Special Reports

Viewer Comments On Snowmobiling Safety

The death of CBS 2's Randy Salerno in a snowmobiling accident has sparked a debate about the risks involved in the sport. We asked you for your comments on the sport of snowmobiling, the risks involved and whether more should be done to prevent tragic accidents. Here is what you said:

After hearing all the stories in the past week, I no longer feel that snowmobiling is safe. It could be a much safer sport of the operators were more responsible. I am stunned at the number of deaths just this season in Wisconsin alone. There are so many families that could have avoided such a tragedy, too many.
--Amy Cederlund


Unfortunately, the bars in WI, MN and northern IL all cater to riding from bar-to-bar, it's a way of life. Reminding folks that alcohol, snow, limited visibility, speed and trees is a deadly combination should be the focus for government if they feel they need to nanny people.
--Jeff Keele


YES! I think snowmobiling can be dangerous. I think that the same laws for drunk driving in a registered vehicle for road use should be the same for a snowmobile/ATV's/Jet skis, any of the "toys". I feel that ANYTHING operated by a motor, one of the above mentioned or even a ride on lawn mower, should have the same regulations as the vehicles used on the road ways(have you seen "cops"?). For goodness sake, you can be fined and ticketed for operating a boat impaired. Why? Is it just because it needs to be registered and licensed with the state like road use vehicles. Well if that's the case, then any motor driven "vehicle" should have the same regulations. It should be regulatory, as with motorcycles, to wear helmets on snowmobiles. Even though having one alcoholic drink doesn't put most people over the legal limit, it does impair you. It relaxes the body and nervous system into a false sense of "being in control". It's not good for the person operating the machine or for anyone who may happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
--Kathy Munoz


Just wait.......let me understand this ......you're suggesting that we can do something to make snowmobiling safer? How 'bout taking a snowmobile safety course? How 'bout getting a trail map & then STAYING on the trail? How 'bout operating the machine at a legal speed limit? How 'bout NOT DRINKING while you're on the sled. You can anything you want - but many of the Chicago types who come up here actually PLAN on drinking & sledding. They think that because this is the 'wild north woods' that anything goes. Well, guess again - we actaully have laws that if followed would keep everyone safe. It's not the snowmobile it's the driver. I'll bet the drinking started on the plane ride up.  Go figure!
--MJHolland


Yes, I think there should be more regulations on snowmobile safety, it's still driving.
--Thank you, Sherrie Sullivan


Snowmobiling is not safe, it is just like a motor cycle, car, truck etc., There needs to be precautions, are there training classes like we take to get a license for a car?
--Theresa Ujek


I think most DEFINITELY there needs to be more done in regards to snowmobile safety and boating safety. I think it is somewhat a given that while these are "recreational" sports there does not seem to be a real concern for ENFORCING safety. There needs to be more education on the various aspects and elements that affect the handling of either a snowmobile or boat - in both cases it is not just the alcohol factor - it is having signs clearly posted - it is having authority out there - it is following speed limits - I obviously do not have all the answers but know that drinking is clearly attached to both of these recreational activities.
--Linda Susmilch


We have a vacation home in Eagle River (and lived there full time for 3 years) ... drinking is literally part of the culture. It isn't limited to snowmobiles, although that component is truly frightening. Review The Vilas County News Review court reports. I was constantly amazed at the DUIs...people who had 5,6,7 and were still driving and drinking. All the roads are two lanes. It's a very dangerous situation year-round. I have dozens of stories. Schools turn their backs, etc. Many examples of that. (Look into the drinking laws, I was told that in Wisconsin a parent can literally buy a child a drink if they choose to, I wonder if this is so.)
A bit of research will really show the clout of the bars as far as the connection to the snowmobile trails. When a bridge connecting St. Germain to Eagle River was possibly not going to be rebuilt because of the cost there was such a flap from the bars that, guess what, "funds were raised." It's a very boozy, macho environment. Don't even get me started on drinking and hunting....
--Mary Babich


If you want to drive a car, you must first study the rules of the road, take a written test, pass a road test, even get your vision tested, and finally obtain a license. If you want to ride a motorcycle, you must go through all the same steps and, what a concept!, learn how to ride a motorcycle. Why aren't there the same rules for snowmobiles? They are, after all, motor vehicles capable of traveling at very high speeds while you maneuver the vehicle in and out of areas of dense trees, tree stumps, shrubs, narrow trails or no trails, and embankments. There is no protection around you - you are sitting on the outside of a vehicle. And, of course, there are the numerous bars that you can easily pull up to to "warm up" and take a rest before continuing on your way. Who is the rocket scientist who determined that snowmobile riders don't have to follow the same safety rules like learning to operate the vehicle before being able to rent one? It should be mandatory that you show a snowmobile operator's license when renting one. Can you rent a car without showing your driver's license? Who is closing their eyes to all of the snowmobile accidents and unnecessary loss of life that happens year after year after year? For heaven's sake, somebody treat snowmobiles as the potentially dangerous vehicles they are when rented by people who don't know how to operate them. And, finally, there needs to be more snow patrol on hand just like we have radar police on the streets checking for speeders.
--Patti Leonardi, Aurora


First, I would like to send my condolences to Randy's family. I am an avid snowmobiler and have been doing it for over 30 years with my family. For the last 20 years, I go up on annual guy trips with my brothers and friends the same as Randy did and we have a blast. In fact I just had lunch last Wednesday at the Sayner Pub and ran the lake where the accident happened. How come the news footage doesn't show the orange poles marking the trail across the lake? These are put in place for a reason, and they reflect at night for visibility purposes. Anyone who knows what it is like to cross a lake knows that when you approach the shoreline the sled tracks will all funnel in to enter the trail. I took the snowmobile safety course at age 10 and I look at myself as a very experienced rider, and now at age 41, I can still ride just as good as I did 20 years ago. It's very unfortunate when accidents happen, but to blast the sport of snowmobiling the way Dave Savini did on the news was wrong. A lot of good people enjoy the sport and I don't think it's fair to be all one sided. Has Mr. Savini ever ridden a sled before, or was this just another example of an inexperienced driver getting on a sled. One of the main reasons for the accidents are all the rental sleds, these people mostly being from Illinois, have little or no experience when it comes to riding. Try doing the same with motorcycles, what would the outcome be? Look at the overall statistics, how many thousands of people are riding and how many accidents occur? People get on their sleds for the first time, and WOW look how fast we can go, with absolutely no knowledge how to handle a machine. As far as drinking goes, their are people who drink, I don't deny this, but why should a few bad people ruin it for everyone else. Last week their were more couples riding than men, enjoying the North woods, having fun. I drink with my friends, but we have a rule, no drinks while riding, until were back at the cabin. We ride long and hard every trip and always try to put on as many miles as possible in one day, sometimes between 150-200 miles depending on trail conditions. As far as the bars go, try shooting footage during the daytime and see how many people are drinking pop VS. beer. How bad is it if the guys are staying in a hotel next door to the bar? Cameras and microphones help you do your job, but in all fairness, this was a one sided story. What happens on Division Street at 3:00 am, the same thing every weekend. People should learn the rules before they ride. Again, my condolences to the entire staff at channel 2 news, but let's be fair here, snowmobiling is a fun sport if treated right.
--Sincerely, Steve Kukla


