THE 2023 U.S. SENIOR OPEN is June 29-July 2 at Sentry World in Stevens Point Wis. Tickets are still available at USGA.org. Padraig Harrington is the defending champion.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. With the US Open trophy at Erin Hills.

U.S. Open week is here.

Welcome to Los Angeles Country Club and it’s North Course for the U.S. Open.

But the real question is, how many questions during the next two days will be about the U.S. Open. Because I am sure there will be plenty about the LIV Golf-PGA Tour merger.

But while there is plenty of time to discuss that in the days and months ahead, this week is more about the golf. So can Matt Fitzpatrick successfully defend his title, or will there be a new champion.

Because there is always some guessing about what the winning score will be, I will throw this out. It’s very likely to be lower than in recent years. Because the USGA could not get the rough where it wanted the rough to be. Spring weather did not allow for a growth as deep as the USGA wanted the rough, or a rough as thick as it wanted. So maybe the chop it out relief shot, won’t be needed this year.

THERE IS SOME question on how the Par-3 11th hole will play. Because it’s a par-3 than can play almost 300 yards. Seriously, even the world top professionals and amateurs want no part of that set up.

CONGRATS TO JIM MILLER the new head golf professional at Kemper Lakes Golf Club. Former Country Club of Decatur Director of Golf Steve Orrick moves over to Bloomington Country Club, to fill Millers office.

THE ILLINOIS WOMEN’S AMATEUR and the IWGA. The women’s state amateur has started at The Grove Country Club in Long Grove. Day 1 is stroke play. The medalist was Barrington’s Mara Janess, the 2021 WWGA Junior Champion at Aurora Country Club, with 70 (-2). Janess said she made several long putts to seal her round.

Medlalist Mara Janess with dad Scott Janess (L) and runner-up Sarah Arnold (R) who shot a 71 (-1).

But it was putting that cost past Illinois Women’s Open Champion Sarah Arnold the medal. Arnold said it was two missed putts of 4 and 5 feet in the final holes that cost her two key shots. But overall both Janess and Arnold will head out into Tuesday’s round of 32 as seeds 1 & 2 in the match play. Both players feel good about their game and seem confident heading into Day 2.

This years championship is the IWGA 90th, and the organization is closing it’s doors after this year. But word is that the Chicago District Golf Association (CDGA) will take over operation of the event in 2024, let’s hope so.

IT SHOULD BE an exciting week on the golf course, the 61st Radix Cup tee’s off at oak Park Country Club on Thursday. As the CDGA amateurs are the defending champions. But I can wait for U.S. Open week to unfold.

The Gog Blog returns tomorrow. RS

  JIM NUGENT PUBLISHER OF THE GLOBAL GOLF POST (L) appeared on Golfers on Golf Radio and previewed tomorrows edition on Monday June 12th. U.S. Open preview and more on the merge of the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. The ILLINOIS WOMEN’S OPEN on July 24-25 at Mistwood Golf in Romeoville is taking registrations. Mistwoodgc.com.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect-LinkedIn/Facebook/Instagram.

Heritage Oaks head golf professional John Billiter speaks with a golfer at the Titleist Scotty Cameron putting event on Saturday.

OUTDOOR PUTTING TESTING

So when you think about getting a new putter, do you automatically head into a SAM Putt lab for technical data.

But if you do, this weekend there is another option for you to test out. Because you can go outside on the Heritage Oaks putting green, and test several Scotty Cameron models, in real putting conditions, on a real green.

The large putting surface at Heritage Oaks can accommodate plenty of golfers at once. No charge, no appointment needed, visit Heritage Oaks in Northbrook on Dundee Road today between 10 and 2 Pm. Call (847)-291-2351 for more information.

TITLEIST at THE PINE. Pine Meadow Golf Club in Mundelein is hosting a 2024 Titleist Iron fitting day, Wednesday July 19th from 11a to 6p. Details at Pinemeadowgc.com or call (847)-566-4653 (GOLF). So make your appointment now. BUT NOW also at “The Pine” Taylor Stoudt the new club fitter, Fridays and Saturdays from 10-4p. But now through the end of July his normal $100 fitting fee in free. (847)-566-GOLF (4653).

