Our Maine Street : Issue 14 Fall 2012 by Our Maine Street LLC

Welcome to the digital copy! These digital issues are made possible by our advertisers.

Photo Copyright ÂŠ 2012 Ken Lamb northernshutter.com

Co n t e n t s October, November and December 2012

In This Issue

12 Milk Bottles by Ted Blanchard 20 Pink Aroostook by Tamra Kilcollins 26 The Science Behind Autumn Splendor by Jen Brophy, MSSM 30 A Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wife by Debi A. Martin Smith 38 The Mystery of the Bell by UMFK 44 Rehab Close to Home by TAMC

51 A True Christmas Story by Barbara Boucher

56 The County, MY Second Home by Lindsey Cochran 60 Brambleberry Market 64 Pines Team Rescues Fawn by Debbie Leighton 68 Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Deficiency by Professional Home Nursing 70 Canteberry Royale 76 Healthy You: Pets and Health by Kim Jones

Our Maine Street LLC 48 Presque Isle Street, Fort Fairﬁeld, ME 04742 www.ourmainestreet.com 207.472.3464

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Our Maine Street m agaz ine

Publisher Our Maine Street LLC Editor In Chief Craig Cormier Circulation / Advertising Charles Cormier Staff Illustrator Holly Hardwick information: content@ourmainestreet.com

Many Thanks to: (in no particular order)

Pete Bowmaster, Gene Cyr, Ken Lamb, Tamra Kilcollins, Debi A. Smith, Kim Jones, Lyndsey Maynard, Harriet Libby Bitar, Amanda J. Devaney, Ted Blanchard, Debbie Leighton, TAMC, UMFK, NMCC, UMPI, Jen Brophy, Professional Home Nursing, Barbara Boucher, Lindsey Cochran Content and subscription Copyright © 2012 Our Maine Street LCC. Our Maine Street LLC is jointly owned by Charles, Cheryl and Craig Cormier. Proudly printed in New England, United States of Amerca.

207.472.3464 48 Presque Isle Street Fort Fairfield, ME 04742 www.ourmainestreet.com

This publication is made possible by the generous support of our advertising partners. Please let them know you saw them in Our Maine Street Magazine and that you appreciate their support of County projects. Aroostook County Chambers of Commerce, Aroostook Milling & Stove Shop, Aroostook Real Estate, Aroostook Technologies Inc, Ben’s Trading Post, Boondock’s Grille, Bouchard Family Farms, CRG Insurance, Carvings by Coté, Cary Medical Center, Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce, Clifford L Rhome CPA, P.A., Clukey’s Auto Supply, Fort Kent Ski-Doo, Graves’ Shop ‘n Save, Hometown Fuels, I Care Pharmacy, Jerry’s Shurfine, John’s Shurfine Food Store, Marden’s, McGillan Inc., Mike’s & Sons Sales & Service, Monica’s Scandinavian Imports, Nadeau’s House of Flooring, Northern Airwaves, Northern Maine Community College, Northern Prosthetics & Orthotics, Noyes Florist & Greenhouse, Overhead Door Company of Aroostook, Paterson Payroll, Percy’s Auto Sales, Pines Health Services, Pelletier Ford, Professional Home Nursing, Quigley’s Building Supply, Red River Camps, Salmon Brook Valley, Save a Lot, Sitel Corporation, St John Valley Pharmacy & Shiretown Pharmacy, The County Federal Credit Union, The County Quik Stop, The Swamp Buck, University of Maine at Fort Kent, Valley Communications Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements, unless otherwise noted, do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher, staff or advisory board. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information present in this issue is accurate, and neither Our Maine Street Magazine nor any of its staff are responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system without written permission from the publishers. FALL 2012

Photo Copyright ÂŠ 2012 Phyllis Rochford 8 FALL 2012

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Photo Copyright ÂŠ 2012 Ken Lamb northernshutter.com

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Lyndsey Maynard

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www.countyfcu.org

Milk Bottles By Ted Blanchard

Milk bottles. They were a common household item for many years. The delicious “County” dairy products were delivered to most homes up until the late 1950’s. They were delivered by horse and wagon and later by motorized vehicles. Milk was used from the bottles; bottles were cleaned and left outside for the “milkman” who swapped empty ones for full ones. If a customer wanted more or less than replacements called for, a note in the empty bottle sufficed. I can blame my sudden interest in milk bottles on my brother-in-law. He showed me his milk bottle caps one day. It seems he had collected them for years. All had the name of a dairy or dairy farmer and perhaps a logo; cow or barn. When I expressed an interest, he gave them to me. Memory does not serve as to where my first milk bottle came from or who gave me the name of Bob Carlow, a collector of milk bottles. A very helpful gentleman, he got me to enroll in “The National Association of Milk Bottle Collectors.” It was a monthly publication, and once a year a catalog listing members and their collection desires was sent. These members were listed by states. Being an avid reader, I read all the names. Several stood out, but one from San Antonio, Texas, interested me as he was listed as being interested in 14

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Aroostook County milk bottles. I wrote to him. This correspondence lasted for several years until he died. We also spoke on the telephone a few times. His enthusiasm for collecting was catching. “Watch out,” he declared, “collecting can be very contagious!” Over the years we traded a few bottles as duplicates became available. He told me his first bottle came from Fort Kent. J. D. Eagles was embossed on the quart bottle. I hunted for one for years. One never divulged its hiding place to me. When Richard died I tried to buy his collection, but his widow elected to keep it. Over the years I met many collectors and went to a couple of state meetings in Fairfield, Maine. Couples brought food and a good time was had. Milk bottles were bought, sold and traded. Let us note here the types of milk bottles. Perhaps not complete but as far as the old memory will allow, ¼ of a pint, gill, ½ pint, 1 pint, 1 quart and gallon are normal sizes. Any or all can be embossed or imprinted in the glass. Pyro glaze (pyro for short) are pictures painted and fired into the glass. Bottles can be round or square. There are cream tops which kept cream separate on top (before milk was pasteurized). A few dairies had war slogans on their bottles. My only knowledge of an Aroostook County slogan was one

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from Houlton Farms Dairy. I have one ½ pint, but it is in poor condition. It can be seen in the collection that I donated to the Fort Fairfield Historical Society located at the blockhouse in Fort Fairfield. On occasion I would find an out-of state bottle mixed in with a possible buy. I became acquainted with a gentleman from Connecticut, and we traded my out-of-state bottles for Maine ones. I never met him, but we had some interesting phone conversations. Another interesting collector was a man from Cherryfield. He collected many Maine bottles. My wife and I enjoyed being with them at state meetings and also at their home. He spent much time, effort and money getting accurate information about milk bottles. This resulted in his publishing a comprehensive catalog on Maine bottles. My hat goes off to Dave Fickett. In 2002 my collection desires waned (not stopped), and I decided to have it evaluated. There are a few Aroostook County milk bottles out there that I never got. They are so scarce that owners will not part with them. I don’t blame them, but I would like to continue my quest for them. They would be added to the collection in Fort Fairfield. Collecting was a great past time for me. At times I would hear of a bottle for sale, and my wife and I motored down state to check it out. We learned a lot about Maine and people! One day I received a call from a collector in Bass Harbor. We had never met, but I had met his father at one of the state gatherings. He questioned me about “The County” collection that I kept at home at that time. He asked what I intended to do with it. I told him I wanted to give it to the Fort Fairfield Historical Society, and he asked where Fort Fairfield was located. I told him about the center of The County as far as north and south was. Also tried to explain the east-west dimensions. He went on to explain that he had a “J. D. Eagles” bottle from Fort Kent that he wanted me to have. Of course it took me a while to get my voice back, but I finally told him that my finances were not unlimited for a bottle like that. He assured me that it was a gift from his father to me--more loss of words. When asked where he got the bottle, he went to a different subject. Next he told me that his father had a “Riverside Dairy” bottle from Fort Kent that I could have, but he had to have some dollars for it. I told him that I would get back to him. At meeting with the members of the Historical Society of Fort Fairfield, they agreed to share the cost with me on the purchase of the Riverside Dairy bottle. What a nice event when the two bottles arrived. I found out later that the gent who donated the bottles had heard of an Aroostook County bottle collection for sale in San Antonio, Texas. He flew down, bought the collection and the rest is history. And there are ninety-seven more bottles in the collection with fun and interesting stories. If you like to view the collection, please contact Edward “Ted” Blanchard 207.769.4181

