tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15806395365639852462024-03-05T21:36:32.177-05:00International Golf Maintenance, Inc. - IGMInternational Golf Maintenance, Inc. - IGM - Blog for the national leader in golf course maintenance and other professional golf services.International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comBlogger309125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-39569903939134484612017-07-06T10:53:00.000-04:002017-07-06T10:53:40.475-04:00Bear Valley Springs Independence Day Events<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQpIrfXWQH7GXgGyypyfIui8Vn9FqJ1Zo9EZRWYPCDxroI9bSL-PMkvtka54ORdHcW6hxnIKdu55TLZkVH99XJjNvzJy8S_O1SWBUIPFSnoK6d__fYHaQpC6xdV99ZdklQ_SUify2uM40/s1600/BVS+070417+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="528" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQpIrfXWQH7GXgGyypyfIui8Vn9FqJ1Zo9EZRWYPCDxroI9bSL-PMkvtka54ORdHcW6hxnIKdu55TLZkVH99XJjNvzJy8S_O1SWBUIPFSnoK6d__fYHaQpC6xdV99ZdklQ_SUify2uM40/s320/BVS+070417+%25283%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The IGM Team was proud to have participated in the Independence Day Celebration organized by the Bear Valley Springs in Tehachapi, California. Events included hot air balloon rides, a parade, numerous booths and exhibits and fireworks. Many of the events were hosted in areas of the property maintained by IGM and our Team helped with set-up and removal of many chairs, tables and the main stage. "We received a lot of compliments on the areas that we maintain and it was rewarding to be a part of a great event in the community." commented IGM Golf Course Superintendent Brandon Haynes.<br />
<br />
<b>About Bear Valley Springs</b><br />
<div class="style6" style="margin-bottom: 0;">
Bear Valley Springs a private gate-guarded community, located in the Tehachapi Mountains in California. 25,000 acres of land and 3,500 home sites. It is home to a Country Club, Golf Course, Tennis, Equestrian Center, Horse Trails, Rifle Range, Swimming, Indoor Recreation, Lakes and Wilderness areas. Private roads and security to promote a safe life-style. <b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-6326760787188832622017-07-04T06:00:00.000-04:002017-07-04T06:00:14.480-04:00Happy Independence Day! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXlf7XMVrGv9yEnNCMYAsAMkOBu8p5CxrhJwx7TaR9HictSWZ4M6DrcDQAVs9C4sAxh4sZ2B4d1K__CCxG-s3cxtlJDLFGWFfQfBaTJfv-NQj3CtuYUWmoPl_BYSFhRGEXyZjGZl5GZI/s1600/independence_day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXlf7XMVrGv9yEnNCMYAsAMkOBu8p5CxrhJwx7TaR9HictSWZ4M6DrcDQAVs9C4sAxh4sZ2B4d1K__CCxG-s3cxtlJDLFGWFfQfBaTJfv-NQj3CtuYUWmoPl_BYSFhRGEXyZjGZl5GZI/s400/independence_day.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">From all of us at IGM, have a safe and happy Independence Day!</span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-83166879723549846812017-06-12T08:24:00.002-04:002017-06-12T08:24:40.335-04:00Mikael Kuhn Attains GCSAA Class A Status <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7m2U9ZGWCe5p4VY8rxTbjAICoCEJbqlPoSQazYyR6YWQhnTgPxU0dUZQUUgNHKKKw-AQHDdpILgn9l60jNRi-wnaBUkCPwHHLrYTmBWV-crkYb9KWq-r9iV3J8Dh_KGDIW4-O9bYVDxw/s1600/Class-A-color-highres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="223" data-original-width="613" height="116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7m2U9ZGWCe5p4VY8rxTbjAICoCEJbqlPoSQazYyR6YWQhnTgPxU0dUZQUUgNHKKKw-AQHDdpILgn9l60jNRi-wnaBUkCPwHHLrYTmBWV-crkYb9KWq-r9iV3J8Dh_KGDIW4-O9bYVDxw/s320/Class-A-color-highres.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Michael Kuhn, IGM</span></span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Golf Course Superintendent for Lake of the Woods in Locust Grove, VA </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">has achieved Class A membership status by meeting the standards established by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).</span></span></div>
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><div style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</span></span><div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">GCSAA Class A status is the preferred membership class of the association, and is a standard for the golf course management profession. Class A membership is awarded to members who are currently employed as a golf course superintendent and have met specific requirements combining formal education, experience as a golf course superintendent and continuing education. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Congratulations to Mike on this well deserved recognition.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-71729682030795622912017-05-29T06:25:00.001-04:002017-05-29T06:29:02.433-04:00Memorial Day <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsw7g940qeRaDF4TnJ9d-PMa3tZtbElii1uwliyX7zlEIdW6TUFhttesU7yodsJC1Z_QjcUNPKs9GvCshyG1b0KE04d8hDlrJZiTlN7CGmy45rebxHWsq9HwHnfyramohxJPiKktZDV2w/s1600/memorialday2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsw7g940qeRaDF4TnJ9d-PMa3tZtbElii1uwliyX7zlEIdW6TUFhttesU7yodsJC1Z_QjcUNPKs9GvCshyG1b0KE04d8hDlrJZiTlN7CGmy45rebxHWsq9HwHnfyramohxJPiKktZDV2w/s320/memorialday2011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At this time of remembrance we should reflect on the freedoms we share as Americans. Those freedoms are the result of the men and women of the US Armed Forces both past and present. On this day be sure to let those who have served, are serving or families of those who have paid the highest price for our country know how thankful we are for what they do for us. <br /><br /><b>Thank you from all of us at IGM.</b> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Have a Safe and Happy Memorial Day</span></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-69433944041178660792017-01-23T11:05:00.003-05:002017-01-23T11:05:54.177-05:00James Newton Attains GCSAA Class A Status <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7m2U9ZGWCe5p4VY8rxTbjAICoCEJbqlPoSQazYyR6YWQhnTgPxU0dUZQUUgNHKKKw-AQHDdpILgn9l60jNRi-wnaBUkCPwHHLrYTmBWV-crkYb9KWq-r9iV3J8Dh_KGDIW4-O9bYVDxw/s1600/Class-A-color-highres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7m2U9ZGWCe5p4VY8rxTbjAICoCEJbqlPoSQazYyR6YWQhnTgPxU0dUZQUUgNHKKKw-AQHDdpILgn9l60jNRi-wnaBUkCPwHHLrYTmBWV-crkYb9KWq-r9iV3J8Dh_KGDIW4-O9bYVDxw/s320/Class-A-color-highres.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">James Newton, IGM</span></span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Golf Course Superintendent for The Sanctuary at Cat Island and Lady's Island Country Club</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> in Beaufort, South Carolina</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> has achieved Class A membership status by meeting the standards established by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).</span></span><br />
<div style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">GCSAA Class A status is the preferred membership class of the association, and is a standard for the golf course management profession. Class A membership is awarded to members who are currently employed as a golf course superintendent and have met specific requirements combining formal education, experience as a golf course superintendent and continuing education. </span></span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-67785171949784529882016-12-23T07:07:00.000-05:002016-12-23T07:08:33.698-05:00IGM at Widow’s Walk Golf Course Recognized for Environmental Excellence<br />
