Joanne Lindholm photos Golden K speaker Kathy Kulas, left, executive director Habitat for Humanity Menominee River is introduced by Sue Proudfit, Golden K chairperson.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — So many places to go and events taking place as summer bows out gracefully.

Chairperson Sue Proudfit got the regular meeting started with the group singing some favorite oldies. Alyce Derwinski prepared a list of songs for the day as Lois Outcelt led the singers. “Blue Skies” and “Anytime” seemed appropriate for the day. With special guests, the extra voices almost rattled the windows.

Happy Birthday wishes were sung for Alyce Derwinski and Kirk Olson. The Welcome Song rang out for guests Kathy Kulas, Director of Habitat for Humanity as well as Brooke Myers and Faith Gunville who are recipients of Golden K scholarships.

“Auld Lang Syne” was sung in memory of Lorraine Luba, who was a long time Golden K member and a tireless community volunteer.

Sharon Scholke won the 50-50 drawing, and Happy Dollars reflected great times with family. Sharon Neubauer celebrated her mother’s 90th birthday, and Sharon Scholke was thrilled to get tickets to a Michigan State University vs Northern Michigan University basketball game. Special guest Gunville was happy for a healthy family and a sunny day.

The Golden K scholarship committee includes Ben Determan, Sharon Scholke, and Gilbert Engel. They were able to present scholarships to two women. Scholarships this year were awarded to non-traditional students. These are deserving students that may have been overlooked in other available programs. Bay College assisted the committee by providing a list of prospective students.

Golden K’s final choices were Brooke Myers and Faith Gunville. Both ladies are returning to school to enhance their education and careers. Easing the cost of returning to school in a chosen field is the goal of the Golden K. Both young ladies are wished success in their journey.

Speaker Kathy Kulas, Director for Habitat for Humanity, works with Habitat organizations throughout Dickinson and Iron Counties, as well as surrounding communities.

Habitat for Humanity is an international organization with affiliates worldwide. The local branch representing the small rural jurisdiction ranks fifth in the country.

Volunteers are essential for many of their projects. Both specialized and general assistance is always needed and appreciated. Qualified persons with specific training are required for work such as electrical, plumbing, and heating. There are also opportunities in their re-store and for other general needs.

Homes are built or repaired for those who apply and qualify. Community service buildings may also be eligible for upgrading. People who meet the guidelines participate in the process with volunteer service. Health and safety are some of the criteria used to evaluate conditions for individuals in need of assistance. Some typical projects include roofing and furnace or septic issues.

A home in Norway was recently built for a family with special needs.

The Cancer Closet just underwent major upgrade in windows and siding with assistance from the local Habitat crew.

Walkways, pavilions, and recreational areas are some additional ways our Habitat group has been working.

Habitat for Humanity partners with other organizations like the Dickinson Area Community Foundation and 100-Plus Women to provide assistance. Grants help fund many of the projects.

Information can be found online at https://www.habitat.org/or at the local office.

Applicants will be guided through the qualification process. The needs of veterans, single parents, low income, and extenuating conditions are considered.

Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford, with Ben Determan as chairman and will opened the floor to anyone who has a story to share.

All are welcome.

Golden K Scholarship recipients Faith Gunville and Brooke Myers with Golden K scholarship committee member Ben Determan.