Michigan Snowmobiler & ORV - September 2022 by MichiganSnowmobiler

In & Around the Halls of CurrentCongresslegislation - what you need to know to stay informed Michigan’s Moose Capital Newberry — Your next amazing snowmobiling adventure! Sled Warrior Jeff “JJ” Longton talks about his long career racing, retirement and how even now he is keeping his hands in the sport he loves. It’s All Left Turns From Here The PlanningI-500ongoing to the big race this year? A little pre-planning can make all the difference in your experience. What’s Inside Visit us www.michsnowmag.comat SEPTEMBER 2022 FOR HOME DELIVERY CALL 810-348-1325 Michiganmich.snow.orv.magSnowmobiler + ORV Magazine

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MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 3 Visit Our Town Ads for adventureoutdoornextyour *THIS CHANGES MONTHLY Gaylord ..................... 5 Copper Harbor ......... 8 Cadillac ..................... 9 East Jordan ....... 10-12 Grand Traverse ....... 12 Indian River 15 Elmira 15 Naubinway 18 Calumet 18 Curtis 19 Newberry 21 Paradise 22 Deer Park 22 Drummond Island 23 Marquette 23 Irons 23 Hulbert 23 Sault Ste Marie 29 Midland 29 New Lothrop 29 Manistique 31 Houghton Lake 31 Fenton .................... 39 Epoufette ................ 39 Grayling .................. 41 Seney...................... 41 Grand Marais .......... 42 Twin Lakes .............. 42 Mass City/Rousseau .. 42 Lake Gogebic ......... 43 Greenland ............... 43 White Lake .............. 45 White Pine .............. 45 What’s Inside 4 EDITOR’S LETTER 6 WHEN A PLAN COMES TOGETHER 10 EAST JORDAN: FALL FAST APPROACHING THE BREEZEWAY 14 IN & AROUND THE HALLS OF CONGRESS 20 OUR TOWN: MICHIGAN’S MOOSE CAPITAL 24 ON THE COVER: SLED WARRIORJEFF LONGTON 30 IT’S ALL LEFT TURNS FROM HERE THE I-500 35 MIRA PHOTO GALLERY 36 IT’S ALL IN THE FAMILY 40 SUMMER SNOWMOBILING ON THE COVER: Phtography by Brian Caswell SpeedShot Photography mich.snow.orv.mag. Michigan Snowmobiler + ORV Magazine. 2014 30 36 Check out all our advertisers www.michsnowmag.comonline:

VOLUME 56 - NUMBER 1 4 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV PUBLISHER | Peter Farago EDITOR | Ann Drzewiecki ADVERTISING MANAGER | Scott Drzewiecki CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR | Michelle Sheridan SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR | Chelsie Dzabanski WEB MANAGER | Kelly Kosek CONTRIBUTING WRITERS | Jim Duke, Ric Federau, Kim Kisner, Dominic Santina, Bret Wilber, Joyce Wiswell SALES | Chris Sutton, Scott Muldoon DESIGNERS | Kelly Kosek, Kaitlyn Schoen, Deborah Schultz Founded September 1967 EXECUTIVE OFFICES, ADVERTISING, EDITORIAL AND CIRCULATION OFFICES: 30600 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 105 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48434 scottd@faragoassoc.com810.348.1325www.michsnowmag.com THE MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER+ORV is an independent publication endorsing the goals of MISORVA, and other associations. Opinions expressed herein are the opinions of the editor or contributing writers, and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of the MSA, or their board of directors. Reproduction of material in whole or part is prohibited, unless authorized in writing by the publisher - all rights reserved. MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER and ORV INC., The Michigan Snowmobiler is published 10 times per year, September through February and May through August. Call or go online for your subscription today 810.348.1325 | michsnowmag.com A t Michigan Snow mobiler and ORV we are always look ing for new ways to share stories of our great state. This week our story comes for nearly next door to our own back yard. A close family friend was able to buy about 55 acres of ground with his brother. We were lucky enough to be invited over to enjoy some relaxed family time the day after the purchase. Three generations gathered in a shed while a short lightening storm passed overhead. Then we were off for a quick side by side tour of the new property. It was gorgeous. Even though it was 4 in the afternoon it felt closer to 9pm because the trees and brush were so dense. We had just enough space to get through on a really nicely maintained side by side trail that looped through the 55 acre parcel. With a little imagination it felt like we were in the Upper Peninsula not within a 60 mile drive of the Metro area.For all of our readers, take a moment and enjoy a memory of your favorite Michigan place – wherever it may be. Never take for granted our great state and all that it has to offer. This state never ceases to amaze me. It always seems to have a new se cret area of beauty tucked away just waiting to be enjoyed and cherished. In our issue this month, we have articles you won’t want to miss: Page 24 – Sled Warrior – Learn about the 40 year career of Jeff “JJ” Long ton.19 time MIRA High PointPageChampion30–It’sall Left Turns – I-500 Described from the Volunteer side! Page 40 –nextandfromoutthoughtsandberandofandevents,seeingfun!ourweSnowmobilercleSnowmobileFamilySnowmobileaboutSnowmobiling?Summer–HeartheInternationalConferencePage36–It’sallinthe–LookingforaorsportsvehiAuction?AsalwaysatMichiganandORV,hopethisissuehasreadersdreamingofWelookforwardtoeveryoneatlocalchaptermeetingsvolunteeringinsupportMichiganSnowmobilingORVs.Pleaserememtokeepourveteransfirstrespondersinyourandprayers.Pleasefeelfreetoreachtous.Welovetohearourreaders.Besafeenjoythetrailsuntilourissue. As alway, you can reach out to us at Michigan Snowmobiler publisher@michsnowmag.comat from the editor

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 5 GAYLORD sledshed@sledshed.infowww.sledshed.net 1.888.sledshed989.731.2858 2646 S. Ostego Ave. | Gaylord, MI 49735 1/4 north of I-75 Exit 279 DAILY UPS DELIVERY Sled Shed • Part • Clothing • AccessoriesOpen 6 days a week Reservations 1-800-557-2425 Welcome Snowmobilers WATERS INN “The Peaceful Alternative” • Snowmobile from your door+Lots of Trailer Parking • In Room Coffee/Microwaves/Refrigerators • Cable TV+Free WiFi Internet • Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor.com I-75 Exit 270 10565 Old US Hwy 27 S Gaylord, MI 49735 989-732-5836 Reserve a Room Online www.TheWatersInn.comat 4MICHIGANSNOWMOBILER-November,2019 “ “ DAILY UPS DELIVERY sledshed@sledshed.info www.sledshed.net OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK - CLOSED SUNDAYS 2 Storage Locations Check website for hours OPEN HOUSE - OCT. 27-28-29, 2017 DAILY UPS DELIVERY sledshed@sledshed.infowww.sledshed.net OPEN HOUSE OCTOBER 25-26-27, 2019 OPEN 6 DAYS A DAILYUPSDELIVERYWEEK sledshed@sledshed.infowww.sledshed.net OCTOBER25-26-27,2019OPENHOUSEOPEN6DAYSAWEEK GAYLORDMICHIGAN •I-75atExit282• 989-732-2431 800-684-2233 www.alpinelodgegaylord.com Indoorpool,sauna&whirlpool Fullservice restaurant&lounge HotComplimentaryBreakfast 300MilesofTrails.. Andtheride startshere •Polebarnworkshop•Sledstorageavailable7cozycottagesthatsleep2to8peopleDoortoTrailridingrightonTrail7inGaylord!•Fullkitchens•FreeWiFi•Amplepullthroughtrailerparking9603Old27South-Gaylord Nov. HEARST .qxp_HEARST 10/22/19 11:04 AM Page 4 Next To Big BreweryBuck • HeatedIndoorPool OnTrails!The • PackagesAvailable Next To Big HeatedBreweryBuck•IndoorPool On AvailablePackagesTrails!The•

Everybody loves it when the plan they were promoting comes to fruition, but frustration is a major contributor to those who had some great suggestions that may have fallen on deaf ears or may have just been considered not a viable proposal for the program. Many times I have witnessed this situation and many times I may have sided with one or the other in the selection process, depending on what the proposal might have entailed, and what the cost to the program might be. Either way, I know I will have those who will stand with me, and those who will be adamantly opposed to any suggestion I may support… that’s the way we make positive things happen and conversely, the way we prevent things that may be damaging to the program from being implemented.AlthoughI’m no longer an active member on the board of directors for the state association, many of the legislative and agency contacts I’ve become acquainted with during the several years when I was, have sought out my opinion before making a commitment to proposals brought forth for their consideration. Perhaps that’s their way of doing research, or perhaps it’s just a reason for reaching out for a friendly conversation with an old friend, and perhaps considered someone who will offer straight answers without anyIt’smotive.beensaid many times over (and proven to be true) that most positive actions are formulated and delivered, not in formal meetings, but rather in non-orchestrated social settings. Some of the most important issues that seem to plague the sport of snowmobiling have been made by individuals sitting in offices, rather than by those who have direct (boots on the ground) knowledge of what is needed and what will actually benefit the program. With this in mind, by getting those individuals who make the decisions out of their offices and onto the snowmobile trails, we can not only tell them what’s needed, but show them asOnwell.more than one occasion, plans for a snowmobile outing have been made and although some never get past the planning stage, there have been times when all parties were able to get free and enjoyed a day or two out on the trails. State associations can usually get snowmobile friendly lawmakers out by setting up a Legislative

6 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

When a Plan OrTogether….ComesNot!BYJIMDUKE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

snowmobiles, and after a brief lunch at a nearby café, we headed out for an enjoyable day of playing in the snow. Without thought of where we should go or a worry about the time, we had a wonderful adventure. We eventually ended up in Big Bay, got fuel, soft drinks, and some snacks, then were off again to seek out another less visited location. Without any plan at all in mind, we ventured west along a logging route for a mile or two, jumping an unfrozen water spot and eventually making our way out to the Triple A trail. As luck would have it, we found ourselves near Mt. Arvon, so by mutual agreement we left the main trail and visited what is reportedly Michigan’s highest point. We didn’t spend much time there due to the lateness of the day, and once back on the trail we made our way into L’Anse, found a quiet restaurant for dinner, and afterwards we fueled up the sleds again for the run back to where we had begun the adventure. We did make one more stop along the route near Michigamme at the Mt. Shasta restaurant for a warmup and a cup of hot chocolate.

Negaunee,locationmettinationsbethatpoliticswepast,partnerships.long-standingInthenottoodistantwiththeagreementwouldneithertalkormakeitpublicwewereplanningtooutandabout,des-unknown,weatanundisclosedjustwestofunloaded

On this particular outing, per agreement not to reveal my companions identity, suffice to say this person held a political position in the federal legislature, so it was always quite a treat when we were able to find time to just socialize and enjoy each other’s company, and although www.stevenscycle.com989-684-9872

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MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 7 continued on page 8 Day event and take them on a show & tell ride. Same scenario, national organizations work with those who set policy and regulate our federal lands, to get them out of their comfort zones and on a snowmobile. Sometimes that’s the only way to generate common ground decisions and develop

8 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

continued from page 7 we rarely agreed on anything political, we just didn’t discuss such issues during these outings. We did, however, discuss plenty of snowmobiling concerns. We loaded the sleds and said our goodbyes with the understanding that it may be quite a while before we can do anything like this again, but we would certainly try to make it happen. Sometimes, just winging it is better than making a plan and trying to stick to it, and this was definitely one of those times. When this acquaintance returned to the private sector, having elected not to seek another term, he proclaimed no further desire to participate in politics, either locally or at the state or national levels. But the fact that he enjoys motorized recreation, specifically snowmobiling, he has made it clear that he is willing to go to bat for us, using whatever clout he may still possess. The one thing we still agree on however, is that whenever we get together, we can reminisce about our discussescapades,snowmobilingbutwedon’tpolitics.•

COPPER HARBOR 235 miles of groomed trails with 250 inches snowfall. Gas & Oil, Restaurants, Lodging and Groceries Where the road ends and adventure copperharbor.orgbegins. 1198_CHIA_Snowmobiling banner ad.indd 1 8/21/20 11:12 AM Lakefront Rooms, 2-Bedroom Cottages, & Campground (RV & Tent) To inquire about lodging call 833-326-6946 or visit fannyhooe.com ★ Gas ★ accessoriesSnowmobile& oil ★ Refreshment ★ Snacks Credit/debit cards accepted | Open 7 days a week | Seasonal Hours 715 Gratiot Street | CopperHarborFuelStop.com906-289-3483 Cabins, Motel and Restaurant Great Sandwiches, Soups, Salads & Pizza Fresh Whitefish, Ribs, Steaks, Kid’s Menu 888-MA NORTH • www.manorth.com A fun, creative spot to grab a bite to eat, orcocktail,signaturecraftbeer To inquire about lodging call 833-326-6946 or visit fannyhooe.com For to-go orders call 906-289-4010 CopperExploreComeCountry

Sometimes, just winging it is better than making a plan and trying to stick to it, and this was definitely one of those times.

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER• 2022 | 9 Can OutlanderAmMaxSkidoo MXZ Kawasaki 400 Ninja Can SpyderAmF3 Enjoy work, play or hunting with Motorcycles, Spyder Roadsters, ATV’s, Side x Sides and Snowmobiles from Skidoo, Kawasaki, Can Am and Honda. I-75810-564-1929www.nordride.comMt.Morris,MIExit#126 KAWASAKIKRX1000TERYXTRAIL CADILLAC SLEDDING ALONG THE CABERFAE TRAIL areyouhere Out in the middle of everywhere. ACCESS MAPS & TRAIL UPDATES CADILLACMICHIGAN.COM Cadillac’s Premier Snowmobile Destination! Check out our web cam at coyotecrossingresort.com • On Trail 638 Check snow conditions on shweb.com Located 12 miles west of Cadillac in the heart of the trail system! • 10 Deluxe 2-Bedroom Cottages • Full Bar & Restaurant 231-862-3212GreaterNorthPowerSportsAndRent.com Brand New 2022 Sleds for This Rental Year! GREATER NORTH POWER SPORTS AND RENTALS 916 W. 13th St. Cadillac, MI 49601 PHONE: 231-878-1678 SHOP: 231-468-2338 Small Engine Repairs • Sales & Service

On September 23 & 24, the annual East Jordan Fall Fest will be held at the East Jordan Tourist Park located on the beautiful South Arm of Lake Charlevoix. The event, sponsored by the City of East Jordan Parks and Rec., Department features music, a co-ed softball tournament, food, beer tent, corn hole tournament, hayrides, children’s games, face painting, art and craft show, campsite decorating contest for campers at the park, early Trick or Treating at the Fall

riving across the 26 scenic miles of C-48 The Breezeway this past week for events, there are hints of “fall colors” starting to happen on trees. At our Chamber Office, we are already planning for the 13th Annual Breezeway Fall Color Cruises (scheduled for three consecutive Saturday’s – Sept. 24, Oct. 1 and Oct. 8). From 10:00 AM – Noon at Royal Farms in Atwood pick up your goodie bags filled with coupons, business swag, “Trip Tips” sheet of attractions, events, etc. and then “tour” 26 miles of the Breezeway at your own pace. Explore and discover businesses, events and places of interest on your schedule and choice! Plenty of places to dine at, shop and experience fall!