<div style="margin: 0px -36px 0px 0px; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjolHkPnqkW_g6A-ZKRQMoNiCg9HkUkNuuSeTyfASSKO47s0rz5YR8t2YxhrNNvI-OSi_3Kg7c5Fu2fB74TrSPCeZ7Y0ZFBNv8dB6JmDl2yVzJb6YWRrAl6BsggjlBAIYqqEZTr7oTVMOU/s1600/AICertified_Standard_CMYK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjolHkPnqkW_g6A-ZKRQMoNiCg9HkUkNuuSeTyfASSKO47s0rz5YR8t2YxhrNNvI-OSi_3Kg7c5Fu2fB74TrSPCeZ7Y0ZFBNv8dB6JmDl2yVzJb6YWRrAl6BsggjlBAIYqqEZTr7oTVMOU/s200/AICertified_Standard_CMYK.jpg" width="199" /></a><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"><b>IMMEDIATE
RELEASE- December 2016</b></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px -36px 0px 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px -36px 0px 0px; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">CONTACT:<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">Allie Smith, Program
Specialist</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px -12px 0px 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>(518)
767-9051, Ext. 116</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px -12px 0px 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333399; font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">allie@auduboninternational.org</span></a><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">
</span></u></b></div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">Widow’s Walk Golf Course Recognized for Environmental Excellence</span></u></b></div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">SCITUATE, MA – Widow’s Walk Golf Course has
retained its designation as a "Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary”
through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, an Audubon
International program.</span><br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">Participation is designed to help course
personnel plan, organize, implement, and document a comprehensive environmental
management program and receive recognition for their efforts. To reach
certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high
degree of environmental quality in a number of areas including: Environmental
Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical
Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">"Widow’s Walk Golf Course has shown a
strong commitment to its environmental program. They are to be commended for
their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course
property," said Tara Donadio, Director of Cooperative Sanctuary Programs
at Audubon International. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">Widow’s Walk Golf Course is one of 13 courses
in Massachusetts and 892 courses in the world to hold the honor. Golf courses
from the United States, Africa, Australia, Central America, Europe, South
America, and Southeast Asia have also achieved certification in the program.
The golf course was designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary in 2002.
After designation, courses go through a recertification process every three
years.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">This year the recertification process,
coordinated by Ryan Cahill, Golf Course Superintendent, required a visit by a
local community representative. Stephen Maguire, Professional Educator/Site
Quality Evaluator at GO Turnstone, was given a tour of the course and sent his
observations to Audubon International. “Widow’s Walk exceeds the Audubon
Certification and is an environmental gem of the South Shore,” Maguire
reported. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">“We see the site visit as an important
component of a course’s recertification,” stated Donadio. “It provides an
objective verification of some of the more visible aspects of the course’s
environmental management activities. In addition, it offers an opportunity for
golf course representatives to share publicly some of the voluntary actions
they have taken to protect and sustain the land, water, wildlife, and natural
resources around them.”</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">About Audubon
International</span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">Audubon International is a not-for-profit
501(c)(3) environmental education organization dedicated to providing people
with the education and assistance they need to practice responsible management
of land, water, wildlife, and other natural resources. To meet this mission,
the organization provides training, services, and a set of award-winning
environmental education and certification programs for individuals,
organizations, properties, new developments, and entire communities. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">For
more information, contact Audubon International at 120 Defreest Drive, Troy, NY
12180, 1-844-767-9051, e-mail at acsp@auduboninternational.org, or visit the
website at </span><a href="http://www.auduboninternational.org/"><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: blue;">www.auduboninternational.org</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "interstate light"; margin: 0px;">.</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-28652192961912519952016-11-30T09:03:00.000-05:002016-11-30T09:03:57.161-05:00Chris Parsons Attains GCSAA Class A Status
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgPB5htmxQWMpmVbGQQIRI5vqRkeHs-8bIvVQxuYsRQU8IRpjRS9QcfAPO8kz6d29Qzq_rOiyETd_RvItbY-eL3cQrK4NWSRpP-VJuMFVVLhvQrRMlzh56BVCNC3ZuTX5m-hieERA_QY/s1600/Class-A-color-highres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgPB5htmxQWMpmVbGQQIRI5vqRkeHs-8bIvVQxuYsRQU8IRpjRS9QcfAPO8kz6d29Qzq_rOiyETd_RvItbY-eL3cQrK4NWSRpP-VJuMFVVLhvQrRMlzh56BVCNC3ZuTX5m-hieERA_QY/s320/Class-A-color-highres.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chris Parsons, IGM</span></span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
Golf Course Superintendent at ViewPoint Golf Resort</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> in Mesa, Arizona</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> has achieved Class A membership status by
meeting the standards established by the Golf Course Superintendents
Association of America (GCSAA).</span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">GCSAA Class A status
is the preferred membership class of the association, and is a standard for the
golf course management profession. Class A membership is awarded to members who
are currently employed as a golf course superintendent and have met specific
requirements combining formal education, experience as a golf course
superintendent and continuing education. </span></span></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-32126669617223568942016-11-24T06:00:00.000-05:002016-11-24T06:00:18.013-05:00Happy Thanksgiving<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We would like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">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.</span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-67243332793829254132016-11-11T10:34:00.000-05:002016-11-11T10:34:02.066-05:00Happy Veteran's Day<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZM1N2swSXm__WMTvddt00n6cE8kTRHWT8zhWNDNv6kkFtjSi970wWNHvbE1UD0AACx_4YtGrTigKO5DvuHXZ4r8EoCjK8IsnseyYOJFbyGEPm3-KsNZx1PFIxb3jTldJ3H0N2595WDZ0/s1600/independence_day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZM1N2swSXm__WMTvddt00n6cE8kTRHWT8zhWNDNv6kkFtjSi970wWNHvbE1UD0AACx_4YtGrTigKO5DvuHXZ4r8EoCjK8IsnseyYOJFbyGEPm3-KsNZx1PFIxb3jTldJ3H0N2595WDZ0/s320/independence_day.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">- Elmer Davis</span></span></span> <b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-31067806026364393132016-10-05T17:46:00.000-04:002016-10-05T17:46:49.792-04:00IGM Superintendent Achieves Great Heights<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJcycbHAJ8oI58GaPN6dBfH6loEuHsWTuv3kag1qM6YqG_Vg_NW3wMGANQ8obk2rHtkaEGjeKbGJ_RNa5dPW-xafwZVP78O76Bhr1Sv8jLNJdw9eXhB7aT12zHGAJ2OBHuIyavSNJ8Xs8/s1600/Mt+Whitney+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJcycbHAJ8oI58GaPN6dBfH6loEuHsWTuv3kag1qM6YqG_Vg_NW3wMGANQ8obk2rHtkaEGjeKbGJ_RNa5dPW-xafwZVP78O76Bhr1Sv8jLNJdw9eXhB7aT12zHGAJ2OBHuIyavSNJ8Xs8/s320/Mt+Whitney+2.jpg" width="309" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brandon Haynes & Marcy Sherwood</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