FIGHTING ILLINI GOLFERS Crystal Wang (L) and Tommy Kuhl (R) were part of the winning Team USA by a score of 32-28 over the International Team at the 2023 Arnold Palmer Cup at the Laurel Valley Golf Club in Pennsylvania. Wang scored 2 1/2 points for Tea USA, as Kuhl won 3 of four matches to add three points. Arnoldpalmercup.com.

ILLINOIS MEN’S GOLF COACH MIKE SMALL was named the Golfweek Magazine Coach of the Year, for the second time in three seasons. Small took home the award in the 2020-21 season. But Small was then named the College Coaches Association-America (CGAA) Midwest region Coach of the Year.

Small then announced his new assistant coach Ruben Sondjaja (pron:Sawnd-je-ye-uh) who joins Illinois after coming over from the Big 12 Iowa State Clyclones’ program. Sondjaja played his collegiate career at Iowa State, and had coached at ISU for four years.  Illini Sophomore Jackson Buchanan joined Seniors Adrien Dumont de Chassart and Tommy Kuhl on the Ping All-American Team. Buchanan was named Honorable Mention-with Kuhl and Dumont de Chassart being named to the First Team.

LEN ZIEHM of LenZiehmonGolf.com has just posted a travel review story of golf in the Pocono’s area of Pennsylvania. So hear more of Len’s travels on his website, social media pages and in the Daily Herald at Dailyherald.com.

TED PECORA ( Winnetka Bob-O-Link GC) defeated Terry Werner (Dyer Indiana-Briar Ridge CC) by a score of 5 and 3 in the 21st CDGA Senior Amateur. Pecora, leading 4 up, took what he called a “bad bogey” on the 11th hole. But after settling down and giving himself a “talking to” Pecora finally broke through to win the title, after multiple close calls.  So for more information see CDGA.org.

WOMEN’S GOLF DAY JUNE 6th in it’s new format showed record growth. Starting with the ringing of the NYSE Bell by WGD Founder and CEO Elisa Gaudet, alongside staff members of Acushnet Golf. Women’s Golf Day set record numbers on various platforms on social media.

PXG HAS leased it’s summer of 2023 Capsule Apparel Collection. So more details at PXG.com.

SUPERSTROKE GRIPS has welcomed both George and Wesley Bryan as new brand ambassadors. Learn more at SuperstrokeUSA.com.

UPPER DECK GOLF COMES TO WRIGLEY FIELD-the four day golf experience at Wrigley Field runs from July 6-9. So the experience allows for fans to have a round of golf from inside the Friendly Confines. Food and beverage-along with merchandise will be available for purchase. Fans can join the VIP waitlist starting June 13th, tee times open on June 14th at 11 Am CDT. Chicago Cubs season ticket holders will have a presale opportunity. www.upperdeckgolfing.com/wrigleyfield.

GOLFFOREVER has announced a Fathers Day Special of $20.00 off the purchase of a swing trainer through June 19th. But there is an additional discount when a 12-month subscription to a GolfForever APP is purchased. So learn more at GolfForever.com.

NEMACOLIN RESORT in Pennsylvania (just south of Pittsburg) is offering a 2-Day golf school on July 13-14. Top instructors including Mike LaBella the Nemacolin Director of Golf Instruction and Andrew Rice a Golf Digest Top 50 instructor will help with all aspects of your game. See [email protected].

WILLOW HILL Golf Course in Northbrook, is now offering food from Dengeo’s from 5 to 9 Pm nightly. So see what else is up at Willow Hill by visiting WillowHillgolfcourse.com.

THE 2024 SOLHEIM CUP at the Robert Trent Jones Club in Gainesville Virginia now has tickets on sale. The Solheim Cup will be played from September 10-15. But see more information at SolheimCup.com or LPGA.com.

CLUB CHAMPION is now offering a 20% bonus card, on the purchase of a gift card, through June 18. So in time for Fathers Day. See Clubchampiongolf.com #Fittervention

THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT-returns tomorrow. RS

THE 2023 U.S. SENIOR OPEN at Sentry World in Stevens Point Wisconsin, is coming up June 29-July 2-get your tickets at USGA.org. The golf course will reopen July 4th.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect-LinkedIn/Facebook/Instagram

Len Ziehm (L) along with Heritage Oaks Golf Club head professional John Billiter and Rory Spears.

TODAY AND TOMORROW

Heritage Oaks head golf professional John Billiter will host a Scotty Cameron putter fitting clinic from 10 Am to 2 Pm on the putting green at Heritage Oaks.

But there appointment necessary. Come test out all the new Scotties.

Heritage Oaks 3535 Dundee Road in Northbrook.

Golfers on Golf Radio L-R is Ed Stevenson, Len Ziehm, Bill Berger, and Rory Spears at WNDZ AM 750.

Golfers on Golf Radio WEEK #5

This week Ed Stevenson, Len Ziehm, Bill Berger and Rory Spears will bring you another exciting week of golf talk.

So what a week it has been.

But while war seems to be over, there will be fallout for months to come.

So there is plenty going on in the golf world beside the deal between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf.

Because this week is the Canadian Open and this coming week is the U.S. Open at Los Angeles Country Club.

Golfers on Golf Radio back for season # 33. WNDZ Am 750, 10 AM on Saturday morning.

So todays tee time this morning is 10 AM on 750 Am WNDZ-Chicago.

This mornings guests are Wisconsin.golf Gary D’Amato, the Wisconsin Golf Hall of Fame writer.

D’Amato is now currently serving at the national president for the Golf Writers Association America (GWAA).

Gary will talk the ending of the PGA Tour and LIV Golf war. This weeks U.S. Open at LACC.

The U.S. Senior Open at Sentry World in Stevens Point, that is coming up June 29-July 2. But some Sand Valley and more. So hear about the golf destination state Wisconsin has become.

But making a return is Global Golf Post publisher Jim Nugent-Len Ziehm is back from travels and more.

      Jim Nugent (L) publisher of the Global Golf Post, (R) Gary D’Amato Wisconsin.golf.

So join us at 10 AM for some exciting golf talk on WNDZ-Am 750. BUT in case you missed it, here is a rebroadcast of the show.

CLICK HERE to hear a rebroadcast of Golfers on Golf Radio-Week 5.

Thanks for listening, Ed, Len, Bill and Rory.

Golfers on Golf’s Sunday Morning short Game returns tomorrow. RS

THE 2023 U.S. SENIOR OPEN at Sentry World in Stevens Point Wisconsin. Coming June 29-July 2. So for tickets see USGA.org Defending Champion Padraig Harrington is defending his title. Wisconsin players Steve Stricker and Jerry Kelly will be in the field.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy and on Instagram-LinkedIn and Facebook.

THE LONGEST DAY IS HERE.

ONE that becomes memorable for the players who survive a 36-hole play day to earn a spot in the U.S. Open field.

But this past week was the Memorial Tournament at Jack’s place in Dublin Ohio-Muirfield Village.

In some rankings Muirfield Village gets the highest ratings of the Jack Nicklaus golf course design group.

But having played the course, and finding it the least enjoyable round of a 24 courses in 19 day trip, MV doesn’t excite me when the PGA Tour shows up every year.

DON’T GTET ME WRONG Nicklaus will always be the best player to play the game. So don’t even start me with this crappy #GOAT stuff. Goats are losers and those who didn’t win, not champions of sport. So while Nicklaus was a star on the course, what about his presence in building them

NICKLAUS has done some great work in building courses. I have played my share of Nicklaus designs, both public and private. But I have 10 Nicklaus Signature designs I would play any day, over another round at Muirfield Village. The course has been renovated since I played last played it, but from what I saw this past weekend not much has changed. So perhaps another renovation is needed.

The holes I didn’t like, received negative comments from the players this weekend. I saw the leaders almost falling backwards from the sides of slopes and trying to hit greens that didn’t hold. The day I played, I could only wear those brutal plastic spikes that had the ice cream cone swirls on them. Combine that with a course that was still wet and spongy from a rain 3 days earlier, and it quickly becomes a forgettable round.

MY FAVORITE NICKLAUS COURSES include the public Club at Porto Cima in Lake in the Ozarks. The Ocean Course at Hammock Dunes in Florida (public). Valhalla site of the 2024 PGA Championship (private), Pinehurst No.9 (private), Wynstone (private) The Bull at Pinehurst Farms (public), Great Waters at Reynolds Lake Oconee (public) in Georgia. I’m still hoping to play the Bears Club in Florida someday. Nicklaus for the most part does really good golf design-just maybe not at Muirfield Village.

ILLINI COACH MIKE SMALL qualified to play in the U.S. Senior Open at Sentry World. Small’s 1 under par 71, earned him one of two spots at the Flossmoor Golf Club. Congrats Coach.

