The Duke Children's Golf Classic...For The Children.

This past weekend (May 18-20) I attended the 33rd annual Duke Children's Celebrity Golf Classic, held in Durham, North Carolina. This event is held on the prestigious Duke University campus golf coarse. This is my (8th) attendance to this tournament, that is held for a cause for children with disabilities,health care and birth defects. This classic is truly one that has gain my full support and commitment. Not only is it for a wonderful cause, but I get to hang out with wonderful commited celebrities in the entertainment and sports industry.

This is also a time for me to reconnect, share and spend time, with members of the Duke athletic family past and present such as Joe Alleva, Jeff Mullins, Bob Harris, Johnny Dawkins, Grant Hill and Coach K, to name few. I also reunite with my former teammates from the 78' NCAA runner-up championship Duke Blue Devils such as Mike Gminski, Kenny Dennard and Steve Gray. Even though many of the stars spend the most part on the golf coarse trying to display their Tiger-less like abilities, I on the other hand, have been hosting the "Putting With The Stars" segment of the weekend. This segment portion is for the children with the disabilities where they will attend the golf coarse at a designated putting area and each and every celebrity comes over to that area and putt with the children and have loads of fun. I like this especially because I am working directly with the children and having tons of fun. I enjoy the golf , but I enjoy hanging and playing with the children much more.

The Duke Children's Classic began in 1974 by three men. Dr. Samuel L. Katz, Dr. John Griffin and former Duke basketball coach Bucky Waters. This events was formed to raise money for the Duke Hospital for the needs of children. Just to think, back then, the three men rasied $5, 284 dollars and now, it has grown to great porportions of donations and support. Many past celebrities have given of their time and support. Names like Perry Como, Chet Atkins, President Gerald Ford, Arnold Palmer, Frank Sinatra, Jay Leno, Michael Jordan and Dinah Shore have been apart of the Duke Children's Classic and the kids. Now, the classic is hosted by the renowned comedian and celebrity Jeff Foxworthy. I feel so blessed to have spent quality time sharing, talking and laughing with such a taented and giving man as Foxworthy. He is even funnier in person. But what sets him apart from everything else, is his heart and passion for the kids and the classic. I feel honored to be asked to be apart of something so wonderful and true.

Words cannot describe what the weekend does to my spirit in giving back and supporting such a worthy cause. And on top of that...I have such fun and joy. If you don't do anything else, go to the website of the classic http://www.dukechildrens.org/ and read, digest and enjoy the material and information (and pictures) of this wonderful event. But I also like to say this as well. Take time to support the Duke Children's Classic either financially or with your service and you will see what a difference, you can make.

2006-2007 Celebrities
Duke Children's Classic.

Joe Alleva, director of athletics for Duke University, oversees one of the most successful programs in the NCAA. He was an All-American quarterback at Lehigh University in 1974 and also lettered in baseball during his college career. Joe came to Duke in 1976 and joined the Athletic Department in 1980. He was named Duke's sixth director of athletics in 1998.

Gene Banks was one of Duke Basketball’s all-time greats and a two-time All-American. Gene began his professional basketball career playing for the San Antonio Spurs from 1981 through 1985. He went on to play for the Chicago Bulls until 1987. Gene packed his bags and traveled the globe where he played in the professional leagues in France, Argentina and Israel. In 1994, Gene was inducted into the Duke Sports Hall of Fame. Upon returning to the United States, he started the GENE BANKS LEAGUE of Greensboro, which is geared toward underprivileged youth.

Matt Blair was one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history. Following his senior year at Iowa State, Blair was a second-round pick in the NFL draft of the Minnesota Vikings. He was a six-time Pro Bowler and starred in two Super Bowls with the Vikings. He holds the NFL record for blocked kicks. Currently Matt is president of Matt Blair’s Celebrity Promotions, an event and marketing company. In November Matt released his book TO BE a VIKING with a portion of the proceeds going to Special Olympics Minnesota.

Jack Boston of Y102.9 found instant gratification in radio after a failed acting career. He has worked at famous radio stations in New York City, Birmingham, Myrtle Beach and other decadent tourist stops. His last stop—before moving to the Triangle to be close to his wife—was Star 104.7 in Charlotte.

