maine cuisine such as lobster rolls, hamburgers, and ice cream!

Please spread the word if you would and if you're feeling artsy.... submit for yourself!

TOGETHER WE HEAL

Angie Gade – Development Coordinator

House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat

info@houseinthewoods.org

angie.gade@houseinthewoods.org

207-738-8387