TWO OUTSTANDING EVENTS COME BACK...

Two "old timers" will be back in 2007: our Pro-Am, which has been absent for 5 years and the most popular of all scrambles, the AC Houston Lumber Scramble, which took a one year rest.

Our Pro-Am will be on Monday, July 16th. The better news though, is that like the early 80's Pro-Ams, it will be to benefit the very worthy organization of Gallup Special Olympics! In a joint effort with Gallup Special Olympics, which is headed by Janie Hall and aided by a number of people, but most important, some golfers: Brad Vergien, Sabrina Ezzell & Tim Kline among others, we decided that we would return to "our roots" and remember the efforts of the late Sharon Mraz, a 7 time Women's City Champion and who, in the 80's, enthusiastically headed Special Olympics of Gallup. And of course, she was the person who sparked enthusiasm among all supporters. Thanks to Howard Menapace and his family, for several years, Sunwest Bank (later Boatman's and now Bank of America), was the title sponsor of the tournament. Our local Special Olympics Charter was cancelled for a few years, but is now back and with renewed enthusiasm. We should all be proud to have such a group in Gallup. I know I am and know they will be successful. Though we cannot assure anyone a spot, it is recommendable that all amateurs sign up early as we do not know how many spots will we have for the out of town professionals. We will use the "first come, first serve" rule. Hey guys, thanks for allowing us to be involved with you!

And then, of course, how can we forget the return of the most popular of all scrambles? ... the A.C. Houston Lumber Scramble. After a one year absence, the tournament will be held on Friday, July 27. As always, it will raise funds for a local charity. Several charities have been benefited from this tournament over the years. Jackie McKinney, general manager of the Gallup store of A.C. Houston, always has good surprises as far as the charity... and always gets outstanding support from other branches of A.C. Houston as well as many vendors and players. Usually, there is not one golfer who goes back empty-handed as there are so many door prizes... yes, as many as there are participating golfers, which always surpasses 144. We will keep all of you informed.