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Cover: Centennial
G o lf Club

n this Issue
B ob N ielsen A ssum es R ein s as M etGCSA’s ............................................. 2
N ew President

Departments
U p c o m in g E v e n t s ............................................................................................... 4
C hapter N e w s ........................................................................................................ 5
M em ber N e w s ..................................................................................................... 10
Spotlight .............................................................................................................. 12

Current Periodicals
DO NOT C IR C U LA TE

SERIALS
m

2 3 2011

MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
LIBRARIES

Winter Seminnr High Points

Nix of
Information
hottest, driest summers on record to one of
the coldest, snowiest winters that weve had
in quite some time. The big question on the
minds of anyone who manages Poa/bentgrass greens is: Where will the ice belt be?
While we know, for sure, it’s going to be
there, were less certain about how to handle
it. In fact, deciding if and when to remove
the snow and ice from our greens has
been a topic of discussion since the Winter
Seminar.
Although clearing snow too early from
greens can be an open dinner invitation to
geese, we know that the record amount of
snowfall could result in significant ice accu­
mulations if we get that mid-winter thaw. I
made the decision to plow the snow from
my greens. But it’s a tough call. Here’s hop­
ing whatever course of action you choose, it
serves you—and your greens—well!

Speaking of winter, our Winter Seminar was
a huge success again this year, drawing close
to 300— a full house. Kudos to Rob Alonzi
and the Education Committee for putting
together such a crowd-drawing program,
and a special thank you to Joe Alonzi and the
Westchester County Club staff for the great Bob Nielsen, C G C S
food and ambience. It really made for a spe­ MetGCSA President
cial day.
The morning speakers presented the latest President Greg Chorvas delivered a very gra­
information on foliar fertilizers, fairy ring cious acceptance speech. NYSTA has been
control, and aquatic weed management. supporting the turfgrass industry for more
Adam Moeller was a great last-minute than 60 years, and the MetGCSA and its
stand-in for Dr. Hart from Rutgers, and Dave members have been highly involved with the
Oatis reviewed some of the important les­ organization, both as program attendees and
active participants. Mel Lucas, John Musto,
sons learned from 2010.
I was happy to have the opportunity to and Mike Maffei are all MetGCSA members
introduce the MetGCSA’s new executive who have served as NYSTA presidents.
The Tri-State Turf Research Foundation is
director to the audience at the Winter Semi­
nar. Ed Brockner was selected from a pool another worthy organization our association
of very talented candidates for the posi­ and its members have been closely aligned
tion and officially began work with the with. John Carlone, Tri-State president and
MetGCSA on January 3. Ed joins us from the Met member, offered an informative presen­
First Tee of New York, where he will con­ tation on the Tri-State’s work, afterward
requesting donations to support foundationtinue to serve as director of development.
Ed received a B.A. in history from Yale funded research at our universities. I cannot
University in 2001 and an M.S. in sports emphasize enough the importance of con­
administration from Florida State Univer­ tributing to the foundation’s work.
Funding for research has been either elim­
sity in 2002. He was also a consultant for the
Essex County Parks Department during its inated or severely curtailed by the GCSAA,
$7-million renovation of the county’s three the USGA, and many corporations. As a
result, it’s become extremely difficult for
public courses.
Ed is working closely with all of the com­ universities to get funding for their research.
mittee chairmen to learn how the associa­ And this is not just any research. Since its
tion operates, and we are bringing him inception in 1990, the Tri-State T urf Re­
up to speed on our government relations search Foundation has funded studies that
efforts. Ed is an accomplished writer, with target tu rf diseases and challenges pertinent
golf articles published in The Wall Street to golf courses in our area. It’s through the
Journal and numerous features on course Tri-State that we’ve gained solutions to some
design and construction appearing in the of the most devastating turfgrass ills, like
New Jersey State Golf Association magazine. summer patch and anthracnose to name just
We hope to exploit his editorial talents in a few. So please . . . don’t let that donation
our efforts to promote the MetGCSA and its request get lost on your desk!
members to the golfing public. Please join
me in welcoming Ed, and feel free to contact Possible Solution to Your Hollar Spot
him with your thoughts and ideas for
improving the MetGCSA. His contact infor­ Problems
mation is on our website.
One man who may have figured out a new
Matt Ceplo eloquently awarded the John way to attract funding for research is
Reid Lifetime Achievement Award to the
New York State Turfgrass Association, and continued on page 9
Tee to Green January /February 2011

m

Bob Nielsen
Assumes Reins as
MetGCSA’s New
President
by Kevin Collins

olf course superintendents
take many different paths in finding their
way into the profession, and Bob Nielsen’s
long and winding road to his current posi­
tion at Bedford Golf & Tennis Club is a great
example of this journey. “I didn’t have any
intention of getting into the golf business,
let alone becoming president of a profes­
sional association,” says Bob. However, on
November 10 at the MetGCSA Annual
Meeting, Bob assumed the reins as our asso­
ciation’s 29th president, the culmination of
10 years of service on the Met’s Board of
Directors.

The Making n! a Turfgrass Manager
Recounting how his early career goals
changed and eventually steered him toward
success in the turfgrass management indus­
try, Bob explains, “When I graduated from
Fox Lane High in ’7 7 ,1 enrolled in SUNY,
Oneonta, as a physics major. But realizing,
by year-end, that I had made the wrong
choice, I transferred to Westchester Com­
munity College to earn an associate’s degree
in tax accounting. Soon after, I went on to
continue my studies in accounting at Pace
University.” Working odd jobs to cover his
tuition, Bob found himself on the crew
at Bedford Golf & Tennis. It was at that
point that he began to reevaluate his career
intentions.
Working for then Superintendent Terry
Boles, a native of County Sligo in Ireland,
Bob found his work at the course both
enjoyable and rewarding. Boles’ thick Irish
brogue, while understandable to Bob and
others on the crew, was indecipherable to
many of Bedford’s members. Bob humor­
ously describes this linguistic divide as “two
peoples separated by a common language.”
For example, Bob remembers a time
when he, Terry, and Bedford’s green chair,
Bobby Duhon (the former NY Giant’s star
running back), had a conversation about re­
building the 9th green. “Terry spoke pas­
sionately for 20 minutes,” recalls Bob.“After
the meeting broke up, Mr. Duhon motioned
for me to follow him over to the clubhouse
for a chat. He needed some clarification,
because he didn’t understand a word Terry
had said,” Bob laughs.

“I ’d like to bring back the
camaraderie at meetings and have
fewer board meetings but more
productive ones— ”
In 1986, Bob became Terry’s assistant and
earned his certificate in turfgrass manage­
ment from the UMass W inter School that
same year. In 1991, Terry retired and Bob
assumed his job as superintendent, forever
abandoning the idea of becoming a full­
time accountant. “What clinched it for me,”
says Bob, “was working for a local tax
accountant one warm, sunny March day. I
knew, then, I wasn’t cut out for an office
job.”
During Bob’s tenure as Bedford’s super, he
has overseen an extensive renovation by
architect Ken Dye, transforming the club’s
classic course and enhancing its natural
beauty. The original Devereaux Emmet
layout dates all the way back to 1891, mak­
ing it one of the first courses in the Met sec­
tion. Bob notes, however, that while the
course—which measures under 6,500 yards
from the tips— is not a likely candidate for
major championships, it’s both challenging
and an enjoyable test for members and their
guests. “It’s a solid layout with small greens
that are well bunkered,” says Bob. “You
won’t lose a lot of golf balls, but you do have
to be accurate to score.”
This year will mark the 120th year of
operation for the club, and with Bob enter­
ing his 29th year at Bedford and 20th at the
helm as superintendent, he has established
himself as an integral part of the club’s
proud tradition.