BreezewayonApproachingFastThe

September, 2019 - MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER 17

Jordan competition,FebruaryplanningkickedSno-AnnualFestival21–Jordan.wonder-festivalcel-northernandnon-Thefesti-multitudeofsnowmo-antiquesnowfoodsnowmobilemore.Jordancomesbeauty!withfall Fest will be celebrated on email info@ejchamber.org –Visit our website at ww.ejchamber.org. BREAKFASTSERVINGEVERYSUNDAY7TILLNOON~DECEMBERTHRUMARCH5586 MT. BLISS RD EAST JORDAN, MI S Page 17 SERVING 7am–NoonEVERYBREAKFASTSUNDAY•DEC.–MAR. 5586 MT. BLISS ROAD | EAST JORDAN, MI exploring the breezeway

continued on page 12

10 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

drink and ride. /// SIDEWINDERYAMAHAMOTORSPORTS.COM S-TX GT /// THE MOST POWERFUL 2-UP SNOWMOBILE 146 REAR SUSPENSION WITH OVERLOAD SPRINGS I REAR HARD CASE WITH AUXILIARY FUEL TANK I HEATED DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEAT ROCKET PAST BIG RACY TWINS WITH TURBO CHARGED AUTHORITY 2020 T & R YAMAHA INC. 215 MAIN ST EAST JORDAN MI, 231-536-721149727 T & R Yamaha Inc. 215 Main Street East Jordan, MI 49727 (231) www.tandryamaha.com536-7462 2023 YAMAHA SIDEWINDER SRX LE FRONT - FOX 1.5 ZERO IQS WITH SRX DUAL RATE SPRINGS, CENTER - MONOTUBE ALUM-HP GAS 1.5, REAR - FOX 2.0 ZERO IQS | TURBO 4-STROKE, CLASS - ULTRA PERFORMANCE | AUTOMOTIVE & RCA DC OUTPUT, 20 IN. TUNNEL BAG SAVE THE DATE FEBRUARY 19-21, 2021. 40th ANNUAL SNO-BLAST WINTER FESTIVAL Discover our area for the finest Snowshoeing, Cross Country Skiing, Winter Rafting Trips, Star Gazing, Ice Fishing and more!! MANNTHOMAS SAVE THE DATE FEBRUARY 19-21, 2021. 40th ANNUAL SNO-BLAST WINTER FESTIVAL Discover our area for the finest Snowshoeing, Cross Country Skiing, Winter Rafting Trips, Star Gazing, Ice Fishing and more!! MANNTHOMAS EAST JORDAN A Natural Destination... www.ejchamber.org East Jordan Area Chamber of Commerce 231-536-7351 | info@ejchamber.org We “Own” the Fall Great Experiences Await You Hiking • Kayaking • Biking • Scenic Drives Breath Taking Views A Photographers Wonderland SAVE THE DATE Breezeway Fall Color Tour Cruises Sept. 24, Oct. 1, Oct. 8 Fall Fest Sept. 24

146 REAR SUSPENSION WITH OVERLOAD SPRINGS I REAR HARD CASE WITH AUXILIARY FUEL TANK I HEATED DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEAT ROCKET PAST BIG RACY TWINS WITH TURBO CHARGED AUTHORITY may not be exactly as Shown with U.S.A. All rights Product and specifications subject to change without notice. Professional rider on closed course Ride responsibly and always ride within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvering, and respect all Don’t

others around you. Know the conditions. Observe

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MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 11 EAST JORDAN

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state and local laws.

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*Models may not be exactly as shown. Shown with optional accessories. ©2019 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Product and specifications subject to change without notice. Professional rider on closed course under controlled conditions. Always wear an approved helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Ride responsibly and always ride within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvering, and respect others around you. Know the conditions. Observe all state and local laws. Don’t drink and ride.

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12 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV continued from page 10 EAST JORDAN Four Seasons Marina • Boat and Snowmobile Repair • New and Used Parts • Full Service (All Makes) 612 BRIDGE STREET • EAST JORDAN 231-536-7321 The Insurance Shop of East Jordan 824 WATER STREET, EAST JORDAN, MI 49727 T 231.536.3331 F 231.536.3332 info@theinsuranceshop.net SEASONALS • COMMERCIAL Auto • Home • Snowmobiles • RV • ORV GRAND TRAVERSE campsites, plus more. Fun for all ages! Friday night will feature the very popular Jelly Roll Blues Band from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Saturday’s line-up includes 10:00 AM - Lou Thumser, 12:00 Noon –Nelson Olstrom, 2:00 PM – Charlie’s Root Fusion, 4:00 PM – Two Track Mind and local rock band Derailed from 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM. If you are simply interested in taking a fall drive throughout the Breezeway and Jordan Valley during the week, the Chamber has suggested color tour routes and maps available. There are also several nature preserves throughout the area for great hiking. Fall is also an excellent time to canoe or kayak the wild and scenic Jordan River or the Chain of Lakes Water Trail. The Annual Paddle Antrim Festival takes place on September 15 – 17, 2022 on the Chain of Lakes. For more information on the Paddle Antrim event ejchamber.orgber.orgormerceAreacontactoronwww.paddleantrim.com.visitFormoreinformationanyoftheseeventsfallcolortourroutes,theEastJordanChamberofCom-at231-536-7351email–info@ejcham-orwebsitewww.•We have a great selection of helmets,

Coloradotostatestates,occurTrue,ingServicerior’sDepartmentForestthenecessaryorthedresstogovernment’sconcernedhaveSnowmobilerslongbeenabouttheinabilityadequatelyad-anysolutiontowildfiredilemmamakeavailablefundingtoUSDA’sNationalServiceortheofInte-NationalParkforcombat-theproblems.mostwildfiresinthewesternbuteveryissusceptiblesuchdisasters.Inrecently,

BY JIM DUKE CONTRIBUTING WRITER Cong. O’HalleranTom politics staying informed

■

14 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

MarkSenatorRomneyMittSenatorKelly

Every so often among the many calamities heaped on our Senators and members of Congress, some concerns of the public citizens surface and are considered important enough to be brought to the floor for debate. In the last few months of the previous year, most actions in both House and Senate were devoted to seeking any solutions to the coronavirus pandemic and almost nothing of significance to the recreational communities, but external of the halls of congress, especially within the various environmental agencies, there was a few changes and advancements that we, as motorized recreational enthusiasts should be aware of.

In & Around the Halls of Congress

■ Approaching the end of 2021, the government established a federal commission to seek all reasonable means to cope with the surge in what is being called “megafires”, again, primarily focusing on the western states. The new committee will be bipartisan and called the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission in the InvestmentInfrastructureandJobs Act, a bill sponsored by Congressman Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ) in the House & co-sponsored by Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT) and Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ).

entire communities fell victim to raging wildfires and were only brought under control thanks to the winter snows.

■ In an update on the Biden administration’s 30x30 plan, with a goal to preserve 30% of U.S. lands and waters by the year 2030, the White House recently announced significant progress in conservation efforts of the America the Beautiful Initiative, a 10 year federal conservation program. Reference was made to the Infrastructure Package as being crucial to those conservation efforts.

the

NATIONAL FOREST SERVICE ■ Snowmobilers are still restricted from certain areas within the Panhandle National Forest in Northern Idaho, and have been since 2007 when the ban was implemented, declaring the closure areas as critical habitat for caribou. In mid-December a U.S. District Court Judge up-

INDIAN RIVER &SalesRentals,Service231.333.3600 www.ir-sc.com 562 S. Straits Hwy • Indian River, MI 49749 Please call for extended winter hours All SnowmobilePolarisNEWRENTALS! ELMIRA ®,TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. 4879 South Straits Hwy. Indian River, MI 49749 Family Owned & Operated since 1969 Sales Showroom & Gear: 231-238-9315 Parts & Service: www.burtlakemarina.com231-238-8265 Open: M-F 8:30-5:30 • SAT 8:30-2:00 ALL TRAILS LEAD TO LARRY’S Corner of US.131 & M 32 | West Elmira 49730 231.546.3342

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 15 continued on page 16 ■

The thecanORVourusingpreviously.thegoalhighercoupleministrationsetareyears.standardtoforincreaseBidenStandards,tainingreleasedProtectionEnvironmentalAgencyrecentlyit’sfinalruleper-toVehicleMileageagoalbytheadministrationtoarequirementcarsandlighttrucksachievea40MPGwithinthenext5Thenewstandardsupfromthe32MPGbythepreviousad-in2020andaofmilespergallonthantheoriginalof38MPGsetbyBidenadministrationForthoseofussuchvehiclestotowRVorsnowmobile&trailers,thisinitiativeonlyservetoincreasepriceofsuchunits.

■ The environmental activist groups are rejoicing in what they are calling a victory in gaining an agreement with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The agreement comes as a result of a lawsuit filed by the groups in 2020 which stated the previous administration’s decision not to place the spotted owl on the endangered species list was unlawful. As part of the agreement, the agency will conduct a new review of the Endangered Species Act, to be completed by 25 February 2023.

■ Congressman Cliff Bentz (R-OR) has intro duced a bill, HR-6019, to review and classify the crit ical habitat for the Northern Spotted Owl. Bentz’s office said this bill will ultimately remove about 1 million acres of non-northern spotted owl habitat lands from the area designated as owl habitat. We would hope this would also permit mo torized recreation to resume in the previously restricted zones.

■ We keep hearing about the financial shortfall the government is continually facing, and how without 14means of additional funds it would have to shut down. In early December that same scenario played out again with lawmak ers on both sides of the aisle and in both House & Senate scrambling to get a bill worked out for some extended funding. The bill was H.R. 6119, received bipartisan support, and approved extended agency funding through the mid dle of February. Some of us wonder why this issue keeps popping up and why it can’t be resolved with a payment period longer than just a couple of months be fore it has to be considered again? Perhaps a shutdown and some serious cleansing is due.

■ It’s only been a year or two that the governmental leaders in the Trump Administration determined that since the majority of BLM controlled lands was in the western states, the Bureau could better function if the primary offices were located out west as well. They closed the facilities in Washington, DC and moved lock, stock, and barrel to Grand Junction, Colorado. Now for whatever reason, the current administration wants the BLM back in the Capital city.

■ Closer to home, the Hiawatha National Forest was recognized with a Coalition for Recreational Trails (CRT) award, along with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Alger County Snowmobile & ORV Association, and the Munising Visitors Bureau for the restoration of the Doty Trestle Bridge, a major connector for the multi-use trail that completely crosses the Upper Peninsula from Sault Sainte Marie in the east to Ironwood at the western boundary. The trail is maintained year-round by the SORVA of Alger County as a programs grant sponsor. BUREAU OF MANAGEMENTLAND(BLM)

Dir. ManningStone-Tracy ORV held the ban even though it has been proved that caribou no longer migrate into the lower forty-eight states. Reasoning that the Endangered Species Act still justifies the action, the ban on snowmobiles and other over-snow vehicles will remain in effect until the Forest Service adopts a winter recreation travel plan, which most likely will not be completed until sometime in 2023.

■ Director Stone-ManningTracysays the agency will keep the Colorado office as their DC.Washington,willitsmovingtherefewretainingHeadquarters”,“WesternapositionswhilemostofleadershipreturntoTheDirector and deputy director of operations have already returned along with the deputy director of policy and programs.

16 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER +

the politics | staying informed continued from page 15

KAWASAKI CARES: Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Always wear protective gear appropriate for the use of this vehicle. Never operate under the inﬂuence of drugs or alcohol. Protect the environment. The Kawasaki MULE™ side x side is an offhighway vehicle only, and is not designed, equipped or manufactured for use on public streets, roads or highways. Obey the laws and regulations that control the use of your vehicle. ©2021 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. FOR WORK AND PLAY, MULE™ SIDE X SIDES ARE BUILT STRONG AND BUILT TO LAST. Assembled in the U.S.A. badge does not apply to MULE PRO-MX™ models"

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Markwastotallydedi-mousfromhisdaysaswasalsohugelyfa-LikeVicWertz,MarkaTiger.And,likeVic,

Markwastotallydedi-mousfromhisdaysaswasalsohugelyfa-LikeVicWertz,MarkaTiger.And,likeVic, AREATHISVISITTHEMUNISINGWINTER Enjoymilesofgroomedtrailswithoutcrossingastreet.Locatedinaquietneighborhood3blockssouthofM-28.OnTrail#41910%OFFYOURSTAYWITHTHISAD TERRACEMOTEL 906-387-2735 420PROSPECTST.•MUNISING,MI49862 WWW.TERRACEMOTEL.NET •AmpleTrailerParking•Sauna/Gameroom•AtDoorParking•HeatedRepairArea •ComplimentaryCoffee•Non-SmokingRooms•ExtendedCable•WirelessInternet INFORMATIONONSNOWMOBILING~OPENALLYEAR •King& QueenSizeBeds •Largerefrig.withFreezer •LargeWhirlpool&Sauna •DeluxeHotBreakfast •DIRECTSNOWMOBILETRAILACCESS •NexttoGas&Convenientstore •Convenient•QuietLocation•NearCasino 906-387-2466 M-28-Munising,MI49862 www,northstarhotelpicturedrocks.com tei,backin2008.Bird”Fidrych”andpastpresidentKenMat-ThelateLyleShipe,thelateMark“the Theathleticsarethereasonforthewon-derfulthingstheWertzwarriorsdo. Continuedonpage28lemsaswell.And,theysomephysicalprob-issues.Somehadwerehappyandhav-gfun.AllthankstoheWertzWarriors.Forme,somethingreallyhitmedeepin-side.Eversincethatfirsttime,wheneverIamhavingabaddayoraroughtime,Ithinkofthe“Special”peopleIhavecometoknowandlove.Ithinkofallthethingstheyhavehadtodealwithevery

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MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV continued on page 18 NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

KAWASAKI CARES: Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Always wear protective gear appropriate for the use of this vehicle. Never operate under the inﬂuence of drugs or alcohol. Protect the environment. The Kawasaki MULE™ side x side is an offhighway vehicle only, and is not designed, equipped or manufactured for use on public streets, roads or highways. Obey the laws and regulations that control the use of your vehicle. ©2021 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. FOR WORK AND PLAY, SIDE X SIDES ARE BUILT AND BUILT TO LAST. Assembled in the U.S.A. badge does not apply to MULE PRO-MX

mentaldevelopmentinawe.Allhadsome“people.”Iwastotally“They”werejustlikecouldn’tbeliveit.joyingthemselves.Iingsomuchfun.Theycause“they”werehav-“them.“Then,be-weresomanyofAtfirst,becausetherekindofshellshocked.1,000ofthem.Iwastherewaslikeaboutcialpeople.But,here,werelaughingandjok-ingandjustplainen- lemsaswell.And,theysomephysicalprob-issues.Somehadwerehappyandhav-ingfun.AllthankstotheWertzWarriors.Forme,somethingreallyhitmedeepin-side.Eversincethatfirsttime,wheneverIamhavingabaddayoraroughtime,Ithinkofthe“Special”peopleIhavecometoknowandlove.Ithinkofallthethingstheyhavehadtodealwithevery

■ Phase 3 becomes effective on January 1, 2024 with yet another fee increase to fifteen dollars for the walkers, bicycles, Scan with camera to view videos, keyandfeaturesmore.

