Point of Sale Southeast sensation

Transcription

N O V E M B E R 2 014
Point of Sale
How to best fund
snowmachining
Southeast
sensation
Emmett Melton’s
a sled beast
Sled poor
Follow these tips
to stay on track
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2
• Alaska SnowRider • November 2014 • www.RideAlaska.com
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www.RideAlaska.com • November 2014 • Alaska SnowRider •
3
Volume 25, Number 2
PU B L ISHER
John Woodbury
SAL E S & M AR K E T IN G D IR E C TO R
Jill Tillion
BUSIN E SS M ANAG ER
KEVIN HITE ASSA President
Point of Sale primer
Three-part series covers all you need to know
about snowmachine registration program
A
s I referenced in my last column,
included in this issue are the three
articles that discuss a recommended
path forward for our Point of Sale Registration Program. In order to support a continuing and successful trail grant and grooming
program, everyone recognizes that we will
have to self-fund this program.
In discussions with the Gov. Sean Parnell
and his staff, the administration is reluctant
to address an item that they could be hammered with over “Raising Taxes,” so this path
forward will have to genuinely be a grassroots
push with the final result being a program
that identifies, funds and demands a modern
snowmobile program in the largest state in
the nation.
To that point, while the Alaska State
Snowmobile Association is ready to take the
point on the issue, your club participation
and voices will be critical. Please read this
series and discuss with your club. Let’s move
forward with a new plan, beginning with Part
1, “The Creation and Historical Challenges of
Point of Sale.”
PART 1
For some snowmobilers, the registration
program is something that, while on the edge
of consciousness, is not a major item that
gets much thought. After all, $5 per year is
basically one latte, or a gallon of gas, in some
areas. Fewer snowmobilers are aware that the
legal registration of snowmobiles has been in
effect in Alaska for decades.
Up until 1997, there was no legal penalty
for not registering a snowmobile that is used
on public property. There were some codes
that addressed riding on state lands with no
registration, but once again, without any enforcement or mandatory registration, I cannot
recall one instance of enforcement.
At the same time, snowmobilers in Alaska
4
began to realize that there was no infrastructure to support their choice of recreation or
in many instances, no infrastructure to support destinations or community trail systems
that they availed themselves of.
This was also a time in Alaska of some
land managers that were, to put it charitably, ambiguous about snowmobiles in
general and specifically not supportive of
trail systems that they were suddenly being
asked to create and maintain. More and more
people were snowmobiling for recreational
purposes, and this growth meant more and
more requests for trails, signage and safety
programs.
To address this shortage, the organized
snowmobile community proposed a solution. The registration fees collected would be
returned to the snowmobile community to
self-fund the creation of new trails, maintain
these trails and begin the process of a statewide safety program to address many concerns of the community at large. At this time
in the evolution of snowmobiles, there were
tremendous leaps being made in the capabilities of the “backcountry sleds.” This resulted
in a tremendous influx of riders entering the
backcountry into areas previously not attainable. Partially as a result of this access, the
avalanche deaths in Alaska snowmobiling
reached record numbers.
In response to this, a proposal was put to
the Legislature to address these problems.
Snowmobiles would be required by law to be
registered at the Point of Sale. That money
would then be returned to the snowmobile
community for support of a program to create new trails, maintain existing ones and to
create a safety program that would respond
and address Alaska’s unique requirements.
In June of 1997, with the support of the
Part one continued on page 11
Linda Cushman
EDITOR
Melissa DeVaughn
MANAGING EDITOR
Joy Sullivan
[email protected]
PRODUC TION MANAGER
Meranda Carter
Alaska Adventure Media
6921 Brayton Drive, Suite 207
Anchorage , Alaska 99507
(907) 677-2900 • Fax: (907) 677-2901
www.RideAlaska.com
[email protected]
ED I TO R IAL CO N TAC T
Melissa DeVaughn
(907) 677-2900
[email protected]
Published by Alaska Adventure Media under exclusive written
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www.AlaskaSnowRider.com
On the cover:
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You
Tube
Q&A
THE
EMMETT MELTON
BY JOY SULLIVAN
here is no shortage of
talented athletes that
call Alaska home. Over
the season, Alaska
SnowRider will highlight a few of
them in our pages. Our first hidden
gem is straight out of Craig, in
southeast, Alaska. Craig is the largest town on Prince of Wales Island,
with a population of around 1,200
people. Emmett Melton first caught
my attention as a rider for Sled
Descent, and seeing he was from
Alaska I started following his budding career via Facebook. The sport
of snowmachining has a mixed
review as far as reputation goes,
but as the sport grows people like
Emmett are doing their part to not
only represent the sport positively,
but also Alaska. If you want to keep
up on all his crazy shenanigans this
sledding season look him up on Instagram @emmettdmelton or add
Emmett Melton via Facebook.
Melton shared a few minutes
with us in this recent question and
answer:
SNOWMACHINER PROFILE
T
SnowRider: Are you Alaska
grown or a transplant?
Melton: Alaska grown!
SR: Being you’re Alaska grown,
does that mean you’ve been riding
since birth?
EM: I’ve been riding sleds basically all my life.
SR: Not asking for the GPS to
your secret stash of powder or anything, but give me a general idea of
where you like ride in Alaska.
EM: Since I have yet to hit up
some of the well-known riding
areas in Alaska like Lost Lake,
Valdez and Whittier I would have
to say Summit Lake. When the
6
have missed that would be sick to
explore.
I see myself continuing to grow
within the sledding industry and
my dream since I was a little kid
—and I’m pretty sure it’s the same
one every other kid has— is to be
featured in a major sled video. I
would like to get out and do a bit
more traveling to meet up with
some of the best riders in the industry to push myself and learn as
much as possible from them.
snow conditions are prime the riding is absolutely amazing. Our local
area down here on Prince of Wales
Island provides some pretty technical treelines, steep mountains
and wicked open areas to carve
up all the fresh powder you want.
I’m always open to traveling and
exploring new areas in Alaska.
SR: Are you a sponsored athlete?
EM: Yes, I have been very
fortunate to be working with some
of the best companies and groups
in the snowmobile industry for
the past few years. They have all
provided me with excellent support
and top-of-the-line products and
because of that I am able to do what
I do in the backcountry. I can’t
thank the following companies
enough for everything they do
for me: Klim, 509inc, Sledwraps,
SR: As always the touchy subject
of brand comes into play. What sled
are you currently riding and what
about it appeals to you as a rider?
EM: Currently I own a 2013
Arctic Cat Proclimb M800 Snopro
153-inch with a few extras added
over the past few years. I will be on
“WHEN YOU’RE a 2014 Polaris Assault
155-inch this year that
PUSHING YOUR
will have some pretty
C&A Pro Skis, B&M LIMITS EVERY
sweet extras on it. The
Fabrications, RSI
YEAR YOU
reasons why I chose ’13
Racing, Mountain
TEND TO HAVE Cat was the power that
Addiction, IceAge
ACCIDENTS
motor produces is pretPerformance, Atlas
AND MANY
ty hard to beat along
Braces, Blownmotor,
NEAR MISSES, with its rigid chassis
Sled Descent, TheRit was a no brainer. I
WHICH I HAVE
iderScope, NWSledam making the switch
HAD
PLENTY.”
der, AdrenalineNW,
over to Polaris because
–Emmet
Melton
Sledjunkies & Cobra
I like to switch it up
Pull Cords.
every two years and
that Assault caught my attention.
SR: Every rider has personal
I’m stoked to get on a new sled and
goals, share with us some of yours
chassis and see what I am able to do
... and where do you see yourself in
this year.
the future of the industry?
