MISORVA Jan/Feb 2024

Official Publication of the Michigan Snowmobile and Off Road Vehicle Association

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILE & ORV ASSOCIATION NEWS

PROMOTE

SNOWMOBILE

SAFETY MONTH

JOHN DEE

REMEMBER A WINTER ICON

TRAIL OPENING DOLLAR BAY CEREMONY

CLUB SPOTLIGHT SAULT STE. MARIE

Jan/Feb 2024 misorva.org

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SNOWMOBILE & ORV ASSOCIATION NEWS

Michigan Snowmobile & ORV Association 4543 S. Division Ave Wyoming, MI 49548 (616) 361-2285 Fax (616) 363-0661 • www.misorva.org Office Staff Executive Director: Karen Middendorp karen@misorva.org • (616) 293-6256 2024 Executive Board President: Paul Anderson paul.misorva@gmail.com • (586) 215-6849 Vice President: Todd Maschke tmask2013@ hotmail.com • (989) 551-3913 Immediate Past President: John Newman newman029@gmail.com • (586) 596-0389 Secretary: Skip Schultz skip_schultz@hotmail.com Treasurer: Mark Pankner (989) 798-0113 cell mpankner340@gmail.com

MICHIGAN Michigan Snowmobile & ORV Association News is published six times a year for $10 – September, November, January, March, May and July – by Midwest Sports Publishing Network (MSPN), 6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180, Eden Prairie, MN 55346. Application to mail at periodicals postage prices is pending at Eden Prairie, MN and additional entries.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Michigan Snowmobile & ORV Association, 4543 S Division Ave, Wyoming, MI 49548.

PUBLISHER Joel Mellenthin EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Kale Wainer COPY EDITOR / ADMINISTRATOR Paula Jones ART DIRECTOR Corey Friesen ADVERTISING SALES Diane Voight, Dwain Stadie PHOTO ARCHIVES C. J. Ramstad

CONTRIBUTIONS: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials and photographs are welcome but cannot be returned unless sender provides a SASE. Michigan Snowmobile & ORV Association News 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 MSPN Phone: 952-473-7870 or 800-989-MSPN Fax: 952-473-7805 • sales@mspninc.com www.mspnads.com Send all advertising materials to: MSPN, Ad Department, 6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180, Eden Prairie, MN 55346

Jan/Feb 2024 Vol. 5 No. 3

Our calendar of events on page 15 is full of important MISORVA dates and is combined with some of Michigan’s best competitive snowmobile racing, happening at a track near you.

Features 4 REMEMBERING MICHIGAN SNOW ICON JOHN DEE MISORVA’s new President, Paul Anderson, shares thoughts and remembrance of friend, and Michigan snow icon, John Dee. 6 VP NOTES – THE VALUE OF WORKING TOGETHER

Todd Maschke, MISORVA’s new Vice President, outlines HB 4515 and the details surrounding it.

10 CLUB SPOTLIGHT – SAULT STE. MARIE 103 miles of meticulously maintained trails in the northeastern part of Chippewa County are all thanks to this hard working club.

12 DNR NEWS The Michigan DNR and special guests celebrate the reopening of the Dollar Bay to Lake Linden stretch of trail after a major rebuild.

What’s Inside

6 Director’s View 14 Board of Directors

15 Calendar of Events 15 Marketplace

On the Web

Additional photos from MISORVA events can be viewed at mspninc.com/events/photos.

Digital issues of this magazine can be viewed and downloaded for free at misorva.org or mspninc.com/publications/michigan-snowmobile-news/.

For a full calendar of events in Michigan and beyond, visit mspninc.com/events.

Upcoming MISORVA Events

Visit misorva.org for a list of updated MISORVA events.

Magazine Deadlines Copyright © 2023 by MSPN. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without consent of the publisher.

The deadline for Club Spotlight, Club Flashback, Club News, Calendar of Events, photos and more submitted for the Mar/April 2024 issue is 2/1/24. Send all submissions to kale@mspninc.com or Attn: MISORVA, 6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180, Eden Prairie, MN 55346

Jan/Feb 2024 3

PRESIDENT

By: Paul Anderson

REMEMBERING JOHN DEE

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his year we’ve lost some pretty important people in the Michigan snowmobile world. Life tends to move at a high rate of speed for many of us and it’s important to stop and appreciate those who make an impact on our lives.

John Dee’s passing hit me hard, like it did for so many other snow lovers. He was a gentle soul, with a love for everything snow, his family, and the Keewenaw, and that love resonated in everything thing he said and did. John was a volunteer, husband, father, woodworker, craftsman, snowmobiler, and a guy who just loved life in general.

Many of us “met” John when the internet started to become accessible to more people in the early 2000s. JohnDee.com was a dream to many of us diehard snowmobilers, as we sat every morning hitting the refresh button to see if he updated his snow forecast. We stared at webcams around the state hoping and praying for big snow numbers. The days he didn’t provide an update felt like a day with a giant hole in it.

If you were a regular to his Sunday journals, you became part of his life just by reading. From his adventures with the dogs, building his house and shop, or the adoption of his daughter, we all got to be a part of his life. If you subscribed to his blog, “Snow Church,” you got a glimpse of his lighthearted personality. The man could straight-up get goofy at times, but he made us all laugh. At the same time, he was able to explain the weather at a level that we all could understand. To say he was inspiring would be putting it mildly, and so many of us envied where he got to live and the lifestyle he chose.

