PGA Tour pays tribute to President Ford; Adam Scott to be hot in 2007

The PGA Tour released yesterday a warm tribute to U.S. President and golfer Gerald Ford, who died Tuesday at 93 years old. Ford developed into something of an ambassador to the game of golf …

“In addition to all his well-documented public accomplishments, President Ford made tremendous contributions to the game of golf,” PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem said in the statement. “His support included participation in many of our pro-ams and, in so doing, helped to generate awareness and significant dollars for our tournament charities.”

In its annual “The Leap” column, a prediction of which golfers will jump to the next level in the season ahead, ESPN.com’s Weekly 18 forecasted a surge to No. 2 in the world for Australian golfer Adam Scott in 2007. Scott, 26, proved his star power by winning the PGA Tour Championship this season and is currently the fourth-ranked player in the world …

Rocker Alice Cooper has reportedly entered the 48th Bob Hope Chrysler Classic, held in the middle of January. A golf enthusiast, Cooper has said the game helped him overcome many challenges in his life …

At GolfArizona.com, Chris Baldwin writes about the rise of wine bars in Phoenix-Scottsdale, one of the country’s top high-end golf destinations.