OTL PHX Fall Issue 2022

LA CANTERA RESORT & SPA Singularly Sensational TEXAS HILL COUNTRY

GRAND CANYON SOUTH RIM

FABULOUS FIJI

THE AMERICANO RESTAURANT

Volume 1, Issue 5

FEATURES

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FIJI The South Pacific is littered with tropical islands, each with their own distinct character. Fiji makes you feel welcome. S. Laird

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THE AMERICANO RESTAURANT Celebrity chef Scott Conant is behind one of Scottsdale’s most popular restaurants, The Americano. Posh setting, creative cocktails and stellar cuisine make it a can’t miss. T. Traverse

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THE GRAND CANYON Relief from the heat to a cool Autumn retreat. Grand Canyon’s South Rim provides the natural beauty, adventure and even luxurious accommodations that you may not expect to find at a national park. K. Soltas

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ADOBE COURSE AT ARIZONA BALTIMORE Classic and timeless venue. You can can look into the past to see how golf was meant to be played with the fresh vibe ot today. C.Mickelson

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LA CANTERA RESORT The gently winding, finely landscaped drive from the front gate of La Cantera Resort & Spa, you see flirtatious glimpses of the nearby elevation often called “the starting point of the Texas Hill Country.” M. Hall

56 LA CANTERA RESORT & SPA Singularly Sensational TEXAS HILL COUNTRY

GRAND CANYON SOUTH RIM

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FABULOUS FIJI

THE AMERICANO RESTAURANT

ON THE COVER Change your scenary with a trip to the Texas Hill Country. The perfect place to be pampered.

Contents COLUMNS 18

FITNESS Staying fit with a busy lifestyle doesn’t necessarily mean working harder, but smarter.

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BUCKS TIPS The Dreaded Slice, we discussed how the set-up could influence why golfers slice the ball, part 2 of correcting your slice.

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YOGA How to get ready for your next round of golf. Yoga can be the key to unlock your golf game.

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EQUIPMENT When it comes to club fitting, golfers seemingly have endless choices, Luckily PXG chose us.

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PUTT FOR DOUGH Saving for retirement and a child’s education at the same time.

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TRAVEL Island Resort and Casino. Visit Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for a fantastic getaway.

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DRIVE FOR SHOW If its exclusivity you are looking for then the 2022 BMW Alpina B7 may be the answer to your desires.

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WINE Pairing food with the proper wine is a timeless tradition, a unity of two luxurious aspects of culture and pleasure.

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GOLF TECH GolfForever can help extend the quality of your game. Improve your body and a better game is possible.

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CIGAR Aging a cigar. Like wine, many cigar aficionados swear by the process of aging.

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From the Publisher There’s something about fall. Spring is known for hope and starting anew but fall ushers in change with a different vibe. You can feel fall in the air. The heat is waning. Fall encourages movement. We have most assuredly endured one of the hottest summers on record. With an extended arm, we waive a big farewell to this historical heat and welcome the cooler weather. Dare we use the term autumn foliage?

It’s time for football. Fridays mean high school lights are on with packed stands, fields, and stadiums. Saturdays, deliver unforgettable college football, and Sundays, it’s the NFL. I finally got a chance to play my new PXG GEN5 clubs.

When I was in Scottsdale, they invited me to their fantastic facility for a custom fitting. It was an amazing experience.

You can read more about it in the fitting story in this issue with Mike Bailey. The clubs were shipped to me quickly. As soon as they came in, I unboxed them. It truly was Christmas in July. They sent me everything - irons, woods, driver, wedges, putter, and bag. I placed everything in its proper place and put them in a special spot in the house where they sat there for well over a month.

They were so beautiful; I didn’t want to ruin them by playing with them. It became an ongoing joke. This guy has the best clubs money can buy and he won’t hit them. It’s like being given a Bugatti and not driving it. The clubs gave me so much joy just knowing I had them. This was a unique experience for me. Typically, when I get a new set of clubs or anything, I use them to work immediately, but this felt different. I wanted to savor them. I get out to the course to try them out. They felt great, played great, and looked even

better. Such a great company. If you get the chance or better yet, make the chance and go try them out for yourself.

The staff and the service are equal to the product.

On the note of playing golf, I have continued to try to do more things now instead of procrastinating. It’s a message that I have been encouraging those around me to do.

I played in a golf tournament earlier this year with my 90-year-old cousin, Rudy Chambers. He was a delight and if you follow us on social media, you may have seen the photos we posted. You won’t find a more vibrant, joyful, and charming man anywhere. He was center stage at the event. Everyone came over to him and asked him his secret to a long life. It was my first time playing with him and it was one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve had on the golf course.

Before we teed off, Rudy offered me a gift of a golden golf ball. I said thanks and placed it in my bag. I love to play golf, but I’m not the type of person to collect trinkets or things that I associate with golf. What I didn’t know at the time was that this was going to be my first and last round of golf with Rudy.

To the shock of so many, Rudy passed away a few weeks later. While we were surprised and saddened, we couldn’t help but look at his life and not his death. Ninety years is a full, productive, well-lived life. Sure enough, while attending his funeral, he wanted one song played - which he mentioned while we were playing golf, “My Way,” by Frank Sinatra. I salute you, Rudy Chambers. As a tribute to your life, I will hold on to the golden golf ball as long as I can, and hopefully, I will be able to pass it on.

We don’t have all the time in the world. We have limited opportunities to do things. Do as much as you can while you can. Take a drive to a place you’ve wanted to visit.

Take a fight to a new destination. Call an old friend that you haven’t talked to in a long time. Eat new foods. It’s okay if you don’t like it. Life is about creating new memories and moments to cherish.

I dedicate this issue to Rhudof “Rudy” Chambers.

Sedric Walker • Publisher

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WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS & SUNDAYS 5-9PM FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS 5-10PM

J&G STEAKHOUSE AT THE PHOENICIAN 6000 E. Camelback Road | Scottsdale, Az 85251 480.214.8000 jgsteakhousescottsdale.com

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PUBLISHER Sedric Walker

GOLF FEATURES EDITOR Carl Mickelson

ART DIRECTOR Leticia Galarza

TEACHING PROFESSIONAL Buck Mayers

FEATURES EDITOR Richard Arebalo

PHOTOGRAPHERS Kevin Chin

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mike Bailey, Teresa K. Traverse, Scott Laird, Jason Hill Allison Loots, Leslie Stevenson, Art Stricklin, Nicole Pinter, Hunter Ham, Marc Hall

INTERNET & DIGITAL Mario Rossi

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Advertising rates furnished upon request. Advertisers warrant and represent that the descriptions and depictions of the products or services advertised are true in all respects. All advertising is subject to approval before acceptance. OTL reserves the right to refuse any ad for anyreason whatsoever. ©2022

by OTL. All rights reserved throughout the world. Reproduction in whole or part without the express written consent of OTL is strictly prohibited. Editorial queries and manuscripts should be directed to the editor via email, editor@otlgolf.com. All letters and their contents sent to OTL are sole property of OTL and may be used, printed, and published in any matter whatsoever without limit, obligation and liability to the author thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and artists and not necessarily those of OTL or its advertisers. Manuscripts should be accompanied by self-addressed, stamped envelopes. OTL assumes no responsibility or liability for the return of unsolicited artwork, manuscripts or pictures. Printed in the USA.

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FIJI Fiji is a Feeling

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STORY BY SCOTT LAIRD

The South Pacific is littered with tropical islands, each with their own distinct character. Fiji, nestled among several other island groups, could best be described as a feeling. Shortly after arrival, after multiple warm “Bula!” greetings, a number of heartfelt songs, and a curious habit of remembering your name forever once they’ve heard it once, the people of this small nation seem to create among visitors an entirely novel sense of welcome.

PHOTOS BY SCOTT LAIRD

Nanuku Resort’s Private Island .

Sunset on Denarau Island.

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T

o get to Fiji, North American travelers can depart from Fiji Airways gateways in Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Vancouver, or travel via New Zealand or Australia. Nonstop flights from the U.S. West Coast are just over ten hours. International flights arrive at the international airport at Nadi on the country’s largest island, Viti Levu.

Many travelers are destined for the nearby resort area of Denarau Island, or to one of the luxury resorts on various islets.

American and Canadian travelers can enter Fiji without a visa for short stays for touristic purposes. Vehicles are right hand drive, and are driven on the left side of the road.

Set on the island’s south coast near Pacific Harbour, Nanuku Resort offers travelers a number of residentialstyle accommodation options. Well-appointed villa accommodations in a contemporary style are available in one- or two-bedroom layouts, with full residential facilities including kitchen, washer and dryer and outdoor plunge pool—ideal for groups traveling together. Villas can also be combined to create individual compounds

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of multiple housing units.

The resort’s residences are designed in a more traditional thatched-roof island style, but with similarly convivial layouts that can be combined to include up to six bedrooms in a single unit. As a charming and distinctive amenity, guests will find a personalized welcome spelled out in pebbles on the bottom of their private plunge pools.

While on the resort, the staff can arrange a number of experiences, from picnics or overnight campouts on their own private island, to learning how to cook shrimp with peppers and coconut milk in a bamboo shoot on an open fire, or children’s activities in the resort’s expansive and well-equipped kid’s club. Parents wanting to explore on their own can leave their children in the care of a dedicated nanny—included in the rate.

