Spring is here, bringing festivities — and deals — along with it

March 21, 2000

Although the calendar would have us believe it is spring, some of the best skiing all winter is yet to be had. While white Christmases have become anything but definite in Maine, March is a record snow month, and additional April accumulations are likely in the mountains.

"Snowmaking provides ample snow coverage that lasts well into spring, so major ski areas will continue to have great skiing for several more weeks," said Greg Sweetser of Ski Maine. Ski areas have been known to close because of a lack of skier participation as often as for lack of snow.

What happens to the die-hard skiers who cue up at Portland's Ski & Snowboard Expo in late October? Where are these fanatics who flock to the slopes in November for a ribbon of man-made snow? Are they now dusting off their golf clubs? Is getting to the yard work that imperative?

We will have six snowless months to rake, plant and mow. Skiers and riders have only one month left to plant poles, and mow down moguls.

Spring brings out the best of recreational skiing, from eye-opening attire, to exceptional deals and special events. Resorts pull out all the stops to retain the dwindling number of ticket buyers.

To compliment reduced ticket prices, resorts cook up whacky festivals to celebrate the arrival of spring. Here are several of this season's entertaining events that will not be available again for eleven months.

Shawnee Peak, which, like other resorts has gone to weekend-only operation, will re-open for its free finale day, April 1. This is no April Fool's trick — skiing and riding will be free for the second annual Encore Day, which is a customer appreciation gesture.

Attitash Bear Peak celebrates April Fool's Day with the 7th annual On-Snow Golf Tourney. This unusual golf tournament is ideal for those who wish to commingle skiing with the next sporting season. The groomers convert one trail into a nine-hole par-36 snow course complete with elevated tee boxes, snow-walled greens and huge bunkers.

Teams of four are required to wear themed costumes and skis (minimum of 150 centimeters) or snowboards for the duration of the event. The cost is $20 per team and the format is "best ball." Prizes are awarded to winning teams, best dressed and closest to the pin.

Sunday River will play host to the 13th annual Bust N'Burn Mogul Competition on April 1-2. White Heat, heralded as the steepest, longest, widest trail in the East, is the venue for this bump-skiing rite of passage. Over two hundred amateurs are expected to test their knees and abilities starting at 9:30 am for Saturday's qualifier.

The top 32 qualifiers move on to Sunday's Great Eastern Shoot Out. The dual-format competition will include USSA-sanctioned pro mogul skiers from around the U.S. and Canada. The cash purse is $30,000.

"This is a really fun event to watch, from the zany antics of the amateurs to the really impressive pros," said Ryan Triffitt of Sunday River. Over a thousand spectators typically line White Heat for this fun event.

Sugarloaf's biggest gathering of the ski season has as much to do with music as skiing. Reggae Fest, April 7-9, is a spring ritual of bands playing island music throughout the resort.

While Reggae Fest fills the slopeside village, the lifts and trails are generally wide open. Many festival-goers never don skis.

The fun continues all through April at Sugarloaf, including a spring party April 15-16 and the traditional Easter costume parade April 23.

Sunday River's 6th annual pond skimming will take place on Easter weekend, April 22-23.

In keeping with tradition, May 1 is free skiing and riding for all.

When you do make the melancholy decision to hang up the skis, be sure to store them properly.

"Equipment should get a summer tune, " said Theron Murray of Joe Jones Ski Shop. "This includes a complete sharpening and tuning, plus turning down the bindings to rest the springs. A heavy coat of wax is applied to protect the skis.

"In the fall, customers can come back with their receipts and we will re-adjust the bindings, and remove the excess wax.

"Even brand new $800 skis can become burred, dry and rusted if not tuned properly at the end of the season," said Murray.

It is never too soon to think about next year.

Contact your favorite area for a pre-season deal. Purchasing a ski pass in July or August can save as much as 50 percent.

CONDITIONS: Skiers should be prepared to experience all kinds of variable conditions on the slopes this time of year. Often mornings start with groomed granular and hard icy moguls, which turn soft and slushy in the height of the day.

Mountain storms can also deliver perfect packed powder.

Get out and enjoy these last few weeks of the ski season — golf, biking and boating will be here soon enough.

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Gould freestyle skiers set for competitions

March 14, 2000

Jeff Yingling spoke to three eighth-graders at the Telstar school career day in Bethel.

"They thought being a pro skier sounded like a career worth looking into. I met Jackie and Marty that day," said Yingling. "I'm not sure what happened to the third student."

Jackie Paaso and Marty Odlin, seniors at Gould Academy, are ranked among the top five junior freestylers in the nation.

Yingling, a top freestyle competitor and a former member of the U.S. freestyle development team, came to Sunday River five years ago.

As Gould Academy's freestyle coach, he has brought the team to impressive levels and worldwide recognition.

Yingling stressed that the success comes from the well-rounded curriculum at Gould.

"We have catapulted to some great athletic levels, but we strive to keep a good balance. Our kids spend 10 to 14 hours a week on the slopes training, max. More than that is too much," he said.

"Our approach is not dependent on results, and we try not to place too much emphasis on the events.

"There is no disappointment if the focus is on training and doing your personal best. Then students can walk away from an event feeling proud and can have a normal school life away from the slopes."

Paaso, a 17-year-old senior, is one of Gould's prime examples. In lieu of preseason ski training in the fall, she played soccer for Gould.

"Jackie was not tunneled in to the ski season," said Yingling. "She was fresh when the season started. We find if there isn't too much emphasis on one thing, the students don't burn out midseason."

Passo ranks No. 4 in the nation, and specializes in moguls.

"It's been a whirlwind four years for Jackie with freestyle, mountain biking and soccer," said her mother, Diane Paaso. "We are just crossing our fingers for Jackie as she pursues her dreams."

Marty Odlin, originally from Portland, has received early admission to Dartmouth. He's ranked No. 5 in freestyle points. Passo and Odlin are in Italy with their coach, competing at the junior world freestyle championships.

Shortly after their return to Gould, the U.S. championships will be held March 20-26 at Sunday River.

"Hosting this national event in our backyard will be a huge opportunity for the team. The top 10 regional freestylers will be up against the World Cup team," said Yingling.

Passo and Odlin will compete at Sunday River with the best freestylers in the nation.

On the list of events: moguls, dual moguls, aerials and acro-ski. Acro-skiing has evolved from freestyle ballet. Competitors choreograph routines to music with required maneuvers and discretionary tricks.

Asked about the future of freestyle skiing, Yingling said, "Freestyle is very important to snow sports right now, and our kids are well-positioned.

"Technical events like moguls, dual moguls and aerials are well established now. These divisions are growing quickly while acro is fading out. Speed and big air will always be extremely popular.

"We are seeing a trend of the freestyle events joining forces with snowboarding's slope-style culture."

DEALS: Sunday River and Sugarloaf have $25 lift tickets for Mainers on Wednesdays throughout March. Starting March 20, midweek lift tickets at Burke Mountain in Vermont are $5.

EVENTS: Sugarloaf welcomes the best Masters-class racers in the nation for a week of downhill, Super G, giant slalom and slalom races March 16-24.

Mt. Abram hosts a giant slalom race for Maine restaurant employees March 18 and a snowboard challenge open to all March 19.

The last chance for night skiing at Shawnee Peak is March 17-18. The theme for Shawnee Peak's spring celebration March 25 is "beach party."

Pond skimming across a 30-foot pool of water is the featured contest, accompanied by reggae music.

Saddleback welcomes spring with the 18th annual Bronco Buster downhill challenge March 25-26. Anyone who can ski black diamond Bronco Buster top to bottom without stopping or falling wins three days of skiing.

CONDITIONS: While winter may be over in your back yard, Maine ski areas have strong base depths and there's great spring skiing to be had.

Coastal March rains usually mean more snow in the mountains. Several smaller ski areas have gone to weekend or Thursday-to-Sunday operations. Visit www.skimaine.com or call 773-SNOW for current operations and conditions.

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At CVA, students acquire skills for living and skiing

March 7, 2000

"We are all going to be 'former competitors' at some point," said Headmaster John Ritzo, when asked about how Carrabassett Valley Academy prepares students for real life.

"Here, our students have a passion. We support it and let them pursue it 100 percent. They will learn life's lessons in the process. Self-discipline will come from working at it, and esteem develops from doing their personal best both on the hill and in the class."

Speaking with Ritzo as we await the Superquad on a busy Saturday at Sugarloaf, his enthusiasm captures the attention of every skier and rider within earshot. "We are looking for kids who are passionate," he said.

