9199-R2_MSA_October2025_Newsletter

r The SnMowaimneobiler An Official Publication of the Maine Snowmobile Association r

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Vol. 57 • No. 2 October 2025 MSA, PO Box 80 Augusta ME 04332 www.mainesnowmobileassociation.com

☛ United we trail, divided we fail!

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Discovering the Eastern Region: Your Next Maine Snowmobile Adventure

By Eileen Lafland

O f the five regions in the state the Eastern Region consists of seventy-five clubs and covers all of Piscataquis, Penobscot, Washington, and Han cock counties. This means there are clubs from Shin Pond/ Matagamon area over to Millinocket area and Greenville/Rockwood down past Dexter and Dover to Newport north to Bangor area and then Downeast past Bucksport and Ellsworth to the Canadian border in Calais and back up past Princeton and Grand Lake Stream to Springfield in this region. As you can see it covers a large por tion of the state and has many snowmobile desti nation spots when the conditions are right. Not all the areas in this region receive snowfall amounts like the Northern and Western regions do, but the Eastern Region clubs are always ready for snow and groom the trails as soon as they are able. Most anyone who snowmobiles in Maine will recognize and tell you about their rides in the Med way, Millinocket, Jo-Mary, Ebeemee areas or Shin Pond /Matagamon, or the Greenville /Rockwood areas because these are the areas that usually receive the most snow and have a longer riding season. This means the clubs in those areas are working constantly to keep their trails in riding conditions. The scenery in these areas is mostly snow-covered mountains and lakes, which make for spectacular riding and photo opportunities.

If you enjoy miles of trials in the wilderness with chances to see wildlife along the way, then you have probably been on these trails. Have you considered a different area of the East ern Region with a diverse type of riding? If so, why not look at a new area? Hop off I-95 in Newport and head towards Dexter. Not far out of Newport there is a park and ride that has direct access to the ITS rail /trail. You can ride from Newport to Dover then continue to Greenville and Rockwood or go east towards Brownville and continue to Jo-Mary and any other destination you choose. Along the way you will also encounter Maine wildlife and you pass through many towns. Off the ITS trail are numerous club trails that will let you explore other areas. The club trails may be narrower as they wind through the woods but you will find some great photo opportunities. There are many places to stop for gas and food in either direction, so no worries there. Again, the clubs in these areas are out keeping trails maintained and signed so you can access services. Another area to explore that is less traveled is east of the Penobscot River. The snowmobile club in Holden has a large parking area and is easy to access. With the right snow conditions, you can unload there and go south to Bucksport or, pick up cub trails through Orrington that connect to Ded Continues on Page 2

ham. Want a longer ride that might include an overnight stay? Head north from the clubhouse and catch ITS 84 East which goes all the way to the Canadian border in Calais. You can also pick up ITS 81 north go to Burlington, Lincoln, Mattawamkeag and around to Springfield. This ride is a long one and you might want to plan it as an overnight trip. Haven’t found the type of ride you are looking for in the Eastern Region yet? How about a ride near the Atlantic Ocean bays of Downeast? Start your trip in Ellsworth at Washington Junction and travel on the Downeast Scenic Trail. This is a multiuse trail that uses an old railroad line and takes you east to Pembroke at Ayers Junction. When you get into Machias, you have the tidal water on one side. Look for the eagles flying along with you. You can take a connector trail in East Machias and head north to Princeton or Grand Lake Stream. Again, these are longer rides and you may want to plan an overnight. This area of the region does not have as many opportunities for gas so make sure you plan ahead. Want some great local riding for day trips? Look in the Bangor/ Glenburn/Hampden/ Corinth area. You can travel club trails in all these areas and see parts of the state you haven’t seen before. The clubs in these areas can assist you in planning a nice lei surely ride through the countryside as well as inform you of points of interest and photo opportunities. Get in touch with the clubs as many of them plan weekend events that you can attend and help support them in the process. As you can see the Eastern Region offers many exciting adven tures and places to ride. While this region is very dependent on snow conditions, you would be surprised to see what the clubs can do with very little snow at times. Whether you are looking to see majestic mountains, beautiful lakes, snow covered woods, or the Atlantic Ocean bays the Eastern Region has it all and is wait ing for you to come ride!

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Trail Blazer Remembered Bob Sambito’s Legacy on Maine’s Snowmobile Community

T he crisp air of Maine’s winter trails will feel a little emptier this sea son with the passing of Robert “Bob” Sambito in the spring of 2025. Bob was more than just a snowmobiler; he was a dedicated force behind the scenes, a generous spirit whose contributions significantly shaped the landscape of snowmobiling in our state, particu larly for the RipleyTrail Riders and the Wasakeag Snowmobile Club. For nearly 40 years, Bob poured his heart and soul into the snowmobile community. A retired Navy veteran, he found a new calling in service to

his fellow riders. His hands-on dedi cation was instrumental in building the Ripley Trail Riders’ new groomer barn, a vital piece of infrastructure that ensures our trails remain in prime condition. His commitment didn’t stop there; Bob also lent his expertise and tireless efforts to the Wasakeag Snowmobile Club in Dexter, contrib uting immensely to their operations and growth. Bob’s passion for the outdoors was evident in all aspects of his life. He found immense joy in exploring Maine’s Interconnecting Trail Sys

tem (ITS) on his snowmobile, creat ing memories while camping at our beautiful state parks, and casting a line on the serene waters of Mooseh ead Lake and his beloved Lake Was sookeag, where his family resided for many years. Bob Sambito leaves behind a leg acy etched not only on the trails he helped maintain but also in the hearts of the many friends and fellow snow mobilers he encountered. We remem ber Bob with gratitude for a life well lived and for the lasting impact he has made on Maine’s winter trails.

