Happy New Year

May the year 2010 bring for you happiness, success and be filled with peace, hope & togetherness of your family & friends... Wishing you a... HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Historical Timeline of Golf - 4 of 4 - 1956 to 2004

1956 - The current yardage guides for par are adopted by the USGA.

1961 - Gary Player becomes the first foreign player to win The Masters.

1961 - Charlie Sifford becomes the first black golfer to play in a PGA co-sponsored tournament in the south.

1962 - Jack Nicklaus wins his first professional tournament, the U.S. Open.

1963 - Arnold Palmer becomes the first professional to earn over $100,000 in official prize money one year.

1972 - Spalding introduces the first two-piece ball, the Top-Flite.

1973 - The graphite shaft is invented.

1974 - The Tournament Players Championship is inaugurated.

1976 - The USGA institutes the Overall Distance Standard- golf balls that fly more than 280 yards during a standard test are banned.

1979 - The Ryder Cup is reformatted to add European continent players.

1980 - Tom Watson is the first golfer to earn $500,000 in prize money in a single season.


1980- The Senior PGA Tour is born with four official events.

1985 - The USGA introduces the Slope System to allow golfers to adjust their handicaps to allow for the relative difficulty of a golf course compared to players own ability.

1986 - Jack Nicklaus wins his 18th and final professional major, The Masters. This is his 20th overall.

1988 - Curtis Strange becomes the first player to win over $1,000,000 in a single season.

1990 - The Ben Hogan Tour is launched as a minor league PGA Tour. Now called The Nationwide Tour.

1991 -Oversized metal woods are introduced, with Callaway Golf’s Big Bertha quickly establishing itself as the dominant brand.

1993 - An ownership group led by Joe Gibbs and Arnold Palmer announce plans for The Golf Channel, a 24- hour, 365 –day cable service

1994 - Tiger Woods becomes the youngest man to ever win the U.S. Amateur, at age 18.

1996 - In September Tiger Woods turns professional and plays in his first PGA Tour event as a pro in Milwaukee, WI.

1997 - In his first major championship as a professional, Tiger Woods becomes the youngest-ever Masters Champion at 21 years 3 months, while setting the 72 hole scoring record of 270 (18 under par)

2000 - Tiger Woods records lowest 72 hole score in relation to par at minus 12 and his margin of victory of 15 strokes is the largest ever in any major. He also has $9,188,321 in official earning during the year

2004 - Michelle Wie at age 14 becomes the youngest female to play in a PGA Tour event. She misses the cut by only one stroke.

Tom Dale Retains CGCS Certification

Congratulations to Tom Dale, Golf Course Superintendent at The Links at Brigantine for having completed his recertification and retaining the designation as of Certified Golf Course Superintendent.

Certification is achieved through the GCSAA which offers golf course superintendents a professional certification program enabling them to be recognized for their superior levels of achievement in golf course management. The professional designation (CGCS) Certified Golf Course Superintendent is bestowed upon those who voluntarily meet the stringent requirements. This designation is the most widely recognized in the golf industry and the highest level of recognition to be achieved. Only 25% of GCSAA Class A members are certified golf course superintendents.

"Achieving certification is a great accomplishment but having maintained certification since 1990 is a true testament to Tom's dedication to our industry" commented Tyler Minamyer, IGM Regional Manager.

From the entire IGM team, congratulations Tom!

December Anniversaries

We would like to recognize the following team members who have demonstrated their continued commitment to excellence and have reached important milestones with IGM.

8 Years
Alan Jackson - Superintendent - IGM at Polo Grounds

5 Years
Chuck Carnite - Equipment Tech - IGM at ViewPoint

3 Years

Stanley Doughman - Equipment Tech - IGM at Ridgewood Lakes

1 Year

Douglas Kirkland - Irrigation Tech - IGM at Savannahs

Thanks to each of you for your efforts in making IGM the leader in the golf maintenance industry. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.

December Birthdays

Members of the IGM Team with November birthdays:

Robert Tramel - Assistant Superintendent - IGM at Savannahs
Sean Gillen - Assistant Superintedent - IGM at Sandridge
Francis Gilbert - Assistant Superintedent - IGM Country Creek
Douglas Kirkland - Irrigation Tech - IGM at Savannahs
David Kepperling - Irrigation Tech - IGM at Cler Brook
Emiliano Del Rosal - Crew Foreman - IGM at Brays Island
Gary Glisson - Equipment Tech - IGM at Four Lakes
Francisco Larios-Hernandez - Crew Leader - IGM at Bray Island
Nicholas MacArthur - Assisant Superintendent - IGM at SilverStone
William Dabney - Superintendent - IGM at Cler Brook
David Kiesow - Superintendent - IGM at Tarpon Springs
Paul Illgen - Superintendent - IGM at Highland Lakes
Greg Plotner - Vice President - IGM Corporate

We wish each of you a very Happy Birthday!

Congratulations to Nick & Carly MacArthur

Congratulations to Nick & Carly MacArthur on the birth of their daughter. Chloe Grace was born on November 30, 2009 at 11:26am weighing 7 pounds, 2 ounces and 19" long.

Nick is Assistant Superintendent for IGM at SilverStone in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Historical Timeline of Golf - 3 of 4 - 1900 to 1956

1905 - The first dimple-pattern for golf balls is patented by William Taylor in England

1906 - Goodrich introduces a golf ball with a rubber core filled with compressed air. The “Pneu-matic” proves quite lively, but also prone to explode in warm weather, often in a golfer’s pocket. The ball is eventually discontinued; at this time the Haskell ball achieves a dominance of the golf ball market.

1916 - The PGA Of America is founded by 82 charter members and the PGA Championship is inaugurated. Jim Barnes is first champion.

1922 - The Walker Cup Match is instituted. Two direct descendants of the cup Founder George Herbert Walker would become President of the United States- his grandson George H. W. Bush, 41st President, and his great grandson George W. Bush, 43rd President.

1924 - The USGA legalizes steel shafted clubs.

1927 - The inaugural Ryder Cup Matches are played between Britain and the U.S.

1931 - The USGA increases the minimum size of the ball from 1.62” to 1.68” and decreases the maximum weight from 1.62 ounces to 1.55 ounces. This ball, labeled the “balloon ball” is universally despised and eventually the USGA raises the weight back to 1.62 ounces.

1934 - The first Masters is played. Horton Smith is first champion.

1934 - The official U.S. PGA Tour is created.

1938 - The Palm Beach Invitational becomes the first tournament to make a contribution to charity.

1938 - The 14-club rule is instituted.

1945 - Byron Nelson wins 18 tournaments in calendar year to set the all time PGA record. Nelson wins 11 straight events during the year.

1946 - U.S. Women’s Open is instituted. Patty Berg is first winner.

1947 - Golf is televised for the first time, in a local St. Louis telecast of U.S. Open.

1948 - The U.S. Junior Amateur is instituted. Ken Venturi loses to Dean Lind in the first final.

1950 - The Ladies Professional Golfers Association is founded. (LPGA)

1954 - The U.S. Open is nationally televised for the first time.

1956 - The current yardage guides for par are adopted by the USGA.

Happy Thanksgiving

We would like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.

During this time as we look to those things that we all most thankful for, it is important not to forget the men and women of the US Armed Forces both past and present. On this day of thanks be sure to let those who have served or are serving our country know how thankful we are for them.

November Anniversaries

We would like to recognize the following team members who have demonstrated their continued commitment to excellence and have reached important milestones with IGM.

8 Years
Dustin Plemons – Superintendent – IGM at Ridgewood Lakes

5 years
William Dabney – Superintendent – IGM at Cler Brook

3 years
David Souder – Equipment Tech – IGM at Sandridge

2 years
Robert Johnson – Equipment Tech – IGM at Pine Lakes
David Bair – Irrigation Tech – IGM at Heritage Greens

1 year
Roger Heckel – Assistant Superintendent – IGM at Tarpon Springs
Emiliano Del Rosal – Crew Foreman – IGM at Brays Island

Thanks to each of you for your efforts in making IGM the leader in the golf maintenance industry. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.

