Spears on Golf

THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT,RANTS, RAVES AND MORE

2012-02-20T17:11:50Z

STANDING TALL IN FRONT OF THE CAROLINA HOTEL, IN THE HEART OF PINEHURST

GOLF SHOWS, GOLF SHOWS, GOLF SHOWS...and sounding like the
Genesis album "And Then There Were 3" the Chicago area has just that.

Round 2 has now posted in the clubhouse with the completion of the new
Tinley Park Golf Show.

A TIP OF THE CAP OR GOLF VISOR...to Greg Buban for launching the
southside golf show, that's now in the middle of lineup between the
Cantigny show and this weeks Chicago Golf Show in Rosemont.

Upon my early Friday arrival with BIG 3 partner Tim Cronin, we found
ourselves parked nowhere near the front door. Which is a great sign at
12:15 on a Friday. The parking lot was fairly full, and it was nice to have
FREE PARKING, always a good thing. Several patrons also told me
that the $5 Friday admission was a selling point as well.

While I do enjoy going booth to booth at golf shows, without being grabed
by home repair people, dating services and other non-golf type things.
I did enjoy the the free-food booths that included great Italian handouts
and some great steak too. A nice touch.

Buban tells me he has signed a three-year deal to host the show and
here's hoping it continues. The Tinley Park Expo facility looks nice and
walking the carpeted floors makes a difference on people's feet after
hours of walking.

Multiple golf course operators also told me that this formula of regional
Chicago area golf shows is exactly what the area golfers and it's golf
properties needs. Time will tell if that is a successful formula. But as
a diehard golfer, I enjoy having as many golf shows in the winter as
possible. So as much as I liked Tinley Park, I'm just as much looking
forward to Rosemont this week as well.

FRANK JEMSEK WHO FLEW IN FROM FLORIDA TO ATTEND THE TINLEY PARK SHOW,
spoke at length with me regarding what's next at Cog Hill. Jemsek is still a strong supporter
of the Western Golf Association (WGA) and The Evans Scholars Foundation.

CHANGES ARE COMING TO DUBS...several holes will have some work
done. Architect Rees Jones in between his Medinah Ryder Cup visits is
expected to stop by Cog Hill at some point in 2012, as Jemsek made it
clear that any work done on course # 4 will again be overseen by Jones.
Question is what the architect who is called "The Open Doctor" do, to
enhance Cog Hill's bid to host the 2022 Mens US Open.

Jemsek made it clear that some changes will come into play for the daily
customer to Cog Hill, and not just touring pro's whatever year they return.
Which is apparently no sooner than 2017 at the earliest, based on latest
reports that has the future BMW Championship looking like this.

2012 Crooked Stick Carmel Ind.,2013 Conway Farms Lake Forest IL.,
2014 Cherry Hills (near Denver Co.), 2015 Conway Farms, 2016
Harding Park San Francisco Ca. 2017 Chicago area ???.

FOR MORE ON COG HILL AND THE JEMSEK GOLF RUN OPERATION
PINE MEADOW IN MUNDELEIN, and Rory's Interview with Frank Jemsek
Click here:

RAVE...It's nice to hear that things are starting to get settled in the
BMW Championship future site department. Hopefully the tour comes
to an agreement with all parties involved. The above possible schedule
does seem to be the way to go.

RANT..It's time the PGA Tour starts at looking to move the other Fex
Ex Cup events around, instead of just the BMW Championship all the
time. While the Barclays does move between New York and New Jersey
the distance involved is like moving the BMW from Cog Hill to Conway
Farms no big deal.

Tim Finchem..move NY, move Boston, and move Atlanta around too
if your going to keep moving the BMW Championship. It's only fair.

RANT...Hopefully we hear about all 64 players this week at the Match
Play Championship in Tucson. Even though it's expected that clueless
ESPN will be tracking one-player only. I think the majority of golf fans
would rather hear about "The Lefty Launch", "happenings with Haas",
"The Bradley Blast"..you know players that actually win tournaments
these days.

With four great # 1 seeds this week, let's follow them like the coverage
does at events like the NCAA Basketball Championship. The occasional
"live-lookin" for the comeback-kid is just fine.

THE CHICAGO GOLF SHOW..tee's off this Friday in Rosemont and I'm
looking forward to it. It should be a great show and here's hoping the golf
community turns out in force. Speakers like Craig Stadler and Chip Beck
should add to the show. I will have more on the show later this week and
a full wrap up next Monday right here.

AS THE WEEK GOES ON...more travel destinations coming up and a
look at the French Lick Resort, as it prepares to host both the mens and
womens Big Ten Golf Championships in late April.

THE PRESENTATIONS ARE DONE..the good folks over at the Dupage
County Forest Preserve District, are looking throughout their notes and
getting ready to narrow the five finalists down to one remaining golf
architect. To see who will handle the renovations at Oak Meadows GC
in Addison. Best of luck to DCFPD Director of Golf Operations Ed
Stevenson and the team voters on picking a winner.

RAVE..Congrats to Northwestern Golf Coach Pat Goss and the NU
Wildcats on winning the Big Ten Match Play Championship in Florida.
That's three in a row for the sticks from Evanston, than tuned up for
the event by getting pounded in a match again the NU alums. The
alumni team was headed up by World # 1 Luke Donald, who Goss
called a big help in getting the cats ready for the following week.
#1 seed Illinois lead by Coach Mike Small, saw his team get beat
in the semi-finals by Minnesota. The Gophers then lost to NU in
the championship.Visit BIG 3 partner www.lenziehmongolf.com
for a full story on the championship.

I'LL SEE EVERYONE IN ROSEMONT..........The Gog Blog Speaks
Out are the opinions of Rory Spears, and not always my Golfers on
Golf Radio partners Mike Munro, Ed Stevenson, and Bill Berger.

THE GOG BLOGS SUNDAY MORNING SHORT GAME...

2012-02-19T06:07:45Z

THE GOG BLOG GUY RELAXS IN THE DONALD ROSS ROCKING
CHAIR, ON THE BACK PATIO OF THE DORNOCH COTTAGE.
LOOKING OUT ON PINEHURST # 2... (photo by Robert Hansen)

Okay sorry for the delay, Pinehurst called and I went. So last
weekends loss, is this Sunday's gain. Take a load off your feet
snuggle up the computer, and read along.

The rocking chair above is the one Donald Ross used in his
final days, looking out on the third green of his masterpiece
Pinehurst # 2. It is comfortable, but by then Ross deserved as
much after designing some 400 golf courses.

More on Pinehurst # 2, the Dormie Club and The Homestead
in the heart of Sam Snead Country located in Hot Springs VA.
Plus The French Lick Resort home of the 2012 Mens and the
Womens Big Ten Golf Championships coming in April, later
this week.

On Monday the Gog Blog Speaks Out will return, with a recap
of the second golf show of the year in town. The Tinley Park
Golf Show, which was very well received on opening day this
past Friday.

The Gog Blog also spoke at length with Cog Hill owner Frank
Jemsek about changes to Cog Hill (Dubs) and the loss of the
BMW Championship. Jemsek speaks about course # 4 hater
Phil Mickelson, and how Rees Jones will return this year and
be involved in upgrades. Which already include holes 1, 5, 9,
and 12. Jemsek talks about Pine Meadow GC in Mundelein
that has made changes on it's conditioning program, and will
have Cog Hill Grounds Director Ken Lapp up assisting in
Mundelein. While Scott Pavalko comes off a stellar "rookie"
season as superintendent of course #4, add's course # 2 to
his duties as well.

Plus some thoughts about the big Rosemont based Chicago
Golf show that tee's off this coming Friday at noon and runs
through Sunday. "The Walrus" Craig Stadler to appear on
Sat-Sun and Chip Beck on Friday.

