Scuttlebutt 1037

Please Note:  For Members, Associate Members, and Dual Members, due date for payment of dues is 31 August.  Please send checks to Jerry Blanchette, 149 Summer St., Framingham, MA 01701.  Please make checks payable to Detachment 1037 MCL Metrowest.

The Metrowest MCL Golf Tournament Returns From COVID

    In 2020, the decision was made to cancel the Metrowest MCL Golf Tournament.  The uncertainty that existed when the planning needed to be done was very high.  In addition, many of our sponsors were struggling with lost business that would make it difficult to provide the financial support that helps us to run a successful tournament.  Although it was a tough decision to cancel, it was the right decision for the time.

    In 2021, conditions have improved enough that it was felt that the tournament could be run safely.  Golf Committee Chair Jim Hastings took on the daunting task of re-starting this long standing tradition.  Jim has carried on the leadership that was displayed by Tom Potenza and Ed Jolley in taking the reins for this tournament, even though it is a huge task.  With support from a small committee, stalwart sponsors, and dedicated golfers, the tournament was played on 16 August, in beautiful New England summer weather. 

    At 9:00 AM (0900), 36 foursomes started their rounds in a shotgun style tournament.  Many players have been in every tournament from the start, 20 years ago. This year, there were a number of new teams whom we look forward to seeing in future events.  While not all of the golf was pretty, the day was sunny and warm and could not have been much better.

    When the players completed their rounds, everyone reassembled at the Framingham Elks, who have been very supportive of the detachment.  Outback Steak House from Bellingham catered the dinner, again offering a favorable rate as they have for a number of years.  During dinner, Chairperson Hastings led the raffles of many prizes that had been donated by members, local merchants, and detachment supporters.  From hair care products to a rotisserie grill, the diversity of prizes was noteworthy.

    Following the raffles, Jim seamlessly transitioned to the role of auctioneer.  Attendees bid on and purchased a four ticket package to the opening day Patriots game, donated by Dan Bortolussi of Chambers Auto Group, and a hand-made golf themed quilt created and donated by Karen Iris.  Member Tom Foley again stepped up in arranging the donation of four well equipped golf bags that were successfully auctioned off.

    The support of area merchants, detachment members and supporters, our golfers, and our indomitable Committee Chair combined to enable a successful tournament that provided a fun day for participants and foundational funding for detachment charitable outreach.  As Jim Hastings announced, the detachment has provided over $100,000 in scholarships through the years and that is only one of the continuing charitable activities.

    We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to making this a successful day.  As Chairperson Hastings can attest, it is a lot of work, but the value that it adds to the community is worth it.   Detachment members and supporters who submitted advertising include Commandant Mac McEntegart, Al Schiff, Chaplain Mike Whelan, Paul Carew, Steve Stefan and Ed Horton- Massachusetts State Police Retired. 

We are grateful to the numerous merchants and businesses who supported the tournament with advertising.  Please support these advertisers as you shop for services and products:

Brendon Properties, Southboro: 

Attorney Robert Costello, Natick: 

Ironclad Services,  Springfield: 

Riverside Garden Center, Framingham: 

Burke Financial Service, Natick: 

Khouri Industries, Bellingham: 

T & J Heating and Air Conditioning, Bellingham:         

Brian's Country Greenery Florist, Bellingham: 

Future Bearings Incorporated, Bellingham:

TJ's Food and Spirits, Ashland: 

Tosti's Service Center, Framingham

Circles CG Farm Campground, Bellingham

D & D Mulch and Landscape, Bellingham

Black Cow Ice Cream, Millis

Ken's Foods Inc., Marlborough

Pandolfi's Fine Chocolate, Bellingham

Holliston Superette, Holliston

Advanced Gems and Jewelry, Framingham

Saxony Barbershop,  Framingham

D & M /Carquest Auto Parts, Milford

Northern Management - Dunkin Donuts, Holliston

Metrowest Regional Transit Authority, Framingham

Bernardi Auto Group, Framingham