Merry Christ m
as
PRODUCT Review
Annual Snowmobile Convention
DATED MATERIAL December 2011 • Vol 37 No. 3
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ADVERTISING DIRECTOR/EDITOR Keri Wanner 1600 E Century Avenue, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503-0649 (701) 328-5377 • FAX: (701) 328-5363 E-mail: snodak@midconetwork.
STAFF
Publisher: Advertising Director/ Editor Graphic Designer: Production Engineers: Contributing Writers:
Brian Gidley Keri Wanner Denise Sanzo Chelsey Thronson Sandy Durisin Clark Scheurman Josh Siferd Keith Moore Keri Wanner
CONTRIBUTORS: We welcome unsolicited materials and letters for possible publication. The Sno-Dak News accepts no responsibility for returns, losses or damage of unsolicited materials. The Sno-Dak News is the official publication of Snowmobile North Dakota. CF41, 9.SNO-DAK NEWS USPS 393-110) is published six times each year in the months of October, November, December, January, February and March at Bismarck, ND 58501. Periodicals postage paid at SUBSCRIPTION: Subscriptions available through membership to Snowmobile North Dakota for $20 per year. Enclose payment and mail to above mailing address. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: SNO-DAK NEWS 1600 E Century Avenue, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503-0649
where to go...
1600 E Century Avenue, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503-0649 (701) 328-5377 • FAX: (701) 328-5363 www.snowmobilend.org President: Marty Malachowski V. President: Glenn Herz Program Manager: Keri Wanner
Departments
SND Board Messages .........................4+6 Region Reports............................................8
Features
Snowmobile Convention............... 10-11 Product Review ...................................... 12 Club Reports ................................. 17-19
SNDCALENDAR OF EVENTS
December 7th: Gasmann Coulee Cruisers Monthly Meeting at 7:30 pm at the Stromberg’s. December 10th: Dakota Trailblazers Fun Run, 11am5pm, Big Dogs Surrey. December 12th: Space Aliens Helping Earthlings Fundraiser at Space Aliens in Bismark, Fargo, Grand Forks and Mont! December 13th: Sno-Trails monthly meeting, 7:30 pm, Driftbusters Clubhouse. December 15th: First Benchmark forms are due in the SND office. December 31st: Mouse River Sled Runners Fun Run, 11am-5pm, Towner.
ADVERTISING RATES Multiple Issue Rates Full Page Spread.....................$1458.00 Page & 1/3 .............................$990.00 Full Page ..............................$730.00 Half Page (H) ...........................$422.00 1/3 Page .............................$313.00 1/4 Page ................ ..............$208.00 1/6 Page Vertical ..................$156.00 Business Card Horizontal ..............$105.00 COPYRIGHT: All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. DISCLAIMER: The contents of advertisements which appear in the Sno-Dak NEWS are solely the responsibility of advertisers. Advertiser Index page 15
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December 2011
President Greetings to the SND Family
ki
lachows a M y t r a M
OFFICERS
and Sledheads! WOW wasn’t that a Convention!! My Helmet is off to the Gasmann Coulee Cruisers for sponsoring the 33rd SND Convention, its fun networking with the SND Family. Many thanks to the Snowmobile Dealerships that presented the new / used sleds and clothing, the dealerships put in allot of time setting up and tearing down. You have helped make the vender show fantastic for many years and I hope you have another good sales year. I want to pat everyone on the back who made it to all the meetings, seminars, classes and banquet. I realize many that didn’t make it were in the field combining and putting up hay. Put December 1, 2012 on your calendar for next years SND Convention in Rugby, N.D. We are hoping the number of attendance rises and if not, we will go back to the last week of October.
Try to get the trails signed in time and let the office know immediately if you need to move any trails. We definitely will work out any issues as they arrive at the SND office. Remember the trail may open on December 1st depending on snow conditions and the first Benchmark is 15 December. Welcome to the new Board Members and SND will miss the members who left this year, you definitely kept SND informed of your regions and attended many committee meetings. You have made the SND office and my job so much easier, thank-you from the bottom of my heart. Tom Clemens from Region 4 was on three committees: Promotion, Membership, Convention, Awards and Nominations Committee/ Legislation, Bylaws, Enforcement and Safety Committee/ Accident Safety Review Committee. I know he was just starting to get involved with many decisions last year, there were some tuff decisions made and they were the right ones. Thanks for your input and all the time you have donated. Brad Rodin will be taking over for Tom and he has been on the board before so we definitely welcome your experience.
Alright, who ran off with the infamous RED HORN at the Convention? I happened to get lucky on the silent auction and the Dakota Trailblazers bid $140.00, the funds go to the Grant and Aid Fund. Funny how simple things make so much fun! By the way Dan T., you and I
Missy Sjolin from Region 4 was our Past President and has kept me on track from her 3 years as past president and many years on the SND Board. I have learned so much from you and SND will truly miss you. I wish you success in your job, happiness with your family and hope to see you at the next SND event. Missy has been involved with every committee at one time or another; she has been a mentor to the Board of Directors that has made SND what is today. Missy, You ROCK! We welcome back Byron Norsby from Region 1 as the director at large, Byron has been on the board many times and he is a great asset when it comes to the budget and decisions on the equipment. It’s time to go ride with a friend and to introduce a new person to the sport this year. Here’s is something new the Dakota Trailblazers are doing this year to help with the fuel bill, for every ticket we sell at our Fun Run we donate $1.00 from the ticket to the trail fuel bill. We might just get another pass with the groomer. Pray to the Snow Gods and remember to thank the guy in the groomer for the fantastic trails! Happy Snowy Trails to You!
Past President
n i l o j S y s Mis I would like to start out my article by saying Thank You to all of you. I have enjoyed many great years on the SND Board in one position or another and this would not have been possible 4
have to do a shooter down the funnel at the 2012 State Ride at Southern Valley Trail Riders Assoc. January 28th, 2012 in Mooreton, N.D.
www.snowmobilend.org
without all of you. I meet new friends, experienced adventures I never would have known without being part of the SND Board, and most of all I have enjoyed spending time with many great friends. So with that I would like to say a big
Thank you to all of you and a super snowmobiling season.
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
December 2011
www.snowmobilend.org
Program Manager
With the launch of so many programs this fall, it’s easy to get excited about the programs achievements. Snowmobile North Dakota (SND) is truly successful and it’s because of you, the members. It’s the members that make the clubs fun and eventful and the state snowmobile trails function. When working the program on a daily basis it’s easy to skip over the achievements. But take a step back and look at the success and they are tremendous!!! One of those achievements this fall is the Sno-Dak News e-magazine!! I believe in being in the right place at the right time and looking for opportunity. I was presented with an opportunity this summer that I’m so thankful for and now am excited to announce to the members. SND welcomes Chelsey Thronson to the office as the Graphics Designer of the e-magazine. She’s helped keep me sane and assist with advertising sales plus is working hard to create an e-magazine that reaches to the industry. In one month the e-magazine’s circulation numbers increased with over 500 additional views. With the launch of the November 2011 issue, the e-magazine reached over 600 additional views in one week!!! Phenomenal!!! SND’s
In 2006, SND started hosting a silent auction table during the convention. This fundraiser has increased the principal in the grant and scholarship accounts by 10% annually for five consecutive years.
funding. The Board of Directors actively pursued alternative resources for meetings such as conference calls and email discussions. Implementing new forms of communication tools for the meetings reduced the Board of Director meeting expenses by 58% in a two year period.
OFFICERS
r e n n a Keri W
goal was to double circulation numbers from 2,500 per month to over 5,000 by the end of the 20112012 season. I believe we are on a great start!!!! Way to go Chelsey!!!! Since 2002, the state equipment fleet has increased from 10 to 14 groomers and the fleet value increased from $825,000 to $1.6 million. The equipment purchases have always been leveraged with grants so the snowmobile trail program was only responsible for 20% of the total cost. SND partnered with the Pink Ribbon Riders in 2009. The partnership has helped raise over $75,000 for the Pink Ribbon Rider’s Patient Assistance Program. The program provides $500 gift cards to breast cancer patients in the state to help offset medical and cost of living expenses. To learn more about the program visit www.pinkribbonriders. com and most of all participate in the ND Snow Run on January 13th and 14th, 2012 at Twin Oaks on Lake Metigoshe. The Membership Rewards Program increased membership sales by 15% when the program was started. The program was revamped in 2010 and membership has remained steady. North Dakota snowmobile registrations increased by 12% last biennium.
Great work everyone!! These are excellent achievements!!!
Special thanks to the Board of Directors for your continued support and guidance. We make a great team!!! Props to the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department’s Recreation Division!! The division has done an excellent job making SND a part of the team and we truly enjoy the partnership and commoradory. The SND staff has done an excellent job working together. Todd and Tari have been excellent to work with and go above and beyond every step of the way. And most of all, thanks to my husband Corey. He supports my career 100% and does the same for SND. He’s always the guy behind the scenes that never gets any credit for the work he does. SND is just as fortunate as I am to have him in my life!!! Merry Christmas everyone!!! Hope Santa fills your stockings with snow!!!!