PPV-the dreaded word that sports fans hate. Pay-Per-View, could the LIV Golf be bringing that to golf fans that follow it’s tour. We will see. Because ratings are up on the current platforms that LIV is using, why head for a PPV set-back.

PURSES AT MAJORS CHAMPIONSHIPS-seem to be not keeping up with other purses on tour. Which has lead to questions about players not playing in those tournaments. Rory McIlroy said he will continue play in-them, but that other players might not. Time will tell what the PGA, Masters, USGA and R&A do moving forward. Today in golf it seems that tournaments must pay-up, or suffer with a less than stellar field.

GREAT STORY BY ALEX MICELI in SI.Com about how LIV Golf is still building it’s 20 year business plan, is still moving forward. So in just days LIV will celebrate being in business for 1 year. One LIV executive said clearly, we are not going anywhere, and things are moving forward, but slowly. But apparently that was expected by LIV. So what’s the plan going forward, Miceli’s story has part of the plan on display.

JOIE CHITWOOD-has been named the Executive Director of the 2026 Presidents Cup at Medinah-the PGA Tour announced. Chitwood build the Chicagoland Motor Speedway before heading back to Indy. So, why an automotive background person running a golf event at Medinah. When someone figures that out let me know.

36-holes and your in. Good luck today to those who are trying to make it to LACC. RS

THE ACRON GRILL at the Heritage Oaks Golf Club in Northbrook, is now serving the First Tee-Transfusion just in time for the summer season. So visit HeritageoaksGC.com.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect Facebook/LinkedIn/Instagram

Len Ziehm at the USGA office in Pinehurst.

Another week of news is here.

Golfers on Golf’s Len Ziehm, is on the road again, working his way through Pennsylvania and Virginia.

This past week Ziehm a member of Chicago’s favorite foursome Golfers on Golf Radio, was representing GOG at the ING Summit at Valley Forge near Philadelphia.

Ziehm reports that there was no siting of George Washington, but there was some great news and good golf that came out of the event. But following ING was a trip to the Poconos. So look for the full wrap-up at LenZiehmonGolf.com.

MAGIC HAPPENS HERE-The John Deere Classic.

IOWA STARS UNITE FOR JDC PRO-AM.

Caitlin Clark the star of NCAA Women’s basketball, and the University of Iowa basketball team, will play in the 2023 John Deere Classic Pro-am.

Championship week for the John Deere Classic is July 6-9.

Clark is avid golfer, when she isn’t draining 3-pointers, is paired with 2023 Ryder Cup Captain Iowa native Zach Johnson. So the Pro-Am is played on Wednesday.

DUPAGE GOLF-announces registration has opened for the DuPage Amateur, on July 22-23. So round one is played at Maple Meadows. But the second 18 holes at The Preserve at Oak Meadows. But see more at DuPagegolf.com.

Darius Rucker Summer’s Swingstakes with PXG Golf.

PXG and Grammy  award-winning artist Darius Rucker, have teamed up for a summer giveaway.

The Swingstakes allow golfers to sign up for free, at a PXG Store-or online.

Both Chicago stores in Northbrook or in Oak Brook Terrace are locations where you can sign up.

Golfers can win both PXG clubs and swag, and or concert tickets to four concerts. Chicago winners are announced July 10th, the golf outing and concert are July 14th.

” I play a lot of golf when I’m on the road,” said Rucker. “So I’m thrilled to bring PXG along for the ride and share my love of the game with other avid golfers. Life doesn’t get much better than a summer filled with golf and live music.” So for more information visit PXG.com/Darius. PXG is honoring Women’s Golf Month-see the discounts for women at PXG.com.

PXG CB Irons are now available, cost is $169.99 per iron. See PXG.com.

The Bumble Bee putter by Bettinardi Golf.

BETTINARDI has entered the battle.

Decepticons and Autobots. So Bettinardi Golf and the world of transformers has crossed paths.

WHO WILL WIN?

So is your game ready for a for BumbleBee putter.

What about some Bettinardi-Transformer Swag gear.

The launch is this week on Wednesday June 7th 10 am, the Decepticon Line. But Thursday June 8th is the launch of the Autobots series at 10 am CST. So learn more at Bettinardi.com.

