Gordon “Gene” Henry, a new Golden K member is welcomed to Monday meeting along with guest speaker Karen Klenke.

By Kathy Arnold

RSVP Director

DICSA

KINGSFORD — The sun was shining as the Golden K members gathered on Monday morning. The day began with Alyce Derwinski tickling the ivories as the Golden Kers warmed up their voices with Al Calcari directing.

One song being especially appropriate, “You are My Sunshine,” was the most important, as this song is meant for everyone gathered at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford.

The welcome song was presented for the guests, Gordon Henry, Kathy Arnold, RSVP Director and Karen Klenke, guest speaker. Happy Birthday was sung for Henry London, who will be celebrating his 96th birthday on Aug. 3.

Chairman Ben Determan introduced guest speaker, Karen Klenke of Niagara. She shared with the group that her husband, Jeff brought her to the area when she was pregnant with their first child. Karen and her husband settled in Niagara, Wis., with her husband teaching at the Niagara School system.

After being forced into retirement due to his eye sight, a new career was needed. At that time, the owner of the Niagara area paper was looking to get out of the business and gave the paper — free of charge — over to the Klenkes. It was decided by Karen’s husband that he would write the articles, and much to Karen’s surprise, she would now be the photographer for the paper. Without any knowledge of photography, she jumped into her new position, and her philosophy is “Bloom where you are planted.” This was the beginning of Karen’s profession in photography.

She found herself seeking out all of the events happening in her area. There were photo opportunities all around.

From there Karen opened her own studio, Karen’s Candids, which later became Karen’s Studio. Over the years she has photographed many individuals, families and scenery.

She attributes her success to “luck,” her health, brain, and her camera. She continues photography to this day, and continues to work with the Florence Mining News, sharing her talent with them.

She also keeps busy with the Niagara Area Historical Society. Her most recent interest is doing filmed interviews for the museum. Feel free to stop by the museum, at 1364 River St., Niagara, during regular hours.

The Golden K’s next meeting will be on Monday. All are welcome to join the group, singing and learning what goes on in our community.

The Golden Throats will sing Wednesday at ManorCare in Kingsford.