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Local golf club gives underpriviledged kids a swinging chance

By Staff | Jun 23, 2009

Americans cannot flip through television channels or open any publication without being reminded of the many stories of people being affected by the current economy.

The Fort Myers Beach Golf Club understands that kids are suffering from the economy as well. Because of the loss of discretionary income, many are cutting back on travel and entertainment, as well as other activities as a family. Therefore, Fort Myers Beach Golf Club will be sponsoring two underprivileged children for each of their golf camps being held throughout the summer.

The first of three 3-day Summer Golf Camps will be held from June 26-28. The camps will be run by the staff of the golf club and taught by PGA Golf Instructor Tom Manziano. Each camp will begin at 9 a.m. and end at 3 p.m., and will welcome children from the ages of 10-17. Each participant should bring their own set of golf clubs; however Fort Myers Beach Golf Club has a few sets that may be reserved at the cost of $30 for the three days.

The camps will be educational as well as fun. They will include: proper stretching and cool down techniques, taught by local beach massage therapist Mike Schmetterer; golf swing analysis; golf etiquette; and contests for the longest drive, putting and chipping. Lunch and snacks will be provided to the participants each day. The camps will close on Sunday with a student/parent tournament in which the parents may participate with their children.

General Manager A.D. Diaz and Owner Chip Durpo have had their share of giving back to the local community; including hosting over 12 tournaments that benefit local charities and causes, one of these being this year’s first annual “Blues on the Green Seaside Soul Serenade,” a blues fest that benefited the local Island Arts Foundation. If you would like to volunteer to help the Fort Myers Beach Golf Club with any of the camps, please call 239-463-2064 or email at golf@fmbgolfclub.com.

If you’d like more information on this topic to schedule an interview with A.D. Diaz, please call 239-463-2063.