PRESQUE ISLE, Maine – Smiles and laughter abounded Feb. 28 at the Aroostook County Shrine Club on Route 1 as Shriners teamed up with volunteers and members of area snowmobile clubs, including the Presque Isle Snowmobile Club, to provide a day of fun for clients of the Opportunity Training Center.
This year marked the 18th time the event has been held. The day-long outing included free snowmobile rides, food and activities for participants.
Last year’s ride had to be cancelled due to the cold weather. But that wasn’t the case this year, as bright sunshine and blue skies, combined with seasonable temperatures, provided an ideal day.
This marked the first year John Graves, president of the PISC, was able to take part.
“My work schedule before now prevented me from taking part. I’m at a new job now and was able to work this into my schedule,” said Graves. “We’ve got 25 to 30 support staff here today, with around 100 clients expected to participate from all over Aroostook County.”
Bus after bus carrying happy passengers made their way through the parking lot, stopping at the building’s main door to drop clients off.
Fred Haines, a member of the PISC who is also a Shriner, said he enjoyed the event and even developed a sled to use for such purposes. Haines has taken part in all but two such events.
“I’ve taken part in 16 all together. I missed the first one and one in 2001. I’ve built two sleds for this,” said Haines, pointing to sleds that are designed to be towed behind snowmobiles that have a seating capacity – depending on the size of the riders – of three adults or seven to nine children.
Members of the Spragueville Homemakers Extension volunteered to work in the kitchen and brought homemade treats, such as muffins, for participants to enjoy.
“The ladies do a wonderful job and their cooking is fantastic,” said Graves.
Members of the Mapleton and Presque Isle fire departments used their day off to help with the ride. For many of the clients, this isn’t their first time sledding.
“I’ve done this several times. I enjoy getting out and enjoying the nice weather,” said Kent Stevens, as he waited in line for a ride on one of several snowmobiles taking clients around a nearby field.
To ensure safety, PISC crews cleared a trail in a nearby field, avoiding traffic on regularly groomed trails.
“We wanted to be sure the ride was safe for all involved. By creating our own trail, we avoided contact with other snowmobilers,” said Haines.
Clowns were also on hand to entertain, laughing, telling jokes and making balloon creations for participants.
“This is a great event. The clients have so much fun. Seeing their smiles makes this all worthwhile,” said Rainbow, an Anah Temple Shrine Klown.
Tthat’s how the day ended, with participants – smiles still on their faces – getting aboard buses to depart a day filled with fun and memories.
