RESQUE ISLE, Maine — The Probus Club of Central Aroostook held their regular monthly meeting on Feb. 21.
Jon Blanchard, director of residential life at Northern Maine Community College, was the guest speaker. He told of his career path to his current position. His desire was to raise his family in the friendly and supportive environment of Aroostook County. He emphasized the ability to take advantage of many affordable opportunities available, whereas in the more crowded southern areas, one has to choose one or few activities.
He also spoke of his children’s interactions with the students at NMCC, as well as his wife’s activity in bringing high-end used clothes from a New Hampshire organization to be resold at reasonable prices, the money going to local organizations, such as the Wintergreen Arts Center.
Blanchard shared anecdotes related to his work with the students, the characteristics of life in the residence halls, and the college’s flexibility in reacting to the changing economy.
He concluded by answering questions and leading a broad discussion of a range of subjects that included the work ethic of 21st-century students and personal relationships in the digital age.
The meeting concluded with Janet Snow reading “Ah Ha Moments,” about those moments that seem major in one’s time, but are minor in the eye of the expert.