November Birthdays

Members of the IGM Team with November birthdays:

Andy Fowler - Assistant Superintendent - IGM at Waynesville
Lonnie Smith - Assistant Superintendent - IGM at Ridgewood Lakes
Martin Bojorquez - Irrigation Tech - IGM at Date Palm
Wayne Deese - Irrigation Tech - IGM at Sandridge
Martin Contreras - Crew Foreman - IGM at SilverStone
Jeff Miller - Superintendent - IGM at Waynesville
Scott Merritt - Superintendent - IGM at ViewPoint
Chester Guzek - Superintendent - IGM at Lake of the Woods
Dustin Plemons - Superintendent - IGM at Ridgewood Lakes
Jim Moller - Superintendent - IGM at Habitat
Aaron Warstler - Superintendent - IGM at Terraverde
Steve Gano - Vice President - IGM Corporate

We wish each of you a very Happy Birthday!

Historical Timeline of Golf - 2 of 4 - 1800 to 1900

1810 - Earliest recorded reference to a women’s competition at Musselburgh.

1826 - Hickory imported from America is used in making golf shafts.

1848 - The invention of the “guttie”, the gutta-percha ball. It flies farther than previous balls and is much less expensive. It contributes greatly to the expansion of the game.

1859 - The first Amateur Championship is won by George Condie of Perth.

1861 - The Open Championship is born. Commonly referred to as The British Open. It is won by Old Tom Morris.

1867 - The Ladies’ Golf Club at St. Andrews is founded. The first golf club for women.

1884 - The Oakhurst Golf Club is founded at White Sulphur Springs, W.V. The first hole at The Homestead survives from this course and is the oldest golf hole in America.

1894 - The United States Golf Association is formed (USGA). The governing body of golf in the United States.

1895 - The U.S. Amateur Championship is instituted. The first U.S. Open is held the following day. Horace Rawlins is the champion.

1898 - The term “birdie” is coined at Atlantic C.C. from “ a bird of a hole”

1899 - The Western Open is first played at Glenview C.C., the first tournament that would evolve into the PGA Tour.

IGM's Robert Diebold Represents SNGCSA at GCSAA Chapter Delegates Meeting

On October 10th & 11th, the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America held its 17th Annual Chapter Delegates meeting in Lawrence, Kansas. In attendance was Robert Diebold, IGM's West Coast Regional Manager. Robert was selected to represent the Southern Nevada GCSA by the other members of the Association's Board of Directors in which he currently serves. The meeting covered a wide range of topics, including the state of the golf economy, association governance, golf’s relationship with the environment and membership growth and retention.

"Being a part of the SNGCSA board and attending the delegates meeting are terrific experiences. Each of us in the turf industry should take time to participate with our local and national professional associations. Our contributions will help to advance the image of our profession and to grow our industry." commented Robert.

Steve Gano, IGM Vice President went on to add "IGM supports and encourages all of our team members to be active with their local associations, civic groups and charities. We are not only a part of the golf industry but also a part of each of the communities in which we operate."

Some interesting facts about the US golf industry shared from the meeting:

• Golf is played by more that 28 million people


• The industry provides more than 2 million jobs with a total wage of over 61 billion dollars


• The total direct economic impact of golf is 76 billion dollars with an indirect impact of 195 billion dollars


• The golf industry is larger than the motion picture industry, performing arts and spectator sports as well as the newspaper industry

For more information on IGM and the professional golf course services offered, please contact the IGM Business Development Office at 800-413-5500 or on the web at www.igminc.net.

Historical Timeline of Golf - 1 of 4 - 1354 to 1800

1354 - The first recorded reference to “chole”, the probable antecedent to golf.

1452 - King James II of Scotland bans the playing of the game, along with soccer, because it is keeping his subjects from archery practice.

1502 - With the signing of the Treaty of Glasgow between England and Scotland, the ban on golf is lifted.

1552 - First recorded evidence of golf at St. Andrews. Considered by most the “Cradle of Golf.”

1567 - Mary, Queen of Scots is the first known female golfer.

1659 - Golf is banned from the streets of Albany, N.Y. the first reference to golf in America.

1744 - The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers is formed, playing at Leith Links. It is the first golf club.

1754 - The first codified Rules of Golf published by St. Andrews Golfers.

1759 - Earliest reference to stroke play at St. Andrews. Previously all play was match.

1768 - The Golf House at Leith is erected. It is the first golf clubhouse.

1786 - The South Carolina Golf Club is formed in Charleston, the first golf club outside of the United Kingdom.

Chester Guzek & Matt Sobotka Take 2nd Straight Joe Saylor Title

Chester Guzek and Matt Sobotka of IGM at Lake of the Woods successfully defended their title of Overall Gross Champions at the 5th Annual Joe Saylor Memorial Golf Tournament. Against a full field of 124 players at The Foundry Golf Club in Powhatan, Virginia they shot an impressive 7 under, 65.

Sponsored in part by IGM, the event benefited the US Marine Corp Toys for Tots program. In addition to the entry fee, each participant brought a toy to donate to the drive. For more information about Toys for Tots please visit http://www.toysfortots.org/.

The tournament is put on in honor of Joe Saylor. Joe was a great servant to golf and his profession as a Superintendent in the Hampton Roads/Tidewater Virgina area for nearly 40 years.

Bobby Jacoby - 25 Years & Counting

In a time when a triplex can have a longer tenure at a course than a Golf Course Superintendent, the benchmark set by Bobby Jacoby is something very few will ever achieve. Bobby has reached the 25 year mark with Highland Fairways Country Club.

Bobby was born and raised in Lakeland, Florida. His interest golf started when he was six or seven, shagging balls at the golf course across the street from where he grew up. He joined the team at Highland Fairways as the grow in superintendent in 1985 and has since led the course through housing development, hurricanes and every agronomic challenge you can imagine.

Bobby joined the IGM Team in 1999 and continued to lead the course maintenance operation. Bobby attributes his ability to keep up with the changing industry by "reading, reading, reading, going to seminars and discussion groups".

He is truly an asset to Highland Fairways and to the IGM Team. Congratulations Bobby!

IGM at Brays Island Plantation Completes First Step in Audubon Certification

IGM at Brays Island Plantation has received certification in Environmental Planning from the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses (ACSP), an international program administered by Audubon International designed to help landowners preserve and enhance the environmental quality of their property. The plan was developed by Tray Maltby, Golf Course Superintendent, and Bruce Lampright, Brays Island's Naturalist. Both are also recognized for their efforts to plan for environmental stewardship.

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses provides an advisory service to help existing golf courses develop effective conservation and wildlife enhancement programs. This worldwide effort is coordinated by Audubon International and is sponsored in part by the United States Golf Association.

"The open space of a golf course is utilized not only by golfers, but is habitat for a variety of wildlife species," explained Jim Sluiter, Staff Ecologist for Audubon International. "We welcome IGM at Brays Island Plantation’s commitment to the environment and to managing the golf course with wildlife in mind."

By joining and participating in the ACSP, IGM at Brays Island Plantation will be involved in projects that enhance habitat for wildlife and preserve natural resources for the benefit of the local community. These projects may include: placing nesting boxes for cavity-nesting birds such as bluebirds and swallows, utilizing integrated pest management techniques, conserving water, and maintaining food and cover for wildlife.

"The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program benefits both people and wildlife," said Sluiter. "It's a great way for the managers of developed properties and environmental organizations to work together to become better stewards of land and natural resources."

After the environmental plan is approved, properties in the program may apply for certification in Wildlife and Habitat Management, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, Water Quality Management, and Outreach and Education by demonstrating that they have met minimum requirements for each category. For more information on golf and the environment, visit www.golfandenvironment.org.

