Community News

MACMA 2023 Scholarship Program is now Accepting Applications! All Applications must be received by Monday, July 24th.

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff
Giving back to the community–
for more than a decade, the Media, Audience & Content Marketing Association (MACMA) provides scholarships, to both graduating high school seniors and those already enrolled in institutions of higher education. We are proud to provide deserving students with the opportunity to complete their education and meet their full potential. 

Eligibility- 
Applicants must be a graduating high school senior or current college student who will be enrolled in a college/university program during the 2023-2024 academic year who is a MACMA individual or corporate member, the immediate family of a MACMA member, or an employee of a MACMA sponsoring company (as of 1/1/23). Prior winners are not eligible. Each applicant must complete a current Scholarship Application and essay questions. 

Awards-
A total of 4 scholarship recipients will be selected; two $1,000 awards for high school students and two $1,500 awards for college students.  Winners will be announced the second week in August.

Applying-
To apply, please complete the scholarship application click HERE. 
 
Applications are due no later than Monday, July 24, 2023.

Full information on the MACMA Scholarship program can be found HERE

Questions?  Please contact Abby Murray by email at [email protected]
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RICHARD BROWN, BECOMES THE FIRST GOLFER AND FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN MASTER PGA GOLF PROFESSIONAL TO BE INDUCTED INTO GRAMBLING LEGENDS SPORTS HALL OF FAME

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Grambling, Louisiana — The Grambling Legends Sports Hall Of Fame Committee announces its selection of outstanding individuals to be inducted into the 15th Class. The 2023 Hall Of Fame induction banquet will be held Saturday, July 8th, at the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center on the campus Of Grambling State University, 403 Main St, Grambling, LA.

A variety of nominees were considered for the 2023 class in the categories of player student-athlete, and contributor. Among the inductees is Richard Brown, Master PGA Professional. In May 2018, Brown was the first African American to earn PGA Master professional designation and his induction also makes him the first golfer to ever be inducted into the Grambling Legends Sports Hall Of Fame. Brown serves with the PGA of America in Frisco, Texas in the Education Department, as a faculty member and has been a member of the PGA for 18 years.

Brown is a PGA member of the North Texas Section, who earned PGA Certified Professional status in 2017, and has been recognized as a U.S. Kids Top 50 Junior Instructor. He credits Calvin Peete, Lee Elder, Charlie Sifford, Jim Dent, Ted Rhodes, John Shippen and Bob Johnson for paving the way, allowing him the opportunity of becoming a PGA Professional. Brown III operates the Richard Brown School of Golf, where he offers a full lineup of player development programs for kids and adults.

Master PGA Professional, Richard Brown has been teaching professionally since 1987.

Special recognition will also be given to individuals and teams that have made significant contributions to college Sports at Grambling State HALL OF FAME University, especially during the academic year of 2022-23.

The 2023 Grambling Legends Sports Hall of Fame weekend festivities include a 4:30 p.m. press conference held on Friday, July 7th, at the Eddie G. Robinson Museum: A “meet and greet” with the area’s current and former inductees along with the general public beginning at 5 p.m. in the Doris Robinson Hall of the museum.

The Grambling Legends, Inc. created this event to give honor and recognition to former university student-athletes, administrators and associated contributors, as well as to support Grambling State University and the Eddie G. Robinson Museum. To date, more than ISO outstanding individuals have been inducted into this prestigious group.

The Hall of Fame enshrinement dinner and induction proceeding will begin Saturday, July 8, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., and includes a “Parade of Stars” in addition to captivating video tributes of each inductee.

During the 2023 induction, a group of eleven noteworthy individuals will be added to the scroll of honor. Jason Hatcher, Jesse O’Neal, Jimmie Roe, and Andre Robinson represent the sport of football; Shrieka Evans and Kenneth Sykes represent the sport of basketball; Courtney Duncan and James Thompson represent the sport of baseball; Richard Brown represents the sport of golf. Former assistant football coach and head track coach, Evert Edwin Stevens, and philanthropist Thomas Moorehead will be inducted in the contributor category.

For information about the Grambling Legends Sports Hall of Fame or to secure tickets and/or ads, please contact Dr. Ruby D. Higgins at 318-243-7557 or via email at [email protected].

ABOUT GRAMBLING LEGENDS SPORTS HALL OF FAME

The Grambling Legends Sports Hall of Fame was founded by former Super Bowl MVP Doug Williams, former NFL Pro Bowl MVP James “Shack” Harris and a host of former Grambling greats who say they want to help ensure their alma mater’s most storied athletic accomplishments are remembered into posterity. Grambling State University (GSC) emerged from the desire of African American farmers in rural north Louisiana to educate Black children in the northern and western parts of the state. Today, GSU is still regarded as the place “where everybody is somebody”. The Grambling Legends Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and represents the heritage of accomplished graduates of Grambling State University (GSU).

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Auto Review

2023 Toyota Sequoia: Redesigned

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

The Toyota Sequoia, being a big SUV, has always come standard with a big V8. The just-redesigned Sequoia no longer offers one, but it offers some other things instead, including more power, more towing capability and much better gas mileage.

That’s part of Toyota’s replacement for displacement.

