HORIZONS
FUN FACT:
The name “Shangri-La” originated in author James Hilton’s 1933 novel Lost Horizon. He described it as an imaginary, beautiful place where everything is pleasant and you can get everything you want.That’s Shangri-La. This newsletter is named “Horizons” in honor of Hilton’s novel.
MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO
In the five-plus years I have been honored to serve as President & CEO at Shangri-La Resort, I have enjoyed some of the most pleasurable and proud moments of my life – with some of the most incredible people I have had the pleasure to meet. I am so grateful, not only for our awesome staff, but especially for the outstanding people who have become a part of our growing membership at Shangri-La.
I am especially grateful for the patience shown by our members as we took giant steps forward in the world of technology, both with our new member billing and bill payment system and many new internal systems that will ease the pains of incredible growth at Shangri-La. As with all new systems, there were issues with implementation that resulted in obstacles for the Shangri-La team and confusion for our members.
We have spent a lot of time with technical teams working out bugs and learning the new systems, and we are confident that most of the issues have been resolved. Your billing information should now be correct and available going forward. Your billing should be correct at this point, and we would appreciate your help in making prompt payment of any outstanding balances. If you still have questions, please contact our accounting department.
I am excited about the new benefits we are offering our members, including discount travel to sister resorts through the Crescent Collective as well as the 15% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages for our members at all Shangri-La food & beverage venues. We take great pride in the value of membership at Shangri-La, and I join the entire team in expressing my gratitude for your continued support.
As we move into the autumn months, we have plans in place for some outstanding events. First off, I hope you will mark your calendars to join us for our Member Appreciation Party Saturday evening, October 5 on Doc’s Patio. We’ll have food, beverages, club information, a great band, and a wonderful evening of camaraderie with fellow members. That’s a part of our “Killer Weekend” at Shangri-La which kicks off Friday night, October 4 with a return engagement by Killer Keyz, the dynamic dueling pianos show who performed last year to rave reviews from everyone who attended. Sunday afternoon, October 6 is our annual “Courage Under Fire Classic” golf tournament benefiting the incredible team at the Monkey Island Fire Department.
And that’s just one weekend! We’re also planning a Shangri-La Celebrity Golf Shootout at The Battlefield October 25-26, a Fall Festival at the Battlefield the evening of October 26, a great Murder Mystery Dinner November 2, Thanksgiving Dinner at Doc’s, our popular Black Friday Seafood Extravaganza at the Summit, and two Sunday afternoons of Grand Lake Christmas Celebration with wonderful holiday music December 15 and 22 in the hotel lobby. In addition to our Members’ New Year’s Eve Wine Dinner at The Summit, we are adding a fabulous “Studio 54 New Year’s Eve Party” following (9:00 p.m.) in the Roosevelt Ballroom with a fantastic show band – Avenue – along with lots of food, beverages, and celebration of another great year ahead.
I am so privileged to be associated with such an outstanding team and the best group of members in the world. Thank you for being such an important part of the Shangri-La Family!
Barry Willingham President & CEO
Barry.willingham@shangrilaok.com
FROM OUR GENERAL MANAGER
It’s my honor to welcome you to the new elevated edition of the Horizon’s newsletter, which is scheduled to be published four times per year, featuring member news and upcoming programming for our valued members and resort guests.
My wife and I are thrilled to be here and have enjoyed integrating into the local community after spending several years in Hawaii. We are thankful for the many new member friendships we have made and look forward to connecting with more of you this fall. If I can ever be of service please feel free to contact me directly at the email provided below. I look forward to connecting with you.
Part of the splendor of being at Shangri-La Resort is enjoying the myriad of amenities available to our Club members and for those looking to join our Club I would like to give a brief overview of all we have to offer:
Shangri-La is a full-service resort featuring 45 holes of golf – a 27-hole Championship Course and an 18-hole Par 3 Course which has caught the attention of golf writers and players from throughout the nation.
In addition to golf, amenities include 10,000 square feet of versatile meeting space in our 119-room resort hotel which features a spectacular resort pool, tanning ledge, hot tub, and splash pad, in addition to an indoor pool. Our medical spa is adjacent to a fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, as well as a steam room and sauna.
The Anchor activity park includes a popular sports bar, as well as a complete arcade featuring both traditional arcade games as well as virtual reality games, a simulator bay offering LaserShot shooting and Trackman golf. We also have more traditional games such as pool, shuffleboard, ping-pong, darts, and foosball in addition to Wiffleball® at our unique mini-Fenway Park at The Anchor, along with basketball, sand volleyball, cornhole, pickleball, and tennis at The Racquet Club.
Our fabulous Legacy of Liberty Memorial Park includes a wide variety of original WW II equipment and tributes honoring the veterans whose valiant efforts provided us with the freedoms we enjoy as Americans today.
Multiple dining & drinking venues including exclusive fine dining at The Summit Restaurant, casual dining at Doc’s Bar & Grill, The Monkey Grind Proudly Serving Starbucks®, The Galley at The Anchor, Eddy’s Lakeside Bar and The Pool Bar (both operated seasonally), as well as The Canteen at The Battlefield and the Turn House at the main clubhouse, give our members a wide variety of choices.
Boat and personal watercraft rentals, yacht charters and seasonal parasailing adventures are available at Sail Grand located at Shangri-La Marina.
Shangri-La offers several different membership options, each of which provides exclusive access to some amenities and member discounts at others. I sincerely hope one of them is a perfect fit for you. If you are not already a member, I look forward to having you as a member of the Shangri-La Resort family.
