Earth Shaping News 1st Quater 2017 by Golf Course Builders Association of America

EARTH SHAPING NEWS www.gcbaa.org

Published Quarterly by the Golf Course Builders Association of America

1st Quarter 2017

GCBAA members leave their mark at 2017 Golf Industry Show MEMBERS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY JOINED IN ORLANDO TO CELEBRATE THE INDUSTRY’S LARGEST TRADE SHOW Another Winter Meeting has come and gone, yet we find ourselves reminded of what was an incredible week at the 2017 Golf Industry Show (GIS). There was no shortage of excitement as GCBAA members and industry friends gathered under the roof of the Orange County Convention Center for this year’s trade show. And then there was that other roof...the one on I-Drive that hosted over 500 members at the GCBAA Opening Reception!

GCBAA PAST PRESIDENT TOMMY SASSER CATCHING UP WITH FELLOW ASSOCIATION MEMBERS RAY BALL AND SCOTT TOLLEY, NICKLAUS DESIGN IN THE GCBAA BOOTH

Your staff is challenged with just how to begin recapping a week like this. Keep it short and sweet, or dive into every nook and cranny of the meeting? They say a picture is worth a thousand words so we’ll let that do most the talking. Each GIS seems busier than the one before. This year, show attendees were treated to a trade show with nearly 600 exhibitors and thousands of square feet of exhibit space. And of that 600, 82 were GCBAA members! We can’t thank you enough for supporting the Show and making GCBAA’s footprint bigger and better every year. For those that exhibited, we hope you had a successful Show with countless of visitors to your booth. The GCBAA and Foundation had booths as well; and were surrounded by plenty of friendly neighbors. This year was unique in that every direction we looked, we were facing a GCBAA member company. GCBAA member booths surrounded “Inside the Ropes” – an interactive demo area that showcased new products such as bunker liners and electric mowers. That area deserves special recognition on its own so please make sure to catch page 10 for a full recap. The trade show concluded with the Foundation’s annual Harley Raffle; although this time was unlike anything we had experienced. When our good GCBAA STAFF TAKING A QUICK PHOTO WITH DON buddy, Nathan Sosing, drew ROSSI RECIPIENT DEANE BEMAN the winning ticket and handed it over to be announced, we heard crickets. After a few seconds of anticipation, GCBAA Executive Director Justin Apel shared that the winning ticket didn’t have a name on it! We immediately started working backwards and based off the email address on the ticket, could finally notify Rob Trebilcock of Hibiscus Golf Club that he had just won a 2017 Harley-Davidson. Rob has his new toy and can be found cruising the streets of Naples, FL. Read more on the Chuck Cloud Memorial Raffle on page 8.

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INSIDE President’s Perspective Executive Director Notes Foundation Update Human Resources Developer’s Guide Allied Associations New Members Movers & Shapers Advertisers

Back to the Winter Meeting. After a day of Board and Committee meetings, members assembled for the GCBAA General Membership Meeting, which gave the group a chance to thank outgoing board members Terry Gwinn (Best Sand Corp) and Mike Crone COVER STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

President’s Perspective

Scott Veazey GCBAA PRESIDENT

CHARTER MEMBERS ACC GOLF CONSTRUCTION ADS/HANCOR, INC. ASPEN CORPORATION BOYD IRRIGATION, INC. BRYANT TAYLOR GORDON GOLF CAL OLSON GOLF ARCHITECTURE CATERPILLAR, INC. COLORADO LINING INTERNATIONAL, INC. DUININCK GOLF DYE DESIGNS INTERNATIONAL EAGLE GOLF & LANDSCAPE PRODUCTS EWING IRRIGATION FLEETWOOD SERVICES LLC FLOWTRONEX FORWARD GROUP GLASE GOLF, INC. HARCO FITTINGS HARTMAN COMPANIES, INC. HENDERSON & COMPANY, INC. HERITAGE LINKS HUNTER INDUSTRIES ISCO INDUSTRIES J L PIERMAN INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATES, INC. JACKLINGOLF JOHN DEERE LANDSCAPES UNLIMITED, LLC LANDIRR, INC. LASCO FITTINGS INC. LEEMCO INC. LEPANTO GOLF CONSTRUCTION INC. MACCURRACH GOLF MCDONALD & SONS, INC. MEDALIST GOLF MID-AMERICA GOLF & LANDSCAPE, INC. NMP GOLF CONSTRUCTION, CORP. PROFILE PRODUCTS LLC QGS DEVELOPMENT, INC. RAIN BIRD CORPORATION – GOLF DIVISION RYAN INC. CENTRAL RYANGOLF CORPORATION SHAPEMASTERS, INC. SOUTHEASTERN GOLF, INC. SPORTZMIX – WAUPACA SAND & SOLUTIONS SUNBELT RENTALS TDI INTERNATIONAL, INC. TEE-2-GREEN THE CART PATH COMPANY THE TORO COMPANY UNITED GOLF, LLC WADSWORTH GOLF CONSTRUCTION COMPANY WEST COAST TURF

Happy Spring to all of you. We are well underway with 2017 projects and as long as the weather continues to cooperate, we are off to a good start. The Golf Industry Show has quickly come and gone, yet it was anything but typical. GCBAA was very honored to participate in the “Inside the Ropes” bunker display. While the association has helped with construction projects in past years, this design was featured in the center of the tradeshow and allowed vendors to test drive their equipment and get a firsthand look at different bunker liner materials. We appreciate all of the vendors and volunteers that made this a success. A special thank you to GCBAA Certified Builder Chris Hill with Course Crafters, LLC for his help as project manager on this project. Chris put in countless hours and time to assist staff to pull this project together. I’m looking forward to our upcoming spring and summer travels; GCBAA Executive Director Justin Apel and I will be attending and representing GCBAA at several allied events. While we are visiting with our friends at the American Society of Golf Course Architects, we’ll be making new friends by attending the National Club Association annual meeting. Additionally, we will be working with the USGA and LPGA on some exciting Foundation initiatives. Your GCBAA Board of Directors had a very productive annual meeting and covered a lot of association business. We have been reviewing investment options for the assets the GCBAA has on-hand. As you know, we have invested over the past several years in our office in Lincoln, Nebraska, providing staffing, computers, and other items to allow the office to run as efficiently as possible. We were presented with a marketing plan that would assist the office with pushing more social and media marketing. We will continue to discuss this as a board and are pleased with what staff is already doing with our media partners. Our strategic plan and the objectives we have identified as priorities continue to be a large agenda item for our meetings. We are extremely pleased with the direction of the organization, especially addressing three of the top priorities for 2017: allied relationships, education, and membership benefits. A good discussion and something I have asked Justin and staff to pursue is recruiting more members to assist committees and volunteer at our various events. Whether you would like to help host a regional meeting, volunteer time at the GCBAA Booth during the Golf Industry Show, assist with Summer Meeting plans, or answer surveys sent by the office, please let us know if you’d like to step up your involvement with GCBAA. This is a great way to network with other members and grow your business. Thank you for your continued support of the organization and please consider volunteering some time to help us with our various initiatives. We look forward to seeing you at one of our upcoming events. Oh, and watch for our new website to be released soon! Do not ever hesitate to call on me or any member of the board with questions or concerns. Scott Veazey

Executive Director Notes Just when I think that my handwriting cannot get any worse, an afternoon mini-bike ride with my older brother proved that I am not as young as I use to be. A metal plate and screws keeps my clavicle bone together these days, setting off alarms at airport security indefinitely. After my accident, I couldn’t help but think about how we would get through the next few months. We had just purchased my parents’ home so they could downsize and we needed to help move them into their new townhome. Besides moving our possessions, we also wanted to do some remodeling. Being able to accomplish all of this with one arm did not look promising. Fortunately, with a lot of help from family and friends we are settled in and construction is well underway. Your association is staying busy as well. As you will see in this issue that “status quo” is not an option for GCBAA. Your staff and board of directors keep adding to our plates with each event. At the Golf Industry Show we were excited to offer the Golf Course Irrigation Contractor Certification Exam. Paul Granger offered a quick cram session for contractors and then during the show we offered the exam to our Certified Builder members who qualified. We will keep offering the exam throughout the year to members wanting to upgrade their status. The GCBAA Board of Governors held their annual meeting to review recertification of Certified Members. We were pleased ASGCA Past President Rick Phelps could join the group as they reviewed recertification applications. Our Opening Reception proved once again to be a “don’t miss” event. 2017 Don Rossi Recipient Deane Beman captured the room’s attention while he discussed the need for the game to change to invite and retain more players. Deane’s desire to keep improving the game is inspirational. We assume you heard and saw the “Inside the Ropes” project on the center of the tradeshow floor. The GCBAA was thrilled to partner with GCSAA, ASGCA, and countless others to pull off this project, and it received nonstop coverage from John Maginnes, co-host of Katrek and Maginnes on Tap; XM PGA TOUR Radio, The Golf Channel, Golf Course Maintenance Magazine, Golf Course Industry Magazine, and social media! This spring we are preparing for some exciting opportunities. We will be launching our new website and a “find a member” tool. National Golf Day has expanded to include a community improvement project, in which volunteers will be helping National Parks staff maintain the National Mall near the Capitol Building as well as lobby Congress on issues affecting the game. GCBAA President Scott Veazey and I will be attending the ASGCA Annual Meeting and, for the first time, we’ll join the National Club Association for their annual meeting. We are pleased to be working with our allied partners and educating the entire industry on the value of our members. Finally please help me say a special thank you to Program and Planning Manager Samantha Huff on her five-year anniversary with the GCBAA! Her hard work, dedication, positive attitude and great ideas have elevated our organization. We enjoy working with her and appreciate the support she gives to Stephanie and me, as well as the GCBAA & Foundation Board, Committees, Board of Governors, and membership! Keep up the great work!

Justin Apel GCBAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

EARTH SHAPING NEWS ©GOLF COURSE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

6040 S. 58th St., Suite D Lincoln, NE 68516 TEL (402) 476-4444 FAX (402) 476-4489 information@gcbaa.org www.gcbaa.org

Justin Apel EX ECUTIVE DIR ECTOR

justin_apel@gcbaa.org

Samantha Huff PROGR A M & PL A NNING M A NAGER

samantha_huff@gcbaa.org

Stephanie Bruss INFOR M ATION & EDUCATION COOR DINATOR

stephanie_bruss@gcbaa.org

Nebraska Printing Center DESIGN & L AYOUT

www.npcenter.com Information in this publication may be reproduced for non-profit education purposes. Please include source credit if reproducing. Contact the Executive Director if material is used for any other purpose to obtain written permission. News releases via email or fax are welcomed and encouraged.

Archived issues available at www.gcbaa.org.

Justin Apel

COVER STORY (CONT.)

(Clarke Construction Group), while welcoming aboard Greg Hufner (Total Turf Golf Services) and Chris Caccavale (Caterpillar Inc). We also recognized Lepanto Golf Construction, Inc. and United Golf, LLC for their commitment as new GCBAA Charter Members. Caterpillar Inc., Sunbelt Rentals and Profile Products LLC all shared details of the partnership program their respective companies are offering to GCBAA members, with proceeds benefitting our Foundation. What a great momentum builder leading into the night’s festivities! Our highly anticipated Opening Reception and Rossi Ceremony made for yet another special evening. With a packed ballroom, we recognized Mr. Deane Beman with our 2017 Don Rossi Award. Having him in Orlando with us to accept the award was a real treat, and his acceptance speech captioned everyone’s attention. As you flip through the rest of the newsletter, take time to read about all the sponsors, members and volunteers that made this year’s Winter Meeting, Foundation Raffle, and Golf Industry Show one to remember. On behalf of the Meetings Committee and Board of Directors, thank you for your support of this organization. GCBAA would like to specifically recognize the following member companies for their generous sponsorship of the Association’s events during the 2017 GIS.

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Make sure you pack your cowboy boots for next year because we’re heading to San Antonio! Trade show dates are February 7-8, with additional details at www.golfindustryshow.com

GCBAA FOUNDATION

Foundation Update The GCBAA Foundation continues to thrive thanks to the support of the GCBAA members, the enterprise of our fundraising committee, and the dedication of our staff. The Harley raffle was a huge success. We extend our congratulations to Robert Trebilcock whose name was drawn and is undoubtedly enjoying his new ride in Naples, Florida this spring.

Tom Shapland GCBAA FOUNDATION PRESIDENT

A primary goal of the Foundation goal has always been to introduce children to the great game of golf, and instill in those children the joy and sense of accomplishment that inspires them to become lifetime players. For the first time in many years, the number of active Sticks for Kids programs and the resultant number of participants declined in 2016. The decline can be attributed to the closing of some affiliated courses and the consolidation of some of the programs. We are working diligently to reverse this trend in 2017 on two fronts. First, we want to add at least 30 traditional programs this year. We are processing applications now and are looking for more. If you know of any group that would be interested, please direct them to Stephanie Bruss in the GCBAA office. She will help them through the application process.

BOARD MEMBERS MARK ARRIMOUR TOTAL TURF SERVICES JIMMY KIRCHDORFER ISCO INDUSTRIES BILL KUBLY LANDSCAPES UNLIMITED, LLC KUN LI FORWARD GROUP RICK LOHMAN THE TORO COMPANY DENNIS WAGNER HUNTER INDUSTRIES DOUG YORK EWING IRRIGATION

Second and as a new initiative, the Foundation is considering extending the Sticks for Kids reach into public schools. Whether it is through physical education programs or by supporting competitive teams, we feel there is a great opportunity to develop more lifetime players. Currently, boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; golf is an interscholastic sport in less than 40% of public high schools nationwide and opportunities for girls to play competitively are considerably less. We will report on our progress in the next issue of Earth Shaping News. We are also looking forward to a site visit from Greg Norman to one of our programs later this spring with three very positive results almost certain to be achieved. We know his visit will energize everyone at the site and should inspire other Sticks for Kids participants when we post a video of his interaction with the young players. We also look forward to his input on how we might improve the programs with the goal to increase their value to everyone involved. Lastly, we hope that Gregâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s participation in Sticks for Kids will raise our profile, attract more national interest and ultimately lead to an expansion of the overall program. In the meantime, I hope all of you enjoy a prosperous year that still allows enough leisure time to get out and play golf! Tom Shapland

2017 Chuck Cloud Memorial Raffle For the second consecutive year, the GCBAA Foundation team sold all 500 tickets mirroring the equally successful 2016 raffle. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner was Robert Trebilcock of Naples, Florida whom instead of the $10,000 cash prize chose to take home a 2017 Heritage Softail Classic. To continue the tradition of the previous year, an additional 50 tickets for a $100 cash prize were drawn, and the participants listed below elected to donate their winnings back to the Foundation. The GCBAA Foundation is so grateful for your kindness! Rick Benson Jeff Bine Ty Butler Chris Caccavale Eddie Clark Gary Cloud Chris Collins Gary Collin Doug Condon Ann Dye Barry Ferrell

JUSTIN APEL & PAT KARNICK DISCUSSING STICKS FOR KIDS WITH BRENT WADSWORTH AND HIS WIFE JEAN

Charlie Grant Richard Hagy Jeff Hiday Todd Jenkins Casey Jones* Randy Jones* Bryan Juwig Ken Kline Jerry Lemons Rick Lohman Mike McDaniel

Jay Molnar Tracy Murphy Steven Smith Jim Sparks Scott Veazey Mike Webb Tom Works Doug York* * indicates multiple donations to Foundation

The GCBAA Executive Staff would also like to express its gratitude to all the GCBAA members and allies who pre-sold tickets preceding the GIS. A special thanks to Jeff Davis, who threw on a Harley shirt and worked tirelessly to sell tickets to GIS attendees. The GCBAA Foundation could not accomplish this feat without you all!