The dealer safety fee was passed during the 2009 legislative session and placed into law during the 20092011 biennium. The fee resulted in a 50% increase in funding creating new safety opportunities for the state. The fees to attend a class increased from $10/student to $20/ student. This increase also resulted in an additional 50% increase to the funds. The goal with these increases was to make the program sustainable instead of relying largely on grant
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
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December 2011
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Blk & White
SND Assistant
Tari NorbyBlk
OFFICERS
It’s that time of the year again when another SND Convention has come and gone. This year it was held by the Gasmann Coulee Cruisers in Minot at the Grand International Inn. We had another successful silent action table that raised $2,600 that will be split between the Scholarship and the Grant and Aid programs. The Furtle
Turtle Tie was auctioned off and the Gasmann Coulee Cruisers won it with the winning bid of $1,900, with proceeds being donated to the &allWhite Minot Flood Relief Fund. I would like to take this time and say Thank You to everyone that was included in on my surprise birthday. I had once told Keri that she couldn’t surprise me anymore, man was I wrong!! Also, I would like to thank Voss Signs, out of New York, for making me my very own “Atari” sign!! You guys Rock!! I can’t wait to hang it up in the office!
This past weekend Keri and I attended the 2011 Saskatchewan Snowmobile Show in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, which was held by the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association. This was Snowmobile North Dakota’s first ever international snow show. We handed out around 100 promotional folders and answered many questions about our states snowmobile trails. Can’t wait to see everyone out on the trails this season!!
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Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
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December 2011
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Snowmobile North Dakota Inducts Paul Christenson into Hall of Fame Snowmobile North Dakota is excited to announce the induction of Jerry Paul Christenson into the organization’s Hall of Fame. Hall of Fame recipients are recognized for their dedication and years of service to the snowmobile industry. The inductees must have made an impact advancing the state snowmobile program and helping it grow to where it is today.
While serving on the Snowmobile North Dakota Board of Directors, he was selected to be a snowmobile representative on the Recreational Trail Program’s grant committee. Paul’s knowledge and experience of the Recreational Trail Program, helped the snowmobile trail program purchase equipment and signs for the trail systems in the state.
Paul Christenson became a member of Snowmobile North Dakota in 1994. He is a member of the Northern Exposure Snowmobile Club holding Trail Coordinator and Groomer Operator positions. In 1997, he was elected as a Northeast Director for Snowmobile North Dakota. A year later in 1998, Paul was elected to the Executive Board as the Northeast’s representative.
During Paul’s ten years with Snowmobile North Dakota, he also served as Vice President and President of the organization. Based on Paul’s training and experience with equipment, he was instrumental player in developing materials for the groomer operations training. Plus he spent countless hours in the classroom and behind the wheel training the next groomer operators for the state.
Paul was an advocate in making sure the snowmobile program excelled in its mission, “to generate excitement for the sport of snowmobiling”. Making the state snowmobile trail program a number one priority in all Snowmobile North Dakota business!!! The program couldn’t have accomplished what it has today without his guidance and outstanding commitment making him a face that will never be forgotten!!!
Paul’s Welcome to the SND Hall of Fame As most of you know, Snowmobile North Dakota (SND) has been a part of my family for over 20 years. I feel privileged to say members of the organization are a part of my family. All of you have impacted my life in so many ways and I’m forever grateful. I want to share a personal story with all of you. In 2003 my family was faced with some tough decisions. As I watched my father lie in a hospital bed, hoping and praying for the best, we had to have some tough talks about his future. I for the life of me would never have guessed a few short months later I would have had to say goodbye. But I am so grateful for this opportunity. Dad helped prepare Mom and I for a potential life without him. At the time, I didn’t want to hear this but now I know why I had too. Dad told me although he knew we would miss one another, he knew I’d be OK!!! He knew I was strong and independent but most of all he knew I was surrounded by good people. I credit SND for helping me get through saying goodbye to my Dad and best friend. Paul Christenson was one of those individuals I couldn’t have lived without. He is truly an amazing individual that not only provided guidance and support to me when I needed it most but to SND as well. He helped SND grow leaps and bounds!!! I am honored to know such an Awesomo 5000 snowmobiler!!! The next time you see Paul on the trail!! Shake his hand and say thanks for all of the good work he did while helping to guide the state snowmobile trail program. Congrates Paul!
Keri Wanner
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Dale Deibert Region 1 Season Greetings and Happy Holidays from Snowmobile North Dakota Region 1. The fall season is in the air with snow in the forecast for the weekend. The local snowmobile clubs have been busy putting up trail signs, the high water levels along the trail system has been a challenge for all the clubs. The clubs are hoping for a good freeze before much snow is receives so the water areas freeze up. The area clubs have scheduled their Fun Runs for the season. The Fun Runs start on December 10th hosted by the Dakota Trailblazers in Surrey, December 31st hosted by the Mouse River Sled Runners in Towner, January 7th by the Magic City Driftskippers in Ruthville, January 21st by the Gasmann Coulee Cruisers in Folxholm, February 4th by the Ghost Riders Snowmobile Club in Velva and February 25th by the Sno-Trails Association. The Gasmann Coulee Cruiser Snowmobile Club of Burlington hosted the 33rd Annual Snowmobile North Dakota Convention on October 28, 29 and 30th at the Grand International Inn in Minot. The weekend was filled with meetings, safety class, swap meet, trail signing and groomer operation classes, a Fall into Winter Vendor Show and Banquet and DJ dance. A good time was had by all, the kids especially had a good time. The Pink Ribbon Riders Breast Cancer Ride is at Lake Metigoshe at the Twins Oaks Resort on January 13th and 14th. The Snowmobile North Dakota Sate Ride is on January 28th at Mooreton, ND hosted by the Southern Valley Trailriders Association. Please remember to get your snowmobile registered and licensed and get liability Insurance on your sled. See you on the trails this winter.
Tonia Dosch Region 2 Director
Today as you read this article, I hope you are just taking a break from riding snowmobile. As I write this article (11/1/11), the sun is shining, its 55 degrees out and no signs of snow. But that is soon to change! Well fellow snowmobilers, it is time to get prepared for another trip to the Rugby area in 2012. The Northern Lights Trail Blazers will be hosts to the 2012 SND Convention. Other than it being held there for the first time ever, SND along with NLTB have elected to change the date of the convention to December 1st. Convention happenings will all be happening on the 1st, but come to Rugby on Friday because there
is sure to be some fun! For those of you who came early to the State Ride last year, you will remember what a good time that was had at the warming house the night before. Those of you who didn’t make it, you surely missed out, so don’t be that person again!! Hopefully Mother Nature works in our favor, and we can have a Fun Run that weekend! Watch the Region articles and updates from NLTB for the itinerary for the 2012 Convention. Northern Lights Trail Blazers are planning their annual run for Jan. 7th, 2012. See you there. Be sure to check out the improved SND website (www.snowmobilend.org) for updates on upcoming events across the state.
Perry Brintnell Region 3 Hello snowmobile enthusiasts I would like to start off by saying thank you to the Gasman Coulee cruisers for such a wonderful time at the convention and also for being such a hospitable group of people. Congratulations goes out to all the off the year awardees. They all deserve it for their work and dedication towards the sport of snowmobiling. Congratulations to Paul Christianson on being inducted into the Hall of Fame his volunteer time plus all the meetings through the years is huge so congratulations again Paul you deserve it. At this time all clubs are trying to get their Trails signed I would like to remind the signers to remember that you are not only signing for the riders but you are also signing for the groomer operators as well. Make sure the groomers can see that next sign. Make sure that they are not going to hit anything. Show them where you want them to go. Use Corridors if you have to. We all love the sport of snowmobiling lets make it as safe as possible. I was at the Red River North meeting the other night and some USCC cross country officials were there. They were explaining what one of their sponsors was doing it was really nice to here it. They are going to have a 120 demo ride after you do it they put your name in a hat and at the end of the day you have a chance to win it. Some young guy or gal is really going to be happy. So I close by saying take a young one riding and our sport will grow. Safe snowmobiling
Tom Clemens Region 4 Hello everyone I am writing this after attending the state convention. A GREAT time was had by everyone, thanks to the Gasmann coulee Cruisers for hosting the convention. With that behind us that means the season is upon us and it is time to turn our attention to the upcoming season. That means grubbing and signing
the areas that need it. I would like to remind everyone to please be careful and are out there. I hope to see you on the trail this year!
