Boone Lecture
to explore efforts to eradicate polio
PRESQUE ISLE — Polio has been eradicated in the United States, but it continues to be endemic in some other parts of the world. This year’s Storer Boone Memorial Lecture — scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 24 at the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s Campus Center — explores the current state of the disease and Rotary International’s efforts to completely eliminate polio.
“It’s easy to forget about polio because the disease is often thought to be a problem of the past,” said Joy Barresi Saucier, TAMC vice president of knowledge services and Presque Isle Rotary Club president. “But it still has a huge impact on communities in certain countries in Africa and South Asia.”
This year’s lecture will feature Dr. Vatsala Kirtani, a TAMC physician who will provide information about India’s successful fight against polio. Leigh Cummings of Houlton, immediate past district governor of Rotary District 7810, will discuss Rotary International’s quest to eradicate the disease, while local polio survivor Steve Mazerolle of Caribou will be on hand to share his personal experience.
“Medical professionals and the public alike will find the presentations to be interesting and informative,” said Barresi Saucier. “This year’s Boone Lecture offers an opportunity to bring attention to polio and recognize the rich history of medicine in Aroostook County.”
The annual Boone Lecture is held to remember longtime local physician Dr. Storer Boone (1894-1981) while providing local health care professionals and the community with a health-related educational opportunity.
Continuing an annual tradition of recognizing physicians who have provided exceptional service to the community, Dr. Arthur Pendleton will be honored at this year’s lecture for his long history of practicing medicine in Fort Fairfield.
This year’s Boone Lecture will be the final activity in an entire day of events coordinated by the Presque Isle Rotary Club, UMPI, and TAMC to celebrate World Polio Day. For a complete list of events, visit www.umpi.edu.
