8872-R1_MSA_October2024_Newsletter

The Maine Snowmobiler

October 2024 • Vol. 56 • No. 2 MSA, PO Box 80 Augusta ME 04332

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An Official Publication of the Maine Snowmobile Association

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VoteYES on Question 4! By James Cote, MSA Lobbyist

to withstand the worst of our natural elements. Lastly, and most importantly, the proposed $30 million in trail investment is in large part because of the good work that you and your clubs do to keep this tradition and significant part of our economy afloat. Leaders in Augusta recognize your commitment to snow mobiling in Maine, and how important your efforts are to local economies around the state. Thank you for the work you do- this would not have been possible without you. As we cruise towards Janu ary, MSA leadership and I are as committed as ever towards continuing our efforts to find more resources and more sup port for our clubs. Stay tuned as there is certain to be lots of activities in the halls of the State House this winter! Please remember to vote YES ON QUESTION 4 this Tuesday, November 5! Encourage your friends, families, neighbors, employees and colleagues to do the same. Passage of Ques tion 4 with significant margins will only help us to create more momentum and more opportu nities in the future. With appreciation for all the work that you do,

Dear MSA Members, If you told me just two years ago that Maine people would be on the cusp of support ing a bond for $30 million into Maine’s trail networks, I might not have believed you. But here we are, just weeks away from Election Day (Tuesday, Novem ber 5), and momentum contin ues to grow behind Question 4, which would do just that.

The directive that MSA lead ership has given to me in my work for you in Augusta has been pretty clear- seek and cre ate opportunities to increase funding for the work that our member clubs do around the state. We have been diligently at work doing just that in the halls of the State House. And over the last two years, a broad, diverse coalition of

It is also so important to extend our appreciation to the Maine Legislature and Gover nor Mills. This bond proposal was one of the most bi-partisan initiatives that I have worked on in my career. Republicans, Democrats and Independent legislators alike supported this investment, and only nine of 186 legislators voted in opposi tion. In other words, 95% of the Maine Legislature supported this investment! The timing of this proposal could not come at a more important time. Given the extent of the destruction to our snowmobile trail network last winter we know that financial support for our clubs is of the utmost importance if we are to maintain and enhance the exceptional quality of the trail network. And many of us know that as storms seem to con tinue to worsen in severity over time that we need to ensure that future construction is able

(over 500) people and organiza tions who support this historic and precedential investment into Maine’s trail networks- both motorized and non-mo torized- have come together to move Question 4 forward. We would not be at this point without the commitment and support from so many of our partner organizations. If passed by the voters, Ques tion 4 will direct $30 million into Maine trails over the next four years. $7.5 million per year over a four year period will be distributed in grants under the oversight of the Bureau of Pub lic Lands for design, construc tion and maintenance of trails. Of that money, 25% will be dedicated to motorized trails specifically, 25% will be ded icated to non-motorized trails specifically, and 50% will be dedicated to mixed-use trails (motorized and non-motorized access).

James Cote MSA Lobbyist

Join the MSA Snowmobile Club of your choice, by scanning the QR Code below and join the fun!

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MSA, PO Box 80, Augusta ME 04332 • 207-622-6983 • Fax: 207-622-7669. mainesnowmobileassociation.com r

PARK & RIDE LOCATIONS

Attention MSA Clubs if you would like to add your local Park & Ride please visit: mainesnowmobileassociation.com and fill out the form under MSA Forms.

REGION Central Central Central Coastal

CLUB Anson-North Anson SC Lexington Hilanders SC Norridge Sportsmen Alliance Moonlite Sno-Skimmers Westbrook Trail Blazes Westbrook Trail Blazes Westbrook Trail Blazes Cornish Sno-Cruisers Quad County SC Inc. Sebasticook Valley SC Ebeemee SC Ebeemee SC East Branch Sno-Rovers LA Sledders Portage Lakers Caribou SC

ADDRESS 18 High St 1453 Long Falls Dam Road 444-328 Martin Stream Road 60 Val Halla Road 429 Bridge St 771 Cumberland St 235 Pride St Rt #5 (Sokokis Trail) 976 Lee Rd (Rt 6) 238 Moosehead Trail US Route 11, ITS 111 Intersection US Route 11 6 Clubhouse Dr Club House 3346 Bennoch Rd Station Rd

TOWN North Anson Lexington Norridgewock Cumberland Westbrook Westbrook Westbrook Cornish Springfield Newport

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Ashley Wing Memorial Park Direct Access to Kennebec Valley Railtrail KVT

Rachels on the green - breakfast- lunch - dinner - large parking lot for the Val Halla Parking lot. 15 minute drive from Portland with direct access to main trail system leading to destinations west and north of Cumberland. Westbrook Little League Parking lot Sunset Ridge Golf Course parking lot Prides Corner Congregational Church Parking lot will be busy Sunday mornings till about noon time. About 3/4 a mile south from Rt 25, Vacant lot and Approx 7 miles North of Limerick on Rt #5 Also, 2 miles down East Shore Rd, Lakeville, ME 04487 Large Parking Lot next to ITS 105 Very Large parking lot with direct ITS 85 trail access. Located right on RT. 7 just 1 mile from I-95. Food/Gas services available in both directions. Great take off spot for day or overnight trips. Contact Sebasticook Valley SC Facebook page for the latest grooming information. Located just north of the road crossing on ITS 111 north (Wildwoods trail) Located just north of the Jo Mary Trail on the left 1.5 miles north of Ebeemee Club House Lots of room for parking. Lunches usually served on weekends. Also the Rail Trail Parking lot off Bennoch Rd in Lagrange as well as Lagrange General Store Parking is alongside Station Rd in downtown Portage. There is room for approximately 12 rigs. As your leaving Caribou on Rt.89 heading east towards Limestone Otter St. will be on your left just before you reach the underpass. Drive all the way straight in and that is where the Park n Ride will be. As you come into Stockholm off 161 turn left onto Main St. and go across the bridge. Right after the bridge on the left you’ll see a sign for a public boat landing. Turn left into there and that in the parkn ride. There is a small maintained trail that will lead you thru the ballpark up to ITS 83 or you can ride the shoulder of Main St. from the park n ride and get on ITS 83 next to Eureka Hall. Immediately off I-95 northbound exit. Located at Brooks Equipment Service . Direct access to ITS 83 Oils, parts, and services available at this site, as well as 2 gas stations located within 900’ of park and ride location (one of which has 24 hr. card service with non-ethanol gas also) Ramp available for truckbed sleds. Please do not block garage overhead door where groomer is parked, or park in front of it. Free parking. This is a private driveway located on trail ITS 81. Call 207.316.9118 for permission to park (limited space) Madawaska This is a dirt road that connects east and west cottage road in Portage. There will be available parking on the west side of Located at the Lake Pennesseewassee Boat Launch/ Parking Area. Parking lot holds 30 plus trailers and direct acess to ITS115 Located east of the Route 2 rest area after passing through the town center of Gilead on the right side of the road. Marked with a sign and trail map in the lot. Located on the right hand side of Route 2 after entering Gilead from the west and passing the rest area or on the left side of the highway if coming in from the Bethel area. Long, thin parking lot for about 4 trucks with trailers. Kiosk and map in parking lot. Take a right at Andover Village (Rt. 120) just down over the hill on right Parking lot is across from the Ham Athletic Fields at 40 Brag Way. 2/10 of a mile from the intersection of Brag Way and Route 302. Easy access to ITS 89. Fireman’s field next to the little Androscoggin River. this road and will be marked with signs. Located right at the I-95 Sherman exit This is the location of our clubhouse. The clubhouse is not open to the general public w/o notice. There is lots of room for park ing, but please not in front of our groomer barn, “The Bullpen.”