Rod Broadway is currently the head football coach at North Carolina Central University. His college football days began at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he was named to the All-ACC Football Team. After college, he went on to play professional football in the Canadian Football League. Rod has since then served as an assistant football coach at UNC-CH, the University of Florida and Duke University.

Joey Browner spent most of his NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings. The defensive back earned six trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro and All-NFC selection four times from 1983-1991. A force to be reckoned with, Joey recorded 1,096 tackles and 37 interceptions in his Vikings career.

Joey Calderazzo has been on the jazz scene for the past 15 years. He has played piano for jazz greats Curtis Lundy, Michael Brecker, Jerry Bergonzi and Bob Berg. This Juilliard trained musician has his own self-titled album and tours with Branford Marsalis.

Drew Carter joined the Carolina Panthers in 2004 as wide receiver. Graduating from Ohio State University, he excelled for the Buckeyes as a long jumper. He finished second at the Big 10 Championship and was named All-America in 2003 for his long jump. When not playing football, he resides in his hometown of Solon, Ohio.

Rick Cerone spent 18 seasons in Major League Baseball playing for the Indians, Blue Jays, Braves, Brewers, Expos, Mets, Red Sox and Yankees. He was an American League All-Star, Most Valuable Player and in college an Academic All-American. It is no surprise, then, that after retiring from the game he went on to co-found the Teach Our Children Foundation, Newark Bears and Stellar Realty Group. Rick is also a partner in Stellar Creative, a well-established television and film production company in New York City.

Bobby Cremins is the most successful basketball coach in Georgia Tech history and one of the winningest in Atlantic Coast Conference annals. He guided Tech to 14 winning seasons and 14 postseason berths in his 19 years including three ACC tournament titles, two ACC regular-season titles and one Final Four in 1990. He earned three ACC Coach-of-the-Year awards in 1983, 1985 and 1996 while twice being named national Coach-of-the-Year in 1985 and 1990.

Thad Daber is a four-time “World One Club Champion” and holder of the Guinness World Record for the lowest score in a round of golf played using only one club. Using a six-iron, he shot a sensational two-under-par 70. His professional golf career has afforded him three professional tournament victories and has taken him to the PGA tours in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States.

John Daly is internationally known as the host of “Real TV.” John is also an author and journalist. His latest book Informed Not Enraged is due out in August. John enjoys participating in charity events, including golf tournaments, telethons and fundraising dinners.

John Dancy, former NBC News White House correspondent, has played golf since he was a teenager … in between covering presidents, senators, hurricanes, four wars and other assorted disagreements. In 30 years as a reporter, he has lived in Washington, London, Berlin and Moscow, traveled several million miles and seen the inside of more hotel rooms than a room-service waiter. He now lives a less hectic life as Visiting Lecturer in Public Policy at Duke University.

Jim Davidson is best known for his role as a cop on “Pacific Blue.” A graduate of Lehigh University, Jim began his acting career in a memorable “Head and Shoulders” commercial and went on to star in the hit television series “Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman” and in ESPN’s “Max Out.” Jim currently spends his time touring the country singing in churches, schools and hospitals. He has recorded his first CD entitled “As Long As I Have You.”

Kenny Dennard played basketball for Duke from 1977 to 1981. One of the all-time fan favorites to play for Duke, Kenny claims the 1978 team as the highlight of his sports career. He went on to play in the NBA, married his high school sweetheart and battled cancer. Now he is the managing partner of Dennard Rupp Gray & Easterly, LLC, a Houston-based consulting firm.

Dustin Diamond is best known as Samuel “Screech” Powers on the long-running teen show “Saved by the Bell.” Dustin has little time to rest these days. He now tours the country as a stand-up comic, selling out colleges and clubs throughout North America. Dustin’s comedic styling has earned him the honor of being compared to a young George Carlin. Dustin has made numerous television appearances throughout his career. His most recent appearances include shows on VH-1, E! Entertainment, The Cartoon Network and TV Land’s Top Ten. He and his wife started the Dustin Diamond Foundation in 2005.

