Ed, I will answer your questions as best I can based on my understanding. Roger or Kris Spence (if he spots this thread) can chime in if my facts are a bit off or they have a different perspective.
The acquisition of the additional land was crucial. I doubt the pieces to the puzzle would have fallen into place without it. It was a major catalyst to the club's engagement of Kris to prepare a master plan. Since we were sensitive about maintaining our Ross roots, we coordinated with the Donald Ross Society and engaged Brad to consult as part of developing that master plan. We did not have green details. So the finished product is definitely Kris' interpretation based on his experience as a Ross restorationist and what he found on the ground. The tree removal is just incredible. Trust me, even for a diehard anti-arborist, it is hard to watch hundreds if not thousands of trees cut and piled up in gigantic heaps. It tests your faith. But that faith has paid off in spades for us. Contrary to the old saying, you couldn't see the trees for the forest. Now the remaining specimens shine. And don't discount the fact that we were very lucky to have the right leadership at the right time. At the end of the day, these things come down to the vision of individuals and their ability communicate that vision to others. In our case, we were fortunate that they painted a picture the members could easily see.
Ed