Ben Determan, Golden K Chairman introduces guest speaker at the Monday morning meeting, Bill Cummings, historian with the Menominee Range Historical Museum.

KINGSFORD — It has become abundantly clear — fall is here. The deer in the neighborhood are sporting their winter coats, the leaves are turning colors and there has been sightings of white coverings on the lawn. Ready or not, furnaces kicked on leaving no doubt that summer has faded into the past.

Changes are not new to the seniors at the Golden K. They just put on an extra jacket and tackle whatever the day may bring.

Ben Determan, as chairman for October, eagerly commenced meeting. Close behind was Alyce Derwinski, got the piano in place while Bill Roberts lead the singing. After the usual opening, the club sang “Music, Music, Music,” “Pretty Baby,” “Side By Side,” and “Smiles.” Sunshine and happy songs are a great start to any Monday morning.

Myrna Ward and Bill Cummings were welcome as guests. Happy Birthday wishes went to Sarah Gospodarek on Oct. 5 and her husband Leon was the lucky winner of the 50-50 drawing. Happy Dollars reflected wonderful times and memories with family and friends.

The Golden K sang “Auld Lang Syne” in memory of delightful Golden K member Agatha Cavaiani. At 94, she brought information and humor to the meetings. She was very much involved in her community affairs.

Chairman Determan gave his thought for the day, which was reflected for all Golden K members: Thoughts and prayers for those affected in so many ways by the Hurricane Ian.

Sue Proudfit introduced guest speaker Bill Cummings is no stranger to most Golden K seniors. He is an avid historian and is excited about the new museum and the additional artifacts and displays in the two other museum buildings — one housing the Cornish Pump and one with World War II Glider and Military, adding a logging and lumbering exhibit in 2021.

In June of 1958, a group of 40 residents formed the Dickinson County Historical Society. At that time they used two rooms — rent free — in the court house basement to actively begin their community project. Citizens interested in collecting and preserving records and artifacts established the Menominee Range Historical Museum. The journey from the basement to Carnegie Public Library building to its present site on Kent Street has been a long arduous task and completed by a community of individuals and business dedicated to a project. It has drawn tourism from many out-lying areas, as well as local residents. Donations of time, expertise and equipment came from numerous sources.

New exhibits and improvements are on going.

The museums are funded only through admission fees, gift shop sales, memberships, private donations, bequests and occasional grants.

A sizable donation enabled the Foundation to work on the renovation project of the Dry Museum building.

The building was restored from inside to outside. Heating, lights, ventilation, gas piping, water, sewer, landscaping, all other electrical needs, insulation, footings and windows are a few of the projects facing volunteers and businesses during the renovation.

The building now houses a special room for artifacts and newspapers and a year round office. More exhibit areas are planned.

The area is barrier free and has become a central tourist “must see.” The museum board members encourages all ages to come and see the history of makes Iron Mountain unique.

Cummings has compiled a list of Menominee Range memories and stories, which can be found at the Dickinson County Library website at dcl-lib.org. There’s a treasure trove of information available.

Cummings and the library staff can assist with their knowledge concerning historical events in Iron Mountain. He walked the club through a chronological story of the museums’ transformation. It was an important historical era for this community. Exhibits continue to improve and evolve.

New ideas are encouraged and visitors are encouraged to reflect on the past as they wander through the buildings.

More information on the museums hours and admission can be found on their website at https://menomineemuseum.com.

The Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church fellowship hall in Kingsford. All are welcome.