From left, Dan Pedo, Jeane Shaltz, Jim Benzie. Shaltz spoke to the Golden K Club about the local housing commissions.

IRON MOUNTAIN — They — being professionals who have studied this sort of behavior — have said, a culture needs a structured, organized rather routine schedule, to maintain composure, stay focus on important issues and be prepared for changes. This however, doesn’t apply to seniors — at least not the Golden K seniors.

After a week out of their usual Monday meeting, having enjoyed a social time for themselves, a catered picnic lunch and music entertainment from Ray Pilon, this group met as usual at the First Presbyterian Church on Monday morning and that is where the “usual” ended.

Alyce Derwinski sat down at the piano with Al Calcari at her side, microphone in hand calling out the page numbers for songs. The Golden Kers began to settle into their normal routine. However it was not to be, as John Corson read a poem that had everyone holding their sides. Then Jeanne Polkinghorne added another story with Al Calcari coming up with a funny tidbit of his own. Obviously this group was still in the picnic party mode.

Bringing everyone down to a reasonable quieter mode was Daniel Pedo with his thought for the day, “Pay It Forward — Do something nice today for a stranger.” Wishes go to Henry London on his birthday, Aug. 3. Congratulations to Ron Jouppi, winning the 50-50.

Happy Dollars from GK members Dorleen and Vance Uhazie celebrated their anniversary at Mackinaw Island with family and Shirley Winters took her mom to Texas for a week. Sue Proudfit very happy to receive a great report on her third year follow-up at Mayo. Golden K was happy to have Jeanne Shaltz as guest speaker.

Dan Pedo introduced Shaltz, who is the executive director for the Iron Mountain-Kingsford Housing Commissions. She holds a master of public health degree and has worked with the housing commission, locally for many years.

She works with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development subsidy money, as well as bonds and has a staff of five. Working with the combined commissions of Iron Mountain and Kingsford she oversees all buildings, houses and tenants in both cities. There are specific policies to be implemented and she makes sure rules are followed for the safety and security for all concerned.

There are offices located at Washington Court, Hulst Manor and Kingsford, with the main office at 401 East D St. in Iron Mountain. Potential tenants have forms to fill out, meet eligibility requirements and will have a background check done before being assigned to any apartment or home. Units have from one bedroom to four depending on location. Rent is on individuals income and tenants can have “Meals on Wheels” and caregivers come to their residence.

There are social events planned periodically. Tenants are treated equally, fairly and their questions are answered and suggestions for improvements are welcomed. Laundry facilities are on the property. Golden Ker Jim Benzie works on maintenance and grounds keeping at one of these facilities.

A large percentage of cliental are the elderly, however there are families, single parents, others who have need to down size and live alone. Shaltz and her staff will gladly answer all questions and guide interested parties in the direction that suits their needs best. There is much more information to be gleamed from Shaltz and her staff for those who have a need. Visit anyone of their offices during business hours and they will help you with forms and information.

Golden Throats sing at Victorian Pines on Wednesday.

Golden K members take note — the next meeting will be a field trip to the Niagara Historical Museum. Those interested meet at the parking lot of the First Presbyterian Church at 9:30 a.m. Monday. They will form car pools and proceed to the museum for tour and meeting. Coffee and doughnuts will be waiting.