Operation Lifesaver speaker at Golden K
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By JOAN JOUPPI
For The Daily News
KINGSFORD -- The aroma of fresh coffee and tables set with delectable doughnuts await the Golden K members on Monday mornings. Gloomy weather doesn't dampen the spirit of these seniors. They are excited to see one another, share weekend stories, and settle in for a program. There's always something new or updated in the community.
With a quick ring of the bell, chairperson Kathy Jo Anderson gathers the group to start the meeting. Alyce Derwinski pulls the bench up to the piano and sets up her music. She gives a nod to Bill Roberts, who leads the group in singing some favorite oldies. The "Welcome Son" greeted guest speaker Louis deKoster.
Happy Birthday greetings went out to Steve Carlson, Myrna Ward, Larry Lindholm, and Mary Tachick. The anniversary song went to Jim and Susan Benzing and completed the singing. Ben Determan was surprised to win the 50-50 drawing.
Keeping the group informed about local football news, we acknowledged the great job the young players have exhibited. With the Ford Field and the finals getting close, these athletes are determined to give challenge to their prospective opponents.
Kathy Jo Anderson read a tribute to veterans, past and present, in recognition of Veterans Day. She introduced the guest speaker, Louis deKoster, a retired Naval veteran who works with the Operation Lifesaver program.
He travels a large area, bringing awareness to the importance of rail safety. The program provides safety education and is powered by dedicated volunteers. Their goal is to end collisions, deaths and injuries near railroad tracks and trains. It is a non-profit program providing critical life-saving education concerning signing related to railroad crossings.
According to wwlp.com news, every three hours, a person or vehicle is hit by a train in the U.S.
A train traveling 55 mph will need the length of 18 football fields to stop. Walking on train tracks or balancing on rails is risky. You never know when a locomotive will surprise you. Be prepared to slow down when approaching railroad intersections.
Read the signs leading up to the intersection and obey those flashing red lights. They are for your safety and not to be ignored or challenged. If you are stuck or in an emergency situation, there may be a blue and white sign with a number to call for help. Make safe choices, cross legally and look both ways. Your life depends on it.
This organization has eLearning opportunities for professional drivers, school bus drivers and first responders. They provide free presentations across the U.S. Operation Lifesaver will gladly share knowledge with clubs, schools, and scout groups.
Go to https://oli.org/about-us/news/media for more information. Help stop track tragedies, learn the facts and make good decisions. "Trains are quieter and faster than you think, and only trains belong on the tracks."
Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday with speaker Geno Basanese, representing the Michigan State Police Iron Mountain Post. All are welcome.