“Ski Areas Place Welcome Mat out for Glades”

Feb 24, 2002

by Heather Burke

 

Ski areas have been doing some “summer grooming” in recent years to openo up new gladed terrain. Sunday River, Sugarloaf, Squaw and Shawnee Peak have all added glade trails to their respective maps.

 

This progressive shift over the past decade is good news for skiers and riders wanting to ski the wooded terrain between the carved trails at ski areas. The orange ropes that once closed off these passages are being replaced with trail signs and a welcome mat.

 

Smugglers’ Notch led the way in New England in the late 80’s, and immediately saw the positive results. “Glades keep the upper-end skiers happy. It also spreads skiers and riders out over the whole mountain, reducing concentration on the trails,” said Bob Mulcahy, President of Smugglers' Notch, Vermont. Smugglers’ now has nine designated gladed trails, and skiers and riders have access to all the resort’s woods from “boundary to boundary.”

 

Gladed trails are peppered with trees, rocks, and stumps to negotiate. Skiers and riders like the variation and excitement that glades add to their usual trip down a predictable mountain trail. The woodsy terrain is popular because it offers an in-boundary adventure, without the out of bounds risks.

 

“Glades provide people with an opportunity to have a ‘quasi’ back-country skiing experience, under the umbrella of monitoring by ski patrol. People don’t have to worry about getting lost or dealing with avalanches, yet they get a feeling of being in the wilderness,” said Cheryl Fullerton of Sugarloaf communications.

 

Glades are less expensive and more environmentally friendly. It’s easier for a ski area to prune a pre-existing locals path or an opening through the snowy woods than to clear-cut and remove all the stumps on a boulevard size trail.

 

“Overall maintenance is less, because the glades are left in their natural state, without snowmaking or grooming,” said Fullerton.

 

“Glades do need to be trimmed back in the summer,” said Big Squaw patrol director Sandy McFarland.

 

“We weed-wack glades in the summer, as we do all other trails. Maintenance is about the same overall,” said Susan Duplessis of Sunday River communications. “Getting glades open is easier, obviously, because there are less trees to cut.”

 

Ski areas are developing glades for a range of abilities, not just experts. Sugarloaf debuted a green circle glade, Blueberry’s Grove, this year. Of course, they also opened up the gnarly double black diamond glade, Cant Dog, for expert tree lovers.

 

Sunday River offers a progression of glades. Blind Ambition off of Lollapalooza and Last Tango are well spaced and moderate, with accessible bailouts. Wizard’s Gulch, Celestial and Chutzpah are steeper and require tighter turns. Spruce Cliffs is wild and downright precipitous.

 

“People like glades because the trail dictates the way you’re going to ski it more so than an open trail. You’re really working with the natural topography and the surface is constantly changing depending on snowfall, unlike with a maintained surface,” said Tim Bruce, director of Sunday River Ski Patrol.

 

The beauty of a glade trail is in its inherent natural state. The terrain is not groomed and the trees filter out the direct sun and wind, so the snow stays fresh longer.

 

But is skiing through treed areas safe? “We have seen significantly less incidents within our glades than outside,” said Cheryl Fullerton of Sugarloaf communications. “This is probably the result of people skiing more conservatively, and with greater caution simply because there are a lot of obvious obstacles.”

 

Sunday River’s Bruce attributes fewer incidents in the glades to the fact that skiers and riders go slower in the glades and they tend to be more experienced.

 

Here are some tips to enhance your glade skiing and riding experience:

 

When you are learning to drive, you are taught to look where you want to go and the car will follow that path. In the trees, you should look for the spaces between the trees and that’s where your boards will head. Conversely, if you focus on the trees, you may end up wrapped around one.

 

Dan Egan, extreme clinic instructor, says, “By looking toward the bright spots down the trail, you will avoid the dark areas – which are generally tight spaces.”

 

“Turning above the trees controls your speed. I recommend making 3-4 turns so that the speed doesn’t overwhelm you,” says Egan. You should be able to dump your speed or stop on short notice.

 

Egan also says, “Keep your options open at all times with at least two routes. If you get stuck in a tight spot, move across the hill laterally until you find an open space.”

 

Also keep in mind the skiers’ adage, “tree wells are not so swell.” If you get too close to a tree, your boards can sink into the softer surrounding snow. Besides, you don’t want to be a bark eater. Respect the trees and don’t strip them of their protective cover. It gets cold in the woods on winter nights. A naked tree is a soon dead tree.

 

An advanced tip - try to make figure eights to existing skier tracks. By turning outside the skied troughs, you will have fresh snow. Just be warned that stumps and roots may lurk below the powdery surface.

 

Egan’s final pearl of tree wisdom, which is strongly endorsed by all ski patrol, “Never ski the woods alone.”

 

Conditions: Sugarloaf and Squaw’s glade trails are open and well covered for some fun tree dodging. Sunday River’s glade trails have been benefiting from recent mountain flurries but could use one more big dump.

 

Bretton Woods’ Rosebrook Canyon is open. This recent expansion offers a plethora of glades with a moderate pitch and consistent snow. Jay Peak is noted for an extensive glade network encompassing over 200 acres, and the most snow in New England.

 

Events: Members of the U.S. Ski Team will be at the Chevy Truck Super Series/Nor Am at Sunday River Feb. 27 - March 2.  Here’s a chance to see some of our Olympians, without NBC editing.

---

“Little Changes at Big Squaw”

Feb. 17, 2002

By Heather Burke

 

During the two and half hour drive from Portland to isolated Greenville, we see only snowmobile trailers, no ski racks. The expansive Moosehead Lake is a centerpiece for winter fun seekers. Snowmobilers, snowshoers, moose spotters and ice fisherman have discovered this outdoor retreat, but not too many skiers.

