Who are we?

The names to the right of this column (if you’re reading in print) represent only a small part of the terrific team responsible for producing Golf Course Industry.

Our internal support network at GIE Media includes an impressive collection of audience development specialists, email savants, web developers, market and production coordinators, sales gurus, marketing magicians, accounting and human resource personnel, and editors and designers from sister publications. Without their knowledge and dedication, we don’t reach the proper audience with carefully targeted and timely content.

To prepare for expanded roles, publisher Dave Szy and I recently met with Kevin Caslow, our enthusiastic and passionate search engine optimization specialist. Kevin’s job involves helping us direct you to content created to assist, inspire and inform.

Kevin asked us multiple overarching questions about Golf Course Industry. The probing forced us to think critically and analytically, stretching our minds as we pondered the following question: Who are we?

Answering this question represents one of my first official tasks as editor.

Candid

Our columnists opine on whatever they want. Think of how many times you have reached the end of a Pat Jones column and wondered, “He actually went there!” Tim Moraghan wrote a column this month (page 30) based on a conversation with a superintendent blindsided by his dismissal. A tough topic tackled by a gutsy writer.

Our annual “Turfheads Take Over” allows readers to write about whatever topic they deem fit. Last year’s issue featured six submissions crafted by your peers to raise awareness and offer solutions for the mental anguish the job afflicts.

We don’t have a happy narrative to protect or event space to sell. We have readers to serve. Our format removes barriers to best serving them.

Caring

This is your publication. We receive dozens of news releases, announcements and article submissions from readers and partners each month. Unless they are overly commercial, unprofessional or poorly crafted, we will find a spot for them. Print space might be limited, but our website, social media feeds, Fast & Firm enewsletters and podcast network offer vast editorial acreage.

We’re also boosters of numerous industry organizations and efforts. Ever complete one of our State of the Industry surveys? If so, you have donated to the Wee One Foundation.

Creative

Everything our creative director Jim Blayney touches becomes punchier and easier to consume. His presence and determination allow us to push boundaries.

Columnists Terry Buchen, Henry DeLozier and Matthew Wharton are always looking for unique ways to help and inspire readers, while talented contributing writers Trent Bouts, Ron Furlong, Anthony Williams, Rick Woelfel, Judd Spicer, John Torsiello and Kurt Kleinham put distinct twists on stories.

We also have a newcomer who will help us elevate our offerings: managing editor Matt LaWell. Matt has visited and conducted multimedia tours of every full-season Minor League Baseball ballpark, created and hosted live trivia shows, covered professional, college and high school sports, and produced compelling content for manufacturing and business publications. We’re thrilled he’s part of our team.

Add the pieces together, and I’m entering a terrific situation as editor.