Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council News

David Guerin, Jr. Receives the 2025 Dr. George W. Hamilton, Jr. Distinguished Service Award!

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 21:54:33 GMT

The Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council's Dr. George W. Hamilton, Jr. Distinguished Service Award is presented to individuals who have exhibited outstanding service to the turfgrass industry. The award is considered PTC’s highest individual honor and recipients are recognized by the membership in a formal ceremony at the PTC winter conferences. The 2025 Award is presented to David Guerin, Jr.

For more than half a century, Dave Guerin Jr. has been a pillar of the turfgrass and golf course management community. His journey at E.H. Griffith, Inc. began humbly—working in the warehouse, unloading fertilizer from rail cars, and serving customers face-to-face. From those early days, Dave absorbed every detail of the business, building a foundation of knowledge and respect for the industry that would shape his career.

After earning his business degree from Penn State University, Dave returned to E.H. Griffith with renewed purpose. Rising through the ranks to vice president and ultimately president, he carried forward the legacy of his father while forging his own path of leadership. His tenure has been marked not only by business success but by an unwavering commitment to service, integrity, and community.

Dave’s contributions to the industry are widely recognized. He has consistently invested in the future of the profession, offering financial support to both local and national golf associations and funding turfgrass scholarships for Penn State students. His philosophy of “paying it forward” has ensured that generations of young professionals have the opportunity to thrive.

Equally important is the culture Dave has cultivated at E.H. Griffith. He surrounds himself with a team he considers family, instilling values of respect, integrity, and dedication to customer service. Many of his employees have spent their entire careers at the company, a testament to the environment he has nurtured. Under his leadership, E.H. Griffith has earned numerous national awards for sales and service—achievements rooted in Dave’s genuine appreciation for the turfgrass industry.

Dave Guerin Jr.’s career is more than a story of professional success; it is a testament to the power of legacy, mentorship, and community. His decades of service, his generosity, and his leadership embody the very spirit of this honor.

PTC congratulates David on this award!

Jim Claxton Scholarship - Turf Producers of MD

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 17:19:19 GMT

Turfgrass Producers of MD are offering the Jim Claxton Scholarship. This scholarship memorializes Jim Claxton, a former Newsom Seed sales representative, and the contributions he made to the natural turfgrass industry.

The main eligibility requirement is the student (high school senior or currently in college) should reside or attend school in the Mid-Atlantic area, with preference to those in Maryland or one of its adjoining states. Preference also may be given to students who intend to pursue a turfgrass career.

Applications are due by Saturday, May 31, 2025. Completed applications will be accepted through the online form on the TPM website (https://turfproducersofmd.com/scholarship). It is a short application. Funds distributed range from $500 to $1,500. If applicant caliber is high, more than one award may be offered.

Please send any questions to Sara Lechlider, Business Development Manager, SiteOne Landscape Supply – Newsom Seed Branch #1196
Cell: 240-418-7676
Office: 800-553-2719

John Chassard Receives the 2024 George Hamilton Distinguished Service Award

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 15:29:36 GMT

John Chassard – His Journey in Golf and Turf Management

John's love for golf—and the idea of being on a golf course—began in his early youth. He was fortunate to spend much of his childhood at Saucon Valley Country Club in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where his father served as the tennis and squash pro for 23 years. It was here that John first walked countless rounds of golf on the club's 6-hole course, often with friends, and occasionally convinced (begged) his father to take him out on one of the "big" championship courses. At times, John would also find himself on his bike in a part-time game of being chased by the golf pro while searching for golf balls along the course's stream banks. John spent more time on the golf course than on the tennis courts, and he cherished every moment of it.

After moving to Lancaster, John worked on course maintenance at Indian Springs Golf Course (now Four Seasons) while finishing high school and attending Millersville University, where he initially studied Oceanography. But after his first year at Millersville, John realized he was more passionate about life on the course than life on the ocean. At this turning point, he reached out to Dave Miller, the Superintendent at Saucon Valley, for advice. Dave encouraged John to return to Saucon Valley, work under him, and apply to the two-year turf management program at Penn State University—advice John took to heart.

While at Penn State, John took an internship on Long Island. During this time, Dave Miller once again reached out to him, encouraging him to contact the Superintendent at Lehigh Country Club in Allentown about an assistant position that had just become available. Ironically, John had never heard of Lehigh, despite it being less than 10 miles from Saucon Valley. That phone call from Dave Miller led to what would become a 42-year career at Lehigh. Dave continued to be a mentor and friend throughout John's career until his passing. Along the way, John also received valuable guidance from Scott Nissley and Marty Nadenicek, superintendents at Indian Springs and Lehigh, respectively, who played a pivotal role in John's development as a turf professional.

Over the span of his 42-year career at Lehigh, John formed many meaningful relationships and friendships, both professionally and personally. He credits his faith in Christ for helping him navigate the more challenging aspects of his career and for blessing him with the longevity he has enjoyed in the turf management field. John has had the privilege of working alongside many talented peers, club members, and fellow employees who have not only helped him become a better manager but also a better person.

John's involvement with local Superintendent chapters has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his career. Serving for 15 years with the Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council was an especially fulfilling experience. There he worked alongside university staff and turf professionals from across the state contributing to the advancement of golf both in Pennsylvania and globally. John served as PTC’s President from 2005-2006.

Though John is proud of his professional achievements, his greatest reward comes from being the best husband and father/stepfather he can be. He tries to live by the reminder that "knowledge is sometimes proud that it knows so much, while wisdom knows in the realization that it knows so little." For John, this mindset has been a guiding principle in both his career and personal life.

PTC congratulates John on this award!

Welcoming New Faculty to Penn State’s Turfgrass Science Program

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 18:25:06 GMT

The Center for Turfgrass Science and the Department of Plant Science is thrilled to announce two exceptional additions to our faculty: Dr. Manoj Chhetri and Dr. Chase Straw. Their expertise and dedication to advancing the field of turfgrass science through education, research, and industry collaboration will undoubtedly strengthen our program’s legacy of excellence.

Dr. Manoj Chhetri: Assistant Teaching Professor in Turfgrass Science

Dr. Manoj Chhetri joins us as an Assistant Teaching Professor in Turfgrass Science. With a deep passion for education and research, Dr. Chhetri brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our program.

Dr. Chhetri holds a Ph.D. in Horticulture from Kansas State University, where he focused on cultural strategies for zoysiagrass management in the transition zone. His academic journey also includes an M.S. in Horticulture from Oklahoma State University, where he investigated the effects of shade and drought stress on bermudagrass. These research endeavors have equipped him with a strong foundation in managing turfgrass under challenging environmental conditions.

Before joining Penn State, Dr. Chhetri served as an Extension Field Specialist in Horticulture at the University of Missouri. In this role, he delivered science-based education to homeowners, turf managers, and service providers, addressing practical challenges and developing innovative solutions for the turfgrass industry.

At Penn State, Dr. Chhetri’s primary focus is on teaching and mentoring students in turfgrass management. He is also committed to conducting research on sustainable practices that enhance turfgrass resilience under abiotic stress. His approach emphasizes blending academic rigor with real-world applications, ensuring students are well-prepared to tackle industry challenges.

Dr. Chhetri is enthusiastic about contributing to Penn State’s legacy of excellence in turfgrass science. He aims to foster collaboration with industry professionals, advance sustainable turfgrass practices, and promote environmentally responsible turf systems.

Dr. Chase Straw: Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Soils and Director of the Center for Sports Surface Research

Dr. Chase Straw joins us as an Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Soils and the Director of the Center for Sports Surface Research. With a distinguished background in turfgrass management and physiology, Dr. Straw is a valuable addition to our team.

