Bangor Metro_Jan-Feb 2022

MUSH!

OutdoorAdventures WITH MAN’S BEST FRIEND

3 GREAT SPOTS FOR

X-C SKIING

Hit the Slopes

ON A FAMILY SKI ADVENTURE

LEARN TO SNOWSHOE

Make TracksAround

MAINE $5.95

January/February 2022

PLUS! A SPECIAL SECTION DEVOTED TO MAINE’S SENIORS

CONTENTS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

FEATURES 40

HIT THE SLOPES

Tips for planning a family ski adventure in Maine

46

IF THE SHOE FITS

Step out with snow-shoeing this winter

50

SNOW DOGS

Four winter sports to try with your four-legged friend

IN EVERY ISSUE 08

WHAT’S HAPPENING

40

TAKE A FAMILY SKI ADVENTURE

50

FOUR-LEGGED WINTER FUN

Local events & our monthly Pop Quiz

14

OBSESSIONS

What we can’t get enough of this month

38

PERSONAL FINANCE

Cryptocurrency isn’t just for tech bros anymore

54

WOODS & WATERS

Our national park is feeling full

56

THE VIEW FROM HERE

SPECIAL SECTION INSIDE! From tracing your family tree to staying fit, check out our Senior Living special section starting on page 28.

2 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

PHOTOS: (TOP) AMY ALLEN; (BOTTOM) BDN FILE

Start small & go big

ARTS & CULTURE 10

BY THE BOOK

Tim Cotton’s new book brings sense of humor to tough times

FOOD & DRINK 16

IN SEASON NOW

Warm salads to breathe new life into winter meal time

HEALTH & FITNESS 20

HIKE ME

Glide through winter on top-notch cross-country ski trails

HOME & FAMILY 24

HOW-TO

Make your own Valetine’s box to surprise your sweetie

26

A GUIDING HAND

Discover how a mentor can benefit your career this year

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 3

EDITOR’S NOTE

WinterSPORTS Fun &

DON’T LOOK NOW, but the area gyms are probably looking a lot more crowded than they were as December closed out.

Every year, well-meaning people seeking better health start the new year off by joining a gym.

That can make competition stiff for the most-loved exercise bikes and treadmills.

FORTUNATELY, HEALTHY LIVING DOESN’T HAVE TO MEAN SIGNING INTO THE WEIGHT ROOM OR TUCKING EARBUDS IN TO AVOID CONVERSATION WITH THE DUDE ON THE NEXT BIKE. IN FACT, THERE’S A WHOLE WORLD OF HEALTHY LIVING ACTIVITIES BECKONING FOR YOU. Are you ready to head outdoors this winter? Maine is awash with ski mountains just waiting to sweep you up on a chair lift for a fun jaunt on alpine trails. Check out Amy Allen’s story on mountains near and far in the Pine Tree State on page 40.

If downhill skiing isn’t your jam, don’t despair. Snowshoeing makes winter walks and hikes a whole lot of fun. Read about it on page 46. Or, for the adventurous, there’s an array of winter sports involving man’s best friend that might tickle your fancy.

Learn about them on page 50.

More interested in curling up by the fire? Check out our interview with social media maven turned author Tim Cotton on page 10. And don’t miss all the recommendations for things to wear and do in this month’s Obsessions column beginning on page 14.

And don’t forget that Valentine’s Day is coming! We have a fun tutorial for making your own giftable Valentine’s Day box on page 24 that you won’t want to miss.

Alright, who’s ready to head outside for some fun?

SARAH WALKER CARON, EDITOR

Connect With Us Online bangormetro.com facebook.com/BangorMetro talkback@bangormetro.com

4 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

www.bangormetro.com P.O. Box 1329 Bangor, Maine 04402-1329 Phone: 207.990.8000

PUBLISHER

Richard J. Warren

EDITOR

Sarah Walker Caron scaron@bangordailynews.com

SALES MANAGER

Laurie Cates

lcates@bangordailynews.com

ART DIRECTOR

Amy Allen

aallen@bangordailynews.com

SUBSCRIPTION & PROMOTIONS MANAGER

Fred Stewart

fstewart@bangordailynews.com

STAFF WRITER

Julia Bayly jbayly@bangordailynews.com

STAFF WRITER

Rosemary Lausier rlausier@bangordailynews.com

STAFF WRITER

Sam Schipani sschipani@bangordailynews.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Bob Duchesne, Erinne Magee, Emily Morrison, Joanna O’Leary, Aislinn Sarnacki, Katie Smith www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 5

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

WHAT DO YOU

WANT TO

Bangor Metro Magazine. January/February 2022, Vol. 18, No. 1.

Copyright © Bangor Publishing Company.

Bangor Metro is published 10 times annually by Bangor Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

This magazine may not be reproduced in whole or part in any form without the written permission of the Publisher.

Bangor Metro is mailed at standard rates from Portland, Maine.

Opinions expressed in either the editorial or advertisements do not represent the opinions of the staff or publisher of Bangor Metro magazine. Advertisers and event sponsors or their agents are responsible for copyrights and accuracy of all material they submit.

Bangor Metro magazine to the best of its ability ensures the acuracy of information printed in the publication.

Inquiries and suggestions are welcome and encouraged. Letters to the editor, story suggestions, and other reader input will be subject to Bangor Metro’s unrestricted right to edit and publish in the magazine both in print and online.

Editorial: Queries should be sent to Sarah Walker Caron at scaron@bangordailynews.com.

STOP DOING

“

IN 2022?

I want to STOP making excuses why I can’t just have a homemade lunch each day. I work from home! A little planning is all it will take to make this habit end.”

— SARAH WALKER CARON, EDITOR

Advertising: For advertising questions, please call the Sales Director Todd Johnston at 207-990-8129.

Subscriptions/Address Change: The one year subscription cost is $15.95. Address changes: to ensure delivery, subscribers must notify the magazine of address changes one month in advance of the cover date. Please contact Fred Stewart at 207-990-8075.

“I want to stop doomscrolling.”

— SAM SCHIPANI, STAFF WRITER

Accounts Payable/Receivable: For information about your account please contact Todd Johnston at 207-990-8129.

COVER DESIGN: Amy Allen

“I would like to STOP looking at a screen 30 minutes before I go to bed. No Facebook, no YouTube, no Netflix, no last minute emailing, grading or writing — just reading, resting and dreaming from here on out!”

— EMILY MORRISON, COLUMNIST

“Overeating.”

— BOB DUCHESNE, COLUMNIST

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 7

WHAT’S HAPPENING

JAN & FEB Andrew Lloyd Webber’s one-woman show will be performed by Brianne Beck at the Bangor Opera House. This tells the story of a girl from Muswell Hill, England, who travels to the United States looking for love. Where will her search lead? Visit PenobscotTheatre.org to learn more or to purchase tickets.

JAN. 8 COMEDY NITE

Get your laugh on at Bangor Arts Exchange Jan. 8 at 8 p.m. Comedy Nite will feature comics Ian Stuart, Henry Caitlin, Audrey Farber, Casey Watson and Alex Temple. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $18 in advance or $22 on the day of show. Visit the events tab at www.facebook.com/BangorArtsExchange for more information.

JAN. 10 THROUGH A GLASS DARKLY WITH ERICA NADELHAFT

Bangor Public Library will host a lecture

by Erica Nadelhaft, the education coordinator at the Holocaust and Human Rights Center of Maine. Using letters as a starting point, the lecture will follow three branches of the Muehsam family as they struggled to escape Germany in the late 1930s and emigrate to the United States. Despite their wealth and connections, bureaucracy worked against them along the way leading to closed doors, imprisonments, escapes and deaths. For more information, visit facebook.com/YourBangorPublicLibrary.

JAN. 30 MOZART AND SAINT-GEORGES

The Bangor Symphony Orchestra will present Masterworks III on Jan. 30 at 3 p.m. at the Collins Center for the Arts. The performance is called Revolutionaries: Mozart/Saint-Georges, both 18th century composers who created revolutionary works that still delight listeners today. The performance will be conducted by Lucas Richman with special guest Wren Saunders on bassoon.

In addition to the live performance, there will be digital access to a recording of it available for a fee from Feb. 1-15.

Visit BangorSymphony.org for more information or to purchase tickets/access.

FEB. 10-27 MAYTAG VIRGIN

The Penobscot Theatre Company stages this Maine premiere of a southern love story just in time for Valentine’s Day. Maytag Virgin is a character-driven play about neighbors, unexpected journeys and healing. Visit PenobscotTheatre.org for more information or to purchase tickets.

FEB. 11-13 NATIONAL TOBOGGAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Head to Camden Snow Bowl for the rip roaring good time that is the U.S. National Toboggan Championships, which is back this year after a 2021 hiatus. Participants gather in two to four person teams for cool, fast runs on wooden toboggans down the chute. The best teams go to the finals for the chance to be the top tobogganing team in the U.S. Bring your costumes, your warm clothes and your sense of fun for this day on the ice. For more information or to register your team: camdensnowbowl.com/ toboggan-championships.

Find answers below.

Answers to this month’s Pop Quiz: Question 1: B; Q2: A; Q3: B; Q4: A; Q5: C. 8 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK

JAN. 6-23 TELL ME ON A SUNDAY

LET’S GO!

Winter is a great time to get outside and move! Let’s test your cold-weather know-how!

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 9

ARTS & CULTURE

By the BOOK POLICE LIEUTENANT’S NEW BOOK RELEASE BRINGS SENSE OF HUMOR IN TOUGH TIMES

T

BY ERINNE MAGEE

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT GOT WARRANTS IS HOW YOU’RE ABLE TO SHOW READERS THAT LIFE DOESN’T NEED TO BE TAKEN SO SERIOUSLY. WITH SO MUCH HAPPENING IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE IN FINDING HUMOR WHEN LIFE FEELS HEAVY? As far back as I can remember, laughing took up residence in my life. Has it always been acceptable? Nope. Not with teachers during my formative years in school, nor was it accepted from the back pew of churches when my dad was in the pulpit. I’ve been able to find humor in some very dreadful and horrific moments of my life, and I firmly believe it’s the one common thread that has

10 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

PHOTO: ©RAWF8/ADOBE STOCK

here’s a breath of fresh air found in Tim Cotton’s writing. With an innate ability to give life to the ordinary, he teaches us how to laugh with compassion while turning the pages of his latest book “Got Warrants?”

The book is an extension of the writings that brought the Bangor Police Department’s Facebook page to a national audience. Written by Cotton, the page has since gained 327k followers. That’s led to a multi-book deal with Down East books for TC, as he signs off his posts, and a fanbase that will road trip across the country in hopes of catching a glimpse of him — or at least the Duck of Justice — at the downtown station.

And now the cop-turnedwriter is turning his attention to something new: novel writing.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 11

ARTS & CULTURE

allowed me to cope with some pretty heavy things. I moved a lot as a kid. Eighteen times before I was 18 years old. Worming your way into social situations at new schools proved to me that making people laugh, even a little bit, opened doors to some pretty good friendships. My humor is more self-deprecating and not focused on specific people. I make fun of myself, and of course the odd situations, but not people. I don’t like mean humor. I think that manifests itself in the “Got Warrants” series.

YOU’RE SORT OF A SOCIAL MEDIA GURU SOLELY BY RELYING ON STORYTELLING. TELL US YOUR SECRET. My secret is that I don’t listen to social media professionals. True story. I write thousands of words in some posts, and I use very few photos. I believe that I have 12 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

learned to write in a way that allows the words to create better pictures in reader’s minds. I also engage in the comment section. I read every comment and I respond to many. Social media should be a dialogue between those who take the time to read your stuff, and you, the person who writes that stuff.

Basic psychology tells us that people thrive when they are noticed.

I owe them that. When people are taking time out of their day to read what I write, I feel that I need to read what they are writing. There’s no better way to build an audience than to make them feel like they are part of the show. If you are too busy to respond, don’t expect even a modicum

of loyalty from the people who read your page(s). It’s so simple, and it doesn’t need to be snarky. If they criticize, pay attention.

If they praise, accept it in a self-deprecating way, but be thankful. If more folks would utilize social media with a focus on SOCIAL, and not MEDIA, they’d increase their readership, followers, likes or what-

PHOTOS: (INSET) KEVIN BENNETT; (TOP) BDN FILE

Bangor Police detective Tim Cotton signs copies of his book, “The Detective in the Dooryard,” at Left Bank Books in Belfast in 2020.

ever they are trying to achieve. There you go. A free master class from a mope.

YOUR STORIES FROM MAINE SEEM TO REACH PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE INTERACTIONS WITH READERS THAT WE DON’T SEE ON SOCIAL MEDIA? I think the one thing that has made me turn away and tear up a few times are the ladies — from all over the country — who have told me that my daily writings, as pitiful as they can be, helped them get through cancer treatments. Or the folks who tell me that they spent time with dying loved ones in hospital rooms while reading to them from the pages that I write, or stories from my books. A lady from Indiana drove across country with her husband to meet me when she was found to be completely free from a bout with breast cancer. If that doesn’t make you humble and thankful, nothing will. It feels pretty good to have had a bit of positive impact on humans who are suffering. Selling books is nice, but that’s the stuff that catches me off guard. I didn’t set out with any intention of helping someone with my poorly worded sentences.

To see that it did is humbling to me.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM YOUR NOVELS? WILL YOU BE INCORPORATING POLICE WORK INTO YOUR FICTION OR DO YOU PLAN ON GOING SOMEWHERE COMPLETELY DIFFERENT? Well, my first novel (in the works) is a bit darker than people might expect, maybe a bit more sarcasm from the characters. But humor drives me, so it will not be avoided.

My protagonist is a grumpy ex-cop who leaves the career field seeking solace in NOT being involved with anyone else’s problems. That doesn’t work out for him, even though he moves to an almost off-grid situation in the deep woods of Washington County. He surrounds himself with locals who he has been friends with for life, and trouble seems to seek him out. One of the main characters goes by the name Booger.

Let that sink in. It’ll be fun, funny, dark, sarcastic and the criminal activity will be based on much of what I have experienced as a successful homicide investigator, polygraph examiner, and Mainer who loves Washington County, Maine.

I hope I can pull it off. If it doesn’t sell well I’ll just go fishing. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 13

OBSESSIONS

OBSESSIONS WHAT WE CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF THIS MONTH.

LEARN

PLAY LEGO MODEL KITS

NPR LIFE KIT PODCAST

WHY DO WE LOVE IT? Call it nostalgia. Call it a second childhood. Whatever it is, several months back I re-discovered the delights of playing with Legos. Those multi-colored plastic interlocking bricks of various shapes and sizes are every bit as fun as I approach retirement as they were before I was school-age. The only real difference is the breadth and scope of what’s available. At some point over the last five decades or so, Lego added model kits based on space exploration, movies, pop culture and more. I’ll admit to first scoffing at the idea of Legos that come with step-by-step build instructions.

Where’s the fun and imagination in that? Turns out, there are plenty of both. So far I have recreated the city of Paris and three dinosaur skeletons. Next up is Darth Vador’s meditation chamber from the Star Wars movies franchise and on deck is the Apollo 11 lunar lander.

WHY DO WE LOVE IT? The NPR Life Kit podcast is the perfect listen for anyone who is on a mission for selfimprovement.

The podcast tackles one topic in-depth every week, from waking up early to deciding whether to freeze your eggs, and gives you tips on how to apply the tips in your own life. Life Kit even has specific subcategories for episodes dealing with certain topics like health, money and parenting if you are looking to focus your learning.

— SAM SCHIPANI

LISTEN “IN THESE SILENT DAYS” BY BRANDI CARLISLE WHY DO WE LOVE IT? I can’t stop listening to Brandi Carlisle’s most recently released album “In These Silent Days.” I am a longtime fan of Brandi Carlisle, and this, her seventh studio album, is chock-full of heartwrenching apology ballads, melancholy love songs and toe-thumping country-folk romps that I have come to expect from the singer-songwriter, but with an air of maturity that can only come from the experience and success that Carlisle has earned over the course of her career.

— SAM SCHIPANI

14 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

PHOTOS: (TOP) ©NINAMALYNA, ©JES2UPHOTO, ©STOCKPHOTOGRAF , ©ANATOLIY SADOVSKIY, ©KARANDAEV/ADOBE STOCK

— JULIA BAYLY

WEAR

READ

STEGMANN WOOL CLOGS WHY DO WE LOVE IT? I have not taken my Stegmann wool clogs off my feet since I purchased them at Reny’s a few months ago. They are unbelievably cozy, but also have ample arch support that keeps my poor deformed feet comfortable and supported all day long. I already have the EcoWool clogs, made from sustainably sourced wool, on my wishlist for next year, once I inevitably love my current pair to death.

— SAM SCHIPANI

Every month, many new books cross my desk. I purchase even more. Here’s one that I particularly enjoyed and recommend.

“AN OCEAN OF MINUTES” BY THEA LIM — In a sweeping novel that alternates between the early 1980s and late 1990s, “An Ocean of Minutes” by Thea Lim explores themes of love, loss and hope through a tale of time travel.

In the early 80s, a pandemic-level flu sweeps the globe. But the advent of time travel means that some can head to the future as workers, in exchange for treatment for their loved ones. Polly goes to save her love, Frank. But by the time she lands, she’s five years later than planned and Frank — who vowed to wait for her — is nowhere to be found. As she struggles through life paying back her debt, Polly aims to find Frank and discover if their promise was kept. This is a smooth novel that reads quickly. But it’s also one that you’ll find yourself lingering on, considering all the things it brings up and suggests. (FICTION) — SARAH WALKER CARON

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 15

FOOD & DRINK

IN SEASON NOW

Warm SALADS

BY SARAH WALKER CARON

TIRED OF ALL the mashed potatoes, stews and roasts that seem ubiquitous this time of year? By the time mid-January rolls around, that’s usually how I am feeling too. And when that feeling descends, it’s tempting to buy the expensive grocery store strawberries just to taste a hint of summer.

But you needn’t do that when there are other, better ways to embrace the warmer months and foods.

For instance, if you put up any vegetables from the summer, now is the time to dig in. Defrost those peas, crack open those tomatoes and pull out those frozen berries. Work them into dinners, smoothies or wherever they fit into your eating.

You can also make summery food seasonally appropriate with a little shift in thought process.

What I am getting at here is that salad isn’t just for summertime.

Sometimes I feel like it is (perhaps you do too), with all its crisp coolness. But then I remember: salads can be warm too. And a warm salad is like a friendly embrace from someone who wants the best for you.

Indeed, warm salads are perfect for this time of year. Flavorful bowls bursting with vegetables, these are filling but light, warm but refreshing. And they can be made in so many varieties.

Here are three warm salads perfect for perking your tastebuds up this winter.

Enjoy!

BALSAMIC ROASTED BEET QUINOA SALAD Serves 4

INSTRUCTIONS INGREDIENTS 2 large beets, small diced (about 3 cups) 1 small sweet potato, small diced (about ½ cup) 3-5 carrots, small diced (about 1 cup) 2-3 small onions, small diced (about 1 cup) 2 Tbsp olive oil salt and pepper, to taste 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar ½ cup dried quinoa, thoroughly rinsed 1 cup water

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Add the beets, sweet potato, carrots and onions. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stir well. Roast for 35-40 minutes, stirring a few times, until tender. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and roast for an additional 10 minutes.

In a small saucepan, combine the quinoa and water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until all the water is absorbed.

Remove from heat.

In a mixing bowl, stir together the roasted vegetables and quinoa. Taste, and season as desired with salt and pepper.

Serve hot or cold, with an additional drizzle of balsamic vinegar, if desired.

CHICKEN SOUVLAKI SALAD

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS Marinated Chicken: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice 1½ Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tsp dried oregano ½ tsp kosher salt ½ tsp black pepper

Salad: 1 package romaine hearts, torn into bite-size pieces 1 cup halved grape tomatoes 1 cup diced cucumber ¼ cup pitted kalamata olives ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Vinaigrette: 1 shallot, peeled and minced 1 lemon, zested and juiced 1 tsp dijon mustard 1 Tbsp honey ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil salt and pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

PHOTOS: (MEALS) SARAH WALKER CARON; (OTHERS) ADOBE STOCK

Place the chicken in a resealable bag. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, kosher salt and black pepper until well combined. Pour over the chicken, seal the bag and marinate for at least 3 hours.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit with a grill pan in the oven. Once hot, add the chicken and cook, turning once, for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through. Remove from the oven carefully.

Meanwhile, assemble the salad by layering the ingredients in four bowls. Cut the chicken into slices and divide evenly among the bowls.

In a small bowl, whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients. Drizzle over the salads. Serve immediately.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 17

FOOD & DRINK

LEMONY STEAK AND VEGGIE CHOPPED SALAD WITH RAMEN Serves 2 (large portions) or 4 (smaller portions)

INGREDIENTS 1 cucumber, thinly sliced and quartered 1 green pepper, diced 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved 1 shallot, chopped 1 ear corn, cooked 1⁄3 lb steak, cooked and thinly sliced 1 lemon, juiced 1 Tbsp olive oil salt and pepper, to taste 1.8 oz package ramen noodles, prepared (noodles only)

INSTRUCTIONS In a large bowl, add the cucumber, green peppers, tomatoes and shallot. Cut the kernels from the corn cob and add to the bowl (discard cob). Stir well to combine.

Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine. Add the steak slices and cooked ramen noodles and toss again.

Let sit for five minutes, then toss again. Serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.

SARAH WALKER CARON is the editor of Bangor Metro Magazine and the author of five cookbooks including the “Easy Frugal Cookbook,” released in July. Her book “Classic Diners of Maine” is available where books are sold. Signed copies are available at The Briar Patch in Bangor.