The Sequoia is Toyota’s full-size (three-row) SUV. Like the others in its class — including the Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition — it is based on a full-size truck (the Tundra, in this case) and shares the same basic drivetrain and underlying chassis.

Like the Expedition, which also used to come standard with a V8, the Sequoia comes standard with a turbocharged V6. Unlike the Expedition, the Sequoia’s V6 is efficiently augmented by a mild hybrid system that enables it to use less gas than the Expedition does, while delivering much more standard power (437 horsepower vs. 380 horsepower for the Expedition’s standard engine. A 400-horsepower version is available, but you must buy the more expensive trims to get it).

Prices start at $59,865 for the base trim 2-wheel-drive SR5. Adding 4WD — real 4WD, with a two-speed transfer case and 4WD low-range gearing — bumps the price up to $62,865.

There are also Limited ($66,265), Platinum ($72,465), Capstone ($76,865) and TRD Pro ($77,565) trims. The TRD pro comes standard with 4WD and a plethora of additional equipment, including a locking differential, 18-inch wheels with knobby tires, Fox coil-over shocks with remote oil reservoirs, skid plates and more suspension articulation for additional off-road capability.

What’s new for 2023: The ’23 Sequoia is all-new from the floor pans up.

What’s good: Stronger, more fuel-efficient standard engine than rivals’ optional engines; V6 sounds like a V8; does not force you to tap/swipe to operate most accessories.

What’s not so good: Base price is thousands higher than that of rivals like the Expedition and Tahoe; less total cargo space than others in the class; V6 isn’t a V8.

Under the hood: You may already know that the Tundra, Toyota’s full-size pickup truck, no longer comes standard with or even offers a V8 engine. Accordingly, neither does the new Sequoia, which is closely related to it.

Typically, you get less power and capability from a smaller engine by dint of the fact that they are … smaller. Turbocharging them makes them temporarily bigger when you need more power than they otherwise make. And when you don’t need full power, they use (and “emit”) less gas.

Toyota has taken this one step further by adding a hybrid side to the mix. The new Sequoia’s 3.5-liter V6 thus has the added advantage of not having to make any power at all whenever conditions are such that it’s not needed, as when decelerating, coasting and “idling.”

The end result is hard to critique: 437 total horsepower (vs. 381, previously, from the old Sequoia’s 5.7-liter V8) and 583 foot-pounds of torque, all of the latter on tap at just 2,400 rpm. And a standard 9,500-pound towing capacity.

The Sequoia’s V6 is much less thirsty, too. How about 21 miles per gallon city, 24 mpg highway vs. the previous 13 mpg and 17 mpg?

On the road:  The only way to tell there isn’t a V8 under the hood of the new Sequoia is to pop the hood and have a look. You certainly cannot tell by ear. The sound coming from there is authentically V8 — sans the V8 under there. Toyota has perhaps the best sound-augmentation technology currently available. Drive this rig and hear it for yourself.

Also, feel it. With nearly 600 foot-pounds of torque on tap at a fast idle, the Sequoia lunges forward — when asked to — like a ’60s muscle car powered by a big-block V8. And few of those produced as much torque as this V6 does.

Combine the sound and the fury and it is easy to not miss having a V8.

At the curb: As big (and wide) as it is, the Sequoia — at 208.1 inches long — is slightly shorter than the Expedition (210 inches) and the Tahoe (210.7 inches), but it manages to offer split-the-difference room for cargo behind its third row — 22.5 cubic feet vs. 20.9 cubic feet for the Expedition and 25.5 cubic feet for the Tahoe.

The Tahoe and Expedition do have more total cargo area, however — 122 cubic feet and 104.6 cubic feet, respectively, vs. 86.9 cubic feet in the Sequoia.

The rear liftgate is also minivan-huge; when open, the entirety of the space within is opened up. Toyota also includes a few small but thoughtful items such as a swath of carpet with Velcro tabs you can use to easily secure grocery bags from moving around once you’re rolling.

SR5s come standard with a smaller (8-inch) touch screen; Limited and higher trims get a larger (14-inch) unit. But, again, neither unit requires you to tap and swipe to make everyday adjustments such as increasing or decreasing the volume of the radio, which you can turn up or down by rotating a simple, functionally effective knob. Ditto the gear selector, which isn’t a knob. It’s a lever that you pull back and forward to get the gear you want. Or Park. It’s much more instinctively, intuitively usable than a rotary knob (or buttons).

The rest: If you’d like even more sound to go with the fury, you can also specify a more aggressive-sounding TRD exhaust system as a factory or dealer-installed option.

The bottom line: It’s sad to see V8s being forced off the market. But it’s happy to find out that Toyota’s found a way to help you not miss them.