Greg Strommen Region 5 Hopefully we have a snowy greeting from Region 5 as you read this! First things first people..... January 28. Go to your calendar on the wall or on your smart phone. Now double check that it reads “State Snowmobile Ride Mooreton North Dakota” Then proceed to the weekend before (January 21) and see if you have that reminder for “”SNOWJAM 2012”” marked down! Boy I can only hope that we have good weather and great turnouts for these events. Check out “North Dakota State Ride” and “SnowJam” on Facebook as well. Have you ever been talking with friends that have told you those stories about State Rides they have been in and or when they went to SnowJam and you missed it and wished you went...... Well lets try to make THIS year the year that you get to be one of those people that talk about the good time that they had! Ok on to current events. Since I just got back from yet another fun state convention I wanted to thank all those that helped to put that event together! Thank you!! Our trail signing is really starting to look promising this year! A lot of our trails we hold off until signing so the Farmers do not have the signs in the way when traveling down Township roads and at their approach crossings. This year they are mostly done as I write this article! Kudos to Mom Nature for giving the guys a break at least on that end of it even though the yields were nothing to write home about.... Reminders that Red River Sno Riders meet the first Tuesday of the Month at Wild Rice Grill and Bar at 7pm. Southern Valley Trail Riders meet the first Wednesday of every month at Paula’s in Mooreton, ND 7pm. The Rural Cass Snowmobile Club meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7pm located at Pizza Ranch in Casselton. Please check each respective clubs web or facebook page as there is a lot of information regarding meetings and other events going on. Reminder to thank the landowners that allow us to put the trails on their land! This goes for other trails that you ride on as well!! Until we see you on the trail again, Have a fun winter!!
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Rock the 33rd Annual Snowmobile Convention
Gasmann Coulee Cruisers
Generosity, Education, Awesomo 5000, Goals and Family!!! Don’t get much better than that and the 33rd Annual Snowmobile Convention had it all. How did SND get so lucky?!?! One word, “PASSION”!!! It doesn’t get much better than sticking a bunch of snowmobilers in one room to talk snowmobiles, the excitement builds from there!! The ND Parks and Recreation Department conducted an avalanche training session during the event. Special thanks to Rich Gummersall with the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation for providing his presentations to the Department. Matt did an excellent job instructing the class in hopes of keeping our ND residents safe!!! Remember avalanches occur in areas where you least expect so make sure you have the proper education before heading west!! Yes, this goes for everyone, trail riders included!!!! SND’s agenda was quite aggressive. President Marty Malachowski recapped the 2010-2011 trail
meetings with each region and spoke of areas of interest from the members. The meetings were very successful and provided some great direction for the future. The biggest item of discussion was the 2013-2018 Strategic Plan. The Board of Directors and ND Parks and Recreation’s team have worked aggressively at trying to reach goals from the current strategic plan and have done so with flying colors. The team is trying to get a step ahead of the game so we have research conducted for the 2013 Legislative Session. The members wanted to see the snowmobile registration increased, so this is a priority in the plan. Other topics include demographics of a North Dakota snowmobiler and Sno-Dak News reader, marketing direction and snowmobile operating requirements for youth. As the plan development gets closer, we’ll need your assistance on completing surveys and direction. The e-magazine and website were launched in September with tons of success. We hope to keep that success growing. Please remember it’s important to share the e-magazine. We can track every view of the magazine and the November issue launched with over 500 views in the first week along.
Phenomenal!!! At the end of October the membership module was launched on the SND website. This is a great component for clubs, especially the secretaries keeping track of membership. The module functions similar to the old websites forum, however, the new format allows for clubs to manage and pay memberships online. Click the “Membership Access” icon on the homepage of the website, and then select “Register”. You won’t have access to the memberships until SND’s staff approves you. At the time of approval you will have access to login to the site. On the welcome page you will see a button that says “Pay Now”. Before selecting this option make sure the club is signed up for a Paypal account. This is free and can be tied to the clubs checking account. Once the memberships are all entered, select the “Pay Now” option. You will have the ability to select how many memberships and the type of membership you are purchasing. This isn’t required and SND will still gladly enter the memberships for you. SND has been asked for this for a while, making it easier to handle club renewals so clubs don’t have to always retype membership lists. Please contact SND if you have any questions. The best part of the weekend was the generosity. The silent auction table generated
by Keri Wanner
$2,600 for the Grant & Aid and Scholarship programs. There were less items on the silent auction table and yet we were only $100 short of last year’s record breaking amount of $2,700. Members, “You Rock”!!!! The Furtle Turtles were at it again selling gimmick’s fundraising for the latest cause. All funds generated went to the Minot Flood Relief Efforts. The tie itself auctioned for an amazing $1,900. Gasmann Coulee Cruisers you blew us away with the generosity and we hope you enjoy the tie to the fullest for the 2011-2012 season. We better see it make an appearance at State Ride. A UND Sioux Hockey blanket was also auctioned for $250. The Furtle Turtles generated $2,500 for the Minot Flood Relief Efforts. Awesomo 5000!!!!
We are also proud to see the famous “Horn” back in the rightful hands of its original owner!!! Marty we can’t wait to see you out and about with your shiny red horn!!!! Ok, so maybe the shininess has worn off but the “Horn” will never lose its value and what it’s done for SND’s silent auction table. Since the famous “Horn” hit the silent auction table in 2006, it’s raised over $650. Keep up the excellent work everyone!!! Wishing every club successful events and don’t forget
to let us know the event dates. ND Parks and Recreation would like the dates as soon as possible to schedule enforcement. See you on the trails and let’s make every event as successful as the convention.
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help you stay safe in case of an unplanned overnighter in the backcountry. It includes essentials to help you stay warm and dry, and tools to help you signal and be seen by friends or rescuers. Throw it in your pack and forget it -- that way it will be there when you need it! The Fire Bolt container is adjustable in length so you can add some personal items if you want. • Foil (provides dry space to start a fire) *30’ Braided Cord • 1 pkg Nato styleWind / Waterproof Matches *1 Warmer Package • 4 Fire Sticks (approx 12 minutes each) *1 Emergency Blanket • 2 Strips Signal Flagging (approx. 5’ each) *4 Pieces Hard Candy • 1 4-Way Whistle (w/thermometer, *1 Non-breakable • compass & magnifying glass) Mirror for signaling • 4 Heavy-duty safety pins *1 Emergency LED Light • 1 Small Lock-blade Knife (style may vary) TAG-BOLT $29.95 True Adventure Gear www.TAGear.us
TAGear’s HandleBar Bag – securely attaches to most mountain bars and sleds with bar risers. We’ve
attached the Bag to the handlebar and number plates on dirt bikes, and to racks on both dirt bikes and ATVs. It’s also a fanny pack! New stretch cordura pockets & stretch cord on each end will hold a small water bottle. New quick-release accessory strap and webbing loop allows for a better fit on more sleds. All zippers on the HandleBar Bag are YKK water-resistant. Large padded main pocket to hold cameras or tools, 3 smaller outside zip pockets, an interior zip pocket & key hook. Lots of ways to attach extra gear. Outside dimensions: 12” wide x 9” high x 4” deep $59.95
True Adventure Gear www.TAGear.us 208-562-1391
North Dakota Snowmobile
State Ride
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Running Throughout Richland County & Ending in Mooreton, ND
More stops the better chance to win! DJ’s Barney Paula’s, Moorton Mooreton Sports Bar, Mooreton Brewers, Walcott Fort Saloon, Abercrombie Colfax Tavern, Colfax
Terrace Lanes, Wahpeton Cowgal’s Saloon, Great Bend Texas Crossing, Tyler Mantador VFW, Mantador The Well, Wyndmere Homestead Lounge, Wyndmere
Fun Run may be done by Snowmobile, Car or Bus- Everyone welcome!
