- LEVEL * A
- FULL PARTNER A-LEVEL
- $1,250/ month
- Provides full participation
- at the Diversity Pavilion
- includes all advertising,
- marketing, editorial, eBlasts
- + social media integration
- Receive booth visitor list
- LEVEL * B
- PARTNER B-LEVEL
- $750/ month
- Online editorial feature
- Distribute my literature for me
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- PARTNER C-LEVEL
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June 14, 2016
Mr. Mike Davis
Executive Director
United States Golf Association
77 Liberty Corner Road
Far Hills, NJ 07931
Dear Mr. Davis:
With a sense of pride and personal satisfaction in December 2011, I deposited in the USGA Museum a sizeable amount of golf material relating to African Americans that was collected over the years. It was my intention to deposit the remainder of my not insubstantial files and memorabilia to the Museum at such time when I no longer felt a need for the material to remain in my possession.
Also over the following years, I have encouraged others to deposit their collections of like material to the Museum and I have offered opinions to the Museum staff on matters pertaining to greater racial diversity in our beloved sport. In the light of recent developments, however, I have decided to reexamine my relationship with USGA.
When I learned some months ago that USGA intended to hold the 2017 U.S. Women’s Open at the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, I was appalled and infuriated. I drafted a letter to you expressing my concerns. But after many personal hours of agonizing deliberations, I decided to withhold action pending further developments. As it is now abundantly clear that USGA has no intention to alter its course, I am compelled to state my position. Additional forbearance would be hypocrisy.
The organization’s decision seems to be governed by a warped notion of fiduciary rectitude rather than a sense of moral probity. Pious pronouncements about “inclusion”, “broader access”, and “disparities”, ring hollow when USGA is forced to confront vexing challenges. Unless USGA changes the venue for the 2017 event and severs its relationship with a blatant racist and misogynist, I have no alternative but to relinquish my association with the organization.
I request that you share the contents of this letter with members of the Executive Committee and senior members of the administrative staff.
With bitter disappointment and profound disenchantment.
Calvin H. Sinnette, M.D.
Dr. Calvin Sinnette is the author of Forbidden Fairways: African Americans and the Game of Golf and Emeritus Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at Howard University College of Medicine.
READ USGA RESPONSE HERE
Statements and opinions expressed in articles, reviews, blogs and other materials herein are those of the authors.
While every care has been taken in the compilation of this information and every attempt made to present up-to-date and accurate information, we cannot guarantee that inaccuracies will not occur. African American Golfer’s Digest will not be held responsible for any claim, loss, damage or inconvenience caused as a result of any information within these pages or any information accessed through this site.
The content of any organizations websites which you link to from African American Golfer’s Digest are entirely out of the control of this publication, and you proceed at your own risk. These links are provided purely for your convenience. They do not imply African American’s endorsement of or association with any products, services, content, information or materials offered by or accessible to you at the linked site(s).
All copyright and trade marks accessible via the links from African American Golfer’s Digest are owned by the respective website owners, or their licensors.
Please join us in a campaign to pressure the USGA and the PGA of America to sever their existing ties with Donald Trump and to cease holding major championships at his golf properties. We also urge the PGA Tour and the LPGA not to enter new partnerships with Donald Trump and his enterprises. Trump’s hateful rhetoric and exclusionary policy proposals are divisive and dangerous. Despite professed disagreement with his abhorrent views and statements, these leading golf institutions have continued doing business with him, and as such, they reward him materially and give him undeserved legitimacy.
Of particular concern is the U. S. Women’s Open (a major championship of the USGA) scheduled for Trump National Golf Club Bedminster (NJ) in July 2017. Considering Trump’s public denigration and demeaning of women, the choice of site is unjustifiable on moral and ethical grounds. The same applies to his negative characterizations of people of certain ethnic and religious groups. Women’s professional golf is highly international and represented by players of all manner of ethnicities, nationalities, and religions.
The PGA of America is committed to hosting two major championships at Trump golf properties. The first is the 2017 PGA Senior Championship at Trump National Golf Club DC and the second is the 2022 PGA Championship at Trump National Golf Club Bedminster. Both events are expected to attract significant international representation.
By signing below you will help us in our fight against bigotry, especially in the great game of golf. We also encourage you to reach out to the organizations listed below and make your personal feelings known. Repeated attempts at private and quiet persuasion to some have failed. Your loud and clear voices can make a difference and so can your actions.
