Page 443 – African American Golfer's Digest

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke Holds 2016 Golf Classic

by Debert Cook October 30, 2016

written by Debert Cook

L-R: Enjoying a glorious day, golfers Chris Arceneaux, Bertrand Bonnick, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, Garnet Wright, Tony Jenkins.

The annual Yvette Clarke Golf Classic was held at the Marine Park Golf Course on Monday, August 15, 2016. U.S. Representative Yvette Clarke represents the 9th District of New York. The outing is an annual event and included a golf clinic taught by a PGA-rated golf professional, a gala awards dinner and offered guests an excellent time hanging out with the Congresswoman, golfers, and friends. A great time was held by all!

L-R: John Khani, Charles DeBerry, Congresswoman Clarke, Tommy Torres & Doug Hathway prepare to tee off.

Tommy Torres, John Khani, Doug Hathaway, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, Herman Merritt, Charles DeBerry & former Congressman Ed Towns.

October 30, 2016 0 comment

Accessories

JBL Clip 2

by Debert Cook October 30, 2016

written by Debert Cook

Enjoy Wirelessly stream high-quality sound from your smartphone or tablet with the JBL Clip 2.

You’ll be the envy of your golf buddies when you clip this small, portable speaker to your golf or gym bag, backpack, or clothing. It’s built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery supports up to 8 hours of playtime, so you’ll have plenty of juice to get in all the great sounds that you like.

Ultra-rugged and light, the unit is the size of a hockey puck, offering a powerfully portable speaker that is convenient for taking anywhere you want to have sound amplified.

Completely waterproof, the JBL Clip 2 makes for great company on land or water. You can easily stream music wirelessly via Bluetooth, or plug it into any smartphone or tablet with its attached audio cable. Another good feature is the integrated line-in cable that stows away in the bottom of the device.

Want more? Then, just JBL Clip 2 speakers together to enjoy amplified sound for a surround experience. You can even use the speakerphone to make clear, noise and echo free phone calls.

Take the JBL Clip 2 with you on your next golf round or other adventure.

Bluetooth Wireless
IPX7 Waterproof Rating
Integrated 3.5mm Audio Cable
Mic for Speakerphone Calls
Connects with Additional Clip 2 Speaker

MSRP $59.95

October 30, 2016 0 comment

Clothing

Tail Activewear

by AAGD Staff October 30, 2016

written by AAGD Staff

Golf clothing for women has reached an all time fashion high with Tail Activewear leading the trends, offering some of the finest in design. Tail Activewear has a full line of exciting looks and classic styles.

Cici Shift Print Top. Sleeveless, convertible collar & snap placket. UPF 45+, Classic Fit/25″ Length 91% Polyester, 9% Spandex. MSRP $83.00 Mulligan Black Short, Bi-Stretch Woven Fabric 21″ Outseam Pull On Short, Equestrian Pockets, Back Welt Pockets UPF 40+ Modern Slim Fit / 21″ Outseam 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex. MSRP $103.00.

The Tail Activewear clothing includes almost every piece you’ll need for playing with confidence while looking good on the golf course. Their pants, skirts, polos, shorts, dresses, and other items feature a modern fit and many items are made with the Bi-Stretch materials and incorporate UPF45+ Sun Protection. And many of its fabrics are rated UPF 40+ and block approximately 98% of harmful UV rays.

On the course or in the clubhouse, the Tail Activewear allows you to move freely while looking your best. The Golf Essential Collection is full of great basics. All women will especially love the dependable sizing that keeps you from worrying about a proper fit. The Tail Activewear moisture management fabrics are perfect for hot, humid days on the golf course. The fabrics wick moisture away from the body, keeping you dry, comfortable, and worry-free. Besides being comfortable, the company’s clothing is one of the best in technical fabrications and consistent in maintaining quality.

Tail Activewear golf clothing is fuss-free and most can be machine-washed and dried, giving you more time to concentrate of your next tee time. Throughout it’s 40-year history, Tail Activewear has remained focused on delivering the best apparel for your active golf lifestyle. They carefully select fabrics with features they know are important to customers.

October 30, 2016 0 comment

News

U.S. Senators Want The Women’s U.S. Open Moved From Donald Trump’s Golf Course

by Debert Cook October 26, 2016

written by Debert Cook

BY AAGD STAFF

October 26, 2016

Three Senate Democrats want the 2017 Women’s U.S. Open moved from a Donald Trump-owned golf course in New Jersey, they said in a letter to the United States Golf Association on Tuesday.