To our valued members and welcome guests, we are always here to enhance your experience where elevated service, and a warm welcome will make you feel you are far away from the hustle and bustle of ordinary life. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Sincerely,
Lance Funderburk General Manager Lance.funderburk@shangrilaok.com
The Legacy of Liberty WW II Memorial Park
AT SHANGRI-LA RESORT IS A GREAT GRAND LAKE ATTRACTION
Shangri-La Resort this year stepped up its game honoring heroes of World War II. Adjacent to The Battlefield Par 3 Course which is already an amazing tribute to heroes of The Greatest Generation, the resort in 2024 opened The Legacy of Liberty Park as an additional tribute to Oklahoma’s incredible World War II Veterans.
The park features a life-size exact replica of the statue of Marines raising the American flag on Iwo Jima, a special memorial honoring the legendary Native American Code Talkers, and a variety of original World War II equipment – a Jeep, an Ambulance, both a Higgins Boat and a DUK Boat, a 5” 38 caliber Naval Gun (which weighs an astonishing 47,500 pounds!), a Sherman Tank, M8 and M20 Armored Cars, a Howitzer, and a P-51D Mustang Fighter Plane. In all, a dozen exhibits honor specific Oklahoma heroes of World War II – including the names of the Oklahoma heroes who utilized this equipment to protect the American way of life.
“We can’t do enough to honor the Greatest Generation of brave men and women who fought without reservation to preserve and protect the freedoms we enjoy as Americans,” said ShangriLa President & CEO Barry Willingham. “I hope everyone takes the opportunity to see this wonderful celebration of our heritage of American military strength and dedication,” Willingham concluded.
The Legacy of Liberty Park honors veterans of all five branches of U.S. Military. The park is located adjacent to The Battlefield Par 3 Course at ShangriLa Resort, directly across Highway 125 from Grand Lake Regional Airport on Grand Lake’s Monkey Island. There is no admission charge.
We can’t do enough to honor the Greatest Generation of brave men and women who fought without reservation to preserve and protect the freedoms we enjoy as Americans
-BARRY WILLINGHAM | PRESIDENT & CEO
DIRECTOR OF SALES & CATERING
It speaks volumes for the entire staff at Shangri-La Resort that more than 85% of our groups who hold events at Shangri-La immediately rebook their event for the next year. The word is spreading rapidly. In fact, Executive Meeting Manager McKayla Rutherford was honored recently as the “Gold Medalist” – the Number One performer in Group Sales for the first half of 2024 among more than 100 properties managed by Crescent Hotels & Resorts throughout the United States and Canada.
We take great pride in our efforts to ensure that members and guests at Shangri-La have everything they need to make every visit a great memory. With football season underway, The Anchor is always Grand Lake’s favorite spot for College and NFL Football Watch Parties; but we have some additional special events planned for the Fall months.
Mark your calendars for October 4-6 – it’s a “Shangri-La Killer Weekend” beginning Friday night with the awesome dueling pianos act by Killer Keyz (7:00 p.m. show - $35 admission). Saturday, October 5, members are urged to join us for our annual “Member Appreciation Party” with lots of food & beverages and outstanding entertainment by Fat Cat, the same band who entertained legislators from throughout the state at their annual Grand Lake Getaway. Sunday, October 6, all our golfers are urged to enter a team in our 2nd annual “Courage Under Fire Classic” – a four-player scramble benefiting the fabulous Monkey Island Fire Department.
October 25-26 is another huge weekend. Our Shangri-La Celebrity Battlefield Shootout includes a special dinner event Friday evening, October 25 and a match play shootout Saturday afternoon, October 26, followed by a fun-filled “Fall Festival” for everyone who likes to celebrate a great season and the Halloween holiday. November 2, you won’t want to miss our “Murder Mystery Dinner – Death of a Gangster. ”We’ll have a fabulous Surf & Turf dinner, special hotel rates, and a fantastic professional cast using audience members to solve the murder of a gangster. The $110 ticket includes both the dinner and the show – beginning at 7:00 p.m.
There’s a lot more, though – Thanksgiving Dinner at Doc’s, our Black Friday Seafood Buffet at The Summit, our “Grand Lake Holiday Celebration” December 15 and 22 with Christmas Carol Sing-a-long Fun featuring the fabulous Terry Jordan. Top off your holiday with a “Brunch with Santa” at the Summit Restaurant. Our traditional “New Year’s Eve Wine Dinner” at The Summit is a favorite event for members – and this year, we’re adding a wonderful “Studio 54 New Year’s Eve Party” for all comers in the Roosevelt Ballroom with food, cash bar, and fabulous music by an incredible show band - Avenue. Tickets are $100 for members and $125 for non-members. Our members who join us at the Summit for the New Year’s Eve Wine Dinner will receive complimentary admission to the “Studio 54 Party.”
For association and corporate groups, November 1-March 31 are important dates. During that time frame, our resort doubles as the “Center for Professional Training, Leadership, and Team Development” with Shangri-La President & CEO Barry Willingham sharing his 40 years of training experience with any organization seeking a path to a new outlook, a new attitude, and new skill sets that enable unparalleled communication, vision, and tools necessary to propel attendees to new heights of success.
We love sharing the fun at Shangri-La. Each week we send an informative eblast to our growing database providing important information about upcoming events. If you are not already on the list to receive these weekly updates, please email your name and email address to marketing@shangrilaok.com, and we’ll make sure you don’t miss out. We actively promote our activities on social media – and we provide every resort guest with a weekly newsletter of everything happening at Shangri-La during your stay.