HEADLINE...News from the Tinley Park Show. BIG 3 Partner
Tim Cronin was spotted making the rounds promoting his new
publication "The Illinois Golfer", which debuts in April. Making
the rounds with Cronin was IG- staff writer Jim Owczarski.

TPC OF CHICAGO OWNED BY MIKE MANDAKAS IS MAKING UPGRADES

For more about changes to TPC of Chicago in Justice, click here
to hear Rory's interview with Mike Mandakas.

TPC INSTRUCTOR, Chris Spalla (R) with VP Joe Biden ("student" L)
and Mistwood GC during renovations (far right).

MISTWOOD GC in Romeoville which has undergone a renovation
by architect Ray Hearn, is now targeting June 1st to reopen. But
is hoping to open a couple of days sooner in time for Memorial
Day weekend. Stay Tuned. Mistwoodgolf.net or (815)-254-3333.

WEAVER RIDGE in Peoria is back..from a water shortage that
plagued the course mid-summer of 2011. As a result the course
maintenance staff could only water the greens for part of the summer.
Having to let the rest of the course wait for rain, this however is
no longer an issue. weaverridge.com (309)-691-3344.

RAVISLOE CC.. has made a change of superintendents and
expects conditions to be better this summer. The first event
of 2012 will be Sunday April 22, with a 2-person/2-format event.
Shotgun start at 8 AM, $70 per player.9-holes scramble and
9-holes one best ball of two. Call the pro-shop to sign up for
this event (708)-798-5600.

TWO NEW GOLF COACHES..hit the local college scene. Mike
Mandakas will coach the St. Xavier of Chicago Cougars men's
and women's golf teams that begin competition this fall of 2012.

FORMER ILLINOIS OPEN CHAMPION..Marty Schiene is now
the Men's golf coach at Chicago State University. Schiene and
Mandakas are now boh recruiting players for the 2012-2013
golf season.

IT'S A NEW LOOK AT SWAN LAKE RESORT in Plymouth
Indiana. Staff changes and more have been made, and more
are coming. More information at www.swanlakeresort.com.

TODAY (SUNDAY)..a lucky winner at the Tinley Park show will
win FREE GOLF (always a good thing) "for life"..YES..I said for
life at Silver Lake CC in Orland Park, now that's a prize worth
stuffing the ballot box for. If you haven't signed up yet, I would
get out to the show and do so. Silverlake.com.

CHECK OUT THE DRIVER..in Phil Mickelson's bag when TV
shows the leader of the Northern Trust Open at Riviera in LA.
The new Callaway RAZR FH Driver with adjustable weights
is now for sale to the public starting at $399.00.

OTHER NEWS AND NOTES.............The USGA has selected
Glen D. Nager to replace James Hyler as USGA President for
a term of 1-year.

CONGRATS TO..Dave Lockhart, Chris Delira, Jill Carlson,
Heather Brown, and Kevin Larson of the Chicago District
Golf Assocation TV show, for winning an award for media
excellence at the ING award convention.

AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS..where at least the golf
teams are good. From the mens side congrats to seniors
Luke Guthrie and Thomas Pieters on making the watch list
for this years Ben Hogan award. The highest honor in college
golf. From the ladies squad, Sr. Sammi Sloan is the first
winner of the first 2012 Big Ten Womens Player of the Week
award.

YES MICHIGAN..Treetops Resort in Gaylord Michigan is
giving away FREE GOLF. Go to Treetops Facebook Page
and click the "Like" space and get a voucher for golf. That
must be used by May 24th of 2012. Treetopsgolfresort.com.

2012 GOLF AND SPA PACKAGES..can now be found for
Grand Traverse Resort. www.grandtraverseresort.com. Or
call (800)-236-1577.

SHANTY CREEK IN BELLAIRE MICHIGAN..also have their
2012 Golf packages available for booking. There are unlimited
golf packages and more. Four courses and more to pick from.
www.shantycreek.com. (800)-678-4111.

THE NORTHBROOK BASED..Kemper Sports Management
has been selected to manage the Fox Lake Country Club in
north suburban Fox Lake. The daily fee course in located in
between the Chain of Lakes and the Fox River. The club was
originally built in 1925 by Harry Hall King as a private club.

The club was renovated in 1973 by Dick Nugent and and the
late Ken Killian who designed Kemper Lakes. The course
is a 6,400 yard 18 hole parkland style course that plays to a
par of 72. The golf shop is under renovation and for more
information, visit http://foxlakecc.net.

SANFORD GOLF DESIGN..of Jupiter Florida has agreed
with the JSG Captial Company of Japan, to renovate all
three courses at the Kosaido Country Club near Sapporo
Japan. The three courses are the Old Course, New Course,
and the Thompson Course designed by golfing great Peter
Thompson of Australia. More info Sanfordgolfdesign.com

MORE COMING UP ON...The Gog Blog Speaks Out tomorrow
(Monday). In the meantime Go Play courses and the White Pines
Golf Dome are open.

THE GOG BLOG RETURNS AND SPEAKS OUT..RANTS, RAVES AND MORE

2012-02-14T23:41:22Z

RORY SPEARS
THE GOG BLOG GUY RETURNS
(Photo by Pinehurst Caddy Adam)

THE GOG BLOG RETURNS...and what a wild week it has been. On
the road again as the song goes, and what we have learned and seen
is amazing.

But first order of business is that I had promised to post a Sunday
Morning Short Game column last Sunday that I did not. Sorry the
Gog Blog was on the road headed home from North Carolina, after
a week of gathering golf news. As a result that column will appear
this Sunday after a run to the Tinley Park Golf Show, that runs
this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. (I-80 and Harlem Ave. Expo
Center)

TOPICS,TOPICS,TOPICS...The new look Homestead in Hot Springs
Virginia is happening, with more new golf in store for guests. The
renovated Pinehurst # 2 by Ben Crenshaw & Bill Coore is very well
done. The Dormie Club another Crenshaw/Coore design in West
End NC. ( 9 miles from Pinehurst # 2), is solid, with currently
some public access.

The Gog Blog also took advantage of an invite from friend and a
former Mt. Prospect guy Ray Roth, to see the Ballantyne CC
in Charlotte. Looks like Rees Jones and crew are coming back
to update that club.

Locally the Chicago Tribune stirred the pot regarding Butler National
again. A previous trib writer did that some years back and it sent
shock waves through the club, because what was written wasn't
true. Now that same topic is being lobbed out again to see what
sticks, and the answer probably hasn't changed much.

ON THE PGA TOUR..at Pebble Beach Phil Mickelson made up
some final round ground to win the AT&T, and while doing so
beat his partner Tiger Woods by 11 shots (64-75). Mickelson
now takes the lead in USA Ryder Cup points for Medinah later
this year. Callaway will also make for sale the model of driver
that Mickelson used to win at Pebble Beach, starting this Friday.

CLICK HERE TO HEAR FINAL ROUND COMMENTS BY WINNER
PHIL MICKELSON, AND TIGER WOODS.

THE GOG BLOGS ROAD TRIP was a great way to start the 2012
golf season. Yes GO PLAY..was the theme in between stops out
east in IN., KY.,WVA.,VA.,NC.,SC., and TN. 54 holes was all that
I played but enough to get us fired up heading into two weeks of
Chicago based golf shows.

UPON ARRIVING...in Hot Springs Virginia at the Historic Homestead
land of 1766, the Cascades Courses and The Old Course. The Gog
Blog learned that the Homestead will be starting over 25 million worth
of resort improvements this year. Including Yes, that long awaited for
fourth golf course. The Mini-Cascades, a miniature golf course that will
put Par-King to shame.

A quick dinner over at Sam Sneads found some new memorabilia on
the walls. But back at the resort, a new pool with water slides, room
renovations, restaurant and spa changes too. "The Next Chapter"
it's being called. Homes to be built in "The Homestead Preserve",
only 450 homes over 3,000 acres. More coming up on this during
the Sunday column. www.thehomestead.com. Check it out.

