Annual Meeting
Agenda and Materials
Cherokee Town & Country Club Atlanta, GA January 19, 2013 9:00 a.m.
GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEETING
CHEROKEE TOWN CLUB ATLANTA, GEORGIA
SATURDAY, JANUARY 19, 2013
This document should be kept as a record of the proceedings. Minutes of the business session will be recorded and distributed to the Board of Directors.
9:00 a.m. – BUSINESS SESSION AGENDA
I. Call to Order – President Greg Butterfield
II. Roll Call – Secretary Bill Blalock
III. Minutes – Secretary Bill Blalock Page 5
IV. Reports of Officers
A. President Greg Butterfield Page 17 Membership Activities Action Item: Call for approval of new Affiliate Club category B. President-Elect Chuck Palmer Page 19 Georgia Golf Hall of Fame C. Secretary/Treasurer Bill Blalock Page 20 Finance Committee Proposed 2013 Budget Action Item: Call for approval of 2013 budget
V. Reports of Vice Presidents
A. Vice President Dave Ballard Page 23 Handicap/Information Technology Activities B. Vice President Belinda Marsh Page 24 Communication and Website Activities
1 C. Vice President Lee Cassady Page 26 Rules and Competitions Activities D. Vice President Jim Coleman Page 31 Course Rating & Measuring Activities
E. Vice President Carey Brown Page 32 GSGA Private Benefit Network
VI. Report of GSGA Foundation President Mark Esoda Page 33 VII. Report of Executive Director Matt Hooper Page 36 VIII. Report of Immediate Past President Chris Cupit Page 37 Report of Nominating Committee Action Item: Call for approval of 2013 slate of Officers, Executive Committee and Board of Directors
IX. Transfer of Leadership
A. Outgoing President Greg Butterfield makes remarks then introduces 2013 President Chuck Palmer B. President Palmer remarks
X. Recognitions
A. President Palmer recognizes new Executive Committee member David Burke. B. President Palmer announces three new Board members Charlie Anderson, Bill Bayfield and Jodie Shepard. C. President Palmer recognizes outgoing Executive Committee members Bill Blalock, Greg Butterfield and Chris Cupit and retiring Board member Bryan Persons.
XI. Presentation of Bill Todd Award – Committee Chair Chris Cupit Page 40 A. Cupit makes remarks and makes presentation to Bill Todd Award winner. B. Remarks by Bill Todd Award winner.
XII. Old Business – President Palmer
XIII. New Business – President Palmer
XIV. Adjourn Business Session – President Palmer
2
10:30 a.m. – INFORMATION SESSION Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow: The Evolution of the GSGA
The GSGA is proud of a rich heritage that began in 1916 when 14-year-old Bobby Jones won the first Georgia Amateur Championship at the Capital City Club in Brookhaven. There have been many important milestones along the way as the Association expanded its mission beyond championships to include service to Georgia golf clubs, supporting all of the golfers of our state.
The educational session of the 2013 Annual Meeting will first be a look to the past. We will remember the work of the Association and the people who have served on behalf of the game in our state. We will then turn our attention to the future as GSGA's new Executive Director Matt Hooper shares his vision for the Association for 2013 and beyond.
12:00 Noon – PLAYERS OF THE YEAR AWARDS LUNCHEON
I. Welcome – President Chuck Palmer
II. Invocation
III. Recognition of Allied Association Representatives, Media & Guests – Matt Hooper
IV. Luncheon
V. Recognition of 2012 GSGA State Team Players, Champions and Players of the Year
• Sissi Gann – Chair, Women’s Tournament Committee
• Lee Cassady – Chair, Championship Committee
• C. Layne Williams – Senior Director, Rules & Competitions
VI. Presentation of Tommy Barnes Award
VII. Closing Remarks – President Palmer
3 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
Passing of GSGA Volunteer Family Members
During the past year, the GSGA lost two of its valued volunteer family.
Roger Cordes – Roger Cordes was a stalwart as a GSGA rules official, scoreboard operator, course rater and committee member. In 2003, he was presented the Bill Todd Award, for service and stewardship as a GSGA volunteer, in the name of one of the people who helped recruit him in 1985 after he retired from a career as a landscape engineer. Roger was an avid golfer, shot his age many times later in life, and played as he answered rules questions, very much in strict accordance with the traditions of our grand game.
Linda Meltz – In the 1980s, Linda Meltz was one of the first few women to serve as a volunteer for the Georgia State Golf Association. In 1989, Meltz was appointed chair of the newly-formed Women’s Tournament Committee and worked to provide competitive opportunities for women of all ages. After serving as a GSGA director for 10 years, she became a senior director and continued to support women’s golf as a key service of the GSGA. At the time of her death, she continued that support as a director emeritus.
Linda Meltz served as captain of three Georgia Women’s Teams that competed in the Georgia-Florida Team Match. She led the teams to victory in 1999, 2000 and 2001. Meltz was a past president and honorary life member of the Georgia Women’s Golf Association.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 1
4 Georgia State Golf Association Annual Meeting Cherokee Town Club Atlanta, Georgia January 21, 2012
MINUTES
PRESENT ABSENT Greg Butterfield, President Don Heilman Andy Bargeron Ray Haas Ron Abadie Nancy Henning Ed Barnes Neill Hatcher Dave Ballard Wes Hudson Kim Beach E. George Johnson William Blalock Jim Ingram Jim Blose G. Alan Katz Dr. Bob Bowen G. Charles Kennedy Arnold Blum Ann Kirk Carey Brown Seth L. Knight, III Jim Broadwell Jim Knerr David Burke Linda Lee William Brown John Marshall Carole Cavanaugh Debby Lichtman Lee Cassady Grover Maxwell Laura Coble Belinda Marsh John Companiotte Caryl Paller Jim Coleman Don Marsh Roger Cordes Bryan Persons Glenn Cornell Gene McClure Peter Crosby Billy Peters Wendell Couch William Oliver Mike Downes Ken Phillips Bill Cowles Ray Orrie Tom Duke Franco Reever Pete Cox Chuck Palmer John Ellis John D. Reynolds, III Carol Ann Crosby Betty Rich Joe Estes Dennis Terry Chris Cupit Becky Royer Merilee Giddings Wayne Thomas Mark Esoda Spencer Sappington John Glenn Claire Thompson Kurt Faxon Karen Sellick Olivia Flanagan Everett Stowe Robert Fowler Ed Sweeney Sissi Gann Clyde Taylor Richard Gerakitis, Counsel Dave Turner Richard Gillespie W. Richard Wilson STAFF STAFF Richard Adams Michelle Loggins Jeff Fages, Director, R&C Julie Bradley Jerri Smith Joanna Capo Linda Sommers Holly Burk Clark Jason Taylor Kim Cox Mike Waldron Stacy Easley C. Layne Williams Martha Kirouac
5 GSGA Annual Meeting January 21, 2012 Page 2
President Greg Butterfield called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and welcomed the audience to the GSGA annual meeting for 2012.
President Butterfield called on Secretary/Treasurer William Blalock for the roll call. Mr. Blalock stated that appropriate notice of this meeting had been given and a quorum of directors was present and entitled to vote. Mr. Blalock stated that the meeting had been properly called and convened.
Mr. Butterfield declared the meeting to order for the transaction of business and called on Mr. Blalock, Secretary/Treasurer, to present the minutes of the last Annual Meeting of the Association. Mr. Blalock stated that the minutes of the meeting of January 22, 2011, had been furnished to all directors. Mr. Butterfield asked for a motion to waive the reading of the minutes and approve them as submitted. The motion was made, seconded and passed unanimously.
A moment of silence was observed in remembrance of GSGA volunteers lost during the past year.
President’s Report: Greg Butterfield
. Georgia Allied Golf Council: The Georgia Allied Golf Council continues as a collaborative effort of the GSGA, Georgia Section PGA, Georgia Golf Course Superintendents Association, Georgia Chapter Club Managers Association of America and Georgia Golf Course Owners Association, whose primary focus is to monitor legislation and state agency activity that may affect the golf industry. The presidents and presidents-elect or vice presidents and the executive directors of each organization are invited to participate in meetings as called. The Council retains the services of GeorgiaLink, a public relations and lobby firm, to represent GSGA interests. The Council hosted Golf Day on March 8, 2011, at the State Capitol to promote the golf industry as a viable business interest in the state. Two national figures, PGA of America CEO Joe Steranka and World Golf Foundation CEO Steve Mona were on hand. They joined Governor Nathan Deal and Mike Waldron in a press conference in the Capitol Rotunda. The GSGA is represented on the Council by Chris Cupit, Glenn Cornell, Chuck Palmer, Mike Waldron and Greg Butterfield.
. Georgia Section PGA Committee: The GSGA and the Georgia Section PGA continue to work together on issues that help grow our game in the state. Patrick Richardson of Wilmington Island Club in Savannah is the president of the Georgia PGA, Brian Stubbs of Country Club of Columbus is the vice president and Mark Mongell of Cherokee Town and Country Club in Atlanta is the secretary.