knewfromtheSnow-gottoknowbecauseofotherPresident,whoItheirrankinginthegroup.Then,otherssuchasDaveWhite,avideographer,andWayneReams,whoI mousDetroitTiger.Fidrych,anotherfa-Mark“theBird”ers.Plus,manymanyoth-mobileRacingcircuits.Then,therewas Markwastotallydedi-mousfromhisdaysaswasalsohugelyfa-LikeVicWertz,MarkaTiger.And,likeVic,

Some,likeVmanyoftheWarriors.camefriendswithall.notseemthatbadafterbotheringmejustdoeswhateveritisthat’shappy.Allofasudden,come.And,aresoveryday.And,haveover-Overtheyears,Ibe-icBatanni,aformerPresident,andKenMattei,an-otherPresident,whoIgottoknowbecauseoftheirrankinginthegroup.Then,otherssuchasDaveWhite,avideographer,andWayneReams,whoIknewfromtheSnow-

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■ In an unrelated announcement, Yellowstone National Park has suspended a wildlife monitoring program which had been used along roads within the park to monitor what effects, if any, snowmobiles and the multi-passenger snow coaches have on the park’s wildlife. This program began in 2013 with a restriction on the number of vehicles allowed into the park in winter months. After years of court battles, legal disputes, and restrictions pertaining to snowmobiles due to concerns over poor air quality and interfering with the park’s wildlife, especially bison. The monitoring system determined snowmobiles and other over-snow machines have minimal effects on any of the park wildlife and the park has opened its roads, at least for this winter season.

mousDetroitTiger.Fidrych,anotherfa-Mark“theBird”ers.Plus,manymanyoth-mobileRacingcircuits.Then,therewas

mousDetroitTiger.Fidrych,anotherfa-Mark“theBird”ers.Plus,manymanyoth-mobileRacingcircuits.Then,therewas Markwastotallydedi-mousfromhisdaysaswasalsohugelyfa-LikeVicWertz,MarkaTiger.And,likeVic,

■ The National Park Service has a new Director by the name of Charles F. Sams III. He was recently sworn in by Deb Haaland who is the Secretary of Interior. Mr. Sams, who prefers being called Chuck, is the first Native American to hold the top Park Service post. He worked in state and Tribal governments and the non-profit natural resource & conservation management fields for over twenty-five years before being considered to lead the NPS agency. Prior to being selected for the Park Service Directors post, he held a number of positions within the Tribal community, including President of the Indian Country NativeDirectorFoundation,UmatillaExecutiveConservancy,DirectoroftheTribalCommunityandNationaloftheTribal&LandsProgramfortheTrustforPublicLand.HehasalsoheldanEx-ecutiveDirectortitlewithseveralotheragencies,includingPresident&CEOfortheEarthConservationCorps.

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AREATHISVISITTHEMUNISINGWINTER Enjoymilesofgroomedtrailswithoutcrossingastreet.Locatedinaquietneighborhood3blockssouthofM-28.OnTrail#41910%OFFYOURSTAYWITHTHISAD TERRACEMOTEL 906-387-2735 420PROSPECTST.•MUNISING,MI49862 WWW.TERRACEMOTEL.NET •AmpleTrailerParking•Sauna/Gameroom•AtDoorParking•HeatedRepairArea •ComplimentaryCoffee•Non-SmokingRooms•ExtendedCable•WirelessInternet INFORMATIONONSNOWMOBILING~OPENALLYEAR •King& QueenSizeBeds •Largerefrig.withFreezer •LargeWhirlpool&Sauna •DeluxeHotBreakfast •DIRECTSNOWMOBILETRAILACCESS •NexttoGas&Convenientstore •Convenient•QuietLocation•NearCasino 906-387-2466 M-28-Munising,MI49862 www,northstarhotelpicturedrocks.com tei,backin2008.Bird”Fidrych”andpastpresidentKenMat-ThelateLyleShipe,thelateMark“the Theathleticsarethereasonforthewon-derfulthingstheWertzwarriorsdo. Continuedonpage28 Jan. HEARST .qxp_HEARST 12/19/19 1:09 PM Page 27 aTiger.And,likeVic, Markwastotallydedi- Continuedonpage28 lemsaswell.And,theysomephysicalprob-issues.Somehadwerehappyandhav-gfun.AllthankstoheWertzWarriors.Forme,somethingreallyhitmedeepin-side.Eversincethatfirsttime,wheneverIamhavingabaddayoraroughtime,Ithinkofthe“Special”peopleIhavecometoknowandlove.Ithinkofallthethingstheyhavehadtodealwithevery knewfromtheSnow-gottoknowbecauseoftheirrankinginthegroup.Then,otherssuchasDaveWhite,avideographer,andWayneReams,whoI

Some,likeVicBatanni,aformerPresident,andKenMattei,an-otherPresident,whoIgottoknowbecauseoftheirrankinginthegroup.Then,otherssuchasDaveWhite,avideographer,andWayneReams,whoIknewfromtheSnow- mousDetroitTiger.Fidrych,anotherfa-Mark“theBird”ers.Plus,manymanyoth-mobileRacingcircuits.Then,therewas

Some,likeVmanyoftheWarriors.camefriendswithall.Overtheyears,Ibe-icBatanni,aformerPresident,andKenMattei,an-otherPresident,whoIgottoknowbecauseoftheirrankinginthegroup.Then,otherssuchasDaveWhite,avideographer,andWayneReams,whoIknewfromtheSnow-

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Some,likeVmanyoftheWarriors.camefriendswithicBatanni,aformerPresident,andKenMattei,an-otherPresident,whoIgottoknowbecauseoftheirrankinginthegroup.Then,otherssuchasDaveWhite,avideographer,andWayneReams,whoIknewfromtheSnow- mousDetroitTiger.Fidrych,anotherfa-Mark“theBird”ers.Plus,manymanyoth-mobileRacingcircuits.Then,therewas Markwastotallydedi-mousfromhisdaysaswasalsohugelyfa-LikeVicWertz,MarkaTiger.And,likeVic,

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AREATHISVISITTHEMUNISINGWINTER Enjoymilesofgroomedtrailswithoutcrossingastreet.Locatedinaquietneighborhood3blockssouthofM-28.OnTrail#41910%OFFYOURSTAYWITHTHISAD TERRACEMOTEL 906-387-2735 420PROSPECTST.•MUNISING,MI49862 WWW.TERRACEMOTEL.NET •ComplimentaryCoffee•Non-SmokingRooms•ExtendedCable•WirelessInternet INFORMATIONONSNOWMOBILING~OPENALLYEAR •King& QueenSizeBeds •Largerefrig.withFreezer •LargeWhirlpool&Sauna •DeluxeHotBreakfast •DIRECTSNOWMOBILETRAILACCESS •NexttoGas&Convenientstore •Convenient•QuietLocation•NearCasino 906-387-2466 M-28-Munising,MI49862 www,northstarhotelpicturedrocks.com Bird”Fidrych”andpastpresidentKenMat-ThelateLyleShipe,thelateMark“the Theathleticsarethereasonforthewon-derfulthingstheWertzwarriorsdo. Continuedonpage28mentaldevelopmentinawe.Allhadsome“people.”Iwastotally“They”werejustlikecouldn’tbeliveit.joyingthemselves.Iingsomuchfun.Theycause“they”werehav-“them.“Then,be-weresomanyofAtfirst,becausetherekindofshellshocked.1,000ofthem.Iwastherewaslikeaboutcialpeople.But,here,werelaughingandjok-ingandjustplainen-

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mousDetroitTiger.Fidrych,anotherfa-Mark“theBird”ers.Plus,manymanyoth-mobileRacingcircuits.Then,therewas Markwastotallydedi-mousfromhisdaysaswasalsohugelyfa-LikeVicWertz,MarkaTiger.And,likeVic,mentaldevelopmentinawe.Allhadsome“people.”Iwastotally“They”werejustlikecouldn’tbeliveit.joyingthemselves.Iingsomuchfun.Theycause“they”werehav-“them.“Then,be-weresomanyofAtfirst,becausetherekindofshellshocked.1,000ofthem.Iwastherewaslikeaboutcialpeople.But,here,werelaughingandjok-ingandjustplainen- lemsaswell.And,theysomephysicalprob-issues.Somehadwerehappyandhav-ingfun.AllthankstotheWertzWarriors.Forme,somethingreallyhitmedeepin-side.Eversincethatfirsttime,wheneverIamhavingabaddayoraroughtime,Ithinkofthe“Special”peopleIhavecometoknowandlove.Ithinkofallthethingstheyhavehadtodealwithevery

Assembled in the U.S.A. badge does not apply to MULE PRO-MX™ models"

FOR WORK AND PLAY, SIDE X SIDES ARE BUILT AND BUILT TO LAST. Assembled in the U.S.A. badge does not apply to MULE

AREATHISVISITTHEMUNISINGWINTER Enjoymilesofgroomedtrailswithoutcrossingastreet.Locatedinaquietneighborhood3blockssouthofM-28.OnTrail#41910%OFFYOURSTAYWITHTHISAD TERRACEMOTEL 420PROSPECTST.•MUNISING,MI49862 •ComplimentaryCoffee•Non-SmokingRooms INFORMATIONONSNOWMOBILING~OPENALLYEAR •King& QueenSizeBeds •Largerefrig.withFreezer •LargeWhirlpool&Sauna •DeluxeHotBreakfast •DIRECTSNOWMOBILETRAILACCESS •NexttoGas&Convenientstore •Convenient•QuietLocation•NearCasino 906-387-2466 M-28-Munising,MI49862 www,northstarhotelpicturedrocks.com Continuedonpage28

January,2020-MICHIGANSNOWMOBILER27

■ The current season may be the final time visitors will be able to enter the Pictured Rocks Nation al Park & Lakeshore without paying an entrance fee. In fact, camping and lighthouse tour fees have already increased as of the first day of this new year. Effective this year on the first day of March, a person wishing to walk or ride a bicycle into the park will be required to pay a five-dollar fee which will be valid for seven continuous days from date of purchase. Boaters will also be assessed a similar fee. Motor vehicles, including motorcycles will need to purchase a ten-dollar pass which will be valid for seven days, or may purchase an annual (12 month) pass for twenty dollars. But this is just phase one!

mousDetroitTiger.Fidrych,anotherfa-Mark“theBird”ers.Plus,manymanyoth-mobileRacingcircuits.Then,therewas Markwastotallydedi-mousfromhisdaysaswasalsohugelyfa-LikeVicWertz,MarkaTiger.And,likeVic,lemsaswell.And,theysomephysicalprob-issues.Somehadwerehappyandhav-ingfun.AllthankstotheWertzWarriors.Forme,somethingreallyhitmedeepin-side.Eversincethatfirsttime,wheneverIamhavingabaddayoraroughtime,Ithinkofthe“Special”peopleIhavecometoknowandlove.Ithinkofallthethingstheyhavehadtodealwithevery

WWW.STEVENSCYCLE.COM989-684-9872 Scan with camera to view videos, keyandfeaturesmore.

■ Effective on January 1, 2023, phase 2 begins and rates will double in price ($10.00) for walkers, bicycles, and boaters. For vehicles, excluding motorcycles. The pass will cost twenty dollars for seven days. The fee for motorcycles will increase to fifteen dollars for seven days and the cost for an annual pass will be thirty dollars.

STEVENS CYCLE SALES INC

• the politics | staying informed NAUBINWAY Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum www.snowmobilemuseum.cominfo@snowmobilemuseum.com P.O. Box 2 W11660 US 2 Naubinway, MI 49762 906-477-6298 Open Daily 9-5 PM Call for after hours appointment US 2 - Upper Peninsula, MI CALUMETwww.CopperCountryRental.com Snowmobile Rentals 906-337-9905 Located on trail #17 • 1/4 Mile North of Calumet, Michigan (10 min. North of Houghton)

■ The Department of Commerce has disclosed that motorcycle riding and off-road vehicle usage ranked fourth largest among the nation’s most popular outdoor activities. Snow related activities ranked sixth. As outdoor recreational activities continue to grow, so will the boost to the economy. Let nobody tell that snowmobiling and fun isn’t a big ever!

18 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

■ It is uncertain at this time just how snowmobilers and other winter visitors will be affected by these new fee requirements. Considering current conditions, with park facilities being closed during the winter months and access limited mostly to snowmobiles and other over-snow vehicles, such use has yet to be determined.

OUTDOOR RECREATION

business…

continued from page 17 and boaters for a seven-day pass while the pass for motorcycles will go to twenty dollars. A seven-day pass for other vehicles will be twenty-five dollars and the annual pass will increase to forty-five dollars.

■ Superintendent David Horne said the new fees will go a long way in providing much needed funding for park improvements. Basic park operations are funded by direct appropriations from Congress, but recreation fees collected at the parks go toward facility maintenance projects such as maintaining safe trails, campground improvements, and visitor centers, as well as development of areas for future uses.

■ One final note from the Coalition for Recreational Trails, according to a recent report from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, outdoor recreation generated more than six-hundred billion dollars and more than four-hundred million jobs in communities across the country, and this was during a year where shutdowns and closures were the norm. As we begin another year with the coronavirus and its many variants keeping a hold on our freedoms, we need to all stand firm and continue to enjoy the great outdoors whenever possible.

you

off-road

2020 Clothing, Services, Rental Packages with Lodging Rentals available in Newberry, Hulbert, Paradise, Curtis and Seney Sales & RentalService 3 LAKES 4 SEASONS 800-652-8784 or 906-586-3700 Visit the Curtis area this winter

MI FROMSKI-DOO906-586-9531RENTALS$229.00PERDAY 2020 Parts, Clothing, Services, Rental Packages with Lodging Rentals available in Newberry, Hulbert, Paradise, Curtis and Seney Sales & RentalService 3 LAKES 4 SEASONS

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The Sault Groomer Barn, where everything happens. Here is Dennis Hank of Chippewa Motors, and LeeAnn Izzard.

