Comments

that stinks wrote on Nov 27, 2009 11:19 PM:

" I just found out today while eating lunch at the g.c. that the city council gave Burt an extension for 3 months on his contract. Thats ashame that the council didn't just renew it for a few years. You really don't know what you will be loosing if you let Burt go, do you? This man has proven himself for years that he is NOT the reason for the deficit you so boldly talk about Mayor Green. Do your homework for once, Burts position is NOT responsible and neither is Burt. Why can we all see that and you don't? "




confused wrote on Nov 20, 2009 8:05 AM:

" I really don't know how all of this contract stuff works but I recently heard that the city offered Burt a 3 month extension on the current contract. My question is, if COUNCIL agreed to extend the contract for 3 months (which I'm assuming COUNCIL made the right decission), why wouldn't they still feel it would be the right decission for another other 21 months? Looks to me like Burt could handle 21 more months, after all he has done a great job for 28...YEARS...(which I'm assuming you AGREED/VOTED he was the right decission for all those years....correct)? Whats....ur....reason...?....what...did..Burt...do...exactly...to...change...your...view..about...his...capibilities...and...qualifications?....I'm...confused...maybe...you...can...help....me...and...others...understand...where...the....change...happened...and...what...the...change..was...exactly?....To...go..to...all..this...trouble?...Does..the..city..want...him..out..that..bad?...Seems...like..Burt's...getting...the...short...end...of...the...stick...?...Maybe..ur...answers..will..help...me...understand...more...clearly......!!!Thanks. "




Give it a try wrote on Nov 20, 2009 4:06 AM:

" I agree put the management 100% under Burt for one year on his next contract. What ever he does not come flush on he reimburses the City for that deficit if it is a profit over operation costs he keeps it. This will releave the City of $400K a year. You go Burt! make it right but if you can't at least the city will get reimbursed. "




Hey Chef wrote on Nov 20, 2009 12:44 AM:

" Glad to see you corrected yourself from comment 1 to 2. Yes, that is the only areas that Burt oversees and as for the "course", maybe you need to ask the council board on Monday at 7pm. Over the last 28yrs of Burts service there has been changes, improvements, more tournaments,weddings and holiday functions. Burt has done a wonderful job in all those areas, why is he being blamed for a deficit that is not under his control. Is the city ashamed by not taking responsibility, i wonder. Just imagine how Burt must feel....shocked I'm sure. Who wouldn't be!!! "




Chef Bernie wrote on Nov 16, 2009 12:05 PM:

" So does Burt only manage the Driving range, Bar and Restraunt? What about the rest of the Course, who manages it and looks at the books and makes changes to insure it is being ran right. I don't know how it all works out at the course. I'm sure that Burt does a great job. Sounds like maybe the way it is all set up and ran needs to be changed. "




new to the valley wrote on Nov 14, 2009 10:11 PM:

" Have to agree with Chef Bernie. Last I checked it is a business, and a business that could use more approachable management. Seriously! "




goodluckpro wrote on Nov 14, 2009 7:39 AM:

" I recently heard that the city has given Mr. Watkins a 3 month extenstion on his contract, I was wondering if this true...why didn't they just extend it for 2 more years (like it has always been)? After all the support and "eye openers" for the council members, one would tend to believe that "it was possible to extend A CONTRACT", so why the NEED to publish proposals??? Please do us all a "good deed" for ONCE and renew the contract and go out of office on at least 1 good note Mayor Green...... "




Do this Math wrote on Nov 13, 2009 11:38 PM:

" Just to inform you of something you have A..not been aware of OR 2..didn't do your own homework...This debt that you are referring to and why Burt hasn't broke even or profited towards this debt...well, thats because his responsibility's of balancing ANY books, would be only his own...which is driving range, bar and restaraunt ONLY!!! Yeah, theres a deficit but that number did NOT come from any doings of Burt Watkins. He has done a REMARKABLE JOB for 28yrs....and deserves to stay. Burt there are ALOT of people behind you...hang in there...we are fighting for you too!!! "




