January Programs for Job Seekers at the Presque Isle CareerCenter

Presque Isle, Maine - The Presque Isle CareerCenter announces January programs for job seekers and those who are considering training for a new career.

"As Maine continues its historic run of low unemployment, now is the perfect time to find work as we head into a new year," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Maine employers have over 10,000 jobs listed on Maine JobLink, from entry level to professional. CareerCenters continue to sponsor monthly job fairs and provide no-cost job search assistance, resume writing workshops and career counseling. You may also qualify for support to train for a new career. I encourage you to connect with your closest Maine CareerCenter for help with your career search."

Job seekers and businesses interested in connecting with one another can also like the CareerCenter on Facebook. Events are held at the Presque Isle CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street, unless otherwise noted. Maine Veterans receive priority of service in all CareerCenter programs.

**Creating Winning Resumes - Fridays, January 5, 12, 19 and 26, 9:00 a.m.**

Learn how to create a professional resume and walk out the door with one in hand.

**Financial Aid - Tuesdays, January 2, 16, 23 and 30, 9:00 a.m.**

Get assistance with college planning and financial aid. Pre-register at 1-800-281-3703 to register or visit http://meoc.maine.edu.

**About the CareerCenter**

CareerCenters, part of the Maine Department of Labor, offer a variety of services to help people find employment or upgrade skills. Each center provides several public-access computer workstations with Microsoft Office software, resume writing and cover letter software, Internet access and O'Net software for skills assessment. All CareerCenter services are free of charge.

Call 207-760-6300 or 1-800-635-0357 (TTY users call Maine Relay 711) for additional information and to register for workshops held at the CareerCenter. The CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street in Presque Isle, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can also find more information at the CareerCenter website, www.mainecareercenter.gov .

Maine CareerCenters are an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

February Programs for Job Seekers at the Presque Isle CareerCenter

Presque Isle, Maine - The Presque Isle CareerCenter announces February programs for job seekers and those who are considering training for a new career.

"Mainers looking for a new or better job should connect with their local Maine CareerCenter," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "There is no-cost help available to improve your job search with a better resume and interview tips, workshops for people of various backgrounds, and computer labs for online job searches and word processing. Training for a new career may also be available."

Job seekers and businesses interested in connecting with one another can also like the CareerCenter on Facebook. Events are held at the Presque Isle CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street, unless otherwise noted. Maine Veterans receive priority of service in all CareerCenter programs.

**Hazard Communication / Global Harmonization and Chemical Substitution - Tuesday, February

January Programs for Job Seekers at the Presque Isle CareerCenter

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine - The Presque Isle CareerCenter announces January programs for job seekers and those who are considering training for a new career.

"Mainers looking for a new or better job should connect with their local Maine CareerCenter," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "There is no-cost help available to improve your job search with a better resume and interview tips, workshops for people of various backgrounds, and computer labs for online job searches and word processing. Training for a new career may also be available."

Job seekers and businesses interested in connecting with one another can also like the CareerCenter on Facebook. Events are held at the Presque Isle CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street, unless otherwise noted. Maine Veterans receive priority of service in all CareerCenter programs.

**Financial Aid - Tuesdays, January 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 at 9 a.m.**

Get assistance with college planning and financial aid. Preregister at 800-281-3703 or http://meoc.maine.edu .

**Maine JobLink Resume Creation - Wednesdays, January 4 and 18 at 9 a.m.**

Learn how to create a resume utilizing the Maine JobLink resume tool

**Creating Winning Resumes - Fridays, January 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 9:00 a.m.**

Learn how to create a professional resume and walk out the door with one in hand.

CareerCenters, part of the Maine Department of Labor, offer a variety of services to help people find employment or upgrade skills. Each center provides several public-access computer workstations with Microsoft Office software, resume writing and cover letter software, Internet access and O'Net software for skills assessment. All CareerCenter services are free of charge.

Call 207-760-6300 or 1-800-635-0357 (TTY users call Maine Relay 711) for additional information and to register for workshops held at the CareerCenter. The CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street in Presque Isle, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can also find more information at the CareerCenter website, www.mainecareercenter.gov .

