Page 351 – African American Golfer's Digest

Jessie Banks Foundation 4th Annual Golf & Tennis Outing

by Debert Cook March 18, 2020

written by Debert Cook

The Jessie Banks Foundation is a public, non-profit, organization founded by Sharon Banks-Williams, daughter of the beloved Jessie Banks, in 2002 as a vehicle to perpetuate her memory and service to humankind. The JBF was established as a living tribute to the life of Jessie Banks for the purpose of enhancing the lives of others through empowerment, health awareness, mentoring, counseling, and providing tuition assistance to deserving scholars. Jessie Banks was a woman filled with milk of human kindness. Her generosity, support, and noble spirit touched and assisted the lives of many. In the New York Tri-State area Jessie Banks was known as another “Mother Teresa.” Her encouragement, assistance and support improved the quality of the human condition. She spent her life in service to others! The Jessie Banks Foundation honors her labor and continues to keep her legacy alive by helping on person at a time!

March 18, 2020 0 comment

Health & Wellness News

Coronavirus Safety Tips

by Debert Cook March 17, 2020

written by Debert Cook

MARCH 18, 2020 — The American Red Cross is closely monitoring the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and following the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

We know this is a stressful time and people want to know what they can do right now to protect themselves and their families. That’s why the Red Cross is highlighting some everyday steps that people in the U.S. can take now. In addition, stay informed about what’s happening in your local community and always follow the directions of state and local authorities.

LIMIT THE SPREAD OF GERMS AND PREVENT INFECTION

The Red Cross recommends the following steps to help prevent the spread of germs during this situation:

Stay home if you can and avoid gatherings of more than ten people.
Practice social distancing by keeping a distance of about six feet from others if you must go out in public.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing; throw used tissues in the trash. If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow or sleeve, not your hands.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, computers, phones, keyboards, sinks, toilets, faucets and countertops.
If surfaces are dirty, clean them – use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection. Full information on how to disinfect found here.
Wear a facemask if you are sick. You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office.

According to the CDC, COVID-19 symptoms include fever, shortness of breath and a cough. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure. Call your doctor for medical advice if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop symptoms.

WHO IS AT A HIGHER RISK?

According to the CDC, early information shows that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this virus. This includes older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease.

If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or a serious medical condition, it is extra important for you to take actions to avoid getting sick.

Stay home as much as you can and avoid crowds as much as possible. Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others.

When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.
Stock up on supplies.
- Contact your healthcare provider to ask about obtaining extra necessary medications to have on hand in case there is an outbreak of COVID-19 in your community and you need to stay home for a prolonged period of time.
- If you cannot get extra medications, consider using a mail-order option.
- Be sure you have over-the-counter medicines and medical supplies (tissues, etc.) to treat fever and other symptoms. Most people will be able to recover from COVID-19 at home.
- Have enough household items and groceries on hand so that you will be prepared to stay at home for a period of time.

Full information for those at a higher risk is available here.

FINDING UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION

You can find more information on COVID-19 safety here. For the latest information, please visit the CDC website at cdc.gov/covid19.

If you live outside the United States, health and safety tips can be found through the World Health Organization and by following your local Red Cross or Red Crescent society’s social media channels.

March 17, 2020 0 comment

News Slider

2020 PGA Championship Postponed

by Debert Cook March 17, 2020

written by Debert Cook

Event to be rescheduled for later this summer at TPC Harding Park

PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA (March 17, 2020) – The PGA of America today announced that the 2020 PGA Championship, scheduled for TPC Harding Park in San Francisco from May 11-17, has been postponed.

“Throughout our evaluation process, we have been committed to following the guidance of public health authorities and given the coronavirus shelter-in-place order in effect in San Francisco, postponement is the best decision for all involved,” said PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh.

“This is a reflection of a thoughtful process,” Waugh added. “We are and have been working in concert with Commissioner Jay Monahan and our partners and friends at the PGA TOUR to find an alternative date that works for all. We are all very hopeful for a great outcome.

“We are also in dialogue with Mayor Breed and her team at the City of San Francisco and look forward to hopefully bringing the 2020 PGA Championship to TPC Harding Park at a date this summer when it is once again safe and responsible to do so.”

March 17, 2020 0 comment

Beauty

Replete Skin Care, the luxurious, vegan skin care line

by Debert Cook March 15, 2020

written by Debert Cook

Replete™ is a highly concentrated, vegan skin care line designed to deliver 100% usable nutrients to your skin without any fillers, synthetics or chemicals.

