Ice Borer's Release Will Speed Opening; Play Expected By April 21

Northland has received its first ever shipment of Hotheaded Ice Borers and will release the small organisms on the course Tuesday morning. The small species (shown enlarged in the photo at the right) was discovered in Antarctica in 1995 and was the subject of an article written by Tim Folger in the April issue of Discover Magazine .
Since their discovery, these bizarre looking creatures have become extremely popular at golf courses in northern climates interested in removing snow and ice from the course to speed up early Spring openings. While small and light, each borer has a bony plate attached to their head that can become burning hot, allowing them to bore tunnels through ice and snow at high speeds.
According to Dr. Aprile Pazzo, a wildlife biologist who discovered the ice borers, the small creatures "travel through the ice and snow at surprisingly high speeds. They have a very high metabolic rate - their body temperature is 110 degrees - and they live in labyrinthine tunnels carved in ice." Pazzo added that the bony plate in the creature's forehead is filled with "innumerable blood vessels that radiate tremendous amounts of body heat through their hot plates which they then use to melt their tunnels in ice."
This will be Northland's first experiment with the ice borer. In previous years, there was less snow and ice on the golf course at this time, which allowed for an early opening. This year's prolonged cold spell has left many fairways with snow depths in the 10-12 inch range.
Once the ice borers have completed their task, most will bury deep beneath the soil surface and enter a state of hibernation until next winter. However, other courses that have used the ice borer report a high mortality rate - often near 95 percent - which has forced them to repurchase new stocks in they wish to continue the Spring snow and ice removal.
A case lot of ice borers - 1,000 to a case - costs approximately $275. Just a single case was ordered this season to begin experimenting to determine what impact they could have on the lingering ice and snow. If they perform as expected, Northland should be open on Monday, April 21 for the season.

April Family Style Features

Here's the listing of features for Tuesday Family Style dinners at Northland for the month of April. The month begins with what has proven to be the most popular of the entrees so far - Chicken & Ribs. While not required, reservations are appreciated. Service begins at 5:00. Click the image below to view it full screen. See below for menu additions.
Along with the Chicken & Ribs being served on Tuesday, service will include Northland Coleslaw, Sweet Corn on the Cob, Baked Beans and Jo-Jo Potatoes.

Still Some Openings In Ross Event

Northland members who are also members of the Donald Ross Society are reminded there is still some some room for participants in the group's Annual Meeting to be held May 1-3 in Wilmington, NC. Part of the play will be at the historic Cape Fear Country Club.
Complete details of the event are available here and you can learn more about the Ross Society at www.donaldrosssociety.org ....you can also email your request for more information to Executive Director Mike Fay at fay.m@comcast.net.

Superintendent Explains New Tree Removal

Northland Superintendent Chris Tritabaugh has posted a fairly long story on his blog site about the tree removal on the course the past two days. You can read the entire story here.
Chris has posted several before and after photos - including the after photo above taken behind the 3rd green - and offers a detailed explanation about why certain trees have been removed from the golf course before the start of play this year.

Northland Co-Sponsors DAI Fundraiser

Northland Country Club is co-sponsoring "Art Awakening" - the annual fundraiser for the Duluth Art Institute; the event will be held at the club on Saturday, March 29 beginning at 5:30pm.
Over 50 area artists have contributed their fine art and craft. Money raised at the event will support DAI programs and activities.
A silent auction will begin at 5:30 along with a sponsored social hour, and will be followed by a live auction of the art along with a choice selection of "awakening"packages.
The mission of the Duluth Art Institute is to enrich daily life with dynamic and innovative arts programming that upholds excellence and promotes active community participation.
The organization is now in its 101st year.
If you're interested in attending, please call 733.7560 for reservations. Tickets are limited and cost just $75.00.

Improvement For Dining / Lounge Tables

You may have noticed that the dining tables in the Fireside Room and the Link Lounge have a new look. All tables are being repaired and given a fresh new appearance. Crews with Better World Builders of Duluth were hired to perform the work. They expect to have all tables finished by early next week.

Advance Preview - The Woman Today

30,000 copies of the April/May issue of The Woman Today will hit the newsstands on Thursday of this week. Included in this issue is a large six-page story about Northland. We're giving you this sneak preview, knowing you'll also want to pick up a copy to have for yourself - and maybe a few extra for family members not living in the area. Just click each image to view them full screen. Here's a link to The Woman Today website where you can also direct friends who want to read the article. As of this posting, the new issue has still not been uploaded to the site.