I am sorry, but this segment does not even come close to the culture of snowmobiling. Why did you not show the majority of people and families out riding and not drinking? The fact is most people ride during the day and have some drinks when they get back at night. You cannot hold what some inexpienced people from the city decide to do against the entire snowmobiling community.
--Pete Henze


As a person who watched Randy every morning and a person who has snowmobiled in that area for years, I find it disturbing that you have chosen to try to find someone to blame other than the people involved. Snowmobiling is a recreational activity just as in skiing and boating there are inherent risks. The people that maintain the trails are volunteers and to try and find blame in the way the trails are marked is irresponsible at best. Fighting this fight this way angers people like myself. Believe me I was devastated when I heard of Randy's passing. He was like a friend and I didn't even know him. He will be forever missed but to create stories this way doesn't do the memory of Randy any service. Sometimes an accident is just an accident and the only responsible party is the one involved. Thanks for the time.
--Ken Uhlir, LaGrange Park


Yes I thinks it safe, if you enjoy the sport in a responsible manner. My wife and I have snowmobiled in the north woods for years and we never drink alcohol when we ride. There is too much to pay attention for and the sleds are too fast to think that you can handle them while under the influence. We do not ride at night though just because that is when the hot dogs with the fast sleds really get out of hand. I am 36 years old and have been driving my own sled since I was 10, without any incidents, knock on wood!!
--Jim Pavel


I just returned from the Northwoods after 4 days of riding and watched your report. It is both an accurate representation in one respect and a very innacurate representation of snowmobiling for most of us. I was very saddened to hear about Randy's tragic accident right before we left for our trip in the same general area that we ride. His accident had all the factors of a fatal accident and alcohol was just one of them. Inexperienced riders, unfamiliar lake riding, and speed riding late at night all contributed. It did make us evaluate how we ride and what we do when we stop. Our group (8 this year ages from 26 to 46, I'm 40) talked about riding safe often before and during our trip and did not and do not get drunk out on the trails while riding. We generally, and most of what we see while riding, is to stop every 2-4 hours for a break and have one or two beers or some water, and eat some appetizers or lunch. We ride safe, under control, and obey all speed limits and stops while out on the trails. We also do not ride late into the night as it does get more dangerous as the night progresses (we know there will be some that do ride out of control, fortunately we didn't see any on this trip). Ride all day, get home, have some dinner and drinks, play some cards, etc. and be ready for the next day. The best riding is early in the day anyway. I just hope that your channel does not portray all of us snowmobilers as a bunch of drunk idiots with our only intention of getting smashed and riding. We have families to think about and just want to ride for the sheer enjoyment of the sport. I have found hardly anything I enjoy more than to spend a couple of days with the guys riding though the beautiful countryside of the Northwoods. Remember there are drunks at any bar that you go to that will get smashed and then into a car and drive home. Driving home yesterday though a blizzard in Wisconsin and then through the fog in Illinois was 100 times more nerve wracking and dangerous than any minute we had on our snowmobiles. Once again, condolences to everyone at the station and his family on Randy's passing. It is another tragic loss to the snowmobiling community but please do not lump us all into the same group as that guy that finished up your piece. The vast majority are just good guys like Randy seemed to be.
--Sincerely, Jeff McMorrow


There should be more patrols to avoid excessive drinking, even though this is how the Northwood's makes their money for the season.
--Darlene Petracek


Snowmobiling has long been enjoyed as a fun pastime in the wintry Midwest and beyond. I don't think snowmobiling is unsafe, it just has to be regulated and authorities have to enforce rules to ensure the safety of those who participate it. We don't let people drive in cars 90 and 100 mph without getting a ticket, or drive drunk, let them get away with it and expect nothing to happen to them, so why do they let snowmobilers get away with it? It is ludicrous that Wisconsin runs a free for all up there. We try to make our streets safer by having and enforcing laws, this is no different.
--Barbara Sertell


Do not drink and drive, it's that simple! It has nothing to do with the snowmobile or the trails!
--Lance Selelsky


Quite obviously the ad campaigns do not work: "drink and drive and you lose" or "drink responsibly". Something else must be done. Alcohol is far too easily available. Nearly every gas station has become a mini bar and most grocery stores probably outsell liquor stores (including "family friendly" WalMart). Every once in awhile we get upset (last year it was the 20 something gal who killed a carload of teens). We talk about it and then do nothing except talk about it while other innocent people are killed. Alcohol sales MUST be limited and made more difficult to acquire. Also, the alcohol industry must be made accountable for deaths. They all advertise with the message that if you drink our beer you will be popular. Its time for truth in advertising and perhaps we should take another look at the 18th amendment!
--John McClimans


Snowmobiling in the state of Wisconsin is as safe as each participant makes it for themselves. While any fatality could be considered a tragedy, to label the whole sport as unsafe would be a serious misrepresentation. Personal responsibility for individual actions cannot be ignored. The fact that some snowmobilers choose to spend time at taverns should not be used to cast all snowmobilers and the sport of snowmobiling in negative light. As a Wisconsin DNR certified Snowmobile Safety instructor, I get the opportunity to introduce new participants to the sport each year. As an active Snowmobile Club member I also get to meet people who have been involved in Snowmobiling for many years. The majority of snowmobilers are not a bunch of "bar-hopping, ride like your hair's on fire" maniacs. Thousands of snowmobilers hit the trails every year, riding many accident-free miles, enjoying the beauty the frozen landscape has to offer. How about some fair and equal time spent looking at the positive aspects of this form of winter recreation? Do I feel safe snowmobiling? Yes I do. Do I think more should be done to prevent tragic accidents on our snowmobile trails? I think the answer to that question can be addressed the same as tragedies on our public highways. Accidents are going to happen whether people are driving cars, operating snowmobiles, or walking on the sidewalk. Should fatalities make us stop and ask why? Of course. We just shouldn't lose sight of the fact that the vast majority of snowmobilers are not involved in these tragedies.
--Doug Johnson


