PROGRAM VOLUME 46
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ISSUE 1
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SPRING ISSUE
2018 SCPGA GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
Shawn Cox 1
PROGRAM MAGAZINE - SPRING ISSUE
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PGA
WHO NEEDS AN MSP? Don’t just get good IT, GET GREAT IT
GREAT MANAGED SERVICE PROVIDERS (MSP) WILL MAKE YOUR BUSINESS GROW FASTER & BE MORE PROFITABLE
WHAT SERVICES FROM AN MSP DO YOU NEED? • HELP DESK • DATA & CLOUD • ON-SITE SUPPORT • PROJECTS & PLANNING We offer you the 3 C’s of a great partnership with an MSP CHARACTER, COMPETENCY & CONSISTENCY
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OUR FOOTPRINT LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
When mapping out this issue of the PROgram, our footprint was a topic of discussion. As the third largest Section of the PGA of America, our footprint covers a large part of the map, from San Luis Obispo to the tip of Baja California and from the Pacific Ocean to Nevada and Arizona borders. It’s no wonder we have over 1,600 Members and Associates. In this everlasting season of growth, we see the footprint of the PGA of America growing across the map as well. For the next two years, we will watch as Frisco, Texas becomes the hub of golf and sports in the country. This fresh start is something to take note of and learn from. It’s time to take a moment and ask youself “what’s next for me?” Taking risks can be scary. We sometimes have no choice but to listen to that little voice in our heads, whatever it may be saying to us. In the end, it’s the map that will bring you back home. It takes the journey to recognize that we may already have what it took all along to do great things. The next step in your journey may be unknown, but we want you to know that the SCPGA is here to be your “home”. There is power in our community of Members, Associates, mentors, executives, Section staff, colleagues, and friends who support your growth. No matter how where you go, it is the map that brings us together. Embrace the journey, follow the map, go off the beaten path, find something new and discover a part of you that you never knew existed. Don’t just make a goal with only a start and finish — map out your journey with only one thing in mind: “go,” and know that the SCPGA is behind you every step of the way.
Contents
22.
WHAT’S IN MY BAG
5.
27.
GREENSKEEPING
Features:
7. 8. 10.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT Why did you become a PGA Professional?
CHANGING LIVES How the Colorado Section changed one veterans life forever
GROWING THE GAME Jorge Badel, with LA County Department of Parks and Recreation
MEMBER UPDATES New Members, in memoriam, etc.
11. 14. 18. 21.
ORGANIZATION MAKE VETS “WHOLE” AGAIN Vets Whole in One aims to transition veterans back to normal life through golf A BETTER WAY TO TELL GOLF’S STORY No one better to tell it than the PGA Professional GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR Shawn Cox of The Grand Golf Club BREAKING THE INVISIBLE WALL AROUND GOLF By Donna Hoffman, founder of “Women on Course”
31. 33. 34.
A look at the tools behind Omega Players of the Year, Michael Block and Dr. Alison Curdt
A science and an art
THE TEETER-TOTTER OF BALANCE From SCPGA Vice President Robin Shelton CHAPTER CORNER What you need to know from the Southern California PGA Chapters THE LITTLE THINGS Message from the Executive Director/ CEO, Tom Addis III
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PROGRAM THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PGA VOLUME 46, ISSUE 1 | SPRING ISSUE 2019 THE PROGRAM IS PRODUCED BY THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PGA PUBLISHER & EDITOR: DEMI DAILEY & BRYCE SEIVER
SCPGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS
PRESIDENT | TONY LETENDRE, PGA DOVE CANYON GOLF CLUB VICE PRESIDENT | ROBIN SHELTON, PGA SEACLIFF COUNTRY CLUB SECRETARY | ERIC LOHMAN, PGA MONARCH BEACH GOLF LINKS HONORARY PRESIDENT | TODD KEEFER, PGA THE WILSHIRE COUNTRY CLUB
DIRECTORS
RANDY CHANG, PGA JOURNEY AT PECHANGA & TALEGA GOLF CLUB DR. ALISON CURDT, PGA WOOD RANCH GOLF CLUB JOE GROHMAN, PGA EL DORADO PARK GOLF COURSE SCOTT HEYN, PGA THE FARMS GOLF CLUB ROB OOSTERHUIS, PGA SHERWOOD COUNTRY CLUB MIKE VAN DER GOES, PGA SATICOY COUNTRY CLUB
INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
KIM FALCONE, PGA LA JOLLA COUNTRY CLUB ED HOLMES SCGA PAST PRESIDENT
CHAPTER REPRESENTATIVES
DESERT | KENDALL PALU, PGA CATHEDRAL CANYON GOLF CLUB
INLAND EMPIRE | STEVE ADAMIAK, PGA THE LEGENDS GOLF CLUB METROPOLITAN | VIC PLACERES, PGA OLD RANCH COUNTRY CLUB NORTHERN | MIKE VALDEZ, PGA SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTRY CLUB SAN DIEGO | DAVID MOWERY, PGA GOLFTEC - ENCINITAS RANCH
PGA OF AMERICA EXECUTIVES DISTRICT 11 DIRECTOR
BILL TROYANOSKI, PGA NORTHERN SECTION
OFFICERS & CEO PRESIDENT | SUZY WHALEY, PGA SUZY WHALEY GOLF CROMWELL, CT
SCPGA SECTION STAFF
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER | TOM ADDIS III, PGA TADDIS@PGAHQ.COM CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER | JEFF JOHNSON, PGA | JJOHNSON@PGAHQ.COM CHIEF MEMBERSHIP OFFICER | NIKKI GATCH, PGA | NGATCH@PGAHQ.COM
MEMBERSHIP
MEMBERSHIP MANAGER | SHARON CURFMAN SCURFMAN@PGAHQ.COM
COMMUNICATIONS
COMMUNICATIONS ADMINISTRATOR | BRYCE SEIVER BSEIVER@PGAHQ.COM COMMUNICATIONS ADMINISTRATOR | DEMI DAILEY DDAILEY@PGAHQ.COM
FOUNDATION
FOUNDATION DIRECTOR | MATT GILSON | MGILSON@PGAHQ.COM PLAYER DEVELOPMENT & GOLF IN SCHOOLS DIRECTOR | ANTHONY LEONE ALEONE@PGAHQ.COM PLAYER DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATOR | MAX BERMAN MBERMAN@PGAHQ.COM
TOURNAMENTS
DIRECTOR OF COMPETITIONS | MAX DESPAIN MDESPAIN@PGAHQ.COM TOURNAMENT OPERATIONS MANAGER | STEPHEN MONDAY SMONDAY@PGAHQ.COM
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & PARTNER RELATIONS MANAGER | DAVE KUHN DKUHN@PGAHQ.COM
MEETINGS & EVENTS
MEETINGS & EVENTS MANAGER | ARIANA GOMEZ AGOMEZ@PGAHQ.COM
JUNIOR GOLF
JUNIOR GOLF DIRECTOR | KEVIN SMITH KSMITH@PGAHQ.COM SENIOR MANAGER, JUNIOR GOLF | TRAVIS CUTLER TCUTLER@PGAHQ.COM JUNIOR GOLF MANAGER | EDDIE RODARTE, PGA ERODARTE@PGAHQ.COM JUNIOR GOLF MANAGER | BRENT JOHNSTON BJOHNSTON@PGAHQ.COM JUNIOR GOLF MANAGER | AMBERLYNN DORSEY ADORSEY@PGAHQ.COM JUNIOR GOLF ASSISTANT | TYLER MILLER TAMILLER@PGAHQ.COM
FINANCE & HR
FINANCE MANAGER | KRISTY WATTIMENA KWATTIMENA@PGAHQ.COM
VICE PRESIDENT | JIM RICHERSON, PGA TROON SCOTTSDALE, AZ
HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER | TAYLOR VERMILLION TVERMILLION@PGAHQ.COM
SECRETARY | JOHN LINDERT, PGA LANSING, MI
REGIONAL LEAGUE MANAGER - PGA JUNIOR LEAGUE JUNKO SUZUKI, PGA | JSUZUKI@PGAHQ.COM
CEO | SETH WAUGH PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL
PGA OF AMERICA STAFF CAREER CONSULTANT KEN FERRELL, PGA | 951.894.5024 | KFERRELL@PGAHQ.COM
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PGA 3333 CONCOURS | BUILDING 2, SUITE 2100 ONTARIO, CA 91764 PHONE 951.845.4653 | FAX 951.769.6733 SCPGA.COM | SCPGAJRTOUR.COM
THE PROGRAM IS DISTRIBUTED FREE TO MEMBERS AND AFFILIATES OF THE SCPGA THREE TIMES A YEAR. THE ARTICLES AND OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED WITHIN THIS PUBLICATION ARE INFORMATIONAL AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE VIEWS OR OPINIONS OF THE SCPGA. THE SCPGA ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR CLAIMS MADE FOR OR BY ANY PRODUCT IN THIS PUBLICATION WHETHER REPORTED OR ADVERTISED. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE SCPGA IS PROHIBITED.
