Board of Directors M e tG C S A est 1959 President Westchester Country Club Vice President KENNETH BENOIT JR., CGCS GlenArbor Golf Club Treasurer ROBERT B. ALONZI JR. Fenway Golf Club Secretary BRETT CHAPIN Redding Country Club Past President GLEN DUBE, CGCS Centennial Golf Club Directors MICHAEL BRUNELLE, CGCS Upper Montclair Country Club DAVID DUDONES BRIAN CHAPIN Paramount Country Club STEVEN LOUGHRAN Rock Ridge Country Club STEVEN McGLONE Siwanoy Country Club VINCENT PAVONETTI, CGCS Fairview Country Club Class “C” Rep DAVE PETERSON Brae Burn Country Club Class “AF” Rep SCOTT TRETERA Harrel’s LLC Executive Director MIKE McCALL, CGCS Executive Secretary SUSAN O ’DOWD Tee to Green Staff Editor JIM PAVONETTI 203-531-8910 Managing Editor PANDORA C. WOJICK Editorial Committee I TODD APGAR STEVEN McGLONE BOB NIELSEN MATT CEPLO SCOTT NIVEN KEVIN COLLINS ANDY DROHEN TOM REYES GREG WOJICK I CHIP LAFFERTY Designer TERRI E YOUNG Advertising Manager MIKE BRUNELLE, 973-777-6710 TEE TOGREEN is published bimonthly by the Metropolitan G olf Course Superintendents Association 49 Knollwood Road, Elmsford, NY 10523-2819 914-347-4653, FAX: 914-347-3437, METGCSA.ORG Copyright © 2 0 1 6 n this Issue Feature Cornell’s Dr. Frank Rossi Earns MetGCSA’s 2017 John Reid Lifetim e Achievem ent Award ................ Departments mm National News .....................................................................................................6 U pcom ing E ven ts...............................................................................................7 Chapter N ew s....................................................................................................... 8 Scorecard................................................................................................................9 R egional News ..................................................................................................10 M ember N ew s.....................................................................................................10 SERIALS JAN 18 2017 VERSITY TMVOH! «yoü' ;V H ui fS ff I » # , J 1 r TfianK 5 ^ Ill'll* r o r « « * ® *»" % d^ y the time this issue of Tee to Green finds you, the holiday season will have passed, and we will have rung in the New Year. Please accept my belated wish that you and your families had a joyful holi­ day season and that 2017 is a healthy and prosperous year for you and yours. : With the hardships of this past season behind us, our ponds full, and winter in full swing, we have the opportunity, finally, to kick back and recharge our batteries. I know, for one, I’m looking forward to hitting the slopes with my kids! i; When this issue makes it to your mailbox, I will hold the title of MetGCSA past presi­ dent. I can’t believe I’ve served on the board for 14 years already. I can remember like yes­ terday being appointed Education Com­ mittee chair and being handed the mam­ moth responsibility of planning what is now our Winter Seminar one week before Thanksgiving. Not one speaker lined up or credits applied for. Somehow, the committee and I pulled it off, and since then, we have had full-capacity attendance at that event. Getting it to that level is my proudest MetGCSA accomplishment. Nit Many 1» Thank I have spent my entire 22-year career in the Met area. In that time, I have met many great men and women. I would like to recognize a few, here, who have helped jumpstart my career. First, I would like to thank Tim O ’Neill of Country Club of Darien. Tim hired me as an intern in 1993 and aught me valuable lessons about turfgrass management. As MetGCSA president at the time, Tim brought me along to meetings, which gave me a clear sense of how cama­ raderie and networking play a key role in any successful career. The second person I would like to thank is Peter Rappoccio from Silver Spring ( Country Club. By the time you read this, Pete will be basking in the glow of retire­ ment after a 39-year stint at Silver Spring. Congrats to Pete and his amazing wife, Glen Dube, CGCS MetGCSA President Birdie, for such an accomplishment! Pete hired me in 1995 as an assistant right out college. Over the next three years, he molded me into the superintendent I am today. For that, I will be forever grateful. (Thanks Pops!) Last but not least, I would like to thank my oldest and best friend in this crazy busi­ ness, Blake Halderman. I met Blake in my first week of school at URL Unclear about what I wanted to study, he suggested that I try working on a golf course. He said that it was the coolest job he had ever had and that he planned to study turfgrass management. After one summer of working on a golf course, I, too, was hooked. Fast forward 25 years to today, and I just want to thank Blake for blazing the trail to this business and, more recently, to president prior to my term. Thank you, Blake, for all that you have done for the MetGCSA and in our 25 years of friendship. More thanks goes out to the long and dis­ tinguished list of great men who have served before me as MetGCSA president. It was an honor to represent an association that is revered not just locally, but nationally as well. It was an experience that I will cherish forever. I would also like to thank Mike McCall, our executive director. He has accomplished so much for the association in such a short time, and I am excited for the future. Thank you to our executive secre­ tary, Susan O ’Dowd. It was a pleasure work­ ing with her over the past several years; the association has never been as smooth an Continued on page 5 Tee to Green