4 HOURS SOUTH OF HOT SPRINGS..is Pinehurst and course #2
looks great after the renovations. Several new tees and angles add
to the layout that will host the 2014 Mens and Womens US Opens
on back to back weeks. The new waste bunkers and "love grass"
off the fairway bring an old style and original look back to # 2. The
greens have been regrassed and putt even a little more true.

PLEASE VISIT ...www.pinehurst.com. In the Carolina Hotel the
newly redone Ryder Cup lounge with big comfy chairs, sofas,
fireplaces and big screen TV's are awesome. I arrived just as
Duke and NC were tipping off. That's real college hoops, unlike
what the home state of Illinois provides us. More coming up on
Pinehurst # 2 in the days ahead, right here at the Gog Blog.

THE DORMIE CLUB..A private club to start with, has changed
it's long term plans. The membership ranks are filling and the
club will be all private again, and maybe as soon as later this
year. Highly recommended by yours truly, if your in Pinehurst
go play while you still can. After golf, The Dormie Clubs founding
partner Robert Hansen took me on a tour of his home. Hansen
you see now owns the famed Donald Ross house off the third
green of course #2. More on that in the days ahead. Visit
www.dormieclub.com. Another great Pinehurst area course.

LOCALLY..The Chicago Tribune did it again. First up their
announcement of the 2013 BMW going to Conway Farms is
old news. But is it, see recent Gog Blog columns for the full
story.

BIGGER SURPRISE..is yet another story on Butler National
changing it's all male membership and allowing in the gals.

Not likely, or at least anytime soon. The last time this was
rumored (another Tribune story), the fury roared through the
clubhouse. As a result the ranks pulled together, announced
a renewed commitment to current membership policies and
that was that. Members threatening to leave did not, and more
possible members thinking of joining who almost backed out
did not.

WHY CHANGE..well the thought of a US Open and the $$$
it would bring the club. Problem is the next US Open to be
announced, will not be this year but in 2013. That will be the
2020 US Open. Front runners for that one appear to be the
Southern Hills CC in Tulsa OK., or Oakland Hills CC in the
suburbs of Detroit MI.

2021 is expected to be back east. So then 2022 is up next
and that's where Butler could come into play. However since
that's 10 years off, any membership change at Butler could
be almost ten years away. If ever. What I really wonder is
how many Chicago Tribunes quickly made it to the dumpster
at the club when that story posted, or flushed down the you
know where in the same day.

FINALLY..OUT AT PEBBLE BEACH...Phil wins again after
having his season get off to rough start. Between legal issues
with a website, and his daughter fainting at school. 2012 did
not start the way "lefty" was hoping for on or off the course.

But his final round 64 while paired with Woods should give him
a whole load of confidence. While Woods the "Helicopter King"
for all his club flinging, including a whopper I hear on Saturday
backed up again at crunch time.

I give Tiger credit for his final round interviews after a tough day,
he did well. His game is coming around too, but it shows that
players are no longer afraid of him on Sunday.

What's sad is the media hype he gets already. Nick Flado just
couldn't wait to pick Woods to win on Saturday. ESPN is way
over the top with it's Tiger Alerts, someone there needs to get
a clue. PS..Where were those alerts on Sunday. Lefty alerts
were called for. Ratings for Sunday..way up so it's said. Maybe
that many people love watching Woods blow it. After all he is
tied with federal felon Michael Vick as the countries most disliked
athlete. It will take a while to live that down.

BIG 3 partners Len Ziehm and Tim Cronin are hard at work too,
Ziehm is in Florida where he just covered the Big Ten Match Play
Championship won again by the Wildcats of Northwestern over
the Minnesota Golden Gophers.

Tim Cronin who has launched Illinoisgolfer.net on the web, has
now informed us he is going into print as well. Starting this April,
so be on the lookout for that at your favorite golf course.

The Gog Blog returns later this week..okay Go Play..I did and it
was great.

THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT..RANTS,RAVES AND MORE

2012-02-07T03:46:25Z

It's your home for "The Gog Blog" and Golfers on Golf Radio.

MY CO-HOSTS..for the radio show Mike Munro and Ed Stevenson
(missing in photo Bill Berger). But today is the forum for yours truly
so I'll leave the partners out of this.

Mike Munro is busy at the White Pines Golf Dome. ***Go to the
Dome tell them you read the Gog Blog and get $2.00 off your bill
for hitting balls on weekdays only.

Ed Stevenson is a busy Director of Golf at the Dupage County
Forest Preserve District, where the graders are looking over the
final presentations of the five golf course architects competing
for the right to oversee the Oak Meadows GC renovation job.

In the meantime The Gog Blog Guy is going to hit the road,
Yes I have declared it..no not wabbit season..no not duck
season but GOLF SEASON.

SO IT'S OFF TO SEE THE NEW LOOK PINEHURST #2 HOME OF BOTH 2014
US OPENS, MENS AND WOMENS.

More on this when I return next week. But it's time for a
quick dash to North Carolina, and while visiting a couple
of other great properties while on the way to and from
Pinehurst. Of course only the Gog Blog Guy would start
the 2012 season with some new clubs on a US Open
course. Could be a rough ride.

CANITGNY GOLF..hosted the first golf show of the year
last Thursday,and it was nice to see them take the lead
in doing so. About a dozen equipment companies on hand,
and folks were showing up to see the latest golf equipment.

DEMO DAYS..this week at The White Pines Golf Dome.
Tuesday Yes Putters 5-6 PM and Adams Golf 6-9 PM.
Wilson comes in on Thursday night from 5-9 PM.

HOORAY FOR KYLE STANLEY..what a class guy and
it was great to see him bounce back from the disaster at
Torrey Pines to win yesterday in Phoenix. Stanley will win
more now with the monkey off his back.

Nice post round interview by runner up Spencer Levin who
coughed up the big Sunday lead to Stanley. You wonder if
that other guy some folks are talking about again would
have stopped and talked like that.

INTERNATIONAL JUNIOR GOLF TOUR..one of the leading
circuts for elite golfers from grades 5-12..Announces The
Discovery Tour, that will provide fun and enjoyable tournament
experiences for ages eight-12.

The new Discovery Tour will be held in conjunction with the
IJGT,that makes it convienant for familes with players on
both tours.The Gog Blog saw that White Pines and St.
Andrews are also open, so add them to the the list like Cog
Hill. If this weather holds Go Play.You will be glad you did.

The first event will be held at the IJGT Bridgestone Series at
Greate Bay Golf Club (Somers Point NJ.) March 31-April 1.
More information please visit www.IJGT.com or info@IJGT.com.
Or call (800)-792-9143.

THE GOG BLOG RETURNS NEXT MONDAY..with a recap of
Pinehurst and more.....

THE FEBRUARY GOG NEWS BLOG IS HERE..

2012-02-01T08:00:22Z

GOLFERS ON GOLF RADIO                                                              THE GOG BLOG GUY
Ed Stevenson-Spears- Mike Munro                                                              Rory Spears
THAT 2013 MODEL OF THE BMW CHAMPIONSHIP....might still be on
hold. As the 2013 BMW, the 2015 BMW and a BMW from beyond 2015
could be all tangled up in a crazy process.

HELLO AND WELCOME..to the February Gog News Blog. Golf season
is the Chicago area is creeping towards us, and based on the weather
of yesterday doesn't seem all that far away. The Cantigny Golf show
tee's up the start of golf show season in town tomorrow, with an 11 AM
tee-time. More on the golf shows coming up.

THE GOOD FOLKS AT THE WESTERN GOLF ASSOCIATION..the people
from BMW, the PGA Tour, Harding Park GC of San Francisco, and from
the Conway Farms GC in Lake Forest, need to do some schedule juggling
it appears. Hence the delay in making official announcements. More to come
on the BMW Championships future in Chicago, as the pieces come together.

