Golf Central Magazine -Vol 21 Issue 6

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header from the publisher

Volume 21, Issue 6 Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates Graphic Design: Melahn Cable, Photojournalists: Greg and Beverly Wise Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr. International Correspondent: Dove Jones Inflluencer/Ambassador: Chad Smith Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Greg Wise, Bob Bolton, Greg Corbo, Elisa Gaudet, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Ron Heller, Rich Styles, Fred Seely, Deb Shuck, JL Quebbeman, Linda Williams-Sieg Editor Emeritus: Joel Jackson, CGCS Retired Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, Founder-Georgia Golf Trail

Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by:

Dimples and Wrinkles While 20/20 vision is in your rear view and in hindsight, some of the aftermath of the not-so-perfect storm remains. Everything we have done in years past continues.

We are not done- we are still evolving!!

We are learning how to play the game, increase revenue and keep everything in shape and on course.

Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 1549 Warrington Court, Winter Springs, FL 32708

NEW PHONE: 321.765.7550 E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com ©2020 Golf Central Magazine. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without the prior written permission of the Publisher.

Editorial contributions are welcome, but Golf Central Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited proposals, manuscripts and photographs. All materials submitted not accompanied by a selfaddressed stamped envelope will not be returned. Mailing, electronic mailing or faxing of contributions constitutes an expressed warrant on the part of the contributor that all material is original and does not infringe on the rights of others. Golf Central Magazine retains all reprint rights and reserves the right to edit any submitted material to meet our specifications for publishing and or use in advertising or promotion. The Publisher and staff are not responsible for any loss or grievance by any person or persons whatsoever, due in any way or in part to the content of this publication. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse to accept any material deemed inappropriate or in bad taste.

What did we learn about the industry in 2020? Will bunkers without rakes and putting without the flag stick in become long term practices?

The most candid columnist in the industry answers these questions in his audio version of the Grainy Awards. Listen to Tim Morgahan- (https:// www.golfcourseindustry.com/video/greens-with-envy-news-roundup).

My message from the Universe reminded me that the masses of people often take it upon themselves to “be the difference” in the lives of others... without asking anyone to do it for them. I have hope that the days are not far off when they’ll do as much for themselves.

No matter what your faith is or is not, no matter what course you are on, this year we at Golf Central want to be glimmer in your trap, the wedge out of your bunker, and the tough in your rough. With each fairway you find, each green in one, every knuckle you bump, we’ll be here reaching out to every beginner, purist and all the hackers with great Turf Life feelings to last throughout the year. Hopefully that was enough cleverness for the judges of my Letter…and you know who you are TS. I love you, I always have, and I always will.

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 6

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Wide Open Beaches

Fairways For Miles Known for action-packed racing and world-famous beaches, Daytona Beach also offers savvy golfers challenging courses at exceptional value. Come and play where the pros play, at LPGA International and other unique courses. Savor local seafood along scenic waterways. Explore historical and cultural sites.

And pair your golf outing with a range of coastal accommodations to create a perfect package.

To learn more, visit DaytonaBeach.Golf

LPGA International

Volume 21, Issue 6 Cart Girl 20 Tamara Bruno

12

Cuisine on the Green 18 Peter Hakansson

GOLF BALL CHAIR

FEATURE 10 Dimple Chair Golf Bachelor 24 Alec Chandlee Golf Bachelorette 14 Isabella Doub Golf Business 19 Troon

...desig ed for all o and lovenrs lf Butt of bold G design! s

Golf travel 26 Top of the Rock 38 North Carolina Guys Golf Trip

W W W . G O L F C E N T R A L M A G . C O M

Feature A

rticle Pg 1

Living on the Links 16 Champion Hills 30 Golf Life Navigators Private Times 22 The Club at Ibis Special Events 40 Festivals of Speed-Jekyll Island Stay & Play 32 St. James Bay

40 16

Tennessee Golf Central 36 Knoxville Municipal Golf Club Turf Life 48 Not So Superintendent 50 Glen Thompson 52 Sunniland Super Spotlight: Steve Keller 54 Audubon International 56 Ducks Unlimited 58 TruGreen 60 GCSAA Women in Golf 44 Kemper Sports

Departments 42 43 46

South Florida PGA North Florida PGA Freddy's Fairway Thoughts

golfcentralmag.com

22

0

Legendary Lifestyle

There’s a reason Gary Player chose Boca Grove to be his first American home and it’s not just because he made history here.

Legends don’t make tee times and neither will you Located in the heart of Boca Raton, Florida | Limited Number of Non-Resident Memberships Available Contact Valerie at (561) 487-5300 ext 132 | vroca@bocagrove.org | www.bocagrove.org

feature 10

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

11

leader on the links

Mark Beattie’s American Dream Growing up in Newport

, Mark Beattie was a lively, busy kid who was always running around and playing outside on the streets of this town in South Wales.

Two adjectives that describe Mark well and, even at the age of 40, are taking him from one side to the other side of the world.

Mark comes from a family of sportsman’s: his father, Alex Beattie played football (soccer) for Newport County, so did his uncle and grandfather. Mark started gravitating towards the sport of golf at the age of 12. He would spend most afternoons at the golf course practicing and learning the game. At 18 he was employed at the Celtic Manor Golf Club in Newport as a trainee professional. After completing his PGA qualifications, Beattie decided to try his skill at playing the game professionally. By then, his parents have moved to Cocoa Beach, Florida, where he could spend the UK winter months playing in all the tournaments he could get in to hone his skills.

After several years of playing on mini tours, between Euro Pro Tour and the Challenge Tour, Mark one day drastically changed his direction and ended up in South Africa at the age of 25. He went there on holiday to visit a friend from Wales; he arrived there with a set of golf clubs and a suitcase, and decided to stay for good. “The weather was just too good and so was the golf” he says. He promptly realized that his ‘holiday status’ would be succumbed by the draining of his finances, so he adventured himself in a couple of businesses from 2005 to 2009. His passion for golf was always there though; he started recognizing gaps in the market and decided to put all his bids into a new career of entrepreneurship within the golfing industry.

In 2010 Mark attended to the PGA Merchandising show in Orlando for the first time. It would be a great opportunity to meet industry related people, brands and business opportunities. He got the exclusive distribution of various golf brands over the years. His first representation was Luca Sunscreen, a specialized sunscreen for sports. And that’s how he started growing his business 12

Mark, Xavier, and Maria in South Africa, making the PGA show a regular trip in the following years.

He was involved with brands like Zeus Range Finders Batteries, BOB bikes, and eventually PowerBug Electric Golf Trolleys which became instrumental in his move the United States today.

In 2017, he met Bart Fokke (owner and CEO of Pitchfix) at the PGA Show.

They had a great connection through their common passion: Golf. Mark enthusiastically took the Pitchfix brand into the South African market. In just over two years Mark would have sold more than 20,000 divot repair tools. His sales performance and business drive caught Bart’s attention even more.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world, something had changed.

His father (who’d have been living in Florida for the past 25 years) was also diagnosed with stage 4 multiple myeloma cancer. In this very difficult environment of uncertainty, Mark and his wife (oh yes, he is married by now,

with a Mexican lady, Maria, who he met on a plane, believe it or not!) realized that being away from family is tough, but seeing the business that you love and you worked so hard for suffering is also hard. So, they decided to take a leap of faith into the land of opportunities and try to achieve the so acclaimed “American Dream”.

They have been on a 6-month journey to get into the U.S. through a pandemic with red tape on traveling and visas, and with a small family on board.

Xavier, Mark and Maria’s son, is 2 years old also loves playing football and golf.

Mark’s huge enthusiasm and commitment to the brands who have faith in him (Powerbug, Dimple Designed and Pitchfix) are not affected by this pandemic, or by the fact that his father has sadly recently passed away. He is determined to make this work, to represent these amazing brands with pride and hard work in the American market, who has warmly welcomed him.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

GREEN ESSENTIALS THAT EVERY CLUB NEEDS IN 2021

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Shallow Hole

golf bachelorette

Isabella Doub Where were you born? Did you grow up there? I was Born in Sun Valley Idaho but relocated to Santa Barbara, CA when I was 4.

What do you do for a living? I’m one of the Assistant Pros at Timacuan Golf and Country Club.

What would you like to do for a living? I Would love to be a Teaching Professional.

Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? I love to travel and if I’m not traveling, hangout with my friends.

What golf apparel do you like to wear? I’m a huge fan of Adidas, I think they have the most stylish golf apparel.

Tell us about your first kiss? It was my freshman year of high school and I was about to go into 3rd period when all of the sudden Cole leans over and kisses me in front of everyone! And I wiped it off with the sleeve of my jacket!

Steak, chicken, or seafood? I would say steak, but seafood is a close 2nd.

What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? A knife, music and a lifetime supply of food and wine.

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people 14

demonstrate on the golf course? When people do not fix their ball marks on the green!

Name the three most important things to you in this world. Family, Happiness, and Self-Love!

What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? My Father, Bill Murray, Justin Thomas Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails? I love a good night at home, but I do really enjoy being able to get a drink with my friends.