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Tournaments

INTERSPORT ANNOUNCES MEN’S FIELD FOR THE JOHN SHIPPEN NATIONAL INVITATIONAL PRESENTED BY ROCKET MORTGAGE

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE

Invites Top Black Male Golfers to Compete June 24-25 at Detroit Golf Club; Event to Air on CBS in Advance of the PGA TOUR’s Rocket Mortgage Classic 

The Field Will Compete for an Exemption into the Rocket Mortgage Classic; Final Round Open to Fans; Admission and Parking are Complimentary   

DETROIT (June 8, 2023) – Intersport today announced the men’s field of players committed to compete in the third iteration of THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational presented by Rocket Mortgage. The36-hole stroke-play competition for Black male professional and amateur golfers will be held June 24 – 25 at Detroit Golf Club. A one-hour TV special about THE JOHN SHIPPEN will air nationally on CBS on Sunday, July 2, leading into final-round coverage of the Rocket Mortgage Classic.  

On June 25, fans will be able to check out THE JOHN SHIPPEN in person. Gates open at 9 a.m., and admission and parking will be complementary, with hospitality options available for purchase. For more information on hospitality options please email [email protected]. 

The winner of the event will earn an exemption into the PGA TOUR’s Rocket Mortgage Classic (June 29 – July 2).  Sixteen of the 23 players in the field are SHIPPEN alumni, including defending champion Wyatt Worthington II.  

THE JOHN SHIPPEN, designed to showcase Black amateur and professional golfers, is named after John Shippen, Jr., who was the first American-born golf professional and also the country’s first Black golf professional. Shippen was bestowed PGA of America membership posthumously in 2009. 

To ensure that any financial barriers are removed, THE JOHN SHIPPEN will cover all travel costs (airfare and hotel) for participating players. 

“We’re ecstatic about the tremendous field we have for THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational presented by Rocket Mortgage said Jason Langwell, Executive Vice President of Intersport, Executive Director of THE JOHN SHIPPEN and Executive Director of the Rocket Mortgage Classic.

“Now in its third year, THE JOHN SHIPPEN continues to be a leader in providing opportunities for Black golfers that fundamentally increases diversity in golf on a national scale. We’re excited to welcome fans from the Detroit community and beyond to see the immense talent of these players on display in what will again be a rigorous competition for a spot in Rocket Mortgage Classic.  

The following players have committed to THE JOHN SHIPPEN NATIONAL INVITATIONAL  

PRESENTED BY ROCKET MORTAGE  

Name / Age / Status / College / Current Residence                                                                  

AARON BEVERLY (29) – Professional (Sacramento State) – Vallejo, California 

– 2021 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor  

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– 2022 Charlie Sifford Memorial Exemption (PGA TOUR) 

– 2022 PGA Tour Canada (Mackenzie Tour) member          

JABIR BILAL (38) – Professional (Grambling State University) – Stockton, California  

– 2021 PGA Georgia Section Championship Winner 
– 2022 PGA National Championship Contestant 

JORDAN BOHANON (27) – Professional (North Carolina Central University) – Tampa, Florida 

– Drive Chip & Putt National Finalist 
– 3 Collegiate Individual Wins 
– NC Central University career scoring average record holder 
– 7 Top Ten APGA Tour Finishes (3 in 2022) 
– Competed in 2022 APGA Tour Bermuda Invitational 
– Top African American finisher at Michigan Open the last 2 years 
– Tied 8th at 2023 US Open Local Qualifying 
– Tied 7th at 2023 APGA Tour Las Vegas 

GARY BULLARD (22) – Amateur (Army West Point, United States Military Academy) – Chantilly, Virginia 

– APGA Deere Run low amateur  

– APGA Craig Ranch low amateur  

– Nassau Invitational T18 (73-74-75), undefeated in match play against Navy 

MARCUS BYRD (26) – Professional (Middle Tennessee State) – Ann Arbor, Michigan  

– 2021 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– 2023 PGA TOUR Honda Classic competitor  

– 2023 PGA TOUR Wells Fargo Championship competitor  

– 2023 Charlie Sifford Memorial Exemption (PGA TOUR) 

– 2020 U.S. Amateur participant                

– 2019 Conference USA Player of the Year  

JEAN-ROMARIC DJEZOU (26) – Professional (Lycée Technique d’Abidjan – Ivory Coast) –  Abidjan, Ivory Coast  

– Number one Professional Golfer in Ivory Coast, West Africa. 
– Member of the Florida Professional Golf Tour  

KEVIN HALL (40) – Professional (The Ohio State University) – Cincinnati, Ohio 

– 2021 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor  

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor  

– 2004 Big Ten Individual Stroke Play Champion                 

– Earned conditional status on the Korn Ferry Tour for the 2018 season 

– Four-time APGA Tour winner    

CHRISTIAN HEAVENS (34) – Professional (Georgetown College) – Scottsdale, Arizona 

– NAIA All American 

– 3x APGA Winner 

– Former PGA Tour Canada Member  

– Won 27 professional events 

– Golf Channel’s Big Break Myrtle Beach Competitor  

MICHAEL HERRERA (25) – Professional (Riverside City College) – Los Angeles, California 

– 2021 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor           

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational runner-up 

– 2023 PGA Tour Farmers Insurance Open competitor  

– Two professional wins                

– Five professional top 5s 
 

JOE HOOKS (30) – Professional (Wayne State University) – Detroit, Michigan 

– 2021 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor           

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– 2020 seven Top 10s on APGA Tour and 4 Top 5s  