Please direct your personal support of this campaign by SIGNING THE PETITION HERE along with addressing your letters to:
• Executive Director, United States Golf Association, 77 Liberty Corner Road, Far Hills, NJ 07931
• Executive Director, Professional Golfers Association of America, 100 Avenue of the Champions, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
• Commissioner, PGA Tour, 100 PGA Tour Boulevard, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
• Commissioner, Ladies Professional Golf Association, 100 International Golf Drive, Daytona Beach, FL 32124-1092
Organized by “Golfers Opposing Bigotry”
Campaign Coordinators:
Jeffrey T. Sammons
Professor of History New York University and Former Member of USGA Museum and Library Committee and its African American Golf Archive.
Calvin H. Sinnette, MD
Author of Forbidden Fairways: African Americans and the Game of Golf and Former Member of the USGA African American Golf Archive.
Cedrick Smith, MD
Inaugural Howard Creel Fellow of the USGA, two-time NMGCA All-America golfer at Hampton University and Golf Coaches of America Academic All-American in the early 1990s.
RELATED: Listen to the live interview on National and International Radio Show
(Disclaimer: African American Golfer’s Digest has not endorsed any of the candidates running for president of the Unites States. The above post is for news and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as an endorsement or non-endorsement of neither candidates. Therefore we are not encouraging or discouraging anyone from participating in the above petition.)
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July 1, 2016 | BY MICHAEL COOPER
Recently, I had the opportunity to catch up with an old friend of mine. He is Brandon Johnson, Vice President/Senior Golf Course Architect, for Arnold Palmer Design Company. Prior to joining the company in 2006, Brandon worked out of the PGA TOUR Design offices, but, was specifically assigned to golf course design work for The First Tee chapters. His portfolio is impressive, and he has worked on projects throughout the United States, as well as in China and Morocco.
I have known Brandon since 2002 when we met as co-workers and teammates at The First Tee. At the time, my primary responsibilities were developing and managing chapters in eight states throughout the southeast. I was one of five remote regional directors across the U.S., and Brandon was responsible for all The First Tee golf course designs.
We formed a talented team of professionals, driven by passion and purpose. Together, we exceeded organizational goals, and it was exhilarating to be part of a winning team!
We scheduled a 30-minute call to catch up with one another but wound up talking closer to 1.5 hours. Brandon talked about his wife and two children…now four and two years old. We laughed at how the years fly by, and the challenges of balancing family and work. He told me about how he remained involved with The First Tee by serving on the board at the local chapter in Orlando. We poked fun at how we both play less golf as the years go by, although Brandon still maintains a four handicap, playing out of Bay Hill CC.
Brandon Johnson and Arnold Palmer review golf course designs
Soon, our conversation turned to why so few black golf course architects. I mentioned two legends, Joseph Bartholomew and Dr. William Powell; both men of color and pioneers in the profession of golf course architecture. Brandon expressed admiration for both men.
I wanted to know more about Brandon’s golf background, and specifically about when and how he decided to become a golf course architect. I learned that he grew up in Charlotte, NC and began playing golf at the age of 12. He was introduced to golf by a friend who lived down the street, and he used an old set of clubs passed down from his father. Soon, he and his friend were a regular twosome at the local golf course; a scrubby, poorly conditioned facility that now is a housing development. Back then, green fees for youngsters were $3 per round, and Brandon would cut lawns to earn enough money to play golf. His golf skills improved and he made his high school golf team.
Brandon also had a love for art. He told me about his sister, who he said was a much better artist than him. Still, he loved to draw. He laughed as he told me stories about sitting in the classroom as a 14-year-old student, idly drawing golf courses. His parents recognized his love for golf and art and presented him with a picture book: Golf Courses of the PGA Tour. “I was completely blown away by Pete Dye,” he said. [Dye is a world renowned golf course architect].
A true love affair blossomed and Brandon enrolled at North Carolina State University, where he “blindly went into landscape architecture.” There, he met two professors. They took a personal interest in Brandon. The relationships grew and both became his mentors, and they remain in close contact today. Both professors were Harvard graduates, and they influenced him to go the same route. Brandon graduated from NC State, enrolled at Harvard, and earned his master’s degree in landscape architecture from the university in 1999. While a student at Harvard, Brandon had another life-changing experience.
Castle Stuart new course architects Brandon Johnson (Glasses) and Thad Leyton.
His skills and talents were ever-developing, and his network was getting broader. Brandon had an opportunity to participate in the PGA TOUR Minority Internship program, which was a popular entry point into the golf industry for minorities at that time. He took full advantage of the opportunity, and in fact, served three summer internships through the program.
