Joanne Lindholm photo Sharon Scholke, left, Golden K chairwoman, introduces Wendy Wender, Stomp the Snow committee member. Wender spoke to the club about the annual fundraising event.

KINGSFORD — Sunshine and bright blue skies. The roar of the lawn mower has replaced the tired snow blower. Who could ask for anything more? The Golden K seniors gathering for the Monday morning meeting ushered the day into perfection.

Chairman Bill Roberts rang the bell and members stood for opening ceremonies. Alyce had the piano warmed up and awaited a cue from music director Lois Outcelt. As the last snowbird to return, Outcelt brought her charm and bright smile to the podium. The singing commenced and life couldn’t get much better.

Guests welcomed for the day included Kathy Arnold from Dickinson-Iron Community Services Agency; Wendy Wender, and Sharon Scholke’s daughter, Suzanne.

Judy Sielaff happily picked up winnings from the 50-50 drawing. The Happy Dollar thoughts reflected spring joy flowing into our lives. Some are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the NFL draft, others are just happy for sunshine and getting together. Sharon Scholke is especially joyful for her great-granddaughter, who will perform in the Ishpeming High School Musical on Saturday.

Scholke introduced a long-time friend Wendy Wender. She and some of her co-workers at the First National Bank & Trust put their thoughts together one day. They developed a winter event that involved families of all ages. They began with an idea of what, where, and how to accomplish this dream. The Snowshoe Stomp event came to life.

As often happens in the community, U.P. residents and businesses became involved. Pine Grove Country Club offered their facility and surrounding area. As the idea began to become a reality, Wender and her crew developed the idea into an event that has proven to excel all expectations.

Planning for their third year has already begun and with two highly successful years under their belt. The Stomp the Snow snowshoe event has been overwhelmingly received by the public.

People come from near and far. Volunteers help with parking, organizing, and general greeting. The event is open to all ages. Families spend a day on one of three trails that are well marked.

Some enjoy social time inside the building and children are busy in an inside play area. Ample food and beverages are available. Local businesses join in to sponsor this event.

The Snowshoe Stomp is a non-profit organization and donates substantial amounts of money back into the community.

Trails are illuminated by lanterns. Lanterns are available for purchase and can be designated in memory of someone you honor. RC ReBuilders fabricated and donated stands for the lanterns to keep them above the snow.

As ideas and plans evolve, this organization strives to keep the event family friendly and exciting. It is fun for all with something new each year. As summer approaches with outdoor activities waiting to be enjoyed, remember that a great experience will be waiting next winter in the snow.

Since this Monday was designated “Earth Day,” Bill Robert’s “Thought for the Day” was a quote from Bill Nye. “To leave this world a better place than when you found it, you may have to pick up someone else’s trash.”

Golden K will meet Monday with guest speaker Denise Formolo. The meeting begins at 10 a.m. with coffee and doughnuts waiting. Everyone is welcome.