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MAINE 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 CLUB

ADDRESS

TOWN Madison

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Central Central Central Central Central Central Central Coastal Coastal Coastal Coastal Coastal Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern Eastern

Abnaki Sno-Riders Anson-North Anson SC Lexington Hilanders SC Minnehonk Ridge Riders

1463 Lakewood Rd 18 High Street

Club house parking lot

North Anson Lexington Norridgewock Smithfield

1453 Long Falls Dam Road

Corner of North Rd & Bean Road Mount Vernon

Park & Ride trail connects to the Mount Vernon trail system Trail maps are posted at Park & Ride parking lot and all trail intersections.

Norridge Sportsmen Alliance 444-328 Martin Stream Road

Ashley Wing Memorial Park Direct Access to Kennebec Valley Railtrail KVT

Smithfield Moonshiners SC

1232 Village Road

The park in ride is the paved parking lot directly in front of the ball field. Please do not block the driveway/parking area in front of the salt/sand shed. Thank you About 3/4 a mile south from Rt 25, Vacant lot and Approx 7 miles North of Limerick on Rt #5 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. Parking lot of Town and Country Trailriders snowmobile club.

Town and Country Trailriders 35 Clubhouse Road

Clinton Cornish

Cornish Sno-Cruisers Moonlite Sno-Skimmers Westbrook Trail Blazers Westbrook Trail Blazers Westbrook Trail Blazers

Rt #5 (Sokokis Trail) 60 Val Halla Road 429 Bridge Street 771 Cumberland Street

Cumberland

Westbrook Westbrook Westbrook

Westbrook Little League Parking lot Sunset Ridge Golf Course parking lot

235 Pride Street

Prides Corner Congregational Church Parking lot will be busy Sunday mornings till about noon time. EMSC is located directly in Connector Trail 107. The yard has ample parking and an unloading ramp. 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

Eastern Maine Snowmobilers EMSC clubhouse , 263 Levenseller Rd Holden

Ebeemee SC Ebeemee SC

US Route 11, ITS 111 Intersection Ebeemee Twp

US Route 11

Ebeemee Twp

East Branch Sno-Rovers & ATV 6 Clubhouse Drive East Branch Sno-Rovers & ATV 6 Clubhouse Drive

Medway Medway

Lots of room for parking. Lunches usually served on weekends.

The club has a large parking area at their clubhouse that is plowed for trailer parking. Trailers can be parked for a day or an extended period.

LA Sledders

Club House, 3346 Bennoch Road Alton

Also the Rail Trail Parking lot off Bennoch Rd in Lagrange as well as Lagrange General Store Also, 2 miles down East Shore Rd, Lakeville, ME 04487 Large Parking Lot next to ITS 105

Quad County SC Inc. Sebasticook Valley SC

976 Lee Rd (Rt 6) 238 Moosehead Trail Sherman Citgo 1160 Crystal Road 478 Houlton Road 10 Otter Street

Springfield Newport Sherman Island Falls

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. 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) 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. 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 parking, but Located right at the I-95 Sherman exit

Northern Benedicta Snow Gang Northern Big Valley Sno Club Northern Big Valley Sno Club Northern Caribou SC

Island Falls

Caribou

Northern Caribou SC

Main Street

Stockholm

Northern Chapman Ridge Runners

94 Town Hall Road

Chapman

Snowmobile & ATV Club

please not in front of our groomer barn, “The Bullpen.”

Northern Dwinal Pond 4-Seasons Club 174 Springfield Road

East Winn

Parking lot across the road from the clubhouse (If space is filled please use clubhouse circle driveway)

Northern Madawaska SC Northern Madawaska SC Northern Moosetown Riders Northern Portage Lake SC Northern Portage Lakers Northern Smoki Haulers SC

19 Fournier Road 195 Dufour Road 20 Little Black Road

St. David (Madawaska) Ramp available for truckbed sleds. Please do not block garage overhead door where groomer is parked, or park in front of it. Free parking.

Madawaska Allagash Portage Lake

This is a private driveway located on trail ITS 81. Call 207.316.9118 for permission to park (limited space)

Park Ride behind the Little Black Checkpoint.

Station Road

This is a dirt road that connects east and west cottage road in Portage. There will be available parking on the west side of this road and will be marked with signs. Exit 286 on I-95. Heading North: take Exit 286 and take a right off the ramp. Take the first driveway on the right - big sign board out front. The driveway snakes between two homes - our log cabin Clubhouse is located in the back. Unload and you’re off and running on ITS 83! Parking is alongside Station Rd in downtown Portage. There is room for approximately 12 rigs.

Station Road

Portage Oakfield

317 Oakfield Smyrna Road

Northern Washburn Trail Runners SC

48 Station Road

Washburn

Western Western Western Western Western Western Western Western Western Western Western Western Western

Bog Hooters SC Crooked River SC

Rte 11

Mechanic Falls

Fireman’s field next to the little Androscoggin River.

661 Meadow Road Vacationland Road 219 North Main Street

Casco

Harrison Friendly Riders Narrow Gauge SC Norway Trackers SC

Harrison Strong Norway Bridgton Rumford Rumford

Take Vacationland Rd, Follow Signs.

Look for sign at entrance, indicating parking area for Narrow Gauge Snowmobile Club Park & Ride

95 Lake Road

Located at the Lake Pennesseewassee Boat Launch/ Parking Area.

Pleasant Mountain SC (Formaly Brag Way

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

Bridgton Easy Riders)

access to ITS 89.

Rumford Polar Bears Rumford Polar Bears Snow Valley Sno-Goers

Route 2

Located at the top of Falls Hill at the corner of Route 2 and South Rumford Road across from Adley’s Auto Next to Sherwin Williams at the parking lot of the old bowling alley site. McDonald’s is 3 properties away

1019 Route, Rt 2

120 Just East of Andover Village Andover

Take a right at Andover Village (Rt. 120) just down over the hill on right Parking lot holds 30 plus trailers and direct access to ITS115.