WGA - Evans Scholarship Foundation Thanks Northland For Support; 29 Past/Current Scholars

Northland Country Club President Cameron Fryer recently received the following letter from the Western Golf Association and the Evans Scholars Foundation. The letter is a reminder that members will once again be contributing to the program in coming weeks.

The Western Golf Association on behalf of the Evans Scholars Foundation acknowledges with gratitude the contribution of $5,675 for 2007 from the members of Northland Country Club participating in the Evans Bag Tag Program.
The Evans Scholarship program is in its seventh decade, and is the largest scholarship program in sports. More than 8,590 young men and women have earned college degrees through the generosity of American golfers. Your contribution will help the 835 Evans Scholars who are attending 14 universities today.
By your support, you are making an investment in the future of our game and our youth. The success of the Evans Scholars program would not be possible without the financial aid of interested club members who think that young people and caddying still have a place in the game of golf.
Please convey our appreciation to your Board of Directors and your membership. Also, please accept the thanks of the thousands of Evans Scholars who benefited from your generosity in the past and those who will in the future.

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Northland Country Club has had 29 young men and women participate in the Evans Scholar program dating back to 1961 when Karl Pfitzer was awaded a scholarship to attend the University of Minnesota. Dr. Pfitzer recently retired as a Senior Technical Fellow with Boeing.
The most recent college graduate was Tom Lilliberg in 2007 with a Major in Bio-Based Products Marketing & Management.
Northland currently has two former employees attending the University of Minnesota: Benjamin Johnson will graduate this year with a Major in Kinesiology; Andrew Ahlfield is scheduled to graduate in 2001 with a Major in Mechanical Engineering.

Welcome New Members

Northland Country Club welcomes the following new members:
Scott & Diane Lundgren (Resident Golf); Philip & Linda Wagner (Pool/Tennis); Todd & Terry Bolin (Non-Resident Golf).
Northland would also like to recognize the upgrades in membership for the following members: Jennifer Allan & Mike Stowman (Pool/Tennis); Gene Wolfe (Resident Golf); Christopher & Amy Carlson (Resident Golf).

Easter Brunch - Still Some Openings

If you haven't taken the time yet, there's still an opportunity to reserve a table for the Easter Brunch this Sunday at Northland.
Please scroll down this screen to review the menus for the two seatings - the first seating will begin at 11am with the second seating at 1:00.
This is always one of the more popular holiday buffets at Northland and many families have already confirmed their reservations.

Tax Relief Wine Tasting

Here's a chance to unwind and to celebrate the tax season - A Tax Relief Wine Tasting will be held April 16 at Northland.
Members will have an opportunity to taste, rate and enjoy 50 different wines. Representatives of six wine companies will be on hand to guide you through outstanding selections from around the world - including new regions and varietals.
Executive Chef Mike Schueller will provide a wonderful array of hors d'oeuvres to complement the wines.
At the conclusion of the event, say good-bye to the tax season with a spirited champagne toast.
Cost for this event is just $18 per person. The wine tasting will begin at 6pm.
Reservations are requested - please confirm your attendance by calling the office today.

It's Spring!!! Happy Hour At 4:30 Today

On the menu tonight:

Chicken Wings - Three Styles
Northland Rings
Crab Cakes w/ Mango-Papaya Salsa

Superintendent Comments On Course Changes Using Aerial Photographs Dating To 1948

It wasn't all that long ago that this site posted some aerial images of the golf course that were taken during a span stretching from 1948 to 2004 - images from those two years that we've re-posted above. Now, Superintendent Chris Tratabaugh has taken a moment to comment on some the course changes he has noticed while more closely studying the images, which also include those taken in 1961, 1972 and 1981. Chris has recently posted those comments on his blog site, Northland Grounds. Read the whole article here.

Chris has also taken a moment to update on the course condition as we come into another season. Generally, he indicates the course looks very good.
Chris has used a couple of photos taken on the 14th green to illustrate part of his comments about how the course has wintered.
He also offers his comments on possible course opening....don't get too excited, yet.
To read the whole article and others he has recently posted, just click here.

Thanks, Chris, for keeping us updated on what you're seeing on the golf course.

