Annual outing
brings laughter to area snowmobile trail
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
JOE POWERS, one of several volunteers who provided snowmobile rides during Fun Day festivities on March 6, prepares to take another group on the trail. Pictured are passengers J.J. Bell (on the sled), and in the tote are Stephanie Hanson and Ryan Hanson.
Staff photos/Kathy McCarty
RAY BUCKLIN waves as Kendall Weber brings him back from a ride on the trail adjacent to the Shriners’ Building in Presque Isle.
THE KITCHEN at the Shriners’ Building in Presque Isle was a popular spot during Fun Day festivities, as participants stopped by for a homemade muffin, drinks and more. Pictured facing the window is an unidentified boy and Beth Flannery. Kitchen help included members of the Spragueville Homemakers Extension. Pictured are Sylvia Harper, Carmen Wiggins and Marianne Thomas.
LISA JONES, of Presque Isle, gets her photo taken with Disco, during the annual Fun Day event at the Shriners’ Building.
SCOTT THOMPSON, director of the Aroostook State Park, was one of several volunteers giving rides during the 24th annual Fun Day, held at the Shriners’ Building on the Houlton Road in Presque Isle. Among his passengers was Matt McMann, whose wheelchair easily fit into a specially-made tote sled.
RICH WARK, a Shriner and deputy chief of the Presque Isle Fire Department, prepares to take to the trails near the Shriners’ Building in Presque Isle, joined by clients of the Central Aroostook Association. On the sled with Wark is Cassie Byrd.
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — Clients and staff of Central Aroostook Association were treated to a day of snowmobile rides and good food, hosted March 6 by the Presque Isle Snowmobile Club at the Shriners’ Building on the Houlton Road. Warmer temperatures and ample snow on the well-groomed trails provided the perfect setting for lots of fun for all.
Approximately 100 people turned out for the annual Fun Day festivities.
“It was a great day for the ride. The turnout does seem to grow every year — both the clients and the volunteers who make it possible,” said Dave Steeves, event organizer.
Steeves said this year was a huge success.
“My only expectation is to see smiles on everyone’s faces and hear the excitement in everyone’s voices. There was a lot of excitement out on the trail at 15 or 20 miles per hour, with snow spraying in the air and red cheeks on everyone — all hollering ‘faster, go faster,’” said Steeves.
Steeves said volunteers included about 14 snowmobiles and drivers, with eight volunteers helping in the yard, plus the ladies in the kitchen (most members of the Spragueville Homemakers Extension).
“The snowmobile count was down, but thanks to a couple of volunteers, several large tote sleds have been built that can carry four or five people or a wheelchair with a support person. So participants go for a couple-mile snowmobile ride, come back — go inside and warm up and then get in line to go again,” Steeves said.
Pam Powers, director of adult services for CAA, was pleased with the day’s activities, which she said clients look forward to for weeks in advance.
“There was a nice turnout of people willing to help with the snowmobile rides, along with the people working inside. With over 75 people attending the event, it went smoothly and everyone had a great time,” said Powers.
“The event was very organized. The weather was so nice, it made riding even more fun,” continued Powers.
She said many of the participants remember their favorite snowmobiles from past events and specifically asked to ride with them again this year.
“The people attending had a great time. This is an event they will be talking about for some time. Many of the people have favorite sleds they choose to ride on, whether it is the make of the snowmobile, size or style,” said Powers.
Steeves said the joy the day brings to participants is immeasurable.
“Everyone goes away feeling good. And when we say goodbye, it’s knowing we’ll do it all again next year the first Wednesday in March,” said Steeves.
This marked the 24th year the Fun Day festivities have been held.
“Plans are already in the works for the 25th year. It’s a great partnership between the Presque Isle Snowmobile Club and the Shrine Club, for a community event that brings as much joy to the volunteers as it does those riding on the back of the snowmobiles — we’re all having a great day,” said Steeves, who wished to publicly thank all the sponsors who donated toward the meal and the volunteers who helped in the kitchen. He also thanked the volunteers who brought their snowmobiles and made countless trips taking participants for rides they’ll long remember.
“The members of the Spragueville Extension served coffee, muffins, hot chocolate and helped serve the meals. The Shrine clowns entertained those who couldn’t enjoy the snowmobiling. And thanks too to the staff of Central Aroostook Association. This would not be possible without all of you,” said Steeves.
