Every once in a while, it’s good for a fella to hang up the golf spikes, stash the rangefinder, and swap the polo for something a little sharper. The KFGC crew and I headed to South County for a night out that was less about fixing our slices and all about stepping up for an incredible local cause.
Before the dice started rolling, the real star of the evening was Lafayette Industries itself.
Fifty years of purpose and pride
If you aren’t familiar with Lafayette Industries, these folks are the real deal. Their packaging and fulfillment work is built around a mission that matters: meaningful, dignified employment for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Listening to the Lafayette team reflect on 50 years of work, and the possibilities ahead, gave the night its purpose.
The setting at Royale Orleans
Royale Orleans, at 2801 Telegraph Road in St. Louis, gave the crowd room to move between food, conversation, the auction, and the casino tables. The front lot made parking easy, and the bar staff kept things moving throughout the evening.
Ric’s banquet tip: On your first visit to the bar, leave a generous tip while ordering. It’s a small way to thank the people keeping a busy event running smoothly.
From the auction to the tables
The evening began with food and conversation before Lafayette opened the auction with a framed jersey signed by the 1999 World Series champion New York Yankees. That victory was the franchise’s 25th championship, moving it past the Montreal Canadiens’ 24 for the most titles among major North American professional sports teams. Lafayette’s team then shared the story behind its mission.
Afterward, blackjack, craps, and roulette gave everyone a chance to stack chips and turn them into raffle tickets. The KFGC contingent brought its usual energy. Shades arrived in James Bond style with Peggy; Lana Seapines held down the family mantle while Johnny was home on the injured reserve list. Irish Mike and Carol worked the tables, the Champ and Lisa kept the room lively, and Laggin’ Larry and Cathy treated every chip like a clutch four-foot par putt. Breadstick and I made our rounds, too.
A lucky finish for Breadstick
My lifetime raffle record sits squarely at 0-for-life. If they drew 99 tickets out of 100, I’d be holding number 100. Breadstick, fortunately, has all the luck in our household. When the winning ticket for the evening’s premier prize—a diamond necklace—was pulled, she walked away with the hardware and a smile that lit up the banquet hall.
Ric’s final take
Between the food, friendly service, a few beats at the tables, and Breadstick’s big win, it was a terrific evening. The best part was standing behind Lafayette Industries and the work its team has done for the St. Louis community. Here’s to the next 50 years.
Learn more about Lafayette Industries →
Earlier that month, three KFGC teams joined the Links for Lafayette golf tournament at Norwood Hills.