Stay in touch with us so we can stay in touch with you. There’s always something fun and informative happening at Shangri-La Resort. I hope you will join us often.
Dana Able Director of Sales, Marketing & Membership Dana.able@shangrilaok.com
THE SHANGRI-LA SALES, MARKETING & MEMBERSHIP TEAM:
Pictured (from left) Sales Coordinator Jessica Moosmiller, Marketing Manager Shelly Schultz, Executive Meeting Manager McKayla Rutherford, Director or Sales, Marketing & Membership Dana Able, Director of Communications & Government Relations Mike Williams, Group Sales Representative Lori Sparrow, Catering Sales Manager Yvonne Burns, and Executive Assistant Laura Barnes.
WELCOME NEW SHANGRI-LA CLUB MEMBERS IN 2024
Greg & Kelli Caldwell
Broken Arrow, OK
Brandon & Rebecca Danel Grove, OK
Terry & Robyn Ross Grove, OK
Robert and Tredway Medairos Fredericksburg, VA
Adam Fuchs Columbia, MO
Steve Parker & Madison Muschner Joplin, MO
Rick Lawson Fayetteville, AR
David Hansen Afton, OK
Dusty & Arista Lopp Coyle, OK
William & Margo Clark Tulsa, OK
Jason & Chelsea Richards Edmond, OK
James Dunn & Desiree Sedoris Tulsa, OK
Ken & Henri Sabin Tulsa, OK
Drew & Madelyn Sutherland Overland Park, KS
Ed & Robin Alexander Jenks, OK
Jason & Hillary Wilson Amarillo, TX
Mike & Dana Gonce Edmond, OK
Heather & Brandon Dean Afton, OK
Josh Gilles & Teesha Richardson Monkey Island, OK
Lynn & Sherry Nichols Wichita, KS
Vicki Wash Afton, OK
Keith Carnes Afton, OK
Matthew & Linda Mantle
Jordan & Lindsey Chance
Loma Linda, MO
Springfield, MO
Brian & Michelle Stengel Miami, OK
Jared & Kasidy Jeffers
Ketchum, OK
Gregory & Donna Hall
Port Charlotte, FL
Kenneth & Mary Hilbish Pineville, MO
Brandon & Jennifer Lamb Jenks, OK
Mike & Joni Stewart Oklahoma City, OK
Stanley Krusich Jay, OK
Kale Krusich Jay, OK
Mike & Margo Hamsher Afton, OK
Carrie Cizek Afton, OK
Alan & Piper Bain Tulsa, OK
Francie & Joe Koop Nichols Hills, OK
Wes Baker & Kelly Stonestreet Overland Park, KS
Brad & Kristin Lewis Edmond, OK
George & Michelle Drummond Oologah, OK
Vanessa & Bryan Rogers Tulsa, OK
Logan & Jana Coffee Vian, OK
Alissa Bishop Skinner & Joel Hatfield Afton, OK
Eric & Connie Borland Wichita, KS
Jason Montalvo & Danielle Henry Broken Arrow, OK
Rick & Susan Baden Olathe, KS
Rick & Wendy Jensen Overland Park, KS
Terry & Lynn Morrison Edmond, OK
Kevin and Julie Hamilton Pittsburg, KS
Tim Yates and Leslie Barkley Joplin, MO
Jeff Chaney Miami, OK
Hank & Lucinda Jenks Grove, OK
Miguel Barrios & Misty Smith Monkey Island, OK
MEMBERSHIP HAS BIG ADVANTAGES!
Shangri-La Membership carries significant advantages. Our membership options range from full Executive Golf Membership to a special golf membership that includes unlimited play only on The Battlefield Par 3 Course, as well as both corporate and seasonal membership options. Our Resort Membership provides access to a wide variety of amenities other than golf. Each membership option provides exclusive access to resort amenities and member discounts throughout the campus.
In addition to significant discounts on merchandise, all Shangri-La Club members receive advance tee time and dining privileges, preferred reservations and access to a number of facilities exclusive to our members and registered hotel guests – The Summit Restaurant and Buffalo Bar, our state-of-the-art fitness center, both indoor and outdoor pools as well as significant discounts on merchandise at the Golf Shop, The Anchor Racquet Club Shop, The Battlefield Pro Shop, the Marina Ship Store, and Doc’s Bar & Grill, as well as complimentary pickleball tennis, basketball, and Wiffle® Ball access.
Added Benefits in 2024
This year, membership privileges increased significantly with the addition of a 15% discount on all food and non-alcoholic beverages at all Shangri-La food and beverage menus. The discount applies, not only to members, but to guests who accompany them at our wide array of venues.
Shangri-La members who wish to explore other resort properties managed by Crescent Hotels and Resort also receive significant discounts on lodging and golf in the Crescent Collective which includes seven of our sister resorts - The Golden Horseshoe Golf Club at Colonial Williamsburg Resort, The Club at Tapatio Springs Resort, PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, The Club at Horseshoe Bay Resort, Los Angeles Athletic Club, The Club at Inverness, and Stone Mountain Golf Club at Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort.
It’s easy to see why our membership numbers continue to grow. Shangri-La Membership has big advantages!