The Georgia PGA completed the process of re-naming the Georgia Junior Golf Foundation the Georgia PGA Foundation. By-laws of the new Foundation insure that representation from the GSGA will continue, and GSGA Board member Ray Haas is the current GSGA member of the new Foundation Board of Trustees.
6 GSGA Annual Meeting January 21, 2012 Page 3
The most recent contractual arrangement between the GSGA and Georgia PGA includes provisions that GSGA funds are to be used primarily for the Foundation’s junior golf and initiatives to grow the game.
. Georgia Golf Course Superintendents Association Committee: The GSGA and GGCSA continue to enjoy a good working relationship. There are several areas where the two organizations collaborate on activities for the benefit of each other.
The GSGA annually offers the use of its headquarters conference room to the GGCSA for one of its quarterly Board of Directors meetings. Each issue of Golf Georgia magazine features an article called Super Says, written by a GGCSA member about everyday golf course maintenance issues for our individual members to better understand how their respective courses are conditioned.
The GGCSA and its members assist the GSGA Foundation with the interview process for the Moncrief Scholarships at the University of Georgia and ABAC. Mark Esoda of Atlanta Country Club in Marietta represents GGCSA as a Trustee and the Vice President of the GSGA Foundation. The GGCSA provides some funding to the GSGAF for the Moncrief Scholarships.
The GGCSA’s Foundation, the Georgia Golf Environmental Foundation (GGEF), operates to communicate the message of the golf course superintendent, provides funding for turfgrass research and offers educational opportunities to superintendents. GSGA executive director Mike Waldron is a past chairman of this Foundation. The GSGA provides some funding to this Foundation, continuing a tradition of contributions to turfgrass-related activities that began in 1959. Craig Ketelsen, CGCS, of Orchard Hills Golf Club in Newnan, is the president of GGCSA and the vice president is Mike Brown, GCS, of The Standard Club in Johns Creek. Tenia Workman is the executive director, with offices in Hartwell.
. Georgia Chapter, Club Managers Association of America Committee: The GSGA and GC, CMAA for the 24th consecutive year jointly hosted Club Officers’ Day on April 25, 2011, at Capital City Club’s Brookhaven Club in Atlanta. Joe Steranka, chief executive officer of the PGA of America, spoke to the attendees about the PGA’s new Golf 2.0 plan for the future. The 25th annual 2012 Club Officers’ Day will be held on Monday, April 23 at The Standard Club in Johns Creek. The guest speaker for the meeting will be Brad Steele, vice president for government relations for the National Club Association. The GSGA also supported the GC, CMAA’s Peach Classic fund raising outing in September at Dunwoody Country Club. Joe Krenn of Cherokee Town and Country Club in Atlanta is the president of the Georgia Chapter, CMAA and the vice president is Chris Clark of Atlanta Athletic Club in Johns Creek.
. Georgia Golf Course Owners Association Committee: The GGCOA represents owners of golf clubs and courses in the state and provides services, purchasing discount opportunities and networking for its members. It is a chapter of the National Golf Course Owners Association and
7 GSGA Annual Meeting January 21, 2012 Page 4
is one of the members of the Georgia Allied Golf Council. This organization is particularly interested in opportunities to help them increase their businesses. The GSGA will utilize this group as it works to grow its membership and will continue to seek ways to help each other’s progress in 2012. The GSGA has been working with the owners association on a tee time reservation system that we hope will have some membership growth opportunities for GSGA. Joe Guerra of Sequoia Golf is the president of Georgia GCOA.
. Volunteer Golf Outing: The annual Volunteer Golf Outing was held in October at The Brickyard at Riverside in Macon.
. Membership Activities: Butterfield thanked 2010-2011 Membership Committee chair Clyde Taylor for service on the Membership Committee and introduced 2012 Membership Chair Jim Ingram. The online membership program continues to be an important recruiting tool with many clubs using it in 2012 to handle the renewal process. The program is currently being automated in order to better serve our members clubs and individual members. In 2011, GSGA offered a complimentary subscription to either Golf Digest or Gold World magazine; this benefit was well received. Going forward, this offer will be promoted to the membership once a year allowing new members to be added to the subscription roles and current subscribers to change from one magazine to the other. There were also enhancements to the Travel Links program offered through the website and in 2012, GSGA will promote its first travel opportunity with a golf outing scheduled for the Hammock Beach Resort in Florida. Also new in 2011, GSGA joined with two automobile dealerships, Heyward Allen (Toyota and General Motors in Athens) and Jim Ellis Dealerships in Atlanta, to offer preferred pricing to the GSGA members.
• The economic problems facing the golf industry continue to impact GSGA’s ability to collect dues from some clubs but we ended 2011 with one more member club than we had in January. Following is the activity for 2011:
Clubs deleted from Membership: Associate: The Swing Factory – non-payment Military: Golfers Club at Fort McPherson - closed Private: Town & Country Club – no members Public: Indian Trace Golf Course – no members Quitman Country Club – no members Red Oak Golf Club – no members Tunnel Hill Golf Course – no members Semi-Private: Indian Creek Golf Club – closed Ironwood Golf Club – closed Long Shadow Golf Club – closed Plantation Golf Club – closed
8 GSGA Annual Meeting January 21, 2012 Page 5
Applications for GSGA membership were approved for the following clubs in 2011:
Associate: National Christian Golfers Association, Snellville Private: Battlefield Country Club, Ringgold (rejoined) Currahee Club, Toccoa (rejoined) Dawson Country Club (rejoined) Public: Fairways of Canton (rejoined) Four Seasons Golf Club, Wrens Valley Pines Golf Club, Cairo (rejoined) Wolf Creek Golf Club, Americus (rejoined) Semi-Private: Canyon Ridge Golf Club, Rising Fawn (rejoined) Ironwood Golf Club, Cordele (rejoined; club now closed) Sapelo Hammock, Shellman Bluff (rejoined) Uchee Trail Golf Club, Cochran (rejoined)
Membership Summary:
Member Club Category 1/1/2010 1/1/2011 1/1/2012 Associate 20 22 22 Military 6 6 5 Private 137 128 126 Public 88 83 83 Semi-Private 100 101 105
*Total Member Clubs 351 340 341
*Category totals have been adjusted to reflect changes reported annually by some member clubs.
The number of individual GSGA members for 2011 declined 3.6% closing the year down about 2800 members.
9 GSGA Annual Meeting January 21, 2012 Page 6
. The exciting news for 2012 is the addition of a schedule of member play days that are open to GSGA members. There were three events held in the fall of 2011 and the non- competitive format was very well received. Following is the tentative schedule of events for 2012:
CLUB DATE CLUB DATE Brickyard at Riverside, Macon 3/27 Echelon Golf Club, Alpharetta 7/31 Heritage Golf Links, Tucker 4/4 The Club at River Forest, Forsyth 8/7 Governors Towne Club, Acworth 4/22 The Manor G&CC, Alpharetta 8/21 Rivermont G&CC, Johns Creek 5/8 Eagle's Landing CC, Stockbridge 9/20 Canongate at GA National, Alpharetta Athletic Club-West, McDonough 5/16 Milton 10/14 Legacy on Lanier, Lake Lanier Islands 6/5 Golf Club of Georgia, Alpharetta TBD Canongate-on-Mirror Lake, Villa Rica 7/17
The membership department will continue to seek ways to recruit the public golfer. By enhancing the benefits that are available to GSGA members it is hoped that those golfers who do not value a USGA Handicap Index will find sufficient value in the membership to want to join the GSGA.
President-Elect Chuck Palmer Georgia Golf Hall of Fame Mr. Palmer reported that the Hall of Fame Induction Banquet held in January 2011 at the Atlanta Athletic Club was very successful and was almost sold out. The 2012 banquet is again on the same day as the annual meeting and will induct four new Hall members: Richard Crawford, Vicki Goetze-Ackerman, the late Alfred “Tup” Holmes and Gene Sauers. There were several committees created during 2011 to help with the Hall of Fame process and governance. These committees will meet within the next month or so to review this year’s banquet and to consider future banquets from a financial, public relations and historical perspective.
Treasurer’s Report: Mr. Bill Blalock The Association is in good shape financially and finished 2011 with $1,157,221 (unreconciled) in cash and cash equivalents.
. The Finance Committee took the following actions during 2011: endorsed the recommendation to update the Association’s website; pending executive committee approval, funding for the PBN (Private Benefit Network) from reserve funds; and recommended no dues increase for 2012.
10 GSGA Annual Meeting January 21, 2012 Page 7
. The 2012 budget was prepared by the staff and reviewed by the Finance Committee. The Executive Committee, at its December 8, 2011, meeting, approved the budget for consideration by the Board. Since Executive Committee approval, the 2012 budget has been updated to reflect the actual 2011 year-end cash and cash equivalents, Board-approved compensation and the USGA PJ Boatwright Jr. Internship grant. A motion was made, seconded and passed unanimously to approve the 2012 budget as presented.
