The 2009 “Wings of Hope” golf classic was conducted at The Ridge golf course in Auburn, California, on August 31. The classic is the major fundraiser for the C. Farinha Goldrush Chapter #116 at Sacramento. Chapter President Dick Stultz and golf chairman Lee Greer said participants described the tournament as “best ever, outstanding, well-planned and executed, great fun” and in other most complimentary statements. Net proceeds from the event exceeded $30,000 for the second year in a row. This is especially noteworthy in light of the current state of the economy and the tight fiscal constraints that most companies and individuals are experiencing. The money that was raised will go directly to the Chapter scholarship program and the military family support program. Over the past several years, C. Farinha Goldrush Chapter has provided scholarships in excess of $20,000 per year to local area students, and has also provided over $12,000 per year to needy military families in the local area.

Honoree for this year’s classic was Henry Wirz, President and CEO of SAFE Credit Union. Wirz was honored for his many initiatives at SAFE that have contributed to the wellbeing of military families over the years, particularly in providing support for educational initiatives. He has initiated and endorsed numerous programs at SAFE to help provide scholarships and support services to meet the unique needs of returning veterans who have endured sacrifices.

One highlight of the day’s activities was an event called the “helicopter ball drop.” Chapter members sold tickets for numbered balls. A helicopter rose over the drop site and released the exact number of balls sold onto a target painted on the ground. The ball closest to the center was declared the winner. Over $8,000 was raised by the ball drop, with $4,015 going to the winner.

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The Air Force Association (AFA) is an independent, nonprofit IRS 501(c)(3) organization. This newsletter is published monthly via e-mail. Submissions or comments should be sent to AENewsletter@afa.org.