EARTH SHAPING NEWS www.gcbaa.org
Published quarterly by the Golf Course Builders Association of America
2017 Summer Edition
GCBAA Summer Meeting Success This summer, we discovered the recipe to one heck of a Summer Meeting. Sprinkle in more than $100,000 raised at the Foundation Auction and we had ourselves quite a week. Just as Justin Thomas was a first time PGA Champion winner, GCBAA welcomed an unprecedented number of first timers to this year’s meeting. We were thrilled to welcome back Barbaron, Inc., and new members Bedford Technologies, LMC Insurance & Risk Management, Links Bridges Inc., NIBCO, SiteOne Golf, and Sunstate Equipment to Charlotte last month.
GCBAA Board Members at Charlotte Motor Speedway
As you’ll see throughout this special edition newsletter, you all played a part in the success of the 2017 Summer Meeting. Whether it was donating an item to the auction, volunteering to catch bids, sponsoring a meeting session, or bringing a beer to staff after a long day, we all worked in uniformity to showcase just what the Golf Course Builders Association of America is all about. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for another great meeting with fellow members and friends. We hope you enjoy this special Summer Meeting issue of the Earth Shaping News.
- GCBAA Staff
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GCBAA MEMBERS
EDUCATION PRESENTERS
16
18
SPOUSES
ALLIED REPRESENTATIVES
Ronnie Adkins, Donnie Adkins & Tom Works enjoying the Opening Reception
12
NEW MEMBERS
29
SPONSORS
55
AUCTION DONORS
17
TRADE SHOW EXHIBITORS
INSIDE THIS ISSUE 3 GCBAA Mobile App
8
Wednesday Education
13 GCBAA Foundation Auction
5
12 GCBAA Partner Programs
19 Note from Executive Director
Irrigation Education
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SCOTT VEAZEY
JUSTIN APEL
TOM SHAPLAND
GCBAA PRESIDENT
GCBAA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
GCBAA FOUNDATION PRESIDENT
CHARTER MEMBERS ACC Golf Construction ADS/Hancor, Inc. Aspen Corporation Boyd Irrigation, Inc. Bryant Taylor Gordon Golf Cal Olson Golf Architecture Caterpillar, Inc. Colorado Lining International, Inc. Duininck Golf Dye Designs International Eagle Golf & Landscape Products Ewing Irrigation Fleetwood Services LLC Flowtronex Forward Group Glase Golf, Inc. HARCO Fittings Hartman Companies, Inc. Henderson & Company, Inc. Heritage Links Hunter Industries ISCO Industries J L Pierman International Associates, Inc. JacklinGolf John Deere Landscapes Unlimited, LLC
EARTH SHAPING NEWS
®
GOLF COURSE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
6040 S. 58th St. Suite D Lincoln, NE 68516 TEL (402) 476-4444 FAX (402) 476-4489 information@gcbaa.org www.gcbaa.org
Landirr, Inc. LASCO Fittings Inc. Leemco Inc. Lepanto Golf Construction Inc. MacCurrach Golf McDonald & Sons, Inc. Medalist Golf Mid-America Golf & Landscape, Inc. NMP Golf Construction, Corp. Profile Products LLC QGS Development, Inc. Rain Bird Corporation – Golf Division Ryan Inc. Central Ryangolf Corporation Shapemasters, Inc. Southeastern Golf, Inc. SportZmix – Waupaca Sand & Solutions Sunbelt Rentals TDI International, Inc. Tee-2-Green The Cart Path Company The Toro Company United Golf, LLC Wadsworth Golf Construction Company West Coast Turf
JUSTIN APEL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR justin_apel@gcbaa.org SAMANTHA HUFF PROGRAM & PLANNING MANAGER samantha_huff@gcbaa.org
GCBAA FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBERS MARK ARRIMOUR TOTAL TURF SERVICES JIMMY KIRCHDORFER ISCO INDUSTRIES BILL KUBLY LANDSCAPES UNLIMITED, LLC KUN LI FORWARD GROUP RICK LOHMAN THE TORO COMPANY DENNIS WAGNER HUNTER INDUSTRIES DOUG YORK EWING IRRIGATION
STEPHANIE BRUSS INFORMATION & EDUCATION COORDINATOR stephanie_bruss@gcbaa.org EAGLE PRINTING & SIGN DESIGN & LAYOUT www.eagleprintingandsign.com
Information in this publication may be reproduced for non-profit education purposes. Please include source credit if reproducing. Contact the Executive Director if material is used for any other purpose to obtain written permission. News releases via email or fax are welcomed and encouraged. Archived issues available at www.gcbaa.org
GCBAA Invests in Mobile Event App for Summer Meeting
Board of Directors welcomes GSCAA to Summer Meeting
For the first time, GCBAA offered a mobile event app for meeting attendees. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive from those who interacted with it. Attendees enjoyed a number of unique features, including a real-time attendee directory, up to the minute schedule changes, and detail of our speakers and sponsors. Didn’t use the app or couldn’t make the Summer Meeting? No problem! The meeting app will be active through October if you’d like to reference anything.
