BY-LAWS of the PALM DESERT GREENS MEN’S GOLF CLUB
Article 1 NAME, AFFILIATIONS, and DEFINITIONS
The name of the organization is the Palm Desert Greens Men’s Golf Club, which is affiliated with the SCGA and the USGA. Titles and abbreviations used in this document are:
- PDGMGC Palm Desert Greens Men’s Golf Club
- SCGA Southern California Golf Association
- USGA United States Golf Association
- PDGCC Palm Desert Greens Country Club
- Association Palm Desert Greens Homeowners Association
- Board PDGMGC Board of Directors
- Club Palm Desert Greens Men’s Golf Club
Article 2 PURPOSE
The purpose of the Club is to provide a quality golf experience with competitive events, social fellowship, and golf rules awareness. Further, it seeks to assure the integrity and enjoyment of the game through enforcement of SCGA, USGA, and PDGCC rules and regulations.
Article 3 MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. Qualifications.
Any male owner of property in PDGCC or male resident with Association golf privileges is eligible for membership.
Section 2. Acceptance
An applicant becomes a member upon the payment of dues and a PDGMGC application approved by both the Membership Chair and Handicap Chair.
Section 3. Classes
- A Full Member meets the qualifications in Sec.1 and 2 above, and has attained age 55. When his SCGA status becomes active, he is eligible for all Club competitions, subject to Board policy.
- An Associate Member meets the qualifications in Sec. 1 and 2 above, but has not attained age 55. When his SCGA status becomes active, he is eligible only for Club Sweeps competitions, including Turkey and Ham Shoots. He may not compete in major monthly tournaments, including the Club Championship. (Grandfather clause: an Associate Member who has maintained continuous membership since the By-Laws Revision of November 4, 2004 is exempt from the competition restrictions.) When an Associate Member attains age 55 and submits proof to the club, he becomes a Full Member.
- A Social Member meets the qualifications of Sec. 1 and 2 above, has attained age 55, but pays dues at a reduced rate with no SCGA status. He may attend tournament luncheons with the payment of the meal cost, and is welcome at other non-golf Club events.
- A Life Member has been nominated by the Board for extended and outstanding service, then elected to lifetime status by the membership at a regular Club meeting. The Club pays his dues and SCGA fee as long as he remains active in club affairs.
- A Complimentary Member is Board designated and works closely with the Club through the PDGCC golf or community facilities. Age and property owner or golf privilege requirements are waived, and the Club pays his dues and SCGA fee for as long as that working relationship continues.
Sec. 4 Rights, Responsibilities, and Expectations
- Rights
All members have the right to question, disagree with, or express an opinion on any Club policy or activity. They have the right to vote in elections and to seek elected office or other Board positions. They have the right to fair and unbiased treatment by other members. -
Responsibilities
All members have the responsibility to conduct themselves as gentlemen, and to honor the Club Code of Conduct. They have the responsibility to keep informed about Club policies and procedures, and to notify the pro shop if canceling a tee time. They have the responsibility to treat other members fairly and without bias. - Expectations
All members are strongly urged to compete regularly, attend monthly membership meetings, participate in Club activities, and always act in the best interests of the Club
Sec. 5 Annual Dues
The amount of annual dues is determined by the Board and is payable on October 1 for the membership year beginning then and ending on September 30. Unpaid dues become delinquent on December 1 and are subject to a penalty, also determined by the Board. Unpaid dues on December 31 result in automatic termination of membership and loss of SCGA status, and a member thus terminated must apply for reinstatement.
Sec. 6 Rejection of Applicant or Termination of Member
The Board has the power to reject an applicant’s request for membership or to terminate a current member on the basis of character or unacceptable conduct. A rejected applicant or terminated member has the right to appeal the Board’s decision directly to the members at a membership meeting. After stating the appeal, the person leaves the meeting and the membership votes by a simple majority to uphold or overturn the Board’s decision.
Article IV BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Sec. 1 Structure, Power to Make Policy, and Authority to Vote
The elected officers of the Club and appointed positions constitute the Board. These Board members are authorized to determine the policies and affairs of the Club and to vote on any issue concerning Club business. The details of how events such as elections, tournaments, Sweeps competitions, etc. are conducted are to be defined in writing and filed with the Club Secretary.