18 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 19

HIKE ME

GLIDE through

WINTER XC SKI ON TOP NOTCH TRAILS STORY & PHOTOS BY AISLINN SARNACKI

SQUATTING ON A snow-dusted pine branch, a red squirrel chatters loudly at the crosscountry skiers passing below. Startled by the noise in an otherwise quiet forest, the skiers crane their necks to look for the source. Through dark branches and bundles of long, green needles, they catch sight of the creature’s fluffy russet tail, wagging with irritation.

Lucky for the territorial squirrel, it isn’t long before the skiers are out of sight. Their long skis gliding smoothly over the groomed trail, they soon emerge from the dense forest to trace the edge of a frozen lake.

The sun is dazzling — and would be blinding if the skiers hadn’t thought to wear sunglasses. Its rays reflect off the snow and ice, setting the landscape aglow. A vibrant blue sky stretches overhead, not a cloud in sight.

Swish, swish, swish. The skiers make the lightest of sounds as they travel along the trail, their poles stabbing into the snow for purchase and balance.

At trail intersection, they prop their backpacks on a fallen tree to retrieve hot-chocolatefilled thermoses and home-baked cookies. During the quick break, they refer to a trail map and double-check their route. Then it’s back to skiing, the constant movement keeping them warm and comfortable as they explore the snowy wilderness.

Cross-country skiing is one of many popular winter sports in Maine, and it’s enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Throughout the state, trails are designed and groomed specifically for the activity. Here are just a few top notch trail networks to get you started.

BAIT HOLE RECREATION TRAILS

NEAR MILLINOCKET EASY TO MODERATE Located just outside downtown Millinocket, the Bait Hole is a public recreation area that features several miles of trails that are groomed for crosscountry skiing. The trails lead through a peaceful mixed forest to the shore of Elbow Lake, where you can enjoy views of nearby mountains, including Katahdin, Maine’s tallest mountain.

The largest loop in the trail network, the Bait Hole Loop, is wide and nearly 3 miles long. In the winter, it’s groomed to feature at least two parallel classic cross-country ski tracks. While traveling the loop, you can take short cuts or explore side loop trails to reduce or increase the distance of your adventure from 1 mile to 8 miles.

The trail network was named after the pond west of the trailhead, which was once stocked with bait fish. Points of interest along the trails, which

are marked on the posted trail maps, include the foundations of an old boathouse and an old steampowered sawmill, a vernal pool and beaver dams.

The trail network is managed by the Northern Timber Cruisers. Dogs are not permitted. Access is free, but donations are gratefully accepted to help with maintenance.

For more information, northerntimbercruisers.com, email chrmg66@gmail.com or call 207-723-6203.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95, take Exit 244 and drive west on Route 157-Route 11 for about 11 miles to reach downtown Millinocket. At the light, turn left onto Katahdin Avenue. Drive 0.3 mile, then turn right onto Poplar Street (Route 11). Drive 3.1 miles, crossing the Golden Road along the way, and the parking lot will be on your right.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 21

HEALTH & FITNESS

HIKE ME

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK CARRIAGE ROADS

ON MOUNT DESERT ISLAND EASY TO CHALLENGING When snow conditions permit, nearly 32 miles of the carriage roads in Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island are designated to be groomed by volunteers for cross-country skiing. These wide, smooth trails circle around scenic ponds and travel along the slopes of mountains to offer stunning views of the park.

In addition, ungroomed carriage roads and unplowed park roads are open to cross-country skiers. However, keep in mind that ungroomed trails can be more challenging. Also, snowmobiles are permitted to use most of the unplowed park roads, so keep an eye out for them.

All of the groomed ski trails in Acadia are connected, but there are a few different parking areas to access different points in the vast network. For example, those wanting to ski Paradise Hill or around Witch Hole Pond should start at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center. While skiers who are interested in the Hadlock Loop or Amphitheater Loop should park at the Brown Mountain Station, which is farther south on the island.

All park visitors are required to purchase an entrance pass and display it on their vehicle windshield.

Passes can be purchased online and at various visitor 22 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

centers and entrance stations at different times of year.

It’s $30 for a seven-day private vehicle pass and $55 for an annual pass.

Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash not exceeding 6 feet at all times. Dogs should also be kept off ski tracks, since their paws can quickly ruin them.

For more information and to purchase a pass, call 207-288-3338 or visit nps.gov/acad. For a map of the cross-country ski routes, select “Visiting in the Winter” under the “Plan Your Visit” tab.

DIRECTIONS: There are multiple parking lots for the cross-country ski trails in Acadia. Among them is the Hulls Cove Visitor Center parking lot. To get there, after crossing the causeway onto MDI, veer left where the road splits by the convenience store, remaining on Route 3.

Drive 7.8 miles and the road will become two lanes. Stay in the right lane and turn right to enter the park. You’ll soon come to a stop sign. Turn right to drive to the large parking lot at Hulls Cove Visitor Center. A short trail leading to the groomed carriage roads is located at the west end of the parking lot.

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB TRAILS

NEAR GREENVILLE EASY TO CHALLENGING The Appalachian Mountain Club grooms approximately 80 miles of cross-country ski trails in the Moosehead Lake Region. The vast network is located on 66,000 acres of forestland that has been conserved by AMC, and it links three of the organization’s Wilderness Lodges, where skiers can stay overnight and find home-cooked meals.

A winter trail map of the network labels the groomed trails as easy, intermediate or difficult. There’s something for everyone. The crosscountry ski trails also lead to snowshoeing trails, including a trail that scales Indian Mountain and the famous trails that explore Gulf Hagas.

The options for adventure are numerous.

When visiting these trails, keep in mind that the network is vast, remote and spread out. Many of the groomed trails close to the winter parking area are labeled on the map as green, which means “easy.”

However, expect a few hills.

Trail access is free. Dogs are permitted. Make a reservation to eat or stay overnight at the three AMC Wilderness Lodges.

For more information, visit outdoors.org ​​ or call 603-466-2727.

DIRECTIONS: The AMC Winter Parking Lot is located on the KI Road outside of Greenville. To get there from the traffic light in the center of Greenville, drive north one block, just past Northwoods Outfitters, then turn right onto Pleasant Street. After 2 miles, the road becomes gravel and the name changes to the KI Road. Continue 11 miles to the AMC Winter Parking Lot.

AISLINN SARNACKI is a columnist for the Bangor Metro and a registered Maine Guide. An expert on the Maine outdoors, she’s the author of the guidebooks “Dog-Friendly Hikes in Maine,” “Maine Hikes Off the Beaten Path” and “Family Friendly Hikes in Maine.” Follow her adventures at bangordailynews.com/outdoors.

You can also find her @mainenaturehikes on Instagram and @1minhikegirl on Facebook and Twitter.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 23

HOME & FAMILY

HOW-TO

MAKE YOUR OWN

VALENTINE’S BOX DIY A FUN & MEMORABLE PRESENT STORY & PHOTOS BY KATIE SMITH

VALENTINE’S DAY IS A TIME to remind loved ones how much you care. It’s also a great time to tap into your creativity and make a unique, memorable, homemade Valentine.

A Valentine’s box goes above and beyond making homemade cards (which are so fun to make and receive), and are great for anyone in your family. These also make great gifts for friends, teachers and anyone else you want to show your love and appreciation to.

These boxes are easy to make, and only require a couple of materials you can source at your local craft store. The fun part is you can also customize these boxes. The outside of the can be painted and decorated, and you can put any kind of candy, gift card or special little gift nestled inside the flower border.

24 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

WHAT YOU’LL NEED: • A box deep enough to display flowers in the upright position.

• Supplies to decorate outside of the box if you’d like. Paint, glitter, markers for cute little notes ... the options are endless.

• Faux flowers. How many depends on how many you need for your box.

• Floral foam to keep your flowers upright.

• Candy for the center. I used chocolate balls to stuff the center of my box but anything in a pretty wrapper will do.

• Wire cutters to cut flower stems to height.

• Optional: A gift card or small gift to hide under the candy.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR VALENTINE’S DAY BOX: 1. Decorate your box however you’d like and let it dry completely.

2. P ut the floral foam in the bottom of your box, and clip your flower stems with wire cutters so they fit nicely in the box. Line the box by sticking the stems in the foam.

3. I f you are going to add a gift card, or small gift, put that in the center.

4. C over the gift by stuffing your candy in the middle of the roses. You can stack this in neat lines, or simply place it in the center.

5. C lose the box and give it to your Valentine.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 25

HOME & FAMILY

A Guiding HAND HOW A MENTOR CAN BENEFIT YOUR CAREER THIS YEAR

N

o matter what you do for work, having someone to bounce ideas off of is a valuable asset.

Whether it’s figuring out what to wear, where the Keurig’s located or how late you should stay, it’s nice to have a colleague who’s been around a while show you the ropes. Plus, if you’re in a field with particularly high burnout, consulting people who know how to manage work-related stress may help save your sanity.

Beyond remaining balanced, there are several awesome benefits to having a mentor this year.

MENTORS GIVE YOU GOOD FEEDBACK Often, the only reaction you receive about your performance comes in the form of evaluations. Your supervisor may observe you for a small portion of time, then generate a long list of all the ways you do or don’t measure up.

Ironically, even though evaluations are tools to help employees improve, these experiences can feel more deconstructive than constructive.

26 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

Having another person on staff informally observe you before you have a formal evaluation helps you work out the kinks ahead of time. Plus, most mentors are well-versed on how to give feedback in a helpful way. They know how to begin with the positives before jumping into what needs work. And, they won’t leave you hanging with nonspecific critiques like, “Just fix it.” By offering their own tried-andtrue approaches, mentors provide practical suggestions to your work dilemmas. So, when you frequently invite a mentor into your workspace, then you frequently reap the benefits of their wisdom.

It’s a win-win.

MENTORS HELP YOU WORK SMARTER Any job can be isolating when you’re doing it by yourself, especially after the changes that came with the onset of COVID-19. In a time when many people are still working from home, sharing your struggles with another professional who understands the daily drudgery of managing your time and workload from your kitchen table is invaluable.

Collaborating not only helps improve your own mental health, but it actually makes you work smarter, not harder.

Take, for example, Ken Blanchard’s business motto. Blanchard is the cofounder of “The Ken Blanchard Companies,” an international management and consulting firm. In one of his many motivational speeches Blanchard advised, “None of us is as smart as all of us.” The same philosophy applies to the mentor/ mentee relationship. Your mentor can help you figure out how to tackle big projects, be more efficient with your time and accomplish shared goals.

Truly, two heads are always better than one.

MENTORS ENCOURAGE A GROWTH MINDSET Because the emphasis is on the process, having a mentor allows you to admit that you’re not perfect. It gives you a safe space to say, “Hey, I need some help here.” This real, ongoing dialogue between colleagues creates an authentic opportunity for reflection and growth.

PHOTO: ©MONKEY BUSINESS/ADOBE STOCK

BY EMILY MORRISON

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When you find something that is or isn’t working, you can share it with your mentor.

And in turn, when your mentor discovers what is or isn’t helpful, he/she can share it with you.

In this way, you learn from each other.

