Michigan Chapter GCSA A1 aCOURSE Golf Course Superintendents Association of America J Issue #49 - Q4 2020 Conditions Quarterly Publication of the Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association FEATURE SUPERINTENDENT Jordan Caplan Belvedere Golf Club INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Feature: My Road to Citizenship, by: Carlos Guerrero Industry Partner: Matthew Kraemer, CGCS, Toro Golf Irrigation at Spartan Distributors FLORATINE. X-FACTDR EXPECT MORE FOLIARS THE FASTEST TERPENOIDS FOR GREATER FOLIAR UPTAKE PLANT POTENTIAL PLANT-ABSORBED NON­ ABIOTIC STRESS FIGHTERS CONTACT UV BLOCKER WITH ANTIOXIDANTS SALICYLIC ACID FOR PRE-BIOSTIMULANT INCREASED RuBisCO EXCITATION AMINO ACIDS GSreat cience B L, akes TDurf ased performance riven Contents 4 MiGCSA Board of Directors 28 The 2020 Big Event Fundraiser 5 President’s Perspective 33 Industry Profile - Matthew Kraemer 7 Feature: My Road to Citizenship 39 2020 Western Golf Day Fundraiser 13 John R. Fulling Jr. Leadership Scholarship 44 Steven Page - Senior at Michigan State University 15 Golf Architecture: Success due to the Superintendent 48 Interactive Course Renovation Tour 18 The Tuck Tate, Wee One and Northern 51 MTF Updates Fundraiser at Forest Dunes Fundraiser 55 2020 Golf Association of Michigan 20 Superintendent - Jordan Caplan Superintendent Award of Merit Winner 25 From National 56 Michigan Assistant Superintendent Championship 26 The 2020 MiGCSA Match Play Championship 58 Association Update Course Conditions | issue #49 - Q4 2020 Michigan Chapter (Bgcsaa COURSE ' ~ Goll Counnj SupB'lntwidenls Aswxsmffeii of America Profile interviews conducted by Greg Johnson, Greg Johnson Media L.L.C. Conditions BOARD OF DIRECTORS EQUIPMENT BEN BEARD PRESIDENT ROB STEGER, CGCS BOARD MEMBERS JEFF HOPKINS MANAGER LIAISON Western-Class EM Mid-Class A Western-Class A American Dunes G.C. Red Run Golf Club Muskegon County Club COMMUNICATIONS JESSE SHAVER GENE DAVIS COLLIN ROMANICK COMMITTEE Gull Lake C.C. VICE PRESIDENT DOUG WARE Northern-Class A Blythefield C.C. Chairman Greater Detroit-Class A Elk Rapids Golf Club TOM SCHALL, CGCS City of Livonia CRAIG MCKINLEY JARED MILNER Oakland University Buck’s Run Golf Club Detroit-Class A ROB STEGER, CGCS SECRETARY/ RYAN MOORE Meadowbrook C.C. JARED MILNER Red Run Golf Club TREASURER Greater Detroit-Class A Meadowbrook C.C. Forest Lake C.C. ADAM GARR MICAH WISE BRETT ROBERTS Detroit-Class A Site One Target Specialty Syngenta Professional Products Products JOE ETTAWAGESHIK PAST PRESIDENT JEFF SWEET, CGCS ASSISTANT LIAISON TIM MATTY Lochenheath Golf Club Mid-Class A Bucks Run G.C. Greater Detroit-Class C Country Club of Detroit Course Conditions is published 4 times a year by the Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association. Opinions expressed by guest writers do not necessarily reflect the views of the MiCGSA. 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Some products may not be registered for sale or use in all states or counties and/or may have state-specific use requirements. Please check with your local extension service to ensure registration and proper use. GreenCast®, Posterity®, the Alliance Frame, the Purpose Icon and the Syngenta logo are trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. 4 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association | www.migcsa.org President’s PERSPECTIVE Fellow MiGCSA Members, I hope this letter finds you and your families healthy and safe. As Covid-19 numbers across the country are escalating I think, it is important to remember and thank your turf teams for being there for the golf course during a challenging season. I also think it will be important to check in on them periodically throughout the winter months. This year I have two turf teams to thank. In the Spring of the year there was a lot of uncertainty about if/when/who was going to be allowed to work. The Board of Governors and GM at Saginaw Country Club stepped up providing some meals and Easter dinner for everyone on my staff even though most of them were still laid off. This gesture went a long way for the crew showing them that Saginaw C.C. genuinely cared about their wellbeing. When we were finally given approval to resume working, all but one person returned to work immediately giving up substantial unemployment benefits to be there for the golf course. The final holdout was back to work within a week after having a change of heart. The team did an amazing job following the new protocols to keep everyone safe. I know this story is not unique to Saginaw Country Club, I know turf teams across the state stepped up when called upon working with less staff trying to provide the same product everyone has become accustomed to. When I started at Red Run Golf Club on October 1st, I knew the team was probably already tired after what feels like the never-ending golf season of 2020. They probably were not too excited about the new guys who had a laundry list of goals to accomplish before the snow flies. I cannot thank them enough for putting their heads down and getting so much accomplished in the last two months. They were true professionals in every sense of the word. Red Run Golf Club’s Board of Governors, membership and GM have also been extremely supportive of the staff doing extra things to thank them for their efforts. Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 5 PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE The golf industry is different than any other business I have ever been a part of. There is a family feel to it, everyone truly cares about everyone else. Superintendents offer to help other Superintendents who work at clubs that compete for the same memberships. Memberships/Owners/Golfers do little things to show their appreciation for the work we all do. I think it is what makes this business so great. As your seasons come to a close, please remember to thank the people that make us all look good (from a safe social distance of course). Best Regards, Rob Steger, CGCS turf Erwin McKone is a Michigan native, growing up in Flint, Michigan was introduced to turf at Genesee Valley Meadows. Erwin earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology at the University of Michigan and was a Research Assistant for Bruce Branham at the University of Illinois. Erwin served as Chief Operating Officer and Director of Golf Operations at Briar Ridge Country Club prior to joining the Turf Ventures team in 2016. Turf Ventures is a major distributor of chemicals and supplies. The company philosophy emphasizes playability as guiding principle for agronomic decisions. Turf Ventures believes in common sense agronomic principles and proven cultural practices to ensure the success of its partners. Erwin H. McKone, CGCS 219-688-0089 erwin@chicagolandturf. com Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association I www.migcsa,org FEATURE .. \7.7 i , V;.; ’/.J ' ’ : ‘ ■ •' ’ : by: Carlos Guerrero, Golf Course Superintendent at Beechwood Golf Course “*77: Sr * w ■<. W: y name is Carlos Guerrero and I am a My journey began in the Spring of 2002 when M citizen of the United States of America. I received a H2B Visa from the Grand Hotel It has been an exciting adventure for a on Mackinac Island, Michigan, to work on their guy born and raised in Mexico City to be able18-hole golf course - The Jewel. It was my first to make that statement. And I made my first time in the United States and also my first time official patriotic act on November 3, 2020—1 stepping foot onto a golf course. I barely spoke proudly exercised my right as a citizen to vote English and communication with the in an United States presidential election. course superintendent was very difficult Course Conditions #49 - Q4 2020 Golf cart ride with family created a multitude of setbacks to my Permanent Resident Card timeline. I had heard stories about applicants getting separated from their spouses during the process and how difficult it is. Many people give up and stop trying. Fortunately, I never got separated from my wife and while it was a little frustrating at times, Cara and I were determined not to give up. After we were married and completed our season on Mackinac Island, we wanted to move Cutting cups with Daughter to a big city. We packed up everything and moved to Atlanta, Georgia. I started working for a time. There was no other option for me but to for Mike Crawford (now Director of Golf Course learn the language, so I did! With the help of one Maintenance Operations at PGA Tour) at TPC of my longtime friends who was also working at Sugarloaf as a spray technician. I owe so much The Jewel, my then-girlfriend and now wife, Cara, to Mike and his willingness to give me a chance, and lots and lots of practice, I was able to learn the challenge me, and share with me his passion for English language. the golf course business. Cara and I were married in 2006 at a picture­ During my time in Georgia, I continued the perfect wedding surrounded by family and Permanent Resident Card application process friends in the Tea Garden at the Grand Hotel. As which included completing biometrics my Visa was going to expire in the fall, I applied fingerprinting screenings and a formal interview. for my first work permit which was good for A portion of the interview includes questions to only six months and my permanent resident card ensure that Cara and I married for love, not a (commonly referred to as a Green Card). During Green Card. In preparation for my interview, we those six months I could not leave the United gathered wedding photos, postcards, photos States and my permit was good only for work from our Upper Peninsula adventures, letters and nothing else. All I could do during these of reference from people who knew us, and months was cross my fingers that no family anything that we could think of that would show emergencies came up back in Mexico as leaving our marriage was valid. I even memorized tiny the United States during this time could have details such as her favorite song, does she brush 8 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association | www.migcsa.org FEATURE other. We followed First time voting Official citizenship handshake with the Judge the guidelines and truly loved each other, so we knew we just had to be to move on. We packed up again, but this time calm and tell the truth. Everything went well for we headed east. We moved just outside of New us and I received my Permanent Resident Card, York City, where I continued my online classes at valid for 10 years. Even though the card was good Penn State University and began working as an for 10 years, Cara regularly made sure I did not assistant superintendent for Manhattan Woods forget our anniversary! Golf Club, The Tuxedo Club and Hudson National Golf Club. While in New York, I officially earned After two years in Atlanta, we were missing my Turf Management Certificate and became a Michigan and all of our friends and family, so father to a beautiful baby girl. I am sure many we headed home. This time when I returned fathers understand how having a child changes to Mackinac Island, I was offered the assistant our priorities. For Cara and I, we wanted to superintendent position at The Jewel. While raise Sofia in a safe, small town. After the golf the promotion excited me, I knew that without season, we packed back up and moved to Cara’s any formal turfgrass education, my professional hometown of St. Joseph, Michigan, and advancement would be limited. As such, I I started my first job as a golf course decided to enroll in online classes at Penn State superintendent. University. I worked three years as an assistant at The Jewel when Cara and I decided it was time Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 With the rise in immigration issues in the news, I knew it was time for Cara and I to discuss what our next steps would be. We needed to decide whether to continue renewing my permanent resident status or apply to become a United States citizen. A couple key factors to making that decision included (1) both my wife and daughter were United States citizens and (2) I have a great appreciation for what the United States has to offer. It encouraged me to make a firm decision. I applied to become a United States citizen. Upon approval of my application, I received my interview date at the Department of Homeland Security in Detroit along with a booklet which included a study guide for a naturalization test. I began to study the 100 questions and answers right away. Since I did not grow up in the United States, Daughter holding American Flag made of her fingerprints saMtE* live in your pon4? 