It has been many years since “Rub of the Green” began its run as a hopefully informational weekly golf column in The Citizen. So many years that I really don't remember the exact number. So here we are again as another summer rolls around.

If you have not already heard, May is “Free Lesson Month” and is sponsored on a yearly basis by the PGA Of America. If you need a little help with your game, put a call in to a participating PGA Pro and book yourself a free 10-minute lesson. As the name indicates, there is no charge and I am sure any Pro you choose would spend a little more than 10 minutes to help you out with your game. You can go to www.PGA.com to find a list of the area Pros who are involved in the program.

While you are at PGA.com, follow the links to the Play Golf America Web site. Play Golf America is a PGA initiative to get more new golfers involved, and to encourage these new golfers to stay with the game once they take the plunge. You can find out what programs are offered by any course in your area just by visiting this site.

The Internet is a great way to find and distribute information. At one point in the history of this column, we asked anyone who took the time wander over here to send any or all information they might have as far as interesting golf stories or anything conerning golf they would like to share. The offer still stands. Send any scintillating tidbits or stories you may have to lombo@pga.com. Local golfing lore would be great. Our local golf past is full of many memorable and legendary characters whose place in our game can still be remembered. Dig in to your memory banks and send something over.

This winter while I was standing in line at the Hibernians to order a fish dinner, I looked over my left shoulder and saw Al Impaglia standing next to me. Al made the walk over from his residence and was waiting for his take out. He looked absolutely fantasic and I cannot tell you how good it was to see him again. Al, who is over 90 years of age, has been absent from the game due to some physical problems, but assured me he was going to give it a try once again. If you know him, you have to believe.

One of the great things about the modern game is the technololgy and the accompanying innovation. I never get tired of learning and trying new things as far as playing and teaching. There are countless innovations in golf club technology and innovations in the things that manufacturers do with a golf ball. All are supposed to improve your game. As a matter of fact, this is probably the first era in the history of golf when you can actually buy a little help with your golf game. Modern golf equipment does make a difference in the way you play. I use the words “a little help” because as a teacher of the golf swing and of the game, and as a player who competes on a professional level, it is evident that you still have to know how to swing the golf club. If you have a chance, demo some new clubs; you may be surprised at how much of a difference they make.

See you on the links!