BENTON HARBOR — The 34th annual GateWay Services “A Play for GateWay” softball marathon was another rousing success as it raised more than $31,000 at Plangger’s Field July 26 and 27.

The event featured 24 teams from businesses throughout Berrien County and surrounding areas. Gast Manufacturing took home the (not so) coveted title of tournament champions, as they spent the most money bribing umpires, which is the “scoring” method GateWay uses each year.

GateWay will use the money raised during the two-day event to develop a center-based respite program for the families, loved ones and primary caregivers of disabled adults.  This program will offer some measure of relief from the often overwhelming responsibility of caring for a disabled adult. 

“We look forward to this event all year long, and each year I am amazed and humbled by the generosity of this community,” said GateWay’s Executive Director, Tim Smith. “I’ve never seen anything quite like it.”

Smith said GateWay was honored to have State Representative Pauline Wendzel, from Michigan’s 79th House District in attendance to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. 

“Agencies and events like ours do not garner a lot of attention, so having Representative Wendzel here was extra special,” Smith said.

Wendzel is a lifelong Watervliet resident from a fourth-generation Bainbridge Township farming family. 

“I was incredibly honored to throw out the first pitch at GateWay Services annual softball marathon,” Wendzel saod. “GateWay is doing incredible work right here in our community to help those with disabilities and other barriers to independent living.  The money raised at this event will ensure they have the resources necessary to carry out their mission in the coming year.  Thank you to everyone who participated in this event.”