BY PAUL KAMPE
Clarkston News Staff Writer
What would summer be without the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce golf outing? The chamber held its 20th annual installment of the summer outing Thursday at Pine Knob Golf Course.
The 18-hole, scramble format festivities began at 8:30 a.m. with a shotgun start.
‘It’s the most important event for supporting the chamber,? said Kay Pearson, first-year co-chairperson.
‘It’s our largest event to contribute to the annual budget.?
A 15-member planning committee met each month since the beginning of the year to get the wheels rolling.
‘It’s been an opportunity to work with members of the community and to support what the chamber does behind the scenes,? Pearson said.
‘We take the lead from our leaders and everyone pitches in.?
Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Penny Shanks estimated the event will bring in between $16,000-$17,000 for the group. The money raised is used to ‘keep the doors open,? Shanks said. The funds are earmarked for utilities and housing costs, she said.
Golfers had their share of chances to prove they’re the best, aside from their final tally on the scorecard. Winners of the hole-in-one events (four), longest and accurate drive and putting contests would have won prizes in addition to bragging rights. Prizes included leased vehicles including a Ford Mustang and a trip for four people to Australia.
‘Unfortunately, I didn’t hear of any hole-in-ones out there,? Pearson said.
In addition to the contests, the outing has evolved into a networking bonanza from its roots.
‘It’s not just social anymore,? Shanks said.
The big three were out on the course’representatives from Genesys, McLaren Healthcare Corporation and Beaumont Hospitals played the course too.
‘We have a nice, high level of business opportunities and contacts,? Shanks said.
‘Especially because they are in a building mode and will have needs. There’s a lot of things our local businesses can do for them, good partnerships and business to do.?
The outing was held at Liberty Golf Course for the past three years.
‘We have so many beautiful courses that are chamber members,? Shanks said.
After hosting 128 golfers in 2006, the chamber was worried about keeping up the number this year because of the economy. But the event saw 135 golfers this year.
‘We were very pleased with the turnout there,? Pearson said.