“Given the historic role that the [Ladies Professional Golf Association] has played in advancing the rights of women and the severity of Mr. Trump’s words and actions over many years, we would encourage you to move the 2017 tournament to a course that isn’t associated with Mr. Trump,”

Sens. Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) wrote in the letter. “We would also strongly recommend that the USGA seriously consider suspending further events at Trump properties.”
The USGA has faced renewed calls to move the event in recent weeks, after The Washington Post released a 2005 video in which Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, openly talked about forcing himself on women without their consent.

“The decision that the USGA makes is more consequential than simply the geographic location of a golf tournament,” the senators wrote. “In declining future association with a brand that degrades women, the USGA and LPGA have an opportunity to make clear to the world, and most especially young Americans, that our nation will not tolerate nor do business with anyone or any company that condones or excuses action that constitutes sexual assault.”

The USGA did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the letter, which was addressed to Mike Davis, its CEO. The USGA manages the Women’s U.S. Open, though many of the players are LPGA Tour members.
Mike Whan, the head of the LPGA, faced questions about the event during a tournament in South Korea earlier this month.

“In a strange way, I’m lucky that the LPGA has no direct dealings with Donald Trump or Donald Trump properties,” Whan said, according to Reuters.
Golfweek interviewed a dozen LPGA players during the South Korea event and found that most had no objection to keeping the event at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey.

Dr. Minnie L. Mikell Johnson

by Debert Cook October 24, 2016

written by Debert Cook

Minnie L. Mikell Johnson was called to her heavenly home on September 22, 2016. Her last resting place was McLeod Hospice House in Florence, SC. She was born on May 28, 1934 to William Moore and Mary Emma Shelton Mikell. She graduated from South Carolina State College with a B.S. in Biology and earned a Masters from Hunter College in New York, and a Masters and Ph.D. From Rutgers University in New Jersey.

Dr. Johnson spent 30 years as a Research Scientist in the pharmaceutical industry working at various institutions such as the Sloan-Kettering Cancer Institute, Schering Plough, Squibb and Novartis (formerly known as Ciba-Geigy). When Dr. Johnson retired she became the primary developer of the computerization of Library and Information Services of the East Orange, NJ School District. She also became an entrepreneur post-retirement and founded an ”information brokering” business called Sci-Tech Information Services, Inc.

Dr. Johnson placed great emphasis on innovation and education. Her scholarly and community accomplishments were rewarded by numerous honors, and plaques and earned the admiration of peers and associates. Dr. Johnson felt that her life could be summed up best by following the progress of the children enrolled in the East Orange School District Chess Club which she began in 1969. The program is still a viable entity for academic and national success. Her role as a mentor to some of the top scholars and scientists in the country is among her many legacies.

Golfing was her passion and she spent her later years documenting the history of African American women in the sport of golf. Her publications include: The African American Woman Golfer: Her Legacy (2008), Heroines of African American Golf: The Present, and the Future (2010) and, Female Legends of the United Golfers Association (2015).
Dr. Johnson was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ for 30 years and served as Treasurer of the Scholarship Committee for 20 years. After relocating to Florence, SC, she became a member of Cedar Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Supply, NC.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her son, Phillip G. Johnson, daughter-in-law, Deborah Johnson and grand-daughter, Danyell Johnson of Iselin, NJ; her daughter, Jamie Reid and son-in-law, Audley Reid, Jr. of Palm Beach Gardens, FL; her sister-in-law, Marva Brown, Allene Johnson and Doris Murrell, brother-in-law, Kenneth Johnson, and many nieces and nephews from the family of her recently deceased husband, James H. Johnson; and numerous, wonderful friends in Florence, SC and New Jersey.

Dr. Johnson will be cremated by Cain-Calcutt-Stephens Funeral Home in Florence, SC. She did not want a funeral service; she’d rather her loved ones do good deeds in her memory. As efficiently expressed in one of her favorite poems, Miss Me—But Let Me Go, “When I come to the end of the road; And the sun has set for me; I want no rites in a gloom-filled room; Why cry for a soul set free?”

VIEW OBITUARY and memorial service details.
Friends and family are cordially invited to a gathering to celebrate and honor the memory of Minnie Mikell Johnson.

DATE: Saturday, November 5, 2016
TIME: 3:00-6:00 p.m.
LOCATION: 2084 Brock Circle, Florence, SC 29501

Friends and family! Food & Drinks (including Burbon!) Stories and laughter!

To RSVP please contact Jamie Reid at 516-267-9387 or email [email protected].
If you are unable to make it, please feel free to email Jaime with a story of your favorite memorie of Dr. J.

October 24, 2016 0 comment

Equipment Review Training Aids

PrecisionPro GPS Golf Band

by AAGD Staff October 24, 2016

written by AAGD Staff

precision-pro When you are out playing a golf round, and seeking to lower your score, the last thing you need is a big, thick, heavy golf band GPS reader on your wrist. Now, there is a new item that conquers your GPS-wearing fears of being weighed down, it is the PrecisonPro GPS Golf Band.

You’ll be impressed with this item. It’s thinner, lighter, and way more comfortable than many of the leading GPS wearable devices out on the marketplace. Weighing in at only 1oz, the PrecisonPro GPS Golf Band is packed with features. 35,000 courses are preloaded for you, to ensure you’re ready to go on the first tee. There is also an auto advancement features that moves from hole to hole automatically, as you play. Best of all, you can even see actual distances to water hazards and other hazards while measuring just how far you need to hit each club along the way.

The PrecisonPro GPS Golf Band is accurate from the front, center, and back of greens, including 4 hazards per hole. The interface is very user-friendly. There are no downloads to make, and no membership fees to worry about. Simply purchase the PrecisonPro GPS Golf Band, put it on your wrist, and you’re ready to go. Simply set it to “Play Golf” mode, to activate the GPS signal and the unit will find the 1 of 35,000 courses available for you.

For golfers who enjoy walking the course, the PrecisonPro GPS Golf Band has a built-in odometer feature to track your steps. The PrecisonPro GPS Golf Band is USGA/R&A/ Compliant/ Tournament Legal, so you can count on keeping it in your bag for all play.

Not to mention, the PrecisonPro GPS Golf Band is waterproof up to 32 feet.

It comes with a 1 Year Warranty: the warranty covers any operational issues.

The PrecisonPro GPS Golf Band package includes a USB charging adapter and instruction booklet.

What is really great about this item is that once you complete your round, the band summarizes data on just how long your round was and then, you can easily exit the “Golf Mode” and return to the “Watch Mode,”—this will keep the battery life from draining, until you ready to start-up another round.

The GPS Golf Band is so comfortable and easy to use, you’ll love having it on your wrist.

MSRP: $175

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October 24, 2016 0 comment

News

Community Resource Organizations

by Debert Cook October 22, 2016

written by Debert Cook

In our commitment to serve towards the greater good of the game, the African American Golfer’s Digest is pleased to offer our compiled list of 501c(3) non-profit organizations that are using golf in their public campaigns to uplift the community through educational programs, scholarships, golf clinics, and tournament fundraisers that serve to support minority growth and development. For more information, please contact Debert Cook at [email protected]

100 Black Men of Orange County

100 Black Men of Stamford

African American Golf Foundation, Inc. (AAGF) of Atlanta

Bowden Senior Men’s Golf Association

Classic City Golf Association

EPAT -Ball/P.M. & The Junior Giants

Greater Cleveland Junior Golf Scholarship Fund

Kansas City Swingers Golf Association

LeRoy Bates Golf Foundation

Lone Star Golf Association

Midnight Golf

Northern California Minority Junior Golf Scholarship Association

Par Busters Golf Club

Perfect Swing Foundation

Sisters Across America

Spoilers Men’s Golf Club

Tennessee Valley Jazz Society-Huntsville

The Darby Foundation

The York County Black Golfers Association

Wake Robin Golf Club

Women of Color Golf

United Black Golfers Association

October 22, 2016 0 comment

Heard & Scene

Watch Find My Golf Buddy on TV!

by Debert Cook October 18, 2016

written by Debert Cook

Last week, George Webber, founder of Find My Golf Buddy and his head teaching professional (and former LPGA Tour Member) Deborah Lee Eldridge were both interviewed onCHCHTV Hamilton about Find My Golf Buddy!

Find My Golf Buddy makes things easier when looking for a compatible partner. George Webber is an avid golfer and developer of the program.