EM: I would have to say my
SR: We’ve all been beat up by
biggest goal is to keep the progresour machines, riding is a dangersion going each year. I have spent
ous sport. What kind of close
countless hours this past summer
encounters and mishaps have you
going over all my footage from
had along the way?
prior years and seeing what I can
EM: When you’re pushing your
improve and areas and lines I may
limits every year you tend to have
accidents and many near misses
which I have had plenty. I would
have to say the one that has stuck
with me was when I was in high
school. We were waiting to board a
flight to head out on another sports
trip when we decided to go for a
quick ride. My first mistake was not
grabbing my helmet. Back then I
was riding a 2001 MXZ 600, which
was a pretty sweet little ride. We
came across some overflow on the
river I didn’t think much of it so I
lined up and pinned it. Everything
was going fine until I let off the
throttle nearing the other side, my
left ski went under the ice and all I
remember is getting thrown from
the sled head first into the icy water. The sled ended up doing three
of four cartwheels up and over me,
she was totaled and I was badly
cut up and bruised. My boots were
even ripped off and laying about 10
feet away. From this day on I never
went out without the proper safety
gear.
SR: Who is someone in this industry who has had an influenced
you as a rider?
EM: With so many amazing
riders out there today it’s pretty
hard to pick one, so here are two of
them. I’d say my biggest influence
would be Chris Burandt, that guy
is so smooth when it comes to
riding whether it be in the trees,
deep powder or mountain sides
he makes it look effortless. I have
watched him since the early Sledneck days and to see what he has
accomplished within this industry
is simply amazing. Another rider
that has really made me push it
these past few years to get better
and see what I can do is Brett Turcotte – that guy is an animal on a
sled and I love watching how huge
he sends it out there. The tricks he
is throwing down off some of those
hits is downright crazy but that’s
what drives me to get out and ride.
I was lucky enough to meet both
these guys along with many other
amazing riders this past August at
the 509 premier down in Spokane,
Wash. Although it was a very quick
trip; it was well worth it and I look
forward to one day meeting up
with these guys to ride.
SR: Since very few of us can pay
the bills riding, what do you do for
a day job?
EM: I am currently a grocery
department manager for one of the
largest retail companies in Alaska;
I’ve been with them for 14 years. It
definitely keeps me busy I typically
work six days a week so trying to
get out and ride on a perfect day is
pretty hard to do. What I do is save
all my vacation time throughout
the year for sledding and I take advantage of that the best I can, I will
be trying to do a bit of traveling
this season into British Columbia
and possibly a few other places that
I am still working on.
SR: What is it about Alaska that
keeps you calling it home? Any
plans to move in the near future?
EM: Alaska is full of adventures
and it’s been home since day one
for me and I don’t think I’ll ever
leave.
SR: Have you had the opportunity to ride outside of Alaska?
EM: Yes, this past season we had
a very poor snow year – it came extremely late in the season, so three
of us set out on a trip to Smithers,
B.C., to see if we could find some
good snow to ride. We did! It was
a blast. We spent a week there
exploring different areas, found a
bunch of technical treelines, steep
mountains and of course deep
snow.
SR: How did it compare?
EM: It’s hard to compare British
Columbia to Alaska. They are both
incredible places to ride and like I
said earlier I will be looking to do
more exploring in Alaska as well as
B.C. this year.
SR: What advice would you
give to local Alaskan kids who
want to pursue a career in the sled
industry?
EM: Don’t every give up. In the
sledding industry you are definitely
going to have many ups and downs
along the way, but if you stay positive and keep that progression going forward you’ll prevail. Another
major subject is safety. If you don’t
have the proper safety gear, invest
in some. You never know when it
might save you from really hurting
yourself.
PHOTOS COURTESY EMMETT MELTON
7
The guessing game
Winter weather will be cold and snowy
– or not – depending on the source
BY JOY SULLIVAN
hen asked to do a 2014-2015 weather prediction for SnowRider
I had to pause. At first I thought my boss had finally lost his
mind, or perhaps maybe I had somehow given him the impression I was more ‘gifted’ than I truly am? Well I may not be able to look
into a crystal ball and give you a good idea of what to expect this sled
season, but apparently there are sources out there who are brave enough
to attempt it. So here is what Alaska’s winter might just look like.
According to The Alaska Weather Group, Alaska will be under the
slight influence of El Nino and this means a very cold winter over the
northern half of the state and near normal for the southern portion.
Snowfall is projected to be above normal for most of the state but not
extreme snowfall. The most snow will fall in February and there will be a
mild and rather dry December.
The Farmers Almanac predicted winter temperatures will be above
normal, with January the coldest period. Precipitation and snowfall will
be below normal, with the snowiest periods in mid- to late-December
for the northern regions; mid-February and mid-March for east-central
and west-central regions; and mid- and late January for Southcentral.
Late January, the Aleutians will get their biggest accumulation and the
Panhandle will see its snow in early to mid-November, late December,
late January, and late March. The Almanac also predicted that April and
May will be warmer than normal, with near-normal precipitation and
less snowfall than normal.
I may not know what the future holds, but I do know that after last
winter’s dismal display Alaskans deserve a solid snowy winter.
W
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Part one continued from page 4
Legislature, ASSA, ASRA and other snowmobile groups, Gov.
Tony Knowles signed into law the Alaska Point of Sale Snowmobile
Registration program. This program itself was not fully fleshed out
at this time, but provided for administration by the Department of
Natural Resources, office of Outdoor Recreation. That department
was to administer the program within the parameters set by a volunteer advisory board that, at that time, was made up of a mixture
of nominees from the Alaska State Snowmobile Association, the
Alaska Snow Representatives Alliance and general snowmobile
advocates.
The DNR was selected for a couple reasons. They had the infrastructure to deal with State of Alaska requirements for grant
funding as well as mirroring the general snowmobile programs set
up in other successful snow-belt states. Our constitution requires
that all funds go directly into the General Fund and cannot be
earmarked for specific programs. Therefore DNR had to put this
item into its budgetary request for the year and the Legislature had
to approve it. The language in the original POS legislation included
a nonbinding agreement to return an equal amount of snowmobile
registration funding to DNR to support this program.
The Legislature has made good on its commitment each and
every year since the implementation of this agreement. Since the
1997 implementation of this program, tremendous changes have
obviously occurred in the program focus, the board makeup,
the DNR administration and support, as well as the community
requirements and requests from the program.
One of the largest changes within the program is the constant
turnover at DNR, with each director having separate visions of this
portion of his/her job responsibilities. Each director has complete
authority over the final product of this advisory board and we have
seen as many program visions as we have directors. Add in the
minor assignment of administration staff to carry out the director’s
vision and you begin to see where this program has the potential to
go completely off the rails.
Goals and final funding ratios are wholly in the hands of the administration, sometimes in direct conflict with the advisory board.
The advisory board makeup itself has been changed from a totally
snowmobile focused board to one that meets DNR’s vision of diversity. A result of that change is that there are several board members
whose recreation focus is not on snowmobiles. At present, these
members have added, more than subtracted, from the discussion
and we hope that continues.
A second and possibly more impactful change in the program is
the increased requests for funding from an ever-expanding constituency. Funding a statewide trails program for the same funding
amount that was received in 1997 is a painful reminder that the
one snowmobile program in the state (and the only self-funded
one, funded by us, for us) has not kept up with either inflation or
the anticipated increase in project requests. A functional and comprehensive statewide safety program, for example, would require
more than half of the total amount received.
Part 2 of this discussion-located below-, which centers on the
current situation for the SnowTRAC board and the immediate
challenges that snowmobilers face as they work to make this program more effective.
