Publicity is a weird thing. Many big businesses feel there is no such thing as "bad publicity" and that whenever a business can make it into the news, it should end up being beneficial in the long term. I'm not sure I agree, but maybe that's why I do what I do every day. I can say with great certainty, that Mulligan could care less about publicity, despite the additional attention he has been receiving at the club since the book has been published or the extra treats doled out by members these post-publishing weeks. Some of the club members have even chosen to reward his new star status with compressed peanut butter and oatmeal in the shape of a bone...no ordinary treats for this celebrity! Oblivious to all the fuss, he still maintains his normal "aw shucks" persona and remains unchanged, with the exception of his waistline. He still takes time to greet anyone with a friendly face.
Maybe there is a lesson to learn in all this. Granted, Mulligan has no way of comprehending why he's getting more attention these days; he just appreciates any and all food carrying friends. In the grand scheme of things, there is a subtle undertone on one of life's lessons here. Just because fame and or fortune come your way, it doesn't mean that your attitude or personality need to change. Unfortunately it is easier said than done, unless you are Mulligan.
Now that the first mention of the book has hit one of the golf industry magazines (Golf Course Trades, December 2009), I have been receiving numerous comments and questions about my life with Mulligan and the publishing of the book. There are also many stories being told by fellow superintendents about their own experiences with their dogs. I encourage any of you reading this post, or any of the past posts, to leave comments or share your own stories. I will try to reply to as many as possible. In the next couple of months, there should be some additional publicity in Golf Course Management and Golfdom magazines. Keep your eyes open!