PGA National Resort & Spa

PGA National Resort & Spa is more than just a golfer's paradise. It's a stunning retreat ideal for business travelers and meeting planners. Fresh from a $65 million revitalization, which includes 39,000 square-feet of expanded meeting space, two beautiful new social ballrooms, and stunning outdoor pavilion, the newly reinvented resort provides a wide range of room types and configurations that host groups from 12 to 1,200. Returning guests and new visitors are sure to be impressed by the phenomenal staff and luxurious facilities that make PGA National Resort & Spa the number one destination for meetings and conferences of any size.

Facility highlights include:
Spaces designed specifically to host conferences, conventions, banquets, retreats and corporate events, weddings and receptions.

Twenty-three flexible meeting rooms featuring new furnishings and dcor that can be custom configured using soundproof air walls, zone lighting and sound, light sensors and electronic reader boards.

The Honda Pavilion: An open-air venue overlooking the Master's Practice Green, The Champion course, a 26-acre lake and the new resort pool offers an inspiring fresh-air option for meals or social gatherings.

PGA Grand Ballroom: A 10,000 square foot, chandelier decorated elegant ballroom.

Congressional Amphitheater: A 2,000 square-foot theater-style meeting room featuring desk seating, ergonomic chairs, built-in presentation platform and individual, built-in table lights.

Bella Lago and Vista Ballrooms: Brand new additions to the resort, both ballrooms embody the renewed, classic yet contemporary personality of PGA National Resort & Spa.

The Masters Ballroom: Located in close proximity to the Pro Shop and Master's Practice Green, The Masters Ballroom offers the perfect location for team building meetings, tournament banquets and celebrations.

The Board Room: A handsome wood-paneled room, overlooking a courtyard and offering both privacy and natural light.

All meeting & event spaces include newly updated:
Built-in screens
Bose sound
Wall coverings & furnishings
Window treatments
Carpet & floor covering
New artwork
Zone lighting
Tasteful lighting
New HVAC

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PGA National Resort & Spa's $65 million luxurious reinvention firmly solidifies its place as the premier resort, golf and meeting destination. The contemporary 379-room resort not only holds a distinguished 28-year legacy of professional tournament play including the Ryder Cup and PGA Championship, but also offers guests an outstanding array of luxurious amenities such as the soothing spa, expansive health & racquet club as well an outstanding array of gourmet dining experiences. The AAA 4-Diamond resort allows you to walk in the footsteps of golf's greats but still have ample time for the many indulgences that complete an exceptional resort experience.

Golf Experience:
Tee off on any of the five award winning tournament-ready golf courses, designed by Nicklaus, Palmer, the Fazios, and Karl Litten; each considered among the best layouts and most challenging courses in the sport. Want to challenge yourself like the pros? Play a round on The Champion course-Home of the Honda Classic which features the renowned "Bear Trap"-a series of three demanding holes that are often considered the toughest stretch in golf.

Fitness Experience:
Taking a break from the course, but still itching for some action? The newly reinvented Health & Racquet Club features a 33,000 square foot fitness center with innumerable activities to keep your fitness routine in top condition. With 19 fast-drying clay tennis courts, racquetball and handball courts, five croquet lawns, free weight and cardiovascular exercise rooms, over 50 different classes and professionally certified trainers, PGA National Health & Racquet Club provides all the amenities for the ideal workout experience. For the ultimate cool down, spend time in any of the nine sparkling pools, including the newly remodeled main pool, lap pool and soothing whirlpools.

Spa Experience:
If rest and relaxation are your indulgences of choice, treat yourself to The Spa at PGA National. An expansive 40,000 square-foot European spa featuring 32 treatment rooms and areas, The Spa offers over 100 diverse treatments, the exclusive "Waters of the World" outdoor mineral pools, full-service salon, and relaxing lounge areas.

Dining Experience:
The PGA National Resort & Spa dining experience is something to be savored. With seven onsite restaurants and lounges-from Ironwood Grille's fine steaks and fresh seafood, to the iBAR's drinks and light fare, to the crisp cuisine of the poolside Wave Bar and Grill-there is truly something for everyone's palate.

PGA National Resort & Spa Accolades:
Recognized as a "Silver Award" winner as a Premier Resort in Golf Magazine's 2010 rankings of the Top 100 Resorts in America.

