Staff Writer
HOULTON — The area has been blanketed with long awaited snow, and hopefully it will stay on the ground for the 2008 Moosestompers celebration in Houlton on Feb.1-3.
“Moosestompers is a wonderful winter experience for Houlton,” said Lori Weston, director of the Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce. “This year in particular, with all of the snow, it will be a grand event.”
Two years ago, festivities drew a smaller crowd because events were cancelled due to lack of snow, but last year, despite the bitter temperatures, people turned out.
“It’s hard to judge the exact number of people who participate in the Moosestomper’s weekend,” said organizer Jim Brown. “I believe it has steadily grown and the festivity continues to be well-received by the community through the support shown and other local organizations coming on board each year.”
Though the events take place at Houlton’s Community Park, Weston said people are drawn to the whole area.
“It brings folks into the community from other places around the County and state,” she said. “The local merchants do enjoy increased traffic and sales over the weekend, as well.”
Among the more popular events for the children is sliding on Derby Hill, as well as all the children’s games held at Community Park. But the children aren’t the only ones to enjoy the weekend, as there are various adult activities, too.
“We have added a couple of more new events,” said Brown. “This is a good family event and kids love it.”
Also during the weekend, the Chamber of Commerce sponsors free movie matinees as Houlton Temple Theater in Market Square.
“The matinees allow parents the luxury of dropping their children off for a movie, while they shop the downtown and the North Road stores,” Weston explained. “They can shop at their leisure.”
If the weather is uncooperative, people can be informed of cancellations by the radio — WHOU 100.1 FM radio —television, the local access channel — or through the Internet by visiting www.moosestompers.com.
During the Moosestompers weekend, the Houlton Rotary Club is teaming up with St. Mary’s Food Pantry to replenish food supplies. Participants may bring non-perishable food items to Millar Civic Center, the Houlton Fair Association building or drop off items at participating businesses and organizations during the weekend.
For more information, contact Brown at 532-6502, via e-mail at jwb@madiganestates.com or check out their Web site at www.moosestompers.com.
“Pray for good weather and have fun with your kids,” Brown said. “And be thankful you live in Houlton.”
