MICHIGAN STATE POLICE Trooper Geno Basanese spoke at the Golden K meeting about scams and how to avoid them. He was introduced by Kathy Jo Anderson, the chair for the month.

NIAGARA, Wis. — There appears to be an invisible feeling in the air. At first it is hard to pinpoint. What could cause this restlessness? A closer look at the calendar brings things into focus. Deer hunting season opens in Michigan. As Monday morning rolls around, the conversation is camp and more camp. It’s not that everyone goes hunting but almost everyone goes to camp. The ladies are just as involved in camp talk. Someone has to get things organized. The hunting gear is in order, the grocery list is complete, and there will be plenty of liquid refreshments. All is well.

In the midst of this hustle and bustle, the Golden K meeting comes to order with Kathy Jo Anderson at the podium. One ring of the bell and all rise for the opening ceremonies. Without wasting any time, Alyce Derwinski sets herself at the piano. She adjusts her music as Bill Roberts juggles the music book and singing begins.

In honor of all veterans, songs relating to each branch of service were sung. “Auld Lang Syne” was sung in remembrance of Rose Pedo. She and her husband, Don, were faithful members of the Golden K for many years. The “Welcome Song” greeted Geno Basanese, who was the guest speaker.

Happy Birthday was sung for Lorraine Luba, another longtime club member. Joannne Lindholm walked off with winnings from the 50-50 drawing. Happy Dollars celebrated the Proudfit family, who will welcome members in January. Gary and Sue Proudfit will enjoy two new great-grandchildren in January, bringing their total to 15. Dan Pedo keeps the Golden K up-to-date in football news. Congratulations to the Florence Bobcats and to Iron Mountain and Kingsford. Thanks for a great year. Youth sports programs bring pride to the community. Well done.

Michigan State Police Trooper Geno Basanese required little introduction to the Golden K. He is well-known and respected throughout the community. Among the many places and events he attends, he took time to bring the seniors the latest news on current scams and how to avoid becoming a victim. Basanese emphasized the importance of being cautious of offers that involve winning large amounts of money or other valuables. Scammers can be very convincing. They are well versed in fooling people so one needs to be alert. Scammers use phones, computers, e-mail, texts, social media, and eBay. Scams can come from all methods of communication. Law enforcement does what they can; however, scammers continually find new methods to deceive. Artificial intelligence has the potential to open new ways to fool people.

Always check any offer, however you receive it, with someone you know and trust. Check your statements, credit cards and banking information before making any verbal commitment.

Ask others if they have experienced similar requests. Don’t hesitate to talk with family, neighbors or law enforcement personnel for advice. Remember the age-old saying: “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

Don’t send money without verification. Scammers will try to make things sound urgent and rush you. This is your red flag. Check things out first. Call the bank, the credit card, or the company they claim to represent.

Basanese could not emphasize enough: “Do not send money!” Once money is sent it is nearly impossible to get it returned. When leaving your home for any length of time, have a trusted neighbor or friend check on things. Local police can be asked to do a drive by now and then.

Trust is a very important word. You can’t always trust the voice on the other end of the line or message.

Basanese referred to many types of scams that have occurred locally. Golden Kers shared experiences and Basanese fielded many questions.

The Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday, with a program at 10:30 a.m. with Katy Driscoll and Peter Schlitz doing a presentation on emergency response. All are welcome.