Ritzo explained that he wants to defeat the impression that kids have to be championship material to enter the private school.

"We do not just create world-class skiers; we provide a world-class experience," he said. "The competitive skiing and snowboarding we offer are disciplines, and that is what gives these kids the focus to achieve their personal goals. Skiing or snowboarding is the vehicle to prepare these kids to do something meaningful with their lives."

A day in the life of a Carrabassett Valley Academy student begins with breakfast bright and early, as classes begin at 7:30 a.m. Structured class time, centering on a college-prep curriculum, continues until 9:30 a.m. The teacher-to-student ratio is 1-to-6, and academics are kept separate from athletics, where the coach-to-student ratio is 1-to-7.

After morning studies, students are bused up the 2-mile mountain road to Sugarloaf, where training takes place in the disciplines of Alpine, freestyle, Nordic or snowboarding, with each athlete's respective coach, until 2:30 p.m.

Sugarloaf is an essential ingredient to the success of the academy. Every day, the ski area devotes trail space for race training; and on prime revenue weekends, entire trails are roped off to allow for competitions. Sugarloaf's managing director, John Diller, enrolled his children at CVA.

"CVA is an integral part of our culture here at Sugarloaf, and we owe it to the sport to support these young athletes," said Diller.

Classes resume at the school's campus at the base of Sugarloaf's access road from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Dinner is a time for socializing and chores, including dish duty. Tasks around the school are shared, regardless of race results.

Ritzo said of all the students he has seen, those most willing to help are the ones who do the best athletically and academically.

U.S. ski team star Kirsten Clark "was great fun to have around, always eager to help out," he said.

The rigorous schedule continues with little time for television or video games, and it's back to the books for study hall from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

"These are high-octane kids. They can handle a whole lot," said Ritzo.

As for the potential conflict between traveling to competitions and completing school work, Ritzo said students sometimes have to pass up traveling to events if their grades are not up to par.

When asked about his role as headmaster in disciplinary issues, Ritzo said: "These kids are disciplined and passionate about why they are here.

"They are also risk takers. It is the nature of the sports they are involved with. But with the taking of those risks, they learn an important lesson of self-preservation. When you ski at 80 mph, you have a lot of respect for the dangers of driving 80 mph in a car."

Of the 100 students enrolled, most are from Maine.

"These are not your traditional private-school clienteles. For most parents, this is their first private-school experience, and they are making significant personal sacrifices to provide this experience to their kids."

With a 95 percent college-placement rate, Ritzo stresses to students that if they work hard and do their absolute best, they then will have options to do what they choose in college and beyond.

CVA has produced six Olympians in three disciplines. Only about 10 percent of CVA's students are likely to compete compete on the U.S. ski team or go on to a profession in competitive skiing. But the list of alumni is impressive and heavily weighted with Ivy League schools.

"I have never had any kid tell me in my 14 years that they did not get to where they wanted to go," Ritzo said.

DEALS: Every Wednesday in March, Sugarloaf will offer $25 lift tickets to Maine residents.

EVENTS: Loon and Bretton Woods in New Hampshire will welcome the country's top college Alpine skiers and riders and Nordic skiers for the U.S. Collegiate Skiing and Snowboard Championships Monday through Saturday. . . .

The country's best young competitors will compete in the Junior Olympics at Sugarloaf Monday through Sunday. . . .

The ninth annual New England Cystic Fibrosis Ski Challenge will be held Friday through Sunday at Attitash Bear Peak. Participants, alongside sports legends and celebrities, will "Ski for the Cure." The weekend fund-raiser includes races, a live auction and fireworks. Call 1-800-757-0203 for information.

CONDITIONS: Nearly two weeks of warm temperatures have resulted in some natural snow-trail closings. Snowmaking terrain remains well covered, and areas have started to receive the traditional March mountain snows. March is historically the snowiest month and, with longer daylight hours, this often is a great month to ski.

 

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Skiing group works for the handicapped

February 28, 2000

Kathy White was sponsored by Sugarloaf to travel to Breckenridge, Colo., in December for a week of racing and clinics with the U.S. team.

She had been training 11 years for this opportunity. White isn't a student of any racing academy; she's part of the Maine Handicapped Skiing program (MHS).

White, who has cerebral palsy, said, "I started skiing when I was 4, when I could not walk. Now I love to ski every day and I am on the able-bodied ski team at Mt. Abram High School."

"You can imagine we are very proud of Kathy's accomplishments," said Wendy Dunn, director of development and public relations for the Maine Handicapped Skiing program.

"She has taken on numerous challenges and developed so many strengths since her first days with MHS. Kathy is what we are all about - challenge, growth and fun."

MHS is a non-profit organization, headquartered at Sunday River. It consists of more than 200 students and 300 volunteers. It's the largest handicapped skiing program in the East, and a national leader in adaptive winter sports.

"What is truly unique about our program is that it is absolutely free to our participants. We provide everything so that our students can learn new skills, develop self-confidence and have fun," said Dunn.

The program provides daily lessons for 10 weeks each winter for anyone 6 or older with a physical disability. The 310 trained volunteers provide instruction in alpine skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and cross country.

Alpine lift tickets are donated by Sunday River. Cross country trail passes are compliments of the Sunday River Inn and Cross Country Center.

The Maine Handicapped Ski Center at Sunday River has a fleet of custom-made adaptive equipment, from outriggers to sit-skis, helmets, and clothing.

Skis and boots have been donated, sponsors have given adaptive gear, and much of the apparatus has been assembled by on-site technicians.

Chip Crothers, a Portland orthopedic surgeon, founded the Maine Handicapped Skiing Program in 1982, with assistance from Les Otten pf Sunday River. The program began with a part-time staff and eight students.

Crothers' goal was to share the freedom of movement enjoyed in skiing with patients. The Maine Handicapped Skiing motto is, "Give them the freedom to fly."

Four years ago the program expanded to include adaptive snowboarding. The following year Sugarloaf became involved with a weekend handicapped-skiing program.

"We had a 30 percent increase in lessons at Sugarloaf in 1999. We hope to see many more students participate this year at Sugarloaf," said Betsy Doyon, executive director of Maine Handicapped Skiing.

"With our daily schedule at Sunday River we are able to serve more people especially those who work or go to school during the week."

The program's fund-raiser will be held March 18. It will mark the 15th annual Ski-A -Thon. All are welcome to form a team of five people and gather pledges. Each team must raise at least $600 in pledges to take part.

The Ski-A-Thon kicks off with breakfast and turning in pledges. Free skiing throughout the day plus a fun race and slopeside lunch are capped off with dinner, dancing and an awards ceremony.

Prizes are awarded to teams and individuals who raise the most pledges. Ninety percent of the funds raised go to student services, thanks in large part to the event sponsors, AirCast, American Airlines and Sunday River.

"The volunteers are awesome. They are so caring and helpful," said White. "They are like my family."

The MHS organization is always looking for volunteers to help instruct, help in the office, or be a photographer or snowmobile driver. Instructors must be at least 18, with intermediate skiing ability or better.

Training takes place during three days in November or December. Volunteers need to donate 10 days during ski season.

To register for the Ski-A-Thon, become a volunteer or find out more about Maine Handicapped Skiing, call 824-2440 or check out www.skimhs.org.

EVENTS: There is a father/son race today at Mt. Abram. The mother/daughter race will be held March 5.

CONDITIONS: This past week's unseasonably mild temperatures made for ideal early spring skiing for vacationers. Maine Alpine ski areas are experiencing the deepest base depths and the most trails open in over five years. March is historically the best month for skiing, when milder, sunny days combine with the winter's accumulated snow.

After a slow start to the cross country season, Nordic ski centers are at or near 100 percent operation, reporting snow depths of 12 to 36 inches.

"It's been a decade since we've had such consistent powder snow," said Steve Wight, owner of the Sunday River Inn and Cross Country Ski Center.

 

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Shorter, shapelier skis shorten learning process for neophytes

February 21, 2000

"I was about to give up skiing altogether. I was tired of being stuck at intermediate, and my knees were so sore at the end of the day," said Robert Chisholm of Durham. "Then I tried these, and everything changed."

Chisholm pointed to his new boards. This 6-foot skier of 19 years traded in his 203-centimeter planks for a pair of 173-centimeter, shaped skis. His revitalized passion for the sport was obvious.

He is not the only convert to this new school of shorter, shapelier skis. Since ski manufacturers discovered that a more radical side cut means easier turning, skiers have been crossing over in droves. It cuts the learning curve in half.