• Download TripBuilder Media Community from your app store • Enter the access code gcbaa • Create your account
GCSAA Board Members: Bill Maynard, John Fulling, Jr., Rhett Evans and Darren Davis pose for a quick photo with GCBAA Board Member Dennis Wagner
Much like the Winter Meeting, the Summer Meeting provides an opportunity for the GCBAA Board to meet and discuss association business. After a group dinner on Monday night, the board started early Tuesday with a full agenda. Typical housekeeping items fill the agenda as well as updates on activities of the staff through the first half of the year. This year, board members of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America joined for a group discussion followed by a working lunch. GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans, President Bill Maynard, Vice President Darren Davis, Secretary/Treasurer Rafael Barajas, and Director John Fulling, Jr. were part of the board discussion as well as meeting attendees throughout the remainder of the week. Both boards agreed about the need to collaborate and share resources regarding industry initiatives. GCBAA Board Members include President Scott Veazey, President-Elect Patrick Karnick, Vice President Dennis Wagner, Secretary Ellen Davis, Treasurer Judd Duininck, Past-President Rick Boylan, Directors Ronnie Adkins, Christopher Caccavale, Mark Creighton, Greg Hufner, John McDonald, II, Joy Ramos, Frank Warden, Stephanie Zimmerman, Tom Works, and Rick Williamson, along with Executive Director Justin Apel.
“The app was really well designed, very easy to use and provided quick access to all of the moving parts surrounding this wonderful event. I’ve been to shows before where the app was more work than its worth, but a lot of thought was put into the set up of this app that made it very user friendly. I’ve continued to reference it several times post-event to connect with other attendees.” Shelly Urish - GCSAA
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TO THINK, FOR SOME IT’S ONLY A GAME. Others might see your course as a place to relax. Not your crew. From sun up to sun down, they’re fighting the elements, expectations and the clock—and in their case, losing is not an option. At SiteOne,™ we’re obsessed with helping you and your team win, delivering the solutions you need to compete and the advice to take you over the top. Let the other guys play for fun, we mean business.
SiteOne.com Irrigation I Lighting I Turf & Landscape Maintenance I Nursery I Golf Course Maintenance I Hardscape I Pest Control
Irrigation Education
Special Guest Reception
GCBAA is proud to be a leading force in the field of golf course construction. We recently focused on a very important piece of the industry, irrigation. Headquartered in Charlotte, GCBAA member Smith Turf & Irrigation graciously opened its doors to help us host a day of irrigation education in conjunction with the Summer Meeting. We are thankful for the hospitality they extended to our group — their team made our experience as flawless as possible, even when mother nature tried her best to keep us inside.
Before Tuesday night’s Opening Reception, we welcomed an excited and eager group of new members, allied guests and the week’s presenters. This invitation-only event was a great opportunity for guests to visit with the GCBAA and Foundation Board of Directors. It’s a way to continue to welcome new members and special guests, as well as thank the week’s presenters.
Group shot of irrigation attendees at Smith Turf & Irrigation
New member Jonah Yezzi being welcomed by GCBAA Board Member Christopher Caccavale
Our classroom and hands-on education were to help expose and train GCBAA members on the topic of irrigation and safety. The following individuals did a phenomenal job with their remarks: Different Fusion Styles & Best Practices Brett Stone & Vince King, McElroy Field Testing & Destructive Testing Chris Menno, Doug Zak & Joe Fernandez, CMF Global Two Wire Trouble Shooting Sean O’Neill, Hunter Golf; Ian Williams & Bret Ramsey, Rain Bird Corporation; Jerry Riley, The Toro Company Splicing & Grounding Vince Nolletti, Paige Electric
GCBAA Board Members Ellen Davis (left) and Joy Ramos (right) are excited to see Melanie Boylan (center)
Irrigation Education Sponsors
Contractor Gottcha Moments John Murtaugh, Motor Controls Inc. Eliminate Concrete Thrust Blocks by Using Joint Restraints Tony Garner & Ryan Miller, Leemco Piping Solutions Proper Solvent Welding Best Practices Rick Williamson, LASCO Fittings, Inc. Safety Management for the Supervisor Chuck Martinek, LMC Insurance & Risk Management We believe it’s important that our members get the proper training pertaining to the latest irrigation trends and technologies. A big thank you to all members that attended the irrigation sessions and made the training so valuable. Without our sponsors and Smith Turf & Irrigation, this day wouldn’t have been possible, so thank you.
