Vol 26 Issue 9 - Boca Grove

Cherish t he Lifestyle

y a s d e i l l d o n H Bu Choice of of One Shirt

Bionic Glove

Decal

www.turflifeclub.com

THIS IS

©2026 Ave Maria

A

GOLF TROPHY It is a monument to inside jokes, birdies and bogies, bragging rights in perpetuity, and a rivalry turned into lifelong friendship.

Live in Ave Maria and see how the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

On-site Schools / Championship Golf Courses Water Park / Town Center / Shopping and Dining Visit more than 25 model homes / 239.352.3903 New Homes from the Low $200s–$800s / AveMaria.com

from the publisher

More Hits, Clicks and Pics in '26!

If you’d have told me

26 years ago, I’d be concerned about something called social media, I’d have said do you have a CD I can learn from? Now we watch YouTube, TikTok, Reels on Instagram and of course Facebook.

Keeping up with these new forms of communication is exhausting!! Every day, 7 days a week at 9:30 we post, tag, share, like, comment on tons of different pages and platforms. In these posts we highlight features in Golf Central Magazine, starting with our revenue and philanthropic partners. It’s always nice when these folks have sex appeal, cause we know that works!

The next learning curve is analytics, focusing on key metrics (Engagement, Reach, Audience Demographics, Conversations) and analyze performance. It’s fun to see what hits, like Monarchs we reached 100s of non-followers with those posts. Check out our Audubon International feature every month. We here at GCM have a folksy grasp on our demo.

Golfers today are younger, more diverse and include a lot more women, which ironically lends itself to more sex appeal! Woo Hoo!! This group is very influential in driving billions in economic activity, creating jobs and attracting major corporate sponsors.

The sports boom was fueled by the pandemic interest and new formats (simulator businesses). This industry, just in the U.S., generates over $100 billion in economic impact and supports 1.65 million jobs, according to NGF. And, as you know, us ladies are (for the most part) in charge of the purse strings.

We’ve recently introduced this new Emmy award winning writer, Paul Kiska, from Cleveland, Ohio and now we reintroduce him as “Golf Star Productions”. Read about his polished video story-telling and watch the videos where he is helping the next generation of athletes share their stories and shine with GSP. This will be an engaging theme for 2026 to get more clicks, hits and share more pics.

As Lou Holtz said “Your talents determine what you can do.

Your motivation determines how much you are willing to do. Your attitude determines how well you do it”.

You did it well Fuzzy, RIP! Happy Holidays and a Groovy New Year.

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Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum (terrie@golfcentralmag.com) Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates (shannon@golfcentralmag.com) Graphic Design: Melahn Cable Solutionist: Sara Rogers Turf Pirate: Anthony Williams Photojournalist: Greg Corbo Videographer: Ronald Malone Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson, Tres Fenton, Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway, Angela Kiska, Madison Coates, Mac Carraway Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr. International Correspondent: Dave Finn The Needle: Bill Bona Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Bob Bolton, Greg Corbo, Elisa Gaudet, Holly Geoghegan, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Lauren McMillin Anthony Williams, Tres Fenton, Ronald Malone, Paul Kiska, Tim King, Rocky Miller, Sara Rogers Editor Emeritus: Joel Jackson, CGCS Retired Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, Founder-Georgia Golf Trail Video Visionary: Amy Fox Business Advisor: Jim Para Oversight Officer/Uber Driver: Rocky Miller Media Partners: DSP Media; John Gerber, JP Peterson, Nick Geddes, Holly Geoghegan, Golf Insiders, GMS; Tony Leodora, George McNeilly, Traveling Golfer, Golf The Wise Way: Greg and Beverly Wise, Photojournalists Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by: Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 4313 Berwick Dr, Lake Wales, FL 33859 NEW PHONE: 863.875.6863 E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com ©2025 Golf Central Magazine. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Editorial contributions are welcome, but Golf Central Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited proposals, manuscripts and photographs.

All materials submitted not accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope will not be returned. Mailing, electronic mailing or faxing of contributions constitutes an expressed warrant on the part of the contributor that all material is original and does not infringe on the rights of others. Golf Central Magazine retains all reprint rights and reserves the right to edit any submitted material to meet our specifications for publishing and or use in advertising or promotion. The Publisher and staff are not responsible for any loss or grievance by any person or persons whatsoever, due in any way or in part to the content of this publication. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse to accept any material deemed inappropriate or in bad taste.

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

Y A PL Y L D BOL CELEBRATE MERRILY

Volume 26, Issue 9 26 Cart Girl 14 Tiia Herto – Saltleaf Cuisine on the Green 12 The Cliffs 44 The Clubs at St. James FEATURE 10 Boca Grove

C herish t he Lifestyle

Golf Bachelor 22 Sean Veinot – PGA National Golf Business 40 GolfSuites 42 Whoosh, Inc

Feature Article Pg 10

54

46

Growing the Game 16 Barry Friedmans

Departments

Leader on the Links 34 Howitt

24 Competitive Spirits

Living on the Links 18 Hot Springs Village

38 Georgia Golf Trail

Private Times 28 Gleneagles Country Club

48 NFPGA

Special Events 26 Turtleback Mountain Golf & Resort 32 Festivals of Speed Turf Life 52 Turf Pirate’s Journal 54 Cleveland Guardians 56 Bob and Joe Alonzi 58 Mark Kann Women in Golf 36 Traveling Golf Diva

golfcentralmag.com 8

20 Holiday Gift Guide

46 GAPGA 50 SFPGA

12

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feature

When Tradition Evolves: How Boca Grove Reflects the Future of Member-Owned Golf Clubs For decades, the identity of the

member-owned golf club was clearly defined. Golf was the centerpiece, the clubhouse the gathering place, and tradition the guiding principle. But today, as demographics shift and expectations evolve, the most successful clubs are discovering that honoring tradition does not mean standing still. Boca Grove, one of Boca Raton’s most intimate and boutique private clubs, offers a compelling example of how a memberowned community can evolve meaningfully while remaining deeply rooted in its heritage.

on the golf course or courts, left to build careers and families, and ultimately returned to purchase homes within the community. That continuity creates something rare: a club culture that is both stable and dynamic, grounded yet forwardlooking. With more than 350 children across toddlers, children, tweens, and teens, Boca Grove has embraced the reality that the modern club is a family destination.

Youth golf, racquet sports, swim programs, camps, and curated social activities ensure that the next generation develops its own connection to the club—securing its future while enriching its present.

Golf Remains King—With a Legendary Legacy While the Boca Grove lifestyle has expanded, golf remains firmly at its heart. The club’s Jim Fazio– designed, 18-hole championship

A Community Built on Continuity Boca Grove has always been a club defined by strong traditions, family values, and a clear sense of who it is. As a multi-generational community, members don’t simply join Boca Grove—they grow up here.

It’s not uncommon to find members who began as child members, built lifelong friendships 10

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

engagement while strengthening community. Today, members enjoy nine Har-Tru tennis courts, an Italian red clay court, Padel, pickleball, and comprehensive programming designed to foster genuine connection, not just participation.

course, with its hallmark no tee time policy, continues to be its crown jewel. But Boca Grove’s golf pedigree runs even deeper. In the 1980s, the club hosted the first three years of the Quadel Seniors Classic on the Champions Tour. Arnold Palmer won the first two years, and Gary Player claimed his first Champions Tour victory at Boca Grove in 1985. That same year, Player purchased his first American home in the community.

At 90 years old, Gary Player remains an honorary member, embodying the club’s commitment to golf, wellness, and longevity. It is this blend of history and relevance that allows Boca Grove to evolve without ever losing sight of golf’s primacy.

Wellness and Longevity as a Natural Extension of Golf As members live longer and remain active well into later stages of life, wellness has become a central pillar of the Boca Grove experience, not as a trend, but as a philosophy.

The club’s two-story sports and wellness center, opened in 2021, includes state-of-the-art fitness facilities, DEKA programming, cold plunge, infrared sauna, Bio-Charger technology, DNA/Epigenics testing, and recovery-focused amenities.

Known as “The Curve,” the fitness experience is designed to support performance, mobility, and longterm health, enhancing members’ Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

ability to enjoy golf, racquet sports, and daily life. Wellness at Boca Grove isn’t positioned as a separate amenity. It’s integrated into the lifestyle, reinforcing the idea that caring for mind and body allows members to stay engaged with the club they love for decades.

Racquet Sports Leadership— Breaking the Mold Early Boca Grove’s racquet history is as distinguished as its golf legacy. The club features a nationally recognized tennis program, including an imported Italian red clay stadium court modeled after the French Open, the only one of its kind on the Eastern Seaboard south of New York. Tennis legends such as Andre Agassi, Andy Murray, Coco Gauff, Martina Navratilova, and the Bryan Brothers have played on Boca Grove’s courts, many through charity events supporting youth tennis and nonprofit causes. Yet Boca Grove has also been willing to lead rather than follow. In 2022, Boca Grove became the first private, memberowned golf club to introduce Padel, transforming an existing tennis court and pioneering what has since become one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. As the second club on the Eastern Seaboard to build Padel courts, Boca Grove once again demonstrated its willingness to evolve thoughtfully … expanding

Food, Social Experiences, and Boutique Exclusivity As with many forward-thinking clubs, Boca Grove recognizes that food and social experiences are central to modern member satisfaction. Dining has become a destination, and the club’s calendar is filled with curated experiences … from summer barbecues and themed dinners to holiday brunches and festive celebrations. These “overthe-top” moments are not excess, they are emotional anchors. They create shared memories, deepen friendships, and transform the club from a place members visit into a place they belong. All of this unfolds within a boutique environment that balances exclusivity with comfort, supported by exceptional staff and a culture that feels personal rather than institutional.

The Future of the MemberOwned Club Boca Grove’s story mirrors a broader shift happening across member-owned golf clubs nationwide. As demographics change, the definition of the club experience is expanding. Wellness, racquet sports, family programming, elevated dining, and immersive social events are no longer optional … they are essential. What sets Boca Grove apart is not just what it offers, but how it evolves: thoughtfully, authentically, and always in service of its members. Golf remains king.

Tradition remains respected. But the kingdom around it has grown … creating a vibrant, inclusive, multi-generational community built to thrive for decades to come.

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cuisine on the green

Boozy Chocolate Truffle The Cliffs at Mountain Park Chef Kristin Bergschneider

Chef Kristin Bergschneider

Executive Chef at The Cliffs at Mountain Park Chef Kristin Bergschneider,

Executive Chef at The Cliffs at Mountain Park, brings a warm, family-rooted approach to her culinary leadership. Inspired from an early age by summers spent picking fresh produce and cooking alongside her family, she believes food should evoke memories, create comfort, and bring people together. At Mountain Park, she focuses on crafting menus that balance variety, quality, and inclusivity, ensuring every dish meets the diverse tastes and dietary needs of members while reflecting the seasons through fresh, local ingredients. Known for favorites like her Wisconsin-style Friday fish fry and her rotating seasonal ancient-grain salads, Chef Kristin approaches each plate with the same care she would give a meal served at her own family table. Her talent and leadership have been recognized beyond the club, including earning the “Chef of the Carolinas People’s Choice” award at the Carolinas Chapter CMAA Fall Conference, further highlighting her impact on the dining experience at The Cliffs.