Winner of 2010 & 2009 Golf World Magazine Readers' Choice Awards

Awarded "America's Best Resort Courses" by Golfweek in 2010

Awarded "Best Resort Courses" by Golfweek in 2009

Awarded "Best PGA Tour Courses You Can Play" by Golfweek in 2010

Awarded "Best Courses You can Play" Best in state by Golfweek in 2010

Ranked as one of the "Top Five Hotels in Palm Beach County" by Zagat

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RESORT STAFF, PROFESSIONAL BUILDERS AND DIAZ FAMILY BREAK GROUND ON NEW RESIDENCE

Palm Beach Gardens, FL (April 2009) - PGA National Resort & Spa, working with Habitat for Humanity of Palm Beach County and the Diaz family, recently broke ground on a new Palm Beach residence. PGA National Resort & Spa has committed to donate more than $64,000 through a state-funded program called the Community Contribution Tax Credit Program, designed to assist with affordable housing for those in need. PGA National staff will also contribute 200 volunteer hours to complete home construction.

PGA National, in cooperation with Kirkland Events and GEP South Florida destination management services, will also be engaging in future Habitat for Humanity home build projects through the resort's recently established "Meeting the Need" community service program which gives meeting planners, organizations and corporations meeting at the resort an opportunity to combine community service and corporate social responsibility with training, team building, meetings and incentives.

For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Palm Beach County call 561-433-3351 or visit habitatpbc.org. To learn about PGA National Resort & Spa, visit pgaresort.com

Photo Information: Pictured here at the April 23 Ground Breaking are, from left to right:
Joe Higgins (National Sales Manager), Jane Broderick (Director of Golf Operations), John Sexton (Executive Chef), Lois Romano-Claypoole (Director of Human Resources), Kathy Blazer (General Manager PGA Members Club), Diaz Family, Mark Odom (CFO)

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About PGA National Resort & Spa
Opened in 1981, PGA National Resort &Spa is a stunning South Florida vacation and meeting destination. The legendary 379-room resort recently completed a $65 million transformation including a completely new front entrance, outdoor pool and pavilion, new Ironwood Grille and iBar, as well as enhanced public areas, golf courses and landscaping. PGA National Resort & Spa offers 90 holes of championship golf, including the famed Champion Course, home to the PGA Tour's Honda Classic and past host of the 1983 Ryder Cup, the 1987 PGA Championship and a litany of other prized professional golf tournaments. Other distinguishing features include a 40,000 square foot European Spa with 56 treatments areas and the exclusive "Waters of the World" outdoor mineral pools, a world-class 33,000 square-foot health and racquet club with 19 Har Tru tennis courts, 39,000 square feet of self-contained conference space and seven on-site restaurants and lounges. PGA National is located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. For more information call 800-633-9150 or visit [url]www.pgaresort.com[/url]

Media Contact: Strat-Comm for PGA National Resort & Spa
Debbie Evans [email]devans@stratcogroup.com[/email]

[url]http://www.elitemeetings.com/property/pga-national-resort-and-spa/[/url]

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PGA NATIONAL RESORT & SPA GAINS “TWO PALM” DESIGNATION REDUCING WASTE AND CONSERVING ENERGY


PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL (MARCH, 2009) – PGA National Resort & Spa has been welcomed once again into the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Green Lodging program. The Green Lodging Program was established in 2004 with the intent of recognizing and rewarding environmentally conscientious lodging facilities in the state. So far, PGA National Resort & Spa is one of only two resorts in Palm Beach County and one of only fourteen resorts in the state to receive a “Two Palm” designation. Receiving “Two Palm” status was not an easy feat considering the legendary location had to show significant improvements over last year, when they were first welcomed into the program in the midst of a resort-wide $65 million transformation.
In addition to meeting the DEP’s Green Lodging requirements, PGA National Resort & Spa has instituted a resort-wide environmental policy, signed into action by property Vice President & Managing Director, Joel Paige. The policy requires that the resort’s facilities and properties will be managed in an environmentally responsible manner and that it will participate, as appropriate, in community, industry and/or government sponsored groups addressing issues affecting the communities it serves. An assigned Safety Committee and PGA National’s own “Green Team” monitor the resort’s efforts and ensure that all departments are complying with, and exceeding, resort environmental guidelines.
The extensive renovations at PGA National Resort & Spa created a unique opportunity for the historic golf destination to make luxurious upgrades to the property while at the same time, enhancing conservation efforts. Debris from the construction site was recycled, unused furniture and fixtures left from the project were donated to Habitat For Humanity, electronic and technology products were recycled and donated, and high-efficiency air filters were installed.
PGA National Two Palm – page 2 of 2

