Volume 50, No 1 March/April 2016 Yale University Golf Course superintendent Scott Ramsay spreads industry message as Grassroots Ambassador Program matches Golf Course Superintendents Association members with members of Congress Craig Smith, Director, Communications and Media Relations, 800-472-7878, csmith@gcsaa.org Lawrence, Kan. (March 22, 2016) — Most fathers help shape their sons’ interests. But for Scott Ramsay, certified golf course superintendent (CGCS) at Yale University Golf Course in New Haven, Conn., it was his son Bennett’s decision to pursue a political science degree that led the elder Ramsay down a path of political activism. Ramsay is one of 237 Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) members who volunteer as Grassroots Ambassadors for the association. The program matches members of GCSAA with members of Congress to build trusting relationships between them. Ambassadors serve as the “go-to” people for lawmakers and their staffs on golf course management issues. Ramsay has spent more than three decades in the golf course management industry and has overseen operations at Yale since 2003. While he had been actively involved in his local GCSAA chapter, the Connecticut Association of Golf Course Superintendents, it wasn’t until his son picked a college major that his interest in the politics of the industry began. “Bennett went to the University of South Carolina to study political science, and I wasn’t even sure exactly what that would mean for him, so I started learning more about it,” Ramsay said. “I always thought political advocacy was outside of the (superintendents’) cause. I slowly came around that the best way to advance our profession and the industry was through this advocacy component.” Scott Ramsay Ramsay was serving on GCSAA’s government relations committee just as the Grassroots Ambassador program launched in 2014. Through the Grassroots Ambassadors program, he is matched with Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Democrat who has served Connecticut’s 3rd District since 1991. Ramsay works through her staff on concerns facing the industry, such as water restrictions and labor issues. “It’s time that we became a leader in our messaging for the golf industry and have a voice to speak for ourselves about the good work we are doing as stewards of the land,” said Ramsay. Grassroots Ambassadors like Ramsay receive training and resources from GCSAA to assist in their efforts. For the last two years, Ramsay has attended National Golf Day in Washington, D.C., as part of GCSAA’s coalition, meeting with lawmakers to share the positive impact golf courses have on the communities they serve and discussing challenges facing the industry. “It is a tremendous opportunity,” Ramsay said of National Golf Day. “It’s amazing how open Washington, D.C., is. Continued on page 15... In This Issue... President’s Message..............................2 2016 Nor’easter Event Recap................3 Kevin’s Corner....................................4-5 Grasscatcher......................................8-9 Schedule of Events...............................11 March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Page 2 March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Page 3 2016 Nor’easter Event Recap What a difference a year makes…definitely a nice change considering the last few winters we have had. Courses have opened up far earlier than in previous years and stole away some of Shennecossett’s off season revenue (we still made out ok!). Despite losing our corner on the golfing market, it’s great that everyone was able to get an early jump on getting their courses cleaned up and ready for the upcoming season. Putting out seedhead suppression sprays and thinking about annual bluegrass weevils could have waited a little longer! Eric Morrison, CGCS March 31, 2015 – Opened the back 9 at Shennecossett for the first time since we closed in January due to snow. March 31, 2016 – Closed out a month in which we did over 2000 rounds and the course was open most of the winter. I would like to thank Scott Ramsay, CGCS, Government relations chair, and everyone else who attended meetings or testified in March in regards to the Pollinator Health and Habitat bill that was introduced into the legislature. Fortunately, the end result will not affect golf too much, but as we all know there will always be new bills introduced trying to limit or remove tools that we utilize to maintain healthy turf. I also want to thank the CGSA for providing the funding to retain Michael Dugan from Capitol Consulting as our lobbyist, ensuring that golf has a strong presence in Hartford. Our first golf meeting of the season is right around the corner on April 25 at the Norwich Golf Course. Bruce Morse, the greatest superintendent in the Northeast, has hosted the CAGCS April meeting every other