Boondocker - Spring, 2012 - Great Lakes Four Wheel Drive

G r e a t
L a k e s
F o u r
W h e e l
D r i v e
The Boondocker
INSIDE
S u p p o r t
t h e
S p o r t !
Promoting and Defending Responsible Recreation
www.glfwda.org
A s s o c i a t i o n
-Two Tracker’s Forest Clean-up
-Michigan Wheelers D.I. Invasion
-Training, Training , Training
-Jeeping for a Cure
-UMPA Tour
-Dirt Riot
-More!
Spring 2012
Executive Board
President
Bob DeVore
president@glfwda.org
Vice President
Paul Hittie
2444 E. Hill Rd.
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
810-241-2482
vicepresident@glfwda.org
Recording Secretary
Carl Jarema
secretary@glfwda.org
Treasurer
David Smith
treasurer@glfwda.org
Membership Secretary
Pamela East
membershipsecretary@glfwda.org
Additional Contacts
Associate Membership Secretary
Position Available
amsecretary@glfwda.org
On the cover:
Unloading trash from the Manistee
Forest at the Two Trackers Annual
Clean-up
On the rear cover:
At The Mounds ORV park on the
M.O.R.E. Tour in June
Great Lakes Four Wheel Drive
Association
Great Lakes Four Wheel Drive Association Incorporated is a noncommercial association of four wheel drive enthusiasts organized
for the promotion of interest in maintaining
closer contact between four wheel drive clubs
and individuals, to promote cooperation, friendship, conservation, ecology, and to preserve
access to public lands through wise management policies. It shall also provide a network
of communication in the event of disasters or
emergencies, and for the advancement of four
wheel drive awareness, the representation of
four wheel drive interests in legislative affairs,
and for maintenance of fraternalism by encouraging a high standard of conduct.
GLFWDA is an incorporated association,
without capital stock, chartered under the laws
of the State of Michigan, and is an exempt organization under Section 501(c)(7) of the Internal Revenue Service Code of 1986. Its affairs are governed by the Executive Board of
Directors, whose voting members are elected
every two years by the Directors of each member club. The officers are elected or appointed
by the Directors. The Association is noncommercial, and no one who could gain financially
from the shaping of its affairs is eligible for
membership on the Executive Board.
A bona fide interest in four wheeling is
the only essential qualification of membership;
ownership of a four wheel drive vehicle is not
a prerequisite. Membership is granted to anyone within the United States and Canada.
Membership Inquires should be directed
to the Membership Secretary. Inquires of a general nature should be addressed to the Corresponding Secretary or a member of the Executive Board. Articles for publication should be
sent to the Boondocker Editor.
Additional Contacts
Land Use Committee Chair
Pat Brower
231-865-1345
landuse@glfwda.org
Four Wheel Drive Awareness Training
Craig Feusse
training@glfwda.org
Trail Ride Committee Chair
Al Koopman
trc@glfwda.org
Boondocker Editor
Ed Schroeder
editor@glfwda.org
Public Relations Chair
Wayne Rynbrand
prchair@glfwda.org
Webmaster
Kevin Bentz
1627 Eureka Rd.
Wyandotte, MI 48192
734-281-2366
Webmaster@glfwda.org
Advertising Rates
Full Page (1 side) – $75.00 per issue
1/2 page – $50.00 per issue
1/4 page – $35.00 per issue
Business Card Size – $15.00 per issue
Classified Ad – $2.00 per issue
Stories and articles are submitted from various Association
Members. The views and opinions expressed in the stories and
articles within are solely those of the individual, or individuals
who submitted said stories or articles. Great Lakes Four Wheel
Drive Association neither advocates, endorses, nor recommends
any of the said views or opinions.
The Boondocker
Boondocker Submissions
Content for The Boondocker is provided by association members.
We would be glad to receive you articles, pictures, event dates,
technical write-ups or tails from the trail. Take a few minutes to
write up some highlights of your most recent club event or offpavement excursion and be sure to include pictures! You may see
your event in the next issue!
Please note that any submission for the next Boondocker should
be sent via e-mail to editor@glfwda.org before September 30, 2012.
2
Calendar of Events
Michigan Wheelers Badlands
Assault
July 20-22
Badlands Offroad park
Attica, IN
PA All Breeds Jeep Show
July 21, 22
York, PA
UFWDA Annual General
Meeting
July 23, 24 (trail ride 25th)
York, PA (Rausch Creek)
Rocks & Valleys Pig Gig
August 3-5
Harrison, MI
11th Annual Great Escapes
Offroad/Wolverine 4-wheelers
Charity Truck Show
August 4th
Ottawa Lake, MI
Table of Contents
GLFWDA Quarterly
Meeting
Held via Webinar
August 14th
8-10pm
see info on this page!
President’s Message.............................................................4
Two Trackers Manistee Forest Clean-up..............................5
A Worthwhile Weekend........................................................5
Life Celebration of Collin Hansen........................................6
Mud, Sweat & Gears
Drummond Offroad
Adventure
August 17-19
Drummond Island, MI
Training, Training and more Training..............................7
Drummond Island Invasion ..............................................8,9
UMPA Tour.........................................................................10
GLFWDA at the Jeep Blessing...........................................11
Mt. Baldy Hill Climb
September 9th
Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Welcome to our newest member club ..............................12
Meet our Trail Ride Committee Chair Al Koopman..........13
Extreme 4x4 Challenge
September 15-16
Bundy Hill ORV PArk
Jerome, MI
Spring Quarterly Meeting Minutes....................................14
Jeeping for a Cure...............................................................16
4xKids Jam..........................................................................19
Summer Quarterly Meeting
DON’T FORGET!
This Quarter we are trying something new! By popular
demand we are holding our summer meeting via Webinar! Log
on from anywhere and participate via your computer!
To help our association save unnecessary
expenses, this publication can be viewed and
printed online in a PDF format for no cost. Also, as
a benefit, the online version is available for
download typically a week or more before the paper
copies can be printed, mailed, and delivered!
Title: GLFWDA Quarterly Membership Meeting
Date: Tuesday August 14th
Time: 8:00pm-10:00pm.
Space is Limited
Please contact the Membership Secretary and
ask her to remove you from the mailing list
for this paper copy.
Reserve your webinar seat now at:
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/232352433
After registering you will receive a confirmation e-mail
containing information about joining the Webinar.
Past issues are available at
www.glfwda.org/boondocker.html
System Requirements:
PC – Required Window 7, Vista, or 2003 server
Current issues are available on GLFWDA’s website
via the Forums. Follow the link in the Members
section for the latest online version!
Macintosh – Mac OSX 10.5 or newer
We look forward to “seeing” you on the webinar in August!
3
Spring 2012
President’s Message
by Bob Devore
I was recently asked, “What do you do as GLFWDA President”? The short answer is whatever I feel necessary. The official answer
would be that I follow the roles and responsibilities as outlined in the associations SOP under Article III. Officers, Section 3.01
President; just typing that feels pompous. If you know me at all, you know I will readily admit I do not have all the answers and like
those that held the position before me, I simply do what I can.
Each person that has had the privilege of holding the position of GLFWDA president realizes the importance of being aware of all
that is happening within GLFWDA at any given time, at least in a general form. Each person tries to assemble or utilize the
volunteers that step forward to assist in the daunting task of addressing our Land Use Access. As president I am simply one member
of something much, much bigger than myself.