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PROGRAM MAGAZINE - SPRING ISSUE
PRESIDENT’S REPORT TONY LETENDRE, PGA
WHY DID YOU BECOME A PGA PROFESSIONAL? Happy New Year, and so far, it’s been a wet one! We hope your facilities have handled the rain well and to those affected by the fires, we hope you and your families are all safe from any flooding. I personally enjoy the wet weather, but I know it can wreak havoc on our businesses. Looking on the bright side however, golf courses tend to really green up after the rain! It is exciting to share this Spring issue of the PROgram with you. The new year brings new opportunities for our game. This issue has a lot to highlight from featuring our 2018 award winners to honoring our amazing junior golfers. We will look at market trends as well as some lifestyle features. Our hope is that no matter how busy life gets, you will always find time to read your Section’s magazine cover-to-cover because you will find it relevant. Keep reading to see what we mean… Before we can get too far into 2019, we need to say congratulations again to our Golf Professional of the Year, Shawn Cox (See pg. 18 for more on Cox). Thank you Shawn for all you continue to do for our Section. Every year I am impressed by the work people are doing and I anticipate 2019 will be no different. Congratulations to all of our award winners on the amazing year they had! Another huge thank you goes to Honorary President Todd Keefer and those before him for paving the way for our current Board and Section Staff. We are excited that the vision of always striving to be better runs rampant throughout everything we do. We hope with the addition of Nikki Gatch to the already amazing team will help bring together all five of our chapters as well as help you, the PGA Professional, by promoting your business and your brand. Please reach out to her if she can
IN THIS PHOTO HONORARY PRESIDENT TODD KEEFER AND
help you. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
PRESIDENT TONY LETENDRE
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aboard Nikki! Additionally, a huge thank you to all the committee members who are dedicated to the Section. These individuals are a sounding board for the team at the Section office and provide support whenever needed. Please understand, your team at headquarters drives the bus we call the SCPGA, but they do it with the support of the Board and the committees. Thank you all for coming on this ride for the next two years and making our Section shine! I recently attended the 2018 Junior Awards Banquet at Mountain Meadows Golf Course and talk about amazing! Just when I couldn’t feel any less confident in my game, these juniors are shooting scores I’ve only dreamed about…and regularly! COOPER, TONY AND MIGNONNÉ AT THE JUNIOR GOLF BANQUET OF CHAMPIONS
Every year we honor these amazing young talents for their accomplishments and they just keep getting better. From SCPGA Junior golfers who have made the various tours, high school students who have committed to top colleges and universities and PGA Jr. Leaguers shooting a near perfect (-8) round in the
“If we can make the lives of PGA Members better, it’s a win”
National Finals, these juniors are good! Congratulations to all the award winners and thank you for participating in the evening. You can read more about them in the junior side of this issue (pg. 12). I am happy to see our Members doing big things on the PGA TOUR. Early this year we saw Kenny Pigman at the Farmers Insurance Open and Michael Block at the Desert Classic and Genesis Open. Tremendous job to both Pigman and Block for representing the SCPGA proudly! I have been asked what I want to achieve as the Section President and my response is the same every time, it’s not my legacy, but if we can make the lives of PGA Members better, it’s a win. Not just financially, but overall satisfaction and success in their jobs. One thing I am personally striving for however, is that you remember why you became a PGA Professional and for you to get fired up about the golf business once again. I got into this business because I love everything about it. I look out my office window every day and see a golf course. I see members and staff interacting
PIGMAN FROM THE FAIRWAY AT THE FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN
and I see people accomplish firsts in their own golfing careers. I like giving back what so many gave to me. I feel fortunate to have created once in a lifetime experiences and sharing the stories related to them (did you know I’ve played L.A. North twice and my total score on the 15th hole is 3?). I also enjoy the feeling you get when your student achieves their goals. So I ask you, why did you become a PGA Golf Professional? Sharing your experiences with your fellow Professionals reminds us why this is the greatest business in the world. Sure, it has its headaches, but what doesn’t? If you really think back to the time when golf really got you excited, I believe you’ll have
BLOCK HITTING ONE OUT OF THE BUNKER AT THE GENESIS OPEN
a little more positive look at the game and pass on a little of your passion. We want to encourage you to use the hashtag, #MoreThanAMember when posting your experience on social media. This hashtag will give us a window into what you, our members, are doing on the course, at an event, in the office or any other ways you are having fun.
TONY LETENDRE, PGA
Section website. I hope 2019 is off to a great start for you and I look forward to
Assistant General Manager / Dove Canyon Golf Club
seeing you around the Section!
PGAPRO1198@GMAIL.COM
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Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at Dove or personally through the
PRESIDENT, Southern California PGA
PROGRAM MAGAZINE - SPRING ISSUE
CHANGING LIVES: ONE HOUSE AT A TIME How the Colorado Section Changed One Veteran’s Life Forever By Demi Dailey - SCPGA, Communications Administrator Imagine receiving the keys to a mortgage free home of your dreams. Sounds like a salesman’s pitch. But this impossible dream became a reality for retired Army Specialist David Beck.
“My first reaction when we were offered the home was, I couldn’t find words to explain it. I didn’t believe it. Everything was surreal. My life was changing right before my eyes,” Beck said.
David Beck was born in Olongapo, Philippines on a Naval Base and grew up in San Diego. Not long after graduating from high school, Beck went into the Army where he was a 12B/21B Combat Engineer from 20082013. He was deployed in Afghanistan on operation “Enduring Freedom,” where he was tasked with route clearance from 2009-2010. On mission, Beck was injured, suffering hits from IED’s he was tasked to clear. David couldn’t even keep count of the number of times he was in the center of these explosions where his vehicle was hit, or it just missed the vehicle. Beck then retired and received the Purple Heart for being wounded during combat operations.
David, his wife and five children were living in a rented, four-bedroom home in Victorville prior to this donation. Now his family can live comfortably in their new home in Helendale.
One day, David signed up with the Military Warriors Support Foundation (a partner of the Colorado Section of the PGA), not knowing what surprise was going to come his way. On Thursday, November 8, 2018, David and his wife, Heidy Guzman-Beck attended the Colorado Section’s Annual Meeting. Prior to this day, David had no connection to the Colorado Section or the PGA of America. As David and his wife walked onto the stage, a standing ovation broke out. Ty Thompson, Honorary President of the Colorado PGA then presented the keys to a mortgage-free home to David and his family. It’s no surprise that emotions filled the room when David and his wife were given this precious gift.
“It’s a beautiful community here in the high-desert. It has lakes to fish, golf courses, club house for tennis, community pool and a place to off-road” Beck said. This opportunity has given Beck the chance to return to school to get a higher education. He attends Barstow Community College and is majoring in engineering, but says he also has interests in getting his real estate license. Through this, he hopes to give back what was given to him by donating houses to those in need. David says he’s able to branch out and feel more comfortable in his community as time passes. He talks to neighbors and his kids take part in Jujitsu. “My family and I are very thankful for what the Colorado Section has done. You have changed many generations of my family and changed the way I think of life” Beck said. David said he has never played golf. But after this experience, he’s considering giving it a try.
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BY JORGE BADEL LA COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PARKS & RECREATION
Growing the Game
We in the golf business attend a lot of conferences in the hope that we’ll learn something that might help us improve. I have been a PGA Golf Professional for the last 12 years but needless to say I still have lots to learn.
I attended a National Golf Foundation (NGF) seminar about “Millennials” in Carlsbad a few years ago that did more than teach me something I didn’t know; it opened my eyes to a whole new way of thinking. The session opened up with the following question: “How many of you were in the golf business 25 years ago?” Almost everyone shot up their hand. The speaker immediately replied something along the lines of: So, let me get this straight; you folks drove the bus into the ditch and have now appointed yourselves to be in charge of digging it out? Like most others who raised their hand, I was mildly insulted. That is, until the speaker made clear the reason for his provocative opening question. People and organizations are never able to progress until they come to terms with their biases and prejudices and begin to place themselves in the shoes of others—in this case non-golfers, and understand that the way we think may not be aligned with the way they (nongolfers) think. The speaker said that to have the courage to think outside of our bias was contrary to the way we humans are wired — it was among the hardest things to do. I put my mild insult aside and took his words to heart. Ever since then, I have tried to see the golf world and life through the lens of those who walk in the shoes of other professions, backgrounds, and communities. That’s why I was so moved by the comments from Latina Golfers Association Founder and President Azucena Maldonado
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PROGRAM MAGAZINE - SPRING ISSUE
in the Fall Issue of The PROgram. One comment in particular captured my attention: “I think it’s difficult for people in the golf industry, many of whom have been raised around golf, to conceive of the barriers that keep non-golfers from stepping foot on a golf course.” I love golf for the same reasons that all of you reading these words love it. Our game does an outstanding job of serving the needs and wants of those already committed to the game. We have been doing an exemplary job in developing and offering programs to develop the next generation of golfers. But how are we doing with attracting non-golfers? Low cost four - or six-pack group lessons are great, however, does that alone offer sufficient enticement for someone to visit a golf course grounds to enroll in such a series? My community, like yours, offers many low- to no-cost activities through City Hall, but I fail to sign-up to give one of these activities a try. Why? Clearly, what we think we know about how to attract non-golfers doesn’t align with what they think, and those barriers are steep and wide. I can think of no better example than the municipal golf course I grew up on and its frontof-the-house unwelcome mat – a huge manicured lawn with neatly manicured flowers flanked by parking lots and tennis courts and surrounded by tall fences and tall trees to hide from public view a recreational facility that at any given time, may have 150-200 golfers on the course or using practice facilities. This “message” is further reinforced by street signage carrying the words, “Country Club,” in letters large enough to be read from a long distance and the words, “Open to the Public,” in words barely legible from a few yards away. The message? This
is a restricted area requiring that you need be “one of us” to gain access, a message no doubt reinforced by staff busy checking in golfers were one of “them” to wander into the golf shop on a busy weekend. Many were alarmed in 2017 when the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors made clear that they wanted to see their massive 20-course system become more engaged in the communities where they were located – a little more “open to the public” and a little less “country club.” I was not one of them. The Board liked golf but encouraged us to explore if we were maximizing utilization of the entire facility. I thought back to the municipal love of my youth and the wise words of that Carlsbad Millennial conference, and immediately understood that by hosting non-golf community events, LA County’s municipal golf courses could put a dent in breaking down the physical and psychological barriers of golf facilities versus pursuing our clouded visions of the way we think things are. And once we get non-golfers into the facility, experiencing both golf and nongolf activities, the barriers Azucena Maldonado describes just might start to melt away and give golf a chance to expand its base beyond the already engaged. Movie nights, Easter-Egg Hunts, Pancake Breakfasts and Pizza with Santa, all with a SNAG golf component are some of the tools we’ve implemented to engage the greater community. These icebreaker events draw people inside these harmless facilities that seems so daunting and exclusive from the outside. In the short time LA County has been promoting them, I can’t count how many times I’ve heard one of the attendees say that they didn’t know the municipal golf course in
their neighborhood was a public facility, not a private club – how many times one or another has said that they didn’t know they could use the restaurant or book the banquet facilities for a local community group. And, most importantly, they get to see real live golfers that look just like them! Tall, short, a few extra pounds, parents with kids, backward caps, t-shirts, music playing from carts – just everyday folks! My hope is that someday a family is asked “So how were you introduced to the game”? and the reply will be “We took the kids to an EasterEgg Hunt, saw golfers having a great time, and decided to give it a try!” I also hope that someday, municipal golf courses remove their current branding and signage and replace them with “Community Golf Course” signs. This act may just put an end to the “I didn’t know this was a public facility” mindset once and for all. Continue to be humbled by the realization that what we think we know may not be what really is, a life lesson elevated for me in the last few years.