OCTOBER
WEEKEND Killer AT SHANGRI-LA
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4 | 7PM-10PM
KILLER KEYZ - TOP-RATED DUELING PIANOS
Roosevelt Ballroom
$35 per person ticket price
Room rate | $159 plus tax
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 | 5PM-8PM MEMBER PARTY
Member Appreciation Party with lots of food & beverages and outstanding entertainment by Fat Cat, the same band who entertained legislators from throughout the state at their annual Grand Lake Getaway.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6 | 12:30PM COURAGE UNDER FIRE GOLF TOURNAMENT
This is the 2nd year for this tremendous tournament benefiting the firefighters and first responders at the Monkey Island Fire Department. The four-player scramble format begins with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, October 6. Entry fee is $1,000 per team. There will also be a “Stop, Drop & Roll Horse Race” at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, October 5, the afternoon prior to the tournament. Contact the Golf Shop to sign up for these great events.
MURDER MYSTERY
DEATH OF A GANGSTER NOVEMBER 2 | 6PM | ROOSEVELT BALLROOM
1920 Mafia Murder Mystery - in this married to the mob “event” you’ll never know who to trust. With the two families merging together, someone is bound to lose power...
$110 per person
SURF AND TURF PLATED DINNER
Cash bar
Cocktails start at 6pm
Dinner at 7pm
Dress like the cat’s meow for the mafia wedding. Flapper dresses, zoot suits, feather boas and headbands, pinstriped suits and fedoras all appropriate. Traditional wedding attire is nifty too!
Package -$349 plus tax for dinner for 2 people and a guest room
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4 | 7PM-10PM
Prepare to be captivated by an electrifying musical experience like no other.
$35 per person ticket price
Room rate | $159 plus tax | 2-night minimum | + $50 Resort Credit
PARTY Member
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 | 5PM-8PM
Member Appreciation Party with lots of food & beverages and outstanding entertainment by Fat Cat, the same band who entertained legislators from throughout the state at their annual Grand Lake Getaway.
DIRECTOR OF GOLF
It’s another great day on Grand Lake, and the golf course and facilities are in wonderful shape. As we move through the change in seasons, kids are back to school, college football has taken the stage, and golf in September, October, and November will provide some perfect golf conditions and everyone should be sure to take advantage of this wonderful time of year. I personally want to say, “Thank you!”, to every member and guest for their thoughts, suggestions, and support throughout my first 7 months at this incredible facility!
There is a challenge for every skill level on our 27-hole Championship Course and our highly acclaimed 18-hole Par 3 Course – The Battlefield. Lessons are available from any of our great team of professionals and, if you think your problem is equipment – we’ve got you covered there, as well.
We have some exciting events on the Fall calendar. Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell will once again host his annual “Luau on the Green & Golf Tournament” at ShangriLa September 12-13. The Midwest Chapter of the American Fence Association returns for their annual tournament September 19-20, immediately followed by some fantastic college golf – Missouri Southern State University’s Invitational Tournament September 22-24.
In October, we kick off the month with two fantastic events. October 6 is our annual charity golf tournament – The Courage Under Fire Classic benefiting the awesome Monkey Island Fire Department. It’s a four-man scramble with a fun horse race and great golf fun for an incredible cause. Team entry fees are $1,000 – with proceeds to our amazing first responders. Contact the golf shop to get signed up.
That same weekend, we will host Okie Quota competition October 6-9, followed by a tribute to one of Shangri-La’s most legendary members, the late Toby Keith. This tournament, October 11-13 will benefit the Toby Keith Foundation’s OK Kids Korral, a haven for the entire family as a child with cancer receives treatment.
October 25-26, we’re planning a weekend with celebrity players for a fun Shangri-La Celebrity Shootout at The Battlefield, wrapping up the weekend with our huge Fall Festival for families throughout the Grand Lake Area. In November, we will once again host Shangri-La members for our annual Festivus Party at the Club House (5:00-8:00 p.m. Saturday, November 16), offering a great evening of food, fun, camaraderie and incredible holiday shopping values.
We are continuously evaluating and making improvements to golf programming and operations. New artificial turf for the Clubhouse range has been funded and is in the planning stages. This will allow us to properly maintain our range tee and produce adequate recovery time between range sets. This adjustment will produce beautiful, natural turf on the range tee for the entire season. PXG and Ping will remain a staple of the Custom fittings here at Shangri-La. We will continue to expand our offering for Custom fittings and bring new, exciting technology into the golf department as it becomes available. We have also expanded our club repair slate to include loft and lie adjustments as well as swingweighting of golf clubs to be sure your clubs feel similar throughout your entire set!
It is the best time of year for golf at Shangri-La, named by Golfweek Magazine as one of America’s Best Courses to Play. If you have any questions or would like to sign up for any of our fun upcoming events, please contact the Golf Shop. I look forward to seeing you on the course!
Ryan Snyder PGA Director of Golf Ryan.snyder@shangrilaok.com
DESTINED TO BECOME AMERICA’S #1 PAR-3 GOLF COURSE
IN HONOR OF THOSE WHO SERVED OUR COUNTRY
It’s a center for total rejuvenation
The Spa at Shangri-La! From hair care to skin care – invigorating workouts to relaxing massages, The Spa is the place to revive your outlook – and your look!
Swedish Massage therapy includes couples’ massages as well as body wrap scrubs. Manicures, pedicures, hair care, waxing, laser hair removal and total skin care offerings are all available.
Skin care options include microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, medical chemical peels, and microneedling treatment, including the Morpheus 8 radiofrequency microneedling.
