×

Golden K ponders ‘what if?’

KINGSFORD — The Golden K meeting began as usual with Ben Determan serving as chairman.

Alyce Derwinski was ready to begin playing the piano and noticed her director, Al Calcari, was nowhere to be seen. With a quick search he was found and got right to work leading the group singing.

The songs are “oldies” to be sure and some of these seniors remember them and some do not. However, with Alyce playing and Al directing, how could anything go wrong? If it sounds relatively close, all are satisfied and happy to be sharing this time together.

Happiness spread around to Jim Verrette as he collected his 50-50 winnings. Kirk Olson, treasurer, handed out a breakdown of the recent peanut fundraiser, happy to announce its success. Many thanks to all GK members who volunteered to man the stations.

The Golden K organization especially thanks the support received from residents and visitors from the surrounding areas.

Businesses that donated included: Jacobs Funeral Home, ERA Chevrolet, First National Bank of Iron Mountain-Kingsford, Erickson-Rochon and Nash Funeral Home, Bloom Wholesale, Blagec Brothers, CCI Systems, Edwards Automotive, La Faive Oil, Northern State Bank of Norway, Fleury, Singler and Company and First Bank.

All of these monies enable the Golden K to give back through donating to local charities, putting on parties for the special needs children and providing a scholarship to local students. These organizations generously give and remind us all of the uniqueness of the Dickinson County area and the people who live here. Thank you all.

With the representatives for the scheduled program unable to make the meeting, Chairman Ben Determan presented a question before the group — “what if?” After a few puzzled looks, Determan explained, what if there is no program — is there anything the group would like to talk about. It did not take this group long to speak up. Members are happy to be part of an organization that reaches out to all corners of the communities. Always wanting to be kept abreast of what’s happening and how can they be involved. Speakers give of their precious time to share news of their company, what’s new and what’s changing in the area. Connecting with the education system by bringing students into the meetings. Keeping up on current affairs within the communities. Law enforcement keeps the group up-to-date on scams to be wary of and local city representatives inform of the workings of the government close to home.

The Golden K was started in 1976. A handwritten sheet states a small group of retired seniors first met at the Kresge’s lunch counter for coffee and rolls. Tired of just getting together they were introduced to the Kiwanis International off shoot organization for seniors called the Golden K. With the leadership of Don Jacobs, the club was formed. This note is unsigned but tells of the early beginnings. Every member was involved in one or more of the club activities and had a choice of which committee they wished to served on.

Much remains the same today. Coffee and rolls are still served. Members join committees and everyone finds a place to fit in. Sharing happenings of weekend adventures — family doings or sports news, whatever the topic there is a time of visiting.

Some participate in the weekly singing at the various nursing homes, some assist with bingo.

The most satisfying time for all are the parties for the special needs children. Everyone participates and goes home with a warm gratifying feeling. Members’ ages go all the way to 96 at present.

Active in volunteering where ever they can — we are supported by the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, or RSVP, and the Dickinson-Iron Community Services Agency. Volunteer hours are registered and they in turn help these organizations with state funding. The First Presbyterian Church rents their fellowship hall giving the G K a large place to hold meetings and parties. Meetings are open to anyone. Always on Monday mornings unless weather decides differently and /or a holiday falls on Monday.

Quoting Ben, “What if?” What if you visited one morning? You will be welcomed.

The Golden K meeting Monday will have Dolly Cook speaking on voting changes, how to read the ballot and proposals. If you have questions, this will be the time to get answers. The Golden Throats will sing Wednesday at Evergreen.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today