Sno Wanderers

171 Main Street 1771 US Rt 201

Kingfield

The Forks Area Trail Club

The Forks PLT

FREE PARK & RIDE LOT at Northern Outdoors on Route 201. Lot is located 1/4 mile south of Northern Outdoors and marked with a sign. The lot is large, well plowed and has plenty of room for trailers. This lot opens as soon as groomers have been able to hit the trails! Ample space for whatever trailer you might be hauling. P&R is directly across from WRVSC grooming hut. Open every day. 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.

Webb River Valley S.C. Wild River Riders

55 Shanie Lane

Carthage

Route 2

Gilead

DIRECT ACCESS

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

ITS 82 & 89

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

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

Comfort Inn Wilton 1026 US Route 2 East Wilton, ME 04294 (207) 645-5155

FREE BREAKFAST - FREE WI-FI - INDOOR POOL - BEER & WINE

choicehotels.com/me056

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From The Executive Board

From the President

snowmobile club “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. If you haven’t heard from the clubs you joined last season, reach out. Often the same people getting memberships together are also working full-time, raising a family and countless other responsibilities. Offer to lend a hand! When talking with them, ask if there is help needed to get the trails or equipment ready for snow. There are many tasks that need to be done, step up & help. I am excited by all the new names and faces we have been seeing in clubs across the State. It is great to have new people step into active roles within the local club. A huge thank you to all for saying yes. Reach out and ask for help from your club members, club next door, regional MSA director, VP or call the office. We are all here to help, no one should feel like they have to do it all 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 The MSA has been extremely busy putting together the super raffle, processing incoming memberships and putting all the pieces together for the October Snowmobile and Powersports Show. We have also been traveling around to many different events visiting clubs, selling Super Raffle tickets and displaying the raffle sleds and trailers. A group dise for world travelers. Most of our trails are on private property. Please respect their land. We would be out of business if it were not for them. Thank you, landowners large and small, you make it hap pen! Always carry a paper trail, map, or, if you have a GPS, download our trail system and study it. Watch for reroutes and new trails. Pay attention to trail signs. Remember, riding in Maine is a privilege. Respect the land. Be responsible, don’t litter, stay on marked trails. Many landowners have new tree growth and other types of vegetation growing; these areas are off limits and could jeopardize or damage the system. Prepare for the new season by giving your machine a complete checkup. Inspect your track, brakes, lights, and fluids. Do you need a new drive belt? Replace it if need be. Well-maintained sleds offer a day of great rid ing and fewer breakdowns. Also, make sure you register your sled and join a club while you’re at it. We need new volunteers and new ideas to continue making our trails in Maine an actual destination point. Suit up with the latest gear and accessories from our devoted supporting businesses. Hel mets, suits, gloves, boots, and layered clothing are season” and the anticipation is ramping up! I know that most clubs have been engaged in their pre-season activities and are all wrapped up in Trail work, fundraisers, and so on. As the season nears, I would like to thank all of the individual clubs for their hard work and determination in making their portion of the trail system the best that it can possibly be. We have so many successful clubs all over the State and THAT is what makes our trail system the best out there hands down! As if the clubs don’t have plenty to think about this time of year, you must make sure that your club’s documents are filed on time with the MSA and the Dept. of A.C.F. These documents can be found in the MSA Membership packet and the Grant packet, which comes from Joe Higgin’s office at the Dept. of A.C.F. the Snowmobile Division, and are time sensitive with deadlines.

of MSA volunteers spent three days in Epping N.H. over Columbus Day Weekend at the Grass Drags selling raffle tickets, talking shop and promoting Snowmobiling in Maine, and we are heading to West Springfield Mass. to the Mass Snowmobile Expo later next month. On the legislative side, we have been meeting and discussing which direction to take the association to bring something to the table in order to get more funding for the clubs and also helping clubs with the Grant process to direct some of the Trails bond money back into their hands. On the Trails side of the MSA, Brent and company have been diligently working on an MSA on-line mapping App. We have partnered with Map Gears and just rolled it out the middle of last month. So if you are looking for an on-line interactive Snowmobile Trail App then look no further. It is 5 bucks a year for the Pro Version and is compatible with all neighboring states. Well that’s all until next month. And as always if you have a question, comment or just wish to talk snowmobiling, please reach out and let’s have a conversation. Thank you for reading. Mark As you read this, the MSA show in Augusta is coming soon. An opportunity to get together and visit, check out sleds, groomers, trailers, gear & accessories in person, talk to a dealer or vendor representative. This year we have updated the show to include even more, so plan to get to Augusta and check it out with friends and family. You can also attend any of the workshops on grants or trail signage put on by the MSA & State snowmobile program. I will be there all 3 days and hope to see you there. We at the MSA have had a busy summer and hope you all benefit from the new additions/ changes to the super raffle & show. We also have helped folks to learn more and access information on the Maine Trails Program grant. 3 of us (Al Swett, Shana Towle & I) are MTP ambassadors who have attended workshops so we can assist with the grant process. Round #1 deadline is behind us now but stay tuned and have your next project thought through for round #2. As soon as the MSA has more information on timing and forms we will be sharing it with 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 a new way to stay comfortable. Base, mid, and outer layers will make your day a pleasant one! Many events are planned for this new sea son. Rangely Snodeo is always a hit place to be. The Pine Tree Camp Ride In, in the Millinocket area, always has some great things to do, along with The County, Green ville, Jackman, and many places in between. Maine has so much to offer in the wintertime. Snowmobiling is big business; it helps our State, and the many supporting companies make it from one season to the next. Be prepared when you ride. If you trailer, check it over, that would be great. Wheels, tires, lug nuts, any broken framework? Always, after each trip, check your lug nuts and torque them if you can. If your tires are cracking, replace them. Make sure all your lights work. Don’t give the SP a reason to pull you over. New GPS programs will be avail able; check them out. Bring a first aid kit and a survival kit. These could save your life or someone else’s. Respect our generous land owners, support our supporting businesses, and join a club. We have over 285 MSA clubs eager for help and to lend a hand. Please be safe out there! Al and talk through landowner issues, potentially resolving issues for your club.

