Crowd likes the Caribou Russet
PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Cary Medical Center took home the Best of Show/Large Booth honor at the 37th Annual Northern Maine Agri-Business Trade Fair, held Saturday and Sunday, March 25 and 26, at The Forum in Presque Isle.
The hospital promoted the new Caribou Russet potato along with health information. Hundreds of people enjoyed the stuffed potatoes, and some 250 pounds of potatoes were consumed. Bill Flagg, Director of Community Relations and Development at Cary said the reaction of the crowd was very positive.
“People were really pleased with this new russet potato,” said Flagg. “We heard many favorable comments, particularly on the flavor. It looks like The County has another winner and people were already asking where they could purchase the Caribou Russet. We are very grateful to the Maine Potato Board, who provided the potatoes to us at no charge and helped to support the Trade Show.”
This year’s show for the first time featured a specialty food section which showcased a variety of Aroostook County-made products. Flagg said that this proved to be a big hit and he thinks that part of the show will expand in years to come.
“Promoting locally grown foods and value-added products can really have an economic impact on The County,” said Flagg, who worked with the Fort Fairfield Chamber of Commerce to add this element to the show.
“I am convinced that this will continue to be a big attraction and will expand in years to come. Fort Fairfield Chamber of Commerce Director Tim Goff was really enthusiastic about the idea, and together with the chamber, did a great job with the entire event.”
Loring Job Corps’ culinary arts students served up the potatoes and toppings throughout the weekend. Flagg said the students were a great hit with the crowd and did a very professional job.
“These young men were fantastic,” said Flagg. ‘Not only did they do a good job serving the product, they were engaging with the crowd, pulling people in to try the potato. They even wanted to learn more about the product so that they could answer questions. The Job Corps students were a big reason why we took home the Best of Show.”
Pines Health Services also participated in the trade show, providing information on the organization’s case management services and other programs.
Cary Medical Center has participated at the Agri-Business Trade Show for more than 30 years and has won numerous awards for its exhibits.
