Golden K hears history of Bay Cliff Health Camp
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IRON MOUNTAIN -- The fall season is beginning to display its beautiful artistry with flora showing off. Exploding colors take one's breath away. Though it is forerunner of what is to come, it is also a time to relish the landscape.
Monday mornings may be a little crisp but that does not hamper the Golden K members from gathering for their Monday morning meeting. Sue Proudfit donned her chairmanship hat and rings the bell to lead opening ceremonies. Alyce Derwinski warmed up the ivories and Lois Outcelt led the singing. Songs like "Shine on Harvest Moon" and "Oh What a Beautiful Morning" rang out loud and clear. The Golden K was ready for the day.
Happy Anniversary wishes went to Dave and Judy Sielaff. Lois Outcelt happily gathered winnings from the 50/50 drawing. Jack Vander Lugt, executor director of Bay Cliff Health Camp and speaker for the day, was welcomed with song. The thought for this day was appropriate for the presentation. "Be a rainbow in someone else's cloud"
Bay Cliff Health Camp in Marquette County has been a rainbow and more for thousands of people. Their story began in 1913, when their location in Big Bay was home to a lumber company. It evolved into a dairy farm in 1917. With 165 acres of land, the property found its way into fulfilling a dream. During the Depression, two women saw a potential space for poor and needy children. Nurse Elba Morse and physician Dr. Goldie Cornelieson established a camp where undernourished and underprivileged children could come to receive food and support.
In 1940, the camp changed its focus to address the polio epidemic. Hospitals were overwhelmed and the camp took in some of the patients. The camp soon opened its doors to children with all types of disabilities. To date, thousands of children have been through the camp experience. It brings joy and a feeling of belonging to a community that faces many challenges. They focus on setting goals and many times the children's personal achievements astound them. A dedicated staff of volunteers and professional members strive to help make life a little better for each child in spite of their challenges.
Therapy and counseling programs take place in a safe environment. Participants learn skills they can take with them at home and into the future. Best of all, the atmosphere is Fun! The primary session lasts seven weeks. There are various shorter programs and a year-round schedule. Students normally stay at the camp without family. A trained staff is prepared to meet the needs of each child, whatever that may include.
Bay Cliff is open for registration from anywhere in the United States. They operate entirely on donations and grants. Bay Cliff Health Camp is having its annual open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Eastern time today. Visitors are welcomed at other times if they contact the office for availability.
Jack Vander Lugt is a young man with a big heart and a pocketful of ambition. He is determined to make Bay Cliff a continued success. Take a ride to Bay Cliff and perhaps enjoy fall colors along the way. You will be surprised at what awaits you there.
Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. All are welcome to enjoy coffee, doughnuts and learning.