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September, 2019 around the end of the first part of Not in June. I got this einviting me over burgers, brats, corn cob, and a year,But,aboutthoughtmarshmal-fewasecondIhadamonthHadsomeissueslatelytookagoodthosepillbot-knowwhatIwhenIgotMartintoldmejustdecideduptoJune.NolongnapSeemsthatmanySSAalwayshavesome-doaroundthethepicnic,so

The Sault Groomer Barn, where everything happens. Here is Dennis Hank of Chippewa Motors, and LeeAnn Izzard. 2019 they made the move to make the Anyhow,move.itworked out pretty good. Martin said, “We had a really good turn out. Some really good fun. And, some really good comradery.”Asfor me, of course I had to sample all of this, in the name of journalistic integrity, of course. So, I can say that without a doubt that the burgers were really good. The corn on the cob was awesome. Martin and I both commented on the fact that this was really tasty corn for the early part of summer. And, the funky green marshmallow fluff stuff was also downright tasty. Plus, Prince, my little five pound ShiTsu mix side kick told me that the hot dogs were also just perfect. Then, I watched as Martin’s brother Al toasted up some marshmallows over the fire for his grand daughter Alexa. She really seemed to enjoy the traditional tasty treat of summer. However, I did somewhat of a faux paux. At first, mistook Alexa for a him. OK, she is 13, skinny, and had short hair. But, not a him. A her.Anyway, back to the SSA. Martin happily told me that the club has about 60 Family memberships, which translates into about 150 members. Then, they also have about 30 Commercial members. Martin also told me that at the moment, they groom about 102 miles of Trails. Including 9 miles within the City Limits of the Soo. Which is pretty cool, in itself. A+ for the Soo on being sledder friendly.TheSSA has three groomers, two Tuckers and a Piston Bully. They are pulling two

they made the move to make the out pretty good. Martin said, “We ha d a really good turn out. Some really good fun. And, some really good comradery.”Asfor me, of course I had to sample all of this, in the name of journalistic integrity, of course. So, I can say that without a doubt that the burgers were really good. The corn on the cob was awesome. Martin and I both commented on the fact that this was really tasty corn for the early part of summer. And, the funky green marshmallow fluff stuff was also downright tasty. Plus, Prince, my little five pound ShiTsu mix side kick told me that the hot dogs were also just perfect. Then, I watched as Martin’s brother Al toasted up some marshmallows over the fire for his grand daughter Alexa. She really seemed to enjoy the traditional tasty treat of summer. However, I did somewhat of a faux paux. At first, mistook Alexa for a him. OK, she is 13 , skinny, and had short hair. But, not a him. A her.Anyway, back to the SSA. Martin happily told me that the club has about 60 Family memberships, which translates into about 150 members. they also 30 itself.WhichLimitsmilesTrails.aboutment,mebers.CommercialMartinthatthey102IncludingwithinofisprettyA+onbeingfriendly.TheSSAgroomers,andaPistonTheyarethey made the move to make the Anyhow,move.itworked out pretty good. Martin said, “We had a really good turn out. Some really good fun. And, some really good comradery.”Asfor me, of course I had to sample all of this, in the name of journalistic integrity, of course. So, I can say that without a doubt that the burgers were really good. The corn on the cob was awesome. Martin and I both commented on the fact that this was really tasty corn for the early part of summer. And, the funky green marshmallow fluff stuff was also downright tasty. Plus, Prince, my little five pound ShiTsu mix side kick told me that the hot dogs were also just perfect. Then, I watched as Martin’s brother Al toasted up some marshmallows over the fire for his grand daughter Alexa. She really seemed to enjoy the traditional tasty treat of summer. However, I did somewhat of a faux paux. At first, mistook Alexa for a him. OK, she is 13, skinny, and had short hair. But, not a him. A her.Anyway, back to the SSA. Martin happily told me that the club has about 60 Family memberships, which translates into about 150 members. Then, they also have about 30 Commercial members. Martin also told me that at the moment, they groom about 102 miles of Trails. Including 9 miles within the City Limits of the Soo. Which is pretty cool, in itself. A+ for the Soo on being sledder friendly.TheSSA has three groomers, two Tuckers and a Piston Bully. They are pulling two HR WEST MACKINAC BRIDGE CURTIS, 800-652-8784 906-586-3700 TM

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2019 they made the move to make the Anyhow,move.itworked out pretty good. Martin said, “We had a really good turn out. Some really good fun. And, some really good comradery.”Asfor me, of course I had to sample all of this, in the name of journalistic integrity, of course. So, I can say that without a doubt that the burgers were really good. The corn on the cob was awesome. Martin and I both commented on the fact that this was really tasty corn for the early part of summer. And, the funky green marshmallow fluff stuff was also downright tasty. Plus, Prince, my little five pound ShiTsu mix side kick told me that the hot dogs were also just perfect. Then, I watched as Martin’s brother Al toasted up some marshmallows over the fire for his grand daughter Alexa. She really seemed to enjoy the traditional tasty treat of summer. However, I did somewhat of a faux paux. At first, mistook Alexa for a him. OK, she is 13 skinny, and had short hair. But, not a him. A her.Anyway, back to the SSA. Martin happily told me that the club has about 60 Family memberships, which translates into about 150 members. Then, they also have about 30 Commercial members. Martin also told me that at the moment, they groom about 102 miles of Trails. Including 9 miles within the City Limits of the Soo. Which is pretty cool, in itself. A+ for the Soo on being sledder friendly.TheSSA has three groomers, two Tuckers and a Piston Bully. They are pulling two WEST OF MACKINAC BRIDGE IN CURTIS, MI FROMSKI-DOO906-586-9531RENTALS$229.00PERDAY

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September,

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 19 60

20 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

MooseMichigan’sCapital Newberry — Your Next Amazing Snowmobiling Adventure! BY KIM KISNER CONTRIBUTING WRITER our town

Ranked #1 in Most Scenic Snowmobiling Area, Best Trail Riding, Best Power Riding and Most Challenging Rid ing in SnowGoer Magazine, it is a magical place to ride.

n the snowbelt of the Upper Peninsula surrounded by state and national forests and known as the gateway to the Tahquamenon Falls sits Newberry, Michigan. With a population of just over 1500 and the unique designa tion of being the ‘Moose Capital of Michigan’, thousands converge on the area each year to take their snowmobiling adventures to the next level. And rightfully so.

The area boasts 128 miles groomed and pristine trails, with the system con necting the entire UP. The Tahquamenon Area Snow mobile Association (TASA) takes it’s responsi bility for grooming and maintaining the trails very seriously, and puts many hours of labor and love into the task. And there’s plenty of time during the year to take advan tage … with snow coverage typically running from October through May, the area generally receives 28 inches of snow per year.

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 21 continued on page 22 Come for the snowmobiling, and you’ll be charmed by the amazing hospitality and great area attractions. WHAT TO SEE Check out the largest Bear Ranch in the entire United States - Oswald’s Bear Ranch. With 4 habitats that allow visitors to explore the perimeters and view these great live roaming bears, it’s a great place to bring the entireAndfamily.ifyou love animals, the GarLyn Zoological Park is home to hundreds of native North American animals including, alligator, black bear, wolves, bobcat, whitetail deer, cougar, river otter, porcupine, bison, also exotic animals from around the world, wallaby, Pata gonian cavy, ring-tailed lemur, camel, reindeer, sika NEWBERRY GET YOUR MONEY’S WORTH™ Make Your Stay WORTHWHILE • Free hot breakfast • Free Wi-Fi • refrigerator/microwaveIn-room • Indoor Hot Tub • Business center • Guest laundry GET YOUR MONEY’S WORTH™ Make Your Stay WORTHWHILE • Free hot breakfast • Free Wi-Fi • refrigerator/microwaveIn-room • Indoor Hot Tub • Business center • Guest laundry GET YOUR MONEY’S WORTH™ Make Your Stay WORTHWHILE • Free hot breakfast • Free Wi-Fi • refrigerator/microwaveIn-room • Indoor Hot Tub • Business center • Guest laundry GET YOUR MONEY’S WORTH™ Quality Inn & Suites 13954 State Hwy M-28 Newberry, MI 49868 • Indoor Hot Tub • Business center • Guest laundry GET YOUR MONEY’S WORTH™ Make Your Stay WORTHWHILE Quality Inn & Suites 13954 State Hwy M-28 Newberry, MI (906)293-321849868 Book your room with us at QualityInn.com • Free hot breakfast • Free Wi-Fi • In-room • Business center • Guest laundry Condo Units - can sleep up to 8 people w/ full kitchens OR New motel rooms w/2 queen beds Groomed trail right to our parking lot 13032 St Hwy M123 • Newberry, MI 49868 Call for Reservations 906-293-1906Wander.www.DuffysUPMotel.comExplore.Discover. 14 MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER - October, 2019 I would like to thank you for the Choko jacket and bibs. It looks great! I look forward to using it on the snowmobile rides next season.Myhusband and I rode in the Cadillac area and the UP from Newberry to Paradise when our kids were young. My husband pulled a sleigh behind his snowmobile with 2 of the kids in it, while i rode two-up with the other. We had many good times with the kids on the trail. Now that we are empty nesters we still love to ride in the Munising, Grand Marais and Seney areas. We enjoy taking our time on the trail taking in the sights and visiting waterfalls and lightFranksville,JoelKimThankshouses. again.FredenburgThemensSnowmo-bilesuitWinnerwasReevesofWI. NEWBERRY AREA “Clean comfortable room at reasonable rates” • Free ContinentalExtendedBreakfast•FreeWi-Fi • Indoor Pool, Whirlpool, Sauna • Trailer parking 906 293 4000 Reservations: 8 88-315-2378 Email : 1www.redlion.com/newberry.comnewberryabvi@gmail.com2956StateRouteM-28-Newberry One to LakecabinssixSuperiorJUST OFF THE TRAIL Burgers,andPizza SPEND TIME IN GRAND MARAIS THIS WINTER! 2019 SNOWMOBILECHOKOSUITWINNERS CHOKO AND THE MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER MAGAZINE DRAWING - ENTER Men’s & Ladies Choko - 2-piece Suit email_______________________________Phone______________________________CMailingName______________________________address______________________ity________________Zip_____________ONLYONEENTRYPERMailorFaxto:MichiganSnowmobilerP.O.Box417EastJordan,MIFax231-536-7691To qualify to win just complete the information on this page. Winners are responsible for any shipping or transportation costs and no cash equivalent will be given. Deadline for entries January 11th 2020 The womens Snowmobile Suit winner was Kim Fredenberg of Wayland, MI. “Clean comfortable room at reasonable rates” 906.293.4000 RESERVATIONS: 888.315.2378 EMAIL: 12956redlion.com/newberry.comnewberryabvi@gmail.comStateRouteM-28-Newberry • FREE ContinentalExtendedBreakfast • FREE Wi-Fi • Indoor Whirlpool,Pool,Sauna • Trailer Parking Call 231.536.2371 for your subscription today! Don’t miss an issue

WHERE TO STAY The Americas Best Value Inn Tahquamenon Country is situated near Oswald’s Bear Ranch with very close access to the snowmobiling trail heads. Their friendly and experienced staff is always eager to make your stay a memorable experience. Another great option is the Quality Inn and Suites on State Highway 28. With easy access to the trails and snowmobile rental on site, deluxe continental breakfast, hot tub and sauna it’s ideal for weekend riding visits. If comfy cabins and charm is more your style, try Deer Park Lodge. Offering a wilderness environment yet with easy access to area attractions and dining, it’s a great solution for those wanting a more “off the beaten path” experience. Make Newberry your destination for a trip this winter and you’ll want to return again and again!

continued from page 21 deer, sulcata tortoise to name a few. Just 6 miles east of Naubinway, only 40 minutes west of the Mackinac Bridge, the zoo offers a child friendly atmosphere and people friendly animals. Into History? Don’t miss the Luce County Historical Museum. Constructed in 1894, the Luce County Historical Museum is located at 411 West Harrie Street and holds a great collection of Luce County History, the old jail and sheriff’s residence, maps, pictures, along with other valuable artifacts.

22 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

• Quality Inn and Suits DEER PARK LOCATED 7 MILES NORTH OF PINE STUMP JUNCTION GENERAL STORE groceries • gifts snowmobile supplies & gear LP gas • BEER WINE LIQUOR Snowmobile & Trail permits available CABIN RENTALS with FULL KITCHENETTES $120 $185 All you need to bring is food Plenty of trailer parking For complete Deer Park info including cabin availability visit www.deerparklodgeresort.com FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 906-658-3341 29209 COUNTY RD 407 | NEWBERRY, MI 49868 PARADISE Open for the Winter Season NearTrailheadParadise • 12 Fully Equipped Log Cabins • Walking distance to Restaurants & Pub Call to Reserve: (906) 492-3320 www.paradiseshorescabins.com 8442 N. White sh Point Rd. Paradise, MI 49768 PARADISE INN 906-492-3940 | www.paradiseinnmich.com Properties for sale: Waterfront, River Front, Road Front & Acreage We are an ATV Trailhead — Great Riding. See our website for details. 36units&ampleparking DISCOUNTRATES SUN–THR MANAGEMENTUNDERNEW

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 23 DRUMMOND ISLAND (906) www.visitdrummondisland.com493-5245@visitdrummondisland MARQUETTE Joe & Kathy Cram #370 Country Rd 550 • Big Bay, MI 49808 | 906.345.0075 550 Club Big Bay MemberMSA Member www.cramsgeneralstore.com | Web Cam! Groceries • Hunting/Fishing Licenses Bait • Ice • Hardware • Beer • Wine Spirts • Laundromat • Gas • Lotto Breakfast at Hungry Hollow Cafe High Speed Internet Hot Spot IRONS IRONS AREA TOURIST ASSOCIATION Grooming 120 miles of premier trails in Lake/Mason & Manistee Counties, Grading 90 premier ORV trails Check trail conditions or upcoming events visit ironsarea.com Flea Roast/Ox Market last full weekend in June Skinner Park – Irons, MI BLESSING OF THE SLEDS | January 8, 2023 BLESSING OF THE ORV’S | May 28, 2023 HULBERT Cabins on Snowmobile Trail www.snoshuinn.com Wood Stoves, Linens, Groups and Rentals 906.876.2324 • snoshuinn@gmail.com SHUSNO INN 10429 S. Maple St. | Hulbert, MI grantinhulbert@yahoo.com | www.tahquamenonhotel.com 906-876-2388 Breakfast - Rooms - Wi Where it all begins! TAHQUAMENON HOTEL A Smo h Place to Rough It! Like us on Facebook!

WRITER on the cover Sled Warrior continued on page 26

This winter will be bittersweet for Jeff “JJ” Longton. Though he’ll be hanging around the racing circuit helping to crew, he won’t be out competing for the first time in some 40 years. “It’s not going to be easy this first season,” he admits. “But I know in my heart it’s time to retire. I am 60 and I have arthritis in my hands, so it’s hard to hang onto the handlebars. When you’re going 98 to 100 MPH, you have to be able to hang onto things. I would love to keep racing, but my family has been after me for a long time.” He’s proud to be going out on his own terms after winning 19 MIRA (Mid Jeff “JJ” Longton talks about his long career racing, retirement and how even now he is keeping his hands in the sport he loves.

24 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

BYJOYCE WISWELL CONTRIBUTING

continued from page 24 on the cover west International Racing Association) high-points championships, 17 second places and 11 thirds, as well as several hundred individual races. JJ capped it off last season with a MIRA championship in the F500/550ss/340 Mod Stock with 47 total points and came in second in points (54) in the Open 600/Super Mod Open.

“I was glad to be able to race at that highly com petitive level and win races right up to the end,” says JJ, a heavy equipment operator from Traverse City. The respect he’s earned from the racing commu nity was on full display after his last race in February in Lincoln, Michigan. “They had a big soiree for me. I was surprised and didn’t expect it at all. I kind of choked up a bit, more than I expected,” says JJ. “I will never forget that – MIRA is a family scene.”

As he hit his teens, he saved up his pay from a summertime job (making about $2 an hour at a bike shop), finally amassing $350 to buy a Yamaha SL 338, “a little twin-cylinder auto-injected great sled.”

In 1980, he bought his first race sled, a “bad chicken” 1976 Yamaha 340 SRX. His first race was in his hometown of Elk Rapids.

“The sportsmen’s club had a little track set up, an oval of groomed snow, and it was just kind of ma and pa,” he says. “They only had like two races a winter and you just anticipated it. I looked forward to those races -- they were the most fun and there was no pressure back then. That little SRX was real reliable and never gave me any trouble. It was awe some. I wanted to do it so bad, even at a small level, to get to see all the other type of race sleds. I just fell in love with racing.”

BIG IMPRESSION JJ still remembers his first time on a snowmobile back in the first grade. “A family friend had a small sled and took us all for a ride in the field. It was a new novelty thing. He put me in front of him and the motor was right in the front of us. Once we got going it was good, and I knew I didn’t want to stop doing it.”

