2006 Sw Stateside Ride For Charity

Don't forget the canned goods!!! [/u][/b] It is asked, but not required, that you donate canned goods before going on any of the rides or buying raffle tickets for the drawing. Must be present to win.

Count me in! Only 8 1/2 months to go.....I don't think I can wait that long. lol

I'm in! Better get back to wrenching on the sled. SWRules

I just love it when a plan comes together!! SWRules Put in for the whole week off (figure I'll take the Mrs. & the kids out around the Eagle River area on Saturday through Tuesday (weather permitting) - have alot of family around there, and then head up Tuesday night). (Someone please hit the FastForward button for summer)

I'm definately in, but I don't know if I can do the whole week..(wife will miss me too much as I am one wonderful guy). I definately want to be there for the drawings this time.

I have some knowledge of the area, if you need anything let me know. :thumbsup:

Originally posted by Mikadoo@May 10 2005, 07:06 PM The casino in Baraga is a good place to stay. Good rates, food and plenty of entertainment. If you wanted to ride from their to Copper Harbor it would be a long day. We found this a good starting point because you can go in all directions. Bruce's Crossing, Porcupine Mountains, Sidnaw, Big Bay, Calumet are all in a days ride. Hopfully gas doesn't hit $3.00 a gal. or I will be staying in ole Mid-Michigan this winter. :( 420100 We're going to Copper Harbor one day no matter where we stay and I'm already counting you in. :D So there! Hopefully we won't have to worry about the gas prices.

Originally posted by sawman@May 10 2005, 11:07 PM So where is this anyway? 420131 Houghton/Hancock area in the Keweenaw penninsula. Right here. (http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?csz=Houghton%2C+MI&state=MI&uzip=49931&ds=n&name=&desc=&ed=bWeprep_0ToQbclOdQ8k3.lPaEuwCSZ.oWjxkRhK6cHHgqx31kaec3B3qVMyJVI1wVsAU6x5opfC4aSubtx4&zoomin=yes&BFKey=&resize=s&trf=0&mag=6) Thanks for the info Jason. :thumbsup:

While I sincerely appreciate the effort for the Autism Research benefits made in the past which indeed affects my son, may I suggest an alternative this year: Cancer Research This would be a very nice benefit to honor a special person here on SW who's mother is bravely facing a very difficult and uphill battle with Cancer. Can the organizers of the both the US and Canadian ride, or their alternates, please give us an indication on whether or not this would be acceptable? Corey and all,, I would very much appreciate this as some of you know my mom is currently being treated for non-hodgkins lymphoma and has just undergone a bone marrow transplant :( Hence my absence from the boards. Treatment and care are given at Princess Margret Hospital where there are only 200 beds available for ALL of Ontario's transplant recipients. Each room is a private room with hepa filters and special equipment.Patients stays range anywhere from 2 months - 6 months depepnding on the reactions of the patient to the transplants. Each patient is also cared for by a team of nurses exclusive to each patient. I would like to see funds raised by us snowmobilers directed to this area or the lodge to which they are discharged to after hospital stay, which also includes a lengthy stay. If all goes well my mom who entered the hospital July 14 will be home by Christmas. Unfortunately at this time I have to withdraw from organizing a ride to Revelstoke/Sicamous as it is unknown if I could make the trip, and it is too far should anything go wrong and I am needed back home :( Sorry folks. Maybe those still wishing to go could have Jeepster organize this ride if he is able/willing to do it. On the flip side I would be able to organize another ride in Cochrane as if I couldnt attend it wouldnt change much other then the fact that we would not be there.We had such fun in Cochrane last year regardless of the mishaps (sorry Leezer77) I am sure Rod & Kim would LOVE to have us all back :) As for foodbank collection,, I would like to see this done at EVERY snowmobile event possible. It doesnt take much if everyone brought just 2 non-perishable items. We all rant about insurance costs, gas costs, and other costs but some out there cant even feed themselves or their families, not that we are all millionaires, but if we can help a little we should IMHO. Please let me know what you all think,, while I dont have alot of spare time right at the moment Permafrost will have the ever watchful eye open and give me the heads up. Between the "season of slavery" , my mom, and kids time is shy for me, but have faith the season of slavery is almost over YAY w00t w00t LK

Ladyk my thoughts are with you and your family.

Originally posted by mlabudda@Aug 18 2005, 05:43 PM Ladyk my thoughts are with you and your family. 428347 ditto

Kimmer, thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I would like to vote that we do donations for cancer research this year. Post your thoughts on this. On a happy note, would love to come back up to Cochrane this year. Anybody else in? JT

I know pretty much everything is etched in stone but I still have one last suggestion........Why drive across the U.P. when we can ride across the U.P.? I have done it many times and it is a blast!

Originally posted by Mikadoo@Oct 1 2005, 06:42 PM I know pretty much everything is etched in stone but I still have one last suggestion........Why drive across the U.P. when we can ride across the U.P.? I have done it many times and it is a blast! 434469 Meet me and Sledheaddude800 in Paradise tuesday AM. The only loose end we have is trying to get his spare sled out there by trailer. PS - is it time yet?

Originally posted by mlabudda@Oct 4 2005, 07:49 AM Meet me and Sledheaddude800 in Paradise tuesday AM. The only loose end we have is trying to get his spare sled out there by trailer. PS - is it time yet? 434794 What time is it???? :bash:

Mike,,,, as for riding across the UP,,,, sounds great to me, but I will be arriving up there Monday instead of Wednesday. I am sure that it could be arranged to have your vehicle and trailer picked up and taken over to the hotel, so you could ride across the UP and enjoy the entire ride and then trailer out when the ride is over,,,, its a thought for you,,, I will be in contact soon,,, I PROMISE Brian 434919 [/quote] Have my truck and trailer taken over to the motel? But why? Across the U.P. trips are always a round trip! :cool: Brian, if you sled across you would be arriving on Wed. I know from Trout Lake to Marquette is 200 miles by trail so a one nighter and then we could arrive in Houghton by 2:00 pm on Wed.

Mike, Dave and I, if we do it, will be leaving Tuesday bright and early and be doing the whole 350+ miles. JUst gotta get Daves spare sled and some clothes over :dazed:

Mike, Dave and I, if we do it, will be leaving Tuesday bright and early and be doing the whole 350+ miles. JUst gotta get Daves spare sled and some clothes over :dazed: [/b] 350 miles in one day! In Canada yes, Michigan no way! I'am in the same situation as last year. None of my buddys that are still left snowmobiling are willing to take a week off to come up so if there is any one person that wants to share expenses [ I have the truck and covered 2 place trailer] and does'nt mind a little snoring let me know. Now if times get tough such as gas hitting 4+ a gallon then I will probaly stay home.

$4 a gallon is all the more reason to spend a full week in da up. less travel expense per trip. As for the the 350 in one day... piece of cake. Just that means no play time on the side.

Sledding can never seem like work. I am at work right now and would give anything to have 300+ miles on right now instead.

I am at work right now and would give anything to have 300+ miles on right now instead. [/b] :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Brian, Send me a copy of that letter. I am going to hit the yamaha and polaris dealer near my house, I get some things from them. You still want to come up and go to DZ Barn with me? I can go anytime after the 28th, I need to buy some things from them anyway. One measly drink huh. Guess I will make it an iced tea then, long island iced tea that is :devil:

Arriving on the 15th---Departing on the 21st 2 of us. SWRules Are we there yet?????

sledheaddude800 and I will be in Paradise Saturday-Monday. Leaving at the crack of dawn via sleds on tuesday. getting hammered in houghton by 6ish. Ride wed-friday with the group and leaving Saturday AM via sleds, hung over :whatever: , and riding back to paradise. Drive back to toledo on Sunday, Anyone else? Brian I am going out to get some stuff from DZ thursday or friday, you want to give me a letter and talk to them or do you want to wait until you can go? Dave and I were in there Saturday, he is starting to move some sleds. They are doing some grass drags like Nov 12th, might want to go then. Is it time yet?