The privilege of holding the position of GLFWDA president is the credit you are given for all the hard work performed by the
volunteers in the trenches, who are fighting for your Land Use Access. I could not possibly Thank Them enough for all their
sacrifices and am embarrassed that anyone would think I personally made a difference as GLFWDA president.
So what do I do to try and assist the volunteers in the trenches, which are fighting for your Land Use Access? I try to find something
for them to do from time to time.
The e-board and various directors swap a number of emails on a daily basis in addressing the business needs of the association
(association = Your Needs). In addition to the e-board I swap emails with DNR Program Directors on a weekly basis which covers
things like Funding, Trail Maintenance, Illegal Wheeling concerns, Closures, Re-routes, Legislation, Partnerships with other OHV
interests, Potential Opportunities of Growth and the list goes on. Discussions with the DNR opens doors to other enthusiasts and
opportunities to have the association needs met.
If I were to summarize my focus as to what it is I do, I would have to say I do what I can to help form and build relationships with
OHV enthusiasts whether that means they are full-size users or not is not always a qualifier. Email plays a big part in my ability to
reach out. I could not possibly list every person or organization I have contact with as the numbers vary from time to time as we as
an association need their assistance or input or they are looking to us as an association to assist them in their pursuits.
When email doesn’t work, then I try the telephone. When the telephone doesn’t work, I travel. Over the last few years I have
utilized four to five of my seven weeks vacation to represent GLFWDA across the State of Michigan. I stopped logging my miles
and tallying my gas receipts because it became too easy for my wife to realize the expenses we incurred as I pursued the needs of the
association (as I see them). The ability to be able to talk face to face with the various land managers on behalf of the association,
whether DNR or NFS, is priceless. The opportunity to discuss the associations concerns with Legislators and/or their aides is
priceless. Reaching out to other OHV enthusiasts is necessary in order to move the associations agenda forward in today’s trying
times.
While GLFWDA has been successful in seeing the projects initiated by previous volunteers come to fruition, the Southeast Michigan
Scramble Area remains elusive. While there is funding earmarked for the land purchase, a suitable piece of property has yet to be
identified. The dilemma in identifying that piece of property lies in the State’s desire to have a local government accept the
responsibility to administer or oversee the running of the scramble area, similar to what Genesee County does with The Mounds. In
the last nine months I have met with more than a dozen local municipalities, chambers of commerce, business bureaus, supervisors
and the like, presenting the economic opportunities of a OHV Scramble Area. The Mounds supports all of the County Parks in
Genesee County so sufficiently that they have experienced no reduction in services even though Michigan’s economy has negatively
impacted the area in a huge way. The passage of PA 240 has become so popular in providing economic growth to areas north of 46;
its adapting south of 46 is becoming widespread. The economic growth a Scramble Area will provide is indisputable.
I read a lot of emails, press releases, land use action alerts, meeting minutes and the like to improve my awareness. I have found over
the years a win is a win and a loss is a loss regardless of the State or Region it occurs and therefore read the Federal Register. Each
day Federal agencies publish numerous documents (articles) in the Federal Register, including proposed rules, final rules, public
notices, and Presidential actions. I read the National Forest Service Schedule of Proposed Actions (SOPA) which is published in
January, April, July, and October. It contains a list of proposed actions that will soon begin or are currently undergoing environmental
analysis and documentation. It provides information in order to become aware of and indicate interest in specific proposals; which
often times requires follow-up to determine the actual intent.
see President pg 20
The Boondocker
4
Two Trackers Forest Clean-up
by Steve LaWarre
th
The Two Trackers Four Wheel Drive Club held its 14 annual Forest Clean
Up on April 21, 2012. This important event is a collaboration between the local
community, the Adopt-A-Forest and Adopt-A-Road Programs, and four wheel drive
enthusiasts from across the state.
The weather this year was perfect and over 125 volunteers showed up to
remove trash and clean up dump sites in a number of different areas. These included
areas in the northern Muskegon County Townships of Cedar Creek, Blue Lake, Holton
and Dalton, and Oceana County Townships of Greenwood, Otto and Grant.
Hot coffee and cocoa was once again generously donated by Cargo Food &
Fuel, along with the use of their parking lot for morning registration. Funding was
provided by the Two Trackers Four Wheel Drive Club as well as grants from three
different organizations; the Department of Environmental Quality, the Michigan Coalition for Clean Forests, and Tread Lightly. The
following businesses and individuals donated funds, food, products or services to make this year’s event a success: Great Lakes
Sewer & Septic, Buyer’s Guide, Allied Waste, Cargo Gas Station, Discount tire, W&W Construction Services, Icon Signs, Senator
Geoff Hanson, Billy the Printer, Meijer, Forest Hills Food, Bill Sherwood, Doug Wine, and John Brophy
By the end of the day, almost 700 tires were removed and enough trash was
collected to fill 3 roll-off dumpsters (almost 90 yards!). Over the past 14 years,
volunteers for this event have picked up over 1,200 cubic yards of trash, 4,600 tires,
160,000 pounds of shingles, 225 gallons of hazardous waste, and 3 junk vehicles!
A free hot dog lunch was provided for participants, and everyone had an
opportunity to get together and enjoy the nice weather. This year’s clean-up will
also be remembered as bitter-sweet for many members of the off-road community.
Collin Hanson, a friend of many and active member of the 4WD community, was
able to attend this event. Collin passed away on May 25, 2012 and will be missed by
all.
A Worthwhile Weekend
by Ed Schroeder
A chance to work an extremely significant community service event,
the opportunity to participate in a GLFWDA quarterly meeting, and the
prospect of a full day to play at Silver Lake Sand Dunes. This was the pitch
I gave the members of What Lies Beyond Jeep Club of Michigan (WLB)
for months preceding the Two Trackers Forest Clean-up event (featured
above). By holding the GLFWDA quarterly meeting the day of the two
trackers event they hoped a lot more people would stick around for the
meeting than when they hold the meeting the next morning. As an added
bonus, with no meeting to attend in the morning, those that wanted to stay
would have the entire day to wheel at Silver Lake rather than just rushing a
few hours in the afternoon before the long drive back to Genesee County
and beyond.
After hearing me talk about this all year leading up to April. five
members of WLB – Mark Hrenyk, Paul Hittie, Russ Clifton, Doug Payne,
and I made the trek across the state for the clean-up. Doug had to head
home early due to illness but the rest stuck around for the quarterly meeting
and it was great to see strong participation at the quarterly by attendees
from the clean-up event. We camped at Silver Lake State Park and were
joined Sunday by another member, Ryan Gogolen, to head over to the sand
dunes. With five rigs we had a lot of fun splitting up into two groups and
exploring around the dunes, conquering test hill, splashing through some
of the water down by the beach, etc. I even managed to get stuck in what I
swear was the exact spot I got stuck in two years ago out at the dunes – a
see Weekend pg 21
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Spring 2012
Life Celebration of Collin Hansen
by: Anonymous
Collin Hansen left his mark in this world for everybody in the 4 wheeling community to see. He was a son, husband, father, and
friend who left those of us who knew him wanting more. He also was an outdoor enthusiast, who loved being with nature, and
off-roading. From his trips to Drummond Island, Rocks & Valleys, Badlands, and Silver lake Sand Dunes near his home, he was
either participating in an adventure or talking about going to one. Even while going through medical treatments he could still find
the strength to help preserve our trails as shown in his involvement with the 56th Ave Near Silver Lake road repair project last
fall.