November/December 2016 0 5eature Cornell’s Dr. Frank Rossi Earns MetGCSA’s 2017 John Reid Lifetime Achievement Award by David Dudones he John Reid Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to my good friend and mentor, Cornell University’s Dr. Frank Rossi during the January 18 Winter Seminar. The MetGCSA presents this award annually to an individ­ ual or organization that, through continuing commitment, has shown exemplary support to the game of golf and golf course superin­ tendents. Frank is the Met’s 27th Reid Award recipient since it’s inception in 1986. Superintendents throughout the tri-state area—and globally—greatly appreciate Frank’s contributions to the game through his unending environmental leadership and research, his high regard for and support of our fellow superintendents, and his ability to captivate an audience no matter the speaking engagement or seminar. “Not only did Frank begin his career in the Met Area,” says Awards Committee Chair and Brae Burn Super Blake Halderman,“but he has been a great friend to the MetGCSA for many years. He is always eager to speak at conferences, he’s assumed a lead role on our New York State BMP Committee, and he continues to conduct research that supports the work of all of those in the golf industry. “Frank Fills the room at speaking engage­ ments,” continues Blake. “He’s a guy who has a tremendous store of knowledge and is not afraid to take a contrarian view on stan­ dard industry practices from time to time. With that, he makes you dig deep and think about whether what you are doing is really best for the turf, the environment, and the game of golf. “I can't think of a more deserving recipi­ ent,” says Blake, “and I am extremely proud to be honoring Frank with the 2017 John Reid Lifetime Achievement Award.” Turf Beginnings Growing up in Eastchester, NY, Frank is a Met native, which is pretty rare in the turf world. Loving the outdoors, Frank’s turf career began in high school mowing lawns with his brother-in-law Sal and then with Labriola Landscaping; he also worked for Leewood Golf Club through his early col­ lege years. Initially, Frank began his college career in agronomy and animal science at SUNY Cobleskill, but in his words, “became sick of studying about pigs and horses.” Frank sought the counsel of his advisor, Bob Em­ mons, who recommended that he pursue turfgrass management. And as Emmons tells it, “The rest is history.” Frank holds the highest regard for Bob. “He’s a great mentor and has been a true friend for more than 30 years,” says Frank, adding, “He’s the most caring man I have ever met.” Together the duo has collabo­ rated on the fifth edition of Turfgrass Science and Management. “I knew Frank was special when he was a student because he asked so many ques­ tions,” says Emmons. “Teachers often be­ moan the fact that students ask so few questions. Well with Frank, every two min­ utes was ‘why this?’ and ‘why that?’ Sometimes I was delighted, and other times I would have liked to put a gag in his mouth,” adds Emmons, fondly. “But Frank’s inquisitiveness has always been one of his outstanding qualities. No one deserves the Reid Award more.” Frank then headed to the University of Rhode Island with Dr. Skogley and the “fog on the Bonnet Shores” to finish his undergrad. That’s where he first crossed paths with Meadow Brook Club Super John Carlone.“I have had the pleasure of knowing Frank Rossi since 1982,” says John. “We were housemates as undergrads at the University of Rhode Island. We lived with an engineer­ ing major and two business majors. They had a hard time believing Frank and I were majoring in ‘growing grass,’ as they called it! I take a lot of personal satisfaction seeing my old friend’s career reach the highest level as a dynamic speaker and respected researcher and educator. He is most deserving of this award, and I am proud to see him receive it.” Higher Education After completing his undergraduate degree, Frank spent two years working at Green­ wich Country Club under then superin­ tendent Paul Caswell before returning to academia. “Paul’s favorite line to me,” remembers Frank, “was ‘you are too smart for your own good!”’ Needless to say, Frank was as inquisitive with Paul as he had been with his college professors, continually ask­ ing questions about the turf. This line of questioning ultimately shaped Frank’s ca­ reer going forward. As Frank pondered his career path, he realized that, to improve his career options, he would need further education. At that point, inspired by USGA agronomist Jim Snow, who he greatly admired and re­ spected, Frank had his sights set on becom­ ing a USGA agronomist. He applied first to Cornell where he was passed over for current USGA Senior Agronomist Bob Vavrek by former Reid Award winner Dr. Marty Petrovic. Un­ daunted, Frank returned to URI to pursue his master’s. Under the watchful eye of another of his mentors, Dr. Skogley, Frank studied Sweet Vernal Grass for low mainte­ nance turf areas. This would begin to shape his future approach to turfgrass: minimal, efficient, and effective. Frank completed his M.S. from URI in 1987 while also acting as superintendent at Wildfield Farm Links in Narragansett, RI. But his educational ambitions didn’t stop there. He was invited to pursue his Ph.D. in weed science under then Cornell University Professor Joe Neal (now at North Carolina State University). Frank received his Ph.D. from Cornell in 1991, describing the work as relentless but highly rewarding in more ways than one: In addition to receiving a stellar education, Frank met his wife, Barb, of 25 years while at Cornell. “She actually asked me out,” says Frank with a smile.” Making His Mark in the Industry Frank’s professional career did not begin with the USGA, as he had long ago hoped.