Fundraiser Earns Money for New Golf Course Equipment

Wawashkamo Golf Club held an equipment fundraiser Saturday, June 30, on the Greens at Mackinac at Mission Point Resort. Money will help pay for numerous improvements to the golf course over the past several months, including the enlargement of several of the course greens.

The event included a live auction for tickets to the Indianapolis 500, boat trips, and lawn care products, plus a silent auction, putting games, hors d'oeuvres, and cocktails. It raised about $15,000 toward the purchase of a new rough mower for maintenance on the golf course, said Steve Rilenge, co-chair of the Greens Committee and the club's vice president.

Ninety-six people attended the event.

"Some of the things here have been around for a long time, and it's just hard with all the money it costs to keep a golf course going," said Fred "Fritz" George, Wawashkamo's PGA Professional. "I've only been here six years, but I've never been to a place that's so caring as Mackinac Island. It's pretty heart-warming. The whole Island, if somebody needs something, they come together and do it."

Wawashkamo Golf Club will host its annual opening party Saturday, July 7, at 5 p.m. Course members and guests are invited to enjoy a cookout catered this year by The Island House.

Mr. George will also announce the course's tournament winners from 2006.