inside - michigan snowmobile [email protected] jim duke (906) 387-3941 home (906)...

Uniting Snowmobilers to Keep Trails Open

October 2015WWW.MSASNOW.ORG

PRSRT STDU.S POSTAGE

PAIDFENTON, MI

PERMIT # 1776

The Official Publication of the Michigan Snowmobile Association Making Sure You Have a Place to Ride Your Snowmobile!

Inside: • Two Michigan Riders

Join Epic MichCanSka Adventure

• Meeting Highlights Importance of Groomer Driver Maintenance

©2015 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. Products in the United States (US) are distributed by BRP US Inc. Always ride safely and responsibly.

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CIRCULATION: The Michigan Snowmobile News is the official publication of the Michigan Snowmobile Association, Inc., and is distributed as part of the membership benefits of MSA. It is also circulated through select promotional distribution. The Michigan Snowmobile News is published six times a year (September, October, November, December, January/February and March). WARNING: Some of the photographs in this publication show action that may be potentially dangerous. We encourage safe operation of all snowmobile equipment and advise you not to attempt to duplicate any action that is seen on these pages. Let your experience and skill guide you. The views and opinions expressed by our readers are not necessarily those of the Michigan Snowmobile Association or the Michigan Snowmobile News staff.

E-Mail Addresses Needed: – We are looking to update and enlarge our e-mail database. Please contact the MSA office and give us your e-mail address. Also, help us save on postage. You can receive your Michigan Snowmobile News online. For more information, call (616) 361-2285. The MSA does not sell or provide your e-mail address or other confidential information to outside sources. MSA only uses e-mail addresses for important news blasts, calls to action or distribution of your Michigan Snowmobile News.

Buy Your Trail Permit From MSA’s Office Directly: – For every trail permit MSA sells, $1.43 goes directly to MSA. One dollar goes to MSA as the trail permit seller, and $.43 goes to MSA as the trail permit distributor.

When MSA sells 30,000 trail permits through the office or our Web site, those funds allow staff and the officers to attend important meetings and monitor the issues. Meetings that affect our trails and access go on weekly in the state. If we are not there, we are forgotten. We have to be represented at these meetings and protect our right to ride.

Photo Contest: – Don’t forget to submit last year’s ride photos to the Michigan Snowmobile News photo contest. Your photo could be on the cover of next month’s magazine. E-mail your submission to [email protected].

MSA News You Can Use

4 President’s Desk

5 Safety First, Safety Always!

5 Calendar of Events

6 Legislative Report

8How Loud is a Snowmobile? First in a series of articles on snowmobiles and noise levels on Michigan’s trails.

9Groomer Driver Workshop -- an Emphasis on Maintenance Event set for Oct. 24; groomer drivers to discuss how to reduce the high maintenance costs of equipment.

112015 Scholarship Winners Take a look at this year’s winning essays. MSA announces 2015 scholarship winners.

12MichCanSka World Tour Two MSA members join 60 others in epic adventure; riding trails in Michigan, Canada, Finland, Sweden, and Russia.

14 News Notes

18 Al Green Memorial Ride Friends and family take ride in MSA vice president’s memory.

22 Snowmobile Marketplace & Snowmobile Destinations

Volume 7 • Issue 2

page 9 page 12 page 18

On the Cover: As Fall 2015 in Michigan arrives, it’s a great time to plan and organize snowmobile trips for the coming season and to make sure that your sled is ready to ride!

Magazine Deadlines:To have your announcements or information included in the pages of the

Michigan Snowmobile News please submit by the following deadlines:

November – Oct. 24December – Nov. 25

Jan/Feb – Dec. 6March – Feb. 10

Michigan Snowmobile Association4543 S. Division Ave Wyoming, MI 49548(616) 361-2285 Fax (616) 363-0661 • www.msasnow.orgOffice StaffExecutive Director : Bill Manson [email protected] : Karen Middendorp [email protected]

2015 Executive BoardPresident: Ron Corbett(989) 306-0419 cell • [email protected] Interim Vice President: Rick Brown(269) 624-1083 home [email protected] Secretary: Dan Moore (906) 748-3419 • [email protected]: John Houk(989) 734-7359 home • (989) 306-2545 [email protected] Past President: Bruce Wood(231) 675-7669 cell [email protected]

2015 Executive CommitteeREGION 1 - U.P.Dan Moore (906) 748-3419 [email protected] Scott (906) 842-3217 home (906) 458-3785 cell [email protected] Jim Duke (906) 387-3941 home (906) 235-8270 cell [email protected] Karyn Hautamaki (906) 235-8271 cell [email protected] Stu Volkers (906) 297-3060 home (906) 235-1109 cell • [email protected] REGION 2 - NORTHERN LOWER MIJohn Houk (989) 734-7359 home (989) 306-2545 cell • [email protected] Rod Altman (989) 734-4557 home [email protected] Don Wing (231) 775-3901 home (231) 846-7126 cell • [email protected] Kelts (248) [email protected] Dave Cuzzort (989) [email protected]

REGION 3 - SOUTHERN MIDavid Low (269) 792-2707 home (616) 550-2707 cell • [email protected] Rick Brown (269) 624-1083 home [email protected] Ron VanderVliet(616) 772-4949 home • (616) 218-3736 [email protected] Goss (231) [email protected] Cody (734) [email protected]

All M.S.A. Officers will be more than willing to take calls at home, but ask that all correspondence be directed to the M.S.A. office.STAFFPublisher: Michigan Snowmobile AssociationManaging Editor: Marie Grogitsky Graphic Designer: Robert MillerAdvertising Sales: Marie Grogitsky (810) 348-4855 [email protected]

Plan For Success on Your Next Snowmobile Ride

PresidentBY RON CORBETT

A s an organization, the Michigan Snowmobile Association (MSA) is built around safety -- safe, responsible riding. As riders, when we plan trips, we need to plan them to be success-ful. We need to organize, communicate, and create a checklist.

Of course a half-day trip or a one-day trip is easier to plan in terms of organization. Three-day, four-day and week-long trips do require more organization. However, both shorter and longer trips should always include a focus on safety.

Some considerations of a successful ride include all riders carrying medical information, cell phones, other riders cell phone numbers, and a satellite phone if cell phone service isn’t available.

Those on the ride should also consider the size of the group on that particular ride. I’ve been on rides with four to seven people or even 17 people. I’ve also been on trips with up to 60 riders. Those entail a lot more work and consideration to detail.

Know What to ExpectAs a seasoned rider I feel it is most important that everyone on the ride should be aware of what

is going to happen on that particular ride.I have found that communication and planning are also important tools of any snowmobile trip.

All riders should know what the ride includes from start to finish. Every rider should know the trail route, rest stops to be taken, stops for gas, and even where and

what time lunch is planned. Leaders should communicate all of this to everyone on the ride. The better the communication, the better the ride.

A good rule to follow when coordinating breaks (what time and exact location) is plan to ride 23-25 mph and map those stops along your predetermined destination. Let everyone on the ride know those stops.

Make a ChecklistThere are important things to go over with every rider on the trip. People who ride with each

other a lot are used to each other and their riding styles, but someone new on that ride doesn’t know other’s styles. Communicate before the ride begins.

