Teeing off for charity

They were playful weapons that found their way into the hands of peace officers and supporters as they teed off to help others less fortunate.
Golf clubs were a swinging by more than 80 golfers at Oaks Golf Club near Hayfield as the Dodge County Peace Officer’s Association held the Fifth Annual Loring Guenther Memorial Golf Tournament Sept. 15.  
Captain Guenther died from a massive heart attack on Sept. 10, 2013 just shortly after getting off work. Even though the death happened at Guenther’s home, state officials ruled his death was a line of duty death. The medical report indicated acute daily stress and cumulative stress at work as factors in his death.
“The tournament was a great success this year due to the tremendous work done by the tournament committee, along with members of the Sheriff’s Office who spent weeks and months preparing for the tournament, planning and gathering donations,” said Sheriff Scott Rose. 
The fundraiser featured a silent auction and door prizes donated by nearly 50 businesses and supporters from the area, according to Rose. Prizes ranging from gift certificates to a 50-inch television were given out. Several large cash donations were received from Czapleski Funeral Home, Rud Monuments, National Fleet Graphics, Kasson Car Care, L&L Streetrods and Scott and Renee Carlson. 
“Many of our sponsors have been involved every year since we started this event and are either law enforcement supporters or have connections with law enforcement,” Rose said. “Every donation, regardless of size or value, is truly appreciated and together helped us put on a wonderful event that will benefit many in our county.”
One popular item each year is a handmade custom fishing rod designed and built by retired Sheriff Gary Thompson. 
After all the expenses were covered for the tournament, DCPOA cleared more than $4,500. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots program, which is a program Guenther loved and had been active with for years. 
“It was his goal to always ensure that no child in Dodge County go without something special under the tree for Christmas,” Rose said. 
A portion of the proceeds will also be used to help fund a new local Law Enforcement Scholarship program being developed in Guenther’s honors to help graduating seniors who want to purse a career in law enforcement. The committee plans to have this scholarship ready for this year’s graduation classes at all Dodge County schools. 
“We want to thank all of the golfers and sponsors for helping make this event a success, and helping make a difference in our community,” Rose said.