Because John became the “go-to” for weather conditions, I spent a lot of time on his website. I tuned in to his journals on Sunday evenings and remember him talking about making the move from Illinois up to the Keweenaw. This inspired me to push harder every year to be able to make my own move up north.

When I finally had the opportunity to move, I shared my story on his forum much like he did.

January of 2008 was the first time I got to ride with John, and I felt like I was riding with a “Legend.” I was lucky enough to have gotten a chance to ride with him at least a half dozen times and it was always an adventure! Even when the snow was bad, or he wasn’t healthy enough to ride, we’d meet for lunch and talk about riding.

Those are memories I will never forget.

4 MISORVA

You never really realize how important a person is until they are gone. Looking back now, I realize that I took his forecasts and website for granted because the information he shared was always there. Although we only got to talk occasionally, I took those conversations for granted too. I will miss the bright colors of blues, pink, and yellow that he shared in his forecasts, his sense of humor, his willingness to share his life, and the passion for snow that we all shared with him. I wish I had the opportunity to thank him for all he gave to us snow-lovers and sledheads.

He was a great role model, friend, and human and will be deeply missed by the snow community and all the people who knew him.

Rest in Peace, my friend, and “Think Snow.”

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VP NOTES

By: Todd Maschke, MISORVA Vice President

THE VALUE OF WORKING TOGETHER “Michigan is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and natural features in the world. Our quickly growing off-road community shows how much Michiganders love getting outdoors to experience it. With the signing of this bill, we are renewing state support for our unparalleled off-road vehicle trails and the infrastructure necessary to enjoy them. Michigan will continue to be a place with safe access to explore our grand outdoors.”

O

n May 9, 2023, representatives from the Michigan Snowmobile and ORV Association (MISORVA) along with representatives from the Department of Natural Resources, testified in support of HB 4515.

Representative, Jenn Hill, with the help of MISORVA, has taken the lead on this important legislation. The bill amended Section 324,81116 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. The amendment removed the expiration date on license fees for off-road vehicles (ORVs).

Currently, under the existing act, the owner of an ORV requiring licensure must file an application for a license with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or with an ORV dealer or DNR license agent. Licenses are valid for one year beginning April 1.

The current fees for a license are as follows: For a license that does not authorize the operation of the ORV on state ORV trails, $26.25. (This license authorizes operating the ORV on eligible county roads, the frozen surface of public waters, and eligible state and national forest roads.) For a license authorizing

operation of the ORV on state ORV trails and scramble areas, $36.25. (This additional $10 purchase is described as a trail permit supplemental to the basic license described above.)

In 2013, Section 324.81116 was amended to provide that no fee would be charged for an ORV license or trail permit beginning April 1, 2019. In 2017, that date was extended to April 1, 2024.

Act No. 217 Public Acts of 2023 (Formally HB 4515) , approved by the governor, November 22, 2023, becomes effective February 13, 2024. The proposed bill removed the sunset language and retained ORV license fees beyond that date.

Why is that important?

Section 324.8117 - 324.8119 prescribes what to do with these funds.

Without these funds being put into the various accounts what would happen to the trail system as we know it? Back in 1994, when the ORV program rolled out, I do not think anybody realized how it would evolve into what it has now. MISORVA and the DNR are constantly looking at ways to improve the ORV program. MISORVA does not feel starting again with a fresh slate is the answer.

MISORVA feels it is best to approach the areas with the direst need and work to get the legislation amended.

Did you know that in the Fiscal Year 2021-22, ORV fees generated $11.4 million for the ORV Trail Improvement Fund and the ORV Safety Education Fund? These funds are used to support the DNR’s ORV grant programs. They also support appropriations for parks and recreation, law enforcement, as well as departmental administration. The legislation received unanimous, bipartisan support and was signed by our governor on November 22, 2023.

This, members, is progress and shows the value of working together!

DIRECTOR’S VIEW HELP THE COMMUNITY KAREN@MISORVA.ORG BY: KAREN MIDDENDORP, MISORVA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

I

have heard the same conversation from many clubs and grant sponsors across our state. They all say their volunteers are dwindling because they are getting older. While I am sure this is a portion of the reason, there are others. While it’s true we all get older every day, the question is, why aren’t younger enthusiasts stepping forward to help?

There could be many reasons for this. We may not make events attractive or fun enough for younger families to participate. We may not be communicating events to the general membership or just informing the same few who always show up because it’s easy.

There are many times when work needs to be done during the middle of the week, but trail work in the fall can be enjoyable. It’s great to be out on the trail with other members on a Saturday, doing the brushing and signing. When many people work together, the task can be completed quickly. Another common comment is, “Our membership keeps dwindling. How can we turn this issue around?”

6 MISORVA

The answer is community involvement! Attend your local Chamber of Commerce meetings and learn about the issues your local business owners and administrators face about the economy. They will tell you they need more people to use their services to create revenue. If you show interest, they will return the favor.

Think about starting a local high school scholarship program, provide a snowmobile and ORV safety class, and donate funds to various community programs during the holidays. Do something for your community! Get involved at the local and state level.