About Audubon International
Audubon International is an environmental organization dedicated to educating, assisting, and inspiring millions of people from all walks of life to protect and sustain the land, water, wildlife, and natural resources around them. In addition to businesses, Audubon International also provides programs for golf courses, schools, communities, and new developments. For more information, contact Audubon International, 46 Rarick Rd., Selkirk, NY 12158, USA, (518) 767-9051, e-mail them via the Internet at acsp@auduboninternational.org, or visit their website at www.auduboninternational.org.

Playing Par with Jack Frost

By Charles B. White
Director, Southeastern Region, USGA Green Section

As winter begins, the golfer lays aside his clubs for a time and settles down to watch football. But, loving the game, our minds quickly return to golf, and our bodies avidly follow. Thus we encounter an age-old problem: morning delays to allow the frost to clear or enable the green surface to thaw. Often a confrontation arises between the golf professional and/or the superintendent on one side and club members on the other. Consider the problems of playing greens in the winter when frost or freezing occurs, and why play must be delayed, or even prevented, for a period of time.

Everyone knows frost must clear off the grass before play can begin, but few people know why. Frost on the grass blades tells us that the water inside the leaves is frozen. Remember that water is the primary component of plant tissue. When this water is frozen, traffic on the turf causes the ice crystals in the cells to puncture through the cell walls, killing the plant tissue. Little damage is done to the crowns (growing points) or roots if only a light frost appears; however, when the frost is heavy, cell disruption may occur at the crown, thus killing the entire plant. Frost damage symptoms include white to light tan leaves where traffic has passed. The simplest approach is to avoid traffic until the frost melts.

Another dangerous situation exists when the soil is completely frozen to the surface but the grass blades have thawed. Provided there is no frost or ice on the grass under this condition, then limited foot traffic creates little damage, if any.

At these times, heavy traffic or golf carts should be restricted from greens, tees and even fairways. This is the most favorable winter conditions, because when the soil is frozen it does not allow as much penetration of compaction and spikes, thus preventing damage to the grass roots. Since the blades are not frozen, they retain the resiliency needed to withstand light foot traffic.

Traffic damage on frozen turf areas usually occurs during periods of freezing or thawing. The most devastating situation occurs when the grass blades and the upper one-half to one inch of soil has thawed, but the ground beneath their level remains frozen. Traffic will create a shearing action of the roots, rhizomes, and crown tissues at this time. This is comparable to cutting the plant tissue from the underlying root system with a sod cutter. Complete kill of leaves, crowns, and rhizomes can occur if the temperatures soon drop below 20° F. Symptoms from this severe injury include whitish to dark brown leaves that may mat on the surface.

Once temperatures allow thawing to a depth of three to four inches, the probability of turf damage declines since about 75 percent of the root system is in the upper four inches of soil. Frequently soil probing is the only positive way to effectively monitor the freezing level. Traffic should be adjusted accordingly.

Many letters and articles are published every year in an attempt to educate golfers to the potential problems of playing on frozen or partially frozen turfgrass areas. Golf course superintendents or club officials should educate golfers in the fall regarding the problems with playing frozen greens so the golfers themselves have a better understanding of the damage that occurs when traffic is imposed on frozen or partially frozen turf. In most cases, informing golfers of suspended play due to frozen greens is inadequate and sounds more like an excuse than a reason. However, if care is taken to educate members through a seminar, newsletter in the golf shop, or a handout distributed directly, it will help members understand exactly what happens when foot traffic is placed on frozen and partially frozen putting surfaces, and it also informs them of winter traffic damage to the turf in general.

If the golf course superintendents and other club officials make a concentrated effort to educate their membership as to why traffic is not allowed on the golf course on particular winter days, they will gain support and will eliminate the current Saturday morning standoffs at the pro shop and the descriptive name-calling sessions which inevitably arise.

Reprinted from the USGA Green Section Record
1984 Sept/Oct Vol 22(5): 8

Brian Certo Joins IGM Team

Brian Certo has joined the IGM Team as Assistant Golf Course Superintendent for IGM at Heritage Greens in Naples, Florida.

After fifteen years in the construction industry, Brain took the initial steps of a career change on a path to become a Golf Course Superintendent. He returned to college and graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from the State University of New York at Delhi’s Turf Management program. He achieved honors every semester and following an internship at Quail West in Naples, Florida, he accepted a position as the Assistant Superintendent at Riverfront Golf Course in Suffolk, Virginia. Brian career growth took him on to a private, Top 100 Jack Nicholas Signature course in Charlotte, North Carolina then to Collier‘s Reserve Country Club in Naples, Florida before joining IGM.

"We are excited about having Brian on the team and expect that his experience and enthusiasm will be great assets to our operation" said Brian Kinney, Golf Course Superintendent for IGM at Heritage Greens.

Links at Brigantine Beach Staffer Jeremy Williams Scores Ace

Jeremy Williams, a member of the maintenance staff at The Links at Brigantine Beach recorded his first ace on September 17, 2009. The former member of the Atlantic City High School Golf Team made the shot on the 143 yard number 7 using a 9 iron. Two club members and Golf Course Superintendent Tom Dale were on hand the witness the event.

Tom Dale laughed while recalling the shot, "I had just gotten finished telling the members that he was a very good golfer. He proved it!"

IGM Expands Again in the Southeast

CHAMPIONSGATE, Fla.; October 13, 2009 - International Golf Maintenance, a world leader in golf course maintenance has added The Sebastian Municipal Golf Course to its portfolio in the southeastern United States. “We are very pleased to welcome the City of Sebastian to the IGM family”, said Greg Plotner, Executive Vice President of IGM. “We look forward to enhancing the enjoyment of the local residents, and ensure the golf course is a source of pride for the entire community.”

This 18 hole, municipal course is located on Florida’s east coat, in beautiful Sebastian, Florida. "We are excited about joining IGM, they share our passion for delivering the highest quality golf maintenance services” said Greg Gardner, Director of Golf.

About IGM
As the nation’s leading golf course maintenance company and the agronomic subsidiary of Meadowbrook Golf, IGM contracts with golf courses and country clubs to handle all aspects of turf and grounds maintenance. From personnel to equipment issues, IGM develops maintenance programs that incorporate all the resources necessary to meet the agronomic needs of the customers’ facilities – many times at a savings compared with historical spending.

For more information on IGM and the professional golf course services offered, please contact Jennifer Bogucki, Public Relations Manager at (800) 413-5500. Additional information, including an electronic version of this release may also be obtained via the internet by visiting IGM’s website at http://www.igminc.net.

Blackthorn Earns US Commerce Association Award

WASHINGTON D.C., June 8, 2009 - City Of South Bend has been selected for the 2009 Best of South Bend Award in the Public Golf Courses category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA).

The USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2009 USCA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USCA and data provided by third parties.

About Blackthorn:
Designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, ASGCA, the Blackthorn Golf Club opened in August of 1994. The 18-hole course in South Bend, IN has a 7136-yard layout with four sets of tees which offer a strategic test for golfers of all abilities. For more information about the course, visit http://www.blackthorngolf.com/.

October Anniversaries

We would like to recognize the following team members who have demonstrated their continued commitment to excellence and have reached important milestones with IGM.

10 Years
John Filbert III – Equipment Technician – IGM at Sandridge

8 Years
Todd Hugill – Superintendent – IGM at Widows Walk

6 Years
Juan Villegas – Assistant Superintendent – IGM at Mystic Dunes

4 Years
Winfield Yount – Superintendent – IGM at Sandridge

3 Years
David Kepperling – Irrigation Technician – IGM at Cler Brook
Tommy Coffey – Superintendent – IGM at Grand Palms
Martin Suarez – Assistant Superintendent – IGM at Silver Lakes
Art Hampton – Dir of Maintenance – IGM at ChampionsGate

2 Years
Homer Ramsier – Equipment Technician – IGM at North Palm Beach
Joda Brown – Superintendent – IGM at Country Wood
Shane McGuire – Superintendent – IGM at North Palm Beach

1 Year
Daryl Morris – Equipment Technician – IGM at North Palm Beach
Timothy Millett – Crew Foreman – IGM at King’s Point

Thanks to each of you for your efforts in making IGM the leader in the golf maintenance industry. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.

