THE GREENERSIDE January - February 1995 • Volume 18 Number 1 Official Publication of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey Metedeconk goes platinum Editor’s Note: In the music industry success is having a record go platinum. For Metedeconk National, going platinum means that once again it has contributed signifi­ cantly to the Robert Trent Jones Endowment. Students pursuing careers in golf course management recently received a boost from Metedeconk National Golf Club in Jackson, New Jersey. Metedeconk made a $40,000 donation to the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) Foundation. The contribution, derived from the club’s annual Robert Trent Jones Invitational Team Championship, is earmarked or the GCSAA Foundation’s Robert Trent Jones Endow­ ment. Once capitalized, the endowment will provide schol­ arships for outstanding students pursuing careers in golf course management. The fund currently stands at more than $600,000. In the six years that the championship has been held, Metedeconk has raised $200,000 for the endowment. The idea for the event was conceived by Stephen G. Cadenelli, CGCS, Metedeconk general manager. Cadenelli also is a GCSAA past president. The course itself, a Robert Trent Jones layout, was the brainchild of Richard S. Sambol. Sambol’s eldest son, Herbert H. Sambol, served with Cadenelli as executive co- chairman of the event. GCSAA President Joseph G. Baidy, CGCS, said: “Once again, Metedeconk, Richard and Herbert Sambol, and Steve Cadenelli have dedicated a great deal of their time and effort to this fund. Metedeconk has been the bedrock of the Robert Trent Jones Endowment. The club’s commitment has simply been remarkable. We cannot thank the club enough for its support over the past six years.” The Robert Trent Jones Endowment is currently at about 60 percent of its capitalization target of $1 million. The endowment was established in 1987 with a substantial ed gift from the premier architect for whom it is named. In recognizing the need to assist future generations in the art and science of turfgrass management, Jones noted: “We can build the greatest courses in the world, but if they are not properly maintained, they are nothing. To golf course superintendents around the world, I owe a great debt, and every architect in America owes a great debt. “We can only continue to provide these great facilities with well-educated professionals to maintain them. That education does not come easily to all and must be supported by every aspect of this industry.” The GCSAA Foundation (formerly GCSAA Scholar­ ship & Research) is a primary source of funding for scien­ tific and educational advancement in the field of golf course management. Metedeconk has renewed its membership in the Platinum Tee Club with its recent donation. The Plati­ num Tee Club recognizes members donating $5,000 or more to the Foundation. In this issue Editorial President's Message Letters to the Editor GCSANJ News X marks the spot Follow the yellow brick road Mid term exams Back nine Preventing winter storm damage to trees 2 3 4 5 10 11 15 20 24 GCSANJ Newsletter is published six times a year by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey Edward Walsh, CGCS, Shaun Barry Ilona Gray Editor Newsletter Business Staff Ken Krausz, CGCS Contributing Writers Douglas Vogel, Steven Malikowski, CGCS Please address inquiries to: Editor, The Greenerside P.O. Box 3672, Wayne, NJ 07474-3672 For Ad Placement: Judy Policastro (201) 379-1100 Art and Typography by Trend Multimedia 908-787-0786 • FAX 908-787-7212 GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION OF NEW JERSEY 66 Morris Ave., Suite 2A Springfield, New Jersey 07081 201-379-1100 • FAX 201-379-6507 Officers: Paul Powondra, President Glenn Miller Vice President Ken Krausz,CGCS, Secretary Ron Mend, Treasurer Chris Carson, Past President Directors District 1 Michael Mongon Joe Kennedy District 2 Vincent Bracken Patrick Campbell, CCCS District 3 Fran Owsik Dennis Shea District 4 Thomas I. Grimac Steve Malikowski Chapter GSAA Delegate Wayne Remo, CGCS Executive Secretary Judy Policastro Commercial Representatives Steve Chirip Shaun Barry © 1995 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. Printed on recycled paper EDITORIAL Staying young It may not be everyone’s dream, but a lot of us work hard at staying young. To some this means keeping fit, trim, and physically staying young, but there is a mind set that says staying young is keeping yourself open to new ideas and fresh ways of looking at things. For me that’s what staying young means, and I want to share with you lots of ways to say young with The Greenerside. Eternal youth for the price of a GCSANJ membership? Impossible, you say. Read on! It takes hard work and the willingness to have fun to keep The Greenerside and GCSANJ young. When the number of commitments builds and work really intensifies, it’s very difficult to remember to think and act with an open mind. We instinctively want to fall back on the older, more tested ways, and many times the old practice is the best approach. Ultimately, however, everything changes. So to stay on top is to remain flexible and have a willingness to change, embracing new methods. Staying young is not an option for a superintendent. It is a requirement. Considering this requirement, The Greenerside has changed a little this year as well. We’re trying to say young by adding and altering. You may have noticed that the banner of the magazine has changed. We adapted Tony Rosa’s new design as amended with a format suggested by the GCSANJ Board. Tony, whose business is trendMultimedia, contributes original artwork which brightens many feature articles of The Greenerside. Artwork of this sort assists in keeping The Greenerside young. Starting with this issue, we have added a new feature, “Letters to the Editor.” This is an opportunity for our readers to express their feelings on issues or events that relate to the GCSANJ and, through their expressions, stay young themselves. Superintendents who supply articles keep The Greenerside, as well as themselves, young. Although The Greenerside enjoys the works of many regular contributors, it is the occasional contributor that helps keep us growing. The writer with the new idea or a different view of the universe opens our minds. At the last annual meeting, authors with three or more articles in The Greenerside were recognized with a plaque. Recognition, whether through the association or on the job, can be an elixir for youth. The New Year is always depicted as a baby, full of promise and poten- tial, renewing all of us. On behalf of all of the supporters of The Greenerside, I wish you a good renewal for 1995, and if you read this issue, you’ll stay young until the next one! PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE Changes and opportunities Joe or Tom or Dave. Finally, I’d like to welcome the new members of the Board, Mike Mongan from District 1 and Pat Campbell from District 2. I look forward to working with them. As we begin this year of 1995, I would very much like to thank the members of GCSANJ for electing me to serve as presi­ Paul Powondra President, GCSANJ CALENDAR dent. I certainly hope that everyone enjoyed the holiday season and may the year ahead be kind to us all, both professionally and personally. With the beginning of the year comes change, some­ thing we often try to resist. I know that I am still adjusting to the absence of a good friend, Marty Mantell, from the Board activities, although we do stay in touch. I know he was looking forward to continued service in our Associa­ tion, so when he called me back in August to tell me he would be leaving for Reston, Virginia, I could sense the mixture of emotions he felt. Of course, I had my own mixed feelings as well. Naturally I was happy for his career advancement, yet I regretted the loss of his special brand of warmth, humor, and absolute commitment of service to our Association. After reading his farewell message in the last issue of The Greenerside, I had to call him to tease about the “voice of reason” comment he made about me, noting that former New York Mayor Ed Koch calls himself that on his radio call-in show. Let’s just say that Ed and I are not of the same political persuasion. In any event, we’ll miss you, Marty! Another change I find myself dealing with is the fact that Dave Pease is no longer a Board member. Good grief, Dave’s been a part of the Board forever. My oldest copies of our newsletter only go back to 1986, and they list Dave as a District 3 Director. By his own recollection, he got started in 1983. Suffice it to say that Dave’s done his share. But while Dave is not officially on the Board, the change in his status provides him an opportunity to focus in on a special concern of his, namely our Field Day. While Joe Kennedy and Tom Grimac will continue as co-chairs of this important committee, Dave will be using his consider­ able energies and oratorical sktillsh to convey the message of e importantance of the Field Day to our Association. Not tdo iminish from all the others on that committee who work so long and hard, but Dave is on a mission this year, and I urge you to listen to his message. Conversely, your ideas and thoughts are valued, so please don’t hesitate to contact • February 2-3 • February 8-9 Advanced Turfgrass Management Sympo­ sium: Turfgrass Disease Update on Rhizoctonia and Pythium. Office of Con­ tinuing Professional Education, Rutgers Uni­ versity, New Brunswick, NJ. Contact Monica Bell, (908) 932-9271. New Jersey Nursery Landscape Association’s Trade Show, Somerset, NJ. Contact NJNLA, Howard Davis, (609) 291- 7070. GCSAA 66th Interna­ tional Golf Course Conference and Show, Moscone Center, San Francisco, CA. Contact GCSAA, (913) 841-2240. • February 24 - March 5 NJ Flower and Garden • February 20-27 • March 1 Show, Garden State Exhibit Center, Somerset, NJ. Contact Todd Jameson, (908) 919-7660. NJ Landscape 95, Mead­ owlands Convention Center, NJ. 