year since he has been Superintendent at the course. Big thanks to Bruce and his staff for welcoming us to their course again to kick off our 2016 season. This meeting will also determine the seeding for the Two Person Team Championship, so if you haven’t signed up yet find a partner and join us there. As always, if you are interested in hosting a meeting or helping out on the board in any capacity, contact a board member or give the office a call. I wish everyone a successful 2016 season and I hope to see you at the April meeting. Eric Morrison, CGCS Connecticut Clippings is an official publication of the Connecticut Association of Golf Course Superintendents Newsletter Editor Heather Garvin Building efficient Programs to help you succeed!! Newsletter Committee Bob Chalifour, CGCS (ret.) Steve Curry, Ron Holcomb, Paul Bednarczyk The Clippings is open to all commentary. Please send your comments to: Heather Garvin, Newsletter Editor heather.hartseed@gmail.com or CAGCS P.O. Box 3678 Woodbridge, CT 06525 203/387-0810 Formulated for Maximum Protection -Protect from the inside with the industry's only urea phosphite! -Protect from the outside with Turfscreen John Garcia 203-996-6267 Chris Cowan 413-530-5040 Scott Mackintosh 774-551-6083 www.AtlanticGolfandTurf.com This marked the third year of the “New Look” Nor’easter, and this year our group enjoyed the weather in sunny Southern California. This year’s event took place at Florent Restaurant & Lounge in San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter. Members from 11 GCSAA Chapters across the Northeast enjoyed great food, live entertainment, outstanding hand-rolled cigars, and a wonderful night of re-connecting with old friends. In all, nearly 400 people were in attendance, and everyone seemed to have a great time. This event would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors and participating aassociations: GCSA of Cape Cod, GCSA of New England, Hudson Valley GCSA, Connecticut GCSA, Rhode Island GCSA, Vermont GCSA, Long Island GCSA, Metropolitan GCSA, New Hampshire GCSA and Ontario GSA. If you haven’t already, be sure to thank them for their continued support of this event. A special thanks to Aquatrols for additional funding towards the live entertainment, and John Deere/ LaCorte for also funding the cigar roller. Planning has already begun for next year’s event in Orlando, so mark your calendars for Wednesday February 8th, 2017. Details to follow. MET Board member Brett Chapin, Aquatrols’ Kevin Collins, and I continue to run the committee responsible for organizing this event and welcome feedback, ideas, and additional sponsors…..feel free to reach out to any one of us! John Garcia, Atlantic Golf & Turf Increase Summer Survival -Trials produce more/deeper roots -Impressive reduction in thatch -Ask to see study results 2016 Sponsors…..Thank You!! Aquatrols Macro-Sorb Shaw’s/Knox Barenbrug Nufarm Site One BASF Nutrite SMS Additive Bayer Ocean Organics Sub Air Engage Agro Syngenta Performance Nutrition Harrell’s Plant Food TORO Jacobsen Playbooks UPI John Deere Precision Labs Winfield Koch QualiPro March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Kevin’s Corner Hopefully at this time of year you recently have enjoyed some much needed time off, followed by a stretch of workload that falls well below the typical summer stress line. The nature of this profession allows us to build a seasonal quality of life that often leads to a matching imbalance. Experienced superintendents and industry workers have developed a network of supporters and a system of routines to deal with the nature of the job. How did you accomplish those tasks? If you are like me when I was new to the industry, you worked hard for a very long time to adjust, and those closest to you, friends and family, needed to adjust with you to strike that balance. What about your new employees, who is assisting them to find a balance? What steps are being taken at your facility to help employees be as successful outside of the workplace as they are within? There are often similar steps taken to acclimate new employees into the team at your facility. Training and encouragement bolstered by proper compensation and benefits are basic tools to get the process moving. Recognition and empowerment by you and staff can increase the likelihood of a new employee succeeding as part of a team within the workplace. What steps are taken to help with the work-life balance beyond the out-of-bounds stakes? I continue to hear of younger, talented professionals moving out of the industry to different careers. While lack of upward job mobility may well be a reason, don’t overlook the difficulty of work-life balance. Traits of the younger generations do little to mirror the needs and historical workload of our industry. How would you describe the hours you put in at the course when