COVID-19

Getting Back2Golf Guidelines and Operational Playbook (04/29/2020)

Dear PGA Member,

As states and communities across the country begin to re-open their economies, we are excited to share with you, Back2Golf, which was put together in collaboration with our Allied Golf Organizations. This plan has been reviewed and is in alignment with the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Back2Golf is a comprehensive plan that allows golf to reopen where closed and remain open responsibly while observing recommended social distancing guidelines.

This plan, which includes “Back2Golf Guidelines” and a corresponding “Back2Golf Operations Playbook” is based on the operational underpinnings in “Guidelines Opening Up America Again” published by the White House and the CDC. It includes a specific, three-phased approach to golf that aligns with their social distancing guidelines for the broader economy. Each phase includes medically endorsed operational protocols when it comes to social distancing, the sanitation of physical facilities and the health of you and your staff which are specifically outlined in the “Operations Playbook”.

We will continue to work closely with our Allied Golf Organizations and the CDC to update the “Operations Playbook” when appropriate to provide you with the most up-to-date and relevant information. Please look for these updates each week in our “Five Things To Know” email.

To learn more regarding each phase, please read through the “Back2Golf Guidelines” document here and the “Back2Golf Operations Playbook” also hosted on PGA.org here.

Best,

John Easterbrook, PGA
Chief Membership Officer
PGA of America

(05/22/2020) Golf Emergency Relief Fund Updates

Dear Member,

As you are aware, in response to the severe challenges impacting golf communities nationwide, the Golf Emergency Relief Fund was established to provide short-term financial assistance to certain individuals facing significant financial hardship, with an initial focus on those impacted by COVID-19.

As we have seen over the last few weeks – as our communities respond to COVID-19 – the more we are forced to stay apart, the more we are reminded of how connected we all truly are. We are pleased to announce that E4E Relief awarded in excess of $4 million to over 3,300 individuals during Phase 1 of the Golf Emergency Relief Fund.

Initiated through a lead pledge by the PGA of America, the fund will continue to provide grants to industry professionals, including golf association members, employees of local/state golf associations, caddies and certain professionals playing on developmental tours to help offset financial hardships, such as basic needs, living and medical expenses.

Applications for Phase 2 grants begin on Wednesday, May 27. Phase 2 is another opportunity to assist those economically impacted by the pandemic. Eligible workers will have the opportunity to apply for Phase 2 grants of up to $3,500. Individuals receiving grants through the first phase will be eligible to apply for grants in the second phase but the maximum amount an individual can receive in aggregate from the first and second phase is $3,500. Individuals who did not apply for Phase 1, and those who were denied during Phase 1, are still eligible to apply for Phase 2.

The second phase will have a longer application process and distribute grants as reviewed and approved by E4E Relief on a rolling basis. Documentation needed will vary based on the type of expenses requested. Although Phase 2 is a needs-based analysis and not the same process as Phase I, grants will be approved on a rolling basis. Accordingly, applicants are encouraged to submit early in the process, and make all requested expense-related documentation available to E4E Relief as soon as possible.

The PGA’s contribution to the Golf Emergency Relief Fund included every member of the executive leadership team voluntarily reducing their compensation, and additionally, personal donations from members of the PGA Board of Directors have been pledged.

Please continue to refer to the application page on golf.e4erelief.org for additional information, questions and supplemental documentation required for Phase 2.

Please note that the distribution of funds for grants reviewed and approved by E4E Relief in Phase 1 of the Golf Emergency Relief Fund concluded on May 21, 2020.

It has been through the contributions and support of many throughout the golf industry, including Allied Associations, that the Golf Emergency Relief Fund has been such an important source of help for many in need.

Respectfully,

Suzy Whaley, PGA
President
PGA of America

Seth Waugh
CEO
PGA of America

(5/1/20) From Suzy and Seth: Back2Golf, PPC Update and More

We hope that you have enjoyed our weekly video updates. Our latest version features a Q&A on Back2Golf, an update on the 2020 PGA Professional Championship and helpful resources for PGA Professionals. You can view this week’s video by clicking here.

Note, you will need to be logged into PGA.org to view.

This will be our last video for the full membership for the time being as golf reopens and you get back to work. We will shift our focus to a Section-based approach for webinars and other related communication. As facilities reopen at different times and phases across the country, we want to make sure the messages are more localized for you based on what is happening in your particular geography.

Please check with your local section for the latest updates related to your area and continue to check our resources page on PGA.org for the most up-to-date information.

Most importantly, we wanted to let you know how much we appreciate you and how much we are inspired by you.

Thank you for all that you do for our sport and we look forward to seeing you all soon.

All our best,

Suzy and Seth

Getting Back2Golf Guidelines and Operational Playbook (04/29/2020)

Dear PGA Member,

As states and communities across the country begin to re-open their economies, we are excited to share with you, Back2Golf, which was put together in collaboration with our Allied Golf Organizations. This plan has been reviewed and is in alignment with the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Back2Golf is a comprehensive plan that allows golf to reopen where closed and remain open responsibly while observing recommended social distancing guidelines.

This plan, which includes “Back2Golf Guidelines” and a corresponding “Back2Golf Operations Playbook” is based on the operational underpinnings in “Guidelines Opening Up America Again” published by the White House and the CDC. It includes a specific, three-phased approach to golf that aligns with their social distancing guidelines for the broader economy. Each phase includes medically endorsed operational protocols when it comes to social distancing, the sanitation of physical facilities and the health of you and your staff which are specifically outlined in the “Operations Playbook”.

We will continue to work closely with our Allied Golf Organizations and the CDC to update the “Operations Playbook” when appropriate to provide you with the most up-to-date and relevant information. Please look for these updates each week in our “Five Things To Know” email.

To learn more regarding each phase, please read through the “Back2Golf Guidelines” document here and the “Back2Golf Operations Playbook” also hosted on PGA.org here.

Best,

John Easterbrook, PGA
Chief Membership Officer
PGA of America

(4/24/20) Member Update from Suzy and Seth: April 24, 2020

As your President and CEO, we continue to provide you comprehensive updates on what we are doing as an Association in our response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Our latest video highlights some of the great work being done in our sections and answers your questions about the Golf Emergency Relief Fund, the latest updates to (c)(6)s and (c)(7)s being ineligible for government funding and our plan for getting people back to golf in a safe and healthy way. You can view this week’s video by clicking here.

Note, you will need to be logged into PGA.org to view.

These videos are meant to address the issues that matter most to you all out in the field and provide resources that are available to you during this time of crisis. If you have a specific question, submit it here.

Please continue to check our resources page on PGA.org for the latest updates and information and continue to be safe, be healthy, be patient, be kind and be smart.

All our best,

Suzy and Seth

(4/17/20) Weekly Member Update from Suzy and Seth: Golf Emergency Relief Fund Edition

As your President and CEO, we continue to provide you comprehensive updates on what we are doing as an Association in our response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Our latest video answers your questions about the Golf Emergency Relief Fund, which launched on April 16. You can view this week’s video by clicking here.

Note, you will need to be logged into PGA.org to view.

These videos are meant to address the issues that matter most to you all out in the field and provide resources that are available to you during this time of crisis. If you have a specific question, submit it here.

Please continue to check our resources page on PGA.org for the latest updates and information and continue to be safe, be healthy, be patient, be kind and be smart.

All our best,

Suzy and Seth

(4/13/20) Golf Emergency Relief Fund

To apply for assistance from the Golf Emergency Relief Fund and to find further details, visit relief.golf. Applications will be live this Thursday, April 16, 2020 at 2 p.m. ET.        

Dear PGA Member,

During these incredibly challenging times, many people working in golf, who are normally there for others, are now in need of help themselves. Our friends, colleagues and their families need our support right away. We have to ensure that the heart and soul of our game—our people—are able to get back on their feet and continue to serve others down the road.

In response to the severe challenges impacting golf communities nationwide, we are announcing today that we have established a brand new Golf Emergency Relief Fund. 

The fund is designed to provide short-term financial assistance to certain individuals working in the golf industry, including PGA of America Professionals, who are facing significant financial hardship right now, including those suffering as a result of COVID-19.

For this relief effort, the PGA of America has made a lead pledge of $5 million, plus a matching fund for gifts from third parties of up to $2.5 million. The initial contribution includes every member of the PGA’s executive leadership team voluntarily reducing their compensation. Personal donations have also been made from our Board of Directors. With matching, we hope the fund grows to over $10 million.

The effort is also being supported in various ways by a number of industry organizations, including the GCSAA, PGA TOUR, LPGA, USGA, NGCOA and AGM.