There’s also a helipad and airstrip on property, so guests can arrange to chopper over to the Vijay Singhdesigned Natadola Bay course for a round of golf. The resort can also arrange transfers from Nadi by small aircraft or helicopter for guests who prefer a faster con-

destination

Wainibau Waterfall at the end of Lavena Coastal Walk on Taveuni Island, Fiji. Taveuni is the third largest island in Fiji.

nection from the airport than the 90-minute overland transfer, although the drive through Viti Levu’s rolling green hills the morning after a long overnight flight is something of a tonic.

In the nearby Mamanuca Islands, the private VOMO Island is home to a spectacular luxury resort with white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and a number of villa and residence accommodations.

VOMO Island is a mostly-inclusive resort, including all meals, non-alcoholic beverages, and daily wash-andfold laundry services in room rates. Residence accommodations are entire beachfront homes for different sized groups, which also include butler service, and the option to have meals served in the dining room of the residence.

VOMO Island also does a good job of bringing families together and offering separate activities when they wish. The resort maintains a separate restaurant for adult guests, an all-ages restaurant, and the kid’s club even has its own separate dining facilities.

When it comes to activities, the island may be a

resort unto itself, but it’s still large enough for a ninehole pitch-and-putt golf course. Guests can also fill their days with yoga, sport fishing, trekking on the island, motorized or non-motorized water sports just off the beach, tennis, or exploring under water just minutes away from the resort with the aid of the resort’s PADI dive center.

Perhaps the most “turnkey” resort experience in Fiji, without the length transfers to another island are on Denarau Island, just 30 minutes from Nadi International Airport. With several sprawling resorts belonging to global hotel brands including Hilton, Sheraton, and Westin, this is where guests can come to enjoy both Fijian service with the backup of a familiar hospitality brand, and also easy access to plenty of daily excursions and activities, many of which depart from the on-island Port Denarau.

The new Sabre Catamaran, operated by South Sea Sailing, departs daily for a quick crossing to the Mamanuca Islands, where it anchors off a snorkeling spot, and a sandbar that slowly disappears back into the seat by the time it’s time to leave. Travelers wade

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Sunset, Sheraton Fiji Resort. from the catamaran onto the sandbar, where one of the crew has swum over with a cooler of cold drinks, to crack one open and enjoy their own private sandy beach with 360-degree views of the sparkling waters around.

Another popular excursion from Port Denarau is to Seventh Heaven, a floating restaurant and spa with two stories of sun loungers. Guests take a day boat from Port Denarau in the morning, and then spend the day on another sort of private island—a floating one where travelers can slip right into the ocean for swimming or snorkeling throughout the day.

If Viti Levu and the Mamanuca Islands weren’t laid back enough, the northern island of Vanua Levu is even more tranquil. There, the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort sits on a point that was once the site of a coconut plantation. Guests luxuriate in oceanfront bures (huts), and take in what is known as some of the country’s best snorkeling and diving in the even more secluded environs of Savu Savu.

The Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort pioneered eco-friendly practices under the direction its namesake oceanographer, and continues to innovate.

The resort recently expanded their on-site garden, which stocks much of the produce in the restaurant kitchens on property. This is vital to further reducing the resort’s carbon footprint by transitioning away from dependence on imported food.

Understandably, there’s a focus on conserva-

Young woman walking on suspension bridge over Wainibau stream, Lavena Coastal Walk, Taveuni Island, Fiji.

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PHOTO BY SCOTT LAIRD

tion at the resort, and guests are welcome to join the resort’s resident marine biologist on health assessments on the reefs around the resort, to learn about coral health and its vital role in preserving healthy oceans. The resort’s snorkel programs are also strongly influenced by conservation and education, under the care of the marine biologist.

North American travelers should note that Fiji is west of the International Date Line, so southbound overnight flights typically arrive two calendar days after the departure date. Return flights depart in the evening, and actually arrive back in North America in the morning of the same day, giving travelers the curious illusion of having lived the same day twice.

English is one of Fiji’s three official languages (the others are Fijian and Hindi). While Fijian is the most common, English is also widely spoken, particularly among hospitality workers. The majority of the country’s inbound tourism comes from Australia and New Zealand, so North American travelers may also notice menus and other service aspects are distinctively tailored for that market. Australian English words (such as “capsicum” for “bell pepper”) are also prevalent on signage and menus.

That immense welcome travelers get in Fiji makes it difficult to leave, but this charming country of more than 300 islands makes for plenty of territory for visitors who depart eager to return once again to offer their new friends a warm and friendly “Bula!”

Simplicity STORY BY LESLIE SOSA

Life gets busy and it’s not always optimal to carve out an hour or more in the gym. Staying fit with a busy lifestyle doesn’t necessarily mean working harder, but smarter. By super setting your exercises, doing a HIIT routine or combining several muscle groups into one exercise can help you save time and still get in a full workout. This exercise targets legs, glutes, shoulders, core, and cardio all in one simple move.

OTLPHX / FITNESS

Set up for the Plie Squat by placing your feet double hip width apart and turn your toes to a 45-degree angle, with the dumbbell or plate above your head, keeping your chest lifted and shoulders open.

To increase difficulty, come onto the balls of your feet instead of having your feet flat on the ground. As you squat, keep your abs tight, and be sure your shoulders stay above your hips, not leaning forward. Allow your knees to follow the line of your toes, if they cave in, that could lead to injury.

Pause at the bottom as if you were sitting in a chair, keeping your core engaged.

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Depending on if you are on the balls of your feet or have your heels on the floor, you will work different muscles. If you choose to keep your heels on the floor, as you rise, drive through the heels, squeezing your glutes and quads once you are back to your starting position. If you are up for a challenge and are on the balls of your feet, you will feel work in the calves and hamstrings as well.

This exercise targets multiple muscle groups in one simple move as well as provides a quick burst of cardio. If the cardio is too much, instead of having the weight over your head, hold it at your chest. Anytime your hands are above your heart, it will increase your heart rate. Weight is optional for this exercise as well, however, try using 25 percent of your bodyweight and do five sets with 10-15 repetitions.

Next time you find yourself overwhelmed by a hectic schedule or limited equipment on vacation, try combining muscle groups to save time and complexity, and remember to work smarter, not harder.

How To Get Ready For Your Next Round of Golf Ever thought about yoga as a way to improve your golf game?

STORY BY NICOLE PINTER

Not only does it help your concentration skills, but it also helps you to play longer and pain-free.

Golf is an athletic sport that is both physically and mentally demanding. Specific yoga practice improves flexibility, muscular strength, and mobility and is also an excellent way to warm up the body before a round of

golf. Warming up for any sport should be dynamic so the body builds core heat which helps warm the muscles.

To prepare your body for a round of golf a short yoga routine you can use to stretch out, warm up, reduce injury and gain focus. Play more effectively and prepare not just the body but mind for a great round of golf.

OTLPHX / YOGA

Pre-Golf Warm-up routine

Try these poses before you hit the golf course to warm up and get ready to play. If your body is warmed up and you hit the ball more effortlessly it will also boost your confidence before a round. Play Better, Stronger, longer!

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yoga

Balance

Increase hip mobility in your golf swing

One of the important aspects of playing good golf is mobility. You want to have long, elastic, and powerful muscles that can transfer energy efficiently throughout the swing. Therefore, yoga for golfers is a great way to develop strength and flexibility and mobility which helps improve the swing.

Stability is the ability to sustain balance in different areas of the body and remain in balance while different body parts are moving. Yoga will help improve your dynamic balance (balance in motion).

MENTAL WARM-UP for golf Any exercise will help you improve your golf game, but yoga is the only one that will also help your mental game.

Without a strong mental game, even the most physically capable golfers will find themselves underperforming at the tee. Before a round has a few minutes of breathing exercise to get present and release any expectation of how you are going to play that day. A good breathing

technique for golf is the best way to regulate your heart rate and feel more relaxed too. Avoid being hard on yourself and trust your efforts and the process. Spend a couple of minutes thinking about the things you are grateful for in what you are about to do, no matter how you play.

I highly recommend making 10–15-minute meditation a regular daily exercise but this is a great start!

Regardless of age, physical state, or flexibility, Yoga for golfers offers the tools to begin, maintain, and advance one’s yoga practice to achieve results both on and off the golf course. Golf is a body-mind sport, so it requires physical and mental training.

Start your yoga for golfer lessons today and visit our website for more details. www.nicolegolf.com

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STORY BY AUSTIN ASSET You want to retire comfortably when the time comes. You also want to help your child go to college. So how do you juggle the two? The truth is, saving for your retirement and your child’s education at the same time can be a challenge.

But take heart — you may be able to reach both goals if you

make some smart choices now.

Know what your financial needs are The first step is to determine your financial needs for each goal. Answering the following questions can help you get started:

For retirement:

OTLPHX / PUTT FOR DOUGH

• How many years until you retire?

• Does your company offer an employersponsored retirement plan or a pension plan?

Do you participate? If so, what’s your balance? Can you estimate what your balance will be when you retire?

• How much do you expect to receive in Social Security benefits? (One way to get an estimate of your future Social Security benefits is to use the benefit calculators available on the Social Security Administration’s website, www.ssa.gov. You can also sign up for a My Social Security account so that you can view your online Social Security Statement.

Your statement contains a detailed record of your earnings, as well as estimates of retirement, survivor’s, and disability benefits.)