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Chef Kristin’s impressive culinary foundation is supported by an associate’s degree in culinary arts from the California Culinary Academy and a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign, reflecting her unique combination of culinary expertise and business insight.

She honed her skills working in luxury hotels across Northern California, including positions with the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, as well as in Hawaii, where she trained under some of the top chefs in both states. This diverse experience has shaped her approach to menu development, emphasizing seasonal ingredients, refined techniques, and dishes that delight and connect the Mountain Park community.

3/4 cup heavy cream 1-2 tbsp bourbon 1/4 tsp salt 1 cup dark chocolate chopped chocolate bar or chocolate chips 1/4 cup cocoa powder for Instructions: In a small saucepan over medium heat, heat the cream, bourbon, and salt. Whisk the mixture occasionally to prevent it from burning.

When the cream starts to bubble, remove from the heat.

Place the dark chocolate in a heat-proof mixing bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for one minute. Whisk the chocolate until it is completely melted and smooth.

Place a piece of plastic wrap over the bowl of ganache and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until it has thickened.

With a spoon, small cookie scoop, or melon baller, scoop 1 tablespoon-sized truffle mounds onto a plate or lined baking sheet.

Use your hands to roll each mound into smooth balls. This will be messy, so I recommend wearing rubber or plastic gloves.

If you don’t have gloves, lightly dampen your hands and coat them in cocoa powder. Try to only touch the truffles with your fingertips to keep them from melting.

Roll each truffle in a shallow bowl of cocoa powder, or any other topping you prefer, and serve at room temperature.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

cart girl

Where did you grow up?

Born and raised in Evanston, Illinois.

Tii a He rt to

What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch?

Hockey! I have played my whole life through college and wouldn’t change it for the world.

What do you feel makes this club special?

Every day is truly different! Being a public resort in Southwest Florida, we get to meet people from all over the world that come here to play. The fun energy is so contagious! The best days are when I leave work and my cheeks hurt from laughing and smiling so much.

What is your favorite part of being a cart girl?

Being outside with the blue skies, fresh cut grass, birds chirpin!

What is your memorable moment working as a cart girl?

It is crazy to think that I have been at Saltleaf (previously Raptor Bay) for over 5 years now. I have countless great memories and have built amazing relationships. With that being said, my most memorable moment has to be when I first started. I was overwhelmed with joy and excitement to be a part of a new team!

What hobbies do you enjoy?

Other than previously mentioned my favorite sport, hockey, I love doing anything outdoors. That’s why SWFL is the best place to be!

Favorite comedian?

Going back to my Finnish roots I have to say Leikola Ismo, just relatable goofy humor.

Favorite type of movie?

Any classic Adam Sandler movie is always my first response to this question. But, I do love basically any GOOD comedy, romance, action, documentary, you name it.

Favorite charity to support?

We host an event for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital every year. I love working this event, we always have such a great turnout and it really brings everyone together in support of such a great cause.

I couldn’t imagine being a new parent and having to go through what those families do, but St. Jude helps make it easier.

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Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

growing the game Barry Friedman with members of the U.S. Military

Changing Lives, Saving Lives, and Inspiring Veterans Through Golf Vets Talk About “Beautiful Rewards” of PGA HOPE Teachers Like Barry Friedman

By Paul Kiska

Barry Friedman with Jack and Barbara Nicklaus at the 2023 ‘The Memorial’

It’s one of the most

powerful notes a person can get and PGA HOPE volunteer golf teacher Barry Friedman says he has gotten notes, letters, and texts from some veterans who considered suicide or attempted suicide. Their notes were thanking him and PGA HOPE for saving their lives through the physical, mental and wellbeing benefits of playing golf.

PGA Hope at Nicklaus Design: "Smiles all of the Time"

Valley of the Eagles Golf Course, a Nicklaus Design near Cleveland, Ohio, is home to one of the busiest PGA HOPE golf teachers in the country. PGA HOPE golf teacher Barry Friedman is Director of Golf at Valley of the Eagles where the eagles that soar above are fitting symbols of freedom and strength, two qualities Barry inspires into our veterans who serve or served 16

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

their country. “Barry means a lot to me. He’s been there for me if I needed a shoulder to lean on or someone to talk to; no judgement and smiles all of the time,” said Paul Heaverly, who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan. Those battle zones are where Paul sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury and PTSD. Paul’s brother, Trip Heaverly, is also his brother in arms. Trip served two tours of duty in Iraq during the global war on terrorism. He also lives with PTSD from the battlefield, but on the lush green fields of this beautiful golf course on this particular summer day in Ohio, Trip drives home some powerful words about PGA HOPE and about Barry. “The PGA HOPE program helps me physically, mentally, and emotionally,” Trip said. “PGA HOPE and Barry help me understand that golf is an impossibly difficult game that gives you a lot of opportunities to re-frame things after you did something wrong, but you learn to move forward,” Trip added.

"Every Week Everybody is Looking Forward to This Day"

Barry Friedman has taught 300 PGA HOPE golf veterans. He takes groups of veterans golfing where they can enjoy the outdoors, laughs and the camaraderie of being with those who have gone through what they have on and off the battlefield.

“Every week, everyone is looking forward to this day, the veterans and me. We’re counting down the days until we come and meet again,” Barry said. “I’m honored to be able to give back to our brave veterans in memory of my grandfathers who both served in WW II,” Barry added.

American Dunes, Folds of Honor, and Jack Nicklaus

At 42-years-old, Barry has helped hundreds of veterans, and has taught nearly 121 PGA HOPE classes.

Barry is especially proud of having taught the 100th class for PGA HOPE at American Dunes Golf Club in Grand Haven, Michigan. American Dunes is home to Folds of Honor which raises money for the families of fallen veterans and permanently disabled veterans. It also supports PGA HOPE. American Dunes mission is “Helping golfers everywhere.”

During Jack Nicklaus’s ‘The Memorial’ 2023 PGA Tournament at Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio, Barry and others from PGA HOPE and Folds of Honor personally joined Jack Nicklaus and his wife Barbara to honor U.S. service members with a special tribute. Barry is a PGA Masters Professional which is the highest possible educational and career certification from the PGA of America. It’s bestowed upon PGA Golf Professionals who demonstrate

expertise, leadership, and make substantial contributions to the game of golf. Barry has also been honored by the PGA HOPE with its Patriot Award for his commitment to Ohio veterans and beyond.

“The biggest reward is seeing the transformation of these veterans,” Barry said. “PGA HOPE helps with their social and personal wellbeing and to see them feel they’re part of something, and this part of something is bigger than me, it’s hard to put into words.” Barry doesn’t need to put anything into words, his tireless efforts and actions to help veterans says it all, and it’s two words that the veterans say to Barry and to PGA HOPE that make it all worth it, “Thank you.” As another veteran put it, “Barry and PGA HOPE offer what I consider beautiful rewards of inspiration, motivation and being part of a team.”

More than 500 golf courses around the country offer PGA HOPE. You can find out more about PGA HOPE by going to their website https://www.pgareach.org/ pgahope This article also discusses suicide. Veterans and their family members who feel they would like to talk with a counselor can call The Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 on their phones to talk with a friendly and trained counselor 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Trip Heaverly, Barry Friedman, Paul Heaverly Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

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living on the links

Course Highlights: Three Must-Play Rounds in HSV Granada Golf Course Granada is the Village’s most dramatic test, with elevation changes, long par fours, and wide views that make club selection critical.

Nine Courses,

One Golf Community Hot Springs Village, Arkansas,

blends nine well-designed courses, reliable conditions, and a welcoming golf community nestled in the foothills of the scenic Ouachita Mountains.

Few places let you play a different championship course every day of the week without repeating a round, but Hot Springs Village is one of them.

The community’s nine regulationlength layouts, designed by architects such as Tom Clark and Edmund Ault, each bring their own identity and challenge.

Distinct Designs and Natural Terrain From the rolling fairways 18

of Granada, known for its elevation changes and sweeping views, to the approachable playability of Coronado and Magellan, every course offers something

“Few places let you play a different course every day of the week without repeating a round.” distinct. Granada often ranks among Arkansas’s best, while Isabella—a member of the Arkansas Golf Trail— features 27 holes of strong design, bentgrass greens, and dependable course conditions.

The landscape ties it all together. Carved through pine

forest and hilly terrain, the holes use elevation, natural water features, and tree-lined fairways to define targets and shape decisions. The result is golf that rewards good positioning and thoughtful course management.

Spread across 26,000 wooded acres, the Village delivers yearround play and a golf culture that feels genuine. DeSoto, the original course from the early 1970s, plays with old-school charm where strategy matters more than distance. Granada’s modern routing challenges longer hitters, while Coronado’s walkable design favors precision and pace. Wherever you play, the conditions stay consistent, thanks to steady maintenance Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

“Hot Springs Village’s reputation has grown beyond Arkansas in recent years. The community hosted Good Good Golf for a weeklong content shoot that showcased several of its standout courses to millions of online viewers. Goat Hill Golf, another popular digital brand, brought its signature laid-back style to the Village as well—proof that HSV’s mix of playability, scenery, and hospitality translates equally well to camera and course.

and overseeding that keep greens rolling true through every season.

Good golf, good company, and room to play—that’s Hot Springs Village, Arkansas.

For visiting golfers, Hot Springs Village is easy to appreciate: nine distinctive courses, minimal wait times, and a community that lives the game daily. Whether you come for a quick weekend, a winter escape, or to test-drive retirement golf, there’s more than enough here to keep your bag packed and your swing tuned year-round.

Isabella Golf Course (Arkansas Golf Trail) With 27 holes and a spot on the Arkansas Golf Trail, Isabella is a strong choice for first-time visitors.

Coronado Golf Course Coronado’s shorter, walkable layout makes it ideal for sharpening wedges and scoring clubs or fitting in a quick round.

It favors accuracy over power, giving players of all abilities a fair chance to post a good number.

Wherever the round ends, expect good conversation, solid Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

Isabella Pro Shop club fare, and talk of the next event at any of the courses’ clubhouses and restaurants, including The DeSoto clubhouse designed by prominent Arkansas architect E. Fay Jones in 1972.

Nine courses, steady conditions, and a community built around the sport—that’s golf in Hot Springs Village.

www.explorethevillage.com 19

holiday gift guide

Glove It

Glove It is known for bringing confidence, color, and personality to every woman’s game for over 20 years!