Really no smiles wrote on Nov 12, 2009 10:30 PM:

" Hey Azgirl, when is the last time you been out to the G.C. cuz actually over the last year or so, I can be a witness to ALOT of GREAT service and SMILES!!! Who ever change the "tattoo, peirced, negative additude and all the frowns" of the prior employees that USED to work there...BIG IMPROVMENT and GREAT DECISSION!!!! I'm out there at least twice a week and have seen a huge difference!! Great food, great service, great atmosphere!!! Maybe you should try another visit, I think you would be quite impressed!!!! "




Chef Bernie wrote on Nov 12, 2009 5:49 PM:

" I find the support for Burt Watkins great. But if he has managed the course for 28 years and couldn't find a way to make it break even or at least close to even, then maybe a change would be good. If the Golf course's exspenses are $750,000 and it brings in $350,000. It's not hard to do the math and realize that something has to change. If any other business was ran like this it would not last long. "




AZGirl wrote on Nov 12, 2009 4:31 AM:

" If this Burt character loses his job, will they get new bar tenders? Cause they could use some smiling faces and better service in there. "




changing my view wrote on Nov 11, 2009 7:51 AM:

" Wow, what a great amount of support showed at that meeting for Mr. Watkins. I hope it made a difference to the councilman like it did to the people sitting infront of them. Mr. Kincaid, in my opinion, seemed to be having difficulty answering some of the questions that were asked to him. In fact, I went to that meeting with an open-mind and on an even scale, but after watching Mr. Kincaid stumble and studder over every question, I have since changed my veiw. Mr. Kincaid seemed nervous and somewhat paranoid of telling us the truth of things. Why????? "




Touched wrote on Nov 10, 2009 1:09 AM:

" In response to the comment made by Debra Watkins, I would like to say that I was extremely touched by your love and support you hold for your father. How lucky he is to have such a wonderful daughter and what a beautiful job he did raising you. I don't know you or your dad, but I can say that if this is the kind of people out at the golf course, I think I'll take up the game of golf!!!! This community could use more caring people (like yourself). I wish your dad the best of luck! Mrs. Bryce "




attendee wrote on Nov 10, 2009 12:31 AM:

" I attended the council meeting tonight and was amazed. The number of people that came in support of Burt was outstanding!! In fact, it could of possibly been in the "top ten" ranking for the most residents to attend a council meeting, I've been to many and have never seen so much support. I wish others in the community were as involved and supportive on other community issues as they were tonite for "saving thier golf pro" . We could possibly have a stronger community with more awareness,less accusations and the knowledge to provide better decission making. Respectively Yours....... "




Voter wrote on Nov 9, 2009 5:28 PM:

" You still lost my vote! "




Im a Green wrote on Nov 9, 2009 12:08 PM:

" I am Green and sorry to say but I don't have a cousin or brother or even a close family friend who has either recently attended PGA school or graduated from PGA school. Sorry to ruin your untrue rumor. I don’t know where this was started nor do I care, but it is not true. "




Mollybee wrote on Nov 9, 2009 11:47 AM:

" Maybe someone higher than Ron Green needs to know what an un-ethical mess this has become? "




Mollybee wrote on Nov 9, 2009 11:45 AM:

" Anyone that knows Burt Watkins knows that he is honest, hardworking and most of all caring. The golf course and this community is his passion. He continues to support every charity, every business and every citizen around. Let us all show our support!! "




My comment cont again wrote on Nov 9, 2009 6:51 AM:

" I urge you to read the "book". By choosing to do so, you might find yourself with a different view, in fact the possibility of finding out that what you have convinced yourself of believing over the past 28yrs will suddenly change your prospective. I can say that I read it and to date it is my most valuable NOVEL. GOOD LUCK DAD!!! I LOVE YOU......Your loving and SUPPORTIVE daughter, Debra Dee Watkins "




My comment continued wrote on Nov 9, 2009 6:41 AM:

" His outside shell is purely for protection only, not to be taken as hard, cold or arrogant as many believe. As many of us, Burt has overcome mulitiple hardships in his life. Growing up in poverty, losing parents and siblings at a young age and even taking on a paper route at the age of 5..yes, 5yrs old to help provide for his family are just some of the things that have contribruted to this "shell" that I am talking about. Most, only consider looking at "the moment" instead of "the story". So, instead of judging the cover..... "




my comment wrote on Nov 9, 2009 6:24 AM:

" All I really want to say is that being a part of golf my entire life, it amazes me that people can be so easy to judge. There is NOT another individual that knows Mr. Burt Watkins as well as myself. Before he had 28yrs on the job, before he had 12yrs owning/operating the Benson course, before he became known as a respected PGA Pro, Burt was (still is) a man of honesty and pride. A true family man with strong beliefs and high morals. To some, he might seem like a solitaire man but I can tell you different............ "




also a Pro wrote on Nov 7, 2009 10:14 PM:

" I have also known Burt Watkins for years and would agree with the previous PGA Pro. Burt is truly a master of the game, highly respected member of the PGA and how honored I am, (as many Pro's are) to have him as our friend. My only regret thus far, is not knowing about this meeting sooner. I would have arranged for myself along with multiple PGA Pro's to enlighten you and your community about Burt. I wish Burt all the luck in the world and to the members of this course, keeping Burt would be very smart. "




From another PGA pro wrote on Nov 7, 2009 7:45 AM:

" I am also a PGA Pro and have known Burt for years. During this time I have been honored to have such an individual as him be a part of our PGA family. Burt is probably the most educated Pro in Az. that I know. The knowledge that he has shared with fellow Professionals has been mind blowing at times. To most of you he may not come across as much, but as a fellow Pro, I can honestly say that in the golf industry he is a true asset. TO: Mt. Graham G.C.....I hope you keep him around. "




dont forget wrote on Nov 7, 2009 7:21 AM:

" Support Burt by coming to the meeting that will be held at the Safford library on Nov. 9th at 7pm. Bring your family and friends to help us save our Pro. We need him and WANT him to stay. We need answers on why this has even happened the way that it has because to the majority of us golfers and local partrons that have enjoyed Burt and the golf course for all these years, to us this seems VERY unfair and VERY unnessacary!!! I also say...KEEP BURT!!!! If you agree please come to the meeting!!!! "




Tymac wrote on Nov 6, 2009 3:54 PM:

" Bert sometimes acts like a grumpy uncle, but he is a genuine personality - not much for show, but a good nuts and bolts guy who is good for the golf course. Most of any problems that can be associated with the course are beyond his control. I say keep Bert ! "




reminder wrote on Nov 6, 2009 8:38 AM:

" REMINDER.....IF YOU WANT TO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL GOLF COURSE AND MR. BURT WATKINS...MEETING AT THE SAFFORD LIBRARY IS.......................MONDAY AT 7:00PM!!! SAVE OUR PRO, SAVE OUR GOLF COURSE FROM OUTSIDE COMPANIES THAT MERELY ARE IN THIS ONLY TO PROFIT FOR THEMSELVES....!!! BURT DOESN'T DESERVE TO BE REPLACED, ITS JUST NOT FAIR THE WAY THIS HAS ALL TAKEN PLACE....IF IT WAS, WHY IS THIS THE FIRST TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED IN ALMOST 30 YEARS...THINK ABOUT IT!!!! COME AND SHOW YOUR SUPPORT TO MR. WATKINS!!!!!!!!!!!!! WHATS REALLY GOING ON BEHIND CLOSED DOORS????? WHO IS REALLY BEHIND THIS PROCESS?? AND WHY???? MAKES ONE WONDER???? "




ummmm wrote on Nov 6, 2009 7:44 AM:

