Late Winter Update

Welcome back!!

First, I am once again thrilled, humbled and honored that I was offered an extension of my employment contract. I have had many happy moments at Potowomut, and I expect many more over the next few years after accepting and signing our new agreement. Thanks to everyone for your wonderful and unwavering support!!

Not much happened on the golf course since late December when she laid down for winter slumber. However, we do have a few things to tell you about.

First, brothers and Assistant Superintendents Dan and Steve Virgulak began a two year golf turf education program at Rutgers University's Cook College just after January 1st. They are learning from many of the world's most respected turfgrass professors and researchers. Upon completion next March, they will earn a Certificate in Turfgrass Science which will enable them to expand their horizons in the exciting world of turf maintenance. This is an exciting time for both Dan and Steve. As a graduate of Penn State's Agronomy program years ago, I am thrilled they have both invested in their careers, and am excited for their bright futures. Dan and Steve return to work on March 22nd.

The golf course weathered winter weather with A+ grades. Greens, tees and fairways are in excellent shape. Greens were mowed and opened for play on 3/9. Warmer spring weather is due in a few weeks, when combined with our current conditions will provide for an amazing early year for golf at Potowomut. Please tell your friends!!

Over the winter, despite fewer crew members, we concentrated on keeping the golf course clean. After each storm or wind event, Mac was out raking and picking brush and debris from the course. Thanks to him, we are far ahead of where we would have been without his efforts. This will enable us to delay bringing back many employees for a few weeks, saving valuable budget funds. He also continued our work to saw through those pesky tree roots evident growing above ground. Using our stump grinder, he severed hundreds of these tree roots, as you will see the first few times you play during March. We will work to replace the root shavings with soil and seed as soon as possible.

We hope to see you soon, holding golf bags instead of snow shovels. Please excuse me, as I have a meeting with some pine cones on the 9th hole.