On September 6th, Brandon Haynes Golf Course Superintendent for IGM at Bear Valley Springs summited Mount Whitney, the highest mountain in the lower 48 states. At 14,505 feet, the peak is a prominent feature in the Sierra Nevada range.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana";">This was Brandon's second attempt at the summit. During his previous attempt he and his climbing partners made it within two miles of the top and were forced to turn around due to inclement weather.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> "</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This
year was about perfect weather for us and our successful climb" Brandon commented.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana";">Brandon and five others in his group covered 22 miles in approximately 14 hours starting their trek at 3:00AM to reach the peak at the ideal time.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> "</span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There
is a section of 99 switch backs at 12,000 feet that leads to trail crest. It
took us about 4 hours from the bottom of the switch backs to the summit."</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Of the accomplishment, Brandon said "I
am not going to lie, it was a strenuous hike and it took a lot of intestinal
fortitude to make it the whole way". </span></span></span>
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";">With his first summit of Mount Whitney under his belt Brandon plans to return to attempt </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">the </span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mountaineers'
route in the future.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana";">Congratulations from the entire IGM Team!</span></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-34853006626332310322016-08-29T14:00:00.001-04:002016-08-29T14:00:41.188-04:00Mill Valley Golf Links Upgrade with IGM<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mill Valley Golf Links has one of the best
layouts among 18-hole courses in western Massachusetts and is thought of as a
hidden gem. When owner and manager Tim Kurty read about an industry colleague’s
positive experience with maintenance contractor IGM, Inc., he visited the other
course and was pleased with what he saw in course improvements and
problem-solving. After a meeting with IGM executives, Kurty became a client,
with a contract that started July 1, 2016.</span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stability,
security, and solid data were on Tim Kurty’s mind when he contracted with IGM,
Inc. for maintenance services for Mill Valley Golf Links in Belchertown, MA. At
62, and having become the sole owner of the 18-hole course, Kurty was looking
for a partner to maintain Mill Valley on a day-to-day basis and to protect his
investment. </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I’m an accountant, so I need
details. IGM</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> gave me detailed valuations of tools,
equipment, the irrigation system, everything. When I deal with bankers or if I
ever want to sell, I need to know those numbers, and I didn’t.”</span></i></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">IGM Regional
Manager Tyler Minamyer said, “</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mill Valley
is a rural site with a loyal following. The course needs a professional touch
and someone to look out for Tim’s return on investment. It’s a nice
partnership, and he understands how to look at the numbers.”</span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Though the
contract is new, initial steps are to implement an agronomic plan and to update
the look and presentation of the golf course. This includes updating signage
and accessories, as well as further developing the course’s cart paths. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kurty said
50 percent of his decision to hire IGM was based on the relationships the
company had developed with other local courses and the results they have achieved.
</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I didn’t want my investment to rely on
one course superintendent. With IGM, I have the whole team working for me, with
more resources, plus I feel like I have more input. I also have</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> c</span></b></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">onfidence
in their agronomics. In this business, the wrong turf products can cause you to
lose greens and that hurts you for several years.”</span></i></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The other
50 percent, said Kurty, was his personal situation as sole owner of Mill Valley
Golf Links. </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I’m 62 and putting in a lot
of hours. I felt that if I had to be away, the place would go downhill. I don’t
have to worry about the grounds now. If I take a vacation, everything will be
taken care of according to contract. IGM will make sure the grounds are taken
care of.”</span></i></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">IGM’s
Executive Vice-President Greg Plotner appreciates Kurty’s confidence and is
pleased to add Mill Valley Golf Links to the roster of properties the company
serves. </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“There is no greater compliment
than the recommendation of a current client, and we expect to build the same type
of partnership with Tim.”</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-53503083637127218312016-08-09T13:28:00.000-04:002016-08-09T13:28:49.443-04:00IGM Signs Maintenance Contract with Lake Ashton Golf Club
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>A recent management change at Lake Ashton
Golf Club in Lake Wales, FL, made it clear to the owners they needed some
expertise to maintain the golf courses more cost-effectively. In May, they brought in IGM, Inc., with whom
they had previous experience at two other area courses. Improvements at Lake Ashton have happened
quickly, and club members are pleased to see the upgrades.</b></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When Lake
Ashton Golf Club owners underwent a management change in the summer of 2015,
they realized the two 18-hole courses needed additional attention. Brian
Altman, Golf Operations Manager at Lake Ashton Golf Club, said, </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“We had such good experience with IGM at our
other courses, we asked them to meet with us. We needed their agronomic expertise
and the resources they could bring to us.” </span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lake Ashton Golf Club
Vice-President Jim Lee added, </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“IGM’s
knowledge was evident in those early meetings,”</span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> and the Club signed a
maintenance contract with IGM in May, 2016.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">IGM’s initial work at the courses has focused on developing
a sound fertility and spray program, and implementing an improved aerification
program, starting with greens and tee boxes.</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
“IGM has been active with our membership liaison committees to communicate
directly with them,”</span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> said Altman</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.
