IRONS & WOODS coming this fall to Long Grove IL., on Rt. 53 North of Lake-Cook Road. HDGolf Simulators, Slots and more things fun. Golf season is now all-year round  _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, and on Linkedin or Facebook. With the Bayou Rum alliagtor in Lake Charles LA.

SORRY TO HAVE BEEN AWAY so long. It wasn’t the plan.

My outstanding week in Lake Charles LA., a great growing community, with the strength of Casino’s, Golfing and more was given a bad taste with issues of getting home.

I had to connect via Dallas-Fort Worth airport, now my least favorite in America. Where I got to spend a night courtesy of American Airlines, at Gate C28. No fun at all. Neither is the DFW airport. But if you like the monorail at Disney World, you might enjoy DFW. Because everytime you switch a gate, you have to get on the skyrail and go several stops. It’s not the first time AA has messed up a flight, or given me fits getting my clubs back. And they did it again. Special thanks to the Friendly Skies of United for finally getting us home. Better late than never.

THE HIGHLIGHT was visiting Lake Charles Louisana, a really neat community that is now growing all the time. Population now over 100,000 and growing. Need gas, Shell was $2.16 a gallon, as compared to $2.89 here in Illini-taxland when I left for O’Hare.

In the next couple of weeks, I’ll have much more to report on when it comes to Lake Charles in the next couple of weeks. Besides playing three great courses, much of the food is really really good as well. Toss-in some brew pubs and the Bayou Rum Distillary, and you have drinks that are cold and tasty.

THE BUILD-OUT is on at the French Lick Resort, where the LPGA Sr. Women’s Championship is coming from October 13-16. Golfers on Golf will be there to capture all the action, and post daily recap stories. Tickets and more details at Frenchlick.com.

THE WWGA holds it’s annual luncheon this week at the Glen View Club. Hall of Famer Beth Daniel is this years “Woman of Distinction” award winner, more from Daniel right here later this week.

Schaumburg Golf Club has opened 18 holes from renovation, with the final 9 holes under construction now. Find out more all fall long about the Schaumburg Golf Club all fall long. Schaumburggolf.com or call (847)-885-9000 for tee times.

TOMORROW THE PGA of America and the R&A bring the captains of next years Ryder Cup, to Whistling Straits for a 8 AM presser. Team Europe’s Padraig Harrington and Team USA’s Steve Stricker will photo op with the Ryder Cup, and take questions from folks like me. Hear more right here on the site this week.

It will be so interesting to see what players make the team. And if the USA can win the cup back, after a terrible loss last year in Paris France.

Besides Ryder Cup details, I will have more about what’s up in the world of golf at KemperSports management, from their annual invitational tomorrow at the Glen Club. The weather is great, Go Play. RS.

IRONS AND WOODS COMING THIS FALL TO LONG GROVE IL. on Rt 53 North of Lake Cook Road. HDGolf simulator bays, slots & more Year round golf season is here.   _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follopw Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin and Facebook. With new Cog Hill GM Troy Newport.

HAPPY MONDAY EVERYONE, and for me it’s time to golf away.

I’m off to see new golf courses, always a good thing in Lake Charles Louisana.

My boss Val Russell of Chicagoland Golf will be along on the trip. BTW pick up your fall issue of Chicagoland Golf, at your favorite club or golf retail store.

I’ll have more this week from Lake Charles, and a recap of my visit last week to Cog Hill. Stay clicked in.

  IRONS & WOODS opening this fall in Long Grove IL., North of Lake Cook Road on Rt. 53. HDGolf simulators, slots, and fun. Golf season all year round at Irons and Woods.     _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Facebook, Linkedin. On the bridge at the Preserve at Oak Meadows.

IT STARTED with a fire, that ended a piece of history.

When the Oak Meadows clubhouse  burned down in 2009. Little did anyone know, what the events of that day would bring. Finally, that picture has become a little more clear.

Besides the insurance settlement that came months later, and with the help various grants. A new Oak Meadows in the Village of Addison has evolved.

So new, that even the name is different.

The Preserve at Oak Meadows, replaces Oak Meadows. And the golf course renovation by architect Greg Martin, is now mostly completed. So it’s time for the next phase to begin.

On Tuesday, the heavy equipment started moving dirt. Soon after DuPage County Forest Preserve District President Daniel Hebreard, Executive Director Ed Stevenson, and the members of the districts board of directors, turned over shovels full of dirt. And launched the construction phase for the clubhouse.

Members of the DuPage County Forest Preserve District board of commissioners, led by President Daniel Hebreard (L) start the ground breaking for the new Preserve at Oak Meaodws clubhouse.

Forest Preserve District board members, were joined by officials from the Village of Addison, and a team from Pepper Construction for the ceremony.

The clubhouse architect Daniel Wohlfeil, was present for the ceremony. Afterwards, he told Golfers on Golf during an exclusive interview. That the Preserve at Oak Meadows Golf Clubhouse, will likely be his last clubhouse design.

Wohlfeil has been doing golf course clubhouse work extensively for 11 years, and he is now ready to pursue other career interests.

