Pine Tree Camp Ride-In nets $100,000> Proceeds to benefit state’s handicapped children and adults

NEWPORT — A record $100,120 was received for the Pine Tree Camp for Handicapped Children and Adults during the 22nd Pine Tree Ride-In held over the weekend, sponsored by the Sebasticook Valley Snowmobile Club.

Bob Creighton, co-chairman of the event with his wife, Sharon, said before the year is out he expects the camp in Rome to receive more than $150,000 in donations as a result of the snowmobile rodeo.

Creighton said if it hadn’t been for the snowstorm, another $10,000 would have been added to the total, based on the calls the couple had received from snowmobile clubs earlier.

The Mardi Gras-North theme will be used in future years, according to Creighton. He encouraged those who decorated for the occasion to keep their decorations for other years.

The Nequasset Trail Breakers from Woolwich received the trophy for traveling the farthest. The Pittsfield Drift Busters also received a trophy presented on behalf of the club by Rep. John Baldacci for raising the most money for the cause, $35,016.

Radio station Q106.5’s participation in the egg run resulted in an $11,025 donation, according to Creighton, who added that eggs were spread everywhere.

The parade featured about 200 snowmbiles, including 20 antiques. Winning floats pulled by automobiles were the Palmyra Snowmobile Club, first; Newport Insurance Agency, second; and Forrest Yarns Inc. of Newport, third. Bud’s Shop ‘n Save’s float that was pulled by a snowmobile also received first place. Sharon Creighton received a trophy for the best-decorated snowmobile.

This year’s event also included pageantry. A king, queen, prince and princess were crowned for the festivities. Winning the honors were Amanda Badger of Newport, queen; Sarah Brown of East Corinth, princess; Kenneth Clark of Corinna, king and Buster Brown of East Corinth, prince.

A mock water rescue on Dunham Bridge went smoothly, according to Creighton.

Creighton extended his thanks to all those who participated to make the rodeo such a success, including the Newport Public Works Department.