We all know that we are responsible for the rider behind us. We know that newer riders should ride close to the front, but we still need to make sure that newer rider is acquainted with checklist.

Be informed, but by the same token, when an emergency comes up have the tools to deal with that emergency. Went I went to Alaska with MichCanSka, we had a six-page safety document with us. Most of us were older riders so we also carried a defibrillator with us. We were prepared for anything.

Leaders are the ones overall responsible for the group of riders. A leader makes sure the speed is right for the riding conditions and expertise levels on that trip. The leader has to constantly make sure that everyone is being safe and the navigation for the route is understood and being followed.

Planning to be successful on the ride you are on is very important and this should always include a checklist of what is expected on that ride. Everyone can develop their own list, but remember safety, organization, and communication when making that list.

4 OCTOBER 2015 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILE NEWS • MSASNOW.ORG

CALENDAR OF EVENTSOct 9-11: MSA Annual Meeting at the Mission Point Resort, Mackinac Island. For more information, see page 7.

Nov. 6-8: Snowmobile USA Show at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi. For more information, call (608) 223-6550.

Dec 1: Snowmobile Trails Officially open!

Dec. 3: Snowmobile Advisory Workgroup (SAW) will meet. Date TBA.

Dec. 5: MSA Board of Directors Meeting will meet. Date TBA. For more information, call the MSA office at (616) 361-2285.

Saturday, Oct. 17: The class is being sponsored by the Snomads, and will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will be held at the Roseville Parks and Rec Authority, 18185 Sycamore Rd., Roseville. For more information, call (586) 445-5480.

Saturday, Oct. 24: The class is being sponsored by the Snomads, and will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will be held at the Ira Township Parks and Rec, 7065 Meldrum Rd., Ira. To register, call (586) 725-0263.

Saturday, Nov. 7: The class is being sponsored by the Snomads, and will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will be held at the Suburban Collection Showplace on Grand River. To register, visit SnomadS.org.

Saturday, Nov. 7: The class is being sponsored by the Sault Ste. Marie Snowmobile Association. It will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The class will be held at the Association’s clubhouse at 1205 9th St. W., Sault. Lunch will be provided

free for course attendees. Lunch is donated by the Sault Ste. Marie Snowmobile Association., U.P. Tire, & Allstar Marine. For more information, call Mary at the DNR office at (906) 635 6161.

Saturday, Nov. 21: The class is being sponsored by the Snomads, and will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will be held at the Livonia MI Parks and Rec, 33000 Civic Center Livonia. For more information, call (734) 466-2200.

Saturday, Dec. 5: The class is being sponsored by the Frankenmuth Snowmobile Club. It will run from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Frankenmuth Conservation Club, 8415 E. Curtis Rd., Frankenmuth. There is a $5 fee. For more information, contact Ed Roedel at (989) 823-2225.

Saturday, Dec. 5: The class is being sponsored by the Newaygo County Sno Chasers. It will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Newaygo County Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4684 Evergreen Drive M37. Pre register by Dec. 3.

For more information, call Dale Johnson at (231) 924-5643. Those attending are reminded to have warm clothing. Class includes about one half hour of outside.

Saturday, Dec. 5: The class is being sponsored by the Ogemaw Hills Snowmobile Club. Class will start at 8 a.m. and run until 3 p.m. The class and lunch is provided free of charge. For more information, call (989) 473-3062. Space is limited to 25 students.

Saturday, Dec. 28: The class is being sponsored by the Les Cheneaux Snowmobile Club, and will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will be held at the club house on Blindline Rd., Cedarville. Students can register at the schools in Cedarville, DeTour and Pickford. They can pick up the application at those schools and bring back the completed application in exchange for a study book. For more information, call Stuart Volkers at (906) 235-1109.

Jan.16-24, 2016: International Snowmobile Safety Week. Many local clubs and snowmobile associations take this time to teach snowmobilers about safe riding. Many dealerships help by putting on seminars, teaching customers how to maintain their sleds, and keep them running in top condition. Visit www.snowmobile.org and download a Safety Week Campaign Action Manual with ideas on how to promote safety week and ideas for putting on safety week events.

Jan. 22-23, 2016: The 10th Michigan Snow Run event to benefit the Pink Ribbon Riders will be held at the Eagles Lodge in Gaylord. The Pink Ribbon Riders provide direct financial assistance to men and women diagnosed with breast cancer. The event is open to both men and women and includes a welcome party that incorporates a prom theme this year to celebrate the 10th anniversary, a ride on Saturday, followed by a dinner banquet and award presentations. Participants are encouraged to decorate their sleds and take part in the bra decorating contest! You can earn free registration by raising pledges for the cause! For more information, visit, www.pinkribbonriders.com.

Feb. 5-15: The 8th annual TAKE A FRIEND SNOWMOBILING WEEK. Consider partnering with local clubs and other local businesses to encourage non-snowmobiling friends or those who haven’t been snowmobiling for a while to join us for a time of fun. Many have tried snowmobiling for the first time with the experience resulting in the purchase of a snowmobile and joining a club and association – all because somebody asked them to come along. For more information and ideas on throwing a TAKE A FRIEND SNOWMOBILING event, visit www.gosnowmobiling.org.

Safety firSt, Safety alwayS!SAFETY CLASSES 2015-16

MSASNOW.ORG • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILE NEWS • OCTOBER 2015 5

I t’s a question, every snowmobiler in Michi-gan has to ask themselves -- How much are you willing to pay for smooth snowmobile

trails in Michigan?The cost of grooming equipment and

maintenance continues to rise while funding for the Snowmobile Trail Improvement Program continues to remain the same, even decrease. The cost of fuel has stabilized, but the cost of equipment will continue to increase. Something has to change.

The average cost of a John Deere tractor, fully equipped with Soucy tracks now costs more than $265,000. In 2014 the average piece of equipment (tractor) came in at $225,000, so that’s what was budgeted this year. Due to new tier-three diesel engines (EPA rules), increased steel, and increased production costs the equipment came in at that higher price. That’s $40,000 more per unit. Those funds are not in this year’s snowmobile budget.

Last month I explained that we may dip into next year’s equipment budget to purchase all of the equipment, and that is what is going to happen. We will be able to purchase seven or eight pieces of equipment with this year’s funds and two or three will be purchased out of next year’s budget, which began on Oct. 1

All of that equipment will be on our snowmobile trails for this season, and if nothing changes, next year we will be forced to cut down on equipment purchases.

Aging EquipmentThere are 68 grant sponsors who service

the trails in Michigan. In the Lower Peninsula, those sponsors have 98 pieces of equipment in service. In the Upper Peninsula there are 87 in service.

That equipment ranges from 20 years old to new this year. All of that equipment has to be maintained, repaired, and replaced. Cutting the

equipment budget will hurt smooth trails in Michigan.

This brings us right back to the question, how much are you willing to pay for smooth snowmobile trails in Michigan?

Consider this, the total number of miles groomed by Michigan’s 68 grant sponsors last season was 440,067. Every mile of trail was groomed 68 times (on average). This is done to make sure that your ride was what you have come to expect it to be in Michigan. Of course, this is just an average. On weekends there are some miles of trail that are groomed twice a day to make sure you get your bang for your “trail permit” buck.

Additions to the Trail SystemYet, another thing to consider is the

continued expansion of our trails system. Every year we strive at bettering our trail system. This year we have two new trail expansions -- both brand new trails.