Part two: SNOWTRAC responsibilities
Statewide program is underfunded
and overburdened
BY KEVIN HITE
he Point of Sale Snowmobile Registration Program, internally known as SnowTRAC is administered by the State of
Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks
and Outdoor Recreation, Alaska State Trail Office. That’s quite a
mouthful. The director, Ben Ellis, has two natural resource specialists in the State Trail Office. There is some bleed-over of specialists
when dealing with grant administration, but the majority of the
program administration is done out of the two-person State Trails
office, including coordination of the grant program, scheduling of
the meetings, updating the operating procedures and more.
The Department of Outdoor Recreation has more than 3.3 million acres of responsibility.
In addition to the SnowTRAC program, the trails coordinator
is also tasked with the same duties regarding the Outdoor Recreational Trails Advisory Board, or more informally known as the
Recreational Trails Program. SnowTRAC has a citizen advisory
board to advise the director as to their suggestions on how the
snowmobile program funding should be distributed; the ORTAB
board has an extremely similar setup. Citizens appointed to give
suggestions and advice but not empowered to drive changes within
the program.
While SnowTRAC is funded solely by the registration of snow-
T
mobiles through our state appropriation process, ORTAB is a
federally funded program managed by each of the participating
states. Much of the federal funding comes from gasoline taxes that
are re-appropriated from DC to each state to be used to provide
reimbursable matching funds to develop and maintain recreational
trails and facilities for both motorized and nonmotorized trail use.
Environmental, safety and educational projects are also authorized. We mentioned that the total funding source for SnowTRAC
comes from registrations of snowmobiles in Alaska; this number
has been slated for issue at $250,000 per year. Last year’s ORTAB
grants totaled over $830,000. As most of you are better at math
than I am, you can guess which program garnished the majority
of the DNR’s administration time and effort. Add into that the coordinator’s responsibility for other trail programs (nonmotorized)
and you begin to see the pattern of time allocation that is a natural
result of too many tasks and not enough time.
There has been a historic cooperative effort between the
SnowTRAC and ORTAB boards that has allowed additional
funding to come into the SnowTRAC process from the ORTAB
program. Federal guidelines require ORTAB to allocate a portion
of their funding to motorized programs, and SnowTRAC was one
chosen to benefit. This program has seen its funding threatened
and is likely to be much more limited in its grant process as well
and the SnowTRAC board has correctly inferred that the additional funding is not going to be unending.
So, the bottom line is that the $250,000 that SnowTRAC has for
Part two continued on page 13
11
12
Part two continued from page 11
program administration (12 percent) and grooming, trail creation
and safety programs is getting squeezed by ever-increasing demands for new trails, expanded grooming programs, and increasing fuel prices. When you consider that there are more miles of
trails being groomed now than back when fuel was $2 a gallon, it is
a measure of how far these dollars are currently being stretched.
The 2013-2014 funding formula used by the SnowTRAC advisory
board reflected the reality of these impacts. The advisory board
scored each grooming proposal and funded 15 grants from Chena
State Recreation Area to the Trail mix projects in Juneau. Once
again, reflecting the realities of funding, the SnowTRAC board was
limited to allocating each grant at 75 percent of requested funding.
There were no advisory board recommendations to fund any safety
programs. Director Ellis was successful in transferring some funds
out of an unfulfilled grant to give safety a nod, but only a small one.
As you can see, the grant process had developed into primarily a trail-grooming program. That is not a bad thing in the whole
scheme of things. Survey after survey has indicated that the trail
grooming was where the majority of the public wants to see their
money go. While the grooming requirements have a signage portion that is considered pertinent to the safety of these trails, it was
the only concession to safety that was made.
While you can see how this has evolved, and taking into consideration that the current position giving grooming the lion’s share
of funding is popular with the snowmobile community, it leaves a
huge gap in the stated purpose of the Point of Sale program in re-
gards to the commitment to both a statewide trail system as well as
the biggest gap of all, a statewide safety program. Over the past few
years, different safety programs have been suggested and several
funded. They have all tended to be piecemeal programs that are
difficult to gauge the success rate for and have not had a long lasting
impact on safety.
When the subject of increased funding comes up, the majority of
the organized snowmobile groups in Alaska have expressed several
caveats:
• That increasing the funding source through registration
increases is supported by the majority of organized snowmobilers
who want a successful program directed at snowmobiles.
• That the increase in funding be applied directly to the programs
being administered with an absolute minimum of administration
fees being subtracted.
• That a Statewide trail system consisting of the tree trunk of
major trails supported by branches going off to local communities
is a preferred goal.
• That a Statewide Snowmobile Safety program is implemented as
a part of the registration increase. This program must be transferrable and applicable for the entire state, regardless of geographic
differences.
The third part in this series, located below, breaks down each of
those caveats and include a recommended path forward for each
one. The goal is, as always, to make the Alaska SnowTRAC Program
a success for each and every participant.
Part three: The future of Point of Sale
What we can do to help better fund
grooming and safety programs
BY KEVIN HITE
In parts 1 and 2 of our Point of Sale series, we have covered beginnings of the SnowTRAC program and traced some of its history
since 1997. We listed earlier challenges and attempted to track and
document the progress of this program throughout the legislative
and administrative processes that culminated in the program that
we have today.
Many challenges have been a part of this process, and they continue to affect the SnowTRAC program today.
There were formal meetings and informal discussions with literally hundreds of conversations that occurred throughout Alaska
concerning what to do with this program and which proposal, or
combinations of proposals would be most effective for the snowmobile community as a whole. Different parts of the state have
different priorities that each fought to include. Conversations with
legislators, governor’s staff and other concerned parties have had
very limited success in moving the DNR process in any of the
directions we want, so it was thought that it was time for the organized snowmobile community to propose and begin the driving
process to build a sustainable project that would have the greatest
support and give us the best chance for a successful outcome.
Below is the outline of what we feel snowmobilers expect and
will be willing to work toward to build a good snowmobile program in Alaska.
• Move the SnowTRAC Advisory Board away from DNR. Two
options have been explored and merit mention.
• Make the SnowTRAC Board a Governor’s Board under the
Governor’s Division of Boards and Commissions. This gives the
advisory board more authority to administer the grants according
to SOPs that are given short shrift under current DNR philosophy.
The legislative allocation of registration funds would flow through
this Governor’s board and be subject to the standards of other
Boards serving as Governor’s boards.
• Move the SnowTRAC Advisory Board completely away from
DNR and recreate the organization as a nongovernmental organization that operates under the authority of the organized snowmobile groups in the state. The appropriation of funds from the
general fund would be handled by this group rather than under the
administration of DNR. The director of DNR has publicly stated
that he has no problem turning over this program to a nongovernmental organization for administration and execution.
• Organize the new SnowTRAC board on the lines of a regional
representative board. Initial program organization should draw
representatives from the most active snowmobile clubs in each
region as well as an Alaska business representative. The New
SnowTRAC board would need to meet and work out the program
guidelines and processes, including the grant process and Standard
Operation Procedures. The initial thought process is that the first
edition of the new SnowTRAC board would be made up of the following representatives.
Part three continued on page 18
13
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14
BRIEFS
Polaris partners with Chris Brown,
Ride With Chris Brown Adventures
Polaris Snowmobiles announced that they will become the official
sponsor of Chris Brown’s snowmobile guiding and clinics services, Ride
With Chris Brown Adventures.
“We’re excited to start this partnership with Chris and his backcountry
adventures. We’re looking forward to getting even more western riders
on Polaris RMKs to see just how amazing these machines are,” said Andy
Kroll, brand manager for Polaris Snowmobiles. Beginning this season,
clients of Ride With Chris Brown Adventures will be able to experience
the mountains of British Columbia on Pro-RMKs and RMK Assaults.