Tuesday Means Family Night At Northland

The fun begins at 5:00 tonight as Chef Schueller and staff present Oriental Family Style dining. Four dishes are on the menu tonight. Reservations are generally not needed, but are always appreciated.

Super Seniors In Invitational?

Some consideration is being given to adding a Super Senior Division in the Northland Invitational. What do you think? Would the new division increase participation in the annual event?
The discussion thus far has centered on adding the division for those members and guests age 70 and older. Among the issues undetermined are the number of days the division would play and whether the matches would be 9-holes or 18 holes. Do you have some suggestions?
Use the comment section to add your thoughts, and take the Quick Poll posted on the right hand side of the page beneath the ForeTees logo to let us know whether you think a division should be added.

Congratulations: Gary Schneider Begins 6th Year As Northland Club Manager

Gary Schneider began his sixth year as Northland's Club Manager today. On Friday of last week, staff members helped Gary celebrate five years at the helm.

"I'm so proud of the accomplishments we've made in the past five years," said Schneider this morning. "I really had no idea this was going to be so much fun. I am absolutely delighted and hope to be at Northland for a long, long time."

When asked what the best part of the Northland experience has been, Schneider's response was quick in coming. "It's the members. They have all been so kind and appreciative of the efforts we've made to improve their overall experience. I love the fact they want to be so involved in the club and the activities we host."
Schneider says he especially appreciates the many comments he receives about the management staff he's assembled. "I really believe in the people who work hard each day to make certain our members have the quality experience they deserve," he said.

Schneider came to Northland five years ago from Naples, FL where he had owned his own restaurant. Congratulations to Gary for five great years.

Time To Review Your Membership Directory Entry - ENewsletter In Development

Northland is continually updating the Membership Directory and it's that time of the year to review your entry. We are just days away from updating the online version and are requesting your assistance to make certain we have your details correct.
Please take a moment to review your entry either by reviewing the printed booklet, or sign on to the member's only portion of the website and review your current listing. If you need assistance with the online viewing, please contact Membership Director Ann Robertson. You can click Ann's name on the right side of the page to email her or call her at the office.

As Ann recently reported in a mailing to the general membership, Northland is in the process of developing an electronic newsletter in an effort to more effectively communicate to members. The new email version would allow for more frequent communication at a significant cost savings.
Are you currently getting news alerts from Northland? If you've not yet signed up for the automatic alerts, please contact Ann and she'll add you to the list.

New Domain For Blog Site

We've changed the official domain site of the Northland blog. From now on the site will be accessed by going to www.NCCBlogsite.com.
You won't notice any change. If you attempt to access through the former blogspot address, you'll automatically be directed to the new site address.

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day Early

Northland's Irish inspired menu will be available for dining tonight.
Executive Chef Mike Schueller and the culinary crew will be featuring Corned Beef & Cabbage along with Jameson Irish Whiskey Bread Pudding. It's generally advisable to make dinner reservations. Call 525.1941.

On St. Patrick's Day (Monday), there will be a more extensive menu of Irish favorites, including the Corned Beef/Cabbage along with Lamb Stew, Brown Soda Bread and more. The favorites will be available for both lunch and dinner on Monday.

Easter Brunch Menu - NOTE UPDATE

Here is the menu for the Easter Brunch at Northland. Just click the images to view them full screen. There are two seatings - 11am and 1pm. This is always one of the more popular holiday brunches at Northland, so make your reservation today by calling the office at 525.1941.
UPDATE: You can also email Jen Kolenda or Ann Robertson....just click their names at the top right hand side of the page to send them a message.

Reserve Today For Easter Sunday

Executive Chef Mike Schueller has put together a fabulous menu for the Northland Easter Buffet. This is always one of the more popular events at Northland. Don't delay, make your reservation today for one of the two seatings. Call the office at 525.1941.

Family Night - Swiss Steak

Last week's Family Style menu drew one of the largest groups of members and guests since the increasingly popular Tuesday night event was started. This week's menu should also prove to be very popular.
Reservations are not required, but always encouraged. Family Style dining begins at 5:00 and is just $15 for adults and only $5 for children under age 10. There is no charge for children under age 5.

What Was This Person Thinking?

Did you read Superintendent Chris Tritabaugh's latest posting on the Northland Grounds Blog?
It's all about divots. Obviously, if the divots above were made by the same person during a practice session, he/she might want to read what Chris has to say. Read the whole article here.