“That year we had a big blizzard and mountains of snow and I got to ride that thing all around,” JJ recalls. “I rode around our sub like it was a big racing oval. I was like a wild idiot thinking I was at the I500.”

Through the decades, JJ has never lost his fasci nation with the ever-improving technology. “There is always some innovator that puts them a little ahead of the game,” he says. “Manufacturers in the ‘70s were making incredible advances. Arctic Cat, Yama ha, Polaris and Ski-Doo all started building high-tech equipment that would really go fast and had a lot of power. Until the mid-‘70s, they had more power than

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 27 continued on page 28

Safety equipment, too, has come a long way in JJ’s time. “I remember just wearing open-faced helmets and a pair of goggles. I got frostbite at a couple of races.” That’s not all he got. JJ can’t even count the number of bones he’s bruised, dislocated or broken during his racing career. In 2017 or 2018, he was caught in a chain reaction crash at Eagle River. “Three of us sailed into hay bales. My leg hurt a little bit but when they opened my suit and got my boot off, they saw that it was torn open,” he says. “The EMT guy said, ‘quit moving your leg, we can see your muscle.’” Nearly 40 stitches got JJ back on the sled. But later that same season at a non-points race in Gladwin, disaster struck. “I was racing a new sled we had built and the steering post came apart on me. I probably could have rode it out but my body hit a hay bale in the corner and it peeled me off the sled,” JJ says. “I was tumbling and there was not much snow, so there was nothing to cushion me. I actually thought to tuck to protect myself.” He ended up with five broken ribs, a broken sternum, a broken shoulder, a compression fracture in his back –and the icing on the cake, a broken pinkie. What went through his mind as he lay in a Gladwin Hospital bed for four days? “At first you are like, ‘oh jeez, this is crazy.’ Then my mind calmed down from the initial shock of it all and this voice in my head said, ‘you’re not done.’ I didn’t want to walk away like that.” TEAM EFFORT JJ is quick to point out that while he may be on the only one on the sled, he’s got a team behind him making it all possible. “Until 1989 I was kinda doing it on my own but after I got married [to Joan, in 1988] I

they did handling. It was a point-and-shoot kind of thing – you pointed down the straightaway and went. The tracks were made of snow and sawdust and ice.”

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continued from page 27 started hanging out with really good fabricators named Paul and Todd Barrett. Todd got domesticated by a woman, but Paul has been racing with me since. We also had [the late] Nick Leone on our team. Now it’s just Paul and I and we’re called Longton Barrett Racing. Paul said, ‘you’re the racer, just call it Longton,’ but I said, ‘you are as much a part of it as me.’ Without those guys help ing me I wouldn’t have raced as long or had the success I had.”Infact,

In fact, JJ says he finds he’s even driving his car more slowly these days, noticing things that he used to just zoom right past.

Watching from the pit won’t be easy, he admits. “I would love to keep racing – I love getting on the sled and the sound of it and the feel of it. But I don’t have to prove I am still the bad chicken of the racetrack. And my family has been after me for a long time to retire, especially after my big accident.”

JJ used Paul’s business, Barrett’s Auto & Marine Interiors in Traverse City, as his racing headquarters.

— PAUL BARRETT

“I find myself driving like an old man. I look around and say to myself, ‘why did I never see that before?’” he says. “What do they call it, slowing down to smell the roses?” • on the cover “JJ is probably the most giving racer I have ever met. He loved to see other people do well, too.”

Paul Barrett says he knew right away that he wanted to team up with JJ. “I saw early on in him a phenomenal, natural talent,” he says. “I am really good at fabricating and building stuff but only an okay driver. So it was a match made in heaven.”

28 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

This winter will find JJ, and probably Paul too, working as crewmembers for a local Traverse City enduro team called R and K Racing on Sundays. On Saturdays, they’ll be in the pit for Haven Bouverette, the young sledder who is causing quite a stir on the circuit. “Haven is quite the racer,” says JJ. “She’s not scared to get out there it mix it up with the boys.”

“Every Tuesday night was race night – we’d pull the sleds and get to work on them.”

Paul has fond memories of their scrappy little team, one of MIRA’s longest-running that handily took on the big boys with their lucrative sponsorships. “In our early years Bob Benner and Larry Williams helped us out,” Paul says, “and Dave Wall probably helped us the most.” JJ adds, “And a husband-and-wife team named Larry ‘Lars’ and Michelle Couturier were a big help too.” JJ and Paul are quick to pay it forward with their fellow racers. “We wanted to beat people fair, not be one of those top-secret teams that keeps everything under tarps,” Paul says. “JJ is probably the most giving racer I have ever met. He loved to see other people do well, too. Our trailer was always open and if you needed a part, we were more than willing to give it to you.”Finer with Age JJ only improved as time ticked by, Paul says. “The last five or six years are probably some of the best driving Jeff has ever done. The level of competition has stepped up immensely and he answered the call, put ting a whooping on the 18-year-olds. He got a lot more patient and that won him a lot of races.”

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Arrowheads and one Dubie. Looks like the trails will be kept in great shape this winter.As for the Trail situation, Martin noted that the stretch between the Soo and Kinross has improved greatly. They have fixed most of the problems in that area. As you may recall, there was a photo that went viral a couple years ago featuring an SSA groomer sunk in that area. Then, there are a couple of culvert projects. Which, if they work out, should go un-noticed by most sledders. And, a reroute in the Raco area. Moving a bit of Trail just a bit. Maybe this year. Probably next Anyhow,year.as of June, the SSA is looking good. Good membership. Good leadership. And, a good plan to keep the Trails groomed and open. Also, they keep remembering the Number One Rule: When you have a summer picnic, you have to invite the reporter. Thanks again guys. As always… What Martin said, “Good food. Good fun. Good comradery.”

Alexa Peterman & Grandfather, Al Cottle shar a moment over Smores. Yum Yum. HEARST.qxp_HEARST 8/26/19 11:47 AM Page 11 We sell a full line of Accessories, Clothing, Helmets, and Boots C A M O T O R S I N C . 906-632-6651 Sales, Service & Accessories Mon. -

HEARST.qxp_HEARST 8/26/19 11:47 AM Page 11 September, 2019 - MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER 11

Arrowheads and one Dubie. Looks the trails will be kept in great shape this winter.As for the Trail situation, Martin noted that the stretch between the Soo and Kinross has improved greatly. They have fixed most of the problems in that area. As you may recall, there was a photo that went viral a couple years ago featuring an SSA groomer sunk in that area. Then, there are a couple of culvert projects. Which, if they work out, should go un-noticed by most sledders. And, a reroute in the Raco area. Moving a bit of Trail just a bit. Maybe this year. Probably next Anyhow,year.as of June, the SSA is looking good. Good membership. Good leadership. And, a good plan to keep the Trails groomed and open. Also, they keep remembering the Number One Rule: When you have a summer picnic, you have to invite the reporter. Thanks again guys. As always… What Martin said, “Good food. Good fun. Good comradery.” Fri 8:00 - 5:30 9:00 - 1:00 S. M-129 - Fri 8:00 - 5:30 Sat. 9:00 - 1:00 S. Mi 49783

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MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 29 SAULT STE MARIE 1•800•647•2858www.saultstemarie.com ride streetstrailsthewatchtherace& Book Your Rooms Early for the 54th Annual I-500, Feburary 4, 2023 Chippewa Motors Inc. Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm 3107 S. M-129 Sault Ste Marie, MI 49783 September, 2019 - MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER C H I PP E W A M O T O R S I N C 906-632-6651 Sales, Service & Accessories Mon. - Fri 8:00 - 5:30 ~ Sat. 9:00 - 1:00 3107 S. M-129 ~ Sault Ste Marie, Mi 49783 ~ www.chippewamotors.com We sell Aluma, Sport Haven & Midsota Trailers 1-906-632-60003525I-75BusinessSpurSaultSainteMarie,MIwww.super8.com J o u r n e y O n w a r Heated Whirlpool/SaunaPool~ WiFi Complimentary Breakfast Close SnowmobiletoTrails

C H I PP E W A M O T O R S I N C 906-632-6651 Sales, Service & Accessories Mon. - Fri 8:00 - 5:30 ~ Sat. 9:00 - 1:00 3107 S. M-129 ~ Sault Ste Marie, Mi 49783 ~ www.chippewamotors.com We sell Aluma, Sport Haven & Midsota Trailers

Alexa Peterman & Grandfather, Al Cottle shar a moment over Smores. Yum Yum.

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30 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV W hen do people start thinking about the SOO I-500? The answer is simple. Immedi ately the morning after the race is completed, in other words the first Sunday in Feb. This holds true for all who religiously follow and support the spectacle known as the “ GrandDad dy” of all snowmobile rac es. This holds true for race fans, drivers & teams, race officials, those who have the I-500 on their bucket list and yes.... the I-500 Board of Directors as well. There are two common denominators which ties all the above categories to gether with a tight bond that makes the SOO I-500 a success each year. “An ticipation “ and “ Excite ment “. The 5 - P’s are the driving force behind mak ing the I-500 successful for everyone considerrecommendedinvolved. It’sthatyouutilizing them when planning to attend the race each year. In the world of winter sports enthusiasts these 5 - P’s are: “PROPER, PLAN NING, PREVENTS, otherandtotime. So,memoriesaningbePERFORMANCE”. YouPOOR,canassured,properplanwillmakeyourvisitsuccessthatproducesthat’lllastalifeplanaccordinglyexperienceanticipationexcitementunlikeanyeventworldwide. It’s All Left Turns From Here The I-500 BY RIC FEDERAU CONTRIBUTING WRITER dept headthe finish line | race day

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 31

MANISTIQUE Call (906) 341-6021 201 Chippewa Ave. Manistique, MI 49854 Located just off trail 2 Home of the BIG “C” Clydes Colossal 3/4 lb. Fresh Ground Beef Hamburger ClydesDrive-in VISIT COUNTYROSCOMMONWITHITS: Over 200 miles groomed snowmobile trails Trailhead Parking • Free Trail Maps Gas • Food • Lodging Houghton Lake Roscommon • St. Helen GO TO: VisitHoughtonLake.com for trail conditions and upcoming events HOUGHTON LAKE AREA TOURISM BUREAU Toll Free 800-676-5330 HOUGHTON LAKE

Let’s back off the throt tle a bit and take a light lap around the track to gether taking into consid eration a few interesting facts that have made the SOO I-500 a winter sports enthusiasts destination. Howvacationmuch do you really know about the world’s longest, fastest and toughest snowmobile endurance race? Well... start your engines, get roll’n and share some facts and I-500 informa tion. After all... it’s antic ipation and excitement that gets your motor tuned UP for this spectacle. We’re drop’n the green flag now... let’s roll! It doesn’t matter which of the above catego ries you may find yourself a part of, we all must plan accordingly in advance to make the SOO I-500 experience that lifetime memory we hold on to. As a vacation destination each year, the SOO I-500 prides itself on putting together a week-long series of events. DID YOU KNOW?... 70% of ALL registered snowmobiles in Michigan are trailered north for some of the best riding anywhere. The I-500 mission is to give winter sports enthusiasts a show that has something for everyone. Putting on a week-long series of events takes a lot of advance planning as one might imagine. DID YOU KNOW?... The SOO I-500 is the only professional race project that is made of community volunteers? For over fiftythree years the SOO I-500 has been totally run and managed by volunteers. That’s unheard of within the professional sports racing arena. The volunteerism at the SOO goes back deep into the archives of dedicated people who share family history of participation. Theirvolunteer efforts have become a tradition and it’s what makes the I-500 possible each year. Volunteers from the U.S. and Canada have pulled together to promote continued on page 32

32 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

continued from page 31 the finish line | race day the sport of oval ice racing. Every aspect of the I-500 week-long series of events is designed to provide excitement for all ages. Should YOU ever meet and speak with a I-500 volunteer be sure to thank them for their continued efforts and dedication to the sport in general. Their unselfish efforts of volunteerism has earned the title in the State of Michigan’s “Who’s - who” within the winter sports arena. The title is known as “ Michigan’s Premier Winter Sporting Event “ bestowed upon the project by Michigan legislators. Thanks to a total volunteer commitment, a strong fan base, unwavered community support and good project management over five decades, the SOO I-500 has held its own within the ranks of professional racing bar none! Fact is... Once you’ve experienced the I-500 and its weeklong series of events, there’s a good chance you’ll be back for another exciting experience that you’re sure to share with others. As us “ I-500 Junkies” say....” Once you’re caught UP in the I-500 web, you’re trapped so enjoy the ride. “ By the way...You’ll be hard pressed to find better hospitality than what you’ll receive while visiting the SOO and I-500 event. But let me remind you once again, it takes proper planning. Regardless of what you plan on doing to attend the I-500 you MUST plan in advance. DID YOU KNOW?... Lodging for future I-500 race weeks commences immediately following the completion of the race each year. We mean.. the same night as the race! That’s right! Loding for the I-500 is a hot-topic and needs to be addressed as soon as possible for the next race. We suggest utilizing the 5 - P‘s theory. Let’s take a brief pit stop and mention a few of our 2023 weeklong series of events. Each day during race week various events are held that make up our week-long schedule. Each event is planned in advance to offer you something different each day leading up to the main I-500 race. The race historically is run the first Saturday in Feb. each year. A single admission allows you to access all daily events through out race week. One of the project’s main objectives is to bond the local community with fans and race teams alike. Therefore, let’s take a closer

continued on page 34 look at such happenings. Opening day of race week has been declared by city officials as “ Bud Clarke” day. Bud was a dedi cated volunteer who’s volunteer efforts touched everyone involved for de cades. Hence, the title for opening day of race week will forever be known as “ Bud Clarke day”. This day marks the time when race teams commence arriving for their week-long stay. Once teams arrive and are placed in their position within the infield pit area, our race officials and tech crew will com mence procedures for race time trials to begin. Time trials are certainly a spectacle as well you’re certainly going to enjoy all the prep, speed and an ticipation these teams are putting on display getting ready for the “GrandDad dy” on AnotherSaturday.aspect of race week is the I-500 mid-week races! Host ed Wed. and Thursday race week. These races provide spectators with a sneak preview for what lies ahead. DID YOU KNOW?... It takes over a million and a half gal lons of water to build the world’s ONLY mile oval ice track here at Sault Ste. Marie. It’s the ONLY mile oval ice track in North America. It’s the one everyone wants to win! Water is distributed by semi-tractor trailers which hold 5,000. to 8,000 gallons of water. Water ing the track commences as soon as the ground is frozen and packed. Vol unteers put down water around the clock leading up to the main event. As you can imagine, the track is smooth and flat. This allows the I-500 to let the public ice-skate on it one night during race week. Can you imagine ice-skating on the world’s largest ice rink? There’s no charge for skating and it’s a family involvement enjoyed by hundreds each year. Fun for the wholeAnotherfamily!unique family involvement is the famous I-500 Kids Mini-Z race. This is a great event for youth involvement. The I-500 builds a special track for little kids to race on. Our main event track officials officiate this outstanding event. It’s hosted under the lights and trophies are provided for all participants. It’s simply a great youth event and has actually become a “feeder system” for our main I-500 race over the decades.It’ssomething you’ll want to see and.... you can enter your chil dren. Visit our site (www.i-500.com)web for

more race,beforepageants. impressiveofTheitaraceoutstandingandisareatthehole3rd.tateraceTuesdayAlso...information.there’smore! OneveningduringweekyoucanspecorparticipateintheannualI-500Corn-tourney. HostedinDreamMakersroomKewadinCasino. Prizesawarded andentryfeeminimal. BringyourpalsignUP! It’sanothereventduringweekthat’sgaininglotofattention. Checkout!DIDYOUKNOW?I-500hostsonethemid-westmostbeautyFridayeveningthemainI-500KewadinCasino A CLEAR MESSAGE. POWERFUL. CLEAN. COMFORTABLE. TWO CHASSIS WIDTHS. www.pistenbullyusa.com 1-888-316-4675 www.rnrtrailers.com ANDANDDIRECTDIRECTFACTORYFACTORYWITHWITHMANYSIZESMANYSIZESOPTIONSOPTIONS High Quality AllHigh Quality All Aluminum TrailersAluminum Trailers made in Michiganmade in Michigan We can make YOUR custom trailer for all seasons! MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 33