you began? Would all day-every day be accurate? Time and flexibility are a priority to the employees entering our industry. As much as we value our personal time and family needs, the y o u n g e r generations entering the workforce most likely will have to have it. Flexibility may well be the key to making that happen. Working sunup to sundown is more indicative of a superintendent’s passion than a profession. Developing the golf industry as a passion may not happen in the first week, month or year. By then, the work-life balance may well be out of whack. Do you make it clear what the expectations are when they begin? Your recognition of their needs, and their understanding of your expectations should be on the table at the start. Can you be creative enough in scheduling for a promising young turf talent to thrive and attain that passion that drives us all? Page 4 Leadership and motivation are important tools of successful superintendents, and understanding generational traits of employees can assist with their use. Encouraging employees to be creative, empowering them to utilize their talents, and respecting them as people will go a long way towards their inclusion as a team member. Just knowing that what they value most could be the one thing that creates success for a new hire. While personal time might be the hardest item to provide, it may Customers,   Our  Top  Priority 81  Commerce  Dr. Brookfield,    CT  06804 www.metroturfspecialists.com Longtime  Supporter  of  the  CAGCS 50 YEARS OF SERVICE Call one of our sales representatives and receive our 5 Star Service. scott.apgar@metroturfspecialists.com Rich  Apgar 516-216-0731 rich.apgar@metroturfspecialists.com Jake  Green 203-984-7501 jake.green@metroturfspecialists.com just end up being the most critical to your people. GCSAA Resources and Deadlines You Get Cool Stuff from your Association Already GIS: Still teaching Whether you made it to San Diego or not, you can still learn from GIS! The GIS presentations have been uploaded to GCSAA.org for your viewing pleasure. Be sure to check them out at: http://www. golfindustryshow.com/gcsaa-educationconference/sessions/2016/2016-sessionpresentations Todd  Apgar 203-948-4941 todd.apgar@metroturfspecialists.com Matt  Topazio 845-821-8986 matt.topazio@metroturfspecialists.com Office  -  Gary:  Phone:  (203)  748-GOLF  (4653)  -  Fax:  (203)  743-0458       Page 5 is not too late yet! GCSAA is encouraging those interested in 2016 committee/task group service to apply. Contact Kevin Doyle to find out how. May 11: Managing Bentgrass under Summer Stress Conditions May 26: Empowering Your Career Equipment Management Series Upcoming FREE webcasts: Apr. 20: Waste Risks Solutions and Opportunities - Equipment Management Series May 5: Waiting for the Other Limb to Fall Minimizing Tree Liability May 10: I Wanna Be More Social Again, if I can be of any assistance, please feel free to contact me. Kevin Doyle GCSAA Field Staff kdoyle@gcsaa.org Follow me on Twitter @GCSAA_NE Top celebrities support 2016 “Thank a golf course superintendent” campaign Celebrities who enjoy playing golf, like Grammy award-winning entertainer Justin Timberlake and NBA Hall-of-Famer Charles Barkley, have joined the promotion to “thank a golf course superintendent.” The tagline will be used in television and radio commercials, as well as 2016 print and online advertising by GCSAA. The 30-second commercials will again air on the Golf Channel beginning in April. There will even be a sweepstakes to offer golfers the opportunity to win a trip to the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship in Lake Tahoe, Nev., in July, by personally thanking a golf course superintendent. Visit the following to watch the video and listen to the radio spot: http://www.gcsaa.org/ community/chapter-leaders/managingyour-chapter/materials-for-chapteroutreach Clean. Clear. Compatible. Ready to MAX your turf? Help us gather key data: Take the latest GCEP survey S�n�� 19�6 Scott  Apgar 914-879-9357 March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings The Property Profile and Environmental Stewardship Survey is now open. This latest survey in the Golf Course Environmental Profile focuses on collecting information regarding land use, turfgrass species and other non-turfgrass landscapes to compile data on overall property use on golf courses around the nation. Your participation provides vital information needed to advocate for the golf industry and superintendent profession. The GCEP is sponsored by the USGA in conjunction with the EIFG. To take the survey click here. GCSAA 2016 Opportunities Member Engagement Want to volunteer at the GCSAA level? It Our high quality “growfolio” of 30 innovative and effective liquid nutritionals is fully chelated, delivers quick response and offers long-lasting results. To learn more, call your Harrell’s