ISHPEMING — It was a decade’s worth of diligent work for a statue almost ten years in the making. All that work culminated with a big unveiling on this rainy day.

Clearly, the rain was no match for the excitement those on hand felt in anticipation of seeing a new statue unveiled. Phone cameras were working in full force and smiles were aplenty on this remarkable occasion — as the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame finally put its shiny new center piece on display.

Hall of Fame Inductee, Bob Salerno, smiled as he took it in, “It was a great idea that somebody had. And here it is right there. I love it. I’m an aerialist. I love jumping. I’m like a bird on skis. So I totally love it.”

Salerno is one of seven Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame inductees from this past year. With that group on hand, the moment was that much more special.