September, 2009

December, 2008

Comments from
Jim Dickie– VICE PRESIDENT

It is December and most of the snowmobile trails are open. Some trails that cross private property may still be gated and closed till December 15th because land owners want to use their property for black powder deer hunting and don’t want sleds interfering with the hunt. PLEASE respect the land owners’ wishes. Also, when riding please stay on the trails and off private property. Trespassing on private property only makes snowmobilers look bad in the eyes of the land owner and the public.

Senate Bills 1489 and 1490 have passed the state Senate and await House action. Many hours of negotiations took place between the DNR, MSA, Senate Members and House Members. Several good ideas were discussed, including charging out of state riders a higher fee for a trail permit and a discount to large families that have several sleds. Unfortunately, no consensus could be reached on how to implement these two ideas in a fool proof and easy manner that pleased the policy makers. Several other changes were made to the bills that made them easier to understand and more to the liking of the rule makers. MSA provided information to support the bills, but only the Senate and House members can vote on the changes made to the bills. The negotiation process is not easy and gets very delicate at times. It’s too bad that all MSA members can’t experience this process first hand as it is a real eye opener! Check out more about the bills elsewhere in this newsletter.

Several individuals have asked me what it is like being Vice President of MSA. I answer them by saying, “ It keeps me very busy”. For example, from August 22 to November 19 I have represented MSA at events or snowmobile related shows every weekend except two. I have also spent 18 week days going to meetings or getting ready for MSA events or other snowmobile related shows. This does not include time spent answering emails, phone conversations, or writing letters. As you can see anyone in this position must be able to devote a lot of time to snowmobiling. If I were working full time, I couldn’t do justice to the position. Since snowmobiling is my passion, I don’t mind donating my time and it makes retired life more interesting.

I attended a meeting with the Michigan Railroads Association last week. The association has a special group working to educate other groups and individuals about train safety. One of their concerns is snowmobiles crossing railroad tracks in locations that ARE NOT a designated crossing and another concern was snowmobiles being ridden down the tracks. In both cases the snow gets packed hard and could cause a train derailment let alone a snowmobiler being hit by a train. The main point here is to let the rider beware as the railroad companies WILL BE CONDUCTING sting operations along their tracks this winter. Anyone caught riding on the tracks or crossing them at any point other than a designated crossing will be ticketed. The violator will also be considered trespassing on railroad property. Ride smart and safe and avoid the unnecessary costs associated with violations.

Enjoy the winter and have fun snowmobiling in Michigan’s winter wonderland!

August, 2008

Strategic Planning Update
Jim Dickie– VICE PRESIDENT

The two MSA strategic planning meetings that were held this spring were very fruitful. They yielded many good ideas and specific concerns. Below is a summary of what has taken place since the meetings.

First you need to know the definition of a few terms used in the snowmobile program and used in this summary.

Grant Sponsor-- A grant sponsor is a snowmobile club or other non-profit group that applies for cost reimbursement for maintaining and grooming the snowmobile trails. The club must apply for the money and agree to the terms and conditions listed in the "Recreational and Snowmobile Trail Grant Handbook" that is developed by the DNR. It is the grant sponsors that do all the field work to give the snowmobiler a smooth trail to ride.

Snowmobile Trail Improvement Fund-- This is the fund into which money from the sale of trail permits that riders purchase goes. Additional money is added to the fund from a small portion of the Michigan gas tax and $5 from each snowmobile registration. From this fund the DNR administers the money (called grants) to the 68 "grant sponsors" to maintain and groom the trails. No general tax dollars go into this fund. Snowmobilers support the sport almost 100%.

Snowmobile Advisory Committee-- This is a committee of seven appointed by the Chief of the DNR to advise the DNR about the snowmobile program. It also resolves issues of conflict between the snowmobile community and the DNR. Committee members represent one from business, one from the Grant Sponsors, one from each region of the state to represent MSA and two representing snowmobiling interests at large. The committee meets 3 to 6 times a year.

    Now that you understand some of the terms we deal with everyday, you'll better understand the updates listed below.

DNR Accountability--In the 2007-2008 Snowmobile Trail Grant Handbook the DNR budgeted 28% of the fund for administering the program. We (MSA officers and Executive Director) questioned the DNR about this cost. We also brought it to the attention of a few key state representatives and senators. As a result the 2008-2009 proposed budget for administering the fund has been reduced to 15%. This is a 55% reduction! This reduction adds more than a million dollars that will go towards trail maintenance, equipment and grooming this year.

Recreational and Snowmobile Trail Handbook-- Prior to snowfall last season the grant sponsors had 16 different issues with the requirements in the handbook. It took up until the first snowfall to get them all resolved. As of right now there is only one issue to be resolved for this upcoming season. This issue deals with the cost of major groomer expenses such as engine or transmission repairs or replacement. The DNR says that the grant sponsor must pay the first $1000 and 25% of the remaining cost. The value of the grant sponsor's labor is NOT counted within the 25%. Many of the grant sponsors have told us that they can't afford any large expense.  This issue is being addressed by the MSA through the Snowmobile Advisory                                                   Committee.

Communications to MSA members-- This "E-Blast" is the first step in better communications to keep our members updated on MSA activities and other important snowmobile issues. The MSA magazine is being redesigned with a new updated cover and more room for snowmobile stories and club news. There will be less editorial comment with the elimination of the vice president's comments. We need more snowmobile club news along with snowmobile stories submitted by individuals and groups. Please submit stories or ideas for stories to the MSA office. WE NEED YOUR HELP to make the magazine better. The January and February editions of the magazine will be combined as a Jan./Feb. edition. The main reason for this change is to reduce our costs.

Web Page Updates To Increase Membership--The web page is in the process of being updated. The following features will be added.

·         There will be an area for all 68 grant sponsors to directly post up to date trail reports.

·         Commercial advertising will be available to purchase on the web page.

·         A better "calendar of events" will be available for clubs and MSA members to post upcoming events.

·         A list of commercial MSA members will be posted so you will know who supports MSA and snowmobiling.  Please support these businesses.

·         A family oriented interactive bulletin board will be added with many different sections. Individuals will be able to ask MSA questions, express their concerns, report stolen sleds and trailers, plus discuss other snowmobile related issues.

·         A list of frequently asked questions with answers will be posted and updated often.

 Parts of the bulletin board will be available to MSA members only. The board will be monitored by MSA member Paul Anderson and a few of his MSA member friends.

A big THANK YOU to Paul and his friends in developing this bulletin board and helping with the web page additions.