“I explored many different career paths be­ cause there were no openings with the USGA,” explains Frank, who launched his professional career as an Environmental Education Specialist at Michigan State University. “That was the next turning point for me,” says Frank. “Working with Rieke, Vargas, Tee to Green November/December 2016 Branham, Rogers, Crum, and their crew of guys: Mike Safflel, Eric Miltner, and Darin Lickfeldt among them. It was an exciting time to be in turf with the pending golf building boom that then dominated the 1990s. And while all this was going on,” adds Frank,“I was saying .. .‘sustainability?’ ” Frank spent two years at Michigan State before accepting a position at The Univer­ sity of Wisconsin as an assistant professor and the Wisconsin State Extension turfgrass specialist. Frank loved his time in Madison and working through turfgrass issues with the good people from the great state of Wisconsin. He also enjoyed sharing his expertise on a call-in radio show he hosted on Wisconsin Public Radio. Just as Frank was making a name for him­ self as a dynamic speaker and leader in the industry, Cornell University lured him back to central New York to become an assistant professor of turfgrass science in 1996. Ironically, Dr. Marty Petrovic encouraged Frank to apply. “It’s funny how things work out sometimes,” says Frank. While initially focused on extension and research, Frank added a large teaching com­ ponent to his duties once he was tenured as an associate professor in 2003. Frank loves interacting with and guiding his students through his various classes, and his peer reviews have been off the charts. Colleague Dr. Bryan Duff states, “Watching Dr. Rossi in action has given me a new model that I can use in my own classes to demonstrate the power of know­ ing your students, knowing your colleagues and other resources, and knowing how it all fits together.” Those of us in the turf business have wit­ nessed Frank’s ability to engage an audience for many years. Frank has an uncanny abil­ ity to relate to any group he is speaking to, always generating interest and stimulating conversation. With a Funis on the Turf Pnilcssiniiiil During the past 20 years at Cornell, Frank has taken the lead in end-user-funded research. The MetGCSA, the Tri-State Turf Research Foundation, USGA, GCSAA, and many other associations have funneled re­ search dollars to Frank’s various efforts to research and resolve superintendents’ many turf-related issues. As a former graduate research assistant under Frank working on the Prevention and Alleviation of Moss on Putting Greens, I was truly amazed to see how much Frank is able to juggle at one time. He would be mentoring three graduate students, manag­ ing the research center, speaking at exten­ sion visits weekly, publishing CUTT (Cornell University Turfgrass Times), and serv­ ing as visiting scientist to the USGA, con­ tributing editor to Golfweek magazine, and visiting professor to the Swedish Agricul­ tural University. And in the midst of this seemingly insurmountable workload, he still managed to take the time needed to make sure everyone is on the right track. This is why Frank is the industry leader in research on nutrient management, non­ chemical pest management, and mowing technology. A few of his research topics have raised some eyebrows, but Frank always relates back to what the end-user is really asking: Is there a better mower or better way to mow? Is there a way to apply fewer chemicals and still produce the desired out­ come? Is there a way to do things better, cheaper, safer, faster? Again, Frank asks questions, not just of others, but also of the environment and world around him__ The makings of a true researcher. Some of Frank’s most publicized work was the nine-year study at Bethpage State Park on Long-Term Evaluation of Reduced Chemical Pesticide Management of Golf Course Putting Turf Using the Green Course as his testing ground, Frank worked with Golf Course Superintendents Andy Wilson and fellow SUNY Cobleskill alum Craig Cur­ rier to carry out the research. The project eventually developed into an excellent education manual—Reducing Chemical Use on Golf Course Turf: Redefining IPM—com­ piled with the help of Cornell colleagues Dr. Jennifer Grant and the late Robert Portmess. Recalling Frank’s work, Craig Currier, now at The Glen Oaks Club, offers high praise:“Frank is a true environmental leader in golf and has been instrumental in all the success Bethpage has had over the past 20 years. He is an icon and a great ambassador for the turf industry.” Highly regarded industrywide, Frank has received a long list of accolades. Among the many: • Environmental Communicator of the Year • One of the Most influential People in the Green Industry • New York State Turf & Landscape Association’s Man of the Year • Certificates of Excellence for the CUTT publication • Awards for Outstanding Educational Materials for his Lawn Care and Water Quality Almanac • Golfweek magazine’s One of the Top 40 Most Influential People in the Game of Golf Under the Age of 40 Most recently, Frank is receiving high praise for his involvement in the Best Man­ agement Practices (BMPs) for New York State Golf Courses. These research-based, voluntary BMP guidelines were designed to assist superintendents in protecting New York’s water