To the editor:
It is now the beginning of March and spring is on its way; I am long overdue in writing this letter. I have had great intentions, but have never seemed to find the right words. At this point I have simply resigned myself to “better late than never” and am hopeful that the words convey my feelings. Last year was Caribou’s 150th Celebration. What a celebration it was … .an entire year filled with reflections on our past, celebrations of the present, and hopes for the future. The events started in early 2009 with the Irish Dinner and continued throughout the year concluding with the New Year’s Eve dance. The events ranged from a cross country ski race to a tour of homes throughout the city. There was truly something for everybody. The “big celebration” was on September 5th with many, many activities planned throughout the day.
Since that time I have received numerous cards from individuals and groups saying how welcoming the people were along the parade route and within the entire community. Both the Pride of Black Bear Marching Band and St. Andrew’s Pipes and Drums indicated that they loved the atmosphere throughout the city.
I need to thank so many people for making that day such a success; it’s impossible to name them all.
To the core committee that kept the 150th ball rolling with so much time, energy, and excitment. Specifically: Bob Mockler, Jim Cyr, Deb Sirois, David Sleeper, and John Swanberg – “Thank you.” Because of your incredible dedication to “all things 150th”, the entire year was a success.
To the many civic groups such as Rotary, Lions, and Kiwanis of Caribou – “Thank you.” Your commitment to service was seen in so many of the projects of the 150th.
To the entire staff of Caribou Chamber of Commerce & Industry – “Thank you.” You were banner carriers, cheerleaders, and organizers throughout the year!
To the Aroostook Republican, particularly Barb Scott – “Thank you” for providing so much information to the community. You were both reporter and promoter!
To the Parade organizers who helped from beginning to end, specifically Kathy Mazzechelli, Gary Marquis, Chief Woods, Chief Gahagan, the CERT Team, Meagan Irving, and the staffs of Caribou Parks and Rec, Police, Fire and Ambulance – “Thank you” for the monumental task of keeping traffic moving, the streets safe, and putting up with my “vision” for a parade.
To the bus drivers and custodial crew of the Caribou School System – “Thank you” for keeping things running smoothly around the bus loop and at the high school.
To the incredible volunteers that helped from the early hours to the late night – “Thank you” for stepping up and always saying “I can do that” when asked. From the historic wagon to the water stop volunteers and everything in between, you proved that many hands do indeed make light work.
To the businesses who generously contributed to the parade and picnic that were enjoyed by so many – “Thank you.”
To the participants that pulled out all the stops and made their entries so special – “Thank you” for your time, talent, and patience! From the our Grand Marshall, Senator Susan Collins, through the very last ambulance, the parade was a moving celebration of community pride.
To the volunteers that made and served literally thousands of meals at the Caribou Ski Building – “Thank you.” The line was long but you served more people in a relatively short amount of time than we could have ever imagined.
To all of the performers at the picnic – “Thank you.” What an incredible display of talent.
Finally to the thousands of people that lined the parade route and continued to celebrate into the evening, it was all of you coming together that made the day a true celebration. You cheered for the parade participants, you enjoyed the the many performers at the Caribou High School, you shared birthday cake with family and friends from near and far, and wrapped-up the day with fireworks – “Thank you” for being part of the celebration.
Caribou’s 150th was a truly a year of celebration. It happened because the entire community got involved. “Thank you.”
Caribou 150th Parade
