Bill Roberts, Golden K chairperson, with Lennie Walters and Pete Monette of the Kiwanis Ski Club, who spoke on the Sanford Health Marshfield Clinic FIS Continental Cup ski jumping competition this weekend at Pine Mountain in Iron Mountain. (Contributed photo)

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

Sunshine, blue skies, and melting snow were a welcome change from the recent subzero temperatures and wind chill factors. Recent colorful sunsets makes one wonder if was it all a dream? Dream or not, Yoopers relish the the good weather and remain prepared for changes we know are looming in the days ahead.

Spirits were running high for the Golden K seniors on Monday. Not only was there bright sunshine, but the guests speakers were familiar faces. Welcome was sung for Lennie Walters and Peter Monette, who came representing the Kiwanis Ski Club. They brought news of the upcoming Sanford Health Marshfield Clinic FIS Continental Cup ski jumping competition.

Pete brought his personnel collection of historical newspaper articles and a model of the original Pine Mountain Ski Jump. The model is made from the wood of the old scaffold. Seniors had the opportunity to view pictures and stories that filled the Daily News in 1969.

Ski jumping has been part of our rich history for many years. Action pictures of past athletes like Tory Torkle, Walter Bietila, Rudy Maki, Butch Wedin and others brought nostalgic memories for the Golden K members.

Former Michigan Gov. G. Mennen Williams came to many of the Pine Mountain tournaments during his term. Local business reaps the benefit of tourists, shopping, and lodging as we all enjoy an awesome group of jumpers. Athletes from several countries come flying off the hill at great speed and compete to land safely in perfect form. Those on the ground are breathless, witnessing the skill of the jumpers.

Every year the Pine Mountain tournament is held with the combined efforts of the Kiwanis members and local businesses. Amazing volunteers, equipment and untold hours of preparation are needed to get the hill in shape. Everything is done under the scrutiny of ski officials who fine tune the rules and requirements necessary.

Some of the other tasks involve keeping parking lots open, stairs cleared of ice, and accommodating special requests for groups. Things are coordinated with aid of the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Department to make sure everyone follows proper procedure.

It is also necessary to be prepared for unexpected equipment breakdown, weather changes or schedule disruptions.

Kiwanis Ski Club is committed to bring the best ski tournament experience possible to the public. They have been working as time and money allow to complete the elevator project. The elevator is crucial for the World Cup to return here and will be useful for public events on the docket.

If you didn’t get your ski buttons in advance for $30, they will be $40 beginning Friday at the gate. Hoping snow is on the way, the Pine Mountain Ski Hill is groomed to perfection and ready to take on whatever comes in stride. You can be sure of a great weekend with four jumping events planned. “Meet the Skiers” night took place Thursday at the Pine Mountain Golf & Ski Resort.

Look for more information on the event online at https://www.ironmountain.org/pages/2026-fis-continental-cup-at-the-pine-mountain-ski-jump/.

A thought for the day: Ski jumping is like Superman without a cape. Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. All are welcome.