Did you know that the people who are fortunate enough to score tickets to the Masters Tournament each year are not called “fans” or even “spectators?” They are referred to as “patrons.” Part of the intrigue surrounding the famous golf classic has to do with the unique rules that are imposed on the event’s patrons — rules that are not duplicated anywhere else in the golf world.

For instance, there is absolutely no running allowed on the course in Augusta — on Thursday, when the gates open, a spontaneous speed-walking race takes place as patrons place their folding chairs in their favorite spot on the course. Those chairs, by the way are not allowed to have arms — and there is a steep penalty for moving another patron’s unattended chair from its spot.

No cell phones are allowed on the course. While photos are encouraged during the practice rounds, no cameras are allowed on tournament days. It’s also super important to use the Augusta-approved terminology such as the “second nine” (instead of the common “back nine”) and “second cut” instead of “rough.” To make the most of the Masters experience, one should take great care to look the part, act the part, and speak the part!

THE Chamber Mini Masters and April Sunset Business Mixer, slated for this Wednesday, April 28, from 4 – 7 p.m. at Tre Sorelle Dolce Ice Cream & Mini Golf, will have its own set of 5 patron rules! Here they are: 1. Cheer loudly for the teams (no “golf clapping” allowed here), 2. Connect and Reconnect with business colleagues, 3. Collect qualified leads, 4. Enjoy the refreshments (including the food trucks and the ice cream parlor), and the most important rule, 5. Have Fun!

THE Chamber Mini Masters is a putt-putt version of the famous golf classic, in which teams of four will compete on Tre Sorelle’s 18-hole mini golf course. Our teams will be uniquely named and will be sporting one-of-a-kind apparel (some of which has been especially designed for this occasion) to enhance the fun! Prizes will be awarded in several categories and the overall tournament winner will receive the coveted Chamber BLUE jacket — and, of course —bragging rights!

All 18 teams will tee off and make their way around the miniature golf course. Some may reserve the services of their team’s own caddie. The golfers may try their hand at skipping the golf ball on one of the water features. There will, of course, be adoring fans lining the course and rooting for their favorite team. This event will, in every way, be our own version of the famous Masters Tournament — in miniature.

This event promises networking opportunities, a chance to gain qualified leads, friendly competition, and fun — not to mention a great employee morale booster! Food and beverages will be available. There will be no need for Augusta pimento cheese sandwiches — but instead, be on the lookout for the CDCC signature “Mini Masters Crabby Caddie” and other fun surprises!

The CDCC would like to extend its thanks to our teams and our generous event sponsors: Hole Sponsors: Aflac Sack Health Benefit Advisors LLC, Chesapeake Utilities Corp., Delaware Brain & Spine, Delaware Electric Co-op, Dover Downs Hotel & Casino, Dover Federal Credit Union, Harrington Realty Inc., Lakeview Realty, Merry Maids, Secure Data Computer Solutions, Smith, Cohen, & Rosenberg; Hole-in-One Sponsor: i.g. Burton & Co. Inc.; Awards Sponsor: Faw Casson; Snack Sponsor: Humana; Jacket Sponsor: My Roots; Beverage Cooler Sponsor: Pike Creek Mortgage Services; our Food Trucks & Beverages: Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company, Shay’s Seafood & Soul, & Woody’s on Wheels.

This Masters in miniature experience will serve as the spring fundraiser for the Chamber. All proceeds from the evening’s activity will benefit the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce and will be spent supporting and sustaining the many programs that help you and your businesses thrive here in Kent County.

For more information about the Chamber Mini Masters or to register, please call the CDCC Office at 302-734-7513 or visit us at www.cdcc.net. We look forward to teeing up our wonderful NEW EVENT, THE Chamber Mini Masters, at our April Sunset Business Mixer!

Upcoming events

•Tuesday, May 11: Young Professionals’ Social at Jonathan’s Landing and via Zoom, noon-1 p.m.

•Wednesday, May 12: Coffee Coaching Come Back Series in the CDCC Board Room and via Zoom, 8 – 9 am.

•Thursday, May 13: Member Orientation in the CDCC Board Room and via Zoom, beginning at 8:30 a.m.