Vintage Snowmobile Show & Ride
Registration for Fun Run & Vintage Ride -starting at 9:00amMooreton Community Hall, Mooreton, ND
FUN RUN
Fun Run Drawing will be from 4-7pm At the Mooreton Community Hall Grand Prize Drawing & Raffle Drawings at 10pm
DJ & Dance from 8pm till Midnight Sponsored by the
Southern Valley Trail Rider’s Associations
Wahpeton Convention & Visitors Bureau is making “Safe Rides” possible for later Saturday night. Room Reservations: Baymont Inn in Wahpeton (along 210 bypass – easy snowmobile trail access) www.baymontinns.com or 800-337-0550 Rooms are blocked under “North Dakota State Snowmobile Ride” for January 27th through the 29th, 2012
Check out our Facebook page @ Southern Valley Trail Riders Association
For More Info-Email drb@rrt.net And watch our SND Website www.snowmobilend.com
TRACK INC.
www.snowmobilend.org
Track Inc. - Grooming over, under, or through water can be expensive and dangerous! December starts – a little snow falls – and someone, somewhere will sink their Tucker. It happens every year. I’d love to tell you a Tucker will float – but it is not true, and our recommendation is to avoid driving over water or through water. So how do you prevent this? Area’s with open water need to freeze. Area’s full of vegetation need to be packed down to allow proper freeze up. Early snow can prevent freezing, especially on bogs and swamps and water filled ditches. We recommend taking snowmobiles out on the trail first. Inspect the trail and make note of areas that are not safe. Use snowmobiles to pack down vegetation and allow time for it to set up. Next, take the groomer out without the drag. Use the blade to push snow into swampy areas and pack it down. This is also a good time to build snow bridges and approaches that will make for a good trail later in the season. Once the trail is packed down and adequately frozen – then you can attach the drag and groom. But remember – even clubs who do everything right can still get stuck. So how should you get it out? Take your time … it is not going anywhere. Fully access the situation. Disconnect the drag if you can. This step might make it possible to drive out. Whenever possible; line up the tracks and put planks or aluminum ladders under them to drive on. Many clubs are able to drive a Tucker out of the water once the stuck track(s) is freed from an ice shelf or object and simply given something that provides traction to drive on. If it can not be driven out – then carefully lift it out. Whatever you use to lift it out with must be on firm ground!!! Use some type of mat to distribute the weight of the equipment you are using. Consider where you are putting the chain and how it will effect the equipment. Try to free the tracks before you lift – and try to lift from a direction that eases the vehicle out of the problem area. Lift slowly, making sure the vehicle is lifting in one piece and nothing is ripping off. If you have any questions – give Track Inc. a call and ask our technicians. Our office number will automatically forward to our cell phones for night and weekend coverage. And then, when everyone is home and safe, send us your pictures. Lorene Hanson, President, Track Inc. 14
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
www.snowmobilend.org
North Dakota Park’s & Recreation
Mike Greetings from the Pembina Gorge! My name is Mike Duerre. I am the project manager for the Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area. A little bit of background and updated information for you…I started working up in Walhalla on this project in 2007 and the goal was to assess the area, department land, and the entire situation regarding Off Highway Vehicle use in the Pembina Gorge and the surrounding area. As you all know the implications of unwanted OHV use, we wanted to develop a plan which can be beneficial to both recreationists and land owners. So what we have come up with is a multiuse trail system which will allow for all types of recreation including motorized use, equestrian, hiking, biking, etc. The project has been and will be completed in phases over
Advertiser’s Index
December 2011
the upcoming years. I was able to utilize the Recreation Trails Program and receive funding for phase one which is nearing completion. It will consist of approximately 6 miles of new trail construction, existing trail and township roads to create a 12-13 mile loop. The opening for that trail will be next spring. I also received funding, again through RTP, to begin phase two, which will consist of a smaller amount of new construction but will incorporate the existing snowmobile trail through the gorge. The NDPRD has acquired long term, year round leases along these sections of the existing snowmobile trail to accommodate the multi-use trail. This will be beneficial for all users since we will be maintaining the trail throughout the year, aside from the snow grooming, and allowing people to enjoy the Pembina Gorge throughout the year. To clarify, this is the only section of snowmobile trail in the state where OHVs will be allowed to ride outside of the December-April snow season. All rules and regulations regarding
Pink Ribbon Riders............... 19
Action Motorsports................. 6
Ski Doo................................. IFC
Branding Iron........................... 9
SND State Ride...................... 13
Forestwood Hotel.................... 6
Spearfish................................ 11
Pink Ribbon Riders............... 16
Track......................................... 9
Johnson’s Sports.................... 7
True Adventure Gear............. 14
Joe’s Sport Center................... 3
Twin Oaks................................. 6
Moritz...................................... 15
U Motors................................... 9
North Park Visitors.................. 9
Yamaha..................................BC
OHV’s and the snowmobile trail remain the same across the state as they have been in the past. With regards to Phase Two, it’s going to take a fair amount of work to recondition and incorporate sustainability into that trail for year round use, but we are up for the task. With this loop, we will add another 9-10 miles of multiuse trail to phase one for a total of 22-24 miles of looped trail. Our plan is to incorporate spur routes off of that route in the future. That’s where we are at for the Pembina Gorge project at this time, if you have any questions regarding the Pembina Gorge project, please call my office at 701-549-2444 or email me at mduerre@nd.gov.
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2540 Marina Road SE Mandan, ND 58554 Dealer Imprint 701-222-2000 Goes Here Toll Free 888-338-6544 www.moritzmarine.com Boasting contributions of over $2M to North American snowmobile clubs, to date.
©2011 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. *Result based on independent third-party dyno test. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US, Inc. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always observe applicable local laws and regulations. Always wear appropriate clothing, including a helmet. Don’t drink and drive. 1107459
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
15
Club News Grayscale
September/October 2010 December 2011 www.snowmobilend.org January 2011
www.snowmobilend.org
RED RIVER SNOWMOBILE CLUB By Steve Magnuson The Red River Snowmobile Club has been busy so far. We have had meetings, got out trails signed, our groomer is ready to go, we have 4 weekend rips planned for the season, some local day trips planned, and some winter projects ready to go. Hopefully the snow will come and we will be able to get everything in this season. Have a great year and see you on the trails!
RURAL CASS SNOWMOBILE By Char Gust
Get Trail Updates as Text Messages Snowmobilers in the Fargo and rural Cass areas will have the opportunity to get trail and grooming updates on their mobile phones this season, using the latest text messaging technologies. “Nowadays, we’re using texts everyday for other communication, so it only makes sense that we’d text you with snowmobile trail updates,” says Jason McSparron, president of
the Rural Cass Snowmobile Club. “We will use text messages to let you know trail opening and closing information, as well as announce when we’ve finished grooming that week.” If you are interested in the Rural Cass Snowmobile Club trail updates (Casselton, Leonard, Arthur, Harwood, Mapleton), send keyword “ruralcass” to 46986.
You can also get updates on SnowJam 2012 by texting “snowjam” to 46986. SnowJam is the area’s premier snowmobiling event, featuring a trail ride, vintage snowmobile display, tons of prizes and a fun evening event. Learn more about SnowJam at www.snowjam.org.
Join us for the 6th annual SnowJam event! It’s “flat-out fun” again this year for the 7th annual SnowJam event in Cass County. This snowmobile trail ride will be Saturday, Jan 21, headquartered at Hagge’s Bar and Grill in Mapleton, ND. Key components of the event include: Snowmobile trail ride – bring your sled and head out on the more than 100 miles of freshly groomed trails in rural Cass County, and stop as much as you like at the various SnowJam sponsor businesses Vintage snowmobile display and ride – participate in this display with your 1987 or older snowmobile, with prizes awarded for Best of Show and People’s Choice Snowmobile safety simulator – learn 16
how to balance on a snowmobile using this simulator provided by North Dakota Parks and Rec Prizes, drawings and evening social – relax after your day on the trail with food and a local band provided by Hagge’s Bar and Grill, and you’ll likely win a cash or door prize so don’t miss this end to a great day Not sure yet, if you should attend? Here are a few quotes from last years’ riders: • “The ride is great! Good times at the awards and fun at the giveaways and game playing! Fun to see young and old playing rock paper scissors!” • “I like riding on groomed trails and stopping at different businesses along the way. I also enjoyed all prizes that were
•
given away Saturday eve.” “I liked that there were a lot of prizes to be given out. The club did a very good job keeping everyone involved. I came to ride and meet other riders. I also came to support the snowmobile club, not many people get into snowmobiling like they used to and if it weren’t for organizations like this there would be no trails to ride on and keep the sport going. I really enjoyed participating in this event and will mark it on my calendar for next year.” For up-to-date details on SnowJam 2012, visit the event website at www.snowjam.org. This event is sponsored by the Rural Cass Snowmobile Club.