Donna and I will be there for the whole week along with our Polaris friends, Scott & Terri. So count us in for four. 4 Come on everyone!! Don't miss out on this years event. It's gonna be a hoot!!! :tongue: :thumbsup:

sledheaddude800 and I will be in Paradise Saturday-Monday. Leaving at the crack of dawn via sleds on tuesday. getting hammered in houghton by 6ish. Ride wed-friday with the group and leaving Saturday AM via sleds, hung over :whatever: , and riding back to paradise. Drive back to toledo on Sunday, Anyone else? Brian I am going out to get some stuff from DZ thursday or friday, you want to give me a letter and talk to them or do you want to wait until you can go? Dave and I were in there Saturday, he is starting to move some sleds. They are doing some grass drags like Nov 12th, might want to go then. Is it time yet? [/b] You are on the move Budda! :thumbsup: This will be the BIGGEST and best trip for me! SD Can't wait! Is it SNOWING yet!

I'm in. Will have 2, maybe 3 more with me.

I am in if I can find a room mate. Take the mate part of that VERY Serieously too! lol I am cudlley and don't snore very loud (I think. I am always asleep so not real sure). Anybody? Bueler? Bueler? If I can really find someone on here to room with I am in for sure. If there are any sledders going that need someone to help cut the cost give me a shout. The best part is we can be bestest buddies and have :withstupid: T-shirts made and "stuff".

I am in if I can find a room mate. Take the mate part of that VERY Serieously too! lol I am cudlley and don't snore very loud (I think. I am always asleep so not real sure). Anybody? Bueler? Bueler? If I can really find someone on here to room with I am in for sure. If there are any sledders going that need someone to help cut the cost give me a shout. The best part is we can be bestest buddies and have :withstupid: T-shirts made and "stuff". [/b] :lmao: :lmao: Great Post, I know we can find someone for ya, Mikadoo, you still looking?

So far I'am. Did some E-mailing yesterday but have'nt heard back yet. Could a 29 year old get along wit a 52 year old? Probaly if he rides a Skidoo :sarcasm:

So far I'am. Did some E-mailing yesterday but have'nt heard back yet. Could a 29 year old get along wit a 52 year old? Probaly if he rides a Skidoo :sarcasm: [/b] There is a 28, 29 and 30 yr old planning on going. And I think you can get along with all of them. (as long as you don't make fun of there username LOL)

I am not an average 29 year old. My "stuff" is much more limp and not as much fire in the arsh. You can ask Idooski about me. He is like a best friend and dad to me so you might get some mixed answers though.

There is a 28, 29 and 30 yr old planning on going. And I think you can get along with all of them. (as long as you don't make fun of there username LOL) [/b] Heck, I can get along with just about anyone that rides a sled, were all a special kind of people!

I am really getting excited!!!! We are less than 90 days away!!!! I have some items here from Wells Cargo and got confirmation today that Arvin Meritor (ryde fx) will be sending some items also. Last time I talked to the hotel, we only had 4 or 5 rooms booked,,, I will be calling back up soon for an update. Lets get our rooms booked asap because its first come first served. I know the best rooms will go first. Anyone else getting excited??? Its a great trip and we are really helping 2 great causes (breast cancer research and the local foodbank in Houghton) Lets make this the best one yet!!!!

I am really getting excited!!!! We are less than 90 days away!!!! I have some items here from Wells Cargo and got confirmation today that Arvin Meritor (ryde fx) will be sending some items also. Last time I talked to the hotel, we only had 4 or 5 rooms booked,,, I will be calling back up soon for an update. Lets get our rooms booked asap because its first come first served. I know the best rooms will go first. Anyone else getting excited??? Its a great trip and we are really helping 2 great causes (breast cancer research and the local foodbank in Houghton) Lets make this the best one yet!!!! [/b] Brian, I am getting excited also. I will be bringing the tow rope this year also. Perhaps I may need it this year. LOL... I hope the couple that came last year and had to go home early because of an unexpected breakdown makes it this year, anyone know how to get a hold of them?

Brian, I am getting excited also. I will be bringing the tow rope this year also. Perhaps I may need it this year. LOL... I hope the couple that came last year and had to go home early because of an unexpected breakdown makes it this year, anyone know how to get a hold of them? [/b] Put me down for have been excited all along! LOL Think this is going to be a trip for the history books. Our personal history books anyways :D I hope to hear from Kevin & Katie and maybe a couple others on Novi weekend. There break down turned out to be something stupid, like an unplugged wire or something. But it was kinda deep in the chassis, took some digging to find it.

There break down turned out to be something stupid, like an unplugged wire or something. [/b] OMG I would be suicidal!!!!! Well I will say a silent prayer or something and that is that everything is safe and works out well for the ride and the other is that Kid Rocker doesn't drink to much and think I am cuter than I really am at night!

OMG I would be suicidal!!!!! [/b] They did mention something about drowning there sorrows... :lookaround:

Ok guys and gals I am just throwing this out there. As it stands right now I am all set with transportation to and from the ride. My problem is that something MAY come up that I am not able to catch that bus. I may not be able to leave until Sunday night. So if anyone would fit this please let me knwo so that I can have a back up plan. I will be unable to attend if I have to drive up. Stupid truck sucks big time of fuel and I would just sit at the hotel and make gumbo all week. In Kalamazoo MI. Would be availible after 5pm eastern time on Sunday the 15th. Is anyone passing through this way at or after that time to go up north? I would gladly help with costs and maybe even buy dinner for driving so much lol. Thanks for any help.

Paul, one way or the other we will get you there. If needed and if it is ok with Dave we will adjust to pick you up. The earlier the better on Sunday would be great. Brian

Very cool man. What is the route you are taking up there? Trying to figure out where I can meet you guys and what time would be best. Depending on what is going on I will send my sled with Idooski and Donna so it would just be me to jump in. Like I said this thing is suppossed to go from Noon till 4pm. It is in downtown Battle Creek but I live in Portage right off of 131. Exit 31 (centre ave) on 131 to be exact. What kind of times are you guys thinking you will be coming through here? I do not want anyone to go out of the way for me. I hate that this is coming up and I am hoping to blow it off and just go Friday with Idooski. I have got to stop coming to this thread....My heart is speeding up just thinking about going. Everything about it sounds fun. I Can't wait!

hey paul you cite a possibility for you not going is because of cost towing by yourself. Well I have an idea. If you go with keith he has a spot for your sled correct? well if you don't go with him then he has an open spot. Well send your sled with him (for $20) and drive the more fuel efficient vehicle up. Just a suggestion if Brian doesn't want to wait that long on Sunday.

Great Idea. Idooski already mentioned that as well. Must be a sledhead way of thinkin. I am just trying to line everything up to figure out what is going to be best for me. Thanks for the reply.

I'll be there with the wife and or? And I suppose you guys want me to get more loot for the raffle this year? :D

Just make sure you bring an extra front bumper. :lmao:

Just make sure you bring an extra front bumper. :lmao: [/b] :blush:

Just make sure you bring an extra front bumper. :lmao: [/b] Jeff, that was good! :D As you always say and I quote: "Wow"

We need more people for the ride. Come on guys and book a room and come have a great time with us. We knwo you are itching to go for a ride so get down (or up ) here and have a blast with us. Looks like we have around 9-10 rooms booked but we need twice as many people there. I would like to see this list as big as the cochrane ride and then everybody from the first list go to the cochrane ride as well.