Sort out Seasonal Skincare Issues

Created to restore and repair, the Replete skincare system is a perfect gift to help sort out seasonal skincare issues – such as dry skin and problems caused by a lack of sunlight – providing food for the skin during the winter season. The all-natural ingredients – it is Kosher Parev vegan and free of all chemicals – providing a breathable, defense shield, and building density, collagen, strength and resilience.

So many great product choices

Replete™ is the only luxurious, vegan skin care line that delivers what the skin wants and needs according to the human body’s natural system in relationship to the environment – the system in which we live. Replete™ is truly the healthiest food to feed and nourish your skin. The longer you use Replete, the more youthful and healthy your skin becomes – in true sustainable health. Replete™ is your true youth keeper.

Replete™ is a highly concentrated, vegan skin care line designed to deliver 100% usable nutrients to your skin without any fillers, synthetics or chemicals. One Replete™ product has 30-99% active ingredients, which is significantly more than the current standard that only requires 1% of active ingredients per package. The “more is more” value is true with Replete™.

Replete™ skin care products are 100% natural. We believe that synthetic ingredients are inadequate reproductions of original, natural ingredients that cannot provide the same results. Only authentic, indigenous ingredients have “nature’s intelligence of life purpose” to deliver effective, sustainable results for your skin and bodies.

It is not just a product, it is a way of life, Replete™ is our connectivity to the world.

Annual subscriptions are available that get your Replete Signature Products delivered to your door, when you need them!

Also available are application videos, the Replete™ YouTube channel and inspiration books.

March 15, 2020 0 comment

19th Hole

VENCHI ITALIAN CHOCOLATE CIGARS

by AAGD Staff March 13, 2020

written by AAGD Staff

Venchi’s heritage still produces wrapped-by-hand chocolate cigars with the style and passion that have set them apart for 140 years. Flavors: Nougatine Truffle cigar made from cocoa paste and Piedmont Hazelnuts with caramel flakes and covered with a double layer of chocolate. Aromatic Cocoa cigar made from special cocoa paste full of the characteristically intense toasted aroma covered with a double layer of chocolate. Orange cigar made from milk chocolate paste and cocoa with candied Sicilian orange peel, covered with a double layer of chocolate.

VenchiCigars_300

The process of drawing chocolate cigars is carried out cold. The cigar is an opportunity to taste an original and playful chocolate; it can be cut into slices and shared, or enjoyed after a meal. Cost: $10 +

March 13, 2020 0 comment

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MASTERS Postponed due to Coronavirus, Announces Chairman Fred Ridley

by Debert Cook March 13, 2020

written by Debert Cook

March 13, 2020

MEMORANDUM REGARDING COVID-19

On Wednesday, March 4, we issued a memo stating that our plans to host the Masters Tournament, the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals had not changed. Unfortunately, the ever-increasing risks associated with the widespread Coronavirus COVID-19 have led us to a decision that undoubtedly will be disappointing to many, although I am confident is appropriate under these unique circumstances.

Considering the latest information and expert analysis, we have decided at this time to postpone the Masters Tournament, the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals.

Ultimately, the health and well-being of everyone associated with these events and the citizens of the Augusta community led us to this decision. We hope this postponement puts us in the best position to safely host the Masters Tournament and our amateur events at some later date.

We will continue to work with the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Office of the Governor, the Georgia Department of Public Health, the City of Augusta and all other local authorities. We are grateful to all of these entities for their exceptional efforts and guidance.

We recognize this decision will affect many people, including our loyal patrons. Your patience as we make every effort to communicate effectively and efficiently is appreciated, and we will share any additional information as soon as it becomes available. Updates also will be posted to our website, Masters.com.
As COVID-19 continues to impact the lives of people everywhere, we seek your understanding of this decision and know you share our concern given these trying times. Thank you for your faithful support.

Fred S. Ridley
Chairman

March 13, 2020 0 comment

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Amidst Coronavirus, PGA Tour announces cancellation of The Players Championship and next three events

by Debert Cook March 12, 2020

written by Debert Cook

(March 12, 2020)

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. – The PGA Tour has reversed course and announced the cancellation of The Players as well as the next three events on the schedule because of the coronavirus outbreak.

The decision comes less than 12 hours after Tour commissioner Jay Monahan said that the circuit’s flagship event would continue for the next three rounds but without spectators.

Players were notified via text at about 9:50 p.m. ET Thursday that the tournament had been canceled because of the “rapidly changing situation” regarding COVID-19. In a follow-up text, the Tour said that the next three events were also canceled.

The next tournament on the schedule is the Masters, which is scheduled to begin April 9.