As we spoke, he had fond memories of his experiences, and upon reflection, he called the names of several classmates who transitioned from the interns program to full-time employment and longstanding careers in the golf industry. This was in the late 1990’s, and at that time internship programs were a reliable entry point for minorities seeking a career in the golf industry. It’s unfortunate that the emphasis to intentionally prepare minorities for the golf industry plateaued during that timeframe, but began to slowly dissipate thereafter.
As we concluded our conversation, I asked what his most rewarding project had been. He told me it was helping to design the golf course at NC State University, his alma mater. I could hear the pride in his voice as he shared the experience with me. He mentioned that his parents and family were there for the grand opening, as were his former professors and mentors. Brandon said at that moment he had come “full circle,” and that he would forever cherish the opportunity to help design and create something so distinctive and meaningful, right there in the community where it all started.
Advocates Pro Tour players in front of Joseph Bartholomew statue in New Orleans
Finally, I asked him what he wanted his legacy to be. Without hesitation, he said: “To leave the world a better place than I found it…to make the space we occupy better.” Clearly, Brandon Johnson is not only at the top of his profession, but he also has a winning outlook on life. Like any true artist, his work is not just a job, and it’s not a career. Instead, his work happens to be his calling! I’m proud to call him my friend.
Send Michael a Comment!
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]
READ USGA RESPONSE HERE
Jeffrey T. Sammons, Ph.D. is a Professor of History at New York University, the author of Harlem’s Rattlers and the Great War: The Undaunted 369th Regiment and the African American Quest for Equality and is currently writing a book on race and golf. He was a member of the United States Golf Association’s Museum and Library Committee, and a founding member of the African American Golf Archive.
Statements and opinions expressed in articles, reviews, blogs and other materials herein are those of the authors.
While every care has been taken in the compilation of this information and every attempt made to present up-to-date and accurate information, we cannot guarantee that inaccuracies will not occur. African American Golfer’s Digest will not be held responsible for any claim, loss, damage or inconvenience caused as a result of any information within these pages or any information accessed through this site.
The content of any organizations websites which you link to from African American Golfer’s Digest are entirely out of the control of this publication, and you proceed at your own risk. These links are provided purely for your convenience. They do not imply African American’s endorsement of or association with any products, services, content, information or materials offered by or accessible to you at the linked site(s).
All copyright and trade marks accessible via the links from African American Golfer’s Digest are owned by the respective website owners, or their licensors.
Read more from Jeffrey T. Sammons Ph.D.: Black Golfers: A Wake-Up Call Before Your Next Tee Time
by AAGD STAFF
On June 30, 2016, The 100 Black Men of Greater Detroit hosted its First Annual Golf and Networking Outing. The purpose of the outing was to expose the community to their programs and the mission of the organization; network with individuals that have a passion for their community and want to share ideas on how to make a positive impact on youth, and just enjoy the game of golf!
“We had approximately 50 participants at the outing and luncheon,” said Ramone Crowe, Committee Chair, who performed the welcome to the attendees and the introduction of Chapter President Bill Luse. “Bill delivered a wonderful overview of our programs and talked about the impact the 100 Black Men of Greater Detroit is making in our community. We pinned two new members at the luncheon and met potential new ones.” Prizes were awarded for: longest drive, closest to the pin, and overall best team score for ladies and men.
The organization credits the success of its first event to the commitment of the golf committee members, Mark Elzy, Dennis Williams, Antoine Jackson, and to the leadership of Ramone Crowe, Committee Chair. “We would also like to give special thanks to our sponsors, Comerica Bank, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Engineered Buildings, Inc.,” stated Crowe.
The 100 Black Men of Greater Detroit, Inc. is a group of concerned African American men whose goal is to improve the quality of life in the African American community through their collective resources, abilities, and experiences. Recognizing the need to develop strong, vital and self-supporting communities, the organization has committed to helping African American youth achieve success in four (4) main focus areas: Mentoring, Education, Health & Wellness, Economic Development.
Contact:
100 Black Men of Greater Detroit, Inc.
1 Ford Place
Detroit, MI 48202
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: (313) 874-4811
Advocates Pro Tour has helped scores of aspiring tour players to gain experience and prepare for professional golf tours. Rallying that support is Hall of Fame former Ram, Eric Dickerson who confirmed his pledge in an announcement during June 2016.
The mission of the Advocates Pro Tour is to bring greater diversity to the game of golf by developing African Americans and other minorities for careers in golf. This will be accomplished through professional tournaments, career fairs and mentoring sessions.