Northland Holds Classic Ranking

The March 8 issue of Golfweek is out with its rankings of the best golf courses in the United States - Northland Country Club is once again rated in the Top 100 of Classic Courses. (Click the magazine name above or the cover image to go to the magazine's website.)
Northland is tied for 85th on the list, with a rating average of 6.79. The list of classic courses is comprised of those courses built before 1960.
According to Golfweek, the 450 members of its rating panel used a set of 10 criteria to rate the golf courses they played. On the list: ease and intimacy of routing, integrity of original design, quality of feature shaping, natural setting and overall land plan, interest of greens and surrounding contours, variety and memorability of par 3s, variety and memorability of par 4s, variety and memorability of par 5s, basic quality of conditioning, landscape and tree management, and "walk in the park" test.

The magazine also provides a listing of course architects. Topping the list was Donald Ross, Northland's designer, who has 26 courses on the listing of America's best, six more than second place finisher Tom Fazio. The highest rated Ross course on the 2008 list is Pinehurst #2 which is listed as the 11th best in the country.
You can review the entire list of classic courses rated in 2007 here. The magazine has not yet posted the 2008 listing on its website.
Cyprus Point tops the magazine's list of Classic Courses while Nebraska's Sand Hills Golf Club heads the list of Modern golf courses.
Golfweek also lists the top courses in all 50 states. The top rated course in Minnesota is The Quarry at Giant's Ridge. It's followed by Deacon's Lodge in Brainerd and The Wilderness at Fortune Bay in Tower.
You can always click the link for Golfweek under "Links" on the right hand side of the blog to review current stories and ratings.

Chef Schueller Featured At Spring Brunch

Northland Executive Chef Mike Schueller is one of the featured chef's at this year's Arrowhead Professional Chef's Association Spring Brunch. The brunch honors the memory of Chef Al Dumancas and features many of the area's finest culinarians.
The event will be held March 30 at the DECC. There are four seating times: 10:30, 11:00, 11:30 and Noon. Tickets are just $25 for adults and $12.50 for children. A portion of the proceeds will go to benefit local food banks.
If you're interested in attending, you can purchase tickets at the Northland office.
You can learn more about the Arrowhead Chef's Association here. There's also a link from the site for registration....just click here to pre-register.

Happy Hour Specials

Happy Hour begins shortly....

On the menu starting at 4:30:

Chicken Wings - Three Choices
Northland Rings
Salmon Carpaccio

Don't forget their are also specials on taps, wine and other drinks.

New Furniture, New Dance Floor - Possible Table Improvement Plan In Works

If you've been to Northland recently, you'll notice that the plush leather sofas that used to surround the fireplace in the member's dining area have been relocated to the main foyer on the banquet floor. This improves the decor of the main floor and will allow for new high back chairs to replace the sofas by the fireplace. The new chairs should be in place by the end of the month.

You may not notice a change in the dance floor in the banquet center, but a new floor will be in place as early as tomorrow. The floor - seen at the right during a recent fashion show in one of its many possible configurations - had experienced some warping. The floor's manufacturer indicated the problem was the result of a production flaw and the floor will be replaced at no additional charge.

Northland has also received a very favorable bid to improve the condition of some of the dining tables on the member's floor. The work would involve re-staining and repair to any damage that exists. A decision to proceed is expected shortly.

Member News: Marti's Magazine - 2nd Issue

We announced the news that it would be published...have you seen one of the first two issues?
Duluth Superior Magazine is on the news stands and in mail boxes with its second issue. Northland member and publisher Marti Buscaglia says she's quite pleased with the early results. Reviews have been very favorable and advertising support is increasing. The magazine's website is still being completed, but should be fully operational by the end of March. You can click here to see the site and complete subscription information.

LeClair Will Return; Woman Today Prepares New Article About Northland

Sarah LeClair, Assistant Pro at Northland, will be returning for another season. In case you missed the article below in The Woman Today this past fall, we're posting here for you. Just click each image to read the article full screen.The Woman Today has prepared yet another article about Northland. The final editing was completed this week. We'll make certain to post it on the blog for those of you who may not be able to see a copy of the magazine. To check for yourself, you can click here to go to their website home page.

March Family Style Features Theme Dining

Here are the featured entrees for Family Style dining at Northland for March. Remember to just click the image above to view it full screen.