7th Hole Pond Transformation Stop Feeding the Monster and Start Restoring Your Pond Bio-Health Pod Systems work 24/7 generating billions of beneficial microbesthat aggressively consume and digest bottom muck and the nutrients that lead to algae blooms. Contact Roy Cole: Cell 248-640-1149, Email Roy@RIGERO.com Visit rigero.com/golf-course Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association I www.migcsa.org FEATURE would be an American. I will live the American Dream. That moment was about to happen. The judge asked me to raise my hand and I swore under oath. I was officially an American citizen with all the rights and freedoms that came along with it. I am a firm believer that if you do the right thing, good things will come into your life. I have made sacrifices by leaving my country, my Mom, my Brother, and all of my family in Mexico, but I am thankful for their support and to know they are proud of me. I will always be thankful for those who supported me, those who believed in me, and those who were kind enough to give me their hand to help me become who I am today. This country has shown me it is full of such people since the day Carlos, his wife Cara and daughter Sofia I arrived, and for that I am proud to say I am a citizen of the United States of America. I did not know much about civics. I learned facts like who was the first President of the Don’t let the fear of a bogey keep you from United States, what was one of the causes of playing the game. the Civil War, and why Election Day is always on a Tuesday. I had to be prepared to be asked 10 questions at random out of the 100 and get six correct. I aced it by answering my first six questions correctly! The second part of the test was reading and writing, which I knew I was going to do well. The rest of the time was spent with an immigration official interviewing me about my life and history. My entire future was riding on this interview and was in the hands of the officer. At the end of my interview I remember my officer telling me “Carlos, Non-retouched client photo: GreenJacket System coming off in the spring! congratulations you have passed your test!” All I could do was take a deep breath of relief and smile from ear to ear. PROVEN BY 20+YEARS OF Shortly after that day, I received a notification SUPERINTENDENT SUCCESS. for my naturalization ceremony. It was March • Patented IMPERMEABLE Reinforced Winter Cover 20, 2019, at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Turf Protection System. Museum in Grand Rapids. I will never forget • PERMEABLE Reinforced Grow-in Covers increase the excitement that I felt. All the years of hard healthier turf growth. work, learning a new language, going to school, Find out how the GreenJacket System and becoming a superintendent were finally can make a difference for your turf. paying off. I had worked hard and followed all Call 888-786-2683 or Email info@greenjacket.com the rules. All of these things ran through my See Research at GreenJacket.com mind as I thought that after this moment, I Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 What if a Pythium Product Did More? Introducing Union" Fungicide SC: Dual mode-of-action control of all Pythium diseases and 17 other diseases in a single product. Union" Eliminates. • All Pythium Diseases • Brown Patch U nion FUNGICIDE SC • Summer Patch • 15 More Turf Diseases Provides Exceptional Control of Listed Patch and Pythium Diseases in Turfgrass +Plus Union also eliminates the time and labor needed to tank mix fungicides. ► For more information contact Don Botkin at 612.655.8787. ^"| pbi /gorcIoh I coRponation Always read and follow label directions. Union™ is a trademark of PBI-Gordon Corp. 01/20 05865 Employee-Owned John R. Fulling Jr. Leadership Scholarship n September 28th at the 2020 Western Golf Day Fundraiser at O Kalamazoo Country Club a new scholarship was announced that will be available for MiGCSA Members starting in 2021. The MiGCSA Scholarship Committee has proposed, and the board has approved the new John R. Fulling Jr. Leadership Scholarship. This scholarship will help individuals improve and hone their leadership skills both personally and professionally. This scholarship will be offered in perpetuity to MiGCSA Members and awarded through review of the scholarship committee on a yearly basis. John is the current President of the GCSAA, the first President of the MiGCSA and a past MTF President. He worked tirelessly to help bring the four Michigan Chapters together for many years that culminated in a vote in 2008. Course Conditions i issue #49 - Q4 2020 WinField united Helping You Win Service. Solutions. Insights. When it comes to your course, you need a partner that’s consistent. Count on us for the right products and the technical insights you need to help your business thrive. Call your WinField® United representative today to learn how we can help you win. Nick Binder - Professional Sales Representative (517) 974-4209 or ndbinder@landolakes.com adjuvants • dyes/wetting agents herbicides • insecticides • fungicides fertilizers • micronutrients winfieldunitedpro.com WinField is a registered trademark of Winfield Solutions, LLC. © 2017 Winfield Solutions, LLC 14 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association | www.migcsa.org RCHITECTS Golf Architecture: Success due to the Superintendent BY BRUCE A. HEPNER, HEPNER GOLF DESIGN LLC ’ve been fortunate in my over 30-year career to work all over greatest golf courses ever. I the world building and consulting at some of the highest ranked Then practicality sets in and finest golf courses. Working from New Zealand to Australia, and once in the field, many to Mexico, to Scotland, and in 25 different states has allowed me of those “great” ideas are to work in varying climates, cultures, and lands. The one constant really unmaintainable and is that the most important role in any project’s success, is the the superintendent’s job superintendent. Their willingness to take on the challenge of full is to be the cold dose of filling the owner’s and architects’ vision and figure it out from reality. So, we have to learn scratch never ceases to amaze me. Tom Doak, who I worked for from them what is doable. 17 years, always said that after building what we thought was a Having an honest relationship great golf course, “all we can do is hand over the keys, its success with the superintendent is is up to them.” That statement is so true, and it has proven over the important key to any the years that the most successful projects are caretaken by great success and the trust that superintendents. I’ve been very fortunate to work what I think are develops can allow us push the best and most innovative superintendents in the business. Each each other to the limits of one has taught me something new and made me a better Architect practicality. The majority in the long run. of the superintendents I’ve have worked with have made Every day, we Architects, have what we think are the greatest me a better architect by ideas in golf design and if implemented they’ll be made into the this push - pull relationship. Ken Nice, the now Director of Grounds at the Bandon Dunes Resort, was a budding Assistant Superintendent of the Bandon Dunes Golf Course when we began the Pacific Dunes project. Ken was pushed over to us to oversee the construction and grown in. Pacific Dunes was a pretty radical piece of seaside dunes land and we wanted to really push the fairway contours but we didn’t know the limits of Ballyneal Golf Club Course Conditions | issue #49 - Q4 2020 maintainability for turf grass. We’d ask Ken daily if a certain contour was too much and he’d reply “ it’s your job to create and my job is to figure out how to maintain it.” Ken gave us the freedom, but we respected it so much that we internally made sure we didn’t take advantage of it and built within the limits of practicality. Pacific Dunes turned out pretty darn good, it has much to do with Ken. Dave Hensley, now the General Manager, at Ballyneal Golf Club in Colorado inherited Pacific Dunes the Superintendents position by attrition. The owner at the time was chewing up Superintendents and they were quitting right and left. Dave was a second assistant and overseeing the irrigation installation, when I rolled up to him and said “ Well I guess you’re in charge.” We were specifying a blend of Fine Fescue as the turfgrass to create a links type playing surface and Dave was coming from a back ground of Bluegrass fairways in the Rocky Mountains. He gulped and asked “What kind of grass are you using?” in a you got to be kidding tone of voice. Dave ended up, through trial and error, being one of the foremost experts of Fine Fescue turfgrass playing conditions in the world. Dave along Streamsong Blue with now superintendent Jared Kalina have some of the finest playing conditions in golf. They have taken the design to a whole different level and Ballyneal is one of the coolest places to play golf because of them. Brian Slawnik, now Senior Design Associate for Tom Doak and Renaissance Golf Design, was fresh out of Architecture School at the University of Virginia and working summers on the crew at Oakland Hills. Dr. Mike Hurdzan guided Brian to the MSU Turf program as the next step into a possible career in Golf Architecture. Brian enrolled and the “great” Dr. Trey Rogers called me and said we have this student who wants to do his internship on a construction project. Brian joined us for the summer at Beechtree Golf Club in Tara Iti Maryland. By the end of the summer Brian Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association www.migcsa.org was well on his way in a great career in Golf Course Architecture, mainly because of his work ethic and extremely talented eye. Brian turned his turf background into becoming one of the best finish work talents in the business, and now one of the best shapers/ architects that I know of. Brian, along with Tom Doak, is one of the master minds behind The Loop and was in charge of arguably one of the greatest courses in the world, Tara Iti in New Zealand. Brain pushed me in my career by paying attention to the Essex County Club details in both design and maintainable turf. Kyle Harris, now Superintendent of the Red and Blue at Streamsong Resort, was one our interns that Tom Doak plucked off of Golf Club Atlas.com. Kyle showed up for the project with a Rutgers turf degree and we didn’t know what to think of this “smart guy.” He wasn’t a typical Ivy League intern who wanted my job, so we just put him in with the finish guys. Kyle excelled but we figured there was more to him. Rusty Mercer, the great Head of Agronomy who was handpicked by Bill Coore and us to run the project, had no assistants yet and we were ready to start grassing. We put Kyle in Birmingham CC charge of sprigging the golf course and by trial and error, he figured out the best way I could go on and on about the men I’ve learned to grass the site was by hand springing all so much from in my career and most were 36 holes. Kyle and his 18-man crew spread Superintendents. It’s the common passion and work Bermuda sprigs by hand. It was quite a sight ethic that set the “Greenkeeper ’s” apart in my mind. watching the operation that we all learned Passionately working 90 plus hour weeks as young from. Once construction was completed, budding superintendents set the foundation for the we needed a man on site to make sure rest of their careers. Most of my best friends in the the details were taken care of. Kyle, under business are Superintendents and are our common the wings of Rusty, became our on-site love of golf courses and that trusting