From left are Andrew Finkle, fundraising project manager; Golden K chairperson Lois Outcelt; Josh Isaac, Dickinson Conservation District forester. They spoke at the Golden K meeting on Monday.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — A refreshing rain welcomed the Golden K seniors on Monday. Happily sharing their weekend adventures, the members gathered around tables filled with warm coffee and delicious doughnuts.

Chairperson Lois Outcelt rang the bell getting the group to their feet for ceremonies. Alyce Derwinski on piano had readied patriotic songs in anticipation of the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. “America the Beautiful,” “My Country ‘Tis of Thee,” “Yankee Doodle,” and an American classic “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” were sung patriotically.

“Welcome” was sung for the guest speakers Josh Isaac and Andrew Finkel. Also welcomed today were Judy Sielaff’s grandchildren, Jack and Lucy Krznarich. Birthday wishes were sung for Gilbert Engel and Ben and Ginny Determan, all celebrating this week. Happy Dollars donated by Maxine Vaccarello celebrated a new grandson and her grandaughter’s graduation from medical school. Happy Dollars were also shared for the young guests, possible future members to the group. The 50-50 drawing was received by Sarah Gospodarek. “Do what you can” was the thought for the day.

Josh Isaac, district forester for the Dickinson Conservation District, which includes Dickinson and Menominee counties, was the guest speaker. The organization is created to serve as steward of water and soil resources.

They have professionals available to assist private landowners with conservation needs. This can take the form of forestry and water protection, improving wildlife habitat, and identifying invasive species. Their office is on Hooper Street in Kingsford and they have a website with more information.

The presentation began with a video narrated by leading mycologist Paul Stamets called “Six Ways Mushrooms Can Save the World.” The underground root-like system of mushrooms is know as the mycelium network. It is the earth’s natural internet, as it carries information between the mycelium and surrounding plants. These bodies of fungal threads are among the largest organisms on earth. A single organism can cover an area of several square miles.

The Armillaria Bulbosa fungus found in Crystal Falls covers 38 acres beneath Iron County forest. Commonly called the “honey mushroom,” recent dating has estimated its age at approximately 2,500 years. The small caps we find sprouting through the ground are just the fruit of these giant organisms.

Cleaning polluted soil, replacing insecticides and even treating viruses such as smallpox and flu are some of the ways mycelium serve the planet. Fungi are naturally bacteria resistant and medicines can sometimes be made from them. Birch trees in the area support the chaga mushroom, which is sold worldwide for its powerful antioxidant properties. Mushrooms facilitate the cycle of life returning forest debris back into soil. This unseen wonder works 24/7 to support the ecosystem we all enjoy.

Andrew Finkle, who is fundraiser project manager for the Dickinson County district, finished up the presentation. The district operates from grants awarded, annual tree sales and donations from generous community members.

Finkle brought a stump infused with shiitake mushrooms to show and offer for sale to the group. Just add shade and water and you can receive bountiful, edible mushrooms for several years.

Golden K will skip the July 4 week and meet again on July 10. All are welcome for the meeting at 10 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford.