HARROD, Ohio (WLIO) — Golfers came together to honor the legacy of a Lima woman who was killed nearly 30 years ago.
Bonita Haynes was tragically killed at the Lima Correctional Institute by inmates in 1996 while working as a case worker at the prison. To keep her memory alive, the Lima Affiliate of the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice, along with other local nonprofits, hosts a Memorial Golf Scramble in her name. Around 60 golfers hit the links at Colonial Golfers Club to raise money for a scholarship fund also named in Haynes’ honor, helping students further their education.
“So, this particular golf outing has served a couple of different purposes, not only for scholarships, but then also in memory of her. And we are so sad about the tragedy that happened, to be able to name this after her, but we're also keeping her memory alive, not just for us as an organization, but also for us as community individuals from the city of Lima,” said Dr. Lisa Bradley-Glenn, Bonita L. Haynes Memorial Golf Scramble.
The golfers said they are glad to take part in such a meaningful event.
“For community members to be able to remember the horrific situation that took place many, many years ago, but still come together and galvanize in a way in which that we can play golf and we can have fun, we can raise money. It's just important to just be able to support this initiative,” said Dr. Willie Heggins, executive director of Heir Force Community School.
Over the years, the golf scramble has helped raise more than $13,000 for about 25 scholarships.