relationship have design associate/grow in superintendent produced some great results. I don’t know how many and worked with me to really set the tone times that either Eric Richardson (Essex County Club, of the spectacular landscape that evolved Mass.) or Dan Dingman (Birmingham CC), both MSU to the resort it is today. Kyle is now the grads, have lectured me “your job is to just make it Head Superintendent of two of the Top cool and my job is to figure out how to maintain it.” 100 courses in the country. From intern to You can’t imagine how much fun it is to hear that Head Superintendent in two years is a great when you come to work every day. I’m very fortunate. success story. Course Conditions | issue #49 - Q4 2020 17 The Tuck Tate, Wee One and Northern Fundraiser at Forest Dunes Fundraiser n early spring of 2020, the MiGCSA Board of Directors made I the very tough decision to cancel the traditional Northern Fundraiser at Arcadia Bluffs. This was not an easy decision or one that was made lightly, but it ensured the safety of our members at a time when so much was unknown about COVID- 19. This decision, like many others this year, was used to make something new that otherwise would not have happened. With the Tuck Tate already scheduled for September at Forest Dunes the idea was hatched to try to catch up on some events we had missed. The Wee One was also cancelled in the spring so we decided to do all three in two days. Day one would be on the Loop Black and we would have the Tuck Tate Championship and the Wee One Fundraiser that afternoon with dinner. That would be followed by tee times the next morning on Forest Dunes for the Northern fundraiser with an optional round playing the Loop the other way that afternoon. Our host members Rob Falconer, Loop Superintendent, John Wessels, Our amazing host Superintendents Forest Dunes Superintendent, Kyle Frost & Jeff Campbell, John Wessels and Rob Falconer Assistant Superintendents & Equipment Manager Greg Rau were incredibly helpful in planning this event with many moving parts mixed with COVID restrictions. Also special thanks to PGA Professionals Don Helinski, Director of Operations, Elliott Oscar, Head Golf Professional & Josh Schlump, Assistant Golf Professional. Also thank you to Sandy Micolo, Lodging & Reservations Manager, Dan A. Darling, F&B Manager Operations, Dru Lyle, F&B Manager Culinary, Tyler Watters, Controller, Leslie Sitko, Guest Experience Manager, Tyler Tabor, Guest Experience Manager, Lacy Tate, Reservationist & Mark A. Lutz, Vice President. Forest Dunes hit a home run and the event was fantastic. We will look to continue this event again in late summer 2021, keep you calendar open for Wednesday September 1st and Thursday September 2nd 2021. 18 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association Here are the results from the events. 2020 Tuck Tate Champion - Eric Davey who shot 73 on the Loop Black 2020 Tuck Tate Net Champion - John Gray who shot a net 68 on the Loop Black 1st place in the 2 of 4 net team game was Chad Kuzawa from Bronze Partner Earthworks, Jeff Wanner and John Gray who won the scorecard playoff at 117 over second place team Chris Burnett, Mike Still, Nick Shaw and Shawn Osborne. In 3rd place with a 124 was Al Bathum, Andy Gianino, Drew Paxton and Josh Teitsma. 2020 Low Net Tuck Tate Champion John Grey The proximity prizes were won by Don Underwood, Greg Lovell, and 2020 Tuck Tate Champion Eric Davey Shaun Osborne and Matt Pauli from Silver Partner Standard Golf. The Northern Fundraiser was a scramble format with the team of Lee Collins from Platinum Partner Site One Golf, Matt Pauli, Steve Rebhan and John Fulling shooting 64 and winning the scorecard playoff over the team of Ross Miller, Scott Rettmann, Eric Davey and Jared Milner. Third place was the team of Luke Celia, Shane Conroy, Adam Ikamas and Rob Steger with a score of 68. The proximity prizes were won by Phil Gutowski, Clayton Novak, Bryan Klebba, Jared Milner, Jeff Campbell,and Jesse Shaver. There was one skin winner with an eagle three on hole #7 from the team of Brian Racette, Greg Lovell and Greg Sinner. Special thanks to Dr. Thom Nikolai who came up to run the 50/50 raffle on hole #19 as a thank you from the MSU Turf Team for the support these events generate. The winner of the 50/50 was decided by uploading the names of those who entered and their number of entries into a random name picker online and out of the 925 entries Doug Johanningsmeier was the winner! 2020 Northern Fundraiser Champions Lee Collins, Matt Pauli, Steve Rebhan SUPERINTENDENT — JORDAN CAPLAN AT BELVEDERE GOLF CLUB JORDAN Caplan HOW DID YOU BECOME WHAT PART OF YOUR INVOLVED IN THE GOLF EDUCATION DID YOU USE THE BUSINESS? I worked on the MOST? I use math or “turfgrass grounds crew at Plum Hollow math” every day. Numbers Country Club the summer are everywhere in golf course following my freshman year at maintenance. MSU. tj HOW HAS YOUR JOB AT Jordan Caplan WHEN DID YOU DECIDE YOU YOUR CURRENT COURSE WANTED GOLF TO BE YOUR PROGRESSED? In my first Are you married, if so CAREER? Shortly after my first year at Belvedere I have how long and what is your season at PHCC I realized I enjoyed working with the spouse’s name? enjoyed the work and wanted staff to maintain and make to pursue a degree from MSU. improvements to the course. It’s Married for 7 years, Joe Singles, Adam Garr, and such a cool property with a rich spouse Andrea Caplan John Sabat at Plum let me history. I’m happy to be part of experience a few more things it and looking forward to future Do you have any children? my second season at Plum. seasons. What are their names and ages? WHAT ARE SOME OF THE WHAT ARE YOUR Two girls, Ayla 4 and COURSES YOU HAVE WORKED EXPECTATIONS OF THE Amelia 2 AT? HOW LONG? Plum Hollow MICHIGAN GOLF COURSE Country Club - 2 years SUPERINTENDENTS Where do you live? Eagle Eye Golf Club - 3 years ASSOCIATION? I expect Charlevoix, Ml Myopia Hunt Club - Internship them to continue to be a The Philadelphia Cricket Club- solid resource for those in the Where did you receive 7 years industry. I appreciate their your education? Belvedere Golf Club-1 year ability to bring folks together Michigan State University Age? 34 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association I www.migcsa.org for education, golf, and do and explore year-round in and always broke through comradery. Northern Michigan. dormancy following winter. (J) WHAT IS THE MOST fiB IS THERE RESEARCH WHAT IS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH THE MICHIGAN CHALLENGING PART OF YOUR YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE TURFGRASS FOUNDATION? JOB? We unfortunately have no ACOMPLISHED IN TURFGRASS One of my favorite foundations. control over the weather. MANAGEMENT? I would just The foundation does good work say keep it coming and keep and brings good folks together. WHAT IS THE MOST up the good work. Winter Kill SATISFYING PART OF YOUR research is always valuable to DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU HAVE JOB? When a golfer finishes a us up north. GIVEN BACK TO GOLF? I love round with a smile on their face. jE| WHERE DO YOU SEE providing playing conditions for everyone to enjoy the game. I WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS? also have two up and coming ISSUES FACING GOLF? I I’m only the fourth Belvedere players: I am excited to play think changes in climate will Superintendent since 1925, so I with my daughters. I hope this challenge golf globally. Water hope to stick with the tradition would be considered giving limitations and increase in and serve as long or longer as back. Additionally, I usually weather extremes all threaten my predecessors. Speaking of, “give back” a golf ball or two the maintenance of the retired Superintendent Rick every time I play! course. I foresee warm season Grunch was extremely helpful in grasses reaching farther north the transition period upon my DO YOU HAVE HOBBIES OR eventually. The issue would be arrival. SPECIAL INTERESTS AWAY survival over the winter. Meyer FROM THE GAME? I enjoy Zoysia was an incredible grass spending time with my family. to gain experience managing in There are plenty of things to Philadelphia, great in summer © THINGS 1. I was born in Toronto, Canada. 5 2. I got married in Charlevoix 7 years ago and now work and live here. PEOPLE 3. My only career hole in one was made 2 days before MAY our wedding in Charlevoix at Dunmaglas Golf Course. NOT KNOW 4. My favorite band is Umphrey’s McGee. I have seen ABOUT ME them live 17 times. 5. Don’t let the red hair fool you, I’m not Irish. I’m Swedish and German. Course Conditions | issue #49 - Q4 2020 HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE REMEMBERED 100 YEARS FROM NOW? I would rather just be known in the present as someone who is hardworking and dedicated to both the golf course and my family. WHO HAS INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR TURFGRASS CAREER? Dan Meersman, Director of Grounds at the Philadelphia Cricket Club. To be a part of the team and program he has in place was rewarding. It was a privilege to work with my former PCC colleagues, most of whom are now superintendents throughout the country, and we keep in touch. My first assistant job was at Eagle Eye in East Lansing where Steve Fiorillo and Dave Elliot were great mentors. Lastly, the faculty at MSU was a huge influence while in school and continues to be. WHO HAS INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE? My Family WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE THING YOU’VE LEARNED THAT YOU USE ALL THE TIME? Patience, whether it be training a staff member, troubleshooting an irrigation issue, or anything in between having patience allows you to see the big picture and plan accordingly. It becomes even more important when raising kids! HOW DO YOU RATE THE IMPORTANCE OF A SUPERINTENDENT IN A GOLF OPERATION? Very important, however it takes a strong team including grounds staff, Golf Pro, GM and many more folks to run a successful operation. • WHAT PERCENTAGE OF TIME DO YOU DEVOTE TO NON-AGRONOMIC GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT? Hard to say, it depends on time of year. Maybe 30 to 40%. There is a misconception that all a superintendent does is grow grass. 100% of the time I enjoy the task at hand. WHAT IS YOUR OPINION OF THE ROLE OF AN ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT? A vital member of the team. I have learned from many and grown professionally serving as an assistant superintendent. I respect the position as an Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association | www.migcsa.org WHAT YOU PUT DOWN With three new enhanced efficiency fertilizers and a revolutionary line of carbon-based products, we’re giving you new ways to get the most from every acre. These technologies are engineered for those who want to deliver more, compromise less, and push turf conditions to the next level. SUPERINTENDENT avenue to eventually advance but also think it is a WHAT OPINION DO YOU HAVE OF GREEN great position to make a career out of. SPEEDS IN TODAY’S GAME? I think green speed should be appropriate for the undulations of WHAT IS YOUR OPINION OF THE ROLE OF THE the green. Therefore, I think it is unique to each GOLF COURSE MECHANIC OR TECHNICIAN? facility. Having said that, it is nice to have the Incredibly important, quality of cut is everything ability to speed them up for a tournament. I think and inevitably something always needs to be the smoothness of the surface is just as or more serviced or fixed. We are lucky to have a good important than the speed of the green. mechanic at Belvedere. WHO WOULD BE IN YOUR DREAM FOURSOME? WHAT IS YOUR OPINION OF GOLFERS WALKING My Dad, my late Great Uncle Jerry, and Rickie VERSUS RIDING IN A CART TO PLAY? I support Fowler (with the mustache). For that matter, we whatever the facility offers or requires and would all have mustaches. whatever the golfer decides is right for them to enjoy a round. flFf DO YOU HAVE A HUMOROUS OR INTERESTING STORY YOU CAN SHARE FROM YOUR CAREER? WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST PET PEEVE IN