Aroostook Outdoor News: 5.21.15 edition

42 #ThingsToDo #Outdoors in (or near) #Aroostook in the next 38 days. How many can you do?

In this edition: 1) An Owl Prowl in Caribou. 2) A nighttime glow run in Presque Isle. 3) A color run and kite festival just across the border in New Brunswick. Plus lots more! offugo...

*Thursday, May 21

River Valley Runners Fun Run, Woodstock, NB

Have fun and share the joy of running! 7:00 p.m. (Atlantic) at Woodstock Farm & Craft Market, 220 King Street. Distance: 5k. Pace: Easy. Visit www.facebook.com/groups/rvrunnersnb FMI

Thursday, May 21

Caribou Rec./Healthy You Owl Prowl & Night Sounds Field Trip, Caribou

With audio enhancement tools, explore a local forest. Meet at Caribou Wellness Center at 6:45 p.m. Open to all ages. Rain or shine. Cost: FREE! Includes transportation, free bird call. Bring flashlight; expect moderate walking. Contact Neal Sleeper (207-493-4224) or sleeper@cariboumaine.org FMI

Friday, May 22
PI Reg. Career & Tech. Center SkillsUSA Nationals Glow 5k, Presque Isle

Registration: 8:00 p.m. at PI Middle School. Race start: 8:30. There will be refreshments along the way. Come ready to have lots of fun and bring plenty of glow sticks and glow in the dark gear! Cost: $20/adult; $10/youth (17 and under). Contact Amy White whitea@sad1.org FMI

*Saturday, May 23

2nd Annual Woodstock High School Rainbow Fun Run, Woodstock, NB
5k Rainbow Run/Walk, Kids’ Rainbow Run, fun children's games. Registration: 9:00 a.m. Run start: 10:30 a.m. Cost: $10/adult, $5/youth 6-12, FREE/youth 5 & under. Proceeds benefit Relay For Life. Contact Woodstock High School (506-325-4437) FMI

Saturday, May 23

PI Historical Society Guided Historic Downtown Walking Tour, Presque Isle

10:00 a.m.-Noon. This guided two-mile tour begins and ends at the 1875 Vera Estey House Museum, 16 Third Street, and covers over 30 historic sites and individuals. Fee: FREE; $2 donation suggested. Contact Kim Smith (207-762-1151) or visit www.pihistory.org FMI

*Sunday, May 24

8th Annual South Knowlesville Kite Festival, South Knowlesville, NB
12:00-4:00 p.m. in the hay field at 111 Simms Road. Make and fly kites and eat wood-fired pizza provided by Speerville Flour Mill as a fundraiser for Knowlesville Art and Nature Centre. Cost: FREE! Contact Leland (506-375-8623) FMI

*Thursday, May 28

Gathering of the Scots Festival Scottish Athletics Skills Workshop, Perth-Andover, NB

5:30 p.m. (Atlantic) at Veteran’s Field, Perth. Open to all! Try stone toss, hammer throw, weight for height, caber toss. Supervised by professional instructors. “Com’on, dunna’ be a-frade...come and be Scottish for the weekend!” Contact Dirk Bishop at (506-273-3102) FMI

Friday, May 29

Woodie Wheaton Land Trust Seminar: Wild Brook Trout, Forest City

Retired Maine fisheries biologist discusses genetic sampling of wild brook trout, stream surveys, habitat restoration, standardization of fishing regulations, renewal of hatchery stock. 7:30-9:00 p.m. at WWLT Center. Contact Patty Michaud (207-448‐3250) or pattywwlt@gmail.com FMI

Saturday, May 30

Woodie Wheaton Land Trust Booming Out Ground Bird Watching, Forest City

Join naturalist Marion Bates as we look for migrating and nesting warblers, rare Black-Backed woodpeckers, and Scarlet Tanagers. 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at WWLT Center. Bring lunch. Contact Patty Michaud (207-448‐3250) or pattywwlt@gmail.com FMI

Saturday, May 30

CompetitorME Rachael's Run 5k Run/Walk, Presque Isle

This is not a race; proceeds support Rachael Frinder Gagnon's medical bills and Little Pink Houses of Hope. Registration: 8:00 a.m. at UMPI’s Gentile Hall. Run start: 9:00 a.m. First 50 registrants get a t-shirt. Visit www.runsignup.com/Race/CT/Marlborough/RachaelsRun FMI

Saturday, May 30

The County Walk Towards a Cure, Island Falls

9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. 4k Walk/5k Run fundraiser to benefit Sarah’s House of Maine and Bridge to Hope, Houlton. Contact Ruth Frasier ifrec@fairpoint.net FMI

*Saturday, May 30

Central Aroostook Humane Society Paws For The Cause Walk, Presque Isle

Registration: 10:00 a.m. at CAHS, 26 Cross Street. 2-mile walk start: 10:30 a.m. Rain or shine. Cost: $5 for those without pledges; includes refreshments, dog wash, prizes. Rabies Clinic: 11:00 a.m.; $10 fee. Contact Gloria Towle (207-551-6966) or gloriatowle@gamail.com FMI

Saturday, May 30

Malcolm Science Center Spring Open House, Easton

11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Join us for hands-on science activities, planetarium shows, model rocket launches, and University of Maine ocean touch tank demonstration. Contact Malcolm Science Center (207-488-5451) or info@francismalcolmsciencecenter.com FMI

*Saturday, May 30

Gathering of the Scots Festival Falconry Demonstration, Perth-Andover, NB

For the first time in New Brunswick, the GOS Highland Games is offering a birds of prey flight demonstration in addition to traditional Highland activities. Show times: 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. (Atlantic) at Festival Grounds, Perth. Open to all! Contact Dirk Bishop at (506-273-3102) FMI

*Saturday, May 30

Micmac Service Unit Bicycle Safety Rodeo, Presque Isle

1:00 p.m. at 8 Northern Road. For school-aged children; bicyclist safety course, bike safety checks, free helmets for kids that do not own a helmet. Contact Micmac Service Unit (207-764-7219) FMI

*Saturday, May 30

Meduxnekeag River Association Warbler Workshop, Woodstock, NB

1:00 p.m. (Atlantic time) at L.P. Fisher Public Library. Birder Grant Milroy will present images and vocalizations of the 23 different species of warbler known to breed in NB. Contact Meduxnekeag River Association (506-328-8227) or meduxnekeag@nb.aibn.com or visit www.meduxnekeag.org FMI

Sunday, May 31

12th Annual Alzheimer Society of NB Walk for Memories, Woodstock, NB

Join families and friends across New Brunswick and walk with a purpose!    Registration: Noon at Riverside Court. Walk start: 1:00 p.m. (all times Atlantic). Contact Alzheimer Society of NB (800-664-8411) or info@alzheimernb.ca FMI

Saturday, June 6

Northern Maine Bird Festival, Limestone

6:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge. Features: guided bird walks, netting and banding demonstrations, hands-on activities for kids, plus a special Birds Acre presentation, "Owls of Maine" at 11:00 a.m. Cost: FREE! Contact Bill Sheehan thearoostookbirders@gmail.com FMI

*Saturday, June 6

Meduxnekeag River Association Bird Walk, Woodstock, NB

9:00 a.m. (Atlantic time) at Meduxnekeag Valley Nature Preserve at Wilson Mountain, 260 Red Bridge Rd. 35 species identified last year including a close encounter with a Barred Owl. Contact Meduxnekeag River Association (506-328-8227) or meduxnekeag@nb.aibn.com or visit www.meduxnekeag.org FMI

    

Saturday, June 6

Plaster Rock Bicycle Rodeo, Plaster Rock, NB

10:00 a.m.-Noon (Atlantic) at Plaster Rock Tobique-Plex. For youth ages 5-12. Bring bike and helmet for inspection, take part in our obstacle course, learn safety tips, get snacks, refreshments, certificates, and prizes! Contact Village of Plaster Rock Recreation and Parks Department (506-356-6075) FMI

Sunday, June 7

Community in Motion 1k/5k Walk to Fight Arthritis, Hartland, NB

The Walk to Fight Arthritis stretches across Canada to help the over 4.6 million Canadians who live with arthritis every day. Registration: 1:00 p.m. at Hartland Covered Bridge. Walk start: 2:00 p.m. (all times Atlantic). Contact: Donna Clark (506-452-7191 ex. 103) or frederictonwalktofightarthritis@arthritis.ca FMI