October Birthdays

Members of the IGM Team with October birthdays:

Stanley Doughman – Equipment Tech – IGM at Ridgewood Lakes
Steve Adams – Superintendent – IGM at King’s Grant
Otis Griffin – Assistant Superintendent – IGM at Highland Lakes
Richard Chandler – Equipment Technician – IGM at Highland Lakes
John Lecour – Irrigation Technician – IGM at Habitat
Kenton Kiley – Assistant Superintendent – IGM at Sandridge
Clemente Lopes – Irrigation Technician – IGM at Silverstone
Robert Diebold – Regional Manager – West Coast
Juan Villegas – Assistant Superintendent – IGM at Mystic Dunes
John Weathers – Assistant Superintendent – IGM at Mystic Dunes
Alan Jackson – Superintendent – IGM at Polo Grounds
Andres Lugo – Irrigation Technician – IGM at Silverstone
Martin Soria – Irrigation Technician – IGM at Ridgewood Lakes
Laura Liffiton – Administrative Assistant – IGM Corporate Office

We wish each of you a very Happy Birthday!

USGA Green Section Southeast Regional Update

A Matter of Respect
By Chris Hartwiger and Patrick O’Brien , USGA SE Region Agronomists

What do David Duval and Patrick O’Brien have in common? They both were faced with a plugged and unplayable lie in a bunker during the final round of a major championship. For David, the setting was the U.S. Open at Bethpage. For Patrick, it was the Brunswick Invitational. How should these situations be interpreted? Are these golfers the victim of the wrong sand, poor maintenance, or substandard design? Or are bad lies part of the game? These questions are brought up regularly on USGA Turfgrass Advisory Service visits. We have encountered course officials and golfers who at one time or another have eagerly argued each of the scenarios above. This regional update will sort out some facts, state our position, and provide some information to answer this question.

What is a Bunker?
According to the USGA Rules of Golf, a bunker “is a hazard consisting of a prepared area of ground, often a hollow, from which turf or soil has been removed and replaced with sand or the like.”

Although this definition is straightforward, golfers sometimes are confused with regard to the definition of a hazard. We have been told many times by golfers and course officials that in a properly maintained hazard, in this case a bunker, there would never be any plugged lies. In fact, we are told that every time a ball enters this hazard, the lie should be consistent.

Let’s begin to sort out these claims by going straight to the dictionary and see the first two definitions of hazard.

Hazard [haz-erd] - noun
1. an unavoidable danger or risk, even though often foreseeable.
2. something causing unavoidable danger, peril, risk, or difficulty.

Overall, it appears this hazard in golf is not a happy place to be.

Does design influence playability?
Yes, it is generally accepted that flat bottom bunkers wash out less frequently and severely. Maintaining a firm surface is easier in a flat bottom bunker. However, difficult lies are possible in flat bottom bunkers in the areas where the grass and sand meet. Bunkers with flashed faces will wash out more frequently, but balls are more likely to roll to a low spot away from the edge. Any time sand washes out and must be replaced with fresh sand, it will be softer than sand that has not been washed out.

Does the type of sand impact playability?
Yes, sand impacts playability; however, there is no sand that will satisfy all the people all of the time. There is no bunker sand that comes with a guarantee of no bad lies.

Does maintenance affect playability?
Yes, although there is a misconception among many golfers that bunkers can be “consistent”, nothing could be further from the truth. Bunkers are influenced by sun, rain, position in relation to the sun, degree to which they wash in a rain, how golfers enter and exit, etc. This implies that the bunkers can be maintained in a consistent fashion by using the same method to groom all of them, but the outcome of golf shots hit into a bunker can vary not only from bunker to bunker, but even from within the same bunker.

The Bottom Line
David Duval and Patrick O’Brien sure got bad breaks. Unfortunately, the buck must stop with them. The Rules of Golf provided a solution for their difficulties, as unpalatable as that may have been. They were not the victim of bad design, bad maintenance, or the wrong type of sand. They both were playing an outdoor game that requires all of us to play the course as we find it. Bunkers were never intended to be targets for golf shots, nor are there any promises as to what type of lie will result. In fact, the Rules of Golf declare that they are hazards, and we now know that hazards are generally associated with risk, peril, or danger. We continue to advocate that no matter how we manipulate maintenance practices, sand types, and designs, there will continue to be good lies in bunkers and bad ones, too.

Source: Patrick O'Brien or patobrien@usga.org and Chris Hartwiger or chartwiger@usga.org.

Mystic Dunes to Raise Funds for American Cancer Society

Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club will raise funds for the American Cancer Society by hosting its 5th annual Pink Ribbon Golf Classic on Friday, October 9, 2009

"We are proud of our company's commitment to community service, and we invite our friends, neighbors and community partners to join us for a fun day of golf and camaraderie in support of this great cause that touches the lives of so many," said Roger Farwell, President and CEO of Tempus Resorts International, parent company of Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club.

The tournament will feature a four-person scramble format. Registration will begin at 12:00 noon and the scramble starts at 1:00 p.m. A reception including a silent and live auction will round out the day. Tournament fees are $95 per player or $350 per foursome, with proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society. Mystic Dunes Golf Club is located at Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club, 7900 Mystic Dunes Lane, Celebration, FL 34747. Pre-registration for the tournament is required and can be done by visiting www.mysticdunesgolf.com or by calling 407-787-5678 or 866-311-1234.

A limited number of hole sponsorships are available. Hole sponsors receive sign recognition on 1 of 18 holes during the event, positioning on all LeaderBoard presentations throughout the day, and the option to place a promotional item in the tee gift bag. Companies interested in becoming a hole sponsor may contact Keith Bielski at 407-787-5639 or bielskik@tempusresorts.net.

About Mystic Dunes Golf Club
Maintained by IGM, Mystic Dunes Golf Club, a high-end daily fee course, is open to the public and is located at Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club in Celebration, Florida, which is owned and operated by Tempus Resorts International, Ltd. Designed by Champions Tour player and NBC Golf Analyst Gary Koch, this premier Central Florida course is a par 71, 7,012-yard golfer's dream. The course is ranked a 4 ½-star facility among Golf Digest's "Best Places to Play", has been honored as a Course of Distinction among Golfweek's "Best Resort Courses", and is ranked #2 among "Orlando's Top 5 Golf Courses" by TravelGolf.com. Tee times can be booked online at www.mysticdunesgolf.com or by calling the pro shop at (866) 311-1234 or (407) 787-5678.

Why aerify?

It's a perfect, sunny morning and you've just reached the first green in regulation. You feel great and you know you're within birdie range. Then, you see them, those little holes in the green. Arrrgh! They've just aerified the course, and it's going to ruin your round, right?

Well, maybe not. Consider the fact that PGA Tour legend Tom Watson shot a sizzling record 58 at his then-home course, Kansas City Country Club, just days after the greens had been aerified.

Consider also that aerification is merely a short-term disruption that has long-term benefits for the course. When you see them, remember that without those little holes, the greens would eventually die.

Like so many things, the quality of a good putting green is more than skin deep. In fact, the condition of a green has a lot to do with what goes on below the surface. In order to keep grass growing at 3/16-inch you have to have deep, healthy roots. Good roots demand oxygen. In good soil, they get the oxygen from tiny pockets of air trapped between soil and sand particles.

Over time, the traffic from golfers' feet (as well as heavy mowing equipment) tends to compact the soil under the putting green - particularly when the soil contains a lot of clay. When soil becomes compacted, the air pockets on which the roots depend are crushed, and the roots are essentially left gasping for air. Without oxygen, the grass plants will wither and die.