• What standard of living do you hope to have in retirement? For example, do you want to travel extensively, or will you be happy to stay in one place and live more simply?

• Do you or your spouse expect to work part-time in retirement?

For college: • How many years until your child starts college?

• Will your child attend a public or private college? What’s the expected cost?

• Do you have more than one child whom you’ll be saving for?

• Does your child have any special academic, athletic, or artistic skills that could lead to a scholarship?

• Do you expect your child to qualify for financial aid?

• Do you plan to cover the entire cost, or would you like the child to bear some of the responsibility?

Many on-line calculators are available to help you predict your retirement income needs and your child’s college funding needs.

Figure out what you can afford to put aside each month After you know what your financial needs are, the next step is to determine what you can afford to put aside each month. To do so, you’ll need to prepare a detailed family budget that lists all of your income and expenses. Keep in mind, though, that the amount you can afford may change from time to time as your circumstances change. Once you’ve come up with a dollar amount, you’ll need to decide how to divvy up your funds.

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putt for dough

Retirement takes priority Though college is certainly an important goal, you should probably focus on your retirement if you have limited funds. With generous corporate pensions mostly a thing of the past, the burden is primarily on you to fund your retirement. But if you wait until your child is in college to start saving, you’ll miss out on years of potential tax-deferred growth and compounding of your money. Remember, your child can always attend college by taking out loans (or maybe even with scholarships), but there’s no such thing as a retirement loan.

If possible, save for your retirement and your child’s college at the same time Ideally, you’ll want to try to pursue both goals at the same time.

The more money you can save for college bills now, the less money you or your child will need to borrow later. Even if you can allocate

only a small amount to your child’s college fund, say $50 or $100 a month, you might be surprised at how much you can accumulate over many years. For example, if you saved $100 every month and earned 8% annually, you would have $18,415 in your child’s college fund after 10 years. (This example is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent a specific investment. Investment returns will fluctuate and cannot be guaranteed.)

If you are unsure about how to allocate funds between retirement and college, a professional financial planner may be able to help. This person can also help you select appropriate investments for each goal.

Remember, just because you are pursuing both goals at the same time doesn’t necessarily mean that the same investments will be suitable. It may be appropriate to treat each goal independently.

Help! I can’t meet both goals If the numbers say that you can’t afford to educate your child or retire with the lifestyle you expected, you’ll probably have to make some sacrifices. Here are some suggestions: • Defer retirement: The longer you work, the more money you will earn and the later you’ll need to dip into your retirement savings.

• Work part-time during retirement.

• Reduce your standard of living now or in retirement: You might be able to adjust your spending habits now to have more money later. Or, you may want to consider cutting back in retirement.

• Invest more aggressively: If you have several years until retirement or college, you might be able to earn more money by investing more aggressively (but remember that aggressive investments mean a greater risk of loss). Note that no investment strategy can guarantee success.

• Expect your child to contribute more money to college: Despite your best efforts, your child may need to take out student loans or work part-time to earn money for college.

• Send your child to a less expensive school: You may have dreamed your child would follow in your footsteps and attend an Ivy League school. However, unless your child is awarded a scholarship, you may need to lower your expectations.

• Think of other creative ways to reduce education costs: Your child could attend a local college and live at home to save on room and board, enroll in an accelerated program to graduate in three years instead of four, take advantage of a cooperative education where paid internships alternate with course work, or defer college for a year or two and work to earn money for college.

Retirement accounts be used to save for college?

Yes. Should they be? That depends on your family’s circumstances.

We generally discourage paying for college with funds from a retirement account; even more so if using retirement funds for a child’s college education will leave you with no funds in your retirement years.

With that said, you can certainly tap your retirement accounts to help pay the college bills if you need to. With IRAs, you can withdraw money penalty free for college expenses, even if you’re under age 59½ (though there may be income tax consequences for the money you withdraw).

However, with an employer-sponsored retirement plan like a 401(k) or 403(b), you’ll generally pay a 10% penalty on any withdrawals made before you reach age 59½ (age 55 or 50 in some cases), even if the money is used for college expenses. There may be income tax consequences, as well. (Check with your plan administrator to see what withdrawal options are available to you in your employer-sponsored retirement plan.)

College is a big hurdle, and if history is any indication of what is to come, costs could continue to rise. As with any goal, consistently saving is usually the best strategy.

At Austin Asset, we are Fee-Only Financial Advisors. We seek to bring clarity and purpose to wealth through authentic and enduring relationships. For Life.

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7 AB PIN AL

OTLPHX / DRIVE FOR SHOW

W BM 22 20

f its exclusivity you are looking for then the 2022 BMW Alpina B7 may be the answer to your desires. With only a thousand plus of these vehicles made each year those that can land one, especially here in the United States, know they have gotten their hands on something uniquely special.

BMW’s ambition for luxury, performance and style is represented in its vast stable of world-renowned M-class vehicles. The B7 a high-performance version of the 7 series sedan is developed by Alpina a former independent manufacturer now owned by BMW. With that said, the 2022 BMW Alpina B7 is one of their creations that really stands out from the rest.

drive for show

7

This ultra-luxury, highperformance sedan sporting BMW trademark turbine-style wheels with a well-defined design can launch its occupants from 0 to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds with a top speed of 205 mph. The B7’s jaw dropping acceleration is powered by a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 producing 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is reasonable considering the amount of raw power that comes with the B7. The EPA rates the B7 at 19 mpg combined that’s and estimated 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

Inside the 2022 BMW Alpina B7 offers lots of room for both front and rear passengers. The interior finish-out is super comfortable and elegant nothing less than you would expect from the top of BMW’s food chain. The technology that BMW provides is exceptional including remote control parking available as a stand-alone option that lets you use the key fob to guide the car into or out of tight parking spaces. All the driving aids are spot-on and helpful instead of annoying. The voice control system understands and responds to commands with surprising ease and quickness, making it a breeze to navigate through the menu system. The B7 also now supports Android Auto, and iPhone users can enjoy wireless Apple CarPlay.

The 2022 BMW Alpina B7 has impressive storage capacity outback with a massive 18.2 cubic-foot trunk space. The rear seats don’t fold, but a center pass-through will allow you to carry long items. The interior has plenty of storage for small items, including large door pockets and small bins and cubbies for rear passengers.

This BMW that sports the unique Alpina badge screams exclusivity because of its limited availability, so anyone driving this vehicle around town or on the open road will feel special.

The 2022 BMW Alpina B7 is a head-turner with a price tag of just under $150,000. But its not all about money getting your hands on one here in the United States. There will be some planning required to get this one into your personal stable. However, once its there you will enjoy miles of superb motoring and discussion around this truly exceptional vehicle.

Driverside Vehicle Reviews

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All About The Americano Scottsdale’s buzziest restaurant shines with a posh setting, creative cocktails and stellar cuisine by celebrity chef Scott Conant STORY BY TERESA K. TRAVERSE PHOTOS: CORTESY OF THE AMERICANO

Bar.

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The Americano is one of Scottsdale’s most popular restaurants, and it’s easy to see why. Celebrity chef Scott Conant is behind this spot that opened in February of 2020.

Conant has quite the background. He’s renowned for his Italian cuisine and made a name for himself at esteemed restaurants all over New York City like Scarpetta. He even won a James Beard award for “Best New Restaurant” when he opened L’Impero in 2003.

He’s also appeared on Food Network’s “Chopped” and “Top Chef.”

H

e moved to Arizona in 2016 and made his culinary debut in Arizona with Mora Italian, a casual concept in Central Phoenix, in 2017. The Americano proved to be so successful that Conant opened a second outpost in Atlanta in May of 2022.

It’s no surprise to Nicholas Padua, director of wine and beverage for The Americano, why the North Scottsdale restaurant has resonated with so many.

“Why it is so popular is that we strive to be consistent and give genuine hospitality in this beautiful, sexy, modern restaurant,” says Padua, director of wine and beverage for The Americano. “The moment you walk in, you’re transported somewhere else.”

When you step inside the restaurant that has a very distinct posh lounge vibe, in front of you is an eye-catching and wall-size display featuring white molds of cooking and baking pans. Inside, the restaurant is softly lit with navy walls.

On your right is the hostess stand. To your left is the bar area featuring well-lit shelves. Past the bar to your right is the main dining room, and it’s a site to behold. Striking circular gold light fixtures sway in the air overhead. Directly ahead is a well-lit open kitchen. To the left is a private dining room with a sliding door partition.

To the right is a row of booths and more tables and walls decked out with art depicting black and white cityscapes that fade into a painting of a woman’s face. We were seated in a cozy booth with high seatbacks that offered privacy and a prime view of the dining room and open kitchen. The restaurant buzzes with conversation and is nearly full on a Thursday night. On the large circular table was a gold colored light fixture featuring a live, flickering candle—a nice touch.

The meal kicked off with a glass of Champagne that was well balanced and not too dry.

Versace on the Floor.

The Americano Interior.

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Tagliatelle Wagyu Bolognese.

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The menu of the modern steakhouse with Italian spirit features shareable appetizers, salads, appetizers, house-made pastas, a wide variety of steaks and entrees ranging from Calabrian chili glazed black cod to veal chop parmigiana.

“The Americano reflects the soul of Scottsdale coupled with the European style of dining, one that is a highly personalized and unmatched experience. Our goal is simple — to have guests leave happier than when they first arrived. Inspired by my travels, the menu is diverse yet approachable with a seasonal focus,” says Conant.