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
Club News
www.snowmobilend.org
December 2011
Rough riders snowmobile association club By Al Hoesel
Hello fellow snowmobilers ! As summer winds down and the hint of fall in the air ………. Sniff , Sniff …. 2 stroke smoke nummmmy First would like to say hope everyone is doing well after the terrible flood this spring . Hope and pray that when they say that won’t happen for another 500 years , that they could be right !!! hmmmmm whatever ! Will wait and see what mother nature does , heard rumor 200 inches --- come on – REALLY !!! As I do love sledding as you all do too ,but I do enjoy summer and having a home to live in too . Ok , back to club stuff, we had a great season last year . We created a communication group which created a trail map leaflet with advertisements and information of our trail system . We had a few fun
Hello fellow snowmobilers from the Roughriders! Well here we are , after a few club meetings under our belt and off to a very nice start to the new season . Our 1st meeting , 82 degrees outside and we were indoors going over what we need to start working on this season…… hmmmm . What dedicated souls we are !!!! We have decided to do a show n shine (sleds) at the Gateway mall in Bismarck Nov 19th , as membership drive event and just a good ol start to the sled season . What a great way to start the sledding camaraderie !!! The 2nd club meeting we got together at Kurt Steiner’s shop and put trail signs together , wow ! I now know why a person needs to go to school to get a better job!!! We all worked together awesome , but I know that I could not
runs , which went really well and we tried a snow scramble , which is a timed course event for something different. Being our first attempt at this we were not sure how it would turn out . It turned out well , but always can be better. We had allot of our own club members try it , as we are a competitive bunch !!!! Even I tried it ! As I am the (Tucker Hibbert) wannna-be, end of 1 lap I was all tuckered out and I had paid for another run ,geeeez ! All in all , we had loads of fun , camaraderie was awesome at all events we put on and everything went very well . With another great snow season , we had great trail/ ditch riding . With an awesome groomer operator (Don Schmidt) , 1st we got together did the trail signing and repair of signs .The snow came and Don working his magic to make some
really , really nice trails . From short tracks to long tracks we all enjoyed his hard work. Now if we could only get those that used the trail to be club members and mostly register their sleds, that would be really great too ! Well now onto the next sled season , will be interesting as we had many club members get new iron . Even though it doesn’t matter if you have old or new , to sled is top priority ! But Darn! I like having new stuff, best riding ,the fastest, the highest climber , etc !! It’s all about me --- not! Really excited for this season to start , the smell of crisp air and the crunch under foot of cold ice crystals ! No worries of stinkin flood issues/ mold or flood destruction . Let’s have a great sled season , wish all well and join a club!
be on a production line doing that all day long. Also someday ask Leeron and Don about the bright light, they must have been watching to many scary movies and tried to follow the light ☺ . Both had a little visit to doctors - drops/suave , now good to go again . Some of our club members have been out trail signing as our ditches have been mowed and after contacting the county they said go ahead and start signing . I need to get on this band wagon and have some fun too !!! Again we will have our trail system marked/signed perfectly before the snow fly’s , well done clubs members! We are still working on dates for future fun runs and getting our snow scramble to the next level of more fun!!! See you all on the snow soon!
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
17
Club News Grayscale
September/October 2010 www.snowmobilend.org January 2011
SOUTHERN VALLEY TRAIL RIDERS
By Renee Braun STUCK ON SNOW, HIGH ON WINTERTIME!
It’s almost here and we’re gearing up! Both of our sleds have been modified and are ready to groom for the 20112012 season. The Southern Valley Trail Riders Association is getting excited to host our very first North Dakota Snowmobile State Run on Saturday, January 28. We’ll be running through snow or shine; snowmobile, car or bus...you’re all welcome to join in the fun, and we’re having unlimited entries! The stops along the way are DJ’s, Barney; Paula’s & Doug’s too & Mooreton Sports Bar, Mooreton; Brewzers, Walcott; Colfax Tavern, Colfax; Terrace Lanes, Wahpeton; Cowgal’s Saloon, Great Bend; Texas Crossing, Tyler; Mantador VFW, Mantador; The Well & Homestead Grill & Lounge, Wyndmere and Fort Aber Saloon in Abercrombie. The more stamps you get, the better your chance to win. Fort Aber Saloon with be having a free chili feed all day for all of you state riders. Registration (with the low price of $10) starts at 9:03 am on Saturday and ends with Fun Run drawings from 4-7 pm all at the Mooreton Community Hall in Mooreton, ND. DJ and Dance will be from 8:00 pm - Midnight with the Fun Run Grand Prize and the Raffle Drawing for the NEW Polaris Ranger 4x4 at 10:00 pm sharp! Tickets are
going fast so if you’re interested in purchasing tickets for the new Ranger (and 20 - $100 cash prizes) with only 400 tickets being sold, contact Dave Link at 701-640-1198 or Dave Ward at 701-640-2000 or Renee Braun at 701640-8338. You need not be present to win. There will be food available at the hall all day also. Dig your old sleds out and get them ready for the Vintage Show & Run on Saturday. We’ll be running the grueling trail from Mooreton to Mantador and back, a whopping 24 miles! Registration starts in Mooreton at 9:03 am with the judging at 11:30 am and the long haul to the warmer southern Mantador starting at noon. The sleds will be judged at the show on “people’s choice for best original” and “best restored”. We have reserved a block of rooms at the Baymont Inn in Wahpeton (along the 210 bypass) where there is easy snowmobile trail access. Their website is baymontinns.com or call 1-800-337-0550. The rooms are blocked under “North Dakota State Snowmobile Ride” for January 27 through the 29, 2012. The Wahpeton Convention & Visitors Bureau have donated funds to be used for “safe rides” from Mooreton on Saturday night. We’d like to thank
Lake region snowmobile club
n
By Renee Brau
the Wahpeton Convention and Visitors Bureau for their help and the Wahpeton/Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce and Wahpeton Park District for their help with this event. The North Dakota State Snowmobile board meeting will be held Friday night, January 27 at 7 pm at Prantes in Wahpeton. If you get to southeastern North Dakota on Friday and are looking for something else to do, the Fort Aber Saloon will be having PreFun Run festivities so join in on the local fun. Remember to check our Facebook page at “Southern Valley Trail Riders Association” for State Ride updates and further details. Also check out the wonderful work Keri and all have done with our SND website at snowmobilend.com. If you have any other questions, please feel free to use the contacts above or email drb@rrt. net. And remember the Southern Valley Trail Riders are “Stuck on Snow, High On Wintertime”!
By Mark Shipley
Here we go! Lake Region healthy beverages were provided for When a lot of people volunteer a Snowmobile Club is excited about the class by LRSC. For the second little, we can get the job done. Thank our upcoming season. We started year running , the club members also you to those who were able to help off with our youth safety class held donated a youth helmet for one of our with their busy schedules. December 9th at Lake Region State lucky participants of this safety class. We held our officer elections at an College from 5-9pm. Dozens of flyers Our monthly meetings continue with earlier meeting. We would like to were mailed out to the surrounding larger numbers in attendance. We thank Lisa Uhlenkamp for the her time schools in the Lake Region. Thank hold them at different locations. Our as secretary and want to thank Julie you to Matthew Gardner and North most recent meeting was held at the Rader for accepting the position. All Dakota Parks and Recreation for Devils Lake Speedway in Doyon. We other officers agreed to another year. continuing to promote safe riding also conducted our trail association In closing, thanks to the Gasmann and enthusiasm about snowmobiling. meeting later that evening. We were Coulee Cruisers for hosting the state This year the young riders were able invitied and took him up on his offer, convention in Minot—Great Job! to have the snowmobile simulator as Thanks Nolan. We all look forward to next years part of the class. Being able to use this We did some warming house painting convention that will held in Rugby. equipment for class not only gives the recently. A fresh coat always looks Until the next time, “Ride Safe, Ride students a little hands on training but great. Doesn’t it? Thanks to Kevin Smart”. also gets them reved up for snow and K. and all the other members who fun with friends and family. Thanks helped!! As our club numbers increase Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs again Matt and NDPR. Pizza and a Published it is by very rewarding.
Pink Ribbon Rider 3rd Annual ND Snow Run Event January 13th & 14th 2012 Twin Oaks Resort - Bottineau, ND
$125 Registration Fee (limited registrations available) register at www.pinkribbonriders.com/snow_nd.html Snow Run Outline (Tentative) www.pinkribbonriders.com/snow_nd.html Friday Night- Welcome Party, Live, Silent Auctions & Contests 7:30pm - 9:30pm Saturday - Event Day Ride with lunch included, Dinner Banquet, Awards & Recognitions 8:00am - 7:00pm For questions please call: Snowmobile North Dakota 701-328-5377
Thank you to our sponsors
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the out d heck c n ul an e werf ? Th o s p t i m ltra wer he li SE. U ic Po ing t r lectr Apex push E e t t h on fo s i t u s r o spen ’s f i kis – te ab u s ing ld a s h r n o r o c o i w t i w on t str e all-a Pass the g ; d m n e n i r h st; a strok 12 lls “a est t t ca e 20 xhau is 4hott enes UP e .” Th uard g G q X n r E li le a b e go. M hand lusiv r elia Jim r let harp ; exc ner neve s g w ll n r o i ’ o r you pex raz Stee and an A and veter fort rottle t m h a o t h c e w -day of th r, all eze powe sque e n O SE. Apex
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This document contains many of Yamaha’s valuable trademarks. It may also contain trademarks belonging to other companies. Any references to other companies or their products are for identification purposes only, and are not intended to be an endorsement. Rider shown operating a Apex SE. Always wear an approved helmet and eye protection. Observe all state and local laws. Respect the rights of others. Ride within your capabilities. Allow extra time and plenty of distance for maneuvering. Do not perform stunts. ©2011 Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A. All rights reserved.
Visit your nearest Yamaha dealer or Pro Yamaha dealer today. For more on Pro Yamaha dealers, visit yamahasnowmobiles.com
BLAKE’S MARINE & SPORTS 434 HIGHWAY 2 W. DEVILS LAKE, ND 58301 (701) 662-6655
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RED BULL: NEW YEAR. NO LIMITS. CALL IT A COMEBACK Levi LaVallee Returns from Injury to Attempt Record-Breaking Snowmobile Distance Jump. Robbie Maddison Returns After Two Years to Reclaim Motorcycle Distance Jump Record On New Year’s Eve, Live from San Diego on ESPN Santa Monica, Calif. (November 16, 2011) – A motorcycle and a snowmobile walk into a bar…Well, not quite, but not too different, as a motorcycle and a snowmobile will simultaneously fly over water in the latest installment of Red Bull: New Year.
tall Arc De Triomphe at Paris Las Vegas.
the downtown area of San Diego Bay.
This year, LaVallee, a 28-yearold native of Longville, Minn., will jump his snowmobile
LaVallee will attempt to break his own record of 361 feet and Maddison will be aiming for a leap of more than 400 feet to eclipse the current record of 391 feet.
No Limits. This year will bring together two incredible athletes who have found their way back to the annual New Year’s Eve celebration via different paths. The event will air live from San Diego, Calif., on Saturday, December 31 at approximately 11 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. PT on ESPN, ESPNHD and ESPN3, immediately following the Chick-Fil-A Bowl.
On-site viewing will be free to spectators at both parks. Gates will open at 6 p.m. PT.
Levi LaVallee has fully recovered from a crash while training for the same event last year, just hours after shattering the world record with a leap of 361 feet on a snowmobile.
“Jumping long distances is a passion of mine, and I’m excited to come back for New Years Eve and sail over San Diego Harbor,” said Maddison. “400 feet is my goal. It’s not all about getting the world record to me, it’s more about understanding this feat and the commitment ahead to achieving what most would consider an impossible jump.”
Robbie Maddison kick-started the series in 2007 by jumping his motorcycle 322 feet over a football field in Las Vegas and followed it up in 2008 by jumping onto – and off – the 96-foot-
“I am so pumped to be able to come back to Red Bull: New Year. No Limits.,” said LaVallee. “Last year obviously didn’t go the way I was hoping, and I am excited to have another chance at this amazing opportunity.”
alongside Maddison, a 30-yearold Aussie now living in Temecula, Calif., who will pilot his motorcycle as both athletes concurrently jump over 300 feet of water from the North park to the South park at the Embarcadero Marina Park in
A Cause for Snowmobilers: Pink Ribbon Riders By Keri Wanner
“Laugh at life and it will laugh at you!” It’s hard not to get sucked into the everyday grind of negative news. Everything from higher debt ceilings to a friend or family member dealing with medical problems, leaves us only hoping tomorrow will get better. The goal for everyone should be to find a worthy cause that deserves your time and dedication; an organization that will, “laugh with you”!!! The Pink Ribbon Riders © is an organization that spends its energy raising funds to provide direct financial assistance to both men and women diagnosed with breast cancer. The organization’s vision is to create awareness in the motor sports industry. These goals
help to bring people in communities closer as the disease not only affects those diagnosed but also those who love them. “Riding in honor and in memory of those we love”, is the slogan at heart that motivates individuals to focus on the importance while sharing a laugh with others!! The Pink Ribbon Riders is a small volunteer based 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization that raises funds through motor sports events. The funds raised are distributed through an assistance program that is made available to both men and women breast cancer patients. The Patient Assistance program provides $500 gift cards to help with medical, mileage, and cost of living expenses. This program awarded over $250,000 in financial as-
sistance to patients between September 2010 and March 2011. On average, 5-7 patients apply to the program per day creating a need of over $500,000 to be raised for the 2011-2012 season. The majority of the funds raised are through the Snow Run Tour. The Pink Ribbon Riders goal is simple, by everyone coming together through our hobby of snowmobiling, we can make a difference in one breast cancer patient’s life at a time. “One smile, one less worry, and one day at a time!!” To learn more about the Pink Ribbon Riders, the Patient Assistance Program, and the Snow Run Tour, visit www.pinkribbonriders.com. ISMC is a proud supporter of the Pink Ribbon Riders.
Snowmobile Safety: Ride Safe so you can Ride Tomorrow Snowmobiling is in full stride around the world and now is the time for snowmobilers to keep snowmobile safety a top-of-mind awareness issue. Snowmobile safety is nothing new to organized snowmobiling. Snowmobile Administrators, the Manufacturers, snowmobile associations and clubs joined together years ago in developing the Safe Riders! You make snowmobiling safe safety campaign which brought safe snowmobiling practices, training and enforcement to a new level. The Safe Riders! campaign, designed by snowmobilers for snowmobilers is financially supported by the snowmobile manufacturers. The campaign includes safety related materials such as decals, posters, the Safe Riders! DVD, public service announcements, and more. Millions of Safe Riders! Snowmobiling Fact Books, Brochures and Posters have been distributed throughout the world to safety trainers and clubs and associations - free of charge- from the manufacturers’ ISMA office. Thousands of the Safe Riders! You make snowmobiling safe 22-minute safety DVDs have been sent to safety trainers and safety minded snowmobilers worldwide. The DVD is an excellent adjunct tool for snowmobile safety classes. They are available by contacting the ISMA Office through our web site www.snowmobile.org. This year, International Snowmobile Safety Week is January 15-21, 2012. A Safety Week Manual has been designed to give clubs and associations guidance in how to plan and hold safety programs. The Safety Week Manual can be downloaded from the ISMA Web site www.snowmobile.org. The campaign is only as good as the instructors and the support received from the community. Thankfully the instructor base is expanding and the support of government and enforcement officials is exceptional. Snowmobiling accidents and fatalities have continued to decline over the past three years and statistics show there is more than a 50% reduction in accidents and fatalities while snowmobiling over the last 9 years. The Safe Riders! campaign highlights key issues of importance for snowmobile safety. The position statements are concise and easy to understand. They include: 1. Snowmobiling and Alcohol don’t mix - don’t drink and ride 2. When night riding slow down - expect the unexpected 3. Know before you go - always check local ice conditions 4. Cross all roads with care - don’t become road-kill
5. One is the loneliest number - never ride alone 6. Know the risks and be prepared - make every trip a round trip 7. Ride smart ride right - stay in control 8. Smart Riders are Safe Riders - always take snowmobile safety training
Recreational snowmobiling has become the winter recreation lifestyle choice for millions of families worldwide. We encourage all snowmobilers to take a minute and make safety a top-of-mind awareness issue. Familiarize yourself with your snowmobile and the area that you will be riding, dress properly, and follow the above mentioned campaign guidelines. Please remember if you would like any of the Safe Riders! posters, brochures, fact books or the safety DVD please visit www.snowmobile.org and let us know.
Bunke Racing Team Lineup Set For 2011-2012 Moorhead, Minnesota – Bunke Racing has expanded and is preparing for its biggest push ever on the USCC cross-country snowmobile racing circuit. For 2011-2012 the team will field two Pro riders, Gabe Bunke and rookie Pro Bobby Menne, Semi-Pro rider Spencer Kadlec and Pro Women rider Jen Fuller. Bunke is a veteran rider and was Pro 600 points champion on the USCC circuit in 2007. Bunke has also won the Soo I-500 twice and will be look-
ing to continue his record of success this season. Last season, Menne was one of two riders who ruled the SemiPro classes on the USCC circuit. Menne won five races and stood on the podium 10 times on his way to finishing second in points in both Semi-Pro classes. At the final race on the USCC schedule Menne opted to race as a Pro and finished 6th in Pro 600. He will make his 2011-2012 Pro debut at the first race on the USCC schedule December 17, in Grafton, ND. “I’m excited to finally be racing Pro,” Menne said. “I feel like it’s been a long time coming and I’m ready to go up against the big names in the sport.”
Spencer Kadlec
“We wouldn’t put
Bobby in the Pro class if we didn’t think he was ready,” said Bunke. “Bobby’s a good racer and he showed a lot of speed and consistency last year and that is what you need to be successful in cross-country.” Semi-Pro rider Spencer Kadlec will also be joining the Bunke Racing team this year. Kadlec, who hails from Staples, MN, was new to cross-country last season but got stronger and faster as the season wore on, so much so that he was named USCC’s Rookie of the Year. Kadlec started mid-pack but by the end of the season had one Semi-Pro 600 race win and five podium finishes. He placed 5th in Semi-Pro 600 points and 4th in Semi-Pro Improved. “Bunke Racing has been looking to expand for more than a year, we just needed to find the right rider,” said Bunke. “Spencer was at the
top of our list of riders we wanted to approach. He’s got a lot of experience racing dirt bikes, he proved he can race a sled last season and having him on the team is going to be great for all of us.” “I’m looking forward to riding for Bunke Racing,” Kadlec said. “It will be a lot of change for me with a new sled and a new team, but it’s no different than what I did last year, so I expect to pick up where it left off – winning!” Also joining the Bunke Racing lineup is hillclimb and enduro racer Jen Fuller. Hailing from Saginaw, MI, Fuller is a lifelong snowmobiler and a student at Michigan Technological University studying Civil Engineering. Fuller’s race resume includes competing at the Jackson Hole World Championship Hillclimb, a Queen of The Hill title from the Whealkate Winternationals Hillclimb in Houghton, MI, and a handful of podium finishes including a win last year at the Range Endurance Races in South Range, MI.
Jen Fuller
“Bunke Racing is going to help Jen get started in cross-country,” Bunke said. “She has never raced cross-country before but we feel with the experience she has we can help her win.”
2011-2012 Bunke Racing team lineup: Pro Open and Pro 600 Gabe Bunke Bobby Menne Semi-Pro Spencer Kadlec Pro Women Jen Fuller
Crew Shawn Arneson Paul Kahtava Jeff Klein Matt Burkhardt Team Managers Gabe Bunke Bob Menne III
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SNOWMOBILE HALL OF FAME TO eBAY HIGHLY COLLECTIBLE TEAM ARCTIC F1100 SNO PRO 50th Anniversary Edition signed by every Team Arctic Racer benefits SHOF Thief River Falls, Minn. (Oct. 31, 2011) – To raise money that supports the Snowmobile Hall of Fame (SHOF), a one-of-a-kind 2012 Arctic Cat F1100 Sno Pro in 50th Anniversary trim will be auctioned off on eBay beginning November 24th, 2011. But this isn’t like any other 50th Anniversary Arctic Cat. Of all the 50th Anniversary edition F1100 Sno Pros, this was the very first built during production. This is an all-new snowmobile decked out in classic Team Arctic colors and autographed (and documented) by every Team Arctic racer in attendance at the Arctic Cat 50th An-
niversary celebration in Thief River Falls, Minn. There is no other Arctic Cat snowmobile in the world that has so many autographs from Team Arctic racers along with five autographed boards that document the signatures, and the years, the racers were with Team Arctic. Some of the legends whose names are signed on this machine: Roger Skime, Larry Coltom, Jim Dimmerman, Kirk Hibbert, Roger Janssen, Dave Thompson, Brian Sturgeon, Aaron Scheele, Chester Boman, Tucker Hibbert, Brad Pake, Paul and Brian Dick, Brian Nelson, P.J. Wanderscheid and many more.
For more information on the upcoming auction please visit www. snowmobilehalloffame.com
Hot Stuff Joins Forces with Snowmobile Snocross Champion Tucker Hibbert Sioux Falls, SD, November 15, 2011: Orion Food Systems®, the international foodservice provider, which franchises over 1000 Hot Stuff Pizza locations worldwide, announced its official sponsorship of World Snocross Champion and 10time ESPN Winter X Games medalist Tucker Hibbert. “We are extremely excited to have the Hot Stuff Pizza brand associated with such a great champion as Tucker Hibbert,” exclaimed Orion’s CEO Michael Skillingstad, “Tucker’s success is unprecedented on the ISOC National Snocross Tour and ESPN Winter X Games. From a business and marketing point-ofview, our partnership with Hibbert is truly a win-win. Many of our restaurant franchisees and customers are Tucker Hibbert fans, and will be excited to learn that Tucker is a Hot Stuff Pizza lover.” Hibbert agrees and states, “I’ve been a huge Hot Stuff Pizza fan for years. It’s definitely my favorite go-to meal when I’m traveling and an absolute must after a long weekend
Tucker Hibbert
of racing. I can’t wait to share my passion for the brand with race fans and snowmobile enthusiasts everywhere.” Hot Stuff’s sponsorship of Hibbert will entail a national promotion featuring Hot Stuff’s Personal Size Pan Pizza (PSPP) and an opportunity for Hot Stuff customers to win event tickets, snowmobile gear, free Hot Stuff Pizza and other prizes. “Our grand prize is a Snocross fan’s dream,” says
Skillingstad, “Hot Stuff is giving away an all expense paid trip to the ISOC Canterbury National in Shakopee, MN January 2013. The race package includes lodging, a suite at the race, passes to the pit area and an opportunity to meet Tucker and his crew.
United States Cross Country Racing Circuit, and winning multiple titles and races, last year I was ready to do more. I decided to ask an up and coming racer to join my wolf pack, his name was Bobby Menne and my wolf pack will never be the same. Gabe Bunke
If you have ever seen the movie The Hangover, you know what I am referring to when I say that for years, I have been a “one man racing wolf pack�. For 15 years, I was supported by not only Polaris, but countless other sponsors and individuals, and I used that support to dominate the racetrack. After finding the place where I belonged at the
We officially launched Bunke Racing last year when we added Bobby to the team. I saw in Bobby the same drive and passion for snowmobiles that I had at his age, and I knew if I wanted to share my love of the sport, I needed to build a team, and Bobby was going to make an impact, and I wanted him on our team. Bobby did not disappoint. Last season he was one of two riders who ruled the Semi-Pro classes on the USCC circuit. He won five
races and stood on the podium 10 times on his way to finishing second in points in both Semi-Pro classes. In fact, at the last race of the season in Warroad, MN, Bobby made his Pro debut and finished 6th in his first Pro race, I knew he was ready to go Pro for 2011-2012. This year, Bunke Racing will be fielding not only two Pro riders: myself and rookie Pro Bobby Menne, but also a new Semi-Pro rider Spencer Kadlec, and Pro Women rider Jen Fuller. Semi-Pro rider Spencer Kadlec grew up in Staples, MN. He was new to crosscountry last season but got stronger and faster as the season wore on, so much
so, that he was named USCC’s Rookie of the Year. We are very excited to have Spencer join our team. I enjoy working with these younger guys and I believe Spencer will have a great shot at the title in the Semipro class. He will be a guy to watch. Also joining the Bunke Racing lineup is hill climb and enduro racer Jen Fuller. Jen is a lifelong snowmobiler and a student at Michigan Technological University studying Civil Engineering. Jen’s race resume includes competing at the Jackson Hole World Championship Hill climb, a Queen Of The Hill title from the Whealkate Winternationals Hill climb in Houghton, MI, and a handful of podium finishes including a win last year at the Range Endurance Races in South Range, MI. We are very excited to help Jen get her sled set up and cross-country ready. She hasn’t ever raced a cross country race before but, we
feel she has snowmobile experience and with the correct set-up she will be competitive in the women’s class. If you have never seen a USCC cross-country race, I strongly encourage you to come out and see what it’s all about, or if you feel like you are up for it, maybe even try your hand at racing. The USCC offers a class
for every snowmobile and skill level and if you are unsure how to get started give them a call, they are always willing to answer the questions for “first-timers”. Like many trail clubs across the state, the USCC is a family and they would love to see you on the track. As would I, and my “wolf pack”.
e k n u B e b Ga This column is dedicated to all of you who have a burning desire to ride, like I do. There will be stories to share, and I look forward to it. For more information about Gabe Bunke and Bunke Racing go to www.bunkeracing. com or www.usccracing.com
BlueRibbon Coalition invited to testify before congressional subcomittee POCATELLO, ID (November 9, 2011)--The BlueRibbon Coalition has been asked to testify before Congress regarding three of the most important issues affecting access and recreation on lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Rob Bishop (UT), Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands has requested BRC’s Executive Director Greg Mumm to provide testimony on an oversight hearing titled “Forest Service Regulatory Roadblocks to Productive Land Use and Recreation; Proposed Planning Rule, Special-use Permits and Travel Management. The hearing will be held Tuesday, November 15, 2011. “We are pleased Representative Bishop called on BRC to provide testimony on these important issues. BRC has been urging the Forest Service to steer its planning regulations back to the primary goals of efficiency and expediency in the Forest planning process,” Mumm said. Mumm was also encouraged that Rep. Bishop included the recreation permit issue, noting that BRC has recently appealed to legislators to pass a bill that will modify and streamline the Special-use Permit process. “But perhaps most importantly,” Mumm added, “Congressional oversight is
needed regarding the agency’s closure of tens of thousands of roads and trails over the last decade.” BRC has been concerned for some time that recreational access to lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) are threatened by planning regulations that are, in the agency’s own words, costly, complex, and procedurally burdensome. Sadly, the USFS has proposed new planning regulations that only make the situation worse. The new “Proposed Planning Rule” threatens to create a situation that will exacerbate, not resolve, the planning gridlock accelerating through the agency. Recreationists across the country, both motorized and non-motorized, have also been burdened by overly complex and expensive permit requirements. The recreation permit process as currently implemented on Bureau of Land Management and USFS managed lands is overly bureaucratic, expensive for both agencies and the public, and often applied in an unfair and arbitrary manner. Efforts to encourage the agencies to modify and streamline the process have failed, even when those efforts were supported by agency policy. The
current Special-Use Permit process no longer serves the public interest or supports the goals and objectives of land use planning. BRC applauds Representative Bishop for including the Travel Management planning in this hearing. OHV users initially supported the process, however, in some areas it has been used to make landscape level changes to the Forest Plan and close a huge percentage of existing legal trails and even authorized routes. This is contrary to the regulation and has engendered opposition from motorized and non-motorized recreationists, sportsmen, campers and local communities. Recently, the same subcommittee held a field hearing in Northern California that was focused on trail access to federal timber lands.
