Bring on the snowmobiles, as trails are groomed to perfection. Wax up those skies to enjoy the waiting trails ski trails. The most adventuresome individuals are on the lakes in ice shacks ready for serious fishing. For those not quite so active, a big thanks for the snowplows that keep the path to shopping open.

Golden K resumed their weekly Monday meetings this week with “Happy New Year” greetings all around.

Bill Roberts brought the group together with opening ceremonies. A newer piano awaited Alyce Derwinski’s nimble fingers. Richard Ochoa teamed up with Jonathan Ringel to animate the singing. With everything in place, music resounded throughout the room.

The guest speaker for the day was Ringel, executive director of the Northern Lights YMCA.

Jonathan Ringel, left, executive director of the Northern Lights YMCA, and Golden K Chairperson Bill Roberts at Monday's meeting.

In attendance were this year’s scholarship recipients, Amber Gibbs and Vanessa Lanthier. Gibbs brought her husband, Jason “Jay,” who was a welcome energetic addition.

Guests Clayton and Sue Lepola also joined the group and kicked off their celebration of 50 years together with song.

Sarah Godspodarek graciously accepted her winnings from the 50-50 drawing. Happy Dollar thoughts shared Lynn LaVigne gratefulness for her best friend since the ’70s, as well as members happy to have blessed holidays with family and friends. Derwinski welcomed four additional great-grandchildren. Happy birthday wishes went out to Lynn Lavigne and Brett Calcari.

The Golden K presented scholarships to two Bay College students. Golden K awards two scholarships to non-traditional students who are working towards improving their daily life through education. Scholarship chairman Gilbert Engel presented Gibbs and Lanthier with $750 each toward school expenses.

Golden K conducts yearly scholarship fundraiser in September. With community support, they are able to help two students further an education and follow their dreams.

Guest speaker Ringel brought a plethora of information regarding happenings at the local YMCA. As executive director and with a staff of dedicated people, the YMCA has become a very busy outlet for all ages. From daycare to senior programs, they have something for everyone.

Ringel works closely with the YMCA in Escanaba, as well as many local businesses who lend their support. Systems Controls, CCI, the Crystal Lake Community Center, Bay College, and Marshfield Hospital are a few of the many corporate supporters. Individual donors support the programs, help with maintenance, and of course provide volunteer and staff support.

They are a vital part of a community that works together like a well-oiled machine. Whether as a donor or a participant, being involved with the YMCA benefits all.

Honestly, there is so much going on at the YMCA that the community should go to their website at https://nlymca.com/dickinson/ or stop in for available publications.

Serving this area since 2010, they have more than 3,600 members and 500 program participants. There are various camp opportunities for spring, summer and winter sports. Whether it’s gymnastics, exercise, afterschool activities, or even swing dance, there is something for everyone.

Financial membership assistance is available to make the programs accessible to as many as possible.

Then there is the pool. Not only are lifeguard classes available, but also lessons, individual and swim teams events. How about a birthday party at the pool?

Collaborating with schools, hospitals other non-profit organizations, they provide a wide range of services enhancing the community.

Golden K meets at 10 a.m. every Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. Members are age 55 and older; however, the meetings are open to all.

If a program draws your interest, you are welcome to attend.

Next week’s speaker will be Gino Venditti, who wears many hats. Venditti is an Ivy League beekeeper, maple syrup producer and wine vintner.

Golden K has parties three times a year for children with special needs. They welcome anyone interested in helping during the event. Feb. 2 will be their Valentine’s party at the church.

Join in the fun and it will be an experience you will treasure.