ROB TREBILCOCK SHOWING OFF HIS NEW TOY IN NAPLES, FL

Inside the Ropes Attracts Thousands of Admirers

As show partners prepared for the 2016 Golf Industry Show in San Diego, CA the show floor layout allowed for a space to be used to demonstrate equipment. GCBAA was part of a number of phone calls and discussions that ultimately ended up becoming “Electric Ave”. The hall was transformed into a circle track to test ride single rider electric golf/surf boards. Thanks to many GCBAA Members the other half of the hall turned into a fairway, bunker, and green. This area showcased electric mowers and other electric equipment available to the industry. While successful in its first year we knew we could do better the next year. Conversations began early on for another show feature planned for the 2017 Golf Industry Show in Orlando. For this year the entire area was modified to allow a few important features. First the area was moved to the center of the show floor. Early on in the process the team identified the logistics of brining in 150 tons of sand and 9000 square feet of sod into a convention center where over 700 exhibits were also being set-up in two days. It made the most sense not only to manage the buildup but also having the feature in the center of the hall would drive traffic. Additionally the show allowed GCBAA members who were supporting the construction a chance to have their booth around the feature. Finally the design would allow

Thank You Volunteers!

Rick Benson, Benson Construction Company, Inc. Eric Boedeker, TurfPros Chip Bryant, LMC Insurance & Risk Management Chris Clarke, Clarke Construction Group Mark Creighton, Ewing Irrigation Jeff Davis, SportZmix Solutions – Waupaca Sand & Solutions Robert Fleetwood – Fleetwood Services LLC Chaz Henderson, Henderson & Company, Inc. Chris Hill, Course Crafters, LLC Matt Horak, TriEst Ag Group, Inc. Thad Layton, Arnold Palmer Design Company Chris Leahy, Golf Agronomics Matt Lohmann, Golf Creations Jim Lohmann, Golf Creations Jason McCoy, Greg Norman Golf Course Design TJ Swaford, TriEst Ag Group, Inc. Bryce Swanson, Rees Jones, Inc. Steve Syrjala, Prestwick Golf Group Eric Wadsworth, Wadsworth Golf Construction Company Scott Wozniak, Caterpillar Inc.

for multiple bunker liners to be featured. Special thanks to Bryce Swanson with Rees Jones Designs for working with the committee on the concept and Certified Builder Member Chris Hill with Course Crafters, LLC for working with the team and committee on creating this area. Friday afternoon before the show trucks began to arrive bringing in a base material that was light weight but also able to compact to be shaped into a golf course feature. The material had to be dumped in small piles in the designated area away from floor ports that access convention center utilities. Saturday morning began the tedious job of spreading 150 tons of material shaping the area and creating enough area to demonstrate equipment, feature 4 bunkers, and a green surface. Additionally we needed to incorporate a 28’ Magnolia Tree; stage construction equipment as static displays, lay down two grass varieties and set a 20’ fiberglass bridge. The end result was an amazing centerpiece and focus of the show. Attendees would walk in opening day and see and small a living golf course in the center of the room. Electric vehicles drove around the area, over the bridge, around the green and through the fairway. Thousands of attendees would pass through; stopping to see first hand the different bunker liners being shown. As with anything we do it would not have been possible without the dozens of volunteers and GCBAA Members who support us and our partners. Please enjoy the pictures and if you have not watched the videos visit gcsaa.tv and see the area come together through time lapse videos and interviews with those involved.

What They Said on Social Media! Follow us on Facebook & Twitter!

Want to see more pictures from the Winter Meeting? Check out the GCBAA event gallery to view and even purchase photos from Orlando https://gcbaa. shootproof.com/gallery/4003573/

GCBAA March Madness Winners Announced Thanks to all (21) members that participated in the 3rd annual March Madness Tourney Challenge this spring. We are pleased to announce our 2017 winners: 1st Place – GCBAA YETI Cooler - Mike Fryatt, Prestwick Golf Group 2nd Place – GCBAA OGIO Backpack - Jon O’Donnell, Heritage Links We hope you’ll join in the Madness next year!

HUMAN RESOURCES

EEOC’s Proposed Guidance Urges Proactive Approach to Workplace Harassment BY JACK L. SHULTZ & KRAMER L. LYONS O’NEILL, HEINRICH, DAMKROGER, BERGMEYER & SHULTZ, P.C., L.L.O.

On January 10, 2017, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (the “EEOC”) issued the Proposed Enforcement Guidance on Unlawful Harassment and will accept public comments on the proposed guidance until March 21, 2017. The proposed enforcement guidance highlights a proactive approach to preventing workplace harassment and strategies for identifying and addressing harassment if and when it occurs. The proposed enforcement guidance will replace the current sexual harassment section of the EEOC Compliance Manual (1990) and various guidance documents. The proposed enforcement guidance provides that workplace harassment will only be covered by Equal Employment Opportunity laws if it is based on an employee’s legally protected personal characteristics. These characteristics include race and color, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, and sex. The new guidance expands upon the nature of sex- based harassment to include sex stereotyping, pregnancy and childbirth, gender identity, such as using a name or pronoun inconsistent with the individual’s gender identity in a persistent or offensive manner, and sexual orientation. The cause of harassment must be because of the protected characteristic, but need not be the only basis. In addition to personal characteristics that may involve a harassment claim, the proposed guidance describes the requirements for bringing a hostile work environment claim. To create a hostile work environment, the harassment must be: • Sufﬁciently severe or pervasive to affect a term condition or privilege of employment; and • Subjectively and objectively hostile There is no set threshold for number of harassing incidents or minimum severity required to automatically establish a hostile work environment. Considerations in determining severity include whether the conduct would make it difficult for a reasonable person in the individual’s position to do their job, the employment position of the harasser, a decline in work performance, or psychological injury. Examples of conduct the EEOC typically finds severe include sexual assault, physical violence or threat of physical violence, the use of the “n-word,” and use of symbols of violence or hatred towards individuals of a protected class, such as swastikas. If the incidents are less severe, but occur more frequently they may create a hostile work environment. A hostile work environment claim may arise from: • Conduct that is not directed at the employee;

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• Conduct occurring in a work-related context outside the employee’s regular workplace; and • Conduct occurring in a non-work-related context, that impacts the workplace, such as harassment by a coworker on social media When determining employer liability, the EEOC and courts have developed a sliding scale and apply one of four standards which are dependent upon the position of the harasser. If the Harasser is: • The employer’s proxy or alter ego, including partners, corporate ofﬁcers, and high-level supervisors, the employer will be strictly liable for the harasser’s actions with no defense to liability; • A supervisor and the hostile work environment includes a tangible employment action against the victim, the employer is vicariously liable for the harasser’s conduct and has no defense to liability; • A supervisor and the hostile work environment has not resulted in a tangible employment action, the employer is vicariously liable for the harasser’s conduct, but may limit liability through a two-part affirmative defense by proving (1) the employer acted reasonably to prevent and promptly correct harassment, and (2) the complaining employee unreasonably failed to use the employer’s complaint procedure or take other steps to avoid or minimize harm from the harassment; or • A non-supervisory employee, coworker, or non-employee, the employer is liable for the harasser’s conduct only if the employer failed to act reasonably to prevent the harassment or to take corrective action in response to the harassment when it was aware or should have been aware of it The proposed enforcement guidance emphasizes the advantages of adopting proactive measures to prevent harassment from occurring. These so called “promising practices” comprise of “five core principles” that while not a defense or safe harbor to harassment claim, are preventative measures designed to stop harassment from occurring. These core principles are: • Committed and engaged leadership; • Consistent and demonstrated accountability; • Strong and comprehensive harassment policies; • Trusted and accessible complaint procedures; and • Regular, interactive training tailored to the audience and organization. It is important to note, that if and when, the proposed guidance becomes effective it will not have the force of statutory or regulatory authority. However, employers are now on notice to how the EEOC is likely to review, investigate and prosecute harassment complaints. The full text of the proposed guidance provides detailed suggestions and examples for establishing effective prevention techniques and can be accessed at www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EEOC-2016-0009. Public comments will be accepted until midnight on March 21, 2017 and may be submitted online at the link above. Written feedback should be sent to: Public Input, EEOC, Executive Officer, 131 M Street, N.E., Washington D.C. 20507. All comments will be posted publically on www.regulations.gov; so, do not include personal information that you do not want made public. Editor’s Note: This article is not intended to provide legal advice to our readers. Rather, this article is intended to alert our readers to new and developing issues and to provide some common sense answers to complex legal questions. Readers are urged to consult their own legal counsel or the authors of this article if the reader wishes to obtain a specific legal opinion regarding how these legal standards may apply to their particular circumstances. The authors of this article, Jack L. Shultz and Kramer L. Lyons can be contacted at (402) 434-3000, or at O’Neill, Heinrich, Damkroger, Bergmeyer & Shultz, P.C., L.L.O., P.O. Box 82028, Lincoln, NE 68501-2028, jshultz@ohdbslaw.com and klyons@ohdbslaw.com.

