Colorado PGA March 2017 Pro Peaks Digital Magazine by Colorado PGA

PRO PEAKS

The Official Publication of the Colorado PGA March 2017

SPRING MEETING PREVIEW

March 27, 2017 | Pinehurst CC

Vision 2020 Seven to Run for Board of Directors Former Bronco to Highlight Education PXG and Golf Genius to host Seminars

Colorado PGA Pro Peaks Digital Magazine

DRIVE CHIP PUTT What is it?

Drive, Chip & Putt is a free, nationwide junior golf program for boys and girls ages 7-15 that focuses on the three fundamental skills of the game — DRIVING, CHIPPING and PUTTING.

How does it work?

Drive, Chip & Putt is conducted in four stages:

LOCAL QUALIFYING — 268 host sites in all 50 states • SUBREGIONAL QUALIFYING — 53 host sites in 31 states REGIONAL QUALIFYING — 10 sites, featuring many PGA and USGA championship venues

NATIONAL FINALS — 80 junior golfers competing at Augusta National Golf Club the Sunday before the Masters Tournament and broadcast live on Golf Channel

How do we get started?

A parent or guardian should register each child for one local competition at DriveChipandPutt.com. Have fun learning and practicing golf skills. Tell your friends to join.

WHEN YOU TEACH YOUR KIDS TO LOVE GOLF, THEY WIN FOR A LIFETIME. LEARN MORE AT DRIVECHIPANDPUTT.COM

@DriveChipPutt

DriveChipandPutt

IT’S PLAYTIME

Pro Peaks is produced by the Colorado PGA

Colorado PGA Officers

West Chapter Officers

Ben Welsh, PGA Vice-President | 2017-2018 Eagle-Vail Golf Club

Jeff Boyer, PGA Secretary | 2015-2016 Eagle Ranch Golf Course

Jim Hajek, PGA Vice-President | 2017-2018 Fossil Trace Golf Club

Mike Mendelson, PGA Honorary President | 2017-2019 City of Grand Junction

Leslie Core-Drevecky, PGA Honorary President | 2017-2018 Murphy Creek Golf Course

Board of Directors

Brett Gagnon, PGA | 2016-2018 Red Sky Golf Club

Ty Thompson, PGA President | 2017-2018 Colorado Springs Country Club

Andy Benson, PGA | 2017-2019 Highlands Ranch Golf Club Rick Ellefson, PGA | 2015-2017 PGA Member Scott Erwin, PGA | 2015-2017 Maroon Creek Club Kyle Heyen, PGA | District 9 Dir. Hiwan Golf Club Charles ‘Vic’ Kline, PGA | Past District 9 Director Indian Tree Golf Club Cathy Matthews-Kane, PGA | 2016-2018 Country Club of Colorado Josh Miller, PGA | 2016-2018 GolfTEC Bobby Quaratino, PGA | 2017-2019 West Woods Golf Course Chris Swinhart, PGA | 2017-2019 Thorncreek Golf Course Dave Troyer, PGA | 2016-2018 CommonGround Golf Course

Independent Directors Theo Gregory Spencer Zinn

Ed Marzec, PGA President | 2017-2018 Country Club of the Rockies

Jacques Deyoe, PGA | 2016-2018 Aspen Glen Club

CJ Rhyne, PGA | 2016-2018 GJ Golf Luke Brosterhous | 2016-2018 Catamount Ranch and Club

Colorado PGA REACH Trustees Spencer Zinn Chairman

Anne Broholm CEO AHEAD Tom Bauerle Owner Colorado Golf and Turf Brad Dombaugh CEO PSA Worldwide Corp., INC. Walter Glover Former Chief Financial Officer USOC Theo Gregory Senior Vice President - El Pomar Foundation Bob Lally Chief of Staff YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region George Lee Managing Director – Investments Wells Fargo

Staff

Executive Director/CEO Eddie Ainsworth, PGA eainsworth@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1593 C (719) 761-6125 Assistant Executive Director Foundation Programs Keith Soriano, PGA ksoriano@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1590 C (720) 841-1006 Assistant Executive Director Section Programs Patrick Salva psalva@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1597 C (303) 246-1007 Tournament Director Justin Limon, PGA jlimon@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1588 C (720) 390-1160 Junior Golf Director Holly Champion, PGA hchampion@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1591 C (217) 232-1790

Scott McGraw Cherry Creek Insurance Group Vice President of Employee Benefits

Executive Assistant Annie O’Donnell adonnell@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1595

Honarable Sue Payton President SCI Aerospace Inc.

Employment Consultant Bruce Lubach, PGA blubach@pgahq.com P | (623) 243-9199 C | (402) 802-8241

Lisa Potvin Captain United States Navy

Spring Business Meeting Issue

The Official Magazine of the Colorado PGA

LTG Ed Soriano, US Army (Ret) Director, Business Development Global Land Forces - Northrop Grumman Corporation Bill Vogeney Executive VP and Chief Lending Officer Ent Credit Union

Colorado PGA 6630 Bear Dance Drive | Larkspur, CO 80118 P | (303) 681-0742 www.coloradopga.com Pro Peaks is distributed free to members and affiliates of the Colorado PGA twelve times per year. The articles and other information contained within this publication are informational and do not necessarily represent the view or opinions of the Colorado PGA. The Colorado PGA 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 written permission of the Colorado PGA is prohibited.

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Colorado PGA Pro Peaks Digital Magazine

President’s Report What, Why and How

Exec. Director’s Report 7 Excellence, Innovation, Collaboration, Improvement District Director Report 8 PGA Properties, REACH, Championships and Employment 9 PGA of America Announced Shorts can be Worn in PGA Championship Practice Rounds Colorado PGA News 10 Spring Meeting Preview

20 Take the PGA Golf Professional Compensation Survey 20 Heritage at Westmoor Now Walnut Creek Golf Preserve 21 Scott Named Director of UCCA PGA-PGM Program 21

Ten Earn Platinum Award from Association of Golf Merchandisers

PGA Junior League Golf Grows to Record-Number 36,000 Participants in 2016

Attend PGA, USGA, PGA Tour WGC and LPGA Events for Free

PGA HOPE Training Returning in 2017

Online Opportunities Abound

Go From Underdog to Top Dog!

Golf Genius Seminar to Follow Spring Meeting

Meet the Candidates

Andy Hilts, PGA

Member News Member Update

Scott Erwin, PGA

Quarter Century Feature Story

Dennis Murray, PGA

Anthony Vitale, PGA

Tournament News CoBank Colorado Women’s Open Winner to Earn $50,000

Mike O’Donnell, PGA

Paul Surniak, PGA

Jim Miller, PGA

Spring Business Meeting Issue

What’s Inside

Section Partners 34 Partners

Important Dates

Monday, March 27, 2017 Spring Business Meeting & Pro-Pro Pinehurst Country Club

Thursday, April 20, 2017 West Chapter Spring Meeting & Pro-Pro Bookcliff Country Club

Monday, April 3, 2017 Pro Only Stroke Play # 1 Columbine Country Club

Friday, April 21, 2017 W.C. – Pro-Am #1 Bookcliff Country Club

Monday, April 10, 2017 Valley CC Pro-Am Valley Country Club

Monday, April 24, 2017 Pro Only Stroke Play # 2 CommonGround Golf Course

Wednesday, April 12, 2017 PGA HOPE Training Plum Creek Golf Course

Monday, May 1, 2017 Lakewood CC Pro-Am Lakewood Country Club

Monday, April 17, 2017 Blackstone CC Pro-Am Blackstone Country Club

Wednesday, May 4 Pro Only Stroke Play # 3 Indian Tree Golf Club

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Colorado PGA Pro Peaks Digital Magazine

President’s Message

What, Why and How By Ty Thompson, PGA

pring is upon us and another golf season is right around the corner. I would like to encourage each of you to attend the Spring Business Meeting on March 27, 2017 at Pinehurst Country Club. Last week your Board of Directors got away for a two-day retreat and worked diligently on developing our “brand” and “story” as the Colorado PGA Section. During multiple workshop sessions, the board was able to more clearly define the “What, How, and Why” of the Colorado Section. These answers will guide our strategic direction going forward and the Spring Business Meeting will be our opportunity Ty Thompson, PGA to highlight these results.

the complete story, and be proud when it comes to our PGA brand. For example, personal engagement in a foundation program, playing in tournaments, or taking advantage of an education program typically coincide with the chapters of our lives. As we carry the PGA logo on our shirts, bags, signature lines, and more, it is our responsibility to represent and promote the association in the most positive light possible. So no matter your current “chapter” as a PGA member the Spring Business Meeting will provide greater clarification to what we do, how we do it, and most importantly why we do it!

My Best,

President

Colorado PGA Director of Golf Colorado Springs Country Club ty.thompson@pga.com

It is my hope that each of you takes pride in our Colorado PGA brand. A brand that includes our foundation, tournament program, community outreach, education, player development, and employment services. Throughout our careers, it appears, we weave in and out of the programs and services offered by our section. However, I am fully convinced that each of us should be able to tell

Ty Thompson, PGA President - Colorado Section PGA Director of Golf - Colorado Springs Country Club ty.thompson@pga.com P | (303) 918-9270

2018 Annual Dues Billing Preliminary processes leading up to the creation of the FY2017/2018 annual dues invoices has begun. Invoices will be created based upon an individual’s employment and section affiliation as of May 1, 2017 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2018. Dues invoices will be emailed to all individuals with an email address on file. A targeted email will be sent to those individuals once the dues link is open/active. Those persons without an email address will be sent a printed invoice through the US mail service the first week in May.