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Gene Cyr, northernmainepictures.com

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Lyndsey Maynard

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Pink Aroostook Breast Cancer Support Group Provides Support for Local Women by Tamra Kilcollins

Community Relations Coordinator, Cary Medical Center Above: Bethany Zell and Georgann Carter

On April 4th, 2011, a breast biopsy done by her physician confirmed what earlier CT and MRI testing had indicated; that the mass detected on one side of her left breast was cancer. Her surgeon performed a lumpectomy on April 19th, and one month later her journey to fight and beat the cancer continued, first with chemotherapy and then radiation treatments. Her primary care physician began referring to her as the “miracle patient” because the cancer was discovered while she was being tested for an unrelated illness. On November 23, the day before Thanksgiving, her oncologist gave her the wonderful news that the surgery and treatment regimen had worked, and she was cancer free. These important dates come easy for Georgann “Anne” Carter to remember when she talks about her personal journey with breast cancer. But, what this timeline doesn’t describe is the roller coaster ride of emotional struggles, the daily mental and physical exhaustion and sickness resulting from treatments, and the fears you deal with for yourself and your family while trying to maintain some semblance of a “normal” day to day life. This single mom of two teenage daughters will tell you that “my biggest savior” in dealing with breast cancer was her positive attitude, and the constant help and support she received from her family, friends, neighbors and coworkers at the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) in Limestone. “I never dreamed that so many people really cared; 22

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people I didn’t even know,” she said. “Co-workers and people in my community brought us meals; even milkshakes from a local restaurant owner were delivered while I was going through my treatments.” Anne also has some very special new friends; women who all share a common bond and are members of the local Pink Aroostook Breast Cancer Support Group. “I love it,” Anne said referring to the Support Group. “They’re like my family and I look forward to our meetings. We share advice, insights and information that come from being in the same shoes. It’s so incredibly helpful to be able to talk to and listen to people that have been through breast cancer in one way or another. Bethany has been like a sister to me,” she said referring to Bethany Zell, Pink Aroostook’s Project Coordinator. The Pink Aroostook project began in 2011 funded through a one-year grant awarded to Cary Medical Center from the Susan G. Komen Foundation. According to Zell, project goals revolved around promoting breast cancer awareness and education, and establishing the local support group. Zell also creates personalized Pink Aroostook “Survivor Bags” filled with informational and comfort items for survivors and women currently in treatment, and provides a monthly e-newsletter with education about breast health. Although no longer available, grant monies were also originally used as part of a patient care fund to provide financial assistance for women undergoing breast

cancer treatment. The local support group meets the first and third Thursday of every month from 5 – 7 p.m. in the Cary Medical Center Chan Center. There are currently nine active support group members who have become as passionate as Zell about connecting women to resources, so much so, that six members were able to attend the American Cancer Society’s “Reach to Recovery” volunteer training in Bar Harbor in September. “Reach to Recovery” volunteers are breast cancer survivors who are available 24/7 to connect with newly diagnosed patients who need to talk about their fears and ask questions of someone who has survived breast cancer. “If I can help someone by telling my story and what I learned from my experience, that’s what I want to do,” Anne said. Some of her advice…“talk to your family so you can face the cancer together, and if you have questions, ask them even if you think they’re minor. People really do care, so take the help they offer you because there are just days when you’ll need it.” “My daughters were scared and had a hard time when I lost my hair while I was going through my treatments. And not all kids react the same; you have to help each one deal with it in their own way. My oldest daughter and her boyfriend, and my friend’s son, who’s like my own son…well, they all took part in shaving my head for me when my hair started falling out. I can’t tell you how that made me feel,” Anne continued. “Although our grant funding has essentially run out, we’re determined to keep the Pink Aroostook project going,” Zell explained. “We’ve held several fundraiser events and will re-apply to the Susan G. Komen Foundation for funding in 2013. The ladies in my support group are incredible women, and we’re so excited about having established ‘Reach to Recovery’ volunteers in Aroostook County. This area was really lacking. The American Cancer Society really tries to match survivors up by age, location, type of breast cancer and treatments they have undergone so this will provide more local resources for the women who call in to the American Cancer Society’s hotline. We will also be partnering closely with Kim Wilcox, the Breast Health Navigator at the new Women’s Imaging Center at Cary so that we can be there as a resource for women right from the time of their diagnosis if they choose.” “We are in this fight against breast cancer together,” Anne concluded. “When I lost my hair I tried several wigs and found that they just weren’t for me, so I wore beanie hats. When I was preparing for surgery to have my port put in, one of the surgical nurses heard me say I liked the beanie that she was wearing and before I knew it, she handed me 5 beanies that someone had made for her. A very dear friend of mine was recently diagnosed with cancer, so I passed my beanies on to her. Caring and sharing…that’s what it’s all about.” For more information about Pink Aroostook, and the Breast Cancer Support Group, please call Pink Aroostook Coordinator Bethany Zell at 551-4284, or visit their website page at pinkaroostook.org; or on Facebook. FALL 2012

Photo ÂŠ 2012 Ken Lamb, northernshutter.com

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BOONDOCK’s BOONDOCK’S ~ ~ GRILLE est. 2009

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182 Market Street Fort Kent, Maine 04743 Tel: 207.834.2880 Fax: 207.834.2928 www.sjvrx.com (Located in John’s Shurfine Grocery)

101 Military St Ste B Houlton, ME 04730 Tel: 207.834.2880 Fax: 207.834.2882 (Located in County Yankee Grocer)

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Gene Cyr, northernmainepictures.com

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branching out with STEM:

the science behind

Autumn splendor by Jen Brophy, Engineering Instructor MSSM

Autumn has arrived in Aroostook County! The nights are crisp, school is back in session, and the leaves are turning on The County’s eighteen million acres of forest land. With northern Maine awash in red and gold, it’s no surprise that our state holds some of the country’s best opportunities for leaf peeping. In fact, the Maine Tourism Bureau estimates that 8-10 million people visit the state each fall, and many of those visitors come specifically to see the spectacular foliage of our fifty-two species of broadleaf trees. Did you ever wonder about the science behind the phenomenon, though? Why do birches turn yellow while maples turn red and orange? The answer lies in chemistry and biology. In conjunction with cool weather and shortening days, the main players in the autumn color-change game are three types of pigment-producing chemicals: chlorophyll, carotenoids, and anthocyanins.

are warm and plants are active, chlorophyll is constantly broken down and re-synthesized. Because chlorophyll absorbs blue and red light, the abundance of chlorophyll makes leaves appear green. Carotenoids (pronounced “kuh-rot-in-oids”) are the pigments responsible for yellow autumn leaves. Carotenoids, which give color to carrots, sweet potatoes, and citrus fruits, are also present in leaves during the summer and are accessory pigments that help chlorophyll absorb sunlight. Carotenoids absorb blue-green and blue light, which makes them appear yellow or orange. During the summer, leaves with more carotenoids (such as birch and beech) appear lighter, brighter green than leaves with fewer carotenoids (such as maple). When autumn rolls around, the combination of cooler weather and longer nights signals trees to begin going dormant for the winter. Sap begins to thicken and slow, and a woody membrane begins to form at the base of each leaf stem, which slowly cuts off the supply of nutrients to the Chlorophyll (pronounced “klohr-uh-fil”) is the commonly- leaves. This causes production of chlorophyll to slow down known pigment that gives leaves their green color during and eventually stop. Because the chlorophyll is constantly the summer. It is a critical component of photosynthesis, being degraded by sunlight, it is eventually used up. The the process through which plants are able to absorb light carotenoids, which do not degrade in sunlight, are then energy and manufacture sugars for growth. It is also, allowed to show their colors. As a result, the leaves turn however, an unstable compound that degrades in sunlight; yellow and orange. therefore, during the summer months when temperatures Anthocyanins (pronounced “an-tho-sigh-uh-nins”) 28

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are responsible for red autumn leaves. Anthocyanins appear red, purple, or blue; they are the main pigments responsible for the color of several Maine treats including cranberries, blueberries, and apples. Unlike chlorophyll and carotenoids, which are present throughout the life of all leaves, anthocyanins are only formed by certain species of trees. As the woody membrane covers the base of the leaf stem and reduces nutrient exchange, the sugar content of the leaf sap increases. Anthocyanins are then formed when the excess sugar reacts with cell proteins in the presence of sunlight. Anthocyanins, which are abundant in red maples and many types of oaks, change their pigment depending on the pH of the surrounding fluid; more acidic cell sap results in red leaves, while less acidic cell sap results in purple leaves. The woody membrane that forms at the base of each leaf is also the culprit which causes the leaves to fall at the end of the season. In order to protect the tree from freezing temperatures, the membrane thickens as winter approaches. Eventually, it thickens to the point where nutrients are blocked completely, and the leaf separates from the tree. After that, it’s just a matter of gravity, wind, and rain that causes the leaf to fall. Because sunlight is one of the key factors in the degradation of chlorophyll and the formation of anthocyanins, weather greatly influences the intensity of autumn colors. Low temperatures and bright sunlight contribute to the degradation of chlorophyll, which speeds up the yellowing process. Bright sunlight, dry weather, and temperatures that stay above freezing enhance the production of anthocyanins, creating vibrant reds.