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Club Liaison
Member-at-Large USA
Member-at-Large Canada
Handicap Chair/SCGA Delegate
Membership Chair
Tournament Chair
Publicity Chair
Care and Compassion Chair
Hole-in-One Chair
Rules Chair
AM Sweeps Chair
Webmaster
Sec. 2 Appointment Procedures and Parliamentarian
The President, with approval by a majority of the other elected officers, is required to appoint the Chair positions above. He may appoint Co-Chairs for a particular position if warranted. He may, but is not required to, appoint a Parliamentarian to advise on issues of proper order, but who has no voting authority. The Parliamentarian relies on the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order as procedural authority.
Sec. 3 Past President
The immediate Past President of the Club is an ex-officio member of the Board, serves in an advisory capacity, and has voting authority.
Sec.4 Multiple Board Positions
An individual may hold no more than one elected office, but may also hold one appointed position. In addition, an individual may hold two appointed positions.
Sec. 5 Duties of Board Members
In general, Board Members serve to promote and maintain an active golf club with reasonable costs to the membership. They administer Club affairs, make and change Club policy as needed, and settle questions of by-laws interpretations. They report their Club business activities to the Board and membership at scheduled meetings, and promptly transmit to the Treasurer any Club fees or payments received. Committee Chairs may appoint additional members to assist them in their duties .When a member leaves the Board, he assists his successor in the transition.
5.1 The President exercises general oversight of Club affairs, coordinates the activities of the other Officers and Chairs, conducts all Board and membership meetings, and is an ex-officio member of all committees except Nominating. He is responsible for the enforcement of Club By-Laws and regulations, the scheduling of Club events and facility use with the Association, and is the Club’s representative to the larger PDGCC community.
5.2 The Vice President assists the President, acts on his behalf as requested, and conducts meetings in the President’s absence.
5.3 The Secretary keeps records of Club proceedings, and has overall supervision of meeting minutes, by-laws, and policies. He maintains the official correspondence of the Club. In the absence of both President and Vice President from a meeting, he conducts the meeting and appoints a secretary pro tem to record the proceedings.
5.4 The Treasurer receives, deposits, and disburses all Club funds and keeps detailed records of all financial transactions. He maintains the Club bank account, ensures that Club records agree with the monthly bank statement, and verifies that all Club checks are signed by two of these officers: President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary. He documents all income, expense, and reimbursement with appropriate forms and signatures. He prepares monthly statements of the Club’s financial position, submits them to the Association, and makes them available to the Board and membership. He ensures that the Club complies with the Association’s audit expectations.
5.5 The Club Liaison attends all Association Golf Committee meetings and presents a summary of Club activity and positions on current issues. He reports the actions of the Golf Committee to the Board and membership and is guided by their response. He consults with the Association General Manager, Golf Professional, and Greens Superintendent but does not interfere with their duties.
5.6 The Member at Large USA (an American resident) and the Member at Large Canada (a Canadian resident) serve as membership representatives to the Board. Both are open to the concerns of the entire membership, and convey suggestions and comments on Club activities to the Board. Certain issues impacting Canadian members may be better communicated via the Member at Large Canada (and a similar American rationale,) but both Members at Large represent the interests of all members.
In addition, the Members at Large perform other duties as requested or assigned by the President. These include financial sponsor development, management, and recognition; facilitation of special PDGCC functions like the Charity Tournament and Club events like Welcome Back; and ad hoc committee work.
5.7 The Handicap Chair/SCGA Delegate has completed relevant SCGA Certification. He verifies that accurate scores are reported for handicap purposes, ensures that each member or guest index is accurate prior to each competition, and is responsible for the club’s computerized handicap system. He works with the Membership Chair to review and approve membership applications, and communicates on the Club’s behalf with the SCGA on these and related matters.
5.8 The Care and Compassion Chair actively seeks information about the health and welfare of members and of their close families. He sends get well and sympathy cards, and other appropriate expressions of Board and membership concern. He may make personal visits as appropriate.
5.9 The Hole-in-One Chair records names and supporting information of members who score a qualifying hole-in-one, presents authorized trophies and awards, and supervises end of season cash pool prize distribution.
5.10 The Membership Chair processes all applications for Club membership and maintains an accurate member roster including Life and Complimentary members. He works with the Handicap Chair to ensure that all member applications are processed promptly, and with the Publicity Chair and Webmaster to inform the membership of Club events and procedures. He keeps member information current so that email and telephone contact can be accomplished quickly and efficiently.
5.11 The Publicity Chair initiates or expedites all Club information on appropriate media. These include but are not limited to print, PDGCC Channel 98, Club and Association websites, and commercial social media. He works with the Membership Chair and Webmaster to effectively inform and motivate the membership.
5.12 The Webmaster manages and maintains the Club’s website and works with the Publicity Chair and Secretary to ensure that all content is accurate, current, and relevant. Information and tools available on the website include but are not limited to: Board contact information and commentary, tour-nament and Sweeps results, frost delay notices, membership meeting minutes, current events, membership applications, By-Laws, policies, and a link for score posting.
5.13 The Tournament Chair is responsible for the planning, organization and management of the Club’s monthly major tournaments, with team and individual formats consistent with traditional stroke play and Club policy. He coordinates these events with the Golf Professional, Greens Superintendent, Restaurant Manager, Handicap Chair, and Treasurer. Each event requires a budget, to be approved by the Board in advance. Other responsibilities include contestant pairings, course set-up, score checking and posting, meal arrangements, determining winners, and awarding prizes. Because these items are detailed and time consuming, the Tournament Chair is required to form a committee of at least two other members to assist him directly and in the delegation of tasks to staff and volunteer assistants.
5.14 The AM Sweeps Chair, in cooperation with the Golf Professional, plans, organizes and directs the Wednesday morning events. He selects the format, posts results, and determines winners, while ensuring that all Sweeps players are members in good standing. For the afternoon Sweeps, these duties are most effectively handled directly by the Golf Professional and his staff, but the President may appoint a PM Sweeps Chair should the need arise.
5.15 The Rules Chair interprets and enforces the Rules of Golf as defined by the USGA. He consults with the Golf Professional as needed and may recommend Board disciplinary action for violations, especially ones that are repeated. A member thus sanctioned has the right to appeal the Board’s action to the membership in the manner described in Article III, Section 6.
Sec. 6 Vacancies on the Board
Should an appointed position become vacant, the President with Board approval promptly appoints a replacement. In the event an elected office other than the President becomes vacant, the other officers become responsible for the performance of the vacancy’s necessary duties and seek a suitable replacement to be approved by the membership. In the event the President’s office becomes vacant, the Vice President assumes his office and duties and the other officers seek a suitable Vice President replacement to be approved by the membership.
Article V ELECTION of OFFICERS
Sec. 1 Nominating Committee
In an election year, the President with Board approval appoints a Nominating Committee Chair and at least one other Committee member. He introduces them at the December membership meeting. The President may appoint additional members as needed, but no Committee member may be a current Board member. The Committee actively seeks candidates for the elected offices and may nominate themselves. They report a slate of at least one candidate for each office at the January membership meeting.
Sec. 2 Nominations from the Floor
At the February membership meeting, the Nominating Committee again reports the slate and calls for nominations from the floor. Candidates so nominated who intend to accept must do so at the time in person or by letter.
When nominations are closed, the President calls for a membership majority vote to elect uncontested candidates. He then calls for an election by ballot for any office with two or more nominees.
Sec. 3 Election Committee
If an election by ballot is required, the President with Board approval appoints an Election Committee of at least three members, none of whom are candidates for office nor members of the Nominating Committee. The Election Committee prepares a sample ballot listing candidates and offices, and, no later than 3 days after the February membership meeting, posts this ballot on the Club bulletin board for the membership’s information. Additional postings via email and website are recommended ed-hrvatski.com.
Sec. 4 Election by Ballot
The Election Committee conducts this process according to Board policy governing the method and timing of elections. They prepare identical unnumbered ballots in the form of the sample above. They prepare a signed report tabulating the results and the number of votes cast for each candidate and certify the winners, with ties decided by lot. Winners are posted on the Club bulletin board within 24 hours of election closing, and email notification and website posting is recommended as above. The Committee’s full signed report is filed with the Club Secretary.
Sec. 5 Term of Office
The term of office for all elected officers is two years beginning May 1 and ending April 30. No elected officer may serve more than 2 consecutive terms in one office. Appointed positions serve for a term of one year beginning May 1 and ending April 30, but may continue to be reappointed with no formal term limit.
Article VI MEETINGS
Sec. 1 Membership Meetings
Regular membership meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month, October through April. The Annual Membership Meeting is held on the third Tuesday of March. Its purpose is to report to the membership the state of the Club and its finances, review the season, recognize Club Champions and other notable member achievements, and to install officers in election years. The Board may approve alternative dates for Membership Meetings as needed.
Sec. 2 Board Meetings
Regular meetings of the Board are held on the first Tuesday of each month, October through April. If the first Tuesday falls on a holiday, the meeting will be held on the second Tuesday. The Board may approve alternative dates as needed. At all other times the Board meets only if the elected officers determine that there is Club business that cannot be addressed in any other way. These Special Board Meetings may be called on reasonable notice by the President or by four other elected officers.
