In each issue of the Bulletin, we will turn the spotlight on one of our nine Regional programs. These regional groups were established by people who were inspired to recreate their own SFL experiences in a more local and intimate setting. It is our hope that you will enjoy their stories, and that you will support them in their efforts.
In this issue, we travel to Michigan to salute the Michigan Regional Ski for Light.
It is one of the coldest crispest weekends of the year; the snow sparkles like diamonds; your skis glide along perfectly-groomed trails, and your heart is warmed by all your friends around you – you would likely be part of the Michigan Ski for Light event, held on the third weekend of January every year. The event includes a Friday-night bonfire, the Saturday night talent show and dance, plenty of good food and camaraderie; but for six-year guide Ann Keith, the highlight is the skiing. Participants ski two days in what Keith describes as a pristine part of the Northern Michigan woods in Roscomon, Michigan. Meals and lodging are at a nearby conference center, and all day long, the Roscomon Lions Club shuttles skiers back and forth, sometimes by bus, and sometimes, by hay wagon. The event concludes on Sunday with a race/rally, followed by a song written especially for the Michigan regional.
The idea for the Michigan regional began in 1978, when a few people, including members of the Sons of Norway, began teaching cross country skiing to students from the Michigan School for the Blind. But the actual program called Michigan Regional Ski for Light began in earnest in 1981, and has continued to grow ever since. The program now welcomes approximately 50 skiers each year, including some with mental disabilities. The focus of this regional is on recreational skiing; skier, Cheryl Wade says while she prefers endurance skiing, others are happy just to ski around the parking lot.
But everyone benefits from the ritual aspect of this regional. According to Wade: "It is one of those things that is as predictable as your favorite kind of pie!" And, she ads: "There is a real kind of joy in that."
The Michigan Regional is especially eager to recruit more people who have never skied before, and like most of the regionals, is now interested in bringing in new blood and new ideas. And, according to skier, Cheryl Wade, this regional will stop at nothing to get skiers to the weekend.
Many who take part in the regional also participate in Kayak for Light, sponsored by the West Michigan Coastal Kayakers Association; they say it helps keep friendship going year-round.
For more information about the Michigan regional, please visit their website at www.msfl.org.