THE GOG BLOG..along with BIG 3 partners Len Ziehm and Tim Cronin will
have more as the pieces do come together. Hopefully they all will and soon.
BIG 3 partner Tim Cronin is changing the address on his website. Golfers
can now find more of Tim at www.illinoisgolfer.net. The BIG 3 are discussing
their first round table podcast of 2012, details as they become available.

FIRST GOLF SHOW IN TOWN IS AT CANTIGNY TOMORROW FEB. 2

Many of the major equipment companies, along with other seminars
from the Cantigny professional staff, prizes and more. 11 AM until
8 PM, admission is $10.00 more info Cantignygolf.com or please call
(630)-260-8199.

SHOW # 2...Will be February 17-19 at the Tinley Park Exposition
Center located at I-80 and Harlem Avenue. For more information
call (708)-990-3379. Many of the south suburban courses will be
represented.

SHOW # 3..The Big Show..The Chicago Golf Show in Rosemont from
Feb. 24-26. www.chicagogolfshow.com. Get another FREE round of
golf from GolfVisions, FREE lessons from IPGA golf pros. Plenty of
prizes to win every hour. Mark Murphy winner of Big Break Ireland
will be on hand Fri-Sat. More details here as we get closer to show
time.

MIKE MUNRO'S WHITE PINES GOLF DOME, COMPLETE WITH DOUBLE DECKS
AND PUTTING GREEN...Special Gog Blog Readers***mention this
column and receive a $2 discount on range balls weekdays only.

White Pines one of the countries highest rated golf domes, and the
biggest and best dome here in Chicago. (630)-422-1066 for more info.
Located in Bensenville between Rt. 83 & York Road off Third Street.
UPCOMING DEMO DAYS..Start on Feb. 6th with Mizuno 5-9 PM,
Yes Putters and Adams golf on the 7th, Wilson Feb. 9th. Titliest
on Feb.13th 5-9 PM. and more TBA.

MAY 29TH IPEF MEDINAH PATRIOT DAY GOLF EVENT..is now
only 118 days away. Wanna play the Ryder Cup Course 120 days
before the cup tee's off here's your chance. Course 1 or Course 3
your choice. Event founder and director Mark Slaby joins the Gog
Blog later this month for a more detailed look at one of Chicago's
most anticipated charity golf outings. Medinahpatriotday.com....
Note:earlier date this year because of the Ryder Cup.

WILSON GOLF HAS SIGNED..it's first womens touring pro in some
years. Karen Stupples of Orlando FL. and past Womens British Open
champion. Stupples was 20th on the LPGA money list in 2011.

BILL COORE..LOOKS ON THE FUTURE SITE FOR ONE OF THE 13 HOLES
AT THE PRESERVE...The new Bandon Dunes Par 3 course that
will open in May. Coore and partner Ben Crenshaw are doing the
design. www.bandondunes.com. Bandon Dunes is operated by
the Northbrook based Kemper Sports Management.

NEXT UP...ON THE GOG BLOG'S BOOK SHELVES.

   FRONT COVER                                  BACK COVER
TWO GOOD ROUNDS..BY AUTHOR ELISA GAUDET.....a fun book
and great read of the best rounds, on and off the course. Hear from
Jack, Arnie, Annika, Ernie, Luke, Rory and more. How many drinks
have their hole-in-ones cost them. A full recap of Two Good Rounds
with Elisa Gaudet will be posted here later this month. Stay tuned.
Elisa's column www.onthelip.com. Or visit www.twogoodrounds.com.
Via Sky Horse Publishing. Amazon.com

FROM BRADLEY S. KLEIN                                            BY JAMES ROSS
www.discoveringdonaldross.com                           Now Available at Amazon.com
autographed copies are available                                www.authorjamesross.com

IF YOUR LOOKING FOR A GOLF OUTING...with DA Bears..may
I suggest the Lance Briggs-Charles Tillman Celebrity Golf Classic
on Monday June 25th. At the Conway Farms Golf Club in Lake
Forest, also home of the 2012 USGA Mid-Amateur Championship
this September.

For Sponsorship Information**** and other questions on this outing
that will benefit both players foundations. Call Michael O'Neal at
(312)-560-5509, or email michael@dogwoodsports.com.

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COACH MIKE SMALL..with the 2011
Big Ten Conference Championship team. The 2012 Illini squad are
teeing it up again in preparation of defending their title, and prepping
for another run back to the NCAA National Championship Tournament.
Illinois finished in the top eight teams at nationals last year.

Illinois defeated Illinois State University for the 9th straight time in the
Tinervin Cup by a 7-2 score, the Ryder Cup style event was held
last weekend in Florida.

Illinois and the rest of the Big Ten will chase defending champion
Northwestern on Feb.10th-11th at the Big Ten Match Play tournament
in Sarasota Florida. As Coach Pat Goss and the Wildcats go for two
wins in row.

WARM WEATHER HAS YOU WANTING TO PLAY..Courses 1 and 3
are open at Cog Hill in Lemont. Driving Range is open too. Please call
(866)-COG-HILL or visit www.coghillgolf.com. Cog Hill is always open
all year round.

TITLIEST GOLF..that has already announced new clubs across the
board in the last few months. Is now updating most of it's golf ball
line. Changes to the NXT and DT-Solo ball are new for 2012, and
there is a new addition called "The Velocity". For more info visit
Titleist.com.

THE NEW PGA TOUR STORE..is coming to Schaumburg at 1321
E. Golf (of course) Road in spring. A Chicago location will open later
this year. The store will have golf and tennis equipment and clothing.
The chain has 12 stores and is part of the holdings of several stores,
by Home Depot founder Arthur Blank owner of the Atlanta Falcons.

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME NIGHT GOLF.A Friday Night Party.
Kudos to the Arlington Heights Park District for offering night golf.
May 25th and June 22nd so far, more dates in July. Night golf is
played at the Nickoll Knoll nine hole Par 3 course on the north end
of town between Dundee and Lake Cook Roads. A special glowing
golf ball is used, bring your flashlight. Reservations are required
due to it's growing popularity. Call (847)-590-6050 to register.

THE 13TH HOLE AT THE PETE DYE DESIGNED POUND RIDGE GC, IN
POUND RIDGE NEW YORK. (photo by Jim Krajicek)

IF YOUR SPENDING ANYTIME IN NEW YORK..check out the
only Pete Dye designed course in the state Pound Ridge GC.
Located in Westchester County one-hour north of New York City.
The club is heading into it's fifth season. Season plans are now
available, in a luxury alternative to a private club membership.
The 7,165 yard par 72 design is cut between 172 acres of cliffs,
streams and wooded hills. Over 14,000 linear-feet of rock wall
surrounds the course.

POUND RIDGE GC..has already been earning awards from all
of the major golf publications. For more information on Pound
Ridge and 2012 season plans visit www.PoundRidgeGolf.com.
Or call (914)-764-5771.

That's all for this month in the Gog News Blog..it's warm out
GO PLAY, or at least practice at the White Pines Golf Dome.
Remember Feb.2 the Cantigny golf show...I'll see you there.

THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT..RANTS RAVES..MORE

2012-01-30T05:42:30Z

THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT..are the opinions of Gog Blog Guy Rory Spears (above),
and not always those of my partners on Golfers On Golf Radio, Ed Stevenson, Mike
Munro and Bill Berger (photo on the Westmoreland CC 18th fairway by Steve Leventhal).

RIGHT OFF THE TOP..A tip of the cap or golf visor to the following folks. Speaking
of Westmoreland CC, to head professional Hans Larson and his wife Stacy, congrats
on your new daughter Genevieve. Glad to hear, mom, dad and baby are doing well.