 

We are finally greeted by indication of a ski area. “Ski the View,” the vintage billboard reads at the base of Squaw’s narrow access road. This is the only promotion for Big Squaw Mountain Resort you are likely to see, as they don’t have a marketing campaign, and certainly not a web site.

 

The photocopied brochure and trail map states, “Maine’s Own Little Gem.”

 

We set out to explore this self-proclaimed jewel first by riding the triple chair on the lower mountain. Here we ski the handful of meandering intermediate trails, and delight in having the Saint John trail all to ourselves. The soft, quiet natural snow underfoot is a treat.

Squaw’s principal lift is the 1967 summit double, which climbs 1,750’ vertical in about 12 minutes. As we are scooped up by the quirky old lift, I have a flashback of riding a chair just like this as a kid. Flash-forward, I am seated next to my child, professing about skiing in the good old days when I wore Rossi Stratos and a hat with a huge pom-pom.

 

Along the ride, Moosehead Lake and mile-high Mt. Katahdin come in to magnificent view. Now I “See the View” and can begin to appreciate the genius behind the ski area slogan.

 

At the top, there’s a rustic warming hut and aging signs pointing to a choice of time-honored trails. Black diamond runs like Seboomok, Piscataquis and Saint Croix offer exciting pitches from the summit mixed in with twists and drop-offs for unpredictability along the way. The lift line trail offers steeps, jumps, and cliffs – skiing the way Mother Nature intended.

 

The exceptions to these challenging trails are the two and a half mile East Branch trail and two-mile Penobscot, these more wide-open staples have substantial snowmaking and daily grooming, making them popular for cruising and incredible sightseeing. 

 

32-year ski patrol veteran Sandy McFarland explained that Sel Hannah, the legendary trail designer, laid out Squaw’s trail system, including recently developed glades that were part of his original plans. “The Penobscot Trail was mentioned in Sel Hannah’s obituary as his best work,” said McFarland.

 

If Sunday River represents the so-called new school with high-speed lifts and terrain parks, then Big Squaw is old school. Little has changed since 1963, when Scott Paper began this mountain playground. “Here at Squaw, we’re mired somewhere between 1968 and 1972,” says McFarland.

 

Some of the lift towers are padded with mattresses shrink-wrapped at a local Moosehead marina. There are no half pipes, but the entire mountain plays like an adventure park with natural contours and winding glades. Riders hand pack their own jumps and hits.

 

New at Squaw, (an oxymoron), are a few wild glade trails like West Branch and Jacob’s Ladder. These natural paths warrant their double black status, which are handwritten on the trail map and on mountain signs.

 

Beyond the unbelievable view and unaltered terrain, there is an indomitable aura at this time-tested ski area. Kids brought up on quads and white carpet boulevards would do well to ski the natural snow conditions and ride the modest (did I mention long?) double chair.

 

During one of our 15 ascents, my nine-year-old shared something that had been troubling him. He would not have had the time to find the words during a speedy detachable ride. So this is what they mean by quality time, in a land where time stands almost still.

 

Big Squaw Mountain is humorously humble. There is neither resort village nor mid-mountain eateries. The base lodge is pure 70’s, hosting a rental shop, game room and bar. Lunch is a buffet table lined with crock-pots of homemade soups and chili, plus the usual fare.

 

“Who could ask for more?” reads the print material. At 50 cents for a hot cocoa, I couldn’t think of anything. The prices are old-fashioned, lift tickets are $20 midweek and $28 on weekends for adults, kids 4 and under ski free. 

 

The “new” owner, as of 1995, James Confalone of Miami car wash fortunes, has plans to continue upgrading the on-mountain hotel, which currently rents basic rooms for $109 a night.

 

“Mr. Confolane has permits for a top of the mountain restaurant, and plans for a new indoor heated pool and hot tubs in the Hotel,” said Willie Charles, Hotel Manager at Big Squaw.

 

For now, things remain rather rustic and unchanged. That includes the controversial name of Squaw itself. “No one wants to offend anyone, it’s an historical name,” said McFarland. “As far as Mr. Confalone is concerned, that discussion is over.” Good news, since the ski area is on what appears to be a shoestring budget. Replacing thirty-year-old signs, retyping the trail map and make new photocopies would be pricey.

 

If you long for ultra-wide man-made corduroy, high- tech lifts, cushy chairs, slopeside spas and boutiques, then Squaw is not your ticket. If however, you want to get away from that scene and ski some truly awesome classic New England terrain on natural snow that holds up all day due to minimal skier traffic - head to Squaw.

 

Fulltime patroller E.J. Gerrier said, “Come here on a weekday and 30 people on the hill is a lot.”

 

On a February weekend, we parked within a stone’s throw of the base lodge, skied two- mile-long trails without seeing another skier, and a peak lift line was maybe eight people.

 

Among the hundred or so skiers we saw on the slopes, several were patrollers out skiing together and with their families. The folks who live and play here appreciate their homespun gem of a mountain. “In the afternoon, when we’re doing patrol sweep and the sun lights up Katahdin in the distance, it looks like Kilimanjaro,” says McFarland.

 

The Moosehead Lake Chamber of Commerce website proclaims, “As Yellowstone is to Montana, Yosemite is to California and The Grand Canyon is to Arizona, Moosehead Lake is to Maine.”

 

Leave the fancy ski outfit at home, but go ski this “retro” alpine treasure above the shores of Moosehead Lake. Big Squaw, with its 32 trails, two chairlifts, a handle tow and t-bar, can be reached at 207-695-1000; they even have music on hold these days.