THE WGAESF has announced a two-year partnership with Northbrook based SWAG Golf . SWAG will support the Western Golf Association (WGA) and the BMW Championship coming this August to Olympia Fields. SWAG golf is known for colorful golf products.

The 18th green at the Aurora Country Club.

THE CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLF ASSOCIATION (CDGA) will hold the 21st annual Senior Amateur Golf Championship this coming week June 5-8 at the Aurora Country Club. A field of 77 players will tee off tomorrow, including defending champion Dave Ryan.

Golfers on Golf radio show founder Mike Munro is in the field. Details at CDGA.org.

GOLF APPAREL COMPANY Peter Millar is the official outfitter for the 123rd U.S. Open at the Los Angeles Country Club. Petermillar.com/USGA.

MISTWOOD GOLF ANNOUNCES that registration has opened for the Stars and Stripes outing on Tuesday 4th of July, with a 7 Am shotgun start. So to sign up visit Mistwoodgc.com.

GOLFFOREVER a fitness and stretching tool, has become a partner of the Canadian PGA. So for more information see GolfForever.com.

GOLFTEC GENEVA ILLINOIS is now open for business. Located at 1492 S. Randall road in Geneva-Suite H. More information at GolfTec.com.

John Iacono owner of Zero Friction with the new Stride Cart, can run remotely. Zerofriction.com

FATHERS DAY is COMING.

So have you considered getting dad a Fathers Day golf gift.

Because you can pick from a line of great golf products from Oak Brook Terrace based Zero Friction Golf.

First on the tee is the new Stride remote walking cart. So no need to push or pull. Zero Friction has a full line of golf balls, golf gloves, golf tees and more. So visit Zerofriction.com.

CALLAWAY GOLF has new limited edition of it’s new Paradym Driver coming out tomorrow June 5th. See Callawaygolf.com and learn more about night mode.

MARCUS BYRD won for the third time in four starts on the APGA Tour. Bryd shot a score of 9 under par over 36 holes, to win the championship at TPC Deere Run.

ILLINOIS COACH MIKE SMALL is a finalist for the Dave Williams NCAA Division 1, Coach of the Year Award. Illini Seniors Adrien Dumont de Chassart and Tommy Kuhl were named Ping All-American First Team. Details at FightingIllini.com.

PADRAIG HARRINGTON a three-time major champion winner and 2021 Ryder Cup Captain for Team Europe, has joined Superspeedgolf. So you can like Harrington by learning more of his methods at SuperSpeedGolf. See more at Superspeedgolf.com.

Caledonia Golf and Fish Club and neighbor and fellow Mike Strantz golf design are offering a fall golf package, that must be used from October 1-31. So check out the details of these two great Pawley’s Island (Myrtle Beach area) golf courses. To book your play and stay at these Top 100 rated resort courses, Caledoniagolfandfishclub.com or TrueBluegolf.com.

THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT-Returns tomorrow. RS

ACORN GRILLE at Heritage Oaks Golf Club in Northbrook-Now featuring the brand new Transfusion Beverage. Tasty and refreshing as the warmth of the summer season arrives. Tuesday is now Taco Tuesdays-or try Wings on Wednesdays. Just $1 per wing.

Golfers on Golf Radio is L-R Ed Stevenson, Len Ziehm, Bill Berger and Rory Spears at WNDZ AM 750-Chicago.

WEEK-FORE is here is already.

Golfers on Golf Radio is back again today on the tee at 10 AM, on it’s home WNDZ-AM 750-Chicago.

So this week Ed Stevenson, Bill Berger and Rory Spears will bring you some of top news from this week in golf.

Len Ziehm is representing the show in Valley Forge PA., at the ING spring summit. So his report on travel golf in that area, will run next week.

But this week should be an exciting one, with the guest list we have on the course with us for Week #4.

Architect and Evans Scholar Ray Hearn a member of the American Society Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) whose courses in Illinois include Flossmoor GC, home of the 2023 Illinois Open and 2023 USGA Senior Open qualifier, Mistwood GC, home of the Phil Kosin Illinois Women’s Open, Midlothian home of the 2023 WGA Junior Championship.

Hearn’s renovations at two courses out east and in Panama, have or will host Korn Ferry Tour events this year.

Tim Cronin-head of the Illinois Golf HOF Selection committee, speaks at the 2021 induction ceremony.