Tall, short, a few extra pounds, parents with kids, backward caps, t-shirts, music playing from carts just everyday folks!
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Member Updates WELCOME WAGON Aaron Moe, PGA - Pacific Northwest Aaron West, PGA - Unaffiliated Section Brian Calhoun, PGA - Southwest Bryan Flanagan, PGA - Colorado Cody Smith - Northern California Cortney Shrout, PGA - Gulf States Derek Guzman - New Jersey Dominic Scopone, PGA - Alabama Donald Devantier, PGA - Michigan Evan Mitchell, PGA - Pacific Northwest Geoffrey Bisi, PGA - Colorado Grayson Arellano - Minnesota Harrison Taylor, PGA - Pacific Northwest Jacob Dolby, PGA - Wisconsin John Reilly, PGA - Mid Atlantic Joshua Diemer - Northern Ohio Justin Saragueta, PGA - Northern California Justin Blomberg, PGA - Colorado Kim Kleinle, PGA - Philadelphia Michael Jick, PGA - Rocky Mountain Michael Fields, PGA - Pacific Northwest Nathan Meyer, PGA - Southwest Parker Rolfes, PGA - Metropolitan Philip Conrad, PGA - Metropolitan Robert Newbill, PGA - Minnesota Robert Hayes, PGA - Northern California Robert Strowman, PGA - New England Russell Schreiber, PGA - Cental New York Sean Lanyi, PGA - Pacific Northwest Sherry Andonian, PGA - Colorado Tara Liebert - Southern Ohio Zachary Gleysteen, PGA - Nebraska
WELCOME BACK
John Healy, PGA Jack Makkai, PGA
Michael Bellemeur, PGA
WELCOME NEW ASSOCIATES December of 2018 at Section headquarters. Led by Eric Mitchell, PGA of Anaheim Hills Golf Course, 13 new Associates joined the evergrowing list of aspiring PGA Golf Professionals. 10
PROGRAM MAGAZINE - SPRING ISSUE
MOVING UP Stan Gonzales, PGA | A-13 - Dos Lagos Golf Club Steven Butler, PGA | A-1 - Camarillo Springs Golf Club Ed Harris, PGA | A-1 - National City Golf Course John Kennedy, PGA | A-9 - Emerald Isle Golf Course Jeremy Clevenger, PGA | A-4 - Pauma Valley Country Club Michael Coleman, PGA | A-8 - Thunderbird Country Club Michael Fields, PGA | A-14 - Indian Wells Country Club John Healy, PGA | A-9 - La Quinta Resort Golf Course Bryan Flanagan, PGA | A-1 - La Canada Flintridge Country Club Scott Scozzola, PGA | A-13 - Brookside Golf Club Nicole Gatch, PGA | A-11 - Southern California Section Toby Todd, PGA | A-13 - Dad Miller Golf Course Cory Davis, PGA | A-1 - Silver Lakes Country Club Dean Wilson-Garbutt, PGA | A-1 - The Santaluz Club Todd Iacono, PGA | A-13 - Eagle Crest Golf Club David Beyer, PGA | A-13 - Whittier Narrows Golf Course Justin Saragueta, PGA | A-4 - Saticoy Country Club Grant Strobel, PGA | A-1 - MCAS/Miramar Memorial GC Colby Hartje, PGA | A-1 - Santa Barbara Golf Club Martin Matsuzaki, PGA | A-1 - Toscana Country Club Jeffrey Hastings, PGA | A-13 - DeBell Golf Course James Stout, PGA | A-1 - Pro Kids Golf Academy Scott Tilley, PGA | A-1 - The Crosby Club Monta Sokolovska, PGA | A-1 - The Oaks Club at Valencia Kyle Jones | B-4 - Tierra Rejada Golf Club Kyle Mendoza, PGA | A-1 - South Hills Country Club Jinhyung Park | B-1 - Bakersfield Country Club
NEWLY ELECTED PGA MEMBERS Travis Bregman, PGA James Camello, PGA Troy Clark, PGA Cory Davis, PGA Christopher Dunn, PGA John Healy, PGA Erika Ilagan, PGA Junwoo Kim, PGA Landan Maassen, PGA Martin Matsuzaki, PGA
Matthew McKovich, PGA Kyle Mendoza, PGA Zebadiah Montoya-Sanchez, PGA Zachary Moya, PGA Brady Phillips, PGA Kyle Sidlo, PGA Kevin Tagliione, PGA Ryan Wood, PGA Herman Zhao, PGA
NEW ASSOCIATES Kyle Barker Charles Baynes Douglas Beckman Andrew Buddle James Ebzery Benjamin Edwards Kalani Francisco
Allen Geiberger Jr Geungtae Kim Marcus Mercado-Kiel Lachlan Mitchell Jordan Negus Bryan Newman Nicholas Newsom
QUARTER CENTURY
HALF CENTURY
Gary Cliplef, PGA Kenneth Conant, PGA Jim Dennerline, PGA Rick Garboski, PGA Kelly Manos, PGA John McComish, PGA Kay Miller, PGA Theodore Parker, PGA Brett Porath, PGA Chuck Pugh, PGA Thomas McCray, PGA Donald Rasmussen, PGA
Skip Whittet, PGA David Stockton Sr, PGA Ed Montgomery, PGA Charles Courtney, PGA
IN MEMORIAM Danny Pucillo, PGA Tony Manzoni, PGA Horace Evans, PGA Albert Roush, PGA John Wolgamott, PGA
William O’Farrell Nicholas Walthery Jihoon Won Eero Niemela Jeremy Pascale
NEWLY CERTIFIED IN GENERAL MANAGEMENT Zachary Casey, PGA
ORGANIZATION USES GOLF TO HELP MAKE VETERANS “WHOLE” AGAIN By Jordan Schwarts (USGA Lead Creative and Content)
“Vets Whole in One aims to transition veterans back to normal life through mindful meditation and golf.” - Alex Rogers, Vets Whole in One Board Member Lenny Cataudella served 20 years in the United States Navy, including 12 months with boots on the ground fighting in Afghanistan. Like many veterans, he suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with symptoms such as anxiety, depression, poor sleep and a lack of interest in life. Seeking help, the 56-year-old joined a group called Merging Vets & Players (MVP). Started by sportscaster Jay Glazer in 2015, MVP works to bring former military and retired athletes together to discuss life after the uniform. Earlier this year, several MVP members were invited to join a new organization dubbed “Vets Whole in One” based in West Los Angeles. The non-profit looks to transition those who have experienced the horrors of war back to normal life through mindful meditation and golf. “The game has made me enjoy life again, make new friends and focus on something,” said Cataudella, of Hermosa Beach, Calif. “It gives you a new lease on life.” Vets Whole in One is the brainchild of longtime PGA Teaching Professional Jim Dennerline. Growing up in Kansas, he learned the game from his father, who was also an instructor. Dennerline began teaching the game while playing at the University of Kansas and enjoyed it so much that he made a career of it. “My real breakthrough was when I started working with veterans seven years ago,” Dennerline said. “I can’t explain the appreciation they show me. The general public is fun, but it’s a whole different appreciation from these vets. The last seven years have been so wonderful.”