October 18, 2016 0 comment

News Press

African American Golfer’s Digest Announces 2017 PGA Show Participation

by Debert Cook October 17, 2016

written by Debert Cook

AFRICAN AMERICAN GOLFER’S DIGEST
PLANS ITS 7TH YEAR OF EXHIBITING
AT INDUSTRY LEADING 2017 PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW & CONVENTION

BLACK GOLF MAGAZINE CONTINUES EFFORTS TO
GROW BLACK BUSINESS PARTICIPATION
AT THE NATIONS LARGEST AND MOST COMPREHENSIVE GOLF TRADE SHOW

New York, NY, (October 17, 2016)–Visitors to the PGA Merchandise Show & Convention, this January 25-27, 2017, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., will have the chance to experience the mega trade-only event while celebrating a milestone of seven years of exhibit participation by the African American Golfer’s Digest, when the publication presents it Diversity Pavilion & Business Networking Lounge at booth #2991. Demo Day kicks off on January 24.

(L-R) Television Reporter Ian Paige with Bill Fullard, BF Golf Tournament Services

“I am pleased to reinstate our commitment and efforts for this coming year’s Show, and I am still focused on helping minority business owners serving the golf industry to gain greater exposure and awareness.

Golf merchants, inventors, franchisees, licensees, developers, manufacturers, and others need, and want, to be more involved in the golf industry to learn of opportunities and to meet major companies, senior executives, and decision-makers who attend this super golf show,” says Debert Cook, CMP who is publisher and owner of the New York-based magazine.

REGISTER for the PGA SHOW HERE

“Our Diversity Pavilion and Business Networking Lounge aims to help the overall golf industry to better understand how Black golf businesses contribute to the game, the lifestyle, and the business of golf.”

During the Show week AAGD will play host to “Listen UP” seminar sessions featuring some of the finest professionals leading golf businesses and firms specializing in a variety of golf products and services. A daily marketplace of shared information will be available at the AAGD Diversity Pavilion & Business Networking Lounge, booth #2991.

(L-R) Travel writer, Detroit native Ronald Smith with golf legend Lee Elder

“The Diversity Pavilion is a result of the growing participation in golf by firms that are either minority-owned, minority-operated, or specialize in reaching the minority golf marketplace. Each year, the AAGD Pavilion’s opportunities have helped introduce and propel small companies into this arena of big industry buyers.” It’s a mega-golf show that brings in the best of the best for conducting meetings and business deals. “We hope to bridge some of these connections for minority companies during the Show,” states Ms. Cook.

It’s a mega-golf show that brings in the best of the best for conducting meetings and business deals. “We hope to bridge some of these connections for minority companies during the Show,” states Ms. Cook. “There are many minority-owned businesses across the country who want to be a part of this $70-billion golf industry and being at the PGA Show in Orlando is where many of these firms can truly make the connections needed for growing their efforts.

Selena Johnson, Founder of Hollywood Golf with “Tiger’s Double” personality Herme Chua

The African American Golfer’s Digest began exhibiting at the PGA Show in January 2004 and, after witnessing the lack of African American participation, debuted its “Diversity Pavilion” in 2005, as a means for offering minority merchants and golf trade professionals an opportunity for participation and exposure in the mega, trade-only Show which can be an expensive endeavor for many small companies to pursue.

The PGA Merchandise Show is a trade-only event for qualified golf industry professionals only. Attendance at the PGA Merchandise Show is restricted to PGA Professionals and affiliates of the golf industry (buyers & sellers) of golf related products and services. All PGA Show attendees are required to register.

As a part of the week’s events, the African American Golfer’s Digest will also include their “Game On” networking tee-times on Saturday, January 28, at a local Orlando golf course. These related activities are open to all PGA Show merchants and will provide an added extension for continuous networking, deal-making and bonding.

(L-R) Golf legend Calvin Peete, journalist/author Edward Wanambwa, historic caddie Alfred “Rabbit” Dyer.

The AAGD Diversity Pavilion has occupied a combined 1,000 square feet of PGA Show floor space over the years that it has been exhibiting, and for the January 2017 Show, it will again be located in the Products and Services section of the Show floor, this year at booth #2991.

“The PGA Show attracts 40,000 attendees annually and our Diversity Pavilion initiative has succeeded in consistently serving Black business owners and combining techniques for marketing and promoting their companies with substantial opportunities that are available through the African American Golfer’s Digest, the PGA Show and the $70 billion golf industry that this Show represents,” says Ms. Cook.
Each day the Diversity Pavilion will host special featured guests and personalities on site to heighten the energy-charged atmosphere of the PGA Show, the most comprehensive golf show in the U.S. Special events and activities include appearances by African American PGA Professionals, LPGA members, USGTF certified golf trainers, renowned authors, educators and others in the industry. The magazine also publishes a special PGA Show Highlights section in its Spring edition every March 2017. Its annual PGA Show press conference will be held in the media center’s convention hall on where it will detail its additional 2017 programs, alliances, and activities.