Outside the Business
Though Bob seldom mixes business with
pleasure, he did meet his wife of seven
years, Carolyn, when he was out with a
colleague— his buddy Haik, who also hap­
pens to be the head chef at Bedford Golf &
Tennis. “Haik went over to Carolyn and her
friends and asked them to sit with us,” says
Bob. The rest is history.
“Carolyn is originally from South Salem,
NY, and had moved down South. She was
a teacher and director of a preschool in
Clarksdale, MS, and was also involved with
Habitat for Humanity. She had returned to
the area to get her master’s, and that’s when
I met her,” recounts Bob. “She never went
back to Mississippi.”
O ur “first lady” is one-of-a-kind. She
always has a smile on her face, and it takes

quite a bit to get her down. Carolyn also is
involved in artistic pursuits at their local
Bedford Community Theatre, which regu­
larly produces both dramas and musicals.
Having a little bit of both Bob and
Carolyn in them, their two sons—-John, 6,
and Sam, 3—are, as Bob describes them,
“happy from the minute they wake up till
they go to bed.”
Bob’s two older sons, Bobby, 31, and Matt,
27, are a tremendous source of pride for Bob.
Bobby, a Notre Dame graduate, just recently
changed careers. After working as an editor
of The Met Golfer, he recently opened a
restaurant in South Lake Tahoe called
MacDuff’s. A graduate of the University of
Colorado, Matt has stayed a little closer to
home and currently works as the develop­
ment manager for Windermere Estates in
Stamford, CT.
The Nielsen house is a great place to hang
out, and Bob and Carolyn’s hospitality is sec­
ond to none. Many Met committee meetings
have been held at Bob’s kitchen table over the
years, as well as a few parties.

Tin1Met Bonn] ¡mil Beyond
Bob’s new role as MetGCSA president coin­
cides with another exciting development:
The Met recently hired its first executive
director in more than two decades, Ed
Brockner, who shares his new role with his
position as director of development for The
First Tee.
Instrumental in the search and hire of an
executive director, Bob has high hopes for
the association under Ed’s direction. “I look
forward to Ed becoming the Met’s face of the
association in the same way the MetPGA and
MGA have recognized representatives,” says
Bob.
Working his way through the chairs of the
Met’s Board of Directors, Bob’s accumulated
years of valuable experience that will serve
him well as our president. “In the 10 years
I’ve been on the board,” says Bob,“I’ve served
as treasurer and vice president, and I’ve
chaired the Tournament, Social & Welfare,
Scholarship & Research, Bylaws, and Gov­
ernment Relations committees.”
But Bob’s experience and knowledge ex­
tend well beyond our association. He serves
as the New York representative to the

Chesapeake Bay Watershed Committee to
keep tabs on the EPAs activities there.
Gathering important knowledge and expe­
rience working in cooperation with govern­
ment and industry, Bob’s well equipped to
handle similar situations should they arise in
the Met area.
Bob is also a leader at the national level.
He’s served for the past five years as the
MetGCSA chapter delegate and is instru­
mental in selecting candidates for our
national association’s Board of Directors as a
member of the GCSAA Nominating Com­
mittee. Bob is also currently seeking ap­
pointment to the GCSAA Government
Relations Committee.
Bob has a clear vision of what he wants to
accomplish over the next two years. “I’d like
to bring back the camaraderie at meetings
and have fewer board meetings but more
productive ones,” says Bob. “I’d also like to
see the educational opportunities expanded
for our members. Our joint fall educational
seminar has been very successful, and the
Winter Seminar is an event not to be missed.
Now, I’d love to see a fall seminar for our
assistants, geared toward helping them deal
with issues and challenges that are pertinent
to their specific jobs.”
Still another of Bob’s goals is to establish
stronger relationships with the Westchester
County Board of Legislators and the State
Senate and Assembly. “I really want to get
together with the new chair of the En­
vironment Committee, Mike Kaplowitz, and
his entire committee to see what we can do
to bring the MetGCSA and the Westchester
County Board of Legislators closer together.
Everything else, we’ll deal with as it comes,”
Bob adds.
Through Bob’s experience and dedication
to the MetGCSA over the past 10 years—
and a strong, unified Board of Directors— he
is very excited for what lies ahead for the
association. “This board is pretty amazing.
They’re a group of dedicated and talented
individuals. Working together, I’m confident
that whatever we choose to take on, we can’t
help but be successful.”
Through government relations, educa­
tional opportunities, and great events, Bob’s
plan for the association all come back to one
important thing: making sure the MetGCSA
is an organization that continues to serve its
members and promote the profession in new
and exciting ways.
Bob, we wish you the best of luck in con­
tinuing your great service to our association!
Kerin Collins, a member of the Tee to Green
Editorial Committee, is Mid-Atlantic and
Xorthcast territory manager for Aquatrols Corp.
of America and the owner/president of Dryject
North east / TurfPounders.

Tee to Green Jan uary/February 2011

Don’t Miss These Upcoming Events!
Business Meeting PLUS
The Dave Mahoney Two-Ball
Championship Qualifier
Tuesday, April 26
Centennial GC, Carmel, NY
Host: Glen Dube, CGCS
Superintendent/Manager or Guest
Tournament
Tuesday, May 17
CC of New Canaan
Host: Mike Reeb, CGCS
MetGCSA Invitational Tournament
Thursday,June 9
Silver Spring CC, Ridgefield, CT
Host: Peter Rappoccio, CGCS
Summer Social
Tuesday,July 26
Fenway GC, Scarsdale, NY
Host: Rob Alonzi
Family Picnic
Date TBA
Bedford Memorial Park, Bedford, NY
Met Championship and Met Area
Team Championship Qualifier PLUS
The Poa Annual Tournament
Tuesday, September 6
Fresh Meadow CC, Scarsdale, NY
Host: Joe Gardner
Superintendent/Green Chairperson
Tournament
Date TBA
Mt. Kisco CC, Mt. Kisco, NY
Host: Greg Gutter
Annual Assistants Championship
Thursday, October 6
Redding CC, Redding, CT
Assistant Host: Steve Kubicki
Superintendent Host: Brett Chapin
Met Area Team Championship
Tuesday, October 25
Galloway National GC
Galloway, NJ
Host: Scott McBane

Tee to Green January /February 2011

Educational Events
14th Annual New England Regional
Turfgrass Conference & Show
Monday-Thursday, March 7-10, 2011
Rhode Island Convention Center
Providence, RI
As always, the 2011 annual conference and
shows educational sessions will bring you
cutting-edge turfgrass management tactics
and techniques, as well as a host of practical
management tools. The trade show kicks off
on the 8th with a USGA session, words of
wisdom from keynote speaker Mike
Eruzione, the former captain of the Olympic
Gold Medal Hockey Team, and a reception.
On the show floor, 400 exhibitor booths
will offer the opportunity to view the latest
in equipment, products, supplies, and services
available to the turf industry.
For further information, call the NERTF
show office at 401-841-0004, or visit their
website at www.nertf.org/show/.

