Sevierville (TN) – The 2nd Annual ELF Mini Golf Tournament is set for December 8, 2009 at Ripley’s Old MacDonald’s Mini Golf in Sevierville. The event, which is a joint project between the Sevierville and Gatlinburg Chambers of Commerce, will raise funds to be used for Dual Enrollment Scholarships at high schools in Sevier County. A small portion of the proceeds will also be used as an “emergency fund” that can cover anything from text books lost in a house fire to scholarship application fees and club dues for good students in need of monetary assistance.

Last year’s event raised over $6,000 for the program and event organizers are hoping to do that well again this year. “As of last year, we knew that the funds would go towards helping our schools but we weren’t exactly sure the best way to do that,” says Erin Moran of the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce. “After meeting with high school counselors from Sevier County schools and the Sevier County Economic Development Council, we learned that there was a real need for additional monies to provide scholarships to students who wanted to participate in the Dual Enrollment programs offered by our high schools and Walters State Community College. It’s a great way for us to directly serve our local students.” Amanda Marr of the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce stated, “What an exciting way to assist our local students and work jointly with our counterparts from Gatlinburg.  We are glad that we can make a difference in the community together.”
 
The Dual Enrollment program allows high school seniors to enroll in college level courses while still in high school and receive credit towards both their high school diploma and college degree at the same time. Typically, these courses cost around $300 each with an additional $200 in books and supplies. Dual enrollment scholarships pay around $200 of the course fee but make it possible for more students to enroll.
 
The ELF Mini Golf Tournament offers both businesses and school groups the opportunity to participate in this fun event with two different tee times throughout the day. Businesses can enter a team of four for only $200 and enjoy a 10am tee time at Ripley’s Old MacDonald’s Mini Golf. Students and teachers can form teams of four for $100 and participate during the 4pm tee time. All teams are encouraged to dress for the holidays in fun costumes. Prizes will be awarded for best dressed team, best individual score, best team score and highest team score.  Refreshments will be provided during the event.
 
To enter a team, call the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce at (865) 436-4178. Hole sponsorships and combination sponsorship / team entry packages are also still available.
 
Thank you to the sponsors of the 2nd Annual ELF Mini Golf Tournament including Ripley’s Old MacDonald’s Mini Golf, The Thomas Group, Collier Restaurant Group, Hank’s Pizza, Knoxville TVA Employees Credit Union and Mountain Rentals of Gatlinburg.