Our hand-picked gifts for this holiday season are meant to feel effortless yet fashionable. Leading the assortment is our one-size women’s golf glove, THE gift of the season. Made from soft cabretta leather with its flexible, and adaptive fit, it takes the guesswork out of sizing and delivers unmatched comfort and performance. It’s the kind of present that slips easily into a stocking, that she’ll reach for round after round. Up next are our new PU leather club covers with their playful themes, vibrant embroidery, and durable protection. From tropical icons to florals and cocktail-inspired details, each cover adds a little flair to her bag while keeping her clubs safe and stylish. To top it all off—literally—our embroidered visors and caps bring fun and personality to every swing. With witty phrases and clean, eye-catching stitching, they make easy additions to any gift bundle. Together these curated offerings by Glove It deliver a perfect mix of fun, function, and festive charm. Shop the full collection and find your perfect gift at GloveIt.com.

www.GloveIt.com

Honma x Malbon A Game Reimagined Redefine Golf Style and Performance Two worlds of golf culture united as Honma Golf and Malbon Golf debut their first-ever golf equipment collaboration – a bold fusion of handcrafted performance and contemporary style. From Sakata, Japan, Honma brings six decades of precision artistry; from Los Angeles, Malbon infuses creativity drawn from art, music, and street culture.

Different origins, one shared vision: to inspire more people to fall in love with the game. Together, they’ve created two distinctive lines: the PERFORMANCE Collection, engineered for players seeking performance results, and the PREMIUM Collection, designed for golfers who appreciate exclusivity and craftsmanship. Both lines include a full set of 14 clubs: driver, two fairway woods, one hybrid wood, a seven-piece set of irons, two wedges, putter, a limited-edition cart bag, headcovers, and a putter cover.

Blending Japanese elegance with American energy, this collaboration transcends equipment – it’s a cultural bridge of tradition and innovation, and performance and personality, redefining how the modern golfer looks, feels, and plays the game. The PERFORMANCE (MSRP $5,800) and PREMIUM (MSRP $20,000) collections are now available through select Honma retailers and online at https://us.honmagolf.com/.

Pinned Golf

Pinned Golf is the perfect place to shop for a golfer who loves tech on the course, The Caddie GPS Golf Tablet is a game-changer. With GPS data for over 45,000 courses, a built-in magnet to attach to a cart, and live yardages at your fingertips, it’s like giving them a personal caddie. Their bestselling Prism+ Rangefinder is perfect for any golfer, with a rechargeable battery, built-in magnet, and OLED display. And, for the golfer who loves music on the course, the Sound Stick Speaker and Dart 2.0 Speaker brings better vibes, both on and off the course. Check out their holiday sale, up to 50% off the entire site!

Shop the Holiday Sale now https://pinnedgolf.com/ collections/black-friday-sale

www.pinnedgolf.com/ collections/black-friday-sale

www.us.honmagolf.com

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Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

Shot Scope PRO L2 SkyGolf® A standout gift for golfers of any skill level, the Shot Scope PRO L2 rangefinder delivers premium performance in a compact, stylish package. Fast, ultra-accurate yardages make every round more confident, while advanced features – like Rapid-Fire detection and Target-Lock vibration – ensure players lock onto their target with precision every time.

With an extra-strong built-in magnet, the PRO L2 easily secures to a golf cart or any magnetic surface. Prefer to keep it close? Clip it to your golf bag using the included carry case.

Adaptive Slope technology takes the guesswork out of elevation changes, helping golfers choose the right club for every shot. And when it’s tournament time, simply flip the slope switch to make the PRO L2 competition-legal.

High value, high performance, and highly giftable – whether the golfer in your life is new to the game or a seasoned player chasing lower scores, the PRO L2 is a guaranteed win for the golfer on your list.

On sale $129.99 (MSRP $149.99) at https://shotscope.com/us/.

www.shotscope.com/us

SkyGolf® Celebrates 25th Anniversary with Special Holiday Promotion on the PRO 4X. SkyGolf is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a holiday promotion on the PRO 4X, the newest compact model in the SkyCaddie PRO X family. Equipped with SkyGolf’s proprietary dual-frequency TruePoint Positioning Technology, the PRO 4X delivers laser-accurate distances with unmatched speed and reliability for both professionals and avid golfers.

A smaller yet equally powerful companion to the PRO 5X, the PRO 4X features a vivid, sunlight-readable 4” HD color touchscreen and provides a full-color Professional Tour Book experience. Exclusive SkyCaddie innovations—including IntelliPath, IntelliGreen®, Dynamic HoleVue®, and advanced shot tracking—give golfers clearer insight into every hole along with fast, precise yardages.

The PRO 4X pairs seamlessly with SkyGolf’s GameTraX 360, the next generation of game and performance tracking, and is fully compatible with SkyGolf’s revolutionary SuperTags™. Its ultra-fast multicore processor powers TruePoint Precision Positioning, doubling previous error-correction standards for superior accuracy on every shot.

Preloaded with over 35,000 professionally ground-verified course maps, the PRO 4X offers multiple hole views from your exact location, all displayed with exceptional clarity.

Built for durability, it is highly waterresistant and offers up to 18 hours of battery life. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity make updates and course downloads easy without a computer.

From now through December 31st, golfers can save $50 on the PRO 4X and PRO 5X handhelds, as well as LX5, LX5C, and LX2 smartwatches.

With its compact, ergonomic design, rapid responsiveness, and robust suite of stroke-saving features, the SkyCaddie PRO 4X delivers a tourlevel GPS rangefinder experience in a sleek, lightweight package.

Learn more at www.skygolf.com.

www.skygolf.com

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

21

golf bachelor

Sean Veinot

Where were you born? Did you grow up there? I was born in Middleton, Nova Scotia, Canada. I spent most of my childhood there but bounced back and forth to Georgia, where my mom is from—so I’m a mix of Southern charm and Canadian roots.

What do you do for a living? I’m a teaching golf professional in South Florida, primarily focused on junior golf and growing the game.

Is “acting your age” overrated? Absolutely. Life’s too short to be serious all the time. I’m a kid at heart. As a golf professional, I’m in a professional setting most days, but I love breaking it up by joking around with juniors, playing fun matches, and betting for milkshakes and candy bars.

Name the three most important things to you in this world. My mother; Faith; Health and happiness Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? Love. It’s the hardest to find, and the most important. Everything else is easy.

What do you fear the most? Looking back one day and realizing I didn’t chase my dreams or live life to the fullest.

What would you like to do for a living? Honestly, I’m doing exactly what I love. The only thing I’d change is being able to travel more in the summer—Florida heat is no joke.

What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? My grandfather, my hero; My father, who taught me the game; Tiger Woods— specifically the week before his first Masters win

Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation?

I love hitting the beach, exploring new spots, going to country concerts, and traveling whenever I can.

What are some of your great accomplishments?

Getting my pro-card on my first try.

What golf apparel do you like to wear?

Holderness & Bourne; Greyson

Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails?

Definitely a relaxed night at home—cooking a meal together from scratch, music on, lots of laughs.

Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? Charley Hull. She’s unapologetically herself, never tries to fit the mold, treats fans with so much kindness, and has a great sense of humor.

Last time you spewed something through your nose from laughing so hard? Recently! A friend fell into a lake trying to hit a hero shot on the first hole and had to finish the round covered in mud. I lost it.

Tell us about your first kiss. Straight out of a rom-com—it was supposed to be a kiss on the cheek, but she turned at the perfect (or worst) time and it landed right on the lips.

Steak, chicken, or seafood? All of the above! But if I have to choose… a Ribeye Steak wins every time.

Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I quietly love helping people behind the scenes—volunteering, donating, supporting causes I believe in. I have a soft spot for animal shelters especially.

What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? A fishing pole; A Morgan Wallen album; A sand wedge Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why? My roommate’s dog, Riley. He’d be thrilled just to be there and would absolutely help me build sandcastles.

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate 22

on the golf course? A bad attitude or acting like they’re above others. Everyone starts somewhere. I love helping people enjoy the game more—whether that’s swing tips or mindset shifts.

Favorite comedian? Dave Attell—most people haven’t heard of him, but he’s brilliant.

Movies:…comedy, drama, action, romance? Romantic comedies.

I’m a total softie. Absolutely cannot do scary movies.

Last book you read? Ben Hogan’s Five Lessons—highly recommend.

Favorite magazine? Golf Central Magazine Favorite charity to support? Animal shelters—always. I have a real soft spot for abandoned or mistreated animals.

What else would you like for us to know about you? I’m a simple country guy at heart—always listening to country music and trying to make people laugh. Before golf, I worked in a nuclear plant near Toronto and played high-level hockey until injuries forced me to stop at 20. I’m a hopeless romantic who believes in meeting the right person the right way.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

23

competitive spirits May River Grill

Gene Castellino is a seasoned

beverage and hospitality professional known for his thoughtful approach to curation, wellness-minded philosophy, and leadership within luxury dining environments. As Beverage Director at the Palmetto Bluff Club, one of South Carolina’s most distinguished private residential communities, Gene plays a central role in shaping a beverage program that blends Lowcountry character with elevated, globally inspired taste.

Gene’s path began at Pennsylvania State University, where he built the foundational knowledge that would support a career at the intersection of hospitality, service, and experience design. Over the years, he cultivated an expertise that spans wine selection, craft cocktail development, staff training, and the creation of beverage programs that are both inviting and aspirational.

At Palmetto Bluff Club, Gene is responsible for crafting beverage 24

Gene Castellino’s S’mores Old Fashioned experiences that match the community’s reputation for excellence — curating wine lists, directing cocktail programs, collaborating with chefs, and ensuring that each dining venue communicates a sense of place.

His perspective is rooted in quality over quantity: he often champions small-batch producers, artisanal spirits, and thoughtfully composed cocktails that encourage guests to savor, not simply sip.

Beyond his professional craft, Gene is also known for his holistic approach to health and lifestyle.

Gene is someone who believes that exceptional food and drink can coexist with intention, structure, and personal wellness. This balance informs his leadership style and the culture he builds within his teams.

His work has contributed to the continued growth of Palmetto Bluff’s dining identity, helping establish the club as a place where hospitality is both refined and deeply genuine. Whether developing new seasonal menus, refining the club’s educational initiatives, or guiding guests through a curated tasting, Gene brings passion, precision, and an unwavering dedication to the guest experience.

S’mores Old Fashioned May River Grill, Palmetto Bluff Club From Gene Castellino, Palmetto Bluff Club’s Beverage Director

Ingredients: 2.5oz Woodford Double Oaked 0.5oz Vanilla extract 5 - 6 drops Cocoa bitters

Recipe:

Combine all ingredients in rocks glass with a big ice cube and stir well.

Rim rocks glass with Hershey’s and graham crumbles and finish with cinnamon smoke.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

These unique tournament gifts are...

ON POINT PREMIUM BALL MARKERS:

• Includes a 3D domed marker that

helps with alignment and a traditional coin for marking your ball.

• Customizable with high precision advanced engraving.

• Each marker comes with logoed premium velvet bag.

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special events

Record-Breaking New Mexico Open Delivers Historic Media Coverage and Major Economic Boost Across Sierra County

Turtleback Mountain Golf & Resort

The 2025 Turtleback Mountain Golf

& Resort New Mexico Open shattered records drawing more than 11 million total media impressions and delivering a major economic boost to Sierra County’s tourism and hospitality sectors.

During tournament week, hotels reached record or near-record occupancy, restaurants filled to capacity, and recreation at Elephant Butte Lake surged to near peakseason levels — marking one of the busiest weeks on record for Truth or Consequences, Elephant Butte, and surrounding communities.

