Taste Kitchen + Bar owner, Chef Bowie, hosted The Inaugural Taste of Houston Charity Golf Weekend at Golf Club of Houston. Supporters and sponsors gathered for this two day celebrity amateur golf tournament in an effort to raise forty thousand dollars for two nonprofit organizations: First-Tee Greater Houston and Little Birdies Mobile Golf Academy.
First Tee-Greater Houston has reached over 3 million children in their twenty years of service. They are passionate about the children in their program not only learning the game of golf, but also building their confidence, and character along the way. Little Birdies Mobile Golf Academy is a new program in Harris County that provides golf lessons to inner-city children between the grades of Pre-K and 12th grade. Their mission statement is “to impact the lives of young people by exposing them to golf, a sport that integrates math and science concepts and models key character lessons that will improve him or her as a whole.” Golf lessons are scheduled throughout the fall and spring semesters at various schools and churches around the city. Both organizations have a positive vision and actively participate in uplifting and inspiring the community. These efforts are what lead Chef Bowie to create a way to contribute to their good work in last weekend’s golf tournament.
“The theme of this inaugural event is ‘Teeing off for a better tomorrow’. The work that First Tee and Little Birdies do for kids and youth goes way beyond the golf course. We’re thrilled to bring golfers of every level, celebrities, and the community together for a weekend of golf and goodwill to help young people in Houston learn and grow with the game.” said Bowie.
Day one of the event began with players arriving at the beautiful Club House in good spirits, some enjoying breakfast before the big day. Chef Bowie lead the shotgun game with a thankful speech before everyone warmed up their swing. Special guest Kevin Brewston was taking note of other players to get a feel of the game. “I’m a little worried about the wind but looking at these swings, I can tell there’s some good players out here.” There was plenty of music and food to enjoy but Chef Bowie’s purpose of the event was never lost. Every single person spoke highly of goodness that will come from the fundraising mission.
Some notable names in attendance were Pastor Keion Henderson of Lighthouse Church and Ministries, mixed martial artist and UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley, NBA player Moochie Norris, NFL quarterback Vince Young, IG comedian TC illKillYa, Bi “Killer Bee” Nguyen, Flag Football champ? Nadia Bibbs, And NFL Veteran James Ihedigbo.
When asked about the importance of the Charity Golf and how important it is to the nonprofit organizations benefiting, James Ihediagbo spoke enthusiastically of how impactful these types of programs are to the communities and children they help. “I’m here to support my brother, Chef Bowie. Golf is about community. It teaches personal development and mental focus. They will have great opportunity to network; this is a sport that opens paths to build new relationships. Like bridges in life, this game can truly take you to places that you can’t imagine.”
While speaking with guests, a common thread between them all is the acknowledgment of focus and peace, both needed and found while learning how to play. An enriching experience that people of all ages, especially children can use to improve their mental capacity, self-development and internal balance. Counselor and psychotherapist Glenda Demas partnered with Skyla Williams of Golf with BB during the game. Demas was a sponsor of the event who is passionate about mental health. She was there in support of Chef Bowie’s fundraising and the children being in the benefiting nonprofits. “My love for golf comes from understanding its benefits. Golf is therapeutic. It helps with anxiety, ADHD, I’ve seen it help so many people. This is a great event, I am so glad to be here to support.”
His nonprofit organization, Chef Bowie Cares, Inc., has supported education initiatives and providing assistance to families and second chance citizens since 2022. Although a new nonprofit, they have already teamed up with great partners including the City of Houston and the US Marine Toys for Tots. The Taste of Houston. Charity Golf Weekend is now another amazing effort to assist families thrive. Thanks to the money raised, more black and brown children will have the tools needed to grow into self-assured adults.
Day two of the golf tournament weekend started a little earlier but was full of the same positive energy from amazing people contributing to the good cause. Each participant had the opportunity to sponsor a student in either First-Tee Greater Houston or Little Birdies Mobile Golf Academy. The competition was more intense for day two as players competed for cash prizes at certain holes. IG comedian Tarion Caldwell graced the place with his bright humor, ready for the competition.
The entire weekend was a success, raising thirty one thousand dollars for their altruistic cause. Many contributors were able to witness their altruistic endeavors as members of Little Birdies Mobile Academy were on the green. Students and their instructors were able to play on the PGA course along with the all of the special guests who came out. One of the biggest sponsors, Ed Warren, owner of Gas Gods, spoke well of all Chef Bowie has done and looks forward to a greater future as he continues to grow.
“I hope with Chef’s consistency, things will only get better. More sponsors, more guests, and greater giving.”
