Judy Sielaff Photo Members of the Niagara High School forensics team performed to the Golden K club. From left, front row, Alex Tripp, Andar Olson, Emma Brasure, and Mary Walenski; back row, Golden K Chairman Gilbert Engel, Tristan Coolbaugh, Rocco Santora, Tommy Martin, Dante Stachowicz, Gavin Neuens and Parker Decremer.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

Kingsford — There was no tornado, hurricane or flood — just snow, snow and more snow. Snow can be shoveled away without too many aftereffects. Sore backs and tired arms will ease up in time. The snow eventually melts away and the sun arrives to shine again. Maple trees are tapped and hopes of spring are renewed.

Weathering the ups and downs of winter, the Golden K seniors take it all in stride as they gathered once again on Monday morning.

Chair Gilbert Engel raised the gavel to bring the group to their feet to start the meeting. Alyce Derwinski persuaded the piano with her nimble fingers, bringing music to the room. Bill Roberts humbly exuded expertise directing the group singing.

Guests from the Niagara High School Forensics Speech Team were greeted with a few renditions of some oldies. Since there is a substantial generation gap, the old songs generated a few puzzled looks as the kids graciously took their seats and smiled.

Roberts picked up his winnings from the 50-50 drawing. Happy Dollars reflected thoughts of great times on vacation, family visitations and Dorleen Uhazie being honored at Women’s Club Convention in Bay City.

Orice Walters read a poem sent to her from Janice (Johnson) Bower remembering her days living in the Upper Peninsula.

A monetary donation was received from the daughter of Donnell Swanson who was a former Golden K member. Swanson’s wish was to have this money used for the party events for children with special needs. Golden K is grateful for the donation and will gladly use it according to his wishes.

The Niagara High School forensics speech team is the largest in the state of Wisconsin. The Golden K is privileged to have witnessed their proficiency on previous occasions. As this group presented the program, they mesmerized the seniors with talent, knowledge and ability to entertain. The demonstration was replete with style and professionalism. They will certainly bring pride to their parents and school in future competitions.

The category of Informative Speaking was presented by Rocco Santora. It covered the importance of personal health. He emphasized the need to develop a positive mindset concerning diet, exercise and healthy recreation. Caring for yourself in a balanced program helps an individual of any age maintain strong bones, an alert mind and a zest to make each day better than the one before.

Andar Olson spoke about veterans, bringing awareness to the need for services caring for soldiers. Veterans today require specialized medical assistance and treatment for depression, drugs, alcohol and PTSD. They have seen things that are disturbing and unforgettable. Today’s men and women in all branches of military service have made sacrifices for each of us. They need to know they are appreciated. Remember to say “thank you.”

Mary Walenski and Emma Brasure gave a Demonstration Speaking presentation on making origami flowers. Using three items ­–paper, rubber bands and scissors — they guided us through the creation of an origami flower. The flowers can be used as gift bag bows, decorations, or even a rainy day project for children. The demonstration was impressive.

The category Solo Acting-Serious or Humorous was represented by Tristan Coolbaugh. In this demonstration, he depicted three men in a military inquisition investigating the questionable death of a soldier. There was a questioning lawyer, the accused colonel, and the judge. Coolbaugh emphatically jumped in and out of his three roles with pointed questions, angry retorts, and judicial sentencing. This scene taken from the movie “A Few Good Men” captivated the audience.

The final demonstration was by Dante Stachowicz, Gavin Neuens, Parker Decremer, Tommy Martin and Alex Tripp. The category was Group Interpretive Reading. The dialog was taken from “The Midwest Survival Guide” as an excerpt on drivers from the Midwest. Coordinating precise movements, they recited and compared Midwestern techniques to other drivers. It was amusing and pointedly accurate. Humorous local driving etiquette observations included giving directions by describing landmarks: “Turn by the gray house and continue until the red barn.”

Also essential is the 12 steps to a goodbye. One does not just say goodbye and leave, it’s a process.

These students represent their peers, family and school with dignity and pride. Golden K wishes them success in their competitive ventures.

Monday’s meeting will feature a representative from the Iron Mountain Downtown Development Authority. All are welcome.