TIC V PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Keith E. Paterson, C.G.C.S. It’s really hard to believe the summer is over already. This past summer certainly has to be one of the nicest I have experienced for growing turf in my eight year career. I hope everyone had a good year. I would like to encourage everyone to attend the annual meeting this year. The highlight of the meeting will be our guest speaker, Dr. Houston Couch, from Virginia Poly Tech. A reprint of an article about Dr. Couch’s research appears in this issue. There will also be a drawing for a video recorder. Each time a member attended a meeting this year, his or her name was plac­ ed in the drum. The final event of the day will be the chapter elections. A slate has been prepared by the nominating committee, (see inside) but anyone can be nominated from the floor. I would like to personally invite everyone to the fall party on Saturday, November 9th at Spring Lake Country Club. Hope to see you there. MEETING SCHEDULE October 7 .....................................................................................................................Blythefield C.C. Annual Meeting Spring Lake C.C. November 9 Fall Party 1985 WMGCSA OFFICERS Keith Paterson C.G.C.S.......................................................President Spring Lake Country Club, Spring Lake, Michigan 616/842-4840 KLEINS for turf care Kurt Thuemmel C.G.C.S..............................................Vice-President Walnut Hills Country Club, E. Lansing, Michigan 517/332-6060 Chris Fochtm an................................................Secretary-Treasurer Greenridge C.C., 740 Greenridge Dr., N.W., Grand Rapids, Ml 616/784-6597 Directors Bill Davis Mary wood C.C., Battle Creek, Ml 616/962-9784 Roger Barton Blythefleld C.C., Belmont, Ml 616/363-5945 Bob Hope C.G.C.S. Kent C.C., Grand Rapids, Ml 616/363-6728 Paul Hoag Scott Lake C.C., Comstock Park, Ml 616/784-1355 Fred Pastoor Muskegon C.C., Muskegon, Ml 616/759-0694 Charles Scott Gull Lake View G.C, Augusta, Ml 616/731-4148 Kurt Thuemmel C.G.C.S. Walnut Hills Country Club, East Lansing, Ml 517/332-6060 Editorial Committee Chairman-Advertising................................Keith Paterson C.G.C.S. Spring Lake C.C. - 616/842-4840 Photographer..............................................................TonyTredente Spartan Distributors - 616/887-7301 Bill Madigan C.G.C.S., C.C. of Jackson - o17/787-0650 Kurt Thuemmel C.G.C.S., Walnut Hills C.C. - 517/332-6060 Advertisers Please patronize them as they have made this newsletter possible. Art Hills & Associates Boylan Sales C-R Grinding Century Rain Aide Ellis Sales Grand Rapids Tree Ideal Mower Sales Keizer Equipment Co. Klein Fertilizer LESCO Lawn Equipment Matthews & Sons Miller West, Inc. J. Mollema & Sons NOR-AM Chemical Co. O.M. Scott Parmenter & Andre Raymer Pump Spartan Distributors Standard Sand Turf Chemicals Turf Grass Woodland Tree CIL Sulfur Coated Urea • research proven quality in slow release nitrogen Sulfate of Potash • a plus for plant turgidity and winter heartiness Soil Sampling • Kleins will custom blend fertilizer to meet your specific needs Minor Elements • secondary nutrients can be blended • elemental sulfur available for into the fertilizer mix problem areas Turf Chemicals • fungicides, herbicides, cides, and surfactants Turf Fertilizers • Golf Club Green • 20- 10- 10* • 24-8-8* 18-5-9 20-10-10* Weed & Fe< These are a few analyses that can be made with various percentages of slow release nitrogen up to 100%. For additional information contact: Ted Kasel or Dennis Judd (517) 223-9148 Convenient plant locations at Perrinton, Marne and Fowlerville Klein Fertilizer, Inc. 320 Garden Lane Fowlerville, Michigan 48836 SLATE OF CANDIDATES President.................................... Kurt Thummel, C.G.C.S. Walnut Hillss C.C. Vice-President ...................................................Bill Davis Marywood C.C. Roger Barton Blythefield C.C. Secretary-Treasurer ................................Chris Fochtman Green Ridge C.C. Directors......................................................... Jeff Gorney Grand Rapids Elks Gary Bateman Katke Golf Club Charles Dinkins Charles Binder Park Bob Johnson Forest Hills C.C. L E S C O . . . for all your turfgrass needs. As a major manufacturer, formulator and distributor for the green industry, LESCO sells a complete line of fertilizers, control products, grass seed, equipment, replacement parts and a wide assortment of tee markers, flags, sandtrap rakes and other golf course accessories. Whatever you need for turf maintenance, call LESCO first — toll-free. (800) 321-5325 NATIONWIDE (800) 362-7413 IN OHIO LESCO, Inc., 20005 Lake Road, Rocky River, Ohio 44116 (216)333-9250 NEW MEMBERS Twelve new members were approved at our August 5th board meeting, and they vary from former members retur­ ning to us to a club manager, from superintendents and assistants to sales representatives. Brian Hamilton is a newly approved member who is returning to us. For the past four years Brian has been superintendent of Lincoln Hills Golf Club in Ludington. Before that he was one of our members as the assistant superintendent to Jeff Gorney at the Grand Rapids Elks. He also worked on the grounds crew of Amway World Headquarters and as the assistant superintendent of Chase Hammond Golf Course. Brian lives with his wife, Martha, in Ludington. Randy Caniff, 2 year superintendent of North Kent Golf Course in Rockford, is