ISSUE 3: 2017/ VOLUME 43 THEGREENERSIDE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION OF NEW JERSEY ANNUAL MEETING HOST Monday, November 6, 2017 Travis Pauley, Superintendent Plainfield Country Club Edison, New Jersey GCSANJ PHOTO CONTEST http://q-r.to/bamIt5 ONCE HOME TO J. SEWARD JOHNSON, THE MANSION BEHIND THIS ORNATE GATE IS NOW THE CLUBHOUSE TO WHAT NEW JERSEY GOLF COURSE? IF YOU KNOW THE ANSWER, SCAN THE QR CODE AND SUBMIT YOUR REPLOY. THE FIRST 10 CORRECT RESPONSES WILL RECEIVE A LOGOED PIECE OF GCSNAJ APPAREL CORRECT ANSWER TO THE SUMMER ISSUE PHOTO CONTEST- ATLANTIC CITY COUNTRY CLUB WINNERS INCLUDE: JIM BARRETT, ANDREW SHAULD, LOU BOSCO, DIANE ELWOOD, GARY WOOD, JOSH KOPERA, KEN KUBIK, NAT SPENCE, NICK ALLEY, SCOTT BOSETTI E U S S I I S H T N I President’s Message From Your Executive Director: Hmmm.. What Can I Say? Calendar of Events Free GHIN#s District 3 Meeting - Jumping Brook Country Club GCSANJ Through the Decades - Part Four - Ken Kubik Districts 1 & 2 - Rolling Greens Golf Club Hurricane Irma Affects Longtime Member 5 6 6 7 8 9 12 13 15 My Office - Tim Connolly, CGCS 17 20 21 28 35 40 44 45 47 Chapter Championship - Arcola Country Club Member News US Women’s Open, Trump National Bedminster The Forgotten Burial Ground, Doug Johnstone President’s Cup - Liberty National Golf Club What Vendors Wished Superintendents Understood Foundation Scholarship Winners District 4 - Burlington Country Club Patron Directory WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Is Your Assistant a Member Yet? Get them more involved. For only $75, make an investment in their professional career. Download the membership app at Evan Slutsky, Class C gcsanj.org. Tim Gerzabek, Class AF Navesink Country Club Remy Gunn, Class C The Bedens Brook Club Michael Gurcsik, Class C The Bedens Brook Club Coltrich Graba, Class B Baltusrol Golf Club Jeff Reggio, Class C Baltusrol Golf Club James Devaney, Class A Baltusrol Golf Club Helena Chemical Compay Michael Hrbek, Class C Navesink Country Club Tim Pleskach, Class C Wild Turkey Golf Club Dan Sieja, Class AF Winfield United Robert Donofrio, Class AF Twin Brook GolfCours/Driving Center Ron Montgomery, Class C Stone Harbor Golf Club William Keyser, Class C Spring Brook Country Club 3 4 E M U L O V / 7 1 0 2 : 3 E U S S I • I E D S R E N E E R G E H T visit us online at: gcsanj.org New Jersey Chapter GCSAA GCSANJ Newsletter is published four times a year by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey Todd Raisch, CGCS, Editor Shaun Barry, Contributing Writer & Photographer Lance Rogers, Graphics Editor Please address inquiries to: Editor, The Greenerside 25 US Hwy 46 West, Wayne, New Jersey 07470 Layout, Design, Ad Placement: Cece Peabody, Executive Director 973-812-0710 Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey 25 US Highway 46 West Wayne, New Jersey 07470 PH: 973-812-0710 • FAX 973-812-6529 Officers: Russell Harris, President Les Carpenter, Jr, CGCS, Vice President Jeremy Hreben, Secretary Joe Kinlin, Treasurer Gary Arlio, Past President Directors: District I - Tyler Otero District II - Jamie Devers District III - Tom Higgins District IV- Mike Tardogno At-Large Todd Raisch, CGCS • Matt Castagna • Lance Rogers, CGCS • Anthony Hooks Rutgers Liaisons Dr. Bruce Clarke • Dr. James Murphy GCSAA Chapter Delegate Bill Murray Executive Director Cece Peabody, MA.T, C.M.P. Commercial Representatives Rob Johnson & Brian Gjelsvik Photos Inside This Issue Courtesy of Shaun Barry Cover Photo Courtesy of Larry Lambrecht: Plainfield Country Club http://www.gcsanj.org VISIT OUR WEBSITE: gcsanj.org © 2017 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. PRESIDENTS MESSAGE Russell Harris, Galloping Hill Golf Course when I say this, at the end of the day I truly be­ lieve the Association is on its way to accomplish­ ing great things. The strong foundation that’s been laid over the last 11 years by the Associa­ tion will serve us greatly as we build upon those successes. A lot of credit to where we are now must be given to Cece Peabody and her team. Without her guidance over the last 11 years we would not be in the position we are today. So, in closing, please remember that I, as your president, and the board of directors have noth­ ing in mind but making the GCSANJ into regional and national leaders amongst our industry asso­ ciations. Bold, I know, but attainable nonetheless. Russell Harris Russell Harris GCSANJ PRESIDENT Sitting here as the calendar has turned to October, and hopefully the close of the season, has me think­ ing about something I was taught at turf school. The teacher, who happens to be one of the most respected superintendents among us, had taught us many things, but one thing sticks out more than all the others. I’ve used this lesson every year of my life since then, both professionally and personally. These words have never rang truer than they do today. “Stop doing something you’ve been doing. Do something you’ve never done before. Finally, change something you’re doing.” I’m not entirely sure that’s quoted verbatim or not, but the senti­ ment is. As with anything we do in our lives and careers, change is never easy, but it is sometimes necessary. There are times in life when difficult decisions need to be made for future success. These decisions will not always be popular, and not always a success. But the people who are put in the place to make these tough decisions cannot afford to be short sighted when thinking about the future. All decisions come with con­ sequence and applause, sometimes good, some­ times bad. As most of you know by now, the GCSANJ has decided to take our association in a different di­ rection in relation to our management. We as a board, after much debate and strategic long-term planning, felt the time was now to move in that direction. Personally, this was not easy for me. I’ve developed a strong relationship with current management over the last 8 years that I’ve been involved with the Association. As I said before, these are TOUGH decisions. But believe me FROM YOUR EXEC DIRECTOR Cece Peabody MAT., C.M.P., Executive Director Hmmm... What Can I Say? What can I say? The NJ Chapter and your association manage­ ment company, The Peabody Group/Executive Director Cece Peabody, will be amicably parting ways come April 2018. I am not retiring, so that rumor is false. News of change may never be easy, but one has to accept decisions. I’m sure the new direc­ tion the chapter takes will be a positive one. Since 2007. I have truly enjoyed learning why you love the jobs you do, and do well. With each board of directors, I’ve listened, advised, been inspired, implemented, been energized, created, and invested valued time on programs, financials, investments, and creative design -- I love doing the job I was hired to do. I’ve worked closely with many presidents and board members, as well as neighboring associ­ ation executives. Being the Executive Director of GCSANJ has had a meaningful and positive impact on me. I will continue to engage the chapter members now and even after April 2018. You will see me on the golf course and as the Executive Director of the New Jersey Turfgrass Association. Events and the Green Expo cross over both associations as we both support the turf­ grass industry and Rutgers. Thank each of you for taking your time to reach out to me and share your feelings about this change, and know that I value your outreach. I will be as involved as I usually am until the actual changeover happens. Thank you for sharing this ‘chapter’ of our lives together and best of luck to each of you in the future. My heartfelt thanks for sharing your professional lives for the last eleven years. As of this writing, the process of finding a replacement manage­ ment company is still fluid, but I’m sure you’ll know as soon as the board decides. Extend your welcome. it’s the right thing to do. So... What Can You Do for Your Chapter? The first thing you can do is renew your membership. Jump in and join a committee. You need to step up and give your time, your energy, and your ideas to shape the direction of this chapter. Secondly, attend events... as many as you can. The golf and events commitee looks for new courses to host events. is this something you can offer? Thirdly, write an article for the Greenerside. Share something new at your course, tell us something outside of your job that you enjoy doing, send us pictures of your course, your dog, a few jokes.... we’d be happy to share. Finally, be a joiner, not a complainer. No one person is perfect, no one association is perfect... but you can make a difference by sharing your talents. 