– 2022 four Top 10s on APGA Tour 

CHASE JOHNSON (27) – Professional (Kent State University) – Barberton, Ohio              

– 2021 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor           

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– Mid-American Conference Player of the Year 2016 

– U.S. Amateur participant 2016, 2018 

– 2017-2018 All American honorable mention 

– NCAA All-American Honorable Mention 2018 

– PGA Latino America Tour member for 2019 season 

– Korn Ferry Tour member 2020 and 2021 season 
– 2023 APGA Tour member 

WILLIE MACK III (32) – Professional (Bethune-Cookman University) – Flint, Michigan 

– 2021 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor           

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– 2023 Korn Ferry Tour conditional member  

–  Five PGA TOUR starts 

– Four Korn Ferry Tour starts 

– Three PGA TOUR Latino América starts                

– 75 professional wins  

C.M. MIXON (22) – Amateur (University of Louisville) – Bowling Green, Kentucky 
– 2023 PGA Works Collegiate Champion 
– 2022 Robert Trent Jones Amateur Champion 
– 2022 The Players Amateur Champion 
– 2020 ACC Academic Honor Roll 
– 2018 USGA Junior Amateur competitor 

XAVIER PROCTOR (23) – Amateur (Livingstone College) – Shelby, North Carolina 

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– One collegiate win 

– Three college top 5 finishes 

– 2022 CIAA Player of The Year  
– 2022 NCAA Ping D2 All American  
– 2022 Jackson T. Stephens Cup competitor  
– 2023 CIAA Northern Division All-Tournament Team 

QUINN RILEY (22) – Professional (Duke University) – Minneapolis, Minnesota  

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– Three PGA TOUR starts (John Deere Classic, Shriners Children’s Open, Wells Fargo Championship) 

– One collegiate win (2022 Stitch Intercollegiate Championship) 

– Three collegiate Top 10s             

– 2022 Ranked #1 APGA Rankings 

– First African American golfer in Duke University program history 

– Stitch intercollegiate champion 
– 6 top 5 finishes on APGA 
– 7 top 10 finishes on APGA 
 

MARCUS SMITH (21) – Amateur (Howard) – Temple Hills, Maryland 

– One collegiate win 

– Two collegiate top 10s 

– IHSA State Champion 2018 
– AJGA UHY Detroit Junior at Forest Lake Champion 2020 
– Top 10 at Mountaineer Invitational 2021 
– T6 at Boilermaker Invitational 2022 
– T5 at APGA Tour @ TPC Deere Run 2022 
– T3 & Low Amateur in the 73rd Illinois Open Championship. 2022 
– T2 at USF-Howard Intercollegiate 2022 
– T3 at Carpet Bagger Intercollegiate 2023 
– T6 at NEC Conference Championship 

KRISTOPHER STILES (20) – Amateur (San Jose State University) – Palmdale, California 

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– Two collegiate top 10s 

– 2021 Academic All-Mountain West and Mountain West Scholar Athlete. 

– 12 top 25’s in collegiate events  
-2022 US Amateur qualifier  
-2022 GCAA All-America Scholar 
-2022 BCGCA All-America Team 

JOEY STILLS (27) – Professional (University of West Florida) – Orlando, Florida 

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– 2023 PGA Tour Latin American Member  
– 2022 Jim Thorpe Invitational Winner 
– 2023 Runner Up APGA Famers Insurance Open  
– 10 top 10s in 2022 APGA Tour Season 

TROY TAYLOR II (23) – Professional (Michigan State) – Westerville, Ohio 

– 2021 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor  

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– One Korn Ferry Tour start 

– One collegiate win 

– Three collegiate top 5s  

– Mr. Ohio Golf 2018 
– Ranked number 1 junior golfer in State of Ohio 2018 
 

ANDREW WALKER (24) – Professional (Michigan State) – Holt, Michigan 

– 2022 APGA Cisco Invitational Champion  

– Two-time Srixon/Cleveland All American Scholar (2018/19, 2019/20) 

– Qualified for the US Amateur at the age of 14; 5th youngest in history at the time and still the youngest African American to ever qualify and play in the US Amateur 

MONTRELE WELLS (40) – Professional (Benedict) – Jacksonville, Florida 

– National Minority Champion Inaugural Adrian Stills Award Recipient  

 
EVERETT WHITEN JR. (22) – Amateur (Howard University) – Chesapeake, Virginia 

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– Two collegiate wins 

– Howard record holder for lowest 18- and 54-hole total                
– 2021-22 All MEAC team  
– 2020-21 All MEAC Team  
– 2021-22 Towson Invitational Medalist 
– 2019-20 Hampton Invitational Medalist 

– 2022 Jackson T. Stephens Cup competitor 

– 2018-19 Big South All Freshmen Team 
 

WYATT WORTHINGTON II (36) – Professional (Methodist University) – Columbus, Ohio 

– 2021 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational competitor 

– 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational winner 

– 2022 PGA TOUR Rocket Mortgage Classic competitor  

– 2023 PGA Championship competitor (Oak Hill)  

– 2022 PGA Championship competitor (Southern Hills) 

– 2016 PGA Championship competitor (Baltusrol)  

– Winner of TPC Las Vegas APGA 2023 

Intersport collaborated with Woods and Watts Effect to launch THE JOHN SHIPPEN as a vehicle to fundamentally increase diversity in golf and to create opportunities for young men and women of color in sports on a national scale.  