Also, this year at the PGA Show, the publication will announce details of several of its signature 2017 golf group travel itineraries that include Italy, Panama, Guyana, Martha’s Vineyard Golf Getaway, Birmingham Jazz & GolfFEST, Newport Jazz & GolfFEST, Augusta GolfFEST (held during Masters Week), along with many other exciting events planned for the 2017 year.

“It’s been 13-years of serving our golf readership and I am delighted to continue a successful working relationship with Reed Exhibitions, The PGA of America and the PGA Show organizers. Our combined efforts have grown participation to this annual trade event by African Americans and exposed many to the educational, professional and career benefits of attending this Show,” says Cook, whose booth receives tremendous foot traffic, media coverage and special guests. There is an estimated are 2.5 million African American golfers in the U.S. and the African American Golfer’s Digest Diversity Pavilion has assisted dozens of minority firms in competing in the golf marketplace.

PGA Show – Booth Activity Schedule*
Booth Manager: James Beatty – Staff: John Perry, Samuel Harris

Wednesday, Jan. 25

9AM-5PM Debert Cook, Publisher, African American Golfer’s Digest

9AM-5PM James Beatty, Executive Editor, African American Golfer’s Digest

12 Noon Deborah Saunders, Author, “Putt Girl; Best Day Yet” [VIDEO]

12Noon Richard Degree, President, The Players Golf Association

12Noon Franco Blackburn, The Agnant Group, President & U.S.A. Distributor, Pin High Golf Apparel

12:30PM Jimmy Garvin, Co-Owner, Malton Golf Course & Author, “The Common Man”

1PM Maulana Dotch, PGA/LPGA, Director of Instructor at Cedar Crest Golf Course [VIDEO]

1PM Chris Arceneaux, Founder/CEO, The Darby Foundation, Eastern States Business and

Golfers Network Association

1PM Ramona Harriet, Black Golf Historian, Author, “The Journey of African Americans in Golf” [VIDEO]

1-1:30PM Jim Dent, signing copies of “The Journey of African Americans in Golf”

1:30PM Ed Coleman, President/CEO, A Game Customs [VIDEO]

2PM Otis Windham, Author, “Thompsonville Collection: Mystic Song of the Deep South”

2PM Jerome Agurs, President/CEO at GolfStatsLive LLC

2PM Ty Delavallade, President & Founder of Golf Quests

3PM Pete McDaniel, Author, Uneven Lies: The Heroic Story of African-Americans In Golf

3PM Shasta Averyhardt, Professional Golfer [VIDEO]

3PM Oneda Castillo, Director of Golf at Women In Golf Foundation and National Evaluator at LPGA [VIDEO]

3PM Garvis Leak, Founder, President & Inventor, “Taking Off” Golf Platform [VIDEO]

Thursday, Jan. 26

9AM-5PM Debert Cook, Publisher, African American Golfer’s Digest

9AM-5PM James Beatty, Executive Editor, African American Golfer’s Digest

9AM-5PM Garvis Leak, Founder & President, “Taking Off” Golf Platform [VIDEO]

11AM Ginger Howard, LPGA [VIDEO]

11AM Stewart Brown, President, Golf Ministries International

11:30AM Jamie Taylor, Event Coordinator, The LPGA Foundation, LPGA-USGA Girls Golf [VIDEO]

11:30AM Howard Bankhead, Executive Director, Par Excellence & Tennessee Valley Youth Golf Development [VIDEO]

11:45AM Melvin Blair, President & CEO, Disabled Veterans Golf Association [VIDEO]

11:50AM Amari “Tigress” Avery, Junior World Champion Golfer [VIDEO]

11;55AM Arthur Johnson, President, Cals Pals (Founded by the late golf champion Calvin Peete) [VIDEO]

12 Noon Deborah Saunders, Author, “Putt Girl” [VIDEO]

12Noon John Woodland, Board Member, My Game. My Golf

12 Noon Mackenzie Mack, Author, “Women’s Golf College Directory,” and “Men’s Golf College Directory”

12 Noon Eugene Clapp, Founder, Renegades of Golf, USGTF Level III Certified Golf Instructor/

Golf Fitness Instructor [VIDEO]

12Noon Jamilia Johnson, PGA PGM Academic Service Coordinator at University of Maryland Eastern Shore

12Noon Selina Johnson, Founder & President, Hollywood Golf [VIDEO]

1PM Renee Powell, PGA/LPGA Member, Head Pro, Clearview Golf Course [VIDEO]