DEVELOPER’S GUIDE

Relationship Marketing Is a Great Investment BY HENRY DELOZIER, GLOBAL GOLF ADVISORS

Relationship marketing is one of the most cost-effective and productive methods available to entrepreneurs like golf course builders. The premise of relationship marketing is to foster customer loyalty and long-term engagement. The key is to understand that this method of customer involvement is as much science as it is back-slapping.. There are several keys to the science of relationship marketing: • Be consistent and systematic. Effective relationship marketing is deliberate, consistent, and redundant. Plan your work and work your plan. • Build a customer database and work it. Use one of the established and off-the-shelf customer management (CRM) relationship systems – like Salesforce or Constant Contact. Do not bother to create one from scratch. See that everyone in your company faithfully uses this tool which is vital to maximizing profitable results. • Provide each customer what he or she needs from you. Learn the wants and needs of each customer. Record them in your database and be assertive in helping each customer – whether information, tools, or resources. To successfully and consistently improve and sustain great relationship marketing GCBAA members can use the following half-dozen tactics:

supportive and understanding. No relationship is perfect. Prove with your actions that the relationship is more important than the business. The relationship can be bigger than any one deal. As is obvious above, relationship marketing taps into an emotional bond between you and your client. This fact reveals that what you communicate is as important as how you communicate it. That fact creates tremendous opportunity when choosing relationship marketing topics. Old school and traditional customers appreciate messages on holidays tied to America’s history; clients committed to their universities appreciate your understanding of their pride in their alma mater. There are some cost-effective benefits to be harvested: • Less shopping around. Loyal customers are less prone to switching from trusted relationships. • Maximum impact of word-of-mouth promotion. No one brags on you like your friends. Your net-promoter score describes how willing loyal customers are to tell others good things about you. • Better business. Returning customers can be re-started faster and more efficiently. They are often less expensive to serve because of their familiarity with you and yours with them.

1. Focus on exceptional communication. Use multiple media platforms – your website, direct mail, special events, and whitepapers – to inform and educate your customers. Doing so effectively requires that you must know each customer well enough to know what information will be most helpful to them and on what media sources they rely.

• Shared growth. When good customers expand and begin new projects...so do you. Upselling and cross-selling is more efficient than starting from nothing.

2. Acknowledge your client as an individual. This means to communicate with them rather than at them. Therefore, don’t send them form letters, canned communications, or photocopies. Speak with them frequently about normallife topics beyond work and contracts.

• Increased competitive advantage. Companies with trusted relationship marketing are more capable of shutting out competitors

• Increased proﬁtability. For the reasons listed above, your customer procurement and retention costs decrease because of trust and familiarity.

3. Share your knowledge with clients. No one owns knowledge; it is to be shared. Alert your clients to trends and best management practices. The topics in most golf clubs are sand bunkers, new turf types for greens and tees, and tactics for reducing costs.

Some examples you can study and understand for applying to your own business are customer loyalty programs. Most golf course builders travel enough to fully understand the details of airline, lodging, and rental car loyalty programs. Retailers – like Nordstrom and Amazon – have found that customer engagement increases with revenues when customers feel “connected” to the company.

4. Be open to client engagement. Make them part of your team. Seek friendship and a genuine relationship so that the business can follow.

The same client dedication is accessible for golf course builders who cultivate meaningful relationships with their existing and past customers.

5. Exceed expectations. When opportunities to engage with the client are available, be on time, under budget, and accomplished in the results you deliver.

Henry DeLozier is a Principal and Partner in Global Golf Advisors, the international consulting firm that specializes in golf-related businesses while serving private clubs, resorts, homebuilders, and developers.

6. Keep a positive attitude. If you get passed over or disappointed with a negotiation you did not expect, be

Registration Material Coming Soon 14

2017 GCBAA Certified Members Announced GCBAA is pleased to share that the below mentioned companies have been recertified as either Certified Builders, Certified Renovation Builders, or Certified Golf Course Irrigation Contractors for 2017. Each of these companies completed their renewal application last fall. Applications were reviewed and approved during the annual GCBAA Board of Governors meetings held in conjunction with the Golf Industry Show in Orlando. The purpose of the Certification Program is to identify competent and experienced golf course builders and ensure uniform quality standards in the industry. To be eligible for certification, a company must apply and secure the necessary letters of reference and supporting documentation. A company representative will be required to pass the written certification exam, which is offered annually at the Golf Industry Show. Please contact the GCBAA office to learn more about the Certification process. Congratulations to all GCBAA Certified Members. Certified Builders ACC Golf Construction

••• Course Crafters, LLC • Duininck Golf ••• Frontier Golf • Glase Golf, Inc. ••• Golf Creations •

Shapemasters, Inc.

•

Southeastern Golf, Inc.

Aspen Corporation

• Total Turf Golf Services, Inc. ••• United Golf, LLC • Wadsworth Golf Construction ••• XGD Systems, LLC dba TDI USA •

••• Landirr, Inc. •••

Certified Renovation Builders

•••

Benson Construction

Heritage Links

George E. Ley Co.

••• Lepanto Golf Construction Inc. • MacCurrach Golf ••• McDonald & Sons, Inc. • Medalist Golf, Inc. • Mid-America Golf & Landscape, Inc. NMP Golf Construction Corp.

•

•••

••

Hartman Companies, Inc.

Landscapes Unlimited, LLC

Ryangolf Corporation

•

Total Golf Construction Inc.

Golf Development Construction

QGS Development, Inc.

•

Certified Golf Course Irrigation Contractor Formost Construction Co. Mike Roach, Inc.

•••

• Indicates company maintains Certified Renovation Builder status

••

Indicates company maintains Certified Golf Course Irrigation Contractor status

•••

Indicates company maintains Certified Renovation Builder & Certified Golf Course Irrigation Contractor status

New Charter Member - Heritage Links The GCBAA is pleased to welcome Heritage Links as the associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest Charter Member. Heritage Links has earned a reputation in the golf course industry as providing the best services possible and being involved in some of the most well-known projects in the industry. Heritage Links was formed in 1999 by Jon Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell and Tom Schueck, founder of Lexicon, Inc., and has become one of the principal divisions of Lexicon, Inc.

Heritage Links has worked with the USGA in building Chambers Bay, which was the venue for the 2010 U.S. Amateur and 2015 U.S. Open.

Other notable projects include the Golf Club at Dove Mountain which has hosted several WGC- Accenture Match Play Championships, and The Trump Doral Blue Monster Course where Heritage Links worked alongside the watchful and demanding eye of Donald Trump.

Liberty National Golf Club, which has hosted several PGA Tour FedEx Cup playoff events and is the venue for the 2017 Presidents Cup, has also enjoyed the services of Heritage Links. As the general contractor for the original construction, Heritage Links returns each time a modification is completed at the Club. In response to the ever-changing golf course industry, Heritage Links has also expanded into sports field construction. Projects include recent work at the BBVA Compass Bank stadium for the MLS Houston Dynamo and a training center on the island of St. Vincent and Grenadines for Liverpool FC.

With the recent addition of an irrigation division, Heritage Links is able to combine its construction resources with irrigation to approach many projects. This also provides them the ability to work with many golf course superintendents in upgrading their irrigation systems. Heritage Links has been a member of the GCBAA Association since 2000 and has been a Certified Member since 2002.