Maine CareerCenters are an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Mariners Take UMPI Invitational; Klopfer Individual Medalist‏

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine – Maine Maritime Academy Golf picked up the team victory on Friday at the Maine-Presque Isle Invitational. Freshman Erich Klopfer (Palm Harbor, Fla.) reached the clubhouse with a one over par 73 to pace the field and take medalist honors.

 

Keenan Kalthoff (Fallbrook, Calif.) shot a 75 and Kevin Pepin (Candia, N.H.) turned a 77 on the day. The Maine Maritime Academy Black Team ended the day with an impressive 310 team total, while the Maine Maritime Academy Blue Team ended the day with a 352.

The Owls were led by Noah Bernard who shot an 83 and Eric Depner, who shot an 84. Maine-Presque Isle combined for a 360.

The Mariners return to action next Wednesday, September 16^th when they host the Mariner Invitational at the Castine Country Club.

Yama Leads Beavers to Season-Opening Win at UMPI

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine – University of Maine at Farmington (1-0-0) sophomore Yusuf Yama (Goma, Congo/Portland) netted a pair of goals to lead the Beavers to a season-opening victory over the University of Maine at Presque Isle with Wednesday's 4-0 shutout in non-conference action.
Yama put the first goal into the back of the net at the 7:28 mark to give the Beavers an early 1-0 edge.
Ibrahim Achekh (Aboudeia, Chad/Lewiston) doubled the UMF lead with his first goal of the season in the 26^th minute.

UMF held onto the 2-0 lead late into the second half when the offense kicked in two more goals for the final margin of victory. Yama added his second goal of the in the 61^st minute after Achekh dished the assist.

With ten minutes remaining in the contest, Tristan Price (Moultonborough, N.H./Moultonborough Academy) charted his first career goal after getting the assist from Ryan Fairbanks.

Matt Wilson (Hamden, Conn./Hamden) earned his first career win and shutout with the victory. Wilson and the UMF defense were locked down for the entire contest and did not allow a shot on goal.

UMaine-Farmington will play Pine Manor on Saturday at Leib Field for the team's home opener.

June Workshops at the Presque Isle CareerCenter

Presque Isle, Maine - The Presque Isle CareerCenter announces June programming for job seekers and those who are considering training for a new career.

"CareerCenters provide many ways to enhance your job search," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Workshops are available at no cost to the participant and benefit everyone from entry-level to executive-level positions. Every day, we are helping Mainers get back to work or get a better, higher-paying job. With over 10,000 jobs on the Maine Job Bank, a visit to MaineCareerCenter.com will connect you with new opportunities and no-cost help to jump start your career."

Job seekers and businesses interested in connecting with one another can also "like" the CareerCenter on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Presque-Isle-CareerCenter/272239134751?ref=br_tf . Events are held at the Presque Isle CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street, unless otherwise noted. Maine Veterans receive priority of service in all CareerCenter programs.

Creating Winning Resumes: June 3, 10, 17, and 24, 9 a.m.

Learn how to create a professional resume and walk out the door with one in hand.

Financial Aid: June 10, 17, and 24, 9 a.m.

Get assistance with college planning and financial aid. Pre-register at 800-281-3703 or http://meoc.maine.edu.

Lockout / Tagout Procedures: June 12, 8 a.m.

OSHA regulations for safe repair/maintenance of equipment.

Laws Governing Workplace Rights: June 18, 8:30 a.m.

The Maine Department of Labor will offer sessions of its popular, no-charge course that educates employers and the public about regulations governing the workplace.

Gateways to Employment: June 19, 9 a.m.

Want to jump start your job search? Learn new strategies, proper interviewing skills, and the correct way to fill out a job application.

Gateways to Employment (Houlton): June 23, 9 a.m.

Want to jump start your job search? Learn new strategies, proper interviewing skills, and the correct way to fill out a job application.

W.I.S.E. Workshop - Work Incentive Seminar Event: June 24, 1 p.m.

Find out about work incentives and rules designed exclusively to help Social Security beneficiaries (SSI or SSDI) get back to work.

Job Search Tips for People with a Criminal History: June 26, 9 a.m.

Do you have a criminal background? Are you having trouble finding work? This workshop will give job search tips, suggestions on how to respond to those hard-to-answer questions, and identify where best to seek employment that will lead to a successful job search.

