Caddyshack chips in for cancer patients

HURON TWP. — The Foundation for Firelands raised more than $182,000 at the 15th-annual Caddyshack Open, which recently occurred at Plum Brook Country Club. The funds will directly support patients and their families at Firelands Health in Sandusky who are battling a cancer diagnosis. "The Foundation for Firelands owes a massive debt of gratitude to our Caddyshack Open committee members," foundation development director Alice Springer said. "Nearly all have served since our first outing in 2011. Their commitment to providing support for our cancer patients has been a lifeline of hope, raising an incredible $1.5 million over the past 15 years." Participants embraced the Caddyshack theme with fun and colorful golf attire all while competing for a great cause. Among some standout participants: • The Al Czervik Crazy Pants Award went to Jim Wible. • The winning men's team consisted of Joseph Riley, Mitchell Rice, Thomas Olexa and Pat Riley. • The winning women's team consisted of Leanne Strack, Brenda Strack, Marcy Crow and Erin Nesbit. • The mixed winning team consisted of Cameron Ditty, Alexis Ditty, Jon Douglas and Dan Grabowski. Leading up to the event, community members showed their support by participating in the golf cart faffle. Once again, Janotta & Herner and Catawba Island Carts donated a 2025 E40FX Epic Carts Golf Cart for this raffle. This year's winner, Cindy Plue, was beyond excited to take the cart out for a drive. "When I called Cindy, she literally screamed with joy and amazement that she had won," foundation development officer Jody Mast said. "At first, she thought someone was playing a joke on her, but I was able to convince her it was for real, and she had won." The event's top sponsors included Janotta & Herner; Laura and Dan Keller; Mathews Ford; Dr. Amy Reese and Dr. Norleena Poynter; Tusing Builders & Roofing Services; and Art, Carol, Artie and Amy Wolfe. The Foundation for Firelands raises funds to support and enhance patient care at Firelands Regional Medical Center. Philanthropic gifts, both large and small, save lives and enhance the health, wellness and vitality of our region. People can visit foundationforfirelands.com/foundation for more information.