Entertainment

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH STAX CHRISTMAS

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

FEATURING 12 HOLIDAY CLASSICS PERFORMED BY SOUL’S BIGGEST STARS

ncludes the Staple Singers, Isaac Hayes and Booker T. & the M.G.’s, plus Carla Thomas’ previously unreleased rendition of “Blue Christmas”

Unreleased alternate mix of the Otis Redding classic “Merry Christmas Baby”

available to stream/download today

Los Angeles, CA (August 2, 2023) – Stax Records and Craft Recordings announce the release of Stax Christmas, a new 12-track collection of holiday classics and originals from soul music’s biggest stars, including Isaac Hayes, Booker T. & the M.G.’s and the Staple Singers. Arriving September 29th on vinyl, CD, and digitally including hi-res digital formats, Stax Christmas features a handful of rarities, including two previously unreleased recordings: a stunning rendition of the mid-century yuletide staple “Blue Christmas” by Carla Thomas, plus an alternate mix of Otis Redding’s beloved rendition of “Merry Christmas Baby,” which is available to listen to today. In addition, a White color vinyl exclusive is being offered at StaxRecords.com with exciting bundle options including new merchandise and Forever a Music Store (FAMS), a collective of independently Black owned record stores throughout the U.S. will also carry an exclusive Red color vinyl edition.

Founded in 1957, Stax Records rose to become one of the most influential labels in the world, shaping the sound of soul music, placing hundreds of hits on the charts and launching the careers of such genre-defining acts as Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, the Staple Singers and Isaac Hayes. The fiercely independent Memphis label was also known for paving its own way—and the holidays were no exception. Featuring gems from the ’60s and ’70s, Stax Christmas includes reimagined classics, sultry slow jams and seasonal social commentary—all filtered through a soulful lens.

Among the highlights is a previously unreleased recording of “Blue Christmas” by one of the label’s first major stars, Carla Thomas. The song, penned by Billy Hayes and Jay W. Johnson, was most famously recorded by Elvis Presley in 1957. But Thomas, known for hits like “Gee Whiz (Look at His Eyes)” (1960) and “B-A-B-Y” (1966), brings her own charms to this version.

Also making its debut is an alternate mix of Otis Redding’s classic yuletide hit “Merry Christmas Baby.” Written in 1947 by Lou Baxter and Johnny Moore, the R&B holiday staple has been recorded by music’s biggest names—from Chuck Berry and James Brown to Ike & Tina Turner and Bruce Springsteen. Redding’s joyful version, however, remains one of the most popular. This previously unreleased mix is available to listen to today and offers listeners a fresh perspective on the tune, as well as an opportunity to experience Redding’s creative process.

For those who prefer their holidays more naughty than nice, there is a selection of seductive originals, including Isaac Hayes’ romantic “The Mistletoe and Me,” the Mack Rice-penned “Santa Claus Wants Some Lovin’” (performed by blues icon Albert King) and Rufus Thomas’ provocative “I’ll Be Your Santa Baby.” Thomas also makes a family-friendly appearance on “That Makes Christmas Day,” an original duet with his daughter, Carla.

On the other end of the spectrum, the Emotions lament being single for holidays with “What Do the Lonely Do at Christmas?,” while “Who Took the Merry Out of Christmas” finds the Staple Singers reminding listeners about the real meaning of the holiday. More traditional highlights include a swinging instrumental rendition of “Winter Wonderland” from Stax house band Booker T. & the M.G.’s, “White Christmas” by gospel greats the Rance Allen Group and a reflective performance of “It’s Christmas Time Again (The Christmas Song)” by the Temprees.

Click here to pre-order Stax Christmas and go to StaxRecords.com for an exclusive White color vinyl edition.

Stax Christmas Tracklist (Vinyl)

Side A

1.      Merry Christmas Baby (Alternate Mix) – Otis Redding*

2.      Who Took The Merry Out Of Christmas – The Staple Singers

3.      Winter Wonderland (Take 2) – Booker T. & The MG’s

4.      Blue Christmas – Carla Thomas*

5.      The Mistletoe And Me – Isaac Hayes

6.      Santa Claus Wants Some Lovin’ – Albert King

Side B

1.      I’ll Be Your Santa Baby – Rufus Thomas

2.      Season’s Greetings – Cix Bits

3.      White Christmas – The Rance Allen Group

4.      It’s Christmas Time Again (The Christmas Song) – The Temprees

5.      What Do The Lonely Do At Christmas? – The Emotions

6.      That Makes Christmas Day – Rufus & Carla Thomas

*previously unreleased

Stax Christmas Tracklist (CD, digital)

