As I write this president message and reflect on my years serving as an LIGCSA board member, I realize how fortunate I have been to meet and work alongside members committed to the betterment of LIGCSA. The board’s dedication and progressive decision making has made the Long Island Golf Course Superintendents Association a leader in the golf industry.

 

The creation of the Industry Partner program has allowed the LIGCSA to increase attendance at events and fund research projects and movements such as the New York State Golf Course Best Management Practices.  Thank you to all of our sponsors!

 

  The annual Education Conference at Bethpage has become a marquee event on our calendar with some of the finest speakers in the country attending and presenting their work. The happy hour at the Golf Industry Show this past February was a great chance to get together with many of you in the warm, Florida sun!  This year marked the second year of LIGCSA's winter charity bowling event and to date, LIGCSA has donated over $3,000 to organizations such as Cohens Children’s Medical Center and Sloan Kettering Child Life services.  Thank you to all who have attended and participated in these events.

 

Paul Johnson did a great job as our first class C representative on the board and we are proud to now welcome Ethan Haveman of The Muttontown Club into this role.  The construction of the website and Twitter feed has enable us to advertise LIGCSA and our industry partners, showcase our events and it has served a great tool for member services.  Additionally, this year, the LIGCSA is sponsoring a local Saturday morning golf show, On Par, hosted by Anthony Socrcia.

 

I would like to thank all past board members involved with LIGCSA and recognize them for their commitment to the LIGCSA and their guidance.  A special thank you to Past President Pete Cash and our Executive Secretary, Lyn Ritchie, who is instrumental in the successful day to day operation of the LIGCSA.

 

Our 2017 Executive Board consists of Vice President Brian Benedict, Secretary Joe Gardner, and Treasurer Michael Kehoan.  The Executive Board welcomes back Directors of the Board Tim Benedict, Tom Kaplun, Ken Lochridge, Ken Frank, and first year Director Luke Knutson.   This year’s board  is off and running, advocating for our profession in local government and has planned some great events.

 

LIGCSA is currently working with government officials on important topics such as LINAP- Long Island Nitrogen Action Plan, Long Island Pesticide Pollution Strategy and demonstrating to local officials how the BMPs on golf courses on Long Island are promoting environmental stewardship at the forefront of our decision making.

 

Thank you to Brian MacMillan and the entire staff at Port Jefferson Country Club for hosting the spring scramble— great conditions and a great time had by all. What a view off that back deck! Our annual scholarship outing at Bethpage Red is only 1 week away, signup with Lyn, ligcsa@aol.com.

 

July 31st the LIGCSA will hold the annual beach party at a new venue, Nickerson Beach.  Nickerson beach will allow families to gather for an afternoon and enjoy the beach, pool, and play 9 holes on the chip and putt executive course.  The social will also include dinner and the presentation of the annual scholarships. Details to come...

 

Pete Cash and Huntington Crescent Club will host an 18-hole event on August 15th followed by the Superintendent/Club Official hosted by Jay Glover at West Hampton Country Club on October 10th and the Assistants Tournament hosted by Jim Choinski at South Hampton Golf Club on October 23rd.

 

In late August another one of Long Island’s finest courses will be showcased across the world as Glen Oaks will host the Northern Trust.  Congratulations to Past President Craig Currier and his team!

 

The season is off to a fast, albeit wet start.  I am excited to assume the role of President, working with a great group of board members, and striving to improve the the resources and outreach of LIGCSA for our members and sponsors.  Have a great 2017 golf season!