In an attempt to take advantage of the unusually mild weather, the Columbus Lodge #2143 Golden Lions plan on opening their 2007 charity softball season at the 14th Annual St. Mary's Tournament. The April 7 event will be at Cunningham Park in Queens and according to tournament coordinator Ken Schmidt, the event raises money for Saint Mary's Children's Hospital Inc. (SMCH).

SMCH provides medical and rehabilitative care for children with special needs. Its inpatient programs and services are designed to address all aspects of the healing process complete with bilingual support. Pediatric specialists, nursing, rehabilitation, and child development coordinate each child's individualized care plan to ensure optimal outcomes.

"Our team's mission has always been to use our softball skills, enthusiasm and financial resources to help raise money for local charities and for 11 years we've done a pretty good job," said Ed Bochynski, manager of the Golden Lions, who has participated in local softball charity events that have raised over $701,000 since the team's inception.

Last year's season-ending MSF championship seemed like a fitting ending to a 30-year softball career, but instead a rejuvenated Ed Bochynski (47) returns for his 11th season as Golden Lions player/manager. During the past decade, Bochynski has guided the team to 16 tournament championships and a tournament winning percentage of .708.

The Golden Lions are expected to open the season with a familiar lineup. Dennis Tranchina led the Lions in HRs and RBIs in each of the past two seasons and has emerged as a team spokesman. Corner outfielders Dave Saviano (OF) and Jaime Campos provide stability on the field and in the lineup. And Kiko Campos replaces the injured Jeff Steinberg, who is expected to be out of the lineup for 8-12 weeks.

Massapequa shortstop Joe Percella returns for a sixth season and remains the focal point of the team's infield defense. Veterans Mooky Castillo and Lee Miceli return along with newcomers Bill Murphy and Farmingdale's Phil Guerrieri. Scratched from the season opener are Anthony Curran (hernia), Jeff Steinberg (bone chips in his elbow) and Rob Igneri (torn rotator cuff).

The Golden Lions are affiliated with the Columbus Lodge #2143, a not-for-profit fraternal organization and member of the Order Sons of Italy in America. The lodge offers its members various social and recreational activities, as well as community involvement. To become a member one may contact Sam Novarro at 694-9732.