John Smoltz, who spent the bulk of his Hall of Fame career pitching for the Atlanta Braves, signs a golf bag that will be auctioned off for charity. Photo Copyright 2015 Carolyn E. Wright

Charities are a big part of the annual American Century Championship golf tournament at Edgewood Tahoe.

Each year a number of local charities benefit from the event, with checks given when all the fun is over.

This is the second year Vessel Bags will provide personalized custom golf bags for each of the 92 participating celebrities. They will then be auctioned via social media.

All proceeds will benefit the Stowers Institute for medical research, named in honor of James Stowers, founder of American Century Investments. Last year’s auction raised more than $60,000. Public bidding on all celebrity golf bags is online.

Shane Battier, who won two NBA titles with the Miami Heat, is raising money for his charity while playing at the ACC. Photo Copyright 2015 Carolyn E. Wright

Shane Battier, retired NBA player, has set up a fundraiser called Take Charge Save Par. Supporters of the Battier Take Charge Foundation may pledge any amount for each par Battier makes during the three-day tournament. For more information, go online.

The tournament at Edgewood Tahoe in Stateline is Friday-Sunday.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report