Tiger Woods seamed pleased with his performance at the Barclays after recovering from his second and third round derailment from an unsteady putting stroke.  When asked Tigers said Yeah, I was very pleased, he admitted he had found something in his stroke, which was good. Hitting a lot of good putts.  After his second round of 73 he bogied the 2nd, 6th, 7th 9th holes and third round 72 bogied 1st and the 9th holes when his putter was cold just about putting him out him out of contention.

DeAndre Rudolph know to his golf buddies as (Rudi) at the historical Weekquaic golf course is one of the oldest public courses located in Newark, New Jersey. He was taken in a few more holes with his family watching Tiger Woods before he headed out make his own Sunday afternoon tee time. Mr. Rudolph spent most of the morning with his wife and daughter who is also an avid golfer.  When asked if he saw a change in Tigers swing he stated, “ yes his swing looks good and look ready for the win everyone is waiting for after 12 starts without a win.  When Tiger was asked if he was looking forward to the next three events ahead hew stated, “ he won on the next three events, and was very familiar with the venues. He felt great after Sundays final round of 67 that will move him inside the top 60 in the FedEx Cup points standing.

L. to R. spectators Khahil Maniqaulte and Brendan Walsh joined up with Tiger Woods on the 10th hole at the final round of the tournament. Tiger bogied the 10th hole playing at 179yds. He hit his tee shot in the primary cut of rough right side over of the first bunker holing out with a 4 on the 10-hole par #3. It was Tiger’s only bogie for a round of 67. His final scoring was 65-73-72-67 final 277.

As I could see putting was the deal breaker for Tiger, he was very close to grabbing the win “Woods said “If I would have put it together on the greens for all four days I would have been right there.”

New York, N.Y. – What happens when men and women return home from warfare wounded or an amputee? How many have difficulties leading productive and active lives?  How do they transition back to normalcy, for their families, friends and the game of golf.

Sgt. Jeff Combs a wounded veteran of the United States Marine Corps is determined to make a difference through his dedication to the Wounded Warriors Project. 

 The Barclays invited Sgt. Combs, professional golfer Phil Mickelson, Barclays’ President, Robert E. Diamond Jr., Sports Moderator, David Flaherty along with special guests to kick-off their prestigious golf event held August 24-29 at the historic Ridgewood Country Club in Paramus, N.J.

                            “Once you sign up to enlist you agree to accept what comes your way”

                                                                                 –Jeff Combs–

There was no such thing as stormy weather when it came time to tee up for the cause; the threatening rain failed to intimidate the guest and attendees as they gathered aboard the Essex class aircraft carrier, the USS Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum at Pier 86 in New York City. 

 As part of the PGA Tour’s effort to support “Birdies for the Brave” Phil Mickelson spoke about his and wife Amy’s support for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation through the “Birdies for the Brave” concept, supporting troops injured during combat. The Special Operations Warrior Foundation provides college education for surviving children of fallen special operations personnel, as well as financial support for the families of those wounded.

 This is the PGA’s second event at the Ridgewood Country Club, host of the 2008 and now the 2010 Barclays FedEx Cup; Barclays generously guaranteed a contribution of up to $50,000 for every golf ball landing in the circular flotation target.

Sgt. Jeff Combs tees up with his driver, to hit a golf ball off the flight deck of the vessel into a red circular target held in place by a tugboat on the Hudson River. Meanwhile, Phil Mickelson, David Flaherty and guests in the background offer Jeff an array of laconic golf tips.

American troops who protect our borders need to know that we do care about them. Barclays message is clear, these men and women are not only fighting and putting their very lives in danger; foundations such as these show them the appreciation and respect that they are entitled.

 “The soldier above all others pray for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.”

                                                                          –Douglas MacArthur–

From early on, the game of golf has been primarily a privileged sport. For many women of color with the desire to play the game of golf professionally, basically, due to societal impediments, their dreams are driven out of bounds.

 Ginger Howard is a young talented breath of fresh air overcoming obstacles with family support and a succession of exceptional golf performances. Now, at the age of 16 she has become the first African-American Junior Amateur female to play in the 2010 Ryder Cup in Scotland.

 With the use of Internet technology I was able to link up with Ginger and ask her a few questions about the imminent events. 

 Q: How and when did you find out you were invited to play in the Ryder Cup?

A: My friends told me before I went into the playoff with Casey Isagawa. Also some newspaper reporters asked me about my thoughts on how I automatically made it into the Jr. Ryder Cup. That made me really excited and proud of my play that day, also because initially I thought only 1st place would earn the spot.

 Q: Have you begun training and meeting with the team? What strengths will you bring?

A: -No we haven't begun training for Scotland, but I plan to shortly. I know most of the team actually. Some are friends from over the years, and I just finished competing with a few coming from Canon Cup into Jr. PGA. I will be bringing my mental focus along with short game execution.

 Q: Will this be your first championship abroad?

A: Yes, this is my first time out of the country and I can't explain how overjoyed I am.

 Q: I forward all my articles to President and Michelle Obama, what would you want the President to know about you and the Ryder Cup?

A: I would like for them to know what everyone else knows; I am very pleased that all my hard practice and determination is paying off. I am excited and proud to represent the United States of America. It would be so cool to visit the White House Mr. President to meet with you and Michelle!

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. - Ginger Howard of Bradenton, Fla., the runner-up in the girls' divisions, earns an automatic spot in the Ryder Cup September 27-28 at Gleneagles in Scotland. Participants in the 2010 Junior Ryder Cup will play a "friendship" match the day prior (Thursday) to the start of the Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor in Wales. The six matches will feature a mixed four-ball with the U.S.A. competing against Europe, which will build international friendships.

It is our responsibility to get as much news as possible of Ginger’s success into our communities so others can enjoy, share and watch her making history. We need to assure her achievements will never be exploited or excluded from chronicles of the history of golf like others who endured daily racism.

"Robert Howard, Ginger’s dad told me he would like for me to mention that Ginger has made history by becoming the first African-American girl to ever participate on the US Junior Ryder Cup Team. It's extremely important for everyone to understand the impact of this achievement."

Someone with a deep well of character should seriously take a look at how they could support what’s occurring here. Ginger is playing the game, as you would want to see it played. Escaping from deep bunkers is a very expensive task, especially for an amateur golfer.

For many, she has already assumed the role as the youngest documented pioneer in the history of Black Women in Golf, paving the way for her generation.

ALAG welcomes the Camren Taveras-Cournoyer family to the Brooklyn Golf Learning Center located at 2300 Flatbush Ave. Brooklyn, New York on Saturday, July 30, 2010. The Taveras-Cournoyer family was referred to us by The Brooklyn Blue Feather School, which is a private elementary school located in Brooklyn, New York. The school provides services and training to students with moderate to severe mental and/or physical disabilities.

On Camren's first day, he learns the importance of counting his clubs and how a putter is returned to the golf bag. It’s important to make a point that we provide our young golfers with loaner equipment accurately measured and based on height and ability           

We start early by teaching our juniors that the golf swing is not a hitting action, but a swinging motion. We work on the basic fundamentals in the golf swing with all our students. Mainly, we address those things in golf that many people overlook or cannot see. Focusing strongly on fundamentals is our primary approach to golf basics and a great number of our beginners respond well as do golfers at all skill levels.

Feel is important, but without mechanical and visual connections it can be very misleading.  Vincent is learning how to use video to review his swing from setup to take away.  Repeat visual analysis of his golf swing is essential for understanding the blending together of body motion with swing shape concepts.   

Paying attention to the five fundamentals is a sure way to help build a repeatable setup and prevent misdirected golf shots resulting from misalignment, bad balance and tension.

The exercise performed above is designed to assist the students in understanding how important a pre-swing alignment routine is beneficial to establishing measurable standards. Here, Mel points to a teed up golf ball and the two shafts set parallel on ground in a workstation.  The two orange shafts provide a visual reference point including, but not limited to an alignment base for the feet, knees, hips, shoulder, and most of all, eyes.

Cassandra focused on rhythm, tempo, and timing drills by counting golf tees and teeing up golf balls.  Shortly afterward, Makiya was able to tee up each golf ball in her practice station as she attempted to strike them without undue delay in a well-timed manner. Using auditory feedback Cassandra had Makiya count and tap the tops of tees and roll golf balls in her palm to improve coordination between intentional and voluntary movements. “Rhythm” is the flow or look of your golf swing, “Tempo” is the pace at which you swing a club and “Timing” is the sequence, or order of the swing motions, all of which lead to good balance.

Getting good advice when working on your golf swing is essential at any age. Notice how 6-year-old Vincent is applying a firm grip to the club in the motion of his backswing. From this position, I could follow Vincent’s eye movement and try to locate his fixation and central point of activation. This is a good time to also point out the position of his clubface. You can see that it is stable and in-line with his neutral grip; if you familiarize yourself with these images, you can begin building a swinging sensation with the mind monitoring in harmony.