rep or visit harrells.com today. MIKE DUKETTE 860.930.8888 mdukette@harrells.com JIM WIERZBICKI 860.424.7250 jwierzbicki@harrells.com March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Page 6 March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings LEGGETTE, BRASHEARS & GRAHAM, INC. Professional Groundwater and Environmental Engineering Services OVER 70 YEARS of HYDROGEOLOGIC EXPERIENCE, • DEEP Water Diversion Permitting and Renewal with a proven track record on GOLF COURSE projects. • Water-Supply Development and • • • • • Contact Rob Good at 860.678.0404 | 203.929.8555 www.lbgweb.com TREE SERVICE YOUR TREE CARE SPECIALISTS Engineering Lineament Analysis to Locate High Yield Water-Supply Wells Hydrogeologic Investigation Pond Design, Engineering, Permitting and Construction Management Hydraulic Analysis and Modeling Expert Testimony CAGCS Member Since 2001 We are proud and excited to announce that Erick B. Holm, CGCS has recently joined Golf Irrigation Services, Inc. Erick has worked in the management of golf courses for over 30 years. He has been actively involved in the installation of complete irrigation systems and upgrades along with using the latest computerized watering techniques. Erick will be involved in project management and customer service. We are delighted to welcome him to our team. Should you need our services feel free to call us anytime. We’re a phone call away. Art de Atienza, President Golf Irrigation Services, Inc. Erick B. Holm, CGCS 860-990-1855 Page 7 March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Page 8 March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Page 9 Anthony Grosso’s NERTF Board Service Honored at the 2016 Conference Congratulations! To Diana and Ishmael Franco, Superintendent at Highland golf club, on the birth of their daughter Mika Siobhan Franco. She was born on January 28, 2016 weighed in at 8 lbs 12 oz’s. To John Inguagiato and Michelle DeCosta, UCONN Turf Pathologist and UMASS Turf Physiologist, on the birth of their son, Michael Costa on April 1, 2016, weighing 8 lbs 4 oz and 20 inches. Kevin DeVaux on accepting the position of Golf Course Superintendent at Stanley Golf Course. Condolences On the passing of Dan & Steve Rackliffe’s father Dr. Robert L. Rackliffe. Please visit his obituary at http://www.legacy.com/ obituaries/hartfordcourant/obituary-print. aspx?n=robert-l-rackliffe&pid=177039944 On the passing of Joseph “Joe” R. Heller Jr., 72, of Enfield entered into eternal peace Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016, surrounded by his family. The son of the late Joseph and Edna (Higgins) Heller, Joe, also known as Jay, was born in Hartford and was raised in East Hartford. He lived in the Enfield community since 1966, where he raised his family. He was employed for the town of East Hartford at the East Hartford Golf Club for over 40 years retiring as golf course superintendent. Joe loved the outdoors, especially deer hunting and fishing. He enjoyed spending time in upstate New York catching monstrous king salmon on the famous Salmon River, as well as deep sea fishing in Long Island Sound in search of lunker stripers and blues. He was a member of CAGCS since 1972. Please visit his obituary at http://www.legacy. com/obituaries/journalinquirer/obituary. aspx?n=Joseph-R-Heller&pid=177779637 On the passing of Royal Dana Sibley, Jr. 86, of December Drive passed away Wednesday morning at his home. He was born September 9, 1929, in Providence, RI, son to the late Royal D. and Alice (Chadwick) Sibley, Sr. On March 17, 1973 in Cranston, RI he married Dianne (Millar) Sibley. She survives him. Royal honorably served his country in the US Army during the Korean War and was a member of the Jewett City VFW Post#10004. He attended the University of Rhode Island where he received his bachelor’s degree. He worked for many years for Charles Hart Seed Co. in Wethersfield, CT and was the owner of South Count Nursery in W. Kingston, RI, where he spent many happy days. He was a members of CAGCS since 1975. In lieu of flowers donations can me made in Royal’s memory to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 27 Babcock Ave., Plainfield, CT 06374. Please visit his obituary at http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/ norwichbulletin/obituary.aspx?n=Royal-DSibley&pid=177997475 CAGCS Board of Directors President – Eric Morrison, CGCS Vice President – Marc Weston, CGCS Secretary – Peter Gorman Treasurer – Paul Bonini, CGCS Past President – Donald Beck Committee Chairpersons Education – Stephen Curry Golf – Kevin Collins Membership – Duncan McGowan Scholarship & Research – Richard Duggan Social & Welfare – Andrew Fries, CGCS Government Relations – Scott Ramsay, CGCS Commercial Rep to Board – James Favreau Class C Rep to the Board – Tyler Kwalek CT Clippings Editor – Heather Garvin Anthony Grosso, one