Favorite comedian? Bert Kreischer What does golf mean to you? Golf is a very special game to me; regardless of what kind of mood I’m in I can go on the course and be able to clear my mind.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

living on the links

By Shane Sharp

Champion Hills Clubhouse

Tom Fazio’s Mountain Masterpiece Awaits at Champion Hills in Western North Carolina Western North Carolina is one of the

14 holes are predominantly level and downhill.

Southeast’s best kept secrets when

So enamored with mountain golf

it comes to golf travel. But word has

in general, and North Carolina high-

spread that it’s a wonderful place for

lands golf, specifically, Fazio chose

golfers to retire, semi-retire or simply

Hendersonville (where he also lived

relocate to enjoy the good life. The stun-

while working on Champion Hills) for

ning Blue Ridge Mountains of the Old

his office and nearby Lake Toxaway

North State are home dozens of private

for his summer home.

golf communities and several of the

Golfweek recently Champion

country’s highest-ranked courses.

Hills No. 64 on its list of the Top 200

Champion Hills in charming Hendersonville is a classic case in point.

Nearly built-out and fully amenitized, this residential enclave is situated in the heart of the “Ville to Ville” pipeline spanning Greenville, S.C. to Asheville. Having recently celebrated its 30th anniversary, the iconic community is ideally positioned for the current luxury real estate market upswell brought on by the mass exodus from America’s dense urban areas.

Fazio’s Mountain Masterpiece For golfers used to flat-land courses, 16

Residential Golf Courses in the U.S., a Champion Hills’ Tom Fazio-designed

true testament to the staying power

mountain masterpiece offers a dramatic

of one of Fazio’s seminal designs.

change of pace – and scenery. Fazio’s

A Welcoming Community

brilliant routing pitches and rolls through heavily forested hills, deep ravines and cool mountain streams.

He and his all-star team of shapers deftly pulled ridges into valleys and filled hollows to create “playing platforms” that provide golfers with level lies amid 350-feet of elevation change. As a result, only six holes feature uphill terrain while

Champion Hills boasts a broad array of residential options – luxury homes, low maintenance cottages, lock-andleave villas and a limited number of building lots – suiting a wide variety of buyers. With the housing supply near a two-decade low, buyers appreciate being able to source a move-in ready home that checks all the boxes.

With a diverse mix of resale Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

homes, buyers can also find the mix

surprised by how much home they

of floorplan, finishes and outdoor

can afford in one of Western North

amenities they seek. If not, money

Carolina’s most exclusive mountain

saved by going with an existing resale

communities. Building lots typi-

can be invested in renovations and

cally range from .5 up to 1.5 acres,

upgrades. On the other hand, those

with prices from $50,000 to $300,000.

retaining their current residence have

Move-in ready luxury residences

ample time to engage a builder for a

range from $500,000 to $3 million

custom-built home.

featuring golf course, mountain and

New residents are often pleasantly

wooded views.

Membership Has its Privileges The member-owned golf club, operated

by Troon, offers full-equity and 12-month trial memberships. Both include full access to golf, dining, the wellness center, pool, spa and tennis courts. Most residents are either golf or social members.

Full golf members have access to Troon Privé, which grants them entry to 250 of the nation’s top private and resorts courses in the Troon network.

“Our members are well-traveled, and they appreciate being able to visit other parts of the country and play at worldclass facilities,” says General Manager Dana Schultz. “For our members who have homes elsewhere, Troon has a wide-variety of courses they can experience, often in proximity to their other seasonal residence.”

The saying around Champion Hills is “visit for a day, stay for a lifetime.”

As more and more people discover the allure of Western North Carolina, this moniker holds especially true.

For more information about Champion

Champion Hills Luxury Home Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Hills, visit info.championhills.com/gc.

17

cuisine on the green Over the years I have collected, modified and created recipes steeped in tradition from my homeland of Sweden to my new home in Texas. My love of food and cooking has been a lifelong adventure that began with mymother, Ilmi. My mother’s cooking influenced me heavily and hers was influenced by both Swedish and Estonian cuisine.

I stayed in The United States after receiving a swimming scholarship to study at University of Houston. In 1984, after receiving a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, I worked in several restaurants in the Houston area. I still continue to create dishes and cook for friends and family, learning to cater meals at small gatherings and free-lancing to help out other restaurant owner/chefs in the industry kept my skills fresh. Though I am currently a Realtor, my happy place is in the kitchen creating for friends and family.

This collection literally comes from my kitchen drawer. A place where my favorite recipes are kept-scribbled down on a napkin, taken from a magazine and modified, printed or passed down from family and friends. I hope you enjoy my collection.

Smaklig måltid!

To purchase: https://store.bookbaby. com/book/MY-FAVORITE-COLLECTIONOF-DISHES $10 discount Coupon code DISH2021..

Helle Fish Prep time: 20 min Cook time: 30 min Ready in: 50 min Serves: 6

INGREDIENTS 1 salmon fillet, cut into 1-2 inch pieces 2 yellow onions, diced 3 carrots, shredded 1 Tbsp, minced garlic 1 qt seafood stock or seafood bullion with 1 qt water 18

1 cup cream cheese Salt and Pepper to taste DIRECTIONS Cover onions, carrots and garlic with the seafood stock in a pot and let it simmer untill tender.

Add the cut up pieces of salmon and cook an additional 3-4 minutes.

Add salt and pepper.

Turn off heat and stir in cream cheese.

Serve over rice or orzo.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

golf business

Troon Acquires Indigo Golf Partners

The Ocean Course at Hokuala in Kauai, Hawaii Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.; Jacksonville, Fla.; Birmingham, Ala.; Seattle, Wash.; New Braunfels, Texas; and Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Troon, already the world’s largest golf management company, substantially increases its portfolio of facilities with

Troon, the world’s largest golf management company, acquired Indigo Golf Partners, the company formerly known as Billy Casper Golf. The acquisition was announced on January 4th.

Troon Golf, Troon Privé, Honours Golf,

the acquisition of Indigo Golf Partners

OB Sports and more. In addition to its

– the company now provides managed

global headquarters in Scottsdale, Ariz.,

services at 585-plus locations around

Troon now has offices in Reston; New-

the globe, including managing 630-plus

ton, Mass.; Chicago, Ill.; Irvine, Calif.;

18-hole equivalent golf courses.

Indigo Golf Partners is one of the largest golf course management companies in the United States. The company owns and operates more than 160 golf courses, country clubs and resorts in 29 states, including 20 facilities in Florida, four in North Carolina and two in Georgia. Members and guests of Indigo-managed facilities will continue to experience the same outstanding service, incredible course conditions and excellent food and beverage options.

Current plans call for the Indigo Golf Partners office in Reston, Va. to continue and support managed-clubs throughout Troon’s full family of brands, including Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

St. Johns Golf & Country Club, St. Augustine 19

cart girl

Tamara Bruno Where did you grow up?

I was born in Cornwall NY, raised in Virginia Beach, VA, and now live in Daytona Beach.

Which group of people did you associate most with in high school?

Outgoing, outdoorsy, down-to-earth type of people.

What do you feel makes this club special?

Daytona Beach Golf Club makes me feel special because everyone who works there is so loving, Helpful, and fun. It’s like I have an extended family and I would like them to know I really am appreciative and thankful for all the help and support plus can’t beat the scenery and wildlife.

If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing?

I’ve been a hairstylist by trade for 40 years and I love it . When I moved to Florida, creating the beverage cart job was a great way to find potential clients

What is your memorable moment working as a cart girl?

the South Course. The golfer immediately stripped down butt naked, jumped in the pond to rescue the cart.

What type of music do you prefer?

My taste is very versatile, but I grew up listening to the 80’s.

What hobbies do you enjoy?

Yoga, walking the beach, traveling and exploring the world.

Favorite comedian?

Sebastian Maniscalco. I’m Italian and can relate.

Favorite type of movie?

I like funny, feel good movies, and documentaries.

Favorite charity to support?

Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s because I had relatives who suffered.

Watching the excitement of a player when he made a hole in one.

What else would you like for us to know about you?

What is the funniest thing you’ve ever seen on the golf course?

I would like to thank the magazine for making me cart girl of the month!!! And a big Thank You to all the golfers at Daytona Beach Golf Club and Wormburner’s Grill & Bar for making this happen!

The remote hand cart that got away on hole 1 on 20

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

21

private times

Prestigious Platinum Club Of America Status AND Distinguished Club Award

22

“The club’s Board, management and

Platinum Club status is awarded

staff are thrilled with this announce-

to clubs in five categories: Country

ment,” said The Club at Ibis’s General

Club, Golf Club, City Club, Athletic Club

Manager/COO Stephen J. LoGiudice. “Be-

and Yacht Club. The Club at Ibis was

ing named a Platinum Clubs is the most

recognized as one of the top 150 private

respected recognition in private club

country clubs in the nation and select-

excellence. We are constantly challeng-

ed these seven criteria requirements:

ing ourselves on how we can improve

Universal Recognition; Excellence in

The Club at Ibis is honored to an-

our member experience, and we believe

Amenities and Facilities; Caliber of Staff

nounce it has again been awarded

we have again done so.”

and Professional Service Levels; Quality

Platinum Club of America status in the

and Commitment of Leadership; Gov-

2021-2022 rankings of private clubs in

of America recognizes the top 5 per-

ernance & Prudent Fiscal Management;

the U.S. It marks the 6th year the Club

cent of private clubs in the nation, as

Adapting to Changing Times; and The

at Ibis is ranked among the top 150

elected by Club Managers, Presidents,

Overall Experience.

country clubs in America.

and Owners, using criteria approved

by its Advisory Board, which is com-

awarded the prestigious Distinguished

nized as the most revered acknowledg-

prised of 15 Club Managers from some

Club award for Residential Coun-

ment in the Private Club Industry. The

of the most respected private clubs in

try Clubs for the third consecutive

Club at Ibis was ranked at No. 56.

