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Beacon House presentation at Golden K meeting

Golden K guest speaker for the week was Mary Tavernini Dowling, chief executive officer of Beacon House in Marquette shown here with program chairman Don Pedo.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — Monday morning began rainy and a little foggy, but Lois Outcelt as program chairperson for the month of November, brought her bright smile along ready to direct the Golden K singing. Alyce Derwinski flexed her nimble fingers, warmed up the piano and these two ladies brought the fellowship hall at the First Presbyterian Church alive with music. Christmas songs rang out loud and clear.

The “Pledge of Allegiance” followed by singing of  “God Bless America” always opens the business meeting reminding everyone of our heritage. The guest song welcomed Mary (Tavernini) Dowling, CEO of Beacon House in Marquette.

Happy Dollars shared many thoughts of Thanksgiving, family, anticipation of the Christmas season, thanks to the faithful crew who come early Monday mornings and set things in place. The smell of fresh coffee brewing is a comforting welcome. Winning the 50/50 drawing brought a smile to Mary Jane Nelson, she held the lucky ticket. Happy Birthday to Bob Bowman, Dec. 1. Happy Anniversary wishes to Al and LaVern Calcari,  Nov. 27, Bill and Karen Burgess, Nov. 29.

Chairperson Lois Outcelt, reminded members of the Christmas party on Dec. 12. Reservations need to be in to Don Pedo by Dec. 5. This party will be held at Recreation Lanes with music provided by Bobbie Jo Riske. The Christmas party for the special needs children will be Dec. 19 and members are reminded to come early 8:30 a.m. for setting things up. Ray Pilon and daughter, Mindy will provide the entertainment for the children. They may bring a surprise guest or two also.

Don Pedo as program chairman introduced Mary Tavernini Dowling. She felt at home being in the area again. Since it’s inception in June of 2002, the Beacon House has offered an affordable place to stay to families with patients who have experienced unexpected medical situations requiring specialized care for their loved one. Some people may be visiting the area when an accident or illness occurred, some are referred to Marquette area for specific treatment. Whatever brings a patient also brings family members who need a comfortable caring place to stay. The hospitality rooms provide comfort, security, friendship, fellowship, support through difficult times.

The ability to remain close to the hospital where their loved is —  is vital for the patient and the family. The Beacon House has been able to do this with much support from individuals, organizations, memorials. With the completion of the new Duke LifePoint Hospital in 2017 the Beacon House is again in the process of moving it’s facility to remain as close to the hospital as possible. Negotiations are on going with a expectation of donated land and hope for the future sale of the present location, Beacon House anticipates building this much needed and well-utilized facility.

Dowling presented a power point narrated by Steve Mariucci who used this facility when a family member was ill and  felt the need to devote his efforts to give back. He, along with many other organizations sponsored a 2016 Celebrity Golf Classic in June. Along with NFL Jay Freely, and surprise guest, Bret Michaels This project was able to raise some much welcomed funds for the Beacon House.

The dictionary defines a Beacon as a light in the darkness guiding those in need, help to find their way in whatever lies ahead. The Beacon House in Marquette prides themselves on doing that since 2002 and remain positive as changes come. With the support from the U.P. people, they will always be able to care for the needs of patients and families, keeping them together through those critical times. The need for support and care is vital to the patient and family. Families who may be strangers become bonded and friends supporting each other. The Beacon House is there for all no matter where they call home.

Mike Werner will be the program chairman for Dec. 5, updating the group on the Almost Home Animal Shelter and the Golden Throats will be singing Wednesday, Dec. 7 at Victorian Pines. Dec. 12 the Iron Mountain jazz band will provide some great music from very talented young people. You are welcomed to join any Monday morning, 10  to 11 a.m.

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