Rotary International’s motto is “Service above Self.” While Jeff Ellison may not be a Rotarian, he has put that motto into practice for over thirty years of service to this Section. There is no way I can even come close to describing what Jeff has meant to this Section, but I will say that many of the PGA leadership have recognized Jeff’s talent and dedication. Jeff is often described as being one of the Best Section leaders in the PGA of America. Jeff will add some departing comments later in the newsletter.
I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Jeff and the Section staff for helping Frank Talarico begin his transition into his role as our new CEO. I encourage all of you to take the time to reach out to Frank at [email protected] and welcome him into the Section.
We had a lot going on in August as we continue our events. Please make sure you congratulate some of our winners:
- PGA Professional Chris Griffin, along with Sponsor Team from DCS with amateurs Gary Sherrell, Colt Sherrell, Nathan Cogswell, and Sean Langham, won the Muckleshoot Casino Pro-AM. Low round for the PGA Professionals went to host professional Greg Manley and David Brown of Arrowhead with a round of 67. This was a great event that also raised $50, 000 for the Folds of Honor.
- Colin Inglis of Shadow Hills won the 94th Muckleshoot Casino Washington Open by one stroke over Birk Nelson of Orange Whip.
- Shane Prante of The Home Course won the National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship at Bear Creek. Second place went to Colin Inglis, fresh off his Washington Open win. Finishing in third was Brady Sharp of Wine Valley GC. Brady also is a recent winner of the Oregon Open. All of these professionals will represent us at the 44th National Car Rentals Assistant PGA Championship in Florida in November. Good Luck gents, and play well.
- Amateur Nathan Cogswell of Meridian Valley CC continued his winning ways with a victory in the Northwest Open at Walla Walla. The low Professional, one stroke behind Nathan was David Phay of Whidbey G&CC
Here are some things to get signed up for:
- Pacific Golf &Turf Pro-Amateur Championship (limited spaces left).
- Senior Oregon Championship rescheduled for October 20-21 at Wildhorse.
Elections are coming soon. Look to your Chapters for more information. We will hold our Merchandise Show and our Section Meeting virtually on October 20-21. Look for more details to follow.
Lastly, we lost a 22-year member, Bill Ross, in August; please hold Bill and his family in your thoughts.
Please stay safe and look for our new CEO report on September 15.
Howie Pruitt, PGA
Director, Golf Operations, Aspen Lakes GC
President, Pacific Northwest Section
[email protected]