Search team seeks performers

A local non-profit agency is looking for folks with talent to help raise much-needed funds to enable it to continue doing the work it does throughout Aroostook County and the state.
    Northstar Search and Rescue is hosting the Spring Talent Show to raise money and awareness for the group. Over the years, NSSAR has been involved in a number of searches involving lost hunters, elderly individuals, children and others in need of help. Most recently, they’ve been involved with the search for Alexandria Winship-Wright, the 3-year-old who was reported missing in Fort Fairfield three weeks ago.     “We’ve been involved in searching for the little girl. We’ve also been involved in a couple other searches in the state in recent weeks,” said Chief Randy Michaud, of NSSAR.
Michaud said NSSAR is an all-volunteer organization whose purpose is to help others when they need help the most.
“Whether it’s a man with Alzheimer’s who wanders away from home, a hunter or hiker reported missing, a group of school children stranded in a flood – search and rescue is a life-saving vocation,” said Michaud.
Michaud added that the ability to save a life depends largely on how quickly rescuers can get to the person. NSSAR’s coverage area includes all of Aroostook County – an area measuring around 6,672 square miles or 21.6 percent of the state’s area.
“About 89 percent of the county’s area is forested, 1 percent is made up of lakes, ponds and rivers, with about 10 percent cultivated farmland,” said Michaud.
To do the job properly, volunteers undergo frequent training sessions. To hold those sessions and buy the equipment required to do the job properly takes money. That’s where the talent show comes into play.
“Northstar Search and Rescue has dedicated itself to preparing those involved in search and rescue to meet your expectations. Funds raised with this show will enable us to continue to serve the public,” said Michaud.
Whether you play a guitar, dance, sing, juggle or have some other field of expertise, your talent is needed.
“Come share your talent with us. All proceeds from the show goes to help Northstar Search and Rescue purchase new equipment,” said Michaud.
Talent show age groups include: 5 to 12, 13 to 19, 20 and up. A barbecue and raffle for prizes will be held during the show. The event is scheduled for Saturday, May 19, at the Hayward-Frazier VFW Post 2599 in Presque Isle from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration is free. To register or for more information, contact Lisa Michaud at 764-3866 or 227-8844.
“Come and have a wonderful time and enjoy the many talents of the citizens of Aroostook County,” said Michaud.