“Members have commented positively on how maintenance issues are being
addressed, and they see we’re making progress.”</span></i></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Greg Plotner,
IGM’s executive vice-president, noted the company retained the superintendent,
David Wilson and approximately 25 other maintenance employees. </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“David has been at Lake Ashton since the
course was constructed. We’re proud to have him on our team.”</span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Altman added
that IGM’s willingness to offer jobs to existing staff has made for a smooth
transition.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lee said the
ownership group is happy to have stable cost figures and that IGM is able to
work within the available budget. He added, “</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The most important thing is the members have already noticed changes, and
the acceptance has been tremendous. That’s good for revenue.”</span></i></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-91796095881411859532016-06-06T16:07:00.000-04:002016-06-06T16:07:16.633-04:002016 Atlantic Hurricane Season<div style="text-align: justify;">
With June 1 the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane season, we are already facing our second storm in the South East. Record rainfall has already been recorded creating numerous challenges for Golf Course Maintenance professionals.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
IGM has many years of experience in hurricane preparation and recovery. Proper planning is critical to personal safety and success in protecting assets. Visit <a href="http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/hurricane/" target="_blank">NWS Hurricane Safety</a> or your local state resources to help make your personal plan.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Hurricane Names for 2016</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Alex </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bonnie </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Colin </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Danielle </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Earl </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fiona </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Gaston<br />Hermine </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ian </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Julia </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Karl </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lisa </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Matthew </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nicole<br />Otto </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Paula </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Richard </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shary </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tobias </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Virginie </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Walter</div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-7386095260809066252016-05-30T05:30:00.000-04:002016-05-30T05:30:20.694-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTRZsJh5jPvwEqj_V6EPO3rjStNKU2iiCtD0KjHyYZY56Bn1l89CL_3xYWXksuRp2OSoC15Iwdy6G8dbIjOOUleQcbjyL4Flu29qa4iJwZk-3o5wQFpqFddm_z7LK9_CSc5YBDosZf0s/s1600/memorialday2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTRZsJh5jPvwEqj_V6EPO3rjStNKU2iiCtD0KjHyYZY56Bn1l89CL_3xYWXksuRp2OSoC15Iwdy6G8dbIjOOUleQcbjyL4Flu29qa4iJwZk-3o5wQFpqFddm_z7LK9_CSc5YBDosZf0s/s320/memorialday2011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At this time of rememberance we should reflect on the freedoms we share as Americans. Those freedoms are the result of the men and women of the US Armed Forces both past and present. On this day be sure to let those who have served, are serving or families of those who have paid the highest price for our country know how thankful we are for what they do for us.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thank you from all of us at IGM.</span><span><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-7717060340298353412016-05-24T14:00:00.001-04:002016-05-24T14:00:42.181-04:00Enjoying Mother Nature<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-Ow9tdLbnrGmrBC6YMSFnX9rhg2KHUDkb-Ac3W4m96g1wv3487J0A3q4iVmw_AdsoIT3-58CchcL7YRASakFDV6l_UapPZzQKi6ngJg8PEQM7k-fBGyM3jSs_OF6yKNbiIUPVYjxxU4/s1600/IMG_4507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-Ow9tdLbnrGmrBC6YMSFnX9rhg2KHUDkb-Ac3W4m96g1wv3487J0A3q4iVmw_AdsoIT3-58CchcL7YRASakFDV6l_UapPZzQKi6ngJg8PEQM7k-fBGyM3jSs_OF6yKNbiIUPVYjxxU4/s320/IMG_4507.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The thing that most of us Golf Course Superintendents have in common is the love of being outdoors. Not much better way to end the day than with this beautiful sunset captured by Mike Fontaine GCS for IGM at The Ledges in South Hadley, MA.</div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-67349973117123485422016-04-26T10:23:00.000-04:002016-04-26T10:23:10.881-04:00IGM Supports Scout in Eagle Project<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1g7ZtZkOHh9LeR2e9DK_pBRfCc9W0N1DFsE3wg6bAh5FgL7XQOltg4NSQWmBj8jypOt46HRWTQVvI1p_mTZTzlc3xKvGcBjHV0-ZQIz7jj5SbsuZTCD_5K_pfEePNoEuMb6C5uP2c0E/s1600/20160324_100107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1g7ZtZkOHh9LeR2e9DK_pBRfCc9W0N1DFsE3wg6bAh5FgL7XQOltg4NSQWmBj8jypOt46HRWTQVvI1p_mTZTzlc3xKvGcBjHV0-ZQIz7jj5SbsuZTCD_5K_pfEePNoEuMb6C5uP2c0E/s320/20160324_100107.jpg" width="197" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brandon & Johnathon in front of <br />
1 of 8 owl boxes built & erected</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">IGM is proud of its participation in the communities that it serves. The partnership with Scouting is an important program that a number of our locations support. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Recently, Brandon Haynes and the IGM Team at Bear Valley Springs in Tehachapi, California had the opportunity to aid a Johnathon Eppler of Troop 135 in completing his Eagle Scout Project. <span class="_Tgc">Eagle Scout is the highest achievement or rank attainable in the Boy Scouting program of the Boy Scouts of America.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="_Tgc"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="_Tgc">The project consisted of construction and installation of eight owl boxes on the golf course. IGM helped to secure approvals from the Bear Valley Springs Association as well as provided the needed construction supplies and materials. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="_Tgc"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="_Tgc">"Our team was more than happy to help. The boxes are a great compliment to the natural habitat we work to protect and maintain. Working with Johnathon was a very enjoyable experience." Haynes explained.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="_Tgc">For more information about Scouting, visit <a href="http://www.scouting.org/">http://www.scouting.org/</a>.</span></span>International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-63878590425253729872016-02-24T08:53:00.001-05:002016-02-24T08:53:22.826-05:00IGM Recaps 2015 Success on the Links<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
At IGM, we
take pride in partnering with our customers to achieve success on and off the
golf course. Our agronomic expertise yields visible results on the courses we
maintain, and our business approach and economies-of-scale yield savings to our
clients. Our goal is to build and maintain win-win relationships with our
clients, by delivering a custom approach to their needs and consistent attention
to their goals. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just in the
past year, we were privileged: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->To manage the thaw and restoration of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Ledges Golf Club </i>in South Hadley,
Massachusetts in time for the course to host its first Connecticut Section PGA
tournament after a particularly harsh winter. <a href="http://blog.igminc.net/2015/05/winter-thaw-at-ledges-golf-club-igm.html" target="_blank"><strong>Click Here<o:p></o:p></strong></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->To achieve higher water utilization efficiency
and improve playing surfaces at two <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Caesar’s