2017 CALENDAR Check calendar for updates and signup info. October 23, 2017 • Monday Class C “Battle of the Bridges” Paramount Country Club New City, New York October 23-24, 2017 • Mon/Tues CanAM Cup Baltusrol Golf Club & Canoe Brook Country Club November 6, 2017 • Monday ANNUAL MEETING & GOLF Plainfield County Club Edison, New Jersey December 5-7, 2017 • Tues - Thurs Green Expo Turf & Landscape Conference Borgata Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, New Jersey search:GCSANJ @GCSANJ1926 @gcsanjl926 (NJSUPER) www.gcsanj.org Visit gcsanj.org for Details and Registration forms GHIN a USGA Service GET YOUR GCSANJ GHIN # TODAY! (Or move your GHIN # to GCSANJ) NEW MEMBER BENEFIT! Get your GHIN number at no cost to you. GCSANJ is offering our members complimentary GHIN numbers through the NJSGA (New Jersey State Golf Association) Our GCSANJ chapter has just been established as an official Club with the NJSGA. If you already have a GHIN #, send the GCSANJ office your GHIN #, and we will enter you into our Club. If you have NEVER had a GHIN #, get one by sending the office: Your Name (First, Last, Middle), Address, City, State, Zip GHINa USGA Service You Worry About the Greens, Let Us Worry About the Blue! Black Lagoon features complete Otterbine Fountain Sales & Service inducing: • Otterbine Factory Trained Fountain Service Technicians • Award Winning Fountain Service Center • Fountain Installation & Removal • Field Troubleshooting • Fountain Winterization, Storage & Maintenance To learn more call us at 1-888-243-0891 or visit our website at www.blacklagoon.us for all your Otterbine needs. Serving New Jersey, Eastern PA, Delaware & Maryland Otterbine AERATING FOUNTAINS OFFERING BOTH FUNCTION AND BEAUTY these surface spray aerators are engineered to provide results, and are supported by a 5-year warranty and Pattern Guarantee. Widely used throughout the world, Otterbine’s Aerating Fountains improve and maintain water quality in ponds and lakes by controlling algae and eliminating odors while providing attractive fountain-like displays. LED light systems available! www.otterbine.com DISTRICT 3 MEETING AT JUMPING BROOK COUNTRY CLUB GCSANJ thanks host Tom Higgins GCSANJ THROUGH THE DECADES -by Ken Kubik, Grass Roots PART FOUR 1930: H.T. Islieb of Locust Grove GC, Rahway, NJ is chairman of the Greenkeepers’ Associa­ • tion of New Jersey. The title is changed to president in later years. The purpose of the Association is purely educational. Subjects covered at monthly meetings include “Power greens mowers, their bene­ fits and disadvantages.” The Association membership totaled 47; all being from New Jersey and Stat­ en Island. The New Jersey State Open is held at Asbury Park G&CC and is won by World Golf Hall of Famer, Paul Runyan. The State Open is considered to be a PGA tour event at this time. 1940: A motion is passed to change the name of the Association to the New Jersey Greenkeep­ • ing Superintendents Association. Maplewood Country Club is used by the United States Department of Agriculture as a successful site for Japanese Beatle grub control using the inoculation of bacteria into the soil. 1950: Association president Al Rathjens, Sr. GCS of Spring Lake GC encourages a golf event at • monthly meetings to increase professional standing of Association members. Dues remain at $8/year. 1950 is the 30th Anniversary of the USGA Green Section. The cost for a personal visit by a USGA Green Section agronomist is now $50/day for a USGA member club. 1960: Reclassification of Association members is approved. First year GCS will be known as • Class B and shall have voting privileges. They can petition the Board for Class A status after three years. Joseph Flaherty, Sr. Manasquan River GC, is the Association president. Green Knoll GC opens and is the first golf course for the Somerset County Park Commission. Lift, clean, and repairing ball marks is allowed on putting greens for the first time. 1970: New Jersey GCS meet to discuss the ramifications of GCS certification. Dr. H.B. • Sprague, a world renowned agronomist at Rutgers University is presented a plaque by association president, Al Caravella in honor of his forty plus years of service to the turfgrass industry. The New Jersey Turfgrass Association is founded; an organization closely associated with the Rutgers University Turfgrass Program and with New Jersey golf course superintendents. 1980: Ed Walsh CGCS, the Ridgewood CC, assumes the editorship of the “GCSANJ Newslet­ • ter” from Paul Boizelle GCS Fiddlers Elbow CC. The newsletter changes its name to “The Greenerside.” Jack Martin is the Association president. He previously served as president ten years earlier. Tony Bifano, GCS Mountain Ridge CC and Glenn Gallion, GCS Green Brook CC contract a helicopter service to spray Diazinon for Dung Beatles on their golf courses. Surprise inspections by the NJDEP result in clubs having to build a separate room for pesticide storage. The US Open is held at Baltusrol GC, Joe Flaherty, Jr. CGCS. Jack Nicklaus wins his second US Open at Baltusrol. The Association desires to do a presentation to the GCS at the conclusion of the US Open, but is rebuffed by the president of the USGA. However their efforts lay the groundwork for the future presentations to the hosting tourna­ ment GCS. Continued on next page... GCSANJ THROUGH THE DECADES - by Ken Kubik 1990: Steve Finamore, CGCS Alpine CC presents a check for $25,000 to Dr. Bruce Clarke, Plant • Pathology Extension Specialist, Cook College, Rutgers University, on behalf of the Tri-State Research Foundation for Patch Disease Research. The USGA Senior Open is held at the Ridgewood CC, Ed Walsh CGCS. Association members volunteer in force for tournament course preparation. The Curtis Cup is held at Somerset Hills CC, Bob Dwyer GCS, and the USGA Women’s Amateur is held at Canoe Brook CC, Skip Cameron GCS. The GCSANJ assists in the formation of the NJ Golf Course Mechanics Association. PART FOUR 2000: Chris Carson, GCS Echo Lake CC, is the recipient of the GCSAA Leo Feser Award for the • article that is entitled, “How to Keep Your Job.” The 100th US Amateur is held at Baltusrol GC, Mark Kuhns, CGCS Director of Grounds. Ken Krausz, CGCS Paramus Golf Club is both president of the Asso­ ciation and editor of “The Greenerside.” TPC/Jasna Polona, Roger Stewart, CGCS receives the GCSAA Environmental Steward Award and TPC is also the site of the Senior PGA Instinct Classic. GCSANJ ini­ tiates a coalition of eighteen industry associations to form the NJ Alliance for Water Conservation. This coalition’s purpose is to work with the NJDEP to provide specific water use guidelines in time of drought emergencies. 2010: Bob “Red” Dickison, CGCS Upper Montclair CC, receives the GCSAA Colonel John Morley • Distinguished Service Award. Metedeconk National GC, (Ryan Oliver, GCS) maintenance building burns down but is rebuilt quickly. According to Adam Moeller, USGA agronomist, the stress to putting greens during the summer is perhaps the highest in the past two decades. The GCSANJ two day Crystal Springs Conference is again successfully held at the Grand Cascades Lodge. The inaugural LPGA Sybase Match Play Championship is held at Hamilton Farm GC, Paul Ramina Director of Grounds and Pat Husby, GCS. Neshanic Valley Golf Course, Darrell Marcinek, CGCS is awarded the “Groundwater Guardian Green Site.” It is also recognized as a “River-Friendly Golf Course” and is certified as an “Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.” The GCSANJ wins the MET Team Championship again. The Barclays is held at the Ridge­ wood CC, Todd Raisch, CGCS and there is a popular winner in Matt Kuchar. Again enough grounds de­ partment sponsor monies are raised to make substantial donations to industry related foundations. 