The USGA is the not-for-profit governing body of the game of golf. Existing to preserve and protect golf's tradition, this organization monitors the rules of golf and equipment standards in an effort to ensure that skill rather than technology represents the essence of the game. The USGA also conducts turfgrass and environmental research, maintains a National Handicap and Course Rating System and preserves an extensive collection of golf memorabilia at its museum and library. On behalf of all golfers, both Amateur and Professional, the USGA conducts three Open Championships each year -- Women's, Men's, and Senior Men's - and ten Amateur Championships.

The PGA is the Professional Golf Association that represents the Professional Golfers in the country. The PGA sponsors many tournaments for its professional players, which are open only to professionals.

Each year a number of USGA championships are televised. ESPN and NBC typically televise the U.S. Open, the U.S. Women's Open and the U.S. Senior Open. The 10 amateur championships are broadcast on NBC, ESPN or the Golf Channel.

Arnold Palmer has been the Volunteer National Chairman for the USGA Members Program since its inception. He undoubtedly has done a tremendous amount for the game of golf. Mr. Palmer can be reached at the following address:

Arnold Palmer
Volunteer National Chairman
USGA
PO Box 746
Far Hills, NJ 07931