What we loved most about the menu was how creative it was. We started with the Caviar Fries, an inventive, fun way to serve the caviar. A plate of waffle fries was topped with caviar, crème fraiche, shallots, scallions and cured egg yolk. Next up, we tried the burrata salad. The creamy and spreadable cheese was served alongside well-seasoned sweet peperonata, basil oil, bortarga and a few pieces of local Noble bread. For our third starter, we shared a focaccia ripiena.

The thick, pillowy circular bread was stuffed with stracchino cheese and potatoes and topped with fresh, green pesto. Each piece was like biting into a small slice of pizza.

For our first entrée, we had to order the pasta al pomodoro served with chef’s signature pasta sauce. The thick pasta was served in an oversized white plate topped with a glass dome that was removed with a flourish to re-

Campanelle Al Gamberi. veal the entree. Conant’s signature red sauce tasted hearty, fresh and rich. The recipe typically incorporates tomatoes, basil, chili flakes, olive oil, garlic and salt for a simple and irresistible sauce. This is the kind of dish you’d order every time you drop by.

The drinks menu here is of some note.

Craft cocktails are a specialty, and they look just as good as they taste. The signature Versace on the Floor (it shares the name of a Bruno Mars song that plays over the speakers at The Americano) is unlike any other drink we’ve ever tried. When we interviewed Padua for this story, he told us it was like

Agnolotti del Plin .

31 The Americano Front Entrance.

OTLPHX.COM

The Third Monk.

drinking Thai green curry. We were dubious when we heard that description, but when we had our first sip, we realized he had nailed it. The dynamic drink—it’s spicy with just a hint of sweet—is made with serrano fresno chili infused vodka, coconut white balsamic, mesquite honey and topped with a thick, silky and light basil olive oil foam. The entire libation is garnished with a basil leaf. Padua even gave us a spoon so we could devour all of the foam.

He also complemented the beverage with a sweet riesling to help cool us off.

Versace on the Floor was a collaborative effort from the bar team. The staff was searching for a way to make a vodka-based drink that was exotic with different layers and textures. The key to the cocktail?

“Having those those spicier elements and then fresh basil really come through for the warmer climate,” says Padua, who has worked for storied chefs like Michael Mina and Wolfgang Puck. He previously worked at Bourbon Steak at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. He also curates the restaurant’s

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All Gucci.

award-winning wine list focuses on American and Italian varietals with a French Champagne.

Desserts are crafted by pastry chef Tina Gamel.

Perhaps the most creative of the bunch, the refreshing and light semifreddo was literally shaped like a peach that you cracked into with a spoon. Our personal favorite dessert was the decadent chocolate mousse. The rich, thick mousse was coated with a layer of chocolate and artfully plated. Inside were maraschino cherries to temper the chocolate. This dessert—like every dish on the menu—was unforgettable. Above all, the fine dining restaurant felt inviting and unpretentious.

“Being able to make the guests feel comfortable when they’re in the restaurant is the most important thing,” says Padua. “There’s food and beverage served everywhere, but it’s about how it’s served and with how much authenticity. How real is this hospitality? … It’s one of the greatest things that the team has brought in and really understands what it’s all about.”

I Tried GolfForever Because Quitting Golf Wasn’t an Option OTLPHX / GOLF TECH

STORY BY MARC HALL

A frustrating – but perhaps, inevitable – thing has been happening in my recent progression in the game of golf. After 35 years in the game, I understand the golf swing better than I ever have and, by that, I mean I know basically what I want my body to do in the sequence I want it to happen when I stand over the ball. Unfortunately, though, the body doesn’t always cooperate. My back can lock up. Despite routine stretching, my hips will also tend to tighten and inhibit my full range of golf motion.

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golf tech

Consequently, I had been losing driving distance and was less accurate on approaches and, if I’m not really stretched out, the game can kinda hurt. We definitely had reached the Stop the Insanity phase, quite honestly, because I’m not ready to move up a set of tees, or quit, just because I’m turning 50. I’ve got to find a way to regain some pop off the tee and some consistency in the swing motion. If Padraig Harrington, Scott McCarron and Vijay Singh can still launch it 300 yards, I should be able to routinely get it out there to 230 or 240, right?

When I started getting ads for GolfForever, it was if the Instagram algorithm could read my mind – or its ad minions have been watching me on the range. The golf-specific fitness program is the one used by World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler, who generates effortless power and ranks among the game’s finest ball strikers. I’d always been told golfers should train like golfers if they want their golf muscles to engage at the right time, so I tried the system. Justin Leonard and Ryan Palmer are also brand ambassadors and avid GolfForever users.

GolfForever has two components, really. The Swing Trainer which is a 44.5-inch asymmetrical training bar designed with a D3 swing weight. You can swing it like a heavy club to loosen up, but its real value is in the resistance training exercises you can do thanks to the videos in GolfForever’s easy-touse mobile app. There are hundreds of exercises you can do after a doctordesigned self assessment. Anything from pre-round warmups to detailed moves that increase Rotational Power, Flexibility, Balance, Mobility and Injury Prevention. It’s like Peloton for golf. If you can follow along and mimic the moves the expert trainer makes in the video, you’re in business. And, trust me, you can. The self-assessment of your balance, flexibility and mobility you take when you first start using the app puts you on the safest, most achievable track so you can see progress quite quickly.

“100 percent of golfers need to do resistance training,” GolfForever founder Dr. Jeremy James says. “Car-

diovascular exercise generally will get you a long life, meaning it can prevent heart disease, diabetes, cancers and things like that. But strength and resistance training will make that longer life worth living. It’s going to keep you pain-free and highly functional. And that applies to golf. Just walking the course, jogging, or doing an exercise bike isn’t going to help you support your joints, hips and shoulders that are critical to maintaining a very high level of play, especially as you move into your 40s, 50s and beyond.”

That’s the idea. I want to enjoy playing at a decent level as I age.

And, after two months of getting into a groove with GolfForever, I’m feeling better and seeing some distance gains off the tee. My sweeping draw is back

“

100 percent of golfers need to do resistance training”

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easy-to-attach polymer carabiners; durable, 15-pound latex training cord with nylon safety sleeve; universal nylon door anchor; two quickinterchangeable weighted balls for overloaded training and warming up; and interchangeable hand grips.

To know the exercises you’re doing directly benefit your golf game is a great feeling. No time wasted and the improvement shows in your swing and stamina. Best of all, the sessions last about 20 minutes each, so keeping up with the program is very manageable. If it took Scottie Scheffler from winless to #1 on the world, imagine what possibilities this system can open for you. Learn more at GolfForever.com.

with fewer tight blocked tee balls. Most impressively, my back and hips now feel just as loose and tension-free on the 18th fairway as they do on the first tee. I realize I’m going to have to keep progressing with this program to see more gains and continue the stretches that work for me. The promising thing is that the results show and they’re their own reward. If you feel well, you can play well.

“The exercises on the GolfForever platform mimic and strengthen your golfing movements,” says James. “You need to do things to open up your hips, to develop power in your hips, to keep flexibility in your shoulders and upper back. Our golf-specific training program is going to do all of that, and every exercise is going to focus on being as efficient as possible to hit all those goals without doing things that are unnecessary.”

Here’s the rundown on what you get when you order the GolfForever Swing Trainer: the 44.5-inch training bar; two power grade soft, sweat-resistant 15-inch rubber grips with five specialized training zone demarcations; two

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The Grand Canyon: On the Edge of Luxury STORY BY KATIE SOLTAS

With this summer’s nationwide heat wave, many of us are ready for some fresh air and a cool Autumn retreat. An accessible trip for Arizona residents, the Grand Canyon’s South Rim provides the natural beauty, adventure and even luxurious accommodations that you may not expect to find at a national park.

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e are a thrill-seeking family and enjoy hiking, river rafting, mountain biking, etc. We are always on the go and pursuing the next activity. However, the Grand Canyon invoked a sense of serenity in me. Here, I simply wished to sit in our lodge and take in the views with a glass of local wine and appreciate a slower change of pace.

People have been exploring and living in the Grand Canyon for thousands of years including Native American tribes and 19th century pioneers to modern-day outdoor enthusiasts and the world’s elite guests – including Oprah Winfrey, Sir Paul McCartney, and Theodore Roosevelt. Although its natural landscape and vistas are stunning, there is also a rich heritage and history to learn about during a visit. As part of the mission of the National Park Service, the Grand Canyon protects and preserves all the human history and culture found within the park, which tells the story of the region and its diverse inhabitants.

One of the best ways to experience both the history and incredible scenery is to stay right on the canyon rim at El Tovar Hotel in Grand Canyon National Park, featuring 78 guest rooms and suites with sweeping panoramas.

Part of the Grand Canyon National Park Lodges group, El Tovar Hotel opened its doors more than 100 years ago in 1905. Designed by famed railway architect Charles Whittlesey to emulate a Swiss chalet and a Norwegian villa to appeal to the elite European aesthetic of the Victorian Era. It was long considered the most elegant hotel west of the Mississippi and is now a National Historic Landmark.

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“

If hiking any trail at the Grand Canyon, be sure to leave early, wear appropriate sun protection, bring plenty of water and remember that the return trip up will be much more difficult.”

Like many architectural designs of homes and hotels, each room has a unique layout. Suites boast sitting areas and balconies, and all rooms are adorned with meaningful art that speaks to past celebrity guests or works by regional Native American artists.

