Our 60th Year MAY 1985 A PA TC H o f G REEN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MICHIGAN & BORDER CITIES GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION f m a e t l e h t e e r e k a n a a i l s t u c g n i h t o N 5 s e m o s n a R e l b a l i a v a s m r e t g n i s a e l l a i c e p S 2 N O T E S FROM THE UNDERGROUND by Harry Roote Congratulations to Jim Timmerman for the superb job he did as President of GCSAA in 1984. The National Associa­ tion is as strong as it has ever been in years, due mainly to Jim’s leadership. Gene Baston from Alabama is the new President for 1985. Tom Schall is the new golf course superintendent at Chemung Hills C.C. in Howell, Michigan taking the place of Ken Niblock who has taken a position with the Howell Public Schools. Tom was assistant superintendent under Fred Green at Dearborn Country Club before going to Chemung. Congratulations and good luck, Tom. Ken DeBusscher, superintendent at Wabeek Country Club, and his wife Pam are expecting their second child near the end of July. Also, Marty Miller, superintendent at Knollwood C.C. and his wife Pat should have had their third child by the time this article goes to press. Marty Fuchs, new super at Twin Beach C.C. and his wife Terri Lynn had a baby boy in December. It must be Something in the air. Whatever it is, I hope my wife and I don’t catch it. Marty Miller and his wife did - in the form of a boy, their third child, born March 20, 1985. I hear Gary Thommes at Red Run C.C. bought the new Ransome tri-plex with the vacuum system attached to the cutting units. He will be using this unit to cut fairways and remove clippings. I saw this machine at the Trade Show in Washington, D.C. and was impressed with the concept. W ell have to talk with Gary later this summer and find out how the Ransome worked in his fairway clipping removal program. Les Lennier retired last fall after 19 years as superinten­ dent at Twin Beach. Les and his wife have moved to Arkansas as of April 1. Good luck to Les in his new endeavors, he did an outstanding job while at Twin Beach. Earl Prieskorn retired from Sylvan Glen G.C. last fall after 30 years in the golf business. The last 18 years were spent at Sylvan Glen. IVe seen Earl around at a few meetings this winter and he looked happy as a Lark. I wonder how Jean, Earl’s wife, likes having him around the house all the time after not seeing him much the last 30 years. Tom Mason, superintendent at Birmingham Country Club and Jeff Gorney, superintendent at Grand Rapids Elks were elected to the Board of Directors of the Michigan Turf Foundation at the M.S.U. Turf Conference in January, along with Kurt Thuemmel of Walnut Hills in Lansing. Bruce Wolfrom will serve as President of the M .T.F. for another year. Bruce did a great job as President last year. Did you hear about the guy who dream ed he ate the w orld’s biggest marshmellow? He w oke up and his pillow was gone. CONTINUED PAGE 20 for healthier plants with less work ■ Better than plastic film because it lets water pass through to thirsty plant roots. ■ Minimizes wash away of mulch and stone. ■ Impedes weed growth. ■ Passes herbicides, fertilizers, insecticides — it’s chemically inert. ■ Easy to cut and shape with scissors or knife. CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS Available from: EARTHBASE (313) 474-6580 FARMINGTON HILLS, MICHIGAN 48018 24635 HALSTED 3 To; A PATCH of GREEN • Offers a sounding board for reader opinions. • Fosters the professional growth - and welfare - of its readers by promoting education and research and by sharing successful golf course management practices. • Provides for the active participation of members and other readers through letters to the editor, contributed articles and other means. • Records association programs and accomplishments. • Brings prestige to the association and its members. Moreover, printed matter has several advantages over other communication media. It has permanance. It can serve as a reference giving readers the chance to return late serve as a reference giving readers the chance to return later when they time. Printed matter also is generally more complete and detailed than other media, and it offers reader selection - the chance to pick and choose what they want and need to read. Long after its current readers are gone, A Patch o f Green will remain as a record of the life and times of golf course superintendents in Michigan and the border cities. They will have benefitted, and so will golf, its related industries and society as a whole. Congratulations to the Michigan and Border Cities GCSA for producing one of the finest publications of its kind. And long live A Patch of Green. Clay Loyd Director of Communications GCSAA Ra in ^ B ird Master Distributor and Authorized Service Center T u r f 7^ IR lRIG A TIQ N y EQUIPMENT S AND DESIGN iTIONS A good professional publication can provide solutions to many of the problems facing golf course superintendents if it answers their questions effectively and dramatically. If it says something readers want to think and talk about, if it is attractive and easy to read, it will be read. That is exactly what the Michigan and Border Cities Golf Course Superintendents Association is doing - with the changes you see in this issue of A Patch of Green. Even without the changes, A Patch of Green was one of the comparatively few prize-winning GCSAA-affliliated chapter publications. But as the saying goes, there is al­ ways room for improvement. And Michigan and Border Cities GCSA is to be commended for striving always to produce a better periodical. Why is a local publication so important to its readers? because it can more consistently provide information that is more pertinent to its readers’ needs and interests than regional, national or more distant publications. Many of the problems and concerns of golf course superintendents in Michigan and the border cities are unique to that region. About 85 of GCSAA’s 101 affiliated chapters publish per­ iodicals to communicate with their members. They range from one-page sheets to thick, four-color magazines - one of which sometimes boasts an expensive gatefold cover. Whether an association publication is called a newsletter, a newspaper or a magazine, it serves these basic purposes: • Informs readers of current activities of the organization. wm.F.seii & Son,Inc. SINCE 1923 RENTAL SALES - SERVICE ★ LOADERS ★ SWEEPERS ★ TRENCHERS ★ MOWERS ★ ROTARY CUTTERS ★ BACK HOE DIGGERS ★ BACK FILL BLADES ★ POST HOLE DIGGERS JOB TAILORED EQUIPMENT COMPLETE LINE OF MATERIAL HANDLING & FARM EQUIPMENT 282"5100 CALL 16555 TELEGRAPH RD. - TAYLOR 1 Mile South of Eureka Michigan 313/588-2992 4 : Michigan TOLL FREË number 800-544-9219 Florida 813/621-2075 Chicago 312/640-6660 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Another feature of the Co-op is Teletip. Teletip is a series of recorded messages - each one designated by a three digit number. All you need to do is call 858-0200, give the three digit number which coincides with your topic and get ready to take notes. The messages last from two to two and a half minutes and cover a broad range of topics. To get your list of Teletip message numbers write to: It’s