Events: It’s vacation week in Maine and plenty of festivities are in the works at local areas. Family Fun Day is Feb. 21 at Shawnee Peak, featuring a magic show, a noontime barbeque in the courtyard and family friendly events on the mountain. Titcomb offers $5 skiing or riding for Maine Students, college or under, every Friday from 3-9 pm.

 

Conditions: Areas in Northern Maine received several new inches of snow this week. Slopes are well-covered thanks to snowmaking and recent mountain flurries.

---

 

“Out of the Mouths of Babes”

Feb. 10, 2002

By Heather Burke

 

I interview my share of “grown ups” on the technical aspects of skiing, equipment, resort statistics, special events, terrain parks, you know the drill. It seemed appropriate to talk to today’s youngest sliders and find out what is on their minds.

 

After all, “kids say the darnedest things.” It is now apparent to me that somewhere between a kid’s wild imagination and their brutal honesty lies the true essence of this sport we call skiing. I hope you will read on and see if you share my conclusion.

 

First Question: How do ski areas make snow?

 

“They take these big guns and fill them with plastic stuff to make powder. Wait, I think they use cold water that freezes too,” said eleven-year-old Kristin from Falmouth.

 

“Frozen water goes through a vented thing and it slices up the little pieces of ice with a lot of force, and it comes out snow,” said nine-year-old snowboarder Sean from Kennebunk.

 

Question Two: What is vertical drop?

 

“That’s when you try to go straight down without stopping, it’s very fast,” said six-year-old Jacquelyn from Scituate.

 

“Vertical Drop is when you fall off the chairlift,” said eleven-year-old snowboarder Michael from Boston.

 

“No it’s not silly,” replied his six-year-old sister Katryn. “ It means black diamond.”

 

“Vertical drop, it’s like so steep, almost straight down,” said eight-year-old Sam from Kittery.

 

“You mean we’re going to be in the newspaper with our names and everything,” said Kristin.

 

Question Three: How much does skiing cost?

 

“I have no clue,” said seven-year-old Burton (yes, that’s really his name- but he’s a skier).

 

“It’s super expensive, a lot more than my allowance,” said Katryn.

 

“It’s like $50, but when you stay overnight in a hotel by the ski mountain, then it gets really to be a lot, like $1,000 and something,” said nine-year-old Ethan from Portland.

 

“Skiing cost like $50, but five-year-olds ski free, even if you’re not really five,” said ten-year-old Holly from Falmouth.

 

“It costs a lot, like $90 or something. I’m glad I don’t have to pay, ” said Michael.

 

“I know it’s really expensive so I thanked my parents for bringing me today,” said seven-year-old Gabrielle from Newport.

 

“My dad is on the Ski Patrol so we ski free, he does too – well kind of, he has to pull a sled and stuff when people get hurt and he talks on a radio thing,” said seven-year-old James from Farmington.

 

Question Four: Why do we have Ski Patrol?

 

“So people won’t kill themselves,” said Michael.

 

“To keep us under control,” said Kristin.

 

“If someone is going way too fast they give them a ticket,” said seven-year-old Bradley.

 

“No,” said big brother Sam, “ that’s when they take your ticket away.”

 

“If anyone gets hurt they bring them to the Aid place, but they also make sure nothing bad is happening on the mountain,” said Sean.

 

Question Five: Who’s your favorite on mountain mascot?

 

“There are three mascots at Sugarloaf, but I like Blueberry the Bear and Amos the Moose best,” said eight-year-old Emily, who skis Sugarloaf every weekend. She highly recommends skiing the Moose Alley trail to kids who haven’t found it yet.

 

“That would have to be Sean from last year’s Survivor. You know the guy who did the alphabet strategy,” said Kristin. In his first day ever on the slopes, Sean learned to ski and competed in a charity fundraiser for Angel Flight at Bretton Woods. “He snow plowed the whole course and he was so funny to watch.”

 

“My favorite mascot that skis? My Dad,” said Burton.

 

Question Six: Most embarrassing moment on skis?

 

“When my Dad goes “Yeehaa” on the chairlift and everyone looks at us,” said eight-year-old Ashley of Gray.

 

“When I was first learning, I fell in to one of those big holes around the lift towers. My skis came off and I couldn’t get out. My brother laughed at me. Actually, it was pretty funny,” said Burton.

 

“My father practically killed himself on a mogul,” said Jacquelyn.

 

“My Grandpa knocked me off the lift, then he fell off trying to save me. That was embarrassing,” said Ethan.

 

“I was going a little too fast and when I tried to stop, I fell. My board came up and hit me on the head and I got a big gash. People saw me. I didn’t have my helmet on, I wish I did. We were supposed get me a new helmet, because I just grew out of my old one,” said Sean.

 

Question Seven: What do you love about skiing?

 

“I like going down hard trails because that’s really challenging,” said Emily.

 

“I like going fast and feeling the air rush by me,” said Sean. “I like how you can glide through the snow and slide down the hill without having to run.”

 

“I like to cruise. It feels really good to go fast down the hill,” said Holly.

 

“I love going fast,” said Sam. “I love going off jumps,” said seven-year-old brother Bradley.

 

“I like being in the snow and I love the halfpipe,” said Michael. “Dad takes us skiing so Mom can have quiet time at the house while we’re gone,” said his six-year-old skiing sister Katryn.

 

“I love the hot cocoa breaks, and I won the Gold medal in the Nastar Race,” said Gabrielle.

 

“I love the freedom of skiing and being outside,” said Jacquelyn.

 

Question Eight: What don’t you like about skiing?

 

“Mom tells me I should do pizza pies, but that just makes me go slower,” said Ryan, a four-year-old from Boston.

 

“I hate falling, but it’s cool when I fall and slide and spin on my butt. I end up laughing,” said Kristin.

 

“I hate it when I wipe out,” said Katryn.