1PM Kevin Hall, professional golfer

1PM Ashaunta Epps, CEO, A Perfect Swing Golf [VIDEO]

1PM John Perry, Author, “Playing In The Dark”

1PM Clemmie Perry, Founder/President, Women of Color Golf

1:15PM Joe Forrest, General Manager & Part Owner, The Links at Southwind Country Club [VIDEO]

1:30PM Wyatt Worthington, Professional Golfer [VIDEO]

2PM Paula Pearson Tucker, LPGA Teaching & Club Professional, Manager at Lauderhill Golf, North Lauderhill, FL & Founder/Executive Director, Fore Life, Inc. [VIDEO]

2PM Tiffany Fitzgerald Mack, President/Founder, BlackGirlsGolf.com

2PM John Simpson, Director of Marketing & Memberships, National Black Golf Hall of Fame [VIDEO]

2PM LaJean Gould, Founder & President, Women in Golf Foundation [VIDEO]

3PM Cal Beatty, President, CJB Marketing Golf Events Services

4PM Charles Calhoun, Golf Instructor & Video Blogger

4PM Darryl Jeffries, President, DLJ Communications Group & Golf Event Management [VIDEO]

Friday, Jan. 27

9AM-3PM AAGD ongoing exhibit and business networking

(show closes at 3PM)

*schedule subject to change.

Over the years, special guests and participants at the Diversity Pavilion have included: Robin Aikens (LPGA), author of newly released training DVD: “Music, Golf & Motivation;” Alfonzo Dowe Jr., inventor of “The Twister” golf ball cleaning system; Mikell Johnson, Ph.D., author of “The African American Woman Golfer: Her Legacy,” A.B. Enterprises’ Handy-Tee Company, Lando Sports Apparel, and the Bogey Boyz ® conglomerate specializing in Bogey Boyz clothing, Bogey Boyz Golf Club, Bogey Kidz ® Mentoring Program, Investment Group, and Travel Agency for destinations worldwide, Earnie Ellison (PGA Foundation), Thelma B. Thompson Ph.D. (president of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, the first HBCU to run a PGA Certified Professional Golf Management Program), Jeff Dunovant (National Black Golf Hall of Fame), Bill Hopson (Disney Sports & Golf), Burl Bowens (Golf Coach, Hampton University), LaJean Gould (Women In Golf Foundation), Pro Golf at Camp Creek owners, Weldon & Shirely Coleman, Malachi Knowles (African American Golfer’s Hall of Fame), Hercules O. Pitts, a dual-golf course owner from Maryland, Wendell Haskins of The Original Tee golf classic, Dara Broadus (Future’s Tour), Addie Cobb of Addie Cobb Golf Academy, Mary L. Phelan (EWGA Board Member), Bill Fullard of BF Golf Tournament Services, Anthony Sheriff of Sweet Spot Apparel, Selena Johnson, Founder/President of Hollywood Golf, and Craig Stingley of C.S. Innovation, among others.

Celebrity appearances have included Kevin Hall, pro golfer, “Tiger’s Double” the celebrity impersonator and look-alike Mr. Herme Chua who signed autographs and posed for photos with more than 1,000 fans, Pete McDaniel, a veteran golf writer and best-selling author, Omarosa Managault Stallworth of Donald Trump’s Celebrity Apprentice who signed autographs and posed for photographs with more than 1,200 fans. Additional stellar visitors to the booth included Lee Elder (Senior Tour), Renee Powell (PGA/LPGA), Calvin Peete, (PGA), Vern Burns (mini-tour player), Charles Calhoun (Golf Channel’s Big Break) along with a host of others.

Media visits and interviews at the Diversity Pavilion have included THE GOLF CHANNEL, ESPN, Golf For Women and several Canadian-based and Florida-based newspapers and radio stations. The GOLF CHANNEL also produced a special Martin Luther King, Jr., special production at the Diversity Pavilion that ran on its sports channel during Black History Month in February 2008.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND the PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW?

Golf Industry Professionals
Buyers for Golf Facilities and Courses
Golf Course Owners, Presidents, and Managers
PGA & LPGA Professionals (International and Domestic)
Assistant PGA Professionals and PGA Apprentices
Golf and Pro-Shop Owners and Managers
Golf Coaches and Instructors
Directors of Golf
Students and Entrepreneurs of the Golf Industry
Golf Tournament Directors and Organizers

The African American Golfer’s Digest, a niche focused magazine that launched in March 2003, continues to be the nation’s oldest–and only–leading golf publication serving avid Black American golfers.