Our Fall special at The Spa at Shangri-La is our “claim to fame “ service - DMK ENZYME THERAPY. This is the ultimate skin detox.
Restore your skin to optimal function with increased circulation, oxygenation, and lymphatic drainage, while simultaneously flushing away toxins and free radicals to stimulate collagen production. A $50 gift voucher is available at the Spa for a discount on the DMK ENZYME THERAPY. Offer ends December 1, 2024.
Much More Than Just a Spa
While the Spa at Shangri-La is open to the public, there are additional benefits available for members and registered hotel guests. Our state-of-the-art fitness center includes all new exercise equipment to fit every training program. We also have recently remodeled our steam room and sauna at the fitness center, and our indoor pool provides an escape for a relaxing swim our participation in our Tuesday & Thursday Water Aerobics classes with instructor Mary Ellen Risinger.
Relax, revive, and rejuvenate with a wide variety of
and beauty options at The Spa at Shangri-La!
MARINA MANAGER
Shangri-La Marina, located adjacent to the resort hotel, is a year-round full service marina open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Beginning Monday, September 30, hours of operation will change to 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday (Closed Sundays & Mondays in the off-season). We will also be closed ThursdaySunday Thanksgiving weekend to allow our crew to enjoy the holiday with their families. Whether the marina is technically open or not, docks and boats will be checked daily to ensure safety and security.
With 229 covered slips available for annual rental to ShangriLa members in a variety of sizes from 24-feet to 70-feet along with personal watercraft ports, the marina offers gasoline and diesel fuel, boating supplies, pump-out facilities (March-October), shower facilities for slip renters, and complimentary WiFi. All rental slips include electricity (including shorepower) and water. Courtesy slips are available for boaters wishing to access the many Shangri-La amenities by water.
The Ship Store offers a variety of apparel, swimwear, footwear, hats, caps, souvenirs, boating supplies, snacks, beverages, and ice, as well as many must-have items like sunglasses, USB cables, smart phone charging cables, and batteries.
Pontoon, tritoon, sport boat, fishing boat, and personal watercraft rentals, yacht charters, and the region’s only parasailing adventures are available seasonally at Shangri-La Marina through the facilities of Sail Grand Waterfront. As the weather cools, rental of personal watercraft will not be available, but boat rentals and yacht charters aboard our 64-foot Bluewater Yacht are available throughout the year. Catering aboard the yacht including availability of a cash bar may be arranged through the resort’s catering department. Parasailing is available only Memorial DayLabor Day. For additional information on rentals or to make reservations, call 918-257-6000 or visit www.sailgrand.com.
Mitch Whitehead
Marina Manager
Mitch.whitehead@shangrilaok.com
MEMBERS CAN ENJOY EVEN MORE BENEFITS!
For Shangri-La members, a special benefit is available via membership in The Shangri-La Boat Club by Sail Grand. This club membership is offered exclusively to Shangri-La Resort members to make rental boat access easy, quick, and with increased availability and extended rental times offered only to members of the Boat Club. Your Shangri-La Boat Club Membership expands the horizons of availability with easy check-in.
Shangri-La Boat Club membership offers personal walk-through orientations, training and safety instruction at your convenience. Our experienced crew will be available to make sure you are comfortable with the variety of watercraft offered by Sail Grand. As a member, you will enjoy express check-in and easy access to your preferred boat each time you utilize a rental to take friends and family on the water. You will enjoy advanced booking options with no pre-payment required and will receive options for flexible extended rental times not available to others. Members will also be offered concierge service including staff refueling to make your check-in and drop-off of rentals totally trouble-free. Cost is only $1,000 per year, and requirements are minimal.You must be a ShangriLa member 25 years of age or older with a valid driver’s license and must sign the liability release form. That’s all that is required for an entire year of trouble-free access to our entire fleet – and with a 10% discount!
IF YOU NEED A NEW BOAT, WE HAVE YOU COVERED
The Nichols Marine at Shangri-La sales docks are packed with awesome new boats. If you’re looking to upgrade, check out the in-stock inventory of new Chaparral, Robalo, Bennington, and MasterCraft Boats. New inventory is available on the sales dock adjacent to the Ship Store. Additional inventory is available at the Nichols Marine Showroom at the causeway entering Monkey Island. There is no shortage of available new inventory. In addition to the ShangriLa/Monkey Island facilities, Nichols has additional locations in Tulsa, Norman, McAlester, and Longview, Texas. Check out the complete inventory of new and used boats available at www.nicholsmarine.com.
Many Grand Lake marinas close for the winter months or are only open on weekends. No matter what your boating needs may be, Shangri-La Marina is one of the few marinas that provides full service year-round.
DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE
As we wrap up another exciting quarter at our resort, I am thrilled to share an overview of our Food and Beverage operations, which continue to thrive and evolve. Our diverse offerings truly cater to every taste and occasion, ensuring that whether you’re here for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, we have something special for you.
Voted the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association’s 2022 Outstanding New Attraction, The Anchor is your go-to spot for delicious pub fare, pizzas, sliders, and nachos. With a vibrant sports bar atmosphere and an arcade, it’s the perfect destination for catching the big game on Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees. Whether you’re here with friends or family, you’ll find a welcoming environment and plenty of entertainment.
For those craving classic comfort food, Doc’s Bar and Grill offers traditional down-home barbecue and juicy burgers with a view that’s hard to beat—overlooking our beautiful resort pool.