Update Your Contact Info If you are changing your employment for 2017, don’t forget to make that change at PGA.org. This should be done even if you have left employment and new employment has not been secured yet. You should also update changes to your address, phone, and email. This will also ensure that you are listed correctly in the Member Directory App and receive any email in a timely manner. If you have questions or need assistance, please call the Colorado PGA Section Office at (303) 681-0742. Click here if you have questions about updating your employment

Excellence, Innovation, Collaboration, Improvement By Eddie Ainsworth, PGA

My Fellow Colorado PGA Members, I trust that each and every one of you is ready for the coming golf season! For all of us here in your Section Office, we view March 27, 2017, the date of our Spring Business Meeting at Pinehurst Country Club, as the the official start date of the season. However, like you we’ve been working hard all offseason to provide the best possible service to our Colorado PGA Members, Apprentices, and PGA-PGM Students. We are truly in a constant pursuit of excellence and committed to innovation, collaboration, and improvement, Eddie Ainsworth, PGA while we strive to “Serve the Executive Director Member and Grow the Game”. Colorado PGA It is my hope that each of you eainsworth@pgahq.com are able to join us for this annual P | (303) 996-1593 gathering at Pinehurst as our C | (719) 761-6125 Officers will share with you the “vision” and the “why” we do what we do in service to our Membership and our local communities. During our Spring Business Meeting we will also be electing three new members to our Board of Directors. We have seven outstanding PGA Members who have answered the call to step up and provide their leadership in service to our Section. I trust that you will take the time to learn as much as you possibly can from these Members bios and their reasons for running for our Board of Directors as they will help shape the direction of our Section for the next several years. Additionally, we will hear from each of the candidates so

you can carefully consider who is best prepared to lead at this point in our Section’s History. I would personally like to thank Dennis, Mike, Anthony, Scott, Jim, Paul and Andy for their commitment to serve. Best of luck to each of you! In addition to all the above, we will be officially launching the 2017 Club Champions Cup. We have four terrific regional qualifying sites and we will host the finals on August 22, 2017 at The Club of Ravenna where thirty-two (32) of our Colorado PGA Professionals will play for a purse of $10,000. We are so excited that we are able to use this event as a way to raise money for our Military Pillar under the Colorado PGA REACH Foundation and provide an opportunity for our PGA Members, the people that make it happen day in and day out at our golf facilities, to play for a great purse. You’ll want to make sure you register your golf facilities team as soon as possible as there are only twenty (20) spots available per qualifying site, with the top four (4) teams per site and two (2) PGA Professionals from each facility advancing on to the finals.

Spring Business Meeting Issue

Executive Director’s Message

It’s going to be an exciting meeting and an exciting year for the Colorado Section as we are committed to excellence, innovation, collaboration, and improvement in service to you, our Colorado PGA Members, Apprentices, and PGA-PGM Students. Thank you for the opportunity to serve. Very Respectfully,

Eddie Ainsworth, PGA Executive Director/CEO Colorado PGA 6630 Bear Dance Drive Larkspur, CO 80118 eainsworth@pgahq.com O – 303-996-1593 M – 719-761-6125

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Colorado PGA Pro Peaks Digital Magazine

District 9 Director Report

March Update

PGA Properties, REACH, Championships and Employment By Kyle Heyen, PGA

his past month the PGA of America Board of Directors had its SpringPlanning Session and Meeting in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. During this week the Staff and Board worked together as we discuss future direction of the PGA of America in supporting our Mission of Serving the Member and Growing the Game. PGA Properties Congratulations to Dick Gray, Director of Agronomy at the PGA Golf Club just received the TurfNet Superintendent of the Year.

Kyle Heyen, PGA District 9 Director PGA of America Head Professional Hiwan Golf Club

During the week the Board had the opportunity to play at PGA Golf Club. This was my fourth trip to PGA Golf Club in the past four years and with the improvements to the golf course, clubhouse and member and guest service are tremendous, the Golf Club has been recognized with numerous local, state and national awards. If you have never had the opportunity to visit the PGA Golf Club, I would suggest you play in a Winter Series event or just visit the PGA Golf Club on your next golf vacation. Thank you and congratulations to General Manager Jimmy Terry, PGA and his staff for all their success. Also, congratulations to General Manager Keith Reese, PGA and his staff for being recognized by Golf Digest as a top 100 golf course. Currently the Vahalla clubhouse is getting a much needed face lift with a planned spring. Valhalla’s members have already provided rave reviews of the new look.

PGA REACH PGA REACH Senior Director Ryan Cannon and Director of Development and Strategy Davis Horton gave us an update on PGA REACH, the charitable foundation of the PGA of America. The mission of PGA REACH is to positively impact the lives of youth, military and diverse population by enabling access to PGA Professionals, PGA Sections and the game of golf. The three Pillars along with what programs fall under these pillars are: Youth - PGA Junior League Golf Military – PGA Hope, (Helping our Patriots Everywhere) designed to introduce golf to Veterans in order to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well being. Diversity – PGA WORKS Assistance program, development of pilot programs to make the game and industry more diverse and representative of America. We have tremendous opportunities in growing the game and giving back to those that in need. For more information you can visit the PGA REACH website (pgareach.com). PGA Championships As you heard on the SiriusXM “Fairways of Life” show hosted by Matt Adams that was held live in the PGA of America we announced that players would be allowed to wear shorts during practice rounds at all of the PGA of America’s Championship events including the PGA Championship. This change has been well received by players and others. The PGA of America Officers and our CEO Pete Bevacqua were the guests for the 60 minute show which also included discussion of the efforts that our PGA Professionals do day-in and day-out to grow the game of golf and our diversity and inclusion efforts in programs such as PGA Junior League Golf. PGA Employment As a follow up to the Annual Meeting presentation on Employment given by PGA President Paul Levy, I am pleased to report that the Board is continuing to put greater efforts against this area including through an increased number of employment consultants.

As a Board Member I am very proud inform you that as a Board although much of our efforts are focused against the current state of the Association and how we can help you today, we are also always looking down the road in all of our discussions and decisions. I look forward to seeing you all at the Colorado Section Spring meeting. Sincerely,

Kyle Heyen, PGA National PGA Director, District 9 Head Professional, Hiwan Golf Club kyle@hiwan.com

PGA of America Announces Shorts can be Worn in PGA Championship Pracitce Rounds P

GA President Paul Levy announced on Tuesday that shorts would be permitted for practice rounds in all PGA of America events going forward, most notably the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship, PGA Professional Championship and PGA Championship. The PGA Championship will be the first of the four major championships to allow contestants to wear shorts during practice rounds. Great move. The European Tour was at the forefront of this trend when it announced in January 2016 that it would permit shorts for practice rounds. “Maybe. Why not?” Rory McIlroy said last year after the European Tour adopted the rule, when asked if shorts should also be allowed in competition. “It really depends if guys are comfortable or not. I don’t think it takes anything away from the tradition of the game or etiquette or how guys look on the course. “We’re not going to go out in shorts at the British Open if it’s 10 degrees (50 degrees F) and raining. But at the same time, if we’re playing in a hot country and it’s more comfortable for guys to wear shorts, then there’s no reason why they shouldn’t be able to.” When you consider the traditional August date for the

Spring Business Meeting Issue

District 9 Director Report

The goal of the expanded efforts under the guidance of Senior Employment Director Scott Kmiec will be to provide more proactive engagement with PGA Members to better understand their career goals and needs.

PGA Championship -- right in the dead of summer -- this is a rational decision. Temperatures routinely flirt with the triple digits at any given PGA Championship venue. It took years before caddies were allowed to wear shorts on the PGA Tour, which always seemed silly. In a profession that chases the sun, really, what’s the harm in a pair of tasteful shorts? Once considered buttoned up and stuffy, golf has hit the mainstream in recent years and fashion is something that isn’t taken lightly -- just ask players like Rickie Fowler, Darren Clarke, Jesper Parnevik and Bryson DeChambeau. Here in 2017, would the majority of folks be offended by professionals wearing shorts in competition? I don’t think so. Wearing shorts in competition isn’t being considered at this point in time, but perhaps this decision by the PGA of America paves the way for that discussion down the road. T.J. Auclair is a Senior Interactive Producer for PGA.com and has covered professional golf since 1998, traveling to over 60 major championships. You can follow him on Twitter, @tjauclair.

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Colorado PGA Pro Peaks Digital Magazine

Spring Business Meeting Set for Monday, March 27, 2017 at Pinehurst Country Club Click here to register

Colorado PGA will host our annual Spring Business Meeting on Monday, March 27, 2017 at Pinehurst Country Club. Attendees will hear from a number of valued partners, learn about Vision 2020, and will get an update on current activities with the Colorado PGA. The Colorado PGA will also announce the recipients of the Growth of the Game Grants and the winners of the 2017 Colorado PGA West Chapter Awards. Additionally, PXG will host a product demonstration during the meeting and on the driving range as part of their partnerships with the section. The tentative agenda for the meeting is as follows: 0700 Continental Breakfast & Registration 0800 Welcome | Ty Thompson, PGA 0801 Introduction of Distinguished Visitors | Ty Thompson, PGA 0805 Moment of Silence 0808 Post Colors 0811 National Anthem 0815

Special Presentations | Ty Thompson, PGA

0830 Colorado Section Business Meeting Called to Order | Ty Thompson, PGA 0832 UCCS PGM Program Update | Adam Scott, PGA 0837 PGA District Director Report | Kyle Heyen, PGA 0845 Election of Board of Directors | Jim Hajek, PGA 0910 West Chapter Award Winners 0915

REPORT TO THE MEMBERSHIP

- President

- Vice President

- Secretary

- Honorary President

- Executive Director

1000 Open Forum | Eddie Ainsworth, PGA 1010 Adjournment of Business Meeting & Break 1030

Steve Watson - former Denver Bronco, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Go from Underdog to Top Dog by taking the Unreasonable Path

to Successâ&#x20AC;?