REPORT OF VICE PRESIDENTS
Vice President Dave Ballard Handicap and Information Technology The USGA has adopted a national revision schedule which will result in every Handicap Index being revised on the first and 15th of each month for the entire year, regardless of inactive season, which will allow for consistent updating of every index throughout the country.
. The first Handicap Certification Seminar will be Tuesday, February 28, at Wilmington Island Club in Savannah. More seminars will be conducted around the state this year covering the new 2012-2015 Handicap System Manual.
. eGolfer is a free online dashboard designed to assist golfers in organizing their golf network. This dashboard is available to all GSGA members. Current features of the eGolfer service include the ability to edit personal information for GSGA communications, a round tracking and graphing capability, local weather reports and an RSS news feed of national golf stories.
. 40 new computer systems and 18 refurbished systems were installed across the state in 2011. The IT Committee met in September and approved the purchase of 60 computer systems for 2012. A mobile application for iPhones and Androids will be released soon.
. New projects for 2012 include a mobile application for iPhones and Androids and a new GSGA website.
Vice President Bob Fowler Communications and Marketing Mr. Fowler reported that Jason Taylor joined the GSGA as Coordinator, Communications and Marketing in April 2011. Also, Directors Dick Gillespie and Everett Stowe will remain chairmen of the Communications and Website Committees, respectively in 2012. GSGA repeated the renewal initiatives in 2012 that have been accomplished in prior years, including an emailed renewal reminder in February, a second email or postcard in March, and marketing materials distributed to non-private clubs and golf centers, including retail stores and driving ranges, and finally, a September press release publicizing the online membership program.
11 GSGA Annual Meeting January 21, 2012 Page 8
. In 2011, the GSGA website averaged 19,826 unique visitors and 39,516 visits per month. Compared to previous years, our numbers showed a drop beginning in May, which coincided with the new format of the eRevision emails. The website will be undergoing a redesign in 2012, most likely with a new development company and host. The main purpose of the redesign is to upgrade many of the technical features and to integrate with the new CRM membership database.
. A large and growing part of GSGAs strategy and time is devoted toward member communication via email. In previous years, six (bimonthly) enewsletters plus one GSGA Foundation Annual Fund solicitation were sent to our general membership list (all eRevision subscribers). In 2011, we maintained those seven emails while electing to open the lines of communication even further with dedicated email blasts about important membership topics, i.e. RewardLinks offers, TravelLinks and Member Play Days. These dedicated blasts are in addition to the regular emails we send out to various subsets of membership and those who receive our services, including competitions notices to tournament players, newsletters to volunteers and member club contacts, announcements for junior golfers and GSGA Girls Program participants, notices to Hall of Fame members, etc. Additionally, the format of the handicap eRevision emails has changed. Previously, members would receive a plain text email on the 1st and 15th of the month containing a link to click to view their updated handicap index and scoring report. Starting with the May 1 revision, members now see the full report in their email without having to click an extra link. This not only saves a step for the end user, but makes the eRevision more attractive for potential sponsors.
. Advertising sales in both the enewsletters and the twice-monthly eRevision emails brought in just under $15,000 of revenue to the Association, nearly twice what was budgeted. The banner ad space was sold in all six enewsletters and 20 of the 24 eRevisions. (Note: Not all of these were sold for cash, some were for in-kind trade or other GSGA membership benefits.) Skyscraper ads were sold in five of the six newsletters and 13 eRevisions. The availability of electronic advertising also assists with print ad sales in Golf Georgia magazine.
. GSGA’s RewardLinks program expanded in 2011, maintaining relationships with its existing partners and adding five new partners in three new categories (Apparel, Automobiles and Magazines). GSGA members now receive special offers from Jos. A. Bank, Brooks Brothers, Heyward-Allen Automotive, Jim Ellis Direct, and receive a complimentary subscription to either Golf Digest or Golf World magazine. Dedicated email blasts were sent this year to inform and remind people of these member benefits. We also revamped the RewardLinks web page (www.gsga.org/rewardlinks) to more accurately display all of our current partners.
. GSGA TravelLinks Membership Benefit was launched in April 2011 with the development of a new web page (www.gsga.org/travellinks) and a monthly blast email to our general membership. Golf properties and resorts commit to providing a special offer for GSGA members in return for exposure on the website and in the email. The Robert Trent Jones Golf
12 GSGA Annual Meeting January 21, 2012 Page 9
Trail was the Featured travel partner in 2011 (May-December). While TravelLinks did not take off as quickly as we initially hoped, we started off 2012 with four travel partners in our January email blast. As it grows, we hope this will be an additional source of revenue for the Association.
Vice President Belinda Marsh Rules & Competitions Mrs. Marsh reported that 2011 was another successful year for the Rules & Competitions department.
. In 2011, 2616 competitors submitted 2165 entries in GSGA events. There were 22 GSGA Championships/Tournaments, 17 GSGA Qualifiers, 30 Junior Sectional Events and 17 USGA Qualifying Rounds, which included approximately 1200 additional players. GHIN is continuing to make improvements to the TPP Registration solution. A rules committee manual has been developed as a reference tool for volunteers.
. The GSGA purchased a plotter printer in December 2010 and a number of scoreboard templates were developed in 2011. This will allow the staff to offer scoreboard printing service in 2012 to GSGA member clubs.
. The GSGA has been notified by the USGA that it will receive a $10,000 grant to expand the Girls’ Program.
. There were three member play days held in the fall of 2011 and the events were very well received. A full schedule of member play days will be offered this year during the March through October period.
Vice President Jim Coleman Course Rating and Measuring . Course Rating Report: During 2011, 46 golf courses were rated. Additionally, over 40 clubs were issued additional or revised ratings, some of which required a visit to the club. More than 80 trained raters in four geographic areas of the state performed these ratings, requiring a total of more than 5000 volunteer hours. A half-day preview session was available at each seminar for new raters, giving them an opportunity to get a basic understanding of the rating program before attending the regular seminar. As a result of this added half-day session, it appears that the new raters are better able to grasp the system and have experienced a higher degree of success as first-year raters. Two rating teams (one men’s and one women’s) will represent GSGA at the February 2012 USGA calibration seminar in Florida. The preliminary course rating schedule for 2012 includes about 50 courses. . Course Measuring Report: A total of 23 courses were fully measured in 2011, with adjustments or additional tee corrections made at 25 other clubs.
13 GSGA Annual Meeting January 21, 2012 Page 10
Vice President Carey Brown Private Benefit Network (PBN) The GSGA is proceeding in the development of a program that could be a great benefit for our Member Clubs and their employees. While we are still a step or two away from a final approval and announcement, we expect to roll this out by the end of the first quarter of 2012. The PBN is a health insurance company that would be self-insured by the Association and would be offered to employees of GSGA Regular Member Clubs and selected other entities at a lower cost than might otherwise be available. Health coverage through a PBN includes an array of benefit options, actuarial pricing based on anticipated claims and development of a claims reserve. Claims and administrative services are supported by national third party administrators; physician access will be through pre-existing networks; there will be wellness campaigns which will offer an opportunity for meaningful reduction on claims; and stop-loss coverage is included, which reduces overall risk from unanticipated claims exposure.
The Executive Committee authorized moving forward on the appropriate research about this plan. A third party consulting firm, Health Cooperative Strategies of Marietta (HCS), which is experienced in the self-insured arena, would be our administrative company. An advisory committee of representatives of GSGA Member Clubs, including Steven Freund of The Landings Club; Tony Kelly of Atlanta Athletic Club; Joe Krenn of Cherokee Town and CC and the Georgia Chapter, CMAA; Kipp Orme of Sequoia Golf Holdings; and Stacy Webb of Forest Heights CC spent a full day providing advice and data on the idea. Upon the recommendation of GSGA counsel Richard Gerakitis, an experienced ERISA attorney, Paul Ryan of Thompson Hine LLP, has been retained to advise the Trust which will be formed to govern the PBN.
HCS has engaged an individual to work on behalf of GSGA in contacting Member Clubs about this service, once documents for the administrative Trust are filed with the Georgia Department of Insurance and approval is given to begin the plan.
The Executive Committee will continue to monitor this progress before final approval is given and an announcement will be made to clubs and the Board at that time.
Report of the GSGA Foundation: Vice President Chuck Kennedy
. The GSGA Foundation awarded 68 Yates Scholarships for the 2011-12 school year totaling $162,750 and seven Moncrief Scholarships for the 2011-12 school year totaling $13,850. These amounts represent a 17% increase in overall scholarship spending. The GSGA Foundation received two new scholarship endowment commitments in 2011; they are from the Macon Civic Club and Larry Connolly. The GSGA Foundation approved five named scholarships in 2011; they are Stuart Blandford, Roger Cordes, Billie Marcus, The Georgia Cup, and Barnsley Gardens.
14 GSGA Annual Meeting January 21, 2012 Page 11
. The GSGA Foundation’s Annual Fund was mailed on November 1 to 45,185 potential donors. An email solicitation was sent out on December 6. A few changes were made to the mailing that resulted in a savings of $4,000 in expenses. As of January 20, the Annual Fund has received $47,626 from 233 donors.