March, 2008

A Good Season
Jim Dickie– VICE PRESIDENT

Another snowmobile season is drawing to a close. It has been a good snowmobile-friendly season, considerably better than the last two snowmobile seasons. With 4,000 miles of riding so far, I may still find time for another 500-1,000 miles before the snow melts. I hope each of you has enjoyed this snowmobile season as much as I have. Remember that the trails officially close March 31 unless the DNR approves an extension. Also remember that all snowmobile trails on private property are closed to all other uses because the trail easement expires at the end of the snowmobile season. That means that anyone riding an ATV, a 4-wheeler, a horse, etc. would be trespassing.

Moving Forward

Over the months ahead the snow may melt, but I can guarantee you that the MSA leadership will be thinking snowmobiling 24/7. The MSA leadership wants Michigan to be the premier snowmobile state in the U.S. There are 27 states that have snowmobile programs. Of the 27 states, Michigan is viewed by most of the other states as a leader in organized snowmobiling. We don’t want to be just viewed as “a leader.” We want to be known as having the best snowmobile program, period!

In order for this goal to be achieved, changes will be needed in the way the snowmobile program has been operated in the past. The changes need to be positive and user-friendly in nature. We have to continue to give the public a reason to want to snowmobile in Michigan. We must create a greater desire among snowmobilers to snowmobile in Michigan.  Creating that desire is called marketing. The best tool that we have to use is a well-maintained and groomed snowmobile trail system. This tool is provided to us by the volunteer members of the snowmobile clubs and other organizations (chambers of commerce, travel bureaus, etc.) that do the work to maintain, sign and groom the trails. It is very important that these groups and individuals are happy in doing what they do best, providing safe groomed trails for the public to enjoy. To keep them happy requires an ongoing partnership with state government, businesses and snowmobilers who are positive and friendly. If the clubs and organizations are happy in what they do, everyone else involved in snowmobiling will (should) be happy, too.

The core to achieving the goal of being the premier snowmobile state in the U.S. is maintaining an excellent working relationship between state government and the local snowmobile clubs and other organizations that do all the work on the ground. If these people are happy, the whole snowmobiling community will be happy. There will be excellent trails, snowmobilers will ride, businesses will benefit and more money will be spent in Michigan helping the state’s economy. It is like, “when mama is happy, everyone is happy!”  A successful partnership has the same goal. It is user friendly, communicates well, shares ideas and information and works together in harmony. This partnership will make Michigan the premier snowmobile state in the U.S.

You Can Help

MSA’s leadership, like local snowmobile clubs, is made up of volunteers with the exception of the executive director and office staff. We can always use help from our membership. If you have a special talent or have special training in computers, communications, marketing, law, banking, fundraising or any field that you think can help make MSA a better organization and are willing to volunteer your time to help make Michigan become a premier snowmobile state, contact me or the MSA office. If you have a good idea and know how to implement the idea, contact me and let’s talk. Like I said in the February issue, “We are all in this together.” Let’s work together for the benefit of MSA and for making Michigan the best snowmobiling state in the nation.

Remember ...

•           If you want to receive e-mail news and information from MSA, we need your e-mail address. Please send an e-mail to office@msasnow.org with a message to add your e-mail address to your membership file.

 •          Take a friend snowmobiling and allow them to experience the fun we all have snowmobiling.

•           Sign up a new member with MSA. We need your support. Numbers DO make a difference.

February, 2008

We Are All In It Together!
Jim Dickie– VICE PRESIDENT

Snowmobiling is more than just riding a snowmobile. According to snowmobile industry experts, snowmobiling adds over $1 billion to the Michigan economy each year. Without a groomed snowmobile trail system, that number would be considerably less.

What is the driving force behind snowmobiling in Michigan? That driving force is a partnership among snowmobile club volunteers, units of government, private businesses and snowmobilers. 

At the heart of the partnership are volunteers from snowmobile clubs or local organizations who develop a trail system in their area. Volunteers trim brush, put up signs, remove debris, grade and perform other maintenance on the trails. Where the trails cross private property, these volunteers acquire legal easements. In many cases, volunteers from other clubs and individual snowmobilers pitch in to help with trail maintenance.

Next are the volunteers who operate the groomers to try to keep the trails smooth and safe for snowmobilers. The operators are usually snowmobile club members or members of a local organization such as a village chamber of commerce.

Still other volunteers handle the paperwork involved in applying for and administering the grants they receive from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for trail maintenance and grooming. The DNR collects the money from the trail permits that we purchase and makes grants available to snowmobile clubs and other organizations to perform the trail maintenance and grooming. This year there are 69 separate snowmobile grant agreements with the DNR.

It should be noted that there are no general fund tax dollars that go into the snowmobile program. We snowmobilers pay our own way through revenue from trail permits, a small portion of the gas tax and a few dollars from snowmobile registrations. Purchasing a trail permit supports the snowmobile program that we depend on.

Another partner would be the private business owners who supply the snowmobiles, parts and accessories we purchase. In addition to them are the owners of motels, inns, restaurants, gas stations, sporting goods stores, etc., that provide the services for the snowmobiler.

As you can see, we are all in this together. We depend on each other to make snowmobiling work in Michigan.

Rough Trails?

If you encounter rough trails while snowmobiling this winter, please remember there is usually a logical reason why they are rough. Rough trails are usually a result of low snow conditions, heavy traffic, a groomer break down, not enough volunteer help or a combination of these. If you have a concern, contact the local club or grooming organization for information. I know of no grooming club or organization that takes pride in rough trails. There is always a logical explanation.

MSA Ride In This Month

Sign up for the MSA Ride In scheduled for Feb. 15-17 at the Kewadin Casino in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. It is a snowmobile celebration where you meet new friends and snowmobile together according to your skill level or interests. There will be some major announcements made at the Ride In about MSA’s goals and future direction. Be there and be the first to know!

Communication

MSA will be using some form of electronic “newsletter” and “action alert” system in the near future to communicate faster with our members. It will be used for communicating factual data, up coming events and other information to keep our membership knowledgeable about the FACTS of snowmobiling.

After looking at our member list, we noticed that very few members have provided us with their e-mail address. If you want to receive this type of information to keep you “in the know,” then e-mail the MSA office at office@msasnow.org stating that you want your e-mail address added to your membership file. Your address will ONLY be used by MSA to communicate with you. This new system will NOT replace the MSA Magazine, but will be used in addition to the magazine.

January 1, 2008

Let Me Introduce Myself
Jim Dickie– VICE PRESIDENT
 

I first want to thank the members of MSA for electing me vice president for 2008. I feel honored to serve such a great group of people. I’ll do my best to assist President Don Reed and the rest of the Executive Board and Executive Committee in leading MSA into the future.