New skiers are finding fun and comfort in their first hours on the slopes. Intermediate and more advanced skiers are discovering new levels of confidence and skill.

Ski teaching pros and students alike agree. The new, technologically advanced, shorter skis make learning to ski, or to ski better, easier than at any time in the history of skiing. Even racers are winning on them.

Shawnee Peak's Guaranteed Easy Turn program uses 123-centimeter skis.

"GET skiing has changed the learning curve entirely. The short skis remove the fatigue factor for new skiers. It used to take two hours for new skiers to get comfortable on the equipment. Now they are riding the lift within 45 minutes," said ski school director Scott Condon.

"Shaped skis are dramatically different than traditional straight skis," said Charles Rockwell of PSIA-East. "The long, stiff skis were not responsive. These shorter skis with shape to them are easier to carve and allow skiers to achieve the sensation of carving that the snowboarders have been enjoying for years now. Riding out an arc at 20 mph gives you the sensation of skiing at 40 mph," he said.

"The shaped skis turn with less effort, simply by rolling the ski on its edge. Boots no longer need to be so stiff and, as a result, ski boots are softer and more comfort-oriented," said Aaron Swerchesky of Putnam's Ski and Sport. "Start with a well-fitting boot, and we recommend a custom foot bed. Then the ski equipment follows. The manufacturers are all making great skis, and they all have some degree of side cut.

"We find out where a customer likes to ski and what their style is. Someone who skis with their feet together should have a ski with less of a side cut. Someone with a wider stance and an aggressive race style would benefit from a more dramatic shape," said Swerchesky.

Personally, I have been proud member of the esteemed 200-plus club for many years (200-centimeter skis or longer).Even my mother told me size does matter, and My family has all cruised on long boards.

When the Atomic representative at Sugarloaf's demo day last month glanced at my 5-foot-4 frame, he promptly handed me a shapely pair of 173-centimeter skis. I was tempted to hand them right back, but I gave them a run.

It was love at first turn. The skis felt as though they were a part of me. Applying the slightest pressure on my edges, the skis responded with a carved turn, no skidding or sliding. I am now aboard the new school bus.

Like snowboarding, this easy, carving, short-ski technology is a trend that is going to continue. Manufacturers and shops are not even carrying lengths over 198 centimeters. The 200-plus club may go the way of the single chairlift.

"Salomon is introducing a new pilot system with a binding that is part of the ski, so there is no need for mounting; it is manufactured as an integral unit," said Swerchesky. Lange is designing a "knee-friendly" boot.

Twin-tip skis, launched by Salomon's debutante "tenheighty," have gone from prototype to "must have" among free skiers. These shaped skis have an average length of 170 centimeters, and both the tip and tail are turned up. The design is reminiscent of traditional freestyle skis from the 1970s. Only nowthis time it features the radical side cut, allowing for easy maneuverability for those wishing to do tricks in terrain parks and pipes, including landing backwards.

If you want to get on board the new revolution or just try the ride, look for demo days at ski areas where representatives from major equipment manufacturers will set you up for a free, no-obligation test run. Most ski areas also offer guided demos and rentals on the new equipment.

EVENTS: Saddleback will hold its Ski to Cure Diabetes fund-raiser on Saturday. The Budweiser Aerial Assault is back in Maine. This world-class team of athletes, including Olympians and World Cup skiers and riders, will launch flips for the fans on Feb. 26-27 at Sugarloaf.

The Hannes Schneider Meister Cup is Saturday at Cranmore Mountain, bringing together skiing legends that include members of the 10th Mountain Division for a race and charity auction to benefit the New England Ski Museum.

CONDITIONS: Two major snow storms this week delivered more than 2 feet of snow in the mountains. Maine ski areas are now wide open with the best skiing and riding conditions of the season.

There is something for everyone, from recently opened glades to steep bump runs to perfect corduroy on the cruisers thanks to nightly grooming.

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It's smarter to let the ski experts teach your significant other

February 14, 2000

He's an extreme skier and former mogul pro, having starred in 12 Warren Miller movies.

She won the women's World Cup Pro Tour giant slalom championship in 1998.

Two expert skiers attracted to each other by their finesse on the slopes. Is this an ideal marriage or an Alpine power struggle?

In fact, Dan Egan and Michaela Fera-Egan of New Hampshire, like many couples, have "skiing issues."

Skiing side by side with your loved one can be exhilarating. Teaching your loved one to ski, however, can send your relationship downhill fast.

"It happens five or six times a weekend," said Scott Condon, ski school director at Shawnee Peak. "Invariably, after an hour of trying to learn from a loved one, they come in frustrated and looking for a lesson.

"In fact, during preseason we train our instructors on how to carefully break down what a friend or spouse has taught, and then get the new skier going with proper instruction."

The Egans, Dan and Miki (short for Michaela), conduct couples-only clinics to help resolve on-slope diff- erences. They welcome all intermediate and advanced skiers, and ensure that everyone will fit in. Co-authors of the book "All Terrain Skiing" and the video "The Chairlift Ski Guide," the Egans specialize in teaching couples of generally different ability levels to improve their skiing and make their time on the slopes together more enjoyable.

Dan and Miki first divide the group according to abilities to improve individual skills, focusing on stance and controllable acceleration. Then couples are reunited for ski adventures in a clinic format.

The theory is that in sports relationships, there is the more proficient leader and the less aggressive follower.

"We change the conversation within the relationship. By letting the skier in the passive role make the decisions, it changes the conversation from 'you can do it' to 'try this,' " said Dan.

One couple at a recent clinic stated that after 25 years of skiing together, "our whole skiing relationship changed and became more fun."

The Egans create a fun, non-intimidating atmosphere with lots of humor.

"Skiing brought Michaela and I together, and so we get a kick out of seeing other couples enjoying the sport as well," said Dan. "We are on a crusade to wipe out the recreational widow."

Couples clinics are offered at five resorts each season. Call Moguls Ski Tours at 800-666-4857 or visit (www.skimoguls.com).

Take it from the experts: Leave the teaching to the pros. Another suggestion to even the playing field is to try something new to both of you. Snowblades, evening snowshoe tours or tubing are a few alternatives now offered at Maine ski areas.

Six of the top 10 romantic ski resorts in North America are an easy drive from Portland. According to the contributors to Skiing America Guide Book, the top 10 resorts are: Sun Valley, Idaho; Quebec, Canada; Aspen, Colorado; Santa Fe, N.M.; Balsams Grand Resort, N.H.; Stowe, Vt.; Mont Tremblant, Quebec; Jackson, N.H.; Banff, Canada; and Mad River Valley, Vt.

These locales were selected for offering the perfect combination of dream-like atmosphere with beautiful lodging, cozy dining, charming towns and picturesque trails where couples can ski or snowboard together.

For a Nordic adventure together, L.L. Bean offers an outdoor discovery course at the Balsams in Dixville, N.H. Participants take part in expert-led sessions in cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and map and compass reading during the day concluding with four-star accommodations, cuisine and entertainment each evening at the historic resort. Call 800-255-0600 for dates and rates or visit (www.thebalsams.com).

EVENTS: Take a date to Shawnee Peak any nonholiday Monday from 4-9 p.m. and ski for $10 per person.

Lost Valley has a "sweetheart special" of two-for-one skiing from 6-9 p.m. on Feb. 14 and also will play host to its annual Mighty Mogul Challenge on the Bull Moose trail Feb. 19.

The Goodwill Games are in Lake Placid Feb. 17-20. These first-ever "strictly winter" sports games will be televised on the TNT network.

CONDITIONS: Prime mid-February ski conditions are now the rule at areas across New England. Maine resorts received more new snow this week and are in excellent shape for families for the upcoming Presidents Day vacation week. Ski areas have been able to cover their snowmaking trails with 3- to 4-foot base depths and dedicate prime snow and trail space to increasingly popular terrain parks.

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Salt Lake City gets ready to play host to Olympics in 2002

February 7, 2000

Feb. 8, 2002 marks the opening ceremonies of the next Winter Olympic Games.

Salt Lake City will play host to 3,500 athletes from around the globe competing in 70 medal events, and $2.8 billion is being spent in road improvements, new lodging and event venues.

Nearby ski areas have invested $200 million in speedy lifts, new trails, snowmaking and impressive lodges, just to be sure they are ready for their Olympic events and the world's visit.

Park City Mountain Resort will be the venue for men's and women's giant slalom and all snowboarding events. Having played host to World Cup events since 1985, this resort is no stranger to big events.

