Board of Directors yr*s President M A TTH EW CEPLO, CGCS Rockland Country Club Vice President A N T H O N Y G IR A R D I, CGCS Rockrimmon Country Club Cover: Trump Treasurer R O B E R T NIELSEN JR ., CGCS National G o lf Club, Bedford G olf & Tennis Club Bedminster, NJ. Secretary G LEN N PERRY, CGCS Rolling Hills Country Club Past President WILLIAM H E IN T Z Pound Ridge G olf Club R O B E R T A LO N ZI JR . St. Andrew's G olf Club K EN N E T H B E N O IT JR ., CGCS GlenArbor G olf Club G EO R G E C O R G A N Steven IVilland Inc. DAVID D U D O N ES North Jersey Country Club GLEN DUBE, CGCS Centennial G olf Club BLAKE H ALDERM AN, CGCS Brae Burn Country Club TH O M A S LEAHY, CGCS Sleepy Hollow Country Club SC O T T O LSO N n this Issue Scarsdale G olf Club Executive Secretary INEKE P IE R P O IN T Tee to Green Staff Editors ROB ALONZI 914-478-5713 DAVE DUDONES 973-942-0566 j Managing Editor PANDORA C.WOJICK Editorial Com m ittee : KEVIN COLLINS SCOTT NIVEN ERIC O ’NEILL | PAULGRABBE BILL PERLEE 1 DENNIS GRANAHAN GLENN PERRY ■ c h ip LAFFERTY MIKE REEB I NICK LERNER 1 DAVE MOFFETT MIKETOLLNER GREGWOJICK Designer Feature A N o-nonsense Approach to Keeping the ........................................... 2 Locks O ff Your Course’s Water Rights D o n ’t Wait Till the Well Runs D r y ...........................................................5 SU N Y-D elhi Takes Proactive Approach to Water Conservation Departments Government Relations Update ................................................................. 7 TERRIE DUNKELBERGER Photographer Scorecard.......................................................................................................... 8 BILL PERLEE Advertising Manager U pcom in g Events ....................................................................................... 12 ROB ALONZI, 914-478-5713 TEETOGREENispublishedbimonthly by the Metropolitan Golf Course Superintendents Association 49 Knollwood Road, Elmsford, NY 10523-2819 914-347-4653, FAX: 914-347-3437, METGCSA. Copyright © 2008 M ember N ew s................................................................................................13 Spotlights ......................................................................................... 10, 11, 14 A Lesson in Communication SERIALS SEP 1 9 2008 ' q \A O ' MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES ^ ’m here on my back deck with my laptop sipping a cup o f coffee. The rain-delayed third round o f the PGA is scheduled to start in a little while. The storms that delayed the championship are scheduled to hit us this afternoon. I don’t know about you but we have gotten our share o f thunder boomers this year. On one hand, our irrigation pond is full. On the other hand, we don’t need it. The other prob­ lem: Our bunkers are taking a beating. We’ve been fixing washouts every week. Makes m e wonder, is it really that bad or is it just those midsum mer “Poor m e’s” at work? Well I, for one, am hop­ ing the storms miss us today. The day’s actually started off on a good note. My Sunday staff raked the bunkers, mowed greens, changed tee markers and cups. The irrigation system cycled through, with only one stuck head. (Don’t try to roll the ball up on Number 5 today. It’s soft after several hours of watering.) A Pointed Conversation This Sunday, like most Sundays, I spent time around the clubhouse and locker rooms catching up with members. This is also the day I usually meet with Tom, my green chairman, over a cup of coffee. On this par­ ticular Sunday, we started talking about cur­ rent course conditions: the good, the bad, and the ugly. The good is that the greens are rolling fine and starting to dry out from Wednesday’s rain. Also positive is that last week’s anthracnose seems to be in check. Topping the bad list are the bunkers. The edges have gotten soft from pushing sand back up the slopes after all the washouts. I can hear it now . . . the dreaded “plugged ball” complaint. As for the ugly, it’s all the weeds ... every­ where you look. Brings back memories of the weed course I took in college. On the first day, the professor told us we were going on a field trip to search out weeds. I was ready to put on my hiking boots and go on a scouting mission, but all we had to do was hang our heads out the door and there they were—weeds of every variety. The same seems to be the case on the course this year. We have weeds everywhere— or at least it seems that way. We took down a bunch of trees over the winter and filled the stump holes with weeds. We’ve gone from clover, to prostrate spurge to crabgrass to nutsedge. It’s been a never-ending cycle of weeds. The next point of discussion: how most members want to spend the capital we have available for improvement projects. In our case, it was ... you guessed i t ... on sprucing up the bunkers. Now 12 years old, our bunkers are definitely starting to show their age. Drainage has become compromised; edges, as I mentioned, have deteriorated; and washouts have contaminated the sand in many of the bunkers. As bad as they are, M att Ceplo, C G C S M etG C SA President we’re caught in a kind of limbo. While some bunkers are worse than others, they don’t all need to be rebuilt. The Pluses of Impromptu Communications So here’s where communication comes into play all the more. I decided it would be a good idea to determine what members con­ sidered to be the five worst bunkers. I put together a simple one-page survey and started handing them out. Next time we get together, my green chairman and I will review the results to determine which bunkers need to be worked on most. When we talk about the importance of communicating with our memberships, we often think of written communcations: newsletter articles and email blasts. While those are essential, we can’t overlook the importance of informal meetings with our green chairman or with members and guests. Informal conversations allow you to solicit feedback on the course and, just as important, correct any misinformation or misperceptions that inevitably surface from time to time. Well, I wonder how the PGA is doing. Speaking of communication, they’re getting some pretty harsh comments on the way that course is set up. Remember, it’s their tour­ nament, not the USGA’s, Augusta’s, or the British’s. Are they listening to their mem­ bers? Interesting, isn’t it? By the way, the storms missed us. There is a god. Matt Ceplo, CGCS President Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u s t 2 0 0 8 nonsense Approach to Keeping the Locks Water Rights by Kathy Conard & Kelly Durfee Cardoza Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u s t 2 0 0 8 ant to make a golf course superintendent’s blood run cold in the heat of summer? Utter the words “water restric­ tions.” Water use is one of the most serious issues facing the game of golf today. As envi­ ronmental groups, the general public, and the regulatory community become increasingly concerned and vocal about water use and quality, golf course superintendents must make a grander play to protect their courses’ water rights—ensuring that water regulators give their needs equal representation and consideration before any restrictions or con­ servation measures are mandated. The best route to making your needs heard is to establish yourself in your commu­ nity and among state legislators as a leader in water resource management. This involves much more than just establishing a strong water management strategy. Equally impor­ tant is that you: • Understand and adhere to our state’s poli­ cies and requirements. • Establish yourself as a steward of the envi­ ronment, in word and deed. • Support the work of local task forces and government relations groups. • Influence and educate community mem­ bers with influence over regulators. Here’s a sensible plan of attack: Know—and Abide by—the Law Before you can even begin to defend your course’s water rights, you should be well versed in current rules and regulations gov­ erning water use on your course. Kelly Cardoza, owner of Avalon Consulting, a per- mitting and regulatory compliance company, offers a quick take on state policies and requirements. New Jersey Water use in New Jersey is regulated by the Department of Environmental Protection. Water Supply Allocation Permits are required for facilities having the capacity to divert more than 100,000 gallons of water over any 24-hour period. To obtain a permit for irri­ gation, a golf course must submit an emer­ gency response plan, which outlines drought management strategies. The New Jersey DEP recommends that all golf courses consider efficient water use practices as part of their daily maintenance regime and keep accurate records. The DEP emphasizes that all this goes a long way toward helping to avert a water emergency and the need to impose water restrictions later. New York Water use regulations in New York vary depending on where in the state your course is located. The Susquehanna River and the Delaware River Basins are regulated on the withdrawal and/or consumptive loss of water at volumes