Greetings Golf Professionals,
Welcome to February! I trust you’re savoring the winter months, whether basking in warmth or taking a well-deserved break to gear up for the upcoming season.
Recently, I participated in an officer call with our Section Officer Corps. The Pacific Northwest Section’s leadership is tirelessly working on various projects. Howie Pruitt’s updates on his role with the Board of Control and National Committee are enlightening. John Grothe’s efforts towards Section awards are commendable, and I’m eagerly anticipating the awards presentation at Tacoma C&GC on March 17. I hope to see you there – RSVP here. Thank you to John, Denise, and the Section staff for their exceptional efforts.
I’ve been collaborating with a strategic planning committee to craft a new section strategic plan aligned with the National Northstar plan and its four pillars. Our aim is to complete this plan by the spring meeting, setting the course for the next 5 to 10 years. We have amazing leadership involved at all levels of section and chapter governance and staff.
As officers, we’ll be at the Super Regionals in Houston, Texas, in just over a week, where we’ll meet the national secretary candidates. Next month, Frank and I will share our progress, and by spring, we will know whom we’ll be supporting in the upcoming election. This is always a rewarding and educational process as a PGA Professional.
We recently received an update on the FREDDY Initiative 2024 from Bryan Tunstill. The FREDDY Initiative, established in 2020 to honor the legacy of PGA Golf Professional Sean K. “Freddy” Fredrickson, aims to provide special internship opportunities in the golf industry for individuals interested in golf. Founded by Sean’s surviving spouse, April Upchurch Fredrickson, through The Fredrickson Family Memorial Foundation, Inc., the initiative focuses on offering underprivileged youth and young adults a chance to gain experience in the golf industry at green grass facilities. Eligible candidates will be mentored by PGA Professionals, with the internship running seasonally from June to September. The initiative is committed to diversity and inclusivity, and FAQ’s address aspects such as the application process, compensation, safety protocols, and oversight by the foundation’s Board of Directors. The goal is to provide a well-rounded experience for participants at each club involved.
You have an exciting opportunity to take part by sponsoring an intern in 2024. Please fill out an application when they become available this spring, and support this incredible initiative and be an integral part in the mentorship of individuals who otherwise might not have the opportunity to get into this business and game that we love.
Thank you to our chapter leadership for all their hard work in preparation for the upcoming season. Our President’s call recently was wonderful. The progress your Chapter ED’s and leadership are making through a challenging winter is no less than superb. It will be an amazing year in all five chapters.
In my own facility, I’m immersed in strategic planning, recognizing that challenging times forge strength. Here’s to forward thinking and navigating the exciting times ahead!
Have a great month!