A Little About the Guy You Elected

I grew up on a dairy farm in northern Lapeer County just a few miles from the small farming community of Fostoria, Mich. It was there that I had my first encounter with a “snow machine.” It was a bright and sunny, cold Saturday afternoon in January when I heard a loud buzzing noise coming from the field in back of our barn. The noise seemed to move in many different directions as I tried to track it by listening to the various resonances it made. There was a good 18 inches of snow on the ground with many drifts along the north-south fence lines.

 Soon the buzzing noise got closer, and finally from around the back side of the barn, I could see someone riding something along the fence line — blasting through the drifts as the snow flew in all directions. The “something” kept getting closer and finally ended up in our yard. It was our neighbor on his new 1966 Johnson-Skee Horse Snowmobile. We talked for a few minutes and then off he went again, crossing the hay fields heading for our woods and creek located on the back eighty.

 From that moment on, my life was changed. I knew I had to have one of those snow machines, so that I could have fun in the wintertime playing in the snow. However, at the same time, I was a little upset with my neighbor as he had not asked for permission to ride on our property and, most importantly, he had not asked me if I wanted to go for a ride! The only time that I had gone riding across a field covered with 18 inches of snow was on a tractor with no cab while spreading manure after the daily barn cleaning. (I learned very fast that you always spread manure traveling against the wind.) I always got back to the barn almost frozen from the cold winter wind blowing against my body at a brisk pace. Could riding a snowmobile be just as cold?

My next snowmobile encounter was when I was in college at Western Michigan University during the blizzard of 1968 — or was it 1967? Anyway, the university shut down due to the storm on a Wednesday afternoon and didn’t reopen until the following Monday. My roommate at the time was a guy named Bill Johnson, and he had a new Ski-Doo Olympique snowmobile. I think it was 18 horsepower. He and I did manage to go for a ride or two around campus over the next few days. It was so much fun — I was hooked!

Finally, after graduating from WMU in 1970, getting married and starting a new job with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, I had the resources to buy my first new snowmobile — a 1971 Ski-Doo TNT 640 with slide suspension. I was in heaven! Bill Johnson, I, and some friends went to Houghton Lake every year for Tip-Up Town to ride our sleds. However, when gas got to be 75 cents a gallon (Wow!) in the mid-1970s and gas shortages became a reality, we gave up snowmobiling until the mid-1980s.

 At that time I was living in Chesaning.  Bud Chamberlin, one of my Chesaning friends, kept asking me to go with him on his group’s annual snowmobile trip to the Upper Peninsula. Finally, I accepted his offer and had a wonderful time snowmobiling in the Newberry, Seney, Curtis and Munising areas. After that experience, Bud and I snowmobiled in the U.P. every year for several years. (Bud and his wife Kelly currently own and operate Chamberlin’s Ole Forest Inn in Curtis.) Eventually, my wife Kathy and I ended up buying a vacation home in Curtis. Until I went to the U.P. with Bud and friends that first time in the mid-1980s, I had never been across the Mackinaw Bridge in the winter! After all, who would want to go to the U.P. in the dead of winter on slippery roads with the prospect of getting “snowed in” in a strange new world?

As a result of these experiences, I got involved in snowmobiling and riding the wonderful groomed trails. In late 1999 and early 2000 I, along with a group of friends, organized the Chesaning Area Snowmobilers Association, and we all became MSA members. Our club helped form the MSA Adopt-A-Club program because we were not a grooming club, but wanted to get more involved helping other clubs that had trail responsibilities. I guess you might say the rest is history because I have continued to get more involved with the winter activity I love — snowmobiling.

Oh, I almost forgot, I still have my 1971 Ski-Doo 640 TNT. I have restored it as a “vintage” sled. I guess that makes me “vintage” also!

Just a Reminder

Please remember to thank all the club volunteers and groomer drivers who do their best to provide us a place to ride our sleds. Without their hard work and dedicated volunteer efforts, we all might still be home on the farm riding our sleds in circles in the farm fields. With all of us working together, MSA will continue to lead the way for snowmobiling adventures in Michigan.

Last Note

Please support those who support snowmobiling and MSA by using the Commercial Member and Club Guide located in the center of this magazine. Pull it out, carry it with you and use it as a guide when making lodging and dining reservations or when buying a sled, parts, fuel or anything else related to snowmobiling. And also tell the commercial members thanks for supporting us. See ya on the trails!

December 1, 2007

Compromise Reached
by Don Reed

If you recall in the last issue, I dedicated my space to publish an article by Jim Duke. In that article, Jim discussed ongoing issues that have become detrimental to our snowmobiling program; specifically, the grooming of our trails and funding for the grant sponsors. It has been a long struggle this year, but with the help of Keith Charters and Frank Wheatlake from the Natural Resource Commission (NRC), I believe we have reached a comprise we can live with.

It’s not a secret that the relationship between the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and grant sponsors has gone from a functioning system to a dysfunctional nightmare. We have fallen astray from our goal. The Snowmobile Advisory Committee (SAC) was formed by the state to act as a liaison providing feedback to the DNR; however, the DNR is not utilizing the committee to its fullest potential. They have become more concerned with the bureaucracies of the snowmobiling program, rather than working with grant sponsors to find a palatable solution to satisfy both parties. Since grant sponsors are not up on legal jargon, they rely heavily on the SAC committee and MSA to represent their best interests. In turn, MSA relies heavily on their partnership with DNR to establish a user-friendly Grant Handbook — needed to administer the snowmobile program. You can see how a breakdown in relationships on any level, especially this one, can have a catastrophic effect.

Customer Services the Key

When administrating a program that directly affects the end user, you have to realize that customer service is the key to a successful program. It is vital. Grant sponsors are one of the customers (for some reason) who have not been recognized. To manage a program properly with customers at the forefront, being customer-service oriented would be the most reasonable plan of action. These are simple quality management techniques that have been forgotten by the DNR at the expense of grant sponsors; grant sponsors who are volunteers and are ultimately responsible for the implementation of the program.

Trail grooming is absolutely essential to the sustainability of a more than billion dollar industry. Without groomed trails, you will find a substantial decrease in the profits made by this winter activity. Snowmobilers expect well groomed, safe trails. While ungroomed trails would not stop some enthusiasts from snowmobiling, ungroomed trails would entice others to find different venues for their family activities, resulting in a vast decrease in annual revenue. Thousands of jobs and businesses are directly affected by the revenue brought in by snowmobilers each year.