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Contact Skip Powers, (201) 664-6310. Letters to the Editor Dear Editor: pesticides out of existence you will find that they are on more of a social agenda than anything else. We are the experts on the golf course, always have been, and always will be. The true facts are on our side, and yet, we just can’t seem to be able to get them out. At the present time there are two things going on that could play into our hands in a positive way. The new commissioner of the DEP, and in general, state government, is showing signs of being more friendly to industry (yes, golf is an industry). The pesticide regulations are also being rewritten at this time. We have an opportunity to have an input by reducing government and reducing the over­ regulation of the pesticide code. At this point, we have an ear that is willing to listen in Trenton; are we going to take advantage? The family of Bert Jones would like to extend their appreciation to all who participated in any way in the “Bert Jones Open” on October 11, 1994. Please accept our thanks for a wonderful day and evening and a lovely tribute to Bert. Robert Dickison Dear Editor: Sincerely, Mrs. Gerry Jones Editor's Note: Bert Jones has been part of the golf course superintendents ’ scene since the early 1960s. He started Grass Roots with Ken Kubik over 15 years ago. Bert has been a great help to many superintendents and was always ready to give in any way he could. Several years ago, Bert suffered a stroke and is now bedridden. Dear Editor: This is a follow-up of our conversation in Atlantic City. These are just a few of my thoughts of where the superin­ tendents association is heading or not heading. Maybe I have been out of the loop for so long that I don’t know what is going on. If that is the case, then someone isn’t communi­ cating very well. There doesn’t seem to be any political stance within the association in regard to our environment. Let me explain by asking a few simple questions. Where does the association stand on the use of pesticides and water? Who are the experts, and who has the knowledge on the golf course environment? Where should the general public be looking for answers and to whom? Where are these answers coming from today, and who is the spokesperson? I think that the answers to these questions are that we are taking a back seat to the people who have an agenda of eliminating all pesticides regardless of their benefit to society. When you start to scratch the surface of those organizations that want to regulate our use of water and While reading the Nov.-Dec. The Greenerside the other day, I came upon the “Do Something” article on page 15 and immediately turned to my peg board where I keep the following “Common Poisonous Plants” list. My daughter, Alyssa, brought it home from kindergarten last year, and I have kept it readily accessible ever since. Perhaps this large and more complete informative list could be beneficial to others. Thanks, Joe Henry, CGCS Cranbury GC Editor’s Note: Any reader desiring a copy of the list may contact the editor at (201) 595-7172. The list was originally printed in “Toward Better Camping, ” a publication of the American Camping Association.) JOSEPH M. MERCADANTE, Inc. PAVING, EXCAVATING Millburn, NJ 201-467-8622 • DRAINAGE SYSTEMS . TEE BUILDING • GRADING GCSANJ NEWS WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS ON A ROLL AT MONTCLAIR G.C. The Greenerside welcomes the following new GCSANJ members. We invite you to call up and contribute news and stories. by Shaun Barry New Members Robert R. Anthony Ron Barnard David Bohm RMA Horticultural Services, Inc., Dist. 2 Professional Green & Turf Aerification, Inc. Bohm’s Sod Farm, Dist. 4 Joseph Castelli Maplewood Country Club, Dist. 2 Michael C. Creech Sleepy Hollow Golf Club Michael S. Famularo Linwood Country Club, Dist. 4 Andrew D. Franks Links Golf Club, Dist. 4 Thomas Galbiati Eastland Golf Course, Dist. 4 Richard D. Johnson Top Soil Depot, Inc., Dist. 2 Blair W. Quin Wilfred MacDonald, Inc., Dist. 2 James C. Richardson Fairmount Country Club, Dist. 2 Blue Heron Pines Golf Club, Dist. 4 Jeff Riggs John W. Schoellner Non-Resident John S. Thomson Ponderlodge Golf Course, Dist. 4 Membership Change Greg Armbruster Medford Lakes Country Club John Van Vorst Department of Parks, Dist. 1 B-l C C C B B-l B-l A C C B-l B-l A B B-l to B D (Resigned) It has been two months since our championship was held at Montclair G.C. My therapist thinks that more time is needed, but The Greenerside deadline is in two days. I have to take the chance and remember what happened on Oct. 11, 1994—the day my nightmares started. Montclair G.C. rolled out the red carpet for us. They couldn’t do enough. Alan Gamble is their general manager, and it is easy to see why he is so highly thought of at the club. The lunch and dinner were memorable, and the staff paid attention to every detail. This happened so smoothly but I know how hard everyone was working for our benefit. They deserve the sincere thanks we offer. Somewhere in between lunch and dinner was the Continued on page 6 Construction and MORIE Golf Course Maintenance Materials Unmatched Quality and Service • Bunker sands • Root zone materials • Topdressings • Decorative stone • Crushed stone • Drainage materials • Fill Dirt • Top Soil The Morie Company, Inc. A South Jersey Industries Company Box 463, Woodbine, NJ 08270 800-732-0068 Fax 609/861-2234 GCSANJ NEWS Continued from page 5 course. It is a beautiful golf course. Hosting national and local tournaments has brought well deserved acclaim. Gerald Fountain said that, “If God has made a better course, I haven’t seen it.” We used all four nines and everyone agreed with Gerald, myself included. So what was my problem? My troubles started on the first hole. Putting for an eagle, my caddie told me that it broke right. It went left with authority, and I had a five-putt green. Four putts on the second hole, and I was gone. My hands were shaking so badly, I had to use both to write my score on the card. The 90-meter ski-jump at Lake Placid looked better than a two- foot downhill slider. The course was just too good for me. What an experience! The greens were absolutely perfect. Greg Vadala and his staff should be extremely proud. Especially since these conditions happen every day. Even when my ball left the green and got to the fairway, it rolled smoothly. My therapist’s accountant wants me to be invited back and I agree. I would try to join if I could figure out how to put the initiation fee on my expense account. As usual the rest of the 120 golfers did not have the same problems that I experienced. Bob Prickett (81) placed his name on the Sherwood Moore Cup as he edged out Tom Grimac (82), Andy Drevyanko, Jr. (82), and Glenn Gallion (83). Rich Brandel won the Dr. Paul Sartoretto Cup as Wendell Beakley (69) earned the Dr. Henry Indyk Cup. Wendell’s score also won the B Flight. He was followed by Wayne Remo (70), Jack Martin (70), and Matt Dobbie (70). Jim McNally (73) took the C Flight. He defeated John O’Keefe (73), Gary Arlio (79), and Pat O’Neill (82). A 69 by Roy Griffiths gave him the victory in the Commercial Flight. Rob Werley (70), Jim Pelrine (70), and Jay McKenna (71) will have to wait until next year. Closest to the pin honors went to Jeff Theibault, Paul Granger, Pete Siegel, and Mel Waldron. W. Remo and Bob Carson had the longest drives. Our skin winners were John Betts, Kevin (bounce it off a tree) Driscoll, J. McKenna, Phil O’Brien, B. Prickett, Carl Quazza, and Phil Scott with one apiece. Dave Diskant had two. The District Championship crown was captured by District IV. These winners were R. Brandel (80), B. Prickett (81), T. Grimac (82), A. Drevyanko, Jr. (82), Dave Mitchell (86) and Doug Larson (87). In the flighted long drive contest, our winners were John Farrell, Bob Dwyer and P. O’Neill. They received checks from Rob Finnesey of Tree Tech, who also donated an equal amount to our charity event. The beautiful plaques were once again donated by Clyde Ashton and Stan Stevenson of Double Eagle. The last competition of the busy day was the finals of the season-long Two-Man Team Championship. Bob Prickett and Tom Grimac defended their title. They eased past a determined, but solo, Paul Geer. His partner, Fran Owsik, was unable to attend. Mr. Prickett’s explanation of Fran’s absence was a bit more colorful than the truth. Fran had not lost his golf balls. He was in Italy and did have a great time. Thanks to all of the companies that donated money for the signs, and thanks again to Montclair G.C. Without them, none of this would have been possible. PAVELEC BROS. Golf Course Construction Co. Inc. 98 Evergreen Avenue Nutley, NJ 07110 Specializing in all phases of Golf Course Construction Field Drainage/Landscaping Excavation Tony Pavelec (201) 667-1643 Emil Pavelec (201) 939-6182 GCSANJ NEWS MULTIPLE WINNERS by Shaun Barry This little piece should have been included in the October meeting summary because that is where it hap­ pened. I decided to keep it separate because I didn’t want it to get lost. As we read off the winners that day, Andy Drevyanko, Jr.’s name came first. He had won the Sherwood Moore Cup by one shot over Bob Prickett. He had the trophy, the plaques, and the prizes. He was a worthy champion. On the ride home, he went over the round with the superintendent who had kept score. Andy immediately realized that a mistake had been made. He was the only one who knew but not for long. He had the telephone operator interrupt my phone call for this emergency. His only concern was how this would affect his team’s victory in the district champion­ ship. Not how it would affect his superintendent champion­ ship victory. He has had two U.S. presidents pin medals of honor on his chest. Obviously he is a man of principle. Bob Prickett was our winner that day, but so was golf, and so was Mr. Andy Drevyanko, Jr. Shackamaxon as superintendent. During this period of his career Gene attended turf courses at Rutgers. In 1973 he joined Storr Tractor Company as a sales representative, where he has had an excellent record. Gene was recognized in 1984 with the Toro’s Master Salesman Award. In 1994 he sold over two million dollars for Storr. Gene plans retirement this January and will be spending more time at his hobbies of golf and woodworking and enjoying the company of his wife, Sybil, their three grown children, and five grandchildren. Would you believe, a drummer and piper at our 4th Presidents Ball! GENE TARULLI - TWENTY-FIVE YEAR MEMBERSHIP AWARD 4TH ANNUAL PRESIDENT'S BALL AND DINNER DANCE by Sky Bergen At the annual meeting of the GCSANJ held on November 10 at Hollywood Golf Club, Gene Tarulli of Storr Tractor Company was presented with this year’s only twenty-five year membership award. Gene started his golf course career at the age of 15 at Colonia Country Club. In J 959, he became the super­ intendent at Green Knoll. After nine years, he returned to Colonia CC as superinten­ dent. He held that post for six years and then went to Sky Bergen giving us Gene Tarulli's biography of his twenty-five year membership in the GCSANJ. Set in the comfort of the Barclay Hotel on the beach at Belmar, this year’s affair had several surprises. The enter­ tainment included a band that seemed to coax everyone from their seats. Then, during the break, those attending had the opportunity to listen to representatives of the Washing­ ton Memorial Pipe Band. That’s right, a piper and drummer played the well known bagpipe music and received a warm and enthusiastic applause from the crowd. Skip Cameron was presented the Distinguished Service Award for 1994 by Dave Pease, past president of the GCSANJ. Skip had a running start on this award having begun his career in golf at the tender age of twelve. After an education and stint with the US Air Force, he returned to the greens in 1957 at Baltusrol. He has enjoyed working at a series of clubs since then and has been the superintendent of Canoe Brook since 1974. His efforts with the GCSANJ are well known and long standing. He has served as president in Continued on page 8 GCSANJ NEWS Continued from page 7 Skip Cameron accepting the GCSANJ 1994 Distinguished Service Award. Past President Dave Pease did the honors. 1973-74 and has been a member of the GCSAA and METGCSA. The event was an opportu­ nity to recognize the past presidents of the association and to celebrate with one another the end of a season and the beginning of the new Board, which was inducted the day before at the annual meeting. Harry Harsin is to be commended for hosting this affair and coordinating with the Barclay Hotel to everyone’s satisfaction. GCSANJ 1994-95 SCHOLARSHIPS by Dennis Shea The 1994-95 GCSANJ scholarships were recently awarded to three very deserving recipients. They are: Joshua H. Honing - currently completing his degree in Plant Science at Rutgers. Joshua is ranked number one in his class and is active in several organizations. He was president of the Cook College Chapter of the Soil & Water Conservation Society of America, at which time he was instrumental in establishing that organization’s scholarship program. We congratulate Joshua on his award and look forward to the benefit of his energy and drive in our asso­ ciation. Michael Candeloro - also enrolled at Rutgers in Plant Science, to be completed in Spring 1995. Michael’s in­ volvement at Rutgers Turf Research Farm during the summer has further exemplified his commitment to the turf industry and his future. Congratulations to Michael on his achievement. Jeffery Steager - enrolled at Rutgers in the two-year Turf Program. He is presently ranked in the top ten of his class. Jeff has received a ringing endorsement from his boss, Superintendent Ken Thompson at Stone Harbor Golf Club. Jeff’s initiative and efforts at Stone Harbor have propelled him through the ranks to his present position of assistant superintendent, and he’s doing a fine job for Ken. Congratulations, Jeff! The GCSANJ is committed to the future of our associa­ tion and its members through scholarships and research investments, which ultimately will benefit all of us. Our future will be dictated by these investments of today. 1 Paul Powondra (left), incoming president, accepting the gavel from Chris Carson at the annual meeting. Rutgers turf program expanding It looks like 1995 will be another year of growth for the Rutgers University Cook College turf programs. . Rutgers will be adding several new staff positions including a Fine Turf Scientist, a Turfgrass Ecologist/ Physiologist, a Turfgrass Pathologist, and a Turfgrass Breeder. These positions are at the professorial level and include teaching, research, and extension responsibilities. The plan is to fill them during 1995, according to Dr. Bruce Clarke, director for Interdisciplinary Studies in Turfgrass Science. Rutgers turf programs are recognized worldwide for their contributions to turf science, adding tremendous support to projects focused on New Jersey turf problems. by Shaun Barry Wait until next year The Met Team Championship Tournament once again was played in New Jersey. The site was the beautiful Essex County G.C., and it made Ed Walsh the only repeat host in the history of the event. This tournament attracts teams from Washington, DC up to Albany, NY. Great golf and great fun are the order of the day. Ed had promised to keep the pins in the middle and not speed up the greens. True to his word, this course was by Shaun Barry Expo 94 a success Expo once again was held in Atlantic City. It seemed to have exceeded expectations. Both the trade show and seminars were crowded, and the exhibitor across from me had people lined up to get in. Is this any way to run a trade show? I think so. challenging and fair. The Met Association did win the event but three other teams were within five strokes. Philadelphia was second again, this time by one shot. Northeast (Albany) and New Jersey were tied, and we lost on a match of cards. Playing for New Jersey were: Ed Walsh, Bob Prickett, Angelo Petraglia, Ian Kunesch, Harry Harsin, Tom Grimac, John Farrell, and Shaun Barry. This really is a good team, but we take the best each year. Practice in 1995 so you can be part of this day. It will be worth the effort. In fact, I was in Norfolk two weeks later. A superinten­ dent remembered me. He had come up to Expo and could not get over how well the show is run. The educational portion is what got him to attend, and it will bring him back. He asked me to congratulate the committee on a job well done. They really do make a tough job look real easy. Now if they will only provide transportation to the Irish Pub! Tee & Green & In Between Whether your challenge is a dead­ line, a tee, a green, a fairway, a rough, or a bunker surround, we have a blend that fits your needs. We understand the variety of problems you face because we have spent a great deal of time listening to golf course superintendents. As a result, Tee & Green Sod offers the most complete product line available to the golf course industry— even a four-foot wide washed roll! Give us a call for information about our selection of products, and our unique harvesting and washing techniques. •Bentgrass •Bluegrass •Washed sod •Bluegrass-Ryegrass •Bluegrass-Fine Fescue 401/789-8177 • 401/789-3895 (fax) • PO Box 418, Exeter, RI 02822 MARKS THE SPOT by Ed Walsh In my last column, I mentioned how all the birds (children) have left the nest or “Home Alone.” I told you how much I was looking forward to this time, but once it came I was really sorry. Now I want to let you know one of the very important reasons why I am so depressed. I can’t operate the VCR. First, let’s be real honest as we read this further. If you are one of those people who can operate a VCR, stop reading right now. I don’t want you to have a laugh at my, or what I suspect is many others, expense. We all remember when we got our first remote control TV. Probably somewhere back in the early seventies. The remote was simple and certainly easy to use. Heck, I could figure it out then. Well, within a few years VCRs came along, and everybody got one of those too. Trouble was their remote control gizmo was a little more complicated. You had to spend a little time to figure this new one out. Fortunately, we were able to get it right after a period of time, and most of us could work both the TV and VCR in harmony. Well, as the years went by, we got bigger, better, and more complicated TVs and VCRs and the fun began. Now you have three remote control things because you need the new one to work the new TV, the next oldest one to work the VCR, and you keep the oldest one because you figure it’s got to be needed, and usually is, for something. Also the newest remote looks like something that NASA developed for the space program. More buttons and options than a 747 instrument panel. Fortunately, about this time our kids were getting old enough to work the VCRs, TVs, and just about anything else related to computerization around the house. Heck, they were computer literate from the second grade. I assume if you were like me you let them do whatever it was they did to make the whole thing work. Now that was fine until they were ready to leave home and go out on their own and conquer the world. Hey, conquering the world is just what we all want them to do, but not go so far away that they can’t come back on a daily basis to start, run, and stop the TV and VCR. I guess I have only one option left. From this point on I’ll have to include operating TV and VCR equipment in any assistant superintendent job description I send out. I’ll have to be somewhat creative with this one. Maybe tell the applicants that operating the TV and VCR at the superintendent’s home is worth five credits toward the GCSAA Certification Program. I don’t know about all the National Board members, but Bruce Williams and George Renault will back me up if nobody else finds out. Especially if I promise to keep Malikowski from bringing a camera into the exhibition hall at the national conference. I do have one additional note of interest, though. I called Chris Malikowski, and she told me her husband can’t operate their VCR without help either. Boy, would that be the ultimate embarrassment if he could. Joint venture... Saturday night live! Don’t miss it. You have got to save this date: February 25th at 7 p.m. at the Hotel Headquarters for GCSAA - The San Francisco Marriott. This is the place and time for the fabulous GCSANJ Joint Hospitality Suite. And how sweet it is! This is a tentative announcement. Get in touch with Wayne Remo or Steve Malikowski for room number and other details. Be there or be square! by Dave Pease Follow the yellow brick road The road to GCSANJ success is not paved with gold, but with hard work and the participation of re­ sources. Hard work, yah, we all know what hard work is, especially in this profession. But what is this to go further as members and have the controlling factions of our golf facilities (golf course superintendents) in attendance to validate our vendor’s participation with Field Day. Thirty years ago our members took the lead on fueling “participation of resources?” The Association’s greatest resource is its membership. It is the barometer that governs our success. As with most associations, 90% of the work load is accomplished by 10% of its membership. Believe me, this is not a negative, but reality when it comes to voluntary enthusiasm. It is apparent that "Field Day enthu­ siasm ” for superintendent participation had reached an all time low from this past year’s attendance records. This leaves me to believe that our membership is not cognizant of how extremely important this day is in our financial survival for a successful association. The participation of golf course mechanics and field personnel is an indication of patronage. This gesture of support allows those who work in our operations an oppor­ tunity to witness the vast network of support systems behind the golf course industry. But, and it is a big BUT, we need We all know what's waiting for us at the end of the rainbow, and in order to get there, we need to get out and participate. our Association needs through financial stability. Their innovative and progressive thinking laid the foundation for a successful path to prosperity. One need only look at our financial statement to see how important Field Day is to our Association. We have amassed over a hundred thousand dollars in total assets. The Financial Security of GCSANJ is due in large part to the revenues generated from Field Day. Continued on page 13 Providence & Dominant Creeping Bentgrass Champion On Course Ryegrass Professional Turf Fertilizer West Coast Affiliate SEED RESEARCH OF OREGON, INC. P.O. BOX 373 DAYTON, NJ 08810 800-522-4769 Committed to providing reliable, dependable service and the best in quality lawn and garden products. For information call Twin Light at 800-522-4769 and ask for Gerald Fountain. The night before Christmas: GCSANJ style If Skip really gave up this job you see, next year it will be taken by Pete Pedrazzi; Pete’s going to leave Crestmont after thirty plus years, Skip and Pete both retiring who’s had better careers? I don’t know any better than them when it comes to growing grass, even more importantly, they do everything with class. At this Christmas season as this poem’s end is near, I want everyone to know and make it absolutely clear, We wish you both the best in whatever direction you take, but do stay around here, lots of golf dates we’ll make. I still need you two in this column to bash, but most importantly, on the golf course you’re both easy cash. A healthy and happy holiday season and New Year to you all. by Ed Walsh ’Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even Ken Krausz; The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, up next to Mike Mongon’s almost clean underwear; The grandchildren were nestled all snug in their bed, dreaming about Santa Dickison, you know, the one we call Red; And Mary in her kerchief, and I in my cap had just settled down, unfortunately only to nap. When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, sounded like Wayne Remo falling off a fire truck ladder; Away to the window I flew like a flash, tripped over the dog and fell on my_____ ; When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, a gigantic Manhattan, I knew Cameron was near; He was riding a sleigh, pulled by reindeer, you see, one looked like Gene Mack, another like Dave McGhee. More rapid than eagles his courses they came, And he whistled and shouted and called them by name: Now, Kubik! Now, Koonz! Now Grimac and Prickett! We have a plaque for Mantell, where will we stick it? They stopped on a roof, oh, I hope they don’t fall, ‘cause inside the place was a good guy, Pat Wall. Skip tried the chimney first, but his girth made it hard, so he jumped off the roof and went through the yard. In through the back door to the room with the tree, this work wasn’t easy for the recent retiree; He got back in the sleigh and as he traveled he sang, his next stop was Rutgers Golf Course and his good friend, Joe Spang; He was starting to get cold so he got warm by a fire, still had a lot of stuff left which to leave at the Dwyers; Skip’s time was running short so he had to start cracking, which leads up to his next stop, the family of Vinnie Bracken. While he completed his tasks we heard his wise crack, I am not doing this any more, I’ll leave it to Jack. As he gave that more thought he let himself know, when was the last time Jack was here with the snow; We all know Jack’s schedule we’ve all heard his speech, if you see him in the winter, it’s in Ft. Myers Beach. Follow the road Continued from page 11 In addition to having financial stability, this day has allowed our Association to prosper through financing the cost of additional membership service committees, such as our “government relations,” “club relations,” “public relations,” and “capital expenditures.” Field Day provides funding for those committees in addition to subsidizing GCSA research grants and scholarship opportunities. Field Day provides our Association a legitimate fund raising opportunity in the form of equipment field demon­ strations, tech representation of materials used in our industry, innovative product introductions, and the verifica­ tion of funding for GCSANJ Turfgrass Research activity. Participation with monthly meetings and educational seminars is at an all time high. Obviously, proof that we have a very active Association. We need to bottle that enthusiasm and expend “participation energy” to the most important function this Association sponsors, FIELD DAY. We, as superintendents of this most progressive Associa­ tion, need to support this day through participation by patronizing our commercial vendors. You, personally, may not need to see these demonstra­ tions, nor visit with your Ag Tech Reps, nor witness the research activity that is taking place through GCSANJ research, but your Association needs you to. The success of your Association depends on your participation with Field Day. On our journey down the yellow brick road, it is not Dorothy and her trio of friends we follow, but turfgrass research, scholarship opportunities for future superinten­ dents, and financial stability we seek to join in our quest to professional standing. Consider this note a reminder from the Wicked Witch of the West, “kickin’ butt” to get superintendents out to Field Day. We all know what’s waiting for us at the end of the rainbow, and in order to get there, we need to get out and participate. Bottom line: ALL YOU NEED TO DO TO PARTICI­ PATE IN FIELD IS SHOW UP. I urge all superintendent members to take three hours out of one day, out of one year, and get out to Field Day next year! SPECIAL OFFER! TEST DRIVE A DUAL Call us for a FREE three-day tryout in your workshop.* □ We’ll bring the machine right to you and pick it up. □ No charge. □ Your chance to precision grind your reels on the world’s best spin grinder. * Subject to scheduling and machine availability. EXPRESS DUAL Storr Tractor Company 3191 US Highway 22, Somerville, New Jersey 08876 908-722-9830 by Steve Malikowski, CGCS The truth leaks out After serious consideration and soul searching, I have decided to return to the literary staff of The Greenerside. This has been a difficult decision for me, but I feel Ilona needs help in her quest of a repeat newsletter award from GCSAA. There are a few important reasons why I have decided to return at this time. First of all, and most important, is the need and necessity of our membership to be exposed to the truth. This is not only our right as explained in the Constitu­ tion of the United States, it is also our responsibility. Secondly, to prove that two wrongs do not make a right, The Greenerside newsletter awards seem to have come more often with Ed Walsh and myself piloting the word processor. (By the way, speaking of pilot reminds me of a Paul Powondra story that I will relay later in this newslet­ ter.) Third, Nigel Wisskowski has taken a job working for the WESAYSO (pronounced wee say so) company some­ where in the Pacific Rim. He asked me not to divulge his position because it is a covert operation. (Oh, what the heck, he’s gone so he’ll never know I let this out.) Actually, Nigel has gone through cosmetic surgery and now looks like he Nigel Wisskowski has taken a Job work­ ing for the WESAYSO (pronounced wee say so/ company somewhere in the Pacific Rim. He asked me not to divulge his position because It is a covert operation. could be my twin. Lucky guy! He is an undercover photogra­ pher stealing trade secrets from a well known turf equipment company. His photos will be used by the WESAYSO com­ pany to develop an overpriced, over-engineered, over-publi­ cized triplex greensmower that will be able to compact your soil, create triplex rings, stripe your greens (with hydraulic fluid), and raise you and your equipment manager’s (the politically correct way of saying mechanic) blood pressures. The truth marches on by Steve Malikowski, CGCS On December 7, 1994, the anniversary of Pearl Harbor, the GCSANJ Board of Directors met at Princeton Meadows Country Club for the annual reorganizational meeting. This is traditionally a dinner meeting whereby the Board goes out afterward to a local restaurant of the president’s choosing. Paul Powondra had selected the Cranbury Inn, a wonderful jacket-and-tie type of place not far from his course, and when some of the new members of the Board realized that it was someone else’s treat, money immediately became no object. Shortly after ordering hors d’oeuvres and Heinekins, the “war stories” began. Literally! From around the table began the history of some of our Board members. Did you know that Joe Kennedy flew in helicopters in Korea? That cer­ tainly explains a lot about Joe. After hearing about Joe’s experiences and then Glenn Miller’s Desert Storm adven­ tures flying in Air Force cargo planes, I decided to ask Paul Powondra, whom I knew had been in some branch of the military, what he had done. Well, I had already received some information about Paul from Ilona, who had told me of some of his flying experiences, but I was totally unprepared for his response to my question, “Paul, what did you do in the service?” “Oh, I was a spy.” Well, let me tell you that this is not what we expected from the Sta Puff Marshmallow Guy. (Just kid­ ding, Paul!) I had to repeat my question because we thought he was kidding. NOT! ... I mean, NYET! As our conversation proceeded, we learned that he had served in the Air Force, but under the direction of a govern­ I'll bet no one in our Association ever knew how much Paul and I had in common. Maybe we should nickname him "Nigel." ment agency similar to but more secretive than the CIA. Paul actually spent a lot of time flying around the borders of the old “Evil Empire” and speaks Russian as well as I speak English, and is familiar with several different dialects of some Asian Languages I have never even heard of. Surprise, surprise. Who would have ever guessed? I’ll bet no one in our Association ever knew how much Paul and I had in common. Maybe we should nickname him “Nigel.” Maybe we could all learn something from this. Maybe we could learn not to underestimate people we don’t know. Maybe Ed Walsh could learn something from this ... like writing his Greenerside articles with disappearing ink. Editor’s Note: Paul Powondra suggests that Steve’s com­ ments be taken with a few shovels full of salt. by Dr. Bob Mid term exams It’s Quiz Time from Dr. Bob. The subject is Rock and Roll and Golf Trivia. I know you’ll all do well because I have seen GCSANJ members rock and roll at the Annual President’s Ball and Dinner Dance. You know the format. Simply match the phrase in Column A with the phrase in Column B. The correct responses and brief explanation can be found on page 19. No fair peeking until you complete the test. COLUMN A COLUMN B A. Arnold Palmer B. 19th Hole C. Metedeconk National GC D. Aeration E. Caddies F. The Green’s Committee G. Solanum H. Spring 1994 I. Rule #23 J. Rule #23 K. White Grub Complex L. Pickering M. Ridgewood/Ho-Ho-Kus GC N. Junior Tournament O. Convention P. Not Wooden Q. Golf Course Work Credo Rule R. No fungus here September's song Sing a song of crabgrass in a field of rye. Pandelions and chickweed enough to make you cry. When the summer's over and thistles catch and cling, that's the time you start to wish you'd weeded in the spring. Editor's Note: This anonymous poem hangs in the office of John Buechner. John, employed by Lawn Doctor, serves this year as the president­ elect for the Professional Lawn Care Association of America and vice president of the Alliance for Environmental Concerns. Golf Construction Inc. 1. The Fab Four 2. Red Hot Chili Peppers 3. Bruce Springstein 4. KISS 5. Tony Bennett 6. Rolling Stones 7. Alice Cooper 8. En Vogue 9. Nir1vana 0. Jackson Five 11. Nine Inch Nails 12. Metallica 13. The King 14. Boyz 2 Men 15. Four Seasons 16. Motown 17. Snoop Doggy Dog 18. Ice-T Scoring: 18 You are a rock and roll and golf savant 14-17 You can be a DJ on 92.3 (Classic Rock) 10-13 You listen to the weather more than music 5-9 You probably don’t fit in your blue jeans Less than 5 - Buy a radio 1 Turn-Key Golf Course Construction 908-469-7782 TEE AND GREEN CONSTRUCTION DRAINAGE . RETAINING WALLS IRRIGATION . PONDS OTTERBINE INSTALLATION MEMBER OF NJ TURF GRASS ASSOC. & GCSANJ Fall and winter session graduates celebrate at Annual Turf Awards Banquet by Missy Marciante Assistant Program Coordinator Cook College T urfgrass professionals and alumni gathered once again to send off another graduating class at the Fifth Annual Rutgers Professional Golf Turf Man­ agement School and Alumni Awards Banquet. This year ’s raduation included the first Fall Session, started in 1992 g due to the increasing demands of the industry. Top gradu­ ates of the class received certificates of completion which indicated Honors, High Honors, and Highest Honors for their outstanding performance in the program. Each class president made presentations and distributed awards to their classmates. Ned Lipman, director of the Cook College Office of Continuing Professional Education, was the recipient of the fifth Rutgers Turfgrass Alumni Association Achievement Award. Thomas Ritchie, president of the Association, presented Ned with the award along with Joe Bianco, Steven Kristoph, Mike Mongon, and Deena Amont. This honor was initiated in 1990 by the Association to recognize those who have made a significant contribution to the turfgrass industry. Ned Lipman has been a supporter of the industry for over 16 years. During these years, he strived for increased professionalism of the industry by developing continuing professional education programs and providing lifelong learning opportunities for turfgrass professionals. Dennis DeSanctis hosted the evening as the Master of Ceremonies and was also the featured guest speaker. Presentations were also made by Dr. Richard Caton, executive director of the New Jersey Turfgrass Association; Thomas Ritchie, president of the Rutgers Turfgrass Alumni Fall 1994 graduating class. Winter 1994 graduating class. Association; Chris Carson, president of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey; Dr. Bruce Clarke, director of the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies in Turfgrass Science; and Ned Lipman, director of the Cook College Office of Continuing Professional Education. The event was sponsored by the Rutgers Turfgrass Alumni Association, the New Jersey Turfgrass Association, Storr Tractor, and Wilfred MacDonald. GCSAA education program hits historic mark For the first time in history, the number of currently active superintendents certified by the Golf Course Superin­ tendents Association of America (GCSAA) has reached 1,400 individuals. This represents approximately 20 percent of the association’s class A membership. The title, Certified Golf Course Superintendent (CGCS), recognizes outstanding and progressive superintendents. GCSAA instituted the certification program in 1971. GCSAA President Joseph G. Baidy, CGCS, said, “This is a proud accomplishment in our history. From its incep­ tion, GCSAA has placed continuing education and the dissemination of information foremost on its list of objec­ tives. Reaching this milestone is truly indicative of our members’ commitment to advancing their profession and enriching the game of golf.” Continued on page 26 INTRODUCING NEW ADVANCED SPRAY-DRY DACONIL ULTREX FUNGICIDE • Mixes fast, won’t settle out and won’t clog nozzles. • Improved control of tough Brown patch plus equally exceptional control of 14 other major turf diseases and algal scum. • Virtually dust-free, low-foaming formulation makes handling easier. • Pours completely out of the bag, so there’s no waste or need to rinse bags before disposal. ISK BIOSCIENCES ISK Biosciences Corporation Turf & Specialty Products Division 1523 Johnson Ferry Rd., Suite 250 Marietta, GA 30062 Always follow label directions carefully when using turf and ornamentals plant protection products. ™Trademark of ISK Biosciences Corporation. A short guide for miniature golf course management This past summer I had the opportunity to play on one of the more prestigious miniature golf courses on the Jersey shore. I introduced myself as a fre­ quent contributor to “The Greenerside” in the hope of subspecies by taxonomists and has been classified as a cultivar. IMP scouts should inspect the course and physi­ cally remove these. No herbicide is required. During evening play hours, a second weed species, Cannabis sativa, can be found on certain courses. The handbook recommends that the management immediately contact the by Dr. Bob getting a complimentary game or at least a better tee time. The manager, who had not heard of “The Greenerside” or of the GCSANJ, made me wait my turn in line, and pay the full greens fee. Fortunately there was no caddie necessary or golf cart requirement and no club membership fees. The entire situation struck me as I introduced myself as a frequent contributor to "The Creenerside" in the hope of getting a complimentary game or at least a better tee time. The manager who had not heard of "The Greenerside" or of the GCSANJ, made me wait my turn in line, and pay the full greens fee. one large opportunity! Hundreds of miniature courses up and down the shore and none of them practicing scientific management. Think of the training grants, registration fees, and new business opportunities if miniature golf were held to some environmental standard. I am on the cutting edge of this sort of thing and have already begun working on my manual for the miniature golf course. Once it’s completed, I plan to apply for an EPA grant to pilot a regulatory program next summer. Don’t laugh. I’ll be on the beach with federal money behind me. Every grant needs a buzzword and mine will be “IMP” (Integrated Management Practices for the miniature golf course). A heavily trafficked par-36 course cries out for this type of attention. Don’t snicker! Just because it’s less than a quarter acre does not mean that it is not subjected to some sort of insect, weed, and fungus pressure. I have scouted dozens of courses and concluded that these problems are real. Hmm. I wonder if my investment in this scouting can be recouped in my EPA grant? Polyturf Management: This is simple. Keep it glued down and keep it green. Replace when wear is evident. All of the cultivars of polyturf used in New Jersey are low lying perennial types. They have compact crowns and shallow roots, often appearing more woven to the mat than as a true root. The actual manual will have detailed drawings and fancy Latin names for all of the parts. DEP, or is it DEA, hotline for this weed. Fungus: Fungus is a continuous bother on