• USGA Green Section Agronomist Adam
Moeller will speak about the 2010 weather
extremes that caused problems for many
courses.
• USGA Green Section Senior Agronomist
Jim Skorulski will explore the unique chal­
lenges and pressures that superintendents and
green committee members face in their jobs.
• Rutgers University’s Dr. Jim Murphy will
present research on putting green manage­
ment practices.
• Director of the USGA Green Section
Northeast Region David Oatis will discuss
the meaning of “firm and fast” playing con­
ditions, as well as the consequences of consis­
tently achieving them.
• Tri-State Turf Research Foundation Presi­
dent John Carlone will provide an update on
the foundations current and future work in
supporting turf-saving research.
For more information on the series or to
register, contact the MGA at 914-347-4653.

2011 Turfgrass Advocacy - NYSTA's
16th Annual Rutgers Turfgrass
Lobby Day
Research
Golf Classic
Wednesday, March 9
Monday,
May
2
The Sign of the Tree Restaurant
Fiddlers
Elbow
CC, Far Hills, NJ
Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY
Join
Dr.
Bruce
Clarke
and Dr. Bill Meyer for
Lobby Day offers industry professionals the
this
annual
fundraiser
and
a day of golf, edu­
opportunity to learn about current legisla­
cation,
and
fun.
Your
participation
in this
tion that could affect the turfgrass and green
industry. Attendees also have the opportu­ annual fundraiser helps continue turfgrass
nity to discuss issues, by appointment, with research and breeding programs at Rutgers
local elected officials and join a government University’s Center for Turfgrass Science.
For further information, call 973-812official for lunch. Be sure to join NYSTA in
6467 or log on to www.njturfgrass.org.
Albany; this is your chance to be heard!
For further information or to register,
contact Jill Cyr at 518-783-1229 or at UMass Turf Research Field Day
Wednesday,June 15 (8:30 a.m.— lp.m.)
jill@nysta.org.
UMass Joseph Troll T urf Research Center
South Deerfield, MA
MGA/USGA Green Chairman Education
The field day will focus on the wide range of
Series
research projects that university faculty, staff,
Tuesday, March 22
and graduate students currently have under­
Wheatley Hills Golf Club
way at the research center and at other loca­
East Williston, NY
This education series is designed to help tions. Among the studies you’ll see: the bio­
green chairmen, course officials, and super­ logy and integrated management of turf­
intendents make informed decisions on damaging insects, short- and long-term weed
issues common to many area golf courses. management, pesticide exposure, fertility and
Among the topics featured in this years drought management
For further information, contact the
UMass Extension T urf Program office at
508-892-0382 or by email at fieldday@
umassturf.org.
Í

Meet Your 2011 MetGCSA Board Members
From left to right: Class C Rep Doug Vanderlee
ofWestchester CC;Treasurer David Dudones of
North fersey CC; Rob A lonzi of Fenway GC;
Vice President Blake Halderman, CGCS, of Brae
Burn CC; Secretary Glen Dube, CGCS, of
Centennial GC; Sean Cain, CGCS, of
Sunningdale CC; Class A F Rep Mike Cook of
The Care of Trees;Jim Pavonetti ofFairview CC;
Brett Chapin of Redding CC; President Bob
Nielsen, CGCS, of Bedford G olf & Tennis; Paul
Gonzalez, CGCS, of The Whippoorwill Club;
Ken Benoit, CGCS, of GlenArbor GC; Past
President Tony Girardi, CGCS, of Rockrimmon
CC.

Your 2011 Committee Chairs at Your Service
Awards Committee
Tony Girardi, CGCS, Rockrimmon CC
tgirardil @verizon.net
914-764-5010 / Cell 203-904-8715
Bylaws Committee
Blake Halderman, CGCS, Brae Burn CC
bhalderman@braeburncc.org
914-946-1074 / Cell 914-469-1987
Club Relations Committee
Ken Benoit, CGCS, GlenArbor GC
kbenoit@glenarborclub. com
914-241-0700 / Cell 914-760-3575
Communications & Advertising
Committee
Jim Pavonetti, CGCS (Editorial)
Fairview CC
pavonettij@yahoo.com
203-531-8910 / Cell 203-223-5403
Paul Gonzalez, CGCS (Advertising)
Whippoorwill Club
pgntr@verizon.net
914-273-3755 / Cell 914-424-3603
Brett Chapin, CGCS (Advertising)
Redding CC
green@reddingcc.org
203-938-9640 / Cell 203-885-3109
Education Committee
Rob Alonzi, Fenway GC
ralonzijr@hotmail.com
914-472-1467 / Cell 914-484-0373

Government Relations Committee
Brett Chapin, CGCS (CT)
Redding CC
green@reddingcc.org
203-938-9640 / Cell 203-885-3109
Blake Halderman, CGCS (NY)
Brae Burn CC
bhalderman@braeburncc.org
914-946-1074 / Cell 914-469-1987
Bob Nielsen, CGCS (NY)
Bedford Golf & Tennis
rnbgtc@optonline.net
914-234-3779 / Cell 914-525-0604
Long-Range Planning & Steering
Committee
Tony Girardi, CGCS, Rockrimmon CC
tgirardil @ver izon.net
914-764-5010 / Cell 203-904-8715
Membership Committee
Sean Cain, CGCS
Sunningdale CC
scain@sunningdale.org
914-723-3238 / Cell 914-438-6309
Scholarship & Research Committee
Blake Halderman, CGCS
Brae Burn CC
bhalderman@braeburncc.org
914-946-1074 / Cell 914-469-1987

Tri-State Turf Research Committee
Matt Ceplo, CGCS, Rockland CC
groundskeeper@optonline.net
845-359-5346 / Cell 201-965-7641
Tony Girardi, CGCS, Rockrimmon CC
tgirardil@verizon.net
914-764-5010 / Cell 203-904-8715
Blake Halderman, CGCS
Brae Burn CC
bhalderman@braeburncc.org
914-946-1074 / Cell 914-469-1987
Social & Welfare Committee
Glen Dube, CGCS, Centennial GC
glendube@aol.com
845-279-8960 / Cell 845-803-1020
Special Events Committee
Rob Alonzi, Fenway GC
ralonzijr@hotmail.com
914-472-1467 / Cell 914-484-0373
Tournament Committee
Ken Benoit, CGCS, GlenArbor GC
kbenoit@glenarborclub.com
914-241-0700 / Cell 914-760-3575
Sean Cain, CGCS
Sunningdale CC
scain@sunningdale.org
914-723-3238 / Cell 914-438-6309
Website Committee
Paul Gonzalez, CGCS, Whippoorwill Club
pgntr@verizon.net
914-273-3755 / Cell 914-424-3603
Tee to Green January/February 2 0 t t

Chapter News

2011 Winter Seminar Chock-full of Turf-Saving Tips
by Paul Grabbe

he 2011 MetGCSA Winter Seminar was another in a long line of huge
^
successes, drawing 290-plus industry
professionals to the Westchester Country
Club for a day of education and camara­
derie. Even with heavy rains outside and
a growing concern about icy conditions
among attendees inside, spirits were not
dampened.
Education Chair Rob Alonzi and his
committee put together another great
lineup of presenters who provided new and
relevant information that will give us all a
leg up in handling tu rf challenges in the
future.
In addition to the presenters, a lobby full
of vendors offered a wealth of knowledge
and information about new and proven
products, as well as the wisdom of their
experience. We would like to express our
gratitude for our vendors’ continued support
at this event, as well as throughout the
growing season. You’ll find their names and
numbers listed on page 9.
We would also like to extend a sincere
thank you to host Superintendent Joe
Alonzi and the entire Westchester Country
Club staff for doing such a superb job—
once again—in making this a thoroughly
enjoyable experience for all who attended.
And now, the high points of the day’s pre­
sentations.