Treasurer’s Report

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

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

H ello Everyone,

Monthly Income Monthly Expense

$ 38,128.46 $ 28,949.37 $ 9,179.09 $ 93,956.22 $140,132.46 $139,501.24

Well we are another month closer to “the

Net Revenue

Short Term CD (9/30/25)

From the Executive VP

Checking (9/30/25)

Dedicated Account (9/30/25)

Pay Pal (9/30/25) 0.00 Stripe (9/30/25) - Online Super Raffle $ 1,301.99 Special Events Account (9/30/25) $ 4,987.53 Credit Line (9/30/25) $ - Building Fund (9/30/25) $ 56,849.96 Brian Wass Safety Fund (9/30/25) $ 3,997.00 Scholarship Savings (9/30/25) $ 66,948.57 ($60,000 to be moved to Northeast Bank) Scholarship CD (9/30/25) $ 0.00 Scholarship 12 Month CD (9/30/25) $ 5,114.86 Larry Lafland scholarship Fund (9/30/25) $ 3,049.74 CLUB MEMBERS Once grooming begins submit your trail reports to: EDITOR@MESNOW.COM Please include your name and club affiliation MSA CLUBS: TO ORDER NEEDED $ ITS & JCT SIGNS Contact Mike Grass Sr. MSA Trails Committee 252 Condon Road, Plymouth, ME 04969 207-368-4914 home 207-745-2745 cell Grasslands252@gmail.com TO ORDER CLUB TRAIL SIGNAGE Candice Pinkham, DACF/Snowmobile Program 207-287-4957 Office 207-878-8111 Fax Candice.M.Pinkham @maine.gov

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

H ello fellow snowmobilers, Welcome to fall…leaves changing, frosty mornings and here in the County the farmers are getting their potato crop out of the fields. We all know what that means, coming soon… WINTER! You should have received your clubs membership packets from MSA and grant packages from the State by now. Club representatives statewide will continue their relentless work to support snowmobiling and your local community businesses year ‘round. Anyone who is involved understands the

Director of Operations

Alan Swett, 207-872-7282 234 County Rd, Waterville ME 04901 snowtraveler@roadrunner.com A s autumn fades to winter and the first frost settles in. Maine snowmobile rid ers know what’s coming soon! Maine snow! The sound of snowmobiles driving through the Maine pinewoods and crossing some of the most scenic trails in the country. With over 14,000 miles of groomed trails, we are a para

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From The Executive Board Secretary’s Report - Shanna Towle Directors Meeting - Route 11 Streakers Club House, Limerick, Maine - September 16, 2025

Northern: Nick M - Not much going on now, waiting on farmers to harvest crops, clubs have gotten packets, just had grass drag in Ashland “good job to all who helped out”. Director of Operations: Al S – Thanks to RT11, very busy at office, still waiting for the Alcom trailer for the drawing, MSA show coming up, getting more posters made for the show, need people to help at the show. Safety: Al S – Main concern this year to get out and more involved with schools and clubhouses to get the word out on safety on the trails, safety posters arriving shortly, IF&W safety course available. Scholarship: Barry R – Recapped the scholarship funds in the Treasurer’s report. Trails: Mike G – Had the first couple trail committee meetings and no major problems known, still working on the map app to hope to have ready for the show in October. Membership: Eileen L – Memberships are starting to roll in, encouraged to get in ASAP, great to see coming in. Hospitality & Hall of Fame: Gail R – Sent get well cards to Jerry Major, Matt Baron and sent a birthday card to Lori H, gave a joke. Funding: Matt S – MTP grant deadline is 9/26 by 5pm this is round 1 of 4 for the 30 million available, hope to have a grant workshop at the show for the grant, the bill we had didn’t pass last session but wasn’t declined either was held over for next session, objective is to get more funds on the trails OLD BUSINESS: Super raffle update & MSA Snowmobile & Powersports Show Update: online raffle underway, changes and improvements to the show more coming next year, volunteers needed. Funding & MTP updates: see prior notes for donations to help grow the fund and for ways to increase the number of scholarships, it awards. It encourages clubs to donate to the fund either from money raised through bottle drives, 50/50 club drawings, or from other fund-raising events they have. There will be an MSA Scholarship booth at the MSA Snow mobile and Powersports Show in Augusta in

