OAKFIELD, Maine — Organizers claimed a victory following the 3rd annual memorial ride for Mike Kitchen and Heidi Pratt held Saturday, Sept. 9.
This year’s “Victory Ride” recognized the fourth anniversary of Kitchen’s and Pratt’s death as well as the murder trial ending. Kitchen and Pratt were killed in their home Sept. 23, 2013, by Matthew Davis, who was convicted and sentenced in February 2017 to life in prison.
The memorial event started at 10 a.m. at the Oakfield Community Center. Ken Bustard, one of the organizers, updated everyone on the status of the recently formed “Mike and Heidi Community Fund,” which has been established as a Maine non-profit organization.
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- Three agencies were recognized Sept. 9 at the third annual Memorial Ride, Walk in Oakfield. Sgt Scott Richardson of the state fire marshal’s office; Michelle Cram, of the attorney general’s office; and Lt. Brian Harris of Maine State Police Troop F, accepted plaques on behalf of their respective agencies. (Ken Bustard)
Bustard shared how donations and funds from past memorial rides have been used and future plans to support a newly-developed park in Oakfield. The board of directors consist of Ken Bustard (president), Jerri Crandall (vice-president), Brenda Hersey (secretary), Torri Bates (treasurer), Joe McLaughlin (motorcycle liaison), Shannon Lloyd (public relations), Becky McLaughlin (director), Pearl Bustard (director) and Paul Suiter (director).
Joe McLaughlin presented a $500 scholarship to Chloe Davis, Heidi Pratt’s niece. Chloe is a first year student at Bates College. She had a close relationship with both Kitchen and Pratt. She was one of several people reading a victim impact statement during sentencing this past February.
Oakfield Town Manager Dale Morse presented plaques to three law enforcement agencies on behalf of “A Grateful Community.” Lt. Brian Harris, commander of Houlton Troop F, accepted the plaque on behalf of the state police major crimes unit northern division, Troop F Houlton and the state police crime lab. Sgt. Scott Richardson, a senior investigator for the northern division accepted the plaque on behalf of the state fire marshal’s office. Michelle Cram, victim advocate, accepted the plaque on behalf of the state attorney general’s office.
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- John Hall and son Iver were lucky winners of the “Family Basket” which was sponsored by Families and Children Together of Bangor during the third annual Memorial Walk and Ride in Oakfield Sept. 9. (Ken Bustard)
The plaque for the AG’s office was the only only one listing specific people involved in the case — assistant attorneys general Leane Zainea and Donald Macomber, and Michelle Cram, victim advocate.
Houlton Police Chief Tim Deluca, ride leader, gave a safety briefing to all riders. A total of 53 motorcycles left the parking lot at 10:30 am for a 90-minute ride. They were supported by members of the Aroostook County Sheriff’s Office, Caribou Police Department and Maine State Police. The motorcyclists were followed by several vintage automobiles.
Immediately following their departure, a sizeable crowd joined together for a walk to Kitchen and Pratt’s house lot, where they released balloons in their honor. They also were able to view the recently refurbished flower bed that has been planted in their memory.
Everyone returned to the Oakfield Community Center for food and refreshments.
The organizers began an auction at 12:45 p.m., where 20 items, ranging from a strawberry rhubarb pie donated by Rita Pratt of Oakfield to an elaborate wine basket donated by Brenda Hersey of Oakfield, were auctioned.
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- Brothers Carl Bustard of Rockland and Alden Bustard of Orrington display their Victory motorcycles in front of the banner during the Sept. 9 Memorial Ride and Walk in Oakfield. (Contributed/Ken Bustard)
The organizers reported raising slightly more than $3,000 from the auction. They then drew tickets for the 10 raffle baskets that had been on display. Thirty additional tickets were drawn for secondary prizes.
Several of the law enforcement representatives expressed their appreciation for being recognized. Sgt Scott Richardson of the fire marshal’s office commented how this type of event helps them remember what their work is all about and gives them the drive to go one more day.
Ken Bustard expressed his appreciation to the board of directors and the many volunteers who made the day possible. “I continue to be amazed at the faithfulness of family members and community members alike who take their time to honor Mike and Heidi.
“I have never been a part of another event where it is so easy to get volunteers,” Bustard said. “So many people just want to help and be a part. We will continue to remember them, as they are not easily forgotten.”
