Ski Loons (Fall 2015 Newsletter)

It’s said history has a way of repeating itself. Sometimes, this comes around in very full and fun circles. Via nostalgic postings on the modern phenomenon called Facebook, several photographs and memories have been surfacing which span decades in the lakes area. One post provided a catalyst for comparatively linking the “Ski Antics” water ski club of the 1950’s and the new “Ski Loons” water ski show team founded this past summer.

Dr. Christopher Dens grew up in Wilson Bay and recently moved back to the area with his wife, Mandy.  After participating together in a metropolitan ski club while attending college, they wanted to continue their experience locally. Together with other community members having water ski club experiences and backgrounds,  a fledgling group of modern founders navigated from spring brainstorming sessions all the way to August’s awesome two show performance at Lum Park in Brainerd.

Remarks exchanged on Facebook with Fred Huff, who grew up on his parents’ Bar Harbor Resort in the 50’s era of the “Ski Antics”, resulted in Fred taking time to jot down and share his memories of shows performed back then. Look for Huff’s story on the city website. He writes about the equipment, gear and boats available back then and adds colorful recollections such as: “An unspoken rule (clockwise circle) was the route for pulling skiers.” “There were no life jackets but some people would wear a ski belt which was small and fit around the waist.”

Several East Gull Lake residents have joined and/or support the new ski club, which is open to all aged participants.  Information about “Ski Loons” can be found by visiting their website:  www.skiloons.com or by sending an email to: brainerdskiloons@gmail.com

The very well attended shows at Lum Park showcased a variety of talent, and Fred Huff would be happy to know some segments were presented to the gathered crowd by circling clockwise. 

Linda Engel

History Editor and Ski Loon member