The Eagle Race arena is ideally located on Park City's lower mountain, offering excellent viewing for spectators. The trail names include "Picabo", which could serve as a good omen for the 1998 gold medalist.

"Having the Olympics come to my hometown is a dream come true", said Picabo Street. "I can't wait to introduce the world to some of the best skiing and riding in the Rockies at Park City Mountain Resort".

Visitors can enjoy Park City's 14 lifts, including four unique six-passenger quads covering 100 trails on 3,300 acres, all ready and waiting.

Just two miles away, Deer Valley will be the venue for the men's and women's slalom and combined slaloms on black diamond "Know You Don't". Freestyle skiing disciplines of aerials and moguls are located near the base. The "Champion" mogul hill is steep and peppered with enormous moguls and jumps.

Just last month, Deer Valley had the opportunity to test its new freestyle arena during a World Cup event. Joe Pack of New Hamphire won the inverted aerials.

Many of the best athletes, including favored defending champions Eric Bergoust of Montana and Michelle Roark of Colorado, took severe falls in practice on the Olympic-size jump.

In the moguls, Anne Batelle of Colorado and Evan Dybvig off Vermont each placed second. Today, Deer Valley will test the Olympic slalom hill during their first-ever women's World Cup slalom.

Snowbasin, located at the top of Ogden Canyon 55 miles north of Salt Lake, will be the site of six Olympic Alpine events: the men's and women's downhill, super-G and combined. Swiss gold medallist Bernard Russi designed the demanding "Wildflower" course for the signature event. This course is already being heralded among the top downhill courses in the world, in fast company with Kitzbuehel's Hannenkamm in Austria and Birds of Prey at Beaver Creek, Colo.

Having skied Snowbasin's downhill last month, I can verify the 2,770-vertical-foot course is extraordinarily steep and provides absolutely no letup.

Racers will reach speeds in excess of 90 mph along the 70 percent grade, with technical pitches and fallaway turns.

Last March, the first national championship was held on Snowbasin's women's course, and over half the men and women racers did not finish, including former Carrabassett Valley student Bode Miller of New Hampshire. The winner, Sugarloaf's Kirsten Clark, did not complete a practice run but did hold the course during the race in a dizzying 1 minute, 18 seconds. Chad Fleischer of the U.S. ski team won the men's event in 1:13.

Snowbasin will be the site of a World Cup downhill on Feb. 10, followed by a super-G on Feb. 12. Currently billing itself as Utah's best-kept secret, Snowbasin's 3,200-acre skiing and riding playground will soon be discovered globally with these televised races.

New lifts, including two high-speed gondolas, a quad and a summit tram, now access 3,400-feet of vertical chutes, glades and wide-open bowls. A new access road and tremendous day lodges are scheduled for completion in the next year at Snowbasin.

The new Utah Winter Sports Park, five miles west of downtown Park City, will be home to the Olympic bobsleigh, luge, ski jumping and Nordic combined. Prior to the games, the 20- and 40-meter jumps are open to the public; a two-hour lesson and jumping session is $30. The Park's bobsled and luge are also accessible for those looking for a thrill of a lifetime.

The balance of 18 Nordic venues will be at Soldier Hollow, 43 miles from Salt Lake in the Wasatch State Park. Here the biathlon and cross country events will involve 11 different courses over the 16-day games.

Fryeburg's Marcus Nash felt right at home here in Jan., winning his ninth national championship during the Chevy Invitational.

The Games need 18,000 volunteers. Online applications will be available starting in mid-March at www.slc2002.org.

This fall, 1.7 million tickets will go on sale at this same Web site.

If you want to preview the Olympic action, visit Utah now before the anticipated 10 billion world viewers get an eyeful in 2002.

THE MAINE WINTER Special Olympics will take place Monday and Tuesday at Sugarloaf.

CONDITIONS: Maine resorts received another major storm early this week, delivering up to a foot of snow to Mt. Abram, Sunday River, Sugarloaf and Big Squaw on Moosehead Lake. Lost Valley, New Hermon and Mt. Jefferson are now fully open.

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Daughter week blessed with snow

January 31, 2000

Hallelujah! The ski slopes finally got the major snowfall they have been waiting for since November, and all slopes are at or near 100 percent operation - just in time for the Snow Sports Association's third annual "Take Your Daughter to the Snow Week," Monday through Sunday.

Picabo Street, the organization's spokeswoman, says, "Spend a day on the snow with your daughter." This year, ski areas and shops nationwide are gearing up with unique deals to motivate those who Alpine, cross country, snowboard, or snowshoe to bring a daughter, sister, mother or grandmother to the snow. "Daughter Week is a tremendous concept and a terrific way to introduce girls and women to snow sports. For dads, taking your daughter to the snow could become one of her most precious lifetime memories. I wish the program was around when my daughters were young," said Bill Clapper, of SnowSports Industries of America.

Sunday River will take part by offering half-price lift tickets all week to daughters when accompanied by a full-price parent. Sunday River Cross-Country Center will have 2-for-1 skiing for daughters ages 12 and under, with a paying adult. Daughters 13 and older can cross country ski for $4 with a paying parent. On Feb. 4, bring your daughter to Lost Valley and buy one ticket, lesson or rental, and get one free. Black Mountain in Rumford will offer a half-price daughter lift ticket for Alpine or cross county on Feb. 6, including a free introductory lesson if needed.

New Hampshire's Loon, Cranmore and Waterville Valley all will participate with free skiing and riding tips by women instructors, and a free lift ticket when you sign up a daughter, mother, granddaughter or grandmother for a learn-to-ski or ride package.

If Picabo says it's OK to ski like a girl, and who are we to argue with the Olympic gold medalist? Ski areas are encouraging female bonding on snow by offering clinics taught exclusively by women, for women. Sunday River hosts a myriad of women's clinics, including a season-long program, a two-day clinic March 2-3, and weekly "drop-in" clinics at 1:30 p.m. every Wednesday, for $30.

"The women that have participated in this program love it. Our all-women certified coaches give very personalized attention and the group dynamics have been great," says Sunday River Women's Turn Pro Jill Kenney.

Sugarloaf will offer similar Women's Turn Clinics, with a five-day program Feb. 7-11, a one-day clinic Feb. 26, and a three-day clinic March 10-12. Each session includes on-snow coaching, demonstrations, video analysis, and social events dedicated to improving women's skiing and riding confidence and technique.

Great Glen Trails in Gorham, N.H., offers a women's-only Nordic ski experience Feb. 12 and March 11. For $65, participants receive instruction in yoga, Nordic technique using the latest equipment, lunch and aprs ski with the gals. Call 1-603-466-2333.

Remember those commercials, "Strong enough for a man, but made for a woman?" Turns out women want anatomically correct skis of their own. Any fitted ski outfit will indicate that women are shaped differently, and therefore their skis, boots and bindings should be too.

John Rock of Arlberg Ski Shop said, "Women are accounting for at least 40 percent of the market and their equipment needs are finally being addressed by manufacturers. A 210-pound guy and a 110-pound woman, even if they are the same ability, need a different flexing ski, and the same applies to boot design. "In the past they would offer ladies' equipment simply by changing the colors. Now, skis, snowboards, and especially boots are designed specifically for women, and the response has been huge."

Statistically about 60 percent of skiers and riders coming out for learning programs are women.

However, women drop out of the sport at a higher rate than men. These industry campaigns are catering to the feminine sector, hoping to retain women in snow sports.

EVENTS THIS WEEK: The fourth annual ESPN Winter X Games will be held in the East for the first time. Mount Snow, Vt., will host competitors from around the globe on Feb. 3-6.Ê.Ê.Ê. Ski with the stars at Shawnee Peak on Feb. 4 during the Moonlight Charity Challenge Fund-raiser, to benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Portland and Shawnee's adaptive ski program. Ski legend Wayne Wong, Red Sox Cy Young award winner Jim Lonborg, TV stars Dennis Haskins of "Saved By the Bell," and "Hard Copy's" Barry Nolan, along with local Channel 8 personality Steve Minich, will be on hand with a goal of generating $50,000. Also, on Feb. 5 at the Peak, free Rossignol demos are available with a lift-ticket purchase.

CONDITIONS: The long-awaited Nor'easter finally came Tuesday, leaving in its wake fabulous conditions at all areas across Maine. Skiers and riders can now enjoy carving on all their favorite slopes, trails and glades.