Some have commented about his stature, being a giant of a man. We knew this to be true, but more so in due to his personality
and heart for others, than his physical size. There wasn’t a person on this planet that Collin would not try to be a friend with.
Sure he had disagreements, but would extend his hand and maybe offer you a cold beverage while he discussed with you the
conflict.
Cancer took our young friend right before Memorial weekend this year. He was so looking forward to spending time in one of his
off-road havens, with his son Cole and wife Courtney this summer. He wanted to celebrate the accomplishments in his life that he
was so proud of before he left this life for eternity. He gave many of us a mandate, to enjoy life, not to sweat the little stuff, and
to love each other as family and fellow man.
When his friends got together that rainy Friday to say their farewells to this beloved man, there was heaviness in the crowd. The
mood changed however, when at the end of the trail ride in honor of Collin, we were given an amazing site. The sun broke out of
the clouds and gave us a beautiful red glow across the horizon, as if to say, “celebrate my friends, all is well”.
“I met Collin on the trail and he left us on a trail ride.” (Erin Early)
The first 30 years of Collin’s life he spent learning how to be a man, the last year, after his diagnosis, he spent as a teacher to
show the rest of us how to have that “Life Celebration”.
The Boondocker
6
Training, Training, and More Training
This has been a busy spring of training programs for GLFWDA
volunteers across the state. We have been to Silver Lake State
Park, the RAM Center in Roscommon, and Genesee County.
In March, long-time UFWDA 4WD Awareness Instructor
Pat Kinne teamed up with our new GLFWDA 4WD Awareness
Training Coordinator Craig Feusse to lead a group of trainers out
to Silver Lake State Park. GLFWDA has been providing training
to the staff at Silver Lake State Park for several years, focusing
on save recovery on the dues as well as practical driving
instruction. The staff at SLSP are not there to provide a resource
for recreational 4x4 users of the SLSP ORV area, but they need
to be trained in how to safely get their own or other State vehicles
unstuck from the dunes. Feedback from SLSP facility manager
Charlotte Keifer was that the staff was excited to participate, and
she was pleased with the professionalism and knowledge of our
team. In addition to Pat and Craig, GLFWDA volunteers Wayne
Rynbrand, Pat Beldock, and Jim Kitson were on hand to coach
the SLSP staff.
In June, Pat Brower and I served as volunteer instructors
at the DNR’s ORV Safety Academy, which provides instruction
for the ORV Safety Instructors that primarily teach kids the ORV
laws and safety practices. The new ORV safety program includes
a section on winching and extraction techniques, not necessarily
limited to 4x4 vehicles since so many ATV/RTV/UTVs can mount
a winch and most are equipped with a loop or tow point for using
a strap. Pat provided the instruction for the second session of the
Academy, I covered the first since one of the students was in fact
our own Pat Brower. DNR ORV and Snowmobile Safety Field
Coordinator Cpl. John Morey indicated that budget concerns
pushed the DNR to seek volunteer instructors, freeing up other
training officers to work in the field and reducing overtime. Pat
and I were joined by volunteers from Michigan’s Cycle
Conservation Club who provided hands-on safety instruction on
motorcycles for the instructors-in-training, while DNR Law
Enforcement officers (Including Cpl. Morey) provided the ATV
and UTV instruction.
Also in June, Craig Feusse and I participated in an
experimental program – Genesee County Parks and Davison
Community Enrichment and Recreation sponsored a UFWDA
4WD Awareness training session that was advertised to the public,
utilizing the program guides for both organizations as well as
their websites. The set up was about as good as we could hope
for – DCER provided the facility at no cost by scheduling our
classroom session concurrently with other planned events in their
community education building, and Genesee County provided
free admission to the Mounds for the hands-on portion of our
training. The experiment was to see if we could find enough
local participants to make this a standing course offering, so Craig
and I waited to see what type of response the class would get
from the public. DCER Program Supervisor Shawn Barrett had
discussed the planned training session with several of her peers
from other adult/community education programming directors,
7
By Paul Hitttie
and several were excited about the idea and curious to see if it
would work. Unfortunately, the experiment failed – there were
no participants from the local community signed up as late as a
week prior to the session, but we did end up with two students,
and it provided a good opportunity for Craig to work with the
full program for the first time. DCER and GCP have both
expressed an interest in trying again in the fall when their overall
attendance is better at community educational events, but I think
we will
see Training pg 21
Recently my wife and I attended UFWDA’s 4X4 Awareness
Class in Davison. The two of us have been off-roading together for
over ten years, and last year we bought our first modified Jeep: a
2004 Wrangler LJ with a 4" lift and 33" tires. When Leanne and I
met in 2000 she had a new Cherokee Sport and had been going to
the dunes for many years. I had a GMC 4x4 pickup and had spent
many happy days two tracking. In January we attended SOFO’s
“SnoFari” and experienced our first real off-roading with a group. I
have spent a lot of time at one end or the other of a tow strap or tow
chain in my life. So when I saw the posting on GLFWDA.org for
the class we decided to go. Paul Hittie UFWDA, GLFWDA, member
and Craig Feusse GLFWDA Training Coordinator, and Warn
engineer taught the class.
We spent the first part of the class learning about how 4x4’s
work. We learned about different methods of extraction and the
kinds of equipment to use. We learned about many aspects of offroading including trail etiquette and more. Then after our lunch
break the class met at Genesee County Parks Mounds Off-Road
Vehicle Area for some hands on learning. We drove through the
sand, mud, two-tracks, and rock areas of the park. In the rock crawl
area we watched as Ed Schroeder along with Paul Hittie acting as
his spotter navigated one of the 4 or 5 rock features in the park.
Later we met a wheeler who had the misfortune of running his 4x4
pickup into a water hole that was deeper than he thought ( if only he
had taken the awareness class). So with the help of a bumper
mounted winch and our newly learned extraction skills we were
able get the pickup back on dry ground.
So all in all I would say it was a very good day, we learned
how to be better, safer wheelers, we met new people, we got to go
wheeling, and I think it will make our future wheeling experiences
a lot more fun.
By Russel Clifton
Spring 2012
Drummond Island Invasion 2012
The Drummond Island Invasion took place on April 13,
14 and 15th this year. As usual a good time was had by all. We
managed to make the parking lot at the resort look great, and
the rigs weren’t bad either! The Invasion is a casual weekend
where a bunch of us on the forum show up to have fun. Rigs
are optional, families are welcome and a sense of humor is
mandatory.
On Thursday people straggled in to the resort, where
most of us were staying. The resort is great that time of year
because it affords us a wonderfully comfortable place to meet
in the Great Room upstairs. Everyone likes to look out the
window as the rigs arrive and drive right under you to get to the
parking lot.
On Friday everyone decided which route they would
like to take, with some going out to Marble Head , another
group headed that way but via Plywood Camp road and yet
another group left for the Tight and Twisties and Halfrisch trail.