Join us for our Happy Hour Specials starting on Tuesday September 3rd from 3 PM – 7 PM. Drink specials will be available Monday through Friday at all venues at the Resort that serve alcohol. You’ll be able to unwind with friends and enjoy great deals on your favorite beer, wine, and cocktails.
We’re excited to announce a special Thanksgiving event this year, featuring to-go orders for your holiday convenience. We will have Thanksgiving-To-Go orders available for pick up on 11/27 & 11/28. Menu and pricing coming soon. We will also have a Thanksgiving Buffet in Docs on 11/28 starting at 11 am.
As the season changes, Eddy’s Lakeside is ready to welcome you until Sunday, September 15 with its seasonal bar and grill, offering stunning views of the Shangri-La marina and Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees. Enjoy refreshing cocktails and light bites while soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds us.
For those seeking an elevated dining experience, The Summit is our superior fine dining establishment located at the clubhouse of our championship golf course. With breathtaking views framed by the lake, it’s the ideal setting for a special night out. Don’t miss our Black Friday Seafood Extravaganza on Friday November 29 from 5 PM – 9 PM where we’ll feature a variety of fresh and delectable seafood options.
If you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up, The Monkey Grind proudly serves Starbucks coffee along with a variety of quick breakfast items. It’s the perfect spot to fuel your day before you hit the links or explore the resort.
To enhance your experience, we’re excited to have rolled out a 15% discount on all food purchases for our members. This initiative is designed to add value to your membership and ensure a positive experience.
Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to serving you in the coming months!
Todd Rodemyer Director of Food and Beverage Todd.rodemyer@shangrilaok.com
THE SUMMIT DOC’S BAR & GRILL
THE ANCHOR GALLEY
EDDY’S LAKESIDE BAR
THE BUFFALO BAR THE TURNHOUSE
SHANGRI-LA FUN FACT
LEGENDS #9 ON SHANGRI-LA’S CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE IS NAMED “ THE MICKEY MANTLE HOLE ” IN HONOR OF THE YANKEE SLUGGER WHO ONCE SHOT AN ALBATROSS ON THIS CHALLENGING PAR 5.
NEW YORK YANKEE SLUGGER
Mickey Mantle
From 1991 through 1994, New York Yankee Slugger Mickey Mantle hosted “The Mickey Mantle Celebrity Golf Classic” at Shangri-La, raising more than $1.2 million for the Make A Wish Foundation and local charities. During his years of play at Shangri-La with his teammates and fellow stars, Mantle once made a double eagle on the hole that now bears his name. That is why that particular hole (Legends #9) is now our Mickey Mantle Signature Hole, and why it is home to the monument placed there as a tribute to the Yankee great.
In 1995, the year Mantle died, famed fellow Hall of Famer Stan Musial hosted the tournament for an additional year. The last round of golf Mickey Mantle played in his life was at Shangri-La in July, 1995. He died August 13, 1995. Mantle famously said that he often wished he had become a pro golfer instead of a pro baseball player.
is all about Fun SHANGRI-LA
As the Director of Recreation at Shangri La, I am thrilled to share some exciting updates and events happening this fall at The Anchor!
THE ULTIMATE GAME DAY DESTINATION
This season, The Anchor is your go-to barcade for all the thrilling Big 12, SEC, and NFL football action! With over twenty televisions including two huge video walls, you won’t miss a single play. Grab your friends, relax with a drink, and cheer on your favorite teams in style!
NEW ARCADE ADVENTURES
We are excited to announce that our arcade has expanded with 12 brand-new games! Whether you’re riding dragons or taking aim at bottles with our realrecoil guns, there’s something for everyone. Plus, test your skills with our new prize-winning games—can you rise to the challenge?
KARAOKE AND TRIVIA NIGHTS
Join our Manager of Fun, Jason Morgan, every Thursday at Doc’s Bar and Grill for an unforgettable karaoke night! Additionally, we’ll be hosting trivia nights in The Anchor with the ever-charismatic Lee Lawson, along with college football watch parties and our winter pool league kicking off in November. And of course, let’s not forget that The Anchor is the ultimate spot for watching the Kansas City Chiefs!
NEW ATTRACTIONS AND AMENITIES
This year, we’ve added an inflatable water park on the Anchor Lawn and cabanas for rental on the pool deck. We have some thrilling surprises planned for 2025, so stay tuned!
PICKLEBALL AND TENNIS
For those looking to stay active, our Head Pickleball and Tennis Pro Levi Kerr has events scheduled nearly every day (except Sundays and Wednesdays). Interested in private lessons? Reach out to Levi at Levi.kerr@shangrilaok.com. Plus, our indoor dome allows you to enjoy tennis and pickleball no matter the weather!
INDOOR GOLF SIMULATOR
Beat the cold and wind with our Trackman golf simulator inside The Anchor’s arcade. It’s the perfect way to practice your swing while staying warm and comfortable!
WIFFLEBALL AND REFRESHMENTS
As the sun sets over Grand Lake, don’t miss out on America’s number one Wiffleball® field. Afterward, grab a refreshing beer from our bar and a delicious bite to eat from our galley—this is truly the place to escape the ordinary!
We’re excited to welcome you this fall for fun and camaraderie. Thank you for being a valued member of our Shangri La community!
Shaun Tune Director of Recreation Shaun.tune@shangrilaok.com
SEPTEMBER-NOVEMBER
EVENTS AT SHANGRI-LA
September 7 | OSU-Arkansas Watch Party at The Anchor (11:00 a.m.)