. The GSGA Foundation Board of Trustees met quarterly in 2011. The name of the organization was changed from the Georgia State Golf Foundation to the GSGA Foundation, Inc. They approved the following officers for the 2011-12 fiscal year beginning July 1, 2011: Chuck Kennedy as President, Mark Esoda as Vice President and Grover Maxwell as Secretary- Treasurer. The Board filled three openings for Trustees with Ray Cutright of Macon, Hal Greer of Macon, and Dan Reeves of Atlanta.
. The GSGA Foundation participated in the 2011 PGA Championship Community Relations Program. The 2011 PGA Championship Community Relations Committee also approved the GSGA Foundation’s application to participate in the 2011 PGA Championship Tickets for Charity Program. The Georgia Cup events were held on March 28 and 29 at The Golf Club of Georgia.
Report of General Counsel Richard Gerakitis The legal affairs of the GSGA are currently in good order. The following items were completed, among other things, in 2011:
. The name of the Georgia State Golf Foundation was changed to “GSGA Foundation, Inc.”.
. The GSGA executed renewal agreements with the USGA, granting GSGA the right and license as an authorized golf association to (1) utilize the USGA Handicap System to issue the Handicap Index to golfers through our Member Clubs and (2) the USGA Course and Slope Rating System to determine USGA Course and Slope Rating for our Member Clubs.
. The Georgia Golf Hall of Fame trademark has been officially registered through May 2021 with the U.S. Patent and Trademark office.
Report of Executive Director Mike Waldron Executive Director Mike Waldron reported on staff activities and the addition of two new Coordinator positions; Richard Adams in Rules & Competitions and Jason Taylor in Marketing & Communications. He reconfirmed that GSGA’s overall goal is to continue to provide outstanding customer service to 341 Member Clubs and more than 75,000 individual golfers at those clubs in Georgia. He reported that GSGA will develop more focused marketing and sponsorship plans during 2012.
15 GSGA Annual Meeting January 21, 2012 Page 12
Nominating Committee Report: Chris Cupit Immediate Past President Chris Cupit presented the recommendations from the Nominating Committee for the GSGA Executive Committee and Board of Directors for 2012. Mr. Cupit asked if there were any nominations from the floor. There being none, he asked for a motion to close nominations. The motion was made, seconded and passed unanimously. Next, Mr. Cupit asked for a motion to accept the nominations as presented. A motion was made, seconded and passed unanimously. Mr. Cupit thanked the members of the Nominating Committee for their hard work.
Recognitions . President Butterfield recognized new Executive Committee member Chuck Kennedy. . President Butterfield announced two new Board members: Grover Maxwell and Franco Reever. . President Butterfield recognized outgoing Executive Committee member Bob Fowler and retiring Board member Dr. Bob Bowen
Bill Todd Award President Butterfield presented the Bill Todd Award to Bill Blalock.
Adjourn There being no further business, a motion was made, seconded and passed unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 9:55 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jerrilynn Smith
Jerrilynn Smith, Director Membership & Special Projects
16 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
Member Services
• Online Membership Program: Approximately 80 clubs participated in the online membership program during 2012. Close to 1400 applications were processed through September, a 112% increase against 2011. Approximately 70% were for renewals. Applications processed beginning October 1 are good through 2013. The program was automated through the new website in October; a few bugs remain to be worked out.
• HMS Management: Early in the year, management of HMS Golf resigned GSGA membership for three clubs: BridgeMill Athletic Club, Lake Arrowhead Yacht & CC and Towne Lake Hills GC. Conversations continue with James Haslam to encourage their return to GSGA membership.
• Clubs deleted from membership during 2012 included:
Public: Augusta GC, Augusta (closed) Circlestone CC, Adel (non-payment) Valley Pines GC, Cairo (no interest)
Semi-Private: BridgeMill Athletic Club, Canton (HMS) Durham Lakes CC, Fairburn (non-payment) Greene County CC, Union Point (non-payment) Lake Arrowhead Yacht & CC, Waleska (HMS) The Lion GC, Bremen (closed) Plantation of Horseleg, Rome (closed) Towne Lake Hills GC, Woodstock (HMS)
Private: Griffin Country Club, Griffin (closed)
• Applications for GSGA membership were approved for the following clubs during 2012:
Semi-Private Ashton Hills GC, Covington (returned, formerly Indian Creek) Pine Needles CC, Ft. Valley (returned, 9 holes) Turkey Creek Estates, Fitzgerald (9 holes) Woodland Hills GC, Cartersville (returned, formerly Plantation GC)
Membership Summary;
Member Club Category 1/1/2013 1/1/2012 1/1/2011 Associate 22 22 22 Military 5 5 6 Private 124 126 128 Public 79 83 83 Semi-Private 104 105 101 *Total Member Clubs 334 341 340
*Category totals have been adjusted to reflect changes reported by some member clubs.
The number of individual GSGA members for 2012 declined 2.7% closing the year down about 2000 members.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 2
17 • A workflow was created within CRM that triggers a "welcome to GSGA" email to anyone assigned a GHIN number.
• Letters have been sent to non-member clubs whose course ratings expired during 2012. In order to be re- rated they had the option to either 1) rejoin GSGA and be re-rated as a member club; or 2) pay a $2500 fee as a non-member club to be measured and rated. Only one club responded and has paid the fee to be re- rated.
• Complimentary Golf Digest/Golf World subscriptions were again offered to GSGA members active as of June 1 at a cost of a penny per subscription.
• A short survey was emailed to individuals whose memberships were inactivated during the period 2009 and 2011 and had not been renewed by early spring 2012 (about 21,000 email addresses). Over 50% of the respondents indicated they had not renewed their membership because they had either 1) moved, 2) were not playing golf anymore or 3) for a medical reason. Another 11% said they intended to renew. We were very pleased with the responses. It did identify that there is confusion about what GSGA means by “home” club.
• New Affiliate Club Category Proposal: A need has been identified for another category of GSGA membership to ensure a club's ability to enroll in the PBN and cover staff associated with all its business entities. At its September 2012 meeting, the executive committee voted to propose this change to the GSGA Board of Directors for vote at the 2013 annual meeting. If approved, an Affiliate club would be entitled to all non-golf- related benefits as regular clubs and would be subject to a 100-member minimum to participate in the PBN. The proposed member club category language follows. ACTION REQUIRED
“An “Affiliate Club” shall be a club which is organized or operated as another type of athletic or social club, is not located at a golf facility, and which has a direct business affiliation with a Regular Member Club. Affiliate Clubs are entitled to all non-golf-related benefits as would be available to Regular Clubs. Affiliate Clubs are eligible for application for membership as an Associate Club.”
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 2 of 2
18 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
Georgia Golf Hall of Fame
• The Hall of Fame committees met in March and April of 2012 and selected the Class of 2013 Inductees: Laura Coble of Augusta; John B. “Sonny” Ellis of Atlanta; Lowell Fritz of Dalton; and the late Albert J. “Duck” Swann of Macon. The Induction Ceremony and Banquet is scheduled for January 19, 2013 at Atlanta Athletic Club.
• Several beneficial operational changes in preparation for the 2013 Induction Ceremony and Banquet were undertaken, including bidding out for a new company to produce the inductee videos, Mike Tank Productions of Atlanta; the development of a new Hall of Fame award in conjunction with a new vendor, Heritage Charity Auctions of Cumming; and a new company was chosen for the Hall of Fame blazers, Sewell Clothing of Bremen. Each of these changes resulted in lower expenses for the same or better quality.
• Invitations to the 2013 Induction Ceremony and Banquet went out in early November, some three weeks earlier than in previous years. They were for the most part sent digitally, with a few paper invitations having been sent to Hall of Fame members and selected others with whom the GSGA does not have e- mail communication. This year, extra effort was made to engage the Member Clubs of the inductees and other clubs that had previously supported the event, and to encourage those clubs who were so inclined to forward the invitation digitally to their members.
• After one month, the number of individual reservations, combined with the support of our allied association sponsors, had reached the original projected limit of 400 seats and the online registration link was removed from the GSGA and Hall of Fame web sites. It is expected that approximately 420 supporters of the inductees and the Hall of Fame will be in attendance, with a waiting list of 10-20 likely unable to obtain seats. Included is a record number of 31 Hall of Fame members.
• Additionally, a Members Dinner is planned again for the Hall of Fame members and representatives of the GSGA’s allied association partners on Friday, January 18. This is an exclusive gathering that allows the current members to welcome the new inductees into their new club and to enjoy a casual evening of friendship and camaraderie.
• There are plans for a fund-raising event in September at Sea Island to benefit the Hall of Fame. Details will be forthcoming and it will be open to men and women of all skill levels who are members of clubs.
• The Hall of Fame Committee and staff will also be participating in the GSGA’s strategic planning process in 2013 with information to be provided soon about what is in store.