We had a few “casualties” the first day. One was a set of gear
teeth that went missing courtesy of a loose OX locker and one
was an engine that just didn’t want to swim in Dipstick Hole.
The gear breakage had to be left on the trail for retrieval later
that night with a very interesting trail fix. Since the jeep
wouldn’t move more than a few feet before locking up, the axle
had to come out. In order to keep the unit bearing and wheel
attached, Alter Ego (Gary Greenway) went and bought a large
threaded metal rod…worked like a charm and it survived being
driven back to the resort through the Tight and Twisties by
Rover (Nick Notich) who isn’t known for his careful driving.
Shaggy and Snoopy (Forest and Tana) misunderstood the
By Pamela East
advice to “Don’t go through” Dipstick Hole and thought the
voice over the radio said to “Go through it”. He tried….it
didn’t. So the “hole “ claims yet another engine.
Saturday was the day for Turtle Ridge action. Andrea
Greenway showed the men how to drive on the rocks there.
Several other groups went back on the state trails. Those of us
whose rigs broke hitched rides with others that had open seats.
One poor guy had to take 3 girls in his rig.
Saturday night was Awards night. Each person who
won an award also was given a Michigan Wheelers thong they
had to model. Clothing optional, but not one person took me up
on that. Such a lost opportunity. The Bling award went to
Desiree for another of her amazing, outstanding and delicious
cakes. The Worst Stuck award went to Bill C. with the Team
Kamikaze. The Worst Broke award went to Forest Gage for his
lost engine. The Holy Crap award went to Andrea Greenway
for her awesome driving skills and the Most Helpful award
went to Nick Notich (Rover) for his much appreciated help
getting my rig out of the woods at night. The awards were
made by Tim Strader (Muddypaws) and his students who did a
great job as usual.
A trip to the island would not be complete without
mentioning our morning meeting place, The Bear Track Inn on
Drummond Island. Steve Walker is the best and puts up with
our shenanigans and still serves the best breakfast anywhere! A
big thanks to the staff at the Drummond Island Resort too.
Always happy to see us and setting up welcoming signs,
coupons and opening Turtle Ridge to us so early. If you missed
it this year, check for it next year…it’s a great time for all.
For all your Jeep needs, see the experts at...
2170 US 31 North, Petoskey, MI
The Boondocker
8
Drummond Island Invasion 2012
9
Spring 2012
UMPA Tour
by Paul W. Smith
May 3-6, 2012 was the Ultimate Michigan Park Adventure
(UMPA), 4 parks in 4 days.
Day 1 Bundy Hill in Jerome.
Day 2 Rocks and Valleys Offroad
Park in Harrison
Day 3 Jeep Blessing in Mesick.
Day 4 Twisted Trails in Copemish.
Due to work constraints, I was only
able to make 3 of the 4 parks. I hit
Bundy Hill on Thursday afternoon
with a friend and we both tackled Warn Valley for the first time.
A nice and challenging trail with some large rocks/boulders to
maneuver around. Making it through this trail without much
carnage is always a major accomplishment. We wheeled until
just before the sun started to set and the storms rolled in. And not
only did it rain, it poured (but not on us, only the campers).
Unfortunately I missed making it to Rocks and Valleys
on Friday, but from what I heard, it was a good time, as it always
is at Rocks and Valleys.
On Saturday, it was up to Mesick for the 11th annual
Blessing of the Jeeps. The most jeeps you’ll ever see in one place.
There are several “Master Drivers” courses that are designed for
vehicles from stock to heavily modified. The courses includes
obstacles such as rocks, boulders, fallen trees, tires, concrete slabs,
a tunnel, a teeter totter and even a large pipe to drive over. And if
you’re into getting dirty, the mud pit is always a hit with both the
participants and the crowd. 2012 had a new addition to
“Chadville” (the more extreme of the courses-- front and rear
lockers and a winch required to enter), thanks to the concrete
work done by Corey Miller. This was a hit with both the
participants and the spectators. All said and done, the Cadillac
Jeepers facebook page posted that they had a total of 1107
registered vehicles.
On Sunday it was off to Twisted Trails in Copemish. Only
being 25 minutes from the Jeep Blessing, many participants stayed
around to his this park. It’s a large park that offers many trails
and obstacles for any vehicle. We decided to hit some of the hill
climbs out on the Blue trail and to tackle some of the rock climbs
as well.
It was a great weekend and with 4 parks in 4 days (even
though I only hit 3 of them). For those that were able to swing all
4 days, I’m sure they definitely enjoyed themselves. A special
thanks to Bundy Hill and Rocks and Valleys for opening up
midweek for this Ultimate Michigan Park Adventure. Michigan
definitely has a lot to offer when it comes to places to wheel.
The Boondocker
10
GLFWDA at the Cadillac Jeepers Jeep Blessing
Great Lakes Four Wheel Drive Association had a very productive
day at the Cadillac Jeepers Jeep Blessing in Mesick Michigan on
Saturday May 5th. Wayne Rynbrand, Brent Rutterbusch and I
manned a booth tag-teaming on and off throughout the day so we
could each go see the vendors or drive the Obstacle Course. We
passed out all of our GLFWDA Flyers, all of our Boondocker
Newsletters, and sold a lot of GLFWDA gear including
Sweatshirts, T-Shirts, Hats, etc. Too bad we didn’t pack more
hoodies – it was freezing all morning long and we probably could
have sold a dozen hoodies to chilly GLFWDA members! We
signed up several new members on the spot and we spoke to
many more folks who took applications and/or said they would
sign up online.
Before the actual Blessing Ceremony, our hosts, the
Cadillac Jeepers gave any clubs and organizations a chance to
speak to the crowd. Members of The Trolls, The Two Trackers,
What Lies Beyond, Cheap Thrills OffRoad and the Cadillac
Jeepers all spoke briefly about their clubs. This was followed by
Pat Brower speaking on behalf of Great Lakes and United Four
Wheel Drive Associations. Pat explained the three tier system
we rely on – local clubs to spot the issues with trail closures,
GLFWDA working in Lansing to preserve public access to public
lands, and UFWDA working in Washington and beyond to
by Ed Schroeder
preserve the sport at a national level. He urged everyone to start
their involvement by Joining GLFWDA & UFWDA if they were
not already members.
We had a great lead with one Michigan based off road
club. A couple of their board members were talking to me and
said they were interested in joining GLFWDA as a full roster
club. They said the BOD was on board with it and they just
were looking for more information. I discussed with them the
less tangible benefits of promoting the sport, working to keep
trails open, etc. Some of the specifics we are working on such as
the bill to raise the permit threshold to 60 vehicles instead of 20
people, and the very tangible benefits of operating an event with
our insurance policy with at most a $125 fee. They seemed like
a well organized group and I believe they will likely be our next
full roster club if we just reach out to them.
In addition, one of the most exciting aspects of the day
was that we had at least 5-6 people approach us and indicate
they were thinking of forming a club and asked if we could help.
We obviously explained that we are happy to help, we have
sample by-laws and such that they can use to get organized, and
I suggested that we could hook them up with someone from the
association if they wanted to have a meeting. Many of them
were the typical group of 5-6 that wheel together and want to
formalize things. I was able to relay the story of the formation
of WLB with similar circumstances, which seemed to encourage
them that it could be done. Wayne handed out his business card
to several of these people so they had a direct contact to followup with.
