I hate to see the hits that golf is taking from the economy.  Unfortunately, major sponsors have failed financially and golf like any component must be weighed on its contribution to the profit ledger.  What were the executives thinking when they took government funds to save their companies (paid huge bonuses) and then spent   lavishly at the golf tournaments for non golf related entertainment.  The sponsors showed poor judgement and I can not blame  elected officials for  pointing out the misuse of government funds.   However, golf took the hit .  Company executives must think they are professional athletes that command multi-million dollar salaries.   I can't afford to  pay Manny Ramirez !!  So when, ticket prices or the product prices are no longer affordable by the "average " person---executives take the money and run(or RUN to Uncle Sam) .   One article I read attempted to justify the sponsors of a golf  tournament by pointing out their  charity contributions of over 50 million while glossing over the billions the sponsor received in bailout money.   Charity should not sink a corporation.   Maybe it's time  to look at  tournament Prize funds and ticket prices before it's to late.  How much was that ticket to the Masters?