Alright I'm finally ready to commit, it will be myself and RenegadeMike for now. Just need to call the hotel and get me a room, or maybe I'll have my wife call and see if she can get me a travel agent rate :thumbsup: :p

Alright I'm finally ready to commit, it will be myself and RenegadeMike for now. Just need to call the hotel and get me a room, or maybe I'll have my wife call and see if she can get me a travel agent rate :thumbsup: :p [/b] about time for the guy that knows the key the best to sign up. :thumbsup:

Alright I'm finally ready to commit, it will be myself and RenegadeMike for now. Just need to call the hotel and get me a room, or maybe I'll have my wife call and see if she can get me a travel agent rate :thumbsup: :p [/b] Man...... NOW I am ready to Ride. Thank GOD your in!!!! I was a little worried. :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

We need more people for the ride. Come on guys and book a room and come have a great time with us. We knwo you are itching to go for a ride so get down (or up ) here and have a blast with us. Looks like we have around 9-10 rooms booked but we need twice as many people there. I would like to see this list as big as the cochrane ride and then everybody from the first list go to the cochrane ride as well. [/b] Holy cow! Where do I sign up for a second mortgage? w00t

about time for the guy that know the key the best to sign up. :thumbsup: [/b] Man...... NOW I am ready to Ride. Thank GOD your in!!!! I was a little worried. :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: [/b] Well Matt I wouldn't say I know the Key as well as you think, gotta give lots of credit to Mr. Gps :tongue: . When we don't see any other tracks and the powders coming over the hood, then we know where headed in the right direction :wink: . You going to slap a paddle track on the 01 Dave, maybe a Ripsaw or a 1.75 :thumbsup: The Key always has a way of making you wish you had more rubber on the down side. Man am I really getting syched now, the trip is coming up fast. w00t w00t

I'm going to be a little better prepared... :thumbsup:

I'll need help getting unstuck :whistling:

I'll need help getting unstuck :whistling: [/b] I'll bring a tow rope Matt :lmao: Well Matt I wouldn't say I know the Key as well as you think, gotta give lots of credit to Mr. Gps :tongue: . When we don't see any other tracks and the powders coming over the hood, then we know where headed in the right direction :wink: . You going to slap a paddle track on the 01 Dave, maybe a Ripsaw or a 1.75 :thumbsup: The Key always has a way of making you wish you had more rubber on the down side. Man am I really getting syched now, the trip is coming up fast. w00t w00t [/b] Just pack down all that powder Jason F. I'll keep up!!!! Wont need that Ripsaw or 1.75 track! :lmao: I HOPE :lmao:

1. puree 2. jtkennedy9 3. Tom Kennedy (jt's father) 4. Johnnie (jt's cousin) 5. snow4brains 6. guest with snow4brains 7. mlabudda 8. sledheaddude800 9. idooski 10. Donna (idooski's wife) 11. Scott (idooski's friend & 2nd year) 12. Terri (Scott's wife) 13. Fist 14. mxzwfo 15. kidrocker 16. RollerDoo 17. Chicky_Doo 18. mxz7 19. mxz7's wife 20. JasonF 21. RenegadeMike I am having a really tough time getting out of some work that is popping up at the beggining of this week. I am trying to get out of it or streamline a way for me to do it on the way or when I get up there via internet. I am not having a lot of luck though. I will be availible at the end of the week but funds are not allowing me to drive up there and still be able to do any riding or eating for that matter. I have about a $600-$700 total budget and that is looking like it is not enough as it is without the $500 in fuel for the trip. So I am still working on it but just wanted to update the list so that there are no suprizes on my end.

if you end up bunking with 3 people per room, you end up getting the room for 88$ a night split 3 ways,,,, thats only about 160$ with tax included for 5 nights,,, if you also find someone to ride up with and split the gas with them, that will cut that bill down something feirce also. If things work out and I am able to go, I will have less than 600$ on me, and that will be plenty to make this trip. I dont think I spent 200$ on gas last year in Newberry and that includes the trip up and back. Fight the system, make the trip, would love to see you there. Have a great one, Brian

Keep us posted Paul. I hope you can work it out. Brian

Why is budda's name crossed out?

that is the week of his wifes meetings and doesnt look like he can get away,,, maybe we should stop through and kidnap him (and his sled) for that week,,,, we could return him afterwards (unharmed and smiling) of course!!!

I think the kid would be very unhappy being left home with the cat and dog :crazy: That is why I am thinking about going to the other ride JT.

I think the kid would be very unhappy being left home with the cat and dog :crazy: That is why I am thinking about going to the other ride JT. [/b] Uh Oh, looks like SHD8 will be the only one to see the Keys finest spots :lol: Maybe something will change between now and then, stranger things have happened :wink:

Uh Oh, looks like SHD8 will be the only one to see the Keys finest spots :lol: Maybe something will change between now and then, stranger things have happened :wink: [/b] :undercover: Sshhh the fat lady has not sung yet, do not wake the sleeping fat lady :undercover: I made a promise and i intend to keep Jason. sleeping off all the aches and pains from this year and dreaming bout where I am going to take her next year. I whispered to her about the SW annual ride and a week full of of sledding before she was tucked in, you should have seen the excitement in those headlights before the fogging oil stalled her out.[/b] "post # 900 +/- in a cory9 thread last spring"

I am having a really tough time getting out of some work that is popping up at the beggining of this week. I am trying to get out of it or streamline a way for me to do it on the way or when I get up there via internet. I am not having a lot of luck though. I will be available at the end of the week but funds are not allowing me to drive up there and still be able to do any riding or eating for that matter. I have about a $600-$700 total budget and that is looking like it is not enough as it is without the $500 in fuel for the trip. So I am still working on it but just wanted to update the list so that there are no suprizes on my end. [/b] Not sure where you are coming up with the $500 in fuel costs. Maybe you can explain. This is what I come up with from Kalamazoo for my Dodge hauling a 4 place trailer getting the worst milage possible and with fuel costs at $3/gal which is $.50 higher per gal than what it is right now: Truck Fuel 1100 miles @ 11MPG = 100 gallons of fuel x $3/gal = $300 It is 550 miles to Houghton from the 'Zoo. 1100 miles round trip. Sled Fuel 100 miles/day @10MPG = 10 gal of fuel x $3/gal = $30/day x 5 days = $150 So...total fuel costs for me to haul 4 sleds and ride 100 miles a day for 5 days will be $450 for the whole trip. So even if you had to come up late in the mini van, you would spend way less than what you have listed. Your van gets 20MPG? Or close to it. That cuts you fuel cost in half right there. Plus gas is cheaper than diesel by at least $.50 right now. Your sled will get at least 12MPG, so that is cheaper than my estimate. This is what I see for your costs for fuel: Van 1100 miles @ 20MPG = 55 gallons of fuel x $2.5/gal = $137.50 Sled Fuel 100 miles/day @12MPG = 8.33 gal of fuel x $3/gal = $25/day x 3 days = $75 I see $212.50 in total fuel costs for the trip if you can find someone to haul your sled for you. (should be no problem) Add in $50 for oil for a total of $262.50 You already are set up to split a room 3 ways so you are in a room for $30/night for 3 nights for a total lodging bill of $100. Running total of 362.50 so far. Breakfast is free. Dinner each night for $15 maximum x 3 nights = $45 (you are invited to eat with us in our room if you like. Just pitch in on food to make it even cheaper. Running total = $407.50 If you have $500 and can find someone to haul your sled, you should be able to afford to go even driving yourself up there. I have to admit that there will be other expenses, but most are covered here. Hope to hear that you are going to remove the strike-out from your name. What have I missed guys?

