THE November - December 2004 • Volume 28 Number 6 GREENERSIDE Official Publication of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey THE BALLAMOR GOLF CLUB site of the GCSANJ Championship. GCSANJ Newsletter is published six times a year by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey Doug Vogel, Editor Newsletter Business Staff Doug Vogel 973-696-6495 • FAX 973-696-8086 Greg Nicoll, CGCS 973-762-0914 • FAX 973-762-0612 Contributing Writer Shaun Barry Please address inquiries to: Editor, The Greenerside 49 Knollwood Road, Elmsford, NY 10523 For Ad Placement: Ineke Pierpoint 1-866-GCSANJ1 Art, Typography and Printing by AlphaGraphics, Wayne, NJ 973-692-9090 • FAX 973-692-9032 Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey 49 Knollwood Road Elmsford, New York 10523 1-866-GCSANJ1 • FAX 914-347-3437 Officers: John O’Keefe, CGCS, President Bruce Peeples, CGCS, Vice President James C. McNally, Treasurer Roger Stewart, CGCS, Secretary Ed Mellor, Past President Directors: District 1 Gary Arlio Paul Dotti District 2 Gregory Nicoll, CGCS District 3 Mickey Stachowski Bill Murray District 4 Gregg Armbruster Chris Boyle, CGCS Brian Minemier GCSAA Chapter Delegate James C. McNally Executive Secretary Ineke Pierpoint Commercial Representatives Shaun Barry & Tim Kerwin © 2004 THE GREENERSIDE Opinions expressed in this Newsletter are the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily express the opinions or policies of the GCSANJ Board and its membership. No part of this newsletter may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. From the editor's desk Edelweiss The Highlands region of New Jersey provided a spectacular setting for the Fall educational conference held at the Crystal Springs Resort. The magnificent Crystal Springs clubhouse offered panoramic views of the highest elevations in the state of New Jersey. The golf course - from mountain top to the valley floor both challenged and awed. The spa provided exhilara­ tion and relaxation. You almost expected the Von Trapp Family Singers to parade down the grand staircase. The food was great, the pub was great, the education was superb. There was golf, croquet, tennis, and basketball. Bottom line there was a lot of fun and a good time was had by all. Just like Bobby Thompson, just like Kirk Gibson and just like Bucky Dent the education committee hit a home run that will be talked about for a long, long time. We all look forward to next year. Can anybody say grand slam? Climbing every mountain, The editor and Ken Kubik took to the indoor tennis courts at the Crystal Conference. The quality of tennis was much better than the quality of the photograph. On the cover: The beautiful 1st hole of the Ballamor Golf Club. Inset: Fall coloring on the 3rd hole. Photos courtesy of Mike Miller golf course superintendent. www.gcsanj.org President’s Message John O'Keefe, CGCS, Preakness Hills CC I find it hard to believe that my term as President of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey has come to an end. Seems like just yesterday that I started my term. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as President of GCSANJ over the past two years. It has been a truly meaningful and rewarding experience. I am very proud of the many accomplishments we have achieved over my years serving on the board and as President. I was very fortunate to inherit a strong association from Ed Mellor and the Past Presidents before him. I want to thank Ed for his advice. We all owe Ed many thanks for all his years of dedication and service, thanks Ed. I am happy to say that I am leaving Bruce Peeples a similar association that is financially sound and is dedicated to serving our members. As President I have served with a very dedicated and hard working Board of Directors. This group has do­ nated its time with one goal in mind, to work towards the John O'Keefe, in one of his last acts as president, won the Crystal Conferences most accurate drive when he hit this tee marker dead nuts from 125 yds. out. betterment of GCSANJ and the professional advancement of its members. It has been a pleasure to work with such a quality group of people. Providing education to our membership has become one of our most important goals. The development of the Crystal Springs Conference this year has become a major achieve­ ment. Paul Dotti, Chris Boyle, and their committee did an excellent job organizing and getting this conference off the ground. Those who attended know what a quality program Continues on page 20 RIGGI PAVING, INC. Asphalt and Concrete Construction Paved or Stone Pathways Fully Insured CALL 201-943-3913 What’s Inside From the editor's desk........................................2 President's Message ..........................................3 Todd Raisch named Member of the Year .... 4 Ballamor is a wonderful host for the championship..........................................5 Calendar................................................................. 