(idling the Host Out of Your Foliar
Fu tility Program
Dr. Michael Richardson from the Univer­
sity of Arkansas kicked things off with his
presentation on how to make the most of
your foliar fertility program. The informa­
tion was based on 10 to 12 years of study
and discussed why and how to use foliar fer­
tility, as well as what we can do to maxi­
mize its benefits.
Today, 60 to 70 percent of annual nutri­
tion is delivered through foliar applications.
Superintendents are drawn to this method
of fertilization because it’s proved to be an
easier, more accurate— and even environ­
mentally friendly— option for bringing
nutrients to the grass plant.

Tee to Green January /February 2011

Awards Committee
Chair M att Ceplo (left)
presents the John Reid
Lifetime Achievement
Award to NYSTA.
There to accept the
honor was NYSTA’s
executive director, Beth
Seme; director, Mike
Maffei; and president,
Greg Chorvas.

Foliar feeding is:
• Easy because any water-soluble fertilizer
can be used and tank mixed in conjunc­
tion with a fungicide program, eliminating
the need for separate fertility and fungi­
cide applications throughout the growing
season.
• More accurate than granular applications
because it offers the operator greater control
over the speed, swath, and flow rate of the
equipment being used, as well as the ability
to more clearly identify treated areas from
untreated areas.
• An environmentally friendly option
because the rapid uptake of nutrients
through foliar feeding results in a drasti­
cally reduced loss of nitrogen from vola­
tilization or leaching. Interestingly, despite
the fact that foliar feeding rates are very
low, the uptake is very rapid, with the bulk
of absorption occurring within the first one
to four hours after application.
Foliar fertilization is also attractive to
superintendents because:
• Many engineered foliar fertilizers con­
tain secondary benefits, such as bio-stimu­
lants and micronutrients.
• The lower rates associated with foliar
programs greatly reduce the risk of serious
damage to the tu rf in the event of opera­
tor error, equipment malfunction, or the
unforeseen development of unfavorable
weather conditions.

• The increased frequency of applications
offers the ability to address the needs of the
plant on a more timely basis, allowing for
more consistent plant growth throughout
the season and, ultimately, greater consis­
tency in playing conditions.
Although a solid foliar program has sig­
nificant benefits, Dr. Richardson offered a
few words to the wise.
He explained that once nutrients have
been absorbed into the plant, they can then
be moved either up through the xylem or
down through the phloem. The phloem,
however, is a system of living cells that
requires loading and unloading to move
nutrients down through the plant. It is for
this reason that some nutrients have very
limited mobility and, therefore, are available
only locally. Dr. Richardson mentioned cal­
cium as an example of a nutrient that, if
applied as a foliar application, would not
reach the roots of the plant.
Grass, he emphasized, is not designed to
be fed strictly through the foliage. In fact,
roots have a much greater capacity for ab­
sorption, as well as the ability to deliver less
mobile nutrients to areas of need through
the xylem.
So how can we use this information to
achieve the greatest benefit from a foliar fer­
tility program?
• Monitor the tu rf and make adjustments
based on need.

• Don’t try to put out too much at one time
as high rates will lead to reduced uptake
efficiency and possible damage.
• Know that grass doesn’t discriminate
between nitrogen sources, so don’t be afraid
to use less expensive fertilizers in order to
provide consistent, cost-effective results.

rinsing in mi ¡1 l ain llin« I mil ml
At the podium next was Penn State Uni­
versity’s Dr. Mike Fidanza, who gave us an
update on the biology and control of fairy
ring, noting that we have only just begun to
scratch the surface of this elusive pathogen.
What we do know is that fairy ring
appears in arcs or circular patterns and can
be classified as Type I, II, or III. Type I is
characterized by plant death; Type II pres­
ents as a dark ring of stimulated growth; and
Type III shows little or no stimulation with
the presence of mushrooms in a circular
pattern.
Fairy ring breaks down organic matter
and creates two distinct zones: a mycelium
mat, which causes the soil to become hydrophobic, and a zone of stimulated growth,
which results in a dark green border. It’s
important to note that fairy ring does not
infect the plant, but rather creates hydropho­
bic conditions that can result in plant death.
Dr. Fidanza also stated that wet and dry
cycles seem to trigger the formation of fairy
ring.
Prostar was the first product on the mar­
ket labeled for the control of fairy ring, but
there are many more products available
today, with Bayleton showing promise in
preventing the pathogen. In fact, Dr. Fidanza
suggested that two to three applications of
Bayleton in the spring could be used in the
fight against fairy ring.
His recommendation for ensuring a more
effective delivery of the fungicides:
• Be sure to apply the product directly on
the target area.
• Use a higher spray volume, or water the
product in to insure delivery to the thatch
and root surface.
Dr. Fidanza explained that while nutrients
can help mask the problem, they are not a
cure. The best way to fend off this disease is
through:
• Properly timed fungicide applications
• Good fertility
• Applying wetting agents to combat hy­
drophobic conditions
• Proper cultural practices to control thatch
and improve percolation and gas exchange
While proper water management and
thatch control can go a long way toward
limiting the impact of fairy ring, Dr.
Fidanza stressed that the only way to eradi­
cate the disease is through fumigation or
physical removal.

\i|im lirli,«i,l.iliiiii ¡mil \l«ii<‘
tlmiii«i,iiniil
After a brief break and visit to the vendor
booths, Dominic Meringolo, a senior envi­
ronmental engineer with Aquatic Control
Technology, Inc., spoke about tactics for
managing aquatic vegetation and algae in
ponds and lakes.
He first discussed some of the causes of
undesirable aquatic vegetation and algae.
Noting that while eutrophication—an accu­
mulation of nutrients that supports increased
plant growth and decay—is a natural
process, it can be accelerated when pollu­
tants find their way into a body of water,
causing harmful oxygen depletion and sedi­
ment buildup.
Meringolo went on to outline biological
properties and common pollutants found in
lakes and ponds, as well as native and inva­
sive plant species that can wreak havoc on
the overall health of an aquatic system.
When attempting to control aquatic veg­
etation, Meringolo stressed that it’s impor­
tant to start by assessing the bodies of water
and identifying clear objectives. Then, it’s
necessary to evaluate the various physical,
mechanical, chemical, and biological control
techniques to determine what will work
best in your situation.
• Physical removal is as simple as pulling
vegetation out by hand.
• Mechanical controls include harvesting,
hydroraking, and dredging
• Biological controls include herbaceous
insects, fish, and bio-additives.
• Chemical controls, which must be applied
by a certified aquatic applicator, should be
used with caution since some carry with
them long-lasting irrigation restrictions.
Meringolo also emphasized that, just as in
turf, it’s important to maintain overall good
health of an aquatic system through various
cultural practices. He mentioned proper
application of tu rf chemicals and the use of
buffer strips as an effective way to restrict
pollutants from entering aquatic environ­
ments and creating problems. Also, good aer­
ation and the use of some bio-additives have
been shown to work well in smaller sites.
They have the potential to fortify the overall
health of the system, thereby improving not
only aesthetics on the golf course, but also
the quality of the water and environment as
a whole.