CareerCenters, part of the Maine Department of Labor, offer a variety of services to help people find employment or upgrade skills. Each center provides several public-access computer workstations with Microsoft Office software, resume writing and cover letter software, Internet access and O'Net software for skills assessment. All CareerCenter services are free of charge.

Call 760-6300 or 1-800-635-0357 (TTY users call Maine Relay 711) for additional information and to register for workshops held at the CareerCenter. The CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street in Presque Isle, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can also find more information at the CareerCenter website, www.mainecareercenter.com .

Maine CareerCenters are an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

No-Cost Safety Classes May 5 and 6 at the Presque Isle CareerCenter

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine - The Maine Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Standards is holding no-charge SafetyWorks! classes on May 5 and 6 at the Presque Isle CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street.

"Mainers and businesses want a safe work environment," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Our SafetyWorks! program helps businesses avoid injuries, protect their workers and reduce injury-related costs like workers' comp premiums and lost productivity. I encourage you to visit safetyworksmaine.com regularly for class listings, safety tips, and helpful information and resources."

Mine Safety and Health Administration: Refresher - Tuesday, May 5, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requires all surface mining employees to receive eight-hour annual training. This one-day course will cover generic MSHA training. However,site-specific training will also need to be conducted once attendees return to their respective job sites.

Trenching and Excavation - Wednesday, May 6, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Attendees will learn the dangers to employees, soil classifications, OSHA requirements and the types of protective systems to prevent cave-ins, as well as what is meant by "competent person."

Employers interested in registering can learn more and register at http://www.safetyworksmaine.com and clicking "More Classes" from the homepage. Space is limited so reservations are required.

SafetyWorks! is not OSHA and cannot issue fines or citations to private businesses. While SafetyWorks! helps businesses of any size, priority is given to small businesses. The program trains about 8,000 people and consults at nearly 1,000 worksites in Maine each year. Employers interested in learning more about the consulting and training services offered by SafetyWorks! should call 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) or visit http://www.safetyworksmaine.com .

The Bureau of Labor Standards is Maine's regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law and workplace safety; it provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine's workforce.

The State of Maine is an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.

April Workshops at the Presque Isle CareerCenter

Presque Isle, Maine - The Presque Isle CareerCenter announces April programming for job seekers and those who are considering training for a new career.

"The Department of Labor offers programs and workshops throughout the state that can help our citizens in most need find a way out of poverty and into a good-paying job," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "I encourage job seekers to visit www.mainecareercenter.com and contact their local CareerCenter for an assessment. You might qualify for special training programs to earn a degree or start a new career."

Job seekers and businesses interested in connecting with one another can also "like" the CareerCenter on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Presque-Isle-CareerCenter/272239134751?ref=br_tf . Events are held at the Presque Isle CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street, unless otherwise noted. Maine Veterans receive priority of service in all CareerCenter programs.

Creating Winning Resumes: April 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, 9 a.m. Learn how to create a professional

January Workshops at the Presque Isle CareerCenter

Presque Isle, Maine - The Presque Isle CareerCenter announces January programming for job seekers and those who are considering training for a new career.

"The CareerCenters provide Mainers with tools for an effective job search," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Along with workshops that will help you fine tune your resume or interviewing skills, they can help with Maine Job Bank registration and often hold job fairs. I encourage job seekers to start the new year off right and visit the CareerCenter online or at your local office."

Job seekers and businesses interested in connecting with one another can also "like" the CareerCenter on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Presque-Isle-CareerCenter/272239134751?ref=br_tf . Events are held at the Presque Isle CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street, unless otherwise noted. Maine Veterans receive priority of service in all CareerCenter programs.

Federal Veterans Hiring Preference: January 6, 9 a.m. Come in and learn how you can utilize your

July Events at the Presque Isle CareerCenter

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine - The Presque Isle CareerCenter announces July programming for job seekers and those who are considering training for a new career.

"By taking advantage of the no-charge workshops at our CareerCenters, job seekers can improve their chances at landing the position they want," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "CareerCenters can teach you not only how to improve your resume, but also show you new places to look for jobs and connect you with HR managers who provide the inside scoop on what employers are looking for in candidates. I encourage you to get the information you need to compete in today's job market."