Opening remarks done by President Mark C.- Thanks to Rt 11 Streakers for hosting the night. Secretary’s report: Copies were given out to read. Motion to accept as written by Dave Watson and seconded by Brad Barker. Motion passed. Treasurer’s report: Copies were given out and were read by Assistant Treasurer, Barry Ryan. No objections or changes so copy will be placed on file at the MSA office. President’s comments: Thanks to RT11 for hosting & setting up a great dinner, the online tickets are underway and sold $1,000 so far, have the MSA show coming up, Al been running the prize sleds all over the state for ticket sales, still need volunteers at the show, had 19 clubs sign up to sell tickets at the show but only have 6 slots so will be drawing tonight the winners Ex VP comments: Matt said sorry not able to attend in person, commented will touch on Eastern: Eileen L - Thanks to RT11, most clubs starting up next week with meetings, EMSC open house on 9/21, Ebeemee has some things that need to be worked on, local issue in Millinocket but will get resolved. Western: Jerry M - Was present. Central: Ron N - Packets delivered to clubs, New Portland got a “new” groomer donated and have 2 drags for sale. Coastal: Dave W - Thanked RT11, been asked to write article for MSA paper on trails in Coastal region so looking for photos, POI, rest areas, food, gas, etc. please email any highlights. be available to you. The Maine Snowmobile Association has a scholarship application process for MSA members who are looking to further their edu cation. All you have to do is have been a mem ber of an MSA snowmobile club for the previ ous two years and fill out an application. The deadline for this application is April 1, 2026 so it is never too early to start. Go on the MSA website, www.mainesnowmobileassociation. com click on membership, go to MSA Schol arship Fund, and download the application or fill it out on line. You must include ALL REQUIRED information in order to be consid ered. The scholarship recipients will be noti fied in April 2026 and if selected the money will be sent to the school of their choice in late January of 2027 once they complete their first semester and send a copy of the second semes ter registration to the MSA office. The Scholarship Committee is pleased to announce once again this year there will be THREE $1,500 scholarships awarded. Thanks to the generous donation from the Route 11 Streakers SC from their T- Bone Cook off and funds raised by the committee, three scholarships can be funded. The Scholarship Fund is always looking Alan Swett 207-872-7282 234 County Rd, Waterville ME 04901 snowtraveler@roadrunner.com W ell, it’s getting close to our season, and as winter approaches, it’s time to check over our equipment. Here are a few areas to consider. Let’s start with your snowmobile. Does the Battery need to be replaced? The fuel system may need a new filter; check for cracked or leaking fuel lines. Spark plugs may need to be replaced if they are old and worn. The drive belt should be checked for cracks and wear. Replace it if it’s damaged. How are your brakes? Test for proper use. Headlights, taillights, kill switch, and make sure the throt tle works freely. Steering and carbides look funding later in the meeting REGIONAL VP REPORTS:

above from Matt. Fall Summit Roundtable: Sept 20th update: binders are made up for the summit on 9/20/2025 hosted by EMSC 263 Levenseller Rd Holden starts at 10am. GPS Mapping update: still getting club permissions to post trails on new map app been working with MapGear, also will have a booth at the show about the new map app. NEW BUSINESS: Election of Tom England to Coastal Regional Director: passed & welcomed Tom to new roll Drawing for Super Raffle Sales at show: 6 slots drawn out of 19 who applied Friday 3-9pm Snow Valley Snowgoers Sat 9-1pm Neqasset Trailblazers Sat 1-5pm Town & Country Sat 5-8pm Litchfield SC Sun 9-12pm Alna SC Sun 12-3pm Narrow Gauge SC ANNOUNCEMENTS & EVENTS: Swap meet by Northern Timber Cruisers on 9/20/2025. Bridgton Brewfest on 9/27/2025, Pleasant Mountain SC. JoMary Riders SC having a cookout on Oct 11 th at Five Lakes Lodge from 4-7pm. Ebeemee planning Rick Levasser memorial ride and vintage ride for Feb more info to come. East Branch Snow Rovers doing Groomer Rodeo a Saturday in early February. Pot of Gold – Podunk SC Dixfield drawn but not present so back into pot. 50/50 Drawing - $73 winning ticket #957052 Mark Chinnock won and gave back to scholarship fund. Meeting Adjourned at 8:43pm. October. That’s where you can get your 50/50 tickets and help support the fund. The Committee would also like to thank the MSA directors that attend the monthly directors’ meetings for their support. At these meetings, there is also a 50/50 drawing and the proceeds will once again this year go to the scholarship fund.

Shanna Towle, Secretary 207-341-1747 878 Main Steet, Palmyra, ME 04965 shannatowle@gmail.com

ATTENDEES: President: Mark Chinnock, Executive VP: Matt Stedman (via zoom), Secretary: Shanna Towle, Brad Barker, Randy MacWhinnie, Joe Walsh, Joe Joe Walsh, Wayne Leslie, Randy MacWhinnie, Tom England, Matt Baron, Michelle Baron, Patrick Rosa, Molly Libby-Baron, Al Swett, Devan Rodrigue, Don Allaire, Catherine Horne, Richard Horne, Paula Huff, Ron Nunes, Lori Nunes, Bob Corthell, Mary Corthell, Bob Flagg, Marion Pinkham, Barry Ryan, Gail Ryan, Eileen Lafland, Dave Watson, Betsy Watson, Via Zoom: Pete & Laurie Plourde, Charlie Huntington, Nick Morrill, Mike Delong, Ed Brownell, Jim Splan, Mike Grass Jr & Jerry Major. Meeting called to order at 7:24pm by President Mark Chinnook. Salute to the American flag.

Scholarship Committee

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

W ith the temperatures beginning to fall and the snowmobile season starting up, it is also time for those students who are look ing to further their education after this school year to think about how to fund it. It’s never to early to research scholarship money that could

for wear and tear. This is very important. Check the shocks up front and on the rear for damage and wear. How’s your track any rips or tears? How about your snowmobile clothing and gear, if you don’t mind me asking? Check for fit and comfort. Base layers, mid layers, and outer layers of clothing should be looked over. Boots, gloves, and DOT helmets should all be inspected before the first snow. Take a look at your trailer, change the tires if they’re cracked or weathered. Make sure all the lights work and look for cracks in the framework. Always check your wheel torque after each trip, as many wheels loosen up and could lead to a bad situation during your out ing. Always bring a spare tire and make sure

it has air in it! Battery-powered impact guns and floor jacks are beneficial. Also, upgraded LED lighting is helpful on our trails. Our first ride out is always a memorable one; make it a safe one, too Also, to all the trail builders out there, wear your PPE and watch out for unsafe conditions. Be aware of rocks and tree roots underfoot, tree branches, and get help with heavy lifting. Watch out for hunters, and wear blaze orange, good boots, and gloves to get the job done. Please remember to change your smoke alarm batteries. Be safe out there. Appreciate all you do, AL