2020: 94th Anniversary of the founding of the GCSANJ. The Northern Trust, the first leg of the • FedEx Cup will be held at Plainfield CC. Article researched and edited by Ken Kubik; credits also to Doug Vogel for initial GCSANJ historical research. BRAEN STONE If you’re going to be stuck in the sand, make it the best... BUNKER SAND IS NOW IN PLAY AT THE FOLLOWING COURSES: Knoll West Country Club: Parsippany, NJ Mendham Golf & Tennis Club: Mendham, NJ Mt. Tabor Country Club: Mount Tabor, NJ NJ National Golf Club: Basking Ridge, NJ North Jersey Country Club: Wayne, NJ Paramus Golf Club: Paramus, NJ Pinch Brook Golf Course: Florham Park, NJ Rolling Greens Golf Club: Newton, NJ Saratoga Springs Golf Course: Saratoga Springs, NY Shawangunk Country Club: Ellenville, NY Sunset Valley Golf Course: Pompton Plains, NJ West Hill Golf Course: Middletown, NY SAND IS AVAILABLE FOR PICK UP OR DELIVERY FROM OUR FRANKLIN QUARRY Valley Brook Golf Course: River Vale, NJ Arcola Country Club: Paramus, NJ Fairway Valley Golf Club: Washington, NJ Farmstead Golf & Country Club: Lafayette, NJ Flanders Valley Country Club: Flanders, NJ Fox Hollow Golf Club: Branchburg, NJ Hollow Brook Golf Club: Cortland Manor, NY Tarry Brae Golf Course: Fallsburg, NY Grossingers Country Club: Liberty, NY Mendham Golf & Tennis Club: Mendham, NJ Colonia Country Club: Colonia, NJ Visit www.braenstone.com or call Joe Klemm at 973-383-7100 ext.2 Get tougher turf up here. By controlling nematodes down here. Divanem™ nematicide delivers excellent turf quality through proven, broad-spectrum control including sting, ring, lance, and root­ knot nematodes. The innovative formulation moves quickly into the soil where nematodes are most active and provides drought tolerance and quicker recovery from stress. Get stronger, healthier turf from the ground up. Visit GreenCastOnline.com/Divanem to view trial results. #NematodeKnowledge ©2017 Syngenta. Important: Always read and follow label instructions. Some products may not be registered for sale or use in all states or counties. Please check with your state or local extension service to ensure registration status. Divanem is a Restricted Use Pesticide. Divanem™, GreenCast®, the Alliance Frame, the Purpose Icon and the Syngenta logo are trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. MW 1LGG7011_Divanem_7.5x4.875 02/17 Divanem Nematicide syngenta District 1/2 Meeting AT ROLLING GREENS GOLF CLUB Hurricane Irma Affects Longtime GCSANJ Mem­ ber: Buck Carpenter Buck Carpenter, retired superintendent from Roxciticus and longtime GCSANJ member, was in the direct path of Hurricane Irma. Bucky, as he is known, is the father of Les Carpen­ ter, recently retired superintendent of Newton CC, and Scott Carpenter, superintendent of Brooklake CC, as well as grandfather to Stephen Carpenter, assistant superintendent at North Jersey CC. Retired to the Florida Keys for the past 16 years, Buck was one of the first ever students at Rutgers Turf School. He built the back nine and then ran Musconetcong Golf Course, now called MineBrook, was superintendent at Braidburn CC, now Brooklake CC and finished up his career with a 25-year run at Roxciticus GC. Buck also served on the GCSANJ Board of Directors. This is the first hurricane that Buck has left his home in the Key’s for a safer place, usually choosing to ride out the storms. As Irma made landfall, Buck left for 10 days, spending time in Immokalee with friends. He returned to find his house still standing, but with quite a bit of damage. Buck will need a new roof and soffits as well as numerous repairs to his siding. Storm surge and wind took his truck and workshop, destroying freezers, refrigerators and all of his tools. He lost his entire landscape comprised of lime and banana trees, both of which he doted over. The GCSANJ Foundation recently forwarded some monies to Buck and his wife Norma, to help them get back a little piece of their paradise lost. Buck and Norma were overwhelmed by the gesture and send along their heartfelt thanks to the Foundation and the Association for treating them like family. You may be long from working in this industry, but you are never forgotten. For more than 30 years, Growth Products has brought superintendents bright ideas and the latest nutritional technology. Find the perfect fertilizer, [chelated micronutrient, or natural organic solution from our comprehensive product lineup. Visit us online at www.GrowthProducts.com or call (800) 648-7626 today! Soil Amendments & Rooting Stimulators Biological Fungicides Liquid Fertilizers Chelated Micronutrients Call Your Local Rep Today! Craig Lambert Cell: (917) 416-4588 Phone: (800) 648-7626 www.GrowthProducts.com Companion, Essential and Nitro-30, are registered trademarks of Growth Products., Ltd. ASSISTANT TOURNAMENT Great turnout from our Assistants Indian Spring Country Club HOSTS JEREMY HREBEN AND MIKE WILLIAMS MY OFFICE TIMOTHY CONNOLLY, CGCS DIRECTOR OF GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS TPC JASNA POLANA FLAG FROM TIM'S FIRST PGA TOUR EVENT AT TPC AVENEL___________________ "TIM'S OFFICE" ON THE SECOND FLOOR OF AN OLD BARN RETROFITTED FOR THE GROUNDS STAFF WHEN THE JASNA POLANA ESTATE WAS CONVERTED INTO A PRIVATE CLUB. SOUVENIR TICKETS TO CHAMPIONS TOUR EVENT AT JASNA POLANA 2001 "GOING AWAY GIFT" SIGNED BY CO-WORKERS AT TPC POTOMAC IN 2012 Rutgers Field Day ITRC cruise around Manhattan GCSANJ CHAMPIONSHIP AT ARCOLA COUNTRY CLUB Rich Lane & Kevin Purcell Tyler Otero and host superintendent Paul Dotti Matt Dobbie FULL FIELD OF PLAYERS GCSANJ CHAMPIONSHIP Flight A Champion - Freddy Carmona Flight B Champion - Jeremy Hreben Flight C Champion - Pat O’Neill Low Gross Supt. - Alan Bean Low Net Supt. - Mark Miedler Low Gross Affiliate - Jeff Haas Low Net Affiliate - Tom Weinert ARCOLA CC GCSANJ CHAMPIONSHIP Jeremy Hreben & Tom Weinert Low Gross winner Alan Bean Mike Brunelle & Tony Hooks ALL THE WINNERS Low net winner Mark Miedler GCSANJ MEMBER NEWS New Jersey Chapter gcsaa Les Carpenter Jr. retired after 31 years at Newton Country Club. Tom Weinert of Plant Food Company and his wife Paula recently took into foster care a newborn boy, Zayn Jaxon Weinert. The Weinerts have adopted or have in foster care four children and have eight children overall. Travis Pauley, GCS Plainfield Country Club recently hosted the 1st ever Jr. President’s Cup in late September. The best ju­ niors up to 19 years old from the USA squared off against an international team of juniors. Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player (sitting in cart on left • Travis on right) served as Honorary Captains. Congratulations to Jeremy Hreben, CGCS, Indian Spring Country Club, recently certified as a CGCS. Chalin Malbari, Battle Ground Country Club, welcomes a new baby to the family: Dylan Joseph Malbari 11:11am 8lbs 5.6oz 7/6/17 YOUR NEWS COULD AND SHOULD BE IN THIS ISSUE! SEND US WHAT’S NEW IN YOUR LIFE SO WE CAN SHARE. U.S. Women's Open at Trump National Bedminister ALEX, ERIC, ROB, NATE, TOM DIRECTOR OF GROUNDS ROB WAGNER & GCS OF OLD COURSE NATE SPENCE "POTUS" ARRIVA L DURING 2ND ROUND OCEANGRO® 5-5-0 Organic Nitrogen Fertilizer With 2.5% Calcium & 2.5% Iron ♦ Slow release, soil building ♦ Non-burning ♦ Economical Produced by The Ocean County Utilities Authority (732) 269-4500, ext. 8331 ♦ www.oceangro.com THIS IS OUR TURF Fisher & Son COMPANY, INC. Supporting golf, lawn, landscape, turf, and property professionals since 1928. 800-262-2127- FISHERANDSON.COM Pinpoint FUNGICIDE PINPOINT THE THREAT OF DOLLAR SPOT Pinpoint™ Fungicide is your NEW tactical advantage. Optimized for early- through late-season control, Pinpoint enhances your existing disease management program and delivers a surgical strike against dollar spot. Don't just level the playing field, keep it immaculate with Pinpoint. NUFARMINSIDER.COM VALENT ©2017 Nufarm. Pinpoint® is a trademark of Valent U.S.A. LLC. Nufarm Grow a better tomorrow. AG Enterprises STAFF UNIFORMS STAFF SHIRTS / PANTS Outerwear • Sweat Shirts • T-Shirts • Shorts • Sun Helmets Hats • Rain Suits • Work Boots • Logo Ball Washer Towels Embroidered or Screened Logo Rick Gordon 201-488-1276 • Fax:201-489-5830 Email: Merrick160@aol.com • www.agenterprisesonline.com 160 Overlook Avenue • Hackensack. NJ 07601 Coombs SOD FARMS BENTGRASS SOD L.L.C. Kevin Coombs Cell (856) 542-4178 kevin@coombsfarms.com 84 Route 77, Elmer, NJ 08318 Office (856) 358-4763 www.coombsfarms.com U.S. Women's Open at Trump National Bedminster ERIC TRUMP & ROB WAGNER Reviewing Hole Location on 12 TEAM USGA THANK YOU SPONSORS And Ken KUBIK U.S. Women's Open at Trump National Bedminster TEAM TRUMP AND VOLUNTEERS "Priceless"... Plant Diagnostic Laboratory And Nematode Detection Service provides accurate and timely plant diagnoses: Insect Identification ♦ Disease and Insect Pests ♦ Plant and Weed Identification ♦ ♦ Fungus and Mold Identification ♦ Nematode Assay ♦ Virus Testing ♦ Fungal Endophyte Screening ♦ Pesticide Resistance Screening ♦ Other Services Available by Contract http://njaes.rutgers.edu/plantdiagnosticlab/ or call 732-932-9140 or email clinic@njaes.rutgers.edu Mailing address: P.O. Box 550, Milltown, NJ 08850-0550 Physical location: Ralph Geiger Turfgrass Education Center 20 Indyk-Engel Way, North Brunswick 08902 Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station Soil Testing Laboratory performs chemical and mechanical analyses: ♦ Landscape - fertility, suitability, topsoil evaluation ♦ Farm - fertility, pre-sidedress nitrate, full farm ♦ Organic Media - greenhouse media, compost ♦ Sports Turf - fertility, sand-based root zone ♦ Technical - permeability and ecological ♦ ♦ Individual / Specialized Tests Irrigation Water - pH, salts, nitrate-nitrogen, phosphorus, iron