The first is 25 miles will run from Mesick to Copemish on the Benzie and Manistee trails connector which includes a bridge repair over Manistee river to the tune of $1.5 million (This is being cost shared by other users.)

The second is a 15 mile connector north of Topinabee over to Pellston, connecting North Central trails and North Western Trails.

There are several various new connecters in the U.P. in the planning stages. With additional miles to our trail system, comes additional access -- and both carry additional costs.

Again, I ask, how much are you willing to pay for smooth snowmobile trails in Michigan?

I know that everyone is thinking -- if you don’t have it in the budget, you need to cut back a little here and there. We have spent countless hours looking at where cuts can be made. We are at the point where drastic changes are going to have to be made. It is

only a matter of time before the amount of miles groomed in Michigan is cut back as well as equipment purchases. Either way, our trails, your trails will suffer.

In the March 2015 Legislative Column in this magazine I discussed the proposal to raise the trail permit fee for those riders who are not members of the Michigan Snowmobile Association (MSA). Perhaps a better way to put it is a new discounted trail permit for MSA members. We have the legislation written and have sought a state legislator to introduce this legislation. To date, we cannot secure legislative sponsorship.

MSA Members Would Receive Discounts on Trail Permits

The MSA considers itself the voice of the Michigan snowmobiler! We feel that our members have molded the Michigan Snowmobile Trail Program into the best snowmobiling in the Midwest. While we were doing planning for the system, our neighbor states were figuring out how to reach their state snowmobilers to educate them on safety, clubs, trail news, trail etiquette, and other important information. Wisconsin, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont, all passed legislation to offer trail permits to the members of the state association at a discounted price.

Current legislation reads:The fee for a snowmobile trail permit

sticker shall be discounted $25 if all of the following apply: The purchaser is a member in good standing of the Michigan Snowmobile Association, a nonprofit corporation, with an individual or family membership. In the case of a family membership, only the purchaser of the membership is considered to be a member for purposes of this subsection. The Membership

Ask Yourself -- Just How Much Are You Willing to Pay for Smooth Trails?

Legislative ReportBY BILL MANSON

Continued on page 23


P re-1969 snowmobiles were noisy. At full throttle, these machines emitted sound levels as high as 102 dB(A) from

a distance of 50 feet. The four snowmobile manufacturers have worked tirelessly to reduce those sound levels, and today’s sleds are 94 percent quieter than those of yesteryear.

Snowmobiles produced since Feb. 1, 1975 and certified by the Snowmobile Safety and Certification Committee’s independent testing company emit no more than 78 dB(A) from a distance of 50 feet while traveling at full throttle when tested under the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J192 procedures.

Additionally, those produced after June 30, 1976 and certified by the Snowmobiles Safety and Certification Committee’s independent testing company emit no more than 73 dB(A) at 50 feet while traveling at 15 mph when tested under SAE J1161 procedures.

It would take 256 78 dB(A) snowmobiles operating together at wide open throttle to equal the noise level of just one of the pre-1969 snowmobiles.

Consider this, normal human conversation at three feet produces approximately 70 dB(A).

Michigan LawUnder Michigan law, the muffler on a

snowmobile must be in good working order and when in constant operation noise emission cannot exceed the following levels:

For snowmobiles manufactured after July 1, 1977 and sold or offered for sale in Michigan, 78 decibels at 50 feet, as measured using the 2003 Society of Automotive Engineers standard J192.

For a stationary snowmobile manufactured after July 1, 1980 and sold or offered for sale in Michigan, 88 decibels at 50 feet, as measured using the 2004 Society of Automotive Engineers standard J2567.

The penalty for violating the sound levels for snowmobiles is a civil infraction, with fines up to $250.

Problems with excessive noise levels do occur when irresponsible snowmobilers modify the snowmobile exhaust system or substitute the factory system with an after-market racing exhaust. In Michigan, this practice is illegal and grossly misrepresents the sport.

What Those Near the Trail HearOperated in normal, considerate manner,

snowmobiles are barely audible from inside a home. From a distance of 50 feet, snowmobiles generate between 68-73 dB(A) at 15 mph. Since doors and windows are almost always closed in the winter, snowmobiles operating outside at a distance of 50 feet only create an interior sound level of between 41 and 47 dB(A).

From a distance of 200 feet, snowmobiles produce an interior sound level between 29 and 35 dB(A). This is well below the average evening household sound level of 47 dB(A).

U.S. Forest Service researcher Robin Harrison, reported that under usual wild land conditions, snowmobile operation is undetectable to the human ear at distances of more than 750 feet. He reported that snowmobiles were barely detectable above normal campground sound levels at a distance of 400 feet.

Sound Effects on Our WildlifeDr. Andres Soom participated in the

University of Wisconsin’s comprehensive three-year study on the effects of snowmobile sound levels on deer and cottontail rabbits. His report titled Emission, Propagation and Environmental Impact of Noise from Snowmobile Operations, concluded that “only minor reactions were noted in the movements of cottontail rabbits and white tailed deer to moderate and intensive snowmobiling activity.”

The report stated that it had not been

possible to determine sound levels at which there is clear reaction on the part of the deer, “because snowmobiles must be so close to deer to generate the higher levels that other factors such as visible presence are likely to be more important.”

The Wisconsin study also compared the reaction of deer to the presence of cross-country skiers. When cross-country skiers replaced snowmobiles on the test trail systems, the deer moved away from the trail more frequently.

A three-year study, Response of white-tailed Deer to Snowmobiles and Snowmobile Trails in Maine, conducted by wildlife scientists for the Maine Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit and the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, revealed that: “Deer consistently bedded near snowmobile trails and fed along them even when those trails were used for snowmobiling several times daily.

In addition, fresh deer tracks were repeatedly observed on snowmobile trails shortly after machines had passed by, indicating that deer were not driven from the vicinity of these trails.

The reaction of deer to a man walking differed markedly from their reaction to a man on a snowmobile? This decided tendency of deer to run with the approach of a human on foot, in contrast to their tendency to stay in sight when approached by a snowmobiler, suggests that the deer responded to the machine and not to the person riding it.

Addressing the subject of snowmobile operations in Yellowstone National Park, Jack Anderson, a former Superintendent of Yellowstone stated “We found that elk, bison, moose, even the fawns, wouldn’t move away unless a machine was stopped and a person started walking. As long as you stayed on the machine and the machine was running, they never paid any attention. If you stopped the machine, got off and started moving, that was a different story. The thing that seemed to be disturbing to them was a man walking on foot.”

Information for this article was obtained through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the American Council of Snowmobile Associations.

A Look at Snowmobile Sound Levels – P A S T A N D P R E S E N T –

This article is the first in a series of articles designed to educate snowmobilers about sound levels, Michigan law regarding sound levels on a snowmobile, and the consequences of rider non-compliance.

Sound dB(A)

75-Piece Orchestra 130

Car Horn, Snowblower 110

Blow-dryer, Diesel Truck 100

Electric Saver, Lawn Mower 85

Garbage Disposal, Vacuum 80

Alarm Clock, City Traffic 70

Dishwasher 60

Leaves Rustling, Refrigerator 40


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I n an effort to lower maintenance costs in the Michigan Snowmobile Trail Improve-ment Fund, a Groomer Driver Workshop is

being planned for Oct. 24. The informational event will be held at Baker College Truck Driver School Building at the corner of M-66 and M-55 South of Lake City. Sponsored by Bader Equipment, the workshop will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include lunch.