of the founding members of the New England Regional Turfgrass Foundation, was presented with a plaque in appreciation for his 19 years of service. In the mid 90’s Maine, Mass, and RI were competing with their own state Turf Conferences. When the RI group asked Connecticut to join them in running the show in Providence, the idea of a regional show for all six New England states began to take shape. The original board members from CT were Anthony Grosso, Peter Pierson, Mike Wallace, and Phil Neaton. Anthony’s input those first few years was critical in bringing all six New England state associations together for one regional show. He served as treasurer and co-chaired the research committee for many years. His involvement on the board will be missed. Congratulations to UMASS on finishing 10th place at the 2016 GCSSAA Turf Bowl Ted Tighe’s and family on the passing of his father, James “Jim” Tighe. Please visit his obituary at http://www.legacy.com/ obituaries/hartfordcourant/obituary. aspx?n=James-D-Tighe&pid=177958290 Unmatched Innovation From the Greensmaste r TriF lex to the INFINITY S prink ler, Toro conti nues to lead the indust ry w ith innovative product s. (800) 243-4355 www.turfproductscorp.com March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Page 10 March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Page 11 T H E U N I VE R S I T Y O F C O N N E C T I C U T I N VI T E S Y O U T O T H E 2016 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS April 25 NORWICH GOLF COURSE Bruce Morse Monday 2 Ball Shamble Host Superintendent May 23 Monday UConn Turfgrass Field Day Tuesday, July 19, 2016 at the Plant Science Research and Education Facility in Storrs, Connecticut For more information and to register, visit www.regonline.com/turfgrassfieldday2016 T he 2016 Turfgrass Field Day at Attendees will have an research results, turfgrass the University of Connecticut opportunity to discuss professionals have the op- ongoing research and portunity to interact with offers exciting educational opportunities for turf- management concerns grass professionals with the UConn turf team. latest developments and challenges of all levels. In addition to seeing the latest in the industry. exhibitors and discuss the The date of the Field Day has been to provide the best opportunity to view the research plots when they are under the greatest summer stress. Cutting edge research in the areas of lawn care, sports and golf turf management will be presented. AGENDA: selected in order 7:30 7:30–8:45 8:45–9:00 9:00–11:30 11:30–12:00 12:00– 1:00 12:30 1:00–3:00 1:30–2:30 Registration opens/continental breakfast Visit with exhibitors Welcoming remarks Guided tour of research plots Visit with exhibitors Lunch Ice cream social with exhibitors in vendor section Visit with exhibitors Afternoon Workshops (Separate registration required) • Handling and Field Application of Beneficial Nematodes • Sustainable and Pesticide-Free Turf Management • Turfgrass Disease Identification and Management Walking Tour Pesticide and certification credits will be available Early registration deadline is July 1, 2016. June 8 ORANGE HILLS COUNTRY CLUB Jud Smith Wednesday Low Gross/Net by Flight Host Superintendent   1st Round CAGCS Championship MET Team Championship Qualifier PRESENTING PARTNER   July 14 TORRINGTON COUNTRY CLUB Stephen Curry Thursday CAGCS Benevolent Fundraiser Host Superintendent Low Gross/Net Blind Partners 2nd round CAGCS Championship New England Team Championship Qualifier July 19 Tuesday Plant Science and Landscape Architecture UConn Extension UCONN Field Day Research Farm August 21 Lake Compounce Sunday CAGCS Family Day September 15 ROCKRIMMON COUNTRY CLUB Anthony Girardi, CGCS Thursday CAGCS MEMBER/GUEST Host Superintendent PRESENTING PARTNER October 3 Monday HOP MEADOW COUNTRY CLUB Bill DeMur 2 Person Best Ball Host Superintendent Superintendent/Assistant Tournament President’s Cup & McLaughlin Trophy October 18 SILVERMINE GOLF CLUB Tuesday CAGCS Class C Tournament PRESENTING PARTNER Chris Vitali Host Superintendent November 3 POMPERAUG GOLF CLUB David Golembeski Thursday 9-hole Scramble ABCD Host Superintendent CAGCS Annual Meeting PRESENTING PARTNER November 10 THE PATTERSON CLUB Thursday MET/CAGCS Fall Seminar December 1 Thursday Turfgrass Science Program Clinton Country Club Michael Decker CAGCS Scholarship & Research Tournament Host Superintendent PRESENTING PARTNER J. Timothy’s Taverne CAGCS Christmas Party Presenting Partner March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Page 12 March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Providing exceptional service in New England and the tri-state area for 25 years. Ride First Class. New England’s Finest Sod O'CONNOR PUMPS & SERVICES The All-New Jacobsen Truckster XD TM Class-Leading Payload Capacity, Power & Comfort Golf / Commercial / Agricultural Pumps The all-new Jacobsen Truckster XD heavy-duty utility vehicle is the new leader in every category that matters most to you: a massive, 3,550 lb. standard payload capacity; the toughest bed in the industry; and a commanding 52.7 ft.