We need to put our egos behind us and work, once again, as a team. The program is not flawless, but with the cooperation of the DNR, we must work toward making the program a good fit for everyone involved. We all have the same common interest; to maintain the safe trails and to continue our family tradition of snowmobiling in the great state of Michigan. Get-R-Done and Keep the Track Side Down!

November 1, 2007

Are Groomed Trails a Thing of the Past?
by Don Reed

  I recently read a draft of an article that Jim Duke wrote. He has extensive knowledge of organized snow-mobiling. Jim has been in on it from the ground floor — when the Michigan Snowmobile Association (MSA) was in its first stages. He has served as president of MSA, president of the American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA), sat on the Groomer Handbook committee and is currently a member of the Snowmobile Advisory Committee (SAC).

The entire time I was reading his article, it was as though he was inside my head, writing everything I was thinking and trying to put down on paper. I spoke with Jim and asked if I could use his words.
I dedicate my space this month to the eloquently written words of Jim Duke.

Are Groomed Trails
a Thing of the Past?

by Jim Duke

  It would seem that things have gone from bad to worse over the past few years, as the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) suffers employment shortages and woes with hiring freezes. As the governor makes feeble attempts at balancing the state budget while trying to appease those who elected her to office, the state economy slips deeper and deeper into financial despair and the citizens of our great state are expected to dig deeper into their pockets to bail it out again.

What’s more disturbing is the attitude of many state employees that things are better now than they were under the previous administration. Debatable as this may be, I beg to differ! Recreational programs have repeatedly taken up the slack in the tourism shortfalls by becoming almost 100 percent user-pay. These programs create incentives to entice visitors to come to Michigan and enjoy what is offered by those programs — whether it be boating and fishing, golf, hunting or the winter sports of skiing and snowmobiling. It seems, however, that no matter how much the enthusiasts strive to make their particular activity better, it is never enough to satisfy those who think they know best.

For years the organized snowmobiling community has pleaded with the Michigan tourism industry to support our winter activities, pointing out that snowmobiling is now second only to golf as the state’s most attractive tourism tool. The tourism industry has yet (to the best of my knowledge) to invest a single dollar into snowmobiling enhancements. Until recently, the tourism industry wouldn’t even consider placing a snowmobile on the cover of their brochure. Snowmobile enthusiasts have rolled with the punches and continue to provide a quality trail system throughout the state. We’ve agreed to permit increases in order to adequately fund trail grooming and maintenance and periodic replacement of grooming equipment.

Expected to
Do More for Less

Meanwhile, the DNR has divested itself of any grooming responsibility whatsoever. Our grooming entities are expected to take on the extra mileage and added headaches; with little more than thanks for doing so. In cases where a sponsor has hesitated to accept the additional burden, communications which sound very much like threats of trail closures have been aired. Imagine what it would be like with segments of our trail system ungroomed for the entire season or closed due to no one being available for brushing, signing and preseason preparation.

In efforts to make the system work more efficiently and provide relief for the grant sponsors, the state association (MSA) and advisory committee (SAC) has continuously requested revision of the Grant Handbook. Work groups have been established and input garnered from many of the sponsors themselves. With everything tabulated and information in the hands of the program managers at the DNR, one would assume that we were on the right track ... right? Well, you better think again!

A Revision With
No Revisions?

When the first draft of the “revised Handbook” was presented to SAC members, not one deletion that was requested could be found. In fact, not only did the revision look identical to the earlier model, now there were additional objectionable issues to be worked on. After two more trips to Lansing to meet with the DNR players and multiple revisions to the “revised” copy submitted, there still have been very few changes to benefit the sponsors. We seem to be getting nowhere. All in all, it appears that we are very close to seeing groomed trails become a thing of the past.

As this goes to print, the majority of grant sponsors are very dissatisfied with the program in providing adequate compensation in return of labors and sacrifices. Approximately half of the 64 sponsors have expressed intent to refuse signing of the grant contracts. Should this happen, we may be riding on ungroomed trails this season. This will be disastrous to the winter economy for those who so desperately depend on it.

The chairman of the Natural Resources Commission has expressed concern and has issued an order to get these issues resolved. This directive appears to have fallen on deaf ears. Rest assured MSA is doing everything in its power to keep the trails open and groomed. We want to provide all snowmobilers with the premier trail conditions they have come to expect. In the opinion of most of the snowmobilers I have queried about this subject, the snowmobile program has been going downhill for several years now — since the days when decisions rested with Hector and Dan alone — the days when the DNR worked well with the snowmobiling community. Rock bottom is a hard place to be, and it seems like we’re pretty close to that now.

There has to be some give and take between all parties involved, but the DNR is only taking and refuses to give. Maybe it’s time to take a step back in time, to when the program was actually for snowmobilers and less for the inflated egos of the DNR! The future of our groomed trail system depends on it.

That pretty much says it all. We are still waiting for the final outcome. There are plenty of snowmobilers out there who don’t understand what goes on behind the scenes. We need to educate them. Please get out there and do just that — get them involved and recruit them as members.

Will the real Jim Duke please stand up? Get-R-Done!

October 1, 2007

MSA Needs Your Help!
by Don Reed

I'am totally convinced that the people in Lansing running our grooming program either don’t understand the grooming process at all or are only interested in how the program works for them. I have tried to keep my personal opinions out of this in interest of progress, but I believe you have a right to know what we are up against and what your membership monies are funding.

Roughly two years ago, MSA and Snowmobile Advisory Committee (SAC) members sat across the table from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) officials to form the Grant Handbook Work Group. We held monthly meetings to discuss changes that would enhance the grooming grant program, making it more user-friendly. These meetings seemed to be progressing nicely, and we thought we had the DNR’s ear; at least they gave us that impression. When the 2006-07 Groomer Handbook came out, some of the issues we discussed were still not addressed.  The DNR’s response to this was that the decision is ultimately theirs. 

Major Issues Not Being Addressed

Back to the drawing board, we continued the meetings and input, trying to work things out for the 2007-08 season. We worked at hammering our points home, hoping to make a difference. However, major issues haven’t been addressed, and they have added new requirements that are not reasonable and/or acceptable.

Here is a timeline that I hope shows you what we are dealing with. I think it will give you a better understanding of what’s going on.

Feb. 6, 2007: A SAC meeting was held where the committee alerted the DNR regarding changes that needed to be made in the 2007-08 Handbook.

April 10: The SAC meeting was canceled by the DNR due to the budget. (What budget are they referring to? Their time spent on snowmobiling is funded by the snowmobile program.)

April 11: SAC began collecting Grant Handbook issues from grant sponsors for submission to DNR.