This workshop will focus on questions designed to reduce maintenance costs and equipment breakdowns.

A Look BackThe idea for the Groomer Driver Workshop

came about at the March 2014 Snowmobile Advisory Workgroup (SAW) meeting. At that meeting there was a discussion about the amount of money spent on maintenance during the 2014 season. There was a suggestion that a groomer driver workshop for groomer drivers should be held. A date and location was set and the first groomer driver workshop was held in October 2014.

Just as last year, the general theme of the meeting will be to reduce the high maintenance costs in the snowmobile program. This year’s workshop will include discussion of the items for maintenance as well as hands-on discussion. Preventative maintenance discussion will include fluid levels, paying attention to computer codes in the vehicle display, being sure not to miss any grease points, and how important tools like a camera to watch the drag are. If everyone pays attention, these items can and will reduce maintenance costs on the equipment.

The theme continues to be “fix it before it breaks saves time and money.”

The Check List During last year’s workshop a proposal

was made to establish a check list for each driver to go over as he or she completes the start process on each groom. It would be stored in a notebook in the Grant Sponsors file and will insure the program that the

breakdown is the fault of the equipment and not the fault of the driver.

After a year of using that groomer checklist, those in attendance at the meeting will discussion the importance and value of the checklist and any necessary additions or deletions.

Some Snowmobile Program Facts

Groomer drivers will also be provided a breakdown of the Snowmobile Trail Improvement Fund. The $1.1 million dollars spent last year for maintenance would be enough to purchase additional equipment and even new groomers. That does not count the many dollars spent out-of-pocket by Grant Sponsors.

Consider this: $43.47 of every permit sold goes into the snowmobile trail improvement fund. If 200,000 trail permits were sold, $8.7 million to run the program would be generated.

In reality in 2012 only 124,287 permits were sold. At $43.47, this amounts to $5.4 million.

In the 2013 only 136,033 permits were sold. At $43.47 per permit, $5.9 million was raised to fund the snowmobile program.

In 2014 only 145,958 permits were sold. At $43.47 per permit, $6.3 million was raised for the snowmobile program.

In 2015 Only 142,000 trail permits sold. At $43.47 per permit, $6.2 million was raised for the snowmobile program.

Increased trail permit sales are necessary to continue Michigan’s grooming program as it stands today. Everyone needs to work hard to spread the word that trail permits are the way trail grooming is funded and sales are required to keep smooth trails.

Drivers from councils and clubs are invited to attend this second annual groomer driver workshop. For more information, call Bill Lucas at (231) 775-4344, e-mail [email protected] or Bill Voelker at (231) 839-8660, e-mail [email protected]

Second Groomer Driver Workshop Trying to Reduce Maintenance Costs


The Importance of Having Youth Involved by Natalie Freeman

All youth need an outlet, a group and somewhere they feel they belong. Although many events, clubs, and teams can fill that space; it is important to find one that improves the community, aids in learning, and most of all has fun! Snowmobile clubs across the Michigan area, and in many other states, are vital for our youth to provide those important opportunities.

There are many reasons and factors as to why snowmobile clubs are so important for youth, starting with the ability to form leaders for the furture. It is a normal cycle that as a leader retires from an organiztion, a new one must step in. By educating youth on the total sport of snowmobiling and its local, county, state, and even international programs, they are prepared to take on greater responsibility and roles in this community. They then can become part of a larger organization and club to greater represent

and improve the sport of snowmobiling. Along

with this comes

responsibility which encourages young adults to have greater self-worth and work harder toward their goals. There are also more impactful ways a snowmobile club can take on responsibility, such as volunteering.

Volunteering and fundraising for the community is important in any club. It gives them a drive and purpose for what they are doing, and helps them obtain respect and support from their community. This can be done in many ways, such as helping mark, brush, and groom trails; volunteering to help run safety education classes; and simply having food, can, and clothing drives to give local charities and those in need.

Volunteering and taking on leadership roles helps youth build character in many ways. There is a variety of chances to interact with other youth on a day-to-day basis. This allows the youth to have fun and make friends with others who share similar hobbies. It also allows them to enhance their social skills and team building skills, through interacting with one another and planning events with each other. Lastly, snowmobile clubs create a fun and safe environment for youth. The club gives the youth friendship and opportunity to enjoy the sport they love -- snowmobiling. Keeping the youth involved in an enriching snowmobile club also ensures they are kept busy and out of trouble.

I have loved the sport of snowmobiling since I was born 19 years ago. Unfortunately, because I live in a large Metro Detroit suburban area, I was never able to join a snowmobile club. My family and I snowmobile every weekend in the winter in the Upper Peninsula. I know I would joined a club in a heartbeat, if I was able, but I can only imagine all the benefits it produces. I hope snowmobile clubs continue to grow and thrive for all ages, especially the youth; so that they can learn, help their community, and have fun!

Natalie FreemanAwarded 2015 MSA and

American Income Life Scholarship

The American Income Life and the Michigan Snowmobile Association (MSA) are pleased to announce the winner of the 2015 $2,000 college scholarship – Natalie Freeman.

Freeman graduated from Lutheran High Westland with a 3.8 GPA and attends the University of Toledo where she has a 3.7 GPA. She is the daughter of Michigan Snowmobile Association (MSA) members Kemper and Barbra Freeman.


How Does My Community Benefit From Nursing?by Samantha Gonzalez

My community reaps the benefits of nursing in many ways. The patient is the center of nursing practice, and the patient can be an individual, family, or community. Nursing practice involves four areas: promoting health and wellness, preventing illness, restoring health, and proving care for the dying and all of these are evident in my community.

Nurses promote health and wellness in patients who are both healthy and ill. This is evident in my community through activities that promote healthy lifestyles such as improving nutrition, promoting physical fitness, and smoking cessation.

Nurses work to prevent illness and disease. Nursing activities in my community that help prevent disease include administration of immunizations and providing prenatal care.

Restoration of health focuses primarily on the ill client and ranges from detection of disease through assisting the patient with recovery from illness. In my community, this aspect of nursing is evident in several ways. Nurses provide direct care to the ill patient through activities such as bathing, medications, and specific treatments or procedures such as dressing changes.

Nurses also help in facilitating assessment and diagnostic procedures through activities such as measurement of vital signs and specimen collection. Taking care of patients in the “post-procedure” phase such as after surgery is another area nurses help. Furthermore, nurses communicate and collaborate with other health care professionals such as physicians and dietitians. This is done in an effort to provide holistic care.

In addition, nurses in my community are educators and teach patients about their diseases and illnesses as well as teaching them how to manage their health. Lastly, but very important, nurses help with the rehabilitation of patients following any mental or physical illness, injury, or chemical addition.

Nurses in my community provide care for the dying whether it be palliative care while hospitalized or in hospice care.

In the past many nurses and nursing care was found in acute care hospitals in my community. Many nurses still work in hospitals, but you can also find nurses in clinics such as physician’s offices, agencies such as the health department, schools, long-term care facilities, and patient’s homes.

Different levels of nursing are also apparent in my community. One may find licenses practical, associate degree and diploma prepared nurses to be prominent in clinics, hospitals, and homes. Baccalaureate nurses can be found in schools and the health department and nurse practitioners are found in clinics and physician offices. Several master’s prepared nurses are faculty members of our community college. At this point, I only know of two DNPs and one is employed as a Director of Nursing and the other is a faculty member in a BSN completion program.

My community is fortunate to have the strong presence of nursing. We benefit from the multitude of activities that nurses are involved in and from the many settings where they are found. I am beyond excited to one day be a part of such a life changing and rewarding career.

Samantha (Newton) Gonzalez Named Patricia K. Jernberg Nursing Scholarship Winner

Now in its 10th year, the Patricia K. Jernberg Scholarship was established to honor a beloved wife, mother, and nurse who love to ride snowmobiles. This year’s $500 winner is Samantha (Newton) Gonzalez.

Gonzalez graduated from Maple Valley High School with a 3.0 GPA. She is attending Kellogg Community College where she maintains a 3.0 GPA. She is the daughter of MSA member Darrell Newton.

The Patricia K. Jernberg Scholarship was established by Patricia’s family through MSA. Patricia was a dedicated nurse, having worked a as a critical care nurse at Spectrum Health-Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids for 30 years. She was also an avid snowmobiler.

Along with her family and her faith, nursing and snowmobiling were her great loves. She and her husband were riders, MSA members, and loved attending the MSA Ride-In.


O n Feb. 26, 2015, snowmobilers from the MichCanSka Interna-tional Snowmobile Club completed the first ever “World Tour” on snowmobiles.

The U.S. was the starting point of this Epic Adventure. The group partnered with Canada, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia on this historic event. The opening ceremony started in Cadillac at Coyote Crossing Resort, with a blessing of the snowmobiles.

MichCanSka’s riders take to the trails to benefit diabetes research and awareness promotion. During this World Tour, they raised $30,000 for that cause.

The ride took the group from Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. to Hearst, Ontario; Bodo Norway; Kvikkjokk, Sweden; Kiruna Sweden; Muonia, Finland; Sodankyla, Finland; Salla, Finland; Pirenga, Russia; Yulinskava Salma, Russia; Murmansk, Russia, and St. Petersburg, Russia.

In all 62 riders (some rode segments), passed through eight time zones, traveled and rode snowmobiles collectively a total of 110,660 miles! (includes air travel) The miles traveled on snowmobiles were 54,660 miles for the entire group.

Oh What a Ride!Bill Bradfield, organizer of the World Tour and David Low (87 years

young!), represented the Michigan Snowmobile Association (MSA). They were joined by five others who rode the entire ride. The four others included Jean Guy Charatte, Yves Leblanc, Claude Castonguay, and Hugh Cummins.

Two Russian riders Andrey Babanov and Alexander Moiseev rode in the U.S. and in Russia. The camaraderie shared by all was priceless.

Temperatures ranged from 25 degrees to 42 degrees below zero. If you add the ages of the seven who did the entire trip, you have 445 years of snowmobiling wisdom and an average age of 64.

The U.S. segment of the World Tour was a loop around the Upper Peninsula of Michigan -- a total of 1,378 miles times 17 riders equals 23,426 miles collectively.

For a Great CauseThere are 29 million people in America who suffer with diabetes

and 382 million worldwide. There are more deaths annually caused by diabetes than AIDS and breast cancer combined. Someone is diagnosed with diabetes every 17 seconds.

MichCanSka riders have been on a journey since 2010 to help find a cure for diabetes. In that time period, the group has traveled through eight time zones, six countries, five states, seven provinces and rode 550,000 miles across the globe for Diabetes Research. They have raised more than $200,000 for that cause.

MichCanSkaWorld Tour 2015

D R E A M I T, P L A N I T, D O I T !The group of World Tour participants.


“I do believe that the MichCanSka World Tour 2015 on Snowmobiles for Diabetes Research will forever be in the history books of organized snowmobiling as the most challenging and exciting adventure on snowmobiles in the history of this truly great sport,” said Bradfield.

“We supported the organized snowmobile community including the MSA, the American Council of Snowmobile Associations, and the International Snowmobile Congress in all countries we visited.”

MichCanSka hosts fundraisers throughout the entire year; in support of diabetes research. They hold three car shows in the summer months. Proceeds from one of the car shows is donated to MSA.

“Raising funds for charities is a very important cause for many successful snowmobile clubs and raising funds for our state, provincial, national and international snowmobile community is also important.”

Bradfield believes that clubs should support both. There is no reason to have to choose between the two of them, he said.

“We can show the entire world that snowmobilers are a caring group of people that stand ready to help others in their time of need. As ordinary people when we get together as a team can reach extraordinary goals.”

The MichCanSka motto has been “Dream it, Plan it, Do it!” It is the team that makes the Dream. For more information, visit www.michcanska.com.

Dave Low and Bill Bradfield at the Russian border on February 21, 2015.

MSA member David Low.

MichCanSka receiving the key to the city of Sault Ste.

Marie. Mayor Tony Bosbous presented the group with the proclamation at the tunnel

under I-75 on the trail.

(L to R) Bill Bradfield, Dave Low, kneeling Yves Leblanc, Alexander Moiseev (Russia), Andrey Babanov (Russia), Norm Surprenant, Claude Castonguay, and Jean Guy Charette.


News Notes

News Notes continued on page 16

The International Snowmobile Safety Week will be held on Jan. 16-24, 2016.

Snowmobiling is a fun and exciting family activity enjoyed by more than four million people across the U.S. and Canada. The sport is a safe and an enjoyable form of recreation if done properly and with respect.

The purpose of International Snowmobile Safety Week is to expose people to safe snowmobiling practices and to demonstrate how operating safely can prevent mishaps.

Dear Snowmobile Clubs and Associations:

The members of the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association (Arctic Cat,

BRP, Polaris, and Yamaha) join the organized snowmobile community in announcing

the Take a Friend Snowmobiling Campaign for 2016. State and provincial snowmobile

association members of the American Council of Snowmobile Association (ACSA) and the

Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO) are encouraged to sponsor Take a

Friend Snowmobiling activities throughout their states and provinces.

Events can be held any time between Jan. 1, 2016 and March 31, 2016 with special

emphasis on events during Take a Friend Snowmobiling Week. The campaign was created

to support all snowmobile associations of ACSA and CCSO and their clubs to enhance

and expand their partnership with local Chambers of Commerce, Visitor and Convention

Bureaus, snowmobile dealers, and other businesses related to the snowmobiling

community.

The benefits for your state association could

mean such things as more trail signs, groomers,

and enhancements for trails in your state, with

the biggest benefit of all - introducing your

non-snowmobiling friends to your favorite

winter activity. All clubs are encouraged to participate in the campaign and partner

with local media, radio stations, television stations, etc in promoting your Take a Friend

Snowmobiling event and your club activities.

Extensive research has shown that a vast majority of non-snowmobilers who live in

the Snow Belt are very interested in snowmobiling. When asked to rate their interest on

a scale of one to 10 (10 being the highest level of interest) non-snowmobilers rate their

interest at nine! Research has also shown us that most individuals that live in the Snow

Belt see snowmobiling as a great way to:

a. Enjoy the scenery

b. Get outdoors and have fun with family and friends

c. Go to unique places and see amazing sights

d. Have fun in the winter outdoors and be able to go home tired and ready for a good

night’s sleep.

The Take a Friend Snowmobiling campaign is promoted by the manufacturers who

encourage all snowmobilers to take their non-snowmobiling friends out snowmobiling

to enjoy the winter. We hope your club and association will participate in a Take a

Friend Snowmobiling event. Talk with neighboring clubs to participate as well. Let your

association office know about your plans. The events should increase the profile of your

club and attract new support and members.

If you would like additional information, please visit

www.gosnowmobiling.org web site.

Safe Snowmobiling Means… 1. Never consume alcohol or drugs before

or during snowmobiling. 2. Become familiar with the snowmobile

you ride. 3. Operate at safe and reasonable speeds.4. Stay on trails and areas where

snowmobiling is permitted. 5. Avoid travel on unfamiliar frozen

bodies of water.6. Using extra caution at night. 7. Keep your snowmobile properly

maintained. 8. Become familiar with the terrain you

will travel on. 9. Listen to the weather forecast before

you leave. 10. Always wear a helmet and proper

clothing. 11. Never riding alone, and letting

someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.

12. Carrying emergency supplies and learning survival skills

International Snowmobile Safety Week

Don’t Forget to Take a Friend Snowmobiling


ACRONYMS IN SNOW: What Do All Those Letters Mean?

MSA – Michigan Snowmobile Association

MDNR – Michigan Department of Natural Resources

MTAC – Michigan Trails Advisory Council

SAW – Snowmobile Advisory Workgroup

The purpose of SAW is to assist MTAC in performing its duties and responsibilities and to provide the DNR advice related to the snowmobile program. This includes advice related to the creation, development, operation, and maintenance of the designated snowmobile trail system. MSA represents snowmobilers in Michigan on both the SAW and MSTAC.

ACSA - American Council of Snowmobile Associations

CCSO - Canadian Council of Snowmobile Associations

SNOFED - Swedish Snowmobile Owners Federation

RSAA - Russian Snowmobile ATV Association

ACSA, CCSO, SNOFED and RSAA are all dedicated to providing leadership and support to organized snowmobiling in their respective countries. They act as national coordinators and spokespersons for the snowmobiling community and are comprised of delegates from the various state snowmobile associations.

ISC- International Snowmobile Council

ISC is broken down into three chapters: a Northeast Chapter, a Midwest Chapter and a Western Chapter. The individual chapters are comprised of state associations, provincial associations. Michigan is a member of the Midwest Chapter.

ISMA - International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association

IASA - International Association of Snowmobile Administrators

ISMC - International Snowmobile Media Council

ISTC - International Snowmobile Tourism Council

NSF - National Snowmobile Federation

FOSPAC - Friends of Snowmobiling Political Action Committee

SSCC - Snowmobile Safety and Certification Committee (SSCC)

ISHOF - International Snowmobile Hall of Fame

Dear Snowmobile Clubs and Associations:

The members of the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association (Arctic Cat,

BRP, Polaris, and Yamaha) join the organized snowmobile community in announcing

the Take a Friend Snowmobiling Campaign for 2016. State and provincial snowmobile

association members of the American Council of Snowmobile Association (ACSA) and the

Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO) are encouraged to sponsor Take a

Friend Snowmobiling activities throughout their states and provinces.

Events can be held any time between Jan. 1, 2016 and March 31, 2016 with special

emphasis on events during Take a Friend Snowmobiling Week. The campaign was created

to support all snowmobile associations of ACSA and CCSO and their clubs to enhance

and expand their partnership with local Chambers of Commerce, Visitor and Convention

Bureaus, snowmobile dealers, and other businesses related to the snowmobiling

community.

The benefits for your state association could

mean such things as more trail signs, groomers,

and enhancements for trails in your state, with

the biggest benefit of all - introducing your

non-snowmobiling friends to your favorite

winter activity. All clubs are encouraged to participate in the campaign and partner

with local media, radio stations, television stations, etc in promoting your Take a Friend

Snowmobiling event and your club activities.

Extensive research has shown that a vast majority of non-snowmobilers who live in

the Snow Belt are very interested in snowmobiling. When asked to rate their interest on

a scale of one to 10 (10 being the highest level of interest) non-snowmobilers rate their

interest at nine! Research has also shown us that most individuals that live in the Snow

Belt see snowmobiling as a great way to:

a. Enjoy the scenery

b. Get outdoors and have fun with family and friends

c. Go to unique places and see amazing sights

d. Have fun in the winter outdoors and be able to go home tired and ready for a good

night’s sleep.

The Take a Friend Snowmobiling campaign is promoted by the manufacturers who

encourage all snowmobilers to take their non-snowmobiling friends out snowmobiling

to enjoy the winter. We hope your club and association will participate in a Take a

Friend Snowmobiling event. Talk with neighboring clubs to participate as well. Let your

association office know about your plans. The events should increase the profile of your

club and attract new support and members.

If you would like additional information, please visit

www.gosnowmobiling.org web site.


Here are some highlights of this year’s Yellowstone Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program for the 2015-16.

First, each day during the coming winter season, there will be up to five snowmobiles in each of four Non-commercially Guided Transportation Snowmobile Events/trips, one from each of the four Yellowstone Park Gates.

Second, you will be required to possess a non-commercial snowmobile access permit which is awarded annually through an online lottery system.

The lottery located at the www.recreation.gov website started on Sept. 1 to determine the trip dates for Non-Commercially Guide Leaders wanting to visit Yellowstone this coming winter season.

Another OpportunityAfter the lottery is finished and the initial trips are awarded (only one

trip from the lottery), you can still sign up to lead a trip or a second trip at www.recreaction.gov on a first-come-first-served basis for the dates still available. Note these remaining dates will be made available on the website in mid-October.

A total of only two trips allowed per season per non-commercial guide are allowed; the trips can last up to three days.

Note starting this year you will be charged $40 for each day of your permit. A one-day permit is $40; a two-day permit $80; and a three-day permit is $120.

Each snowmobile operator will be required to have successfully completed the Yellowstone Snowmobile Safety Education Certification training course. The training course is available online. This course was developed with the help and sponsorship of the Wyoming State Snowmobile Program.

This “No Cost” course is now available at the following website: http://provalenslearning.com/yellowstone-snowmobile-education-certificate.

Best Available TechnologyYou will be required to use only current Best Available Technology

(BAT) snowmobiles in your group. Note these required machines can be rented at a location near the four gates.

For the complete detailed information on the Non-Commercially Guided Access Program, please see the Yellowstone Park Service website at www.nps.gov/yell/learn/management/ngsap.htm.

For additional information on the Yellowstone Winter Use issue and snowmobile community’s combined 15-year effort to keep snowmobile access to Yellowstone in winter, visit our dedicated website www.saveyellowstonepark.com.

Please remember one of our collective main efforts during the last SEIS Winter Planning process was to have a “Non-commercially Guided access program for entry into Yellowstone. We accomplished that and now is your chance to plan a trip into the Park without a commercial guide. Please consider signing up during the lottery period at www.recreation.gov.

News Notes (Continued)

Yellowstone Announces Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program for this Coming Winter Season!