Job seekers and businesses interested in connecting with one another can also "like" the CareerCenter on

Department of Labor Offering Classes for Employers in Machias and Presque Isle on May 8 and 9

*Space is available for the employment law course in Machias on May 8 and OSHA recordkeeping in Presque Isle on May 9*

AUGUSTA, Maine - The Maine Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Standards is taking its no-cost courses for employers on the road to Washington and Aroostook Counties in May.

"We want to make it convenient for employers to learn about what they need to do to comply with the law. We know it is hard on small businesses when staff have to travel for training," said Commissioner of Labor Jeanne Paquette. "When employers know how to do the right thing, it makes their business a better place to work. That helps all Mainers."

These courses are held at no cost to the employer and are designed for small business owners and staff who have responsibility for managing human resources.

The popular course that educates employers and the public about regulations governing the workplace, "Laws Governing Workplace Rights," will be held at the Machias CareerCenter on May 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This course covers wage and hour laws, including minimum wage, overtime, youth employment, severance pay, equal pay, leave requirements (family medical leave and domestic violence) and break requirements. It addresses commonly asked employment-related questions and offers participants an opportunity to ask questions. The course also includes a discussion of employer services offered by the CareerCenters.

The course, "OSHA Recordkeeping," will teach employers how to document workplace injuries and illnesses on May 9 at the Presque Isle CareerCenter. The course runs from 8:30 a.m to 3:30 p.m.

This class provides a thorough and comprehensive six-hour training for both new and experienced safety and human resources personnel. Participants learn the OSHA rule (29 CFR 1904) regarding recording and reporting work-related injuries and illnesses as it applies to their organizations. This class includes several hands-on activities on how to fill out the required injury reporting forms correctly.

Employers interested in registering for either course can learn more and register at http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/index.php?topic=Safetyworks_Classes&v=ListAll . Space is limited so reservations are required.

The Bureau of Labor Standards is Maine's regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law and workplace safety; it provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine's workforce.

May Events at the Presque Isle CareerCenter

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine - The Presque Isle CareerCenter announces May programming for job seekers and those who are considering training for a new career.

"Our unemployment rate is falling and our businesses are hiring," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "If you are searching for work but haven't been getting interviews, I encourage you to contact a CareerCenter for free help in improving that resume and practicing job interviews. CareerCenters will help you be in the best position to take advantage of our economic growth."

Job seekers and businesses interested in connecting with one another can also "like" the CareerCenter on Facebook at

January Workshops at the Presque Isle CareerCenter

Presque Isle, Maine - Start the year with a new career! The Presque Isle CareerCenter announces January programming for job seekers and those who are considering training to upgrade their skills to increase their employability.

"Our partnerships between businesses and CareerCenters are helpful for both jobseekers and the employer," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "CareerCenter staff can help people plan for a new career, connect with today's job search tools and meet hiring decision-makers."

Job seekers and businesses interested in connecting with one another can also "like" the CareerCenter on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Presque-Isle-CareerCenter/ . Workshops and events are held at the CareerCenter unless otherwise noted. Maine Veterans receive priority of service in all CareerCenter programs.

**Creating Winning Resumes**-Workshops offered Jan. 8, 15, 22 and 29; 9 a.m. to noon. Learn how to create a professional resume and walk out the door with one in hand after this three-hour workshop.

**Computer Boot Camp**- Workshops offered Jan. 10 and 31, 9 a.m. Do you find it difficult to apply for jobs using computers? Are you a beginner computer user? Come in to learn the basic steps of using a computer in a no-pressure atmosphere. You must pre-register to ensure there will be a computer available for your use. Call 760-6300 and ask for Pete or Jenna.

**Gateways to Employment**-Workshops offered in two locations: Houlton on Jan. 21 at 9 a.m. and in Presque Isle on Jan. 24 at 9 a.m. Want to jump start your job search? Learn new strategies, proper interviewing skills and the correct way to fill out a job application.

**Financial Aid**- Jan. 15, 22 and 29, 9 a.m. to noon. Get assistance with college planning and financial aid. Please pre-register at 800-281-3703 or http://meoc.maine.edu .