GOLF Would be hard to pick just one, I would say COURSE ETIQUETTE? Sunflower seeds spit out on our job is worth all the effort if you can also putting green! appreciate the humor in it. Prime Source continues to provide ■ FORMULATED the latest in course care products. IN THE USA AZOXYE] AZPROP G FLUMIOXAZIN 51WDG SELECT SELECT' SELECT' HERBICIDE FUNGICIDE FUNGICIDE Dual mode action provides Preventive control of more than 25 Broad-spectrum, long residual pre- broad-spectrum disease control and turfgrass diseases in an easy-to-use and early post-emergent weed control resistance management utility. spreadable granular formulation. in terrestrial and aquatic sites. Contact your local Prime Source distributor or visitprime-sourcellc.com. ©2020 Prime Source, LLC. Select is a trademark of Excelsior Equity, LLC. Always read and follow label use directions. •fy PRIME SOURCE 24 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association I www.migcsa.org FROM NATIONAL F GCSAA Golf Course Superintendents Association of America BY SHANE CONROY AND GCSAA STAFF Registration for the 2021 Golf Industry Show, which will be presented in an interactive, virtual format February 2-4 is now open for GCSAA members and non-members. (CEUs). The Individual All-Access Package is Along with the presenting partners the American available to GCSAA members for $600 ($750 Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) and the for non-members). Additional packages are also Golf Course Builders Association of America (GCBAA), available. GCSAA will allow attendees to connect with peers, industry experts and exhibitors during the three- “We truly have the ability to connect more day show. Aside from world class networking, the industry professionals from all over the world virtual format will also allow attendees to partake in than ever before with the virtual format,” says unparalleled educational opportunities and access golf GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans. “And with the savings facility solutions. on travel costs, it is a tremendous value for every member of the team while still offering Along with the nearly 19,000 GCSAA members, the the high-quality education and innovations the interactive GIS is also tailored to meet the needs of golf GIS is known for.” course owners, operators and managers, and others in the golf industry. Alongside the world class education, more than 450 exhibitors are expected to be a part of the Deviating from the traditional GIS education format, virtual trade show. Attendees will be able to this year’s education lineup will still offer world class watch live demonstrations, communicate with sessions. The 2021 GCSAA Education Conference will company representatives, and take information offer 88 sessions taught in 15-minute, 30-minute or from exhibitors with them in virtual show bags. one-hour formats. Live interaction with educators and Access to the trade show will be available other attendees will be available. The conference lineup during the event and through March 6 for all will also feature focused learning tracks for assistant registrants. superintendents, equipment managers and crew members. The theme of the 2021 GIS — “Your space. Your pace. All in one place.” — not only reflects Providing access for an entire golf course management the ability of participants to attend the show team at one price, GIS facility packages are being from the safety of their homes or offices and offered for the first time. The All-Access Facility consume the content on their own schedules, Package features all 88 education sessions — which but also speaks to the convergence of industry can be viewed during the event or on demand for experts that will be a part of the high-caliber 30 days — the virtual trade show, networking events education lineup in keeping with past GIS and more for $850 for an unlimited number of team events. members at your facility, which can also be extended to course operators, owners, general managers and A preview of the virtual platform and more green committee members. Each GCSAA member at information about the show is now available on the facility will receive 3.0 continuing education points golfindustryshow.com. Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 he third year of the season long Doug Hoeh and Mike Nielsen from the T MiGCSA Match Play Championship Northern bracket versus Michael Brown concluded on September 16th and Tyler Cooper out of the Detroit/Mid at Lansing Country Club hosted by bracket. Hoeh and Nielsen won their final Superintendent Drew Peddie. This year the four match against MiGCSA Vice President championship match came down to the Doug Ware and his partner Skip Connolly team of MiGCSA Secretary/Treasurer Ryan from the Detroit/Mid bracket. Michael Moore and his partner Brett Roberts who Brown and Tyler Cooper defeated MiGCSA advanced from the Detroit/Mid bracket Past President Jay Eccleton, CGCS and beating the team of Jeff Smith and Matt Marc McCoy from the Detroit/Mid bracket Suzio in the final four from the Western in their final four match. This was another bracket versus the team of Jim Bluck and closely contested match played at Bucks Dan Lucas from the Northern bracket who Run Golf Club in Mt. Pleasant hosted by defeated Aaron McMaster and Terry Poley Craig McKinley and MiGCSA Past President out of the other Detroit/Mid bracket. The Jeff Sweet, CGCS. Hoeh and Nielsen won match was closely contested with the 3&2. Complete bracket results are available team of Moore/Roberts one up on #17 tee at migcsa.org. following a win on #16 from a birdie by Jim Bluck. The team of Moore and Roberts won This third year of the Match Play #17 with a par to win 2&1. Championship was again a success. The goal of this event is to promote The consolation bracket came down to a new contacts and networking among match between MiGCSA Board Member the Members of the MiGCSA and to go 26 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association www.migcsa.org T experience new golf courses. In addition to that the spirit of competition was alive and well. Special thanks to our 2020 Industry Partners who made this event possible. Also to our many members who made accommodations for matches at their facilities this year and all 64 members who participated. The 2021 Match Play Championship registration will open in March of 2021. For the 2021 matches all participants must have an Consolation champions Doug Hoeh and Mike Nielsen active USGA approved handicap with Tyler Cooper and Michael Brown to participate. akaMDCKHEH While our 2020 season is nearing its end, we still can provide you with a preliminary proposaffor pond projects for 2021. Our Michigan season is limited so don't delay in getting your pond restoration project on our 2021 seasonal calendar! Please visit our website at www.sedimentremovalsystem.com and fill out our proposal questionnaire for a free preliminary pond restoration proposal and for limited time we are waiving our 'site visit and pond evaluation fee' for MiGCSA members: a savings of up to $500 Removing from a wet well Contact Russ at 844-682-5636 or email srsrusst@gmail.com www.sedimentremovalsystem.com Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 The 2020 BIG EVENT WELCOME FUNDRAISER Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association he 2020 Big Event was hosted by MiGCSA Members Dave Makulski and T.C. Decker at Indianwood Golf & Country Club on Monday October 12th. This event is the last of the three fundraisers the MiGCSA has every year. All of the proceeds from these events go to fund the future of our industry by the way of scholarships, philanthropic causes related to turf and Our host Dave Makulski funding research at Michigan State via donation to the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation (MTF). A very special thank you to our 2020 Premier Fundraiser Sponsors BASF, Bayer, Matt LaFontaine Automotive, Site One Golf, Spartan Distributors and Syngenta. Thank you to our hole sponsors Baker Vehicle, Rhino Seed, Standard Golf, Golf Cars Plus, Trimax, Target Specialty Products, Porous Pave, Harrell’s, Nufarm, Earthworks and J.W. Turf. Complimentary beverage station thanks to Earthworks along with Herman & Associates. There were 6 proximity prizes thanks to the Premier Sponsors. Special thanks to Sue Shockey, Matt Weber and Shane Conroy for hosting the Texas Hold Em’ poker game contest. Mike Sullivan and Kyle Bogey from the Metro Detroit Golfers group were in attendance and spoke to the group about the new GCSAA President John Fulling, CGCS with his new little John bobblehead relationship with the MiGCSA, also as the winners of the poker courtesy of Ron Dahlin, CGCS Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association I www.migcsa.org ONE BIG GROUP CHAT FOR MICHIGAN GOLFERS! game they donated their winning back to the event, thanks fellas! If you do not follow the Metro Detroit Golfers group on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and metrodetroitgolfers.com please go check it out. We are excited to partner with them on many future endeavors. Thank you to PGA Professional Dave Zink, Clubhouse Manager Samantha Strozynski, Executive Chef Johan Vanblerk and the Aldrige Family. Here are the results: Closest to the pins, Jamie Wilson, Mike LaCroix, Gary Thommes and Joe Reilly. Long drive Bob Badovinac and longest putt Black team. Winning Scramble Teams: Mike Sullivan and Kyle Bogey from the Metro Detroit Golfers 1st place - Terry Poley, group were in attendance Maggie Gdula, Jeff Davis & Andy Gilroy 2nd place - Ryan Broth, Archy Hovsepain, Matt Siemiantkowski & Michael Leach 3rd place - Ted Davis, Mike LaCroix, Douglas Ware & Ryan Yoder AH skins were tied, thank you all for your donation! 2020 Big Event Champions Terry Poley, Maggie Gdula, Andy Gilroy & Jeff Davis Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 29 — Bi assn POLYORL Controlled-Release Fertilizer CONTROLLED-RELEASE FERTIL YOU CAN COUNTON. PREDICTABLE DURABLE RELIABLE Using our proprietary POLYGRAPH® POLYON® fertilizer's original reactive POLYON® fertilizer's durable prill software, your Harrell's Golf layers coating process creates a preserves the nutrients within the Specialist can help you dial in just durable, uniform adhesion between substrate and ensures a proper rate the right prescription for your the polymer coating and the heated of release, providing consistent turf's POLYON® controlled-release urea substrate. greening all season long. fertilizer needs. For more information about POLYON® Fertilizer and the POLYON® Guarantee, visit www.harrells.com/polyon or contact your sales representative today! •f Harrell’s U Growing a Better World® significantly less environmental loss ANDY GILROY KIMBERLY ROULEAU and fewer applications required, SEMI Northern Ml you get more with less! agilroy@harrells.com krouleau@harrells.com (586)917-3851 (989) 370-5250 MARC MCCOY Western/Mid Ml mmccoy@harrells.com (616) 902-6196 Harrell’s ProfertiHzer Growing a Better World MIKE RUPP SEMI/NWOH mrupp@harrells.com (419) 764-3422 DOUG JOHANNINGSMEIER Oakland County/SE Ml djohanningsmeier@harrells.com (248) 302-2054 ^•harrelh.eo^ ® www.harrells.com 1800.282.8007 Employee -Owned SNOW MOLD SOLUTION GET TOUGH ON SNOW MOLD. Traction 26/36 One late-season application provides economical snow mold control with improved turf quality and color. Learn how you can grow a better tomorrow. GRAY SNOW MOLD I NUFARM.COM/USTURF/TRACTION NUFARM LEADERSHIP PROGRAM INVESTING IN THE FUTURE FOUNDED BY NUFARM AND GCSAA The EXCEL Leadership Program offers leading-edge development opportunities for ossistant superintendents chosen from mony excellent applicants. arm 020 Nufcarm. Traction™ is a trademark of Nufarm. Grow a better tomorrow 36® isa registered trademark of Cleary Chemical, LLC. INDUSTRY PARTNER - MATTHEW KRAEMER MATTHEW Kraemer HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED IN THE GOLF BUSINESS? My godfather was the Director of Parks for the City of Rochester Hills. They were working with a private group developing Pine Trace Golf Club. He asked me if I wanted to work on a golf course. I started out there push mowing the sod around the green and tee complexes during grow in. I was 15. I really liked the outdoor work, working with the tools and equipment. I worked after school, weekends, every chance I could. Matthew Kraemer WHO WAS YOUR GREATEST INFLUENCE IN PERSONAL LIFE? Growing up it was my mom and dad. From my mom it was patience and from my dad, my work ethic. Now it is my wife and daughter, they How long have you been make me want to be a great husband and father. working in your current position? WHO WAS YOUR GREATEST INFLUENCE IN YOUR PROFESSIONAL I have been with Spartan LIFE? I have had many influences in my career from all the people that I’ve worked with to my peers and salespeople. I believe that Distributors since August of I have learned something from everyone I have encountered over 2019. the years, which is what makes this industry so great. And now with the career change I am learning alot from the entire staff at Are you married, if so Spartan Distributors. how long and what is your ■ CAN YOU SHARE A FUNNY STORY FROM YOUR CAREER? Shortly after spouse’s name? I started at Pine Trace, we had a large pot belly pig loose on the 13 years to Rebecca golf course. Imagine getting that call over the radio. My mechanic Do you have any children? at the time chased it through the woods and watched it while we waited for animal control to come. The animal control officer had What are their names to use a noose to get the pig back to the truck. My assistant said and ages? he has never heard an animal scream that loud. We never heard if Julia, 10 it was a pet that got away or someone just let it go because it got so big. Where did you receive WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING your education? SUPERINTENDENTS TODAY? A common theme in most shops is Bachelor of Science from labor. Lack of it and poor quality. Michigan State University WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS WHEN WORKING WITH THE Age? MICHIGAN GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION? I 48 have always expected the association to provide us with current educational opportunities, which they have done a great job with. I also enjoy the social events that they provide, its always good to step away and interact with your peers. e Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 •R HOW MANY DAYS OF WHAT IS YOUR BEST ADVICE TO take a small crew with me to DECISION MAKERS WHEN DOING go and harvest the sod from THE YEAR ARE YOU ON BUSINESS? I learned a long time the greens at Normandy Oaks. THE ROAD? I would say ago to not buy just based on price. By the time we got back the somewhere between 200-220. Take a look at the value of the crew had the areas prepped With the sales and service role transaction. Service and support and ready to go. We would I am always on the go. go a long way. lay all that sod and roll it the same day. This went on for WHO HAS THE NICEST SHOP <3 WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING 2.5 weeks. We then rolled, YOU CALL ON AND WHY? PART OF BEING IN AN INDUSTRY aerated, and topdressed that There are a lot of nice shops SUPPORT ROLE? Having been sod for 2 more weeks and had out there. a superintendent prior to my it playable for the rest of the ■El WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER current position, I think that I really season. I had a great crew that understand the sense of urgency that year and they really bought THE BEST PRODUCT YOU a superintendent has. I know how in and embraced the process. OFFER AND WHY? Has to be important that irrigation system is to I was proud of them for what the Lynx software. It’s simple them. I like that I can solve an issue we accomplished. and efficient to use. Whether for them and take one thing off of fly WHAT DO YOU ENJOY you are setting up watering, their to-do list. making changes, or adding THE MOST ABOUT YOUR programs its really easy to do. fl WHAT IS YOUR BEST SUCCESS POSITION? I like that I can I did not have a central control STORY? The spring of 2015. We just still get out on the golf course at my course and I am picking had our second bad winter in a row and to be able to go around up Lynx quickly because and lost alot of grass on the greens. In and see people that I only got it is so simple. Add to that 2014 we seeded all of the dead areas to see once a year at MTF. the Lynx Apps and the user and the recovery took pretty much all can water from their phone, ffl DO YOU HAVE SOME TRAVEL season. It wasn’t good for business. In making them more efficient. *‘ TIPS? Don’t drink a lot of 2015 we were able to purchase greens ■R WHAT IS YOUR from the recently closed Normandy water during the day. You never know how long the next ‘ FAVORITE ITEM TO SELL/ Oaks Golf Club to sod all of our dead areas. I would send a crew out to ride will be. DEMONSTRATE? Again it remove 1000-1500 sq. ft. of dead has to be the Lynx software. material in the morning and I would When you show it to a Sitepro Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association | www.migcsa.org INDUSTRY PROFILE user or someone without central control, they can’t believe how easy it is to use. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE GOLF COURSE TO PLAY? I don’t play much so I don’t have a favorite.When I do play, its more about spending time and enjoying the company I am playing with. tjFf IF YOU HAD A DIFFERENT PROFESSION, WHAT WOULD IT BE? I really enjoy working with my hands and tools, something mechanical or building. WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES OR ACTIVITIES AWAY FROM GOLF? I enjoy waterfowl and upland bird hunting, woodworking and tinkering in the garage. (TO WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING OUTSIDE OF WORK? Bike riding with my daughter, watching her play soccer, skiing, family time. o YOUR TRUSTEB. PARTNER From tee to green and beyond, Helena is your full-service turf management partner. Helena offers a wide range of innovative products, including nutritionals, wetting agents, pest control products and more. To achieve the quality you desire, contact your local Helena representative to learn more. Michael Leach Adam Palmatier (517) 257-9263 (616) 340-9557 LeachM@helenaagri.com PalmatierA@helenaagri.com helenaprofessional.com | First five people to respond to this ad will receive a free YETI surprise. Always read and follow label directions. Helena and People...Products...Knowledge... are registered trademarks of ____________________________________ Helena Holding Company. ©2020 Helena Holding Company. HPG0920P Course Conditions ( issue #49 - Q4 2020 35 INDUSTRY PROFILE ff)wHO HAS THE BEST MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT DOG? They are all great. I used to take mine to work everyday. We used to say that if we could come back as anything it would be as a golf course dog. What a great life. THINGS PEOPLE MAY QI HOW MANY CONFERENCES AND EDUCATIONAL NOT KNOW ABOUT ME EVENTS DO YOU ATTEND PER YEAR? 4-6 WHICH ONE IS THE BEST TURF CARE 1. I was a 4-time City of Clawson Fourth of PROFESSIONALS CAN ATTEND? If budget allows July Big Wheel Champion. obviously the GIS, but the MTF Conference continues to impress me. They have done an outstanding job 2 I have never had a broken bone. with the education at that conference. 3 I have never had a cavity. ffj HOW MANY ROUNDS OF GOLF DO YOU PLAY IN A 4 I have visited 37 states and 14 National YEAR? 3-4 Parks. Ql HOW DO YOU THINK THE INDUSTRY WILL BE 5 I backpacked to the bottom of the Grand DIFFERENT IN 10 YEARS? Technology is moving Canyon at 7 years old. so fast right now. I believe that autonomous equipment will play a larger role especially with the way labor is going. I also think that we will begin seeing subsurface irrigation covering larger areas to decrease water usage. 36 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association | www.migcsa.org Strength in Partnership As we reflect on the past year, we express gratitude for our partnerships with MiGCSA members and staff. Your commitment to the industry is valued and appreciated, and your contributions have made a significant difference despite adversity. We look forward to continually strengthening our partnership and to health and prosperity in the new year. Contact your BASF representative: Matt Weber matthew.weber@basf.com 614-512-0718 □-BASF We create chemistry Conditioning: Build ngth All Season Long SUPPLY ENERGY Your turf has just finished a marathon. During the heat of the summer it has consumed all of it’s stored energy. Photosynthesis has been less than ideal, and respiration has throttled up. Use these Turf Fuel plant energy products to fill the tank. Found in Element 6, Vertical, Carbon 21 MAINTAIN COLOR As temperaturs drop chlorophyl production grinds to a halt. Other pigments start to exhibit their colours such as yellow, orange and purple. Everyone wants green. Maintain summer color with products to build chlorophyl or provide JOIN US natural green tones with pigments. AT THE Found in Minors Fuel Kelp, Photo Fuel, Hulk, Green Shield 2021 WDSWAJL golf industry show DRIVE GROWTH Cooler temperatures slow down turf growth FEB 2-4, 2021 by compromising nutrient availability and plant Meet our experts, metabolism. Highly available sources of essential participate in educational nutrients will keep turf growing and recovering presentations, and enter during a busy winter playing season. to win prizes. Found in Quick Green, Base 1X125, Root Down ■S Tur! fuel 57 WO Contact us to learn more I info@target-specialty.com SI-TARGET ▼ SPECIALTY PRODUCTS™ Empowering You to Grow Your Business™ target-specialty.com/gij I f if in O © TSPGCI JAN20 R1 12-14-20 2020 WESTERN GOLF DAY FUNDRAISER ore than 100 MiGCSA Members and friends took M part in the 2020 Western Golf Day Fundraiser at Kalamazoo Country Club on Monday September 28th. This event is the second of the three fundraisers the MiGCSA has every year. All of the proceeds from these events go to fund the future of our industry by the way of scholarships, philanthropic causes related to turf and funding research at Michigan State by way of donation to the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation (MTF). A very special thank you to our 2020 Premier Fundraiser Sponsors BASF, Bayer, Matt LaFontaine Automotive, Site One Golf, Spartan Distributors and Syngenta. Thank you to our hole sponsors Baker Vehicle, Rhino Seed, Standard Golf, Golf Cars Plus, Trimax, Target Specialty Products, Porous Pave, Harrell’s, Nufarm, Earthworks and J.W. Turf. Complimentary beverage station thanks to Earthworks and Herman & Associates. Thank you to our host John Fulling, CGCS, Assistant Superintendent Blaine Burch and Equipment Manager Heath Bronkema. Also special thanks to Susan Fulling, Director of Catering and Banquets, Andrew Tkach, General Manager, Kyle Horton, PGA, Golf Professional and Micahel Mangano Executive Chef. This year we had some very special guests join us, the GCSAA Board of Directors and senior staff including Rhett Evans, GCSAA CEO. With all of the COVID restrictions this year, this event was the first opportunity for the board to meet in person. They participated in the event and held a joint meeting with the MiGCSA board of directors followed by a dinner GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans presents President where John Fulling was presented with his appreciation John Fulling, CGCS with his presidential plaque plaque, he would normally have received at the Golf Industry Show. It was a great opportunity to interact with the national board and thank John for his work on our behalf during this very challenging year. Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 Here are the results: Closest to the pins: Don Underwood, Jared Butler, Matt Chappell and Ryan Osborne Winning Scramble Teams: The joint MiGCSA and GCSAA Board Meeting 1st place (59) - Lee Collins, after the announcement of a scholarship in his name Ryan Osborne, Steve Rebhan and Josh Teitsma 2nd place (60) - Scott O’Neil, Greg Norris, Pete Adkins and Jeff Hopkins 3rd place - Eric Davey, Joe Enciso, Collin Romanick and Marc McCoy Skins: Eagle 2 on hole #7 - John Fulling, Rhett Evans, Rob Steger and Adam Ikamas Eagle 3 on hole #18 - Jeff Bodziak, Ron Dahlin, Colin Yonkers and Don Underwood GCSAA President John Fulling, CGCS addressing the attendees after the announcement of a scholarship in his name GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans addresses the attendees JWXURF John Deere GOLF 8900A PrecisionCut LARGE AREA REEL MOWER A better way for your rough and fairways. JeL Two Michigan Locations 6445 Alden Nash Avenue 7060 Kensington Road Alto, Ml 49302 Brighton, Ml 48116 (616)868-6747 Gold Partner THANK YOU TO MiGCSA’S 2020 INDUSTRY PARTNERS * SUPPORT THE COMPANIES THAT SUPPORT YOUR ASSOCIATION □-BASF Michigan Chapter @GCSAA Platinum Partner We create chemistry BAYER A Spartan x Distributors Fl SiteOne ---------------------------- Golf syngenta HNHMHHHMM BAKER VEHICLE SYSTEMS I !•! Jp Jg Harrell’s Growing a Better World9 jwturf John Deere GOLF MfTARGET |%Nufarm SPECIALTY PRODUCTS “ wwbbwob ■FMC GSreat cience B L, akes ased P TDurf erformance riven HELENA STA/VOAm EOLtz. company EMPLOYEE OW\ED ^ WinField pbi/soRdon coRpoRation Employee-Owned "^^^EarthWorkslW Healthy Turf HI PorousPave Sand ’ A Deeper Respect nus AMEAME ■ DURABLE • FLEXIBLE & Guard PRIMESOURCE fcSZ ©trimaK >turfventures Servicing the USA A dvanced. TURF SOLUTIONS Please Support Those Who Support You FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE INDUSTRY PARTNER PROGRAM PLEASE CONTACT THE MIGCSA AT INFO@MIGCSA.ORG OR (616) 834-0450 .... I 42 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association | www.migcsa.org ------ MC ------ TRUE CHAMPIONS MORE TIME, MORE CONTROL BUILDING A THOUGHTFUL EOP: There is still time! Earn rebates with purchases THEFMC 2020 EARLY ORDER through Feb 15, 2021 RebateLock PROGRAM WAS DEVELOPED WITH YOU IN MIND. How? FMC asked. Given the impact of this year effected each golf course differently, FMC listened to superintendents from across the country on how to best build a ‘thoughtful’ EOP with your needs in mind. With ‘More Time, More Control’ you’ll see: • Low minimum to qualify • Longer payment terms • Extended In-Season Savings • More ways to reach RebateLock Visit FMCTrueChampions.com to enroll or contact your local FMC Market Specialist for more information. EXTENDED SAVINGS LO^i] NEW KIT OFFERINGS T-F ADDED REBATELOCK TIERS RebateLock Always read and follow all label directions, restrictions and precautions for use. Some firoducts may not be registered for sale or use in all states. FMC, the FMC logo, True Champions and RebateLock are trademarks or service marks ofiWcorpdration Or an affiliate. WTorboration All rights reserved. ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT - STEVEN PAGE STEVEN Page HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON A a year and a half before realizing CAREER IN THE GOLF BUSINESS? it was what I wanted to do. I I started at Grand Valley (State remember thinking if there is a University) studying physical career in this I would love to do therapy and even volunteered it. I did it all, all the jobs and still shadowing a therapist. I lived in do a little bit of everything there. an apartment right across from I’ve kind of become an intern the the golf course at Grand Valley last two years because Tom (Leh) Steven Page of (Meadows) and found myself has taught me a lot and given me Canton, a senior at Michigan wishing I was working on the some lessons on the managerial State University with a career golf course instead of doing side of things, too. in turfgrass ahead of him, has physical therapy. I had worked WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE been working at Pheasant on the crew at Pheasant Run PART OF THAT FIRST JOB? The (Golf Club in Canton), but I really Run Golf Club in Canton since crew at Pheasant Run is a bunch didn’t know it could be a career his senior year in high school. until I looked it up online and of retired guys and they are the He is 21 and will graduate started asking questions. Tom coolest most down-to-earth guys Leh (superintendent) at Pheasant you will ever meet. They are great in May with a degree in Run told me he went to Michigan to work with and be around. plant and soil sciences with State. I contacted Dr. Trey Rogers CJ DID YOU DO AN INTERNSHIP? I an emphasis on turfgrass. to talk about the program and He has already accepted then transferred to Michigan State. kind of did a double internship an offer to be an assistant this last summer on Long Island WHAT WAS THE KEY THING YOU (N.Y.). I worked full-time at superintendent at famed LEARNED FROM YOUR FIRST Sebonack Golf Club and then Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in part-time at Shinnecock. John GOLF JOB? I started working at Southampton, N.Y., starting in (Jennings), the super there is one Pheasant Run my senior year of the spring. high school and worked there for of the smartest guys I think I’ve Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association | www.migcsa.org B IF YOU HAD A MULLIGAN ON A problem or advice. I would love to be ever met. I learned a lot this summer - worked a lot and DIFFERENT CAREER CHOICE, one of those people once I have the learned a lot. It was fantastic WHAT WOULD IT BE? No clue. base knowledge to do it. summer. This is my mulligan. I guess • WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST Ej WHAT PIECE OF EQUIPMENT it would be something in the ISSUES FACING ASSISTANT sports world. I’ve always been WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE IN SUPERINTENDENTS TODAY? At this a big sports guy. The truth YOUR ARESENAL FOR GOLF point for me, it is being able to get is I love golf and turfgrass COURSE MANAGEMENT? I think organized and try and learn as much management. I can’t picture my having a reliable sprayer to use as I can from John at Shinnecock while career going any other way. and calibrate is huge. Chemical also learning how to manage the crew o WHAT IS THE CULTURAL applications and keeping those and the workload. right are vital in making sure MANAGEMENT PRACTICE tj| WHAT DO YOU THINK WILL BE THE turf stays healthy. GOLF COURSE COULD NOT DO BEST PART OF YOUR NEW JOB? I think WHO ON THE CREW AT WITHOUT? Aerification and sand top-dressing the greens. having a little more say in what goes PHEASANT RUN MADE YOU Making sure that sand fills the on and having a little more control of LAUGH THE MOST? Bob Moore the decisions that get made. When is the guy. He’s 74, and an Army holes each fall is critical so the you are on a crew you are pretty much vet and he used to drive a semi. grass gets time to heal. being told what to do. I look forward to He is one of the funniest guys being part of decisions. W DO YOU PLAN TO GIVE BACK I’ve ever met. He tells great stories from life, has a great TO YOUR PROFESSION? I’ve WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN sense of humor. His sayings, had so much help, so yes, I 10 YEARS? Hopefully I will be back in really everything that comes would love to help any student or person in the turf industry. Michigan by then with a family and a out of his mouth makes me job as lead or head superintendent. I chuckle. This is a unique industry in that see myself wanting to get back there is always someone to call who will help you with a to Michigan. THINGS PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT ME 1. I am a triplet 2. Before turfgrass management i was a physical therapy major 3. Dream car is a Ford Raptor 4. Lowest golf handicap was a 6.4 5. Love country music 1 Course Conditions i issue #49 - Q4 2020 45 a meeting, he knows the course is in good hands with a good assistant. It gives the super a chance to do some things he couldn’t do if he didn’t have someone else to help manage a crew or make sure tasks get completed. jWwHAT IS YOUR OPINION OF THE MECHANIC? Mechanics are absolutely crucial. I don’t think a golf course operation can function without a mechanic. Accidents happen, machines go down almost daily. Without a mechanic it would be tough to keep the operation going. ■E WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST PET PEEVE CONCERNING GOLF COURSE ETIQUETTE? It has to be people not fixing ball marks on the greens. WHAT ARE YOUR OPINIONS OF GREEN SPEEDS AND THE GAME OF GOLF TODAY? I think green speeds have to be relative to the golf course you are at. If the greens have a lot of undulation you can’t have them running at 14 or 15. It wouldn’t be fair. Green speed is not really an indication of good greens. Uniformity where one green is the same speed as all the other greens, that is what you want. WHO HAS INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST ABOUT TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT? Dr. Rogers at tpJ IF YOU COULD CHANGE ANYTHING ABOUT Michigan State 100 percent. The way he runs the GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT, WHAT WOULD program and how willing he is to help, and how IT BE? I think it is letting people know the much he wants you to learn is amazing. He is like opportunities in the industry for careers. no other professor or advisor I have ever worked Nobody knows about it. I didn’t know of the with. career options until I looked it up. We have to do a better job of getting the word out that WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE THING YOU it is a great career and get more kids into the HAVE LEARNED FROM HIM? I think the biggest industry. thing he has taught me is that when it comes to making a decision about my career it has to be AWAY FROM GOLF, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE my decision, not that of anybody else. He tells SPORT? I love watching football, the NFL and us the world is an open book. You get out of it college football. I also played soccer my whole what you put into it. He tells us to work hard and life so I love watching that, too. I didn’t play to work smart. golf until my senior year in high school when I was done with soccer. Now, I play as much HOW DO YOU RATE THE IMPORTANCE OF golf as I can and that’s quite a bit. Working at a AN ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT’S ROLE? I course helps, and my dad is big golfer. think assistants are vital. It gives someone the superintendent can give tasks to and he doesn’t have to worry about. If he has to drop out for 46 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association www.migcsa.org ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT rjN WHAT TYPE OF HOBBIES DO YOU HAVE AWAY Ffr WHO IS THE GREATEST INFLUENCE IN YOUR PERSONAL FROM GOLF? I like being outside and being LIFE? Both of my parents (Fred and Jeanne). They taught active, shooting hoops with friends, leisure stuff. I me how to be a good person and how to work hard. just like being outside. FV DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE FOOD OR RESTAURANT? I DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE GOLF COURSE? am a big food guy. I love eating. My go-to is sushi. There’s Shinnecock. That course is unlike any other I’ve a great place in Novi called Shiro. That’s where I like to ever played. go. DO YOU HAVE A BUCKET LIST COURSE? Aside Ffi what vehicle would you drive if you had a from Augusta (National), the Pinehurst courses MONEY TREE GROWING IN YOUR YARD? I would drive and the courses at Bandon Dunes. a Ford Raptor. I like trucks and that is a big cool-looking truck. It looks mean. Besides I’m too big for sports cars. ^IwHAT IS YOUR DREAM SCRAMBLE TEAM? Me, Tiger WHAT IS THE FAVORITE CLUB IN YOUR BAG? If my driver is on it is definitely my favorite club Woods, Rory McIlroy and John Daly just because he is in the bag. I hit it pretty good if I get it good. fun. Of course, if I’m ever in a doubtful situation the 60-degree wedge never lets me down. AS THE SUN SETS ON 2020 We want to take a moment to extend our thanks to superintendents for pulling through this tumultuous year in order to keep golf alive. AS ALWAYS, STANDARD GOLF AND OUR DISTRIBUTORS ARE HERE AND READY TO HELP WITH ALL OF YOUR ACCESSORY AND CUSTOM FLAG NEEDS FOR 2021. STANHAm 866.743.9773 StandardGolf.com EOLF COMPANY © 2020 Standard Golf Company. All rights reserved. Setting the Standard in Golf Course