Staff Writer
“We sold approximately 3,000 shortcakes this year. Thanks to KFC/Taco Bell, we had additional biscuits this year, so we were able to sell 200 extra shortcakes,” said Theresa Fowler, executive director of the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce.
YUMMY! — Raquelle Sterris enjoys a strawberry shortcake during the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual fund-raiser, held June 25 in Presque Isle. Joining her for the treat but not pictured were her sister, Isabelle Sterris, and her grandmother, Patricia Sterris.
Money raised through the annual sale goes toward Chamber expenses.
“These funds are used for general operation of the Chamber, which includes many projects that are held throughout the year,” Fowler explained.
Individuals and businesses made purchases on site as well as by placing orders for delivery.
“Orders placed in advance were delivered by volunteers. I believe Connect North America had the largest order, but the various departments at The Aroostook Medical Center were very close,” said Fowler.
Fowler said the support of businesses throughout the region that pre-order makes the Strawberry Shortcake Sale an event that will continue.
“The support of the general public, through stopping at the booth and purchasing shortcakes, whether one or several, makes it a success,” added Fowler.
Fowler stressed the importance of volunteers at the annual fund-raiser.
“We were fortunate this year to have so many Chamber members help with preparation and delivery. We were always ahead of schedule and had the shortcake delivered so people could enjoy them during their breaks,” she said.
Fowler expressed thanks to all who made this year’s event possible.
“Our thanks go to Robin Carter, who chaired this Committee again this year. Val Lunn spent many hours contacting businesses to obtain their orders and organized everything to make the day flow smoothly. Thanks also to all who helped throughout the day,” said Fowler. “Of course, this would not be a success without the support of the businesses and individuals who purchase and enjoy the strawberry shortcake.”
Customers this year included LeRae Kinney and her daughter, Libby, 5, of Mapleton.
“They’re good,” said Libby, as she dipped a spoon in a strawberry shortcake she shared with her mom.
Patricia Sterris, of Presque Isle, brought her granddaughters to enjoy the summer treat.
“Isabelle (Sterris) is the older one. She enjoyed hers last year, so I thought her new little sister, Raquelle (Sterris) would like to try one,” said Sterris.
Even Mother Nature cooperated for the day, offering up a bright, sunny sky for folks to enjoy while dining on a strawberry shortcake or two.
Plans are already being made for next year’s sale. For more information about the PIACC, call 764-6561.
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
MOTHER-DAUGHTER OUTING — LeRae Kinney, of Mapleton, shared a strawberry shortcake with her 5-year-old daughter, Libby Kinney, at this year’s strawberry shortcake sale, hosted by the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce.
PUTTING THE FINISHING touches on a batch of strawberry shortcakes is Nola Farley, PIACC board member. Assisting Farley at the June 25 fund-raiser were volunteers: Gail Clukey, Bill Corson and Jim McKenney.