1.      Merry Christmas Baby (Alternate Mix) – Otis Redding*

2.      Who Took The Merry Out Of Christmas – The Staple Singers

3.      Winter Wonderland (Take 2) – Booker T. & The MG’s

4.      Blue Christmas – Carla Thomas*

5.      The Mistletoe And Me – Isaac Hayes

6.      Santa Claus Wants Some Lovin’ – Albert King

7.      I’ll Be Your Santa Baby – Rufus Thomas

8.      Season’s Greetings – Cix Bits

9.      White Christmas – The Rance Allen Group

10.  It’s Christmas Time Again (The Christmas Song) – The Temprees

11.  What Do The Lonely Do At Christmas? – The Emotions

12.  That Makes Christmas Day – Rufus & Carla Thomas

*previously unreleased

About Stax Records:

Stax Records, now owned by Concord, was founded by Jim Stewart in 1957 in Memphis, Tennessee. It rose from a small, family-operated company to become one of the most influential record labels in the world, helping create “The Memphis Sound” and launching the careers of icons such as Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Booker T. & The M.G.’s the Staple Singers, Sam & Dave, Rufus and Carla Thomas, The Bar-Kays, and dozens of other artists who helped change popular culture forever. In all, Stax placed 167 hit songs in the Top 100 in Pop and 243 hits in the Top 100 in R&B.

For more info visit, staxrecords.com and follow on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter. 

About Craft Recordings:

Craft Recordings is home to one of the largest and most essential collections of master recordings and compositions in the world. Its storied repertoire includes landmark releases from icons such as Joan Baez, John Coltrane, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Celia Cruz, Miles Davis, Isaac Hayes, John Lee Hooker, Little Richard, R.E.M., Joan Sebastian, and Traveling Wilburys. Plus, the catalog recordings of celebrated contemporary acts including A Day to Remember, Evanescence, Alison Krauss, Nine Inch Nails, Taking Back Sunday and Violent Femmes, to name just a few. Renowned imprints with catalogs issued under the Craft banner include Fania, Fantasy, Fearless, Musart, Nitro, Panart, Prestige, Riverside, Rounder, Specialty, Stax, Vanguard, Varèse Sarabande, Vee-Jay and Victory, among many others. Craft creates thoughtfully curated packages, with a meticulous devotion to quality and a commitment to preservation—ensuring that these recordings endure for new generations to discover. Craft is also home to the Billie Holiday and Tammy Wynette estates which preserve and protect their respective names, likeness and music through day-to-day legacy management of these cultural trailblazers. 

Craft Recordings is the catalog label team for Concord. For more info, visit CraftRecordings.com and follow on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

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The National Golf Player Development Foundation and GOLFTEC Announce Partnership to Provide Performance Development Services to NGPDF Members

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

GILBERT, AZ: Mark Lowry, Founder and President, located in Gilbert, AZ has announced the
formation of a partnership between the National Golf Player Development Foundation, (“NGPDF”)
and GOLFTEC, Englewood, CO to provide player development services to members of the NGPDF
that are pursuing the development of competitive golf-playing skills.
Mr. Lowry, noted, “The collaboration between the NGPDF and GOLFTEC will allow NGPDF members
to access facilities and instruction through local GOLFTEC stores nationally. The relationship will
provide for access to GOLFTEC’s Game Plans that provide instruction and use of store simulators.
This will help NGPDF members improve their skills training and provide analytics to improve playing,
mental and physical development.
He also noted that “The joint collaboration creates opportunities for:”

  • Building an informed support team (Player, Parent, and Instructor) to assist the development of
    the competitive player
  • Provide the opportunity for members to have access in local stores
  • Access to professional services (golf instruction, equipment fitting, etc.) offered by GOLFTEC

    John A. Williams, SVP of Human Resources for GOLFTEC said, “We are thrilled to embark on this exciting
    partnership with The National Golf Player Development Foundation. Through this collaboration, we aim
    to empower NGPDF members with access to our state-of-the-art facilities and expert Coaches, helping
    them refine their skills and elevate their competitive golf playing abilities.”

    Lowry noted “The relationship with GOLFTEC supports our mission to provide resources and services to
    increase opportunities to develop competitive players from underserved communities. We are
    appreciative of the commitment from GOLFTEC to support our young NGPDF members.”
Mark Lowry

Mark Lowry’s work and success with instituting a player development system was well documented in the mid-90s when, in 1995, he was selected to create and launch the Chicago Public School’s Elementary school golf training program to feed a struggling High School team program.

By 1998, the program began to receive national acclaim as over forty elementary schools were offering after-school golf instruction while simultaneously, Mark expanded the high school golf program with growth from nine of the CPS system’s seventy-three high schools to over thirty who competed and advanced from city competition to producing qualifiers at the regional and state level. In 1998, Lowry joined the new industry initiative, The First Tee, where for 20 years he held positions in senior leadership.

Lowry played a key role in developing the strategies that would guide the development and operations of the organization from a concept to a nationally recognized youth golf development organization. As Vice President of Network Management, Mark oversaw the development and support of the organization’s eight national regions and over 150 network chapters.