ranging from 10,000 gallons per day (gpd) to 100,000 gpd. On Long Island, permits are required for wells pumping at rates in excess of 45 gpm. Rockland County has aggressive countywide drought restric­ tions. In the very near future, laws will change, and sites located within the Great Lakes Basin will be required to comply with regulations requiring water conservation. At this time, these courses are required to regis­ ter withdrawals in excess of 100,000 gpd. The New York Department of Conser­ vation recommends that all golf courses con­ sider development of nonpotable water sources, reuse of wastewater, and collection of on-site storm water. The department also recommends that golf courses adopt efficient water use practices daily. Connecticut Water use in Connecticut is regulated by the Department of Environmental Protection. The permit is called a Diversion Permit and is for water diversions of 50,000 gallons or mote over any 24-hour period. To obtain a permit for irrigation in Connecticut, golf courses must evaluate alternatives and submit a drought emergency contingency plan. For more detailed information on regula­ tions in your area, feel free to contact Kelly Cardoza at 508-880-2905. Keep in Mind: Actions Speak Louder Than Words Prove your commitment to water and envi­ ronmental stewardship by voluntarily imple­ menting water conservation practices and integrating them into your daily mainte­ nance regime. In addition to displaying your commitment to efficient water use, you’re sending a positive message to state regulatory agencies and the general public. When you enhance your reputation as water-use ex­ perts, you increase your chances of having an equal seat at the table when water policy dis­ cussions arise. Everyday practices that go a long way to­ ward enhancing turfgrass managers’ image as stewards of the environment include: • Maintaining accurate water-use records • Conducting irrigation audits • Upgrading computer systems to more accurately pinpoint where—and when—to apply water, tracking and basing decisions on soil type, slope, E/T, and weather • Install subsurface moisture sensors to allow you to determine water needs more precisely • Maximize irrigation efficiency by using wetting agents, which are known to reduce water use up to 30 percent • Develop drought contingency plans • Use effluent water (see page 5) Also effective in influencing government and environmental groups is to write— and make public—a Best Management Practices pro­ gram for water conservation on your course. These programs generally involve a combi­ nation of proper plant selection and cultural maintenance practices that provide adequate turf quality while minimizing water use. (See page 6.) “Building good relationships with the local community and regulatory agencies,” says Pound Ridge Superintendent Will Heintz, “is fundamental to implementing a successful water management plan. In my estimation, there are two key points in build­ ing successful relationships: Be proactive and establish credibility. This helps to build trust and, in some cases, even empathy. “Officials and regulators need to know that you’re doing everything in your power to meet their standards,” Will continues. “After all, their standards are set forth to pro­ tect our wetlands, our groundwater, and our watershed... a common goal for all of us!” Backing you in your efforts to make your water needs—and best management prac­ tices—known among legislators are our local water task forces and government relations groups. In addition, GCSAA offers resources to local chapters to guide them in working with governing bodies at the state and local levels to get them the information they expect. One of the most powerful and effective water task forces in the Tri-State area is the Westchester County Drought Emergency Task Force. Initiated by former Westchester Country Club Superintendent Ted Horton, the task force was formed to defend the green industry’s water rights during a severe drought in 1985. “We wanted to lean on the ear of legislators who had the power to pro­ tect us from unreasonable water restrictions,” says Joe Alonzi, who eventually assumed Ted’s role on the task force as the mouthpiece for the golf course industry. The task force, which comprised golf course professionals, landscaping businesses, municipal officials, water companies, and corporations was a resounding success in making the green industry’s case heard—and in winning the favor of—county legislators. On a much smaller scale, the MetGCSA has an established Government Relations Committee, which has been working long and hard at building trusting relationships with the people who hold the pen governing both water and pesticide regulations. Currently working behind the scenes to keep golf courses in the equation when water use becomes limited are committee members Tom Leahy, Glen Dube, Tony Girardi, and Mike Maffei. But all the lobbying in the Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u s t 2 0 0 8 Prove your commitment to water and environ­ mental stewardship by voluntarily implementing water conservation practices and integrating them into your daily maintenance regime. world will do little good if golf course super­ intendents fail to do their part in demonstrat­ ing their environmental vigilance. Also important is that you seize every opportunity to communicate one-on-one with policymakers to not only express your concerns, but also demonstrate your profes­ sionalism and responsibility as a steward of the environment. NYSTAsTurfgrass Advo­ cacy Day, held annually in February, is a per­ fect opportunity for New York-based su­ perintendents to meet face-to-face with legislators. Metropolis Country Club Superintendent Tony Grasso strongly advocates making your presence known among policymakers. “People who aren’t in the golf industry are making decisions for us without knowing anything about how we do our jobs,” he says. “We need to be involved so that doesn’t hap­ pen. If water restrictions are put in place, we want to be given our allotment and we want to decide where and when to use the water. For that to happen we have to be involved.” Be Your Own Best Advocate No matter how conscientious you are about conserving water on your course, golf courses are likely targets for criticism—par­ ticularly during periods of drought when neighbors are being cautioned to restrict water use and they see sprinklers continuing to fling water across your course. If enough of these neighbors—and con­ cerned environmentalists—complain, legisla­ tors can’t help but listen. It’s part of their job. And if their voice is louder and clearer than yours, it could kill your chances of negotiat­ ing a fair deal as water regulations— or any other political mandates, for that matter—are implemented. Your most effective recourse: Plain and simple communication. Identify the most critical—and influential—members of your community, and solicit the help of your gen­ eral manager/owner and golfing members to develop a strategy for addressing their nega­ tive perceptions. “Communication is important at my course,” says Centennial Golf Course Super­ intendent Glen Dube. “My owner has good relationships with local government and peo­ ple in the community, so when water issues come up, we’re able to defuse any problems.” Keep in mind, the most effective commu­ nications efforts are proactive. They happen before the complaints begin to roll in. Circumvent any negative perceptions by establishing ongoing, friendly communica­ tions that keep concerned community mem­ bers informed about your water and en­ vironmental conservation efforts. Ardsley Superintendent Matt DuTremble recognizes the importance of keeping his “environmentally biased” neighbors up to speed on maintenance practices. “It’s impor­ tant for my club to stay in close touch and keep our neighbors happy,” he says, adding, “We also have a legal committee at the club to address political issues.” There may also be a marketing or public relations person among your club’s ranks who could guide you in putting together the appropriate activities and communica­ tions to elevate both your image, and the image of golf courses in general, as advocates of the environment. And here’s a little secret, some marketing companies do probono work, so it will cost your club little if anything. You just have to ask. What’s in Store? No one knows for sure what the future holds, but we do know there’s no better time than the present to reevaluate the water management and cultural practices on your golf course with the goal being to demon­ strate responsible water use while providing quality playing conditions. As golfers and golf course managers, we owe it to the game to be good stewards of the environment and to educate those out­ side the industry about the importance and benefits of golf and golf turf. Then, the public and policymakers may place our industry a little higher on the lad­ der of importance, particularly when mak­ ing those tough decisions on water— or pesticide— use. Kathy Conard has worked in