“I am super excited to be partnering with Polaris,” Brown said in a
press release. “The Pro-RMK is the perfect machine to get you anywhere
you want to go in the BC backcountry especially in the tight and technical trees. And the RMK Assault is purposely built for free riding, huge
jumps and cliff drops.
“I can’t wait for the season to start and to get my riders out on these
machines. These sleds are the lightest and easiest to ride snowmobiles on
the market.”
Polaris will be working with Chris throughout the season, sharing
videos and pictures from his adventures and keeping riders up to date
with what’s going on in British Columbia this winter. To learn more, visit
www.ridewithchrisbrown.com.
BRP introduces two new Ski-Doo
backcountry experts
BRP has two new experts to offer advice on backcountry riding.
Jay Mentaberry, of Alpine, Wyo., and Jeremy Mercier of Grand Lake,
Colo., have been added to the outfit’s quiver of experts.
Mentaberry is an extreme backcountry rider and hill-climb racer. He
has been in seven films over the past four years and can be seen in the
new 509 film. He’s currently a low-voltage apprentice specializing in fire
alarm and security systems. Mentaberry was born in Elko, Nev. His family relocated to Alpine for the amazing terrain and outdoor possibilities.
Mentaberry’s major influencers are his father in life and sleds and Tom
Roby for snowmobiles and racing.
Mercier is a backcountry rider and instructor, avalanche certified
guide, sled assisted ski guide, snowboard guide, and former managing
partner of Vagabond Ranch. He currently owns August Building, specializing in high-performing homes. He grew up in northern Michigan, riding trails with his family since age 3. Mercier moved to Colorado 20 years
ago and hasn’t looked back since. He’s a 38-year-old husband and father
whose major influencers are his own father, Mike Duffy of Avalanche 1.
Bret and Tony from Ride Rasmussen Style and the locals around Grand
Lake are also influences on his career.
Polaris partners with Costco
Polaris Industries, Inc., announced that it will partner with the Costco
Auto Program, an auto-buying program specifically for Costco members,
as the exclusive promotional partner for its powersports division. Costco
members will be able to access special pricing and promotional incentives
on select Polaris products at participating dealers in the United States.
As part of this new partnership, the Costco Auto Program now
features different Polaris products on promotion throughout the year.
Products include snowmachines, off-road vehicles (Sportsman, Ranger
and RZR), Victory motorcycles and GEM electric vehicles. Specific
Polaris brand participation will vary by store and dealer geography. To
learn more about the Costco Auto Program and the variety of powersport
Continental-Featherlite.com
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BRIEFS
products available through the program visit www.CostcoAuto.com/
powersports.
Polaris opens manufacturing plant
in Poland
Polaris Industries, Inc., announced the grand opening of its new
manufacturing facility in Opole, Poland. The 345,000-square-foot facility will be the first Polaris plant dedicated to manufacturing Off-Road
Vehicles outside of North America.
Employee training has already begun at the Opole facility, which will
employ 300 people in 2015 and should begin shipments to customers in
the first quarter of 2015. The plant will produce approximately 35 different ORV vehicle models in 2015 and ship them to six subsidiaries and
more than 30 distributors in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA)
region. Opole will also house research and design for the Europe, Middle
East and Africa markets, allowing vehicles to be tailored to local needs.
Allowing Polaris to manufacture products locally for the EMEA
region, the Opole facility will improve the supply chain and help the
company keep up with strong demand for its wide range of products. The
facility will also focus on operational efficiency by incorporating LEAN
manufacturing processes such as 5S implementation and visual management methodology.
Ski-Doo and Burton team up
BRP’s Ski-Doo brand is partnering with Burton Snowboards to become
the official snowmachine for Burton Snowboards’ team of pro riders. The
two companies also agreed to co-develop products to suit the needs of
snowboarders and snowmobilers and Ski-Doo becomes sponsor of the
Burton Mountain Festival.
The emerging trend of riders using snowmachines to access the backcountry is on the rise, as people find it a more economical way to enjoy
their sport. Feedback from Burton and Ski-Doo pro riders will be used to
develop products and activities that are exciting and relevant for snowboarders and snowmobilers.
Ski-Doo introduces
TEC+ snowmachine boot
BRP is adding a new state-of-the-art snowmachine boot for 2015 with
the Ski-Doo TEC+ model joining its lineup. The boot is designed specifically for riders demanding the best in performance, fit and comfort, while
keeping feet dry and warm. When starting the project, BRP benchmarked
the best boots, making sure to use the best materials and technology
available to meet and exceed customer expectations. Instead of a bulky
boot like some on the market, the TEC+ boots are more of a traditional
boot size, so they can also be worn comfortably when not riding.
Some of the innovative features incorporated in the design include:
• abrasion and impact-resistant ice breaker toe piece;
• narrower shape at the achilles for more comfort and ankle support
with less bulk;
• cut-away rear collar for improved walking;
• larger area between tip of the boot and start of laces with inner foam
padding for comfort when using the sled’s toe holds;
• PoRon®XRD® impact protecting foam in tongue and shin area;
• honeycomb composite panels around the ankle for further abrasion
protection; and
• Kevlar-reinforced laces for abrasion resistance and long life.
The boots retail for $219.99.
Denali Alaskan Federal Credit Union Finances
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257-RATE (7283).
You Belong Here.
Visit www.denalifcu.org for current rates and terms.
16
*3.25% is lowest annual percentage rate (APR) available based upon
member qualifications and terms on new and used snowmachines,
motorcycles and ATVs. New money only; no refinancing of existing loans at
Denali Alaskan Federal Credit Union. No other discounts apply. This loan rate
is subject to change.
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17
Part three continued from page 13
SnowTRAC Board
Region
Fairbanks
Mat-Su
North Kenai
South Kenai
Copper Valley
Anchorage
Western/Bush Alaska
At Large
Business
Winter Trails Coordinator
Utilizing the 12.5 percent administration fee, the board will
select/hire a Winter Trails Coordinator.
The WTC (or whatever the SnowTRAC board names the
position) is needed to coordinate all snow trail programs in the
state.
This person will be seconded to the SnowTRAC board and
will be tasked with actively seeking coordinated funding to
expand statewide trail programs.
The WTC will coordinate the Statewide Safety Program.
More on this below:
• He/she will be tasked with preparing and distributing of
program reports to include performance and evaluation of
grants and pool funds. These reports will be submitted to the
SnowTRAC board for evaluation of continued funding.
• Other assignments as required.
Registration Fees
Once the new SnowTRAC Board has a year under their belts
to work out the SOPs and evaluation tools needed for program
process, they will request a raise in the annual registration fees
from $5 per year to $10 per year. This will obviously be tied into
the Legislature allocating the new amount from the general
fund.
Included in this registration process would be all On-Snow
Vehicles. Any ORV or ATV using a state funded trail would be
required to register.
Again, after a year’s performance history, the SnowTRAC
board and WTC would begin to seek matching state funding to
augment the program.
Alaska Statewide Snowmobile Safety Program
When the funding mechanism goes from the current funding levels to the secondary level mentioned in 4a, then an
automatic trigger would kick in to fund a statewide snowmobile safety program at approximately 20 percent of the funding
mechanism. At the proposed $10 per year, that would approach
$100,000 per year.
The Statewide Snowmobile Safety program would be one that
can be taught by local organizations, i.e. community schools,
Public Safety Officers, etc.