 

“I hate flats,” said her snowboarder brother Michael.

 

“I don’t like getting cold,” said Emily. “And it’s a pain going to the restroom when you have to take all your ski clothes off.”

 

“Falling and getting stuck when you can’t get up, but sometimes it’s funny too” said Jacquelyn.

 

“Wiping out,” said Holly.

 

Final Question: What are your friends who don’t ski doing today?

 

“Probably playing Nintendo,” said Katryn.

 

“Watching TV, but they’re not having as much fun as me,” said Michael.

 

The message here: Take your kids skiing for thrills, chills, spills and laughs.

 

Conditions: Maine ski slopes are wide-open. Base depths aren’t huge, averaging 10-30 inches, but you only ski on the top few inches anyways. Cold temps and more snow in the forecast bode well for the upcoming February vacation week.

 

Events: Sugarloaf hosts the Maine Special Olympics Feb.10-12 for the 20th year.
Over five hundred athletes from seventy-three Maine communities will compete in Nordic, Alpine and snowshoe events, plus snowboarding will be displayed as a demonstration sport.

 

Mt Abram will offer a Valentine’s lift ticket of $10 for any betrothed couple on Feb. 14, just flaunt your engagement ring at the ticket window. Lost Valley has a Sweetheart’s Special, two can night-ski for the price of one 5pm-9pm on Feb. 14.

---

 

“Ski Getaways offer Romance”

February 3, 2002

By Heather Burke

 

Valentine’s Day approaches. The pressure mounts to conjure up an amorous scheme for your special someone. Why not whisk your loved one away to a romantic ski lodge? Picture the cozy setting of a crackling fire, the two of you sipping après ski toddies after an invigorating day on the snow-covered slopes. Perhaps you might even have the good fortune to get snowed-in.

 

Here are some lodging properties that ooze alpine charm and a dose of vertical.

 

At The Pitcher Inn in Warren, Vermont, the gracious staff will carry your ski bags and light the fireplace in your themed room. Each room of this 1993 authentically rebuilt Inn has a unique character. The Mountain Room, the Trout Room, and the Mallard Room are a few of the sixteen architecturally appointed suites.

 

I personally recommend the Ski Room, modeled after a vintage ski lodge and filled with memorabilia including wooden skis and a flexible flyer sled, even a hand painted 1950’s ski mural. Sounds rustic, but it is actually extremely well-appointed, right down to the steam shower and the hidden TV that magically appears from beneath a genuine ski area “lost and found” bin.

 

The Innkeeper explained that the Hollywood film crowd frequents this one of a kind Vermont inn and their Alta Spa across the street, but he would not reveal names. Good innkeepers don’t kiss and tell out of respect for their guests’ privacy. Too bad, it would have made a great anecdote – Hollywood moguls descend upon Vermont moguls.

 

Skiing nearby Sugarbush or Mad River Glen by day and returning to your special themed room at The Pitcher Inn each night would surely get Cupid’s seal of alpine approval.

 

The Mount Washington Hotel at Bretton Woods in New Hampshire is a magically romantic setting in the White Mountains. This year marks the 100^th birthday of the historic hotel, which has been restored to its 1902 grandeur in recent years. The hotel opened for winters two seasons ago, making it one of the most palatial ski and stay places in New England.

 

A short shuttle ride across Route 302 is Bretton Woods Ski Resort, now New Hampshire’s largest ski area. In recent years the ski area has dramatically expanded terrain and added two quad lifts.

 

What was once a snooze of a ski area now has something for everyone. The wide-open cruisers and the more classic meandering trails tucked between are all groomed to perfection. The new gladed runs on both the eastern and western flanks of the mountain are fun and naturally challenging. Bretton Woods’ ego-pleasing runs are all framed by the incredible view of Mount Washington, and the landmark Hotel below.

 

The calendar of events at this resort is as extensive as the famous guest list at the century old hotel. For Valentine’s, skiers can engage in a couples’ slalom race, a matching skiwear contest (sounds amusing), and a sweethearts’ après ski party with live musical entertainment.

 

Staying at the Hotel Mt Washington is as grand as it gets. Formal evening dining and dancing, live shows in the Cave nightclub – it’s like a skiing cruise ship without the obligatory lifeboat drill.

 

Sugarloaf has a romantic style that’s all its own. That’s why Loafers are so passionate about their setting. The slopeside ambiance at the Grand Summit Hotel or the Sugarloaf Inn, though not of the same opulence as the previously mentioned destinations, are charmingly comfy – more like flannel pajamas.

 

After your day cruising the mellow trails of Whiffletree or bashing the bumps on Bubblecuffer, you and yours can stroll to the shops, restaurants, and lively pubs that make The Loaf so special. There is a sense of friendship and well being at this Maine winter oasis, which should make you and your ski buddy feel warm and fuzzy.

 

These resorts offer just the right formula for a romantic ski getaway. Plenty of alpine exhilaration by day, fantastic après ski activities, fine dining and luxurious accommodations.

 

I don’t believe the Italian, Saint Valentine, was a skier back in 270 A.D., but as an advocate of couples in love, I’m sure he would approve of getting out on the slopes for some R & R, recreation and romance. A little vertical drop makes the horizontal bop that much sweeter on Valentine’s Day.

 

Events: If you propose to your sweetie at Cranmore on Feb. 14, you will be entered for a drawing to win a two-night getaway with lift tickets. If there wasn’t already reason enough to pop the question.

 

Conditions: “The real elite core skiers are going to the Internet and watching the satellite snow line, so they know the mountains are receiving snow. The weather in people’s backyards is no indicator of what’s happening at ski areas. It’s packed powder conditions in the mountains,” said Greg Sweetser, Executive Director of Ski Maine.