“On behalf of the entire resort staff, our guests, and our industry partners, we are affirming our commitment to reduce our toll on the environment,” said Joel Paige. “Through the extensive recycling program that has been part of our recent renovations, we’ve been able to reduce waste, recycle debris and make significant donations to local charities. Through mindful operations and careful planning, we hope to make a difference, even in small ways.”
To date, PGA National Resort & Spa has implemented numerous environmental carbon conserving practices including: use of electronic communication vehicles; linen reuse programs; installation of low-flow aerators, sensor water faucets, low-flow toilets,
compact fluorescent light bulbs and computerized air conditioning management; use of
environmentally friendly cleaning and pest-control products; and extensive recycling. In addition, they developed and implemented performance improvement goals, and evaluated their progress throughout the previous year. “We are proud to recognize PGA National Resort & Spa as a Two Palm member of Florida’s Green Lodging Program,” said Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Director of Sustainable Initiatives, Deas Bohn. “This designation proves the facility’s commitment to protecting Florida’s natural resources for future generations and to being an industry leader in environmental stewardship.”
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MEDIA CONTACT: Debbie Evans [email]devans@stratcogroup.com[/email] or 410-877-9056

PGA National Resort & Spa has a distinguished history of legendary golf. The thundering galleries of grand tournaments past, including the 1983 Ryder Cup, the 1987 PGA Championship, nearly two decades of the PGA Seniors’ Tournament, and now the PGA Tour’s annual Honda Classic, echo throughout the 2,340 acre resort. Nicklaus, Palmer, Fazio and Litten are just some of the greats who’ve helped make this resort one of the most prestigious golf destinations in the United States. And PGA National’s story only begins with great history. Since acquiring the property in 2006, new owners have launched a stunning rebirth of the resort. Committed to “creating championship experiences” and making PGA National the best golf destination in Florida, management embarked on more than $65 million in resort improvements and created partnerships with the leading names in golf. Among some of the changes are a new PGA National Golf Academy featuring the Dave Pelz Scoring Game School, David Leadbetter Golf Academy, Hot Stix Golf Performance Center and a complete renovation of The Palmer course by the Palmer Design Group as well as two updates of the famed Champion course. World-class accommodations, an extensive Health & Racquet club offering sport specific training, award-winning Spa, fine dining at the new Ironwood Grille and warm service surround PGA National’s golf superiority with an entire destination unmatched in the resort industry.
With five championship courses to test golfer’s skill and stamina, PGA National truly is a golfer’s heaven. The crowning highlight may be the new PGA National Golf Academy, a first-of-its-kind golf instruction program featuring Hot Stix Golf for custom club fitting. Both Dave Pelz and David Leadbetter, two of the world’s foremost names in improving the game of professionals and amateurs alike, have opened schools on the grounds of PGA National. This Palm Beach Gardens resort is the first location in the world to host both of these elite instructional programs.
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Dave Pelz, the world’s foremost authority on the short game and putting, has been relied upon by top playing professionals including Phil Mickelson, Vijay Singh and Mike Weir. Known as the “Father of the Modern Golf Swing,” David Leadbetter has taught some of the greatest players in the world including Ernie Els (2008 Honda Classic champion), Nick Price, Trevor Immelman and Greg Norman. Both top coaches employ an elite team of instructors who have completed the teaching legends’ rigorous training and certification programs.
One, two and three day programs are offered by both the Dave Pelz Scoring Game School and David Leadbetter Golf Academy. Golf instruction programs are available to individuals, groups and corporations, accommodating both resort guests and non-guests.
Opening the PGA National Golf Academy in January 2009 was a milestone event for all involved. “It’s great to be at the other end of the range from Leadbetter,” said Pelz, explaining that the two have been discussing opening golf instruction programs on the same campus for ten years. “This facility has all the components of a premier golf destination,” added Leadbetter. “And it’s great to be here with Pelz.”
Also new to the resort is Hot Stix Golf, the golf industry’s leading independent custom club fitting and equipment re-design program. The new Hot Stix facility at PGA National combines cutting-edge, custom-fitting technology with its first-class facilities, making the resort one of the leading providers of advanced fitting services in Florida. The Hot Stix Golf Performance Center and an extensive golf pro shop, complete with a world-class golf simulator add to the comprehensive golf experience.