-lbs. of torque from the diesel engine (51.6 ft.-lbs of torque from the gas engine). More than just pure muscle, the Truckster XD also features 25% more cabin space than the competition. Learn more about how the Jacobsen Truckster XD makes easy work of your toughest jobs at Jacobsen.com. Quality. Varieties. Solutions. Grown by Sodco. Fairway Height Bentgrass Greens Height Bentgrass hJonathan Green Black Beauty hKentucky Bluegrass www.stevenwillandinc.com Mark Osborn 203.470.1178 | Page 13 Short Cut Black Beauty Short Cut Bluegrass h90-10 Fine Fescue/Blue hMicroclover Black Beauty h h h h With over 500 acres of Green Certified* land, Sodco offers customized contract growing opportunities. Contact us for more information. Bob Barrow 203.751.3474 Slocum, RI | 800.341.6900 | www.sodco.net *Green Certified by the Rhode Island DEM ANDERSON TURF IRRIGATION, INC. SPECIALIZING IN IRRIGATION SYSTEMS FOR Atheletic complexes/Cemeteries Commercial properties/Golf Courses Residential properties/Tennis courts Anderson Turf Irrigation is a conservation-minded company and part of the green industry Plainville, CT 06062 Phone: (860)747-9911 Fax: (860)793-2524 E-mail: andersont@snet.net andersonturfirrigation.com CT LIC # PLM.0208739 RI LIC # MI000063 NY Suffolk County LIC # 45841-RE & # 38977-RP We service, sell, and install well pumps, submersible pumps, booster pumps, jet pumps, irrigation pumps, sump pumps, water softeners, iron filters, sediment filters, reverse osmosis, pressure tanks, water holding tanks, and water lines. www.oconnorpumps.com 860-967-3559 Joconnor@oconnorpumps.com HumaGrow Turf Micro Carbon Technology™ makes nutrients much more effective and efficient than any other nutrient sources on the market today; several times more efficient than granular fertilizers and a few times more efficient than the highest quality chelates Visit: HumaGrowTurf.com EarthGreen’s Menefee mineral products SeaMate 6-8-12 w/humic & fulvic acid Nutrients Plus for Dynamic fertilizer Strategies 16-2-3 has five sources of N 60% SRN– 40% OM Progressive Turf Soybean Extract Fertilizers Turf Foundation 10-3-5 & Greater Green 5-0-7 Summer StressMaster 0-0-31 w/UTE From the originators of Liquid Phosphites Alliance Seed Executive Turf Products Stamford, CT   203-496-0891 executiveturf@gmail.com March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Page 14 March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings EVERY SUPERINTENDENT NEEDS A GREAT CADDIE. Let us try out for the part. We can provide all the supplies you need to keep your course looking its best. With our knowledgeable staff, we can help you make an ace. CT License J-3 279958 IRRIGATI ON · DE S IG N · B UI LD Serving New England and the Tri-State Area 860.378.0071 Chris Daigle Matt Faherty www.winterberryirrigation.com CT License J-3 279958 | RI License M1000224 | NJ License 197246 Continued from page 1... The first year I was intimidated. By the second year, I went to every Connecticut congressional office to drop off literature and offer myself up as a resource to them.” Although his Grassroots Ambassador duties usually only take a few hours each month, his advocacy efforts go beyond the program, and he is often called on to speak for the industry at the state level. He is the Connecticut chapter’s government relations liaison and was asked to serve on the board of the Connecticut Environmental Council, which is focused on the responsible use of pesticides and fertilizers. Earlier this month, he was in Harford, Conn., to testify on a state Senate bill concerning pollinator health and habitat. Ward Weischet | 203.605.0013 Agronomic Sales Representative 800.SiteOne | SiteOne.com Yale has been very supportive of his advocacy work and the new knowledge he has gained from it. And the experience has altered his own view on the role that superintendents can play in benefitting the golf industry. “It started slowly for me,” Ramsay said. “But then I just realized, why don’t we speak up? We all need to do our part to speak up and be heard.” Page 15 March/April 2016 Connecticut Clippings Page 16 CAGCS thanks these patrons for their continued support of our association. A-OK Turf Equipment Lastec, Wiedenmann, Graden, Baroness, Lely, Pronovost, Stec, Sweep & Fill, Turf Pride, Maredo, Classen, Salsco, Terrien – aokturfequipment.com Michael Cornicelli (401)826-284 Fax (401)826-3746 Grigg Brothers John Wiblishauser Email: john@griggbros.com Website: www.grggbros.com Join us on facebook or Follow on Twitter Allens Seed Seed, Fertilizer, Turf Supplies Exeter, RI 02822 Al LaPrise (401) 741-4444 • (800) 527-3898 Harrell’s