I have yet to hear the fat lady sing, which is why the strikethru and not deleted. Will know by friday and will let you guys know. Dave I was thinking, if they move the meeting until the last week of January we might be riding across again :rolleyes:

Not sure where you are coming up with the $500 in fuel costs. Maybe you can explain. This is what I come up with from Kalamazoo for my Dodge hauling a 4 place trailer getting the worst milage possible and with fuel costs at $3/gal which is $.50 higher per gal than what it is right now: Truck Fuel 1100 miles @ 11MPG = 100 gallons of fuel x $3/gal = $300 It is 550 miles to Houghton from the 'Zoo. 1100 miles round trip. [/b] I agree. I will get about the same if I pull my sled up there. Sled Fuel 100 miles/day @10MPG = 10 gal of fuel x $3/gal = $30/day x 5 days = $150 So...total fuel costs for me to haul 4 sleds and ride 100 miles a day for 5 days will be $450 for the whole trip. [/b] I still agree so far. So even if you had to come up late in the mini van, ........[/b] This is not an option. Your sled will get at least 12MPG, so that is cheaper than my estimate. Sled Fuel 100 miles/day @12MPG = 8.33 gal of fuel x $3/gal = $25/day x 3 days = $75 if you can find someone to haul your sled for you. (should be no problem) Add in $50 for oil You already are set up to split a room 3 ways so you are in a room for $30/night for 3 nights for a total lodging bill of $100.[/b] So $150 (going high) for sled gas and oil and $300 for fuel. Still at $450 without food and hotel. 5 nights (not 3) at $30 per is $150. $125-$150 in food puts me at $750 on the high side before anything breaks down. Yes I can always cut back on this or that and make it on what I have. My thing here is I do not like to be a begger and want to be comfortable. If I can't treat this as a fun vacation type getaway then I would rather not go and save up for the next one. If you have $500 and can find someone to haul your sled, you should be able to afford to go even driving yourself up there. I have to admit that there will be other expenses, but most are covered here. [/b] I figure $300 for the drive up pulling the sled so I need to contribute there. I am splitting that by three if I can ride with the guys so $100 there. Plus the $150 for sled gas we are at $250. Now add the $300 in hotel and food and we are within reach without killing the budget for paying bills the next months after that. Now with all this being said I have other things stopping me greater than money. The kids mom is refusing to help me out so I have to not only pay for daycare but find one and get it set up as well. So all of a sudden we are talking more money now. $25 per kid per day. The week rate for them is $210 at the place I have found. Whoops $550 just became $760. Now we are maxing my original budget pretty bad. We are talking $1000 if I have to drive up there and everything "is what it is" from above. So now everyone has an inside look into my little world here. I have gotten a few sponsers for the ride so I really really hope to go up there and hang out with everyone. I am not deleted off the list yet just was advising of the "situmoation".

I have yet to hear the fat lady sing, which is why the strikethru and not deleted. Will know by friday and will let you guys know. Dave I was thinking, if they move the meeting until the last week of January we might be riding across again :rolleyes: [/b] :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Time is coming up quick!!! Has everybody made their hotel reservations? The ride is a little over 6 weeks away!! Brian

Time is coming up quick!!! Has everybody made their hotel reservations? The ride is a little over 6 weeks away!! Brian [/b] Yeah this is a good thing to think about. Will I be sleeping with you or rocker? heheeee Can't wait to hang out with you guys. I really hope I can get everything worked out so I can go.

Wow! I hope you guys are able to book 20 rooms. What will the price be if you dont?

Wow! I hope you guys are able to book 20 rooms. What will the price be if you dont? [/b] Mike, I don't see your name on that list. You better be there. We have some adult beverages to share stories over. LOL.... First one is on me. :D Yeah this is a good thing to think about. Will I be sleeping with you or rocker? heheeee Can't wait to hang out with you guys. I really hope I can get everything worked out so I can go. [/b] Will I be sleeping with you or rocker? heheeee Be very careful what you wish for. Brian will be jealous over that remark. :inlove: LOL... We already discussed the fact that "YOU" are sleeping on the rollaway. I know Keith will vouch for that. :wink:

Wow, am I thankful I'm in another room. You guys are scaring me! lol

[quote] Mike, I don't see your name on that list. You better be there. We have some adult beverages to share stories over. LOL.... First one is on me. :D Not looking to good there Dave, cant find anyone to share expences with. :cussing:

Mike, we will keep you in mind here,,,, if all goes well, Jeff and I area heading up together (I think) and Ryan (catrules2000) may be right there with us (I think) and I am almost sure that Marty (gone_awol) wont be able to go (I think) so it appears we should have an open seat and trailer space (I think),,, Brian

Brian, not looking to mooch a ride, I have the truck and covered trailer just need 1 other to share gas and room. Just cant find anyone willing to take a week off from work.

Uh Oh, looks like SHD8 will be the only one to see the Keys finest spots :lol: Maybe something will change between now and then, stranger things have happened :wink: [/b] Yeah but NOW I need a partner I am going to be In Paradise till Monday. Was gonna ride across the U.P. with budda now I am stuck. Can anyone help? Gotta get my sled from Paradise to Houghton then back home to Ohio. Mlk weekend is the traditional ride with my friends. Can get sled there but...... yeah you get it.......I hope...... Hopefully Budda can make it. I am praying hard on this one boys!

Yeah but NOW I need a partner I am going to be In Paradise till Monday. Was gonna ride across the U.P. with budda now I am stuck. Can anyone help? Gotta get my sled from Paradise to Houghton then back home to Ohio. Mlk weekend is the traditional ride with my friends. Can get sled there but...... yeah you get it.......I hope...... Hopefully Budda can make it. I am praying hard on this one boys! [/b] Let me know if I can help you out at all. I wont know my exact schedule though unil we get closer to the event.

Let me know if I can help you out at all. I wont know my exact schedule though unil we get closer to the event. [/b] I will keep you posted! Jason F. thanks a million. See Keith I didn't give up! :thumbsup: I got faith in my S.W. family! :D

what about sd800 and Mike heading up together,,,, Mike, I know you werent trying to mooch a ride, but I was thinking that with us coming through your area on the way up with an empty seat and an open spot on a trailer,,,, I am sure we can find a roommate for you also,,,,

I will keep you posted! Jason F. thanks a million. See Keith I didn't give up! :thumbsup: I got faith in my S.W. family! :D [/b] We'll get you there.

SHD800 don't forget about sludgemagnet and his 1 little sled on a 2 place trailer. All you need is a ride from paradise to hancock and back. sludgy would love to split gas on the way home on Sunday. That being said, Still listening for fat ladies singing :whistling:

Matt, the fat lady will be on vaction and has lost her voice and forgot the words. So I would not worry about it. If sombody wants something, they will figure a way to get it!!!! SEE YA AT HOUGHTON! Brian

We'll get you there. [/b] Just remember I will be in Paradise till Monday. Then my friends are heading home and I will be going........................... hopefully west!!!! :thumbsup: SHD800 don't forget about sludgemagnet and his 1 little sled on a 2 place trailer. All you need is a ride from paradise to hancock and back. sludgy would love to split gas on the way home on Sunday. That being said, Still listening for fat ladies singing :whistling: [/b] Is he going on the S.W. Ride???

doubt it but he might be able to give you a ride to the border. If you thumb it from paradise to houghton and back he might find room to get you home. share gas that way

Does anybody have anymore sponser info that we need to post? If so, please PM myself, idooski, or puree so we can get the list updated! The ride is 5 weeks away!! Can you smell the 2 stroke! Brian

Brian, can you guys get me sponsor logos for the shirts?

This is making me sick......I so bad want to go on this ride!!!!! Only hold back is I have my son starting @ 6pm on the 18th for 5 days. I'll ask the ex-wife if she'll trade weeks with me but that's not usually an option with her. I think it will go something like this "Absolutely not!!!!! If your fun is more important than spending time with Hunter then you do what you have to do" Ofcourse she totally over looks the fact that I start out by asking if she would trade some days so Hunter and I wouldn't miss any time together!!!! I'll give it try..............

FastBlack800Cat, are you going up by yourself? I will be going thru Saginaw if I go so maybe we could share expences?? Plan on leaving Monday morning and coming home on Saturday. Tell the X You will trade double time this summer hehe. I see you like river riding, I ride the Bad and Saginaw when I can. 2 years ago we rode from St. Charles to the fest at Tawas, 190 miles of ice and 6.8 MPG did'nt get it but I can say I did it.

This is making me sick......I so bad want to go on this ride!!!!! Only hold back is I have my son starting @ 6pm on the 18th for 5 days. I'll ask the ex-wife if she'll trade weeks with me but that's not usually an option with her. I think it will go something like this "Absolutely not!!!!! If your fun is more important than spending time with Hunter then you do what you have to do" Ofcourse she totally over looks the fact that I start out by asking if she would trade some days so Hunter and I wouldn't miss any time together!!!! I'll give it try.............. [/b] Good luck, buddy!! I sure hope to see you there.