• GSGA Board members and volunteers are encouraged to submit nominations for potential Hall of Fame members by accessing the Hall of Fame website at www.gghof.com and completing the form. The deadline for consideration for candidates for the next induction class is March 1, 2013.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 1
19 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
Finance and Operations
FINANCE COMMITTEE (2012)
The Finance Committee is charged with the oversight of GSGA’s financial health. The committee met two times in 2012 and considered the following issues:
• Recommended no dues increase for 2013. • Reinstituted policy of assessing finance charges on delinquent accounts for 2013. • Recommended that Member club dues be current in order to host a GSGA event. • Recommended that Member club’s accounts be current before paying costs associated with event.
2012 YEAR-END
GSGA finished 2012 with $1,341,000 (unreconciled) in cash and cash equivalents.
ACTION ITEM: 2013 BUDGET
The 2013 budget (attached) was prepared by the staff and reviewed by the Finance Committee. The Executive Committee, at its December 6th meeting, approved the budget for consideration by the full Board.
Since the Executive Committee’s approval, the 2012 budget has been updated to reflect the actual 2012 year- end cash and cash equivalents, approved 2013 compensation and the increase in Rules and Competitions income.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 1
20 21 22 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
Handicapping/Information Technology
• 2013 Handicap Certification Seminar Schedule
Doublegate Country Club, Albany Tuesday, February 12 Eagle’s Landing Country Club, Stockbridge Tuesday, February 19 Indian Hills Country Club, Marietta Tuesday, February 26
Open to club employees, handicap chairmen and club members. Registration is available online at www.gsga.org. Go to Resource Center at the bottom of the home page. Click on the 2013 Handicap Certification Seminar Registration form.
• 2012 USGA Handicap Compliance Audit Sea Island Golf Club was part of the USGA golf club audit program last year. The club is in compliance with the USGA Handicap System.
• GHIN Survey We had 29 clubs respond to the survey. All clubs that replied are either very satisfied or satisfied with the support and accessibility of the GSGA staff supporting GHIN. This survey was mailed by GHIN and also sent out by GSGA via e-mail to our club contacts.
• GHIN Software Upgrades 5 clubs are using the new GHIN Online Handicap Program: White Columns CC, Atlanta National GC, West Lake CC, Collins Hill GC and Berkeley Hills CC. Conversions will be ongoing through 2014. This secure site allows membership maintenance to be performed at any computer with an internet connection by club employees and handicap chairmen.
• Computers for Clubs We installed 36 new or refurbished computer systems in 2012. This program continues to be highly regarded by our member clubs.
• Website The new GSGA website was launched on October 3 and included the new automated Join GSGA Online development. Members can now join the GSGA online at one of approximately 80 participating clubs. The new MyGSGA Dashboard for GSGA members will launch any day now. The dashboard will include special functionality if the member logs in and is validated as a volunteer of the GSGA.
Website development will continue throughout 2013 with the next priority being a customized tournament registration system.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 1
23 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
Communications and Marketing Department
• Business Development: A staff movement and volunteer committee spearheaded the launch of GSGA’s Business Development program in 2012. The Communications department now works closely with Shannon Bower, Director of Business Development. We developed an initial promotional media kit and ongoing work continues on managing the schedule for client deliverables and, most importantly, executing those deliverables.
• Committee Activity: Magazine Advisory Committee met in August to plan the 2013 Golf Georgia editorial calendar. Website Committee met twice in 2012 during the website redesign process. Communications Committee did not meet in 2012.
• Electronic Communication: Frequency of email communication to our membership grew in 2012 and will continue to expand in 2013 with a new email vendor, introduction of dedicated emails for business partners and a movement towards fewer printed pieces. We added a new service in 2012 of a regular schedule of Member Play Days alerts. The following are the types of membership emails we send out on a regular basis: o Handicap Revision emails including mini-newsletter (twice monthly) o Membership newsletters (bi-monthly) o GSGA Foundation Annual Fund solicitation o TravelLinks (monthly) o Competitions Entry Period Alerts (two per competition) o Member Play Days Entry Period Alerts (two per event) o Membership renewal reminders o Junior Sectional/Girls Program/other Junior activities notices o Dedicated emails as appropriate (i.e. RewardLinks, surveys, etc.) o Event Invitations (i.e. Annual Meeting, Hall of Fame) o Club/Volunteer newsletters
• Georgia Golf Hall of Fame: In 2012, the Communications department continued to work closely on the following Hall of Fame projects: o Publicity o Nomination process o Printed invitation and electronic invitations for induction ceremony o Video shoots and photo archiving/retrieval for inductee documentaries o Design and editing of banquet program o Maintainance of www.gghof.com website o Photo/video logistics of induction ceremony
• Golf Georgia Magazine: Communications director Joanna Capo continues to serve as executive editor, working closely with editor Stan Awtrey and publisher Shannon Bower. The digital edition of the magazine continues to be available on www.gsga.org and www.gsgafoundation.org, with the new issue being posted about a week before members/clubs receive the print edition.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 2
24 • Membership Recruitment/Renewal: The following membership recruitment/renewal initiatives were carried out in 2012: o Renewal reminder email sent mid-February to all members of non-private clubs. New in 2012, the email included a list of clubs participating in online renewals. o Second reminder email or postcard (for those without email addresses) was sent to all members who were inactive as of March 1 revision. o Press release promoting GSGA’s online memberships was distributed to statewide media in the spring. o GSGA marketing materials (posters, rack cards) were distributed to non-private clubs in the spring.
• Publications/Collateral Material: Communications department created or redesigned several GSGA promotional pieces in 2012, including the following: o GSGA Competitions posters o Member Play Days poster o Private Benefit Network flyer o GSGA Foundation brochure o Junior Sectional Schedule flyers o Business Development media kit o Membership rack card o Scoreboard Services brochure
• Social Media: GSGA and the GSGA Foundation continue to enhance their social media presence by maintaining pages on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube. Visit the GSGA website for direct links to these pages. GSGA’s 19th Hole, our blog site, is available at gsga.wordpress.com and updated regularly by all of the GSGA staff.
• Website: New GSGA website launched October 1. Communications department remains the main point of contact for content updates to the site, while at the same time continuing to work with the IT department on additional phases of development.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 2 of 2
25 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
Rules & Competitions
2012 Review • The Rules and Competitions Department had a successful 2012, with a 13% increase in participation over 2011. The biggest factors contributing to the increase were a 43% increase in the Mid-Amateur Championship and the addition of the Senior Match Play Championship. • In addition to the entries we accepted at our 22 GSGA Championships, we also conducted 17 USGA Qualifiers, which included 1300 competitors, 30 Junior Sectional Events and numerous Girls Program activities. The dedicated GSGA volunteer core played a vital role in assisting the staff in successfully providing numerous opportunities across the state for GSGA member participation. • The GSGA launched its first complete Member Play Day season in 2012 with 14 events. Participation ranged from 13 to 84 participants, averaging 45 players per event. Private clubs, particularly north of Atlanta saw the larger levels of participation.
Looking Ahead in 2013 • New Playing Opportunities 1. All 2012 GSGA and USGA Competitions will remain on the competitions calendar 2. The Member Play Day calendar will offer 25 events, including an expansion into Coastal Georgia 3. New competitions will be added to the calendar that will include playing opportunities for members of all handicap ranges. These events will be one day mixed couple and parent/child competitions. Dates, sites and formats will be released at a later time. • Rules and Competitions Branding 1. The staff will be developing a branding plan for all GSGA competitions, Member Play Days and other activities 2. The plan will include a standard guide that maximizes GSGA’s exposure while conducting activities at our member clubs 3. The execution of the plan will heighten both the member and member club experience. Bring more brand awareness to both members and non-members. • Volunteer Training 1. The staff will be providing 4-5 mandatory volunteer training sessions that will provide for better consistency at all GSGA competitions and qualifiers. 2. The training sessions will be a valuable part of new tiered certification program that will recognize our most accomplished rules volunteers and provide a stepping stone for everyone wishing to volunteer within the rules and competitions department, so they can reach their fullest potential.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 5
26 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
2013 Member Play Day Schedule
The Brickyard at Riverside, Tues., Mar. 19 Echelon GC, Tues., July 16 Macon 12:00 p.m. Alpharetta 9:00 a.m. Rivermont G & CC, Tues., Apr. 2 Brookstone G&CC, Mon., July 22 Johns Creek 12:00 p.m. Acworth 9:00 a.m. Polo G&CC, Mon., Apr. 8 Newnan CC Mon., July 29 Cumming 12:00 p.m. Newnan (84 max.) 9:00 a.m. Savannah Quarters, Tues., Apr. 9 Barnsley Gardens, Mon., Aug. 5 Savannah 1:00 p.m Adairsville 8:30 a.m. Laurel Springs GC, Mon., Apr. 29 Chateau Elan GC, Wed., Aug. 14 Suwanee 10:00 a.m. Braselton 9:00 a.m. Achasta GC, Mon., May 6 The Manor G&CC, Tues., Aug. 27 Dahlonega 10:00 a.m. Alpharetta 9:00 a.m. Alpharetta Athletic Club - Wed., May 15 Smoke Rise G&CC, Tues., Sept. 10 East, Milton 9:00 a.m. Stone Mountain 11:00 a.m.