America.

year, as determined by the annual

Platinum Clubs of America is recog-

Established in 1997, Platinum Clubs

The Club at Ibis also has been

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Distinguished Clubs award program

including being viewed as in the top

Legend Course by golfing great Jack Nick-

conducted by BoardRoom magazine, one

echelons of local and regional reputation

laus. The Club at Ibis is the only Club in

of the most respected trade publications

and recognition.

the U.S. to have three Nicklaus-family

serving private clubs and the official

designed championship golf courses and

publication of the Association of Private

$47 million in renovations and facil-

is the home of top instructor Martin Hall

Club Directors. This comes with special

ity enhancements, including an 80,000

of Golf Channel fame, and on the courts,

recognition, giving Ibis the “Elite” desig-

square-foot Clubhouse, a Sports Village,

former US Men’s Olympic Coach and

nation, after meeting additional criteria,

aquatics center, and a redesign of their

Davis Cup player, Jay Berger.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

The Club at Ibis recently completed

23

Alec Chandlee

golf bachelor

Where were you born? Did you grow up there?

I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and lived there for only a few months. We then moved to Dubuque, Iowa and I grew up there.

Is “acting your age” overrated?

I don’t think so, it can be fun to let loose and be a little childish from time to time. But there’s a time and place for everything.

What do you do for a living?

I’m currently a college student. I had the opportunity to attend a golf academy in Florida so I am now doing both school and golf.

What would you like to do for a living?

I am going to school for accounting and Spanish. I’m not exactly sure what I want to do yet. Starting my own business is something I want to do in the future.

Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation?

I love spending time on the water during the summer: skiing and wakeboarding. Really anything outside whether it’s hiking, traveling, or playing basketball.

What golf apparel do you like to wear?

I wear a bunch of different brands; some of my favorites are Nike, Travis Mathew, and Peter Millar.

Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty?

Ariana Grande because she’s obviously gorgeous and has a great voice. She also supports the Make-a-Wish Foundation and my cousin Triston was a Make-a-Wish kid when he had cancer.

Steak, chicken, or seafood?

I’ve got to go with steak on this one. It’s always been one of my favorite foods. Being from the Midwest there’s nothing better than a good steak.

What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island?

7 iron, a bag of golf balls, Caddyshack Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why?

I’d probably have to go with Paige Spiranac. She can play golf and would give me a run for my money.

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course?

My biggest pet peeve on the golf course is when people apologize for not playing well. There seems to be a stigma around golf that it can only be fun if you are good. But I think people need to appreciate playing and just enjoy being outside having a good time.

Name the three most important things to you in this world.

Family. Friends. Happiness Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money 24

to keep yourself happy?

Success. Success can apply to many different areas of life. It can mean being successful on the golf course, at your job, being a good person, and much more.

What three people would you most like to play within your fantasy golf foursome?

Very tough question. Definitely, Tiger Woods, I’d have to put Phil Mickelson in there, too. Lastly, I think Michael Jordan would make for a fun round.

What are some of your great accomplishments?

Some of my greatest accomplishments are learning Spanish and becoming fluent. A golf accomplishment I have is while in high school I qualified for the state tournament.

Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails?

A night out. Getting dinner at a tapas restaurant and going out afterward to a nightclub that’s poppin til 4.

Favorite comedian?

There are a few that I really enjoy. Eddie Murphy, Kevin Hart, but my favorite has to be Daniel Tosh.

Movies:…comedy, drama, action, romance?

Action and Drama movies are my go-to. Some of my favorite movies are anything directed by Quentin Tarantino.

Photo by Greg Corbo Last book you read?

Shoe Dog by Phil Knight. It was a great read and I would definitely recommend it.

News, current events; hardcopy or on-line?

I prefer online, I think it’s much easier to use, and I’m able to find much more information from a variety of sources.

Favorite magazine?

Golf Central Magazine!

Favorite charity to support?

The American cancer society is an organization I am very passionate about. It’s something that has hit close to home and I enjoy supporting it. I also enjoy supporting Homes of Hope. I’ve built multiple homes with the organization and made many great friendships.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

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golf travel

By Greg & Beverly Wise

Top of hte Rock 1st Hole

Top of Your Bucket List for 2021 After a weekend trip to Branson, Missouri for a conference and having time for a quick ride South of town to Ridgedale… we found the Top of the Rock and it’s overwhelming connection to golf, outdoors and the history of the Ozarks.

Upon arriving at the Top of the Rock Welcome Center… our first adventure began with the Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail Cart Tour. An unforgettable two and a half-mile journey on an electric cart to explore the Top of the Rock Lost Canyon and Nature Trail. Dramatic rock formations, waterfalls and views of Table Rock Lake create this “Must Do” adventure. Yes we even made at stop at the Bat Bar inside the cave for a fresh glass of lemonade.

Inspired by a deep desire to connect people to nature, Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, set out to create one of the greatest golf experiences in the country. Incorporating the beauty

Greg Wise of the Ozarks into every shot, while growing the game. Big Cedar Lodge is quickly becoming known as America’s Great Golf Destination, with NATURE’S FINEST™ courses designed by some of the top names in golf: Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, Gary Player, Tom Fazio, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. Golf at Big Cedar is an experience you will never forget!

Beverly & Greg Wise at Heart Rock

26

Top of the Rock Golf Course, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, is the first-ever par-3 course to be included in a professional championship. Arnie’s Barn, a magnificent 150-year-old barn relocated from Arnold Palmer’s backyard in Latrobe, PA. It also houses the Top of the Rock Pro Shop.

Buffalo Ridge - transformed with the guiding hands of visionary conservationist Johnny Morris and renowned golf course architect Tom Fazio. Morris and Fazio have redesigned the course layout to bring players in close contact with nature, native grasses and freeranging North American bison.

Mountain Top Course - Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris teamed with World Golf Hall of Fame legend Gary Player to create a world-class 13-hole short course that delivers an unparalleled experience for golfers. The course routes through unforgettable rock formations and includes some of the most dramatic views in the Ozarks while delivering a rewarding experience for all skill levels. Warning… This is a walking course only and is perfect course for the Hickory Club players.

Ozarks National, Missouri’s first and only golf course designed by architect duo Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. Measuring 7,036 yards from the back tees, Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

the course represents the terrain of the Ozarks with beautiful views.

The 18-hole layout features challenging carries and a variety of visually appealing approach shots that are highlighted by the native habitat. The course also includes interesting features, such as a 400-foot wooden beam and plank bridge, which connects the tee box and fairway of the 13th hole that stands 60-feet above a flowing creek.

Payne’s Valley - Paying tribute to Ozarks-native and World Golf Hall of Fame member, Payne Stewart, this is the first public-access golf course designed by 82-time PGA TOUR winner Tiger Woods and Woods-led golf course design firm, TGR Design. Payne’s Valley will stand out with its inviting layout, pristine water features, large fairways and greens, and spectacular 19th hole… the Big Rock at Payne’s Valley™.

It’s time to make your plans for a visit to Top of the Rock in 2021.

Beverly & Greg Wise

Payne Valley Panaorama Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

27

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Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

As a resident of Boca Raton, located in the highly desirable county of Palm Beach, for the past 28 years, my countless years of experience has allowed me to become well educated of the local housing market. I am proud to say that I am paired up with an industry leader, The Keyes Company, in Boca Raton; where you will benefit from our stellar reputation, commitment to present clients with smart choices, better planning, faster timing and fewer hassles. I represent traditional values combined with modern innovation. Whether you are looking to buy or sell, I can happily assist you achieve your real estate goals. With my attention to detail and deadlines, it is my goal to make transactions as smooth and stress free as possible. Every client, buyer, seller, investor, and renter are treated with the upmost respect, where communication is key. My expertise ranges from luxury waterfront properties to golf and country clubs to first time home buyers to those relocating from up north.

Born and raised in Queens, New York, it is in South Palm Beach County, where I call home. My education consists of a Summa Cum Laude Master Degree with a concentration in Business Management (MBA), an undergraduate degree in Pre-Law and I am a published writer on the topic of Marketing. I bring with me close to 20 years of experience in Financial Management, Sales, Accounting and now, I am a proud licensed REALTOR. I am a persistent, loyal and hard-working individual. In my free time, my enjoyments are family, cooking, going to the beach and working out.

South Florida has a booming housing market and is the most popular destination for homebuyers worldwide. The Sunshine-State, is tax friendly, has a diverse and dynamic economy and year-round temperatures in the 80’s. For all these reasons and more, I am, along with my team at Keyes Company, committed to making my client’s dreams come true, form long term relationships and turn clients into family.

Nellie Balian, MBA REALTOR 954-821-3703

Nelliebalian78@gmail.com Nelliebalian@keyes.com

 � � �����

By Jason Becker, CEO of Golf Life Navigators

living on the links

Buyer Sentiment Shifts Toward Home Purchases in Gated Golf Communities prospective members - who used GLN to search for a private club - intended to live outside the gates of a golf community. This was a significant trend that had us concerned as we are sensitive to the above-mentioned metric of “capture rate” for the benefit of clubs across the golf industry. However, after studying buyer trends - post the emergence of COVID - we are seeing a dramatic shift in buyer sentiment toward the purchase of a home inside the gates of a golf community. As of today, that number has reached 64% of all prospective members seeking a home in a

We’ve all read the stories and seen the graphs the past 6 months, golf has never been more popular. But outside of daily play, what are future private club members saying about the transition from North to South? Once more, where do they want to live?

At Golf Life Navigators (GLN), we are fortunate to have a crystal ball of sorts to peek into the future of the marketplace for private club memberships.

Generally, we know what the market and demand will look like 6-12 months ahead of where it is today. What we are seeing in 2021? A significant surge in consumer demand for private club lifestyle, golf and real estate in the Sunbelt.

“Comparing the 3rd and 4th quarters of 2019 vs. 2020, membership tours are up 50%,” says A.J. Szymanski, Director of Sales & Marketing at The Nest at Pelican’s Landing in Bonita Springs, Florida.

“After the real estate market balances itself from extraordinary low inventory levels, our team anticipates setting records for new membership sales in 2021. Even after an increase in initiation fee, demand is through the roof.”

Szymanski went on to say that in the second half of 2020, 90% of the club’s

gated community – a 13% shift in less

new members purchased a home within

than 9 months. In short, this is a great

the gates of his club community. This

sign for gated golf communities and

is a key metric for most club com-

their efforts to increase capture rate.

munities as there is always a desire

When asked “why?”, most buy-

to increase capture rate of resident

ers say they are now seeking a home

vs. golf member. In recent years, the

in a safe, secure and controlled en-

average capture rate for club com-

vironment due to the shifts in soci-

munities has been between 40-50%

ety and life in 2020. Will this trend

(based upon 799 or fewer residences).

last or is it just a result of the recent

Prior to Covid (and 2020 in general)

times? At GLN, we believe it is going

our team watched closely as 51% of

to last for the foreseeable future.

About Golf Life Navigators – GLN is an online resource for golf enthusiasts to comfortably search for their ideal private club, community and/or golf home. To learn more about GLN visit www.golflifenavigators.com.

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Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Ray Allen Michael PeĂąa

nd ions a s are p m a ch ie LPGA lass celebrit ble c ta world- an unforget or back f golf. of week

Celebrities Scheduled to Appear

.com A G P ndL o m a i D

January 21-24, 2021

Tranquilo Golf Course at Four Seasons Golf and Sports Club Orlando

Michelle Wie

h c t Ca Action the

Ben Higgins

Lexi Thompson

Tune in

stay & play

By Greg Wise

The Little Course that Could!

Located in Carrabelle, Florida, St. James Bay Golf Club is not a power hitters golf course, more to the fact its’ design forces you to take in the natural surroundings around you while you play golf.

As you meander through the 18-holes of natural vegetation and wetland of Florida’s forgotten northwest coast we realized that each hole was its’ own little world. Out of sight from the rest of the course giving us the unique feeling of tranquility and that someone else wasn’t watching us.

32

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Don’t forget your cameras at St. James Bay as you will see wildlife that naturally abounds the entire course. Cranes, hawks, eagles, black bear and yes even our favorite here in Florida… the gator.

The Tale of the Tape Black

6,740/y (72.0/139)

Blue

6,374/y (69.8/124)

White

5,918/y (67/5/118)

Green

5,124/y (69.3/111)

St. James Bay has the distinction of

round. Sure big hitters have the ability of

being designated an Audubon Signature

risk-reward options on nearly every hole,

Sanctuary. Robert Walker designed this

but unless you have an unlimited supply

masterpiece with accuracy and strat-

of golf balls… a lot of the risk isn’t worth

egy as your weapons of choice for your

it unless you have played the course

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

33

multiple times. The fairway landing areas and the green complexes are very generous… but missing them truly isn’t an option in your attempt to make par.

Probably one of the favorite items to have in your bag is the yardage book available in the pro shop. The golf carts are GPS equipped with state-of-the-art software… but that handy book is where you will store all your notes for your second time playing St. James Bay, so you don’t make the same mistakes twice.

St. James Bay Golf Club has a Stay and Play option which is our recommendation. It is the ultimate vacation for a peaceful, relaxing experience. From a single unit villa, close to the action of the clubhouse, the first tee and practice facility, to a 1 or 2-bedroom condominium overlooking the 18th-fairway, this is the best experience of all. Even to the extent of Corporate Outings. The Crooked River Grill has the ability to make your event a memorable outing with your group.

One thing that we noticed right away was the friendliness of the staff at St. James Bay. What really hit home for us is when David Abrams, Senior Business Development Manager, said, “We are re-defining the term ‘Hospitality.’ We feel you have chosen St. James Bay to spend your valuable time with.

venient to all of the facilities within

ence the beauty, wildlife, and wilderness

When you depart from our facility,

the community made our afternoon

of Florida as it was decades ago, while

we want you to feel like you are now

walk a pleasure and meeting some

still enjoying luxurious accommodation,

a part of the St. James Bay family.”

of the residents with the same senti-

challenging golf, and great casual dining.

When it is time to make a deci-

ments for the area and passion for life.

When we say… “The Little Course

sion to relocate to a golf course com-

Located less than an hour South West

munity, St. James Bay has nearly 450

of Tallahassee and 90 minutes southeast

life forever with a tranquil vacation.

home sites, nestled in the same lush

of Panama City, Florida, St James Bay

It could ruin your handicap… or it

natural surroundings to build your

Resort offers a uniquely different Florida

could be just the place you call home.

dream home. Wide streets, and con-

vacation. One where you can still experi-

But, don’t forget your camera.

34

that Could!” it could change your

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

tennessee golf central

2020 ‘Favorite Public Golf Course’ Award Knoxville Municipal Golf Course – the D.J. Devictor-designed gem in the foothills of the Appalachians – has been voted by readers of the Knoxville News Sentinel as a “favorite public golf course” in 2020.

The ballot was conducted via public

inquiry by the Knoxville News Sentinel from Aug. 4 – 31. Knoxville Municipal Golf Course is one of two municipal 36

courses owned by the city and this

gratifying feeling.”

is the first time “Knox Muni,” as it’s

Opening in the spring of 1984, the

known by many, has been selected as

course was designed by architect D.J.

the public’s favorite golf course.

Devictor and built by the Roberts family,

whom upon leasing the land to the city

“It’s an honor to be recognized by

local golfers for all the hard work our

made sure it would only be used for

team has put in throughout 2020,” says

golf. The 6,413-yard layout meanders

Justin Smedley, general manager. “I’m

through rolling hills, running streams

incredibly proud of how we have gone

and home to natural wildlife. Knoxville

the extra mile to provide a fun, enjoy-

Municipal features Bermuda fairways

able and safe experience for our guests.

and bentgrass greens making for a

To know our efforts are appreciated by

perfect setting amid scenic views for

the local community is an incredibly

players of all abilities.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

“We are thrilled to be given such high praise from players we interact with on a daily basis,” says Brent Maples, superintendent. “We look forward to providing golfers with the same first-class course conditions for many years to come.”

Knoxville Municipal Golf Course has a

long-standing history of being a community asset and providing affordable golf for all its residents. The course plays host to a variety of school, church, non-profit foundation and other organizational fundraising events on an annual basis.

Knoxville Municipal also graciously hosts many junior golf camps and clinics in partnership with the First Tee of Greater Knoxville, along with serving as a home for numerous middle and high school golf team practices and matches.

More information: https://www.

golfknox.com/, 865.691.7143.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

37

golf travel

Where to Have Your Next Guy’s Golf Trip

Are you planning a guys’ golf trip?

North Carolina has some of the best golf courses in the nation. Whether you’re planning a bachelor party, looking to celebrate a milestone birthday, or simply want to get away for a bit to hang with your closest friends, look no further. These are some of the best destinations for guys’ golf trips.

Take the guys to golf in Pinehurst, North Carolina If you’re a seasoned golfer, you probably prefer to golf in Pinehurst, North Carolina. With Maples Golf packages, you can easily find the Pinehurst golf trip that›s right for you and your group.

Choose from the finest golf courses in Pinehurst, including the New Course at Talamore, 7 Lakes, Longleaf Golf and Family Club, Legacy, Hyland, or Southern Pines. Many packages include a two

Seven Lakes or three-night stay in a luxury two-bedroom condo, perfect for groups.

Plan a guys’ golf trip to Asheville, North Carolina

Head to the Outer Banks for a guys’ golf trip Typically, people head to South Carolina when they’re looking to golf on the

Asheville might not have the Sand-

coast. But the truth is, North Carolina’s

hills’ footprint, but it does have courses

200-mile stretch of the Outer Banks has

designed by the renowned Donald Ross.

some excellent golf destinations. Try

Having created more than 400 courses,

the Currituck Club or Nags Head Golf

Ross is a trusted name when it comes

Links. If you’re looking to golf some-

to golf. Play a round at Omni Grove

where where you can see — and smell

Park Inn, one of Ross’ originals. He also

— the ocean, head to the Carolina Club.

worked on Asheville Municipal — an

With prices well below $200 per person

excellent golf location at a bargain

per round, golfing in the Outer Banks is

price. Mount Mitchell Golf Club and

perfect for a guys’ trip of any size.