http://njaes.rutgers.edu/soiltestinglab/ or call 848-932-9295 or email soiltest@njaes.rutgers.edu 57 Rt. 1, New Brunswick, 7:30 am to 5 pm weekdays. DOUBLD 'D' TURF, LLC Specialized Drill & Fill and Deep Drill Aerification Services for Golf COurses and Athletic Fields in NJ, PA, NY, CT, MD, and DE. New Jersey’s Distributor for: JRM INC. Innovative Turf Technology Providing a Large Selection of Tines, Bedknives, and more to the Turf Industry. • Turf Pride • Woodbay • SMG Industries • Galaxy Turf Tires • TurfTime Equipment Dennis DeSanctis, Sr. 732-241-7378 Dennis DeSanctis, Jr. 732-580-5516 DoubleDTurf.com THANK YOU - by Kevin Doyle, GCSAA NE Representative As a parent of nearly 17 years, I have advocated for my children to understand the reason for, and utilize, two simple words: thank you. While they may use those words to be polite, or recognize a small token or gesture, it makes me as a parent proud to hear them verbalized. My hope is the person receiving the thanks appreciates it as well. Two people benefitting from one simple recogni­ tion. Is it really as simple as that? If it comes following the word “please” and, upon completion of the task, is noted with a “thank you” in recognition, we get back to the previous notion of two benefiting from one simple verbal effort. Did you appreciate that they completed the task? Will they be glad that it was recognized? If the answer is yes, then your words made a significant difference. It might just be. Think of your prior supervisors and think of the way they recognized you and oth­ ers. There are a million different ways to operate, lead, and interact with those around us, but my guess is that we think first of the person who had a positive impact on you because of the positive culture they provided. I often pontificate about culture, and will not do so again this time; howev­ er, I do want you to think of the number of times those impactful leaders utilized the words thank you. One supervisor who made a tremendous impression on me during my (many) college years made it a priority to use both “please” and “thank you”. So much so that you had to notice. Working third shift cleaning university buildings was nearly as thankless as it got, except the supervisor made it a point to recognize the efforts of the staff at every turn. Recognizing your staff with simple, respectful use of “please” and “thank you” may go a long way. We are always striving to improve our facilities, and our staff plays the most significant part in achiev­ ing those improvements. Asking staff to be mind­ ful of trash, use caution while turning equipment due to environmental conditions, and requesting they stay longer to complete tasks that will make improvements are often inherent requests in our daily duties. They may even know the communi­ cation is coming. While pizza, swag, and time off are often viewed as exceptional recognition of a job well done, don’t overlook the power of well-intentioned words. Note the "well-intentioned” portion of the previ­ ous sentence. While sticks and stones may break bones, words given in a tone less than genuine can change your recognition from positive to negative in a hurry. Those words may end up hurting you. Being polite builds respect, and recognition is a driver of employee motivation and success. Make it a priority and let me know how it works for you! I want to follow this up with a HUGE thank you to the GCSANJ board of directors for their gracious donation to the GCSAA Disaster Relief Fund. It seems like only yesterday that I visited many of you after Sandy, and the fact that your board of directors has taken the opportunity to contribute to colleagues in need truly speaks volumes. It is not the first time, and I am confident it will not be the last. The board of directors of the GCSANJ has chosen to contribute, and positively affect the lives of superintendents just like you, in their time of need on your behalf. Thank you GCSANJ board, and each and every one of you. Without you the members, it wouldn’t be possible. GCSANJ LEGISLATIVE NEWS by Keith Bennett, Legislative Representative From neonics, tasks forces, playing fields and proposed bans on chemicals that rhyme with dorpyrifos, there is something for everyone in Trenton! Here is a wrap up of what is going on at the State House that either affects or is close to the heart of the golf industry: Neonics are still a target for some legislatures, with current bills in process to classify any chemistries in the neonicotinoid class of insecticides as restricted use in the State. This would limit their use to licensed applicators and remove products from the general public’s arsenal. While this bill as proposed would not affect golf courses (assuming superintendents are not purchasing their material from Home Depot), it will include products labeled for lawn and garden, flea and tick, bait trap and all homeowner use. The claim driving issue is that homeowners are over applying neonics, causing harm to the environment and therefore should not have access to the material. The main concern forthose opposing the bill is the lack of scientific evidence substantiating the claim. The New Jersey Green Industry Council (NJGIC) is sup­ porting legislatures to commission a study to determine whether homeowners are in fact over applying as well as requiring pollinator training for pesticide applicators and operators. Other pollinator activity includes a bill establishing the “Healthy Pollinators Task Force.” This 15 member Task Force would focus on pollinator health, specifically creating an action plan including the most up to date research and strategies for protecting pollinators. Thanks to the work of the NJGIC, there will be industry representation included on the Task Force. Continued on page 30 • Lock in current pricing • Receive extended terms • Ask about warehousing We’ve Got You Covered. Get ready for next season, with our Early Order Programs Save on the products you'll need most from: BASF, Bayer, Syngenta, Nutarm, Dow, FMC, and SePRO. • PLUS Harrell's premium branded products - Harrell's MAX® liquid foliar nutritionals, HydroMAX® wetting agents, and SprayMAX® adjuvants and colorants. Give Jen or Josh a call today. JEN SCHNEIDER jschneider@harrells.com (732) 284-0895 JOSH K0PERA jkopera@harrells.com (201)213-8693 Harrell’s Growing a Better World® 800.282.8007 | wwvLharrells.com THE FORGOTTEN BURIAL GROUND - by Douglas Johnstone, Silver Lake Golf Club Buried beneath the 18th fairway of Staten Island’s Sil­ ver Lake Golf Course there exists a secret. Unknown except to the most observant passerby, a forgotten burial ground exists. There, beneath the rolling hills lie the remains of seven-thousand Irish immigrants. It is a burial ground that, in spite of its size and the number of dead buried there, was never consecrated or re­ membered other than with a small plaque attached to a boulder on a path leading to the clubhouse. On the plaque are written the following words: Here lie the unmarked graves of Irish immigrants who fled the great famine in search of freedom. Those who are buried here died from disease, alone and isolated, in the Tompkinsville Quarantine before tasting freedom. The 7000 dead, most of whom had no survivors who could afford markers, were buried anonymously. They will not be forgotten. 2002. The story of those seven-thousand Irish dead begins in the 1840’s during the famine or the Great Hunger, as it has come to be known. That was the most awful of rimes when many Irish sought salvation from their suffering in America. And so they came across the At­ lantic, sick and destitute, headed for New York hoping for safe harbor - but some instead found only Stat­ en Island’s gruesome Tompkinsville Quarantine. The Quarantine was well known on Staten Island for the sickness and dying that took place there. It processed hundreds of thousands of immigrants in its fifty-nine- year existence, the vast majority of which came from Ireland. The locals were so appalled of the state of Tompkinsville Quarantine and were in fear of disease spreading outside that, on the night of September 1, 1858, about thirty men from the area entered the Quarantine enclosure. After removing patients from several of the hospitals, they set fire to all buildings connected to the institution and burned them to the ground. In the local press, it was noted that, in spite of the mayhem, not a single life was lost and no one was seriously injured. In the same year (1858) a rectangu­ lar graveyard known as Marine or Hospital Cemetery, about four acres in size, appeared on borough maps. The first documentation of the Cemetery told of thir­ ty-three headstones there in 1888. But, many persons asked, why would a four-acre