ASSOCIATION UPDATE
Who are these
I
f you are a fan of Seinfeld, the mid 90’s sit com that I have come to realize is not as familiar with everyone who may be a bit younger than I am, it is hard to read that opening line without hearing his voice. As much as I would like to use this space to explain why anyone not familiar with the show should drop this magazine and get to binge watching I want to talk about who these people actually are that run the MiGCSA. Often when that is considered people may think that I am the one running the chapter, and on a day to day basis that is true, keep all the plates spinning is how I often refer to that. But what I want to talk about here is who are the actual people, and what their motivation is. Unlike many companies or corporations, the MiGCSA is not some separate business trying to make money from our customers, focused on the bottom line above all else. Please do not get me wrong, the MiGCSA does need to be profitable, but that is a good thing for all of our members. Too often, the MiGCSA, and GCSAA for that matter, are looked at the same way you look at your cable company or some company you just pay the bills to. But, these groups are run by you! By you I mean Golf Course Superintendents, your peers. The board consists of 12 members who come from all corners of our state who have volunteered their time and efforts to represent all of our members. Every decision and direction is made by these individuals. All of the past decisions from 2008 until this morning have been made by your fellow members. All of these decisions are made with one thing in mind, our mission:
people? This is why the MiGCSA exists. This is the guiding light that directs and helps form every decision big or small. This is why these people have given up their very valuable time to serve their industry, our industry. They are there to represent you all and to dig deep into the issues at hand and try to fulfill our mission. I know people have varied opinions on the MiGCSA and even the GCSAA and some are not positive. What are they doing for me? Is it worth the membership dues every year? Thankfully, I believe, this is a very small percentage but if you have any doubt, I want you to consider this. If you look past the surface at the current board, and look at the Past Presidents, and Board Members of this chapter do you think they would dedicate their time and efforts into something they did not think was absolutely critical for our profession? Do you think they would travel from all corners of Michigan to Board Meetings? Do you think they would agree to be harassed by me via email or phone sometimes on a daily basis to help guide this ship if it was not worth it to you as a member? If you do still think so, I would encourage you to call up your local Board Member and talk to them about why they are committed to this association. I bet you will walk away with a better understanding of who these people are, and why they do what they do.
Adam Ikamas, CGCS MiGCSA Executive Director
The MiGCSA is dedicated to providing value to our members through programs and services that enhance and promote our profession. 46
Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association
| www.migcsa.org