May 2: We held a 3 ½ hour conference call with DNR, SAC members, MSA President Ken Scott, and myself regarding requested changes to the Grant Handbook. We all thought issues had been worked out.

June 6: The 2007-08 Grant Handbook was distributed to SAC and our grant sponsors. The Handbook didn’t reflect all the changes we discussed and included new changes we were unaware of.

June 12: Many grant sponsors at the SAC meeting voiced their displeasure with the Handbook and told the DNR that they would not sign the upcoming grant. SAC offered to compile the different issues and work with the DNR to resolve them.

June 27: All SAC members met with Lynn Boyd, Jim Radabaugh, Steve Debrabander, Richard Kennedy, Steve Kubisiak, Jim Woods, Christy Bayus, Laura Harrison and Tomia Stevens (the DNR and DNR grant Division) in work session number one to discuss the issues with the new Grant Handbook.

July 12: All SAC members met for meeting number two with the following DNR officials: Jim Radabaugh, Steve Debrabander, Richard Kennedy, Steve Kubisiak, Jim Woods, Christy Bayus, Laura Harrison, Tom Reichard, and Joe Taylor. Mediation continues.

July 30: A conference call was held with Jim Radabaugh and Joe Taylor to discuss the bid opening process (one issue with the new Handbook). A successful conclusion was accomplished on that issue.

Aug. 6-30: The DNR and SAC members exchanged several e-mails hoping to finalize the changes approved by the DNR.

Aug. 30: MSA Executive Director Bill Manson received an e-mail from Steve Debrabander saying grant sponsors
will receive an addendum to the 2008 Snowmobile Grant Handbook during the first week of September. Bill had previously inquired about the issuing of an addendum and whether it would be
out in time for the first grant sponsor meeting on Sept. 11. The next step is for grant sponsors to decide if they can live with it or not.

Volunteers Work to Get Things Done

Remember, grant sponsors are made up mostly of volunteers who are snowmobile enthusiasts or business owners who cater to snowmobiling activities; volunteers who might have other jobs and not the time nor status in the bureaucratic world to address these issues.

 MSA was formed 25 years ago to do just that. I have given you a small example here of the time and energy spent to protect our interests. While MSA has a minimal paid staff and a lot of volunteers, its budget comes solely from membership dues and fundraisers. Therefore, I am imploring you to recruit new members. Anyone who rides trails should be a member of a local club and MSA. All businesses that benefit from snowmobiling should be MSA members. If you frequent a business that doesn’t proudly display its membership, I challenge you to ask them why not. Make copies of the membership form in this magazine and pass it out to your friends. We need your Help!

See the MSA membership form on PAGE 29. e

September 1, 2007

Easter Egg Hunt
by Don Reed

Last year’s short season ended with a surprisingly welcome storm during Easter break. We woke up daily to fresh powder that just kept coming down. Around 4-feet of snow accumulated over a week’s period in our area; with drifts 5- and 6-feet deep. Snowmobile season was officially over, but Mother Nature had other ideas and we liked it!

The first morning, with 2 feet on the ground, 3- to 4-feet drifts, and the snow still blowing; visibility wasn’t the best but we were itching to enjoy our Easter treat. Our snowmobile gear was still hanging in the back room, and we were quickly suited up and raring to go. There were five of us: myself, my wife Diane, our neighbor Frank, and a couple of friends who came north as soon as they heard snowstorm.

We headed north to Grand Marais to see how much snow they had got there. It was slow going. With the throttle down, we managed top speeds of 35 mph, as the tracks spun in all that powder. We literally plowed snow all the way there. It was still snowing and the drifts we broke through instantly burst into clouds, engulfing us. It was thrilling and exhilarating and not a good time to discover that our heated shields didn’t work. What is normally a two-hour ride took three and a half hours — with stops every 15 minutes to clean powder and ice from our windshields and helmets.

More Like Christmas

The snow gods were looking out for us. We found a gas station and restaurant open. When we stopped for gas, we asked how many riders had stopped in that day. The attendant, pointing at us, counted “one, two, three, four, five … you’re it!” We proceeded to the restaurant to have lunch and dry out, since we were soaked from the powder. With our stockings hung by the fireplace with care, along with our gloves and snow pants, the scene looked more like Christmas than Easter.

The return trip was a little quicker because we had packed down the trail a bit, but the next morning there was more fresh powder to tackle. The groomers were parked for the summer, but as people flocked to our area they were recalled to action ensuring safe trails. It continued to snow … and snow … and snow, so everyone got to experience waking up each morning to fresh powder and lots of drifting conditions, a totally new experience for some. Most everyone enjoyed the challenge and fun in the powder.

On Easter Sunday, as the children donned their hats, mittens, and snow pants to hunt for their eggs, we donned our gear and went for a holiday ride. I always wondered if the tradition of coloring Easter eggs started in the U.P., so kids could find them in the snow! All in all, we enjoyed 10 extra days of fantastic snow conditions in April. How many people can actually say they rode their snowmobile on Easter Sunday — only in da U.P., eh? It was truly a Kodak memory. See you when the snow flies! Let’s hope Christmas snowfall will top Easter’s this year. Keep the trackside down!

February 1, 2007

Snow Addiction
by Don Reed

 As I sit here writing February’s article in January, I am unable to find any negative comments from snowmobilers out on the trails. However, I have spoken with several groomer operators who have all expressed the same complaint, “Where’s the Snow?” The more snow the better is the general opinion of most riders. Some are willing to ride on just about anything, but I haven’t met anyone so far who was willing to deal with this. In our already economically depressed state, businesses that depend on winter tourism are really hurting. But I am sure everyone is aware of this, so I won’t dwell.

 I spent 20 years of my life in the military where camaraderie was the way of life. Talk to anyone who has served and they will all say the same thing; camaraderie is the thing you miss the most. Well, I found my niche again with MSA and snowmobiling. That realization comes forward as I stare out the window waiting for snow. It’s not just the ride anymore. It’s the friends I have made from out of town, down state and even out of state. It’s the regular customers who look forward to a guided boon dockin’ ride. It’s teasing our neighbor Frank about snowmobiling being his retirement job because he rides six days a week. It’s helping a stranger fix his sled when he is broke down — so he can safely get back to his motel. It’s talking to the hundreds of people who call to get an honest trail report. It’s stopping on the trail and talking to riders about their new sled or talking to the groomer operators. It’s helping out a first-time rider with proper attire or directions. Yes, this snow addict is going through withdrawals and it isn’t just the snow I miss.