Frank Dicpoulos first appeared on “Guiding Light” in 1987. Since then he has spent nearly 20 years playing Frank Achilles Cooper, Jr. on the popular daytime soap opera. Before joining “Guiding Light,” Frank acted in numerous television shows including “The Tracey Ullman Show,” “Silver Spoons” and “Dynasty.” He has two children of his own and loves participating in charity events to help kids.

Dillon Dixon is a singer/songwriter whose songs have been recorded by artists such as George Jones, Mindy McCready, Restless Heart, Neal McCoy and Steve Holy. His music has also been in several movies including “Scream” and “Terminator 3.” He has just finished a solo project entitled “Road Trippin’.”

Robert Donner is best known for his starring role as Exidor on “Mork and Mindy,” but his credits in the world of television and film show why he is one of our most accomplished actors. From “Cool Hand Luke” to “High Plains Drifter” to “Matlock” to “Ally McBeal” and “Early Edition,” his work continues to amaze and delight his fans.

Jon Evans anchors the 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. news for WWAY-TV3 in Wilmington, N.C. He also has co-hosted 10 Duke Children’s Miracle Network broadcast celebrations and hosted the Cape Fear Teddy Bear Ball benefiting Duke Children’s. As the father of a former Duke Children’s patient, Jon truly understands the importance of Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center.

Michael Finney is a comedian and magician in one package. He has received numerous awards for his comedy magic and has appeared on television shows such as “Comic Strip Live” and “Entertainment Tonight.” Michael was awarded the 2005 Comedy Magician of the Year and 2006 Parlor Magician of the Year from the Acadmey of Magical Arts. He has also started his own foundation helping children in the Phoenix area who need heart surgeries.

Doug Flynn began his Major League Baseball career in 1975 and played 11 seasons with five different teams: the Cincinnati Reds, the New York Mets, the Montreal Expos, the Texas Rangers and the Detroit Tigers. He is the recipient of the distinguished Gold Glove award.

Lee Fowler boasts 28 years of experience in collegiate athletics as a player and a coach. Lee is currently the athletics director for North Carolina State University in Raleigh, N.C.

Jeff Foxworthy, the honorary chairman of the Duke Children's Classic, is a highly successful comedian and writer who has released several platinum-selling albums. He is noted for his famous catch phrase, "You might be a redneck if." Jeff is a wonderful husband to his wife Gregg and proud father of two daughters.
Jeff and Gregg are celebrating their 10th year as celebrity hosts of the Classic.

Joe Gallison is best known for his 17-year portrayal of Dr. Neil Curtis on “Days of Our Lives,” which has earned him an Emmy nomination. In addition to this role he has performed in movies, off-Broadway plays and over 30 episodic TV shows, from “Silk Stalkings” to “One Tree Hill.” Joe has also appeared locally in productions of “Hamlet,” “A Christmas Carol” and “Plaza Suite” for which he earned the Thalian Association’s Best Actor award.

Burton “Bubba” Gilliam may be best known for his role as Lyle in “Blazing Saddles,” but he considers his greatest accomplishment winning more Golden Glove Boxing championships than anyone in the history of the sport. Burton has appeared in numerous television shows and feature films including everything from “Dukes of Hazzard” to “Back to the Future III.” An avid golfer, Burton is on a celebrity golf tour and has served as host for the Burton Gilliam Celebrity Golf Classic in Pismo Beach, California for 13 years.

Mike Gminski, former Duke All-American, went on to play 14 years in the NBA for Charlotte, Milwaukee, New Jersey and Philadelphia. While at Duke, Mike was a two-time Academic All-American and the 1979 ACC Player of the Year. He led Duke to the national championship game against Kentucky in 1978 and became the second Blue Devil to have his number retired. He is currently the color analyst for Fox Sports Net and Jefferson Pilot Sports and served as chairman of the National Board of Advisors for Duke Children’s Hospital from 2000-2003.

Fred Griffith is not just an actor and producer; he’s a Carolinian. The South Carolina native is currently working on a film project about NASCAR legend Junior Johnson with his production company, Follow Your Dreams Productions, Inc.,. His acting credits include the films “Gods and Generals” and “Miracle at Sage Creek,” and the television shows “24” and “Judging Amy.”

Jim Hampton has a long list of television, film and directing credits to his name. Best known for his role as dad to a “Teen Wolf,” he has appeared in over 50 television shows, 19 movies and 16 movies-of-the-week. Jim currently lives in Texas with his wife and plays as much golf as he can.