As an added highlight to the day, the organizers of the
UMPA tour (which was that week touring Bundy Hill, Rocks &
Valleys, the Blessing and Twisted Trails) dropped off a donation
of $50 to us - They had advertised, that $1.00 from each vehicle
registered for the tour was going to be donated to GLFWDA.
This was a great bonus on top of a productive and fun day.
Thanks to our Hosts, The Cadillac Jeepers and thanks to those of
you that stopped by the booth to chat. We look forward to seeing
everyone at next year’s Jeep Blessing!
11
Spring 2012
Welcome our Newest Full Roster Club - Cheap Thrills OffRoad
Where is the Club Based?
Majority are based around Western Michigan. but members range
from the U.P., Detriot, IN., etc.
How many Members?
Currently Standing at 20 “Full” members
Where are members from, generally speaking?
Western Michigan, . but members range from the U.P., Detriot, IN.,
etc.
Who are your club Officers?
John Ramos-President
Terry Carlson-Vice President
Gary Kellay- Secretary
What are the requirements to become a member?
In order for someone to join CTOR they will have to go through the
following steps:
1. Be sponsored by a current CTOR member who has been a member
for a min. of one year and in good standing with the club.
2. Attend a minimum of one wheeling trip with CTOR and another
event where at least 7 members are present.
After they have attended two events a unanimous vote will take place
on whether or not the person is allowed to join. CTOR does not have
“open enrollment”.
When/Where/how often do you hold club meetings?
Quarterly with varying locations around Michigan
Where does the club like to go wheeling?
CTOR wheels year round, but with summer being the most active time
of year, this past year Rocks and Valleys was the CTOR “hot spot”.
What Type of involvement does the club have in your community?
Various members volunteer their time where they can and however they
can. Currently the club has not led an event etc.
What do you perceive as the benefits of joining GLFWDA?
Supporting safe and legal ORVuse and the preservation of our ORV
rights. Potential for possible use of GLFWDA insurance to host a
CTOR event.
Is anyone from your club active on the board or other positions at
GLFWDA?
At this time AL Koopman from CTOR serves as the Trail Ride
Coordinator.
CTOR Members take on the Phase 3 rocks
at The Mounds ORV park
It is always great to see clubs make the decision to join GLFWDA as
full-roster clubs. This to us represents an acknowledgement of the
important work the Association is doing on behlaf of our sport. We
are extremely pleased that recently Cheap Thrills Off Road made the
decision to join the association. The boondocker editor conducted an
e-mail interview with Cheap Thrills to learn a little more about the
club. Here are some excerpts form that exchange:
Cheap Thrills OffRoad in Attica, IN
Kris’ Splicing
-Amsteel Blue winchlines
-Kinetic Recovery Ropes
-Custom splicing & repair
All work hand-done by the Owner in Lansing, MI
www.krissplicing.com
The Boondocker
12
Meet our Trail Ride Committee Chairman - Al Koopman
My name is Al Koopman. I live in Conklin Michigan, I’m 30 after she was born. We’ve had plenty of time to spend together.
years old, 5’11", and I like writing poetry, long walks on the After all our time together, I can breath a sigh of relief knowing
beach, and cuddl….. Oh wait, wrong bio for this newsletter.
she has already grown to be smarter than I am.
Since August of 2011, I have been the Trail Ride
In August of last year, I was attending the GLFWDA
Committee Chairman for GLFWDA. I’ve been asked to submit quarterly on Drummond Island, when in conversations with
a little bio on myself, a way to
people I got to discuss taking
introduce me to you. While I
the TRCC position. They
Trail Ride Committee Chairman Al Koopman
hate talking about myself, I told
needed someone to fill a role,
them I would give it a shot.
and I needed a purpose (outside
I started wheeling
of my daily daddy duties) to fill
before I was born. My father
my time. It was a good fit.
regularly tells the story of
Being able to lend a hand to
taking my mom out wheeling
help keep the sport I love
when she was 9 months
rolling is an honor. Knowing
pregnant. Apparently, from that
now how far the off-road world
point forward, I liked it. I have
reaches, I now long to see more
been wheeling my own rigs
of it. Volunteering here is a step
now for 10+ years. My passion
in that direction. So far I have
is 78/79 Ford Broncos, even
had the opportunity to meet
though I now drive a 98 Jeep
some fantastic people and help
TJ. I’ve wheeled on both ends
contribute to a few events. I
of the spectrum, from built
have also learned that the world
hardcore rigs and trails, to my TJ on nice easy stuff. I’ve had the of Four Wheeling I knew didn’t even crack the surface of what is
luxury of wheeling many places across this great nation. Some out there.
of my favorite being Arizona and Vermont, but my home away
Part of my duties are to help organize and cultivate new
from home will always be Drummond Island Michigan. It’s off-road events, and in the last few months I’ve had the
where I spend most my free time wheeling, and where I go to get opportunity to sit down with a bunch of different people to discuss
away from life for a while.
what they would like to see accomplished by someone in this
I am a longstanding member of CHEAPTHRILLS position, as well as listen to some ideas thrown around of things
OFFROAD CLUB, and more recently of the TWO TRACKERS that might be possibilities for the future. It’s great to have people
FOUR WHEEL DRIVE CLUB. I hold the External Events share their ideas with me, and to help mold some of the ideas
Coordinator position with the Two Trackers, a position that shares I’ve had into something more. Judging by the amount of input
a lot of similarities with my position here with GLFWDA. I am I’ve got thus far, I can say the future of wheeling events in
also a member of many national organizations and groups Michigan is looking promising.
dedicated to responsible wheeling. I am also a former member
Another aspect of this position is helping secure the
of two other Michigan based clubs. So needless to say I keep a proper permits and paperwork with the DNR and State for our
lot of irons in the off-road world fire.
events. While a few of our event coordinators take this
I’ve been married to my wife Andrea for 7 years, this responsibility on themselves, I’ve recently had the chance to get
July, and a Father to a great 3year old little girl who loves being my feet wet with this duty. Before this position, I have never had
out doors and in the Jeep as much as I do. I find riding trails this kind of interaction with the DNR of the State. It was definitely
with my daughter to be some of our best times together. Which a learning experience. Making sure all the forms are filled out
says a lot, because I’ve been a stay at home dad since shortly proper, and then sent out to the right people at the right time
see Koopman pg 20
13
Spring 2012
Spring Meeting Minutes
Quarterly Meeting – April 21, 2012
Whitehall, Michigan
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
Call to Order
a. Bob DeVore called the meeting to order at 5:00
pm, Eastern Standard Time
Introduction of Executive Board
a. Dave Smith Treasurer, Paul Hittie Vice President,
Pam East Membership Secretary, Bob DeVore
President . Secretary Carl Jarema,
Approval of Minutes - motion for approval made,
seconded and approved unanimously
President’s Report
a. Spent the last weekend with WOHVA (Wisconsin)
They work closely with various Indian tribes to
keeps trails open. They have been working with the
state to build an ORV park for 5 years. They group
is looking to place a park more north in the state
with better terrain, but the state wants the park close
to a larger city. Bob used Drummond Island as an
example for WOHVA to use with the state. All the
cities and areas will benefit as off-roaders travel to
and from the park.
b. This year is election year
Vice President’s Report
a. Trail Maintenance Grant due at the end of the
month. New clubs or groups are always welcome
to work more miles. ATV Offroad is helping
manage various ORV trails
b. 4x4 Awareness Training was held at Siler Lake
with the DNR. It was a productive session. There
will be an upcoming course with Genesee County
on June 9th in Davison. Cost will be about $35. If
you are interested in becoming a trainers or
getting trained, talk to Jim Mazola.