 

Some higher elevation Maine resorts received up to four feet of snow January, despite the many ups and downs on the barometer.

 

The Pats proved their love of snow during a recent playoff win. Be a good fan and ski until four today. You will still be home in plenty of time for the evening Game (you may miss a few hours of pre-game drivel).

---

 

“Handicapped Ski Program extends beyond love of the sport”

January 27, 2002

By Heather Burke

 

At Maine Handicapped Skiing’s 20th anniversary celebration, Les Otten said, “When you open your book of life and look at the events that are worth remembering, I think of my lovely wife, my kids, the friends who have stuck by me, my parents. I also remember a letter that I received from Chip Crothers, who is now a close friend.”

 

The letter Otten is referring to was dated April 14, 1982 from Dr. Crothers, a Portland orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Crothers wrote of, “a delightful 5-year-old child with cerebral palsy who skis at Sunday River.” Dr Crothers proposed “the possibility of starting a handicapped ski program.”

 

Otten’s response, one month later, reads “Skiing is certainly an activity which lends itself well to many of the handicapped community, and I feel the company would certainly be willing to participate to try and develop such a program.”

 

Also enclosed in his letter was information on a condominium sale. Dr. “Chip” Crothers bought that Sunday River condo, and got the proverbial snowball rolling.

 

What started as a concept on paper and a handful of volunteers has grown to the largest handicapped ski organization in New England with 20 years of incredible results.

 

Maine Handicapped Skiing now serves over 235 students, ranging in age from 6 on up. Students come from all over Maine and New England, with physical disabilities ranging from hearing and vision impairment, amputations, spinal and brain injuries.

 

There has never been a charge to students in the twenty-year history of MHS - all lessons, lift tickets, and equipment are free. This is a result of fundraisers, donations and the efforts of over 350 volunteers.

 

The Ski A Thon was launched 17 years ago, and last year raised over $270,000, making it Maine’s largest one-day fundraiser. “MHS is supported entirely through donations from individuals and companies and through Ski-A-Thon pledges,” said Betsey Doyon, Executive Director.

 

Les Otten said, “I knew once we started the Ski-A-Thon, that we would have the funding to make it big.”

 

MHS is big indeed, now offering instruction in skiing, snowboarding, cross-country and snowshoeing to over two hundred students.

 

New this year, MHS is offering a Junior Volunteer training program for 16-17 year olds and the debut of a Handicapped Race team.

 

MHS’s new Development Race Team of eleven students will participate in three U.S. Disabled Giant Slalom races, two in New Hampshire and the first ever in Maine at Sunday River on Feb. 9.

 

“These are highs school kids, who don’t get to compete on their school’s team. We can now provide them with the experience of being on a team, training, working hard toward a goal and competing with others at different ski mountains,” said Terrie Anne Guay, MHS Program Director and coach.

 

These latest programs are the brainchild of Terrie-Anne, who joined the organization last season. Guay brings with her a stellar resume as a Level 3 PSIA Adaptive and Alpine certified examiner and author of many articles on adaptive and alpine skiing.

 

“Terrie Ann-Guay has been a blessing. She brings so much experience and energy. She is responsible for attracting young kids that are into racing. This year we will host our first Level 1 Race at Sunday River on Feb. 9,” said Bill Stearns, an MHS volunteer since 1996.

 

Stearns, a Portland resident, said, “I got hooked by a friend who was post-polio. At the time I was just a recreational skier, not very good. Now I am a certified Level 2 PSIA instructor, my skiing has really improved, I enjoy it so much more, and I have gotten so much out of my involvement with this organization.

 

That seems to be a common theme among the MHS volunteers - they insist they get more than they give. “What’s awesome is the volunteers have huge hearts. And everything in the program comes around. The volunteers’ skiing improves with the training we offer, so they feel better about their skills and are more enthusiastic with the students. In turn everyone learns together, has fun, and shares in the love of the sport,” said Guay.

 

Otten said, “Chip and I have taken so much more from the organization than we have given. It is a fantastic bandwagon.”

 

If you would like to get on the “bandwagon,” you should consider participating in this year’s Ski-A-Thon at Sunday River on March 16. Teams of up to 5 who raise a minimum of $600 receive free lift tickets, a goodie bag of donated sponsor items, plus slopeside breakfast and lunch. The day’s fun events conclude with an après ski awards party.

 

You can also become involved as a volunteer. Each volunteer gives 10 days a season to assist in teaching skiing and snowboarding, even driving snowmobiles.

 

Ken Conant of Westbrook joined as a volunteer last season. “The people at MHS do a great job of matching students to volunteers. As a new member, you are paired up with an experienced volunteered so there is plenty of hands-on training. I have learned so much and really enjoy it. I have since been able to recruit my son’s friend who has MS, so he can pursue his love of snowboarding.”

 

The benefits of volunteering at MHS obviously go well beyond free skiing at Sunday River.

 

You can contact Maine Handicapped Skiing at 207-824-2440 or visit www.skimhs.com.

 

Events:  It’s White White World Week at Sugarloaf, a yearly event, which started in the 70’s. $29 lift tickets and $59 ski and stay packages are available Jan. 28- Feb. 1 at Sugarloaf. Daily on-mountain contests and nightly theme parties are part of the week’s celebration. 

 

Conditions: Mid winter skiing is here. Plenty of snow coverage and almost all of the terrain is now open. It will be February this week. What are you waiting for? Get out and ski!

---

 

"Vertical Challenge: For these Sugarloafers it’s personal"

January 20, 2002

by Heather Burk

 

Scott Wentzell was Director of Marketing at Sugarloaf during the first Vertical Challenge three years ago. “Sugarloaf hosts so many charitable events. I remember that the Ronald McDonald House fundraiser was one of the many causes that everyone at Sugarloaf got behind and gave their full support. I never thought at the time that I would ever need the support of a service like the Ronald McDonald House.”

