With pride in their hearts and birdies on their mind, the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership (LEAP) hosted their 46th Annual Play Day Golf Outing on July 17 at the Briar Leaf Golf Club. As the organization celebrated one of their first events of the year, President of Chamber Services Mike Riehle knew it had to be special.
“We haven’t been able to have an in-person event all year, so being able to get people out, enjoy, and network in a safe environment is exciting,” Riehle said.
COVID-19 protocols were adhered to as participants made their way onto the course. 30 teams participated in the event, breaking last year’s record.
“I think this is one of the things that people can do that’s socially-distanced and fun,” Riehle said. “We are looking forward to a good event. This is one of our bigger fundraisers for the year.”
The event would not have been possible without the help from local sponsors and volunteers. Katie Dermody, a volunteer with the LaPorte County Convention & Visitors Bureau, was glad to give back to the community through the event.
“With everything that has been going on in the past few months, this has been something positive to look forward to,” Dermody said.
La Porte roofing contractor Redwood Roofing and Remodeling wanted to give back as well.
“I’m looking forward to getting lots of birdies and donating lots of Heroic Hearts gowns to La Porte Hospital,” said Dudley Beyler of Redwood Roofing and Remodeling.
For each birdie scored, Redwood Roofing and Remodeling plans to donate one Heroic Hearts gown to the children of La Porte Hospital. Heroic Hearts specializes in fun, costume-like hospital gowns for young patients.
“LEAP is a phenomenal cause and it is great to support the Region and the community. There’s a lot of good people here,” Beyler said.
LEAP makes the community their top priority. Events like these help their mission, especially amidst the pandemic.
“It means a lot, just from the fact that we are trying to find ways to engage our members. We work with the business community and try to advocate for our businesses locally here,” Riehle said.
Although the golf outing had to be tailored to circumstance, Riehle expressed that the overall theme of the event is to have fun.
“That’s all we want -- just come and have fun! We are trying to make the event very fluid, so we do not have any gatherings, like awards.”
Winners will be announced via social media and awards will be mailed to recipients. Check their Facebook page for award announcements at https://www.facebook.com/LaPortePartnership/?ref=page_internal.
