Golf under the stars to help Aquarium of Niagara

Join in the fun at "Putting for Penguins," an annual event to benefit the Aquarium of Niagara, on Friday, July 13, at the Newfane Pro-Am course at 2501 N. Main St. (Route 78).

For the past seven years, the Aquarium of Niagara has held this special fundraiser to support the non-profit educational attraction and its residents. It doesn't matter what level of skill golfers have, novice or experienced.

Glo-Golf is the name of the game. Golfers spend the first few hours playing in daylight, break for a buffet dinner, and play the rest of the game under the stars.

The event starts with registration and putting contest from 4:30 until 5:45 p.m. The buffet-style dinner begins at 5:45 p.m. Nine holes will be played in a scramble or best ball format. At 9 p.m., there will be raffles, prizes and awards followed by the last half of golf in the dark with Glo-Balls and "light ropes" at 9:30 p.m.

"Putting for Penguins" chairman is Rich Torcasio Jr., an Aquarium of Niagara board member. Kevin O'Neill of WGRZ Channel 2 is celebrity chairman. Beaker the penguin, the aquarium's mascot, will be there, too. Deejay Pat Proctor will play music to golf by. Don't forget flashlights and bug spray.

Golfers should register by July 6. Call 716-285-3575, ext. 206, or sign in by 5:45 p.m. that day.

Entry fees are $80 per golfer; $320 for a foursome. Party only is $30.

Several sponsorship levels are still available. Individuals, corporations and businesses can call Gay Molnar at 716-285-3575, ext. 204, to become a sponsor or to donate a prize.