Dennerline worked with other veterans organizations but grew frustrated with the red tape, so he decided to create one of his own. “We’re trying to introduce golf to veterans to help them get back into life,” he said. “We had to get them to quiet their minds because the golf ball requires 100 percent of your focus and a lot of them are distracted.” The loud ringing in Danny Saez’s ears is a result of his time in the Navy. “Tinnitus can be very subtle, but in my case, it’s very severe. But when I get on the golf course, it disappears,” he said. “That’s my happy place.” Saez, a longtime USGA member from Culver City, fell in love with the game in 2005 while he was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. That’s when he came up with the dream of starting a business that would give back to veterans through golf. Eight years later, he met Dennerline at Heroes Golf Course in Los Angeles and began working as a greenkeeper. That relationship led to Saez serving on the “Vets Whole in One” advisory board. “My goal is to give back to vets like myself,” he said. “The therapy it provides, the mindfulness that we provide as a program, there’s nothing like it.” Fellow advisory board member Alex Rogers of Santa Monica said it’s been a very successful inaugural year for the organization in terms of helping vets through golf. “The physical aspect of just getting out in CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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Alex Rogers from Vets Whole in One at the Heroes Golf Course on the west Los Angeles veterans administration campus
nature, the concentration of focusing on that little ball makes everything else go out of focus,” he said. “The socializing is another huge aspect.” When Stephen Islas, 69, returned from Vietnam in January 1972, he didn’t trust anyone and therefore he didn’t open up to anyone. Instead, he threw himself into meditation. More than four decades later, he’s using what he has learned as Vets Whole in One’s mindfulness expert. “When we gave our first classes, they started feeling relaxed and opening up with each other,” said Islas, of Playa Vista. “There was a lot more laughter the more classes that we had. I had guys come up to me and thank me for the knowledge.” Islas serves on the board of directors with Dennerline and Nate Boyer, a former active duty Green Beret who served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan before making the University of Texas football team as a walk-on at 29. He became the oldest rookie in NFL history when he joined the Seattle Seahawks as the team’s long snapper at 34. “I have this propensity to take things on later in life,” said Boyer. “Golf was my next passion and I started playing a lot. I got addicted to it.”
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Boyer also met Dennerline at the course located on Veterans Affairs grounds in Los Angeles and bought into the mission of “Vets Whole in One.” “It’s just a peaceful game,” Boyer said. “It’s all about rhythm and tempo. Especially the younger vets in postwar time, they don’t have good rhythm and tempo. They’re just living these high-tempo lives. There’s such a thing as lack of traumatic stress and it can become difficult to find your place.” Thomas Harris, 44, of Lawndale, enjoys spending time with other veterans. That’s why he joined MVP and “Vets Whole in One”. “The real healing begins when you open your mouth and you’re willing to share about your experiences,” he said.
Originally published on Jan 4, 2019 on usga.org Jordan Schwartz is the creative and content lead for the USGA Foundation. Email him at jschwartz@usga.org.
“S TEP RIGH T UP! TAKE A CHANCE A T THE GUESS YOUR SHO T CON TES T!” By Ryan Trengrove, PGA Director of Instruction at Golf Swing Prescription
Tell us how far you will hit the ball. If you guess within 5 yards …YOU WIN! Sounds like a carnival game doesn’t it? Well, that’s because it is golf’s version of a carnival game. Yet, it’s not at a carnival. It was an exciting exhibit at the Annual Ski Dazzle Ski Show in Los Angeles during November. This may sound a little far-fetched, but it’s a true story and fun attraction. For the past two years, I have been running this contest at Ski Dazzle through my company, Golf Swing Prescription in which I am the Director of Instruction and Facility Owner. It may be surprising to some, especially since the event is mainly focused on ski related exhibits but, it’s been a huge hit! Jim Foster and Judy Gray, Ski Dazzle Show Owners, wanted to add something new and exciting to their annual event. Since Jim [LP1] is an avid golfer, he couldn’t resist investigating whether he could add one of his favorite past times to an otherwise winter-sport themed event. Jim contacted me to find out if I would be interested in hosting a golf exhibit at the Ski Dazzle Show. Being that I am an expert snowboarder and golf entrepreneur, I thought it sounded like a fun way to get people excited about the game of golf. I have experience bringing engaging golf experiences to the LA Golf Show and advised Jim on what he would need to pull it off – a 22-foot hitting cage that would allow him to set up a range for real golf balls and his Flight Scope Launch Monitor for the contest. Jim quickly said, “No problem. What about a big sign?” I said, “That would be great. I’ll bring the rest.” We coordinated it perfectly and the first ever Ski Dazzle “Guess Your Shot Contest” was under way. I brought my teaching Staff and Fiancée, Sarah Pastor, to assist. They didn’t know how well a golf contest would translate with an audience that was going to the show particularly for ski and snowboard related attractions. The contest drew a crowd and they learned that winter sport lovers were also passionate about trying their hand at golf. From across the convention center, you would hear, “WINNNNER!!!”. What did they win? Well a 45-minute Complimentary Golf Swing Analysis at my state-of-the-art golf training center “Golf Swing Prescription,” located in Laguna Hills, CA (where 5,000 golf lessons are given annually). If the contestant came from out of the area, then they were offered a training DVD. For those that wanted the free lesson but were also interested in his video training, we told them about the new online video training program BetterGolfin8Weeks. com where we share tried-and-tested first 8 weeks of key fundamental training strategies, which I have perfected in giving over 2,500 golf lessons a year (and more than 30,000 in my career). Happy contestants left proudly with their winnings in hand, adding good vibes to the show. In two years, more than 900 people signed up to take their chances at the “Guess Your Shot Contest.” You read that correctly. Almost 1,000 people that showed up for a ski show found themselves hitting golf balls to win prizes. Jim and I
were excited to find out this collaboration was a great success. It turns out a lot of skiers golf in their off season, so many of the contestants were regular golfers. But it was even more of a success in other ways. My youngest contestant was five years old and he had at least 100 contestants that never tried golf before! So the “Guess Your Shot” contest proved to be a WIN for everyone. The Ski Show had even happier patrons with more fun things to do, we had hundreds of new potential students, and most excitingly, non-golfers were being exposed to golf in a non-traditional setting. While it’s not a common consideration, ski shows should be considered a great place for golf companies to exhibit since they aren’t competing for the same season. For the contestants that had never played before, I would give them a mini lesson focused on grip, setup, ball position, and basic body movements to get them the experience of sweeping the grass and the ball flying into the air. I was thrilled to bring the game of golf to this new audience and see their instant delight and engagement in the game. As any golfer will tell you, the wonderful feeling of hitting a golf ball into the air is one of the main reasons we love this great game!
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T
he disparate parts we call the golf industry have been good at telling golf’s environmental story, particularly when it comes to describing just how efficiently the game uses water. But we’ve done a poor job of telling golf’s business story, allowing others to tell that story for us. And many of the “others” have told our story to their advantage – other recreational communities looking to convert golf’s municipal properties to their use, developers looking to convert daily-fee courses into housing tracts, and urban politicians looking to exercise their prejudices against a game they consider out of touch with modernity. They tell our story using accurate facts and figures to be sure, and their figures don’t lie. But they don’t tell the whole truth either. The whole truth requires context, and nowhere does this principle apply more than in the way the “others” plant their destructive axioms by analyzing the golf industry as if the game began in 2008. Viewed through the lens of a universe that began in 2008, the numbers aren’t good. There aren’t as many golfers as there were a decade ago. Despite the dedication of so much energy and so many resources to junior golf development, there are fewer junior golfers in America today than a decade ago. Aggressive discounting has become the norm in the daily-fee market and is fast becoming a way of life in the municipal realm. Golf clubs of all stripes are smaller than they used to be, and a number of private clubs have ample exit lists. We can’t remember the last time a golf course opened, but we can certainly recall a bevy of recent closures. Throw in a series of severe droughts, a tighter regulatory noose and geometrically increasing costs of water and energy – and it’s easy to sell a dismal picture.
“You are the games front-line ambassadors.”
