In a December interview, Augusta National Golf Club and Masters Tournament Chairman Billy Payne spoke on key issues, which likely will come up in his 'State of the Masters' speech.

... adding women to the club's membership

We're going to continue our membership deliberations in a private manner, and we're just not going to talk about it.

... new practice facility and patron parking

2010 is the earliest first use of the new practice facility. We're sticking to that date, and I don't think it will be any sooner because there is a staged construction issue.

... Automatic invites for PGA Tour winners

There's a lot of magic to that. The public and the fans really like to see the joy that's associated with a victory when, more important than the prize money, is the fact that the winner knows he'll be able to compete in the Masters. We are getting close, I think, to being able to make a decision when it would be appropriate to invite back the winners.

... Course changes and technology

I think the issue over which we all hope for closure is that the game of golf will have reached a plateau and settle down regarding the distances these guys are hitting it using new equipment, new technology. Because it has and continues to threaten some of the great courses in the world, Augusta included.

... the "Masters ball" remaining an option

We'll do whatever is required to ensure the competitiveness of our golf course. And so while we do not believe the focus is now singularly on the ball, it is not an option that we would rule out unequivocally forever. It's not a burning issue now, I don't think.