Coastal Coastal Coastal Coastal Eastern Eastern

Writers Wanted We’re looking for newspaper articles. Topics of interest.... All things snowmobiling!

Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Northern

Ebeemee Twp Ebeemee Twp Medway Alton Portage Caribou

10 Otter Street

Northern

Stockholm

Northern

10 Otter Street

Caribou SC

Do you have a favorite ride that you’d like to share? Grooming or trail work tips. Product reviews. Stories of your adventures. Club events. A member who goes above & beyond. If possible, please send along pictures for your articles. This paper is created for Snowmobilers and you are the

Island Falls

Northern

1160 Crystal Road

Big Valley Sno Club

St. David (Madawaska) Madawaska

Northern

19 Fournier Road

Madawaska SC

experts - we’d love to have your input! Please submit articles to editor@mesnow.com

Madawaska SC

Northern

195 Dufour Road

Portage Lake SC

Portage Lake

Northern

Station Road

Benedicta Snow Gang Chapman Ridge Runners Snowmobile & ATV Club Washburn Trail Runners SC Norway Trackers SC Sno Wanderers Wild River Riders

Sherman Chapman

Northern Northern

Sherman Citgo 94 Town Hall Rd.

Washburn Norway Kingfield Gilead

Northern Western Western Western Western

48 Station Road 95 Lake Road 171 Main St. Route 2

Western

Know Before You Go!

Wild River Riders

Route 2

Gilead

Snow Valley Sno-Goers

Rt. 120 Just East of Andover Village Brag Way

Western

Andover

Western

Pleasent Mountian SC Formaly Bridgton Easy Riders The Bog Hooters SC

Bridgton

Western

Rte 11

Mechanic Falls Harrison

Always Check Local Ice Conditions

Vacationland Rd

Western

Take Vacationland Rd, Follow Signs.

Harrison Friendly Riders

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Two $1,500.00 Scholarships

will be award this year by The Maine Snowmobile Association to eligible applicants.

☛ To be eligible for these awards the following criteria must be met: • Applicant and/or immediate family must be a member of the Maine Snowmobile Association for two years prior to January 1 st of 2025 • Applicant can be of any age • Immediate family members of MSA member are eligible. Immediate family is defined as legal dependents living in one household. • MSA membership can be family, individual or a business

☛ Scholarship awards are granted to MSA member or family member who is: • A recent high school graduate or holder of a GED • Any student in a one or two-year Associate or Technical School Program at a school in state or out of state • Any student in a four-year Bachelor Degree Program at a school in state or out of state • Pursuing a Master’s Degree

committee needs to raise funds. To do this we are asking clubs to consider making a donation to the scholarship fund. Some clubs in the state have held fundraising events, do a 50/50 raffle at club meet ings, send a donation directly or come up with other ways to raise the money. Whatever your club can do would be greatly appreciated and helpful. The Scholarship committee greatly appreciates your consideration to assist MSA students in reaching their higher education degree.

The Maine Snowmobile Association believes that our future depends on our children, which is why we are doing our part to invest in them. If you feel the same way, please consider helping us to raise money for the fund or making a donation if you prefer? Each year the scholarship committee gives out two scholarships to students who have been MSA mem bers for the previous two years. This year we award ed two $1500 scholarships to students. In order to continue this tradition, the scholarship

All majors and /or courses of study are eligible. Essay and completed application must be received at the MSA office in Augusta by the close of business on April 1, 2025. https://www.mainesnowmobileassociation.com/msa-scholarship-fund/

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SLED EXPO 2024

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The Snowmobile Superstore

JACKETS - BOOTS - BIBS - GLOVES HELMETS - HATS - STUDS SNOWGEAR - FASHION BIG SELECTION TRAILERS - TIRES

NEW & USED SLEDS INCREDIBLE SAVINGS PARTS & ACCESSORIES TOURISM INFORMATION USED SLED CORRAL

DEXPO 2024 E • YOUNG BLDG., W. SPRINGFIELD, MA

NOVEMBER 16 & 17 • BIG E • YOUNG BUILDING • W. SPRINGFIELD, MA SAT. 9-7 • SUN. 9-3 • Go to SLEDMASS.COM or call 413-369-8092 for more info