Dr. Straw earned his B.S. in Turfgrass Science from the University of Kentucky, followed by M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Georgia. His academic pursuits have been complemented by practical experience, including two years as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Minnesota. In February 2020, he began his role as an Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Management and Physiology at Texas A&M University, where he served for nearly five years before joining Penn State in January 2025.

At Penn State, Dr. Straw’s role includes a 40% research, 40% teaching, and 20% extension appointment. His research focuses on technology-driven strategies to enhance the performance and sustainability of golf courses and sports fields. Additionally, he serves as the Academic Director on the Sports Field Management Association’s Board of Directors, further solidifying his leadership in the industry.

Dr. Straw’s vision for the Center for Sports Surface Research includes fostering innovation and collaboration with industry professionals to address the evolving challenges of sports surface management. He is dedicated to equipping students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to the field.

Looking Ahead

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Manoj Chhetri and Dr. Chase Straw to Penn State! Their combined expertise and passion will undoubtedly make a significant impact on our program and the broader turfgrass and sports surface industries.

2024/2025 Watson Scholarship Award

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 12:23:18 GMT

Congratulations to Wilson D. Kreitz (4-year program) and Chase Groelle (2-year program) for receiving the Dr. James R. Watson Jr. Memorial Turfgrass Award for the 2024/2025 academic year!

Wilson is currently a sophomore in the College of Agricultural Science majoring in Turfgrass Science, with a minor in Agribusiness Management. Learn more about Wilson here.

Chase is currently enrolled in his second year of the Golf Course Turfgrass Management Professional Certificate Program.

The Dr. James R. Watson Jr. Memorial Turfgrass Award supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a degree in turfgrass science. Eligibility for this award includes students enrolled or planning to enroll in the College of Agricultural Sciences who have achieved exemplary academic success in a turfgrass degree or certification program. Half of the available income shall be awarded to a student in the 2- year Turfgrass Science and Management program and half of the available income shall be awarded to a student in the 4-year Turfgrass Science program.

Fall 2024 Scholarship Winners

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 14:39:24 GMT

PTC donates $12,000 annually to the PA Turfgrass Council Turf Program Scholarship. These scholarships support undergraduate students pursuing a degree in turfgrass science at Penn State University. Half is awarded to undergraduate students in the 2-year Turfgrass Science and Management program and half is awarded to undergraduate students in the 4-year Turfgrass Science program.

Congratulations to the Fall 2024 Recipients: Michael Chaloupka, Aidan Huedepohl, and Carter Marshall!

Field goals achieved at Westinghouse Academy with help from Penn State Extension

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 19:04:17 GMT

The football field at Westinghouse Academy in Pittsburgh was in bad shape. Its surface was as hard as a kitchen floor, riddled with divots that posed serious injury risks to the young athletes. But thanks to the dedicated efforts of Penn State Extension educators and their network, this field has been transformed into a safe facility that promises to be a game-changer for the community.

Click here to read the full article.

Penn State Student Interns with USGA Green Section

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 15:41:39 GMT

For over 25 years, the USGA Green Section has provided an opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to participate in an immersive internship experience. Many USGA Green Section interns have gone on to prominent careers as superintendents, professors and turf industry professionals. Manuel Salado, a student of Penn State's Golf Course Turfgrass Managment Program, has earned a 2024 internship. Click here to read more.

2024 Green Industry Current Issues for June

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:38:02 GMT

Check out this digital publication from Penn State Extension detailing pest and disease activity observed in June, 2024.

CLICK HERE FOR THE ARTICLE

2024 State FFA Turfgrass Career Development Event

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 15:14:41 GMT

The Pennsylvania State FFA Activities week took place June 11-13, 2024 at Penn State University, University Park, PA. FFA is the premier youth organization preparing members for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture.

Since 1928, FFA has worked to create Career Development Events (CDE) & Leadership Development Events (LDE) that demonstrate the meaningful connections between classroom instruction and real-life scenarios. CDEs & LDE's build on what is learned in agricultural classes and the FFA.