These experiences gave rise to the National Golf Player Development Foundation (NGPDF). Lowry says, “The time has come to support the efforts of the players, parents, organizations and institutions that are working to deepen the competitive player pool of players of color. The NGPDF, through its efforts to secure individual, corporate and industry funding resources and developmental partnerships, will identify deserving young players of color and provide support to individuals, programs and institutions that equally share the goal to increase the competitive player pool representing minority communities.”

For more information on NGPDF please contact:
National Golf Player Development Foundation
www.ngpdf.org
(480) 294-3532
[email protected]

NATIONAL GOLF PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION is a Not For Profit 501c3 established to create
funding sources to create additional funding sources to: 1)Support the development of skilled,
competitive male and female golfers of color; 2) Connect aspiring golfers of color with instructors and
development programs in their local community; 3) Assist in connecting competitive golfers of color with
programs and tournaments that will advance their developmental skills at strategic competitive levels
that include junior golf, high school, collegiate and professional and assist with support resources to
educate parents, coaches and instructors involved with the development of competitive golfers of color.
The NGPDF has established both a governance and advisory board.

The mission of the National Golf Player Development Foundation, is, “To provide unprecedented
funding opportunities to programs that provide skill development and playing opportunities to young
people of color and connect them to premier experiences in competitive golf.”

About GOLFTEC
With a global presence of 250+ locations and over two million lessons given every year, GOLFTEC stands
tall as the undisputed leader in golf improvement. For more than 25 years, GOLFTEC’s commitment has
been to help people play better golf. By connecting golfers with expert Coaches and harnessing cutting-edge technology, GOLFTEC crafts personalized improvement plans that provide data-driven feedback
and deliver measurable results for golfers of any skill level.

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Destination Guides USAVideos

Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point: An NYC Gem Designed by Jack Nicklaus

by Jerry Roebuck
written by Jerry Roebuck

Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point in the Bronx, NY, is a New York City Parks-owned golf course. This beautiful 18-hole course designed by Jack Nicholas is easily accessible from I-95 and is the best public course I’ve played in the NY/NJ region.

The fairways are impeccable, the greens beautifully manicured. The views of the Whitestone Bridge and parts of downtown New York City are captivating. The practice facility is high-end with pyramid-stacked Taylor Made golf balls on the range for your unlimited usage.

I absolutely loved the Waterfront Restaurant. The food was amazing (but pricey). The course has a links style design and is not a typical Jack Nicholas design — which is usually target golf. Trump Golf Links is the opposite. The fairways are wide and numerous pot bunkers and dense fescue line the course. If it’s a windy day the wind coming off the East River can be challenging. Overall it’s a fair course with a mix of difficult and easy playable holes.

The green fees are expensive. NYC residents: Monday thu Thursday, $171; weekends $205. Non-residents: Monday thru Thursday, $229; weekends $262. Cart fees are $38 per rider. There are discounts for twilight or sunset play and seniors, juniors, and military receive a slightly discounted rate.

I enjoyed my round at Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point. Without wading into politics the money goes to the City of New York Parks Department so you’re contributing to keeping a great public course available for municipal players to play.

Player Locker
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Tournaments

47th Junior PGA Championships Begin Tuesday at Hot Springs Country Club

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. (July 31, 2023) — Two of golf’s major junior championships return when the 47th Junior PGA Championships tee off at Hot Springs Country Club in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Aug. 1-4.

The four-day, 72-hole event will feature 312 players—156 girls, 156 boys—playing concurrently on the club’s Arlington and Park Courses. The Junior PGA Championships are open to players who are no older than 18 years of age on August 4, and all contestants must have qualified through a PGA Section Championship or have been granted an exemption into the field.

The top female junior golfers will compete for the Patty Berg Trophy. The girls division features five of the top 10 junior players, according to the Rolex AJGA Rankings, highlighted by No. 2 Gianna Clemente, No. 3 Anna Davis (2021 Junior PGA Champion) and No. 4 Yana Wilson.

The top male junior golfers competing for the Jack Nicklaus Trophy feature seven of the top 15 junior players, including No. 2 Jay Leng Jr., No. 4 Blades Brown and No. 6 Nicholas Gross.

Included in the two fields are 114 golfers committed to play at the collegiate level, as well as 17 players from the host South Central PGA Section and 10 Arkansas natives. 

The Junior PGA Championships are where the best in the world get their start. Among previous participants are Tiger Woods, Rose Zhang, Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Lexi Thompson, Yuka Saso, Scottie Scheffler and Inbee Park.

The 2022 Boys Junior PGA Championship saw champion Max Herendeen of Bellevue, Washington, cruise to a five-shot win. In the Girls Junior PGA Championship, No. 6-ranked Kaitlyn Schroeder of Jacksonville, Florida, saved her best for last with a 6-under 66 in the final round to win by two strokes. Herendeen will begin his collegiate golf career this fall at the University of Illinois, while Schroeder just finished her first semester on the golf team at the University of Alabama in the spring.