TWO NEW BALLROOMS, NEW 5,000 SQUARE FOOT OUTDOOR PAVILION AND 39,000 SQUARE FEET OF COMPLETELY UPDATED SPACE

Palm Beach Gardens, FL (January 2009) " The new owners of PGA National Resort & Spa embarked on a multi-million renovation of the legendary resort with the goal of taking a classic golf, leisure and meeting destination and making it current; giving the renowned location a complete Palm Beach style facelift. The expansive, resort-wide project began with a stunning transformation of the hotels public spaces including a contemporary new lobby and lush, freeform resort pool. An all-new restaurant and lobby bar now offer guests and locals a refreshing location to relax, dine and connect with friends.

Phase two of the program, was highlighted by a stunning covered outdoor pavilion overlooking the new pool and championship golf courses. At 5,000 square feet, the Honda Pavilion is perfect for both receptions and sit-down dinners. Two new social ballrooms, also featuring fantastic views and natural light, provide two very welcoming spaces for celebrations and galas. In addition, all of the resorts 23 meeting rooms " located in the propertys self-contained meeting wing " have been completely renovated including all new furnishings, floor coverings, wall treatments and lighting.

Rich colors and fabrics, a modern atmosphere and state-of-the-art meeting planning services complement the 381 room resort that offers contemporary convenience with boutique style service. Dedicated event planners, on-site transportation, wireless internet and ergonomic seating make meetings " large or small " a balmy breeze.

Meetings Made Easy are Par for the Course at PGA National Resort & Spa Property Highlights:
Newly renovated resort offers luxury accommodations, lush rolling fairways, an award-winning spa, culinary delights, nine swimming pools and unparalleled service
Just minutes from designer and trendy shopping, cultural attractions, beach and water sports, live entertainment, natural and estuary attractions, special events
20 minutes from Palm Beach International Airport
381 luxury guest rooms
5 tournament quality golf courses
7 onsite dining and refreshment options
40,000 square-foot award-winning European Spa
9 swimming pools
35,000 square-foot Health & Racquet Club (larger than most neighborhood health clubs)
19 tennis courts
Scenic 26-acre lake
Croquet lawns
Property-wide wireless internet access

Conference Facilities:
39,000 square-feet of meeting space
Self-contained conference wing
23 individual meeting rooms
Three ballrooms offering seating for 140 to 850 guests including the new Bella Lago and Bella Vista social ballrooms
Executive board room
56-seat theater
New 5,000 square foot outdoor Honda Pavilion (seats up to 350 guests)
Numerous outdoor venues
Full service Business Center
Dedicated loading areas
On-site transportation department

Just for Groups:
Professional golf tournament staff, experienced Spa group event coordinators, dedicated in-house meeting planners and our on-site transportation office deliver unparalleled service for groups " large or small
Creative and intuitive special event managers conceive and deliver one-of-a-kind events utilizing the resorts extensive indoor square footage, expansive outdoor acreage, and diverse venues

MEDIA CONTACT: Debbie Evans devans@stratcogroup.com
Neil Stratford nstratford@stratcogroup.com

Palm Beach Gardens, FL (Summer 2008) - PGA National Resort & Spa has long been renowned as one of South Floridas most legendary golf destinations, but now under new ownership and new management, golf is just one outstanding facet of this amazing Palm Beach vacation destination.

In addition to being the new home of the Honda Classic, the resort is celebrating the completion a $40 million facelift including extensive renovations to the resorts public spaces, a new lobby and restaurant, lush new resort pool, and a complete renovation of The Palmer course by the Palmer Design Group plus an update of the famed Champion course. Phase two, a $25 million project, is now underway with further renovations to the propertys meeting and dining facilities.