*Saturday, June 13

Woodstock Recreation Colour Me Neon 5k, Woodstock, NB

Registration: 9:00 a.m. at AYR Motor Centre. Race start: 10:30 a.m. (all times Atlantic). Cost: $20/adult, $15/youth 10 & under, pre-reg.; add $5/person race day. Proceeds to Woodstock Recreation Youth Zone Program. Contact Jenna Bull (506-323-9090) jennabbull@gmail.com FMI

*Saturday, June 13

Miller Fun 5k, Plaster Rock, NB

Registration: 10:00 a.m. at Roulston Lake Tourist Park Pavilion. Race start: 11:00 a.m. (all times Atlantic). Cost: $10/youth, $25/adult, $35/family or through pledge collection. Contact Debbie Miller (506-356-2284) or dc.miller@hotmail.com FMI

Tuesday, June 16

Woodie Wheaton Land Trust Mud Lake Falls Canoe Trip, Forest City

Paddle from Spednic Landing to the Booming Out Ground. 9:00 a.m. at WWLT Center. Bring canoe/kayak, lunch; traditional wood/canvas canoes can be reserved. Contact Patty Michaud (207-448‐3250) or info@woodiewheaton.org FMI

Tuesday, June 16

Spring Summit Run: 2015-NT, Baxter State Park

Run to the top of North Traveler (NT) Mountain; 2.5 miles, 2000 foot elevation gain; scramble down to South Branch Pond Campground; drinks and grub will most likely be waiting! Camping an option the night before. Hosted by Donald Eno. Visit www.facebook.com/events/1500535286861000 FMI

Saturday, June 20

Rally in the Valley Mountain Bike Festival, Fort Kent

8:00 a.m. at Fort Kent Outdoor Center. For kids of all ages. Pre-registrations receive free helmet, water bottle, cool t-shirt! Cost: $5; includes bag lunch, all participants present eligible to win new mountain bike! Contact Gail Lamarr (207-834-1459) or gail.lamarr@nmmc.org FMI

Sunday, June 21

SW Collins Co. 5k Run/Walk, Caribou

Aroostook Musterds Challenge Series Race #3. Registration: 8:30 a.m. Start times: Kids’ Fun Run: 9:00 a.m.; 5k Walk: 9:45 a.m.; 5k Run: 10:00 a.m. First 75 registrants receive t-shirt. Contact Leslie Jackson (207-496-6723) or lesliej@swcollins.com FMI

*Sunday, June 21

Le Petit Sault 30/60 MTB Endurance Race, Edmundston, NB

20k, 40k, 60k mountain bike races. Registration: 9:00 a.m. Race start: 10:30 a.m. (all times Atlantic). Great prizes, handmade sprocket trophies. Cost: $35; non-licensed racers must pay $10 day license fee. Canteen services, 3 feed stations. Contact Marco Levesque (506-735-0918) or mdlque@hotmail.com FMI

*Saturday, June 27

Tri Aroostook, Presque Isle

USAT-sanctioned sprint triathlon for ages 16 and up. Compete in the fully supported, staffed sprint triathlon as an individual or relay team. Components: 525-yard indoor pool swim; scenic 10.25-mile bike; 3.1-mile off road run. Race start: 8:00 a.m. Cost: $70/person; includes shirt, medal, awards. Visit www.competitorme.com FMI

*Saturday, June 27

Tri Aroostook Kids, Presque Isle

USAT-sanctioned youth triathlon for ages 6-15. Athletes compete as individuals at varying distances based on age; capped at 125 athletes. First of three youth triathlons in a series. Race start: 1:30 p.m. Cost: $20/person. Visit www.competitorme.com FMI

*Sunday, June 28

1st Annual Fresh Trails Classic Gentleman’s Race, Stockholm

Coed teams of 4 work and stay together on approx. 50 miles of ATV trails, logging roads, paved roads. Race start: 9:00 a.m. at Eureka Restaurant. Good food pizza, drinks, laughs after the race. Cost: $20/team. First, last place teams win free dinner at Eureka. Visit www.freshtrails.com FMI

Ongoing Programs:

