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Spring
2008 Edition

On The Cover:
Darly Batey
Man In Motion....

Batey started playing golf at the age of nine at Meadowbrook Country Club in Raleigh, NC. Meadowbrook is a private 9-hole golf course established in 1959 as the only Black Private Country Club in America.

He completed the Golf Professional Training Program (GPTP) in two years, faster than anyone else in Georgia Section history. Now, as a PGA Class A Member he is Head Golf Professional at the Charlie Yates Golf Course at East Lake (GA) and has helped pioneer the way for many other Black golfers to compete in a sport that for the longest time did not allow people of other races. (...read more in the Spring 2008 issue.)

Brandi Seymour
The Golf Channel

As an on-course interviewer and feature host for the Golf Channel (TGC), Seymour has an interesting history and a hopeful future for herself and the game of golf. She has worked at TGC for five years and likes what she sees for African Americans in the game.

Her own story started in the Los Angeles area, where she grew up. In the late 80’s, golf captured the 10-year-old’s heart when a neighbor started a golf program for minority children. "It instantly became my passion," she says.
(...read more in the Spring 2008 issue.)

When you see him play, you may think he has been playing the game for most of his life. However, that isn’t so. A tragic accident eventually led him to golf.

“I was involved in a helicopter crash where I lost the lower half of my left leg,” he recalls. “I remember when I lost my leg, I asked God why. But I didn’t have time to feel sorry for myself. Two weeks later, when I returned home, my mother asked me what I was going to do now. She reminded me that life was not going to wait for me.”

(...read more in the Spring 2008 issue.)

NOMINATE SOMEONE TODAY AND THEY COULD WIN!

DOWNLOAD NOMINATION FORM
Deadline: August 29, 2008

PHOTO CREDIT: PGA of America

On January 18, 2008, the PGA of America held its first "Golf Industry Supplier Diversity Forum" at the PGA Merchandise Show, themed, "The Power of Supplier Diversity in a Global Golf Economy," the forum allowed for interaction by diverse-owned suppliers with Associations, PGA Partners and golf companies.

(L-R) Phil Wilkins-Vice Chairman-National Diversity Solutions Joseph P. Steranka-CEO- The PGA of America Earnie Ellison Jr.-Director of Business & Community Relations D. Mitchell-CEO-National Diversity Solutions and Dennis Skidmore-COO-National Diversity Solutions. (...read the Spring 2008 issue.)

Naomi Mitchell : Jr Champion
(August 12th, 2008) Naomi Mitchell of Virginia Beach may only be 8 years old be she already has a major golf win to her credit.

She recently returned from Pinehurst after one of the biggest tournaments for juniors as Age Group Champion and the US Kids Golf World Championship. She is only the third African Americans to ever win a title, Tiger's niece is one of the others.

Elaine “Pepper” Bolden-Peete

Pepper is a phenomenal Black woman in today’s fast-growing golf industry. She has served as the Executive Director for The First Tee of Jacksonville since 2005. Under her leadership the organization is presently in negotiations for a $2.8 million “Capital Improvement” Learning Center for the Old Brentwood Golf Course in Jacksonville.

Pepper is also the lovely wife of legendary golfing professional Calvin Peete. Growing up in Denver, CO, she knew that one day her life would have a broader purpose. (more in the Spring 2008 issue.)

September 6
2008

The Links At Cottonwoods

Tunica Resorts,
Mississippi

8AM Registration
9AM Shot-Gun Start
3PM Awards Luncheon
9PM VIP Party

For more information visit
www.AssistByKnight.org

Amber Peden

Born and raised in Detroit, Amber says that she feels that her city is always portrayed negatively. “I come from a city where all you see on the news are negative things and where no one really plays golf.” While on her high school swim team, she wasn’t gaining much fulfillment, so she turned to golf. It took her a while to learn the rules but once she did, she quickly caught on.

Now, she has enjoyed a “Hollywood” experience, while participating in a PGA of America (public service announcement) and the former Midnight Golf student is at Kalamazoo College, majoring in chemistry and on the girls’ golf team leading the way for others to follow their dreams. (...read more in the Spring 2008 issue.)

2008 Black Enterprise/Pepsi
Golf & Tennis Challenge

2008 PGA Show Highlights
Jan. 17, 18, 19 -
Orlando, FL
Orange County Convention Center

The African American Golfer's Digest "Diversity Pavilion" encompassed 300 square feet of exhibit space and successfully aided minority exhibitors in participating in this golf trade-only show with over 45,000 attendees.

Show visitors had an opportunity to receive free AAGD tote bags, calendars, attend the official AAGD press conference, meet celebrity guests, AAGD writers, editors and BlackPGA Pros.

Special television interviews of booth exhibitors was conducted onsite by The Golf Channel (in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day) and aired on Golf Central, others included PGA Magazine and Golf For Women and ESPN.

(L) Lawrence (BogeyBoyz) with
Preston Williams, inventor, Club Down golf bag security system.
(L-R) Dara Broadus, Addie Cobb,
John Walton.

Golf Merchants!
Join us at the Show
January 29, 30, 31, 2009

Download the 2009 Marketing Package Here

If you are in the business of golf you won't want to miss this exciting Show!

