"Green is Beautiful" Ontario Golf Superintendents Association 312, ETOBICOKE, ONTARIO M9C 4V3 TELEPHONE 622-9929 NOVEMBER 1984 O.G.S.A. Past Presidents Robert Moote 1976 John Arends 1971 Allen Jones 1969 ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 1984 PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT PAST PRESIDENT Al Draper Hugh Kirkpatrick Rusty Warkman Greenhills Country Club Westmount Golf & Country Club Oshawa Golf Club DIRECTORS Robert Kennedy Barry Endicott Bill Fach Garden City Golf Club Chinguacousy Country Club Essex Golf & Country Club Gordon Nimmo Scott Dodson Thom Charters Sarnia Golf and Curling Club Chedoke Club Islington Golf Club Shorty Jenkins Gord Witteveen Tom Simpson Bay of Quinte Golf Club Board of Trade Country Club Newcastle Golf Club NEWSLETTER EDITOR Barry Endicott ASSISTANT EDITORS Ron Heesen Neil Acton John Hutchinson November 29 Sanson Day December 1 Christmas Dance — Galt Country Club EVENTS ’84 December 4 Annual Meeting —Wyldewood Golf Club January 8 OGSASymposium 1985 —University of Guelph President's Message As the season draws to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, the membership, for your support throughout the year at meetings and also for the confidence you have shown in me as president. The O.G.S.A. is able to provide services and meetings because of the work performed by your Board of Directors and I hope you will join with me in congratulating them on a job well done. The secretary for the O.G.S.A., Mrs. Jackie Dermott, again this year has been invaluable to the association and has made my job easier. Thank you Jackie. Perhaps the most important thing that I have witnessed is the relationship that develop between superintendents and the knowledge that is exchanged when we get together. After all, that is why this association was formed in 1924. To that end, regionalization has made it possible for more superintendents to get together on a regular basis throughout the province. Again, thank you for the opportunity I had as president this year and I wish all a happy and relaxed winter. Al Draper WEATHER IN REVIEW empty table cell July August September Average Daily Low Temperature 14.7 °C 16 °C 9.4 °C Average Daily High Temperature 25.7 °C 26.9 °C 19.3 °C Mean Temperature 20.2 °C 21.5 °C 14.4 °C Normal Temperature 20.7 °C 20.2 °C 15.5 °C Precipitation rain 25 mm 86 mm 87 mm Environment Canada Toronto International Airport NEW MEMBERS Kelly Barnett — Baldoon Golf Club Class B Jed Matthews — Royal Downs Golf Club Richard Butler— Idylwylde Golf & Country Class B Club Class B John Herman — North Frontenac Golf D and C Sales, Douglas J. Glasson — Club Class B Wixom, Michigan Class E DIRECTOR'S MEETING NEW BUSINESS MISSISSAUGA COUNTRY CLUB Motion - Changing the boundary lines be­ SEPTEMBER 14th, 1984 tween Regions No. 3 and No. 4 Moved by: Thom Charters that the bound­ ary lines between Region No. 3 and No. 4 be changed to Highway 11 (Yonge St.), north to Highway 89, west to 24, north to Col­ lingwood from the existing Highway 12. Seconded by Barry Endicott, voted and pass­ es. The problem with the original boundary di­ visions is that No. 3 has such a large popu­ lation of golf courses and superintendents and Region No. 4 has not. With this re-align- ment, Region No. 4 will be a stronger and more active region. Some of you who attended the April meeting at Beachgrove may remember Mike Edgerton, a Detroit Superintendent, who was President of the Michigan and Border Cities Golf Superintendents Association. Mike impressed us with the eloquent manner in which he ran the meeting. Besides being well spoken, he was a kind person and had an excellent professional reputation. One night, about a month after the meeting, Mike attended a ballgame at Tiger Stadium and on the way home decided to check on the water man at the golf course. While returning from the course he somehow lost control of his pick-up. It overturned and all Mike remembers is waking up in the hospital several hours later. That Mike survived is a miracle but while he was thrown from the vehicle his left arm was severed. Doctors tried to re-attach it but the graft did not take. Mike was in hospital for almost two weeks but is now back at work and in good spirits. He wishes to thank all his friends and acquaintances who sent him cards and letters of encouragement while he was learning to cope with his disability. I met Mike for the second time this season at the Fall Field Day at Michigan State University, and I can attest to his determination to life a full life in spite of his handicap. Good luck, Mike, from all your friends in Ontario. Mike Edgerton with Cordon Witteveen Gordon Witteveen The Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation Tournament August 17 This annual tournament was another huge success this year with over $8000 raised for turfgrass research. 