9 ^ luA PLANNING AHEAD COLLECTION A t T h e s i e r s W e’ve made culti deep subject SAFtTT ImnltK Good cultivation takes the right traction unit and the right implement. That’s why most bunker rakes don’t cultivate as well as the John Deere 1200.They simply don’t measure up. The 1200’s mid-mount cultivator features 10 deep-penetrating blades that can be locked into five different positions. A high-torque 10-hp engine powers the 1200 while a gear-driven transaxle puts that power to work with an impressive gear reduction of 164:1. Combined, they deliver tremendous pulling power. The result: A combination of power and depth control that results in a cleaner, more consistant playing surface than you get with other machines. You get better bunkers, happier players. For the best in bunker rakes call Thesier’s at 1-800-870-9791. NOTH ING RUNS LIKE A DEERE* THESIER EQUIPMENT COMPANY 1-800-870-9791 28342 Pontiac Trail South Lyon, Ml 48178 (313) 437-2091 Advertising & editorial offices are at: 30600 Telegraph Road Suite 1386 Bingham Farms, Ml 48025 (313) 642-9580 • FAX 642-5290 Publishers Executive Editor Editor Creative Director Feature w riter Copy Editor Designer Advertising Production Kolka & Robb, Inc. Paul Kolbe Vicki Robb Kathleen Kolka Katie Elsila Fred Wessells Laura Rogers Michelle Magraw Michael Wagester O fficers Michigan & Border Cities Golf Course Superintendents Association P re sid e n t Ken DeBusscher Committee: Ethics V ice -P re sid e n t Jay DelCamp Committee: CAM Seminar By Laws, Historian S e cre ta ry /Treasurer Cary Thommes Committee: Finance, Welfare, Policy Book P a st P re sid e n t Tom Mason Committee: CCSAA Liaison Delegate, Ethics Directors Michael Bay Committee: Christmas Party, Membership Paul Dushane Committee: Hospitality, Clothing, Picnic Paul Kolbe Committee: Editorial, Publicity/Awards, Coif Fritz McMullen Committee: Education Co-chairman, Environmental Relations, MTF Liason Carey Mitchelson Committee: Fund Raising, Industrial Relations David Picot Committee: Education Co-chairman, Scholarship Contact for MBCCCSA inform ation KATE MASON Executive Secretary MBCGCSA P.0. BOX 173, Troy, Ml 48099 (313) 362-1108 fax (313)362-1736 The Official Publication of the Michigan and Border Cities Golf Course Superintendents Association Contents Calendar of Events & New Members On Par with the President The Whole Truth by Tim Doppel Learning from Failed ideas Around the Course, Kate Speaking & A Past Patch of Green Member Focus: Heather Hills Membership Meeting Update: June & July Toxicity & Exposure Member Focus: Benham Chemical Bill Roberts Resigns MBCGCSA'S 1994 Elections: Candidates MGCSA Championship, Advertisers' Directory & Classifieds Cover Photo: KEN OSBURN A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 1 • A Commitment to Quality Turf Care Products for You - The Turf Care Professional L Tee Time' Fertilizer 25-5-15 with Nutralene ™ the professional’s partner* IheÆSSS» Andersons Distributed by: TURFGRASS, INC. 28064 Pontiac Trail South Lyon, Ml 48178 (313) 437-1427 1-800-521-TURF (Ml only) ~\ Your Tee Time Distributor offers you: Homogeneous Greens Fertilizers Greens and Fairway Fertilizers with Nutralene® Quality Sulfur Coated Urea Fertilizers Combination Products Granular Insecticides Granular Fungicides Complete Granular Maintenance Programs the professional's partner Tlie €££3» Andersons | Lawn Products Division P. O. Box 119 I Maumee, Ohio 43537 Nutralene - Trademark of NOR-AM Chemical Co. Tee Time and "the professional's partner" - Trademarks of The Andersons FEATURES: • Exclusive Cross-Flow Parallel 4 wheel Drive, designed to eliminate scuffing and improve traction in fine turf applications • 51 hp Kubota liquid cooled diesel engine •Choice of 9 1/2 and 10 1/2 cut. • Individual deck controls Hydraulic weight transfer on all three decks •Heavy gage deck construction with energy absorbing wings • 0 ” uncut circle CALL FOR FREE DEMONSTRATION C U S H M A N 6150 Wing Rotary Lawn Equipment Service and 151 North Perry, (313) 858-7700 Parts express 1- 800-231-LAWN Inc. Pontiac, Michigan 48342 Cushman now has lower parts prices. Call and compare. A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 ASHFIELD, THOMAS J. Franklin Hills Country Club 51 Allison Pontiac, Ml 48342 H-(313) 332-6272 0-(313) 626-1220 CLASS S HULL, WILLIAM G. Ill Twin Beach Country Club 7560 Oakley Park w. Bloomfield, Ml 48323 H/O-1313) 360-8767 CLASS B JENSEN, JEFFREY L. Franklin Hills Country Club 14097 Nola Livonia, Ml 48154 H-(313) 464-3179 0 (313) 626-1220 CLASS S LAMB, LAURENCE Royal Oak Golf Clubs 3417 Don Soper Dr. Royal Oak, Ml 48073 H-(313) 543-8162 0-«313)546-6337 CLASS B RASKE, GEORGE E.M.S. Links Golf Course 2236 isles Rd. Sandusky, Ml 48471 0 (313) 648-2256 CLASS A SKINNER, JEFFREY L. (LAURA) Franklin Hills Country Club 31675 Inkster Rd. Franklin, Ml 48025 H-1615) 775-2085 0-1313) 626-1220 CLASS S CALENDAR OF EVENfS SEPTEM BER Labor Day 6 ......... 13...... . . WMGCSA. MTF Fund- raiser 1 4 ..... Membership Meeting 16...... ... Michigan Superintendents Championship n m t m a Fund-raiser 2 0 ..... Egypt Valley Golf Course Sycamore Hills Golf Course. Host: Craig Roggeman The Fortress in Frankenmuth. Scott Watkins - Superintendent Little Traverse Bay OCTOBER 4 ....... ... MBCGCSA Big Event 1 4 ..... ... GCSAA Sem inar 1 9 ..... Annual Meeting Franklin Hills, Crosse lie Country Club Katke-Cousins, Oakland Hills Country Club "Microbiology of Turfgrass Soils" Holiday Inn, East Lansing Maple Lane Coif Club 1 6 - 1 8 ... GCSAA Sem inar "Developing and Maintaining Effective Management/Employee Relationships" East Lansing Christm as Party Red Run Golf Club Ohio Turf Conference to be held in December JANUARY 17-19... 64th Annual Michigan Turfgrass Conference A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 3 • USH ROTHE we cover all your paving needs... • New Paths • Widenings • Resurfacing • Problem Areas • Down Sized Trucks & Equipment • Hardworking/© «Dependable c u i± BSSthers (313)476-8254 A sphalt Paving, Inc. 20788 Osmus • Farmington Hills, Ml • 48336 HAS IT! Everything you need for professional turf management. •Fertilizers «Control Products «Seed •Irrigation «Equipment «Replacement Parts •Golf Course Accessories «Safety Products •Service Brochures • Low Voltage Lighting (8 0 0 ) 321-5325 Your Growth Partner LESCO, Inc., 20005 Lake Rd., Rocky River, Ohio 44116 Professional \ H ydrogeological and Scientific Consulting G.R. KUNKLE & ASSOCIATES, INC. 2209 Euler Road, Suite 1 Brighton, Michigan 48116 (313) 227-6240 • FAX (313) 227-8935 H YD RO GEOLOGISTS/SCIENTISTS □ Hydrogeological Assessments & Investigations □ Wetland Identification, Delineation& Permitting □ Site Assessments for Real Estate Transactions □ Site Assessments for UST Removals □ Remediation of Contaminated Sites Their Approach lb Boosting Potash. Our Approach To Boosting Potash. Improved disease tolerance. Enhanced drought resistance. And a complete, balanced feeding. In a homoge­ neous mixture to ensure uniform nutrient distribution. Country Club 8-4-24 simply outdistances the competition. C o u n t r y C lu b 8 - 4 - 2 4 Distributed By: B en h am C hem ical (313)474-7474 Turfgrass, Inc. (313) 437-1427 A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 On Darw,thth e president This is my favorite time of the year. How can you beat September and October in Michigan, especially when viewing it from our professional