Players to Watch at the 2023 Junior PGA Championships

Girls Division:

Gianna Clemente – Estero, Florida
Clemente, the No. 2-ranked golfer in the American Junior Golf Association Rankings, made history as the youngest champion (at age 13) in PING Invitational history in 2021 before successfully defending her title in 2022. Last year, the two-time First-Team Rolex Junior All-American became the youngest player to Monday qualify for three straight LPGA Tour events. In 2019, as an 11-year-old, Clemente became the third-youngest player to compete in the U.S. Women’s Amateur. 

Anna Davis – Spring Valley, California
Currently No. 3 in the AJGA Rankings, Davis returns to the field after winning the Girls Junior PGA Championship in 2021. In April 2022, she won the third Augusta National Women’s Amateur at the age of 16, and she was a member of the 2021 U.S. Junior Solheim Cup team. A two-time First-Team Rolex Junior All-American, Davis is verbally committed to Auburn University. 

Yana Wilson – Henderson, Nevada
Wilson, a University of Oregon commit, is currently ranked No. 4 on the AJGA Rankings. A 2021 First-Team Rolex Junior All-American, she has won more than 118 amateur junior golf tournaments, notably the inaugural Mizuho Americas Open in June and the 73rd U.S. Girls’ Junior in 2022.

Boys Division:

Jay Leng Jr. – San Diego, California
Leng, the No. 2-ranked golfer in the boys AJGA Rankings, has won the 2022 PING Invitational and the 2023 Polo Golf Junior Classic. A 2022 First-Team Rolex Junior All-American, he is verbally committed to Stanford University.

Blades Brown – Nashville, Tennessee
The No. 4-ranked golfer in the AJGA Rankings, Brown boasts three AJGA wins in 2023: the AJGA Junior at Canebrake presented by Piedmont Bank, Huntsville.org Junior Championship and Wyndham Invitational presented by Odyssey.

Nicholas Gross – Downington, Pennsylvania
Currently ranked No. 6 on the AJGA Rankings, Gross won the 2023 AJGA Simplify Boys Championship at Carlton Woods. The 2022 First-Team Rolex Junior All-American won the AJGA Junior All-Star Invitational in 2021. 

Players from the South Central PGA Section in the Field (17):

  • Emmerson Doyle, Cabot, Ark.
  • Joe Duke, Benton, Ark.
  • Will Gordon, Hot Springs, Ark.
  • Will Hennessee, Tulsa, Okla.
  • Lisa Herman, Jenks, Okla.
  • Brode Horton, Royal, Ark.
  • Maggie Huett, Hot Springs, Ark.
  • Jaden Johnson, Hot Springs, Ark.
  • Megan Kalapura, Tulsa, Okla.
  • Benton Manly, Tulsa, Okla.
  • Jackson McLaughlin, Little Rock, Ark.
  • Keaton Michael, El Dorado, Ark.
  • Anna Kate Nichols, Little Rock, Ark.
  • Avery Schartz, Wichita, Kan.
  • Emerie Schartz, Wichita, Kan.
  • Presli Webb, Conway, Ark.
  • Asher Whitaker, Wichita, Kan.

For more information about the Junior PGA Championships, visit JuniorPGAChampionship.com and follow on Twitter and Instagram.

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Leaderboard

LEADERBOARD: 34th Annual Tee to Green Golf Tournament

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

(SUBMITTED BY JOHN LOVE)

Friday, Saturday & Sunday – July 28-29-30-2023

Deer Brook Golf Course – Shelby, North Carolina

39 Players

Championship Flight                                         71-79

  1. Richard Degree                                                                                     73-70=143
  2. Robbie Thompson                                                                                71-75=146
  3. Al Wood                                                                                               72-78=150
  4. Yavier Proctor                                                                                      75-77=152
  5. Joe Horn                                                                                               79-76=155
  6. Andre Robinson                                                                                    79-78=157
  7. Alvin Thompson                                                                                   72-86=158
  8. Janine Smith                                                                                         76-81=159
  9. Jewel Love                                                                                            79-84=163
  10. Larry Watkins                                                                                       79-92=171

First Flight                                                        82-101

  1. James Boulware                                                                                   82-80=162
  2. Ron Crockett, Jr.                                                                                   82-81=163
  3. Glenn Ellis                                                                                            82-82=164
  4. Alton Caldwell                                                                                      87-78=165
  5. Donnell Davis                                                                                       84-81=165
  6. James McMullen                                                                                  84-82=166
  7. Dwight “DJ” Witherspoon, Jr.                                                               88-81=169
  8. Heyward Jones                                                                                     88-87=175
  9. Larry Barber                                                                                         83-94=177
  10. Sonny Bailey                                                                                         92-91=183
  11. Mike Webber                                                                                       89-98=187
  12. Joe Moore                                                                                            98-93=191
  13. Will Banks                                                                                            101-95=196