the Green Industry for more than 20 years. Her experience spans root zone, soil, and water management in the turf and ornamental industries. Conard also heads up the Water Impact Alliance, an organization that helps turf and ornamental professionals effectively communicate with local regulators and people in their community about water, environmental stewardship, and optimizing efficient use of water resources. Kelly Durfee Cardoza has worked in the envi­ ronmental industry for more than 20 years. Her experience includes permitting and regulatory compliancefor new and existing golf courses and water supply development for irrigation and potable uses. As owner of Avalon Consulting, Cardoza represents numerous golf courses and other water-dependent industries with compliance and regulatory issues. Don’t Wait Till the Well Runs Dry SUNY-Delhi Takes Proactive Approach to Water Conservation respite the amazing ability of turfgrass to use water efficiently, concerns about con­ servation are challenging golf courses to re­ duce water use and become less reliant on potable irrigation sources. Though these types of conservation efforts have long been prevalent among our drought-stricken friends in the South and West, there are few—if any— examples of these more drastic conservation measures in our area ... but that’s about to change. SUNY-Delhi has offered its golf course, The College Golf Course at Delhi, as a test­ ing ground for conservation efforts in the Northeast. It will be making the bold switch from river water to treated effluent to irrigate its golf course, and with funding from the MetGCSA and numerous other chapters and turf industry organizations, Delhi researchers are also beginning work to determine Best Management Practices for irrigating turf using new irrigation technology. What follows is the skinny on Delhi’s impressive initiatives to find a reasonable ap­ proach for conserving water... should we be required to conform to significant water reductions in the future. Effluent Water: Dirty Never Sounded So Good Working with New York State’s Center of Excellence in Watershed Applications and Technology, The College Golf Course at Delhi will soon be running treated effluent through its irrigation pipes. Part of a larger initiative designed to enhance the economic development of Delaware County, this proj­ ect involves pumping 250,000 gallons of wastewater daily from the Village of Delhi Waste Water Treatment Plant for storage and use on the course. Currently operating at maximum capacity, the Delhi facility would then be free to accept additional effluent water from new business and industry, meet­ ing the area’s economic growth and business expansion needs. But using recycled water at The College Golf Course has benefits that extend beyond economic. Among them: • Water conservation: The Delhi course cur­ rently uses between 5 and 14 million gallons Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u st 2 0 0 8 The mosteffective way to conserve water on a long-term, sustainable basis is by writing a Best Management Practices program fo r water conservation on your . of water per year for irrigation, which it draws solely from the Little Delaware River. Using treated effluent rather than river water for irrigation would protect local aquifers, maintain adequate flows in the Little Delaware, and ultimately, alleviate DEC concerns. Fortunately, the Village of Delhi’s wastewater is treated so extensively at the plant that the effluent applied to the course will require little to no additional treatment. • Enhanced Water Quality: This initiative will significantly improve water quality within the Cannonsville Reservoir Basin by provid­ ing an additional infiltration process for effluent that would otherwise be discharged directly into the basin. Dense, well-managed turfgrass, after all, offers one of the best filtra­ tion systems available for polluted water. The thatch layer in turf traps and holds particulate pollutants in the water, allowing them to degrade naturally—before making their way into lakes, streams, and groundwater. • Reduced Phosphorus Load: Based on prelim­ inary design calculations, it’s anticipated that the phosphorus load to the west branch of the Delaware River from the wastewater treatment plant will be reduced from ap­ proximately 111 kg/year to 90 kg/year. In addition, effluent water use ... • Offers a potentially endless irrigation sup­ ply, even in drought • Is less expensive than potable water—even free in some areas, as long as you pay to pump it • Provides a gratis source of fertilizer, since nutrients remain in the water • Produces turf conditions similar to those produced with potable water • Demonstrates to club and community members your commitment to water and environmental conservation Dominic Morales, SUNY-Delhi’s Dean of Applied Sciences and Recreation and head of the university’s turf program, is quick to point out, however, that converting to efflu­ ent water is not without its challenges. For instance ... • Preparing your facility to accommodate effluent water can be time-consuming and costly. • Some effluent water has high pH and sodium levels that will need to be corrected with soil amendments and wetting agents, as well as aerification and topdressing. • Effluent water portals must be clearly marked to separate them from potable water sources. In addition, potable wells and din­ ing facilities must be a fixed distance from irrigation heads. • Soil and water chemistry must be closely monitored, particularly for carbonates, bicar­ bonates, and salt levels. • You may be forced to take a specific amount of water every day, even if you don’t need to use it. This means that you’ll have to have a holding pond or other option for storing effluent water on your course. Though converting to effluent water may seem like more trouble than it’s worth, when faced with increased water restrictions, high­ er water and energy costs, and increased political pressures by environmental groups, it just may grow in appeal as a smart choice for irrigating your course and providing healthy turf. Determining the BEST in Best Management Practices The most effective way to conserve water on a long-term, sustainable basis is by writing a Best Management Practices program for water conservation on your course. At Del­ hi, Dominic Morales is leading the charge in determining Best Management Practices tar­ geted at ensuring reduced water use not only on golf courses, but on athletic fields and home lawns as well. More specifically, he hopes to use his research in producing guidelines for irriga­ tion practices that: • Increase drought and disease tolerance of turfgrass plants by promoting deeper rooting and healthier turf • Reduce fertilizer and pesticide use by re­ ducing surface runoff and leaching of nutri­ ents from the root zone • Capitalize on data— e.g., évapotranspira­ tion (E/T) rates— generated from the uni­ versity’s weather station • Result in cost-savings through reduced water and pump use The Method Field trials will be conducted on The College Golf Courses 16th and 18th fairways and rough to ensure research data is representa­ tive of what turf managers experience in the field. • The fairway turf is a Colonial Bentgrass, fescue-blended mix, representative of golf course turf • The rough is a Perennial Ryegrass, Ken­ tucky Bluegrass, and fescue mix, represen­ tative of athletic fields and residential lawns. • There are a total of eight irrigation test zones/blocks— each measuring 70’ x 70’ and managed with a different irrigation technique. • Two zones will use soil moisture probes to turn irrigation on and off as needed. • Two zones will base irrigation needs on visual symptoms, which is the traditional approach. • The last four zones will be irrigated based on evapotranspiration (E/T) values, with half irrigated based on 100 percent of E /T and half irrigated based on 75 percent of E/T. • Rooting depths will be monitored and measured by taking random soil cores on a regular basis. • Visual appearance— turf vigor, density, disease, and color—will be rated to evaluate if new technologies in irrigation manage­ ment can produce water savings while con­ tinuing to promote healthy turf. The Goal Morales and his team hope to establish best management criteria for turfgrass irrigation as part of an ongoing effort to ensure turf­ grass managers remain on the cutting edge, continually striving to maintain their status as stewards of the environment. A two-year study, the researchers’ progress and findings will be reported in trade journals and at a SUNY-Delhi field day to be held tenta­ tively during the summer o f2009. For further information on either of Delhi’s water conservation initiatives, please feel to contact Dominic Morales at 607463-4413. Footnote: Delhi would like to recognize the many organizations that have made both projects possible with theirfunding support. Supporting the effluent project to date are the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, United States Department of