September 12-13 | Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell’s “Luau on the Green and Golf Tournament”
September 14 | OSU-Tulsa followed by OU-Tulane Watch Parties at The Anchor (11:00 and 2:30)
September 21 | OU-Tennessee Watch Party at The Anchor (Time TBD)
October 4-6 | “Killer Weekend” at Shangri-La | $159 per night room special (2-night minimum includes $50 resort credit)
• October 4 | Killer Keyz Dueling Pianos - $35 pp (7:00 p.m.)
• October 5 | Member Party (5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.) Live Music by Fat Cat
• October 6 | Courage Under Fire Classic golf tournament
October 12 | OU-Texas Watch Party at The Anchor (2:30)
October 25-26 | Shangri-La Celebrity Golf Shootout Weekend at The Battlefield
October 26 | Fall Festival at The Battlefield
November 2 | Murder Mystery Dinner: Death of a Gangster - $110 pp including Surf & Turf dinner (7:00 p.m.) $159 per night room special
November 5 | First night of “Tuesday Trivia with Lee Lawson” at The Anchor (7:00 p.m.)
November 12 | “Tuesday Trivia with Lee Lawson” at The Anchor (7:00 p.m.)
November 19 | “Tuesday Trivia with Lee Lawson” at The Anchor (7:00 p.m.)
November 23 | OU-Alabama Watch Party at The Anchor (2:30)
November 23 | Members’ Festivus Party at the Golf Shop (5:00-8:00 p.m.)
November 28 | Thanksgiving Buffet at Doc’s (11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.)
November 29 | Black Friday Seafood Buffet at the Summit (5:00-9:00 p.m.)
November 30 | OU-LSU Watch Party at The Anchor (2:30)
SAVE THESE HOLIDAY DATES
December 8 | Brunch with Santa at The Summit
December 15 & 22 | Grand Lake Holiday Celebration sing-a-long in the hotel lobby with Cocoa & Cookies Food and Drink specials (2:00-5:00 p.m.)
December 31 | Members’ New Year’s Eve Wine Dinner at the Summit (6:00-9:00 p.m.)
December 31 | “Studio 54” New Year’s Eve Party in the Roosevelt Ballroom (9:00 p.m.) Live dance music by Avenue
ALSO COMING IN DECEMBER Cocoa & Cookies
Food & Drink Specials
DECEMBER 31 | 9PM |
Join us at Shangri-La’s Studio 54 for New Years Eve Avenue will playing current and disco music to keep everyone dancing
Party starts at 9pm
Champagne toast at midnight
Members eating at Summit wine Dinner receive complimentary tickets
Ticket price $125 per person
Member savings applies
Room package - 2 tickets to the party and a room $419 plus tax
GRAND LAKE HOLIDAY:
DON’T MISS A GRAND LAKE
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION!
CHRISTMAS CAROL SING-A-LONG FUN
DECEMBER 15 & 22
2PM-5PM
RESORT HOTEL LOBBY
Lance Funderburk General Manager
Lance.funderburk@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7760
Brett Wisdom Hotel Director Brett.wisdom@shangrilaok.com 918-257- 7732
Cassandra Graham Reservations Supervisor
Cassandra.graham@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7738
Dana Able Director of Sales
Dana.able@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7714
McKayla Rutherford Executive Meeting Manager Mckayla.rutherford@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7779
Lori Sparrow Group Sales Lori.sparrow@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7758
Yvonne Burns Catering Sales Manager Yvonne.burns@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7716
Ryan Snyder PGA Director of Golf Ryan.snyder@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7704
Jerrod Neighbors PGA Head Golf Professional Jerrod.neighbors@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7703
Bradley Jumper Head Golf Professional at The Battlefield Bradley.jumper@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7780
Justin May
Golf Course Superintendent Justin.may@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7725
Todd Rodemyer
Executive Director of Food & Beverage Todd.rodemyer@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7701
John Havens II
Executive Chef & Director of Culinary Operations John.havens@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7717
Julie Morgan
Executive Pastry Chef Julie.morgan@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7715
IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION
SHANGRI-LA STAFF GOLD MEDALIST
Golf Tee Time Reservations (Championship Course)
918-257-7706
Golf Tee Time Reservations (Battlefield Par 3 Course) 918-257-8700
Pickleball or Tennis Reservations at The Anchor 918-257-5205
Doc’s Bar & Grill Reservations 918-257-7777
Summit Restaurant Reservations 918-257-4203
Boat Rental and Yacht Charter Reservations 918-257-6000
Spa Reservations 918-257-7734
ARE
YOU
RECEIVING UPDATES
ON IMPORTANT SHANGRI-LA EVENTS?
Shangri-La’s important events are sent regularly by email. If you are not receiving our emails, please check your “spam” or “junk” folders to make sure they are not being diverted to those email folders. If you are not receiving our notifications, but would like to be included, please email your name and your preferred email address to marketing@shangrilaok.com.
Mike Williams
Director of Communications & Government Relations
Mike.williams@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7730
Shelly Schultz Marketing Manager Shelly.schultz@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7724
Mitch Whitehead
Marina Manager
Mitch.whitehead@shangrilaok.com 918-257-4898
Shaun Tune Director of Recreation
Shaun.tune@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7782
Sarah Roper Director of People & Culture
Sara.roper@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7719
Tami MacDonald-Smith Controller Tami.smith@shangrilaok.com 918-257-7721
Member Profile: Judi Barber
by Mike Williams, Director of Communications
Judi
Barber is a truly impactful and multi-faceted leader – in a wide array of activities and leadership roles. A former teacher, a 19-year public school principal, an Adjunct Professor at OU, Judi (Dr. Barber) concluded her public education career with a five-year stint as Director of Curriculum and Instruction for the Norman Public Schools (K-12). She received her Bachelor of Science in Education, Master of Education, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the University of Oklahoma.
