Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE – With the arrival of snow and trails now being groomed for snowmobiles, the Star City ATV Club’s season will officially come to an end with the annual holiday party for clients of the Opportunity Training Center. “The annual Christmas party will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall on the Chapman Road from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 14,” said Kathi Howlett, club member.
Club members will assist the center in creating a party worth remembering, complete with Christmas music, delicious food and lots of laughter. Participants enjoy the annual event, spending much of their time dancing and visiting with others in attendance.
On Wednesday, Nov. 7, the club held its last meeting of the year. Members gathered for a potluck supper and various awards were given out recognizing those who’d volunteered their services throughout the year. Awards were given for 50, 100 and 300 hours of volunteer work and those honored received either gift certificates or club jackets for their efforts.
In October, the club worked with landowner Paul Cyr to erect new signs along the trail on Cyr’s land. Holes were dug for the posts and signs erected in highly-visible locations. Signs now clearly indicate where ATVs are allowed and where they shouldn’t go. Cyr had sought help from the community and club this fall, following several incidents where people using the trail had trespassed on his property due to the lack of proper signage stating the trail boundaries.
A poker run and club ride highlighted September activities. The club hosted a poker run on Sept. 16, making the loop from Presque Isle to Easton and back. Bonnie Wilcox was the lucky winner of the 50/50 drawing, walking away with $71. Winner of the poker run was Kittie Gardner, taking home $200 for first place. In second was Judy Trosper, winning $100. Sadie Billings was presented $75 for finishing in third place. On Sept. 29, club members ventured once again to the St. John Valley for their annual fall ride.
The club will be losing their public relations officer, Bob Good, in 2008. Good, who formerly served as club president, had stepped down last year, opting to serve as club spokesperson. Richard “Dick” Howlett was elected president following Good’s decision to vacate the seat. Good gave no indication for his decision to not seek re-election in 2008.
“I would like to inform everyone that I will not be running for public relations spokesperson or for the Board of Directors for the 2008 season I would like to thank all club members and all local ATV clubs for their support over the last several years as president, vice president, public relations and a board member for the Star City ATV Club,” said Good in a statement on the club’s Web site.
Good said the club was a strong organization, with much growth in past years.
“It will remain strong into the future. With great club members and landowners, the club will continue its growth,” continued Good.
That growth includes continued efforts to find the right piece of property to construct a clubhouse. Club officials hope that becomes a reality in the not-too-distant future.
Good encouraged others to keep ATVing an enjoyable family-oriented activity.
“Continue the good work of keeping the sport of ATVing alive. Please remember to thank landowners that support the club and all the volunteers that donate their time to the club. And most of all, I would like to say thank you to all,” said Good. “Ride safe, ride right and ride responsibly. Happy holidays to all.”
