MERCER COUNTY PRO GOLFER BOB COLLINS EARNS 2008 PGA PRESIDENTS PLAQUE

- First from the Tri State PGA to be Honored with National Award -

Mercer, Pa.- October, 2008 - Bob Collins, professional golfer and Oak Tree Country Club director in Mercer County, has been selected as the 2008 PGA President’s Plaque recipient for his leadership and dedication to growing the game of golf. He is the first member from the Tri-State PGA to earn the national award and will be honored in January for his outstanding overall performance as a golf professional, his level of service to the Professional Golf Association and his involvement with promoting golf in America.

The President’s Plaque recognizes a PGA Professional for his or her extraordinary and exemplary contributions and achievements in the area of player development. As a member of the Mercer County Conventions and Visitor’s Bureau Board of Directors, Collins co-created the Mercer County Golf Trail which includes golf courses and accommodations in western Pennsylvania and northeast Ohio. Both these areas have been recognized as top 10 places to golf by Golf Digest.

As a group coordinator, Collins was able to expand the Mercer County greens to a “Play-Stay & Shop” theme which is now made up of 15 properties, including the Prime Outlets in Grove City. Collins’ work ultimately increased tourism and aided the economy in Mercer County.

“Bob’s input and expertise is highly valued by our organization,” said Peggy Mazyck, Executive Director of the MCCVB. “We can think of no one more deserving to receive the national honor of the PGA President’s Plaque.”

In addition to Collins’ work with the Mercer County Golf Trails, he is actively involved with the Play Golf America Programs in the Tri-State Section Office where he

encourages fellow professionals to do their share in promoting golf as a growing game. His golf facility, the Oak Tree Country Club in Middlesex Pa., also participates in Play Golf America National Promotions and offers weekly programs such as clinics, couples golf and junior tournaments which are open to club members and public guests.

Collins will be recognized on Thursday, Jan. 29. at the PGA of America Awards during the 56th PGA Merchandise Show at 5 p.m. in the auditorium of the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla.

For more information on golf in Mercer County, log onto www.visitmercercountypa.org.

About Mercer County:
Located in Northwestern Pennsylvania, along the Ohio border, Mercer County is home to name-brand outlets, boutiques and unique specialty stores for shoppers. The area is also known for its more than 25 challenging golf courses of inspired design. Golf Digest ranked Mercer County as one of its top golf destinations. Visitors can dine on mouthwatering cuisine in Mercer County's array of fine restaurants and then stay overnight in a well-appointed hotel, a luxurious bed and breakfast or a cozy country inn. Close to Pittsburgh, Erie, Cleveland and other major markets, Mercer County is easily accessible via I-80 and I-79. The County offers the perfect escape.  For more information, visit www.visitmercercountypa.org