1115

PXG Product Review

1145

Lunch provided for Tournament Players & Golf Genius Seminar Attendees

1145

PXG on the Range

1230 Golf Genius Training 1530

Golf Genius Ends

1245 Golf 1730

Scoring, Food & Beverages

Former Bronco Steve Watson to Speak at Spring Meeting

ost of us can identify with being the underdog. We have tough competition. The odds are often stacked against us. Steve Watson knows because he was always the underdog.....the kid chosen last on the playground, never recruited by major colleges, and not drafted by the NFL. So, how did Steve Watson go from underdog to an All-Pro career as a Wide Receiver with the Denver Broncos, playing in the Super Bowl, leading the league in touchdown receptions, and called by John Elway, "one of the best there is"? You need to know the answer because you and your team can create similar results by applying the same simple, powerful principles. And you will love learning them in Steve’s inspiring energetic keynote experience. Steve will share transferable principles that can help anyone or any company go from underdog to top dog.

In this presentation you will: • Learn to stop trying to be great, and start training for greatness. • Learn and apply the art of self-image management. • Discover the overcoming nature of a “Yeah? Well I’ll show you!” mindset for teams and individuals. • Learn how to turn weak and dormant relational ties into powerful allies for success.

Spring Business Meeting Issue

Go From Underdog to Top Dog!

• Discover unforeseen opportunities through the art of being in the right place at the right time. You will leave motivated and with underdog principles that will guide your organization to new levels of greatness!

Golf Genius Seminar to Follow Spring Meeting F

ollowing the 2017 Spring Business Meeting, Rory Luck with Golf Genius Software will host a USGA Tournament Management Club Basic Setup seminar from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. The seminar will cover the basics of the software and is intended to get your prepared to use the software and answer all the questions you might have regarding the program.

Each golf facility (Type 1) or Type 2 or 3 Golf Club

will be granted a single license to use the UTM Club software. A representative from each facility or club must attend a basic setup seminar to activate that license; this seminar will meet those requirements.

The United States Golf Association (USGA) and Golf Genius Software (GGS) have entered into a collaboration agreement whereby GGS will provide golf tournament management software to GHIN State

and Regionals Golf Associations (SRGAs) and their member clubs. Beginning in early 2017, two distinct Tournament Management software products will be offered to GHIN customers as a replacement for the current Tournament Pairing Program (TPP®):

USGA Tournament Management Club, Powered by Golf Genius Software, will provide a feature set equivalent to TPP® plus additional capabilities including robust support for golf leagues USGA Tournament Management Club Premium, Powered by Golf Genius Software, will offer an upgraded set of tournament management features and will be functionally equivalent to the Golf Genius product.

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Colorado PGA Pro Peaks Digital Magazine

Meet the Candidates The membership in attendance at the March 27, 2017 Spring Membership Meeting will be electing three (3) new Colorado PGA Members to replace our outgoing Board of Directors this coming October. the section. Membership Elected to membership January 14, 2000 Education Mississippi State University â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Professional Golf Management Work Experience VP of Education (2004-present) GOLFTEC HQ Certified Personal Coach (2001-2003) GOLFTEC DTC Director of Instruction (1999-2001 ) GOLFTEC Naperville

Andy Hilts, PGA MP VP of Education, GolfTEC What should members know about you? I love the Colorado outdoors. No better place in the world to live and raise our two boys. I enjoy travelling and have been to 49 states (canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to see Alaska) and 12 countries. Reason for running for the board I love our profession and being around golf professionals. I have spent much of my career training and mentoring more than 1800 GOLFTEC coaches. During my 15 years in the Colorado Section I have been lucky to get to know many fantastic golf professionals and selfishly would like to get to know more. After 17 years at GOLFTEC I have been involved in making decisions that impact hundreds of people and the success of our company. I would like to share those experiences to better our section. In addition, I feel like the time is right to get more involved and give back to

Volunteer Experience Colorado PGA Teach-a-Thon Participant in the Ivy Pro Am Golf Academy of America Advisory Board Presenter - PGA National Teaching and Coaching Summits, Proponent Group Summits, EWGA Annual Meeting, PGM Universities, British Columbia PGA and World Golf Amateur Championship Committee Experience PGA of America Instruction Committee 2011 Colorado PGA Awards Committee 2006/2016 Colorado PGA Education Committee 2016-present Awards/Recognition PGA Master Professional in Instruction Colorado PGA Teacher of the Year 2005 Colorado PGA Horton Smith Award 2008 and 2015 Golf Digest Top Young Instructors 2009-2013 GRAA Top 50 Growth of the Game Teacher 2012-2014

It has been my honor and pleasure these past three years to mentor PGA members that are in the planning stage of their career or the interview process. I truly believe, with the right plan and routine, each one of us can be more effective in preparing to win the finally interview. This is true if you are an apprentice preparing to become a Head Professional one day or a Head Professional/Director of Golf striving to become the General Manager/Chief Operating Officer. Most of us wish we had the ability to play the PGA Tour. Realizing that is not going to happen, now is the time to take steps to better prepare ourselves to earn the trust and respect of the golf course or country club we serve. I am willing to meet with you one-on-one to talk confidentially about your current situation and how you can advance to the next level and provide a better living for you and your family. Membership Elected to membership May 1, 1978 Member of the Club Manager Association of America Education Navarro Junior College (2 years) Texas Christian University (2 years) UCLA (business classes in night school)

Scott Erwin, PGA Director of Golf and Owner Representative, Maroon Creek Club What you should know about me My wife and I have been married for 43 years and we have two sons, Jeff (31) and Tyler (29). We have a daughter-in-law Madian (28) and a grandson Scotty (4 years old). I enjoy daily walks and a light workout. I speak publicly at country clubs, churches, jails and men’s groups to encourage others to live a life of significance. Socially my wife and I enjoy various cards games and I will do almost anything Heather wants to do other than shopping. Full Disclosure: Heather and I are the two worst fly fishers in the state of Colorado. Reason for running for the Colorado PGA Board At 67 years of age I am not in competition with any

Spring Business Meeting Issue

of my fellow PGA Members for a job. My passion in serving on the Colorado PGA Board of Directors is to confidentially mentor PGA members and Apprentices who would like to advance their careers.

Work Experience I have served country clubs as the Head Professional, General Manager/Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice President and Owner Representative. Director of Golf/Owner Representative(2011 to Present) Maroon Creek Club (Aspen, CO) Executive VP (2010 – 2011) Adams Rib Ranch (Eagle, CO) Executive Vice President (2008 – 2010) Bears Brook Club (Prosper, TX) General Manager/COO (2006 – 2008) Berkeley Hall Club (Bluffton, SC) General Manager/COO (1999 – 2006) Maroon Creek Club (Aspen, CO) General Manager/COO (1996 – 1999) Golf Club of Oklahoma (Tulsa, OK) Developer/Owner/Operator (1988 – 1995) Scotty’s Golf Park (Dallas, TX) continued on page 19

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Colorado PGA Pro Peaks Digital Magazine

Get to Know the Candidates

that debt. As the back nine of my golf career plays out, it would be an honor and a privilege to serve you, my fellow Golf Professionals, as a Board Member of the Colorado Section PGA . Membership Elected to membership September 1, 1980 Education Florida State University, Business Administration Work Experience Teaching Professional (2014-present) Valley Country Club (Aurora, CO) Director of Instruction (2000-2013) The Ridge at Castle Pines North (Castle Pines, CO) Teaching Professional (2001-2010) Innisbrook Resort, Legacy Golf Course (Black Diamond Ranch, FL) Head Professional/Membership Director (1993-1999) Bear Creek Golf Club (Lakewood, CO) Head Golf Professional (1991-1992) Lake Arrowhead CC (Lake Arrowhead, CA)

Dennis C. Murray, PGA Certified Teaching Professional, Valley Country Club What should members know about you? My priorities in life are faith, family, friends and my golden retriever, Ben. Have always been a sports enthusiast and still enjoy playing golf. Being a Golf Professional has allowed me to earn a living for over 40 years doing what I love to do; promoting the great game of golf, getting beginners hooked on the game and helping golfers of all skill levels play better and enjoy the game more. It’s a blessing beyond belief and there’s no desire to retire. Reason for running for the board Having been a PGA Member since 1980, with nearly 30 years in the Colorado Section and 10+ years working in other PGA Sections, including: Indiana, North Florida, Rocky Mountain, Southwest and Southern California, my background experience includes positions at several private clubs, resorts, daily fee and municipal facilities, both year round and seasonal. Being thankful and indebted to several influential mentors that made a significant impact on my golf career as well as my life, I feel a sense of duty and have a desire to pay back

Director of Instruction/Director of Sales (1990-1991) Angel Park Golf Course (Las Vegas, NV) Director of Instruction (1987-1990) Torrey Pines Golf Course (San Diego, CA) Teaching Professional (1987) Teton Pines Country Club (Jackson Hole, WY) Teaching Professional (1984-1987) Jackson Hole Golf Club (Jackson Hole, WY) Teaching Professional (1980-1984) Columbine Country Club (Denver, CO) Assistant Professional (1979) Denver Country Club (Denver, CO) Volunteer Experience Hosted Free Golf Clinics, provided Free Golf Lessons and participated in charity events for: Michael Jordan’s United Negro College Fund Charity Event with Michael Jordan & Calvin Peete San Diego County Junior Golf Association sponsored by Cobra Golf Bob Hope Desert Classic with Payne Stewart sponsored by Chrysler Desert Junior Golf Association sponsored by GGI National Organization for Women sponsored by Mayor of San Diego continued on page 19

these seminars and training sessions. I would not only help recruit leaders from our industry, but from across multiple industries to help educate and inspire our membership to be the best golf professionals in the world. We are lucky in golf to work closely with the best minds in the business world, and much of their knowledge can benefit us in the golf business. The golf industry is booming with an overload of new products, apps, and services. From tournament software to coaching platforms, there are hundreds of ways the modern golf professional can develop new and improved services to offer. As one of the best sections in the country, our professionals should be informed and educated on how to use today’s hottest tools to secure their positions as the leaders of the game of golf. Membership Elected to membership September 9, 2008 Education New Mexico State University – BBA – PGA Golf Management Program Work Experience First Assistant Golf Professional Colorado Golf Club – Parker, CO 2013 - Present

