Golfers swing in support of Blue Mountain Hospital

Published 12:43 pm Tuesday, July 31, 2018

Seasoned golfers and those new to the sport had an enjoyable day on the John Day Golf Club course Saturday at the 12th Annual Blue Mountain Healthcare Foundation Fundraiser Golf Scramble held at the John Day Golf Club.

All funds raised this year will benefit a new nurse call system at the hospital. A total of $9,000 has been raised so far.

“This call system is going to cost over $100,000, so we have a big goal ahead of us for the year,” said Foundation Director Jena Knowles.

“The Foundation board is made up of community members, local business owners, and hospital employees who are all passionate about healthcare in Grant County,” she said, adding the funds raised go to the hospital district, usually to purchase something that is needed but that may not be included in the budget for the year.

Knowles joined 60 other golfers and played on a team with family members, including her mother-in-law Sally Knowles.

“We’re just so happy to be out here on a beautiful day in support of the hospital with family,” Sally said.

There were 16 teams in all, with some representing businesses, and at least one group represented a town.

Torin Foster said his teammates Lucas Moore, Shane Koppel and Reuben Harvey talked him into joining in.

“We’re here to support the hospital and represent Seneca,” he said.

Their team finished in second place gross.

Winning first gross were Brad Smith, Matt Wenick, Jay Kenyon and Billy Colson.

Smith said because it was a fundraiser, the team donated their winnings back — so did all the other teams — and they also donated their 50/50 raffle winnings back.

Jena Knowles called the event a success.

“A huge thank you to everyone that came out to play, all the businesses and individuals that sponsored our event, and the John Day Golf Club for allowing us to use their great course,” she said.

Results

First gross: Brad Smith, Matt Wenick, Jay Kenyon and Billy Colson

Second gross: Lucas Moore, Reuben Harvey, Shane Koppel and Torin Foster

First net: Lucas Moore, Reuben Harvey, Shane Koppel and Torin Foster

Second net: Keith Thomas, Bob Houser, Greg Jennings and Brandon Sickler

Highest gross: Brenda Mosier, Carmen Gardner, Denise Houser and Rayne Houser

Highest net: Brenda Mosier, Carmen Gardner, Denise Houser and Rayne Houser

Long drive, men: Matt Wenick

Long drive, women: Lacy Avera

KP, men: John Avera

KP, women: Lacy Avera

Men’s winners: Brad Smith, Jay Kenyon, Matt Wenick