Energy, and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. In addition to the MetGCSA, the Best Management Practices project has receivedfund­ ing from the New York State Turfgrass Association, Finger Lakes GCSA, Adirondack GCSA, Central New York GCSA, the Sullivan County Challenge Golf Tournament, Rainbird Corporation, and the Toro Company. Government Relations Update Give Your Maintenance Facility a ‘Clean Sweep’ by Tom Leahy, Co-chairman, Government Relations Committee ooking to get rid of un­ wanted or unusable chemi­ cals you’ve been stockpiling in your maintenance facility? Here’s the perfect opportunity: the fall CleanSweepNY collection. Targeting New York’s Westchester, Rock­ land, Putnam, Orange, Dutchess, Ulster, and Sullivan counties, CleanSweepNY is an en­ vironmental benefit project administered by the NYS DEC. The program provides envi­ ronmentally safe, economical collection and disposal of unwanted or unusable pesticides, as well as school chemicals, elemental mer­ cury, and mercury-containing devices. CleanSweepNY also collects and recycles triple-rinsed HDPE plastic containers from agricultural and certain nonagricultural entities. The Particulars You can dispose of up to 100 pounds of unwanted pesticides free of charge. A nomi­ nal fee is charged for each pound of pesti­ cides exceeding the 100. Collection will oc­ cur during the week of November 3. Watch for collection site postings by logging on to www. cleansweepny. org. The only requirement is that you preregis­ ter to participate in CleanSweepNY. Hold- ¿ft*»9*. OS. Envi B',V>name”u ^ ty A w K4 m ers of unlabeled or unknown products must register by October 6, all others by October 20. To receive a registration packet and information call 877-793-3769 or email to info@cleansweepny. org. This is an excellent opportunity to help manage unwanted pesticides and chemicals in the State, not to mention bring your stor­ age facility into compliance. We recom­ mend that MetGCSA members outside the New York area also check their facilities to ensure that products stored are registered for use in their state. Tom Leahy, superintendent at Sleepy Hollow Country Club in Briarcliff Manor, NY, is co­ chair of the MetGCSA Government Relations Committee. K ny (410) 799-1079 n Qwtp, Inc. www.McDonaldGolfInc.com Offering an integrated approach to g o lf course design and construction. (410) 799-7740 G OLF» CO URSE» B U I L D E R S Tee to Green fu ly /A u g u s t 2 0 0 8 Scorecard Mt. Kisco Takes Home Trophy Behind the Scenes at the Two-Ball by Ken Benoit, CGCS by Larry Pakkala, CGCS his years Invitational was pretty special for a couple of reasons. First, it was held at what is considered to be one of the premier clubs in the Met area. And second, it marked the last time one of our legendary members would serve as host superintendent for a MetGCSA event. As you know, Bob Alonzi is stepping down from his role as superintendent—a role he’s assumed at clubs throughout the Met area for the past 42 years. Bobs son Rob has been chosen as his successor, and the two have shared the position this year. Special thanks to Fenway for hosting such a great event. From the attentive staff and superb food to the picture-perfect course conditions and even the weather, I couldn’t imagine a better day. As for the results, Mt. Kisco edged out last years winning team from North Jersey Country Club by 2 strokes to take home the trophy this year. Wykagyl snuck past Pelham/ Split Rock to win the top gross prize. Here’s a look at the full lineup of winners. he 2008 Met Two-Ball Cham­ pionship has been moving along nicely. Many thanks to everyone for completing the Sweet 16 and Elite 8 matches in a timely manner—and with no coin tossing. There were some really tight matches in both flights. Here are some of the behindthe-scenes stories that our contestants were kind enough to pass along. For a full account of all the winners, round by round, please log on to our website, www.metgcsa.org. You’ll find the results under Met Events, Two-Ball Championship Brackets. Net Team W inners 127 Mt. Kisco Country Club 129 North Jersey Country Club G ross Team W inners 139 Wykagyl Country Club 141 Pelham/Split Rock Golf Club Ind ivid u al Low Pro 68 Ben Hoffhine, Wykagyl Country Club Closest to the Pin (On Hole #17) Club Official, Seth Blumenfeld, Brae Burn CC Club Official, Rob Babkie, Redding CC Club Professional, Bobby Heins, Old Oaks CC Golf Course Superintendent Matt Ceplo, Rockland CC 5’7" First Flight Notables TopH alf Bob Lippman Jr./Brian Benedict defeated Bert Dickinson/Chip Lafferty 1 up at Wy­ kagyl Country Club. Lippman and Benedict were 3 up with 7 to play when Dickinson came alive and brought the match to 1 down on the 15th. Benedict knocked in an incred­ ible chip shot to clinch the match on 18. Scott Niven/Larry Pakkala handily beat George Corgan/Matt Severino in the first round but got shellacked by Lippman/ Benedict 7 & 6 at Quaker in the 2nd round. This may be one of their worst defeats in history! Lippman/Benedict will meet up with Tony Hooks/Charlie Siemers (a new entry this year) who have been moving along quite eas­ ily with a win over the always-tough Matt Ceplo/Jim Swiatlowski team and another new team of Dave Lippman/MattTopazio. Bottom H alf 4'6” Tim Garceau/Ernie Steinhofer defeated Mark Chant/Mike Benz 3 & 2 at Piping y 2" Rock. In a rain and severe thunderstorm delay after nine, the match resumed with Garceau and Steinhofer 2 up. While both 18" teams struggled after the long delay, Benz made net birdie on 14 to bring the match to Longest Drive (On Hole #18) within one. Then Garceau came alive with Club Official, Tim Smith, GlenArbor GC net birdie from the trees on 14 and birdie Club Professional, Wendy Modic, from the fairway bunker on 16 to clinch the Fenway GC match. Great match on a long day. Not a bad Golf Course Superintendent place to spend more than six hours of golf. Rick Schock, Aspetuck Valley CC Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u s t 2 0 0 8 With that win, they would have to play Glen Dube/Blake Halderman for the third straight year who, themselves, barely squeaked by Tony Grasso/ScottTretera in sudden death. Over the years, its always been a seesaw battle between the two teams, and it proved to be once again. Dube/Halderman were two down after 14 but, with a little help from their friends, climbed back to even on 18. Halderman made par, and both Garceau and Steinhofer missed 15 footers to con­ tinue the match. Jon Barlok/Kevin Seibel defeated Tom Ashfield/Andy Drohen 2 & 1 at Wee Burn. A great match ensued when the ’03 Mass Amateur champ and Ashfield, a low handicapper, went 3 up after 4, but Barlok and Seibel whittled the match back to even after 12. Going 1 down after 14, Barlok and Seibel went on to win 15, 16, and 17 to clinch the match. Not a blowout, but there were some tense moments from beginning to end. They moved on to play Joe Gardner/ Tom Weinert, but unfortunately, Seibel injured his hand playing softball the day before the match so Barlock had to go at it alone. Barlock was even after 17 but lost 1 up on 18. Gardner and Weinert survived to face Dube and Halderman in the semi’s. Second Flight Stories Top H alf Chris Alonzi/Mike Cook defeated Nick Lerner/Kevin Collins at Mt. Kisco Country Club on the 18th hole. Alonzi hit an eight-iron approach to the green, which settled on the fringe some 48 feet from the hole. Facing a downhill slider, Alonzi adeptly controlled the pace and direction of the putt, and it fell into the hole for birdie and a 1 up vie Collins, recently out of rehab, had trou controlling his nerves and was of ] help to his partner. Lerner left the course immediately after the match refusing to talk to reporters and leaving the future of the Lerner/Collins partnership up in the air. Collins was seen later at Mt. Kisco's Lexington Pub drinking heavily. (Yes, Kevin Collins penned this priceless story. I think we should appoint him the official sports writer for the Tee to Green!) Alonzi/Cook went on to face the Bob Nielsen/Bill Perlee team who defeated Eddie Binsse/Dan Cancelled 2 & 1 at Rye Golf Club. Veterans Binsse and Cancelled shot out of the box with precise driving and short game play to go 5 up after 7. Nielsen found his game to bring the match closer in the middle stretch as the elder statesman took a nap when Perlee finally came alive and got it up and down from the marsh on 17 to ice the match. Nielsen/Perlee had no letup against the Alonzi/Cook team as they stayed the course and won in a sudden death match on the 20th hole at Round Hill. Luckily Chris’s putter cooled down a bit after the 1st round! Scott Apgar/Brian Chapin defeated Mike Reeb/Greg Wojick 4 and 3 at Silver Spring Country Club. As Yogi would say, “It’s get­ ting late early,” and that’s the way this match went at the beautiful Silver Spring track. Wojick made a putt on the first hole to go 1 up, but “At Par”Apgar and Chappy won the next four holes and never looked back. Reeb and Wojick made putts for what they thought would be a win, only to be dumped on with Drain-O from the reigning Second Flight