Sugarloaf

From bittersweet closings to delicious debuts and a dash of Philly "wooder ice," this was a year of change for Maine's dining scene.

Tuesday's storm closed many public schools and state and local offices, while ski areas are welcoming the snow.

In the week since it opened, Sugarloaf’s lift-serviced downhill mountain bike park already attracted hundreds of cyclists. More trails are under construction.

Here is a round-up of new restaurant openings around the state.

At the peak of the storm Thursday, at least 350,000 customers were without power in Maine.

On April 1, a day of fun and foolery worldwide, social media was bursting with hoaxes. Mainebiz didn't fall for them.

Snowmaking has become the cost of doing business. “If you have that, you’re ensured of a good, long season," said one expert. "If not, you’re at the mercy of Mother Nature. I think that’s become even more existential now.”

The expansion increases Sugarloaf's skiable acreage by nearly 10%, and is part of a 2030 “road map,” which includes development of housing and amenities.

With cold nights for snowmaking, Maine's ski areas are looking to rebound from the Dec. 18 rains and flooding, which melted snowpack and washed out roads and infrastructure.

From the mountains to the coast, Monday's heavy rain and strong winds wreaked havoc in Maine.