A Turfgrass Science CDE was featured again as part of the 2024 FFA CDEs at Pennsylvania's state contest. Students competed in a multiple choice test, weed, insect, disease, equipment, and turfgrass identification, as well as spreader and sprayer calibration and site evaluation. The students also met with guest speakers from the golf, sports, and lawn and landscape sectors of the industry. The event culminated in a tour of Beaver Stadium.

We hope to continue to grow this event and make young people aware of the exciting opportunities available in the turfgrass industry.

PTC Scholarship Awarded to Penn State Turfgrass Student

Wed, 29 May 2024 17:12:34 GMT

The PTC awards scholarships to graduating Turfgrass Science students who have demonstrated excellent academic records during their Penn State career.

The spring 2024 scholarship was awarded to Chase Minnick. Chase is originally from Gillett, PA and is now working at Oakmont.

Please join us in congratulating Chase in his academic achievements.

Penn State Teams Compete in SFMA Student Collegiate Challenge

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 16:46:39 GMT

The SFMA Student Challenge takes place annually at the SFMA Conference and Exhibition. Each year students from 2-year and 4-year colleges and universities across the country compete in an exam that challenges knowledge in the sports field industry. The winning teams receive a cash award, a plaque and medallions for each team member. The prize money benefits the institution’s turfgrass science program and creates opportunities for students pursuing a career in sports field management.

The 2024 SFMA Conference took place in Daytona Beach, FL from Jan. 22-25. The Student Challenge took place Wednesday, Jan. 24. Penn State was represented by two 4-year teams and one 2-year team, totalling 12 students.

Congratulations to our 2-year team for placing 1st in the 2-year division! Team members included Simon Wattier, Camden Macek, Tyler Houghton, and Jake Gartley.

Congratulations to our 4-year team for placing 3rd in the 4-year division! Team members included Chase Minnick, Ryan Zolotsky, Dylan DeSchamp, and Aidan Huedepohl.

And congratulations to our second 4-year team - Ryan Daub, Kyler McGowan, Bill Hilderhoff, and Ian Bowes.

We are proud to have you representing Penn State and Pennsylvania's Turfgrass Industry!

PTC Awards Two Scholarships to Penn State Turfgrass Students

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:45:31 GMT

The PTC awards its scholarship to graduating Turfgrass Science students who have demonstrated excellent academic records during their Penn State career. Jonathan Rankin and Zack Newsome are the Fall 2023 recipients of the PTC academic scholarships.

Jonathan Rankin is a native of Ligonier, PA. He has completed multiple internships during his time as a student including Muirfield Village Golf Club, Rolling Rock Club, Laurel Valley Golf Club, and Colonial Country Club in Texas, where he is currently employed while finishing his degree. His plans after graduation are to continue working at Colonial Country Club and to eventually move back north to the Pittsburgh area.

Zack Newsome is originally from Claymont, DE and is the student marshal for the College of Agricultural Sciences at the Fall 2023 Penn State commencement ceremonies. During his time at Penn State, he has interned with the Beaver Stadium Grounds Crew, Wilmington Country Club, and Oakmont Country Club. He plans to attend graduate school after graduation.

Please join us in congratulating them on their academic accomplishments!

Jeffrey "Vern" Borger Receives the 2023 George Hamilton Distinguished Service Award

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 15:44:45 GMT

The Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council's Dr. George W. Hamilton, Jr. Distinguished Service Award is presented to individuals who have exhibited outstanding service to the turfgrass industry. The award is considered PTC’s highest individual honor and recipients are recognized by the membership in a formal ceremony at the Penn State Golf Turf Conference. The 2023 Award was presented to Jeff Borger.