100% of the $75 entry fee goes into the turf research fund which is made possible by the generous donations of prizes, food, barbecuing facility and last but more important of all one of Canada's finest golf courses, the National. A hardy thanks should go to all involved. THE 11th ANNUAL PRESIDENT, CREENSCHAIRMAN, SUPERINTENDENT TOURNAMENT Sunningdale Country Club, Friday, August 3, 1984 Ken Nelson: Host 1stTeam Tillsonburg H. Waterhouse, I Gofton, R. Thurston 109 pts. 2ndTeam Oakdale R. Lorie, S. Gordon, P. Dermott 108 pts. 3rd Team Sunningdale J. Thompson, B. Winter, K. Nelson 107 pts. 4th Team Glendale R. Lampkin, I. Nigro, D. Chapman 106 pts. 5th Team Islington L. Gillespie, F. Irwin, T. Charter 104 pts. 6th Team Bay of Quinte S. Ling, F. Pinder, C. Jenkins 102 pts. 7th Team Mississauga D. Stackhouse, S. Mueller, B. Heron 101 pts. 8th Team Peterborough R. Moss, I. Phillips, R. Bowen 101 pts. 9th Team Markland Wood M. Pogson, E. Nesbit, R. Price 100 pts. 10th Team Galt R. Ditner, K. Banks, P. Scenna 100 pts. 11thTeam Brampton A. Boland, E. Terry, B. McMaster 100 pts. Bob Moote, John Arends and Whitey Jones portraying Al Draper presenting the trophy to the winning team of H. our first President, Greenchairman and Superintendent Waterhouse, I Gofton and Ross Thurston from Tillsonburg Golf of 1924. Club at Sunningdale C.C. Jack Webb, President of the O.G.A. pre­ Sheldone Leonard, Turf Care salesman, ac­ Don McConkey, Green Chairman of The senting Paul Dermott, President of the cepting low gross honors from Paul White at Board of Trade Country Club, donating O.T.R.F., with a check for $6,000. OTRF Tournament. a check of $1,650 to the OTRF (a dollar for every member). Ray Richards playing the final hole of the put­ Alex LaBelle presenting a check on behalf of Norm McCollum accepting a plaque from host ting contest. A course which he designed him­ the GBSA to Paul Dermott, president of the Superintendent Ray Richards for being the self at Base Borden. Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation. guest speaker. Local GBSA Superintendents in attendance. Al Draper, President, Ontario Golf Superin­ Joe Reed, McClumpha Golf Tournament win­ (Top to bottom; Left to right) Ray Richards, tendents Association, presents scholarship to ner accepting trophy from Ron Craig, Turf Base Borden, Kim Hanley, Collingwood, Ed Aldo Bortolon, Niagara Falls at ODH Care, at Glen Eagle Golf Club October 1,1984. Doda, Barrie, Ken Smith, Green Acres, Alex Graduates Spring Convocation. LaBelle, Midland and Neil Acton, Brooklea. GEORGIAN BAY GOLF SUPERINTENDENT'S ROUND-UP '84 By Neil Acton and Alex LaBelle Royal Downs - GBSA Golf Day landscaping Paul has done at Oakdale GBSA - Borden Golf Day The threatening skies on July 17 and more than one of us will be The 1984 GBSA Golf Days wound up didn't deter from the day's events as 25 encouraged to do some clubhouse for the season at Base Borden on Aug. participants gathered at Royal Downs GC beautification of our own. Paul also 28. Host Superintendent, Ray Richards, in Utopia (really!) for the GBSA third golf mentioned the OTRF, its purpose and had the course in fine shape for the event day. Our host for the day was operator/ aims and asked that clubs donate to the and the weather co-operated with a cool superintendent Stu Pickens. Stu had the Foundation based on the formula of 1 shower giving some relief to an otherwise course all spruced up and provided a fine dollar per senior member. close, muggy afternoon. barbequed steak dinner. As some of you Low gross honors went to Sheldon Almost 40 superintendents, assistants, may know, Royal Downs was formerly Leonard again. Sheldon has managed to pros, managers, directors, owners, called Richbrook and was owned by the be low gross in all of our events he has suppliers and guests were on hand for Endicotts. Both Barry Endicott and his entered this season, beating out local the day. OGSA President Al Draper was father, Curly, are still in the golf business. pros in the process. Other salesmen kind enough to make the long trek from Barry is at Chinguacousy (also Green is present for the day included Rae Murray, Lambeth. Quite a contingent of Toronto- Beautiful editor) and Curly owns the Len Huras and Bob Emond. Bob area superintendents also made it up Evergreen GC in Washago, just North of Brewster, CGSA Ontario Director, came including Barry Endicott, Paul Dermott, Orillia. up for the day with Paul and lost a few Kimmo Salonen and Bob Brewster . The Our generous suppliers were on hand dollars to a couple of poor GBSA superin­ CGSA, represented by Bob Brewster, was with prizes as usual. Bob Emond tendents. Bob was last heard leaving the kind enough to give all participants a ball (Nutrite), Bruce Calhoun (Bannerman), course muttering something about on the first tee. Such suppliers as Bob and Len Huras (OTEC) all provided some baiting his handicap prior to venturing Emond (Nutrite), Ron Craig (Turf Care), gifts for the day. into our neck of the woods. In all Len Huras (OTEC), Rae Murray (CIL), and Steve Miller, President of the CGSA, seriousness, we all enjoy the great Ted Hartwell (Hartwell Irrigation) were was our guest speaker and he provided company of our guests. also present along with their donations an entertaining and informative talk which made up the bulk of the prize concerning associations and profession­ table. Bruce Calhoun (Bannerman) had alism. CGSA Secretary-treasurer, Barry Barrie Country Club - given us a donation previously but was Britton, was Steve's co-pilot for the day GBSA Golf Day unable to make it up for the day. and his presence was appreciated by all Another enjoyable day was held by all Following the golf, each golfer except the pros he took money off of. at the Georgian Bay Golf Superinten­ competed in the "Putting Contest" with The putting contest was held under dents golf days, last Tuesday, August 14. the prize being a T.V. donated by Mike skies that we wouldn't let our crews work The host for our second last event was Mayne, Len Huras and OTEC. Barry under. Barry Britton even mentioned that Ed Doda, Superintendent of the Barrie Endicott was the leader in the tent with the cloud formations were capable of Club. Despite problems with his pumps a fine 8 but local pro/owner Rick Allen Tornado activity. We could make light of during this string of hot, dry weather, Ed aced the last hole for a 7 to win the T.V. it at the time but in retrospect, lightning had the course in very good shape and To fully appreciate these scores, one and severe weather deserved much more the 700 tons of sand used to recondition must realize this was quite an elaborate respect that it gets from golfers and the sand traps grabbed many a stray layout with most scores, including my workers alike. Just remember the next golfer. own, approaching the 20's and even 30's. time you buy a lottery ticket, you are Ray deserves a lot of credit for the Golf was followed by a scrumptuous twice as likely to be hit by lightning as roast beef dinner and a very informative thought and imagination he employed in you are to win the main prize. lecture by Mr. Ted Hartwell on the setting up the putting course. intricacies of irrigation sytems and the Since the Borden clubhouse was being Midland - GBSA Golf Day hidden gremlins to be aware of. Ted renovated, the Borden crew had made Alex LaBelle hosted our fourth event donated two very nice prizes; one for arrangements for our social hour, dinner of the season at the beautiful Midland closest to the hole won by Chester and presentations to be held at the Golf Club. Alex has constructed Graham of Midland G. & C.C., and a prize officers' mess. After showers at the numerous traps, tees, cart paths and for low net captured by Nutrite's Bob officers' quarters and a refreshing drink walkways over the last few seasons and Emond. Our stalwart Bob Emond and in the lounge, we sat down to a great the course is better for it. He has done Bruce Calhoun made the prize presenta­ dinner. all of his own design work and has Norm McCollum, superintendent of tion complete with bar-b-que aprons employed some unique ideas on his use the Cambridge Research Station, was our (Nutrite) and golf balls (Bannerman). of railway ties and logs. The only person guest speaker and he followed dinner (Thank you gentlemen!) Unfortunately who uses more ties that I know is Pete with some insights on turfgrass the putting contest could not take place (Tie) Dye. management and research and what the due to failing sunlight. future may have in store for turfgrass Approximately 28 golfers enjoyed the Our final day will be hosted by Ray managers. Our guest speakers this course prior to our dinner and speaker Richards at Borden's Circle Pine Golf & season were all excellent and we greatly presentation. Paul Dermott from Curling Club. We expect a record turn­ appreciate their valuable time. Over the Oakdale was kind enough to come up out and hope to see all of our guest season, we had 6 various speakers who for the day and address our group con­ speakers and supporters in the supply received no compensation or even cerning clubhouse landscaping. We were sector for what will be a very festive expense money. This indicates their great all impressed with the extensive occasion. dedication to our profession. Due to the co-operation of all of our host clubs, we were able to donate $200.00 to the OTRF. Alex LaBelle, GBSA Treasurer, presented OTRF chairman, Paul Dermott, with the cheque following Norm's presentation. As mentioned previously, clubs donate their courses and provide dinners at or below cost. That's how our association made its operational funds as well as prize and presentation monies. Our generous suppliers are also a major benefactor of this successful format. The scores were tabulated for all six golf days and the prizes were awarded as follows: Low Team: Base Borden GC Superintendent Ray Richards Manager Jim Campagna Director Max Mayling (Chairman of the board) Pro Abe Buckle Low Pro: BrookleaGC Russ Howard