By Jane Torres
Special to the Houlton Pioneer Times
It is time, once again, for our much-anticipated December run of “Hidden Treasures.” This year there will be the usual outstanding shopping opportunities, but there will also be some of our overlooked people, organizations, and events that we all might forget to appreciate in our everyday lives. So, without further ado, here is the first batch of “Hidden Treasures.”
Hidden Treasures No. 1 — The collective group of law officers who we are fortunate to be surrounded by which became apparent to me at this year’s Holiday Light Parade. The parade was led by Houlton’s Police Chief and followed by representatives from the Maine State Police, Sheriff’s Department, Border Patrol, Customs and Border Protection and the Fire Department. Thank you all for “Protecting and Serving” from a very grateful community.
Hidden Treasures No. 2 — Daniel’s Florist has long been an icon in the community owned and operated by Karen and Russell Fitzpatrick. Change is often difficult, but the sale and transition of the business to Erin and Dana Johnson has been almost seamless. Not only do they offer complete floral services, but they have many great gifts available. My favorite is the pottery by the immensely talented Sue Gerard. If you have ever been to a Chamber craft fair before 9 a.m. you know that Sue is wildly popular and usually sold out by 10 a.m. Stop in to Daniels and avoid the lines and if you ask, they might even order that special piece you have been looking for.
Hidden Treasures No. 3 — Many of you are familiar with the Chiropractic Center on the B Road just off Route 1, but did you know that it is now known as Bell Chiropractic? Chris Bell and his wife Martha have changed things up a bit and added on a store called County Naturals. This store specializes in essential oils, vitamins, minerals, and all natural products to keep you and your family in the best of health over this holiday season and beyond. Martha also has a small boutique where you can find just the right gift for the ladies in your life. Great gift ideas, lovely scents and lotions, and knowledgeable staff… does it get any better? Happy shopping!
Hidden Treasures No. 4 — Indulge me on this one folks. To get Sister Two (I really am not ignoring you) off my case and because she is a member three-times over with Agri-Cal, Trendsetters and the wonderfully popular Two Sisters. (Plus it would be really hard to put on events without her.) I would like you all to know, she really is a hidden treasure! Her salon not only sells gift certificates for hair, nails, and pedicures she also takes care of our beloved Trollbeads so that I can be here in this office everyday taking care of you!
Hidden Treasures No. 5 — The Cake and Ladle in Market Square. A rather quirky place, this little café is tucked in between Beals and Shiretown Coin and offers coffee, tea, pastries (some are gluten-free too!), soups and bagels to office workers and weary shoppers alike. When you walk in the door, the lovely smells of homemade soup waft from the kitchen and promise a delightful lunch! Bon Appétit!
Hidden Treasures No. 6 — Mainely Piñatas has been hand making piñatas to order since Paula Dahlk and her husband and family moved to the area a few years back. These miniature works of art a great gift idea for adults and children alike. Having a family Christmas party? A Santa piñata would be just the thing to get your party off to the right start and live up the festivities! Call Paula at 538-1769.
Hidden Treasures No. 7 — A complete car detailing at York’s of Houlton. I hate to clean my car out in the winter and it gets pretty gnarly looking. Wouldn’t it be great to have someone else remove those white salt marks on the carpet? Someone else who could make it look and smell brand new. I bet if you asked, those nice people at York’s would sell you some gift certificates…. Just sayin’, sometimes I am brilliant!
Hidden Treasures No. 8 — And to maintain that nice shiny look? Stop by Doc’s on the corner of Bangor St. and Military and pick up a handful of car wash tokens.
These make great stocking stuffers and it sure is handy to just drive right in and not have to stop to purchase a token every time you want to remove the grime of winter driving.
Hidden Treasure No. 9 — I know I did this last year, but this year Chadwick’s Florist and Greenhouses was bought by Amanda Dunham in early spring. Amanda has taken on this new business with gusto and has an eclectic selection of gifts that are sure to please. Sterling silver jewelry, scarves, ornaments, country crafts, candles … you will be amazed — guaranteed!
By the way, Amanda’s family made the garland on the front of the Chamber so you can tell that quality is important to the folks at Chadwick’s! Also, that stuff is hard to make so they saved me many hours of frustration.
