From left, Golden K chairperson Sharon Scholke, speaker Ann Hruska, Lake Antoine Park Partners board member and Lois Outcelt, Golden K board member.

IRON MOUNTAIN — The Golden K senior group gathered Monday at the First Presbyterian Church for their usual weekly meeting.

August chairperson Sharon Scholke led the group in “God Bless America.” Alyce Derwinski on piano gave a signal to Lois Outcelt and the singing continued. The group filled the room with their rendition of several “oldies.”

Ann Hruska was welcomed as a guest. Happy Birthday wishes were sent to Darrell Miller for Aug. 12 and Margaret Trudell for Aug. 13.

Joanne Lindholm happily picked up her winnings from the 50-50 drawing and Happy Dollars reflected great times with family and friends over the weekend.

Lois Outcelt introduced guest speaker Ann Hruska, who is a member of the non-profit group Lake Antoine Park Partners, or LAPP. Hruska brought the group up to date on recent changes and improvements planned at the lake.

The mission statement for LAPP is “Preserve, Promote and Protect Lake Antoine Park in Dickinson County, Michigan for the use and benefit of the general public.” Working closely with the county, and with help from grants and donations, they are continuing to enthusiastically fulfill that mission down to the fine print.

Events such as Saturday night free movies, concerts, and family fishing are just a few of the many activities in the park that are open to the public. There are activities throughout the year, although most things happen during the summer. Check out the website lakeantoinepark.org or the Daily News for event times and dates.

Hruska related some of the history behind the park, the island and surrounding areas. Many of the Golden K seniors offered stories and experiences they had growing up around the lake. The beautiful view surrounding the lake includes Millie Hill, Pine Mountain Ski Slide, Traders Mine area, and a bit of the city skyline.

Many remembered stopping by the bubbling “Old Faceful” well for a cool, refreshing drink. Perhaps readers remember Goulette’s Ice House, riding a bike to the beach, or just watching the sun set over the water. Hruska took the Golden K back into the 1800s with her historical findings of this unique park.

Do you know how it got its name? Did you know the island has had three different names? Have you heard about the trading post on the west end of the lake that existed before mining and logging came to this area? Future renovations will reveal those secrets. Hruska has done substantial research on park history. She and her team are planning a display board and would invite the public to share any photos and knowledge they have. Items can be emailed to lakeantoineparkpartners@gmail.com

Work in the park is done by volunteers as money and time become available. Beach renovations through an accessibility enhancement grant enables everyone to make it to the beach. The lawn and picnic areas have been enhanced. Water for the campground and the free artisan well across from the boat landing have been updated and improved. Camping sites have better access to electricity and a ramp for easy kayak launching has been added. Renovating the bathhouse/concession building near the beach area is on the list for future improvement.

The Lake Antoine Park Partners are working hard to bring this park up to 2022 requirements and community standards so that it remains enjoyable for all ages. September will bring the popular Crafty Flea Market to the park, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 10.

Golden K meets at 10 a.m. Monday. Angela Elliot Johnson will speak about DICSA’S Denim Heart Thrift and Food Pantry. As always, all are invited to join them.