By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

IRON MOUNTAIN — Rain, rain go away, the Golden K picnic for children with special needs is today. City Park pavilion saved the day and was well used Monday as it rained most of the morning. Games, food, and fun fit inside providing comfort and a good time.

This picnic was dedicated in honor of long term members lost this past year. They included Paul Ward, Ellen Roberts, Bill Trudell, Paul Jacobs, Vance Uhazie, Walter Jensen, Orice Walters, Bob Bowman and Bob Tachick.

Golden Kers are strongly committed to these kids and put full effort into making these parties as special as the kids that show up.

While waiting for the grill masters to do magic with hamburgers and hot dogs, many hands prepared other necessities and set up games. As buses unloaded the excitement was delightfully deafening. New to the program this year was Crafters on Central, with Cassandra McMahon bringing her face-painting skills. While she painted, others were busy with bean bag toss, basketball and hunting for nickels in sawdust.

Ray Pilon and daughter Mindy were on stage with delightful music that had young and old dancing around. The Golden K seniors went home a bit tired, sore feet elevated as they leaned back into the recliner with a sigh. That was a great day.

After the activities and lunch, everyone was served by two fine ice cream scoopers from the Ice Cream Barn. Several flavors were available and generously dished out by Cameron O’Connor and Melanie Lawnicki. The buses loaded their precious cargo of students and aides. Goodbyes were shared, clean-up began.

Kendra Trulock and Kathy Arnold from DICSA were appreciated as they pitched in to help. Thanks goes to all Golden K members, spouses, and friends. Participants included Florence, Willis Center, Norway ISD, Norway Elementary and Forest Park schools.

Parents and aides were appreciated for their contribution. The students were polite and authentically happy. Their smiles made the day.

Golden K will next meet at 10 a.m. Monday, June 3, at the First Presbyterian Church fellowship hall with Joe Rizzo from the Dickinson Hospital Marshfield Clinic. All are welcome.