Jim Wierzbicki (860) 424-7250 Mike Dukette (860) 930-8888 Customer Service (800) 228-6656 www.harrells.com Steven Willand, Inc. 4 Production Dr. (203)775-5757 Brookfield, CT 06804 Mark Osborn cell: (203) 470-1178 Bob Barrow cell: (203) 751-3474 Aquatrols Corp. of America Innovative Products for Effective Resource Management Kevin P. Collins, N.E. Territory Mgr. (609) 841-2077 (cell) The Chas C. Hart Seed Co. Quality Since 1892 – turf@hartseed.com 860-529-2537 • 1-800-326-HART Paul Bednarczyk (203) 430-4087 Heather Garvin (860) 836-7337 Syngenta Professional Products Fairfield County - Brian Goudey (518)-859-2953 - brian.goudey@syngenta.com All other CT Counties - Melissa Gugliotti (860) 221-5712 melissa.gugliotti@syngenta.com AtlanticGolf & Turf Dedicated to Your Success John Garcia (203) 996-6267 Chris Cowan (413) 530-5040 Scott Mackintosh (774) 551-6083 LaCorte Equipment/John Deere Golf Jim Calladio – Dan Paradise 522 Edwards Ave., Calverton, NY 11933 (800) 560-3373 x32, lacorteequipment.com golfparts@lacorteequipment.com Terre Co. 206 Delawanne Ave. Clifton NJ (973) 473-3393 FAX (973) 473-4402 Byron Johnson - Home (203) 748-5069 BASF “We Create Chemistry” Pete Jacobson 919-530-9062 Peter.jacobson@basf.com Bayer Environmental Science Fairfield, Litchfield, New Haven Counties: Dave Sylvester (860) 841-3173. Hartford, New Haven, New London, Middlesex, Tolland, Windham: Brian Giblin (508) 439-9809 The Cardinals, Inc. Complete Distributor of Golf Course Accessories & Turf Maintenance Supplies John Callahan cell – (860) 673-3699 cardinalsinc@att.net – (800) 861-6256 Carriere Materials Bill Carriere – (914)414-4969 Partac Top Dressings U.S. Silica Top – Dressing & Bunker Sand Root Zone Mixes Championship Turf Services Core and Deep Tine Aerification Linear Decompaction Overseeding and Custom Applications Michael Flowers, CSFM (860) 982-3883 Executive Turf Products Huma Gro “Micro Carbon Technology” Stanford, CT (203) 496-0891 Executiveturfproducts@gmail.com Leggette, Brashears & Graham, Inc. 6 Executive Drive Farmington, CT 06032 Contact Rob Good (860) 678-0404 Metro Turf Specialists Customers, OUR TOP Priority for 50 years Todd Apgar (203) 948-4941 Jake Green (203) 984-7501 (203) 748-4653, metroturfspecialists.com MGC Developers, LLC Netting Safety Barrier Steve LaMesa (860) 290-8552 www.mgcdevelopers.com email: info@mgcdevelopers.com New England Specialty Soils 1mm + 2mm Top Dressing Sand, HD Bunker Sand, Divot Blends, 5221 Mix, Root Zone Blends. ed@nesoils.com Ed Downing (978) 230-2300 Partac Golf Course Top-Dressing (800) 247-2326 Fax (908) 637-8421 Email: sales@PARTAC.com www.PARTAC.com Plant Food Company, Inc. The Liquid Fertilizer Experts www.plantfoodco.com Jason Dowgiewicz (860) 508-5419 David Conrad (914) 263-3244 Sodco, Inc. Slocum, RI , 800-341-6900, www.sodco.net Your golf course grass needs grown on our Green Certified Farm;-Bentgrass, Black Beauty, Bluegrass, Fine Fescue, Short Cuts, Contract Growing Tom Irwin, Inc. Turf Management Products With Tom Irwin, You are not alone. Rob Larson (508) 789-0059 Jeff Houde (203) 731-1776 Main (800) 582-5959 Tuckahoe Turf Farms, Inc. A1 – A4 Bentgrass Low Cut Bluegrass High Fine Fescue Blend Joe Farina (774) 260-0093 Turf Products Toro Equipment & Irrigation Serving the industry since 1970 Enfield, CT (800) 243-4355 www.turfproductscorp.com Westchester Turf Supply, Inc. “40 YEARS OF SERVICE” Bob Lippman – Dave Lippman Office: (845) 621-5067 Email: westturf@comcast.net Winding Brook Turf 240 Griswold Rd., Wethersfield, CT 06119 Michael Krudwig (860) 883-0475 For all your golf course grassing needs Winterberry Irrigation Chris Daigle (860) 883-2695 Matt Faherty (860) 681-8982 www.winterberryirrigation.com Complete Irrigation/Pump installatiobm sales & service 2016 Meeting Dates For The Following Chapters Connecticut Association of Golf Course Superintendents - www.cagcs.com, Golf Course Superintendents of Cape Cod - www.gcsacc.org, Golf Course Superintendents of New England - www.gcsane.org, Maine Golf Course Superintendents Association - www.mainegcsa.org, New Hampshire Golf Course Superintendents - www.nhgcsa.com, Metropolitan Golf Course Superintendents Association - www.metgcsa.org, Rhode Island Association of Golf Course Superintendents - rigcsa.org & Vermont Golf Course Superintendents Association - www.vtgcsa.com PLEASE NOTE! Check your local chapters web site for updates! Tuesday, April 19, 2016 Tuesday, April 19, 2016 Monday, April 25, 2016 Tuesday, April 26, 2016 Tuesday, April 26, 2016 Thursday, May 12, 2016 Monday,May 16, 2016 Wednesday, May 18, 2016 Wednesday, May 18, 2016 Monday, May 23, 2016 Monday, May 23, 2016 Monday, May 23, 2016 Tuesday, May 24, 2016 Tuesday, May 31, 2016 Monday, June 6, 2016 Wednesday, June 8, 2016 Tuesay, June 14, 2016 Wednesday, June 15, 2016 Monday, June 20, 2016 Wednesday, June 22, 2016 Thursday, June 23, 