Judy Sielaff, Golden K chairperson, introduces guests Oliver Polkinghorne, Ward Johnson’s grandson, and Ward Johnson of Bluff Bear Bait and Guide Service. (Joanne Lindholm photo)

KINGSFORD — August has made its appearance, slowly easing out summer. Camping trips, special events, and crazy lazy days will soon be fond memories. Seasons come and go, each one with unique opportunities. Beginning with planting, then the growing. Next comes the reaping and abundant harvest with fall. Enjoying the fruit, vegetable and flower displays gives way finally to picturesque colors as trees ready themselves for rest.

Getting together on Monday morning, the Golden K seniors recall weekend activities over coffee.

There is always lively conversation mixed with necessary business. Opening ceremonies bring the group together.

With Sue LeDuc on piano and Judy Sielaff leading the singing, music fills the room.

The Welcome Song was sung for Ward Johnson, Oliver Polkinghorne, Fawn Polkinghorne, Lucy Krznarich, and Lynn Welsh. Happy Birthday wishes went to Steve Mulka. Sue Proudfit took home the 50-50 winnings. Happy dollars reflected great times with family, nice weather to share with friends, and wise words from Sarah Gospodarek, “Accept what is, let go of what was, and have faith in what will be.”

As chairperson, Judy Sielaff, reminded members of the upcoming Ice Cream Social on Aug. 14, sponsored by the Dickinson-Iron Community Services Agency.

The annual Golden K Peanut Fundraiser is scheduled for Aug. 29, with a rain date of Aug. 30. Mark your calendars, since time seems to move faster than we do. These events will be here before you know it.

Sielaff introduced the guest speaker with a quote from The National Park Service’s public service announcements: “Don’t push your slow friends in front of a bear.” “Lions, Tigers and Bears Oh My!”

We don’t have to worry about lions or tigers, but there are bears in the U.P. Ward Johnson operates the Bluff Bear Bait and Guide service on the corner of M-95 and Johnson Road. He is an avid hunter and intensely focused on black bears. He has studied habits and understands their motivations. Since acquiring a tag for bear hunting has become a challenge, he felt the need to develop his service and shop.

Coming from a family of bear hunters, Johnson has developed a respect for this animal and shares that with potential hunters. Beginning in 1991, a bear hunting tag could no longer be bought over the counter. It is currently obtained through a lottery program. It can take several tries to obtain a permit to hunt bear.

In Michigan, the application process involves a preference point drawing system. Points are issued and accumulate, making it easier to get a tag.

Johnson has learned a great deal by watching bears and understanding their habits. He can teach valuable lessons about what to do and not to do if you find yourself in a compromising situation with a bear. These are valuable tools for both hunter and hiker.

Johnson’s extensive experience makes him a well-qualified guide for interested bear hunters. The goal is always a safe, successful hunt. He presented a pamphlet containing general facts about Michigan black bears. He provided pictures and factual information on the habits of bears through each season. Bears prefer heavy forest areas, swamps, and a quietness around them. They do not like people or other bears in close proximity. They ferociously protect their young if threatened. They require a lot of calories and will go wherever needed to find food. They need certain kinds of food to sustain them through the various seasons. Their cycle of hibernation, denning, reproduction and maternal care are extraordinary biological events.

More detailed information is available by calling or texting Johnson at his shop, Bluff Bait and Guide Service, at 906-396-7314. Regular seasonal hours for the shop are Aug. 1 through Sept. 25.

Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. All are welcome.