**Job Search Tips for People with a Criminal History**- Workshops offered Jan. 17 at 9 a.m. Do you have a criminal background? Are you having trouble finding work? This workshop will give job search tips, suggestions on how to respond to those hard-to-answer questions and identify where best to seek employment that will lead to a successful job search.

CareerCenters, part of the Maine Department of Labor, offer a variety of services to help people find employment or upgrade skills. Each center provides several public-access computer workstations with Microsoft Office software, resume writing and cover letter software, Internet access and O'Net software for skills assessment. All CareerCenter services are free of charge.

Call (207) 760-6300 or 1-800-635-0357 (TTY users call Maine Relay 711) for additional information and to register for workshops held at the CareerCenter. The CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street in Presque Isle, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can also find more information at the CareerCenter website, http://www.mainecareercenter.com .

Maine CareerCenters are an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Aroostook State Park celebrates birding festival's fifth year

Presque Isle, Maine - On Saturday, June 8, Aroostook State Park will host a day that's "all about the birds." For the fifth straight year, the Aroostook State Park Birding Festival will offer walks, displays, demonstrations, and educational programs from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. - all part of what organizers describe as "bird immersion" for those wanting to learn more about birds.

"It's for anyone who enjoys nature and being outdoors and wants to expand their knowledge of birding," said Park Manager Scott Thompson. "There will be opportunities for beginners to learn some birding basics, and also for experienced birders who want to add to their life lists. Plus it's a great family event."

Governor Paul R. LePage and his Commissioner of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Commissioner Walt Whitcomb expressed support for the event and Maine's unique State Parks. "Events like this one contribute to the growing interest in the Maine outdoors. There are many new resources and opportunities for families to explore Maine this season. These include the addition of Geocaching and later a Coastal Resource Guide," said Governor LePage. Commissioner Whitcomb was equally enthusiastic: "Our park employees and volunteers are passionate about the parks they serve and are committed to ensuring that our visitors go home with lifelong memories," said Whitcomb.

This year's festival will feature activities such as guided bird walks, bird netting and banding demonstrations, hands-on use of spotting scopes and optics, as well as a talk on Maine's wild turkeys and a live-bird presentation, "Owls of Maine."

Early risers can catch the first guided bird walk of the day at 6 a.m., followed by 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. walks with members of Aroostook Birders bird watching club along the shoreline and through wooded trails in the park. Typically, around 40 different birds have been recorded throughout the day at past festivals. According to Thompson, as many as 100 different species of birds such as woodpeckers, songbirds, shorebirds and waterfowl inhabit or pass through Aroostook State Park in a given year. A pair of Bald Eagles has taken up residence again at the park.

Beginning at 8 a.m., Dr. Jason Johnston, Wildlife Ecology Professor at the University of Maine at Presque Isle will have mist nets set up and offer ongoing demonstrations on how researchers capture and band songbirds. At 9:30 a.m., the topic is "About Wild Turkeys," a talk by Regional Wildlife Biologist Rich Hoppe of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife describing the biology of these amazing birds and their presence here in northern Maine. At 11 a.m., educators from Maine's Chewonki Foundation will bring "Owls of Maine" to the festival - an opportunity for kids and others to handle real wings, skulls, feathers and feet, and to have a close-up view of a number of different live owls. This special presentation is sponsored by Aroostook Birders in memory of friend and fellow club member Kathy Braeuninger (Hunter).

A nominal fee is charged for entrance to the park; $2 for adults, $1 for children ages 5-11, all others free. Those who attend are eligible to win various door prizes. Participants are advised to dress appropriately and bring personal birding equipment such as binoculars, books, as well as sun screen and insect repellent. Several binoculars will be available for use through a Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund grant.

The Aroostook Birding Festival is a rain or shine event. Contact the park office at 768-8341 for further information or notice of cancellation if the weather is severe.

DECD Names Richmond and Presque Isle as the State's Newest "Certified Business-Friendly Communities"

Augusta, Maine - The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development today named the City of Presque Isle and the Town of Richmond as the latest "Certified Business-Friendly Communities."

To be certified "business-friendly," multiple areas of criteria are considered, including customer service, business involvement and collaboration, input from the public, and licensing and permitting.