Please keep in mind the following information: MISORVA relies on your membership dues and support to continue working with our state leadership and DNR. Similarly, your local club also needs your help. They are responsible for maintaining your trails, and our trail funding programs for snow and ORV leave many necessary items for the clubs to purchase. This includes pole saws, chain saws, and various other tools, safety equipment, heat, and lights for the groomer barns to maintain equipment. Be a member, help where you can, when you can, and always remember to RIDE RIGHT!

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MISORVA NEWS MISORVA NEEDS YOUR HELP WITH HB4459 By: Joe Bartlett, MISORVA Legislative Committee Chairperson

T

he Legislative Committee is facing a challenging 2024 agenda, with one of the main matters being HB4459.

This issue is currently in the House Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation Committee, led by Representative, Laurie Pahutsky. We will need your help to push this bill out of committee and onto the House floor for a vote; letters of support from trail users are greatly needed.

After that, the bill will go to the Senate Committee and then a vote from the full Senate before being sent to the Governor for a signature. The Legislative Committee intends to commence work on this issue from January 1, when the next session begins.

Before this date, meetings with the members of the House Committee will be arranged to ensure the bill moves forward.

I’ve included below a list of items that we see need to be addressed for you. They are listed in no particular order of priority: 1. One permit versus two required currently for ORV trail users.

2. The ORV fund procurement process needs to be changed so that grant sponsors can effectively access the funding required for trail maintenance.

3. SAW and ORVAW committees must be established into law to prevent their dissolution, similar to the Equestrian committee.

8 MISORVA

4. Changes must be made to the ORV signing handbook so the program funds map boxes at all cycle and ATV trail intersections.

5. Signs need to be added to all trailheads in the state for dirt and snow, calling out who maintains the trail, along with a link or code they can scan directing them to contact information.

6. PA288 of 2016 needs to be amended to increase ORV program funding to be used by Grant Sponsors for damage restoration grants.

7. An investigation needs to be conducted into a registration process for ORVs, which could create a Permanent ORV Trail Fund for trail improvement, maintenance grants, damage restoration, and aid law enforcement.

8. Keep a vigilant eye on organizations like “Keep the U.P. Wild” to prevent the loss of riding areas to land grabs.

Given the talent and dedication in this organization, and under the leadership of Paul Anderson, we can achieve great things for motorized recreation in Michigan — always working together.

Best regards, Joe.

RIDE SAFE ARE YOU FAMILIAR WITH SNOWMOBILE SIGNAL LIGHTS BY: BRAD BEARDSLEY AND MIKE KEITH They go by several names including Trail Courtesy Lights, Ride Lights, Signal Lights, Trail Hand and RAD Light, but all these aftermarket LED light brands function in a similar manner to signal oncoming riders if there are more riders in the group they are encountering. These aftermarket products have been around for quite some time, but are gaining popularity every season. Some clubs in Michigan have been highly promoting them. For 2024, Ski-Doo is one of the first OEMs quietly offering them as an accessory for their handguards, and could be considered, by some, as a huge step forward in snowmobile safety acceptance.

Right, wrong or indifferent, hand signal usage on the trails has stirred some heated debate. It can be argued it is safest for everyone to keep both hands on the handlebars and in control of their snowmobile at all times. If you are

your group’s trail leader, you probably feel responsible to protect the riders behind you. Using hand signals, some lead riders claim they are successful signaling to about 90 percent of the oncoming traffic, but the other 10 percent of the time, feel safest keeping both hands on the bars to avoid hitting anyone who may be on the wrong side of the trail as they approach.

Others will contend that lights aren’t necessary and only add expense. Every snowmobile safety class educates on how to RIDE RIGHT, meaning, your common sense should tell you to treat every corner like a snowmobile is approaching, and while riding, you should keep your machine under control, operating at a safe speed and on the right side of the trail. (Like an automobile) Both groups will tell you to always remember, there is no center line on a trail, but the right side is mine.

No matter your feeling, if you see an amber light approaching you this winter, it means there will be more riders in the group behind that leader. When you see the green light, that will signify the last rider in that group.

Use whatever practice or device that feels safest for you.

Everyone’s end goal is to Ride Safe while enjoying the incredible snowmobile trails in Michigan.

Jan/Feb 2024 9

CLUB SPOTLIGHT SAULT STE. MARIE SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION SOOTRAILS.ORG SAULT STE. MARIE SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION

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he Sault Ste. Marie Snowmobile Association (SSMSA) maintains 103 miles of trail in the northeastern part of Chippewa County. Starting near the Soo Locks, the trail head is located on the St Marie’s River at Ashmun Bay where Trail 8 starts.

Riders can also stage at Kewadin Casino in the Soo, or Bay Mills Resort in Brimley, but it is recommended to ask either location if there is available parking that day. Their trail system will take you right to the Soo I-500 race track which is typically a busy trail ride the day of the big race.

Their trails also lead to many of the popular places in the Eastern UP like Kinross, Brimley, Trout Lake, Strongs, Hulbert, Paradise and right to the front door to two casinos along with many more amazing places.

Trail maps are available to view online, can be picked up at most local businesses, and also posted to map boards along the trail route.

The town of Sault Ste. Marie is also snowmobile friendly as they allow snowmobiles on most of their streets in town.

One spot that is always a favorite stop for riders is the Mission Hill overlook. Many amazing pictures are taken here as you can see two frozen lakes along with the St Marie River and our neighbors to the north, Canada, is located on the other side of the river. This is also a great spot to catch the Northern Lights if the conditions are right.

