In its fifth year, Oakhurst’s 2008 charity golf fundraiser was as strong as ever, raising $8,127 for Oakland County’s Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial.
“Even in this tough economy, people still come forward,” said Paul Cloutier, event committee member. “It gets easier every year. The community loves the idea of giving back to those who protect us. It’s a great cause.”
Oakhurst Golf and Country Club members, neighbors, and friends got together for a game of golf, silent auction, and dinner, Sept. 22.
“This is really awesome. We really appreciate it,” said Sheriff Michael Bouchard, at a check presentation, Jan. 8. “It allows us to continue to work on the memorial. Funding is all through donations. We have no paid staff ? it’s all volunteers. The community really stepped up and took us under their wing.”
The memorial, unveiled in 2002 in Pontiac near Oakland County Courthouse, includes a lifesize bronze statue of a kneeling police officer and firefighter, facing a granite wall engraved with names of Michigan officers and firefighters lost in the line of duty.
“More than 780 police officers and firefighters, all in Michigan,” Bouchard said. “Sadly, we’ll add more names in the future.”
The memorial is important to their families ? it shows them their loved ones haven’t been forgotten, and will be eternally remembered and appreciated, said the sheriff.
Improvements planned for the memorial include landscaping, lighting, flags, and an information kiosk.
About 40 deputies, firefighters, and public officials partnered with residents and club members on the course off Clintonville Road, playing 18 holes, all sponsored by local businesses.
“They do a good job for us. We really appreciate it,” said Lt. Dale LaBair, Oakland County Sheriff’s Independence Township Substation.
“We’re honored to be there,” said Sgt. Paul Bidinger, Independence Township substation. “They work so hard at this event. It’s incredible. I can’t tell you how wonderful this community is.”
Local police and fire departments brought fire trucks, police cruisers, sheriff’s armored personnel carrier, and other vehicles for the family-friendly day.
“The parents enjoyed spending time on the golf course with the people who protect them, and the kids had fun looking at the trucks,” Cloutier said. “We’re so appreciative of what they do.”
Since 2003, the fundraiser has also benefitted Lighthouse Emergency Services, SCAMP, and families of officers and firefighters lost in the line of duty. The tournament has been in September, but will be earlier this year.
‘We’re moving it to May, when it’s not so busy,? Cloutier said
For more information on the Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial, call 248-858-5103.