Any type of recreation involving operating a vehicle requires the responsible actions of the driver. This goes for snowmobiles, boats, ATVs and motorcycles. Not only should an operator be sober, they should know the rules of safely participating in the sport and driving that vehicle. Anyone who has been around these sports knows that some people - and I stress, not all people - see it as going hand in hand with drinking cocktails. I boat regularly on the northern Illinois Chain of Lakes, and the evidence of unsafe boating practices on the chain runs rampant. And the amount of drinking and bar-hopping as a part of boating is way overboard (no pun intended!). New laws should be created, existing laws should be enforced - but it all starts with the individual acting responsibly. Randy's death was a heartbreaking misfortune. Perhaps the only good that may come as a result is some changes to safety awareness, and existing laws and their enforcement.
--Lynn Pries, Wonder Lake, IL


No, I do not think snowmobiling is safe and never had. Too many people have lost their lives for nothing, what a tragedy.
--Judy Robins, Chicago


I have been sledding in the North Woods for years, and I was wondering why you did not give the cleaner side of sledding any time on you report. I think you should have looked in all of the activities that also go on in the North Woods that you did not cover. Radar runs, Fun Rides, Woman On Snow week-end, Winterfests Etc. There is so much more that goes on in the North Woods other that just the bar to bar runs. I also have a trail map that we use while riding but you failed to mention that is a ROAD map to get you around the trail, did you mention that it also has GAS stops on the map try to ride with out one if you are not familiar with the trails that you are riding! In fairness I feel that you should do a follow-up story that gives sledding a positive outlook not just focus on the negative. Also did you consider the economic impact that story could have on the hotel/restraunt business in that area?? I just feel that the report was way to one sided, I agree that there are good points in your report but you need to also be able to see the other side and then let people judge for themselves.
--Bob Zubik


My husband and I snowmobile often. We even take our children with us. They love it. However we only go during the day. Many of the drivers during the day are safer. (not all) You do have to watch out for other drivers just like on the road. It is also easier to see during the day. When it is night time it is difficult to see where the trails lead. It is even more difficult to see trail markers. We go appropriate speeds and very slow when getting on and off trails. With any sport it can be safe if the right safety precautions are taken. Many people die going over lakes also if you check the record. Why are the lakes not checked in the morning and closed off if not safe. Read those statistics. Really sad. Another issue with the people who are drinking and driving the sleds is that you have to remember the cold feels like it sobers you up. So although they maybe drunk as soon as the cold air hits them they think they can do anything. We only snowmobile in Michigan. I do think the law where they can attach the DUI penalty to your drivers license has helped. I do wish they would do more. It is a great sport.
--Donna


First let me first express my condolences to all of you who worked with Randy Salerno, it always hard to loose a co-worker and friend in thier prime of life. I am truely sorry for your loss. As for snowmobile safety here are my view points that I would like to share after watching your news piece about the safety of snowmobiling in northern Wisconsin. I have been an active snowmobiler since 1978, I have belonged to the local snowmobile clubs in Illinois and to the Northeastern Snowmobile Association for many years, although I am not currently a member. I currently own 4 snowmobiles that my family and I use in the very same area that your story was based out of. I have a vacation home in St. Germain and have been snowmobiling in Northern Wisconsin since 1983. With that said, I want to express my displeasure with the biased side that Dave took in his story. He did not interview the local Snowmobile Club in St. Germain or Sayner Wis., or speak to any families that may have been riding in the area. He only spoke to bar patrons, who only show a small percentage of snowmobile riders. He also did not mention that many of the taverns were also supper clubs that serve food and non-alcholic beverages. Many people I know and ride with do not drink alchol or limit it to main meal only. Snowmobiling is similar to driving an automobile, you can find responsible people who do the right thing and irresponsible people who don't, and put people in jeopardy. As far as Dave sitting outside a tavern at 2:00 am and seeing some potential problems, yes you will at 2:00 am, but if you sit outside any tavern or bar at closing time you see this sort of thing in every town or city. Snowmobile safety goes back to the individual, it is up to each person to do the right thing to ensure the safety of the individual and the people they encounter on the trail. The Northern Wisconsin Communities and Snowmobile Clubs are the safest I have seen in the Midwest, they spend thousands of dollars signing and maintaining trails to ensure safety, and responsible riding.
--Steven Steffen


I watched the segment last night and I thought that it was very interesting. It was nice to hear from Randy's friends on what really happened, it is so natural to have so many speculations on what had happened. I believe that if you aren't supposed to be drinking and driving with a vehicle then it should also apply towards snowmobiling NO EXCEPTIONS!!!!!!!! They should also make the bars or bar tenders responsible for serving so much! It is amazing what you can get away with in Wisconsin. Because of these actions so many people are losing their lives. It's just a shame that it took Randy' accident to draw all of this attention to this situation but maybe it will help save other people in the long run! No matter how much you drink and then go out into that freezing cold and get behind that snowmobile no less in the dark it can really affect your judgment as far as I'm concerned. I have been on them before and they can be safe if you can be responsible while on them!!! I'm not saying anything against Randy's friend because it is a TERRIBLE situation no matter what but it always is when it involves a life being lost and unfortunately he has to live with that now. In conclusion I feel that these bars need to be more responsible in making sure that these people are in good condition before they send them off instead of drinking along with them! I also think that the police departments have to be more responsible in answering calls if people are calling to report this behavior going on instead of saying "we have no one in the area." If people realize that is being said of course their going to continue with this behavior because they know that they can get away with it! I know people that haven't been up there in Wisconsin for quite a few years because of this crazy behavior they would rather go to Michigan where people don't get so crazy. I hope that you can continue to fight this and get the results that you are looking for. I watch you guys all of the time and I know that you will. I absolutely think that a LOT more should be done about this.
--Anonymous


If you don't drink and drive a car, you don't drink and drive a snowmobile.
It's that simple.
--Sharon Picard, Trout Valley, IL


Most of your riders here in the northwoods have safety regarding the use of a snowmobile and drinking. Those of us that live here do not ride impaired and watch out for the weekend warriors that come up here and tie one on. Do not damage the sport of snowmobiling because of the few that do ruin it for all of the riders that really enjoy it without the use of alcohol
--Anonymous

Yes I think they should really crack down on this. I am a snowmobilier in the north woods and choose not to drink and drive. I am always worried about being hit by a drunk driver,as far as having a few drinks I choose to have them when the night of being out on the snowmobile is over.
--Theresa Coleman


