Partnership bodes well for Balloon Fest
To the editor:
We are so fortunate to live in an area where so many take an active interest in maintaining lively communities and hosting events that will draw others to the area to further support our economy.
The Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce has been supporting the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest and the hot air balloon activities that preceded it since 2003. This year increased insurance requirements, announced late in the planning stages, caused the Chamber to seek additional assistance from the area. When we announced the additional financial demands presented by the need to purchase a new insurance policy, the City of Presque Isle expressed an interest in assisting, then the Mapleton Lions Club stepped forward offering to replace the Chamber as the host of the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest, providing insurance coverage and the involvement of its members. The Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce believes this is a positive partnership and will be beneficial to the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest.
The Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce supports the commercial, agricultural and civic interests of 13 communities. Being replaced as the host of the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest will allow us to better support all communities.
Mapleton Lions Club is part of an international organization that meets the needs of local communities and the world. The 1.35 million members of this volunteer organization in 206 countries and geographic areas are different in many ways, but share a core belief – community is what we make it. The energy this organization and similar organizations will contribute to the planning and fulfillment of the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest in the future will help it grow.
The Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce will continue to be actively involved in the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest. and look forward to working with the Mapleton Lions Club and the organizing committee.
Theresa Fowler
Executive Director