champs. Then Apgar and Chapin went on to win their second match against Bob and Joe Alonzi. According to Apgar, this was by far the greatest challenge CHAP ever faced. Apgar carried the team the first 7 holes as CHAP went up 4 holes after 7. However, the dynamic duo of Alonzis took holes 8, 9, and 10 to make it a match. It was Bubba Alonzi and his sore shoulder that kept Team Alonzi in the match. He shot a 90 with 22 strokes, but the ham-and-egg act of CHAP would prevail with Brett making a 25-foot putt orf 18 for the win to keep their streak of seven straight wins alive and well. They will now face Nielsen/Perlee in the semi’s who they beat 3 & 2 in last year’s final. Let’s see if this new team from 2007 can stay undefeated and make it eight straight. Bottom H a lf Not much excitement here (at least not reported) as Dennis Granahan/Jim Schell seem to be beating the competition fairly easily with a 5 & 4 and a 4 & 3 win this far. If they can get by the Tony Campanella/ Bill Middleton team who beat a very good veteran team of Dennis Flynn/Peter Rappoccio, it will be fun to see how they stack up against the sandbaggers in the top half. Yup. I . some good matches on some great golf courses. Covering the results and hear­ ing some of the stories have been a lot of fun. Stay tuned for the Final Four and the blowby-blows of the final match play. Here are the teams left standing going into the Finals: In the First Flight • • . 8) Brian Benedict/Bob Lippman Jr. The Seawane Club/Westchester Turf Supply vs. 4) Tony Hooks/Charlie Siemers Pelham/Split Rock G C /Leseo, Inc. 11) Glen Dube/Blake Halderman Centennial GC/Brae Burn CC 7) Joe Gardner/Tom Weinert Dellwood CC/Plant Food Company In the Second F lig h t . . . 1) Scott Apgar/Brian Chapin Metro Turf Specialists /Dellwood CC 13) Bob Nielsen/Bill Perlee Bedford Golf & Tennis/Apawamis Club 14) Tony Campanella/Bill Middleton Hampshire CC/Emerald Isle, Ltd. vs. 2) Dennis Granahan/Jim Schell Navesink CC/The Stanwich Club May the best teams win! Good luck! Larry Pakkala, CGCS, is sales representative with Plant Food Company Inc. Bayer Environmental Science Phoenix A i (3 A Y S R I \ V R / f ENVIRONMENTAL CARE David J. Sylvester Sales Representative Phone: 860 828-8905 Fax: 860 829-0761 david.sylvester@bayercropscience.com Mike Donahue Northeast Area Sales Manager 1512 River Blvd. Ext. Suffield, CT 06078 860-490-1929 Mike.Donahue@PhoenixEnvCare.com Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u st 2 0 0 8 / ___________ _____ Spotlight Double Your Pleasure: The Seawane Club’s Brian Benedict Hosts Dual Event by Eric O ’Neill Editor’s Note: This is our abbreviated spotlight format for superintendents who have been profiled within the past three years. At the article’s end, we explain how to access Brians last, full-length profile, should you want to read more. he Seawane Club will have a full house September 29 when it plays host to not only this year’s Met Championship and Met Area Team Championship Qualifier, but also NYSTA’s annual fundraising event, the Poa Annual Tournament. If you haven’t played this seaside venue in the past five or so years, brace yourself for a new-and-improved Seawane. From the day Brian Benedict signed on as the club’s super­ intendent in November 2000, Seawane has slowly but surely reinvented itself, recrafting a significant portion of the course, which, today, is characterized by fast, firm greens and lush native areas. About the Course... Design: The Seawane Club, located on the South Shore of Long Island in Hewlett Harbor, NY, is a 140-acre, 18-hole course built in 1927 by architect Devereux Emmet. Redesigned in 2001 by Stephen Kay, the course has undergone five years of renovation work to establish its current links-style design and native fescue appearance. As part of this sizable undertaking, all of the course’s bun­ kers were rebuilt and the acreage increased to 6.5 acres of sand. All new tees and new green surrounds with collection areas were also constructed. Words to the Wise: “Keep your ball out of the high grass, and don’t let the wind grab it. Also give yourself ample travel time. We’re probably one of the hardest clubs in the TriState area to find,” warns Brian. About our Host... Brian Benedict Education: Brian completed an associate’s in Turfgrass Management from UMass Amherst in 1995 and a bachelor’s in Management and Finance from L.I.U. - C.W. Post University in 1991. Training Ground: While studying turf at UMass, Brian interned summers at Piping Rock Club in Locust Valley, NY. With a few of the club’s members pulling strings on Brian’s behalf, he gained the fortunate oppor­ tunity to volunteer for the 1995 and 1996 Masters. After graduating from UMass in 1995, Brian accepted his one-and-only assistant’s position at Century Country Club in Pur­ chase, NY, which provided the final training ground for his step up to superintendent at Seawane. On a Personal Note: Anyone who knows Brian knows he enjoys the business, the camaraderie, and, of course, talking a little turf over a few cocktails. Family is Brian’s other passion. He and his wife, Mari, have been married four years and have two daughters: Gracie, 3, Kaitlyn, 1, and another baby girl on the way in September. For More on Brian: Please refer to our web­ site, www.metgcsa.org, to retrieve the archived July/August 2004 issue where Brian’s full profile last appeared. Eric O ’Neill, a member of the Tee to Green Editorial Committee, is superintendent at the Towers Country Club in Floral Park, NY. Ernie Steinhofer, CGCS - 914-760-6112 Turf Management Products Fertilizer Turfgrass Seed Organics Control Products JEFF HOUDE Tim Joyce M etro -516-369-6747 Robert Steinman, CGCS -914-588-0731 Dave Conrad - 914-490-3698 Turf Specialists Sales Representative ITODA Member, RISE Member Customers, Our Top Priority Danbury Office : Gary and Tom 203-748-4653 Tom Irwin, Inc. 13 A Street Burlington, MA 01803 Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u s t 2 0 0 8 Cell (203) 731*1776 Office (800) 582*5959 jeff@tomirwin.com Scott Apgar, President 914-879-9357 www.metroturfspecialists.com Bayer - Quali Pro - Aquatrols - Cleary - BASF - Lebanon - Emerald Isle - Egypt Farms Spotlight Rockland Rocks as Site of Upcoming Superintendent/Ureen Chairperson Tournament by Dennis Granahan pitch on the merits of tree removal in im­ proving turf conditions, I just had to explain that if they wanted to get rid of tree roots, they had to get rid of the trees!” (Some peo­ ple have all the luck!) Just a Little Rit of Lin k Superintendent M att Ceplo, CGCS, (front center) with his faithful dog and crew. ( J £ ^ ollowing the seemingly forgotJ r ten tradition of having the outgoing association president host the Superintendent/Green Chairperson Tourna­ ment, Matt Ceplo, the Met s soon-to-be past president, will host this annual event on October 21 at the Rockland Country Club, where he’s served as superintendent for the past 13 years. “This is a great tradition that seems to have gotten lost,” says Matt, who is more than pleased to resurrect it. “I think it’s a nice way for the outgoing president to give back to the association.” Now in my book, Matt has already done his fair share of “giving back”. .. starting with about 18 years of tireless service on the MetGCSA board of directors. Working his way up through the ranks, slowly but surely, Matt will tell you his service on the board has been nothing short of a labor of love. “I’ve enjoyed my time on the board, and I’m enjoying my term as the association’s presi­ dent,” he says, adding with a smile, “You know, I’m not any smarter now than I was before my presidency, but these days, when I talk, people actually listen.” Focused on Improvement Matt’s commitment to doing what’s best for the profession—and superintendents—is evi­ dent in his dedication to environmental stew­ ardship on his course. Among Matt’s proudest accomplishments is guiding Rockland in achieving the criteria necessary to become a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. “We vigorously subscribe to the Audubon approach to course management,” he ex­ plains. “Our members think our environ­ mental successes are terrific, and they en­ courage all of our efforts.” Rockland’s course has the signature of not one, but three architects, starting with Robert White, who was responsible for the 18-hole course’s initial design and construction in 1929. Thirty-six years later, in 1965, Alfred Tull and Robert Trent Jones added their per­ sonal touches. In Matt’s tenure, the course has undergone another series of enhancements. Beginning in 1995, Matt’s guided the club in rebuilding all of its bunkers, tee complexes, and three of its greens. At the same time, Matt oversaw numerous irrigation system improvements. “The work really never ends,” says Matt, adding to the club’s long list of improvements a variety of landscaping projects and the complete renovation of the clubhouse. Right now, Matt is in the midst of an extensive tree relocation and removal pro­ gram. “Unlike most tree removal projects, this one wasn’t a hard sell,” says Matt, noting that the project was approved because of members’ fear of injury from hitting tree roots. “Rather than having to give the typical But then some might say that Matt’s just a lucky kind of guy. After all, he had the unique and fortunate opportunity of grow­ ing up in the thick of golf. His parents owned a public, 18-hole golf course— the Afton Golf Club—near Binghamton, NY, which provided Matt with early training and experience. Following a course you might expect, Matt pursued formal industry training, re­ ceiving an Associate’s from SUNY-Delhi in Horticulture in 1979. His first training ground out of school was Ridgewood Country Club in New Jersey, where he was fortunate to land an assistant’s position under then superintendent and long-time industry veteran Ed Walsh. With just four years’ experience under his belt, Matt lucked out again, moving into his first superintendent’s position at Westchester Hills Country Club. “It was a time in my career when my wife and I had no kids, so I could play golf until dark on most nights. O f course, I play nowhere near that much now,” says Matt who, at one time, sported a four handicap. Though still passionate about the game, Matt’s focus has shifted, over the years, to family. Married now for 23 years, Matt and his wife, Jasmine, have two daughters: Allison, who’s 20 and a Fashion major at F.I.T. in New York City, and Megan, who is 16 years old and a junior in high school. Be sure to grab your green chair and join fellow Met members at Rockland for a good round of golf and a final taste of fall. Matt’s word to the wise: “Hit it over the water on Number 8, and you’re in for a good day.” Dennis Granahan, a member of the Tee to Green Editorial Committee, is superintendent at Navesink Country Club in Middletown, NJ. Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u st 2 0 0 8 Don’t Miss These Upcoming Events! Be sure to mark your calendars with the fol­ lowing upcoming golf and social events. For further information, please contact the appropriate committee chairmen. For pro­ fessional events, contact either of our Tourn­ ament Committee co-chairs: Blake Halderman (914-946-1074) or Ken Benoit (914241-0700). Our Social & Welfare Commit­ tee co-chairs are Tom Leahy (914-941-8281) and Bob Nielsen (914-234-3779). Both are available to discuss any upcoming social events. Met Championship and Met Area Team Championship Qualifier PLUS Poa Annual Tournament Monday; September 29 The Seawane Club, Hewlitt Fiarbor, NY Host: Brian Benedict Superintendent/Green Chairperson Tournament Tuesday, October 21 Rockland Country Club, Sparkill, NY Host: Matt Ceplo, CGCS Annual Assistants Championship Monday, October 27 Trump National Golf Club Bedminster, NJ Hosts: Mike Brunelle, director of grounds Tyler Ortero, golf course superintendent Gregory Eisner, assistant superintendent Met Area Team Championship Monday, October 27 Winged Foot Golf Club/West Course Mamaroneck, NY Host: Matthew Burrows Annual Meeting November Date & Site OPEN MetGCSA Christmas Party Friday, December 5 Metropolis Country Club White Plains, NY Host:Tony Grasso Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u s t 2 0 0 8 Educational Events The 5th Annual Dr. Joseph Troll Turf Education Fundraiser Monday, September 29 Lyman Orchards Golf Club Middlefield, CT Superintendent Mark Pelky and Lyman Orchards Golf Club will be hosts to this years Joseph Troll Turf Classic on September 29. In its fifth year, the event is sponsored by the Alumni Turf Group (ATG) to raise funds for education and research at the University of Massachusetts. In addition to treating participants to a day of golf, the fundraising event will continue its tradition of recognizing an accomplished UMass grad. This years honoree will be George Thompson, CGCS, who was re­ cently recognized by the USGA for his dis­ tinguished contributions to golf through work with turfgrass. Retiring from The Country Club of North Carolina in 2000 after working as a golf course superintendent for 36+ years, George continues to influence the golf course superintendents of the future through his teaching and speaking activities throughout the country. Entry forms and additional information on this event and the ATG are available online at www.alumniturfgroup.com. Also feel free to contact ATG President Steve Curry at 413-329-4912. 5th Annual GCSANJ Crystal Conference Tuesday-Thursday, November 11-13 Crystal Springs Resort,Vernon, NJ Watch the website—www.GCSANJ.org— for further details as the event draws closer or contact Paul Dotti at 866-GCSANJ1 or edgepaul@hotmail.com. Empire State Green Industry Show (Formerly the NYSTA Turf and Grounds Exposition) Wednesday—Friday,January 7—9,2009 Rochester Riverside Convention Center Rochester, NY The 2009 Empire State Green Industry Show offers an excellent opportunity to network, obtain research updates, and visit the trade show, featuring hundreds of exhibitors. As always, key speakers representing all seg­ ments of the green industry will be featured. For further information, call the show office at 800-873-8873 or 518-783-1229 or visit the website at www.nysta.org. MetGCSA Winter Seminar Wednesday,January 14, 2009 Westchester Country Club, Rye, NY Plan now for our upcoming Winter Seminar. Here is the preliminary roster of speakers: • PatVittum of UMass will provide an update on her annual bluegrass weevil research • David Doherty, who is president and founder of the International Sports Turf Research Center (ISTRC) and recognized as one of the world s foremost authorities on the Physical Properties of golf greens, will share his expertise on soil testing. • College Professor Nancy Patata will discuss strategies and techniques for motivating your employees. • Mark Esoda, CGCS, from Atlanta Country Club, will talk about ways to generate positive awareness of golf s commitment to water and environmental stewardship among policy makers and other influential audiences who can have an impact on water, fertilizer, and pesticide regulations. For further information, call our Education Chairman, Glen Dube, at 845-279-8960. Member Slews Congratulations to Our 2008 Scholarship Recipients by Tony Girardi, CGCS, MetGCSA Vice President Five of the eight scholarship winners were able to attend the Education Meeting with their parents to accept their scholarship awards. Flanking Scholarship & Research Committee Chair Tony Girardi are (from left to right):Tim Garceau of The Tuxedo Club with his son Austin and wife, Mariane; Ernie Steinhofer o f Metro Turf Specialists with his son Tim; Siwanoy C C ’s Dave Mahoney with his daughter, Jessica, and wife, Catherine;Jennifer O ’Neill with son, Justin, and C C of D arien’s Tim O ’Neill; Michael Petruzzelli with parents Pamela and Dennis Petruzzelli of Putnam National G olf Club. t the August 6 Education Meeting noy Country Club, is a senior at Cortland held at Leewood Golf Club, the College enrolled in Communications Studies Scholarship & Research Com­ with a concentration in Public Relations and mittee had the pleasure of awarding scholar­ Advertising. ships to eight members’ sons and daughters. Justin O ’Neill, son of Jennifer and Tim Like every year, the judging was difficult. O ’Neill, superintendent of Country Club of Our Scholarship & Research Committee Darien, is in his sophomore year at Brown members worked long and hard to process University enrolled in the Pre-Med program. and evaluate the applications, which were all outstanding. As always, the winning candi­ Michael Petruzzelli, son of Pamela and dates were selected based on maturity, aca­ Dennis Petruzzelli, superintendent of Putnam demic history, ambition, extracurricular National Golf Club, is entering his freshman activities, and effort exhibited in completing year at the University of Hartford, majoring in Computer Science and Graphic Design. their application. Please join me in congratulating this year’s Timothy Steinhofer, son of Mary and scholarship recipients— and their proud Ernie Steinhofer of Metro Turf Specialists, is parents: in his sophomore year at New York State Richard Apgar, son of Scott and Jacqueline University at Oneonta, majoring in Environ­ Apgar of Metro Turf Specialists, is in his mental Science and Earth Science. sophomore year at Lynchburg College, In addition to congratulating our recipients, majoring in Athletic Training. I’d like to recognize those past boards who Todd Apgar, son of Scott and Jacqueline had the foresight to initiate our Scholarship Apgar of Metro Turf Specialists, is in his fresh­ Fund, which has grown over the years thanks man year at Lynchburg College, majoring in to our Annual Bill Caputi Scholarship Raffle, Business Administration. the 50/50s at our monthly meetings, and last Alison Ceplo, daughter ofjasmine and Matt but not least, a portion of our dues. Finally, a Ceplo, superintendent of Rockland Country special thank you needs to go out to the Club, has begun her junior year at The entire Scholarship Committee for all their fashion Institute ofTechnology in New York hard work reviewing and awarding each City. scholarship. Please remember to support our scholar­ Austin Garceau, son of Mariane and Tim ship raffle. It is one of the major income-gen­ Garceau, superintendent of The Tuxedo Club, is in his freshman year at University of erators for our Scholarship Fund. i/ ô , Albany enrolled in the Pre-Med program. Jessica Mahoney, daughter of Catherine and Dave Mahoney, superintendent of Siwa- New Members Please join us in welcoming the following new MetGCSA members: • Howie Gold, Class AF, Growth Products Corp.,White Plains, NY • Jeff Houde, Class AF, Tom Irwin, Inc., Higganum, CT Birth Congratulations to David Dudones and his wife, Dana, on the birth of their daugh­ ter, Avery Rae, on June 25. Well Wishes We’d like to send well wishes to: • Glenn Gallion of Wilfred MacDonald, Inc., who is battling colon cancer. (Glenn wants to urge anyone over 45 to have a colonoscopy. “It is painless,” he says,“and it may save your life.” • MarkGrifF, superintendent of Richmond County Country Club, who is recovering from an appendectomy. • George Pierpoint, a Class LA member (and our executive secretary Ineke’s hus­ band), who is recovering from back surgery. WESTWOOD Organic Rccycfog Tt*#w#t nm*f* nTo$* YOUR FIRST CHOICE FOR GRINDING! On Site Grinding/Screening Tree Wood, Stumps, Wood Chips, Brush, and W aste Removal Additional Services Available Excavation, Drainage, Stump Removal, Site W ork, Mobile Screening Bulk M aterial Available Mulch, Topsoil, and Compost Westwood Organic Recycling 1 1 6 0 Manaroneck venue W hite Plains, NY 1 0 6 0 5 9 1 4 -4 9 0 -1 6 9 4 Tony Girardi, CGCS, chairman of the Scholarship and Research Committee, is superintendent at Rockrimmon Country Club in Stamford, CT. Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u s t 2 0 0 8 Spotlight Trump National to Host the Met s Annual Assistants Championship by Scott Olson Our Trump National G olf Club hosts (left to right): Assistant Superintendent Greg Eisner and Superintendent Tyler Otero. he Met s Annual Assistants Cham­ pionship will be held October 27 at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, NJ. Director of Grounds Mike Brunelle, Golf Course Superintendent Tyler Otero, and Assistant Superintendent Greg Eisner are looking forward to welcoming MetGCSA assistants to a course that is at least as impressive as its namesake, none other than Donald Trump, himself Designed in 2003 by Tom Fazio, Trump National Bedminster sits on 500 acres of rolling hills deep in the horse country of Northern New Jersey and features large stands of trees and renovated farm and manor buildings. Donald Trump has transformed the former DeLorean Estate into one of the golf­ ing worlds most beautiful treasures. The course, itself, stretches to 7,560 yards in length, boasting several forced carries and demanding greens and surrounds. The golf course is ranked among Golfweek Magazine’s Americas Best Top 100 Modern Courses, and Golf Magazine’s Top 100 Courses in America. Trump National Bedminster has recently fin­ Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u st 2 0 0 8 ished its second of two 18-hole champi­ onship courses. Both the “Old” and “New” courses will be hosting both the Boys and Girls USGA Junior Amateur Champion­ ships in 2009. About OurAssitant Host Greg Eisner grew up in Maryland, north of Baltimore. It was right there in his home­ town of Jarrettsivlle, MD, that the turf bug bit him. After working summers during high school on the grounds crew at Mountain Branch, a nearby upscale public course, he decided to pursue a career in turf manage­ ment and attended Penn State University, earning a B.S. inTurfgrass Science. During his time at Penn State, Greg completed two internships at the high-profile Oakland Hills Country Club and Oakmont Country Club. Greg returned to Oakmont after graduat­ ing, working two-and-a-half years there as a second assistant—a job that prepared him well for his current position at Trump National. Now in his second season at Trump, Gregs been more than busy. “The club has recently finished building a second championship course designed by Tom Fazio’s nephew, Tommy Fazio,” he explains, adding, “We did most of the work in-house, while, at the same time, keeping the other course in top condition. This has made for some long days.” When Greg can take a break from the action, he enjoys playing golf, fishing, or hit­ ting the slopes for some snowboarding. Insight Into Our Super Host Tyler Otero grew up in Lewistown, PA. His interest in turf management began at a young age. “My brother-in-law was an assis­ tant superintendent, and I’d often tour the course with him,” says Tyler, who obviously liked what he saw. As soon as he decided on his career path, he joined the crew at Centre Hills Country Club in State College, PA, a job he returned to for two summers during high school and college. Like Greg, Tyler pursued a degree from Penn State University, graduating in 2006 with a B.S. in Turfgrass Science. While in school, Tyler didn’t let any grass grow under his feet. He high-tailed it out of Pennsylvania to the mountain state of Color­ ado, where he secured an internship at Country Club of The Rockies. “It gave me the opportunity to see what it was like to manage a golf course in an arid, high-mountain desert climate,” says Tyler. Tyler’s next move took him far beyond the States, to a resort course in New Zealand called Kauri Cliffs Golf Club. “In addition to providing a significant change of scenery and culture, the job,” says Tyler, “provided me with valuable insight into what it was like to work at a high-end resort.” After graduation in 2006, Tyler found his way to the Met, signing on with Trump National to help with the construction on the new golf course. Quickly proving his mettle, Tyler moved into the golf course superintendent position on the Old Course at the end of 2007, where he says he enjoys meeting the varied challenges of the job. “Every day is different, and then there’s the added benefit of being able to work out­ doors,” he says. According to Tyler, there are three keys to scoring well at Trump National. First, due to the length of the golf course, long, accurate tee shots are necessary. Next, remaining on the correct side of the fairway is vital to Glenn Gallion Sales Representative attacking the greens, and then last—but not least—Tyler emphasizes the importance of being aggressive. “Attack the pins,” he ad­ vises, “the large greens will compensate for inaccuracy.” Director of Grounds Mike Brunelle joined Trump National just over a year ago, in the Spring of 2007, bringing with him the knowledge and experience he gained from working at some of the finest operations in the country. Mike did two of his internships locally at Elmwood Country Club and Wykagyl Country Club before joining the team at Oakland Hills Country Club in Detroit, where he interned while completing a B.S. in Plant & Soil Sciences from UMass. After graduating in February of 2001, Mike jumped at the opportunity to help complete a grow-in at the Tom Faziodesigned Old Collier Golf Club in Naples, FL. After one year in Florida, Mike found his way back to the Met area, taking an assistant superintendent’s position at Quaker Ridge Golf Club. From there, he spent four seasons as Bob Nielsen’s assistant at Bedford Golf & Tennis Club before making the fortunate transition to Trump National. Mike’s first position was as golf course superintendent on the “Old Course,” working closely with the director of grounds. But soon after he arrived, the director of „& + ***. %o ci grounds left, and Mike was promoted into the position. Explaining his quick assent through the ranks, Mike says, “It was Mr.Trump, him­ self, who made the move possible. He told me he was happy with the team he had in place.” Mike, too, is very pleased with the team, speaking highly of both Tyler and Greg. “It’s a joy to work with them,” he says, adding, “They’re on their game every day of the week.” Only at Trump What’s it like working for one of America’s most infamous business magnates? “It’s de­ manding but exciting,” says Tyler, adding, “Every day brings new challenges, which keeps us all on our toes.” In addition to keeping close watch on the windsock by the helicopter landing pad, where Mr. Trump drops in from time to time to check on the operation, the maintenance staff is held to high standards: the “Trump Expectations.” But Mike,Tyler, and Greg are all grateful to Mr. Trump for providing the resources and support necessary to live up to those expectations, daily. Don’t miss this opportunity to join fellow assistants for what promises to be a memo­ rable golf event! Scott Olson, a Class C representative on the MetGCSA Board of Directors, is assistant superin­ tendent at Scarsdale Golf Club in Hartsdale, NY. U H a rrell’s f mm ProfessionalFertilizer Solutions Joe Stahl 860-663-8048 mobile: 203-209-6951 fax: 860-663-3564 Turf Sales Manager Wilfred MacDonald, Inc. (888) 831-0891 V. Mail (201)931-1730 Fax (201) 954-5878 Cell gg^wHfrcdmacdonald.com jstahl@harrells.com www.harrells.com Ext. 210 19 CentralBoulevard South Hackensack, NJ 07606 795 Route #148 Killingworth, CT 06419 Growing a Better ™ Tee to Green J u ly /A u g u st 2 0 0 8 Support Our Advertisers!!! Dennis DeSanctis Syngenta Professional Products Post Office Box 18300 Greensboro, NC 27419-8300 0 Syngenta n n e w h o ua n o W E S T C H E S T E R T R A C T O R , IN C . 