SSMSA does an amazing job with a full staff of 30 volunteer groomer operators and a dedicated team who go out every Sunday during the spring, summer and fall to brush and sign trails.

Follow their Facebook page to see the updates each Sunday just to get an idea of how much

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work it takes to maintain 103 miles of trail, then volunteer to help. There is no off season when a club has the pride in their trails like SSMSA club does. They have a member who works nearly full-time posting updates on Facebook to include content regarding trail reports, upcoming special events, stories of concern, shout-outs of thanks or requests for volunteer help.

They have awesome support from 32 commercial sponsors in the area and another 70 regular members.

They are a snowmobile-only club as their trail system only has eight miles of dual-use trails in it which are maintained by the local ORV club, the Chippewa County SORVA. SSMSA does however help them when they need extra trail help.

The club holds several social and fund raisers a year including a fall Dice Run for ORVs, a snowmobile poker run, and a trail stop during the snowmobile season.

Members have the opportunity to go on a groomer ride along. The club is looking to the future with hopes to build a groomer barn in Kinross where their second groomer is stationed. This addition will allow them to service and house this groomer and make it easier to maintain the southern portion of the trail system.

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As you read this, most parts of Michigan are in the best part of the snowmobile season, and if you have ridden SSMSA trails and enjoyed them, please search out their website and show them some appreciation by becoming their newest member!

I promise, you will never get asked to volunteer other than telling fellow riders yes, I am member of the Sault Ste. Marie Snowmobile Association. All clubs rely on volunteers and memberships to do what they do, Snowmobiling is 100 percent user-funded to make their trails as great as they can be. Please join a club today!

Jan/Feb 2024 11

MICHIGAN DNR MICHIGAN DNR CELEBRATES REOPENING OF DOLLAR BAY TO LAKE LINDEN TRAIL SEGMENT By: John Pepin, Deputy Public Information Officer Michigan Department of Natural Resources

S

upporters and partners joined the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in Houghton County to celebrate the reopening of a roughly 8-mile segment of snowmobile and off-road vehicle trail devastated by a historic storm in 2018.

The Father’s Day flood in June 2018 dumped seven inches of rain over the Houghton-Hancock area in the span of only a few hours.

Coupled with the steep terrain of the surrounding hills, the rain rushing downhill washed out or plugged numerous culverts and damaged or destroyed roads, homes, streets, trails and other places where the water sought its level.

Among these features was the Dollar Bay to Lake Linden segment of Trail No. 3, which was constructed from a decommissioned railroad line.

In the wake of the historic storm, repair work was needed at 171 sites along the 7.8 miles of recreation trail. Just over 100 culverts needed to be replaced and 34 major washouts needed repair.

“Some of the washouts were 80-feet deep and 240-feet across.”

- Ron Yesney, Upper Peninsula trails coordinator for the DNR’s Parks and Recreation Division

In what is likely the Michigan DNR’s largest trail repair project, $10.5 million was spent for work taking contributions of time, money and expertise from numerous sources and years to complete.

Ron Yesney, Michigan Department of Natural Resources Upper Peninsula trails coordinator talks at the trail reopening ceremony today in Dollar Bay.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division Chief Ron Olson, far right, talks today with attendees at a trail reopening ceremony in Dollar Bay in Houghton County. Also pictured, left to right, Daryl St. John of the Keweenaw ATV Club, 110th District Rep. Greg Markkanen, DNR U.P. Field Deputy Stacy Welling-Haughey and DNR Upper Peninsula trails coordinator Ron Yesney.

“The bottom line of why we do this stuff and why we spend the money and the resources is to provide people with an enrichment and in the end it’s lifelong memories,” said Ron Olson, Chief of the DNR’s Parks and Recreation Division. “ When you ride down a trail like this, what you remember is what’s important, and the experience you have.”

Olson said the trail also provides opportunities beyond economic benefits and tourism for improved health and well-being. He said a trail outing can help reduce stress.

“You can ease yourself and you can enjoy yourself and forget about some of the problems of the day,” Olson said.

12 MISORVA

The damage to this part of the trail was so great that many feared the trail segment might never be rebuilt. But with the help and considerable efforts of several state agencies, lawmakers and other partners, the nearly $11 million project to reopen the trail has now been realized.

“Getting this project engineered and constructed was a monumental task,” Yesney said. “I’m real proud of the effort to restore this trail and I am thankful to all those who participated in the reconstruction.”

Speakers at today’s ribbon-cutting commemoration, along the trail in Dollar Bay, included Olson, Yesney and DNR U.P. Field Deputy Stacy Welling-Haughey and state 110th District Rep. Greg Markkanen, Daryl St. John of the Keweenaw ATV Club and Ryan LaPorte of the Keweenaw Snowmobile Club.

“This trail is just incredible,” Markkanen said. “I want to commend the DNR for their commitment to this project, and they finally get it done, everyone’s here today, it’s just a very emotional moment.”

Markkanen also praised the “phenomenal” work done by construction crews on the trail restoration project.

Daryl St. John of the Keweenaw ATV Club is ready to cut a red ribbon held across the Dollar Bay to Lake Linden section of Trail No. 3 today in Houghton County.

He applauded restored access to recreation opportunities going north from Dollar Bay to Lake Linden.

“It’s so important to our economy, to our local businesses, to our groups and to our communities as a whole,” Markkanen said.

