Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — The Sesquicentennial Parade has come and gone, but not without leaving some lasting memories for participants and spectators alike.
Organizers were extremely proud of the event and how great the day turned out. “The Sesquicentennial Committee was, overall, very pleased with the three events that took place, beginning with fireworks Aug. 14 and continuing with the road race and parade on Aug. 15,” said Kim Smith, Committee chair.
“The fireworks were spectacular. We’ve received many positive comments. One of our local firemen (who set off these fireworks as well as all others in Presque Isle) said he felt this was ‘the most impressive display we have ever had in northern Maine.’ There were many people at the fairgrounds to watch and many more standing outside,” said Smith.
Smith said the enthusiasm continued even after the fireworks ended.
“One could hear the roar of the crowd and the honking of the horns following the display,” she said.
The Sesquicentennial 5K Run/Walk, organized by Smith’s husband, Chris Smith, was also well-received.
“The race went even better than we hoped. We felt that if we got 30 participants, it was a successful event. We had 58 register,” said Smith, noting many participants asked if organizers would consider making this an annual event. “Everyone seemed to enjoy the race, despite the warmer-than-usual temperature.”
Theresa Fowler, executive director of the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce, called the parade, “fun and exciting.”
“The excitement was shared by spectators and parade participants. There was a good turnout and lots of interaction between those in the parade and those on the sidelines watching,” said Fowler, adding the parade moved on at a steady pace, keeping the audience entertained for over an hour.
The Shriners’ participation was a special treat, according to Kim Smith.
“The parade was fabulous and made most memorable by the participation of 29 of the state’s 31 Shrine units. This, in fact, was one of the largest parades Presque Isle has seen in many years,” said Kim Smith.
Fowler said the combination of the Anah Shrine Temple Field Day and the participation of so many Shrine units helped enliven the parade.
“The Stomach Whistlers were a big hit,” noted Fowler, who indicated feedback has been very positive.
“People would like to have more summertime parades. It was considered one of the best parades ever,” she said.
The parade served as the backdrop for the unveiling of the downtown’s new logo.
“I think the new downtown logo portrays Presque Isle in a new light. It is the first step in branding the downtown area as a destination,” said Fowler.
Although Fowler didn’t get a chance to speak with any visiting Shriners, she invited them to come visit again.
“I hope they enjoyed their weekend here. We’d love to have them back. They’re welcome anytime,” said Fowler.
Smith said the Star City was fortunate to have the fraternal organization take part in the event. Normally, Shriners charge a fee to participate in such functions, as a way to raise funds for their hospitals and related programs.
“I have to send a very special thank-you to the Shrine units, as typically they are paid for their participation, which is how they raise money for their medical services. Since the Sesquicentennial Committee is a citizen committee, it did not have a budget. Funding had to be raised for every event we put on. The parade was no different. The Shriners came at no cost as a special favor to Tom Clukey, a fellow Shriner and co-chair of the Parade Committee,” said Smith.
Smith expressed gratitude to all who made the weekend such a success.
“I’d especially like to thank all of the people who made the weekend events possible: For the fireworks, the city and the Presque Isle Fire Department; for the 5K Run, Chris Smith for volunteering as race director, and to the sponsors, Dead River and UMPI Athletics; for the parade, the Chamber of Commerce, Tom Clukey and the Shriners,” said Smith. “And, of course, to the many volunteers who worked and organized the events as well.”
Sesquicentennial festivities continue this weekend, with a barbecue on Friday, Aug. 28, at the Northern Maine Fairgrounds, and a pie sale on Saturday, Aug. 29, in conjunction with Street Fair 2009.
For more information, contact Smith through the Presque Isle Historical Society, 762-1151.