“We have pledged from the start to be responsible, thoughtful and transparent with our decision process,” the Tour said in a statement. “We did everything possible to create a safe environment for our players in order to continue the event through the weekend, and we were endeavoring to give our fans a much-needed respite from the current climate. But at this point – and as the situation continues to rapidly change – the right thing to do for our players and our fans is to pause.”

As recently as 6:45 p.m. Thursday, the Tour had released a detailed operations plan for the next three rounds, including player support services, broadcast notes, parking plans and media availability.

The Players Championship 2020 in Pictures

by Debert Cook March 12, 2020

written by Debert Cook

Photos by John Perry

HV3 sinking par-saving putt on number 18, his ninth hole for the day, for a +1 at the turn.

Cameron Champ on number 11, where he made birdie to go to -3. During 1st round play at The Player's.

Cameron Champ on number 11, where he made birdie to go to -2. During 1st round play at The Players.

Cameron Champ goes to -2 thru 11 holes.

Cameron Champ in route to the 12th tee, at TPC Sawgrass, during Thursday’s opening round.

Cameron Champ en route to the 12th tee, at TPC Sawgrass, during Thursday’s opening round.

Varner coming off the 18th green

Christiaan and his caddie Zack ipon finishing on Number 10.

Christiaan and his caddie Zack upon finishing on Number 10.

Round one at “The Player’s ” found Hideki Matsuyama on top the leaderboard at -9, with Harris English and Christiaan Bezuidenhout tied for second place at -7’s. Three tied at -5 and in a gridlock of players at -4.

Pete McDaniel and John Perry hard at work at The Players Championship media center.

The Players Championship Leaderboard as of 1:35pm on Thursday’s opening round.

L-R Longtime friends Rudy Taylor, Ron Jones, Doug Wiseman, & Reggie Shell take in the action at "Drama Central", on the 17th hole at Sawgrasss during round one of The Player's.

L-R Longtime friends Rudy Taylor, Ron Jones, Doug Wiseman and Reggie Shell take in the action at “Drama Central” on the 17th hole at Sawgrass during Round 1 of The Players Championship.

March 12, 2020 0 comment

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PGA TOUR Statement by Commissioner Jay Monahan, as Coronavirus wreaks havoc on golf and all sports

by Debert Cook March 12, 2020

written by Debert Cook

Media Center at The Players Championship (photo by Pete McDaniel)

Pete McDaniel-circle

By Pete McDaniel

Freelance Writer

(March 12, 2020) Ponte Vedra Beach, Fl. – First the NBA; then the NCAA; now the PGA Tour. The coronavirus is wreaking havoc on sporting event schedules across the spectrum.

On Thursday during the first round of The Players Championship, Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan announced that fans will not be allowed to attend events for at least the next three-and-a-half weeks, beginning with Friday’s round.

“Let me preface my remarks by reinforcing that the health and safety of our players, employees, partners, volunteers, fans and everybody associated with the PGA Tour is our top priority,’’ Monahan said. “I’ve spoken to President Trump this morning, and I spoke to (Fla.) Governor Ron DeSantis a few hours ago as well…To the White House and the Governor’s office have been supportive of the precautionary measures we have taken to this point.

“With that as pretext, at this point and time, PGA Tour events—across all Tours—will currently proceed as scheduled, but will do so without fans. This policy starts with The Players Championship tomorrow and continues through the Valero Texas Open.’’

The announcement came as fans were streaming into the TPC’s Stadium Course awash with bright sunshine and warm temperatures. Players took advantage of soft conditions and a near-windless day with a number of low scores during the early going, including Cameron Champ, who carded eight birdies en route to a four-under-par 68, five shots behind leader Hideki Matsuyama.

Champ’s fine round included several near-misses, a four-putt double bogey at the par-3 eighth hole and another double bogey at the intimidating par-4 18^th hole. Meanwhile, Matsuyama had eight birdies and an eagle with a lone bogey at the par-5 16^th hole.

The lion share of fans were anxiously anticipating the 1:51 tee time of the marquee pairing of World No. 1 Rory McIlroy, No. 2 Jon Rahm and No. 3 Brooks Koepka.

PGA TOUR / THE PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP LEADERBOARD
Date: Mar 12–15, 2020
Course: Players Stadium Course
Purse: $15,000,000

PGA TOUR Statement by Commissioner Jay Monahan

March 12, 2020

Let me preface my remarks by reinforcing that the health and safety of our players, employees, partners, volunteers, fans and everybody associated with the PGA TOUR is our top priority.