Entertainment </i>courses in Nevada with no capital outlay. During this time,
Cascata Golf Club improved its rating among <u>Golf Digest</u>’s America’s Top
100 Public Golf Courses. <a href="http://blog.igminc.net/2015/08/igm-helps-caesars-improve-top-100.html" target="_blank"><strong>Click Here<o:p></o:p></strong></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->To complete a re-grassing and irrigation project
at <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Bray’s Island Plantation</i>, while protecting
the Plantation’s natural assets and minimizing disruption to players. <a href="http://blog.igminc.net/2015/06/golf-course-upgrade-at-brays-island.html" target="_blank"><strong>Click Here<o:p></o:p></strong></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->To expand our relationship with Sun Communities
at <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Cypress Greens golf course</i> in Lake
Alfred, FL, and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Southport Springs Golf
& Country Club </i>in Zephyrhills, FL.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">
</b>IGM is restoring the two courses’ fairways and greens to good playing
conditions, after both had deteriorated under previous owners. <a href="http://blog.igminc.net/2015/08/igm-to-restore-cypress-greens-golf.html" target="_blank"><strong>Click Here<o:p></o:p></strong></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Follow the
LINKS to read more about these projects and the comprehensive maintenance
services IGM provides each customer. Call us with questions or to talk about
your course’s challenges and how we might help. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span>International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-71100467400933659412016-01-01T06:00:00.000-05:002016-01-01T06:00:17.438-05:00Happy New Year<span><blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">May the year 2016 bring for you happiness, success and be filled with peace, hope & togetherness of your family & friends... Wishing you a... <span style="color: black;">HAPPY NEW YEAR!</span></span></span></div>
</blockquote>
</span>International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-1007950313643093952015-11-11T09:09:00.002-05:002015-11-11T09:09:39.815-05:00Happy Veteran's Day<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy Veteran's Day!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." - Elmer Davis</span></span>International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-31593722436095624722015-10-08T15:25:00.000-04:002015-10-08T15:25:47.406-04:00IGM Superintendent to Run NYC Marathon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVfGNjYmynoXNw14Wd0UQDfbfk1ZoVk2NEQUbhKD6kZqzUQD0_pNvHGlitrWa-LOjj-4Rmgr93xUYY84bGCZHzQIOyfNXTLE-hc-QkUZkqK65Qv-9F_D0eo5uYySmejVvIlecZSEicGQ4/s1600/14330.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVfGNjYmynoXNw14Wd0UQDfbfk1ZoVk2NEQUbhKD6kZqzUQD0_pNvHGlitrWa-LOjj-4Rmgr93xUYY84bGCZHzQIOyfNXTLE-hc-QkUZkqK65Qv-9F_D0eo5uYySmejVvIlecZSEicGQ4/s320/14330.jpeg" width="239" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Todd Hugill, Superintendent at
IGM-maintained Widow’s Walk Golf Course, will be running the New York City
Marathon on November 1, 2015. He will run with Team Hole in the Wall, which
benefits the Paul Newman camps for seriously ill children. IGM strives to be
active in the communities in which they have contracts and supports employees
in their pursuits. </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></o:p></b> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Most days, Todd
Hugill can be found walking Widow’s Walk Golf Course in Scituate, MA, looking
for problem areas and ensuring optimal turf conditions. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a course superintendent with IGM for the
past 14 years, Hugill is responsible for all aspects of the course’s daily
maintenance needs. But on November 1, 2015, he will be running. As a member of
Team Hole in the Wall, he will be running the New York City Marathon, partly as
a personal challenge and partly to benefit a worthy cause.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></o:p> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“My wife has always been a runner, and she
inspired me. Running the NYC Marathon was something ‘out there’ that challenged
me,”</i> said Hugill, who began training 18 weeks before race day. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“A friend has done some work with Camp Hole
in the Wall, and she knew they had some bibs available on their team. It’s a
really good cause, so I was glad to join.”</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em></em><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Camp Hole in
the Wall was established by actor Paul Newman to provide “a different kind of
healing to more than 30,000 children and families battling serious illness each
year, free of charge,” according to their website. Hugill has fond memories of
his own summer camp experiences, so he is pleased that donations to his run
will make those experiences possible for these families.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></o:p> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">IGM Regional
Manager Tyler Minamyer said, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“IGM has
always been proud of the fact that we become a part of the community when we
take on a course. Todd has been with Widow’s Walk Golf Course since joining
IGM, and we’re happy to support him in doing this.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i>IGM has been involved with projects for
Boy Scouts, Habitat for Humanity, and United Way, among others in the
communities in which they maintain golf courses.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></o:p> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hugill
concurs that Minamyer and Steve Gano, IGM Vice-President of Operations, have
provided moral support throughout his training. In addition, his wife will continue
to inspire him, as she is also running in NYC, having received a running bib
through the marathon’s lottery system. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Our
kids are excited,”</i> said Hugill. For more information or to donate on
Hugill’s behalf, visit:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://www.crowdrise.com/Todd-TeamHITW2015NYCMarathon/fundraiser/toddhugill"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">https://www.crowdrise.com/Todd-TeamHITW2015NYCMarathon/fundraiser/toddhugill</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span>International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-47726223885882984892015-08-18T11:29:00.000-04:002015-08-18T11:34:18.972-04:00IGM Helps Caesar’s Improve Top 100 Ranking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5wTww7JxMvIQfjMotn_4xiIOe05CP5KtFvhs7zL3jWrprA4hGkcr3I7Km1QW_YWx9wZ6ZAWwGKluQXOadAhSMkJej74BbcufgJS7UAuvF2vxbh53MS50qPiyRu3Jfx9hKzkUz8hBdbY/s1600/LAS1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5wTww7JxMvIQfjMotn_4xiIOe05CP5KtFvhs7zL3jWrprA4hGkcr3I7Km1QW_YWx9wZ6ZAWwGKluQXOadAhSMkJej74BbcufgJS7UAuvF2vxbh53MS50qPiyRu3Jfx9hKzkUz8hBdbY/s320/LAS1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">IGM
is proud to work with Caesar’s Entertainment to maintain its two Las Vegas golf
courses, Rio Secco and Cascata. Both are high-end courses designed by renowned
architect Rees Jones. Over the past year, the collaboration between IGM and
Caesar’s has helped Cascata Golf Club move from a ranking of 53 to 46 in </span><u>Golf
Digest</u>’s, America’s Top 100 Public Golf Courses.</b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Golfers visiting Las Vegas are drawn to two
beautiful Rees Jones-designed golf courses that promise high-end performance:
Rio Secco and Cascata Golf Clubs, owned by Caesar’s Entertainment. Each course
brings challenges and renown to the golfing experience, and IGM is proud to be
the maintenance contractor for both.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Eric Dutt, vice-president for golf
operations for Caesar’s Entertainment, selected IGM to take over maintenance
responsibilities for the courses in February 2014. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I’m very pleased with the relationship,”</i> said Dutt. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“</i></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Greg Plotner and Steve Gano (</i>IGM’s Executive VP and VP of