cemetery contain only thirty-three graves? Was it because most of the Quar­ antine’s Irish were penniless and couldn’t afford tombstones? How long the Cemetery was functional or how many bodies were buried there is not exactly known. The tombstones were removed from the tract of land when Silver Lake Golf Course was being built in 1927. Many historians refute the idea of only thir­ ty-three bodies and believe the number more likely to be seven-thousand bodies. For decades the remains of those tired and sick Irish travelers lay sodded over beneath the finely manicured fairway of the golf course, with nothing to mark their graves or reveal their plight, until a young Irish-Amer­ ican girl, Caitlin Tormey, then a student in 1998, was drawn to their plight by a social studies project. Cait­ lin’s interest became so great that she began a crusade to have the memorial built to the seven-thousand Irish dead. She managed to gather hundreds of signatures from interested individuals and groups. She also man­ aged to raise $3,000 dollars from individual donations, and, from a local business, donation of the plaque and the boulder on which it is mounted. The idea of the monument was met with indifference by some individuals and with enthusiasm by others. Some golfers at the course were of the opinion that as long as the monument doesn’t get in the way of play it was all right with them. One regular was heard to say “Just put it off to the side - I don’t want it to interfere with the ball. It shouldn’t be on the fairway unless it’s flat. Then we can use it as the 150-yard marker.” Others were more sensitive and enthusiastic. In par­ ticular, the local chapter of the Ancient Order of Hi­ bernians and several Irish American activist groups were delighted with Caitlin Tormey’s efforts to erect the monument. It must be also mentioned that one particular man at the time, New York City Councilman Jerome X. O’Donovan and a member of Silver Lake Golf Club was very supportive of the project and had a very strong connection with Ireland, but I will refer more about that later. After years of persistence and tenacity with local politicians and the Parks Department personnel, the small monument was finally laid in place in 2002 - a great credit to Caitlin Tormey’s pride and spirit. But for many in the Irish American community of Staten Is­ land the monument, although a good start, is a far cry from what it should be. Most Irish American golfers agreed that the small plaque monument is not enough considering the magnitude of the number of persons beneath the fairway. THE FORGOTTEN BURIAL GROUND - by Douglas Johnstone, Silver Lake Golf Club Remember I mentioned about New York City Coun­ In early October 2015, I was contacted by Ms. cilman Jerome (Jay) X. O’Donovan and his support Lynn Rogers, the Executive Director of Friends for Caitlin Tormey’s memorial campaign? Jay was of Abandoned Cemeteries. She informed me instrumental in the approval and fund raising pro­ that Irish Hunger Markers were going to be cess. It was due to his political influence that the placed at the unmarked grave sites of all known crusade gained traction and he donated a large Irish Famine Victims throughout the world. portion of monies from his Discretionary Fund. Our She mentioned that Staten Island was the first beloved friend Jay was a past Grand Marshal of city chosen in the United States and asked if I the Staten Island St Patrick’s Day Parade. He was would be interested in installing one here. Of an avid golfer who made Silver Lake Golf Club his course I agreed and on October 25, 2015 New home course and always delighted us with his pres­ York State Assemblyman Michael Cusick con­ ence. There were rumors that Jay was a direct de­ ducted the Irish Hunger Marker unveiling cere­ scendent of Jeremiah O’Donovan Rossa, the exiled mony here at Silver Lake Golf Club. Monsignor Fenian. When I did some research on the possibility James Dorney consecrated the Forgotten Buri­ of a relationship between them I found that Jeremi­ al Grounds and the Memorial site. Among the ah O’Donovan Rossa died on June 29, 1915, at St. many dignitaries and observers attending was Vincent’s Hospital, Staten Island. St Vincent’s is less Mr. Shane Cahill, Vice Consul, Consulate Gen­ than 1 mile from our 5th green. I further discovered eral of Ireland, New York. that his descendants, including New York City Councilman Jerome X. O’Donovan, made their homes in Staten Island. Recently my partner, Eve Taranto, spoke with Jay’s wife, Vita O’Donovan, and she confirmed that Jay was in fact the Great, Great grandson of Jeremiah O’Donovan Rossa, whose funeral inspired Padraig Pearse to deliver his famous graveside oration which fueled the 1916 Easter Rising. My Irish Connection There is another Irish connection associated with Silver Lake Golf Club that affects me personally. My late mother Margaret Veronica Lynch was born in Dublin on March 13,1927 and my late father Ian James Johnstone was born in Edinburgh, Scotland in January 18, 1926. Mom was a home maker and a nurse and dad was a photo engraver for the New York Times. They both retired in 1992. Ian began learning to play “The Game” as he would call it at the age of ten at Silver Lake Golf Club. He was an avid player who maintained a single digit handicap for 40 of the 62 years he enjoyed playing. In the spring of 1949 mom and dad met for the first time here in the Grill Room at Silver Lake Golf Club. Continued on page 34 Over my years of keeping the greens here I would often meet people who had heard about the Memorial but didn’t know where it was. I would show it to them and if they asked me questions I would share what knowledge I had. Every winter when my turf was asleep I would think about the significance of the site how to make it stand out a wee bit more. Prior to St. Patrick’s Day in March of 2015 we installed a 35-foot flag pole directly behind the Forgotten Burial Ground’s Memorial Boulder. It flies 4 flags. The main pole flies the 5’ x 8’ American Flag with the 4’ x 6’ Irish Flag under it. The yard arm has the POW-MIA flag on the left and the 9/11 Never Forget flag on the right. Silver Lake Silver Lake is a municipal parkland track that caters to New York City’s blue collar workers and families. It is located 7.5 miles from the former World Trade Center. On the horrific day of September 11, 2001, we lost many friends and acquaintances with the majority of them being members of New York Police Depart­ ment (NYPD) and the Fire Department of New York (FDNY). This subtle addition of the flag pole now clearly defines the Forgotten Burial Grounds location and reminds us of more re­ cent tragedies. GCSANJ LEGISLATIVE NEWS Continued from page 27 With the Federal EPA deciding to not move forward with a ban on chlorpyrifos, legislatures in New Jersey are looking to move forward with a state-wide ban of the material. There is currently a bill in both the state assembly and senate to fully ban chlorpyrifos, currently available only as a restricted use product. The bill authors claim that this chemical is overused and is causing a detriment to the public. There is a lack of statistical data and research showing where the use of this already restricted chemical is harming residents of the state, but this bill is something to watch. An additional proposed ban in New Jersey that is still in the early stages concerns paraquat. While not labeled for use on turf, it is important to agricultural growers and the issue will be closely followed. The “Safe Playing Fields Act” as introduced a few years ago would restrict the use of lawn care pes­ ticides at child care centers and certain schools. This bill has been on the back burner for a while and although it is currently quiet, it is a bill that could return in the future and is on the radar of the people who watch for those things. Meanwhile outside of New Jersey.... in Montgomery County, Maryland, a ban on pesticide use on lawn and landscapes on private property was thrown out. This is great news for the industry as it sets a prec­ edent and will give pause to other towns or counties that might be considering local bans. That is the wrap-up for now! The NJGIC continues work on behalf of the GCSANJ focusing on educa­ tion (for both applicators and legislatures) and not bans. The world of politics sometimes awards the squeakiest wheel and unfortunately many of the squeaky wheels in Trenton like to ban pesticides with­ out worrying about facts, statistics, or research. While there will not be anything changing too quickly off the list above, we will keep the Association updated as events unfold. grass roots Website http://goo.gl/21beQy We carry a full line of turf maintenance supplies from the