Late Winter 2026 | 5
VAST News
A message from VAST Vice President Mark Reaves
Everybody enjoys different 
aspects of snowmobiling, and 
usually it’s a combination of 
things. For some, it’s the chance 
to be outdoors in beautiful winter 
scenery. For others, it’s the thrill 
of riding a powerful machine. 
I know plenty of people who 
genuinely enjoy getting out to 
groom and maintain trails. And 
for many, it’s about being part of 
a community, because being a 
member of a club is exactly that.
For me, one of the things I enjoy 
most about snowmobiling is the 
people. Over the years, I’ve had 
the opportunity to meet folks from 
all across the state, throughout 
New England and even beyond.
I’ve been especially fortunate 
that my roles with my county, 
VAST and our insurance 
company, AORRG, have allowed 
me to travel not only across 
Vermont but to other regions 
of the country. Along the way, 
I’ve met so many people who 
share the same enthusiasm for 
snowmobiling that I do.
As I look back on the season 
that’s wrapping up, I’m reminded 
of just how full the past year 
has been. I’ve had the chance 
to attend a number of events 
across the Northeast, from New 
York State’s annual educational 
forum in Binghamton, to the 
International Snowmobile 
Congress in Prince Edward 
Island, to representing 
VAST at the NH Grass 
Drags in Epping and the 
Maine Powersports Show 
in Augusta, as well as 
the Northeast Chapter of 
ACSA’s winter meeting and 
ride in New Brunswick.
All of these events have 
been interesting, informative and 
valuable. They help us strengthen 
VAST and continue improving 
what we do. But if I’m being 
honest, they aren’t my favorite 
events.
My favorite events are the ones 
put on by you.
Over the past year, I’ve also 
had the pleasure of attending 
raffles and gatherings hosted 
by clubs across the state. Local 
clubs truly are the heartbeat 
of VAST. Whether it’s raffles 
in Waterbury, Middlebury, 
Barre or Island Pond, or the 
vintage snowmobile event in 
Washington, each one highlights 
the passion our members have 
for the sport. These events 
bring people together, give us a 
chance to connect with friends 
and neighbors and keep the 
excitement for snowmobiling 
alive all year long.
As we head into the off-season, 
I can honestly say I’m already 
looking forward to another year of 
potlucks, Calcutta raffles, BBQs 
and opportunities to meet and talk 
with more of you.
Now … if I could just win one of 
those raffles!
Mark Reaves, 
VAST Vice President
SEEKING SNOW 
ANGELS!
Send your Snow Angel pictures (kids 
volunteering and/or enjoying VAST 
trails and events) to editor@vtvast.
org! We will send you a t-shirt for 
your angel if we use your photo in the 
magazine.
FIND THE HELMET
Rick Bridgeman, all the way from 
North Carolina, spotted the helmet 
featured on the Sno-Bees raffle event 
table in the last issue on page 25. If you 
can find the helmet in this issue, send 
an email to editor@vtvast.org to enter 
for a chance to win a VAST T-shirt. 
Good luck and happy searching!
Get a Grip!
G
VAST discourages the use of countdown hand signals
Removing your hands from the 
handlebars while riding is unsafe. 
Vermont Association of Snow Travelers • 26 Vast Lane, Barre, VT 05641 • 802-229-0005 
www.vtvast.org
Hands on for safety!
NEXT ISSUE ARTICLE DEADLINE: Nov. 6, 2026
2025/26 was an amazing season! Have a great summer!

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