Maggie Valley Resort are other mustsees if you plan a golf trip to Asheville.

Golf isn’t the only thing to do in North Carolina. From shopping to dining and sightseeing, there’s plenty

The Villas at Talamore

Pig Pickin Night at Talamore Resort 38

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

The new course at Talamore of things to keep you and your crew occupied during your trip. While you’re in town, consider adding these stops to your trip itinerary: Visit the Sunrise Theater. They’re still open and showing classic films like Star Wars and His Girl Friday. Be sure to check the schedule for the dates you book your trip to see what’s playing while you’re in town.

Keep the party going at Pinehurst Brewing Company. Beer and barbecue lovers will find themselves at home in this old steam plant. The unique atmosphere paired with the always rotating taps is sure to entertain your entire group. Plus, they have live music on weekends.

Plan a trip to the North Carolina Zoo. The North Carolina Zoo is safely open for operation, so if you’re in the area and looking for something to do outside of golf, plan a trip! Besides looking at the animals, the zoo is host to other activities, including Art in the Park.

Save money and, more importantly, travel safely by keeping your golf trip local — your friends will appreciate it!

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Talamore Golf Resort 39

special events

Festivals Of Speed Motorsports Gathering of Exotic, Classic & Muscle Cars The first FESTIVALS OF SPEED Motorsports Gathering held at the Jekyll Island Club Resort in Georgia featured a variety of vintage and contemporary exotic, classic and muscle cars and luxury brand items.

The weekend event, presented by Destiny Family Office, kicked off Saturday December 12, with a Luxury Lifestyle Cocktail Reception inside the hotel’s vintage dining room. Guests enjoyed craft cocktails, fine wines from award winning Adobe Road Winery, a Jewelry and watch display, as well as a special display of original art by nationally renowned wine artist Thomas Arvid. Whistle Pig Whiskey and Adobe Road Winery had brand ambassadors on hand to introduce guests to their fine wines and spirits.

On Sunday, cars were displayed on the Jekyll Island Club Resort’s Riverfront Lawn overlooking the water. A wide

40

variety of vehicles were onsite including Ferrari, Maserati, Porsche, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin, Jaguar, MercedesBenz, and others. Ferrari Of Orlando operated a test drive experience of the new “ROMA” for owners to drive along the winding roads of this enchanting barrier Island. Later in the afternoon, crystal trophies were presented to car owners who won top honors in their class of vehicles. Owners also received a bottle of Adobe Road Wine and Whistle Pig Whiskey with their awards. Adobe Road Wines, featured over 9 wines total that were all over 90+ points each, in-

cluding The Racing Series of Wines with their new pop-up mobile winery. The championship winning car from Daytona Rolex 24 - #66 car from The Racers Group (TRG) and Adobe Road Wines, won the "Spirit of Racing Award". Thomas Ruggie, founder of Destiny Family Office, presented the “MOST STYLISH BENTLEY AWARD” to Mr. and Mrs. Parslow for displaying their Bentley GTC. Thomas Arvid had a display of original works for attendees to admire while reviewing the fine automobiles on display. Guests also enjoyed fine wines, festive cocktails and more throughout the day.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

41

outh orth florida PGA north south florida florida PGA PGA north southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth south

Quail Valley Pro-Am Raises $12,000 for the South Florida PGA Foundation Quail Valley Golf Club in Vero Beach hosted its annual Quail Valley Pro-Am today with proceeds benefitting the South Florida PGA Foundation. Together the 104 amateurs and professional golfers from south Florida raised over $12,000, doubling the amount from last year.

Teams were comprised of one Professional and one amateur with contests being held in the net, gross and professional divisions.

First place in the Gross Division went to Sal Stallone and his amateur Bill Mallon with 56 points, edging out

42

the second-place finishers Alastair MacKenzie, PGA and Matt Lindahl by two points.

PGA Professional Nick Marcoaldi, PGA and Nicholas Susi took home first place in the Net Division, scoring 55 points to edge out David Champagne, PGA and Scott Bayman by one.

Along with the team competi-

tion, Justin Hicks of the Don Law Golf Academy and Tyler Collet, PGA of John’s Island Club earned 47 points apiece tie as Low Professionals for the event.

This event marked the eighth Annual Pro-Am at Quail Valley to raise funds for the South Florida PGA Foundation and the programs it administers, including, Habitat for Humanity, Smiling Fore Life, PGA HOPE, Scholarships, Charitable Gifting and Junior Golf.

The event was presented by Tire Kingdom and supported by Leupold Golf, Athalonz, Heritage Creations and Signature Golf.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Giving Tuesday

2021 Chapter Awards Each year the North Florida PGA Section recognizes its Members and others in the golf community through the NFPGA awards program. The Chapter award winners, as recognized by their peers, have been chosen for their outstanding performance during the 2020 season. These awards recognize the extraordinary accomplishments of NFPGA Professionals on and off the course. On behalf of the four NFPGA Chapter Awards Committee, it is our pleasure to announce this year’s recipients. Visit https://www.nfpga.com/ to view the 2020 NFPGA Chapter award winners.

helps us continue to accomplish this mission,” says Steve McMillen, NFPGA Executive Director. “Youth on Course allows youth to not only deepen their love for golf, but also explore opportunities off the course that would not have been possible if they didn’t take up the game.”

Youth on Course Yours & One Other, the charitable affiliate of the North Florida PGA, has partnered with Youth on Course! Youth on Course is dedicated to opening doors, supporting dreams, & transforming the lives of today’s youth through opportunities on & off the course. Committed to making the game more appealing, inclusive and accessible to nurture the next generation of lifelong players and lovers of the game, junior golfers may play rounds for $5 or less at more than 1,400 participating courses across 39 states and Canada.

“We strive to promote the overall enjoyment & growth of the game in the North and Central Florida region, and joining forces with Youth on Course

On December 1st, the charitable affiliate of the North Florida PGA, Yours & One Other, participated in #GivingTuesday to inspire generosity in the North Florida region and empower others to join in their mission to positively impact the lives of local Youth and Veterans by giving back through the game of golf. Giving Tuesday is a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities, and organizations to encourage philanthropy and celebrate generosity worldwide.

This movement is a perfect fit with the vision and core purpose for which Yours & One Other was built — that using the simple principle of “repairing your ball mark and one other”, we can empower others to change the lives of Youth and Veterans in the communities they live and work. Thank you to all who contributed this year, joining in Yours & One Other’s mission to make a difference in North Florida!

PGA Jr. League Calling all PGA & LPGA Professionals! PGA Jr. League Captain Registration is NOW OPEN! PGA Jr. League is open to both boys and girls, 17 and under, of all skill levels and abilities. Facilities can elect to offer 13u and/or 17u teams and leagues. PGA Jr. League offers an incredible opportunity for PGA ProfesGolf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

43

north florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north fl

sionals to give back to their communities, grow the game, and even increase revenue for their facilities. Visit https:// www.pgajrleague.com/ to register today!

women in golf

Sara Kearney Joins KemperSports as Vice President of Hospitality and Strategic Initiatives And Erica Espe Promoted to Regional Sales and Marketing Director of KemperSports

Sara Kearney

KemperSports is pleased to welcome hospitality industry veteran Sara Kearney as vice president of hospitality and strategic initiatives. In this role, Sara will support KemperSports’ expansion of its relationship withStreamsong Resort to assume management of all resort operations for the award-winning, Central Florida destination. In addition, Sara will support the company’s other destination lodging properties, as well as work with executive leadership on strategic marketing and growth initiatives.

“The hospitality, hotel management, leadership and marketing expertise that Sara brings to KemperSports is second to none,” said Steve Skinner, CEO of KemperSports. “We are anxious to put her vast industry knowledge to work to help us improve the guest experience at our resort and destination properties, in addition to helping us grow that portfolio.”

Sara brings 25 years of experience in hospitality and hotel management, most recently serving in several global marketing and operating positions for Hyatt, including serving as senior vice president, brands and senior vice president, operations – Asia Pacific. In addition, Sara served as the general manager of Park Hyatt Chicago, overseeing all aspects of the hotel opera-

tions, marketing, sales, recruitment, team development and retention. A Chicago native, Sara resides in Glenview with her family.

KemperSports is also proud to announce the promotion of Erica Espe to regional sales and marketing director. In this role, Espe will oversee the development and execution of sales and marketing strategies for multiple properties on the east coast within the KemperSports portfolio.

Espe has been with KemperSports for more than 12 years, most recently serving as the sales and marketing director at KemperSports-managed Heron Glen Golf Course in Ringoes, New Jersey, where she developed and executed all business and marketing plans for the property. In 2016, she received the James S. Kemper Staffer of the Year award, which recognizes a KemperSports staffer who has made outstanding contributions to the company and the community while exemplifying the company’s cultural principles.

