Aug. 19, 2007 — An array of sports, movie and music stars made the trek to St. Thomas this weekend in hopes of helping Beacon Schools of the Virgin Islands raise enough money to help fund after-school programs throughout the entire territory.
The celebrities, who participated in this year's Celebrity Golf Classic, also spent time conducting baseball and basketball clinics for students in both districts.
This is the 11th year for the Beacon Schools golf tournament, the organization's major fundraiser. Speaking over the weekend, Barry Florence, founder of the local Beacon Schools program, said the goal this year is to raise at least $150,000, or about 35 percent of the organization's yearly budget.
Beacon programs, which are run out of local public schools, serve more than 2,500 students and adults on all three islands. Florence said the programs are based on the needs and characteristics of the local community.
"For example, if we're in a community that is chiefly Hispanic, our programs would incorporate things like English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for students," he said. "Or if a community has a high pregnancy rate, we would offer family planning services."
The organization also provides homework assistance, enrichment programs and various sports activities for both students and their parents.
Florence said most of the celebrities participating in the annual tournaments are lured by the beauty of the territory, and the opportunity to get involved with education in the Virgin Islands.
Outside of participating in the golf classic, a few of the sports stars ventured out on their own, making appearances at local schools and community centers to conduct clinics for students.
On Friday, former NBA stars Greg Ballard, Maurice Lucas and Joe Kleine took their expertise to the Mark C. Marin Center at Antilles School to hold a free, open clinic for students interested in perfecting their basketball skills. The trio held practice drills and mini challenges for those who attended.
The mood throughout the morning was upbeat. The six students in attendance got direct, hands-on attention from the basketball giants. Ballard and Kleine also couldn't resist taking part in some of the activities, playing alongside the students in shooting challenges.
At the end of the day, the students triumphed, as Gianni Sprauve was named game champion — prompting high praise and a new nickname from Lucas, the onetime NBA champion with the Portland Trail Blazers.
"You're not Gianni — you're 'G-Money,'" Lucas teased.
On St. Croix, a baseball clinic was also hosted by baseball great Ken Griffey Sr.
The golf tourney kicked off on Friday and ran through Sunday, Florence said. Included in the activities are a silent auction and performances by some of the stars on the teams.
Florence added that the tournament's sponsors — including Mahogany Run Golf Course, the Ritz-Carlton Hotel and American Airlines– have added to the draw of the event.
"Celebrities and sponsors can come and stay at a five-star resort, play at a world-class golf course and have great travel accommodations," he said. "So every year, we have a wonderful event. Everyone is always so supportive of the mission of Beacon Schools, and they know they can come here and have a good time."
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