Anthony Vitale, PGA Assistant Professional, Colorado Golf Club What should members know about you? I am from Albuquerque, NM but have been visiting Colorado since I was a kid. I have been fortunate to work all over the US and the world, but Colorado is a place I have always wanted to settle down. Outside of golf, I enjoy cycling, hiking, swimming and skiing. I recently got married to my wife Kristen who worked for the LPGA during the Solheim Cup in 2013. Reason for running for the board I have always had great pride in my membership with the PGA, and becoming more involved at the section level is something I am excited to do. One of my mentors once told me, “If we run this golf season the same way we ran last golf season, we better start looking for new jobs next golf season.” This drives my passion to continually improve and develop the best services and golf programs for my members. We have a phenomenal Section Staff, who provide a great selection of educational opportunities to our membership. My number one goal as a Board Member would be to push for continued support of

Spring Business Meeting Issue

Get to Know the Candidates

First Assistant Golf Professional (2008-2012) The Ridgewood Country Club – Paramus, NJ Assistant Golf Professional (2009) Cape Kidnappers – Hawkes Bay, New Zealand Independent Golf Instructor/Rules Official (2008) PGA Chile Media/Rules Official (2006-2007) PGA Junior Series - PGA of America Volunteer Experience CSU’s Little Shop of Physics – Boys & Girls Club of Metro Denver Friday Play Days - First Tee of Green Valley Ranch Section Experience VA Hospital Visit 2017

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Get to Know the Candidates

Resort and Military golf, I believe I would bring a well-balanced perspective to the Board that represents a large majority of our Membership. I also believe my knowledge and experience in working and partnering with numerous private sector and government agencies at the decision making levels throughout my career would prove to be value added to the Board. Membership Elected to membership July 1, 1997 Education University of Ipswich, Suffolk, England (U.K.) – HND Business & Finance Work Experience Director, Family & Morale, Welfare & Recreation USAG Fort Carson, CO. (2013 – present) Business Operations Director (2011-2013) USAG Fort Carson, CO. Senior Project Manager (2010) Rock Island Arsenal Golf Club - United States Army Garrison (USAG) Rock Island Arsenal, Rock Island, IL General Manager/Co-Asset Manager (2007-2009) Terre Blanche Golf Club and Domaine de Terre Blanche - Provence, France

Mike O’Donnell, PGA, MP Director of Family & Morale, Welfare & Recreation United States Army Garrison Fort Carson, CO What should members know about you? I was born in Texas, grew up in England, have dual citizenship (U.S. and British), and have worked in the U.K., Germany, France and the U.S. I enjoy spending time with family, and like to fish, ski, golf, and spend time in the great outdoors whenever possible. I am a long time Arsenal F.C. supporter (English Premier League). Reason for running for the board Having been affiliated with the Colorado PGA for the past 5 years, and having developed a strong appreciation for how our Section leads by example and influences change, I now have a desire to serve. Having worked in varying capacities of responsibility in all four sectors of our profession; Public, Private,

Director of Golf (2005-2007) Four Seasons Golf Resort and Spa – Domaine de Terre Blanche, Provence, France Director of Family & Morale, Welfare & Recreation (2003-2005) 411th BSB - Heidelberg, Germany Business Operations Director (2002-2003) 411th BSB - Heidelberg, Germany Director of Golf/General Manager (2001-2002) Heidelberg Golf Club – 411th Base Support Battalion (BSB), Heidelberg, Germany Director of Golf/General Manager (1998-2001) Wind Creek Golf Course - Sheppard AFB, Wichita Falls, TX Head Golf Professional (1997-1998) Woodlawn Golf Course - Ramstein AFB, Germany Director of Instruction (1996-1997) Woodlawn Golf Couse - Ramstein AFB, Germany Assistant Golf Professional (1994-1996) Woodlawn Golf Course - Ramstein Air Force Base (AFB), Germany continued to page 19

around others. I think they have taught me more than i ever could teach them. I would love to continue to help others if i can. Membership Elected to membership July 1, 1992 Work Experience Director of Golf Instruction and Player Development Cheyenne Shadows Golf Club (Ft. Carson, CO) 2009 to present Head Golf Professional/Manager Head of Promotions Culture Fish Media (American/Chinese Based Company) 2008-2009 Head Golf Professional/General Manager (2004- 2008) Sumo Golf Village (Florence, CO) Head Golf Professional/President (2001-2004) Quicktips Ent, a golf software company Mini Tour Player and Manager 1998-2001 Tranex, an electronics company Head Golf Professional (1995-1998) Cherokee Ridge Golf Course (Colorado Springs, CO)

Paul Surniak, PGA Director of Golf Instruction and Player Development Cheyenne Shadows Golf Course What should members know about me. Family is the most important thing to me. outside of Golf i enjoy many things including Movies, good food, Fishing, scuba diving and pretty much anything that has to do with the outdoors.

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Volunteer Experience Work with Evens Army Hospital in the pain clinic bringing golf into their lives. Special needs children on Fort Carson 2008 Senior US open at Braodmoor Teaching Clinic Various HOPE and Wounded Warrior events Awards and Recognition Colorado PGA Military Pillar award In supporting our Military Warrior Transition Battalion (WTB) in recognition or contribution and providing outstanding support to the WTB Mountain Mover Award in recognition to supporting the soldiers and their families on Fort Carson DFWMR Commitment to Excellence award

Reason for running for the board I love being involved in things, helping others and learning new things. I believe i can bring a unique view to the table with my work with the military. Not many have seen and worked with the people i have seen over the last 7 years. Teaching golfing to individuals that have lost arms, legs, fingers. People who have had traumatic brain injury and have difficulty even being

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Get to Know the Candidates

resorts. One of the most impactful ways I can think of to help the Section that has always been in my corner, is to now share the knowledge I’ve gained wherever and whenever it may be needed as a new Board Member and hopefully be an ongoing source of support for my fellow Professionals and apprentices as our Section grows and moves forward. Thank you for this opportunity, thank you for the warm welcome home, and thank you for your vote. Membership Elected to membership March 20, 1998 Education Judson University, Elgin, IL – Education Major – ’86 – ‘89 Oklahoma State University – Sociology – ’90-‘92 Work Experience Director of Golf Club Operations (2016 – Present) Sonnenalp Club – Edwards, CO Timbers Resorts - Resort Manager - One Steamboat Place – Steamboat Springs, CO (2009-2016) Operations Manager – Hokuala – Kauai, HI

Jim Miller, PGA Director of Golf Club Operations Sonnenalp Club What should members know about you? My wife Michele and I will have been married 25 years this September. We are officially empty nesters! My son Jake (22) is pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Nebraska and my daughter Jenna (18) is a freshman at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego. I was born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin. Our dog’s name is Raji (because, at the time, it was the only Green Bay Packer name that worked with a girl). Reason for running for the board I feel uniquely blessed and privileged to be back in golf, back in the PGA, and back in the Colorado Section. I thought that my career path had taken me away from the game of golf, but has now made a full circle turn and has brought me, literally and figuratively, back “home”. The Colorado Section was always there for me as a young Golf Professional and I have been lucky to work with some incredible PGA mentors. I can never fully repay the Section or my mentors for their help in my career and the generous imparting of their wisdom and guidance. I have had very diverse professional experiences in Operations and Management that spans private, semi-private and resort golf; as well as the world of private residence clubs and destination

Director of Golf and Club Manager (2001-2008) Catamount Ranch & Club – Steamboat Springs, CO Assistant Golf Professional (1994-2001) Castle Pines Golf Club – Castle Pines, CO The Vintage Club – Indian Wells, CA (1992-1994) Outside Service Supervisor Waiter, Bar Tender, Assistant Maître D’, Locker Room Attendant, Fore Caddie, Golf Outside Services, & Course Maintenance Crew (1988-1994) Castle Pines Golf Club – Castle Pines, CO Volunteer Experience Current member of the Edwards, Colorado Rotary Club Play by play voice of the Steamboat Springs High School boys and girls basketball teams on KTYV 98.9 and SteamboatRadio.com (2010 – Present) President of the Whiteout Club Volleyball Board – (2012-2014) Served on the Yampa Valley Community Foundation Board Served on the Steamboat Youth Hockey Association Board Former basketball coach for my daughters city league teams and my son’s city and AAU teams Section Experience Have not yet had the privilege, but I am excited for my first opportunity. Awards/Recognition 2007 Colorado PGA Private Merchandiser of the Year

continued from page 14 (Dennis Murray, PGA)

