Why are we here? The short answer is "to promote and preserve the best interests of the Michigan golf industry." That's what the mission statement says, written almost 40 years ago. That mission hasn't changed. We are grateful to our members and our industry partners for making the MGCA the "voice of Michigan golf business."
Spring 2025
March is “in like a lamb, out like a lamb” and the 2025 Golf Season is underway in Southern Michigan. We are hoping for another quick start for our Northern Michigan courses as well by late-April. This time of year, is for renewal and excitement as we all get ready for another great season of golf in Michigan.
Every year the challenges ahead are either foreseen or unforeseen. This year we have the added challenge of meeting the new State of Michigan legislative requirements relating to the increased minimum wage package that was approved and the new Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA), which will stretch our already thin administrative staffs to maintain compliance. Not ideal, but hopefully there will be creative ways to continue to meet the needs of our industry and our facilities.
MGCA has added our new Classifieds section to the MGCA website. Will your equipment meet your facility’s needs for this season and seasons to come? Do you have equipment in good condition that could provide value to someone else? Our goal is to provide a marketplace for all types of equipment you might need or offer “For Sale” that another operator may be in need of that equipment. A classic Win-Win opportunity. Easy to set up and use, this could become a real savings for your Balance Sheet. Try it out and let us know what you think.
It’s hard to believe but we’ve gone through year two of our Registered Apprentice program. Two seasons to go. Funding for training has been made available and your facility could easily benefit from that, not to mention elevating your Maintenance Staff expertise level. The interest in the program has been elevated, but we are still looking for a number of courses to jump on board with this opportunity. Our motto has been “always be hiring, always be training.” With the Registered Apprentice program, you have the opportunity to get paid for both.
A hearty, "Thank You," to our current Board of Directors, including our newest member Lowell Weaver from the Medalist in Marshall, MI. Your Board meets quarterly, the Executive Committee monthly, outside of all the major events on the MGCA calendar to help steer the organization forward. It is quite a commitment. I value their many contributions as we look towards the future for the golf course operator and Michigan’s golf industry. We are always looking for a few good operators to share their knowledge and contribute their expertise. Call any one of our Board Members or our Executive Staff to see how and where you can get involved.
Ready, set, GO! Get me to June 1 when the real action begins for all golf courses statewide. Good luck and we’ll see you on the back nine of our season in the next Tee off Times.
Sincerely,
Jim Szilagyi
MGCA President
Owner, Operator
LYNX Golf Course
Michigan Golf Course Association
411 W. Lake Lansing Rd, Suite A110
East Lansing, MI 48823
O: 517.482.4312
MI Toll Free: 1.800.860.8575