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But there’s another way, a contextual way, a more accurate and intellectually honest way, to look at the golf industry’s numbers. And let me suggest it’s a way calculated to much better serve the game’s interests in the public spaces where the game’s fate is going to be sealed. And it goes something like this. Literally from the moment the shooting stopped after World II until early in the 21st Century, golf enjoyed an unprecedented run of success. For 59 consecutive years from 1946 through 2004, there were more golf courses in America on December 31 of each of those years than on January 1. Through wars, recessions, double-dip recessions, threats of thermonuclear war, hyper-inflations, gas lines, domestic unrest, constitutional crises, malaises and all other sorts of dislocations, one thing remained constant: Golf grew. Sometimes it grew faster, sometimes slower – but it grew. As with any such consistent run of success, the golf industry thought the good times would roll on forever, leading to a particularly robust run of construction at the tail end of the 59-year expansion. The ancient Greeks called it hubris; a certain Federal Reserve Chairman called it “irrational exuberance.” Call it what you want, but that is
A BETTER WAY TO TELL GOLF’S STORY; NO ONE BETTER TO TELL IT THAN A PGA PROFESSIONAL. what human beings always seem to do; golfers are no exception. By 2005, the golf industry was long overdue for a market correction. And the market began to “correct.” Golf courses built in the 1990s on business models requiring an ever increasing supply of golfers willing and able to remit triple-digit greens fees began to struggle as supply outran demand. Adding to the problem were hundreds, if not, thousands of golf courses that were constructed predicated not upon selling memberships or greens fees, but upon selling the condos and houses that surrounded them. This often left an unsustainable golf course/club once all the real estate was sold. And what was the sector whose bubble burst in 2008 and led America into its deepest recession since the 1930s? Two intersecting market correction forces conspired in 2008 to triple down on the overdue golf market correction. The fact that the industry has just begun to see some green shoots sprouting from the dry ground created thereby is indicative of nothing more than the reality that it does take time to rebound from the confluence of two bursting bubbles. It is not necessarily indicative of a game no longer in sync with modernity or a game no longer appealing to a swath of the population large enough to sustain its ambitions. That story is a far cry from the “sky is falling” fare that
BY CRAIG KESSLER CKESSLER@SCGA.ORG
has dominated too many pages of too many newspapers and magazines in recent years. It’s the story we need to start telling if we hope to retain the public support antecedent to positive outcomes. It’s the story we need to start shouting from mountaintops if we hope to preserve the game’s municipal stock, the driver of the game’s growth engine. What’s the point in investing so much in our junior and developmental programs if we have nowhere to ply them? There is no better place to start telling that more positive story than our golf courses and no folks better suited to tell it than PGA Golf Professionals. They teach the game, promote the game, and act as the primary contact point at every golf shop counter in the nation. They are the ones that golfers at every club in America turn to for information and advice. They are the ones in whom golfers place the greatest confidence. Remember that the next time someone asks you how the industry or your club is doing. Your answer will go a long way toward fashioning the more positive narrative your profession and our industry needs to thrive. You are the game’s front-line ambassadors. SCPGA.COM
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Tony Letendre, PGA President
Robin Shelton, PGA Vice President
Eric Lohman, PGA Secretary
Todd Keefer, PGA Honorary President
Dr. Alison Curdt, PGA Director
Ed Holmes Independent Director
Joe Grohman, PGA Director
Kim Falcone, PGA Independent Director
Mike van der Goes, PGA Director
Randy Chang, PGA Director
Rob Oosterhuis, PGA Director
Scott Heyn, PGA Director
Introducing Your 2019 SCPGA
Board of Directors
David Mowery, PGA Mike Valdez, PGA Kendall Palu, PGA San Diego Chapter Representative Desert Chapter Representative Northern Chapter Representative
Voting for the two At Large Director positions took place at the Annual Meeting at The Wilshire Country Club. Dr. Alison Curdt and Randy Chang won the vote and will sit on the board for two-year terms. Mike van der Goes filled the vacant position from Derek Hardy and President Tony Letendre appointed Kim Falcone and Ed Holmes as the two Independent Directors.
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Steve Adamiak, PGA Inland Empire Representative
Vic Placeres, PGA Metropolitan Chapter Representative
B i th Kno
Previously, everyone wore the PGA Professional rocker. A PGA Professional represents the 24,000+ PGA Members as well as the 4,000+ PGA Associates. After careful deliberation by multiple Member Committees and the Board of Directors, the determination was made that this wasn’t giving enough value to the years spent becoming a PGA Member. Thus, the PGA of America created a logo that better represented that work and better differentiated between PGA Member and Associates - all of whom are “Professionals.”
FA ’s WHY THE CHANGE? To better promote the PGA Member and help employers understand the value of Lifelong Learning in each of the three career tracks. BENEFIT TO MEMBERS? We’re going to focus on and promote the value of the PGA Member and members who put in the work to become Specialists, Certified Professionals and Master Professionals to educate employers and ultimately drive value. WHY WERE THE STARS REMOVED FROM THE CERTIFIED & MASTER PROFESSIONAL LOGOS? This topic was vetted extensively by the Education, Employment and Membership Committees as well as numerous Certified and Master Professionals with the decision made that the stars will no longer be a part of PGA Master Professional or PGA Certified Professional Logos. The reasoning for this change is that in this five-star+ world of reviews, we felt that branding our Certified and Master Professionals with only two or four stars would not be an appropriate representation of their skills.
LEARN MORE AT PGA.ORG SCPGA.COM
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GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
Shawn Cox was named the SCPGA 2018 Golf Professional of the Year, an award that was
at the Section’s Annual President’s Dinner, an evening dedicated to honoring the Get to Know presented outstanding achievements of Southern California PGA Members in 2018. Shawn Cox strives for nothing but perfection as the Director of Golf at The Grand Golf Club, at the triple Five-Star Fairmont Grand Del Mar Resort. His dedication to perfection shows in every aspect of his craft.
As Director of Golf, Cox oversees all golf operations, including tournament programs and staff supervision since joining the team in 2006. Cox has had an extensive career of more than 25 years working within the golf industry and is a longtime member of the Southern California PGA. Most recently, he served as the host of the 2018 California Teaching and Coaching Summit held at The Grand Golf Club, where 225 attendees took part in the popular two-day event. Mostly working in the private golf sector, Cox has worked for numerous golf facilities including Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego, CA, La Jolla Country Club in La Jolla, CA and now in his current position at The Grand Golf Club. A PGA Member since 2001, Cox has served for several years on the Board of Directors for the San Diego Chapter of the SCPGA, has been an active participant in numerous Section committees, and is currently on the Membership, Education and Teaching Committees for the Section. One of his accomplishments as a board member include creating the San Diego PGA/Industry Pro-AM, an event to raise money for tournaments and educational funds for the Chapter. He has also been involved with the Titleist Performance Institute and is involved with the Wounded Warriors Instruction Program.
A Little More
A native of Seattle, Washington, Cox holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Washington, where he was on the 1991 National, and Rose Bowl Championship Football Team and inducted into the Husky Hall of Fame. Shawn currently resides in San Diego with his wife Katie and their two children Taylor and Corey. LEFT TO RIGHT: TAYLOR, COREY, KATIE AND SHAWN
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4thual FOUNDATION CLASSIC Ann
2019 CHAMPIONS, DEEPDALE GOLF CLUB
RIVIERA COUNTRY CLUB DIRECTOR OF GOLF, TODD YOSHITAKE, PGA
The Riviera Country Club played host to the 4th Annual SCPGA Foundation Classic where Deepdale Golf Club finished on top of the 19 teams playing an 18-hole Stableford format. $85,000 was raised by participants from across America’s most prestigious Golf Clubs, with all proceeds going to the Southern California PGA Foundation’s College Scholarship and ClubsForeYouth® programs. Darrell Kestner, of Deepdale Golf Club (NY) claimed back-to-back low PGA Professional titles after recording 40 points on the pristine course. Kestner was the PGA of America’s 2017 Golf Professional of the Year and former PNC Champion. With Kestner leading the charge, Deepdale Golf Club was able to claim the title with a team score of 105! On behalf of the Southern California PGA Foundation, special thanks to Megan Watanabe and Michael Yamaki for providing the golf course and being a gracious host for the annual event. A huge thanks to PGA Director of Golf, Todd Yoshitake for organizing another first-class event for the Foundation! The Southern California PGA Foundation truly appreciates the support of partners; Maui Jim Sunglasses, Golf Buddy, KJUS, Straight Down, Crystal Plus and Honma.
Watch more on YouTube @SCPGA
Breaking the Invisible Wall Around Golf
By Donna Hoffman Founder of “Women on Course”
I quickly realized there was a need for someone to lift these women over the intimidating barriers surrounding the game, and in the process, connect them to others who shared their business and personal interests.
Donna Hoffman
There have been many barriers in golf for women, however instead of dwelling on what’s in the way, my focus is on tearing down that invisible wall of fear and exclusion which prevents women from participating in the game of golf. I was not always a fan of the sport. In fact, for many years, I was a confirmed golf widow. I viewed the game as slow, boring and taking way too much time. What possible reason would a full-time, working mother have for spending her precious time playing golf? Enter husband number two. He showed me that golf could be a great way to knock multiple things off my weekly to-do list. By playing a quick nine holes, I could combine time with my kids, fit in some exercise and relax with a glass of wine – and do all of that in around two hours! Once I discovered all the benefits that golf could offer, I had to share. It became my mission to help women realize that golf can be more than 18 long holes of chasing a ball that refuses to go into the hole. At the time of my ‘discovery’ I had the perfect vehicle to get the word out. As the president of a video production company, I developed a golf lifestyle television series that went beyond the scorecard to highlight elements that would resonate with women. The content was picked up by AOL when video was making its debut on the Internet. Before I knew it, my inbox was flooded with women interested in “those cute shoes” and where they could buy them.
Women on Course began in 2006 as a happy-hour conversation over a few glasses of wine. Since that time, I’ve spoken with over 20,000 women, 300 golf industry professionals and hosted more golf outings, lessons and play days than I can count. Ask 30 women why they are drawn to golf and you’ll get 30 different answers. And therein lies the answer to cracking the code and growing the number of women who proudly call themselves “golfers.” My first step was to redefine the word “golfer.” Do you only play the 19th hole? Are you a range and wine girl? Do you play just a few holes at twilight or the full 18? At Women on Course, we define all these women as golfers. It’s forbidden to put negative adjectives in front of the word, as the majority of women tend to do. I teach women to redefine themselves. They are not terrible or awful golfers, but rather learning, recreational or lifestyle golfers. My next challenge was to identify golf facilities that would be open to encouraging women to engage in golf that’s fun, price-appropriate and less time-consuming. Over the years, I’ve found industry professionals open to innovation, allowing Women on Course to provide over 800 annual events in formats that draw women of all skill levels. It is a constant educational process to reassure women that they can find a welcome environment to enjoy the game in a way that suits their needs, ability and schedule. At the same time, I continue to search for golf resources to deliver the programs and community elements necessary to attract and keep more women in the game. Investing to create new golfers today will result in more players for tomorrow!