Play Golf America sponsored by PGA of America GET GOLF READY sponsored by PGA America Colorado Open Marathon: 1995 - 1998 Faculty Member for PGA Playing & Teaching Workshops: • TPC of Cromwell, CT • PGA National GC, FL • Sea Palms Resort, GA • Angel Park GC, NV Colorado Section PGA Free Golf Lessons at Burt Chevrolet Denver Golf Expo Donated Free Golf Lessons to Colorado PGA Golf Foundation Fort Carson event played with members of Armed Forces Children’s Hospital at Sanctuary Section Experience Assisted Dave Stockton with PGA Junior Golf Camp in Ft. Collins Guest Speaker at PGA Teaching & Coaching Summit at The Broadmoor Served on Section Tournament Committee Started Section Senior Tournament Committee/served as Chairman Started CO Section Senior Match Play Championship Started US KIDS GOLF Tour in CO Hosted CO Section Championship, Colorado Cup matches and 7 CGA Match Play Championships at Bear Creek GC, brought Senior Section Championship to The Ridge and Senior Match Play Championship to Fox Acres CC, hosted by Steve Lind Awards/Recognition 1979 Rocky Mountain Open Champion 1982 Colorado Section PGA Player of the Year 1983 Colorado Cup Team Captain 1987 Rocky Mountain Section PGA Champion 1989 PGA Distinguished Service Award 1990 Southern Nevada PGA Champion 2002 Wyoming Senior Open Co-Champion with Tim Brauch 2015 Colorado PGA Teacher of the Year

continued on from page 13 (Scott Erwin, PGA) Director of Golf (1983 – 1987) Las Colinas Sports Club (Dallas, TX) Director of Golf (1979 – 1983) Canyon Hotel Resort (Palm Springs, CA) Head Instructor (1976 - 1979) Los Angeles Country Club (Los Angeles, CA) Canadian Tour (1975) South African Tour (1974 – 1975) Asian Tour (1973) South African Tour (1972-1973) Awards/Recognition 2015 West Chapter Bill Strausbaugh Award recipient 2014 West Chapter Warren Smith Award recipient I was selected as a Captain for the People to People Sports Committee. The People to People Sports Committee was started by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 to spread goodwill around the world. Each team consisted of a Golf Professional (Captain), a tour guide who spoke five languages fluently and 16 couples invited to participate. Each trip was 28 to 30 days long. I was selected as Captain on five trips: Europe, Scandinavia, The British Isles, and Australia and New Zealand twice. Two time PGA Champion Paul Runyan and Eddie Merrins from Bel Air Country club also served as Captains for the People to People Sport Committee on several trips.

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Section Experience Board Member, Colorado PGA 2014 – 2017. Board Member of the Midwest Chapter of Club Managers Association

continued from page 16 (Mike O’Donnell, PGA) Deputy Golf Course Superintendent (1992-1994) Fornham Park Country Club - Suffolk, England Assistant Golf Professional (1991-1992) Haggin Oaks Golf Complex - Sacramento, CA Volunteer Experience Panel Member for Global Business of Golf – PGA Show, Orlando, FL U.S. Olympic Committee’s and The Colorado PGA - Finding Leaders Among Minorities Everywhere (FLAME) program Junior Golf - Haggin Oaks GC, Woodlawn GC, Wind Creek GC, Heidelberg GC and Terre Blanche GC Section Experience Unaffiliated (Outside of Continental United States) PGA – PAT Examiner (2002 – 2004) Colorado PGA Military Affairs Committee (2013 – present) Awards/Recognition Department of the Army - Commanders Award for Civilian Service – Heidelberg, Germany (2005), Fort Carson, CO (2011 and 2014)

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Take the PGA Golf Professional Compensation Survey Earn up to two (2) Member Service Requirement (MSR) credits for completing the 2017 PGA Golf Professional Compensation Survey ... The PGA requests your participation in helping to ensure that one of our Association's most powerful employment tools remains effective for you and other PGA Professionals.

By completing the 2017 PGA Golf Professional Compensation Survey by March 31, 2017, you can receive up to two (2) Member Service Requirement (MSR) credits. MSR credit is automatically applied upon completion of the survey with a summary of your responses available for your records. In an effort to continuously improve the survey experience for our members, we have streamlined

As a reminder, all survey responses are treated confidentially with results being reported only if there are five or more responses. To ensure your confidentiality, results continue to be shared in an aggregated format and not by individual. Your participation is key to ensuring that your Section's compensation information is valid and meaningful. Your support of this important PGA initiative is greatly appreciated.

Heritage at Westmoor Now Walnut Creek Golf Preserve K

nown as one of the most innovative municipalities on the entire Front Range, the City of Westminster once again made Colorado history with the introduction of the state’s first golf preserve. Opened in 1999, the former Heritage Golf Course at Westmoor, owned and operated by the City, will be officially renamed Walnut Creek Golf Preserve in early April 2017. According to Walnut Creek’s Head Golf Professional Brian Carlson, the new moniker is more than just a simple name change. “When we first opened to the public nearly 18 year ago, we immediately became well known for our unique, natural setting,” said Brian. “While we’ve always enjoyed our reputation as one of the most scenic and affordable public courses in Colorado, over time we’ve strengthened our commitment to sustainability as well as the preservation of the unique biodiversity evident

many areas. Ideally, this will direct you to only answer questions that are relevant to your position.

amongst our native flora and fauna. The new name, Walnut Creek Golf Preserve, more accurately captures what golfers experience when they play our course—a chance to enjoy a challenging, championship course while exploring one of Colorado’s most naturally pristine landscapes.” Part of the course’s new brand is a new logo, first conceptualized by an outside design firm but redesigned by City of Westminster’s Graphic Designer, Adrian Newman. The new logo features an exaggerated “w” that represents flowing water, mountains, and rippling wind. Underneath the “w” is the letter “c,” which has been stylized to mimic the

Scott Named Director of UCCS PGA-PGM Program P

GA Professional Adam Scott has been named the Director of the PGA-PGM program at the University of Colorado – Colorado Springs. Scott, received a bachelor of business administration degree in marketing and professional golf management in 2007, and a master of business administration degree in 2010, both from Mississippi State University (MSU). He most recently served as the Assistant Director of the MSU PGA Golf Management program. Prior to joining the MSU PGA Golf Management staff, Adam worked at the Mississippi State University Golf Course in Starkville, MS ; and Pebble Beach Golf Links in Monterey, CA . Adam has extensive knowledge in golf club repair and design as well as customer relations. Adam has served as the Communication Chair for the Gulf States PGA Section. He represented the Mississippi PGA Team in the Mississippi Cup matches (2009)

and has represented the Mississippi Team in the Mackel Cup Matches (2009, 2010). Adam has dedicated much of his time at Mississippi State to making the students better at the game of golf through instruction and player development. He has attended a variety of golf instructional seminars to enhance his knowledge of the golf swing, including the 2013 & 2015 Teaching & Coaching Summit at the PGA Merchandise Show.

10 Earn Platinum Awards from Association of Golf Merchandisers

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Colorado PGA News

Colorado was well represented when the Association of Golf Merchandisers announced their 2017 Platinum Award Winners. To be considered for the award, courses were invited to submit golf shop nominations. Entries were then judged by an impartial panel on a number of categories, including creative ideas, revenue-generating initiatives, promotions and visual displays. In all, ten facilities earned the coveted award. They are: •

Beaver Creek Golf Club | Avondale, Colorado

•

Castle Pines Golf Club | Castle Rock, Colorado

•

Cherry Creek Country Club | Denver,Colorado

•

Cherry Hills Country Club | Cherry Hills Village, Colorado

•

Denver Country Club | Denver, Colorado

•

Telluride Golf Club | Telluride, Colorado

•

The Broadmoor Golf Shop | Colorado Springs, Colorado

•

The Club at Flying Horse | Colorado Springs, Colorado

•

The Country Club at Castle Pines | Castle Rock, Colorado

•

Valley Country Club | Centennial, Colorado

The AGM is an international, professional association of golf-related merchandisers and vendors. Members include golf professionals, buyers, merchandisers, students, club managers, owners and suppliers to the golf industry. Headquartered in Arizona, the AGM is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation founded in 1989 and governed by a 19-member volunteer Board of Directors. All winners were recognized during the AGM’s Annual Retail Conference in Orlando, Fla. on Tuesday, January 24th, 2017.

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PGA Junior League Golf Grows to Record-Number 36,000 Participants in 2016 Consumer Registration Now Open

GA Junior League Golf featured a record-setting 36,000 participants across 2,900 teams nationwide last year, led by the more than 2,000 PGA and LPGA Professionals who served as Captains. The growth represents a 300 percent increase from the 9,000 kids who participated on 740 teams nationwide just three years prior. “PGA Junior League Golf continues to be one of the most dynamic, youth-focused initiatives led by the PGA of America,” said PGA President Paul Levy. “Thanks to the leadership of PGA and LGPA Professionals nationwide, we expect this exponential growth to continue in 2017.” The foundational youth growth-of-the-game program of the PGA of America, PGA Junior League Golf offers boys and girls—ages 13 and under of all abilities—a fun, social and inclusive opportunity to learn and play golf in a recreational team setting with their friends, complete with numbered jerseys. PGA and LPGA Professionals serve exclusively as Captains, providing kids with expert coaching and instruction. With parents and family members encouraged to assist as coaches and volunteers, PGA Junior League Golf involves the entire family and introduces them to an all-ages sport they can play and enjoy together for a lifetime. “It’s tremendous to see PGA and LPGA Professionals utilize PGA Junior League Golf in their work leading the charge to grow golf among our youth,” said Levy. “The developmental nature of the program is very welcoming. Captains are not only teaching the game but also the important character skills and values inherent in golf that kids will carry through life.” PGA Junior League Golf utilizes a two-person scramble format for competition, which reinforces the team concept and creates a nurturing environment for learning the game. Teams play four, nine-hole matches in a game; Captains can substitute players every three holes, allowing everyone on the team a chance to participate. Teams typically play between four-to-six games in the regular season, which runs from April 1- July 31. Following the regular season, 10-player all-star teams

are formed from a combination of players in each league. Teams move through a series of sub-regional competitions to advance to one of eight regional competitions held across the country. Eight regional champions advance to the PGA Junior League Golf Championship, to be held for the second year at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona, Nov. 16-19. Last year, PGA of America, Grayhawk Golf Club and National Car Rental partnered with Golf Channel to air a two-hour, primetime special highlighting the 2016 PGA Junior League Golf National Championship presented by National Car Rental. The program also has the support of some of golf’s biggest names, including Rory McIlroy, Michelle Wie, Rickie Fowler and Lexi Thompson, who serve as Official Ambassadors for PGA Junior League Golf. PGA Junior League Golf is the flagship internal program for the youth pillar of PGA REACH, the charitable foundation of the PGA of America. PGA REACH helps ensure that youth in need have access to PGA Junior League Golf by removing cost-associated barriers. “PGA Junior League Golf is for everyone, and we are committed to providing all kids the opportunity to learn and play,” said Ryan Cannon, Senior Director of PGA REACH. Registration for the 2017 season opened Feb. 1. Consumers can visit PGAJLG.com to learn more, search for programs by ZIP code and register online.