5 GCSANJ news........................................................ 8 GCSAA news....................................................... 15 Todd Raisch named Member of the Year Once again, the toughest job of the year falls to the Awards committee! It’s a nice problem to have, to recognize a member who has significantly contributed to the GCSANJ. I am proud to say that this award could go to any number of people whose efforts go unnoticed throughout the year. As you can see when looking at the list, it is quite distinguished. This year we are pleased to announce the 2004 GCSANJ Member of the Year is Todd Raisch, certified golf course superintendent of the Ridgewood Country Club in Paramus, New Jersey. Todd graduated from Ohio State with degrees in finance and agronomy. He worked at Worthington Hills CC, Myopia Hunt Club and The Double Eagle Club. Todd became assistant at Ridgewood in 1995 and has been superintendent since November of 1996. Todd has always been willing to take a risk as is evident with his on site trials of an anthracnose study in cooperation with last years DSA winner, Dr Bruce Clarke. His willingness to put in the extra efforts necessary during a study like this brought about excellent real and useful results that every super­ intendent can now refer to. Numerous articles were generated about this study and Todd would always mention himself being a member of the GCSANJ. This past June, Todd once again took a risk being our host for the 2004 GCSANJ Invitational Golf Tournament. The condition of Ridgewood CC was superb and his and his staff’s profes­ sionalism, both on and off the course was evident throughout the day. With our green committee chair­ man, presidents, golf professionals and employers present, Continues on page 19 Ballamor is a wonderful host for the championship Every year we try to complete our GCSANJ monthly meeting schedule with a strong finish at The Championship. This year was no exception because Mike Miller volunteered to host this event. He and Ballamor Golf Club are new members to our association and together they provided a wonderful site for this meeting. Because Ballamor GC is pretty far south in our state, many people knew nothing about the course and that may explain a modest field of 76 players. Mike, however, did receive over 20 complimentary calls from superintendents after the meeting. These folks were asking questions and lavishing praise at the same time because they were truly impressed with everything about the course. Next time I expect we will be turning people away like we did at the Pine Valley meeting in September. Mike almost did not get the chance to play in his own event. Originally he was going to just drive around and greet people (he thought I was going to make him play with Kevin Driscoll so this might explain his decision.). Eventually he realized he could play and meet people at lunch and dinner. This almost changed when there was a 1 1/2 hour frost delay on the day of our event. Mike, Steve Craig and Bob Sciubla reacted quickly and with the usual hard work from their staff everything was ready by lunch and everybody got to play. George McRoberts from Tuckahoe Sand & Gravel showed up for the lunch that he sponsored. This gave us the C C I Course Contractors, Inc. Golf Course Construction & Improvements Dennis Shea Division Manager P.O. Box 158 Mt. Freedom, NJ 07970 800-936-2652 • Cell 973-945-5938 Fax: 973-895-5578 Member GCSAA and NJGCSA Bruce Peeples CGCS (L, thanks Ballamor superintendent Mike Miller for hosting the GCSANJ Championship. opportunity to thank him and John Farrell from Lebanon Turf Products who sponsored the hors d’oeuvres. Between these two fellows in 2004, they gave $2,250 towards our meeting food costs. This says a lot about them and their commitment to our association. Thanks for all of your help gentlemen! Our sponsors also carried over to the golf course as A.T. Sales, Plant Food, Storr Tractor and Wilfred MacDonald donated money for the closest to the pin contests while Plant Food and The Terre Co rewarded the long drives. Chris Boyle (5 ft 11 ins), Jeff Riggs (17 ft 1 in), Phil O’Brien (10 ft 4 ins) and Marie Pompei (9 ft 8 ins) hit it close while Chris (Fran’s son) Owsik and Tim McBrearty hit it long. Continues on page 6 Calendar February 7-12, 2005 GCSAA Golf Industry Show, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida Ballamor is a wonderful host Continued from page 5 In the GCSANJ Foundation long drive contest, Casey Reed (0-12), Clark Weld (13-20) and Lou Bosco (21-43) placed first in their respective divisions but only 5 yards sepa­ rated these 3 shots. This contest was once again sponsored by Rob Finnesey of Tree-Tech Inc. With a donation of $600 each year they are approaching a total of $5,000 with no end in sight to their generosity. Thanks Rob for everything that you do for us. John Alexander came to defend the Sherwood Moore Cup which is awarded to the superintendent who shoots the lowest gross score at The Championship. He did defend with a fine 74 and it also got him 1 st place in the A fight. He was followed by Tom Grimac (78) and Shamus O’Connor (81). The net winners in this flight were Brad Fox (69), Gregg Armbruster (71) and Chris Boyle (71). Tony Funari Sr. shot a net 66 and won the Henry Indyk Cup (not bad for a fellow who is 74 years young). He also placed first in his flight edging out Wendell Beakley (68) and SHEARON GOLF A division of Shearon Environmental Design Company SHEARON Construction / Maintenance Restorations / Renovations Arboriculture Design Drainage Experts Custom Spray Applicators Certified Irrigation Installers 337 Route 31 • Hopewell, NJ 08525 • (609) 