Safety Committee

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From The Executive Board

Also check out the public website associated with the APP, msa.evtrails.com. The trail layer currently only has the ITS and Connector trails but we will be adding club trails as we get data and authorization from individual clubs. The MSA leadership is in the process of finalizing point of interest (POI’s) guidelines for adver tising that will benefit clubs directly. This will be our first season with this APP so there will probably be a learning curve for all involved. Please share your feedback and be part of the solution as we move forward. I am excited about our ability to update trail information in house. We will now have the same platform that New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and the Canadian provinces to our North. We have been collaborating to standardize the color scheme for main, connec tor, and club trails as well as closed and open status throughout the entire region. The trail committee is in its regular monthly meeting schedule and coordinators should be actively contacting clubs on their beat. Mapping meetings are in the works to define routes for inspections and club assignments. I know first hand that clubs are working on their grants and getting geared up for the season. Let’s hope this warm spell (82* today) exits and the cooler weather prevails. Winter is only a few weeks away!! All for now……….. Brent changing from summer to winter sports. Many of our clubs are working hard to prepare the trail system for all to use and enjoy. Always remember support a club or clubs with your help or by joining or funding. Our Central Region clubs have events going on Anson North Anson snowmobile club has their Annual craft fair November 1st and a breakfast on March 23. Also the Lexington Highlanders Snowmobile Club will be hosting a Hunters Breakfast every Saturday starting October 25 through November 29 from 5-9 am along with tons of events from Jackman to Gardiner. I had some great conversations with different clubs that we delivered membership and super raffle packages to. You all work very hard and it is greatly appreciated by the trail riders and the MSA. Thank you to all. I hope you all have made your submissions for the trails Grant. If not, there’s always next year. Think Snow !!!! Ron Nunes Central Region VP The MSA directors have had two meetings for the new season so far with the third one coming up in October. I enjoy these meet ings because I get to talk to people I haven’t seen in months and to hear all the great things happening around the state and in my own region. At the August meeting, I met two of the new people reviving the Burlington Back Country Riders SC, Kelley and Jeff St. Pierre. On September 22 nd Barry and Gail Ryan and myself attended their club meeting and met more great people. It is always nice to see a club come back with new members and fresh ideas. On September 24 th I spoke on the phone with Robert Tretheway and Jay Marshall who are reviving the Twin Rivers SC in Howland. Again, such a pleasure to hear of clubs coming back and knowing that snowmobilers in these areas will have a club to turn to. I want to thank my regional directors Barry Ryan, Charlie Huntington, Craig Lemieux and Gary Dowling for the tremendous effort to get the club packets out in their areas. It would take me at least three days and many, many miles of driving to do what these guys do to make sure clubs receive their informa tion for the new season. My plan is to hold regional meetings in at least three areas of my region this year and once again, I will be get ting assistance from these regional directors to make them happen. It’s been said many, many times and it is so true, the MSA family is the greatest. Until November, attend the show, sell those raffle tickets, submit the memberships, hold the club meetings, work on the trails but above all else- HAVE FUN DOING IT! Eileen

Trails Committee Chair Report

A nother season has begun for the MSA and snowmobile clubs across the state. By now clubs have received their member ship packets and are sending in this year’s memberships. The numbers in this article are as of Sept. 25 th and they have changed greatly since then. Keep sending them in as you get them so everyone gets their paper.

From The Membership Corner

Family memberships

623

Business memberships

118

Total memberships

741

With a total of 285 clubs in the state her is the membership count by region.

Brent Spaulding, MSA Trails Chairman 207-944-7762 41 Madison Ave Brewer ME 04412 msatrailchair@gmail.com G reetings from Brewer, The season is in full swing and by now, the 2025 Show in Augusta is in the books. I hope you had a chance to attend. The big news in my department was the release of the MSA’s very own MSA TRAILS APP. I hope you have had a chance to download and look over the features available to you. If not, you can still find our APP in the Google Playstore and Apple store.

Central

52 memberships

Coastal

72 memberships

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

Eastern

274 memberships

Northern

223 memberships

Western

112 memberships

David Watson • 207-205-1558 412 Roberts Ridge Road East Waterboro, ME 04030 Dwatson6841@gmail.com F all is here, Temps are dropping, Clubs across the state are gearing up to once again make MAINE “The Best Riding in the EAST” thanks to all volunteers who make it happen!! MSA Sports show is looking good. The super raffle is on fire!! Please sell your tickets and make some money for your club. If your club has an event let me know. Welcome to the newest MSA Regional Director Tom England, Tom joins Matt Baron and Joe Walsh to answer questions for the Coastal region. Please reach out to them! Think Snow and start the “Snow Dance” Dave Speaking of powersports make sure to mark your calendars for the weekend of Oct. 17th - 19 th as the MSA host the Maine Snowmobile Association Powersports Show at the Augusta Civic center. If your an outdoor powersports enthusiast no matter if your into riding motor cycle, atv’s or side x side’s or if your into boat ing or in the market for a new lawn mower or compact utility tractor or if you’re in the need for a new trailer to tow with or even a barn or shed to store your favorite toys in this is going to be the place to be. Also, while at the show be sure to check out the large display of antique sleds that will be taking place all weekend long. Lastly all Northern clubs should be on the lookout for either an email or message from myself or Matt Stedman along with social media posts in regards to a regional meeting that is going to be held on November 9th in Caribou. Time and place to be determined. We’d like to see at least one if not more rep resentatives from each club as we have some very important info to share with you all. In closing, I’d like to tell you all to do whatever you gotta do so Mother Nature hears our call for snow this winter as she hasn’t been very kind to us at all the past 2 years. Remember that when you do ride to always ride right, ride smart and ride sober. Until next time, Nick Morrill clicking on the Super Raffle ticket link. There you can purchase as many tickets as your heart desires and you can select a club that is partici pating in the online sale and they will get credit for your ticket purchase. As we slowly wind down the summer pow ersports season and start looking forward to the winter season now is better than ever to start thinking about digging our winter toys out and getting them into your local powersport shops to be ready for the upcoming riding season. I’m sure some of these shops will be delighted to see you as this time of year can be a little slow for some and that little bit of money we can inject into their pockets with help make sure there still there to meet our needs in the months and years to come.

