Friends of St. Francis golf tournament and online auction a success

Last Friday, 34 teams teed up in the annual Friends of St. Francis Charity Golf Tournament held at the Homestead at Wolf Ridge Golf Course. Running in conjunction with the tournament was the popular online auction that wrapped up on Friday as well. Volunteers and staff of the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation (SFVHF) organized both events and were thrilled with the results. Above Odd Man Out entertains the teams after play. From left: Kirk Harber, Terry Mask, Amy Easton, Jason Malinowski

Erin Gienow, Executive Director of the SFVHF, said proceeds from the tournament and auction will go towards the purchase of a GlideScope Core Unit for the Emergency Department at St. Francis Memorial Hospital. This device is a visualization system used for intubation and other critical airway procedures. She said although exact figures would not be known until later this week, this year’s events were “very successful.” It is expected that at least $30,000 will be raised, which is on par with past years.    

The putting contest was won by Adrian Tomasini, who received a gift certificate from the Ash Grove Inn for a night’s stay, dinner and breakfast. 

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Roseanne Hoffman, volunteer coordinator of the online auction, said it featured 66 packages with a catalogue value of $16,000. There was something for everyone and every interest. Now in its fourth year, the auction was supported by many returning sponsors — individuals and businesses — but she was also delighted to see new sponsors this year. As well, new this year were the gift baskets assembled by the SFMH Auxiliary — a great way to make gifting easier. Hoffman said she is always impressed by our local artists and crafts makers, and she posed for The Current holding one of the handwoven baskets donated by a new sponsor, as well as one of the ever-popular locally crafted quilts.

Gienow said the tournament and online auction would not be possible without the generous support of over 100 sponsors, volunteers, and staff at the Foundation. Although the format of the golf day changed from its usual shot gun start to staggered tee times, participants still had a great day.  “After our in-person tournament being cancelled last year, it was great to see so many returning teams and we also had the opportunity to meet a few new teams as well.” Teams enjoyed lunch in the marquee after playing, and were entertained in the afternoon by music from Odd Man Out.

While fun was had by all, Gienow added, “We hope that everyone that contributed to the tournament and online auction know that they are making a tremendous impact on local healthcare by ensuring that our wonderful care staff have the tools they need to care for us all!”