Recently, I had the privilege of participating in a meeting of significant importance as part of my role as the GCSAA regional representative in Florida. The meeting was orchestrated by our Grassroots Ambassador, Bryce Gibson, CGCS, who exhibited exceptional strategic acumen. Present at this engagement were individuals including Jay Kennedy, director of golf at Interlachen Country Club, and a delegation from the office of our Congressional Representative Cory Mills (FL-7), comprised of staff members Amy Dunn, Noah Welchman, and J.R.

The initial exchange comprised of customary pleasantries and introductions. Subsequently, a comprehensive tour of the golf course ensued, meticulously guided by Bryce. This tour illuminated how the golf course functions as an urban oasis, aptly coined as a "Sanctuary in the City." Bryce deftly expounded upon the facilities’ pollinator habitats, the proficient Best Management Practices (BMPs) in place, as well as its pivotal role in rainwater absorption, notably demonstrated during Hurricane Ian last year. Furthermore, Bryce highlighted the judicious employment of recycled water for irrigation purposes, with surface water extraction amounting to a mere 12 million gallons annually. Noteworthy among the proceedings was a putting competition, injecting a congenial atmosphere into the meeting. In deference to our distinguished guest, I executed a deliberately modest putt, allowing for a positive outcome for the congressman.

Transitioning from the on-course tour, we convened within the clubhouse, sustaining our dialogue. The discourse, steered by Bryce, Jay, and me, traversed vital industry issues. A prominent point of discussion pertained to the H-2B Visa program, an imperative solution to labor shortages that permeate the industry. With the congressman’s military background, we also placed emphasis on the Warrior Alliance and the Double Eagle Program which also help meet a critical labor need. Furthermore, conversations encompassed our endorsement of turfgrass research, aimed at optimizing resource inputs including water, pesticides, and nutrients. My contribution centered upon communicating the positive economic ramifications of golf, both on a national scale and with specific relevance to our locality in Florida. Impressively, the congressman exhibited astute awareness of our industry's significant contributions to Florida's economic landscape.

Resonating profoundly with the congressman was our position on the PHIT Act. The congressman's resolute commitment to this cause was palpable, with an express pledge to champion this initiative amongst his peers in Congress. Overall, the tenor of our interaction was remarkably constructive, underscoring the potential synergy between the golf industry and our Congressional representative.

The discourse seamlessly segued into a luncheon, wherein our conversations spanned an array of golf-related subjects and the congressman's legislative agenda. Cumulatively, our engagement extended for nearly two and a half hours, a testament to its substantive and fruitful nature. The time was allocated effectively advancing our priority topics and nurturing a symbiotic relationship with our elected representative. 

Departing from the meeting, I recognized that this exchange exemplified the quintessence of our GCSAA Grassroots Ambassador Program, succinctly encapsulating its objectives. It is unmistakable that such interactions wield considerable potential to fortify our relationships with elected officials, offering our expertise and support in matters of mutual interest.

In my capacity as the GCSAA regional representative in Florida, I hold such engagements in high regard. To those inclined to explore a role as a GCSAA Grassroots Ambassador or those currently serving in this capacity, who aspire to engage with their respective representatives, I extend an invitation to connect with me or your designated GCSAA regional representative, or Michael Lee who oversees the program at headquarters. These opportunities augment our advocacy efforts, amplifying the golf industry's constructive influence with our elected representatives.