Super Senior 70+                                              75-110

  1. Allen Blackwell                                                                                     77-71=148
  2. George Howell                                                                                     75-79=152
  3. Coley Jeter                                                                                           77-76=153
  4. Tim Harris                                                                                            82-73=155
  5. Eddie Harris                                                                                          81-74=155
  6. Eddie Chambers                                                                                   80-79=159
  7. Randolph Hartgrove                                                                             79-83=162
  8. Hazel Barnes                                                                                        85-79=164
  9. David Taylor                                                                                         87-78=165
  10. Marshall Benson                                                                                   83-83=166
  11. Pink Degree                                                                                          88-84=172
  12. James Bullard                                                                                       86-90=176
  13. James “Chuck” Crockett                                                                        92-91=183
  14. Ray Howell                                                                                           89-97=186
  15. James Bowditch                                                                                   110-103=213
  16. Dock Mangrum, Sr.                                                                               83-WD

Friday Skins

#1        Ray Howell                                           (Birdie)

#4        Joe Moore                                            (Birdie)

#6        Al Wood                                               (HOLE-IN-ONE)

#8        Ron Crockett, Jr.                                   (Birdie)

#11      George Howell                                     (Birdie)

#12      Larry Watkins                                       (Birdie)

#13      Will Banks                                            (Birdie)

#16      Rick Best                                              (Birdie)

Closest to Pin Saturday

#3        Janine Smith

#6        Eddie Harris     

#12      Richard Degree

#14      Joe Horn

Straight Drive Saturday

#13      Eddie Harris

Skins Saturday

#6        Al Wood                                   (Birdie)

#9        Dwight “DJ” Witherspoon, Jr.   (Birdie)

#14      Alton Caldwell                          (Birdie)

#16      Coley Jeter                               (Birdie)

Closest to Pin Sunday

#3        Coley Jeter

#6        Coley Jeter

#12      Coley Jeter

#14      Allen Blackwell

Straight Drive Sunday

#13      Randolph Hartgrove

Skins Sunday

#7        Allen Blackwell                         (Birdie)

#9        Allen Blackwell                         (Birdie)

#14      David Taylor                             (Birdie)

#18      Al Wood                                   (Birdie)

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Celebrating Achievement: Exciting Graduation Day at Texas 9 for Golf Clinic Participants

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff
Gladys Lee
Coach Gladys Lee

Hello all,

I want to thank everyone for your past and present participation in our 6-week golf clinics. 

 Saturday, August 5 will be the conclusion of the sessions that were held on July 1, 8,16, 22, 29th.

Special thanks to Dr. Tony Evans, Keith Coppedge, and the entire staff at the Golf Club of Dallas for providing a home and assistance for developing and introducing Women and Men to the wonderful world of golf.

Current Session #6, Graduation for 12 participants will be held this Saturday at Texas 9, formally The Texas Golf Center under New Management. 

Training will continue at the Golf Club of Dallas for 5 weeks starting August 12 and resume on August 19, 26 and Sept 16, and 23rd. Graduation for that 6-week session will be held at The Texas 9. on Sept. 30th.

Current 6th Week Graduation:

WHAT: 9 Hole Par 3 Scramble 

WHEN: Saturday, August 5th.

WHERE: Texas 9 located at 8940 Creek Run Rd., Fort Worth, Tx  76120

TIME: Tee Time Start 7:00 a.m.

COST: $28.00 (covers golf, green fee and golf cart for 9 holes)

Please RSVP if you plan to attend so that we can offer vacancies to past participants. There is room for only 12 golfers so PLEASE  let me know if you plan to participate this Saturday. 

IMPORTANT NOTE!!

A flyer for the Sept 9th Event at PGA Omni is shown below with details for Par 3, 10 hole short game tournament on PGA Omni Swing and putting contest on the dance floor.  

This event is filling up fast with Pro Duffers and other organizations! To secure your spot it might be wise to sign up ASAP!

Hotel information for the Omni PGA Resort can be made by calling Brandon Lovelette at the Resort. Anyone interested in staying overnight during the September 9th Event can make reservations on their own.

Warm Regards,
Gladys Lee (LPGA Class A Member) 
High School – College & Professional Golf Scout
Hurricane Junior Golf Tour Recruiter
Founder CEO  Roaring Lambs International Jr Golf

Site Director LPGA-USGA Girls Golf / Ft. Worth Dallas West

U.S. Kid’s Certified Golf Coach

Double Goal Positive Coaching Alliance ( PAC )“Lunch Box Golf ” Adult Women’s Golf

www.roaringlambsjrgolf.com

[email protected] 


214-212-9475          Private golf instructions available

MOTTO:   ” Global _Have Clubs will Travel!