Sunday Saunter Running Group, Presque Isle

Sundays; 10:00 a.m. at UMPI's Gentile Hall. Open to all abilities; be ready for an easy run of 30-45 minutes, and bring friends! Contact Jonathan Kelley competitorme@gmail.com FMI

NHSC Group Mountain Bike Ride, Presque Isle

Mondays; 6:00 p.m. at Nordic Heritage Center Lodge. 8-12 miles. All abilities welcome. Happy to show visitors our amazing trail system. Contact Tom Chasse (207-694-5222) or tom@bikeboardandski.com FMI

*MOJO Monday Meander, Presque Isle

Mondays; 6:00 p.m. at MOJO Outdoor Sports. Easy road bike group ride. Average speed: 14-18 mph for 22 miles. Contact Mark Fullen (207-760-9500) or info@mojooutdoorsports.com FMI

TAMC Community Couch to 5k Program, Presque Isle

Mondays & Wednesdays; 5:00 p.m. Get off the couch; train your body to run or walk in one of many 5k events this summer. Running program: 9 weeks; walking program: 7 wks. Participants invited to take part in Freedom 5k, July 11. Cost: FREE! Contact Sarah Caron (207-768-4169) or scaron@emhs.org or Linda Menard (207-768-4172) or lmenard@emhs.org FMI

Little Musterds Running Camp, Houlton

Mondays & Wednesdays; June 15-July 3, times vary by age group. This 3-week camp will give your child support and encouragement to run their first race. Cost: Grade 3-4: $15/Houlton resident, $22/non-resident; Grade 5–8: $25/Houlton resident, $38/non-resident. Contact Houlton Recreation Department (207-532-1310) FMI

Running 101 for Adults, Houlton

Tuesdays; 4:30 p.m. at the Houlton Rec Center. Start date: June 16. 8-week program will teach safe and proper running; warm-ups, group runs, cool downs, “homework assignments.” Cost: $20/Houlton resident, $30/non-resident; must be 18 years or older. Contact Houlton Recreation Department (207-532-1310) FMI

Tuesday Track Workouts, Caribou

Tuesdays; 5:15 p.m. at CHS. Join runners of all abilities to do predetermined intervals, your own workout, or just run with others and forget the workout. Average distance: 5-9 miles; can be adapted per individual. Contact PJ Gorneault pgorneault@rsu39.org FMI

NHSC Women's Trail Night, Presque Isle

Tuesdays; 6:00 p.m. at Nordic Heritage Center Lodge. May-June. Leaders will take you on hiking, trail running, and mountain biking adventures; beginner and intermediate groups. Equipment rentals available. Visit www.nordicheritagecenter.com FMI

NHSC Group Mountain Bike Ride, Presque Isle

Wednesdays; 6:00 p.m. at Nordic Heritage Center Fort Road trailhead. 8-12 miles. All abilities welcome. Happy to show visitors our amazing trail system. Contact Tom Chasse (207-694-5222) or tom@bikeboardandski.com FMI

*MOJO Good Times Ride, Presque Isle

Wednesdays; 6:00 p.m. at MOJO Outdoor Sports. Moderate road bike group ride. Average speed: 15-18 mph for 20-30 miles. Contact Mark Fullen (207-760-9500) or info@mojooutdoorsports.com FMI

Village of Perth-Andover Walk in the Park, Perth-Andover, NB

Wednesdays; 6:30–7:30 p.m. (Atlantic time). Meet at Perth-Andover Bandstand; weather permitting. Visit www.perth-andover.com FMI

Bike Board and Ski Road Bike Ride, Presque Isle

Saturdays; 7:30 a.m. at Bike Board and Ski rear entrance behind Northeastland Hotel. 25-35 miles; 1.5-2 hours. Pace: moderate to fast; 16-18 mph early season, 18-20 mph mid-season. Contact Andrew Bouchard (207-551-7027) or andrew@bikeboardandski.com FMI

River Valley Runners Saturday Fun Run, Woodstock, NB

Saturdays; 8:30 a.m. (Atlantic) at Carleton Civic Centre, 105 Connell Park Rd. Meet in main/front parking lot of Civic Centre. Hope to see many runners out; spring is coming soon. Visit www.facebook.com/groups/rvrunnersnb FMI

* = New or updated item(s).