Joanne Lindholm photo From left, are Brett Calcari, Golden K chairperson, with speakers Denise and Bud Delano of the Moving Mountains Adaptive Program.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — What a summer. Early rains have given way to a bit of heat and humidity. July and all of its events passed quickly. August has appeared with more adventures awaiting. I heard some geese honking together thinking about assembling for the south. Not yet! There’s still more summer to enjoy. The weather has quieted down into the normal Yooper comfort zone giving us the opportunity to enjoy a few more events and camping trips. It has been a busy time filled with community happenings, picnics, concerts and parties of all kinds. Wonderful memories that will sustain us through the winter and whatever awaits.

The Golden K seniors set aside Monday morning each week and are eager to share weekend activity stories with one another. They rarely miss a family party, graduation, camp time, or community event. It’s fun to exchange weekend excursions and stories with friends.

August chairman Brett Calcari deftly wielded the gavel and brought the meeting to order on time. Alyce Derwinski on piano handed the musical repertoire to Lois Outcelt, who in turn prepared the group for singing the oldies.

Music filled the great hall and the meeting was off to an arousing start. Denise and Bud Delano were the days welcomed guests. Happy Birthday went to Steve Mulka, and Kirk Olson cheerfully collected the 50-50 winnings.

Bud and Denise Delano have developed a unique skiing experience for people with special needs in the area. Their organization is called Moving Mountains.

As Alpine ski enthusiasts, they developed an adaptive ski program than is about skiing and much more. They facilitate opportunities for those affected by cognitive and/or physical disabilities to enjoy skiing.

They move mountains by providing an environment to develop confidence and skills. They stimulate confidence and cooperation in people who have “mountains of health issues” that may have held them back from coming down a mountain on a ski or snowboard. They are a couple dedicated to helping every individual reach their full potential.

Moving Mountains is run entirely by volunteers. Trained instructors enable students to gain a sense of freedom and skill development they may not realize they have. Instructors are trained by Professional Ski Instructors of America — PSKIA. Volunteers of all ages are available to aid each skier. Lessons are free for students.

The organization is a non-profit 501(c)(3) based in Iron Mountain. They are dependent on funding from donors and an annual golf outing. A special thank you goes to Pine Mountain Resort. They work closely with the group and provide many of the services needed for programs. Bud and Denise are also grateful for the entire community that joins in providing support. Volunteers and participants come from local and outlying areas. All ages are welcome. Those with cognitive and/or physical disabilities are encouraged to achieve their highest personal level of independence. This brings out wonder, surprise and smiles of pure joy at accomplishments.

Their program season runs from early January through mid-March. Registration information can be found by e-mail or through their web site. Physical and mentally challenged individuals can experience skiing, snowboarding, and adaptive stand-up or bi-skiing. Long-term friendships are made as volunteers, instructors, students and families enjoy skiing together.

Their logo “Come ski with us” tells one Denise, Bud and their crew are on Life’s Mountain with you.

For more information, email Info@movingmountainsap.org or go to www.movingmountainsp.org.

Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. All are invited to come share a cup of coffee and a story or two.