A National Invitational committee was formed to help lead the recruitment and evaluation of players. The committee consists of more than a dozen leaders who support the advancement of Black golfers and includes coaches from HBCU schools, leaders from golf’s governing bodies and from men’s and women’s national golf events. The National Invitational committee is responsible for identifying the top Black professional and amateur golfers and recommending that group to the Selection Committee, which includes representatives from Intersport, the PGA TOUR, the LPGA, Woods & Watts Effect, Rocket Mortgage, Meijer and Dow. Any male or female professional or amateur golfer who identifies as Black can also submit their profile to [email protected]. 

“We are looking forward to hosting the men who have accepted our invitation to compete in THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational presented by Rocket Mortgage,” said Sommer Woods, Co-Founder of Woods and Watts Effect, and Tournament Lead for THE JOHN SHIPPEN. “We’re proud that THE JOHN SHIPPEN is able to continue to provide these deserving players the opportunity and resources to compete at the highest level of professional golf and welcome all fans to see these talented golfers in person on Sunday, June 25.  

Defending champion Wyatt Worthington II returns to defend his crown and seeks another start in the Rocket Mortgage Classic. Wyatt used a final round seven-under-par 65 to win the 2022 THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational presented by Rocket Mortgage and secure a berth in his first PGA TOUR event. 

Later this year, THE JOHN SHIPPEN Sports Business Summit will take place to create national awareness and opportunities for high school and college students of color interested in pursuing careers in the business of sports. The summit will take place in person in September in Detroit.  

For updated information on THE JOHN SHIPPEN, please visit www.thejohnshippen.com/and follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@TheJohnShippen) and on Twitter (@TheJShippen). For information about sponsorship opportunities or how to get involved, email [email protected].  

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PAIGE CRAWFORD GOES BACK-TO-BACK, WINS WOMEN’S DIVISION OF THE JOHN SHIPPEN NATIONAL INVITATIONAL

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE

GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan (June 7, 2023) – Paige Crawford of Colorado Springs, Colorado shot a final round one-under-par 71 Wednesday to take home the women’s division of THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational, making her the first player to win two events in THE JOHN SHIPPEN.

Crawford earned an exemption into the Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give (June 15–18) in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as well as an exemption into the Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational (July 19–22) in Midland, Michigan. Crawford must select analumna of THE JOHN SHIPPEN to compete alongside her in the Dow GLBI, which is a two-player team event. Last year’s team of Sadena Parks and Anita Uwadia made the cut and finished T-36.

On her feelings coming down the stretch of the final round and being first two-time winner of THE JOHN SHIPPEN, Crawford said:“It was really fun battling back and forth with her (Anita). THE JOHN SHIPPEN (tournaments) are my favorite tournaments. I really appreciate you giving us opportunities.”

Crawford carded a first round two-over-par 74 and started the final round three shots back of Uwadia, the first-round leader.. Crawford used three final round birdies to propel her to a tournament total of one-over-par 145 and a one-shot victory over Uwadia who shot 71-75—-146.

After winning THE JOHN SHIPPEN Cognizant Cup earlier this year, Crawford is set to compete in her second and third LPGA events this summer and said she is looking forward to taking the lessons learned at the Cognizant Founders Cup as she prepares for the Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give and Dow GLBI.

“(I’m going to take) experience from Founders into Meijer and Dow. The nerves will still be there, I’m sure but I know what to expect and I realize I deserve to be there,” Crawford said.

Later this month, THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational presented by Rocket Mortgage will feature the nation’s top Black men competing in a 36-hole stroke play competition at Detroit Golf Club June 24–25. The winner will once again receive an exemption into the PGA TOUR’s Rocket Mortgage Classic (June 29-July 2).

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Education

The Black Archives of Mid-America Presents The History Of Black Golfers: Unveiling the Legacy

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

The public is invited for an enlightening event as the Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City presents “The History Of Black Golfers.” Delve into the rich history of Black golfers with renowned guest speakers Lane Demas, professor at Central Michigan University and author of the book “Game Of Privilege,” and Coach Willie Burns, Head Coach of Golf at Morehouse College.

Date: June 14
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Venue: Swope Memorial Golf Course, 6900 Swope Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132
Moderator: Adam Orduna of TV Sports

Experience an engaging presentation and an interactive question-and-answer session where you will have the opportunity to hear from experts and gain insights into the significant contributions of Black golfers. Don’t miss the special presentation by Eric Urban, the Urban Historian and Owner of Kansas City Tour Company, which promises to be a highlight of the event.

Additionally, on June 15, join at the Negro Baseball Museum, located at 1616 E 18th Street, Kansas City, MO, another captivating program will start at 5:00 p.m. The event will be moderated by Vic Dyson of KPRT and KPRS. Prepare to be inspired as we delve deeper into the topic with a special presentation and a lively question-and-answer session.

Come and honor the legacy and achievements of Black golfers, shed light on their remarkable stories, and celebrate their invaluable contributions to the sport at this momentous occasion.

