GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - WHAT: The Grand Rapids Griffins Youth Foundation 12th Annual Golf Classic. The event is the primary fundraiser for the foundation, whose mission is to expand the opportunities for participation in ice skating and related sports activities, and to encourage academic excellence, community involvement and healthy lifestyles among the youth of West Michigan.

The 2006 golf classic is expected to raise between $80,000-$100,000 for the foundation, making it one of the largest charitable events in West Michigan.

WHEN: Wednesday, Aug. 30. Shotgun start at 11 a.m. Dinner, silent auction and live auction at approximately 5 p.m.

WHERE: Railside Golf Club, 2500 76th St. SW, Byron Center

WHO: More than 150 golfers will participate, including local and national hockey personalities such as:
1980 U.S. Olympic gold medalist and long-time New York Islander Ken Morrow;
Detroit Red Wings radio play-by-play voice Ken Kal;
Griffins general manager Bob McNamara and assistant coach Jim Paek;
Former Griffins players Joel Kwiatkowski (Florida Panthers) and Travis Richards (retired).

AUCTION: Dozens of unique items, ranging from sports memorabilia to goods and services from area merchants, will be available through both a silent and live auction during dinner. Items include:

18-person suite at Wrigley Field on Sept. 12, including food and beverage;
16-person suite at a 2006-07 Griffins game;
Detroit Pistons suite;
Two-night Grand Suite Getaway at the Inn at Bay Harbor;
Lake Michigan charter fishing adventure;
Autographed items such as a Steve Yzerman jersey, an Alex Ovechkin (2006 NHL Rookie of the Year) stick, and a 2005 Michigan Wolverines helmet and jersey.

TICKETS: The golf event is sold out, but a limited number of tickets for the dinner and auctions are on sale for $25 (individual) and $40 (couple) by calling (616) 774-4585 ext. 3027.