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From The Executive Board

From the President

volunteers. They will pick up the torch and work to support snowmobiling and your local community businesses year round. Anyone who is involved understands the nature of our business understands it is more than just from when the first snowflake hits the ground. It’s a year-long effort to ensure that the trail system equipment and landowners are all in order. We at the MSA also work hard throughout the calendar year, including the summer months, to make sure we are supporting you in every way we can. If you’re struggling with something please reach out to your local MSA director, Regional VP for help with that matter. It’s very likely you are not going it alone. Other resources for trails & landowner issues are the folks from Department of Conservation snowmobile program, regional trails coordinators. These folks work for Joe’s office and help clubs and landowners resolve issues that come up. And do not forget the Warden Service landowner relation program, the two folks at the state level (Andrew Smart & Kris MacCabe) can help you coordinate and talk through landowner issues, potentially resolving issues for your club. say that we wouldn’t change it for anything! For all of the MSA staff and volunteers this is probably the busiest time of the year. We have a number of things in the works on the legislative side, one of them being the 30 million dollar Trails Bond which is slated to be on the ballot in November and if passed, which is likely, it will bring with it much needed funds back into the hands of our Clubs. Fall in Maine means Fairs, Festivals, Grass Drags and a host of other events, which I am proud to say that the MSA has traveled from one end of the State to the other attending many of these events. Spending time with various Clubs, displaying the Super Raffle sleds and trailers and helping Clubs sell tickets, as well as answering questions and just engaging in good snowmobiling conversation, and at the end of the day is a very rewarding feeling. Some of the other things that we have been working on are Memberships, the MSA office together with the Membership Committee (Eileen & Larry) have started to process memberships as they start to come in, also a big thank you to Liz in the MSA office for facilitating this. Our very own Al Swett at the office in his new role this year as Director of Operations is literally everywhere, wherever needed and is without a doubt the glue that holds the association together. Lori has been diligently working on the Annual Maine Guide, the calendar, the MSA newspaper, the Facebook page not to mention her usual position as Treasurer. Lori and Bob have also been working on updating the Website and snowmobiling in Maine one of the top three destination points in the United States. You should be very proud of this accomplishment. People from all over the USA and Canada ride our trails. It’s a special place from the South to the North from East to West. Our annual snowmobile show is this month, many dealers, vendors and a very cool vin tage snowmobile show this year will be worth coming too. Hope to see you there. Thanks out to Charlies Family of Dealerships in Augusta for once again being our major sponsor. The Raffle is picking up speed as we head into the final stretch. Incredible prizes from some very generous vendors. From the gift certificates to the snowmobiles and trailers this year. It’s always a joy awarding the prizes in December. Thank you to Cove Side Sports in Newport for setting up the mighty Polaris Pro Star S4 Indy Adventure a 4-stroke beauty with a 15X137 Ripsaw II track and full 7S dis play. This beauty has all the options to make a great day on the snow. Our other big sled is a Ski Doo Renegade 600EFI Gen4 from Mountain Side Ski Doo in Wilton. It comes with electric start, reverse, hand and thumb warmers,137 X15X1.35 track. An entry level sled for the children this year is an Arctic Cat

Another sure sign that snowmobile season is coming at us at a rapid pace is the MSA snowmobile show on the horizon. A chance get together and visit, check out sleds, groomers, trailers, gear & accessories and attend workshops on grants put on by the MSA & State snowmobile program. I hope to see you there. Clubs have been hard at work all summer behind the scenes raising funds, securing trail permissions from landowners, doing machine maintenance, filling out grant forms and the list goes on, all just so folks can enjoy a great time on a snowmobile. Please reach out to support them with both your hours of volunteerism and memberships. If you are not quite sure how you may fit it into the club, just be up front & ask. Most clubs need folks to step in and help them, learn the roles and become an active member. If your club has a need, please reach out to me or one of the regional VP’s and we will help you in any way we can. We may not have all the answers but will work with you to help resolve your questions/concerns or needs. We are here to support you and your clubs. Our contact information is included in the paper. This fall the MSA will be working to Some things to keep an eye out for as we make our way through the Winter months... Watch for our director’s meetings each month, which typically fall on the third Tuesday of each month. Clubs should watch for Regional Meetings within their area, these are usually put on by their respective V.P’s and are a great resource for information. Another “can’t miss” are the Trails Workshops, these are put on by the Trails Chairman and are an invaluable source of Trail and Safety information. If there is anyone or any Club that would like to host one of these, please reach out to the MSA office, Regional V.P. or Trails chairman and we will make it happen. Once again, it is time to say goodbye from the oval office. Ok my easy chair, and remember if you have a question, comment, issue or just want to talk snowmobiling, my door is always open, please reach out to me anytime. Till next time, Thank you for reading. Mark ZR 200 from Kramer’s Arctic Cat in Sidney this little beauty has a Yamaha 200 engine with electric start, hand warmers this will look good under your Christmas tree this year! Real big prizes again this year are from our longtime supporters from right here in Central Maine. We have two top trailer manufacturers right here in our state. Nitro based in Pittsfield has donated a Nitro Hybrid 12 foot long trailer to haul your sleds around. This is the blackout version, one beautiful trailer! Sideman door, front extra wide door and rear gate door will make it easy to load and unload. The Alcom folks came up with a new low rider trailer this year and we’re the first to get one! Another awesome trailer made right here in Central Maine this trailer has a large drop down loading door along with a man door on the side. At 7.5X16 it’s a gem to travel with looking down the unit you can see behind you with safety in mind. Thanks you to everyone making the raffle a success and helping out our MSA clubs! On the political side November is fast approaching, with that question 4 is a bond vote to help Maine outdoor recreation. It’s designed to insert $30 million dollars into Maine’s motorized ad non-motorized recre an on-line membership portal. The Steering Committee along with the Executive Board have been working for months on the Maine Snowmobile Show, which by the time of this newspaper should be in the books. As well as we will have already traveled to Epping N.H. for the Grass Drags, and will be heading to Springfield Mass. for their Snowmobile Show in November to promote snowmobiling and tourism in Maine. In July, we launched the MSA Super Raffle, which is a fantastic fundraiser for the Clubs and is always a hit; we will close the raffle and have a live drawing for all of the prizes on December 10th.

