Summer Fun Day

Friday August 23rd was the day of our annual golf outing. We had a record number of participants, although I would not assume the motivation was a shared love of the game.

There were a few serious golfers in attendance, but this is definitely an event tailored to the casual duffer. Making sure each cart was well stocked with Busch Lite and peanuts was imperative. Spare tees and balls are optional. For many of us, this is the first and last golf outing of the year. There is no shame in 50' drives and 2X par. 

Credit for the, "We're here to have fun while losing balls and creating divots," ethos belongs to the event founders, Johnny Sullivan and Herb Johanns. Johnny and Herb were the original "Douglas Township Mafia" of Pinicon landowners. The golf outing started as an entertaining activity to fill the dog days of summer void while simultaneously showing a little tenant appreciation. Herb always reminded me that made it deductible. As Johnny and Herb have passed, we have taken over hosting duties and expanded the guest list. The emphasis on having a good time remains.

Special guests included Johnny's wife Carol, her four children, in-laws, and a handful of grandkids. Herb's son Bob and his wife Beth participated and brought well wishes from Herb's wife Marilyn who resides in Grundy Center.  

I dreaded this event in the early days. The expectation to start drinking at noon while getting frustrated chasing balls did not seem like a productive way to spend a prime-time summer weekday. Now, I see it differently. We need to set aside time to show gratitude to the people we partner with to create the life we seek. The relationships we develop, the memories we make, and the goodwill we create are our enduring legacy.  

The spirits of Johnny and Herb live on.