To learn more about the Advocates Pro Tour or to get involved or to view the full schedule visit http://www.protour.advocatesgolf.org
Sisters Across America, Inc. held their 2016 Invitational at the renowned Reunion Golf Resort, Kissimmee, Florida, from May 20-22, 2016.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Sisters Across America, Inc., a charitable organization formed in Florida with 501 (c) 3 Status. The mission of the organization is to mentor and support minority female golfers who wish to pursue a professional golf career.
Photo: Sponsor Don Shin from Volvik (right)
with Sister Sally Sherman.
This 10th year anniversary Invitational had 85 players from all across the country, including Alabama, Texas, Louisiana, Michigan, California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Arizona, Maryland, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oregon, and Oklahoma.
These ladies enjoyed two rounds of golf, networking and fellowship with each other, as well as winning many prizes. 2016 Invitational major sponsors included Volvik, Busome and Integrity Golf.
Congratulations to the Winners of the 2016 Sisters Across America Invitational!
Pictured: 2016 Championship Winner
Lynda Donahue
Championship Flight
1st Low Gross: Lynda Donahue (170)
2nd Low Gross: Esther Wilson (scorecard playoff 171)
1st Low Net: Lena Tice (141)
2nd Low Net: Helen Smith (scorecard playoff 144)
1st Flight
1st Low Gross: Cynthia Joubert (188)
2nd Low Gross: Darlene Cooper (scorecard playoff 190)
1st Low Net: Jewel Braswell (140)
2nd Low Gross: Lucile Pernell (141)
2nd Flight
1st Low Gross: Thelma Price (192)
2nd Low Gross: Renee Walker (202)
1st Low Net: Gloria Howard (145)
2nd Low Gross: Sally Sherman (149)
3rd Flight
1st Low Gross: Dollie Hill (scorecard playoff 213)
2nd Low Gross: Rosalind Thomas (scorecard playoff 213)
1st Low Net: Janelle Cole (Scorecard playoff 139)
2nd Low Net: Nancy McLaurin (scorecard playoff 139)
Above: Dolls and Guys of Invitational
Above: President, Esther Wilson
Honorable Mentions
Overall Low Gross Saturday, Watson Course: Annie Ewings (85)
Overall Low Gross Sunday, Palmer Course: Esther Wilson (80)
Above L-R: Cynthia Marcy and DeAnna Hampton
To learn more about Sisters Across America, Inc., our mission, 2017 tournament, our mentee, Ginger Howard, please visit our website at: www.sistersacrossamerica.com.
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. (June 28, 2016) – Golf Channel will broadcast highlights of the 30th PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship presented by CastleOak Securities, starting Wed., June 29, at 11 p.m. ET.
Contested each May at PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, Florida, the 2016 Championship featured a rare Men’s Division I playoff between Bethune-Cookman and Tennessee State, as well as a record-setting fifth straight title by Bethune-Cookman’s women’s team.
Leading the way for the Wildcats was Women’s Team Division medalist, freshman Shamiso Hatchard, who earned an exemption into this week’s Symetra Tour Tullymore Classic in Canadian Lakes, Michigan. She edged out Tiana Jones, of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, although Jones’s three-day total of 223 earned her the Women’s Individual Invitational Champion title.
After three days and 216 holes, Bethune-Cookman and Tennessee State University were implausibly tied. Bethune-Cookman emerged as Men’s Division I champions, having required just 20 shots during the playoff to Tennessee State’s 21. Still, Tennessee State’s Drew Owens was named Men’s Division I Team Medalist.
In Men’s Division II, Cal State University-Dominguez Hills took home a team title for the second time in as many years, while Philip Harrison, a sophomore at Livingstone College in Salisbury, North Carolina, was the Division II Medalist. In addition, the University of Houston-Victoria, at 954, won the NAIA Division. And at 225, Siyan Liu, of Palm Beach Atlantic University, earned the first individual collegiate title of his career in the Men’s Individual Invitational.
The PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship has elevated minority golf by providing the students of HBCU’s and minority serving colleges and universities the opportunity to compete in a national championship. In 2006, the PGA of America was granted complete ownership and management by the National Minority Collegiate Golf Scholarship Fund.
Golf Channel will present encore replays of the 30th PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship presented by CastleOak Securities Highlight Show on Tues., July 5 at 2 p.m. ET; and Wed. Aug. 31 at noon ET.
About the PGA of America
Celebrating its Centennial, the PGA of America represents the very best in golf. For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGA.org, follow @PGAofAmerica on Twitter, and find us on Facebook.
Contact: John Dever, PGA of America, 561-624-7693,[email protected]