Page 24 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2019

COASTNOTES
story by Lynn Lofton
Dinner bene tting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast
With a theme of Boots & Bling, the 28th annual Steak & Stake Dinner takes place July 26 at 7 p.m. at IP Casino. The event benefits the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast.
“This year’s entertainment includes a
Covey nominated band, 3HG, and club members showcasing their talents during the program,” said Morgan Bogolin, marketing and communications coordinator for the Boys & Girls Clubs. “The theme, Boots & Bling, calls for an upbeat evening of music and dancing. Guests are encouraged to put on their favorite pair of boots and add a touch of bling, but they do not have to wear western attire.”
The Steak & Stake Gala is the organization’s largest fundraiser with funds supporting operating costs for the five locations in Hancock and Harrison counties.
“Proceeds from the event allow us to continue great work with the children and families who count on us every
day,” Executive Director Keva Scott said. “Supporting Steak & Stake will help open the door to a better future for
a child.”
228.896.3770 www.bgcgulfcoast.org steakandstake@bgcgulfcoast.org
story by Kelsey Sunderman-Foster
The loss of a loved one is always difficult to bear, even when their life was given in service to their country. In the wake of grief, a little known but valuable program called the Navy Gold Star Program is there to help.
The Navy Gold Star Family Initiative is a Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) Fleet and Family Readiness program that honors the sacrifices of service members who have lost their lives while serving on active duty, ensuring their parents, siblings, spouses and children are taken care of. Despite the name, the program extends outside of the Navy, targeting the families of all fallen heroes who are in need.
Through the program, Navy Gold Star support coordinators provide dedicated outreach and support when, and for as long as is needed. Their coordinators are located all over the United States and are ready to help you in any way they can. Gulfport’s own Navy Gold Star coordinator
at the Naval Construction Battalion Center, Emily Kolenda, was recently named Navy Gold Star Coordinator of the Year. In only two years on the job, Kolenda has managed more than a thousand cases.
SERVICES
Grief
Relocation
Events & Activities Financial Counseling Ongoing Military/
Base Benefits Educational Benefits Any Information &
Referrals Needed
Navy Gold Star Program 5301 Sneed St., Bldg. 30 Gulfport
228.871.3000 or 800.342.3525 www.navygoldstar.com
Hours: Monday-Thursday 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday
7 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
24 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • July 2019
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