Those gathered for the ceremony stood on the trail behind a red ribbon drawn tautly to be cut by St. John in celebration of the trail work’s completion.

With numerous supporters standing behind him, Daryl St. John of the Keweenaw ATV Club is shown just after cutting a red ribbon held across the Dollar Bay to Lake Linden section of Trail No. 3 in Houghton County.

“Everyone here had something to do with this, please come and stand here with us,” Haughey said.

About 60 people attended the event.

Funding for the $10.5 million project was derived from numerous sources, including $4 million in a state general fund appropriation allocated through the Michigan Economic Development Corp., $2 million from the federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, $2.1 million from state ORV funds compiled from fiscal years beginning in 2018, $1.5 million in federal Land and Water Conservation Fund granting and $.5 million in snowmobile program money.

DNR partners on the project included the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, the Michigan Department of Transportation, Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget, B&B Contracting, DP Construction, Bacco Construction Co., MD Contracting, Blue Line Sit Solutions and OHM Advisors.

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Jan/Feb 2024 13

misorva MISORVA Board of Directors and Regions Map District 1 Joe Chavis 906-284-1762 upchavis@hotmail.com Ernie Reimann 906-367-1566 erniereimann@gmail.com Michael Fik 815-715-0869 imstrech@msn.com Chad VanBennekom 616 558 1619 chad.vanbennekom@gmail.com

District 2 District 3 Rich Rottier 616-550-8201 richrottier@yahoo.com Michelle LaBadie 906-553-1298 Mlabadie89@gmail.com

District 4 Ken Kondrat 810-656-1770 Kjkondrat@aol.com Kaye Houk 989-619-4228 kjh64@frontier.com John Houk 989-306-2545 kjh64@frontier.com Ken Mc Crum 989-657-4168 kmccrum@charter.net

District 5 Gary Blaser 586-202-5452 blasergary@aol.com Greg Ruppel 989- 578-0784 gruppelsr@gmail.com

District 6

District 8

Joe Bartlett 517-285-0726 djosephbartlett@gmail.com

Steve Veltman 231-246-0086 veltmanhardware@aol.com

Scott Veltman 231-649-6436 scottveltman340@gmail.com

Bryan VanNett 231-894-5195

Mark Coe 231-944-0678 mark@mifarmtofreezer.com

Brad Beardsley 231-519-3723 sandmanbb1@yahoo.com

Steve Haver 231-342-0111 stevehaver2415@gmail.com Dave Titus 269-845-2401 dave7649@aol.com

District 9 Todd Blanchard 847-910-3279 jtodd.blanchard@gmail.com

District 7

David Low 616-550-2707 low@gmail.com

Dan White 313-520-3828 drdirt800@msn.com

Scott Matteson 269-760-0188 michsnowrider@gmail.com

Nick Ferrante 810-428-7501 npferrante@gmail.com

Lee Palmer 574-286-7457 palmlee@yahoo.com

Scott Burby 734-883-5557 burby43@gmail.com Brian Hicks 989-871-4767 bdhicks@tds.net

14 MISORVA

EVENTS

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vents and competition in Michigan are in full swing. There’s a lot to take in, and the winter is a short one, so start laying out your calendar plans now. Visit your local club and misorva.org for more happenings. We’ll see you out there!

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FEBRUARY 9-11: Everywhere, MI. Ride FREE in Michigan without the requirement of a snowmobile registration or trail permit. Residents and out-of-state visitors can legally ride more than 6,000 miles of DNR-designated snowmobile trails, public roads and public lands (where authorized). More info on michigan.gov

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10: Norway, MI. Tri-County snowmobile and ORV poker run, Knight Owl Sports Bar, 1035 Main St, Registration 9am-10am, Ride 10am-4pm, fun stops, cash prizes and 50/50 raffle, everyone welcome!

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14: Grayling, MI. Off-Road Advisory Workgroup Meeting, In-Person, Grayling Twp Hall, 1pm-3pm, more info on misorva.org Calendar of Events 28-1: Sault Ste. Marie, MI. Snow Groomer Workshop at Kewadin Casino, for more info: 616-361-2285 or office@misorva.org or misorva.org Calendar of Events

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MICHIGAN SNOCROSS NORTHERNPOWERRACEPARK.COM DEC 9-10: Mancelona, Michigan JAN 6-7: Mancelona, Michigan FEB 3-4: Mancelona, Michigan FEB 24-25: Mancelona, Michigan MAR 9-10: Mancelona, Michigan MIDWEST INTERNATIONAL RACING ASSOCIATION (MIRA) MIRARACING.COM JAN 6-7: Kinross, Michigan JAN 20-21: Eagle River, Wisconsin JAN 27-28: Traverse City, Michigan FEB 10-11: Gaylord, Michigan FEB 17-18: Lincoln, Michigan MIDWEST SNOCROSS SERIES MIDWESTSNOCROSS.COM DEC 17: Ironwood, Michigan PRO VINTAGE RACING (PVR) PROVINTAGERACING.COM DEC 29-31: Ironwood, Michigan

AR

Safety: 0.25”

Ad Number: N/A C M Y K Publication: Midwest Snowmobiles Magazine

Insertion Date(s): March 2022

REFINED & PRIMED. LET’S RIDE. UP TO 4-YEAR COVERAGE

715-479-4200 Email: info@arrowheadgroomers.com PO BOX 340, St. Germain, WI 54558

†

+ NO PAYMENT UNTIL APRIL 2021‡

ON MODELS ® X-RS ® 2023 2021 RENEGADE OR 3-YEAR

COVERAGE

The new 2023 RenegadeONX-RS is ready to ride whenever you want to.