leading manufacturers in the industry. Products include: plant protectants fertilizers, grass seed, tools, golf course accessories, soils, topdressing, mulches, adjuvants and much more. We Pride Ourselves in Customer Service Technical Support Quality Products Follow & Tweet Us www.facebook.com/GrassRootsTurf www.twitter.com/GrassRootsTurf Grass Roots Turf Products www.griturf.com Address: 4 Middlebury Blvd., Suite 7, Randolph, NJ 07869 Phone: 973-257-6634 - Email: sales@griturf.com The Liquid Fertilizer Experts & Perfectionists Like You. Tom Weinert: Dick Neufeld: Tom Pepe: Rich Sweeney, CGCS: (609) 580-0402 | rsweeney@plantfoodco.com New Jersey Team: (914) 262-0111 | tweinert@plantfoodco.com (973) 945-6318 | dneufeld@plantfoodco.com (609) 751-1372 | tpepe@plantfoodco.com PLANT FOOD COMPANY, INC. The Liquid Fertilizer Experts Connect With Us Today: 800-562-1291 www.plantfoodco.com TOTAL TURF "Helping to make golf better GOLF SERVICES IN NEW JERSEY SINCE ‘93!" YOUR TRUSTED SOURCE FDR THE SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR SUCCESS. With location in reach of every jobsite, a wide breadth of inventory and an innovative customer experience, we are the leading source for green industry supplies and services. Our world-class team of over 2.500 industry experts is focused every day on meeting the unique needs of every customer. We know your business, challenges and expectations better than anyone else, making us a true partner in your success. 800.SiteOne | SiteOne.com Wayne Remo (862) 209-8243 Chad Mathieu (914) 539-5675 Shawn Reynolds (401) 486-9133 Frank Jacheo (732) 489-1442 SlteOne LANDSCAPE SUPPLY HELPING YOU OVERACHIEVE IN YOUR AERATION PROGRAM Receptor is an Advanced Nutrient Catalyst that helps you extract more value from your fertilizer. It is an EPA-registered plant growth regulator formulated with components that can improve fertilizer efficiency. When applied with your fertilizer application, Receptor enhances root system development and contributes to a stronger, healthier growing plant. This results in increased nutrient and moisture uptake and improved tolerance of early season growing stresses. Contact your local Helena representative for more information on receptor. RECEPTOR PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS • Increases root growth and new seedling establishment • Enhances early root system development • Produces a stronger, healthier growing plant that recovers quicker in high traffic areas Improves nutrient & moisture uptake • • Organic hormones produce increased rates of lateral growth Top Dressing Sand Treatment with & without Receptor CoRoN® 14-2-14 @ .5 lb N/1000 ft2 CoRoN® 14-2-14 @ .5 lb N/1000 ft2 with Receptor @ 2 fl oz/20 gal water For more information, contact a local Helena representative: Mike Miller 609.703.5303 Tim Gerzabek 609.221.9240 HELENA® People.. Products... Knowledge®... helenachemical.com | Always read and follow label directions. Helena, CoRoN, Receptor and People... Products... Knowledge... are registered trademarks of Helena Holding Company. © 2017 Helena Holding Company. HPG1017P THE FORGOTTEN BURIAL GROUND - by Douglas Johnstone, Silver Lake Golf Club Continued from page 29 When queried about their first encounter mom would explain how she had heard rumors of the potential eligible gentlemen bachelors who played golf at “The Lake” on a regular basis. One Saturday afternoon Mom and one of her sisters stopped in just around the time the 4 balls were finishing their matches. My father would finish the story with a grand smile and say ‘It was love at first sight and all the rest is history.” They married on January 19th 1952. Little did I think that, one day, I would manage a golf course, where my mom and dad first met. Councilman Jerome X. ODonovan at a Staten Island St. Patrick’s Day event *This article first appeared in the Greenside, the news­ letter of the Golf Course Superintendent’s Association of Ireland. *Some portions and references used in this article, “The Forgotten Burial Ground" were written and duplicated with permission from an article written by Kevin McPart- land that appeared in The Irish American Historical Jour­ nal, Vol. 18 2004. Above: Doug and his trusted friend Skyedog at the Forgotten Burial Ground Memorial. Above: The flag pole showing the American and Irish flags along with the POW-MIA and 9/11 flags. Left: The 18th green and fairway, location of the Forgotten Burial Ground. Jeremiah O'Donovan Rossa THE PRESIDENTS CUP AT LIBERTY NATIONAL GOLF CLUB Eric Greytok, Greg James and Brian Gjelsvik Greg James and PGA Agronomist Paul Vermeulen Owner of Liberty National Golf Club, Paul Fireman thanking volunteers Jesse Dowdy, Assistant Superintendent at Liberty National WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED WITH THE EQUIPMENT, PARTS AND SERVICE YOU NEED Only Jacobsen has you covered with a full portfolio of turf maintenance equipment, world-class parts and service support. Wilfred MacDonald, Inc. Turf Equipment Specialists Lawn and Golf supply co. inc. JACOBSEN 1.888.922.TURF | www.jacobsen.com Thanks Thanks Thanks THANKS! To our 2017 Sponsor Partners! The New Jersey Chapter appreciates your generosity and investment in our members! PS - The 2018 Sponsor Partner Kit will be revealed shortly. • BASF • BAYER • DOUBLE ‘D’ TURF • DRYJECT NEW JERSEY • FINCH SERVICES/LACORTE EQUIPMENT • FISHER & SON • GRASS ROOTS • HARRELL’S • HELENA CHEMICAL • NUFARM AMERICAS • PLANT FOOD COMPANY • SEETON TURF WAREHOUSE • SITEONE LANDSCAPE SUPPLY • STORR TRACTOR COMPANY• SYNATEK • SYNGENTA • TOTAL TURF GOLF SERVICES • WILFRED MACDONALD • DOWNES Since 1986 Tree Service Co., Inc. All Phases of Tree Work Fully Insured Year Round Service Commercial Residential 65 ROYAL AVENUE, HAWTHORNE, NEW JERSEY 07506 PHONE (973)236-9800 FAX (973)236-0222 www.DownesTreeService.com MEET THE ROUGH MOWER THAT'S BETTER BY A WIDE MARGIN John Deere 9009A TerrainCut™ Rough Mower www.finchinc.com Finch SERVICES, INC. Est. 1945 LACORTE EQUIPMENT GOLF DIVISION John Deere 3. What are the worst parts about your job? Chem/Fert Supplier: “Being treated as if we are just another annoying salesman walking through the door when you know you are truly there to help that superintendent achieve their goals.” WHAT VENDORS WISHED SUPERINTENDENTS UNDER­ STOOD ABOUT THEIR SIDE OF THE GOLF INDUSTRY - by Todd Raisch, CGCS Where would we be without our vendors? They don't just deliver fertilizer, build new tees, and trim our trees. They educate us, support us and advise us. They do­ nate generously to our association and events. They keep us up-to-date with all of the industry news and gossip. When superintendents say jump, most ven­ dors say how high. They are so much more than our suppliers. They are our partners. To do that and much more takes a lot of time, effort and frustration on the vendor’s part. The Greenerside Editorial Committee recently sat down with three of our local vendors to discuss their side of the industry, the good and the bad, their frustrations and how we as superintendents can partner together with our vendors for the betterment of all. Course Contractor: “It’s lonely. It sounds crazy when you drive around and see customers and friends all day. But it’s actually a lonely profession because we see our customers only briefly during each visit. It’s hard to explain if you haven’t been in sales, but I often look back at jobs I’ve had where I went to the same place each day and was surrounded by the same people each day. That routine and familiarity can grow mundane, but at the same time it is com­ forting; something I will never take for granted if I ever leave the sales business and enter back into a “regular” job.” For the sake of anonymity, we will call our three vendors the Territory Manager, the Chem/Fert Supplier and the Course Contractor. Before we get started, any general com­ 1. ments based on the title of this article? Chem/Fert Supplier: “There should be no “sides”. We are in the same business and ultimately both have goals we want to achieve and can be achieved together.” Territory Manager: “This sounds like it may be thought provoking and interesting, yet a risky top­ ic too, one that has never been addressed.” 2. What are the best parts about your job? Chem/Fert Supplier: “Helping a superintendent reach their goals on their golf courses.” Course Contractor: “Customers become friends. Many of my closest friends are customers. What could be better than that? It’s a small industry, ev­ eryone seems to know everyone.” Territory Manager: "I love to help people. I love to figure out problems. I love the relationships. I love to think outside the box to improve turf qual­ ity while also addressing budgetary limitations.” Territory Manager: “Driving and traffic! Seriously though... I can help. However, there are many super­ intendents who don’t want the help or worst don’t feel like they need it when it is so obvious that they do need the help. Some people just are either too stubborn or too proud to hear that a different way may the correct way forward.” What are your biggest frustrations in dealing 4. with superintendents? Chem/Fert Supplier: “When a superintendent treats you as if you are wasting their time and they are just too busy.” Course Contractor: "I’ve never been in sales out­ side of the turfgrass business, so it’s hard to speak comparatively. But I often do wonder if sales in var­ ious other industries have customers with as high of expectations as superintendents do. Maybe it’s because they have dozens of salesmen visiting them regularly, or more likely it’s because their member­ ship requires perfection, therefore the superinten­ dent requires perfection from their sales profes­ sionals and aren’t afraid to basically demand it. So ultimately I understand it. Jump? How high?” Continued from page 41 WHAT VENDORS WISHED SUPERINTENDENTS UNDER­ STOOD ABOUT THEIR SIDE OF THE GOLF INDUSTRY - by Todd Raisch, CGCS Territory Manager: “Getting appointments set up, especially when you are new to the business is challenging and very frustrating. Personally, I don’t need a sale to feel validated about each and every sales call. With that said, when I try to of­ fer ideas and help that won’t put a dime into my pocket, I’m still often viewed through the lense of being a salesman who is just there to make mon­ ey rather than just being a friend trying to help the superintendent.” Territory Manager: “If you are going to take the time out of your busy schedule to meet with me, take the time to be prepared for the meeting. Know what you want to ask about. I can help. Often guys take meetings and we sit around for thirty minutes talking about sports or our families. While those conversations are important for relationship build­ ing, open up the door and let us in if you feel com­ fortable with that relationship. Again, we can help!” 5. How could superintendents be more effi­ cient in their use of you as a vendor and partner? Chem/Fert Supplier: “This industry is about rela­ tionships and service. Identify those vendors and use them.” Course Contractor: “Ask more questions, gener­ al questions, open-ended questions. Most sales people learn from dozens of superintendents, manufacturers, company colleagues, and many conferences each year. We are gathering knowl­ edge quickly, probe me. You don’t have to buy from me, but know that I feel good when you ask for my professional thoughts on things. Some­ times I may not have the exact answer you need or want, but the conversation will likely still be beneficial to both of us. I usually don’t just vol­ untarily tell a customer what I would do as that could be viewed as obnoxious. Giving advice or an opinion when it’s not asked for is a risky sales situation. Many visits I have I walk out of the of­ fice not feeling good because the superintendent took the general "what do you have for me, what can you offer me” approach, or they deflected the entire meeting to just small talk. Surprisingly the best sales calls for me are not necessarily when I get an order, but rather when a superintendent asks me what I would do, or how I would handle a specific problem, or what product(s) I would use in a given situation. Then we put our heads to­ gether. Even if they don’t like my ideas, opinions or advice, at least I know they respect me enough to ask and I leave feeling good that I gave them all of the helpful information I could.” Is there anything about the industry that 6. disgusts you, makes you uncomfortable or causes you to lose sleep? Chem/Fert Supplier: “Unethical business!! Some vendors actually bring value and for those that don’t, some may resort to unethical business prac­ tices. Those salesmen devalue what a good vendor brings to the table.” Course Contractor: “The stress that my customers carry on their shoulders. It is an excruciatingly dif­ ficult profession with 6 to 7-day work weeks, very early mornings, labor aggravations, difficult mem­ bership demands, and relatively low job security. But it’s the nature of the beast with this profession. Nonetheless, I often feel guilty being in a more se­ cure job. However, I don’t earn as much income as most of my customers - is that the trade off? I don’t know. If a customer loses their job I genuinely feel terrible and helpless, but I always try hard to help them find another opportunity. Being a superinten­ dent is a grueling and virtually thankless profession and knowing that makes me a little disgusted with the industry as a whole.” Territory Manager: “One, there are too many ven­ dors chasing the same dollar. Two, new products coming into the industry assume that most super­ intendents are stupid. Products or services that are expensive and make dubious claims about perfor­ mance are too commonplace in today’s market and there are too many superintendents willing to WHAT VENDORS WISHED SUPERINTENDENTS UNDER­ STOOD ABOUT THEIR SIDE OF THE GOLF INDUSTRY - by Todd Raisch, CGCS Continued from page 42 throw bad money at said silver bullet Be patient, listen to university testing, talk to your peers. Outlandish claims from aggressive marketing must be challenged by the superintendent” 7. What are the positives and negatives of working with a newer superintendent vs. a more experienced superintendent? Chem/Fert Supplier: “Newer supers ask many more questions as they begin to establish their own programs.” Course Contractor: “Often times newer super­ intendents are more open, ask questions, and ask for your opinion of various situations. This is where I feel I can excel, by helping provide some information or ideas. Often times experienced superintendents don’t ask questions nor ask for my opinion on work-related things. Perhaps they don’t respect me and my thoughts, or perhaps they feel that if they ask me things they’ll feel more obligated to buy something from me, or perhaps they are just going through the motions doing the same routine each day, month and year and therefore don’t feel the need to ask ques­ tions. Whether new or experienced, I think the best superintendents don’t just focus on “what do you offer and what are your prices,” they probe for ideas and learnings from all of the sales pro­ fessionals who call on them.” Territory Manager: “On the positive side, new­ er superintendents are much more open to new ideas, testing products and they haven’t calloused over from years of grinding in the industry. The negative is they listen to everybody who walks in the door. A more experienced superintendent who has probably been around the block at multi­ ple golf course typically possesses a great wealth of knowledge and is someone who I can learn from and in turn I can share that information with others. The obvious negative about older super­ intendents is that they can be set in their ways and not open to new technologies or ideas.” What pressures are you under that a super­ 8. intendent may not fully understand? Chem/Fert Supplier: "If you don’t sell something to­ day you lost the day. It’s not there waiting for you tomorrow.” Course Contractor: “I find more times than not that customers far under-estimate the costs associated with running the business. I often feel as though they are thinking my prices are too high or that I’m wealthy. But actually annually I’m just covering costs, investing in some equipment and living on a modest income. Now, I do know some sales busi­ ness owners doing far better financially than I, but I thinks that’s the minority and not the majority of sales professionals in this industry.” Territory Manager: "When I make a recommenda­ tion and that recommendation doesn’t quite meet the superintendent’s expectation, I don’t just walk away with frustration of a loss sale. I walk away with disappointment that I failed the superinten­ dent and myself. I am very hard on myself. I want to help. If the superintendent is successful, then I am successful. There is pressure that comes along with that. There is also substantial sales goal pressure. I believe strongly that I should only sell what the superintendent needs, not oversell or jam products and services down one’s throat just to make a sales goal. Balancing the goals of your company versus those of your client can at times be very delicate, taxing, frustrating and worrisome. It is very stressful to all of us.” 9. If you could change one thing about your re­ lationship with most superintendents what would it be? Chem/Fert Supplier: “I honestly feel like I have many amazing relationships that I wouldn’t change for anything. Some of my best friends are superinten­ dents. The superintendents I may not do business with, I still feel I have great relationships with, or at least have great respect for and I would hope they would for me as well.” WHAT VENDORS WISHED SUPERINTENDENTS UNDERSTOOD ABOUT THEIR SIDE OF THE GOLF INDUSTRY - by Todd Raisch, CGCS Continued from page 42 Territory Manager: "I wish that the superintendent would understand that I have their best interests in mind, but also understand that I am human and that I do make mistakes.” Many thanks to our volunteer vendors for sharing their thoughts for this article. Be on the lookout for the re­ verse of this topic when in the January issue of the Greenerside we will probe superintendents about their relationship with vendors. Registered for the Green Expo yet? GREEN EXPO Demember 5-7, 2017 Borgata Hotel, AC Turf and Landscape Conference New Jersey • Meet Leo Barber, GM, from New Zealand • Informative Golf Sessions - Tuesday & Weds • GCSANJ Chapter Social - Weds night Register at: www.njturfgrass.org How’s Your Golf Trivia Knowledge? 