b'Annual Meetingwas no easy task. They had no fundingNortheast, particularly in Vermont. He and no equipment from the former club,created a social media group that has but that did not stop them. They workedapproximately 5,000 active members and with VAST to obtain an emergencyis steadily growing. Vermont is a prime equipment grant to purchase a Class 4destination for riders from Connecticut, grooming machine. They purchased awhere the group is based, due to its drag, and one was also donated to theproximity and good snow conditions. club. They took to social media and gotIn 2019, CT Riders was created as a the word out that they needed help.platform to share past and current riding Help came in many ways. They createdtrips in the Northern Mountains, as well a new club name and logo and ralliedEDs Award of Excellence:as funny memes about the sport and new members to join the club. TheyFrank Companik, Cavendish GM Snowbrand loyalty. The group aims to connect advertised their meetings, workdays,Fleas (and Andover, Chester, Ludlow) riders from northern states and highlight and needs. Most importantly, theythe fun and joy of snowmobiling, or embraced the help and support thatThe next award recipient is a member ofas they call it, miles of smiles. Mario came their way. What this team of folksfour local clubs in his area. He has beenis not just a passive moderatorhe did is a reminder that many peopleinvolved in the sport for 14 years, gettingactively responds to posts, creates new are dedicated to our sport and, whenactively involved right after purchasing acontent, and shares important updates needed, will step up and get things done! home in Vermont. He currently serves asabout club events, riding spots, must-see vice president of fundraising, a positionsites, lodging, food, and more. His group hes held for the past three years,has also made financial contributions organizing all fundraising and clubto several Vermont clubs, including the events, including club ride-ins, raffles,Chester Snowmobile Club, Brighton and a food booth at a local festival. TheseSnowmobile Club, and the Green events are critical for raising funds to payMountain Sno Dogs.off the clubs grooming machine loans. He previously held the officer position of Executive Director for another local club. Frank has helped build an eating area at a popular spot on the trails and has supported other clubs by working EDs Award of Excellence: Joan Choiniereevents, such as manning the grill for a Chester Snowmobile Club clubs poker run for several years. Hes The next award recipient has beenalso helped build bridges for two local an integral member of her club. Sheclubs and has worked at various VAST currently holds the officer position oftrade show booths across New York, club secretary and has for many years.New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. He She is a VAST Snowmobile Safety courseassists the county with their annual pre-instructor and is a staple at all clubseason kick-off by helping with setup, events and fundraisers, often workingbreakdown, or whatever is needed. HeCarmi Duso Award: Dennis Lemire as one of the main organizers. When itsupports his wife behind the scenes inWest Windsor Moonlighterscomes to workdays and trail projects,her leadership roles at both the county she keeps up with all the menwhetherand VAST levels. This years honoree has volunteered for its cutting back brush, moving arounddecades, serving in various roles such lumber, or screwing down planks, shesas club officer, county officer, mentor, right in the thick of it. Joan also ensuresand trail worker. Many recognize him everyone is fed and hydrated. Youfor setting standards that others in the can count on her to bring a cooler andcommunity strive to follow. His notable small grill to workdays and to put out acontributions include serving as Vice spread at club or county meetings, oftenChair of the VAST Trail Implementation baking or bringing food to nearly everyCommittee in 1997, chair of the VAST event she attends. In addition to herTrails Committee from 1998 through club and county commitments, she also2000, county president for over 20 years, helps VAST by working at trade showsand acting as club president and club and assisting with the annual meetingtrailmaster since the late 1970s. Its often registration process each year. Thesaid, Nobody runs a meeting like. nomination stated that beyond all of this,Partnership Award:when referring to Dennis, highlighting most importantly she brings her warm,Mario Dacunto, 203/860 Riders of CT his leadership and organizational skills.friendly, genuine self. The next award recipient is a social media influencer who actively promotes the sport of snowmobiling in the Early Winter 2024 | 23'