" Rude and Miserable??? Why cause your team didn't win. You say a that there has only been a few several tournaments that hasn't gone perfectly. Do you have any idea how many tournaments have been held in 28yrs. and were you apart of all of them...I doubt it. I think 95% out of 100% of the tournaments probably ran smoothly, not to shabby Burt!!! Modern changes might be good but removing our Pro will effect the course..hands down. 95% out of 100% of the winter visitor have already stated that they will LEAVE!!! Financially this will HURT the course..... "




are you serious wrote on Nov 6, 2009 7:23 AM:

" During ALOT of events held in this town I have seen or been a part of, people not being completly happy with how things when operated or handled...you can't please everyone in every event held in Safford. So, yeah maybe there were some tournaments held that someone got butt hurt. Do you think that by having a big company come in and when another event is held (by them) that it simply won't happen again...RIGHT. As far as I see (reality speaking), "UPSETS" will most likely happen again with or without CHANGE. Look what happen when we last voted??????? "




why wrote on Nov 6, 2009 7:10 AM:

" What does the greens sup budget have to do with Burt Watkins?? The City gives the greens sup a budget every year to use towards maintance, upgrades and modifcations and ect right??? Well, why does the greens sup give back monies to the City of Safford (from the budget) instead of using it to improve the conditions of the course? Don't complain about the shape of the golf course when there is money readily available for useage but giving it back instead of making the improvements on the G.C., seems to be a better thing to do. "




why wrote on Nov 5, 2009 11:25 PM:

" I don't agree. I think it is not "unheard of" for someone with his knowledge, experience and qualifications to operate a golf course for 28yrs. Why would the city keep him as an employee for this amount of time if he wasn't doing a good job and EARNING his pay. Any public event such as tournaments there will be some small issues, no one can possibly make everyone happy. It happens with our parades, fairs, holiday events, salsa fest, concerts, football games, everything all the time. But do you see all of those coaches,directors,announcers,event cordinators getting fired....no...so why fire Burt. "




takethetime wrote on Nov 5, 2009 11:13 PM:

" There is only one Burt Watkins and maybe if you took the time to actually get to know him you would agree with the 90% of the rest of us that do know him. Maybe you would realize that this gentleman is a very caring person who has given ALOT to this valley and the people who reside here. The winter visitors only stay for a few months out of the year and they know Burt quite well and would probably agree that is a good person, honest, giving and down right GOOD Pro and friend. In my opinion. "




Overrated wrote on Nov 5, 2009 10:03 PM:

" I like to golf at Mt. Graham, but Burt has made several golfing outings miserable in the last few years. He is rude and doesn't offer much help. It seems he's preoccupied with looking after his "buddies". I do appreciate his dedication to those in his broad circle, but there isn't any harm in making him continue to EARN his job and pay. Everyone needs to have their position/contract reviewed, which is standard in 95% of all jobs these days. Good Luck Burt, but I'll be rooting from some modern change. "




not again wrote on Nov 5, 2009 7:03 PM:

" The members of Mt. Graham GC have become complacent, conceded and scared of change. I refuse to play the course, and instead take my money to another course that is in playable condition. I'm not blaming the Green sup. because of tied hands, you can only do so much with a small budget. Maybe a change will be a good thing. Running the same golf course for 28 years is unheard of. "




golfer also wrote on Nov 5, 2009 3:57 PM:

" really people i have been golfing at the course for many years, what burt are you talking about? there must be two of them because the one i know is not anything like you people desribe. unless you are his little click or favorite and do whatever you want to. be fair and let the best man win without all the b.s. "




Greens Got To Go 2 wrote on Nov 5, 2009 3:31 PM:

" I am proud of the citizens and loyal golfers for standing up for Burt! It is transparent what our "Mayor", "City Manager" and "City Council" is doing and their plan is NOT what is best for our community. Burt has been available rain and shine, day in and day out, for the patrons of our community which is more than I can say for any of the above people in said positions. So many of us are so disgusted with Mr. Green (he doesn't deserve a title) and as the paper reported, "he's a snake"! "




Burt supporter wrote on Nov 5, 2009 12:59 PM:

" I probably know Burt Watkins better than anybody, Burt has supported junior golfers, high school golfers,senior golfers as well as beginners. Burt has furnished free sodas, food and lessons , as well as golf equpitment for those who was unable to afford them. Dan Dersham finished obtaining his PGA card while being named PGA pro of the year. Now dan offers free lessons every year to those who sign up. Burt always gives a special price to all fund raisers even when he may just break even after he pays his help. numerous other contributions Burt has provided. "




totally right wrote on Nov 5, 2009 10:02 AM:

" You want change you say, well change your shoes!! Don't take our Pro out of his!!! Just because you think by replacing Mr. Watkins that all will be "good", do you have any idea on what could happen??? Besides a cheeseburger going from $5 to $8 or $9, your enjoyment of the friendly atmosphere and hometown feeling WILL NOT exsist. Anyone that knows about big companies taking over G.C., stripmalls, local business' of any sort...knows that it will be a STIFFNECK out to profit for myself kind of GOLF COURSE...Is that what we want??? NO!!!! SUPPORT BURT!!!! "




WHATEVER wrote on Nov 5, 2009 9:54 AM:

" So, we come to ask??? If and when you have 28yrs accomplished in your career, would you want the same treatment? Out with the old in with the new...we did that with Mayor Talley and look where it got us!!! Ending up with a "great leader"??? Yeah, if your final destination is way down south!! Are you even a golfer? Probablly not. Why don't you come out to the course and see WHY we support Burt, you'd probably change your theory "out with the old, in with the new". Come out and visit, what do YOU have to loose???? "




Show Burt Support wrote on Nov 5, 2009 8:26 AM:

" Thank you "concerned local golfer" for updating your local residents about the city council meeting on Monday. This situation in reguards to Mr. Watkins being re-placed by an outside company or individual is down right UNFAIR!!! I plan on attending this meeting and I hope that others will come and show thier support to a man that well deserves it....BURT!! GOOD LUCK MR. WATKINS----WE WANT YOU TO STAY OUR PGA PRO!!!!! EVERYONE PLEASE ATTEND THIS MEETING!!! "




concerned local golfer wrote on Nov 5, 2009 8:06 AM:

" To all those that would like to help support Mr. Watkins and your local Golf Course: The Mt. Graham Golf Assoc. has been placed on the City Council agenda to be discussed on MONDAY NOVEMBER 9TH AT 7:00PM. The meeting is held at the Safford Library located on the corner of 8th & 8th. This meeting is open to the public so, tell your friends, relatives and co-workers. Again, thats....THIS MONDAY NOV. 9TH 7:00PM...Safford Library!! "




Change wrote on Nov 5, 2009 7:27 AM:

" Change is good, after to long on the job u become or think u become irreplacable not. let him go out with the old in with the NEW. this is a voters choice also out with the old in with the new!!! LET HIM GO DO THE RIGHT THING MAYOR. "




had enough of green wrote on Nov 4, 2009 7:13 PM:

" mayor green has to go "




Just Say NO to the management companies wrote on Nov 4, 2009 1:47 PM:

" Worth noting is that government entities need to get three bids on purchases up to a certain value (usually around $5,000) and must put out to bid any contract over that amount. While am not an expert on this situation I am relatively certain that the city could have voted to amend the contract to allow an extension. However, this is something that is often done at the time of the original bid. Should Mr. Watkins work for the city as an employee charged with running the course then there was no need to put it out to bid. "




hole-in-one wrote on Nov 4, 2009 7:21 AM:

" Boy, you got that right...we don't know what we have until "he's" gone. I am praying that the Mayor and the rest of the Council will do whats fair & right. Listen to your local citizens--WE WANT BURT TO STAY!! 95% of these comments are in favor of Burt, don't you see that? Mayor Green, if you had 95% of the votes would you want another canidate to walz in and take it from you? Probably not. Give Burt his job and let us keep the man that we have enjoyed and wanted as our "pro" for the past 28yrs.!! "




justagolfer wrote on Nov 4, 2009 7:04 AM:

" As a past THS golf team player, I want thank Burt for all the support that he gave to me. I was not the best player or even had that many friends in school but everyday I looked forward to practicing because of Burt. He gave me not just advice for my game but he gave me a lifetime worth of self-esteem. I gained more confidence and pride from him than he will ever realize. Burt cares and I think its our time to return that to him. Don't replace a man who has done so much for so many. "




Save the Pro wrote on Nov 3, 2009 2:51 PM:

" You never appreciate what you have until you don't have it anymore. The man isn't a saint but he sure knows golf, shows respect to all, teaches youngsters to show respect as well as golf and has never cheated a person out of a nickel. Can you say the same; Ron Green? "




recent bride wrote on Nov 3, 2009 1:01 PM:

" I recently had my wedding at the G.C. and what a beautiful job that Dee Dee did for us. She went over and beyond what we ever expected!!! The service was outstanding, extremely organized, and professionally handled. I had never even met her before and by the time my wedding event was over you would have thought I was part of her family. Dee Dee, thank you!! I hope the City Council knows what this community will be missing if they don't have you or Burt at that G.C. What a true blessing you both are!!! "




did you forget wrote on Nov 3, 2009 12:30 PM:

" I wanted to express to another employee of Mt. Graham G.C.that in my opinion deserves to be supported too. Dee Dee-- you will never know the depth of respect and apprecieation that many of us hold for you. You are ONE OF A KIND!! You take the time to know each and every customer, golfer, or grandkid. Each one of us are important to you, weather it is a golf team student, a bridge lady, a bride, winter-visitor or local golfer young or old...you make us smile everyday. The course will not be the same without you or Burt!!! "




Better Choices wrote on Nov 3, 2009 9:41 AM:

" I am not a big fan of hiring a management company. They cost upwards of $100,000 a year. They offer lower rates on equipment and products for golf course maintenance, however, any superintendent that has worked for a management company will tell you they save you on some things and hit you with others. In the end; it is a wash. Bottom-line, they are in business to make a profit and not to ensure your guest getting the experience they deserve. If you have a dedicated hard working staff they generally will tie their hands. American golf is notorious fro "




Keep Burt wrote on Nov 3, 2009 8:35 AM:

" Why can't we just keep things the way they have been for 28yrs.? Like the old saying goes...."why fix it when its not broken". Burt has done a great job all these years and why re-place him when there is simply no need. Who's idea and ("why") was it to do this? Setting aside all the "talk" that is going around weather or not its true or false does not clarify why in the first place,would Burt deserves this action from the City. 28yrs of being a dedicated employee and this is what he gets.....WHY...what did he do???KEEP BURT! "




Duffer 4 wrote on Nov 3, 2009 7:29 AM:

" Those golfers who feel that a resident fee is tantamount to robbery, need to look at other public courses, example is Prescott. They have them.

The Mt. Graham Golf Course is an average course overall. It is not a country club quality course physically. IT is a blue collar small town course. Don't make it out to be the equal to those in the Phoenix or Tucson etc. areas. But it is the only game in town. It provides snowbirds an ideal walking course as well as a feeling of togetherness and friendship. Burt has helped create this. "




Duffer 3 wrote on Nov 3, 2009 7:19 AM:

" Years ago, the City of Safford and Mayor Van Talley outsourced Safford's utilities to an outside company. It didn't turn out so well as I recall. In fact from what I remember, it was a disaster. Choosing some outside organization to take on Mt. Graham golf course is heading in the same direction. I doubt that they will be around long and do what some believe is possible. Make the golf course a cash cow.
Here are a couple of suggestions to increase revenue. Reinstitute the institutional rate and open the course on Mondays during the summer. "




Duffer 2 wrote on Nov 3, 2009 7:09 AM:

" The golf course and its physical condition,fairways, greens, t boxes, etc is the responsibility of the greens keeper and his employees. The proshop, carts, scheduling, parties, bar, food etc. are Burts and his employees. Don't blame the condition on him. The community has come to respect and depend on this place running smoothly fore more than just golf. Weddings, receptions, dances, women playing cards, Thursday and Friday night meals, as well as the best hamburger in the valley. Why? The answer is Burt and what he has put together. The next person whoever, will not be able to duplicate this. "




Duffer 1 wrote on Nov 3, 2009 7:01 AM:

" I have lived in Safford and golfed at MT. Graham Golf Course longer than Mr. Watkins tenure. I have seen the course go from a 9 hole to the present 18 hole layout with all of its adjustments. The one thing that has remained constant has been Burt. He knows the opperation and what it entails. This to some may seem to allow him time to sit back and do little, however his knowledge and experience allows him to promote the club through social interaction with the public.

I believe that there is a misconception about the golf course. "




agreed... wrote on Nov 2, 2009 10:03 PM:

" I am siding with Burt and all the residents that enjoy golf, dining and r&r with thier friends at the course. Just get back to basics...don't use a "loop-hole" in a contract that has been the same for 28yrs and now is "suddenly changed" to re-place a "highly qualified" man for the job. Burt has made the golf course a great place for everyone to enjoy and all we are asking is for Burt to continue what he has been doing all these years....Making the game fun, enjoyable and a lifetime memories for many of us. Please listen to us..... "




wow wrote on Nov 2, 2009 9:26 PM:

" umm...even if some "talk" is rumor and some is "true"...who should we believe??? My opinion would be for the man getting the raw end of all of this nonsense....Burt. What the heck did he even do to deserve this? He is probably feeling the same way alot of us did when Free-port did all the lay-off's. Nobody expected to loose thier job without doing anything wrong as an employee but they did it anyway. I feel for Burt and hope he stays the Golf Pro, he's dedicated 28yrs of GREAT SERVICE.....remember that when you vote COUNCILMAN...Vote Yes to BURT!!!! "




Golfer wrote on Nov 2, 2009 7:23 PM:

" Here's your facts: Phil Green - past president and vice president of SWSPGA - is a buddy of Mike Wright - current SWSPGA president. Golfers who Kincaid will have review proposals - SWSPGA golfers. Golfers who were promised to be on the hiring committee by Kincaid and now find out that's not true - Mount Graham Golf Association golfers. Fact is little Ronnie Green is trying to run Burt out on a rail when he is the best thing about the course. I heard 90 percent of the snowbird golfers will stop coming if Burt goes. "




Well wrote on Nov 2, 2009 7:02 PM:

" You do realize the last name doesn't have to be Green for him to be his nephew. Do you have a sister who married someone and had a child. That nephew would not carry the same last name as you. "




Get Some Facts wrote on Nov 2, 2009 6:38 PM:

" Superstition Mountain is different than Superstition Springs. Two different places and golf courses. Again, no Green recently completed courses at any PGA School. Just not true, period. People like you must like to start rumors and don't care if they know the facts. By the way, I know Burt and think he is a very nice guy. Great to have a beer with. Why not just get good factual information out there instead of trying to taint the picture with mis-information. "




updated facts wrote on Nov 2, 2009 4:11 PM:

" You can go online and find that there is a connection with O.B. sports and Superstition Springs (A.K.A. Superstition Mountain) and your right...the Greens don't have a nephew in PGA school...thats cause he has recently completed his courses and that would make him "not a current student" anymore. Also, who cares what the Green family is up to, let them accept any consequences with the choices they make, but why does Burt have to loose his job and all of us loose a GREAT asset to our local G.C.??? SAVE BURT!!! Re-New his contract, let us keep our PRO!!!!!! "




Save Burt wrote on Nov 2, 2009 10:08 AM:

" I grew up playing on the golf course and was part of the SHS team that took state. I know Burt personally and he reached out to all of us who were learning the game and gave us a chance to play and learn the game. He is a good person and has done a lot behind the scenes for kids and people. If you get rid of Burt you are not only losing a expert of the game you are losing someone who takes pride in watching people grow! "