Click here, to hear the interview with architect Dan Wohlfeil. On the new Preserve at Oak Meadows Clubhouse.

DuPage County Forest Preserve District Board President Daniel Hebreard, speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony.

Hebread is extremely excited about the next phase for the Preserve, and the new clubhouse.

Complimenting everyone involved, Hebreard feels the board “got it right.” With all area’s of the new clubhouse, and the golf operation at the Preserve.

The board of commissioners approved the golf cart fleet, to be solar-powered. The first of it’s kind, for any golf course in America. The renovated cart barn, will be equipped with solar panels to collect energy.

The style of windows on the clubhouse, will help lower the amount of bird strikes. That cause injury to birds, that fly into the sides of the building.

Click here, and hear the interview with Forest Preserve District board president Daniel Hebread.

  The foundation work on the clubhouse, started after the ceremony concluded (L). Clubhouse architect Dan Wohlfeil, and DuPage County Forest Preserve District Executive Director Ed Stevenson (R).

The Preserve reopened for limited preview play in 2017. And it’s first full-season was in 2018. Illinois PGA pro Jamie Nieto, became the head golf professional this spring.

Click here, to hear an interview with the Preserve’s head golf professional Jamie Nieto.

With good weather during the construction process, Hebreard is hoping the clubhouse can be open by late August of 2020. But he admits, that a September date is a more likely.

For information on the clubhouse, and golf at DuPage County golf courses, visit DuPagegolf.com. For tee times at the Preserve, call (630)-595-0071.

IRONS & WOODS opening this fall in LongGrove IL., on Rt. 53 North of Lake-Cook Road. HDGolf simulators will allow golfers to enjoy golf year round. Slot and more #fun   _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin or Facebook. In the Donald Ross Rocking Chair at the Ross House in Pinehurst NC.

ONE WOULD HAVE TO WONDER what Donald Ross would think about the new look in Pinehurst.

Besides the recent opening of the Manor Inn, there have been many other projects around the Pinehurst Resort.

So if you didn’t see our story from last Friday, about the Manor Inn, I invite you to check it out. So many good things happening in Pinehurst and at the Resort, that it’s a must visit for any golfer who loves the game. No many how times I visit, I can’t wait to get back.

You can visit now and enjoy the Donald Ross golf package starting at $1,248 per-person, or the 1 round of golf one-night bed and breakfast package in the $400 range. Call Pinehurst at (844)-465-2415 today, and set up a great fall trip.

Frenchlick.com

SPEAKING OF GREAT RESORTS, there is great news coming from the French Lick Resort., in French Lick Indiana.

Sports book betting has arrived. Do you want to bet golf, or the Bears games, or maybe even some Cubs playoff games. Because now you can.

So are you getting tired of not being able to do it in Illinois. Head off to Indiana and bet at the French Lick Resort. Because you can enjoy golf on the Pete Dye and Donald Ross golf courses, then hit the casino and sports book for more gaming action. Plan your stay at Frenchlick.com. And don’t forget the Sr. LPGA Championship is coming up October 14-15-16. This tournament is fun to watch. Besides Chicago’s and Mistwood golf clubs very own Nicole Jeray, is in the field.

DuPagegolf.com

I’m looking forward to attending the ground breaking tomorrow, for the new clubhouse at the Preserve at Oak Meadows.

It’s been over 10 years since the fire took down the old classic clubhouse. And tomorrow, the dirt starts turning over to build the new one.

It will be next September before the new clubhouse is open for business, but Dan Wohlfiel’s design should be one that golfers will enjoy when the come out to play golf. Details at DuPagegolf.com.

More great news from DuPage Golf, the annual Rambo Scramble is now scheduled for Saturday October 12th at Maple Meadows. Challenge your game against the toughest of pin placements. Sign up today at DuPagegolf.com.

IT WAS GREAT TO HEAR over the weekend, that all the golf courses in Myrtle Beach  South Carolina have reopened from the rain water that got dumped in the area, from Hurrican Dorian. So now comes better news that the Myrtle Beach Golf World Amateur is donating over 1,000 polo-golf shirts and pullovers, to the relief efforts going on in the Bahama’s. A great gesture by the folks involved in Myrtle Beach golf.

THE FIRST COLLEGE TOURNAMENT was played at the new Sage Run Golf Course at the Island Casino in the UP of Michigan. I played there last summer And it’s a wonderful course designed by Paul Albanese, who did the original Island Casino golf course. James Piot from Michigan State won the tournament with a 9 under par score. Liberty University won the team championship by 1 shot over Purdue. Michigan State was 5th. To book your stay and play, see Islandresortandcasino.com.

THE NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY Windon Memorial Invitational is underway today at Conway Farms in Lake Forest. Northwestern heads up a field of 14 schools, that includes several Big Ten teams and defending champion Marquette University. And final round play concludes on Tuesday.

THE ILLINOIS MEN’S GOLF TEAM ended up in 9th place in the Maui Jim Invitational in Arizona over the weekend. Freshman Jerry Ji in his first tournament, shot a 6 under par score for 54 holes to lead the Illini. Ji’s first round was a 7 under par 63.