Wilmington Island Club, Wed., May 22 The Club at Savannah Tues., Sept 17 Savannah 9:00 a.m. Harbor, Savannah 9:00 a.m. Canongate at Heron Bay, Wed., May 29 Eagle's Landing CC, Mon., Sept 23 Locust Grove 9:00 a.m. Stockbridge 11:00 a.m. Willow Lake GC, Tues., June 4 SummerGrove GC, Tues., Oct. 1 Metter 10:00 a.m. Newnan 9:00 a.m. Northwood CC, Mon., June 17 Forest Heights CC, Thurs., Oct. 3 Lawrenceville 9:00 a.m. Statesboro (84 max.) 12:00 p.m. Indian Hills CC, Mon., July 1 Great Waters at Reynolds Mon., Oct. 28 Marietta 9:00 a.m. Plantation 11:00 a.m.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 2 of 5
27 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
2013 Site List
Championship/Team Event 2013 Site Dates Doublegate CC and Four-Ball Tournament Stonebridge G & CC, Albany Mar. 22-24 Piedmont Driving Club, Super Senior Championship Atlanta Apr. 2-3 Champions Retreat GC, Four-Ball Championship Evans Apr. 26-28 Senior Match Play White Columns CC, Championship Alpharetta May 8-11
Mid-Amateur Championship Savannah GC May 17-19
Mid-Amateur Qualifying Apr. 1-22 Canongate @ Sun City Atlanta South Peachtree, Griffin Apr. 1
Southeast Savannah GC Apr. 8 Berkeley Hills CC, Atlanta North Duluth Apr. 8 Brickyard at Riverside, Middle Macon Apr. 15
Northeast Monroe G & CC Apr. 15
West Country Club of Columbus Apr. 18 Senior Women's Match Play Sunset Hills CC, Championship Carrollton May 20-22 Women's Match Play The Legends at Chateau Elan, Championship Braselton June 2-5 The Farm, Junior Championship Rocky Face June 17-19 Atlanta Athletic Club, Girls' Championship Johns Creek June 17-19 Green Island CC, Top 60 Women's Classic Columbus June 26-27 Pinetree CC, Amateur Championship Kennesaw July 11-14
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 3 of 5
28 Championship/Team Event 2013 Site Dates Amateur Championship Qualifying June 3-24 Houston Lake CC, Middle Perry June 3 Reynolds Plantation-Great Northeast Waters, Greensboro June 4 Orchard Hills GC, Atlanta South Newnan June 4 Nob North GC, Northwest #2 Cohutta June 10 Pinetree CC, Northwest #1 Kennesaw June 10
Atlanta North Alpharetta Athletic Club-East June 10 Green Island CC, West Columbus June 11
Southeast Club at Savannah Harbor June 18
East Augusta CC June 20 Sunset CC, Southwest Moultrie June 21 Junior Sectional Challenge The Georgia Club, Match Statham July 22-23 GA/SC Junior Challenge Forest Lake Club, Match Columbia July 26-27 GA/SC Girls' Junior Challenge Match SC Aug. 3-4 Women's Southeastern Challenge Match 2014 N/A Senior Women's King & Prince GC, Championship St. Simons Island Aug. 26-27 The Landings Club, Senior Championship Savannah Aug. 28-30 Legacy on Lanier GC, Public Links Championship Lake Lanier Islands Sept. 14-15 Women's Team Brasstown Valley Resort, Championship Young Harris Sept. 25-26 Atlanta Amateur Match Play Rivermont G & CC, Championship Johns Creek Oct. 3-6 Southeastern Challenge Cuscowilla on Lake Oconee, Match Eatonton Oct. 19-20 The Georgia Club, Team Championship Statham Oct. 26-27 Senior Four-Ball Country Club of Columbus & Championship Green Island CC Nov. 13-15
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 4 of 5
29 USGA Qualifier 2013 Site Dates
U.S. Open Local #1 Marietta CC, Kennesaw May 13 U.S. Women's Open Sectional Druid Hills GC, Atlanta May 13 Atlanta National GC, U.S. Open Local #2 Alpharetta May 14
U.S. Women's APL The Oaks Course, Covington May 29
U.S. Open Sectional Hawks Ridge GC, Ball Ground June 3
U.S. APL Woodmont G & CC, Canton June 11 The Standard Club, U.S. Senior Open Johns Creek June 17
U.S. Junior Amateur UGA GC, Athens June 24
U.S. Girls' Junior Amateur Cartersville CC July 1
U.S. Women's Amateur Dalton G & CC July 8 Capital City Club-Crabapple, U.S. Amateur #1 Woodstock July 23-24
U.S. Amateur #2 Athens CC July 29-30 U.S. Senior Women's Sea Island GC-Retreat Amateur Course, St. Simons Island July 25
U.S. Senior Amateur Brickyard at Riverside, Macon Aug. 12
U.S. Mid-Amateur The Frog GC, Villa Rica Aug. 21 U.S. Women's Mid-Amateur Rivermont G & CC, Johns #1 Creek Aug. 29 U.S. Women's Mid-Amateur The Landings Club-Deer #2 Creek, Savannah Sept. 8
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 5 of 5
30 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
Course Rating and Measuring
2012 Course Rating Activities:
• 18 courses laser-measured • 45 courses rated • 32 adjustments made to current yardages at member clubs • 58 additional or adjusted ratings issued to member clubs
• The following course rating captains attended the USGA Calibration Seminar in Palm Beach Gardens and again scored at the top of the class:
Men’s Team: Jim Coleman Jerri Smith Mike Downes Dave Turner Women’s Team: Nancy Henning Karen Sellick Linda Lee Claire Thompson
• Course rater training seminars were conducted in each rating zone and all active rating volunteers attended.
2013 Course Rating Activities:
• Six course rating captains will attend the USGA Calibration Seminar in Irving, Texas, on March 17-18.
• Course rater training seminars are scheduled as follows:
Mid Zone: February 27 at Healy Point CC in Macon Southeast Zone: March 7 at The Landings Club in Savannah East Zone: March 13 at West Lake CC in Augusta Atlanta Zone: March 21 at Indian Hills CC in Marietta Note: A three-hour beginner session will take place in each zone the day prior to these meetings.
• Approximately 50 courses will be scheduled for routine re-rating in 2013 in accordance with the USGA Course Rating System. Those where yardages have changes will be laser-measured.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 1
31 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
GSGA – Private Benefit Network
In recap, the GSGA Private Benefit Network (PBN) is a health insurance arrangement that will be self-insured by the Association and will be offered to employees of GSGA Regular Member Clubs and select other entities. This is a non-profit trust designed for participating members, sponsored by GSGA and owned and managed by participating clubs. Health coverage through this PBN will include an array of benefit options, actuarial pricing based on anticipated claims and development of a claims reserve. The GSGA PBN looks just like a traditional health insurance program, with multiple options and traditional physicians’ networks available.
Due to market developments and the abundance of insurance filings which the state insurance department is dealing with in response to the Affordable Health Care Act, plan availability has taken longer than initially anticipated. The application for the establishment of this trust has been filed with the Georgia Department of Insurance and is awaiting final approval. We are cautiously hopeful to receive final approval and begin marketing and accepting applications during Q1 of 2013.
With uncertainty about how the Affordable Health Care Act will impact many of our clubs, we are hopeful this will be a valued benefit to member clubs that will allow them to not only forecast but also have a say in the control of health care costs for their employees. Furthermore, it will likely enable clubs to provide health benefits to their employees that otherwise would not be able.
Overall, developments in this same arena (Supreme Court affirmation of the ACA and the 2012 presidential election) make this approach even more pressing. We anticipate the availability of this benefit option will allow the Association to provide significant new member value on a long-term basis.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 1
32 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
GSGA Foundation
• The GSGA Foundation Board of Trustees met quarterly in 2012. • The GSGA Foundation Board of Trustees approved the following officers for the 2012-13 fiscal year beginning July 1, 2012: Mark Esoda as President, Grover Maxwell as Vice President and Bill Blalock as Secretary-Treasurer. The Board filled two openings for Trustees with Maury McDonnell of Cartersville and David Biscan of Johns Creek. Attached is a listing of the GSGA Foundation 2012-13 Board of Trustees. • For the 2012-13 school year, the GSGA Foundation awarded 71 Yates Scholarships totaling $168,000 and 14 Moncrief Scholarships totaling $25,500. This is a total of 85 Scholars receiving $193,500. The amount represents a 25% increase in overall scholarship spending in the past two years. Yates Scholars represent 43 different GSGA Member Clubs. The average cumulative GPA for our 2013 graduating class of Yates Scholars is 3.62. • The 2012 Dick Franklin Performance Awards were presented to Rachel Walsh for the Most Outstanding Rising Senior and Gia Mongell as the Most Outstanding Rising Junior. Ms. Walsh is a Yates Scholar from The Savannah Golf Club attending the University of Georgia. Ms. Mongell is a Yates Scholar from Cherokee Town & Country Club attending The Juilliard School. • The Annual Fund was mailed out on November 13 to 45,000 GSGA members and previous donors. An email solicitation was sent out in December. As of December 31, the GSGA Foundation has received $51,405.56 from 244 donors this fiscal year. • An Alumni Annual Fund was developed and executed in December. The email solicitation was sent to 283 alumni and 286 received the mailing. There are over 500 alumni from both programs. • Roger Cordes left a bequest to the GSGA Foundation. An oral report will be given. • The Georgia Cup events were held on March 26 and 27 at The Golf Club of Georgia. The GSGA Foundation wishes to thank everyone who participated. The events will be held on April 3 and 4 in 2013. 2013 is the 16th anniversary of The Georgia Cup. • Efforts continue to promote awareness of the Yates Scholarship Program to GSGA Member Clubs as a valuable GSGA Member Service. • The 2013 deadline for scholarship applications is Friday, March 1. • The 2013 GSGA Foundation Scholar Luncheon is set for Friday, June 7.
