Mari Barnett and Marlene Emerson Named Chocolate Jubilee Co-Chairs

Alzheimer's Association - Greater Michigan Chapter's 32nd Annual Chocolate Jubilee set for Oct. 29 at MGM Grand Detroit.

Southfield, MI, October 20, 2016 --(PR.com)-- The Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Michigan Chapter has announced that Mari Barnett and Marlene Emerson will serve as co-chairs of the organization’s 32nd Annual Chocolate Jubilee. The “Masquerade Ball”-themed fundraiser will begin at 7:30 p.m., Sat., Oct. 29 at MGM Grand Detroit (1777 Third Street, Detroit).

The nonprofit organization serves 138,000 individuals and their families in Michigan struggling with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Barnett, who has co-chaired the Chocolate Jubilee for the last three consecutive years, became involved with the organization in 2011 when she joined the event’s planning committee. She quickly moved on to lead the effort, providing new insight and enthusiasm. Passionate about the cause, Barnett and her husband Ken are longtime Alzheimer’s supporters.

In addition to the Alzheimer’s Association, Barnett has worked with causes related to hunger, homelessness, children and adults, often leading campaigns to collect donations and feeding the homeless in Detroit.

“Mari’s creative talents, positive energy and boundless spirit are a source of inspiration and motivation to everyone she touches,” said Alzheimer’s Association -Greater Michigan Chapter President & CEO Jennifer Lepard. “We know that she will make this evening a success, as she has done over the last several years.”

Originally from Lebanon, Marlene Emerson came to Michigan, by way of Chicago, in 1997 to work at Quicken Loans as Director of Telecommunications. While there, she met her husband, Bill, who now serves as the company’s CEO.

Following Bill’s father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis several years ago, Emerson became involved with the Alzheimer’s Association. Practicing a “kill it with kindness” philosophy, she finds joy in giving back to the community and is involved with numerous nonprofits and programs.

Added Lepard, “Marlene brings laughter, love, compassion and joy to whatever she does. We are incredibly thankful for her involvement with our organization and the hard work she has put into this year’s Chocolate Jubilee.”

The evening’s keynote remarks will be made by Tyler Leightner, a 22-year-old Alzheimer’s advocate whose family, for generations, has suffered from younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Following his address, guests will enjoy live music by Mel Ball and Colours, dancing and extensive chocolate tastings from 18 chocolate exhibitors starting at 9 p.m.

For more information, to purchase tickets or learn about the live auction packages, which include a luxury vacation in Cabo San Lucas, passes to the 2017 Masters Tournament and tickets to Super Bowl LI, call 248-996-1050, visit www.alz.org/gmc or contact event manager Maureen O'Reilly at moreilly@alz.org.

About the Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Michigan Chapter
Founded in 1981, the Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Michigan Chapter is a private, nonprofit, voluntary health organization and one of more than 80 chapters across the United States. The Greater Michigan Chapter is headquartered in Southfield, with regional offices in Alpena, Grand Rapids, Marquette, Midland and Traverse City. Covering 60 counties, its services are available to more than 138,000 individuals and their families who have Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

The vision of the organization is to create a world without Alzheimer’s disease while optimizing the quality of living for individuals and their families affected by dementia-related disorders. For more information, visit www.alz.org/gmc or call 248-351-0280.
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