Golfing to create change

Golfers from various walks of life gathered last weekend for the Be the Change Golf Tournament at Theodore Wirth Park.

The Be the Change MN (BTC) initiative was co-founded by John Baker and Houston White, two community leaders in North Minneapolis. The tournament, now in its third year, serves as a fundraising event. It continues to grow each year.

 The networking event unites influential people in the Twin Cities to engage in important conversations about how to better and rebuild the community in the wake of George Floyd’s murder. All proceeds go to supporting young people and families in the Twin Cities metro area and the community-based nonprofits, according to the website.

The September 3 event drew local notable community leaders, including Minneapolis Fire Chief Bryan Tyner, World Champion boxers Caleb Truax and Jamal James, Sheletta Brundidge of the “ShelettaMakesMeLaugh.com” podcasting platform, and more.   

The tournament started at 10 am and ended at 5 pm. Once the golfing was done, BTC had a VIP Dinner reception with an award ceremony.

Singer Ray Covington started the evening by serenading the crowd from the balcony chalet. KMOJ’s very own Walter “Q Bear” Banks entertained the audience with the smooth sounds of easy-listening music. Henry Lake served as emcee.

There was an all-star lineup of speakers, performers, and sponsors who offered speeches, and an award ceremony, raffle, and auction.

Trophies were given to the first, second, and third-place winners of the tournament. They also gave prizes to the longest putt, closest to the pin, and to the centerline. Toro lawnmowers were among the items BTC raffled off.

There was also a live jersey signing from MN Twins’ baseball great Tony Oliva. What a way to end a great day of golf for a worthy cause.

For more info, visit bethechangemn.com.

See photos of the day below by Steve Floyd.