IT’S ALWAYS GREAT TO HEAR A GOOD HOLE-IN-ONE STORY. And today’s story goes to Lee Welch from Burr Ridge. Welch nailed his driver on the par 4, 15th hole at Old Oak Country Club, 272 yards and into the cup for an ace. Haven’t heard many hole-in-one stories on a par 4 lately. Congratulations Lee, you now owe me a drink.

CONGRATULATIONS to 57 year old Jeff Ott for winning the Illinois State Senior Amateur Championship at Westmoreland Country Club.

GARLAND LODGE AND RESORT in Lewiston Michigan is offering a month of Birdies and Birdies. Besides Golf, you can enjoy Pheasant Hunting as part of a partnership with the nearby Bourbon Creek Ranch. Details at GarlandUSA.com or by calling (877)-442-7526.

BMW CHAMPIONSHIP winner Justin Thomas, announced on social media he too has had surgery on his leg. After Tiger Woods and Dustin Johnson had knee surgery, Thomas had surgery for removing a cancerous growth out of the calf area of his leg. Best wishes on a speedy recovery JT.

THE SOLHEIM CUP…Team USA had it, then they didn’t. Give Team Europe’s Suzann Petersen credit for making the winning putt on the18th green. A captain’s pick since she had not played much recently while expecting a child. The 38 year old, announced after sinking the winning putt, she would retire.

Give USA Captain Julie Inkster credit for getting her young team close, and only falling a 1/2 point short. But Team USA only needed a 1/2 point in it’s last three matches and got nothing ZERO. Veterans Morgan Pressell, Danielle Kang and Lexi Thompson, didn’t add much over three days. But many of the young Team USA members should be tough to beat in the years ahead. Exciting TV at the end, but bad loss for Team USA.

Over 95,000 fans showed up for the week, a record for women’s golf in the UK. The 2021 Solheim Cup will be played at the Inverness Club in Toledo Ohio.

The Gog Blog returns this week. RS

GOLFERS ARE YOU READY- FOR IRONS & WOODS opening this fall in Long Grove IL. on Rt. 53 North of Lake Cook Road. HDGolf simulators and more. #yearroundgolf.    _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin and Facebook. On the North Course at Eagle Ridge in Galena IL.

IT’S BEEN A ROUGH WEEK for those courses in Lake County Illinois. So many of them this week received 5-7 inches of rain.

Because of that amount of rainfall, some courses have had to be closed, or go without carts. Golfers on Golf wishes them the best in getting reopened, and back up to full speed this week.

ILLINOIS MENS GOLF. The schedule is out. Coach Mike Small says the teams mission statement remains the same this year. “We will play against the best competition and on the most respected golf courses in America, and our fall schedule backs that up,” said Small. “Our players will have an opportunity to build a resume against the nations top golf programs.”

The Illini start the seson at the Maui Jim Invitational in Scottsdale AZ.. After Round 1 Illinois sits in 4th place, but Freshman Jerry Ji from the Netherlands, leads the championship after a first round 7 under par 63. In Round 2, Ji shot a 2 under par 68, Ji is now third place. Illinois fell back to 10th place.

Coach Small said,” the team came out flat and that does not sit well with the coach staff.” Small added he expects the team to come out strong in the final round, and finish the tournament strong.

Illinois has it’s own invitational at Olympia Fields next weekend Friday-Sunday, 11 ranked teams in the top 30 will compete. October 14-15 the Illini will compete at the Crooked Stick Intercollegiate in Carmel IN., October 20-22 is the Tavistock Collegiate in Windermere FL. The final fall event is the Cypress Point Classic in Pebble Beach Cal. on October 28-29.

PINE MEADOW GOLF CLUB in Mundelein has reopened from heavy rainfall, and has carts out. Greens have been cut and rolled, bunkers might still be washed out. For details call (847)-566-GOLF. Or visit Pinemeadowsgc.com.

The Illinois practice facility, for both men’s and women’s teams.

The University of Illinois Women’s Golf Team, will have three new events this fall says Coach Renee Slone.

“These new tournaments will certainly test the players and enable us to grow and develop,” said Slone.

#16 Illinois opens their fall season this weekend in Toldeo, at the Glass City Invitational. October 27-29 Illinois heads to Oklahoma for the Schooner Fall Classic. And October 8-9 Illinois will host it’s own invitational at Medinah Country Club, on it’s recently renovated Course No.2. Illinois closes out it’s fall schedule from October25-27 at the Landfall Tradition hosted by UNC-Wilmington. The spring has the Illini women playing in five tournaments before the Big Ten Championships at TPC River Bend in Ohio, April 24-26.

Illinois has three players that have been named, BIG TEN players to watch. They include Tristyn Nowlin, Kornkamol Sukaree, and Crystal Wang.