 

Scott Wentzell and his soon- to-be wife Lisa started working at Sugarloaf in 1993. “Getting in to the ski biz was a dream for me. My passion has always been Sugarloaf,” said Wentzell

 

Scott is a third generation Sugarloafer. His grandfather was one of the original Bigelow Boys and served as the first treasurer of the Sugarloaf Ski Club. “My mom was the first person to ride the Constam T-bar at the ribbon cutting and dedication in January 1956,” said Wentzell.

 

Scott and Lisa gave birth to their son Scott Jr., on November of 2000. Scotty had a heart condition and was sent to the intensive care unit of Maine Medical, where he underwent open-heart surgery at 5 days old.

 

“I knew of the Ronald McDonald House primarily because of the first Vertical Challenge we had hosted the previous winter at Sugarloaf,” said Wentzell. “We spent most of our time in the hospital and thanks to the Ronald McDonald House in Portland we could focus on Scotty without worrying about where to stay or eat, we had a home away from home,” said Wentzell.

 

The Wentzell’s had to leave Sugarloaf in the middle of last season and relocate closer to medical facilities. Scotty’s surgery was the night before the 50^th anniversary Sugarloafer Ball.

 

“Everyone at Sugarloaf was so incredibly supportive of us and of Scotty, they were such good friends. Sugarloaf will always be an important part of our family,” said Lisa.

 

Scotty has recovered from his surgeries. “He is really doing well,” said Lisa Wentzell “Now we can look forward to getting him on the slopes.” 

 

“Skiing is in our blood,” said Scott, “I have a photo of myself getting on the gondola in 1967 when both the gondola and I were less than 1 year old. Scotty already has his first season pass, but I think three will be the magic age for getting him skiing.”

 

“Our experience taught me the more you support these services, the more support will be there when you or a family member might need it,” said Scott Wentzell. “I have also learned not to take anything for granted.”

 

“I definitely plan to participate in this year’s Vertical Challenge. It is a fun day from the skiing to the auction. To me, the event has become so personal and I have learned so much about the Ronald McDonald House and how their charity supports so many other Maine causes.”

Last year, the Vertical Challenge doubled net proceeds from the first event. This year’s target is $50,000. All of the money goes to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), which contributes to dozens of non-profit children's organizations throughout Maine.  In 2001, RMHC of Maine donated more than $130,000 to local children's organizations, including the Center for Grieving Children, Camp Susan Curtis, Camp Sunshine, and East End Children's Workshop. 

 

The Vertical Challenge takes place on Jan. 26 at Sugarloaf. The goal for participants is to gain vertical – vertical feet translate into dollars raised for RMHC of Maine. The first method to gaining vertical is for every $25 raised - you receive 1,000 vertical feet. On the day of the event, skiers and riders can take as many runs as possible on designated trails from 9:30am – 1:00pm to gain vertical. Prizes are awarded to those with the most vertical feet and the top all around fundraiser.

 

Skiers and snowboarders can register for one of three different levels: Boardwalk at $100 includes entry, lunch and an all-day lift ticket, Cruiser at $800 also includes a pair of Rossignol Rebel skis or a Rossi snowboard, and Snowfields at $1,000 gets you a pair of Rossi Bandit skis.

 

Those interested should pre-register, to get your preferred ski size, by calling 797-7130 or visiting www.sugarloaf.com. Registration will be taken the morning of the event, Jan. 26 at the Sugarloaf Inn.

 

The fun filled day of skiing concludes with an après ski party at the Sugarloaf Inn with live and silent auction items donated from Maine businesses, with all proceeds going to Ronald McDonald House Charities. Rossignol skis and American Airlines tickets are among the auction items up for bid at the auction, which is open to the public.

 

“We are proud to be hosting this event for the third year and we look forward to continuing the event and growing it for many years,” said Jim Costello, Sugarloaf Vice President of Marketing.

 

Even though he no longer works for Sugarloaf, Wentzell looks forward to more free time with his family on the slopes at the Carrabassett Valley resort. “They say once a Sugarloafer always a Sugarloafer, that’s the beauty – you’re always welcome back.”

 

Conditions: Most Maine ski resorts finally have the majority of their terrain open for the long weekend, thanks to several significant snowfalls. Sugarloaf and Sunday River both offer well over 100 trails. Eaton and New Hermon are 100% open. Shawnee Peak and Titcomb are above 90% operation, while Saddleback and Lost Valley have over 75% of their terrain open for skiing and riding. Big Squaw and Camden are at 50% operation.

 

Events: The Budweiser Aerial Assault will be performing at Sunday River Jan. 26 and 27 at noon and with a fireworks show Saturday evening. Watch for impressive aerials on skis and snowboards in the new Superpipe.

---

 

“Excitement Builds in Countdown to the Winter Games”

Sunday, January 13, 2002

by Heather Burke

 

Who knew last year when the US Ski and Snowboard team coined their slogan, “Home of the Brave,” that it would have such poignancy after 9/11? Just as the Yankee’s in the World Series was “good for New York morale,” U.S. victory at the Winter Games would show the world that Americans are tough to beat.

 

With the Utah Winter Games just four weeks away, the U.S. Ski and Snowboard teams are showing their talent and jockeying for position on the official Olympic roster. Most slots on the U.S. team are still up for grabs until the formal team announcements, which begin this week.

 

“The U.S. Ski and Snowboarding Team will be competing in nearly 50 percent of the events with a goal of winning 10 medals - the most ever by the Team,” said Tom Kelly, USSA Vice President.