always nice to know that when things go wrong you have some place you can go for information. In our line of work that place is the Michigan State University Coopera­ tive Extension Service. The Extension Service is an arm of Michigan State University’s total educational program and combines the financial resources of federal, state and county governments. Staff members of the Extension Service are spread out throughout Michigan’s 80 counties. These “agents” maintain close contact with Michigan State University’s staff of specialists who have expertise in more than 26 subject areas. If the agent can’t answer your question, a specialist can. This 71-year old organization is provided to help you with any problems you may encounter, so feel free to make use of their services whenever necessary. Cooperative Extension Service Oakland County 1200 North Telegraph Road Pontiac, Michigan 48053 There is a lot of information available to you for the asking, so next time you need help with a problem, call the Cooperative Extension Service. Michael V. Edgerton President, MBCGCSA The GAM & MBCGCSA Green Seminar The annual Green Seminar was held on March 16,1985 at the Detroit Golf Club with 138 golf course superinten­ dents and club officials in attendance. Dr. Bruce Branham, Assistant Professor, Crops and Soil Science at Michigan State University led off the program with a presentation on the research and uses of plant growth regulators on the golf course. Dr. Branham mentioned one particular growth regulator he is working with called Cutless (EL500). Cutless has shown good the growth of Poa Annua while qualities in deterring allowing bentgrass to continue to grow. Someday this growth regulator may be used as a tool for Poa Annua eradication. Using other turf conversion methods, such as overseeding and water management along with Cutless, you may be able to convert your turf into a predominant stand of bentgrass. This process would be particularly useful on fairways. Don Ratcliff, Superintendent at Glengary Country Club in Toledo, Ohio talked on the use of Embark, a growth regulator, in controlling Poa Annua seedheads on fairways in the spring. Don has been using Embark on his fairways for three years and is pleased with the results. By putting 8 ounces of Embark on per acre when the seedheads become visible in late April, he has been able to get rid of the unsightly seedheads in the spring and improve the quality of his Poa fairways during the summer. It has been proven that when seedhead production is prevented in the spring the root system becomes stronger and more effective for the summer months. Jeff Rivard, Executive Director of the GAM spoke on marking, defining and setting up the golf course. His talk covered areas such as properly marking water hazards, ground under repair, proper tee marker placements, cup CONTINUED PAGE 18 Left — Right; KEVIN DUSHANE, DON RATCLIFF, DR. DAVE ROBERTS, BOB HALL, CLEM V/OLFROM, NEIL MACPHEE, TED WOEHRLE, JEFF RIVARD, DON SCHV/ALM, TOM MASON, not pictured - DR. BRUCE BRANHAM . 5 THE JOHN WALTER AWARD The Patch of Green and the Michigan and Border Cities Golf Course Superintendents Association has instituted a new contest and award presentation called “The John Walter Award” in honor of John Walter, a great golf writer from the Detroit News who passed away in June, 1977. This award will be presented annually to a member of our Association who contributes the best article to the Patch of Green. The winner will be chosen by an impartial panel of judges. For those of you who do not know of John Walter, he followed and wrote about golf for nearly 40 years. John covered all sports at one time or another during his time as a sportswriter and besides golf, bowling and hockey were his favorite sports. But golf was first on his list. Like many of us, he was not what you would call a great golfer. But he loved the game and the people it produced. He was a close friend of Horton Smith and Walter Hagen, two of the biggest names in Michigan golf history, and was President of the Golf Writers Association of America in 1958. While at the News, John launched the very successful annual golf school in cooperation with the Michigan Section of the P.G.A. and the News’ Hole-in-One contest - the largest of its kind in the country. (How many of you participated in that contest years ago?) John Walter was born in Traverse City and his association with golf began when he started caddying at the age of eight at the Detroit Golf Club. His newspaper career started in the 1920’s as an office boy with the Free Press. Then, in the early 30’s, he went to work at the News and became one of the greatest golf writers of all time. Jack Berry, Golf writer for the Detroit News states, ”No man on the entire reportorial staff was more involved in News readers’ active participation than John Walter. Nor was any man more dedicated in getting the facts - VOICE YOUR OPINION A new article is making its debut in the Patch of Green. Titled “Voice Your Opinion”, a question pertaining to golf course management will be asked in every issue with the survey’s results published in the following Patch of Green. Answers from all members will be greatly appreciated. It will take but a few minutes of your time to write on a piece of a paper a Yes or No answer. If you desire, a short com­ ment expressing your opinion can be included in your answer. IS THE STIMPMETER A This months question is: GOOD MANAGEMENT TOOL FOR THE GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT? Send all answers by June 1 to : Ted Woehrle Box 111 Birmingham, Michigan 48012 The responses will be published in the July issue. Remem­ ber, it only takes 22(£ and five minutes of your time to answer. Please do not sign your name to your reply. To make this new addition to the Patch of Green success­ ful, your participation will be valued. 6 checking and double checking them. And he has a presidential-library-size horde of notebooks to prove it.” According to Jack, writing did not come easy for John. But no one worked harder at writing than he did. Thoroughness was his trademark in the newspaper busi­ ness. The Patch of Green feels that John Walter epitomizes the purpose of this competition and we are honored in naming this award for excellence in writing achievements in the Michigan golf course industry after him. This award, similar to the Leo Feser Award given by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, will focus more on the local level. The winner of the contest will be awarded a plaque and $100.00 at the annual Christmas, party. Terry Moore, Editor-in-Chief of the Michigan Golfer and Jack Berry have graciously accepted our invitations to be judges for the contest. With their expertise in writing and knowledge of the game of golf, it would be most fitting to have Jack and Terry determine the winner of our first contest. As you may or may not know, both are honorary members of our Association. Writing an article may seem difficult and time-consum­ ing to some of you. What this contest provides though, is a chance to help your fellow members and improve your wrting skills. You may feel that you have nothing of importance to write about. Wrong! Articles can be written