The tournament also made PGA

26

Aidan Thomas - New Mexico Open Winner with Perpetual Trophy

of America history as the first-ever sectional championship broadcast live on Facebook, generating 3.5 million views, an average of 23 minutes watched per view, and 648 hours of total watch time across a four-day simulcast shared by 14 partner pages.

Coverage of the New Mexico Open was extensive, with 46 television news stories, 62 print and online features, and more than 1,400 user-generated social media posts amplifying the tournament’s reach. All local television stations, the ESPN Radio affiliate in Albuquerque, and national outlets including Yahoo Sports, MSN, and The Golf Wire, propelled the event onto the national stage, spotlighting its record-breaking success and elevating New Mexico’s profile across the sports media landscape.

This represents the most media coverage ever recorded for a PGA of America sectional tournament.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

Notah Begay III; JC Wright, General Manager of the Resort; Ian Roth, Show Host; Aidan Thomas, Tournament Winner

New Mexico Open Action – AJ Couch, Korn Ferry Tour Professional

Turtleback Mountain Golf & Resort On Course Interview - James Prendamano, CEO PreReal Investments, Being Interviewed

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

27

private times

A New Season Dawns

at Gleneagles Country Club

Just after sunrise at Gleneagles

Country Club in Delray Beach, the fairways glow with that unmistakable South Florida light— soft, warm, and full of promise.

A thin mist lifts from the ponds, the first carts hum to life, and members begin drifting toward the tee, greeting one another as if no time has passed at all. It’s a familiar ritual, one that repeats itself each winter, yet somehow 28

feels renewed each year.

For this private, mandatorymembership residential community—where homes and condominiums range from $200,000 to over $1 million—the rhythm of the season is rooted in community. And as Gleneagles enters 2026, that sense of connection is stronger than ever.

2025 brought a wave of excitement with the opening of the new Tennis & Pickleball Center,

a vibrant social and athletic hub buzzing with early-morning lessons and twilight matches.

Paired with the acclaimed Victory Course renovation in 2024— both completed without an assessment to members—these enhancements remind residents that Gleneagles continues to evolve thoughtfully, without losing sight of what makes it special.

On the golf side, the season ahead promises one of the most Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

Travelers Championship Fan Zone in Connecticut. For five days, club staff and members shared the spirit of Gleneagles with thousands of golf fans. Some stopped by simply to learn more about Florida club life; others came because they had friends at Gleneagles or were curious about the community they’d heard so much about. The response was so enthusiastic that Gleneagles will return to the Travelers Championship in 2026, deepening ties to a region where many members spend their summers.

dynamic schedules the club has ever offered. Weekly 9-hole, 12-hole, and 18-hole leagues keep the course active daily, blending friendly competition with warm camaraderie. This year also introduces a major new highlight: the inaugural two-day Men’s 18-Hole Member-Guest Tournament, set to become a signature event where members proudly welcome family and friends onto their home course.

Then there are the Mixed Couples Events—a beloved tradition that regularly draws more than 260 players and feels, at times, like a festival on the fairways. Whether you’re a brand-new resident or a twenty-year member, these gatherings make it easy to feel part of something bigger.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

What truly shapes the daily golf culture, though, are the individuals who greet members by name, offer guidance on the range, and ensure every detail feels effortless.

Under the leadership of Director of Golf Joe DeMino, who was named Professional of the Year by the Southeast Florida Chapter of the PGA in 2018, the golf department has cultivated a program grounded in warmth, accessibility, and genuine care. Their presence is felt on the first tee, in the golf shop, and during clinics where beginners and seasoned golfers alike feel encouraged to grow their game.

The Gleneagles Story Goes National In 2025, Gleneagles stepped beyond its gates and onto a national stage with its debut at the

Looking Ahead With Confidence and Care Even with a busy season in full swing, Gleneagles continues to plan thoughtfully for the future. In summer 2026, the club will undergo a tees and greens renovation on the Legends Course. Simultaneously, planning is underway for a clubhouse renovation, expected to be complete in 2028, which will reimagine key spaces for dining, gathering, and socializing.

A Community That Feels Like Home If you want to feel the spirit of Gleneagles—those crisp tee shots, shared smiles on the greens, and the pursuit of that next great round—we invite you to see it in person. Contact our Membership Office at 561-498-0707 or visit our website at gleneagles.cc for more information.

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Jennifer Fasking

golf bachelorette

Where were you born? Did you grow up there?

I was born in Minneapolis, MN, and lived there until college.

I miss the changing seasons and the occasional snowstorm (for about a minute), but Florida’s sunshine is hard to beat! I love it here now, but my family’s still up north, so I try to visit as often as I can. It’s one of the only places I could ever see myself moving back to. Plus, my nephews play hockey, and I’m planning to catch as many games as I can this winter!

What do you do for a living?

I’m the Operations Officer for State Farm Federal Credit Union (SFFCU). It’s a hidden gem—most people 30

don’t know it exists, but it’s a big deal for State Farm employees, agents, and retirees. The best part? I get to work from home, which is perfect for me!

Aside from golf, what do you prefer for fun and relaxation?

I’m a bit of a workout junkie (you’ll catch me at the gym 5-6 days a week, usually at 4:30AM—don’t judge!). I also love hitting up my favorite wine bar in downtown Winter Haven, Obscure, for some good laughs and conversation. When I need a change of scenery, I’ll head to the beach or the mountains for a weekend getaway. I’m not one to sit still for too long!

What golf apparel do you like to wear?

Oh, I’m ALL about golf skorts. Seriously, they’re the comfiest things ever, and I’m slowly building a collection in every color. If I had known how fun golf clothes were, I would’ve started playing YEARS ago. Maybe I’ll even get a few more to match the seasons.

Steak, chicken, or seafood?

Gotta go with steak. There’s something about a good steak that just hits the spot, especially when it’s grilled to perfection. But I’m definitely not saying no to seafood if it’s on the table!

Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know.

I’m a total klutz. If there’s a way to fall, crash, or spill something, you can bet I’ll find it. My friends always joke that I could trip over air. Case in point: I once crashed an electric dirt bike in Lake Tahoe…on ice. My friend’s response: “I can’t believe you only crashed once!”

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course?

Rude people and those who take golf way too seriously. It’s supposed to be fun! It’s a privilege to get out on the course, so we should all just enjoy the day, laugh, and appreciate the game.

What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome?

For me is just one person, someone I really miss: my dad. I grew up watching him and the family golf together at the country club and I always wish I’d started earlier to share that with him. Maybe it would’ve been tough with his “helpful tips” the whole way, but it would definitely be a round to remember.

Last book you read?

I’m a huge audiobook fan, and this year, I’ve “read” some amazing books like: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt, Running with Sherman by Christopher McDougall, and My Next Breath by Jeremy Renner. They’ve all been awesome in their own way—deep characters, great stories, and just the right amount of inspiration.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

News, current events; hardcopy or online?

I’m a big fan of getting my news online. It’s easy to keep up with everything in real-time, and I like the flexibility of diving into what interests me.

Favorite charity to support?

My heart belongs to Girls Inc. of Winter Haven. Supporting kids—especially girls—and education is where my passion really comes alive. I’ve been volunteering with Girls Inc. for 7–8 years, and I currently serve as the past Board Chairperson. Being part of an organization whose whole mission is to inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold feels like something that genuinely matters. Girls Inc. has been empowering young girls for over 160 years, and in Winter Haven alone, over 300 girls have been served this year. The programs are research-based, fun, handson, and truly life-changing. You can literally see confidence growing in these girls—whether they’re learning leadership skills, tackling STEM projects, embracing their creativity, or discovering their own voices. And the events? They’re a blast.

We host two major fundraisers each year—the “She Knows Where She’s Going Luncheon” and Angels Among Us, which is my favorite. I mean, what’s better than raising money for a great cause and getting to put on a fabulous holiday dress? We work hard, we laugh a lot, and we get to see our efforts directly impact the lives of the girls we’re lifting up. There’s nothing more rewarding than that. Girls Inc. isn’t just a charity to me—it’s a community, a purpose, and a meaningful part of my life.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

31

special events

Wheels, Watches, Whiskey & Wine Story by Dave Walker Jr., Auctions by Design

The Festivals of Speed –

Wheels, Watches, Whiskey & Wine Series, hosted by Aston Martin Orlando, was an evening of high-end luxury and indulgence; all for a great cause.

Highlights of the evening were gourmet indulgence as guests enjoyed a sophisticated tasting experience, featuring fine Wines, select Bourbons, Scotch, Tequila, and more, perfectly paired with delicious small bites. The dealership provided a stunning backdrop for displays of exotic automobiles, fine jewelry & timepieces. Additional luxury elements included a dedicated

32

cigar bar, handcrafted chocolates, and exquisite Italian pastries.

Trophies were presented to select owners of the show cars that attended, recognizing their exceptional vehicles.

The event featured a successful Silent Auction that significantly benefited the AdventHealth Cancer Institute. The funds raised will directly support gynecologic cancer research being conducted right in Central Florida.

For information on the next event, be sure to visit their official website:

festivalsofspeed.com.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

33

leader on the links

Howitt– Hole In One 06.21.24

How a Champion Hills Golfer Woke Up to a Nobel Prize Howitt, who modeled the theory

of Creative Destruction, has been one of the world’s leading economists for years, so the idea that he would be considered for a Nobel Prize wasn’t outlandish.

But when Howitt, a member at Champion Hills and an avid golfer, went to bed on the evening of October 9, he didn’t even bother turning his phone on.

“It had run out of juice, and I figured it wasn’t going to be me,” Howitt said of his phone and the announcement of the 2025 Nobel Prize winners. “Then my wife’s phone started ringing off the hook, even though it was on Do Not Disturb.”

When she answered her phone after 6 a.m. on the morning of October 10, it wasn’t the Nobel Committee calling. It was an enterprising Swedish journalist calling for comment from the 79-year-old economist, just awakening in his home in the hills of western North

34

Carolina, on winning the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences.

For Howitt, the honor was both surreal and deeply affirming.

He shares the 2025 Nobel Prize with his longtime collaborator Philippe Aghion, recognizing their pioneering work on the theory of creative destruction, the process by which innovation drives growth, while simultaneously rendering older industries

and technologies obsolete.

From Theory to RealWorld Relevance At its core, Howitt and Aghion’s model explains how technological progress fuels long-term prosperity, not just by making economies more productive, but by fundamentally reshaping them.

“We grow richer over the long run because of technological progress,” Howitt said. “It allows us to do things we never dreamed of before, and to do them more efficiently.”

But, as their research shows, that progress comes with conflict.

“New technologies spread benefits to many, but they also destroy livelihoods that depend on the old ones,” he explained.

“The steam engine displaced handloom weavers. Kodak was undone by the digital camera.”

That tension – between innovation and disruption – has made Howitt’s work newly resonant in an age defined by automation and now even AI anxiety.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

A Partnership Born at MIT Howitt traces the roots of this work back to 1987, when he was a visiting professor at MIT and Aghion had just joined the faculty fresh from his Ph.D. at Harvard.