1. Who became the youngest and oldest player to win the Masters, in 1963 and 1986? How many rounds must a golfer have 2. played to be eligible for a GHIN handicap? In the game of golf, a stimpmeter is used 3. for what? How many dimples are there on a stan­ 4. dard golf ball? What is the maximum number of clubs 5. you are allowed to carry in your bag? Who is the only U.S. President to have 6. been a club member of Augusta National? Prior to 2016, when was the last time 7. golf was in the Olympics? Which country has the most golf 8. courses per capita in the world? What is another common name for a 9. double eagle? 10. What is the most common loft for a lob wedge? ANSWERS - HOW DID YOU DO? 1. Jack Nicklaus 2. 6 3. Speed of play 4. 336 5. 14 6. Dwight D. Eiserhower I. 1904 8. Scotland 9. Albatross 10. 60 degrees 2017 GCSANJ FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS: JOHN PETROVSKY - SON OF JOHN PERTROVSKY - THE ED CASEY AWARD ISABELLA CANDELORO - DAUGHTER OF MICHAEL CANDELORO - THE JOHN ANDERSON AWARD VICTORIA KUNESCH - DAUGHTER OF IAN KUNESCH - THE JIM MCNALLY AWARD NICHOLAS HOWE - SON OF ROGER HOWER - THE JOHN FARRELL AWARD- ELLY RAISCH - DAUGHTER OF TODD RAISCH - THE GCSANJ FOUNDATION AWARD SEAN LARSON - SON OF DOUG LARSON - THE GCSANJ FOUNDATION AWARD LEXUS DISBROW - DAUGHTER OF TOM WEINERT - THE GCSANJ FOUNDATION AWARD LOGAN PIERPOINT - SON OF GEORGE PIERPOINT IV - THE GCSANJ FOUNDATION AWARD ANDREW ALEXANDER - SON OF JOHN ALEXANDER - THE GCSANJ FOUNDATION AWARD District 4 Championship Thanks for a great day Brian! Most Superintendent Brian Minemier Burlington Country Club Greenerside Awards NICEST SUPERINTENDENT 1- MARK MIEDLER, MAPLEWOOD CC 2- LES CARPENTER, NEWTON CC 3- LANCE ROGERS, COLONIA CC NICEST VENDOR 1- DENNIS DESANCTIS,JR, DOUBLE D TURF LLC T2- KEITH KUBIK, GRASS ROOTS INC. T2- KEN KUBIK, GRASS ROOTS INC. HARDEST WORKING SUPERINTENDENT 1- PAUL DOTTI, ARCOLA CC T2- STEVE FINAMORE, ALPINE CC T2- TIM MCAVOY, FOX HOLLOW GC T2- CLIFF MOORE, MOUNTAIN RIDGE CC HARDEST WORKING VENDOR 1- KEITH KUBIK, GRASS ROOTS INC. 2- JOSH KOPERA, HARRELLS LLC 3- ROB JOHNSON, FISHER & SON BEST GRASS GROWING SUPERINTENDENT 1- STEVE FINAMORE, ALPINE CC 2- PAUL DOTTI, ARCOLA GC 3- MARK MIEDLER, MAPLEWOOD CC FAVORITE COURSE TO PLAY IN NJ T1- PINE VALLEY GC T1- RIDGEWOOD CC T1- SOMERSET HILLS CC BEST CONDITIONED PUBLIC COURSE 1- NESHANIC VALLEY GC 2- GALLOPING HILL GC 3- ATLANTIC CITY CC BEST CONDITIONED PRIVATE COURSE T1- PINE VALLEY GC T1- RIDGEWOOD CC 3- PLAINFIELD CC MOST LIKELY TO END UP AS A SUPERINTENDENT AT A TOP 100 GOLF COURSE 1- TYLER OTERO, NORTH JERSEY CC 2- MIKE BRUNELLE, UPPER MONTCLAIR CC 3- RUSS HARRIS, GALLOPING HILL GC SUPERINTENDENT THATS GETS MORE DONE WITH LESS 1- LES CARPENTER, NEWTON CC 2- TOM HIGGINS, JUMPING BROOK CC T3- DON ASINSKI, FORSGATE CC T3- BRAD FOX, NEW JERSEY NATIONAL GC T3- MARK MIEDLER, MAPLEWOOD CC T3- LANCE ROGERS, COLONIA CC T3- FRANK TICHENOR, FOREST HILL FIELD CLUB "The votes are in, GCSANJ has voted" PATRON DIRECTORY A.G. ENTERPRISES Staff Uniforms Rick Gordon Ph: 201.488.1276 Fx: 201.489.5830 merrickl60@aol.com agenterprisesonline.com BASF PROFESSIONAL & SPECIALTY SOLUTIONS Plant Protection & Plant Health Products David Schell Lexicon, Xzemplar, Honor, Insignia & Emerald Ph: 410.800.8762 david.schell@basf.com BAYER Plant Health Products Jeffrey Weld Pesticides 2 T.W. Alexander Drive Research Triangle Park, NC 277092014 Ph: 914.419.9384 Fx: 877.492.1897 jeff.weld@bayer.com DOUBLE‘D’ TURF, LLC Turf grass Aeration Specialist Dennis DeSanctis, Sr. Dennis DeSanctis, Jr. Drill & Fill, TurfPride, JRM Tines 86 Bergen Mills Road Monroe Twp, NJ 08831 Ph: 732.241.7378 Fx: 732.446.0708 dennis@doubledturf.com dennisjr@doubledturf.com DOWNES TREE SERVCE CO. Kevin Downes Tree Services, Mulch & Top Soil, Containers Tree Removal, Trimmings, Mulch Installation, 65 Royal Avenue, Hawthorne, NJ 07506 Ph: (973) 238-9800 Fx: (973) 238-0222 mickeyg@downes.pro DRYJECT NEW JERSEY Dennis Granahan 7 Seagull Lane Lincroft, NJ 07738 Ph: 9176178827 dryjectnj@comcast.net FINCH SERVICES/LACORTE EQUIPMENT Paul Brandon 419 Industrial Drive North Wales, PA 19454 Cell: (215) 266-9161 pbrandon@fmchinc.com FISHER & SON COMPANY, INC. Distributor of Golf & Turf Products Rob Johnson Fertilizer, Seed, Horticultural 110 Summit Drive, Exton PA 19341 Ph: 800.262.2127 Rob: 215.475.7998 rjohnson@fisherandson.com GRASS ROOTS, INC. Golf Course Maintenance Supplies Ken Kubik: 973.418.7035 Keith Kubik: 973.418.7034 Jay McKenna: 973.418.7036 Office: 973.252.6634 GROWTH PRODUCTS, LTD. Manufacturer/Distributor Matthew Grassi/ Nicole Campbell Fertilizers, Micronutrients, Organics, Fungicides 80 Lafayette Avenue White Plains, NY 10603 Ph: 800.648.7626 Fx: 914.428.2780 questions@growthproducts.com HARRELL’S LLC Josh Kopera: 201.213.8693 jkopera@harrells.com Jen Schneider: 732.828.0895 jschneider@harrells.com harrells.com Ph: 800.282.8007 NUFARM AMERICAS, INC. Bryan Bolehala 102 Blackberry Drive Milford, PA 18337 Cell: (201) 874-8060 bryan.bolehala@us.nufarm.com Cam Copley 2104 Countrywood North Road Raleigh, NC 27615 Office: (630) 442-4882 cam.copley@us.nufarm.com PLANT FOOD COMPANY "The Liquid Fertilizer Experts” Dick Neufeld: 973.945.6318 Tom Weinert: 914.262.0111 Tom Pepe: 609.751.1372 Biostimulants & Other Products for Premium Turfgrass www.plantfoodco.com Ph: 800.562.1291 PFC@plantfoodco.com SEETON TURF WAREHOUSE Brian Gjelsvik 25 Roland Avenue Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054 Ph: 8562731402 briangjelsvik@seetonturf.com SITEONE LANDSCAPE SUPPLY Providing the Products & Expertise That You Need & Trust Agronomic Sales Representatives: Frank Jacheo: 732.489.1442 fjacheo@siteone.com Chad Mathieu: 914.539.5675 cmathieu@siteone.com Wayne P. Remo: 862.209.8243 wremo@siteone.com Shawn Reynolds: 401.486.9133 sreynolds@jsiteone.com STORR TRACTOR COMPANY Commercial Toro Turf & Irrigation Equipment Blair Quin, Steve Bradley, Rick Krok 3191 Highway 22 Branchburg NJ 08876 Ph: 908.722.9830 Fx: 908.722.9847 kindyk@storrtractor.com New jersey Chapter GCSAA SYNATEK Leah Gendron 737 Hagey Center Drive, Unit A Souderton, PA 18964 Ph: (267) 203-1620 Fx: (267) 203-1613 lgendron@synateksolutions. com SYNGENTA Manufacturer Lee Kozsey Plant Protectants Lee: 215.796.0409 lee.kozsey@syngenta.com TOTAL TURF GOLF SERVICES Greg Hufner 1965 Byberry Road Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 Ph: 215.426.0554 gregh@totalturfservices.com WILFRED MacDONALD, INC. Turf Equipment Bill Luthin Glenn Gallion Mike Pelrine 10 Maple Avenue, Unit 303 Pine Brook, NJ 07058 Ph: 888. 831 0891 Fx: 973.487.1333 sales@wilfredmacdonald.com Advertisers & Patrons Appreciate Your Support. TELL THEM YOU SAW THEM IN THEGREENERSIDE Contact them directly for your needs... TORO® Count on it. WHAT MATTERS WHAT Greenmaster greens mowers with EdgeSeries™ reels. Members and guests MATTERS raving about your greens. MOST Compliments from MOST the Greens Committee. What Matters Most to You Matters Most to Us. Greensmaster® Greens Mowers. We know that consistency, trueness and the appearance of your greens has a direct impact on player satisfaction, as well as your reputation and that of the golf course. That's why we equip Greenmaster walkers and riders with Toro's innovative DPA cutting units and EdgeSeries reels, to help you deliver a fantastic quality-of-cut and superior after-cut exceptional durability and enses. Visit: toro.com/Greensmaster experience, with the added benefits of reducted operating exp STC ©2017 The Toro Company. All rights reserved. Branchburg, NJ 908-722-9830 Storr Tractor Company