Aloha! I am writing this month’s article from Hawaii, where my wife, Pam and I are celebrating our honeymoon!
My first order of business is to apologize to Marlena and Frank for delaying this edition of the ForeWord Press. In all my fun, I spaced it until the absolute final hour. We have an amazing staff at our Section office. They work extremely hard on our behalf, and they work for us when we need them most.
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the Oregon Chapter Board virtual meeting. It was a pleasure hearing their “why” and the deliverables desired for success. The officers and board work hard for their members in this Chapter. I am impressed by all of our Chapter leadership, their support of each other, and their efficient execution of governance for the professional. Our Chapters do a wonderful job. Our tournament programs across the five Chapters – charitable outreach, professional recognition through our awards programs, grant programs for our pros and their programs at their facilities, and so much more – make us the best of the best in our Association. Last fall, I attended the Inland Chapter general meeting as part of the secretary election process and witnessed the same professional member support and exceptional leadership through a season of challenges.
As happens monthly, the Chapter presidents, Frank and I met virtually following our Section officer’s call. It was great to hear about the upcoming tournament seasons and preparations they are making for the coming golf season. Even as a bitter cold snap was settling in to the PNW, I could feel that spring is coming. Please reach out to your Chapter president and share your thoughts and take the time to thank them for their dedication.
Recently, I received the application for the Section Yamaha Player Development Grants. Make sure to get yours filled out and submitted for your player development program at your facility. I also encourage you to forward the nice email about Drive, Chip, and Putt to your families at your facility. Congrats to all the Pros who were certified as PGA HOPE instructors. The HOPE program is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done as a PGA Professional. Best of luck with your programs this year. I see signups are starting for PGA Junior League. Don’t delay in getting your program set up for the season. Lastly, I hope you will consider hosting a PGA JAM program this year. Golf is more than just a game. Use this program to make future leaders, community heroes, and maybe a future PGA Professional.
Have a great month! Next month, we will all be busy with the game and business we love.