There are several fine dining options in the vicinity of El Tovar Hotel in Grand Canyon Village. In the hotel, dine in casual elegance in a historic setting in El Tovar Dining Room which showcases the stone and pine elements used to construct the hotel and murals that reflect customs of the Hopi, Apache, Mojave and Navajo tribes of the area. Its menu includes classic American dishes with regional inspiration, along with a notable wine list featuring varieties from the emerging Arizona winery scene as well as hand-picked bottles from the West Coast. El Tovar is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and reservations are highly recommended.

A few steps away in the village is the Arizona Steakhouse, housed in the Bright Angel Lodge. Currently only open for lunch, the steakhouse incorporates indigenous ingredients from around the Grand Canyon State, aiming to tell the story about Arizona and its people. Sourcing its proteins and produce from small family farms and Native American tribes whenever possible, the steakhouse is an industry leader in sustainability as part of the Green Restaurant movement, in which participat-

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El Tovar Aerial View. ing restaurants run their operations using transparent, science-based certification standards. By doing this, the eateries become more environmentally sustainable and reduce waste.

An opulent stay at El Tovar Hotel is the ideal launch pad for Grand Canyon sightseeing. In addition to the incredible views that can’t be touted enough, the historic hotel is within walking distance to multiple hiking trailheads including the easy to moderate Bright Angel trail that switchbacks down into the canyon. A more challenging hike within driving distance is the South Kaibab Trail, where hikers can get a clear view of the Colorado River below, a striking aquamarine hue carving through the dramatic red rocks and lush emerald foliage of the canyon. The river can also be seen from Pipe Creek Vista lookout point and the top of the Kaibab trailhead.

and Lookout Studio historic buildings are also nearby and provide ample opportunities to explore while shopping for authentic fine jewelry and art made by Navajo and Hopi tribespeople. During my family trip, I scooped up an original painting by Hopi Arizona native Richard Dawavendewa of the Grand Canyon at sunrise as well as a turquoise “fetish” necklace made of stone and wood carvings of animals crafted by tribes to channel the animals’ energy and protection.

If hiking any trail at the Grand Canyon, be sure to leave early, wear appropriate sun protection, bring plenty of water and remember that the return trip up will be much more difficult. The Yavapai Lodge within the Park Headquarters is the ultimate post-hike destination to enjoy the fresh air, fire pits and sample craft beer from the Grand Canyon Brewery & Distillery in good company with other hikers. Try the Prickly Pear Wheat paired with the gourmet vegan street tacos.

The Grand Canyon Railway Train Depot, Hopi House

Hopi House.

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El Tovar books up months in advance, but there is an alternative, more modern lodging option just outside the park: the Grand Hotel, the only 3-star hotel in the vicinity of the Grand Canyon in nearby Tusayan, AZ. The 121-guest room hotel, built in 1998, is only one mile from the park entrance and includes amenities such as an indoor swimming pool, hot tub and fitness center. The chalet-inspired design combines rustic and contemporary touches with timber, stone and ironworks décor influenced by the local area.

El Tovar Dining.

El Tovar Signature Filet Mignon.

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Grand Hotel Restaurant.

Upgrade to the Grand Suite to achieve true luxury in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite, or make sure to ask for a balcony when booking other room types. The Grant Hotel features two dining establishments including the Canyon Star Steakhouse and the Canyon Star saloon with nightly live entertainment. For those who can’t miss a game while on vacation, the saloon is an excellent venue to imbibe and indulge.

Its proximity to the Grand Canyon is convenient for nearby attractions, and the Grand Hotel’s staff can assist with booking activities such as mule tours through the Kaibab Forest and guided motorcoach tours of the Grand Canyon that stop at all the highlighted points.

Other excursions include float trips down the Colorado River, train rides in restored old train cars on the Grand Canyon Railway and helicopter tours. Wildlife enthusiasts can embark on a day trip to “Fort Bearizona,” where guests can safely observe Arizona bears, bison, wolves and more in their natural habitat.

No matter where your interests lie, the Grand Canyon has something you and your partner or family will relish in discovering together. It is likely you’ll take away valuable knowledge from learning about its history, or the transformative canyon could even ignite a new, unexpected passion. If you’re lucky, you’ll have the chance to see some area’s wildlife up close and personal!

Grand Hotel Bed.

Correcting Your Slice Proper Sequencing (Part 2)

STORY BY BUCK MAYERS

In the previous article, The Dreaded Slice, we discussed how the set-up could influence why golfers slice the ball. Please review your grip, aim, posture, and ball position first before moving on to the cause and effects of your golf swing.

OTLPHX / BUCKS TIPS

More times than not, the path of the clubhead is coming from the outside of the ball to the left on the way down to the strike. The biggest cause to this effect is an open clubface. Outside of a set-up flaw, the clubface could be too open to the swing path if the wrists and arms roll the clubface too much in the takeaway. This action will create a reaction to square it on the way down and cause “coming over the top” or swinging left of the target line. Work on matching your clubface to your spine angle on the takeaway early and flattening the lead (left) wrist at the top to counter the opening/rolling of the clubface going back.

The second cause is excessive lateral movement or swaying off the ball. This can cause too much sliding back to the ball. This could also cause a

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quick or fast transition and an ‘out-to-in’ swing path. The correction to both is to have a more centered takeaway to avoid the sway and a more patient transition from the top.

Lastly, the critical point of the transition is the lower body shift / or pressure to the lead foot while the arms just fall from the proper sequencing. Harvey Penick called this the “Magic Move”.

This smooth transition allows the club to move on the proper path from the inside of the ball to strike the middle of the clubface. All these factors are important to understand why you slice.

Be patient with your progress and only work on one change at a time.

Buck Mayers is an Emeritus Professional at Escondido Golf & Lake Club in Horseshoe Bay, TX and can be reached at 512-695-2270 or buck@buckmayersgolf.com.

PXG: You’ll fit right in STORY BY MIKE BAILEY

When it comes to club fitting, golfers seemingly have endless choices. And one thing anyone who has undergone a few fittings can tell you, is that not all club fitting experiences are equal.

On one hand, most of them use similar equipment like Trackman, for example, to monitor how a particular shaft/club head combination might perform for an individual. But what separates the outstanding club fitting experience from the ordinary are the people who are doing the experience itself.

From that vantage point, PXG is as good as it gets -- from the ever-growing list of beautiful facilities, to the products, and the professional club fitters who make getting fit for PXG as enjoyable -- or even more enjoyable at times -- than playing a round of golf.

OTLPHX / EQUIPMENT

With product lines to cover every level and strength of the golfer, PXG can fit any player to a tee. But more than that, it’s an experience that’s incredibly thorough and focused on the individual.

“It was like being a pro for a day,” said Sedric Walker, who was fitted for an entire bag of PXG clubs at the company’s headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona, “It was a wonderful experience. Every golfer owes it to themselves to go through this.”

Walker, who is the CEO and founder of OTL and OTLPHX Magazines, had never

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“

The experience, end-to-end, is really important to us,” Fuh said.

played PXGs before, but he knew about the quality of the clubs and the company’s attention to detail. While he expected the experience to be good, the process still exceeded his expectations. “I had seen players playing with PXG. The clubs always stood out. They have a vibe and a reputation of being special,” he said.

“I felt like it was all about me and my game,” he said. “I felt they dedicated all of their resources to figure out what was best for me.”

“This is how you can take your game to the next level. I mean, I know you have to practice and work on your game, but this ensures you’re not held back equipment that’s not made for you and your game. This is great equipment, especially when they dial it in for you.”

PXG was founded nearly a decade ago by Bob Parsons (of GoDaddy fame), who hired the best in the business to create the best clubs on the market. Today, the company produces some of the best drivers, irons, wedges and putters in the business and is represented on tours worldwide by notable players like Zach Johnson, Jason Korkrak, Celine Boutier, Kristina Kim, and Brittany Lang, just to name a few.

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“It’s first class, top-notch,” Walker said of the PXG facility and experience. “It’s state-of-the art and tailored for individual attention. I was never rushed. We hit as many balls as necessary, from driver to irons and the Sugar Daddy Wedges. Then we went to the putting bay.”

With its line of clubs for every player -- from high handicappers to elite amateurs and tour players -- PXG really does have every golf covered.

“We want our equipment not only to be the highest performing in the business, but we also want you to get the most out of it. And that comes with a great fitting,” said Edwin Fuh, territory sales leader for PXG in Texas.

If you combine the different models with all the lofts and lie possibilities as well as different flexes and brands of shafts, there are literally thousands of combinations. Obviously, no player is going to try a thousand clubs during a fitting, so a skilled fitter who can quickly dial it in for a player is crucial.

Fuh explained that while many golfers may be under the impression that it’s all about the shaft, it’s really about finding the right clubhead first to get a player in the right window.

For example, a fitter might start a better player with more swing speed with the new PXG GEN5 0311 Driver instead of the GEN5 0311 XF (xtreme forgiveness) head to get the spin and launch in the correct windows. The XF would produce too much spin for a player with higher swing speeds, but might be right for a higher handicapper who needs the extra spin and perimeter weighting. The same process holds true for the GEN5 Irons, which come in 0311 XP (xtreme performance), P (players), and T (tour).