Treasurer’s Report
a. Thank you to everyone that came out for the Trail
Clean Up. Over 100 cubic yards and 686 tires
cleaned up.
b. GLFWDA is in good standing, main expenses
Tread Lightly and UFWDA
Membership Secretary’s Report
a. 253 current members
b. Three Level 5 Associate Members, 2 Level 3, and
several Level 1 and 2 Associate Members
Associate Membership Secretary’s Report (Bob
DeVore)
Web Site Administrator’s Report
a. Discussion to add Facebook advertising for
GLFWDA. The ads are based on a pre-set amount
and location. Ads show up based on interests
labeled in Facebook. Ads wold show up for off
road interested people. What Lies Beyond has
X.
XI.
XII.
XIII.
XIV.
XV.
XVI.
seen an increase in “Likes” on its Facebook page
since beginning the advertisements.
Boondocker Editor’s Report
a. Needs lots of pictures and stories. Please write in
PR Committee (Bob DeVore; general discussion)
a. GLFWDA leaflets out at Silver Lake and
Placemat Ads in Muskegon and Oceana Counties
b. We can use volunteers at Jeep Blessing if you plan
on attending or can make it.
Trail Ride Committee Report (Paul Hittie)
a. The 2012 park crawl will happen June 13th
through the 16th
b. DOA is planned for August 17-18 presented by
MSG
Land Use Report – KOTARO –
a. Huron Manistee – Snowmobile and hunting not
being pursued
b. Motion to donate 900 to the Otto Township
Secretary to assist with legal fees acquired thus
far for the fight. Motion passed unanimously
c. Three bills to be introduced this week
i. Change event permit from 20 people to 75
vehicle and definition of other route and
forest road
d. Letter Campaign in St. Helen.
i. There has been a letter campaign to
support events in the area
e. UP Trail Development Association
i. Active Group that supports development
of multi-use vehicles
ii. Motion for GLFWDA to join at $100.
Motion unanimously passed
f. Keweenaw Trail – LOUD
i. ATVs are able to use the trail, but the
paper company that owns land does not
want full size access
g. Top of Michigan Trail Council has asked
GLFWDA to provide input on a “Rustic Driving:
intiative
Trail Maintenance – covered under VP report
Old Business
a. Vacancies
i. Associate Membership Secretary
ii. 4wd Awareness – June 9 in Davision, MI
b. UFWDA AGM
i. July 23 – 24 in York Pennsylvania
ii. All UFWDA member welcome to attend
New Business
a. 4WD Awareness – Computer Purchase
see Minutes pg 19
The Boondocker
14
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15
Spring 2012
Jeeping for a Cure
Approximately one hundred rigs descended upon Rocks & Valleys
Off-Road Park in Harrison, Michigan for the noble cause of
raising money to further cancer research. Sixty one were preregistered, but given that Midwesterners are just coming out of
their winter build and repair season it is not surprising that some
waited till the last minute.
by Paul Hittie
Text & Photos by Gregory A. Wischmeyer
Harrison area Four Wheeler Ron Price developed and opened
Rocks and Valleys Off-Road Park in 2009. Ron has been involved
with the property for 23 years as the eastern part of the property
is a downhill ski area and golf course. Harrison was originally a
lumbering town with a saw-mill on the south shore of Bud Lake.
The early downtown had several brothels for the lumbermen and
later became home to the famous Spikehorn Meyers and his family
of pet bears.
The 200 plus acres that encompass the four wheel area are mostly
wooded with gravel veins and valleys, some evil black bottomless
swamp sections, and lots of tight twisty trails. These trails are
not full size friendly and even a Willys will need to make many 3
point turns. The trail ratings are simple: green for easy (such as
“Round About” or “Green Horn”, blue for intermediate like “
Pack a Lunch” or “ Rattler” (since Michigan is home to one
poisonous snake the Massasauga Rattler), and black for advanced.
The advanced trail such as “Reaper”, “Rock Wall” and “Stump
Derrick and Heather Roberts organized the 2nd annual Jeeping
for a Cure as part of the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure.
Pre-Registration got participants park admission, tee shirt, and
raffle entry. Drivers and trailer rigs started pouring in before 10:00
and by 10:30 the entry line was out on the highway. Mostly
Michigan rigs but also accompanied by many fellow wheelers
from Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. The range of vehicles went from
stock to buggies and every level in between. This area of the
Midwest has many dedicated followers of CJ-5’s, 6’s, and 7’s as
there are parts and advice available in most every town.
Sundowner 4x4 trail guide Pat Beldock was on hand to guide the
unfamiliar through the labyrinth of trails with line up started at
10:30. This may seem a little late to the West & East Coast
organized runs but around here we take it a little slower. This is
a land where breakfast is held in nearly as high esteem as the
evening cook-out. Lets’ just say yogurt and a banana do not cut
it.
Hill” can require that fine blend of big traction, enough ponies
and deep gearing to nail it, get off it, and back on it. For throughout
Michigan, sand and gravel can always appear along the most
hard-packed or rocky hill climb. Many area rigs are multi-purpose
that are here for this weekend, may be at the sand dunes next
weekend, then Pennsylvania or Tennessee the next after that.
As temperatures climbed in to the low 90’s, the morning exodus
into the woods reappeared for lunch served up by Derrick, Heather
and a small army of volunteers. The raffle followed lunch with
many generous donations by regional vendors, builders, and
fabricators. With happy belly’s and some serious re-hydration
the faithful re-entered the woods. With greater trail familiarity,
higher confidence levels, so rose the RPM’s and the sweet sounds
of vehicles attacking hills, rocks, and mud permeated the park.
Four wheelers will always rally for a club member, a friend, or
an event such as Jeeping for a Cure. The turnout was phenomenal,
the wheeling was fantastic, and the cause was noble.
The Boondocker
16
Gr e a t L a k e s S t o r e : C l o t h i n g , G e a r , a n d M oby:rPaul
e ! Hittie
Order Online @ www.glfwda.org/store/
Now Available!
Also available: Sweat-shirts,
Long Sleeved Shirts, and more!
front
GLFWDA
Hoodies!
Be sure to specify mens or womens and
the size of clothing when ordering.
Most clothing sizes are available
from Medium up to 3XL.
back
T- S h i r t s $ 1 0
Just $24!
Special Order items also available: Jackets, etc... Custom Lettering Available for
most articles. Contact our vendor directly for custom orders at www.feemb.net or
contact the Store Manager for more information.
