Golfers Unite for Arts Clayton

The Crystal Lake Golf Course was alive with more than 80 golfers who came together not just for competition, but for a cause, supporting the mission of Arts Clayton. Founded in 1986, the Jonesboro based gallery has always stood as a home for creativity, shaping the lives of students in Clayton County schools while giving local and emerging artists a stage to share their gifts.

For nearly two decades, the annual golf tournament has been a signature way to keep that mission thriving. “As much as I love the arts, they do not fund themselves,” said Executive Director Kaysie Lazzaro, underscoring why this event is more than just a round of golf. It is a vehicle for scholarships, programs, and arts education across the community.

This year’s tournament added a new dimension with a live fundraising drive streamed on the gallery’s Instagram. For three hours, KB of KB Sports Media welcomed golfers at the first hole, capturing conversations about their love for the arts, their connection to Arts Clayton, and their commitment to giving back. Donations, large and small, rolled in as players and supporters stopped by to share their stories.

Board member and Economic Development Officer Erica Rocker, Arts Clayton President Tim Hynes, leaders from Georgia Power, Clayton County Water Authority, and the Salute Military Golf Association of Georgia all took part in the day. Each presence reflected a broader truth that the arts belong to the whole community.

One story stood out. Ameera Thomas, a Mt. Zion graduate and former college basketball player now emerging as a multimedia artist, spoke with KB about her passion for photography and painting. She shared her desire to pour into others the way mentors once poured into her. For many, Ameera embodied what Arts Clayton is about, nurturing talent and proving the arts are not only possible but powerful.

The tournament also saw familiar names show support, including Clayton County Tax Commissioner Danielle Smith and Allan Vigil Ford Lincoln’s Michael Vigil. The Vigil family’s connection runs deep. Allan Vigil himself was an original founding member of Arts Clayton, a legacy continued through his son’s involvement today.

Competition remained part of the story as well. The men’s leaderboard ended in a tie, with Jefferson and Brown edging out Vigil, Shurbutt, Andrews, and Schwendinger on a tiebreaker, both posting a score of 55. On the women’s side, Fulks placed second after another tiebreaker with a score of 72, while Smith, Lazzaro, Rocker, and Jones captured first place with the same tally.

It was in every way a day of food, fun, fellowship, and fundraising. The fairway may have closed at sunset, but the mission continues. Arts Clayton remains a beacon on South Main Street in Jonesboro, always welcoming donations and always opening its doors to the next generation of artists.

To support their work, visit: DONATE | ARTS CLAYTON GALLERY