GCBAA Set to Launch New Website The GCBAA website (www.gcbaa.org) is about to get a makeover! In partnership with Etchasoft, a leading software design firm in Jacksonville, FL, the new site will offer faster navigation, easier accessibility, smarter interface and sharp new features. The revamp includes: • Improved Navigation: Making it easier than ever to find what you’re looking for online • Visual Identity: A user-friendly interface for a user-friendly experience • New Features: Find-A-Member, Interactive Calendar, Multiple Member Type Listings, Online Forms, Social Media Integration • Mobile Friendly The new site is set to launch in May! GCBAA members will receive new login credentials that will give you access to more information than ever before.

National Golf Day Set for April 26 in D.C. National Golf Day celebrates its 10th anniversary through the game’s $68.8 billion economy, $3.9 billion annual charitable impact and many environmental and fitness benefits. On April 26, industry leaders will meet with Members of Congress, the Executive Branch and federal agencies on Capitol Hill to discuss golf’s 15,200plus diverse businesses, two million employees, tax revenue creation and tourism value. New for 2017, golf industry leaders will arrive Tuesday, April 25 to participate in a community service initiative on the National Mall. Last year’s National Golf Day was the most successful to date with over 120 scheduled Congressional meetings in one day. GCBAA was represented by Executive Director Justin Apel, Program & Planning Manager Samantha Huff, and members Dennis Wagner (Hunter Industries), Jon Truttmann (Hunter Industries), Jeff Bine (Hunter Industries) and Doug York (Ewing Irrigation). This year, GCBAA staff, along with member Jon Truttman, will attend National Golf Day. Look for a recap of the 2017 National Golf Day in the next issue!

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CMAA Celebrates 90th Anniversary Milestone Contact: Melissa Low • melissa.low@cmaa.org • (703) 739-9500 Alexandria, VA – January 24, 2017, marks the 90th anniversary for the Club Managers Association of America (CMAA), the largest professional association for club management professionals. CMAA has evolved from its original roster of 358 members to 6,700 members throughout the US and abroad, all while remaining faithful to its objective to promote and advance friendly relations between and among persons connected with the management of clubs and other associations of similar character and to encourage the education and advancement of its members. As detailed in The History of The Club Managers Association of America: The First 50 Years, it was in January 1927 that CMAA began. The first annual CMAA Convention began at 10:40 a.m. on Monday, January 24, 1927, at the Hotel Sherman in Chicago, IL. It was at this inaugural and organizational meeting of the Association that the first officers were elected, and Colonel C.G. Holden became the first President. Following the elections and creation of bylaws, the Convention’s program included topics still familiar today, such as operating like a business, managing labor costs, communications among the club manager, greens keeper and golf professional, service charges and minimum house charges. Approximately 100 club managers attended this first meeting, and 10 percent of the first Convention attendees were female. In February, CMAA will present its 90th World Conference on Club Management and Club Business Expo in Orlando, FL. For more information, visit www.cmaa.org/conf.

About CMAA The Club Managers Association of America (CMAA) is the largest professional association for managers of membership clubs with 6,500 members throughout the US and internationally. Our managers operate more than 2,500 country, golf, athletic, city, faculty, military, town and yacht clubs. The objectives of the association are to promote relationships between club management professionals and other similar professions; to encourage the education and advancement of members; and to provide the resources needed for club managers to operate efficiently and successfully. CMAA is headquartered in Alexandria, VA, with 44 professional chapters and more than 45 student chapters and colonies. Learn more at www.cmaa.org.

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Golf Course Superintendents Give Back with Service Project on National Mall as Part of 2017 National Golf Day National Golf Day celebrates 10th anniversary; adds community service project to congressional meetings promoting golf Contact: Craig Smith, Director, Communications and Media Relations Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 4431 or 785-691-9197 (cell) • csmith@gcsaa.org. Lawrence, Kan. (Feb. 21, 2017) – For more than 100 golf industry advocates, the 10th annual National Golf Day in Washington, D.C., on April 26, will begin a day early when they tackle a community service project to help beautify about 40 acres on the National Mall adjacent to the White House and national monuments. “There is no shortage of work that needs to be done, that’s for sure,” said Michael Stachowicz, turf management specialist for the National Park Service and a retired 25-year member of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). “I am looking forward to this day and having turfgrass professionals come in and give us the maintenance needed to act as a great foundation for the rest of the year.” The five-hour project is expected to include aerifying, seeding, pruning and general beautification to an area that welcomes 30 million visitors a year and includes national landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. “Helping other people goes a long way in our profession,” said Chris Harriman, golf course superintendent at Cattail Creek Country Club in Glenwood, Md., and the immediate past president of the Mid-Atlantic Association of Golf Course Superintendents. “We are interested in working and showing the public what we can do. We are happy to do it.” “This is a great new addition to National Golf Day,” said Dane Gamble, golf course superintendent and owner at Bridge Creek Golf Club in Bozeman, Mont., who will attend and take part in meetings Wednesday with his local and state representatives to share the positive benefits offered by the golf industry. “This is a chance to be part of something bigger than ourselves. The whole event promotes the profession, and it is invaluable.” Superintendents will be organized into small groups with a team leader, and each group will be responsible for a task. GCSAA members interested in registering to attend and help should visit http://wearegolf.org/capitol-hill/national-golf-day/register-to-attend/. “It feels like we are preparing for a tournament,” said Stachowicz, 47, who was the golf course superintendent at Dedham Country and Polo Club in Dedham, Mass., for nine years before joining

the National Park Service staff four years ago. “The National Mall reflects what America is all about and why we are proud of our democracy, and this is an opportunity to bring superintendents together to support that vision.” Each spring since 2007, GCSAA and We Are Golf, a coalition of the game’s leading associations and industry partners, have come together in the nation’s capital to promote the benefits of the game, sharing with congressmen that the sport represents $70 billion in economic impact, creates two million jobs and contributes $4 billion annually in charitable giving. There were 120 congressional meetings at the 2016 event alone, and the NGD16 Twitter campaign eclipsed 52 million impressions and reached 17.7 million accounts. The large golf course superintendent contingent, some of whom are members of GCSAA’s Grassroots Ambassadors program, is eager to connect with legislators again this year. These superintendents will focus on priority topics of business and labor laws impacting the golf industry. But this time, they will also leave something behind for all to enjoy – a spruced up National Mall. About GCSAA and the EIFG The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to nearly 18,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter. The Environmental Institute for Golf is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to foster sustainability through research, awareness, education, programs and scholarships for the benefit of golf course management professionals, golf facilities and the game. Visit EIFG at www.eifg.org. or find us on Facebook or Twitter.

President Trump Begins the Process to Remove WOTUS New Executive Order Reviews Controversial Rule BY BRAD STEELE, ESQ. VICE PRESIDENT OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS & GENERAL COUNSEL

On February 28, President Trump signed an Executive Order (EO) that has been long sought- after by the private club industry. The EO, entitled Restoring the Rule of Law, Federalism, and Economic Growth by Reviewing the “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) Rule, will provide the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with the ability to rescind or revise the WOTUS rule. Under the EO, the president wants to ensure that the nation’s navigable waters are “kept free from pollution, while at the same time promoting economic growth, minimizing regulatory uncertainty, and showing due regard for the roles played by Congress and the States under the Constitution.” This policy is now the guiding factor for EPA as it goes about reviewing the rule. Most importantly, this EO will allow the EPA to rewrite the rule that requires clubs to first secure EPA permits before using chemicals and fertilizers that might run-off into brooks, ponds or streams on the club’s property. In addition, the EO directs the EPA Administrator to use former Justice Antonin Scalia’s definition of the term “navigable waters” from a 2006 Supreme Court case when establishing the new rule. Justice Scalia’s definition is a more limited determination of what should be covered under the Clean Water Act. It also directs the Department of Justice (DOJ) to notify all federal courts where cases are pending involving the WOTUS Rule that this review is taking place. Thus, DOJ will make clear that the federal government will no longer defend this rule in court against claims that the government went too far when it issued the rule. In the end, this EO will let EPA remove a regulation from the books that the National Club Association (NCA) and our allies fought hard to keep from being enforced. It is a strong first step to ensuring club leaders will not be required to spend time, resources and energy worrying about what they may or may not place on their courses. As EPA begins its review and re-crafting of the rule, NCA will be there to provide the private club industry’s perspective to ensure waters stay safe while our industry is not overly burdened by overreaching federal regulations. Overtime Rule should be stopped, DOL decided to file its

notice of appeal. There is very little chance the appeal will make any difference. The appeals process will take many months—concluding well after the inauguration of the new administration. The greater likelihood is that the new administration will remove the appeal soon after Jan. 20, 2017. However, be prepared for some changes to the minimum weekly salary threshold over the next year or so. The Trump Administration will not likely propose an increase to $913/week that was issued by the Obama DOL, but there may be some increase to the current $455/week threshold. Former President George W. Bush increased the minimum weekly salary threshold in 2004, so there is a good chance we will see such a change again. Over the next few months, NCA and our allies will be working on what that number should be and how it should be phased-in. In the end though, this election has provided us the opportunity to make Washington work better for private clubs. All of us at NCA look forward to doing just that as we move forward.

