The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) has named Branden Tanko of Stevens Point, Wis., as the recipient of the second annual Joseph S. Garske Collegiate Grant.

The $2,500 grant, funded by Par Aide and administered through The Environmental Institute for Golf, was established in 2003 in honor of Par Aide company founder Joseph S. Garske. The program provides annual awards to assist children of GCSAA members in funding their education at accredited colleges or trade schools. The grant is renewable for a second year with proof of enrollment and a GPA of 2.0 or higher.

"We believe it’s important to recognize golf course superintendents for their tireless dedication to the game of golf," said Steve Garske, Par Aide president. "It's great to be able to give something back to superintendents and their children."

Tanko will attend Minnesota State University-Mankato next fall to study aviation. His father, Gary S. Tanko, CGCS at Sentryworld Golf Course in Stevens Point, Wis., is an 18-year GCSAA member.

"A bachelor’s degree in professional flight from Mankato University will maximize my chances for success in any and all fields of aviation,” Tanko said. “I view my accomplishments and experiences thus far as the tip of the iceberg to what I can achieve, and I feel a degree in professional flight will get me one step closer to realizing my full potential."

Last year’s winner, Katelyn Ritter, will begin her second year at Penn State University this fall, where she is studying to become an architectural engineer. Her father, Thomas J. Ritter, CGCS at Hampshire Greens Golf Course in Silver Springs, Md., is a 16-year GCSAA member.

"We appreciate the continued support of Par Aide," said GCSAA President Timothy T. O’Neill, CGCS. "It represents a strong commitment to the profession, the industry and the game."

Since 1954, Par Aide has been providing superior golf course accessories "Wherever Golf is Played." The family-owned company offers a full line of premium golf course accessories, including tee, green and practice area products, tools, and signage. Headquartered in Lino Lakes , Minn. , Par Aide distributes products to golf courses through a worldwide network of dealers. For more information, visit www.paraide.com.

The Environmental Institute for Golf, the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), is a collaborative effort of the environmental and golf communities, dedicated to strengthening the compatibility of golf with the natural environment. The Institute concentrates on delivering programs and services involving information collection, research, education and outreach that communicate the best management practices of environmental stewardship on the golf course. For more on The Institute, visit www.eifg.org.

Since 1926, GCSAA has been the leading professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the United States and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to more than 21,000 individual members in more than 72 countries. GCSAA's mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org.

For more information contact:
Amanda Howard, GCSAA employment administrator, at (800) 472-7878, ext. 4424