“He was a microeconomist and I was a macroeconomist,” Howitt recalled. “We came from different worlds, but we clicked right away.”

Their collaboration married Joseph Schumpeter’s 1942 concept of creative destruction with the mathematical precision needed to model it. “The idea wasn’t new,” Howitt says. “But nobody had captured it in a way that could be tested and applied. Philippe and I found a way to do that.”

The result was a framework that demonstrated how economic incentives, institutions, and even political resistance can influence the pace of innovation.

Shock, Joy, and a Nobel Call That Almost Didn’t Come When the call from the Nobel Committee in Sweden finally came – nearly an hour after the official announcement – Howitt was still processing the flood of

messages from around the world.

“For the first day or so, it was just shock and confusion,” he says.

“It was overwhelming, messages from people I hadn’t heard from in decades. My first thought was, ‘This has got to be a prank.’”

It wasn’t. Now, the retired Brown University professor is preparing for the Nobel ceremonies in Stockholm, Sweden, on December 10, followed by the lavish banquet hosted by the King and Queen of Sweden. “It’s a white-tie affair,” he said. “There are events all week long – lectures, receptions, embassy gatherings.”

Life in the Hills – and a Return to Economics Though he’s officially retired from teaching, Howitt admits the award has pulled him back into the world of economics as he prepares a public lecture to deliver in Sweden.

While Howitt, a native Canadian, has attracted worldwide attention, it’s life in Champion Hills, one of America’s premier private golf communities, that remains central to his happiness.

“We love it here,” he says. “The people have been wonderful;

it feels like I have this gigantic family all celebrating for me.”

Howitt and his wife originally discovered Champion Hills and Hendersonville as a summer escape from Florida’s heat. “We came up to get away for a few weeks and just fell in love with it,” he recalls. “We signed up for a golf membership and bought a house. We haven’t looked back.”

Even as invitations pour in from around the world, he insists he and his wife plan to keep their life as normal as possible. “Everyone tells me life before the Nobel and life after are two different things,” he says. “But we like our life before the prize. We’re going to do our best to keep it that way.”

For Howitt, the Nobel isn’t just a recognition of intellectual achievement, it’s a celebration of collaboration, curiosity, and endurance. “Philippe and I spent decades refining this model,” he says. “It’s rewarding to know that it’s helped people understand how economies evolve, and that progress, even when it’s disruptive, is at the heart of human advancement.”

e of Golf Histor c e i P A n y Ow This collage has every Masters winner from 1934 - 2025

$595 Includes Shipping

Scan QR Code to Purchase

Purchase proceeds benefit Cancer Institute Size 29"x41"

For any questions: Contact - Dave Walker 321-277-9094 • auctionsbydesign02@gmail.com Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

35

women in golf

heart of The Traveling Golf Diva is about connection—bringing women together who share a love for adventure and the game.

More than a sport, golf becomes a lifestyle filled with excitement, confidence, friendship, and endless opportunities for personal growth.

Today, The Traveling Golf Diva is a thriving community of Divas and Gents offering expert travel insights, practical golf tips, and chic style inspiration for women golfers of every skill level. The mission is simple: make every round memorable, foster confidence on and off the green, and create meaningful partnerships with sponsors who believe in celebrating women in golf.

The Story Behind the Traveling Golf Diva The Traveling Golf Diva was created from a deep passion for adventure and an unwavering love for the game. Founder Doris Muscarella, an avid traveler and dedicated golfer, recognized a gap in the world of women’s golf— there simply weren’t enough resources celebrating women who love to explore the world one fairway at a time. Inspired to create a place where travel, style, and golf all intersect, she launched The Traveling Golf Diva as a platform designed to empower women to embrace the golf lifestyle on their own terms.

The journey began with a tee time and 36

a suitcase full of dreams. From breathtaking fairways in far-off destinations to uncovering the latest trends in golf fashion, the

OUR MISSION & VISION At The Traveling Golf Diva, our mission is to inspire women golfers to explore the world, elevate their game, and express their unique style both on and off the course. We aim to make golf accessible, enjoyable, and empowering by providing engaging travel recommendations, helpful golf tips, and the latest in golf fashion tailored for adventurous women. Our vision is to build a supportive, global community where women feel confident, connected, and celebrated.

EMPOWERING WOMEN GOLFERS & ENGAGING SPONSORS The Traveling Golf Diva is more than a resource—it’s a movement. We celebrate women’s passion for golf, modern fashion, and the thrill of discovering new courses worldwide. For sponsors and industry partners, we offer powerful opportunities to connect with a vibrant, growing audience seeking authenticity, quality, and inspiration. Join us in elevating women’s golf and shaping the future of the game.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

georgia golf trail

Jekyll Island Club Grand Dunes Course

Jekyll Ocean Club Offers Unique Stay/Play Package

By Mike May

If you’re looking for a late winter/ early spring destination that includes golf, time at the beach, mingling with Mother Nature, historical sightseeing, and great seaside dining, consider Jekyll Island, Georgia. There, the Jekyll Ocean Club has teamed up – or, should we say ‘teemed’ up -- with the Jekyll Island Golf Club to offer a special package which features overnight accommodations at the all-suite, oceanfront Jekyll Ocean Club Resort, one round of golf for two people per day at the Jekyll Island Golf Club’s Pine Lakes and Indian Mound courses, and a golfer’s gift bag. This package deal is available through March 31. Upgrades on golf are possible at the Grand Dunes course for an additional cost.

Before or after golf, consider having a bite to eat or a light refreshment at Tribuzio’s Grille, which is located on-site at the Jekyll Island Golf Club.

To add value to the deal, Jekyll Ocean Club will donate $5 per room night to First Tee Golden Isles, the local First Tee chapter that integrates the

38

game of golf with a life skills curriculum that builds innerstrength, self-confidence, and

resilience that area children can carry to everything they do.

“Jekyll Island is a Georgia landmark with a storybook history,” said Kevin Baker, director of sales and marketing for the Jekyll Island Resorts. “We’re very pleased to take these first steps with the Jekyll Island Golf Club in what we hope will be a long and mutually beneficial partnership serving the clients we both value so much.”

Jekyll Island Club

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

Jekyll Island Club Beach View

In addition to spending time on the beach and playing golf, visitors to Jekyll Island enjoy bird watching, bike riding, swimming in the surf, playing tennis, shopping at the Beach Village, learning about turtles at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, guided fishing and crabbing expeditions, and visiting the many historical structures on Jekyll Island.

“The Jekyll Island Golf Club is a perfect place for a golf-themed getaway at any time,” said Georgia Golf Trail Founder Doug Hollandsworth. “In fact, Jekyll Island is one of many popular destinations along the Georgia Golf Trail throughout the year.”

To support this initiative’s commitment to First Tee Golden

Jekyll Island Beach Fishing Isles, the Ocean Club is hosting a kick-off event with Santa Claus which will involve prizes, gifts, and a silent auction on December 20 from 3:00 – 5:00 pm.

To book this unique golf package, please visit www.jekyllclub.com and select golf from the drop-down menu or call 866-342-3683.

Jekyll Island Ocean Club Double Queen Suite

Tribuzios Grille French Toast & Scrambled Eggs

Jekyll Island Pine Lakes Golf Course Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

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golf business

GolfSuites Introduces a Scalable New Vision for Golf Entertainment GolfSuites is entering its next era

with a major strategic pivot that is reshaping how and where people experience the game: the launch of its weatherproof Indoor Simulator Lounge model. Designed for yearround enjoyment in any climate, this concept delivers a premium golf entertainment experience within a streamlined footprint that is faster to develop, more costefficient to operate, and viable in markets previously out of reach for traditional outdoor venues.

The Indoor Simulator Lounge blends high-performance simulator technology with an inviting social atmosphere that welcomes golfers of all skill levels. By reducing development costs and eliminating weather barriers, it increases accessibility and opens the door for communities of all socio-economic backgrounds to enjoy the sport.

It expands golf’s reach, making practice, play, and connection available at an affordable entry point that traditional venues often cannot provide.

“This pivot is about bringing the future of golf entertainment to markets nationwide with a model that is efficient, scalable, and built for year-round success.

We’re excited to make golf more accessible and inclusive than ever,” said Gerald Ellenburg, Chairman and CEO of GolfSuites.

Because the model supports predictable year-round revenue and

shorter development timelines, GolfSuites has advanced to the next stage of its franchising efforts after engaging one of the nation’s top franchise consulting firms. Formal franchise details will be released following FDD filings now underway.

While the Indoor Simulator Lounge is now the company’s primary growth driver,

GolfSuites will continue selective development of its outdoor driving-range entertainment centers in targeted, weatherfavorable markets. Existing venues in Lubbock, Texas, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana remain strong performers, built on GolfSuites’ signature blend of technology, hospitality, and community engagement.

GolfSuites’ evolution reflects its commitment to making golf more accessible, more inclusive, and more available to communities nationwide 365 days a year.

Visit www.golfsuites.com for more information.

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Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

1

R AT E D #

GOLF COURSE IN LOUISIANA

Discover the beauty of Koasati Pines at Coushatta! Experience the 18-hole, par-72 championship layout with six sets of tees and a unique island-green “Gambling Hole”.

RESERVE YOUR TEE TIME ccrla.com | (337) 738-4777 Coushatta supports responsible gaming. Call 877-770-7867. Coushatta Casino Resort is owned and operated by the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana. 800-584-7263 | WWW.KOASATIPINES.COM

golf business

Whoosh!

There it IS!

Many successful partnerships felt like they were meant to be from the onset. That was certainly the case when Landscapes Golf Management chose Whoosh, Inc. to power its private clubs.

Landscapes operates more than 42

70 golf courses, country clubs and resorts across 25 states. With that many properties, they needed a reliable platform that could simplify daily operations, improve staff efficiency, and deliver a seamless experience to its members. In Whoosh they found exactly the provider they needed.

Whoosh is a leading provider of modern operations software for golf, racquet and hospitality facilities. They specialize in using technology to streamline operations and enhance the guest experience. Whoosh’s cloud-based, tablet-centric solution empowers public and private facilities with easy-touse booking and operations tools, covering a wide range of activities such as golf, racquets, simulators, lessons, fitness, and more. Whoosh’s modern software actually saves 20+ hours a week in staff time to help run a more efficient, guest-focused operation.

The fortuitous bond that brought Whoosh and Landscapes together was another innovative tech company called Lightspeed.

Landscapes used Lightspeed, a unified omnichannel platform, as their vendor for all club reservations, POS, and member management. So when Whoosh

decided this past June to partner with Lightspeed after conducting a full evaluation of the POS market, all the pieces fell into place. The result for Landscapes’ clubs is a fully connected ecosystem for tee times, pointof-sale, payments and other functions required for highperformance and profitability.

“Great software should be invisible to members and indispensable to staff,” said Colin Read, Whoosh CEO and CoFounder. “Landscapes’ decision to use Whoosh across its platform affirms our vision for modern club operations and sets a new standard for how multi-course operators streamline and elevate the member experience.”