resources. Initiated in 2012, the development of the BMPs was spearheaded by the MetGCSA and authors from Cornell University. Frank was a major player, serving as lead author in the development of the BMP guidelines. He was also instrumental in the development and 2014 launch of the BMP website. “Frank has been a strong leader and our MVP in developing, promoting, and contin­ ually updating the BMP guidelines,” says BMP Committee Chair and GlenArbor Su­ perintendent Ken Benoit. “The BMPs pro­ vide essential guidelines for all stewards of the environment, superintendents key among them.” Frank’s list of involvements is never-end­ ing. Add to his already sizable list of com­ mitments, consulting for Central Park and the New York Yankees and developing sand and grass specifications for the 2016 Olympic Golf Course in Rio de Janiero with fellow Cornelian Gil Hanse. “It has been my great joy to have worked with superintendents around the world,” says Frank. “The opportunity to serve an industry that toils in obscurity . . . with often thankless hours of patience and per­ sistence in the pursuit of perfection. I like being with golf course crews and hence my interest in serving on tournament crews. I want guys to think I’ve got their backs in the many areas that are part of the life of a golf course superintendent.” Frank is, and always has been, “The Turf Guy” with the turf professional top of mind. son, Tucker; and daughters Danielle and Nicole. Nome on the Farm When Frank is not traveling the globe talk­ ing turf, he is home in Trumansburg, NY, with his wife and kids tending to the farm that Barb manages. As gentlemen farmers, Barb and Frank believe the farm, which they run for the love of farming, not money, has greatly helped their well-being and has been a great tool to teach responsibility to their children: Danielle, 30; Nicole, 21; and Tucker, 16. The Bel Canto Farm began as an alpaca breeding farm in 2004 and has grown into breeding Kunekune Heritage pasture pigs and chickens for a local meat and egg source. On the weekends, you will always find Frank sporting his earbuds listening to his favorite tunes, while lost in the routine of feeding the animals, cleaning the barns, and raking up the manure.“His meticulous cleaning has earned him the title ‘Director of Waste Management’ at Bel Canto Farm,” says Barb with a smile. Frank treasures quality time at home with Barb and the kids: nights relaxing by the fireside, dining out on the patio on a warm summer evening, the traditional Friday night pizza and movies, a fun sum­ mer whiffle ball tournament with his son, Tucker, or just looking out over the beauti­ ful landscape. And when time allows, Frank loves family getaways, with the peace and tranquility of oceanside destinations among his favorite. Frank is proud to be a part of this industry and Cornell.“! have had great students, and I’ve enjoyed watching them mature person­ ally and professionally, many becoming leaders in our industry—and even in the veterinarian world,” notes Frank. “And I have been equally fortunate to have had mentors who modeled the kind of profes­ sional I wanted to be.” But despite the many relationships Frank has nurtured through­ out his career, those that top the list are the ones he’s forged with family. “Most important to me,” says Frank, “is the undying love and support I get from Barb and the kids and my NYC clan and central New York families as well. Without them, it would be very empty.... I am very rich.” Congratulations! President's Message continuedfrom page l operation as it is today. A special thanks also goes out to Pandora Wojick. She takes the gibberish I write and polishes it up to make me sound somewhat coherent. Thanks, Pandora! Last, I would like to thank all the mem­ bers of the MetGCSA board. As I finish my tenure as president, I can assure you that the MetGCSA is in great hands. The current board is comprised of some of the most dedicated, hardworking individuals that you will find anywhere. I’d like to welcome new board members Steve Loughran of Rock Ridge Country Club, Dan Rogers of Wykagyl Country Club, and our new Class C rep from Brae Burn, Dave Peterson, and Class AF rep from Harrell’s, Scott Tretera. Finally, special thanks to those leaving the board for their hard work and dedication: Doug Drugo; Dave Parson, our Class C rep; and Bobby Steinman, our Class AF rep. I wish MetGCSA President Dave Dudones and the board the best of luck this year, and I look forward to serving the association as your past president. Glen Dube, CGCS MetGCSA President As president of the MetGCSA, I would like to congratulate Frank on behalf of all our members. As a friend, colleague, and former grad student, Frank’s selection for our coveted Reid Award is no surprise and will become another of a long list of Frank’s accomplishments and well-deserved awards. Please make every attempt to attend this year’s Winter Seminar to help celebrate Frank’s storied career and listen, as he con­ tinues to ask questions to make us think ... all while entertaining us at the same time. David Dudones, president of the MetGCSA, is superintendent at Westchester Country Club in Rye, NY. Tee to Green November/December 2016 C jS National News Member Growth and BMP Guide Hot Topics at Annual Delegates Meeting ^embership engagement 1and growth, advocacy ef­ M forts, and an upcoming best management practices guide were among the key topics discussed at the 2016 Chapter Delegates Meeting. The 82 dele­ gates from 84 chapters also heard from nominees for the 2017 GCSAA Board of Directors. The