By Holly Jackson

Contributing Writer

Commemorating its 25th year of service in Travis County, Court Appointed Special Advocates recently held its 11th annual CASA Kids Golf Classic Charity Tournament.

Westbank resident Jerry Conway, an 18-year supporter of CASA and Austin Sonic event sponsor, served chairman of the two-day event.

More than 75 special supporters attended the evening pre-party at AT&T Conference Center courtyard. John Arthur Martinez and the Tejas band played live music, while guests nibbled on beef empanadas, chicken quesadillas, artichoke and spinach dip, hummus and guacamole served in miniature martini glasses.

The silent auction showcased impressive items that included an Earl Campbell-signed football jersey, Muhammad Ali-autographed punching bag, Nolan Ryan-inscribed baseball and Tom Watson- and Westbanker Tom Kite-penned U.S. Open poster.

Jim Cotton led the spirited live auction of seven luxury packages. The biggest bids that were awarded included a one-week trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina, a Quality Seafood shrimp boil party for 50 people and four skybox tickets to a University of Texas football game.

The day after the pre-party, the tournament featured 100 golfers at the Jack Nicklaus-designed championship course at The Hills Country Club in Lakeway. For the first time, flighted foursomes gave players of all levels more winning opportunities. The top-ranked team was Westbanker Lance Hughes, football notable Brian Jones, Jim Cotton and Hank Farrell.

Conway’s message regarding his involvement was simple.

“It’s all about the kids,” said Conway, who has supported the tournament since its inception. “We raised $100,000 for needy children who will realize this revenue through CASA services.”

CASA of Travis County is the only organization appointed by judges to be guardians ad litem in child protective services cases. CASA provides advocates to speak in court for children who have been removed from their home due to abuse or neglect. Approximately 400 volunteers serve 1,100 children annually to help them reach safe and permanent homes.

For further information, visit www.casatravis.org.