Operations<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">) visit regularly, so I get the
value of their expertise and insight, in addition to the director of
maintenance, Jon Dodds, who oversees the courses on a daily basis.” </i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cascata Golf
Club in Boulder City, Nevada is now ranked 46th among top golf courses in the
country, up from 53rd in 2014, according to <u>Golf Digest</u>’s, America’s Top
100 Public Golf Courses. Dutt noted that Cascata is a 15-year-old course and
maintaining a ranking at that level, more so improving it, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“is a testament to the quality of IGM’s work, particularly with no
capital outlay at this point.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Rio Secco Golf Club in Henderson, Nevada is home to a
teaching facility run by Butch Harmon, often referred to as "the best golf
instructor in the world."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Harmon’s
students have included Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods, and he regularly brings
top touring professionals to the club. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Expectations
for superior performance at the course are very high,”</i> said Dutt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Without yet
making capital improvements, one of the major priorities at the courses has
been improving water utilization. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“We
have dramatically increased water savings by basing irrigation on the principle
of evapotranspiration, or factoring in the different watering needs created by
sun, wind, humidity and other conditions,”</i> said Steve Gano, VP of
Operations for IGM. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“We’re also using the
latest technology in wetting agents, products that break surface tension and
allow more water to be absorbed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
addition, we have raised and leveled sprinklers to improve distribution
uniformity.”</i> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Efficiency with
irrigation is a big deal in the desert; water is a precious, expensive
commodity,”</i> noted Dutt. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“We have
regular discussions about getting better performance at less cost.” </i>With a
combined 56,000 rounds of golf played at the two courses each year, daily
maintenance is a priority.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Gano added
that maintenance director Dodds’ crew includes a designated detail crew. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“They don’t ride the mowers. Their job is to
take care of the flowers, keep things pruned, and ensure the course looks
beautiful.”</i> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dutt is particularly happy from a business standpoint that
he is provided an accurate forecast of his annual maintenance expenses. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“That’s especially important with the way
the golf industry has been hit. I operate two high-end golf courses, and I need
them maintained in a way that allows us to charge the greens fees we do,”</i>
said Dutt. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“We serve some well-known
clients who expect a certain level of performance and experience.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Dutt
added, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The outsourcing model is out of
the box, but it’s a model course operators need to look at. Owners with
multiple facilities get the opportunity for economies of scale in such things
as overseeding. The team at IGM are agronomists as well as business people who
can help look at savings.”</i></span>International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-56323442495700500892015-08-03T11:14:00.002-04:002015-08-03T11:26:25.293-04:00IGM to Restore Cypress Greens Golf Course<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuDIRpwQ9KTifsU33LYjX-x6yeR55n3LwOjxUbY0qLZMtSr7j7zO3KYhFT4Aho0Q1Ot1j2BGKZxiJKzgH03qxuj59zpNbtvDryhnHozfPBJEX0y6sz8xJWbIEGZNaVBzrxKyLpuSmpkcs/s1600/Cypress_Greens_-_Cypress_Greens_333117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuDIRpwQ9KTifsU33LYjX-x6yeR55n3LwOjxUbY0qLZMtSr7j7zO3KYhFT4Aho0Q1Ot1j2BGKZxiJKzgH03qxuj59zpNbtvDryhnHozfPBJEX0y6sz8xJWbIEGZNaVBzrxKyLpuSmpkcs/s200/Cypress_Greens_-_Cypress_Greens_333117.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">IGM recently partnered with Sun Communities
to take over responsibilities for Cypress Greens golf course in Lake Alfred,
FL. IGM Executive Vice-President Greg Plotner and course superintendent Glenn
Esposito have plans to restore the course’s fairways and greens to optimal
playing conditions.<o:p></o:p></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">IGM is proud
to announce a new partnership with Sun Communities for the maintenance of the
Cypress Greens golf course in Lake Alfred, FL. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“It’s a great opportunity to restore this course to its former beauty
and playing performance,” </i>said IGM Executive Vice-President Greg Plotner<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When Sun
Communities purchased the Cypress Greens property, it was apparent the
retirement community’s golf course needed restoration. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The greens, tees, and bunkers were in bad shape,” </i>said Michael
Machikas, Divisional VP of Operations and Sales for Sun Communities. The
company had successfully outsourced their golf course maintenance services in
other communities, so they put the contract out for bid and subsequently hired
IGM in May 2015. Machikas said, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">was impressed with Greg and his hands-on
approach. He was knowledgeable and made recommendations for course improvements
right away.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Those
immediate recommendations included a focus on fertilization, weed control, and
updating the irrigation system and the maintenance facility. Plotner said, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“A lot of maintenance had been deferred. We
needed to get a sound agronomic program in place and ensure that the property
was being maintained consistently.” <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">IGM brought
in experienced superintendent Glenn Esposito to oversee the course restoration
and daily maintenance. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A previous
Cypress Greens maintenance employee remained on the crew. While the contractual
relationship is new, IGM is already in process of renovating the bunkers, leveling
tees and enlarging the teeing areas. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Machikas noted, “Cost was not our number one concern, but IGM was less expensive than
other bidders. More significantly, they were willing to do things the others
weren’t. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s clear they want to build a
partnership. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In business, you want to
work with someone willing to walk with you for the long-term.”</span></span></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-3956148198655754932015-06-22T08:11:00.000-04:002015-08-03T11:21:16.550-04:00Golf Course Upgrade at Brays Island Plantation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XIfaCTD_8Bo/UClfnGzQv5I/AAAAAAAAEmw/fPoqtwhsdUQ/s1600/022811%2BBrays%2BIsland%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XIfaCTD_8Bo/UClfnGzQv5I/AAAAAAAAEmw/fPoqtwhsdUQ/s320/022811%2BBrays%2BIsland%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Brays Island Plantation is in the midst of
a greens regrassing project led by their maintenance partner IGM, Inc. Brays
Island General Manager Kevin Rhatigan and IGM Regional Manager Tyler Minamyer discuss
the process they followed to protect the Plantation’s assets and minimize
disruption to players.<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Owners at
Brays Island Plantation in Sheldon, SC, are members of some of the finest golf
courses in the country. Naturally, they expect their course in this exclusive
hunting and golfing community to be of competitive quality. However, as the course
aged, the original irrigation system and greens from the 1980’s deteriorated, and
playing conditions became an issue for the golf course ownership.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">IGM, Inc.
