www.
Mn US A .org
MnUSA 2025 Fall Workshop October 24-26, 2025
Minneapolis Marriott West 9960 Wayzata Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55426 888-887-1685 www.marriott.com/mspsp Your Hosts: MnUSA Region 8 Clubs
Contacts: Dick Theis 763-350-9351, Terry Hutchinson, 612-581-6627 Nancy Hanson 612-802-9570 We aspire to bring you information that will be helpful and entertaining to you individually and to your club.
Hotel Reservations: Group Room Rate $119+tax (Blocked under “MnUSA Fall Workshop 2025”) Last day to book—Thursday, October 9, 2025. For group rate, please use online reservations — https:// www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1751913366985&key=GRP&app=resvlink Preliminary Schedule of Weekend Events: Friday:
Registration begins at 3 pm Vendors, Reception, Socializing, Snowmobile Safety Instructor Training Saturday: Registration begins at 7 am 9 am MnUSA Annual Meeting Vendors, Seminars, Dinner, Entertainment, Door Prizes (All included in registration fee) Sunday: 9 am MnUSA Board of Directors Meeting Check the MnUSA Region 8 Facebook page for updates www.facebook.com/MnUSA Region 8
LIST OF POTENTIAL SEMINARS
Trail Administrators Roundtable Trail Stops, Fundraising & Other Club Activities First Aid/Stop the Bleed Trip Planning Climate Change RiderX Youth Club Directors Forum Working With Volunteers Club/Trail Insurance & Incident Reporting Enhance Your Social Media Presence Keeping Your Club Current with State & IRS Regulations
Note: Event registration is separate from lodging.
2025 FALL WORKSHOP EVENT REGISTRATION FORM Name(s): __________________________________________________________________________ Your Club/Business Name: ___________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________________ City: _____________________ State:_______ Zip:_______________ Phone:___________________ Email (to confirm registration)_________________________________________________________ Early Bird Event Registration Prices Shown (Add $20 to each registration after 10/7/25) Adult(s) #________ @ $110.00 $____________ Kids 12-17 #________ @ $50.00 $____________ Kids under 12 #________ @ FREE TOTAL $____________ Registrations are transferable but not refundable.
Mail event registration form and payment to: MnUSA Region 8, Inc, 4600 Winnetka Ave N., New Hope, MN 55428
THANK YOU.
September 2025 Contents Minnesota Snowmobiling is the official publication of the Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association (MnUSA). The publication is a benefit of membership in MnUSA ($35 annual membership).
MnUSA Executive Board President Mike Clevenger Vice President Scotty Harder Secretary Janet Widness Treasurer Gordon Heitke Director at Large Scott Wakefield Past Presidents Scott Wakefield, Greg Sorenson, Rod Seibel, Mark Kavanaugh, Gayle Quistgard, Mark Steinmueller, Keith Twombly, Terry Hutchinson, Curt Berg, Harold Brace, Bob Linn, Diane Wallenta, Jeff Mausolf, Bob King, Larry Shepherd, Bill Kullberg, LeRoy Strehlo, Tom Decker, Mary Violett, Allen Eglinton, Al Lalim, Harold Tomkins Minnesota Snowmobiling (ISSN 1085-1054) is published seven times a year for $14 in September, October, November, December, January, February, and March by Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association, 14000 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Ste. L, Ramsey, MN 55303. Periodicals Postage Paid at Fargo, ND and at additional mailing offices.
u FEATURES & DEPARTMENTS 4 5 6 7 10 11 14 18 19 20 22 28 29
From the Editor From the President Directors From the Vice President Legislative News MnUSA News Hay Days 2025 Preview Vintage News What’s Cookin’? USA News ISHOF Inductees 2025 Club News MnUSA Business Partners
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association, 14000 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Ste. L, Ramsey, MN 55303.
PUBLISHER Dan Ferris EDITOR Scott Wakefield ART DIRECTOR / COPY EDITOR Dena Gervasi ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Chuck Gekas ADVERTISING SALES Jim Gekas, Mark Hunkeler, Larry Ladowski, Roger Cormier, Greg Jones EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Mike Clevenger, Scotty Harder, Christian Franzen, Scott Wakefield, Gail Friborg, Tom Jann, Mike Ness CONTRIBUTIONS: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials and photographs are welcome but cannot be returned unless sender provides a SASE. Minnesota Snowmobiling is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings. Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish in all or part. ADVERTISING MWO Media Phone: 847-707-8511 chuck@mwomedia.com www.MnUSA.org Send all advertising materials to: MWO Media, 111 Shore Drive, Burr Ridge, IL 60527 Copyright © 2025 by Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without consent of the publisher.
This month’s cover features an image of Military Crossroads near Orr, MN. Photo Jolyn Harvey
COMING IN OCTOBER...
• ERX Motorplex — A local gem for kids, adults, racers & novice riders, ERX has you covered • The RC Riders – Who are they and where do they show up? • Another great recipe from the MnUSA cookbook • ACSA News • HayDays Round-Up 2025 • Preview of the Fall Workshop • Candidates for Office
For more info on upcoming MnUSA & club events:
www.MnUSA.org
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From the Editor Scott Wakefield
Good Riddance, Summer Well, we are off and running again! What a horrible summer; a summer bummer, I’d say. Hot, humid, rain every other day, buggy—oh, the bugs! And who could forget the Canadian wildfire smoke? What should’ve been bright clear sunny days ended up being faded, cloudy, stinky, perpetual campfire smelling, days. Don’t get me wrong, I’m one to enjoy the smell of a campfire from time to time, but not acrid, thick, eye-burning, throat-scratching smoke. Hay Days is this month’s focus, along with some club news, vintage news, upcoming events, and a recap
on legislative news, CRP information, as well as information about the upcoming Fall Workshop hosted by region 8, the Twin Cities. Plenty of good stuff for out-of-the-gate action. Share your stories! I know many of you club members participated in landowner appreciation events, parades, community events, picnics, boat rides, etc. Please complete the Club Submission form and email a high-resolution photo to me and we will get it in the magazine. This magazine goes to snowmobilers, but also to non-snowmobilers, so let’s tell our story! This is your magazine, make it what you want it to be. Contact me at Oliver1650@icloud.com with comments or suggestions.
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From the MnUSA President
Start Planning for Snow! Mike Clevenger
Hello fellow snowmobilers. It has been a long time since we have seen any of that glorious white stuff. Even though we have not received any snow for quite some time, snowmobiling activities don’t stop. Since the last article we have had the MnUSA Spring Budget Meeting, the International Snowmobile Congress (ISC) and the MnUSA Summer Event. It has been a very full and busy summer. Now is the time to start planning for our next snow season. Time for late summer snowmobiling events, Region meetings, and the start of club meetings. The time is now to start thinking about possibly picking up that new sled from the dealer or getting your old sleds out of storage and preparing them for the winter season. Don’t forget your trailer maintenance as well. It is also that time of year to gather MnUSA and club dues, recruit new members, speak with your local businesses about becoming a MnUSA business partner and oh, don’t forget your snowmobile registrations. This year’s season kicks off at the Princeton Outlaw Grass Drags and the Sno-Baron’s Hay Days events. If these two events don’t get you excited about the upcoming season, I don’t know what will! Even though it could be 90 degrees out we are still thinking about snow and how nice it would be to enjoy it this year. (At least that is my thought!) Be sure to look for the MnUSA booth in a new location at Hay Days. MnUSA will be on top of the hill close to the SnoBaron’s Clubhouse and the refreshment place. Our new tent will be on display this year—come check it out.
volunteers work with local businesses and landowners to retain access to over 22,000 miles of trails throughout the state. Think about how significant that is and what it says about our sport. MnUSA also has specific committees that work with the DNR’s Recreation Parks and Trails personnel on issues that affect snowmobiling. This could be anything from funding, registrations, land access, trail signing and trail maintenance to name just a few. MnUSA is also involved with the DNR Enforcement Division with regards to Snowmobile Safety Training. These partnerships are valuable to both organizations and are only becoming stronger. Not only is it time to think about sled registrations, but it is also the time of year to renew your membership with your clubs and/or trail associations. I still maintain my challenge from last year moving into this year. The challenge was to have every MnUSA member recruit at least one new member, a past member that hasn’t renewed for several years or a business partner. With this effort we can continue to grow our organization. MnUSA is and always will be stronger if we continue to work together and recruit others to join us. Please check out our new website, MnUSA.org to find a club, business partner, safety materials, our monthly Newsledder update, landowner information, Grant-In-Aid Trail information, scholarship information, plus many new items that were not previously found on our old website. It is worth exploring! Encourage fellow snowmobilers to use our new website and gain more insight into our organization. As with every new endeavor MnUSA is still making improvements and developmental updates to our site. Once you try the site you will see how user-friendly it can be – please use it – it is there for YOU!
The MnUSA Board of Directors and Executive Board are continuing their mission of updating and establishing new policies and procedures to better benefit the future of MnUSA. MnUSA can now accept tax-deductible contributions and donations due to our new state change as a 501(c)3 organization. MnUSA works hard to keep the privilege of snowmobiling alive for you! There are hundreds of volunteers working behind the scenes to keep this effort moving forward. These September 2025
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MnUSA Directors Executive Board
Directors
President
Region 1 Dale Dahlen, 2321 Pebble Beach Rd NW East Grand Forks, 56721, 218-791-6679 dodahlen@ hotmail.com
Mike Clevenger-XM 7302 NW 97th Ave Morristown, 55052 507-838-5713 cmclevenger3@gmail.com Vice President Scotty Harder-XM 13126 Jenkins Dr. Becker, MN 55308 612-860-0606 sharder67@msn.com
Treasurer Gordon Heitke - XM 2270 300th Ave Mora 55051 763-234-6712 gheitke@gmail.com
Mike Boucher, 27528 230th St SW, Crookston 56716 218-280-3385 mjb86@yahoo.com Gail Friborg, 37857 Fairground Rd Bagley, 56621, 218-694-2840 pfgf@gvtel.com Jeff Lovold, 603 2nd Ave SE, Roseau 56751 218280-1941 Aaron Swanson, 10218 Beverly Dr NW, Bemidji, 56601; 218-689-6686 aaronleeswanson@gmail.com
Director-At-Large Scott Wakefield -XM 12620 Co Rd 30 Waconia 55387 612-483-5638 oliver1650@icloud.com
Region 2 Troy Johnson, 218-390-0046 tntjohnson547@hotmail.com
By-Laws: Rick Johnson-XM · 612-839-0956
Charity/Awards: Janet Widness-XM · 218-731-6126
Mike Banovetz, 218-235-9969 mbanovetz2009@yahoo.com
Elections/Nominations: Scott Wakefield-XM • 612-483-5638 Fund Raising: Scotty Harder-XM · 612-860-0606 Land Access: OPEN Legislative/DNR/Trails: Terry Hutchinson-XM · 612-581-6627 Membership/Booth: OPEN Merchandise: Dick Theis · 763-494-3838 Safety: Mike Banovetz Site Selection: Mark LaBaw-XM · 952-221-2564 Website: Randy Vannet
Jeremy Goebel 11210 7th St S, Cottage Grove 55016 651-308-0398 goebeljeremy1985@gmail.com
Region 3 Tom Jann, 21668 Peterson Creek Dr Deerwood, 56444, 218-839-1230 lakejann@gmail.com
Jerry Larson, 9855 Hall Ave NE Monticello, 55362 , 763-772-7462 majesticproservice@gmail.com Pete Wagener, 8555 Jason Ave NE Monticello, 55362, 612-501-8992 ptwent@hotmail.com Region 4 Sheri Gades-XM, 103 5th St N Danvers, 56231, 320-760-3526 gades@fedteldirect.net
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Region 6 Bill Prinsen, 5011 121 St N, White Bear Lake 55110, 651-260-8508 billprinsen@hotmail.com
Ken Eckel, 612-910-5363
John Olmscheid, PO Box 160 Elrosa, 56325, 320-250-3271 johnolmscheid43@gmail.com
Coy Borgstrom, 20 E Veterans Memorial Hwy, Kasson, 55944, 507-251-1199 coy3911@gmail.com
Bruce Wemette, 18379 Marie Dr, Houston, MN 55943, Bwemette@gmail.com, 507-450-8802
Nicole Pankratz, 218-780-3853 pankratz.nicole@yahoo.com
Allen Beumer, 10234 410th Ave Hillman, 56338, 320-355-2257 abeumer1845@gmail.com
Bill Gehn, Red Wing, 651-388-7541 william_gehn@hotmail.com
Brad Thacher, 55 1st Ave SW, Harmony, 55939, 586-899-0810, Brad.Biker@ATT.net
Jerry Kujala-XM, 218-750-2234 jdkujala@gmail.com Cindy Hansmann, 218-301-9496 cindy.hansmann@frontier.com
Region 5 Paul Maruska, 26276 Drexel Ave, New Prague, 56071, 952-212-2293 ptmaruska81@gmail.com
Mike Brandt, 2600 6th Ave NW, Austin, 55912, 507-460-2002 brandtmj@live.com
Randy Vannet, 218-244-6797 randy.vannet@gmail.com
Communications: Scott Wakefield-XM · 612-483-5638
Jeff Kack-XM, PO Box 55 Appleton, 56208, 320-289-1069 jkack@mchsi.com Dick Kuttner, 522 Shady Ridge Rd NW Hutchinson, 55350, 320-587-6536 richardk@hutchtel.net
Secretary Janet Widness - XM 43390 220th St Clitherall 56524 218-731-6126 jwstulk@prtel.com
Committee Chairs
Rodney Boesch, PO Box 337, Amboy 56010 507-340-2820 rod.boesch@boeschcrt.com
Ed Koenigs, 19460 Bauer Circle, Hastings, MN 55033, 651-437-3531 edkoenigs@hotmail.com Ken Zak, 20629 Kenrick Ave, Lakeville, 55044, 952-469-2246 kjnbaa@frontier.net Region 7 Randy Laberge-XM, 5424 Lax Lake Rd Silver Bay, 55614, 218-353-7697 dandrlaberge@hotmail.com Ryan Boe, 5146 Jean Duluth Rd Duluth 55803, 218-349-5578 ryanboe@hotmail.com Dan Hamilton, Duluth, 651-398-2461 danielhamilton@aol.com Rick Johnson-XM, 4353 Briarwood Ln, Hopkins, 55343, 612-839-0956 rick@teampro.net
Minnesota Snowmobiling
Phillip Lockett, 218-348-9161 lockettphillip@yahoo.com Scott Seeley, Two Harbors 218-830-1028, srseeley1@gmail.com Gary Vezina, Duluth 218-722-2852 Bill Ylatupa-XM, 43 Garden Dr Silver Bay, 55614, 218-220-8189 ylatupa2@gmail.com Region 8 Dick Theis, 20575 Co Rd 10 Hamel, 55340, 763-494-3838 dickt.barbc@gmail.com Randy Baudler, 9259 FoxlineDr N Corcoran, 55340, 763-420-5526 rbslawn@gmail.com Mark LaBaw-XM, 1471 Independence Ave Chaska, 55318, 952-221-2564 mlabawstillafishn@yahoo.com Tim Pommier, 1683 Sage Lane, Shakopeee, MN 55379, 612-801-3250 tpommier@comcast.net Region 9 Steve “Woody”Widness-XM, 43390 220th St Clitherall, 56524, 218-731-1286 jwstulk@prtel.com Jeff Alberts, 17321 Otto Zeck Rd, Detroit Lakes 56501, 218-847-1241, mtnmtrs@arvig.net Greg Strommen, 1112 62nd Ave N, Moorhead, 56560, 701-212-7002, gstromm165@gmail.com
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MnUSA Office: 14000 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Ste. L, Ramsey, MN 55303 ph.763-577-0185 fax 763-577-0186
From the MnUSA Vice President
Calendars are Here! to snowmobile clubs. There is a camaraderie in the
becomes. Plus, most of the friends I have, I met belonging passion that we all share.
Scotty Harder
Well, it’s that time of year again as we start to prepare for another season of snowmobiling in the great state of Minnesota. Sitting in my camper on a 90-degree day with thunderstorms makes it hard to come up with a great story for you all to read, but I keep dreaming about 10 inches of snow for an average inch of rain. Let’s pray for a great year of snow this year as I don’t think the industry could handle many more brown-out years in a row. On a positive note, Arctic Cat is back and seems to be coming back strong. Rumor has it this will be the last year of Kitty Cat snowmobiles as most people are starting their kids out on 200cc models. I have been told that they are already on the assembly line in Thief River Falls. I’m very excited to see what new things come out of TRF in the next few years! It’s a great thing in today’s world that we keep all the manufacturers alive in our sport and other outdoor sports as well.
It’s time we start getting trails in shape, and as a reminder, be sure that all stop signs and stop-aheads are in place. If you have new members, have them lead the signing in your area. If they get confused on where the trail is, then a sign is required to improve your trail sections. This is just a suggestion that has worked well for me in the past, as a trail coordinator, for one of the clubs I belong too. My last note is that the MnUSA E-Board is putting together the Winter Rendezvous this year, as no club, trail association or even a region stepped up to do this event. Please be thinking years down the road and get your bid in to host the Rendezvous in the upcoming years. If you take time to put this event together, it can and will be a great event and a great way to make some extra money for your club or area. I look forward to seeing you on the trails!
I also received an email from the printing company that the 2026 Raffle calendars are done and ready for pickup, so we will be selling them at the Outlaw Grass Drags and Hay Days. They are $20 each with over $20,000 in prize payouts. The funds are used to help support the trails in Minnesota. The calendars have a new design this year that I hope you all enjoy, so make sure to reach out to your local club and get yours while they last…1 in 16 is a winner which is great odds for $20. I’d like to take this time to remind all of us that when new members join your club, have an open mind and listen to them, let them be a part of the work we do. If it’s a suggestion that has been tried before, take the time to explain the details of why or why not it didn’t work. Some things just need a fresh mind to work out. With that said, I challenge every one of you to recruit at least one new member to your club. We have a voice in Minnesota, and there is strength in numbers. The more people who belong to a snowmobile club and become educated on all that goes on behind the scenes, the better our trail system September 2025
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Legislative News
Historic and Traumatic
and his wife Yvette and bereavement of those murdered, Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, Mark Hortman and their dog Gilbert. This was the most bipartisan legislature I’ve seen in years if not ever, just when we needed them to.
by Christian Franzen
This legislative session has been both historic and traumatic. And will change our legislature forever. The 2025 legislative session will be remembered for the assassination and attempted assassination of our elected officials. What won’t be remembered as much is the bipartisanship which came out of that same session. With the tie in the House and a one vote democrat margin in the Senate, our legislators had to make a deal in the best interest of the state. And although it took a short special session, our legislature made that two-year budget agreement as constitutionally necessary. And when it did come to the horrific events, the legislature showed collective support for those injured, Senator Hortman
Although there is a lot to unpack about last session and what’s to come, here are some bullet points to legislative snowmobile issues: • Authorizing snowmobiling license plates. The bill was introduced but not yet heard in committee. We spoke with all three Chairs about this issue and understand that so called “vanity plate” legislation takes several years to pass. The bill is alive for the 2026 session, and we will be working with key lawmakers during the interim. • Sales tax exemption for materials used to develop and maintain trails. We had a good hearing with the Senate Tax Chair calling this her favorite tax exemption bill, but the bill was not included in the omnibus tax bill. • SFIA reduction. The Senate proposed a 30% reduction in Sustainable Forest funding. Senator Hauschild successfully argued for a compromise position of a 10% reduction in the tax conference committee. • PFAS. We successfully argued in committee that youth snowmobiles should be exempted from the PFAS ban. • Snowmobile funding. $9,624,000.00 was appropriated for each of the next two fiscal years. Note that the only source of funds for this appropriation is our dedicated account so amounts expended will depend on account balances. This list is a good representation of what generally came out of the legislature this year. What they believed imperative was passed (SFIA, PFAS, funding) and everything else was left for the second year of the biennium. As we move forward, access to legislators and the capital itself will be reevaluated. There will be leadership changes and new laws pertaining to legislators’ safety passed early. My advice would be to send your legislator (no matter who) a thank you. You can thank them for advocating for what you care about or making hard concessions thought best for the district. Or just thank them for giving their time and energy for trying to make Minnesota a better state because that’s just about as bipartisan and universal as it gets.
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Minnesota Snowmobiling
MnUSA News Become a Platinum Club
Take your club to the next level by becoming a MnUSA Platinum Club. For a $75 donation, your club will be designated as a “Platinum” club in Minnesota Snowmobiling, and as a thank you for your donation, your club will be listed monthly per issue printed. • Help your club stand out by becoming a MnUSA Platinum Club! • Help support the greatest state association around and help support trails and the snowmobile industry.
THE ALL-NEW 858 IS HERE
Send your donation to the office and notate in the memo: “Platinum Club.” Please email Magazine Editor at oliver1650@icloud.com to confirm your donation and ensure your spot in the monthly list.
XM Members Unite
Be a standout snowmobiler and donate $20 or more (plus your MnUSA membership—$30 via a club or $35 direct) and you get your name, spouse, family or group listed in each printed issue throughout the season.
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MnUSA News
Live from Farmfest 2025 by Scott Wakefield You might be asking, what does Farmfest have to do with the sport of snowmobiling? More than you’d think! They actually have a snowmobile on site at the Gilfillan Estate next door to Farmfest—an old 1971 Herter’s Husky made in Waseca, MN, don’t ya know! They also have snowmobile manufacturers at the event, albeit selling side-by-sides, none the less.
anywhere from 15 to 30 years. So, yes, you can do math too—that’s a lot of trips to the NRCS office to sign this acknowledgement. Your Legislative Committee and lobbyists have been working diligently to get this changed. One word—once. From annually to once. If you’re a hunter, you’re not required to do this. Neighboring states do not require this, albeit Wisconsin, which has very few miles of snowmobile trails on CRP land.
The more important answer? Legislators and government employees. The DNR has a large event space in one of the big vendor tents, to answer all your DNR questions.
Attending Farmfest was Kurt Blomgren, State Executive Mr. Kurt Blomgren State Executive Director Farm Service Agency Director for the Minnesota Farm USDA addressing the crowd after talking with Editor Scott Service Agency, and I was able to What’s that got to do with Wakefield at FarmFest regarding trails on CRP Land. have a one-on-one talk with him snowmobiling in Minnesota? A lot, when you’re trying to change a policy as it relates to Wednesday morning of the event. Conversation went well, and I’m drafting a formal recommendation to him snowmobile trails on CRP (Federal Program) lands. and the USDA to change the wording from annually to once. One question brought up was how this applies to As you may or may not know, the Minnesota Division of the USDA created a policy (not law) that a landowner a transfer of ownership (farm sells or family transfer of any type must sign an acknowledgment to the USDA or to a trust, etc.). We believe that would be the same circumstance—sign the acknowledgement once at of having snowmobile trails on their land every year for the term of the CRP contract. CRP contracts can last transfer of ownership. Stay tuned!
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Minnesota Snowmobiling
Thank You!
The following members have paid an extra fee to protect our trails! Join them by doing your share. Contact the MnUSA office today.
