Golden K Chairwoman Orice Walters introduces guest speaker Lennie Walters, who spoke about the Kiwanis Ski Club.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — People who live in the Upper Peninsula stay aware of change. One doesn’t put away the snow removal equipment just because of melting and a bit of green grass. Daffodils popped up, crocus bloomed, and Yoopers held out. In our neighborhood, it’s prudent to wait until morning to prepare for the day ahead. The Golden K seniors accept change as part of the daily routine with the Monday meeting being a priority regardless of snowy circumstances.

Chairperson Orice Walters called the meeting to order and Alyce Derwinski was ready with music selections for the day. She treated the group to a solo of “Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!” Bill Roberts undauntedly led the singing into the tune “April Showers.” Continuing this unusual repertoire, Roberts finished by leading the singers through a rendition of “Bye Bye Blackbird.”

After harmonizing a variety of oldies, the group sang “Happy Birthday” to Joe Santi and Vance Uhazie, both celebrate on April 19. Joanne Lindholm gladly picked up the 50-50 winnings and Lennie Walters was welcomed as the guest speaker.

“What a weekend it was!” Lennie Walters was referring to the International Ski Federation (FIS) Continental Cup Ski Tournament that took place in March at Pine Mountain.

There were record crowds and fantastic weather for the entire weekend. Seven countries competed and entertained with outstanding ski jumping skills. The hill record stands at 466 feet. Long hours of preparation on behalf of the skiers and the Kiwanis Ski Club came to culminated in grand style on the newly built ski scaffold.

There is still much work to be done entailing hours of meetings and planning ahead. Volunteers are diligently working towards fulfilling the requirements set by the International Federation of Skiing and Snowboarding.

Walters and his crew of volunteers are looking ahead to the challenge of installing an elevator. This is a costly undertaking. It is necessary in order to bring the World Cup Tournament to Pine Mountain.

Walters explained FIS rules and details mandated for competitions. The scaffold, landing, and equipment are monitored to check the skiers speed and distance. The jump and the skiers must meet the standards or risk disqualification. Most spectators pick a good spot and watch without realizing all it takes to put this event together.

As with any event of this magnitude, there are many peripheral challenges. Equipment set up, parking organization, and skier accommodations are just a few.

Dickinson County Road Commission Directing Manager Jim Harris and Dickinson County Controller Brian Bosley gave immense support to Walters and the event. They had solutions in progress almost before he finished asking.

Walters and the Kiwanis expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic support from the new owners of the Pine Mountain Resort. Great response from the public, and assistance from the Long Riders Bike Club contributed to the event’s smooth running and success. Bay College parking and bus transport eased traffic congestion. Divinely good weather cooperated to make this tournament a huge success.

The Iron Mountain Jazz Band under the direction of Craig Recla will present the program for Golden K on Monday. All are welcome.