by Brian Duthu
Pro Shops
As they did in June, total rounds for July increased slightly over prior year. For the month 13,698 hearty souls played a round of golf. Year-to-date rounds remain well ahead of prior year and ahead of recent averages.
We currently have 109 participants signed up to participate in our Patriot Day golf event on August 29th. Patriot Golf Day was organized, with the help of PGA of America, to raise funds for the Folds of Honor Foundation. The money raised is used to fund scholarships for spouses and children of military service men and women killed or disabled while serving our country. Starters will also be collecting donations through the pro shops from August 29th through September 1st.
Snack Shops
Snack Shop revenue benefitted from increased play, exceeding budgeted revenue by $1,500. Normal Snack Shop closing time remains at 1:00 p.m., however hours can be extended should the demand arise. Work on the North patio expansion continues and is expected to be ready for the course reopening.
Courses
Palm tree trimming began at the South course and is continuing throughout all the courses, with the exception of Riverview. Due to the upcoming renovation at Riverview the palm trees will not be trimmed this year.
All courses are spraying for weeds, including Nutsedge. As the Nutsedge dies it will turn a noticeable yellow. In addition all courses will begin spraying a pre-emergent to control winter weeds.
Though it is a slow process to watch, the North project remains on schedule for an October reopening. The greens are continuing their fertilization program and are responding as expected. Greens are currently being walk mowed three times per week. In addition to mowing the greens are top dressed with USGA greens mix each Friday. Some areas that are not responding to sprigging will be sodded the week of August 25th. Fairway lines were painted out in August and are now mown to their new layouts. On August 28th the AGA will be on site to give the North course its new rating. In addition to North they will also be rating Quail Run.
As a reminder, Riverview will not be overseeded this year. We are currently considering the feasibility of leaving 9 holes open in December, while the front 9 is in the first part of construction. Since the course will not be overseeded, the feasibility greatly relies on our ability to control the green speed. We will post more definitive information in the near future.