“IT’S ALL LEFT TURNS FROM HERE...” •

the finish line | race day

As we approach the finish line of this article, it’s important to once again rec ognize the efforts to make this world class event possible by its volunteer base committed to their passion for hosting the I-500. Their selfless efforts are immea surable in terms of expressing what they’ve done for decades and are continuing to do. The integrity of local people and commercial businesses is obvious in the results experienced by thousands of visitors who keep return ing and bringing others to share in the experience. The gracious Sault Ste. Marie hospitality welcomes visitors into their world in an effort to share experiences with winter sports en thusiasts who embark on the city one week a year. There’s nothing like the SOO I-500 anywhere else in the world and there’s no place in the world with volunteers like the Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan community.

continued from page 33 hosts this outstanding pageant. It’s a Vegas type show displaying a lot of talent and fun for the whole family. There’s no charge to attend and it’s certainly a fun time for all. The pageant has a youth class aka “Junior Miss I-500” as well as a teenage category. This pageant is special as it portrays beauty that is built from within and not simply skin deep. It’s a pageant designed to help young ladies become productive adults. The talent is outstanding and the show is one you won’t want to miss. More information is available for en try on our website at : www.i-500.com DID YOU KNOW?... The SOO I-500 was spawned when a few local SOO guys were sitting in a local restaurant which was located across the street from a auto dealership. The dealer had a 1968 Chevy Camero on display. It happened to be the official pace car of the Indy 500 automobile race. One of the guys said... “ Think we could run a snowmobile 500 miles?” The I-500 was spawned! Becoming the most prestigious snowmobile race in the world, the BIG one, the one all OEM and drivers want to win. The stage was set as the local people and commercial businesses got behind the idea. In the early years the I-500 had triple digit numbers of participants whereby top speeds were in the low to mid 30mph. area. Through the evolution of snow mobile development the OEM are producing race sleds designed around the famous I-500 oval mile. Race teams are now qualifying at speeds in excess of 100 mph. DID YOU KNOW?... There are many teams who try to qualify and do not make the starting grid. Today a full starting grid of I-500 sleds racing is 38. I-500 participants come from throughout the U.S. and Canada. The economic impact is felt throughout the U.P. and as far south as Gaylord, Michigan. The event generates much needed revenue for the whole State of Michigan by enhancing tourism. In addition the I-500 brings out of state corporate exchange to Michigan from major manufactures. It goes with out saying the I-500 is a mainstay in Michigan’s economic base, surviving decades of economic stress. Simply put.... the SOO I-500 is “ Pure-Michigan”.

“Come on UP” and experience thrills that build memories and will keep you coming back for more. Welcome to the “SOO I-500” web, enjoy the ride. But don’t forget your 5-P’s. For more information, visit our website at: www.i-500.com, visit us on I-500 F.B. and instagram.

DAY P P P STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY BY

RACE

36 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

It’s All in the Family

White Star Motorsport Auction is a multi-generation owned auction house known by U.S. and Canadian clients as the “go to” place for quality sports vehicles. business The auctioneer’s voice announces all the sled information as hundreds of buyers sit and wait in anticipation… “It’s a Ski Doo Renegade 600cc with 1623 miles, the motor runs, electric start and reverse, tall windshield, 137” track, and it has a registration, what do ya want to bid ? I have $3000.00 bid, who’d give $3250, now $3500.00 to the bidder on the right bleachers” -- and the bidding continues as buyer’s hands rise in the air, and in just over 1 minute’s time the auctioneer calls out -- “ I have $5250.00 bid, are there any more bids ? SOLD to buyer 329 and thank you for the bids”. The buyer smiles in delight as he anticipates the winter fun awaiting him on his Ski Doo. This scene repeats itself 100’s of times at each of the monthly White Star Motorsport Auctions in Bronson, Michigan. Hundreds of buyers and sellers from 5 states and Canada attend the auctions which are held on the first Saturday of the month during the season.

The White Star Motorsport Auction startBY BRENT WILBER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

GET UP TO 2 YEARS OF COVERAGE† OR A CREDIT OF UP TO $750 ‡ ON PARTS, ACCESSORIES AND APPAREL WITH THE PURCHASE OF SELECT 2023 MODELS LIMITED AVAILABILITY, SPRING CHECK YOURS NOW

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 37 ed operations in 1974, and is now entering it’s 49th year of motorsport auctions at the same location. The White Star is owned and operated by Brent and Ginny Wilber. It is now a 5th generation auction company as Brent’s gramps, Henry Wilber, started the family auction business in 1919 in Bronson. “ We have grandparents, parents, bothers, sisters, cousins, grandkids, in-laws, and life long friends who work at the auctions with us. We are blessed with an excellent staff of people who represent us as they work with the buyers and sellers ” stated co-owner Ginny Wilber. Auctioneer, close friend and right hand man Randy Ludwick is celebrating 50 years working with the Wilber’s at the White Star Auction.

on page

© 2022 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affi liates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc. This offer is valid in the U.S.A. only at participating Ski-Doo and Lynx dealers on new and unused select 2023 model snowmobiles ordered from February 14, 2022, to March 31, 2022. The terms and conditions may vary depending on your state and these subject to termination or change at any time without notice. † Get up to 2 years of coverage on select 2023 models: Eligible units are select new and unused 2023 Ski-Doo and Lynx models. Consumers purchasing an eligible 2023 model are entitled to receive a 12-month BRP limited warranty plus 12 months of B.E.S.T. coverage. The warranty is subject to the exclusions, limitations of liabilities and all other terms and conditions of BRP’s standard limited warranty contract, including without limitation the exclusions of damages caused by abuse, abnormal use or neglect. B.E.S.T. service contract is subject to a $50 deductible on each repair. For complete details, please see the BRP limited warranty and the B.E.S.T. contract at an authorized BRP dealer near you. Offer may not be combined with certain other offers. While quantities last. ‡ Get a credit of up to $750 credit on parts, accessories and apparel with the purchase of select 2023 models: Eligible units are select new and unused 2023 Ski-Doo or Lynx models. Rebate amount depends on the model purchased. Credit valid only on genuine Ski-Doo and Lynx parts, accessories and apparel. The credit applies to the total amount invoiced before taxes and installation fees. Some exclusion may apply. Always consult your snowmobile dealer when selecting a snowmobile for your particular needs and carefully read and pay special attention to your operator’s guide, safety video, safety handbook and safety labeling on your snowmobile. Always ride responsibly and safely and wear appropriate clothing, including a helmet. Please observe applicable laws and regulations. Remember that riding, alcohol and drugs don’t mix. See your authorized BRP dealer for details and visit ski-doo.com or brplynx.com.

Jan 7, Feb 4, Mar 4, Apr 1, May 6, June 3 AUCTION DATES White Star Motorsport 517-369-1153Auctions SNOWMOBILE & YouSNOWMOBILEYouAUCTIONSATVCanBuyOrSell!&ATVAUCTIONSCanBuyOrSell! STEVENS CYCLE SALES INC www.stevenscycle.com989-684-9872 © 2022 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its afﬁliates.

8:00 am Inspection starts 8:30 am $50 buyer cash drawing starts 8:35 am Auction starts on new and used snowmobile and atv parts and accessories, tools, clothing, sporting goods and smaller items.

GET

11:00 am Second auction ring will start selling snowmobiles, atv’s, utv’s, motorcycles, watercraft, trailers, go carts, golf carts, cars, trucks, campers, lawn/garden equipment, and more.

This is a live, on-site auction. Buyers unable to attend in person can enter absentee bids from home on Friday, the day before the auction. Call the 14 acres of free parking, forklifts for loading/ unloading, heated buildings with seating, handicap accessible facility, food on premises. One mile EAST of Bronson, MI on US12.

SELLING FEES: Items over $100.00 is $25 plus 5%. Items less than $100.00 is just 25%. No sale fee is just the $25 fee. Buyer’s and seller’s from 5 states and Canada. Selling here is quick, easy and safe compared to on-line sale issues. Oct 2023: In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc. This offer is valid in the U.S.A. only at participating Ski-Doo and Lynx dealers on new and unused select 2023 model snowmobiles ordered from February 14, 2022, to March 31, 2022. The terms and conditions may vary depending on your state and these offers are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. † Get up to 2 years of coverage on select 2023 models: Eligible units are select new and unused 2023 Ski-Doo and Lynx models. Consumers purchasing an eligible 2023 model are entitled to receive a 12-month BRP limited warranty plus 12 months of B.E.S.T. coverage. The warranty is subject to the exclusions, limitations of liabilities and all other terms and conditions of BRP’s standard limited warranty contract, including without limitation the exclusions of damages caused by abuse, abnormal use or neglect. B.E.S.T. service contract is subject to a $50 deductible on each repair. For complete details, please see the BRP limited warranty and the B.E.S.T. contract at an authorized BRP dealer near you. Offer may not be combined with certain other offers. While quantities last. ‡ Get a credit of up to $750 credit on parts, accessories and apparel with the purchase of select 2023 models: Eligible units are select new and unused 2023 Ski-Doo or Lynx models. Rebate amount depends on the model purchased. Credit valid only on genuine Ski-Doo and Lynx parts, accessories and apparel. The credit applies to the total amount invoiced before taxes and installation fees. Some exclusion may apply. Always consult your snowmobile dealer when selecting a snowmobile for your particular needs and carefully read and pay special attention to your operator’s guide, safety video, safety handbook and safety labeling on your snowmobile. Always ride responsibly and safely and wear appropriate clothing, including a helmet. Please observe applicable laws and regulations. Remember that riding, alcohol and drugs don’t mix. See your authorized BRP dealer for details and visit ski-doo.com or brplynx.com. UP

© 2022 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its afﬁliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc. This offer is valid in the U.S.A. only at participating Ski-Doo on new and unused select 2023 model snowmobiles ordered from February 14, 2022, to March 31, 2022. The terms and conditions may vary depending on your state and these offers are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. coverage on select 2023 models: Eligible units are select new and unused 2023 Ski-Doo and Lynx models. Consumers purchasing an eligible 2023 model are entitled to receive a 12-month BRP limited warranty plus 12 months of B.E.S.T. coverage. The the exclusions, limitations of liabilities and all other terms and conditions of BRP’s standard limited warranty contract, including without limitation the exclusions of damages caused by abuse, abnormal use or neglect. B.E.S.T. service contract is subject on each repair. For complete details, please see the BRP limited warranty and the B.E.S.T. contract at an authorized BRP dealer near you. Offer may not be combined with certain other offers. While quantities last. ‡ Get a credit of up to $750 credit on apparel with the purchase of select 2023 models: Eligible units are select new and unused 2023 Ski-Doo or Lynx models. Rebate amount depends on the model purchased. Credit valid only on genuine Ski-Doo and Lynx parts, accessories and apparel. The credit applies to the total amount invoiced before fees. Some exclusion may apply. Always consult your snowmobile dealer when selecting a snowmobile for your particular needs and carefully read and pay special attention to your operator’s guide, safety video, safety handbook and safety labeling on your snowmobile. Always ride responsibly and safely clothing, including a helmet. Please observe applicable laws and regulations. Remember that riding, alcohol and drugs don’t mix. See your authorized BRP dealer for details and visit ski-doo.com or brplynx.com.

49th YEAR MOTORSPORTOFAUCTIONS 2022:

1, Nov 5, Dec 3

“We have seen many changes over the last 49 years as the motorsport industry has changed” said Brent Wilber, auctioneer and co-owner. “ We started snowmobiling in 1971 and the changes in technology and comfort have been absolutely amazing since we began riding. Now we ride sleds and atv’s that are very comfortable and reliable. These are great sports for families and groups of friends, and life long memories are made every time continued 38

Selling order, inventory pictures, payment terms, buyer’s premium info, directions, hotels, our open consignment dates, and all info is on our website: SNOWMOBILEAUCTION.COM SELLING ITEMS SUCH AS, BUT NOT LIMITED TO: Snowmobiles, atv’s, utv’s, trailers, watercraft, go carts, golf carts, street and dirt bikes, lawn and garden equipment, cars, trucks, campers, all kinds of tools, sporting goods, fishing & hunting andparts-accessories-clothing,snowmobileequipment,&4wheelerallrelateditems.

TO 2 YEARS OF COVERAGE† OR A CREDIT OF UP TO $750 ‡ ON PARTS, ACCESSORIES AND APPAREL WITH THE PURCHASE OF SELECT 2023 MODELS LIMITED AVAILABILITY, SPRING CHECK YOURS NOW

riders get out on the trails. We still ride with our family and friends in the summer and winter months ”. These fun sports get bigger every year. According to the ISMA, there are 1.2 million registered snowmobiles in the USA, 130644 new snowmobiles were sold world wide in 2021/22, snowmobiling alone generates over $30 BIL LION worth of economic activity in North America every year, and when you add in the other outdoor recreation sports activities it generates an estimated $689 BILLION worth of US economic activity. Snowmobilers donate over $3 million for national charities, and the same is true of other groups of recreational riders.

The White Star Motorsport Auction business has also seen changes in the market and auction operations since 1974. “ In the late 1990’s and early 2000’s, we were sell ing between 700 and 900 snowmobiles at each auction. It was amazing ! At that time, the monetary exchange rate with Canada made it profitable for the Canadians to sell in the USA ” Brent explains. “ Then 911 happened, and the world changed for all of us. We continued to have 100’s of sleds, atvs, and trailers at each monthly auction, but the numbers were down to 200 to 400 to be sold at eachAnotherauction.”market change for the White Star Auction is that bidders who can not attend the auctions in person can make absentee bids on any of the items lotted to be sold. The White Star absentee bidding process is sim ple, easy, and honest. Buyers can go on the White Star website at SNOWMOBILEAUCTION.COM and look at the inventory pictures and descriptions, then call the auction office to leave their bids on items they want. “ We let the on-site, in person buyers start the bidding on every item. If we have an absentee bid, we assign an on-site repre sentative for the absentee buyer to bid on their behalf. That representative bids for the absentee buyer and if he can get the item for less than the absentee buyer’s top

boardthe1980’s.DepartmentBranchBrentandasMedicalEmergencyTechnician,wellasastateEMSFireInstructor.workedattheCountySheriffintheHeservedonBronsonschoolandmanyother community groups, and was on the Branch County 9-1-1 Central Dispatch Board for 19 years. Henry Wilber was the mayor of Bronson for 12 years. Garth Wilber is in the National Auctioneer Association and Michigan Auctioneer Association hall of fame. The White Star Auction is truly a family business. Snow City is located on the White Star Auction property and is owned by Scott Wilber, who is the Bronson Fire Department Chief. Scott also works as a contract firefighter in Grayling for the Camp Grayling Military/Grayling fire depart ment. Snow City sells hundreds of new snowmobile tracks across the country each year, and has an extensive inventory of new snowmobile, atv, and utv parts, accessories and clothing. Snow City’s website can be accessed at SNOWCITYMI. COM. The store phone number is 517-369- 2001, and you’ll talk with long time manager Jim Webb.