Reporting out your successes and failures gives you accountability, just like having a workout buddy makes it easier to hit the gym. Knowing someone else cares about how and what you’re doing makes it easier to reach your goals. This shared responsibility helps keep you on track when those distractions and moments of chaos threaten to sabotage your efforts.

MENTORS KEEP YOU FROM BURNING OUT The biggest benefit to having a mentor this year is a bit of no-brainer: encouragement.

Who isn’t exhausted right now?

Doctors, nurses, first responders, essential workers, teachers, parents, psychologists, business owners, caregivers and the list goes on — everyone is feeling the burn. That’s because the pandemic has created a new kind of burnout that challenges the mental wellness of us all.

Sometimes all you need is someone who will listen to you. Mentors may not be able to solve all of your problems, but really, who can? The difference between experiencing burnout and feeling reenergized comes down to one factor: having another share the load. Isn’t that all anybody can do?

A thinking partner, a coffee-mate, company for your misery, this can make the difference between saying, “I don’t got this” and “I got this,” all year long.

So, if you’re looking for honest feedback, smart advice, a growth mindset and someone to save you from the abyss, consider working with a mentor. And don’t forget to thank them. Mentoring is a thankless job that’s both underpaid and under-incentivized. You may need a mentor to complete your certification, but mentors are already licensed experts. They give their time and talent because they enjoy helping others, not for the money or side-benefits.

There is no money and side-benefits.

There’s just you and your gratitude, so keep it coming.

And cheers to a sane, happy, productive new year!

Your listing could be on this page.

Sell it faster.

Advertise in Bangor Metro’s Home section.

Call 990-8000.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 27

Let us CELEBRATE you!

MARK A SPECIAL OCCASION

WITH YOUR OWN MAGAZINE! Have a special event, anniversary, expansion or celebration you’d like to mark with a dedicated magazine special section?

Share your story by having your magazine inserted in the Bangor Daily News, Bangor Metro magazine and having copies available to hand out to your clients and staff.

We can help with content, photos and ad sales.

Call Laurie Cates at 745-2419 or email lcates@bangordailynews.com for details and rates.

28 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

Senior Living A special section devoted to Maine’s senior community

Tracing Your Family Tree Staying Fit as You Age

PHOTO: ©WAVEBREAKMEDIAMICRO/ADOBE STOCK

GENEALOGY FOR BEGINNERS & A TALE OF UNEXPECTED FINDS

EXERCISES TO KEEP MOVING & GROOVING AT ANY STAGE

And... Checking Off Your Bucket List HOW TO MAKE THOSE LIFELONG DREAMS A REALITY

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 29

Senior Living

Tracing Your Family Tree A TALE OF UNEXPECTED FINDS

N

STORY AND PHOTOS BY ANNE GABBIANELLI

apoleon Bonaparte bankrupted my family in 1814 by convincing them that paper money had no value so they switched to silver coins. I have an ancestor who built the Catholic Church resting on a hill in Winn, Maine. Oh, and my great grandmother was kidnapped by the Gypsies when she was a little girl, and her father — who was a Major in the British army — took his entire regiment into the Gypsy camp to rescue his little girl.

It is amazing the tales you can learn when working on your family genealogy, and I believe I still have much more to learn on my endless journey of piecing together my lineage. What I have ascertained goes far beyond submitting a DNA sample to determine from what part of the world my ancestors came.

My quest to learn more about my roots began in 1976 while creating a family genealogy for a college course assignment. Little did I know this assignment would linger on all these years later, and yet still offer amazement with every faded and tattered document I review and every email exchange I have with family.

I dove into the college assignment with the help of my parents: my mother, Jane Crozier of Irish/Scottish/French Canadian descent, and my father, Peter Gabbianelli of Italian descent. My mother was a keeper of documents and ancestors’ wills and was quite up to date, including writing in the family Bible. I have many of these original documents in my possession now.

“

OH, AND MY GREAT GRANDMOTHER WAS KIDNAPPED BY THE GYPSIES WHEN SHE WAS A LITTLE GIRL... IT IS AMAZING THE TALES YOU CAN LEARN WHEN WORKING ON YOUR FAMILY GENEALOGY.

”

Annie Gabbianelli uncovered many family stories and treasures while studying her genealogy, including (top) a photo of her grandfather Francesco (Frank) Gabbianelli in his cobbler shop, her parents’ marriage certificate (above) and a photo of Mary (Crozier) Gormley with the author’s mother Jane as a baby.

30 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

The Gabbianelli side was well documented by a relative in Italy who clearly mapped out a tree showing my grandfather’s family dating back to the 1700s, and my mother’s handwriting is seen throughout as the tree grew over the years. Mom was good at staying up to date as she learned more of the history for both her side and dad’s side of the family.

To bring the Gabbianelli side even further up to date, my aunts wrote to relatives in Italy seeking information. I have read their translated letters that span my grandfather’s family of eight children and the great story of Napoleon. On my grandmother’s side — Pierina Malchiodi — I have many documents with her first name spelled a variety of ways.

A letter from a cousin says Pierina’s parents were married in 1880, however, there was no documentation of her grandparents.

I referred to some translation websites to help me with the documents written in Italian, and I reviewed an Ellis Island website thinking my paternal grandparents came to America via Ellis Island only to discover I was wrong. Boston was the entry point.

Efforts to learn more about my mother’s side of the family have not been as easy to follow as she had multiple families. My mom had been referred to by some as an orphan, yet I never considered that because she had family everywhere. Mom was born in 1918, and her mother’s death certificate reads Jane Knox Muir Crozier died of the Spanish flu a month after giving birth to my mother. How ironic to discover during the current pandemic that the 1918 pandemic impacted my family.

My mother had an older brother who was raised by their father in Vermont, yet my mother was shared among her aunts. First on her father’s side and later on her mother’s side who tended to her higher education (mom was a nurse like her mother). All the correspondence I have seen and stories I have heard show how greatly loved she was.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 31

Senior Living

GENEALOGY 101 FEELING INSPIRED?

CHECK OUT THESE PRO TIPS TO GET STARTED DISCOVERING YOUR OWN FAMILY HISTORY

BY NANCY BATTICK

READY TO DIVE INTO YOUR FAMILY’S PAST and explore genealogy? Here’s a list of tips to get you started on your journey.  Begin by speaking with family members and family friends. Memories fade over time and aren’t always correct but don’t miss the chance to learn these stories before they’re gone.  Make notes on all you remember about your family origins.  Decide how many generations you want to cover. Starting with Jamestown in 1607 for example is much more work than beginning with your great-grandparents.  Review documents such as family bibles, diaries, letters, bills, etc.  Keep your various family lines organized by downloading free pedigree charts and family group sheets at www.ngsgenealogy.org/free-genealogy-resources.  Note where you found your information. You may need to recheck sources.  Include photos and humorous or interesting stories.  Use free genealogical sites such as FamilySearch.org and Ancestry.com (at local libraries). Check www.cyndislist.com for thousands of resources. If you need to research on a paid site, ask for a month’s membership or a trial period so you can cancel once your search is over.  Other good sources include libraries, historical societies, genealogical groups, town/city directories, town reports and newspapers.  On Ancestry.com you can track your family at 10 year intervals through the U.S. Censuses.  Maine vital records (birth, marriage, death) are at town clerk offices, on Ancestry.com and at the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention in Augusta. There are state regulations on who can access vital records so find out what you need before you visit.  Be wary of online family trees. Don’t trust until verified.  Ancestor naturalized? The 1910 U.S. Census lists the date immigrants came to the U.S. and the 1920 census lists the naturalization date. The National Archives holds many, but not all, naturalization records.  Watch out for other families with the same surname. Be sure you’re researching the correct family line. For example, think of all the John Smiths in New England alone. It’s easy to get confused.  Don’t worry about grammar or spelling, just write down your story. If writing is scary, try telling your story into a recorder.  Don’t give out information about living persons without their permission.  If you run into a long-held family secret how will you handle it? All may be dead but I advise do nothing that will hurt or embarrass descendants.  Finally, have fun with your project and research. When you’re done you can write an essay, a book or a photocopied bound document and then share your labors with your family and the future.

32 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

Her academic years were spent in New Hampshire with the Gormley family (a Crozier aunt married a Gormley) and her summers in Millinocket, Maine with the Corrigan family (another Crozier aunt married a Corrigan). So my research involves the Muirs and Croziers from St. Agathe going back to the mid-1800s. It also includes the Gormley family (originally from Ireland) and the Corrigan family (originally from Canada) and all their branches.

Over the years, I have called on my older sister to fill in some blanks and my cousins for support. Close to 20 years ago, my cousin, Bill (Corrigan) Lewis, introduced me to various genealogy software programs and websites such as familysearch.org, rootsweb.com, 23andme.com, tribalpages.com and more.

He taught me about numerous other venues including The Maine State Library which has a substantial collection of genealogies, town histories and vital records; local libraries including the Bangor Public Library’s genealogy department and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Bangor. Most recently, he installed a program on my computer which details marriage records for the State of Maine.

There are so many valuable resources beyond the popular ancestry.com.

Another cousin, Bruce Muir in Vermont, also regularly shares the most detailed stories via email of my maternal grandmother’s lineage. His storytelling is captivating — including the Gypsy story and a recollection shared with him about George Knox Muir (my great grandfather) attending his 30-year-old daughter’s funeral in Montpelier, Vermont. Bruce writes, “Being a Presbyterian (following Scottish religion), he returned home and did state with a great deal of grief, that she (my grandmother) must have ‘turned Catholic’ as she had a Rosary in her hand at the wake.”

My mother always teased me when I was a child about how she got me from the Gypsies. It was a little joke, yet I never knew my family really had a Gypsy encounter. No doubt more stories will be told as I continue my family genealogy project. After all, I have over 300 years of material I am sifting through and multiple families I’m aiming to connect to my family tree as I thirst to learn more each day.

Story originally published in the Senior Living special section of the Bangor Daily news on October 1, 2021.

Among the finds Anne Gabbianelli discovered while researching her family, a photo of her grandmother Jane Knox Muir Crozier RN and her death certificate from 1918.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 33

Senior Living

Checking Off

Your Bucket List HOW TO MAKE THOSE LIFELONG DREAMS A REALITY

T

COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE

he phrase “bucket list,” though undeniably related to “kicking the bucket,” definitely sheds a brighter light on the topic of mortality.

A bucket list is a plan for living life to its fullest and prioritizing opportunities to engage in all sorts of activities. A bucket list can be made at any point in life and is not exclusive to individuals facing their own mortality. Here are some tips for putting bucket list plans into action. · STOP AND THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU REALLY WANT TO EXPERIENCE IN YOUR LIFETIME. Leave factors like money or proximity out of it. No ideas are off-limits.

This is your opportunity to brainstorm, and nothing is too crazy or silly. · WRITE THE BUCKET LIST IN A COMFORTABLE OR INSPIRING PLACE, which may help ideas flow more freely. The place might be a cozy nook at a bookstore or a quiet spot on the beach.

