Raphael “Ray” Howell of Shelby, NC had his 2nd Hole-In-One on Monday, April 10, 2023, at Woodbridge Golf Links, Kings Mountain, NC on hole #5, 131 yards, using 7 iron Callaway Club and Srixon Golf Ball. He had both Hole-in-One on #5 at Woodbridge Golf Links. His playing partners were (left-to-right) Al Wood, Raphael “Ray” Howell and Curtis “Curt” Wilson.
Tiger Woods has been told to “walk away from golf” after the 15-time major champion was forced to withdraw from last week’s Masters Tournament at Augusta, according to themirror.co.uk
Woods was making just his second appearance of the season, as he continues to compete part-time due to injuries suffered in a car accident two years ago. Heading into the event, it was always expected to be a tough week for Woods thanks to the gruelling test Augusta poses.
And things were made even harder for the 82-time PGA Tour champion, as adverse weather conditions hit the Georgia course on Friday and Saturday, hindering the order of play.
As well as having to play more than 18 holes in one day, the swirling weather and sodden course only added to Woods’ woes. After making the 36-hole cut by a single shot Woods struggled in the torrential conditions on Saturday.
The five-time Masters winner carded two bogeys and two double bogeys across his opening seven holes in round three, as he was spotted limping his way around the iconic Augusta setup. Sitting at nine-over, play was then suspended meaning Woods was required to play a mammoth 27 holes on day four to complete the event.
And this clearly proved too much for the 46-year-old, as his withdrawal from the event was confirmed on Sunday morning. Footage of the 82-time PGA Tour winner’s limp proved damning, and it remains to be seen whether Woods will be able to compete again in 2023.
One man who has called on the 15-time major winner to call it quits for good is American TV presenter Stephen A. Smith. Discussing Woods’ future on First Take, Smith said: “I watched him limping on the course before he bowed out on Sunday, and I was thankful he bowed out.”
Watching the pictures, he added: “Look at that there, it is just sad to see. I think it is time for him to call it quits. I know Phil Mickelson is aged 52, but the bottom line is Phil Mickelson’s body hasn’t been through what Tiger Woods’ body has been through.”
Everybody’s looking at you. They’re wondering what you’re going to do next, because you often surprise them. They don’t know what you’re about to say because you’re never predictable.
So stand up, throw your shoulders back, let them watch and learn a thing or two. As in the new memoir, “I Am Debra Lee” (Legacy Lit Books) by Debra L. Lee, represent.
Back when she was still in grade school, little Debra Lee’s father decided that she would be a lawyer someday – and so she was. Though she often pushed the envelope and was her own person, it was hard to even think of disappointing the Major, a man who always admonished Lee to be a “nice girl.”
Back then, Lee “lived and breathed Black culture,” a feeling she carried through law school and into her first big job at a law firm that “treated its associates well,” and where she instinctively found a mentor who helped her in her niche. Her mentor passed to her a few choice clients, which eventually led Lee to a life-changing introduction to Bob Johnson, who was then the CEO of Black Entertainment Television, or BET.
It was a soul-searching time for Lee. Personally, she’d had a pregnancy she didn’t want, then an abortion and a marriage that failed. Professionally, the law firm she worked for was no longer a good fit. Johnson offered her a job and a title, but it involved a considerable salary cut, which was tough to take.
Still, Lee looked at the long picture and leapt at the opportunity.
The job had its downsides – eternally long hours and an overwhelming work load with no work-life balance whatsoever – but Lee was undaunted. She learned about the industry and about herself. She found her limits, sailed past them, and enjoyed the chance to befriend people whose names pepper the tabloids.
She never seriously considered reaching for the stars until she was named chief operating officer, with a public face to maintain, a reputation to uphold, and a list of things she’d never do.
And then she did one of them…
Readers who are unfamiliar with the whole story of BET and Debra Lee, prepare yourself. “I Am Debra Lee” contains a big ka-boom.
Leading up to that, though, is a treat: the inner mechanics of a media empire are told side-by-side here with the story of a long, exhausting journey and the personal sacrifices it demanded. These are not presented as a burden, however. Instead, Lee holds her tale with a steely grip with no apologies, making sure that she’s clear on the extra work it took being a Black woman in a mostly-man’s world.
There’s not a single ounce of “poor-me” in that. Rather, there’s a series of subtle lessons to accompany the outright advice that Lee scatters about.
And then there’s that ka-boom. Read about it from this first-person point of view, and you won’t be sorry. If you’re ready for an absorbing, fascinating memoir that pulls no punches, “I Am Debra Lee,” a memoir by the woman who became the chairperson of BET Networks, is absolutely worth a look.