466-0666 5160 Militia Hill Road • Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462 • (610) 828-5488 Contact Charlie McGill • www.shearongolf.com John Alexander won the Sherwood Moore Cup in a repeat performance from last years championship. Jack Montecalvo (68). Charlie Dey (75) and Jeremy Daubert (75 plus) completed the winners on the superintendent side. Jim Woods stopped working for a day and shot 79. This gave him the Dr. Paul Sartoretto Cup. Peter Bankrupt’s net 71 earned him 1st place among the affiliates as he managed to defeat Steve Rudich (72) and Kevin Driscoll (73). The District Championship came down to two teams because Districts 1 & 2 did not have enough players to field a team. District 3 won the title back from District 4. Their total of 488 was 8 shots lower then District 4 and sets up a nice challenge for 2005 when it will be held at Essex County GC. Skins were divided into 2 flights and John Alexander was the only double winner and he also had 3 birdies that were canceled. Winning one each we have Jon Barlok, Wendell Beakley, Keith Chapman, Steve Craig, Jim Cross, Dennis DeSanctis Sr., Kevin Driscoll, Tom Grimac, Chris Hermens, Ken Mathis, Dave Pease and Lance Rogers. The final event of the day was the conclusion of The Leslie Cup. Barry and Pease (aka Silas Crowder) were defending champions but they were easily defeated by Jon Continues on page 7 Ballamor is a wonderful host Continued from page 7 RALPH McGILLIAN Excavating Contractor Specializing in Lakes & Ponds Over 35 years experience in building new ponds, en­ larging & redesigning existing ponds. Can get all DEP permits 609-655-2281 PO Box 544,Cranbury, NJ District III won this years District Championship from the efforts of Bill Murray, John Alexander, Harry Harsin, Angelo Petraglia, Peter Van Drumpt and Jim Woods. Ed Casteen and Jon Barlock take possession of the prized Leslie Cup. Barlok and Ed Casteen. The new champs were never behind and always made the shots that were needed. They played as a team and deserved to win this prestigious event. They will be a formidable challenge in 2005 so start practicing if you plan on putting your names on this storied cup. In closing, I really want to thank Mike for volunteer­ ing and for all of the help from everyone at Ballamor. The food was great and Bucky and his staff were really easy to work with. It was a wonderful day and I hope you had a great time meeting everyone because we had a great time meeting you. Adams Earth PROVEN PERFORMANCE WITH Organic Soil Amendment AND Liquid Fertilizers some formulations include: • 0-0-25 w/Sulfur • 12-3-12 50% SRN & Micros *20-3-3 20% SRN & Iron • 18-3-6 50% SRN & Micros • 20-0-0 50% SRN • Sugar Cal 10% PLANT FOOD COMPANY, INC. The Liquid Fertilizer Experts 38 Hightstown-Cranbury Station Rd. • Cranbury, NJ 08512 Toll Free: (800) 562-1291 • Fax: (609) 443-8038 E-Mail: pfc@plantfoodco.com Visit our Website @ www.plantfoodco.com GCSANJ news The Annual C Championship challenges Gambler Ridge GC By Shaun Barry Jim Pelrine is one really great guy. He knows that finding lo­ cations for our monthly meetings has been difficult so he told Jim McNally that he wanted to host a meeting. He wanted July and we gave him October and the C Championship. Unfortunately for both of us the field was very small and it turned out to be a wasted day for his course. They are in busi­ ness to make money and we did not show-up with enough people to fill a shotgun. In spite of this, Jim greeted everyone who did attend and then he spoke with the manager and our bill was adjusted so we wouldn’t lose money. He didn’t have Specializing in sand, stone and soils MITCHELL PRODUCTS □ GC-500 treated topdressing □ TriCure soil surfactant □ Crushed quartzite bunker sand □ Manufactured topsoil / compost □ Crushed stone and rip rap □ Green divot sand and mix □ Green waste compost Complete line: Root zone, tee & divot mixes, dry sands, drainage stone MITCHELL PRODUCTS Millville, NJ 856.327.2005 Fax: S56.327.6881 Email: dmitch67@aol.com The C Cup is passed on from 2003 champion Mark Wittlinger to this years winner Brian Lescrinier. District III Director Bill Murray poses with Phil Pratt and Jen Ringstmeier of the Manasquan River C.C. to do this at all but he did and not just because Boston was on the way to win a World Series (that didn’t hurt though). The bottom line is that we owe him a debt of gratitude and I personally want to say thanks for your kindness. Those that did attend had a really nice day. Brian Lescrinier (78) had the lowest gross score for a C member. He was presented the “C” Cup by Mark Wittlinger who won it last year. Bill McAteer was the winner of the low net for C members with a 67. The low gross and low net winners for non-C members were Bill Murray (73) and Shaun Barry (67). Closest to the pin winners were Bill Murray (9 ft 11 ins), Burke Bishop (24 ft 8 ins) and Larry Cunningham (31 ft). The last par three prize went unclaimed. Bill McAteer Continues on page 9 GCSANJ news Continued from page 8 Bill Baumert, Larry Cunningham, Bill McAteer and Chris Hasbrouck enjoying the Gambler Ridge hospitality. won the “C” member long drive and Shaun Barry won the non-C member long drive. Prizes were donated by Brad Fox (this was his winnings from the Ballamor meeting) and Bayer ES. The skins winners were Bill Murray and Larry