Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56Summer 2016 | 5 A message from VAST President Tim Mills Letters Although it is hot out right now and we all have lots to do this summer, I can’t help but think back to all that was accomplished this past year, even after one of the worst winters in our history. Sometimes out of hard times, come good times. I have been a part of many positive conversations about what VAST needs to be doing a little differently in the future and what we have been doing right all along. One area that we have been looking at to adjust after last winter is reallocating spending to better suit all of our clubs. We need to make sure that they have the ability to maintain their current fleet of groomers, not just buy new ones. We also need to be saving money to build up reserves that will allow us to pay out to clubs even in bad times. Just like any business, VAST needs to have enough cash on hand to operate and guarantee our success in any given year. I have spent many hours this past year at committee meetings talking about our policies, strategies for success and leadership into the future. We have a great opportunity to continue to grow. We have spent significant time in the Vermont State House talking to legislators and Vermont Agencies. These conversations will only help us in times ahead. Those government leaders that we talk to need to understand the importance that VAST and snowmobiling has to Vermont’s future. I have been a part of the VAST family since I was a young lad in one way or another. I have seen many changes within my own club, county and the state. I always smile and feel proud when I think about all of the VAST members that volunteer their time and care so much about offering the best riding opportunities in the Northeast. The pride they have for their own regions and the pride they have to pass this all along to future generations is immeasurable. I am an optimist and am hopeful for a good winter this coming season. So while I work on trails, mow my yard and eat tomatoes out of my garden, I still can’t wait for that first snowfall and then the next one and the one after that! Thank you for support this past year and mostly thank you for your dedication to VAST! Ride safely and smooth trails,  - Tim Mills, VAST President DIY UTILITY BOX Deerfield Valley Stump Jumper, Jamie Stern, sent us an email showing how he fabricated this utility box for trail maintenance. He built it onto his childrens’ old downhill skis and welded a spring-loaded shock for the box to connect to his sled. The box is on two hinges and the top opens with a cable limiter. “The trails need to be maintained as hidden danger is always out there. If ALL members could spend just a half or full hour, the trails would be safer for all. Check out the easily accessible chain saw holder!” - Jamie Stern If you are interested in building a utility box like this for trail maintenance, please contact us at editor@vtvast.org and we will put you in touch with Jamie for measurements and instructions. You can also search YouTube for more construction ideas.