Dear Matt and All,
This is a great "problem" to have, that people are interested in getting set to attend the Educational Conference and GIS. I know that part of the issue in holding back release of the official or final information is to make sure that all speakers, instructors and session topics are "locked in" so as to not mislead or disappoint anyone.
That being said, I agree with you that several employment situations or personal/family budget planning, need 6 months to maybe even a years lead time to plan for such an event/trip. I know that Rhett and GCSAA staff try to balance the get it out early vs make sure it is accurate delima as best they can. I promise that we will look at the process to make sure that we try to help potential attendees such as yourself with "lead time" needs as best we can with possibly "estimated costs (?)" and justification help.
Also I would like to pass along a reminder that although the website and various GCSAA communications have vast amounts of information, we also have 15,000 members with individual needs that sometimes the answers or help is not there or easily found. My personal experience with not being a "modern technology wiz" is the old fashioned phone call to 800-472-7878 (HQ Member Solutions). Never in my 30 years of membership, did I not get a timley and satifactory answer to an question or problem resolved. Our staff is exceptional and will help 24/7.
Please know that any Director would be willing to help and we want to hear if there are member needs that are not being met. I sure hope to see you in Orlando.
Peter Grass
GCSAA Class A Member, Certified
GCSAA Director
Hilands Golf Club
Billings, MT
pgrass@gcsaa.org