Cunnigham with two each and Casey Reed had one The meal was wonderful and almost everyone went for seconds. It was a great way to conclude a fun day and I hope next time we can have a full field. Editors Note: Grass Roots, Lebanon Turf Products, Ralph McGillian, Red Sky, Storr Tractor, Syngenta, Turf Products & Wilfred MacDonald donated money for tee and green signs. Because they did not get enough expo­ sure we will give them another opportunity at a meeting in 2005. Your Total Source For Used Equipment S A L E S.B.I TURF Innovative Equipment & Services Toro Workman 3200 200gl Spray Tank $7,995 Toro Model No. 07200 Hours: 1700 Commercial Equipment Off- Lease Equipment Turf Services Irrigation Supplies S.B.I. Turf has over two million dollars of previ­ ously owned Husqvarna, Polaris, Scag, Jacobsen, Cushman, Ryan, Ransomes, Toro, John Deere and EZ-GO equipment. We offer an extensive parts and irrigation inventory for all equipment sold. Sales. Service. Parts. 1-866-765-8873 Fax: 207-396-5386 Web: www.sbiturf.com GCSANJ news The Infamous lost Sea Oak photos The following photos were taken early this season during the Sea Oaks meeting. They mysteriously surfaced from a dusty bin at the local Costco who assured Shaun Barry they weren’t lost. Host superintendent Rolf Strobel receives the GCSANJ plaque from - that's right Bruce Peeples CGCS. Twenty-five year plaques were given to Alan Beck CGCS of the Linwood C.C. and... Shaun Barry of Bayer Environmental Science by Bruce Peeples CGCS. Congratulations gents! Fran Owsik of the Lakewood C.C. and... Educational speaker Dr. Albrect Koppenhofer of Rutgers University and Bruce Peeples CGCS. Mark Peterson belatedly received the 2003 Dr. Henry Indyk Cup. What happened to the Bruce Peeples cardboard cut out? Toro. Turning fairways into “wow-look-at-that-ways.” The Toro Reelmaster. Year after year, it makes any number of favorable impressions. The optimized cutting unit, alone, has been known to turn heads with its tournament quality cut and clipping dispersion. For others, the beauty lies in its durability, and Toro’s proven support. Either way, the Toro Reelmaster line continues to redefine the game. For a closer look, visit toro.com. ' ©2004 The Toro Company TORO, Count on it. STC Storr Tractor Company Distributors of Commercial Turf Care Equipment 3191 Route 22 ■ Somerville, New Jersey 08876 www.storrtractor.com 908-722-9830 GCSANJ news In Memoriam Harry's retirement party The GCSANJ extends it’s deepest sympathy to Rose and Jack Montecalvo upon the passing of their daughter Adele after a long illness. Adele’s love of golf will be remem­ bered through a fund that will teach underprivileged chil­ dren to play golf. Donations in her memory can be made to: the Adele Montecalvo Scholarship Fund, C/O Jack Montecalvo, 206 Elmtown Blvd., Hammonton, NJ 080371 Member makes music The Wrong, the debut album of GCSANJ member Dennis DeSanctis Jr. was released on December 1, 2004. The tal­ ented singer-songwriter has received excellent reviews for the 6 song CD. Visit www.dennisdesanctis.com to sample some of the songs and learn more about the album. Celebrating 75th Anniversary fisher & son company, inc. Jim Cadott, Glenn Miller, Lance Rogers and Curt Shilling toast their friend Harry Harsin. Your Trees Deserve the Best of Care! The “Green Industry” Supplier SUPERIOR PRODUCTS FOR THE TURF & HORTICULTURAL PROFESSIONAL RANDY RIDER AL PHILLIPS 856-478-6704 302-242-6848 EarthWorks Natural Organic Products www.fisherandson.com All Phases of Tree Care Residential and Commercial BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS SCIENTIFIC TURF CARE SINCE 1907 Local Offices: 973-983-1840 Denville Lebanon 908-735-6619 Ridgewood 201-444-0002 S. Plainfield 732-968-0800 www.bartlett.com GCSANJ news Member helps needy Longtime GCSANJ member Wally Waltsak and members of the Northwest Jersey HOG motorcycle club recently donated 65 turkeys to the St. Vincent DePaul Society for distribu­ tion to needy families in the Red Bank, New Jersey area for Thanksgiving Day. Wally has been spearheading the Turkey Ride for many years with 2004 being the most successful yet. The benevolent bikers look forward to breaking their new record in 2005. Wally (second from right) and the gang push 65 turkeys to the check out counter. Birth announcements Amanda and Josh Kopera are happy to announce the birth of their first child Jack Thomas Kopera. He was bom October 30, 2004 and weighed 8 lbs. 4 oz’s. Proud father Josh is the superintendent of the Maplewood C.C. Jordan Beaudoin is happy to announce the arrival of her little brother Joshua Elliott on November 3,2004 at 8:14 am. He weighed 9 lbs. 13 oz’s. The little butterball arrived just in time for his first Thanksgiving. Jenny and Joe Beaudoin are the proud parents. Joe is the superintendent at the Fairway Mews G.C. in Spring Lake Heights. Oceangro 5-5-0 Organic Granular Fertilizer With 2% Calcium & 2% Iron People you can trust. Quality you can count on. Vasta Farms Premium Bentgrass Sod For Golf Courses • 1107 Courses Landing Road Woodstown NJ 08098 609-685-3818 sa/es 856-299-0274 vo/ce 856-299-6494 fax A Third Generation Farm Joe & Anne Vasta low dust economical low burn potential now offered in blends Produced by The Ocean County Utilities Authority 732-269-4500 ex 8331 www.ocua.com Come Visit Us