Aerification is a mechanical process that creates more air space in the soil and promotes deeper rooting, thus helping the grass plants stay healthy. In most cases, it's done by removing 1/2-inch cores (those plugs you sometimes see near a green or in fairways). The spaces are then filled with sand "topdressing" that helps the soil retain air space and makes it easier for roots to grow downward.

Other aerification techniques use machines with "tines" or knives that simply poke holes through the soil profile. A newer technique even uses ultra high-pressure water that's injected through the soil profile to create small holes that relieve some compaction but heal quickly.

The bottom line is that aerification is a necessary practice. But before you curse the superintendent for ruining your day, just think of Tom Watson.

Source: http://www.gcsaa.org/solutions/facts/aerify.aspx

September Anniversaries

We would like to recognize the following team members who have demonstrated their continued commitment to excellence and have reached important milestones with IGM.

7 Years
Daniel Wikiera - Technician - IGM at Mystic Dunes

6 Years

Bill Sheer - Superintendent - IGM at Mystic Dunes

4 Years

Paul Illgen - Superintendent - IGM at Highland Lakes

Henry Oertel - Equipment Technician - IGM at The Ledges

3 Years

Timothy Farr - Irrigation Technician - IGM at Country Wood

Enrique Castellanos - Irrigation Technician - IGM at Silverstone

2 Years

Edward Taylor - Irrigation Technician - IGM at Grand Palms

Raul Sanchez - Crew Leader - IGM at Bear Valley Springs

Jose Benitez-Macias - Assistant Superintendent - IGM at Bear Valley Springs

Todd Yandell - Equipment Technician - IGM at Bear Valley Springs

Matt Sobotka - Assistant Superintendent - IGM at Lakes of the Woods

Brad Batchelor - Superintendent - IGM at Bear Valley Springs

1 Year

Larry Haley - Equipment Technician - IGM at Brays Island

Tray Maltby - Superintendent - IGM at Brays Island

Clemente Lopes - Irrigation Technician - IGM at Silverstone

Mike Kuhn - Assistant Superintendent - IGM at Brays Island

Ricardo Pascual - Irrigation Technician - IGM at Brays Island

Roel Figueroa-Solis - Crew Leader - IGM at Brays Island

Wayne White - Assistant Superintendent - IGM at Silver Lakes

Thanks to each of you for your efforts in making IGM the leader in the golf maintenance industry. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.

September Birthdays

Members of the IGM Team with September birthdays:

Bobby Reyes - Superintendent - IGM at Date Palm

Duane Simpson - Landscape Supervisor - IGM at ViewPoint

Jim Smarz - Crew Leader - IGM at ChampionsGate

David Bair - Irrigation Technician - IGM at Heritage Greens

Bill Sheer - Superintendent - IGM at Mystic Dunes

Christopher Monserrate - Assistant Superintendent - IGM at Grand Palms

Melanie Mark - Regional Manager - SE Florida

We wish each of you a very Happy Birthday!

Order Over Disorder by Jim McLoughlin

Special thanks to Jim McLoughlin for allowing us to share his article from his Career Corner Blog on Turfnet.com.

The prevailing myth that disorderly maintenance facilities and sloppy offices are justified because of the hectic unpredictable nature of the work golf course superintendents engage in every day is the kind of thinking that could cost you your job.

This is a dangerous myth because the vast majority of those responsible for employing and monitoring superintendents’ work are successful private sector managers requiring well-organized work environments 24/7 throughout their day jobs who will instinctively think less of superintendents who tolerate disorder.

Don’t Give Them An Excuse
Through my 25-plus years of visiting America’s golf course maintenance facilities, I have seen the good, the indifferent and the bad in about equal proportions. Accordingly, I am concerned in this fiscally driven era for the job security of superintendents who marginalize facility order to whatever degree because – like being pregnant – you are either organized, or you are not and you will be judged more so now than ever before in this light in the coming year or so.

“Your employers will be entitled to conclude that your crew is likely to adopt the same indifferent commitment to excellence that you exhibit throughout your maintenance facility to their daily work assignments…“

My concern for the job security of superintendents who tolerate disorder centers around three themes: first, knowing that loosely managed maintenance facilities will always offend a segment of the people charged with the responsibility of judging your work; second, realizing that your employers will be entitled to conclude that your crew is likely to adopt the same indifferent commitment to excellence that you exhibit throughout your maintenance facility to their daily work assignments; and finally – understanding that disorder undermines crew pride in their work. Orderliness grows pride and all the good things associated with it.

You never want to give your employers another reason to take a deeper look into the prevailing question of day; i.e., whether they can justify your salary in today’s already difficult economy that everyone, including the President, advises will continue to decline for at least two more years? Accordingly, now is the time to hunker down “every which way” organization-wise to get ahead of the survival curve before circumstances deny you this opportunity.

“The organizational quality of your maintenance facility will be judged across the board at the “weakest link” level of the following three maintenance facility elements: the grounds immediate surrounding the building(s), within the equipment storage building itself and your personal office…”

The above-mentioned “every which way” concept references your need to present order over disorder throughout each of the following three elements of your maintenance facility: the grounds immediate surrounding the building(s), within the equipment storage building itself and your personal office. Borrowing from the often-used “chain” analogy – the organizational quality of your maintenance facility will be judged across the board at the “weakest link” level of

the three facility elements listed immediately above.

In this instance, one strike and you’re out.

Article shared with permission from Career Corner with Jim McLoughlin: http://turfnet.com/career
URL to article: http://turfnet.com/career/index.php/2009/08/job-securing-tip-3-order-over-disorder/

Waynesville Inn Hosts Porsche Car Show & Events

When you think about a weekend in the mountains of Western North Carolina at the Waynesville Inn Golf Resort & Spa, you might imagine great golf, relaxing at the spa, incredible scenery and a beautiful sunset. On July 24th and 25th you would gotten all that and a collection of fast, sleek Porsche sports cars.

The two day event featured a car show on the first fairway of the historic Donald Ross designed golf course. The show included competition race cars and personnel from The Racers Group as well as various driving tours, wine tastings and golf events. A portion of the proceeds from the event benefited Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation.

About Waynesville Inn Golf Resort & Spa
Visiting this historic mountain lodge is like stepping back in time, yet with all the modern amenities. Pristine mountain views are the focal point of many of our 115 rooms. While staying at our mountain retreat you won't need your car, as we have a choice of two fine and uniquely different restaurants available - only steps from your room. Like to play golf? You will have 27-holes of championship golf designed by the legendary Scottish architect Donald Ross, rated 4-stars by Golf Digest. For more information about the Waynesville Inn Golf Resort and Spa please visit www.TheWaynesvilleInn.com and see for yourself this “diamond in the rough” in Western North Carolina.

IGM Maintained Mystic Dunes to Host Patriot Day Event

Mystic Dunes Golf Club has announced plans to participate in the third annual Patriot Golf Day campaign, September 4-7, 2009. Golfers will be asked to donate a minimum of $1 to benefit the Folds of Honor Foundation® to provide post secondary educational scholarships for children and spouses of military service men and women killed or disabled while serving our great nation.

"It's easy for our guests to donate to this great cause. We simply ask golfers to add an extra dollar to their greens fee," said Mystic Dunes Director of Golf Rick Smith.

The club will also accept donations to the Folds of Honor Foundation from the general public. Monetary donations can be made at the Mystic Dunes Clubhouse, located at 7850 Shadow Tree Lane, Celebration, FL 34747.

Patriot Golf Day, the primary fund-raiser for the Folds of Honor Foundation, was created by Major Dan Rooney, a PGA Professional and USGA member from Broken Arrow, Okla. Patriot Golf Day is jointly supported by The PGA of America and the United States Golf Association and also receives support from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), Club Managers Association of America (CMAA), the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA) and from many of the country's leading golf manufacturers and media outlets. Over the past 2 years nearly 3 million dollar has been raised.