Lori Hemmerdinger (207) 890-5455 544 Plains Road • Poland, ME 04274 Treasurer@mesnow.com Treasurer’s Report Respectfully Submitted, Lori Hemmerdinger, Treasurer

Mark Chinnock, President 207-754-9874 544 Plains Road, Poland, ME 04274 napadude66@hotmail.com

Monthly Income Monthly Expense

$ 29,916.18 $ 28,799.02 $ 1,117.16 $ 85,600.00 $165,358.86 $112,408.53

Net Revenue

Short Term CD (9/30/24)

H ello Folks, I hope this month finds everyone well! As we eagerly work our way into the ‘24-’25 season, we are constantly reminded of just how much work and preparation is needed to set ourselves up for a successful season. I think we can all agree that it takes as much if not more work before the snow falls than after. With that being said, I think that I can speak for most of us when I

Checking (9/30/24)

Dedicated Account (9/30/24)

Pay Pal (9/30/24) - Special Events Account (9/30/24) $ 4,987.53 Credit Line (9/30/24) $ - Building Fund (9/30/24) $ 54,374.63 Brian Wass Safety Fund (9/30/24) $ 1,285.78 Scholarship Savings (9/30/24) $ 4,289.00 Scholarship CD (9/30/24) $ 60,126.40 get legislation prepared for the coming legislative session to better fund our clubs. We understand the funding gaps experienced by clubs statewide are hopeful we can fill the gap. There is no one single answer, no silver bullet to resolve the funding all at once. We believe there are short-, medium- & long-term solutions and are committed to make sure we get the right combination. Part of the solution for the medium term will be the November ballot Question #4, Trails Bond. The positive implications of this for the snowmobile & outdoor recreation communities. The $7.5 million/year for four years can be a huge help to shore up critical infrastructure across the trails from all parts of the State. Please get out & vote yes on question #4. If you have questions, get them to us so we can answer them for you. If you have a question, problem, concern, or idea on snowmobiling in Maine, get in touch with me. You can contact me at the phone # or email below. Matt Stedman Stedman.matt@jdirving.com 207-557-1921 ation folks. That’s a lot of money I know but it will give us some much needed funds to help out our clubs and trail system. It will be dis tributed over 4 years. We’re a destination spot for folks all over the world. This bill will help us restore bridges and damaged trails from the recent catastrophes we’ve had in the last cou ple of years. Hope to see you at the show. Be safe out there! AL CLUB MEMBERS Once grooming begins submit your trail reports to: EDITOR@MESNOW.COM Please include your name and club affiliation $

From the Executive VP

Matt Stedman 207-557-1921 (call or text) PO Box 621, Ashland ME 04732 Stedman.matt@jdirving.com

H ello fellow snowmobilers, The signs of the coming winter are surely here now, leaves changing, cool mornings and here in the County the farmers are getting their potato crop out of the fields. Membership packets and grant packages from the state are both out and in the hands of you dedicated

Director of Operations

Alan Swett, 207-872-7282 234 County Rd, Waterville ME 04901 snowtraveler@roadrunner.com W elcome October! Hi Folks we’re getting closer to our sea son. We’ve had many events happening across the State. From chicken cookouts, auctions, club’s holding open houses and raffle sales at many fairs you’re getting the Maine snow mobile word out. We are a silent giant making

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From The Executive Board Secretary’s Report - Betsy Watson Directors Meeting - RT 11 Streakers - Limerick, Maine - September 17, 2024

up. People are getting started. Trail work is getting done. But the most important things that Mark mentioned are getting your grants in order. If you’ve got questions on those, reach out to someone in a neighboring club or your regional director, regional VP or Joe’s office to make sure you’re clear on what it is you are doing. Make sure you get that in because you’re not going to get paid back for any work unless you get in your grant in. Eastern Region Vice President, Eileen Lafland: I have my first Eastern Regional meeting set up for October 9 th at the Glenburn Lakeside Riders. More information coming for those clubs in that area. I’m going to try and do at least four different regional meetings this year. That’s the first one. With 75 clubs, it’s kind of hard to do them all in one spot. Charlie Hannington is working on one up in the Millinocket area. And we’ll also have another one in the Dexter area, so those three for sure. As far as Eastern Region goes, clubs are just getting started. There’s been membership drives, there’s been suppers. They’re on a roll. The November Directors’ Meeting will be at the Eastern Maine Snowmobile Club. And it’s going to be President’s Night. We’re bringing back President’s Night. It’s a great time, a great way to honor some of the presidents in our 285 clubs. And they’re the ones that get things done. Northern Region updates: A bunch of clubs did bridge work over the course of the summer, taking advantage of the dry weather to get some of those projects done. All but a couple of clubs have their packets in hand for membership and are starting to get going on that. Some of the northern clubs are waiting to get out in the fields once Potato Harvest finishes up. Clubs hosting events all across the county. The Caribou area has a pretty big event going on weekend after next, the Dust Bowl. Some new equipment starting to roll in from the grants. I know Prinoth was up here this weekend doing a display in Ashland and he’s starting to move gear out and get it in front of the clubs, get ready for the season. Central Region VP, Ron Nunes: In the Central Region, some of the clubs are out working. We’ve been doing some procurement on parts and pieces and that sort of thing. We’ve been selling Super Raffle tickets out of control right here in our area. We just had a local fair over here where it worked out nice. We had three snowmobile clubs from our local area all working at the same fairgrounds and displaying the Super Raffle sleds. All in all, everybody’s getting revved up. Western Region, Jerry Major: I attended two cookouts this weekend, Andover on Saturday and South Paris on Sunday. We’re going to have the trailer and sled down at a car show to sell Super Raffle tickets, then off to Bridgton the following day. Then to the Fryeburg Fair after that. The raffle sleds will be well-traveled. October 17th, we’re sending out our email blast. We’re going to have a Western Region meeting at the South Paris Fire Station for all the clubs to start working more closely together, coordinate our events, and that’s real work. The clubs are working hard on the trail to get the bridges going. Coastal Region VP, Matt Barron: Hey, everyone. I just want to welcome everybody here. I want to make a motion to accept Joe Walsh as one of my directors. Those of you that don’t know, Joe is always going above and beyond for the club. He’s always been my right-hand man. So, welcome, Joe. We’ll have fun. We’ve got some packets to deliver this weekend. I’m a little behind on packets. I do have some more left when I get out there, but I’ve been in the hospital. We were able this year to raise $2,500 from our annual T-bone BBQ cook-off, to