On-line! www.gcsanj.org “The website has a lot of great links and it’s an easy way to keep in touch with local fellow superintendents.” Brad Sparta, Ballyowen Golf Club Pavelec Bros. Golf Course Construction Co. Professionalism and Excellence in the Construction of New and Renovation Work. ♦ Large and small crews for any size job ♦Rock Walls ♦ Pond Construction / Pond Dredging ♦All equipment necessary ♦ Extensive drainage design ♦Certified Irrigation Contractor Fax: 1-973-667-6599 1-973-667-1643 GCSAA news Tourney times means showtime Editors note - the following article is one of seventeen titles available for reprint from the GCSAA. The articles deal with many hot topic issues frequently discussed around the clubhouse. They are written for the golfer and can be used in club newsletters, as hand outs, or hung on the locker room bulletin board. They can be downloaded from the GCSAA website under “News-articles for reprint”. Presented by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America Whether hosting the U.S. Open or the City Four-Ball Championship, preparing a golf course for a tournament means extra work, stress and probably a few headaches for the golf course superintendent. But it can also be a highly satisfying and rewarding experience, providing him/her with a public stage to display and demonstrate his/her ability to produce the best that the course can offer. Nearly all golf courses host some form of tournament play and superintendents are key players in the process. They oversee infrastructure issues such as traffic flow, parking, course roping and marking, and construction of temporary facilities for concessions, merchandise and scoreboards. If the event draws large crowds and is to be televised, the superintendent becomes the contact for the construction of bleachers and television towers, and cabling for power and telephone. Continues on page 16 TERRE Professional Turfgrass Products Proudly supplying Metropolitan Golf Course Superintendents for over 50 years par ex Lebanon’s Premiere Blended IBDU Fertilizer Dormant feed your turf with ParEx IBDU for strong roots and a consistent Spring green up... The TERRE Co. (973) 473-3393 206 Delawanna Ave., Clifton, NJ 07014 Bio Basics PASTEURIZED PPM 4-2-3 w/2% Ca 50 lb. bags starting @ $390/ton Bulk @ $166/ton (24 tons/load) Silo Program @ $205/ton (21 tons/load) Also Available: Ally 10-1-10 & Ally 13-1-13 (ALLY=PPM + Synthetics) grass roots (973) 361-5943 GCSAA news Continued from page 15 Key points: ♦ Hosting a tournament can be a highly satisfying and rewarding experience, pro­ viding the superintendent with a public stage to display and demonstrate his/her ability to produce the best that the course can offer. ♦ Superintendents oversee infrastructure issues such as traffic flow, parking, course roping and marking, and construction of temporary facilities for concessions, mer­ chandise and scoreboards. ♦ For larger events, the superintendent works closely with the various administrative staffs to deliver desired conditions. ♦ Since about 42 percent of the game of golf occurs on the putting greens, they receive a careful and thorough examina­ tion, including a hard look at any existing weak areas. ♦ Superintendents will inspect the roughs for problem areas that could affect play and spectator safety, like potholes or depres­ sions. Any thin turf areas are over seeded to provide uniform height and density. ♦ The superintendent may implement a watering program that promotes higher stress tolerance and provides a firm play­ ing surface. For larger events, such as those sanctioned by the PGA and LPGA tours, the PGA of America and USGA, the superin­ tendent works closely with the various administrative staffs to deliver desired conditions. Often, the planning for larger tournaments will be years in the making. In recent years, courses hosting major events have undergone renovation or restorations to meet the competitive requirements for today’s professional golfer. These sanctioning organizations will periodically visit a course in advance of a tournament to discuss/review conditions with the superintendent, covering such issues as mowing heights and green speed. Golfers should note that it is almost impossible for a su­ perintendent to match the vision of perfection one sees at the Masters and Augusta National or The Players Championship at the TPC at Sawgrass. They must work with the available Continues on page 17 PARTAC GOLF COURSE TOP-DRESSING AMERICA'S PREMIUM TOP DRESSINGS HEAT TREATED AVAILABLE IN BULK OR BAGS PLUS CONSTRUCTION MIXES FOR GREENS & TEES, WHITE BUNKER SANDS, CART PATH & DIVOT REPAIR MIXES AND MUCH MORE! DISTRIBUTED IN N.l. BY: FARM & GOLF COURSE SUPPLY 215/483-5000 FISHER & SON COMPANY 610/644-3300 GRASS ROOTS TURF PRODUCTS 973/361-5943 TURF PRODUCTS CORPORATION 973/263-1234 PARTAC PEAT CORPORATION KELSEY PARK, GREAT MEADOWS, NEW JERSEY 07838 800-247-2326 / 908-637-4191 GCSAA news Continued from page 16 resources and contend with the weather to provide the best conditions possible for both players and spec­ tators. The level of preparation will vary de­ pending on the size and importance of the event. Preparing for a small, one-day “fun” tournament is obviously less demanding than setting up for the U.S. Open. With that said, here are some stan­ dards that superintendents keep in mind