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JIM BEATTY, FOUNDER OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN GOLF EXPO AND FORUM ANNOUNCES 3 SPECIAL AWARDS TO BE PRESENTED AT THE EXPO LUNCHEON

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Aug.1, 2023 – Today, Jim Beatty announced the establishment of three awards to be presented at the African American Golf EXPO during the special luncheon on Tuesday, August 22 featuring Dietra Trent, Executive Director of the White House Initiatives on HBCUs. This will serve to culminate the activities being held August 19 -22 in Louisville, KY at the Galt House Hotel.

The Charlene Williams “Volunteer of the Year” award is named after the Chief of Staff of Jim Beatty Golf Ventures. This will be awarded to a person, who as a volunteer has provided exemplary service in generating support for the EXPO locally and nationally.

The African American Golfer’s Digest “Entrepreneur of the Year” award is named in recognition of the efforts of Debert Cook, the founder and publisher of the African American Golfer’s Digest which celebrates its 20th year anniversary this year.  This will be awarded to an individual who has demonstrated the qualities of Innovation, Creativity, Business Success, Growth, Leadership, Vision, Social Impact, Adaptability, Resilience, Ethical Standards, Integrity, Entrepreneurial Spirit, and Passion.

The Jerry Tarde “Courage & Commitment Award” is named for the Editor-in-Chief of Golf Digest and given to a person who has shown courage and commitment in advancing the cause of diversity in the golf industry for people of color.


ABOUT THE AFRICAN AMERICAN GOLF EXPO AND FORUM
The mission of the African American Golf EXPO and Forum is to promote the game, the business, the industry, the careers, and the opportunities in the $102 Billion golf industry to African Americans.


The objectives of the EXPO are to:

  1. Promote economic growth, diversity, and inclusion in golf to African Americans and other underrepresented groups;
  2. Provide a friendly and welcoming environment for golf industry leaders to develop relationships with African Americans who are entrepreneurs, community programmers and golf enthusiasts;
  3. Help grow the industry by featuring subject matter experts in learning forums, seminars and networking opportunities;
  4. Provide support to grassroots organizations involved in teaching and promoting golf to the African American community and other people of color.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER GO TO www.aagolfexpo.com/register-here.  

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100 Black Men of America to Host the Tommy W. Dortch Jr. Celebrity Golf Tournament Benefitting HBCU’S Throughout America

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Atlanta, Georgia (July 31, 2023) — 100 Black Men of America will host their national celebrity golf tournament on Monday, October 23rd, at the Flat Creek Country Club located at 100 Flat Creek Road, Peachtree City, GA, Shotgun Tee time begins at 10:00 a.m. 

Raising money to support the Collegiate 100, The 100 Black Men of America’s golf tournament is hosted by Doug Williams, former NFL player and Super Bowl XXII MVP.  Other invited celebrities include: Dominique Wilkins, former NBA player, and nine-time NBA All-Star; Vernon Maxwell NBA great; Dikembe Mutombo, NBA great; Mike Phillips jazz saxophonist and many more. 

“Since our inception, the 100 Black Men of America has never lost sight of our initial mission of serving underserved African American youth in communities across the country,” once said the late Tommy W. Dortch, Jr., 100 Black Men of America’s past chairman.

Those efforts are evident in our day-to-day operations and planning of events such as the annual celebrity golf tournament. Forming affinity partnerships with individuals and organizations is key to moving its efforts forward as the premier African American-led mentoring organization. The Collegiate 100 are on-campus programs that are designed to engage our student scholars directly by mentoring them with the wealth of knowledge that is the 100 Black Men membership. 

Weekend events include:

Saturday, October 21st– 100 Black Men of America will be hosting a VIP panel discussion and Reception with Doug Williams.  The event will take place from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday, October 22nd– The 100 Black of America will host a VIP Brunch for Sponsors from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Monday, October 23rd– Celebrity Golf Tournament featuring invited Dominique Wilkins, former NBA player, Vernon Maxwell NBA great; Dikembe Mutombo, NBA great; Mike Phillips jazz saxophonist, and many more.  Shotgun tee time begins at 10 a.m. and will occur at The Flat Creek Country Club.

Founded in 1963, the 100 Black Men of America currently serves the community with more than 100 chapters nationally and worldwide.  With a mission to continually elevate our five pillars of service: Mentoring, Education, Health & Wellness, Economic Empowerment, and Leadership, The 100 Black Men of America strives to improve the quality of life within African-American communities.

Please secure your sponsorship or foursomes now by contacting Walter Kirkland at [email protected] or 240.535.3346.

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Profiles

Preserving Golf History: The Significance of Wake Robins GC and Chicago Women’s Golf Club in American Heritage

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

In a heartfelt email message today, Michael Cooper, Senior Regional Golf Engagement Advisor with the USGA, invites people to join him in rediscovering the golf heritage of Black Americans. Michael shares that his longtime friend, Merritt “Red” Blakey, recently showed him a video from 2017 that he had never seen before. The video holds immense sentimental value for Michael and Red, as it takes them back to their golfing days at Pipe O Peace Golf Course on the Southside of Chicago.