give to the MSA for the scholarship program. Everybody from the scholarship committee come on up here, Al’s going to take a picture. On behalf of the MSA Scholarship Committee, it gives me great pleasure to present this plaque to the Robert T. Lippincott Jr. family, Rt. 11 Streakers, on behalf of the generous and successful support and donation to the MSA Scholarship Fund, dated September 17, 2024. So thank you very much, Matt, Cheryl, Joel, the family. We voted on the way down the majority rule. We’d like to name the scholarship award this year in the name of T-Bone for the scholarship this year. So thank you again very much. Director of Operations, Al Swett: Super Raffle is doing really well. We ordered a bunch more tickets because we’re selling out fast and we’re giving out a bunch to the clubs. Along with the tickets, we have some posters also. So if you need any posters, let us know, we can make that happen. The show is coming along really well. Talked to a bunch of the vendors, which are coming to the show. They are all set, Talked to a bunch of other vendors, and waiting for them to get back to me. The vintage show is going to be bigger than ever. We just outgrew the space in the Civic Center. So we’re looking to fit at least 100 sleds or more in the back west wing. Chris Ring with the St. Albans Club is in controls of that. We still get calls through the office, and I just send them up along to him. If you’d like to be a volunteer at the show, we still have some openings. Give us a call, email us, call the office and we can make that happen. We’ve got all of our prizes now. We got the Alcom Trailer on Friday. Nitro Trailers is located In Pittsfield, Maine. In 10 years, they’ve quadrupled their business; He started out with a two-bay garage. Now he’s one of the largest manufacturers of utility snowmobile trailers, in at least the Northeast. Then you have Alcom Snow Pro, which is manufactured over in Pittsfield. They’ve just snowballed like a blizzard on a February day. It’s just incredible what they’ve done. Like Jerry said, those sleds are going all over the place. They’ve been in Lexington, they’ve been at Dover Foxtrot, Ashland, they’ve been, put some miles on them trailers... Safety Chair, Al Swett: So safety stuff, just be aware of what you’re doing when you go out there and groom your trails and build your bridges, wear the right proper gear. Pay attention, be cautious, look out for the other guy, make sure the other guy is right where it should be and don’t be throwing those branches down on him and cutting trees and so on and so forth. Wear the right stuff. Hopefully we get some snow this year so we can go out and do some on-trail safety checks. Those really worked well in the last few years where we did have a good amount of snow. We did a few of them. Safety classes in schools like, Millinocket, Midway, and Greenville. Funding committee, Matt Stedman: As Mark alluded to earlier, we’re going to go after funding in a couple of different fashions this season. The first one I’ll speak to is the Trails Bond. So this year in November, question four on your ballot will be, do you support the Trails Bond? And it’s $30 million over four years. So seven and a half million dollars of grant money available per year if it passes. 50% of that funding would be for multi-use trails. 25% of that funding would be for motorized only trails and 25% would be for non motorized only trails. The way that it’s written and structured as of now, the grant would be a 90% grant, 10% match. So a little different like your municipal grants that we do for trail work are a 70-30. This one is set up as a 90-10. So a lot less cash upfront for clubs to be able to put up. So as Mark said, James Cody, our lobbyist is on the steering committee for the campaign.

So he’s helping shape and fashion how they’re going to market that to people and helping with fundraising. Our association, as we talked about last month, has donated $5,000 towards that campaign to make sure we get the message out. We think this can be a big step in short-term funding for the next four years, hopefully to get some infrastructure replaced and improved and some trouble areas taken care of for clubs. So we’re looking forward to getting out, talking to people about that, getting them excited to get out in November and vote on that bond issue. The next step we’re taking is for some longer term funding to close the gap we will be meeting with Joe Higgins from the Snowmobile Program and James, our lobbyist. Joe, James, Mark, and myself set up a meeting for two weeks from now to nail out some details on what could be a great funding source that was brought to our attention. They passed a bill last session taking 40% of the sales tax from automobiles and putting it directly into the Department of Transportation’s budget. Brent brought that up to us last fall, followed that closely. So we’re working to figure out how much sales tax is generated from the snowmobile sales on an annual basis to try to mimic that bill and see what that can do to help close that funding gap. On average, the last 10 years between equipment purchases and trail grants, we’re missing about $3 million of funding from what Joe’s office pays out to what all of us clubs report. So we’re going to go after many different facets to try to close that gap over time. We need to have solutions that come in now, and we need to have solution for the short term like trails bond, and we need to have something that can be in place and set in statute over time that they can’t take away from us. That’s where we’re at. I’m happy to answer any questions either now or shoot me an email, call me, I’m more than happy to talk to anybody about it. Anybody have any immediate questions for Matt? Okay, thank you, Matt. Membership Chair, Eileen Lafland: As far as membership goes, the packets are out there. Let’s get those memberships coming back into the office so that my fingers can start typing in membership’s information. I’m getting a little bored at home, so get them sent back in as quickly as you can. And again, thanks to Bob and Lori for the online piece of it. Scholarship Co-Chair, Barry Ryan: The scholarship fund is doing pretty good. We have $1,706.12 in the savings, and its $60,060.05 in the CD account. On your tables, there’s a two-pager updating the scholarship activities as far as what we’re looking for to further the goals on that. So when you go to your clubs, please reach out to them and see if they have anybody that’s willing to further their education, whether it’s going to college or a post-graduate or adult ed, something like that. We can use the help of the scholarship fund. So we appreciate all that’s going on today, especially the Barron family and the Libby family and Ruth Livingstreet, because you guys did a great job at the cook off down here. Trails Committee Chair, Brent Spaulding: So the big order of the day is the snowmobile map. I started the process early this year, but we had some struggles with our data for the overlay, but Carl Morrison over at SW Cole did a fantastic job. We worked through a lot of smaller issues, and Carl sent that to the printer this morning and also Lori had revamped the entire front section from last year in a different format. Lori got that right over to the printer. And at 4:45 this afternoon, I got a proof of the map. I responded with a green light. So the map is underway. I asked for October 2 nd as the ideal date to have them done by that would

