I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the Lewiston Maineiacs, its sponsors, fans, and especially Bill Schurman in delivering a product that the citizens of Lewiston-Auburn can be proud of.

This organization has attempted to right its wrongs and has taken full responsibility for its past mistakes.

These young men have become a fixture in our community. They have participated in military parades, serving food in shelters, restoring stones in cemeteries, given hockey clinics, etc.

Whether you are a hockey fan or not, they need the public's support to continue. Having worked as a full-time employee and a volunteer, I have seen the effort that this organization has put forward. I have seen first hand Schurman's attempt to make the Maineiacs a permanent fixture in the community. His love for the people of L-A is sincere.

During these hard economic times, I can understand that money is an issue, but there are specials that the organization has made available to fans.

No matter what happens in the future, the entire Lewiston Maineiacs organization, and especially the players, have lived up to their side of the bargain this year.

So let's give them a thank you by supporting the team in 2011. The citizens of L-A need them and they need us.

George O'Connell, Sabattus