CARIBOU, Maine — While the Caribou Marathon brought racers from across the United States and Canada, the festival at the Rec Center brought music, food, and a variety of community organizations the country’s most northeastern city.
The Aroostook Roller Derby and Central Aroostook Humane Society were among many groups outside Caribou that made a presence during the Marathon festival, which was held in the Wellness Center from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.
The roller derby has been active for roughly three years, and they are working diligently to increase their membership and garner more involvement from the community. In addition to offering information, T-shirts, and food, the group promoted their upcoming bout against the Central Maine Derby on September 24, which begins at 6 p.m. in the Presque Isle Forum.
“One of our core values is to promote fitness in a way that is structurally strong with the body,” said Sarah Carmichael, a referee and non-skating official. “No matter who comes in, we will teach you how to skate and be a part of the team.”
“If you aren’t sure about skating, we always have positions that are non-skating,” said Financial Director Andrea Chasse. “So if you want to come and a part of something awesome, you are more than welcome.”
The group plans to unveil a new logo during the bout on the 24th and to offer new merchandise for those who attend.
“I think roller derby is important,” said Chasse. “Much like the Marathon, this is something that can get people out of the house, and it will last all winter long.”
“And it’s for any fitness or agility level,” said Carmichael. “Regardless of ability or gender, you can participate.”
On the other side of the Wellness Center, Central Aroostook Humane Society Board Secretary Gloria Towle sold a variety of homemade crafts and accepted donations for the organization.
“I’ve always had a love of animals,” said Towle, “and I know the Central Aroostook Humane Society does amazing work.”
In addition to helping with the animals, Towle also write weekly articles about the organization, and says she “enjoys making a difference.”
Next to the booth was a large board displaying photos of animals that are currently up for adoption at the shelter. The table itself featured T-shirts, bandanas, home-knitted products, and car magnets.
Like many shelters, spaying and neutering is a huge concern for the humane society, and something all members actively promote.
“People need to be aware that a 5-month-old kitten can give birth to a litter,” Towle said. “We try our best to have as many animals at the shelter spayed and neutered before they are adopted. It’s an important part of what we do.”
Currently, the group contracts with 28 towns in Aroostook County, and support from those communities helps the humane society continue their work.
“It takes a lot of fundraising and support from these communities to keep the shelter going,” Towle said.