SELECT 2023 SUMMIT MODELS With the all-new REV® Gen5 platform and features like unmatched LED lighting and a 10.25" touchscreen that brings enhanced connectivity, prepare for trips you’ll never want toAGRICULTURAL end. Lucky for&you, they don’t have to.

COMMERCIAL BUSINESSES †

586-790-9100 QUALIFY FOR MULTI-UNIT DISCOUNTS UP TO

Large selection of

parts in stock!

$1,750

†

UNIT. ONLY ON SELECT 20344 S. Nunnely Road PERDEFENDER MODELS. Clinton Township, MI 48035 SEE MORE AT SKI-DOO.COM www.deesmarine.com

© 2020 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. This offer is valid in the U.S.A. only at participating Ski-Doo ® dealers on the purchase of a 2021 Ski-Doo snowmobile ordered between February 12, 2020, and April 14, 2020, within the Spring Fever Sales Event promotion. Snowmobiles used for racing are excluded from this offer. The terms and conditions may vary depending on your state, and these offers are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. See your Ski-Doo dealer for details. †Get up to 4 years of coverage on select 2021 models: Eligible units are select new and unused 2021 Ski-Doo models ordered during the Spring Fever Sales Event promotion. Consumers purchasing an eligible 2021 model are entitled to receive a 12-month BRP limited warranty plus 36-month B.E.S.T. coverage. The warranty is subject to the exclusions, limitations of liabilities and all other terms and conditions of BRP’s standard limited warranty contract, including without limitation the exclusions of damages caused by abuse, abnormal use or neglect. B.E.S.T. service contract is subject to a $50 deductible on each repair. For complete details, please see the BRP limited warranty and the B.E.S.T. contract at an authorized BRP dealer near you. ††*Example: On a purchase made September 1, 2020, where the amount financed is $7,500, your down payment is $0, no interest until March 1, 2021, and no payment until April 1, 2021, followed by 36 monthly payments of $235.05. Interest rate is 7.99% [ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE is 5.99% (E)]. Note: The above financing programs are offered by Sheffield Financial, a division of Truist Bank and FDIC member. Subject to credit approval.

Approval and any rates and terms provided are based on credit worthiness. Tiers will be based on the customer’s credit score obtained by Sheffield Financial. Other financing offers are available. See your local dealer for details. Rates advertised are based on tier A customers with credit scores of 730 or higher and tier B customers with minimum credit scores of 700. Minimum amount financed: $1,500; maximum amount financed: $50,000. Other qualifications and restrictions may apply. An origination fee of $0 will be added to the amount financed in the above example. Financing promotions void where prohibited. Offer applies to eligible and qualified units purchased from a participating Sheffield dealer. Offers are valid on Spring Fever Sales Event promotion orders placed between February 12, 2020, and April 14, 2020. For the above finance program, customer must take delivery between September 1, 2020, and December 31, 2020. Offer subject to change without notice. [“E” means estimate.] Promotions are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. Offer may not be assigned, traded, sold or combined with any other offer unless expressly stated herein. Offer void where restricted or otherwise prohibited by law. BRP reserves the right, at any time, to discontinue or change specifications, prices, designs, features, models or equipment without incurring any obligation. Always consult your snowmobile dealer when selecting a snowmobile for your particular needs and carefully read and pay special attention to your operator’s guide, safety video, safety handbook and safety labeling on your snowmobile. Always ride responsibly and safely and wear appropriate clothing, including a helmet. Please observe applicable laws and regulations. Remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix.

DISCOVER MORE AT SKI-DOO.COM

®

© 2022 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. , TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates.

Products in the United States (U.S.) are distributed by BRP US Inc. Always ride responsibly and safely.

01F

PS17142-SKI-MY21-Dealer-Spring-Fever-MASTER-FP.indd

©2023 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc. Offers valid in the U.S.A. only between August 1, 2023, and October 31, 2023. The conditions may vary depending on your location and this offer is subject to termination or change at any time without notice. This offer is not refundable, exchangeable or transferable (including from one dealership to another), cannot be redeemed for cash, credit or other products of equivalent value and cannot be combined with any other offer or rebate. Null where prohibited by law. While supplies last. Eligible units are all new and unused 2023 Ski-Doo Summit models, excluding Summit NEO/NEO+ and Spring-Only models. †Get a $1,500 rebate on new, unused and in-stock eligible models purchased from a participating BRP dealer. The buyer of an eligible model will receive a $1,500 rebate. ‡Get 3-year coverage: The buyer of an eligible model will receive a 12-month BRP limited warranty plus 24-month B.E.S.T. coverage. Subject to the exclusions, limitations of liabilities and all other terms and conditions of BRP’s limited warranty and B.E.S.T. contract, including without limitation the exclusions of damages caused by abuse, abnormal use or neglect. B.E.S.T. service contract is subject to a $50 deductible on each repair.

For complete details, please see the BRP limited warranty and the B.E.S.T. contract. Carefully read the operator’s guide and safety instructions. All adult snowmobile models are meant to be used by drivers of age 16 and older. Observe applicable laws and regulations. Always wear appropriate protective clothing, including a helmet. Riding, alcohol and drugs don’t mix. Always ride responsibly and safely. See your authorized BRP dealer for details and visit ski-doo.com.

BRP

Ski-Doo

Spring Fever

PS17142

TR | RENEGADE Ad Size: Full Page

2020-02-11

SR

USEN Format: 11.625” X 21”

C M Y K

Bleed: 0.125”

Safety: 0.5”

Notes:

ATTENTION — Trapping to be done by the printer according to the printer’s specs.

WFP-181000_SKI-MY24-Dealer-Assets-Aout-2023-PRINT-DS-FP-ENUS.indd 1

ISOC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SNOCROSS SNOCROSS.COM DEC 15-16: Ironwood, Michigan

2022-02-15 ENNA

ATTENTION — Trapping to be done by the printer according to the printer’s specs.

BIG EXTREME VINTAGE RACING ASSOCIATION (BEVRA) BEVRAVINTAGE.COM JAN 20: Lakeview, Michigan JAN 27: Lakeview, Michigan FEB 1: Lakeview, Michigan FEB 10: Lakeview, Michigan (Make-up date) FEB 17: Lakeview, Michigan FEB 24: Lakeview, Michigan MAR 2: Lakeview, Michigan (Make-up date)

GLADWIN VINTAGE S/C RACING FACEBOOK: GLADWIN VINTAGE SNOWMOBILE CLUB JAN 20: Gladwin, Michigan FEB 10: Gladwin, Michigan FEB 24: Gladwin, Michigan

01

SKI-MY23-Endemic-TR-REN-XRS-v2-MDSnowmobile-Print-FP-Mar2022-ENUS.indd

MY23 Trail Renegade v2

A-Z COMPETITION GUIDE

EAGLE RIVER WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP DERBY DERBYCOMPLEX.COM JAN 18-21: Eagle River, Wisconsin

HAMBLEN EQUIPMENT INC.

© 2022 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. , TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates.

Products in the United States (U.S.) are distributed by BRP US Inc. Always ride responsibly and safely.

29: Sault Ste. Marie, MI. Snowmobile Advisory Workgroup Meeting, InPerson, 9am-12:30pm, LSSU, Anchor Room, 650 W. Easterday Avenue, for more info visit misorva.org Calendar of Events

COR POWERSPORTS NATIONAL CROSS COUNTRY CORPOWERSPORTS.COM MAR 18-19: Ironwood, Michigan

734-439-2149 734-439-2149 11024 Dennison Rd Milan,RdMIMilan, MI 11024 Dennison www.bobsarcticcat.com www.bobsarcticcat.com

R EF INED & PR IMED. L E T ’S R IDE.

21/08/23 17:24

Year-round Adventure 01 Starts at the Dunes

SKI-MY23-Endemic-TR-REN-XRS-v2-MDSnowmobile-Print-FP-Mar2022-ENUS.indd

NEW SKI-DOO Sleds & ATV/UTV’s In Stock!

BRP

Ski-Doo

Endemic Print Ads

PS28023Z

MY23 Trail Renegade v2 Ad Size: Full Page

Format: 8.25” X 10.75”

2022-02-15 AR

ENNA Bleed: 0.25”

Safety: 0.25”

© 2021 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc. Offer is valid in select market only, from May 1, 2021, to July 31, 2021.

Eligible units are select Can-Am Defender models sold and warranty-registered during the promotional period. The terms and conditions may vary and these offers are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. †Rebate of up to $1,750 on select Can-Am Defender models: Eligible units are all new and unused Can-Am Defender models, excluding all XMR packages and 2020 Defender PRO models. Qualifying buyers of eligible models will receive a $1,000 rebate per vehicle when purchasing two or more Defender models and a rebate of up to $1,750 per vehicle when purchasing six or more Defender models. While quantities last. BRP recommends that all ATV-SSV drivers take a training course. See your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs and SSVs can be hazardous to operate. Never carry passengers on any ATV-SSV not specifi cally designed by the manufacturer for such use. All adult-model Can-Am ATVs are category G ATVs (general-use models) intended for recreational and/or utility use by an operator age 16 or older.

Carefully read the vehicle’s operator’s guide. Follow all instructional and safety material and observe applicable laws and regulations. ATVs and SSVs are for off-road use only; never ride on paved surfaces or public roads. For your safety, the operator and passenger(s) must wear a helmet, eye protection and applicable protective clothing. Always remember that riding, alcohol and drugs don’t mix. Never engage in stunt driving. Avoid excessive speed and be particularly careful on diffi cult terrain. Always ride responsibly and safely.

See your authorized BRP dealer for details and visit www.can-am.brp.com.

Ad Number: N/A C M Y K Publication: Midwest Snowmobiles Magazine

Sales - Parts - Accessories - Service

Insertion Date(s): March 2022

ATTENTION — Trapping to be done by the printer according to the printer’s specs.

Rental of Ski-Doo / Can-Am

Only 1 hour west of Mackinac Bridge in Curtis, MI $1,750

AGRICULTURAL & COMMERCIAL BUSINESSES QUALIFY FOR MULTI-UNIT DISCOUNTS UP TO

†

906-586-9531

PER UNIT. ONLY ON SELECT DEFENDER MODELS.