TIM CRONIN of the Illinois Golfer and the Director of the Selection Committee for the Illinois Golf Hall of Fame.

Cronin joins us at 10:10 to discuss this years Hall of Fame process for the Class of 2023, now underway.

Cronin will discuss how many candidates there are for this years class. But then how many will be left standing after the first cut. The Illinois Golf HOF located at the Glen Club.

CLICK HERE to hear this weeks show-with guests Tim Cronin and Ray Hearn.

So stay tuned to Golfers on Golf Radio, heard every Saturday at 10 AM on WNDZ AM 750. Because Chicago’s longest running golf show, is the place to hear the best guests in the world of golf.

So thanks for listening, Chicago’s Favorite Foursome-Ed-Len-Bill and Rory.

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN for the 2023 Phil Kosin Illinois Women’s Open at the Mistwood Golf Club on Monday and Tuesday July 24-25. See MistwoodGC.com. NEW from Callaway Golf for a limited time-the Night Mode Paradym driver. Callawaygolf.com

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect- LinkedIn/Facebook/Instagram

Dustin Johnson is back in the winners circle at LIV Tulsa-Photo courtesy of LIV Golf and Montana Pritchard.

DUSTIN JOHNSON was back in the winners circle, with his second solo win on the LIV Golf Tour at the LIV Golf Tulsa Tournament.

So with his win in a three-man playoff against Cam Smith and Branden Grace, Johnson is now the third player with multiple solo wins on the LIV Golf Tour.

Johnson with an eagle in a playoff last year at the LIV Golf Boston event.

Johnson said,” next time it would be nice to win without the playoff.”

Johnson’s team 4Aces ended up in second place. Grace’s team Stinger GC, won the team championship by 1 shot at Cedar Ridge.

FOLLOWING THE TULSA LIV GOLF TOURNAMENT was the PGA Championship at Oak Hill, won by Liv Golf Brooks Koepka. So for Koepka it was his fifth major title, and his third PGA Championship victory.

LIV GOLF CEO GREG NORMAN called the victory, “a commanding win that cements Brooks place as one of the greatest players to ever play the game.”

COG HILL GOLF will host two days of Ping Golf fittings on June 22-23. Fittings run from 11 Am to 3 Pm. Call (866)-COG-HILL to make an appointment.

HAROLD VARNER III won for the first time on American soil, with his 1 shot win over a late charging Branden Grace.

But Varner did not get to celebrate his win with his team. Because the team honor went to Torque GC, over Varner III Rangegoats.

But for the second straight event in LIV Golf, the attendance record was broken. Because both ratings and galleries continue to surge for LIV Golf.

The next stop on the LIV schedule is LIV Golf Valderrama from June 30-July 2. But before LIV Golf returns, 12 regular members of LIV Golf will participate in the U.S. Open at the Los Angeles Country Club in two weeks. Reigning major champions Brooks Koepka, 2023 PGA Champion and Cam Smith 2022 open Championship winner, are among those playing at LACC.

But for more information on LIV Golf, see LIVGolf.com.

THE NEW RANGE at Heritage Oaks Golf Club in Northbrook, is now an award winning facility, complete with Trackman and top level instructors. (M) Teaching professional Michael Wenzel (L) and Heritage Oaks Director of Golf Greg Baron (R) show off the two recent awards presented by the Golf Range Association of America (GRAA). Heritage Oaks is on Dundee Road in Northbrook call (847)-291-2351 or HeritageOaksGC.com.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect- Linkedin/Instagram/Facebook

Molly Hamer with the IPRA Executive of the Year Award.

THE SECRET WAS KEPT…

But maybe that was the hard part after all, when the Northbrook Park District senior staff learned that the parks executive director Molly Hamer (pron:Hay-mer) had won the Illinois Park & Recreation Association (IPRA) Professional of the Year Award. They had to keep it a secret.

So Hamer’s staff knew, her husband and family knew-but she didn’t know. So as a result people were lying to her about things-so the secret was well kept. But that was until the award was presented.

Which was at the IAPD/IPRA New Heights Conference at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Chicago. The award, which is a major one in the Illinois Parks and Recreation industry. Is one award that given Hamer’s long track record in the industry, was well deserved. Just ask the people that know her the best.

Hamer on the porch of the new Heritage Oaks Clubhouse in front of the 18th green. A clubhouse Hamer guided the Northbrook Park District through it’s construction.

But the award is presented to an individual with more than eight years of full-time service.

With those years come the need to have made major contributions to the park, recreation and conservation profession. Plus a leader who has made the effort to go above and beyond the call of duty.

“IPRA is thrilled to see Molly recognized by her peers with this award. Because she exemplifies the leadership and dedication to her community that Park, Recreation and Conservation professionals can look to for inspiration.”-Barbara Arango, CAE, IPGA Executive Director.

Hamer started at the Schaumburg Park District for 11 years, and ended her time there as Superintendent of Recreation. But following her time in Schaumburg, Hamer was Executive Director of the Geneseo Park District from 2007-2016.

In her years at Geneseo, the park district approved it’s first Master Plan, and became an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency. The park system received awards for financial reporting. Among the capital projects undertaken, was the $6.3 million dollar outdoor pool renovation that finished on time and on budget. The project was funded in part by a $2.4 million dollar PARC grant, and community capital campaign that raised $2.25 million.

Molly Hamer at Heritage Oaks Golf Club in Northbrook, one of the top golf course renovation projects in the Chicago area over the last decade.

But then while serving on the IPRA Board of Directors from 2014-2016. Hamer was named the recipient of the Joseph Brannon Practitioner Award from the University of Illinois.

Hamer joined the Northbrook Park District in September of 2016, as Executive Director. As part of her role with the NBPD, Hamer oversees 543 acres of open space, 36 holes of golf, 13 facilities, 24 parcels of land, 7.7 miles of walking trails, plus 18 playgrounds and athletic courts and fields. While Hamer is involved with various Northbrook area organizations, she has lead the park district through the Covid-19 pandemic era. During that time was the planned renovation of Sportsman Golf and Country Club. That evolved into the new era of the renamed and rebranded Heritage Oaks Golf Club project.

Welcome to Heritage Oaks Golf Club in Northbrook.

So while Heritage Oaks is now fully reopened to the public, what is complete is really Phase 1 of the project.

Because what still needs to be done, is the finishing of a full set of cart paths. A bunker renovation project, and some tree removal work.

But what Hamer and the Northbrook Park Board needs to do next, is find the next golf architect for Northbrook PD golf properties, with the retirement of Rick Jacobson. Jacobson has stepped back from taking on any more work from NBPD as he ends his long career in golf design.

Heritage Oaks is home to a brand new clubhouse.

Hamer admits that the new architect has not been selected yet. But one is likely to be named in the next few months.

That person will help decide a 10-year master plan for Heritage Oaks. Then the 9-hole Anetsberger golf course.

Some of the above named parts of the renovation that were done during the recent work, was to keep the project on budget. Hamer led the board through the tough decision process on what cuts were made to originally proposed plan of over $14 million dollars. So to avoid reaching out to the taxpayers wallets, the project was trimmed down to $12.5 million dollars.

But since the Northbrook community made it clear to the park board, that golf was important. Work started and will continue over the next few years, to various parts of Heritage Oaks and Anetsberger.

The 18th hole at sunrise on the Classic 18 golf course at Heritage Oaks.

But while Heritage Oaks is a big project, it has not been the only major capital project that park district has taken on in recent years.

Which is amazing considering the restrictions the NBPD has worked though, especially with the Covid-19 restrictions and supply chain issues.

But what’s good news for the golfers who enjoy NBPD golf, is that Hamer confirmed to Golfers on Golf that the improvements will continue to happen to the Northbrook Park District Golf operation.

CLICK HERE TO HEAR the full interview with Northbrook Park District Executive Director Molly Hamer.

The Heritage Oaks renovation and rebranding, was one of the three biggest golf renovation projects in the Chicago area. In the last decade, only Mistwood Golf Club and the Preserve at Oak Meadows. Have undertaken projects the size and cost of Heritage Oaks.

The Heritage Oaks Transfusion-See what’s new in 2023 at Heritage Oaks.

Late last year, the Northbrook Park District and Heritage Oaks received notice it received it’s certification as a Audubon Certified property.

This year the golf staff worked with the board and Hamer on several improvements to Heritage Oaks.

The golf carts received all new GPS screens for yardage and more. The driving range got a new picker cart, to help retrieve golf balls more efficiently.

During the years ahead, Hamer and board will continue to improve the golf product offered by the park district. With Hamer leading the way, Heritage Oaks, will continue to be one the of the area’s top public golf facilities.

THE 2023 U.S. SENIOR OPEN IS COMING JUNE 29-JULY 2. At Sentry World in Stevens Point Wisconsin, tickets available at USGA.org. Steve Stricker and Jerry Kelly will both be playing. Defending championship Padraig Harrington will defend his title.

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or connect- LinkedIn/Facebook/Instagram.

NCAA Division 1 Championships at Grayhawk Golf Club.

IT LOOKED GREAT…

But then it wasn’t. The University of Illinois men’s golf team had the lead in it’s quarterfinals match with Florida State.

They needed one more win to advance to the final four. But came up short, and went home a day earlier than planned.

Final Score Florida State 3 Illinois 2.

Illinois was the #3 seed for the match play and Florida State came in at #6. So with the loss Illinois wrapped up a T-5 finish, for the programs 8th time. That accomplishment ranks second nationally.

“The season these guys had should be talked about,” said Coach Mike Small. “So it should be remembered because of the wins and getting here to the match play portion of the championship.”

The tougher loss for Illinois will be two fifth year seniors Adrien Dumont de Chassart and Tommy Kuhl, who now turn towards the ranks of professional golf.

“They guys cared, they wanted it and wanted to do something different, but its just so hard. But they pushed themselves to be great, and that’s what I appreciate,” said Small.

Kuhl posted the first point and put Illinois up 1-0. But after Matthis Besard lost his match on the 18th hole to tie the score at 1-1. Dumont de Chassart won his match 3 & 2 and Illinois was back ahead 2-1. But Piercen Hunt lost his match 3 & 2, that and loss by Jackson Buchanan on the 18th green 1 DN, sealed the win for FSU.

But Kuhl called the day a total team effort, with no blame directed toward his teammates who lost their matches. Dumont de Chassart said,” everyone is disappointed. Because we all care about each other so much. But we all played as hard as we could, but Florida State just played better today. Which is a tough reality.”

THE 2023 U.S. SENIOR OPEN is less than a month away at Sentry World Golf course in Stevens Point Wisconsin. Steve Stricker is the favorite. Tickets and info USGA.org

The Gog Blog by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. With the U.S. Senior Open trophy at Sentry World.

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY…

A SPECIAL THANKS to all the veterans that have served our great country, and to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

When you are out golfing today, spend a moment to think about those who have served, or are currently in uniform.

So the good news about today, is that the weather will be great for a change, and great for golf. So go out and take advantage.

LET’S GO ILLINOIS-Coach Mike Small and the Illini have a great chance to win the national championship this year. Illinois is in first place heading into the final round of stroke play. The top 8 schools move on to match play on Tuesday. The national champion will be crowned on Wednesday.

ANOTHER CONGRATS to Illini Coach Small, on qualifying at Flossmoor Golf Club last week, to play in the 2023 U.S. Senior Open at Sentry World in Wisconsin.

SO HOW IS YOUR GOLF SEASON starting off so far. I have been making observations at the clubs I work at, and one thing stands out. The people complaining the most about their golf game, are people still trying to play with 1995 technology clubs. So if you won’t grade to something newer, even some lightly used clubs that are only 1-3 years old. Please don’t complain.

I KNOW it takes a pile of money to buy a new full set of clubs. But you don’t have to replace a full bag all at once. Start with a driver, or a putter and build around those clubs. Then invest in some new golf balls, that you did not find in a pond last summer, and then sat in your garage all winter. I could go on and on here, but there are some people who are need in need of new golf bags and shoes. Golf apparel is another subject I will save for another day, but if your still wearing the 2002 U.S. Open bucket hat, please do trade it in already.

THERE ARE REPORTS of some area courses not in the best shape for this time of year. But there are probably some good reasons for that. Staffing shortages in the maintenance area’s continue, and the spring has been very dry. So it’s been hard for crews to put down all the treatments course would normally get in a rainy spring.

CONGRATS to Medinah Director of Golf Marty DeAngelo, who is on his way to a new challenge in Naples Florida. ANOTHER CONGRATS to former Illinois PGA professional Mike Jones who has moved on from Suncadia Resort near Seattle, to Snoqualmie Ridge GC also in the Seattle area and home to a PGA Champions Tour Event.

THE GOG BLOG returns on Tuesday with more on the Illini. RS