He is also learning how both arms and hands support the golf swing as he experiences the weight of the club head. If you don’t feel the weight of the club head at some point during the first 18 inches (or the 8 o’clock level of the takeaway), you will find it difficult to release stored energy or stop the hands from being controlling and causing disruptions in the full swinging motion.

When our non-verbal students display difficulty in processing information, we allow them additional time to think, process, and reset without adding any additional information until they respond in some fashion.

We find in many normal golfers, most of the time, a weak connection with the grip and the relationship between the handle and the club head. In practice sessions we find the takeaway position is a good reference point to help you point out if you are in a solid position able to check the critical points of the hands, club head, and body.  If you understand the significant value of sound fundamentals then good things will happen and you will begin to notice when your swing is balanced and springy. It’s amazing when we see our students work on difficult areas of the golf swing without sacrificing the fun in learning how to play golf.

For many of our juniors and parents when we meet each Saturday, it brings them closer to a place where they can share in a positive social experience interestingly through golf.   

                  Here's Cassandra's "In her own words" about what she has                                             been working on with Makiya

           l. to r. Makiya Maynard student and ALGA Volunteer Cassandra Collins

Everyone is good at something. My something is not so much golf; but helping children with disabilities including Autism is. Autism is a developmental disorder that appears in the first 3 years of life, and affects the brain's normal development of social and communication skills. I have worked with the handicapped of all ages and all disabilities. Back in Florida, my horses are pet therapy certified and we would take them to nursing homes, hospitals, special education schools, and random visits around the surrounding counties. I mostly work with physical therapy and learning disabilities, but I still have a lot of experience with speech therapy (especially that I am fluent in sign language). 

Most children with autism though typically have difficulties in social interaction and verbal and nonverbal communication. Mikaya has a few communication barriers but we are working through it. 

When we started to count (three golf balls), Mikaya would count with me and continue to count up until about six or seven due to repetition rather than actually visualizing and communicating that there were three golf balls. Now though, she is learning the actual number being represented (i.e., TWO coins, THREE golf balls, SIX tees, etc). Mikaya is a bright girl whose phenomenal memory skills are now helping her communication rather than hindering it. Once she learned how to tee up a golf ball and the proper way to hold the golf club she has yet to forget. This is a big deal because autistic children do not initially want to play interactive games due to over sensitivity to sight, hearing, touching, smelling, or tasting. They also prefer to spend time alone rather than with others, have short attention spans, and usually have a tendency to stress when routines have been changed. 

For Mikaya, the breakthroughs we have made using patience and implementing family has created a fun-filled family experience. 

Lisa Maynard, Makiya's mother looks on attentively as Cassandra performs proprioceptor putting drill techniques 

There is going to be nothing better when I get a phone call a few weeks from now when Mikaya and her family go out and play their first round of golf collectively. 

Family is all we really have to hold on to in this world; it’s a wonderful feeling to be a part of the glue of love that continues to hold it all together. CC

What I find on the golf practice range is that too much attention is placed on trying to hit balls over developing solid swing fundamentals. Not enough attention is given to the importance of how well students develop sound learning skills which helps them understand how their body and golf swing works. Learning fundamentals is similar to understanding what we have read before we speak about it, in order to know what it is we are talking about.  There are sets of basic skills every golfer should understand and acquire that will allow him or her to “play the game” well.

   l. To r. Cassandra is working with Makiya, by helping her to establish a visual feel for her grip when setting up for a short chip shot.

To help improve eye-hand coordination, she holds Makiya’s grip at shoulder level and then tilts her spine from the hips as she sets up to the ball. Establishing a mutual gaze is one way of building a bridge where both can share in the learning experience.  Makiya struggles with challenges of (PDD-NOS) which is a condition in which some but not all features of autism are explicitly identified.                                    

                           We affectionately call this drill “Jump the Frog”  

                       Notice the two color balls set-up between parallel shafts placed on the ground in front of her feet. 

In golf, one of the many key points is body type recognition and the ability to comprehend a specific sequence of golf swing motions that fit and model of your body type and ability.

When youngsters have difficulty understanding what they are doing they normally become frustrated, and when they are frustrated, they stop practicing. The world over share a common trait "meltdown" otherwise known as a tantrum.

                                     Avid golfers Vincent Scutaro and his son Vincent

 Many children with disabilities are guilty of the behavior of having tantrum or become a “runner” in which case, it is best to have a teaching venue that is completely fenced in and where they will feel safe.

