It seems spring has finally arrived in The County. Spring means more sun, longer days and warmer temperatures. Studies show us that with these things come a mood boost, less stress, more exercise, improved memory and increased creative thought. After the challenging past year, a certain hopefulness comes with this spring as well.
Here in our area, local hospitals and others have worked diligently and efficiently to provide COVID vaccines. Overall, this has resulted in just over 33 percent of our population having received at least one COVID vaccine shot. The Governor has responded by issuing updated “Moving Maine Forward” guidelines. As of May 1, Maine’s travel policy gives all states an exemption. On May 24, the indoor gathering capacity increases to 75 percent and the outdoor gathering capacity returns to 100 percent.
All of this combines to give us increased hope of life returning to some sense of normalcy soon. So, it is great news that events are once again being planned.
Presque Isle Historical Society starts its 2021 season by bringing back trolley tours on May 8 with the Jim Cullen tour and citywide historical tours. New this year will be a guided tour of the Presque Isle Air Museum and the former Presque Isle Army Air Base aboard the trolley (www.pihistory.org). Other tours include tours of the 1875 Vera Estey House Museum, a Civil War Trails Tour, Haunted Hearse Tours and a guided tour of historic Fairmount Cemetery.
On May 22, the Farmers Market here in Presque Isle will open for the season (https://www.facebook.com/pifarmersmarket) with an expected 30 vendors and Presque Isle’s Downtown Revitalization Committee (https://www.facebook.com/pidrc) will bring the County’s Fiddlehead Festival and first downtown concert of the season.
Don’t forget about the fun events being offered by Wintergreen Arts Center, such as the continuing First Friday Art Walks and Adult Art Nights. For more information about these visit https://www.facebook.com/wintergreenarts.
It’s spring. Get out and enjoy all that our wonderful community has to offer.
Kimberly R. Smith is the resource development and public information officer for the city of Presque Isle. She can be reached at 760-2722 or via email at ksmith@presqueisleme.us.