  CLUB CHAMPION and PXG GOLF are working together and offering FREE 0211 Iron Trials. Golfers you have 30 free minutes to test the new PXG 0211 Irons. Club trials by the nation’s largest clubfitter, builder and retailer. Golfers have access to over 200 iron shaft options, and Trackman swing analysis technology.

Club Champion has over 60 locations nationwide now including Schuamburg Illinois, located of course on Golf Road.

“A trial at Club Champion seemed like an incredibly effective way to show off the performance and feel of our brand new PXG 0211 Irons,” said PXG founder and CEO Bob Parsons. “Their fitting expertise and technology are an ideal combination for showcasing the outstanding new club technology we’ve created.”

The new PXG 0211 irons gives golfers the PXG high standard of quality, while delivering a price tag at under $200 per clubhead.

“Club Champion is one of the few fitters than can offer PXG to it’s customers, and we’re excited to bring the 0211’s into the mix,” said Nick Sherburne, founder of Club Champion. “These new irons bring the sough-after PXG craftmanship to a wider range of golfers, and this trial is a great way to demonstrate their performance.”

Hurry because the deadline is coming soon. Call Club Champion at (888)-340-7820, and ask about the new Club Champion financing program. Customers now have up to 18 months to pay.

TOPGOLF is expanding around the globe.

Dallas based Topgolf, a global sports and entertainment community, has now announced plans to expand into central Europe.

Topgolf will now open new venues in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. These venues will be opening over the next several years.

It’s expected that eachvenue will add at least 350 jobs. The expnasion is part of a new agreement between Topgolf and and the Switzerland based Greenreb Ltd. Locally there is no announcement yet on the opening of the new Schaumburg IL. location, on the site of the old Motorola campus. But construction is advancing, and the site looks close to opening. More details at Topgolf.com.

GOLF360 is back on NBC Sports Chicago

GOLF360 is backwith Dave “Links” Lockhart, and former Chicago Bear Patrick Mannelly.

The current edition includes features on the City of Elgin golf courses, the Highlands of Elgin, and Bowes Creek.

Golf instruction from 2015 Illinois PGA Golfer of the Year Bill Abrams. The Kankakee Elks Golf Club and a clinic held at the BMW Championship. Upcoming viewing options include Sunday 9-15 3:30 PM, Monday 9-16 at 5 PM, and Sunday 9-22 at 4:30 PM on NBC Sports Chicago.

The new Callaway JAWS wedges by Roger Cleveland

THE NEW CALLAWAY JAWS wedge line created by designer Roger Cleveland, is now available for pre-order at Callawaygolf.com.

Cleveland who has been designing wedges for over 40 years, has created what he feels are the most aggressive grooves ever built.

They will give golfers better control and exceptional spin, which gives golfers the one-hop and stop results they look for. JAWS wedges for when your wedge shots need to spin. See more at Callawaygolf.com and watch the podcast video with Roger and Dave Neville.

Hampton Cove on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Alabama.

ARE YOU READY to golf away, And golf all day ?

Besides unlimited golf all day long, with range balls and a golf cart. Because you deserve it. So if your ready for a trail full of golf, with 26 courses and over 400 golf holes.

Now is the time to book your golf trip to the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Alabama. So pick up the phone and call (800)-949-4444 today, and make you tee times. Cost is $200 for Ross Bridge. More details at RTJGolf.com.

NEW BALANCE GOLF SHOES getting upgraded again.

NEW BALANCE has announced an upgrade to it’s line of golf shoes.

Because New Balance is bringing a higher level of comfort to all of it’s golf shoes.

First installed in it’s running shoes, Fresh Foam Technology is now been added to golf shoes. With improvement in the Midsole, and around the shoe. Golfers will expeirence a new level of comfort. Available for both men and women starting on October 21st. For more details, see newbalance.com.

The Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook.

THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME and McWethy’s Sports Bar welcomeyou to an exciting weeknd of sports.

So you want college football on Saturdays, the NFL on Sunday. Well McWethy’s Sports Bar is the place to be. It’s your home for the end of basbeall season, with food and drink specials.

So check out the Mistwood Golf Dome and McWethy’s Sports Bar for all the sports action. McWethyssportsbar.com located on Rt.53 in Bollingbrook.

THE U.S. Open Trophy at Erin Hills

THE NEXT U.S. OPEN at Erin Hills in Erin Wisconsin, is six years out, so in the meantime there is plenty of time for you to enjoy the walk around Erin Hills.

So right now go make your reservations for 2020.

Besides that good news, comes the latest way for you to enjoy the range at Erin Hills.

As Toptracer has become a part of the driving range. This Topgolf technology is a great way to practice and monitor your ball flight while practicing. Call Erin hills for this year or next year at (866)-772-4769. Or email reservations@erinhills.com. The new Drumlin putting green is open for play.

GAYLORD BASED KEVIN FRISCH PR-has announced that JoAnne Miller has joined the firm. Miller has worked for years in golf PR, and formerly with Phil Kosin at Chicagoland Golf.