Low Manager: Borden GC Jim Campagna Low Supplier: Nutrite Bob Emond LowGross Superintendent: Brooklea Neil Acton Low Net Superintendent: Midland Alex LaBelle 2nd Gross Superintendent: Blue Mountain Kim Hanley 2nd NetSuperintendnet: Borden Ray Richards Brooklea Golf Day: LowGross Sheldon Leonard (Turf Care) Slightly Higher Gross: Michael Scherloski (Brooklea) Blue Mountain Golf Day: LG Jim Mallard (Borden) SHG Ray Miller (Midland) Royal Downs Golf Day: LG Martin Price (Blue Mountain) SHG Len Huras (OTEC( Midland Golf Day: LG Claude Latulippe (Borden) SHG Ed Doda(Barrie) Barrie Golf Day: LG Chester Graham (Midland) SHG Ken Smith (Green Acres) Borden Golf Day: LG Al Draper (Greenhills) SHG Jack Austin (Toro Irrigation) Following the presentations to the golfers, a special award was given to Doug Acton who was instrumental in setting this association up. He compiles all of the scores for the season and helps out with the general operations of our group. He has now taken on the title of 'Executive Director' and has offered to continue doing his job next season. Special thanks must also be given to Alex LaBelle and Ray Richards who were a tremendous help throughout the season. THE GREEN SECTION'S STIMPMETER Most Think Friend — Some Think Enemy BY DONALD D. HOOS Former Director, Western Region, USGA Green Section To an archaeologist in the 25th century, this rebuilding was to regain speed and uniformity that extruded aluminimum bar, 36 inches long, with a had diminished with the passage of time. The v-shaped groove extending along its entire length, publicized average speed of greens at the Masters may well be a puzzle. But to us, it's a Stimpmeter! Tournament that year ranged from 11.32 feet to We use it to measure the speed of greens. It has a 11.61 feet, with an average of 11.48 feet. Fast by precisely milled ball-released notch 30 inches from anyone's standards. the tapered end (the end that rests on the ground). Prior to manufacture and release of the It is simple enough. However, this simple device Stimpmeter to member clubs, it was thoroughly has been embroiled in controversy ever since it tested by the Green Section staff and the USGA became available to golf course superintendents, Technical Director. Putting green speeds in 1978. Why the controversy? throughout the United Stated were measured Some opponents feel too much emphasis is being under all kinds of conditions. Measurements were placed on green speed. As an example, one can made at championship sites as well. From all these point to the greatly publicized rebuilding of greens measurements, general ranges for putting green at the Augusta National Golf Club, in Augusta, speed were determined and published as part of Georgia, a few years ago. The objective of the the instruction manual with each Stimpmeter. Unfortunately, most club members never see the Weather conditions also influence putting green Stimpmeter Instruction Manual. What they know speed. Through the year as day length and about putting green speed is what they learn during temperatures change, variations in growth rate telecasts of the U.S. Open and Masters occur. If the growth rate is slow, daily mowing and Tournament. Speeds at these events generally are other practices produce faster speeds than if the in excess of 10 feet. Also not pointed out during grass is growing vigorously. In areas of the country television coverage is that the courses where these subject to high summer temperatures, growth of events are played have worked very carefully over cool-season grasses almost ceases. Bentgrasses a period of several years to have the golf course in become partially dormant. Maintenance practices the very best condition. These are courses with that produce fast putting green speeds can be higher than average maintenance budgets peaking especially dangerous under these conditions. The their greens at incredibly fast speeds for a one-week plant's ability to recover from stress is especially period. reduced; one mistake could result in turfgrass loss But it should be pointed outthatquality of putting that could require the rest of the season to recover. greens is not measured by speed alone. Perhaps as It is of little value to have fast greens on July 4 if important as speed is consistency from green to there are no greens in August. green. The Stimpmeter is a tool that can gauge Comparisons between putting green speeds from consistency, just as a height of cut bar guages one club to another are inevitable. Comparing the mowing height. Smoothness and lack of grain are speed between greens at neighboring clubs has important factors in putting quality and are just as been going on since golf has been played in this important on fast greens as on medium-fast greens. country, and it will continue, with or without the The speed at which greens are to be maintained Stimpmeter. However, rather than compare putting should be a membership decision. If the green speeds, perhaps the