Author, M. Mikell Johnson

Handy-Tee booth and staff

Bogey Boyz booth and staff

Jamie Reid and Rochelle Smith

AAGD Annual PGA Show
Press Conference

(L-R) Percy Hall, Corey King and
Tour Player, Kevin Hall.

Selina Johnson, Hollywood Golf
Institute with "Tiger's Double"
celebrity impersonator:
Mr. Herme Chua.

Willie Johnson, caddy legend
Alfred "Rabbit" Dyre and
Stan Banks.

"The Twister" Golf Ball Washer. Inventor, Alfonzo Dowe, Sr. (R).

Omarosa Stallworth (L)
LaJean Gould (R)

Celebrity Apprentice,
Omarosa Stallworth chats with
Golf Digest writer, Peete McDaniel
while signing hundreds of autographs for AAGD booth visitors.

Debert Cook (L) and Show visitors with Madam President of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (2nd R). The school is the first HBCU designated by the PGA to offer the PGM program.

Diane Lang and Dr. Angela Stewart Win The
18th Annual Trans Senior Four-Ball Tournament

Diane Lang and her partner Dr. Angela Stewart who returned from Tubac, Arizona as winners of the 18th Annual Trans Senior Four-Ball Tournament, held at Tubac Golf Resort.

"The tournament has a lot of history and it was wonderful to win, said Lang. Both players won the medalist tray and the overall trophy (the silver vases). For final results visit www.WomensTrans.com. (More in the Spring 2008 issue.)

Mertiss "Jay" Thompson

Jay is the teaching professional at Crossroad Golf Course in Bellevue, Washington, author of two golf instruction books and producer of the "Winning Edge" CD-ROM.

Jay's students from across the country continue to testify as to to how his instruction has helped them to relax, have more confidence in their game, learn the rules and watch as their golf score's to come down.

Experience a lesson with him today.

Jay is also available for clinics, golf programs and speaking engagements. Contact: debertcook@aol.com
(...read more in Spring 2008 issue.)

American Legacy Series Debuts Historic Documentary: "Rainbow on the Green" Showcasing Golf Legends and the African American Golfer’s Digest in Nationwide Airing

This historic documentary highlights the contributions

of women and people of color to the sport of golf over the last 112 years. Legendary golfers Charlie Sifford, Lee Elder, Lee Trevino, Renee Powell, Nancy Lopez, PGA Foundation's Earnie Ellison, Publisher, Debert Cook and notable others are featured in the film.

The exciting dodumentary was written and produced by Byron Hunter and Omar Akil and is currently in syndication nationwide as part of the American Legacy Series, a historical documentary television series created by noted actor and director, Tim Reid (WKRP in Cincinnati, Sister Sister, That 70s Show). The American Legacy Series is syndicated to more than 150 US television markets, primarily via ABC Television stations, reaching more than 80-million homes.
(Click Here To View Press Release and Air Date listings)

Keney Links Women's Golf Club	Chicago Women's Golf Club
Ladies golf clubs across the country are enjoying longevity, growing membership and thriving. the Keney Links and Chicago Women's golf clubs are two very remarkable ones that we profile. Each organization has a history of endurance and focus for the future as they aim to keep their torches burning for years to come. (...read more in the Spring 2008 issue.)

Thorpe Is A Big Winner With
Golf4Youth, Inc.

PGA Certified Teaching Professional, Jim Thorpe hosts golf clinics around the country throughout the year, at Golf4Youth in October more than 40 youngsters and adults joined him for lessons.

While there, Thorpe also explained his "Foundations of Golf" and the "Foundations of Life" principles to them.

(Read more in the Winter/January 2008 issue)

Vernoncrest Ladies Golf Club

Penny Williams
Club President

This southern California club is in its 60th year and has the distinction of being the oldest women's golf club west of the Mississippi.
What's their secret? Find this out in the Winter/ January 2008 issue.

Harvey Newton (left) and the Dove Mailing Team enjoyed the winner's circle.

IMPACT Triumphs With Inaugural Celebrity Golf Challenge

Success roared down in Duluth, Georgia, during the first annual tournament that benefited the Impact Youth Development Initiative.

Celebrity guests included Isaac Carree, Garfield Heard, Carl Seldon, Joe Forrest and Author Johnson, Fela and Black Boi 66.

(...more in the Winter/January 2008 issue.)

Paula Pearson Tucker
Selected Among Our "Players Of The Year"

This issue names players whom we see as being the best in the game and our annual selection recognizing this distinctive group with honor:

PGA Tour: Tiger Woods
LPGA and Futures Tour: Paula Pearson-Tucker, Champions Tour: Jim Thorpe
Junior Golfer: Cheyenne Woods

(...read more in the Winter/January 2008 issue.)

Golfer To WATCH!

Steve "The Predator" Monroe

Steve has established himself as one of the nations best Long Drive Champions. His top 10 finish in the 2007 ReMax Long Drive Championship in Mesquite, Nevada, only reinforces his skill and talents.

This Clearwater, Florida, resident is certainly headed for more wins and we predict that Steve will have a good season in 2008.

