News

All Access Golf Presents Blacks in Golf

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

blacks in golf-500

In celebration of Black History Month, All Access Golf presents “Blacks In Golf”

African Americans have made major contributions to the game of Golf and still are. The perception of the game does have its merits, but there were those who fought against it and we have to tell their story. We will also be looking to build on their foundation.

If you don’t play golf or have always been interested to learn the game, come learn your history.

Ticket purchase insures a free drink along with the presentation, panel discussion, and networking portion.

Website: www.allaccessgolfllc.com

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: AllAccessGolf

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/blacks-in-golf-tickets-87052816317?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

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Women's Round

Carrie Russell, LPGA, First African American LPGA Teaching and Club Professional Member & First President of the LPGA Teaching and Club Professional Northeast Section

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

February 12, 2020 | BY AAGD STAFF

Many people do not know about this First African American LPGA Teaching and Club Professional Member. Born in 1929, Carrie Russell
earned her LPGA Teaching and Club Professional Class A Member status in 1974. With the experience she gained in the trade, just two years following Russell became the first President of the LPGA Teaching and Club Professional Northeast Section (1976) where she served in the leadership role until 1978.

In the collegiate realm, Russell served as the first golf coach at Delaware State University where from 1972 to 1980 she coached the school’s men’s golf team. Russell was active as a golf instructor at the Dover Air Force Base golf course where she taught youth the game while also serving at Garrisons Lake in Kent County, Delaware, as a teaching professional.

ashaunta epps lpga se section president YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: A Perfect Swing’s CEO/Founder, Ashaunta Epps, elected President for LPGA’s Southeast Section, Only 2nd Black in 44 years

Russell earned a bachelor’s degree from Delaware State University and a master’s degree from West Chester State University. She was the first African American to receive LPGA Master Life Professional Member status, which is the highest honor for LPGA Teaching & Club Professional Membership. Russell died in 2012.

The journey towards Russell’s presidency started in 1976, when Ray Volpe was hired as LPGA Commissioner and the office was moved from Atlanta, Georgia to New York City. At the time, the Teaching Division consisted of a few cardboard boxes and an electric typewriter that were passed down from one National Chairman to another. Volpe decided the Division needed help, so he invited one member from each section to come to New York, where he presented his idea of allowing the Teaching Division to organize and govern itself. The members who were present became the first LPGA Section Presidents and were designated as the “Teaching Committee” They were:

  • Central Section: Scherry Allison
  • Midwest Section: Goldie Bateson
  • Northeast Section: Carrie Russell
  • Southeast Section: Marge Burns
  • Western Section: Joanne Winter

Among the items on the agenda at this meeting were:

  1. Write the Constitution and By-Laws for the Teaching Division
  2. Appont officers for each section
  3. Begin monthly Sectional newletters to members
  4. Implement education seminars in each section
  5. Find all the membres in each section and determine:
    a. Correct address/phone number/current employment information
    b. Current classification and date of eligibility for next classification
    c. Whether members wanted to continue under the new administration and governing laws being put into practice.
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Equipment Review

Mizuno Pro Cart Bag

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

Mizuno Pro Cart Bag-500

The Mizuno Pro Cart Bag is built with soft-touch materials, sturdy zippers, and an assortment of clever storage options – to put you a class apart from the competition.  Lightweight, at just 7 lbs, this bag is available in 2 colors (black or blue) and is packed full of features:

  • 14-Way Top Cuff: 9″, 14-way top cuff for a stand bag.
  • Cart Strap Channel: This channel for the cart strap allows for a secure fit without restricting access to pockets.
  • Magnetic Pocket: Magnetic pocket capable of carrying a range finder or other accessories.
  • Insulated Drink Pouch: Keep drinks or a towel cool all game long.
  • Apparel Pockets: 2 full-length apparel pockets allow for maximum storage.
  • Bottom Grab Handle: A reinforced grab handle incorporated into the bottom of the bag makes lifting easier.
  • Full-length Dividers: Full-length dividers keep clubs from becoming tangled.
  • Insulated Cooler Pocket: Made with drainage holes to keep beverages cool on even the hottest days.
  • Matching Rainhood: Matching rainhood ensures clubs stay dry in wet weather.
  • Metal Accessories Ring: Premium branded accessories ring.
  • Separate Putter Well: Separate putter well for safe, easy storage of your putter.
  • Umbrella Holder
  • Valuables Pocket: Waterproof, lined valuables pocket protects important items.
  • Zip Off Embroidery Panel: Front ball pocket zips off for easy embroidery.