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Property & Casualty | Employee Benefits | Surety Bonds | Personal Insurance | Financial Services
LMC Insurance & Risk Management offers customized loss control solutions to assist you in achieving your risk management goals. Our systematic approach of conducting detailed assessments, analyzing loss data, and developing realistic action plans is a proven method for helping you obtain long term results. Connect with us @LMC Insurance
Education
Tool Box Meetings Supervisor Safety Management Training Workers’ Compensation 101 Hazard Awareness/Recognition Accident Investigation Return to Work Programs
Consultation Services
Claim Management Practices Mock OSHA Inspections On-Site Hazard Assessments OSHA Citation Assistance OSHA Recordkeeping Safety Program Gap Analysis Safety Program Development
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Lezage Online Training Center LMC Website Risk Management Center
Claim Management Services
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Additional Services
Assistance in Recommendation Compliance Carrier Service Coordination Marketing Safety Efforts to Underwriters
Chris Seiberling Bonds Account Executive 515-865-8266 | chris.seiberling@lmcins.com
Opening Reception & Trade Show GCBAA’s Summer Meeting was one to be remembered. Members and guests, along with an impressive 17 trade show exhibitors packed the ballroom to visit, sip and savor. The spirit and fervor of the attendees, trade show exhibitors, volunteers and staff were unmatched. We were so grateful to welcome such a stellar group to Charlotte for the week and can’t thank you enough for your attendance and support.
GCSAA’s Rafael Barajas (left) enjoying the Opening Reception and Trade Show with GCBAA members
Attendees get a glipmse into NASCAR at Summer Meeting For the past several years the Education Committee has found a local flavor to be a part of the education line up. The past few years we have showcased these local legends as our guest luncheon speaker, ranging from the official Bugler of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, to an Olympic bobsledder athlete from the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. With the help of GCBAA partner Buildertrend, we welcomed someone who knows Charlotte and NASCAR best, International Motorsports and Motorsports Hall of Fame inductee Howard “Humpy” Wheeler, Jr. Humpy was the former President and General Manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway and remains active in supporting various charities around the Charlotte area. Humpy gave a great talk about his career in NASCAR and reminded the group of the importance of keeping a youthful spirit in everyday life. His message was more than just words; Humpy talked about his Hollywood fame as the voice of “Tex” in the hit Disney Pixar movie “Cars” and even drove in in a replica of “Doc” the Hudson Hornet character from the movie. Thank you Humpy for joining us and special thanks to Caterpillar, Inc. for offering an Earthmover Award to Humpy to add to his trophy case.
All set up! Sunbelt Rentals shows off their spread at the Opening Recption and Trade Show
Humpy Wheeler, Jr. (and voice of “Tex” in the movie “Cars”) cruises into the Omni in a replica of the Hudson Hornet
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
“Capillary Concrete is a proud supporter of the GCBAA. We are thrilled at the partnership and their willingness to think outside the box on creative ways to help our company educate the industry and stay current on the latest technologies that are available. We look forward to future projects together and are proud of the “Buy from Within” mentality!”
NASHVILLE 2018 2018 GCBAA Summer Meeting Omni Hotel Downtown, Nashville TN August 14 – 16
Martin Sternberg, President - Capillary Concrete
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Wednesday Education Maybe one of the most challenging tasks of planning a Summer Meeting is creating the education schedule. Fortunately, staff is able to lean on an Education Committee comprised of members who have a handle on the industry and what they see as the most pertinent topics to cover in a setting like this. By many accounts, this year’s lineup trumped them all! Wednesday started with caffeine and a hearty breakfast sponsored by LASCO Fittings. LASCO has generously sponsored “Breakfast with the Vendors” the last few years and it’s a tradition we hope continues. Shortly after, GCBAA President Scott Veazey and Executive Director Justin Apel welcomed more than 150 attendees to Charlotte, and after a few housekeeping items, we were ready to get the day started. What better way to start a day of education than with an economist joke, right? Well that’s exactly what the group was treated to as Bernard Baumohl took the stage. Mr. B is Chief Global Economist at The Economic Outlook Group, and is well known for being ahead of the curve in assessing the direction of the U.S. and world economy. He spoke to an attentive group about where the U.S. economy is really headed, what the path is for consumer and business spending, tax policy, interest rates, oil prices and the dollar. If you didn’t get a chance to hear this session, we urge you to jump on our website and check out his PowerPoint presentation.
John Lawrence listening intently to Chief Global Economist Bernard Baumohl.