The national quarterly serves a devoted subscriber base as the only magazine of its kind and reaches 80,000 readers with news, information and activities focused towards the African American demographic. The is both print and digital versions available.

The African American Golfer’s Digest is registered with the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) with memberships that include the United States Golf Association (USGA), National Golf Foundation, International Network of Golf (ING), and Metropolitan Golf Writers Association (MGA). To learn more about participating with the African American Golfer’s Digest Diversity Pavilion & Business Networking Lounge contact [email protected] or visit AfricanAmericanGolfersDigest.com

* * * * * *

PGA SHOW ONSITE – Registration Hours

Attendee (Available at the Orange County Convention Center)

Monday, January 23, 2017 – 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Tuesday, January 24, 2017 – 7:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday, January 25, 2017 – 7:00am – 6:00pm
Thursday, January 26, 2017 – 7:30am – 6:00pm
Friday, January 27, 2017 – 8:00am – 3:00pm

PGA Show Demo Day (Orange County National Golf Center)

Tuesday, January 24, 2017 – 8:30am – 5:00pm

Exhibitor (Available at the Orange County Convention Center)

Saturday, January 21, 2017 – 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Sunday, January 22, 2017 – 8:00am – 5:00pm
Monday, January 23, 2017 – 8:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday, January 24, 2017 – 8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday, January 25, 2017 – 7:00am – 6:00pm
Thursday, January 26, 2017 – 7:30am – 6:00pm
Friday, January 27, 2017 – 8:00am – 3:00pm

Media Registration Hours (Available at the Orange County Convention Center, Room 311A )

Monday, January 23, 2017 – 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Tuesday, January 24, 2017 – 8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday, January 25, 2017 – 7:30am – 6:00pm
Thursday, January 26, 2017 – 7:30am – 6:00pm
Friday, January 27, 2017 – 7:30am – 3:00pm

October 17, 2016 0 comment

News

Tiger Woods Rebrands his ‘Woods’ charitable event company as TGR Live

by Debert Cook October 17, 2016

written by Debert Cook

IRVINE, Calif. (October 10, 2016) – Today TGR announced the rebranding of Woods’ charitable event company as TGR Live. Formerly known as the Tiger Woods Charity Event Corporation, the organization was formed in 1996 to conduct fundraising events in support of the Tiger Woods Foundation, and has since become a leader in hospitality and live events that benefit the foundation.

tgr-live-tiger-woods “The TGR Live team has decades of experience operating the world’s best events,” Tiger Woods said. “Our guests return year after year because we put on a great show – whether it’s a golf tournament or a benefit concert – and I look forward to growing this work.”

TGR Live currently operates three PGA TOUR events – the Quicken Loans National in Washington, DC; the Genesis Open in Los Angeles; and the Hero World Challenge in Albany, Bahamas – in addition to a series of signature events, including Tiger Jam in Las Vegas and the Tiger Woods Invitational in Monterey Peninsula. In 2016, TGR Live will also produce An Evening of Unexpected Champions in celebration of the Foundation’s 20^th anniversary. The event will be held October 20, 2016 at the iconic New York Public Library.

“TGR Live has been integral to the success of the Tiger Woods Foundation,” Rick Singer, Tiger Woods Foundation CEO said. “Thanks to a diverse team of event experts, we’ve established a tradition of incredible experiences for fans and guests. TGR Live has raised millions for charity over the years, creating an enormous impact on youth education.”

Through the years TGR Live has developed a reputation for producing unrivaled experiences in golf, hospitality and entertainment. Its inaugural PGA TOUR tournament was held in 1999 and the company has since run 31 tournaments in California, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Florida, Maryland and the Bahamas. Notably, TGR Live created the Quicken Loans National to rave reviews in just 112 days in 2007. Earlier this year, it was announced that TGR Live will assume operations of one of the PGA TOUR’s oldest events, the Genesis Open, held at The Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles. Past champions of TGR Live events include Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, Rickie Fowler, Justin Rose, Zach Johnson, Bubba Watson and Jordan Spieth.

TGR Live’s experience outside of golf includes large-scale concert benefits featuring A-list musical acts Van Halen, Sting, Prince, Stevie Wonder and No Doubt among many others – as well as intimate performances with Jon Bon Jovi, Michael Buble and Ed Sheeran. Past experience also include openings with US Presidents Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush and dinners with the world’s top chefs including Mario Batali, Bobby Flay and Giada De Laurentiis.