MSRP: $279.99  

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Blog

D&I Preview 2020

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

(L-R) Steve Mona, Executive Director of WE ARE GOLF and Michael Cooper.


(L-R) Steve Mona, Executive Director of WE ARE GOLF and Michael Cooper.

By Michael Cooper

(February 6, 2020) — From July to December 2019, I was part of a nine-person strategic planning committee for the World Golf Foundation (WGF).  The WGF manages WE ARE GOLF, an important coalition of over 50 golf organizations dedicated to advancing the industry.  The planning sessions were led by Greg McLaughlin, CEO of the World Golf Foundation, and Steve Mona, Executive Director of WE ARE GOLF.  In the end, the group recommended structural and operational changes for the WGF.  These changes are still under review by the Board of Directors, but an update of the plan was presented at the recent PGA Merchandise Show, in Orlando.   

At the first planning meeting in July 2019, the golf industry was described as a fragmented collection of nearly 100 independent organizations and agencies (i.e. PGA, USGA, etc).  This fragmentation creates complexities that make golf different than sport industries such as tennis, Major League Baseball, NFL, and others, who have one primary governing organization and a centralized approach.  Currently, the fragmentation, complexities and challenges in golf are limiting growth and sustainability. 

With guidance from an outside facilitator, the planning group acknowledged that WE ARE GOLF was trying to do too much, with too little resources.  Therefore, one of the first recommendations was to streamline activities and focus on initiatives that would have the most impact on growing participation in the game. 

Diversity and inclusion (D&I) emerged as one of the areas of focus, along with federal/state advocacy, and growth of the game initiatives.  It was further recommended that each area of focus be appropriately staffed and funded.  Steve Mona and WE ARE GOLF will oversee operations, with governance by the WGF Board of Directors.  I will continue my involvement with D&I efforts, to which I am honored and grateful.  All great news, but what does it mean? 

It means the current D&I efforts of the World Golf Foundation and WE ARE GOLF will be consolidated and galvanized to accelerate impact across the industry.  That includes the Diversity, Women, and Millennial Task Forces, as well as programs for the disabled.  It also means we actively recruit volunteer leadership committee members and shift into fundraising mode.    

WE ARE GOLF can and will make a difference, but it needs each of the 50+ organizations within the coalition to play along.  All must be committed to increasing D&I, not only for their individual needs, but for the good of the game, and its industry.  Community-based leaders must be included, too, and the ones who participated in the Diversity Roundtable at the 2020 PGA Show validated they are willing, able, and ready to be part of solutions.  Email me at [email protected], and join the movement!

Michael Cooper, PhD.

ABOUT MICHAEL COOPER, PH.D.
Dr. Michael W. Cooper is the former Director of Diversity for the World Golf Foundation/The First Tee and past Assistant Dean/Campus Director for Springfield College-Tampa Bay campus. Contact him at [email protected].

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Golf Trips

Ghana Cultural Tour + AfroFuture VIP Experience!

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

December 24, 2024 –  January 05, 2025

13 days, 12 Nights

Celebrating all things African Culture
ART ~ FOOD ~ MUSIC  ~ LIFE

“Be a part of this exciting adventure to Ghana, the ‘Gold Coast’ city of abundant love.  This trip is packed with great value, and YES, we always provide a flexible payment plan, and non-golfers you are always welcomed.”

Debert Cook
Publisher
African American Golfer’s Digest

BOOK NOW! Make your $750 Deposit TODAY
before this trip sells out!
Call 212-571-6559

[SINGLE SUPPLEMENT $4,990]
[This is a LAND ONLY rate]

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Beautiful hotel accommodations
  • Tours to historic sites
  • VIP Ticket to AfroFuture!
  • Options for golf, spa, hair braiding, custom-made African dresses/suits measured to fit you perfectly

YOUR TOUR INCLUDES ALL THIS:

  • Meet & greet assistance upon arrival and departure
  • Group ground transport for airport transfer and optional select tours
  • 12 nights Hotel accommodations in the indicated properties + day room on day of departure
  • Meals as indicated with Breakfast daily, 12 Dinners
  • Experienced English-speaking tour guide
  •  Admission to listed sites
  •  Bottled water per person during the tour
  • The ‘Exclusively Chic’ AAGD AfroFuture T-Shirt!