The fund is managed by E4E Relief, an independent third-party public charity, which will provide grants to certain industry workers, including golf association members, employees of local/state golf associations, caddies and certain professionals playing on developmental tours to help offset COVID-19 related financial hardships, such as living and medical expenses.

For a complete list of individuals that may be eligible, click here.

• The first phase of the fund will distribute two tiers of funding with $500 grants for basic needs; and up to $1,500 grants for critical needs, with applications being reviewed, approved and grants disbursed by E4E on a rolling first-come, first-served basis.
• A second phase, currently scheduled to roll out after the completion of Phase 1, will have a longer application process, and distribute funds of up to $3,500, as reviewed and approved by E4E, on a rolling first-come, first-served basis. Individuals receiving grants through the first phase will be eligible to apply for grants in the second phase but the maximum amount an individual can receive in aggregate from the first and second phase is $3,500.

Further details around eligibility are forthcoming, with applications being accepted starting this Thursday, April 16 at 2 p.m. ET at relief.golf. 

To read the press release announcing the fund, please click here.

FAQs as they become available will also be posted on relief.golf.

We need to come to the aid of those who make this game we love so special, to help ensure their livelihood. We hope that you will help spread the word among your golf industry friends and colleagues about the availability of the new Golf Emergency Relief Fund.

We are here for you, and we are here to help, because the golf industry needs our compassionate support now more than ever.

Respectfully,

Suzy Whaley, PGA
President
PGA of America

Seth Waugh
CEO
PGA of America

(4/10/20) Golf Emergency Relief Fund & More from PGA Leadership

As your President and CEO, we continue to provide you with comprehensive updates on what we are doing as an Association in our response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Our latest video answers your questions about the Golf Emergency Relief Fund, PGA of America’s stance on golf being played and what the PGA of America has done to date to help our PGA Professionals and Sections since the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic. You can view this week’s video by clicking here.

Note, you will need to be logged into PGA.org to view.

These videos are meant to address the issues that matter most to you all out in the field and provide resources that are available to you during this time of crisis. If you have a specific question, submit it here.

Please continue to check our resources page on PGA.org for the latest updates and information and continue to be safe, be healthy, be patient, be kind and be smart.

All our best,
Suzy and Seth

(4/3/20) CARES Act Update

As your President and CEO, we continue to provide you with comprehensive updates on what we are doing as an Association in our response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Our latest video includes an interview with Tony Fratto, the founder of Hamilton Place Strategies, who worked in the White House and Treasury Department during the Bush Administration where he was deeply involved in all the policy actions during the last crisis and recession. In his current role, he has years of experience helping organizations understand legislation coming out of DC. Listen to him explain how the recently passed CARES Act can help PGA Professionals by clicking here.

Note, you will need to be logged into PGA.org to view.

These videos are meant to address the issues that matter most to you out in the field and provide resources that are available to you during this time of crisis. If you have a specific question, please submit it here.

We ask that if you have a specific question for Tony related to the CARES Act that you submit it by 9 a.m. on Monday so that it can be addressed during a future PGA of America CARES Act Town Hall.

Please continue to check our resources page on PGA.org for the latest updates and continue to be safe, be healthy, be patient, be kind and be smart.

All our best,

Suzy and Seth

(3/30/20) Clarification to Friday’s Dues Payment Announcement

We understand this is a very confusing, scary and painful time. We promise that we have been, and will continue to work diligently on your behalf to provide whatever relief, information and connection we possibly can. In accordance with tax rules applicable to 501(c) 6 not-for-profit organizations, the PGA of America must collect annual dues. Please note that we will do so under revamped procedures that take into account the significant challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic for our Members and Sections.

It appears that we may have caused confusion rather than clarity in Friday’s announcement which we will attempt to clear up here. While we wish it was possible to waive dues for all members during these difficult times, we are unfortunately unable to do so consistent with tax rules applicable to the PGA of America as a 501(c) 6 not-for-profit organization. However, understanding the challenges facing our members and in close cooperation with our sections, last Friday we announced revamped procedures that extend the National dues payment deadline until October 31, 2020.

While our intent was to be helpful, we certainly could have been more clear regarding the steps we are taking to help our members and sections during these trying times. We apologize for any confusion and misunderstanding that followed. Please click here for the specific information on PGA.org regarding 2020 dues payment timing. After reviewing this information, please call the PGA Membership Department directly at 1-800-474-2776 with any questions you may have.

This is by no means our last attempt to ease the fear and pain that so many of you are feeling. As mentioned, we have other ideas we are working on that we are hopeful can help to get all of us to the other side of this crisis. We look forward to announcing our further efforts to help as soon as we possibly can.

Thank you,

Suzy Whaley, PGA
President

(3/27/20) MESSAGE FROM PGA LEADERSHIP

As your President and CEO, we continue to provide you with comprehensive updates from us on what we are doing as an Association in our response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

To that end, we are providing weekly video updates. To watch our latest video, which includes updates on PGA dues and loans for PGA Professionals and more, click here.

Note, you will need to be logged into PGA.org to view.

These videos are meant to address the issues that matter most to you all out in the field. If you have a specific question, please submit it here.

These updates are also meant to give PGA Professionals increased transparency into our processes and a look at the resources that are available to you during this time of crisis.

Please continue to check our resources page on PGA.org for the latest updates and continue to be safe, be healthy, be patient, be kind and be smart.

All our best,
Suzy and Seth

(3/20/20) MESSAGE FROM PGA LEADERSHIP

As your President and CEO, we want to continue to provide you with comprehensive updates from us on what we are doing as an Association in our response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

To that end, we will be providing weekly video updates that will begin with this one. To watch the video, you will need to be logged into PGA.org. Click here to watch video.

These updates are meant to give PGA Professionals increased transparency into our processes and a look at the resources that are available to you during this time of crisis.

Following today’s debut video, we will also be opening it up to questions from you to help us address the issues that matter most to you all out in the field. If you have a specific question, please submit it here. We may not get to all of your questions on next week’s update, but will try to answer as many as possible.

In the meantime, continue to check our resources page on PGA.org for the latest updates and continue to be safe, be healthy, be patient, be kind and be smart.

All our best,

Suzy and Seth

(3/16/20) MESSAGE FROM PGA LEADERSHIP

As the information surrounding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve, we wanted to provide a central location that you and your facilities can use to find the latest and most up-to-date information from the PGA of America and our golf industry partners.

Coronavirus Resources for PGA Members

While we know that things vary across the 41 Sections and from facility to facility, we believe the resources page provides useful information and tools for any PGA Member, regardless of their role or location.

As this is a fluid situation, continue to check PGA.org for the latest information.

In the meantime, please be safe, be healthy, be patient, be kind and be smart.

Suzy, Jim, and John

(3/16/20) NOTICE FROM THE PGA OF AMERICA

PGA PROFESSIONALS, THEIR FACILITIES AND THE GOLF INDUSTRY
PGA HQ staff will be operating remotely effective Monday; while Valhalla and PGA Golf Club remain open to the public.  We also provided a set of common-sense recommendations for consideration by operators.  We have committed to keeping PGA Professionals up-to-date through “Five Things to Know” and PGA.org on a regular basis. From an MSR and education perspective, please note the following:

• MSR Cycle – Extend the MSR cycle deadline from June 15, 2021 to June 15, 2022, for all Members.  This is due to a number of MSR activity opportunities – meetings, education, tournaments, player development – that could be postponed or canceled. Additionally, this relieves pressure on Sections and Members to conduct or take part in these activities during this unprecedented time of uncertainty.
• Acceptable Progress – Extend the Acceptable Progress deadlines of all PGA Associates by one year.  As travel to the PGA Education Center is currently curtailed, PGA Education staff is exploring online opportunities.  With uncertainty of testing sites remaining open, this provides flexibility with regard to Associates meeting their deadlines.
• PGA Golf Management University Students – 14 of our 18 GMU’s have currently cancelled classes and have moved to online delivery.  PGA Education Staff will work with the universities directly in regard to needed accommodations within the Criteria and Standards.
• PGA Associates – We have cancelled pending seminars at Port St. Lucie through April.  81 individuals were impacted and we are refunding everyone’s registration fee and charging them back at a discounted rate.  The team is looking into online options that could be adopted in the future. Teaching & coaching and Executive Management is offered on a quarterly basis and therefore have not been impacted.

Carolinas PGA Back2Golf Update – Cart Operations – 09/3/20

(For full message, CLICK HERE)

B2G Phase Update:

With NC Governor Cooper moving to Phase 2.5 this Friday, September 4th, the Carolinas PGA has updated the current Back2Golf Playbook Version 4.0 as it relates to both states.

CLICK HERE for the updated Carolinas PGA Back2Golf Playbook.

The primary updates for the golfing community are for North Carolina only as follows:  (1) mass gathering limits will increase to 25 people indoors and 50 people outdoors and (2) gyms may open at 30% capacity.  The NC order requiring facial coverings remains unchanged.

Please note that “Cart Operations” remain unchanged for both states as follows below, however, in both NC and SC if a plastic divider shield is installed in the cart, neither the driver or passenger is required to wear a facial cloth covering:

North Carolina:

Two people are permitted to ride together in a cart if they live in the same household without a facial cloth covering. If two people who do NOT live in the same household are sharing a cart, a facial cloth covering is required. 

South Carolina:

Two people are permitted to ride together in a cart if they live in the same household without a facial cloth covering. If two people who do NOT live in the same household are sharing a cart, a facial cloth covering is strongly recommended.

Note:  For both SC and NC any stricter local city or county mandates continue to supersede the B2G guidance and should be strictly followed. 

Please continue to safely and responsibly operate your facility using the most current state orders listed below:

South Carolina Executive Orders

North Carolina Executive Orders

The B2G guidance is to be utilized as strongly recommended guidelines that were determined by our allied golf associations and the CDC, and not as a mandate.  It is up to each individual CPGA facility to determine the best practices to ensure safety and compliance at your respective golf facility.

Carolinas PGA Back2Golf Update – Cart Operations – (06/25/20)

Carolinas PGA Professionals & Associates:

Good afternoon!  I hope you and your families are doing well during this challenging time.  With yesterday’s announcement from NC Governor Cooper with more stringent requirements for wearing face masks while in public, the Carolinas PGA has updated the current Back2Golf Playbook Version 4.0 as it relates to both states.

The update relates to North Carolina “Cart Operations” as follows:

North Carolina:

Two people are permitted to ride together in a cart if they live in the same household without a facial cloth covering. If two people who do NOT live in the same household are sharing a cart, a facial cloth covering is required.

NC Executive Order 147

South Carolina remains the same, as follows:

South Carolina:

Two people are permitted to ride together in a cart if they live in the same household without a facial cloth covering. If two people who do NOT live in the same household are sharing a cart, a facial cloth covering is strongly recommended.

The Carolinas PGA has updated this document as it relates to NC and SC orders issued by each state’s respective governor.  Please CLICK HERE to review this updated document.  It is also available on our COVID-19 webpage.

Note:  For both SC and NC any stricter local city or county mandates continue to supersede the B2G guidance and should be strictly followed. 

Please continue to safely and responsibly operate your facility using the most current state orders listed below:

South Carolina Executive Orders

North Carolina Executive Orders

The B2G guidance is to be utilized as strongly recommended guidelines that were determined by our allied golf associations and the CDC, and not as a mandate.  It is up to each individual CPGA facility to determine the best practices to ensure safety and compliance at your respective golf facility.

We will continue to update the membership with new developments as it relates to our staff and B2G phases for each state.  Please do not hesitate to contact an officer, board member or Executive Director Jeff Abbot with any questions.

Sincerely,

Bob Byrnes, PGA
Carolinas PGA, President
Hope Valley CC, Head Professional
bbyrnes@hvcc.org
919-943-3667 (cell)

CPGA Back2Golf SC & NC Phase Updates & Golf Cart Guidance

CPGA Back2Golf SC & NC Phase Updates & Golf Cart Guidance – 05/10/20

IMPORTANT UPDATE from your Officers, Board, and CPGA Staff – 05/05/2020

Good afternoon Carolinas PGA Professionals & Associates:

I hope this message finds everyone doing well as we progress through these unprecedented times. The Officers, Board, and Section Staff come to you today with some important updates.

The Carolinas PGA has extended the postponement of all events and activities through Wednesday, May 27. This includes all section-run tournaments, chapter events, PATs, and sanctioned pro-ams.

As you are hopefully aware, Back2Golf was released last week by the PGA of America and Allied Golf Organizations to guide golf facilities in staying compliant as America begins to re-open golf.  Our Board of Directors is using this resource with applicable state ordinances to guide our re-opening decisions in the Carolinas.

We encourage you to review the Back2Golf Guidelines and the Back2Golf Playbook to prepare your facilities for the upcoming transitions. Both NC and SC are currently in Phase One of the Back2Golf guidelines, and we will offer additional guidance with new state developments.  The document is “live” and will be updated on PGA.org.

The Section is working closely with the allied golf associations to determine additional guidance as it relates to single rider golf carts. We hope to offer new guidance as certain applicable business restrictions are lifted in each state.

Please note that more restrictive county or city guidelines will supersede any section guidance. We appreciate all of our PGA members’ hard work to keep your facilities safely open. Please continue to let golfer and staff safety serve as your guide.

Our Officers are in conversations daily and the Board is conducting a conference call every two weeks, so please be assured that we have you, our PGA Member, as our top priority. We are here to support you in any way possible so please do not hesitate to reach out if we can be of assistance.

Sincerely,

Bob Byrnes, PGA
Carolinas PGA, President
Hope Valley CC, Head Professional
bbyrnes@hvcc.org
919-943-3667 (cell)

ATTENTION CAROLINAS PGA MEMBERS & ASSOCIATES:

We hope this message continues to find everyone healthy and safe. We are coming to you this afternoon with some very important and crucial information that has been passed along from key contacts from state and county officials that we need social distancing compliance from our players now more than ever in order for golf to continue during this time.

Under both NC and SC ordinances, we are fortunate that golf courses are allowed to operate, but they need to follow specific guidelines in order to remain compliant. FAILURE BY A SINGLE COURSE TO FOLLOW THESE RULES MAY RESULT IN THE LOSS OF OUR ABILITY TO MAINTAIN EVEN LIMITED GOLF OPERATIONS IN THE CAROLINAS.

Unfortunately, it has been brought to our attention that many courses around the Carolinas Section are not adhering to local & state guidelines.   Please follow this URGENT request and do everything you can to police this through peer review. Please reach out to other facilities in your area to encourage them to comply!

To recap the guidelines:

• Golfers must obey the social distance rule of maintaining a minimum of six feet (6’ separation) AT ALL TIMES while on the golf course.  The allowed exception to this is only in North Carolina where members of the same household are not required to maintain social distancing measures.

• Gatherings of more than 10 people in the same place at the same time – including outdoor spaces – is prohibited, and all individuals must observe the social distance rule of minimum 6 feet of separation.

• Players that use carts must adhere to a single-rider per cart in order to maintain social distance standards unless in NC the individuals are from the same household. Please refer to this Single Rider Cart Use Information for more information.

Some best practices to pass along to your players to help everyone adhere to these guidelines:

• Please have players arrive at the course only 15 minutes prior to their tee time and leave the course once their round is complete to help us comply with the rule of keeping gatherings to 10 or less.

• When standing, if you were to extend your golf club in different directions and have that club come in contact with another player you are probably not 6 feet away from that individual.

• Utilize continuous putting once all of the players in the group have reached the green. This will allow others to stand off to the side of the green in order to maintain 6 feet of separation.

This is a true global health emergency, and we are asking each of you to help be part of the solution.  Please model the behaviors outlined for safe golf.  Be mindful that we are under persistent surveillance for compliance, and we SHOULD NOT put our golf facilities and personnel at risk because of non-compliance on the part of even one golfer.

Thank you for your understanding and for being part of the solution.

Sincerely,

Bob Byrnes, PGA
CPGA President

Jeff Abbot
Executive Director

(4/1/20) MESSAGE FROM CPGA – Jeff Abbot, Executive Director

Good afternoon!  I hope you and your families are safe during this challenging time.  Please know that your safety is our utmost concern.  We are continually updating our COVID-19 webpage and our awaiting some important updates from the PGA of America as it relates to the CARES and Families First Coronavirus Response Act.  We will add these resources to our website as soon as they are received.

There have been numerous questions as it relates to interpretations of state and local ordinances, the most challenging has centered on single rider cart use.  The Carolinas PGA Officers, with feedback from allied golf organizations’ leadership, have developed the following Single Rider Cart Use Recommendations.

Please read and implement these strongly recommended guidelines.  It is critical that all golf courses that choose to remain open adhere to these guidelines to protect their guests and staff.  Failure by a single course to follow these rules may result in the loss of our ability as an industry to provide a vital, essential activity to the public when it needs it most.  

Please continue to reach out to me, and our staff, if there is anything we can do to serve you during this challenging time.  Stay positive as a brighter future is on the horizon!

Sincerely,

Jeff Abbot
Executive Director

(3/24/20) MESSAGE FROM CPGA – BOB BYRNES, CPGA PRESIDENT

Good afternoon! I hope you and your families are safe during this unprecedented time. I have been working closely with our officers, board, and staff as we navigate these unchartered waters. The section and our allied associations have contacted state officials to keep golf facilities open as an activity for the public to enjoy, so long as they maintain a safe environment. We will continue to stay in contact with state officials to make recommendations as this fluid situation evolves.

With so much uncertainty on the horizon, I wanted to reach out to our members and share some things we can all do to keep us engaged in our business until we can return to our normal lives. We have compiled a list of online activities through the PGA of America (on the last tab). We hope that you will use these not just to pass the time, but as an opportunity to draw on these tools to better prepare you for this season and beyond. Please click HERE to visit our dedicated COVID-19 website page for continuous updates, best practices, and important information on the ever-changing situation.

Given the continually evolving nature of the current COVID-19 crisis, the Carolinas Section will extend the postponement of all Section activities/events through Sunday, May 17.

(3/13/20) MESSAGE FROM CAROLINAS PGA

Carolinas PGA Professionals, Associates, and Community:

Given the escalating concerns regarding the rapid spread and still unknown threat of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), and following the guidance of the PGA of America, the Carolinas Section will postpone all Section activities/events effective immediately through Sunday, April 5.

This includes the CPGA Players Championship, upcoming Chapter Meetings (Lowcountry, Palmetto, Cape Fear, Grand Strand, & Sandhills), PAT’s, and PGA HOPE Programs. As for PGA Jr. League programs, we strongly recommend suspending any practice, try-outs, meetings, etc. that you plan on hosting within this time frame.

Section Headquarters Staff will begin working remotely on Monday, March 16th for the foreseeable future. All operations and services will continue as normal, and we will maintain consistent levels of service. If you should need to get into contact, please click HERE to find each Staff Member’s direct line and email address.

Our top priorities during this time are caring for the health of our PGA professionals, their staff and members; preventing the virus from infiltrating our facilities and gatherings; and contributing to public health efforts to stem the spread of this virus throughout our golf and civic communities.

Please continue to follow local and regional guidance on the outbreak, and let us know if we can do anything for you during this challenging time.

The CPGA Team

(05/22/2020) Golf Emergency Relief Fund Updates

Dear Member,

As you are aware, in response to the severe challenges impacting golf communities nationwide, the Golf Emergency Relief Fund was established to provide short-term financial assistance to certain individuals facing significant financial hardship, with an initial focus on those impacted by COVID-19.

As we have seen over the last few weeks – as our communities respond to COVID-19 – the more we are forced to stay apart, the more we are reminded of how connected we all truly are. We are pleased to announce that E4E Relief awarded in excess of $4 million to over 3,300 individuals during Phase 1 of the Golf Emergency Relief Fund.

Initiated through a lead pledge by the PGA of America, the fund will continue to provide grants to industry professionals, including golf association members, employees of local/state golf associations, caddies and certain professionals playing on developmental tours to help offset financial hardships, such as basic needs, living and medical expenses.

Applications for Phase 2 grants begin on Wednesday, May 27. Phase 2 is another opportunity to assist those economically impacted by the pandemic. Eligible workers will have the opportunity to apply for Phase 2 grants of up to $3,500. Individuals receiving grants through the first phase will be eligible to apply for grants in the second phase but the maximum amount an individual can receive in aggregate from the first and second phase is $3,500. Individuals who did not apply for Phase 1, and those who were denied during Phase 1, are still eligible to apply for Phase 2.

The second phase will have a longer application process and distribute grants as reviewed and approved by E4E Relief on a rolling basis. Documentation needed will vary based on the type of expenses requested. Although Phase 2 is a needs-based analysis and not the same process as Phase I, grants will be approved on a rolling basis. Accordingly, applicants are encouraged to submit early in the process, and make all requested expense-related documentation available to E4E Relief as soon as possible.

The PGA’s contribution to the Golf Emergency Relief Fund included every member of the executive leadership team voluntarily reducing their compensation, and additionally, personal donations from members of the PGA Board of Directors have been pledged.

Please continue to refer to the application page on golf.e4erelief.org for additional information, questions and supplemental documentation required for Phase 2.

Please note that the distribution of funds for grants reviewed and approved by E4E Relief in Phase 1 of the Golf Emergency Relief Fund concluded on May 21, 2020.

It has been through the contributions and support of many throughout the golf industry, including Allied Associations, that the Golf Emergency Relief Fund has been such an important source of help for many in need.

Respectfully,

Suzy Whaley, PGA
President
PGA of America

Seth Waugh
CEO
PGA of America

(04/22/2020) Phase 1 Golf Emergency Relief Fund Applications

Anyone who registered by Friday, April 17, 2020 at 2 p.m. but was unable to complete the application process will have until TODAY, Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at 4 pm ET to complete. The time of registration (not the time of application submission) is the moment in time deemed effective. Apply here.

(04/17/2020) Phase 1 of Golf Emergency Relief Fund Closing at 2 PM ET

Due to overwhelming response, E4E Relief will be closing registrations for Phase 1 of the Golf Emergency Relief Fund at 2 pm ET today (April 17, 2020).

As a reminder, applications are received on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that as it relates to the first-come, first-serve nature of the grant approvals, the time of registration (not the time of application submission) is the moment in time deemed effective. Anyone who registered but was unable to complete the application process will have until Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at 4 pm ET to complete the application process.

On Thursday, April 16, as a result of the high volume of people seeking to apply for a grant in a very concentrated window of time, E4E Relief experienced loading issues causing difficulty for applicants to complete their application, after registering on the site. Those who were deemed ineligible during the initial pre-screening questions will have another opportunity to review the information they provided to ensure the accuracy of information and re-submit their application.

Thank you for your understanding and patience. We will communicate further details on Phase 2 of the Golf Emergency Relief Fund as they become available from E4E.

For questions or assistance, please call 833-386-0338 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. ET or contact golf@e4erelief.org. You can also visit the Golf Emergency Relief Fund FAQs here. E4E will be the sole group reviewing and approving or disapproving all applications.

(04/16/2020) Golf Emergency Relief Fund Technical Issue Update

https://news.pga.org/members/golf-emergency-relief-fund-technical-issue-update

To apply for assistance from the Golf Emergency Relief Fund and to find further details, visit relief.golf. Applications will be live this Thursday, April 16, 2020 at 2 p.m. ET.        

Dear PGA Member,

During these incredibly challenging times, many people working in golf, who are normally there for others, are now in need of help themselves. Our friends, colleagues and their families need our support right away. We have to ensure that the heart and soul of our game—our people—are able to get back on their feet and continue to serve others down the road.

In response to the severe challenges impacting golf communities nationwide, we are announcing today that we have established a brand new Golf Emergency Relief Fund. 

The fund is designed to provide short-term financial assistance to certain individuals working in the golf industry, including PGA of America Professionals, who are facing significant financial hardship right now, including those suffering as a result of COVID-19.

For this relief effort, the PGA of America has made a lead pledge of $5 million, plus a matching fund for gifts from third parties of up to $2.5 million. The initial contribution includes every member of the PGA’s executive leadership team voluntarily reducing their compensation. Personal donations have also been made from our Board of Directors. With matching, we hope the fund grows to over $10 million.

The effort is also being supported in various ways by a number of industry organizations, including the GCSAA, PGA TOUR, LPGA, USGA, NGCOA and AGM.

The fund is managed by E4E Relief, an independent third-party public charity, which will provide grants to certain industry workers, including golf association members, employees of local/state golf associations, caddies and certain professionals playing on developmental tours to help offset COVID-19 related financial hardships, such as living and medical expenses.

For a complete list of individuals that may be eligible, click here.

• The first phase of the fund will distribute two tiers of funding with $500 grants for basic needs; and up to $1,500 grants for critical needs, with applications being reviewed, approved and grants disbursed by E4E on a rolling first-come, first-served basis.
• A second phase, currently scheduled to roll out after the completion of Phase 1, will have a longer application process, and distribute funds of up to $3,500, as reviewed and approved by E4E, on a rolling first-come, first-served basis. Individuals receiving grants through the first phase will be eligible to apply for grants in the second phase but the maximum amount an individual can receive in aggregate from the first and second phase is $3,500.

Further details around eligibility are forthcoming, with applications being accepted starting this Thursday, April 16 at 2 p.m. ET at relief.golf. 

To read the press release announcing the fund, please click here.

FAQs as they become available will also be posted on relief.golf.

We need to come to the aid of those who make this game we love so special, to help ensure their livelihood. We hope that you will help spread the word among your golf industry friends and colleagues about the availability of the new Golf Emergency Relief Fund.

We are here for you, and we are here to help, because the golf industry needs our compassionate support now more than ever.

Respectfully,

Suzy Whaley, PGA
President
PGA of America

Seth Waugh
CEO
PGA of America

Singler Rider Cart Use Information

There have been numerous questions as it relates to interpretations of state and local ordinances, the most challenging has centered on single rider cart use.  The Carolinas PGA Officers, with feedback from allied golf organizations’ leadership, have developed the following Single Rider Cart Use Information. Click HERE to access the information.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources

The U.S. Senate passed the $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide relief to Americans and businesses during the COVID-19 crisis.  Health and government officials are working together to maintain the safety, security, and health of the American people.  Small businesses are encouraged to do their part to keep their employees, customers, and themselves healthy.

Please see this file with information compiled by our partner GolfProPayments on the CARES Act and loans to keep your facility or business open and your employees working.

Legislative Relief, Golf Maintenance and Leadership Town Halls

NCA is providing critical Coronavirus Town Halls to ensure you have the tools to make informed decisions at your club during this unprecedented crisis. These webinars are FREE for the entire club community.

Friday: Getting Members on Board with the New Rules

June 5 at 11 ET

The rules have changed as clubs are slowly getting to the new normal. The team from DENEHY Club Thinking Partners, a leading executive search and consulting firm serving the private club industry, will discuss how clubs are adapting and communicating these changes to get buy in from their members.

Experts: Matthew Allnatt, General Manager, Chief Operations Officer, Jonathan Club
Daniel M. Denehy, CCM CHA – President, DENEHY Club Thinking Partners
Bob James, CCM, CCE, CHE – Executive Vice President, DENEHY Club Thinking Partners
Nick Sidorakis, General Manager, Chief Operations Officer, Southern Hills Country Club

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Tuesday: Getting Back to Business – Supply Chain Commodity Updates & Reopening and Ramp-Up Considerations for Private Clubs

June 9 at 11 ET

Join NCA and Avendra’s procurement experts as they provide their latest commodity outlook, including pricing fluctuations to consider and availability of relevant products and services, during COVID-19. They will also offer new reopening and ramp-up guidance for Private Clubs with a focus on enhancing member reassurance and profitability optimization ideas to help you get back to business safely and effectively.

Experts: Cory Dellinger, Senior Director of Operational Consulting, Avendra Consulting Services
Chip McIntyre, Senior Vice President, Strategic Sourcing, Avendra

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Missed a Town Hall?

You can listen to previous Coronavirus Town Halls AT THIS LINK. They have hosted many so this is a great resource!

New Financial & Economic Club Resources

NCA has updated our Coronavirus Resource Center with new financial and economic information to help your club better respond to the issue and plan ahead. Resources include FAQs, club financial data, a financial impact overview and much more. Visit the new web page here.

The National Club Association is continuing to closely monitor the COVID-19 crisis and will provide you with the best information available to help your club during this difficult time. Please visit NCA’s revamped Coronavirus Resource Center or reach out to Cindy Vizza at 202-822-9822 or vizza@nationalclub.org for more information.

Personal Finance Outlook: New research conducted by the National Golf Foundation with core golfers analyzes their spending, personal finance and ‘exposure avoidance’ during April and their outlook once things return to normal. See the full article here.

Critical Updates for Clubs – May 12

Paycheck Protection Program Breakthrough

As mentioned earlier in today’s industry alert, the latest relief package released by the House has opened up the Paycheck Protection Program to all 501(c) nonprofits, included 501(c)(7) clubs.

This is just the first step in what is sure to be a long process, NCA will continue to work toward a successful conclusion. The legislation is H.R. 6800, the HEROES Act and the language can be found on page 821 and 822.

NCA extends our thanks to all of you who weighed in with your members of Congress to make this happen. By speaking with one voice, we got our message through. While we have a long way to go, please be sure to reach out to your Representatives and thank them for including all 501(c) organizations in the Paycheck Protection Program.

COVID Stat: Safety Sentiments

A recent poll by SSRS and Lot Sports reveals that one in four Americans don’t feel safe at all (light blue) in a group of a few people compared to 21% who feel totally safe (purple).

See the full results and additional surveys here.

Critical Updates for Clubs – May 6

As part of our effort to educate clubs on how to safely and effectively navigate this unprecedented crisis, NCA is pleased to share the COVID-19 Club Update. This regular newsletter updates clubs about new resources and guidance from NCA and trusted sources.

NCA General Counsel and Managing Partner, Tenenbaum Law Group PLLC Jeffrey S. Tenenbaum, Esq., walks clubs through the Payroll Retention Tax Credit and how clubs can access and take advantage of it. Listen here.

COVID-19 Stat: Consumer Spending

A recent Gallup poll showed that consumer spending across all major income groups is down in recent months. Overall, 51% of Americans are spending less, the highest rate since 2010. Forty-seven percent of those who say they are spending less expect it to be temporary compared with 33% who said the same in 2010.

Read the article here.

COVID-19 Updates for Clubs – April 30

Legislative Resource

• Updated: Paycheck Protection FAQs (Treasury)

Operations Resources

• A Guide to State Coronavirus Reopenings and Lockdowns (The Wall Street Journal)
• What’s Happening in Golf (Golf News Hub)
• QR Codes: One Solution to the Post-COVID-19 Dine-In Problem (Hospitality Technology)
• 4 Detailed Steps Hotels Can Take Now to Regain Guest Trust (Hospitality Technology)
• Some State Reopenings Include Health Clubs (Club Industry)
• ICYMI: Can members play cards once you reopen? Q&A with Club Safety Expert and Former Club Manager Alan Achatz

As a follow-up to Tuesday’s webinar, Achatz is offering a 20% discount to NCA members on his Emergency Action Plan, Hazard Communication Plan and Bloodborne Pathogen Plan in April. Learn more here.

Leadership Resource

• The New Normal? (GGA Partners)

Workforce Resource

• U.S. Department of Labor Issues COVID-19 Relief and Guidance for Employee Benefit Plans (DOL)
• Unemployment Insurance Guidance and FAQs (DOL)

COVID-19 Stat: Metropolitan Cases Revisited

Last month, NCA shared an interactive chart from The New York Times detailing the rise of COVID-19 cases per metropolitan area. Here is the updated chart revealing a clear flattening trend across metropolitan regions across the country.

Use the resource to see where your region is along the curve and how it compares with others in the United States

Access the charts here.

COVID-19 Updates for Clubs – April 28

NCA VP of Government Relations Joe Trauger breaks down the funding that went into the recent CARES Act supplemental bill, including the EIDL program. He also shares who we’ve been talking to in order to get the latest on future legislation and how the next CARES Act could play out.

Listen here.

• Social Clubs: Qualified Disaster Payments Under IRC Section 139 (COMD)

Legal Resource

• Legal Issues to Consider when Reopening Your Business (National Law Review)

Governance Resource

• Financial Stewardship (GGA Partners)

Operations Resources

• IHRSA Urges a Four-Pronged Approach to Reopening, Urges Governors to Open Health Clubs When Safe (Club Industry)
• The Three Stages Of COVID-19 for Health Clubs (Club Industry)
• 18 Safety Considerations for Your Health Club Reopening Plan (IHRSA)
• Guidelines: Opening Up America Again (The White House)
• Q&A with Club Safety Expert and Former Club Manager Alan Achatz (NCA Town Halls)

As a follow-up to today’s webinar, Achatz is offering a 20% discount to NCA members on his Emergency Action Plan, Hazard Communication Plan and Bloodborne Pathogen Plan this month. Learn more here.

Workforce Resource

• EEOC Adds COVID-19 Testing Guidance to its Technical Assistance on COVID-19 and Anti-Discrimination Laws (National Law Review)

Member and Staff Safety Communications

Bishops Bay Country Club in Middleton, Wis., recently published a video showcasing the measures the club is taking to ensure that members and staff remain safe.

Watch the video here.

COVID-19 Updates for Clubs – April 16

NCA VP of Government Relations Joe Trauger explains where COVID-19 relief legislation stands and when we may expect a new bill to be released.Trauger also walks you through NCA’s advocacy efforts to include 501(c)(7) organizations in relief funding. Listen here.

NCA VP of Government Relations Joe Trauger explains new funding efforts for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), who he has been in contact with to get 501(c)(7)s included in the PPP, and how he is personally getting members from his club to contact members of Congress. Listen here.

The National Golf Foundation has conducted ongoing surveys of more than 6,000 golf facilities nationwide to determine how courses are dealing with COVID-19. The survey shows that private facilities, compared to daily fee courses and municipal courses, have the highest percentage of open courses with 52%. This number represents a 5% increase from April 5.

Overall, 49% of U.S. golf courses are currently operating.

To learn more, access NGF’s COVID-19 Update website by clicking here.

COVID-19 Updates for Clubs – April 8

As part of our effort to educate clubs on how to safely and effectively navigate the unprecedented coronavirus crisis, NCA is pleased to share the COVID-19 Club Update. This regular newsletter will feature updates about new COVID-19 resources and guidance from NCA and trusted sources.

