Golfers Swing into Action for Sheriff's Fundraiser

Sunny warm weather, enthusiastic golfers, smiling volunteers, good food and prizes made for a fun outing at the Ninth Annual Sheriff Ted Paxton Golf Tournament.

The event Monday was held at  in Cumming and is the sheriff's annual fundraiser benefiting Georgia Sheriffs' Youth Homes.

"Obviously it's been one of the things that I have had a tremendous amount of work with," said Sheriff Paxton. "It's one of those types of things that I've put a lot of effort into because I believe in the program."

Georgia Sheriffs' Youth Homes gives the state's most at-risk children the love, safety, and structure needed to become mature, successful adults. According to its Web site, four additional homes have opened across the state for both boys and girls–providing thousands of disadvantaged youth the opportunity to live normal, positive lives in full-time residential facilities.

"I was fortunate enough to be the president of the youth homes last year–I am the immediate past president now," said Paxton. "We're so grateful and thankful to everybody in the community that supports this program. We have a huge turnout every year for the golf tournament and everybody has a great time."

More than 100 golfers showed up and were treated to complimentary food from  and , along with an opportunity to win prizes.

Capt. Tim House with the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office said proceeds from the event would be about $20,000 in cash and gratuities from local businesses.

Golfers also had the chance to win a number of prizes including a car, golf outings, a pearl necklace, cigars and numerous other door prizes.

This year's event saw a lot of new faces and familiar ones. According to Paxton, the tournament has developed a following throughout the years.

"We have a lot of repeat people here," he said. Every year the same group that's always anxious to be here and help support the youth homes and just enjoy a great day of golfing."