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Golden K Club makes plans for annual party for special needs children

3 min read
Golden K, a local volunteer organization for almost 50 years, meets weekly on Monday mornings in the First Presbyterian Church Hall on Hamilton Avenue in Kingsford. One of the group’s emphasis over the years has been hosting parties and picnics for the youth with special needs and their aids from area schools, including Dickinson and Iron County Intermediate School District and in Wisconsin. This year’s event has been set for Sept. 13 at City Park in Iron Mountain. The club’s annual Peanut Fundraiser is planned Friday, Sept. 3, at several local stores. The money raised goes to fund local charities, as well as assist with special events and picnics. Golden K Club board members seated, from left, are Vance Uhazie, Lois Outcelt, August Chairwoman Sharon Scholke, Bill Roberts, Golden K Treasurer Kirk Olson, Mary Jane Nelson, Sue Proudfit and Ben Determan; standing are Orice Walters, John Aune and Golden K Secretary Joan Jouppi. Not shown is Gilbert Engel. Each of the 12 board members rotate as chairperson of the month.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD -- Looking out over my flower garden, I see the phlox beginning to open -- the last flower group to bloom. Time has been flying by so fast, which certainly is a change from last year. Maybe it's me, but the slower pace of life felt better.

Monday morning, ready or not, it's time for Golden K.

With no particular program on the docket, the seniors find a way to use their time wisely. They are not just about coffee and donuts. With Sharon Scholke in the chairman seat, this group got busy planning upcoming events. As always, the pledge to the flag was said, followed by the singing of "God Bless America" -- focusing on things that really matter.

With Alyce Derwinski on the piano and Al Calcari directing, the members were belting out "Smiles," "Tea for Two" and "This Land is Your Land" giving way to more enthusiasm as Joe Santi won the 50-50 drawing.

Bill Roberts shared his great time with son and grandson at the EAA Fly-In. Nothing seems to get in the way of these seniors --when they want to go, they go.

Making plans for the special needs children picnic was top priority. The date of Sept. 13 is set, at City Park, along with the food and games organized.

They are still holding out hope for a replacement of the horse and buggy ride the kids enjoy so much. It will be a great day for both Golden K members and the kids. Be ready for a 9 a.m. start to a fun-filled day.

The Golden K has also planned a fundraiser on Sept. 3, which is the only one they conduct.

Golden K members have tables set up with their peanuts, ready with their smiles and warm greetings to all who stop by with a donation or just to say hello. The peanut fundraiser has been graciously supported by the community.

They use the funds raised to donate back to local charities. They also fund a scholarship to a local student.

Golden K members are volunteers serving in many directions within the community, as they work with DICSA and RSVP, turning in their volunteer hours that help those organizations provide programs for all ages. Sometimes filling the needs of individuals and some fun programs keep the communities connected.

The Golden K meeting at 10 a.m. Monday will feature Beth Bray of the Imagination Factory Children's Museum. All are welcome to attend at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford each week.

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