Tony Edlebeck spoke to Golden K about the history of the City of Kingsford. Above is Edlebeck with Sue Proudfit, Golden K chair.

KINGSFORD — There are four distinct seasons in the Upper Peninsula. Each has a special quality that appeals to one individual or another. Fall presents a wonder for all ages that must be enjoyed quickly. Birds foretell season change as they flock together for migration. Foliage evolves from harmonious green to colors that take one’s breath away. Leaves soon fall as the flora prepares itself for rest under the snowfall.

These changes do not slow the seniors from making their way to the Monday morning Golden K meeting. They arrive with a joyful noise, excited to meet, greet and share stories. Chair Sue Proudfit assembled the group as Alyce Derwinski settled herself down to the piano and Lois Outcelt, in fine vocal tune, led the singing. “Blue Skies,” “Bye, Bye Blackbird” and “Yankee Doodle Dandy” resounded loud and clear.

Joanne Lindholm picked up the 50-50 winnings and Gary Proudfit, in his signature charismatic manner, read the Happy Dollars. Sandy Soltis was happy to rejoin the Golden K meeting after a long absence. She and Joanne Hady were grateful for the beautiful day. Ron Jouppi was appreciative of his weekend trip to Minnesota and the extraordinary fall colors along the way. Orice Walters is anticipating future travel while the fall colors are still shining.

Happy Birthday wishes go to Janice Santi on Sept. 27 and Alyce Derwinski and Kirk Olson on Sept. 30. Anniversary wishes were sung for Dave and Judy Sielaff. Guests welcome for the day included Mickey Khoury and speaker Tony Edlebeck.

Today was a history lesson via PowerPoint presentation by Edlebeck. Kingsford recently celebrated its centennial.

After many hours of research, writing and collaborating, Edlebeck and his dedicated staff put together a history of Kingsford in book form. There are now two volumes celebrating local events in grand style. It was an outstanding program, bringing to mind many names and memories for the group.

Kingsford began as a small village and has grown into a city with its own zip code. Businesses, schools, and people have grown with their area. There is an amazing story behind the development of our communities and storytelling has always been the backbone of human tradition.

Edward G. Kingsford pursued his dream to build a city of progress and pride. Henry Ford, also a man of influence and dreams, injected his ideas and capital into the city. Businesses were developed. Schools were built, as well as grocery stores, Post office, and factories. Does anyone remember the dairy or the sawmill? Do you know how Grede Foundry came to be? What about the vocational center and the chemical plant?

Also explained were the airport, ski hill, toboggan slide and Armory. All that and more is documented and put into a book. Pictures, stories, and 100 years of history make Kingsford the distinctive community it is today. Kingsford continues to grow, maintain, and upgrade its surroundings.

To fully appreciate the efforts of Edlebeck and the staff who diligently compiled this history, one needs to read this book. The volumes are available at the Kingsford City Hall on Carpenter Avenue. The tales and photos will bring back memories and astound with dates and names of people who made Kingsford the community it is today. And the story continues.

Golden K will meet Monday at the First Presbyterian Church. Meetings begin at 10 a.m. and all are welcome.