It appears that Spring has finally arrived, and in typical Indiana fashion we have had a slow start, but now it looks like things are about to bust loose.  Now, everyone just has to try and just keep up. So many things to get done and not enough time in the day to accomplish it all.

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as your 2023 MRTF president.  Like many of us, we started in the turf industry at an early age.  I began my career as a teenager on the eastside of Indianapolis. I went to Purdue and graduated under the direction of Dr. Throssell.  After a few stops, I landed at The Country Club of Terre Haute where I have been the golf course superintendent for twenty-three years.

Through my time as a turfgrass professional, the MRTF has provided educational and networking opportunities that have allowed me to do my job better.  So, when I was asked to serve on the board I did not hesitate because this was now my chance to give back to the industry that has been so good to me.  Becoming president of the MRTF is a huge highlight of my career.  Our industry is full of amazing professionals and it’s truly an honor to serve this Foundation.

Finally, I would like to briefly mention the newest MRTF endowment.  We are embarking on a fundraising effort to expand the facilities at the William H. Daniel diagnostic center at Purdue University.  I believe we are off to a great start.  We have had a wonderful response to the new sustaining member category during the membership renewals this year.  We are also seeing some interest in the Chip-in program.  If you haven’t heard of these efforts, and would like to know more, please visit our website: www.MRTF.org. Furthermore, I would like to send out a big thanks to all our members for their continued support of this foundation. It is going to be a great year!

Respectfully,

Brad Pugh, CGCS

MRTF President