NCA Explains EIDL vs PPP Loans

501(c)7 organizations are eligible to receive Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the SBA. These loans are not forgivable and offer up to $2 million in assistance. EIDLs may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact. The interest rate is 2.75% for nonprofits. The EIDL also has a $10,000 grant that is paid out within 3 days of the application regardless of whether the loan is offered.

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans are forgivable if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. Currently, 501(c)7 organizations are not eligible for PPP loans.

NCA is working diligently to have clubs included in this program. If clubs are included in the Paycheck Protection Program, clubs can convert their EIDLs into PPP loans.

Contact NCA VP of Government Relations Joe Trauger at trauger@nationalclub.org for more information.

NEW RESOURCES

Coronavirus Resource Center

NCA is continuously updating our Coronavirus Resource Center, which provides guidance from trusted resources in critical club areas. Here are the latest updates to the website.

Legislative Resources

NCA has laid out the benefits clubs received in the recently passed $2.2 trillion CARES Act, package into a simple, easy-to-understand and share document.

Access the document here.

Visit our Legislative page for more resources, FAQs and guidance here.

Today’s NCA COVID-19 Legislative Podcast: What relief can clubs get with EIDLs and what is happening with the Paycheck Projection Program and 501c7s?

Workforce Resource

• Updated H-2B FAQs: H-2B Coronavirus Impacts FAQ (Pabian Law)

Membership Resources

• Member Engagement Forum Handouts (Club Catering & Event Professionals and Private Clubs Online) April 3
• Complimentary Webinar: Member Engagement Forum: Best Practices During a Global Health Crisis (Club Catering and Private Clubs Online)
• Virtual Club Experience: Baltimore Country Club Lifestyle Special Edition

Operations Resource

• COVID 19 Resources for Hospitality (Cornell Center for Innovative Hospitality Labor and Employment Relations)

Emergency Legislation Resources

The Department of Labor (DOL) is hosting a national online dialogue to provide employers and employees a chance to offer their perspective as the DOL develops compliance materials and outreach strategies regarding the implementation of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Clubs can participate online here from March 23 through March 29.

• Free Resources to Help Navigate States’ Responses to the CoronaVirus (GovPredict)
• COVID-19 and the Workplace (DOL)
• DOL Publishes Guidance on Paid Sick Leave Under Families First Coronavirus Response Act

Tax Resources

• Social Clubs and the Coronavirus Pandemic (Condon O’Meara McGinty & Donnelly)
• COVID-19 RELIEF: Employment Tax Credit is Now Available for Businesses Subject to Mandated Paid Leave Under the Family First CoronaVirus Response Act (AALRR)

Fitness Professionals Resource

• Club Industry’s Coronavirus Resource Page for Fitness Industry Professionals

Restaurant Resource

• Datassential Resource Library for Restaurants

Golf Resource

• COVID-19 Rules & Handicapping FAQs (USGA)

Live Track the Spread of COVID-19
Track the spread of the coronavirus on national, statewide and local levels in real-time by using the Johns Hopkins interactive live map.

COVID-19 Club Stat
NCA asked March 20 attendees of our Coronavirus Town Hall, “Your Club is Closing, Now What?” how far in advance have their clubs cancelled events. We received 124 responses. Here are the results.

COVID-19 Club Stat
NCA asked March 16 attendees of our Coronavirus Town Hall for Clubs what modifcations they are making at their own clubs to mitigate risk of COVID-19. We received 1,063 responses. Here are the results.

COVID-19 News Updates

• Golf courses, superintendents grapple with coronavirus
• Firsthand reports: Superintendents adjust operations for coronavirus
• 2020 National Golf Day postponed

Temporary Restrictions on Bars & Restaurants

• List of Cities and States that Have Shut Down Bars and Restaurants
• Coronavirus and the States: Unemployment Sites Jam, Evictions Pause and More

Q&A: My club is closed, what kinds of offsite programming can I offer members to keep them engaged?

Clubs can utilize numerous communications platforms to send information, share instructional videos, organize live meetings and social events, offer tips and best practices, and deliver other important information to keep members updated and engaged. Here are several ideas we have seen from clubs across the country:

• New newsletters that offer fitness tips, recipes, kids’ activities, calming exercises, and that encourage members to share photos with each other
• Online social events like happy hours, bingo and book clubs
• Virtual meetings and entertainment like magic shows, cooking demos, tech assistance and business roundtables
• Instructional videos of dance lessons, golf tips, yoga classes and etiquette basics
• Content creation platforms that allow members to share photos, videos and experiences with each other

COVID-19 News Updates

• Coronavirus Club Update (Club + Resort Business)
• How Companies Treat Employees During Coronavirus Will Determine Their Fate After (Unity Marketing)
• Press Release: Hotels Sign Up to Support First Responders; Provide Housing (AHLA)
• State-by-state Social Distancing Scorecard (unacast.)
• Country Club Members, Managers Step Up with Good Deeds During Crisis (Golf Digest)

Coronavirus – Carolinas Update 5/2

I.  Gov. McMaster of South Carolina has just announced that he is lifting the state’s “Work or Home” order as of Monday, May 4; and, at the same time, restaurants in SC may begin to service outdoor dining areas.   Be aware, however, that the same spacing requirements are in place.  CLICK HERE for a summary of the order and the outdoor dining requirements.

II.   Your fellow Carolinas managers are currently looking for the following resources.  I am also searching, but if you have anything that you have found OR put together yourself and will share, please let me know asap.  patricia@carolinascmaa.org

a.  Employee Training Videos on the COVID-19 issues (sanitation, spacing, etc.) that your staff will be dealing with upon reopening.
b.  Fitness Center (all aspects) reopening checklists.

III.  I have been searching for health wellness product sources and have come across a couple for you:  DiscountMugs has a lot of products – masks, sanitizer, thermometers, and so on IN STOCK – CLICK HERE;  Stanley Steemer has sanitizing equipment and products for facilities – CLICK HERE.

IV. CLICK HERE for an article from Golf Inc.:  “5 Ways to Rebuild Customer Confidence Post COVID-19”

V.   CLICK HERE for CMAA’s excellent summary of “Considerations for Re-opening a Club Post COVID-19.”

Coronavirus – Carolinas Update 4/23

I.   CLICK HERE for a listing of all North Carolina county government websites, which may help you keep up with what’s happening locally for your club!  Thank you Tonya Herrick (Charlotte City Club) for compiling this list!
And here again is the listing for all South Carolina county government websites (and some state and federal).  (Thank you again, Kristi Suddeth/Fripp Island Resort Club).  CLICK HERE

II.  Upcoming Webinars:

Friday, April 24

NCA     11:30     Status Check: What Is Available for Clubs and What Are We Asking for from Congress?
REGISTER

CMAA     2:00 pm     Employee Assistance Funds
REGISTER 

Tuesday, April 28

NCA     11:30 am     Coronavirus: Safety Concerns and Procedures – Alan Achatz, CCM, CHE, President, Club Safety Solutions
REGISTER

Thursday, April 30

CMAA     2:00 pm    Club Fitness, Sport and Recreation Operations During the COVID-19 Crisis
REGISTER

Friday, May 1

CMAA     2:00 pm     Are You Ready to Reopen Your Food & Beverage Operations During the COVID-19 Crisis?
REGISTER

III. CLICK HERE for article from GGA Partners:  “Guiding Principles for Financial Stewardship: Part I”   This article continues a series of communications from GGA Partners to help private club leaders address challenges confronting their businesses and their employees as a result of the global health crisis. 

IV.  CLICK HERE for NCA’s “Coronavirus: What Clubs Need to Know” website page – lots of great resources!

V.   CLICK HERE for CMAA’s “Coronavirus:  Be Prepared” website page with more great resources!

VI.  CLICK HERE for article from Rick Coyne / ClubInsights:  “Leadership – There’s No Time Like the Present…..”

Coronavirus – Carolinas Update 4/19

I.   CLICK HERE for a list of this week’s webinars.

II.  If you need sanitizing towels, Rick Sederholt shared this brand:  CLICK HERE

III. Don’t forget that if you have missed any of the CMAA or NCA webinars, you can go online to both sites to see all of the past webinars.
CMAA: CLICK HERE
NCA: CLICK HERE

IV. The Carolinas Chapter has wonderful sponsors who support us in numerous ways, but primarily their donations pay for almost all of our Chapter education! Please contact some of them that you work with and THANK THEM for their support, and ask them what WE CAN DO FOR THEM during this difficult time. If you receive input on something that the Chapter can do to help them right now, please let me know!
CLICK HERE for a current list of the Carolinas Chapter Sponsors.