Four of Landscapes clubs, Lost Rail Golf Club and Hillcrest Country Club in Nebraska, Lake Barrington Shores Golf Club in Illinois, and Dakota Dunes Country Club in South Dakota, served as early adopters by electing to roll out the Whoosh platform at their facilities before the partnership was even formalized. Now, with the partnership announced publicly, Whoosh and Landscapes will work together to introduce Whoosh to the other private clubs in their portfolio.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

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cuisine on the green

Clubs at St James Culinary Competition Winners Aaron McLaughlin and Ethan Warren

The Clubs At St. James Hosts Third Annual Chopped Event With Culinary Students From COAST The Clubs at St. James, in

partnership with Troon, proudly sponsored and hosted several talented students from COAST (Center of Applied Sciences and Technology) in nearby Bolivia, North Carolina, for the third annual St. James Chopped Event.

The competition proved to be a fun, hands-on opportunity for students to showcase their culinary skills and engage with the St. James community. Working under the guidance of Executive Chef Peter Holderied, the student

chefs demonstrated creativity, teamwork, and professionalism throughout the event.

This year’s competition featured eight COAST students who went head-to-head in the “A Taste of COAST Challenge,” preparing unique dishes for attending members to sample. Guests enjoyed tasting each team’s creations and casting their votes to determine the event’s champion.

The winners of the competition were Aaron McLaughlin and Ethan Warren featuring their Brisket Mac N Cheese Sundaes.

The evening celebrated not only culinary talent but also the dedication and hard work these students bring to their craft.

The Clubs at St. James and Troon were honored to support COAST’s Culinary Program, which provides students with handson training in a professional kitchen environment. The program emphasizes essential skills such as sanitation, menu planning, knife techniques, costing, and production, while also building important soft skills like teamwork, problem solving, and communication. Through strong partnerships with hospitality organizations, COAST continues to offer students valuable pathways to internships and future employment in the industry.

The event was a huge success, highlighting the next generation of culinary professionals and reaffirming The Clubs at St. James’ commitment to supporting educational programs that prepare students for rewarding careers in hospitality.

For more information on The Clubs at St. James Plantation, visit www.theclubsatstjames.com.

Clubs at St James Culinary Competition Winning Dish Brisket Mac N Cheese Sundaes 44

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

GREAT LAKES. GREAT GOLF.

Discover the beauty of Harbor Shores when you play the only Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Conveniently Located Where Northwest Indiana, Chicago and Lake Michigan Meet (269) 927-4653 | harborshoresresort.com/golf

GA Georgia PGA Georgia PGA Georgia PGA Georgia PGA Georgia PGA Georgia PGA Georgia P

A Storybook Ending:

Dan Merriman Wins Inaugural “The Drew” at East Lake Golf Club

By Sloan Aubrey

Dan & Dad, Paul Merriman

to the special nature of the day, Merriman’s father caddied for him, and the victory marked his first Georgia PGA Section event win.

The day was made even more special by the presence of Drew Dunn’s family and friends, including his wife, Lawrence Dunn, who were in attendance alongside the East Lake Golf Club staff, all of whom turned out in full support of Merriman and in celebration of Drew’s lasting impact.

After 18 holes of play, Chad Ferrell, Head PGA Professional at Cherokee Town & Country Club and Ian Trace, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Peachtree Golf Club led the field at evenpar, while Jeff Cammon, PGA Coaching Professional at Sea Island Golf Club and Merriman sat one shot back at 1-over par. Per the official format, the top four finishers (and ties) advanced to a

In a finish that felt written by fate, Dan Merriman, Head PGA Professional at East Lake Golf Club, captured the inaugural The Drew title and its $50,000 first-place prize, the largest single payout in Georgia PGA history, at East Lake, the very 46

club where Drew Dunn, PGA,

playoff on East Lake’s iconic 18th

once served as Director of Golf.

hole to determine the winner.

Of the 72 Georgia PGA

In the first playoff hole, both

Professionals invited, 62 competed

Merriman and Cammon birdied

in the elite field, but it was

to extend play. On the second

Merriman who ultimately lifted the

trip down 18, Merriman secured

trophy in a win that couldn’t have

victory with a par after Cammon’s

been scripted any better. Adding

bogey, earning his name as the Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

East Lake Staff & Merriman

first-ever champion of The Drew.

Golf Club. “To see Dan Merriman

have been more perfect,” said Jones.

“I can’t put into words how

win the inaugural The Drew, an

“After everything Drew’s family,

much this means to me, It still

event honoring our dear friend

friends, and the East Lake team have

really hasn’t hit me yet,” said

and former Director of Golf, Drew

been through, this was the ending

Merriman. “It’s like a movie

Dunn, was truly powerful. Dan’s

we all hoped for. You couldn’t script

script. I am so honored to be the

victory, with his father on the

it any better. To see Dan’s name

inaugural winner, and to do it

bag, captured everything Drew

as the first on The Drew trophy,

here with Drew’s family, friends,

stood for — family, heart, and an

that’s something truly special.”

and our entire East Lake team

unwavering love for the game. It was

watching means the world to me.”

a day that beautifully connected

the Georgia PGA and PGA REACH

As Merriman celebrated, it was

our past, present, and future.”

Georgia introduced The Drew Grant,

clear that his victory meant more

Philip Jones, who helped bring the

In conjunction with the event,

a fund supporting the professional

than a trophy, it was a tribute to

vision for The Drew to life, echoed

development of aspiring PGA

Drew and the community he built.

that sentiment, reflecting on the

Professionals in Georgia. This

“Today was one of those rare and

special meaning of the day. “When

annual grant will provide financial

special days that reminds us why

this vision started, we could only

assistance to those working toward

East Lake is such a meaningful

imagine what it might become —

PGA Membership, continuing

place,” said Chad Parker, President

and for it to end this way, with Dan

Drew’s legacy of mentorship

& General Manager at East Lake

winning at East Lake, it couldn’t

and service to others.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

47

orth florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA nort

Sandra Changkija, PGA and PGA of America Honorary President John Lindert, PGA

Sandra Changkija, PGA Makes History in Being the First Woman to Win the Assistant PGA Professional Championship!

The first woman to ever win the Assistant PGA Professional Championship came from the North Florida PGA. Sandra Changkija, PGA – Assistant

Sandra Changkija, PGA

Professional at Lake Nona Golf

was only one stroke. With a

& Country Club – accomplished

tight leaderboard, Sandra stayed

something no one else had in the

steady by making two birdies

49-year history of this event when

and one bogey on the front nine.

she captured the 2025 Assistant

She followed that up with one

PGA Professional Championship

birdie and two bogeys on the back

at PGA Golf Club – Dye Course!

nine. While other competitors

“I’ve worked really hard on

tried their best to take the lead,

my game, coming into the

they could not overtake Sandra.

Assistant PGA Professional

The lead that started at one in

Championship,” said Changkija.

the final round ended at five,

“And being that I work a full-

securing the historic victory.

time schedule, it’s hard to find

Sandra Changkija, PGA 48

Reflecting on what her victory

time to get in the amount of

means, Changkija said, “the

practice I want to get in.”

field is mostly men in these

Sandra carded rounds of 68-

national events, so it means

70-70-72 on the par 72 layout,

a lot that a female can win.”

finishing at 8-under par. Her

Congratulations to Sandra on

lead going into the final round

the history defining win!

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

The North Florida PGA Play Yellow Birdie Bash Raises Over $47,000!

On Monday, November 10th, the North Florida PGA brought together passion, purpose, and friendly competition at Alaqua Country Club for the Birdie Bash. In partnership with Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, the event welcomed 13 teams who teed it up for a cause, completing 54 holes of spirited play while showcasing how the game of golf can make a lasting difference.

Together, PGA Professionals and their partners made 236 birdies and helped raise over $47,000. These donations directly benefited pediatric patients and families at Orlando Health through the development of the new Children’s Care Pavilion, as well as Veterans participating in PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) North Florida.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

49

outh orth florida PGA north southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southflorida fl PGAPGA southnortfl

2025 SFPGA Hall of Fame Inductees Jack Shoenfelt, PGA and Karl Bublitz, PGA

SFPGA Hall of Fame members.

“I mean, to know my name is now there with Jack Nicklaus, Jim McLean, Bob Murphy, Bob Toski, and [former PGA of America CEO] Joe Steranka, wow,” Bublitz says as his voice trails off.

Achieving immortality within the second largest of the 41 PGA of America Sections is the ultimate byproduct of a career that Bublitz describes in its simplest form and with the highest of ideals.

“I’m a servant,” he says, “and we, as a team, do not fail. We’re not going to lose. The product and experience that we provide to our customers, will not be duplicated anywhere else. Their ROE, the

2025 SFPGA Hall of Fame Inductee– Jack Shoenfelt, PGA

behind the quiet manner is

If an individual’s life can be traced

work ethic forged long before he

not by the spotlight one seeks but

ever set foot in South Florida.

by the work they quietly shoulder,

The South Florida PGA is

a life in golf marked by grit, stewardship, mentorship, and a

then Jack Shoenfelt, PGA stands

honored to recognize Jack

as one of the true craftsmen

Shoenfelt as a member of the

of the South Florida PGA.

Hall of Fame not only as a Hall

Along with fellow Professional,

of Fame professional, but as a

Return on Experience for our customers, will not be beaten.”

That mantra of leadership has extended to his commitment to the SFPGA itself, with Bublitz serving as the Section’s President from 2019-21 and being named the 2012 SFPGA Golf Professional of the Year.

Bublitz, a PGA of America Member since 1995, is the

Karl Bublitz, Shoenfelt enters

Hall of Fame person. The kind

the South Florida PGA Hall of

of person who lifts up others

Fame as a member of the Class

without seeking credit, and builds

of 2025, joining a lineage of 51

a community by simply showing

others who helped shape the

assisting with the planning and

up, every day, with purpose.

identity, values, and excellence

development of the County’s

2025 SFPGA Hall of Fame Inductee– Karl Bublitz, PGA

first facility to feature sporting

of the Section. For someone who rarely sees himself as anything

PGA General Manager for the Collier Rod and Gun Club in Naples, Florida. He is currently

clays, archery, a trail system, and a championship 18-hole golf

but a “simple Midwestern

For a guy who once spent a

kid who worked hard,” the

summer of his youth moving

“I am so humbled,” Bublitz

recognition feels almost surreal.

sprinkler heads late into the

says. “You know, I love what I

“Oh, it was very humbling,”

night from one hole to another

do, and I want to do it for as

Shoenfelt said. “I called Karl and

at a course in his native St.

long as I can be helpful. Next

told him they must be running

Clair County, Michigan, there is

to having my children, it’s the

something almost surreal about

greatest honor of my life to be

sharing the spotlight with a

inducted into the South Florida

“who’s who” among the other 51

PGA Hall of Fame. This is it.”

out of ideas to have us in there.”