While that would be a tough act to follow for anyone, ASGCA’s Ron Whitten sure impressed folks in the next session. Ron helped design Erin Hills in Wisconsin, and offered a light-hearted approach to left-brain vs. right-brain golf architecture. And while there are perks of both, most golf architects in America have been identified as left brain dominant. Think Firestone Country Club in Akron, Ohio…the epitome of left-brain architecture. On the other hand, Sand Hills Golf Club in Mullen, Nebraska is the epitome of right brain architecture; as you see minimal disturbance to the land. Informal presentations, in a segment tabbed Beyond Golf, provide a glimpse into the lives of GCBAA members and friends outside of golf and a small break from formal education programming. Up first, GCBAA president Scott Veazey and Executive Director Justin Apel passed the mic in one of the most heart-wrenching, yet uplifting and personal stories. Scott’s nephew, Chance Veazey, had a promising baseball career
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ASGCA’s Ron Whitten presenting at the GCBAA Summer Meeting.
in his future, having won state championships in high school and was likely to have a starting position with the University of Georgia. That career ended unexpectedly when Chance left the University library and was struck by a car, paralyzing him from the waist down. Chance proved to his family, friends, and anyone who met him that despite an unfair, life-altering moment, you pick yourself up and make the best of any hand you’re dealt. Chase, by his actions, has gone on to reiterate the sentiment that it is a waste of time to be angry with something you have no control over. As a testament to his positive attitude, the University of Georgia kept Chance on the team and modified their facilities to keep him involved with the program. Countless others in the community also rose to the occasion by helping the family modify their home and help raise funds to cover the medical costs associated with the uninsured accident. Even a few celebrities offered support. Coincidentally, Scott’s presentation to our group was timed with a continuation of Chance’s story in the national news. Chance’s former Georgia teammate, Kyle Farmer of the Los Angeles Dodgers, scored a two-run double in the 11th inning and gave the Dodgers a walk-off victory. As Farmer’s fellow Dodgers greeted him at the plate, they tore off his shirt dousing him in Gatorade. As they raised Kyle’s arms in celebration, a “Second Chance” tattoo was noticed by an ESPN reporter. Kyle Farmer went on to share how he and a number of other of Chance’s former teammates have the “Second Chance” tattoo to show solidarity and support for their pal. After a quick break sponsored by Peat, Inc. the group gathered for a heavy lineup of updates from our allied associations. Jeff Morgan (Club Managers Association of America), Stacy Gardner (American Society of Irrigation Consultants), Henry Wallmeyer (National Club Association), Rhett Evans (Golf Course Superintendents Association of America), and John Sanford (American Society of Golf Course Architects) all shared what their respective organizations are working on and ways GCBAA can get involved and partner with one another. It was great to have them participate in the meeting and we look forward to continuing discussions with each group. We were thrilled to have Erik Larsen of BrightView Golf with us in Charlotte. Erik has found a creative way to maximize land surrounding a golf course and described how it can be repurposed into functional space. This creates a win-win situation by not only creating development opportunities for our members to get involved with, but also provides more useful living area and landscape surrounding in the transitional space between residential developments and golf facilities.
Jennifer Poth had a tough task to keep stomachs at bay as she joined us right before lunch. But she had no problem at all as her story and what she’s doing with Operation Support Military Golf (OSMG) captured everyone’s attention. Shortly after the 2013 Boston Marathon terrorist attack, Jennifer realized she wanted a way to serve our military through the game she loves. Jennifer devoted her professional career to combining her love and passion for our United States Military and the game of golf by founding Operation Support Military Golf, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving military golf courses around the world. We were humbled to have Jennifer and her father, Lt. Col. John E. Poth, with us for those couple days in Charlotte and look forward to working with them to continue the efforts of OSMG. All construction companies are looking to utilize their mobile devices to better manage their job information when in the field. A presentation by Paul Wurth, Vice President of Sales at Buildertrend (the leading cloud-based construction platform), took a look at the current devices, software and apps that are available to construction companies today. More specifically, Paul dialed in on how using all-in-one applications specific for construction management can save a company up to nine (9) hours per week and keep all stake holders on a project in the loop. It was a well-received session, peaking the interest of many Builders in the room. We look forward to partnering with Buildertrend to get the best resources at our member’s fingertips…stay tuned for more details! A group of young and younger builders were invited to the stage to take part in a fireside chat moderated by Guy Cipriano, Associate Editor for Golf Course Industry Magazine. Representing the “young” demographic were Allan MacCurrach (MacCurrach Golf) and Jim Glase (Glase Golf Inc.), while the “youngers” were Chris Harz (ACC Golf), Greg Hufner (Total Turf Services, Inc.) and Mike Perez (VM Golf Services). It was a fascinating exchange as the group spoke candidly about everything from the biggest hindrances to completing a project on schedule to why it has become increasingly challenging to find and retain quality employees. To get the perspective from those who are wellrespected in the industry was a real treat for attendees.