Dick Hardwick is a successful comedian. In 2005 he was the emcee/comedian at the NASCAR Golden Corral 500 at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. He performs regularly with the legendary Johnny Mathis in venues across the country. Dick has toured with Reba McEntire and is very popular in the corporate convention arena where his clean show and warm personality are a big hit.

Bob Harris, “The Voice of the Blue Devils,” is one of the most recognizable voices in the country. In his 30 years at Duke, Bob has broadcast over 1,000 Duke basketball games. He has been courtside to broadcast 11 Final Fours and eight NCAA Basketball Championship games including all three of Duke’s national titles. A fan favorite, Bob is currently writing his autobiography How Sweet it is!! From the Cotton Mill to the Crowsnest.

Ken Howard starred as world-wise retired detective Max Cavanaugh on NBC’s “Crossing Jordan.” On his shelf sit a Tony for his work in the Broadway Show “Child’s Play” and an Emmy for his camera narration of “Facts for Boys: The Body Human.” Ken works closely with the National Kidney Foundation in its efforts to encourage people organ donation.

Leann Hunley is an actress with pages of credits to her name. She has starred in “Heaven Help Us,” “Dynasty,” “Days of Our Lives” and “Dawson’s Creek.” The former beauty queen won a Daytime Emmy for outstanding supporting actress for her role of Anna Brady Dimera on “Days of Our Lives.”

Gregory Itzin stars as President Charles Logan on FOX’s “24.” He has spent a lifetime playing politicians and royalty and has acted opposite Johnny Depp, Angelina Jolie and Meryl Streep in films. Also renowned for his theatre work, Gregory has received Tony and Drama Desk nominations for his work in the Pulitzer Prize winning play, “The Kentucky Cycle.”

Peter Jason has appeared in over 70 feature films, countless Broadway productions and many commercials. He is credited with giving Eddie Murphy the career he now enjoys, since Peter played the cowboy bartender in “48 Hours.” He has also appeared in “Rio Lobo” with John Wayne, “Streets of Fire” with Matthew Laurance and every John Carpenter film ever made.

Bill Jordan, a revered media personality in the Triangle, has been the host of the WRAL-FM (MIX 101.5) morning show for 14 years. He is the driving force behind the MIX 101.5 Radiothon for Duke Children’s. During the past 12 years Bill has helped raise nearly $7 million for Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center by encouraging MIX listeners to call and pledge. Bill is a hero to the patients at Duke Children’s.

Steve Kelley is a public official’s worst nightmare. The Virginia native and Dartmouth College grad spends most of his time poking fun at elected officials. His political cartoons are syndicated nationwide and frequently appear in Time, Newsweek, The New York Times, The Chicago Tribune and USA Today. Steve also writes and performs comedy and has appeared on “The Tonight Show” seven times.

Matthew Laurance is best known for his nine years as Mel Silver on “Beverly Hills 90210.” He was the star of Fox’s “Duet,” and his film credits include “Eddie and the Cruisers,” “St. Elmo’s Fire,” “ Sibling Rivalry” and “Beyond Redemption.” After living in Los Angeles for 20 years, Matthew moved to Durham and recently concluded his 7th year as a sideline analyst on the Duke Radio Network. He is also the Director of Donor Relations for the Emily Krzyzewski Family Life Center in Durham.

Nancy Lieberman athletic ability was nationally recognized as early as 1974. At the age of 15, she earned a spot on the first US Women’s Olympic Basketball Team. By 1981 she was leading the WBL’s Dallas Diamonds to their first and only championship series. In 1986 she resumed her professional basketball career when she became the first woman to play in a men’s professional league. Now a basketball analyst for ESPN, Nancy covers men’s and women’s college basketball on ESPN and ESPN2.

Ann Liguori is one of the original sports talk show hosts on WFAN-NY, the first radio station to go to an all sports format. She continues to host her own sports call-in show on Sunday evenings and covers Major golf and tennis tournaments for the station. Ann covered her sixth Olympics in Torino, Italy as a network radio correspondent for Westwood One Radio Network. As President of Ann Liguori Productions, Inc., Ann owns the long-running “Sports Innerview with Ann Liguori,” a celebrity interview show that is syndicated on cable.