when preparing for a tournament, professional-tele- vised or a member-guest: Tournament preparations usu­ ally begin with a thorough inventory of the golf course and its operational capabilities. A superintendent will evaluate his/her resources, most importantly the main­ tenance staff and equipment, early in the planning process. Each piece of equip­ ment, from shovels to lightweight fairway mowers, is documented. The superintendent’s ability to plan in advance for changes in course architecture, agronomics, budgets, day-to-day operations, encounters with the contractors, and approaching deadlines are ele­ ments that are considered. Since about 42 percent of the game of golf occurs on the put­ ting greens, they receive a careful and Continues on page 18 The Pure Spirit of Golf Broad Vision • Careful Thought • Hand-Crafted Design Our team, led by principal golf course architect Robert McNeil, is a visionary group of professionals with proven creative and technical abilities. Through renovation and new construction, we’ve created exciting courses that remain true to our client’s expectations. It would be a pleasure to collaborate and explore the pure spirit of golf on your next project. (732) 747-1888 • e-mail: design@northeastgolfcompany.com • www.northeastgolfcompany.com ROBERT McNEIL GOLF COURSE ARCHITECT GCSAA news Continued from page 17 thorough examination, including a hard look at any existing weak areas. For elite competition, fairways are relatively tight and firm to maximize ball roll and spin control. Narrowing or widening of fairways, which necessitates a change in mowing height, is done as long in advance of the competition as pos­ sible. Superintendents will inspect the roughs for problem areas that could affect play and spectator safety, like potholes or depressions. Any thin turf areas are over seeded to provide uniform height and density. Bunkers are treated by handwork to firm up perimeters, smooth the surface contours and remove stones and other debris. A superintendent may reduce the amount of fertilizer applied as the tournament draws close to minimize the like­ lihood for an unexpected surge in growth and implement a watering program that promotes higher stress tolerance and provides a firm playing surface. If a superintendent applies too much water, the golf course may appear lush and green, but will play soft and slow. Too little water may improve playing conditions, but the turf will be severely stressed. In addition to the big-ticket, physical features of the facility, several other details must be addressed: marking stakes, flags and flagsticks, pumps, hoses, squeegees, ball washers, towels, benches, water coolers, plywood sheets, sand, soil, woodchips, radios, weather emergencies, security and medical precautions and parking. So when the lights are turned on and the cameras begin to roll, golfers and spectators alike are sure to not be disap­ pointed as the superintendent strives for an Oscar-worthy performance on the big screen. For more information regarding golf course mainte­ nance and etiquette, contact your local superintendent or the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America at 800/472-7878 or www.gcsaa.org. Since 1923 MATERIALS FROM THE EARTH'S CRUST Geo. Schofield Co., Inc. PO BOX 110. BOUND BROOK. NEW JERSEY 08805 • Construction Gravels • Bunker Sands • Construction Sands/Blends • Cart Path Materials • Landscape Materials • Topdressings • SUPRGRO Topsoil ‘STABILIZER Blending Customized blends available with our new mobile blending equipment. ★ U.S.G.A. specification products. ★ (732) 356-0858 Todd Raisch Continued from page 4 Todd was a great example of just how important the golf course superintendent is to the golf industry. A bit closer to home is another reason Todd has been awarded the Member of the Year. A few years ago, thanks to Steve Kopach then golf course superintendent of Mountain Ridge GC, GCSANJ began a web site. It was the beginning of something new and exciting and for all his efforts Steve was named to be our 2001 Member of the Year. This past year, the GCSANJ Board de­ cided to “go to the next level”. A web site to even better serve the needs and wants of the membership was in order and Todd Raisch immediately stood up for the challenge. He attended a number of Board meetings keeping us up to date on his progress and never www.gcsanj.org seemed to let the numerous frustrations of developing a better site get in his way. His efforts, with the help of Greg Nicoll CGCS of Trump National GC, communication committee chairman, have resulted in a web site that can make us all proud. Todd is always on watch and will immediately post anything that anyone would like on the site. He has created numerous links to various organizations, pub­ lications, e-mail address, etc. Board minutes, employment and meeting notices, applications; they are now all available with a few clicks of a mouse. Just recently, Todd was able to work out some Internet bugs and has established Pay Pal as a way to use a credit card securely online to pay for meetings and in the near future order GCSANJ merchandise. Todd always represents GCSANJ in a very positive manner and is very deserving of receiving the 2004 GCSANJ Member of the Year award. PTC PHILADELPHIA TURF COMPANY 4049 Landisville Road, Box 865 Doylestown, PA 