Mikadoo....the sharing cost sounds fine to me. That's a big fuel bill at 12mpg in the truck pulling a trailer. Gonna try and work that out tomorrow morning with the ex.... I'm not going to get my hopes up to high though....she's not real pleasant. She's broke and I'm not so these trips really #### her off!!!!!! If I can make it I more than likely would try to go up with JasonF and Renegademike, from Burt just south of Saginaw. I've ridden with them quite a bit and they have a 4 plc enclosed versus my 2 plc enclosed. They are always looking to share the cost of a trip so you may want to get with JasonF also.....I think there is only 2 of them going at this point. Anyway....gonna try to work this out, but I am leaving for Texas tomorrow morning on a hunting trip, so I'll be out of the loop for a week. Be back on-line the 19th.....

Good luck on your hunting trip! I know what you are saying about the ex. Even after they are gone, they still try to control your life. The children are the most important thing but, quality time is what they remember. Good luck!

One of the reasons for having this ride in the houghton area was to get more of our Wi. And Mn. Brothers and sister to come ride in this event. Were are you guys? This is going to be a great ride!! Try to make plans and join us!!!! Brian

Brian, not looking to mooch a ride, I have the truck and covered trailer just need 1 other to share gas and room. Just cant find anyone willing to take a week off from work. [/b] You won't be mooching. I'm sure they will charge you, but it will be cheaper than splitting the fuel 2 ways. Mikadoo....the sharing cost sounds fine to me. That's a big fuel bill at 12mpg in the truck pulling a trailer. [/b] Only $75/ea with 4 people.

Sorry to be a downer but I will not be able to make it guys. Today the dates for the Wifes meeting was finally set for the week of Jan 16th. She will be out of town and with being a family man I can't get away that week. So now I am on to planning for the cochrane ride....... Sorry guys, I actually was the one that pushed for this week 9 months ago. (at that point this meeting was scheduled for this week) Don't leave sledheaddude800 behind!

Ok, I talked to the hotel today and we only have 6 rooms booked. We need to get calling up there and getting our rooms booked. They gave us a good deal on rooms, but if we dont get them filled, we may end up paying a higher price. I did get them to extend the date for holding the rooms till the 30th of December. I will be getting back in touch with the hotel around then to see what kind of progress we have made and update everyone then. COME ON SLEDDIN BROTHERS!!!!! Whats holding you back from the best ride of the year????

The ride is coming up quick!!! Need to start making plans! Brian

Sorry to be a downer but I will not be able to make it guys. Today the dates for the Wifes meeting was finally set for the week of Jan 16th. She will be out of town and with being a family man I can't get away that week. So now I am on to planning for the cochrane ride....... Sorry guys, I actually was the one that pushed for this week 9 months ago. (at that point this meeting was scheduled for this week) Don't leave sledheaddude800 behind! [/b] Thanks Matt! Yeah but NOW I need a partner I am going to be In Paradise till Monday. Was gonna ride across the U.P. with budda now I am stuck. Can anyone help? Gotta get my sled from Paradise to Houghton then back home to Ohio. Mlk weekend is the traditional ride with my friends. Can get sled there but...... yeah you get it.......I hope...... Hopefully Budda can make it. I am praying hard on this one boys! [/b] Will drive Got trailer need a buddy!Got the WHOLE week off!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :thumbsup: Let me know if I can help you out at all. I wont know my exact schedule though unil we get closer to the event. [/b] What day DOO you plan on leaving Jason F. Do you by chance are trying to get the whole week off?

Dave, when are you heading up to the UP? The weekend before, or are you heading up on Monday?

Thanks Matt! Will drive Got trailer need a buddy!Got the WHOLE week off!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :thumbsup: What day DOO you plan on leaving Jason F. Do you by chance are trying to get the whole week off? [/b] I may have to work on Tuesday so that was why I hadn't nailed down my exact schedule yet. If I have to work we will be driving up Tues night or Wed morning, if not we will just leave Tues morning. Whats your week look like?

I need to touch base with my highway buddys. I think it was Brian and Kid. If you guys see this give me a shout and let me knwo what is going on please. Look forward to trying to keep up. 269-353-4459 Home

Dave, when are you heading up to the UP? The weekend before, or are you heading up on Monday? [/b] Heading to Paradise Friday after work the 13th for my traditional ride with my friends then they are leaving Monday and I am......... I would like someone to join me thats what Budda was going to doo. For the entire week.I would even leave Sat. morn. the 14th if I had too.

I may have to work on Tuesday so that was why I hadn't nailed down my exact schedule yet. If I have to work we will be driving up Tues night or Wed morning, if not we will just leave Tues morning. Whats your week look like? [/b] I would like to find someone to spend the entire week with. Budda was gonna doo that but as you know now he can't. And I will not blow my friends off cause they have depended on my for years to be their team leader. Just ask Snofrog. they can only get a couple of trips in a year with me cause of their familys. Like I said I will be in Paradise till Monday.then I don't know??? Monday morning.

We may have two more people coming to the ride. Not sure yet but they seemed interested. Fromw what I am seeing we need to try and figure out how much the rooms are going to be without booking a lot of them. I only see 10 rooms at the MOST booked witht he list we have. If the price given was for 30 rooms and we only have two more weeks and that is during Christmas I do not think we are going to fill it. I am still lineing up everything with my timeline as well as money but its looking good. I look forward to seeing you guys there so lets get on the list and get your rooms booked.

Well I'm still working on the ex-wife but it's going pretty much as I expected...... She's not to good at agreeing to anything that would benefit me in anyway!!!! :cussing: :cussing: So I'm gonna try this at a different angle....I see some of you folks will be up there for the whole week. How many people are actually going to be there the 14th-18th.... I am open on those dates but it looks like I will have to be home by 6pm on the 18th to pick Hunter up from his mom's so I would have to leave the morning of the 18th. Anyone else interested in going the first half of the week instead of the second half and maybe sharing some of the costs???

I'll be getting in on the 16th, late afternoon-early evening. Will have a puree and a couple of others with me. There should be a decent size group to ride on the 17th.

nmbrone and I will arrive evening of the 15th, be ready to make tracks Monday morning.

I'll be getting in on the 16th, late afternoon-early evening. Will have a puree and a couple of others with me. There should be a decent size group to ride on the 17th. [/b] Jeff, stop by the house on the way up, I will fix you a drink. LOL.. :D

My crew will be arriving the 16th. Probably late in the afternoon. We will be staying all week until Saturday.

Jeff, stop by the house on the way up, I will fix you a drink. LOL.. :D [/b] If it makes it easier, you can bring it up with you. lol Can I place my order now?

Catmanchree and I just made our reservations last night. Might have two others coming up as well not sure on them two though. This will be our first SW ride and cant wait!!!!!

You guys will end up making this a yearly trip!!! I had an absolute blast last year and it is now my premier trip of the year. Glad to hear you guys are heading up. When are you planning on heading up and then coming home?? Jeff and I as well as his father and cousin will probably be heading out of the Ft Wayne area Monday, maybe we can ride up as a group.

You guys will end up making this a yearly trip!!! I had an absolute blast last year and it is now my premier trip of the year. Glad to hear you guys are heading up. When are you planning on heading up and then coming home?? Jeff and I as well as his father and cousin will probably be heading out of the Ft Wayne area Monday, maybe we can ride up as a group. [/b] We are planning on heading UP EARLY :dazed: on Tuesday morning and leaving late Friday morning.

Let me know if I can help you out at all. I wont know my exact schedule though unil we get closer to the event. [/b] How many are going with you Jason F. If worse comes to worse I'll go with plan B. It won't effect you any just me! :bash: Got room for 1 or 2 sleds? if any? Later Dave Dave, when are you heading up to the UP? The weekend before, or are you heading up on Monday? [/b] Friday after work the 13th!