Branford Marsalis is known for his innovative spirit and broad musical scope. The Grammy Award-winning saxophonist is at home on the stages of the world’s greatest jazz clubs and classical halls. He has several acclaimed albums to his name both as a musician and producer and has launched his own label, Marsalis Music.

Jack Mayberry is best known for his remarkable impression of Ross Perot on “The Tonight Show.” In addition to his 28 appearances on “The Tonight Show,” he has performed in several commercials including Buick and Chevrolet. The comedian now spends most of his time doing what he likes best, stand-up comedy.

Don McCauley was an All-America tailback at UNC with a long career with the Baltimore Colts.
Marc McClure boasts many film credits and is well known for his role as Jimmy Olsen in the “Superman” movies. He has starred in hit films such as “Back to the Future” and “Apollo 13.” He has also graced the small screen, guest starring on shows such as “Happy Days,” “The Shield” and “Cold Case.” His latest project, the film “Driftwood,” opens this summer.
Earl Morrall claims his most memorable year as a NFL quarterback was 1972—the “Perfect Season.” After stepping in for Bob Griese, he directed the Miami Dolphins to 12 consecutive victories and the only undefeated season in NFL history. Earl has a long list of awards to his name including five club MVP’s and Comeback Player of the Year.

Jeff Mullins is a two-time All-American and a three-time All-ACC selection. He helped lead Duke to the Final Four his junior and senior years and was ACC Player of the Year in 1964. Jeff won a gold medal with the 1964 U.S. Olympic team and went on to a 13-year NBA career. Jeff was a five-time NBA All-Star, winning an NBA championship with Golden State in 1975. His Duke #44 jersey was retired in 1974.

Jim O’Brien is a well-known comedian who has headlined in Las Vegas, Reno and comedy clubs nationwide. He currently has a recurring role on “The George Lopez Show” and has appeared on over 100 television shows including “Bernie Mac” and “Everybody Loves Raymond.” He began performing professionally at age 17 and considers himself very fortunate to get paid to do what he loves.

Carla Overbeck is the assistant coach for the Duke Women’s Soccer team, but she got her start playing soccer 12 miles down the road in Chapel Hill. A three-time All-America selection at the University of North Carolina, Carla was a member of four unbeaten Tar Heel national title squads from 1986-89. North Carolina posted a phenomenal 95-match unbeaten streak (89-0-6) during her career. She was an instrumental player for the U.S. in winning the 1991 Women’s World Cup in China. She captained the 1995 U.S. World Cup squad that advanced to the semifinals and also served as captain of the 1996 U.S. Olympic squad that won the gold medal.
Tom Parks has been making people laugh for over 25 years. He started in 1976 on the college circuit and, in 1979, was named "College Entertainer of the Year" and "College Comedian of the Year" by the National Association of Campus Activities. He starred on HBO’s “Not Necessarily the News" and made his primetime debut on “Sisters.” Tom has many acting credits including the television shows “Wings” and “News Radio.” Diagnosed with insulin-dependent diabetes in 1985, Tom became involved with the American Diabetes Association. He founded the "Comedy Crusade Against Diabetes" which raised over $500,000 for the ADA.

Morgan Patrick is a radio personality with Sports Radio 850 the Buzz out of Raleigh. When not playing radio, Morgan enjoys activities with family, golf, swimming, skiing and attending numerous sporting events usually for the radio station. An avid music fan, his tastes range from rock to country. Morgan is married and has two children.

Pat Patterson has been with the Duke Children’s Classic since its inception in 1972 both as a player and show emcee. He has entertained radio audiences in the Triangle area since 1969. After a 15-year absence, Pat is now back on the air on WNDZ 570 AM in Raleigh.

Jim Perry spent 17 years in Major League Baseball playing for the Indians, Twins, Tigers and Athletics. The pitcher’s career highlight was winning the Cy Young Award in 1970. Jim also played in four All Star games throughout his career.

Ted Roof is the head coach of the Duke Blue Devils football team. Ted, a former All-ACC linebacker at Georgia Tech, came to the aid of the Blue Devils as interim head coach for the last five games of the 2003 season. Under his guidance, Duke posted a 41-17 victory over Georgia Tech and then closed the season by defeating archrival University of North Carolina. Before coming to Duke, Ted was the defensive coordinator for Georgia Tech.