I will start by saying that I do not condone drinking and riding a snowmobile, which is why the group that I ride with wait until the ride is over. However, this very biased story on snowmobiling gives the appearance that snowmobilers are the only people at fault for drinking and driving. As mentioned, there have been 45 alcohol related snowmobile deaths in the past two years in WI. My question is, how many alcohol related deaths were there on the highways during that same time frame. Snowmobilers are not the only one's making the bad decision to drink and drive. I think too, that a very good point was brought up during one of the interviews, and that is the fact that too many bars tend to overserve their patrons. Are tougher fines/consequences needed for those that drink and ride, certainly, however the same holds true for those who drink and drive. I read it every week in the paper how individuals received a $600-800 fine and/or a few months probation for drinking and driving. And, in many cases, this was not their first offense, but their second, third, fourth... The fact is, no matter what the activity, there are always going to be a few bad apples, however, the snowmobiling community has changed dramatically over the last 20-25 years. There are more families involved and certainly a lot less drinking than there used to be. Obviously there are still a fair share who want to continue to press their luck with the issue, however, remember that if these same individuals weren't riding their sled home from the bar, they would be driving their vehicle home from the bar. The northern parts of WI, MI, MN rely on tourism generated by snowmobiles, and it's important to bring forth the positive side of the sports as well, however, it's unfortunate that as a news agency you would much rather focus on the negative aspects than the positive. Where was the report interviewing the families and other riders who discuss riding the beautiful trails, seeing the scenery, the wildlife, etc. and discussing the issue that they and most others refuse to drink and drive a snowmobile. To some, perhaps this doesn't make for good viewing, for others though it makes for great viewing. It's nice once and a while to turn the news on and see a positive story being aired. Now, is snowmobiling safe? Like any other activity that people engage in, it's as safe as you make it. My prayers go out to the family of Randy Salerno as well as the family of the driver.
--Rex Moncel


I have to say last night that your special report on snowmobiling outraged me. I am very sorry for the family and friends for Randy's loss. I too will miss him at the morning news desk. But for your team to take a deliberate attack on snowmobiling is wrong and unfair. Just like driving a car at high speeds under the influence of alcohol, snowmobiling can be dangerous. Randy's "friend" was wrong on many levels when it comes to snowmobiling. They were driving too fast, allegedly intoxicated, and they were illegally riding two people on a one person sled, which all sled manufactures clearly mark on the machine that it is prohibited. My husband and I, along with friends and family, have been safely riding for 15 plus years without incident, but this tragedy, thanks to the media, has put the snowmobiling population in a bad light. There are more riders who obey the trail signs, posted speed limits, and do not drink and ride either. It is a shame that snowmobiling has been tarnished by a few "bad apples" that can not follow the rules. I do think that snowmobiling is safe. There are a number of safety classes offer by the Department of Natural Resources all for the benefit of riders young and old. There is a lot of donated time and money that goes into trying to keep the trails safe and well marked for every rider. It ultimately comes down to the riders responsibility, the must take owner ship for their own actions. Snowmobiling as a whole should not be punished because this time it was some one important who died.
--Laura LaSota, Naperville


The fact that these fellas were drinking is no different than a guy driving a car impaired. Our sympathies go out to the friends and families of those impacted; however there is no excuse for risking your life or that of others through operating a motorized vehicle while intoxicated. Snowmobiling is a fun family activity. I'm just sad to see the sport tarnished by the few criminals setting a bad example for the rest of us.
--Scott Sutherland

There is a main road to my subdivision with a corn field next to it. A young child rides a snowmobile parallel to the road 10 feet away. He is so small that he has to stand up to put his feet on the place where they go. He stands up, leans forward, and goes as fast as he can go. If he doesn't keep control, he could hit a bump, go in the small ditch, swerve in the street, or hit the wire fence. I cringe every time I drive by and see him. Where are the parents? He has done this all winter. Even after all your tv reports about the snowmobile accident.
--Anonymous


Where is your hidden camera at:

*every restaurant in Chicago
*every convention in Chicago
*every sporting event broadcast at every bar in Chicago
*every sporting event in Chicago
*every wedding reception in Chicago
*every golf course in Chicago
*every superbowl party in Chicago
*etc., etc., etc.
--Scott & Jeanmarie Simpson


You are stereotyping a group of people by saying that snowmobiling is only involved with speed and alcohol. There are some people who drink while snowmobiling, but not all of us. There are a lot of people out there who enjoy the sport safely and by the rules. Snowmobiling offers a freedom only other snowmobilers could understand. With your broadcast I'm worried that with you only showing the negatives to the sport, you are endangering a sport that many love. Some things need to change, but I don't like how the media exaggerates certain situations. If you think there are high numbers involving death and snowmobiles, then I assume you have never researched the statistics between death and cars.
--Anonymous


Very sorry for your personal loss of such a friend that Randy obviously was. I could see deep emotions were being held in check during your story. I think the dialogue and awareness of the situation is the best thing you could do. I have been around that scene so many times that it makes me question the whole purpose of getting away to the northwoods with your snowmobile. When you say that drinking is part and parcel with the snowmobiling scene in Wisconsin, you are very correct. So what is the solution to the problem of this type of tragedy and the many near-misses? This is the tricky part because right away I see exactly the wrong solution being proposed. Heavy handed law enforcement. It seems that the solution for all dangers in this world is brute force from the top down. This is not how freedom works and we should understand that freedom works from the ground up. Responsibility starts at the individual level in this country. Unfortunately this is precisely the cost of freedom. It allows people to do for themselves, which means that people are going to make mistakes. This scenario is the worst of all when a victim has no direct control. When I hear that Randy's best friend who bears the brunt of responsibility for this tragedy is now going to put under the further gun of heavy handed law which Randy's own family has said, "Is the very last thing Randy would want.", I reject this notion. It makes me wonder if we take any account for the judgement that has already been handed down to this poor soul just by god and nature alone. Do you not think the immediate force and gravity of the situation has rocked this guy to the core, without the need to get wiped out in a protracted court case for which the people nearest to the tragedy have pleaded against? I believe people doing this snowmobiling thing are going to make this same mistake to one degree or another until we decide that freedom is no longer an option. This is definitely the road we are heading down. Or, do we make our case for snowmobile safety using peaceful means like dialogue, education, and innovations within the confines of our fragile freedoms? Like encouraging Wisconsin bars to install a Breathalyzer mechanism so people can get a handle on their technical BAC so we don't have these myriad of situations where everyone is going "I had no idea how blasted I was, or how blasted `he` was. Encourage people to think ahead of a disaster using a freedom minded approach. I think Jay Levine was very clear and serious as when he said people have no business operating a motorized vehicle under the influence...ever. Do we force this gospel with the sword or with something more American and creative? My opinion is that nasty and aggressive law enforcement is the old stupid answer to all our problems and our freedoms are the immediate casualty. Let the government have a bunch of extra power, money, and laws? This is a sleazy and insincere approach. A sincere effort at peaceful and creative prevention is virtually left out of the debate in our oft-called `free` country. This is a slippery situation my friends but the solution must give freedom a grave consideration.
--Sincere Regards, David Boettin, Fox River Grove


I was just wondering if Randy Salerno had alcohol in his system when he had died, because he also did not make a good decision by getting on the back of a one person snowmobile. I am 38 years old and I have been going to the north woods of Wisconsin snowmobiling since I was 7 years of age and I understand the importance of safety. That is why when I am with my 8 year old son, we are on a two person snowmobile and nothing else. So In my mind the first mistake was alcohol, second was two people on one person snowmobile and last they were inexperienced. So with all those variable's something could happen, and it did happen. It really upsets me when I hear about stories like this. Because if there had been someone with them that had been making better decisions with them this tragedy would not have happened.