After a short break, we had maybe the most entertaining act of them all in one of our Beyond Golf segments. Enter, Klaus’ Nuts! For those who missed out, it’s not what you think. Our good friend and member, Klaus Ahlers, proved to us that anything is possible when you put your mind to it, no matter how NUTS it might seem. After taking us around on his travels, he showed us his newfound love for every squirrel lover’s dream job, raising almonds. Sacked away in the upper Northwest, you will come across the salty, fresh air from the Pacific and the perfect growing opportunity for almond trees. Don’t believe us, just ask those who were in attendance and were treated to a sample of his almond snack packs. Switching gears and bringing the group back to a business mindset was GCBAA member Henry DeLozier of Global Golf Advisors. Henry is a tremendous resource to the association as he routinely provides articles in our quarterly newsletter and is always a phone call away to assist fellow members. We came to Henry earlier this summer, asking him to give a presentation on the GCBAA Certification Program. “Certification” is a mark of achievement and commitment in any industry, but what does being certified mean to you? Throughout this session, Henry explored the GCBAA certification program and how it can bring favorable results to your company. Happy hour started with one last session to go. GCBAA’s Samantha Huff moderated a star-studded lineup of panelists featuring a look at “Inside the Ropes.” In the hot seat were Shelly Urish (GCSAA), Pat Wolters (Freeman), and Justin Apel (GCBAA). This light-hearted exchange showcased the history and build up of Inside the Ropes, which was a pillar at the 2016 and 2017 Golf Industry Show. If you think a live green featuring bunkers was neat, wait ‘til you hear what’s in store for 2018! Plans are evolving daily and we look forward to working with many of you on what’s to come.
Wednesday Education Sponsors
Guy Cipriano moderating a fireside chat of our young and younger builders.
Developing an effective safety program can be a challenging task for some companies. Companies with consistently successful safety programs share basic characteristics that ensure their success; and we were lucky to have a great resource in GCBAA Member LMC Insurance and Risk Management to speak to this. LMC’s Chuck Martinek gave the group a lot to think about as he discussed those characteristics and educated us on how we can take our safety programs to the next level.
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Jeff Davis “supervising” a rowdy group of ladies during the Spouse Event
Spouses sip & sample their way through Charlotte
“Rosa thought it was great! I am still hearing stories of their experience and have been since it occurred. Great Spouse Event!” Donnie Adkins - Aspen Corporation
To ensure members enjoyed their education without worry, the Meetings Committee offered a unique way to keep their spouses entertained and out of trouble, so to speak. A group of 15 ladies and one brave man sampled and sipped their way through some of Uptown Charlotte’s best representations of the region that afternoon. The group heard chefs and restaurant owners explain the influence of Southern heritage on their cuisine and menus. They tasted local craft beer, enjoyed wine pairings, and strolled along city streets to explore some of Charlotte’s historical past and most unique eateries. Below you’ll read a recap of their food and beverage journey from that one brave man, Jeff Davis, spouse to Ellen Davis of SportZmix Solutions.
4th Stop - Orrman’s Cheese Shop Orrman’s is located at the 7th Street Public Market, in a malllike area equipped with local vendors that cannot afford brick and mortars. The mall included: a fresh coffee stand, a dessert stand, wine and cheese and pizzeria stands just to name a few. We were given a taste of two red wines that we rated on aroma, looks and taste. We ultimately favored the French wine over the local wine. Then we tasted a smoked cheese sandwich with sun-dried tomatoes on focaccia bread. The cheese shop informed us that they only buy fresh cheese from the local farmers that do their own milking and cheese making.
1st Stop - Mimosa Grill Mimosa Grill was very clean and contemporary with tile floors and stone walls. The group started with a glass of white wine that was very sweet and tart in flavor. The food was a rare ahi tuna over a pineapple/tomato and the presentation was great. The chef explained in detail the content of the plate and how they utilize local seasonal vegetables in their menu.
5th Stop - Sea Level At Sea Level, we were served fresh Outer Edge oysters over ice with fresh lemon wedges and hot sauce. For the oyster lovers, this was a real treat because we ate until our hearts were merry! The wood floors and tables were beautiful, sturdy and well-made. The staff explained to us how they harvest the oysters, power-wash, shuck and serve them.
2nd Stop - The King’s Kitchen The King’s Kitchen is a 501C3 operation that also utilizes the freshest local vegetables and uses stone ground grains that are grown locally in their dishes. This facility helps the homeless with food and shelter and opens on Sundays to provide a one hour prayer service along with a hot meal. The owners and staff assist the homeless in finding jobs like bussing tables, dishwashing and cooking to get them trained for future work outside of the restaurant. We had grits with smoked bacon topped with a fried green tomato.
We had a terrific time on the tour and then headed back to the hotel to change and get ready for more drinking and eating at the GCBAA Dinner and Auction. Seemed to be a reoccurring theme this week!!
3rd Stop - RiRa’s Irish Pub RiRa’s is a pub with a 1800’s décor and was built with the materials of a ship. The seasoned wood and stone work gave it a very warm and inviting atmosphere. We were treated to local craft beers and a pub burger and fries. The sign “Whisky makes me Frisky” was a portrait highlight sent to the spouses during the tour! Legend has it that the restaurant has had ghost sightings, however we did not experience one while we were there.
