The Sons of Italy-Columbus Lodge #2143 Golf Committee recently announced the 7th Annual Columbus Lodge Charity Golf Outing will be on Thursday, May 29 at the Bethpage Golf Course, Home of the 2002 US Open. According to Golf Chairman Bill Iannone, the entry fee will be $130 per person and includes an 8AM-shotgun start, golf cart, continental breakfast, refreshment, snack and dinner.

The day will begin with a pre-golf continental breakfast at the Bethpage Golf Course (serving will begin as early as 6:30 to 8 a.m.). During this time, golfers may take this opportunity to practice at the range. At 8 a.m. a shotgun start will mark the beginning of 18-holes of golf on Bethpage's Yellow Course. At the half way point, each player will be given a refreshment and snack (which will include a hotdog and soda or beer).

Following a round of golf, each player will be invited to the fabulous Stuart Thomas Manor, located only minutes from the golf course, for an early buffet dinner. At the dinner, prizes will be awarded for the closest to the pin, 50/50 money hole (par-3 TBD), longest drive (over/under 55 y/o), lowest score (Callaway system), and most honest golfer. In addition, raffles will be available for purchase with golf equipment among the prizes.

One of the unique features about the Columbus Lodge Golf Outing is the opportunity for local companies, civic associations, and/or individuals to support local Long Island charities by sponsoring a hole or tee. According to Bill Iannone, the cost of a "hole sponsorship" is a modest $100 and the cost of a "tee sponsorship" is a reasonable $50. A plaque with the sponsor's name will be placed on any of the sponsored golf holes.

One may sign up as a foursome or as an individual. If you sign up as an individual the Columbus Lodge will make sure you are part of a foursome. According to a Lodge spokesperson, this is a perfect opportunity for local businessmen to treat their elite clients to a wonderful day of golf and dinner at a reasonable price. For further information on signing up for the outing, one may telephone Chairman Bill Iannone at 796-6321 or Co-chairman Angelo Mangione at 249-5649.

The Columbus Lodge #2143, is a member of the Order Sons of Italy in America, a not-for-profit fraternal organization. The Lodge offers its members various social and recreational activities, as well as community and charity involvement. For more information on becoming part this organization one may call Steve LaScala at 735-2535.