My sympathy goes out to the Salerno Family, Randy's co-workers and friends, and those with him that faithful Thursday night. It is unfortunate that Randy Salerno's death would cause the media (CBS 2 Chicago) to exploit the sport of snowmobiling and leave a bad taste in the mouth of many snowmobiling enthusiasts, especially where Chicago media already frowns on cold and snow. I was anticipating this story ever since I saw the preview from Rob Johnson Monday night. But to my discomfort, the reporting of CBS 2 Chicago seems ignorant about a problem that has imbedded itself in the snowmobiling community. How can the media (CBS 2 Chicago) persuade to its viewers they know the single most factor involving snowmobile deaths in the 10 days since Randy's passing? I'm 27 years old and have been snowmobiling all my life and what I saw tonight was ludicrous. Jay Levine hit the nail on the head when he said there is no excuse for driving any motor vehicle while intoxicated. This is where the story should have ended. Alcohol definitely played a role in the collision along with the snow conditions, but what was not stated on the report are a few things that I believe along with alcohol are contributors to fatal snowmobile collisions. First off, the fact that two people were riding a sled that was manufactured for one person is the first mistake. Warning labels are posted on 1-up machines not to operate with two people aboard due to the machine becoming very unstable and uncontrollable. Second, night riding along with inexperienced operators are major players as well. Many snowmobilers at night outrun their headlight. Scott Hershey proved it that night. The snowmobile was running at a speed that exceeded a reasonable night time speed limit. There is no greater rush than running a flat snow covered lake at 80-100 mph at night. But when you have two inexperienced operators on a machine with the capability of causing great harm at high speeds, the end conclusion can be quite fatal. Again, alcohol is a problem in the sport of snowmobiling and it definitely impaired the judgment of both Randy and Scott that night. Alcohol and the fore-mentioned ingredients will likely increase the chances of fatal collisions. Newcomers to the sport need to take a safety course and get involved in a club. Take responsibility for individual actions and understand the consequences. Hopefully, authorities will recognize that more enforcement is needed in a sport where alcohol is not the only contributing factor in deadly collisions. Thank You for Listening.
--John

P.S.: Of the 77 deaths that were reported over the last two years, it is astounding to know that many of those are from IL, IN, OH, or IA. Just a little fact that was missed.


Although I, along with so many others, am deeply saddened by the death of anchor Randy Salerno, I do not believe the reputation of snowmobiling in general, and snowmobilers alike should be tarnished. As a college student, I have been exposed to many situations, and what is the underlying factor? Alcohol. Alcohol mixed with recklessness can turn anything deadly, from cars, ATVs, boats, snowmobiles, you name it.
However, not everyone drinks and drives, just like not every driver out on the Dan Ryan at night is driving drunk. Its sad that the subculture of snowmobiling serves as a stereotype for the entire sport. Never once did you hear in these reports that Ron Rhodes, owner of St. Germain Rentals where Salerno's snowmobile was supposedly from, teaches the Snowmobile Safety course year after year. What one point do you think they emphasize? The dangers of driving under the influence. I know, because I have taken a similar class. Also, where was the mention of the annual Snowmobile Championship Derby that takes place in Eagle River, WI, and draws crowds from afar, providing entertainment and fun for people of all ages? This sport helps the communities and towns thrive in the winter, and gives us a whole other glimpse of the great outdoors. Maybe you should show both sides of the story. If alcohol is the main topic, that's great, but to soley focus on snowmobiling is wrong. I have been going up to St. Germain since I was born, and those trails are some of the best marked anywhere, as are many of those around the area. Northern Wisconsin is known for its abundance of criss-crossing trails that run for hundreds of miles. People put time and money into their care, so it should not be taken lightly and made out like someone just went around and posted signs at whim. I hope in the future you might be able to shed a better light upon this sport for the thousands that know nothing about it. However, I am firm agreement that, like with any sport, NOT drinking and driving is of utmost importance. Please do not punish us all or cast us a in bad light because we are "snowmobilers." My condolences to the CBS news crew and the Salerno family.
--Kelly Nega, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

P.S.: Also, I am one of the people that frequents northern Wisconsin (i.e. Eagle River, Minocqua, Sayner, and has a place in St.Germain) multiple times throughout the year.


I am very sorry to say that your report left me rather upset. I am 21 years old and I have been riding those same snowmobile trails for years. My family has been doing the same. Your report made it seem as though almost everyone who rides those trails does so drunk. If you consider the number of snowmobiles that frequent those trails and the number of accidents, it is not as bad as you made it sound. Now I am not saying that there should be any accidents on those trails, as I find it wrong too to drive those trails drunk, but my family and I know that you do not ride the trails after midnight, or even much after dark, not only because of the possibility of drunk drivers, but because those trails are not like driving on a road with a car. They require full attention and a lot of physical work, and doing so after dark is very, very difficult. And the man in the interview stated that the trail was improperly marked with no light at the entrance. If they had ridden the trails before, they would have known that the only markings on a snowmobile trail are typically those small, orange, triangular signs. The addition of the larger yellow sign is a real warning to a snowmobiler. There are never lights on a snowmobile trail, regardless of danger. Also, they should have never ridden a trail at night that they have not ridden in the day. The bartender did his part in asking the men in the video if they wanted a cab. And it was said that the rider on the back of the snowmobile in the accident was there because of a dead battery on his snowmobile, but someone who rides snowmobiles and has knowledge of them knows that when a battery is dead and the key will not start the snowmobile, you simply pull start the snowmobile with the rope and handle located by the riders right knee. Also, any snowmobiler ridding across a lake does so at a higher rate of speed because of less obstacles. It is very possible that the driver was going way too fast for his abilities, in addition to the fact that he had a passenger, which automatically means that speed must be reduced. It seems as though a large part of this accident was due to ignorance of the practices of snowmobiling, which is partly due to the lack of people enrolled in snowmobile safety courses, which I took myself. Now I am not trying to point a finger in any of this. Accidents, however horribly, happen for unexplained reasons. In anything I have said, I do not mean to make the assumption that any of these mistakes were made by the driver of the snowmobile in the accident, I am simply saying that there are many more factors to an accident than just alcohol, regardless of how often it plays a part in an accident. Lack of knowledge and experience typically plays the largest factor, especially in a snowmobile accident. Yet still, my sincere condolences go out to the Salerno family and the WGN family, and all other news programs on the loss of a family member and a great newscaster.
--Sincerely, Nicholas Dobes