Northern Region VP

Central Region VP

Nick Morrill, 207-554-0074 406 Main Street, Stockholm ME 04783 landscaper9791@gmail.com G reetings to everyone from The County!! As I sit here and write this article on a beautiful warm fall day the potato farms are in full swing harvesting this year’s crop and the fall foliage is in full peak. The Big Woods Grass Drags along with the Dust Bowl have just wrapped up and the fall high school sports seasons are in the thick of things, which can only mean the 2025/26 riding season is only a few short months away. Some clubs in the area have already begun to meet while others are beginning to schedule their first meetings of the season. All area clubs have received their membership packets so that means you should be seeing club renewals soon in your mail box if you haven’t already. For those of you with busy lives and sched ules purchasing a club membership to your local or favorite club is the best possible way to support them, as there are clubs that are really in need of that financial support for the upcoming season. Another great way to sup port the clubs right now before the riding sea son is upon us is by reaching out to the clubs and purchasing MSA Super Raffle tickets. The clubs get to keep 50% of the proceeds they sell in tickets. This year the association has added an additional option to purchase tickets via online by going to the MSA website and

Ron Nunes, 401-527-5370 260 Last Round Up Rd, Lexington Twp, ME 04961 Thelastroundup2018@gmail.com H ello again, Central region members and riders. As you all know, the leaves are changing, temperatures are changing and minds are

Eastern Region VP

Eileen Lafland 207-843-7813 PO Box 733, Holden ME 04429 L.andE.lafland525476@gmail.com O ctober is such a wonderful time of year for all of us in the snowmobiling world. The temperatures are getting cooler, the leaves are changing colors, and fall is in the air. It is also a very busy time of year for us as well. Club meetings are starting up, membership drives are happening, raffle tickets are being sold and trail work is beginning!! That doesn’t take in to account the snowmobile and powersports shows happening this month. If you wanted to get your fix of shows you could start the first weekend in NY, the second weekend in NH and finish with the best, MSA’s own Snow mobile and Powersports show in Augusta!! With all, that happening it definitely means winter and snowmobile season should be right around the corner.

Coastal Region VP

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MSA Club News

From The Executive Board

CENTRAL REGION Our RTP grant work to replace two bridges continues. Our volunteers have been working hard to prime the steel bridge frames, cut trees to make room for the wider bridge abutments and begin demo of the old bridges. We also received a donation of 12 yards of 1-1/2” stone for the abutment foundation thanks to Scott and Hallowell Construction in Belgrade. We have been breaking in our new Polaris Ranger with some trail work trimming trees and bush hogging. The machine will be wired for lights and drag control and be ready for grooming when the snow arrives. We hope to get out a couple times in Octo ber to clean up the trails. So far, we have not identified any significant issues to address. We will again publish the regional C4 map and those will be available from participating clubs and at the Rome Town Hall. Our meet ings are the second Tuesday of the month Sep tember to April, 7:00PM at the Rome Town Hall. All are welcome. Hello again…. As we transition from early fall to getting ready to welcome late fall, we welcome the count-down for cold weather and hopefully lots and lots of snow! Our trails are looking great this year, brush cleared, bridge repairs and a new bridge has been completed. Talking to landowners for permission for use and not abuse of their land. This may be an early reminder to respect the trails you ride, a landowner has given permission for us to use it, not abuse it. That means staying on the trails, not ripping through someone’s fields. Many fields have winter crops under that snow and compacting the snow kills the crops. Brady, Josh and Matt were busy this past week spreading gravel preparing for a new concrete pad outside our equipment building. Busy making sure our equipment is ready to go. It is that time! We are starting to send out membership renewals for the new season so be on the lookout for those applications com ing in the mail if they haven’t already. Joining our club helps us financially to maintain our equipment, keep our club and club house up and running. Our monthly meetings have begun. The meetings are held at 6:30p.m. the second Thursday of each month from Oct – April. Our kitchen is open at 5:30p.m. pre meeting meal for food and drink purchase. During riding season our kitchen is open every week end for food and drink purchases. Hours are 10am-4pm when it’s fit to ride. MSA 2025 Super raffle tickets are now available, Tickets are $2/each or 6/$10.00 Drawing is on Thursday 12.11.2025. You can purchase by coming to the club or contacting Matt Charrier on the Sno-Devils Snowmobile club’s Facebook page. SNO-DEVILS sc Saint Albans, ME selling a lot of super raffle tickets at Fryeburg Fair, as I sit and write this, make a lot of $$ over there. There have been quite a few cookouts and functions at our clubs and the wife and I have had the pleasure to attend a couple of them. Oxford is still struggling with how to get a route through town as a landowner has shut down the bridge over the Little Androscoggin, there is a dedicated group down there and I expect we will make it one way or another. On the good news side the problems in Newry have been solved and ITS 82 is a go. The drought is scary, pray we don’t have any Forest Fires, with the lack of water this summer, maybe we will get lucky and have snow like we haven’t seen in years. So until next time, stay safe and get out helping on trails. God bless, Jerry Major ROME RUFF RIDERS Rome, ME