If you can go to a PXG retail location -- of which there are nearly two dozen across the country, it simply doesn’t get any better. (You can call PXG at 1-844-FIT-4PXG to schedule a fitting near you.)

From there, through hitting balls in the bay, a fitter can crunch the numbers on launch angle, ball speed, spin rates and side spin to dial in lofts and lie and then the shaft. And here’s another bonus.

While a fitter can tell a lot from the hitting bay, it’s not the same as hitting shots on the golf course. So sometimes players will see different tendencies out on the course, and they are welcome to come back to PXG later for adjustments. It’s all part of PXG’s incredibly comprehensive service.

These are gorgeous facilities with multiple, spacious hitting bays and the latest in technology for every club in the bag, including putters.

“The experience, end-to-end, is really important to us,” Fuh said.

And while PXG clubs are top notch, you’re only going to get the most out of them by getting properly fit for them. And that’s going to happen by a PXG Fitting Specialist.

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OTLPHX / TRAVEL

Island Resort and Casino: Escape to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula STORY BY D. SZATHKEY

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Sweetgrass, Sage Run, Greywalls, Timberstone all shine together in America’s Summer Golf Capital 51 OTLPHX.COM

our next golf buddies’ trip should take you and your pals to a destination that’s nothing short of mind-blowing. To accomplish that, you might just need to elevate your search and take your plans a little higher – as in farther north. Much farther north.

Michigan’s visually breathtaking Upper Peninsula is the sliver of land that runs above the mitten along Lake Superior, connecting Wisconsin on one end and Canada on another. Despite the short summer May-to-September season, the U.P. is known for world-class hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and delicious meat pies called pasties. The region has also joined in on the state’s golf craze in a serious way.

Take a peek at our recent trip to understand the hype. We flew into Green Bay, Wisconsin, and made the two-hour journey north to the home of our trip’s operations, Island Resort and Casino in Harris, MI. We could have also flown into nearby Escanaba or Marquette, cutting the drive time down by half. Harris is a laid-back setting that’s just 15 minutes west of Escanaba, enveloped by towering pines and unspoiled by development.

The Island Resort and Casino is one of the Midwest’s largest golf, casino, and entertainment resort destinations, spanning more than 408,000 square feet. The resort now has 450-plus guest rooms, thanks to a recent $30 million renovation that added 128 rooms, including new golf suites where we based ourselves for the next four days.

The resort also boasts an array of dining options, a luxurious spa, Splash Island indoor pool with waterpark features, and a casino floor that includes 1,200-plus slots, a poker room, craps, blackjack, Spanish 21, three-card poker, let-it-ride, roulette and bingo. And to up the ante, golfers are now able to add sportsbook entertainment to their golf vacations. The resort recently unveiled a dedicated space for sports bettors to relax and place bets using user-friendly, interactive kiosks.

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But our focus this time is the golf that’s been described as “unforgettable” and “under-rated.” The resort’s original course is the exceptional Sweetgrass Golf Club.

Opened in 2007, it’s home to the Island Resort Championship, one of the premier stops on the EPSON Tour – the official “Road to the LPGA.” This year’s event saw Ssu-Chia Cheng post a 17-under finish to win by a whopping six strokes.

Designed by course architect Paul Albanese and ranked among the top 10 public courses in Michigan, Sweetgrass was also named the 2022 National Golf Course of the Year by the National Golf Course Owners Association. It’s also recognized by GOLF Magazine and Golf Digest with a Best in State ranking. Adjacent to the hotel, it makes getting to the first tee incredibly convenient. Rooms high up in the new hotel

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The back nine starts out with fun, playable holes before heading back out into the open vista. On this side, you’ll find arguably two of the best par-3 holes anywhere that co-exist on one nine. The first is the 12th that features one of the coolest Biarritz holes. It has a massive green complex with a large 6-foot-deep swale in the middle – demanding an approach shot with long-iron accuracy. The par-3 15th requires an accurate shot with a short iron into an island green.

In 2018, Island Resort & Casino opened its second course, Sage Run, which was also designed by Albanese and is a bold contrast to its sister course Sweetgrass.

Selected by Golf Digest as one the “Best New” courses in America in 2019 and ranked 20th in Michigan’s top courses by Golfweek, Sage Run features a more rugged terrain with hardwoods, open areas and a massive ridge/ drumlin and bunkers that Albanese likens to Royal County Down, a Northern Ireland golf club rated among the world’s finest.

Sage Run starts off on top of the ridge with scenic views and plays down to an open area with wide fairways and rugged fescue grasses set off by earth tones, browns and tans. The 3rd, a strategic par-5 with rugged bunkers, sand areas and a small elevated green, places a premium on accuracy and has a Pine Valley feel. The par-3 5th is the first experience with the drumlin ridge; although a short hole, it requires a blind uphill shot to a large green.

Sage Run’s back nine features a variety of cool, short par-4 holes leaving strategic second shots. The 13th is an uphill par-4 with strategic fairway bunkers that golfers can take on for a better angle to the elevated green that’s guarded by rugged bunkering to the left. Players must be ready on the short 16th to attack the ridge uphill to a large blind green. A straight drive up the right side left a short pitch to a large and undulating green.

tower have scenic panoramic views of the spectacular 9th and 18th holes. The prairie links-style course then meanders to a wide-open vista where many greens and flags can be seen in the distance. Golfers will also experience some of the game’s most fun greens to putt (Redan, Biarritz, Island, and Double-green).

The 4th features a reverse Redan green that runs from the top to back right and away from the golfer. The 7th hole is where we encountered the next Redan green, a more traditional type that runs from the top right to back left. Then the 9th makes its way back up toward the hotel and shares a massive pond, waterfalls and double green with 18.

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The finish at Sage Run, including the short 16th, offers a great chance to make some birdies. The par-3 17th is a great short hole measuring 125 yards to a small green complex that rests on the ridge’s edge with a rugged bunker guarding the right side. The par-5 18th plays into the setting sun and scenic 30-mile views from an elevated tee downhill to a wide fairway. The second shot leaves a short iron into a small green that’s replete with ridges and hollows.

Adding day trips to nearby Greywalls Golf Club and Timberstone sets up the “Perfect 4-Some” of golf, which is a fully customizable stay-and-play package. Designed by Mike DeVries and part of the popular Marquette Country Club, the 230-acre Greywalls combines jaw-dropping panoramas of Lake Superior with stunning natural rock outcroppings. West of Escanaba, Timberstone in Iron Mountain (home to legendary Michigan State basketball

coach Tom Izzo and former NFL coach Steve Mariucci) meanders up and down a mountain, showcasing scenic vistas, strategic wetlands and tall pines.

The resort’s fully customized packages offer 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-night lodging options with up to four golf rounds, which can also include Greywalls and Timberstone. The very competitive package price options range from $95-$758 depending on time of year. Compare these rates with those from other noteworthy golf destinations and you’ll have yet another convincing reason to choose this destination because of the high quality and diverse array of golf.

You’ve heard our story, but don’t take it from us.

Plan your trip now for next year and you won’t be disappointed. Everyone is talking and packages are already booking fast for 2023. Flights from Austin and Houston through Detroit and Chicago to Escanaba, Michigan are convenient, or fly into Green Bay, Wisconsin and have a scenic drive north to the destination.

For more information about Island Resort and Casino and its golf packages, visit www.islandresortgolf.com or call 877-475-4733.

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Adobe Course at Arizona Biltmore 56

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STORY BY CARL MICKELSON

Lake at

PHOTOS COURTESY OF: THE ADOBE COURSE AT ARIZONA BILTMORE

I guess, in many ways, I look at golf courses that are nearly one century old the same way I do old concert venues, stately homes, baseball stadiums or those reassuringly preserved town squares. The curiosity is just overwhelming to see how timeless they are and to have a glimpse at how people viewed and played the game 10 decades ago. I’ve halted road trips to pull over and play nine-hole WPA-built or Classic Era courses in New Hampshire, Michigan, Hawaii and Texas and just to check out the nuances of the green complexes, playing angles, hazards or the quirkiness of the bunkering.

Adobe Course at Arizona Bilmore.

o, when deciding on a course to open a recent three-day golf boondoggle in the Scottsdale area, I went with the Adobe Course at the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club, a short ride from my hotel at Mountain Shadows Resort.

There would be plenty of time to navigate forced carries over daunting expanses of desert and imposing cacti. The first round of this trip will be all about breaking myself in easily and taking a bit of a history lesson on the 1929 William P. Bell layout that I had become so curious about.

Bell, a one-time construction superintendent for renowned golf courses architects William Watson and George Thomas, is known for his inspired designs at Bel-Air Country Club, La Jolla Country Club, and dozens of courses across, California, Arizona and Nevada. He also created the original plans for both Torrey Pines Golf Courses, which his son, William F. Bell would complete in the 1950s.

So, even after time and renovations, I knew there would be abundant charm, nuance and architectural expression even despite the short yardage and openness of the parkland layout. The Adobe Course and its sister, the Links Course have been called the Central Park of greater Phoenix. Their setting, with sensational views of the mountains and in the shadows of the legendary Arizona Biltmore Hotel, explains the origin of that moniker, but what’s undeniable is the walk-in-the-park sensation and the connection you feel to decade after decade of golfer who has strode these charming fair-

ways before you.

Among those golfers are Hollywood luminaries like Clark Gable and a cast of Unites States presidents from Dwight Eisenhower, Harry S. Truman, John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Lyndon B. Johnson, George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush.