I’ve spoken to President Trump this morning, and I spoke to Governor Ron DeSantis a few hours ago as well. Our team is in constant communication with local health authorities in each market in which our tournaments are played, and we are tracking and monitoring the health information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization in addition to the travel advisories provided by the U.S. State Department. Both the White House and the Governor’s office have been and are supportive of the precautionary measures we have taken to this point.

It goes without saying that this is an incredibly fluid and dynamic situation. We have been and are committed to being responsible, thoughtful and transparent with our decision process.

With that as pretext, at this point in time, PGA TOUR events – across all Tours – will currently proceed as scheduled, but will do so without fans. This policy starts at THE PLAYERS Championship tomorrow (Friday) and continues through the Valero Texas Open. It’s important to note, that could change, but for the time being, this decision allows the PGA TOUR, our fans and constituents to plan, prepare and respond as events develop.

Further, the recently announced travel advisories and potential logistical issues associated with players and staff traveling internationally limit our ability to successfully stage the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship. Therefore, we are going to postpone that event and will provide details in the coming weeks on a reschedule as this situation develops.

We will continue THE PLAYERS with essential personnel only, and we will be in direct conversations with those groups (vendors, broadcasters, media, player support groups, essential volunteers) to provide instructions.

This is a difficult situation, one with consequences that impact our players, fans and the communities in which we play. As I said earlier this week, we’ve had a team in place that has been carefully monitoring and assessing the situation and its implications for several weeks. We’ve weighed all the options, and I appreciate the input and collaboration across the TOUR, our industry, our partners and our members that got us to this point. We’ll continue with that collaboration, and I want to thank our fans for supporting the PGA TOUR.

March 12, 2020 0 comment

Jewelry

Ann Liguori’s Hamptons Rope & Golf Collection by Dune Jewelry

by Debert Cook March 12, 2020

written by Debert Cook

March 12, 2020 —Dune Golf Collection (dunejewelry.com/collections/golf-jewelry-accessories) has collaborated with Ann Liguori to features ball markers, divot repair tools, cufflinks, key chain and wine stoppers. Every design is handmade to order in the USA and most can be engraved with a meaningful message. Gift wrapping options also available.

March 12, 2020 0 comment

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World Golf Hall of Fame to Induct Tiger Woods in Class of 2021

by Debert Cook March 11, 2020

written by Debert Cook

Additional Inductees to be announced in the coming days

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (March 11, 2020) – The World Golf Hall of Fame will enshrine 82-time PGA TOUR winner Tiger Woods as part of its Class of 2021. Woods received the news of his impending Induction in the Male Competitor category via phone today from PGA TOUR Commissioner and World Golf Foundation Board Chairman Jay Monahan.

“I am both honored and humbled to be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame,” said Woods. “This past year has been such an incredible journey and the support I’ve received from my family, friends and fans has been overwhelming. This achievement is the ultimate recognition to never give up and keep chasing.”

A winner of 93 worldwide events including a record-tying 82 on the PGA TOUR, Woods is a 15-time Major Champion and a three-time winner of the career Grand Slam. Woods completed the “Tiger Slam” in 2000-01 when he became the first golfer since Bobby Jones to hold all four major championship titles at the same time.

“Tiger has done more for the game of golf than anyone ever thought possible, and his historic feats on the course are only one aspect of his impact,” said Monahan. “His imprint on the game is immeasurable, and his unparalleled legacy is one we look forward to celebrating as he’s inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame next year.”

A two-time champion of THE PLAYERS and the first two-time winner of the FedExCup, Woods has competed on eight Ryder Cup and nine Presidents Cup teams which includes when he served as a playing captain of the victorious U.S. Presidents Cup Team in 2019. He is an 11-time PGA TOUR Player of the Year winner and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019 following his fifth career victory at the Masters.

“The World Golf Hall of Fame is honored to recognize the incredible career of Tiger Woods,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of the World Golf Foundation. “His impact on the game of golf and everyone associated with it will have a lasting effect on generations to come.”

The Class of 2021 is elected by the Hall of Fame’s Selection Committee, which discussed the merits of 10 finalists. The Selection Committee is a 20-member panel co-chaired by Hall of Fame Members Beth Daniel, Nick Price, Annika Sorenstam and Curtis Strange, and includes media representatives and leaders of the major golf organizations.

The finalists were nominated by the Hall of Fame’s Nominating Committee, which vetted every candidate that met the qualifications of the Hall of Fame’s three Induction categories.

