Hello for 2005. I wanted to update all those interested on the MFR 2005.

Many of the Paper Companies in Maine (and other states) have realized that they are in the timber business, and not in the land ownership business. So they have sold off the road networks to Land Management companies and retained the rights to the trees. Sounds sensible as it’s trees that make paper products, not roads.

These management companies tend not to be headquartered in the State of Maine, and thus they might be considered 'absentee' owners. The impact to us is as follows: When the roads were under regional control we had more leverage in getting permission to close and use them. Local companies wanted to be seen as helpful to the local economies, thus they would allow rallyists (and other organizations) to use the roads - which would bring income to the local businesses.

We have reached this impasse this year. The roads in the Parmachenee area, as well as "E Town", are no longer open for our use. We have however secured permission to use some new roads: One just south and east of the "big" lake and one in the "town" of Success - just west of Grafton Notch.

The following are the basic changes:

Thursday activities will take place in and around the Town of Bethel. Registration will again be at Sunday River; Tech inspection will be at the firehouse in Bethel; shakedown will be on a good road, 5 miles south of Bethel.

Friday Registration and Tech will remain in the same places as Thursday’s. The Parc Expose and start on Friday will be at the Mexico Rec. Park. The Friday finish will be at the Phoenix, a large lodge located just past the Summit at Sunday River. The restart on Saturday will be at the Sunday River Brewery.

We’re looking forward to another great year. Come join us, either as competitor, service crew or worker.

jb