I don't usually watch Channel 2 news but I just happened to stay tuned tonight to your story about snowmobiling safety concerns in Northern Wisconsin. Having been a snowmobiler for more than 25 years and choosing to do most of that snowmobiling in Wisconsin, I have concerns about your story. Snowmobiling is not safe when the rules are not followed. Drinking and driving a snowmobile is not a wise decision. The same can be said for driving an automobile, a motorcycle, a boat, or any motorized vehicle. If you go to the Wisconsin DNR website and click on snowmobiling, you will find a pdf copy of the snowmobile guide and rules that are sent to every registered snowmobile owner in the state. That guide speaks specifically to the rules of drinking alcohol and operating snowmobiles. In fact, I believe you will find similar language in the Wisconsin DNR boating registration material. The problem is people making the wrong decision to drink and operate a snowmobile. The daily news everywhere notes similar accidents and deaths for the same reason with automobiles, motorcycles, and boats. In fact, I would strongly urge you to do a similar story this summer on the Chain of Lakes in Lake County, Illinois. The Chain of Lakes represents the same challenge in the summer with an over abundance of boat traffic, perhaps even too much for the water acreage available with too many big, fast boats full of people who are traveling from bar to bar, and who then make unwise decisions about driving their boat under the influence and maybe even getting to their car from the boat to travel home still under the influence of alcohol. The counties you mentioned in your story in Wisconsin have the heaviest snowmobile traffic of the entire state. Thus, the high number of accidents there would be similar to comparing the number of traffic fatalities in Cook county compared to the rest of the state of Illinois. In other words, not all of the accidents there are due to drinking and riding but there are more total accidents there because so many riders there. The snow conditions in those two counties have the most consistent favorable conditions for weather and trails in the state of Wisconsin; thus, the number of riders is significant there throughout the winter. Please don't misunderstand my intent here. I do not disagree that snowmobiling can be an unsafe sport. However, it is no more dangerous than any other sport where motorized vehicles are used and the safety rules are not followed. I think it is great that you are working to make something positive happen from Randy's death; however, please make sure the message is that we all need to follow the rules and be responsible for own actions, and not to suggest that a sport is entirely bad because some choose to make the wrong decisions. 
--Pam Haley


I have been snowmobiling in the north woods of wisconsin for past 18 years. I believe snowmobiling is safe up there the snowmobile clubs take lots of time marking grooming and clearing trails up there. I believe snowmobiling is as safe as you make it everything in life has it's risks,boating,jet skiing, racing cars and even everyday you get into a automobile. They usually get lot of snowfall up there so unexpected tree limbs fall. Unfourtunately there is people who drink and ride. I believe one thing they can do is more safety checking making sure signs are visible fix any signs that knocked down between St. Germain and Boulder Jct. is lots of riding. Wisconsin has a speed limit law at dark which is a very good law they passed at dark there is a max speed limit of 50 mph that applies to Lake Crossing and riding the land trails. I think that was best law came up with because people like to go fast on lakes and at night that is not good. I cant think of too many things to make it safer but having night time speed limits and trail signage checks and clearing any fallen trees is a improvment. as for controling the alcohol and riding I will have to say good luck to a solution to that. Not everybody has to choose to drink and ride.
--Anonymous


This is just sensational journalism! Only report the bad things that a very small group of snowmobilers do, a small percentage of people are ruining a great sport, Snowmobiles are only as safe as the person driving the snowmobile. Lets condemn every person who rides a snowmobile because a bunch of people are stupid and drive drunk. You should do a report about all the volunteers who teach our children proper safety for snowmobiling, in Illinois several hundred children ages 12 - 16 go thru an 8 hour class and pass a test to get a safety certificate to be able to ride a snowmobile, in Wisconsin if you are born after a certain date you are required to take a safety class and carry your card for the rest of your life. All the volunteers who mark the trails and raise money so we can put in trails. All the family events that snowmobile clubs do for their member families, do some research on what snowmobiling really is all about, you might learn something. You report on something that you have no idea about after researching the subject for 10 minuites and make everybody who watches the news think you are experts, maybe you should have contacted someone in the Illinois association of snowmobile clubs or Wisconsin association of snowmobile clubs to get some information that is true. 90% of the news is negative and 10% is positive, maybe if you tried and reversed that our society might just be a little better off.
--Roger Clause


Snowmobiling is as safe as the people that are enjoying the sport allow it to be. I am an avid snowmobiler and these types of incidents are very detrimental to the public perception of the sport. Ever since the terrible incident with Randy Salerno, several people have asked me my opinion about it. My reaction is that it is a popular sport because of the speed and risk that are inherent to the sport. I would agree that the latest technology has created snowmobiles that can reach dangerous speeds, especially in the hands of novice riders. The risks and dangers exist partially because of the type of terrain that the trails are on. With the desire for the beauty of the remote areas comes the risk of unknown terrain lurking around the next turn. There can be rocks that have found their way to the surface or branches that have fallen that can be very hazardous. This all leads back to driving under control and knowing your limits. When I go riding with others, we usually get up and get going early so as to beat "the crowds" and ride for a good day. We usually try to be close to home by around dinner time, stop for dinner at a local establishment and we are home by 8:00 or 9:00pm. We feel that it is after this hour that the "crazy" things start to happen. This is when the riders that have been sitting at the bars all day long decide to head home. We prefer to be home by the time they hit the trails. By riding responsibly and by riding under control we are able to enjoy a family sport. My kids, 6 and 8, have both enjoyed days with me on the trails. Both of them can not wait until the next time they get to ride with me. By teaching them the safety aspects of the sport at an early age I feel confident that they will be able to enjoy the sport for years to come. Snowmobile manufacturers have increased annually their marketing campaigns toward "ride responsibly". There are signs all over the trails, in publications, and in local businesses that remind riders constantly to "ride responsibly". Even the major beer manufacturers have signs and the sort in constant display reminding riders of the same. Yes the deaths are mounting. This is partially due to the great conditions that are prevailing in the Northwoods this year. It has been several years since the weather has cooperated to provide excellent riding conditions like it has this year. With more ideal conditions, come more riders. With more riders come more accidents. Unfortunately, the good riding conditions seem to be located from central WI and to the North. This puts more riders in a more concentrated area. Therefore increasing the risk. Yes there are people who push the limit. What aspect of life do we experience every day that people do not push the limit? Legislation also has changed recently to require any new riders (I am not sure of the birth date) to complete a safety certification class before renting or riding a snowmobile in the State of Wisconsin. Again, another way that safety is being taught or put in front of peoples' face prior to riding a snowmobile. I am sorry but I could go on for a while on how I think that there are just a few bad apples out there ruining the batch. It is those bad apples that create the bad press and bad reputation for the sport. On any Saturday of Sunday you could be on the trails and see many families out there enjoying the sport. Moms and Dads riding double with their little ones or even older kids riding their own sleds with mom and dad in a line is an awesome sight to see. I do not consider riding a snowmobile any more dangerous than driving a car. There are just a few more variables that can be caused by Mother Nature and the heavy concentration of people on a limited number of trails for such a few available weekends a year. Thank You for your time.
--Sincerely, Dan Cirrincione