Committed to the community and outdoor motorized sports Scott wilber

Public service is nothing new for the Wilber’s. Brent was on the Bronson Fire Department for 37 years, 19 of that as Fire Chief. He is also an

business

38 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV continued from page 37

bid price, the absentee buyer only pays the actual bid price. We are very honest and never take advantage of any absentee bidder’s bids. ” Brent said. “ We still believe in old fashioned honesty, smiles, handshakes, and our word is our bond. We cherish our buyers and sellers. We have many customers who have done busi ness with us for decades. We want long term custom ers who come back again and again ”.

“We encourage everyone to join a club and sup port our sports with your time and money. We are commercial members of the Michigan Snowmobile/ ORV Association, as well as the American Council of Snowmobile Associations which is based right here in Michigan. We support our sports, and we look forward to seeing you at the motorsport auctions this season “ Brent concluded. • “We still ride with our family and friends in the summer and winter months.”

FENTON TAKE ON PARTS ACCESSORIES& when you mention this ad. 20%OFF SNOWMOBILES • ATV • UTV LAKE PONEMAH MARINA 3506 SILVER LAKE ROAD FENTON, MI 48430 810.750.8443 SERVICE, PARTS & ACCESSORIES LP-MARINA.COM EPOUFETTE Skyline Motel EASY ACCESS TO TRAILS Direct TV and Showtime • Discount Rates Sunday - Wednesday 906.292.5556 5951 US HWY 2 | EPOUFETTE, MI Evan’s Cut River Store W5954 US-2, NAUBINWAY, MI 49762 SMOKED FISH • BEER • WINE • LIQUOR (906) 292-5517 Located on trail 473 + US 2 CABINS CAMPGROUNDAND OPEN 7 DAYS PER WEEK WWW.CUTRIVERSTORE.COM

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 39

When Covid hit, the auction facility was closed for a year since they have large crowds who attend the auctions inside the buildings. The motorsport auctions started again in April of 2021 and there have been two very noticeable results of covid. “ During covid, peo ple wanted to get out and enjoy the outdoor sports, away from other people. The entire market inventory of all recreational vehicles became scarce as people were buying anything and everything they could find –snowmobiles, atvs, utv,s watercraft, and campers. The short supply of recreational vehicles resulted in prices that went up, due to supply and demand.” Brent con tinues “ We see the inventory supply increasing some, but it is still a tight market. Prices have been strong, and interest in sleds, atvs, utvs, trailers and watercraft remain high. “

“ We explain to sellers that they are much better off placing their recreational items in a competitive bid ding format for the highest price they can get—like our auctions. We tell buyers that it works well for them to buy where there are many items to chose from, they can inspect the items prior to bidding, they can bid whatever amount they want, and there are no hassles with on-line problems. We check every item we sell to be sure there are no stolen items. When people buy at the White Star, the buyers never get stuck with a stolen item, like what happens with some on-line and social media sales sites.” Brent added. The White Star folks always say that the White Star Motorsport Auctions are NOT just an auction. They are an motorsports EVENT. Many people come to see friends, make new friends, reminisce as they see sleds from many years ago, and enjoy being with 100’s of other motorsport enthusiasts.

40 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

That being said, however, regardless of the season, when like-minded recreational enthusiasts get together, the discussions always include tales of snowmobile adventures past, and usually some great expectations for the future. The get together of these snowmobiling fanatics is at the annual International Snowmobile Congress, and whatever the location, the selected facility is filled to maximum capacity. The 2022 event was held during the second week of June at the Grand Harbor Resort in Dubuque, Iowa, and it was a roaring success!

visions for the future. Our road trip proved to be one of the better with plenty of side trips and attractions along the way. Unfortunately, our Canadian counterparts were unable to attend due to continuing travel restrictions. Our planned road trip began with a bright sunny morning on Monday, June 6th, and although we could have made the 433mile drive in a single day, we opted for an overnight stop once we were south of Madison, find a nice restaurant for dinner, and then get a good night’s sleep with an early start on Tuesday. Along the way on Monday, we made a couple of stops for some local shopping and picked up a few trinkets

BY JIM DUKE CONTRIBUTING WRITER conference call Omaha, Nebraska

Snowmobiling!Summer

In keeping with a tradi tion started some 35 years ago when I attended my first Congress, I vowed to make every effort to drive rather than fly and make it an adventure along the way. When possible, my wife Connie would accom pany me, and eventually my daughter Karyn joined the annual sojourn. As much as we enjoy all the activities associated with the Congress, I believe we have enjoyed the road trips to and from those events even more. For the past decade it’s been just Karyn & myself making the trip, but it’s always been a wonderful and memorable experience, and in the pro cess, we have visited, or passed through, just about every Canadian province and at least twenty of our own United States, many more than once, and all in the name of snowmobiling! The only break in the process was the cancellation of the

he title may be a bit misleading, because unless we have that wonderful commodity we usually refer to as “white gold” there really isn’t any way, and that stuff is pretty scarce in the good ole’ summertime!

passionNebraskaweBouncingtionSnowmobiletohostUSAofpandemicoverinSnowmobileInternationalCongress2020duetoconcernsthecoronavirusandtheclosingtheborderbetweentheandCanada.TheforISC-2020wasbetheSaskatchewanAssocia-inthecityofRegina.backin2021,gatheredinOmaha,witharenewedandbrighter

ingedKarynress.projectserremainmoderator/coordinatorscurrentinplaceforanoth-yeartocompletethealreadyinprog-BothBertMillerandHautamakiaccept-theextensionofoffice.Theafternoonmeetwasthefirstoftwo

GRAYLING POINTE NORTH OF GRAYLING MOTEL ••••989-348-5950Truck&TrailerparkingRidefromyourroomNexttoBicycleTrailRefriginrooms•1King Waterbed • HBO • Coffee & Wireless www.pointnorthmotel.cominternet 1024 I-75 Bus. MichiganGrayling,LoopHOST:Adrian Grayling and Crawford County 800-937-8837FREEMaps SENEY Seney Snowmobile Association Striving to provide you with safe & smooth trails. seneysnowmobiling.com Groomer’s Ball February 18, 2023 Snowmobile Vet Ride March 4, 2023 Motorcycle Vet Ride June 3, 2023 Trail Clean Up September 15-16, 2023 Trail report 906-499-3200

continued on page 42 for the folks back home. The motel we selected for our lodging was nice and very clean, but we decided to forego the breakfast there the following morning and stopped later along the way. Once back on US-151 it was pretty smooth sailing, and although we were in no big hurry since we had, what we assumed to be a late check-in at the hotel in Dubuque, and once there we would stay fairly busy for the next few days. As it turned out, we arrived just before noon on Tuesday and found our room was already open, so we got checked in, vehicle unloaded, and then went looking for other early arrivals. The in-house restaurant was a Tony Roma and every meal we were privileged to partake there was beyond fantastic. In fact, we were not disappointed with any of the accommodations or activities during our entireAlthoughstay.the needprogramseveralliked,attendeesaSnowmobileoffirst,hardsuccessfulAssociation,thefrombynoon.aroundcontinuedthewhichraiserActionofpreparationsactivitiesproveduntilcommencementofficialwasn’tThursday,WednesdaytobeafulldayofbeginningwithfortheFriendsSnowmobilingPoliticalCommitteefundandtheactualeventstartedshortlyafternoonluncheonanduntilsomewherefiveintheafterThatwasfollowedtheWelcomeReceptionour2022ISChosts,IowaStateSnowmobileandamoreeventwouldbetofind.Sofinishedthealbeitunofficial,daythe2022InternationalCongress.Thursdaymorningcamebitearlierthanmostwouldhaveanditwasheardfromatthebreakfastthattheywouldtothinkaboutparty

ing less in the evenings and get more rest. Of course, as much as that talk cir culated, everyone knew it would never hold up. After a wonderful breakfast buf fet, the opening ceremony kicked off with presentation of the flags and a beautiful rendition of our national anthem, followed by the Canadian anthem and an official welcome from the mayor of Dubuque. After a short break, it was off to the first of several meetings scheduled throughout the day. At the Joint Mountain & Trails Riding Regions meeting, common con cerns such as trespassing and the loss of trails / off-trail riding areas due to irresponsible behavior or encroachment onto private properties where posted as prohibited. A report on the 2022 Mountain Riding Summit meeting & ride held in February was presented by Bert Miller and the intention to have a similar meeting in 2023 announced. Karyn Hautamaki, Moderator for the Trails Riding Region explained that the ride as scheduled this past win ter was cancelled due to restrictions set by the covid pandemic, but plans are underway to have a ride & meeting, sometime in early February of 2023. Location and actual date have yet to be determined. A motion from the floor the change the title of moderator to coordinator for each of the riding regions was accept ed, supported, and passed unanimously. It was also moved that the

42 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV continued from page 41 for the American Council of Snowmobile Associa tions and once a quorum was confirmed, many of the agenda items were discussed, resolved, or assigned to committee for further research prior to final actions. Of primary interest was the presentation of the proposed budget for the ensuing year and which line items could be reasonably reduced without cutting quality of the projects involved. Once all ques tions had been answered, a motion with support to accept it as presented was met with a unanimous vote by the delegates present. First phase of nominations commenced for the officer positions with each of the incumbents being nominated. After a second call for further nominations and hearing none, the nominations were suspended until Saturday’s meeting when the final call and vote would be completed.By4:15PM Thursday afternoon, most meetings were done for the day and attendees were looking for ward to the off-site activities scheduled for the evening. Those previously signed up for the VIP event were permitted to board the first bus with a commemorative travel mug from Tucker SnKat of their favorite libation for the trip to the location where the movie “Field of Dreams” was filmed, and the opportunity to tour the buildings, ball field, and even play a game with the “ghost team” that was present at this very popular tourist attraction. The site closed to the public at 6:00 o’clock and the Congress attendees had exclusive access. We were given cou pons in the form of monopoly money to purchase our choice of foods, drinks, and mementos from the various food trucks and gift shops on-site. This was truly an evening activity to remem ber and was talked about throughout the remainder of theTheweek.Friday morning breakfast was as bountiful as the day before and was ready promptly at 7:00AM as scheduled, followed by another morning program. This day’s speaker was Mr. Ed Klim, President of the International dealersandtheofroomvisitrietyopportunityofingoutbileBrigade,Organizations,Counciltionsfoundation.snowmobilingtionexperiencedeconomicindicatesthetion.timesantions,manHavingManufacturersSnowmobileAssociation.heardthisgentlespeakatotherfuncwewereassuredofinformativeandsomehumorouspresentaThecurrent“StateofIndustry”aspresentedthatdespitethestrugglesbeingacrossthenaandaroundtheworld,isonafirmManyoftheorganizasuchastheCanadianofSnowmobiletheIronDogandtheSnowmoAdministratorsheadedtotheirrespectivemeetspaceswhiletheresttheattendeeshadthetoattendavaofbreakoutsessions,theSilentAuctiontobidonanumbergreatitems,ortakeinTradeShowtomeetdiscussconcernswith&manufacturers conference call GRAND MARAIS N 14260 LAKE AVE • GRAND MARAIS, MI CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK 906-494-2111 JUST OFF THE TRAIL BURGERS, PIZZA AND 11 BEERS ON TAP FRIDAY FISH FRY DAILY SPECIALS! Cozy Cabins & Cottages on Lake SuperiorSUNSETGCABINS rand Marais, Michigan catoftheeveningwasdedi-plained.Theremaindersnowmobileprogramex-edtosocializingandnetworking,withsponsorclubsmeetingface-to-facewithDNRcontactsfortheirareasandsur-roundingzonesorhav-ingsomepersonaltimetodiscusspeculiaritiesoftheirparticularbrands.Asusual,theresortstaffwasonhandtoprovideexcellentservicewith outthevariousbrandsofthecurrentlisteligiblefordees,mostlythoseonofthem.Severalatten-tunitytoattendeachoneeveryonehadanoppor-outswererepeatedsoAfterlunch,thebreak-startedafterbreakfast.equipmentreplace-ments,wereanxioustogetoutsideandchecktractorsandothergroominggear.Amongtheseveral westoftrail8EastofGrandMaraisOnetosixbedroomcabinsonLakeSuperiorLocated11/2milesOnemiletothe 906-494-2693 sunset3@jamadots.comsunsetcabinsmi.net CheckusoutfacebookJUSTOFFTHETRAILBurgers,Pizza11BeersonTapFriday’sFishFry SPENDTIMEINGRANDMARAISTHISWINTER! ThebigRedPistenBullyondisplay,andRepstoanswerquesgmsccw@gmail.com 906-287-0001 sunsetcabins222@gmail.com sunsetcabinsmi.net LOCATED 1.5 MILES EAST OFMARAISGRAND 1 MILE WEST OF TRAIL 8 TWIN LAKES Best Pasties in the Copper Country!Corner of M26 and Emily Lake Rd. acrossTrailfrom3 Rec Fuel • Gas • Oil • DNR permits Homemade Pasties • Breakfast Fresh Bakery • Groceries • Liquor & Beer Open daily 7am - 9pm Pasty Hot Line 906.288.3888 32260 State Highway M-26, Twin Lakes, MI We are the general store and so much more! MASS CITY/ROUSSEAU It’s Never Too Far To The Rousseau Bar 26137 Dishneau Road, Mass City, MI 49948 Snowmobile Trail 12 – ORV East Connector Route www.facebook.com/RousseauBar Full Menu ~ Call about our rentals ~ 906-883-9952

positive vote prevailed. At 2:45pm many attend ees listened to the Groomer Roundtable discussions or attended the panel discus sions on “Why Do People Trespass and How Do We Protect Our Access?” Both afternoon sessions were quite interesting and infor mative, but with the con stant threat of trails loss due to trespassing, the panel discussion meeting room was standing room only, and the panel still answer ing questions and accept ing suggestions long after time had run out and time to prepare for the evening’s activities of receptions, first the Groomer Reception, scheduled from 5pm until 8pm followed by the ISC 2023 Host Reception from 8pm until 11pm.