That humility is part of what makes Shoenfelt beloved. But 50

course, expected to open in 2028.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

LIFE SPECTACUL AR

BAHAMAR.COM

S e t o n a p r i s t i n e w h i t e s a n d b e ach, B aha Mar p e r f e c t l y b a l a n c e s a n a r ra y of spe ct acul ar e x p e r i e n c e s w i t h l u x u r i o u s rel ax at i on i n t he p u re C a r i b b e a n s u n s h i n e . E x qui si t e di ni ng experiences

f ro m

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che fs,

l u s h t ro p i c a l p o o l s , Th e B a h am as’ t op gol f c o u rs e , a n d o u r n e w 15 - a c re l ux ur y wat e r p a r k B a h a B a y a w ai t .

A LUXURY OF CHOICE

B A H A B AY WAT E R PA R K

I

C AS I N O

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R OYA L B L U E G O L F

I

4 5 + R E STA U R A N TS & LO U N G E S

I

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RESIDENCES

By Anthony L. Williams, CGCS, CGM, MG

A Turf Pirate's Journal $Winter Storms, Miracles, and Super Bowls $

The Turf Pirate Anthony L. Williams

Greetings Turf Pirates and

welcome to the Winter edition of A Turf Pirate’s Journal. Winter will arrive unwaveringly on time on December 21st, the shortest Daylight Day of the year or as some prefer, the Winter Solstice.

There are a few myths and legends that have credence around the golf turf world about the activities of venerated Turf Pirates and Golf Course Superintendent types during these colder months with precious little daylight to waste. It has been brought to my attention that during snow events in the south after clearing sidewalks and critical roads and cart paths that a mix of creative snow sled devises may have been used to break the sound barrier.

Due to some binding oaths I cannot name the course, but if you were in North Georgia in the 1980’s (or even the Blizzard of 1993) and I said, this mythical superintendent’s snow run began on the southside of #10 near the bunker and shot through the driving range and then #18 with a very good chance of you drowning in the lake at the end of the run.

IYKYK. Allegedly, I have a number of successful and unsuccessful runs to my credit. What I will say is: golf course and golf course maintenance crews change a bit when winter arrives and if you do not see much snow, it does have an impact on things that make life more interesting. This month’s picture you may have seen before is of #13 52

Stonemont at Stone Mountain Golf Club; the Nest Box and the snow are a special memory of my time there.

Sorry for the rant, now back to the regular scheduled programing.

Turf Pirates can certainly appreciate the winter project lists, the limited budget in December so we can make our numbers for the year etc., but there is a little more quiet around the shop during the holidays and we always had a Christmas Tree in every GCM shop at every stop. We also had a holiday year end thank you lunch that was a highlight for our teams. I am now a vintage Turf Pirate complete with Titanium Hip (I cannot confirm or deny sledding on a trash can lid contributed to the new joint being necessary), but when the first winter frosts and storms arrive, I am drawn to the memories of crews and missions from winter’s past. Many of those characters have passed on now and while I oversee 23 clubs and see many of the same traits in those crews as ours back in the day. I reflect a bit when I feel the cold wind or snow or see an old Polaroid picture (did I date myself) faded and dusty of winter Turf Pirates dressed in all their clothes (this is the pre GoreTex era children) shoveling and plowing snow in the deep south to make the club as safe as possible while protecting the green assets from harm. Do you remember January 30, 2000? A few of my Turf Pirate Crew buddies and I had been

on property for two days clearing snow and debris from the roads and paths. Atlanta was hosting the Superbowl (Rams verses Titans), and it was snowmagedon the day before and all across Georgia it was scary driving as there was still snow on the ground, but the Superbowl was great! Now the rest of the story, the boys were tired, and we still had the front sidewalks to shovel, and they had Superbowl parties on their mind. So, I let them go and kept on shoveling toward the resort entrance at a bit of a Zen pace as I recall. When I got to the entrance our General Manger stepped out and handed me two Superbowl Tickets and a Parking Pass, great job if you think you can make it to the game these are yours, thanks for the effort. My wife was waiting at the shop for me to finish and go home to watch the game. Only, we did not go home, we checked off a huge, unexpected bucket list item. We went to the Superbowl as fast as snow covered roads would allow, those tickets are still hanging in my office.

Winter has a certain magic for Turf Pirates, and it moves from event to event picking to bless or press the faithful.

This winter Turf Pirates be safe, take a few pictures and believe that something great could be right around the corner. Happy Holidays from The Ancient and Honorable Tribe of Turf Pirates.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

CELEBRATING

100 YEARS OF

EXCELLENCE

In 2026, the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America proudly marks 100 years of innovation, dedication, and growth for the golf course management industry. From humble beginnings to becoming a leader in the industry, our journey has been one of passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to our members.

COLONEL JOHN MORLEY CENTENNIAL CAMPAIGN

Donor Wall P laque

As we reflect on the past century, we are filled with gratitude for the incredibly loyal members, valued allied and industry partnerships, and talented team members who have helped shape our success. We have always been driven by a single mission:

“Dedicated to serving our members, advancing their profession, and improving communities through the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf.”

And we are just getting started!

Join us in celebrating this monumental achievement as we look back on a century of milestones and forward to the exciting possibilities ahead. Together, we have built something extraordinary — and the next 100 years are sure to be even more remarkable.

To support the Colonel John Morley Centennial Campaign, please donate to receive your personalized plaque on the plaza at GCSAA Headquarters.

The GCSAA Foundation has embarked on a Centennial fundraising campaign to establish a new endowment honoring GCSAA’s founder, Colonel John Morley, with a goal of raising $1 million to fund new and innovative initiatives for the next 100 years. Please consider supporting the Foundation in its mission to ensure the long-term sustainability of our industry.

Scan to donate, or call (800) 472-7878.

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April can mean snowballs instead of baseballs in Cleveland.

Photo by Paul Kiska

first pitch.” Snow covered the field and the seats. Temperatures were below freezing with a forecasted high of only 36 degrees.

Here’s How a MLB Grounds Crew Battles Snow Covered Turf on Opening Day!

By Paul Kiska

April weather in Florida brings

sunshine and temperatures around 80 degrees. Ideal conditions for golfing, but April weather in Cleveland is no picnic for golf nor baseball, especially when there’s spring snow in Northeast Ohio.

Florida golf courses mainly use Bermudagrass, because it recovers quickly from heat and sun, but most golf courses up north, and the MLB’s Cleveland Guardians, use Kentucky Bluegrass. It’s a strongly rooted, cool-season, sod forming grass that can also handle snow, yes…snow at the ballpark!

Groundskeeper Brandon Koehnke knew he and his 32-person crew had to work fast. The Guardians’ 2025 Home Opener was just eight hours away and the field looked more like January than April.

“The weather is the biggest challenge we face,” Koehnke says. “If we can get temps above freezing and the weather dries out, we can accomplish everything we need to do before Opening Day and sometimes before the

Grounds Crew Arms Itself With Leaft Blowers To Battle Snow!

The day before the first home game of the baseball season in Cleveland that April, the grounds crew was cutting grass, now, just a day later they were using leaf blowers to combat snow. While the Guardians were armed with great pitching that day, the grounds crew was armed with powerful leaf blowers to blow snow off of the outfield grass and off of the seats.

Before the first pitch at Progressive Field that day, Koehnke and his crew’s hard work paid off; despite curve balls thrown at them by Mother Nature. As the sun broke through the clouds that afternoon, a sellout crowd of 34,830 fans roared with excitement. They could’ve easily been cheering for the grounds crew. The field now looked like the lush green grass of June and the seats were

Grounds Crews Are The Real Heroes!

It’s the grounds crews who are the real heroes who maintain great looking turf, whether it’s in the intense Florida heat or in the Great Lakes, where cities like Cleveland are located along the scenic shores of Lake Erie.

The Heat Is On And So Is The Snow!

As snow swept in from Canada just 50 miles over Lake Erie to Cleveland and the temperature dropped to a bone-chilling 28 degrees, Cleveland Guardians Head 54

Photo Courtesy of Russell Verlinger Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

cleared of every snowflake as the Guardians defeated the Chicago White Sox by a score of 1-0.

There's No Place Like Home, But...

The Cleveland Guardians had scheduled 11 consecutive games at home, an unusual schedule, putting extra heat on the grounds crew. “It was a very long homestand,” Koehnke says.

“Pre-homestand preparation is critical. Everything from proper fertilization to clay management ensures success. Days are long, sometimes 15 hours, and it takes two days after a long homestand for your body to recover.”

Things Can Get Squirrelly It really is a case of “peanuts, get your peanuts!” “Squirrels are always the biggest concern when it comes to wildlife. “We have beautiful oak trees beyond the outfield fence and around the ballpark, so the little critters like to bury the oak nuts and peanuts, creating holes in the outfield,” Koehnke says.

Concerts Ending on a High Note Going from gameday to a major concert takes a massive transformation of Progressive Field and Koehnke’s team needs to move quickly. “The fastest concert turnaround we had was in 2023,” says Koehnke. “We had removed 30,000 square feet of left field sod for a stage to be built. In 29 hours, we had the entire area re-sodded just in time for a game to be played on it.”

Rakes, Brooms and Water Give the Clay Some TLC Baseball fans who appreciate Some years, April snow makes it tough for Cleveland to play at home. Photo by Paul Kiska

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

Photo Courtesy of Russell Verlinger the nuances of the game find it satisfying when the grounds crew perform in sync, like the Cleveland Orchestra, as the crew rakes the clay infield dirt meticulously.

“Raking between innings of the game helps to keep the infield free of cleat divots that occur in the clay, we use rakes and large, drag brooms.” Koehnke says, “We only water the infield in pre-game, and we do not water in between innings now, but we do water the infield clay throughout the day to keep it soft and moist.”

Grounds Crew Plays Its Own Game During the Ballgame Koehnke says keeping a Major League Stadium’s grass and clay in tip-top shape can be hard work,

but they signed up for it, and they love it. So, to jazz it up for the crew and to pepper in some fun, they have a tradition twice during the game. “After the third and sixth inning of dragging the clay infield, we play our own game,” he says. “We all try to throw our hats onto a U-hook that’s mounted on the wall outside our shop. It’s extremely difficult, but fun to win!”

Behind-the-Scenes Facts Koehnke says the grounds crew practices tarp rollouts and rollups for safety and to expedite restarting the game after a rain delay as quickly as possible. “We have to work fast.

The Underground drainage pipes run every 20 feet across the field, and the field is designed to drain 13 inches of water per hour.”

Lake Effect Snow Delivers Challenges “April weather is always the worst possible in Cleveland,” Koehnke says. “April weather in Northeast Ohio changes on a minute-by-minute basis, we must always prepare for the worstcase scenario, and fall baseball can be similar.” The Cleveland Guardians’ grounds crew always brings its A-game. “Words can’t describe how rewarding it is to have a great grounds crew, beautiful results on the field, and Cleveland fans who appreciate hard work,” Koehnke says.

55

1997 PGA Championship, and Joe at Westchester Country Club in Rye, N.Y., where he hosted 17 PGA Tour events and the 2011 Senior Players Championship.

In addition to their long careers at high-profile golf courses, the Alonzi brothers are also renowned for their willingness to give back to the industry and for mentoring many younger golf course management professionals who worked under them over the years.