Weve taken a classic and made it current, says James Gelfand, VP of Sales & Marketing. We have now hosted year two of a PGA Tournament, The Honda Classic, and we feel weve launched a new resort, in form and philosophy. Its an exciting time for area residents, resort guests, golfers and our team.

Past visitors to the resort may be taken aback by all the changes. The new entrance lobby is beautifully detailed with marble flooring, warm decor, and floor to ceiling windows with a spectacular view. Looking through to a completely re-designed free form pool; lush with landscaping, water features, a dedicated kids zone pool area, and re-developed WAVE poolside bar and grill; guests at PGA National Resort & Spa will feel they have begun their escape from the moment they arrive. Adjoined to the lobby and reception area is the new contemporary iBar "with a fresh atmosphere suited to incite a celebration in those who gather there. Light fare and signature PGA libations plus more than 25 wines by the glass add to the perfect location to relax, reconnect or toast a perfect day.

The new Ironwood Grille is making a splash throughout the region with the debut of celebrated chef Ken Baker, whose philosophy is to allow only the freshest ingredients to be the star of the show. From certified Angus beef to succulent seafood and organic ingredients from local purveyors, Chef Baker takes an unexpected approach to some of
the worlds most classic recipes. Signature items include Baked Artichokes stuffed with spinach, sausage and parmesan; Lobster Chopstix; Chicken BLT Spring Rolls and Ironwood Duckaroni & Cheese (an adult gourmet version of mac and cheese featuring wild mushrooms, gourmet duck meat and a rich sauce).

A new addition to the lakefront pool area is a stunning 5,000 square foot outdoor pavilion with a panoramic view of the resorts 26-acre lake and three of its five golf courses, including the famed Champion course. This area is perfect for parties, weddings, receptions and outdoor events.

On the links, PGA Nationals signature Palmer course, named in honor of its designer Arnold Palmer, also received extensive renovations. The Palmer has a new irrigation system, several re-shaped holes, new tee locations and bunkers, and enhanced landscaping featuring native and water conserving plants. The scope of the golf courses
renovations was led by the Arnold Palmer Design Company. The renovation of the Palmer was followed by completion of an update of the Champion course, which received its second renovation in two years. The Champ course hosts the PGA TOURs Honda Classic each spring.

PGA National Resort & Spa also took this tremendous facelift as an opportunity to invest in a more eco-friendly environment without compromising luxury. The resort was one of the first in Palm Beach County to be welcomed into the Florida Department of Environmental Protections (DEP) Green Lodging program. In addition to meeting the DEPs Green Lodging requirements, PGA National Resort & Spa has instituted a resortwide environmental policy, signed into action in 2007 by property managing director, Joel Paige.

To date, PGA National Resort & Spa has implemented numerous environmental carbon conserving practices including: use of electronic communication vehicles; linen reuse programs; installation of low-flow aerators, sensor water faucets, low-flow toilets, compact fluorescent light bulbs and computerized air conditioning management; use of Green Seal certified cleaning products; and extensive recycling. Debris from the construction site was re-cycled, unused furniture and fixtures left from the project were donated to Habitat for Humanity Re-Store, electronic and technology products have all been recycled or donated, and high-efficiency air filters were installed.

PGA National Resort & Spa truly is a new experience, says Gelfand. The worlds best golf is joined by an amazing array of leisure, fitness and relaxation opportunities for the entire family. And the improvements have only just begun.

About PGA National Resort and Spa: Opened in 1981, PGA National Resort and Spa is a stunning South Florida vacation and meeting destination. The legendary 339-room resort offers 90 holes of championship golf, including the famed Champion Course, new home to the PGA Tours Honda Classic and past host of the 1983 Ryder Cup, the1987 PGA Championship and a litany of other prized professional golf tournaments. Other distinguishing features include a 42,000 square foot European Spa with 56 treatments areas and the exclusive Waters of the World outdoor mineral pools, a world-class health and racquet club, 39,000 square feet of self-contained conference space and seven on-site restaurants and lounges. PGA National Resort is located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

Media Contact:
Strat-Comm for PGA National Resort & Spa 410-877-9056
Neil Stratford nstratford@stratcogroup.com or Debbie Evans devans@stratcogroup.com