GOLDEN K CHAIRWOMAN Sue Proudfit introduces guest speakers Marshfield Medical Center-Dickinson Regional Chief of Nurses Trenton Rankin, left, and Marshfield Medical Center-Dickinson Director of Public Relations and Business Development Joe Rizzo.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — The trees have completed their color show for this year. Rakes and leaf blowers appear, as residents prepare for the tedious job of clearing yards. There are still a few leaves hanging tightly so keep that raking equipment handy. When the city truck arrives with the giant leaf vacuum, you can reach for some liniment for those achy muscles.

Sue Proudfit took up the chairmanship position and promptly brought the Golden K seniors to their feet for opening ceremonies. Lois Outcelt played some patriotic music on the piano and Richard Jouppi Ochoa stepped up to lead the singing. The National Anthem brought everyone to their feet in song. The group sent the words out with gratitude. The theme continued with “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” and finished with “Let There Be Peace on Earth.” The music brought a good feeling to a great day.

Welcomed guests included Joe Rizzo, Marshfield Medical Center-Dickinson director of public relations and business development, and Trenton Rankin, regional chief of nurses. The group was also honored to have hardworking community supporter Kathy Arnold, director of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program — RSVP.

Candy Bucheuski happily collected winnings from the 50-50 drawing. Gary Proudfit read the Happy Dollar notes. Bucheuski shared news that her son received his bachelor’s in health administration. Kathy Jo Anderson never misses an opportunity to spend time with grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. Bill Roberts was feeling very satisfied as he reported the win for Michigan Technological University, who received the Miner’s Cup for the 14th time. Other exciting news included Iron Mountain, Kingsford and Norway making the high school play-offs.

Joe Rizzo make an appearance to bring hospital update information to the Golden K seniors. A new merger between Marshfield and Sanford brings questions and concerns forward. Rizzo and Rankin explained what this will mean for the local hospital. The merger brings two strong health care organizations together to improve outpatient care, expand research capabilities and harness technology and virtual care. They will remain independent organizations sharing resources to bring the best possible care close to home.

There are still details to be ironed out as plans for the final infrastructure are put into play. Keeping patients needs first and foremost, these two organizations are working diligently to ensure the best possible care.

The newly opened cancer center is proving to be a vital part of local care by providing up-to-date equipment, comfort and privacy. Bringing this center into reality was challenging, but it has become a positive asset for those in need. Local donations were an important part of keeping the cancer center on track.

Merging together brings opportunities for research and resources to rural areas, enabling the facility to better serve patients and improve lives. This is the goal of all medical personnel.

Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford, with Gino Vendetti as the guest speaker. He will enlighten the group on local honey production. Everyone is welcome.