 

More specifically, New England competitors are planning to make their presence felt in Utah. Here are some local favorites hoping to rake in a few of U.S. Ski Team president Bill Marolt’s predicted 10 Olympic medals.

 

New Hampshire’s Bode Miller has been proving himself this season. He tore through the gates in Aspen to start the season with a second place in Slalom, and has since won three World Cups, one in GS and two in Slalom, plus the Gold Cup at the Olympic venue of Snowbasin. The U.S. hasn’t seen a showing like this since Phil Mahre in the 80’s.

 

Despite rumors, CVA alum Miller did not undergo ACL surgery after his knee injuring crash last February at St. Anton. He has rehabbed his ligament tear and his podium finishes prove his strength. Miller will compete in the slalom, giant slalom and combined events in the Winter Olympics.

 

Eric Schlopy, who grew up skiing at Stowe Vermont and went on to train at Burke Mountain Academy, earned an Olympic team position with his Giant Slalom victory in the Utah Gold Cup on Dec. 29.

 

When Bode Miller beat out Schlopy the next day on the new Olympic combined slalom at Snowbasin, he said, "Eric is one of the fastest slalom skiers in the world, and I'm consistently beating him. I am skiing now as fast as anyone in the world." Just a little friendly competition, I suppose.

 

Teammate Daron Rahlves, a Californian who actually trained at Vermont’s Green Mountain Academy, is also a medal contender, particularly in the speed events. Rahlves said, “I want to be known as the guy who can win the big one at Snowbasin (the Olympic Downhill/Super G).”

 

Rahlves became the World Super G Champ last season in Austria, beating out the two top Austrians, Eberharter and Hermann Maier - who is sidelined due to a summer motorcycle accident. Austria’s loss of the “Hermannator” for Olympic competition may be America’s gain.

 

On the women’s side, Raymond’s own Kirsten Clark started the season off with a ninth place finish at Copper’s World Cup GS in November, followed by eighth in Downhill at Lake Louise just days later. CVA star Clark clinched an exciting third place in Super G on December 22 in St. Moritz. She proved herself in Downhill last season with her first World Cup victory in Switzerland.

 

In a recent interview, “Clarky” credited the hometown support she has received from her native mountain Sugarloaf for much of her success. Coaches refer to her blue-collar work ethic as a key to her accomplishments.

 

“The only downside,” said US Ski Team Coach Tracy, “is she’s no longer the dark horse. When (top ranked) Michaela Dorfmeister sticks around to watch Clarky who’s running 30^th in the downhill to see if she holds onto the gold, that tells me a lot.” Mainers will be sticking around to cheer for you Clarky.

 

Prior to the Olympic showdown in Utah, the US men’s alpine ski team heads to Austria for a final World Cup Slalom Jan.22 and Germany for the last World Cup Downhill and Super G Jan. 26-27. The women’s alpine team has their last Downhill, Super G and GS in Italy Jan. 25-27. Olympic alpine team announcements will be Jan. 28.

 

In freestyle, New Hampshire’s own Hannah Hardaway has two second place finishes in moguls this season, in Tignes, France on Dec. 1 and in Germany last week.

 

Evan Dybvig is Vermont’s man to cheer for in the bumps. With eight years on the team and an appearance at Nagano’s Winter Games, Dybvig has plenty of experience. Dybvig has five second place finishes on the World Cup scene. 

 

In women’s aerials, CVA heroine and Massachusetts native Emily Cook won the Gold Cup in Deer Valley on New Year’s Eve, sending a message about next month and earning her a wild card spot on the Olympic team. "I can't believe it; I'm going to the Olympics," said Cook. Emily won last season’s U.S. Championship at Waterville Valley and took third at Deer Valley’s 2001 World Cup.

 

Another CVA alum, Brenda Petzold placed fourth at the Gold Cup, which was televised and included 20,000 spectators, a sizeable crowd at the Olympic venue. 

 

In men’s aerials, Joe Pack, who grew up jumping in New Hampshire, is consistently second, right behind world champion teammate and reigning Olympic gold medallist Eric Bergoust. Aerialists are at Mt. Tremblant today competing in the third of four qualifying events.

 

The last freestyle World Cup event prior to the Utah Games will be held in Lake Placid Jan.18 - 20 to determine final official Olympic team roster.

 

As snowboarding makes its second appearance in Olympic competition, introduced in Nagano in ‘98, there are two events. Snowboard racing is known as PGS (Parallel Giant Slalom – dual race courses, two runs, best combined time wins) and the halfpipe competition is comprised of riders in the Superpipe scored by five judges on individual air, tricks, and overall style.

 

All eyes will be on Connecticut native and CVA grad Jeff Greenwood for snowboard racing. Greenwood had two first place finishes in December, at Whistler and at Park City’s Olympic venue. Greenwood was a skier until age 12 when he tried a friend’s snowboard and was hooked. He then enrolled at CVA and joined the U.S. Snowboard team in ’95, but missed qualifying for the ’98 team for Nagano.

 

In the halfpipe, it’s a Vermont story, fitting since the Green Mountain state is the birthplace of snowboarding. Vermonters Ross Powers of Londonderry and Kelly Clark of Mount Snow swept first place at Mt. Bachelor’s Grand Prix last week. The U.S. women’s halfpipe team also includes Tricia Byrnes of Stratton, who is seeded second behind top ranked Californian Shannon Dunn.

 

Local Olympic invitations aren’t exclusive to competing athletes. David Farrar of Gorham received the high honor of selection as the sole U.S. Olympic freestyle judge.

 

Farrar said, “There are so many U.S. judges that would love this opportunity. I am thrilled to be a part of judging the moguls and aerials. It’s going to be a tremendous event at Deer Valley.” Farrar, ranked 17^th nationally during his career as a freestyle competitor, will serve on the Olympic panel of 10 international judges.