Therefore, the most spectacular autumn colors are created by sunny days followed by cool (but not freezing), dry nights, especially when preceded by a warm, wet spring and favorable summer weather. Wet or warm autumns tend to result in muted colors, and hard frosts or freezing temperatures tend to cause leaves to fall prematurely. So as you’re enjoying the autumn splendor of Aroostook County this year, stop for a moment and consider the chemical processes at work; there’s always more than meets the eye. Although color varies quite a bit, even within each species, the Maine Forest Service offers these general guidelines regarding what colors you’ll see in the foliage and which trees do they belong to: Yellow leaves can be seen on green ash, black ash, basswood, beech, birch, butternut, elm, boxelder, mountain maple, silver maple, striped maple, sugar maple, mountainash, poplar, serviceberry, willow, and witch-hazel. Red or scarlet leaves can be seen on hornbeam, red maple, mountain maple, sugar maple, black oak, red oak, scarlet oak, white oak, sumac, and tupelo. Purple leaves can be seen on white ash and witch-hazel. *The Maine School of Science and Mathematics (MSSM) is Maine’s premier immersive, residential high school offering an advanced curriculum in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), as well as the humanities. MSSM students and faculty from throughout our beautiful state are excited

to bring STEM content to Our Maine Street’s Aroostook.

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Gene Cyr, northernmainepictures.com

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A Farmer’s Wife Words and IMages by Debi A. Martin Smith I am a farmer’s wife…this has been true for almost 37 years. As a wife of a farmer, who has farmed all of those 37 years mind you, one would think I would know the crops the man grows. One would think! I should go back to the beginning. My farming husband always tilled the ground, got the rocks picked, planted the crops, maintained those crops and harvested these very same crops. I on the other hand, was busy doing “my thing,” taking care of what eventually became three children and working in the home and outside of the home. Now, these three children from the age of two were always going to parties here and there and had me running the tires off of our vehicles. So, I paid little attention to what the farmer man was doing. He was happy doing what he was doing and that is all that counted in my book. When the children became old enough to work on the farm, contrary to what they say…they 32

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were not 6 years old...they were a few years older, they all had their job to do and I was still in the house cooking, washing and working. Again, I knew there were crops being planted and harvested but did not know exactly what was going in and coming out of the ground. I was too busy making the morning snacks to take to the crew, cooking a nice big meal for lunch for my working guy and then making an afternoon treat to take back out to whatever field they might be in. I could not have taken the time to go inspect these crops being harvested. My children rode the potato planter, actually falling asleep as the planter’s seed picks would go around and around void of any seed potato going into the ground, only to be awoken by their farming father’s booming voice. He feared they’d fall off the planter, not so much the fact that there were going to be some long misses in the rows. This was many years ago now. All in all, a very good life for these three children. But,

they knew more of what was being planted than I did. There came the time that I was asked to “break down” ground, which I did willingly, still not knowing what was going into the ground. My two girls were gone off to explore a new world for themselves, and my son was old enough to operate much bigger machines on the farm. So, I had to help. Oh, I knew we planted potatoes, buckwheat, soybeans, corn, canola and oats…”stuff” like that, but I didn’t pay too much attention to what the harvested product looked like. I just did what I was asked to do, filling in when I was needed. I have mastered the skill of driving an articulating tractor pulling a HUGE implement (as I learned that these plow things were called), tearing ground up ahead of planters. I have driven 18-wheeled trucks, with all of their gears, with near perfection under the boom of a potato harvester (that should be an Olympic event) and I have been the designated “pull” tractor operator during those extremely muddy and snowy falls. I tried a few other “implements” and figured if I mastered these too, I would be asked to operate them at some point in time and I didn’t really want to do that. I mean, after all, the windrower HAD to put the potatoes in the rows and not the road for the trucks or the tractor to run over, and forget the harvester, I never wanted to learn to run that thing. But, my point is, I was involved physically but my mind wandered what other Aroostook County farmer’s wives might be doing. Certainly not doing what I was doing! (Here is where I will add that after all of these years, I did speak with other wives who were also physically involved in the business. We were a rare breed for sure.) After some time, I was no longer asked to work here and there on the family farm. Enough help had been employed so that I could do my own thing. (My own “thing” is photography and writing.) And, this fall when I decided to shoot fields of canola and of my farming husband, I went to the field where the canola was being harvested. I took pictures of the massive combine lumbering down the field picking up it’s reward. When my husband got to the end of the field, he stopped and I asked where was the canola that this huge machine had gobbled up? He pointed to the bulk truck that was sitting at the field’s edge, and the

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oldest was in the truck. I looked over and I could not see evidence of any canola being in that truck. I asked him again, “Where is the canola?” “Debi, it is right there in that truck!”, now he was perturbed at me, and I just kept looking for the canola. Now, is a good time to remind you that I never paid any particular attention to what crops were being planted and harvested, and I didn’t really know what canola looked like. I walk over to the truck, climbed up the small steel steps and looked inside the bulk body, which is painted black. It was then, I dipped my hand inside and discovered that indeed, the canola was there. Small tiny black seeds, teeny tiny black seeds. I was amazed at how small these seeds were and how black they were. How can a plant that blooms the most beautiful yellow, end up as a small teeny black seed? It was then that I decided that I would pay closer attention to what my farming husband told me, and that I would

personally inspect everything that he harvests. Much to his chagrin, I am involved again, very involved. I may not be driving trucks, digging up ground or bringing the snacks, but I am there with my camera, in my farming husband’s way. Asking all kinds of questions and being totally amazed at how much this man of mine knows about the product he plants and harvests. We no longer grow potatoes but actually grow a couple thousand acres of grains, all kinds of grains. I am learning about these wonderful grains we grow. I may be underfoot to my husband, but you can ask me what we plant, and I can tell you extensively just exactly what is coming out of the ground and where it goes. And, we both like that! Debi is a retired professional photographer who summers in Mapleton and spends her winters in Lakeland, Florida. She was Editor in Chief for The ExaminerAroostook County, a reporter for the Produce News of Jackson, NJ and a reporter/ photographer for the Presque Isle Star Herald. She and her farming husband Carl, have three adult children, and their son still works on the family farm.

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Painting Copyright ÂŠ 2012 Harriet Libby Bitar

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your opportunity Discover an exciting career or an affordable start to a four year degree...