USGA Resource Management BY GEORGE WATERS

Golf facilities everywhere are looking to get more from their resources and deliver a high-quality playing experience for golfers. Unfortunately, the inputs necessary for golf course maintenance are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. “As the cost of maintaining a golf course continues to rise, facilities increasingly need smart tools and data to operate efficiently,” said Rand Jerris, the USGA’s senior managing director of Public Services. “For nearly a century, the USGA has helped improve golf course operations and the golfer experience through educational materials, research, and agronomic and environmental consulting services. This investment in technology is an important next step, which will help facilities realize immediate benefits through simple and effective behavioral changes.” To help golf facilities improve their management of resources and decision-making, the USGA has introduced USGA Resource Management, a new web-based tool that 21

ALLIED ASSOCIATIONS

will help golf course superintendents be more precise, efficient and productive in maintaining their courses. Launched at the 2017 North American Golf Innovation Symposium in Vancouver, British Columbia, USGA Resource Management is a map-based tool that allows facility managers to accurately measure and track resource consumption throughout the golf course and on specific areas like greens, tees, fairways and bunkers. USGA Resource Management will also help facilities manage the dynamic aspects of golf course maintenance such as weather, turf health and traffic patterns. By making adjustments through USGA Resource Management, facilities can adapt management to current conditions and focus resources where they are most needed. USGA Resource Management will not only help facilities improve daily maintenance, it can also be an invaluable tool for long-term planning. Consider a golf course that wants to reduce the number of bunkers in an effort to save money and improve playability. How will they know which bunkers to remove and what the maintenance savings will be? USGA Resource Management will help facilities make these decisions based on course-specific data, ensuring that course improvements and maintenance adjustments yield the best possible results.

Using data to make decisions is an essential part of this system. Each golf course is broken down into areas such as greens, tees, fairways, bunkers and roughs. The cost of maintaining these areas is calculated based on the cost of resources such as labor, fuel and water. Another key feature of the application is the ability to generate visual mapping of golfer traffic, allowing facility managers to focus resources on the areas that are most heavily used, while reducing unnecessary costs on acreage that has little to no impact on golfer experience. By gathering and analyzing this information, golf facilities can identify opportunities to adjust their maintenance practices and improve overall management. In 2017, USGA Resource Management will be an important part of the toolset used by USGA agronomists across the country as they work directly with facilities to improve the impact and efficiency of their maintenance practices through the Course Consulting Service. The USGA is also working with the golf industry to add functionalities and encourage innovations built on this platform. The ongoing development and refinement of USGA Resource Management reflects the USGAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to advance the game by making the benefits of science and technology available to all facilities. These advancements will help elevate the golfer experience and improve resource management at golf facilities around the world.

USGA RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IS A WEB-BASED TOOL THAT HELPS GOLF FACILITIES TO BETTER UNDERSTAND THEIR RESOURCE CONSUMPTION AND USE DATA TO REDUCE COSTS AND IMPROVE THE GOLFER EXPERIENCE.

NEW MEMBERS ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Kipp Schulties Golf Design, Inc.

Creative Path & Curb Inc.

123 Andros Harbour Place Jupiter, FL 33458 Phone: (561) 626-7812 Contact: Kipp Schulties, President Email: kschulties@gmail.com Website: www.ksgolfdesign.com Multi-dimensional golf services firm with a staff of design and planning experts committed to developing championship-quality golf course facilities.

4317 McCullough St. Port Charlotte, FL 33948 Phone: (941) 766-9221 Contact: James Krejci, President Email: creativepathandcurb@comcast.net

Links Bridges Inc.

1173 Campus Delivery Fort Collins, CO 80523-1173 Phone: (970) 491-7070 Contact: Tony Koski, Professor & Extension Turf Specialist Email: tony.koski@colostate.edu

Suite 304 – 555 Legget Drive Kanata, Ontario, Canada K2K 2X3 Phone: (888) 444-0277 Contact: Donald Ferrar, CEO Email: dferrar@linksbridges.com Website: www.linksbridges.com Prefabricated fiberglass bridges up to 50’ and site-assembled bridges up to 150’

NIBCO Inc. 1516 Middlebury Street Elkhart, IN 46516 Phone: (623) 256-3250 Contact: Chris Methvin, Golf Irrigation Sales Manager Email: methvinc@nibco.com Website: www.nibco.com Manufacturer of valves and fittings.

SiteOne Landscape Supply 3957 Heritage View Trail Wake Forest, NC 22587 Phone: (984) 960-6620 Contact: Steven Harris, Manager of Golf National Accounts Email: sharris@siteone.com Website: www.siteone.com Nation’s largest supplier of golf course products including: fertilizers, chemicals, seed, sod, plant material, irrigation and drainage products. Also, full service hand tools, agronomic tools and equipment

Virginia Sand & Stone, LLC 366 Gravel Pit Road Newtown, VA 23126 Phone: (804) 769-2285 Contact: John Dixon, President Email: jdixon@virginiasand.com Sand, soil & stone specialty products, along with custom blending

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS

Tony Koski – Colorado State University

Tripp Davis and Associates PO Box 319 Norman, OK 73070 Phone: (405) 447-5259 Contact: Tripp Davis, President Email: tripp@tdagolf.net Website: www.tdagolf.net Golf Course Architecture firm

GCBAA MEETINGS CALENDAR Pinehurst Regional Meeting May 9, 2017 Pinehurst, NC

2017 GCBAA Summer Meeting August 8-10, 2017 Omni Charlotte Charlotte, NC

Future Golf Industry Show Sites

February 7-8, 2018 Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center San Antonio, TX February 6-7, 2019 San Diego Convention Center San Diego, CA

MOVERS & SHAPERS Thank you Ron Stepanek GCBAA Staff would like to say thank you to Ron Stepanek for his service on the Foundation Board of Directors. Best wishes on your future endeavors.

Justin, Samantha and Stephanie

Concerns or questions about Mid-America Golf and Landscape’s recent changes may be directed to Kirk Grego at the company office. We look forward to the continued success in the golf course industry and would like to thank the GCBAA and all of our industry partners for their continued support with these changes.

Rick Boylan takes on new role at Mid-America Golf and Landscape, Inc. Mid-America Golf and Landscape, Inc. was originally founded with three owners; Rick Boylan, Kirk Grego, and Mike Cordell. Since 1993 Mid-America Golf and Landscape, Inc. has been performing all phases of construction work in the golf course industry. The company has experienced exponential growth over the years, its success comes from the hard work and commitment by the founders to create lasting relationships in the industry. Rick Boylan will be taking on a new role in the company as Chairman of the Board of Directors. While his daily role in the operation of the golf construction side of things may decrease, he is still very active and pivotal to the success of Mid-America Golf. Kirk Grego will assume the role and duties as the President of the company. His position as vice-president provided him with the essentials to maintain the growth and success of the company. Kirk has over 25 years of experience and knowledge in all stages of golf course construction industry. His personal involvement as a laborer, operator, superintendent and project manager has given him the knowledge necessary to make the company known nationally, while linking the name with “quality” and “doing things the right way”. Kirk Grego’s dedication will ensure future growth and success of the company. The company has put several key people in pivotal roles to further ensure its success. Larry Barefield is head of Golf Operations and Senior Project Manager. Larry started in the golf industry in 1991 after graduating from Mississippi State with a Landscape Architecture degree. He has been involved with golf course new construction and restorations all over the country. He is very hands on with clients and architects which allows him to push for the greatest outcome possible on all his projects. Klaus Ahlers is another key representative. Klaus is and continues in the position of Development Manager. He has over 40 years of proven success in irrigation, golf course, and landscape construction. Klaus for decades has been and remains a member of the GCBAA, which has led to a lifetime of relationships. His goal is to continue to develop relationships and to strive to search for more golf courses to revive across the nation on Mid-America Golf and Landscape’s behalf.

