Business news

Bangor

A year of safety

The Lane Construction Corp. recently recognized its Maine division employees for working one full year without a lost-time accident with a Brewer luncheon.

As part of the celebration, a drawing was held for a 2006 Ford F-150 XLT pickup. More than 450 Lane employees from throughout Maine were eligible for the prize, which went to Louise Philbrick of Limestone.

Organizers said that Lane Construction Corp. considers the safety of its employees and the general public to be a matter of prime importance. Even though a good safety record is essential, the ultimate goal is to provide a healthy and safe environment for employees.

The one-year safety milestone was accomplished with the help of everyone working with safety in mind at all times. The company looks forward to another year without lost-time accidents – and possibly another pickup give away.

New training center

NITRO Fitness for Men, a training center for men older than 30, is opening at 1010 Stillwater Ave.

According to its operator, Paul Bernier, NITRO is designed for baby boomers who want a small, friendly environment for 30-minute workouts to lose weight, gain energy and help eliminate back pain.

Previous centers have opened in Waterville last June and Lewiston last September.

The Bangor facility, located next to Sunrise Home & Hearth, is designed to give an effective workout in just 30 minutes two or three times a week.

NITRO fitness is a national franchise founded by Larry Bedell and Chuck Rappe of Kansas City, Mo. Both men have been in the fitness industry for more than 20 years.

New sandwich shop

The Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce took part in a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony Jan. 23 at Bubba Jack’s, 213 Ohio St. Jack Bailey and Scott Blakeway are owners of the new business. The shop sells sandwiches, five varieties of flavored wings, pizza and salad. To learn more about the business, call 942-3412.

Research assistant

Packard Judd Kaye Strategic Marketing Group recently appointed Jaime Nicole Laliberte of Bangor as research assistant. A native of Baileyville, Laliberte graduated summa cum laude from the University of Maine with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and physical education. She is pursuing a master’s degree in business administration with a marketing concentration at UM.

Business seminar

The U.S. Small Business Administration and Women, Work and Community will hold a First-Stop Business Information Seminar 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, at Acadia Hall, University College of Bangor, 355 Maine Ave.

The seminar will provide an overview of the business assistance services available for small-business owners and individuals interested in small-business ownership.

The U.S. Small Business Administration will highlight services and programs available, and federal, state and regional programs which small businesses can use to start, prosper and grow.

There is no cost for the seminar, but preregistration is necessary. To register, call Marilyn Geroux at 622-8382 or visit www.sbagov/me and click on New-First-Stop Business Information.

Money options

The Penobscot County Transition Team is offering a three-hour workshop 1-4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at the Bangor Career Center, 45 Oak St.

Presenters from USDA Rural Development, MaineStream Finance, Maine State Housing Authority, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and Bangor Savings Bank will present information and tools to avoid costly mistakes during uncertain times, including practical tips on establishing a budget and reasonable bill payment process. Participants also will learn how to discuss their financial future with a bank or financial institution and learn about options to reduce mortgage payments and refinancing.

The workshop is free. Registration is recommended by calling 561-4050.