XM Members:
Rob Abear Jeff Alberts Eric & Angela Bachinski Edward Barnick Tony & Val Barthel Keith & Heather Berndt Mike Berthiaume & Karen Randall-Fisher Steve & Carolyn Blake Berdell Boraas Mike & Joelle Boucher Jill & Randy Brandt Mike & Wendy Brandt Gorden Brekken Brian Brown Jim Bryant Gary Butz Bruce Carlson Jim Carlson Robert Carney Tim & Linda Clark Dale & Sonya Clementson Micheal & Mary Denker Charles & Sandy Doherty Mike & Kim Duea Mike & Chris Eck Ken & Pat Eckel Rusty Eichorn & Toni Brose Brad Eldred Mark & Patti Eldred Daniel A. & Janet Feeney Sheri & Russell Gades
Larry Grabanski Troy Halvorson Carl & Mercedes Hanson Lance & Katrina Hapka Dane & Barb Hasbrouck Joseph & Katie Heidelberger Kason Heinecke Robert & Gayle Holt Rex & Arlene Holzemer Jason & Brooke Huerkamp Bruce & Lee Ann Hughes Willard & Kim Hunnewell Terry & Debbie Hutchinson Richard & Judith Johnson Jeff & Louise Kack Steve & Terri Kast Chris & Michele Keyport Paul Kirscht Earl Klersy Micheal Klimek Steven & Linda Knopp Dustin Knutson Marlys Knutson William Kuehn Kenny Kukacka Mark & Kathy LaBaw Levi & Kristen LaVallee Randy LeBerge Ken Lewis Bill Lorence & Laurie McLead-Lorence Gary & Judy Lothenbach Brian & Penny Lund
David & Dianna Martin Mark & Laurie Martinson John Matejcek Joel Matter Jon & Tawni Maynard Bill & Jean McGarry Dean & Rita Meichsner Steve & Brittni Meier Jeff & Terri Jo Melo Richard & Barbara Meyer Micheal Milner Dave & Patti Myers Bill & Sharyn Nepsha Doug Nigon Robert Nistler Mike & Judy Nodsle Todd Novitsky Brent & Jenny Oberdieck Daniel Osterkamp Walter & Connie Petersen Craig Peterson & Yvonne Peterson Ron Peterson Terry & Dianne Peterson Petschl Family Deb & Ray Barnes Pomroy Bart & Cheryl Porter Mike & Iiyne Rasmussen Brian Reckow Mike & Peggy Reis Chris Rokke Kevin & Ann Schield Kris Schiffler
Richard & Barbara Schmidt Rob & Raegan Sipe Bob Skoglund Jim Skoglund Rod & Jennifer Skorich Nick & Gretchen Slavicek Steven & Jane Spaeth Mike & Vicki Thelen Mark & Karen Thompson Keith & Jennifer Twombly Dave Van Wie Wyat Vandal John Wade Scott & Lisa Wakefield Kim Werkmeister Kip & Leon Wessels Rick & Ruth Whitcomb Rob White Dave & Tammy Wolf Danny & Fay YochumLarry & Judy Shepherd Tom Shurson Stuart & Jennifer Simek Rob Sipe Brian Sjerven Bob Skoglund Jim Skoglund Rod & Jennifer Skorich Mark & Wendy Slagle Nick & Gretchen Slavicek David & Rebecca Slininger Dan Snee & Barb Snee
Steven & Jane Spaeth Mark & Sue Steinmueller Russell Stolen Shannon Tatro John & Melanie Tevik Mike & Vicki Thelen Mark & Karen Thompson Mark Tiede Chad Timonen Jeffrey & Jolene Trippe Keith & Jennifer Twombly David Van Wie Kyle Voelz Todd & Abby Volden Paul Vranish John Wade Scott & Lisa Wakefield Ron Warhol Merle Weidemann Ryan Weidemann Dan & Jen Wenzel Kim Werkmeister Rick & Ruth Whitcomb Rob White Steve “Woody” & Janet Widness Randy Windsperger Dave & Tammy Wolf Don Kline & Paula Worts Bill & Fran Ylatupa Danny & Fay Yochum Rich & Ruth Zeman Craig Zweber
For special rates visit WWW.BRANDINIRON.COM 201 Canyon St | West Yellowstone, MT | 800.217.4613 | info@brandiniron.com September 2025
13
Arctic Cat’s Troy Halverson explaining the specifics on the Cat’s New 858 Engine to editor Scott Wakefield.
HAY DAYS 2025 Preview by Scott Wakefield
What can you say that hasn’t already been said about Hay Days? People plan weddings, funerals, graduations, vacations, hunting trips around Hay Days! Hay Days is hands down the world’s largest snowmobile event, and the most fun you can have with your snowmobile suit on. Worldwide? Yes! Meet racers and enthusiasts from all parts of the world at Hay Days. Don’t believe me? Go to the Ski-Doo unveiling and just listen—you’ll hear more than just English. I heard, dialect from Finland, Norway, Quebec-French Canadian. And those are the ones I could understand. I think I even heard German or more likely, Austrian. I go every year just to try and figure out in my head who’s speaking what language. Nonstop, is another good word to describe Hay Days. Back in the day it was pretty laid back at the old Waldoch site. The vibe hit its crescendo about 2 p.m. and soon faded after 4 p.m. for most (although we all did things at the old site we would never try now!). But this Hay Days isn’t your father’s old Hay Days. This thing is off the hook from the second you get within 2 miles of the site! I’m an east side guy, always have been, so when I come down County Road 70 northbound and I hit that top of the hill and look to my left…oh my, it’s a party! And the crescendo of excitement for me is nonstop from that time on until a half hour after I leave the site—I’m still ramped up. That’s the difference for me. It’s nonstop excitement, 14
Rows and Rows of Swap awaiting your visit:
and after 43 years of attending Hay Days (this will be my 44th), I still get pulled in with its vast space, tons of activities, diversity of events, entertainment, and the food! The food with vendors under the trees and throughout Hay Days is right up there with the State Fair. I’ll even go out on a limb and say a tad better than the State Fair. You know why? Less lines! And how about the Swap? Many say, if it’s been made, it’s at Hay Days! Some items might be made in a garage with a welder and welding rods, but no matter, it’s amazing how many items there are to see at Hay Days in the Swap.
Mud Bog racing is filling the stands on the east side of Hay Days along County Rd. 70. Check it out!
Minnesota Snowmobiling
it all started. And now with vintage racing on the big track, you don’t want to miss a thing. And in addition to side-by-sides, ATV, quads, mods, and the like, racing in the center of it all, we now have sanctioned mud bog racing, which is not for the faint of heart, for sure. The excitement is nonstop heart-pumping action.
Ski-Doo details on the all-new MXZ Adrenaline. Manufacturers use Hay Days to introduce new sleds to the throngs of people looking.
Races? Competitive as it is, racers from other countries— mainly Canadians—are bringing down more than wildfire smoke, they are bringing the real-deal smoke! Vintage? With the new Memory Lane building last year, 1 3/21/25 this is Hay-Days-8.5x5.139.pdf becoming a premier area to 12:52 stopPMand see where
Manufacturers? Check out the newest and the hottest sleds for the coming year at the manufacturer unveilings taking place on Saturday. And now with the ‘Cat back in the mix, it’s even more exciting this year! There’s no other place you need to be more than Hay Days 2025! Drop what you’re doing or planning on doing and reschedule, because this year’s Hay Days is going to be off the hook. Saturday and Sunday, September 6 & 7 will be the best weekend this year!
HAYDAYS.COM
SEPT. 6&7 THE OFFICIAL START OF WINTER September 2025
15
MAKE ANY TERRAIN
YOUR PLAYGROUND
VISIT YOUR LOCAL MINNESOTA SKI-DOO DEALER TODAY
OLLIE’S SERVICE, INC. 111 DONNA AVE, ALEXANDRIA, MN https://www.olliesservice.com
ST BONI MOTOR SPORTS 4120 STEINER ST, SAINT BONIFACIUS, MN https://www.motorsportsmn.com
HILMERSON SPORTS CENTER 14731 IRIS RD, LITTLE FALLS, MN https://www.hilmersonsportscenter.com
CASWELL CYCLE 768 NORTH HWY 65, MORA, MN https://www.caswellcycle.com
DULUTH LAWN & SPORT, INC. 4715 GRAND AVE, DULUTH, MN https://www.duluthlawnandsport.com
MANKATO MOTORSPORTS 130 ST ANDREWS RD, MANKATO, MN https://www.mankatomotorsports.com
BROTHERS MOTORSPORTS 7915 HWY 210, BAXTER, MN https://www.brothersmotorsports.com
TRUEMAN-WELTER’S INC. 1600 HWY 55 E, BUFFALO, MN https://www.trueman-welterspowersports.com
BEMIDJI SPORTS CENTRE, INC. 1826 ANNE ST NW, BEMIDJI, MN https://www.bemidjisportscentre.com
MOTOR SPORTS OF WILLMAR 4970 HWY 71 NE, WILLMAR, MN https://www.motorsportsofwillmar.com
MILLER SELLNER IMPLEMENT, INC. 22024 STATE HWY 4 S, SLEEPY EYE, MN https://www.millersellnerpowersports.com
RIVER VALLEY POWER & SPORT 5327 E. FRONTAGE RD NW, ROCHESTER, MN https://www.rivervalleypowerandsport.com
U MOTORS 18457 HWY 59, DETROIT LAKES, MN https://www.umotorsinc.com
JAYCOX POWERSPORTS 1861 OXFORD ST, WORTHINGTON, MN https://www.jaycoxpowersports.com
MINNEAPOLIS MOTOR SPORTS 801 LOUISIANA AVE S, MINNEAPOLIS, MN https://www.motorsportsmn.com
RAY’S SPORT & CYCLE 20890 US HWY 169 SO, GRAND RAPIDS, MN https://www.rayssportandcycle.com
PRESTON EQUIPMENT COMPANY 21144 US HWY 52, PRESTON, MN http://www.prestonequip.com
MOON MOTORSPORTS 3613 CHELSEA RD W, MONTICELLO, MN https://www.moonpowersports.com
NORTHLAND LAWN SPORT & EQUIPMENT 504 INDUSTRIAL RD, MOOSE LAKE, MN https://www.mynorthlandms.com
RIVER VALLEY POWER & SPORT, INC. 3859 HWY 61, RED WING, MN https://www.rivervalleypowerandsport.com
ACTION SPORTS INC. 301 S. HWY 23, MARSHALL, MN https://www.yourwaytofun.com
BEAVER BAY SPORTS 4878 HWY 61, BEAVER BAY, MN http://www.beaverbaysports.com
LAKES AREA POWERSPORTS 8322 STATE HWY 371 NW, WALKER, MN https://www.lakesareapowersports.com
MIES OUTLAND 720 HWY 55, WATKINS, MN https://www.miesoutlandwatkins.com
LEO’S SOUTH 16375 KENRICK AVE, LAKEVILLE, MN https://www.leossouth.com
CENTRE POWER SPORTS & RECREATION 43164 COUNTY RD 112, SAUK CENTRE, MN https://centrepowersports.com
MIES OUTLAND OF ST. CLOUD 3653 32ND ST S.E., SAINT CLOUD, MN http://www.miesoutland.com
OLSON POWER AND EQUIPMENT, INC. 38560 14TH AVE, NORTH BRANCH, MN https://www.olsonpower.com
POWER LODGE 6781 HWY 10 NW, RAMSEY, MN https://www.powerlodgeramsey.com
LOSSING’S POWERSPORTS 30 NORTH DRIVE, BABBITT, MN https://www.lossings.com
TOUSLEY MOTORSPORTS 1400 EAST COUNTY RD E, WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN https://www.tousleymotorsports.com
POWER LODGE 33972 US HWY 169, ONAMIA, MN https://www.hilmersonsportscenter.com
// SKI-DOO.COM ©2025 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc.