Because everyone loves free tickets ... Do you love attending golf events as much as you love teaching the game and bringing golfers to your facility? If so, be sure to take advantage of the complimentary tickets offered by our industry partners. NOTE: Complimentary access to The Masters, The Open Championship, USGA, PGA Tour and LPGA tournaments is determined by their respective organizations on an annual basis. Masters: 2017 Masters - April 3-9; Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia As a courtesy extended by Augusta National; Class A PGA Members, Life Members and Master Professional Members only (this offer is not extended to Class F, Inactive, Retired Member nor Apprentices). No spouse or families (including Practice Rounds). Must show Membership Card and Photo I.D. each day. Go to North Gate off of Berckmans Road, follow signage to PGA Booth located to the far right of the ticket pavilion to receive daily ticket. NOTE: Daily tickets are not available to purchase for spouse. Ticket Information (706) 667-6700. themasters.com USGA: 2017 U.S. Open - June 12-18; Erin Hills, Erin, Wisconsin As a courtesy extended by the USGA; Class A PGA Members, Life Members and Master Professional Members. No spouse or family members (PGA Members only; this offer is not extended to Apprentices). PGA Members who gain complimentary access may bring juniors. Age 13-17 will be charged the daily rate for that day. Age 12 or under will receive complimentary junior tickets (maximum 2 per day). Must show Membership Card and Photo I.D. each day. Go to Will Call to pick up daily ticket. Ticket Information (800) 698-0661. usopen.com 2017 U.S. Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open, U.S. Senior Open, U.S. Amateur - As a courtesy extended by the USGA; Class A PGA Members, Life Members and Master Professional Members and spouse or guest. (PGA Members only; this offer is not extended to Apprentices). Must show Membership Card and Photo I.D. each day. Go to Will Call to pick up daily ticket. Ticket Information (908) 234-2300. ussenioropen.com

Royal & Ancient: 2017 Open Championship - July 17-23; Royal Birkdale GC, Southport, England Class A PGA Members, Life Members and Master Professional Members. No spouse or families (PGA Members only; this offer is not extended to Apprentices). PGA Members may purchase a daily ticket at the pay gate when they arrive for their own use. To obtain their refund they should register at the PGA Member Marquee within the spectator village, with their current Membership card, and where necessary documentation will be issued for them to take to the on-site banking unit. Only one entry ticket per day can be claimed and member must claim and get the money back on the same day. Please refund your tickets at the banking unit as soon as possible and certainly before 5.00 p.m. and 3.00 p.m. on the final day. Refunds cannot be issued after the event. Ticket Information +44 (0) 1334-460000. theopen.com

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Attend PGA, USGA, PGA Tour, WGC and LPGA Events for Free

2017 PGA Tour Events Class A PGA Members and accompanying immediate family (spouse, children and PGA Memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents). (PGA Members only; this offer is not extended to Apprentices). Must show Membership Card and Photo I.D. each day. Go to Main Gate to pick up daily ticket. Ticket Information (904) 285-3700. pgatour.com World Golf Championships Class A PGA Members only. No spouse or family members. Must show Membership Card and Photo I.D. each day. Go to Main Gate to pick up daily ticket. Ticket Information (904) 285-3700. pgatour.com LPGA Events PGA Members and Apprentices. Card holder only. No spouse or family. Show membership card and photo I.D. on a daily basis. Go to Main Gate to pick up daily ticket. Ticket Information (386) 274-6200. lpga.com

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PGA HOPE Training Returning April 12, 2017

The Colorado PGA is teaming up with PGA REACH to provide specialized training to our PGA Professionals on the PGA Foundation's PGA H.O.P.E. program. PGA/LPGA Master Professional Judy Alvarez (www.judyalvarez.com) for an immersive educational opportunity on April 12, 2017 at Plum Creek Golf Courese. Attendees will be trained on the best and most effective methods for coaching wounded warriors, veterans, and those with physical limitations. Students will be better prepared to engage the veteran communities in which they serve and engage in PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) programming. The session will be a combination of classroom and practical, hands-on training with veteran volunteers.

Online Opportunities Abound LPGA Teaching HER Online Course Self-paced instructional course created to help golf professionals better understand how women learn and how to teach them the game for greater success and enjoyment. 4 PGA Required credits

Update PGA.org Profile As a way to promote increased engagement with PGA. org, Members who update their PGA.org profile will receive one (1) MSR credit which applies to the Total MSR category. 1 Non-PGA Required credit Mizuno Product TrainingTo help you understand all that Mizuno's golf products have to offer to your customers, Mizuno has created this easy to use online training portal. By viewing each of these short videos and answering a few follow up questions, you will be fully informed on the latest Mizuno products as well as what makes our Mizuno Performance Fitting System the best in the industry. 1 PGA Required credit Cleveland Golf / Srixon Product Training Cleveland Golf / Srixon is offering online product training that is a concise program that contains product information, fitting tips and sales concepts. 3 PGA Required credits

We will be joined by recreational therapists from the local VA hospitals who will be providing insight on the therapeutic and rehabilitation benefits of golf for our Wounded Warriors and Veterans. The afternoon session will be attended by volunteer veterans with disabilities who will help to provide hands-on teaching experience for the attendees.

Golf Scorecards This is a free hour-long online course eligible for 1 PGA Education Credit. The course goes over each aspect of the scorecard individually, covering everything from how to display combo tees on your grid to sending color information to your designer. To watch â&#x20AC;&#x153;Principles of Scorecard Designâ&#x20AC;? click here: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=6G58HHHi0U8. 1 PGA Required credit Other MSR Opportunities Complimentary PGA Online Education - PGA Required Credits Available There are nine updated online video seminars worth 2 MSR credits in the PGA Required category upon successful completion (70%) of the assessment at the end of each seminar session. Each online seminar may only be taken once and there is just one assessment retake opportunity allowed. These online courses are being offered in order to supplement the in-person opportunities available through Section meetings, Section education and Player Development programming. To further understand the new credit requirements and distribution, please login to your PGA.org account. To submit any earned MSR credits not yet received, please fill out the MSR Reporting Form and return to the Section office.

continued from page 20

“c” in the Colorado state flag. Together, the letters are meant to represent a cattle brand in keeping with the course’s rustic theme. Underneath the graphics is the name of the course in a western-style typeface. For those unaware, the name “Walnut Creek” is named after the small tributary creek that traverses the golf course before joining the Big Dry Creek. The course has been designated a preserve because the course’s 215 acres are sustainably managed to preserve and support wildlife habitat. In fact, Walnut Creek Golf Preserve is home to more than 77 wildlife species as well as a staggering variety of native plants. The course’s bird population is particularly diverse; it’s not uncommon to see bald eagles, great horned owls, or one of the 50 other resident bird species while visiting. Walnut Creek Golf Preserve is much more than just a wildlife refuge—it’s also a model of sustainability. All of the course’s natural areas—which comprise more than half of the property—are non-irrigated and unmaintained aside from mowing once a year in the late fall or early winter for the sole purpose of seed propagation. When the greens are irrigated, staff uses premium efficiency equipment and relies

upon state-of-the-art monitoring equipment to only replace the exact amount of moisture lost due to sun and wind. Caretakers plant native species around the clubhouse, relying heavily upon drought-resistant vegetation. Finally, as a result of a goal of producing zero waste, Walnut Creek’s robust recycling program currently diverts more than 90% of its trash stream into recycling. According to Golf Course Superintendent Paul Sibley, Walnut Creek Golf Preserve’s commitment to sustainability and the environment have been noticed. “Just three years after the course opened to the public, we were proud to be designated an Audubon Certified Signature Sanctuary,” said Paul. “This honor has only been bestowed on one other course in Colorado. We like to say that our sweeping mountain views, gently rolling hills, abundance of wildlife, and picturesque wild prairie grasses allow you to experience golf the way nature intended.”

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THE PRINCIPLES of SCORECARD DESIGN ONLINE COURSE NOW AVAILABLE PRESENTED BY

HOTTEST SCORECARD DESIGN VIDEO OF THE YEAR! It’s Even Eligible For a FREE PGA Education Credit!

HERE’S WHAT THE CRITICS ARE SAYING: “A real cinematic tour-de-force, the best scorecard video I’ve seen all year!”

“Mesmerizing.”

- RENEE MANGUS

(GSI Design Director)

- LISA KNOX

(GSI Assistant General Manager)

“Actually not as bad as I thought it would be.” - JOE MOUNT (GSI Sales & Customer Service Manager)

TOTALLY FREE AND ELIGIBLE FOR 1 PGA EDUCATION CREDIT!