18
Initial selection by:
Fairbanks Snow Travelers
Curry Ridge Riders
Caribou Hills Cabin Hoppers
SNOMADS of Homer
Valdez Snowmobile Club
Anchorage Snowmobile Club
Alaska Dept of Transportation Nominee
Alaska State Snowmobile Association
All Club Nominations
The program would be customizable to account for regional
requirements. That could be one route for rural participants
who use snowmobile as primary transportation and another
route for recreational/backcountry participants.
The program could possibly be patterned after the Alaska
Boating Safety program or the Alaska Hunter Education program.
The intent would be to go out to bid to organizations that
would design and deliver the type of program that can be
replicated without specific organizational support. Basically
SnowTRAC would initially purchase the program and then
continue support and distribution of the safety program statewide.
Well, there you have it. A first stab at creating an Alaska
Snowmobile Advisory Council that would be responsive to
snowmobilers and responsible for the creation of a program
that is able to grow and meet the ever expanding requirements
of Alaskan snowmobilers. The new SnowTRAC board would be
able to set a direction for this program that reflects the aggressive nature of snowmobilers in Alaska. Stabilization of the program would be a tremendous benefit. No more changing DNR
staff season to season, no more uncertainty that the program
will careen from point to point depending on outside pressures
from nonsnowmobile interests.
The New SnowTRAC board would need to get together and
solidify these draft recommendations. Fortunately the existing
SnowTRAC SOPs are close enough to modify without reinventing the wheel. Much of the footwork is in place, but obviously
not being utilized. These organizational procedures should be
in place prior to legislative approval of this change.
The next step is up to you. If this type of change in our program is the direction that you want to go, then you need to get
with your officers in your club and engage them in the progression of going to our legislators in order to make this change.
We will utilize the Snow Rider to advocate for the changes that
we feel need to be made. Utilize your organizational voice to
begin this process in order for us to be in front of the Legislature this next season to make these changes. Time to make this
happen.
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20
Alaska State Snowmobile Association
OFFICERS
President & Southcentral Rep.
Kevin Hite, Anchorage
522-6373
Vice President
Vacant
Treasurer
Brant Grifka, Eagle River
694-3458
Membership
Cindy Hite, Anchorage
522-6373
BOARD MEMBERS
Central Representative
Glenn Swan, Eagle River
694-8747
Western Representative
Vacant
ASSA Convention
& Trade Show
522-6373
Public Relations
Vacant
Alaska Snow Rider
John Woodbury, Anchorage
677-2900
Southeast Representative
Vacant
Raffle
522-6373
Interior Representative
Stephen E. Enochs, Fairbanks
452-5845
Access Chair
Joe Gauna, Anchorage
243-6776
Kenai Peninsula Representative
Vacant
Industry Representative
Bruce Friend, Anchorage
349-8575
Business Representative
Nick Olzenak, Anchorage
277-1741
A uniquely
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COMMITTEES
CONTACT
ASSA Hotline: 566-0210
ASSA Hotline Toll Free:
• Hand-knitted by over 200
Eskimo knitters
1-888-825-7669
ASSA Web Site:
www.aksnow.org
STATEWIDE CLUBS
ALASKA MOTOR MUSHERS
PO Box 871753 • Wasilla, AK, 99687
Fax: 376-7966
President: Wayne Devore
FAIRBANKS SNOW TRAVELERS
P.O. Box 80053
Fairbanks, AK 99708-0053
479-4933
ALASKA TRAILBLAZERS
P.O. Box 36 • Tok, AK 99780
883-7669
JUNEAU SNOWMOBILE CLUB
P.O. Box 32882 • Juneau, AK 99803
723-8948
ANCHORAGE SNOWMOBILE CLUB
P.O. Box 232196 • Anchorage, AK 99523
Hotline: 566-0272
anchoragesnowmobileclub.com
KODIAK SNO BRUINS
Box 3492 • Kodiak, AK 99615
486-3828
AURORA INTERNATIONAL INC.
P.O. Box 520581 • Big Lake, AK 99652
892-6372
LAKE LOUISE SNOWMACHINE CLUB
HC01 Box 1684B
Glennallen, AK 99588
Corky Mathews, 250-2098
CARIBOU HILLS CABIN HOPPERS
P.O. Box 375 • Clam Gulch, AK 99568
252-1782
MAT-SU MOTOR MUSHERS
P.O. Box 876135
Wasilla, AK 99687-6224
CHEECHAKO SKI BENDERS
P.O. Box 834 • Kenai, AK 99611
283-7664
MAT-SU VINTAGE SNOWMACHINE
RACERS CLUB
Email: [email protected]
Web site: matsuvintageracers.com
President: Craig Clayton, 232-7518
CHILKAT SNOWBURNERS INC.
P.O. Box 870 • Haines, AK 99827
Diane Lapham, 766-2503
COPPER COUNTRY
SNOWMOBILE CLUB
HC 01 Box 300 • Gakona, AK 99586
822-3440
CURRY RIDGE RIDERS
P.O. Box 13218 • Trapper Creek, AK 99683
Hotline: 689-7669 or 352-3669
President: Randy Crosby
e-mail: [email protected]
website: www.curryridgeriders.com
DELTA SNOW SEEKERS
P.O. Box 137
Delta Junction, AK 99737
Tom Waggoner, 895-4196
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P.O. Box 2132 • Seward, AK 99664
224-3537
SNOMADS, INC.
P. O. Box 3646 • Homer, AK, 99603
[email protected]
www.snomadsonline.org
VALDEZ SNOWMACHINE CLUB
P.O. Box 3689 • Valdez, AK 99686
Laura Sax, 835-2373
Downtown Location • Corner of 6th & H
Parking available on H Street driveway
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604 H Street, Dept. CO, Anchorage, AK 99501
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21
3/8/12 2:13 PM
SAFETY MATTERS
Debra McGhan
BCA is the industry standard for solid beginner and intermediate user
models that are economical and simple to learn and use. COURTESY DEBRA MCGHAN
Get the gear
Don’t be left unprepared in avalanche-prone backcountry
BY DEBRA MCGHAN
Ask any educator who teaches avalanche awareness, “What is the most
important thing people need to know when traveling in mountain terrain in
the winter?” and they will likely say: “Get the training, Get the forecast, Get
the gear.” They also might say something like, “The most important tool in
the backcountry is your head. Educate it and use it.”
So what if you’re out there having a great time when suddenly snowballs
hit the fan, tumble down the mountain and everything goes wrong despite
your very best effort?
You better have the gear. That means at the least an avalanche transceiver,
probe, shovel, food, water and first aid.
Once you’ve decided to gear up, go to the store or search online and you
will find a variety of options to choose from. If you’re new to all this you
might ask, “So how is a snowrider to know which transceiver, probe or
shovel should I pick?”
At the 2014 International Snow Science Workshop, a scholarly conference
of the best and brightest snow safety professionals from around the world, I
asked everyone I could that very question.
The answers I got were all over the map. Everyone had their top picks and
some loved several different offerings. Everyone agreed that transceivers are
all about survival. If you get buried and want a chance of being found, you
better be wearing one of these.
For a bare bones, low-cost basic that is simple to use and appeals to beginners, most said that Back Country Access (BCA) Tracker has been their
go-to model. Others thought the features were too limited and that despite
the fact they now have a Tracker, Tracker II and Tracker III, the only thing
that has really changed is the packaging.
I checked out the Tracker III, which looks more like a smart phone, and
found it has features like a triple antenna (also found on their Tracker II,)
and multiple burial functions that are simple to use. From personal experience I found the Tracker II a bit frustrating because it was not as intuitive
as the original tracker to operate and the on/off switch kept sticking on the
training fleet we used in our classes. According to representatives for the
company, that problem has been resolved and they are always happy to
exchange or repair if anything goes wrong.
