This year’s edition of the Foundation’s Golf Tournament, held on Monday, August 16th, did not escape the turbulent weather; and for the first time in the event’s 25 year history, play was suspended after nine holes, for the benefit of both the course and the golfers. Tournament results were based upon the completion of nine holes.First place in the ladies’ flight, with a score of even par was the foursome of Eve Skier, Karen Lewis, Ginny Lopis and Ellin O’Hora.

 First place in the men’s flight on a match of cards and a score of minus five was the foursome of Shawn Sterner, Jerry Besko, Jason Wilson and James Mack.

 Winner of the first place in the mixed flight on a match of cards with a score of five under par was the threesome of Fred Jackson, Lorie Wood and Dr. Brian Brown. All prize winners appear on WMH’s website.

One hundred thirty eight golfers registered for the tournament, which was five more than the prior year. There were only 10 cancellations due to the weather, so 128 golfers made their way around the saturated and very challenging links of Woodloch Springs, under cart path only rules. After nine holes, virtually everyone was eager to experience Woodloch’s warm hospitality and cold beverages. The Woodloch staff did a superb job shifting gears and advancing the cocktail hour and dinner by an hour and a half. Everyone was able to enjoy their favorite beverage, along with healthy appetizers of assorted cheeses, fruits and vegetables that was then followed by Woodloch’s famous steak bake featuring New York strip steaks, fresh fish, jumbo shrimp cocktail and all the trimmings. Quality and attention to detail was not sacrificed. The Woodloch golf professionals assisted with the golfing award presentations and everyone was on their way home by 7:00 p.m.

Before tee off at 12:30 p.m., John Kiesendahl, President of Woodloch, welcomed the large contingent of golfers, noting that it was Woodloch’s largest tournament of the year. He went on to comment that it was five years ago that the Foundation had changed the name of its annual tournament to the Harry Kiesendahl Memorial Golf Tournament in memory of his father; and that he would have been delighted to see so many people present on a less than favorable weather day. John’s comments were right on the money, because his dad was always there, rain or shine, welcoming people, making certain that no matter the conditions or what else might be occurring, that the guests were having a good time. In support of the Foundation’s fundraising efforts, Woodloch maintained their prices for golfing, food and beverages at 2010 levels. Their kindness made it possible for the Foundation to keep the price per golfer the same for the last four years. Although the number of sponsors decreased from last year’s record of 65 to 55, the gross proceeds from sponsors exceeded last year’s level. Net proceeds of approximately $34,000 will be utilized to defray the cost of the new family waiting area for those patients, who are having surgery at Wayne Memorial Hospital.

If there is anything that changes more than the weather, it certainly is healthcare, in the way that it is provided and the way that it is financed, as well as, the miraculous outcomes that are achieved as evidenced by an aging population. What has not changed over the past ninety years is that Wayne Memorial Hospital continues to grow and develop in terms of technology and the numbers of those that we serve. All of the above would not be possible without you, the donors, sponsors, and supporters.

It is my privilege to inform you that the 6th annual Harry Kiesendahl Memorial Golf Tournament is scheduled for Monday, August 20, 2012 at Woodloch Springs. In the interim, for all you golfers, who are also sporting clays enthusiasts, and for those of you, who are non-golfers and sporting clays enthusiasts, this is a reminder that the 4th annual Harry D. Propst M.D. Sporting Clays Invitational, sponsored by Wayne Memorial Health Foundation will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2011 at Catskill Pheasantry, located in Long Eddy, New York. We are anticipating a good turnout of shooters and a brisk, dry fall day. Hope to see you there.