Is the establishment Randy and friend stopped to have drinks along the snowmobile route? How about a law refusing to serve alcohol to people who are going back on the snowmobile? Surely they can wait until the course is completed. At least the accidents, injuries and death caused by drinking and driving will be prevented. It seems some experience should be required before renting one to drive a course for first time users, like a trial run just to become familiar with driving a snowmobile. There seems to be a high percentage of accidents but unpublicized until a famous person is injured or dies and Randy's untimely death has made more people aware of how dangerous it can be without following the rules and learning how to drive it correctly.
--Pauline Tanabe


Yes Snowmobiling is very safe! However, certain people on snowmobiles make them dangerous as well as a lack of knowledge and education of the sport. For starters Wisconsin should make it mandatory that in order to ride a sled they must take the Wi DNR sponsored snowmobile safety class. By educating more riders it will make the trails safer. This should also apply to everyone renting a snowmobile too. Years ago we never had a high number of deaths. Then again years ago in order to go snowmobiling you had to purchase your sled or borrow someone's snowmobile. The snowmobile rental companies began in the late 1980's. Randy Salerno's death is very sad! I hope we can learn from this and make the sport safer.
--Greg Kukla


It infuriates me to see Randy's friends saying that alcohol wasn't the contributor to the accident. They said it was due to the "conditions" of the evening including "coldness" and the trails not being well marked. We have a cabin in St. Germain and enjoy snowmobiling during winter getaways. First of all, the trails are very well marked.The bottom line is that you don't speed excessively when exiting a lake! While most snowmobilers do fly across the frozen lakes, everyone knows to slow down when you approach the land on the opposite side. Especially if it's dark and you're unsure of the trail. That is, unless, your blood alcohol level is .225, I guess. The only way to "launch" your snowmobile 46 feet into the air is by going extremely fast crossing the lake and NOT slowing down when you reach the land on the other side. In this case it was an incline. Randy's friends can say all they want about Scott Hirschey not appearing "that drunk", but it's obvious that he was going way too fast for the conditions, and that's what people do when they're drunk. What a horrible, preventable loss. My husband and I occasionally take our sleds out to local bars at night. But only bars within a mile or two of our cabin. Having driven after a few cocktails, you definately feel more invincible and want to go faster. Luckily, we control that feeling since we've read enough DNR fatality reports....we always drive responsibly, but not the guys who go up there once a year with other guys and bar hop. They don't know how likely accidents can happen.
--Anonymous


Like anything, it's the operator, not the machine, that's the problem. It's ridiculous that Wisconsin doesn't tie fines to driver's licenses, but the state makes so much money from the bars and tourism in the winter that if drinking and snowmobiling together was discouraged the snowmobilers wouldn't come and that would be economically devastating to these areas. My next comment has nothing to do with drinking while snowmobiling but with a frustration I've had for years. In Libertyville we have problems with snowmobilers using the Des Plaines River Trail where there are no snowmobiles allowed at all, at night but also during the day when pedestrians are on these trails! We are lucky a pedestrian hasn't been killed. The signage is inadequate (only stating no motor vehicles allowed on very small signs) but we can't seem to get additional signs put up. But I suspect the snowmobilers know they're not allowed because everywhere else that it's legal to snowmobile (like out at Lakewood) there are trail markers and directional markers all aimed at the snowmobilers, and pedestrians are not allowed on the trails for safety reasons. But it's hard to catch them because the rangers are in cars, not on the trails, and are spread thinly through the county. I'm afraid someone's going to have to get killed before they take the complaints seriously. Snowmobiles do not mix with horses, dog walkers, and cross-country skiiers. We need better enforcement and signage. Thanks.
--Holly Schmaling


I am only 14 years old and I am an avid snowmobiler. We have a cabin in Boulder Junction, WI., so I am very familiar with the area where the accident occured. I had to go through an 8 hour snowmobile certification course to get certified to drive a snowmobile. We put on a couple hundred miles a day when we go. It is a very fun a enjoyable sport. I admit that is very dangerous. Only when you are unfamiliar with snowmobiling, ill prepared, and especially when alcohol is involved. Stopping at the bars is a ritual to snowmobiling, its part of the sport, even though I don't drink I ride with older people who do. I try to make sure they don't drink too much because I would never let anyone I'm with ride impaired, so I would go out and take the keys out of their sled if it came to that. l have to admit that they are crazy machines, I have had mine up to 100 MPH. It's important to be prepared, I ride with extra clothes, gloves, socks, survival gear, cell phone, knife and much more. When riding at night more precautions must be taken. What probably happened in this accident was that the driver over ran his headlights. What that is is that when your going so fast that buy the time something is within your headlights, you won't have enough time to stop and avoid it. It is hard navigating over an unmarked lake at night, I have goten lost before and its scary, you should never ride alone. I always wear a helmet and warm clothing. I think it may be hard to cut the death toll down but it could be done. More awareness about not driving under the influence, maybe the bartenders could watch the amount of drinks they serve to a person. You can have fun just dont drink!!! its a recipe for disaster. If you are well prepared, familiar with the area, not drunk, and not riding alone It can be a very fun time. And two people should not ride on a one person sled unless its an emergency, it makes it hard to countrol your sled because you have to lean into your turns so you dont flip over. And not once in my riding have I come across any law enforcment. That is just my 2 cents. If you have any questions email me back.
--Axel Mozal