Accessories since 1910. EMPLOYEE OWIXIED 1 Course Conditions l issue #49 - Q4 2020 47 Interactive Course Renovation BY COLLIN ROMANICK, SUPERINTENDENT, BLYTHEFIELD CC n mid-September Blythefield CC and the MIGCSA The renovation work at Blythefield started with a I hosted an interactive course renovation tour. The master plan developed by golf course architect Chris idea came about after the renovation tours at Wilczynski. The club adopted this plan and the project Oakland Hills CC filled up quickly due to limited was sent to contractors for bidding. Blythefield had capacity in light of covid. While the renovation a limited time frame for construction and narrowed work at Blythefield was not as extensive as OHCC down the contractors to only those with large enough it still provided an opportunity for fellow industry crews to complete the work quickly. MacCurrach professionals to see what is involved and discuss the Golf Construction was selected based on the quality processes. We had a great group of attendees and of their past projects and ability to commit to the spent a couple of hours on a nice afternoon touring construction time frame. the course hole by hole. 48 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association I www.migcsa.org Tour The scope of work consisted of complete tee reconstruction, rebuilding, moving, and reshaping of all bunkers using the Better Billy Bunker method and Pro Angel sand, fairway realignment and shaping, green expansions, irrigation, greens drainage by Golf Preservations, extensive course wide drainage, and nearly 500 tree removals. During the tour we stopped and discussed examples of each of these items and were able to view completed areas as well as works in progress. Some attendees were interested in just seeing the results while others have renovation plans in the near future at their facilities. We hosted the tour in the hoping that it may help those looking to do work on their course. We hope that being able to openly discuss what went right as well as the challenges faced was beneficial to all who attended. We would like to thank the MIGCSA and Adam Ikamas for organizing this event as well as all those who attended. Thank you also to our industry partners for your sponsorships which allow us to have vents like this and to Marc McCoy from Harrell’s for providing beverages during the tour. Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 49 BAKER VEHICLE SYSTEMS i REPRESENTING the FINEST TURF & INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT since 1940! JACOBSEN I www.bakervehicle.com Follow us on Michigan TURFGRASS A Message From FOUNDATION BY CAREY MITCHELSON, MTF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MTF Education • Research • Extension Founded 1957 ell, hopefully, we are almost there. At this writing, vaccines W seem imminent, MSU basketball has its usual expectations, and the Holidays- although different- are a welcoming chance to reflect, expect and spend time with those... who during difficult chapters... ease our minds. Everyone has a story to tell and there will be some looking back years from now and forget how wearisome it has been. Most of us will not. There are common threads we all share and keeping work, family, and friends all in the correct order can “I can’t improve each of us. To all of you, we wish the best for next year and let these past few months be a lesson in how to never take anything change the for granted. Remember...just when you think things couldn’t get any direction of worse... the wind, but I MSU Virtual Turf School can adjust my With so many items canceled, postponed or replaced the Foundation was pleased our MSU Turf Team and Michigan State University sails to always combined their efforts to provide a Virtual Turf School to our membership and others. Dr. Kevin Frank coordinated the Turf Team reach my with MSU to provide education and credits to many needing both. Thanks to all involved and thank you for filling a void that the MTF destination.” could not provide this year. The vast array of virtual seminars, conferences, schools, and educational sessions provided by many - Jimmy Dean organizations is extensive and our decision not to be among the list of those providing another opportunity was not easy. We thank the many advocates and supporters who understood the difficult times that MSU and the Turf Team are operating under and thank them for their support. The MTF thanks all supporters to this years Turf School: A. John Harvey Golf Course Design, Advanced Turf Solutions, AMVAC Enviornmental Products, Bayer, C.W. Golf Architecture, D&B Landscaping, Earthworks Carbon Based Feritlity, Green Point Consulting, Harrell’s Inc, Helena Agriculture, Herman and Associates, Hills-Forrest-Smith Golf Architecture, Knox Fertilizer Products, Lawn Tech, Michigan Turf Equipment, MiGCSA, MISTMA, MTESP, Nufarm, Pratt Turf Products, Prime Source, SiteOne Landscape Supply, Spartan Distributors, Stine Turf & Snow, Syngenta, Target-Specialty Products, It is not the strongest or the most intelligent who will survive but those who can best manage change. Charles Darwin © Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 1 51 1 Annual Meeting - Election of Board Mr. Craig Moore - Marquette Golf Club, of Directors - Bylaw changes representing: At Large Despite not having our normal gathering of our (seeking second term) Membership at the Annual Conference there are items that will still require attention for proper maintenance of the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation business. Mr. Dan Lucas - Kingsley Club, representing: Northern Michigan Annual Meeting District, (seeking 3rd & final term) The MTF Annual Meeting is typically held during the MTF Conference each winter. This year due to restrictions a virtual Annual Meeting will be held in Mr. Jeff Holmes - Egypt Valley Country January. We are currently working out details on when Club, representing: At Large and how it will be presented. Notice of this meeting will (seeking second term) be mailed to all members in good standing as required in the by-laws. Like many functions that have changed due to Covid-19 some variations can provide progress Mr. Scott Rettmann - Walnut Creek in unexpected ways and the MTF is researching some Country Club, representing: At Large of the positive alterations that have been helpful. If you (seeking second term) have questions regarding your membership status we can be reached by email: miturfgrass@gmail.com or by As of this writing these candidates are running calling 517-392-5003. unopposed. Active Members who are interested in becoming a candidate for the Board of Directors and Election of Board Members fulfil the representative description can contact us at miturfgrass@gmail.com or by phone at 517-392-5003 Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together. By-Law - Changes Marilyn Monroe Thanks to the due diligence of the founders of the MTF and the efforts of the Boards that followed, By-Laws of the Foundation have required very few changes. An important portion of the Annual meeting is the Current conditions limiting in person gatherings and election of Directors to the Board. It is an important meetings due to Covid 19 made apparent the need to process in the operation of the MTF and will be update language related to communicaiton methods fulfilled and completed in a new format. Details will and other items. By law amendments require a vote by be outlined in the same mailing to be sent regarding membership and information on the process will also be the Annual meeting. provided in same mailing regarding the Annual meeting to our members. For the 2021 election there are 4 incumbent Board of Directors will be seeking reelection to their positions. We are fortunate to have a great mix of candidates that represent the entire state in a regional manner. 52 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association | www.migcsa.org Other items to determine whether or not environmental data collected could be used to create a winterkill risk LaFontaine Golf Outing model. Our normal June date for the Lafontaine Golf Outing was Professors update moved to September and we were grateful for all those who were able to attend and those that helped support Despite setbacks, the Hancock Center has the event as well. Proceeds from this event are directed operated with faculty since June and projects to the Graduate Student Assistantship Fund that is now approved are strictly essential research projects. in its 3rd year. This years proceeds were over $7,000 and The MTF thanks the professors for their continued will be invested for future Grad Students. All funding in efforts despite limitations. We anticipate a new this account is invested and provides annual income that season will be a breath of fresh air. combines with the Rieke Graduate Student Assistantship (now held at MSU). The combination of these two sources Membership enables Graduate Assistantships for our Turf Team on Membership renewals for the MTF have an annual basis. Graduate Student funding is a key typically coincided with our fiscal year October component of any University program and the MTF is 1 to September 30 each year. Under our new proud to be a part of this process. membership renewal process, members can select a date for renewal and that anniversary date will Founders Society be used going forward. This allows for budgeting The Founders Society Endowment was established to and updating on a schedule that is best suits provide equipment to help with Turf Research being individuals. Those who chose to keep their usual conducted by MSU and at the Hancock Turf Research Oct 1 date for renewal can do so by renewing at Center. At the November MTF Board meeting, Founders any time when a reminder is sent. Society Chairperson Brad Lazroff presented two proposals both of which were approved by the board. Golf Course and GAM Club Donations Engaging individual clubs and courses to support • Replacement tractor for the Hancock Turf Research the MSU Turf program was a priority for the 2020 Center season. The GAM was prepared to help promote • Soil Temperature Sensors and advance the initiative at the GAM Annual meeting held in May. Like so many others, the The upgrade of the tractor will facilitate use on equipment meeting was canceled and items that seemed being used for research significant at the time became inconsequential. As we all begin to get our feet underneath us A package of sensors were installed at 6 golf courses in and try to return to normalcy, the MTF will again Michigan this fall to monitor environmental conditions begin the process to encourage Individual clubs during winter. The sensors will monitor soil moisture and courses to support the Turf Program at MSU. and temperature at three depths, and soil oxygen and Golf is one of the few industries that can look carbon dioxide at 1 inch depth. Dr. Frank is working with back and thank its stars that even though it had researchers at the University of Minnesota on this project its hardships, it was a welcome place for many 1 Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 53 to visit and relax and in many cases golf thrived. the way created disappointments. John continued to Michigan has been a golf leader at many levels. be upbeat and provided inspiration to all those in the Course conditions is certainly mentioned when golfers GCSAAA and we all admire his leadership role when express their experiences at our various golf venues. needed most. Thank you John for all you have done. We hope that clubs may consider a single donation to Gary Thommes - CGSA — Superintendent at Red the MSI) Turf Program to continue the work that has Run Golf Club for 39 years and an active advocate been accomplished. More information will be provided of the MTF. Gary understood the value of the golf in the upcoming months. course and its importance to the overall financial success to the club. Red Run consistently kept playing Leaderships conditions uniquely paramount for its members and Gary constantly met their expectations. His longevity at a single club is rare occurrence and he was