2012 Blueberry Classic Golf Outing is Friday, July 27

The 2012 Blueberry Classic on Friday, July 27 at the Northern Michigan University Golf Course will not be your ordinary golf outing!

Of course it's for a great cause - raising scholarship funds for NMU students who run into unexpected financial challenges - but it's also about having fun, enjoying each other's company in a non-competitive event that's all about celebrating the beautiful U.P. summer, blueberries and a great university!

Designed to attract all types of golfers - social, competitive, intermediate and novice - the Blueberry Classic will feature 18 traditional and not-so-traditional holes. Four-person teams will tee off at noon in a scramble format. Participants are encouraged to arrive early to receive playing tips from local "experts" and stay late to enjoy chair massages and a golf cart regatta. Lunch, snacks on holes and end-of-day appetizers - most with a blueberry theme - and beverages will be provided.

The primary purpose of the Blueberry Classic is to raise scholarship funds for the NMU Student Flexible Aid Fund, a resource for needy students who experience unexpected financial challenges such as medical expenses, day care and car repairs - things not covered by traditional financial aid.

"Each year, a number of NMU students are distracted by situations that place added demands on their already limited finances," said Phyllis Wong, event co-chair. "A golf outing seemed like a fun, relaxing way to generate support that can help students navigate through these temporary hardships and ensure their continued academic success. But this is no ordinary golf outing," said the other co-chair, Joanne Roy.

The event is a new addition to activities held as part of the annual downtown Marquette Blueberry Festival. It will also raise awareness of how the NMU Golf Course, donated to the university in 2009, benefits students on multiple levels.