My first introduction to the Tracker III was in the spring of 2014 during
a community ‘Beacons and Eggs’ awareness program in Valdez. We had
about 50 people show up and all the volunteers were super busy. One family
22
Mammut offers the Barryvox Element and Plus which again are midrange models for cost and functions. The Element is the beginner’s
model and the Plus has added features for advanced users and
professionals. COURTESY DEBRA MCGHAN
showed up late and we didn’t have time to train them to use the transceiver
before the beacon search began. I just handed their seven-year-old the
Tracker III, showed her how to turn it on and said, ‘try to get this to the lowest number.’
Less than three minutes later I watched her following the transceiver
signal straight to the buried Easter Bunny. All the Trackers provide a simple,
reliable and economical choice in avalanche transceivers. Just be sure you
bring extra batteries as these tend to be power hogs.
Another solid model for those starting out is the Ortovox Zoom, which
is just a bit more expensive than the BCA
Tracker. It also has a very simple operation
with just one switch for on/off and search.
This transceiver, like all of the Ortovox
brand transceivers, have added features like
the triple antenna, motion sensor for faster
searching no matter what the orientation of
the victim, and an automatic revert switch
if the searcher is caught in a secondary slide,
turning from search to transmit mode after
The Ortovox 3-plus is a
120 seconds. All the Ortovox transceivversatile transceiver with
ers have multi-burial features, a power
management system and a Recco device loads of added features that
work well for beginners and
installed.
Ryan Johnston, the U.S. Ortovox gen- high end users.
COURTESY DEBRA MCGHAN
eral manager, says Ortovox is the leader in all about being found technology.
In addition to the Zoom, Ortovox offers the 3-Plus, which makes multiburial searches much easier, and the super feature reach pro model the S-1;
just be prepared to spend more. And in the case of the S-1, spend a lot more
time learning to use it.
During the Beacons and Eggs training in Valdez, another participant
brought his new 3-plus Ortovox and arrived at the target just as the little girl
with the Tracker III. He said this gave him a lot of confidence because his
tech skills are somewhat lacking. “This was super simple to use and easy to
follow,” he told me. “I really like my choice.”
Black Diamond recently acquired the Pieps Brand transceivers and they
currently offer a great deal on a full sports package. This includes a shovel
and probe and the DSP Sport model transceiver, which has many of the features of other basic models such as the triple antenna, direction and distance
indicator and intelligent transmitter, but this one is also upgradeable to the
latest firmware so it won’t become outdated.
Their DSP Pro model has some cool features like the multi-burial function that allows you to see all buried victims and their location on the screen
at once and then a mark feature to show victims found so you can quickly
move on to the next person. It has a range of about 60 meters versus 30-50 in
the majority of other models and is also conservative on power.
Finally the Mammut Barryvox is the last one I checked out. Again they
offer two models, the Element and Pulse. Both of these models also feature
the triple antenna and the Pulse is simple to operate with minimal instruction. The Pulse has an added feature I didn’t find in any of the other models
and that’s its dual digital, analog option. The big advantage to analog is the
extended range of operation (70-90 meters.) With analog you also have the
ability to plug in an ear jack so you can hear the analog tone even when
searching in a noisy environment (such as a crowded search with helicopters, lots of searchers and dogs.) It takes some time to learn to use this feature
so not a great choice for
recreational users.
No matter which model
you opt for, they all communicate with each other. Just
make sure you know how
to use the one you pick, take
a class or come to a beacon
practice site such as Alyeska
Resort in Girdwood so you’ll
feel comfortable with your
equipment long before you
might need to actually use it.
You’ll also want to at the least
include a shovel and probe in
your arsenal of gear and all of
the companies mentioned also
have those tools available as
well, such as the special Black
Diamond is offering.
You can also go further and
add an airbag, an inflatable
device used to keep you on the
surface to avoid burial. ABS
airbags feature the dual bag system and is considered top of the line based on
function and price. But Black Diamond and BCA offer low-cost models that
are a great option for recreational skiers and boarders.
What ever you decide, make sure you have the gear you need in the event
you are caught in a situation that demands the right tools. You can learn
more or link to the companies at UrockSafety.com.
23
SURVIVE TO RIDE AGAIN!
TEAM CC, YOUR LOCAL POWDER KEG DEALER
Powder Keg has once again listened to your input and now offers
a new “Life Kit” storage box. The new lid design will allow our
lightweight, all-aluminum shovel to snap onto the top of the lid
and be locked in place by a rotating aluminum disk. This new lid
also has a 16” folding saw, a LED flashlight and a complete fire
starting kit built right in.
Powder Keg took special efforts to keep a smooth-shaped exterior with no hang-up points that could snag a rider or his clothing.
As with all Powder Keg boxes and fuel kegs, these new items are
built to last so you can expect to keep them to move from sled to
sled over the years!
You can now order your favorite low-profile storage box with
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24
MECHANIC’S MINUTE
Prepare sleds now for full
riding season ahead
Mechanic: Zach Johnston
Shop: Peninsula Powersports, Soldotna
Contact information: www.peninsulapowersports.com, 907262-4444
Dear Mechanic’s Minute: What are the things I should be
checking as I bring my sled out of storage after a long summer
and prepare it for riding?
– Not too good with tools
Dear Not too good: It’s getting to be that time of year
again when we start pulling our sleds out of the shed and
shaking the dust off the covers. To insure a trouble free
beginning to your riding season a few critical preseason
inspections should be done to catch any potential problems.
I personally like to start in the front of the sled and work my
way back.
First inspect your front suspension components for any
signs of damage from the previous year and take a quick
look at the front shock absorbers to make sure you don’t see
any signs of leaking oil. Next, open the hood and check the
drive chain tension in the chain case and drain and fill the
chain case with fresh fluid per the manufactures specs.
Move over to the other side of the sled and use compressed air to clean the belt dust out of your primary and
secondary clutches. While you’re there, look for abnormal
wear on the weights and rollers in the primary clutch and
check to see if it’s time to replace a worn drive belt.
For the last thing under the hood, install a fresh set of
spark plugs.
Now move to the rear of the snowmachine and inspect the
track slides, check the rear shocks for leakage and check the
track tension and alignment. Lastly, walk around the whole
machine and put a few pumps of grease into each grease
zerk to push out any built-up moisture.
Start the year off by inspecting these few simple things
and you can prevent unwanted break downs and let you
know if there is something major that you may to bring it to
your local dealer for.
Zach Johnston
“It’s getting to be that time
of year again when we start
pulling our sleds out of the
shed and shaking the dust off
the covers.”
— ZACH JOHNSTON
If you have a question for a snowmachine mechanic, send
an email to [email protected]. She will find a
qualified mechanic to answer your question. Questions are
due by the first of each month for inclusion in the next issue.
25
Your Winter Recreation Destination!
On Fish Lakes Creek
• New Game Room!
• 9’ Billards
• Superb Food
• Deluxe Cabins
• Beer & Wine
• Gas • Sauna
www.northwoodslodge.net
907.354.3374
Google GPS:N61.934665 W150.973617
1
3
26
Don’t let your sled put you in the poor house. Proper maintenance and living within your means is the best recipe for snowmachining success.
Sled poor, adventure proud
Follow these tips to keep your weekend outings going
BY JOY SULLIVAN
It’s no secret that riding is expensive. Unless you are an oilfield bachelor, you most likely have to abide by a budget. Here are few tips to help
you avoid becoming sled poor.
