Snow and ice can be dangerous, but can also be useful and fun. Ice shacks are out on Pleasant Pond and Mattawamkeag Lake, as fishing season opened Jan. 1. I’ve seen photos of some nice fish taken already and I’m sure there will be more.
Snowsledders must be enjoying the first year in a few that we’ve had great sledding this early in the season. Trail makers are working hard to build trails for all. The snowsled clubs in each town have trail maps and rule books, and most town offices have them also.
The basketball season is in full play. Our RSU 50 teams are doing well and the younger groups are playing around the area. There will be a round-robin basketball event at the Island Falls Municipal Building on Saturday, Jan. 21. This will feature the very young basketball players from Island Falls and surrounding towns — first- through fourth-graders, future school stars, learning teamwork, rules and sportsmanship.
Spend the day watching the little ones play ball and then don’t worry about supper. The fifth grade from Southern Aroostook Community School will hold a spaghetti supper from 5-7pm on Jan. 21 at the Big Valley Sno Club in Island Falls. The proceeds will help finance the class’ Boston trip in the spring. The cost is $7 for adults and $4 for children under 12.
The United Baptist Church will host a Red Cross blood drive on Saturday, Jan. 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Traditionally the events have been held at the Municipal Building, but will now be held at the church. The need for blood never lessens and donations are needed and appreciated. While walk-ins are welcome, to schedule a specific time to donate, call 1-800-REDCROSS or go online at www.redcrossblood.org. A Dunkin’ Donuts gift card will be offered to those who donate.
We have received notice that Marjorie Pulkkinen Carter, a former resident, has passed away in Auburn. Marjorie was a member of the Class of 1951 at Island Falls High School, and returned home each year to visit at alumni time. Our condolences are extended to family.
Effective Feb. 1, our Katahdin Trust Company branch in Island Falls will be open Tuesday 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Thursday 9 a.m.-3 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.-12 noon.