D IRECTORS MEETING @ RT 11 STREAKERS September 17, 2024 Mark Chinnock, Barry Ryan, Brad B., Larry Lafland, Betsy Watson, Jerry Major, Eileen Lafland, Matt Baron, Al Swett, Gail Ryan, Lori Hemmerdinger, Bob Flagg. SECREARY’S REPORT, Accepted and put on file in the office. Treasurer’s Report, Read, accepted, and put on file. President’s Comments – Mark: Epping Grass drags is October 11, 12, & 13, 2024. MSA will have a booth. We’ll be down there representing MSA and Maine snowmobiling in general. We get asked a lot of questions, regarding different hot spots in the state, and questions on the county. The Mass Expo will be on November 16 and 17. Okay, so some one of the biggest things we been working on is the funding issue. Matt Stedman will talk a little bit about that. We put together a funding committee with the MSA to try to come up with ideas to bring more money back to the clubs. That is the ultimate goal. The second part of that is James Cody, who is our lobbyist. He is spearheading the 30 million dollar trails bond, which could come up in the election in November when we all vote yes on four. Matt can talk a little bit about that. And the last thing that I’ve got is deadlines. I’m sure everybody has their membership packet from the MSA as well as Joe Higgins’ office. So, the ones you need to worry about right now are the Capital Equipment Grant and the Club Grooming Grant, which are both due by December 1 st . So they need to be into Joe Higgins’s office, at the Department of IF & W, Snowmobile Division, by December 1st. Along with that, in both packets, one from the MSA and one from Department of ACM, are two separate officer update forms. The one for Joe is obviously really important because if you don’t fill that out, send that back, you don’t get any money. The one for the MSA is equally as important because it ties back into the online membership, which Lori and Bob Flagg have been working diligently on to come up with a portal that works for everybody. One of the questions on that officer update form is how much do you charge? Every club is different, right? So we all charge different prices. Unless we know what you charge for a club membership, we can’t charge the club’s appropriate membership fee. So it’s really important that you turn in both of those officer update forms. To find the officer update form for the MSA, go to the website and go to MSA forms/officer update forms. Executive Vice President, Matt Steadman: Sounds like you guys got a great turnout down there and that the crews put on a good meal for you. So glad everybody could come out tonight. Like Mark said, everything’s winding Betsy Watson, Secretary 207-205-1559 412 Roberts Ridge Rd, East Waterboro, ME 04030 watson.betsy29@gmail.com

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Secretary’s Report - Betsy Watson (Cont.) Directors Meeting - RT 11 Streakers - Limerick, Maine - September 17, 2024

get maps for October 3 rd to go to that show. Darlene said that they would do their best. So that is two weeks from tomorrow. Mapping dinners, we’re going to start scheduling those up for this fall for the trails committee to go through and map out our routes and just have a get together and a face to-face and a little thank you to the volunteers. Also a reminder, I will be doing a signage workshop at the snowmobile show on the 19 th , around 10 o’clock. And also a reminder, everybody that would like a trail workshop in their area, I’m wide open for dates. So if you can come up with a date and run it by me, if you’d like to have a workshop in your area, let me know. Any questions? All you, Mark. Hall of Fame, Gail Ryan: I’m still looking for people who’d like to be on it with me. I have one person, her name is Charlene McFarland, and so I need four more people. We’ll get nominations from the different clubs, hopefully a bunch that we have to judge. We’ll pick the people who should be in the Hall of Fame. We’ll get together or Zoom or something and I’m looking for somebody from every area. I don’t think there’ll be a whole lot of meetings. I don’t know yet, we’ll have to wait and see. Hospitality Chair, Gail Ryan: I have sent a few cards out; can I tell you who they’re for? Well, I sent one to Mark’s dad. I think I sent one to Mark, but I’m not sure. I can’t remember. Al: I forgot to mention your raffle permits.

H ello from Brewer, Fall is upon us and many clubs have already been out for weeks prepping for the upcoming season. From bush hogging to bridges to new groomer barns, there has been much activity. The Facebook posts have been great to see and I extend much appreciation to all the efforts. There was one post in par ticular that said” If you are waiting for snow to register your sled, did all the clubs wait for snow before they started working on trails?” The answer is a resounding NO! Great work out there! Trail committee meetings are ongoing. Our next meeting will be at approximately 11:30 AM on Saturday of the Snowmobile Show. This will follow the Trail workshop that starts at 9:30 with a signage presentation followed by Joe Higgin’s instruction and Q&A. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions and concerns and remember I am always will ing to come to your club for a signage work shop or Q&A session. All for now… Brent We’ll be posting more safety information in the next few months to get us all ready for winter. Hope to see you at the show. Be safe out there! AL You guys that sell raffle tickets, make sure you have that permit. Hang it on your overhead canopy when you are out selling tickets or put it on the table you’re selling them at. The Gaming Commission has been out and they’re checking to make sure you have these permits. Also, there is some more safety stuff over there in that table. You guys can help yourself with posters and what have you. Polaris, Chris Gamache: I’m the trails manager for Polaris, specifically on their Ride Command program. Ride Command’s a free phone app website. My job is to make sure those maps are as correct as possible. I am the former trails chief in the state of New Hampshire. I live just south of Lake Winnipesaukee. I worked for the trails bureau for 20 years, was chief for 15. So I was doing the snowmobile grants, making the rules and everything else from the state of New Hampshire. And I’ve been with Polaris for about 40 years. I was looking on the app, trails in Standish, down in Sanford, up in Freiburg, they’re all on here, but nothing in this area is. It’s free marketing basically for your club, for your business sponsors. I’m going to add the clubhouse tomorrow to our map. I’ve got a picture of your map and I’ll start adding those. So clubs can have free accounts and you guys can add all your business sponsors. You can charge them to be on the app and you keep all the money or you can put them on for free. So you don’t have to do anything, sturdy footwear. Watch out for obstacles on the trail, broken branches, downed trees, holes in the dirt. Bring water to drink and snacks. Dress for ticks and bring some good tick spray with you. There are many ways to stay safe use common sense to start with. While trimming trees and brush make sure, you know where your buddy is. Don’t be dropping a tree branch down on him. Commu nication is the key. Stay alert when operating anything gas or electric powered. Be aware of your surroundings. If you feel like you need a break take one relax and enjoy the Maine woods. October is a good time to check over your snowmobiles and trailer. Have a professional do it or someone you can trust to do it right. How about your clothing - is it up to keeping you warm and dry? It’s very uncomfortable in the Maine woods when you’re cold and have a long ride back to your camp, house or truck and trailer.

but I’ll leave the brochure inside with the two bartenders because they’re probably the most tech savvy in the group out here. Old Business: By the time we get to old business we’ve pretty much covered everything. Super Raffle update. You’ve got a show update for now. We talked about the Epping grass drags and the dates. And we talked about the trails bond. So, make sure you vote in November and vote yes on four. That’s going to bring more money back into the club directly. New Business: Eileen’s got new business. We had asked clubs to send in a Formstack for the selling of the Super Raffle tickets at the show. I have the names of those clubs that submitted a Formstack Chris Gamache, come on back up here, please. At the last meeting, we talked about having a shift on Friday, three shifts on Saturday and a shift on Sunday. We’re going to draw them in that order. Chris is going to draw them because he is the most impartial person I can think of right now. So, just draw out one, please, and tell me the name of the club. Rome Ruff Riders. Okay, Rome Ruff Riders will have the Friday night shift. Quad County Snowmobile Club. Quad County Snowmobile Club will have 9 to 12.30 Saturday morning. East Branch Snow Rovers will have 12.30 to 4. Glenburn Lakeside Riders. Glenburn has from 4 to 8 Saturday night. And the Alna Snowmobile Club will have all day Sunday. So, those will be the clubs that will sell at the Super Raffles sales at the show. If for

scholarship program. Currently we award two-$1,500 scholar ships to any family member that is going on to post high school education. There are a few rules related to membership and the appli cation but basically any program after high school- a 1, 2 or 4 qualifies in most cases. The committee has raised the scholarship amount twice in the past few years as our goal is to try and make the award a meaningful con tribution to help support our members with the ever increasing cost of education. In the past we have only used the interest from our capital account and to do that we have had to look for others ways to fund the awards. Many clubs have donated in the past and this year is no different, when it was looking like we might have to be really creative in our financing the New Limerick club came up in a huge way. Be sure to look in this edition for more on that story but their event in late August will almost pay for our scholarships this year. We are so thankful for their support and always looking for more ways to get others involved. The committee is committed to doing whatever it takes to continue to raise funds. The more we have, the more we can give out. If you or your club is interested, please reach out to any committee member if you need any kind of information or support. Thanks for all you do and hope to see you at the Show. Pot of Gold: If your club name is drawn and you are here representing your club, you go back to your club with $400 bucks. The winning club is Poland Snow Travelers. Nobody here from the Poland Snow Travelers. All right, so next month’s director meeting is Tuesday, October 15 th . It will be at the VFW Post in Madison, Maine. I want to thank the Route 11 Streakers. Once again, they put on a great venue. And I will look for a motion to adjourn. There’s a motion, second. All in favor. Thank you. See you guys later. some reason one of those clubs cannot cover the shift that they have, these names are going back with Al and the office will pull out one that will be an alternate. Announcements or events: Swap meet at Northern Timber Cruisers in Millinocket this weekend, Saturday at 8 o’clock this Sunday. The Ripley Snowmobile Club will be having an annual auction at the town office there in Ripley. That starts at one o’clock. Eastern Maine Snowmobile Club’s open house and membership drive this Sunday afternoon. If anybody wants to come. I know Glenburn is doing a membership drive Saturday night. 50/50: The 50-50 is $73 to the winner. Winning ticket is 101-740. Mark Whitman donated the winnings back to the scholarship fund. Thank you.

Scholarship Committee

Safety Committee

Harvey Chesley, 207-314-0637 25 Hillcrest Dr, Clinton ME 04927 harv.chesley@gmail.com

Alan Swett 207-872-7282 234 County Rd, Waterville ME 04901 snowtraveler@roadrunner.com S nowmobile safety begins now! While your trail makers are out there making our trails better and better, BE SAFE. Wear the proper safety gear. Earplugs, safety glasses and good

W elcome back fellow snowmobilers, with fall officially here many of you are probably starting to get geared up for win ter. Hopefully one of those activities will be to attend the MSA Show in Augusta October 18-20. While you are there be sure to stop the MSA scholarship booth and talk with our volunteers. We also enjoy the opportunity to tell folks what we have been up to and we are likely to try and sell you a ticket or two. The Show is the kick off to our season and every thing we raise will help support our cause. By raising as much money as possible it allows us to give away as much as possible through our

Trails Committee Chair Report

MSA CLUBS: TO ORDER NEEDED ITS & JCT SIGNS Contact Mike Grass Sr., MSA Trails Committee 252 Condon Rd • Plymouth, ME 04969 207-368-4914 home • 207-745-2745 cell Grasslands252@gmail.com TO ORDER CLUBTRAIL SIGNAGE Candice Pinkham, DACF/Snowmobile Program 207-287-4957 Office • 207-878-8111 Fax Candice.M.Pinkham@maine.gov

Brent Spaulding, MSA Trails Chairman 207-944-7762 41 Madison Ave Brewer ME 04412 msatrailchair@gmail.com

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Coastal Region VP

W ell it’s good to hear all the speculation of a good snow year, bee’s nest way up high, etc. We will keep our fingers crossed that it will be a great year for riding again. After talking with many clubs and attending numerous meetings, definitely a lot of WORK is going on, especially rebuilding bridges, filling in washouts and brushing. Be sure to keep landowners involved, most of them will and want to help in various ways. Be sure to mark your calendars for the WESTERN REGION MEETING, October 17 th at the South Paris fire station, 137 Western Ave, at 7pm, light refreshments will be served. We all need to work together to not have conflicting event dates, and coordinating our trail work, let’s work smarter, not harder, maintaining the motto “UNITED WE TRAIL DIVIDED WE FAIL”. That being said, call me if I can help. SEE YOU OCT.17 TH . Jerry Major Once again, I can’t stress enough if anybody needs anything please reach out to me. Nothing is impossible and never give up! Think, Snow. Everyone and happy fall. Matthew Baron as well. Thanks to Glenburn for hosting this event. There will be three more regional meet ings held this fall and possibly in to early Jan uary. Right now, I am looking at one in Dexter, Medway and Holden so watch your mailboxes clubs and club presidents for an invite. Also, even though it is a few months away- Mark your calendars for the Eastern Region meeting and showcase ride. It will be Feb. 15 th and at this point in time we hope to begin and end at the East Branch Sno-Rovers in Med way. As the date gets closer more details will be provided. Clubs- please submit your events to the MSA so they can be added to the MSA website calendar. Also, please go to the website and fill out the Officer Update form so we have the correct information for your club. MSA is try ing very hard to get all current information for all clubs so we can get the correct information out to people who ask. On a sad note- In September the Eastern region lost a dedicated snowmobiler who devoted much of his time to the sport. Rick Levasseur from the Jo- Mary Riders passed away. His passion was to make the trails in that region some of the best to ride and be signed so people could find their way, which they were. Rest in Peace Rick, and our sympa thy to Debbie and the rest of his family. I hope to see many of you at the MSA Snowmobile Show this month. Stop by the MSA booth Friday or Saturday and say “Hi” to me. I enjoy meeting everyone. I also know there will be some new clothing options at the show and the calendars will be there too so come check it out and bring your wallet! That’s all for this month. Until November. Eileen scholarship committee for the beautiful plaque they presented to my family. I’m receiving emails from many coastal clubs, asking me to attend their fundraisers that are starting to happen. We must all keep our fingers crossed and keep a positive attitude as we come into winter. I’ve enjoyed seeing clubs pick up their new equipment from the recent equipment grant and getting them equipped in order to groom trails. October is going to be busy with the snowmobile show and many other activities going on around the state. I’ve tried to reach out and meet as many clubs as I possibly can on top of dealing with my health issues. I can promise you all I will get to you just as soon as I can and I’m very excited about that. I also would like to tell everybody in my coastal region to make sure you go out and vote, vote for the trail referendum as this is going to be a big deal. This is going to directly impact the clubs on an individual basis in such a positive way if passed.

From The Membership Corner

doing what they can to convince new people to join! It really is a great time of the year! Memberships are coming into the office and being entered a good pace. It will pick up more as the month goes on and into the next few months. All memberships collected at the MSA show will also be entered and clubs will be notified by mail if someone joined their club at the show. As in past years, please make the member feel welcome as they did pick your club out of 280 plus clubs in the state! Let them know you appreciate it by sending them an email or a letter and your events planned schedule as well as inviting them to a meeting! Because it the beginning of a new season there will be no regional totals in this report, but they will be included in the November report. That means all regions have another month to wait and see who has bragging rights for a month! It’s always a friendly competition between the regions to see who is getting their memberships in. It’s up to the clubs to submit them to MSA so we can put them in the sys tem. Please send them as you receive them! If anyone or club needs anything or has questions please email membership@mes now.com or contact the MSA office. Keep those memberships rolling! you all ask the question,’’ What is the status of your local club? and Who maintains the local trails?’’ There are many ways to help keep local clubs operational and financially strong. Recently, the Palmyra Snowmobile Club experienced a dilemma of whether to close or reorganize. They chose reorganization, so I strongly urge anyone in that area who has even a little time to help! Please do so and remember you do not need to ride to participate. You can help in many ways from behind the scenes. Snowmobile clubs are more than just snowmobile clubs. They serve as the core of the community. So old or young, join and participate in your local club, meet new people, or rekindle old friendships. Even out of state members who own or rent property can help. Do not always assume someone else will do it. Leaves are beginning to change, so get HAPPY and get READY, because winter is on its way! I look forward to seeing you all on Tuesday, October 15 th at the Central Region meeting in Madison, ME at the VFW Post #7865, 58 Preble Avenue. Thanks for all you do, Ron Nunes your support if you’re not able to volunteer any of your time during the year. Most clubs right now are selling MSA Super Raffle tickets as a fundraiser. Purchasing some of these tickets is a great way to show support to a club. Landowner appreciation dinner’s continue to be held throughout the area, clubs are busy doing trail and bridge repairs and work and new groomer garages that have been built over the summer are getting their final touches. As we sit idle between the summer and winter seasons now is the best time to get our machines out, clean the dust off them and get your sleds into your local power sports shop before the riding season rush begins. If you’re looking to scratch that sledding itch before the riding season begins don’t forget about the upcoming MSA Maine Snowmobile Show at the Augusta Civic Center October 18th thru the 20 th . While there check out the best & biggest MSA Vintage Sled Show to ever be held. In closing keep praying to Mother Nature and the snow gods that they bring us some cold weather to freeze up the ground first and plentiful snow to have a great riding season this year. I’m hoping the next time I write my article that there will be snow in the forecast or at least in the extended forecast and we can all feel like little kids all over again waiting for it to fall. Remember to always ride right, ride smart, and ride sober!!!! Until next time Nick Morrill

Matthew Baron, 207-608-3737 92 Emery Corner Rd, Limerick, ME 04048 msacoastalregion@gmail.com B oy fall is in the air. I’m noticing a lot of clubs coming together repairing damage from last year’s storm and replacing bridges. Very exciting to see everybody getting together to make things happen. It’s been a very busy month we had our directors meeting held at the T-bone Trail in September and had a great turnout. I was so happy to see everybody and want to say thank you to the

Eileen Lafland, 207-843-7813 PO Box 733, Holden ME 04429 L.andE.lafland525476@gmail.com

O ctober means one thing to the MSA mem bership data entry team- It’s time to go to work! Clubs have received their membership packets, sent out renewal information, have it returning and are sending it to the MSA office so the information can be entered! That means clubs are working hard to renew members and

Central Region VP

Western Region VP

Ron Nunes, 401-527-5370 260 Last Round Up Rd, Lexington Twp, ME 04961 Thelastroundup2018@gmail.com H ello all. We are heading into fall, which means a lot of work needs to begin, preparing grooming equipment, doing trail maintenance, bridge maintenance & sign maintenance, and much more. To all the members of the Central Region, I applaud you and thank you for all you do! For all the other readers and riders, I suggest

Jerry Major, Cell: 207-838-0892 137 Morrill Rd, Norway ME 04268 mrfun101jem@gmail.com

Eastern Region VP

Northern Region VP

Eileen Lafland, 207-843-7813 PO Box 733, Holden ME 04429 L.andE.lafland525476@gmail.com H ello everyone! Welcome to the count down to cold weather and lots of snow (we hope!) Eastern region clubs have been hard at work inspecting and opening trails, talking to landowners, and getting their per mission, and making sure all equipment is ready to go. They have also been holding club meetings, sending out membership renewals and finalizing their calendars for this season. Lots of preseason work is being done by the dedicated volunteers at all clubs. If you hav en’t heard from your club or clubs yet, reach out to them and offer to help, even for a few hours. It makes a big difference. The eastern regional directors have been at work reaching out to the clubs as well and regional meetings are in process. The first one was Oct. 9 th at the Glenburn Lakeside Riders SC in Glenburn. Sixteen clubs as well as MSA personnel, Joe Higgins and others were invited

Nick Morrill 207-554-0074 406 Main Street, Stockholm ME 04783 landscaper9791@gmail.com H ello once again from the Crown of Maine. As I sit and write this The Big Woods Grass Drags along with the Dust Bowl have taken place. The trees are in full peak with fall color, school soccer and football seasons are in full swing and farmers are starting to finish harvesting their crops, which can only mean one thing, the 2024/25 riding season is only a few weeks away. Clubs here in The County have begun meeting and sending out membership renewals for the new season so be on the lookout for those applications coming in the mail if they haven’t already. Joining your local club or area clubs around you is the best way to show

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