also a former member of the Western Michigan G.C.S.A. Randy was superintendent at Silver Lake Country Club before taking his present posi­ tion at North Kent. Randy lives in Sparta with his wife, Sharon. For the past 5 years Kent Enyart has been the superintendent of Mullenhurst Golf Club in Delton. He did his placement training in 1979 under Don Fitz at Cascade Hills Country Club. Kent resides in Delton with his wife, Ann. Arbor Hills Country Club’s new superintendent is Jim Eccleton. Jim’s previous experience includes one year as the assistant at Tam O Shanter in Bloomfield, one year of placement training at Barton Hills Country Club in Ann Arbor and 10 years as owner of Willow Creek Golf Course in Stockbridge. Jim and his wife, Denice, live in Jackson. Jim Roschek knows more than just how to grow grass; he also knows how to play off from it. Jim is the pro­ superintendent at Milham Park Golf Course in Kalamazoo and has been for the past 5 years. Before that he was golf professional at Royal Scot Golf Club in Lansing for 4 years. Both the superintendent and the manager of Burr Oak Golf Course in Parma have been accepted into our association. Superintendent Jim Johnson, not to be con­ fused with our LESCO regional manager, has been at Burr Oak for the past 4 seasons. Before that he was assistant superintendent at Burroughs Farm in Brighton, Franklin Hills in Farmington and Traverse City Golf & Country Club. Along with Jim is his manager David Sayers who spent 2 years in investment-financial planning and 11 years as a locomotive engineer. David resides in Clark Lake with his wife, Michelle. Kim Richardson is keeper of the grounds at the Coun­ try Club of Jackson, and I am confident is learning much from superintendent Bill Madigan. Roger Barton’s new assistant at Blythefield Country Club is Dan Claxton. Dan was promoted from grounds crew worker in 1984 to assistant superintendent for the 1985 season and is very qualified for his present position. Dan completed the 2 year turfgrass management program at Michigan State University and did his placement training at the Jack Nicklaus Sports Center near Cincinatti. Dan lives in Comstock Park. Gene Johanningsmeier’s step-son, Keith Richards, is Turfgrass, Inc.’s representative to the West Michigan area. Keith knows more than just being related to the boss, which isn’t a bad start. His experiences also include be­ ing assistant superintendent at Knollwood Country Club for a year and a half and a 4 year turf student at Michigan State University. Keith lives in Walker, Michigan. Spartan Distributors has two new sales representatives in their irrigation department. They are Ted Johnson and Jim Volgstadt. Ted lives in Holland and has been with Spar­ tan Distributors for a year. Jim has worked as a district manager of an irrigation division, and is a graduate of the 2 year turfgrass management program. Jim lives in the Grand Rapids area with his wife, Margaret. As you can see, there is a great diversification of peo­ ple interested in our association and our industry and the Western Michigan G.C.S.A. welcomes them. 3 THE TYPICAL GCSAA SUPERINTENDENT Dean E. Watkins, CGCS Golf & Grounds Superintendent Guyan Golf & Country Club Credit: On The Green The Golf Course Superintendents Associaiton of America recently published the results of the GCSAA At­ titude Survey of 1984. The survey was mailed to all Class A, B, Associate and Student members of GCSAA. A total of 4,632 audits were mailed and 1,745 were returned for a response rate of 38%. Most (96%) of the responses received were from Class A. and B superintendent members. I found the stats to be very interesting, and com­ piled, what I believe is an overview of the typical superintendent member of GCSAA. I hope you will find this overview interesting and informative. The responses received indicate the typical superinten­ dent to be a male (99.5%) under 35 years of age (66%), married (86%) with 1 or 2 children (62%). He is a Class A superintendent (87%), has been a member of GCSAA for less than 10 years (75%) and is not a Certified Golf Course Superintendent (16%) but plans to become one (57%). He holds either a Bachelors Degree (55%) or an Associates Degree (20%) and receives a base annual salary of $35,000 to $45,000 (43%). His official job title is Golf Course Superintendent (48%), he spends less than 20% of his time in non-golf course related areas of management (52%) and answers to either the Green Chairman (23%) or the President/CEO of his company (35%). During the peak season he will employ 11-15 employees (51%). The typical GCSAA superintendent is employed on a regulation (par 34 + per 9 holes) (96%) 18 hole facility (81%) where he has been more than 3 years but less than 10 years (62%). He has worked in the field of golf course operations for more than 6 years but less than 15 years (65%). His golf facility is 11 to 20 years old (45%), private or semi-private (76%), has a temperate climate (59%) and is fully maintained between 9 and 11 months of the year (46%). The average annual rainfall in his area is between 21 and 30 inches (46%) with a sandy loam soil (43%) on gently rolling terrain (57%). WOODLAND TREE SERVICE, INC. 3520 Wile*. S W Wyoming. M ichigan 49509 HAROLD POSTMA BILL DREWS Phone (616) 538 4030 THE FOUNDER’S SOCIETY How many times have you been at an award presenta­ tion or retirement dinner and heard the “ man of the hour” remarking how much he has received from the industry and how