Golf Emergency Relief Fund Delivers Over $4 Million In Phase 1 Grants

In the face of overwhelming need from workers across the golf industry suffering hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Golf Emergency Relief Fund has awarded over $4 million to more than 3,300 individuals seeking assistance during Phase 1 of the initiative. Registration limits were reached within 24 hours after the fund was opened on April 15.

The Buckle Suspends Dividend

The Buckle Inc. announced that at its quarterly meeting of the Board of Directors, held on June 1, the Board temporarily suspended the company’s quarterly dividend payments.

Arena Football League Assets Up For Public Auction

An online auction of the assets of the Arena Football League (AFL), which ceased operations and filed for bankruptcy last November, will take place through June 23. Assets include memorabilia, equipment, and intellectual property from five AFL teams: Albany Empire, Atlantic City Blackjacks, Baltimore Brigade, Philadelphia Soul, Washington Valor, as well as the intellectual property of the Columbus Destroyers. 

Nike’s CEO Speaks Out Against Racism

John Donahoe, CEO of Nike, sent a memo to employees regarding George Floyd’s death where he said, “Nike is opposed to bigotry” and supports the nationwide peaceful protests.

NRF Issues Statement On Incidents At Retail Stores

In response to the incidents involving retailers following the death of George Floyd, NRF’s President and CEO Matthew Shay said in a statement, “Defacing, looting and plundering businesses, whether viewed as a direct outgrowth of fury or an opportunistic act of vandalism and theft, impedes progress and healing.”

VF’s CEO In Employee Memo Compares Racism To Virus

In a letter sent May 30 to all employees entitled, “Racism is another virus to eradicate,” VF chairman, president and CEO Steve Rendle called George Floyd’s death “tragic” and “stomach-churning” — and likened racism to the coronavirus pandemic.

Sports Industry Takes A Stand Against Racial Injustice

Nike, Foot Locker Adidas, Brooks, Nordstrom, New Balance, and Under Armour were among the companies in the active lifestyle industry issuing statements and messages appealing for solidarity against racism amid the protests in the U.S. over the death of George Floyd.