Education committees getting it right

As the winter education season is officially upon us, educational and networking events have ramped up across the region over the past few weeks, and they have not disappointed. Chapter boards and education committees have done an outstanding job this season putting together educational events that are both relevant and entertaining.

Earlier in the month, the Wisconsin GCSA held its Annual Meeting & Turf Symposium, which takes place each year at the American Club in Kohler, Wis. As one of the marquee events on the WGCSA calendar, this two-day event provides a wealth of education and networking opportunities. My hat goes off to the WGCSA education committee. They brought in university professors from around the region to speak on a variety of topics, as well as professionals from related industries to discuss labor issues and arbor care. The theme this year was 'Protecting your Grass' with an image of a male donkey on the cover. The symposium offered just that with information to protect both your turf and your backside. Not only were agronomic issues addressed, the topics of advocacy, community relations and the promotion of the profession were covered in depth and left a lasting impression on the attendees. I'm already looking forward to next year's theme and program.

WGCSA president Jon Canavan welcoming all to the 2016 Turf Symposium.

The following week, and about 270 miles south of Kohler, annual meetings continued in Illinois. Beginning with the Central Illinois GCSA, 15-year GCSAA member and Class A superintendent Raymond Actis welcomed members from the CIGCSA to Crestewicke Country Club for their annual meeting and education seminar. Another great line-up of speakers (and no I'm not just saying that because I was on the program) were on hand for the event to offer insights on upcoming research being done in the region. The event included incoming CIGCSA president and 13-year Class A member Greg Willman presenting to the membership on how he continues to move the association forward.

Dr. Kopsell from ISU discussing his upcoming research.

Wrapping up the week, members of the Midwest Association of Golf Course Superintendents (MAGCS) met at Medinah Country Club for the always popular Turf Clinic and Annual Meeting. The MAGCS' education committee did another outstanding job lining up speakers for this year's event. Not only was education provided on soil testing and combating various turf diseases, Wrigley Field head groundskeeper Justin Spillman was on hand to discuss the 'ins and outs' of maintaining the ballpark during the Chicago Cubs historic championship run; I believe the MAGCS' education committee is already lining up the same presentation to take place in the year 2124.

Wrigley Field head groundskeeper Justin Spillman presenting at Medinah CC.

These are just a few of the great examples of chapter boards and education committees going above and beyond to provide world-class events for their fellow members. I personally am able to take a great deal away from each of these events and know I can say the same for all of those who attended. I would like to thank those individuals who have served and are currently serving on their respective boards, as it takes sacrifice and dedication to ensure members are receiving full value from their membership. If you have not been out to a chapter event recently, I challenge you to attend in 2017. You will not be disappointed!

I want wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season as you spend time with family and friends. I look forward to seeing you in 2017!