Not only did Red share the video with Michael, but he also passed it along to their close friend Aaron Browning. The trio spent their formative years together, working, caddying, and playing golf. Michael reminisces about his shift from caddying to playing and competing, a decision that shaped his golf background and subsequent career.

The video focuses on the Chicago Women’s Golf Club, an organization that played a pivotal role in Michael’s life. Being a proud member of the Bob O Links, he acknowledges the club’s significance in shaping who he is today.

With genuine sincerity, Michael extends an invitation to everyone to spare just six minutes of their busy day to watch the video. He emphasizes that the stories shared in the video go beyond mere golf history; they are a celebration of a legacy that must be cherished and passed down to future generations.

Michael highlights the broader importance of these stories, not only as part of Black history but also as an integral aspect of American history. He credits the great Renee Powell for continually reminding him of this profound perspective.

Michael Cooper, PH.D.

Amidst the fascinating historical connections, Michael reveals another interesting piece of information. He learned that Wake Robins GC, formed in the same year as CWGC (1937), is regarded as the “first” club of its kind, which he finds truly remarkable. Both clubs are celebrating 80 years of existence this year.

Expressing deep gratitude, Michael acknowledges the crucial role played by both clubs and others that followed in preserving the rich golf heritage. He concludes his message by extending thanks to those who have contributed to this legacy, emphasizing the appreciation of thousands who recognize the value of their endeavors.

In the end, Michael’s heartfelt message serves as an earnest call to rediscover and celebrate their shared golfing roots, honoring the past and inspiring future generations to cherish and continue this remarkable journey. Watch the video below to learn more.

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NewsSlider

Famed Black Golfer Ben Davis Honored with Plaque at Rackham Course

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

In a heartwarming ceremony, the city of Huntington Woods paid tribute to the late Ben Davis, unveiling a historic marker at the entrance of Rackham Golf Course on a sunny Friday, July 28 afternoon. The plaque stands as a testament to Davis’s remarkable legacy and his enduring impact on the world of golf.

During a time when racial barriers loomed large in the sport, Ben Davis found solace and acceptance at Rackham Golf Course, one of the few integrated municipal courses in the nation. Despite the prevailing norms that denied African Americans access to private golf clubs, Davis thrived at Rackham, building a remarkable golf career and making a lasting mark in the sport.

In a groundbreaking achievement, Davis became the first Black member of the Michigan Professional Golfers’ Association in 1966, a milestone that paved the way for future generations of golfers of color.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of Lieutenant Governor of Michigan, Garland Gilchrist, who emphasized the significance of honoring those who had broken barriers and forged paths for others. He highlighted how Davis’s journey transcended the confines of the golf course and served as a powerful symbol of progress, opening doors for relationships and connections that were previously hindered by segregation in public accommodations.

Born in Pensacola, Florida, Davis and his family moved to Detroit in 1925, where he attended Northern High School. His golf career began in 1936 at the Pine Crest Driving Range in Ferndale, and in 1952, he started teaching the game at Rackham. Over a distinguished 50-year career, Davis had the privilege of instructing notable figures such as world heavyweight boxing champion Joe Louis and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer Bob Lanier.

One of Davis’s students, Karen Peek, fondly reminisced about her first encounter with Davis during her teenage years. She vividly recalled to the Detroit News his infectious smile and hearty laughter, which left an indelible mark on her life. Under Davis’s tutelage, Peek pursued a career in golf, joining the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) and serving her apprenticeship at Rackham.

Shaun Thomas, Davis’s great-nephew, in an interview with Detroit News expressed his joy at having a historical marker that would stand as a testament to his ancestor’s contributions for generations to come. Thomas acknowledged the challenges Davis faced during an era when not all golf courses and events welcomed African American players. Nevertheless, Davis persevered, becoming Rackham’s head professional in 1968 and making history as the first African American to hold such a position at a municipal golf course in the United States.

Davis’s accomplishments continued to mount, securing the Michigan Senior PGA Championship in 1974 and the U.S. National Senior Tournament in 1979. These remarkable achievements led to his induction into the Michigan Golf Hall of Fame in 1992 and the African American Golfers Hall of Fame in 2012.

Ben Davis’s legacy remains alive and well, leaving an everlasting impact on the golfing community. As players and visitors walk past the historic marker at Rackham Golf Course, they are reminded of a trailblazer who defied racial barriers, enriched lives, and forever changed the face of golf.

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Jewelry

The Taylor Guitars Hawaiian Koa

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

The Taylor Guitars Hawaiian Koa Chrono 44mm watch is a remarkable timepiece that utilizes the finest textured wood, Koa, sourced from Hawaii. The historical significance of Koa wood in Hawaiian culture adds an extra layer of meaning to this product, as it has been used by ancient Hawaiians for various prestigious purposes, such as sculpting images of their gods and constructing outrigger canoes for their kings and queens.