A THANK YOU..to Steve Leventhal the long time president of SRN Broadcasting
for creating our Gog Blog Logo, and best of luck with project #2 I have dumped
in your lap. May it turn out as well.

ANOTHER TIP TO A GUY WHO HANDS THEM OUT...to Ed Stevenson my radio
partner at Golfers On Golf, for his helpful ideas regarding our story about the Oak
Meadows GC in Addison. Stevenson the Director of Golf Operations for the Dupage
County Forest Preserve District, and the Dupage County FPD board will now have
the job of picking the architect who will oversee the renovations at Oak Meadows.

The final five will start presentations this week.The finalists are Ray Hearn, David
Esler, Robert Trent Jones Jr., Bob Lohmann, and the team of Greg Martin-Art
Schaupeter. Stevenson as a golf pro is normally handing out swing tips, today
he earns one from the Gog Blog.

MIKE MUNRO'S WHITE PINES GOLF DOME IN BENSENVILLE..IS ONE OF THE COUNTRY'S
HIGHEST RATED DOMES. It's also the biggest dome in the Chicago area.

**** A SPECIAL GOG BLOG READERS..AT THE WHITE PINES GOLF DOME..****
Mention you read the Gog Blog..and receive a $2 dollar discount on your bill during
WEEKDAYS ONLY.

RANT..GOES OUT TO THOSE OF YOU..who thought it was over after Round 3.
OOPS..Robert Rock #117 in the world..dusted you know who in the final round
at Abu Dhabi to win for the second time on tour. Rory McIlroy turned up his
game too in the final round for a second place finish. What was left on the
course was the normal trail of obscenities, but at last report no Nike products
were hurled, fliped or helicoptered across Abu Dhabi's sand piles.

SPEAKING OF ABU DHABI...Great story this past Thursday by Jeff Shain of
the Orlando Sentinel, on how somebody went to Abu Dhabi for the "Middle East
money grab"..AKA appearence fee. Maybe 1.7 million or maybe more. The same
person accused his former coach of going for an obvious cash grab by writing
a book about their time togther. What's that line about living in glass houses.

POOR KYLE STANLEY...the Gog Blog caught up with him when he almost
stole the three-peat from Steve Stricker at the John Deere Classic last
summer. But he handled a crushing defeat to Stricker well, then enjoyed
the fact he earned his way into the British Open and jumped on the John
Deere plane and took off. Everyone including Stricker agreed that Stanley
would have his day in the spotlight again before long.

Well that spotlight was yesterday, but for the wrong reasons. Stanley lost
a final round seven shot lead, that was four shots when he struck his tee
ball on 18. Brandt Snedeker ended up a surprised champion when the
playoff was over, while Stanley fought back the tears during the interviews.
But he did those interviews as tough as they were. Stanley showed he
was a winner on Sunday, and I still believe this won't hold him back from
winning on the PGA Tour.

REPORTED HERE LAST WEEK...was an update about the 2013 BMW
Championship headed into Lake Forest. But there still might be a hitch
to the championship, and it's not on the bumper of a sporty car or SUV.
More when the Gog News Blog returns on Wednesday.

THE PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW FOR 2012..is in the books. Special
thanks to BIG 3 Partner Len Ziehm for his help with the podcasts. Hopefully
the equipment makers start putting those products in the hands of golfers
a little sooner than normal.

JACK NICKLAUS.. who was the shows keynote speaker called the sport
of golf at a cross roads. One of his concerns seems to be from the fact
that only one of his 21 grandchildren play golf. A solid concern yes, but
there is more to it. Which will be the subject of an upcoming column here
at the Gog Blog.

THE TINERVIN CUP..held in Placida FL. was once again won by The
Fighting Illini by a 7-2 score over the Redbirds of Illinois State. Coach
Mike Small's team has won the Ryder Cup format event every year
giving them a 9-0 record. Coral Creek GC was the host. Illinois will
play next in the Big Ten Match Play Championship Feb. 10-11 held
in Sarasota. Small called the event, " a good start for our team."

COME THURSDAY..The Gog Blog visits the 1st Chicago golf Show of
the year in the Cantigny Golf Learning Center in Wheaton. It runs from
11 AM to 8 PM, plenty to see and do, equipment reps and prizes to win.

FEB. 24-26 marks the return of the Chicago Golf Show in Rosemont,
where you can find the first issue of Val Russell's Chicago Area Golf.
Your's truly will have a column about the year ahead in Chicago golf.

THE GOG NEWS BLOG RETURNS WEDNESDAY..until then find a
warm place to practice or play..over 50 degrees expected on Tuesday.
Some area courses are open year round.

THE PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW..WITH LEN ZIEHM DAY 3

2012-01-28T00:17:01Z

BIG 3 LEN ZIEHM IN ORLANDO

BIG 3 PARTNER........Len Ziehm continued to make to the rounds at
the PGA merchandise show, for one final day. His report came to us
from outside the convention center, so pardon some windy noise
picked up by the phone during the interview. It does get better as
the interview progresses.

THE GOG BLOG...will have some thoughts on the show come Monday
during the Gog Blog Speaks Out Column, plus a few other tidbits and
tap-ins.

CLICK HERE..FOR RORY'S INTERVIEW WITH LEN ZIEHM FROM
THE 2012 PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW..

59TH PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW RECAP WITH LEN ZIEHM

2012-01-26T21:27:10Z

THE BIG 3 GOLFERS ON GOLF RADIO
CRONIN-ZIEHM-SPEARS STEVENSON-SPEARS-MUNRO

BIG 3 PARTNER LEN ZIEHM IS ATTENDING THE PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW
IN ORLANDO FLORIDA.....

Ziehm's recap of the first two days via podcast is here.The
Golden Bear Jack Nicklaus was the keynote speaker for
the show on Thursday.

More later today at www.lenziehmongolf.com as well.

CLICK HERE FOR RORY'S PODCAST INTERVIEW WITH LEN ZIEHM
REGARDING DAY 1 AND 2 OF THE PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW IN
ORLANDO FLORIDA.

THE SEATTLE AREA'S SALISH CLIFFS..GOLF AND CASINO

2012-01-25T05:08:15Z

SALISH CLIFFS, HOLE # 4 ON THE GOG BLOGS TRAVEL DESTINATION TOUR..
SALISH CLIFFS JUST OVER ONE HOUR FROM SEATTLE WASHINGTON,
(above: The par 4 15th hole-photo by Brian Oar)

There is a new member to the Seattle area golf scene and
Salish (Say-lish) Cliffs has already opened some eyes.

This 7,300 yard par 72 Gene Bates design has made an
immediate, impact earning several awards including a
Best New Casino Course from Golfweek Magazine. Not
bad for a course that just celebrated it's "Grand Opening
Weekend", last September 16-18.

Salish Cliffs is part of the Little Creek Resort which is
operated by the Squaxin Island Tribe. There are over
200 rooms on site, and this property is far from done.

For those of you traveling by RV, the new RV park will
open later this year.

THE 15,000 SQUARE FOOT GREEN COMPLEX FOR HOLES 9 AND 18.
(photo by Brian Oar)

Salish Cliffs will put the golfer out in the middle of lush
great northwest forestry, for 16 of the 18 holes. While
on the course elevation change will become apparent,
as Salish Cliffs has over 600 feet of smooth transitions.

As a result, the club does not allow walking and carts
are mandatory. But the views from various points of the
course are stunning. Golfers can see Puget Sound and
the top of Mt. Rainer.

" It's a neat layout of 18 different holes, " said David Kass
the head professional at Salish Cliffs. " There is an big
elevation change, but landing area's are generous. That
makes the course enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels
and handicaps."

TO HEAR RORY'S INTERVIEW WITH DAVID KASS
FOR MORE ON SALISH CLIFFS CLICK HERE:

The Clubhouse at Salish is made from cedar Logs, the
second floor mezzanine looks out over the 9th and 18th
holes.