 Honoring Our Veterans

 I have found a way to combine two things that are very important to me. On the second Saturday of March, we co-sponsor an annual Veterans Ride with the Seney Snowmobile Association. Nobody associated with this event profits from it financially. It is a day to honor vets and they ride FREE. We start the day at the flag pole with a short ceremony recognizing all the branches of service and all the veterans in attendance. Then we divide up into small groups and head for the trails. Each group is guided on a different route, meeting out in the woods for lunch.

 After a short break, everyone heads out in different directions again. Most of the ride is off the trail on two-tracks where you experience awesome snow conditions and a beautiful view. By 5 p.m., we return for a campfire and pig roast. Everyone mingles and gets to know one another during the day but around the campfire is where you can sit back and hear the veterans share their stories. As the evening breaks, you witness people going up to the vets, shaking their hands and saying thanks. That’s what it is all about.

 Last year we had over 100 riders, half of whom were veterans. Everyone had a great time and the vets were truly thankful. We would like to reach out to more people each year. My wife does all the organizing and insists that it is easier when knowing the numbers to plan for, so sign up for this awesome event now by calling (906) 499-3332 or sending us an e-mail at foxmotel@jamadots.com and Keep the Track Side Down.

Get-R-Done
by Don Reed

January 8, 2007 

Winter Wonderland 

New issues always surface with progress and MSA has been there from the beginning to help solve them. 

Last month, I said our current mission was to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable and safe ride. What a perfect reason to start clocking off those miles. I’ll be riding to different areas checking out the trails and grooming efforts. I’ll be talking to operators, clubs and riders to see if we can help address issues that might need fixing while collecting ideas that have proven effective and other clubs might benefit from. Of course I’ll be attempting to beat the 4,300 miles I rode last year. Yah, ah, that’s my story and I ‘m sticking to it. 

As a business owner, I can see the trend of snowmobiling coming full circle. It is once again becoming a social activity. Manufacturers continue to improve the comforts of riding with better shocks, warm hands, communication, drags and groomers designed for specific terrains enticing couples, families, and groups to gather together for the camaraderie of the snowmobiling experience.  

New issues always surface with progress and MSA has been there from the beginning to help solve them. Whereas destinations were once limited, our Michigan trail system has grown to over 6,000 miles, laying a path for tourists to explore many parts of this Winter Wonderland. As the engine sizes grew, organized races were sponsored and a Zero Tolerance program was instituted. When grooming efforts exceeded the states capability, volunteer clubs took on the responsibilities. Safety driving courses were developed for the youth and educational media for the public. 

Snowmobiling Is Big Business

 All of this progress has stimulated Michigan’s economy in many arenas. The bi-product of snowmobiling has become big business and kept many small businesses lucrative in the troubled economy our state is currently experiencing. MSA is needed more now than ever to keep our government informed and educated. Did you know that MSA is at the forefront of organized snowmobiling in the United States? We’ll continue to strive for a permanent trail system so our efforts can focus on growing instead of fighting to keep what we have each year.  

The quantity of riders per mile of trail has a dramatic affect on the riding conditions. This becomes apparent when the snow is isolated in specific areas. For example: I live in one of the Snow Belts in the U.P. When there is only snow in the U.P. Snow Belt areas, our groomer operators have counted over 1,000 sleds passing in less than two hours. We can groom twice a day during these times and still have trouble keeping up with the moguls and corners. When there is snow in the rest of the U.P. and the Lower Peninsula, the sleds disperse making the trails easier to maintain and consequently safer.  

Here’s some food for thought: It amazes me how people will pay hundreds even thousands of dollars for a sled with a better suspension system to improve their ride but balk at paying a few dollars more for a trail user fee that finances the grooming efforts to the same end. 

If you are seeking some snowmobiling camaraderie or looking for a new experience, come join us at the MSA Ride In schedule on Feb. 16-18 at the Kewadin Casino in Sault Ste. Marie.

Get-R-Done, but Keep the Track Side Down!

Something as simple as your vote can help support our efforts.

 When I volunteered to represent Michigan snowmobilers as vice president, I understood some of the politics involved, as I was also serving in the political arena in my township. We are not politicians or bureaucrats but volunteers who continue to lobby for a self-sufficient recreation that has become an economic engine for our state. Because of our volunteer status, the weight of our voice is determined by the strength of our membership.

 As lobbyists we can accomplish much more when we have a sympathetic ear. So if your participation in snowmobiling is limited to “the ride,” then I urge you to educate yourself on the political agendas of your candidates. Something as simple as your vote can help support our efforts.

 Local clubs, councils and MSA continue to work as a team to not just maintain, but improve our trail system. Snowmobiling has become big business. Manufacturers’ marketing has escalated snowmobiling, which was once a method of transportation for trapping and ice fishing, to a weekend retreat for the family. Snowmobiling is growing faster than the bureaucrats can keep up and that is where we come in. The politicians must get tired of seeing our continually changing faces, but we will continue to be there pushing; pushing to keep our trails safe and to expand with this ever-growing recreation.

 Snowmobiling’s Economic Impact

 Thirty years ago, no one could have imagined the economic impact snowmobiling would have here in Michigan. Motels, restaurants, grocery stores, repair shops, party stores and other businesses, that years ago were closed for the season, now thrive on this winter activity. Michigan can now boast that winter tourism provides lucrative opportunities to small business owners.

 MSA’s presence and input at Department of Natural Resources (DNR) meetings has made a huge impact on the money management of the grooming process and equipment. However, our current trail system in many areas is congested, making the trails difficult to maintain and negatively impacting safety. We continue to pursue the expansion and permanence of our trail system. Sometimes it feels like we are talking to a brick wall. We have to continue to grow. If we don’t, our trail system will have a major impact on economics in the reverse; for congested, unsafe trails will discourage growth. This will impact jobs. In an election year this is a major issue for candidates and a chance for us to make a difference.

 As my first term as vice president winds down, the need to represent and lobby for snowmobiling continues to rise. My Get-R-Done advice today is
 GET OUT AND VOTE!       Keep the track side down!

Snowmobilers Just Want To Have Fun - MSA Camp Out 2009

Dozens of snowmobilers took time out of their busy summers to have a little fun at this year’s MSA Camp Out, held June 26-27 at the Woodlands on the Lake RV Resort in White Cloud. This popular MSA tradition provides something for everyone, including great food and fun for the entire family. Saturday featured a golf outing, kids’ games, a water-balloon fight and a dunk tank featuring MSA officers on the hot seat (or wet seat as was the case). Laughs could be heard echoing throughout the resort, as time after time officers sunk to the bottom of the tank. The resort offered a pool, lakes, a game room and a host of other recreational amenities. Trying to keep it simple and relaxing for everyone, organizers planned two potluck dinners — with the Twork family (Andy, Rose and Mary Ann) cooking up Chicken for Friday dinner and members of the Seney Snowmobile Association, Tommy, Don and Dan cooked a pig for  Saturday night dinner. There were bonfires and tales from last season’s rides shared with fellow MSA members.