When the resort’s original owner, chewing gum mogul William Wrigley Jr. commissioned the construction of the golf course, the intention was to provide an expanse of natural beauty and intrigue that matched the splendor and architectural inspiration of the now-globally-acclaimed Arizona Biltmore Hotel and Resort, designed by Albert Chase McArthur with collaboration from his legendary mentor Frank Lloyd Wright.

The Adobe is one of the first three courses ever built in Arizona and true to its roots, it shows off the simplicity and elegance of those bygone times.

I wanted to sneak this round in on the day of my arrival, so I booked my afternoon round as a single. Fortunately, I was paired with an affable father and son duo of a recently retired exec and fast-rising late-twenties software engineer, who were as kind as they were curious. That made the round and the conversation more enjoyable.

At first glance, the Adobe course is the sort of place you think you’ll be able to manhandle and possibly shoot your personal best. At 6,586 yards from the rear black tees and 5,973 from the whites, it’s a bit of a bombers paradise, sure. Two things become abundantly clear fast, though. The angles you can play into the fairway can be com-

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partmentalized as good, better, best, and pretty much screwed. Also, these 93-yearold greens won’t be easily solved on your first visit. So, while there’s not a ton of water and only a modest tally of greenside sand traps, there’s still some nuance and cat-and-mouse that makes this course very fun and just mildly vexing until you find your putting groove.

The old-time great courses are proficient at fooling the eye with subtle features like cross bunkers, false fronts and wellplace mini mounds. I knew when my surestruck nine-iron approach landed almost a full club short, I’d fallen for one of those subtleties. It wouldn’t be the last time I had second and third guess approach yardages into these greens. I knew the distances, but Bell does a great job at making you decide if you believe what you see and it that jives with number in your head or on your rangefinder.

When you see a drivable par three followed by 119-yard par three (the third and fourth holes, which play toward the Phoenix Mountains’ famous Piestewa Peak) it’s hard not to like your chops, thinking birdies

Arizona Biltmor e Sa guar o Pool.

Links Course 15.

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are inevitable. Even harder? Walking to the fifth tee after consecutive bogeys. Smaller greens mean missing some putting surfaces and occasionally being short-sided. The lessons on shot management come hard and fast for first-timers here.

The stretch from the dogleg 10th hole, the open but demanding par-four 11th to the truly excellent par-three 11th hole, is a real delight as you navigate the outer perimeter of the routing which is farthest from the clubhouse. The green complex at 12, complete with a greenside bunker short and right and a daunting false front, is easily my favorite green on the course. It’s old school, quirky, tough and fun!

The short par-five 14th is another great standout hole with yesteryear shot values and another fun green. The pacing of holes is a total blast and the par threes have great variety. Closing with a short par 4 at 17 (311 yards) and one of the course’s longest par fours is a treat. That last full-iron approach re-

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minds you that you might have had to pull it every club in the bag to manage your way around the Adobe. I know I did enroute to a moral victory with a score of 79. I bogeyed 18 but played just okay enough to not embarrass myself on this classic throwback that fills you with nostalgia and smiles.

I know most people fly here to bomb balls over saguaros traipse through the greatest selection of desert courses in the land, but the Adobe was a wonderful change of pace from the courses we’ve all come to associate with typical Scottsdale golf. I’m glad I started the week here and at the energizing Mountain Shadows par-three course. I was warmed up and ready to hit demanding shots without having to sacrifice a half dozen balls to do so.

Plans are in place for a Summer 2023 renovation project of the Adobe Course, the first phase of an overall property renovation. According to owners JDM Partners, work on the Adobe will incorporate “modern golf course design and water conservation technology.” Key to the project will be a new, more efficient irrigation system and planting of new, drought tolerant TifTuf Bermudagrass throughout the course. The green complexes will also be renovated, the tee boxes will be leveled, and bunkers will be rebuilt with state-of-the-art drainage and a liner system featuring Capillary Concrete.

This new generation-lining method increases the speed of water flow, minimizing bunker washouts, reducing maintenance and improving playability.

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Led by Scottsdale resident Tom Lehman, a five-time PGA TOUR champion and 1996 Open Championship winner, the renovation will keep the general routing and par (71) of the golf course while preserving the Adobe’s famous parkland setting.

When the renovation, which also sounds like a restoration of William P. Bell’s subtle design genius, is complete, expect to hear people talking about this course with a whole new respect. It’s an absolute gem and a must play for anyone who loves a good throwback course and walking an idyllic setting while miles and miles of mountain and city views.

After the round, I was disappointed that I waited too late to try the burger and famous margarita at the Adobe Restaurant, one of the most popular 19th Holes in the city. That bit of time mismanagement, however, gave me a chance to walk over the Arizona Biltmore Hotel and Resort and enjoy fish tacos and a Fortaleza Blanco on the rocks while relaxing in the breeze and enjoying college basketball and top shelf people watching. The energy of the Arizona Biltmore is never-ending and the décor and architectural design inspires joy, movement, conversation and laughter. It was the perfect way to cap the day.

You have a nice window between October 2022 and May 2023 to play the Adobe before renovations. If you never have, or haven’t in a long time, it’s a good chance to be charmed be this Classic-Era treat.

La Cantera

Singularly Sensational

STORY BY MARC HALL

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As we make the gently winding, finely landscaped drive from the front gate of La Cantera Resort & Spa – with flirtatious glimpses of the nearby elevation we’ve come to call “the starting point of the Texas Hill Country” – to its port cochere and valet area, my wife sees the stylish rooftop of the resort’s posh, tranquil Loma de Vida Spa. She recalls that it’s one of her favorite and possibly the most picturesque spas she’s been to, which says a lot since she’s been to many, including some pretty breathtaking ones on Hawaiian isles.

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H

er reveries of tranquility make a word pop into my head. Mindfulness. It’s the thing everyone keeps telling me lately to practice and embrace to make everything better, but it also seems like one of the toughest things to actually get your arms around. To be present and intentional in every possible moment in a world characterized by distractions – some situational and many curated by marketing masterminds – sounds noble but, in most respects, far, far away.

I decided, for now, to just be intentional and mindful of changing into swim trunks and cruising down for a family night swim in the resort’s expansive, infinity-edged main pool. Even in the dark, the surrounding hill country looks rugged and majestic. It was a good call for our family of four on a mini fall break from the hamster wheel of back-to-school season. Relaxation washed over us, and laughter soon followed then lasted the entire long weekend. We forgot sunscreen, my sun forgot his swim shirts but all that matters so much less when you’re in the lap of luxury.

There are a handful of wonderful golf resorts in greater San Antonio but there is only one La Cantera and now, approaching three full decades since it first opened, one feels an obligation to describe what sets it apart. That’s

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when my monkey mind releases its tenuous fixation on mindfulness and realizes what La Cantera exhibits at nearly every corner is thoughtfulness. Ohana Real Estate Investors purchased the property from USAA last year, but no sweeping changes were needed, and none have ensued. The resort’s charms and uniqueness can be found completely intact.

In its design, architecture, décor, programming and service, La Cantera succeeds in blending Texas heritage and hospitality with Mexican and Mexican American inspiration. Once on these grounds, you’re living the nouveau ideal of modern San Antonio where cultures intertwine and play off of each other in the most energizing ways. The brilliantly landscaped Plaza San Saba, one of the Texas Hill Country’s leading selfie spots found just steps from the stylish hotel lobby, is where you’ll discover a soothing nature park complete with cascading water features, rock sculptures and awe-inspiring views of the geographical start of the verdant Texas Hill Country. It’s ornate but its design is, wait for it… thoughtful. To stand there ten minutes and see all the ways guests use this space – picnic area, romantic stroll venue, family portrait backdrop, first glass of wine destination, grassy toddler speedway – you appreciate the design… and the views.

La Cantera is thoughtful, too in its design flow. The

location and flow of Primero Cantina (a sensational Tex Mex restaurant with a fun, tasty and authentic menu and lively bar), and its indoor an outdoor dining with Hill Country views, connects seamlessly with Plaza San Saba and the resort’s three expansive (and artfully separate) swimming pool areas for adult, families and all-page recreation. The resort is elegant but comfortable everywhere you go but the spaces are meant to be lived in and not simply admired.

top form, it’s one of the best and most rewarding 18-hole experiences in the state.

After all these years, La Cantera brims with a refreshing authenticity. From the Henry’s Homemade Ice Cream in the fresh and friendly Henrietta’s Market to the walk-up gourmet charcuterie called Bocado adjacent to the posh Sire Bar (with a dazzling whiskey and bourbon selection), La Cantera dares to make unique touches that complement our active lifestyles, whimsies, and appetites.

Director of Golf Aaron Green is enthusiastic about the condition the course will be in as more attention and budget will allow for some cool enhancements. Due to drought and other factors, many of the course’s gently moving water features have been turned off, but they could soon be on the way back. These creeks and ravines aren’t just window dressing. They add a character, naturalism and a soothing energy to round. Like a Colorado mountain stream, these features delight the senses and complete La Cantera’s aesthetic. Thinning out tree growth and working in some of the lingering suggestions in Tom Weiskopf’s 2015 field notes (prior to a 2017 renovation) could yield extraordinary effects in the course’s not-too-distant future.