33 EdgEmont drivE

PrEsquE islE, mE 04769

(207) 768-2785 www.nmcc.edu l

Photo ÂŠ 2012 Lyndsey Maynard

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TRACTORS - TRIMMERS - TILLERS - CHAINSAWS

545 CARIBOU ROAD FORT KENT, MAINE 04743 207-834-6310

Clifford L Rhome CPA, P.A. 34 North Street, Suite 3 Presque Isle, ME 04769 Tel: 207 764-5800 Fax; 207 764-1083 crhome@myfairpoint.net

“A Name you can trust”

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Gene Cyr, Washburn, northernmainepictures.com

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Mystery Bell the

of the

Un i v e r s i t y of M a i n e at F ort K e n t Un i v e r s i t y R e l at i on s

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For whom did the bell toll? Apparently, it sounded for generations of students at the University of Maine at Fort Kent. But from where its sound came from, and whether it was the only bell on campus that rang, depends largely upon who you ask. Was it the bell housed for more than seventy years in t h e belfry of the original Cyr Hall, located on Pleasant Street? Many people seemed to think so. Or was it a different bell, altogether? Questions abound about the origin and the original location of the bell, when speaking of La Cloche de Fer (the iron bell); symbol of a multi-million comprehensive campaign to support the University. Back in the days of Vetal Cyr -- the institution’s first principal -- students, faculty and staff were called to classes, meals, and special events by the sound of a bell -- La Cloche de Fer. The sounding of the bell was a familiar, steady, and calming presence on campus in the days when UMFK was known as the Madawaska Training School. According to A Century and a Quarter of Progress, Professor Roger Grindle’s seminal historic account of UMFK’s origins, “The catalog

and circular of the Madawaska Training School for 1888 advertised the benefits expected from the new facilities at Fort Kent.” Grindle’s reference was to the original Cyr Hall. Grindle’s account quotes Principal Cyr recommending “The school needs a LITTLE more money from the State to make the building and its surroundings comfortable and attractive.” The finishing touches called for by Cyr included painting the building inside and out, a bell tower and a bell, and grading and fencing the grounds. The state legislature responded to Cyr’s request with a special appropriation. “With this money a belfry was added. A bell was ordered, as well as a fancy weather vane for the top of the belfry,” Grindle notes. The bell rang for more than seven decades. In 1959, the original Cyr Hall had reached the end of its useful life, and the institution, now known as Fort Kent State Normal School, ordered its demolition that fall. According to the original specifications for the building’s demise, now housed within UMFK’s Acadian Archives Acadiennes, “Sealed bids for the demolition of a wooden structure known as Cyr Hall will be received in the office of the Principal of Fort Kent State Normal School on or before July 31, 1959. Bids will be opened on that date in the office of the Principal.” The specifications stated that “All materials contained within the building at the time when demolition starts shall be the property of the person doing the demolition with the following exceptions: “The bell, which will be retained by the Normal School. The person doing the demolition is expected to remove the bell from the tower and lower it to the ground.” Anecdotal accounts of the whereabouts of the bell from that point forward are rather sketchy. Locals recall hearing stories about neighborhood children playing on the bell as it sat on the lawn, near to what is today’s main entrance to campus. Concern for the bell’s well-being saw it removed from the lawn. But to where? It might have been moved to the safety of a basement in a nearby building, as some speculate. No one is certain. Years later, local contractors were connecting drainage lines from the (then) new Sport Center to the storm water main located across Pleasant Street on the main campus. Digging in the vicinity of the campus’ upper parking lot, adjacent to the Old Model School, heavy equipment operator, Gilman Babin, made a “ringing

discovery.” Babin dug up an old bell that had been buried alone, and not among with any rubble from the previously demolished Cyr or Dickey Halls. The bell was buried by itself, surrounded by gravel, Babin recalls. Was the unearthed bell the one that once rang from the belfry in the old Cyr Hall? No one knows. But if it wasn’t the Cyr Hall bell, which bell was it? Some conjecture that it even could be the bell from the belfry of the original Fort Kent schoolhouse where the very first Madawaska Training School classes were held. The excavated bell would be removed to a Sly Brook Road site on Eagle Lake, where it sat for several years. Eventually, it was obtained by Claude Dumond, former Fort Kent town manager. Dumond fabricated a yoke from a steel wagon wheel and hung the bell from a hook affixed to the yoke. The bell adorned the Dumond camp, now owned by his son, George, from the late ‘70s until last year, when it was summoned to duty once again. Today, La Cloche de Fer is asked to toll its familiar, steady, and calming tone to assist the University in providing for the education of the students in which it is entrusted. Under the title of La Cloche de Fer, UMFK has launched its first-ever comprehensive campaign in the 134year history of the University. La Cloche de Fer campaign for UMFK seeks to complete a $3 million fundraising effort in the next two years to support the following goals:

Legacy Scholarship Fund: $750,000 Academic Stewardship Fund: $750,000 Sustaining Capital Fund: $1,500,000

The goal of the campaign is to double The UMFK Foundation’s scholarship endowment, which in turn, will improve a student’s access to college, reduce a family’s reliance on loans, and provide scholarships to deserving students. La Cloche de Fer has undergone an elaborate makeover for its new role. It has been sandblasted, primed, and painted. It is not without blemishes; sporting several cracks similar to its better-known sibling, The Liberty Bell. The bell has been outfitted with a new, historically-correct yoke, a clapper, and is mounted on a cedar base. Although its days of daily ringing are gone, La Cloche de Fer tolls again. Today it tolls for the current and future students of UMFK. FALL 2012 41

Photo ÂŠ 2012 Ken Lamb, northernshutter.com

42 FALL 2012

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Gene Cyr, Washburn, northernmainepictures.com

FALL 2012

High Level Rehab

Close to Home by The Aroostook Medical Center Michael Pelletier was watching television late on the afternoon of June 29th, just as he had done many times since retiring from his job with the State of Maine earlier in the year. Suddenly, a feeling of warmth rushed to his head and his face began to tingle. Something was very wrong, and he knew immediately what was happening: he was having a stroke. “I lay down on the couch, accepted the fact that this could be it, and started praying,” he said. He immediately called 911. An ambulance responded and rushed him to the TAMC emergency department, where he had a CT scan. The physician confirmed the stroke diagnosis, and Pelletier was flown to Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC) in Bangor. Thanks to the treatment he received from the highly capable staff at TAMC and EMMC, Pelletier found himself in a position where his life was no longer in danger. But in the few short hours that had passed since his stroke, his life had changed. He was left with blurry vision and an inability to walk. His long path to regaining independence was just beginning. Pelletier was moved to the rehabilitation unit at EMMC, where the therapy staff helped him get started on his recovery. Progress was slow, and Pelletier began missing home. He was facing weeks of rehab, and his wife would either need to take time off from work or face the prospect of being with him only on weekends. He knew there had to be a better option for him, and when he asked about the possibility of continuing his rehabilitation closer to home, he received pleasant news: he could be transferred to TAMC’s Acute Inpatient Rehab Unit. “I arrived at EMMC on a Friday, and on Monday I made a request to come up to Presque Isle,” he said. “Tuesday they brought me up here. I was scared, but they immediately made me feel very comfortable. The atmosphere was really pleasant and calming, and that made me feel good.” TAMC’s Acute Inpatient Rehab Unit is the only service of its kind north of Bangor. The unit helps people recover from serious medical issues including stroke, traumatic injury, fractures, and neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis. The level of care provided at an acute inpatient rehab facility is very comprehensive. It was this 46

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level of service that Pelletier would need to get back on his feet. Upon arriving at TAMC, Pelletier met with Dr. Stephen Wood and learned that his recovery would take time. The rehab team created a plan that would shape Pelletier’s days for weeks to come, and on the Wednesday after his stroke, his rehab at TAMC began. He started out by doing some hand exercises. A few days later, with the help of his therapists and rehab equipment, he took a couple of steps, and then a few more. Soon, he was walking down the hallway with assistance. His hard work began to pay off, and under the guidance of his therapists, he gained strength every day. “I didn’t know I was making progress at first, but the therapists told me I was doing well. They kept me going,” he said. “We did therapy in the morning, and then some in the afternoon. I was determined to walk out of this place when the time arrived.” Pelletier’s rehab also included playing Nintendo Wii Golf and other video games. He used the Wii Fit balance board to improve his stability. Like all patients in the rehab unit, Pelletier benefitted from the breadth and depth of an entire team of healthcare professionals focused on rehabilitation. During his stay at TAMC, Dr. Wood, rehab specialists Dr. Anna Nikachina and Dr. Alexius Sandoval, and TAMC Acute Inpatient Rehab patient numerous therapists and and balance under the guidance of occu

nurses worked together to provide him with the help he needed to improve. According to Pelletier, the steady attention given to him by the rehab team has made a difference in his rehab. “They work as a team and it’s fantastic,” he said. “They communicate, and they know when to push me harder and when to have me slow down.” Pelletier, who has maintained a positive attitude throughout his rehab, continues to suffer from double vision, but he expects his eyes to get better over time. He can now get around with the help of a walker, and he intends to continue improving. “I can walk and talk. I can still move,” he said. “I didn’t realize that strokes were so prevalent and debilitating. I consider myself to be very fortunate.” Thanks to his hard work and some help from the TAMC rehab team, Pelletier achieved his goal of walking out of the hospital under his own power on July 27. He intends to get back to playing computer games and fishing, and he hopes to be able to hunt this fall. “I just want to get back to life,” he said.