Clean Snowmobile ChallengeThe 16th Annual SAE Snowmobile Challenge was held in March 2015 at

Michigan Technological University in Houghton. This year 21 teams from the U.S. and Canada and one from Finland

participated in the weeklong event. The members of the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association: Arctic Cat, Bombardier Recreational Products, Polaris, and Yamaha were proud Gold-level sponsors of the event.

Representatives from the manufacturers were involved in the event and supported the skilled students participating from the universities and colleges from around the world.

And the Winner Is ...The University of Wisconsin – Madison bested the tough competition

and was announced the winner of the Internal Combustion Engine Division.

The second spot for the overall competition went to Kettering University from Flint.

The competition featured a new Diesel Utility category where North Dakota State took first place. The diesel category is new this year and was created as diesel sleds have different characteristics than gasoline sleds and there is a growing demand for snowmobile use in the agricultural

News Notes continued on page 19


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Honorarium & MemorialHonor, Remember Friends, Family, or Events Through a Donation to Support Snowmobile Safety and Education Programs

In Appreciation …All memorials and tributes will be acknowledged by the MSEAF through a thank you letter to you, the donor. A special card will also be mailed letting the recipient or their family know that someone special has honored them with this MSEAF Honorarium and Memorial. Memorials and tributes will also be recognized in the pages of the Michigan Snowmobile News.

DID YOU KNOW …the economic impact of snowmobiling –U.S. - $26 billion annuallyCanada - $8 billion annuallyEurope & Russia - $5 billion annuallyOver 100,000 full-time jobs are generated by the snowmobile industry in North America. Those jobs are involved in manufacturing, dealerships and tourism related businesses.

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F riends, family members and groomer operators, took to the Cadillac trails in late-February to remember Al Green.

Al passed away last November. He was the vice president and a Life Member of the Michigan Snowmobile Association (MSA), an active groomer and Trail Coordinator for Cadillac Winter Promotions, and a Life Member of the Cadillac Winter Warriors Snowmobile Club. Snowmobiling was his passion.

It was a beautiful day to remember Al. The temperature warmed up and it was quite mild. Julie and Pete Finch welcomed the snowmobilers to Coyote Crossing for an expanded continental breakfast. Comments from participants were that some of the large

chains should take a lesson from Julie. After filling tummies inside, the group went

out and viewed that big green tractor that was hooked to the Dubie Drag. Cadillac Winter Promotions has named that drag in Al’s honor.

They Came From Near and FarThe participants were a cross-section of the

different groups Al had worked with: MSA officers, Cadillac Winter Promotions officers and groomers, and Cadillac Winter Warriors officers and members. They made the trip from all areas of the state – the U.P., Rogers City, Flushing, Owosso, Otisville, and Hudsonville to name a few. All were honored to call Al friend.

Both of Al and Jen’s daughters, Kathrine

and Leslie, were on hand to participate in the festivities. At one time during the presentation, Ron Corbett, president of MSA, asked for a showing of hands of how many groomers were present. A lot of hands were raised. The next question was how many of the groomers had been mentored by Al and the same hands went up. Al enjoyed grooming and was extremely proud of the trails in Michigan.

Bill Lucas, Don Wing, and Pete Finch led rides; all ending up at the Boon Bonfire. After a lunch of hotdogs, chili, hot chocolate and cookies, the various groups continued riding the trails and met back at Coyote Crossing for snacks and reminiscing.

Al Green Memorial Rideby Barb Lazar


and hard work categories that would use diesel power. Second place in the Diesel category was awarded to SUNY -Buffalo.

The Finnish team of students from Lapland University of Applied Sciences celebrated their first year as the top Zero-Emissions team!

Michigan Tech University has hosted the Snowmobile Challenge for the past 13 years and experienced a beautiful snowy winter with temperatures solidly in the freezing range providing ideal conditions for

the SAE Collegiate Design competition.

Building off successes from previous years, a record-setting 11 teams completed the 100 mile endurance run to Copper Mountain.

In addition to engineers and other supporting groups, the U.S. Forest Service is very supportive of the Challenge. Forest Service representatives believe that the snowmobile industry and clubs have made great strides, and this partnership with the Snowmobile Challenge is a great opportunity for the students to help move forward in a partnership.

Plans are underway for the 2016 Challenge which will again be held at Michigan Tech beginning March 7, 2016. The snowmobile manufacturers will work with the Michigan Tech planning team in helping design event activities and more.

News Notes (Continued)


Join the MSA Today!Please Mail To: MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION4543 S. Division Ave Wyoming, MI 49548

This is my application for membership in theMICHIGAN SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION

I Want to Be a Part of the

Michigan Snowmobile Association

PLEASE CHECK THE CORRECT DUES AMOUNT:

o SINGLE/ FAMILY - $25*/ 1 yr. o CLUB - $25*/ 1 yr. o COMMERCIAL - $50*/1 yr.

PLEASE CHECK THE CORRECT DUES AMOUNT:

o SINGLE/FAMILY - $60*/ 3 yrs.

* Non U.S. members add $30. All payments must be in U.S. funds.

PAYMENT: o Check o VISA o MASTERCARD o Discover

Card No. ________________________________________________ Exp. Date ___________________________________

Cardholder Signature _________________________________________ Date ____________________________________

Name __________________________________________________ Spouse (if a family membership) ____________________

Address __________________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip ______________________________________________________________________________________

Phone (_____) ___________________________________________Club _____________________________________

E-mail address _____________________________________________________________________________________MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION

“Give this application to a friend”

MSA Life Membership Reinstated:

o Age 0-29- $1,000

o Age 30-39 - $800

o Age 40-49 - $600

o Age 50-59 – $400

o Age 60 and over $300

Must provide proof of age.

Payment must be paid in full

within one calendar year. New

Life Members will be provided

a personalized MSA jacket.

Current life members may

make a $100 donation and

receive a life member coat.

A 2014 Arctic Cat Wildcat 4 x 4 UTV (a four seat side-by-side) is being raffled off by the Michigan Snowmobile Education & Advancement Fund (MSEAF).

Babbitts’s Sport Center in Muskegon wanted to help MSEAF and Michigan snowmobiling by donating this unit to be used as a fundraiser.

With a retail value of more than $20,000, the money raised by this raffle will go a long way to help MSEAF continue its goal of safe snowmobiling on Michigan’s Snowmobile Trails.

TICKET, TICKET – Get Your Ticket! Wildcat 4x4 Raffle

Raffle drawing to be held at the MSA office on

November 12, 2015 at 3 pmTickets -- $10 each or 3 for $20!

All of the money raised will help support MSEAF continue to reach its mission of:• To act as a resource and distribution point for information and

education which furthers the safety of snowmobiling, and for the safety of the public in general.

• To facilitate the distribution and exchange of information pertaining to snowmobiling safety, general education, and knowledge regarding the sport of snowmobiling.

• To develop a common appreciation, understanding, and knowledge of snowmobiling activity in the State of Michigan.