18901 Phone: 215-345-7200 Fax: 215-345-8132 Toro Irrigation Heads, Controllers, & Valves Buckner by Storm Brass Products Flowtronex Pump Stations Carson & Ametek Valve Boxes Kennedy & Nibco Valves Wire, Electrical, & Grounding PVC Pipe & Fittings Ductile Iron Fittings Four Salesperson Team Six Support Person Team Annual Service Training Authorized Independent Service Agents On-site Technical Training TORO Count on it. Toro Reel Mowers, Rotary Mowers Sprayers & Spray Technologies Aerification Products Utility Vehicles & Attachments Large Selection of Parts Demonstration Units Nine Salesperson Team Fourteen Serviceperson Team Shop & Road Service Package Programs Leasing Options On-site Service Training Service Seminars & Continuing Education Courses Largest supplier of turf and irrigation equipment in Eastern PA, Southern NJ, and Newcastle County, DE. Equipment & Irrigation, Parts, Sales, Service you can count on. President’s Message Continued from page 3 and conference they developed; a great time was had by all who attended. If you didn’t attend you will be happy to know that the Education Committee is hard at work putting together next year’s program already. During my term as president we changed management companies. Anytime you make a change of this importance it is a lot of work. Rounding up all our files and information from our previous management company and setting up a whole new system with the MGA and Ineke Pierpoint, our Executive Secretary, was a huge task. I want to thank Ineke and Holly Kotiadis, her assistant, for all their hard work and cooperation during our transition. Through their hard work and professionalism our association runs as smoothly as it does. Ineke I personally can’t thank you enough for all your help over the last year. Thank you. The Greenerside has a whole new look since we changed printers this year. Doug Vogel has done a great job generating interesting articles. Doug is always looking for articles and help on his committee. Keep up the good work. The GCSANJ Website has seen a major overhaul this past year due to the dedicated efforts of Todd Raisch. Todd has developed a site we all should be proud of and should use much more. GCSANJ.org is a wealth of information and we are now able to purchase GCSANJ merchandise and register for events online. If you have anything of interest that you would like posted contact Todd at traisch@optonline.net. Finally I would like to thank those who served on com­ mittees, hosted meetings and education events. Without your help and support GCSANJ wouldn’t be what it is today. It has been an honor and a pleasure to have served GCSANJ as President. Thank you for the opportunity. "DryJect Aeration/ Sand Injection is tremendous. There's nothing else like it." Paul B. Latshaw, Superintendent, Muirfield Village Golf Club Let us aerate, amend, and have your greens and tees each ready to play in about an hour. Exclusive patented technology injects amendments into the root zone while shattering compacted layers and aerating 4" and deeper. No cores. No disrupted play. No lost revenue. Superintendents who DryJect do it year after year. It's that good, that effective, and that easy. Seeing is believing. Call today for a free DryJect demonstration. DryJect The only way to aerate, amend and play in 1 hour Chris Collins 610-212-0656 Peter van Drumpt 732-922-4737 www.dryject.com GCSANJ Past President Newton Country Club Telephone: (973) 383-2290 ♦ Fax (973) 383-9650 (973) 383-4817 • Fax (973) 940-0190 John O'Keefe President GCSANJ Mr. O'Keefe and Colleagues, 25 Club Road Newton, New Jersey 07860 My wife Kathleen and I would like to try to thank everyone for their response to the "Member in Need" request generated by yourself and my boss and friend Les Carpenter. As everyone knows we lost everything in a flood as a result of the last hurricane. Family and friends are what get you through tough times. I have been a member of the association for a number of years and have made nothing but friends in this business, It is like belonging to a large extended family. We are back on our feet now but none of that would have been possible without the generosity and help of all of you. All my wife and I can do is thank you again and again, but you can rest assured it is from our hearts. Please pass this message along to this big extended family we call the GCSANJ. Sincerely, Steven Beers Asst. Superintendent Newton Country Club Thank You applauded. Thank you again to all the supporters of GCSANJ. The Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey would like to thank the following sponsors for supporting the continuing education of our membership through events like this year’s Crystal Conference. The vendors ’ support in this endeavor, as well as our past seminars, has been remarkable and needs to be Simplot Partners Cleary Chemical Aquatrols Cutlip Golf Design Aer-Core Inc. Divot Communications UHS Seeton Turf Warehouse Koonz Sprinklers, Inc. Red Sky Assocs., LCC Grass Roots, Inc. Lesco, Inc. Shearon Golf Storr Tractor Company Wilfred MacDonald, Inc. Geo Schofield Co., Inc. E/T Equipment Co., Inc. EZGO Textron DAF Services, Inc. Plant Food Co., Inc. Milliken Turf Products Terre Company Hunter Industries 2004 Patron Directory TUCKAHOE SAND & GRAVEL CO, INC. Golf Course Maintenance & Construction Material, Bunker