FOR YOUR HEALTH – Embracing the Great Outdoors: Boosting Heart Health in Maine

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With heart disease remaining a leading cause of death in the United States, more Americans are seeking ways to promote cardiovascular health. Amidst the picturesque landscapes of the northeastern state of Maine, residents and visitors alike are discovering the benefits of outdoor activities for maintaining a healthy heart. From hiking to swimming, the state offers various ways to engage in exercise and leisure activities that contribute to overall well-being.

Cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke, account for nearly one in every four deaths in the U.S. each year. While genetic predisposition and age are factors that cannot be changed, lifestyle choices play a crucial role in preventing or mitigating heart-related health concerns. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both, preferably spread throughout the week, can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall quality of life.

Maine, with its diverse terrain and pristine natural beauty, offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in heart-healthy activities. In central Maine, the state’s rugged interior invites hikers to explore miles of scenic trails, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging treks. For example, the Kennebec Highlands, a vast conservation area spanning over 6,800 acres of protected land, offers trails that cater to various skill levels. Hiking not only provides cardiovascular benefits but also helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, according to the AHA.

Another popular outdoor activity in the region is swimming, which offers a low-impact, full-body workout that strengthens the heart and lungs. In Maine, one prime destination for water-based activities is China Lake, a sprawling 3,922-acre body of water located near the towns of China and Vassalboro, consisting of the East Basin and the West Basin. Here, visitors can swim, boat, or paddleboard, enjoying the refreshing waters while simultaneously improving their cardiovascular health. After a day of recreation, The Landing, a local restaurant situated on the north end of the lake, offers a delightful spot to refuel and enjoy a meal with a beautiful view of the lake.

For those who prefer leisurely activities that still promote heart health, Maine’s countryside also offers ample opportunities for birdwatching, photography, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the state’s picturesque coastline, mountains, and forests. Even moderate activities, such as brisk walking or gentle cycling, can contribute to a healthier heart when done consistently.

The benefits of spending time in nature extend beyond physical health. Research suggests that exposure to natural environments can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, further contributing to a healthier heart. By immersing oneself in Maine’s great outdoors, individuals can nurture both their physical and mental well-being, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.

As the northeastern state of Maine continues to draw outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning landscapes and wide array of activities, residents and visitors can take advantage of these natural resources to promote heart health. Through regular engagement in activities such as hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the beauty of the region, individuals can make strides in preventing or mitigating common heart health concerns and lead a more fulfilling life.

AYCC celebrated opening day for baseball and softball programs

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Waterville Cal Ripken baseball team members Mason Sheets, 8, and Carter Pantermoller, 8, make their way through the Colby College baseball player tunnel during opening ceremonies on Wednesday, April 26. (photo by Missy Brown/Central Maine Photography staff)

by Mark Huard

Waterville Interim Police Chief William Bonney was chosen to throw the first pitch to officially open up the season. (photo by Missy Brown/Central Maine Photography staff)

The Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC), serving the Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCA of Greater Waterville, held a very special opening day for its baseball and softball program on Wednesday, April 26, at the Colby College Baseball Field. More than 200 kids, ages five to 12 participated, along with the Colby College baseball and Thomas College women’s softball teams. The first baseball pitch was thrown out by Waterville Interim Police Chief William Bonney while the first softball pitch was thrown out by Winnie Merrill (former softball player and former New York Yankees manager’s wife). AYCC CEO Ken Walsh paid tribute to “Mr. Baseball” Fran Purnell for his 50 years of volunteer service to the game. Waterville’s Purnell Wrigley Field – a 2/3 MLB licensed replica of Chicago’s Wrigley Field – is named for Purnell.

Waterville Alfond Youth Community Center CEO Ken Walsh said, “We are so pleased that Colby baseball under head coach Jesse Woods was willing to host our opening of the beautiful diamond for our kids. The kids were thrilled to meet the Colby baseball players and the coaches. I was please to see Chief Bill Bonney throw a perfect strike to start the season. It was sad that Fran Purnell could not be there for the first in 50 years due to his illness. If it wasn’t for him, Purnell Wrigley field would not be in use for so many of our boys and girls to play. Fran always said it’s better for these kids to be on the field rather than [on] the streets.”

Waterville Interim Police Chief William Bonney added, “Opening day for baseball is such an exciting time because it marks the coming of summer and it get kids out on the field engaging in one of our most time honored treasures, baseball. I enjoy our community partnerships and I was honored to be asked by the AYCC to throw out the first pitch.”

The Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) is the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization responsible for operating the only merged Boys and Girls Club and YMCA in the United States. Based in Waterville, Maine, the AYCC serves more than 8,000 members annually — including more than 5,000 youth members – through a comprehensive range of youth and community-focused programs, including childcare and afterschool programs, wellness, fitness, aquatics and summer camps. Learn more or donate at www.clubaycc.org.

Adding a deck to your home

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Adding a deck to your home not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also provides an inviting space for outdoor activities and gatherings. In Maine, with its harsh climate and stunning natural beauty, building a deck requires thoughtful planning and consideration. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when adding a new deck, the costs associated with such a project, the options for DIY or hiring a contractor, and how to build a deck that withstands Maine’s weather conditions.

Factors to consider when adding a new deck:

  • Purpose: Determine the primary purpose of your deck, whether it’s for entertaining, relaxation, or enjoying the outdoors. This will help you decide on the size, layout, and design of the deck.
  • Location: Choose a location that balances sun exposure, shade, and privacy while considering the prevailing winds, views, and proximity to your home’s entrance.
  • Materials: Select decking materials based on durability, maintenance requirements, and compatibility with Maine’s climate. Pressure-treated wood, composite materials, and tropical hardwoods are popular choices.
  • Building codes and permits: Familiarize yourself with local building codes and obtain any necessary permits before starting the project. Codes may dictate the size, height, and railing requirements for your deck.
  • Budget: Establish a budget to guide your decisions on materials, design, and whether to hire a contractor or tackle the project yourself.

The cost of building a deck varies depending on factors such as materials, design, and labor. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $15 and $35 per square foot for a basic pressure-treated wood deck. Composite and hardwood materials generally cost more but require less maintenance over time. The overall cost will also depend on the complexity of the design and any additional features such as built-in seating, railings, or lighting.

DIY vs. hiring a contractor: If you have carpentry skills and experience with home improvement projects, building a deck yourself can save on labor costs. However, constructing a deck requires precision and adherence to building codes, which may prove challenging for some homeowners. Hiring a contractor ensures professional results and compliance with local regulations. Before selecting a contractor, obtain multiple quotes, check references, and verify licenses and insurance coverage.

Keep these considerations in mind when building a deck to last in Maine’s harsh climate:

  • Choose the right materials: Opt for materials that resist moisture, decay, and insect damage, such as pressure-treated wood, composite decking, or tropical hardwoods like ipe or mahogany.
  • Proper drainage and ventilation: Ensure adequate spacing between deck boards and a slight slope away from your home to promote water drainage. Adequate ventilation beneath the deck is essential to prevent moisture buildup and potential damage.
  • Protective finishes: Apply a high-quality water-repellent finish or stain to wooden decks to protect against moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and resealing, will prolong the life of your deck.
  • Snow and ice management: Maine’s snowy winters can be hard on decks. Promptly remove snow and ice to prevent moisture damage, and avoid using metal shovels or ice-melting products containing salt, which can harm the deck’s surface.

Additional considerations:

  • Safety features: Install railings, especially for elevated decks, to ensure safety. Choose materials and designs that complement your deck and meet local building codes.
  • Accessibility: Consider adding ramps or wider doorways to accommodate wheelchairs or strollers, ensuring that your deck is accessible to everyone.
  • Lighting: Incorporate outdoor lighting into your deck design for safety and ambiance. Solar-powered or low-voltage LED lights are energy-efficient options.

Adding a deck to your Maine home can enhance its value and provide a beautiful outdoor living space for relaxation and entertainment. By carefully considering factors such as purpose, location, materials, and budget, you can plan a deck that suits your needs and complements your home’s style. When choosing between DIY and hiring a contractor, weigh your experience, available time, and desire for professional results.

Building a deck that lasts in Maine’s harsh climate requires selecting the right materials, ensuring proper drainage and ventilation, applying protective finishes, and managing snow and ice. Don’t forget to pay attention to safety features, accessibility, and lighting to create a welcoming and functional outdoor space.

Investing time and effort in planning, constructing, and maintaining a deck will reward you with a beautiful, durable addition to your home, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of Maine’s outdoors for years to come.

Embrace energy efficiency with heat pumps

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Maine residents are increasingly choosing heat pumps to improve their home’s energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. In this article, we’ll discuss what heat pumps are, their benefits, and the costs associated with upgrading a house with a new heat pump.

What is a heat pump, and how does it differ from traditional systems? Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling by transferring heat between the indoors and outdoors. Unlike traditional systems that generate heat or cool air directly, heat pumps move heat, making them more energy-efficient. They extract heat from the outdoor air during winter and expel indoor heat outdoors during summer.

Benefits of installing heat pumps in Maine:

  • Cost savings: Heat pumps use less energy than traditional systems, reducing electricity and energy costs.
  • Energy efficiency: Heat pumps reduce your home’s carbon footprint and often qualify for federal tax credits and local utility rebates.
  • Versatility: Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, eliminating the need for separate systems.

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using heat pumps over electric, wood heat, or traditional air conditioning:

Advantages:

  • Lower operating costs
  • Improved energy efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions
  • Less maintenance compared to wood-burning systems
  • Enhanced indoor air quality
  • Quiet operation

Disadvantages:

  • Higher upfront costs
  • Limited effectiveness in extreme cold temperatures
  • May require additional insulation or air sealing upgrades

The cost of upgrading with a new heat pump varies depending on the size, type, and installation factors, typically ranging between $4,000 and $7,000 for a ductless mini-split system, including installation. Obtain multiple quotes from local contractors and consider system size, efficiency ratings, and warranties when making a decision.

Heat pumps offer numerous benefits, including cost savings, energy efficiency, and versatility. While there are some drawbacks, such as higher upfront costs and potential limitations in extreme cold, proper planning and installation can help homeowners maximize the advantages of heat pump systems. With the growing focus on sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint, heat pumps represent a smart, environmentally friendly choice for Maine residents.

When choosing a new heat pump for your home, consider factors such as home size, insulation levels, and local climate when choosing a heat pump. A professional contractor can help you select the appropriate system and ensure optimal performance.

Statewide programs like Efficiency Maine offer rebates for qualifying heat pump systems, while federal tax credits and local utility incentives may also be available. Research and take advantage of these programs to offset the upfront costs.

Hire a reputable contractor with experience in heat pump installations, and ask for references and reviews from past clients. A well-installed heat pump system maximizes energy savings and ensures the longevity of your investment.

In conclusion, heat pumps present a compelling option for Maine homeowners looking to improve their home’s energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. By understanding the benefits and limitations of heat pumps, selecting the right system, and taking advantage of financial incentives, you can make a smart, environmentally friendly choice for year-round home comfort.

Seven mistakes to avoid when decluttering your home

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by Christina Giaquinto

The spring cleaning season is always such a great time to refresh your home and everyday lifestyle. Are you already planning to deep clean your carpets and rugs, clean all of your home’s windows, and wipe down all counters and cabinets? These are all fantastic steps to take, but have you thought about taking the time to declutter each room? You may not know it, but if you have a cluttered home, you are unknowingly hurting your mental wellbeing.

It’s true — clutter takes up physical space, uses your mental energy, and can amplify stress and anxiety. In my experience as the Professional Organizer and Brand Ambassador of Modular Closets (a DIY customizable closet system that organizes any space in your home), I have found that decluttering and organizing your home is one surefire way to live healthier and happier. That said, if you want to declutter your home this spring cleaning season, avoid these blunders:

Mistake #1: Thinking You Need to Throw Everything Away

Oftentimes, when one thinks of decluttering, they falsely assume that any and all clutter should just be thrown away. Their reasoning is that if articles of clothing and other clutter have been strewn around the home for a long time, the items are obviously not important and it would be easiest to just toss them out. However, don’t make this mistake, as it can lead to unnecessary waste in landfills. You may also have friends and family who would love the items you no longer want, or you can donate them to charitable causes that need them.

Mistake #2: Keeping an Item You Don’t Need

On that same note, don’t make the mistake of holding onto an article of clothing or other product because you think you might use it in the future. If the item has been sitting in the back of your closet or laying forgotten underneath your bed for months (or years!), then I recommend donating it, giving it away to a friend, or trying to sell it. You get the benefit of less clutter, and the item will go to someone who truly wants to use it. It’s a win-win for you both! Don’t let objects take over you — remember that you always control the items.

Mistake #3: Starting the Decluttering Process Without Planning Piles

I get it — when you finally decide to declutter and organize your home, it can be tempting to just go all-in and start tossing all the items strewn about into one box to sort through later. However, you will streamline the whole process if you plan out your plies first — you can designate a pile of items you will keep, a pile to donate, a pile to sell, and a pile to throw away. Then, you can sort all of the items as you go — then you can easily box up the piles to donate to Goodwill or another organization, place all the items in the “Throw Away” pile into a trash bag, etc.

Mistake #4: Decluttering With Everything Still in the Space

Many people make the mistake of decluttering their drawers, closets, and entire rooms with all of the items still in the space. Don’t commit this blunder, as you can really optimize the decluttering process by first emptying out the closet / room / space before sorting the items. You will be much more cognizant of the items you decide to place back in the space and consider more if you really want to hold onto certain items you haven’t used in a long time. Also, you won’t overlook items that may be hidden under others.

Mistake #5: Keeping Clutter for a Garage Sale That Isn’t on the Calendar

Garage sales are a fun and effective way to rid your home of items you no longer need, make a little profit, and give someone else the chance to enjoy your old items at a very low price — as the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure! However, if you want to hold a garage sale to sell your old items, it is absolutely key to schedule the day and time you plan to hold it. Otherwise, you may end up having to keep pushing the garage sale out as other obligations come up, all the while still holding onto a bunch of items cluttering up your space.

Mistake #6: Decluttering Without a Goal and Intention for Your Space

Having a goal you want to achieve for your space will further optimize the decluttering process. Do you finally want to sort through that jumbled junk drawer in your kitchen? Are you ready to organize all of the clothes in your master bedroom’s closet? Do you have a ton of makeup and other beauty products you really want to declutter and organize? Set your goal and declutter accordingly. This will prevent you from being distracted by any clutter in other spaces — as you achieve one goal, you can then set another goal for another space. One step at a time!

Mistake #7: Decluttering Without a Snack On Hand

Trust me, decluttering and organizing any space can be tiring! This is especially true if you are moving heavy boxes and equipment around. So keep your energy and momentum up by having a tasty snack nearby at all times. This can also make the process more fun and enjoyable!

To Wrap It All Up

Are you ready to declutter and organize your home this spring cleaning season? Good for you! You can make the decluttering process much more efficient by avoiding some common mistakes others make, like thinking you need to throw everything away, decluttering while everything is still in the space, and keeping clutter for a garage sale that isn’t yet on the calendar. Also, do not be so hard on yourself, because this process is a lot! The fact that you are working on your space to make it better is truly such an accomplishment. Good luck!

Christina Giaquinto is the Professional Organizer and Brand Ambassador of Modular Closets (DIY customizable closet units that organize any space in your home).

Easy home lawn care for Mainers: Tips and tricks for a beautiful lawn

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Hey there fellow Mainers! Keeping a beautiful lawn in our great state can be a bit of a challenge, given our cold winters and unpredictable weather. But fear not, we’re here to help you make lawn care a breeze. In this article, we’ll discuss easy home lawn care tips, including how to repair damage from snow plows, fix bare patches, and revive grass killed by cold.

First things first, it’s essential to choose the right type of grass for our Maine climate. Cool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescue, are better suited for our cold winters and can handle temperature fluctuations. These varieties will give you a lush, green lawn once the snow melts.

Snow plows can sometimes wreak havoc on your lawn, leaving deep ruts and torn-up grass in their wake. To fix this, start by removing any dead grass and debris, then fill in the ruts with a mixture of topsoil and compost. Level the soil with a rake, and reseed the area with a grass mix suited for Maine. Water the area regularly, and you should see new growth in a few weeks.

Bare patches can be an eyesore, but they’re relatively easy to fix. Begin by raking the area to remove any dead grass and loosen the soil. Mix some compost or peat moss into the soil to improve drainage, then spread grass seed over the area. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and water regularly until new growth appears.

Cold temperatures can cause grass to turn brown and appear dead, but don’t give up on it just yet! Rake away any dead grass, and give the area a good watering. As temperatures warm, the grass should start to green up again. If it doesn’t, reseed the area following the steps outlined above.

To keep your lawn looking its best, follow a regular maintenance schedule. Mow regularly, but avoid cutting the grass too short, as this can cause stress and encourage weeds. Aerate your lawn in the spring and fall to improve air circulation and nutrient uptake, and fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for cool-season grasses.

To minimize your environmental impact, consider using organic fertilizers and pest control methods. Collect and use rainwater for irrigation, and leave grass clippings on the lawn to decompose and return nutrients to the soil. Planting native plants and flowers around your lawn can also help support local wildlife and pollinators.

Taking care of your lawn in Maine doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these easy home lawn care tips, you’ll be on your way to having a beautiful, healthy lawn that’s the envy of the neighborhood. So grab your gardening gloves, and let’s get to work!

Liberty student named to Abilene Christian University’s fall dean’s honor roll (2023)

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Cassondra Heath, of Liberty, was named to the Abilene Christian University, in Abilene, Texas, fall 2022 dean’s honor roll. Heath is a freshman majoring in music teaching.

Local residents earn award from WGU

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The following local residents have earned an Award of Excellence at Western Governors University, in Salt Lake City, Utah. The award is given to students who perform at a superior level in their coursework.

Whitney Poplawski, of Augusta, has earned an Award of Excellence at Western Governors University Leavitt School of Health.

Brenda Ryder, of Liberty, has earned an Award of Excellence at Western Governors University College of Business.

Local residents named to Simmons U. dean’s list

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The following local students were named to the 2022 fall semester dean’s list at Simmons University, in Boston, Massachusetts: Emma Soule, of Farmingdale, Abigail Bloom, of Waterville, and Maddie Beckwith, of Winslow.

SCORES & OUTDOORS: A week with the dolphins

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Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

I will start this column by saying I know we don’t have any of these around here, but on a recent vacation to the Outer Banks, of North Carolina, I saw several of them.

A group of us rented a house on the beach in Nags Head, North Carolina, for a week of relaxation. Every morning, it became ritual to awake before sunrise, walk out to a gazebo near the beach and watch the rising sun. To our surprise, and delight, we experienced an unexpected daily show by dolphins, in the distance.

Now, let’s make this clear as we delve into the world of this intelligent creature. Dolphins are not fish, they are mammals.

A dolphin is an aquatic mammal. There are 40 extant species named as dolphins.

Though not quite as flexible as seals, some dolphins can briefly travel at speeds of 18 mph or leap about 30 ft. Dolphins use their conical teeth to capture fast-moving prey. They have well-developed hearing which is adapted for both air and water. It is so well developed that some can survive even if they are blind. Some species are well adapted for diving to great depths. They have a layer of fat, or blubber, under the skin to keep warm in the cold water.

Dolphins are widespread. Most species prefer the warm waters of the tropic zones, but some, such as the right whale dolphin, prefer colder climates. Dolphins feed largely on fish and squid, but a few, such as the orca, feed on large mammals such as seals. Male dolphins typically mate with multiple females every year, but females only mate every two to three years. Calves are typically born in the spring and summer months and females bear all the responsibility for raising them. Dolphins produce a variety of vocalizations, usually in the form of clicks and whistles.

A dolphin ear has specific adaptations to the marine environment. In humans, the middle ear works as an impedance equalizer between the outside air’s low impedance and the cochlear fluid’s high impedance. In dolphins, and other marine mammals, there is no great difference between the outer and inner environments. Instead of sound passing through the outer ear to the middle ear, dolphins receive sound through the throat, from which it passes through a low-impedance fat-filled cavity to the inner ear.

A dolphin eye is relatively small for its size, yet they do retain a good degree of eyesight. As well as this, the eyes of a dolphin are placed on the sides of its head, so their vision consists of two fields, rather than a binocular view like humans have. When dolphins surface, their lens and cornea correct the nearsightedness that results from the water’s refraction of light.

The olfactory lobes and nerve are absent in dolphins, suggesting they have no sense of smell.

Dolphins are not thought to have a good sense of taste, as their taste buds are atrophied or missing altogether. Some have preferences for different kinds of fish, indicating some ability to taste.

Brain size was previously considered a major indicator of the intelligence of an animal. Since most of the brain is used for maintaining bodily functions, greater ratios of brain to body mass may increase the amount of brain mass available for more complex cognitive tasks.

Self-awareness is seen, by some, to be a sign of highly developed, abstract thinking. Self-awareness, though not well-defined scientifically, is believed to be the precursor to more advanced processes like meta-cognitive reasoning (thinking about thinking) that are typical of humans. Research in this field has suggested that dolphins possess self-awareness. The most widely used test for self-awareness in animals is the mirror test in which a mirror is introduced to an animal, and the animal is then marked with a temporary dye. If the animal then goes to the mirror in order to view the mark, it has exhibited strong evidence of self-awareness.

Dolphins are highly social animals, often living in pods of up to a dozen individuals, though pod sizes and structures vary greatly between species and locations. What we saw everyday was a pod of about a dozen dolphins.

Dolphins communicate using a variety of clicks, whistle-like sounds and other vocalizations. Dolphins also use nonverbal communication by means of touch and posturing.

Dolphins also display culture, something long believed to be unique to humans (and possibly other primate species). In May 2005, a discovery in Australia found Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins teaching their young to use tools.

Dolphins engage in acts of aggression towards each other. The older a male dolphin is, the more likely his body is to be covered with bite scars. Male dolphins can get into disputes over companions and females. Acts of aggression can become so intense that targeted dolphins sometimes go into exile after losing a fight.

Reports of cooperative human-dolphin fishing date back to the ancient Roman author and natural philosopher Pliny the Elder. Dolphins drive fish towards fishermen waiting along the shore and signal the men to cast their nets. The dolphins’ reward is the fish that escape the nets.

Dolphins have few marine enemies. Some species or specific populations have none, making them apex predators. For most of the smaller species of dolphins, only a few of the larger sharks, such as the bull shark, dusky shark, tiger shark and great white shark, are a potential risk, especially for calves. Some dolphin species are at risk of extinction, especially some river dolphin species such as the Amazon river dolphin, and the Ganges and Yangtze river dolphin, which are critically or seriously endangered. A 2006 survey found no individuals of the Yangtze river dolphin. The species now appears to be functionally extinct.

Pesticides, heavy metals, plastics, and other industrial and agricultural pollutants that do not disintegrate rapidly in the environment concentrate in predators such as dolphins. Injuries or deaths due to collisions with boats, especially their propellers, are also common.

In Greek myths, dolphins were seen invariably as helpers of mankind. Dolphins also seem to have been important to the Minoans, judging by artistic evidence from the ruined palace at Knossos. During the 2009 excavations of a major Mycenaean city at Iklaina, a striking fragment of a wall-paintings came to light, depicting a ship with three human figures and dolphins. Dolphins are common in Greek mythology, and many coins from ancient Greece have been found which feature a man, a boy or a deity riding on the back of a dolphin.

Although dolphins generally interact well with humans, some attacks have occurred, most of them resulting in small injuries. Fatal attacks from other species are less common, but there is a registered occurrence off the coast of Brazil in 1994, when a man died after being attacked by a bottlenose dolphin named Tião. Tião had suffered harassment by human visitors, including attempts to stick ice cream sticks down her blowhole.

A number of militaries have employed dolphins for various purposes from finding mines to rescuing lost or trapped humans. The military use of dolphins drew scrutiny during the Vietnam War, when rumors circulated that the United States Navy was training dolphins to kill Vietnamese divers. The United States Navy denies that at any point dolphins were trained for combat. Dolphins are still being trained by the United States Navy for other tasks as part of the U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program. The Russian military is believed to have closed its marine mammal program in the early 1990s. In 2000 the press reported that dolphins trained to kill by the Soviet Navy had been sold to Iran.

In some parts of the world, such as Taiji, Japan and the Faroe Islands, dolphins are traditionally considered as food, and are killed in harpoon or drive hunts. Dolphin meat is consumed in a small number of countries worldwide, which include Japan and Peru (where it is referred to as chancho marino, or “sea pork”). While Japan may be the best-known and most controversial example, only a very small minority of the population has ever sampled it.

Dolphin meat is dense and such a dark shade of red as to appear black. There have been human health concerns associated with the consumption of dolphin meat in Japan after tests showed that dolphin meat contained high levels of mercury.

That’s what dolphins are all about in a nutshell. There is much more science and data gathered regarding those sea mammals.

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers have met 109 times in the playoffs, which team has won the most games?

Answer
The Celtics are 62-47 against Philadelphia in the playoffs. However, they are 15-43 when playing in Boston.