Dan Ladner News Today

A Presque Isle man’s woodworking hobby turned into a holiday display that has delighted generations for more than 50 years.

Gordon Buzza has enjoyed working with wood since he was a kid. He and his wife, Charlene, moved to Presque Isle in 1969, and a couple of years later his hands itched to create something. He decided to try a Santa’s workshop scene.

It would be difficult to find an Aroostook resident who hasn’t heard Dan Ladner’s music or seen him on stage.

When a music teacher asked 14-year-old Dan Ladner if he’d like to play the organ at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Presque Isle, he said he’d try it. He stayed for 72 years.

To the editor: Have you visited Presque Isle’s Mantle Lake Park this summer?  The changes are very noticeable and I’ve never seen it look better.