two-day meeting, held October 1112 in Kansas City, MO, and at GCSAA head­ quarters in Lawrence, KS, also offered delegates the chance to discuss issues and provide input in small group sessions and during a “town hall” session. While one-third of attendees were first­ time delegates, many of the delegates return year-after-year for the opportunity to not only hear about the different challenges and concerns superintendents face around the country, but also to have a hand in promot­ ing change and making a difference for the association and profession. The event opened with updates from GCSAA President Peter Grass and GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans, who also took this op­ portunity to present checks to the chapters that participated in Rounds 4 Research in 2016. . cused on the issues of H-2B, the Mega 16 initiative, WOTUS, and the overtime pay rule. Other discussions involved using #golfvotes hashtag on social media to engage more members in the upcoming elections. There was also considerable dis­ cussion on encouraging participation in the 10th anniversary of National Golf Day in 2017, as well as options for expanding GCSAA advocacy efforts. • Best Management Practices (BMPs) Planning Guide and Template. Delegates were given a sneak peek at GCSAA’s BMP Planning Guide and Template, which will be launched at the 2017 Golf Industry Show in Orlando. The tool will provide a roadmap for golf-centric organizations at the state level to develop and implement BMP pro­ grams. The goal is to have BMPs for all 50 states by 2020. Delegates were provided with talking points to help promote the program. Meet the Candidates Last but not least, delegates had the oppor­ tunity to listen to presentations from candi­ dates running for national office. After the presentations, delegates were able to meet and greet the candidates in small breakout sessions to learn more about their platforms and philosophies. The 2017 GCSAA slate of On Day Two of the event, GCSAA staff board candidates are: shared three key initiatives with the group: For President • Membership engagement and growth. Plans to increase member engagement in­ Bill H. Maynard, CGCS, Country Club of clude strategies across all classifications. St. Albans, MO Contact with new members will increase, Vice President with personalized messages sent at one, For Darren J. Davis, CGCS, Olde Florida Golf three, and six months after joining. There Club, Naples, FL will also be efforts focused on moving Class B members up to Class A, creating new For Secretary/Treasurer member packets specifically for the equip­ • Rafael Barajas, CGCS, Boca Grove ment manager (EM) class, and strengthen­ Plantation and Country Club, ing the connection between student Boca Raton, FL members and local chapters. Potential bylaw • John R. Fulling Jr., CGCS, Kalamazoo changes to the definitions of the EM class Country Club, Kalamazoo, MI and International Superintendent Members For Director (electing 3) could broaden growth opportunities. • Kevin P. Breen, CGCS, La Rinconada • Government affairs. The Grassroots Am­ Club, Los Gatos, CA bassadors program continues to grow, and Country • Jeffrey CGCS, Edgewood Golf government affairs efforts are currently fo­ Course, BigF. Millies, Bend, WI ki*y Initiat ives Discussed ® Tee to Green November /December 2016 • Ror} Course, San Tan Va|fey, AZ • John Walker, Bentwater Yacht and Country Club, Montgomery, TX There are three open positions for director, with John Fulling and Mark Jordan at the end of their two-year director terms and John Walker completing a one-year appoint­ ment. The three director candidates receiv­ ing the most votes will be elected to twoyear'terms. As for the secretary/treasurer candidates, if Rafael Barajas is elected secretary/trea­ surer, John Fulling will have to be nomi­ nated from the floor for the position of director, since he is at the end of his twoyear term. The remaining year of Barajas’ director’s term would then be filled by an appointment. If, on the other hand, John Fulling is elected secretary/treasurer, Rafael Barajas will automatically remain on the board as a director for another year. Kevin Breen remains on the board with one year remaining in his two-year term. Peter Grass of Flighlands Golf Club in Billings, MT, will serve on the board for one year as immediate past president, and MetGCSA member and Preakness Hills Superintendent John O ’Keefe will retire from the board after serving this past year as immediate past president. The election will take place on February 9, 2017 at the GCSAA Annual Meeting in Orlando, FL. Final Note The Chapter Delegates Meetings pointed to the fact that the GCSAA Board of Directors is continuing to take the steps necessary to ensure the association’s ongoing progress * and success and for keeping the membership well informed of new developments. Be sure to take a moment to view the information presented at the meeting, which is available online. Kudos to GCSAA Past President John O ’Keefe for his efforts in initiating positive change for our national organiza­ tion throughout his term on the board! Upcoming Events Enjoy a Day of Education at the MetGCSA Winter Seminar ) f he Winter Seminar will return W again this year to Westchester Country Club in Rye, NY, on January 18. Education Chair Brett Chapin and his committee have pulled together an out­ standing lineup of speakers once again this year. The speakers and their topics: • Dr. Frank Wong o f Bayer Crop Science will share the ins and outs of pro­ tecting pollinators on golf courses. • Dr. Doug Soldat o f the University of Wisconsin-Madison will discuss the fun­ damentals of phosphorus and potassium management. • Dr. Michael Richardson o f the Uni­ versity of Arkansas will share his thoughts on the effect of too much shade on golf course turf in his talk titled, “How Much Shade is Too Much Shade?” • Dr. Frank Rossi of Cornell University will discuss his work to assess golf shoe spike and outsole design on cool-season putting surface quality and performance. One of the highlights of the Winter Seminar is the Awards Luncheon. In addi­ tion to offering attendees a wonderful lunch, the MetGCSA takes this opportunity to recognize special contributors to the golf course industry. This year, we will be honor­ ing a highly respected researcher who also happens to be a MetGCSA member and Winter Seminar speaker: Cornell’s Dr. Frank Rossi. Frank will receive our coveted John Reid Lifetime Achievement Award. Last but not least, seminar-goers will have the opportnity to visit with area ven­ dors, who will display their products and services throughout the course of the event. Please be sure to join us for this special edu­ cational opportunity! 2017 Nor'easter Ski Day 2017 Turfgrass Advocacy Day Other Educational & Social Events Southeast Regional Conference Wednesday - Thursday,January 25 - 26 Ramada Inn, Fishkill, NY The Southeast Regional Conference offers a variety of educational sessions with lead­ ing turfgrass educators and industry profes­ sionals. For further information, visit www.nysta.org or contact the NYSTA office at 518-783-1229. GCSAA Golf Tournament Saturday - Monday, February 4 - 6 Orlando, FL Competitors will enjoy the camaraderie and friendly competition over five Orlando-area courses. GCSAA Education Conference & Golf Industry Show Monday - Thursday, February 6 - 9 Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL Be sure not to miss this year’s opportu­ nity to network and discuss with fellow professionals the latest trends, products, and services in the turfgrass industry. Nor'easter Event Wednesday, February 8, 6:30- 9:00p.m. Lafayette’s Orlando 9101 International Drive, Orlando, FL Hosted again this year by the MetGCSA and seven other associations, the event will include an open bar, appetizers, food station, and live music. Be sure to stop by! Thursday, February 16 Killington Ski Resort Killington, VT Don’t miss this multi-association event that includes family fun on the Killington slopes. Information about lodging and registration can be found on the Vermont superintend­ ent’s website at vtgcsa.com. Lodging is likely to fill up fast, so please be sure to call in for housing as soon as possible. The room blocks will be dropped after January 31, but were sure the rooms will sell out before then. Contact Andy Drohen at andy.drohen@ kochind.com for further information. 20th Annual New England Regional Turfgrass Conference and Show Monday - Thursday, March 6 - 9 Rhode Island Convention Center Providence, RI For the 20th consecutive year, the conference and show provides turfgrass professionals from all areas of the industry the opportu­ nity to see the newest products, supplies, services, and equipment available while offering a host of informative educational sessions, pesticide recertification credits, and networking opportunities. Watch for details on www.NERTF.org, or call 401-841-5490 for further information. Wednesday, March 8 Empire State Plaza Albany, NY The Turfgrass Advocacy Day offers the opportunity to attend a priority issue brief­ ing session on current legislation that could affect the turfgrass and green industry, as well as a chance to meet with your local elected officials and later discuss issues over lunch with a government official. For further information, contact the NYSTA office at 518-783-1229 or visit www.nysta.org. 2017 MGA Green Chairman Education Seminar & Arthur P. Weber MGA Club Environmental Leaders in Golf Award Luncheon March date TEA North Hill Country Club Manhassett, NY Watch for the date and details of this mustattend educational event. As always, the Metropolitan Golf Association Foundation will offer a highly informative Green Chairman Education Seminar with talks from a variety of golf industry experts and the presentation of the Arthur P. Weber MGA Club Environmental Leaders in Golf Award. Look for Arthur P. Weber MGA Club En­ vironmental Leaders in Golf Award applica­ tions to arrive shortly! Tee to Green November/December 2 0 16 Valuable Lessons Learned by All at Fall Educational Seminar by Ray Platt he MetGCSA and CAGCS Edu­ cation Committees joined forces ragain this year to put together another great roster of speakers for the annual Fall Educational Seminar at The Patterson Club in Fairfield, CT, on November 17. In addition to enjoying an informative and thought-provoking day of education, seminar participants were able to grab time between talks to share with one another their trials, tribulations, and lessons learned from a difficult past season. We would like to extend a sincere thank you to host Superintendent Jason Meersman and the rest of the staff at The Patterson Club for their generous hospitality. And many thanks to Brett Chapin and his Education Committee for working with the Connecticut group to put together a superb lineup of speakers. What follows are the highlights of each presentation, with contact information if you find you’d like to delve deeper into any one of the subjects. Weed Control in Lovv-iVlaintemmce Houghs and Natural Areas on Loll Courses Dr. Jared Hoyle from Kansas State Univer­ sity discussed the current shift in focus per­ taining to golf course rough and lowmaintenance areas. The form and function of roughs are slowly evolving from tradi­ tional, manicured stands of turfgrass to more environmentally friendly and eco­ nomically sustainable native or naturalized areas. Dr. Hoyle stressed that when planning native areas, establishing a vision or in­ tended purpose is critical to ensuring a suc­ cessful conversion. Dr. Hoyle also shared information on a number of weed manage­ ment techniques useful when establishing and managing native areas, including con­ trolled burns, cultivation, and chemical con­ trol tactics. In the end, Dr. Hoyle cautioned that dur­ ing and after the establishment of natural­ ized or native areas, the resulting increase in diversity of flora may not allow for the Tee to Green November /December 2016 e The Science lleliiml Turf Growth Regulation Growing Degree Day Modeling expected reduction in inputs due to varying resource and management requirements. ¡Hid For further information, Dr. Hoyle can be reached at jahoyle@ksu.edu or 785-5321419. Rick Fletcher from Nufarm shared an indepth look at the various plant growth regu­ lators (PGR) and the factors that determine reapplication timing. Fletcher noted that calendar-based PGR programs are not suffi­ Dr. Nathaniel Mitkowski from the Univer­ cient in maintaining clipping yield suppres­ sity of Rhode Island discussed the chal­ sion, mainly because climate and temper­ lenges many golf courses experienced ature variations have a notable impact on throughout 2016 and how these challenges PGR application intervals. compared to previous years. Dr. Mitkowski Fletcher compared PGR applications to started by comparing local weather patterns a swinging pendulum: Immediately after with global trends. He explained that global the application, you see a heavy influence in trends will sometimes vary from what we growth reduction; as the pendulum swings experience locally due to microclimates back, degradation takes place and the and local temperature fluctuations. None­ growth rate surges. theless, Dr. Mitkowski emphasized that, even For more information Rick Fletcher though we can’t control the weather, we can be reached at 856-296-0422 or at need to excel at adapting to it. Rick.Fletcher@us.nufarm.com. Dr. Mitkowski went on to explain that when anticipating summer stress it is impor­ tant to prepare for the worst. He reminded the audience of some rudimentary princi­ ples of turfgrass physiology and heat and moisture stress. In addition to discussing the weather, Dr. Albrecht Koppenhofer from Rutgers Mitkowski also covered a few turf diseases University discussed recent findings regard­ that plagued golf courses this season, in­ ing the management of insecticide resist­ cluding Pythium patch, Pythium root rot, ance in the annual bluegrass weevil. He and yellow spot. The extreme environmen­ showed that though insecticide cross-resist­ tal stresses, coupled with potentially poor ance is very common, a good rotation pro­ growing environments, in some cases, gram will help delay further resistance caused these diseases to occur even with development. He noted that overwintered ABW adults proper preventive fungicides in place. Some courses lost large portions of putting greens do not start laying eggs until after their as a result, further highlighting the reasons densities peak on the short-mown turf to closely monitor weather-related stress areas around the time when Forsythias and anticipate problems before they become are half gold, half green. This is the best time to apply an adulticide in spring. The unmanageable. earlier the applications are made before this For more information, Dr. Mitkowski can time, the less effective they are and the more be reached at mitkowski@uri.edu or 401they can enhance insecticide resistance 874-5996. The Stress of 2(1115: How to Prevent Fut ure Turf Loss Don't Get Thun Angry: Avoiding ¡mil Managing Insecticide Resistance in the Annual Dlnegruss Weevil Scorecard 2016 Dave Mahoney Two-Ball Championship Still to Finish development because late-appearing adults will be exposed to sublethal insecticide concentrations. Dr. Koppenhofer presented a variety of options to manage ABW populations with varying levels of resistance. He suggested minimizing adulticide applications and con­ centrating instead on controlling larvae based on good monitoring of adult and espe­ cially larval populations. He showed that chlorpyrifos is not an effective alternative to pyrethroids against resistant ABW adults, leaving no effective adulticides for resistant populations. On the other hand, he showed that the larvicides Ference and Conserve were unaffected by resistance, and Provaunt was effective except against very highly resistant ABW. Email Dr. Koppenhofer at koppenhofer@ AESOP.Rutgers.edu for more information, Newer Strategies In dombnl Nematodes ¡mil Hoot lint Dr. Derek Settle from Bayer Crop Sciences began the discussion by reminding the audi­ ence that the weathermans predictions were correct in saying 2016 was going to be a tough year. Dr. Settle went on to discuss nematodes, their biology, and some newly developed control methods, including Bayers newly released Indemnify and upcoming Exteris. Nematodes are one of the most difficult turfgrass pests to manage and are commonly misdiagnosed. Dr. Settle shared some text­ book examples of signs and symptoms caused by a nematode infestation, such as root dieback or discoloration, patches of turf that are blotchy and thinning or showing signs of wilt even with adequate watering. Many superintendents are hopeful that Bayer’s new products will provide a viable solution for this troublesome pest, especially now that Nemacur has been removed from the market. For more information, Dr. Settle can be reached at derek.settle@bayer.com or 312350-4286. ( J his year’s Two-Ball Championship was like no other, with extreme weather conditions leav­ ing a number of teams struggling to com­ plete their matches. There were several defaults and, for the first time ever, an incomplete, as players just couldn’t afford to take their eyes off their courses. Despite this, there were a good number who did get out there to play some great matches on some great courses. And the Second Flight did finish with a champion. Here’s a quick recap. Lippman. Walker Sc Batz took the lead on the front nine and kept it. McGlone and Lippman began a strong comeback on the back nine bringing the match to within one. However, the clutch play of Walker & Batz lasted long enough for them to win the Second Flight. The course played tight on a glorious, cool October afternoon. Thanks to Nick Lerner for providing slick greens and challenging pins! First Flight Recap First Flight Finalists, Todd Apgar (Metro Turf Specialists) Sc Jason Meersman (The Second Flight Recap Patterson Club) battled through the other The Second Flight Finalist team of Tim top-flight teams o f... Walker (Leewood) Sc Ryan Batz (Grass Roots) barreled through the talented • Glen Dube (Centennial) Sc Blake Halderman (Brae Burn) Second Flight teams o f... • Steve Loughran (Rock Ridge) Sc Brian • Lou Quick (Anglebrook) Sc Paul Bontemps (Seton Turf Warehouse) • Ryan Oliver (Hudson National) Sc Tom Gonzalez (Whippoorwill) • Jamie Devers (Canoe Brook) Sc Mike Weintert (Plant Food Company) Brunelle (Upper Montclair) • Rob Alonzi (Fenway) Sc Scott Apgar The other First Flight Finalist team of Scott Niven (Stanwich) Sc Larry Pakkala (Silver(Metro Turf Specialists) ... to meet up with the other Second Flight mine) showed their tournament-level play­ Finalist team of Steven McGlone ing skills by defeating the teams o f... (Siwanoy) Sc Bob Lippman (Westchester • Jeff Wentworth (Pelham) Sc Tony Hooks Turf) (Due Process) McGlone Sc Lippman were able to take • David Dudones (Westchester) Sc Grover Alexander (Hudson Hills) care o f... • Shannon Slevin (Old Oaks) Sc Dave • Rob Milar (St. Andrews) Sc Dave Lippman (Westchester Turf) Conrad (Plant Food Company) ... to make it to the final match. • Steve Wickstrom (Burning Tree) & Matt Neus (Knollwood) • Chris Alonzi (Elmwood) Sc Mike Cook But time went by too quickly, and the final championship match couldn’t be played (The Care of Trees) . . . to make it to the fateful final round before the winter weather took hold, so the two finalist teams have agreed to play in against Walker Sc Batz early spring, before the 2017 Two-Ball On October 13 at Bonnie Briar, the team Qualifier. Stay tuned for the results next of Walker Sc Batz took down McGlone Sc spring! Ray Platt is an assistant superintendent at Fairview Country Club in Greenwich, CT. Tee to Green November/December 2016 Member News Regional News Brian Mahoney Named MGA Executive Director ) he Metropolitan Golf AssociaM tion has named Brian Mahoney as the association’s new executive di­ rector, starting on February 1,2017. Working for the MGA since 2001, Mahoney has, for the past two years, served as managing director, rules, competitions, and GHIN services. He will succeed Jay Mottola who, after 34 years in the position, is preparing to step down. Mottola will remain active with the MGA and the MGA Foundation as a senior advisor. “I am extremely proud and humbled for the opportunity to serve as the next execu­ tive director of this storied golf association,” said Mahoney. “The MGA has been an in­ tegral part of my family’s culture for more than 40 years, dating back to my grandfa­ ther Gerald T. Mahoney.” Gerald Mahoney served as the executive director from 19801981 and later as the MGAs director of golf programs. Looking ahead to his new role as execu­ tive director, Mahoney notes, “It’s a very exciting time for our team here at the MGA, our volunteer leadership, and the entire Met Area golfing community, as we all work together toward the goal of seeing the game continue to grow and prosper.” Mahoney, 37, who grew up in the greater Milwaukee area, resides in Stamford, CT, with his wife, Kelly, and their two children. 3 Tee to Green November/December 2016 : Bill Caputi Scholarship Raffle Drawing Ken Benoit and Nick Lern er f f he halls of Bonnie Briar M Country Club were filled with holiday cheer at the annual MetGCSA Christmas Party on December 8. Casual, yet elegant, ruled the day as more than 60 members turned out to put a grueling season behind them by cele­ brating with good food and drink. Our host superintendent, Nick Lerner, along with the rest of the management team at Bonnie Briar—General Manager Kevin Burke, Executive Chef Matt O ’Connor, and Assistant General Manager Nina Garcia—ensured a warm welcome for the association along with exceptional service and mouthwatering appetizers and entrees. During the event, the winners of the Annual Bill Caputi Scholarship Raffle were drawn. The raffle is the prime source of the scholarship awards we dis­ tribute to deserving Met member recipi­ ents each year. Many thanks to all who contributed and also to those who sold tickets for this worthwhile fundraiser. Here’s who held the winning tickets: First Prize ~ $2,000 Bill Bartels, Tanto Irrigation Se