perspective. Summer tensions melted away with cooler nights, tournament schedules have dwindled, tired turf is being resuscitated by aeration and my golf game that was packed away for three months is now getting some attention. How fortunate we are to be turf managers in Michigan. We have only two months of 12 to worry about turf loss? Kid stuff compared to our counterparts throughout many areas of the country. Oh we have our tough summers, but those are only glitches from the norm. Some of the gravy we enjoy comes from the fact that we work in the state with the finest turf school in the world. This adulation comes from a Purdue University graduate. Now I wouldn't trade my Boilermaker education for all the soybeans in Indiana, but I enjoy the accessibility and confidence I hold knowing Michigan State University is only a few miles down the road. I seem to be bleeding green and white these days because I was fortunate to have attended the America's Cup game between England and Germany. The eyes of the world inspected what turned out to be the sensation of the tournament—the playing field! The MSU team led by Dr. Trey Rogers provided flawless turf conditions and a taste of what to expect when the big show, the World Cup, comes to the Silverdome next summer. Many of us attended a bash and shared the post­ game elation with the professors, students and other 'turf dignitaries." It was a proud moment for MSU, the turf school and those of us who harbor a kinship with the turf program. Admirable execution. Congratulations and good luck during the World Cup. As many are aware, our association is recognized nationally as one of the premier local organizations in the country. In an effort to get back in line and abide by our By-Laws (Article II, Section 3), dues statements were sent out August 15, with payments due by October 1st. All members paying after this date will be assessed a reinstatement fee. We've decided to stop the practice of sending out 3 or 4 payment notices and will now only send two. This is certainly not an attempt to generate money but rather an effort to expedite the dues collection process, promote prompt professional action and forward our membership roster to you in a timely fashion. Thank you for your punctual response. As many are aware, our association is recognized nationally as one of the premier local organizations in the country. This stems from a lineage of admirable leadership and responsive membership. We are always looking for those in our profession to step forward and serve this delegation. This year election slate is comprised of the aggressive personalities we need to sustain this heritage. Please investigate the candidates and either vote for your favorites by proxy or mark your ballots in person at the annual meeting at Maple Lane. Happy Hunting. , y m Ken DeBusscher PRESIDENT DAVEY OFFERS Every Tree Care SERVICE YOU’LL Ever Need. You know that mature trees add challenge as well as beauty. You also know ma­ ture trees are impossible to replace. Davey knows how to help protect these valu­ able assets from decline, lightning, storm damage, insects and disease. Davey professionals will inventory your trees, evaluate the condition of each one, and give you a report prioritizing treatments. Over time, expert care from Davey will actually reduce your tree maintenance costs. Keep your most valuable assets standing tall with the leader in tree care since 1880. Call Davey today at 689-2200 D A V E Y TREE AND LAWN BEAUTY Sincerely, Ken DeBusscher A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 5 • OSBURN INDUSTRIES Custom Top Dressing Blends ♦ TDS 2150 Dune Sand ♦ 540 Best ♦ Local Mason Sand ♦ Precision Blend Mixing 0 Michigan Sphagnum 0 Canadian Sphagnum 0 Sandy Loom Topsoil 0 Reed Sedge Peat Trap Sand 0 Best 530 0 Local 2NS Sand 0 Local Mason Sand Other Materials 0 Cart Path Slag 0 Pea Pebble 0 Decorative Boulders 0 Parking Lot Stone Call for details (313) 292-4140 A sk for Dick, Rick or Tim 5850 Pardee Taylor, Michigan 48180 A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 STO P SNOW MOLD With a Chipco 26019/Daconil Combination. R H O N E P O U L E N C A G C O M P A N Y CONTACT BOB DUGAN CHIPCO TURF & ORNAMENTAL SPECIALIST P.O.BOX 398* ROMULUS, Ml 49174-0398 (313) 782-0323 Fax: (313) 782-6344 The Whole Truth and Som ething Like the Truth By Tim Doppel I receive a publication that comes from the Pesticide Education Office of MSU Extension called Pesticide Notes. These folks do a wonderful job summarizing lots of important bits and pieces of news relat­ ing to pesticides. In the May-June issue there appeared a note relating to some reports from the American Association of Poison Con­ trol Centers. Each year this group publishes a summary of calls received by participat­ ing poison control cen­ ters. The 1991 data were re­ leased re­ cently and I found it rath­ er interest­ ing. It made me pause to think how some of your members might react if they heard the results of this summary. In 1991, poison control centers received more than 78,000 calls relating to pesticide exposures. Wow! That's a lot. No wonder we hear so much about pesticide poisonings! Except that it was only 5.8% of all the calls they received. Pretty small numbers in reality, wouldn't you say? Keep in mind that there are 75 centers who report for this summary and they serve a population of over 200,700,000 people. cough and Pesticides ranked seventh as the substance most frequently involved in poisonings, behind cleansers, analgesics, cosmetics, plants, cold medications, and bites. Again while that may seem high, let's keep it all in perspective. Weeds caused more problems than weed control. And of all the pesticide calls only about a third required any kind of medical attention. Only 1 or 2 percent of those pesticide calls requiring medical attention were classified as moderate or severe. There were 22 deaths reported from pesticide poisonings in 1991. On the basis of that, we should probably ban all pesticide use, right? Well, when you find out that the A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 7 • were majority from intentional ingestion (suicide), it appears that maybe pesticides are not the terrible culprit they first appear to be. In fact, only two deaths could to be positively accidental to pesticides. traced exposure My point in sharing all this information with you is to remind you how easily the truth can be twisted and used to sell a particular story. If you read the first sentence of each of the three previous paragraphs, think about the kind of headline each would make. Boy, wouldn't that grab your attention on the 11 p.m. news! Each sentence is true, but when you read the rest of the paragraph, the opening statements don't appear quite as ominous. the the read safety applicators Be sure you get the whole story when you hear something negative, but be sure to TELL the whole story when you are asked about of pesticides. For example, go back and last sentence of each of those three paragraphs. This is what you would expect to hear from and, truthfully, it doesn't tell the whole story either, now does it. We can be just as guilty as the media in spreading half truths if we don't own up to potential problems with misuse. When you tell the whole story and stress that properly trained, professional applicators, using products according label specifications, pose no undue risk to the general public, the kind of stories that appear in the headlines will carry much less weight in your member's mind. And you will be looked upon as the true professional you are. ^ to Tire W holesalers Co., Inc. •As our name implies, we are a wholesaler of tires. •We are an established business, having been in business for over 22 years. •We deliver. •We have UPS service daily. •We guarantee what we sell. •We want your business. •We have a huge inventory of Passenger, High Performance, Truck, Trailer, Motorcycle, Carlisle Lawn & Garden, Industrial Tires & Tubes, Shocks, Struts, Custom Mag Wheels and Accessories, all in stock for immediate delivery. (CORDOVillj) 4&pj ux^Rmstrqng^ / I i r e i . l i P J .IlH L T J S L r CADILLAC WAREHOUSE 303 Hawthorn Street Cadillac, Ml 49601 (616) 7 7 5 -6 6 6 6 N E W ! N E W I N E W ! TROY DISTRIBUTION CENTER 1783 E. 14 Mile Road Troy, Ml 48083 (313) 5 8 9 -9 9 1 0 SOUTHFIELD WAREHOUSE 19240 West 8 Mile Road Southfield, Ml 48075 (313) 3 5 4 -9 9 1 0 Turf C hem icals Inc. 1011 E. Main P.O. 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A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 8 • LEARNING FROM FAILED IDEAS by Steve Rebhan Superintendent at Chandler Park Golf Club very now and then somebody gets an idea that something can be done better. The following is an example of just that, and why failure shouldn't be feared, because something is always gained. This time, it was an education. During the winter of 1992, the "boss" asked, how can we increase the quality of our detail work such as trim work, flymowing and other labor-intensive, crew-hated tasks. As an alternative to the traditional method of assigning these jobs, the idea of giving specific crew members their "own" area of the course was suggested, hoping to instill a bit of pride within their own section to achieve this goal. While in school, I had heard of other golf courses using similar systems. So, with this idea in mind, the following plan was implemented in the spring of '92. Although the project failed, the lessons learned made it all worthwhile. The goal in "dividing" up the course was to give a sense of pride and increase job satisfaction to those crew members usually assigned the "undesirable" labor intensive duties, and also to increase the quality of the work, accountability and pride for each crew member. With the traditional method, an employee assigned to trim around trees could "just try to get through the day" and let the person assigned to trim around trees the next day worry about it. Using the "sectional" system, an employee knows he's responsible for "these" trees and there isn't going to be anyone else to do it. As a manager, the benefit would be the easy identification of employees who "weren't carrying their own weight." The idea was to divide the 18 holes at Great Oaks C.C. into four sections by area, each section containing four to five holes. For example, one section contained the four holes around the clubhouse, the first, ninth, tenth and eighteenth. Next, one employee was then assigned to each section to handle the daily tasks of hand mowing greens, fixing ball marks, hand raking bunkers and setting up the tee boxes on "their" holes. After completing the morning jobs, the crew member then would continue working on "their" section with trimming, hand mowing, debris pick-up, flymowing and other detail tasks within "their" area. (Most of the fairway, rough and tee mowing responsibilities are handled by retirees or veteran crew members.) Days off and absenteeism were handled by "rovers" who filled in as needed or participated on course improvement projects when available. On paper, and for the first month or so, it seemed like the "sectional" management system would really increase the productivity and the quality of work at Great Oaks C.C. However, as with most "new" ideas, if they were actually that great, someone else probably would have implemented the method long ago. The first problem was the variability with employees. As with any new group of employees, some are better than others. It developed that two of the employees were finishing up their tasks and being asked to help the weaker employees, thus losing all incentive to work hard. Plus, one of the better new employees was being "groomed" to become an irrigation tech, and the other had proven so versatile that he was being asked to do other tasks. This left their two sections open. On the other hand, while the "sectional" management quickly pointed out the weaker employees and made it quite clear that their services would no longer be needed by Great Oaks, this plan continued, but the lessons learned in that first month made it clear that a return to the traditional method would be inevitable. training Nevertheless, while the loss of two sectional workers and the promotion of the remaining two led to the demise of the "sectional" plan, it proved to be quite an educational experience for this assistant golf course superintendent. First, the promotion of two inside people to fill key positions helped to form a unified, loyal crew, which was very eager to learn, not to mention an example to the new employees that there are more than monetary rewards for hard, intelligent work. Second, the value of accountability the sectional plan provided by immediately highlighting key employees was something that helped this manager greatly, through immediately making new employees accountable, documenting poor performance and quickly dismissing employees without wasting valuable time them. (However, through assigning future tasks in a "beginning to end" fashion, i.e., trim trees, back nine, and then continue to assign that same person that task daily until it was completed, duplicated the plan accountability value.) Third, it taught this manager that not all employees are equal and very few are the same. Not unlike a basketball coach, a manager needs to know his/her personnel. Some enjoy the repetitive duties, such as greens mowing, while others are naturally gifted with carpentry or mechanical skills and can be in other better utilized positions. the "sectional" plan required numerous trips back to the maintenance facility. Although on paper it may seem that an employee can wash, and put away one piece of equipment and take out another in about five continued on page 20 sectional Fourth, A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 9 • B e in g a m e c h a n ic u s e d to m e a n b e in g a contortionist! NOW INTRODUCING THE IRION'LIFT "Before, it was almost impossible to see what I was doing, let alone repair it. Now, everything is right where I can see it . . . sitting down!" "I can save an hour or more each day on maintenance time." Ed Ward Highland Hills Municipal Golf Course THE ONLY LIFT DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR GOLF COURSE EQUIPMENT ■ U nobstructed underside provides easy access for all inspections and repairs. ■ Hydraulic leaks located and repaired w ith ease. H eight adjustm ents, oil drain, inspection of hoses and fittings becom e hassle-free. ■ SPEEDS ALL REPAIR TIMES! ■ N o m ore risk of dam aged eq u ip m en t and injury from ramps and jacks. ■ H ook-on attachm ents m ake servicing of w alk m owers and gang reels a snap. ■ M an y safety features; m eets A N SI standards. ■ Requires no special concrete footings. ■ Several m odels are available to lift all th ree- and four-w heel golf eq u ip m en t up to 2 ,60 0 lbs., such as greens and fairw ay m owers, aerators and sand trap m achines. Michigan Distributor: Green & Grow, Inc. Metro-Detroit Mike Plague 313- 979-3222 W. Metro & Mid-Michigan Larry Obey 313- 485-9561 Northern Michigan Bill Sinclair 616- 946-2372 Western Michigan Ray Bowers 616- 964-9989 Call us for m ore inform ation about this am azing product. & T R I O N A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 10 • f t I Around» Course e m b e r A c t i v i t i e s This column introduces a new feature by the MBCCCSA Executive Secretary Kate Mason, who will answer representative questions from the membership. Kate can be reached at 313-362-1108. An article about Warren Valley Golf Course appeared in The Detroit News on July 12. The course, one of only 450 built by the famous golf course architect Donald Ross, is owned by Wayne County. The article, by Jack Berry, points out the growing appreciation for Donald Ross courses, which are increasingly being restored as much as possible to the way they were designed. The article cited one of Warren Valley's Coif Course superintendent Tim Barno's immediate goals as improving the drainage and turf and filling in bare spots, which he seeds as much as possible to establish a good root system. "Doc Payne at Michigan State used to say the difference between seeding and sodding is the difference between real hair and a wig," Barno recalled. As part of its interest in preserving its unique heritage, Warren Valley is incorporating the Donald Ross name into its new logo, "Michigan arid Border Cities...Kate spe; "Hi, Kate. Pete Miller, here." "Hi, Pete. What can I do for you?" "I'd like to make a reservation for the next meeting." "Okay. I'll put you down." "I'm putting my check in the mail today." "Oh, Pete, for regular meetings you'll pay at the door. That's what that "Arrival Time" is scheduled for on the flyer. For some special activities, like Special Olympics or Golf Day, we require you to mail in your reservation with a check." "Will do." "You're in Canada, aren't you, Pete? Be sure you come prepared to pay with U.S. Funds... AND... everybody should make their checks payable to MBCCCSA, not the club where the meeting is being held." "Okay. Thanks, Kate." A Past Patch of Green TEN Y E A R S A G O (reprinted from A Patch of Green, October 1983) H O W t O Turn Complaints to Your Advantage do you How handle complaints from golfers? Nobody finds it easy to take criticism , especially when the gripes come from som eone whose only turfgrass experience is his dandelion-free lawn. Unfortunately, golf courses were built and superintendents hired for the benefit of golfers, a situation which often necessitates a kid-glove approach to complaints. Even if complaints are supposed to go to your green chairman, chances are you'll still have to field a few questions and comments from golfers who catch you on the course. Generally, they will be friendly, but there are always a few who aren't. The first rule is keep your temper. Some people actually enjoy harassing an employee and others have to find someone to blame for a bad round. However, if you stay cool, he will soon realize he is out of line. Hear him out. Many people who have honest complaints only reveal portions of their grievances because they are afraid you don't have time to listen to them. When you've heard the whole thing, try to give a thorough explanation. Above all, don't cut him off abruptly, even if you are in a hurry. Try to set up a time when you can go into the problem in detail if you think it is necessary. Don't try to laugh it off. If he is serious about his complaint, he probably won't be very receptive to a joke about it. After all, he may have a point. Don't try to cover up. Even if it's your fault, he'll be more impressed with your forthrightness than with a slick, superficial explanation which blames everything from the weather to last month's ladies tournament. There are some positive steps you can take to head off complaints. You can keep members informed of construction, maintenance operations and other problem areas on the course by posting signs in the pro shop, if your club has a monthly newsletter, you can use it to keep members informed of upcoming operations and explain why they are necessary. Some superintendents have found it helpful to compile regular reports of their operations so that everyone, including club employees, know not only what and when but also why an operation is taking place. You can also train your crew to successfully deal with problems on the course. Make sure they have enough information to handle the problem and that they realize they are representing you and the club when they handle a complaint or answer a question, t, A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 11 • TORO. A Turf Vehicles Toro introduces the long awaited in­ troduction of the Turf Vehicle. This rugged vehicle has 3 wheel maneu­ verability with 4 wheel versatility and stability. Let us show you its many uses! Call today for your free demon­ stration. 1-8 0 0-8 2 2 -2 2 1 6 Ml# Wilkie Y o u r L a w n C a r e S p e c ia lis t B 1050 Opdyke Road, P.O. Box 430749, Pontiac, Michigan 48343 - (313) 373-8800 Increase the Speed of Play Turn Complaints into Compliments... with FAST PLAY TECHNOLOGY Elite Turfgrass Seed Mixture as seen in PGA Magazine An innovative precision laser measurement marking system that's easily visible and doesn't interfere with maintenance. • Incremental 25 yard markers with color-coded posts every 50 yards • Professionally installed • Endorsed by Michigan PGA Professional Rodger Jabara Call or write for more info: FAST PLA Y TECHNOLOGY 32102 Howard St., Madison Heights, Ml 48071 fax: (313)583-3179 ph: (313)583-4851 Triple Play is the unique blend of ryegrasses that has been care­ fully selected to meet specific needs for seeding Athletic Fields, Lawn Areas and Golf Courses. Triple Play contains the elite turf-type ryegrasses of PENNANT, PEBB LE BEACH and STALLION. Triple Play will produce a beautiful dark green color with excellent heat and drought tolerance. ^ . . Seeding Recommendation 5 to 7 lbs. per 1,000 sq. ft. Turf C hem icals Inc. 1011 E. Main P.O. Box 451 Owosso, Michigan 48867 Phone: (517) 725-7145 FOR ALL OF YOUR FERTILIZER, CHEM ICAL AND G RASS SEED NEEDS A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 12 • by Katie Elsila JA N E ST. JO H N HEATHER HILLS GOLF CLUB 3100 McKail Rd. Romeo, Ml 48065 St. John^gpf the manager/superintendent of the Heather Hills Golf Club in Romeo. The course, which draws players from communities to its south such as Sterling Heights, Utica, Warren, Troy and Rochester, is located at one of the highest points in southeastern Michigan. Its hilly terrain and windy environment add new elements of difficulty for golfers. Originally the course was nine holes when it opened 14 years ago; it later added another nine to provide a picturesque 18 holes. "The back nine are the original holes. There's a 100 foot elevation change from the pump house to the clubhouse. You're always above and below the ball or standing halfway up or down. There's only a level lie on about two of the holes," explains Jane. "Most of our play comes from communities south of us. As the days grow shorter, golfers find it's a long way to go after work. Fall has gotten to be a nice, easy time for my grass to catch up," she says. "We have a running debate about which is the toughest hole. is Number one down, straight dog leg to the right. It has two ponds and a creek in front of the green. It's a tough starting hole. You can't get people off of it; they're seldom on the green in two. On weekends, we added a tee a little bit forward of where it originally was located, hoping to speed up play. "At #6, you're high at the tee with the fairway below you. You play it along fairway level and then the green is up about 50 feet. It's not a completely blind shot, but it is up. To hit it on the fly on your second shot is par 4." An advantage of the club's elevation is the excellent drainage. "We don't have a problem with flooding," says Jane. "During one heavy rainy period, many courses south of us were closed or not letting carts out. The rains stopped Sunday night, and we were dry by Monday morning. We sent golfers out on the back nine first because they dry a little quicker, but by the time they were making the turn, the course was dry. "The disadvantage is that it takes more water for us to irrigate," she adds. In a minority as a female golf club superintendent, Jane says, in general, her colleagues are receptive and don't seem to make a judgm ent one way or other. "Sometimes I have a hard time being taken seriously by golfers. Some men don't like to see women in any position of authority," she says. Jane grew up next to Lake Doster Golf Course near Kalamazoo and began washing dishes there when she was 15 to pay for a much-wanted horse (her eighth). Later, when continued on page 17 A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 13 • M E M B E R S H IP M E E T IN G UPDATE 1909 June Meeting atBHCC 3 ' & ^ulb MJ/#^ The June 14th meeting was held at Bloomfield Hills Country Club with Kevin Dushane as host superintendent. The course was in magnificent condition and the opportunity to use a caddie was enjoyable and relaxing. We hope we're able to do it again at various private clubs. Threatening weather all day finally a thunderstorm , the completion of the round by 45 minutes. up with delaying opened The golf format was as follows: Each group was given an orange ball. At each hole a different member of the group used it. The individual net score with the orange ball was the team score for the hole. The winning team of Dr. Joe Vargas, David Mahaney, Gordie La Fontaine and Cary. Thommes shot a team net score of 64. Special thanks goes to the pro shop staff and head professional Michael Kernicki for assisting in the scoring, organization of prizes and monitoring of weather conditions. An excellent buffet lunch was provided. Guest speaker was Tom Ellis of Michigan State University's Department of Entomology, who discussed the gypsy moth condition in Michigan. He handed out Extension Bulletin E-2302 (see July- August issue for excerpts). Ellis explained the life cycle, mentioning that in the fall buff colored egg masses containing 50-1,500 eggs appear. He recommends scratching them from the surface into a coffee can or similar receptacle and burying or burning them. Monitor your trees, and with enough education about gypsy moths you can make an intelligent decision. The meeting was well attended; more than 100 people participated. Thanks again to the professionalism of the staff of Bloomfield Hills Country Club. Bloomfield Hills Country Club's Kevin Dushane receiving a plaque from President Ken DeBusscher in recognition of Kevin’s hard work in hosting the meeting. individual low net winners with 63 were Bob Rabideau (L) of Special Touch Engraving and Don Fields of Lawn Equipment. The winners in the golf championship were: CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT •Overall Champion Low Gross Mark Policht-79 •Second Low Gross Jay DelCamp-81 •First Low Net Jeff Akers-74 •Second Low Net Tom Stark-78 FIRST FLIGHT •First Low Gross Ron Abbott-85 •Second Low Gross Paul Kolbe-86 •First Low Net Rich Bellars-74 •Second Low Net Roy Szyndlar-77 SECOND FLIGHT •First Low Gross Earl Prieskorn-88 •Second Low Gross Jim Vlassic-98 •First Low Net John Shannahan-79 •Second Low Net Martin Fuchs-83 VENDOR FLIGHT •First Low Gross Ray Manion-80 •Second Low Gross Larry 0bey-80 •First Low Net Frank Forier-69 •Second Low Net Mike Plague-73 •Third Low Net Jim Theiser-75 A Patch o f Green, September/October 1993 • 14 • M E M B E R S H IP M E E T IN G UPDATE July Meeting at Dunham Hills Dunham Hills Golf and Country Club hosted the July 8 membership meeting. The day began with an educational discussion on the topic of "Pond Management." The guest speaker on this topic was Ted Batterson from the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Michigan State University. Mr. Batterson suggested that limiting a pond's intake of fertility and sediment is the best way to prevent algae and weed problems. Some physical treatments discussed were circulation and/or aeration, dredging, dyes and harvesting. He also discussed chemial treatments of herbicides and algaecides, but said that these actions have only temporary benefits. Some of the drawbacks associated with this course of action include reduced oxygen, sedimentation build up, restricted use and recurring expenditures. We would like to thank Mr. Batterson for his informative discussion. For more information on the topic of water management, call Don Carling at MSU, (517) 353- 1989. Following the aquatics discussion, 68 of us teed it up for the annual MBCCCSA golf championship. Host Tom Stark and his crew had the formidable layout of Dunham Hills in fabulous condition. The day's events concluded with a delicious steak dinner with all the trimmings. Our congratulations go to the winners of this year's golf championship. And our thanks go to Tom and all the staff at Dunham Hills for a memorable outing. MALE G YPSY MOTH PHEROMONE TRAP CATCH OAKLAND COUNTY 1985-1992 300-1 Above: First flight winner Ron Abbott of Bogie Lake Golf Club (L.) with education chairman Dave Picot of Port Huron Country Club. Middle: Bob Pontiius counts his skin money very carefully!! Below: Dunham Hills Superintendent Tom Stark congratulates overall champion Mark Policht. 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 Y E A R A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 15 • CONTRACTORS TOY BOX ! PALACE EQUIPMENT RENTAL INC. 4640 Lapeer Road • Orion, Ml 48359 (313) 373-8200 • FAX (313) 373-0398 A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 16 • toxicitnR EXPOSURE The following is a comparison of "acute" oral LD 50 values (MF/KC) of some familiar household items, as well as certain pesticides. The chemicals are listed from the most toxic to the least toxic (the smaller the number, the more toxic the material): LD50 ITEM Warfarin (D-Con)............................3 Parathion (Ethyl)............................8 Parathion (Methyl).........................(17 avg.) Strychnine.....................................30 Kerosene........................................50 Nicotine.........................................83 Gasoline.........................................150 Caffeine (Coffee,Tea)....................200 Aspirin............................................750 Subdue 2 E .....................................1290-3000 Banner...........................................1310 Table Salt........................................3750 Pace...............................................4000 Citation..........................................4460 Ethyl Alcohol (Drinkable)...............4500 Borax..............................................4980 Sprint 330......................................5000 Pennant 5G....................................5030 Triumph 4E (Diluted).....................5050 Subdue 2G.....................................5050 Sprint 138 Fe.................................8119 How TOXIC something is doesn't tell you anything about how much RISK there is in handling it. For example, gasoline is very TOXIC if you ingest it (LD 50 is 150 mg/kg). But as long as you don't drink it or extensively breathe it, it doesn't present a significant health RISK, We handle chemicals every day that are TOXIC, but they don't necessarily present any particular RISK because our EXPOSURE is low. Studies show that most exposures to turf and ornamental chemicals occur during mixing, loading and application. When performing these funcitons, the hands, forearms and ankles account for 98% of the occurrences of dermal exposure. A Rutgers University study shows that simply wearing proper gloves, rubber boots and a long- sleeved shirt can reduce dermal exposure by 98%. Take time to be safe. Make sure you and your staff wear appropriate protective equipment. Wash your hands and/or take a long shower after handling chemicals. Be informed, be prepared, be safety conscious! Excerpted from The Worker Riaht-To-Know Training Workshop. participant manual, CIBA-GEIGY Turf and Ornamental Products. G O L F c l u b MEMBER FOCUS continued from page 13 she became an education major at Western Michigan University, she continued working at the club and was eventually asked to assume responsibility for night watering. The outdoor work really hooked her, and she was on her way to an unexpected career in golf course management. This is her sixth year at Heather Hills Golf Club. Perhaps it is those education courses or her innate good humor that is responsible for Jane's excellent rapport with her employees. "We've had the same crew for five years and it makes all the difference in the world," she says. "It's a real team effort. Everybody knows how what they do impacts on their fellow workers. I don't have to do much in the way of discipline. If one of the employees is not pulling their weight, the others let them know." Because she is also general manager, Jane has clubhouse responsibilities in addition to superintendent tasks. This makes a positive difference, too, since the employees know they are reporting to a manager who really understands the big picture. Also, by rotating staff inside and out she keeps them interested in their jobs. Jane takes part of the 14-member staff for a golf outing at least once a month. Besides boosting staff morale, these getaways "force me to make time to play,” she says. She also encourages her crew to play on their course as much as possible after work. "If they have trouble putting because the rough is too rough, it makes it easier to understand why I ask them to do certain things. I'm not just harassing them." When she began the job, Jane averaged 90 hours a week. Now she says she works between 50-60 hours. All her "spare time" goes to her husband, John, and their two sons, Nick, 4, and Alex, 8. Jane manages the clubhouse from her home through the winter. "We usually close the club at the end of November, she says. "I lock up the doors, board up the windows and go home." A Patch o f Green, September/October 1993 • 17 • w v v v Y V V V V HUGGETT SOD FARM, INC. •TOP QUALITY SOD • Nugget +11 (Bluegrass Blend) Grade A or Commercial on Peat or Top Soil Base Shade Mix (Bluegrass, Fescue Mix) Good on Sandy Soils or in Shade Penncross Bent (Grown on washed mason sand or loam soil) Pennlinks Bent (Grown on Loam Soil) • DELIVERY • Michigan — Ohio — Indiana SHADE & ORNAMENTAL TREES • BULK SPAGNUM PEAT • Ph: 800-432-2763 4114 East Marlette Rd. • Marlette, Ml 48453 5 1 7 -6 3 5 -7 4 8 2 FF-II is your first line defense against winter diseases In university testing Scotts FF-II has consistently out­ performed all other PCNB products. In one convenient application, FF-II controls pink and gray snowmold, cool season brown patch, leaf spot, dollar spot, stripe smut and rust while providing a dormant feeding of 14-3-3 fertilizer for early spring green-up. Ask your ProTurf® Tech Rep for details. JOHN SKAIFE Senior Technical Representative The O.M. Scott & Sons Company Professional Business Group 9120 Sandison Drive White Lake, Ml 48386 Tel (313) 698-2358 or 1-800-543-0006 today. KEEP IT GREEN WITH BENHAM CHEMICALS P r o m p t d e l iv e r y , f a s t & e a s y w il l c a l l ,w ith TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOUR NEEDS FARMINGTON HILLS LOCATION 24800 N. Industrial Drive PHONE: (313) 4 7 4 -7 4 7 4 (800) 4 8 2 -6 5 2 0 (Ml ONLY) FAX: (313) 4 7 4 -3 2 2 8 Mon.-Fri. 3:00 AM-4:30 PM SAGINAW LOCATION 300 Cass Avenue PHONE: (517) 7 9 3 -8 2 1 0 FAX: (517) 7 9 3 -8 6 9 5 8:00 AM-12:00 Noon Mon.-Fri., Your one stop source for: Fertilizers*Herbicides*lnsecticides»Fungicides •Aquatic Chemicals*Grass Seed and more Turf & Landscape Supplies Distributing Milorganite RINSER usircx ■ IHt EX STANDS TOO EXCELLENCE E X P E D IT E COUNTR^&LUB greenskéeper Professional Turf Products A Patch of Green, September/October 1995 • 18 • MEMBERFby Katie Elsila If we had been a car dealer, we would have been a Ford, Chevrolet and Plymouth dealership all in one house," says Don Benham, describing unique Benham Chemical Corp. Had he followed the concept upon which Benham Chemical was founded in 1979. the accepted practice of the time, Benham's company would have a represented single manufacturer. But, Don Benham had a different idea. "I wanted to represent a range of com peting companies so I could offer customers the product that best suited their needs," he says. table and a Operating from an office consisting of a telephone, a card lamp borrowed from his daughter's dresser, Benham set out to overcome the skepticism of major chemical manufacturers toward his unique proposition: namely, that Benham Chemical could do a better job for them if it had the option of placing their products where they could best be used in that marketplace—in other words, representing them and their competitors. By 1984 he had succeeded to the point where other chemical companies adopted his idea. Today Benham Chemical generally credited with pioneering this change in the way chemicals are now sold to the Green is , - Corporation of turf Of Benham's seven staffers, four are former golf course superintendents. The combined years growing experience of Benham's sales staff is 230 years! Paula Dietz, who was with Benham Chemical since its beginning and whom Benham calls "one of the best turf experts in this state," was the first turf extension agent for the State of Michigan. (Dietz, now Benham's daughter-in- law, has chosen to remain home at this time to raise her children, but shares her considerable expertise by acting as a resource for the company.) Two recent staff appointments are general manager Dan Banks, formerly sales manager at Shemin Nursery, and Dan Shemon, promoted to sales manager from sales representative. "We take a staff that already is highly knowledgeable and ensure that they are consistently trained by the individual manufacturers in the usage, precautions and benefits of each of their products," explains Benham. This knowledge ensures the proper product for the customer's need and often includes manufacturer support. It is common place for the Benham representative to be joined by the manufacturer representative for on-site diagnosis and consultation. "We constantly receive information from universities and manufacturers, who spend a great deal of time, effort and money developing the accuracy of their statements and material," he continues. "Our job is to stay on top of this information so we can inform Don Benham, founder of Benham Chemical. Top: Dan Shemon, sales manager of Benham Chemical. Bottom: Benham’s warehouse manager, Leon Dziadzio. Industry in Michigan. Offering customers the right product for their needs is the heart of Benham Chemical Corporation. "Probably, there is nothing we sell that a customer can't buy from another company—and sometimes cheaper. The only unique thing that we have to sell is the quality of our service," says Benham. "We think we do an outstanding job amidst some excellent competition," he adds. A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 19 • continued from page 9 minutes, this proved to be an impossibility. (Also, the "change-over" time increased exponentially with the number of fellow crew members that were inside the building; everyone always has a story to tell.) Finally, it helped this manager's morale when his boss first allowed him to try the idea, and then didn't blame him or become upset as it became apparent that the plan wasn't going to last. In conclusion, while the "sectional" plan had been completely last a lifetime. deserted by mid-summer, the lessons learned will And without a doubt, the two greatest lessons were don't be afraid to try something new and failures aren't always bad. Both can be highly educational, You Talked... We Listened. And This is What We Heard. TURFGRASS INC. S e r v i n g y o u b e t t e r w i t h . . Technical information Fungicide programs Free timely delivery ... Quality products Fertilizers Chemicals The Andersons, Lebanon Country Club, Nitroform, Turfgrass Dupont, Ampel, Ciba-Geigy, W.A. Cleary, Chipco, Daconil, Mobay, Elanco, NAIAD, Dow, Monsanto, Bio Greenskeeper, Agri Diagnostics, Mallinckrodt, Nor-Am, Riverdale, Pana Sea, Miller, Agri-Plex 4X Seeds Northrup King Medalist Turf Products Spreaders & Sprayers Cyclone, Spyker, Back Pack, Wheely, Spray-Hawk Golf Supplies Lewisline, Par Aide, Standard, Fore- Par, Yankee, United Stockmen, Chix, Fox Valley Safety Equipment Mine Safety Equipment Soil Management Grid System, TerraFlow, TerraBond, TerraCover Markers Richway, Blazon 1 -3 1 3 -4 3 7 -1 4 2 7 Office 1 -8 0 0 -5 2 1 -8 8 7 3 (Michigan Only) Rich Locke Douglas Johanningsmeier Keith Richards Gene Johanningsmeier B E N H A M C H E M IC A L S 24800 N. Industrial Drive PHONE: (3 1 3 ) 4 7 4 -7 4 7 4 (800) 4 8 2 -6 5 2 0 (Ml ONLY) FAX: (3 1 3 ) 4 7 4 -3 2 2 8 Mon.-Fri. 3:00 AM-4:30 PM A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 20 • BENHAM CHEMICAL CORPORATION Member Focus continued from page 19 our customers about exactly what is available and educate them in its proper usage. We believe that every chemical we sell is completely safe if used within the contents of the label. "We are now looking forward toward environmental management products," states Benham. "New chemistry today is starting to provide products which use three to four times less active ingredient while providing superior control," he continues. "Benham Chemicals represents these manufacturers and is introducing this new chemistry currently." Benham is well aware of the pressures on the golf course superintendent from members and customers. "Many of our public courses today are kept at a level that country clubs were maintained at in the past," he says. "The expectations of golfers today as compared to 10 years ago are unbelievable." Benham Chemical's job is to help the superintendent exceed those high expectations, h. Top: Benham Chemical in Farmington, Ml. Below: Benham’s warehouse stocks a full inventory. R esignW o o o m fr I N T E R L O C K I N G T I M B E R S DESIGNWOOD® does naturally what you only wish could be done with d e railroad ties and other timber landscaping products. ♦ TIME & LABOR SAVINGS * LESS FACILITY DOWNTIME ♦ NO CHAIN SAW CONSTRUCTION I D E A L F O R . . . * Retaining Walls * Terracing * Planters / Borders * Tee Boxes * Tree Rings * “Divot Filler” Boxes Available in 4x4 and 6x6 Lengths: 2\ 4’, 6' & 8’ Distributed By J o h n A . B ie w e r L u m b e r C o m p a n y 313/329-4789 V L a n d s c a p in g M a d e E a s y I A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 21 • Their Approach To Boosting Potash. Our Approach To Boosting Potash. Blended products may cost less. But when you use a blend for boosting potash, you’re sacrificing a lot. Namely, balanced and efficient nutrient distribution. And a raw mate­ rial option that’s not as complete. Or a product that’s simply too high in nitrogen. Enter Country Club 8-4-24. Designed to improve dis­ ease tolerance. Create less clippings. And enhance drought resistance. All in a homogeneous mixture to ensure bal­ anced, even nutrient distribution. Leave it to Country Club to out­ distance the competi­ tion. Once again. Country Club 8-4-24 BENHAM CHEMICAL CORPORATION 24800 N. Industrial Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 ( 3 1 3 ) 4 7 4 - 7 4 7 4 ( 8 0 0 ) 4 8 2 - 6 5 2 0 m i only The No. I name in gotf course irrigation. It’s no coincidence that the country’s top golf courses use TORO irrigation systems. Because there are more TORO systems installed on golf courses than any other kind. For a number of very good reasons. \W W ilk ie Your Lawn Care Specialist TORO 1050 Opdyke Road, R.O. Box 450749, Routine, Michigan 48545 - (515) 575-8800 A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 22 • one hard working dollar; anyway you slice - The money you give to the United Way helps fund almost 140 charitable agencies. So every dollar works hard help­ ing to house the homeless, feed the hungry and shelter the abused here in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. And that’s just for starters. Your dollar also helps fund medical care and research, provides family counseling and much more. More people than ever before are count­ ing on your dollars. So won’t you please give more of them to the United Way? Because, of all the needs we face in the tri-county area this year, the biggest one of all is your support. U n ib e d W ^ y for Southeastern Michigan Still the best way to show you care. 1212 GRISWOLD, DETROIT, MI 4 8 2 2 6 A Patch of Green, September/October 1995 • 23 • FLORIDA • GEORGIA • ILLINOIS • INDIANA • KENTUCKY • MICHIGAN • WISCONSIN - GOLF'S IRRIGATIO How CRA Helps Superintendents: \ •Complete stock of irrigation supplies gyWater conservation analysis & troubleshooting • Assistance in pumping improvement and pumping cost efficiency fyOrainage solutions ^Fountains • Aerators • Pump Management ll; Improvements of energy-usage cost Technical Assistance R a /n ^ B / r d , PMFBRRED BY PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE VV cd Z< Xo o=> . Jon Shreve Roy Szyndlar A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 27 • J\J GOLF COURSE INTENDENTS' IPIONSHIP camp, Tournament Chairman Once again it is time to pull off the work boots and polish up the golf shoes and clubs. The Oolf Course Superintendents