By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
FORT FAIRFIELD — The Rotary Club has had some informative luncheons recently, with guests Professor Alan Salo, board member of the Central Aroostook Humane Society, providing an overview of the animal shelter, while Steve Towle, event manager at the Nordic Heritage Sport Club, offered a glimpse at the biathlon slated for next year in Presque Isle.
Towle joined the club for lunch in September, sharing details of the World Cup Biathlon which is scheduled to take place in early February 2011. According to Towle, who serves as event manager for the world-class activity, Presque Isle and Fort Kent will host the only two World Cup events scheduled in the U.S.
“Steve covered a variety of topics, providing great detail of what’s planned,” said Donna Currie, Fort Fairfield Rotary Club host for Towle’s visit.
Club members learned the sport center is a four-season recreational facility that promotes a healthy family lifestyle.
“We were told biathlon is the number 1 sport in central Europe and is just now gaining momentum in the United States,” said Currie.
Rotarians learned of the economic impact such an event will have on Presque Isle, Fort Kent and throughout Aroostook County.
“The World Cup is a million-dollar event, with an economic multiplier estimated five times that amount,” said Currie, recalling details she learned from Towle’s presentation.
Hotels, restaurants and retail shops will all benefit from the upcoming athletic event. According to Towle, “Aroostook County will be in the eyes of the world during the two World Cup biathlon events.
Towle said currently there are 30 volunteers in the Organizing Committee, but Steve indicated about 400 total volunteers will be necessary to successfully run the event to completion.
Salo spoke to the Fort Fairfield club in August, telling those present how the Humane Society helps animals find loving homes. He described the monetary challenge that face non-profit groups, such as the Society, as they provide valuable services to the community.
“Club members agreed to donate $250 to the shelter,” said Tracy Copeland, who served as Fort Fairfield Rotary Club host during Salo’s visit.
For more information on the shelter, call 764-3441 or e-mail centralaroostookhumanesociety.org or visit 26 Cross St., Presque Isle.