Store Manager
Endangered Species Stickers $3
Kevin Bentz
1627 Eureka Rd.
Wyandotte, MI 48192
store@glfwda.org
4” or 6” GLFWDA
Stickers $1
GLFWDA Club Listing & Contact Info
Mid–MichiganFourwheelers
Member since 1990
Director: Ron Roggow
4125 Roosevelt
Hemlock, MI 48626
Mud, Sweat, and Gears
Member since 1987
www.msg4x4club.com
Director: Tim Yocum
tim.yocum@koltanbar.com
SoFO – Michigan
Member since 2005
Website:sofo.glfwda.org
31026 West Chicago
Livonia, MI 48150
734.776.6072
sofomich@gmail.com
Tri–City Trail Riders
Member since 2003
Director: Steve Gradowski
1634 Hotchkiss Rd
Freeland MI 48623
nvrenuf@gmail.com
Cheap Thrills Off Road
Member since 2011
www.cheapthrillsoffroad.com
Troll Fourwheelers
Member since 1993
c/o Dusty Maat
526 N. Lake St Lot #7
Boyne City, MI 49712
dmaat@hotmail.com
What Lies Beyond Jeep Club
Member since 2007
PO Box 718
Flint, MI 48501
www.whatliesbeyond.org
Two Trackers Four Wheel Drive
Club, Inc.
PO Box 88063
Kentwood, MI 48518-9998
www.twotrackers.com
www.twotrackers.org
UNITED FOUR WHEEL DRIVE
ASSOCIATIONS
P.O. Box 316
Swartz Creek, MI 48473
1–800–44–UFWDA
17
Spring 2012
2 0 1 2
MUD. Sweat & Gears presents
Drummond
of
froad
adventure
FRIday & saturday
th
August 17-18
th
Register
May
5
msg4x4club.com
Full-size vehicle
4x4 trail ride
The Boondocker
18
4xKids Jam
The Fat Boys Jeepers out of Richmond, IN recently held
their first 4xKids JAM trail ride at Wilstem Ranch near French
Lick, IN. The club, with members from 6 states, has pledged to
build a low ropes challenge course at
Camp Riley in Bradford Woods, Indiana
University’s 2,500-acre universally
accessible outdoor recreational facility.
Camp Riley opened in 1955 and offers a
summer camp experience for youth ages
8-18 with physical disabilities. http://www.rileykids.org/about/
camp_riley/
The Jeepers have been taking
Camp Riley campers and staff on trail
rides during 4xKids day for the last 10
years. Every year near the end of June/
first of July, Fat Boys Jeepers, sponsors
and supporters visit Bradford Woods,
located outside of Indianapolis, to give the
campers a feel of wind in their face,
rustling through the trees, swaying of the
Jeeps and a little splash across a creek trail ride in the open top
Jeeps.
With the completion of the first annual 4xKids JAM, the
Fat Boys Club has realized about $15,000 of their $75,000 pledge.
Approximately 1000 children will be able to use the low ropes
challenge course each year, for the next 20-30 years. Anyone can
join next year’s 4xKids JAM trail ride event, just check the website
later this fall for registration information and the date and event
location for 2013. http://www.4xkids.org
By Doug Saul
But you don’t have to be an event participant or even
wait until next year to make a donation to this worthwhile cause,
just visit this link for on-line donations.
https://
www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/FBJ/4xKIDS/event
Event registration started on Thursday afternoon with
Jeep related games and challenges, then a preliminary trail ride.
A welcome session with snacks and greetings followed and a
briefing of available trail groups/leaders allowed participants to
discuss any concerns they had before signing up for a group of
their choosing. Friday and Saturday trails left at 9 AM. There
were trails for every level of Jeep and
driver. After the meal Friday night, a very
successful auction was held of donated
travel items, Jeep parts, and memorabilia.
Saturday’s trail schedule included a
return to the Barn at 2 PM to meet and
pickup some welcomed guests. Campers
& families, along with some Camp Riley
staff members, joined us to ride on some
mild trails, observation of other Jeeps
tackling the rough stuff, dinner and stories later that evening. A
raffle was also held with prize donations from WARN, Hi-Lift
Jacks, Bushwacker, Clover Patch and other familiar names.
THANKS Fat Boys Jeepers, a GREAT ride and a GREAT
cause! Check out more information and pictures of the 4xKids
JAM event on the Camp Riley Face Book page. Hope to see
YOU there next year.
https://www.facebook.com/#!/media/set/
?set=a.400884256618997.92880.222523461121745&type=1
Minutes from pg 14
i. Motion made and passed for $2000 for
a computer and projector. This will
help make the presentations easier
between people and make GLFWDA
look more professional
XVII. Club Reports
a. Two Trackers
i. Thank you! 120 volunteers this year
b. Mud, Sweat & Gears
i. DOA 2012 August 18
ii. New repeater going in
c. Sundowners
i. Lost the 80 acres the club used
XVIII. Associate Members Reports - None
XIX. Upcoming Dates of Importance/Announcements
a. 2012 Quarterly Membership Meeting Dates
and Locations
i. Summer – date TBD, watch for
announcement of web-based format
b. Additional Dates of Importance
19
II.
i. 14th Annual Two Trackers Forest Cleanup April 21th Twin Lakes
ii. 9th Annual Jeep Blessing May 5th
Mesick
iii. Drummond Offroad Adventure Aug
18th Drummond Island
iv. UFWDA Annual General Meeting
July 23-24 York PA
v. Jeep Creep October 26-27th
vi. 2nd Annual Jeeping 4 a Cure Breat
Cancer Fund Raiser May 19th in
Harrison
Adjournment 6:50pm
Spring 2012
President from page 4
In a sense I have just scratched the surface of what I do as
GLFWDA president. The fact of what I do or don’t do doesn’t
make it right or wrong, nor does it mean I have successfully
exploited every opportunity. I have simply done that which I
thought needed done and have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity
to be a part of something bigger. Please do not focus on my
efforts, focus on what GLFWDA is doing for Our Sport.
I close this quarter’s article without a quote as I normally would,
because I wish to Thank the Members of GLFWDA for the
opportunities you have provided and ask you to realize while each
of us has the ability to make a difference in and of ourselves,
joining hands with the GLFWDA volunteers working on your
behalf will provide memories and friendships which are priceless.
Koopman from page 13
carries a lot of responsibility. But I am happy to report that so
far things are rolling smoothly.
In the future I look forward to honing my skills in this
position, to helping in any way possible to make GLFWDA events
more successful, and to using what I learn here to make the
experience of Michigan off-roading all the more better. Ill be the
first person to say I don’t know everything. I am always willing
to listen. With that said if there is ever an idea you want to throw
on the table, a bit of input you want to give, or something you
have a question about, feel free to contact me.
My email is TRC@GLFWDA.org. I may be slow to
reply, but that doesn’t mean I’m not listening. I hope to see many
of you at some of our upcoming events, and if not there hopefully
on the trail somewhere.