SOUTHEAST GOLF back up and playing. There is great news from the Daytona Beach FL., Kiawah Island Resort near Charleston SC., and from Myrtle Beach SC. All the golf courses have reopened from the heavy rain that feel during hurricain Dorian. Visit websites if you need more information, but all courses are now open for play.

OAKBROOK TERRACE based Zero Friction reminds you that, they have golf clubs with your favorite college and professional football teams logo’s on them. For more details visit zerofriction.com or (630)-317-7700.

THE WINDOW HAS CLOSED to apply for 2020 Ryder Cup tickets at Whistling Straits, good luck to all who applied. RS

  IRONS AND WOODS COMING THIS FALL TO LONG GROVE IL. on Rt. 53 North of Lake Cook Road. HDGolf simulators, interactive sports, slots and more. #golfyearround  ______________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Facebook or Linkedin. Onthe 18th green at Pinehurst No.2. (R) The historic Manor Inn of Pinehurst, has now reopened. (Picture by Rory Spears, of the Manor Inn during the renovation phase in January of 2019).

  THE MANOR INN (L) inside the front door of the Inn this past January. (R) The Inn had it’s windows boarded up during the renovation earlier this year.

The Manor Inn has reopened in Pinehurst and is welcoming guests back after an extensive renovation. The Manor Inn is the youngster of the three Pinehurst Resort Hotels, because it’s only 96 years old.

The historic and “haunted” Holly Inn opened first on New Years Eve, in 1895. It was then followed by the Carolina Hotel in 1901.

THE NEW MANOR BAR (L) AND THE REMODELED MANOR LIBRARY (R). Photo’s courtesy of Alex Podlogar-Pinehurst Resort PR.

The Manor Inn is the latest of a series of project renovations at the Cradle, or Home of American Golf, the Pinehurst Resort.

There have been course improvements on Courses 1,2,3,4, and 5. Most recently on Course #4 with renovation work by Gil Hanse. Hanse and his partner Jim Wagner, along with their Caveman Construction Crew, not only renovated Course 4, but built the fun and very popular 9-hole par 3 course, “The Cradle.”

And off the course, have been the resort additions of a new swimming pool, the Deuce Bar in the main clubhouse behind the famed 18th green of Pinehurst Course No.2. There have been renovations to the Holly Inn and the Carolina Hotel, more recently has been the opening the Pinehurst Microbrewery in the Village of Pinehursts former steam plant.

“Our intention was to improve upon and modenize the guest experience while still preserving the Manor’s unique charm,” says Bob Dedman Jr., Pinehurst Resort’s Chief Executive Officer. “I think we’ve accomplished that in fine fashion.”

The renovation has transformed the Inn’s 43 guest rooms. And the interior has only 15% of the inn’s original framing still intact.

The Manor Inn came to be in 1923, when the Lexington Hotel on the inn’s current location was raised in 1922. And owner Mrs. Erma C. Bliss designed the new hotel, not common for a woman to do during that era. Her vision included new steam heat, an electric elevator, with space for table tennis and card playing, and the early 1950’s saw a TV room added. Arnold Palmer stopped at the inn during his Pinehurst visits.

A Manor Inn bedroom with a King-Sized bed. Photo from Pinehurst Resort.

Bliss’ style of gathering space, has returned as part of the inn’s renovation.

Guests can reserve a hospitality suite for the duration of their stay.

The new North & South bar opens in early December, and will feature craft beer from Pinehurst Brewing Co. in addition to an extensive whiskey selection.

New Memorabilia and photos around the bar, will display the history of the historic North & South Amateur Championship, that has been played in Pinehurst since 1901.  Because a new element of the bar’s design, will be the ceiling, that shows an illustration of the original routing of Donald Ross’ first four Pinehurst golf courses. The map is from 1922, so it coincides with the time period the inn first opened for business.

“Our mantra is simple,” says Dedman. “Always Pinehurst, but always better.”

Pinehurst is only 65 minutes from the Raleigh-Durham International Airport, and 90 minutes from the Charlotte-Douglass International Airport. To book tee times and resort stays or packages, visit www.Pinehurstresort.com, or call (855)-235-8507. It’s always a beautiful day in Pinehurst.

IRONS & WOODS is coming to the Long Grove IL. this fall. Located on Rt.53 North of Lake Cook Road (Behind Menards). HDGolf simulators will power the way to a full year round golf season in the Chicago area. Hold your private function, and enjoy the slots. Stay clicked in here, to follow the build-up and be ready for opening day. #irons&woods  ______________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy and on Linkedin or Facebook. On the 18th green at Sunset Valley in Highland Park.

ABOUT THIS TIME last year Sunset Valley Golf Course was reopening from a Rick Jacobson renovation.

And like most courses when they start welcoming the golfers back for play, after the architect and construction crews are done. There is still need for some grow-in time.

But one year later Sunset Valley looks like it has been back in play for 3 years. It has matured that quickly, and local golfers enjoying the benfits. Play is up and maybe by as much as over 10,000 rounds, from when Sunset Valley last had a full season of golf. General Manager Ryan Ochs says the course renovation, has received a great response from golfers.

The Par 3, 4th hole at SVGC, is considered by many to be the signature hole.

