People News

Bob Labbance's passing honored

Bob Labbance, an author and editor well-known in the golf course management industry, passed away from ALS on Aug. 24, and his passing has been noted by the USGA Museum, where he was a member of the museum committee.

Kevin Mendik wrote an essay about his friend and collaborator for the museum.

Also, a team called Friends of Bob Labbance, is planning to participate in the 2008 Walk to Defeat ALS in Burlington, Vt., Sept. 28. Kathie Hickman, Labbance's wife said the team's goal is to raise $10,000 in donations.

She is planning a memorial service for Labbance, with a target date of Saturday, Oct.11, additional details will be available later.

The First Tee of Pursell Farms celebrates Shay Graham

FarmLinks and The First Tee of Pursell Farms has recognized one of its own, Shaneadra (Shay) Graham, who was chosen as one of 10 semifinalists for The Royal Bank of Scotland Group's 2008 RBS Achievers of The Year Awards.  

To celebrate, The First Tee of Pursell Farms and the Sylacauga Alliance for Family Enhancement organized a pep rally at Graham's high school, B.B. Comer, on Thursday, Aug. 28.  Hundreds of students, teachers, family members and friends cheered as Graham received a special plaque and medal.  Also on hand at the ceremony were Stephanie Bell from the Alabama State Board of Education; Suzanne Lacey, Ph.D., superintendent of education for Talladega County; Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Pursell; and Casey Smith, executive director of The First Tee of Pursell Farms.

The RBS Achievers of The Year Awards recognize participants who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in school and in their daily lives as well as in their involvement with the First Tee program.

ScottsMiracle-Gro names Mark R. Baker president and COO

Mark R. Baker has been named president and chief operating officer of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Co. effective Oct. 1.

Baker, who will oversee all business units and operating functions at the company, has been a member of the board of directors since 2004. Most recently, he was president and chief executive officer of Gander Mountain, a leading outdoor retailer. Before that, he was an executive with The Home Depot from 1996 to 2001.

He will remain on the company's 12-member board of directors, but will step down from his roles on the governance and nominating committee as well as the compensation and organization committee.

Reporting to Baker will be Barry Sanders, executive vice president North America; Claude Lopez, executive vice president international and chief marketing officer; and Mike Lukemire, executive vice president of global technologies and operations.