· DIVIDE THE BUCKET LIST BY TIME. Are there items you can check off in a particular season, such as skiing the Alps? If your bucket list involves moving to a bustling city, determine if you’d like to do that after your children have reached adulthood or if you want to expose them to city life as youngsters. Categorizing the list by periods of your life can make it easier to prioritize certain activities over others. · DETERMINE IF EACH BUCKET LIST ACTIVITY WILL BE A SOLITARY OR JOINT PURSUIT. Various activities are more enjoyable when shared with others, but some you might be more inclined to do alone. · SET ASIDE A BUDGET FOR FUNDING BUCKET LIST ACTIVITIES. Bucket lists may include some costly activities, so start saving now so money does not stand in your way. Open a savings account specifically for funding bucket list excursions and set up automatic deposits.

Bucket lists can encourage people to live life to the fullest and it’s never too early to get started on a list of your own.

34 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

PHOTOS: ©9DREAMSTUDIO, ©PAUL PRESCOTT, ©YAKOBCHUK OLENA, ©LEV DOLGACHOV/ADOBE STOCK

· CHOOSE THINGS THAT ARE MEANINGFUL TO YOU, as well as ideas that are frivolous and fun. Make your list a mix of each, and don’t take yourself too seriously.

www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 35

Senior Living

Staying Fit as You Age EXERCISES TO KEEP MOVING & GROOVING AT ANY STAGE OF LIFE — AND FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME

L

ooking to kickstart your fitness routine but aren’t quite ready to join a studio or gym? You don’t need a lot of equipment or space to get into great shape at home. It just takes a little ingenuity, motivation and planning. Plus, thanks to technology, you can enjoy many gym features — including some of your favorite classes — from the comfort of your living room.

Picking up a regular fitness habit helps your cognitive function, your mood, heart health, blood pressure and digestive system, as well as your bone density. It also can help improve your strength, balance and flexibility, cutting back on the risk of falling.

“Exercise benefits you from your brain to your toes,” said Dr. Michelle Toder, a surgeon who is board certified in obesity and bariatric medicine, and who serves as medical director for Northern Light’s weight loss programs.

GETTING STARTED While sneaking extra activity into your day — like parking your car farther away from a store entrance or taking the stairs instead

BY WENDY WATKINS

of the elevator — is a great idea, it shouldn’t be counted as part of your exercise routine.

“This is about setting aside a minimum of 30 minutes most days of the week, when you put on your workout clothes and you go as hard as is possible and reasonable for you,” Toder said.

The American Heart Association recommends getting at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity — or a combo of both — per week. Plus, the association recommends getting in at least two totalbody strength-training workouts per week.

That’s the amount of exercise needed for basic health benefits. If weight loss is a goal, the amount of necessary exercise climbs to 300 minutes per week, or 45 minutes a day, said Toder.

She also advocates getting outside for that exercise whenever possible. “Being outside really lowers stress levels, lowers your heart rate and it’s good for mental health,” she said. Plus, it can help boost vitamin D levels, which is important for keeping your immune system strong.

TRYING NEW WORKOUTS When it comes to the format of your home workouts, the sky’s the limit thanks to the internet.

Some Maine gyms and studios are offering streaming services, bringing training and classes from their facility into your living room. Many personal trainers and fitness coaches are also offering custom workout training via applications such as Zoom.

Not only that, but there are also thousands of workouts available for free via YouTube. Just type in what you’re looking for — such as “low impact cardio workout” — and you can test out a free workout.

These can be a fun and easy way to try out new styles of workouts without the intimidation factor of being in a classful of other seasoned exercisers.

Wendy Watkins is a fitness and wellness coach in Bangor and the author of “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Losing 20 Pounds in 2 Months.” Story adapted from a piece published in the Senior Living special section of the Bangor Daily news on October 1, 2021.

STRENGTH TRAINING EXERCISE IDEAS — WITH MINIMAL EQUIPMENT NEEDED If it’s been a while since you’ve worked out, it’s best to start doing a little less than you think you should. Starting slow can help you avoid soreness and burnout, allowing you to stay motivated for the long term. Always listen to your body and be sure to get your doctor’s okay before starting a new workout program.

36 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

PLANK

PHOTO: ©PROSTOCK-STUDIO/ ADOBE STOCK

Repeat entire sequence for a total of 1-3 times through.

TRICEP DIPS

LUNGES

 10 SQUATS  10 PUSHUPS (YOU CAN DO THESE STANDING WITH YOUR HANDS ON THE WALL OR KITCHEN COUNTER)  10 LUNGES EACH SIDE  10 ONE-ARM BENT-OVER DUMBBELL ROWS  10 STEP-UPS EACH SIDE  10 OVERHEAD DUMBBELL PRESSES  10 BICEPS CURLS  10 TRICEPS DIPS  30 SECOND PLANK

SQUATS

Start with light dumbbells and add weight as you become stronger.

MOBILITY ISSUES? NO PROBLEM. CHECK OUT THESE EXERCISE IDEAS! COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE

Using resistance bands and doing chair exercises are ways for individuals with limited mobility to fulfill their weekly physical activity goals.

In November 2020, the World Health Organization released new exercise guidelines for people of all ages. Adults should get between 150 and 300 minutes a week of moderate to vigorous aerobic activity, and that includes older adults and those with chronic conditions or disabilities.

Individuals with limited mobility due to age or medical conditions may wonder how they can meet those guidelines. But even brief periods of exercise can pay dividends, and there are various approaches people can take to work around mobility and other issues.

EXPLORE CHAIR EXERCISES Just because you are seated doesn’t mean you can’t get a workout in. Seated chair exercises can work various muscle groups. Seated arm rows, tummy twists, overhead arm raises, hand squeezes with a tennis ball, inner thigh squeezes, leg lifts and extensions, and many other exercises can be customized to be performed in a chair.

WORK OUT IN THE WATER Exercising in the water can assist with movement and reduce strain on the body. The Arthritis Foundation says the water’s buoyancy supports body weight, which minimizes stress on joints and can alleviate pain. Water provides gentle resistance as well — up to 12 times the resistance of air. That means it’s possible to build strength and muscle even just walking or swimming around a pool.

USE RESISTANCE BANDS Resistance bands are like giant rubber bands that can be used to build up strength and flexibility. Resistance bands can be used in lieu of hand weights for many exercises and be ideal for those who find barbells and dumbbells are challenging to maneuver. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 37

PERSONAL FINANCE

Adopting New Technology

BIT by BIT CRYPTOCURRENCY ISN’T JUST FOR TECH BROS ANYMORE

W

hen it comes to technology, I’m not exactly what you would call an “early-adopter.”

I used a flip phone until 2015.

My mom bought me a Kindle a few years ago, and I basically used it as a wishlist for the books I would eventually buy physical copies of until, inevitably, I lost it (sorry, Mom).

This past year, I finally transitioned from using a pen-and-paper planner to keeping track of my days with Google Calendar.

I still hate it, though I am much more frequently on-time.

As cryptocurrency — basically, a digital currency made up of data instead of dollars where the value is determined by the supply and demand within its network rather than a government entity — emerged on the financial scene about a decade ago, to say I was disinterested would be an understatement. I was terrified. I didn’t even get a credit card until I was 26, for goodness sake.

38 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

Now these invisible units of code with meme-related names are worth thousands of dollars and can be exchanged like cold, hard cash? My luddite heart could never.

I may not have a choice, though. Michael Seymour, exchange desk advisor at Luxolo Financial in Portland, said that utilizing cryptocurrency is all but inevitable in modern society.

“As more of commerce and society is driven by digital technology, simply participating will require owning and spending cryptocurrencies,” Seymour said.

“Even though there are still some dramatic price fluctuations ahead in the short term, the long term value for Bitcoin continues to appreciate. Nations and corporations around the world are investing in Bitcoin. It is redefining global commerce.”

Seymour may be biased given that he works in the field, but cryptocurrency has its clear advantages. It is separate from monetary policy, so it is hedged against

inflation or political instability (but a bad investment or a nasty hack could lead you to lose everything, with no bank to back you up). Cryptocurrency is also not controlled by any government or financial institution, so it cannot be impounded, confiscated or restricted from its owners.

There are risks, though. Cryptocurrency can fluctuate in value thousands of percent over a short period of time for seemingly no reason at all. Over time, though, Seymour said we will see that volatility even out — as we have with financial assets throughout history.

“Cryptocurrencies are quite a lot more volatile than other assets but that’s a perspective of time,” Seymour said. “When stocks were first being issued there was that same kind of extreme volatility.”

Not all types of cryptocurrency are created equal, either. While meme-able cryptocurrencies like Dogecoin and Shiba Inu can be risky, longer-standing cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have been some of the best per-

PHOTO: ©REDPIXEL/ADOBE STOCK

BY SAM SCHIPANI

forming investments over the last decade.

“There is so much more value invested in Bitcoin, it’s already starting to stabilize,” Seymour said. “In general, now that Bitcoin has in excess of a $1 [trillion] valuation and ever increasing adoption by individuals, institutions and governments alike, the global Bitcoin marketplace is signaling long term strength, stability and longevity.”

Plus, with that risk comes the possibility of reward.

“There’s no other asset class where you can see 100,000 percent gain over the course of the year,” Seymour said. “That happens regularly with crypto.”

Ok, fine, I’ll bite. How does a girl get her hands on some Bitcoin?

Seymour said the first step is to get a cryptocurrency “wallet,” a web-based or smartphone app secured by a username, password and two-factor authorization.

Apps like Atomic Wallet and Exodus Wallet are easy to use for beginners.

Then, buy some cryptocurrency. There are a number of different types to choose from. Bitcoin is the most popular, but Seymour said that he also deals with Ethereum, and there are many others to choose from if you’re feeling experimental — high risk could yield even higher reward, after all.

You can buy cryptocurrency by going to a Bitcoin ATM. Maine Bitcoin LLC has kiosks around the state where you only need to show up with cash and your digital wallet. You can also buy from companies online like Swan Bitcoin and Coinbase, though such platforms often come with their own fees and set-up instructions.

Don’t be intimidated by the big price tags, either. You can buy a fraction of a unit of cryptocurrencies, up to eight decimal places.

Seymour said that a “practical” starting investment in cryptocurrency would be “about $500” if you want to see some real returns, but first-time investors in

cryptocurrency should only put in what they can afford to lose.

“For some people that’s going to be $10 and honestly that’s enough,” Seymour said. “$10 gets you an account set up with some kind of exchange or some app on your phone and you start to see how things work and you can pay closer attention to market activity that gives you enough confidence to try a little more.”

Once you have cryptocurrency, you can use it to pay for goods or services, as an increasing number of small merchants and large businesses are accepting Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency payments. You can also hook up with a service like Luxolo to help you invest your ‘coin further.

Or, if you’re like me and you’re just getting your toes wet, you can just keep a little Bitcoin in a wallet on your phone and see how the investment grows over time.