1. Visit our website: www.golfscorecards.com

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2. Watch “Principles of Scorecard Design” where you’ll learn about everything from how to arrange your tees to sending color information to your designer

3. Follow link to assessment 4. Answer at least 9 out of 12 questions correctly 5. Receive 1 FREE PGA Education Credit

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Member Update

Route 411

An update on our Colorado PGA Members

Happy Birthday! February 1 Dustin D. Miller, PGA

February 2 Joe Little, PGA Brian C. Hodges, PGA Zachary E Abbruzzese February 3 David Karnel, PGA Roger Prenzlow, PGA Jim Sanborn, PGA Benjamin F. Kristopeit II, PGA February 4 Edward D. Leuppe II, PGA Christopher G. Culver, PGA David Noble, PGA Adam M. Scott, PGA Kyle A. Voska, PGA February 6 John A. Scappatura Jr., PGA Brad D. Bogard, PGA John J. Cassidy, PGA February 7 David W. Arbuckle, PGA David Baril, PGA Bill M. VerBrugge, PGA February 8 Pete A. Roach, PGA February 9 Martin L. Kauffman, PGA Rick A. Price, PGA Kelly P. Deimund, PGA Michael K. Melena, PGA February 10 Christopher T. Johnson, PGA Clarence Parry Jr., PGA Craig Stephens, PGA February 12 Paul O. Dalpes, PGA Michael B. Pope, PGA February 13 Thomas N. Thomas, PGA Daniel J Kane, PGA Thomas D. Begay, PGA

February 14 David H. Delin, PGA Peter M. Norwood, PGA Cody J. Stalcup, PGA February 15 Carlo F. Alaqua, PGA February 16 Grant E. McLaughlin, PGA Stephen R Horvey February 17 Scott R. Wells, PGA Holly J. Champion, PGA William R Eubanks February 18 Richard E. Ellefson, PGA February 19 Michael D. Johnson, PGA Val R. Heim Jr. Jr., PGA Jack L. Allen, PGA February 20 Jeffrey D. Hill, PGA Michael Bratcher, PGA Logan S. Beatty, PGA February 21 Alden Richards Jr., PGA February 22 Darren R. Szot, PGA Ben P. Welsh, PGA Stuart L. Spyker, PGA Jeffrey D. Martin, PGA February 24 Brian W. Dahmer, PGA Stephen P. Black, PGA Don L. Chavez, PGA David R. McCleave, PGA Mark T. McCarthy, PGA Chad W Rush Ben K. Honaman, PGA Ryan M. Wroblewski, PGA February 25 Joe Linnemeyer, PGA Shad A. Johnson, PGA

February 26 Ray Fielder, PGA Michael S. Marsili, PGA February 27 Eric J. Jensen, PGA Ronald W. Zwemke, PGA February 28 Cameron T. Morton, PGA March 1 Stuart Bruening, PGA March 2 Mark Kizzire, PGA March 3 Val Heim, PGA Jim Dargis, PGA Michael W. Allen March 4 Eric Schaupeter, PGA March 5 Tom Carricato, PGA Dale Douglass, PGA Bill Poirot, PGA Kevin Sauer, PGA Chance Semones, PGA Andrew Hedrick, PGA March 6 Jeffrey Wilcinski, PGA Gerard Lanser March 7 Alan Abrams, PGA Craig Palmer, PGA Benjamin Pennymon March 8 Vic Kline, PGA Zane Zwemke, PGA Ryan Treptow March 9 Tom Krause, PGA Randy Meyers, PGA March 10 Mike Fengler, PGA Cathy Matthews-Kane, PGA

March 12 Charles Curtis, PGA Reggie Sanchez, PGA Craig Salib March 13 Dick Dierker, PGA Larry Murphy, PGA Dan O’Shaughnessy, PGA March 14 Clayton Cole, PGA John Merrihew, PGA Brett Roberts, PGA Bud Gazaway, PGA March 15 Jim Fiala, PGA Ian Parham, PGA March 16 Bob Persichetti, PGA March 17 Tim Lollar, PGA Brian Carlson Patrick Grady

Junior Golf News

March 19 Bob Stallman, PGA Kenny Thayer, PGA Stacy Kleve, PGA Jordan O’Keefe Scott Sperry Phillip McCarthy, PGA Nick Warner March 20 Jeff Meeker, PGA March 21 Mike Kramer, PGA Jack Sommers, PGA Mark Pfingston, PGA March 22 Ted Apostolos, PGA Caleb Blass, PGA March 23 Donald Allen, PGA Brad Skupaka, PGA Austin Nichols Tyler Evenson March 24 Mark E. Bazley Shawn Wilcox, PGA David Hagan, PGA

March 25 Kendall Carson, PGA Stephen Bauerle, PGA Adam Finch, PGA Justin Cirbo, PGA Cade Hassel, PGA March 26 Thomas Nosewicz, PGA Charlie Cobb, PGA Patrick Reidy, PGA Dave Troyer, PGA Gary Hoffman, PGA Christopher Hyten March 28 Paul Schmeling March 29 Kenneth Anderson, PGA Ann Finke, PGA Tim Ausec, PGA Steve Mauser, PGA David Gapp March 30 James Hayden, PGA Shane Bertsch, PGA Justin Limon, PGA Cyrus Twete, PGA March 31 Dick Dorn, PGA JJ Jambor, PGA

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New Apprentices

Stephen M. Bidne | B-12 | University of Northern Colorado Brandon J Bucci | B-8 | West Woods Golf Club Austin J. Hernandez | B-8 | Lakewood Country Club Jerome M Roby | B-4 | Cheyenne Shadows GC@Ft Carson Ryan F. Smith | B-8 | Cherry Hills Country Club

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Quarter Century Feature Story

Dennis Fruchtl and Ann Finke at The Country Club of Colorado from the end of August into the fall working for Bill Majure. One day Bill pulled me outside and told me he thought I would be good asset to the Club and encouraged me to register as a PGA Apprentice. I had worked in the Bag room in High school and in the golf shop in college and it was basically the only job I had ever done. What makes you most proud about being a PGA Professional? What it means to be a PGA professional and the brand image of what the PGA stands for. The lifelong relationships with all the people that you cross paths with, from the members at clubs you served, to the professionals who mentored me, to the Assistants I worked closely with ,and finally the staff that I have had the pleasure to see grow into great people that have stayed and those who have left the industry. What golf facilities have you been employed at and in what capacity? Director of Golf & Club Operations (2015 - present) The Club at Ravenna, Littleton, CO Head Golf Professional (2008-2014) The Country Club at Castle Pines, Castle Pines Village, CO

George Kahrhoff, PGA Director of Golf The Club at Ravenna Where did you grow up? I was fortunate to grow up at a small rural community of 25,000 people in Grand Island Nebraska.

Assistant Golf Professional (1998 to 2003) Cherry Hills Country Club, Cherry Hills Village, CO Assistant Golf Professional (1988 to 1997) The Country Club at Colorado, Colorado Springs, Colorado

What was your first introduction to the game of golf? I started playing golf when I was 10 Years old. There was one private club in town and the club became my recreation during the summer months. The club had a pool, putting green, chipping green. driving range, golf course and I would spend my time with my friends at the pool and putting for nickels. I remember making enough of my friends to fund my Mountain Dew habit. I became more serious about golf between my 8th and 9th grade year. That August the bag room employees left the club to start high school football and I decided give up football and go to work cleaning clubs and picking range balls. This was the start of my golf career. Why did you choose to become a PGA Golf Professional? I graduated college in 1988 and was helping my friends

Director of Golf Operations (2004-2008) The Sonnenalp Golf Club, Edward, CO

What do you feel is the most meaningful contribution to the game of golf you have made? I believe in serving as an ambassador to the game of golf. I feel you have to make your facility available for others to experience. Every club I have been employed at, I have volunteered my time and reached out to all the associations and made sure the Club would host their events. When I was at the Sonnenalp Golf Club, we hosted the Vail Valley Scratch Match Play Championship, the Colorado Open, the West Chapter Championship and served on the West Chapter Board of Directors. The Country Club at Castle Pines hosted the CJGA Junior Stroke Play Championship, CWGA Mashie Championship and the Colorado PGA ProAssistant Championship (4). During that time I served on the Colorado PGA Board of Directors, Coordinated the CCCP membership volunteers at

What makes you most proud about being a PGA Professional? I am very proud to have established lifelong friendships with many of the members I have served over my 32 years in the Club industry. I continue to cherish these relationships, and I’m looking forward to making many more new friends in the years to come. What golf facilities have you been employed at and in what capacity? General Manager - (2006 - present) Colorado Springs Country Club, Colorado Springs, CO General Manager – (2001 – 2006) The Pinery Country Club, Parker, CO General Manager – (1999-2001) Heather Ridge Country Club, Aurora, CO Head Professional – (1994-1999) Heather Ridge Country Club, Aurora, CO Assistant Professional (1992 -1994) Heather Ridge Country Club, Aurora, CO Outside Services, Assistant Professional (1985 -1992) Heather Ridge Country Club, Aurora, CO

Kevin Sanger, PGA General Manager Colorado Springs Country Club Where did you grow up? I’m a Colorado native. I grew up with shared time in Kremmling and Grand Junction. What was your first introduction to the game of golf? My father introduced my brother, Kyle, and I to golf at Grand Lake Golf Club when we were teenagers. We used to love the driving range targets. They had huge wood cut out animals that we used to try to hit. This was very effective in creating fun for us junior golfers. However, we found greater joy in searching for a couple dozen golf balls every round out in the thousands of Lodge Pole Pines lining the fairways. Why did you choose to become a PGA Golf Professional? My father was a rancher in the Kremmling area, and at the end of the day, we would drive 45 minutes over to Steamboat Golf Club to play golf until dark. Ron and Linda Reif were the Golf Professionals at the time in Steamboat. They saw something they liked in me and asked me to come work for them around the Club. This began my journey 32 years ago.

