As true as the holiday season arrives, so does the chapter annual meeting season and education sessions across the Central Plains.

Recently, Senior Director of Member Programs Shelia Finney and I joined the Nebraska GCSA for their annual meeting in Grand Island, Nebr. Class A member Nate Pehrson of Riverside CC served as the host for the event.

Education and information included an update on GCSAA services and future programs.  Bill Kreuser of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln updated us on happenings in turf science at the university before lunch and the annual meeting.

The highlight of the event was recognition for two members who have provided outstanding service to the chapter, the state and nationally.
Earning Superintendent of the Year honors was Kyle Hegland of Sand Hills GC in Mullen, Nebr.  Kyle also serves as a GCSAA Grassroots Ambassador.  Knowing Kyle for years, he brings hard work, enthusiasm and integrity to the position.  Kyle has worked hard developing assistant superintendents who have gone on to do great work and advance their profession. Kyle has learned from great mentors – from Austin Country Club in Texas, to local superintendents in Nebraska, Kyle represents his state and the industry with professionalism.  A well-deserved honor.

Earning the NGCSA Distinguished Service Award was Bill Bieck of Heritage Hills GC in McCook, Nebr.  Bill has been a tireless worker with the chapter and GCSAA. Bill has served on numerous committees and task groups and as a Grassroots Ambassador.

Bill will be “sort of” retiring in early 2018.  He will still be working at his facility and still involved in various activities.  One of Bill’s efforts is the development of a Best Management Practices plan and manual for the state.  Bill is leading the charge within the task group and has been very influential in the progress and advancement of Nebraska’s BMPs.

Ryan Krings will continue as President of the NGCSA in 2018.  Ryan has been an influential leader to move the chapter forward with various initiatives.  We look forward

to revising the chapter’s strategic plan in the coming months. 

Annual meeting and education season is upon us.  And to everyone, “Season’s Greetings!”