Better Billy Bunker and Durabunker Announce Partnership Harrogate, UK- Better Billy Bunker and Durabunker are pleased to announce a partnership agreement which brings together two leaders in the word of bunker construction. The agreement will see Better Billy Bunker serve as a representative for Durabunker in the United States. Similar, Durabunker and its team of professionals become a certified licensed installer of the Better Billy Bunker method. Better Billy Bunker has been installed on over 600 courses worldwide. These courses range from municipal facilities to major championship and Ryder Cup venues. The ease of installation, superior performance, and affordable cost have pushed BBB to the forefront of bunker construction methods. Durabunker, likewise, has established itself a leader in durable and cost effective bunker edge and bunker wall solutions. Durabunker synthetic technology, debuted on the PGA Tour in 2015, received outstanding reviews at the 2016 LPGA Tour Championships and has been commissioned at a cross- section of courses from world top 100 venues to council run municipals. With a global reach, from Australia to America, Singapore to South Korea, Durabunker has recently agreed partnerships to drive the product forward in a number of markets, America being a primary target. Todd Jenkins, Vice President of Better Bunker said “a collaboration with Rhydian and the Durabunker team made perfect sense for us. It will allow us to offer not only the fastest draining durable layer in the industry, but also a long-lasing, sustainable edge solution. The combination

MOVERS & SHAPERS truly offers a fully sealed bunker. We look forward to a successful relationship with Durabunker for years to come.” Durabunker Founder, Rhydian Lewis coadded “The position Better Billy Bunker hold in the market place, the respect they have in the industry, the quality of their product and professionalism of their customer service makes them a perfect partner for us in the USA. The two patented products combine beautifully and though they will not be sold exclusively as a combination, together they offer the complete bunker solution. We are very excited to be working with them.” Both Better Billy Bunker and Durabunker will exhibiting at BTME in Harrogate, UK and at the Golf Industry Show in Orlando, FL in February. For more information, contact: Better Billy Bunker, phone: (615)847-8877, email: info @billybunker.com, web: www. betterbillybunker.com; Durabanker, phone: +4401656336576, email: info@durabunker.com, web: www.durabunker.com

CMAA Elects 2017 Board of Directors Contact: Melissa Low • melissa.low@cmaa.org • (703) 739-9500 Alexandria, VA — February 21, 2017 — The Club Managers Association of America announces its 2017 Officers and Board of Directors. Voting for officers and directors was conducted online and in-person at CMAA’s 90th World Conference on Club Management and Club Business Expo in Orlando, FL. The election results were announced at the event’s Closing Business Session on Saturday, February 11. The 2017 CMAA Officers are: • President Robert C. James, CCM, CCE, CHE, Chief Operating Officer of Westchester Country Club, Rye, NY • Vice President Robert J. “Bobby” Crifasi, CCM, CCE, CPA, General Manager of New Orleans Country Club, New Orleans, LA • Secretary–Treasurer Randall J. Ruder, CCM, CCE, General Manager of Beach Point Club, Mamaroneck, NY • Immediate Past President Jill R. Philmon, CCM, CCE, General Manager/Chief Operating Officer of Ballantyne Country Club, Charlotte, NC Newly elected or re-elected as Directors are: • Mark A. Bado, MCM, CCE, General Manager of Myers Park Country Club, Charlotte, NC (Re-elected to a ThreeYear Term) • Frank Cordeiro, CCM, Chief Operating Officer of Diablo Country Club, Diablo, CA (Elected to a Two-Year Term) • Eric Dietz, CCM, CCE, PGA, incoming General Manager and COO of Mountain Lake, Lake Wales, FL (Elected to a Three-Year Term) • Joe Mendez, CCM, CCE, General Manager/Chief Operating Officer of Radley Run Country Club, West Chester, PA (Elected to a Three-Year Term) Directors continuing to serve on the CMAA Board are: • William E. Langley, CCM, General Manager/Chief Operating Officer of Quail Ridge Country Club, Boynton Beach, FL • Brian R. Kroh, CCM, General Manager of John’s Island Club, Vero Beach, FL • Mitchell S. Platt, MCM, CCE, General Manager of the Cosmos Club, Washington, DC • Michael D. Seabrook, CCM, CCE, General Manager/Chief Operating Officer of Belle Meade Country Club, Nashville, TN • Christina A. Toups, CCM, CCE, General Manager of Ridglea Country Club, Fort Worth, TX The CMAA Board of Directors is comprised of 13 club management professionals who are passionate about the long-term vision of CMAA, and work respectfully with staff, committees, members, partners and the greater industry to advance the profession of club management.

MOVERS & SHAPERS

PGA Junior League Golf Grows to Record-Number 36,000 Participants in 2016 PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. (Jan. 25, 2017) – PGA Junior League Golf featured a record-setting 36,000 participants across 2,900 teams nationwide last year, led by the more than 2,000 PGA and LPGA Professionals who served as Captains. The growth represents a 300 percent increase from the 9,000 kids who participated on 740 teams nationwide just three years prior. “PGA Junior League Golf continues to be one of the most dynamic, youth-focused initiatives led by the PGA of America,” said PGA President Paul Levy. “Thanks to the leadership of PGA and LGPA Professionals nationwide, we expect this exponential growth to continue in 2017.” The foundational youth growth-of-the-game program of the PGA of America, PGA Junior League Golf offers boys and girls—ages 13 and under of all abilities—a fun, social and inclusive opportunity to learn and play golf in a recreational team setting with their friends, complete with numbered jerseys. PGA and LPGA Professionals serve exclusively as Captains, providing kids with expert coaching and instruction. With parents and family members encouraged to assist as coaches and volunteers, PGA Junior League Golf involves the entire family and introduces them to an all-ages sport they can play and enjoy together for a lifetime. “It’s tremendous to see PGA and LPGA Professionals utilize PGA Junior League Golf in their work leading the charge to grow golf among our youth,” said Levy. “The developmental nature of the program is very welcoming. Captains are not only teaching the game but also the important character skills and values inherent in golf that kids will carry through life.” PGA Junior League Golf utilizes a two-person scramble format for competition, which reinforces the team concept and creates a nurturing environment for learning the game. Teams play four, nine-hole matches in a game; Captains can substitute players every three holes, allowing everyone on the team a chance to participate. Teams typically play between four-to-six games in the regular season, which runs from April 1- July 31. Following the regular season, 10-player all-star teams are formed from a combination of players in each league. Teams move through a series of sub-regional competitions to advance to one of eight regional competitions held across the country. Eight regional champions advance to the PGA Junior League Golf Championship, to be held for the second year at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona, Nov. 16-19. Last year, PGA of America, Grayhawk Golf Club and National Car Rental partnered with Golf Channel to air a two-hour, primetime special highlighting the 2016 PGA Junior League Golf National Championship presented by National Car Rental. The program also has the support of some of golf’s biggest names, including Rory McIlroy, Michelle Wie, Rickie Fowler and Lexi Thompson, who serve as Official Ambassadors for PGA Junior League Golf. PGA Junior League Golf is the flagship internal program for the youth pillar of PGA REACH, the charitable foundation of the PGA of America. PGA REACH helps ensure that youth in need have access to PGA Junior League Golf by removing cost-associated barriers. “PGA Junior League Golf is for everyone, and we are committed to providing all kids the opportunity to learn and play,” said Ryan Cannon, Senior Director of PGA REACH. Registration for the 2017 season opens Feb. 1. Consumers can visit PGAJLG.com to learn more, search for programs by ZIP code and register online. Contacts: Michael Abramowitz, PGA of America, mabramowitz@pgahq.com, 561-389-4647 Hayley Wilson, Alday Communications, hayley@aldaycommunications.com, 865-256-4295