We have club tee shirts, hooded sweat shirts and ball caps for sale, available at the clubhouse. Now, next order of business is to get our snow dance warrior Cooper on that snow dance of his! Our officer’s election is held in Oct. Cur rent Officers: President: Brady Snowman, Vice President: Matt Charrier, Treasure: Mark Hansen, Trail Master: Josh Lord, Secretary: Bonnie Jepson. RIPLEY TRAIL RIDERS Ripley, ME The Ripley Trail Riders Snowmobile Club had another successful season and we’re anx iously awaiting the 2025 snowmobiling sea son. We have 63 MSA, 7 associate and 10 business members who support the effort to keep our 27 miles of trails open to the public. We are once again thankful to the real heroes of our sport, the 70 landowners who grant us permission to cross their property with our trails. There can be no snowmobile club with out their generosity. To express our apprecia tion, we will treat the landowners to a dinner at the Ripley town hall in October. Our annual fundraising auction was con ducted on September 21, 2025. It was a great success and will help fund club improvements and support for our trail maintenance activi ties. We wish to thank everyone who donated auction items and those who came to make purchases (and a special thank you to Al Swett for once again coming out to show-off the MSA auction offerings). A major improvement to our club’s garage was completed over the summer and we have several trail improvement projects planned before the snow flies. Club members always step up to do the bulk of the work. The key to the success of our club is its’ membership. With that in mind we want to honor one of our original members who passed away this year. Bob Sambito helped get our club started during the formative years. He was always present for the monthly club meetings and was the first one to arrive to help with trail maintenance, trail grooming, and attending, and sometimes hosting, club functions (I especially remember one awesome February ‘breakfast on the trail’ event). Plus, he was great at keeping the club garage organized and clean. Bob embodied the very definition of a perfect club member. We will miss you, Bob. We send our condolences to your family and friends. Hello fellow Snowmobilers! I have taken on the post of our club reporter. I hope I can do as well as my predecessor, Cathy Horne. Our Chicken BBQ on Labor Day weekend was a great success. We had a great crowd and sold out of chicken. Many thanks to the MSA for coming in with a display of sleds and trailers to help sell raffle tickets. Sales were very good. Respectfully submitted, Don Gower, Secretary LEXINGTON HIGHLANDERS sc Lexington Twp, ME

Jerry Major, Cell: 207-838-0892 137 Morrill Rd, Norway ME 04268 mrfun101jem@gmail.com W ell there isn’t a lot to report here in Western region. I am sure they are

The Club also had a vendor booth at the New Portland Lions Club Agricultural Fair September 11 th -14 th . Beautiful weather and increased attendance made for great raffle ticket sales. Again, thanks to the MSA for helping with the booth. Trail work started this month on Saturday mornings at 9am. This will change to Sun days at 9am during hunting season. We have a lot of work to do and your help is greatly appreciated. Speaking of hunting season, we will be hosting a Hunters Breakfast each Saturday beginning with Youth Hunting Day on Octo ber 25 and continuing through the month of November. We will be serving from 5am to 9am. Our club house will be open on the week ends during snow season. We will be selling non ethanol gas. Thanksgiving Friends and Family will return again this year. It will be held a 2pm on Thursday, November 27, 2025. Happy fall and hope to see you at the Snow mobile Show in Augusta! Katie Grant COSTAL REGION WISCASSET SNO-GOERS Wiscasset, ME Greetings to all from the Wiscasset Sno-Goers, Welcome to the first installment of Wiscas set Sno-Goer news! Let’s face it, no one is more surprised that I still have this gig than me. Season is early and elections up-coming so we’ll see if I hold onto this job for another season. We do have to start out with a bit of somber news. Earlier this summer, we unexpectedly lost our long time Sno-goer and Treasurer Bob Marcus. Bob’s attention to detail while man aging the club’s finances as well as his humor at meetings will certainly be missed. Wishing Bob bright sunny February Days and fresh tracks on groomed trails every ride.

MSA Club News

Deadlines for club news is the 25 th of the month prior to the publications. Please submit articles to editor@mesnow.com

NORTHERN REGION

BENEDICTA SNOW GANG Benedicta, ME

Hi Gang, To start off with, let’s hope we get more snow than we have had rain, because I believe we have had less than one inch of rain in three months!! If we get that kind of snow, we will be walking!! I really don’t have much going on this month to report on. The groomer garage is all closed in and the overhead doors should be on soon. Our first club meeting was well attended, with a lot of good information shared. Our membership is up over thirty already, so sled ders are starting to stir. Both of our club raffles are going well. Tickets are available from any club officer. Trails are being opened up at this time, but limited due to the high fire danger. Just one spark from a saw or a machine could be really bad. Use caution and your heads out there. Please go to www.benedictasnowgang.com or to The Benedicta Snowgang on Facebook for all the info. you will need on the club and our activities. Remember:::: Heads down, Orange on ~~~~ IT’S HUNTING SEASON!! Jim Splan, Reporter @ Large P.S~ Backstrap Baby!! P.SS ~ The Redsox rule!! P.SSS ~ You rock Bryce!! P.SSS~ Thank your landowners!! MOLUNKUS VALLEY SNO-DRIFTERS Sherman, ME Greetings from MVSD! October is here we have been very busy working on preparations for the upcoming season .... we are Blessed we have many Vol unteers to get the jobs done :) as I write this the leaves are peak and so beautiful! Memberships are coming in great. By the time you read this the 1st meeting will be behind us ! The groomer garage is all insulated and wired the lights are bright and we are very proud as we should be lots of hard work to make this happen! Looking forward to new and bigger things happening at MVSD! KEEP UR EYES PEELED! MSA tickets are selling and club super raffle tickets are to! Your support helps things hap pen @ MVSD! Appreciate each and every one of you! If interested in tickets message us! The club where there are no Strangers only friends you haven’t met! That’s all folks! Keep on Keeping ON! Deb Long {club Pres} :)

On to some lighter and exciting news. The Sno-goers is excited to add an awesome piece of equipment to the Trail maintenance fleet. In addition to the existing Bearcat groomers, we have just completed the purchase of a Kawasaki Side by Side completely equipped with tracks and even an enclosure. This piece of equipment, officially named “Wiscasset Sno-Goers Trail Support Vehicle… WSTSV” will be a great addition to the trail mainte nance fleet. That’s right, I write the articles so I name the equipment. Special thanks to Harry’s Motorsports in Presque Isle for com pleting the deal and outfitting the new rig….

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