The announcement of TGR Live comes as golfer and philanthropist Tiger Woods is unveiling the next chapter of his storied career with the arrival of TGR (pronounced ‘T-G-R’): a centralized, parent brand, that sets out to unify his current and future ventures around his own unique approach to business, citizenship and competition.

Since spring 2015, Tiger has been working toward a brand structure that would join and strengthen his businesses and endeavors. Led by Tiger’s vision and inspired by his commitment to excellence on and off the golf course, TGR reflects three core tenants—mindset, method, and mastery—that have remained constant at every stage of Tiger’s lifelong pursuit of greatness and have made him a champion.

Led by Tiger’s vision and inspired by his commitment to greatness on and off the golf course, TGR reflects the mindset, method, and mastery that have remained constant throughout Tiger’s lifelong pursuit of excellence.

Under the umbrella of TGR sits the golf course design business, TGR Design; The Woods Jupiter, Tiger’s first restaurant; the Tiger Woods Foundation, Tiger’s educational nonprofit founded in 1996, which operates the TGR Learning Lab, TGR EDU and the Earl Woods Scholar Program.

About TGR Live: For 20 years, TGR Live has exclusively supported the fundraising efforts of the Tiger Woods Foundation. It focuses solely on creating amazing experiences for the Foundation’s clients at world-class events like the PGA TOUR’s Quicken Loans National, Genesis Open, and Hero World Challenge as well as Tiger Jam and the Tiger Woods Invitational. TGR Live provides a variety of services to the Foundation, including hospitality management, public relations and marketing, tournament operations, and sponsor sales. While many TGR Live events are televised, TGR Live does not provide TV or video production.

October 17, 2016 0 comment

News

Many LPGA players say “No” to moving 2017 U.S. Women’s Open from Donald Trump’s course

by Debert Cook October 15, 2016

written by Debert Cook

INCHEON, South Korea – LPGA players don’t really have a say in where the U.S. Women’s Open is held. But they do have opinions.

Controversy continues to swell over whether the USGA should move the 2017 U.S. Women’s Open from Trump National in Bedminster, N.J., in light of Donald Trump’s controversial remarks about women.

Women’s Open champion Brittany Lang

USA Today columnist Christine Brennan called for golf’s governing body to “dump Trump National and find another location”, even if the championship is only nine months away.

Golfweek interviewed a dozen players at the LPGA KEB HanaBank Championship in South Korea, however, and found that’s not the overall sentiment of the tour.
In fact, it’s not even a locker room topic.

Only one player interviewed was adamant that the championship be moved. Most felt politics shouldn’t impact what course they play.

“I say keep it there,” said 2016 Women’s Open champion Brittany Lang. “I don’t think it’s related.”
Cristie Kerr, the 2007 USWO champion and a friend of Trump’s, feels the Republican presidential nominee should be forgiven. Read more at GolfWeek.com

October 15, 2016 0 comment

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Famed Black Pinehurst Caddie Willie McRae to be enshrined in CGA Hall of Fame

by Debert Cook October 14, 2016

written by Debert Cook

Willie McRae has caddied among the towering longleaf pines of Pinehurst for more than seven decades. On his 10th birthday, his father, also a caddie at Pinehurst, brought Willie to the golf course to work. It spawned a career few could ever hope to replicate.

On Thursday, the Carolinas Golf Association announced McRae, 83, will be enshrined in the CGA Hall of Fame in February. JOINING McRae behind the 18th GREEN of Pinehurst No. 2 as fellow caddies and family members surrounded him, the CGA celebrated one of golf’s greatest careers.

“It’s a very proud moment for the Carolinas Golf Association to make this announcement at Pinehurst,” said G. Jackson Hughes Jr., the chairman of the CGA Hall of Fame selection committee. “Willie McRae has meant so much to so many people for so many years here at Pinehurst. It’s a well-deserved award.”

McRae’s legendary time at Pinehurst traces much of the area’s rise in the annals of American golf. He has caddied for five presidents, for celebrities from Mickey Mantle to Michael Jordan and many of golf’s greatest FIGURES, including Donald Ross, Bobby Jones, Gene Sarazen and Sam Snead.

“Willie McRae has meant so much to so many people for so many years HERE at Pinehurst. It’s a well-deserved award.” -G. Jackson Hughes Jr., CGA official
“I’ve always been THANKFUL to be able to work at a place like Pinehurst,” McRae said. “Everybody’s always been so nice to me. They’ve always made me think I was the important person.”

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