How many are going with you Jason F. If worse comes to worse I'll go with plan B. It won't effect you any just me! :bash: Got room for 1 or 2 sleds? if any? Later Dave [/b] So far its just two of us so that leaves two spots in the trailer and even one more in the bed of the truck if necessary. Fastblack800cat may ride with us but thats a long shot plus I'm trying to talk my other buddy ScottMc into going as well but he won't know until the week previous due to him owning his own construction business. Anyways to make a long story short I should have space for two sleds. :thumbsup:

So far its just two of us so that leaves two spots in the trailer and even one more in the bed of the truck if necessary. Fastblack800cat may ride with us but thats a long shot plus I'm trying to talk my other buddy ScottMc into going as well but he won't know until the week previous due to him owning his own construction business. Anyways to make a long story short I should have space for two sleds. :thumbsup: [/b] And what day are WE leaving from your doorstep! If this all pans out? :thumbsup:

Finally got the reservations taken care of :thumbsup: . Looking forward to seeing everyong in a couple weeks, hopefully this weather turns in our favor soon.

As of now it looks pretty good for the area. Just got back from the Irons area in the NWL and did not think I was going to be able to ride but, the trails east and north were in decent shape with NO traffic. Had to ride a little snirt in some open areas but the rest was good. Brian

I was in Houghton in June with the family units on vacation.It was some beautiful scenery.We toured a mine,hit some beaches,went thru the ghost towns,shopping,lots of sight seeing,did some metal detecting. So anyways,now I will be able to see this area in all white.Never been that far west to ride before so this area will be new to me snowmobiling wise.I am looking forward to seeing all of last years attendies and the newbies.Laurie was going to come with me but that didn't work out so Digger Dan is coming again. See you all soon! Pete

If you havent made your reservation, you should be making it quick. I will be calling the hotel to reduce the number of rooms held hoping that they will still hold a few for a week or two longer. You dont want to get up there and find there are no more rooms available,,,,,

Pete, good to see that Dan is coming back with you. You guys rock!

drove to paradise last week, fuel costs from cental Indiana and back $240 ,pulling a 4 place enclosed steel trailer. so idooskis guess is going to be pretty close maybe a lil high now. if mxzwfo and kid rocker want to use my trailer that hauls 4 feel free to. my local buds want to ride that week so I will try and talk them into going up there. I need to see my work calander that week , I may be coming up.

Disaster may have struck me Friday night. We were suppossed to get 3-5 inches of snow so I decided to run down and get some gas for my snowmobile. I get the gas and pull off and the truck dies. It for some reason burned up the altinator and some of the wireing harness. One battery is shot as well so this is going to come out of my play money for sure. Right after Christmas is not the time for this to happen. So it is back tothe drawing board on making sure I can get the money together in two weeks time. Still looking forward to meeting you guys so not giving up this fight yet. With all this stupid weather down south Michigan will there even be snow up there?

drove to paradise last week, fuel costs from cental Indiana and back $240 ,pulling a 4 place enclosed steel trailer. so idooskis guess is going to be pretty close maybe a lil high now. if mxzwfo and kid rocker want to use my trailer that hauls 4 feel free to. my local buds want to ride that week so I will try and talk them into going up there. I need to see my work calander that week , I may be coming up. [/b] Barry, the only way we would borrow your trailer is if you and your sled are going. Hope we will be pulling your trailer, you need to go. Heck, we will even get another rollaway for you. It would be cheaper lodging for all of us. :D

How many of you are really getting the itch BAD!!!! REAL REAL BAD!!!!

How many of you are really getting the itch BAD!!!! REAL REAL BAD!!!! [/b] Lets see... was up till 3AM this morning thinking, spare carbides, spare belts, pad locks, canned goods, oh man I almost forgot to write down injector oil, and tooth brush, long underwear... LOL Yep, I'm itching bad! :thumbsup:

We are planning on heading UP EARLY :dazed: on Tuesday morning and leaving late Friday morning. [/b] Tha raffle is on Friday night and you must be present to win. Is it possible to change your departure time? drove to paradise last week, fuel costs from cental Indiana and back $240 ,pulling a 4 place enclosed steel trailer. so idooskis guess is going to be pretty close maybe a lil high now. if mxzwfo and kid rocker want to use my trailer that hauls 4 feel free to. my local buds want to ride that week so I will try and talk them into going up there. I need to see my work calander that week , I may be coming up. [/b] GETCHERBUTTINTHETRUCK!!! :D

Looks like Flying-Lowe and myself will be bringing two visitors :thumbsup: . Count us in for a total of four people!!! We are 100% definately coming and the room is booked! Our foursome will be: CatManChree (chris) Flyin-Lowe (Scott) LitterBox (Tim) Essay (Sam) To my knowlodge neither Litterbox or Essay are members of SW.com :ohmy: so hopefully after the ride we will have two new members!! SWRules

Looks like Flying-Lowe and myself will be bringing two visitors :thumbsup: . Count us in for a total of four people!!! We are 100% definately coming and the room is booked! Our foursome will be: CatManChree (chris) Flyin-Lowe (Scott) LitterBox (Tim) Essay (Sam) To my knowlodge neither Litterbox or Essay are members of SW.com :ohmy: so hopefully after the ride we will have two new members!! SWRules [/b] Great news buddy!! Looking forward to meeting all of you.

Okay.....this is the best I can do! :( Myself and a guest Scott Mcintosh (MAC) are coming up Saturday the 14th but have to leave either late on Wednesday(18th) or very-very-very early on Thurs(19th). Sorry but that is the best we can do because of those responsiblities at home!!!! So we can ride with whom ever will be UP there early in the week!!!! SWRules

Jeff and I and possibly Ryan will be heading up very early Monday morning,,not 100% sure of our departure time, but sometime at the end of March sounds good right now.

Okay.....this is the best I can do! :( Myself and a guest Scott Mcintosh (MAC) are coming up Saturday the 14th but have to leave either late on Wednesday(18th) or very-very-very early on Thurs(19th). Sorry but that is the best we can do because of those responsiblities at home!!!! So we can ride with whom ever will be UP there early in the week!!!! SWRules [/b] That's awesome guys! Look us up. We will be there Monday. Are you staying at the hotel with us? Have you reserved a room? I've added you to the list.

Getting the itch bad as well. Looks like I am bad on. This has got to be what it is like for a woman with PMS. so much drama. up and down and up and down and up. It's bipolar disorder for slednex. MAN!!!! OK the guy that fixes my truck is having a birthday the week after we get back from the ride. His wife calls and asks how much I charge to DJ a birthday. I said " about the same amount it is to fix my truck". She agreed with the price and I am all set. SO now I am back on track for going up north so getting all giddy again.

That's awesome guys! Look us up. We will be there Monday. Are you staying at the hotel with us? Have you reserved a room? I've added you to the list. [/b] Yes we are staying at the Best Western also.....Even though it's different dates they still gave us the same room rate, drink ticket and breakfast. The reservations are made arriving on the 14th and leaving on the 18th. The room under my name...Scott Ridenour.....Just talked to another person...he may be coming also. I'll update if he comfirm's with us......... :thumbsup:

Looks like Flying-Lowe and myself will be bringing two visitors :thumbsup: . Count us in for a total of four people!!! We are 100% definately coming and the room is booked! Our foursome will be: CatManChree (chris) Flyin-Lowe (Scott) LitterBox (Tim) Essay (Sam) To my knowlodge neither Litterbox or Essay are members of SW.com :ohmy: so hopefully after the ride we will have two new members!! SWRules [/b] I have to drive all the way to Houghton :) to meet you fellow hoosiers? try and pm me with details on your leaving time. I would not mind having some road company. may be up when you guys get there and be leaving wen,thur. still up in the air now sorry out of concrete :lol:

Okay.....this is the best I can do! :( Myself and a guest Scott Mcintosh (MAC) are coming up Saturday the 14th but have to leave either late on Wednesday(18th) or very-very-very early on Thurs(19th). Sorry but that is the best we can do because of those responsiblities at home!!!! So we can ride with whom ever will be UP there early in the week!!!! SWRules [/b] Bro-inlaw and I will be ready to ride Monday morning. We'll look for you Sunday night when we get there. I see you ride the Kawkawlin, thats about 2 miles from my place. BIL lives on the Tittabawassee river, just a few hundred yards from the Saginaw river. Maybe we can get together for a ride, if they ever freeze over.??