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Buy From Within Reception
GCBAA Partner Programs take off at Summer Meeting
After a full day of education, it was nice to change pace and clean up for the Buy From Within Reception held at the Hotel. Throughout the year we stress the importance of doing business with fellow GCBAA members whenever possible, and the reception was a reflection of just that!
The GCBAA Summer Meeting is a great way to connect with our members, and often those discussions lead to ideas and partnership programs. The meeting allowed opportunities for those GCBAA Member partners to share their programs as well as discuss other ways to support one another and expand the association “Buy from Within” program.
Members eyeing their “hopeful” raffle prizes at the Buy From Within Reception
Guests get seated for a night of food, fun and bidding at the Foundation Dinner and Auction
Summer Meeting Sponsors
HOTEL BAR COASTERS
HOTEL ROOM KEYS & REGISTRATION BAGS
(Left to Right) Scott Veazey, Jonah Yezzi, Todd Christifulli, Justin Apel and John McDonald II celebrate a successful night at the Foundation Auction
For many years, UPS and UPS Freight has been offering GCBAA special discounts on shipping. Additionally, YRC and Roadway have unique programs for freight and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments. These programs both provide incentive rebate payments back to the GCBAA depending on our member’s usage of the programs. In 2016 Caterpillar, Inc. offered a Cat dealer incentive program that proved beneficial to not only our GCBAA members but to the Foundation and the game of golf. They presented a check for over $10,000 to GCBAA in February, which started tremendous momentum in bringing on partnership programs by other members. Sunbelt Rentals presented the GCBAA Foundation with a $5,000 check to help sponsor new, 2017 Sticks for Kids programs. Profile Products began offering a portion of their earnings for “every ball, roll or ton” purchased by GCBAA members to the Foundation. Finally, recently launched is a national account discount program through GCBAA Member Wacker Neuson. For details on all the GCBAA Member Benefit programs visit the gcbaa.org website, https://www.gcbaa. org/Membership/GCBAA-Partner-Programs. Watch for new programs coming online this fall including a partnership program with new GCBAA Member Buildertrend.
LANYARDS
REGISTRATION GIFT
Stahlman-England Golf Irrigation “A noticeable difference that sets us apart“
StahlmanEngland Banner.indd 1
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GCBAA Foundation Auction raises over $100,000 for Sticks for Kids GCBAA members never cease to amaze! To be in a room full of aggressive competitors that are willing to put aside their differences and come together for something bigger than themselves is incredible. It is apparent that the Sticks for Kids program is near and dear to all our hearts. Our members and guests dug deep and helped raise $100,000 to continue to grow the game of golf.
Sticks for Kids Golf Tournament To be so lucky, to have one perfect, sunny day for our Sticks for Kids golf tournament, would make you think that the golf gods were smiling down on us. At least, we know they were smiling down on GCBAA Board Member Rick Williamson as he had his first career birdie that morning! Golfers enjoyed a great day at Rocky River Golf Club, chasing after pin flags, low scores and the ultimate prize…the coveted Caterpillar Earth Mover Award – distinctly held for the last place team. We appreciate those who had the courage to get out of bed and golf after a great (but long) night of food, fun and fellowship at the Dinner and Auction the evening before.
Our Foundation believes that no child should have to pass up the opportunity to play the game because they can’t afford the equipment. Golf teaches our youth patience, responsibility, integrity, teamwork, discipline, dependability, confidence and much more. These are some of the intangibles that are needed to grow our youth as model citizens.
Rick Williamson celebrating his first ever birdie!
GCBAA president Scott Veazey grinning from ear to ear as the auction thermometer hits $100,000
SFK Tournament Sponsors BEVERAGE SPONSOR
GOLF POLOS & BLOODY MARY BAR
EARTHMOVER TEAM AWARDS
GOLF FLAGS
Good times had by all at the Sticks for Kids golf outing
HOLE SPONSORS
GOLF TROPHIES
PLAYER BREAKFAST & LUNCH SPONSOR
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The GCBAA Foundation would like to thank all our donors, purchasers and volunteers that helped make this 2017 Summer Meeting a success. Without your humble, kind and giving heart, we would not have reached such an impressive total. RAFFLE White Amazon Echo Dewalt 168 Pieces Mechanics Tool Kit Greg Norman Autographed Hat Greg Norman Autographed Hat Greg Norman Autographed Hat Stihl Weedeater George Bodenheimer Autographed Book Watertronics Backpack DKNY Red Purse iPad Air 2 Bushnell Tour V4 Shift Patriot Pack
DONATED BY ADS/Hancor, Inc. Anonymous Donor Great White Shark Enterprises, LLC Great White Shark Enterprises, LLC Great White Shark Enterprises, LLC Greenville Turf & Tractor National Club Association Watertronics, Inc. SportZmix Solutions Sunbelt Rentals Anonymous Donor
WINNER Mike Roach Terry Gwinn Jon O’Donnell Jeff Morgan John Silwonuk Barry Ferrell Chris Clarke Jack McDonald Mark Lunsford Jack McDonald Danielle Scardino
Please help us recognize the following donors of the live and silent auctions: AUCTION ITEM GCBAA Luggage Travel Set Disney World Vacation Package Ladies’ Purse Package Skid Loader 28-Day Rental Polylast Bunker Liner Wine Country Getaway for Two Cigar & Whiskey Package Shot: A400 Xplor Beretta Steel Wings Duck Club Charmed Custom Jewelry Full Page Advertisement Moselem Spring Golf Club Outing 9-yard Truckload of Concrete Better Billy Bunker Package “Summer Breeze” Cat Prepaid Card 1,500 sq. ft. of Bentgrass Sod 1,500 sq. ft. of Bentgrass Sod 1,500 sq. ft. of Bentgrass Sod Chicago Golf Club Outing Chicago Golf Club Outing Inshore Fishing Trip GCBAA YETI Cooler Cat Taiga Cooler South Dakota Hunting Trip TriEst Ag Fumigation 2018 GIS Marketing Package Bandon Dunes Golf Resort Getaway His & Hers iWatch Dismal River Trip, Mullen NE GX-7 Putter $500 Home Depot Gift Card Arnold Palmer Sticks for Kids Box Ernie Els Autographed Hat Custom Knife with Stand Custom Knife with Stand Coach Purse Package Cat D11 Track-Type Tractor Clemson 2016 Nat. Football Champs Dale Earnhardt Jr. & Sr. Together “And Away We Go” African Beads w/Silver Sollar Wags Grillin’ Rub Basket (3) Greg Norman Signed Wine Bottles ISCO Backpack Package Jack Nicklaus & Arnold Palmer US Open 2008 Tiger Woods Champion at Torrey Pines Flag Taylor Made Spider Putter Golf Buddy LR5 Laser Range Finder Case of Flat Rock Cider D&B Navy and Denim Purse Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill/Driver Callaway GPSy Golf Watch
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DONATED BY Ryangolf Corporation The Toro Company Dakota Peat & Equipment, Inc. Sunbelt Rentals Polylast Systems, LLC DHR Construction, Inc. Frontier Golf Southeastern Golf, Inc. Heritage Links SportZmix Solutions Golf Course Industry Aqua Agronomic Solutions, Inc. Capillary Concrete Better Billy Bunker VM Golf Services Caterpillar, Inc. West Coast Turf West Coast Turf West Coast Turf Shapland Golf Consultants Shapland Golf Consultants Rain Bird Corporation ACC Golf Construction Caterpillar, Inc. Duininck Golf TriEst Ag Group, Inc. GCSAA Bandon Dunes Golf Creations Ewing Irrigation Sandtrapper Fleetwood Services Arnold Palmer Design Company Atlas Turf International Limited Benson Construction Company, Inc. Benson Construction Company, Inc. Bridge Builders USA, Inc. Caterpillar, Inc. Course Crafters LLC Course Crafters LLC Course Crafters LLC SportZmix Solutions Dennis Wagner Great White Shark Enterprises, LLC ISCO Insudtries Kempker Greens Mix Blending Inc. Landscapes Unlimited, LLC Motor Controls Inc. Profile Products LLC Southeastern Golf, Inc./Jim Sparks SportZmix Solutions Total Turf Golf Services, Inc. Turf & Soil Diagnostics
PURCHASED BY Mike Perez Mike Perez Kevin Grieder Greg Hufner Robert Fleetwood Judd Duininck Chris Lineberger Jackie & Les Hill Chris Caccavale John McDonald, II Donnie Adkins Kurt Huseman Chris Hill Kurt Huseman Angela & Kirk Grego Greg Hufner Kurt Huseman Oscar Rodriguez Pat Karnick Terry LaGree Rick Elyea Greg Hufner Robert Fleetwood Vern Webb Allan MacCurrach Oscar Roriguez John Murtaugh BJ Johnson John McDonald, II Jon Truttmann Jon O’Donnell Shelly Urish Rick Boylan John Silwonuk Chris Clarke Fidel Garcia Jack McDonald Chris Clarke Don Ferrar Jack McDonald Klaus Ahlers Pam Fleetwood Rick Boylan Kurt Huseman Don Ferrar Chris Clarke Jon O’Donnell Jack McDonald Pam Fleetwood Rick Elyea Adriana & Chris Menno Vern Webb Ryan Miller
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“Having Sunbelt as our partner on construction projects as well as renovation projects has been very successful and we look forward to working with them on many projects in the future.” Mike Webb, Construction Manager – GCBAA Certified Builder Heritage Links
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“Most days I would rather have a cavity filled than talk about insurance coverage for my company. While we all work hard to maintain a safe work environment for our employees and think we have the best coverages to protect our business, we can all do a better job and stay on top of the ever-changing regulations affecting this side of running a business. I am thrilled that GCBAA has partnered with LMC Insurance and Risk Management to help our association and its members with these discussions. LMC has been providing education and support at our national and regional meetings and are a painless phone call away when I have questions. We are fortunate to have so many useful resources as business operators offered by GCBAA.”
“On behalf of Stahlman-England and our employees we wanted to congratulate the Golf Course Builders Association of America on hosting a terrific Summer Meeting. Vern Webb and his wife Debbie reported back to our team how much they enjoyed the networking and education. We were happy to help the Sticks for Kids Program raise over $100,000 and are extremely proud of our organization investing into the future of the game that supports our business. Stahlman-England is a noticeable difference that sets us apart and are pleased to be part of an organization that does the same!”
John McDonald II, Vice President - McDonald & Sons Inc.
Steve Hall, Stahlman-England Irrigation, Inc.
SERVING THE GOLF INDUSTRY WORLD WIDE
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Design Construction Management 316-253-7493 jdhartgolfdesign.com Summer Edition 2017 | 17
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GCBAA MEETINGS CALENDAR CAROLINAS REGIONAL MEETING November 13, 2017 Myrtle Beach SC In conjunction with the Carolinas GCSA Conference & Trade Show * Date Subject to Change
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SOUTH FLORIDA REGIONAL MEETING December 14, 2017 The Breakers Resort Palm Beach FL
2018 GCBAA SUMMER MEETING August 14 – 16, 2018 Omni Hotel Downtown Nashville TN
FUTURE GOLF INDUSTRY SHOW SITES February 7 – 8, 2018 Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center San Antonio TX February 6 – 7, 2019 San Diego Convention Center San Diego CA
Note from the Executive Director On behalf of the GCBAA Board and Staff, we cannot thank you enough for all your support in making this year’s Summer Meeting a success. Just before we left the hotel to catch our flight home from Charlotte, all our boxes were sealed up, and staff luggage was sitting by the temporary office door, I snapped a quick selfie (right) of Samantha, Stephanie, and myself. The caption summarizing the week along with “…this meeting was one for the books….” While many commented on the post about how much fun they had or their regrets for missing, one comment stood out to me – calling me out for having posted similarly after some of our other meetings. No response was needed, they meant no harm by what they were saying and words couldn’t correct him because how do you tell someone about something you must experience first-hand? Your staff is incredibly humbled and proud of our membership and those of you who have gotten involved with us. We are consistently impressed by the number of volunteers that step up to help us with any and all projects. From laying sod for “Inside the Ropes” and attending one of our regional meetings, to stopping by our office or just calling to tell us about an idea; each event grows in the number of members that are involved. We want others to experience this and ask that you work with us on one way or another getting involved in the organization. We pride ourselves on being a member-driven organization and while we have made tremendous progress, there is still a lot more that we can be doing together. We need your ideas and help to accomplish
The Importance of Worker’s Compensation Class Codes Workers’ Compensation class codes are designed to accurately identify various workplace exposures, and are assigned to differentiate between the various job duties performed by employees. These codes are the basis for both pricing and underwriting workers compensation insurance rates. Because each code has its own rate for the purpose of calculating premium on a policy, proper classification is important. Incorrect risk classifications often results in premium that is higher or lower than it should be.
“All packed up and ready to head back home. A big thank you to Charlotte for showing our members a good time. This meeting was one for the books. It’s not everyday that you can get such a great group of people together for a week of education, camaraderie and cocktails. Great golf outing and auction! We are humbled to be taking home over $100,000 for our Sticks for Kids program. Safe travels everyone and see you all next time.”
this. Look ahead at our calendar of events on our gcbaa.org website and see where you might be able to join us. Also keep an eye out for new committees that need help along with our upcoming GCBAA Board of Directors election. We would love to have you get involved with us and see what we mean when we celebrate the conclusion of another event that outdoes the one before. We hope you enjoyed this special issue and we appreciate all your support.
With approximately 700 different classifications, each representing specific and different workplace exposures, the use of an improper code is easy to do. For golf course builders, a common error is classifying most of their payroll as “Landscape Gardening – 0042.” Every golf course builder should have a portion of payroll classified for landscape gardening; however, a majority of payroll should be classified as “Grading of Land & Excavation NOC – 6217.” The reason for this lies in the definition of these codes: Code 0042 includes laying out grounds, planting trees, shrubs, flowers, or lawns – it does not result in changes to the contour of the land. Excavation, filling or backfilling, or grading should be separately rated as Code 6217. Don’t let improper class codes cost you. Get assistance with your workers’ compensation classifications by contacting Chip Bryant, CIC, AAI, LMC Insurance & Risk Management Account Executive at 402-870-0603 or chip.bryant@lmcins.com.
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