60 INTERNATIONAL BLVD. BREWSTER, N.Y. 10509 845-278-7766 www.wtractor.com Tel 732-580-5514 Fax 609-587-1696 Email Dennis.DeSanctis@Syngenta.com wvwv.syngentaprofessionalproducts.com www.greencastonline.com www.greenpartners.com SPECIALISTS IN CONSTRUCTION AND GROUNDS MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT SALES • RENTALS • PARTS • SERVIC E -n Tim Marcoux 4 G o lf S a le s 111 L a fa y e tte A v e n u e N o rth W h ite P la in s, N Y 1 0603 IRRIGATIOW llc. William Bartels President P h o n e : 1 .8 0 0 .8 7 8 .T U R F ATLANTIC IRRIGATION SPECIALTIES IN C . F a x: 9 1 4 .9 4 9 .4 9 0 1 M o b ile : 9 1 4 .2 6 1 .3 9 4 3 T m a rc o u x @ a tla n tic irrig a tio n .c o m C o rp o rate O ffice w w w .a tla n ticirrig a tio n .co m 5 North Payne Street Eimsford, NY 10523 vAvw.tantoirrigation.com Residential * Commercial • Golf * Sales * Design Your aerification and drainage solution! The Liquid Solutions Company Professional Liquid Fertilizers Micronutrients & Natural Organics Serving the G reater M e tro N Y area • • • • Dryject Aeration Deep Tine Aeration Core Aeration FloWick Drainage Systems 37 O neonta Road • Carmel, N Y 105 12 Tom Weinert Howie Gold Nutrition Specialist • ( 9 14) 672-6029 Vice President, Sales Ph:9l 4-262-0111 Email: tom l8ski@ ptd.net Dick Neufeld Territory Manager Ph: 973-945-6318 Email: birdie2acel@ yahoo.com Larry Pakkala PLANT FOOD COMPANY, INC. Office (914) 347-5151 ext. 15 Fax (914) 347-6323 Cell (914) 447-8872 Dir. Connect 172*55071*52 Email: wbartels@tantoirrigation.com Territory Manager Ph: 203-505-3750 Email: lpakkala@ optonline.net 38 H ig h ts to w n -C ra n b u ry St. Rd. C ranbury, N I 08512 The Liquid Fertilizer Experts w w w .p la n tfo o d c o .c o m Cell: (917) 5 5 9 -4 4 2 5 hgold@ growthproducts. com Corporate Office: (800) 6 4 8 -7 6 2 6 www. growthproducts. com D & D T urfworks , I nc . 28 Moseman Ave Katonah, NY 10536 - GOLF COURSE CONSTRUCTION • DRAINAGE • FIELDSTONE WALLS • TURF RENOVATION • ATHLETIC FIELD MAINTENANCE D en n is Fly n n Phone: 914-962-1871 Fax 914-962-1871 DNDToriworks@optoniine.iiet MATROLS' Bringing W ater and Resource \ Saving Technologies To The Golf Industry for More Than 50 Years Steven Quality Turf Equipment Kevin P. Collins Northeast Territory Manager 2 0 3 -7 7 5 -5 7 5 7 Fax: 2 0 3 -7 7 5 -6 4 3 5 C e ll: 9 1 4 -2 1 3 -3 6 2 2 Parts: 8 6 6 -4 3 5 -1 3 8 0 GEORGE CORGAN REGIONAL SALES MANAGER gcorgan@stevenwillandlnc. com 37 Oneonta Road • Carmel, NY 10512 4 Production Drive Brookfield, CT 06804 845-225-1761 Tel 845-228-1728 Fax 609-841-2077 Mobile kevin.coHins@aquatrols.com 800 Central Street N. Smithfield, Ri 02896 Jacobsen ♦ Cushman ♦ Ryan ♦ Club Car ♦ Steiner 800/257-7797 www.aquatrols.com Soil Solutions LLC Aerification Professional David Griffin Cell 914.413.3173 7 Whittemore Place Rye Brook, NY 10573 (914) 393-0659/Fax: (914) 939-5010 Anthony Decicco & John Decicco golf course construction P.0. Box 719 Harrison, N .Y. 10528 Tel 914.576.7693 Fax 914.241.6986 david@dtegolf.com THE ROGER RULEWICH GROUP Jo h n D e e r e Golf Course Design & Construction David F le u r y PART N ER J im C a lla d io , CGCS Sales Representative 160 Purple Meadow Road, Bernardston, MA 01337 413.648.9303 Phone 413.648.0211 Fax 413.537.6967 Mobile Dave@rrulewich.com E-mail E/T Equipment Company, Inc. 425 South Riverside Avenue, Croton-On-Hudson, NY 10520 Phone:914-271-6126 Fax: 914-271-6163 turf products corporation Proud Supporters of Metropolitan GCSA Jon Barlok Pat Cragin Commercial Equipment Golf Irrigation (860) 729-2237 (860)874-2812 157 M o o d y Road • RO. Box 1200 • Enfield, CT 06083 Office: 860-763-3581 • Fax: 860-763-5550 Cell: 914-629-8667 www.etequipment.com jcalladio@etequipment.com airon Directory Patrons listed on this page are supporting our association. You are encouraged to support t h e m . O A.G. Enterprises © Dryject N.E. / Turf Pounders Rick Gordon Staff Uniforms 201-488-1276 / Fax:201-489-5830 Merrickl60@aol.com www.AGEnterprisesonline.com Kevin Collins / Steve Jordan “Your Aerification and Drainage Solution” 914-672-6029 / Fax: 845-228-1728 mccl0512@yahoo.com A1 Preston’s Kevin Driscoll Sod ~ Bentgrass, Fescues, Shortcut Blue Cell: 609-760-4099 Office: 856-769-9555 East Coast Sod & Seed Gary Shashinka Massey Ferguson Tractors ~Takeuchi Excavators 203-924-1747 © E /T Equipment Co., Inc. © Aquatrols Corp. o f America Kevin P. Collins “Innovative Products for Effective Resource Management” Cell: 609-841-2077 Fax: 845-228-1728 kevin.collins@aquatrols .com Argento & Sons, Inc. Louis Argento 1 Prospect Avenue White Plains, NY 10607 914-949-1152 louis@argentoandsons.com © Atlantic Irrigation Specialties, Inc. Ray Beaudry / Tim Marcoux 111 Lafayette Avenue N. White Plains, NY 10603 914-686-0008 Jim Calladio / Bruce A. Pye / Gerry Grant John Deere Turf Equipment 914-271-6126 www. etequipment.com © Metro Turf Specialists “America’s Premium Top-Dressings” 800-247-2326 / www.PARTAC.com BiU & Joe Carriere: 914-937-2136 © Plant Food Company, Inc. “The Liquid Fertilizer Experts” 800-562-1291 / www.plantfoodco.com Dick Neufeld: 973-945-6318 Larry Pakkala: 203-505-3750 TomWeinert: 914-262-0111 © © Howie Gold P.O.Box 1252 White Plains, NY 10602 914-428-1316 / Fax:914-428-2780 hgold@growthproducts.com John Bresnahan www.BetterTurf.com John.Bresnahan@basf.com O Bayer Environmental Science Dave Sylvester “Backed by Bayer” 860-841-3173 © Blue Ridge Peat Moss Gene Evans / Chuck Evans 133 Peat Moss Road White Haven, PA 18661 570-443-9596 © D & D Turfworks, Inc. Dennis Flynn “Work That You Can Be Proud O f” 914-962-1871 dndturfworks@optonline.net © Dar Par Sales Dom & John Richichi 914-946-1743 / Fax:914-946-0796 © Down To Earth Golf Course Construction, Inc. David Griffin P.O.Box 719 Harrison, NY 10528 914-576-7693 / Cell: 914-413-3173 © © The Roger Rulewich Group David Fleury / Marshall Victor Golf Course Design, Renovation, & Construction 800-465-3668 / Fax:413-648-0211 © The Terre Company o f New Jersey, Inc. Byron Johnson Seed, Pesticides, Nursery Stock, & Fertilizer 973-473-3393 Soil Solutions, LLC © Tom Irwin, Inc. JefFHoude 11A Street, Burlington, MA 01803 203-731-1776 jeff@tomirwin.com Aerification Professionals Anthony Decicco / John Decicco 7 Whittemore Place Ryebrook, NY 10573 914-393-0659 / Fax:914-939-5010 © Turf Products Corp. / TORO Pat Cragin, Irrigation: 860-874-2812 Jon Barlok, Equipment: 860-729-2237 Muin Office: 800-243-4355 Steven Willand, Inc. © Westchester Tractor, Inc. Quality Turf Equipment George W. Corgan 4 Production Drive Brookfield, C T 06804 203-775-5757 / Cell: 914-213-3622 IraWickes / Arborists JohnW.Wickes “Tree & Lawn Care Since 1929” 11 McNamara Road Spring Valley, NY 10977 845-354-3400 / Fax:845-354-3475 j ohn@irawickes .com © The Care o f Trees Mike Cook, NY: 914-345-8733 Ken Clear, CT: 203-847-1855 www. thecareoftrees .com Pond Connection Jeff J. Stahl www.thepondconnection.com 203-858-4136 © Growth Products, LTD Joe Stahl “Growing a Better World” 203-209-6951 jstahl@harrells.com / www.harrells.com Phoenix Environmental Care Mike Donahue: 860-490-1929 mike.donahue@phoenixenvcare.com Rick Grant: 317-501-2395 rick.grant@phoenixenvcare.com Harrell’s © BASF John Callahan Complete Distributor o f Golf Course Accessories & Turf Maintenance Supplies 800-861-6256 / Fax:860-673-8443 © Partac Golf Course Top-Dressing © Greenacres Company Dave Pijnenburg 75 Codfish Hill Road Bethel, C T 06801 203-748-0558 / Cell: 203-948-5103 greenacrescompany@comcast.net © The Cardinals, Inc. Scott / Ernie / R ob / Gary “Customers, O ur TO P Priority” 203-748-4653 / Fax:203-743-0458 www.metroturfspecialists.com © Storr Tractor Company ITT / Flowtronex Rick Krok / Gary Lynott Pump Sales & Service 908-413-3403 / 516-523-2012 Irra-Tech, Inc. Joseph D. Kennedy 18 Merritt Street Port Chester, NY 10573 914-937-7273 John Apple / George Risley / Jeff Underhill 60 International Boulevard Brewster, NY 10509 845-298-7766 www.wtractor.com © Surfside Wetting Agents Liquid ~ Granular ~ Pellets ZAP! Defoamer R obert Oechsle: 800-401-0411 © © Greg Moran Products ~ Knowledge ~ Service 845-849-8640 Office & Fax: 845-338-3650 Syngenta Plant Protectants Dennis DeSanctis Jr. 732-580-5514 / Fax:609-918-1696 Dennis.DeSanctis@syngenta.com © Matrix Turf Solutions, LLC Wilfred MacDonald, Inc. Glenn Gallion 19 Central Boulevard S. Hackensack, NJ 07606 888-831-0891 / Fax:201-931-1730 Leggette, Brashears & Graham, Inc. Rob Good Professional Ground-Water and Environmental Engineering Services 860-678-0404 / 203-929-8555 F ax :860-678-0606 rgood@lbgct.com Westchester Turf Supply, Inc. Bob & Dave Lippman “Serving the Fine Turf Profession” 845-621-5067 / Fax: 845-621-7180 westturf@comcast.net Tanto Irrigation William Bartels 914-347-5151 / 914-347-6323 wbartels@tantoirrigation.com Q Denotes M e tG C S A member