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DO NOT PRINT
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MAKE ANY TERRAIN
YOUR PLAYGROUND
VISIT YOUR LOCAL MINNESOTA SKI-DOO DEALER TODAY
OLLIE’S SERVICE, INC. 111 DONNA AVE, ALEXANDRIA, MN https://www.olliesservice.com
ST BONI MOTOR SPORTS 4120 STEINER ST, SAINT BONIFACIUS, MN https://www.motorsportsmn.com
HILMERSON SPORTS CENTER 14731 IRIS RD, LITTLE FALLS, MN https://www.hilmersonsportscenter.com
CASWELL CYCLE 768 NORTH HWY 65, MORA, MN https://www.caswellcycle.com
DULUTH LAWN & SPORT, INC. 4715 GRAND AVE, DULUTH, MN https://www.duluthlawnandsport.com
MANKATO MOTORSPORTS 130 ST ANDREWS RD, MANKATO, MN https://www.mankatomotorsports.com
BROTHERS MOTORSPORTS 7915 HWY 210, BAXTER, MN https://www.brothersmotorsports.com
TRUEMAN-WELTER’S INC. 1600 HWY 55 E, BUFFALO, MN https://www.trueman-welterspowersports.com
BEMIDJI SPORTS CENTRE, INC. 1826 ANNE ST NW, BEMIDJI, MN https://www.bemidjisportscentre.com
MOTOR SPORTS OF WILLMAR 4970 HWY 71 NE, WILLMAR, MN https://www.motorsportsofwillmar.com
MILLER SELLNER IMPLEMENT, INC. 22024 STATE HWY 4 S, SLEEPY EYE, MN https://www.millersellnerpowersports.com
RIVER VALLEY POWER & SPORT 5327 E. FRONTAGE RD NW, ROCHESTER, MN https://www.rivervalleypowerandsport.com
U MOTORS 18457 HWY 59, DETROIT LAKES, MN https://www.umotorsinc.com
JAYCOX POWERSPORTS 1861 OXFORD ST, WORTHINGTON, MN https://www.jaycoxpowersports.com
MINNEAPOLIS MOTOR SPORTS 801 LOUISIANA AVE S, MINNEAPOLIS, MN https://www.motorsportsmn.com
RAY’S SPORT & CYCLE 20890 US HWY 169 SO, GRAND RAPIDS, MN https://www.rayssportandcycle.com
PRESTON EQUIPMENT COMPANY 21144 US HWY 52, PRESTON, MN http://www.prestonequip.com
MOON MOTORSPORTS 3613 CHELSEA RD W, MONTICELLO, MN https://www.moonpowersports.com
NORTHLAND LAWN SPORT & EQUIPMENT 504 INDUSTRIAL RD, MOOSE LAKE, MN https://www.mynorthlandms.com
RIVER VALLEY POWER & SPORT, INC. 3859 HWY 61, RED WING, MN https://www.rivervalleypowerandsport.com
ACTION SPORTS INC. 301 S. HWY 23, MARSHALL, MN https://www.yourwaytofun.com
BEAVER BAY SPORTS 4878 HWY 61, BEAVER BAY, MN http://www.beaverbaysports.com
LAKES AREA POWERSPORTS 8322 STATE HWY 371 NW, WALKER, MN https://www.lakesareapowersports.com
MIES OUTLAND 720 HWY 55, WATKINS, MN https://www.miesoutlandwatkins.com
LEO’S SOUTH 16375 KENRICK AVE, LAKEVILLE, MN https://www.leossouth.com
CENTRE POWER SPORTS & RECREATION 43164 COUNTY RD 112, SAUK CENTRE, MN https://centrepowersports.com
MIES OUTLAND OF ST. CLOUD 3653 32ND ST S.E., SAINT CLOUD, MN http://www.miesoutland.com
OLSON POWER AND EQUIPMENT, INC. 38560 14TH AVE, NORTH BRANCH, MN https://www.olsonpower.com
POWER LODGE 6781 HWY 10 NW, RAMSEY, MN https://www.powerlodgeramsey.com
LOSSING’S POWERSPORTS 30 NORTH DRIVE, BABBITT, MN https://www.lossings.com
TOUSLEY MOTORSPORTS 1400 EAST COUNTY RD E, WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN https://www.tousleymotorsports.com
POWER LODGE 33972 US HWY 169, ONAMIA, MN https://www.hilmersonsportscenter.com
// SKI-DOO.COM ©2025 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc.
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SKI-DOO
MY26
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2025-09-15
ES
Safety: 00.00”
Scale: 1:1
Page: 1
MN-SnowmobileMagazine
Final Format: 16,5” x 10,75” C M Y K
DO NOT PRINT
Dieline
Bleed: 00.25” PMS 0000 C
DO NOT PRINT
Fold
PMS 0000 C
PMS 0000 C
Safety
Spot Varnish
DO NOT PRINT
Notes:
ATTENTION — Trapping to be done by the printer according to the printer’s specs.
Vintage News by Scott Wakefield can all be found at the Memory Lane building on the north side of grounds at Hay Days. Most times, one of those collectors can be found in the building. If it’s not Scott Gottschalk or Randy Martin, you’ll find one of the Grambart brothers wandering around. The Grambarts may have tough-looking exteriors, but once you say, “hi, what can you tell me about this sled?” they will open up and give you more information than you thought possible.
Sleds ready to tell their stories in the Memory Lane building—just ask a Grambart!
Memory Lane is all-new again this year at Hay Days. Make sure to stop by and see the latest barn finds these diehard collectors have found over the past year since last year’s Hay Days. Starting with race sleds, with tons of history, stories and horsepower, all the way down to everyday riders with unique features, those and more
PROUD TO BE YOUR TRAIL GROOMING PARTNER IN MINNESOTA
And speaking of a walking encyclopedia on vintage sleds, look for Les Pinz in the building. He’s a gem to talk to about most anything, but he really specializes in those old race Scorpions for some reason! If you’re lucky enough to run into Jess Babler, the guy who built the building, he can tell you the latest and greatest on I-500 sled finds and can spin a good story for you about how much fun it was working on the building with lots of input from committee members. Also, look/ask for exciting new flyers to be handed out for next year’s 2026 Midwest Ride-In show to be held during the last weekend of January 2026. If you’ve tried the rest... IT’S TIME TO TRY THE BEST!
Ultimate
Ultimate Jr. w/tool box
REACH OUT TO YOUR LOCAL SALES REP Bob Wolf bob.wolf@prinoth.com (612) 251-4094
Over 10 Different Features & Add-ons!
» Ultimate Drag: 8’-12 1/2’ (W) x 20’ (L) » Ultimate Junior Drag: 6’ (W) x 12’ (L)
SCAN THIS CODE TO LEARN MORE!
Galesville, WI • 608-539-4600 greg@ultimatesnowgroomerdrags.com
ultimatesnowgroomerdrags.com 18
Minnesota Snowmobiling
This is the first of many examples from the MnUSA cookbook, Flavors of Minnesota Snowmobilers
IT DOESN’T GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS!
THUNDERBIRD LODGE On Beautiful Rainy Lake
WHAT’S ! w e N COOKIN’?
A SNOWMOBILE DESTINATION
Excellent Winter Rate Cabins Perfect for Large Groups Legendary Bar & Restaurant Open Everyday, All Day Gas & Oil On Site with Helpful Attendants Connected to 100s of Trails Snowmobile Rental & Guided Tours Available
Excellent Meatless Three-Bean Chili
CALL TO BOOK: 218-286-3151 THUNDERBIRDRAINYLAKE.COM
15-ounce can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained 15-ounce can small white beans, rinsed and drained 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained 14 ½-ounce can diced tomatoes with green chiles 1 cup beer of chicken broth 3 tablespoons chocolate-flavored syrup 1 tablespoon chili powder 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning Sour cream (optional) Cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
SPECTACULAR
Sledding
Use a 3 ½- to 4-quart slow cooker. Combine all beans, undrained tomatoes, beer, chocolate syrup, chili powder and Cajun seasoning. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. Ladle into soup bowls, top with sour cream and shredded cheese.
Explore miles of beautiful groomed trails, a full-service community and snowmobileaccessible lodging.
Makes 4 servings. Note: If desired, use no-salt or low-sodium beans. Penny Scholl Northwest Trails Association – Region 8
www.rainylake.org || cvb@rainylake.org | 218.283.9400 www.rainylake.org cvb@rainylake.org | 218.283.9401
September 2025
19
The Snow NEWS Report (Snow News is Good News!) A UNITED SNOWMOBILE ALLIANCE PUBLICATION The Life of A Snowmobiler
From the Desk of Chairman Jeff Miller:
It is with great sadness that we tell you of the loss of a true snowmobiler, a man who dedicated much of his life to the service of others in the snowmobile community and a friend to many of us, Roger Wright will be greatly missed by all those he came into contact with. Roger was never loud, always a soft but strong voice guiding people and organizations.
I met Roger many years ago at a Northeast Chapter ride. He was the president of the New Hampshire Snowmobile Association, and he commanded the room. I was impressed with the knowledge and passion he had for the sport that we all love. He was heavily involved in all aspects of snowmobiling, whether it was a club officer, a NHSA officer or running around working tireFrom NHSA President, Brian Labrie: lessly for the NH Grass Drags, you alRoger was more than just a leader—he ways saw him somewhere. His true was the heart and soul of the NH Grass passion was riding and riding he did. Be Drags and a driving force behind prepared when goimg riding with Rogcountless efforts that shaped the snowmobiling community across New er, for your abilities will be tested. He always knew how to pull the best out Hampshire and beyond. His passion, of anyone around him, even if you diddedication, and largerͲthanͲlife presence left an enduring legacy that will n’t think you could he would always not be forgotten. The impact he made, believe in you. So, it was only natural both personally and professionally, when the United Snowmobile Alliance touched so many lives and helped was developed that Roger would be grow the sport we all love. elected the Chairman of the new Association. His quiet but firm demeanor On behalf of the entire NHSA family, was just what USA needed. He was we extend our heartfelt condolences able to understand problems with to Roger’s loved ones during this diffisnowmobiles not just in his own area, cult time. He will be greatly missed. but all over the country. When Roger spoke you listened, because his reRoger was the second chairman of the sponse was always calculated and well United Snowmobile Alliance. He spent thought out. USA will always be indebthis time as chairman building the ed to what Roger did for us in the USA’s policies and procedures to enformative years. The countless hours sure the Alliance continued to move that he put in to make our sport great forward into the future. Roger was will never go unnoticed. He will be also the ViceͲChair and Scholarship sorely missed, and we’ll all miss the chair of the Northeast Chapter of ISC times that we sat with him and picked for many years. We all do and will his brain. Roger, the next time we meet continue to feel his loss. we’ll fire up the sleds and go for a rip Contact: info@unitedsnowmobileAlliance.com
20
Minnesota Snowmobiling
on smooth trails (but please no
moguls!). Rest in Peace Roger and have your sled ready to ride.
Roger Wright’s Obituary Roger Malcolm Wright Jr., a beloved father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025, in Claremont, New Hampshire, at the age of 64. Born on January 19, 1961, in Claremont, he was the son of the late Roger Wright Sr. and Virginia Ann (Cook) Wright. Roger's family and friends remember him for his profound love of life, his unwavering spirit, and his dedication
to community service. Roger is survived by his cherished children, Derrik Wright and Regina WrightͲGadway, as well as his loving sister, Barbara Walsh. He also held dear the relationships he maintained with his previous stepchildren, Tim Chapin, Christina Chapin, and Stacy Chapin. His legacy is further enriched by his beloved nieces and nephews, Kyle Chapin and Jessica Morin, and the laughter and joy brought to his life by his 14 grandchildren. A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Roger at the Cornish Fair Grounds on July 19, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM. AddressͲ 294 Town House Road, Cornish, NH 03745.