Coronavirus – Carolinas Update 4/14

1.  Swimming Pools:  Information from Alan Achatz and Brian Sheehan

Alan Achatz / Club Safety Solutions:

I spoke with Brian Sheehan of Swim Club Management Group regarding reopening pools.
Attached are two items from Brian – one is from NC Dept of Health, other is CDC.
It appears a properly chemically balanced pool will kill the COVID-19 virus.
Please advise others they still have to sanitize the ingress/egress hand and ladder rails.

Brian Sheehan / Swim Club Management & Club Camps:

As discussed, North Carolina issued guidance to the local health departments recently advising them to move forward with seasonal swimming pool inspections.  This is encouraging news and we believe it to be a good sign that the state plans on seasonal swimming pools being open this summer.    We are continuing to the prepare for the season.  We are being told that most likely June 1 is a reasonable period for swimming pools to open.

CLICK HERE for NC Executive Order regarding pools.
CLICK HERE for CDC information.

1. If you missed theGCSAA’s Town Hall Briefing yesterday, here’s a link to the video:
   https://player.vimeo.com/video/407309738
   Speakers included Jeff Morgan, CMAA; Stuart Waugh, PGA of America; Jay Karen, GCOAA; and Rhett Evans, GCSAA.

III. As part of the above-referenced Town Hall Briefing, Stuart Waugh announced the establishment of a Golf Emergency Relief Fund:
Applications for individual grants from the fund, initiated by the PGA of America through a lead pledge of $5 million with a goal of raising at least $10 million, will be accepted starting Thursday, April 16, at 2 p.m. EST. Eligible recipients include PGA pros, members of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, and those affiliated with other supporting organizations. Grants of $500 for basic needs, $1,500 for critical needs and up to $3,500 in a second phase will be reviewed and awarded on a rolling, first-come, first-serve basis.
CLICK HERE for the press release / article in Club & Resort Business Magazine.

1. I have recently received several requests for information aboutEMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE FUNDS.  If you have such a fund already set up, have detailed information about doing so, or have a sample letter sent to your members, would you please share that information with me as soon as possible?  I know that some of you are eager to begin this process.
2.  See you tomorrow on Carolinas ZOOM!

Wednesday, April 15 at 10:00 am

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/379085619?pwd=cFljcklvQXU1andOWVZlU2ZtanpTZz09
[CUT AND PASTE IN YOUR BROWSER]

Meeting ID: 379 085 619
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1. Don’t forget to add to your calendar:

Tuesday, April 21 at 2:00 pm
Presentation for the Carolinas Chapter:
Whitney Reid Pennell and Joyce Halama / RCS Hospitality Group:

THE WAY FORWARD
STRATEGIZING FOR RE-OPENING
CREATE YOUR NEW GLOBAL AND DEPARTMENTAL OPERATIONAL STANDARDS

(while still being flexible with daily challenges)

• How Will Operations Change?
• Anticipating Member Expectations
• Employee Needs
• Planning Communications
• Timeline Planning In Phases

[Log in details and more information to come!]

Coronavirus – Carolinas Update 4/13 PM

We now know that there was extensive tornado and storm damage in the Upstate and Lowcountry areas of South Carolina last night and this morning, and nine deaths have been reported.
We hope that none of our Carolinas Chapter family experienced serious damage or injury from these storms.
If you did sustain damage and there is anything we can help you with, please let me know!

1.  Thanks to Alan Achatz for sendingcopies of the following posters:
   OSHA Workplace Poster
   OSHA Ten Steps to Reduce Risk (English)
   OSHA Ten Steps to Reduce Risk (Spanish)
2. In case you missed it: CLICK HERE for the list of this week’s webinars.

III. Don’t forget the Carolinas ZOOM event on Wednesday, April 15, at 10:00 am.  This will be our third event, and it is a great opportunity to share with and listen to your fellow Carolinas managers during this crisis.

Topic: CMAA Carolinas Chapter
Time: Apr 15, 2020 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/379085619?pwd=cFljcklvQXU1andOWVZlU2ZtanpTZz09
Meeting ID: 379 085 619
Password: 797712
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Meeting ID: 379 085 619
Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/acDqs5bHMM

2021. CCF Scholarship Recipients:  If you are the recipient of a Carolinas Club Foundation scholarship that expires in 2020, please note that the CCF Board has voted to extend this deadline to October 31, 2021.
2022.  Your Carolinas Chapter Board will be meeting via conference call this week to discuss the rest ofour 2020 event calendar, among other topics.  We should be able to give you more information soon about our 2020 conferences and meetings.

Finally, WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP YOU?
Please let us know what information you would like to see in these updates and what we can do to help you and your team through this unprecedented event.
Patricia and Cathy
patricia@carolinascmaa.org
cathy@carolinascmaa.org

Coronavirus – Carolinas Update 4/10 PM

There’s so much information I want to share with you as soon as I get it, and there’s just not enough time!  But here’s this afternoon’s collection…..

I.   MemberText – Justin Baer and MemberText are offering free service to clubs for 60 days during this pandemic.  Here’s their information for you:

As we are now under a state of emergency, clubs across the country are closing, instituting limited access and some are just doing to-go orders.
MemberText, the leading text marketing platform for clubs, has decided to offer their texting services to new clients for free for the next two months so that you can keep your members updated on club closures, disruptions, letting them text in to go orders and most importantly, keeping them safe.
Over 300 clubs use MemberText, because they realize that email open rates of 20-30% aren’t good enough to keep members notified with last minute changes and emergency notifications. Text open rates are 98%, can be sent from any device or computer and you can be assured that members will get your announcements and stay informed.
Please schedule a call here with Justin or watch this video on they can get you up and running in one hour, at absolutely no cost to you.
Their staff is working 7 days a week to make sure clubs are able to get setup quickly. If you have any questions, you can call/text Justin directly – (410) 935-1999.
PS – Check out this video of what General Managers are saying about using MemberText – Watch Here

II.  ClubsHELP – This is a new (two weeks) initiative whose purpose is to connect clubs with their local hospitals in order to get the supplies needed to those hospitals during this pandemic.  If you saw today’s NCA webinar, you are now familiar with this new program.  For specific information, go to www.clubshelp.org.

We’ll have more to come on this program.  Please let me know what you think.  Has your club been helping your local hospital?

III. CLICK HERE for Jeff Morgan’s message (from today’s email) and “The Week Ahead.”

IV. CLICK HERE for the April 10 NCA Updates.

V. CLICK HERE for an article and video from Associations Now.

VI. Next week’s webinars (so far!):

Monday, April 13   11:30 am   NCA – Government Relations with Dan Meyer, Chief of Staff, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy

Wednesday, April 15   2:00 pm   CMAA – Jodie Cunningham: Uncharted Territory – Logistics and Best Practices of Team Member Layoffs

Thursday, April 16   11:30 am   NCA – Supply Chain Impacts

Friday, April 17   11:30 am   NCA – How Golf Course Architects Can Help Clubs During COVID-19

Friday, April 17   2:00 pm   CMAA – Game,Set,Match with John Embree, USPTA

Register for all CMAA webinars:  CLICK HERE

Register for all NCA webinars:  CLICK HERE

Coronavirus – Carolinas Update –

FACE MASK SOURCES

Some of you have had a hard time finding sources for face masks for your F&B staffs who are serving to-go orders.  Your fellow managers have provided the following information:

CUSTOM INK

https://www.customink.com/products/categories/face-masks/205/styles?utm_content=shop_v3

SUPREME SALES

From: Supreme Sales
Sent: Wednesday, April 8, 2020 3:39 PM
To: patricia@carolinascmaa.org
Cc: Matthew Kolmes; Jiyoung Cha
Subject: We have the N95 and K95 face masks
Hi Patricia,
Steven at Catawba Country Club, informed me that you are looking for N95/KN95 masks. I hope that is correct.
We have the N95 and K95 face masks. Please let me know if you are interested in placing an order and how many you need.
Thank you,
Alex Bailey | Business Development Manager
325 Spencer Road NE, Conover, NC 28613 USA
Toll Free: +1 (888) 604-6975  |  Phone: +1 (828) 322-6975 Ext 130  |  Fax: +1 (828) 322-7881
Website: www.supremecorporation.com  |  www.tuffnlite.com  |

AD CONCEPTS USA

Teresa Fesmire
AD Concepts USA
adconceptsusa@att.net
14306 Ruddy Ct
Charlotte NC 28273
704-588-7666 office
704-906-9125
Teresa’s son is our Executive Sous Chef. We have ordered other items from her before and we were very happy with the products, however, we have not received the face masks yet probably next week.
Happy Easter.
Kamal Sakakini

CINTAS

We were able to get washable, personal facemasks from Cintas.  (Chris Conner)

HOT SHOT

We are using Fishing Gators for masks. They are $9.50 apiece for orders less than 100, or $9.00 each for orders over 100. They work really well in that staff are actually wearing them because they are more comfortable than a traditional mask (and don’t keep falling off). We have given them to every grounds, golf, F&B, Security, Equestrian, maintenance and housekeeping staff member. For less than $1,000 I have outfitted the entire organization. They are issued to each staff member and staff are responsible for washing them nightly. Hot Shot is the manufacturer. The number of the rep, David Osteen, that we get them from is (912) 659-4119. He dropped mine off personally, but ships across the U.S.  (From Marc Ray)

CITYWIDE

We use Citywide for our housekeeping and maintenance they have masks and sanitizer available. (James Ivankovich)

Sam Ross
General Manager
City Wide of North Carolina
City Wide of the Triad
(919) 869-0360
www.GoCityWide.com

#GolfAtHome – Playing Offense in the Off-Season

presented by:

ATTENTION CPGA MEMBERS & ASSOCIATES:

CPGA Partner, Operation 36, has a great program for you to keep connected with your junior golfers during the COVID-19 crisis. Whether you currently run an Op36 program or not, this is for you!