these courses. Although it does not attack the “polyturf’ directly, it leaves a slimy and often slippery playing surface. I sent several samples to the Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Laboratory and obtained the following recommendation. Use of prescription or over the counter athlete foot treatments will provide temporary relief from itching and can be helpful adjuncts to an overall treatment of the problem. Reduction of moisture and avoidance of contact with feet will also be required. Insects: Termites on the wood supporting the polyturf can be a problem. For this, contact any professional with a category 7B certification. The real problems are treating the woolly polyester crown borer and the short shrifted root weevil. These are species endemic to New Jersey and are considered so rare that they are endangered. No treatment is permitted since, like my miniature golf course manage­ ment manual, they only inhabit summer fantasies. Weeds: There are two basic weeds that are found on miniature golf courses. The first is Nicotiana tobaccum which occurs either as the filterum subspecies or the regular subspecies. The minty smelling variety is not considered a Waiting for the warm sunshine... Dr. Bob. by Ralph E. Engel, Professor Emeritus Fertilizer plan for the 1995 season Turf management programs should respect the importance of minimizing the annual bluegrass content of golf greens, tees, and fairways. Now is the time to plan for the 1995 spring fertilizer program wh has the least chance of turf failure and does not enhance annual bluegrass. Some guidelines are: 1,000 square feet is a suitable rate. Nitrogen stimulation of annual bluegrass at this stage favors vegetative growth rather than seedheads. 5. Small applications of slow release nitrogen can be used ich starting in late June through early August after the hot wet weather “nitrogen shakedown.” Some of you know applications of 1/4 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet from a favorite sludge product is quite safe in summer. It is a good rule to avoid nitrogen use or to minimize nitrogen stimulation in prolonged hot, wet weather. While I like some use of the above treatment in summer, I would rarely if ever use it at a one pound rate of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet in severe spells of hot, wet summer. Minimal or optimum nitrogen use ranks high on the list of management concerns to avoid summer failure of bentgrass-annual bluegrass turf. In addition to the above cautions on nitrogen fertilization during hot weather, you should maintain an alert preventative disease schedule. Have an experienced person check for wilt at least once per day, and frequently monitor hot and/or trafficked areas for stress symptoms. If the turf has grown appreciably, adjust the mowers to avoid taking off too much of the thin, green layer. Do not hesitate to mist water briefly when wilt starts under severe conditions, but avoid saturated wetness. 1. Generous annual totals of nitrogen on bentgrass in­ creases annual bluegrass and injury from heat or cold stress. 2. Generous nitrogen stimulation of a single annual bluegrass tiller (shoot) in late winter or early spring can grow dozens of new tillers that have seedheads in May. 3. Usually avoid using a significant amount of slow release nitrogen before the first siege of warm, wet weather. These materials can linger and add to the effect of slow release nitrogen from last year or nitro­ gen from earlier season applications. These sources plus natural nitrogen in the soil can be a dangerous total of nitrogen during persistent hot weather in late spring or early summer (as we experienced in 1994). Unless there is special need for improving turf cover, do not fertilize bentgrass-annual bluegrass turf until late April (Central New Jersey). An N-P-K fertilizer is often appropriate. Usually 1/2-3/4 pound of nitrogen per Answers to Dr. Bob's quiz 1-K The Fab Four a.k.a. The Beatles is matched to K, the white grub complex. 2- G Red Hot Chili Peppers, related to Mr. Potato of another generation, is matched to G, Solanum. This is the Latin name for deadly nightshade, a member of the same family as peppers. 3- F Bruce Springstein, a.k.a. The Boss is matched to F: The Green’s Committee. 4- Q KISS: as in Keep It Simple And Safe. 5- 0 Tony Bennett may have left his heart in San Francisco, but that’s where the GCSAA convention will be held. 6-1, J Rolling Stones: Go to the rule book and see #23: loose impediments are natural objects like leaves, stones, etc. 7-A Alice Cooper and Arnold Palmer! Yes, that’s correct. Both are great golfers over the age of 40. Alice sponsors his own tournament and has even been known to shoot a hole-in- one. 8- L En Vogue is what’s in fashion and Pickering, the letter L, is the fashionable brand of sweaters sold by the GCSANJ. 9- R Nirvana is the Buddhist equivalent of heaven or for Greenerside readers, a place where there is no fungus. 10-C Jackson Five: It’s got to be the fifth hole at Metedeconk National located in Jackson, NJ. 11-D Nine Inch Nails? This was a throw away question: Aera­ tion. 12-P Metallica has got to be not wood, clubs that is. 13-M Ridgewood/Ho-Ho-Kus GC is the oldest club in the state and some say the “Greatest.” 14-N Junior tournament. 15-H The Spring of 1994 had all four seasons in the course of a 16-E A Cadillac by any other name would still be made in 17-1, J Usually from geese, but sometimes from dogs: see rule few days. Motown! #23 again. 18B The nineteenth hole is the traditional spot for rapping and a little refreshment. Back Nine FAMOUS LACES Ed Walsh’s shoes are in the news! Published in living color on page 27 of the Met Golfer December 1994 issue is a great shot of Ed Walsh’s shoes. Yes, these are the shoes made famous in his previous article in The Greenerside. In the photo a beaming Ed leads with his duck shoes with the famous laces showing. BLACK HOLE The Hubble Telescope has identified a black hole bigger than three billion suns. The hole is located in the M87 Galaxy in the Virgo cluster near our Milky Way. Keep away from it! Despite the best technological efforts, the sophisticated Hubble scope was unable to confirm or deny whether this black hole was the ultimate resting place for lost keys, socks, and sliced golf balls. OLDER THAN DIRT? This header does not pertain to any member of the GCSANJ, but rather to the oldest living organism. Ant experts studying the famous leaf cutting ants of Central America have concluded based on DNA testing that the fungus used by these ants is the same clone which has been dated to be 23 million years old. This is a real opportunity for candle manufacturers to establish a new Guinness record, but who would want to celebrate a fungus’s birth­ day? MORE MEGAGREEN The Greenerside hot line on MegaGreen Statistics (1- 800-WE R JOKING) received calls from several readers. Doug Spencer from DueProcess informed us that the course Hardgoods - 201-473-3393 Nursery - 201-473-2749 Fax-201-473-4402 To Keep Your Course on Course TERRE Co has the has a green 28,000 square feet qualifying it as a true NJ MegaGreen. Outside New Jersey, John Gasper reported that the 18th hole at the Jefferson Golf Club in New Albany, Ohio, is 44,000 square feet. It takes two men two hours to I hand mow this monster which is horseshoe shaped around a pond. At Ridgewood, the sixth is only 1,100 square feet, which may make it the MicroGreen record holder for the state??? MEGA GREEN BUCKS The USGA has added one and a half million dollars for environmental research to the three million, two hundred thousand dollars already spent between 1991-1993. The USGA stated that the entire golf industry has the obligation to minimize environmental impact of golf course mainte­ nance. The Green Section Research Director, Dr. Michael Kenna, reported that the research is undergoing peer review and is expected to be published in book form in 1995. The new funding will support eight projects at $50,000 per year for three years on the environmental fate of pesticides, and $300,000 total for research on wildlife on golf courses. Continued on page 21 Greens renovation in your future? Make it easier on yourself and eliminate the guesswork! Call for this brochure that takes you through three different reno­ vation methods step by step. Call today and ask for the Greens Renovation Brochure. It's yours for the asking ... FREE! There’s a FREE brochure Seeds Plants and the Turf & Ornamental products that perform Lofts Seed Inc. Bound Brook, NJ (610) 266-6612 (800) 708-8873 Back Nine continued from page 20 NACA = ACPA The National Agricultural Chemicals Association has changed its name to the American Crop Protection Associa­ tion, reflecting and reinforcing the association’s role in advancing synthetic chemistry for agriculture as well as the promise of biological and bio-engineered products for the future. TABLE SALT TO BE MADE EXEMPT FROM PESTICIDE REGULATIONS The EPA has recently proposed to exempt from pesticide registration certain substances including the following: castor oil, cedar oil, cinna- mon, citric acid, citronella, cloves and clove oil, com gluten meal, com oil, cottonseed oil, dried blood, eugenol, garlic, geraniol, geranium oil, lauryl sulfate, lemongrass oil, linseed oil, malic acid, mint oil, peppermint oil, 2-phenethyl propionate, potassium sorbate, putrescent whole egg solids, rosemary and rosemary oil, sesame oil, sodium chloride (table salt), sodium lauryl sulfate, soybean oil, thyme and thyme oil, white pepper, and zinc metal strips. The agency is accepting suggestions for additional substances for exemption even if they are not currently contained in pesticide product. Food for thought? CURBSIDE RECYCLING PROGRESS REPORT Curbside recycling is the most visible element of the nation’s recycling efforts. It includes one-third of all single family residences in America, some 27 million of them. The curious thing is that this massive effort covers only 2.5 percent of what is recycled. In 1992 the US generated 203 million tons of municipal solid waste. 21% of this was recycled or composted. This equals a little more than 42 million tons.l 1120 Goffle Rd, Hawthorne, NJ. 07506 201-423-0222 Franklin Rd, Hamilton Business Park, Dover NJ. 201-366-2355 307 Washington Street, Conshohocken, PA 19428 610-941-6662 Aquarius is your #1 source for service & supplies. Thompson Commander Rotor * Cast iron body, stainless steel & brass gear drives. Only repairable gear drives on the market. * No plastic gear drive on market today can match the Thompson Commanders durability or 7 year 100% over the counter warranty. Ideal for driving ranges where durability is important. * Continuous use in the city of Los Angeles for 30 years. * Best CU- Coefficient of Uniformity in the industry. * Many local golf courses are currently using these heads. References are available upon reauest. * SOLATROL CONTROL SYSTEM expands to any size irrigation installation and any num­ ber of remote sites. Using a network of fully independent stand alone satellite controllers. * Portable hand held "master command center." * Requires no electricity to operate and is immune to any electrical spikes, surges and lightning. * Most affordable, versatile controllers in the industry. Finally, A Rotary That Can Rough It. The Groundsmaster® 455-D is the first rotary mower built for golf course roughs. This 10 ft. mower combines rotary productivity with the consistency and quality of cut you demand. To make it in the rough you have to be maneuverable. So Toro put the deck out front for visibility and control. The floating wings follow turf undulations and breakaway so you can trim around obstacles. The 455-D has a zero uncut circle in 2WD mode and only a 10" uncut circle in 4WD. Power through 5" tall rough with the low maintenance belt drive that delivers more cutting horsepower to the blades. And since you can cut roughs in half the time, you can cut more often for more turf consistency. Call us to bring out a 455-D, or for even greater productivity, the 16 ft. 580-D. Then you can rough it up for yourself. Storr Tractor Company Helping you put quality into play™ 3191 Highway 22, Somerville, N.J. 08876 908-722-9830 Celebrating Our 50th Year of Service to the Turf Industry, 1945-1995 TORO and Groundsmaster are registered trademarks of The Toro Company. © 1993 The Toro Company. No. 94-249-T. GCSAA adds to managerial staff The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) has announced the hiring of two new managers and the appointment of a current team member to a new managerial post. Kim Heck has been hired as GCSAA’s first career development manager. Her job will be to create and oversee association programs designed to effectively secure employ­ ment and pursue career goals for members. Career develop­ ment is one of GCSAA’s three newly created service departments. Prior to joining GCSAA, Heck was director of corpo­ rate marketing at Tucher, Willis & Ratliff Consulting Engineers, Planners & Architects in Kansas City, Missouri. Previously, she worked at Professional Service Industries/ Hall-Kimbrell Environmental Services. Heck has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Kansas. Burke Beeler has been hired as development manager. He will oversee the association’s charitable foundation activities and GCSAA’s scholarship programs, and secure funding for GCSAA’s various research initiatives. Beeler was a financial planner at Reinhardt Financial Services, Inc., in Lawrence, Kansas. Prior to that, he spent more than five years with the Kansas University Endow­ ment Association as a development officer and as the director of constituent development. Beeler has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in education, both from the University of Kansas. In addition, a current GCSAA staff member has been appointed to a new managerial position. Jennifer McCaughey, formerly membership manager, has been named systems manager for GCSAA’s Central Services department. She will work on the association’s management information systems, focusing on database management and training GCSAA team members. A Message from Sleepy Hollow Turf Management We want to thank all of our customers for their use of our Floratine products and for making 1994 a good year for Sleepy Hollow Turf Management. Tor those of you who have not tried Floratine bio-stimulants, soil amendments and liquid fertilizers, you owe it to your course to give us a try, this year! Sleepy Hollow Turf Management offers spray calibration and recommends tip changes, as a courtesy, to those using our products. We also provide complete soil testing and analysis services, using your choice of labs, Harris or A & L Consider us in your budget this year, you won't be sorry you did. We are totally committed to your success and look forward to the "1995" Season and serving you! your success is our success! Thank you, The Sleepy Hollow Turf Team Mel, Marge, Mark & Sean Fifer P.S For best results, start your program as early in the Spring as possible, March is not too soon for some areas. (Stimulate roots when the grass is growing with the least amount of stress "Spring".) Preventing winter storm damage to trees Winter storms can damage or kill a mature, valued tree in very little time. Hundreds of years of growth can be wiped out by a strong gust of wind, heavy ice, or wet snow. In some cases damage is Submitted by the Davey Tree Expert Company inevitable, but usually it is preventable if sound arboricultural practices are followed, say scientists at The Davey Tree Expert Company. “Winds, heavy ice, and snow are serious problems for structurally weak trees,” says Trevor F. Vidic, technical advisor with The Davey Institute, the research and develop­ ment division of The Davey Tree Expert Company. “Such trees have branches that are weakly attached at a narrow, V- shaped fork. Long or fruit-laden branches are often weak as well. Storms can cause these branches to fall, seriously damaging the tree or surrounding property.” Earthworks Natural organic Products A “SOIL FIRST” PROCRAM • REDUCE WILT • WON'T BURN • WATER HOLDING CAPACITY • BETTER NUTRIENT MOBILITY • SAFETY OF APPLICATION • SOIL CONDITIONING NATURAL ORGANIC FERTILIZERS: 5-4-5 • Helps reduce wilt and builds soil. 14-2-5 • Builds water holding capacity. NATURAL ORGANIC SOIL CONDITIONERS: KICK • Stimulates roots and opens tight soils. n-hance • 12% needed calcium to help build cell walls. BIO-STIMULANTS: potent-sea • Reduces stress with over 60 trace nutrients. POTENT-SEA PLUS • Sea kelp and fish meal together. For a free catalog and a list of distributors please call: Earthworks PO Box 278K, Martins Creek, PA 18063 800 732 TURF 0 CABLING AND BRACING Cabling and bracing can prevent breakage during wintd storms. Cables are typically used when two branches are joined at a V-shaped crotch, Vidic says. “The cable takes the tension off the branches,” he says. “It also ensures that the branches will move together in the wind, preventing the tree from twisting apart. If the crotch is cracked, a bolt and cable are installed to relieve tension and hold the crotch together.” PRUNING Proper pruning also helps reduce winter storm damage. A dense tree acts as a sail, catching the wind’s force and increasing the probability of breakage. Reducing the crown’s density allows the wind to blow through it, de­ creasing the tree’s resistance to high winds. Dead or weak branches can become unsafe during high winds. Removing dead or weak branches prevents them from falling oh property or people during a storm. CAVITY FILLING Trees with cavities are also structurally weakened. Filling the cavity provides a surface for new tissue to grow over. Cavity closure helps strengthen the trunk so it can support the crown and withstand high winds. Continued on page 25 Preventing winter damage to trees Continued from page 24 TREE MAINTENANCE Maintaining a healthy, vigorous tree is another method of decreasing winter storm damage, Vidic says. “A vigorous tree produces more woody tissue annually than a stressed, unhealthy tree,” he says. “Branches are attached to trunks by an overlaying system of woody tissue layers, so a healthy tree should have stronger branch attachments than an unhealthy tree of the same species.” A tree can only grow as well as its environment will allow. Trees, like all plants, have specific growing require­ ments, such as sun and wind exposure, as well as soil moisture, texture, and pH that must be fulfilled for a large, beautiful specimen to develop. For future plantings, golf course superintendents should consider the effects of winter weather, Vidic says. “An often-overlooked aspect of storm damage preven­ tion should begin before a tree is even planted,” he says. “Certain tree species characteristically have weak wood and should not be considered for most landscape situations because of their susceptibility to breakage in storms.” Careful selection of an appropriate planting site is also important. The selected tree should be well suited to plant­ ing side conditions. Periodic watering, fertilization, mulch­ ing, and pest management help develop a healthy, strong tree that is better able to withstand winter hazards. Proper fertilization is especially important because landscape soils are usually low in nutrients. Supplemental fertilization helps provide the right amount of nutrients to landscape trees. Following these simple preventive steps help improve a tree’s chance of surviving a destructive winter storm. In most cases, the cost of protection is far less than the value of a mature tree. The Davey Tree Expert Company provides tree care and grounds maintenance services and arboricultural and horticultural consulting to utilities, residential, commercial, and municipal customers in more than 40 states and five Canadian provinces. Davey is employee-owned with more than 5,000 employees coast to coast. am P.O. BOX 680 ASBURY PARK, NEW JERSEY 07712 IN NJ (908) 774-4882 FAX (908)775-3288 OUTSIDE NJ (800) 242-7374 TEE TO GREEN ACCESSORIES, MAINTENCE & SAFETY ITEMS! YOUR NEW JERSEY MANUFACTURER WITH ONE STOP SHOPPING. FOR CATALOG AND PRICING INFORMATION CALL 800-242-7374 Environmental resource library gets major boost from Lebanon Turf Products The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) will utilize a major financial contribution from Lebanon Turf Products to begin collecting and cataloging information on golf course and the addition of current, comprehensive reference materials would greatly strengthen and enhance that effort.” GCSAA will utilize funds contributed by Lebanon to begin acquiring the literature necessary to build a compre­ hensive library. This material will include: environmental issues. This collection will be called the Environmental Resources Library and will include appro­ priate scientific and technical journals and references. A significant amount of research has been and contin­ ues to be conducted into the environmental impact of golf courses. Dissemination of the results of those investigations is vital to the golf industry. The library, to be housed at GCSAA headquarters in Lawrence, Kansas, will help facilitate effective delivery of that information. Lebanon National Sales and Marketing Manager Paul Grosh said, “There currently is very little effort to monitor, collect, and catalog this large volume of information into a single identified source. Because of the absence of a conve­ nient collection, superintendents and the golf industry have not had ready access to information vital to the management of their facilities. To that end, Lebanon is proud to assist GCSAA in the development of this new Environmental Resources Library.” Scientific journals and studies • • Technical publications • Trade and advocacy group magazines • Reference materials • Textbooks To monitor changes in environmental legislation and regulations, GCSAA will use part of the funding to sub­ scribe to a regulatory news service. Selection will be based on the applicability of the service to the golf industry’s needs and the availability of the information on CD-ROM format. GCSAA’s Technical Information Services department will oversee the development and maintenance of the Environmental Resources Library. • Golf Courses • Estates • Athletic Fields • Commercial • Floating Aerators • Custom Built Pumping Systems AQUA-FLO, INC. 320 Basin Road • Hammonton, NJ 08037 (609) 561-1777 1-800-524-0895 (outside NJ) 4155A Westfax Drive • Chantilly, VA 22021 (703) 968-7081 GCSAA President Joseph G. Baidy, CGCS, said, “Through Lebanon’s generosity, GCSAA is in a unique position to establish and maintain the Environmental Resources Library to serve as a central technical informa­ tion source to the golf industry. The association has been a leader in the dissemination of environmental information, GCSAA education program Continued from page 16 To become certified, a candidate must have five years’ experience as a golf course superintendent, be employed in that capacity, and meet specific educational requirements of college credit or continuing education units. The candidate must then pass a rigorous six-hour examination covering knowledge of GCSAA and its certification program; the rules of golf; turfgrass management; pest management; safety and compliance; and financial and organizational management. As part of the certification process, an on-site inspection of the candidate’s course operation is conducted by two certified golf course superintendents. Certification must also be renewed every five years. PATRON DIRECTORY AGR-EVO Manufacturer of Fine Turf Chemicals Shaun M. Barry (908) 846-8173 E-Z-GO/TEXTRON, INC. New & Used Golf Cars & Turf Equip. John Myers, Paul Proter (609) 586-4000 LOFTS SEED INC. Grass Seed Company John Morrissey - Dr. Richard Hurley - Mary Beth Ruh; (800) 526-3890 AGRO-TECH 2000, INC. Axis/Break-Thru/Agroroots Peter Van Drumpt - Chris Des Garennes Rich Brandel, (609) 275-3995 FERTL-SOIL TURF SUPPLY, INC. Topdressings, golf course supplies Marty Futyma - Cathy Futyma (908) 322-6132 ALPINE, THE CARE OF TREES Complete tree care Michael Cook; (201) 445-4949 AQUA-FLO, INC. Irrigation Equip. Distrib. Phil DeMarco - Jerry Purcell (609) 561-1777 AQUATROLS CORP. OF AMERICA Manufacturer of Water Management Products. Andy Moore - Phil O'Brien (800) 257-7797 ATLANTIC MILLS INC. Tee Accessories, Towels, Detergent Peter Reitmeyer- Jack Brady - Laura Gammel (908) 774-4882 JAMES BARRETT ASSOCIATES, INC. Irrigation Consulting & Design Jim Barrett; (201) 744-8237 SKY BERGEN Sales to the Professional Turf Industry j. Bergen, Jr.; (201) 635-6469 BLUE RIDGE PEAT FARMS Topdressing, Sand Gene Evans; (717) 443-9596 BRUEDAN CORP. Yamaha Golf Cars Peter Siegel - Michael Gesmundo (800) 535-1500 ALAN G. CRUSE INC. Golf Course Landscape & Materials Alan Cruse - Jim Cruse; (201) 227-7183 DE BUCK'S SOD FARM Growers & suppliers of golf quality turfgrass sod Leonard M. DeBuck - Valorie DeBuck; (914) 258-4131 DISPRO DISPLAY PRODUCTS CORP. Sign and Display Manufacturing Jerry Baine; (908) 988-5400 DOUBLE EAGLE EQUIPMENT CO., INC. Professional Turf Equipment Clyde Ashton - Stan Stevenson Jerry Pearlman; (908) 329-9292 EARTH WORKS Manufacturer of Natural Organic Products Joel Simmons, (800) 732-TURF EGYPT FARMS, INC. Greens Topdressing, Construction Mixes, FINCH TURF EQUIPMENT INC. & JOHN DEERE ALLIED PRODUCT TURF LINES Sam Baird - Dennis Wagner - Ray Finch, (800) 875-8873; FAX (215) 721-2833 FISHER & SON CO., INC. Turf & Horticultural Supplies Alan Phillips - Frank Fisher - Mike Fisher (609) 478-6704 FLANAGAN'S LANDSCAPE-IRRIGATION CONTRACTOR, INC. Building Greens & Tees Irrigation Robert J. Flanagan - Roger P. Flanagan, Jr. - Christine Flanagan (908) 469-7782 GOLF CARS, INC. Club Car Golf Cars and Utility Vehicles, Sales, Service, Leasing Jon F. Schneider, Genl. Mgr. - John A. Czerwinski, Sales - Linda A Szymanski, Sales Manager (215) 340-0880; FAX (215) 340-1634 GRASS ROOTS, INC. Golf Course Supplies Ken Kubik - Ginny Kubik - Jay McKenna (201) 361-5943 REES JONES, INC. Golf Course Design Rees Jones; (201) 744-4031 STEPHEN KAY, GOLF COURSE ARCHITECTS Master Planning, Renovation, New Course Design Stephen Kay - Ron Turek (914) 699-4437; FAX (914) 699-4479 KOONZ SPRINKLER SUPPLY INC. Distributors Turf Irrigation William F. Koonz, Jr. (201)379-9314 LEBANON TURF PRODUCTS Fertilizer Manufacturer-Grass Seed Alan Kulibaba - Chris Zelley (800) 233-0628; NJ (201) 329-4011 LEON'S SOD FARMS Sod Grower Samuel Leon; (908) 996-2255 LESCO, INC. Manufacturer & distributor of Green Industry products Greg Moran - Lance Seeton (800) 321-5325 bentgrass, sod Jeff Lacour - John Strickland - Dean Snyder (410) 335-3700; (800) 899-7645 LONGO INDUSTRIES Electric motor, Pump repair, Sales Bob Tai - Bob Cladar (201)539-4141 RALPH MCGILLAN EXCAVATING Lakes & Ponds Ralph McGillan; (609) 655-2281 JOSEPH M. MERCADANTE, INC. Paving, Excavating, Cart Paths, Tee and Trap Construction, Golf Course Construction Joseph Mercadante - Robert Mercadante (201) 467-8622; FAX (201) 467-8419 METRO MILORGANITE, INC. Turfgrass Supplies Rick Apgar - Scott Apgar - Joe Stahl (914) 666-3171; FAX (914) 666-9183 MONTCO/SURF-SIDE/ZAP! Surfactants & Defoamers Bob Oechsle; (215) 836-4992 Fax (215) 836-2418 NATIONAL SEED COMPANY Supplier of Lawn Seed Ken Griepentrog - Sky Bergen- Barry Van Sant; (800) 828-5856 P & P EXCAVATING INC. Excavating, Ponds & Lakes Bob Laner (201) 227-2030; (201) 227-2819 PARTAC PEAT CORPORATION Top-Dressing & Construction Mixes, Golf Hole Targets, Turf Blankets Jim Kelsey; (908) 637-4191 PAVALEC BROS. GOLF COURSE CONSTRUCTION CO., INC. Golf Course Construction Anthony Pavelec; (201) 667-1643 PENNINK ARRIMOUR INC. Golf Course Construction & Renovation Tom Ristau; (609) 466-1500 (215) 659-6411 PLANT FOOD COMPANY, INC. Manufacturer of Fluid Fertilizers Ted Platz - Anthony "Rip" Rippel (609) 448-0935; (800) 562-1291 FAX (609) 443-8038 PRO-LAWN PRODUCTS INC. Professional Turf Seed, Fertilizer & Chemicals Craig Lambert; (201) 663-3368 Ingrid Kern; (215) 750-1732 Brad Simpkins; (609) 758-7620 GEO. SCHOFIELD CO., INC. Topdress, Bunker Sands, Construction Materials Supply Kevin Schofield - Robert Carson - Thomas Casmer (908) 356-0858 THE SCOTTS COMPANY - PROTURF DIV. Turf Fertilizers, Growth Regulators, Seed & Turf Protectants; Fran Berdine; (914) 361-4105, Steve Rudich, (610) 253- 4003, Jim George, (800) 543-0006 SHEARON ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN Golf Course Design and Construction Chip Kern (609) 466-0666; (215) 828-5488 STORR TRACTOR COMPANY Distributors of Turf, Irrigation, Recycling Equipment & Environmental Products & Service Phil Scott, Paul Granger, Dr. Karen Plumley; (908) 722-9830 WILLIAM STOTHOFF CO. INC. Well Drilling & Pump Repairs David C. Stothoff - William E. Snyder (908) 782-2717 STULL EQUIPMENT COMPANY Industrial Turf Equipment John Barrow - Charlie McGill (800) 724-1024 SWEENEY SEED COMPANY Turfgrass Seed Jeffrey Shockley - Andrew Sweeney (215) 275-2710 TEE AND GREEN SOD INC. Bentgrass, fine fescue and ryegrass sod blends, washed sod David Wallace; (401) 789-8177 TERRE CO. OF N.J. Seed, Fertilizer, Nursery Stock Byron Johnson - Bryan Bolehala - PatO'Neil (201) 473-3393 TURF PRODUCTS CORP. Golf Course Supplies Ernie Rizzio; 334-6684 Buddy Rizzio; 335-5499 Ron Lake; 875-8246 (201) 263-1234 TWIN LIGHT FERTILIZER & SEED COMPANY Fertilizers, Grass Seed Gerald Fountain, Richard Baker; (800) 522-4769 WA CLEARY CHEMICAL Turf & Ornamintal Products Bob Leslie - Mike Bandy (800) 524-1662 WILFRED MCDONALD, INC. Turf Equipment Specialists Dennis DeSanctis-Blair Quin-Mike Pelrine (201) 365-6801 STEVEN WILLAND INC. Turf Equipment Distributor Mark Ericson - Bruce Pye - Bill Rapp (201)579-5656 What do the superintendents of these prestigious golf courses have in common? They use the services of... KOONZ SPRINKLER SUPPLY and SERVICE EXCELLENCE • Complete inventory * Service assistance and technical support • 30 years of service to the golf industry QUALITY PRODUCT LINES Distributors of: • Nightscaping • NDS Drainage Products • ADS Drainage Products RainBird Keeping the golf world greener.™ Tempest CONTROLLED AIRSTREAMS GAS & ELECTRIC FANS PORTABLE, PERMANENT, OSCILLATING KOONZ Sprinkler Supply, Inc. Golf Division • 201-379-9314 39 Waverly Avenue, P.O. Box 55, Springfield, NJ 07081 • 201-379-9314 Fax 201-379-6504 2479 Yellow Springs Road, P.O. Box 433, Devault, PA 19432 • 610-647-1604 For sales information in Northern New Jersey/Southern New York State please call Chris Woolbert or for Southern New Jersey/Eastern Pennsylvania sales please call Robb Werley