June/July 2025 Vol 3, Issue 6
365 Winners
6,000 Calendars Over $20,000 in Prizes
MnUSA Raffle Calendar Photo Credit: Jolyn Harvey - Military Cross Roads Near Orr, MN
SUNDAY Sept. 28th 2025
$20 Each
100 11th st NE Kasson, MN 55944
Permit # X-03880
RAFFLE CALENDAR August 8/1/25 8/2/25 8/3/25 8/4/25 8/5/25 8/6/25 8/7/25 8/8/25 8/9/25 8/10/25 8/11/25 8/12/25 8/13/25 8/14/25 8/15/25 8/16/25 8/17/25 8/18/25 8/19/25 8/20/25 8/21/25 8/22/25 8/23/25 8/24/25 8/25/25 8/26/25 8/27/25 8/28/25 8/29/25 8/30/25 8/31/25
W INNERS $25.00 $50.00 $50.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $50.00 $50.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $50.00 $50.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $470.00 $50.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $50.00 $50.00
September 9/1/25 9/2/25 9/3/25 9/4/25 9/5/25 9/6/25 9/7/25 9/8/25 9/9/25 9/10/25 9/11/25 9/12/25 9/13/25 9/14/25 9/15/25 9/16/25 9/17/25 9/18/25 9/19/25 9/20/25 9/21/25 9/22/25 9/23/25 9/24/25 9/25/25 9/26/25 9/27/25 9/28/25 9/29/25 9/30/25
Great Southern MN Swap Meet (Snowmobile/ATV/UTV) and Vintage Sled Show
$250.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $50.00 $50.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $50.00 $50.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $50.00 $50.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $50.00 $50.00 $25.00 $25.00
Andrew Fodness Ken Yurczyk Tom Mueller Alexia Kerfeld Daryl Honnold Jr John Ebner Dean Haman John Berge Stacy Hennen Trish Kennedy JP Fahey Josh Stangler Dan Nielsen Chris Monson Josh Macziewski Zach Weckwerth Patti Wasserzieher Deanna Lemke Mary Olson Dave Nelson Diane Dulas Ashley Bloom Mike Orlando Charlie Malecha Garett Casatell Dustin Grabowska Tony Remer Jason Buss Tyler Sistad Dan Tillotson Andrew Erickson
Lismore, MN Freeport, MN Genoa City, WI Sauk Centre, MN Isle, MN Redwood Falls, MN Sebeka, MN McGregor, MN Upsala, MN Lakeville, MN Norwood Young America, MN Freeport, MN Dassel, MN Sauk Rapids, MN Montevideo, MN Montevideo, MN Ironton, MN Shakopee, MN Cologne, MN Hitterdal, MN Wells, MN Big Lake, MN Verndale, MN Prior Lake, MN Fargo, ND Argyle, MN Howard Lake, MN Shakopee, MN Pelican Rapids, MN Kilkenny, MN Walker, MN
Bob Skoglund Johnny Holzheuter Ron Dupont Chad Elhardt Keith Vos John Kennedy Shelley & Eolin Zobitz Stephan Georgeson Marc D Hartman Cole Zimmerman Harper Stenerson Ted and Jean Solberg Evan Vanderlinde Mark Anderson Larry Hartman Jodi Bergren Harrison Boucher Ryan Besch Scott Luken Austin Dessner Gary Maslowski David Brown Paul Anderson Ron Sluka Kelly Jantzen Jessup DeCook Lisa McDonald Kevin and Katie Pugh Rob Stanley Neal Jarosz
Hallock, MN Waterloo, WI Big Lake, MN Nashwauk, MN Minnetonka, MN Minto, ND Avon, MN Big Lake, MN Hunter, ND Crookston, MN Sabin, MN Buffalo, MN Waconia, MN Chaska, MN Galesburg , ND Pelican Rapids, MN Crookston, MN Bemidji, MN Eagan, MN Byron, MN Chisago City, MN Kabetogama, MN Sabin, MN Cleveland, OK International Falls, MN Byron, MN Lancaster, MN Norwood Young America, MN Alexandria, MN Robbinsdale, MN
- Kasson Fairgrounds Gates Open at 8:00 AM - General admission $5.00 (Under 16 Free)
- For General Info Call: Jim - 507.951.0570 Darren - 507.951.1314
Vintage Sled Show Call or Email Wade:
507.269.2998
wadeschroeder@kmtel.com Food & Equipment Vendors will be on site
2 7 th Annual Elk River, Minnesota
Snowmobile Swap Meet Saturday, October 4th, 2025
Sherburne County Fairgrounds Swapper and Vendor open from 6:30 to 3:30 Admission gate open from 8 AM to 3 PM
$5 General Admission Free Admission with MnUSA membership card (1 G.A. Only) Swap prices: Vehicle swap prices start at $30 (Includes 2 G.A.). All large vendors, enclosed trailers, motor homes, or tents start at $80.
www.RiverCitySnowRiders.org
September 2025
www.facebook.com/RiverCitySnowRiders 21
ISHOF Inductees 20 2 5 Alan Butler
Volunteer & Club Organizer Foxwarren, Manitoba
Alan was raised on a family farm in western Manitoba and getting involved in the community and volunteering was in his DNA. It is with those family values that he and his wife Linda raised their children.
In 2011, Snowmobilers of Manitoba (Snoman) held their first annual Snoman Congress and Awards Banquet. Alan Butler spearheaded this event and it was regarded as a tremendous success with an overwhelming majority of club attendance. It is now an annual event. During the 2012-2013 season, Alan was instrumental in introducing a provincial trail numbering system. One year later Snoman enhanced this trail numbering system to further emphasize safe operation of the snowmobile. Under the watchful eye of Alan, this program included the development and implementation of an online “Snowmobile Operators Safety Course” made available to those under the age of 18 free of charge. Another project spearheaded by Alan was to get more riders out on the snow to experience all that Manitoba snowmobiling had to offer, a “Free Ride Weekend” to promote the trail system. In 2014, Snoman was awarded funding through the National Trails Coalition and the Provincial Government to carry out 11 projects amounting to $350,000. Alan was instrumental in Snoman receiving the funding. As Chair of the Snoman Planning Committee, Alan and his team were awarded the bid for the 49th International Snowmobile Congress (ISC) in Winnipeg for 2017. That ISC proved to be successful with participants from as far away as Norway. For the 2018-2019 season, Mapgears and Snoman partnered together, thanks to Alan’s initiative, to create an interactive map which would allow snowmobilers to plan their trips online and see which trails are open or closed and when they were groomed last. In 2024 at Snoman’s Congress, Alan was awarded the Outstanding Volunteer Award, recognizing outstanding commitment and significant contributions to recreational snowmobiling. Alan has always been available to meet with government representatives. He has done countless interviews on television, radio and print. Alan is an individual who works adamantly for the good of
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Minnesota Snowmobiling
Alan Butler
the community and of snowmobiling throughout Manitoba and beyond. His contributions can be felt in every facet of the Snoman organization. It is his deep dedication to organized snowmobiling that makes Alan Butler a worthy choice for induction into the Class of 2025 International Snowmobile Hall of Fame.
Michel (Micky) Garneau Publisher & Journalist Montreal, Quebec
Michel (Micky) Garneau’s years in the snowmobile industry have been both a labor of love and a passionate fulfillment of a childhood dream. Growing up in the very small town of Larder Lake (pop. 745) Micky feverishly devoured every power sports publication to hit the newsstands of his hometown’s general store. His fascination with snowmobiles and other off-road vehicles made his passion only stronger with every magazine he could get his hands on. From his doorstep he could wrench on his sleds and learned to service and tune them. Fast forward to his adulthood, Micky became a prolific and accomplished journalist. He has a lengthy list of career highlights that spans over 25 years. As an articulate bilingual journalist, Micky has been able to introduce Quebec snowmobilers to a variety of English publications bringing them new content, ideas and perspectives previously unavailable in French. Serving in various capacities for Motoneige Quebec Magazine from 2001-2025, including
Technical Editor and Editorin-Chief since 2018, Micky has been responsible for delivering content for four yearly 100-page issues, most of which he writes himself, edits and translates into French. Micky is highly respected for his ability to explain complicated issues and technical content in easily understandable terms. Along with his primary journalistic position with the FCMQ (Quebec Federation of Snowmobile Clubs), Micky also makes effective and ongoing contributions to provincial government relations, successfully representing and advocating for the betterment of organized snowmobiling in Quebec on many different issues. Micky serves as a board member representing the FCMQ on the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO) (2001-2025) initiating and being instrumental in developing resolutions to timely important issues. He has served as designated FCMQ delegate to ISC from 2001 to 2025. Micky has made presentations for organized snowmobiling, trail systems and winter tourism on behalf of BRP to delegations from Russia, China and Brazil as recently as 2019 and 2023. Michel Garneau
Wherever the trail leads, there’s an AmericInn nearby waiting to offer you friendly service, a comfortable and quiet night’s sleep, and always a place to park your sled.
As North America’s premier bilingual journalist in snowmobiling for more than 25 years, Micky has been an unsung media leader making an indelible and prolific contribution to the provincial, national and international snowmobile community and to winter tourism. For his many recognized achievements and behind the scenes accomplishments, Michel (Micky) Garneau has earned his induction into the Publishers & Journalists Category for the Class of 2025 International Snowmobile Hall of Fame.
Relax and enjoy our heated indoor pool.
Bob Kirchner
Fuel up every morning with a free homestyle breakfast.
MICHIGAN
Volunteer & Club Organizer St. Marys, Pennsylvania
Bob purchased his first snowmobile in 1979, joined the Pennsylvania State Snowmobile Association (PSSA) in 1980 and his involvement in organized snowmobiling grew stronger from there on. By 1990, Bob was elected President of the Pigeon Hills Snowmobile Club. A few years later a work transfer took Bob and his wife Kathy to St. Marys, PA where they joined Bob Kirchner the St. Marys Snowmobile Association (SMASA). They remain members to date. Bob
Calumet
Iron River
906-337-6463
906-265-9100
Silver City 906-662-9111
MINNESOTA Grand Rapids
Int’l Falls
Roseau
218-326-8999
218-209-2487
218-463-1045
Tofte
Virginia
218-663-7899
218-208-0230
AmericInn.com | 800.634.3444 continued on next page
Comfortable, quieter rooms | Free, hot, home-style breakfast Hotel-wide, high-speed internet | Indoor pool
September 2025
23
and family also hold yearly memberships in several other Pennsylvania snowmobile clubs. Bob is a founding member of the West Creek Recreational Trail Association which successfully converted a 19-mile railroad grade in the area to a multi-use recreational trail. Bob made sure that the snowmobilers’ interests were included in the development of the trail. Bob tried his hand in snowmobile racing over a span of about a decade and in that time started a race team, the highlight of which they competed in the “24 hours of Eagle River” race where they finished in 13th place. Bob attended his first International Snowmobile Congress in 1997 and subsequently attended most ISC’s since then. In 2005, Bob was elected President of PSSA where he served through 2008. He served on the Pennsylvania Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Snowmobile/ATV Advisory Committee for several years. Bob also became very active in the American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA), serving as their Vice-President for 2013 & 2014 and elected President of ACSA in 2015 & 2016. Still very involved with the DCNR, in 2022, Bob was appointed in a leadership role to help evaluate and recommend changes to the Snowmobile and ATV funding measures for the State of Pennsylvania. In 2023, Bob was accepted as a member of the Iron Dog Brigade. In 2024, Bob joined the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame Board of Directors. By 2025, Bob was selected to serve on the by-laws committee for the International Snowmobile Council. Bob has been an unrelenting advocate for snowmobiling most of his life, approaching the sport not just as a hobby but as a passion. His extensive volunteer work spans the local, state and national levels, reflecting his commitment to advancing and promoting snowmobiling. It is this unwavering dedication and significant contributions to the snowmobiling community that lands Bob Kirchner squarely in the Class of 2025 International Snowmobile Hall of Fame.
