Giving thanks and looking ahead

As the holiday season hits, I enjoy looking back at the past year and using that history to move forward. This year has been full of great events across the Central Plains region.

I would like to thank our members and chapters for their support. Earlier this year, GCSAA engaged in a comprehensive strategic planning session. That session looked at GCSAA's position within the golf industry and among our superintendents.

Field staff is a priority. We have made great progress with many of the chapters in this region, but also other chapters across the country.

In previous posts, I've touched on strategic planning sessions. This past year, within the Central Plains region alone, we held sessions with the Minnesota, Kansas and Heart of America chapters. We've conducted previous sessions with the Nebraska and Iowa chapters as well.

Last week, I was part of an excellent assistant superintendent education session with the Minnesota GCSA. More than 60 attendees were on hand. The event was held at a facility named "Pinz," which, as the name implies, is a bowling alley. But in addition to the regular lanes for public play, we had access to our own 10-lane alley and meeting room. Presentations focused on leadership, personal and professional development and becoming more effective in your career.

Another excellent event was held last August in Nebraska, where each year, the chapter hosts an event in the western part of the state. There were great round-table education sessions and discussions, followed by a social and golf event.

The key to the success of both events was holding them at unique, quality locations.

There are plenty of upcoming events that we are looking forward to.  I will post in more detail soon, but kudos to the Iowa GCSA as they help host the inaugural Iowa Golf Summit Feb. 27 near Des Moines. I will have the privilege to speak at the event. Darrell Crall, COO of the PGA of America, will discuss Golf 2.0 and Player Development. Rand Jerris of the USGA will discuss its Pace of Play initiative. I will discuss golf's positive impact on the environment and the recreational and economic importance of the game. Bill Withers from Wartburg College will discuss working together for facility success.

It is great to see local and national allied golf organizations coming together to promote the game and the industry. We can only be successful by working together.

There are great things going on in our region. I encourage you to participate in your chapter events. Have a great holiday season, and please reach out to me if you have any questions.