Class of 2021 Selection Committee

Hall of Fame Co-Chairs
Beth Daniel
Nick Price
Annika Sorenstam
Curtis Strange

Institutional Seats
World Golf Foundation Board Organizations
Mike Davis, USGA
Will Jones, The Masters
Jay Monahan, PGA TOUR
Keith Pelley, European Tour
Martin Slumbers, The R&A
Seth Waugh, PGA of America
Mike Whan, LPGA

Media
Selected by World Golf Foundation Board
Michael Bamberger, Golf.com
Iain Carter, BBC
Jaime Diaz, Golf Channel
Doug Ferguson, Associated Press
John Hopkins, Global Golf Post UK
Beth Ann Nichols, Golfweek
Ron Sirak, Global Golf Post

At-Large Seats
Selected by World Golf Foundation Board
Peter Bevacqua, NBC Sports Group
Jerry Tarde, Golf Digest/Discovery

***
About World Golf Hall of Fame
The World Golf Hall of Fame celebrates golf and honors the legacies of those who have made it great. The Hall of Fame opened in Pinehurst, N.C. in 1974 where a total of 71 members were inducted before moving to its current location in St. Augustine, Florida in 1998. The World Golf Hall of Fame currently recognizes 160 Members. The Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit institution and is allied with 26 national and international golf organizations, including the European Tour, LPGA, the Masters Tournament, PGA of America, PGA TOUR, The R&A and USGA. To learn more about the World Golf Hall of Fame or to lend support, visit

www.worldgolfhalloffame.org.

March 11, 2020 0 comment

Bookshelf

One Man’s Opinion: Together We Can Do This – Book Review

by Debert Cook March 10, 2020

written by Debert Cook

Reviewed by Otis Windham

Dr. Jesse J. Lewis, Sr. is a well known and a respected icon of the Birmingham (Ala.) community. He has lived through and participated in many of the defining moments in Birmingham and American history. He is a successful businessman and a pillar of his Alabama community. In his ninety-fifth season, he has recently published his third book.

This author recently had the opportunity to review this book and pose questions regarding this latest work: “One Mans Opinion Together We Can Do This.”

Dr. Lewis is a no-nonsense, cut to the chase, type individual. His ability to assess a problem and formulate creative solutions demonstrates the depth of his innate strength and talent.
His tribute to his wife Helen and his family shows his appreciation for those who have ushered him to success in his life journey.

“One Man’s Opinion Together We Can Do This” is a very clear picture of Jesse L. Lewis, the man. He is dedicated to spreading his message of the power of the vote, education, and business ownership as keys to winning the new struggle Blacks now face in America.

He has posed specific challenges and has proposed innovative solutions to improve the fortunes of future generations. For example, Starting our children’s education at the age of three instead of the traditional six years would help bridge the learning and achievement gap between Blacks and the population at large.

His legacy is contained in this work. His knowledge, wisdom, experience and his willingness to share this valuable insight and information is to be admired.

He stresses the importance of mentorship to those desiring to start their own business. More Black-owned business in our community benefits us all in many ways.

This book contains a wealth of historical and statistical information that can be used to motivate and inspire those seeking an upward path as business owners and entrepreneurs.

The foreword by esteemed former mayor of New Orleans and current head of the National Urban League, Marc Morial, gives testament to the role Dr. Lewis has played as a champion of economic empowerment and in chronicling the civil rights movement.

There is a moving dedication to his wife, Helen. They were married sixty-two years and she was and still is his inspiration for many of his life accomplishments.

This book is written in a first person narrative, which is a refreshing and ingenious way to tell one’s story. Those who know Dr. Lewis will get the impression they are having a casual conversation with him as they read this book, but the information presented and the subject matter discussed here are dead serious.

He describes his early life in detail. He was raised by his grandmother along with four other cousins who were all boys near his age and he was the eldest. The family was poor and all members of their household had to contribute to ensuring the livelihood of the family. As the eldest, the expectations for him were great. His grandmother instilled values, provided wisdom, discipline, and, most importantly love, to him and his cousins that are still part of who he is today.

Dr. Lewis has led a remarkable life. Lesser men would have probably quit under such dire circumstances. His life is both a testament to the times he has lived through and to the man he was able to become.

He does not skirt around Racism as a long-standing problem in America and the world. The book states that though Whites have much responsibility to make America a level playing field for all, Blacks also now have the power to change the effects of this reality.

“With the power of the ballot, African Americans would be able to transform the misdeeds of bloodthirsty mobs into the good works of productive citizens.” – Dr. Jesse L. Lewis.

Per Dr. Lewis, the complexion of the problem Blacks now face has changed considerably. Education, Voting, and business ownership are the keys to addressing this new problem.
This book is a memoir and with a message. That message is “Together We Can Do This.”

March 10, 2020 0 comment

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