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Assistant Professional (1985) Steamboat Golf Club, Steamboat Springs, CO What do you feel is the most meaningful contribution to the game of golf you have made? Two segments of the game that I feel have been meaningful to me and others is “making raving fans” and “helping others”. Raving fans – it’s been so rewarding to help people enjoy our industry more. From helping someone learn how to play better golf to being there for a child’s pool party or graduation or wedding or just helping our members grieve the loss of a beloved family member, I want to be remembered as the Pro that always showed up with a smile or a hug. Helping others - I’m so humbled and honored to have been selected as the 2015 Bill Strausbaugh Award winner. This award is about serving and mentoring others to achieve their goals. I do this by modeling a positive, professional and service first attitude. I’ve been so privileged to work with tremendous mentors and I’m pleased to have been able to pass along a few nuggets of encouragement and wisdom along my way. What hobbies do you have outside of golf? My most cherished hobby is spending time with my wife, Shawn, and our boys, Dylan and Brandon. Also,

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caddying or working at a golf club. What makes you most proud about being a PGA Professional? Many things: The credibility and constant improvement of the game by of the PGA of America, being in a position to promote the game, the terrific friendships, being able to help others and help people meet their golfing needs and goals, and playing great golf courses which are the best sporting venues in the world. What golf facilities have you been employed at and in what capacity? Again it started as an eleven year old caddy at Oakland Hills CC. I caddied at several different upscale clubs in Chicago, New Jersey, and South Carolina. I have been employed at Glenmoor CC in Cherry Hills Village for almost 31 years. What do you feel is the most meaningful contribution to the game of golf you have made? Promoting and being an ambassador to the greatest game in the world. Also being in a position to help others.

Steve Beach, PGA Director of Instruction Glenmoor Country Club Where did I grow up? I was born just outside NYC in Englewood, NJ. I had a transitory childhood from Germany to the eastern half of the United States. I graduated from University of Denver in 1977. What was my first introduction to the game of golf? My maternal grandfather had me playing golf at age three. My formal introduction was as an eleven-year-old caddy at the famous Oakland Hills South course with the Head Professional and touring pro, Mike Souchak. There was a legion of fine tournament players at Oakland Hills CC and caddy day was really special. Why did you choose to become a PGA Professional? I realized after graduating University of Denver and attending the MBA program at CU Denver that I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t that turned-on by my studies and new I was passionate about golf; which makes sense because I enjoyed about a dozen years

What hobbies do you have outside of golf? Now that the skiing is behind me by 27 years, I spend most of my recreational time fly fishing. I have always enjoyed reading too. If you could have a dream foursome, who would it be and why? Easy! Arnold Palmer and any of my friends so they could enjoy the experience too. Arnold Palmer is one of the greatest humanitarians ever and probably the greatest promoter and ambassador the game has ever known.

What makes you most proud about being a PGA Professional? The face of America has transformed so much in the last 30 years but PGA Professionals have adapted beautifully and been able to preserve the integrity and significance of the game during this period of incredible change involving all aspects of our society. What golf facilities have you been employed at and in what capacity? General Manager/Head Professional (2012-present) Gypsum Creek Golf Course, Gypsum, CO Owner and Developer Landform Golf Development (2007-2012) Director of Development Brightwater Club (2004 – 2007) Vice President of Construction Kensington Partners (The Club at Cordillera) (19992004) Division Manager Paragon Consturction International (1997-1998) Assistant VP, Manager of Golf Division, Director of Construction, Director of Golf Services (and others) Kajima Engineering and Construction (1990-1997)

Tom Buzbee, PGA General Manager and Head Professional Gypsum Creek Golf Course Where did I grow up? I grew up in Pittsburgh, PA.

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Assistant Golf Professional Plum Creek Golf Course (1984-1985) Tournament Administrator, Teaching Professional Green Gables Country Club (1981-1984) Head Professional Brooks Golf Club (1977-1978)

What was my first introduction to the game of golf?

What do you feel is the most meaningful contribution to the game of golf you have made?

I had my start in the golf business as a teenage caddie in my hometown of Pittsburgh, PA. Green Oaks Country Club, a classic Donald Ross design, was my home course and the place where I learned to love the game of golf.

Knowing that I have been able to share this great game with so many beginners and kids in a way that provided them with a fun experience that brought them back for more is my most meaningful contribution.

Why did you choose to become a PGA Professional?

What hobbies do you have outside of golf?

I grew up and learned the game at Green Oaks Country Club and decided to turn my passion for the game into a career and spent the late 1970’s and early 1980’s as an assistant professional working at facilities in Iowa, Nebraska and Colorado in the summer and on the maintenance crew at world renown Sea Island Golf Club on St. Simons Island, GA in the winters.

I love telling stories (occasional patience required by staff members) and sharing the game with whoever walks in the door at Gypsum Creek. Outside of golf, I love skiing deep powder snow in unusual places. If you could have a dream foursome, who would it be and why? It would have to be my son, Evan, my mentor, Paul Runyan and Ch Chi Rodriguez; that guy knows how to have fun!

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Quarter Century Feature Story continued from page 28

the Senior PGA Championship, Solheim Cup, US Amateur and BMW Championship. At Ravenna, we host the annual NCAA Division II Regional Crossover, the CGA Senior Match Play Championship, the CGA Men’s Match Play Championship, CWGA Mashie Championship and Colorado PGA Pro-Pro-Pro and Pro-Superintendent. What hobbies do you have outside of golf? I really enjoy spending time following Nebraska Football or outdoors with my father and two boys Mitchell (15) and Trey (11); in a goose pit, duck blind, deer stand, elk hunting or chasing upland game. If you could have a dream foursome, who would it be and why? It would be my Father James C Kahrhoff Sr. and my sons Trey & Mitchell at Augusta National.

continued from page 28 I enjoy fishing, hiking, hunting, sitting at the beach, learning something new, reading fiction and non-fiction, building photo albums of amazing memories, woodworking, collecting old coins and traveling. If you could have a dream foursome, who would it be and why? Ben Hogan – I would love to thank him for writing his book “Five Lessons the Modern Fundamentals of Golf”. This book was my start in golf and teaching. Plus, well it’s Ben – who wouldn’t relish an opportunity to play with him. My father Carl – He was the best. Always positive, encouraging, unassuming, gracious, authentic and he was never out of a hole. One round in Arizona, he finished a hole with a 16-inch band of Jumping Cholla stuck to his leg. He never complained, didn’t slow down pace of play and he beat me on that hole. By the way an 8 and a 9 iron are perfect to use like tweezers and pluck those devil cacti out of your skin. Annika Sorenstam – She was my father’s favorite competitive athlete. I would enjoy watching him try to keep up with her amazing scoring capabilities. Also, she emulates class, professionalism, courage and has offered one of the best quotes for golf and life, “Forget about the bad stuff, move on, and just think positive”.

CoBank Colorado Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open Winner to Earn $50,000 Entire Purse to Double for Event by Gary Baines

As soon as the CoBank Colorado Open drastically raised its purse a year ago, a similar hike was virtually inevitable for the Colorado Women's Open. You could take it to the (Co)Bank. Almost exactly a year after the purse for the men's Open jumped to $250,000 -- with an amazing $100,000 going to the winner -- Colorado Open Golf Foundation officials announced a comparable increase, percentage-wise, for the CoBank Colorado Women's Open. Not coincidentally, CoBank has been the title sponsor for the Colorado Open championships since the beginning of 2016. For the 2017 women's tournament, set for Aug. 30Sept. 1 at Green Valley Ranch Golf Club in northeast Denver, first prize will more than quadruple -- to

$50,000 from $11,000 -- and the overall purse will double -- to $150,000. In both cases, those are records for a women's state/regional open and the $50,000 is considerably more than the winner receives for any 2017 event on the Symetra Tour, the LPGA's development circuit. "We're very excited that we're a big girls' game now," Colorado Open Golf Foundation CEO Kevin Laura said during Thursday's announcement at Topgolf in Centennial. Roughly $135,000 of the purse total will be devoted to the championship competition, with $15,000 (the same as in 2016) going for the pro-am. "This is the best state open and it's getting even better," said Denver's Becca Huffer, a two-time Colorado state high school champion who went on to win the 2013 Colorado Women's Open.

Roll Named Tournament Director of CoBank Colorado Open Championships PGA Professional Brandon Roll has taken over as the Tournament Director of the CoBank Colorado Open Championships. Roll previously served as the Director of Operations with the South Texas PGA. Brandon was born and raised in Portland, Oregon and his family developed his love for the game of golf. He graduated from the Professional Golf Management program at Penn State in 2004 and received his Class-A PGA Membership from the PGA of America in 2006. His career has included an internship at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, working with the Merchandise Department for The Masters, Assistant Professional at Kapalua - Plantation Course, Director of Operations for The Commerce Bank Championship (Champions Tour event), Assistant Operations Director for IMG, and the Tournament Director role with 3 PGA of America Sections (Central NY, Gulf States and Southern TX). Brandon joins the Colorado Open Golf Foundation as Tournament Director, most recently moving from Houston, TX and the Southern Texas PGA. Outside of work and family visits, his interest in community

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involvement took shape while living in New Orleans. Brandon was a project leader, board member, and Executive Committee member of the Young Leadership Council (a non-profit dedicated to developing leaders through community service in New Orleans). He was also President of the Penn State Alumni Chapter in New Orleans. During his time in Houston, he was a member of the Young Professional Toastmasters in Houston, and volunteered with the Penn State Alumni Houston Chapter. Brandon has family connections in Denver and Grand Junction, and his life is rounded out by his passion for the Portland Trail Blazers, Penn State Nittany Lions, and hours dedicated to yoga and an active lifestyle. Brandon plays out of Green Valley Ranch Golf Club.

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