Registration for 2023 National Golf Day will close on Monday, April 17th. The event will return to an in-person format in Washington D.C. May 8th-10th. In addition to the legislative visits with Members of Congress on Wednesday, May 10th, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in the Community Service Project (CSP), Keynote Address and Congressional Reception on Tuesday, May 9th. Please visit the American Golf Industry Coalition website for the full schedule of events, locations, and more information. Registrants will receive hotel booking information in their registration confirmation email.
For more information and registration for the 15th edition of National Golf Day visit https://nationaltoday.com/national-golf-day/
The GolfBuddy AIM Quantum rangefinder is an excellent device for golfers who want accurate measurements and reliable performance.
The device has a sleek (size 3.7” x 1.86” x 1.43”), lightweight (5 oz) design that fits comfortably in your hand and is easy to use. The 6x magnification and slope-adjusted distances allow you to get accurate yardages to the pin and other targets on the course.
The AIM technology locks onto your target quickly and the vibration alert lets you know when you have do so successfully. Impressive battery life, water-resistant, making it a great option for play in all weather conditions. $349.00. Available at golfbuddyamerica.com
It’s disappointing news for Tiger Woods fans everywhere, as the 15-time Major winner, has withdrawn from this year’s Masters tournament due to a reaggravation of his plantar fasciitis foot injury. Woods, who expressed disappointment in having to withdraw, thanked the fans and The Masters for their support. The Masters released a statement confirming Woods’ withdrawal after he completed seven holes of his third round.
A video of Woods limping noticeably at Augusta in cold and wet weather went viral on social media, highlighting his struggles with his injured right leg and foot. Woods had 11 holes left to complete in his third round, followed by another 18 holes in the final round, putting him at the prospect of playing 29 holes on Sunday. He was in last position at nine-over-par when he withdrew.
Woods had a challenging start to his third round, with two bogeys and consecutive double bogeys on the 15th and 16th holes, dropping him to six-over for his first seven holes and +9 for the tournament. Earlier in the day, Woods had equaled the record for most consecutive cuts made at The Masters, with 23 in a row dating back to 1997, showcasing his impressive history at Augusta.
This marks Woods’ second withdrawal from a Major in the last 12 months, as he had previously pulled out of the PGA Championship at Southern Hills in May due to similar circumstances. He had battled bravely to make the cut but ultimately withdrew after a nine-over-par 79 in the third round. As a result, Woods missed the US Open in June before returning to the 150th Open at St Andrews in July, where he missed the cut and had an emotional moment crossing the Swilcan Bridge, potentially for the last time in his playing career.
The heralded golf tournament, The Masters, one of the four majors, needs to go back to its original name — the Augusta National Invitational. It became the Masters in 1939.
Tiger Woods, other big-time golfers, and corporate sponsorships should demand it, Yet, this is highly doubtful. In the current climate, with all the sweeping changes happening in Diversity & Inclusion efforts, it’s only right and just to revert to the original name. Best of all, in this case, it’s a simple and smooth fix.
“The Masters” never felt good —or even sounded good — when you ask Black golfers to weigh in on the name of the tournament. Also, tradition and history substantiate its rooted in slavery, it shouldn’t be preserved and honored.
Augusta National was built on grounds that were once a slave plantation and was the property of a slave owner, according to ramaporampage.org. As the African proverb says, “The ruin of a nation begins in the homes of its people.” According to a 2019 New Yorker piece about the course, it’s believed that enslaved Blacks were housed on the property.
And be honest. When you hear anyone say the Masters, you think of slave masters in the South. There’s nothing else, nothing special. You don’t think of someone mastering the game of golf. When has anyone mastered golf?
The only thing worse than the name of the event is the actual venue itself, Augusta National.
The golf course where it’s held annually held long racist and sexist policies. Augusta National admitted no African American members until 1990 and no women members until 2012. The club long required all caddies to be Black and banned Black golfers from the Masters Tournament until Lee Elder participated in 1975.
This discrimination and exclusion of Black people from the sport of golf is a painful reminder of the systemic racism that has persisted for centuries. The history of Augusta National and the Masters Tournament has long glorified the white hunters while ignoring the struggles and achievements of Black golfers. The African proverb “When you follow in the path of your father, you learn to walk like him” comes to mind, as the institution of slavery has left a dark stain on the history of Augusta National.
Even at dictionary.com, one of the definitions you get for “master” is “owner of a slave.”
So… why is it called the Masters? The Masters was the brainchild of legendary amateur golfer Bobby Jones and investment dealer Clifford Roberts, who co-founded the Augusta National Golf Club in 1933.
When the tournament began, it was called the Augusta National Invitation Tournament. According to the Golf Channel, “Roberts suggested it be called the Masters, a reference to the ‘masters of golf’ who played in it, but Jones thought the name immodest. Roberts finally got his way in 1939.”
