Written by: Ian Stockberger, Good Shepherd Health Center
Fresh off the greens of the 2026 Chamber Golf Outing I am once again reminded of the networking and fun this event provides for chamber members. Other than during covid or a dreaded rain-out, I can’t remember the last time Good Shepherd, Inc. has not sponsored a team. From our perspective, the tournament is well run, well attended, and always evolving to meet the needs and expectations of chamber members.
I always find it refreshing and unique that the tournament is alternated between two great local courses, The Legacy and Highland Park. The Legacy has really worked hard over the past few years to improve their course, making it a great venue and Highland Park is like an old friend I grew up with, making each year a unique and worthwhile experience. Highland Park, especially, brings back fond memories every time I play it as my grandma lived just a few houses away. I spent countless hours as a youth looking for lost golf balls and lurking in the shadows, watching the people that “knew how to golf”. It’s still debatable whether I know how to golf or not but I find it remarkable that I am now the one driving the cart, teeing off, and putting the greens, often wondering who is tending to my old duties in the woods.
Regardless of your skill level or past involvement, I would encourage organizations to get involved with not only the Golf Outing but other Chamber events as well. These great events are a near guarantee of having conversations and networking opportunities that I would not otherwise have. In the current world of technology, noise, and fast-paced environments, I find it is more important and beneficial than ever to physically get out and be a social part of our great community, taking time to build relationships and strengthen connections along the way.