Joan Lindholm photo DICKINSON COUNTY CANCER Unit Loan Closet President Diane Schabo and Closet Board Member Viola Axberg presented a program to Golden K members Aug. 28 on the services and resources they offer in the area. Shown with Schabo and Axberg is Golden K Chair Sharon Scholke.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — Has everyone noticed the subtle hints of a change in season? Leaves are showing colors, and birds are flocking together. Night temperatures lead one to believe that this may be the last week of lawn mowing. As Golden K seniors prepared for their usual Monday morning routine Aug. 28, a light sweater is prudent before going out.

Chair Sharon Scholke took control of the meeting with a ring the bell. Similar to going to school, as the bell rings everyone heads to their seats. Scholke is retired from the school system and some of those teacher qualities still shine through. Alyce Derwinski takes her cue and begins to make the piano hum as Lois Outcelt leads the singing. These three ladies worked seamlessly together to keep this class of seniors under control.

Diane Schabo and Viola Axberg were welcomed as guests. Happy Birthday went to Sharon Scholke, who turned 94 on Aug. 28, and Carol Olson for Aug. 29. Happy Anniversary goes to Leon and Sarah Gospodarek for their Aug. 30 celebration. Dorleen Uhazie gathered winnings from the 50-50 drawing. Happy dollars reflected wonderful weekend festivities with family.

Kirk Olson reminded Golden Kers to put on their yellow shirts and best smiles for Sept. 1. The group conducted their first-annual fundraiser at several locations within Iron Mountain, Norway and Niagara, Wis.

Donations received enable the Golden K to give back to local charities and fund scholarships for local students. The Upper Peninsula may not be the biggest dot on the map, but it does have the largest heartfelt support system. Organizations, fundraisers, and neighbors joyfully pitch in to help where needed.

Diane Schabo and her co-worker donate time at the Dickinson County Cancer Unit Loan Closet. Along with other volunteers, they orchestrate this service to meet the needs of those dealing with health issues. Cancer patients are their principal clients, although the Closet is there for anyone who may need services. They offer financial help for cancer prescriptions and gas money for out-of-town cancer-related medical visits. Ensure, incontinence supplies, and a large assortment of equipment are available.

The Closet has hospital equipment, wheelchairs, commodes, canes, walkers, and many other items. Items in good condition can be returned when no longer needed. The Loan Closet will also lend equipment to non-cancer clients on a short-term basis, so check with them before buying expensive medical equipment. They are also available to help answer questions and provide information and resources. They strive to make life easier for clients who already have a lot to deal with. Applications are available for financial help and are renewed yearly.

Along with Iron Mountain and Kingsford, this resource is available to residents from Norway and, in Wisconsin, Aurora, Florence, Niagara and Spread Eagle. Other areas may call 906-776-0966 for further information. Loan Closet hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

They receive local grants and other funding, including a recent donation from the 100-Plus Women Who Care group. Their building is in need of major repairs that will be costly. With the help of donations and a generous offer from Habitat for Humanity, these repairs will soon begin.

“Good People Helping Good People” is the logo at the Loan Closet and that carries through area communities.

Golden K will meet Monday in the fellowship hall of the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford, with the program to begin at 10 a.m. The guest speaker will be from St. Vincent de Paul.