The LPGA Tour "pulled the plug" on its MA-based
areaWEB.com Challenge next season after "charging rights-
holder Entertainment Sports Equities (ESE) with non-payment
of an amount in the six-figure range," according to Joe
Gordon of the BOSTON HERALD. LPGA Tour Commissioner Ty
Votaw said the Tour "terminated [its] agreement with
Entertainment Sports Equities for a number of reasons. One
is that they have failed to pay us the money that is owed to
us for the 1999 tournament." Votaw said that ESE "owes
money" to Pleasant Valley Country Club Owner Ted Mingolla
and The Golf Channel. Votaw "insisted ESE provide financial
security in advance of the 2000 tournament in order to
consider going forward," but the LPGA has told ESE that its
"alleged breach of performance has nullified the contract"
and "is considering options to recover the money." Votaw is
"hopeful something can be done" to stage the tournament in
2001 (BOSTON HERALD, 11/23). Also in Boston, Jim McCabe
reports that ESE CEO Alan Morell "has filed a counter-suit,
charging Mingolla with five counts, including breach of
contract," and is seeking $360,000 plus damages. Morell
"did not deny that ESE owes money to the LPGA Tour," but he
wouldn't reveal how much. Morell added that the problem
"can be traced to" title sponsor areaWEB.com and presenting
sponsor ladiesgolf.com that "did not live up to their
financial agreement" (BOSTON GLOBE, 11/23).
