Karen Blackhall of Norway accomplished her goal Sunday of climbing all 500 steps on the Pine Mountain Ski Hill, with the stroke survivor taking only an hour to reach the top. Blackhall, who had been a National Ski Patrol member until her stroke in January 2020, used the challenge to take pledges and donations for the Kiwanis Ski Club toward the new $3.8 million ski jump tower. Here, Blackhall reaches the final steps with her husband, Steve, and son Eric Hicks. (Submitted photo)

Bouquet: I would like to say a big thank you to all the people and businesses that made a pledge on my Pine Mountain step climb fundraiser. Because of all of you, I was able to raise more than $6,000 for Kiwanis Ski Club to help cover the expenses of the new ski jump tower.

I want to also thank all my family and friends who came to support and cheer me on. It touched my heart.

I reached my goal — making it to the top, all 500 steps.

I am so proud to be part of this wonderful community I live in.