BUYING NEW VS. USED
It’s really personal preference. In Alaska, it’s not hard to find a used
mountain sled in great condition with low miles. When buying a used
sled, you really need to be mechanically savvy – not just being able to
test compression of the motor but to be able to assess the overall wear
and tear of the sled in question. Sometimes the mod sleds are the most
appealing but it is a risk you take purchasing a pimped out ride. A lot
of times the modifications will prove to be your biggest mistake. It is
way better to purchase a stock sled and modify yourself. When buying
new, you have the advantage and security of knowing exactly what
you are getting and a warranty to back it up. Although you may have
the occasional hassle of recalls and mandatory checkups, overall those
inconveniences are minor in comparison. The best advice to anyone
looking to purchase a sled is to stay within your budget and don’t get in
a hurry.
THE TRUTH ABOUT FINANCING YOUR TOYS
Cash purchases are the smartest. If you can’t afford to pay for a
snowmachine up front it might be a good indicator it’s not within your
means. With that being said, there are a lot of people who choose not to
wait till they have cash in hand so just be aware of what you’re getting
into when you finance. The average interest rate for ATVs and snowmachines is 9 -13 percent depending on your credit, and you may be
able to negotiate an even lower rate if you have excellent credit. So, for
example, if you purchase a $12,000 sled at 9 percent interest, over four
years you will pay $2,333.76 more than if you had paid cash.
FUEL CONSERVATION
With outrageous and ever-rising fuel costs, it makes it hard for
27
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IN ALA
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2009, 20 , 2014
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PHYS
FAMILY
Immediate Care for Minor Injuries
Same Day Appointments
Walk-Ins Welcome
Radiology/Diagnostics
Occupational Health
Childrenʼs Care
General Medical Care
photo courtesy of www.mountainbikingzane.wordpress.com
(907) 279-8486 | Open Weekdays 7:30 am-6:00 pm | Open Saturdays 9am-4pm
2211 East Northern Lights Blvd. Anchorage, AK 99508 | www.mpfcak.com
anyone who has to travel to their favorite riding spots. A lot of Alaska
riders have to travel quite a ways to get to their favorite riding spots. A
good way to alleviate the pinch fuel has on your budget is to car-pool.
No need to take more trucks and trailers than necessary. Another
great idea is to make a weekend of it. Camping out in the parking lot
may save you hundreds, and give you extra riding time. If you’re lucky
enough to have a nearby hotel you may be able to share the cost with a
group and avoid camping out.
BASIC SLED MAINTENANCE
This can really add up, so pay close attention. Going over your sled
after every ride can save you tons. There are way too many people who
run their sleds all season without ever checking them over in between
runs. Those are the guys who often end up getting towed out after an
unnoticed oil leak turned into a seized-up sled. An affordable fix can
turn into a total loss quick. If you have a new sled, make sure you keep
up with your warranty work. Regular oil changes and keeping your
sled properly lubricated is imperative. Set time aside for your ride.
GEAR: CHEAP SOMETIMES COSTS MORE
When it comes to your base layer and shells it’s important to do your
research. That tag dangling off the coat may seem high but if that coat
comes with a good warranty and rave reviews it just may be worth it. A
lot of things can go amuck when out riding and you don’t want to get
caught in a situation where you’re stranded in the elements and second
guessing that bargain brand coat. Same goes for your socks, boots,
gloves, and various other gear.
TO INSURE OR NOT INSURE: THAT IS THE QUESTION
Do your research. Compare prices. If you have a loan on a sled ,most
likely they require proof of insurance (another reason you may not
want to finance your toys, as you may not have room in the budget for
a loan payment and insurance payment). I recommend that if you have
a new sled, even if it’s not financed, you should insure it. One mistake
can cost you your season. If you have an older sled it may not be as
imperative. Depending on how much money you have invested into
your ride, it is usually wise to insure your investment in the event it gets
damaged or stolen.
PIMP MY RIDE
Don’t get me wrong, the aesthetics of a sick sticker kit and some
powder coating to make things pop is awesome, but if you’re already
on a tight budget those are nonessentials that can easily be taken off
the wish list until you can afford them. Who cares if your sled looks
cool if you can’t afford the gas to get you to the mountains? The sled
industry has tons to offer not only in aesthetics for your ride but also
performance. If your budget doesn’t have as much wiggle room, you
may want to opt for less expensive enhancements such as professional
clutching or suspension upgrades. Bottom line is, a brand-new stock
sled doesn’t need many upgrades. If your sled is under warranty make
sure you follow the warranty rules and regulations, because some
upgrades will void your warranty. So you may have to wait to take your
stock sled to the next level until your warranty is up.
It is easy to dive into this sport head first and find yourself drowning in a sea of debt within no time. Even once you have everything
you need to ride, the activity itself adds up every trip you take to the
mountains. One of the best ways to avoid becoming Sled poor is not to
keep up with the Joneses. Comparing sleds, gear and skill is pointless.
Everyone is in a different place. Be content with what you can afford,
and focus on improving your skills as a rider vs. upgrading your sled.
It’s really all about choices, so be wise and always do your research.
NON-CURRENT
CLEARANCE SALE
GOING ON NOW!
2015s
NOW IN STOCK
Call for Price and
Selection!
WWW.AKCYCLECENTER.COM
*On approved Polaris purchases. Minimum Payments required. Offer may not be combined with certain other offers, is subject to change and may be extended or terminated without further notice. Minimum Amounts Financed, Interest Charges,
and penalties for accounts non current, may apply. Subject to credit approval. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. Other financing offers are available. See your local dealer for details. Financing promotions
void where prohibited. The 3 Year Factory Warranty offer consists of a standard 1 year factory warranty plus an additional 2 years of additional factory warranty coverage. The additional factory warranty offer is subject to a $50.00 deductible
per visit after the first year. All rebates are paid to the dealer. Factory Authorized Clearance offers are effective on all new 2012 - 2015 Polaris snowmobiles purchased from a participating Polaris dealer between 8/7/14 and 9/30/14. Polaris
2015 snowmobiles that were ordered under the SnowCheck program do not qualify. See your local dealer for details. Professional rider on a closed course. Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt
maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never Drink and reide. (C) 2014 Polaris Industries Inc.
NOW YOU’RE!
GOOD TO GO
SALES • SERVICE • PARTS • ACCESSORIES
4908 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, Alaska
Tuesday-Saturday 9:30am-6pm
279-9478
1-800-478-4555
29
Calendar
ALASKA SNOWRIDER EVENTS LIST
C. WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY
Post your snowmachine events on Alaska’s snowmachine calendar, www.ridealaska.com!
November
1: COMPEAUS TR AIL
10 a.m., Fairbanks Snow Travelers
3 - 5: FAI R BAN KS
AVALAN CH E
Safety Series
University of Alaska Fairbanks
5: JUNEAU SNOWMOBILE
CLUB MEETING
7 p.m., Hangar Bar
6: BOARD MEETING
6 p.m., Fairbanks Snow Travelers
6: ALASKA AVALANCHE
SUMMIT
BP Energy Center, Anchorage
7: SO UTH CE NTRAL
AVALAN CH E
W O R KSH O P
Alaska Pacific University,
Anchorage
8: CARIBOU HILLS CABIN
HOPPERS KICKOFF PARTY
6:30-9 p.m., Soldotna Sports
Center
19: GENERAL
MEMBERSHIP MEETING
7 p.m., Location TBA, Fairbanks
Snow Travelers
19: GENERAL MEMBERSHIP
MEETING
7 p.m., IBEW Hall, Anchorage
Snowmobile Club
December
13: AMMC 120 RACE & SNO-X
Weather Pending, Details to be
posted soon
20: AMMC X-COUNTRY RACE
Weather Pending, Details to be
posted soon
January
4: MAT-SU VINTAGE
SNOWMACHINE CLUB
FIRST RACE
Race format is Oval, located at the
Mat-Su Resort
NOVEMBER 2014
FIND EV ENT SP ECIFICS
AND U P DATES O N THESE
CLU B AND EV ENT WEBSITES:
Alaska Motor Mushers
Club: www.ammcracing.org
Anchorage
Snowmobile Club: www.
anchoragesnowmobileclub.com
Alaska Trailblazers
Snowmobile Club: Located
in Tok, online at Facebook
Arctic Man: www.arcticman.
com
Caribou Hills Cabin
Hoppers: www.akchch.org
Curry Ridge Riders: www.
curryridgeriders.com
Fairbanks Snow Travelers:
www.snowtravelers.org
Homer Snomads: www.
snomadsonline.org
Lake Louise Snowmachine
Club, the Wolf Pack: www.
lakelouisesnowmachineclub.
com
Oxygen & Octane: www.
oxygenandoctane.com
Tired Iron Vintage Races:
www.fairbankstirediron.org
Trek Over the Top: www.
trekoverthetop.com
Valdez Snowmachine Club:
www.valdezsnowmachineclub.
com
Willow Winter Carnival:
www.waco-ak.org
Don’t see your event yet?
