The Rock-Tenn Company will host its fifth annual Charity Golf Tournament Friday, April 3 at the Demopolis Country Club.

“It’s gotten bigger and better every year,” event organizer Charlie Willie, Safety and Training Coordinator for Rock-Tenn, said.

The tournament is a designed four-man scramble that saw 157 golfers from 39 teams compete in 2008.

While the event has seen considerable success over its first four years, the 2009 version of the annual rite will boast significant alterations.

“We may have a few more prizes,” Willie said. “We’ll have a giveaway for a hole-in-one.”

However, the biggest change will be the event’s start time.

“We’re changing the tee time from afternoon to 9 a.m.,” Willie said of the decision to switch the event from its traditional afternoon start.

“We’re just looking to help folks out where we don’t tie up the whole afternoon or evening. Most everybody seems pleased that we’re starting a little earlier, too.”

The 2008 event started approximately an hour and a half early as organizers were attempting to avoid the forecasted rain that ultimately halted play that afternoon.

“We’re all just looking to have a day of fun golf and raise a lot of money,” Willie said. The event’s registration is $65 per player. Hole sponsorships are available for $400 each. Inquiries can be made to Willie at (334)289-6200 or Chuck Smith at (334) 289-6280.

“Last year we raised probably a little over $20,000 with our golf tournament and we hope to exceed that this year,” Willie said of the funds The Rock-Tenn Company was able to donate to The American Cancer Society thanks to the 2008 scramble.

“It makes you feel good because Rock-Teen is such a big supporter of the community. So many people out there are faced with this disease, it’s good to know we’re able to help out even if it is a small portion.”