If I can figure out Google Calendar, I can certainly figure out this. www.bangormetro.com BANGOR METRO / 39

FEATURE

Hit the

SLOPES PLAN A FAMILY SKI ADVENTURE IN MAINE STORY & PHOTOS BY AMY ALLEN

WITH SO MANY SPORTS and activities canceled last winter, our family discovered a silver lining: lots of time to ski. We love downhill skiing but it’s a time commitment — nearby Hermon Mountain is a solid half-day activity and if we want to venture further, it’s anywhere from all day to a full weekend or more.

Last winter was a rare opportunity to travel the state and hit the slopes with a slower schedule, lots of snow and remote schooling we could take on the road.

This winter, we’ve got our fingers crossed for more snow and a long season to visit even more new-to-us sites. My daughter, a freshman, recently joined the Hampden Academy ski team and we’re excited to follow her around the state and check out some new mountains.

Here are a few of our favorite family-friendly hills and mountains to check out for yourself — and a few bonus ones we’ve got our eyes on this winter.

On a clear day, the views from Hermon Mountain stretch for miles, including nearby Hermon Pond.

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HERMON MOUNTAIN Hermon’s become our home hill — it’s minutes away and just big enough to keep everyone entertained but small enough that I feel comfortable letting the kids go off on their own with friends (and bonus — that means I get a little skiing me-time). The main trails are very beginner friendly, with the exception of Cloud Nine that offers a steep drop in to let you carry some speed into the tamer lower half of the trail.

If you’re brand new to skiing (or snowboarding) and looking for lessons for you or the kids, I can personally vouch for the amazing and affordable lessons being offered at Hermon Mountain. There are private, semi-private and group lesson options.

Teaching kids to ski is back-breaking work — somehow the instructors at Hermon made it look easy and had our kids up and snowplowing in no time. They came out much stronger and more confident skiers — plus the lessons include some bonus free-ski time at the end. It’s fun to see how much they improve each week.

BONUS! Tubing at Hermon Mountain is tons of fun. A ticket includes a three-hour session and a tube.

Ride the lift up and tube down the 600-foot, slightly U-shaped slope for guaranteed squeals and laughs.

HERMON MOUNTAIN STATS VERTICAL DROP: 350’ LIFTS: 1 DOUBLE CHAIR TRAILS & GLADES: 20 (BEGINNER: 30% • INTERMEDIATE: 35% • ADVANCED: 35%) TERRAIN PARK: 1 SNOWMAKING? YES NIGHT SKIING/RIDING? YES TUBING? YES RENTALS & LESSONS AVAILABLE? YES ADULT FULL-DAY TICKETS: $55 LOCATION: 441 NEWBURGH ROAD, HERMON FOR RATES, TRAIL MAP AND MORE: SKIHERMONMOUNTAIN.COM

It’s a good day at Hermon Moutain when you get to ride the coveted pink chair.

FEATURE

CAMDEN SNOW BOWL A little over an hour from Bangor, Camden Snow Bowl is conveniently located and has a little something for every skier.

The mountain’s tagline is Ski the Sea — trails are cleverly dubbed with ocean-themed names like Spinnaker (the longest trail at 1 mile), Windjammer and Mussel-Ridge — and for good reason.

The ocean view from the top is stunning, overlooking the islanddotted Penobscot Bay. The mountain offers two chairlifts, plus a carpet lift for newbies.

The lift to the right is a long one, heading up 850 feet to a pretty steep descent and several intermediate and black diamond trails and glades. The day we were there, it was freezing cold — which is my favorite kind of skiing weather (though not my favorite kind

of chairlift weather), making the trails fast and fun. To the left, a shorter double lift will drop you off at the top of a couple of easier, wider trails, where my younger son and I enjoyed taking it a little easier but getting in lots of runs.

BONUS! Don’t miss the 31st Annual U.S. National Toboggan Championships! The 2022 event is scheduled for Feb. 11-13. The toboggan chute is 400-feet long and rises 70 feet in elevation, which means toboggans can reach speeds up to 40 miles per hour. The run-out sends sleds onto frozen Hosmer Pond. Did I mention anyone can form a team and sign up? Start planning your costume now!

The ocean view from the top of Camden Snow Bowl is unlike any other ski mountain view we’ve experienced.

CAMDEN SNOW BOWL STATS VERTICAL DROP: 1,070’ LIFTS: 1 TRIPLE CHAIR, 1 DOUBLE CHAIR, 1 SURFACE TRAILS & GLADES: 26 (BEGINNER: 20% • INTERMEDIATE: 70% • ADVANCED: 10%) TERRAIN PARKS: 1 SNOWMAKING? YES NIGHT SKIING/RIDING? YES TUBING? COMING SOON RENTALS & LESSONS AVAILABLE? YES (ADVANCED NOTICE REQUIRED FOR RENTALS) ADULT FULL-DAY TICKETS START AT $35 LOCATION: 20 BARNESTOWN ROAD, CAMDEN FOR RATES, TRAIL MAP AND MORE: CAMDENSNOWBOWL.COM 42 / BANGOR METRO January/February 2022

QUOGGY JO SKI CENTER As a Presque Isle native, this is my home turf — Quoggy Jo is not only where I learned to ski, but where I learned even bigger life lessons about community involvement. My parents, like my grandparents before them, donated countless hours volunteering, doing maintenance work and running the snack shack. By extension, my brother and I spent whole winters at the mountain growing up.

Now, in all fairness, “mountain” might be a bit of an overstatement — Quoggy is more hill than mountain, making it the ideal spot to learn to ski. My husband and I took our kids for a taste of nostalgia last winter, discovering the old rope tow (which required serious upper body strength, special gloves and a guaranteed rope burn along the side of your parka) had been replaced with a T-bar — a major upgrade. Improvements have also been made to the trails on the far left and right of the hill, offering a little more variety, speed and even a terrain park. But overall, it’s the same family-friendly hill I so fondly remember. And you can’t beat the price — just $12 for a day pass.

BONUS! Because it’s still run by volunteers, it’s got a pretty rocking snack shack.

Don’t sleep on the homemade goodies and meals. And watch their Facebook page for announcements of lots of family-friendly fun events like barbeques, movies, fireworks, bonfires and more.

BIG ROCK While in The County last winter, we pointed our skis toward Big Rock Mountain in Mars Hill. It may seem a little off the beaten path, but I promise it’s well worth the drive.

And clocking in at just over two hours from Bangor, it’s doable as a daytrip. It had been years since my husband and I last skied Big Rock, and not only were we impressed with how much it’s expanded in the past few years, but the kids absolutely loved it.

Big Rock’s main chairlift is not for the faint of heart — it’s sky high and leads to Comet, a trail that’s equally steep coming down. But it’s wide and fun if you’re looking to pick up a little speed. If you’d rather leave those faster trails for someone else, Big Rock has expanded in recent years to add a second lift to the right of the mountain leading to a pleasant swooping beginners trail and a fun terrain park.

BONUS! Big Rock also offers a massive 800-foot-long tubing park. There’s a handle tow and wide lanes with “some rollers giving the riders the feel of a roller coaster,” according to the website. The kids made us promise to get back there to check it out this year.

QUOGGY JO STATS VERTICAL DROP: 215’ LIFTS: 1 T-BAR TRAILS: 8 (BEGINNER: 100%) TERRAIN PARKS: 1 SNOWMAKING: NO NIGHT SKIING/RIDING: YES TUBING? NO RENTALS & LESSONS AVAILABLE? YES (AND LESSONS ARE FREE!) DAY PASS: $12 LOCATION: 420 FORT ROAD, PRESQUE ISLE FOR RATES AND MORE: SKIQUOGGYJO.ORG

BIG ROCK STATS

Big Rock Mountain is easy to spot from a distance as it’s topped with 28 massive turbine windmills.

VERTICAL DROP: 980’ LIFTS: 1 TRIPLE CHAIR, 1 DOUBLE CHAIR, 1 SURFACE TRAILS & GLADES: 29 (BEGINNER: 10% • INTERMEDIATE: 69% • ADVANCED: 21%) TERRAIN PARKS: 1 SNOWMAKING: YES NIGHT SKIING/RIDING: YES TUBING? YES RENTALS & LESSONS AVAILABLE? YES ADULT FULL-DAY TICKETS START AT $45 LOCATION: 37 GRAVES ROAD, MARS HILL FOR RATES, TRAIL MAP AND MORE: BIGROCKMAINE.COM

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SUNDAY RIVER

Each of Sunday River’s peaks offer sweeping views of Maine’s impressive western mountains.

I took one of the gnarliest falls of my skiing career at Sunday River last winter (I even lost a contact in the process and had to ski the rest of the way down half-blinded), but it didn’t take too much away from what was otherwise an incredible trip. I have fond memories of the ski resort from growing up and racing there in high school, and I was eager to share it with my family.

Sunday River boasts eight interconnected peaks and 135 trails way out in western Maine, so an overnight stay is the way to go. We took a couple of days, staying at the Grand Summit hotel, which offers ski-in/ski-out access to the mountain (highly recommended!), from the peak to the furthest left. My daughter and I mapped out a plan to traverse across the entire mountain range and back, weaving our way up and down each peak and getting distracted by a few particularly fun trails, terrain parks and a food truck serving waffles.

BONUS! Besides the great restaurants and pubs offering lots of apres ski fun and the convenience of ski-in/ski-out slope-side hotels (and a heated outdoor pool!), don’t miss the “chondola.”

The line may be long, but it moves pretty quick — and how often do you see a chair lift-gondola hybrid? Pop into the enclosed gondola cabin and enjoy scenic views and a slightly warmer ride up to the top of North Peak.

Sunday River’s chondola (part chair lift, part gondola) is a pretty unique way to travel up the mountain.

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SUNDAY RIVER STATS VERTICAL DROP: 2,340’ LIFTS: 18 TOTAL (1 HIGH-SPEED CHONDOLA, 4 HIGH-SPEED QUADS, 5 FIXED QUADS, 3 TRIPLE CHAIRS, 1 DOUBLE CHAIR, 4 SURFACE LIFTS) TRAILS & GLADES: 135 (BEGINNER: 30% • INTERMEDIATE: 36% • ADVANCED: 18% • EXPERT/DOUBLE BLACK DIAMOND: 16%) TERRAIN PARKS: 5 SNOWMAKING: YES NIGHT SKIING/RIDING: YES TUBING? NO RENTALS & LESSONS AVAILABLE? YES ADULT FULL-DAY TICKETS START AT $52 LOCATION: 15 SOUTH RIDGE ROAD, NEWRY FOR RATES, TRAIL MAP AND MORE: SUNDAYRIVER.COM

Where We’re Looking Forward to Skiing in 2022 My daughter ran screeching through the house as the first few flakes fell from the sky — “It’s SNOWING!” We’re just a little excited to see the snow pile up and hit some new slopes this winter.

Here’s what we’ve got on our list to check out this season.

SADDLEBACK MOUNTAIN We heard great things from friends who made the trek to Rangeley to check out the newly revived Saddleback Mountain last winter.

Saddleback first opened in 1960 with a single T-bar, growing significantly over the years until it went up for sale in 2012.

