Strokes of KINDness Golfers are All Smiles

Was the 2015 Strokes of KINDness Benefit Golf Tournament a success? In the Bear Dance Golf Club parking lot at the end of the day, someone was overheard saying, “Did you have fun?” and the reply was: “Yeah! And I’ll be back next year.” On Monday, June 15, a sellout crowd of 140 KIND golfers hit the links to help Kids In Need of Dentistry support underserved children with dental needs…and simultaneously had a great time, reflected in the smiles (bright and beautiful smiles, of course) in participant photos throughout the day.

At Bear Dance Golf Club’s signature hole–see the bear-claw bunkers? (l to r): Randy and Alexa Kowalczyk, Deanna Goodrich and Ed Steigman

The 28th annual tournament began with a breakfast sponsored by Henry Schein Dental to fuel golfers before tee-off. Even those not in competition for a trophy had opportunities to win prizes. One Par 3 featured a free bottle of wine for anyone hitting the green. All golfers were given a ticket to try to qualify for a cash prize in the putting contest. Acing a tricky putt was their entry into the finals, and several who were oh-so-close on their try bought extra chances for $10 each.

Golfers received a ticket for one shot at qualifying for the putting contest, but could buy extra chances for $10 each.

After 18 holes (with nary a raindrop!), golfers met up in the clubhouse dining room for a hearty lunch provided by Bear Dance catering. A number of prize drawings netted tickets, restaurant meals and even an Avalanche-autographed hockey stick for lucky recipients.

This year’s tournament results:
1st Place:
Dr. Matt D’Addario
Dr. Russ Ford
Dr. Gary Field
Brett Buller

2nd Place:
James Hoffman
Jamie Hardy
Mark Chatterley
Cary Lamb

3rd Place:
Mike Garzone
Brain Gooch
Dominick Lochi
Mark Lochi

Men’s Longest Drive: Dominick Lochi
Ladies Longest Drive: Dr. Naomi Lane
Men’s Closest to the Pin: Dr. Richard Dial
Ladies Closest to the Pin: Deanna Goodrich
Long Putt: Al Schwindt
Putting Contest Winner: Dominick Lochi

KIND’s mission is to increase the health and happiness of Colorado’s children in need by eliminating dental disease through treatment and education. In 1912, a group of Denver dentists recognized a need for affordable dental services among children of low-income miners and railroad workers, and decided to form a non-profit organization aimed at addressing that need. While much has changed in the over 100 years since KIND began its first clinic in Denver Public Schools, KIND’s mission has not.Through KIND’s programs, staff, faithful volunteers and supporters, the organization continues to provide quality, comprehensive dental care and education to Colorado’s children in need. For more information, please visit: http://kindsmiles.org.