About Mystic Dunes Golf Club
Mystic Dunes Golf Club, a high-end daily fee course, is open to the public and is located at Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club in Celebration, Florida, which is owned and operated by Tempus Resorts International, Ltd. Designed by Champions Tour player and NBC Golf Analyst Gary Koch, this premier Central Florida course is a par 71, 7,012-yard golfer's dream. The course is ranked a 4 ½-star facility among Golf Digest's "Best Places to Play", has been honored as a Course of Distinction among Golfweek's "Best Resort Courses", and is ranked #2 among "Orlando's Top 5 Golf Courses" by TravelGolf.com. Tee times can be booked online at www.mysticdunesgolf.com or by calling the pro shop at (866) 311-1234 or (407) 787-5678.

IGM's Melanie Mark Recertified as CGCS

Congratulations to Melanie Mark, IGM’s East Florida Regional Manager for having completed her recertification and retaining the designation as of Certified Golf Course Superintendent. Melanie has also received special recognition for her designation as our company’s most attractive certified golf course superintendent.

Certification is achieved through the GCSAA which offers golf course superintendents a professional certification program enabling them to be recognized for their superior levels of achievement in golf course management. The professional designation (CGCS) Certified Golf Course Superintendent is bestowed upon those who voluntarily meet the stringent requirements. This designation is the most widely recognized in the golf industry and the highest level of recognition to be achieved. Only 25% of GCSAA Class A members are certified golf course superintendents.

"Melanie exemplifies the kind of hard work and dedication needed to achieve and maintain the turf industries' most prestigious designation. She is truly an asset to our team" commented Greg Plotner, IGM Executive Vice President.

From the entire IGM team, congratulations Mel!

IGM Maintained Mystic Dunes to Host Kickoff Golf Classic

Mystic Dunes would like to invite golfers to kickoff the football season at the "Kickoff Golf Classic" on August 29th, 2009 to celebrate the beginning of another great football season. This fun, two-man team scramble golf tournament is sure to offer some exciting plays. Bring your clubs, teammate, and favorite team gear while Mystic Dunes supplies all the football fun!

Registration for the two-man scramble will begin at 7:00 a.m. followed by an 8:00 a.m. shotgun start. Price includes an awards banquet and tailgate party with all your favorites!

A portion of the tournament's proceeds will benefit United Way, the nation's largest nonprofit. Since 1973, the National Football League (NFL) has partnered with United Way, and today it is the most visible and longest running charitable collaboration of its kind.

Tournament fees are $55 per player (if paying individually) or $100 per two-some (if one joint payment) plus tax. The deadline for entry is Thursday, August 27, 2009. For more information or to register for the tournament, please contact Keith Bielski at 407-787-5639 or visit the Mystic Dunes Web site at http://www.mysticdunesgolf.com/email/kickoff_09/.

About United Way
United Way is a worldwide network in 46 countries and territories, including nearly 1,300 local organizations in the U.S. that advance the common good, creating opportunities for a better life for all by focusing on the three key building blocks of education, income and health. The United Way movement creates long lasting community change by addressing the underlying causes of problems that prevent progress in these areas. LIVE UNITED is a call to action for everyone to become part of the change. For more information about United Way, please visit: LIVEUNITED.org.

About Mystic Dunes Golf Club
Mystic Dunes Golf Club, a high-end daily fee course, is open to the public and is located at Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club in Celebration, Florida, which is owned and operated by Tempus Resorts International, Ltd. Designed by Champions Tour player and NBC Golf Analyst Gary Koch, this premier Central Florida course is a par 71, 7,012-yard golfer's dream. The course is ranked a 4 ½-star facility among Golf Digest's "Best Places to Play", has been honored as a Course of Distinction among Golfweek's "Best Resort Courses", and is ranked #2 among "Orlando's Top 5 Golf Courses" by TravelGolf.com. Tee times can be booked online at www.mysticdunesgolf.com or by calling the pro shop at 866-311-1234 or 407-787-5678.

IGM at The Habitat Recognized for Environmental Excellence

We are pleased to announce that The Habitat, managed by IGM, has retained its designation as a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, an Audubon International Program. Golf Course Superintendent Jim Moller led the effort to maintain sanctuary status on the course.

A round of golf at The Habitat will yield many encounters with nature such as the Sandhill Cranes shown here crossing a bridge on the back nine. As advertised, The Habitat truly is "Where nature and golf join in harmony".

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat, and protect natural resources. Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, Mexico, and Southeast Asia have achieved certification in the program. For more information on golf and the environment, visit http://www.golfandenvironment.org/.

For more information on IGM and the professional golf course services offered, please contact the IGM Business Development Office at 800-413-5500 or on the web at www.igminc.net.

August Milestones

We would like to recognize the following team members who have demonstrated their continued commitment to excellence and have reached important milestones with IGM.

10 Years
James Moller – Superintendent – IGM at Habitat

7 Years
Richard Chandler – Equipment Technician – IGM at Highland Lakes
David Kiesow – Superintendent – IGM at Tarpon Springs

4 Years
Maurice Miyo – Superintendent – IGM at Savannahs
Martin Bojorquez – Irrigation Technician – IGM at Date Palm

3 Years
Steve Adams – Superintendent – IGM at King’s Point
Daniel Chavez – Equipment Technician – IGM at Country Creek

2 Years
Richard McQuillen – Equipment Technician – IGM at Ridgewood Lakes
Donald Bookwalter – Assistant Superintendent – IGM at ChampionsGate

1 Year
Jim Smarz – Crew Foreman – IGM at ChampionsGate

Thanks to each of you for your efforts in making IGM the leader in the golf maintenance industry. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.

August Birthdays

Members of the IGM team with August birthdays:

Robert Lendak - Equipment Technician - IGM at Silver Lakes

David Fletcher - Equipment Technician - IGM at Tarpon Springs

Dennis Welch - Equipment Technician - IGM at Country Wood

Jesus Salinas - Equipment Technician - IGM at Mirror Lakes

Chuck Carnite - Equipment Technician - IGM at ViewPoint

Edward Bakle - Assistant Superintendent - IGM at Mirror Lakes

Michael Heckenstaller - Assistant Superintendent - IGM at Habitat

Robert Cassese - Irrigation Technician - IGM at Silver Dollar

Terry Peacock - Crew Foreman - IGM at Lake Henry

We wish each of you a very Happy Birthday!

IGM's Brad Rook Recertified as CGCS

Congratulations to Brad Rook, Director of Agronomy for IGM at Silver Lakes Country Club for having completed his recertification and retaining the designation as of Certified Golf Course Superintendent. Brad was first certified on July 19th, 1994 and this is the second recertification he has completed.

Certification is achieved through the GCSAA which offers golf course superintendents a professional certification program enabling them to be recognized for their superior levels of achievement in golf course management. The professional designation (CGCS) Certified Golf Course Superintendent is bestowed upon those who voluntarily meet the stringent requirements. This designation is the most widely recognized in the golf industry and the highest level of recognition to be achieved. Only 25% of GCSAA Class A members are certified golf course superintendents.

"Achieving and maintaining such a high level of expertise in this field is truly something to be proud of" commented Steve Gano, IGM VP of Operations. The rest of us at IGM agree. Great job Brad!

Attention IGM Staff Members

Do you have a special event or a staff member accomplishment that should be recognized? An innovative idea or insight that should be shared with our other Superintendents? Want to share your Audubon and environmental stewardship success stories? Maybe just a suggestion about information that would be helpful to your own operation. Then let's put in on this blog.

Please be on the lookout for information and think about things that you might like to share. Any suggestions/information can be sent to tminamyer@igminc.net. Thanks in advance for your participation!

Ridgewood Lakes to Host Duramed Futures Tour Qualifying School

Meadowbrook Golf managed, Ridgewood Lakes Golf & Country Club has been selected to be one of four Polk County, Florida courses to host this year's Duramed Futures Tour Qualifying School. The event will be held from November 2nd to 6th.