When children get together to play, oddly enough they establish rules. As early as I can remember, when I was a child we would play “Skelly and Crack Top," a game we played on the New York City Street black top. We established skill recognition, rules of order, position of play with risks and rewards. We made the rules and every kid followed them.

In our Junior / Parent Mentor program we help parents and special needs students fix these issues with a very simple process. Learning the rules of golf is an adaptation I formulated by reading “Your Perfect Swing”; by Jim Suttie PhD. “Dr. Suttie believes every golfer has an ideal swing based on natural tendencies and physical strengths.” His book helps show you how to identify your tendencies and master a swing that's consistent and repeatable.

             The balls can be any two colors you may choose. Here we chose a red  ball as the target ball and a blue ball as the frog.

                                    The object is to strike the red causing it to jump over the blue ball

 Dr. Suttie’s book is required reading for all of my students. We annually receive autographed copies in support of Advanced Lesson Academy of Golf efforts.

Practicing drills and working on fundamentals is a big part of the learning process. For most young golfers they are subject to learning and memorizing the wrong information.

 If you use positional teaching when working with students, it won’t allow you to have a tangible representation of progress. If you teach the golf swing with visual references, parallel lines and angles, etc., you will be astonished as you watch the students’ skills grow! 

Proper fundamentals can, however, enable us to see and feel positions through motion and accept it as an adaptable profile . The brain can then with its cognitive powers store these "images" for future perfect practice sessions. One of our key approaches is to participate with the student in sharing the movements in some meaningful way so they will want to do it back with us. 

This is the same way many PGA Professional Golfers practice; it works for golfers of all ages, and it will work for many individuals with special needs.    

                                l. to r. Coach Mel Rodriguez works on grip with Lisa Maynard as daughter Makiya looks on

 ALAG’s mission is to help parents share in the learning process of golf with their children through proper fundamentals.  You may be amazed at how good it makes everyone feel.

Advanced Lesson Academy Of Golf is located at:

Brooklyn Golf Center Brooklyn, New York

3200 Flatbush Ave. New York 11234

718-253-6816

 If you wish to discuss any aspect of this article don’t hesitate to leave a comment or call us at 201-892-3278 or e-mail us at advancedlesson@earthlink.net.

After a great week of eye-popping golf shots at the Travelers Championship in Cromwell Ct, I positioned myself on what was to be a beautiful Sunday afternoon along the fairways of the last four finishing hole of the TPC River Highlands to get a glimpse from an angle where many fans become bona -fide attesters.

                                                                               Travelers Championship 

 Lightfoot: Hello Vijay, Nice to see you again, I missed speaking with you during 2010 Northern Trust Open at the Rivera Country Club Pacific Palisades, CA. I was hoping if I could ask you two quick questions about your play this week:

 Singh: Yes, I didn’t really play well today.

 Lightfoot:  Vijay, on the18^th hole par 4, you hit a monster drive that landed dead center of the fairway leaving you a wedge second shot to the green for an attempt to make your sixth birdie for the round.

Q: Can you tell me what your thoughts were at the moment you discovered your ball situated slightly down hill in a low level undulation?

 Singh: “It was sitting well and I hit a firm sand wedge, it took a bounce and came back a little more than I wanted.

                                                                           Q / A with Vijay Singh

Playing a shot wedge from a tight lie on level ground is a demanding enough shot; having to hit from an uphill or downhill lie may require specific techniques and ability. One of the more difficult shots in golf is hitting from a downhill lie. This places your back foot higher than the ball giving you an uneven stance.

                                           Vijay Singh, Hole 18^th short wedge to the green

Lightfoot: You are well known for your various practice drills you use to keep your swing consistent.

Q: What practice drills did you use this week and what was the mental thought?

Singh: “Just trying to swing my club left of the target line”.

                          PGA Golfer Cliff Kresge describes how he played a crafty 

                                            greenside shot back of 15^th green.

Lightfoot: The 15^th short Par 4 played at 296 yards from tee to the green, you chose to hit a driver. Coming close to acing the hole your ball rolled past the pin coming to rest in the first cut of rough behind the green. 

Most shots around the green require finesse in addition to creativity and touch.

 Q: You decided to execute a bump and release shot over using a high lofted lob, why?

 Kresga:   “Reading the green was very important when making this decision. The lie was too much on a down hill slope and it would have been difficult to flop and stop on the green. If I missed my spot it would have slid off the green. I wanted to keep the ball between me and the pin, so, hitting it into the slope and popping it up onto the green was my best choice”.

