Motivated by a desire to learn and enjoy the game of golf, 10 aspiring females joined approximately 28 other guests at the Annual Spring Membership Recruitment Reception, sponsored by the Professional Women Golf Association (PWGA). The event, held at 6 p.m., Friday, March 21 at Highland Park Golf Course Clubhouse, showcased the activities and accomplishments of PWGA since its inception in 2001 as Birmingham’s first and only female African-American Golf Association. Photo displays of these accomplishments adorned the walls of the clubhouse and were viewed excitedly by guests in attendance.
The reception began with greeting by Gloria Dennard, PWGA’s President, followed by a welcome to Highland Golf Course and an introduction to Highland’s golf program for beginners by Matt Jones, Head Golf Professional. A surprise to the guests and members was the appearance of SIAC Commissioner, Gregory Moore from Atlanta. Commissioner Moore complimented the success of the efforts of PWGA in golf for women and announced the upcoming Collegiate Golf Championship which will be held in Birmingham, April 21-23. He, also, distributed to all present SIAC’s Centennial Commemorative Cokes, designed by Coca-Cola Company.
Shella Sylla of SistersGolf.com shared thoughts on the various merits of golf for women, followed by Sherrel Stewart, who shared some history of her family as golf trailblazers. Earlie Simmons and Veronica Bryant shared the purpose, history, and membership information about PWGA, and presented door prizes, along with Fran Carson and Evelyn Hayes. Some other guests seen networking, fellowshipping , and enjoying the delectable refreshments catered by Michael Glenn, Catering by Ambrosia, included: Cassie Ferguson, Candice Reese, Shirley Taylor, Michelle Williams, Carole Johnson, Gloria Tyson, Terri Richardson, Cynthia Glenn, Corine Williams, Dorothy Wilson, and Alice Gordon. Also spotted enjoying themselves were PWGA golf practice coaches: Jordan Frazier, Alvin Washington, Arthur Bailey, Walter Thomas, and Jim Fisher. The fun evening ended in guest participation in hands-on practice of basic golf skills, led by PWGA golf coaches.
PWGA is an organization of professional women united to learn and promote the game of golf for females. For more information, contact gdennard2@aol.com.
