ON DECEMBER 8, 2009, NRPA invited golf industry leaders to meet for a discussion on the benefits of golf as they relate to NRPA's Recreation and Park agency members: Paul Metzler, Senior Director, Association and Industry Services, The PGA of America; Ron Stepanek, Senior Manager, Player Development, The PGA of America; Paul Foley, Executive Director, Golf Course Builders Association of America; Rhett Evans, COO.

Golf Course Superintendents Association of America; Betsy Clark, President, National Alliance for Accessible Golf; Aileen Smith, Program Manager. American Society Golf Course Architects; Lyne Tumlinson, Director of Career Services, GSCAA; Joe Beditz, CEO, National Golf Foundation; Steve Mona, CEO, World Golf Foundation; and Joellen Lampman, Program Manager, Audubon International were among the attendees. The dialogue centered on the resources, expertise, and research (for both the park and recreation professionals, and for the public) that not only augment the game of golf, but also assist our members in building, maintaining, and funding courses. As a result of this gathering, NRPA will develop a summary and timeline for execution of the agreed recommendations, including what will be collected and presented on NRPA's website: (a) advocacy across economic, health and conservation; (b) facilities/infrastructure management and information sharing; and, (c) human benefits of golf. This meeting is the first step to ensuring that all NRPA members receive the most up-to-date and relevant information they need to serve the public. ?