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In an effort to increase diversity in professional golf, the Northern Trust Open announced today that it is accepting applications for the 2010 Northern Trust Open Exemption. The annual exemption, sponsored by Northern Trust Corporation (Nasdaq: NTRS), provides the opportunity for a top golfer who represents the advancement of diversity in golf and wouldn't otherwise be eligible to compete in the 2010 tournament, which will be held February 1-7 at the historic Riviera Country Club. Now in its second year, the Northern Trust Open Exemption is an extension of Northern Trust's commitment to diversity. Northern Trust has received multiple awards for corporate excellence and diversity, including being named a "Best Company for Working Mothers" by Working Mother Magazine for 18 years in a row, a "Best Company for Diverse Graduates" by Diversity Edge Magazine and one of the top 40 companies for diversity by Black Enterprise magazine. Northern Trust Corporation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Frederick H. Waddell said, "At Northern Trust, diversity is fundamental to our success. Diversity sparks innovation, enhances engagement with clients and staff, and strengthens relationships with the community. With this exemption, our goal is to continue to raise awareness of the importance of promoting diversity in professional golf." The Northern Trust Open shares a history of promoting inclusion among minorities. In 1952, the tournament welcomed Joe Louis as the first African-American to compete in a PGA sanctioned event. In 2009, the inaugural tournament exemption was named in honor of Charlie Sifford on the 40th anniversary of his victory at the 1969 Northern Trust Open. Vincent Johnson, a two-time college winner who graduated from Oregon State in three years, was the Northern Trust Open Exemption's first recipient. "Receiving this unique exemption at the 2009 Northern Trust Open was an incredible honor," said Johnson. "I am grateful to Northern Trust and the tournament for not only giving me the chance to play on the PGA TOUR, but for recognizing the need to increase opportunity for minority golfers in professional golf." Johnson later competed in GOLF CHANNEL's "This exemption is a distinguishing feature of our tournament," said Jerry West, Northern Trust Open executive director. "As we reflect on the challenges great players like Charlie Sifford and Lee Elder faced during their careers, it is an honor for the Northern Trust Open to encourage participation by players of all backgrounds." The Northern Trust Open has launched a new online submission process (www.northerntrustopen.com) for the 2010 exemption which begins today and will close on January 8, 2010. The application requires general biographical information and details on the applicant's golf accomplishments. The candidates are also asked to explain how they have represented the advancement of diversity in golf. In order to qualify for the exemption, applicants must have a USGA handicap of zero or better. Candidates will be identified through a number of sources including the PGA TOUR, PGA of America through the PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship, Nationwide Tour, The First Tee, World Golf Foundation, USGA and Bill Dickey Scholarship Association. The exemption recipient will be selected through the tournament office and Northern Trust and is expected to be announced on January 18, 2010. Contact: Cathryn Raia About Northern Trust About the PGA TOUR In 2009, the three Tours are competing in 100 events for more than $350 million in prize money. Tournaments are held in 10 countries outside the U.S. and in 35 states. In addition to providing competitive opportunities for its membership, TOUR events also generate significant funds for local charities. In fact, the three Tours have surpassed the $1 billion mark in overall charitable contributions. The PGA TOUR's web site address is www.pgatour.com and the company is headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.
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