From left, Golden K guest speaker Suzanne Larson, CEO and executive director of the Dickinson County Chamber of Commerce, with Lois Outcelt, Golden K chairperson.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

IRON MOUNTAIN — Flowers are blooming, trees are budding, and grass is growing. Summer has arrived. Out come the mowers and tillers to prepare the garden. Maybe even getting campers ready for long awaited family outings. Schools are out and the lake is inviting. Mix all of that with graduations, family re-unions, fishing excursions, and summer activities. One becomes very busy. With so much going on in life, it is wise to set priorities. Summertime here is short, use the days wisely.

Golden K seniors do just that. They can be found at grandchildren’s activities, on fishing excursions, golfing, or even enjoying a newly installed air conditioner. They know how to be thankful for just being healthy. Happy Birthday wishes were sung for John Aune and Shirley Winters. Anniversary wishes rang out to Larry and Joanne Lindholm. Welcomed guests included Pat and Shirley Beaudry, as well as guest speaker Suzanne Larson.

Larson is CEO and executive director of the Dickinson Area Chamber of Commerce. She has been an active community and Kiwanis club member and participant. She brings a valuable set of skills to the chamber.

The chamber of commerce has been operational in this area for many years. Their goal is “To enhance and improve the quality of life in the community and promote economic growth.” Her involvement in a variety of community events such as Italian Fest, Bras for a Cause and various positions in media sales helped prepare her for the challenge of the chamber and all the businesses they represent.

Larson shared a bit of research she has done into records dating back to 1927. Chamber meetings first occupied a back room in the Milliman Hotel, later called the Dickinson Hotel. Its original mission statement was “Promotion of Civic and Moral Welfare of the Community and City.” One notable event mentioned in the records was preparation for the visit of President Calvin Coolidge.

Their present location was constructed under the title of “Project Pride” in 1966.

Current chamber membership has grown to almost 400 businesses. Dues that originally started at $15 are now higher but still a great investment. Memberships are available for individuals as well as businesses. Growth, public awareness, and accessibility are some of the areas they continue to pour attention into.

Larson brought a wonderful new project into the area called Lemonade Day. Building on models from other cities, this project has gained popularity for young and old alike. It offers children an opportunity to start and operate their very first business: a lemonade stand.

It teaches young people important core educational values. They learn how to set up and run a business, and how to handle money. They delve into the cost of supplies, setting goals, and using finances wisely. Parents and grandparents of children from third to sixth grade can stop into the chamber office to sign up and get support materials completely free of charge. This year’s event will take place Saturday, July 19. Anyone can share in the fun, as there are no borders — Wisconsin and Michigan children are welcome. Call the chamber for additional information at 906-774-2002.

Dues and community support help the chamber assist local business leaders to be an organized team that benefits all of us. Watch for a golf outing fundraiser coming up later this summer. Check out their website for more exciting news and events: https://www.dickinsonchamber.com/.

Golden K will meet Monday, featuring Tracy Daun, who serves as the municipal judge in Niagara. Join them at 10 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford.