The Bushnell family of laser rangefinders are used by 87% of Champions Tour players and their caddies. It’s the smallest, most compact, golf GPS unit available is also one of simplest and easiest to use providing distance to the front, center and back of the green, at a glance, and stores up to 10 courses. Download courses from iGolf.com or use it to map any course in the world-with no additional fees or computer needed. Lower scores are just a glance away! MSRP $149. www.bushnellgolf.com.
Our editors absolutely love the Twist-Tee! They swear, it brought consistency to their game and gave them extra yardage. It has an amazing feel and stays in place when put into the ground and easily twists to the exact height for your next stroke. Conforms to USGA statndards. It will outlast many other tees, with its virtually indestructable design and material. Price for a package of 2 large tees and 1 small tee is $5 each. Individual tees are $2.25. Bulk with logo are less.
www.twistteegolf.com
This a line of exciting golf gloves for both professionals and aficionados alike featuring a variety of original motifs.
Offered for men, women and children in a range of sizes, the gloves are a blend of genuine lamb leather and nylon detailed with the choice of 30 color graphics, particularly national flags.
MSRP: $19.00
www.Easy-Glove.com
Showcase your love for golf in relaxing comfort and unique style with these adorable flip-flops. You’ll romp in pleasure with these lightweight shoes, adorned with golf balls, a set of small clubs, and of course, a hole-in-one- flag. MSFP $20.00 www.HotFlops.net
Many golfers are choosing to wear the new Shock Doctor insole line to support their feet while out on the course. The insoles were originally designed for athletes of other sports, such as running, hiking, basketball, ice hockey, etc., however, there are several products in the Active and Sports line that benefit golfers tremendously by offering performance and protection through game-changing technology: The Cleat: provides great support on uneven soft surfaces; the Active Ultra: the control bar, support
However there are several products in the Active and Sports line that benefit golfers tremendously by offering performance and protection through game-changing technology: The Cleat: provides great support on uneven soft surfaces; the Active Ultra: the control bar, support cap and shock pads provide great stability, support and cushioning for walking and side to side movement; the Active Impact: provides cushion and comfort for long periods of walking and standing. The insoles are available in women’s and men’s sizes. ShockDoctor.com
Louisiana’s African American Heritage Trail:
They blazed many trails. Now you can retrace their footsteps.
For centuries, African Americans in Louisiana have changed the world with their ideas, art, and action. From street corners and marketplaces, to churches and cafés, to universities and beyond—Louisiana’s new African American Heritage Trail takes you to the places that have inspired generations to add their unique flavor to the world.

The tomb of Homer Plessy in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
From the first fights against oppression to the first notes of jazz.
Along the trail, tour stately plantations and find out about the slaves’ craftsmanship, ingenuity, family life, and resistance.
Evergreen’s complex of twenty-two original slave cabins offers tremendous insight into life and work on a plantation.
Discover the Cane River Creoles, descendants of French settlers and enslaved African Americans who intermingled on the isolated frontier of Northwest Louisiana. Visit the battlefield where African American troops took up arms to fight against the Confederacy

Learn about the life and works of Arna Bontemps, whose boyhood memories of Alexandria inspired many of his literary works.
Learn about Homer Plessy’s refusal to move from the “whites only” section of a Louisiana rail car and the landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling that followed. Then walk the streets where jazz was born and explore the roots of this amazing musical form.
Discover the personalities that led the way.
Share the story of Madam C. J. Walker, who rose from a humble upbringing in rural Louisiana to become America’s first self-made female millionaire.
Visit the birthplace of Arna Bontemps, a leading writer in the Harlem Renaissance. Find out about P. B. S. Pinchback, who became America’s first black governor—in 1872! Pay tribute to gospel legend and New Orleans native Mahalia Jackson. Then take a ride to Grambling State University, best known for the long and storied career of head football coach Eddie Robinson, one of the most respected and beloved coaches in American history.
This is only the beginning.
If you love Louisiana for its food, music, and fun, the African American Heritage Trail is yet another great reason to visit. There is so much more to see and do and explore.
Start your journey online at LouisianaTravel.com/AfricanAmericanHeritageTrail
Or call 1-800-47-GUMBO for your free Louisiana Tour Guide.
DAYTONA BEACH: FUN IN THE SUN
By Ronald Smith
The idyllic city of Daytona Beach is literally build on a rich history steeped investment moguls and local culture, having originally caught the attention of northern tycoons back in the 1800s. The destination proved favorable to fast-track entrepreneurs ranging from Matthias Day to John D. Rockefeller and it is definitely a place that everyone should experience in their lifetime.
You’ll feel like you’re reliving the history of our past when you stop at the African Heritage Museum, where artifacts included a large display of everyday tools used and created by African Americans, from the pencil sharpener and spark plug to the golf tee, door knob, hot comb and even the fountain pen
The creativity and advanced thinking and ideas of African Americans are found throughout the museum, where photos line the walls and a list of contributions made by us is exemplified.
Remember, it was right here in Daytona where baseball legend and avid golfer Jackie Robinson played in the first integrated spring training baseball game with the Montreal Royals in March of 1947. (The Royals were a farm team of the Brooklyn Dodgers.)
Unlike several other cities in Florida, Daytona Beach permitted Robinson to play in their more liberal city, thus opening the door for African Americans to play in the major leagues. Now, the Jackie Robinson Ball Park, originally built in 1914 and known as City Island Ball Park, is the home of the Daytona Cubs and the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats

Cuban Art at theMuseum of Arts & Sciences
The overly spacious Arts & Sciences Museum is home to everything from Rare Cuban Artwork (pre-Castro) to the largest display of Cola-Cola artifacts (second only to Atlanta, GA). Here at the Arts & Sciences Museum you’ll find a mint condition 17th century piano, silverware and jewelry all used by kings and queens of the past. Strangely, the exhibit reminded me of how quickly my golf stroke seems to be aging and asking for a tune-up.
Next, it was on to Daytona’s most well known and most popular attraction, the Daytona 500 Speedway. Adjacent to the world renowned Daytona 500 racetrack, which also host other races such as the Coke Zero, you can experience the Coca-Cola IMAX Theater, do a hands on actual pit stop, or even try the Ultimate Richard Petty Driving experience. You’ll also be able to walk through the galleries and view the amazing historical display of Dayton 500 cars
At the Daytona Lagoon your discover the county’s largest arcade with a fantastic laser tag arena, go-karts, 18-hole miniature golf course, a rock-climbing wall and seasonally operated water park.
Onward to Bethune-Cookman University, established in 1904 to educate the daughters of African-American workers on the railroads, this historic landmark was also the home of the university’s founder and civil rights activist, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. The home operates as a museum with tours by appointment and Bethune’s gravesite attracts visitors year-round.
Yes, Daytona Beach is not only exciting and fun, but you can feel the history, sense its struggle, and witness the advancement of African Americans throughout this great city.
For a comfortable stay, check into the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Hotel and enjoy a meal at the upscale Hyde Park restaur
Putting Edge Fun Centers provide an active entertainment experience for players of all ages. Colourful glow in the dark surroundings and upbeat music add a whole new dimension to the game of miniature golf.

PUTTING EDGE FUN CENTERS
Putting Edge provides an unparallel alternative to existing entertainment options and a high quality experience within its locations across North America.
FUN, IMAGINATION and ACTIVITY!
The excitement of glow-in-the-dark mini golf at its best! A great place for Birthday Parties, Group Events or a FUN night out with friends and family
Wet ‘n Wild – Orlando
This experience was voted by Amusement Business magazine as America’s number – one water park, features a full-day of fun for the entire family. Honored by Aquatic’s International as the first true water park, Wet ‘n Wild’s world-class signature thrill rides and quality service offer something for fun-lovers of all ages, with over 30 action-packed acres of slides and flumes, surf and sun

Mike Ditka Resorts Lighthouse Key Resort and Spa
Inviting, Illuminating, Enchanting
Imagine a destination where superior service and opulent surroundings combine to provide an experience designed to enchant your imagination. Here, the long, sunny days wrap themselves around you as you experience the theme parks, attractions, golf and nearby beaches. It is a world where time stands still in a perpetual vacation, where the only question is when you should return.
This exquisite, luxury property provides all the exclusive amenities of a four-star resort nestled on the shores of a 69-acre lake and just 2.5 miles from the entrance to Walt Disney® World.
www.lighthousekeyresortorlando.com
Boston Lobster Feast
Home of the ’All You Can Eat Seafood and Lobster Feast’
(and Prime Rib, Sushi and Crab Legs)
Buy a Boston Lobster Feast Gift Card Online.
Makes a great Gift!
The World Famous Boston Lobster Feast is now celebrating 18 years in Orlando! What started with a couple of lobsters and a dream has become three restaurants, millions of lobsters and lots of great, friendly service.
Now we’ve added to the feast…more than 60 items! We have fried, grilled & broiled fish of all kinds, big piles of shrimp, crab, mussels, crawfish, oysters, New England Clam Chowder, Manhattan Clam Chowder, lobster bisque, New England Steamers, littleneck clams, fried clams, smoked salmon, vegetables, corn on the cob, London Broil, Roast Beef, pasta and all the Maine Lobster you can eat! If you have room, you can visit our all-you-can-eat dessert bar with key lime pie, pecan torte, chocolate cake, cheesecake & chocolate chip cookies.
There’s a kids menu with steaks & chicken if you’re not in the mood for lobster. We even have a full service bar. You and your family are welcome anytime.
The Evolution of Grand Maragity to Grand Marais Golf Club
By Antoinette Miller

(L-R) Houston Topps, Director of Golf with Bob Bonner, President, Grand Marais Golf Course.
Despite the blatant appearance of jagged fairways, overgrown areas and under managed greens that many abandoned, businessman Bob Bonner, foresaw prime land that had character, beauty and invaluable potential.
With the insight and ambition of his partners: Houston Topps and Willie Williams, the three put forth a plan to greatly transform the course and enlighten the city of East St. Louis.
Founded in 1936, Grand Marias Golf Club, formerly loathed as “Grand Maragity” for its less than attractive appearance has evolved at the hands of true inspiration and dedication. “I saw an old course that was really run down and felt an obligation to do something,” proclaimed Bonner.
A true golf fan will not be able to rest when he sees an old club that has fallen on hard times. Where some might see weeds and hard work, Bonner saw potential for introducing the local community to the charms and delights of golf. If we’re a fan and feverishly follow basketball, golf or poker news it’s sometimes hard to imagine that everyone doesn’t share out enthusiasm, so Bob Bonner decided to take golf to the people. Those who might never have considered playing golf would surely come to love the sport.
As a local business owner, real estate investor, franchisee of the world renowned McDonald’s and golfer, Bonner is no stranger to investing in something that he truly believes in. Subsequently, at age 53 with a few dollars in his pocket and much needed support, the renovation of the club began.
The club was once a thriving establishment that served many golfers in East St. Louis. But after previous management lost it to bankruptcy, Bonner took the initiative to take it over. “The potential was so great, there is a lot of history on that piece of land but it was let go for so long,” says Bonner.
Through extensive clean up and tremendous upgrading the full service club is now equipped with a pro shop, pool, tennis courts, Soul Food restaurant, has a view of the downtown skyline from the #1 fairway, as well as the amazing discoveries of a pond and two peninsulas.
Moreover, with excellent business savvy and incredible teamwork Bonner, Williams, and Topps have successfully executed Grand Marias’ conversion.
They spend a lot of time talking about the course and business with each other while getting in five or six holes. “I just love those guys that I work with, they don’t just put up with me, they understand me,” stated Topps.
Houston Topps is a longtime golfer and Grand Marias’s general manager. “I am impressed with his standards, when thinking of someone to appoint, I felt he had what it takes to handle the job,” expressed Bonner.
Grand Marias’s possibilities are dramatically endless. The club participates in many tournaments such as: Ronald McDonald Children’s Charity, Cardinals Care Kids Care and St. Louis Cardinals. And more importantly, Bonner is working hard toward making it extra special in a community where 99.97 of the population is African American. He aspires to make the East St. Louis High School students deeply involved in golf and has also put forth efforts to implement a program in the juvenile syste

As a final note, Bonner’s goal is to make the equity owners.
For more information on Grand Marias Golf Club, visit their wesite: www.GrandMariasGolfCourse.com or contact Houston Topps at 618-398-9999 and Bob Bonner at [email protected].
Hidden Golf Palaces of Michigan
by Kim Rojas
Appropriately named, Traverse City, Michigan’s newly renovated airport is the crossover point for the golf experience of a lifetime.
True golf enthusiasts know about the championship courses peppered among the 900 clubs throughout the northern part of the state; but now the secret’s out!
Designers such as Tom Fazio, Robert Trent Jones, Arnold Palmer and many more knew Michigan’s potential when designing fabulous courses throughout the entire peninsula, always a place of glorious summer weather.
Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville is breathtaking on its two courses; a third course will be complete in 2008. Celebrating 50 years in adventure in northern Michigan, Crystal Mountain has what families want. The traditional Scottish Village charm is always a pull, but it’s the courses that keep them coming back. Carved out of heavy forest with expansive bunkers and beguiling water hazards, both courses are certain to be a challenge but still playable for juniors 7-14 years old and the club prices shows its commitment to youth and the sport.
In a natural balance of resort luxury and the desire for the game in Lewiston, the gates of Garland Resort welcome the most enthusiastic golfers. The 3500 acres of unspoiled wilderness are home to foxes, deer, and even a pair of eagles with their eaglet baby! Drive a straight line at Garland, though; sixteen of the 18 holes on the Fountain course have water on them! The three other courses are equally as challenging but also rewarding; 83 people have sunk aces on these courses this year.
After one or more satisfying rounds of golf, enjoy the spa or the deluxe accommodations offered at the resort. Because Garland is a family-owned operation, often keeping its employees for many years, guests enjoy above-and-beyond service, which is nice at the end of the day. The food is superb and not over-priced. And though the resort runs year-round with winter sports and fun, the four golf courses, all of which are accessible to the one pro shop are its highlight.
Gaylord is right in step with top-name Michigan golf resorts with the Treetops Resort, personally named by Robert Trent Jones. If not for the opulent spa and unequaled accommodations available in addition to the onsite daycare and Junior Golf Clinics, Treetops might be viewed as the guys’ resort.
It’s a tough game out there! Tom Fazio’s “Premier” course is a must-golf layout with lots of hilly fairways, raised greens and strategically placed bunkers.
Threetops, home of the Par 3 Shootout was voted the #1 par 3 course in the nation. Some may remember that it was here on “High Five” hole number 7 that Lee Trevino hit the million dollar hole-in-one, the most lucrative golf shot in history!
Some resorts offer astounding cuisine such as the Otsego Lake Club, nearby Treetops.
Guests don’t simply eat there – they dine after a rewarding round of golf. Award-winning menu choices include Hong Kong Steak with wasabi sauce, New Zealand Lamb, Gazpacho and more! The world comes to your table at Otsego; and everything is made right on site including the bread and rolls. Even the menus are printed on site so there are no surprises when ordering.
These hidden treasure golf resorts in northern Michigan cater to their guests providing year round sports for every season including the silent sports such as kayaking, canoeing, hiking, biking and horseback riding. The only thing missing is the tension.
Michiganders (as they are called) are among America’s most hospitable community and visitors instantly feel the hearty welcome that stays in one’s memory for many years to come.
- www.crystalmountain.com
- www.garlandusa.com
- www.treetops.com
- www.otsegoclub.com
- www.shantycreek.com

Southern Michigan
By Willie Simmons, Jr.
Southern Michigan has fantastic golf and it is a land of all types of non-stop recreation: hiking, water/snow/jet skiing, canoe-kayaking, surfing mountain/road biking, fishing, white water rafting, entertainment, the arts, shopping, food and wine. Whey! Before you jump into your vehicle, make sure you have your equipment (and appetite all packed and prepared.
Give-or-take a few, I highly recommend this trek for at least 7 days, giving yourself ample time for exploring some great courses inside of our borders while discovering the local flair of Southern Michigan.
Begin in South Haven, located on the Eastern shore of Micigan. You can treat yourself to a delicious meal at the Harbor Side Bistro and enjoy casual dining in the heart of downtown. For your first night, find comfort at the beautiful and historic Victoria Resort Bed & Breakfast inn located just steps away from Lake Michigan. Here you can borrow bikes or take a dip in the pool. The evening sunsets are a sight to behold. At morning, breakfast is a scrumptious mix of special locally produced sausage with eggs, potatoes and other delights. Best follow it up with a brisk walking tour of South Haven’s downtown shopping area.
Tee off mid-morning at HawksHead Golf Club, a part 72, Championship links-style course that’s part of Michigan’s Author Hills Golf Trail. You can enjoy a lunch of paesano bread, lobster bisque, crab cakes, a small nest of greens, and for the entrée, I highly recommend small catch grouper or the roasted tenderloin. For your sweet tooth, the chocolate chip ‘gooey’ cake is a tasteful wonder.
Friends are easily met, and you could find yourself at a beach party picnic dinner in front of the Mich-Mona-Mac Lakeshore Cottages. The refurbished cottages are perfect for a romantic getaway. For alternative lodging, check-in at the Inn at HawksHead. It’s a restored historic family-owned English Tudor revival-style mansion.
Lake Michigan Hills Golf Club (Benton Harbor, MI) is a gem of a course. It was designed by Charles Maddox, is names Southwest Michigan’s top public course and is located just 90 minutes from Chicago. The course will test your skills and reward you fairly.
Berrien Hills Golf Course (Benton Harbor, MI) was established in 1920 and it has been one of Southwest Michigan’s premium country clubs. For the first time during its 83 year history it is open to the public and offers traditional golf in a lush riverfront setting. Afterwards, reward yourself with a stay at the Boulevard Inn in St. Joseph, Michigan. It’s known for its top-rated lodgings.
The Yarrow Golf & Conference Center (Augusta, Michigan) is a links-style course with wide fairways that is closely tied to the rolling natural topography and set amidst natural vegetation of Scotch pine, hardwoods and native shrubs and grasses. The property offers an excellent site to conduct golf tournaments, corporate meetings/retreats or have family reunions.
Gull Lake View Golf Complex (Augusta, Michigan) features five championship courses, lodging, dining, event facilities. Be sure to play both the East and West courses. The East has 10 unique water holes while the West is a mix of fields, hills, valleys, woods and ponds. The resort is the oldest and largest in Southwest Michigan, and the greens are all lush and well groomed with breath-taking scenic views.
Over at the Medalist Golf Club (Marshall, Michigan) you’ll discover a links-style course that features a landscape of almost 300 acres lovingly etched over rolling terrain with majestic trees. Here strategic shot-making is a requirement.
In Jackson County, play the Grand Golf Club. It is a mix of strategy and beauty with 18 memorable holes that have been honored by Golf Digest as one of the “Best New Affordable Courses in America.”
Next up, you must play the Pierce Lake Golf Course (Chelsea, Michigan). Its rolling terrain, scenic vistas, quality amenities and reasonable fees will give you an exceptional golfing experience. Hole 18 (3 par) is considered the signature and hole 18 is noted for being one of Michigan’s great golf holes.
All of the golf courses I played during this road trip were championship caliber. They are highly rated by the United States Golf Association and at one time the State of Michigan had the distinction of having more golf courses per capita than any other state in the nation.
Willie L. Simmons, Jr.
is President and Founder of the Northern California Minority Junior Golf Scholarship Association based in Sacramento, CA and a member of the Editorial Advisory Board for the African American Golfer’s Digest.
He can be contacted at (916) 812-7744 or by email at [email protected]
Tennessee Golf Trail Offers Great Golfing That’s Sure To Please
By Jessie Brooks
Known as the “volunteer state,” Tennessee has great golf in some wonderful, little out of the way places. Volunteerism was very important during the war of 1812, as President Andrew Jackson needed all of the troops that he could muster up get while fighting the battle of New Orleans.
If you fly into Nashville, the Doubletree hotel (located downtown) is a spacious and comfortable place to lay down your clubs and, Doubletree is well-known for their delicious chocolate chip cookies.

BLACKBERRY RIDGE GOLF CLUB is great for those who are near Shelbyville. We found the greens to be in good shape; some of the fairways were hard with bare spots. The course is challenging and a deal at $32.00 w/cart summer and $25.00 w/cart during the winter months.
TRACE, located at Tim’s Ford in Winchester, is a Jack Nicklaus designed course. This course is one of five Bear Trace golf courses on the Tennessee Golf Trail. Expect great things here; you won’t be disappointed. Nicklaus placed deep bunkers in strategic locations and the fairways are wide enough to miss most bunkers with decent tee shots. There aree deep bunkers in front of the greens; a wayward approach may find water. The course is fun to play from the white tees and provide a challenge from the back tees. It plays at a bargain: $32.00 weekdays, $42.00 weekends/holidays. There’s also great bass fishing with cabins and pontoon boats for rental. While in Winchester, visit Arezzo’s restaurant, located on the Square. Their extensive Italian menu is delicious and provides a great option for fine dining in a small town.
CLAX BRANCH, located in Loretta, is a shot-makers course. Designer Bob Hamerline created a course that is fun to play with plenty of risk-reward holes. Number 10 is a 370-yard, par 5. The first shot is a 175-yard lay up. The second shot is 210-yard carry over water or 80 yard lay up to the right. The third shot is a 100-yard shot to the green. Number 11 is a 350-yard, par 5.
The tee shot is a 135-yard lay up with a 90 degree left turn. The second shot is down a narrow fairway, the green is located in a bluff that you cannot see until you drive to the end of the fairway and look down. (You can leave the driver in the bag on these two holes.) Even those without course knowledge can get a high score here. Rates are an attractive: $24.00 weekdays, $30.00 weekends/holidays.
BEAR TRACE AT ROSS CREEK LANDING in Clifton is the fifth and newest course on the Bear Trace. The course was sold to private investors, and the plan surround it with villas. Bear Trace was recently named one of the best public access golf courses by Golf Week Magazine. While located off the beaten path, the Jack Nicklaus signature course is well worth the trip. This championship course has a 74.7/137 rating/slope from the back tees at 7131 yards.
The course has both left and right doglegs with water coming into play on 10 holes. It’s beautiful and makes you want to play your best golf. The signature hole is #10, with water on the left and right of the landing area. The green is on a peninsula, which requires an accurate second shot. Writing about this course doesn’t do it justice. It is a must play to be fully appreciated. Visit www.RossCreekLandingGolfClub.com.

In Clifton, visit Meo Mio’s in nearby Bath Springs for good Cajun food– the red beans ‘n rice and jambalaya, very good and spicy!
PICKWICK LANDING STATE PARK GOLF COURSE is a traditional course, and all holes are tree-lined with out of bounds guards on eleven of the holes. Water comes into play on eight of the holes. The signature hole #2 is a 396 yard, par 4 with out of bounds protecting the entire right side. In addition to the golf, one good thing about this destination is there is lodging at the nearby Pickwick Inn, with rooms facing the Tennessee River it offers a great view of the river and marina. Greens fees:$34.00 w/cart in season. Visit www.tngolftrail.net.
SHILOH FALLS GOLF CLUB is just two miles from Pickwick Landing. This is a championship golf course designed by Jerry Pate and Fred Couples. The fairways are tree-lined with rolling terrain, views of the Tennessee River, elevation changes, plenty of bunkers and of course water on eight holes. Hole #15, the signature hole, features a 55-foot natural waterfall behind the green and a change in elevation of 88 feet from tee to green. Standing on the tee box is a picture perfect moment. Shiloh Falls has a beautiful clubhouse and the wonderful Links Restaurant. Be sure to try Amy’s beer batter bread and home made clam chowder soup. Green fees: $24.00 Monday-Thursday, $31.80 Friday/Sunday, $38.80 on Saturdays. A hotel package is available. Visit www.ShilohFallsGolf.com.
After playing Tennessee’s golf trails, make time to enjoy Nashville and relish in its culture. Nashville’s Frist Center for the Visual Arts is an educational Art Museum, with exhibits that change throughout the year. To fully appreciate the works of art, take a tour of the museum with a Docent, an articulate member of the museum team, offering visitors an intelligent introduction to the exhibits. Docent Mancil Ezell, works onsite and is an excellent interpreter of style and art.
Do you believe that a Post Office could be a work of art? Well, the Union Station Hotel has a clear décor connection to the Art Museum, remodeled with bright colors and draperies. The 125 rooms are all unique and the hotel is conveniently located near nightclubs for a variety of lively music.
Chappys Restaurant is excellent for fine dining with a New Orleans-style flair. The chef makes everything fresh and puts his heart and soul into every meal. www.chappys.com.
Put Tennessee on your “must-do” list…challenging, beautiful, and competitive courses; great food; entertaining sights and more make it a place for a great vacation.

