2016 Tuesday, June 27, 2016 Monday, July 11, 2016 Thursday, July 14, 2016 Monday, July 18, 2016 Monday, July 18, 2016 Tuesday, July 19, 2016 Wednesday, July 20, 2016 Wednesday, July 20, 2016 Tuesday, August 9, 2016 Tuesday, August 16, 2016 Sunday, August 21, 2016 , August TBA , August TBA , August TBA Thursday, September 1, 2016 Monday, September 14, 2016 Wednesday, September 14, 2016 Thursday, September 15, 2016 Monday, September 19, 2016 Monday, September 26, 2016 , September TBA , September TBA , September TBA Monday, October 3, 2016 Monday, October 3, 2016 Monday, October 3, 2016 Tuesday, October 4, 2016 Tuesday, October 11, 2016 Tuesday, October 18, 2016 Tuesday, October 18, 2016 Tuesday, October 25.2016 , October TBA , October TBA , October TBA , October TBA Tuesday, November 1, 2016 Thursday, November 3, 2016 Monday, November 7, 2016 Thursday, November 10, 2016 Tuesday, December 13, 2016 November TBA , December TBA , December TBA , December TBA Siwanoy Country Club Dave Mahoney Two-Ball Champ. Qualifer Metropolitan GCSA Foster Country Club ABCD Scramble Rhode Island GCSA Norwich Golf Club 2-Ball Shamble CAGCS Olde Scotland Links Golf Club Bear Cup Tournament - Joint w/GCSA of New England GCSA of Cape Cod Olde Scotland Links Golf Club The Bear Cup - joint w/GCSA of Cape Cod GCSA of New England Paramount Country Club Superintendent & Guest Metropolitan GCSA Pine Hills Golf Club Annual Joseph Troll Turf Classic UMASS Alumni Turf Group The Oak Golf Links Joint meeting with Maine New Hampshire GCSA the Oak Golf Links Joint meeting with New Hampshire Maine GCSA Clinton Country Club Scholarship & Research Tournament CAGCS Franklin Country Club Joint meeting w/RIGCSA GCSA of New England Franklin Country Club Joint Meeting w/GCSANE -Memorial Tournament Rhode Island GCSA Wianno Club Scholarship & Research Tournament GCSA of Cape Cod Stratton Mountain Club Joint meeting w/NEGCSA Vermont GCSA Country Club of Darien Invitational Tournament Metropolitan GCSA 1st Round CAGCS Champ/MET Team Qualifier Orange Hills Country Club CAGCS Metacomet Country Club Member/Member Tournament Rhode Island GCSA Country Club of New Hampshire 25th Gold Ball Invitational Tournament New Hampshire GCSA South Shore Country Club GCSA of Cape Cod Country Club of Barre Vermont GCSA Augusta Country Club Superintendent/Vendor Champ. Maine GCSA Cyprian Keys Golf Club Scholarship and Benevolence Tournament GCSA of New England Orienta Beach Club Family Picnic Metropolitan GCSA Benevolent Fundraiser/2nd Round CAGCS Champ/NE Team Qualifier CAGCS Torrington Country Club Indian Pond Country Club RHO-COD Cup - joint meeting (RIGCSA) GCSA of Cape Cod Indian Pond Country Club RHO-COD Cup - joint meeting (GCSACC) Rhode Island GCSA UCONN Plant Science Research & Edu. Center UCONN FIELD DAY Bedford park Social Metropolitan GCSA West Bolton Golf Course Fun-B-Q Vermont GCSA Marlborough Country Club Individual Championship GCSA of New England Swansea Country Club Stress Buster Day Rhode Island GCSA CAGCS Family Day Lake Compounce CAGCS Cotuit Highground FREE-B-QUE GCSA of Cape Cod Mosholu Golf Course Scholarship & Parent/Child Tournament Metropolitan GCSA The Hermitage Club Vermont GCSA Crosswinds Golf Course New England Championship qualifier GCSA of Cape Cod Blue Hill Country Club Member Guest GCSA of New England Woodstock Country Club Trade Show/Field Day Vermont GCSA Rockrimmon Country Club Member/Guest CAGCS Cranston Country Club Championship - NE Champs Qualifier Rhode Island GCSA Country Club of Scranton Met Area Team Championship Metropolitan GCSA Silvermine Golf Club Nine & Dine Event Metropolitan GCSA Scholarship & Research Tournament Maine GCSA New England Team Championship Qualifier New Hampshire GCSA Hop Meadow Country Club Superintendent/ Assistant Tournament CAGCS Concord Country Club Member/Member GCSA of New England Poa Fundraiser Metropolitan GCSA Wanumetonomy Golf & Country Club Scholarship & Research Tournament Rhode Island GCSA Boston Golf Club Championship Tournament GCSA of Cape Cod Silvermine Golf Club Class C Tournament CAGCS Wawenock Staff Day Maine GCSA Newport Country Club Superintendent/Assistant Tournament Rhode Island GCSA Rutland Country Club Member/Guest Vermont GCSA New England Team Championship Vermont GCSA Assistant Tournament GCSA of New England Scholarship & Research Tournament New Hampshire GCSA Willowdale Golf Club Education/Golf Maine GCSA Pomperaug Golf Club Annual Meeting CAGCS Milton-Hoosic Club Nine-Hole Meeting GCSA of New England The Patterson Club Met/CAGCS Fall Seminar Metropolitan GCSA Portland Country Club Annual Meeting Maine GCSA Midville Golf Club Rhode Island GCSA Annual Meeting New Hampshire GCSA GCSA of Cape Cod Holiday Inn, Concord, NH Annual Turf Education Conference New Hampshire GCSA 2016 New England Regional Turfgrass Show 2/29-3/3 2016 New England Regional Turfgrass Show 2/29-3/3