Vuiirils liiiiiliniu
Seminar-goers then broke for the Awards
Luncheon, which was made all the more
special, this year, with two major announce­
ments. First, was the introduction of the
MetGCSA’s new executive director, Ed
Brockner. (See President’s Message, page 1,
for a bit about Ed.) Following that was Matt

Ceplo’s presentation of the John Reid
Lifetime Achievement Award.
This year marked a first for the Reid
Award as it was given not to an individual,
but rather to a very deserving organization,
the New York State Turfgrass Association.
Since its inception 60 years ago, NYSTA has
shown great dedication and commitment to
the turfgrass industry through its advocacy
and support.
We would like to extend a sincere thank
you and congratulations to the hardworking
individuals who make up this organization.

h i kin« Hi« lli«lil S pim s lor Your
h ill in« lim n s
Stepping in as a pinch hitter for Dr. Hart
from Rutgers was USGA Agronomist Adam
Moeller. Moeller gave an informative pres­
entation on grass species selection for put­
ting greens.
He started things off with a trip down
memory lane, highlighting the dominant
species that have been used for the past 30
years and noting how the characteristics of
these grasses have been improved to give us
the cultivars we have today.
He stated that, as time has progressed,
newer grasses were selected for high-shoot
density; lower mowing heights; better heat,
drought, and traffic tolerance; as well as
some disease resistance. Along with the
many benefits offered by these new bentgrass species is the need for more intensive
management. They are prolific thatch pro­
ducers that can easily become puffy, leaving
the grass susceptible to scalping and other
damage. Proper cultivation, topdressing, fer­
tility, and water management are critical for
healthy tu rf and good playing conditions.
When choosing a cultivar for your greens,
Moeller stresses the importance of doing
your homework because one size no longer
fits all. He recommends that you:
• Know the expectations of the golfers and
have a realistic idea of what the conditions
will be like for meeting or exceeding those
expectations.
• Look at research and field trials. NTEP
performs field trials all over the country. Be
sure to find results from sites that closely
mimic your local climate.
• Cultivars from the chosen sites can be
evaluated for characteristics such as spring
green-up, summer density, heat and drought
tolerance, and disease resistance.
• After selecting a few different cultivars
that might perform well for your situation,
use onsite testing to identify the best possi­
ble species before regrassing all of your
greens.
The final part of the presentation dealt
with creating proper growing conditions to
ensure the success of your greens. Moeller
Tee to Green January/February 2011

stressed that it is pointless to plant new-andimproved grass species without first address­
ing the growing environment. To ensure the
optimal growing environment, Moeller rec­
ommends that superintendents:
• First, make a critical assessment of the
subsurface of the green and decide if it can
be regrassed or if it should be completely
rebuilt. Moeller cautions against spending
the time and money putting a new surface
on old, heavy-clay greens. Any serious layer­
ing issues need to be addressed with aggres­
sive modification or a new mix altogether.
• Ensure adequate drainage is in place.
• Be sure there’s ample air circulation and
sunlight; remove trees, if necessary.
• Modify traffic patterns and mowing
practices to avoid overstressing particular
areas on and around the greens.
• Ensure proper fertility and water manage­
ment.
These new species of bentgrass have the
ability to provide a high-quality putting
surface with just-the-right growing envi­
ronment, but without that, the grass will be
pushed to its limits just to survive and will
be unable to perform at its full potential.

Lminis Li'iirm'il Ihi1llmil Mm
Finishing off the day’s events was USGA
Green Section Director of Agronomy Dave
Oatis. He reviewed the difficulties we faced
these past few seasons and offered lessons we
could—and should—learn from them.
The summer o f2009 brought mostly cool
temperatures with a lot of rain and then
threw a few curveballs with high heat strik­
ing when we were most vulnerable.
The summer of 2010 was the polar oppo­
site. The heat came early and remained con­
stant throughout the summer, and while
some areas were pelted with rain, others
received little, offering no relief for depleted
water sources and parched turf.
Oatis acknowleged that Poa annua faired

better in 2009, while bentgrass was stronger
in 2010. He cautioned, however, that regard­
less of what you have on your course, when
you subject your tu rf to intensive mainte­
nance practices in response to high golfer
expectations, you put your greens at higher
risk for damage—particularly if the weather
doesn’t cooperate. Weather, as we well know,
is always the catalyst that can make you look
like a hero or an amateur.
Oatis stressed that it is critical to make an
accurate assessment of the growing environ­
ment both above and below the ground.
Insufficient drainage, layering, thatch accu­
mulation, poor sunlight, and poor air circu­
lation all need to be addressed if the grass is
going to thrive.
Water management was another key issue
he touched on. Too much water is much
worse than too little, Oatis said, and it’s
important to make sure that hand-watering
and syringing practices are being done prop­
erly. He also recommended using moisture
sensors to determine the needs of the plant,
and he suggested that irrigation systems be
audited and modified, if necessary, to
improve coverage and efficiency.
Sometimes grass just dies, and sometimes
desperate times call for desperate measures.
When the going starts to get tough, Oatis
emphasized the importance of keeping close
tabs on what’s happening, developing a plan
of action, and implementing it incremen­
tally. If you get too aggressive and do too
much all at once, you can do more harm
than good, he cautioned.
He further emphasized understanding the
big picture, calculating the risk vs. reward,
and knowing what kind of season it is before
making any decisions. Sometimes, he noted,
doing nothing is the best course of action.
Does it look bad and play well? Ask yourself
this question before making big decisions
when there are too many strikes against you.
In closing, Oatis drew on his many years
of experience to offer some solid advice on

how we can better prepare ourselves to be
successful when managing our operations
becomes difficult and discouraging.
• Get back to basics, and focus on doing the
right things to improve plant health.
• Improve the growing environment by
modifying poor soils, adding drainage, and
removing trees to increase sunlight and air
circulation.
• Have a calendar where you can track
events, such as chemical applications, major
cultural practices, and important decision
dates.
• Provide peak conditioning of the course
when it’s required, but know when to back
off and allow the grass to rest and recover.
• Communicate early and often to keep the
membership informed of any potential
problems.
• Irrigate as precisely as possible.
• Stick to proven methods, and avoid being
the first to try something new on a large
scale.
• Communicate with your peers to share
ideas and knowledge.

ISi1Time, in*lieSqirai?
With a near-record crowd of superintend­
ents, assistants, and affiliate members, this
year’s Winter Seminar was a resounding suc­
cess. Special thanks, again, to the Education
Committee for their efforts in planning this
ever-popular event, to Westchester Country
Club for being such a gracious host, and to
our vendors for their continued participa­
tion and support.
All this is what makes our W inter Semi­
nar one of the most valuable educational
opportunities we have available to us all
year. Be sure not to miss this career-building
event in 2012.
Paul Grabbe, a member of the Tee to Green
Editorial Committee, is an assistant superintend­
ent at North Jersey Country Club in Wayne, Nj.