"I applaud every effort taken by Presque Isle and Richmond to make doing business there easier and more efficient for job creators," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "And I hope this certification will remind each municipality to ask itself, 'Will this action or initiative we're about to undertake make us more business friendly?' This is the kind of proactive approach Maine needs to attract and retain businesses."

A team of public and private economic development experts reviews each application to determine eligibility in the program. Both Presque Isle and Richmond first applied for certification in 2012 and were successful with their reapplication this year.

Some business-friendly initiatives the review committee highlighted for Presque Isle included: • The city's steps to stabilize and reduce its tax rate. • Its authorization of the planning committee to guide and encourage community and economic development. • Presque Isle's recognition that "time is money" through its Site Design Review Process. • The city's focus on revitalizing its downtown through the "Get Down to Business in Downtown Presque Isle" initiative.

Some business-friendly initiatives the review committee highlighted for Richmond included: • The town's active membership and participation in the Southern Midcoast Chamber of Commerce. • Its collaboration with local businesses to produce a business resource guide. • The town's successful utilization of local, state and federal programs resulting in significant investments into public infrastructure and downtown revitalization.

"Through the efforts of the Governor and, more importantly, the continued hard work and dedication by our communities on behalf of businesses to grow and thrive, Maine continues to rise in the ranks of top states for business," said DECD Commissioner George Gervais. "We ask that every community continue to work to improve their business climate, and to reach out to the DECD for any reason. Our programs and initiatives are here to help."

Since the LePage administration launched the program in March of 2012, a total of 20 Maine communities have received the business-friendly status. Communities named business friendly are presented with a certificate, two MaineDOT road signs and become a key part of Maine's business attraction strategy.

Fall Career Fair in Presque Isle Features Dozens of Employers

Presque Isle, Maine - The Presque Isle CareerCenter is co-sponsoring a Career Fair on Wednesday October 17, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Crow's Nest restaurant and Event Center, 150 Maysville Street, Presque Isle.

"Job fairs are a great way for people to learn about many types of jobs in many different industries," said Commissioner of Labor Jeanne Paquette. "They are also a good opportunity to make a strong first impression with an employer."

Employers representing the healthcare, finance, agricultural, manufacturing, education, criminal justice, technology and other industries will be attending. A sample of employers recruiting at the fair includes: McCain Foods, the Caribou Vet Center, Sitel, Sears, Northern Maine General, Fastenal, Irving Woodlands, Acme Monaco, the National Guard, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs, Jobs in ME, Maine Staffing, Pines Health, Fastenal, the Defense Finance and Accounting Service, Lowes, Walmart and the State Police.

Paquette added, "It is great to see so many employers from several industries hiring. Getting people back to work is a priority for the LePage administration."

A veterans' outreach representative will be available to meet with veterans of any age interested in employment and training opportunities. The event will also feature several other organizations that can assist job seekers or those considering changing careers in determining what careers are appropriate for them. These institutions will provide information on training and higher-education opportunities.

Attendees should bring a resume and, more important, should be prepared to have an "interview-like" conversation with employers to discuss skills, knowledge areas and abilities. Job seekers should also be dressed for an interview.

The event is sponsored by the Presque Isle CareerCenter and the Maine Department of Labor, the Northern Maine Development Commission, the Crow's Nest Restaurant and Event Center and the Northern Maine Asset Coalition.

CareerCenters, part of the Maine Department of Labor, offer a variety of workshops and services to help people find employment or upgrade skills. Each center provides several public-access computer workstations with Microsoft Office software, resume writing and cover letter software, Internet access and O'Net software for skills assessment. All CareerCenter services are free of charge.

Call (207) 760-6300 or 1-800-635-0357 (TTY users call Maine Relay 711) for additional information and to register for workshops held at the CareerCenter. The CareerCenter, located at 66 Spruce Street in Presque Isle, ME 04769, is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can also find more information at the CareerCenter website, http://www.mainecareercenter.com.