Sands, Root Zone Mixes,USGA Gravels Lorenzo Romano - Ron Carusi George McRoberts 800-922-7263 Fax: 609-861-3671 TURF PRODUCTS CORPORATION Golf Course Supplier Buddy Rizzio - Ron Lake 973-263-1234 UNITED HORTICULTURAL SUPPLY/VERDICON Grass Seed, Fertilizer, Crop Protection Gerald B. Fountain Cell: 877-697-1199 Ofc: 732-296-8448 WESTCHESTER TURF SUPPLY Golf Course Maintenance Supplies Bob Lippman, Jr. - Dave Lippman 845-621-5067 Fax: 845-621-7180 WILFRED MacDONALD, INC. Turf Equipment / Irrigation Tim Kerwin - Bernie White Steve Kopach 888-831-0891 WM. STOTHOFF CO., INC. Well Drilling, Pumping Systems & Meter Testing/Replacement David Stothoff 908-782-2717 ADVANCED AGRO TECHNOLOGIES/DRYJECT DryJect, Axis, Break-Thru Peter van Drumpt Chris des Garennes Chris Collins 732-922-4743 ALAN G. CRUSE, INC. Golf Course Materials Alan G. Cruse James A. Cruse 973-227-7183 AQUATROLS Manufacturer of Root Zone and Water Management Products Kevin Collins 609-841-2077 BAYER E.S. Shaun M. Barry 732-846-8173 EAST COAST SOD & SEED Bentgrass Sod, Short Cut & Reg. Bluegrass Sod, Tall Fescue Sod, Installation & Turfgrass Seed Kevin Driscoll - 609-760-4099 FERTL-SOIL TURF SUPPLY Golf Course Supplies, Topdressing & Divot Mixes Marty Futyma - Cathy Futyma-Brown 908-322-6132 FINCH SERVICES, INC. John Deere Equipment, Irrigation & Supplies Fred Blaicher - John Barlok 800-875-8873 FISHER & SON CO., INC. Superior Products for the Turf & Horticultural Professional Al Phillips - 856-478-6704 Randy Rider - 302-242-6848 Mike Oleykowski - 609-267-8041 FLORATINE PRODUCTS GROUP Biostimulants, Soil Amendments, Soil Testing Richard Hendrickson 609-714-1151 GOLF CARS, INC. Sales & Service of Golf Car & Utility Vehicles John Czerwinski - Jon Schneider 215-340-0880 GRASS ROOTS, INC. Distributor of Golf Course Maintenance Supplies Ken Kubik - Keith Kubik Jay McKenna 973-361-5943; Fax 973-895-1388 JADA CORP. The Water Experts David Kronman - Barry Kronman 973-762-8002 www. jadacorpnj.com JAMES BARRETT ASSOCIATES, INC. Irrigation Design & Consulting Jim Barrett 973-364-9701 LEBANON TURF Fertilizer Company John Farrell - Dennis Smith 609-404-3143 LEON’S SOD FARMS Sod Diane Leon - Rudy Wedle 908-713-9496 LESCO, INC. Manufacturer & Supplier to the Green Industry Craig Lambert - 800-321-5325 John Fitzgerald - 800-321-5325 John Fenwick - 800-321-5325 METRO TURF SPECIALISTS “Customers, Our Top Priority” Ernie Steinhofer - Dave Conrad Scott Apgar - Gary Rehm 888-217-1039 - 203-748-GOLF metro@metroturfspedalists.com MONTCO PRODUCTS CORPORATION SURFSIDE WETTING AGENTS LIQUID - GRANULAR - PELLETS ZAP! Defoamer Information: Bob Oechsle 215-836-4992 800-401-0411 NATIONAL SEED Grass Seed & Seeding Supplies Ken Griepentrog - George Rosenberg Barry Van Sant 732-247-3100 PARTAC PEAT CORPORATION Premium Top-Dressing & Construction Mixes, Green Sand Divot Mixes, Bunker Sand, Cart Paths, Turf Blankets Jim Kelsey 800-247-2326 908-637-4191 PHILADELPHIA TURF CO. Toro Turf & Irrigation Equipment Thomas Drayer - Mike Hartley 215-345-7200 PLANT FOOD COMPANY, INC. 38 Hightstown-Cranbury Station Road Cranbury, NJ 08512 Ted Platz 609-448-0935 POCONO TURF SUPPLY CO., INC. Distributors of Chemicals, Fertilizers, Seed & Supplies Doug Larson - NJ Sales Cell: 609-335-0106 Fax: 609-646-8528 DPLll@vertizon.net RALPH McGILLAN EXCAVATING Lakes & Ponds - Ralph PO Box 544, Cranberry, NJ 08512 609-655-2281 RIGGI PAVING, INC. Asphalt & Concrete Construction PO Box 2214, Cliffside Park, NJ 07010 Frank J. Riggi, Jr. 201-943-3913 SBI TURF Turf Services & Used Equipment Jen McDonald Courtney Thompson 866-765-8873 SHEARON GOLF Golf Course Design, Construction & Renovation Charlie McGill - Jim Waitkus 609-466-0666 SIMPLOT PARTNERS Suppliers of Fertilizers, Seed, Protectorants and Specialty Products to the Golf Course Industry Fran Berdine - 845-361-4105 Alfie Gardiner - 610-278-6762 800-228-6656 STEPHEN KAY, GOLF ARCHITECTS Golf Course Design Stephen Kay - Doug Smith 609-965-3093 STORR TRACTOR COMPANY Turf and Irrigation Equipment Blair Quin - Rick Krok - Bruce Wild 908-722-9830 SYNGENTA Plant Protectants Lee Kozsey - Bethlehem, PA 215-796-0409 TERRE COMPANY OF NJ Distributor of Pesticides, Fertilizers, Seed and Plant Material Dennis DeSanctis, Jr. - 732-580-5514 Byron Johnson - 201-321-2009 Pat O’Neil 201-321-2007 Bob Schreiner -201-321 -2008 Office - 973-473-3393 THE CARE OF TREES Total Tree Care Services Brian Nadriczny - Mike Cook 201-445-4949 THE NORTHEAST GOLF COMPANY Golf Course Design Robert McNeil, President & GC Architect Traci McNeil, Business Manager 732-747-1888 1st Annual Crystal Conference The entrance to the luxurious Crystal Springs Resort. The magnificent #7 Quarry hole of the Wild Turkey G.C. A packed house receiving knowledge and PDI credits. Distinguished speaker Gary Arlio. Charlie Dey's shot at winning a truck fell way short. Roger Stewart CGCS lofts his tee shot into the valley below. Bruce Peeples CGCS thanks superintendent Mike Paluzzi (L) for hosting the 1 st Annual 4 man team championship held at the Wild Turkey G.C. The Champions! Rich Lane, Paul Dotti, Brad Sparta, and Mark Griff (L to R) get the Crystal. KOONZ Sprinkler Supply, Inc. Supplier of irrigation and turfgrass products to the Golf Course Superintendent For more information call: 973-379-9314 39 Waverly Avenue, P.O. Box 55 Springfield, Nf 07081 Rain Bird