Michael Pelletier plays Nintendo Wii Golf to regain his strength upational therapist Casey Nightingale.

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Ken Lamb, northernshutter.com

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Amanda, J. Devaney, Fort Kent

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Ken Lamb, northernshutter.com

FALL 2012

A True Christmas Story by Barbara Boucher

This true Christmas story took place 25 years ago when Earlan owned the gas station on the corner. Winter was setting in. How Barbara and Renee loved the crisp, frosty air and snow dancing like ballerinas. As they looked outside their window, they could see the tall, snow-laden evergreens, trees they had planted with their own hands as baby saplings. Now, those fragile babies were towering giants. Christmas was approaching, and the two Fort Fairfield women could barely stand the excitement of the season. All through November and early December, they bought each other small tokens for Christmas. They knew the gifts would never make it under the tree. Because they were so excited to give to one another, the gifts would be opened long before Christmas arrived. It was time to choose the tree. The women went to Earlan’s gas station in Fort Fairfield and watched the trees being unloaded from the big truck and propped up in the lot. After careful examination of all the trees, they finally picked out a beauty and brought it home. While Renee finagled the tree into its stand, Barbara gathered their boxes of ornaments, beloved even though almost all came from the dollar store. Back then, dollar store ornaments, or hand-made, were all they could afford. All was ready for the big day, the tree set up and ready for decorating. First, the lights were placed perfectly on the tree; each one positioned just so. Barbara walked back and forth, squinting critically at the tree, and made sure every light was sitting on the branches in the exact right spot. Then the strawflowers, picked in the fall and dried in the rafters, were placed gently in the tree. The ornaments, wonderful glittery baubles to catch the light came next, and finally the bright streamers of ribbons cascading down the branches. What a wonderful season it was, small tokens already given or hidden away, the festively decorated house filled with the heady aroma of wonderful homemade food, and all shared in a loving family. Nothing could be better!!! But wait, there’s more! A much-anticipated visit from Mom & Pop! Each day during the holiday season the women would drive by Earlan’s gas station, where they watched other families, the children with huge grins from ear to ear, buy their trees.

One by one the trees were purchased, flung in the backs of pickup trucks or tied to the roofs of cars, until finally there was one lone tree left. Everyday they saw that tree, day after day, standing there all by itself, waiting for someone to buy it, someone to take it home to be decorated and adorned, but nothing ever happened. No one wanted the small tree. As the day for the arrival of Mom & Pop drew closer, Renee and Barbara began joyfully cooking, baking and making ready for the visitors. Time was beginning to tell on their first tree since it had been set up a month earlier. The women thought, “Wouldn’t it be great if, when Mom & Pop arrived, a brand new tree all decorated from Earlan’s station in Fort Fairfield could be waiting for them.” Then a new idea jumped into their heads, and at the same time they turned to one another and said, “Let’s buy the sad little tree at the gas station, bring it home, and decorate it.” They decided this was a great idea, and they would use the old tree for greens and garlands. So the next day they purchased the short, fat, perfectly proportioned tree and brought it home. Magically, the little tree seemed to come alive with happiness; it was loved and would have a chance to shine brightly in a warm home. By the time they finished decorating the tree, it was the most perfect tree imaginable. The tree glowed in the window as a welcome for Mom and Pop and throughout their entire visit. Everyone fell in love with the perfect little tree. When Twelfth Night came and it was time to take down the tree, sadly they removed all the lights, ribbons, tinsel and balls and packed it all away until next year. As the tree sat there, bare again, they knew they couldn’t just throw away their wonderful friend who had given them such joy, so they decided to place the tree in the snowy garden until spring. And in the spring, as the days grew longer and the sun warmed earth and air, to their surprise they saw a tiny, inch-high, little evergreen sapling sprouting from the ground. It seemed the tree had still one gift left to give.

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Gene Cyr, Washburn, northernmainepictures.com

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Gene Cyr, Washburn, northernmainepictures.com

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the county

My Second

HOME by Lindsey Cochran

I was not born and raised in The County. In fact, I’m not sure I ever crossed its borders until the summer of 2002. But even still, this vast stretch of rolling hills and farmland has permanently etched a place in my heart. Ever since that first trip, there has always been something about Aroostook that feels just like coming home. Of course, I’m not exactly a city girl and there’s a very good reason why The County feels so homey. I hail from the coast of Maine often referred to as Downeast. Much of our ways of life are comparable to the more northern parts of the state. The pace is slow, much slower than even the Central region where I now make my home. I spent much of my childhood taking family camping trips, fishing, swimming, and playing for hours in the woods around our very rural home. I would certainly consider the area I grew up as being wholesome, and I adore all of my childhood memories of growing up in the country. But even being home in Downeast doesn’t always hold the same appeal for me as a trip to The County. Many of the details of that first trip north are somewhat faded, but the important ones remain. I was taking a day trip with my friend Becca, who had decided to make a college switch and attend the University of Maine at Presque Isle. The trip was lovely, full of talk and laughter and pieces of my home state I was excited to see for the first time. And on that trip I completely fell in love with the areas around Presque Isle. I loved the little towns that we drove through, rows of houses with manicured lawns, not too close together but also not too far apart. I loved the countryside and the “ruralness” of it all! Even the college town of Presque Isle, although home to many chain restaurants and a mall, didn’t feel too large or crowded. We Maine girls like our space! There is something about the towns in Aroostook County that make you feel like you could be in the middle of the midwest. Those places you see depicted in the movies where everyone knows everyone, and life is just all around wholesome. Most of these northern towns really are like that, 58

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except instead of flat fields, corn and high school football, potato blossoms are the plant of choice, everyone goes nuts for basketball and flat ground isn’t something easily found. And while I always considered Downeast to be particularly slow paced, I feel like things slow down even more once you cross that County line. The Maine way of life is still going strong. The fast growth of cities and towns hasn’t yet affected many places north of Bangor. As I get older and think more about raising a family myself, I understand the importance of this even more. How truly blessed we are to have areas like Downeast and Aroostook where things can still be simple. Of course the landscape itself is also a huge reason I totally fell in love with Aroostook. Everything feels so much grander there. The trees look bigger, the hills are wider, even the sky itself looks like it’s breathing easier with so much space to fill. As many nights as I’ve enjoyed watching the stars from the lake at home, up in The County, it feels as though I’m almost able to touch them. The seasons are even more spectacular because you can literally see for miles around you, taking in the color of the leaves in fall and the vast miles of green in the spring and summer. Even the long, cold Maine winters are a thing of beauty when you see sparkling snow stretching all the way to the horizon. It’s been 10 years since Becca made her move. Throughout my visits during those years I’ve acquired a circle of friends it feels like I’ve known all my life. I have a lot of great memories from our college years. Memories of all the best The County has to offer, lovely lake camps, bonfires, and country fairs. Even as an adult, my dear friend has made this beautiful piece of Maine her home. She lives in Caribou in a house with a beautiful Aroostook view, is married and raising a baby boy I absolutely adore. And although it’s sometimes sad to have her hours away, I’m glad she has found her place and that I forever have a reason to make the journey north. My trips to The County don’t always happen as often as I like, but every time they do, I know I’m home.

Photo ÂŠ 2012 Gene Cyr, Washburn, northernmainepictures.com

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Ken Lamb, northernshutter.com

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Brambleberry Market Hi, my name is Debbie Sutherland. For many years, my dream has always been to have my own business. For the last 30 years, I have worked as an administrative assistant. I always used to tell my friends that “my work got in the way of my creativity.” It is quite refreshing to be able to use that bottled up creativity, after so many years. I enjoy working with colors and textures, and arranging different items into small vignettes. I have also always had a passion for doing floral arrangements. Whatever project I have worked on, it was always exciting to see the finished project.

