New Bocce Scoreboard Covers Installed

Mark Medalie and Dick Hultquist assist with the installation of two new covers for the bocce court scoreboards

What Is A Stimpmeter Reading?

The Stimpmeter is a simple, accurate device manufactured by the USGA (United States Golf Association) that allows one to make a standard measurement of -- and place a numerical figure on -- the speed of a putting green. It has proven to be an invaluable asset to the game of golf and a helpful   management tool for the golf course superintendent.                                                                       

 The Stimpmeter is an extruded aluminum bar, 36 inches long, with a V-shaped groove extending along its entire length. It has a precisely milled ball-release notch 30" from the tapered end (the end that rests on the ground). The underside of the tapered end is milled away to reduce bounce as a rolling ball makes contact with the green.

The ball-release notch is designed so that a ball will always be released and start to roll when the Stimpmeter is raised to an angle of approximately 20 degrees. This feature ensures that the velocity of the ball will always be the same when it reaches the tapered end.

The ball is put the in the notch and the bar is slowly raised until the ball starts to roll down the groove.

Repeat the same procedure with two more balls, keeping the tapered end on the same spot. After three balls have been rolled, the process is repeated in the opposite direction.  This is done in case there is any slope in the green that may affect the results.

The distance the six balls (Three in each direction) roll from the Stimpmeter is measured. An average of all six is calculated and this distance is called the "Stimpmeter reading".  Stimpmeter readings are always given in feet and inches.

Algae Attack!

The call went out. The volunteers gathered in preparation, weapons by their sides. The attack began at dawn. Needless to say, the algae was caught completely off guard and never stood a chance. Thanks to all those dedicated volunteers who came out at the break of dawn to remove algae from the lakes. Because these volunteers were able to rid the lakes of all the algae without the use of chemicals, they were able to help The Villages save money, as well as help the environment. 

Golf Course Maintenance employee Jorge, in the hip waders, assisting in the gathering of algae that is out of reach of the volunteers.

Richard Warren and Don Roberts by the 18th tee

Hugh Fahrner encouraging the troops, including: Gary Sharps, Richard Warren, George Southland, Claude Bramwell, and Dick Fisher.