Hello members,
 Opening season in CT for posting scores April 1st is just around the corner. That being said, some that have not been on the Stracka site for a while will notice there have been some changes. Biggest being you now have to have at least a “Silver” level membership on the Stracka site at a fee of $14.95 a year  to have an official USGA Handicap and enjoy all features on the site.
Myself and the Handicap committee then had to determine if we were then going to continue to use Stracka as the tool to manage our club or use the USGA sites. After consideration we have decided to continue to use Stracka.com. We feel it is the best option for managing our club.
For these reasons:
1)      We are familiar with the site and like the tracking for club purposes and personal stats.
2)      Stracka is 100% compliant with the USGA Handicap System. They work directly with the USGA to ensure your handicap is compliant with all aspects of USGA current regulations.
3)      The State Golf Associations are non-profit. Ours is the CSGA. They set up all state tourney’s, physically determine and maintain slopes and ratings of all courses etc. There is a cost involved in this and a good portion of your membership fee to Stracka goes to these associations. They are the biggest reason Stracka was forced to start charging.
 
There is also a lot involved for Stracka to stay compliant and the system doesn’t operate itself. Servers, databases, technology and staff involve cost. The advertising on the site doesn’t cut it anymore with over 100 clubs using the site.
So what does this mean for CT Hackers members? There are a few things I need you to do ASAP if you would like to still be a member in our club.
1)      You need to be at least a “silver” level member on the Stracka site. To do this go to your profile and click on “account settings”. Then under “Payments and Transactions” upgrade your membership.
2)      Please make sure under your profile your address is correct with CORRECT Zip Code.
3)      Make sure in your profile your first and last name is correct. No more nicknames!!!!
These tasks need to be completed by April 30th. If not you will receive a reminder from me and if still not complied with by May 15th you will be removed from the club.
That’s it…..looking forward to a great season in 2010.
Look for messages soon on club events for the season.
Thanks,   Anthony Mascola (Scola) CT Hackers Club Chairman
Don Hutson – VP Handicap Committee