GOLF TOURNEY AIDS TOM SMITH FOUNDATION AUGUST 5, 2002

WESTWOOD - The inaugural Tom Smith Foundation Golf Classic will take place Saturday, September 21 at the Glen Ellen Country Club in Millis.

The Tom Smith Foundation was established to perpetuate the memory of Tom Smith, a Westwood High School classmate and friend. Smith died of lymphoma in 1991 during his senior year at Boston College.

The Foundation strives to enhance the lives of local youths and their families by providing scholarships and grants to programs that foster social and educational development, health and wellness, and athleticism. Funds raised in the golf tournament will allow the foundation to further its mission to honor and assist local youths with the cost of higher education.

Every year since his death in 1991, the Tom Smith Foundation has awarded a scholarship at Westwood High School for the student who demonstrates the same characteristics that friends admired in Smith, including honesty, good sportsmanship, academic achievement, unselfishness, and a sense of humor.

This year's recipient, Elizabeth Gutterson, will receive $1,000 for each year of her education at Trinity College ($4,000 total). In addition to providing this scholarship, the foundation would like to erect a permanent fixture in the town, such as a park bench or back stop (which would be fitting considering Smith was such a huge sports fan) to serve as a lasting reminder of him. The foundation will be using the proceeds from the golf tournament to establish this memorial.

A shotgun start will commence at 1 pm., and prizes will be awarded for longest drive (male and female), closest to the pin (male and female), and first, second, and third place teams. Participation in the golf outing costs $115, which includes greens fees, golf cart, a goodie bag, and a barbecue reception in the clubhouse. Tickets for the reception only cost $40.

To learn more about Tom Smith, the Tom Smith Foundation, or this year's golf tournament, visit tomsmithfoundation.com. The event is sponsored by AM PM Cleaning of Waltham.