Sam Landes
Volunteer & Club Organizer Dane, Wisconsin
Sam crossed the threshold into organized snowmobiling in 1989 and soon became a leader in his local snowmobile community. After the subsequent merger of two major clubs in Dane County, he became the founding President of the Waunakee Winter Wanderers in 1992 and laid the groundwork Sam Landes for a successful grassroots snowmobile club. At the same time, Sam already spread his dedication of time and talents serving as a delegate since 1989 to the Dane County Council of Snowmobile Clubs. 24
A volunteer Wisconsin DNR certified snowmobile safety instructor, Sam has helped facilitate the safe operation of snowmobiles to countless students and mentored six other instructors, multiplying his impact on safety and education. Government relations are key to monitoring and implementing snowmobile legislation and that is Sam’s strong suit. Sam has served on the Governor’s Snowmobile Recreation Council since 2003. His ability to earn respect and maintain positive relationships with state legislators and WI state governors (from both sides of the aisle) is unparalleled. Sam has worked effectively with both majority and minority leadership, which has been crucial for the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs (AWSC) and the sport of snowmobiling. Sam is a twotime recipient of the AWSC President’s Cup. When it comes to trail preservation, Sam’s proactive approach is evident in his swift and decisive actions during critical legislative measures. He spearheaded the multi-use trail connecting Dane and Sauk counties which led to the construction of a vital and safe bridge over the Wisconsin River. He also led the fight to keep snowmobiling in Blue Mounds State Park. When the WI state snowmobile program faced funding challenges, Sam played a pivotal role in negotiating the development of the current annual trail pass system. Most would regard this as Wisconsin’s most significant snowmobiling legislative measure to date. Sam’s influence extends beyond state borders. When a trail in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula faced closure, he dedicated numerous weekends working with local businesses, volunteers and legislators to preserve this crucial trail system. Sam also played a huge role in the development of the future of snowmobiling through his support of the AWSC’s Kids and Adults On Snowmobiles (KAOS) youth program. This program has spread far beyond the borders of WI and has spilled over to the adoption of similar youth programs in a dozen US states and Canadian provinces. His commitment and genuine passion for the sport of snowmobiling and his desire to ensure its preservation and growth places Sam Landes among those inducted into the International Snowmobiling Hall of Fame, Class of 2025.
Stan & Kate Stutheit
Volunteers & Club Organizers Syracuse, Nebraska
Stan began his snowmobile journey as a youngster on a 1970 Homelite snowmobile taking countless laps around the house. His real involvement in snowmobiling began after graduating college, he would go on multiple snowmobile trips with friends and from there found himself participating in local club functions and attending state association conventions. Stan and Kate were married in 1981, took their first snowmobile trip out west, joined their first snowmobile club and the Nebraska State Snowmobile Association (NSSA) that same year. They both love to ride their snowmobiles traveling every winter to South Dakota, Colorado, Wyoming
Minnesota Snowmobiling
and Montana. They understand the need to protect snowmobile access from state to state and north of the border. Where Stan is, Kate is right by his side. Together they attend state conventions, summer campouts, mountain region riding summits, Midwest chapter meetings and International Snowmobile Stan & Kate Stutheit Congresses. They have been active in the NSSA for decades. Stan has served in many of the positions from Membership Chair to President. Kate has also served in many positions and is currently serving as Publicity/Social Committee Chair. They both are active in the American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA). Stan has attended the ACSA DC FlyIns and Land Summits. He also served on the ACSA board as a delegate for many years. Stan and Kate were instrumental in getting Nebraska to host the 2021 ISC and they co-chaired that successful event despite challenging times in the wake of the Covid crisis. Regardless of all the involvement Stan and Kate have devoted on a national and international level of organized snowmobiling, they never lost touch and remained true to their grassroots local snowmobile club, the Syracuse Snoflakers. Between them they held a position in every office, multiple times. Over the years they invited many folks, new to snowmobiling, on a ride to ensure they had a positive first experience providing them with sleds and all necessary gear. Stan is always sharing information that affects snowmobiling to help engage others on potential trail issues and pending legislation. Kate has gone above and beyond for the snowmobiling youth, organizing special activities and working on the Syracuse scholarship program, anything to keep the young snowmobile enthusiasts engaged for the future of the sport.
central access to winter trails Spacious trailer parking Direct access to trails Complimentary Breakfast Full-service bar & restaurant Pool and oversized hot tub
For several decades, both Stan and Kate have shared their talents as volunteers, exhibiting positivity, outstanding leadership and a strong unwavering dedication to the sport of snowmobiling on all levels. For these reasons, Stan and Kate Stutheit make a solid addition to the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame, Class of 2025. Additional winners:
ISHOF Snowmobile Club of the Year 2025 Sutherland’s Lake Trail Groomers Association Sutherland Lake, Nova Scotia
www.timberlakelodgehotel.com
ISHOF Dealer of the Year 2025
info@timberlakelodgehotel.com
Toy Master/Red Rock Motorsports Winsloe, Prince Edward Island
144 17th St SE, Grand Rapids, MN September 2025
25
Club News
50-year-old Snowmobile Comes Full Circle purchased it a few months prior recently passed away in a tragic auto accident. Ken remembers being 15 years old in August 1974, taking it out of the crate from the factory, and setting it up for the original sale. Fred offered to reach out to the family and see if they would be open to selling their late son’s snowmobile. A few days passed, and much to Tom’s surprise, Fred was able to acquire the Super Brute. Tom remembers Fred pulling up to his house in a van adorned with a toy snowmobile on the roof, Super Brute in tow. Being only 19, Tom didn’t have a checking account or credit card. Fred understood and asked for only $10 as a down payment. Tom paid $10 and Fred left the snowmobile in Tom’s garage — no paperwork, just a handshake and trust. Every story has a beginning, and this one is unique. In a small, two-story house in Little Falls, Minnesota, Fred and Phinee Zak were raising a family of twelve children. Life was not easy, but it was filled with laughter, hard work, and the unmistakable hum of a growing family.
In 2024, Ken Zak, an avid snowmobile enthusiast, found himself drawn back to his childhood — and to one particular snowmobile brand from his youth: Alouette. He began searching online and stumbled upon a listing for a 1974 Alouette Super Brute. The seller? A man named Tom Marthaler. Tom collected Alouettes. He had five Alouettes in total. They sat untouched from 1979 until his son Justin encouraged him to restore the sleds in 2023. That fall, Tom put four up for sale, one being a Super Brute. This one caught Ken Zak’s eye. When the two connected, they realized this was no ordinary sale. Tom had purchased that very sled 50 years earlier from Ken’s father, Fred Zak. Tom reflected on his purchase as he shared his story with Ken. In October of 1974, Tom was 19 and looking for a Super Brute. His search eventually brought him to Little Falls, MN. Tom remembers meeting Fred and his two sons, Ken and Fritz, in a shop/garage behind the house. Upon inquiring about a Super Brute, Fred informed Tom that he no longer had one for sale. However, the young man who
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Phinee wore many hats. She worked part-time at a friend’s bar, and for 33 years drove a school bus, watching generation after generation of local kids grow up through her rearview mirror. Fred, ever the tinkerer, worked as a full-time electrical technician at Camp Ripley. These jobs were not enough to feed 12 mouths, though. In the evenings, Fred turned wrenches on cars in their garage. In the early 1970s, Fred looked for something more — a way to leverage his skills and passion for machines. He found it in snowmobiles. His first line was the Sno Pac, manufactured by Farmington Engineering. By 1972, that company had gone under. Fred didn’t waver. The next year, he took on Alouette snowmobiles, the #2 snowmobile in Canada at the time. While at Alouettes Distribution Center, he noticed a bicycle distributor. Seeing a good opportunity for the snowless months, he added bikes to the summer lineup. The snowmobile industry hit hard times in the wake of the 1973 oil crisis, warm winters, and overproduction. Alouette ceased production after their 1974 models. Rupp acquired the Alouette in 1976 and rebranded them to be
Minnesota Snowmobiling
Club News In 1978, Arctic Cat bought Scorpion. Fred continued to sell Scorpion through this acquisition. However, three years later, Arctic Enterprises collapsed, and Scorpion production stopped. Yet again, Fred was undeterred. In 1982, he made another series of bold moves: buying the remaining Scorpion moped inventory and approx 100 scorpion snowmobiles from Arctic Cat to sell for $895. That year, he also launched Falls Moped, Inc., building mopeds under the name “Mizer.” In 1983, Arctic Cat resumed business under the name Arctco, Inc. Fred and two of his sons, Fritz and Bob, began selling Arctic Cat snowmobiles. The business continued to grow, adding lawnmowers to the mix. sold as Rupp Clones. Fred opted out of selling the Rupp clones. Instead, he remained loyal to the original Alouette brand and he bought all their remaining stock. He sold them for $450 a piece. Always the fighter, Fred pivoted again and picked up Scorpion snowmobiles in 1976. He even bought out the local dealership to secure his exclusivity. Also in 1976, with his friends Jerry Twomey and Cleo Meyer, Fred helped establish the Morrison County Trail Association, carving miles of trail through the countryside. Phinee, Fred’s wife, served as the treasurer of the Morrison County Trail Association from 1978 until 2019. She remained involved with the family business until she passed away in 2020. Her dedication — to family, to community, and to the trail system — helped grow the association to 432 miles of trails, 11 clubs, and 4 groomers.
Fred passed away in 1993, but son’s Fritz and Bob carried the torch. The business, now called West Side Recreation is still in business and sells Arctic Cat, Kymco, Snapper, Hustler, and bicycles — thriving for over 55 years! Coming full circle, Ken Zak now owns the 1974 Super Brute that he personally took out of the crate 50 years earlier. The same one Fred sold to Tom when he was just a teenager. Upon purchasing the snowmobile, Tom even provided Ken with a copy of the original receipt and warranty registration with Fred’s handwriting on them. This turned out to be more than a transaction, it was a reunion of histories, of families, and of legacy. A symbol of what Fred and Phinee had built — not just a business, but a community, a lifestyle, and a trail that continues forward.
