Basanese speaker at Golden K meeting
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By JOAN JOUPPI
For The Daily News
KINGSFORD -- A blustery day greeted the Golden K on Monday morning. It was obvious that the seniors were more than ready for this meeting deferring the weather was less important.
Chairman Ben Determan rang the bell and the group enthusiastically responded. Pianist Alyce Derwinski was joined by two singers from the Dickinson County Community Chorus. Margie and Ron Yadro came to help lead the singing. Margie was familiar with the first song, "When The Saints Go Marching In" and she and Ron added some welcomed harmony that resounded throughout the hall. Being more familiar with the old tunes, Bill Roberts took over "Sentimental Journey'" and "Somebody Else is Taking My Place." There may have been a generation gap fogging awareness of the really old songs.
Other guests for the day included Anthony Adams and Michigan State Trooper Geno Basanese. Adams blended his musical talent with the Golden K seniors as he also sings with the Dickinson County Community Chorus. Basanese was the guest speaker for the meeting.
Joe Santi happily won the 50-50 drawing. He is proud of his grandson who is going through training to become a U.S. Marshall. Other Happy Dollars thoughts included Golden K members who enjoyed time with family. Armchair football fans seemed very quiet this week.
Guest speaker Geno Basanese is a familiar face at the Golden K. His job keeps him traveling all over Upper and Lower Michigan. His roles as father, citizen, and trooper make him a vital connection to the community. Keeping the public informed on issues that are troublesome -- especially for older residents -- has brought basanese to the Golden K many times.
We all frown at the word snow, but what does the word scam do for you? Most of us have some type of intrusions daily. It can take the form of a gentle voice, a high pressure salesman, an overly friendly "How are you today" greeting, or even a scare tactic. Then there's the one who sounds realistic and just needs to verify your account, or a missing digit from your Social Security number. Phone numbers that appear local may not be. There is a long list of ways to get information from someone without them realizing until it's too late. Identity Theft tops the list of scams.
Types of fraud are endless and new ones come along every day. Your best protection is "if it sounds too good to be true -- it probably isn't." It is wise to check your statements every month, and request your credit record regularly. Make sure all charges are yours. Check and verify by calling the organization offering you gift cards, money or things you have won.
If you think you owe money somewhere, call that person or place to find out first hand. Never agree over the phone, computer, facebook, tablet or whichever device. Ask questions and check your accounts often. Contact the police if you feel the call may have been a scam. The State Police Post handles requests from people who feel they may have given information to the wrong person. They will help guide you through the necessary process to get back on track.
Basanese gave the group many examples of scam tactics. He warns everyone to be careful using the Internet. Many sites are phony yet look like a legitimate business. They get into your computer once you click on their link. Viruses can be hidden in messages.
It is practically impossible to recover money sent. It usually goes to foreign countries and is difficult to track. Cyber security is a huge concern. It can completely shut down a good company. It takes days to track. Before you click, check and re-check the request. Do your own investigating. Call the place of business in question and get your answers first hand. Scammers have no limits on getting your money. Be extra cautious and be sure it goes where you want.
The Golden K will meet Monday at the First Presbyterian Church fellowship hall in Kingsford. Anyone interested in singing is asked to be at the hall by 9:30 a.m. The general meeting will take place at 10 a.m. with Laurie LaFlave speaking about hearing aids. The program starts at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome.