To All OGCSA Members:

Over the past several years I have had the privilege  of being the chairperson of the OGCSA pr/media committee. We have an outstanding committee that consists of Gordon Kiyokawa, Bob Senseman and our pr/media director Greg Crawford. As a committee we talk often and meet on a regular basis.

While all OGCSA members should be proud of our pr/media efforts, more importantly the program is there for you as members to utilize and take advantage of. Greg is always available to work with members and assist anyone with media issues. If you have stories please contact Greg, always keeping in mind we discuss media opportunities among the committee and how we want to proceed. Not all stories make the final cut and we are also respectful of what the media expects from us. (Greg Crawford's contact info is: gcrawford4444@gmail or 503-407-8255.)

While we are in no way perfect, we are always striving to get better and figure out the best way we can service our members regarding media and public relations issues. Often, quietly, Greg has been able to stifle many negative stories which had the potential to be damaging to our industry. At times it is a constant battle, but Greg tries as best he can to keep his thumb on the pulse of issues pertinent to our industry, while at the same time continuing a relationship with media who cover our industry.

Greg is available to assist any member with media training and help as previously stated, but here are some tips which might be helpful concerning media issues. As Greg Crawford has educated all of us over the years, we often have a negative view of the media, but more often than not, we can also take advantage of the positive side of the media.

1. If the media calls you, do not avoid them. If you have a media policy at your place of business, follow that policy, but do get back to whoever called.
2. If it gets to the point of an interview, never be afraid to say you do not know the answer, but will get back in a timely manner. The media appreciates this, rather than guessing.
3. Never use the term "NO COMMENT". This sends a red flag for sure; instead follow point 2.
4. Be aware of hot button issues and be ready to respond to them. Not only are the media at anytime, going to ask about chemical use on the golf course, but your golfers and neighbors are also going to ask as well. Also, always stay up on the issue of water, this is a hot button issue and an issue can often just come out of the blue. It is always good to be prepared, you never know.
5. As OGCSA members, you can also act as the eyes and ears for the pr/media committee. If you hear of a negative story brewing, which might not even have a direct impact on you personally, but will have a direct impact on our industry, please let anyone on the pr/media committee know.

In conclusion our media/pr program is here for you as members and we all appreciate the work you do each and every day and at times the media needs to know about that work.

Thank you,

Russ Vandehey, Chair
Gordon Kiyokawa
Bob Senseman