Joanne Lindholm photo ED LAARMAN, LEFT, a member of CRU — Christians for Racial Understanding — was introduced by Gilbert Engel, Golden K chairman. Laarman was the speaker at Monday’s meeting.

KINGSFORD — Millard Kaufman said, “I glanced out the window at the signs of spring. The sky was almost blue, the trees were almost budding, the sun was almost bright.” These are some of the many reasons we look forward to April and new beginnings.

The sun was shining as the Golden K gathered for their Monday meeting. Gilbert Engel ran the bell, bringing everyone to their feet for the singing of “God Bless America,” as Alyce Derwinski accompanied on the piano.

Bill Roberts led the group as the singing continued. Old familiar songs “Anytime,” “Doodle-Le-Do” and “Five Foot Two” brought smiles to the members. The group greeted Ed Laarman with the guest song and sang Happy Birthday to Mary Swope.

Pot of Gold Winner was Sandy Soltis. Gary Proudfit read the Happy Dollar messages, which included Happy Easter greetings from the Gospodareks and a message to enjoy the sunny day from Soltis.

Members were reminded of Paul Ward’s service, which will be today. Visitation is 10 a.m. to noon, with a celebration of life at noon at Jacobs Funeral Home in Iron Mountain. Refreshments will follow.

Engel introduced the speaker for the day, Ed Laarman. Engel and Laarman are both involved with a local association called CRU — Christians for Racial Understanding.

CRU was started in 2021 by a group of community members who felt a need for understanding of racial tension and strife in the country. This informal organization is led by the Rev. Geri Hamlen, pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church and the Rev. Ed Laarman, a retired pastor. Though this group is based on a Christian foundation, one need not be a Christian to participate.

The mission, in part, of CRU is to further racial understanding in ourselves, the community and the country. They have grown slowly by word of mouth, but now are ready to “go public” and invite anyone who shares their goals to join. They are also ready to take more “action” steps to promote racial understanding in the area. Their goal is to build a beloved community.

Meetings have an educational component, which might include in-person or Zoom speakers with a member of a minority group or someone working on a racial issue. Articles and books are also discussed. They met with one community member of a minority group. She and her children endured racial taunts and act as a result of their race. CRU seeks to overcome prejudice and learn to be more sensitive to people of other races.

CRU meets from 1 to 2:15 p.m. on the third Tuesday monthly at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. The organization can be contacted at northwoodscru@yahoo.com.

Laarman and his son, a teacher at Niagara High School, led the first community celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. in January 2023 at the Niagara School and hope to continue this annual event.

Laarman was thanked for his interesting and thought-provoking presentation.

Golden K meets weekly at 10 a.m. Mondays at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. All are welcome.