At long last, since I know many of you have been waiting (impatiently), here is the latest and greatest President's letter and newsletter. Well, "greatness" shall be judged by the reader but I know many of our newest members are anxiously waiting for their first newsletter and, even more, for a roster so they can call others to play golf.

Our 2009 season is in (ahem) full swing and there is much to talk about. First, I'd like to welcome all you brand-spanking-new members. You know who you are... but I would encourage all the not-so-spanking older members to make a point to meet the newbies and welcome them. I'm sure we're going to find some great new friends.

Well, it didn't take long for the season to move into high gear. Since I last wrote, all kind of things have been happening. In addition to our regular first and third Friday events, we kicked off the new year with our annual indoor event at the Golf Training Center. Sadly, this was also our last since, along with so many other businesses lately, the Center is closing its doors for good. If anyone can think of a suitable replacement for next year, the board would like to hear of it. Anyway, we packed the place with members looking to sharpen their skills for the summer. I hope the pro in attendance was helpful to those who took advantage of him. Winners of the contests were: Paul Howard, men's closest to the pin; Barbara Tiffany, women's closest to the pin; putting: Elliot Whitney and Kathy Blackall; and longest drive, Maureen Markelon and Greg Walker. Thanks, especially, to Debbie and Mary for the food and Angela, Jean and Jane for additional support. And thanks to Don for hooking us up with the Center and making arrangements.

Normally, we wouldn't have a second indoor event but Golf-Tec in Stamford (at Ridgeway Plaza) made us an offer we just couldn't refuse. Charlie got them to offer us a night of free group lessons. What a deal! Only $10-15 for hours of instruction and pizza and refreshments! Those of us who were able to get in the doors picked up quite a few tips and hints thanks to the staff and all their state-of-the-art equipment. We all received valuable instruction in putting, chipping, driving and strength and conditioning. We overstayed our welcome a bit but they couldn't have been friendlier and even shared in the pizza with us. Golf Tec has offered our members tempting discounts on their training plans. Give them a call at 203-325-4653 and mention ASGA if you're interested. Also, personal trainer Chris Terenzio, who was also there, would love to talk with members further about his conditioning programs. You can reach him at: 203-253-3179 (ask him about discounts at Gym Source).

Speaking of instruction, we held our first Third-Friday clinic at Sterling Farms. This was also very well attended and I'm sure Barbara Bolton has everybody chipping like the pros now. Speaking of Third Friday, we have now moved from The Royal Green back to The Player's Club across the parking lot. Players is a little less formal with a great view of the golf course. Come by, grab a glass of wine and chat with other ASGA'ers!

And, speaking of Sterling Farms, it was the site of our first 18-hole outing of the season. We had a full group of 32 for this one (though one had to drop out because of an ankle injury... hope that's healing well...). Though quite warm, it was a great day for golf and the course staff couldn't have been nicer. Closest to the pin winners were Joan Sheehy and Michael Ali. Congratulations! Your bags of prize money are on a Brinks truck coming your way. Dinner and tall tales followed at the Royal Green and a great time was had by all!

Thanks to our illustrious golf chairmen, we have a (mostly) firm schedule of events for the season. Hopefully this will allow everyone to make plans well in advance. Thanks Charlie and Don! Next up on the schedule is Tashua Knolls on May 16. Probably, by the time you get this, we will have played, so details will follow in the next letter. Our nine-hole events have also started but, unfortunately, the Orchards on May 3 was rained out. Don't worry, there are many more to come.

Don would like me to remind everyone about our fantastic Foxwoods adventure coming in July. It's not too early to sign up for rooms at the Bellissimo Grande ($99/night per room), the cocktail party, transportation to Foxwoods to lose some money and golf at the fabulous Pequot Golf Club in Stonington on Saturday. You should have received all the info by email by now. Contact Don right away if you're interested. Spots are filling fast! By the way, we have over 15 people going to the Homestead for the big National weekend. I've heard a rumor they're looking for more men so there may be some spots left for this great event.

Oops, almost forgot, we tried a winter non-golf event this year. Bowling and breakfast at Nutmeg Lanes in Fairfield. About 18 keglers showed up to get perked up on coffee and take our agressions out on the poor, defenseless pins. The pins lost. Afterwards we moseyed on up to the Bear and Grille for grog and grub. This was so successful, I'm sure we'll be doing it again next winter.

Speaking of good times, while our attendance at Rowley's on First Friday has been quite good, those of you who have left early have missed a few great bands who play a little later. If you like dancing, stick around awhile.

Finally, I'd really like to thank Jean and Angela for their work on the publicity committee. Some of you may have noticed the regular listings in the "Go" magazine section in the CT Post, Stamford Advocate, Greenwich Time and Norwalk Hour. Hopefully, this will bring in some new members. Yes, more men for you ladies!
-Greg Walker, President