The Sullivan County Democrat golf tournament is by far the most anticipated event to play in. Teams are already calling Fred Stabbert (tournament host) to get in early next year. The dates have been established for 2024, July 26 to 28. 

Those of you who know the history of this event know it came to the Villa Roma golf course in 1989. I have been the tournament Coordinator for many years since. Between shotguns on Friday, the qualifying day, Bill Phillips, Gregg Semenetz Sr. and yours truly were inducted into The Democrat Tournament Hall of Fame. 

It was a great honor for all three of us. Bill and Greg have teamed up at this event for many years. They won in back-to-back years in 2001-2002. Gregg hit one of the all-time shots in Democrat history in a playoff to win. Third green 25-footer right in the heart. Billy and Gregg have been great competitors for years. Nobody is ever comfortable playing them. Congrats to you both.

For me personally to be inducted was shocking as Freddie only told my wife Jill and Ken Cohen who has been a longtime friend. Ken’s speech got me a bit emotional. He said some wonderful things and I’m truly grateful to be recognized. 

Everything was moving so fast during the induction process, and I knew the players were all chomping to go out. I didn’t get a chance to thank the Villa Roma pro shop staff. They did a wonderful job preparing. Tim Clark, Steve Veeder, Arye Wolberg, Gabby Cohen, Kayla Benson, Grace Wormuth and Tayor Allen I can’t thank you enough. Everyone knew their part.

The golf course was in the best shape in years. All the players were raving about the conditions. Will O’Brien, our Greens Superintendent, wasn’t at the awards dinner. He was probably home with a well-deserved 10-hour nap. You would have heard many compliments. You and your staff did a great job getting the course ready. 

Another “Democrat” in the books. Congratulations to the 2023 winners Mike Decker and Mike Scuderi.