2018 Southern California PGA Professional Champion, Michael Block, PGA VISIT WOMENONCOURSE.COM TO LEARN MORE SCPGA.COM
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WHAT’S IN MY BAG? MICHAEL BLOCK Driver Taylor Made M5, 9 degree I’m not long but I’m not short with my driver, I’ve always gone towards a shorter shaft so it increases my accuracy and I only lose a small amount of distance off the tee
Name Michael Block, PGA Title Head Golf Professional Facility Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club From St. Louis, MO
Fairway wood Taylor Made M2, 15 degree. This 3 wood enables me to hit the same shot off the tee as I do off the ground, which is hard to find in most 3 woods. That is why this has been in my bag for a long time
Golf Ball Taylor Made TP5-X The best golf ball ever made! It’s long off the tee with a very little later movement/spin. Also feels great off the irons and soft around the greens
Resides In Mission Viejo, CA
ACCOLADES •
2018 SCPGA Section Champion
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2017 SCPGA Section Champion
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Five major championship appearances
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Played in 17 PGA Tour events and made the cut 4 times
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2014 PGA Professional National Champion
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2001 California State Open Champion
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Has won 26 SCPGA Section tournaments in 6 years Five-time SCPGA Omega Player of the Year
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Irons Taylor Made Tour Preferred MC A great combination of workability, forgiveness and distance with these irons, which have been in my bag a long time
Ball Marker Mexican Peso Especially the 5 cent coin! I always try to bring home a bunch when I visit Mexico
Pitching Wedges TaylorMade 47 Degree Milled Pitch Wadge Taylor Made 52 & 56 HI-Toe Wedges Titleist Vokey 60 degree V grind
Putter Odyssey 2-Ball Original with 2.75 degrees of loft and 2 degrees upright. I’m pretty sure that I’m going on 20 years with this putter. It’s pretty ugly after all of this time but it still feels great in my hands
Miscellaneous Black tees I always have too many of my black tees in my bag, at least that’s what my caddies tell me. But I make sure that I don’t have to use any other kind when I’m in a tournament
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WHAT’S IN MY BAG? DR. ALISON CURDT Driver Epic SZ 10.5 Project X Stiff Really enjoyed playing this head model as its been in the bag for 2 years and has let me maximize distance. Best drive with this club was reaching 290 at the LPGA Championship last summer
Name Dr. Alison Curdt, PGA Title Director of Instruction Facility Wood Ranch Golf Club From St. Louis, MO
Fairway wood
Epic Rogue 16 degree, Aldila stiff
I struggled a bit early on with the change to this club, but once I got it figured out, it was a nice addition on the par 5’s for me
Golf Ball Chrome Soft This is the best ball Callaway has produced and its been a staple for me the past few years. It’s the right firmness and spin for me and I will keep playing it next year
Resides In Reseda, CA
ACCOLADES •
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Participated in the 2012 & 2014 Wegman’s Tour Championship Participated in the 2015, ‘17 & ‘18 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship
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Qualified for the 2018 PGA Professional Championship
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Three-time SCPGA Omega Player of the Year
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Earned her Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Sport Psychology.
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Irons Apex Pro, Project X Stiff, +1/2, 1 flat I’ve played this head model for three years now and just like the look of the heads and the performance. I’ve gotten comfortable with the irons and feel like they have been solid in the bag
Wedges MD4 52, 56, 60 I’ve really enjoyed this head model and think the traditional look and shape allows me to hit a variety of shots
Ball Marker Florida State I always use a Florida State ballmaker (my alma mater) It makes me happy to remember competing as a college athlete for this school and how hard I worked as a junior to earn a scholarship there
Putter Odyssey 3T, 33.5” 50g counterbalance Second year using this putter and it sets up to my eye well. Been working more on my putting stroke and style and the club has complemented my changes
Miscellaneous Green Sharpie I only mark my golf balls with a green Sharpie so I usually have a couple of them in my bag
SOCAL’S FINEST
SELENA THOMAS WIFE OF CHRIS THOMAS AND THEIR TWO DAUGHTERS, TARA AND TAYLOR
TODD KEEFER AND SHAWN COX
WES WAILEHUA AND TODD KEEFER
The Annual President’s Dinner was held this past December at the Jonathan Club in downtown Los Angeles and hosted by SCPGA outgoing President Todd Keefer, PGA. Congratulations to all the 2018 Special Award Winners who were celebrated among friends, family and fellow PGA Members.
HEIDI RICHARDSON AND TODD KEEFER
2018 AWARD WINNERS Golf Professional of the Year - Shawn Cox, PGA Hall of Fame - Susan Roll, PGA Teacher of the Year - Billy McKinney, PGA Honorary Life Member - Chris Thomas, PGA Horton Smith - John Kulow, PGA Bill Strausbaugh - Rob Oosterhuis, PGA Player Development - Heidi Richardson, PGA Youth Player Development - Josh Alpert, PGA Clubfitter of the Year - Dr. Alison Curdt, PGA Assistant Professional of the Year - Thomas Chu, PGA President’s Award - Steve Frank Community Award - Kevin Martin, PGA
Patriot Award - Joe Grohman, PGA Merchandiser of the year, Public - Duncan Simms, PGA Merchandiser of the Year, Private - Garrett Goodrich, PGA Merchandiser of the Year, Resort - Mark Greenslit, PGA Omega Player of the Year - Michael Block, PGA Omega Women’s Player of the Year - Dr. Alison Curdt, PGA Omega Women’s Associate Player of the Year - Sara Ovadia Omega Senior Player of the Year - Gary Sowinski, PGA Omega Women’s Senior Player of the Year - Mardell Wilkins, PGA Omega APA Player of the Year - Mark Geddes Omega Super Senior Player of the Year - Paul Wise, PGA
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GREENSKEEPING: A SCIENCE AND AN ART As winter gives way to spring, warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours signal the beginning of another busy golf season for many of us here in Southern California. It is a time of renewal, a time to strategize and plot the course of our operations to put into practice the lessons we’ve learned in seasons prior. While we will naturally focus on our own departments, programs, and teams, consider making this spring a time to also build or reinforce the collaborative spirit between golf operations and course maintenance. It is no doubt that understanding and compassion for those we encounter in our day to day lives drives personal growth and this principle is no different in our professional growth as well.
By Daniel Miller Superintendent at Monarch Beach Golf Links
with a heavy emphasis on practical knowledge and experience on golf courses and sports fields.
Whether in maintenance or golf operations, today’s Professionals in our industry are facing the same hurdles posed by a shrinking golfing population, rising labor costs, and increased regulation of resources such as water. In 2019, let’s challenge ourselves to come together, ask a few more questions, and forge new relationships between our respective teams.
It is often said that greenkeeping is a science as well as an art. While this old adage will forever remain true to a degree, today’s technology has brought more clarity and placed more emphasis on the science of my profession. Instruments and electronic devices now allow a turfgrass manager the ability to measure and quantify more environmental factors than ever before. Drones are now measuring infrared reflection to produce daily aerial color-coded maps of courses to help identify dry or otherwise stressed turf. Electronic weather stations provide accurate measurements of temperature, humidity, wind, and the sun’s intensity that triggers threshold alarms for specific turf diseases and insect pests. Electronic handheld moisture and salt meters use mobile data to send readings to cloud-based software that generates maps of current soil conditions. This information can be easily gathered, analyzed, and utilized to form programs and practices that allow turfgrass managers the ability to create more repeatable and predictable outcomes.
So how did the Superintendent or Director of Agronomy at your facility find their way into this career? That’s a great place to start the dialogue and get to know your counterparts. I know I’ve gained a tremendous amount of respect for the golf Professionals I’ve worked with over the years after learning of their early years… late nights they’ve spent cleaning carts, picking up the pieces after a rowdy, alcohol-fueled shotgun tournament, or corralling two dozen screaming kids at a junior clinic. While many of us have worked with fantastically talented turf managers with little to no formal education in agronomy, many of my peers’ and my own path to becoming a Superintendent included earning a bachelor’s degree in Turfgrass Management. Rising golfer expectations and standards of conditioning over the last 25 years fueled a demand for turfgrass managers with a firm grasp on the business acumen and science required to create and maintain the spectacular golf courses we’re all blessed to enjoy. Naturally, universities answered that demand with a plant science degree
While this data does not tell the entire story of the complex interactions that occur in a golf course’s soils and turf canopies, it is incredibly useful to help explain why conditions can vary so greatly from one day to the next. For example, by measuring and monitoring the salt content of soils using a handheld electronic meter, a course superintendent knows exactly when these salts in their putting greens have reached a toxic threshold. This data guides their decision to apply heavy irrigation cycles to leach salt down through the greens soil profile and away from the turf’s roots.This knowledge of salinity in putting green’s soil may help you explain to your members and guests why the greens were firm just yesterday but are much softer and slower today. I encourage you to ask the turf manager at your facility to share with you some of the science that affects playability of the course. Together, you will learn more about the overall operation and in my experience, help foster a mutual respect that carries over into your daily interactions with one another. See you on the course!