MnUSA Platinum Clubs (See page 11 for more information)
Ash River-Kabetogma Snowdrifters
Lincoln Lakes SC
River Valley Trail Blazers
Benton County SC
Longville Snowmobile Club
Scott County Sno Trails
Blue Earth Snow Rovers
Lost River Trails
Sno Barons Snowmobile Club
Cokato Ridge Runners
Mille Lacs Trails
St. Augusta Blizzard Busters
Country Snow Cruisers, Inc
Naytahwaush Nightriders
Tamarack Sno-Flyers
Crow River Sno Pros
Northern Pine Riders
Trail Breakers Inc
Dalton Snow Trashers
Pequaywan Area Trailblazers
Wells Creek Riders
Ely Igloo Snowmobile Club
Pequot Brush Pilots
West Central Trailblazers
Eveleth Trailhawk Snowmobile Club
Reservoir Riders
Hillman Swampstompers
Ridgerunner’s Snowmobile Club
September 2025
27
Club News
Clearwater Trail Blazers Clearwater Trail Blazers Snowmobile Club held their annual dinner for their landowners in April at the American Legion in Bagley. Gift cards, snowmobile clothing and beautiful flowers were given away. Thank you, landowners. Submitted by Gail Friborg, Secretary
Sno-Serpents In July, our club participated in the annual 4th of July Parade in Crosby. The newer trailer was in front of me (blowing snow) to represent today’s snowmobiling. I followed with the older sleds and truck to represent the birth of the Sno-Serpent snowmobile club in 1973. My truck is a 1969 but would still be used back then. The Sno-Serpents club services Crosby, Ironton, Deerwood and Cuyuna and the surrounding area. Submitted by Tom Jann
Byron Snow Bears/ Kasson-Mantorville Snowdrifters This is the 3rd annual Great Southern Swap Meet and Vintage Show being held on Sunday, September 28th at the Dodge County fairgrounds in Kasson. This is a fun event put on by two local clubs to help promote the sport we all love. Plenty of fun, food, vendors, snowmobiles and great people taking part! Submitted by Mike Ness Byron Snow Bears
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Minnesota Snowmobiling
MnUSA Business Partners
REGION
1
Docksider Longville, MN 218-363-2565
Fraternal Order of Eagles Warroad Aerie 4195 Warroad, MN
First State Bank of Bigfork Bigfork, MN 218-743-3145
Dan’s Garage Ely, MN 218-235-1625
Longville Campground Longville, MN 218-363-2610
Upper Red Lake Area Association Waskish, MN 218-556-5844
Golf on the Edge Bigfork, MN 218-743-3626
Ely Chamber Of Commerce Ely, MN 218-365-6123
Kocian’s Family Market Bigfork, MN
√Grand Ely Lodge Ely, MN 218-365-6565
Jerry’s Bar & Restaurant Angle Inlet, MN
Longville Lakes Bottle Shop Longville, MN 218-363-3249
Points North Services Angle Inlet, MN 218-223-4201
Longville Turtle Town Café Longville, MN 218-363-3333
Brustad Land Surveying Bagley, MN 218-694-5280
Motorheads of Longville Longville, MN 218-363-3499
Galen’s Fresh Food Market & Hardware Hank Bagley, MN 218-694-6212
Musky House Marine Longville, MN 218-363-2044
Pinks Repair Bagley, MN 218-694-6575
One Stop Convenience Store Longville, MN 218-363-2252
Gerbracht Logging Baley, MN 218-694-2132
Olson’s Outdoor Sports Mahnomen, MN 218-935-2355
Adrian’s Resort Baudette, MN 218-634-1985
Frontier Sports Marcell, MN
Ballard’s Resort Baudette, MN 218-634-1849
Pinehurst Resort Naytahwaush, MN 218-935-5745
Border Bank Baudette, MN 218-634-3300
Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge Oak Island, MN 218-223-8411
Cyrus Resort Baudette, MN 218-634-2548
Sunset Lodge Resort Oak Island, MN
Lake of the Wood Marine Baudette, MN 218-634-2289 LOW Passenger Service Baudette, MN 218-395-0414 Northern Sports Baudette, MN 218-634-1089 Sportsman’s Lodge Baudette, MN 218-634-1342
Clancy’s on Island Lake Park Rapids, MN 218-732-5270 Emmaville Inn, Inc. Park Rapids, MN 218-732-8544 Heartland Inn Hotel Park Rapids, MN 218-732-1471 Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber Park Rapids, MN
Walleye Capital Sanitation Baudette, MN 218-634-3151
Thelen’s Concrete Products Park Rapids, MN 218-732-1458
Bemidji Sports Centre Bemidji, MN 218-751-4477
Up North Power & Sports Park Rapids, MN 218-237-5670
Visit Bemidji Bemidji, MN 218-444-6081
Wehrs AG Group Park Rapids, MN
Hoot-N-Holler Blackduck, MN 218-659-9225 North Country Hardware Clearbrook, MN 218-776-3615 Lobo’s Bar & Grill Lake Itasca, MN 218-266-3611 Side Track Tap Bar & Grill Leonard, MN 218-968-2304 Anchorage Inn Longville, MN 218-363-2236
“√” Denotes Show Your Card Member Discount New Business Partner highlighted in yellow
Zorbaz in Park Rapids Park Rapids, MN 218-237-1969 LTC Water Control St Paul, MN 651-329-2732 Visit Thief River Falls Thief River Falls, MN 218-686-9785 √Country Inn - Walker Walker, MN 218-547-1400 Lakes Area Power Sports Walker, MN 218-547-1558
Carrot’s Auto Body Waubun, MN 218-473-2417
Loon Point Resort Bigfork, MN 218-245-1470
REGION
2
40 Club Restaurant & Bar Aitkin, MN 218-927-7090 Aitkin Flyers Aitkin, MN 218-927-2557 Farm Island Store Aitkin, MN 218-927-3791 Midwest Machinery Co. Aitkin, MN 218-927-2140 Mudflats Bar & Grill Aitkin, MN 218-678-3122 Paulbeck’s Country Market Aitkin, MN 218-927-6919
Powell Auto Sales & Service Bigfork, MN 218-743-3795
Ash Trail Lodge Ash River, MN 218-374-3131 Ash-Ka-Nam Resort Ash River, MN 218-374-3181 Frontier Resort Ash River, MN 866-950-2986 Big Falls Liquor Store Big Falls, MN 218-276-3333 Pritchards Corner Big Falls, MN 218-276-3400 Antler Lake Store & Motel Inc. Bigfork, MN 218-245-2369
Thunderbird Lodge International Falls, MN 218-286-3151 Up North Builders, Inc. International Falls, MN 218-285-3635
√Fortune Bay Resort Casino Tower, MN 218-753-6400
Hillcrest Resort McGregor, MN 218-426-3323
Lake Vermilion House Boats Inc Tower, MN 218-753-3548
Mark’s Bar McGregor, MN 218-426-8040 McGregor Ace Hardware McGregor, MN 218-419-2920 McGregor Realty McGregor, MN 218-244-7242
Schlemmer Electric Bloomington, MN 612-296-6000
Rock Country Masonry Ely, MN 218-235-3471
Rons Korner Market Bovey, MN 218-247-7351
5 Seasons Sports Center Inc Eveleth, MN 218-744-5874
√Arrowhead Lodge Resort & Outfitters Kabetogama, MN 218-875-2141
Minnesota National Golf Club & Resort McGregor, MN 218-426-4444
At Your Convenience Eveleth, MN 218-744-1509
Border Guide Service Kabetogama, MN 218-324-2430
Northland Parts McGregor, MN 218-768-3132
BoomTown Woodfire Grill & Brewery Eveleth, MN 218-248-8381
Kec’s Kove Resort Kabetogama, MN 218-875-2841
School House Café/ The Country House McGregor, MN 218-768-2403
Dawghouse Bar & Grill LLC Canyon, MN 218-345-8830 Cloquet Pines Retreat Cloquet, MN Nelson Funeral Care Cloquet, MN 218-879-3225 Reliable Insurance Agency Cloquet, MN 218-514-7705
√Lake Vermilion Resort Association Cook, MN 218-666-5850
Tire Barn Aitkin, MN 218-927-1444
The Junction International Falls, MN 218-283-3339
Grand Timber Bank McGregor, MN 218-768-2410
Jensen Concrete Pumping & Services LLC Jacobson, MN 651-230-4663
Riverside Pub Aitkin, MN 218-927-3915
The Landing Aitkin, MN 218-927-9998
Ranier Municipal Liquor International Falls, MN 218-286-3343
Meld Electric Tamarack, MN 320-267-8918
Paddle Inn Motel Ely, MN 218-365-6036
√Florio’s Grill & Tavern Cohasset, MN 218-999-7077
The Glen Store and Grill Aitkin, MN 320-684-2229
Kuehl’s Logging LLC Ely, MN 218-365-5504
Rainy Lake One Stop International Falls, MN 218-286-5700
Glen’s Sign Dezine McGregor, MN 218-426-4009
The Shop Bigfork, MN 218-743-3666
Pine Inn Aitkin, MN 320-684-2452
Security State Insurance Aitkin, MN 218-927-3712
Joe’s Marine & Repair Inc Ely, MN 218-365-6264
Island View Lodge International Falls, MN
The Old Muni Cook, MN 218-780-8242
√Iron Range Tourism Bureau Eveleth, MN 218-969-1755 Margies Roosevelt Bar Eveleth, MN 218-744-2121 Super 8 - Eveleth Eveleth, MN 218-297-0782 Timber’s Edge Bar & Grill Eveleth, MN 218-744-2627 Mainline Station Floodwood, MN 218-476-2222
Vermilion Hotel Cook, MN 218-666-2272 Wilbert Café & El Toro Lounge Cotton, MN 218-482-3318
The Event Center Floodwood, MN Blackberry Junction Grand Rapids, MN 763-442-8012
Eagle Lake Plumbing Cromwell, MN 218-644-3010
√Jig Rock Ranch Grand Rapids, MN 218-244-6797
Bowstring Shores Resort Deer River, MN 218-832-3101
Mississippi Diamond Jewelers Grand Rapids, MN 218-326-6242
Outpost Bar and Grill Deer River, MN 218-246-9868 Riley’s Cannibal Jct Deer River, MN 218-832-3656 El Oasis Del Norte Duluth, MN 218-464-0824 Effie Country Service Effie, MN 218-743-3616 Neighborhood Tavern, LLC. Effie, MN
Visit Grand Rapids Grand Rapids, MN 218-326-9607 Wildwood Resort Grand Rapids, MN 218-328-5858 Trails Inn Quadna Mountain Motel and RV Park Hill City, MN 218-506-8030 International Falls CVB International Falls, MN 218-283-9401
September 2025
Sandy Point Lodge, Inc Kabetogama, MN 218-875-2615 The Rocky Ledge Kabetogama, MN 218-875-3481 Cedar Point Resort Marcell, MN 218-832-3808 Edge of the Wilderness Lodging Association Marcell, MN 888-754-0011 Edge of the Wilderness Realty Marcell, MN 218-832-4000 Lakeside Lumber & Hardware Marcell, MN 218-832-3300
Meyer’s Service McGregor, MN 218-426-0026
Willeys Marine & Sports McGregor, MN 218-426-4350 √Melrude Whistle Stop Melrude, MN 218-969-5632 City of Mizpah Mizpah, MN
Floe International Inc McGregor, MN 800-336-6337
REGION
3
Brothers Motorsports Baxter, MN 218-829-6656 √Cragun’s Resort Brainerd, MN 800-272-4867 Green Lantern Bar & Grill Brainerd, MN 218-764-2323 √Kavanaugh’s Resort Brainerd, MN 218-829-5226
Canvasworks Inc SnoCaps Cokato, MN 320-559-0165
Northland Progressive Inc. Northome, MN Northome Grocery Northome, MN 218-897-5261
√Oveson’s Pelican Lake Resort & Inn Orr, MN 218-757-3613
Fisherman’s Bay McGregor, MN 218-426-4662
Edwards Oil Virginia, MN 218-741-9634
Fisher’s Petroleum, Inc. Northome, MN 218-897-5249
Timberwolf Inn Marcell, MN 218-832-3990
Dependable Demolition McGregor, MN 218-820-0174
Vermilion Club Tower, MN 218-753-6277
The Barn Inn at Solid Rock Browerville, MN 218-296-1205
North Star Lake Resort Marcell, MN 218-832-3131
√Big Sandy Lodge & Resort McGregor, MN 218-426-5040
Tavern in the Bay Tower, MN 218-753-8888
Mizpah Community Events Mizpah, MN
Northome Municipal Liquor Northome, MN 218-897-9501
√Bann’s Bar & Restaurant McGregor, MN 218-426-3450
Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association
MJ’s Lodge & Resort Pengilly, MN 218-885-1093 Boondocks Bar & Grill Ray, MN 218-875-2700 Swan River Redeye Swan River, MN 218-492-4512 Hayslips Corner Talmoon, MN 218-832-3516 City of Tamarack Tamarack, MN 218-768-0975
Lincoln Area Business Association Cushing, MN 800-462-0203 Hansen Sports on Bay Lake Deerwood, MN 218-678-2051 Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge Deerwood, MN 218-678-2885 Anderson Carpet Service Elk River, MN ERX Motor Park Elk River, MN 763-722-4977 Emily Ace Hardware Emily, MN 218-763-2691 Frank’s Resort Emily, MN 218-763-2246 Lake Country Foods Emily, MN 218-763-7700 Log Cabin Bar Emily, MN 218-763-2591 29
MnUSA Business Partners NAK Machining & Repair Emily, MN 218-838-8795
ATV Minnesota Stacy, MN 800-442-8826
Caledonia Lumber Caledonia, MN 507-725-3381
Redding’s Sports & Spirits Emily, MN 218-763-2191