The next morning, I’m all kinds of intentional on the main reason I like to come to this special resort: to play La Cantera Golf Club. With the late 2021 closing of the beloved Palmer Course (the land is being repurposed for future development), all the golf operations resources can be channeled into making the former site of the Valero Texas Open (from 1995 to 2009) its very best. And, when this golf course is in

The par-72, 6,954-yard layout, which was tabbed as one of the country’s Best New Courses in 1995 is poised for a renaissance. Built on a wildly rugged captivating expanse of prime Hill Country acreage, La Cantera Golf Club is a feast for the senses but still more than meets the eye. The course’s best attributes sort of come at you in waves, so here’s a list of things to love about this iconic design.

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Another area where La Cantera shines is in its passion and commitment to memorable culinary experiences. From extraordinary steaks to succulent seafood to wood-fired pizzas and an ever-popular breakfast buffet, SweetFire Kitchen and its clever new chef, serves up pleasing favorites with a distinguished panache.

Signature, La Cantera’s award-winning fine-dining establishment, sits in the stone building that formerly housed the golf academy. Diners relish a delectable array of steaks, Gulf seafood, wild game and unique offerings seasonal offerings.

Primero Cantina is a pleasant surprise for even the most discerning Tex-Mex lover with its lovingly prepared fajitas, tacos of all kinds (including Puffy) and even seafood are presented with creativity and style.

If privacy matters, La Cantera delivers. The 36unit Villa enclave– located below the spa in alongside the Resort driving range– has been completely revitalized with new design features, landscaping and wall-to-wall restyling of the interiors of the spacious villas. This section is ideal for guests who prefer a more secluded vacation getaway with all the comforts of home. Similarly, SEVEN is La Cantera’s luxury adults-only guest experience. The seventh floor of the

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hotel is designated as 21-and-up and offers guests complimentary valet, a private check-in, and a dedicated SEVEN concierge. Access to Loma de Vida Spa and complimentary nightly hors d’oeuvres and champagne are also perks guests at SEVEN receive.

So if you ask me what I think of La Cantera Resort & Spa, the word you’ll hear most commonly will be that the touches and experiences at the resort are thoughtful. Around every little corner is your new favorite place to relax, recline, recreate or just take in all the views. To learn more, visit www.lacanteraresort.com.

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Reasons Why I Really, Really Like La Cantera Golf Club

1) Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish’s daring yet sensible Texas Hill Country design. Every time you play this course – and it’s one many would say they could play every day – the wonder of the routing and collection of terrifically solid golf holes still wow you. Hiring Weiskopf is another wat La Cantera shows thoughtfulness. His designs are cerebral, but always fair and, if you look at his seriously underrated design portfolio, it’s clear he was chosen time and again by developers who wanted something special, a unique and high-quality vintage, chose Weiskopf. Loch Lomond in Scotland, Forest Dunes in Michigan, everything he touched in Arizona - including Silverleaf and the Meadow and Canyons courses at Forest Highlands plus Spanish Peaks Mountain Club in Montana all demonstrate how Weiskopf recorded his masterpieces in a slightly different key.

3) Playability. If you choose the proper set of tees, you’ll find most of this course’s landing areas are ample and the real test is playing shots in from the correct angle and not leaving errant approaches short sided. It’s the same sensibility that prevails at St. Andrews. You’ll just find a lot more hilly fairways, limestone outcroppings and rushing creeks here.

4) Routing. Even after all these years, it something to walk around the resort and marvel how this routing winds from one part of the property and sneaks all the way up into beginnings of the Texas Hill Country. It’s such a fun ride and the tough holes balance exceptionally with the gettable ones.

5) The par threes aren’t burdened with an inferiority complex. From the middle tees, we played two mid-iron shots and two full-wedge shots. It was fun and I can say unequivocally I did not miss the one or two rip-three-wood-andhope par threes so many modern courses seem to fixate on.

2) The fantastic short par fours. Never dismiss a course with good, short two-shotters as just a short golf course. Not only does La Cantera’s routing show off the best of the area’s climbing-andplunging topography, it presents a thrilling pacing of holes for challenge and scoring. The potentially drivable seventh is known for the outlines of Six Flags Fiesta Texas rollercoasters that fill its backdrop, but it’s a perfect risk-reward hole with a hazard down the right side and fairway bunkers everywhere else you’d like to aim.

The eighth is scorable but an unforgiving cliff on the right means you have to pass a shot-making test to thrive. The 16th and its landmine collection of fairway bunkers presents temptation and a call to arms at a pivotal moment in the round.

6) The views from the 10th green and 11th tee. To see downtown San Antonio and all the development between there and the resort is outstanding.

Then, to turn around and see the Hill Country climb higher and higher so you feel like you could smash a driver and reach Kerrville.

7) Risk reward scenarios payoff big. Number two rewards a shot that cuts off the left to right dogleg. The fifth hole offers a heroic opportunity cut across the dogleg-right shape of the hole. Seven dares you to drive it close to the hazard for a chance to run up to the green. The 14th is a potentially reachable par 5 that could yield a needed late-round birdie.

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There’s a pairing in there somewhere STORY BY HUNTER HAM

Pairing food with the proper wine is a timeless tradition, a unity of two luxurious aspects of culture and pleasure. It’s an art, as much as the blending of a myriad of colors on a canvas to create the perfect shade for a sunset.

OTLPHX / WINE

To understand how well wine and food complement each other, I challenge you to sit with some oysters and your favorite vintage champagne or 1er Cru Chablis. Go further and move on to a nicely prepared steak and a cabernet sauvignon, or as it’s more commonly known, “a slab and a cab.” There are many dos and do-nots in the wine pairing world: White wine with fish, red wine with red meats, congruent pairings, complementary pairings, match fatty foods with tannic wines, have wine that is sweeter than the dessert you are having; it’s a lot to take in. Curious by nature, I found myself asking, is this it? Am I constrained by the established prison of what I can and cannot drink with what foods?

Through my journey through wine and food, I have found a simple yet liberating answer.

There’s a pairing in there somewhere.

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It was recently a close friend’s birthday, so as anyone does, the close group made plans to visit an Italian restaurant that we all love dearly. The ambiance of this place is unmatched, with a beautiful menu, live music, and most importantly: a corkage fee. What wine nerd doesn’t love bringing their own bottle in, creating their starting pairing for the night before any eyes have a chance to even glance at the menu. My friend in question loves the winery Krupp Brothers, a Napa Valley staple and the original groundbreaker of the famous Stagecoach Vineyard. I picked out a 100% Petite Verdot single-varietal bottle. An enjoyable and funky “cork dork” bottle that is led with bright floral components, big in body, high tannins, and just enough acid to give it an addicting bite. Perfect for the traditional hardy Italian dishes we planned to order. Our thoughts of fantastical pairings were soon cut short as I pulled at the restaurant’s

front door only to be met with a resistance of movement. It was Monday, and with all the planning and excitement around dinner, the knowledge that the restaurant was closed on Mondays had missed us. It was a disaster. As we scrambled through restaurants near us that had a corkage fee, we found that a sushi restaurant we all love had the corkage fee we were seeking. However, the daunting thought of light fishfocused dishes and a dark red wine seemed to loom over us. It was 7:00 pm on a Monday in Texas, so leaving the wine in the car was out of the question, less we return to vinegar. My friend suggested, “Well, we don’t have a lot of time, but if we rush, we can head home and grab a Riesling instead; we will just have to have a quick dinner.” I smiled in response. I had no such idea of grabbing a new wine or leaving this one to waste under the Texas heat. After all, there are no food pairing chains on me.

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Aging a Cigar STORY BY MAXIMUS REGAL

Experienced cigar enthusiasts know well the pleasures of a well-aged cigar. The subtle flavors and complex constitution of a well-aged cigar is indescribably and unforgettable. Like wine, many cigar aficionados swear by the process of aging. A great cigar, the argument goes, is an aged one.

How can you attain a well-aged cigar that provides the mellow, complex flavors you crave? You can always fork over a good deal of your money and purchase a box of expensive vintage cigars. If you would rather save the money and experiment with aging on your own, here are a few tips to help you get started.

OTLPHX / CIGARS

First, know that you will have to be patient if you want a properly aged cigar. You will have to age your cigars for about a year to get the flavors and complex subtleties of a well-aged cigar.

To achieve the rewards of a well-aged cigar; you must begin the process with a high-quality cigar. If you try to age a lower quality cigar, chances are any amount of aging won’t improve their flavor significantly. Many high-quality cigars that you find too strong or odorous are perfect candidates for aging. In fact, almost all high-quality cigars

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can be improved through the process of aging.

To age your cigars, purchase a good quality humidor. Cigars must be stored in a constant and stable environment. Follow the 70-70 rules. That means the humidity must be at a constant humidity of 70%, and at a temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Of course, the environment in which they are stored is crucial. Follow the usual 70-70 rules for temperature and humidity. Anymore and your cigars will get moldy; any less and the aging process begins to be stunted. Maintaining a stable environment for your cigars is key - a constantly fluctuation environment can be disastrous. Swings in temperature and humidity cause cigars to expand and contract, cracking their wrappers and it may disrupt the aging process. Ideally, the space in the humidor should be about twice the volume of cigars. The lining should be cedar - cedar wood is highly aromatic wood, full of its own oils. With the passage of time, the interaction of the tobacco oils amongst themselves, and with the cedar oil of the wood it leads to a mellowing and blending of flavors resulting in that subtle complexity you can only get from proper aging.