SCPGA.COM
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Brookside AT THE ROSE BOWL
By Demi Dailey - SCPGA, Communications Administrator
Tucked in the Pasadena hills, overlooking greens and fairways, Brookside Golf Course at the Rose Bowl is more than just a pit-stop for local golfers. On any given day, Brookside can be subject to college football fans, concert goers, local walkers, bikers, and runners as well as a plethora of Brookside hostedevent attendees. Brandon O’Neill personally manages Brookside which is owned by Levy. Levy is a large operation to say the least. Levy oversees the dining and hospitality services for Brookside, the Rose Bowl as well as Dodger Stadium. Brookside staff not only feed their core-group of golfers who come multiple times a week, but they can also be seen hosting up to five special events a day in their four banquet rooms. Brookside has it all: two beverage carts and two snack bars serving golfers on-course; barbecue so golfers can have burgers and dogs right off the grill; and they just recently added two eTuk carts that are sponsored by Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and Happy Slice. “We just hosted 10,000 visiting Ohio State and Washington fans during the Rose Bowl Game. Needless to say, we have a pretty expansive operation,” O’Neill said. The question then becomes, how to transition from such large scale events to the intimate setting of a golf restaurant, furthermore how do you take that experience and turn it up a notch to make Brookside what it is? For O’Neill the recipe is simple: listening to what the clientele wants. “Most golfers are regulars and want more value and variety. This group craves more unique and entertaining dining experiences. They need a reason to come out and courses need to create a differentiated offering that complements the experience delivered to core golfers,” O’Neill said.
Levy has mastered serving many different types of events and venues. At Brookside, it’s able to tap into Levy’s expertise when running a restaurant. It’s all about being creative and relevant at Brookside. The course offers daily food and beverage specials and value items, and a four-hour “Happy Hour” from 3 to 7 p.m., which targets its regular golfers. It is also next-level when it comes to its culinary game. It aims to craft a menu that attracts the dining public. Brookside also hosts special “Taco Tuesday” promotions and live entertainment on Friday nights for that experience they know the L.A. native is looking for. “It all comes down to knowing your audience and being able to offer a great meal in a unique atmosphere that people will come back for,” O’Neill said. The L.A. style is clear when looking for signature dishes. Chef Mario Harrison’s signature dish is an 18-hour braised Wagyu short rib with Brie agnolotti, Bloomsdale spinach, and a Cabernet soubise. It’s a sight to see. Brookside guests enjoy the Avocado Toast, served on grilled artisan sourdough topped with avocado, fire roasted organic sweet corn, two eggs, cotija cheese and cilantro. O’Neill says challenging yourself to be better is the only way to grow. “Listening to your guests is key. When you see as many people as Brookside does, you have to keep your ears and mind open,” O’Neill said. “Good isn’t good enough if it can be better. Better isn’t good enough if it can be great. Don’t settle for average,” O’Neill said.
O’Neill’s career started in the golf industry in 1998. He was the assistant manager at Las Vegas Golf and Tennis, focusing on purchasing and fitting. From there, he entered the PGA program at JW Marriott, and helped open Trilogy Golf Club at La Quinta as an Assistant Golf Professional and merchandiser before being promoted to Head Golf Professional and then GM. Since then, O’Neill’s career has taken him all over the map. From operating two private clubs for Toll Brothers in Northern Virginia, to living in Maui as a consultant for Makena Golf and Beach Club, to operating private and semi-private clubs in the Coachella Valley, to operating several clubs for American Golf in Northern and Southern California. In August, he made the transition to work for Levy and Brookside at the Rose Bowl. “While I still get to be part of golf and interact with them on a daily basis this move has allowed me to pursue my culinary passion and deliver a great dining experience day after day,” O’Neill said. 28
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10 Healthy Snacks Sometimes the smallest details can have the biggest impact on performance, and eating the right snacks can help you go from bogey to birdie. Here are 10 must-haves to stay energized during those long days on the course.
Beef Jerky
Salty and savory, perfect for the golfer on the go
Edamame
Garlic powder and olive oil dress up plain green soybeans
Protein Packed
High Fiber & Protein
Energy Bites
Packed with peanut butter, old fashioned oats, and chia seeds, it’s a delicious, energyfilled snack
Blueberries
Freeze a handful of these for a quick, delicious snack filled with Vitamins A and C
Popcorn
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic salt, red pepper flakes for a little flavor
Protein
Nutrients
High Fiber
A little dab’ll do ya Roasted Almonds with this one. Just a few
Fiber Filled
Tortilla Chips Quick & Easy
almonds contain good fats and Vitamin E With a touch of sea salt, tortilla chips offer support for healthy digestion
Trail Mix
Nuts support your heart and the combination of salty and sweet is just the perfect pick-me-up
Apples & Cheese
Natural sugar, fiber and vitamins from the apple, as well as some calcium and protein from the cheese
Salty & Sweet
Energy & Fiber
Oatmeal Cups Antioxidants
To start off the morning right, combine oats, bananas, brown sugar, milk & eggs - get baking!
ROBIN SHELTON, PGA SCPGA VICE PRESIDENT
The Teeter-Totter of Balance When I get to connect with my mentors or people growing in their career, I generally ask the same two questions. “What are you working on that has you excited? In what areas are you trying to improve?” I generally always hear balance is a focus area for improvement. As we start the new year, this is often a resolution or goal for many Golf Professionals – the quest for balance. After struggling with balance for many years, I decided that my perception of balance was unachievable. I became more frustrated when I wasn’t achieving a personal priority. I could never find the balance that society and ‘self help’ TV segments stressed was so important. I then found a metaphor that was extremely helpful – a teeter-totter. A teeter-totter is never in balance, one side is always being pulled in a stronger direction. The only way for the teetertotter to be in balance is with no motion, or one person standing in the middle doing nothing. Life doesn’t work that way – it’s impossible to have no motion or stand somewhere doing nothing. I feel like I’m always pulled in different directions – family, Members, Board Members, staff, bosses, corporate teammates – there’s always something grabbing my time and attention. Then, there’s the big Member-Guest tournament, the dining event, the staff member looking for career growth, the great project, or the “it will slow down after X” quote (that never happens to slow down)
I’ve learned that I’m always on this teetertotter, running between different directions; and that’s OK. Sometimes my time will be skewed to work. Sometimes my time will be skewed to corporate projects. I know I’m going to get pulled in different directions. I have to be sure that I don’t neglect the family or personal priorities. Sometimes my teeter-totter will be skewed towards family – and that’s totally OK, especially after a busy time at the Club. If I have a long week(s) at the Club or a big Member-Guest tournament, there better be a weekend trip committed to my wife. If I have committee or planning meetings and a week of late nights, I need to have day(s) where I leave early. I hope that my experience or perspective on balance may be helpful to you. Below are some tips that I might help with your teeter-totter or seeking balance: • Schedule it – Schedule weekends off, family time, three-day trips. What goes on your schedule first tells a lot about a person’s priorities. • ABCs – Follow the ABC’s of relationships:
A – Accountability Partner: Have someone you trust check in with you to ensure all parts of your life are being given time. B – Boundaries: Set boundaries – days off/time off; cell phone off on certain days/times, etc. C – Clarity: Ensure that all involved parties have clarity how your schedule can be impacted.
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STAFF HIGHLIGHT
NIKKI GATCH, PGA NIKKI IS THE SCPGA’S CHIEF MEMBERSHIP OFFICER
10 THINGS
From the desk of Jeff Johnson, PGA
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Did you know that our very active tournament and Junior Golf programs contribute nearly $2 million at our section facilities in golf fees and F&B.
Pepsi, OMEGA, Cadillac and AIG Insurance have become partners with the PGA of America.
GolfTEC made a $53,000 donation in support of PGA Reach, the charitable foundation of the PGA of America.
It’s pretty widely accepted that golf began in Scotland 500+ years ago. The Chinese, however, claim to have invented a similar game during the Song dynasty as far back Ds 943 A.D.
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After seven years with the PGA of America in their Player Development department, Nikki Gatch has joined the SCPGA Staff as Chief Membership Officer. Gatch previously worked for the SCPGA from 1998-2012. She is the daughter of PGA Life Member, Buzz Gill, and wife of PGA Member Don Gatch. It’s safe to say that the game of golf and the PGA is, and has been, an integral part of Nikki’s life. Nikki explains, “I just can’t seem to get away from the PGA, nor would I ever want to! I have been fortunate to have been around the game all of my life, starting with wanting to go to work with Dad and wear the awesome bright golf clothes he wore in the 70s, to gravitating back to the game when it was time to decide a career path. This game has created lifelong friendships for me, it helped me attain a college education, it led me to my husband, and it has provided an unbelievable career opportunity for me. I am forever indebted to this game, and I am thrilled and honored to work every day with our Section Members and staff to help them succeed by impacting lives through our game.” Nikki and Don currently reside in San Marcos with their two children, Jamie (18) and Andrew (14) and their two beagles, Blue and Sparky. Nikki is (self-proclaimed) the most loyal Oklahoma State and Dallas Cowboys fan in the world.
PGA Junior League Golf will likely meet the goal of 60,000 participants this year. All indications that the game is healthy and the future is bright.
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It is essential that you become familiar with PGAPERKS. Check it out in the Benefits Section at PGA.ORG.