They were born in Picinisco, Italy, and moved to the United States when Bob Alonzi was 12 and Joe Alonzi was 6. Their introduction to the golf world

Joe (L), Bob (R) Alonzi

Bob and Joe Alonzi win GCSAA’s 2026 Col. John Morley Award Brothers Bob and Joe Alonzi, both members of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), have been named recipients of the association’s 2026 Col. John Morley Award. They will be formally recognized on Feb. 3 during the Opening Session at the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in Orlando.

The award, named after GCSAA’s founder, was elevated to GCSAA’s pinnacle level alongside the Old Tom Morris Award in 2021 and is presented annually to an individual who is, or has been, a GCSAA Class A or B superintendent member and has 56

made a significant contribution to the advancement of the golf course superintendent’s profession. The Old Tom Morris Award is presented to those outside GCSAA membership who have helped mold the welfare of the game. The Alonzis’ win is the first time the Morley Award has been given to a set of brothers.

Both Bob Alonzi, a 55-year GCSAA member, and Joe Alonzi, a 50-year GCSAA member, are retired Certified Golf Course Superintendents (CGCS). They each had long careers at famed golf courses in the Northeast.

Bob at Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, N.Y., where he hosted the 1984 U.S. Open and

came as teenagers, when each worked as a caddie at Taramack Country Club in Greenwich, Conn.

“Throughout their careers, Bob and Joe raised the bar for the profession both in how they maintained the courses under their care and how they helped the development of so many others who crossed their paths,” said GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans.

“While they are most known for their work in the Northeast, their impact and the network of superintendents they mentored has made a difference around the country. We often speak of GCSAA as a family, and Bob and Joe have lived that on so many levels.”

Bob Alonzi was the first brother to make golf course management his profession. After graduating from Rutgers University and serving in the U.S. Army, Bob Alonzi worked as a foreman at Taramack before landing his first superintendent job at Rye (N.Y.) Golf Club in 1967. He did stints at Burning Tree Country Club and Fairview Country Club before he replaced legendary superintendent Sherwood Moore at Winged Foot in 1984. He left Winged Foot in 1999 for Fenway Golf Club in Scarsdale, N.Y., and retired from there in 2011.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

“Hopefully, my legacy will be that I was just a guy who had great opportunities,” Bob Alonzi said. “I shared everything I experienced. I tried to contribute to research. I think we’re all just one big family. This is the best profession in the world, and we’re all working toward a goal of perfection. It’s not achievable, but you’re always striving for it.

I just tried to be approachable. I value the hundreds of friends I made in the industry. There’s a lot of unity there, and we all share.”

Joe Alonzi took a less traditional route to the superintendent profession. He earned a degree in electrical engineering from RCA Institute of Technology in 1971, and his first job was working on the radar system for the F-111 jet.

Joe Alonzi yearned to work outside, so Bob Alonzi, who was by then superintendent at Burning Tree,

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

added Joe to his crew. Joe graduated from the Rutgers turfgrass program in 1973. A year later, he was hired as head superintendent at the Huntington Crescent Club in Huntington, N.Y. Joe Alonzi's career took him to Fenway GC in 1984, and then on to Westchester CC eight years later. He retired from Westchester in 2015.

They followed a similar path of service to the industry. Both brothers were highly engaged in the Metropolitan Golf Course Superintendents Association.

Each Alonzi served on the GCSAAaffiliated chapter’s board and as its president. Each earned the MetGCSA’s Sherwood A. Moore Award — Bob Alonzi in 1991 and Joe Alonzi nine years later.

The family legacy carries on through their sons. Robert B. Alonzi is a 33-year GCSAA member who succeeded his father, Bob Alonzi,

as superintendent at Fenway GC in 2011 and remains there. Joe Alonzi’s son, Christopher, is the superintendent at The Summit Club at Armonk (N.Y.). The Alonzi brothers’ legacy also includes the many crew members who worked under them who eventually made a career in the industry.

“Way too many to count,” Joe Alonzi said. “I’m so proud of all those superintendents out there who worked for me at one point or another. I take that as one of my greatest contributions to the industry. That’s how I’ve tried to give back to the industry, whether they learned from me how to do it right or how not to do it. That’s great, as long as they learned something from me.”

Read more about the Alonzi brothers in the December issue of GCM magazine: GCMonline.com.

57

Mark Kann (second from left) with some of the Sod Solutions team at the 2025 FTGA Annual Meeting.

Mark Kann Elected FTGA President

By Cecilia Johnson Photos by Krista Browning Photography

Sod Solutions Director of Florida

Operations Mark Kann was elected President of the Florida Turfgrass Association (FTGA) during the annual conference held at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala.

Kann, who joined Sod Solutions in 2021, brings three decades of experience spanning golf course management, university research and industry leadership. His new role marks what he calls ‘a full circle moment’ in his career. “I’ve always loved serving and helping others and it’s just another chance to do that,” he said. “Being voted in shows the confidence my colleagues in this industry have in me to run this organization and that’s humbling. I’m ready to go.”

58

A Career Rooted in Service Kann’s path through the turfgrass industry began on golf courses across Florida, where he served as both superintendent and assistant superintendent before spending 14 years managing the turf research facility at the University of Florida’s Plant Science Research and Education Unit in Citra. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Turfgrass Science and a Master of Science in Horticultural Sciences from UF. He has held leadership roles across multiple allied associations, including serving as president of both the Florida Golf Course Superintendents Association (Florida GCSA) and the Seven Rivers Golf Course

Superintendents Association.

He also chaired the FGCSA Education and BMP Committee for nearly a decade, where he helped develop the association’s nationally recognized Golf BMP Certification Program.

In his current role with Sod Solutions, Kann works closely with superintendents, turf managers, sod producers and landscapers across the state. This ongoing connection to every segment of the industry makes his role as FTGA president a natural fit. “We service all these different segments by providing grass and working with Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

them, so it fits really easily for me.

I love the industry and this just feels like another way to serve it.”

Continuing the Work As president, Kann plans to build on the association’s existing momentum while focusing on collaboration and unity. He emphasized the FTGA’s role in education, research and advocacy.

“We support all segments of the industry,” he said. “We provide quality education and have a great relationship with the University of Florida, which gives us access to top researchers and resources.”

The association will continue prioritizing research that addresses real challenges for Florida turfgrass

multiple industry sectors.

Serving his second stint on the FTGA Board, Kann said he’s encouraged by the board’s energy and commitment. He credited much of the association’s success to the hard work of FTGA Association Manager Heather Russo, the Executive Committee and Immediate Past President Eric Dixon for their leadership and dedication to the organization. “The challenge with any association is that everyone involved has full-time jobs and families,” he said. “I’m inspired by how much time people still give to this organization. Every bit of effort matters, and I want to keep that momentum going.”

it all starts as business colleagues that lead to industry family,” Russo said. “Not only has Mark been instrumental as a director on the board, but he has also been a true friend as he has been there for me through a family crisis, to make my new home have an incredible front yard and to witnessing him help others. This industry is a blessing and it is wonderful to have Mark in this industry.

One Unified Voice and Leading Forward A key focus for Kann’s presidency will be uniting turfgrass professionals across golf, sports, landscape and sod sectors under

Mark Kann speaking at the 2025 UF IFAS Field Day.

professionals, including projects that improve environmental stewardship, support best management practices and guide policy decisions with science. Kann also pointed to the importance of raising funds for the Florida Turfgrass Research Foundation, which provides student scholarships and supports research benefiting Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

Russo said she looks forward to Kann serving as FTGA president, noting his long tenure in the industry and the strong relationships he brings. She added that, like many past presidents, Kann has a passion for industry unity and will continue to grow the association through those connections. “Through this industry,

one statewide voice while also investing in the next generation of leaders. “The more allied associations we can partner with, the more successful we will be,” he said. “We’ve heard time and time again from the Commissioner of Agriculture that they want Florida coming to Tallahassee as a unified turfgrass industry. That’s how 59

Mark Kann accepts his position as FTGA President and speaks during the annual luncheon meeting.

we ensure our voice is heard.”

He believes collaboration doesn’t require full agreement. “Even if we don’t agree on everything, we can work together on shared goals to make the industry stronger.”

He acknowledged that water use, fertilizer and regulatory pressures will always challenge the industry but believes the path forward depends on science and stewardship.

“We’ve spent years building Best Management Practices programs to work with the state and show our commitment to doing things 60

right. Significant time, money and effort have gone into this research, much of it through the University of Florida, and it deserves to be heard.

The science exists for a reason.”

He finds it inspiring how proactive the industry is when issues arise, always looking for ways to educate the public and find solutions together, and credits the many mentors and colleagues who have shaped his approach to leadership over the years. “I’ve covered a lot of ground in this industry and learned from so many good people,” he said.

“I don’t have all the answers, but I’ll always find someone who does.

That’s how I try to live and lead.”

He said he values the exchange of ideas and experience within the turfgrass community. “I always tell people I have as much time for you as you have for me.

There’s so much wisdom in this industry, and I never want to miss the chance to learn from it.”

Looking ahead, Kann also wants to engage more students and young professionals. This year, the FTGA partnered with the Florida GCSA, the Florida Nursery Growers (FNGLA), the Florida Future Farmers of America Association and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) to launch a new mentorship program pairing high school participants with superintendents across the state. Students will form cohorts to gain hands-on management experience ahead of a statewide competition at the 2026 GCSAA Conference in Orlando. “That’s a big initiative because we need more leaders and future leaders in every segment of this industry,” Kann said. “It’s inspiring to see the number of schools already wanting to get involved.”

Driving Engagement and Growth The recent fall Florida Turfgrass Conference, which grew from about 300 attendees last year to nearly 500 this year, was driven by partnering with UF and the CFSTMA to combine the Citra Field Day with the event. Kann thanked everyone who helped make the two and a half days in Ocala a success and encouraged members to stay engaged and take part in shaping the organization’s future.

Kann said the FTGA’s strength lies in the sheer scope of the industry it represents. “The FTGA looks at the industry from a broad spectrum.

When you look at the number of golf courses, sports fields, sod farms and landscaped acres compared to other states, no one even comes close to what we have here. I think we should be the strongest organization in the country. It’s just a matter of pulling everybody together.” He said he’s optimistic about the future and proud to represent such a strong, diverse industry. Visit FTGA.org to learn more or get involved.

Golf Central • Volume 26, Issue 9

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CHANGING LIVES THROUGH THE GAME OF GOLF

Patriot Golf Day® has become the largest grass-roots golf fundraiser in America – a joint initiative of The PGA of America and the USGA, Patriot Golf Day enlists the support of public and private golf facilities across the country. Funds support Folds of Honor, providing educational scholarships to the children and spouses of service members killed or disabled while serving in America’s Armed Forces.

GET INVOLVED Although the national promotion of Patriot Golf Day is over Labor Day weekend, you can play golf any time of the year to support the families of our fallen and disabled service members. Here are a few ways to get involved.

HOST AN

EVENT CONDUCT A GOLF

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LEARN MORE AT PATRIOTGOLFDAY.ORG

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Vice President of ShotLink, PGA TOUR

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