Sec.3 Quorums
A quorum for any regular membership meeting requires at least four elected officers and five percent of the membership including Board members. A quorum for any Board meeting requires eight Board members, four of whom are elected officers.
Sec. 4 Proxy Voting
A Board member absent from a Board meeting may give his proxy, with voting instructions, to another Board member who must vote as instructed. The proxy may be used to satisfy the quorum requirement and a Board member may vote only one proxy. The same proxy privilege applies to any member at a regular membership meeting.
Article VII AMENDMENT OF THE BY-LAWS
These By-Laws may be amended or repealed only at a special meeting called for that purpose or at a regular membership meeting with a By-Laws vote on the agenda announced to the membership at least 7 days in advance. A quorum for such a meeting requires ten percent of the membership including Board members. The membership votes to accept the entire proposal and a two thirds majority vote is needed to approve. An amended document becomes effective immediately.
Approved by the Board of Directors January 7, 2020
Adopted by the Membership January 28, 2020
Member Renewal Application
Contact Us
Contact us
New Member Info
Join the Club!
The membership year runs from October 1st through September 30th. Annual dues are $70.00. You must have an established handicap with the USGA, SCGA, or GOLF CANADA FACTOR. Lacking one of these you may establish a handicap by submitting 5 signed and attested scorecards to the handicap chairman.
Full Membership
Full membership in the Palm Desert Greens Men’s Golf club is available to all men of good character, 55 years or older, who either own property in Palm Desert Greens or rent there with golf privileges recognized by the Association.
Associate Membership
Associate membership is available to residents under the age of 55 who would otherwise meet all the qualifications listed above for full membership. Associate members may play in the weekly Sweeps including Turkey Shoot and Ham Shoot. Associate members may not compete in the Men’s Club monthly tournaments nor in the Club Championship.
Social Member
Social members must meet all the requirements of a full member with the exception of having a handicap. They may attend closing day tournaments, award luncheons, and any other men’s club events after payment of costs. Annual dues for Social Members are $22.00.
You can complete a membership application here.
Welcome to our club!
If you’ve already joined, thank you. If not, we invite you to enjoy some friendly competition, cordial fellowship, and the opportunity to enhance your golf experience here at Palm Desert Greens.
The following sections contain a little information about our leadership and procedures, as well as a membership application. Much more can be found in the golf info room adjacent to the pro shop and on our own website: pdgmgc.com.
Our board members stand ready to answer your questions and help you get comfortable. We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you on the golf course.
PDG Men’s Golf Board of Directors.
Affiliate of Southern CA Golf Assn.(SCGA) & US Golf Assn. (USGA )
Annual Dues $70
(Handicap services, SCGA magazine/email offers, weekly AM and PM sweeps, monthly tournaments, Hole-in-One entry fee, Welcome Back Lunch in November)
Biennial Elections in March (Officers, Executive Board)
Monthly General Meetings
(3rd Tues., Guest Speaker, Rules Forum, Club Business)
Hole-in-One Awards and Cash Payout
Showcase Event: Member-Guest Tournament in February
(Fri. Practice & Cocktail Party, Sat. Breakfast & Round 1,
Sun. Round 2 & Filet Mignon Awards Luncheon)
Website: pdgmgc.com
(photos, rules, entry forms, news, events, commentary, meeting minutes, club by-laws and policies, calendar, contact information, frost delay notices)
Golf Sign-Up Procedures
There are three ways to sign up to play golf at PDG.
- For Men’s Club events:
- Ballot Box for weekly Wednesday AM and PM Sweeps. The box is in the clubhouse on Wednesdays to sign up for the
following week, and in the Golf Info Room at all other times. - Entry form for monthly major tournaments. These are available in the Golf Info Room several weeks before each event.
- Ballot Box for weekly Wednesday AM and PM Sweeps. The box is in the clubhouse on Wednesdays to sign up for the
- For “Non-Men’s Club” shotguns on Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat., and Sun., use the clipboards located in the Golf Pro Shop.
- For Thursday AM tee times, call 568-3232 starting at 7:00 AM on Wednesday.
Details on all PDG golf sign-up and other procedures are found on the Homeowners Association website: pdgcc.com
Wednesday Sweeps Sign-In Procedure
- Men’s Golf Club members have priority for Sweeps tee times in both AM and PM Shotguns.
- Non-members who wish to play, but not in the Sweeps, should check in with the Pro Shop for hole assignment, if available.
- Players may submit ballots for tee times from Wednesday through Sunday 12 noon.
