John Concannon Publicity

First of all, I want to thank the outgoing Board of Directors for the service to the Ironwood Men’s Golf Association during the past year. The Board members along with the dedicated chairmen have kept the association viable and enjoyable. Speaking of viability, Dan Jonker advised me that he has paid out over $12,000 in chits so far this year and with the influx of 2015 membership dues we will be in good shape to continue payouts for the coming year.

Speaking of memberships, so far we have 246 active and 26 handicap only members for 2015. The encouraging news is that we have 41 new members for next year. I guess that speaks, in part, to the playability of the Ironwood course.

At the last board meeting John Davis explained the relief rule for Scrambles. The IMGA local rule states that when taking relief a golfer can take one club length from the existing ball position but cannot improve his lie. In other words, one cannot take the one club relief and go from the rough into the fairway. We have a local rule because the USGA does not have any rule regarding taking relief when playing a Scramble, a format that does not exist within USGA sponsored play. Hopefully, this will settle any concerns expressed recently by some members.

The annual IMGA Awards Luncheon will be held at Ironwood on December 17 from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. All members are welcome. Details will be posted on the IMGA bulletin board.

If you have checked the 2015 schedule, you will note that the Ironwood Cup Tournament will be held on January 20 and 27 and February 3. It is a Low Net format as always and there is an additional prize this year. Within the tournament there will be a Super Senior championship for all those 75 years of age or older. A revolving trophy, a photo of which is posted on the bulletin board will be awarded to the winner.

Regarding our “walking wounded,” Tom Drynan underwent heart surgery recently and is at home recovering. Dean “ Deano” Bierly fell recently breaking his wrist, but I understand he is recovering well. If you know any member who is ill or in the hospital, please let me know so appropriate cards can be sent out from the association.

In as much as the next edition of the Splash comes out after Christmas, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas. May you receive the best present of all: good health.