Ochs wrote this message in the 2019 Sunset Valley Golfer Guide.

“As we embark on the 2019 golf season, I would like to extend a huge thank you to our loyal Sunset Valley golfers. We are proud and excited to welcome you back to our first full season of golf at the “new” Sunset Valley. We appreciate your patience and unwavering support through the past two years.

The new course offers challenges to every level of golfer. Because each hole has it’s own unique features, that make you use your creativity as you make your way around the golf course. For your enjoyment, we encourage you to select the proper set of tee’s based on your handicap. After your round is complete, I hope you will stay for a cocktail and a bite to eat at our new 13ninety restaurant to enjoy the breathtaking views of Sunset Valley on the patio.

I look forward to seeing you on the golf course. Hopefully Mother Nature will cooperate, and warm days will arrive. So please remember that our “new” new course is young and maturing. We hope you will help take care of the course by repairing divots and ball marks. See you at Sunset.”

The new Sunset Valley Clubhouse, complete with outdoor patio and comfortable couch seating.

Golf architect Rick Jacobson who oversaw the renovation, was awarded with a 2018 Design Excellence Award. Which is award by the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA).

The facility itself, was honored by the Illinois Park and Recreation Association. Because it received the Outstanding Facility of the Year Award.

The award goes to only one facility from over 2,000 facilities in the state.

The Par 4, 8th hole at Sunset Valley Golf Course.

The clubs 1390 address on Sunset Road, has been used to name the 19th hole. Sunset Valley founded in 1920,  has now announced more improvements.

Ochs was proud to recently announce the club is now adding a new short-game and junior golf practice area.

Jacobson is returning to design the area, and fund-raising for the project is underway. Among the first to step up and support the project, was Illinois Golf Hall of Fame member and former British Amateur Champion Joel Hirsch.

Sunset Valley GM Ryan Ochs (L) and Operations manager Cole Sangren (R), stand by the short game area plan chart, and the fundraising board. In the clubhouse.

Sunset Valley has created special events and programs, to welcome the golfers back.

You can join the Sapphire Club for $100 and earn reward points towards green fees and merchandise for money spent.

How about this, Kids play free. Yes after 5 pm junior golfers 18 and under play free, when joined by a paid adult green fee and cart.

Golfer appreciation day is coming up on Friday September 20th. And with a paid greens fee, you get a free breakfast or lunch and the option of 20% off on pro shop merchandise.

Sunset Valley has become one of the best public courses in the area, so come see what all the enjoyment is by playing the Sunset Valley Golf Course. Located right off the Edens Expressway in Highland Park. Visit sunsetvalleygolfclub.org or call the course at (847)-432-7140.

  IRONS & WOODS will open this fall in Long Grove IL. located on RT. 53 North of Lake Cook Road, behind Menards. With the addition of HDGolf simulators the Chicago area now has a year round golf season. Stay clicked in for updates on the Grand Opening.    _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy and on Linkedin or Facebook.

GOLF SEASON is now headed into the colorful, fall golf season.

It’s always a great time to play, and so the colors are out in full. At times there are deals to be had, and the courses are not quite as crowded. So enjoy the walk, and get the most out of your remaining outdoor swings.

Because of the bad spring, maybe there will be a great fall. So golf season can go into December. That is wishful thinking of course, but until the snow falls. I’ll keep thinking that way.

In the meantime, get out and play. I know I will every chance I can get.

CONGRATULATIONS to Team USA in their 15.5-10.5 come from behind victory in the 2019 Walker Cup, at the Royal Liverpool-Hoylakes links. And it’s the first USA win on foreign soil in years, the 2021 Walker Cup will be held at Seminole Golf Club in Jupiter Florida.

THAT CRAZY PGA TOUR SCHEDULE is drawing more complaints. The Greatest Player of All-Time Jack Nicklaus, called the compressed schedule hurtful to the majority of the PGA Tour events. With a “major-type” event every month, what’s happening is that most players are playing only once in between the big events. So that’s making most of the regular tour stops, a non-stop for major players.

Rory Mcilroy chimed in his concerns over the new schedule. But is there much the tour can do, if they want to stay ahead of the NFL season with their playoffs. I wasn’t a fan of the new condensed schedule, because I still like the PGA Championship in August. It doesn’t seem right having the last major on U.S. soil being the U.S. Open on Fathers Day. And the last major of the year two weeks after the 4th of July.

Can the tour make players at least one a year play in 2 events between majors. Either that or more major support of events before the Players Championship or the Masters. But what happens to tournaments between the majors, that are being made non-significant.

So what can the tour do. I would give those tournaments more Ryder Cup and FedExCup Points for starters in 2020. Could the players who earn the most $$$ between the Players Championship and the week before the FedExCup Playoffs start earn a bonus, and or split money from a pool. Because something needs to be done.

THOSE BAD KNEES both Tiger Woods and Dustin Johnson have had knee surgery since the Tour Championship in Atlanta. It makes you wonder how many more players are playing hurt, or will have some procedure or another done in the weeks ahead. With Woods, it really makes you wonder how much his broken down body can take.

This is fifth reported knee surgery, along with four on his back. But there are reports this was knee surgery number nine. One would have to wonder how much Woods plays in 2020. Will his tour continue, as a farewell tour.

I’M REALLY excited for my Golfers on Golf Radio partner Ed Stevenson, on the announcement by the DuPage County Forest Preserve District that they are ready to break ground on a new clubhouse and visitors center for the Preserve at Oak Meadows. Next Tuesday the 17th will be the ground breaking. Stevenson serves as the Executive Director for the DuPage County FPD.

I played the Preserve golf course this past week for the first time in 16 months, and it has really matured. Get out and play it if you haven’t yet, or if it’s been a while. You will notice a difference.

Today marks a return after almost one year to Sunset Valley GC in Highland Park, to see how that renovation is working out. And how things are maturing there.

It will be around 90 degrees this week, so pull out the sunscreen and go play. See you on the links. The Gog Blog returns this week. RS

IRONS & WOODS coming this fall to LongGrove IL. Located on Rt.53 North of Lake Cook Road (Behind Menards) HDGolf Simulators, slot machines & fun. #yearroundgolf  _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG -by Rory Spears, Director of Conetent and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or Linkedin and Facebook.

TITLEIST GOLF has released several new products, in time to close out the summer golf season.

All of the new products are now in pro shops and golf stores.

So what’s next you asked. Well here is what you get.

The new Titleist TS Hybrids, part of the Titleist Speed Project. These new Hybrids bring a new higher launch, less spin, and increased MOI for added distance.

Titleist TS2 and TS3 Hybrids

These style Hyrbids are “not” considered “rescue clubs” by Titleist. They are now viewed as scoring clubs.

TS2 is the club for golfers with sweeping swings, lookin for high launch and more distance. TS2 has the look of the fairway metal. And TS3’s are for players who hit down the on the ball. TS3 works for players who want the feel or look of an Iron.

“Pretty much every golfer we’ve had test a TS Hyrbid has had the same reaction-these clubs just go,” said Josh Talge, Vice President, Titleist Golf Club Marketing. “TS Hybrids will be the type of club players want to hit.”

Five Titleist PGA Tour staff players have put these clubs in play. AMP is $279.00. visit Titleist.com for details on available lofts on each club and shaft availability.

The Titleist T-Series Irons

Titleist says the #1 Iron on the PGA Tour just got better.

The new T-Series Iron creates better speed, and distance control across the club face.

T100, T200 and T300 models comprise the new line of irons.

T100 is regarded as a players iron, that comes with the signature Titleist feel. Besides the fully-forged cavity construction, is a balanced co-forged, dual-density tungsten. This allows for distance control with stability.

T200 adds a powerful distance concept, with a tour inspired look. The T200 allows for a high launch and stopping power, that makes near misses nearly perfect.

T300 with it’s faster ball speed and preferred feel, allow for maximum forgiveness. The fast cavity-back style provides a high launch, long distance and forgiveness.

“There are three key elements to hitting great iron shots. Dispersion, distance, and angle of descent,” says Marni Ines, Director of Titleist Irons Development, Golf Club R&D. “T-series technology helps players hit the ball longer, and hit their number more consistently. So even when they don’t make a perfect swing, dispersion is tighter so the ball stays on line.”

More than 20 Titleist staff players have put these irons in play on tour, with Jordan Spieth among the first. Using the T100’s.

See Titleist.com since prices per model do vary. Irons and shafts available do give the golfer multiple options.

The Titleist CB 620 Iron.

Titleist has created what they call, irons for purists and shotmakers. The Titleist MB 620 and CB 620 irons keep the Titleist tradition of creating tour-proven shot control, and superior feel in both cavity back and muscle back irons. Now complete with merged profiles for players who mix both styles.

“The ‘600’ designation is credit to our 600 series of forgedblades from the early-to-mid 2000’s,” says Josh Talge. “The designs are from an important part of our Titleist heritage.”

The 620 irons made their debut at the 2019 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach. Seven Titleist staff players have the 620’s in play including two former major champion winners, Webb Simpson and Jimmy Walker.

Steel shafts are $175 per club, with graphite shafts available $187.50 per club with a variety of shafts available.

The new Titleist Tour bag.

This new golf bag made it’s debut on the PGA Tour, at the start of the FedExCup Playoffs.

And it’s the stylish bag used by Justin Thomas during his victory, at the BMW Championship played at Medinah during the playoffs.

The new style and design come from feedback and input, from PGA Tour players and caddies.

The 2020 Jet Black Collection, come with a variety of top notch materials. With the Titleist mix of colors that include Red, White, and Black. “I’m absolutely pumped with the creation of this new bag,” said Thomas. “It’s really slick.”

Thomas is now one of the over 150 players who have used a Titleist Tour Bag on the PGA Tour this year. The tour bag is available now for $550.00, and the full jetblack collection will be available in early 2020.

More information on Titleist golf products at Titleist.com.