For further information and inquiries, please contact Jim Watt at 816-728-1361 or call 816-221-1600.

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African American Golf EXPO & Forum 2023
News

WESTERN GOLF ASSOCIATION, EVANS SCHOLARS FOUNDATION, ANNOUNCED AS SPONSOR FOR 3RD ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN GOLF EXPO & FORUM

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE

Louisville, Ky. – The Western Golf Association (WGA) and Evans Scholars Foundation (ESF) have been announced as a sponsor for the 2023 African American Golf Expo & Forum (AAGEF).

Headquartered in Glenview, Illinois, the WGA works with golf and country clubs across the country to promote, establish and grow youth caddie programs. The organization provides extensive resources to help with caddie recruitment and training, as well as assisting with caddie program operations and serving as advocates on behalf of youth caddies.

The opportunity for students to work as caddies provides numerous benefits, including the ability to earn money, enhance communication skills, build their network, work outdoors and enjoy a flexible schedule. Additionally, caddies may be eligible to apply for the Evans Scholarship, the nation’s largest scholarship program for golf caddies, providing full tuition and housing scholarships to high-achieving youth caddies with financial need.

Currently, there are 1,100 Evans Scholars attending 22 leading universities nationwide, and more than 11,800 caddies have graduated as Evans Scholars. The WGA has managed the Evans Scholarship Program through the ESF since 1930.

The WGA partners with regional golf organizations across the country to support youth caddying efforts, including the Kentucky Golf House and Kentucky Golf Foundation’s youth caddie program. Through the Kentucky Golf Foundation youth caddie program, local students are trained as caddies and work at four area golf courses including Hurstbourne Country Club, Big Spring Country Club’s Big Spring and Harmony Landing Campuses, and Valhalla Golf Club. A group of these caddies will be at the Jim Beatty Invitational Scramble on Sunday, Aug. 20.  

During the AAGEF, the WGA/ESF will host a panel discussion on Monday, Aug. 21, on the opportunities in youth caddying and the Evans Scholarship, which will feature local partners and a recent Evans Scholar graduate.

To learn more, visit the WGA/ESF exhibit at the AAGEF or visit wgaesf.org.

To Register for the EXPO go to https://aagolfexpo.com/register-here

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Checking In

Jackson Park Golf Association Partnership With Advocates Golf Association Empowers Young Golfers For Success

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE

BY JACKSON PARK GOLF ASSOCIATION

Jackson Park Golf Association (JPGA) (https://jpgachicago.com/) partnered with Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour (https://www.apgatour.org/) to host a clinic for 27 children at South Shore Cultural Center Learning Center on Saturday, May 27, 2023 from 12 PM to 5 PM.

Not only was the weather wonderful for a spring day in Chicago, but Lake Michigan proved to be a great backdrop for the clinic!

The clinic encompassed three different teaching sessions, which divided children into age groups (5-8; 9-12, 13-18) and included the following sessions: 1) mental wellness led by Dr. Robyn Jackson, 2) careers in the golf industry, and 3) golf skills led by professional golfers playing on the APGA Tour.

Dr. Robyn A. Jackson is a Family Medicine specialist and teaches in Tinley Park, Illinois. She has been practicing community medicine for 29 years.

Adam Stewart talked to the children about First Green (https://www.thefirstgreen.org/) and showed them how to collect soil samples as part of its environment and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education outreach program. Golf courses are used as environmental learning labs for First Green and JPGA is partnering with them to introduce more children to this fascinating area of science and potential career.

Anthony J. Williams is a local mentor and coach working with children in the Hit It Straight Golf Academy (https://hititstraightgolfacademy.com/). He is an engineer and discussed the mechanics and physics of the golf swing and the equipment.

There were five golfers currently playing on the APGA Tour and they covered driving, chipping, and putting skills with each child receiving one-on-one lessons from the pros. One child said how cool it was to receive golf lessons from a professional golfer that looked like him.

One of the pros was Mulbe Dillard IV and JPGA is proud to continue their sponsorship of him playing in the TPC Deere Run tournament in Silvis, Illinois. In fact, JPGA sponsored a trip to watch the pros play in 2022 and returned again to watch them on Monday, May 29, 2023.

Participants enjoy lunch boxes prepared by Phat Katz Catering, Inc.

Phat Katz Catering, Inc. (https://www.facebook.com/PhatKatzCateringInc/) prepared scrumptious sandwich options of turkey, chicken, or vegetarian with lots of additional snacks in the individual lunch boxes!  

The essay contest was a 500-word essay on “Why it is important to make positive choices in your health, wellness and careers.” The winner, Dylan Ford, received $500; and the runners-up who received $250 were: Alexander Applewhite, Ethan Carver, Caleb Hoskins, Jason Price, and Brandon Walker.  

There were prizes, which included two TV sets, golf club sets from Golf Course Builders Association of America (https://www.gcbaa.org/) Sticks for Kids Program, and a plethora of golfing options!

This youth clinic was an opportunity that allowed two conscientious organizations, APGA and JPGA, to continue their missions of providing exposing and opportunities for African Americans in golf:

The Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) was established in 2010 as a non-profit organization with the mission to bring greater diversity to the game of golf. The APGA Tour Board of Directors work to accomplish this by hosting and operating professional golf tournaments, player development programs, mentoring programs and by introducing the game to inner city young people.