THE PAR 4 SECOND HOLE AT SALISH CLIFFS, AT THE LITTLE CREEK
Resort and Casino outside of Seattle Washington.(photo Brian Oar)

Architect Gene Bates followed a theme that would ensure
the course could be enjoyable for all players.

"I made the course large because the surroundings are
so big and beautiful, " Bates said. "The fairways are a
comfortable 40-50 yards wide, but there are plenty of
bunkers."

Kass feels holes 14 through 16 are a great stretch of
holes that will really challenge players.

"Fourteen is a great risk reward hole, " said Kass. "A
kind of blind tee-shot, with a demanding second shot
into the green that requires a carry over a wetland area.
Fifteen is a downhill drive and a uphill approach that
must carry bunkers right, or a false front left. While
sixteen is a tough long demanding dogleg par 4 right."

When done golfing, there are restaurants and a casino
on the property. A new spa should be completed this
year.

The drive out to Little Creek Resort is just over an hour
from Sea-Tac(oma) airport. For more information on
the golf and tee-times visit www.salish-cliffs.com or
call (360)-462-3673.

For more information on the resort and casino, you can
visit www.little-creek.com.

THE GOG BLOG SPEAKS OUT, RANTS, RAVES & MORE

2012-01-23T22:19:57Z

RORY SPEARS-LEN ZIEHM

IF YOU HAVEN'T..by now read my story on the Architect finalists for
the renovation project at Oak Meadows, you should. It's just the story
below this one.

The Dupage County Forest Preserve District has made some tough
choices already, and the job to pick the winner will be even harder.

GOOD LUCK.....To Ed Stevenson the DCFPD Director of Golf
Operations, the staff and board in making the best choice. All five
finalists have done work in the area with various municipalities, and
seem well suited to take on this job.

OAK MEADOWS..will be one of the premier jobs in not only the
Chicago area, but in the entire country. While the board of directors
has not yet voted to approve any set cost figure, millions could be
spent to redo the classic style golf course, improve the driving range
and rebuild the burned down clubhouse. A well done job could be
worthy of some national type awards.

THE CONSTRUCTION WORK..might start very late fall in 2013, but
will roll in 2014. In the meantime, go play and enjoy Oak Meadows
in it's original classic form. Play will not be interrupted in 2012, and
for most if not all of 2013.

THE 2013 CHICAGO GOLF SEASON, is apparently about to receive
a big boost. A little birdie tells the Gog Blog that the announcement
should now be close, of the host site for the 2013 BMW Championship.

While it's not clear if the ink on the contract is dry yet, we are told it's
location is a "done deal".

Chicago golf fans, the championship doesn't seem to be driving off to
another state either. In a year where Chicago is starving for golf events,
2013 will see the BMW Championship drive into Lake Forest. Near
the corner of the Tri-State Tollway Rt. 294 and Rt. 60. It seems that
Luke Donald for one, will be very happy with the announcement. So
will all the northsuburban BMW dealerships too. I send a congrats
to all parties involved.

BIG 3 PARTNER LEN ZIEHM...will begin his daily podcasts from the
PGA show in Orlando right here starting this Wednesday. Check into
the Gog Blog for all the latest..and visit www.lenziehmongolf.com for
more information.

For full recaps of the show. Everything you want to know, equipment,
clothes, accessories and more in golf.

ZIEHM..has already posted a preview story on his site, with a look at
what's new at Chicago based Wilson Golf...a long putter...hmmm.

BIG 3 PARTNER TIM CRONIN..has posted his "Front Nine" Column
today at www.golfinchicago.wordpress.com Tim has more on the
BMW Championship move up north and away from Cog Hill. Plus
fallout from the decision to "open" the Illinois Open to all.

ARCHITECT KEITH FOSTER...a good friend of yours truly has a
new venture going on. Foster who has been traveling like crazy in
recent years around the county, for his golf course design and
renovation work. Has been collecting antiques, furnishings, and
other great artifacts. No all of them are not just golf related things.
Check out, The Keith Foster Outpost www.keithfosteroutpost.com
to see the what's in the Outpost.

RAVES.........

A TIP OF THE CAP OR GOLF VISOR TO...Elmhurst's Mark Wilson
his third PGA Tour win in less than 13 months. It's obvious that with
early wins by Steve Stricker and Wilson, the midwest area guys are
going all out to make the USA Ryder Cup team at Medinah this
coming September.

TO FORMER NORTHWESTERN PLAYER DAVID LIPSKY..who
won the Asian Tour Q-school tournament. Lipsky will compete on
the Asian Tour starting with it's first event in Yangon, Myanmar
Feb. 2-5. Lipsky shot a four under par 68 final round to capture
the title. He credited NU coach Pat Goss and World #1 NU Alum
Luke Donald for sending him encouraging messages all week long.

TO GEOFF SHACKELFORD AND CRAIG DOLCH..for the work
put into surverying 81 PGA Tour Players, on the best and worst
PGA Tour Courses.

Poor Cog Hill..got pummeled. Finishing 46th out of 52 courses.
Comments about Cog included "worst redesign in history of the
PGA Tour" and that the late "Joe Jemsek must be spinning in
his grave."

The news was better for the D.A. Weibring designed TPC Deere
Run course in the Quad Cities, home of the John Deere Classic.
Deere Run finished 24th, with comments that included. " Fun
course even with soft greens." I wonder if that quote came from
the three-time defending champion Steve Stricker.

RANT........

AT THE GOLF CHANNEL...Concluded the final round on Sunday
by announcing their coverage from at the Farmers Insurance
Championship at Torrey Pines this week, okay. Then more
coverage with Tiger Woods at Abu Dhabi. ZZZzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Only one player talked about again, why couldn't they mention
the good players who will be at Abu....geez.

Please visit the Gog Blog this week, for more travel destinations
and all the best via Len Ziehm at the PGA Show in Orlando.

Winter is speeding past us...stay in golf shape at the White Pines
Golf Dome, owned and operated by Mike Munro one of our Golfers
on Golf Radio partners...WPGD is located in Bensenville.

All the best,.....RORY SPEARS...The Gog Blog Guy.

OAK MEADOWS NAMES COURSE ARCHITECT FINALISTS

2012-01-22T06:14:46Z

*******************GOG BLOG EXCLUSIVE********************************

OAK MEADOWS IS RISING FROM THE ASHES, THE FLOODS AND THE RUBBLE

Recent events at Oak Meadows GC in Addison, including a fire

that destroyed the clubhouse in 2009 and devastating floods from

summer storms have brought this classic Chicago area golf

course to a crossroad. With the insurance claim for the loss of the

clubhouse building settled, the immediate replacement of a

permanent clubhouse building may have seemed like a logical

next step. However, golf course officials have taken the opportunity

to step back and look at the bigger picture. Instead of starting a

search for a clubhouse architect, Oak Meadows began a search

for a golf course architect to create a new "master plan" for the

entire property.

Originally built and operated as the private Elmhurst Country Club,

this traditional tree-lined course became open to the public as Oak

Meadows in the mid-1980's. According to Director of Golf Ed

Stevenson, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

"acquired the course in 1985, recognizing its value for storm water

retention, open space, and recreation." Salt Creek runs through the

golf course and in recent summers Oak Meadows's ability to hold

flood water has been tested.

HEAVY RAINS LAST JULY INTERRUPTED PLAY AT OAK MEADOWS

(notice 150 yard pole in the middle of flooded area)

Stevenson says a new clubhouse for Oak Meadows is important,

"but as the old saying goes, nobody goes to the golf course to play

the clubhouse." The development of a master plan by a golf course

architect gives Oak Meadows a chance to realize multiple benefits.