(...read more in the Winter/January 2008 issue.)

Congratulations
Ulysses "Junior" Bridgeman

The PGA of America has appointed Bridgeman, a former University of Louisville and NBA standout, to serve on the PGA Board of Directors. Bridgeman, 54, one of the most respected restaurant entrepreneurs in the country, will succeed lt. Gen. Normand (Norm) Lezy of Garden Ridge, Texas, and was sworn in at the 92st PGA Annual Meeting, January 16, 2008, at the Orange Country Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The event coincided with the 55th Annual PGA Merchandise Show & Convention.

(...read more in the Winter 2008 issue.)

Connor Graham

"LOVE AT FIRST PUTT"

While on a family vacation in Hilton Head, South Carolina, a life changing experience happened to five-year-old Connor that would change her families dynamic forever...she discover the game of golf.

Now, the game has propelled them all to greater heights in every aspect of life and they have another option for how they spend their 'quality family time.'

She has been names "The Most Improved Golfer" 2006 Georgetown-Horry Chapter. She placed 9th at the All-Stars State Championship at Wescott Plantation Golf Course in Summerville, SC, and has won several medals from Mutual of Omaha Drive, Chip and Putt Competitions.
(...read more in the Fall 2007 issue.)

Edward S. Wanambwa
Senior Editor

contact Ed Wanambwa at Golf_Writer@comcast.net

"The Last Colored Caddy"

This phenominal documentary is narriated by Edward Wanambwa and the film should be part of every personal library and educational institution.

It has received top honors and reviews and was selected by Martha's Vineyard African-American Film Festival for a four-day showing in August 2006. The fun-filled retreat is dedicated to showcasing and honoring the works of independent and established filmmakers and touted as the hottest African-American film festival in the country.

To View film clip CLICK HERE

Dr. Anthony C. Griffin
star of the hit reality television series
“Extreme Makeover”

If you happen to be playing golf in Los Angeles at the Country Club or Rancho Park courses, chances are you’ll run into Dr. Anthony C. Griffin, star of the hit reality television series “Extreme Makeover” and pioneer in the field of African American and ethnic plastic surgery.

The world-renowned plastic surgeon plays with an 8 handicap and has taken lessons from legends like Ben Doyle, Mac O’Grady and Eddie Merrins. Despite having a flourishing Beverly Hills practice that attracts celebrities and others from around the world, Griffin, 46, still finds time to play a few times a week and work with coach Bobby Laskin on consistent iron play.
(...read more in the Summer 2007 issue.)

Mr. Lindsey Mason, III is a friendly champion golfer. He serves as head golf pro for the new course and welcomes your groups and tournaments.

www.GreaterGrace.org

Greater Grace Temple Purchases
Detroit Golf Course

The City of Detroit recently sold the WM ROGELL golf course to the famed Greater Grace Temple church in Detroit. The 6, 5000 member Pentecostal church is headed by Bishop Charles H. Ellis, III.

The public course has been renamed the “New” Rogell Golf Course and is located at 18601 Berg Road (the northwest section of Detroit), just around the corner from the church. This golfing gem is now open for your golfing pleasure and being upgraded to make it better than ever.

The course is a par 70, (5,828 yardage)
18 holes with open space on the front 9 and water hazards on the back 9.
(...more in the Summer 2007 issue.)

PGA of America/Disabled Sports USA
Military Golf Program

For 91 years, The PGA of America has made it a mission to promote the game of golf and elevate the role of the professional. On May 17th the Association took a new step forward to enrich the lives of the nation’s Wounded Warriors.

The PGA of America/Disabled Sports USA Military Golf Program laid the foundation for what officials believe is a new chapter in connecting golf with those who have served this country and paid a major sacrifice. As part of the Association’s initiative, it has joined the America Supports You team, a Department of Defense program that highlights and recognizes citizens’ support for members of the U.S. Armed Services and their families.

(...read more in the Summer 2007 issue.)

Jairus (center) with parents
Jerome and Suzanne

Jairus Gaines
Finding His Heritage and Future in Golf

It was an interview with Tiger Woods and being asked what he expected to do for the next fifty years, that pointed Jerome toward golf. Woods’ response was, “Play golf.” That’s when Jerome bought his son, Jairus, (then 18-months-old) a plastic golf club and started taking him to the public golf course to watch adults play the game.

Last year, Jairus, now seven, placed second in his home state of Maryland, fifth in Virginia, and took first place in Delaware and Pennsylvania. This qualified him to go to the world championships in North Carolina. He also discovered that his fourth cousin, a slave in the 1800, was a caddy and was inducted into the Caddy Hall of Fame.

(...read more in the Summer 2007 issue.)

Fore The Kids Classic

On May 17, The First Tee of Washington, DC, held its annual “For The Kids” classic with special guest and golf legend Calvin Peete in attendance.

(L-R) Jimmy Garvin, President, Langston Legacy Golf Course with Calvin Peete and Certified Instructor, John H. Coleman, USGTF, helped the youth to enjoy the day while providing tips and instruction.

(...read more in the Summer 2007 issue.)