about fertilization, irrigation, budgets, personnel, mow­ ing, management, equipment, cultural practices, con­ struction projects or anything you may be doing on your golf course or in your business. Take the challenge upon yourself. You may be better than what you think and the information you provide can be of value. Remember, any member of MBCGCSAis eligible to participate in this contest. Please submit all articles to : Ted Woehrle, CGCS P.O.Box 111 Birmingham, Michigan 48012 Thanks go to Jack Berry for providing the information about John Walter and his illustrious career as a sports- writer for the Detroit News. CONTINUED PAGE 16 Tire Wholesalers • ) ) Company, Inc. Phone: (313) 354-5644 19240 West Eight Mile Southfield, Ml 48075 (’/2 M ile West of S outhfield Road) TRUCK - CAR, MOTORCYCLE, FARM, TRAILER, INDUSTRIAL TIRES &TUBES P irelli C a rlisle LAWN & GARDEN EQUIPMENT TIRES MBCGCSA SCHOLARSHIP The scholarship committee takes pride in announcing Boyd Arthur as the recipient of our $500.00 grant. Boyd was selected over five other applicants for our first annual scholarship. The MBCGCSA scholarship is awarded to a student in the four year Turf Program at Michigan State University. Among the criteria the applicant must have been in the 2 year Ag-Tech Program or have the equivalent work experience, have a GPA of 2.75 or better, have a philisophical commitment to the business of golf, have a good attitude and be involved in campus activities other than turf. Boyd Arthur III exemplifies these characteristics which are needed to become and function as a Golf Course Superintendent. Boyd Arthur III, age 28, began his career in 1972 at Muskegon Country Club. In 1977 he moved to Muskegon Elks and remained until 1979. In 1981 Boyd began and still operates Earth Works Lawn Care Co. Boyd also became Superintendent of Ionia Country Club in March, 1984. The Ionia community and public schools both benefit from Boyd Arthur’s community involvement. He shares his turf knowledge with interested students and faculty. Boyd has spoken to the high school golf team about turf. He is also involved in a project aimed at starting a junior golf program in the community. CONTINUED PAGE 16 TOM MASON and BOYD ARTHUR lll# 1st Recipient of MBCGCSA Scholarship Award Irrig atio n Supplies, Design and Service . . . From - Quick Coupler Valves to Computer Controllers From — the Irrigation Products for a Completely Manual System to the Newest IBM Energy and Water Saving Automatic Systems. From — replacement gaskets, seals, diaphragms for Valves, Pumps and Controllers to total Materials for an Eighteen Hole Golf Course. From — Berkeley or Cornell pumps to a Complete Pump House. From — concept to finished specifications and drawings. Call CRA TOLL FREE Anywhere in Michigan 800/544-9219 Grand Rapids Jim Sage 616/452-3373 Ben Tailiaferro 313/588-2992 Southfield Mike Gris 313/358-2994 7 INDUSTRIAL VEHICLE SALES, INC. 361 S. SAGINAW (313) 338-1590 PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48053 FORMERLY GOLF CAR DISTRIBUTORS FULL-SERVICE DEALER CUSHMAN is our Business, Our only Business. SALES • SERVICE • LEASING 338-1590 PICK-UP AND DELIVERY AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST » A t SHEMIN NURSERIES 1985 GOLF COURSE SPRING OPENER „ $3.95 $7.40 $9.68 $15.60 „ 1 V2 " PVC COMPRESSION COUPLING $3.00 each PVC PIPE - CLASS 160 - SW $3.65 - 20’ Length 2”21/2 ” 3” 4” I V 2” 2 ” 2 V2 ” 3” 4” 1” X 50’ HIGH PRESSURE GARDEN HOSE $ 53.22 1” X 100’ HIGH PRESSURE GARDEN HOSE $ 80.39 $5.69 $8.32 $11.96 $25.04 n » 1” PLASTIC FIRE NOZZLE FOR MANUAL WATERING SHEMIN NURSERIES IS NOW A COMPLETE UNDERGROUND IRRIGATION WHOLESALER Call 291-1200 (Ask for Irrigation Department) AND SUPPLIER. $ 21.95 8 Michigan Room Report The Michigan room at the 56th International Golf Course Superintendents Conference in Washington D.C. was a great success. Ken DeBusscher and I were the hosts of this years Hospitality Suite. The room was open four nights with the fourth night moving to the President’s Suite. The room would not have been a success without the donations of time to work, money for expenses, or the gen­ erous donation of beefsticks, cheeses and liquor made by all. I would like to take this time to thank Gene Johanningsmeier of Turf grass Inc. for the numerous 3 lb. beefsticks, cheeses and money; Howard Altman of W. F. Miller for the liquor; Ideal Mower and Wilkie Turf Equipment for the $100.00; and D & C Sales for the $50.00. Other donations will be listed later. Without all the donations this room which was used by all would have cost the Association a great deal more. The expense for room was $2,105.25 and the revenue generated was $2056.29. This means that the room was $48.96 over budget, however it is anticipated additional donations from other Associations will be coming in the near future. Again I would like to Thank all who helped this year. Your efforts helped get Jerry Faubel appointed to the Board of the GCSAA and to make our suite the most hos­ pitable room ever. The following is a list of all donations: Ideal Mower, $100.00 Wilkie Turf, $100.00 W. F. Miller, 90.00 D & C Sales, 50.00 Turfgrass Inc., 60.00 Spartan Dist., 20.00 Mid Michigan GCSA, 50.00 worth of liquor, beefsticks and cheeses. Fritz McMullen, 30.00 Bruce Wolfrom, 30.00 Kevin Dushane, 20.00 Craig Roggeman, 20.00 Tom Gray, 20.00 Tom Mason, 30.00 Ed Heineman, 20.00 Ken DeBusscher, 20.00 Jon Maddern, 20.00 Jef Gorney, 20.00 George Prieskorn, 20.00 Fred Green, 20.00 Mike Edgerton, 25.00 Gary Porterfield, 20.00 GaryThommes, 6.00 John Williams, 20.00 Jim Timmerman, 20.00 Beer returned, 25.00 Grand Total, $1,127.00 Mike Bay, 6.00 Jerry Faubel, 20.00 Ted Woehrle, 20.00 Clem Wolfrom, 20.00 Dan Uzelac, 40.00 Bill Davis, 10.00 John Kirtland, 20.00 Roger Barton, 20.00 Paul Schippers, 15.00 Roger Gill, 20.00 Charlie Gaige, 20.00 Steve Vasher, 20.00 Keith Patterson, 10.00 Jim Tilley, 20.00 Gordy LaFontaine, 20.00 Marty Miller, 20.00 Money in cup, 60.00 Also donated was the birthday cake for Clem Wolfrom who’s birthday was celebrated until the wee hours of the morning on Friday, February 8th. Thanks also to Ed Heineman and Tom Gray for use of their cars to pick up supplies. Jon Maddern 9 Hospitality Room Committee at Washington, D.C. (L to R) - JON MADDERN, KEN DEBUSSCHER, CRAIG ROGGEMAN EDUCATION As this years chairman of education it is my charged duty to arrange the yearly meetings and select topics for these meetings that will have information that will be of benefit to the membership. Our kick-off meeting was held January 15, at Baypointe G.C. with Rick York as our host superintendent. We had a great turn-out of 62 members including Jerry Gill. Topics covered were the introduction of committee chairmen, the Michigan Turfgrass Conference, National Election, the Hospitality Room, golf teams for the National, and other coming events for 1985. After returning from the National our next meeting was at Salt River G.C. on March 15 with Glen Korhorn as our host. Our educational topic was using “The One-Minute Manager” for problem and complaint solving. Our speak­ er was Mr. Walter Wilkie of Wilkie Turf Equipment Division, Inc. His ideas and topic were based on the book “The One-Minute Manager” written by Kenneth Blanch­ ard and Spencer Johnson. The first part of the talk was a quick overview of what was covered last year on how to motivate, praise and reprimand employees. Reminding everyone of the three steps to manging employees: CONTINUED PAGE 14 By Tom Gray On June 16, 1985, Oakland Hills Country Club will crown the U.S. Open Champion as it did on that day in 1951. Ben Hogan won the Open that year and although he won’t be participating in the 85th U.S. Open, many of the playing conditions will be the same. With 17 tons of fertilizer applied to the rough last fall, the modern day golfer may encounter the same promblems that Hogan had. Ben Hogan trailed the leaders by 5 strokes going into the 36 hole final day. Although he shot a 32 on the front side of his first 18, the back 9 ate him up. It was the 15th hole that slowed his quest for his second straight champ­ ionship. An errant tee shot caught the rough on the right side. Hogan pulled his second shot to the left side rough, from there to the front left green-side bunker and two-putted after reaching the green for a double bogey 6. He finished the morning round with a 71, two shots behind the leader. Hogan finished the final round with a birdie 3 on the 18th hole in front of 17,500 people for a 2 stroke victory over Clayton Heafner. After his final round of 67, Hogan dubbed the Oakland Hills Golf Course “The Monster”. Hogan said the night before- “It is the hardest course I have ever played. I haven’t played all the courses in the world, but I don’t want to, especially if there are any that are tougher than this one.” The 1985 U.S. Open will probably have 30,000 people greeting the winner at the 18th hole and although the winner will only have to play 18 holes on the final day, he will have to deal with “The Monster”. Information from Lincoln Werden, NY Times GOOD LUCK TED WOEHRLE ON A SUCCESSFUL 1985 UNITED STATES OPEN 1985 U. S. OPEN A PATCH OF GREEN O fficial P ublication of the / ? /> {% / * r r * GOLF COURSO ) ] SUPT J ASSOC t AT ION J "CTICMIfiAN MICHIGAN & BORDER 'CITIES GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION Ted W oehrle, CGCS, Oakland H ills C.C. EDITOR Printed At Blakeman Printing Company 31823 Utica Road Fraser, M ichigan 48026 (313) 293-3540 President MICHAEL EDGERTON,CGCS Meadowbrook Country Club Vice President KEVIN DUSHANE,CGCS Bloomfield Hills Country Club Board of Directors CHARLES GAIGE Lakelands Golf &Country Club CRAIG ROGGEMAN St. Clair Shores Country Club JON MADDERN City of Farmington Hills DANIEL UZELAC Dominion Golf Club KEN DEBUSSCHER Wabeek Country Club ED HEINEMAN, CGCS Waters Edge Country Club Secretary/Treasurer THOMAS MASON, JR. Birmingham Country Club President Em eritus BRUCE WOLFROM, CGCS Barton Hills Country Club 10 4 Different as Apples and Oranges Throughout six years as a golf course superintendent, I have often been approached by golfers who relate their comparison of other golf courses to mine. I work at a small town nine-hole country club, located in south-central Michigan. The club has a private membership, was established in 1910 and I work with a restrictive budget. During the spring, about the time the “Snowbirds” start returning from their winter havens in Florida and Arizona, is when I begin hearing of the differences between southern and northern golf courses. Many of these conversations concern relationships in putting green quality. Golfers will question why those greens down south just don’t putt like these in the north, or vice versa. The next barrage of course comparisons usually comes on the weekends when the Masters, Memorial, U.S. Open and similar tournament courses are televised. Little do these golf course analyzers realize that they are seeing these golf complexes at their absolute peak and most likely through tinted camera lenses. Working at a golf course that happens to be located down the road from one of these tournament institutions has many drawbacks. To be constantly compared to a high budget, spare no expense, tournament club with an outstanding tradition can be discouraging. It can be like living up to the New York Yankees, Boston Celtics, Monteal Canadiens or other outstanding, seemingly out of reach reputations. Another often-made comparison is when a golfer points out that golf carts are being used at another course and questions why we can’t open our course to cart traffic. The facts that the other course has excellent drainage capabili­ ties and possesses a complete tee to green cart path system are either not known or taken into consideration. Different golf courses have a wide assortment of physical variations. Conditions such as topography, soil types, drainage, water sources, grass types, climatology, length of golf seasons, acreage, size of greens, ponds, design- maintenance factors are just some of the variables that can affect the budget of a particular golf course. At my golf course for instance, our irrigation source is a 414 acre, seventy-one foot deep spring-fed lake. Essentially, the only costs when irrigating are the electricity to run the pumps and the labor to plug in manual quick couplers. Compare this situation to areas of the country where water is strictly controlled and the water supply for is a premium cost. Generally, the maintenance at private, resort and public courses varies greatly and well it should. To consistantly manage turf at low heights of cut at heavily played resort and municipal golf establishments could be agronomically if not economically disastrous. Likewise, to manage turf at a private country club like a municipality would receive critical disclaim in most cases. Private memberships take a certain pride in their velvet-like fairways and greased-up greens. irrigation Comparing one grounds budget against another can be misleading. Labor and union wage scales from one area of the country or even within a state vary enormously. Salaries and wages, which make up about 70% of a grounds budget, will greatly expand where the cost of living and competition for good workers is great. Like many other deciding factors in today’s world of economics, the trite phrase ‘you pay for what you get’ holds true. Design factors aside, you can have the best golf course in the world if you had the non-existant fortune to work with a ‘carte blanche’ budget. Regardless of course variabilities and limited budgets we, as professional golf course superintendents working in a career of our choice, have the responsibility to supply our golfers with the best golf course conditioning possible. As members of a mutual association we should educate our golfers who try to compare apples and oranges with a public relations approach. Taking the time to aid another golf course superintendent whose course is being com­ pared, cannot help but gain more respect for everyone. Stick up for the other guy down the road or across the country. Verbal explanations, along with newsletters or notes on a bulletin board can go a long way toward swaying a discontented golfer. Submitted by Peter J. Ashe, CGCS The MBCGCSA and GAM Seminar In 1980 the Michigan and Border Cities Golf Course Superintendents Association and the Golf Association of Michigan began a joint effort to provide members of private clubs in Michigan the opportunity to understand and observe what is involved in operating a golf course from the golf course superintendents’ perspective. Every spring since 1980 this seminar has been held at the Detroit Golf Club. Green chairmen, club officials and their superintendents are invited every spring to attend this meeting. The goal of our organization is to provide the GAM members information which may improve their golf course and produce continuity and good will among each club. Over the years many superintendents in our Association have given presentations concerning new golf course maintenance practices and procedures. This has sparked new interest in club members who are beginning to realize the hard work and dedication a golf course superintendent gives to its club. The seminar also shows that superinten­ dents are educated professionals willing to do what it takes to provide the members the best conditions possible on the golf course. If any golf course superintendent in the Association is interested in speaking at the next seminar, please contact any Board of Director or Officer. Involvement by all members is what keeps an organization strong. 77 TORO The No. I name in golf course irrigation The right amount of water In the right place At the right time WILKIE Turf Equipment Division, Inc, 1050 OPDYKE ED. • P.O. BOX 749 • PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48056 • (313) 373-8800 12 WORKMASTER HEAVY DUTY INDUSTRIAL-QUALITY HYDROSTATIC DRIVE gives infinite speed control, instant forward/reverse, high torque to rear wheels for drawbar pull that surpasses competition. It’s a closed, self-lubricating drive system as in our Sand Fro and Groundsmaster 72. No gears to change, no clutch to slip. UP-FRONT SEATING FOR TWO, with passenger safety grip handle, means safe, comfortable seating for operator and passenger. EASY ACCESS TO ALL COMPONENTS saves maintenance time. You don’t have to empty the box to get at the battery. All frequently serviced parts are easy to get at. STANDARD BOX SIZE carries existing engine-driven top dressers, sprayers, mowers and other maintenance equipment. AUTOMOTIVE CONTROLS AND MORE LEG ROOM FOR OPERATOR helps reduce learning time, give greater security and comfort than competitive machines. LOWER CENTER OF GRAVITY - long wheel base; low box bed-height gives greater safety and stability, reduces lifting. SPRING SUSPENSION, SHOCK ABSORBERS ON ALL WHEELS, provides comfort­ able ride. Easily carries 1,000 lb. payload. OVERSIZE 23 X 8.50 X 12 REAR TIRES give the WORKMASTER a soft footprint, excellent traction, for greater hill climbing ability and sidehill stability. WILKIE Turf Equipment Division, Inc. 1050 OPDYKE RD. • P.O. BOX 749 • PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48056 • (313) 373-8800 13 EDUCATION, cont. 1. Making sure people know what is expected of them. 2. Work and encourage good behavior. 3. Reprimand for something that is done wrong immediately. Mr. Wilkie then went into how to use these three steps in dealing with your members, boards and family. He gave good examples of two problems he and his children had and how they were solved without yelling, screaming or grounding them. He stressed the use of praise and repri­ mand. After this he called upon the people attending to pair off and tell each other something they had done and did not receive praise for. Then the other person was to praise him and the person next to them what he had done. This was interesting and one group was called upon to give an example of their story. This was to show how to praise. Second to praise is reprimand. So in the same groups they were asked to their partners something that they had really screwed up and he was to reprimand them. Again another group was asked to give an example. There was a short discussion of various ways to show praise to someone and employees from people in atten­ dance. I think the topic gave all of us some new ideas to use and was well received. I would like to take this time to thank Mr. Walter Wilkie for taking time out of his schedule to give this enlightening message. From the meeting 50 people went to the annual Bowling Tournament - fun was had by all. The team of Scott Soulliere, Marv Dominick and Gary Thommes were the winners of the team trophy and Scott won the high-game trophy. Again I would like to thank Mr. Walter Wilkie, Glenn Korhorn and Salt River Golf Club for a very enjoyable Jon Maddern DALE BAUER, DON FIELDS and DAVE PICOT at the Salt River Bowling Tournament. OTTERBINE DAY OR NIGHT...SUM M ER OR WINTER OTTERBINE * Aerators can help you keep unsightly algal growth and objectional odors under control naturally. The fact that OTTERBINES also create beauty — is just one of the many benefits of using our Spray Sculpture™ Floating Fountains. WE CREATE BEAUTY WHILE SOLVING PROBLEMS fliiPTintamain MICHIGAN CALL 800/544-9219 31691 Dequindre Madison Hts., Ml 48071 14 22159 Telegraph 3400 Jefferson S.E. Southfield, Ml 48034 Grand Rapids, Ml 49508 OPEN LETTER FROM DAN UZELAC Next to my family, being nominated, elected and then re-elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the best Superintendent Association I belong to, has been the most satisfying part of my life. As an owner, I have been accepted as an equal and as a member of five different Superintendent Associations I have always tried to contri­ bute as much as I can to all of these Associations. In 1967, I appeared on the program of the Canadian Superinten­ dents Association and in 1977 I participated on the program of the Wisconsin Golf Turf Symposium. I do not have a formal university education in turf. My qualifications as a turf manager came from 29 years of working on my golf course and later through joining Superintendents Association’s, attending meetings, confer­ ences, symposiums, etc. Most of all though, it came through the unselfish exchange of ideas between everyone in the industry: superintendents, educators, suppliers, equipment people, etc. and above all, the Golf Course Superintendent, the most knowledgeable turf manager of those involved in the turf grass industry. My family and I moved into our living quarters in the Clubhouse of Dominion Golf Club in 1956. My wife and I are still there to this day. As chairman of the By-Laws Committee, I would like to report that we have revised our By-Laws and Constitution GCSAA ELECTIONS Gerald L. Faubel, CGCS 15 which were adopted in 1970 to August ,1982. The main change was the advance of dues to the first of October. This makes possible the printing of our Membership Roster in our February Patch of Green. As your Historian, with the assistance of Clem Wolfrom, we taped a very interesting interview with Clem’s father the late Clarence Wolfrom and Bob Williamson, the former owner of Roseland Golf Club in Windsor, Ontario. The tape deals with the art of greenskeeping 50 years ago. Twenty-seven questions were asked each man during this interview. I am sure you will find their responses very enlightening; among them such practices as top-dressing whole fairways by hand. Mr. Wolfrom was hired in August, 1923 at 50(J] an hour to prepare and apply topdressing, by hand, to all 18 fairways of Meadowbrook Country Club. A copy of this tape is available from your Secretary-Treasurer Tom Mason, or myself. After four years of board meetings and being involved in the operation of Your Association, I can honestly say that they have been the most rewarding years of my life. God bless the Golf Course Superintendent, the greatest professional I know. Dan Uzelac, Dominion Golf Club Eugene D. Baston, CGCS, Birmingham, Alabama, was elected president of the 6,500 member Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) during the Associations Annual Membership Meeting, February 12, 1985. He succeeds James W. Timmerman, CGCS, Bloomfield, Michigan. Riley Stottern, CGCS, superintendent for the Jeremy Ranch Golf Club, Park City, Utah, was elected vice president. Elected to the Executive Committee as Directors were Dennis D. Lyon, CGCS, property manager for the city of Aurora, Colorado, Parks, Recreation and Public Proper­ ties Department and John A. Segui, CGCS, superinten­ dent of Waynesborough Country Club, Paoli, Pa. Reelected for a second term as a director was Donald E. Hearn, CGCS. Hearn will also serve as the Association’s secretary / treasurer. Gerald L. Faubel, CGCS, superintendent of golf course and grounds for Saginaw Country Club, Michigan, was appointed a director to fill the unexpired term of Riley Stottern. Continuing to serve as directors are John E. Laake, CGCS, and James M. Taylor, CGCS. The elections and Annual Membership Meeting were held Tuesday, February 12, 1985 in conjunction with the 56th Annual International Golf Course Conference and Show in Washington, D .C., sponsored by GCSAA. Some 9,000 persons from around the World attended. GCSAA’s president and vice president serve one year terms; directors serve two year terms and the president emeritus remains on the Executive Committee for a year. SPECIFY PERMALOC ALUMINUM EDGING INSTEAD OF STEEL WHY??? • ALUMINUM NEVER RUSTS • ALUMINUM IS EASIER TO CUT, ANGLE AND CURVE. LABOR SAVING • PERMALOC IS SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED TO RESIST FROST HEAVE • COST IS OFTEN LESS THAN STEEL PERMALOC’S NEW 1/8" AND 3/16" ALUMINUM EDGING, AN IDEAL BORDER FOR PLANTINGS AND SAND-SET PAVERS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS EARTH BASE (313) 474-6580 24635 HALSTED FARMINGTON HILLS, MICHIGAN 48018 SPECIFY PERMALOC, OR RUST JOHN WALTER AWARD, cont. GUIDELINES FOR THE JOHN WALTER AWARD 1. PURPOSE: To recognize the most outstanding article contributed by a member of the Michigan and Border Cities Golf Course Superintendents Association which best serves his fellow members. 2. GENERAL GUIDELINES: A. Eligibility - All members of MBCGCSA who author an article published in the Patch of Green magazine from January through November of the current year. (This year’s winner will be chosen from the May, July, September and November issues.) B. Judges - Shall consist of a panel appointed by the Patch of Green. C. Judging Criteria - The article determined to have best served the interests of the MBCGCSA members shall be declared the award recipient. D. Award/Presentation - A plaque and $100.00 shall be presented annually to the recipient at the Annual Christmas party held in December. (Or whenever possible after the winner is chosen.) E. Articles - The following types of articles should be excluded from consideration: Letters to the Editor; The President’s Message; Articles concerning current MBCGCSA activities (golf tournament reports, etc.); Reports of MBCGCSA Committee actions; Reports of Chapter activities; any article extensively rewritten by the Patch of Green staff or composed by POG staff from nominal author’s spoken/written source material (e.g. tape recordings). SCHOLARSHIP, cont. Boyd lives with his wife and child in Ionia. Every day he commutes to East Lansing to attend classes and to contribute to the MSU Turf Club. The scholarship committee is comprised of Ted Woehrle, Carey Mitchelson, Jay Delcamp, Dr. Bruce Branham and Tom Mason. Our association will be inviting Boyd to one of our meetings in the upcoming year. Take the time to introduce yourself and chat with our first MBCGCSA scholarship winner. "F o r Land's Sake-'Use P eat" oxfoj® r m co. 1430 E. Drahner Rd. Oxford, Michigan 48051 PROCESSED PEAT Bulk or Bag FREDLATTA 313/628-5991 76 GCSAA GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP One of the more consistant golfers in our local is Fritz McMullen from Forest Lake Country Club. He won the overall low net championship and placed second in the low gross score with rounds of 78 and 75 for a 153 total. With his 153 Fritz earned a trophy and a G.C.S.A.A. golf bag and wood covers. Bruce Wolfrom from Barton Hills Country Club in Ann Arbor, won the closest to the pin contest on the 160 yard 12th hole at Palmetto Dunes (designed by R. T. Jones, Jr.). Bruce, who gets “No Respect” for his golfing abilities in Michigan, displayed his skill by topping a five iron 5 feet from the hole. Bruce won a Yamaha driver for his shot and hopes his new found ability will carry over to this summer. Kevin Dushane from Bloomfield Hills Country Club, won a trophy for placing 7th in his respective division with rounds of 90 and 88. Congratulations are in order for our No. 1 team consisting of George Prieskorn, Carey Mitch- elson, Fritz McMullen and Clem Wolfrom for their presentation. The National Team championship went to the “Beach Bums' out of South Carolina. We are looking forward to next years National Tourna­ ment to be held in Palm Desert, California. To qualify for the National Team, the best 3 out of 4 score will be used at these courses: (Tentatively) Travis Point Golf Club, White Lake Oaks, The Links at Pinewood and Riverview Highlands. GOLF TEAM AT HILTON - (Left to Right) CAREY MITCHELSON, FRITZ McMu l l e n , g e o r g e p r i e s k o r n , c l e m v/ o l f r o m TREE TRANSPLANTING LARGE TREES UP TO 11” DIAMETER ARMSTRONG LAWN AND TREE. INC “YOUR EVERGREENS SHOULD BE MOVED NOW .” 44275 Whithorn Sterling Heights, Michigan 48078 731-5550 264-8803 Home: 731-2148 17 GREEN SEMINAR, cont. positions, and golf rules affected by course conditions. Don Schwalm, member and Green Chairman at Meadowbrook Country Club, presented a talk on the role he plays as green chairman at his club. He feels that communication between the membership and the green committee and the golf course superinten­ dent and the green committee is essential for a smooth running operation. The committee keeps the membership informed of impor­ tant projects and maintenance practices taking place on the golf course so members are not left in the dark as to what is going on. This is a good point because most members will understand that maintenance practices such as aerification, topdressing, fertilization and spraying are needed in order to maintain a quality golf course. Bob Hall, vice chairman of the GAM Green committee, spoke briefly on donations by GAM clubs to the Michigan Turf Foundation. Over $30,000 has been donated over "the past three years to the MTF through the dollar-a-member program. Thanks go to Bob Hall and Neil MacPhee for their fine efforts in obtaining research dollars for the MTF. Golf course tournament preparation was the next topic of discussion. Clem