Ross Seelhammer Plumbing Wadena, MN 218-371-1623
S&A Petroleum Lanesboro, MN 507-467-2121
Castaways Bar, Restaurant & Camp Isle, MN 320-684-2380 Fishers Resort Isle, MN 320-684-2221 Zorbaz on Gull Lake Shore, MN 218-963-4790 The Trailer Center Long Prairie, MN 320-732-6161 Friendly Inn of Lincoln Motley, MN 218-575-3295 Hoffbeck Electric and Design Nisswa, MN218-963-9568 Re/Max Results - Denise Beneke Outing, MN 612-269-3490 Reds Storage Outing, MN 218-513-3635 Mavericks Saloon Pine City, MN 320-629-6299 Waste Partners Pine River, MN 218-587-8727 RE/MAX Results - Alex Hartmann Remer, MN 651-334-5000 Lund Manufacturing / Sledbed Royalton, MN 320-584-4800 √AmericInn of Sauk Centre Sauk Centre, MN 320-352-2800 √Centre Powersports & Marine Sauk Centre, MN 320-351-7669 Country Cat Sauk Centre, MN 320-351-4481
REGION
4
Brewster’s Bar & Grill Lonsdale, MN 507-744-2370
Country Corner Bar Brookston, MN Billy’s Bar & Grill Duluth, MN 218-525-4720
King’s Bar & Grill Miesville, MN 651-437-1418
Grover Farm Amboy, MN 507-381-7385
Blue Max Duluth, MN 218-721-4255
Holiday Inn Fairmont, MN 507-238-4771
St. Patrick’s Tavern & Restaurant New Prague, MN 952-758-2380
Visit Fairmont Fairmont, MN 507-235-8585
Union Hill Bar & Grill New Prague, MN 952-758-4239
C & A Pro Skis Hutchinson, MN 320-587-7707
√Sette Sports Center Inc Owatonna, MN 507-451-6922
Fahey Flooring Le Sueur, MN
Preston Equipment Co. Preston, MN 507-765-3803
County Line Ag Madelia, MN 507-380-9015
Breeze Inn Duluth, MN 218-525-2883
Millers Market St. Charles, MN 507-932-3760
Southern MN High Pressure Piping Madelia, MN 507-621-0177 Action Sports Inc Marshall, MN 507-532-9649
Brewskies Bar & Grill Utica, MN 507-932-3485
Marshall Machine Shop Marshall, MN 507-532-3613
D & M Body Shop Inc Waseca, MN 507-835-5480
New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce New Ulm, MN 507-233-4300
Cedar Valley Resort & Outfitters Whalan, MN 507-467-9000
5
United Employees Credit Union Albert Lea, MN 507-377-1616
Winters Recreation Sauk Centre, MN 320-351-7533
Mauers Bros. Tavern Altura, MN 507-932-9957
Jauss Properties Duluth, MN 218-728-4523
Pequaywan Inn Duluth, MN 218-848-2201 Sheet Metal Solutions Duluth, MN 218-721-4424 Crooked Lake Resort Finland, MN 218-220-0211
REGION
6
Friends of Finland Finland, MN 218-353-0300
Trailside Lounge & Grill, Inc Meadowlands, MN 218-427-2773 Hoss Construction Saginaw, MN 218-393-4261 LaBerge Logging & Contracting Silver Bay, MN 218-226-3586 √AmericInn By Wyndham Tofte Tofte, MN 218-663-7899
Max Steininger Inc. Eagan, MN 651-454-6620
√Chopper City Sports Fridley, MN 763-572-2100 Hardline Exteriors LLC Lakeville, MN 651-242-4740 √Lighthouse Motorsports & Marine Rosemount, MN 651-322-4420 √Century Power Sports Stillwater, MN 651-439-2035
Weis Eye Center, PA Hermantown, MN 218-625-1917 √Knotted Pine Inn & Tavern Isabella, MN 218-323-7681 Moose Country Tile & Stone Lutsen, MN
United Community Bank Perham, MN 218-346-5700
Minnesota Snowmobile Education & Advancement Fund Minneapolis, MN 763-560-8281
Donnelly Co-Op Donnelly, MN 320-246-3555
Ruther Excavating Inc. Richville, MN 218-298-1477
AgCountry Farm Credit Elbow Lake, MN 218-685-5311
Farmers Cooperative Oil Association Wendell, MN 218-685-4491
Wrico Stamping Company of MN Minneapolis, MN 763-559-2288
Farmers Agency Elbow Lake, MN 218-685-6880
The Doublewide New Market, MN 952-461-3682
√AmericInn by Wyndham - Two Harbors Two Harbors, MN 218-834-3000
Charlie’s on Prior Prior Lake, MN 952-226-5253 Doherty’s Tavern Prior Lake, MN 952-447-9010 Hennen’s Auto Service Shakopee, MN 952-445-2478
Cooperative Light & Power Two Harbors, MN 218-834-2226
O’Brien’s Public House Shakopee, MN 952-217-5490
Harbor Insurance Two Harbors, MN 218-834-2114 KAZ Contracting Service Two Harbors, MN 218-576-7759
Hollywood Sports Complex Watertown, MN 952-955-2424
Lovin’ Lake County Two Harbors, MN 218-595-2800
REGION
9
Sonju Two Harbors Sports Center Two Harbors, MN 218-414-7639
Grant County Lumber Elbow Lake, MN 218-685-5321
OTHER MEMBERS V & V Insurance Agency Inc Cresco, IA 563-547-2161
Haley Oil Company Elbow Lake, MN 218-685-4466
MWO Media Burr Ridge, IL 630-887-7722
Midwest Machinery Elbow Lake, MN 218-332-0550
Cajun Tie Downs Inc Crowley, LA 866-794-9932
Frontier Marine & Powersports Fergus Falls, MN 218-998-4386
AmericInn of Calumet Calumet, MI 906-934-6115
AJ’s Gas & Grocery Herman, MN 320-677-2300 Lakeside Seed Company Herman, MN 320-677-8008
Runestone Telecom Association Hoffman, MN 320-986-2013
Texas Crossing Bar & Grill Wahpeton, ND 701-642-1991
Duane Rau Trucking Kensington, MN
Absolute Insurance West Fargo, ND 701-365-0515
Superior Shores Resort Two Harbors, MN
Ollie’s Service Alexandria, MN 320-763-4455
Warner Garage Door New York Mills, MN 218-385-2853
TH Auto Inc. Two Harbors, MN 218-834-6167
Winning Edge Graphics Alexandria, MN 320-763-7953
54K LLC Norcross, MN
Two Harbors Federal Credit Union Two Harbors, MN 218-834-2266
Alsager Meats LLLP Audubon, MN 218-439-6909
REGION
8
Belle Plaine Equipment Sales Belle Plaine, MN 612-902-2773 Idea Builders LLC Golden Valley, MN 612-245-8040 Kassbohrer ATV - Pisten Bully Jordan, MN 952-345-3330 Ox Yoke Inn Maple Plain, MN 763-479-2522
Minnesota Snowmobiling
Spud’s Small Engine Service & Repair Barrett, MN 320-528-2299 Battle Lake Inn Battle Lake, MN 218-862-2500 Bleachers Sports Bar & Grill Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-6820 Detroit Lakes Express Inc Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-8049 Okeson Offtrail Sales Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-9304 T.S. Recreational, Inc Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-3033
ArcticFX Washington, MI 586-786-9851 Simonson Station Stores, Inc. Grand Forks, ND 701-772-3971
Tender Hearts Home Care New York Mills, MN 218-385-3466
Pit 611 Audubon, MN 218-439-6121
Stud Boy Traction Ravenna, MI 231-853-2323
DHS Grain Ltd. Hoffman, MN 320-986-2467
Brothers Market Alexandria, MN 320-762-8121
Superior Hiking Trail Assn Two Harbors, MN 218-834-2700
Wildhurst Lodge & Campgrounds Inc Finland, MN 218-353-7337 Johnson Supply Co. Hermantown, MN 218-722-1717
Venom Products, LLC Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-3283
√Dent Werks PDR Plymouth, MN 612-599-7719
Castle Haven, Inc Two Harbors, MN 218-834-4303
Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association
Friederichs Auctions Minneapolis, MN 763-591-1642
American Legion Post 109 Two Harbors, MN 218-834-4141
Trestle Inn Finland, MN 218-830-0523
√Northway Sports East Bethel, MN 763-413-8988 REGION
Hi Banks Resort Duluth, MN 888-924-3355
Outlaw Services LLC Duluth, MN 218-343-0689
√Nelson Tours Spicer, MN 320-894-5839
Tony’s Grain Systems and Buildings Winnebago, MN 507-525-5800
Do North Sportsmen’s Edition Duluth, MN 218-721-3568
Marshall Hardware Duluth, MN 218-525-3638
BJ’s Bar & Grill Theilman, MN 507-534-3590
√Spicer Sports & Marine Spicer, MN 320-796-2185
√Beaver Bay Sports Beaver Bay, MN 218-226-4666 Hugo’s Bar Brimson, MN 218-848-2220
Rail 19 Bar & Grill Lonsdale, MN 507-744-5528
Westside Sports Wadena, MN 218-631-1113
Phil Polipnick Insurance Sauk Centre, MN 320-352-6171
30
7
Little Dandy Sports Bar Le Center, MN
The Pickled Loon Saloon Emily, MN 218-763-4402
Lake Country Properties Emily, MN 218-763-3800
REGION
Lake Front Bar & Grill Le Center, MN
Ryder Loon Lodge LLC Emily, MN 612-801-9687
√Wigwam Motel Emily, MN 218-763-2995
“√” Denotes Show Your Card Member Discount New Business Partner highlighted in yellow
Joe’s Backhoe Ottertail, MN 218-371-6923 Ottertail Aggregate Ottertail, MN 218-367-2581
Custom Manufacturing Clinton, WI 608-676-2282 Ultimate Snow Groomer Drags Galesville, WI 608-539-4600 Lake Chippewa Flowage Resort Assn. Hayward, WI Lulich Implement Mason, WI 715-746-2477
Voltedge Electric Ottertail, MN 218-637-3725
Track Inc - Tucker SnoCat Dealer Monico, WI 952-888-7372
√Lakes Inn at Dunvilla Pelican Rapids, MN 218-863-8000
Arrowhead Groomers/ Hamblen Equipment St Germain, WI 715-479-4200
√Grandstay Hotel & Suites - Perham Perham, MN 218-346-2033 New Horizons Realty Perham, MN 218-346-7767 Perham Area Chamber of Commerce Perham, MN 218-346-7710 Steve’s Sanitation Perham, MN 218-346-4834
√Marsh’s View Point Resort Wascott, WI 715-466-2447 √Wyoming High Country Lodge Lovell, WY 307-529-0914 Northwest Outlet Inc Superior, WI LaVallee Inc Mississauga, ON 905-670-1588
2025-2026 Club News Submission Form Please use this form as a guideline when submitting your club news for publishing in Minnesota Snowmobiling. It is not necessary to use this form (emails gladly accepted) but please make sure to include all pertinent contact information. Club News should be items of interest to the snowmobile community as a whole—sharing ideas about successful events held, trail projects and improvements, ways to promote membership growth, etc. To accommodate all clubs wishing to submit their news, we ask that you submit a Club News article no more than two times a year, keeping the length of your article to around 250 words or less with a photo, and 500 or less without a photo. We encourage you to send high-resolution photos (300 dpi or greater) of your club’s activities, including captions describing the event and/or the people shown. All submissions due by 4 p.m. of deadline date. Club Name: ____________________________________________________________________ Town/City and County: ___________________________________________________________ Written by/Title: ________________________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________ Email:____________________________________________ Photo Caption (if photo is being submitted): _______________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Club News (Please submit on a separate page):
2025-2026 DEADLINES FOR CLUB NEWS Month Sep. 2025 Oct. 2025 Nov. 2025 Dec. 2025 Jan. 2026 Feb. 2026 Mar. 2026
Club News 7/30/25 8/29/25 9/30/25 10/29/25 11/26/25 12/27/25 2/13/26
Mail Date 8/22/25 9/27/25 10/27/25 11/24/25 12/23/25 1/26/26 3/10/26
Send Club News submissions to: Editor, Scott J. Wakefield Oliver1650@icloud.com 12620 Co. Rd. 30, Waconia, MN 55387 Phone: 612-483-5638 (text) Or email: mnusa@mwomedia.com
New in-stock sleds arriving daily! Now is the time to service your sled for the upcoming season. Call your local
dealer to schedule a maintenance appointment.
Chopper Powersports Fridley 763-572-2100 Chopperpowersports.com
Chopper Powersports Maple Plain 763-479-3719 Chopperpowersports.com
Duluth Lawn & Sport Duluth 218-628-3718 duluthlawnandsport.com Podein’s Power Equipment Stewartville 507-533-8841 podeinspowerequipment.com
Davis Motorsports Delano 763-972-5045 davismotorsportsdelano.com
Hansen Sports on Bay Lake Deerwood 218-678-2051 hansensonbaylake.com
Ray’s Sport & Cycle Grand Rapids 218-326-9355 rayssportandcycle.com
Stacy Hardware & Powersports Stacy 651-462-4342 stacyhardware.com
WARNING: Professional rider on a closed course. Polaris® recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride.