Ben Determan photo THE Kingsford Middle School chorus performed at the Monday Golden K meeting. From left, front row, are Paige Briseno, Nevaeh Butterfield, Kyleena Jacques, Julia Damp, Olivia Oliver, Carolyn Cudnohufsky, Sidney Wicklund, Sunnie Hensley, Alex Michaeu and Jasmine Dupuis; in back are Allison Allard, Abigail Miller, Taylor Tersio-Headtke, Emily Hoh, James Cain, Nick Luker, Cassie Pace, Kylie Ecker, Braden Antilla, Isabella Burke and Mackenzie Taylor. The director/pianist is Jeremiah Garrigues-Cortel.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — How do you turn a dreary, chilly Monday into a bright, warm, friendly and busy morning? Join the Golden K at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford.

With the Kingsford Middle School chorus coming, there was a lot of scurrying around. Setting up for extra young people was one thing, but to everyone’s delight and surprise — parents, grandparents and friends began to arrive, stretching the coffee, milk and doughnuts to their max. The fellowship hall was filled, awaiting the arrival of the students.

Soon the young people began filing in, bringing along their equipment, and finding their positions. Director Jeremiah Garrigues-Cortel then sat at the piano and the music began.

About 20 students raised their voices to a variety of songs. Their first number, “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, rang through the room. “Lost Boy” by Ruth B, was sung with intense feeling by Cassie Parc, solo. Followed with “The Hanging Tree” by Collins, Fraites and Schultz; “Stay” by Rihanna, with soloists Mackenzie Taylor and Isabelle Burke; then ending their repertoire with “Hakuna Matata” by Elton John and Tim Rice. Soloists for that number were Alex Micheau with Paige Briseno.

A program ending too soon was enthusiastically appreciated by all. These students give their time for practice early in the mornings, some dividing practice time with band. Thanks to Kingsford Middle School director and students for bringing their excitement and music to the Golden K.

Happy Birthday to Bob Bowman on Dec. 1 and anniversary wishes to Al and LaVerne Calcari.

Bill Roberts reminded members to get their reservations in to Don Pedo for the members’ Christmas party Dec. 10.

With December comes many events and the calendar fills quickly.

Golden Kers will host the special needs children’s Christmas party Dec. 17.

Debbie Floriano made an appeal for bell ringers for the Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign. She has many empty days she would like to fill and many people at this meeting signed up. These monies go to the Salvation Army, which in turn go back to the community to help those with needs.

The Golden Throats will sing Wednesday at Victorian Pines in Iron Mountain.

Monday’s general meeting will have Orice Walters as program chairperson. She will present Kallie Weecks, a Kingsford High School junior who traveled to Italy with the exchange program.

All are welcome to join the Golden K any Monday.