The Jackson Park Golf Association (JPGA) is dedicated to providing values, substantial resources, service, opportunities, and community sustainability. JPGA, through a platform of golf, will identify and provide accessibility, as well as viable and sustainable community resources for the underrepresented and underserved community through accomplished leadership in the multi-billion-dollar golf industry.

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To Be Continued…LIV Tour and PGA Tour Merger

by John Perry
written by John Perry

Growing the game, 
or saving the game,
one things for sure,
it’ll never be the same;

Did Jay get paid,
or did golf get betrayed,
What a pivot and u-turn,
many players don’t like it,
many are confused
and many are concerned;

Just a year ago we were at war,
now it appears we’re planning vacations at the shore,
Hypocritical could be a word for most,
Just when you told us we were the main course,
now we find out we’re just toast;

Did Brooks Koepka’s winning and Phil Mickleson’s strong Masters finish
have anything to do with it?
Or was it the deep, deep, pockets of the Saudis
looking tempting, just a little bit?

This surprise merger is just starting to unfold,
this is just the beginning,
I hope it ends up being a win, win, for all
and not a miscalculated, disastrous ending;

I think by January 2024 we’re going to know a lot,
was Jay Monahan a visionary, or was he not?

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Thursday HSV Council Meeting

by Howard Bankhead
written by Howard Bankhead

Yes, I am honored that my good friend (before he was a councilman, lol), Huntsville City Council President John Meredith, would like to recognize me for my service to the communities in and around the Huntsville metro area. Below is the email I received today from Sarah Powell with the City Council.

I’m sending this to you that if you would like to join me in this honor. If you plan to join us, please let me know soon so that we can confirm a reserved seat for you. I’m looking forward to hearing from you. I know you may not be able to attend, and as Sarah wrote, anyone who can’t attend will be able to watch live on our website, where the meeting will also be archived.

Mr. Bankhead, the agenda will be published tomorrow afternoon, so I can’t send a copy of that, but Council President Meredith will recognize you for some of your more recent accomplishments at the Council Meeting this Thursday. It begins at 5:30, and the presentation will be around 5:45, after which you and your guests are welcome to leave. I would plan to be at City Hall by 5:15 so you can get parked and into the Chamber. Please confirm if you will have any guests so we can ensure we have seats reserved. Anyone who can’t attend will be able to watch live on our website, where the meeting will also be archived.

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James Beatty, Accomplished Businessman, Inducted Into African American Golfers Hall of Fame

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff
AAGHOF Inductee Jim Beatty stands alongside his lovely wife Earlene.

The 19th Annual African American Golfers Hall of Fame Leadership Conference, Golf Skills Camp & Tournament, Reception, Awards Dinner Celebration, Auction, and 13th Annual African American Collegiate & Youth Golfers Hall of Fame took place in Palm Beach County, Florida, from May 25-29, 2023. Organized by Inner City Youth Golfers’, Inc., based in Riviera Beach, Florida, the event celebrates and honors the history and accomplishments of African Americans and other significant supporters who have contributed to the growth of golf since the early 1800s, according to Founder and President Malachi Knowles.

Among the distinguished honorees recognized was accomplished businessman James “Jim” Beatty. Beatty, a seasoned executive serves in a number of prominent roles, including as Executive Editor of African American Golfer’s Digest, CEO of Jim Beatty Golf Ventures, and the Founder/Organizer of the African American Golf Expo & Forum. He also serves as the President of NCS International, a firm based in Omaha, Nebraska, that assists global companies and economic development organizations in creating job opportunities and generating investments. Beatty has over forty years of business experience and said, “The induction into the African American Golfers Hall of Fame is not the culmination of my activities but an affirmation and commitment to keep pursuing change in the golf industry that directly benefits the game and increases opportunities for people of color.”

L-R: Fellow Inductee Renee Fluker, Founder, Midnight Golf Program, Charlene Williams, At-Large Director, Golf Heritage Society, James Beatty, Honoree and his wife Earlene.

Jim Beatty Golf Ventures (JBGV), established in 2018, is an Omaha-based golf promotion and management firm dedicated to developing and organizing golf-related events and forums for unique markets. JBGV’s mission is to highlight the economic impact of golf by showcasing job opportunities, careers, and supply chain prospects. Their activities include tournament planning, executive forums, economic development meetings, and other specialized opportunities to promote the industry and the game of golf.

The African American Golf Expo & Forum, launched in 2020, has attracted over 1,000 attendees thus far. The event, held in Atlanta, GA (2020), Charlotte, NC (2021), and Louisville, KY (2023), has had an economic impact exceeding $1 million. This historic gathering involves the participation of major golf institutions, manufacturers, associations, and organizations, bringing together the golf industry and leaders from the African American golf community.

L-R: Mark Lowry, Mark Lowry, President, National Player Development Foundation and James Beatty, Executive Editor, African American Golfer’s Digest, CEO, Jim Beatty Golf Ventures, and Founder, African American Golf Expo & Forum.

