Thursday, March 27, 2025 | St. Lawrence County, NY
SOUTH COLTON – Snowmobilers and local officials gathered on February 8 at the Raquette Valley Fish & Game Club to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the St. Lawrence County Snowmobile Association.
The event, held in conjunction with 2025 International Snowmobile Day, drew a large crowd to honor the association’s legacy and ongoing contributions to the sport.
A highlight of the event was the display of a new snow groomer and drag, set to enhance the grooming of county trails. Long-time trail groomer Ernie Rose of Pierrepont was on hand to inspect the new equipment, which will play a crucial role in maintaining the region’s snowmobile trails.
The celebration featured a strong turnout of dignitaries, including John Pickney of the New York State Snowmobile Association, Colton Town Supervisor Ronnie Roberts, District 6 Legislator Larry Denesha, Ken Blankenbush’s Chief of Staff Tammie Nabywaniec, District 7 Legislator Rick Perkins, former Colton Town Supervisor and sportsmen’s rights advocate Hank Ford, Assemblyman Scott Gray of District 116, and St. Lawrence County Snowmobile Association President Debbie Christy.
Special guest Hank Ford was recognized for his advocacy and contributions to sportsmen’s rights and outdoor recreation. Assemblyman Scott Gray also took the opportunity to discuss his commitment to supporting North Country sportsman's issues with local officials.
The St. Lawrence County Snowmobile Association, which includes eight local clubs—the Childwold Sno Packers, Colton Sno Skippers, Dairyland Snowmobile Club, Grasse River Grooms, Heuvelton Punchlock Travelers, Tri-Town Trailblazers, Edwards Snowmobile Club, and St. Lawrence County Snowmobile Club—organized an array of activities to mark the occasion.
Outdoor festivities included an antique snowmobile show at Robideau’s Mahogany Ridge, first-time rider snowmobile experiences, and a rescue display by the Colton Volunteer Fire Department. Indoor events featured a chicken barbecue, a drink and dessert bar, a DJ, raffles, and merchandise sales. Attendees also had the chance to win one of five $100 gift certificates courtesy of event sponsor Fun Unlimited of Gouverneur.