The Duramed Future Tour is the developmental tour of the LPGA and features some world's best golfers and had more than 500 players who have gone on to the LPGA. Alumnae of the tour include Christie Kerr, Karrie Webb, Grace Park, Christina Kim and Lorena Ochoa to name just a few.

"It's exciting to have been selected to be a host for event like this. This will be a great opportunity to showcase the great condition and terrific layout of the course" commented Golf Course Superintendent Dustin Plemons.

IGM Superintendent Tray Maltby Connects Golf Maintenance with Nature

Golf and the environment go hand in hand. Each of the IGM Golf Course Superintendents takes their role as stewards of the environment very seriously.

Recently, IGM Superintendent Tray Maltby had an opportunity to share how our team works to provide great course conditions while still maintaining our commitment to the conservation of our natural resources.

During a tour of the golf course with the Nature Group at Brays Island Plantation, Tray was able to share how utilizing techniques such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM) are important. He also outlined with the group the process involved with having the course certified in the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP). The course was recently enrolled in the program by IGM as part of our commitment to have all of our maintained properties participate in and complete the program.

Bruce Lampright the Naturalist for Brays Island organized the tour and has been a huge supporter of the golf course initiatives and the ACSP program. Bruce explained one the goals of this process, “With participation in the ACSP we hope to change the perception of our owners and guests that a golf course can coexist with and support nature. Educated property owners will soon come to realize what a rich sanctuary for plants and animals a golf course can become.”
Tray went on to add, "With the help of Bruce and others at the plantation, we are currently working to complete the Audubon Site Assessment. It is helping us to identify what areas we are achieving our goals and also where our efforts should be focused in the future. Brays Island is a preserve by design and helping to ensure that it continues to be one is a very rewarding feeling for all of us".

About Brays Island Plantation
Brays Island Plantation is a private 5,500 acre plantation with only 325 home sites and 3,500 acres set aside as a nature and hunting preserve, Brays Island is committed to protecting the surrounding environment while maintaining the sporting lifestyle of a traditional Lowcountry plantation. Amenities include world class horseback riding, hunting, shooting sports, fishing and a Ron Garl designed links style golf course.

Golf Ventures & Golf Ventures West - Keeping IGM Current with Products & Technology

Staying on top of the turf industry's latest products and newest technology is no small task. It is however necesary in order to provide the best possible golf course conditions at the most competative cost. IGM has a distinct advantage in this area with the support of our industry leading supply partners Golf Ventures and Golf Ventures West.

Since its inception in 1986, GV has been Florida’s one-stop maintenance supply company for the golf course industry. Golf Ventures joined the Meadowbrook family in 1998 and has the industry advantage and leadership to be the premier provider and partner for the Meadowbrook Golf/IGM properties. Golf Ventures expanded West into California, Arizona, Nevada and Baha in 2004 and quickly became the leader in the turf grass maintenance industry again with premier partners Helena and Jacobsen.

Golf Ventures product lines include, Helena Plant Protectants and Fertilizers, Jacobsen Equipment and Allied Products (A Textron Company), Turfseed, Inc., Par Aide, Standard and Landmark Accessories, Grigg Brothers, PSA+, Nutramax, Emerald Isle. Fox Valley Paints, Contract Services and several other high quality agronomic Specialty Product lines.

To see what sets our maintenance, management and supply team apart from the others, contact the IGM Business Development Office at 800-413-5500 or on the web at http://www.igminc.net/, http://www.golfventuresonline.com/ or http://www.gvwest.com/.

IGM & Blackthorn Golf Club - Teamwork Leads to Golfweek Honor

Golfweek has published their 2009 Top 50 Municipal Golf Courses Listing, naming IGM maintained golf course, Blackthorn Golf Club.

Golfweek's Best Municipal Courses list features the nation's top 50 government owned golf courses that truly possess the highest standard for public golf. “It is very rewarding to have Blackthorn named in Golfweek Magazine’s 2009 top municipal courses listing,” said IGM’s Executive Vice President, Greg Plotner. “I congratulate all of those who performed at the exceptionally high level required to receive such an accolade. It’s an honor to be recognized in the same category with the top rate golf clubs that also made this year’s list.”

To produce the Golfweek's Best Municipal Courses list, a nationwide team of more than 475 evaluators rated the layouts on the basis of 10 criteria - including routing, conditioning, variety and memorability of holes.

About Blackthorn:
Designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, ASGCA, the Blackthorn Golf Club opened in August of 1994. The 18-hole course in South Bend, IN has a 7136-yard layout with four sets of tees which offer a strategic test for golfers of all abilities.

“IGM’s extensive experience contributed to the successful execution of our bunker project, and we are extremely pleased with the top-quality agronomic support that IGM continually provides to our club” -Rick Reid, General Manager, Blackthorn Golf Club.

For more information on IGM and the professional golf course services offered, please contact the IGM Business Development Office at 800-413-5500 or on the web at http://www.igminc.net/.

IGM Maintains Golf Week's Top Municipal Golf Course - North Palm Beach Country Club

Golfweek's Best Municipal Courses list features the nation's top 50 government owned golf courses that truly boast a higher standard for public golf. “We are very proud to have North Palm Beach named in Golfweek Magazine’s 2009 top municipal courses listing,” said IGM’s Executive Vice President, Greg Plotner. “My praise and recognition goes to all of those who worked hard to receive such a prestigious honor. It’s truly special to be included in the same category as the other great golf clubs that also made the list.”

To produce the Golfweek's Best Municipal Courses list, a nationwide team of more than 475 evaluators rated the layouts on the basis of 10 criteria - including routing, conditioning, variety and memorability of holes.

About North Palm Beach Country Club:
The North Palm Beach Country Club consists of an 18-hole, Jack Nicklaus “Signature” Course. NPBCC is only the third “Signature” municipal golf course designed by Nicklaus – a renovation which was completed in 2006. Aside from the improved playability, the Nicklaus redesign included a new irrigation system, total re-grassing of all the playing surfaces, new greens and improved fairway surface drainage. The facility also has a lighted driving range, putting green, golf shop, and a well-appointed locker room facility.

“To help maintain the “Nicklaus Standard,” we turned to IGM. Since assuming the maintenance responsibilities in the fall of 2007, the condition of the golf course has helped achieve a level of conditioning never seen before at North Palm Beach Country Club. We live in the land of high-end private clubs, and we now have a municipal course that is maintained at an equivalent level. With IGM and our superintendent Shane McGuire at the helm, we know we are in good hands.” - Mike Gray, General Manager, North Palm Beach Country Club

For more information on IGM and the professional golf course services offered, please contact the IGM Business Development Office at 800-413-5500 or on the web at http://www.igminc.net/.

July Milestones

We would like to recognize the following team members who have demonstrated their continued commitment to excellence and have reached important milestones with IGM.

12 Years
Melanie Mark – Regional Manager – Southeast Florida

7 Years
Linda Piney – Administrative Assistant – IGM at ChampionsGate

6 Years
Richard Jacobs – Superintendent – IGM at Mirror Lakes

5 Years
Robert Lendak – Equipment Technician – IGM at Silver Lakes
Alexis Padilla – Crew Foreman – IGM at ChampionsGate

4 Years
Greg Hunter – Irrigation Technician – IGM at Tarpon Springs
Duane Simpson – Landscape Foreman – IGM at ViewPoint
Kenton Kiley – Assistant Superintendent – IGM at Sandridge
Eric Santana – Irrigation Technician – IGM at SilverStone

3 Years
Scott Merritt – Superintendent – IGM at ViewPoint
Guadalupe Duran – Equipment Technician – IGM at ViewPoint
Fred Lewis – Assistant Superintendent – IGM at Heritage Greens
Francisco Olivares – Equipment Technician – IGM at SilverStone
Tanner Couch – Equipment Technician – IGM at ChampionsGate

2 Years
Jerry Wheelis – Equipment Technician – IGM at Lake Henry
Terry Peacock – Crew Foreman – IGM at Lake Henry
Joseph Elacqua – Equipment Technician – IGM at Silver Dollar
Jason Farr – Superintendent – IGM at Lake Henry

1 Year
Baremd Greyling – Irrigation Technician – IGM at ChampionsGate

Thanks to each of you for your efforts in making IGM the leader in the golf maintenance industry. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.