GSGAF Endowments
Wilson P. Franklin – Chase Rudell, Kennesaw State University, Berkeley Hills Country Club Billy Peters – Madeline MacQuirter, University of Utah, Glen Arven Country Club Paul Grigsby – Matt Howard, Georgia Tech, Capital City Club Boone Aiken Knox – Pui Wong, University of Georgia, Augusta National Golf Club Capital City Club – Pooya Hoseinzadeh, University of Georgia, Capital City Club J. Lawrence Connolly – Scholar announced spring 2013 William Weston IV – Scholar announced spring 2013 John Kirk – Scholar announced spring 2013 H.P. “Pink” Persons, Jr. – Scholar announced spring 2013 TBA at GGHOF – Scholar announced spring 2013
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 3
33 GSGAF Named Scholarships
Billi Marcus - Addison Esoda, University of Alabama, Atlanta Country Club Stuart Blandford – Chris Hicks, University of Georgia, Black Creek Golf Club Roger Cordes – Elizabeth Lybrook, University of Alabama, Country Club of Roswell The Georgia Cup – Connor Paton, Georgia Tech, The Golf Club of Georgia Barnsley Gardens – Hunter Cornelius, College of Coastal Georgia, Battlefield Golf Club
GSGAF Yates Scholarship Committee
Chris Cupit Dr. Catherine Lewis Claudeen Lindberg John McGoogan Caryl Paller
GSGAF Moncrief Scholarship Committee (University of Georgia)
Dr. Bob Bowen Mike Crawford James Drinkard Dennis Echols Chuck Underwood
GSGAF Moncrief Scholarship Committee (Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College)
Don Branch William Smith Brian Swartz Wade Thomas
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 2 of 3
34 GSGA FOUNDATION 2012-2013 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
OFFICERS (Terms expire June 2014)
President: Mark Esoda, Marietta (Atlanta Country Club) - Georgia Golf Course Superintendents Association representative Vice-President: Grover C. Maxwell, III, Atlanta (Peachtree Golf Club) Secretary/Treasurer: Bill Blalock, Atlanta (Capital City Club)
TRUSTEES (Officers and the following)
Terms Expire June 2013 • Rick Claussen, Augusta (Augusta Country Club) • Hal Hayes, Savannah (The Savannah Golf Club) • David Biscan, Johns Creek (The Golf Club of Georgia)
Terms Expire June 2014 • Ray Cutright, Macon (Idle Hour Club) - Georgia Section, PGA of America representative • Hal Greer, Macon (Idle Hour Club) • Dan Reeves, Atlanta (Atlanta Athletic Club)
Terms Expire June 2015 • Joe Guerra, Newnan (Newnan Country Club) • Maury McDonnell, Cartersville - Georgia Chapter, Club Managers Association of America representative • Graham Roberts, Atlanta (Ansley Golf Club)
EX-OFFICIO TRUSTEES
Past Presidents: Bob Bowen, Athens - 1992-1993 (Athens Country Club) Glenn Cornell, Dacula - 1994-1996 (Atlanta Athletic Club) Caryl Paller, Atlanta - 1997-1998 (The Standard Club) E. George Johnson, Sea Island - 2000-2001 (Ocean Forest Golf Club) Carey Brown, Atlanta - 2002-2003 (Cherokee Town and Country Club) John C. McGoogan, Atlanta - 2005-2008 (Capital City Club) Neill Hatcher, Columbus - 2008-2010 (Country Club of Columbus) Chuck Kennedy, Atlanta - 2010-2012 (Peachtree Golf Club)
GSGA President-Elect Dave Ballard, Roswell (Indian Hills Country Club)
PAST PRESIDENTS IN MEMORIAM
Dr. Robert C. “Bo” Bolander - 1999 Richard R. Franklin - 2004-2005
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 3 of 3
35 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
Report of Executive Director
The reports before have given some insight into the past year which has been eventful. The Georgia State Golf Association continues proud service to our 334 Members Clubs and some 75,000 individual golfers at those Georgia Clubs.
In 2012, the Association took a major step in preparing itself for the future. As reported in today’s session, the landscape of golf is changing as are the requirements to support our members and volunteers.
In my short time, I’ve confirmed what I already knew, that the GSGA staff and volunteer base is dedicated and passionate in promoting and supporting the game in Georgia. With that being said, we’re working hard every day to define our goals as an Association so we can be certain our efforts maximize our impact.
As 2013 rolls forward, you’ll see a few major changes. We’re reaffirming our commitment to volunteers in all facets of the Association. We seek to empower those who offer their support and through an evolving committee structure,better definition of expectations and new training seminars – we know 2013 has great things in store.
You’ll see an expanded tournament schedule thanks to the hard work of the Rules & Competitions Department. Included therein will be upgraded experiences for the players and volunteers.
You’ll see the continued development of the NEW GSGA.org. Now, unlike ever before, we’re able to showcase our Association to the world. Through the hard work of so many who have committed their efforts and ideas, our world is becoming ever more automated allowing us to better serve our members and offer more programs and services.
You’ll also notice a new partnership presence at many of our events and on our web pages. These strategic partnerships will provide a much needed revenue stream to empower us to expand our reach and improve our programming for the betterment of golf in Georgia.
With these exciting advancements come change, and as we seek to embrace this changing environment, I ask for your support as we learn and grow. We will soon be implementing a strategic plan to focus the efforts and attention of the Association. You’ll see the Association adapt to achieve our goals and fulfill our vision for the future. There will be times when progress will be swift and other times where we’ll need a rudder adjustment, but through it all, we stand committed to fulfilling the tremendous potential of the GSGA.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 1
36 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
Report of Nominating Committee
The following is a summary of the work done by the 2012 Nominating Committee. The full slate of officers, executive committee and board of directors of the Georgia State Golf Association follows, which is recommended to the Board by the executive committee.
Officers • President Greg Butterfield moves to Immediate Past President and his term on the executive committee expires at the end of service as Immediate Past President. • President-Elect Chuck Palmer moves to President and his term on the executive committee expires at the end of service as Immediate Past President. • Dave Ballard of Indian Hills Country Club was nominated for a one-year term as President-Elect. • Secretary/Treasurer Bill Blalock’s second term on the executive committee will expire at the 2013 annual meeting. • Olivia Flanagan of Stonebridge G&CC was nominated for a one-year term as Secretary/Treasurer. • Lee Cassady of The Landings and Olivia Flanagan of Stonebridge G&CC were nominated for a second three-year term on the executive committee. • David Burke of Cartersville CC was nominated for a three-year term on the executive committee. • Immediate Past President Chris Cupit’s term on the executive committee expires at the time Greg Butterfield becomes Immediate Past President. • General Counsel Richard Gerakitis was reappointed. Senior Directors The following have been nominated for new three-year terms as senior directors. They have served at least ten years on the Board or a three-year term on the executive committee: • Carey Brown, Cherokee Town & CC • Neill Hatcher, CC of Columbus • Joe Estes, Cherokee Town & CC • Wes Hudson, Horseshoe Bend CC • Olivia Flanagan, Stonebridge G&CC • William Oliver, Idle Hour Club • Sissi Gann, Houston Lake CC • Bryan Persons was nominated but elected • Merilee Giddings, Flat Creek Club director emeritus status
All other Senior Directors continue in their current terms.