offered Leaders think and talk about the thanks by Red Run membership and golf industry solutions. Followers think and fellows at functions this fall. Congrats to Gary and all talk about the problems. his service to the golf industry. Brian Tracy Doug Johanningmeier — President MTF Serving as a board member on the MTF is a voluntary position Volunteering time to become involved with any that requires a great deal of time and energy if organization is not for everyone. It requires a one desires to. Board Members serve a 3-year term commitment that can at times be burdensome ...and and can be re-elected for 2 additional terms if they the rewards often spaced far apart. However, Michigan choose. After 9 years of participation and hard work is blessed to have many individuals willingly take time seldom does an individual have the ability to commit to separate themselves and make a positive impact to take on the many responsibilities required of a on our industry and those who enjoy the game of board member a second time. Doug Johanningmeier golf. Three unique individuals should be noted in this is that certain individual who devoted more time and difficult year. energy for the improvement of the Foundation for a second time. He was originally elected to the board John Fulling - CGSA — The current GCSAA and served from 1994 to 2003. His second tour of President and a Past President of the MTF and the MTF provided him with his leadership role of the MiGCSA. His other involvements are too vast to list presidency of the MTF ...a position his father Eugene here. At each stage of his efforts, John has left each Johanningmeier held in 1963 & 1964. Doug has served institution in a better place than when he arrived. A as one of the most knowledgeable members of the remarkable leader with relentless energy, John has board for two full terms and of his final term will have gained respect nationwide. Taking the helm of the served on the MTF Board of Directors for 18 years. His GCSAA is a remarkable achievement and he has guidance has been exemplary, and he will be missed. made Michigan proud and we thank him for all he Congratulations to Doug on your efforts with the has accomplished. The unfortunate circumstances of Foundation it has been remarkable. 2020 altered many activities for everyone and along 54 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association I ’www.migcsa.org 2020 GOLF ASSOCIATION OF MICHIGAN SUPERINTENDENT AWARD OF MERIT WINNER Steve Hammon, the golf course superintendent at Traverse City Golf & Country Club has been selected as the 2020 Golf Association of Michigan Superintendent Award of Merit winner. The Superintendent Award of Merit is among a handful of awards normally announced during the GAM Annual Meeting, but that meeting is being held this year in a different format due to the current public health concerns and restrictions. More GAM awards will be announced in the coming days at GAM.org. Hammon is a Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association (MiGCSA) Class A member and past president of the association (2009). He has been the superintendent at Traverse City G&C for 23 years. He joins past recipients of the award; Ted Woehrle, Clem Wolfrom, Fritz McMullen, John Fulling, Jay Eccleton, Steve Cook, Jeff Holmes, Phil Owen and Paul Galligan. Hammon, a Grand Rapids native and graduate of Grand Rapids Community College and Michigan State University’s Turfgrass Management Program, regularly lends his expertise to statewide associations, groups and programs in the industry and is a frequent speaker at regional and national conferences. The membership of Traverse City Country Club held an evening of recognition for Steve to honor him and this award. “Steve has performed well above the call of duty for his entire tenure at TCGCC at both the club and as a volunteer in our industry,” John Fulling, CGCS the superintendent of Kalamazoo Country Club and current GCSAA President said as one of the superintendents who nominated Hammon. “In 2019-2020 he helped the club achieve a highly successful renovation in all areas including, golf course, clubhouse and pool operations. Volunteer efforts for the industry have been and continue to be a top priority for Steve. He is a leader and has logged untold hours on the road serving and giving back to the industry.” Hammon started with Traverse City G&C in 1997 following career stops that included being the superintendent for The Old Course at Indianwood Golf & Country Club in Lake Orion, an assistant at Crystal Downs Country Club in Frankfort and various grounds staff roles at Pebble Beach Golf Links, Cypress Point Club and Riviera Country Club in California and Coral Ridge Country Club in Florida. He did his internship work at PGA West Stadium Course and The Springs Club in California. Hammon, his wife Sue and three sons, Evan, Luke and Elliott, reside in Frankfort. Course Conditions ! issue #49 - Q4 2020 55 Michigan Assistant Superintendent Championship BY KYLE SCHIERLINGER, ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT, FOREST LAKE C.C. s of September 21st, 2020, the A Michigan Assistant Superintendent Championship is officially an annual event! This year, Forest Lake Country Club (Bloomfield Hills, Ml), had the pleasure of hosting Assistant Superintendents from all over the state of Michigan. Following the success of the inaugural 2019 championship at Prestwick Village Golf Club (Highland, Ml), we assistants once again gathered to enjoy playing the game that we toil all season to provide to our members and golfers. Even in a year that has been more- complicated... than others, we still saw an increase in attendance, including both Metro-Detroit locals and some way out of towners. Once again, we drew a great weather day for golf and hope to keep that as a tradition. Not only was this event a welcome escape from everything that is 2020, but it was also truly awesome to be a part of something that felt more like “normal.” The entire event was outdoors and included all the social distancing and masks that are now commonplace, but the conversations and company were more familiar than much of our new day-to- day lives. The format was net best 2 of 4 man teams, a few long drives and closest Our 2020 Assistant Superintendent to the pins, and with prizes and dinner Champion Christian Maher served a-la-grille afterwards. While I had 56 Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association I www.migcsa.org apparently forgotten how to swing a whether it is on the golf course for club that day, everyone else seemed skins or match play, golf or ski trips, to have some great rounds on some catching a sports games, or just challenging greens with a few tricky grabbing drinks after work. In an pins. age of cancelled conferences and events, alternate opportunities like It is always good getting to see, first­ these are increasingly important ways hand, the value of what we provide to grow each of our peer networks. when meticulously preparing our golf These networks will serve us well as courses for play every day. I believe we continue to grow in our careers, that this year has exposed just how helping each of us get to where we important what we do is. Giving our want to go. Thank you to all the time and effort so that others can attendee’s for making it this year and socialize safely in the great outdoors, cheers to many more events like this even in the most uncertain times, is in the future. an awesome privilege and means a lot to many people and their mental Also, a special thank you to my fellow health. Our days can be long and Forest Lake Assistant and grill master- full of never-ending to-do lists but for-the-day, Shannon Storey; Ryan taking time to step back and enjoy Moore (Forest Lake Country Club the game as a player is an important Superintendent) and the Forest Lake perspective to take with you into membership for hosting us; as well your work. I always seem to take as the MiGCSA for providing us with something away each time I host opportunities like this one. someone at my course and getting feedback from others in the industry was especially great. We are looking forward to next year’s championship and there are hopes to expand the opportunities for assistants to network with one another in the coming seasons; Course Conditions I issue #49 - Q4 2020 57 ASSOCIATION UPDATE s we roll into our off season and facetime interactions this year. A here in Michigan, we normally Because of this it can be easy to have our holiday parties after dismiss these virtual options and not Thanksgiving leading to the Christmasregister for them. However, I would break followed quickly by the Michigan implore you to take the bigger picture Turfgrass Conference. In years past into consideration. The usual budget we have had the curling fundraiser in for a GIS trip is around $3,000 give or mid-January then start looking to the take, usually only a small percentage annual Golf Industry Show with the of that benefits your national Michigan gathering on Wednesday association from the registration fees. of that week wrapping up the winter This year the entire facility access for with the Spring Meeting, the best GCSAA Members is $850 or roughly 24 hours in turf that was slated for 30% of the usual budget for the Golf a trip to Northern Michigan in late Industry Show. For the Michigan It is Time February/early March 2021. However, like many things both personally and Turfgrass Conference the budget is usually closer to the $1,000 range. professionally COVID-19 has put a The MTF ususes the proceeds from to Support temporary end to these long-time the conference, again only about 30% traditions and opportunities. or so of the budget gets to them, to Your Not only is this disappointing for all of our members to not have these support the research that goes on at MSU. opportunities to learn and network I am asking you to consider these Industry with their fellow members it will have a significant financial impact on many of the groups who rely on the groups as more than the service they provide and for consideration on how they use the proceeds from these revenue from these events. The GIS is events to help us all by servicing a 3-million-dollar bottom line revenue our industry. When you look at stream for the GCSAA. The MTF your budget for this winter and the usually raises close to $60,000 from educational opportunities take the the Michigan Turfgrass Conference. entire picture into consideration. Be it Thankfully the MiGCSA does not rely is a registration to the virtual GIS or a on events or conferences for revenue donation to the MTF it is time for us as and have the lowest dues of any a community to support our industry GCSAA Chapter with more than 200 and ensure continuity in research and members because of the stalwart member services. I also bet you will support from our Industry Partners, as get more out of it than you think. always I encourage you to take some Be well this winter and we look time this winter to thank your sales forward to a return to our regularly rep for their support, like many things scheduled programming as soon as with your association it only matters if possible. it matters to you. To try to recoup some of these losses and provide their world class education the GCSAA has launched the virtual GIS. I know many of us are suffering virtual fatigue, we have all Adam Ikamas, CGCS had a lifetime worth zoom meetings MiGCSA Executive Director Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association | www.migcsa.org Spartan Distributors TORO Michigan Chapter Mi* GCSAA Gott Course Superintendents Association of America Platinum Partner Lynx® Central Control ■ The Toro Lynx® Control System was developed ■ specifically to help you address the unique I challenges and changing priorities you face ■ every day. With the Lynx® System, you can now I have all of your essential irrigation information I readily available in one place, conveniently I combined into a single, intuitive interface. The patented INFINITY™ Series sprinklers are designed to save you time and money. 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