 

Jim Mersereau, a 37-year employee of Cranmore Mountain, has been chosen as one of eleven groomers to fly to Utah and drive a Bombardier on the Olympic Downhill and Super G Course at Snowbasin.

 

Events: Jan. 19, Mt Abram will host an inaugural Parent Child Race on a short Slalom Course with over $1,000 in prizes. You must register by 10am; there is a $2 entry fee with a valid lift ticket.

 

Deals: Mt Abram has introduced a Sunday Sampler. Bring a Saturday lift ticket from any other Maine or New Hampshire ski area and receive a full mountain ticket for $20 on Sunday. “We want to encourage people to give us a try,” said Josh Burns, owner of Mt Abram.

 

Conditions: Snow, real snow, has finally graced us with its presence. The best coverage is still going to be on those trails with a snowmaking base but skiers and riders can now enjoy added variety, softer snow and genuine winter scenery.

---

 

“Numbers attest to snowboarding's growing popularity”

Sunday January 6, 2002

By Heather Burke

 

Snowboarding is “a flash in the pan trend that wouldn’t outlast the season’s snow pack.” I still chuckle when I recall that conversation of 15 years ago. The mountain manager of a Vermont resort where I taught skiing referred to the new-fangled snowboarders as “knuckle draggers on the hill.”

 

He went on to inform me that snowboarding would do nothing but bring the sport down, albeit temporarily, as the “monkey-like teens” were more interested in launching off picnic tables than making runs and that would “get old fast.” He is not looking so clairvoyant these days – is he?

 

He was right about one thing. Riders are creative, eager to achieve air off of any platform. The monkeys have evolved from knuckle draggers to Olympic competitors, replacing picnic tables with highly sophisticated features and mathematically designed halfpipes.

 

Snowboarding now represents 28% of the downhill participants in the U.S., according to Snow Sport Industries America (SIA), the non-profit trade association. Those numbers are up 10% since the previous year, consistently growing since the 80’s. Here in the East, 24% of ski area visits are snowboarders, while in the Pacific Northwest snowboarding represents 42% of the on-slope population.

 

With such rapid growth since Jake Burton’s initial design in 1977, this so-called trend of snowboarding has brought a whole new vocabulary, product line and culture to the slopes.

 

With such a sharp growth curve, you would think chaos would be the only rule in the groundbreaking terrain parks and pipes where snowboarders, skiers and snowbladers all converge for air, hits, and tricks.

 

Improved signage is posted at the entry gates at Sunday River’s parks this season. Whether the signs are actually read is up for debate.

 

“No one reads the signs,” says a Maine high school freshman – himself a telemarker and blade skier.

 

“We try to educate more and more each year, and communication in the parks is getting better,” said Josh Lempert, Sunday River’s Park and Pipe Manager. “We now have signage and park rangers that monitor the parks to make people aware of the dangers and to prevent injuries. By starting with the younger generation, we get the word out about what you should do and should not do in the parks.”

 

Do’s and don’ts exist. For example, inverted aerials and somersaults are no longer allowed. “People are learning to respect the rules more,” said Lempert. “More people are wearing helmets too. It’s a good idea in terrain parks. Eventually it may become a law.”

 

Here are some terrain park and halfpipe tips:

 

“Look before you leap”, says Lempert. “Inspect the park before using it, and check it throughout the day, as elements change constantly due to weather and traffic.”

 

Niki Pilavakis, a professional boardercrosser from Sugarloaf says, “do a speed check before using a jump for the first time to ensure a proper landing.  For example if the snow is very fast, you may overshoot the landing.”

 

“Be courteous and let people have their turn - don't cut in line when clearly people are taking turns to go off a jump,” says Cheryl Fullerton of Sugarloaf Communications. “The next person to jump should signal that they are starting the descent - they may call out “dropping."  Also, have a spotter located by the jump to signal that the landing is clear.”

 

“Don't cross the approach path to a feature and cut off the person headed to the
jump. In that same vein - don't cross under the take off point - someone may jump onto you,” says Sugarloaf’s Fullerton.

 

As the Sunday River sign states, “You are the sole judge of your ability. You control the degree of difficulty. Work your way up.”

  

Park and pipe manager Lempert said, “We offer a variety of elements now from beginner to intermediate and then expert, something we didn’t have in the past. We can recommend to someone the park that’s best for their ability. We have a mini-pipe and Who Ville for starters, intermediate parks are on American Express and Starlight, Rocking Chair is our upper-end.”

 

Lempert explained that on the industry side, there have been dramatic changes and improvements, even seminars on proper engineering of parks. “We have learned a lot by trial and error over the years. Now we use math and physics to lay out the features. We even use GPS and inclinometers to design the terrain.”

 

My personal favorite warning sign reads, “It is your responsibility to control you body on the ground and in the air.” That clearly implies that flailing through the air and careening into others is unacceptable. Sage words anyone can agree with.

 

Ski areas are doing their best to promote safe, sane behavior. Ultimately, it’s up to each skier and rider to understand and appreciate the risks associated with these ever-increasing “terrain” parks.

 

And by the way, what’s up with calling these designated zones “terrain” parks? Is the rest of the ski area not “terrain”?

 

Events: Mt Abram is hosting a TeleMark festival Jan. 12.

 

Conditions: Good snowmaking temperatures have been the saving grace for New England ski areas. Still many Maine areas with limited snowmaking capabilities have a fraction of their terrain open, ranging anywhere from only 10 to as much as 70 percent. Sunday River boasts the most “terrain” in the East with over 32 miles and all eight mountain peaks open. Sugarloaf has over 20 miles of skiing and riding. RSN.com is a good source for up to the moment conditions and daily web cam photos.

Web Developer: IMS-21