The unique feature of this watch is that it uses Taylor Guitar wood stain, making it a perfect match for fans of Taylor Guitars and music lovers. By incorporating this stain, the watch connects the worlds of music and craftsmanship, appealing to those who have a passion for both. The wood’s natural beauty and rich heritage combined with the expertise of Taylor Guitars create a compelling product that will surely capture the attention of music enthusiasts and those who appreciate finely crafted timepieces.

Additionally, the Taylor Guitars Hawaiian Koa Chrono 44mm watch caters to individuals who prefer a true chronograph movement and a larger watch face. With a chronograph function, this watch allows its wearers to use it as a stopwatch, making it practical for various activities that require precise timing.

The price of $499 positions this watch in the mid-range of luxury watches, offering both quality craftsmanship and a unique story behind its extraordinary materials. For music lovers who want to showcase their passion on a high note, this watch could be the perfect accessory to express their appreciation for music and the art of watchmaking.

The Taylor Guitars Hawaiian Koa wood is not only featured in the Chrono 44mm watch, but it is also used in four other OG (Original Grain) products. The details of these other products are not provided in the given information, but it suggests that the use of this exquisite wood extends to a wider range of Original Grain offerings, giving customers more options to experience the beauty and heritage of Hawaiian Koa in their timepieces.

For those interested in purchasing the Taylor Guitars Hawaiian Koa Chrono 44mm watch or exploring other Original Grain products, they can visit the website https://www.originalgrain.com/.

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SliderTournaments

ORIGINAL TEE GOLF CLASSIC CELEBRATES MLB LEGEND GARY SHEFFIELD: CONTRIBUTES $150,000 to CLEARVIEW FOUNDATION

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff
Wendell Haskins and Gary Sheffield share a laugh at the Original Tee Golf Classic Awards Dinner.

On July 23, 2023, Wendell J. Haskins, Founder of the Original Tee Golf Classic and Consultant to TMRW Sports and TGL (Co-Founded by Tiger Woods & Rory McIlroy), proudly announced that Major League Baseball World Champion Gary Sheffield was honored at this year’s event. Sheffield was recognized for his lifetime commitment to excellence in sports, historical achievements in Major League Baseball, and his advocacy for youth in golf.

Throughout his illustrious career, Sheffield played for various teams, including the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Milwaukee Brewers, San Diego Padres, Florida Marlins, Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, and Detroit Tigers. He held the distinction of being the first and only player in MLB history to record 100 RBIs in a season for five different teams and was an esteemed member of the 500 home run club.

Apart from his remarkable athleticism, Sheffield was an ardent champion of golf and a strong advocate for youth in sports. The 2023 Original Tee Golf Classic presented him with the True Original Award in recognition of his contributions.

Wendell Haskins and Gary Sheffield with HBCU Elite golf competitors of the OTGC.
From Left: Marcus Smith, Jr., Kendall Jackson (both Howard University), Amber Kuykendall (Texas Southern) and Mulbe Dillard (FAMU).

The 2023 Original Tee Golf Classic also saw the introduction of the Inaugural HBCU Elite Invitational, a tournament aimed at raising awareness, promoting diversity, and encouraging youth participation in golf. This event provided aspiring HBCU athletes with an opportunity to compete for a substantial purse.

Wendell J. Haskins, a proud graduate of Hampton University, understood the significance of inclusivity and advancement. Through this tournament, he sought to support golf programs for children of color, fostering a welcoming environment for youngsters to learn and excel in the game of golf.

Haskins is highly regarded for his golf expertise and has been sought after by entertainers and sports figures for his insights and guidance on “all things golf.” He also consults for ARCIS Golf and Live Nation’s Music Forward Foundation. Recently, he also provided his expertise to DJ Khaled for his inaugural “We The Best Foundation” golf tournament.

Haskins was instrumental in securing the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Obama in 2014 for Charlie Sifford, the first African American to play on the PGA Tour and be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. He also was the catalyst to have Lee Elder become the first African American honorary starter at the Masters alongside Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player in 2021.

2023 True Original honoree Gary Sheffield holding his True Original Award at Crystal Springs Resort.

Currently, Haskins has spearheaded an effort to award the Presidential Medal to Renee Powell and her family. Renee’s father, Bill Powell, established and designed Clearview Golf Club in East Canton, Ohio. The course is still the nation’s only African American-designed, owned, operated, and managed golf course. Haskins presented a contribution of $150,000 to support Renee Powell’s Clearview Legacy Foundation for Education, Preservation, and Research, raised from Friends of the OTGC.

The 24th Annual Original Tee Golf Classic, held at the Wild Turkey Crystal Springs Golf Resort in Hamburg, NJ, was a sold-out event. For more information about OTGC, please visit their website: https://originaltee.com or follow them on Instagram: @otgclassic.

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