comparison should be membership wants fast greens, then they must be in dollars budgeted for putting greens, water, willing to provide budgetary support to reach this pesticides and labor. Perhaps a mathematician goal. could develop a formula to compare putting green To achieve fast greens on a daily basis requires speed and budget and also add in the weather for more maintenance. Fast greens must be mowed good measure. It is the grand total of innumerable more frequently. They must be verticut more agronomic practices that equals good putting frequently. They must be topdressed more fre­ qualities. Don't be blinded by speed alone. quently. Fertilization must be on a light and The Stimpmeter is a tool, plain and simple. It was frequent basis. Watering must be done more invented in the 1930's by Edward S. Stimpson and carefully. Lower mowing heights needed to achieve refined by the USGA Green Section to give the golf fast greens also place the turfgrass plant under more course superintendent a way to measure the stress. A reduced rooting depth can be expected consistency in putting greens on his course. By under lower mowing heights. The shorter roots using the tool on a regular basis, great inequities require more frequent irrigation and syringing in putting green speeds over the course can be during the summer to sustain the turfgrass plant. detected. If great disparity exists, then maintenance Shorter roots also reduce the grass plant's ability practices can be adjusted to even out the variations. to recover from insect and disease attack. An Many superintendents have found the increase in insecticide and fungicide use may be Stimpmeter to be a valuable tool and have made it needed. work for them to make their courses even better. To achieve putting green speeds above 8'6" If you are one of those who consider the generally requires mowing heights below 3/16 inch. Stimpmeter an enemy, I would challenge you to Mowing at these low heights requires additional know your enemy. Learn about the Stimpmeter. time by the mechanic adjusting and setting the Educate your membership about its uses and how putting green mowers. Additional grinding and it works. Make it a tool you can use. Al Radko, backlapping of bedknives and reels will be needed. former National Director of the Green Section, has Again, pressure is placed on the maintenance suggested the following four-step program for use budget because of these practices. of the Stimpmeter: TABLE I. Speeds for Regular Membership Play 8'6" Fast 7'6" Medium-Fast 6'6" Medium 5'6" Medium-Slow 4'6" Slow Speeds for Tournament Play 10'6" Fast 9'6" Medium-Fast 8'6" Medium 7'6" Medium-Slow 6'6" Slow Step 1: that the greens remain consistent throughout. The number tested daily will depend on the number of Following the steps recommended in the mowers used — i.e., if three different mowers are Stimpmeter Instruction Booklet, measure all greens used, then it will be necessary to test one green thoroughly and record the average speed of each mowed by each, etc. If triplex mowers are used, green. By thorough measurement it is meant that then four greens at minimum should be tested daily all areas of each putting green be averaged and (two on the front side and two on the back side). recorded to determine the overall average of every green, including the practice green. At minimum, Step 4: three separate areas of each green should be tested and averaged, except where contours or slopes Once every month, re-test all greens to limit the number of measurements per green. determine whether the average speed continues to be uniformly consistent. Step 2: Variations in speed can do more to negate a player's skill than perhaps any other factor on the If the average speed of any green varies widely golf course. Consistency is the key word — not from the average speed desired, determine the speed. Putting greens kept at speeds over 8'6" as cause and correct this deficiency to bring the a daily average will need extra labor and manpower reading up to the desired average speed. This may because of additional maintenance practices be done by additional mowing at first and if this required. Under extreme weather conditions, there does not correct the deficiency, try altering other is also much greater potential for turfgrass damage management practices on deficient greens. when putting green speeds are maintained above Step 3: the fast range for regular membership play. As with any other tool, I would urge you to use the Once the average speed is attained and the Stimpmeter to your professional advantage. average speeds are consistent (within plus or minus 6 inches among all greens), then it will only be necessary to test three or four greens daily to insure Credit: USGA Golf Handbook OUR GREENS ARE PUTTING GREENS - NOT LANDING AREAS by Neil Acton One of my 'better members' came Greenmaster or Golf Course 6. Golf balls make a difference in into my office the other day and Management, my 