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Looking for a challenge? Check out these ski trails

January 23, 2000

The expression goes that if you can ski in the East, you can ski anywhere. These select trails will make an Eastern skier out of you. They are some of the most challenging, and, on certain days, humbling ski trails in Maine.

Bubblecuffer at Sugarloaf can have bumps the size of Volkswagens. This trail starts at the very top, in the snowfields, and continues on for what seems like forever if you don't have rubber knees.

Serious pitch, constantly changing fall line, twists and big moguls make this double black diamond a trail worthy of bragging rights.

Shockwave at Sunday River gets my vote. White Heat receives all the accolades (longest, steepest, widest) and plays host to all the events, but Shockwave is even steeper in sections, with a few twists.

In addition, Shockwave is not an exhibitionist trail to those riding the quad, so you ski it purely for your own exhilaration, without the cheers and jeers from the audience overhead. Shockwave is off the beaten path, but also posted as NFT (No Fall Terrain).

Muleskinner at Saddleback presents more of an adventure than most on this list. The traverse/hike out to this narrow trail after a 1,000 thousand vertical feet riding an antiquated T-bar will give you stories to tell.

You'll feel like you are "out of bounds," but it is on the trail map. You just have to ski it to believe it. Snowboarders be forewarned: It is a schlep out to the trail head.

You may want to unbuckle and pack a PowerBar.

Liftline at Squaw has some of the wildest drop-offs and steeps I have skied in Maine. There are several places where you can really "take some air" simply by pushing off an outcropping or ledge. What I like most is the real natural feel to this trail. Be ready for knoll after knoll of tight turns dodging lift towers.

To add to the excitement, the folks on the chairlift are watching you when they are not admiring the awesome view of Moosehead Lake below.

White Nitro in the snowfields at Sugarloaf is plenty steep. Sugarloaf earns its reputation as one big mountain, and when you take White Nitro from the summit, you get the feeling of just how big. Your turns should be well planned as you descend this hard-core trail.

White Nitro is steep, very steep, and worthy of the double black diamond rating. Snowmaking on this trail allows it to be open often, as well.

Bronco Buster at Saddleback is gnarly enough to host an annual downhill. Nearly 1,000 feet of vertical, consistent fall line and heavy moguls in the spring make for a yearly "survival of the fittest" on March 25. Ski it top to bottom without stopping or falling and win a three-day ski ticket.

Ho Chi Minh Trail at Bigrock is narrow, twisty and a whole lot of fun. The easternmost trail of this marvelous "little" ski hill relies on natural snow, presenting additional unpredictability. Take a right off the summit of this 980-foot vertical, located "way up there" in Mars Hill.

Flying Monkey and Celestial at Sunday River qualify due to tight glades and a formidable fall line. If you like trees, you will like these double black glades.

To add to the excitement, I visualize myself in Dorothy's ruby slippers with those nasty monkeys chasing me through the dense forest.

Dungeons at Shawnee Peak is steep and gladed. Threading through the trees on this natural snow trail with serious pitch warrants a double black diamond above Shawnee's more tame trails. Remember, it's not always wise to be a "tree hugger."

Lower Rocky's Run at Mount Abram also makes the ranks of double black diamond. For a small area, Abram offers big-mountain skiing with more than 1,000 feet of vertical and trails over a mile long.

Lower Rocky's is the wildest of the bunch, as opposed to Abram's ever-mellow, ever-green Captain Peachfuzz.

EVENTS: Sugarloaf plays host to White World this week, which means $29 lift tickets Jan. 24-28 and winter carnival activities, including a toga party and a "Locals Downhill."

Lost Valley now has 14 of its 15 trails open, and you can "Turn Til Twelve" during the Handicap Ski A Thon fund-raiser on Jan. 28.

If you are up for a drive and a retro experience, Mad River Glen in Vermont will celebrate 51 years in operation with "roll back the clock" day on Jan. 25, honoring lift-ticket prices from 1949 of $3.50.

At Cannon Mountain in New Hampshire, two people can ski or ride for $42 next Sunday.

CONDITIONS: Thank you Mother Nature. After a record 305 days with no significant snowfall in Portland, we were long overdue; ski areas received over 10 inches in the past week. Ski areas are at last nearly 100 percent open.

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The best part of skiing is that it brings you to new heights — literally.

January 16, 2000

The vast state of Maine offers incredible scenery in winter. What better place to view our lakes, forests, and mountains than from atop our ski areas' summits. Here are a few trails that lend a unique perspective to our beautiful state. Whether it is a view of Moosehead Lake, the vast Maine forests or the mighty Mount Washington in the distance — the pinnacle to all other New England summits — each of these trails offers outstanding vistas.

Penobscot at Big Squaw earns my top honor. It is like being on the top of Maine itself. So far north and high above massive Moosehead Lake, the view of Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine, is awesome. The view from the chairlift is also incredible, but a firm grip on this quirky double chair is advised at all times while enjoying this truly magnificent vista. By the way, the skiing is excellent on this long intermediate trail.

Lookout at Camden Snow Bowl is "where the mountains meet the sea." Where else in the world can you view the Atlantic Ocean from a ski trail? This friendly ski hill in Camden offers the opportunity for a glimpse of the sea, so it makes the scenic list for that unique spectacle alone.

White Nitro at Sugarloaf gets you up so high you can almost reach the heavens. And the panorama from Maine's second highest peak is heavenly too. From this northern vantage point you can see forever. Particularly outstanding are the views of the Bigelow Range. I should also mention that this trail is so darned steep it will take your breath away. Tell your fellow skiers you are admiring the view when they ask why you have stopped.

The Jack Spratt trail at Shawnee Peak, accessed from the summit triple, opens up in the mid-section to afford a view of Maine's Mahoosuc Range and New Hampshire's majestic White Mountains to the East. Moose Pond below serves as a frozen reflective pool to the ski area, similar to Lake Tahoe — sort of.

Desperado and Wildfire are sister trails at Saddleback. Each has a view of Rangeley Lake and the northwestern mountains from these two fall line cruisers. Put an Eagles tune in your head and enjoy the ride.

Lollapalooza at Sunday River is simply a "pretty" trail. Everything about it is pleasant, from the vistas to the meander down Jordan Bowl. Making the trek to this eastern most trail at Sunday River is well worth it. The best views are actually as the high-speed quad crests the summit on your ascent, a breathtaking span of Mount Washington and the always white-capped Presidential in the distance.

Timberline at Sugarloaf, accessed from the Timberline summit quad, has a distant sight of Sunday River to the south and sweeping vistas in all directions. Sugarloaf management has also recognized this location with a "Kodak photo spot" icon on the trail map.

Upper Sunday Punch at Sunday River is a classic. After disembarking from the Locke Mountain triple chair ski straight and to your right. From the summit of Sunday Punch you will be rewarded with remarkable views of the Presidential Range to the south and across the "Otten empire" to the Jordan Bowl summit several miles to the west.

Upper Easy Rider at Mount Abram has western views of the Presidential Range and a glimpse of neighboring Sunday River as you work your way off the summit of this 1,000-foot vertical ski area.

Mount Agamenticus in York is no longer a ski area but will always be a ski hill and a nature lover's dream, worth a winter visit. You have to earn your turns, no high-speed quad here, and Mother Nature must cooperate with natural snow. A clear day on "Big A's" 692-foot summit provides views of Boston's skyscrapers to the south, Boone Island and the Isles of Shoals to the east, Casco Bay to the north and good ole Mount Washington to the west. Then descend through the old growth forest. Telemark skis are the preferred equipment.

That is my opinion. Being in the mountains is always beautiful. I hope you have your own "Top 10" favorite trails. This is one debate everyone can win.

EVENTS: For boarders, Sugarloaf will host the Ben Weisbein Snowboard series with a giant slalom race on Jan.22, and a half-pipe competition on Jan.23. For tele-skiers, Mount Abram is having its annual Telemark Festival event on Jan.22.

Looking ahead, Sugarloaf will host the first Vertical Challenge event to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities on Jan. 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., followed by a silent auction and party. Your vertical feet translate into funds raised for this non-profit children's organization that "lifts children to a better tomorrow." For information, call 797-7130 or visit www.sugarloaf.com

CONDITIONS: Sunday River and Sugarloaf have been open for over two months now and the coverage on the snowmaking trails is excellent. The northern slopes in Maine finally received some natural snow last week! Shawnee has most of its two-sided mountain open. Saddleback, Lost Valley, Mount Abram, Eaton and others now have some strong base depths on a dozen or so trails.