I have family members who go snowmobiling regularly, much to my dismay. A few weeks ago, when I had the pleasure of spending time listening to my 7 year old great nephew and his exploits, I asked him about a rather large, protruding bump on his forehead. My precious great nephew responded that they had crashed and he bumped his head which broke his helmet! Thank God he at least had on a helmet. I feel that it is extremely irresponsible for my adult nephew to go snowmobiling and worst of all take his 4 children on these forays into danger. He's a great Dad, but for some reason insists on carrying on with this insane activity. I'm all for spending quality family time and I love that he does inclusive outings, but I pray that he finds something else for them to do. I believe wholeheartedly that when you have children, your responsibility is to play it safe, I know stuff can happen in the most innocent of situations, but why add fuel to the fire. I found out that barely the day after Randy's horrible and fatal snowmobile accident, my nephew was out snowmobiling with the kids again. I have not directly begged him to stop this for fear of alienating him. But, I can tell you, losing Randy, someone who I met only once and did not know personally, left me with such a sense of loss and pain, I don't even want to think of how devastated I would be if I lost a family member so senselessly. Thanks to the CBS 2 Investigators and Randy's friends for enlightening the general public as to the potential dangers of snowmobiles. Perhaps a piece on safely operating a snowmobile, particularly in Chicago and outlying areas and where there are clearly marked trails. One last suggestion, maybe by mandating a limit as to how fast the speed can be set on snowmobiles for recreational use would help to minimize fatalities.
--Rita


I am 36 years old, married to a wonderful husband who is soon to be 40 and also have a 15 year old son. The three of us are avid snowmobilers. My husband has been riding snowmobiles since he was 12. My son at the age of 11 took and received his snowmobile safety certificate from the Illinois DNR to be able to ride his own sled. While we are very saddened about the loss of Randy Salerno, we are even more saddened by your piece that aired this evening portraying snowmobilers as "drunks". Not all snowmobilers are just out to go to the bars and have a good 'ol time, and if you really look at the statistics of the snowmobile related deaths, yes alcohol and speed may have attributed to the accident, but where were those people from? Alot of the deaths occurring in Wisconsin are people from the state of Wisconsin, not all out of state people. I realize that Channel 2 was just trying to put an awareness out to the public, but as a family of 3 who registers, insures and pays the yearly trail permit fee's when riding out of state this dosen't mean that we just go to Wisconsin or Michigan to drink. We work very hard throughout the summer to be able to go away in the winter time to enjoy our most loved hobby of snowmobiling. We spend thousands of dollars on machines, clothing, hotels and rental properties, not to mention contributing to Michigan's and Wisconsin's failing economy. The people of these two states depend on out of state visitors like ourselves to take care of their own families and welfare. What we don't spend thousands of dollars on is alcohol! There is responsibility when getting on a machine like these. They are making them faster and faster year after year. Not everybody is out in the beautiful northwoods for a race from bar to bar. That would be like saying that everybody who owns a boat on the Chain O'Lakes only owns a boat to go from bar to bar. Thanks for giving us snowmobilers another black eye. Next time maybe you should do a bit more research on how enjoyable the sport can be focusing on the positives and not solely on the negative which Channel 2 seems to always manage to do. I'll have you know that we only tuned in to see this piece tonight and are appalled to say the least!


You ask if snowmobiling is safe? It's as safe as the people at the controls of the machine. If you drink, and drive faster than the speed limit, at night, on unfamiliar trails, your chances of returning home safely are still pretty good. But there are the occasional deaths that happen in these situations. But, somehow, the fault for the deaths is always blamed on the bars. Or on the trail conditions. Or on the fast snowmobiles. Or on some other cause, other than the basic deadly combinatiin of circumstances that lead to the death. As a lifelong resident of Sayner, Wisconsin, where the snowmobile was invented, and where Randy Salerno was killed, I think I have a rather unique perspective on this question. I've been snowmobiling since I was 8 years old. And even though I'm now legally blind, I still enjoy the sport, just as a passenger these days. I've also been to the South Side of Chicago. As a caucasian male, I was actually warned, by a police officer no less, to get my arse out of the South Side neighborhood I had ventured into. So my little comment boils down to this: I feel safer snowmobiling than I do walking in certain neighborhoods in the Chicago area.
--Kerry Thomas, Sayner, WI


Our sympathy goes out to the Salerno family and CBS News Chicago. Your story tonight regarding the safety of snowmobiles is rather biased against the sport! My husband and I and our children and now grandchildren have been snowmobiling in Northern Wisconsin for over 30 years and not one time has any of us ever been involved in any type of accident. As in anything you do in life, you must be responsible! Speed and alcohol kills, be it on a sled or in a car...it's wrong. Yes, we have been in the bars and on occasion one of us has been "over served", but as responsible snowmobilers, we have left sleds at bars and doubled up with a non drinker to insure that no one drives drunk! Unfortunately, an accident like this where these guys were having a good time, had a couple of drinks and probably were traveling too fast resulted in the loss of a loved one..but it didn't have to be that way. This biased story makes all of us snowmobilers sound like a bunch of speed happy drunks...and it's just not true! We were at the Sayner Pub two days before Randy Salerno and his group were there...a fine establishment with great food! We followed the trails and returned safely to our place in St Germain with no incidents. St Germain and Eagle River have some of the best marked trails around and we have a planned trip over the Valentines weekend with not only our daughters and son, but also our 4 year old and 1 year old grandsons..yes, they will ride with us on our family rides...safely as we are courteous, responsible snowmobilers!!
--J. Walton


My prayers go out to the Salerno Family! I have been watching Randy since channel 9. What a sad time in all of your lives. Last Friday I lost a friend in a snow mobile accident, but liquor was not involved, soft patch on the ice and someone who was new to snow mobiling, this happened in WI also. There has to be a way to keep everyone safe, there has to be a law that training has to be involved to get a license? There has to be more police or protrol out there watching and making sure people are safe. My Friend leaves behind a beautiful wife, son and new baby girl. As all of you feel this wasn't Randy's time nor my friends, to leave us, so young, so much life to live! Please find a way to make the snow mobile trails safe, the bar owners take responsibilty for serving liq, driving is driving, car, boat, wave runner, motor cycle, snow mobile, all rules should apply for all! I watched your segment tonight and please keep reporting find a way to stop the deaths!
--Donna Vece


We just watched your segment on snowmobile deaths in Wisconsin. While we are saddened by the loss of your colleague Randy Salerno, we did not appreciate your reporter sensationalizing this tragedy. You overlooked the fact that thousands of people do snowmobile every day in Wisconsin who do not drink and drive. We have ridden in the areas that you showed for the last 25 years and now our children and their friends are riding. We have constantly stressed the importance of not drinking and driving whether it's on a sled, a motorcyle, or in a car. Instead of hiding cameras and showing the ones who do break the law, how about showing the many who are responsible enough to respect the sport. Yes, Wisconsin does have a problem with the amount of deaths, but please don't give the entire sport and industry a black eye because of those who choose to be irresponsible.
--M.L. Turchi

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