- From November through April, once per month toward the end, the format of both AM and PM Sweeps will be a team game with members selected randomly by computer. Specific team dates will be posted in advance. All other Sweeps events will be individual with the option to sign up and play with members of your choice.
- A random drawing will determine starting holes for up to 144 players in each Sweeps event, with any excess placed on standby. Starting holes are posted by Monday PM. Players selected who cannot play, AS A COURTESY TO OTHERS, please call to cancel ASAP at (760) 341-5877.
ATTENTION ATTENTION ATTENTION
ALL PLAYERS, AM and PM, ARE REQUIRED TO SIGN IN AT LEAST 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SHOTGUN TIME. FAILURE TO DO DO SO MAY ELIMINATE YOUR PRIORITY STATUS OR PARTICIPATION IN THE EVENT.
Current entry fee (since April 2014) is $5.00. Of this amount, during the regular season $4.00 is designated for payouts, and $1.00 is held by the Club’s general fund for member expenses such as the Welcome Back event. From May 1 to Opening Day, the full $5.00 is used for payouts.
Application for Membership
Policies
Budget, Audit, and Financial Forms
The Treasurer submits a monthly financial summary to the Association and also oversees an outside audit of the PDGMGC books each May. When complete he submits the results with a letter of explanation to the Association to ensure compliance with current audit requirements.
All requests for expense reimbursement are accompanied by a signed Check Request form and receipts. All cash transactions require a Receipts and Deposit form signed by provider and receiver.
Adopted February 4, 2020
Donations
The PDGMGC is often requested to contribute cash or other items to various causes and events. Because we cannot contribute to all who ask, rather than appear as insensitive at least, or downright mean at most, the Club has established a policy to respond.
It shall be the policy of the Board to recognize categories of donation requesters, both from outside and from within the PDGCC community, and to budget accordingly. The recognized requesters shall include, but not be limited to, the annual PDG Charity Tournament, and the annual Employee Appreciation Day. All requests for donations will be brought before the Board for consideration.
Adopted March 4, 2014
Each May, in conjunction with the final tournament, the Club will make a donation to the PDG Flag Fund to honor the memory of members who have passed away during the previous season. The Board shall determine the amount of each annual donation. For 2014, the amount approved was $150.00.
Adopted May 6, 2014
Election of Officers
Starting in election year 2022, any vote needed is to be conducted electronically through the Club’s membership email system and voting program, which incorporates the Bylaws’ required “identical unnumbered ballots.” The Election Committee consists of the Webmaster, Publicity Chair, and Membership Chair, since these three directors are familiar with the active membership roster and the Club mass email system.
If one or more of these directors is a candidate for office and thus ineligible for the Committee, the President appoints suitable replacements. The Election Committee is responsible for scheduling, publicizing, tabulating, and reporting election results, consistent with the requirements of the Bylaws.
The Bylaws reference for this policy statement is the 2020 Revision, Article V, Section 4.
Adopted February 1, 2022. Replaces former policy on elections dated April 1, 2014
Etiquette
The PDG MGC subscribes wholeheartedly to the principle that “ players are expected to play…by acting with integrity…showing consideration…taking good care of the course.” (Rule 1.2a The Rules of Golf, 2019)
Excessive profanity, club throwing, or other uncivil or offensive behavior has no place on the golf course, runs contrary to the spirit of the game, detracts from the enjoyment, and may be penalized under the same Rule. It shall be the policy of the Club to treat such incidents seriously, and the Board may take appropriate disciplinary action, especially if the breaches of etiquette are repeated.
Adopted Feb.4, 2014
Updated Rule reference Feb. 2, 2019
Wednesday Sweeps
- Men’s Golf Club members have priority for Sweeps tee times in both AM and PM Shotguns.
- Non-members who wish to play, but not in the Sweeps, should check in with the Pro Shop for hole assignment, if available.
- Players may submit ballots for tee times from
Wednesday through Sunday 12 noon. - A random drawing will determine starting holes for up to 144 players in each Sweeps event, with any excess placed on standby. Starting holes are posted by Monday PM. Players selected who cannot play, AS A COURTESY TO OTHERS, please call to cancel ASAP at (760) 341-5877.
ATTENTION ATTENTION ATTENTION
Current entry fee (since April 2014) is $5.00. Of this amount,
during the regular season $4.00 is designated for payouts, and $1.00 is held by the Club’s general fund for member expenses such as the Welcome Back event. From May 1 to Opening Day, the full $5.00 is used for payouts.