It’s time to acknowledge that the name “Masters” has a problematic history, and it’s time for change. It’s important to acknowledge the past and the harmful associations that the name “Masters” carries, and take steps towards a more inclusive and equitable future.
Slavery is a dark reminder of America’s ugly past and the African proverb that says “When you follow in the path of your father, you learn to walk like him.” The institution of slavery has left a dark stain on the history of Augusta National.
AUGUSTA, Ga. — Tiger Woods made the 36-hole cut at the Masters, tying the record for most consecutive cuts made at this famous tournament at 23. Woods has never missed the cut at Augusta National as a professional.
Woods now shares the record with pal Fred Couples and three-time green jacket winner Gary Player.
It took a little help this week for the aging, chronically injured five-time champion to make it into the final two rounds. With 50 players plus ties making the rain-delayed cut, Woods found himself in 51st place when he finished his second round at three-over par. Justin Thomas and Sungjae Im were both still out on the course at two-over par, Woods would need at least one of the two of them to fall to three-over par. Both Thomas and Im bogeyed the 17th hole to fall to three-over, moving Woods to 49th place. Unfortunately, Woods’ good pal Thomas wasn’t able to enjoy helping his friend. Thomas also bogeyed the 18th to finish at four-over and miss the plus-three cut by a single stroke.
Woods did, in fact, miss the cut once at the Masters, as an amateur in 1996. He returned the following year as a pro to torch the field by a record 12 strokes with his historic win in 1997. That year, Woods became the tournament’s youngest champion, a record he still holds. He is also the Masters second-oldest winner, courtesy of his Return to Glory win in 2019 at age 43. Jack Nicklaus won his final Masters at age 46.
Mackenzie Hughes is the only Canadian to make the cut. He followed a disappointing opening round four-over 76 with a three-under par round of 69, and will head to the third round at one-over par. On the 20th anniversary of his 2003 Masters win, Mike Weir missed the cut by a single stroke. The 52-year-old had some things to say to Postmedia about his tee time.
The third round gets underway at 11:30 a.m. with players playing in threesomes and teeing off on both the first and tenth tees.
July 7, 1943 – April 4, 2023
Mr. David S. Donald, Jr., 79, of Greenville, South Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at his residence. Born in Greenville, South Carolina, he was a son to the late David S. Donald, Sr. and Claudia Evelyn “Hattie” Griffin Donald.
Mr. Donald was the husband to Minister Emily Donald for 56 years. He was predeceased by his parents, David S. Donald, Sr. and Claudia Evelyn “Hattie” Griffin Donald.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by one daughter, Wendy (Libbyette) Donald of Houston, TX; two sons, Wendell (Stephanie) Donald of Greer, SC and David S. (Tykeba) Donald, III of Greenville, SC; one sister, Doris (Darren) Haley of Taylors, SC; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral Services: Saturday, April 15, 2023, 1:00pm, at Watkins Garrett & Woods Mortuary, with interment in Greenville Memorial Gardens.
Sympathy cards and condolences may be sent to the family David Samuel Donald, Jr. 1101 Augusta St., Greenville, SC 29605.
The GOALS group at New York City’s Mount Sinai Health System enjoyed their 1st quarter outing of 2023 at Five Iron Golf, a Mid-Town Manhattan venue which hosts high-tech Trackman simulators, access to teaching professionals, practice time, leagues, and more. GOALS, launched in March 2023, is an elite Black male Initiative at Mount Sinai Health System that advocates for career advancement opportunities and equitable resources for its members.
Coordinated by Founding Member Anthony Smalls, the GOALS (Growth in Operations, Administration, Leadership Society) event at Herald Square was enjoyed by 16 participants, all employees of Mount Sinai Health System, who attended at no cost, due to a partnership with the hospital’s Diversity & Inclusion events office.
GOAL Board Representation comprises Deans, Directors, Physicians, and Associate Directors dedicated to change and results. Its members consist of the rising Black Males throughout Mount Sinai’s institution and the core values are networking, fellowship, and mentorship.
“We’re trying to push for change in terms for building opportunity and Black men,” says Smalls who started with Mount Sinai on the academic side 15-years ago in the grants and contracts department, then three years later moved to the finance department. “We want entry level people of color to move up the corporate ladder to achieve senior-level positions with Mount Sinai and we do this by pushing forward their resumes to our Human Resources Department to consider for possible interviews and promotions.”
GOALS also mentors Black and Latino medical students at the hospital and work in connection with other organizations, such as 100 Black Men of New York, for programming. There is also a similar GOALS program at the hospital for women called Black Women Connect. “A ZOOM call follows every outing to gather ideas and comments for growing the GOALS group,” says Smalls, and it appears the the next quarter event will include patronizing a Black-owned business in Harlem.
