its first financial boost.

Organisers of the first annual Airport Golf Tournament handed over a cheque for $7,500 to the Allan Vincent Smith Foundation's vice president Mrs. JoCarol Robinson.

And president of the foundation Mr. Martin Smith -- whose son Allan died of AIDS in September, 1991 -- was on hand to witness the "momentous'' occasion.

Yesterday's donation was a joint effort by friends of Allan at the airport, where he worked, and several businesses.

One of the organisers, Mr. Richard Krupp, said 88 golfers braved foul weather last Wednesday to participate in the charity tournament at Castle Harbour.

He also thanked the airlines and those businesses which donated raffle prizes.

Mr. Smith, who since his son's death has shared his experience with those in schools, clubs, and wherever he has been invited to speak, said the money will go toward further educating people about the deadly disease.

"This is a very, very generous contribution. We are most encouraged,'' he said, adding that the donation was to be reported at the foundation's weekly directors meeting last night.

The foundation's mission statement is "to support, educate and advise the people of Bermuda on AIDS and HIV and to prevent their spread through the active distribution and dissemination of materials and information to all groups deemed to be at risk''.

In practical terms, the foundation plans to begin many different services, including education, information services such as newsletters with updated information on scientific developments and conferences, counselling, and a pool of volunteers to carry out these services.

However, the foundation's directors have stressed that their work will be complementary to other services and care-givers.

A trophy, with the names of the number one Shell Bermuda team on it, will be on display in a special cabinet at the airport's departure lounge.

Mr. Smith said he will be discussing with Transport Minister the Hon. Ralph Marshall the possibility of setting up a donation box for the foundation at the airport.

GENEROUS CONTRIBUTION -- The Allan Vincent Smith Foundation yesterday received its first major financial donation. Pictured at the cheque presentation at the Civil Air Terminal's departure area are, from left, mother of the late Allan Smith, Mrs. Betty Smith, Civil Aviation security officer Mr. Brian Flook, the foundation's vice president Mrs. JoCarol Robinson, president Mr. Martin Smith, Airport Golf Tournament organiser Mr. Richard Krupp, and US Immigration Port director Mr. Pat Moore.