"A successful re-design would position Oak Meadows as one of the

best public courses near Chicago for decades to come. It would

improve the course layout and make it less vulnerable to flooding.

It would also increase the ability to hold storm water, create high

quality environmental areas, and allow Oak Meadows to take

advantage of modern environmentally friendly maintenance

practices." An integrated multi-use trail, improved practice center,

and a junior golf area could all be part of the mix too. Knowing the

options for re-routing the course will let Oak Meadows make sure

that a new clubhouse is built in the right place.

When the Forest Preserve announced they were looking for a golf

architect to design a master plan for Oak Meadows, over 20

submitted their qualifications for the job. Many were well known

names in the industry. That list is now narrowed to five finalists,

whose names will be familiar to local golfers. A few of them are

hard at work currently in the Chicago area.

The Finalists are:

1. Greg Martin/Art Schaupeter.

Martin is currently doing renovation projects in Wheaton at

Arrowhead GC, with the second nine holes expected to reopen
this May. Martin has started work at Fox Run GC in Elk Grove.
Martin's work at Phillips Park in Aurora has been well received
by area golfers. Martin did renovation work at Settler's Hill GC,
run by the Kane County Forest Preserve District. His master
plan is also complete for a renovation project at the over 100
year old Wilmette Park District GC. Art Schaupeter who served
as assistant to Keith Foster at Shepherd's Crook in Zion, and
took over for Foster in the early stages at "The Highlands of
Elgin" to finish the course, has been named to Martin's team for
the project. Schaupeter was the lead architect for "The Club at
Old Hawthorne" in Columbia Mo., the home course for the
University of Missourri golf teams. He has several highly rated
course designs in Texas.

2. Ray Hearn

Hearn who is an Evans Scholar is best known in Chicago for his

work at Mistwood GC in Romeoville, the site of the Phil Kosin Illinois

Womens Open. Hearn is also currently taking the course through a

renovation and Mistwood is expected to reopen at some point this

May. Hearn's work on the south suburban Flossmoor CC earned

him "Best Renovation of 2009 Award" by Golf World Magazine.

Hearn was the original architect at Island Hills GC in SE Michigan

that many Chicago golfers have traveled to play. Hearn is currently

making changes to Island Hills under the new ownership group.

3. David Esler

Esler is best known for his natural prairie style design in west

suburban Sugar Grove called the Black Sheep GC. Black Sheep

has been named by Golfweek Magazine as one of the America's

Greatest 100 Courses (Modern List/courses built since 1960). Esler

has done renovation work at Elgin CC, The Glenview Club, and the

recently made public south suburban Ravisloe GC. He also did

renovation work at Twin Orchards in Long Grove, after flooding
(like at Oak Meadows) damaged the course. Twin Orchards was
designed by C.D. Wagstaff, who was the same architect back in
the 1920's at Oak Meadows (then called, The Elmhurst CC).

4. Robert Trent Jones Jr.

Jones has two projects in the Chicago area that golfers have

enjoyed for years. In DuPage, Jones designed Prairie Landing GC

in West Chicago, while up in Lake County Jones worked with the LC

Forest Preserve District in designing Thunderhawk in Beach Park.

Another RTJ Jr. project at Fort Sheridan is still on hold by the county.

Jones Jr. has worked at Crystal Tree in Orland Park. He is a finalist

for the 2016 olympic games course in Rio, and his Chambers Bay

GC near Seattle will host the 2015 US Open. Jones also designed

the home course for the University of Wisconsin Badgers, University

Ridge near Madison. His design at the Hyatt Regency Poipu Bay on
the Hawaiian island of Kauai; is the former home of the PGA's Grand
Slam of Golf, that brings together the winners of that years four major
championships.

5. Bob Lohmann

Lohman has done several projects in the Chicago area, but his

renovations in Wheeling at "The Traditions at Chevy Chase" are

maybe his best known work. Lohmann also designed Boulder Ridge

in northwest suburban Lake in the Hills. Lohmann also renovated the

Deerpath GC in Lake Forest. Lohmann was the designer that
produced the Merit Club in Libertyville, that hosted the 2000
US Womens Open. He also did a 2003 renovation at the south
suburban Midlothian CC.

The five architects will come and meet DuPage Forest Preserve staff

to do a presentation and sit for interviews with the panelists working

on the project. Those are expected to start happening before the

month ends. According to Stevenson, the District will attempt to

negotiate a contract with the top candidate and get final approval

from the board of Forest Preserve Commissioners.

The Gog Blog will have a follow up story announcing the architect
who will design the Oak Meadows master plan as soon as they
are hired.

Oak Meadows has an old classic course look and feel to it, because

that's exactly what it is. So many times these days the great classic

course renovations are done at private country clubs, and when the

renovations are complete the general public can't play them. That

won't happen at Oak Meadows. As a public facility operated by the

DuPage Forest Preserve, public golfers will continue to get access.

If Oak Meadows is on your list of courses to play this season, don't

worry. The existing course recovered nicely from last summer's

flooding and the design, approval, and permitting for any project like

this is expected to take time. The GOG Blog speculates that it would

be late 2013 or early 2014 before any construction would interrupt play.

However, if approved, golfers can at least look forward to seeing the

architect's vision of future plans on paper by sometime this summer.

In the meanwhile if you haven't played the existing classic Oak

Meadows layout where Ben Hogan won the 1941 Chicago Open,

you should while you still can. Course officials promise that any new

designs for Oak Meadows will be sure to retain the traditional and

historic feel of the former Elmhurst Country Club. But for now you
can still test your game on the layout where Hogan beat Snead, so
when the snow melts ; head to Oak Meadows and GO PLAY!

FIRE UP FOR FARMLINKS GOLF AND HUNTING

2012-01-19T22:35:36Z

THE GOG BLOGS WINTER GOLF DESTINATIONS, HOLE # 3..FARMLINKS. ALABAMA

5TH HOLE, FARMLINKS GC AT PURSELL FARMS SYLACAUGA ALABAMA

FARMLINKS GC located at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga Alabama,
is now ranked in the Golf Digests 75 Best Golf Resorts in North
America. Farmlinks came in at # 39. Golfweek Magazine rates
Farmlinks the #1 Public course in Alabama.

Pursell Farms is 3,500 acres, located less than 50 miles from
Birmingham. Farmlinks GC is just part of the Pursell Farms
package.

Guests can come and fire at the flag sticks, or at quail. Golfers
can hunt for birdies on or off the course. Year round fishing is
another option, and we don't mean fishing your Titliests out of
a creek or pond. But largemouth bass and bream in FarmLinks
lakes.

THE PAR 3 17TH HOLE AT FARMLINKS GC

The Farmlinks golf club was designed in 1999 by architects
Dr. Michael Hurdzan and Dana Frey (designers of Erin Hills).
Farmlinks is a par 72 championship golf course that plays
7,444 yards from the back tees.

Public play is always welcome and the green fees are an
all-day rate. So once you pay, you can play the rest of the
day. Top fee is only $135 prior to 10:30 AM. $100 dollars
after 1 PM. Fees include green fees for unlimited golf, and
unlimited use of practice facilites, range balls, cart and a
southern style lunch, snacks, beverages and ice-cold
apples on the course.

Farmlinks is more than just a golf course. It is a testing
ground for agronimic research and demonstration. Over
1,000 golf course superintendents come visit Farmlinks
each year to see the latest things to keep golf courses
at a premium. As a result, Farmlinks will be one of the
best condtioned courses you will ever play. Multiple
course product manufacturers have ties with Farmlinks,
to test the newest products there on site.

THE PAR 5 18TH HOLE AND CLUBHOUSE AT FARMLINKS.

Farmlinks does not have a hotel on the property, just more
relaxing and comfortable cottages and cabins. In addition
Farmlinks can provides guests with high-tech meeting
spaces, for those individuals or groups that need to conduct
business before or after golfing, hunting and fishing.