Directors The following have been nominated for new three-year terms as directors; they have previously served at least one term on the Board. • Jim Blose, Jennings Mill CC • Belinda Marsh, Rivermont G&CC • David Burke, Cartersville CC • Chuck Palmer, East Lake GC • Carole Cavanaugh, White Oak GC • Karen Sellick, The Landings Club • Peter Crosby, The Landings Club • Wayne Thomas, Pine Oaks GC • Mike Downes, West Lake CC • Claire Thompson, Landings GC • Jim Ingram, Brookfield CC • Dave Turner, Woodmont G&CC
The following have been nominated for three-year terms on the Board; they are new directors. • Charlie Anderson, Atlanta Athletic Club; • Jodie Shephard, Newnan CC • Bill Bayfield, The Landings Club
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 3
37 GSGA Executive Committee and Board of Directors 2013
OFFICERS
President - Chuck Palmer, Atlanta – East Lake Golf Club • Time in office concludes at Annual Meeting of 2014 (one year term) • Executive Committee term expires at end of service as Immediate Past President
President-Elect – Dave Ballard, Roswell – Indian Hills Country Club • Time in office concludes at Annual Meeting of 2014 (one year term) • Executive Committee term expires at end of service as Immediate Past President
Secretary/Treasurer - Olivia Flanagan, Albany – Doublegate Country Club • Term of office expires at Annual Meeting of 2014 (one year) • Second Term on Executive Committee expires at Annual Meeting of 2016
VICE PRESIDENTS
Executive Committee Terms Expire at Annual Meeting of 2014 (one year remaining) Carey Brown, Atlanta – Cherokee Town & Country Club (First Term) James Coleman, Acworth – Brookstone Golf & Country Club (First Term) Belinda Marsh, Johns Creek – Rivermont Golf & Country Club (First Term)
Executive Committee Terms Expire at Annual Meeting of 2015 (two years remaining) Chuck Kennedy, Atlanta – Peachtree Golf Club (First Term)
Executive Committee Terms Expire at Annual Meeting of 2016 (three years remaining) David Burke, Canton – Cartersville Country Club (First Term) Lee Cassady, Savannah – The Landings Club (Second Term)
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Immediate Past President – Greg Butterfield, Smyrna, The Frog Golf Club at the Georgian • Term on Executive Committee expires upon the conclusion of the term of the current president
Georgia State Golf Foundation President - Mark Esoda, Marietta – Atlanta Country Club • Term on Executive Committee expires upon expiration of term of office - June 30, 2014
GENERAL COUNSEL
Richard Gerakitis, Atlanta – Ansley Golf Club
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 2 of 3
38 BOARD OF DIRECTORS (80)
PAST PRESIDENTS (16) Ex-officio members of the Board
Andy Bargeron, Chatsworth Glenn Cornell, Dacula Gene B. McClure, Atlanta Ed Barnes, Peachtree City Wendell Couch, Athens Billy Peters, Blakely William Blalock, Atlanta Pete Cox, Cobb John D. Reynolds, III, MD, Augusta Arnold Blum, Macon Chris Cupit, Milton W. Richard Wilson, Columbus Jim Broadwell, St. Simons Island John Ellis, Atlanta Greg Butterfield, Smyrna Seth L. Knight, III, Columbus
SENIOR DIRECTORS (29) Have served 10 years as a Director or a three-year term on the Executive Committee
Terms Expire at Annual Meeting of 2014
Dave Ballard, Roswell (President Elect) John Glenn, Thomasville Becky Royer, Canton Kurt Faxon, Savannah Jim Knerr, Augusta Dennis Terry, Athens
Terms Expire at Annual Meeting of 2015
Ron Abadie, Peachtree City Robert F. Fowler, Sandy Springs John Marshall, Smyrna Dr. Bob Bowen, Athens Don Heilman, Roswell Caryl Paller, Atlanta William B. Brown, Marietta Nancy Henning, Roswell Ken Phillips, Warner Robbins Lee Cassady, Savannah E. George Johnson, Atlanta Betty Rich, Villa Rica John Companiotte, Atlanta G. Alan Katz, Marietta Everett Stowe, Lawrenceville
Terms Expire at Annual Meeting of 2016
Carey Brown, Atlanta Sissi Gann, Kathleen Wes Hudson, Roswell Joe Estes, Atlanta Merilee Giddings, Peachtree City William Oliver, Macon Olivia Flanagan, Albany (Sec/Treas) Neill Hatcher, Columbus
DIRECTORS (35) Years of tenure in 2013 in parentheses
Terms Expire at Annual Meeting of 2014
Kim Beach, Cumming (6) Ray Haas, Big Canoe (9) Spencer Sappington, Milton (6) Jim Coleman, Acworth (9) Ann Kirk, Marietta (6) Ed Sweeney, Milton (3) Tom Duke, Norcross (3) Don Marsh, Johns Creek (3) Mark Esoda, Mareitta (3) Ray Orrie, Roswell (9)
Terms Expire at Annual Meeting of 2015
Laura Coble, Augusta (5) G. Charles Kennedy, Atlanta (5) Franco Reever, Kennesaw (2) Bill Cowles, Lilburn (8) Linda Lee, Alpharetta (8) Clyde Taylor, Marietta (5) Carol Crosby, Savannah (8) Debby Lichtman, Peachtree City (5) Richard P. Gillespie, Marietta (5) Grover Maxwell, Atlanta (2)
Terms Expire at Annual Meeting of 2016
Charlie Anderson, Johns Creek (1) Peter Crosby, Savannah (7) Karen Sellick, Savannah (7) Bill Bayfield, Savannah (1) Mike Downes, Martinez (10) Jodie Shephard, Newnan (1) Jim Blose, Bogart (4) Jim Ingram, Marietta (7) Wayne Thomas, Warner Robins (4) David Burke, Canton (4) Belinda Marsh, Johns Creek (10) Claire Thompson, Warner Robins (7) Carole Cavanaugh, Sharpsburg (10) Chuck Palmer, Atlanta (7) (President) Dave Turner, Canton (4)
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 3 of 3
39 GEORGIA STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013
Bill Todd Award – History and Purpose
Bill Todd of Indian Hills Country Club in Marietta was the Georgia State Golf Association’s president in 1995, a member of its Executive Committee on two different occasions from 1987-89 and 1993-97 and a member of the Board of Directors from 1984-97. He elected Director Emeritus status in 1998 but remained active until his passing in January 2001 after a long illness.
Todd’s volunteer service to golf began during the 1970s, when he was active in the formation of the Indian Hills Men’s Golf Association. He first became involved with the GSGA in 1983 as an associate director prior to his election to the full Board in 1984.
Some of his most important work with the Association occurred during the mid-1980s when he and good friend Col. Ike Fenton co-chaired the GSGA’s effort to convert all courses in Georgia to the then-new USGA Course and Slope Rating System.
Todd was active in all areas of the Association, but was particularly interested in working as a rules official at GSGA and Georgia Section PGA competitions. In 1998, Todd was presented the President’s Service Award by Gene McClure, the highest honor given to a GSGA volunteer.
He also had a fine competitive record in the state, finishing eighth in the GSGA Senior Championship in 1994, partnering with good friend Bill Myers to a sixth place finish in the 1997 GSGA Senior Four-Ball Championship and qualifying for the 1992 and 1996 USGA Senior Amateur Championships.
Many of Bill’s friends made contributions to the Georgia State Golf Foundation in his name during 2001. The Foundation recommended to the GSGA Executive Committee that there could be no more appropriate way to honor his memory than to annually recall the qualities and characteristics of leadership and service that he gave to his golf association by the presentation of an award, named for him, to a fellow volunteer with similar dedication and passion.
The Executive Committee approved the recommendation and established a Bill Todd Award Committee, consisting of GSGA volunteers and staff, that annually accepts nominations and selects the recipient. It was also decided that, instead of having two awards with similar criteria, the Bill Todd Award should replace the previous President’s Service Award, which was given prior to 2002 as special recognition to a volunteer by the outgoing president.
The Bill Todd Award is presented each year during the Association’s annual meeting and, in keeping with the prior award’s statement of purpose, it will continue to honor an individual who has maintained “the highest standard of service and stewardship as a Georgia State Golf Association volunteer.” – the only standard Bill Todd knew.
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 1 of 2
40 Bill Todd Award - Past Winners
From 1993-2000, this award was called the President’s Service Award and was given at the discretion of the GSGA president. Upon the creation of The Bill Todd Award following his passing in 2001, it was deemed that all former winners of the President’s Service Award would also be known as winners of The Bill Todd Award. The winner is now chosen by a committee that includes all of the past recipients and other volunteers from each area of GSGA service.
Year Bill Todd Award Winner Presented by Chair of Bill Todd Award Committee 2012 Bill Blalock, Atlanta Chris Cupit 2011 Pete Cox, Cobb Seth L. Knight, III 2010 Wendell Couch, Greensboro Seth L. Knight, III 2009 Bob Flynn, Kennesaw Seth L. Knight, III 2008 G. Alan Katz, Marietta Seth L. Knight, III 2007 W. Richard Wilson, Columbus Glenn Cornell 2006 Richard L. Franklin, Dunwoody (posthumous) Presented to Steve Franklin by Glenn Cornell 2005 Robert L. Henning, Roswell Bill Blalock 2004 Adrian C. McManus, Jr., Athens Bill Blalock 2003 Roger Cordes, Decatur Bill Blalock 2002 Nancy Henning, Roswell Jim Broadwell Presented by Outgoing President 2000 Gene McClure, Atlanta Jim Broadwell 1998 Bill Todd, Marietta Gene McClure 1996 Col. F. “Ike” Fenton, Peachtree City Bill Todd 1993 Billy Peters, Blakely Andy Bargeron
GSGA Annual Meeting – January 19, 2013 Page 2 of 2
41