Negotiations got complicated, sales fell through and the mountain didn’t open in 2015 — and remained closed until just last season.

Now Saddleback is back and visitors have rave reviews. We’re excited to check out all the trails, the terrain parks and the incredible views of western Maine and the surrounding frozen lakes. Sure, it’s a hike to get there (about 2.5 hours from Bangor), but we know it will be well worth the trip.

SADDLEBACK STATS VERTICAL DROP: 2,000' LIFTS: 6 (1 HIGH-SPEED QUAD, 2 QUAD CHAIRS, 1 ROPE TOW, 1 T-BAR, 1 SURFACE LIFT) TRAILS & GLADES: 68 (BEGINNER: 34% • INTERMEDIATE: 29% • ADVANCED: 26% • EXPERT/ DOUBLE BLACK DIAMOND: 10%) TERRAIN PARKS: 2 SNOWMAKING: YES NIGHT SKIING/RIDING: NO TUBING? NO RENTALS & LESSONS AVAILABLE? YES ADULT FULL-DAY TICKETS START AT $40 LOCATION: 976 SADDLEBACK MOUNTAIN RD, RANGELEY FOR RATES, TRAIL MAP AND MORE: SADDLEBACKMAINE.COM

SUGARLOAF

SHAWNEE PEAK

My kids have yet to ski Sugarloaf and I’m yet to hear the end of it.

It’s been a few years since my last adventure there (a birthday trip for some spring skiing and the Loaf’s annual Reggae Fest — highly recommended), but as arguably Maine’s most famous ski mountain, it really speaks for itself. Sure, it’s usually packed, but there are so many lifts (13!) and trails (162!) and restaurants … oh my!

It’s not exactly budget-friendly, but as a Maine resident you can get some major discounts if you time it just right or pick up a 4-Day Pass.

And there’s something about being part of the Sugarloaf skiing community while you’re there that makes it extra fun and special.

There are plenty of extras, like fat biking, cat skiing (where you hitch a ride on a snowcat and get dropped in Sugarloaf’s Eastern Territory for some expert-only glade skiing — as in off-trail, ungroomed skiing through the woods). For the grown-ups in the crowd, I recommend a stop at Bullwinkles — the on-mountain restaurant off Windrow Trail with amazing views and a wide selection of bloody marys — it’s a pretty great way to break up the day.

We drove by Shawnee Peak on our way to Cranmore Mountain in North Conway, New Hampshire (also lots of fun for the whole family) two years ago and we’ve been talking about going back ever since. It’s a beautiful hill that slopes down toward Moose Pond in Bridgton, and claims to be the longest operating ski resort in Maine.

We might have to make it an overnight adventure, as Shawnee Peak also lays claim to offering the most night skiing in New England. There’s something extra special about skiing under the yellow glow of trail lights and the moon and seeing the slopes all lit up. Shawnee Peak’s night skiing (starting at 3:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday plus holiday Sundays) offers four lifts servicing 19 trails, lots of special events and racing, and apres ski at Blizzards Pub.

SUGARLOAF STATS

VERTICAL DROP: 1,300’ LIFTS: 6 (1 QUAD, 3 TRIPLES, 2 SURFACE LIFTS) TRAILS & GLADES: 47 (BEGINNER: 25% • INTERMEDIATE: 50% • ADVANCED: 25%) TERRAIN PARKS: 3 SNOWMAKING: YES NIGHT SKIING/RIDING: YES TUBING? NO RENTALS & LESSONS AVAILABLE? YES ADULT FULL-DAY TICKETS START AT $61 LOCATION: 119 MOUNTAIN ROAD, BRIDGTON FOR RATES, TRAIL MAP AND MORE: SHAWNEEPEAK.COM

VERTICAL DROP: 2,820’ LIFTS: 13 (2 HIGH-SPEED QUADS, 3 QUADS, 5 DOUBLES, 1 TRIPLE, 2 SURFACE) TRAILS & GLADES: 162 (BEGINNER: 23% • INTERMEDIATE: 34% • ADVANCED: 27% • EXPERT/DOUBLE BLACK DIAMOND: 16%) TERRAIN PARKS: 4 SNOWMAKING: YES NIGHT SKIING/RIDING: NO TUBING? NO RENTALS & LESSONS AVAILABLE? YES ADULT FULL-DAY TICKETS START AT $53 LOCATION: 5092 ACCESS ROAD, CARRABASSETT VALLEY FOR RATES, TRAIL MAP AND MORE: SUGARLOAF.COM

SHAWNEE PEAK STATS

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If the

SHOE FITS

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STEP OUT WITH SNOW-SHOEING THIS WINTER

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BY JOANNA O’LEARY

PHOTO: KESU/ADOBE STOCK

his winter calls for adding a new pair of shoes to your collection. Not boots (though infinitely practical) nor slippers (oh-so-comfy) but rather something useful and fun: snowshoes.

Yes, ’tis the season for outdoor trekking and snow-shoeing is a glorious means of getting from point A to B against the backdrop of nature’s frozen splendor.

Snow-shoeing is too often discounted as the boring stepsister of skiing, ice skating and even curling (gulp), though its status as a “lesser” cold-weather sport is inaccurate and unfair.

Snow-shoeing is the OG form of cold-weather ambulation, with some scientists dating the first appearance and use of snow-shoes among Central Asian peoples approximately 6,000 years ago. It has been theorized that famed 3,500-year-old mummy Oetzi, aka “The Iceman,” had snowshoes with him. Unfortunately, however, they did not prevent him from dying from exposure.

In the United States, snowshoes were the favored transportation accessory of Native American tribes, and are credited with developing variations of the webbed form of the shoe with which many of us are familiar today.

But in addition to its “old-school” (understatement of the year) charm, snowshoeing has other salient virtues that can render it comparable or even preferable to other seasonal athletic pastimes. If you’re an endurance junkie/weekend warrior, rest assured that snow-shoeing provides one helluva workout, as it burns between 500 and 1,000 calories an hour depending on your weight, pace and grade of ascent. But unlike other winter sports, snow-shoeing is also relatively more affordable, with most models costing under $200 — far less expensive than the thousands of bucks required to invest in a good pair of cross-country skis.

GEARING UP If your interest in snow-shoeing is sufficiently piqued, here are the first steps (har) to getting started.

When selecting a pair of snowshoes, the most important question to consider is where you will primarily use them because models are designed differently depending on the terrain. Opt for a recreational style with simple bindings and moderate levels of sole traction (in the form of underside metal teeth or crampons) if you plan to snow-shoe on easier landscapes, such as rolling hills and well-trod forest trails.

However, if you’re venturing into more mountainous conditions with rugged terrain and steep, icy ascents, choose professional grade shoes with more secure binding and intricate sole traction. Such styles tend to be more expensive ($200-300) but the investment is well worth the enhanced safety and finessed mobility.

Binding design may seem like an afterthought but can literally make-or-break your experience. Consider also whether you will be wearing your snowshoes over regular shoes or bulkier footwear such as boots and modify accordingly. Strapping into your shoes should also be able to be completed, natch, while wearing gloves and other requisite cold-weather apparel.

Finally, remember that snowshoes should properly accommodate your height and weight; the taller and heavier you are, the wider and longer generally is the shoe.

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FEATURE To amplify the comfort factor of your snow-shoeing foray, you may also want to spring for a pair of balance poles with snow baskets to keep yourself steady, a weatherproof backpack in which to store extra socks, and gaiters to prevent snow from seeping into your boots.

Maine’s winter trails — like Reeds Brook Trails seen here, whether groomed or ungroomed, are perfect for snowshoeing.

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HEADING OUT Fortunately, Maine in winter abounds with opportunities to practice. Many rural dwellers have access to established trails in the vicinity of their homestead, but if you’re a city slicker and/or seeking a more destination snowshoeing mini-vacation, head to Woodward Point in Brunswick and Roberts Farm Preserve in Norway (both dog-friendly) or Mount Blue State Park in Weld, which boasts a series of routes ranging from easy to advanced. Another terrific spot is the Hammond Ridge Trail System near Millinocket. The system comprises around 14 miles of trails and also offers snowshoe and cabin rentals.

PHOTO: AMY ALLEN

FIRST STEPS Now that you’ve got the gear, it’s time to try strut — er, stomp — your stuff in the snow.

Stamping and edging are two components of basic snow-shoeing technique. To stamp, step lightly onto the snow leading with your heel and rolling then onto your toe as you transfer your weight. You can also move by edging, whereby you first plant the inside edge of your snowshoe, then roll across your foot sideways. This latter method is especially useful when climbing a slope sideways.

Another technique beginner snowshoers will need to master, and one that often proves trickier than expected is turning around without tripping over your own feet. Walking in a circle is an easy way to change direction, but you can also do so via a slightly fancier gesture known as a step turn, whereby you plant one snowshoe at a 90-degree angle in front of the other shoe to form a “T” before shifting your weight and bringing the other snowshoe alongside it to make a half-turn.

You can also make a full 180-degree rotation by completing a “kick turn,” and placing one snowshoe in the opposite direction to the other and having your body make a full turn. Like any sport, snow-shoeing with (relative) ease and grace requires practice. Be prepared to take some (hopefully gentle) spills while getting your bearings.

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FOUR WINTER DOG SPORTS TO TRY THIS YEAR

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BY JULIA BAYLY

old and snowy weather is no reason to leave your four-footed best friend inside. Instead, bring them along for a day of brisk outdoor fun.

When it comes to winter sports and your dog, there are some that can be fun for both of you. While these are not breed-specific dog activities, keep in mind that some dogs are built better for winter sports. You are not going to see a chihuahua, for example, romping naked in the snow. Those warm-weather breeds may need jackets or even special dog-booties to spend time outside in the winter.

Meanwhile, huskies and other nordic breeds have an affinity for cold conditions; it can be hard to keep them inside once the snow starts falling.

If you are interested in winter dog sports, here are four you can try right here in Maine.

SKIJORING This is among the most popular sports in Scandinavia and is growing in popularity in this country. The word itself is Norwegian and means “ski driving” and it combines the best of cross country skiing and dog walking. All you need is a dog — any size will do — outfitted with a special skijor harness that attaches to your waist with a skijor line and belt.

The idea is for your dog to run in front of you at a speed just fast enough to keep that line tight as you ski along behind. It’s important for your and your dog’s safety to maintain control of your dog at all times. You don’t want it to pull you off the trail in pursuit of a squirrel, other animal or other skiers. But when a dog is strong enough, that pulling can be a bonus when it comes to going up hills. Your dog should be trained to respond to basic commands including stop, stay and come back. Any dog who likes to run can skijor, but smaller ones won’t be able to pull you up those hills.

Many ski trails in Maine allow dogs on leads on designated trails. At New England Dogsledding in West Bethel, you can rent skijoring equipment and even get lessons to try out the sport for the first time on groomed trails.

CANICROSS Canicross is two activities in one — running and dog walking. It’s basically the same as skijoring, but without the skis. You use the same harness-line-belt set up to bundle up and go on a fun run with your dog. Make it a true winter canicross by adding snowshoes to the mix. Connecting a belt, harness and towline to your dog is going to increase your ability to negotiate snow-covered trails at a greater speed.

