Tossin’ in Paradise

The warm sun shone down, a cool breeze streamed by, the sound of swooshes from bean bags tossed into the air could be heard, and then a cheer as it made the targeted landing. 

Tossin’ in Paradise, the inaugural cornhole event was a major hit on Saturday, March 22nd, at Veteran’s Community Park. This brand-new event gave residents of all ages something different to do together on a weekend morning. 

Kiwanis, Sunrise Rotary, and Noontime Rotary, who organized and sponsored the event, wanted to break the event mold of concerts and food festivals by providing something new. An event where both children and adults could compete together and make lasting memories. “We began planning in October,” said Jill Sandberg, Kiwanis President. 

“The idea of a cornhole tournament had been mentioned in the past, but no one wanted to take it on,” added Arne Sandberg, “So I thought this would be a great opportunity for this powerhouse group of ladies to take it on!” He fondly referred to the three presidents of the organizations and Deb Henry, Fundraising Queen. “The goal is to make this annual and make it bigger. It isn’t just about fundraising but about giving back to the community.” Community was emphasized by Sandberg who continued, “It’s about getting the community together. Look around,” he gestured to the mixed crowd, “We have kids playing, we have the Police Chief playing, we have Pastor Scott playing, Joel Gewirtz – the founding Kiwanian of Marco Island is here. Local businesses sent their employees to play. Everyone is here!”

High-Tech Events, who hail from Tampa, brought seamless organization to the dozens of teams. The brightly colored lines of cornhole boards were each given their own music genre painted in bold on the boards to make it easy to find as the competitors moved up in the brackets. 

Marco Island Charter High School students were a huge part of the day, with the students offering refreshments. The Girls Lacrosse Team made burgers, the Key Club had yummy treats at their bake sale, and the Optimist Club had snow cones to cool off with. “All the money that the MIA students raise, they get to keep for their respective programs,” said Sandberg. 

The band Backcountry Boys kept the energy flowing with their lively music for the players, along with plenty of line-dancing tunes for the audience members who were there to support loved ones playing. 

“We have 30 volunteers for the event,” said Sandberg as he smiled proudly at the team effort. Whether it was manning the 50/50 raffle, drink stations, event info, or pouring mimosas – Kiwanis, Noontime Rotary, and Sunrise Rotary members could be seen with smiles on their faces, talking with the participants. 

24 teams pre-registered to play, with several walk-ups the morning of, garnering over 30 teams total. Team names with plenty of laugh inducing puns could be seen with matching shirts and costumes. Everyone enjoyed getting into the spirit of the cornhole tournament. 

Competition began at 12, and the rows and rows of brightly colored cornhole boards sounded off with thuds and swooshes. Excitement could be felt in the air from the players and their loved ones who cheered on the sidelines. Even four-legged furry family members enjoyed the beautiful day and lots of pets. 

The first place team received a two-night stay at the Hilton on Marco Island. The second place received two gift cards from Marco Island Eco Tours. The third place received a Cocomo’s and Marco Brewery gift card. Fourth Place, “the world's okayest corn hole players,” got two Salty Dog gift cards. Salty Dog also donated gift cards to the Best Dressed Team/Cornhole Clown – Children of the Corn. The Oldest Player and Youngest Player winners got gift cards from Sweet Annie’s.

The event was envisioned for the entire community: all ages, backgrounds, businesses, and families. Tossin’ in Paradise lived up to the goal. 

The money raised from the event will go to local charities.