Ms. Ashland Fireman pageant a flaming success
ASHLAND NEWS
by Susan Feeney Hopkins
The Ashland Fire Department sponsored the first-ever Ms. Ashland Fireman Pageant Saturday, March 26 at the Ashland District School auditorium. The theme for the evening was, “A Night of Flaming Laughter.” Laughter was heard throughout the evening as the six gorgeous contestants vied for the title of “Ms. Ashland Fireman.”
Photo courtesy of Pat Long
WHAT A BEAUTY — The newly crowned Ms. Ashland Fireman, “Scott Pack Sally” (Tom Raymond), is shown waving to his/her subjects.
All proceeds will be used to purchase new dress uniforms for the firemen in memory of former chief, friend and fireman Donnie “Casper” O’Clair. Chief Don Bouley said, “Nothing like this has ever been done to my knowledge in Aroostook County, and for my guys to step up like this is just one more example that shows what they are made of. They do it all if asked.” Do it all they did! These men performed at their comedic best and brought so much laughter to the community. The uniform project was begun by the late O’Clair, who had “the dream” to outfit the department members with dress uniforms. One uniform was worn that evening in his memory and to also show the community what the department is aspiring for.
Photo courtesy of Pat Long
ASHLAND’S FINEST vie for the title of “Ms. Ashland Fireman.” Participating in the recent pageant were, from left: John Thyng Jr., Myles Bolstridge, Tom Raymond, Kenny Dubois, Pat Long, Stan Saucier and John Thyng Sr.
Six firemen competed in the beauty contest with an opening number to “It’s Raining Men,” followed by the talent, gown and question portion of the competition. Though it was a very close call, “Scott Pack Sally” (Tom Raymond) was chosen the first Ms. Ashland Fireman. Should he/she be unable to complete the duties as required of the new Ms., first runner-up “Pike Pole Peggy” (John Thyng) would then take the title. The second runner-up was “Ruby Red Light” (Stan Saucier). Others competing were “Flaming Fancy” (John Thyng Jr.), “Jazzy Jaws” (Kenny Dubois) and “Axxi Maxxi” (Myles Bolstridge). Special thanks to “Siren Irene” (Robbie Lavertu) and “Carol Burn-ett” (Pat Long).
Photo courtesy of Pat Long
DAPPER DON — Ashland Fire Chief Donald Bouley stands proud in the department’s new dress uniform. The department held its first Ms. Ashland Fireman Pageant to raise funds to purchase new dress uniforms for all members, a project and “dream” begun by Ashland’s former chief, the late Donnie O’Clair.
The crowd was treated to a special performance by local favorite, Fireman Fred, who performed two musical numbers. A very special appearance was made by “Carol Burn-ett” who presented the closing number, “I’m So Glad We Had This Time Together.”
Shari Ward did an excellent job hosting as the “Mistress of Ceremonies” for the evening. Knowing most of the contestants firsthand allowed for a lot of good adlibbing, which garnered plenty of laughs. The department wishes to thank all who made this evening possible.
Photo courtesy of Pat Long
ASHLAND FIREMAN Pat Long performs in the first-ever Ms. Ashland Fireman Pageant as “Carol “Burn-ett.”
“None of this would have ever been possible without the help and support of one special person, pageant director and friend, Amy Stedman, who at the time was seven months pregnant. She was a trooper and we love her to death,” said department member and newly crowned Ms. Ashland Fireman, Tom Raymond. “She made it so much fun and the outcome was all because she made us work hard but still kept it fun.”
They wish to extend their gratitude to the school district for allowing the use of the building, making the evening more comfortable for contestants and community members.
The department is hopeful a video of the event will be available “for a nominal fee.” If you are interested in purchasing a copy, please contact any Ashland fireman with your contact information. Great night ladies and guys! You all give so much of yourselves to our community. Laughter is just another one of your many talents. Donnie would be proud!
Ashland District School news
The Ashland District School has been abuzz with many activities and goings-on. So many, in fact, the school has a newly assigned “PR” team consisting of retired teachers Natalie Smith and Judy Nichols. Both are currently active at the school and have volunteered for this very important role. I would like to thank Nat and Judy for their enthusiasm and cooperation. Together we hope to bring more student and school life news to the community. And so we begin …
Photo courtesy of Ashland District School
STUDENTS at Ashland District School were shown the “power walking technique” by a Maine Winter Sports Center athlete during a recent fitness challenge. Students were encouraged to become more physically active. Shown here are, from left: students Rachel Vallencourt, Brittany Harris, Melinda McAleese from the Maine Winter Sports Center, Kaitlyn Paradis and Savannah Flint.
• The Ashland District School hosted a C.A.S.E. and PBIS grant-sponsored workshop for school districts countywide. There were approximately 160 educators that attended. The guest speaker was Stan Davis, who presented the topic, “Stop Bullying Now.” Workshops of this type are meant to educate and inform educators on current issues affecting their students. A tour of the new school was given by students and a luncheon was served.
Photo courtesy of Ashland District School
ASHLAND MIDDLE SCHOOL students stand in the “Warrior Pose” with Yoga instructor Julie French, far right, during the middle school’s “Let’s Go!” fitness challenge.
• The Ashland Middle School teachers challenged their middle school students to become more physically active in the “Let’s Go!” challenge. The students were encouraged to increase their physical activity and were allowed to choose from several workshops including Physical Conditioning, presented by athlete Melinda McAleese of the Maine Winter Sports Center, Zumba Fitness, presented by Zumba instructor Mandy Putnam and Yoga, presented by Yoga instructor Julie French. The student participants had a great time learning about these fun and effective fitness activities.
Portage Lake Scout to be honored with Eagle Scout Court of Honor
Sean Robertson, 18, the son of Allen Robertson of Portage Lake and Sandra Robertson of Presque Isle, will be honored at a special Eagle Court of Honor celebration Saturday, April 16 at 2 p.m. The ceremony will take place at the Portage Lake Municipal Building. All are invited and welcome to attend!
Sean completed his Eagle Scout Leadership Project last summer by organizing the building and painting of 20 picnic tables for the Ashland Fish and Game Club. Under Sean’s direction, family, friends and fellow Boy Scouts helped with his project. This was the final step in earning on Eagle Scout rank. Thanks to Sean’s leadership and dedication, many members and guests of the Fish and Game Club will enjoy the tables for years to come.
Along the path to Eagle Scout, Sean also earned 21 merit badges and served in leadership positions, including Quartermaster, Patrol Leader and Senior Patrol Leader.
Sean is a senior at Presque Isle High School and is planning to attend college after graduation.
Ashland Senior Citizens are moving
Photo courtesy of the Ashland Area Senior Citizens Club
THE ASHLAND AREA SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB recently enjoyed a potluck luncheon with new Ashland Town Manager Ralph Dwyer. Dwyer discussed town business and fielded many questions from the club members while enjoying a great meal. Pictured are, from left: Club President Cleo Bernier, Dwyer, and club member Virginia Robinson.
The Ashland Area Senior Citizens are “finally” moving to the LeBlanc Junkins VFW Post 9699 on the Portage Road. They will be holding their first meeting there Thursday, April 7. From then on, they will meet every Thursday at noon for a potluck luncheon. This active and growing club of senior citizens also takes trips to various restaurants throughout The County, hosts cookouts, enjoys guest speakers and entertainment such as musicians. If you are a senior citizen living in the Ashland and surrounding areas, you should give this club a try! Get out of the house and enjoy the company of your neighbors and friends. This is a great time of year to begin something new and exciting! For more information, contact Roberta Savary at 435-6422.
Susan Feeney-Hopkins is the correspondent for Ashland, Portage Lake, Oxbow, Masardis, Garfield, Nashville Plantation and the surrounding areas. She can be reached at 435-8232 or Feenhop@aol.com.