impossible it would be to repay that debt? The Founder’s Society of the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation was established for those individuals who would like to give something back to the industry that has contributed so much to everyone who has been associated with it. The money provided from the society will be used for major research equipment to be purchased for the Hancock Turf Lab at Michigan State University. Your commitment of $200 per year for five years will enable you to show your support and gratitude. With your first installment you will receive a 14k gold Founder’s Society pin to signify your commitment to the growth of the turf industry in the state of Michigan. There’s more good news! Most of your donation is tax deductable. Michigan State University now recognizes donations to the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation as direct contributions to the University, therefore qualifying your donation for greater tax benefits. Example: If your taxable income is $30,000 per year and you claim 4 dependents, your $200 contribution to the Founder’s Society would, in fact, after the deduction on your income tax, only cost you about $60. (Remember this is a generality and may vary slightly.) Upon receipt of your contribution you will receive a tax receipt for your records from the university. Why not fill out the form below and insure a bright future for the turf industry? □ Yes, I would like to join the Founder’s Society. Name ______________________________________________________ __ Address ___________________________________________________________ _ City/State/Zip________________________________________________________ Make checks payable to Michigan Turfgrass Foundation Mail to: Michigan Turfgrass Foundation, RO. Box 275, Okemos, Michigan 48864 4 PAR AIDE STANDARD DUPONT RHONE-POLENC (Chipco) TUCO (Upjohn) VELSICOL GORDON AQUATROLS AQUASHADE NELSON-MOODY RAINBIRD PVC PIPE & FITTINGS WEST M ICHIGAN DISTRIBUTORS OF MILORGANITE FERTILIZER 1042 MICHIGAN ST., N.E. • GRAND RAPIDS. M ICHIGAN 49503 • P.O. BOX 2411 PHONE (616) 458-1546 EFFLUENT WATER FOR TURFGRASS IRRIGATION Report on the Clavey Road Project prepared by Dr. David J. Wehner, University of Illinois Credit: The Bullsheet The use of potabie (drinking quality) water for the irriga­ tion of turfgrass stands may be limited in the future because of the increased demands for water by all segments of society. Turfgrass irrigation generally has a low priority or is not even on the list of priorities for distribu­ tion of the water supply. To better prepare for the possibility of a reduced water supply, the turfgrass manager must be aware of management practices that will help conserve water and also be aware of effects on the turfgrass stand when using poorer quality water as an irrigation source. The purpose of this research project was to evaluate the effects of irrigation with effluent water from a wastewater treatment plant on the quality of Kentucky bluegrass, an­ nual bluegrass, and creeping bentgrass turfs. This research was conducted at the North Shore Sanitary District sewage treatment plant on Clavey Road in Deerfield, Illinois. Plots of Kentucky bluegrass, annual bluegrass, and creeping bentgrass were irrigated with either potable water, secondary treated effluent water or final effluent water from the sewage treatment plant. These sources of water differ in the amount of salts, nutrients, and heavy metals that they contain. The potable source is the highest quality of the three while the secondary treated water is the lowest quality. The final effluent water from the Clavey Road treatment plant is normally dumped into the Skokie Canal. If the decision is made to construct 5 some type of distribution system, the final effluent water will be distributed to golf courses for either direct irriga­ tion or for storage in retention ponds for future use in irrigation. During the course of the study, we monitored turfgrass quality and have tested the soil for various nutrients and heavy metals. We have also metered the amount of water being used to irrigate the turfgrass plots. No differences in turfgrass quality due to the use of either the secondary or final effluent water for irrigation were observed during the three years of the study. The total amount of water applied to the plots was approximate­ ly 55 inches. No adverse effects related to the use of the final effluent water for turfgrass irrigation were found. Minor problems that might occur included the clogging of irriga­ tion heads due to the hardness of the water and potential salt problems in poorly drained areas. The clogging pro­ blem can be overcome by routine maintenance of the ir­ rigation system. The salt problem should not occur in most years because rainfall will leach the salts out of the soil profile. In dry years, on areas with poor drainage, applica­ tions of gypsum may be necessary to correct the salt pro­ blem. Gypsum is fairly inexpensive and is used in a man­ ner similar to any fertilizer. The Clavey Road Research Project which has been sponsored by the Chicago District Golf Foundation, the University of Illinois, the North Shore Sanitary District, the Chicagoland Golf Course Superintendents Association and the Midwest Association of Golf Course Superintendents has broken ground for an alternative water source for turfgrass irrigation in our area. Although most of us today have not been faced with a water crisis, let’s face it, our day is coming. STANDARD SAND CORPORATION T O P D R E S S IN G S A N D 2150 USA Sieve 20 30 40 50 60 70 100 140 200 270 PAN MM .84 .60 .42 .30 .25 .21 .15 .10 .07 .05 % Retained .0 .6 4.6 28.5 23.6 24.3 17.6 .8 .0 .0 • Meets USGA specfications • Consistent Quality • Lab Reports with Every Shipment • Michigan’s Largest Topdressing Sand Supplier Standard Sand Corporation P.O. Box 290 Grand Haven, Michigan 49417 Jim Kalsbeek, Sales Manager 616-842-5180 IMAGINE A GOLF COURSE WITHOUT TREES! HELPING KEEP AMERICA GREEN 3 1 0 Marion SW G . R . 4 9 3 0 4 PROTECT YOUR AVAILABLE TREES THROUGH Proper Care Lightening Protection Large Tree Pruning Tree Removals Distributors for: Mauget Tree Injectors & Terra-Sorb Moisturizer Mauget Tree Injectors control Dutch Elm Disease, Bronze Birch Borer, Diplodia Tip Blight on pines, Cytospora Canker on Spruce and nutrient deficiencies FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL Bob Kelly Home: (616) 453-6652 6 DR. HOUSTON COUCH: “ GETTING THE MOST FROM FUNGICIDES” By David R. Aral, Sleepy Hollow Country Club Credit: Tee To Green In 1981, Dr. Couch began research to define procedures necessary for making the most effective spray applications of fungicides. Trials were designed to determine the following: 1. optimum amount of water per 1,000 sq. ft. of turf 2. appropriate nozzle sizes 3. most suitable pressure at the nozzles for the control of turfgrass diseases on fairway and greens. Sclerotinia Dollar Spot: Fungicide Tested Bayleton Chipco 26019 Daconil 2786 Dyrene Rate .25 oz. ai /1000 sq ft 1 oz ai /1000 sq ft 2 oz ai /1000 sq ft 2 oz ai /1000 sq ft Optimum combination for control: nozzle 8002 800050/8002 800050/8002 8002 fungicide Bayleton Chipco 26019 Daconil 2787 Dyrene gallonage 2 0.5,1,2, 4 1 2 Melting Out: Fungicide Tested Rate Chipco 26019 Dyrene Daconil 2787 1 oz ai /1000 sq ft 4 oz ai /1000 sq ft 5.5 oz ai /1000 sq ft Optimum combination for control: fungicide Chipco 26019 Dyrene Daconil 2787 nozzle 8002 any nozzle 8002 gallonage 4 0 5,1,2,8 4 The most effective was Daconil 2787 using the 8002 nozzle at a dilution Tate of 4 gallons water per 1000 sq ft. An additional group of experiments was conducted to determine if variations in nozzle pressure will significant­ ly affect fungicidal effectiveness. All fungicides were ap­ plied with a C02 sprayer fitted with Uni-jet 8002 nozzle tips, and at a dilution rate of 2 gallons of water per 1000 sq. ft. of turf. The only variable was pressure at the noz­ zle. Four pressures were used: 10, 30, 60, and 90 psi. The first set of experiments was designed to test for the relationship between dilution rates, nozzle orifice size, and the efficiency of the fungicide. Applications were made with a C02 pressurized, hand-held sprayer equipped with Unijet flat fan spray tips. Applications were made at a noz­ zle pressure of 30 psi. Tip Size 800050 8002 8006 Gallonages 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 4.0, 8.0, 16.0, 32.0 Rhizoctonia Blight: Fungicide Tested Bayleton Chipco 26019 Daconil 2786 Dyrene Optimum combination for control: nozzle 800050 800050/8002 any 800050 fungicide Bayleton Chipco 26019 Daconil 2787 Dyrene Rate .25 oz. ai /1000 sq ft 1 oz ai /1000 sq ft 2 oz ai /1000 sq ft 2 oz ai /1000 sq ft gallonage 2 0.5 0.5, 1,2, 4, 8 1 The most effective was Daconil 2787 with any of the three nozzles tested at up to 8 gallons water per 1000 sq ft. Fungicides tested on ‘Penneagle’ with Dollar Spot: Fungicide Tested Bayleton Chipco 26019 Dyrene Most effective control: Bayleton Chipco 26019 Dyrene Rate 0.5 oz ai / 1000 sq ft 1 oz ai /1000 sq ft 4 oz ai /1000 sq ft 30, 60, 90 psi 30, 60 psi 60 psi Fungicides tested on ‘Penncross’ with Dollar Spot: Acti-Dione TGF Rubigan Daconil 0.042 oz ai /1000 sq ft 0.2 oz ai / 1000 sq ft 5.5 oz ai /1000 sq ft Most effective control: Acti-Dione TGF Rubigan Daconil 2787 60, 90 psi 30, 60 psi 60 psi This study has shown that in the use of a spray system, there are specific combinations of dilution rate, nozzle tip size, and nozzle pressure combinations at which the various fungicides perform most effectively. 7 Area Sales Rep C & R GRINDING We specialize in ALL golf course equipment repairing and sharpening. Toro Roseman Pick up & Delivery 10 Years Experience Jacobsen Hahn Complete small engine overhauling and tune ups. SAVE BIG $$$$$ with D & C DISTRIBUTORS on Guaranteed Replacement Parts for Jacobsen Toro Hahn Roseman Gang Mowers Aerifier Parts Seals Rotary Mowers Gaskets Excel Cushman Ford Yazoo Greens Mowers Bearings Steering Cables Big Inventory in Stock 5082 Page Ave. Jackson, Ml 49201 Phone (517) 764-1182 Member Michigan Borders Association Western Michgan G.C.S.A. 8 D & C DISTRIBUTORS 51000 Grand River Wixom, Ml 48096 (313) 349-7779 800-824-8769 (Michigan only) Member Michigan Borders Association Western Michigan G.C.S.A. KEIZER EQUIPMENT CO. 364-7031 Bus. Toll Free 1-800-442-2684 2122 Turner, N.W. Grand Rapids, Ml 49506 Brouwer Equipment Bush Hog Mowers Ex Mark Mowers F.M.C. Sprayers Honda Engines Ransome Bobcat Mowers Vicon Fertilizer Spreaders Tractors International Case Allis Chalmers Kubota MOW WITH BROUWER EASY TO TRANSPORT • Positive drive with no wheels and gears. • Simple hydraulic lift design. • Available in 3-5-7 gang models. • Choice of 4-5-6-7 bladed reels. • Produces a consistent uniform cut. • Available in hydraulic or standard lift. • Economical to buy and maintain. FIXED OR FLOATING HEADS AVAILABLE WITH FRONT AND