The list is growing........................

I talked to the hotel today,,, we have 9 rooms booked. They have dropped the total number of rooms on hold to 20 and have extended the date until the 9th,,,,, we need to get these rooms filled quick. Dont get stuck staying at another hotel because this one is full. It will be a great time,,, whats holding you back??? Will see a bunch of you there,,, Brian

I talked to the hotel today,,, we have 9 rooms booked. They have dropped the total number of rooms on hold to 20 and have extended the date until the 9th,,,,, we need to get these rooms filled quick. Dont get stuck staying at another hotel because this one is full. It will be a great time,,, whats holding you back??? Will see a bunch of you there,,, Brian [/b] Actually, there are probably no other rooms available by now. One of my friends just called around trying to save some money. He had no luck. See ya there.

Bro-inlaw and I will be ready to ride Monday morning. We'll look for you Sunday night when we get there. I see you ride the Kawkawlin, thats about 2 miles from my place. BIL lives on the Tittabawassee river, just a few hundred yards from the Saginaw river. Maybe we can get together for a ride, if they ever freeze over.?? [/b] Sounds great Snow4.....we will be there Saturday night so we'll ride Sunday and have a good idea of how the trail's are by the time you get there Sunday night. I'll be on an 02 Arctic cat zl800ss(black w/green) and Mac will be riding an 04 Poo 700 Switchback. Look us up...... Yeah we ride the Kawkawlin, Saginaw and Shiawasee rivers when there is ice. Castaway's on the Kawkawlin, Hooter's in Baycity and Hooter's in Saginaw......good times!!!!! Mac lives in Bay city about 1 block from the Kawkawlin river so that makes for a good starting place.

I talked to the hotel today,,, we have 9 rooms booked. They have dropped the total number of rooms on hold to 20 and have extended the date until the 9th,,,,, we need to get these rooms filled quick. Dont get stuck staying at another hotel because this one is full. It will be a great time,,, whats holding you back??? Will see a bunch of you there,,, Brian [/b] About $1000-$1200 for 4 days of actual riding, that's what is holding me back! Gonna miss you guys!

Thats to bad Mike,we will miss you too. I'm still going to bring my tow rope.Theres a big new Polaris in the group :p

Thats to bad Mike,we will miss you too. I'm still going to bring my tow rope.Theres a big new Polaris in the group :p [/b] OUCH!!! :!: I feel JT's pain..... :blahblah: :D :hallo1: :lol: SWRules

About $1000-$1200 for 4 days of actual riding, that's what is holding me back! Gonna miss you guys! [/b] Mikadoo....if you jump in with somebody and split this 4 day trip 3 ways you should be able to do it for $600-700 easy and that gives you "adult beverage" money also. Check with JasonF.....I know he has trailer and passenger space and would love to split the cost !!!

Even if I drove alone, I don't think I could spend that much Mike. I'm only planning on $800 - $900 even if Donna and I end up driving up alone. Don't give up!

Thats to bad Mike,we will miss you too. I'm still going to bring my tow rope.Theres a big new Polaris in the group :p [/b] Glad you're bringing the tow rope. The new 900 should be able to tow just about anyone. lol Mike, gonna miss you being there. Try to make it if you can.

Thats to bad Mike,we will miss you too. I'm still going to bring my tow rope.Theres a big new Polaris in the group :p [/b] Oh thanks Pete for the encougagement :dazed: Man, my sled has 7000 miles and never been towed and what do I get,,,, slapped right in the face, yep, right in the face. :sarcasm:

Even if I drove alone, I don't think I could spend that much Mike. I'm only planning on $800 - $900 even if Donna and I end up driving up alone. Don't give up! [/b] Geez's Keith, arn't you gonna feed Donna? I got it all figured out for a 1000 mile round trip for 5 nights, sled premium gas, booze and food a thousand dollar bill will about cover it. If the Green Goblin would have got some $35.00 a night rooms instead of the Hilton it would have helped big time. Sorry Brian had too. It's not that I cant afford it I just cant see throwing a grand for 4 days of fun and 24 hours of seat time in the truck. Speaking of trucks KIETH, unless your Dodge and 2 Doo's get 20+miles a gallon $900 wont be close, better bring the credit card :lol:

Well talked to Jason F. tonight he will be picking me up on Tues. in Seney,Mich with Renegademike :thumbsup: Finally got a plan together! The Key. awaits :thumbsup:

Geez's Keith, arn't you gonna feed Donna? I got it all figured out for a 1000 mile round trip for 5 nights, sled premium gas, booze and food a thousand dollar bill will about cover it. If the Green Goblin would have got some $35.00 a night rooms instead of the Hilton it would have helped big time. Sorry Brian had too. It's not that I cant afford it I just cant see throwing a grand for 4 days of fun and 24 hours of seat time in the truck. Speaking of trucks KIETH, unless your Dodge and 2 Doo's get 20+miles a gallon $900 wont be close, better bring the credit card :lol: [/b] Do I have to go through this again? Better check your calculations, man. They are way off. Mike, we are trying to be encouraging about the ride and you just keep trying to make it look like we made it expensive on purpose just so you couldn't go. Man, you know that's not the case. Maybe next year you might like to pitch in? Show me the $35 rooms that our wives would stay in. There aren't any. Brian didn't make the call on the hotel on his own. It was a group decision. We moved the ride west hoping to make it close enough for some of the folks from MN and WI. More than half of us going to the ride are driving farther than you will have to drive. Besides there is nothing like the 'Key'. Mebbe nex yeeeer we kin havit'n Irons n y'all kin pich tentz fer 10 bux a nite! Still like to see you make it Mike. :)

:lmao: :lmao: Mike, man we gonna miss you, dont give up hope yet. Never know what might happen. On the hotel, I called over 15 hotels between Hancock, Houghton, and Calumet to get the best deal I could get. This is the place that gave us the best deal. A lot of the places up there simply didnt have the rooms that we were going to need, or had no conference room, or food/spirits were not remotely close. I narrowed it down to the best choices and passed all of them on and we made the decision on this one. I too would have liked to see a 35$ a night room,,,, I really would have. I know that 80 isnt cheap, but when you split that with a roommate and you also get your free drink coupon and breakfast (not continental, but real breakfast) thrown in with the deal, I didnt think it was that bad. I am sure we have someone up there that would split the room with you and there is a good chance we can find someone that you can get up there with and the bill will get cut down big time for you,,,, As for the tow rope Pete,,,, LETS KEEP THIS BETWEEN YOU AND JEFF,,,, no team green on this one and then there will be no duct tape mentioned either!!! :lmao: :lmao: Brian

As for the tow rope Pete,,,, LETS KEEP THIS BETWEEN YOU AND JEFF,,,, no team green on this one and then there will be no duct tape mentioned either!!! :lmao: :lmao: Brian [/b] Thanks Brian,you are a true friend :cool:

Ok, you guys win. The prices arn't that bad IF you can split it up but I'am on my own and a grand is what it will cost. Guess if you wanna play you gotta pay? I commend all of you for taking the time and effort to put this together it is really appriciated! Supposed to start the everyother weekend thing with my regular riding buddy's next weekend in Frederic but with this weather I cant see it happening. Kind of committed now anyway with these guys so maybe next year, have a good time and stay out of trouble...........

