by Gary Rollins
LA VETA- To the surprise of many this past Friday, an announcement came from La Veta that Grandote Peaks Golf Course would reopen on Memorial Day, May 30.
The exciting news came from Dr. Charles R. “Randy” Briggs, owner of the golf course and the person also responsible for announcing Grandote Peaks’ closure this past December. Those familiar with the local scene are well aware of the legal issues that have complicated the relationship between the golf course and the town these past few months.
When La Veta voted overwhelmingly to move in a new direction with Don Keairns as Mayor, it signaled a positive climate for business, and it now seems apparent that Dr. Briggs capitalized on the chance for a new, improved relationship with the Town of La Veta. Although there are legal issues still outstanding, there appears to be a new mood, and Dr. Briggs expressed optimism about being invited to participate in a special workshop sometime soon to discuss the outstanding issues and seek workable solutions.
The keynote promotional event that will kick off the golfing season will be a Fundraiser Golf Tournament that will benefit the 1st Annual Main Street Beautification Project of the La Veta-Cuchara Chamber of Commerce.
In order to make this kickoff event happen, Briggs reported that the entire work force of Grandote Peaks has volunteered their time to do whatever it will require to make Grandote Peaks ready for tournament play on Memorial Day. Briggs said, “I am at a loss for words to describe how deeply I am touched by this gesture from people who have been unemployed since last December. I have nothing but kind thoughts to express about each and every one of these people. Without them, it simply could not happen.”
Briggs encouraged those who would support this effort to contact either Kelly Popejoy or Dave Middleton at 719-742-3391. The tournament will be played in a two-man scramble format with a 12 noon shotgun start. Advanced registration will facilitate selection team/partner placement. Individual and late registrations will be assigned to teams. Check-in will begin at 11 am after an opportunity to purchase “Mulligans.” A refreshment cart will serve beverages and snacks on the course.
A silent auction will be held and bidding on items will open at 11 am and close following the tournament. A lunch buffet will be offered for the players and live music on the deck will begin at 4 pm and last until 6 pm. Entry fees have been established at $95 per person– a total of $190 per team– with the proceeds going to the La Veta/Cuchara Chamber of Commerce Main Street Beautification Project. In addition to great golf and a favor bag, there will be awards for the top teams.
This is precisely the kind of news that can energize La Veta and the surrounding communities which all directly benefit from having Huerfano’s #1 tourism attraction back on board and ready to tee it up as the new season begins.
For many whose lives and business fortunes are dependent on Grandote Peaks, last Friday’s news was as welcome as the arrival of a beautiful spring in Huerfano Valley.