MOVERS & SHAPERS Jim Furyk Named United States Captain for 2018 Ryder Cup Ryder Cup veteran will lead U.S. in pursuit of victory in France next year; Davis Love III to serve as U.S. Vice Captain PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA (January 11, 2017) – PGA of America President Paul Levy today announced that Jim Furyk will serve as the United States Ryder Cup Team Captain for the 42nd Ryder Cup, which will be played September 28-30, 2018 at Le Golf National in Guyancourt, France. Furyk is the 28th U.S. Captain since the Ryder Cup began in 1927. “For more than two decades, Jim Furyk has stood proud and tall on the American golf stage and we are thrilled to have him as our Ryder Cup Captain,” said Levy, who joined Furyk for a news conference at PGA of America Headquarters. “His accomplishments as a player are well known, but his inherent competitive spirit and leadership traits are what made his candidacy so attractive. Jim offers the total package and is well suited for the task at hand.” The 46-year-old Furyk played in nine consecutive Ryder Cups (1997, ’99, 2002, ‘04, ‘06, ‘08, ‘10, ‘12, ‘14), which is the second-most appearances in U.S. Ryder Cup history. Only Phil Mickelson, with 11, played in more among Americans. A West Chester, Pennsylvania native, Furyk was a member of winning U.S. Ryder Cup efforts in 1999, 2008 and ‘16, the latter as a Vice Captain. A 17-time winner on the PGA Tour, Furyk also played in seven Presidents Cups, an event at which he served as a Captain’s Assistant in 2015. “I would like to thank Davis (Love III) and the PGA of America Ryder Cup Committee for their faith in me and my selection as United States Ryder Cup Captain,” said Furyk, the 2003 U.S. Open Champion. “I’ve said many times that the Ryder Cup is part of my DNA, so this opportunity was a privilege and honor to accept. This is a special moment for my family.” Furyk’s first act as Ryder Cup Captain was to name Love as the first of his Vice Captains. Love served two U.S. captaincies (2012, ’16) and played in six Ryder Cups. Last fall, the United States reclaimed the Ryder Cup for the first time since 2008 by defeating Europe, 17 to 11, at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota. “I am anxious to get started and recapture the momentum we enjoyed at Hazeltine, both in the team room and on the golf course,” Furyk said. “It’s been a long time since we’ve won in Europe and I am looking forward to the challenge.” Thomas Bjorn, 45, of Denmark was named 2018 European Ryder Cup Captain last month. For more information about the Ryder Cup, visit RyderCup.com. For more information about the PGA of America, follow @PGAofAmerica on Twitter and find us on Facebook. Contacts: Julius Mason, PGA of America, 561-624-8444, jmason@pgahq.com John Dever, PGA of America, 561-360-9138, jdever@pgahq.com

GOLF 20/20 Announces the Game’s 2016 Charitable Impact Record Number of Golf Facilities Hosted Event Last Year (ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla.) – GOLF 20/20 – a collaboration of leading organizations representing all segments of the U.S. golf industry – today announces details about the game’s $3.9 billion annual charitable impact with more golf facilities than ever (12,700) hosting an event in 2016. According to a study conducted by the National Golf Foundation (NGF), golf as a fundraising vehicle includes an estimated: • 12,700 golf facilities (84 percent of U.S. total, 8 percent increase from 2011) • 143,000 events • 12 million participants • $26,400 average per function • 1 percent of all U.S. charitable giving (totaled $373 billion in 2015) “Charity is at the heart of the U.S. golf industry,” says Steve Mona, CEO of the World Golf Foundation, administrator of GOLF 20/20. “Golf is a key driver for charitable giving and takes pride in hosting charitable events to improve millions of lives through causes that are mostly unrelated to golf.” Most common charitable golf event beneficiaries include health, youth, education and cultural groups nationally, regionally and locally. More than 85 percent of organizations conducting golf events find them important because, in addition to raising significant funds, they provide exposure and networking opportunities among supporters. Additionally, golf’s charitable impact is greater than Major League Baseball, National Football League, National Basketball League and National Hockey League combined. The findings are based on qualitative calls and data collection from a coast-to-coast sampling of public and private golf facilities, and non-profit organizations producing golf events, conducted on behalf of GOLF 20/20 by the NGF. For more information: www.golf2020.com. About GOLF 20/20 GOLF 20/20 is a unique collaboration of all segments of the golf industry, from associations and manufacturers to golf course owners/operators and the media. It was launched in 2000 and is designed to unite and activate the industry around key strategic initiatives that increase participation and retention, inspire involvement and interest in the game, and promote sustainable best practices for golf facilities. Media Contact: Steve Perry, Buffalo Agency, 703.967.6571, sperry@buffalo.agency

Partner Incentive Programs The 2016 Caterpillar, Inc and Cat dealer incentive program proved to be very beneficial to not only our GCBAA members but to the Foundation and the game of golf. Their program presented the GCBAA Foundation with a check for over $10,000. Which in turn, prompted other members to create their own incentive program to help support the organization and Foundation.

Sunbelt Rentals and Profile Products have decided to start their own incentive program to show their commitment to support their fellow GCBAA members and the Foundation. Sunbelt Rentals presented the GCBAA Foundation with a $5,000 check to help sponsor the new 2017 Sticks for Kids programs. As for Profile Products, they are donating a portion of the earnings for “every ball, roll or ton” purchased by a GCBAA member to the Foundation. For more information on the Profile Products incentive, go to https://issuu.com/gcbaa/docs/profile_products_partnership.

How to Participate in the Caterpillar and Sunbelt Rental incentive Participation in this rebate program couldn’t be simpler. Simply rent machines from a participating Cat Dealer or Sunbelt Rentals and all will be taken care of. The GCBAA will identify the names of eligible members, subsidiaries or divisions for participation. These names will be loaded into the Caterpillar or Sunbelt Rentals tracking system and all eligible rentals will be combined and the rebate paid on the aggregate number. There is no additional effort on your part and this program does not increase your rental fees. Eligible machine rentals will be from a Cat Machine Dealer, Cat Dealer Rental or Sunbelt Rentals store only and not include other dealer divisions such as Si Tech, Cat Power, or Cat Marine. Additionally, the rebate will be based on the rental amount only and won’t include transportation, fees or taxes. Caterpillar, Sunbelt ny have a p m o Rentals and the Participating Dealers will automatically track c r u ? Does yo rental volume. Contact Chris Caccavale at (570) 647-9157 or s to share w e n g n i t i exc David Zipps at (713) 299-7609 for Caterpillar or Kevin Grieder he word! t d a e r p s u at (410) 267-0340 for Sunbelt Rentals if you have questions e’ll help yo : stephanie_bruss @gcbaa.org W regarding the program. ss hanie Bru 44 tep Contact S

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GCBAA Presents at the 2017 PGA Merchandise Show GCBAA Members John Holmes, President Atlas Turf International and Lewis Sharp, Agronomist & Golf Course Consultant, Tee-2Green provided attendees to the January 25 PGA Show Demo Day at Orange County National Golf Center “Things to Consider Before Regrassing Your Course”. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the challenges of changing out turf varieties at their golf facility. This course will cover both warm and cool season turf varieties and focus on playability, maintenance cost associated with changing to new turf varieties, construction techniques and the role of PGA Professionals in helping make the right decision for their facility on turfgrass varieties. The GCBAA also hosted a booth at Demo Day, the world’s largest outdoor demo area for golf course equipment.

GCBAA Thanks Greg Norman for his Support During the PGA Merchandise Show GCBAA Executive Director Justin Apel along with Programming and Planning Manager Samantha Huff was honored to sit down with GCBAA veteran members Greg Norman and Jason McCoy to discuss the organization, golf industry, and our Sticks for Kids Program. During a recent interview with Golf Course Industry and Greg Norman he discussed the GCBAA and his company’s membership over the past 20 years along with his support of the organizations Sticks for Kids Program as an innovative way to bring youth into the game who would not otherwise have the opportunity. We appreciate the support of his team at Greg Norman Golf Course Design and their membership as well as the kind comments from a legend of the game. We look forward to working with Greg Norman!

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