Jeff 'Vern' Borger retired from Penn State University on August 31, 2023 after 33 years of employment. Jeff started his career in turfgrass science when his dear friend and neighbor, Dr. George Hamilton, convinced him to pursue a career in turf and become Dr. Tom Watschke's technician. It was George Hamilton that gave Jeff the nickname Vern. When Jeff began working for Penn State, George introduced him to everyone as Vern. During his career at PSU, Jeff earned a B.S. Degree in Turfgrass Science and an M.S. Degree in Agronomy. When Dr. Watschke retired, Jeff became the Assistant Teaching Professor in Turfgrass Weed Management. Jeff taught and did research for 18 years and became well known for the work he did.

The PA Turfgrass Council thanks him for his help over the years. Jeff was in charge of the Western PA Conference education program for years, then also took over the education program for the Eastern Conference and Northeastern Conferences.

Jeff is very honored to receive the PA Turfgrass Council Distinguished Service Award named after Dr. George W. Hamilton, Jr. who got him started in the Turf Industry.

The PA Turfgrass Council wishes Jeff and his wife Kathy the best as he begins retirement.

Penn State Turf and Ornamentals Field Day

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 15:42:53 GMT

On August 1, 2023, Penn State hosted the Turf and Ornamental Field Day. Field Day is our chance to show you the results of turfgrass research designed for golf course superintendents, sports turf managers, and lawn care operators; and provide tours and hands-on demonstrations for landscapers, nursery operators, and others interested in ornamental horticulture.

Thank you to all of our speakers, sponsors, and suppliers that helped to make the day a success!

State FFA Turfgrass Career Development Event

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 15:41:23 GMT

FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. Each year, Penn State hosts FFA State Convention and Activities week for Pennsylvania high school students. This year, the event took place June 13-15. During this time, students compete in Leadership Development Events (LDEs) and Career Development Events (CDEs). The events are designed to help prepare students for careers in agriculture and beyond. Classroom instruction comes alive as students demonstrate their skills in a competitive setting. CDEs & LDE's test the abilities of individuals and teams in 23 major areas of agricultural instruction.

For the second year, turfgrass science was featured as a CDE event. Students competed individually or on teams to conduct a site evaluation, calibrate a fertilizer spreader, identify turfgrasses, weeds, insects, and diseases, interpret a pesticide label, and more! Following the event, students had the opportunity to get on the field at Beaver Stadium, tour Medlar Field, and learn how to paint a logo.

Congratulations to all of the student participants on a successful event! Taking first place as a team - Tulpehocken FFA, second place - Conrad Weiser FFA, and third place - Monroe Area AVTS FFA. Taking first place as an individual - Ethan Bretzius, second place - Hannah Vazquez Colon.

Special thanks goes to Tom Bettle and the Joseph Valentine Turfgrass Research Center Turf Team, Jon Seaman, Dr. Carson Letot, Chris Gawryla, and Matt Neri. This day would not have been possible without their help!

PTC Awards Three Scholarships to Penn State Turfgrass Students

Wed, 03 May 2023 15:35:47 GMT

The PTC awards its scholarship to graduating Turfgrass Science students who have demonstrated excellent academic records during their Penn State career. Eric Dowd, Jesse Darlington III, and Nate Moore are the Spring 2023 recipients of the PTC academic scholarships.

Jesse Darlington III is a native of Centre Hall, Pennsylvania. In addition to interning with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Jesse has also worked at the Joseph Valentine Turfgrass Research Center on the University Park campus during his time as a student. He plans to attend graduate school.

Eric Dowd is from of Olympia, Washington and has interned with Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, and the Beaver Stadium Grounds Crew at the University Park campus. After graduation, Eric plans to return to Washington and will be employed as an assistant superintendent at Salish Cliffs Golf Course in Shelton, WA.

Nate Moore is originally from Macungie, Pennsylvania. He completed an internship with Saucon Valley Country Club in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. He also completed a summer internship with the Beaver Stadium Grounds Crew with an emphasis on softball field maintenance. Nate also worked for the Beaver Stadium Grounds Crew as a student employee for four years. He plans to work for the Reading Phillies after graduation.

Please join us in congratulating them on their academic accomplishments!