'better golfer' and the amount of spin a play can handed me a copy of the July/August his like would most surely dismiss it impart on the ball. Two-piece issue of the USGA Green Section as superintendent propaganda. He balls spin slower than surlyn- Record. The first article, written by will now treat the information as covered balls. William G. Buchanan, is entitled gospel and expound its virtues from 7. Close, frequent mowings on fair­ "Why Don't The Greens Hold". If tee to tee, as its source is not a ways and tees will help the anything had ever been godsent, it superintendents trade magazine but putting greens hold. had to be this article. I had just the prestigious USGA. I am not above 8. Hardness testers for greens will received a lecture on not watering accepting charity. not solve the problem. They only my greens sufficiently by one of my The article is too lengthy to repeat give us more numbers to use (has 'better players'. You know the type. in its entirely but I will directly quote the Stimpmeter made putts for A 5 handicap who plays to a 15, fluffs the summation offered at the end of anyone?) the ball up at every opportunity and his paper. In conclusion, all aspects of golf hits fliers to a green running 10'6". 1. Putting greens can be must be considered with any This fellow expects every green to constructed to grow grass that is problem relating to the golf course. accepty his poorly hit shots as if they best for putting. Large numbers of golfers have been were hit by the likes of a Tom 2. Not all putting greens are created raised on soft putting greens. They Watson. No matter to him problems equal; some may be firmer than have not played on firm putting arising from overwatering. Dam the others. surfaces. Golf courses of the future compaction, disease and what ever 3. Depending on maintenance will be forced into conserving water, else we superintendents invented to practices, some greens will putt and the game will be better for it. make our jobs seem complicated. faster than others. Players who have not played under Just stop his blasted Pinnacles 20" 4. The coefficient of restitution is a firm conditions are in for a treat, from his ball mark (preferably in measure of how much a ball will once they learn to allow for the roll. front). bounce on a green, but not a In golf, the player should adjust his Well, I now have some ammuni­ good factor in determining if the game to course conditions. The tion thanks to Mr. Buchanan and the green will hold. superintendent is employed to USGA, and for this, I am truly 5. Backspin on a ball will make it maintain the grass so it will best suit thankful. Had this article appeared stop quickly, generally on the the play of the game. It is both unfair in Green is Beautiful, the third bounce. and unreasonable for the golfer to expect the superintendent to adjust landing area. Since the Rules of Golf personally agree with the statements the golf course to each individual's do not define a landing area, but they made in the article and I have been game. The handicap system should do define a putting green, my vote reasonably successful in swaying my be used to equalize skill, and the golf goes for the putting green. There­ members and guests to this way of course should provide the test. fore, when asked, "why don't the thinking. This article has made the Richard S. Tufts, a former USGA greens hold?" we might tell them task somewhat easier and I suggest President, said "Play the ball as it lies they are "putting greens", not anyone wanting to read the entire and play the course as you find it." "landing areas". article should contact the USGA at We need more of this philosophy. the following address. USGA Green I know that this is an issue that is Section, golf House, Far Hills, New Golf courses hire superintendents forever being debated amongst Jersey 07931. Subscriptions are $6/ to maintain a putting green or a golfers and superintendents alike. I year US funds for six issues. A TRIP TO THE BEER STORE FAMILIARITY BREEDS CONTEMPT The following is a true story as told by Brooklea GC golf profes­ One might think that this photo was taken in early April sional Russ Howard to the participants of the final golf day of the of a rookie greens cutter left on his own for the first time Georgian Bay Superintendents Association: after being given the proper training in greens mower op­ Saturday, August 25 started out as a normal Saturday at Brooklea. eration, but it was taken in early September of an experi­ We had 4 tournaments booked back to back, we had reserved more gas cars than we owned and the superintendent was off for enced machinery operator. This is a drastic reminder that another weekend. To make matters worse, my accountant, who as turf managers and turf equipment operators, we cannot I try to keep very happy, was in one of these tournaments and as let up at any time of the year when it comes to safety in luck would have it, he had