IR R IG ATIOIXI, L L C .
William Bartels
President

C o rp o ra te O ffice
5 North Payne Street
Etmsford, NY 10523
www.tantoirrigation.com

Office (914) 347-5151 ext.15
Fax (914) 347 -6 32 3
Cell (914) 4 4 7-8872
Dir. Connect 172*55071 *52
Email: wbartels@tantoirrigation.com

Tee to Green January /February 2 0 l i

Steven Renzetti, CGCS
4 0 Skyview Lane
N e w Rochelle. N Y 1 0 8 0 4

914-384-9227
srenzetti@ver izon. net
w ww .pinnacleturf.net

President’s Message continued from page 1

Special Thanks to Our 2011 Winter Seminar Exhibitors
We’d like to thank all the vendors who participated in this year’s Winter Seminar. As a
show of appreciation, were listing the exhibitors here, along with their areas of specialty
and contact information.
When the opportunity arises, we hope you’ll show these contractors and suppliers the
same support they’ve shown us during our Winter Seminar—and throughout the year.
A. G. Enterprises

Harrell's

The Care of Trees

Rick Gordon
Staff Uniforms
201-488-1276
merrickl60@aol.com

Scott Tretera
Golf Course Supplies
203-426-7055
stretera@harrells.com

Mike Cook
Entire Tree Care Company
914-345-TREE
mcook@thecareoftrees.com

Aquatrols Corp. of America

H a w k Sh aw Golf Course

The Terre Company of NJ, Inc.

Kevin Collins
Innovative Products for Effective
Resource Management
609-841-2077
kevin.collins@aquatrols.com

Construction

Byron Johnson
Golf Course Supplies
973-473-3393
sales@terrecompany.com

Adam Sherer
Golf Course Renovation Specialists
914-773-0900
hawkshawgolf@optonline.net

Turf Products Corporation

Patrick Cragin
Golf Course Equipment & Irrigation
800-305-2525
pcragin@turfproductscorp.com

Bayer Environmental Science

LaCorte Equipment

Dave Sylvester
Plant Protectants
860-841-3173
david.sylvester@bayercropscience.com

Gale Stenquist
John Deere Golf
631-891-2425
stenquistgd@aol.com

Blue Ridge Peat Farms

Jeff Dickson
Scott Apgar
Financial Advisors Working With
Golf Course Supplies
Golf Course Industry Professionals
203-748-GOLF
212-978-1141
scott.apgar@metroturfspecialists.com jefferson.dickson@wfadvisors.com

Wells Fargo Advisors

Gene Evans
Topdressing, Divot Mixes, & Bunker
Sand
570-443-9596
evansbarb@msn.com
ClubSafe, Inc.

Bonnie Karl
Medical Emergency Response Plans &
Employee Health & Safety Plans
877-936-3300
karl@clubsafe.com
DeLea Sod Farms

Mike Hollander
High-Quality Sod & Root Zone Mixes
for Golf Courses
631-484-1211
mhollander@deleasod.com
DryJect NE/TurfPounders

Steve Jordan
DryJect & Aeration Specialists
914-602-2857
kpcl0512@yahoo.com
Executive Turf Products

Ken Gentile
Golf Course Supplies
203-496-0891
executiveturf@aol.com
Growth Products

Howie Gold
Liquid Fertilizers
914-428-1316
hgold@growthproducts.com

M etro Turf Specialists

Phoenix Environmental Care

Westchester Turf Supply, Inc.

Mike Donahue
A Leader in Enhanced Alternate-brand
Plant Protectants
860-490-1929
mike.donahue@phoenixenvcare.com

Dave Lippman
Golf Course Supplies
845-621-5067
westturf@comcast.net

Plant Food Company, Inc.

Dick Neufeld
The Liquid Fertilizer Experts
800-562-1291
lynn@plantfoodco.com

Jim Amodio
Mulch, Leaf, & Tree Wood
Processing
914-949-3244
¡amodio@aol.com

W estw ood Organic Recycling

R. Argento& Sons

W ilfred MacDonald, Inc.

Al Argento
Lawn & Garden Equipment
914-949-1152
al@argentoandsons.com4

Glenn Gallion
Golf Course Equipment
888-831-0891
ggwilmac@aol.com

Steven Willand Inc.

William A. Kelly & Co.

George Corgan
A Jacobsen Golf & Turf Equipment
Dealer
203-775-5757
georgecorgan@charter.net

Charity Kelly
Construction of Golf Course
Maintenance Buildings
914-232-3191
charity@wakellyco.com

Storr Tractor Company

X G D System s

Rick Krok
Golf Course Equipment & Supplies
908-722-9830
rckrok@storrtractor.com

Mark Luckhardt
Golf Course Drainage Specializing
in Greens & Fairways
772-286-3419
admin@greensdrainage.com

Geunhwa Jung from the University of
Massachusetts. Jung is doing dollar spot
research by analyzing 50 dollar spot lesions
from one of your golf course fairways to
determine resistance of the dollar spot on
your course to the benzimidazole, DMI,
dicarboximide, and SDHI fungicide classes.
You will then receive a report that shows the
level of resistance to each fungicide class.
The cost to participate in the study is $500,
which can pay for itself rather quickly once
you determine the level of resistance to cer­
tain chemicals. The link to the research can
be found on the MetGCSA website.

A Productive Winter
With a record amount of snow on the
ground this winter, we’ve had ample oppor­
tunity to update the many forms most
superintendents are now expected to submit
every year. For me, there’s been the pesticide
reports and the water withdrawal reports I
file with the DEC, the water quality moni­
toring report I submit to the Wetlands
Commission for the Town of Bedford, and
the Westchester County aboveground tank
inspection forms I’m expected to update. I
think I may have finally finished the paper­
work for 2010, but it gets harder and harder
to complete all the required reports. Each
year, there seems to be one more form that
has to be filed.
Looking at the regulations they’re propos­
ing on Long Island, it’s only a matter of time
before we’ll have to track application rates
for fertilizers and submit monthly and an­
nual totals to one agency or another. Right
now, the Wetland Commission in Bedford
Village is also requesting weather data at the
time of application.
While I’m on the subject of regulations,
now’s as good a time as any to scrutinize all
aspects of your maintenance operation to be
sure they comply with state, town, and local
laws—as well as club requirements.
It’s always a good idea to prepare your
facility to withstand a surprise visit by gov­
ernment inspectors, as well as your mem­
bership. It sure is easier to do this work now
rather than during the heat of the summer.
Hopefully, everyone will get a chance to
get away with friends and family to enjoy a
little R & R —before the start of the season.
It certainly looks like spring is going to be a
little shorter this year!
Bob Nielsen, CGCS
President

Tee to Green January/February 2011

at The MetGCSA Christm as Party at The A paw am is Clpb

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M any Thanks to Our 2010 C hristm as Party Sponsors!
John Bresnahan o f BASF
Chemical Co.
John C allahan o f The Cardinals, Inc,
Mike Cook o f The Care o f Trees

Tee to Green January/February 2011

George Corgan o f Steven Willand, Inc.
John Ferry o f Turf Products Corp.
Gerald Fountain o f Agrium Advanced
Technologies
H owie Gold o f Growth Products
Byron Tohnson o f The Terre Company
o f NJ, Inc.