Mikadoo......There should still be room with JasonF! Even with him picking up sledheaddude800 in Seney that still leaves one place in the trailer and one seat in the crew cab. All you have to is ask him.....then get yourself and sled to his driveway in Burt just an hour north of you. Now your splitting gas there and back 4 ways. Doesn't get much better than that.... :dazed: Idooski.....we are adding one more person. Shawn...Mac's brother will be making the trip with us. That makes 28...... and 29 if Mikadoo gets it together :whistling: SWRules

come on Mike,,, dont give up the hope yet,,, you have a week to get it all put together. With splitting the gas, and then I am sure someone up there may have only 2 people in a room and they would roll the rollaway in the room and then the cost is 88$ a night divided by 3,,,, now its getting really affordable,,,, give it some thought,,, if you cant make it, I understand, but remember how much fun you had last year???

Hope you will make it Mike. Looking forward to seeing you again, and seeing what that long tracked triple/triple can do. We only have 2 in our room, if you dont mind a roll-away let me know and I'll call the hotel make sure they have a spare. You'll want to bring ear plugs, my roomy snores like a chain saw. :sleeping: :bash: Come on man.

Hope you will make it Mike. Looking forward to seeing you again, and seeing what that long tracked triple/triple can do. We only have 2 in our room, if you dont mind a roll-away let me know and I'll call the hotel make sure they have a spare. You'll want to bring ear plugs, my roomy snores like a chain saw. :sleeping: :bash: Come on man. [/b] Hey Mike, that is a deal you can't pass up. Also, you promised me an adult beverage. You have to make it. You can't bail out after making the first ride with us, you are now family. Please go for it. You won't regret it. Heck, splitting the motel 3 ways makes it even less than your $35.00 a night. Soooo, no excuse now. Go for it. :D

Thanks for the offers guys but I cant mooch off anyone, that just isn't me. I ask several weeks ago to just find a riding partner but no one responded so I have made my plans with my regular riding buddys for the season.

Mike,I guess all of us enjoyed your company last year,thats all. Hope to see you next year! You will miss out on those hotty bar tenders the hotel has though. too bad. Me and Dave will cut some rug with them,do some body shots,you know,stuff like that :D

Man!!!! One more week to go. This is hell week like my first week in the Army too. Wife is in California and I have BOTH kids all week by myself. The good news is I can put her car outside and my sled in the garage ALL WEEK LONG and keep her good and warm while I polish her up. God I hope there is some snow up there!

thats too funny Paul,,, my wife is in Florida this week and I am absolutely going nuts here!! Only difference is, my son went to Florida with her and I DO NOT have to run the day care center while she is gone!!!!! No party time here though,,, gotta save that cash for next week!!!

ONE WEEK PEOPLE!!!!!!!

ONE WEEK PEOPLE!!!!!!! [/b] Wow, thanks for the reminder, I was having such a great time at work this week that I almost forgot :bash: :p Heres a pic to get you through the week Paul, the Phoenix store awaits you :wink: http://www.snowmobileworld.com/forum/galleryuploads/1108554865/gallery_4786_189_45517.jpg

I hope we get a 6ft overnight blizzard!

I like the idea of a LOT of snow,,, but 6 foot means we are going to do a LOT of digging!!!!

That's what a long track is for, my friend. lol

Well the sled is ready and the bags are partially packed..... :D Just need to load some trails and back roads into the GPS. Four days from now we'll be on the road. Looks like my group will be one of the first UP there so we'll have to find a computer somewhere to post the conditions for everyone... It won't be long now.....

Great news,,,, snow trails tv will be attending the ride,,, I got off the phone with video Mike today and he will be up there to do a segment covering the ride,,,, so the best ride of the winter,,,, just got better!!!

Not sure if this has been posted already, but I'll do it anyways. Click Here (http://houghtonlodging.com/) for the motels web site. Has all the goodies, phone numbers, address etc... Just one more working day to go! :D

I updated the sponsor list,there may be more coming :christmas: Dan and I should arrive on Wed evening 8ish? So have a few cold ones lined up for us. I'm going to be out of town until Monday sometime(no puter) So I guess we'll see ya'll there Wed night. Can't wait. Pete

Is it just me or is anyone else concerned about the mild temps and lack of new snow in the Houghton area? My group is getting very concerned and a worried we will waste tons of gas money and 28+ hours of drive time.... Please advise CatManCHREE

It looks like theres any where from 6" to over 2' of snow in the key, using John Dee's site. And the temps are below freezing now, with some light snow expected. Click Here (http://weather.msn.com/local.aspx?wealocations=wc:USMI0405) for the Houghton, MI forecast. Things are looking better.

Is it just me or is anyone else concerned about the mild temps and lack of new snow in the Houghton area? My group is getting very concerned and a worried we will waste tons of gas money and 28+ hours of drive time.... Please advise CatManCHREE [/b] We have talked with the folks at the hotel and they told us t hat there is about 6" on the ground there and that the snow deepens quickly to the north. Have faith buddy. They are calling for snow showers almost every day from here on out with temps in the 20's. It's even snowing here right now. See ya there!

Add 2 more to the list! Kevin & Katy(sp) are coming up Monday, and staying till Thursday I believe. They came up to last years ride, but had sled trouble very early into the ride so never got to meet most of you folks. See ya'll soon!

Add 2 more to the list! Kevin & Katy(sp) are coming up Monday, and staying till Thursday I believe. They came up to last years ride, but had sled trouble very early into the ride so never got to meet most of you folks. See ya'll soon! [/b] were in the hotel right now, the surface streets are bare but we haven't explored anything else

I take it there is wireless access for laptops? Keep us posted as to how conditions are!!! ;) CatManCHREE

I take it there is wireless access for laptops? Keep us posted as to how conditions are!!! ;) CatManCHREE [/b] Yes there is wireless access here in the hotel..... We just got all tucked in to the hotel..... we're gonna go out for a short run to check things out. As Shawn said the streets are bare but the trail from the hotel does have snow and is rideable from the hotel. We did talk to a couple sledders and they said once your out of town and in the higher elevation its not to bad at all. One big difference from back home....when you look out the window the ground is WHITE :D No green grass here like in my front yard......Oh yeah...one more thing...THE BEER IS COLD!!!!!!! w00t SWRules

ON THE Way!!!!

locked, loaded, and ready to head out tommorrow VERY EARLY,,,, will be up there SOOOOOOOON!!!!!!!!! Can you smell the snow!?!?!?!?!?!?!

All packed, 1 sled left to load Monday night and heading out from Central Indiana about 4AM Tuesday morning! :thumbsup: :tongue: :undercover: :cool: :christmas: :D :blahblah: w00t SWRules

Leaving tonight, see you guys tomorrow morning.

We are on the road as we speak! Brian

no update on conditions :confused: , whats the temps likely to be for the week? I may need to change my mains if I leave here.

no update on conditions :confused: , whats the temps likely to be for the week? I may need to change my mains if I leave here. [/b] Conditions are looking good. Yesterday was in the upper 20's with light snow, and the next couple days look to be about the same. Heres a forecast. (http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USMI0405?from=36hr_fcst10DayLink_undeclared)

I have the Houghton forcast on my desktop weather here at work and I just noticed it was flashing red which is always a good sign. Says 3-5" today and another 3-5" tonight,, YES :thumbsup:

Good morning Jason...The weather does look good for later today and tomorrow....the little bit we got yesterday did clean things up a bit. I think you guys need to leave tonight and be here to ride in the morning...I see jt and puree did that. They left last night and they are riding today!!!!!!! :cool:

Mxzwfo, idooski, fist, kid rocker and the crew should be ariving between 2 and 3. See ya all soon! Brian

on the road in 5 minutes ,see you around 8-9 tonight. P.S. you guys better call me and give me dierections to the hotel :ohmy:

We are here and the water is great. We are going to have a good time! Conditions look god with 7 to 10 in the forecast for tonight and tomarrow!! Brian

Hope you guys have a good time, also hope Dave makes it over there. :crazy:

Hope you guys have a good time, also hope Dave makes it over there. :crazy: [/b] Oh right, Dave :lmao: We are leaving first thing in the morning so I will see you all tomorrow evening. Later Jason