Wolfrom, superintendent at the Detroit Golf Club talked on how he treats his members’ tournaments, such as the club invitational, as a major tournament and prepares the course with that in mind. Clem feels the members deserve the best possible playing conditions and grooms the course as though the U.S. Open is being played. Tom Mason, superintendent at Birmingham Country Club talked on how he prepared his course for the U.S. Senior Amateur last September. Tom mentioned that preparation for the tournament began the year before the event and the U.S.G.A. established guidelines for course playability and conditions. Tom remarked on how the length of the rough before tournament time was longer than the members were used to and this had quite an effect on membership play. Also, the weather before the tournament, particularly rainfall, played a big part in his maintenance program for the event. Ted Woehrle, superintendent at Oakland Hills Country Club, presented his talk on preparing for the 1985 U.S. Open. The work involved in getting the course ready began two years ago and will continue until the first day of the tournament. Some problems that Ted has to contend with that other club superintendents do not get involved with for tournament preparation is the miles of television cables, litter, parking over 14,000 cars and coping with over 30,000 spectators everyday. Dr. Dave Roberts, Research Associate in Botany and Plant Pathology at M.S.U. was the final speaker of the day. Dr. Roberts presented his findings on Bacterial Wilt of turf grasses. The news he gave was not good - Bacterial Wilt was thought to be a problem only on Toronto bent- grass, but through his research has discovered Bacterial Wilt to be a problem on many other varieties of turfgrasses including Poa Annua, Bluegrass and other bentgrasses. Al­ though these cases may be isolated, Dr. Roberts feels that it will just be a matter of time before this new turf grass disease becomes a major problem. CONTINUED PAGE 20 78 ¿Serving You Better ' . »vA \ f ~ ............................. <7? A With QUALITY... MALLINCKRODT LEWIS FORE PAR CLEARY COUNTRY CLUB Upjohn Ch ico pee FOX VALLEY ChipCO DIAMOND SHAMROCK Yankee cyclone PBI Gordon AQUATROLS Pana Sea TURFGRASS PRODUCTS SOUTH LYON, MICHIGAN Phone: Area 313 437-1427 GENE JOHANNINGSMEIER New CHIPCO® M OCAPs insec­ ticide gives you the kind of grub control you need...control that’s fast and effective. CHIPCO MOCAP starts killing grubs as soon as you w ater it in. O ther products take hours or days to work. And all that time, grubs continue to feed, destroying your turf. For best results, apply CHIPCO MOCAP before grubs start to feed—usually in August or early September. But if grubs get the jump on you, you can still take control quickly and effectively with fast-acting CHIPCO MOCAP. And fast action is just part of the story. CHIPCO MOCAP gives effective control* of a broad spectrum of grubs. CHIPCO MOCAP K lliS OTHER TURF INSECTS, TOO. CHIPCO MOCAP knocks out a broad range of surface insects, including chinchbug and sod webworm. And if nematodes or mole crickets are destroying your turf, you can destroy them, too, with CHIPCO MOCAP. For the fastest, most effec­ tive control of grubs and other turf pests, include CHIPCO MOCAP in your turfgrass m an­ agement program. CHIPCO MOCAP from Rhone-Poulenc Inc., makers of CHIPCO® 26019 and CHIPCO® Ronstar? is a new addition to the CHIPCO line of fine products for turfgrass protection. For more information write BOB DUGAN SALES REPRESENTATIVE 36709 Romulus Road. Romulus. Michigan 48174 - (313) 941 1972 CHIPCO MOCAP RUBS OUT GRUBS. CHIPCO, RONSTAR and MOCAP are registered trademarks of Rhône-Poulenc. 79 HARRY ROOTE, cont. Congratulations to Jerry Faubel, superintendent at Saginaw C.C. for his one-year appointment to the Execu­ tive Board of GCSAA. Jerry wants to thank everyone in the MBCGCSA for their efforts in his attempt to gain a spot on the Board. Jim Eccleton is the new golf course superintendent at Arbor Hills C.C. in Jackson, Michigan. Jim graduated from M.S.U. in 1984 and was assistant superintendent at Tam-O-Shanter last year, working under Mike Bay. Jim Latham is the new U.S.G.A. agronomist for the North-Central region. He previously worked for the Milwaukee Sewerage Commission. Jim replaces Stan Zontek who has taken the position of Director of the Mid- Atlantic region. To all class A and B superintendents who are members of GCSAA - Your National membership card will allow you entry into this year’s U.S. Open at Oakland Hills. The Strike & Spare Bowling Lanes at Telegraph and Maple just west of the Clubhouse is the location to pick up your pass to enter the tournament. Did you know that the optimum temperature range fo r sustained root growth fo r most cool season grasses is b e­ tween 50° and 65° Farenheit? the best soil ph fo r maximum root growth is between 5.7 and 7.5? The average normal temperature fo r Detroit in May is 58°, in Grand Rapids - 57°. The average monthly rainfall fo r May in Detroit and Grand Rapids is 3.4 and 3.2 inches. In June, the monthly normal temperature goes up to 69° in Detroit and 67° in Grand Rapids. A reminder to all members of MBCGCSA - It is your re­ sponsibility to report any changes in your address, phone number, company or golf club, membership classification and marital status to the secretary. This information is needed in order to keep the Roster up to date. Call or write Tom Mason if any of the changes affect you, otherwise it will not be changed in the yearly Roster Book. For the second straight year the Michigan Golfer, a monthly magazine published from April to September, will be running an article titled “Super Spotlight”. The article will have a picture and brief introduction of a golf course superintendent from a golf course in Michigan. It’s great to see the Michigan Golfer give this exposure to the golf course superintendent, because the super does play an important role in the golf course industry. For $4.00 per year the magazine can be subscribed to by writing to : The Great Lakes Sports Publications, Inc., 1734 Sheffield Drive, Ypsilanti, Michigan 48917. Mark Twain once stated, “Everyone always talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it”. Isn’t that the truth. I wonder if Mr. Twain was a golf course superintendent at one time or another? Everyone have a good spring. May your turf be green and your grass roots long. GREEN SEMINAR, cont. Monetary funding to study this potentially dangerous problem has been lacking, to say the least. Hopefully, cer­ tain golf industry leaders in the country will take the initiative to support research concerning Bacterial Wilt. Also, it may be the time for our Association to get involved in obtaining research funding before it is too late. This annual seminar has played a big part in our continued good relationship with the GAM. It is impor- to remember the golf course superintendents participation in events such as these will keep this alliance strong. that 'Jtun&erUe&, * h t c . FORMERLY TURF SUPPLIES, INC.- Let’s Talk Fungicides! We stock the Proven Best. Tersan 1991, 2#-Proven Systemic Action. Tersan LSR, 3#-Leaf Spot & Rust Control. Tersan S.P., 3#-Snow Mold & Pythium. Daconil 2787 , 2#-Very Broad Spectrum. Daconil 2787 2 Gal. Flowable, Liquid. Benomyl Gran, 24#-Dry, Spreadable. Chipco .26019, 2#-Broad Spectrum Syst. Fore (Dithane), 50#-Leaf Spot & Rust Cntl. Acti-Dione Thiram, 10#-Brown & Dollar. Acti-Dione R.Z., 10#-Anti-Biotic Fungicide. Acti-Dione TFG, 1#-Water-Sol, Anti-Biotic. Bayleton 25W, 2#-Fusarium prevent & Cure. Dyrene Gran., 10#-Snow Mold Cntl. & Cure. KEN, DAVE, & GEOFF Would Like to Take Your Order 6900 Pardee Road Taylor, Michigan 48180 (313) 291-1200 20 Nothing cuts it on wet turf like the 213D Fairway Vac RANSOMES Exclusive high vac action lets you cut and remove clippings even under dampest conditions! Tri-Plex floating reels Individual instant hydraulic reel lift controls Hydrostatic transmission 7-ft. cutting w idth 18-cu. ft. collector capacity Vac attachment has 8 H.P.I.C. Briggs-Stratton w ith 2.5 w arranty Special leasing terms available 21 H.P. diesel water-cooled 21 For information or demonstration, call Rich Hetrick or Ed Stesney, Turf Manager, at: (313) 5 4 1 -4 6 6 0 IDEAL MOWER SALES 811 Woodward Heights Ferndale, Michigan 48220 NEWS RELEASE Ransomes motor 213D with diesel power gives you more efficient grass cutting at your finer tips. Hydraulic drive and lift to the cutting units alone, with hydrostatic transmission coupled to a Dana automotive axle to the drive wheels makes the operation of this versitile unit very simple. Any, or all three, of the rugged cutters can be put into or out of gear in seconds - by the touch of a lever. A maximum cutting width of the full floating cutter heads is 84”. All-around versitility keeps you in control at all times. Rear mounted diesel engine keeps fuel cost low and gives the operation a smoother, quieter ride. Forward speed is infinitely variable up to 9 mph with a single pedal control for instant forward and reverse. The cutter drive is completely independent of the ground speed which enables you to maintain maximum cutting efficiency at all times. The ease of steering is accomplished with a Saginaw Steering gear box. Now add the Ransome Vacuum model RFV213 -18 cubic foot capacity aluminum, self dumping container, double wire bound reinforced hoses, mold injected high impact material, quick attaching collection boots to the cutter heads and powered by a 8 H.P. Briggs and Stratton I.C. electric start engine with a special Nelson muffler to reduce noise to a minimum. This engine also carries the Briggs and Stratton 2 year - 5 year warranty. The motor 213 has been in the Ransomes reel mower family for nearly 10 years and now with the introduction of the revolutionizing fairway vacuum model RFV213 it adds a new dimension to the most economical, high production fairway mower in the market today. Ransomes marks yet another major breakthrough in grass cutting technology. The Ransomes Motor 513 and Motor 350-D 5 gang self-contained mowers bring you the benefits of fast, efficient mowing, simplicity of operation and a real saving in running costs. Ransomes offers two different engine options, a Ford 27 H.P. water cooled gas in the Motor 513, and a Kubota 38 H.P. water cooled diesel in the 350-D. The all-around visibility and exceptional manueverability, 24” turning radius and a uncut circle of turf 0. The traction and ground pressure are top in its field, due to the single high flotation tires, placement of the engine, and the weight is evenly distributed through­ out the machine. The reel options that are available are 4, 6, and 8 blade reels that will let you perform in any turf conditions. (Note: all reels and hydraulic motors are interchangable). The hydraulics of the machine offers simplicity of operation and all controls are within easy reach of the operator. Foot pedal control gives infinitely variable forward and reverse speeds. Maintenance and replacement cost are reduced to a minimum. Any com­ bination of units are raised or lowered into work postion with a touch of a lever. Variable cuts per yard can be selected to insure the required finish is obtained. Pressure relief valves are built into the system to prevent over­ loading and damage to any of the hydraulic system. Quality does not cost. It Pays. “THE FINEST MADE LAWN TRACTOR IN THE WORLD” • Four-Wheel Drive • Smooth Shift Hydrostatic Drive • Center Pivot Frame With Power Steering • Low Center of Gravity for High Stability • Low Pressure, High Flotation Tires of Equal Size • Implements Attached or Detached in One Minute • Front Mounted Accessories Available TAKE A TEST DRIVE . . . The Steiner tractors are an American manufactured product that offers you a package of features and attachments unavailable on any other unit in its class. CALL FOR A FREE DEMONSTRATION . . . If you want durability and highest quality in your lawn tractor at an affordable price, stop in and see this remarkable machine and get Your Best Deal! UNIVERSAL EQUIPMENT c T c o m p a n y 530 15 MILE ROAD, TROY, MICHIGAN On South Side of 15 M ile , Just West of Rochester Rd. 22 585-8484 SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS Open Mon. — Fri. 8-5 HAHN SPRAY-PRO 44, IT WORKS. ANDWORKS... AND W ORKS... Greens or fairways... the Spray-Pro 44 with its big high flotation tires to protect your turf, converts in minutes to a Sprayer, Spreader, Aerifier or Utility Bed. Designed for easy on, easy off switching and year ’round service. This “crew” should be working for you the aerifier. . . Hydraulically controlled from operator’s position. Cultivates a full 42 inch width. Cleanly penetrates to 3 inches, depend ing on soil conditions. Optional Slicing Blades to open the soil with a minimum of turf disturbance. the sprayer. . . 160 gal. poly tank, 3-section boom for 18-1/2 ft. cover­ age. Spray with 1,2, or all 3 booms. Fingertip control of all spray system functions. the spreader. . . Precise rate settings for a uniform pattern. Top dress sand in 12 to 20 ft. swath, apply seed, fertilizer and lime 20 to 40 ft. Up to 500 lbs. per minute. the utility truck bed. . . Reinforced steel, 1500 lbs. capacity. Converts to dump bed with addition of Hydraulic Package. FAST, WIDE COVERAGE 4-WHEEL STABILITY Low center of gravity. For more stability and safety. BIG HIGH FLOTATION TIRES Reduce compaction. Drive on golf greens safely. About half the PSI of other utility trucks and sprayers. Sold and Serviced by LAWN EQUIPMENT CORPORATION NOVI, MICH. 48050 46845 W. 12 MILE ROAD P.0. BOX 500 (313) 348-8110 23 Introducing... JACOBSEN G-4X4 available from: W.F. Miller Company 1593 S. WOODWARD AVE. BIRMINGHAM, MICHIGAN 48011 Four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering and a low center of gravity are key features of the Jacobsen G-4X4, a 24 hp diesel-powered machine designed to serve as a mobile power source for rotary and flail mowers, rotary broom and snowthrower, seed and fertilizer spreader and blower. It also has a synchronized eight forward and four reverse speed transmission, four-wheel hydraulic brakes and an all weather cab plus front and rear lights. TELEPHONE: (313) 647-7700 "A Patch of Green” 31823 U T I C A R O A D F R A S E R , M IC H IG A N 48026 DEPT« S O IL & CROP SCIENCES TEXAS A & M UNIVERSITY COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS ATTI'J; DR. JAM S BEARD 7 7 8 4 0