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16-year-old Toyota Tour Cup player Jason Bannister was inside the ropes at the PGA TOUR’s, Desert Classic playing with Michael Block, PGA, for a thrilling practice round. Thanks Michael.
To date the wildly successful ClubsForeYouth® initiative has donated 481 sets of golf clubs to high school student athletes in need.
Our very own Junko Suzuki, PGA, has taken the role representing our Association and our Section as the Regional Junior League Golf Manager. Good stuff.
Joe Grohman, PGA, and his team conducted just shy of 30 events and clinics last year for disabled veterans. No wonder he is our Patriot Award honoree.
CHAPTER CORNER UPDATES FROM THE SCPGA CHAPTERS Happy 2019 from all of us here in the Desert Chapter. We finished off a great 2018 with our Annual Meeting hosted by The “S” at Rancho Mirage. We awarded both our players of the year and special awards recipients. Golf Professional of the Year - Simon Letts, PGA, Assistant Golf Professional of the Year - Alexander Witt, PGA, Club Fitter of the Year - Reeve Krikke, PGA, PGA Youth Development Award - Rodney Silvagni, PGA, Teacher of the Year - Bryan Lebedevitch, PGA, Public Merchandiser of the Year - Daniel Boguslaw, PGA, Private Merchandiser of the Year Desert Chapter - Doug Hoffert, PGA, Resort Merchandiser of the Year - Joe Kobrick, PGA & Ryan Szydlowski, PGA, Salesperson of the Year - Kirby Pert, PGA, Mediaperson of the Year - Geoff Bloom, Player of the Year - Chris Gilley, PGA, Senior Player of the year - Mike Mitchell, PGA, Associate Player of the Year - David Curtis. We’re also looking forward to a great tournament season here in the desert. The Chaparral Pro-Am was contested on January 24th and saw Brian Hughes, PGA, take the title. Brian shot a round of 2-under par and edged out David Curtis PGA, by one stroke. Our next event is the Foster Cup at Ivey Ranch on March 12th. It has been a very Happy New Year for Inland Empire Chapter! Hope everyone is off to a good start and is ready for a great 2019 season. Congratulations to Kenny Pigman, PGA, who won The Farmers Club Car Aggregate Series and by doing so earned an invitation into the Farmers Insurance Open! As we move forward into the Inland Empire Chapter events we are excited to welcome Kenny Inland Empire Chapter Pigman, PGA as the Inland Empire Chapter President. Congratulations to the Metro Chapter for their victory at the Chapter Challenge at Oakmont Country Club. The Inland Empire team finished runner up. Team members included Jeff Cross, PGA, Dan Horning, Jerry Crowell, PGA, Paul Dietsche, PGA, Amberlynn Dorsey, Ross Fisher, PGA, Kenny Pigman, PGA, Steve Tanis, Frank Yellam, PGA, Vinnie Bertagna, PGA, Barrett Martens, PGA, and Ryan Prior, PGA. Great job out there! Our Annual Meeting / Pro-Assistant was held at River Ridge on Monday, December 17. Here we awarded the Tournament and Special Award Winners for the year. Jack Swisher, PGA and Kyle Jones, PGA are our Pro-Assistant Champions. They were victorious in a sudden death playoff over Leo Lee, PGA and Jae Suh, PGA, both sides carding 6-under-par 66’s in the Four-Ball format. This event concluded our Player of the Year race with this year’s honor going to Dr. Alison Curdt, PGA. The Northern Chapter Board achieved their goal to have the 2019 event calendar finalized prior to the beginning of the year. In addition, an individual stroke-play tournament has been added on October 7. We reintroduced the Pro-Junior and had great success in 2018. In 2019, it will return to Rustic Canyon Golf Club. Our priority is to increase participation and make this a bigger and better event. This year, we may develop the format to allow professionals to bring multiple juniors which opens the door to increase the number of teams in the field. Discussion was held at our Annual Meeting about PGA Junior League and how it’s not only successful to grow the future of the game but has opportunities for financial gain for facilities. Welcome everyone to 2019 in the Metropolitan Chapter. We are looking forward to an exciting year of tournament play. This year our chapter looks to continue being a huge contributor to PGA Junior League. We wish all the best to our captains and teams with their season. We have all but secured our tournament season for the year. We are pleased to have the following dates and sites confirmed. July 8 Old Ranch Country Club will host our Summer Meeting 4-ball championship. July 29 we return to South Hills Country Club for the Chapter Championship. Our Annual Meeting will be held on November 4 and the site is TBD. We will publish that information once details are in place. Thank you to all of our hosts this year, their staff and our partners. We truly appreciate your support with our tournament schedule. We look forward to seeing a strong level of participation this year and wish everyone the best in 2019.
Extra thanks goes out to Sycuan Golf Resort for stepping up on short notice to host our Chapter’s Annual Meeting. Clint Higgins, PGA Director of Golf, and his staff organized a fantastic event and golf tournament. Chris Starkjohann took home the low PGA Professional trophy firing a 3-under-par 69. The team consisting of PGA Professionals Matt Gibbens, Jeremy Clevenger, Steve Lyons, and Kimberly Falcone won the 2-person best ball with a 12-under par performance. At the Annual Meeting, the 2018 Special Award Winners were revealed. Congratulations to the following San Diego Chapter PGA Professionals: Salesperson of the Year - Jim Lumadue, Footjoy; Merchandiser of the Year (resort) - Ross Marcano, PGA, Barona Creek; Merchandiser of the Year - Brian Smock, PGA, Coronado GC; Clubfitter of the year - Monica Stratton, PGA, Carlsbad Golf Center; Player Development - Chris Smeal, PGA, Stadium Golf Center; Junior Golf Leader - Mitch Stout, PGA, Pro Kids; Bill Strausbaugh - John Osborne, PGA, San Diego CC; Honorary Life Member - Michael Berreras, PGA; Teacher of the Year - John Mason, PGA, Encinitas Ranch; Assistant Professional of the Year - Heather King, PGA, Encinitas Ranch; Golf Professional of the Year - Mark Hayden, PGA Miramar Memorial. Congratulations to John Mason and his PGA Junior League team from Encinitas Ranch! They won the 2018 PGA Junior League National Championship in November at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, AZ.
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MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/ CEO TOM ADDIS III, PGA
The Little Things We Do Do you ever think of things other than tournaments, meetings, education, junior golf and employment assistance that the SCPGA can do for you? Some of the stuff we do for you will probably surprise you. For example, within the walls of 3333 Concours Street, we have an in-house Notary Public, Taylor Vermillion, if you ever need the service. Max DeSpain or Steve Monday will review your local rules card or handout for you to ensure easy access or help you set up your course marking plan. They can also discuss the new rules changes with you. Nikki Gatch will work with you to enhance your incremental values at your club or facility. Jeff Johnson or Ken Ferrell will review your resume and Jeff and I can review some of your facility operations aspects such as the layout of your policies and procedures. Ken, of course, will assist you with your resume or your employment agreement. Sharon Curfman will ensure your MSR and your membership information is current and Ken and Sharon will bug you about completing the Compensation Survey each year. We can help you with the design of your business cards and your stationery, just contact Ariana Gomez or Demi Dailey and we’ll also point you in the direction of a printer to get your stuff done. Bryce Seiver or Demi can help you with web and website questions and social media questions. Also, don’t forget the One-on-One Marketing and mentoring program we provide, where a consultant will help you set up your marketing plan for your facility or your instruction program. Just contact me. Our Swing Tips program allows us to showcase our PGA Professionals through the SCGA membership. We’re working day-to-day to showcase our PGA Professionals and their facilities, whether it be print, video, Facebook or Instagram. We also have the opportunity to assist in finding a supplier to provide you with services you may need for every day operations – golf shop supplies, on-course tournament supplies such as signage and canopies, just to name a couple things. Feel free to contact Dave Kuhn for those services. 34
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Even if you need help with some fund-raising activity or fund raising methods, Matt Gilson can field your questions. Kristy Wattimena, our Finance Manager, can respond to simple questions dealing with reading, or constructing, a balance sheet or a simple income statement for your operations. And, of course, Kristy will help you with a missing tournament payoff or something like that. Kristy is also an Excel wizard. Nikki and I will keep you in the know about things happening within the government, especially those things that will affect you and your operations thanks to the access and support from California Alliance for Golf and support in Sacramento at the State Legislature level. Again, not such a little thing, but this provides the opportunity to team with the SCGA and their Government Relations team, headed by Craig Kessler, to keep the Section informed not only at the state level but the local community level. This applies to everything from environmental issues, land use for a golf course and facility or legislative issues. Anthony Leone, Max Berman and Eddie Rodarte, PGA, will guide you in your interest in setting up a school program and Eddie and Amberlynn Dorsey if you need assistance with a golf clinic. Even if you’re looking for a part-time position teaching, our Golf in Schools program with Anthony and Max Berman can provide that opportunity. Kevin Smith and Travis Cutler and the rest of the junior golf staff including Brent Johnston are here to help with tournament operations questions and guidance as is, of course, Max DeSpain and Steve Monday. Do you know we have a very nice library at HQ that is available for your use any time you’d like? Tyler Miller, who you may talk with from time to time when you call our office, is the “librarian” for our nice collection that, for the most part, has been donated by many PGA professionals. The Library can also serve as a private conference room from time-totime if it meets your needs. As you can see, we provide many services for you and your facility. Just call us and let us know what we can do for you.
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