I'm not buying the economy as the sole reason for cutting eight positions at LPGA headquarters, especially since one of the positions was created by the Brand Lady. Clearing the deck for the next Commissioner...?

“Due to the changes in our tournament business and other effects of the world-wide recession, the LPGA has eliminated the position of deputy commissioner effective December 31, 2009,” Evans said in a statement. “Libba Galloway, a key contributor to the LPGA for nearly a decade, will transition out of the association at the end of the year. We thank Libba for her leadership, commitment and the countless contributions that she has provided us.”

With the tour’s schedule shrinking, revenues are shrinking. The LPGA staged 34 events last year, will stage 27 this year, with tour officials projecting they’ll stage between 23 and 25 next year.

“We are losing members of the LPGA who have provided significant service to the association,” Evans said in a statement. “We thank them and wish them well in their future endeavors.”