Submit snowmachine related
events to ridealaska.com.
WE RENT
TRAILERS
ENCLOSED
FLAT BEDS
2 PLACE
4 PLACE
.AKHAUL.COM
WWW
907.306.9876
30
Your Guide
to Motorsports
Come along on a full-throttle ride
across Alaska’s wildest backcountry
during the 2015 Iron Dog Race.
The Iron Dog is billed as the world's
longest, toughest snowmachine race,
and the rugged miles are measured in
horsepower, raw grit and memories.
year’s event runs from Big Lake
This yea
to Fairbanks and will prove to be as
rugged and rousing as ever.
While the race may be tough, it’s easy
to become an Iron Dog supporter by
advertising in the only official guide.
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AND PREPAY DISCOUNTS!
• AD DEADLINE DECEMBER 16 TH , 2014
Locally owned and operated!
6921 Brayton Drive, Suite 207 Anchorage, Alaska 99507 (907) 677-2900 / Fax: (907) 677-2901 [email protected]
www.ridealaska.com www.alaskaadventuremedia.com
17 Locations Statewide
1-800-PAIN FREE
Now Open In
ANCHORAGE (907) 27-REHAB (277-3422)
BETHEL (907) 543-7601
BARROW (907)852-3099
DUTCH HARBOR (907) 581-2204
FAIRBANKS (907) 451-7246
31
ALASKA STATE SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION
P.O. BOX 240405, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA 99524-0405
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT #936
ANCHORAGE, AK
A S S A 2 013 -14 M E M B E R S H I P F O R M
Alaska
Snowmobile
Alaska State
State Snowmobile
Association
Association
PURPOSE
AND OBJECTIVES
PURPOSE AND
OBJECTIVES
2011-2012
Goals
2013-2014Goals
Goals
2011-2012
To
To encourage
theencourage
formation of the
clubsformation
statewide andof clubs statewide and
goal for this season is The
increasing
#1 goal for this season is increasing
promote good
Sportsmanship,
and responsible safeThe
promote
goodsafe
Sportsmanship,
and#1responsible
well asour member numbers as well as
use of snowmobiles
use of snowmobilesboth our member numbers as both
participating clubs around Alaska. We will
participating clubs around Alaska. We will
Sponsor enactment of favorable regulations
beregulations
actively pursuing new board members
Sponsor
of favorable
concerning ownership
andenactment
use of snowmobiles
be actively pursuing new board members
represent a wide range of snowmobile
concerning ownership and use ofwho
snowmobiles
who represent a wide range of snowmobile
activities and regions.
Cooperate with Public Land Use Regulatory
Agencies whileCooperate
reserving thewith
right to
opposeLand Use Regulatory
activities and regions.
Public
regulations deemed
unfair
or
not
in
the
best
Agencies while reserving the right
to will
oppose
ASSA
be participating in legal and
interests
of our members
regulations
deemed unfair or not
in
the
best
advisory boards that seek to develop
ASSAawill be participating in legal and
interests
our members
statewide trails system.
Maintain a legislative committee
to serve of
members
advisory boards that seek to develop a
statewide
P.O. BOX 240405
Anchorage, AK 99524-0405
P.O. BOX 240405
Anchorage,
AK 99524-0405
1-888-8AK-SNOW
(1-888-825-7669)
566-0210
1-888-8AK-SNOW
(1-888-825-7669)
566-0210
President
Kevin Hite
www.aksnow.org
President
Kevin Hite
statewide trails system.
Maintain a legislative committee to serve members
We will also continue to be the main legal
resource and information clearinghouse for
We will also continue to be the main legal
the ongoing battle
Support the use of snowmobiles pertaining
to anfor statewide access for
Support local search and rescue efforts
motorized winter recreation inresource
Alaska andand information clearinghouse for
individual's livelihood.
will develop constituent relationships
that battle for statewide access for
the ongoing
Recognize competition as an important part of
benefit
our
organization.
Supportand
local
search
recreational Snowmobiling
support
such and rescue efforts
motorized winter recreation in Alaska and
Support the use of snowmobiles pertaining
to an
statewide
individual's livelihood.
competition.
will develop constituent relationships that
ASSA will
continue
Recognize competition as an important
part
of to monitor and offer
The Associationrecreational
treasures the natural
beauty of
benefit our organization.
Snowmobiling
and input
support
such
to the
Sno-Trac Board concerning
Alaska and values its natural resources; therefore
the allocation of Point of Sale Revenues.
we will promote the protection of thecompetition.
environment
ASSA will continue to monitor
from irrevocable harm.
The Association treasures the natural beauty of
Alaska and values its natural resources; therefore
we will promote the protection of the environment
from irrevocable harm.
and offer
input to the Sno-Trac Board concerning
the allocation of Point of Sale Revenues.
The Alaska State Snowmobile Association is not liable for personal Insurance. Therefore, I hereby release and discharge ASSA, its agents, and /or officers from any and all claims,
demands, actions, judgements and executions which the below signed now have or may have in the future for themselves or for the below signed heirs, executors, administrators or assign
for any and all personal injuries and property damage which have been caused by or may arise out of the participation of myself or my family in any ASSA Sponsored event. I, the belowsigned, hereby acknowledge that have read this release and understand all of its terms. I execute it voluntarily with full knowledge of its significance.
www.aksnow.org
Signature
Date:
Recreational Snowmobiling is being threatened in Alaska. T o retain access to your favorite places to ride and in order to represent snowmobilers' rights on statewide issues in
Juneau, we need your support. We encourage every Alaskan Snowmobiler to:
•
•
•
Join Your Local Club- Be represented on Local Issues
Join your State Association- Be represented on State Issues
Register your snowmobile-it's the Law. These are the only numbers Federal, State and Local governmental officials will use for funding and access issues.
An ASSA membership provides each Alaskan Snowmobiler with:
•
•
•
•
A subscription to the Nationally acclaimed Alaskan Snow Rider!
Eligibility for membership with Denali Alaska Federal Credit Union (Financing for that Snowmobile or Tow Vehicle!)
Insurance privileges through American Income Life
Representation on Statewide issues.
New Membership
Renewal Membership
Name: ______________________________________________
Address: _____________________________________________
City: ___________________State: _____________Zip: _____________
Phone: __________________E-Mail___________________________
____Regular Membership-$20 per Season (October 1—Sept 30)
____Family Membership- (up to 4 People)- $35 per year
____Snowmobile Club-$50 Per Year
____ASSA Business Membership-$100 per Year

Point of Sale Southeast sensation

Transcription

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