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Just how safe is skiing? Safety Awareness Week takes a look.

January 9, 2000

The thrill of gliding down a snow-covered mountain offers an invigorating rush and a feeling of accomplishment unlike any other sport. But is skiing safe?

"The sport has some inherent risks, but enjoys an excellent safety record," says Michael Berry, president of the National Ski Area Association. According to a report produced by the NSAA, during the past 13 years about 32 people a year, on average, have have died while skiing or snowboarding, a fatality rate of 0.69 per million skier/snowboarder visits. Skiing men, between the ages of 18 and 24, account for 85 percent of those deaths.

Compare the skiing fatality rate to other sports and you will start to feel a lot safer. Statistically, your risk of fatality from bicycling is 7.1 deaths per million participants. Before heading to the pool after skiing, you should know swimming is considerably more risky, claiming 17 deaths per million.

Skiing has actually become safer, says Dr. Jasper Shealy. Shealy has conducted a 26-year study of skiing and related injuries at Sugarbush Ski Resort in Vermont. He reports a 50 percent decline in ski injuries. If these statistics are not comforting enough, there are things you can do to reduce your risk on the slopes.

Everyone should know and practice "The Code." This year, "National Safety Awareness Week" (Jan. 15 to Jan. 21) will take place at ski areas nationwide. The National Ski Area Association, including ski areas here in Maine, will showcase safety education and host special activities during the week to heighten awareness of slope safety and remind skiers and riders of the seven-point responsibility code.

A.A.A. (awareness, accountability and attitude) is just one of the new ski industry acronyms being used to promote respect and etiquette on the slopes. The Professional Ski Instructors Association has chosen the theme of "Heads Up." People generally identify "Heads Up" as a friendly safety-related reminder. Also, it is an easy concept for ski areas to incorporate into their ongoing educational programs and signage.

One of the hottest debates in the industry continues to be whether or not skiers should wear helmets. There are volumes of statistics showing that helmets do not make skiing safer, including the Shealy Study, which says that only 2.5 percent of all skiing injuries are head related, and 80 percent of those are mild concussions. In bicycling, 32 percent of injuries are to the head. However, none of the research can measure those skiers who never visit a first aid station, perhaps because the skier was wearing a helmet and was not injured.

Recreational helmets are designed to protect against glancing blows but not for impact with fixed objects at speeds greater than 12 miles per hour. Ski racing helmets are actually designed not as impact resistant but to protect the racer from the more common abrasions due to falls, which often occur at speeds of 50-70 m.p.h. Essentially, a helmet is not going to save you in a high-speed crash with a tree or lift tower. Helmet or headband, it's best to avoid skiing into stationary objects.

Children fall more often as part of their learning curve, making their heads more susceptible to bumps and bruises. "It is a great way to keep kids' heads more protected and warm from the winter elements," Marc Hauser of Boeri Helmets, says of wearing protective headgear. Industry representatives agree that, while it is not a protection to all accidents, children under age 14 should wear helmets. Similarly, most learning programs recommend, but do not require, children to wear helmets.

A ski-area helmet mandate was proposed as legislation in the New Jersey Senate last spring. For now, we are free to choose what goes on our head, and into our head, and whether or not we wish to ski in Jersey for that reason.

To help educate young skiers and riders, Snowsports Industries of America sponsors "Snow Monsters" as skiing safety mascots. "Snowball" the snow tiger and his cast of forest friends spread the word that "safety is no accident" in a clever video that's accompanied by coloring books and posters. Olympic champion Picabo Street will be featured in a sequel Snow Monster video being filmed this season, accompanied by Aretha Franklin in the role of Mother Nature. Go on-line with your kids to www.snowmonsters.com and learn more about this safety initiative.

As with any sport, skilled instruction, the proper gear and a respectful attitude make for the best possible experience. "Heads up," know the code, and have a nice run.

Skier and Rider Responsibility Code
1. Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
2. People ahead of you have the right if way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
3. You must not stop where you can obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.
4. Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
5. Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
6. Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
7. Prior to using any lift you must have the knowledge to load, ride and unload safely.

EVENTS: Mount Abram will host a demo day along with a safety awareness booth on Jan. 15. Lost Valley is the site of the J.P. Parisien Memorial Race on Jan. 16 at 9 a.m.

The spectacular Budweiser Aerial Assault Team will perform at Sunday River on Jan. 15-16, including a Saturday night show with fireworks. This amazing team wows audiences with unbelievable aerial stunts as part of a nationwide tour. The event flies in the face of a "ski safety" story, so please take part as a spectator only. Another spectator event, Sugarloaf will host the FIS Super G men's and women's race series on Jan. 13-14.

CONDITIONS: Hopefully, we got our January thaw out of the way last week. (Question: Does it count as a "thaw" if there was no significant snow on the ground?) Actually, there is snow in ski country.

The good news is that some of these coastal rains that Maine has been experiencing are snow in the hills and mountains. The bad news is that most ski areas did not gain any additional terrain this past week. The smaller hills can offer a pleasant day with several trails to choose from. Lost Valley has a dozen trails open now. Areas with real snow-making power, Sunday River, Sugarloaf and Shawnee Peak continue to offer some excellent skiing and riding.

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Early training can provide kids the thrill of a lifetime January 2, 2000

For those who don't have a favorite winter sport, Maine's frosty months must seem long. For skiers the season is never long enough. Families who ski together not only adore the snowy season, but also have a deeper bond.

Growing up in my family, winter weekends and holidays were spent together on the slopes. Skiing with my parents, brothers and grandfather are some of my most precious memories. Now I cherish days on the hill with my own children, their grandparents, aunts and uncles.

Teaching your kids to ski at an early age gives them a skill that lasts a lifetime and a sport they can share with generations. Getting my kids on skis has been both challenging and rewarding. The back pain from lugging my tearful 3-year-old up the hill still makes me twinge.

Advice from someone who has been there as a ski instructor and parent of two: Take advantage of the professional instructors. Trust them to introduce your child to skiing and riding properly, and your child will learn the basics so you can enjoy ski time together for years to come.

Ski school programs are designed to start children ages 4 to 6. If you start your children at 2 or 3, it should be for a photo opportunity, and actual time skiing should be short.

For those too young for ski camp, day care is available at most areas. Sunday River and a few other resorts offer one hour of snow lessons as an add-on.

Ski camp is an ideal opportunity for your little skier to be with peers and cool instructors, playing games that disguise the learning process. Your child will receive training for safe technique, have an activity-filled day and make friends.

Mountain Magic at Sugarloaf combines on-slopes games with indoor arts and crafts, lunch, and visits from mascots Amos the Moose and Blueberry Bear during their all-day ski camp for $59.

Sunday River charges $65 for a full-day children's program including rental equipment. Mount Abram hosts an eight-week program of two-hour instruction sessions called Bullwinkle's Buddies for $125. Lost Valley has a similar six-week program for $95.

If you feel guilty about placing your child in an all-day program, half-day ski camp is a less expensive alternative, allowing you to practice with your newly schooled child after the morning lesson.

To make your child's adventure of learning to ski fun and smooth for everyone, here are a few tips. Call the ski area in advance to reserve ski camp, confirm the hours, the cost and exactly what is included, such as lunch and equipment.

Prepare your child for the day. Explain they will be with other children and a teacher until pick-up time. Be enthusiastic; positive energy is contagious. If you are anxious, your child also may become nervous.

Deliver your child to camp in recently checked equipment or reserve the resort's rentals. Bring a change of clothes and an extra pair of socks and mittens, all of which should be labeled.

At the ski school desk, be prepared to fill out lengthy registration forms with emergency contacts and any medical concerns or allergies. At Sugarloaf, they keep your registration card from one year to the next.

Do everyone a favor by accurately and honestly describing your child's ability level to the instructor. Do not push the child into a class he or she is not ready for. At the end of the session, ask the instructor for your child's ski report card and find out what level they recommend next.

If you want to teach your child on your own, pick up some gadgets at the ski shop to aid your efforts, and relieve your back. Edgie wedgies, also known as the ski bra, attach to the child's ski tips, keeping them in a controlled wedge formation.

Ski harnesses can also be effective, allowing you to follow your child and control their speed.

As with any learning process, pressuring your child only leads to tension. Let your child set the pace. Skiing is not about the number of runs, or the perfect turn. Skiing is about fun and plenty of stops for hot cocoa.

Some youngsters prefer playing in the snow to carving. Our daughter thought it was a hoot to wipe out and eat snow at age 4. Now 6, she has discovered the joys of a no-fall run. With time and a stress-free learning environment, your child will grow to love the sport.

To inspire your young skier, the Eastern championship freestyle series will convene at Sunday River on Jan. 8-9. Top-seeded freestylers will compete in aerials, moguls and dual moguls. Mount Abram is hosting snowboarder events open to all Jan. 8-9 including a snowboard clinic on Saturday and a giant slalom for riders on Sunday.

On the race circuit, Sugarloaf will host the MARA Cup giant slalom for Class III, IV, and V racers Jan. 9.

CONDITIONS: We are still awaiting the season's first major snow storm but northern areas have received several "mountain flurries," improving the ambiance with white ground cover. After three weeks of first-rate snowmaking temperatures, there is some quality skiing and riding across the state. All areas in Maine are now open, most with a handful of trails. The three major exceptions to this are Sunday River, Sugarloaf and Shawnee. Sunday River's awesome snowmaking power leads the way with all eight of its interconnected mountains now open, and over 70 trails. The Timberline summit quad opened at Sugarloaf this past week. Shawnee Peak has all five lifts open with more than 60 percent of its trails.

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Ski resorts all set for 2000 action

December 26, 1999

Will Maine ski-lift systems survive the Jan. 1 date change? Will the ticket windows be able to accept your credit card for a New Year's Day ski ticket?

Ski resorts around New England have been addressing the millennium matter for months now, and reports indicate they are prepared for Y2K.

Ski area operators' greater concerns this month have been the warm temperatures and lack of snow. This is one pattern everyone in the ski industry hopes to see change in 2000.

Ed Rocks, general manager at Shawnee Peak, said, "We, like everyone, have been working in concert with our lift manufacturers and respective companies concerning our ticketing software on all Y2K issues. We will be open for skiing until 10 p.m. on Dec. 31, with special New Year's activities planned. And we will be opening at 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 1, so it's business as usual."

The American Skiing Co. developed a year 2000 task force to evaluate and update all resort technologies and has spent about $275,000 in Y2K preparation.

The initiative included planned updates of both Sugarloaf and Sugarbush's lodging systems, which had been found to be noncompliant.

When asked about the 2000 issue, Ryan Triffitt, Sunday River communications manager, said, "All our snow is Y2K compliant. Every bit of snow here on Dec. 31 will still be here on Jan. 1."

Brian Maloney, chief financial officer at Mount Abram, said, "We are as prepared as our suppliers and we have their assurances. We rely on others for services like power and credit-card processing."

"Although we have made extensive plans and are confident we are all ready for Y2K, we have rented a big, very big generator just in case," said Pam Cruickshank, spokeswoman at Okemo Mountain Resort in Vermont.

In order to operate, all ski lifts must have secondary power sources as standard equipment, just in case the primary power source fails. That backup enables lifts to off-load skiers on the line if the primary power fails.

A lift cannot continue to load people without at least two power sources operational, however.

Tom Caughey, Wildcat's general manager, said, "We are ready. We have very little in microprocessor-operated systems. Our office software is all set and we actually have three power options to operate lifts, including full diesel power backup."

One thing is certain, no one will be stranded on a lift as the clock strikes midnight: Lifts will be closed before the critical 01-01-2000 date change. Even those areas open for night skiing will close by 10 p.m. on Dec. 31.

This week ski areas continue to be focused on snowmaking efforts and the numerous on- and off-slope activities planned for the traditionally busy holiday week, including fireworks and parties.

For kids on school vacation, Mount Abram has activities starting with a giant slalom race for kids on Monday, followed by a carnival Wednesday and a scavenger hunt on the first day of the New Year. For the adults, Mount Abram will hold its Maine Citizen giant slalom race on Jan. 2.

Shawnee Peak will welcome winter at its annual Ullr Festival on Tuesday with night skiing, fireworks and a torchlight parade.

New Hampshire's Wildcat is greeting the 2000 issue with discounted prices of $20 for lift tickets, lessons or rentals for skiers and riders from Jan.uary 1-14.

To welcome Mainers in the New Year, Jan. 6 is "Maine state day" at Vermont's Okemo Mountain. Show your Maine photo ID and lift tickets can be purchased for $25.

The ski town of Bethel is in the 2000 spirit as itthey plans to build 2,000 snowmen along Route 26. Last season Bethel was home to "Angus," the world's largest snowman.

ON THE NORDIC SCENE last weekend, Sugarloaf hosted the Volvo Eastern Cup Opener with more than 500 of the best junior, senior and master Nordic skiers in New England. Racers competed for points, places on the Junior Olympic team and invitations to this season's Nationals in Park City, Utah, the site of the 2002 Winter Olympics.

Sugarloaf's 1.5-K man-made snow course stood up to Saturday's 5-kilometer classic race and Sunday's 5-K skating (freestyle) race. Carrabassett Valley Academy's Anna Sprague won by a 3-second margin, with a time of 26 minutes.

Kris Freeman of the U.S. Elite team won among men in with a time of 20:35.4. Other Maine scores include Seth Beal, also of CVA, who finished 15th overall and 10th in the senior division. Maranacook skier Andy Hunter placed fifth for JI skiers, and Sam Trafton of Auburn was 15th as an older junior.

Farmington's Dorcas Wonsavage won the women's Masters 1-2 age group, and Bangor's Chris Dorion won the men's Master 1-2 age group. Raul Siren won the Masters 5-6 age group.

Sugarloaf will be hosting several Alpine races this week. Monday is the giant slalom series opener for Class III, IV and V racers from all over the Northeast.

Competition Hill, at Sugarloaf, will be the site of the Dax Brown slalom race series on Wednesday. The giant slalom series continues for Class III, IV, and V at Shawnee Peak on Jan. 2.

Are you prepared for Y2K? Here is a contingency ski plan for Jan. 1: Fill your car with gas, and have cash in your pocket and a flashlight next to your boot bag. Get out on the slopes early, while the "amateurs" are sleeping, for first tracks of the millennium.

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Something for the skier on your list?

December 19, 1999

'All I want for Christmas is snow," said my 7-year-old.

Ever since he conquered White Heat last season, he has become fanatical about the sport. At least cold temperatures have returned to the mountains, hopefully to stay, and ski areas are scrambling to blow snow in preparation for the upcoming holidays.

But not everyone on your list will be content simply receiving snow for Christmas. Last-minute holiday shopping, therefore, presents a bit of a dilemma. To ski, or to shop?

This year, consider gift certificates that can be purchased by phone or online for the skiers and riders on your list. The benefits are many, starting with less time shopping and more time on the slopes. Avoiding returns or exchanges on "Boxing Day" means another prime ski day. I would rather wait in a lift line for a nonstop run than wait in the customer service line at any store.

"Our gift certificates are available in any amount and can be used at any of our stores, for catalog merchandise and on our Web site," said David Teufel, public relations spokesman for L.L. Bean in Freeport. "Ski and snowboard helmets are very popular this year for both kids and adults."

The Arlberg, Rodgers and Joe Jones ski shops all sell gift certificates in any dollar amount for merchandise or ski-tuning services. Dale Rodgers of Rodgers Ski and Sport said: "This year, shaped skis are the big item. Everyone wants the skis Hermann Maier skis on."

Membership to a local health and fitness club is a terrific incentive for any winter sports enthusiast, particularly those who have procrastinated in their preseason conditioning. The gift of fitness reduces the risk of injury and can vastly improve the skiing and riding experience.

Two-way radios were everywhere on the slopes last year. Get a pair at your local retailer and stay in touch with your friends on the hill.

As for the nonskiers and riders on your list, why not give the gift of skiing for $39? "GET skiing" is the name of a campaign available at Shawnee Peak and 17 other resorts in the Northeast. GET is an acronym for "Guaranteed Easy Turns."

This initiative puts first-time skiers on the latest technology of shorter, lightweight shaped skis specially designed for easier maneuverability and turning, and ultimately a quicker learning curve.

The campaign also rewards you for sharing your love of skiing with a new recruit. If you bring a new skier on any midweek nonholiday to a learn-to-ski clinic at Shawnee Peak, you will receive a free lift ticket for that day. For $39, your friend will receive 90 minutes of professional instruction, use of the latest easy-turning-shaped ski rentals and beginner-lift access.

"GET back into skiing" is an extension of this campaign to reintroduce former skiers to the latest technology of shaped skis. For $25, former skiers receive a 90-minute mountain tour with a teaching pro, use of the easy-turning skis and access to the lifts during the tour. The ski industry hopes to recapture skiers who have left the sport in the past decade with the introduction of the new, easier-to-use technology.

