Frank Horn Memorial Softball Game, Silent Auction Raise Funds for Island Scholarships
By Bernie Nguyen

The Horn family gathers on the field at Great Turtle Park after the game. (From left, front row) Johnathan Horn, Tyler Allen, and Riley Allen; (middle row) Irene Horn, Jerry Horn, Mariah Horn, Candy (Horn) Smith, Vanessa Hardy, Desiree Nordstrand, Robin Belonga, Linda (Horn) Belonga, Jill Horn, Gary Horn, and Susan Horn; (back row) Tom Horn, Brian Horn, Kirk Smith, Bobby Horn, and Ben Horn.

The third annual Frank Horn Memorial Softball Game drew Islanders in force to help support the Frank Horn Memorial Scholarship, bid on some valuable items, and watch some innings of exciting softball Thursday, June 22. In keeping with the relatively new tradition, friends and family of Frank Horn, and Island residents and visitors drawn by the prospect of a good game and a good hot dog helped to raise approximately $4,500.

The scholarship is awarded to Island graduates attending college.

A nostalgic conversation between Islanders about the past softball leagues that were played on Mackinac led to the idea of a single big game, which evolved into a fundraiser and soon became a social event.

Tony Brodeur, one of the event's organizers, said that in thinking of a worthy cause, he and others felt that collegebound seniors who were sure to incur expenses and would appreciate the extra help would fit their need. After deciding on the final destination for the money raised, all the event lacked was a title.

"We needed a name," Mr. Brodeur said. "We wanted someone who was the epitome of community."

He explained how Frank Horn, who passed away several years ago, was the perfect example of an Islander committed to helping his community in any way possible.

"We felt that he'd give his blessing to use his name to start that foundation," he added.

While this year's event was smaller than the previous two years, Mr. Brodeur said, he hopes next year will attract more support and more volunteers to help make it as strong as possible.

"We're already talking about next year," he said.

In addition to the crowd of spectators, the softball game was an exciting mix of home runs, leading to the highest scoring game in the event's three-year history. Derrick Horn of St. Ignace hit three home runs to the cheers of the crowd.

One team won, 23-21, but neither had names this year and some players switched during the contest. Several people filled in as umpire. Such are the makings of a good game.

Auction items included lunch for two at Grand Hotel, a 40-ride commuter passes on Arnold Transit, a game of golf for four at Wawashkamo, a one-night stay at Chippewa Hotel, an hour-long spa treatment at Lilac Tree Hotel, a lighthouse cruise from Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry, and 20 cinnamon rolls from Martha's Sweet Shop. Some of the most popular items up for bidding were Roger Horn's homemade pickled eggs.

Many Island businesses and individuals donated items and time to the event.