Adopted March 4, 2014
Revised and Approved Jan. 3, 2017; Feb. 7, 2017; Nov. 6, 2018; Jan. 8, 2019; Nov. 5, 2019, Mar. 2, 2021
Code of Conduct
Introduction
The purpose of this Code is to assist members and guests of the Palm Desert Greens Men’s Golf Club (PDGMGC) to understand the standards of behavior expected of all. The Code sets out a disciplinary process and outlines to all members, guests and the PDG community how to make a complaint and how the process works.
The Code
All members of PDGMGC are expected to practice the basic values of sportsmanship, integrity, courtesy and respect toward fellow members, guests, staff, and the PDG community. PDGMGC honors these values and considers any behavior that violates them to be unacceptable. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to:
- Bad temper, club throwing, foul or abusive language
- Failure to adhere to the rules and etiquette of the game of golf
- Unsportsmanlike conduct and unnecessary gamesmanship
- Physical violence or threatening behavior
- Damage to the golf course or facilities
- Disregard, especially after a reminder, of PDG Regulations concerning dress, power carts, and the use and care of the golf course
Anyone engaging in these or any other detrimental behavior is in breach of the Code and should be reported to the Club Professional or to the PDGMGC President. It is in everyone’s best interest that such behavior is reported, and all members have that duty. Guests and other residents of PDG are encouraged to do so as well.
Disciplinary Committee
A Disciplinary Committee will oversee a complaints procedure, conduct inquiries, hold hearings, and impose penalties as necessary. The Committee will be made up of the PDGMGC President, Vice President, Rules Chairman, and PDG Club Professional, and will be responsible for implementing this procedure in a fair and impartial manner. The President will convene all parties and, while retaining general responsibility for the procedures of this Code, may designate a representative to perform any of his duties specified in it.
Complaints Procedure
A complaint may be made by any member, guest, staff, or member of the PDG community, directly to the Club Professional or to the President. Complaints should be made as soon as possible, but no later than two (2) days after the incident. Verbal complaints must be followed up in writing without delay, and forms to do so (Appendix 4) are available in the Golf Information Room. Once a complaint notice has been received, the Club Professional and the President will consider the offense and grade it according to Appendix 1. Extremely serious offenses may be referred directly to the Disciplinary Committee without a grade. The grades range from I (least serious) to III (most serious), and determine the action to be taken and potential penalty. Thus, consistency across offenses is essential, as is documentation to support the process. The President will ensure that records of all offenses are maintained and filed with the PDGMGC Secretary.
After a grade has been determined, the President, with reference to Appendix 2, will take the following actions:
A. For Grade I, of a minor nature, the President will discuss the matter with the subject and either dismiss the complaint or follow Step 1 (verbal warning) and the matter will be closed. For a second Grade I offense, the President will again discuss the matter with the subject and follow Step 2 (written warning.)
B. For Grade II or III, the President will carry out a preliminary inquiry and gather all the facts of the complaint reasonably available within seven (7) days from receipt of the complaint notice. The President will keep all parties informed about the process, which may include a discussion with and written report from the subject.
Disciplinary Committee Functions
The Committee will meet as required to perform the following:
- Review complaint notices regarding Grade I offenses and ensure consistent application;
- Consider all Grade II and III complaints;
- Where necessary, conduct inquiries or hold a hearing on a complaint. Written notice of any hearing will be given to the subject of a complaint and to those bringing it. The notice of hearing will specify time and place, the person(s) filing the complaint, and will be accompanied by all relevant material. Hearings will be private and in person, with only the subject of a complaint and the Committee present. The Committee may receive legal advice it deems necessary. Any participant in a hearing will disclose any potential conflict of interest.
Decisions and Penalties
Whether a complaint is upheld or dismissed, the Committee will give its decision in writing, within in five (5) days, with reasons for the decision and any penalty imposed. The subject of a complaint may appeal a penalty of expulsion under the terms of the PDGMGC ByLaws detailed in Appendix 3. The Committee will deal severely with proven cases of serious misconduct. If the conduct is an infraction against the Palm Desert Greens Country Club Rules and Regulations, the matter should be referred to the Board of Directors of the Association. If it constitutes a criminal offense, the matter should be referred to law enforcement.
Appendix 1: Examples of conduct likely to be penalized
Grade I Offenses:
Profanity
Abuse of equipment, including club throwing
Minor damage to golf course or amenities; e.g. trees, greens, sand boxes
Ill-mannered behavior
Failure to complete a round in competition, except for illness or emergency
PDG dress code, power cart, or golf course use violations
Grade II Offenses:
Behavior damaging to the reputation of PDGMGC
Theft of minor items; e.g. practice balls, snacks
Excessive or offensive profanity
Verbal abuse, threatening, or menacing
Breaking clubs intentionally
Major damage to golf course or amenities
Repeated dress code, power cart, or golf course use violations
Grade III Offenses:
Serious misuse of alcohol or drugs on golf course or club premises
Theft of valuable items; e.g. golf clubs, cash
Assault or bodily harm
Sexual or verbal harassment
Willful disregard of directions from PDG staff regarding safety issues
Appendix 2: Actions of the Disciplinary Committee
Grade I Offense – one of the following steps will be taken:
- Verbal warning with complaint notice on file
- Written warning
Grade II and Grade III Offenses – one of the following steps will be taken:
No previous offense/ less serious current offense
- Written warning
- Suspension
- Expulsion
For an offense considered more serious, or if there is recent previous history, an offense otherwise considered Grade II may be treated as Grade III. Step 1 will be taken only if the offense is less serious; otherwise a penalty of suspension is likely to be imposed.
Additional considerations for the actions of the Committee:
- For all suspensions, the Committee will determine the period case by case.
- Previous offenses will not be considered after a twelve (12) month period from the date of the last penalty.
- Expulsion generally will be considered permanent, but an expelled member may apply for reinstatement after twelve (12) months. Said member would be expected to offer evidence of good faith and a valid reason to be considered for reinstatement. The Committee will determine the merits of any such application and their decision will be final.
Appendix 3: PDGMGC ByLaws Article 3, Section 3 (Termination)
“The Board of Directors shall have the power to reject an applicant’s request for membership or terminate the membership of a current member on the basis of character or unacceptable conduct. Any applicant or member thus terminated has the right to appeal his termination directly to the members at a membership meeting. After stating the appeal, the person shall leave the meeting and a vote will be taken and the decision of the majority of those present being binding.”
Appendix 4: PDG Men’s Golf CONDUCT REPORT
Use this form to report conduct in violation of the Code posted in Golf Info Room and on website pdgmgc.com. Please identify yourself; reports from anonymous sources cannot be considered. Submit to MGC President or Head Professional. Disciplinary Committee will review and follow procedures outlined in the Code. Thank you!
Your name_____________________________ Phone__________________
Email ________________________________
Date of incident____________Time__________Place__________________
Person(s) in violation__________________________Cart Plate__________
Witness(es)_______________________________Phone(s)______________
Describe incident in detail:
Your signatureToday’s date
Adopted Mar. 5, 2019
Holes-in-One
The PDG Men’s Golf Club rewards a member’s Hole-in-One with either a bag tag or a trophy AND a share of the accumulated Cash Pool, which is funded with $5 from each member’s dues. The payout season runs from opening day in November to the closing date for overseeding in October. If the Handicap Committee determines that pre-overseed course conditions prevent posting scores, the payout season ends on that date. If there are multiple Holes-in-One during the payout season, the pool is split equally.
To be eligible for the awards, the member’s dues must be paid in full. The Hole-in-One must occur during the play of at least 18 holes at PDGCC, and must be witnessed and attested by at least one fellow player, who may be either a PDG resident or a fee-paying guest of the member. The scorecard must be submitted to the Pro Shop staff as soon as possible, with a copy to the Hole-in-One Chairman.
Adopted March 4, 2014
Revised and Approved Feb. 7, 2017, Nov. 30, 2021
Member Issues
The By-Laws of the PDG Men’s Golf Club require and empower two elected Members-at-Large “to serve as the membership representatives convey suggestions and comments to the Board.”(Art.IV, Sec.5,6)*. Thus, any concern, question, or suggestion from a member should be addressed to a Member-at-Large for the Board’s consideration.
It shall be the policy of the PDG MGC to address members’ issues primarily through the good services of the Members-at-Large whenever possible, but any Board Member may present a member issue for Board consideration. In addition, the Board may invite anyone to attend a Board Meeting, to act in an advisory capacity, to present an issue directly, or for any other purpose related to Board business.
Further, any member who wishes to attend a Board Meeting for a specific purpose may do so, provided he gives written notice to the President at least two days in advance. In this regard, email also shall be deemed written notice.
Adopted Feb. 4, 2014
*Language updated to be consistent with 2020 revised ByLaws.
Oct.5, 2021
Social Events
The PDG MGC By-Laws provide an avenue, through the Members-at-Large, to stage social events, other than those traditionally accompanying tournaments. Events such as “Welcome Back,”, “Farewell”, and “Election” have proved to be of minimal value to the Club overall, given the disproportionate number of attendees compared to the total expense.