Thank You All,
Bob DeVore (aka Jarhead)
Associate Membership Directory
Jeeperz Creeperz
www.jeeperz–creeperz.com
1627 Eureka Rd.,
Wyandotte, MI 48192
734–281–8141
sales@jeeperz–creeperz.com
The Dam Site inn
US 31, 1.5 miles S of Pellston Contact: Kevin Bentz
231-539-8851
Michigan Wheelers
www.damsiteinn.com
www.michiganwheelers.com
Bundy Hill Offroad Park
Rocks & Valleys Off-road Park
www.bundyhilloffroad.com
US 127 between Clare & Harrison
9960 E Chicago
1/2 mile W of Snow Snake
Jerome, MI 49249
Ski & Golf
989-539-1448
Kris’ Splicing
www,krisssplicing.com
Brown Motors
krissplicing@att.net
170 US-31 N.
Petoskey, MI 49770
Michigan Truck Spring
231-439-3673
3649 Wolf Road
www.brownmotors.com
Saginaw, MI 48601
1-800-358-4751
Ken Mitchell’s Signs & Graphics
715 George
Ironman Offroad
Midland, MI 48640
Dale Stroebel
Brian, Stephanie Mitchell
Saginaw, MI 48609
989-835-3964
989-832-7538
ironmanoffroad@gmail.com
4BYFOURS
6148 Airline Rd.
Fruitport, MI 49415
231-206-0784
The Boondocker
20
R&V’s Dirt Riot
Dirt Riot came to Rocks and Valleys Offroad Park June
9th for the first event in the Great Lakes 2012 Dirt Riot series.
The race includes UTV’s (sxs’s), stock/modified trail rigs and
heavily modified Ultra 4 rock racing buggies. It was a huge
privilege to host such an event and Rocks and Valleys did an
excellent job in setting up a challenging course for all of the
racers. The sxs’s and modified trail rigs raced for 1 hour while
the Ultra 4’s raced for 3 hours.
Friday afternoon the racers were allowed to prerun the
course to get a feel of the lay out. I would highly suggest taking
advantage of this for future races, as one of the Ultra 4 racers
that showed up late and had not had a chance to pre-- run hit
the top of Winch hill too fast and on the boulder side. Needless
to say, he hit pretty hard and ended up breaking both of his
wrists and one of his thumbs. We wish him a speedy recovery.
Friday night was a meet and greet at the Snow Snake ski lodge
- a chance to meet the drivers and to get a close up look at the
rigs.
Weekend from page 5
by Paul W. Smith
Saturday brought race day. I was only planning on
spectating and then hitting the trails on Sunday. With a low
turnout of modified trail rigs, myself and several others got
talked into racing. Since I was the last one to leave home, I
ended up chasing down as many helmets and fire extinguishers
so we could meet the safety requirements. After having a good
qualifying time, my day was cut short as one of my control
arm brackets decided to part ways with the frame. The race
didn’t cause this, it just sped up the inevitable as after taking it
apart, it appeared that it was already cracked from previous
wheeling trips. Even though I had a little bad luck, it was a
great time and I look forward to next year. I think I will enjoy
it a little more with a little more preparation. Congrats to Joe
Zvonek on winning the modified trail class in his 5.3 powered
cherry red TJ.
Training from page 7
little tight turning steep hill with so much loose sand at the bottom
that I just got bogged down and needed a strap pull to get me up
the little hill!
Since we could get an early start without a Sunday
morning meeting to attend, we had plenty of time to enjoy
ourselves out on the dunes and got to stop for a few pictures,
have a bite to eat, etc. It was great not to be rushed and to be able
to have a full day of wheeling and still get on the road early
enough to be home at a decent hour! Thanks to GLFWDA for
holding the meeting on Saturday – I think it worked out great!
21
need a bigger crowd next time in order to actually conduct the
training. Thanks to participants Russ Clifton and Shannon
Bayliss, and to Ed Schroeder for lending a hand with the afternoon
session.
The Sundowners have expressed an interest in hosting
another 4WD Awareness class in Fall 2012 – as of now no dates
have been set, so please watch for more information on our
website www.glfwda.org
Spring 2012
The Boondocker
The Boondocker
8
22
Why Become a Member?
GLFWDA Quarterly Minutes
In unity there is strength. Great Lakes Four Wheel Drive Association is dedicated to upholding
the rights of citizens, and the continued use of public lands. Public lands belong to its citizens
to RESPECT, to PROTECT, and to ENJOY. If you support these principles, your membership will
add your voice to the millions of other recreationists who are striving to protect their rights and freedoms.
GLFWDA believes, with firm conviction, in this right and this trust. GLFWDA believes that citizens have the
right of access and to enjoy these public lands, by vehicle, as well as by other means. GLFWDA recognizes that
citizens who use these lands, in return, have an obligation to uphold the trust – to respect the land, and so
conduct their activities that the public interests are protected. We invite the cooperation of all in upholding the
right of citizens to continued use of the public lands they jointly own.
We urge individual four-wheel enthusiasts to become members of Four-Wheel Drive Clubs, or to form new clubs,
and to affiliate with the Association. We invite the support and participation of related businesses as
Supporting Associate Members of GLFWDA.
Individual Membership Application
Date: ___________________
Screen Name on GLFWDA.org_____________________________Other 4WD Affiliations:_____________________________
Name: __________________________________________________4WD Vehicle:_________________________
Address 1: ______________________________________________ Phone Number________________________
Address 2: ____________________________________________
Interets: _____Trail Rides _____Mud Bogs
City:_________________________ State:_____ Zip:___________
_____Camping
Send your completed application with your check for the $40 yearly individual dues made payable to “Great Lakes Four Wheel Drive Association” to:
Membership entitles you to receive the “Boondocker” newsletter - please include
your mailing address.
_____Rock Crawling
Pam East
2580 Liegl Drive
Alanson, MI 49706
membershipsecretary@glfwda.org
GLFWDA Associate Membership InformationI
If you own, operate, or work for a business that might be interested in being a supporting member of
GLFWDA, then we have the deal for you!
Associate Membership Benefits
· Your business information listed in The Boondocker, a
quarterly e-publication of GLFWDA.
· A Certificate of Appreciation.
· A GLFWDA Window Decal.
· Two (2) ID cards with your GLFWDA Associate
Membership number.
· A chance to be nominated Associate Member of the Year.
· A welcome to attend all GLFWDA sponsored events.
· Company exposure to four-wheel drive enthusiasts from
all over the country and all around the world through
the GLFWDA website.
Remember: No Trails = No Sales!
For more information, please visit our Associate
Membership information page:
www.glfwda.org/index.php?page=joinam
5 levels of membership for Associate Members:
· Level 1 $50/Year Receive 1 copy of The Boondocker per
issue.
· Level 2 $100/Year Receive four business card size ads per
year in The Boondocker and 5 copies of The Boondocker per
issue.
· Level 3 $150/Year Receive four quarter-page ads per year in
The Boondocker, 10 copies of The Boondocker per issue, and
a banner ad placed into rotation in the forums.
· Level 4 $200/Year Receive four half-page ads per year in
The Boondocker, 15 copies of The Boondocker per issue, and
a banner ad placed into rotation in the forums.
· Level 5 $300/Year Receive four full-page ads per year in The
Boondocker, 20 copies of The Boondocker per issue, and a
banner ad placed into rotation in the forums.
23
Spring 2012
INSIDE
G r e a t
L a k e s
F o u r
W h e e l
D r i v e
A s s o c i a t i o n
-Two Tracker’s Forest Clean-up
-Michigan Wheelers D.I. Invasion
-Training, Training , Training
-Jeeping for a Cure
-UMPA Tour
-Dirt Riot
-More!
w w w . g l f w d a . o r g
Spring 2012
Great Lakes Four Wheel Drive Assoc.
c/o Paul Hittie
2444 E. Hill Rd.
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
DATED MATERIAL DO NOT DELAY
www.glfwda.org
Spring 2012