Smalls enjoys golf but played basketball at the City College of New York (CCNY). He holds a Bachelors Degree in Journalism from CCNY and earned a Masters Degree in Strategic Business Management from Hofstra University.
To learn more about GOALS and their upcoming initiatives visit https://icahn.mssm.edu/about/diversity/friends-of-odysseus/goals
The 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club was marred by a second suspension of play on Friday during the second round, as two pine trees fell near the 17th hole, causing a safety concern for the patrons and players alike.
According to television coverage video, it appeared that at least one tree fell dangerously close to multiple patrons who were seated in the area. Megan Hill, a patron from Manhattan, New York, described the harrowing experience, saying, “I was sitting, looking, waiting for the next group to come up to the tee and it fell maybe 8-10 chairs to our left. I stood up and screamed and thought, ‘Is it going to fall on me? It fell to the left of us and it was so scary. If the wind had been blowing a slightly different direction, we might have got hit.”
Deshey Thomas from Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, who was also in the area, recounted the scene, saying, “Pinecones were hitting us in the back, we turned around and looked up and heard a huge cracking noise and the tree basically crushed 10 chairs that were sitting there. Luckily we got everyone out of there. We were blessed.” Multiple patrons on site confirmed that no one was injured in the incident.
Sylvia Martin, who was attending the tournament with Jodi Streff, both from Frisco, Texas, shared her account of the events, saying, “It fell on my chair. We were sitting under the umbrella because of the pinecones. We were kinda laughing and joking it was raining pinecones and pine needles. All of a sudden, the people behind us were paying attention. We heard cracking. Everyone started running, so we were trying to get over the rope (into the fairway). We had nowhere to go because people were behind us.”
As a result of the safety concerns, play was suspended and an announcement from the clubhouse indicated that thunderstorms with heavy winds and lightning were approaching the area, leading to the decision to halt the tournament temporarily.
The incident served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the importance of prioritizing the safety of all individuals involved in the tournament, including players, caddies, and patrons. Augusta National Golf Club has a history of taking precautionary measures during severe weather conditions to ensure the well-being of everyone on the course.
The Masters Tournament is one of the most prestigious and widely watched golf events in the world, attracting top players from around the globe. Held annually at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, USA, it is known for its lush green fairways, iconic azalea blooms, and challenging course layout. However, weather disruptions have been a common occurrence in the tournament’s history, with play often suspended or delayed due to thunderstorms, lightning, or other hazardous conditions.
Despite the temporary interruption, the organizers of the Masters Tournament are known for their efficient handling of such situations, with the safety of all individuals being their top priority. They closely monitor weather updates and communicate with players and patrons to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to safeguard against any potential risks.
As the suspension of play during the second round of the 2023 Masters Tournament shows, the safety of all individuals involved in the event is paramount. The incident serves as a reminder of the need to prioritize safety over the competitive aspect of the tournament, and Augusta National Golf Club’s proactive approach in suspending play during severe weather conditions demonstrates their commitment to ensuring the well-being of all those on the course. As the weather conditions improve and the course is deemed safe, the tournament is expected to resume, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of the organizers and participants alike.
Society 61 Foundation, a renowned organization in the world of junior golf, is all set to host its highly anticipated Junior Tournament for Boys & Girls, Ages 12-18. The event is scheduled to take place on June 12-14, 2023 at the prestigious Knollwood Country Club, located at 12040 Balboa Blvd., Granada Hills, California.
This two-day stroke play event promises to be an exciting affair, bringing together young golfers from across the region to showcase their skills and compete for top honors. To participate, students must be in grade school, making it a perfect opportunity for budding golfers to test their mettle on the golf course.
One of the many highlights of the tournament is the array of benefits that players can avail. All participants will receive exclusive Swag Bags, packed with goodies to make their experience even more memorable. Champions of the tournament, including the 1st place Boys & Girls, will receive exemptions for the next Society 61 Tournament, giving them a chance to further hone their skills and compete at a higher level.
Live scoring will be available during the tournament, adding to the excitement and competitiveness of the event. In addition, voucher prizes await the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners, adding an extra incentive to perform at their best.
Apart from the golf action, the Junior Tournament will also feature special events to make the experience even more enjoyable. A red carpet event will add a touch of glamour, while a putting contest will test the players’ precision. A best-dressed contest will reward those with impeccable style, and a raffle will offer exciting prizes for the lucky winners.
The Society 61 Junior Tournament promises to be an unforgettable experience for young golfers, providing them with a platform to showcase their talent, compete with their peers, and create lasting memories. So mark your calendars for June 12-14, 2023, and get ready for a thrilling event at the Knollwood Country Club in Granada Hills, California.
For more information and registration visit https://society61.org/s61cup