Don Shea is a popular radio and television host on the N.C. State football and basketball shows. In addition he is a member of the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame Board. Don is not only a sports enthusiast but also has a giant place in his heart for kids. He is a member of the Duke Children's Classic Board, the Make-A-Wish Foundation Advisory Board and has been co-chairman of the Jim Valvano Kids Klassic since it began over 20 years ago.

Michael Storm began his career as a folk singer/guitar player of “The Goodtime Singers.” In 1969 Michael took on the role of Dr. Larry Wolek on ABC’s “One Life to Live.” Thirty-five years later he is still saving lives on the same show. Michael has appeared in a number of other shows including “JAG,” “Diagnosis Murder” and most recently, “The Practice.”

Dan Tyminski is best known as the singing voice of George Clooney in the motion picture “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” The bluegrass Renaissance man is a mandolin player, guitarist, recording engineer, producer and vocalist. He has spent time in two of music’s most prominent ensembles – first the Lonesome River Band and now Alison Krauss and Union Station. Dan has won Grammy Awards, Country Music Awards and three Male Vocalist of the Year awards from the IMBA. When not on the road or in the recording studio, he can be found on the golf course.

Steve Vacendak, Duke Sports Hall of Fame member, began his basketball career at Duke University in 1962. In 1966 he was named ACC Player of the Year and MVP of the ACC tournament. Steve returned to Duke in 1980 to serve five years as associate athletic director. From 1996 to 2003, Steve served as partner and vice president of Home Owners Clubs of America. Currently he is the operating partner of Damon’s Grill Restaurant in Raleigh, N.C.

LeRoy Walker has served sports as both a coach and administrator. He has coached a number of athletes including the 1976 U.S. Olympic men’s track and field team. From 1973 to 1976 he served as the chairman of the AAU’s men’s track and field committee. He later served as chancellor of North Carolina Central University, president of the Athletics Congress and president of the U.S. Olympic Committee.

Joe Washington is one of college football’s greatest players. He was a three-time “All Big Eight” selection at Oklahoma, a two-time All-American, and twice was the Heisman Trophy runner-up. After a terrific nine-year NFL career with the Redskins, Chargers and Falcons, he is now the CEO of a racecar team, which he co-owns with basketball legend Julius Erving.

Bucky Waters, co-founder of the Duke Children’s Classic, does color commentary for ESPN and Madison Square Garden Networks, serves on the Board of Directors for the V Foundation, stars in television and radio commercials and is a motivational speaker. Bucky is one of only four individuals in ACC history to be on ACC Championship teams at two different universities: as a player at North Carolina State University and as a coach at Duke University. In March 2005 Bucky received the Lou Gehrig/Catfish Hunter Humanitarian Award.

Lou Waters was a founding member of CNN’s original news team and the network’s longest-serving anchor. Lou received several awards for outstanding reporting including the Cable ACE Award, an Emmy and three Golden Microphone awards. He is now engaged in independent television production and program development.

Blaine Wilson has represented the United States in gymnastic competitions around the world. The 2004 Olympic silver medalist began gymnastics in 1979. Since then he has been the National Champion from 1996 to 2000, a World Championship Team member, the 1998 Goodwill Games bronze medalist and has won a number of other awards. Blaine has been featured in “People Magazine,” “Sports Illustrated,” “Rolling Stone” and “Men’s Fitness.”

Garo Yepremian is best known as the place-kicker for the 1972 Miami Dolphin’s undefeated season. He played in the NFL for 15 years and was voted Kicker of the Decade for 1970-1980 by the NFL Hall of Fame Committee. He has written three books and started the Garo Yepremian Foundation for brain tumor and catastrophic illness research. He also works with Fonar Stand-Up MRI as its national sports consultant.

Kim Zimmer is probably best known for her role as Reva Shayne Lewis on the television soap opera “Guiding Light.” Kim took a break from “Guiding Light” from 1990-1995, during which time she starred in “Santa Barbara” and “The Doctors.” She has won four Daytime Emmy awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her work on “Guiding Light.”