                                                                            15^thhole Par 4-296 yards

                                                              Club House tips from the Pro

 Q: Were you happy with your play today?

 Merritt: I played good; it was decent I finished 6-under

 Q: What drills did you use between rounds on the practice range to keep your swing thoughts together.

 Merritt: I was working on alignment because I was aiming far left of the target line so I used two shafts on the ground like railroad tracks to help reference my alignment.

 Q: How do you set-up for this drill?

 Merritt: I start with my feet knees hips and the upper body and when you are square at set-up there is no guesswork

Q: Why do you prefer this drill?

Merritt:  Well, why do I prefer it, you just need to be square.

 For comments or questions feel free to contact us and let us know what you  think.

Advanced Lesson Academy of Golf

Lightfoot designed the 10-week Junior Scholarship Program to help children suffering from range of mental disorders, from attention deficit to autism, uses golf as a tool to learn how to focus.

By Simone Weichselbaum, Daily News Staff Writer

In 2010 initiated a one-on-one junior and parent scholarship mentor Golf Program for inspired individuals from the age of 6 thru 17, building links and language for both student and parent to learn together.  www.Bunkershot.com

Advanced Lesson Academy of Golf aim is to offer golf instruction to parents with juniors who challenge with learning difficulties, autism and other pervasive disorders in their specialized mentor golf program. African American Golfers Digest

Advanced Lesson Academy of Golf launched its Parent Junior Mentor Golf Program Saturday, June 19^th, 2010 at the Brooklyn Golf Center located on Flatbush Ave. Brooklyn New York, across from the Historical Floyd Bennett Field District.

Junior Golfer Emilio Rodriquez and Charles Lightfoot test and align a workstation for use of JC Video system

ALAG has put together a great program for 2010 fitted with grass and weather protected practice tee area for improvement of full swing, chipping, pitching and putting techniques.  Adjacent to the grass practice area is a miniature putt-putt on hand for added fun and excitement. Surprisingly, the Brooklyn Golf Center was the first driving range where I was introduced to hitting my first golf ball.

ALAG delivers a powerful and effective training program to assist parents with children challenged by autism and other developmental disorders. This year ALAG offered six scholarships to residents of Suffolk, Brooklyn New York and Fort Lee, New Jersey

The mentor model techniques we offer can be easily learned and used by any parent and junior who develop a desire to learn the game golf.

Mel Rodriquez, in the blue shirt first time working with Vincent assisting him in building a proper grip, club alignment and position his body to stimulate motor skills for developing power and control.

Mel Rodriquez; “In my own words “

Charles has introduced me to another important task that we must all take on and that is to pay forward to those who may be less fortunate or capable. I am involved in Lightfoots’ unique program to bring these gifts of experiencing golf to children with special emotional and behavioral needs. I have been moved by what we were able to accomplish in just one session with a beautiful six-year-old boy by the name of Vincent.

Vincent is autistic and his father brought him to our program in order for his son to experience something that would be a positive force in his presently confused world. After realizing, that the way to treat the child is with a positive, reinforced, fluid environment, we were able to have this young boy understand and execute some of the basic routines in preparing to hit a golf shot. I am not about to tell you that he will be the next “Tiger” (that will most likely not happen), but what we were able to accomplish was to have Vincent repeatedly tee up a golf ball, position himself at address, and with some assistance, attempt a golf swing.

This may not seem like a huge accomplishment but it was a great moment for his father. For a single moment his father could see something in his son that we take for granted; normalcy. Vincent’s father and family carry the burden of a special needs child. If our program can give a few moments of normalcy in this world that forgets those less fortunate or capable, then we have been able to be the light at the end of the tunnel to those who really need hope and encouragement.

The scholarship program schedule is for 10 one-hour sessions of instruction; 11:00am. to 5pm Thursday and Saturday, June, July, and August. It is designed for students at moderate athletic levels. A small student to instructor ratio will allow players to become exposed to the fundamentals and physical dynamics of the golf swing. Interactive instruction will be focused on motion techniques that enhance learning and development.

Mel Rodriquez, working with Vincent stimulating his motor skills for developing balance with hand signals

Coaching children with Autism in how to play golf

by Mark Santos, MA in Special Education and Health Science Education, 25 years as an Education specialist, ALAG consultant

Learning Tips we use in our program

1.  Think and teach visually. Many autistic kids are visual thinker and learners using pictures and other visual aids during teaching is helpful. Visual aids are especially effective when teaching general golf concepts, directional terms, and golf/body term recognition.

2.  Use golf as the special talent to connect with the child, improve  skills, and increase attention. If the child is interested in certain things, then  incorporate them into your   session. For example, you can count golf balls to swing at or play a video about golf with subtitles to improve word recognition. If the child has tactile sensory problems, searching for the best grip may be a motivational tool to encourage acceptance of different textures, such as grass, sand, or water as later, when the child is actually playing, he or she has better knowledge of  the problems one encounters in a golf game.

3.  Be aware of environmental distractions, such as bright lights and loud sounds, which may interfere with learning or comfort. You must consider sensory needs during teaching anything,particularly a sport which requires great hand-eye coordination.  Some children learn better when moving or using their hands, while other children may require silence or near-darkness in order to concentrate. Golf instructors must try out a variety of sensory environments  to determine which one is most conducive to learning.

l. Vincent's dad, Charles and Emilio reviewing Video images of Vincents diagnostic system

4.  Utilize technology, such as photograph, video, and diagnostic swing analysis systems. Because autistic children usually respond better to visual cues than verbal or written instructions, comparison images may be beneficial. Some children find it easier to communicate by mimicking than by speaking or writing. Encourage use of the latest golf diagnostic technology to improve communication.

5.  Avoid figurative language, and make your expectations simple and clear. Use only concrete terms, and reinforce those ideas with pictures or modeling. Avoid lengthy verbal instructions, and break tasks and instructions into clearly defined steps. Wait for the child to complete the first step before moving on to the next one.

6.  Be aware of generalizations. Children with autism often associate a skill or behavior with one specific location. For example, the child may pick up a golf club and swing it around in the kitchen  at home without realizing he must only do this outside and definitely at the practice range or other more appropriate locations.

Behavior and sensory Tips

1.  Do not reinforce undesired behavior. If the child asks for juice, give him juice, even if he really wants milk. The same holds true in golf. If the child asks for a putter, give it to him and help him figure out the differences and advantages of each type of club and how they are used.  Use prompting to help the child respond appropriately, and then reward correct responses. Ignore negative behaviors and incorrect responses, but do not punish the child.

2.  Stick to a routine. Kids with autistic disorders need routine to feel secure. Even the slightest disruption in schedule can cause regression or tantrums. A daily planner that includes photos or other visual aids is a helpful tool for many parents and teachers. Schedule golf  times and therapy at the same time every day. Prepare the child in advance, whenever possible, for schedule changes or trips away from familiar locations.

3.  Use repetition to modify behavior, teach new skills, and improve communication. Autistic children learn and retain information more easily when given that information repeatedly and in a variety of settings. Contrary to what some people believe, repetition will not encourage robotic speech or behavior in an autistic child.

4.  Tackle one problem at a time when attempting to modify behavior. If the child has multiple behavioral problems, make a list of these problems and rank them in order of importance or severity. Address behaviors that place the child or his caretakers at risk first. Choose one problem at a time, and then work with the child until that behavior reaches an acceptable level. Trying to change too many behaviors simultaneously is rarely effective.

5.  Use modeling to improve socialization. Because they have a difficult time reading and processing social cues, autistic children require help to know how to act and respond in specific situations particularly in a place where the ability to concentrate must be afforded to everyone. One of the most effective means of teaching social skills is through modeling. If your goal is to teach the child to shake hands following a good lesson, you must model this behavior by shaking hands in front of him when encountering new people.

Be patient and understanding with yourself and the child. Working with an autistic child can be frustrating, and it may take considerable time before you see improvements. Remember to take frequent breaks, and do not feel discouraged if your attempts are initially unsuccessful.

Advanced Lesson Academy Of Golf is located at:

Brooklyn Golf Center Brooklyn, New York

3200 Flatbush Ave. New York 11234

718-253-6816

If you wish to discuss any aspect of this article, please don’t hesitate to visit our web site or call us at 201-892-3278 or e-mail us as advancedlesson@earthlink.net.

After a long cross-country trek through four time zones, PGA TOUR professionals, flying from the 2010 US Open at Pebble Beach to the TRAVELERS CHAMPIONSHIP at the TPC RIVER HIGHLANDS in Cromwell, Ct. may make this the beginning of a fresh start and a new look at their game. 

One of these pros, Adam Scott, a 29-year-old Australian native, who missed the cut at the Open 150 +8, is eager for a win. Since this would be Scott’s first Travelers’ Championship event, he decided to hang around Pebble Beach to practice on the range before boarding his charter flight on Monday, which was provided by the Travelers’ Championship.

Adam Scott

When asked if Scott took advantage of the charter flight he stated, “Yes, it was great, convenient…I saw a lot of guys on there that I’m sure would have a second thought about playing this tournament if there wasn’t a flight. So they (Travelers Championship) are doing the right thing, and they (The Players) are really grateful for that and happy to be here.” 

 Next, he was asked what he needed to do to win after the US Open test. And how does this course fit his game?

 SCOTT: Yeah, the course is looking good. You know, coming from Pebble Beach, it's a lot softer than Pebble was, so I can see good scores coming this week from the guys.

I think a lot of us will come out and make a lot of birdies and get our confidence back up from maybe getting beaten down last week. But it's in great shape. It's a course that a lot of the TPC courses have some similarities to, and I've always played them well, so I’m looking forward to getting out there this week and seeing some putts go in.

Approaching the 4th Hole fairway Par 4- 460Yards

 It’s likely Scott’s body will demand an adjustment period at some point. It can be hard both physically and mentally if the "River Highlands" course at the TPC plays rough and the wind picks up.  Instead of hitting the range to stay in his game, he might have to consider staying in bed. Not surprisingly, younger players tend to adjust to time changes better than their older competitors, in that sense Scott may choose the latter.

Unfortunately, traveling between multiple time zones changes the light-dark cycles in your surroundings, which can disturb your body's circadian rhythm. A time change of even a few hours may not seem significant, but often it is enough to affect the body's ability to maintain good rhythm, timing, and tempo, essential when trying to keep a Tour average 283.4 drive in the fairway. Rolling in putts is certainly what Scott needs to improve to help him be around for Sunday . I asked a local resident Bob Wheeler, what he thought about the players flying in from the West coast, and he was delighted to offer, "taking a short nap under the shade of a big bur oak, maple, sycamore, or eastern white pine gently placed along rolling fairways wouldn't be a bad idea, providing it doesn't slow play.”

Upon entering New York City whether for a weekend getaway or on a business trip, and you should find yourself on the FDR Drive roughly in the vicinity of East 116th street, you will notice a spectacular, super-size, yellow and blue striped structure across the waterway.

 On April 9, 2010, the huge colorful tents were raised along with the excitement for the return of one the most exciting contemporary events: “Cirque du Soleil”. Here on limited engagement until June 6th, the climate-controlled interior offers guests exceptional comfort with the scent of blossoming flowers.  Located on an extraordinary site, east of the city’s main river channel, it was once called “Minnahanonck” by America’s indigenous Algonquian speaking Wappingers, a Lenape people. In 1784 it was named after Jonathan Randel. Randall’s island is now the permanent home of “Cirque du Soleil” hosting its latest production “OVO” under “Le Grand Chapiteau”.

 OVO is the newest addition to its collection of superb performances, full of exultation and “joie de vivre”.  A team of brilliant artists led the gutsy production, Writer, Director and Choreographer, Deborah Colker (who became the first Brazilian artist to receive the Lawrence Oliver Award for Outstanding Achievement in Dance in 2001 for her work “MIX”), heads the team. In 2002, she was invited by the Komische Opera in Berlin to choreograph an original work, “Casa and Ela”. In 2006 she continued on to create Maracana for the Culture Factory of Kampnagel in Hamburg. Today, OVO expands this amazing choreographer’s reputation by expressing her style and her established trademark of “diversity and unrest”

 The Tapis Rouge was a wonderful introduction to the show which included preferred reserved parking, separate entrance, hors d’oeuvres, boutique, fine wines, beer, refreshments, gifts and desserts during intermission

 What is there to say? The show quickly drew my attention the very moment I entered the tent grounds way before I entered the tent itself where this pesky-bug event was to take place. Traditionally, in the old style circus performances local residents would gather to hoist the huge ropes to lift the massive structures. The seats offer exceptional angles that provide a non-obstructed view, eliminating the necessity for stretching or twisting

 The storyline is a dazzling spectacle of insect life filled with a mixture of comedy and aerial feats, jaw dropping scenic displays of rhythmic athleticism, energized acrobatic stunts, stimulating lights, one of a kind costumes, and extraordinary music. The show adds a piquant charm to this entertainment art form as it moves to transform creepy-crawly and flying manifestations into human forms that, without a struggle, expose the projected future of genetic engineering (at the circus of all places). Maybe the concept of the aluminous “OVO” or “Egg” symbolizes reintroducing a life form into a community where Dragon’s, Fire Flies, Crickets, Roaches, Spiders, Fleas, Ants and Scarabs, which are regarded as sacred by the ancient Egyptians, co-exist.