of Michigan will hold the 7th Annual Championship on September 16th at the beautiful Fortress in Frankenmuth. All the frustrations of the year can be taken out on the little white pill. This annual event has become the success that we hoped it would be seven years ago when it was first conceived. Everything takes a little time, and with the help of the host superintendents and sponsors the participation has doubled in the last two years. Superintendent Scott Watkins had his course looking and playing terrific last year, even though he had two inches of rain the night before and a wind that brought us all to our knees. Hopefully, the weather will cooperate for us this year. Sixty participants managed to start and finish in 1992, and we are hoping that everyone returns again to "The Fortress" in September. The entries went out in August. So, hopefully, you have returned your registration form and ensured your place in the championship. T IR E D OF THE RESPONSE YOU’RE GETTING? GIVE YOUR MARKETING MATERIALS A WAKE UP CALL! Let & ROBB, INC. create your next brochure, direct mail piece, advertisement...or an entire magazine. Our visuals and copy will awaken your customers to your products and services. Call today! (313) 642-9580 ADVERTISERS Directory / American Marine............................23 Am turf............................................IBC Anchor Marine..................................8 Andersons ........................................ 2 Beck S o d ......................................... 28 Benham Chemical ..........18,20,22,26 Biewer Lum ber...............................21 Bush Bros........................................... 4 Century Rain A id .............................24 D & C Distributors.............................8 DaveyTree.........................................5 Fast Play Tech...................................12 Green & C ro w ................................. 10 H uggettSod................................... 18 Kunckel, C.R........................................4 Lawn Equip ....................................... 2 Lebanon T u rf.................................... 4 Lesco..................................................4 Osburn Industries.............................6 Palace...............................................16 Rhone-Poulenc ................................7 Scotts...............................................18 Standard Sand ................................24 Sw eetco...........................................26 TCI..................................................8,12 Terra.................................................24 Thesier.............................................IFC Tire Wholesalers................................8 Turfgrass...........................................20 Wilkie Turf.........................................12 Wilkie Irrigation................................22 W.F, Miller.........................................BC POSITION W ANTED: Golf Course professional recently relocated to Michigan seeks position. Was superintendent at Oak Meadow Country Club, Rolla, Missouri. Managed seven man crew, ordered and scheduled chemical usage and supervised ground maintenance. Graduate of turf management program at Danville Community College, Danville, Illinois. Brad Cruts, 6747 Balfour, Allen Park, Ml 48101.(313)388- 7620. References Available. To Place Your Classified Ad Contact A Patch of Green at (313) 642- 9580, Fax, (313) 642-5290, or mail your ad to: 30600 Telegraph Road, Suite 1386, Bingham Farms, Ml 48025. Payment must accompany copy! Charges: $ .75 per word, minimum charge $10. Borders, bold lettering or special set-up additional charge. Shore Control BRIDGES • DAMS • BOARDWALKS SEAW ALLS — Steel • Wood PVC C LOC Boulders C o m p lete Jobs or Products O nly FR EE Q U O TES — (313) 8 8 7 -7 8 5 5 Beck Sod Fount (517) 864-3549 • Quality Sod • Bluegrass Blend • Shade Mix • Northern Mix •GOLF GREENS MIX «SHADE TREES •BULK HORTICULTURAL PEAT MOSS A Patch of Green, September/October 1993 • 28 • AM TURF Aluminum Edging QUALITY PRO D U CTS NEXT DAY DELIVERY & Rit-A-W eed WEED CONTROL BLANKET Keeps unsightly weeds out of landscapes and driveways. Fertilizer Crabgrass Preventer 20*3*5 • Weed & Feed 28*3*8 Lawn P atch HYDRO MITE Lawn Patch Applicator An econom ical alternative for small to medium size seeding jobs. Rentals Available. For more information call us today - toll free. Earthw ay Sp read ers B lack S ta r Eagle Edging RA’SORB Absorbs 3 0 0 -4 0 0 times its weight in water, reduces watering by 50% or m ore. Saves you time and money. ACF Silt Fence Polypropylene fibers are treated to resist degradation caused by sunlight. WOOD FIBER MULCH 6*24*24 1 9 *1 9 *1 9 CUSTOM BLEND FERTILIZER 12 * 12*12 15*30*15 25*5*15 Turf Grass Specialist Custom Mixes and Blends to Your Specifications Brighton, MI 4 8 1 1 6 313/ 632-5640 — 800/ 482-3130 Bradley, MI 4 9 3 1 1 616/ 792-2241 — 800/ 632-1998 7" diameter, 10-blade reels deliver the high torque to handle all kinds of grasses and conditions beautifully. Plus, 26" balanced reels and our unique rear roller down pressure system produce tournament quality results at production mowing speeds, hugging undulations other machines would scalp. Accessibility you’ll flip over. The entire operator platform and rear hood flip up, completely out of the way for easy access to all key components. Also, the center cutting unit slides back, for quick, easy adjustments. Comforting news for operators. V g / \ jf f ~ . | t i I § wF ^ v ^ H m ^ ^ 9 ÆmfF s The LF-3810 is loaded with operator comfort features, including: full suspension seat f . r l with armrests; 5-position tilt, power steering; easier two-pedal hydrostatic drive; full instru- m r mentation; even holders for their favorite soft drink |=j | and personal items. I r helps you handle ^ * p J | | . J | \ I | j | H ------ ■ I K # Transverse engine mounting slopes with confidence. This up-front automotive design produces surprising traction and excellent climbing ability in a 2-wheel drive unit. l af JtoAggF ‘I I M M e Exclusive SynchroLift control— Cross cutting at its easiest & most productive. A simple push or pull of the syn­ chronized lift levers is all it takes with this system. The machine auto­ matically raises the reels to turning height, then lowers them for nimble, flawless cross cutting. Maintain a spotless reputation A Jg ^ggM tiflk ^ 0 on the fairway with GreenSentry™ Our advanced oil leak detection system is stan- dard, to give you every advantage possible on the fairway. The list goes on and on. Variable-speed, power backlapping; 3,4 or 5 gang operation; heavy-duty hydraulic system; a 38 hp, liquid- cooled Kubota diesel... the quality features just never seem to quit. For a complete list of features and benefits, as well as a complete dem­ onstration, contact your Jacobsen ^ distributor today. Jr IJ | The Professional’s Choice On Turf. Shown with ^ optional roll over protection structure 30600 Telegraph Suite #1386 Bingham Farms, Ml 48025 The Official Publication of the Michigan and Border Cities Coif Course Superintendents Association TEXTRON Jacobsen Division of Textron, Inc. W. F. MILLER COMPANY Turf & Industrial Equipment 25125 Transx-X, P.0. Box 605 • Novi, Ml 48376 (313) 349-4100 Fax (313) 349-0406 24 Hour Phone/Fax Order Line (800) 642-9915 1 0 8 9 NMTA B r . Jam es B e a rd D e p t, o-f C ro p & T e x a s A & M C o l S t a t l e g e i o n