Summer has come to an end on the calendar. Contrary to the conniptions of weather seers, Aroostook County still enjoys the long hot days of summertime. Yes, we know that soon the leaves will change their colors and the pleasant green of warm days will be replaced by reds, yellows, oranges and browns. The County has cornered the market on gorgeous views. Blue skies and cloud free, it’s the perfect place to just take a moment and breathe.
Few places can afford such moments, and a tip of the hat to all the registered Maine Guides shepherding old and young around the various streams, ponds, swamps and fields of the state. They are doing their best to show off this great state to one and all.
Gold Star Outfitters is one such guide service. One has to go to China to use the service — China, Maine, that is. Gold Star Outfitters has built a program for veterans to rediscover the joys of fishing, hunting, and the outdoors. Guides spend much of their time carting carloads of enthusiasts, greenhorns, and experienced to small corners of the state. Beauty surrounds them and their constant message is to stop and enjoy the sights. The flick of a fly rod, the crunch of leaves, and coffee while sitting in the tree stand make up the daily life of a registered guide. Life is good.
In the daily trek back and forth from base camp to outpost, the guides can peruse the comings and goings of wildlife and wonder. They are always willing to showcase the pleasures of life in the slow lane — and slow is the operative word on a sunny day.
Catherine Gordon, one of the newest guides, taught Bangor High School students the rudiments of algebraic formulas and geometric abstractions for 30 years. As a guide, she travels throughout the state, from coastal floodplains to the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. Her passengers are the men and women who served this country when called. For many of these heroes, an angel on winged victory means much. Her motorcycle, kayak and sled carry this guide to her starting place, all in an effort to support the veterans who have seen so much.
It’s an effort to bring back beauty. She does it well.
One might see this humble Valkyrie in daily travels. Just be aware that her truck may stop suddenly. These sudden stops are moments when she sees some marvelous scene unfolding before her guests.
Finding beauty in the midst of chaos and turmoil is the key. This is where one will find the bumper sticker, “I brake for beauty.” Take a moment, breathe deep, and enjoy.
Orpheus Allison is a photojournalist living in The County who graduated from UMPI and earned a master of liberal arts degree from the University of North Carolina. He began his journalism career at WAGM television later working in many different areas of the US. After 20 years of television he changed careers and taught in China and Korea.