From Operation 36:

#GolfAtHome Webinar – Get to know the program
Thursday, April 2, 2020
3:00PM EST

Did you miss the webinar? No worries!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE RECORDING

Our hope is to provide value to those interested in learning how to run a remote coaching program during this time to stay connected with their players and families.  Our free #GolfAtHome program was designed to assist coaches who are looking to bridge the gap until their programs resume.  Not only does this help with the Coronavirus situation, but this is also a way to get creative during times you’re not normally running programs.

MORE #GOLFATHOME CHALLENGE INFORMATION

PGA Disaster Relief and PGA Member Assistance (PGA Members only)

The PGA of America is here to help those personally affected by the COVID-19 through PGA Disaster Relief and the PGA Member Assistance Program.

PGA Disaster Relief provides PGA Members reimbursement for out of pocket expenses incurred as the result of acute, serious illness, accidents, natural disasters and other emergencies not otherwise covered by insurance or other relief programs. This includes out of pocket medical expenses for serious situations, like hospitalizations, related to the COVID-19. To learn more about PGA Disaster Relief, please click here. To apply for PGA Disaster Relief, please click here.

PGA Members can also make contributions to the funds to assist those in need through the link above.

We are also aware that people are understandably concerned about their health, jobs and future during these unprecedented times. To help with this,  the PGA Member Assistance Program provides confidential, professional counseling and online services for a wide array of personal and well-being concerns.  We encourage you to remind your fellow Members they can seek help at resources.pga.org.

Additionally, new government programs have recently come out that we are researching and will continue to monitor to see how they can best benefit our membership including:

• Small Business Loans
• Families First Coronavirus Response Act

NC & SC UNEMPLOYMENT INFORMATION

The PGA has established a new resource center on PGA.org specific to helping our Professionals who are employers and/or employees with questions.  Because the specifics of employment law and recommended Covid-19 best practices are different state-by-state, we have included a link that will direct PGA Professionals to the 50 state departments of labor for information that is relevant based on their location.  Please pass this resource along to anyone looking for resources related to employment issues during these challenging times.

ASGCA launches “Great Junior Golf Design Challenge”

Fun way to help families pass time during Covid-19 crisis;
encouraging children to use their imagination to design a golf hole

BROOKFIELD, Wis. – The American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) has launched a program to showcase creativity in golf course architecture among young people. “The Great Junior Golf Design Challenge of 2020,” encouraging children to design their own golf hole, was created as a way to give families an opportunity to involve children in the art of golf course design during the worldwide crisis of COVID-19.

The challenge – a fun activity rather than a contest – is simple. Young people ages 17 and younger may submit design ideas for golf holes of any par, style or strategy, and from whimsical to serious. Submissions may be created in any medium (pencil, markers, crayon or digital) as long as it fits within the provided border from ASGCA. Scans or photos of designs may be sent via email to juniordesign2020@asgca.org  or uploaded via Twitter to @ASGCA to be shared on social media and ASGCA.org. Complete information may be found at https://asgca.org/great-junior-golf-design-challenge-2020/.

            “Families are struggling with having schools closed and the amount of ‘at-home time’ during this crisis,” said ASGCA President Jan Bel Jan. “A few of our members brainstormed the idea, which came to us from Jay Smith, an aspiring golf course architect based in McAlpin, Florida. We’re offering this positive diversion when so many are confined to their homes.”

            The emphasis of the program is to get creativity flowing, and to celebrate the art of golf course architecture among young people. Nathan Crace, ASGCA, and Lester George, ASGCA, stepped in to work on the idea, which came to Smith with the help of his wife, Rebecca. “It started as a simple idea of getting kids involved in the shadows of an unprecedented pandemic,” says Smith. “We thought it would boost morale and could evoke art, engineering, and geometry — in a fun way. Our youngest son, Johnny, enjoys watching me sketch and draw, submits his own ideas for my review. From there it just snowballed. It would have been great if this existed when I was younger.”

Crace shared his experiences. “As a young boy, I spent hours drawing imaginary golf holes on plain paper and by age 10 I had built three holes on my parents’ land in Indiana. Hopefully, this challenge will give boys and girls that same spark to display their creativity for everyone to see!”

            “It affords children the opportunity to express their creativity by imagining and graphically depicting their version of a fun and remarkable golf hole,” George added. “What better way to spend time during these days at home?”

ASGCA plans to share comments on the designs from ASGCA members and others who follow ASGCA on social media. “It’s important to point out that this is not a contest,” notes ASGCA Vice President Forrest Richardson. “The idea is to stimulate creativity and help take the edge off of the stress that comes with staying at home for a prolonged period and being uncertain of what comes next.”

ASGCA Background

Founded in 1947 by Donald Ross, Robert Trent Jones and 12 other leading architects, the American Society of Golf Course Architects is a non-profit organization comprised of experienced golf course designers located throughout North America. Members have completed a rigorous application process that includes the peer review of representative golf courses. ASGCA members are able to counsel in all aspects of golf course design and remodeling and comprise many of the great talents throughout the golf industry.

For more information about ASGCA, including a current list of members, visit http://www.asgca.org or call (262) 786-5960.

# # #

PGA OF AMERICA RESCHEDULES
2020 KPMG WOMEN’S PGA CHAMPIONSHIP FOR OCTOBER

5 Things to Know – April 8, 2020

The PGA CARES Act Town Hall Highlights Available Resources

As we all work through the significant challenges presented by the Coronavirus pandemic, we are trying to communicate to all PGA Professionals the resources that have been made available by the Federal Government through the CARES Act. We invite you to watch this one-hour PGA of America CARES Act Virtual Town Hall (also broken down question-by-question) with Tony Fratto of Hamilton Place Strategies.

Reach Out to Your Career Consultant
PGA Career Consultants are well versed in what is going on in local areas, and in the Government Programs that can help you during this pandemic. Connect with your PGA Career Consultant today.

Grow Your Career, Enroll in the Specialized Professional Program
Through June 30, 2020, you can access the Specialized Professional Program (full content library) free of charge. If you previously enrolled in this program, library subscriptions are extended by 90 days to accommodate this free period.

2020 PGA CHAMPIONSHIP POSTPONED

Event to be rescheduled for later this summer at TPC Harding Park

Carolinas GCSA Facilities Survey Results as of 3/19/20

Jani-King Best Practices for Carolinas PGA during COVID-19

Golf Professional Natural Disaster Facebook Page

Click the image above to see a best practice from CPGA Partner, GolfProPayments on ways facilities and restaurants can stay open for business without members stepping inside with their virtual processing.

‘We can play a small role in helping people get through this’:
Powhatan golf course embraces change to welcome players
CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

Mill Creek Golf Club Letter to Members
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Coronavirus COVID-19
FACILITY UPDATE
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

From Karl Kimball,  PGA – A “slide” to use in your golf shop to ensure social distancing from members, customers, and guests. They use a regular golf club box with the top cut off.

Industry Education
Many organizations are providing resources for the golf community at this time. Below are a few links to items that might be helpful to your organization or your member clubs.

National Club Association Webinars
Covid-19 Town Hall – View Recording
Legal Ramifications of COVID-19 and Your Club – View Recording
“Your Club is Closing, Now What?” – View Recording
COVID-19 Public Health Town Hall – View Recording

WE ARE GOLF
Click HERE to view daily updates from WE ARE GOLF

GCSAA
Click HERE to view the GCSAA COVID-19 Pandemic Resource site

NGCOA
Click HERE to view the NGCOA Resources for Courses