reserved one of the “invisible” gas the workplace. cars. As he is partially disabled, I had to find him a gas car or probably find myself declaring bankruptcy at years end. Since I had no intention of taking my life in my hands and marshal­ ling the course that day, I decided to rent out our ranger car. This particular car is ungoverned and moves out at just under the speed of sound. I figured my responsible accountant would treat this car with respect so I rented it to him. For some unknown reason, he decided to exchange this car with two unsavoury types for a more sedate Yamaha. All seemed to be going well until I heard reports from the course that the marshall car was being flipped over with some regularity. Not having a vehicle left, I jogged out to the 12th tee, confirmed the fact that they managed to keep their beer from spilling when they flipped the car, made sure the car still ran then told them to have a good time. As I jogged away, I stopped within earshot to warn them to take it easy, then sped off with my remaining energy knowing all the while they had the fastest car man has ever seen. I thought everything was fine until the phone rang and my brother inquired as to why our marshall car was at the Brewers Retail, where he is employed. I told him there must be some mistake but he assured me there aren't many lime green golf cars with “MARSHALL” emblazoned all over it in bright yellow letters. Not knowing what to do, I jumped in my car to try to stop these fellows before someone got hurt. The beer store happens to be over 3 miles away with half of it SUPER JOCKS being 4 lane highway. There is also 3 sets of lights to contend Don't forget about Monday hockey at the Downsview with along with 2 malls, various other businesses and the police Arena. station. As I approached the first set of lights, I saw my marshall car coming over the hill in the middle of the passing lane. I turned Season begins October 29 - around to give chase and thought a Steve McQueen style cut-off Contact Thom Charters might intimidate them. I guess Steve was a better driver than me because I lost all control and slid into the ditch as I attempted this impressive manouver. I jumped from my car in time to receive FOR RENT a parting toast from one of the culprits. Good fortune did come TREE SPADE - $10 / hour my way momentarily as an acquaintance happened by and drove Contact David Holmes (519) 669-8333 me to the course but with no sign of the marshall car. Once at the course, I realized this situation required some police attention so I phoned the OPP and asked for a hand in controlling WANT TO PURCHASE some drinking golfers and an errant golf car. The officer said they Two Toro Spartan Fairway Units were indeed interested as they had a report of a car being forced must have single knob bedknife adjustment into a ditch by these characters (I didn't tell him it was my car in the ditch). Contact R. Trainor The police arrived, commandeered a golf car and chased the per- St. Thomas Golf & Country Club pretrators around the course and finally cornered the car and (519) 631-2447 driver minus the passenger. When questioned as to the whereab­ outs of his partner in crime, our inebriated criminal said he had lost him going through the cornfield (what next?). The officer FOR SALE then began to dress this fella down as to the stupidity and danger 1 75 H.P. Darling Pump of the affair when our star quickly retorted how stupid and danger­ ous it is to put a car in the ditch trying to act like a stunt driver, 1 25 H.P. Darling Pump all the while looking directly at me. When he finally remembered Foot valves and electric panels his last name (really), he was charged with liquor other than a Best Offer place of residence. No other charge was laid as he wasn't caught Contact Ron Heesen on the highway by the police. Beach Grove Golf & Country Club I do have the last laugh though as these two jerks forgot their clubs and I've been renting them out at $3.50 a crack to this day. (519) 735-0007 OLD NEWS: BETTER LATE THAN NEVER SOUTHWESTERN ONT. SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOC. By Gord Nimmo On July 12 the Southwestern Ontario Superintendents met at Greenwood Golf Club in Sarnia. Hosts for the day were Ted and Linda Ellis who had the course in excellent shape or at least set up to their own game as Ted and Linda walked away with the low gross prize in the male and female category. Al Draper of Greenhills was second low gross followed by Al Clements of Egremont. Low net for the day went to Kelly Barnett of Baldson Golf Club followed by Jerry Sterling of Bluewater Golf Club. After dinner Al Draper gave an informative talk on sand green construction and topdressing with sand. Much thanks has to go to owners Len and Avril Moore for the great meal. The next meeting will be at the Highland Golf and Country Club in London where Graham Shouldice will be the host on Aug. 16. See you then. 46 Correspondence Students Graduate