Can you give us a brief history of your business? When was it established and by whom? Brambleberry Market opened December 15th, FALL 2012

2010. This business is co-owned by my husband Kendall Sutherland and me. When did you get involved with the business? I took an entrepreneur class, called “The Basics of Starting a Business” with Women, Work & Community during the Spring of 2010. I was fortunate enough to have some one-on-one time with Erica Quin-Easter, Microenterprise Coordinator. From that one-on-one time, I discovered that it might be possible to open a business. The most helpful part of the class, was interviewing other business owners and asking questions about how they did it, and what to expect. From all the accumulated answers, I felt like I could probably run a sustainable business. I was willing to put in the time and work, and knew what I was

getting into, before I got into it. I also took a “Financing Please provide us with your hours of operation, address Your Future” class with Suzanne Senechal-Jandreau of and contact information. Women, Work & Community. I found both of these Brambleberry Market is open from Tuesday to classes very helpful, and less fearful, of the prospect of Friday – 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 starting my own business. A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Our address is 25 Sweden Street in Caribou (formally in the old Radio Shack). Our telephone Tell us about the products and/or is (207) 498-8000 and email is brambleberrymarket@ services your business provides. myfairpoint.net. Brambleberry Market is a gift shop that sells Country, Primitive & Inspirational gifts, as well as Home Is there anything else you would Décor items. We sell beautiful prints, clocks, tinware, like readers to know about your business? candles, crumbles (tarts), Wind & Willow products (dip, We are now on Facebook. Please find us and cheeseball & dessert mixes), primitive wood birdhouses, “Like” our page. We usually put up-to-date information wood shelves, cabinets, Willow Tree angels & figurines, and pictures of what may have “Just Arrived” and we also Old Village Paint, jewelry, greeting cards, calendars, tin notify our customers of what we are sampling from our signs, wreaths, silk floral arrangements, Christian Books, Wind and Willow products on “Sample Saturday.” Best Bibles, rosaries, First Communion & Confirmation gifts. of all, we surprise our Facebook customers with a one-day Our store offers our customers free gift wrapping or gift sale, that only they would know about, if they followed us. bagging. We also offer a wedding registery for our new brides. This makes the process of gift buying a snap, especially for today’s busy working women. For any of our customers, we offer a “Wish List.” Customers can come in the store and fill out a card by writing down what items they would like to have. The card is filed, and when family members come in to shop for them, it makes the whole shopping experience so much easier, especially on men, who don’t know what to get their wives. On Saturday, we sample something out of our Wind & Willow products at the store. This gives our customers a chance to try it before they buy. Currently, we select and feature a local Artisan of the Month. An artisan gets a chance to display their products and sell them, less a small commission fee. This gets the artisan’s name out there, and allows them to get some additional orders after their month of display time is up. We wanted a way to recognize our talented Aroostook County artisans. What sets you apart from your competition? We sell some unique products, possibly something that you don’t normally see at other stores around this area. We try to make our customer’s one-stop shopping experience a good one. We play easy listening music in our store, and try our hardest to provide today’s busy working women with a great gift giving solution. We know how busy and stressed a woman can be, trying to do everything on their list, and often shopping on their lunch hours. How many people are involved in your business? Currently, I am the only person working full-time in our store. We are hoping to add a part-time person in the near future. I have over twenty years of floral experience. In the past, I have worked at Phil’s Florist in Caribou. I very much enjoy working with silk flowers, and I especially enjoy doing custom floral work. I ask my customers to bring in a paint chip, pillow cover, or swatch of material. A special silk wreath or arrangement can be done up to match a room perfectly in their home. FALL 2012

Photo ÂŠ 2012 Ken Lamb, northernshutter.com

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Maine’s Platinum Trollbeads Dealer Clogs, Jewelry, Table Linens, Swedish Specialty Foods Scandinavian Sweaters, Crystal, Dinnerware, Bridal Registry www.monicasimports.com 176 Sweden Street, Caribou, Me 04736 Tel / Fax: (207) 493-4600

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FALL 2012

Pines Team Rescues Newborn Fawn by Debbie Leighton

On Wednesday, July 18, 2012, a newborn fawn showed up at my window here at Pines Loring Health Center. Shocked, I went outside to see if Mama was anywhere to be found. As I did, the fawn followed me everywhere. A little scared of the situation, I went back inside to get Tanya Clark so she could see what I was seeing. We went back outside and the fawn followed us for a while; then decided to find a corner by the building and rest. We decided to call the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. We were advised to leave the fawn alone and just give him water. They said that Mama would probably be back sometime that night to retrieve him when all was quiet. So we gave him water and checked on him the rest of the day. We also called Art Howell, a wildlife rehabilitator from Amity, Maine, for advice. Art takes in orphaned animals. I had to leave a voicemail. All I did was worry and cry that evening and night. I wanted to come back and check on the fawn but decided not to in case Mama did come back. I didn’t want to scare her if she was here when I arrived. 66

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The next day when I arrived for work, I looked in the corner and Jasper was still there. Yes, we named our new addition to the Loring family Jasper Charles Loring (aka JC). I called Art Howell again and left another voicemail. As the morning went by, Jasper decided to wander off to the back of the building. As I went to the back offices, I noticed a doe standing in the field. I was so relieved to see her. Jasper was safe and with his Mama! In the meantime, Art’s associate Wendy Stevens, a wildlife rehabilitator from Springfield, Maine, called and advised that if Jasper did return to call her and she would come and get him. Wendy said if Mama did not come back to get him that she was probably not going to, and he needed help to survive. Well, Jasper did return to us at lunch time. We called Wendy and made arrangements for her to come and get him. Per Wendy’s request we put Jasper in the office. Our very own Dottie Hutchins volunteered to take Jasper to Houlton to meet Wendy. Jasper took to Wendy right off and received a bottle from her.

The next day, Wendy called me with an update on Jasper. He drank 26 ounces of formula and did well through the night. A few hours later, Wendy called again to inform me that Jasper was not a “he” but a “she.” Well, that changes everything. So, we decided to change the name to Jasmine Charlotte Loring — still JC for short. On Monday, July 23, 2012, JC had her first visit with the veterinarian. She received a clean bill of health. It was determined she was probably 24 hours old when she wandered into our lives. The vet has no idea why JC was left alone, but that we definitely did the right thing in contacting Wendy to start her on her way to a safe and healthy life. Our experience with JC has been educational as well as life changing. I know life isn’t easy, but seeing it through another set of eyes is very humbling. Mother Nature works in mysterious ways, and we all know the saying, “Don’t fool with Mother Nature.” But, Mother Nature can be cruel sometimes, and in this case I had no problem messing with her!

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Dave Labbe

Owner & Sales Rep.

189 West Main Street Fort Kent, Maine 04743 Phone: (207) 834-7113 Home: (207) 834-5514

Haunted Woods Walk October 19 & 20 Aroostook State Park 6:00-9:00 p.m.

Holiday Light Parade December 1

Main Street - 7:00 p.m.

Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce centralaroostookchamber.com 207-764-6561 l

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Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency by Professional Home Nursing Alpha–1 Antitrypsin deficiency means you have a low level of a protein called Alpha–1 Antitrypsin (AAT). A deficiency could lead to lung and/or liver disease. Alpha–1 Antitrypsin protein builds up in the liver and is unable to be released into the blood. This causes low levels of AAT in the blood, which is then unable to protect the lungs from injury. In turn this could cause emphysema to occur leading to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Approximately 1 in 2,500 people in the United States have Alpha–1, but as many as 90 percent are undiagnosed. Alpha–1 Antitrypsin deficiency is hereditary and is one of the most common metabolic disorders, which can lead to serious liver disease in neonates, young children and some adults, or serious lung disease in adults. Alpha–1 is passed on from generation to generation. In order to be classified as having Alpha–1, a person must inherit two abnormal AAT genes, one from each parent. A person with one abnormal AAT gene and one normal AAT gene is called “carries.” Diagnosing Alpha–1 can be done with a simple blood test. Who should be tested for Alpha–1 Antitrypsin deficiency? It is recommended by American Thoracic Society and European Respiratory Society that the following diagnoses be tested for Alpha–1: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, early onset of emphysema (diagnosed at age 45 or earlier), liver diseases with unknown causes, bronchiectasis (in adults), asthma that does not respond to traditional treatment, emphysema with a prominent worsening disease at the bases of the lungs, recurrent pneumonia or bronchitis, unexplained panniculitis (skin disorder), family history of Alpha–1, family history of emphysema, bronchiectasis, liver disease or panniculitis, chronic asthma in adolescents and adults. What are the symptoms? Unfortunately Alpha–1 is often not discovered until there has been significant tissue damage or until the patient has been diagnosed with emphysema, COPD or treatment – resistance asthma for several years.

