Posted inOutdoors

Snowmobiling: We all can help improve reports on conditions

Snowmobilers are out on trails often for long periods of time in some of the most remote and rugged areas of Maine, in always-changing weather conditions. That is why what they see and hear is so important to the National Weather Service offices in Gray and Caribou. “This is the first year that our offices […]

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Posted inOutdoors

Birding: Smart imagery, conception make new guides stand out

A couple of new books have crossed my desk that I think will be interest to birders. The first is a new field guide to the birds of the eastern part of our continent. Published by Princeton University Press, this guide is titled “Birds of Eastern North America: A Photographic Guide,” written by Paul Sterry […]

Posted inOutdoors

Skiing: Ready for a bigger, better Dumont Cup?

At 23, Simon Dumont of Bethel has skied and competed all over the world. His trophy shelf of big air and halfpipe medals is as vast as his passport stamps. Just this winter he’s traveled all over the Rockies, New Zealand, South America, Scandinavia, Austria and France – where I spoke with him last week […]

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Allen Afield: No burnout, just burning up calories on the road

Some writers who cover bicycling claim pedaling year-round can burn folks out, so even in warmer climates they encourage a layoff in winter, which allegedly rejuvenates the body and soul. These writers suggest a focus on weightlifting, riding stationary bikes, other exercises and dieting to stay in shape from December through March. It’s a regimen […]

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Fleming: Mountain trek is for a worthy cause

Many people hike, bike, run or kayak to raise money for a cause, but not all create a Web site as an educational platform to further environmental issues on top of a 30-mile-a-day, four-month trek. That’s what former Hampden Academy track star Oriana Farley did with her boyfriend, David Madeira, in preparation for their thru-hike […]

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Got gear?

MOST ATHLETES understand the importance of wearing sweat proof sunscreen when exercising outdoors during peak sunlight. But many people do not realize that ultraviolet radiation can severely damage the eyes. LONG-TERM UV exposure can damage the cornea and lens. Exposure can also lead to cataracts and skin cancer around the eyelids. All eye colors are […]

Posted inBusiness

Federal administrator aims to break logjam in lending

WASHINGTON — Since taking the helm of the Small Business Administration last April, businesswoman Karen Mills has drawn praise for aggressive moves to try to boost lending to small firms amid a deep economic downturn. Chief among these efforts was a push to have the government guarantee 90 percent of a loan to a firm […]