For the Nordic enthusiast on your list, consider the purchase of a Koch Privilege Card. Named in honor of the 1976 Olympic silver medalist, Bill Koch, this card entitles cross country skiers to half-price trail passes for two adults and an unlimited number of children 18 and younger.

The card cost $60 and is available from the Maine Nordic Ski Council at 1-800-754-9263. Pass usage is unlimited and valid at 14 Nordic centers in Maine. The Koch pass benefits the Youth Ski League.

"Maine has a tradition of sending over a dozen Nordic skiers to the U.S. Olympic cross country team. Helping the kids in the Bill Koch League will ensure we carry on this tradition," said Wendy Gray, executive director of Maine Nordic Ski Council.

If, like my son, you simply long for that white Christmas, Sugarloaf and Sunday River, in conjunction with all American Skiing Company resorts, are actually guaranteeing it. Reserve a Ski & Stay package by Dec. 24 for the millennium week of Dec. 25- Jan. 2, and 70 percent of the terrain is guaranteed to be open.

"We'll have the snow," said Leslie B. Otten, American Skiing Company chief executive officer. "Our resorts have the most advanced snow-making systems in the nation and we expect to be wide open. But if we can't give our guests at least 70 percent of their mountain, we'll activate the guarantee."

In that case, guests will receive a 25 percent price reduction on their next vacation and a voucher of up to $500 toward a trip to the Canyons or Steamboat. Guests also may cancel reservations at no cost on the day of arrival if the promise has not been met.

This offer appears to be a reaction to yet another millennium package, which did not receive the sell-out status previously anticipated, combined with a lack of snow so far this winter.

Areas are now aggressively making snow whenever possible, trying to open terrain for the holiday week. Crowds are out shopping and preparing for their holiday gatherings, making this week a good time to ski.

Areas in central and northern Vermont were fortunate to receive as much as a foot of snow this past week. Be sure to call areas in advance or go online to ski reporting sites, including snocountry.com or rsn.com, for the latest details and daily photos.

My event pick for next week is Shawnee Peak's ULLR Festival to Welcome Winter (perhaps we should have done this a few weeks ago). You can watch the fireworks while night skiing on Dec. 28.

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Getting to the ski slopes is getting more affordable all the time

December 12, 1999

Even before the Christmas decorations deck the malls, my thoughts turn to skiing.

I have just one complaint with Maine's seasons: There is there is far too big a gap between the magnificent fall colors and the beautiful white of winter — simply too much brown.

I know many people share my enthusiasm for a white Thanksgiving, never mind waiting until Christmas.

Ski areas have not been giving thanks for the balmy weather since Thanksgiving week. Sunday River and Sugarloaf have struggled to remain open during the past month on several trails, while the smaller areas have postponed openings.

With the return of chilly temperatures, Maine's snow guns are once again blowing in full force.

If you grew up skiing, you know what I mean when I say skiing is a life experience. No other sport provides so much fun, so many thrills and so many experiences that can be shared by the entire family.

That said, skiing is not inexpensive. A day on the slopes can run $30-$65 a day per person, and that's just for a lift ticket.

But there are some deals available, some valuable promotions and ticket options that will get you out on the slopes a little more affordably.

Everyone needs gas to get to the slopes, and participating Mobil stations are offering $10 coupons good for lift tickets or a free Learn to Ski or Snowboard clinic with the purchase of three fill-ups.

Discounts are valid at Sugarloaf, Sunday River, Attitash and five other American Skiing Company resorts in New England. The certificates are not good on certain holidays or Saturdays, but here's a tip: Ski resorts historically experience one-third smaller crowds on Sundays than on Saturdays, so save a buck ($10, actually) and enjoy the less crowded slopes.

Shawnee Peak will again offer the Sunday Family four-pack ticket for $99 for two adults and two children ages 6-12.

In recent years Shawnee has dramatically improved lifts and snowmaking, giving it a big-mountain feel just an hour from downtown Portland. For more frequent skiers, Shawnee's Super Saver 8 pack for $255 gives you eight tickets valid any time all season.

For those who can "sneak to the Peak" midweek, Shawnee has a Monday through Friday nonholiday eight-pack for only $189.

Want to ski for $10 a day? Bring a friend to Mount Abram this winter on any nonholiday Tuesday or Thursday and two can ski or ride for $20. Otherwise, Abram midweek tickets are $17 and weekends are $32.

Lost Valley will debut "flex ticketing," allowing you to purchase as few as two hours of slope time for $12 midweek or $14 on weekends and holidays.

Billing itself as "Maine's Family Ski Area," Lost Valley offers a Family Weekend Value pack for $89 for two adults and two children 12 and under, available Saturday or Sunday.

Camden Snow Bowl offers the option of a two-hour, $10 ticket on midweek days. The toboggan ride will be open as soon as the pond freezes, at a cost of $1 per run.

Skiing and riding at Black Mountain in Rumford is $17 per day, and snow-tubing is $1 a ride.

Big Squaw offers a big mountain for a small price of $24 Fridays, weekends and holidays, and just $15 Monday-Thursday.

Saddleback ticket prices are $29 midweek, $45 weekends and holidays, and if you purchase Saturday and Sunday, you can ski or ride Friday or Monday free.

Seacoast Snow Park in Windham offers sliding, riding, tubing and blading for the whole family, with Snow Park season passes for just $79 if you purchase by the end of December.

The American Skiing Company ski areas have extended sales of the all-new mETICKET through Dec. 19. The mETICKET allows you to ski or ride for as little as $38 per day; the more days you purchase, the more you save.

You must buy a minimum of three days and can purchase up to 14 days of skiing. Tickets are nonrefundable and expire at the end of the season, but after March 21, you can share with friends and redeem as many remaining days on your mETICKET as you wish per day.

Purchase the mETICKET via the special Web site (www.meticket.com) or by calling 1-877-METICKET (1-877-638-4253) and you will be paying considerably less than the $49 per day at Sunday River and Sugarloaf this winter.

For more frequent skiers and riders or for businesses looking for a reward program, the Ski Maine Passbook provides an opportunity to see and ski all of Maine's Alpine slopes.

The passbook contains 46 lift-ticket coupons for $525. Unlike most passes, the books are transferrable and valid every day of the season, including four tickets each to Sunday River, Sugarloaf/USA, Big Squaw, Lost Valley, Mt. Abram, Shawnee Peak, Saddleback and two tickets each to Bigrock, Black Mountain, Camden Snow Bowl, Eaton Mountain, Lonesome Pine Trails, Mt. Jefferson, New Hermon Mountain, Seacoast Snow Park, and Titcomb Mountain. You can order a passbook online at www.skimaine.com, or call the Ski Maine Passport hotline at 771-7975.

The best ski deal in Maine continues to be the Ski Maine Fifth-Grade Passport, which provides three days of free skiing at each of the 15 participating Ski Maine resorts.

Paying adults must accompany their fifth-grader to the ticket window, making this an opportunity to spend quality time with your kid on the slopes. Applications were distributed statewide in schools, and are also are available at People's Heritage banks.

Knowing where and when to go is the next step. Surfing the Web, you can find information such as current number of trails open, surface conditions, trails expected for the weekend, where snowmaking is occurring, hours of operation, kids programs, upcoming events and deals.

Bookmark the Ski Maine Association Web site, www.skimaine.com. It is updated daily with a listing of current conditions at all Maine ski areas, and you can link to all Maine member areas with Web sites for further information.

For frequently updated snow reporting, including satellite imagery, www.snocountry.com is another helpful site.

Cross country skiers can visit www.mnsc.com for conditions. A detailed report listing new snowfall, surface conditions, kilometers open and special events is also available by calling the Maine Nordic Ski Council at 1-800-SKI-XCME.

CONDITIONS: This week, Sunday River and Sugarloaf continue to offer skiing and riding and you can expect new trails and terrain daily. Nordic skiers will find two kilometers of cross-country at Sugarloaf. Big Squaw has re-opened with skiing and riding from the mid-station.

MY PICK for the events of the week are both at Sugarloaf. The first Bud Light Boarderfest and Big Air competition will be held Dec. 18-20. Riders can win cash and even a vintage Pontiac. For Nordic fans, 200 of the best junior, senior and masters cross-country skiers in New England will be at the 'Loaf for the first NENSA/ Volvo Eastern Cup races on Dec. 18th weekend. If there is natural snow, Sunday's races will be at Black Mountain.

 

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