Accordingly, it shall be the policy of the Club to consider such events only when presented to the Board with a description of how costs will be shared between the Club and the attendees. Club funds are budgeted annually, and should not be expected for “spur of the moment” events. However, if an event is planned in advance and approved for an upcoming Club budget, it may be recognized as a line item for the planned expense.
Adopted Feb. 4, 2014
Spending Limit
The PDG Men’s Golf Club Board makes every effort to spend each member dollar wisely and for the good of the Club as a whole. Proposed expenditures in excess of $500 for any single item will be brought to the membership for approval at the monthly general meetings.
Adopted Feb. 4, 2014
Tournaments
The Club Champion shall be determined by a 54-hole, stroke play tournament, which may provide for multiple flights. Championship Flight may be played at scratch.
The President’s Cup Winner shall be determined by an 18-hole handicap tournament, with multiple flights, at the Tournament Chairman’s discretion. Both gross and net prizes may be awarded.
REFUNDS OF TOURNAMENT FEES
The Tournament Chairman, with Board approval, shall decide whether to return any portion of a member’s entry fee, for emergency cancellation requests.
ALTERNATE TEES
The Tournament Chairman shall have discretion on whether and how to allow tournament players to compete from alternate tee boxes, such as “Course 3” and “Red-Gold Combo.”
FORMER GOLF PROFESSIONALS
Members who previously held positions as golf teachers or who played for prize money will be allowed to play in Club events if they have a current sanctioned handicap index. The Tournament Chairman may create a “Pro Flight” if necessary.
Adopted Feb. 4, 2014
Revised and Approved Jan. 3, 2017; Feb. 7, 2017
Tournament Eligibility
ENTRY FEES: All entry fees will be paid by check only and no later than the tournament deadline as set by the Tournament Committee. Late entries will not be accepted other than to replace last minute cancellations. For the Presidents’ Cup Tournament (PCT), the entry fees for the current and past Presidents will be waived and are to be budgeted and paid as an expense of the PCT itself.
Adopted April 1, 2014 Latest revision Dec. 6, 2022
Event Sponsorship
MGC members also participate in other competitive events such as the Can-Am Matches, the Interclub Match Play series, and various off-site outings. These are organized and operated by individuals who determine eligibility, format, and related issues, and who also maintain complete private control over entry fees, payouts, and expenses. No MGC funds are involved, and the financial transactions do not appear on the MGC accounts.
Because these other events contribute significantly to the positive golf experience enjoyed by the entire PDG community, the MGC gladly extends to them the use of its communication infrastructure, including email information and website services. This courtesy incurs no extra expense to MGC members, does not imply sponsorship, and should not be construed as financial endorsement.
Adopted April 2, 2019
Associate Member Status for Member-Guest Tournaments
Board of Directors Reaction: The Board is authorized to “settle questions of ByLaws interpretations” (Art. IV, Sec.5.) At the Nov. 2, 2021 regular meeting the Board discussed at length the clause restricting Associate play. It concluded that the original intent was to preserve the “senior character” of the fields in major events. Further, the Board noted that the Member-Guest event has had a long history of guests under the age of 55, and that, because of the format, an Associate competing as a guest would in no way compromise the character cited above.
Interpretation: The Board interprets the clause as a prohibition against an Associate competing as a member in the major tournaments, including the Member-Guest, but it does not prohibit an Associate from competing as a guest.
Recommendation: Future ByLaws revisions should clarify the language of the clause to reflect this interpretation. In addition, there is the possibility of a Full Member wishing to play as the guest of another Full Member. This Board recommends that this arrangement not be allowed. One of the primary purposes of the Member-Guest event is to introduce others to our club, and all Full Members have the opportunity to compete as partners in the annual Member-Member tournament.
Adopted Nov. 30, 2021
Communications
The Board of Directors shares information directly with the Membership primarily through the club’s website pdgmgc.com. Each director provides pertinent information on a regular basis to the Webmaster who posts under News then archives as needed.
Members are alerted about meeting dates, upcoming tournaments, frost delays and the like by brief email blasts and Golf Info Room notices. Detailed content or background material is communicated by website postings.
Adopted February 7, 2023
Elected Officers
John McClain
President
Greg Quaid
Vice President
John Tierney
Secretary
Clark Sharar
Treasurer
Steve Warren
Club Liaison
Bob Barrie
Member at Large USA
Bill Brown
Member at Large Canada