• Stay at the trail head • Full hot breakfast • Large indoor pool and hot tub • Close to local restaurants

231-873-3456

fishandhuntshop.com mickg@fishandhuntshop.com rentals@fishandhuntshop.com

© 2022 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc. ATVs and SSVs can be hazardous to operate. Never carry passengers on any ATV-SSV not specifically designed by the manufacturer for such use. All adult-model Can-Am ATVs are category G ATVs (general-use models) intended for recreational and/or utility use by an operator age 16 or older. Carefully read the vehicle’s operator’s guide. Follow all instructional and safety material and observe applicable laws and regulations. ATVs and SSVs are for off-road use only; never ride on paved surfaces or public roads. For your safety, the operator and passenger(s) must wear a helmet, eye protection and applicable protective clothing. Always remember that riding, alcohol and drugs don’t mix.

Never engage in stunt driving. Avoid excessive speed and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Always ride responsibly and safely. See your authorized BRP dealer for details and visit www.can-am.brp.com.

Find Us On Facebook!

© 2021 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc. Offer is valid in select market only, from May 1, 2021, to July 31, 2021.

Eligible units are select Can-Am Defender models sold and warranty-registered during the promotional period. The terms and conditions may vary and these offers are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. †Rebate of up to $1,750 on select Can-Am Defender models: Eligible units are all new and unused Can-Am Defender models, excluding all XMR packages and 2020 Defender PRO models. Qualifying buyers of eligible models will receive a $1,000 rebate per vehicle when purchasing two or more Defender models and a rebate of up to $1,750 per vehicle when purchasing six or more Defender models. While quantities last. BRP recommends that all ATV-SSV drivers take a training course. See your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs and SSVs can be hazardous to operate. Never carry passengers on any ATV-SSV not specifi cally designed by the manufacturer for such use. All adult-model Can-Am ATVs are category G ATVs (general-use models) intended for recreational and/or utility use by an operator age 16 or older.

Carefully read the vehicle’s operator’s guide. Follow all instructional and safety material and observe applicable laws and regulations. ATVs and SSVs are for off-road use only; never ride on paved surfaces or public roads. For your safety, the operator and passenger(s) must wear a helmet, eye protection and applicable protective clothing. Always remember that riding, alcohol and drugs don’t mix. Never engage in stunt driving. Avoid excessive speed and be particularly careful on diffi cult terrain. Always ride responsibly and safely.

See your authorized BRP dealer for details and visit www.can-am.brp.com.

Jan/Feb 2024 15

SNOW

FOR EVERY RIDER 2024 YAMAHA SNOWMOBILES FAMILY I FRIENDS I FUN

BABBITT’S SPORTS CENTER 3712 AIRLINE RD MUSKEGON, MI BABBITTSONLINE.COM

INDIAN RIVER SPORTS CENTER 562 S STRAITS HWY INDIAN RIVER, MI IR-SC.COM

MEYER YAMAHA, INC. 1355 US HIGHWAY 41 WEST ISHPEMING, MI MEYERYAMAHA.COM

PLATINUM POWERSPORTS – ROCKFORD 11745 CEDAR ROCK DR NE ROCKFORD, MI PLATINUMPOWERSPORTS.COM

U.S. 27 MOTORSPORTS 5301 N US HIGHWAY 27 SAINT JOHNS, MI US27MOTORSPORTS.COM

BIG JIM’S SPORTS UNLIMITED 3137 US 23 S ALPENA, MI SPORTSUNLIMITEDRV.COM

K & W CYCLES, INC. 4090 AUBURN RD SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MI KWCYCLE.COM

NELSON’S SPEED SHOP 4566 S GREENVILLE RD GREENVILLE, MI NELSONSSPEEDSHOP.COM

PLATINUM POWERSPORTS – COLOMA 5270 PAW PAW LAKE RD COLOMA, MI PLATINUMPOWERSPORTS.COM

ZEIGLER MOTORSPORTS 5001 PARK CIRCLE DR KALAMAZOO, MI ZEIGLERMOTORSPORTS.COM

CLASSIC MOTOR SPORTS 3939 S BLUE STAR DR TRAVERSE CITY, MI CLASSICTC.COM

LAKESIDE MOTOR SPORTS, INC. 10964 90TH AVE MECOSTA, MI LAKESIDEMOTORSPORTS.NET

PAT’S AUTO & SPORTS CENTER 10612 HWY M-38 GREENLAND, MI PATSMOTORSPORTS.COM

SPEED NATION POWERSPORTS, INC. 56605 PONTIAC TRL NEW HUDSON, MI SPEEDNATIONPOWERSPORTS.COM

FOX POWERSPORTS 720 44TH ST SW WYOMING, MI FOXPOWERSPORTS.COM

M & M POWERSPORTS INC. 90 NAVY ST HANCOCK, MI MMPOWERSPORTS.COM

PLANET POWERSPORTS 647 E CHICAGO RD COLDWATER, MI PLANET-POWERSPORTS.COM

T & R YAMAHA, INC. 215 MAIN ST EAST JORDAN, MI TANDRYAMAHA.COM

YAMAHASNOWMOBILES.COM

©2023 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Product and specifications subject to change without notice. Professional rider on closed course under controlled conditions. Model shown with optional accessories. Always wear an approved helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Ride responsibly and always ride within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvering, and respect others around you. Know the conditions. Observe all state and local laws. Don’t drink and ride.

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