Maine CareerCenters are an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Veterans Benefits Workshop Offered in Presque Isle

Presque Isle, Maine -- The Presque Isle CareerCenter is hosting a workshop featuring information on services and benefits available to any Veteran in Aroostook County. This event is open to all Veterans and their families. The workshop will be held on Monday, June 18, 2012, from 9:00 a.m.-noon at the Presque Isle CareerCenter (across from the Aroostook Centre Mall). Veterans and their families can learn about the new Veterans Administration (VA) education and training benefits, the types of training available at local educational institutions, the services provided by the State Veteran's Services Officer, the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Mobile Service Office, and the VET Center van. Veterans are encouraged to bring a guest to this program. Although pre-registration is not required to be eligible to participate, if you do plan on coming or will be bringing a guest, advance notice is appreciated. For more information, contact Randall Harper, Disabled Veteran's Outreach Program Representative, at the Presque Isle Career Center, 66 Spruce Street, Presque Isle, Maine 04769. He can be reached at randall.w.harper@maine.gov, 207-760-6322 or TTY: 207-760-6301. The Maine Department of Labor's CareerCenters offer specialized employment and training services for veterans. Veterans and eligible spouses are given priority of service under most Maine Department of Labor-funded programs. A CareerCenter veterans' representative can help returning service members find a job, get new skills, or access other state or federal resources. For more information about employment and training services for veterans, contact the CareerCenter at (207) 623-7981 or TTY 1-800-794-1110 or visit www.mainecareercenter.com.

Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands: Aroostook State Park to Host Fourth Annual Birding Festival

AUGUSTA, Maine ‑ It’s all about the birds again at Maine’s first state park.

Aroostook State Park in Presque Isle -- known as “Maine’s First State Park,” established 1935 – will hold its Fourth Annual Birding Festival on Saturday, June 23. This year, the popular birding festival is celebrating International Migratory Bird Day, which is dedicated to connecting people to bird conservation.

“Our Birding Festival is for anyone who enjoys nature and being outdoors and wants to expand their knowledge of birding,” said Park Manager Scott Thompson.  “There will be opportunities for experienced birders to add to their life lists and fun activities for new birders, plus it’s a great family event.”

Billed as Maine’s northern-most birding event, the festival is open to all who want to learn more about birds. The details of the event are:

• 6 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, June 23, Aroostook State Park, Presque Isle, $2 for adults, $1 for children 5-11, all others free. Coffee, hot cocoa and water are available; lunch available for a small donation. Event will take place rain or shine. For more information, call the park office at 768-8341 or for notice of cancellation if the weather is severe.

International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD), now in its 20^th year, is sponsored by the non-profit group, Environment for the Americas. The organization provides information and materials about birds, bird conservation, and bird education from Canada to South America. IMBD highlights and celebrates the migration of nearly 350 species of migratory birds between nesting habitats in North America and non-breeding grounds in Latin America, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Beginning bird watchers and experienced birders will find what organizers have described as “something for everyone” in the day’s events. This year’s festival offers a variety of workshops and activities such as: hourly guided bird walks, live bird displays, bird netting and banding, and presentations by wildlife biologists

Other activities include hands-on use of spotting scopes and optics, as well as bird-calling workshops, a bird-house building station for youngsters, and canoes/kayaks available to use on Echo Lake at the park. 

Early birders can catch the first scheduled walk of the day at 6 a.m., followed by regular walks along the shoreline and through wooded trails winding up into the park. More than 40 different birds were recorded at last year’s festival.

“It’s not unusual to find as many as 100 different species of birds in the park, including woodpeckers, songbirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl,” Thompson noted. “One year, we even saw a female hummingbird sitting on her nest.”

Volunteers from the Arthur Howell Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Amity will be on hand after 9:30 a.m. with live birds of prey. At 10 a.m., Wildlife Biologist Charlie Todd of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife will offer a presentation on our national bird, bald eagles.

Maury Mills, biologist at Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge in Calais, will speak at 11 a.m. about the life and habits of American woodcock in Maine. Members of the Aroostook Birders bird-watching club will be on hand to assist with walks and demonstrations.

Festival participants are eligible to win various door prizes. Park visitors are advised to dress appropriately and bring personal birding equipment, such as binoculars and books, as well as sun screen and insect repellent. Several binoculars will be available for use through a grant from the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund.

For more information about the festival, call the park at: (207) 768-8341

For more information about Aroostook State Park, go to: http://www.maine.gov/aroostook

For more information about Maine state parks, go to: http://www.parksandlands.com

For more information about International Migratory Bird Day, go to: http://www.birdday.org/