The three hours sched uled for the Groomer recep tion passed quicker than anyone would have liked, but the final reception of the evening was waiting with plenty more fun & games, and a preview of what we could expect at next year’s Congress, which by the way will be held at the inWyndham/RadissonluxuriousHotelMoline,Illinois,June8th–OR EMAIL

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continued on page 44 of all sorts of snowmobile related equipment, gear, andAfterapparel.lunch, the afternoon was taken up with Chapter meetings as well as the councils for media and tour ism. For those of us from the Great Lakes States and northern plains, it was the Midwestern Chapter meet ing during which the pro posal to follow the Western Chapters lead and dissolve the chapter was revisited, with plenty of discussion. It is worth noting that all chapters were discontinued within the American Council of Snowmobile Associa tions several years ago but had yet to be removed from the International Snow mobile Council’s bylaws & charter. It was determined by a unanimous vote of the delegates to dissolve the chapter and once all debts and other expenses were paid, to redistribute any remaining funds per Article IX, Section 1 of the chapter bylaws.TheSecretary/TreasurerstatedthatthefundsremainingcouldmakeasizeabledonationtoboththeACSALegalDefensefundandtotheInternationalSnowmobileHallofFameforsponsorshipoftheInternationalSnowmobileCluboftheYearawardalongwithWoody’s,theAmericanCouncilofSnowmobileAssociations,andtheInternationalSnowmobileCouncil.TheMidwestChapteralsohasbeenasponsoroftheInternationalSnowmobileDealershipaward,alsowithACSA,ISC,andSnowGoerMagazine.Amotiontomoveforwardwithcontributionstothoseentitiesnotedabovewithseveraldelegatesrenderingsupport,andaunanimous

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The several members of the Iron Dog Brigade had to cut their presence at the groomer reception short in order to attend their annual banquet, elect new officers, and initiate new “pups” into their midst. For those not familiar with the Iron Dog Brigade, it is a honorary society dedicated to the fun of snowmobiling, and for snowmobilers who have made some significant con tribution to the sport over the years, and membership is by invitation only and lim ited to just 130 members.

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attendeesanadjourned.5:15pm,banquethourtoandoutandTourismInternationalMediaInternationalAdministratorsAssociation(CCSO);SnowmobiletheAssociationsSnowmobile(ACSA);CanadianCouncilofOrganizationstheInternationalofSnowmobile(IASA);theSnowmobileCouncil(ISMC);theSnowmobileCouncil(ISTC);theIronDogBrigade.WitharemindertocheckwhattheTradeShowtheSilentAuctionhadoffer,andthatthesocialpriortotheawardswouldbeginatthemeetingwasWithjustoverhourtospare,mostheadedtotheir respective rooms to get ready for the highlight of the event, the awards banquet.Theballroom was beautifully decorated, and the tables spaced for adequate passage between them, and the Michigan table was perfectly located in the front row left of the podium, and perfect for getting photos of the award recipients. Breaking from the usual traditional plated dinner, the host committee elected to go with a buffet and allow everyone to select their entry(s) of choice as well as the side dishes. Other than the grumbling of a few on inconvenience of standing in another line, I personally feel this was an outstanding decision, and the prime rib was done to perfection. I was told the Cordon-bleu and other entrées were also. With the time for dinner over and just a few lingering with coffee, it was time to reveal those being recognized and present the awards. Although there were no award recipients from our own great state, I know there are many individuals, clubs, and groomer operators that would have certainly been eligible had they just been nominated and submitted. Those recognized were most worthy of the honors, however, and I’m proud to say most are great friends and contributionaanofTheacquaintances.firstpresentationtheeveningwasn’tawardassuch,butone-thousand-dollartoeachof the national organizations from the Thirsty Dogs administrators Joann Smith and Marlys Knutson This group is a gathering like none other, and touts an untold number of members. A strictly charitable group, they can’t really be called a club, they hold only one late night gathering per year, have no bylaws, no agenda, and no election of officers. In fact, their president is a droopyeared basset hound named Dudley, and before anyone gets the wrong impression, their name doesn’t imply a thirst for beverages, but rather a thirst for knowledge.The first actual award was the Iron Dog Brigade’s Distinguished Service presentation, previously known as the George Eisenhuth award, and the recipient foe 2022 was

44 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

10th , Another2023.early wake-up came Saturday morning for the final day of this Congress, and a busy day it was, beginning with a great breakfast buffet sponsored by our own Michigan Snowmobile & ORV Association, more commonly known simply as MISORVA. The morning program highlight was an inspirational address titled “Overcoming Adversity” by Arron Thomas which brought tears to many eyes in the audience and ended right at the scheduled time.

The afternoon meeting of the International Snowmobile Council was the congress wrap-up session with a report from each of the entities that is an integral part of the council, including the American Council of

With only a few minutes for a quick comfort break, everyone headed off to their appointed meetings, and for most of us it was the second of the ACSA meetings where the unfinished items on the agenda were completed and final nominations for the 2023 officer posts was called.

LEFT: Ed Klim, President of the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association offered a State of the Industry presentation at the Friday morning breakfast program.

CENTER: The 2023 ISC host representatives Jane Austin & Suzie Giese offers a brief summary of what we can expect at next year’s event in Moline, Illinois.

RIGHT: Saturday morning guest speaker Aaron Thomas discussed overcoming adversity.

continued from page 43

Affiliate Delegate, Karyn Hautamaki (MI). With elections completed, ACSA Executive Director Christine Jourdain said with this reelected corps of officers, the council was in good and capable hands, and would continue to serve the snowmobiling community in every possible way.

Those elected to lead the Council for the ensuing year were all incumbents with Dan Long (IL) President; Bert Miller (WY) Vice President; and Len Neisler (IN) alsoChrisBrianBothSecretary/Treasurer.Delegates-at-Large,Erickson(SD)andWilley(OH)werereelected,aswasthe

tothat9th,for764-1000phoneIllinois1415Commons.ResortWyndham/RadissoninCongress.sentativestationflagswasSnowmobileInternationalCongresstheretiringoftheandabriefpresentothehostrepreforthe2023ThateventwillbeheldMoline,IllinoisattheontheJohnDeereTheaddressisRiverDrive,Moline,61265.Thedirectnumberis(309)andthedatesthiseventisJune8th,&10thofnextyear.Forthoseenthusiastsalwayslookforwardthefirstsnowsand

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By Andy Twork You know when the snow begins to melt and the green grass starts to be a nuisance to the point where you need to cut it every week, the snowmobiling season is over.The work for the season is not over, preventative maintenance has to be done on all the equipment and stored under cover for the next few months, resting, waiting for the upcoming season.The equipment is the easy part, but the people need to have that one weekend each year when all of our volunteers and groomers get together at a local establishment. They let off a little steam and have a fine evening of food and drink and fellowship. The West Shore Snowmobile council has been having a Spring fling dance every year for as long as I can remember. This year was no different, the only differenc e this year was the venue, the Spring fling for 2019 would be held at the Veterans of Foreign wars post on Colby street in Whitehall.Theevening began with a period of fellowship time for stories and laughs from the previous season. Whether it be getting a groomer stuck or being broke down or perhaps having a fine time out on a snowmobiling adventure, either on our trails on the West shore or on trails elsewhere in our great state of Michigan.Theringleader,

The West Shore Snowmobile council has been having a Spring fling dance every year for as long as I can remember. This year was no different, the only differenc e this year was the venue, the Spring fling for 2019 would be held at the Veterans of Foreign wars post on Colby street in Whitehall.Theevening began with a period of fellowship time for stories and laughs from the previous season. Whether it be getting a groomer stuck or being broke down or perhaps having a fine time out on a snowmobiling adventure, either on our trails on the West shore or on trails elsewhere in our great state of Michigan.Theringleader, Brian Vanett kicked off the evening along with Oscar Reed by recognizing the trail captains from the different areas in our system. Then on to a wonderful dinner including the salad along with a steak and baked potato, and served right to yourSnowmobilerstable. from all over the area as well as other parts of our state ventured to Whitehall that evening to partake of this wonderful event.

can’t wait to get out on the trails, there are hundreds of like-minded folks that think snowmobiling all year long and devote countless hours attending these events, discussing the best way to improve on the programs already being administered to make all those winter activities safer and more enjoyable for all. To witness firsthand what goes into having a successful snow mobile system, come join us, enjoy the camaraderie, and have tons if fun along the way. That’s summer snowmobiling! • 231.861.2442HARDWARE

Chris Gamache of Polaris Ride Command, presented by the out-going Iron Dog President Bob King. The podium was then turned over to the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations to make the series of awards presentation to their members, clubs, and councils. As for the 2022 Ameri can Council of Snowmo bile Associations awards, the dealer of the year went to Trailside located across from the famous derby track in Eagle River, Wisconsin. And the club of the year went to the Sno-Bandits of Rome, Wisconsin. But the most coveted of national recognitions, the Snow mobiler of the Year award was presented to Bill Brown from Utica, Illinois. Having known Bill for many years and shared many a story over the years, I can truly say this gentleman is most deserving of this honor. Bill has done it all over the years, serving as a Vice President in the state association, a snowmo bile safety instructor and trail boss, but mostly, as a true ambassador for snowmobiling.Thefinalofficial activity of the 53rd

p VELTMAN231-861-2442HARDWARE Call or Email us to advertise in this space @ Skinner Park - Irons, MI Jan. 4, 2020 @ironsarea.com IRONS AREA ASSOCIATIONTOURIST ARKET” VISIT IRONS AREA THIS WINTER!!! Westshore Spring Dinner Dance Trail Boss Brian Vanette awards Randy Ackerberg a kind of a "Snowmobiler of the year award" for his efforts in the council this past year 22 MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER - September, 2019

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2022 | 45

On the Hart-Montague Trail 4736 1st Street | New Era, Michigan By Andy Twork You know when the snow begins to melt and the green grass starts to be a nuisance to the point where you need to cut it every week, the snowmobiling season is over.The work for the season is not over, preventative maintenance has to be done on all the equipment and stored under cover for the next few months, resting, waiting for the upcoming season.The equipment is the easy part, but the people need to have that one weekend each year when all of our volunteers and groomers get together at a local establishment. They let off a little steam and have a fine evening of food and drink and fellowship.

The ACSA Executive Committee for 2022-2023 (L-R) Dan Long, President; Chris Willey, Delegate-at-Large; Brian Erickson, Delegate-atLarge; Christine Jourdain, Executive Director; Scott Herzog, Past President; Len Neisler, Secretary/Treasurer; & Bert Miller, Vice President.

WHITE LAKE WHITE PINE SNOWMOBILE & ORV PARTS & SERVICE TRAIL PERMITS VELTMAN

Brian Vanett kicked off the evening along with Oscar Reed by recognizing the trail captains from the different areas in our system. Then on to a wonderful dinner including the salad along with a steak and baked potato, and served right to yourSnowmobilerstable. from all over the area as well as other parts of our state ventured to Whitehall that evening to partake of this wonderful event. Brian made a point to bring up the fact that many volunteers do many different things. Some volunteers do great things for the clubs by obtaining the materials that they need to repair bridges or perhaps put in a drainage ditch. Or one of many other tasks that need to happen in order to keep our land owners satisfied as well as getting our trails put in, in a safe manner. Lead groomer driver Steve Bell was recognized for the tireless efforts that he exerts each and every year in his many hours of grooming. He is still enjoying our snowmobile trails even though hes not able to ride anymore himself. Whitehall and Montague are towns that support snowmobiling as well as businesses and contractors that donate their time and materials. As in many cases the efforts of their employees in making sure that our trails are maintained as well as kept safe and safely marked throughout our trail system. Our dining group was well impressed with how the tables were set up as the double tables with chairs all the way around them aloud for communication without being limited to just talking to a couple of people. Our group included Randy Smith, Jamie Bishop as well as Dan and Robin Taylor and Cheryl Alvesteffer. And of course our favorite girl Carla Buchan out on an evening dinner with us, since Tom was gone trout fishing. It was truly a great evening of food and drink along with some great fellowship with family and friends.

These are the people from the many clubs that form the West Shore Snowmobile Council, and it is because of them Muskegon, Newaygo and Oceana county has a trail system tha t they can truly be proud of. p

Brian made a point to bring up the fact that many volunteers do many different things. Some volunteers do great things for the clubs by obtaining the materials that they need to repair bridges or perhaps put in a drainage ditch. Or one of many other tasks that need to happen in order to keep our land owners satisfied as well as getting our trails put in, in a safe manner. Lead groomer driver Steve Bell was recognized for the tireless efforts that he exerts each and every year in his many hours of grooming. He is still enjoying our snowmobile trails even though hes not able to ride anymore himself. Whitehall and Montague are towns that support snowmobiling as well as businesses and contractors that donate their time and materials.

As in many cases the efforts of their employees in making sure that our trails are maintained as well as kept safe and safely marked throughout our trail system. Our dining group was well impressed with how the tables were set up as the double tables with chairs all the way around them aloud for communication without being limited to just talking to a couple of people. Our group included Randy Smith, Jamie Bishop as well as Dan and Robin Taylor and Phil and Cheryl Alvesteffer. And of course our favorite girl Carla Buchan out on an evening dinner with us, since Tom was gone trout fishing. It was truly a great evening of food and drink along with some great fellowship with family and friends. These are the people from the many clubs that form the West Shore Snowmobile Council, and it is because of them Muskegon, Newaygo and Oceana county has a trail system tha t they can truly be proud of.

46 | SEPTEMBER • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV CLASSIFIEDS Worlds Largest in Used Snow Parts All Years, Makes & Models New Parts, Tracks, Slides, Carbides, Studs, Cranks,Pistons,Helmets,Gaskets,A-arms,RebuiltEnginesandReplatedCylindersinStock 802-487-1000 AlsSnowmobile.comATVparts.com September,2019-MICHIGANSNOWMOBILER31 DealerListingTheSnoShopper ❄ DEADLINE: 5thofmonthprecedingpublication. •P.O.Box417•EastJordan,MI49727•231-536-2371 WorldsLargestinUsedSnowParts AlsSnowmobile.com ATVt 802-487-1000 USED SNOWMOBILE PARTS Road-Amherst,OHB&KMotorsportsWESHIPDAILY1970to201512576Vermilion44001440-965-4912 SNOWMOBILE CLOTHING snowcitymi.comHugeselectionGreatPricesLowestpricesonCAMSOTracks 517-369-2001 THINK SNOW www.snowmobilecylinders.comECKHOFF’SBurnedDown? Call us ﬁrst and save! ExchangeCylinderProgram Arctic Cat - Polaris Ski-Doo - Yamaha Cylinder - Replating, Boring, Sleeving Pistons - gaskets, etc... We now stock Pro X pistons Daily UPS shipping! - Quick 320-354-4874Turnaround!Email:eckoffs@tds.net3330Co.Rd.40NENewLondon,MN56273Hours:M-F9-5pm MICHIGAN’S LARGEST CYLINDER517-238-5955EXCHANGE! or 517-238-2828 Re-plated cylinder exchange, cylinder boring, crankshaft and engine rebuilding for all makes and models of snowmobiles, PWC, Outboard and I/O engines, AND acres of salvage machines and parts. Hildebrand Marine and See Doo Clinic 298 South Fremont Road Coldwater, MI outboardjunkyard.com49036 We accept credit card orders by phone. 810.348.1325 SUBSCRIBETODAY! CityANameddress State Zip/Canadian Code Credit Card Number Exp. Date Secur ity Code ONE YEAR SNOWMOBILE / ORV 10 ISSUES $25.00 TWO YEARS SNOWMOBILE / ORV 20 ISSUES $42.00 Canadian subscriptions add $19.00 per year ONE YEAR ORV / 4 ISSUES $10.00 TWO YEARS ORV / 8 ISSUES $17.00 ONE YEAR SNOWMOBILE / 6 ISSUES $15.00 TWO YEARS SNOWMOBILE / 12 ISSSUES $25.00 SEND CHECK OR MONEY ORDER TO: Michigan Snowmobiler & ORV 30600 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 105 | Farmington Hills, MI 48334 or go to www.michsnowmag.com/subscribe 231.536.2371AdvertiseHere!Call

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