July Birthdays

Members of the IGM Team with July birthdays:

Homer Ramsier – Equipment Technician – IGM at North Palm Beach
Richard McQuillen – Equipment Technician – IGM at Ridgewood Lakes
Larry Haley – Equipment Technician – IGM at Brays Island
Dayton Simpson – Superintendent – IGM at Pine Lakes
Martin Suarez – Assistant Superintendent – IGM at Silver Lakes
Robert Johnston – Equipment Technician – IGM at Pine Lakes
Richard Jacobs – Superintendent – IGM at Mirror Lakes
Oscar Lopez – Irrigation Technician – IGM at ViewPoint
Brad Batchelor – Superintendent – IGM at Bear Valley Springs

We wish each of you a very Happy Birthday!

IGM Superintendent Chester Guzek Wins Tollie Quinn Title

Chester Guzek, Golf Course Superintendent for IGM at Lake of the Woods earned the VGCSA Tollie Quinn title in convincing fashion. Chester shot a 3-under, 69 to win by 5 shots.

In addition to gift certificates and the trophy, Chester earned a spot on the VGCSA team which will participate at the GCSAA National Championship to be held this year in Palm Spring, California.

This event, held at Spring Creek in Gordonsville, VA is in honor of Mr. Tollie Quinn whose contributions to the turf industry in Virginia were many and included the establishment of the turf curriculum at Virginia Tech..

IGM Team Completes Bunker Renovation

The first phase of bunker renovations has been completed at IGM maintained Bear Valley Springs. The IGM special project crew led by Golf Course Superintendent Brad Batchelor and Regional Manager Robert Diebold has completed the work which included removal of existing sand, restoration of the bunkers to their original size and shape, installation of drainage and new top quality sand. “Brad and the entire team did a great job. The project is thus far is a huge success.” commented Robert. "We are really looking forward to resuming work on the bunkers later this year". The second phase of this three year project is set to begin winter of 2009.

“WOW!! What a difference! I almost forgot what a real bunker is supposed to be like. The crew you sent is incredible. We really appreciate all the hard work!” commented Duane Gore, Director of Golf. Bear Valley Springs is a gated community nestled in the foothills and mountains just west of Tehachapi, California. Amenities include horseback riding, golf, tennis, swimming, fishing, a shooting range, camp grounds, workout facility and more.

For more information on IGM and the professional golf course services offered, please contact the IGM Business Development Office at 800-413-5500 or on the web at http://www.igminc.net/.

Golf Course Lightning Safety

It always seems to happen when you are having the round of your life. The sky darkens, the wind picks up and the thunder begins to roll across the golf course.

The temptation always exists in these circumstances to convince yourself and your playing partners that there is enough time to finish your round, or at least a few more holes. If you play on instead of seeking shelter, your great round could become the last round of your life.

Every year more people are killed or injured by lightning than by tornadoes, floods or hurricanes. In fact, it's estimated that in the United States, as many as 300 people are killed by lightning each year.

Because they are generally open areas with scattered individual trees, golf courses are dangerous places during a thunderstorm. A lightning bolt will take the shortest route between the cloud and the ground, which means that a golfer standing in the middle of a fairway or huddled under a tree is a prime target for a strike.

However, there are several safety measures you can take to avoid being hit by lightning:
- Seek shelter at the first sign of a thunderstorm. If the course's warning system sounds, cover.
- If possible, get off the golf course or go to a designated lightning shelter.
- Do not stand under a lone tree. This is where most people are injured or killed.
- Stay away from water.
- Stay away from your golf clubs.
- If your shoes have metal spikes, take them off.
- Move away from your golf cart.
- If stranded in the open, go to a low place such as a ravine or valley.

First aid
If a player in your group is struck by lightning, the person is no longer carrying any electrical current, so you can apply first aid immediately. The golfer will be burned and have received a severe electrical shock.

People who have been apparently "killed" by lightning can be revived if quick action is taken. If you must make a choice, treat those who are not breathing first -- those who are unconscious but still breathing will probably come out of it on their own.

First aid should be rendered to those not breathing within four to six minutes to prevent irrevocable brain damage. Mouth-to mouth resuscitation should be administered once every five seconds to adults and once every three seconds to infants and small children.

However, if the victim is not breathing and has no pulse, cardiopulmonary resuscitation is necessary, but should be administered only by persons with proper training. You should also check for burns along the extremities and around areas in contact with metal, give first aid for shock and then send for help.

Source: http://www.gcsaa.org/solutions/facts/lightning.aspx

IGM Assists in Course Improvement

Planning and execution of capital improvement projects are just another area of expertise in the IGM portfolio.

The IGM Team at Sandridge Golf Club in Vero Beach, Florida recently completed a much needed irrigation installation project. The overall scope included installation of new lateral lines to supply sixteen new Rain Bird heads.

"It was quite a challenge trenching in the sugar sand. We fought trench cave-ins constantly." explained Sean Gillen, IGM Assistant Superintendent. He went on to say of the great team effort, "Our team worked very well in very hot temperatures and high humidity to complete the project in just two days."

Regional Manager Melanie Mark, CGCS is proud of the staff also. "They did a great job in difficult conditions. With the overall goal of improving course conditions with the most effective use of the course's resources in mind, the project is a huge success".

For more information on IGM and the professional golf course services offered, the IGM Business Developement Office at 800-413-5500 or visit us on the web at http://www.igminc.net/.

Fixing Divots - It's Every Player Responsibility

If you play golf, you create divots -- it's part of the game. However, if you create divots, you should also repair them -- that's part of the etiquette of the game. Repairing your divots ensures that the golfers who follow you have the same level playing surface you had when you started your round.

A number of different methods are used to repair divots, and each of them is designed to make sure that the type of grass growing around the divot fills in as quickly as possible.

Some courses ask that you simply replace your divot. In this case, you should replace it in the same direction that it came out and firmly tamp it down.

On courses whose tees and fairways feature actively growing bermudagrass, you will often be asked not to replace the divot, but rather to fill the hole with sand the course provides. In this situation, fill the divot and then tamp down the sand so it is level with the surrounding area.

At some courses in the North that feature ryegrass and in the South where dormant bermudagrasses are overseeded, you may be asked to fill the divot with a sand/seed mixture. Again, it is important to tamp the sand down so the seed will germinate.

Be sure to ask about the local procedure and follow it when you are playing at a new course. Do your part to keep good conditions for the next player or for your next round.


Source: www.gcsaa.org/solutions/divots

Blackthorn to Host College Football HOF Enshrinement Tournament

Meadowbrook Golf managed Blackthorn Golf Club is proud to be hosting the annual College Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival Golf Scramble. For those who might like to participate in the July 17th event, registration is at 7:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Each foursome paired with a Hall of Famer or sports celebrity. For more information or to reserve a spot, call 574) 235-5743 or visit http://www.collegefootball.org/.

IGM Maintained Waynesville Inn Rolls Out New Logo

Following the recent rebranding of the IGM maintained Waynesville Inn Golf Resort & Spa; the new logo has made its way out onto the course and new flags are currently waving on the 27 hole mountain retreat.

Working with its supply partner Golf Ventures, IGM is working to update all of the course accessories as part of the overall course improvement program begun in March.

“Most players don’t yet see the impact of the agronomic programs we have put in place to improve the course but everyone notices the new flags. It’s a small thing but it’s a sign that change is happening” commented Jeff Miller, IGM’s Director of Golf Maintenance.