The Latest Bivens Era Fiasco

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logo_header_LPGA.gifIf you wonder why many believe the hiring of LPGA Commissioner Carolyn Bivens is not looking too hot, this story ought to give you some idea where things are headed for a tour that is otherwise on the rise.

Actually, before you read it, keep in mind a little behind the scenes saga that was just averted last week.

It seems that Bivens wanted to give USA Today (where she used to work!) first right to release and print the new Rolex World Ranking. The AP and others questioned the fairness (and logic) behind the move.

Until the last moment, it appeared Bivens was going to follow through with the USA Today fiasco. Someone obviously changed her mind because all news agencies received the rankings at the same time, except weekly magazines that needed them in advance of presstime midday Monday.

So now it seems the LPGA wants control of photographs taken at their events. To receive a credential, reporters and photographers must sign away rights that say the use of any photograph used after the event covered requires LPGA approval.  ap_logo.jpg

This AP story spells out what may become exhibit A in why Bivens may not be the right person for the LPGA job, bypassing her handling of longtime official Barb Trammell, the suspect Annika-Creamer ruling or her first press conference.

The Associated Press was denied credentials to cover the LPGA Fields Open tournament Wednesday in a dispute over new restrictions on use of its stories and photos.

AP reporter Jaymes Song was not allowed on the course during Wednesday's practice rounds or in the media room to cover Michelle Wie's pretournament news conference after refusing to sign the credential form with the new restrictions. Freelance photographer Ronen Zilberman also refused to sign the form and was denied a credential.

It's one thing to ban the photographer from the East Valley Penny Saver, but you don't mess with AP when you are already begging for media coverage in newspapers.