 The list of creative talents goes on, but I will only introduce two more. The brilliant lighting organization is the product of designer Eric Champoux, a 1997 Graduate of the National Theatre School of Canada. He is well known in the theater circuit for his lighting effects and numerous theatrical designs in productions throughout Quebec and Europe. Unique to his artistry is his ability to create lighting mixtures that compliment the musical arrangements of composer and musical director Berna Ceppas and co-producer Alain Venet who bring together the beauty of Brazilian music amass a seamless imagination that moves the performance dynamically with a tasteful statement of insightful musicality with images of energy and freedom. The score was more vibrant than not, but occasionally I could hear moments of calm amplification.

 Every artiste resembled an identifiable insect with the exception of one that looked like a giant slinky, who was actually “Carimbo of the Creatura” performing a samba. Every act uncovered the essence of lightness; as each actor moved around the stage treating gravity with contempt.  I won’t reveal what scene I liked the most because they were all spectacular. There are many other scenes that are outstanding but if you focus on the cocoon/butterfly rope routine you might agree it is one of the most beautiful acrobatic routines in which Inna Mayorova seductively emerges from a long silk cocoon above the stage.

 Sitting up front is very exciting, making you feel right in the action of the show; you even get a chance to experience the high wire stare straining the back of the neck. There really wasn't a bad seat in the house, except possibly the outermost far right or left of the stage. Every seat near me was close enough for you to feel the high intensity of the music that pulsated through you body. The music is produced so well that it synchronizes you into each and every scene with pure excellence.

A large part of the two-part one-hour presentation with a thirty-minute intermission displays a favorable array of dramatic rituals, some which reach a peak of spiritual solemnity. It also brings you a fascinating repertoire of insects with emphasis on traceable movements for real affect.  The crew made transition from scene to scene rather easily with the aide of performers assisting in rearranging and setting up props, webs and flying platforms without trapezes.

New York deserves good, artful entertainment and Cirque du Soleil does just that with its array of brilliant colors that can satisfy all your senses and arthropod pleasures. 

BY AUTOMOBILE travel via the RFK Bridge is a safe bet as it offers a smooth and easy approach; expect to pay twenty-dollars for parking. There may be other locations where you can park but they may require a three to four minute walk.

Remember all routes to the Island can be unpredictable so give your self enough time

 THE NEW YORK WATER TAXI provides round-trip ferry service for every performance of OVO. Departure points include Pier 16 at the South Street Seaport (for weekday evening performances only), East 35th Street, and East 90th Street. Departures start approximately 90 minutes prior to show time. Tickets cost $15 one-way, $20 round trip. Departures start approximately 90 minutes prior to show time.

 DIRECTIONS TO RANDALL’S ISLAND are located under the RFK Bridge on the East River, between Manhattan, the Bronx and Queens.

Were to Dine:

 Lure Fishbar, flashy, slightly pretentious and proud of it, is located at 142 Mercer St.  (Between Prince St. & Houston St.) There you will find Chef Josh Capon doing magical things with seafood in his stylish subterranean eatery set in a retro yacht moored in Saint Tropez. I suggest casual dress, although things could get sizzling and full of activity with stylish diners.

(l.) Enid Alvarez (r.) Charles Lightfoot and Simone Weichselbaum

 The price range was $$$. We started with an assortment of sushi combination followed by the whole Branzino. And, finished off with a glass of Cabernet from the Lure’s great wine selection.

Chef Josh Capon, LureFish Bar and Charles Lightfoot

 Where to Play:

 Of New York’s many golf courses Van Cortlandt Golf Course is conveniently located within an hour of the city.  It is situated in Van Cortlandt Park on Van Cortland Ave. & Bailey Ave. in the Bronx. It is one of the oldest national golf courses, opened in 1895 and was expanded to eighteen holes ten years later. Willie Mays, Joe Louis, Willie Nelson, Babe Ruth and The Three Stooges were frequent hackers. Will Larkin, General Manager, said the course is now under new management who has renewed the greens, tee boxes, cart paths, bunkers, and locker rooms.  It is a good choice that offers a combination of affordability with park-like terrine and tree-lined landscape. The best way to get there from the city is to take the Major Deegan Expressway North to 230 Street.

 If you require a playing partner or an instructional player coach, contact Advanced Lesson Academy of Golf at 2018923278 or e-mail: advancedlesson@earthlink.net