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Some on the most common signs of Alpha-1 include but not limited to: Lungs – Shortness of breath, recurring respiratory infections or chest colds; Cough with or without mucus; Wheezing; Eyes and skin turning yellow (jaundice); Non-responsive asthma or year round allergies; Decrease exercise tolerance; Increase supplement oxygen needs; Year-round allergies Liver – Abdominal swelling and/or leg swelling; Jaundice of eyes and skin; Unexplained liver problems and/or elevated liver enzymes; Dark urine; Pain or tenderness to upper right abdomen How to treat Alpha–1 Antitrypsin Although treatment cannot repair damage that has already happened, it can help increase the low levels of AAT in the blood and lungs and may even slow down the development of symptoms and additional lung damage. Most of the medications are the same that are used to treat COPD: Bronchodialators (to open your breathing airways) Corticosteroids (to reduce inflammation) Antibiotics (to fight infections) Supplement oxygen Augmentation therapy (Alpha–1 proteinase inhibitor infusion) Lung transplant (may be considered in advanced cases) If you have any concerns or questions related to Alpha–1, follow up with your primary care physician for possible test of the disease.

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Canterbury Royale’s Story Award-winning Canterbury Royale, open year-round – A touch of old-world Europe in The County. Upon the entrance to Canterbury Royale, one is first greeted by an evergreen lined driveway, opening upon a gingerbread cottage manicured with a gardener’s green thumb. It is a replica of a little cottage in the French Alps. Once inside, visitors are whisked into a Victorian/ Edwardian world, surrounded by ornate carvings, antique silver and décor from an era gone by. In the hand-carved dining room, one is under the observance and keeping company with the likes of Shakespeare, Venus de Milo and Michelangelo’s David. But wait there is more – the Food!!!! Ah, the food, Roasted Cherry Squab on Cress, Pan-Roasted Lobster fired with Cognac, Filet Mignon and Prime rib that King Lear himself would nod approval. The French-trained Chefs, Barbara Boucher and Renee O’Neill, are the creators 72

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of the magnificent feasts put on nightly for their patrons. Canterbury Royale is celebrating its ten years in operation, and not just surviving – Canterbury Royale is thriving here in The County. Canterbury Royale offers nightly seven-course, French Haute cuisine dinners, brunches, and teas. Our bakery is open on Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., with offerings of the finely baked breads and pastries such as those offered from their evening pastry cart. Also this year, the creation of new two-potato products; potato and meat pie and a decadent golden mashed potato which at present meetings are being set-up and held with distributors and manufacturers throughout Maine, Canada and California.

(Attributes) 2012 Featured article in the Bangor Daily News “Style” section 2011 Chosen one of the 50 best restaurants in the state of Maine by Maine Plate. 2011 “Best of New England,” Boston Magazine, Spring 2010 “Best of New England,” Boston Magazine, Fall 2009 Bob, Sheri, Lamar & Tony Garcia of the “Bob & Sheri” nationally syndicated Radio Show 2009 Yankee Magazine, Editors’ Choice, Best of New England Edition 2008 Boston Sunday Globe (Travel) 2007 Down East Magazine 2007 Feature Maine Public Television “Out of the Way Gourmet” 2006 Yankee Magazine Travel Guide, Editors’ Choice 2006 Feature article Bangor Daily News (Lifestyle & Arts) Canterbury Royale Gourmet Dining Room 182 Sam Everett Road Fort Fairfield, ME 04742 207.472.4910

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Homecoming 2012

A free barbecue sponsored by NMCC’s Student Senate drew a wide range of students, alumni, employees and community members. Folks from across generations enjoyed the food and music during the event that kicked off two days of activities during NMCC’s Homecoming on September 6 & 7. Music by Tim the Tune Man added to the festive atmosphere at the Homecoming barbecue.

Students from NMCC’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa held a fundraiser during Homecoming for their ‘Connect to Complete’ efforts, a program PTK initiated last year in conjunction with the Academic Success Center to build connections between students and their peers and between students and faculty in order to help students succeed.

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NMCC Alumni & Campus Celebrate Homecoming

The mood on the Northern Maine Community College campus was festive during Homecoming on September 6 & 7. “Homecoming was identified right away as one of the first activities we wanted to take on when the NMCC Alumni & Friends Organization was created three years ago,” said Cindy Albert ‘84, who has helped coordinate each of the Homecomings held at the college over the past three years. “It’s a great way to draw alumni and community members to campus, as well as to provide some fun activities for our current students.” On Thursday, September 7, alumni, campus and community members were invited to a free barbecue dinner sponsored by the NMCC Student Senate. From young to old, all had the opportunity to enjoy a great meal while listening to music provided by DJ Tim the Tune Man. Many stayed after dinner to take part in or to watch a softball game between a team of NMCC alumni and employees who faced off against a team of NMCC students. Although the team handily defeated the students, the students got the last laugh as they easily walked away from the field, while many on the winning team were groaning and limping. Rounding out the first night of Homecoming was a great performance by Dan Rooney and the Revolvers. Thanks to the sponsorship of NMCC’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter, all were welcome to enjoy the show at no cost. Homecoming concluded on Friday night, September 7, with the annual meeting of the NMCC Alumni & Friends Organization, followed by an alumni reception and dinner. During the annual meeting, three members were reelected for new three-year terms and four new members were elected to the board. Newly-elected members are: Jocelyn Marquis, Jonathan Post and Jodi Tash, all of Presque Isle, and Nikki Bennick of New Limerick. Officers were also elected for the upcoming year: Mike Thibodeau of Presque Isle, president; Heidi Graham of Mapleton, vice president; Gisele MacDonald of Caribou, treasurer; Tomi Henderson of Mars Hill, treasurer; and Scott Carlin of Presque Isle, immediate past president. Approximately 60 alumni and friends of the College gathered for the reception and dinner. NMCC President Tim Crowley detailed changes in personnel and some exciting projects on campus. A new biomass boiler goes on-line this fall that is capable of burning both wood and grass pellets; it will save the College substantial dollars, while being more economically friendly and supporting the local economy. He also shared the design for the new wellness and student center project that will bring changes to the College, both in terms of physical appearance and in the well-being of the campus community.

Jonathan Post, who graduated from NMCC’s nursing program earlier this year, spoke to the group about how students and alumni can and do make a difference. “I’ve seen people give a lot of themselves and their time, and it’s contagious. It really is,” said Post. “It’s all about relationships and supporting each other.” As an example, he spoke of the Connect to Complete program which he and other students in Phi Theta Kappa initiated last year. As a result of their efforts, the group earned several regional and international awards and was named one of the top 100 PTK chapters globally. “What PTK did, working together toward a common goal, is what the alumni board does. When people give of their time and work together, great things can be accomplished.” Judy Hilton of Presque Isle, a 1976 graduate who worked at the College for nearly 30 years before retiring in 2002, was presented the Torchbearer Award for how much she has done both for the College, for the alumni association she served on in the 1980s and for the new alumni group, for which she is one of the founding board members. Jennifer Graham of Fort Kent, who teaches English at NMCC, was also honored as NMCC’s 2012 Instructor of the Year. She was selected for the honor by students earlier this year. Lastly, the mantle of leadership was passed from Scott Carlin to Michael Thibodeau, who will serve as the new president of the organization. Thibodeau told the group that he wants to continue to build on the momentum established by Scott and detailed some of the goals for the organization under his tenure. He noted that the board wants to continue to explore ways to connect with alumni, to hold more regional meetings, to create a strategic plan to guide longer ranging goals, and to continue to grow Homecoming weekend. “Having graduated in the Class of 77 of NMVTI, I’m proud to be an alumnus of this fine institution, and I’m continually in awe of how the College has evolved over the past 35 years. When you compare the campus infrastructure, technology, and program offerings now versus then, it’s amazing the strides that have been made on campus. That said, at its core, for more than 50 years, NMCC has remained true to its mission, to provide students with the opportunity to realize their dream of an affordable education to enable them to be successful in their respective fields of endeavor,” said Thibodeau. “We all share the same goal of ensuring the future of our fine institution as an enabling force to meet the workforce demands for future generations.” Members of the executive committee of the NMCC Alumni & Friends Organization Board are, seated from left: Scott Carlin ‘80, immediate past president; Michael Thibodeau ‘77, president; Heidi Graham ‘84, vice president; Gisele MacDonald ‘84, treasurer; Tomi Henderson ‘74 & ‘98, secretary; and Mark Bouchard ‘80, member at large. Other board members at the dinner included, standing from left: Jonathan Post ‘12, Nikki Bennick ‘12, Dennis Albert ‘76, Janet Kelle ‘84, Wendy Bradstreet ‘92, Cindy Albert ‘84, Judy Hilton ‘75, Mary Michaud ‘96, Sylvia Forte ‘81 & ‘89, Jocelyn Marquis ‘05 and Jodi Tash ‘11.