“We congratulate Erica on her new role,” said Steve Skinner, CEO of KemperSports. “Erica is an emerging leader in our organization – her accomplishments at Heron Glen Golf Course demonstrate that. We look forward to seeing her thrive in this new role as she puts her expertise to work for multiple properties in the KemperSports portfolio.”

Prior to working at KemperSports, Espe was the sales and marketing coordinator at Cannon Ridge Golf Club in

Fredericksburg, Virginia. She graduated from University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia, where she studied business administration.

Erica Espe

About KemperSports Northbrook, Ill.-based KemperSports builds, owns, leases and manages golf courses, resorts, athletic clubs and lodging venues across the U.S. and Caribbean. The company manages an award-winning portfolio including nationally-ranked courses, private clubs, municipal courses and tournament venues such as Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, named the No. 1 Golf Resort in North America by Golf Digest andGOLF magazine; Streamsong Resort; The Glen Club; Desert Willow Golf Resort; Chambers Bay, host of the 2015 U.S. Open. For more information about KemperSports, please visit https://www.kempersports.com/.

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Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Kenny Perry and Trevor Immelman have made Transitions® lenses part of their game.

www.TurfLife.club Come see us at the PGA Show booth #3516

On the PGA TOUR®, vision is a golfer’s most important equipment. Transitions lenses adapt to changing light to help golfers see more comfortably in all light conditions and help protect eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Visit your local Vision Source doctor, Dr. James Podschun, located at 2828 Casa Aloma Way, Suite 400 in Winter Park, FL 32792, to ask which Transitions lenses are right for you. 407-671-0960

P ER FORMANCE SUNW E A R

Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks and Transitions Adaptive Lenses is a trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc. ©2012 Transitions Optical, Inc.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

transitions.com

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By Fred Seely

freddy's fairway thoughts

Here and there • The once-proud University of Florida golf tournament is in the dumps (yes, alums are upset) and maybe their latest addition will bring them up a notch.

They’ve signed Southern Cal transfer Yuxin Lin, who played in this year’s Masters as the Asia-Pacific Amateur winner.

Former PGA Tour Commissioner Deane • It isn’t quite Phil Beman and wife Judy participated in the Bengston following Jacksonville Area GA’s Family Championship Vince Lombardi, last month at the Jax Beach Golf Club. The but say a prayer for tournament was chaired by former Tour new Florida State assistant commissioner Duke Butler III and Golf Association drew 138 players. Photo by Jeff Adams executive director Jeff Magaditsch, who takes over from the recently retired Jim Demick. Can’t imagine anyone having done a better job than Demick, who took the FSGA from a blue-tee, men’s organization to one with golf events for all.

• How can people elect such stupid school board members? They chose the name of the new high school at the World Golf Village near St. Augustine. It isn’t World Golf Village High. It’s Tocoi High, after a long-gone Indian tribe.

• Credit golf course architect Bobby Weed with coming up with neat gimmicks. He’s designing a course in Northeast Florida and imported peat moss from England.

It’s stacked up to form the face of bunkers, like you see at the 17th at St. Andrews.

• Just when we thought the World’s Greatest Golfer might be getting a little too old to dominate TV, here comes Charlie. Fills two of the three boxes: cocky and wears red on Sunday. The blonds will have to wait 4-5 years.

• Golf manages to keep protect its reputation when others are losing their collective heads but things are going the wrong way with the ridiculous “matches” featuring hacks like Charles Barkley. If this promotes the game, then we need to take a long look: we seem to be promoting it to people whose opinion of golf is based on baloney like the recent match. Leave the sideshows to boxing (Mike Tyson vs. Roy Jones, both over 50) and the like. Tell TV to take those dollars elsewhere.

Better Member-Guest

My club’s senior member-guest is divided into flights with six teams each. We play three nine-hole matches the first day, then two the next. All match play.

I was invited to the Country Club of Charleston’s event and they do it differently, and I commend this to your club (and mine:) • Charleston’s is a stroke play event, rather than match play. This takes away the head-to-head tension; you are playing against an entire flight, rather than one team. You can make friends, not competitors.

• There are four separate formats. This gives a variety we don’t have now. Better ball on the first nine, then scramble, then shamble, then modified alternate shot.

Why it’s better: 46

• The Charleston format does away with one of our problems: 27 holes in one day.

That’s a lot for most of us older people.

Too much, indeed.

Eighteen is enough for one day.

• It doesn’t close the course for the entire day. With only two 9-hole rounds, we started at 9:30 and the first tee was clear shortly after 2. With warmer weather, it would have been okay to start at 8:30.

The winning team in the JAGA Family • The four Championship was the father-daughter combo formats helps of University of North Florida Coach Scott cover a problem Schroeder and daughter Kaitlyn. They played that match play the last six holes in 7-under, finishing with an brings: a team of a eagle, to win by two shots with a 9-under 62. low handicapper Kaitlyn won’t graduate from high school until and a very high 2023 but already is a two-time state champ in handicapper. There’s the 13-15 division. Photo by Jeff Adams no way to hide a poor player in the alternate shot format.

Best of all, they have fried oysters at the awards luncheon.

Bob Dickson Ran into Bob Dickson, who is one of the few to win both the U.S. and British amateurs and then go on to win a PGA Tour event.

Fun story: “I was selected for the 1967 Walker Cup team and that got me to England. After the match, we played in the British Amateur and I won, beating Ron Cerrudo on the 35th hole in the final. No time to celebrate because I had to report to the U.S. Army and 36 hours later I was in fatigues at Ft. Bliss, Tex, for basic training. I reported in, and told them what I had done. I got as quick induction to Army life: my drill sergeant said, ‘I really don’t care what you did over there.’

“The U.S. Amateur was coming up. I asked the captain if I could have time off to play and he said, ‘Are you serious?

You want time off to play in some golf tournament?’

“I was upset and told my brother, who was a golf pro.

Without telling me, he called a U.S. Senator, who made a phone call to Fort Bliss. I didn’t know anything about it until one morning. The captain came through the barracks inspecting our beds. When he got to mine, he reached down and ripped all the covers off. He said, ‘Put it back together while you think I’m not the boss.”

The result: Dickson played in the Amateur and beat Vinnie Giles by a stroke. Then he went back to Fort Bliss where, he says, ‘All they cared about was that I learned how to be a clerk.’”

Questions? Comments? Warrants for arrest?

I’m at fs4569@comcast.net.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

ever happened to me on the job, what is your crazy story? Feel free to DM us on instagram, twitter or send us an email. We would love to read your story on the podcast!

Instagram and Twitter: @notsuperspod Email: notsuperspod@gmail.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple. com/us/podcast/not-so-superintendent/id1524670764 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/ show/5CmcrbLhLQCM88gq2Y1ac h?si=fcwhcpozTmuTAYis3r4I5A Merchandise: https://notsosuperintendent.company.site/

Winter is the time of year where we can do drainage projects, tree removal, and renovation projects. Some people love these jobs, some hate them.

We talk this month about the pros and cons of all of these winter jobs.

We are in the middle of wrapping up the course for the year, removing all of the flag sticks and shutting it down. Frost and frozen greens are an issue every morning, which pushes tee times as far as to lunch time. This usually causes golfers to not want to come out to play at all.

I live on the golf course so I really enjoy when we close for the winter. I feel like I have my own personal 106acre property that I can walk around, drive through and play on whenever I want. This is one of the many perks of the job. During the summer when we are maintaining it 80 hours a week, even though there are golfers on it all day, it still makes me feel like we are just maintaining my backyard.

On episode 19, which came out on December 2nd, we sat down with Cooper Boyce for a great discussion.

Cooper is a sports turf professional who maintains the softball and soccer fields at NC State. He is a former golf course worker so I was able to ask him what it is that they do on a daily basis 48

and what the big difference is between working on a field versus working on a golf course. “It’s a lot more detail work” Cooper points out. The edges of the turf on a softball field have to be perfect and it seems to be their main concern so that a ground ball is not affected when it rolls from the dirt to the grass.

What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you on a golf course?

On episode 20 which came out December 9th, I talked about the craziest thing that has ever happened to me.

Years ago on a golf course I worked at in North Carolina in the middle of Winter, the course had no golfers because it was so cold. I was driving around in my John Deere Gator and I saw 2 police officers running through the course with a German shepherd. I was so confused and I asked them if they needed help, they asked if they could ride in the back of my cart so they could find him.

I drove these cops around for about 2 hours! We never ended up catching the guy. I realized later that they were all wearing bulletproof vests and I thought “where is my bulletproof vest? I’m driving y’all around so I am in just as much danger as they are.” Every day after that I still looked for this guy in hopes of making a citizen’s arrest so that I could get a badge of honor from them.

So that’s the craziest thing that’s

In December, Golf Central Magazine and Turf Life in conjunction with Not So Superintendent ran a TikTok contest. Our winner was Daniel Johnson (@turftok). Congratulations Daniel! Keep up with us on Facebook www.facebook. com/golfcentralmagazine for more contests and giveaways!

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Thompson Joins Performance Nutrition As Territory Manager For East Coast LidoChem, Inc.’s Performance Nutrition Division recently announced the addition of Glen Thompson as Territory Manager covering the Turf & Ornamental (T&O) and Agricultural markets for the east coast. He will initially concentrate his efforts on the southeastern portion of the country.

Thompson is a seasoned professional with over 20-years of experience in Turf and Agricultural inputs sales, technical expertise and relationship building. “We are pleased to have Glen join our team,” said LidoChem, Inc. President and CEO Don Pucillo. “This is his second tour of duty with us following his position at Sunniland Corp. as Product Development Manager.”

Thompson is a native of Louisville, KY; however, he spent his formative years in the Orlando, FL region where he attended Lake City Community College and earned his degree in Golf Course Operations. Before he started in

Glen Thompson

sales in 1999, he worked for a number

individual with technical knowledge

operated business established almost

of courses at country clubs through-

about plant and soil health that will

40 years ago in Hazlet, NJ with its

out Florida. Following his hands-on

prove to be an asset to Performance

Florida-based Performance Nutrition

experience of growing excellent turf,

Nutrition as well as its customer base,”

Division operating since 2000. The com-

he moved into the sales sector repre-

Pucillo said. “His home-base is in Cen-

pany’s focus is on sustainable patented

senting companies such as John Deere,

tral Florida; however, he virtually lives

and proprietary solutions for plant and

UHS, Golf Ventures and Sunniland

in his truck and you can expect to see

soil health through its line of soil and

Corp.

him everywhere.”

foliar products. For more information:

“Glen is a customer service-oriented 50

LidoChem, Inc., a family-owned and

www.pnfertilizers.com/ Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

SunnilandSUPERSpotlight: Steve Keller

Born in the great state of Michigan my love affair with all things golf began at a young age. Dad gave me my first set of clubs at the age of 11 and that’s all she wrote! Waking up early, I couldn’t wait to hit the links. From shagging range balls, caddying, cleaning clubs and golfing, mom and dad never worried where I was......sunrise to sunset they knew just where I could be found.

There was never a question in my mind of what I wanted as a career.

That sweet smell of turf was ingrained from day one!

I attended Michigan State University and studied turfgrass management.

The past 30 years have been in South Carolina and Florida. I have been very

fortunate to have worked and visited some of the best venues in the game.

It has been a lifelong passion to see and play the very best courses. It has been a privilege to travel abroad and see and play the great courses in Scotland, Ireland, Dominican Republic to name a few. Including many of the top 100 USA golf courses.

Currently I can be found at Juliette Falls located in Dunnellon and it is honestly one of the best true golf sites. From the soil up I have been so fortunate to be a part of for the past 15

years. It was an incredible experience to work daily with the owner and the golf course architect while under construction. From the first steps onsite having to use machetes to cut our way through the thick undergrowth all the way up through the grow-in process has been an experience of a lifetime.

A great site, with a great owner who’s put together an incredible management team. We are always “getting it done” every day and providing superior golf conditions year after year.

Golf course superintendents don’t only care for golf courses but care for their local charities as well! We are very proud to host the annual Toys for Tots Seven Rivers Chapter Golf Course Superintendent Association toy drive for the past 14 years. Organized by Andy Jorgensen. The toys are then distributed throughout our county to needy children by the Marion County Sheriff Office Chaplain.

There are a few hobbies I enjoy (other than golf). Sporting clays and snorkeling the Rainbow River and all the activities central Florida has to offer.

The greatest achievements of my life are my two sons, Taylor and Johnny. Both of my sons worked on the course between 2008-2016. Sharing this time with them was the most special time!

Toys for Tots Steve Keller Andy Jorgensen 52

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Sunn 28-0-0

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Total Magnesium (Mg) ..........0.50% Soluble Magnesium (Mg) ......0.50% Soluble Iron (Fe) ...................3.40% Chelated Iron (Fe) .................1.60% Total Manganese (Mn) ..........0.25% Soluble Manganese (Mn) ......0.25% Soluble Zinc (Zn) ..................0.10% Sulfur (S) combined ..............3.50%

Derived from: Manganese Sulphate, Zinc Sulphate, Iron Glucoheptonate, Iron Sulphate, Magnesium Sulphate.

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www.sunnilandcorp.com • 800-432-1130

On the Road Again –

Audubon International gets to know certified members

Audubon International (AI) is the global leader of environmental certification and prides itself on the accomplishments of our many thousands of members. To encourage continual growth of each member’s environmental sustainability, AI staff members visit hundreds of members annually to get to know the people behind each unique certified property and share our expertise.

As a reader of Golf Central Magazine, perhaps the certification of most interest to you is our Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf (ACSP for Golf), which as the name implies focuses on sustainable golf course operations and management. ACSP for Golf also happens to be the certification

track with the largest membership, top-

ties, to golf courses (new construction

ping off at 1,585 member golf courses.

and existing), and we even include

Each new ACSP for Golf member re-

lodging establishments. Each certifi-

ceives Audubon International’s Guide

cation requires regular site visits by

to Environmental Sustainability on

Audubon International upon certifica-

the Golf Course, which walks them

tion, and during recertification cycles.

through the program’s focal areas.

Once the certification is complete on

Audubon International staff fol-

paper, the final step is a site visit to

lowed all health recommendations to

the course by Audubon International

complete 45 visits to our members.

staff – the first of many to come!

Looking towards the future

To maintain certification in

ACSP for Golf members are lo-

ACSP for Golf, members must re-

cated all around the world, with more

certify every three years; alternat-

than half residing in North America.

ing between a site visit and backup

Scott Turner, Environmental Program

documentation submissions. How-

Specialist at Audubon International,

ever, ACSP for Golf members aren’t

conducts the majority of our visits,

the only properties we visit….

and perhaps one of the most memo-

In total, AI offers 7 unique certifica-

54

Despite this year’s pandemic,

rable this year was his visit to Ottawa

tions focused on both built and open

Hunt & Golf Club in Canada; a certified

environments. Our certifications range

ACSP for Golf member of 12 years.

from new developments, to communi-

Josh Harrop, an intern at the Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

club, describes his outlook on sustainable practices as such: “Without the golf industry imple-

weed plants in the long fescue areas.

Ottawa Hunt & Golf Club is so

ning a course of his own one day.

Site visits are integral to uphold-

proud of their accomplishments, they

ing the integrity of Audubon Inter-

menting sustainable practices on the

spread the word beyond the doors of

national’s certification standards but

course, the reputation of the industry

the clubhouse. Staff at the club hosts

they also provide continuous support

will suffer in the eyes of the public.

4th and 5th grade students to teach

for our members and their sustain-

Seeing wildlife on the golf course is

about different aspects of the golf

ability success. If you’re interested

one of my favourite aspects of this

course, including their environment

in learning more about our certifica-

job. So, in the future, I will make a

efforts. This involves youth in the

tions, both golf and non-golf oriented,

serious effort to do my part in mak-

game, and also opens their eyes to the

visit www.auduboninternational.org.

ing my golf course a better environ-

potential career paths in the industry,

ment for not just the player.”

ensuring the longevity of the game.

Josh is fortunate to be studying

Post graduation, Josh said he would

Audubon International, an environmentally focused non-profit organization offers members numerous certifi-

under a group of golf course mainte-

like to obtain an assistant superin-

cations and conservation initiatives to

nance personnel who are dedicated

tendent position to learn as much as

protect the areas where we live, work,

to preserving the environment, and

possible under someone that knows

and play. Their programs are designed

continually expand their sustainability

the golf industry extremely well.

to increase environmental awareness,

efforts. Throughout his internship, Josh

Once confident in his abilities, he

encourage sustainable environmen-

planted oak trees around the property,

would love to include environmental

tal efforts, and educate both their

and observed and maintained milk-

management principles when run-

members and their communities.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

55

Ducks and Gators forge new Partnership at the DeLuca Preserve

Thanks to the tremendous generosity

cockaded woodpeckers and grasshop-

scholars to learn, teach and achieve will

per sparrows on this massive outdoor

reverberate around the globe.”

laboratory. Future ranchers, waterfowl-

Through a multi-faceted partnership,

ers, nature lovers and wildlife scientists

DU and the University of Florida will

will be able to apply what they’ve read

utilize the property for education, out-

in textbooks to what they’re observing

door engagement and working-lands

on the landscape, thanks to Elisabeth

conservation, including the training of

DeLuca. This partnership between the

future generations of natural resource

University of Florida and Ducks Unlim-

and agriculture professionals in a liv-

ited benefits waterfowl, wildlife and

ing laboratory. The easement serves

millions of Floridians who value clean

as a perfect launching pad for Ducks

water and the protection of the natural

Unlimited’s expanding conservation

landscape.”

programs in Florida. While this is the

of Elisabeth DeLuca, more than 27,000 acres of iconic Florida prairie and wetlands habitat have been permanently protected through a unique partnership between Ducks Unlimited (DU) and the University of Florida.

The land was donated to the University of Florida by Elisabeth Deluca, and a conservation easement was set up through DU’s land trust, WetThis property will continue to be

first conservation easement held by DU

lands America Trust. The easement grazed using sustainable methods,

and WAT in Florida, DU has conserved

thereby protecting its grasslands, one of

more than 33,000 acres in the state

the most threatened ecosystems in the

through other programs. This ease-

country. Rates of grassland conversion

ment is also the largest in the history of

in the U.S. have continued at a rapid

Ducks Unlimited.

will protect important wildlife habitat and natural values on the property in perpetuity.

“This Kissimmee Prairie landscape is in the Everglades headwaters, yet pace, with a significant portion lost to

“Located between a global tourism

at the edge of central Florida’s tournon-agricultural uses.

destination, with the Turnpike as a

ism and development core and is “Elisabeth DeLuca’s generous con-

boundary, the DeLuca Preserve is an

now a permanently protected piece tribution of such a significant property

epic win for conservation, and an inter-

is a gift to all Floridians and really,

national model for research, education

to people everywhere,” said UF Presi-

and outreach,” Putnam said.

of the conservation puzzle,” said DU CEO Adam Putnam. “For generations to come, students and researchers dent Kent Fuchs. “The preservation of

This property, along with other state

will make new discoveries alongside this land and what it will enable our

and federal lands, comprise 250,000

migrating waterfowl, endangered red 56

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

acres of protected areas of the Northern Everglades Headwaters which is an im-

generation gift of land.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Ducks

Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated

portant ecosystem for wildlife corridors,

Unlimited and the University of Flor-

to conserving North America’s continu-

watershed protection, flood mitigation

ida to help conserve this outstanding

ally disappearing waterfowl habitats.

and endangered species habitat. Live-

habitat, which will serve as a national

Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited

stock grazing is a highly compatible and

model showcasing how wildlife manage-

has conserved almost 15 million acres

economically important management

ment, water conservation and ranching

thanks to contributions from more than

strategy on this landscape.

can thrive together,” said Bob Ziehmer,

a million supporters across the conti-

Senior Director of Conservation at Bass

nent. Guided by science and dedicated to

Outdoor Fund provided critical funding

Pro Shops and Cabela’s. “We are grate-

program efficiency, DU works toward the

via the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of

ful to our customers who, by rounding

vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the

Florida to help endow Ducks Unlimited’s

up purchases in our stores and online to

skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow

permanent conservation easement and

the Outdoor Fund, directly support key

and forever. For more information on our

other costs associated with this once-a-

conservation projects like this.”

work, visit www.ducks.org.

The Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

57

header

Opening Doors to the Next Generation of Scientific Leaders TruGreen, the nation’s leading lawn care provider, and First Tee, a youth development organization using golf as a catalyst for personal growth, today announced a new partnership supporting the expansion of the First Tee College Scholarship Program to include alumni pursuing careers in agronomy, plant science and other science-based professions.

With TruGreen as a trustee, this program expansion will provide First

internships and full-time employment

dents,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee

placement post-graduation.

CEO. “We're grateful for TruGreen’s

“At TruGreen, we’re committed

commitment to young adults through

to our mission to Live Life Outside

our First Tee College Scholarship

through the local expertise we of-

Program. Through this meaningful

fer our customers, along with our

partnership, we will be able to support

contributions to local communities,”

additional First Tee alumni through

said John Cowles, President & CEO of

their college experience while leverag-

TruGreen. “Our partnership with First

ing the vast resources of TruGreen and

Tee allows us to support deserving

its dedicated employees.”

students across the country as they pursue their dreams of higher educa-

First Tee is a youth development organization that enables kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, First Tee cre-

Tee alumni with valuable opportunities to incorporate their learnings and leadership development into a career in the sciences. The First Tee College Scholarship Program pairs First Tee alumni with dedicated, trained adult mentors who help encourage and guide them throughout the college experience, including virtual and inperson meetups. TruGreen associates will serve as mentors and contribute to professional development and educational sessions, helping to share industry knowledge and science-based expertise with the students. The program also provides scholarships of up to $5,000 per year for four years, and scholars will receive assistance with 58

tion while sharing our love of the

ates active learning experiences that

outdoors with the next generation of

build inner strength, self-confidence

leaders.”

and resilience that kids can carry to

At the end of September, TruGreen

everything they do. These character

previewed its commitment to First

education programs are offered at golf

Tee with an $80,000 donation to First

courses, schools and youth centers in

Tee — Greater Philadelphia to support

all 50 states and at six international

their Drive for the Future Initiative.

locations.

With this contribution, the John F.

Applications will open to First

Byrne Golf Club will be transformed

Tee students in early 2021. For more

into an innovative outdoor classroom,

information on First Tee or the First

serving as the heart of First Tee’s edu-

Tee College Scholarship Program, visit

cational and character development

firsttee.org.

programs in northeast Philadelphia.

“Pursuing a college degree is both

For more information about TruGreen, visit trugreen.com and follow

competitive and challenging for

them on Facebook, Instagram and

today’s graduating high school stu-

Twitter.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

www.nonablue.com

Matthew A. Crowther, CGCS, named recipient of 2021 President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship from GCSAA Massachusetts superintendent to be recognized during virtual Golf Industry Show

Matthew A. Crowther,

the certified golf course superintendent (CGCS)at Cape Cod Country Club in East Falmouth, Mass., has been selected as the recipient of the 2021 President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).

Crowther, a 30-year GCSAA member who is in his second year at Cape Cod Country Club, will be recognized during the annual Golf Industry Show, which will be held virtually Feb. 2-4, 2021.

The GCSAA President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship was established in 1991 to recognize an exceptional environmental contribution to the game of golf; a contribution that further exemplifies the golf course superintendent’s image as a steward of the land.

Crowther was nominated for his work at Mink Meadows Golf Club in Vineyard Haven, Mass., where he was superintendent from 1995 to 2019 and more recently at Cape Cod Country Club. His course management focuses on using as few inputs as possible to keep the surrounding environment in mind, while also creating a healthy, quality playing surface.

Crowther’s approach has reduced chemical inputs dramatically. Mink Meadows features 45 acres of irrigated turf, but only 3 ½ acres are conventionally maintained with fertilizers and pesticides. In addition, he established low-maintenance native areas at the course, which has benefited wildlife and reduced cost and energy consumption to maintain those areas.

“I feel as though all superintendents are environmentalists at heart,” Crowther said. “We care deeply for our courses and the surrounding ecosystems. Some maybe like to think outside the box or take it a step further environmentally, such as I did, but it doesn’t dimmish the average day-today maintenance on most courses.”

“Matthew is widely recognized as one of the true shining stars in our industry, a genuine environmental steward who’s work at both Mink Meadow Country Club and now at 60

Cape Cod Country Club are worthy of praise,” said GCSAA President John R. Fulling, CGCS. “His accomplishments deserve to be held up as examples of the golf industry doing the right thing when it comes to the environment, and we’re pleased that we can honor him through the President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship. It certainly is well-deserved.”

Crowther, who became certified in 1999, has been active in his local and regional associations, serving as president for the GCSA of Cape

Cod and the New England Regional Turf Foundation during his career.

“I never set out for recognition and did what I did voluntarily,” Crowther said. “I was not under any restrictions.

I often questioned my sanity for doing it, but I took great pride in the work and longevity. I feel honored and am deeply humbled to receive this award.”

A list of previous President’s Award winners is available at https://www.gcsaa.org/about-gcsaa/ awards/president-s-award-forenvironmental-stewardship.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Oklahoma’s Chris Cook wins GCSAA Grassroots Ambassador Leadership Award

Golf course superintendent honored for advocacy efforts, advancement of association priority issues and congressional outreach Chris Cook, golf course superintendent at Bailey Ranch Golf Club in Owasso, Okla., has been named a Grassroots Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 6

Ambassador Leadership Award winner from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).

The Grassroots Ambassador Leadership Award, presented quarterly in partnership with The Toro Co., recognizes and honors individuals who have demonstrated growth in advocacy and

advancement of the GCSAA Priority Issues Agenda through congressional outreach and relationship development with a member of Congress. Through Toro, the winners will receive an all-expenses paid trip to take part in the 2021 National Golf Day in Washington, D.C. “Congratulations to Chris for his hard work and dedication to the golf industry,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said.

“He is a great example of how ambassadors work to educate lawmakers and their staff members on the benefits of golf, and that is making a difference.”

The GAL Award is part of the GCSAA Grassroots Ambassadors program, which pairs GCSAA members with members of Congress to build strong relationships between them. More than 450 GCSAA members currently serve as ambassadors.

“While it is true that a major focus of being a Grassroots Ambassador is voicing GCSAA’s position on policy and petitioning for support, the fact remains that a lot of the people we are reaching out to do not understand golf and certainly aren’t in the golf course management industry,” Cook, a 17-year member of GCSAA said. “Because superintendents are so knowledgeable and adept at what we do, we often forget that people who don’t do this for a living have no concept of the ins and outs that go into managing a golf course – especially the science-based decision making.”

Cook has been paired with Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-OK) since 2015 and has worked hard to create a relationship with the senator and his staff and educate them on key golf issues. At first, he met with Congressional field staff in Oklahoma, but eventually Inhofe came to Bailey Ranch where the two discussed golf, policy and advocacy. Cook has also participated in previous National Golf Day events.

“To advocate for our industry most effectively we must first educate legislators and staffers on what a golf course superintendent is, exactly,” Cook said. “Education has allowed me to provide legislators with a clear understanding of the work performed by men and women in the golf course management industry and why they are deserving of Congressional support.”

61

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