IRONS & WOODS COMING THIS FALL TO LONG GROVE IL. on Rt. 53 North of Lake Cook Road (Behind Menards). HDGolf simulators, Slots and more fun. Year Round Golf ______________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by Rory Spears-Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy Linkedin or Facebook. On the second tee at the Preserve at Oak Meadows in Addison.

THE WAIT IS ALMOST OVER.

It’s been over a decade since the clubhouse at Oak Meadows, was destroyed by fire in early 2009.

Since then there has been a call to get Oak Meadows a new clubhouse. And now that day is finally coming.

Last week the Dupage Country Forest Preserve District commissioners, voted unanimously to approve the building of a new clubhouse, and visitors center.

Oak Meadows has been renamed the Preserve at Oak Meadows when the golf course reopened from renovation. The board of commissioners approved the highly regarded Pepper Construction Company as the construction manager for the project. With a “guaranteed maximum price contract” of $12.6 million dollars or less.

The drawing of the purposed clubhouse, created architect Dan Wohlfeil of Wohlfeil Design.

Groundbreaking  for the new facility will be at noon on September 17th. Work will then continue through September of 2020, when the clubhouse and the visitors center will open.

The 18,018 square foot one-story building has been designed by Daniel Wolhfeil. And it will include a restaurant with both indoor and outdoor seating. A multi-purpose event room, outdoor viewing terrace, the golf pro shop, locker rooms, kitchen and office space.

The floor plan for the new Preserve at Oak Meadows Clubhouse and Visitors Center.

Wohlfeil’s design plan for the building includes a reinterpretation of midcentury modern architecture, with angled flat roofs, and transition spaces to mix the inside and outside.

The large expansive windows will allow for scenic views of the golf course. The windows feature an enviromentally sound green roof, that is a bird-safe glass which will reduce the number of birds hitting the glass while in-flight. The building will include LED light system’s, that are in compliance with ComEd’s energy efficiency program.

The new-look solar powered golf cart storage barn.

Another upgrade to the property was the approval by the commissioners, to install a solar powered system to the Preserve’s golf cart storage barn.

The system will power the Preserve’s fleet of 75 golf carts. This landmark decision will make the Preserve at Oak Meadows, the first golf course in the country, with a fully solar-powered fleet of golf carts.

“I am thrilled by the enhancement of this project through solar power,” said Forest Preserve District of DuPage County President Daniel Hebreard. “The new building will be a terriffic venue for events ranging from golf outings to Forest Preserve District education programs. The solar arrays support our organizations mission for all who visit The Preserve.”

The DuPage County Forest Preserve District acquired the former Elmhurst Country Club in 1985, and used the orginal 50,000 square foot clubhouse until the 2009 fire destroyed the building. So there was an immediate call to replace the structure.

But in a plan presented to the commissioners by current Forest Preserve District Executive Director Ed Stevenson, who previously served as the Director of Golf Operations, Stevenson suggested addressing the golf course’s severe flooding problems first. Stevenson’s plan included improving enviromental conditions, and upgrading an aging infrastructure across the Preserve before replacing the clubhouse.

The par 4, 16th hole at the Preserve, the signature hole of the golf course.

The Forest Preserve District elected to adopt the plan. And selected architect Greg Martin, to oversee the course renovation and restoration program.

Work started in 2015, and the course had some preview play in 2017, before a full reopening of play in 2018.

The number of golf holes was reduced from 27 to 18, and now only 15% of the 288 acres at the preserve, is used for golf. The renovation created storage area’s to hold 20 million gallons of storm water, to reduce flooding to the golf course and the surrounding communities.

The Forest Preserve District created 25 acres of wetlands, 43 acres of riparian habitat. And restored 13 acres along the Salt Creek Corridor, to improve water quality and plant and animal diversity.

Since reopening in 2017, the Preserve At Oak Meadows has received awards from numerous golf publications and enviromentalists. Including “Renovation of the Year” from Golf Magazine.

The par 3, 10th green at the Preserve at Oak Meadows.

Golfweek Magazine has named the Preserve at Oak Meadows, the 6th Best Public Course in Illinois. And rated it the No.1 public course in DuPage County.

Golf Digest gave the Preserve it’s Green Star enviromental award, for enviromental development through golf.

Architect Greg Martin received a Design Excellence Award, from the American Society of Golf Course Architects. The American Society of Landscape Architects presented the Preseve with a Merit Award.

“The former clubhousewas a favorite gathering place for nearly a century,” said Forest Preserve District Commissioner Marsha Murphy, District 1. “Since the fire in 2009, the community has been anticipating a place to serve the public and create memories for the next 100 years.”

According to the Forest Preserve District. The Preserve at Oak Meadows and the district’s golf operation, have demonstrated the ability to support operating expenses with golf revenues. But when the new clubhouse is completed, it will help generate additional revenue and financial sustainability, without subsidy from the tax levy. Besides, future golf profits will help support other Forest Preserve District programs.

So for more information on the DuPage County Forest Preserve District, call (630)-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org, for golf news see Dupagegolf.com.