Monday's Golden K guest speaker Johnny Johnson of KAMO, or Kids and Mentors Outdoors, with Judy Sielaff, Golden K chairperson.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

Monday morning for the Golden K seniors is a special time. Getting together and sharing their week-end activities brings lively conversation into the day.

As chairperson Judy Sielaff rings the bell for the opening ceremonies, the club members rise to the occasion. Alyce Derwinski on piano hands her list of songs over to able assistant Richard Ochoa. Leading the singing, Richard takes the group on a “Sentimental Journey,” musically traveling “Side By Side,” bringing memories of what “Seems Like Old Times.” Welcome was sung for guest speaker John Johnson, who also luckily won the 50/50 drawing. Happy Dollars welcomed Candy Buchcuski back and Kathy Jo Anderson was grateful for a fun time at a recent bowling tournament.

Johnson presented information on a wonderful program designed to help children discover the outdoors. It’s called KAMO, or Kids And Mentors Outdoors. It is a non-profit Outdoor Adventure program envisioned by Mark Walters of Necedah, Wis. Walters is a syndicated adventure columnist writer who saw a need for an organization where certified adults are able to take children on outdoor activities. Their mission is to provide children and their families the opportunity to experience a variety of free outdoor activities which can lead to a deeper appreciation of nature.

All children have dreams. This program opens doors to those who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience what the outdoors has to offer. Year-round programs include fishing, hiking, camping, outdoor art, photography, kayaking, wildlife viewing, trap shooting, hunting and more. Have you ever played putt-putt golf on the ice? Well it’s possible. Equipment, gear and materials needed are provided for all programs.

Johnson is an enthusiastic individual who is full of energy and excited to be a part of this program. He is the bridge that connects local businesses and donors to landowners and sponsors, and finally to the families and kids.

In addition, he steps up to be the spokesperson and public relations face in the media and in person. Having worked 35 years in forestry, he has built a relationship with land owners and truckers. He has a deep respect for the outdoors and is thrilled to share that with the young.

New mentors are welcome and additional information is available on KAMO website at kamokids.org.

There are KAMO chapters throughout the Midwest states and hopes of more developing more in the future. Volunteer mentors work with the children and parents. KAMO members and volunteers are screened and insured to provide a safe environment for the kids. All necessary equipment is supplied through donations from local companies and patrons. Raffles are held at some of the events and volunteers are welcomed. As Johnson says, “Let’s keep doing good things.”

Most KAMO events are open to the public. They are having an Ice Fishing Derby from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. today at Lake Emily in Florence, Wis. Kids ages 5 to 15 can receive lunch and participate in the event. It’s your chance to check out KAMO and be a part of a great day outdoors. Don’t forget to bring the kids.

Johnson can be reached for questions at 715-548-1112.

Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford, with guest speaker Lennie Walters from the Kiwanis Ski Club. Come hear the latest news on the ski tournament that starts Friday. All are welcome.