From Guelph by Penny Clelland One indication of a tighter economy was Congratulating the graduates at the even­ age to Rene Schmidt of Almonte, On­ the number of correspondence students ing banquet, Dr. Clay Switzer, Deputy tario. Brian Sutton, former president, who received diplomas during Spring Minister of Agriculture and former Dean presented an honorary life membership Convocation at the University of Guelph. of Ontario Agriculture College, noted the to Mr. G.C. Duke, G.C. Duke Equipment In addition to their studies, most of the "discipline and initiative" required to be Ltd., accepted by Jim Tanner, for his 46 graduates from the Ontario Diploma successful in independent studies. A generous donations of scholarships since in Horticulture and the Ontario Diploma number of awards and scholarships rec­ 1963. Entries in the first annual ODH in Agriculture programs have full time re­ ognized student achievement. Graduates Association Photography Con­ sponsibilities - jobs, families or both. Bob Cheeseman, Director of Landscape test were displayed. A view of Butchart Independent Study is an Ontario Ministry Ontario, presented Landscape Ontario Gardens in Victoria, B.C., taken by Mike of Agriculture and Food sponsored prog­ awards to graduate Antonio Da Silva, Nihls, formerly with Kitchener Parks, ram offered through the University Oshawa, Peter Viles, Burlington and placed first. The Association also made a School of Part-time Studies and Continu­ James Roberts, Ottawa. The Ontario Golf cash donation to Humber Arboretum, ac­ ing Education. Since 1960 more than Superintendents Association awards cepted by Art Coles, Director. 40,000 adults have studied through Inde­ were presented by President Al Draper Independent Study course packages now pendent Study; over 500 of these have to Aldo Bortolon, Niagara Falls and Mur­ contain printed texts with support mater­ earned diplomas. ray Bissett, Halifax Co., N.S. Daryle Wil­ ials in the form of audio cassettes and son, Glenburnie, Ontario won the first colour slides on microfiche or filmstrips. With its mixture of scientific and practical Toronto Trust Cemeteries Scholarship, In his address Division Chairman Ted information, the diploma program is presented by General Manager, Bob McNinch announced an intention to add unique in Canada. Adults from all back­ Smith. Stuart Clendenning, Toronto a video component to the study package. grounds and age groups have common Parks, presented the Vera Bezeredy The first course to be augmented with goals - to gain new information or en­ award for the woman with the highest video will be the popular Qualified Plan- hance what they already know about the standing in any year to Enid Grant, To­ tsman. Video tapes will be available at green industry or agriculture. Employers ronto. libraries and educational centres recognize the value of an ODH and ODA throughout Ontario and to individuals. and often base promotion and hiring de­ The ODH Graduates Association sup­ Student will be able to watch the steps cisions upon them. A cross-section of ports the diploma program in a number in growing a healthy tree, planting a gar­ 1984 graduates reveals an average age of of ways. President Mike Mahaffey pre­ den or designing a backyard. In this way 32 and residence across Canada, with one sented the Association award for new technology will enrich the distant ODH from Ohio. graduates with the highest overall aver­ learners' study experience. SUNPARLOUR BRIEFS October 3, 1984 by Ron Heesen Canadian goes south; Randy Hooper, long time Superin­ equipment demonstration. The weather was slightly on tendent of Roseland Golf and Curling Club in Windsor has the cool side, but a fine day for golf. There were many moved to Florida. Randy is taking over from his father as equipment exhibitors in attendance and their work was Supertindent of the CC of Coral Springs. Coral Springs is greatly appreciated in making this a fine day. A special located just north of Ft. Lauderdale. We all wish Randy thanks to John Picard for having this meeting. His course well in his future endeavours and hope to see him at the was in excellent shape and John was a great host. National Conference. Pat Hebert, Randy's Assistant at Roseland has taken over as Superintendent. We would Well, its time to review budgets, prepare the course for also like to wish Pat continued success in the future. winter and reflect on our practices of the season past. Hopefully, along the way, we will also spend some time Maple City Meeting, Chatham; On September 27th region with our families. Its been an excellent year for growing 1 Superintendents held their last meeting of the year. The turf in South-Western Ontario and we're all hoping the meeting was at Maple City and featured golf as well as an winter proves to be just as kind. O.G.S.A. Christmas Party Galt Country Club Saturday December 1 Host: Paul and Dianne Scenna "Green is Beautiful" Ontario Golf Superintendents Association