Get Some Facts wrote on Nov 2, 2009 9:25 AM:

" Reporters should get facts before writing their articles. Anyone that believes anything this guy would write should think again. Just a couple of clarifications of fact for the readers. One, OB Sports does not manage Superstition Springs. Two, the Greens do not have a nephew going to PGA School. WOW. Nice Job there Jon Johnson. "




HOTROD wrote on Nov 2, 2009 7:14 AM:

" I just want to know why there is even a NEED to re-place Burt Watkins when for 28 YEARS (that's a loong time) he has done an OUTSTANDING job!!!!! Do you actually think that the residents of this valley are going to believe that Burt-- ALL OF A SUDDEN in the year 2009 caused the city's deficit and now the only way to "fix" it is to BOOT BURT OUT!!! Come on City Council...do whats right...KEEP BURT WATKINS!!!! He's the right chioce for the job, listen to your local golfers...The same ones that voted for all but TWO of you........!!!! "




knucklehead wrote on Nov 2, 2009 6:57 AM:

" Way to go Golf Members!!! Standing up for your dedicated Golf Pro of 28yrs is AWSOME!!! Burt is a great, he has done some much for people of this valley that has gone without recongition for years. I'm 42yrs old and a graduate of THS. I can remember Burt helping me and alot of my friends with golf advice. He is a special person and does NOT deserve to be replaced by ANYONE!!! Let him keep his job as golf pro, afterall...he's done a WONDERFUL job for 28years!!!! I hope the council members VOTE YES for Burt to STAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "




DIVINE MISS M wrote on Nov 1, 2009 7:50 PM:

" YOU ALL SHOULD KNOW ....Green's brother Phillip is a golf pro...probably needs a job! "




Parttimegolfer wrote on Nov 1, 2009 7:08 PM:

" I definetly do not condone government corruption and feel it is becoming the norm more and more.
Having said that, I am glad that the city is opeing up the management opportunity. Everytime that I have been to the club I only see the current pro sitting at the bar watching t.v. and enjoying a drink with his buddies. Isnt the pro supposed to be giving lesson, having golf schools, etc? What happened to turf grass management? The course is in the worst shape I have ever seen it in and doesnt appear to be getting better. "




Bo Luke Duke wrote on Nov 1, 2009 6:19 PM:

" All of this reminds me of an episode of the "Dukes of Hazard".

Boss Hogg and his cronies were always trying to pull off some wacko scheme to their advantage.

I think I recall an episode when Boss Hogg had a nephew who needed a job at the local golf course---so he and his henchmen phonied up a "job bidding requirement" to get the lad his job---at the expense of the existing golf pro.

It was pretty funny on the TV show---not so funny to be living it! "




Thoughtful wrote on Nov 1, 2009 6:13 PM:

" Is Burt Watkins perfect? Nope---he could spend more time giving lessons or organizing leagues, perhaps----but who is perfect?

The Mayor? The City Manager? The Council?

Burt is on the job every day, and his "constituents" like him enough to stand up for him when they perceive he is being treated unfairly. That says something about the job he is doing. This is no proper reward for faithful service. "




Reader wrote on Nov 1, 2009 6:08 PM:

" Thanks to Jon Johnson for stepping up to the plate and calling a "Spade a Spade".

It will be a lot harder for the Mayor and his cronies to pull off stuff like this if it is brought to the attention of your readers.

The golfers are "mad as heck" and they are going to tell their friends----hopefully they will all vote, too, next time they get a chance. "




Golfer wrote on Nov 1, 2009 6:03 PM:

" If the City was concerned about the so-called "deficit" ----why haven't they raised the rates at the course in 7 years?

Why haven't they gone to a "tiered" system that would charge non-city residents a little more than city residents?

Too easy to use the "deficit" to bump Old Burt out of the way---and get someone more "favored" into the position.

Fine reward for 28 years of service by Burt. An amazing coincedence that he will be let go just as one of the Mayor's relatives graduates from golf pro school. "