Joanne Lindholm photo Bill Roberts, Golden K chairman, introduces Lennie Walters, representing Kiwanis Ski Club. Walters spoke at the meeting about the Kiwanis Ski Club and upcoming ski jumping competition.

KINGSFORD — With the Pine Mountain Ski Tournaments in full swing, we are reminded of the saying “A bad day on the slopes is better than a good day at work.” This event is paramount to our community in terms of economy, camaraderie, and pride.

Bill Roberts rang the bell, summoning members to their feet. Alyce Derwinski led on the piano as everyone crooned to “Somebody Else is Taking My Place,” “This Land is Your Land,” and “You Are My Sunshine.”

The Welcome Song was sung for guests Lennie Walters, Mickey Khoury, Kathy and Larry Bourdeau and Chris Beaudry.

Golden K member Bill Trudell passed away last week. Members sang “Auld Lang Syne” in his memory.

There were no birthdays or anniversaries this week. Sick call identified members who are experiencing health problems and everyone was asked to remember them in prayer.

Thoughts for the day were read by Bill Roberts. Abraham Lincoln said “My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God’s side for God is always right.” George Washington said “Happiness and moral duty are inseparably connected.”

Pot of Gold winner was Sharon Scholke. Two ski tournament buttons were donated by Lennie Walters. The winners of the buttons were Judy Sielaff and Sharon Scholke.

Gary Proudfit read the Happy Dollar messages. Although she acknowledges that we need snow, Sarah Gospodarek likes our weather this winter. Kathy Jo Anderson and Sandy Soltis were happy to see new and old faces on this sunny Monday. Sue Proudfit was proud to announce another great grandson’s birth, and Kathy Bourdeau was happy to be at the meeting.

Roberts introduced Lennie Walters of the Kiwanis Ski Club, who provided information on the FIS Continental Cup at Giant Pine Mountain. Walters has been involved with the ski club since 1995.

At this year’s Pine Mountain Ski Tournament, they will welcome 39 athletes from nine countries: Austria, Slovenia, Kazakhstan, Poland, Norway, Switzerland, Slovakia, Germany and the U.S. The top eight jumpers will receive cash prizes that are funded by the ski club. The current hill record is 457 feet.

The club raises funds through button sales — $30 presale or $40 at the gate. Over the past weekend, approximately 40 volunteers turned out to finish up with hill preparations. Many volunteers have been working for weeks to get everything ready and to FIS specifications.

Marshfield Clinic is the 2024 FIS Continental Cup Title Sponsor. On Thursday, “Meet the Skiers” was open to the public at the Pine Mountain Lodge. On Friday evening, the skiers were invited into community members’ homes for dinner and fellowship. Three tournaments are scheduled. The opening ceremony is scheduled for 1 p.m. today.

Judges for the tournament are from various countries in Europe. They will be judging on distance and form/style.

Walters encouraged everyone to attend any or all of the events. Roberts thanked Walters for a very interesting presentation on the FIS Continental Cup.

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