Make plans now to attend next year’s MSA Camp out. Mark June 25, 26, 27, 2010 on your calendar. Look to future editions of the Michigan Snowmobile News for details!

Seney Veterans Ride a Huge Success
The Seney Snowmobile Association Veterans Ride continues to grow each year. With 191 participants this year, the association boasts that we have the largest organized Veterans snowmobile ride in the US. Operation Camaraderie was exactly that. There were veterans from WWII, Korea, Viet Nam, Iraq 1&2 and Afghanistan whose riding ability ranged from the very experienced to the novice; some were veterans and others here to share a day with a vet. After a brief recognition ceremony, the veterans were divided into 6 guided groups of different riding abilities. The local club members acting as guides took them through the majestic back country trails that were specially prepared for riding for this event covering 80 to 120 miles. Views of the Fox River and riding thru the Danaher Plains were just a couple of scenic sites on the ride. A hot lunch was served at the Eagles Nest cabin located at the head waters of the Tahquamenon River. A pig roast and bonfire at the groomer barn was the perfect social setting to round off the event. It was a day of fun, mingling, respect, war stories, and thanks to all veterans for their contribution to the freedom we value so highly and continue to fight for.

Diane Reed spent many hours at grave sites on the honor guard in the Air Force remembering those who have served. That is really how our event came about. When Don and Diane retired, they wanted to do something to give people a chance to thank and honor the veterans in a positive environment. The first year they tried this in 2005, with only a few weeks of advertising, they had a tremendous response. Seney Snowmobile Association came on board and with a few friends they started a tradition. The Michigan Snowmobile Association also supports this ride. Each year as it continues to grow; it takes more volunteers to run a smooth event. We had 31 volunteers and multiple sponsors this year contributing to the success of the event. A special Hoora goes out to them.
http://www.foxrivermotel.com/     and       http://www.seneysnowmobiling.com

International Snowmobile Congress
Another important annual event in which MSA delegates participate is the International Snowmobile Congress. In early June of each year, organized snowmobile groups from the United States, Canada, Sweden, and other European countries come together to discuss issues of common concern and present recommendations of common interest to snowmobilers world-wide. Bids to host this event are presented three years in advance, and the planning committee charged with site selection then has the difficult task of determining what country, state or province, and city will receive the honor. The 2009 Congress will be begin on Wednesday 10 June in the Canadian Province of Prince Edward Island in the village of Summerside. Several international organizations such as the International Association of Snowmobile Administrators, the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association, the International Tourism & Media groups, and the International Snowmobile Council, will join such national groups as the American Council of Snowmobile Associations, Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations, the Federation of Snowmobile Organizations of Sweden, and many snowmobile groups from Russia and other European countries interested in the popular recreational activity of motorized snow travel.. Michigan snowmobilers have long been participants at this function and are recognized as leaders in resolving snowmobiling issues of an international nature.

Snowmobilers Visit the Nation's Capital

Around the middle of April, seven delegates representing the Michigan Snowmobile Association traveled to Washington, DC to attend the scheduled meetings of the American Council of Snowmobile Association. While there they also met with officials of the National Forest Service, the Federal Highway Administration, and the American Recreation Coalition. Michigan delegates were joined by enthusiasts from 20 other snow-belt states at this annual event and created quite a visible presence in, and around, the capital buildings. Meetings with these important agency and organization leaders are essential to understanding and respecting the partnerships that are in place..  

The primary purpose for the visit, however, was to carry concerns of Michigan Snowmobilers to the federal legislators pertaining to continued access to public lands under state and federal control, to dispel the myths being spread by the radical, anti-motorized, environmentalist groups, and to provide important factual information about snowmobiling activities. These delegates were received very well by all congressional offices visited, and in several cases, the Senators & Congressmen & women took time from their busy schedules to meet personally and discuss such issues as the economic impact snowmobiling has on the state's winter tourism, small business survival due to snowmobiling activities, and what can be done to guarantee a successful future for this very popular winter pastime. Also discussed was the reauthorization of the federal gas tax in the Recreational Trails Program, and the HIPPA legislation that allows some insurance carriers to refuse coverage to certain users, like horseback riding, bike riding, motorcycles, and snowmobiling.

The latest "buzz-word" circulating throughout the congressional halls is CLIMATE CHANGE!  This is on every legislators agenda, and the government is going to do something about it at everybody’s expense. Anybody that may use any kind of motorized transportation will be affected. Given to opportunity to discuss this topic as well as recreational access and the need to halt proposals for designating more wilderness areas, all delegates felt the trip to Washington was well worth the time and expense, and returned home secure in the knowledge that Michigan lawmakers have the interests of snowmobilers in mind as they go about their daily routines.

Important Survey:
The Future of  Michigan's Natural Resources

Please take a few minutes to complete the quick survey linked below for an important research project concerning Michigan’s natural resources.  Your opinions are extremely important.  Please be completely honest, your responses are totally anonymous.  

http://www.zplink.com/dnr1

Michigan Republicans Take to the Trails! A group of Michigan Republican legislators hit the trails in support of winter tourism with a four-day snowmobile trip around Northern and Upper Michigan. The annual Republican legislative ride provides lawmakers with a first-hand look at the positive economic effect created by winter tourism while spotlighting snowmobiling specifically as providing a more than $1 billion impact on the Michigan’s economy. State Senator Jason Allen, R-Traverse City, and Reps. Kevin Elsenheimer, R-Bellaire, Rep. Wayne Schmidt, R-Traverse City, Rep. Goeff Hansen, R-Hart and Rep. Jim Stamas, R-Midland along with former Speaker of the House Rick Johnson and former Rep. Tom Casperson were joined by MSA leaders and local club members on the 425-mile tour. MSA, once again coordinated the ride, at the request of Republican legislators. Each year, the Republican legislators decide which area of the state they would like to ride and MSA, along with local snowmobile clubs, coordinates the route and stops to allow the legislators the opportunity to witness the positive economic impact of snowmobiling. This year legislators decided they wanted to ride form Gaylord to Sault Ste. Marie and back using different routes. Stops were made in Topinabee, Cheboygan, Mackinaw City, St. Ignace Tout Lake, Sault Ste. Marie, Cedarville, Alanson and Pellston and Alba. The ride provided all sorts of weather conditions including a 23 degree below zero morning. Bill Lucas, of MSA, coordinated the event. He said the ride is the result of volunteers from local snowmobile clubs and chambers of commerce working together to show the legislators the importance of snowmobiling. “They were actually able to ride in a groomer out on the trails. That was an eye-opener. They rode with the Cheboygan Country Sheriff's Department, the Antrim County Sheriffs and the DNR law enforcement. They met with volunteers and groomer operators. They got a real feel for snowmobiling — conditions, the local areas and the people involved.” Sen. Allen, Commerce and Tourism Committee chair said, “Winter in Michigan is a time for snowmobile enthusiasts everywhere to enjoy the great scenery and adventure that our state has to offer. The snowmobile tour allows me to see firsthand the significant economic impact that winter tourism has on northern Michigan," During the ride, MSA members were also able to talk to the lawmakers about formulating plans for new trails, grooming the trails and winter tourism in general Legislative Ride 1 2009 Sen Allen, Rep Hansen, Rep Elsenheimer, Rep Schmidt, Rep Stamas Senator Jason Allen in the Groomer