was contracted in 2008 to manage complete maintenance of the Plantation’s Ron
Garl-designed course and practice facility. In collaboration with Brays Island Plantation’s
general manager, IGM Regional Manager Tyler Minamyer and course superintendent
Jeff Miller began a thorough evaluation of the course’s condition and
needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the outset, IGM knew the
original TifDwarf Bermuda grass had deteriorated and mutations had occurred
throughout the greens.<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This led to inferior playing conditions
compared to other courses in the area and fell well below the Owners’
expectations. Also, the irrigation system was original and had to be replaced
before addressing the turfgrass,” </i>explained Minamyer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From
2009-2011, IGM and Brays Island worked together to plan the renovation and
obtain funding approval for the irrigation replacement. During the slower
summer months of 2011, the replacement process began one hole at a time to
reduce disruptions to the golfers. Goals of the irrigation project were to
maintain the integrity and value of Brays Island’s asset, as well as to install
an efficient system with the longest useful life possible. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With the
successful completion of the irrigation project, the grass upgrade began.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Minamyer explained that the existing TifDwarf
Bermuda grass <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“affected how we over-seeded
the greens. New seed would not establish well in mutated areas, and those areas
transitioned poorly back to Bermuda grass in the spring.” </i>After evaluating
all grasses on the market, IGM and Brays Island chose TifEagle Bermuda grass as
best suiting the needs of the Plantation. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The
owners wanted faster, more consistent greens that were comparable to
competition. And TifEagle grass won’t require over-seeding, which means less
disruption to play and better performance during spring and fall when the Plantation
is busiest,”</i> said Minamyer. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To accomplish
the grassing renovation, the course closed on June 1, 2015 and is expected to
reopen on September 5, 2015. As part of the process, two greens were redesigned
to reduce severity of the slope and better accommodate a new type of grass. Overall
goals of the grassing project are to continue maintaining the integrity and
value of Brays Island’s asset, eliminate the risk of catastrophic failure due
to over-seeding and transition, improve playability of the greens during peak
and shoulder periods, allow for more consistency in playing conditions
throughout the entire year, remain competitive with area golf courses, and
improve owners’ enjoyment of the golf amenity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kevin
Rhatigan, General Manager of Brays Island Plantation, detailed the intense
up-front education required for the renovation, from educating the golf
committee and explaining the relationship between benefits and costs to
educating the Board, then presenting recommendations for a vote of the Owners
(425 property owners). <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“There was a lot
of scrutiny. Our relationship with IGM is a great partnership,”</i> said
Rhatigan. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“It’s not just having a comfort
level with a really good superintendent in Jeff Miller for day-to-day operations
but more like having on-site consultants to manage a major project like this. Tyler
Minamyer and Steve Gano </i>(Vice President of Operations, IGM)<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> visit regularly, so we have the benefit of
their years of experience. They’ve done a great job for us.”</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Minamyer
noted,<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> “We have methodically worked to
maintain and improve quality of the owners’ asset and meet their goals. Everything
has to be replaced at some point, but we’ll do everything we can to extend the
useful life of the course and recommend investments in the course that will
have the greatest potential for return. .” <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span>International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-56986410931327053492015-05-27T16:14:00.000-04:002015-08-03T11:20:53.326-04:00Winter Thaw at The Ledges Golf Club: IGM Restores Greens to Tournament Conditions<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnCkMNs-Ud0e42osngCA-mX-NFjZL6QylPW05wfUAiQIJTTkM6cX9xIDJr_3ZPppyE1DUHsZ0aAPm0_6ggNxOQP3KWdk4Ft56gduIewGWO-pOqw2b0ih3IsH8hUDfA6g8OwfGufNnQWZk/s1600/1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnCkMNs-Ud0e42osngCA-mX-NFjZL6QylPW05wfUAiQIJTTkM6cX9xIDJr_3ZPppyE1DUHsZ0aAPm0_6ggNxOQP3KWdk4Ft56gduIewGWO-pOqw2b0ih3IsH8hUDfA6g8OwfGufNnQWZk/s320/1.jpeg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">While
most of New England was still recovering from harsh winter storms, the IGM team
at </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Ledges Golf Club in South Hadley, Massachusetts was preparing the 18-hole
course for a major tournament. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
Ledges hosted its first Connecticut Section PGA championship May 14 - 15, with
an opening day temperature of 30 degrees. Superintendent Mike Fontaine with
IGM, said his crew had roughly three weeks to ensure the course was in playing
condition for the tournament’s golfers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“The local pros were awesome. Everyone
in the area knows about the damage, and I think they were very surprised at how
well the course came together,” said Fontaine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
Ledges is typically closed from Thanksgiving to April, with snowfall expected
in the town west of Boston. “What was odd
this year was a heavy rainstorm in early January. Before it could run off the
course, it froze. That was followed by snow storms that just kept coming. We
had 7-foot snow drifts on the greens,” Fontaine explained. “When we scouted the course in early March,
we realized we had about two inches of ice under the snow.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fontaine
and his four-person winter crew implemented a plan to restore the grass as quickly as
possible. A snow-blower helped clear the snow, and a layer of sand was spread
to melt the ice faster. By the end of March, the crew was able to double-spike
and over-seed the greens, which were then top-dressed and fertilized. “When it finally warmed up about two weeks
before the tournament, Mother Nature went to work on the seed and fertilizer to
get the greens in shape.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Mike and his team worked from the main play
areas outward, prioritizing their time based on course knowledge. With so much
to accomplish, Mike placed a priority on greens, fairways and tees. Once these
areas were completed, the team focused on bringing the entire property up to
expectations,” said <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Steve Gano,
IGM’s Vice President of Operations.</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While
the course was closed an extra week this winter, Fontaine maintained close
communications with the General Manager, golf agronomists, and the community
about what they were doing and why. “We
know the town needs the course open to bring in revenue. Our goal is for
everyone to have a good experience every time they come out here,” said
Fontaine.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
result was an outstanding playing surface to host the Connecticut Section PGA
championship, in an environment that represented South Hadley admirably. </span><a href="http://www.masslive.com/golf/index.ssf/2015/05/praise_of_augusta_big_compliment_for_ledges_gc_superintendent_mike_fontaine_staff.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">TheMassLive blog</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> quoted Kevin Shea, from Great Neck Country Club, as saying, “Conditions were perfect. It was Augusta out
there.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1580639536563985246.post-42331145250204727852015-05-26T10:13:00.000-04:002015-05-26T10:14:36.625-04:00IGM in the News<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Area golf courses bouncing back from winter whiteout</strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By <span itemprop="name">Michael Whitmer</span> Boston Globe Staff <time datetime="2015-05-23 04:00" itemprop="datePublished">May 23, 2015</time> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aside from a chance of rain on Monday, it appears to be a glorious Memorial Day weekend forecast, the perfect kind of weather to go out and play some golf.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just don’t expect the golf course to be in perfect shape.</span><br />
</div>
<div class="ad aside" data-adname-complete="true" style="text-align: justify;">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="0" id="google_ads_iframe_/61381659/bostonglobe.com/sports_1__hidden__" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/61381659/bostonglobe.com/sports_1__hidden__" scrolling="no" src="javascript:"<html><body style='background:transparent'></body></html>"" style="border-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: none; vertical-align: bottom; visibility: hidden;" width="0">&amp;lt;font face="Verdana, sans-serif"&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/font&amp;gt;</iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The record-setting snow that blanketed Boston for much of the year’s first four months delayed the opening of nearly every golf course in the state. When the snow finally did melt away, course superintendents discovered that the challenges winter brought would extend well into spring, maybe longer. Some have it worse than others — there are still temporary greens being used — but almost every course is dealing with the after-effects of more than 100 inches of snow from a mean, unforgiving winter.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I can tell you, in the Western Mass. area, there’s still a large group of boys still recovering. Mother Nature was pretty vicious,” said Mike Fontaine, superintendent at The Ledges Golf Club, a daily-fee facility in South Hadley. “Even still, now that the snow is gone, her weather pattern has not been all that great. Guys are chasing, getting all aspects of their golf courses ready to go.”</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the golf industry, especially here in the Northeast, Memorial Day is a key weekend; it’s when course operators and superintendents want their place to shine. It signals a start to the golf season, the unofficial start to summer, and draws eager golfers who are ready to play more after a long, forced break.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<!-- total:0 --><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With the snow long gone and recent temperatures in the 70s, those golfers might expect area courses to be in midseason form. This year, those expectations aren’t reasonable, and likely won’t be met, at least not yet.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The issue at many courses is damage from winter kill: grass that has died, either from a layer of ice, or a combination of other factors that can lead to the plant suffocating. This time, though, there was one main culprit.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“It was the weather this year,” said Jim Skorulski, the US Golf Association’s agronomist for the Northeast region. “We can deal with weather, just not the extremes, like heavy rain or strong winds. The winter this year was extreme, there’s no doubt.”</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It’s interesting, because some courses had more damage than others, and some courses experienced damage on certain parts of their course, but not others. Growing grass — and keeping it alive — in these kinds of conditions isn’t easy.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“A lot of the things that we’ve done, and a lot of the things a lot of my colleagues have done over the years, is improve the growing sites that greens and golf courses are on. They’re doing work on drainage, they’re working on tree removal to get more sunlight in. I think a lot of what’s happening in the winter has more to do with drainage and shade and environmental factors that we can control,” said Mike Luccini, the superintendent at Franklin Country Club and president of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New England. “What you see coming out of the winter is very course-specific, whether it’s good, bad, or indifferent. What happens over here might not be the same thing people are experiencing 5, 10, 20 miles away.”</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There have been a few positive course stories this spring. George Wright Golf Course in Hyde Park and the William J. Devine course at Franklin Park were the hosts of the Massachusetts Four-Ball Championship on May 12-13. With the courses opening two weeks later this year (April 17) than last, it didn’t leave much time for the course maintenance staffs preparing them to welcome and challenge the best amateur players in the state. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“We were very concerned. We know the reputation that George Wright has, so we were more concerned for Franklin Park,” said Dennis Roache, who manages both city-owned courses. “The Four-Ball gave us an opportunity to showcase Franklin Park, and for those who had never been here, we didn’t want them to have a bad experience.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“We were very concerned about the conditions, but they got both courses looking phenomenal. Up to 10 days before we were worried that we’d be in April conditions for a May tournament.”</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It will take much longer for most area courses to hit their peak condition, and that is no guarantee. A lot will depend on the weather we get going forward. Seasonal weather will help: Heat, warm nights, precipitation.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Everybody is still nicked up, I would say,” said Fontaine, who had The Ledges ready to open April 24, the latest start date he can remember in nearly 30 years in the profession. “Superintendents are very proud of what they do, nobody wants a golf course to grow in faster than we do.”</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Until then, a little patience and understanding is recommended. Winter set everybody back, reflected in most courses not opening until late April, some in early May. It will take time for the bluegrass and bentgrass greens used on the majority of area courses to get completely healthy.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“They might look healed, but they’re not. They might look recovered, but they’re not,” said Skorulski. “It’s so true in this case: Be patient. Everyone’s working hard to get them back. I would guess, based on historical principles, we’re probably looking at mid-June, maybe early July for really damaged courses to get back to normal.”</span></div>
<!----><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Michael Whitmer can be reached at </span><a class="a" href="mailto:mwhitmer@globe.com"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">mwhitmer@globe.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. Follow him on Twitter </span><a class="a" href="http://twitter.com/GlobeWhitmer"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">@GlobeWhitmer</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em></em></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><em>Source: </em><!-- inside story_update.jpt --> </span><a href="http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2015/05/22/area-courses-bouncing-back-from-tough-winter/geoSmzOOqbNbUQt1BLhsCJ/story.html#comments"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2015/05/22/area-courses-bouncing-back-from-tough-winter/geoSmzOOqbNbUQt1BLhsCJ/story.html#comments</span></a></div>
International Golf Maintenance, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08239396428942842530noreply@blogger.com