Across the Country…
? r e d a e l t a e r g a u o y e r A
Great leaders recognize that leadership doesn’t just happen – it takes work. They recognize that we lead with and through people. They lead by reaching people and connecting with them.
knows the leader will be there to support and assist
Great leaders are also great communicators. They make sure to communicate the following three critical items: Expectations - Expectations drive action and action drives results. When people understand the expectations, they strive to meet them. Once they meet those expectations, they feel a great deal of personal satisfaction and pride. Support - Great leaders are great supporters. Everyone
in achieving the expectations. Most people do not want to take on challenges alone, but when you know that your leader is right there, people are willing to charge forward and take on even the toughest of challenges. Appreciation – Today, more than ever before, everyone is expected to do more with
less. It is very important to frequently and properly say “thank you” and let them know they are appreciated and their efforts are appreciated. Showing proper appreciation reinforces their energy and commitment. Great leaders are always communicating. They clearly deliver their messages. They follow up to be sure their messages are understood. Great leaders also realize communication is two-way. They realize listening is just as important as talking. They listen to the questions and concerns of others and address them. Communication can also be non-verbal. It is important to communicate
to others that you are not asking others to do things you would not be willing to do yourself. What and how you communicate to others is critical. Are you a great leader? Do you clearly communicate? Great leaders interact. They do not act alone, but instead use the interaction with others to identify or address issues. They use this interaction to hear the needs of members or other individuals. Great leaders recognize not only the importance of asking questions – but the importance of hearing the answers. Great leaders include new people. They recognize people with leadership qualities. They bring people into the fold with specific interests and skills. They mentor these new people to become the next leader. Great leaders are not afraid to step aside. They realize new blood and new ideas are good for their organization. Great leaders realize they do not always have to lead from the top – but can
lead from anywhere within an organization. Great leaders are great motivators. Are you a great leader? Have you encouraged new people to get involved? Have you prepared them by helping them understand the issue then let them take the lead? Great leaders do not seek recognition, but instead give the recognition to others. Great leaders realize it does not matter who gets the credit, so long as the job gets done. Great leaders are team players. Power does not make great leaders. Great leaders must be honest and ethical. Great leaders make people want to achieve goals. People want to be guided by those they respect and who have a clear sense of direction. Are you a great leader? That is determined by the people you are leading. If you display trust and confidence, others will respect you and will be inspired and follow you.
Organized snowmobiling needs great leaders….. on the trail, at clubs, at the state associations and at the national level. We often get caught up in the issues and challenges at the moment and forget we need to lead, we need to be positive, and we need to continue to move forward. We need to be inspiring to those around us. Keep that in mind at the next meeting you attend or lead. Keep that in mind the next time you are looking for new volunteers or thanking recent volunteers for a job well done. Keep that in mind the next time you volunteer to be a chairman of a committee or event. Snowmobiling has been fortunate through the decades to have many great leaders. Many of those great leaders have mentored others – who have also become great leaders. We must continue to be great leaders and to inspire great leaders-to-be.
AMSOIL Championship Snocross Series Breakdown Ross Martin opens ISOC AMSOIL Championship Snocross Series with win at inaugural AMSOIL DOMINATOR Nov. 25, 2011 - A thrilling start to the 2011-2012 AMSOIL Championship Snocross Series when Polaris’ Ross Martin sent a statement to the rest of the premier Pro Open class by winning the inaugural AMSOIL DOMINATOR. The AMSOIL DOMINATOR is a 16-rider bracket racing contest. It was about as big a hit with the fans at Duluth’s (Minn.) Spirit Mountain as any snowmobile promotion in the 20year history of ISOC AMSOIL Championship Snocross Se-
ries racing at the legendary facility. Martin, the 2nd seed behind Arctic Cat’s Tucker Hibbert, would meet Ski-Doo mounted Robbie Malinoski in the finals after Malinoski upset the favored Hibbert in the semis. Putting the hammer down on the start, Martin pulled the holeshot and led a feverouslycharging Malinoski through the tricky downhill rhythm section and into the second turn.
the ensuing straight - and Malinoski tasted blood - only to wad up on the start line table top jump and hand the win and a check for $10,000 from AMSOIL over to Martin. “This is one of those races where anything could happen,” said Martin, hoisting the over-sized check with a lot of zeros above his head while fireworks blazed in the background. “I’m just glad I made it to the line first.”
Martin bobbled a bit down
Robbie Malinoski takes Round 1 ISOC AMSOIL Championship Snocross Series Duluth
Nov. 26, 2011 - Minnesota born & bred Ski-Doo/AMSOIL racer Robbie Malinoski won in front of the hometown crowd on Saturday at the opener of the 2011-2012 ISOC AMSOIL Championship Snocross Series, pulling the holeshot in the premier C.J.
Ramstad Memorial Cup Pro Open class and leading flagto-flag in the 20th running of the AMSOIL Duluth National at Spirit Mountain.
Boss Racing) was flawless, qualifying first, pulling the holeshot in the main and winning the opening round of the ACSS’ Pro Light class.
And in Pro Light racing, Sweden’s Petter Narsa (Ski-Doo/
Qualifying in the No. 3 spot, Malinoski charged hard out of
the gate, nailing the $500 Stud Boy holeshot and pulling last year’s Pro Open runner up Ross Martin (Polaris/Judnick Motorsports) and 3rd place Pro Open finisher last year, Tim Tremblay (Ski-Doo/ Warnert Racing), to the first turn. Once into some clean air Malinoski ran flawlessly, holding anywhere from a 1.5 to 3 second lead over Martin, with Tremblay roughly 9 seconds back. The trio would finish in the same order, with roughly the same time separation at the checkers (Martin 2nd, Tremblay 3rd). “Last year was a struggle with everything new and all. This year we hit the ground running,” said Malinoski, who placed 4th overall in the ACSS Pro Open last year. “And I’ll tell you what, that thing was just CRUISING over the bumps ... and that’s a nice place to be.”
Round 2 of ISOC AMSOIL Snocross 20th annual AMSOIL Duluth National goes to Ross Martin Nov. 27, 2011 - With a monster start followed by a smooth, calculated and hyper-fast 20 laps, Wisconsin’s Ross Martin (Polaris) raced to victory in the Pro Open class at the second round of the AMSOIL Duluth National as Spirit Mountain - the 2011-’12 season’s first weekend stop on the ISOC AMSOIL Championship Snocross Series tour. Joining Martin on the Pro Open podium was fellow Polaris pilot TJ Gulla (Hentges Racing) in 2nd place and Monster Energy/Arctic Cat’s Tucker Hibbert - the three-time defending Duluth National champ - in 3rd. And in ACSS Pro Lights class racing Wisconsin’s Kody Kammcomplete the Polaris sweep of the top two podium spots in Duluth, topping Saturday winner Petter Narsa (Ski-Doo/Jimmy John’s) in 2nd and 3rd place racer John Stenberg (Ski-Doo/Bauerly Racing). In the Pro Open finals Martin got out of the gate on a rail, pulling the $500 Stud Boy Holeshot and leading the 15 of the world’s top pro snowmobile racers through the first turn and into the early lead. In Martin’s wake a massive wreck in the tricky downhill rhythm section collected Justin Broberg (Ski-Doo) and Brett Bender (Polaris), slowing a number of riders caught in the mess - including Hibbert. As the carnage slowly cleared, Martin led Gulla, Johan Lidman(Arctic Cat) and a fast Tim Tremblay (Ski-Doo) - the day’s No. 2 qualifier - through the opening lap. A mechanical issue on lap two would dog Tremblay, who pulled off the track in disgust. As Martin opened up on the rest of the field - including Gulla and Lidman - Hibbert put his head down and clocked in with a couple of the fastest mid-race laps of the day, including a low 33-second effort on lap eight. When the crossed green and white flags at the finish line signaled the midway point of the race (ten laps to go), Hibbert had passed Lidman and moved into podium position. But his spirited charge at the lead would end up right there as Martin and Gulla rode equally strong, keeping the charging Hibbert at bay through the checkers. “It’s been an awesome weekend,” said Martin, who also won a cool $10K in Friday’s inaugural AMSOIL DOMINATOR®. “We were prepared ... and I couldn’t have done it without this team.”