The beauty of canicross is wherever you can run or walk with your dog, you can canicross. You can take your dog on pet-friendly urban routes or woodland trails throughout Maine. Many organized foot races now include canicross categories.

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(Top) Jeff Brannen of Poland and his trusted English Pointer, Jack, participate in the one-dog adult skijoring speed class race at Sebasticook Valley Snowmobile Club.

(Left) Canicross requires little equipment and can be enjoyed year-round.

PHOTOS: (BACKGROUND) ©RITA KOCHMARJOVA/ADOBE STOCK; (TOP) BDN FILE; (MIDDLE) ©POLOLIA/ADOBE STOCK; (BOTTOM) KATHRYN OLMSTEAD/BDN FILE

(Below) Natalie Ireland enjoys skijoring with Whisper and Cheyenne on a Maine trail in Westmanland.

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FEATURE

(Above) A kicksled is hooked up to two eager pooches and ready to go.

(This photo) Bruce Langmaid of Blackstock, Ontario, drives his team towards the Allagash checkpoint during the Can-Am 250 Dogsled Race.

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DOG SLEDDING If you think kicksledding sounds fun, maybe you want to go all in and try out dog sledding or mushing as it is more commonly called.

Mushing requires a team of three or more sled dogs (including a trained leader who responds to directional commands), as well as a dog sled and all the lines, harnesses and related gear to connect dogs to the sled. You also need access to trails and a way to get your dogs and gear to and from those trails.

Although you might not have a team of dogs and gear at the ready, there are places in Maine where you can ride or drive a well trained and equipped dog team. Huskies and malamutes are by far the best breeds for mushing. They have been bred to pull heavy loads over long distances. Using other breeds to do the same thing can result in shoulder or other injuries to those

dogs. If you are going to mush, stick with nordic breeds.

For a full experience behind a team of huskies, check out Ultimate Dog Sledding Experience in Oxford. Experienced mushers will guide you on well groomed trails running through the Maine woods. To set up a tour, give them a call at 207-890-4393 or email ultimatedogsleddingexperience@ gmail.com. Costs range from the one-hour experience starting at $250 to a multi-day dog sledding experience starting at $750.

Having winter fun with your dog is one of the best things about living in Maine.

But it’s important to remember that you are responsible for your pet’s wellbeing. Not every dog likes to be outside in the cold and if your dog is one of those, don’t try to force it to do something it does not enjoy. Before heading out, check with your veterinarian to see if your dog’s breed has any specific needs when it comes to cold weather.

And, finally, make sure wherever you and your buddy are going, dogs are welcome.

PHOTOS: (INSET) ©IZI11/ADOBE STOCK; (BOTTOM) BDN FILE

KICKSLED A kicksled — a small chair mounted on skis — is also known as a “spark” from the Finnish word “sparka” for kick. While it may be tempting to sit and enjoy the ride, that’s not the point of a kicksled. It’s all about working out with your dog. With one or two dogs harnessed to a line attached to the front of the sled, you stand on the ends of the skis sticking out the back and, as the dogs pull, you kick along with one foot to help. Huskies and malamutes are the most common breeds used in kicksledding, though most medium or large dogs can pull a kicksled.

You can watch or try kicksledding free of charge with your dog out at the annual Winterpalooza in Rangeley on Feb. 20.

PHOTO: ©BRIAN GOODMAN/ADOBE STOCK

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WOODS & WATERS

Feeling FULL FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY, ACADIA HAS ATTRACTED VISITORS TO MAINE STORY & PHOTOS BY BOB DUCHESNE

ACADIA WAS THE FIRST NATIONAL PARK in the eastern United States, established over a century ago. It’s still the only national park in the northeast, within a day’s drive of 50 million people. In a way, it’s surprising that it took so long for Acadia National Park to feel congested.

America’s national parks are in perennial danger of being loved to death, and Maine’s own park is no exception. Acadia sets new visitation records almost every year, topping 4 million people in 2021. Inevitably, management procedures have changed over the years to accommodate increased use.

Long-time Mainers reminisce about a bygone era, when a visit to Sand Beach and Thunder Hole was free. But entrance fees have now been around for three decades. Last summer, the park’s exploding popularity on Mount Desert Island finally forced the adoption of a reservation system to visit the top of Cadillac Mountain, and this year marks the first time entry fees are also required in winter. Most of the fee revenue stays with the park, and there’s no question the funding is necessary to maintain the miles of roads and trails in a safe, accessible condition for so many users.

Change has come more slowly to the Schoodic Peninsula, Acadia’s mainland section of the park in Winter Harbor, but long-time Mainers might notice that subtle differences are starting to appear. Historically, the Schoodic Peninsula received only about 10 percent of the visitation that floods into Acadia each summer. But that is also changing.

The National Park Service manages the Schoodic Peninsula for lighter use than it does the more heavily-visited Mount Desert Island portion, but the biggest challenge is the same: traffic management.

For the first time last summer, signs popped up along the loop road, reminding motorists that parking in the right lane and outside of designated areas is not allowed. Metal stakes were added in

AMERICA’S NATIONAL PARKS ARE IN PERENNIAL DANGER OF BEING LOVED TO DEATH, AND MAINE’S OWN PARK IS NO EXCEPTION.

particularly vulnerable areas, protecting the turf from vehicle damage.

About half of the Park Loop Road on Mount Desert Island is one-way. Shortterm parking in the right lane of the twolane road is permitted in some places along the Bar Harbor side of the park.

It’s not permitted anywhere on the Winter Harbor side. New signs went up last summer, reminding motorists to park only in designated spots. Once upon a time, parking restrictions might have increased the traffic density, but visitors are finding the Island Explorer bus service to be truly convenient. There is abundant parking at the Schoodic Woods Campground and Ranger Station, where visitors can board the bus for all the popular spots at Schoodic Point. RVs and trailers are not allowed past Schoodic Woods anyway, so it’s the best option for many visitors.

Alternatively, maybe bicycles are the best option.

When the Schoodic Woods Campground was built, a system of off-road trails was added to the park, spanning 8.3 miles. The

wide, gravel-packed paths are easy to walk and ideal to pedal.

Schoodic Woods is the only campground in Acadia with full electrical hookups. There is ample space between sites. Small wonder that the campground is almost always full. There are no first-come, first-served sites. Getting a reservation requires persistence, but there is a method to it. Reservations become available two months in advance on a rolling basis. The best hope of getting a preferred site is to book online just as soon as the desired dates become available. The park website makes it easy to get information and connect to the online reservation system.

Despite the subtle changes now apparent in summer, not much has changed at Schoodic in winter. It’s still the place local Mainers go to watch the surf crash in turbulent weather. Visitors are

expected to have park passes — something that would have been problematic in previous years, since there is no park staff present in winter to sell them. Nowadays, there are many pass options available for purchase online. Many are discounted.

Some are free, including passes for active military personnel, people with disabilities, citizens doing volunteer service for federal agencies, and a special free program for fourth graders. As park usage has increased nationwide, pre-purchase of passes has become routine.

For those who hate change, one condition remains an immutable constant: there is just one winter bathroom on each side of the park. On MDI, heated flush toilets are located at the Fabbri picnic area, just beyond Otter Cliff on the Park Loop Road. At Schoodic Point, there’s a bathroom at the entrance to the Schoodic Institute. You’re welcome.

BOB DUCHESNE is a local radio personality, Maine guide, and columnist. He lives on Pushaw Lake with his wife, Sandi.

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Z j START SMALL & Go Big THE VIEW FROM HERE

BY EMILY MORRISON

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last ounce of enjoyment out of it. I’m not that bananas. Believe me. I’ve got plenty of bad habits that need kickin’ to the curb.

Those daily donuts aren’t doing me any favors and neither are my bi-yearly trips to the plastic surgeon. Lord, save me from my next round of botox. So yeah, I’ve got some vices left to lose, but I can’t lose them all instantaneously.

That’s just not how it works for me.

Maybe you want to stop spending so much money, or losing so much time on social media or allowing that toxic person in your life to suck all the joy out of your existence. I get it. Namaste my friend.

I see you. I am you.

I’m here to tell you that you’ve got time. You don’t have to do it all at once because January has rolled around, and it’s time to “make a change” Michael Jackson.

We’ve all been the man in the mirror before.

Sometimes what you need is the idea and a few good days in a row to follow it. You start rolling that tiny snowball into a little snow belly, and then a snow body, and the next thing you know, you’re doing it.

You’re making winter wonders happen all by yourself.

These days, my New Year’s resolutions have less to do with running miles on the road and more with spending time with my family, saying less swears and more prayers and taking care of my doggos.

Plus, I want to learn yoga and write a memoir.

Nothing too big or extravagant.

Basically, I want to be a better human, one who believes in the beauty of change and growth and helps others believe it too.

So, start slow and low and get going. Who knows? Sixteen years from now you might find yourself running everyday, hydrating with water instead of wine and living on plant protein.

Whatever your Grape Nuts are, go grab ‘em and start squeezing small changes into your life today.

PHOTO: ©RICKA_KINAMOTO/ ADOBE STOCK

I’VE NEVER BEEN BIG on keeping New Year’s resolutions.

Sure, I can come up with them, but I can’t seem to see them through.

For starters, I’m lousy at planning and self-discipline (two traits sorta essential for change).

I could lie and say I’m great at follow-through, but the truth is, I’ve always been the “idea” girl, not the “get ’er done” guy.

Because of this, I tend to make little changes that, if I stick with long enough, become big changes.

For instance, sixteen years ago I felt super unhealthy. I’d had a couple of babies back-to-back, and my post-baby body looked like my mid-baby body (halfway through pregnancy when people can’t tell whether you have a raging beer belly or a small human inside of you).

Emotionally, I was a hot mess. I couldn’t get control of my fluctuating moods, what with all the sleep deprivation, coffee consumption and wine guzzling.

So, instead of continuing to ride the stimulant-depressant rollercoaster, I started running.

At first, all I could manage was a few laps in the driveway.

Then I did a few more. And a few more. Slow and steady won the race and before a year went by, I’d signed up for my first half-marathon.

I survived 13.1 miles mostly unscathed, so I began training for a full marathon (26.2 miles). Surprisingly, I survived that too. So I signed up for another full. Then another.

Since then, I’ve run five half- and three full-marathons. In between training for races I run four miles a day to maintain my base.

But, if someone had told me sixteen years ago that I’d finish eight marathons and run four miles daily for fun, I’d have laughed in her face.

Nor would I have fathomed that five years ago this February would be my last drink of white zinfandel.

Or that a year ago this January I’d have my last meal with meat in it.

Now, I’m not telling you this to come across as some health guru who’s grabbed life by the Grape Nuts and squeezed every

z

EMILY MORRISON is a high school English teacher, freelance writer and editor from coastal Maine. She is living happily-ever-after with her handsome husband, three beautiful children and two beloved dogs. And a cat.