The Probus Club of Central Aroostook held its monthly meeting on Thursday, Feb. 17, at NMCC.President Karen Sweeney opened the meeting, then turned the program over to Mel Fitzherbert, who introduced guest speaker Steve Sutter. Steve gave a very interesting presentation to the 18 members present about the Loring Wildlife Refuge. He spoke about the volunteer effort that has gone into making this 4,900 acres with 10 ponds located on land previously operated as Loring Air Force Base. He gave a slide presentation about the wildlife, birds and walking trails available to the public.
Steve spoke about the quality of various waterways in Aroostook, including the Aroostook River, Presque Isle Stream and Mantle Lake. He talked about the various kinds of pollution that threaten our water and the various agencies involved in the research to keep them healthy.
Karen called the business meeting to order. The secretary’s and treasurer’s reports were read and approved. Richard Barker announced the yearly $500 scholarship for an NMCC student was awarded to Ashley Ward of Westfield.
Helen McConnell reported for the planning committee regarding the luncheon to honor Mary McBride. Mary who was honored at the club’s next meeting, March 17, with a luncheon provided by the cafeteria. Mary is a charter member of the Probus Chapter.
Karen told the group that she had received a call from a member of the Canadian Chapter of Probus of which the Central Aroostook Chapter is affiliated. He would like to plan to come to visit our chapter at a later date. Pearl Carmichael read a poem entitled “Life’s Recipe.” With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