REAR ROLLERS 9 =K= DISTRIBUTORS OF LAWN & GARDEN SUPPLIES PROFESSIONAL TURF & NURSERY SUPPLIES OHI GREENHOUSE & HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES /t\ J. MOLLEMA & SON, INC. 1530 EASTERN AVE SE GRAND RAPIDS. MICH 49507 GORIS B PASSCHIER Turf Specialist PHONE 616-245-0533 =K= HOW TO HIRE A GOOD EMPLOYEE One Step Lawncare, Inc., Rochester, New York IN TEN EASY STEPS Robert E. Ottley Credit: NYSTA Bulletin Finding good employees is an extremely important issue to anyone owning their own business or in the position of hiring and firing personnel. To keep things simple, just remember that all ten steps to hiring a good employee are the same: DO NOT HIRE BAD EMPLOYEES. Many owners of small businesses and personnel managers make the mistake of not thinking through or analyzing their hiring practices. Any poorly worded newspaper ad or application form will do, and then little time is spent in serious interviewing. The results may often be that you have hired what you hope to be a fine worker, but by the time he has been trained, he’s ready for another line of work. If this sounds familiar to you, maybe you should put more effort and time into your hiring practice. After all, an employee is a direct representative of you and your com­ pany, and you want that person to perform his duties in a manner and with the enthusiasm in which you would do the job yourself. Before you start to hire good employees, be prepared so you can easily eliminate the bad. First, define exactly what the job entails. Write out a job description and have a present employee do the same. Have him list all of his duties just to be sure you haven’t forgotten any. You should also have an idea of the salary range and company benefits that are to be offered. Second, have a streamlined application blank. Don’t bother buying a pad of application forms from an office supply or stationery store. These are too general. It takes only a little thought to construct your own, and it will be more relative to your business. Ask the usual questions, such as: name, address, phone number, schooling or train­ ing, physical limitations, previous employers, duties, salaries, and reasons for leaving. Then ask for informa­ tion pertinent to your business, for instance: do you have Four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering and a low center of gravity are key features of the new Jacobsen G-4 x 4 The objective of a light print on turf for the compact machine was further achieved with oversize low-pressure tires, front and rear. More details on the G-4 x 4 are available from Miller West 616/241-4481 10 a driver’s license, can you drive a standard shift transmis­ sion, what equipment can you operate, and list your mechanical abilities. Now that you have a good job description and a per­ sonalized application form, you are prepared for job ap­ plicants. One of the easiest ways to recruit some is through local newspapers. Word your ad carefully. Include the job opening, your company’s name and address and the hours during which interested people may apply. Don’t allow phone calls. It takes little effort to pick up a phone and call about a job, but it does take some initiative to get dressed, find your office, and come in to apply. You may also use the placement offices at area colleges. Make contact by phone or mail, giving a brief description of the job and salary. The office will have interested students get in touch with you. Hiring friends or relatives of present employees usual­ ly works out well. A good employee would not jeopardize his credibility or job by recommending someone who will not put serious effort into his work. After you have finished taking applications, interview the prospective employees twice. The first interview should be done when the applicant finishes filling out your form. Have a pen handy so you can jot down your comments. During this initial meeting, your main objective is to get a feeling for this person’s honesty and ambition. Review all the information on the application to make sure it is complete. Briefly explain the job and its duties and any company rules and policies. This first interview should help you eliminate some of the least qualified applicants. The next step is to check with the remaining applicants’ past employers. This can be done either by mail or phone. If you use the phone, make sure you have your questions ready in advance so as not to waste his time or yours. Try to verify the informa­ tion which was given on the application. Check the dates he worked, what position he held, his salary and how he advanced in the company. Find out if he got along with co-workers and bosses, if he was punctual, if his personal life affected his work, if the company would rehire him, and if he was rated as an excellent, good, fair or poor employee. If you still have a few good possibilities, call these peo­ ple back for a second interview. Explain the job duties again, but in greater detail. Tell the applicant all the bad things about the job so there are no surprises later. It costs too much to train a person only to have him quit because he doesn’t like to work in the rain. Cover his hours, pay scale, benefits, appearance code and how he should con­ duct himself on the job. At this point, if you’re still interested in this person, try some role playing by putting the applicant in a job situa­ tion with yourself as a customer. You can get a pretty good idea as to how he’ll handle a customer by his responses to some of your questions and comments, but remember to keep to basics as the applicant doesn’t know too much about your business as of yet. If after the second interview, you are still interested in the applicant, hire him. After all your effort and care, you will have eliminated the bad candidates, leaving you with the best possible for your particular job opening. Hopefully, you will have hired someone who will go out into the com­ munity and represent you and your company in the pro­ fessional way in which you intended him to. Then this employee is no longer just a person on the payroll, but an asset to your business. 11 SULFUR USE ON GREENS Dr. Norm Hummel Cornell University Credit: Our Collaborator result Soil reaction, or pH, is an important consideration in managing fine turfgrass areas. The pH is a measure of the hydrogen ion concentration in the soil solution. While most turfgrass species tolerate wide range of soil pHs, op­ timum growing conditions exist in a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. At excessively low pHs, the solubility of aluminum and manganese increase to a point where these elements can reach toxic levels in the soil. Excessive alkalinity, or very high pH, can in deficiencies or several micronutrients. Throughout much of New York State, calcareous sands are used to topdress golf course greens. Managing the pH on greens topdressed with these sands has been a major concern of superintendents. Applications of elemen­ tal sulfur are frequently used on an annual or biannual basis to reduce the pH of greens to an optimum range. Sulfur is an effective acidifying amendment thanks to the action of Thiobacillus bacteria that live in the soil. The bacteria obtain their energy from sulfur by oxidizing it in­ to the sulfate form. A by-product of this oxidation process are hydrogen ions that reduce soil pH. Recently, isolated reports of damage from sulfur applica­ tions have surfaced. The symptoms have varied from what looks like an incurable infestation of dollarspot to a general discoloration. Damage has resulted from granular, flowable, and wettable powder forms of sulfur. The dollarspot-type damage caused by granular sulfur may not occur until several months after application. While sulfur still remains a recommended acidifying material perhaps some caution should be exercised when using it. The following are suggested guidelines for using sulfur on bentgrass greens: 1. Do not use sulfur unless soil pH is above 7.5. Believe it or not, you can grow beautiful bentgrass greens on slight­ ly alkaline soils. The use of micronutrients may be necessry as the pH rises much above 7.0. As an alternative to sulfur, acidifying nitrogen fertilizers such as ammonium sulfate may be used. 2. Apply no more than 2 pounds of sulfur per 1,000 square feet per application. 3. Only apply sulfur when temperatures are expected to be cool, preferrably spring and fall. 4. Use a sulfur product the way it was intended to be used. For example, a wettable powder should be sprayed, not broadcast and watered in. Read the label. 5. A wettable powder or flowable sulfur material can be applied more uniformly than granular sulfur. 6. If damage occurs, do not aerify. Aerification will in­ crease microbial activity, including the oxidation of sulfur by Thibacillus bacteria. Aerification may actually increase damage. 7. Once damage occurs, there is nothing known to counteract the symptoms. If you feel compelled to do something, a light application (2 lb./1000 sq. ft.) of hydrated lime may or may not alleviate the problem. Fortunately, damage is not permanent and recovery should be rapid. Nothing cuts like the Ransomes 5 gang reel team RANSOMES Fast-cutting, diesel-powered, all-hydraulic systems save time and money. For information or demonstration, call Rich Hetrick or Ed Stesny, Turf Manager at: Ideal Mower Sales (313) 5 41-4660 811 Woodward Heights Ferndale, Michigan 48220 Motor 350D ■ Kubota 38 HP Diesel ■ All hydraulic driven reels and lifts ■ 24" turning radius and uncut circle ■ 11' 6" width cuts 8 acres per hour If price is your problem, check our Motor 5/3 ■ Ford 27 HP Gas ■ 11' 6" width cuts 6.5 acres per hour Quality doesn't cost, it pays. Special leasing terms available 12 TORO Spartan Distributors, Inc. 208? 13 MILE ROAD, N.W. I P.0. BOX 246 / SPARTA, Ml 49345 / PHONE 616/887-7301 SINGLE POINT ADJUSTMENT REELS — ON THE TORO GREENSMASTER 300 YOUR TORO DISTRIBUTOR FOR WESTERN & NORTHERN MICHIGAN 13 3. 4. 5. PRESIDENT S LATEST TAX PROPOSALS COULD COST CLUBS DEARLY By Gerard Hurley Credit: The Wedge Enactment of President Reagan’s tax proposals “ for fairness, growth and simplicity,” issued on May 29, could be a heavy blow to golf. According to NCA statistics, at least $500 million in golf club revenues would be lost, along with more than 40,000 full time jobs. The average golf club could lose 18-28 percent of its revenue and 10-12 full time jobs, possibly more. The president has proposed to eliminate entirely the deductibility of club dues and other business entertain­ ment expenses. Business meals would be capped at $25 per person per meal, with deductions allowed on 50 per­ cent of any meal expenses beyond that amount. Yes, we are for simplicity and fairness. How can one not be? But golf must oppose being so severely damaged just because the administration wants to adopt a more populist image. The proposals are discriminatory and without justifica­ tion. No other business marketing expense, such as adver­ tising or office decorations, is under attack. The proposals are justified only on the basis of alleged public percep­ tion of abuse; no leader in the administration or congress has produced even an estimate of expense deduction abuse. NCA President Joe Noll hosted a meeting of the Allied Association of Golf, including David Hueber, NGF Presi­ dent, in Washington only hours after the issuance of the proposals. In addition to NCA, other groups represented included PGA, the PGA Tour and CMAA. After a full discussion of the issues and a review by NCA Counsel, Tom Quinn, it was agreed that the golf community must unite behind a nationwide constituent response campaign. NCA will coordinate the campaign from Washington. It is critical that all elements of the golf industry - manufacturers, distributors, pros, superintendents, managers, clubs, golfers - everyone, oppose the specific provisions immediately and repeatedly, by phone, letter and personal visits in the field and in Washington. Unlike the claims of the administration — 1. Current deductibility requirements ARE fair. a. is the risk assumed by These are legitimate business marketing ex­ penses essential for many business or pro­ fessional enterprises. They work! If the expense is unwise and unproductive the marketplace will discipline the spender. Such the entrepreneur. Club dues expenses are no different than those for hiring a “ meeting room” at a downtown hotel. Are we that government bureaucrats and legislators know better than businessmen where and how to invest capital in their pursuit of business? The president said, “ it’s your money.” Then should not businessmen be allowed to invest it as they see fit? to accept b. c. d. e. 2. Current deductibility requirements ARE equitable. a. The right to deduct expenses is open to all. It is not limited to any particular class of 14 b. c. b. b. citizens or those in white shirts, for example. Anyone, (for example, a plumber, carpenter or truck driver) can risk his or her capital and claim such expenses as business deduc­ tions if such expenses are incurred in pur­ suit of more business. income businesses and For moderate business persons, disallowances could reduce the opportunity to employ these time tested marketing techniques while those with greater incomes may continue the practice. Conversely, it IS unfair and inequitable to: a. Treat golf clubs or other segments of the hospitality industry differently from other suppliers of services to business or profes­ sional enterprises. Treat those who are so dependent on business meals, business golf, etc., to meet clients or potential customers (salesmen, stockbrokers, attorneys, etc.), differently from those who use other means to seek business (advertising, free samples, expen­ sively furnished offices, etc.) b. No excessive tax abuses have been documented because of these deductibility provisions. No one has challenged the concept or efficiency of these business marketing expenses because they work. No treasury or congressional data has been a. presented. The deduction of club dues is already carefully limited by the law; no dues can be deducted unless it can be documented that the club is used for business purposes more than 50 percent of the time. No other business entertainment expense deduction is so restricted. There would be negligible revenue benefits from eliminating these deductions while causing enor­ mous losses of revenue and jobs for golf and clubs. a. The treasury projects only $600 million in 1986 revenue gains from all business enter­ tainment deduction (including restaurants, hotels, etc.) The treasury projects only $1.9 billion by 1990 (less than 1 percent of commonly pro­ jected federal deficits at that time). Not only would the golf industry suffer heavy revenue and job losses, the federal government would suffer a decline in payroll taxes of ap­ proximately $198 million lost golf employment alone - cancelling nearly one- third of the projected 1986 revenue gain from eliminating all business entertainment deductions. from All members of congress, particularly the members of the senate finance and house ways and means commit­ tees, and their staff members should hear from you im­ mediately. Manufacturers could alert their field staffs and customers and write themselves; an estimate of your own potential job/tax losses would be of interest, as well. Clubs should ask all members to phone or write letters; pros, superintendents and managers should do likewise. Nothing cuts it on wet turf like the 213D Fairway Vac RANSOMES Exclusive high vac action lets you cut and remove clippings even under dampest conditions! Tri-Plex floating reels Individual instant hydraulic reel lift controls Hydrostatic transmission 7-ft. cutting width 18-cu. ft. collector capacity Vac attachment has 8 H.P.I.C. Briggs-Stratton with 2.5 warranty Special leasing terms available 21 H.P. diesel water-cooled 15 For information or demonstration, call Rich Hetrick or Ed Stesney, Turf Manager, at: (313) 5 4 1 -4 6 6 0 IDEAL MOWER SALES 811 Woodward Heights Ferndale, Michigan 48220 RECORDS - ARE YOURS UP TO DATE? David Behrman Deer Creek Golf Club Credit: The Bullsheet As golf rolls into mid-season it may be necessary for many of us to take a good look and see if we are main­ taining our office files as well as our golf courses. Although we are aware of the importance of records, some items may slip by while we give our full attention to the mainstay of our business - growing grass. So, here are a few items one might want to make sure are being included in your records. First and most important are records of fertilizer and pesticide applications. These records should include the following: when the material was applied, what the material was, where is was applied, how much was us­ ed, and finally make a short notation as to why the ap­ plication was made at this point in time. I would like to stress the point that this information should be recorded for every fertilizer, fungicide, herbicide, or insecticide ap­ plication made anywhere on the grounds of your golf course. Do not neglect to keep track of the rough, the clubhouse lawn, or an open area that is not in play. Secondly, review your equipment maintenance records. These records might include the following items: the date any maintenance was performed, what parts were replac­ ed or repaired, who performed the maintenance, and how long it took to complete the repair. One last item that is not as important, but may prove valuable, is making a note of who the operator was at the time of the breakdown; especially if your machinery is driven by more than one operator. ---------------------------------------------------- \ New from ProTurt... Scotts offers disease control you can spray! Call your Tech Rep for details. Jim Bogart Senior Technical Representative 66 Gibralter Road Rockford, Michigan 49341 Phone: 616/866-9389 16 Serving you better ■ ' V With QUALITY MALLINCKRODT LEWIS FORE PAR CLEARY COUNTRY CLUB CHICOPEE Upjohn FOX VALLEY Chipco d ia m o n d s h a m r o c k Yankee P B I Gordon Aquatrols Turfgrass Products PanaSea c y c l o n e SOUTH LYON, MICHIGAN 48178 Phone- Area 313 437-1427 GENE JOHANNINGSMEIER »i A i awj j E-Z-GO TEXTRON PO Box 588, M arvin-Griffin Road Augusta, Georgia 50915-2699 ELLIS SALES, live. 6915 WEST MICHIGAN AVENUE KALAMAZOO, MICHIGAN 49009 (616) 375-3535 OTTERBINE® Fountains will make your members proud of their beautiful Golf Course .. Other Benefits: ■ Clean Up Algae Problems - Save Chemical Costs. ■ Reduce Pond and Lake Odor ■ Enhance Natural Life -To Reduce Fish Kill. Also applicable for Parks and Lake Residents CENTURY Rain Aid 31691 Dequindre Madison Hts., Ml 48071 3 1 3 /5 8 8 -2 9 9 2 22159 Telegraph Southfield, Ml 48034 3 1 3 /3 5 8 -2 9 9 4 SISCO TURF 1312 N. Campbell Royal Oak, Ml 48067 3 1 3 /3 9 8 -9 5 5 2 17 Century’s Grand Valley Sprinkler 3400 Jefferson S.E. Grand Rapids, Ml 49508 6 1 6 /4 5 2 -3 3 7 3 Another important area is employee work records. The superintendent should know when his employees work­ ed, how long there were there, and ideally what jobs they performed on a daily basis. In addition to these categories one can expand into more detailed data to be used in streamlining costs or to justify expenditures. These records would contain more specific details of work operations, such as: job performed, man hours involved, equipment used, gasoline consumption, and material costs if any. I have touched on some very basic ideas concerning record keeping. Obviously this can be expanded upon many times over, however, the value of records as a tool in our profession should never be overlooked. Evaluation of records can aid in solving or preventing recurring pro­ blems with your turfgrass. Records can indicate the need to replace old quipment or justify purchasing time saving new machinery. Employee records are valuable in giving proper recognition and compensation to quality employees or in verifying the need to reprimand or replace one that’s performing poorly. And last but not least, records are a source for answers. Answers to your problems and to those endless questions posed by your owner or members whatever the case may be. So, invest a little time and keep your records current. You will find the benefits are as unlimited as the record you can keep. INDUSTRIAL • COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL WELLS and PUM PS 4 " and LARGER PU M P SALES & SERVICE DEEP WELL TURBINE & SUBMERSIBLE 4" RESIDENTIAL WELLS GIVEN SPECIAL ATTENTION FAST ROTARY DRILLING n SOIL TEST BORING & ANALYSIS EARTH RESISTIVITY SURVEYS ENGINEERED GROUND WATER SUPPLIES WE SPECIALIZE IN GOLF COURSE WELLS & PUMPS 3311 3 MILE RD. 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ORNAMENTAL FUNGICIDES Controls a broad range of diseases on turf grasses and ornamentals • BANOL™ TURF AND ORNAMENTAL FUNGICIDE Controls pythium and phytophthora • PROXOL' 80SP INSECTICIDE Controls white grubs, sod webworms, cutworms and armyworms in fine turf. WNOR-AM NORAM CHEMICAL COMPANY Wilm»ngton OE 19603 THE FAIRWAY CLASSICS to keep your course in top condition DON MASKE, District Manager Specialty Chemicals Group RESIDENCE: 541 Heritage Lane, Lockport, IL 60441 (815) 838-8164 YAMAHA When you know how they’re built. BOYLANS, THE WORLD’S LARGEST DISTRIBUTOR OF GOLF CARS! 1 YAMAHA GOLF CAR YAMAHAULER TURF WORKER HOME OFFICE: 607 NORTH MAIN ST.. PLAlNWELL, MICHIGAN 49080 PHONE 616-685-6828 19 For demonstration call: Lawn Equipment Corporation (313) 348-8110 46845 W. 12 MILE ROAD NOVI, MICH. 48050 P.0. BOX 500 (313) 348-8110 Roseman Hydraulic Driven Reels, Lift & Fold 4 Blade Rough Mowers or 6 & 8 Blade Fairway Units If we may be of any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. ‘WESTERN VIEWS’ 17501 • 148th Street Spring Lake, Ml 49456 L-Hap i n MSU Libraries Bulk Rate U.S. Postage PAID Permit #981 Spring Lake, Ml