Throughout her career, she continued to impact the education community with incredible accomplishments. She received the University of Oklahoma College of Education Award as Outstanding Alumnus, as well as OU’s Career Achievement Award and the OU Regents’ Alumni Award, and is an inductee in the Oklahoma Educators Hall of Fame.
Continuing a 56-year career in education, she still runs her consulting company, Collaborating for Results, Inc., a company she founded in 2000 following her brilliant career in public education.
“My consulting work now is primarily organizational development for schools,” she says. “There are some pieces in all organizations that need a little extra attention. I look at the organization as a whole, their work, and check their results. It isn’t something that is a one-time thing. It’s an ongoing process.”
She is also active in P.E.O. – Philanthropic Education Organization – an organization dedicated to helping women around the world advance through education, although her latest community venture has captured a great deal of her “spare” time.
She supports many far-reaching organizations, but one has captured her attention more than others lately. In February 2021 she founded the Grand Area Creative Alliance (GACA) which has dominated much of her attention recently.
“The Grove and Grand Lake community has been changing slowly over the past few decades, but in recent years, the community has begun to change rapidly; and I
believe for a community this size, there has to be some creativity to have some spark – some vitality. Through the efforts of GACA, we have an opportunity to make sure that creativity doesn’t happen haphazardly. It’s not just arts. It’s new ideas. It’s new businesses. It was very clear to me that collaboration provides strength,” she says.
The efforts have been highly successful including work on the recent “Flags for Freedom” project on Monkey Island, promotion of the arts – both fine art and theater - and her work enhancing Christmas programs and holiday decorating plans.The organization’s first monthly meeting hosted four people. Today, each meeting hosts 25+ attendees, all with the goal of identifying innovative creativity and spotlighting it! Success has been so overwhelming that the Grove Area Chamber of Commerce this year honored Judi as Community Volunteer of the Year.
“That honor was maybe a little sooner than it should have been,” she laughs. “But I’m certainly honored –and grateful. It proves the Creative Alliance is catching attention, and I think that’s important for our area.”
Judi Barber is unafraid of challenges. Usually her tenacity prevails, but sometimes things don’t work out.
“My son and I were in France, waiting for a train several years ago,” she recalls. “A young lady came up to my son and began a rapid-fire conversation with him – in French. He finally managed to make her understand that he didn’t speak French. Once she realized that, her response was quick – ‘oh well, then.’ That has become my motto in life,” Judi laughs. “If you attempt something that doesn’t work out – oh well, then – we just move on.”
When she’s not consulting with school districts, spearheading more community support ventures, or promoting the arts, Judi is on the golf course. “I’m passionate about golf,” she confesses. “I got that from my Dad, I guess. He played on the KU golf team in college, and always played every week – at least. I’m not necessarily good at it, but I’m totally addicted.”
Judi is past president of the Shangri-La Women’s Golf Association (two or three times) and handles planning for “away” games for the group. She organizes activities for the entire Interclub Association (including Shangri-La, Hillcrest in Bartlesville, Indian Springs in Broken Arrow, Owasso Golf and Athletic Club, The Patriot Golf Club in Owasso, and Forest Ridge Golf Club in Broken Arrow) and coordinates play with the Women’s Oklahoma Golf Association.
“We’ve nurtured the Women’s Golf Association and the Interclub Association and protected them,” Judi says with pride. “I believe, if you want something to work, you have to protect it and urge it forward. Things that are done haphazardly just don’t seem to have longevity.”
Love of Grand Lake is not a recent commitment for Judi. She spent much of her youth growing up at Grand Lake.
“I split my life between my mom & dad and my aunt & uncle when I was growing up,” she explains. “My Aunt was 10 years older than my mother, and they didn’t have any children. My mother said she would share me with them – and she did. My aunt & uncle had a bakery in Columbus, Kansas. They moved to Grand Lake in 1956 and bought 100 acres on Grand Lake’s Carey Bay. A lot of that property we cleared by hand. And that property is where I have my home now.”
Judi loves to travel. France is one of her favorite destinations out of a host of choices she has visited throughout Europe and Central America, most recently, a 10-day trip to Greece. Obviously, she enjoys the arts and travels several times a year to enjoy presentations by the Tulsa Performing Arts.
Despite her community activities, her educational development work for school systems, and involvement in promotion of the arts, her commitment to golf and Shangri-La Golf Club remains intact. She and her late husband, Dennis, became members in 1998, and stuck with their membership through the difficult years, and the re-emergence since the purchase of the club by Eddy Gibbs in 2010. Through the years, she has seen complete reconstruction of the Championship Golf Course, development of the Club House, Resort Hotel, The Anchor, The Battlefield Par 3 Course and club house, and the Legacy of Liberty WW II Memorial Park. Judi couldn’t be happier about the developments she had seen. She couldn’t help but reminisce a little as she gazed at the busy resort pool through the windows of Doc’s Bar & Grill.
Shangri-La is an incredible facility. I’m so glad we stuck with it through all the bad times. And I’m especially glad I’m here to enjoy all the good times!
- Judi Barber
Judi Barber