Beyond his contributions to the golf industry, Beatty’s NCS International has successfully completed over 300 projects, earning a solid reputation in corporate site selection, economic development, and business development. His distinguished career spans the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and Africa. With a track record of placing over 30,000 jobs representing more than $3 billion in investment, Beatty has been recognized as one of the top 20 economic development professionals in the United States. His expertise has been featured in the Wall Street Journal and other major business and economic development publications. Additionally, Beatty has authored several books and articles on economic development and site selection.

L-R: Malachi Knowles, Founder, AAGHOF wish Mark Lowry, President, National Player Development Foundation and Michael Cooper, Ph.D., .

Beatty’s commitment to golf and diversity has earned him the title of “Golf Pioneer” by the Global Golf Institute. He has also served on the boards of the NIKE TOUR, Hogan’s Junior Golf Heroes (now the FIRST TEE of OMAHA), and the Golf 20/20 Diversity Task Force. Beatty’s extensive board service includes organizations such as the National YMCA.

An esteemed speaker, Beatty has delivered keynote speeches at notable events, including the National Governors Association, The Aspen Institute, IEDC, American Economic Development Council, National Telecommunications Cooperative, National Rural Electric Cooperative, Appalachian Regional Commission, Southern Economic Developers Association, The National League of Cities, and various state economic development associations.

Beatty’s commitment to community service is evident through his involvement in numerous boards and organizations. He has served as Chairman and President of the Omaha Junior Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Urban League of Nebraska, Chairman of the Durham-Western Heritage Museum, Executive Committee member of the Omaha Chamber of Commerce, Vice-Chairman of the Nebraska Economic Development Commission, Vice Chairman of the United Way of the Midlands, and Vice-Chairman of the Omaha Metro Area Transit Authority.

For his exceptional contributions, Beatty has received numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Nebraska Junior Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame, Omaha Jaycee Hall of Fame, Durham-Western Heritage Hall of Fame, and Urban League of Nebraska Hall of Fame. He has also been honored with the Paul Kersenbrock Humanitarian Award, recognizing his extraordinary dedication and service to others as an alumnus of Doane University. Beatty, a graduate of Doane University in Crete, Nebraska, with a major in mathematics, remains an avid golfer.

The entire AAGHOF 2023 Class of Honorees includes:

Howard Bankhead, Huntsville, Alabama
James R. Beatty, Omaha, Nebraska
Dolores C. Crowley, Cincinnati, Ohio
Bruce Gilmore, Vienna, Virginia
Quincy L. Leonard, Montgomery, Alabama
Mark N. Lowry, Gilbert, Arizona
Jason Malone, Bingham Farms, Michigan
Lindsey Mason, Sterling Height, Michigan
Essie McGhee, Montgomery, Alabama
Demetrius Scott, Detroit, Michigan
Michael A. Smith, Las Vegas, Nevada
Adrian Stills, Pensacola, Florida
Angela Suggs, Tallahassee, Florida
Tiffany Nicole White, Chicago, Illinois

Posthumously
Earl C. “Buddy” Leonhardt, Cincinnati, Ohio

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LIV Golf and PGA Tour Merger: Key Details Revealed

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

The unexpected merger announcement between LIV Golf, the PGA Tour, and the DP World Tour has sent shockwaves throughout the golfing community and beyond. After being fierce rivals since the inception of the Saudi-backed breakaway tour, this dramatic turn of events has caught many by surprise.

PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan expressed his excitement about the “transformational partnership” in a statement addressed to players. Under the newly merged, for-profit entity, Monahan will assume the role of CEO, while Yasir Al-Rumayyan will become the chairman. However, the name of the merged company has not been disclosed yet.

Prize money details have not been announced, but it is expected to be substantial, likely surpassing the amounts offered by both the PGA and LIV Tours. The press release mentioned that the Saudi Arabian state’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) will invest “billions” in the new for-profit company resulting from the merger. The specific formats to be played in future tournaments remain unknown, but the statement mentioned the inclusion of the “team golf concept,” suggesting that certain events may focus on this format. Alternatively, if the LIV and PGA Tours continue as separate entities, the team feature may be retained in the Saudi-started circuit.

Regarding banned players, they will have the opportunity to rejoin the tours, although the details of the reapplication process have not been confirmed yet. The joint statement from the three tours indicated that they would collaboratively establish a fair and objective procedure for players who wish to reapply for membership with the PGA Tour or the DP World Tour after the conclusion of the 2023 season. Therefore, players will likely remain with their respective tours for the remainder of the current year.

The status of the Ryder Cup and the involvement of players affected by the merger remain uncertain. However, if players are allowed to reapply for tours, it is reasonable to assume that they will also be reconsidered for selection in the Ryder Cup if they were previously ineligible.

The PGA Tour will hold a majority control position on the new board, but the exclusive funding will come from the PIF, and the new company will operate as a for-profit entity. While there has been talk of improving the sport for everyone, the reality is that money will inevitably play a significant role in business decisions.

In the immediate future, Jay Monahan is scheduled to travel to Toronto and hold a players-only meeting during the RBC Canadian Open at 9 pm BST. This meeting will likely provide further clarity and information about the merger and its implications.

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