Larry Pakkala o f Plant Food Co., Inc
Buddy R izzio o f Turf Products
Corp/NJ
James Scoli o f Westwood Organic
Recycling

Member Slews

Scholarship Raffle s Prize Winners
( J

he Annual Bill Caputi Scholarship Raffle, held at the December 10
Met Christmas Party at The Apawamis
Club, raised an admirable sum for the Met’s
Scholarship Fund and awarded $4,500 in
cash prizes to 18 lucky ticket holders.
The raffle is the prime source of the schol­
arship awards we distribute to deserving Met
member dependents each year.
Many thanks to all who contributed
and also to those who sold tickets. Congrat­
ulations to our $1,000-grand-prize winner,
George Gorton, of Irrigation Services of
Connecticut.
The other prize winners were:

$100 Winners
Tim O ’Neill, Country Club of Darien
Sean Cain, Sunningdale Country Club
Bill Scanlon, member of North Jersey
Country Club
Les Kennedy, The Blind Brook Club
Bill Tucker, Edward Ehrbar Inc.
Bob Lippman, Westchester Turf Supply
Howie Gold, Growth Products
Peter Rappoccio, Silver Spring Country
Club
Bill Salinetti, National Golf Links of
America
Matt Burrows, Winged Foot Golf Club

$500 Winners
Jim Favreau, T urf Links
Brian Gallagher, Brae Burn Country Club
Jeff Scott, Tamarack Country Club
$250 Winners
George Corgan, Steven Willand
Mike Maffei, Back O ’Beyond
Matt Burrows, Winged Foot Golf Club
Fred Montgomery, Syngenta Professional
Products

\ T h a n k

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to

9 Social Sponsors
ur

2010 social

ofoUr valued

i M . a o W p p f 1“ “

:n%of Westchester
£ %
£ &

* * * '*

kartell’s LhC

, T u r f S U P P L Y lo t

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p e lh a m

New Members
Please join us in welcoming the follow­
ing new MetGCSA members:
• Jam es Am odio, Class AF, Westwood
Organic Recycling, White Plains, NY
• M atthew Bush, Class C, Pound
Ridge Golf Club, Pound Ridge, NY
• M atthew D errah, Class C, Tamarack
Country Club, Greenwich, CT
• T im Kaija, Class C, Scarsdale Golf
Club, Hartsdale, NY
• Jam ie Kapes, Class A, Woodway
Country Club, Darien, CT
• Stephen Kubicki, Class C, Redding
Country Club, Redding, CT
• Michael Lashlee, Class C, St.
Andrews Golf Club, Hastings-onHudson, NY
• Ryan M anion, Class AF, OGT USA,
Westport, CT
• Justin M iller, Class C, Wee Burn
Country Club, Darien, CT
• Dave Peterson, Class C, Brae Burn
Country Club, Purchase, NY
• A nthony Ross, Class C, GlenArbor
Golf Club, Bedford Hills, NY
• A dam Tom pkins, Class C, North
Jersey Country Club, Wayne, NJ
• W illiam Tucker, Class AF, Edward
Ehrbar Inc., Yonkers, NY
• Phillip Wohlers, Class C, Bedford
Golf & Tennis Club, Bedford, NY
Certification
Congratulations to Connecticut Club
Superintendent Mark Fuller for com­
pleting the renewal process for maintain­
ing his status as a Certified Golf Course
Superintendent (CGCS) with GCSAA.
Mark first achieved his certification in
1986.
Birth
Congratulations to Communitools Matt
Leverich and his wife, Leslie, on the
birth of their son, Bennett Matthew, born
on January 17.

,W? ^ t i t s T o u n i a » « ^ ^ dvertently

list of sponsors no

Tee to Green January/February 2011

Spotlight

Glen Dube Brings Two-Ball Qualifier
Back to Centennial
by Bill Perlee
he MetGCSA 2011 tournament
season kicks off on April 26 with
the Dave Mahoney Two-Ball Cham­
pionship Qualifier and Business Meeting at
Centennial Golf Club in Carmel, NY Glen
Dube is no stranger to hosting this event.
Back in 2007, just a season after accepting
the superintendent position at Centennial,
Glen welcomed two-ball qualifiers to the
course.
Qualifying that year for the event, him­
self, Glen and his able two-ball partner,
Blake Halderman, went on to reach the
finals but, in the end, lost to the tough duo
of Niven and Pakkala at Bedford Golf &
Tennis. Glen vows that the outcome, this
time, will be different.

The Course
The 350-acre golf course at Centennial
boasts three 9-hole layouts and one of the
best practice facilities anywhere. (Allowing a
little warm-up time on the day of competi­
tion will be amply rewarded.)
The 27-hole club’s Hudson River Valley
locale provides a scenic backdrop and setting
for the course, designed in 1996 by touring
pro Larry Nelson. Dramatic elevation
changes, beautiful vistas, and great condi­
tioning are the trademarks of Centennial.
Glen and his crew finished a complete
bunker renovation this past October and
look forward to showcasing their work in
April. Comprehensive, to say the least, the
project involved removing the sand from

Jim Santoro

each bunker, recontouring the bottoms,
installing new drainage, and adding new lin­
ers and sand. “With weather on our side, the
entire project took just shy of two months,
and it really changed the playability and aes­
thetics of the golf course,” says Glen, clearly
pleased with both the process and the out­
come.
So what’s the key to a successful game at
Centennial? “Be sure to keep the ball below
the hole,” advises Glen. “The greens are very
undulated, and downhill putts can get away
from you.”

Professionally Speaking

Glen Dube, C G C S

Committee and, now, the Social & Welfare
Committee. Glen’s also served as the associ­
ation’s secretary since 2006.

Family ami Fun

Family life has changed for Glen and his
Glen’s career path began in 1995 with a B.S. wife, Erica, since our visit to Centennial
in turfgrass management from the Unive­ in 2007. Their now 8-year-old daughter,
rsity of Rhode Island. While completing his Madison, became a big sister to her brother
degree, he interned at Muirfield Village in Jake, who’s now 4. Both kids were ex­
Dublin, OH; TPC at River Highlands in tremely excited about their visit to the
Cromwell, CT; and the Country Club of Magic Kingdom in Orlando after their
Darien in Darien, CT. He spent three in­ busy Dad concluded some business at the
structive years as an assistant superintendent annual trade show this winter.
Besides his passion for golf and family,
for Peter Rappoccio at Silver Spring
Country Club in Ridgefield, CT, before Glen tries to get as much fishing in as his
landing his first head job at Oak Hills Park busy schedule permits. He hopes to sneak
off to Florida again, this time with just
Golf Course in Norwalk, CT.
Besides delivering excellent playing con­ Erica to visit friends and perhaps wet a line
ditions and exhibiting a strong commitment before another season sneaks up on him.
Good luck Glen, and thanks for hosting
to the game, Glen gives back to his profes­
sion in a generous manner. He’s served on us this spring!
the MetGCSA Board of Directors since
2003, sitting on the Tournament, Com­ Bill Perlee, a member of the Tee to Green
munications, and Government Relations Editorial Committee, is superintendent at The
committees and chairing the Education Apawamis Club in Rye, NY.

Your Aerification Solution!

Territory Manager
Office
508-679-4797
Mobile
508-207-2094
Fax
925-817-5027
jim.santoro@valent.com

Valent U .S A Corporation
29 4 Archer Street
Fall River, MA 0 2 7 2 0

Serving the
G rea te r Metro N Y area

• Dryject Aeration
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(9 1 4 ) 6 7 2 -6 0 2 9
37 Oneonta Road • Carmel, N Y 10512

Tee to Green January/February 2011

Support Our Advertisers!!!

8 4 5 - 2 2 8 - 1 7 2 8 Fax
6 0 9 - 8 4 1 - 2 0 7 7 M o b ile
8 4 5 -2 2 5 -1 7 6 1 H o m e O ffice
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J&W GROWTH
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The Liquid Solutions Company
Liquid Fertilizers. Micronutrients & Natural Organics

Howie Gold
Nutrition Specialist
Cell: (917) 559-4425
Office: (800) 648-7626 / Fax: 914-428-2780
hgold@growthproducts. com
www.GrowthProducts.com

iron Directory
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You are encouraged to support them.
© A.G. Enterprises
Staff Uniforms
Rick Gordon
201-488-1276 / Fax:201-489-5830
merrickl 60@aol.com
www.AGEnterprisesonline.com
A1 Preston’s
Gary Shashinka
Massey Ferguson Tractors
Takeuchi Track Excavators
Shelton, CT
203-924-1747
O All Pro Horticulture
John Seib
721 Main Street
Farmingdale, NY 11735
631-789-6680
© Aquatrols Corp. o f America
Innovative Products for Effective
Resource Management
Kevin P. Collins
Cell: 609-841-2077
Fax: 845-228-1728
kevin.collins@aquatrols.com

£
t .

Argento & Sons, Inc.
Louis Argento
1 Prospect Avenue
White Plains, NY 10607
914-949-1152 / 914-948-0255
louis@argentoandsons.com

O Atlantic Irrigation Specialties,
Inc.
Ray Beaudry / Tim Marcoux
111 Lafayette Avenue
N. White Plains, NY 10603
914-686-0008
www.atlanticirrigation.com
O BASF
John Bresnahan
www.BetterTurf.com
John.Bresnahan@basf.com
O Bayer Environmental Science
Dave Sylvester
“Backed by Bayer”
860-841-3173
© Blue Ridge Peat Farms
Gene Evans / Chuck Evans
133 Peat Moss Road
White Haven, PA 18661
570-443-9596 / Fax: 570-443-9590
O D & D Turfworks, Inc.
“Quality Work, Personal Service”
Dennis Flynn
914-962-1871
dndturfworks@optonline.net

DeLea Sod Farms
Mike Hollander / Scott Geiser
Bentgrass, Fescues, Shortcut Blue, &
U.S. Silica Sand Dealer
631-368-8022
© Down To Earth Golf Course
Construction, Inc.
David Griffin / Chad LeMere
P.O.Box 719
Harrison, NY 10528
914-576-7693 / Fax:914-273-3571
david@dtegolf.com
© Dryject N.E. / TurfPounders
“Your Aerification Solution”
Kevin Collins / Steve Jordan /
Bob Lippman
914-672-6029 / Fax:845-228-1728
mcc 10512@yahoo. com
O Emerald Tree Care Company
“Caring for Your Precious Greens”
Charles Siemers / Cell: 914-874-6639
Office:914-725-0441 / Fax:914-7250672
charles@emeraldtreecare.com
© Growth Products, LTD
Howie Gold
P.O.Box 1252
White Plains, NY 10602
800-648-7626 / Fax:914-428-2780
hgold@growthproducts.com
© Harrell’s
“Grow a Better World”
Joe Stahl: 203-209-6951
Scott Tretera: 914-262-8638
jstahl@harrells.com / www.harrells.com
© Ira Wickes / Arborists
“Tree, Lawn, & Landscape Care
Since 1929”
John Wickes
11 McNamara Road
Spring Valley, NY 10977
845-354-3400 / Fax:845-354-3475
info@irawickes.com
O Irra-Tech, Inc.
Joseph D. Kennedy
18 Merritt Street
Port Chester, NY 10573
914-937-7273 / 914-937-8995
irratecinc@aol.com
O Leggette, Brashears & Graham, Inc.
Professional Ground-Water &
Environmental Engineering Services
Rob Good
860-678-0404 / Fax: 860-678-0606
rgood@lbgc t. com

© Matrix Turf Solutions, LLC
C
Gregory R. Moran
259 Lucas Avenue
Kingston, NY 12401
Office: 845-338-3650 / Cell: 845-849-8640
gmoran@matrixturf.com
C©
© Metro Turf Specialists
“Customers, Our TOP Priority”
203-748-4653 / Fax:203-743-0458
www.metroturfspecialists.com
Montco Products Corp.
SURFSIDE WETTING AGENTS
Liquid ~ Granular ~ Pellets ~ ZAP!
Defoamer
Robert Oechsle: 800-401-0411
© Pinnacle Turf, Inc.
Steven Renzetti
914-384-9227
www.PinnacleTurf.net
srenzetti@verizon.net

The Care o f Trees
Mike Cook, NY: 914-345-8733
Ken Clear, CT: 203-847-1855
www.thecareoftrees.com
The Terre Company o f
New Jersey, Inc.
Seed, Pesticides, Nursery Stock, &
Fertilizer
Byron Johnson
973-473-3393

O Turf Products LLC / TORO
Toro Irrigation & Equipment
Pat Cragin: 860-874-2812
Main Office: 800-243-4355
Valent Professional Products
“Products That Work, From People
Who Care”
Jim Santoro
www.valentpro.com

© Plant Food Company, Inc.
“The Liquid Fertilizer Experts”
Larry Pakkala, CGCS: 203-505-3750
Tom Weinert: 914-262-0111
Dick Neufeld: 973-945-6318

© Valley View Greenhouses
“The Biggest, The Freshest, The Best
in Plants”
Frank Amodio
914-533-2526
wgh@aol.com

© P laybooks for G o !
Golf Course Field Guides, Aerials,
Consulting, Career Development
Greg Wojick: 203-219-0254
Matt Leverich: 913-221-8052
goplaybooks.com / 203-210-5623

© Westchester Tractor, Inc.
John Apple
60 International Boulevard
Brewster, NY 10509
845-278-7766
www.wtractor.com

Soil Solutions, LLC
© Westchester Turf Supply, Inc.
Aerification Professionals
“Serving the MetGCSA for 34 Years”
Anthony Decicco / John Decicco
Bob Lippman: 914-447-6257
7 Whittemore Place, Ryebrook, NY 10573
Dave Lippman: 914-447-5192
914-393-0659 / Fax:914-939-5010
© Wilfred MacDonald, Inc.
Glenn Gallion
© Steven Willand, Inc.
George Corgan
19 Central Boulevard
4 Production Drive, Brookfield, CT 06804
S. Hackensack, NJ 07606
203-775-5757
888-831-0891 / Fax:201-931-1730
www.StevenWillandInc.com
William A. Kelly and Company
General Contractor ~ Maintenance
© Syngenta
Plant Protectants
Buildings
Eric Kelly / Ed Kelly
Dennis DeSanctis
732-580-5514
914-232-3191 / Fax:914-232-3812
Dennis.DeSanctis@syngenta.com
eric@wakellyco.com
O Tanto Irrigation
William Bartels
914-347-5151 / Fax:914-347-6323
wbartels@tantoirrigation.com