A two-way street

Dear sir:
I have been following the snowmobile debate that has been going on in this paper for the last three weeks, starting with Mr. Sundmark’s letter, followed by Mr. Hymer’s reply, and then Ms. Malbrank’s compelling argument.
I would just like to bring up a point not mentioned by any of the other three and that is just what an enjoyable activity snowmobiling is in Northwestern Ontario–and the wonderful opportunities it affords those of us who are lucky enough to participate in it.
From seeing a wild horse on Rainy Lake to visiting the White Otter Castle to a short trip into Minnesota to see the sloping bar floor of the Kettle Falls Hotel, these are just a few of the things easily available to us on a snowmobile.
Basically, snowmobiling is a social activity that gives you the opportunity to meet some of the nicest people you could ever hope to come across.
Mr. Sundmark should consider himself lucky to be in a business where he can make a living dealing with–and providing services to–some of the nicest people around. And the thing to remember is that snowmobile clubs, and snowmobilers in general, need those businesses and services just as much as the businesses need snowmobilers.
It is definitely a two-way street.
I understand the economics of snowmobiling–that it is a $980 million/year business in Ontario–but I also know the whole trail system the business runs on is volunteer driven and paid for with the dollars raised by the sales of trail permits.
I have heard all the complaints like “Where’s the groomer?” “Why isn’t this trail groomed?” and “Why isn’t this lake staked?” I could go on and on but would prefer to challenge those people to get involved with their local club and stake that lake, do a shift in the groomer, clear a little brush off the trail, and most of all–proudly display their trail permit on their sled.
If you get involved with your club, you may just have the time of your life. I know I have.
Sincerely,
Lyle Dennis, Gov.,
OFSC District 17