Tom Richard ‘84 is up to bat, while Dave Guerrette ‘73 serves as catcher and umpire and other NMCC alumni and employees prepare to play during the Homecoming softball game.

RIGHT: Win or lose, fun was had by all who took part in the alumni/employee versus student softball game, including the spectators cheering from the stands.

Local band Dan Rooney and the Revolvers put on an outstanding peformance during the first night of NMCC’s Homecoming 2012.

President Crowley reveals the design for the new wellness center.

From left, Mike Thibodeau, new president of the NMCC Alumni & Friends Organization, congratulates the three individuals honored during this year’s annual alumni dinner: Jen Graham, NMCC Instructor of the Year; Judy Hilton, recipient of the Torchbearer Award; and Scott Carlin, president of the alumni board for the past two years.

Healthy You:

Stay Well With Animals by Kim Jones, Cary Medical Center

In loving memory of Edwina LeVasseur pictured here with Willie.

When my grandmother passed away unexpectedly earlier this year one source of comfort came from our family’s pets, including the plump rusty orange cat named Willie that my Gram adopted as a kitten. There has been something therapeutic about being near the animal that had been my Gram’s constant companion. He has provided us a tangible and meaningful way to continue to feel connected to her. But pet ownership can do more than brighten up a bad day. Numerous well-documented studies have shown that the human-animal bond can improve physical, psychological, and social well-being. Physical Well-being One of the most dramatic health benefits of having a pet has been demonstrated through several studies on cardiovascular disease. The National Institute of Health followed 421 adults who had suffered a heart attack and found that, one year later, dog owners had a significantly better survival rate regardless of the severity of the heart attack. And a 20-year study found that people who had never had a pet were 40 percent more likely to die of a heart attack than those who had.1 According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is strong evidence that having a pet companion can decrease blood pressure, 78

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cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. “Some of these health benefits can be attributed to the pet owner’s lifestyle,” said Dr. Piper of Pines Health Services. “Generally speaking, people with a pet are more active. They walk their dog or play with their cat. This physical activity can certainly contribute to better health and, in particular, significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.” There are, however, several other factors that also appear to impact a pet owner’s wellness: Cat owners tend to have fewer strokes than people who don’t own cats. Researchers aren’t sure why yet, but there is speculation that owning a pet can improve a person’s circulation. A growing number of studies have suggested that children who grow up with a pet in the home are less likely to have allergies, asthma, or eczema, and have higher levels of the chemicals that indicate a stronger immune system. This suggests that exposure at a young age to the inevitable dirt and allergens associated with owning a pet builds a resistance to the triggers that can cause allergy-related problems in the future. 2 A study conducted by the National Institute of Health found that pet owners typically have lower heart rates and recover faster from stressful situations. There is

significant data that shows pets, especially cats, help ease stress and thereby reduce the risk of stress-related illness, including stroke. Research presented at the International Conference on Human/Animal Interactions found that, based on surveys from more than 11,000 people over a five-year period, pet owners made 15 – 20 percent fewer annual visits to the doctor because they experienced overall better health.

for people who are shy, uncomfortable in public settings, or who have mental or physical conditions that otherwise limit their social skills. Additionally, there is profound evidence that interacting with animals directly, even when no other people are around, is a socially fulfilling experience. In one study from researchers in the United Kingdom, 87 percent of 50 – 60 year old women with breast cancer reported that their pet filled at least one important role in the social 3 support needed for their recovery.6 Numerous other studies have shown that people at a higher risk for feeling isolated, Psychological Well-being including older adults and people who live alone, feel a Like Willie, pets often serve as an important source much stronger sense of companionship and belonging of emotional support. For years, therapists have ‘prescribed when they have a pet to ‘talk’ to. pets’ to help people cope with and overcome mental health issues. “Pets have a soothing effect,” said Dr. Piper. “They Stay Well With Animals…Any Animals can reduce anxiety, ease depression, and improve attitude Interestingly, it doesn’t seem to matter if the animal just by their mere presence.” Without even realizing it, a you interact with has fur, feathers, gills, or scales – any person’s body physically reacts to interactions with animals. animal has the potential to improve your wellness according Playing, petting, snuggling, walking, or even just watching to reports from organizations such as the National Institute an animal elevates levels of serotonin and dopamine – the of Health, British Medical Journal, WebMD, and the nerve transmitters that are known to have pleasurable and Center for Disease Control. The greatest benefit is generally calming properties –and cortisol, the hormone associated derived from one’s own pet with which there is a personal with stress, is lowered.4 This natural response is one attachment. When choosing a pet, however, it is important explanation as to why pet owners tend to be happier people. to consider your lifestyle, needs, and ability to care for the A series of studies by psychologists at Miami University animal. If you are looking for a high energy exercise buddy, concluded that people who regularly interact with animals consider a greyhound or border collie. If you need a low have greater self-esteem, are more physically fit, less lonely, maintenance companion, rescue a cat from the shelter. more conscientious, less fearful, and overall fared better in If you want to create a low-stress environment, get a fish terms of well-being outcomes on several dimensions.5 tank. If lack of space is an issue at your home, a gerbil or More and more, research is helping us better bird may be just what you need. Whatever you choose, understand the psychological benefits of pet ownership. be a responsible pet owner! Any of the wellness benefits Animal-assisted therapies are emerging as a highly you stand to gain from having an animal in your life will effective ways to treat mental health issues. Research has be diminished if you don’t interact with it appropriately. demonstrated that children with autism show immediate (Chaining a dog up in the backyard and showing it no love improvement in behavior, Alzheimer’s patients appear more or attention is NOT a helpful or healthful relationship for relaxed and are less likely to wander or show aggression, you or the animal!) and people with life-threatening diseases such as AIDS and So when you’re looking for ways to improve your cancer are far less likely to suffer from depression as a result wellness, consider bringing an animal into your life. Not of pet therapy. only could there be physical, psychological, and social gains, but there is very likely going to be a good dose of Social Well-being unconditional love coming your way…and who wouldn’t An often overlooked component of health is social want that? well-being. It’s widely believed in the medical community Oh, yes, and as for Willie, he now resides at my that factors such as loneliness and isolation wreak havoc on parents’ house and has easily adapted to his new home, a person’s mental and physical state. In a series of studies although I have no doubt that he, like the rest of our family, published by the American Psychological Association, misses Gram deeply. surveys were used to measure pet and non-pet owners’ personality type, attachment style, and feelings of belonging. Regardless of the person’s age, income, or education level, pet owners repeatedly emerged as having a great sense of meaningful existence, more confidence, handled rejection Sources: better, and were overall more content.5 WebMD1, 2 “Pets are a great conversation starter. When an Six Wise.com3, 6 animal is nearby, there is the natural tendency to pay American Psychological Association4, 5 attention to it, talk about it, and interact with it,” said Dr. ScienceDaily (July 11, 2011) Piper. “Just walking in the park or down the street with a NPR.org (Pet Therapy, March 2012) dog can greatly increase your socialization opportunities.” This type of engagement with others is especially beneficial FALL 2012

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Photo ÂŠ 2012 Pete Bowmaster

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