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is an individual or family membership. The sticker is sold by the Michigan Snowmobile Association as the department’s agent under subsection (8). An individual shall not purchase under subsection (2) more than the following number of discounted stickers for the same 1-year period unless the individual owns a number of snowmobiles equal to or greater than the total number of discounted stickers purchased: (A) If the individual has an individual membership in the Michigan Snowmobile Association, 2 stickers. (B) If the individual has a family membership in the Michigan Snowmobile Association, 4 stickers. (4) The Michigan Snowmobile Association may require an individual to submit snowmobile registrations and vehicle identification numbers to verify the number of snowmobiles owned by the individual for the purposes of subsection (3)

Note: Permits will be $60 each; the discounted cost to an MSA member will be $35 if purchased through MSA, a certified Department of Natural Resources (DNR) agent.

The cost of a MSA membership is $25, add that to the cost of a $35 permit and both are equal -- $60.

The incentive to be an MSA member is you can buy multiple permits at the discounted rate. MSA members will also get continuous

updates on safety, education, new trails or closures throughout the year.

NOT a Tax IncreaseAfter considerable discussion and calls to

our state legislators, we are sad to report that we can’t find a legislator to introduce this bill. They are all afraid of raising taxes. Let me stress, our proposal is not, would not, be a tax increase. It is a “pay to play” system, and we already do that. We support our sport, and just want to assess ourselves differently. We have always paid our own way.

Our legislators have no problem taking $35 million (Pure Michigan campaign) of your hard earned tax dollars to invite everyone to come to Michigan; including inviting other snowmobilers to come and ride our trails. Yet, still they don’t want to let us invest in our trails.

Look to the November Michigan Snowmobile News for a list of legislators in our state. We will be asking you to call upon your state legislator and let them know how important this is to you and our smooth trails.

Let me put my earlier question to you in a different way. What is going to suffer if funding mechanisms are not changed? The groomed trails will suffer, and suffer greatly. Who is going to suffer if changes are not made? You the snowmobiler is going to suffer.

Legislative Report (continued)


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CHIPPEWA MOTORS INCORPORATED

3107 S HIGHWAY M-129SAULT SAINTE MARIE, MICHIPPEWAMOTORS.COM

COLOMA MOTOR SPORTS INC5270 PAW PAW LAKE RD

COLOMA, MICOLOMAMOTORSPORTS.COM

CYCLE CITY INC.6751 COUNTY 426 M.5 RD

ESCANABA, MICYCLECITYINC.COM

DAVID ALLEN RACING MOTORSPORTS

11995 N MAPLE ISLAND RDFREMONT, MI

POWERSMOTORSPORTS.COM

EXTREME POWER SPORTS2572 S OTSEGO AVE

GAYLORD, MIEXTREMEPOWER-SPORTS.COM

FOX POWERSPORTS OF KENTWOOD LLC.3538 29TH ST SE

GRAND RAPIDS, MIFOXYAMAHA.COM

FOX SHAWMUT HILLS2807 LAKE MICHIGAN DR NW

GRAND RAPIDS, MIFOXSHAWMUTHILLS.COM

FREE RIDE POWER SPORTS INC4405 JACKSON RD

ANN ARBOR, MIFREERIDEPOWERSPORTS.COM

FULL THROTTLE MOTORSPORTS, INC.9555 WOODLANE DR

DIMONDALE, MIFULLTHROTTLEMOTORSPORTS.COM

HACKERS YAMAHA AND HONDA3901 W HOUGHTON LAKE DR

HOUGHTON LAKE, MIHACKERSYAMAHA.COM

INDIAN RIVER SPORTS CENTER562 S STRAITS HWYINDIAN RIVER, MI

IR-SC.COM

K & W CYCLES, INC.4090 AUBURN RD

SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MIKWCYCLE.COM

LAKES & TRAILS POWER SPORTS2229 US HIGHWAY 131 N

KALKASKA, MISEE US ON FACEBOOK!

LAKESIDE MOTOR SPORTS, INC.10964 90TH AVE

MECOSTA, MILAKESIDEMOTORSPORTS.NET

LINDY’S SALES, INC.9051 BAY CITY FORESTVILLE

FAIRGROVE, MILINDYSSALES.COM

M & M MOTOR MALL INC3829 LAKE ST

KALAMAZOO, MIMMCYCLE.COM

M & M POWERSPORTS INC90 NAVY ST

HANCOCK, MIMMPOWERSPORTS.COM

MEYER YAMAHA, L.L.C.1355 US HIGHWAY 41 WEST

ISHPEMING, MIMEYERENTERPRISE.COM

NELSON’S SPEED SHOP4566 S GREENVILLE RD

GREENVILLE, MINELSONSSPEEDSHOP.COM

NORTHERN PWR SPRTS OF MIO INC.

30 KNEELAND ROADMIO, MI

SEE US ON FACEBOOK!

PAT’S AUTO & SPORTS CENTER10612 HWY M-38GREENLAND, MI

PATSMOTORSPORTS.COM

PEACOCK LIMITED OF BALDWIN INC276 S M37

BALDWIN, MIPEACOCKLTD.COM

PLANET POWERSPORTS647 E CHICAGO RD

COLDWATER, MIPLANET-POWERSPORTS.COM

RAY C’S CYCLE & SPORTS INC1422 IMLAY CITY RD

LAPEER, MIRAYCS.COM

SPEED NATION POWERSPORTS, INC.56605 PONTIAC TRLNEW HUDSON, MI

GOSPEEDNATION.COM

ST. HELEN POWER SPORTS L.L.C.1901 N SAINT HELEN RD

SAINT HELEN, MISTHELENPOWERSPORTS.COM

STEVENS’ YAMAHA SALES3638 S HURON RD

BAY CITY, MISTEVENSCYCLE.COM

T & R YAMAHA, INC.215 MAIN ST

EAST JORDAN, MITANDRYAMAHA.COM

TEAM G MOTORSPORTS LC2410 AUSTINS PKWY

FLINT, MIVEHICLECITYMOTORSPORTS.COM

THUMB MOTORSPORTS6466 VAN DYKE RD

CASS CITY, MITHUMBMOTORSPORTS.COM

U.S. 27 MOTORSPORTS & TRAILERS, INC

5301 N US HIGHWAY 27SAINT JOHNS, MI

YAMAHAPARTSKING.COM

VILLAGE MOTORSPORTS13035 NEW HOLLAND ST

HOLLAND, MIVILLAGEMOTORSPORTS.NET

WATSON’S MARINA INC.1 MAIN STREET

CURTIS, MIWATSONSMARINA.COM

WOODY’S CYCLE1690 N US 23

EAST TAWAS, MIWOODYSCYCLESALES.COM

Visit your nearest Yamaha dealer or Pro Yamaha dealer (in red) today.

For more Yamaha dealers, visit yamaha-snowmobiles.com.

/// YAMAHA-SNOWMOBILES.COM

T H E Y A M A H A

S A L E S E V E N T

TRADE-INALLOWANCE CUSTOMER CASH

SPECIAL FINANCING

OFFERS

GET UP TO

+ +$500 $800

TRADE MY SLEDTRADEMY SLED

Trade My Sled promotion valid August 21, 2015, through October 31, 2015. All makes and model sleds accepted as trade vehicles. All trades are up to the dealer’s discretion. Limit one (1) trade-in unit per new unit purchased. Copy of state regis-tration in customer’s name must accompany trade-in unit as proof of ownership. Offer valid for any new 2011-2016 Yamaha Snowmobile (except SRX 120 and ’16 Spring Power Surge models). See dealer for complete details. © 2015 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.

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