Michigan Democrats Take to the Seat of a Sled! Members of the Michigan State House of Representatives Democratic Caucus held their annual priority-setting meeting on Jan. 29, 2009, at Garland Resort in Lewiston. While in beautiful Northern Michigan, the 67 members of the House majority were treated to some winter recreation opportunities. They had the choice of going cross country skiing or snowmobiling. Twenty-six legislators chose to enjoy a ride on a snowmobile. For many of them, it was the first time on a seat of a sled. The Lewiston Fun Ones Snowmobile Club provided a groomed trail loop right into the resort. They signed the loop, so that legislators could get the first-hand feel of riding a Michigan snowmobile trail. MSA provided snowmobiles and the all important clothing to all to make sure they all stayed warm and cozy. The Fun Ones also had one of their groomers on display at the resort. State Rep. Gary McDowell (D-Rudyard), who was instrumental in the passage of recent snowmobile legislation, explained that the meeting is a working weekend for Democrats, but the chance to enjoy a ride on a snowmobile in their spare time was welcomed by many of his colleagues. “They really did love it. For the vast majority of those who went snowmobiling, this was the first time,” said McDowell. “They were excited.” McDowell added that many of the Democrats also went into Lewiston, and got a first-hand look and feel for the economic importance of snowmobiling on northern Michigan towns like Lewiston. “We saw restaurants with snowmobiles filling the parking lots. We saw snowmobiles at gas stations, filling up their tanks. I think it was an eye-opener for some. Snowmobiling is a very important economic winter activity, and that could clearly be seen.” Legislative Ride Democratic Caucus Jan 2009 Members of the Michigan Legislature Democratic Party Rep Lahti, Rep Constan, Rep Lindberg

Easter Seals – Michigan, Inc.   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hundreds of Women Continue to Change the Lives of Children with Disabilities Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan (February 2, 2009) – The snow covered trails and the beautiful Kewadin Casinos Hotel in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan set the scene for Easter Seals – Michigan’s 22nd Annual For Women Only (FWO) Snowmobile Ride. Hundreds of women gather every year from all over the Midwest to see old friends, ride their sleds and, most importantly, raise funds to change the lives of children and adults with disabilities. This year the FWO riders raised over $72,000 for Easter Seals programs and services, such as speech therapies and P.L.A.Y. Project, an early intervention autism therapy. Over the past 21 years, this devoted group of women has raised over $2.1 million to improve the lives of those with disabilities. “Thank you to all of the riders, past and present, for making the For Women Only Snowmobile Ride a beacon of hope for children and adults with disabilities,” said John Cocciolone, President and CEO of Easter Seals – Michigan. “Last year, Easter Seals served over 8,000 individuals. We couldn’t do that without the help of these dedicated riders.” At the ride this year, each dedicated rider raised a minimum of $500. They enjoyed breakfast on Saturday, a guided snowmobile ride, lunch at a local restaurant and an afternoon of fun, relaxing and pampering activities. At the banquet, riders met Easter Seals’ 2009 Child Ambassador, Joseph Brown, and his family. Jean Sommers/Cedarville, top fundraiser this year, raised $16,710, and was awarded a new snowmobile from the manufacturer of her choice. The second place fundraiser, Laura Hires/Montague, raised $9,043.78, and received a $500 gift certificate from Choko Clothing. Easter Seals’ For Women Only Snowmobile Ride is sponsored by the Michigan Snowmobile Association, Nelsons Speed Shop, Stud Boy, Woody’s, Mark A. Young Jewelers, and Kevin Coghill Photography. The 23rd Annual For Women Only Snowmobile Ride is scheduled for January 29-31, 2010. For more information please visit www.easterseals.com/fwo or contact Libby Collins at 1.800.75.SEALS Ext. 2622, or email her at ecollins@essmichigan.org. Easter Seals – Michigan is the leading non-profit provider of services for individuals with mental illness, emotional impairments, autism, developmental disabilities and other special needs. Spanning the entire state of Michigan, Easter Seals has been offering help and hope to children and adults living with disabilities, and to the families that love them, since 1920. Through a continuum of services including therapy, training, education and support services, Easter Seals – Michigan creates life-changing solutions so that people with disabilities can live, learn, work and play in their communities. For more information, contact Easter Seals – Michigan at 1 800 75 SEALS or www.essmichigan.org.

Veterans Ride Motto: Be a Vet, Bring a Vet, and Thank a Vet The Fox River Motel and the Seney Snowmobile Association are sponsoring the 5th annual Veteran’s Ride Mar 14th. We start out the event with a recognition ceremony at the flag pole at 10:00 am. Immediately following is a guided leisure ride taking you to see some of the beautiful country the area has to offer that you wouldn’t normally see just riding the trails. You can sign up for a slow , medium, or fast ride, that will cover 60-90 miles of trails stopping in the country for a hotdog burn and returning around 5:00 to enjoy a pig roast, bonfire and some camaraderie. The cost for veterans is FREE, but you don’t have to be a vet to participate. A donation of $20 is requested from non-vets. This is an opportunity to share your day with a vet. Annual event T-shirts will be available to purchase and the cost for vets is FREE. Our Veterans snowmobile ride has become the largest in the US with 151 riders last year and we are anticipating more this year. Don’t have a snowmobile; that’s okay. We have a special rate of $100 per day. (Sleds must be reserved in advance) If you are planning to attend please call or email to sign up ASAP so we can plan for food, 906-499-3332, foxmotel@jamadots.com. We have to put the t-shirt order in by Feb 10th, so if you want a t-shirt you need to register before then.