*ITINERARY

Fri./December 24 – Day1:

ARRIVAL IN ACCRA AKWAABA!!! * WELCOME TO GHANA!!!

Christmas is a magical season of the year and while there’s truth to the notion that there’s no place like home for the holidays, Ghana offers you the unique experience of how much Christmas is celebrated here. This trip will offer the chance for one of the most unforgettable holidays of a lifetime.

Upon arrival in Accra, you will be welcomed, ushered through immigration and customs and transported in a private air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel in Accra. Check-in at your hotel, relax and prepare for a memorable night of delicious meal and soothing music.

Hotel: Lancaster Hotel, Accra
Meal: Included: Dinner

Sat./December 25 – Day2:  ACCRA

Welcome to the bustling city of Accra which today is a blend of modern-day edifices and colonial day’s structures that give you a feel of a great experience. This 120-year-old city has a number of historical. After breakfast, we set off to tour Accra visiting the following places:

  • Independence Square where you will see the enclosed flame of African Liberation, which was lit by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah in 1961.
  • The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, final resting place of Ghana’s first president Set in attractive gardens, there is an adjoining museum, which contains photos, artifacts and an insight into Dr. Nkrumah’s life.
  • Your day’s visit ends at Jamestown Community-One of Accra’s most historic neighborhoods where history resides on every corner. Best known for its lighthouses (the first of which was constructed in 1875 by the British) as a navigational aid for trading vessels sailing through the Gulf of Guinea. The original structure was ruined but a larger and more improved lighthouse completed in 1921 is still functioning today.
  • Tonight, we will enjoy Accra nightlife as we tastefully dine and enjoy African music at a local restaurant.

Hotel: Lancaster Hotel, Accra
Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

TO BOOK YOUR TRIP CALL (212) 571-6559

 


Ghana-222

Sun./December 26 – Day3:  (AfroFuture)

After breakfast, you will visit the following places: Visit the W.E.B. DuBois former home, now a museum and Center for the study of Pan Africanism · Drive through Flagstaff House, the official residence and administrative offices of the president (Ghana’s Whitehouse).

This afternoon, we will attend the AfroFuture festival with your VIP ticket!  This festival is in its third year and is designed to elevate and highlight the thrilling and thriving millennial talent from and in Africa. The day will feature a festive celebration of our culture in the form of Arts and Fashion Installations, Live painting, the best of African Culture and Live performances. Return to the hotel with beautiful memories of a truly authentic African experience.

Hotel: Lancaster, Accra
Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Golden Tulip Ghana

Lancaster Hotel, Accra, Ghana

Mon./December 27 – Day4:  

ACCRA- KROBO ODUMASE-AKOSOMBO

After a refreshing night and breakfast and check out, we will have a scenic drive to a small village called Krobo Odumase to witness a first-hand experience of beads making from specially crafted glasses- Cedi Beads Factory. We will have the opportunity to design our own beads using the traditional Krobo technique.

The bead-making craft has a long history in Ghana. Beads have been used in ceremonies of birth, coming of age, marriage, or death for the past 400 years. You will watch and participate in the whole bead-making process from beginning to end.

Enjoy a boat cruise on the Volta Lake before returning to Accra.

Hotel: Royal Senchi
Meal(s) lncluded: Breakfast, Dinner

Tue./December 28 – Day5: 

AKOSOMBO-KUMASI

This morning after breakfast and check out, we set off to Kumasi, the seat of the Ashanti Empire to explore the legends of the famous Ashantis, whose legacies are still evident today.

Upon arrival, we enjoy a drive through the city with monuments dedicated to the memory of the great Ashanti people on our way to visit the Okomfo Anokye sword site, an important symbol of Ashanti unity that marks the spot where the golden stool “descended from the sky” and has been in place for 300 years. Legend says the Ashanti kingdom would collapse should the sword ever be removed.

We shall also visit Manhyia Palace, the official residence of Ashanti kings (Asantehene) until 197 4, now a museum containing treasured items relating to the Ashanti Kingdom. This is where we obtain firsthand information on the legacies of this unified monastery.

Transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight

Hotel: Lancaster Hotel, Accra
Meal(s)  Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Wed./December 29 – Day6: 

KUMASI AND ITS VICINITY

After a well-deserving breakfast, we check out of our hotel and travel to Kumasi, the seat of Ashanti empire, where legend is still evident today. At the outskirts of Kumasi, we will visit the Ashanti Craft villages of the surrounding lush countryside as follows:

  • The village of Adanwomase where the famous Kente cloth is handmade on looms in a time-honored tradition passed down through generations. See the Kente weavers in the process of creating Kente cloth in various intricate styles.
  • The village of Ntonso, where artisan’s hand-stamp patterns on cotton cloth to make Adinkra Adinkra textiles are worn for funerals and other solemn occasions. Learn how the black dye is made from the bark of trees, and create your own Adinkra sash to take home.
  • The woodcarving Village Of Ahwiaa, known for the talented craftsmen who fashion royal stools, fertility dolls and other crafts from wood.

Time permitting, drive pass the central market which serves a major marketing center for a number of traders from all over the country.

Return to the hotel for another night

Hotel: Lancaster Hotel, Accra
Meal(s)  Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Thurs./December 30 – Day7: 

KUMASI-ASSIN  MANSO-CAPE COAST

Following a leisure breakfast, we depart to Cape Coast in Ghana’s Central Region.

This region has had the most significant effect on the lives of Africans in the diaspora. We will pass through small villages and arrive at Assin Manso, the burial site of two former slaves from Jamaica and the US whose remains were reinterred here in August 1998 during Ghana’s first Emancipation Day Celebration. You will see the “Slave River:” where our ancestors were washed before confinement in the slave dungeons to await shipment to the  Americas.

Arrive in Elmina late evening and check-in your hotel.

Hotel: Ridge Royal Hotel
Meal(s)  Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Ridge Royal Hotel, Cape Coast, Ghana

Ridge Royal Hotel Cape Coast Ghana

Fri./December 31 – Day8: 

CAPE COAST & ELMINA CASTLES

After breakfast, we travel a short distance to visit the Elmina Castle/Slave Dungeon- originally called Fort Sao Jorge de Elmina – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, completed in 1486 and were the first European made structures built in sub-Saharan Africa.

We continue to the Cape Coast dun2eon, where we will experience the emotional journey of going in the opposite direction of our ancestors, through the infamous “door of no return”. RETURNING through the “door of no return” be prepared to console your traveling companions as this is always an emotional experience.

Transfer to your hotel.

Hotel: Ridge Royal Hotel
Meal(s)  Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Sat./January 1 – Day9:

CAPE COAST

After a leisure breakfast, we visit the Kotokoraba Market in Cape Coast “Kotokoraba” the cradle of Cape Coast The Kotokoraba market is the economic hub of the region, with major trading stores located around it The market has existed for many decades and was a major trading site during the pre-independence era. It serves as a major point for all trade in the region and it is a hotspot for economic activity as most major activities in the city take place in and around the area.

Late afternoon you will participate in the “Fihankra” ceremony. Fihankra is a ceremony which seeks to reconnect people of African descent, who have been lost due to the transatlantic slave trade, to the motherland. This ceremony reconnects returnees with the cultural and spiritual ties that had been denied them for centuries. The final part of Fihankra includes a naming ceremony.

Hotel: Ridge Royal Hotel
Meal (s)  Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Sun./January2 – Day10: 

CAPE COAST-KAKUM  NATIONAL PARK-ACCRA

After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel for a visit to the Kakum National Park, Ghana’s most famous parks. Take a brief walking tour on the forest floor where you will learn how our ancestors lived in the forest See birds, butterflies and perhaps catch a glimpse of the forests over 40 species of mammals including monkeys and the reclusive forest elephant Proceed to the canopy walk Kakum is home to Africa’s only aerial walkway through the tree canopy, 1000-foot-long and even- bridge walkway with viewing platforms that reach heights over 150 feet above the ground.

Visit ‘Global Mama’s’ -an inspiring non-profit and Fair-trade organization, assisting women in Ghana to become economically independent During this visit you can learn about the challenges and successes of running these kinds of projects. Get crafty and turn your hand to learning about the traditional West African art of Batik making.

Arrive in Accra late afternoon.

Hotel: Lancaster Hotel, Accra
Meal(s)  Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Mon./January 3 – Day11: 

ACCRA

This morning, enjoy the day at leisure.

You may also want to experience worship service at a local church as you are sure to enjoy how Ghanaians thank their maker for ushering them safely into the new year.

Or at your own pace, enjoy sunbathing at the La Pleasure Beach.

Hotel: Lancaster Hotel, Accra
Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Tue./January 4 – Day12: 

ACCRA (SHOPPING EXPERIENCE)

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your own convenience  to

experience some of Accra’s most authentic shopping opportunities including Crafts, Carvings, Authentic African Art, exquisite fabrics and custom-made clothing.

Your day begins with a visit to the Makola Market which is the biggest open market in Accra. This fascinating market has been compartmentalized into various sections to make shopping easy for buyers. You will have the chance to walk through this unusual busy market and even get the chance to bargain for stuff you would like to purchase.

You will also stop at the city’s arts and crafts market to try out our bargaining skills.

After the chaos at the Makola Market, the next two shops in Osu will be a bit of a relief. You continue to the fashionable Oxford street that has colorful stalls

Hotel: Lancaster Hotel, Accra
Meal(s):  None Included / Dine on your own at your leisure

Wed./January 5 – Day13: 

ACCRA-DEPART

Today is at leisure but with the assistance of your driver and guide; decide on your excursions and activities.

In the evening, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight home

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

passport**Important Notice:  Your passport must have four blank visa pages (two facing pages – two facing pages) for any visas and entry stamps upon arrival in Ghana. (Please make sure the blank pages say “Visa” at the top) If visiting other countries, more will be required. Also, your passport must be valid for six months after the intended date of return from Ghana.** Only MACHINE READABLE TRAVEL DOCUMENTS (MRTDs) will be accepted to enter Ghana with effect from 24 November 2015. Please note that extended passports won’t be accepted any longer. For this reason, we advise you to closely check your travel documents.

As a general precaution, all travelers are advised to carry a photocopy of the photo/bio information page of their passport and keep it in a location separate from their passport. Also recommended is that you take a picture of your passport with your cell phone to keep it handy.

Safety Notices

For international travel advisory and emergency, alerts check the U.S. Department of State website.  If you have lost your passport or wallet, please contact the local police department and file a report. Once you have done this, contact the U.S. Embassy in Ghana

U.S. Embassy Ghana
No. 24, Fourth Circular Rd., Cantonments, Accra
P.O. Box GP 2288
Accra, Ghana
Phone: +233 (0) 30 274 1000

WhatsApp-iPhone-6

COMMUNICATING While Abroad
DOWNLOAD WhatsApp before you leave the USA for easy WiFi use in communicating with the tour group, friends and family back home during your international travel.  This application is available for Android and IOS.

 Not included in the trip price

  • Airline Flight
  • Cost of visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Other meals not listed
    Optional Tours     you may select optional tours on your own and pay in advance, or purchase onsite, should the tours still be available
  • Golf is an optional tour and is not included in the trip price.  There will be a golfers conference call to discuss courses, playing opportunities, transportation, tee times, costs, dress code, and etiquette. Golfers are not restricted to group rounds and may venture out to play on their own should they wish to do so via taxi/Uber.
  • Tips for luggage porter at the airport coming/going (est. $3US per bag coming/going)
  • Tips for the Guide/Escort/Driver & his helper (est. $3-$5 per day)
  • Tips for servers at dining areas, at hotels and area restaurants  (est. 10%-15% per meal)
  • Personal expenses

*As with any travel programs this itinerary is subject to change.
Travel insurance is highly recommended to protect your trip and we can offer several affordable packages for your consideration.

LUGGAGE-3

Baggage:  Group customers are subject to airline guidelines regarding checked and carry-on baggage which is noted in Contract of Carriage.  Each group customer may check one personal bag complying with the airline’s guidelines free of charge.  All other baggage fees apply as stated on the baggage fees page on www.southafricanairwayscom.  Bags must NOT exceed overall dimensions (length + width + height) and must NOT exceed 50 pounds (22.73 kilos).  Overweight and oversized bags may be checked on a load availability basis, for a fee, per the baggage fees page on www.southafricanairways.com.  The airline is not liable for damage, loss or spoilage to musical instruments, electronics and fragile or perishable goods. International destinations have additional baggage restrictions.  For a complete list of baggage guidelines, including liability limitations, please see the airline website

clapboard-2

SMILE!
By participating in our programs and events you are consenting to be photographed/videotaped for material to be used in our publication and marketing efforts.

see-all-our-trips-web

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19th Hole

Vellabox

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

vellabox

Sign mom up for one of three levels of subscriptions available with Vellabox, one of the most aromatic product companies found anywhere.  Subscribers (depending on the level of subscription) will receive one candle (approx. 4 ounces) each month, plus a surprise gift!  Most people don’t realize that burning most commercial candles is bad for them but Vellabox artisan candles are different, they always contain lead-free wicks, use phthalate-free fragrance oils, and are made of 100% soy, coconut or vegetable-based waxes, and many are scented with 100% essential oils. 

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Bookshelf

Tiger Woods’s Back and Tommy John’s Elbow

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

Tiger Woods Back

Injuries & Tragedies That Transformed Careers, Sport, and Society by Jonathan Gelber, MD, MS

By Jonathan Gelber M.D. M.S.

ISBN-10: 1683582586

Yes, mistakes are a part of being human.  But what happens when an attempted solution to a problem results in an unintended consequence that actually makes the original problem worse?  This is known as “the cobra effect”.

 

How has today’s society changed because of Sandy Koufax, Tom Brady, or Tiger Woods? How have courtrooms and the law changed because of the tragic loss of a No. 1 NBA Draft Pick and a NASCAR driver? And what effect did Magic Johnson’s announcement regarding his HIV diagnosis have on the NBA and testing across the nation? Dr. Gelber has compiled a list of impactful injuries and tragedies and the ripple effect they have had on players across several different sports and on society in general.

Order from Amazon.com

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News

Twin Golfers, Daryl and Derek Crawford Share Their Sibling Rivalry

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook
Daryl and Derek Crawford (photo: YouTube)

February 4, 2020 | BY AAGD STAFF

A competitive edge is what each of the twin brothers, Daryl and Derek, seek when battling it out on the golf course. Going back-and-forth, it’s hard to tell the identical twins apart, except when you look at how they dress. Derek is more traditional and dresses casually while Daryl likes to wear bow ties and dress in bright colors to showcase his sense of savvy style.

The love for golf is only one unique bond these Tempe, Arizona brothers share while they manage separate golf courses. Daryl manages Papago Golf Course while Derek manages the ASU Karsten Golf Course across the street.

Watch the video below for more about this friendly sibling rivalry. https://12news.com/embeds/video/75-8120938/iframe?jwsource=cl

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Bookshelf

One Man’s Opinion

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

One Man's Opinion_Front Cover

ISBN: 978-1-6847-1782-8

By Jesse J. Lewis, Sr. with Foreword by Marc Morial

Black People have 3 problems: #1: Black people. #2: Black people. #3: White people.

Most Black people have a complaint, but they do not give a solution. In this book, Dr. Jesse J. Lewis, Sr., a military veteran, owner of 17 businesses and a former cabinet member appointed under Alabama Governor George Wallace walks readers through straightforward solutions to gaining unlimited success and prosperity as a once legally enslaved race of people in America. Lewis shares vivid memories of his humble beginnings growing up on a tenant farm in a tiny shotgun house in the South, being raised by his grandmother,
then going on to earn five degrees, obtain personal and professional success while sharing his wealth and vision with countless others. Lewis believes that everyone should have every opportunity to share in the American Dream and he is fairly convinced that when Black people are born they are born at a disadvantage. Lewis has lived the story of a thousand men in his lifetime and his book, filled with practical advice, criticisms, and discontent, is meant to be helpful and supportive of Black people.

Dr_Lewis_BP_1_Final_500

Dr. Jesse J. Lewis, Sr.

As a human being, one’s fate is based on certain elements of life. Dr. Jesse J. Lewis, Sr. was a high school dropout, yet, went on to become a college president and the first African American since Reconstruction to serve in the cabinet of an Alabama governor. The founder of the oldest Black-owned advertising and public relations firm in America, he owns and publishes the largest Black-owned weekly newspaper in the Southeast, The Birmingham Times. Lewis is nationally known in media circles and has served as President of the National Black Publishers Association. He is active in political affairs and served as a close advisor to Birmingham Mayor Richard Arrington, the first Black mayor of the city of Birmingham, Alabama, having served 20 years, from 1979 to 1999.

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Obituaries

Buddy Cooper Obituary

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

Buddy CooperBuddy Cooper
August 29, 1957- March 11, 2018
(age 60)

Cooper lost his battle with cancer early Sunday morning, March 11, 2018 in New York.  The former Electronics Engineer attended Morehouse College and served as the Director of Instruction over 9 years at the Bronx Golf Center (Bronx, New York) and enjoyed more than 20-years as a golf professional, starting in the business in Philadelphia, PA at Cobb’s Creek Golf Club. 

A former PGA of America member, teaching at both the Fairview Golf Center (Elmsford, NY) and at Marine Park Golf Course (Brooklyn, NY), he was Head Professional at the historic Freeway Golf Course (Sicklerville, NJ.), the first 18-hole venue owned and operated by African Americans in the U.S.   His stellar credentials included running his own enterprise, Buddy Cooper Golf and serving as an instructor at the prestigious Jim McLean Golf Academy at Chelsea Piers in New York City. 

VIEW OBITUARY HERE

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NewsSlider

PGA Tour Caddie Wayne Birch Jr. Inducted into Southern University Sports Hall of Fame

by Debert Cook
written by Debert Cook

Wayne Birch Jr_slider

BY AAGD STAFF

January 29, 2020

Professional PGA Tour Caddie Wayne Birch Jr. received a grand induction into the Southern University Sports Hall of Fame (SUSHOF) in the category of Athletic Achievement in Golf.  The Enshrinement Ceremony was held on November 8, 2019, and honored 20 individuals.  Master of Ceremonies, SUSHOF Chairman Charlie Granger, a Dallas Cowboys first Black offensive lineman (1961) led the 6:30 p.m. program that was overseen by its Commissioners and took place at the Belle of Baton Rouge Hotel and Casino Atrium in Baton Rouge, La.   

Southern University Sports Hall of Fame, Diversity, Golf, Minority, Collegiate, African American, sports, Black

Wayne Birch Jr. (L) with fellow inductee Coach Willie Williams

 

Birch, who is one of only four Black caddies on the PGA Tour, humbly accepted the honor for his success in business, as the owner of Wayne Birch Golf Consulting and in being a rising star in the pro-golf community, in addition to his activities mentoring young and less experienced golfers along his way. Birch, age 35, also has the distinction of being the youngest SUSHOF inductee.

Gathered at the Induction ceremony with Wayne is (L-R) Geraldine Birch (mother), Wayne Birch Sr. (father), Alison Birch (wife), Wayne Birch Jr., Chantz Birch (brother) and Tranishia Birch (sister-in-law). (photo contributed)

Attending the November 8, 2019 induction ceremony with Wayne were (L-R) Geraldine Birch (mother), Wayne Birch Sr. (father), Alison Birch (wife), Wayne Birch Jr., Chantz Birch (brother) and Tranishia Birch (sister-in-law). (photo contributed)

Birch is a 2010 Bachelor of Science Degree holder in Secondary Education with a minor in Business and he earned a Master’s in Education with a concentration in Education Leadership from Southern University.  His classroom diligence landed him atop Southern University’s Dean’s List (2003-2006).

At 28-years old Birch became the youngest Athletic Director in the State of Louisiana.  After a brief but impactful career in education, he transitioned to the world of professional golf where, for the last three years, he has caddied for PGA Tour winner Troy Merritt.  The pair won the Barbasol Championship in 2018.

Wayne Birch, Jr.

Wayne Birch, Jr.

Wayne was raised in Atlanta, Georgia and grew up in the community of College Park where he excelled in sports from an early age.  His athleticism earned him multiple offers, ultimately he accepted a golf scholarship to Southern University and went on to become Team Captain as a sophomore.  Winning four tournaments, he was named All-American during his tenure and subsequently Newcomer of the Year (2003) Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Most Improved Player Southern University (2004), and Most Valuable Player SWAC (2006).  

Wayne Birch, Jr. accepting his award from a presenter.

Wayne Birch, Jr. accepting his award from a presenter.

Birch self-sponsored many of his early competitive entries in golf playing on numerous mini tour events such as the Hooters Tour, Adams Tour, and the Advocates Tour.  After some success, he was approached by a PGA player and friend to make another transition —this time from professional golfer to PGA Tour Caddie.  Since then, Birch has secured 1 win on the Web.com Tour (now the Korn Ferry Tour), 1 win on the PGA Tour, and 40 PGA TOUR Top 10’s. 

Wayne Birch, Jr. on the Spring 2019 cover of AAGD. BUY THIS ISSUE !!

Wayne Birch, Jr. on the Spring 2019 cover of AAGD. BUY THIS ISSUE !!

Birch’s accomplishments have been many and he has been featured on the cover of the African American Golfer’s Digest (Spring 2019).  He and his lovely wife Alison recently welcomed their first child in January 2020, a bouncing baby boy, 6lbs, 5oz, 19″.

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