TO HEAR MORE ABOUT FARMLINKS...CLICK HERE TO
HEAR RORY'S INTERVIEW WITH FARMLINKS DIRECTOR
OF GOLF JOHN TRAWICK.

The weather in January has been holding in the 60's so far
and will start to get better in the weeks ahead. So bring your
golf clubs, your rifle, or fishing pole and visit Farmlinks.

Erle Fairly, presdient of Farmlinks promises that guests
will receive unparalleled customer service and fine southern
cuisine. While enjoying great golf on a PGA Tour-quality
course.

For more information on Farmlinks call (877)-292-FARM
(3276), or visit www.farmlinks.org. Farmlinks can be found
on all social media outlets, such as Facebook, Twitter,
and Linkedin. Visit and LIKE the FB page to receive special
deals the general public does not get.

GOLF THE GULF, IN GULF SHORES ALABAMA

2012-01-17T22:33:40Z

THE SECOND HOLE OF OUR WINTER GOLF TOUR....GULF SHORES ALABAMA

THE SHORELINE IN GULF SHORES ALABAMA. HOME TO NINE GREAT GOLF COURSES

Look out the window Chicago golf fans. Look at the photos above
and below, where would you rather be. I thought so. Gulf Shores
Alabama has nine golf courses and more just waiting for you to
arrive. The temperature today is 73 degrees.

In a place where the locals yell "Roll Tide", golfers can watch the
tide roll by as they make their way around an area complete with
180 holes of golf.

Gulf Shores Alabama is a 32-mile stretch of Gulf Coast beach that
has mild winter temperatures, great golf, great food, nice places
to stay and plenty to do when off the course.

CRAFT FARMS IS HOME 36 HOLES OF ARNOLD PALMER DESIGNED COURSES,
(Cotton Creek GC on the left, and sister course Cypress Bend above right)

"The Gulf Coast's winter weather is very pleasant, especially
for folks who otherwise be shoveling snow in bitter wind chills,"
said Duncan Millar, executive director of Golf Gulf Shores. "The
attractive rates on our nine courses, great food and beverage
options and a host of area activities make Gulf Shores the perfect
winter golf destination."

TO HEAR RORY'S INTERVIEW WITH DUNCAN MILLAR ON
GOLF GULF SHORES..CLICK HERE

Those other activites include. Fishing, winter is a great time
for catching Bull Redfish. Why not hit a early morning fishing
charter, and your bag full of Titleists in the afternoon.

If you love seafood Gulf Shores has plenty of seafood restaurants,
or pick up the "catch of the day" at Blalocks Fish Market and
cook them yourself at the condo.

If shopping is your thing, try both the Foley and Tanger Outlets,
popular for deals and specials. Orange County Art Center is
known as a must see venue, it has artists in residence. There
is also the Ten-Mile slow drive through the Bon Secour National
Wildlife Refuge. Or try the popular pub crawl..it' starts at Lulu's
the sister of Jimmy Buffett. Tours of historic Fort Morgan that
will celebrate it's 151st anniversary on Jan. 29th, are always
enjoyable.

Arnold Palmers signature designed courses at Craft Farms,
Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend are both fun and challenging
for any golfer. Cotton Creek is lined with Southern Hardwoods
while Cypress Bend has it's share of cord-grass accented lakes.

Glenlakes Golf Club is a scottish style links course designed
by Count Von Hagge, the course is complete with extensive
bunkering and postage-stamp size greens.

THE 16TH HOLE AT THE AWARD WINNING KIVA DUNES GOLF CLUB.

Kiva Dunes a Jerry Pate design is rated a "Top 100 Golf Course
in America by Golf Digest.

Lost Key Golf Club, was redesigned by the Arnold Palmer Design
group in 2006, the course winds through woods and wetlands. It
also features a new clubhouse.

The Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club, complete with 27 holes
and chilled apples on the tee. The course has 30 lakes and
wraps around the Bon Secour Wildlife Preserve.

Rock Creek Golf Club has rolling terrain and fairways lined with
pine trees. Designed by Earl Stone.

Timber Creek Golf Club, another Earl Stone design that has a
Carolina course feel to it. Complete with pines, dogwoods, and
magnolias.

Gulf Shores Golf Club, this course was formerly known as the
Golf Club of the Wharf, and was the first course in Gulf Shores.

Orignally opened in 19060, was redigned by Jay and Carter
Morrish in 2005.

With the weather great for golf, and plenty of good food,cold
beverages and more to enjoy. Why not make Gulf Shores a
winter getaway for you now.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON GULF SHORES ALABAMA.
Please visit www.golfgulfshores.com. Or call (888)-815-1902.
There are package rates valid with Golf Shores accommodation
partners through Feb.26.

Gulf Shores will be present at the Chicago Golf Show in Rosemont
Feb. 24-26. See their booth there.

THE GOG BLOGS SUNDAY MORNING SHORT GAME

2012-01-15T06:40:53Z

                THE BIG 3                                                                          GOLFERS ON GOLF RADIO
      CRONIN-ZIEHM-SPEARS                                                          STEVENSON-SPEARS-MUNRO

      SPEARS-ZIEHM
Will team up on daily podcasts
from the PGA show Jan. 26-28.

BIG THREE NEWS......Len Ziehm www.LenZiehmOnGolf.com will report daily
from Orlando at the PGA of America merchandise show coming up later this
month Jan. 26-28. The PGA merchandise show is the biggest golf show of
the year.

This year for the first time in years, almost all of the major golf equipment
makers will be in the house. The show not only has equipment, but many
top professionals stop by various show booths to help out products they
endorse. Apparel and golf items galore are on hand to be seen by buyers
and media from everywhere.

As each day winds down Ziehm will call in, and the Gog Blog will post a
Podcast recaping Ziehm's observations and other news of the day. Ziehm
will have a full story at his site as well. But for daily updates from the PGA
Show, keep it right here at the Gog Blog.

CANTIGNY GOLF WILL HOST THE FIRST CHICAGO SHOW OF 2012 ON THURSDAY FEB.2ND
(Golfers hit all winter at the new Cantigny golf academy)

YES..thats' correct Thursday Feb. 2nd. From 11 AM- 8 PM, admission
is $10, but parking is FREE. Eight of the top equipment manufacturers
are already signed up to take part. It will be Cantigny's first golf show.

In addition to the equipment makers, there will be seminars from the
Cantigny professional staff and a golf fitness demonstration. There are
prize drawings every 30 minutes.

"This event provides a great chance to see the new product lines for
2012, but our guests will have access to the experts in the field, that
includes the equipment reps and our own clubfitters, Everett Lockenvitz
and Pat Hickey, " said Patrick Lynch, Cantigny head golf professional.
"We're also looking forward to showing off our year round academy,
especially to first time visitors."

Preregistered guests can enter to win a free foursome of golf at Cantigny.
Registration is open at CantignyGolf.com. by phone at (630) 260-8199.

GOLF SHOW #2...Is at the Timley Park Exposition Center I-80 and
Harlem Avenue Feb. 17-19 more info. (708)-990-3379.

GOLF SHOW #3...The big one. The Chicago Golf Show. Feb. 24-26,
at the Donald Stephens Convention Center Rosemont. More info is at
www.chicagogolfshow.com.

THE ILLINOIS PGA..put out the 2012 playing schedule last Friday, there
are some changes from past years.

FIRST UP CHANGES ON THE ILLINOIS OPEN...for a look at the process
story, visit BIG 3 partner Tim Cronin's www.golfinchicago.wordpress.com.
It's an interesting behind the scenes look at what happened when the
motion was made to make the Illinois Open..a real OPEN..to everyone
from anywhere championship, was proposed.

OTHER ILLINOIS OPEN CHANGES INCLUDE...dates and location. First
up is the date, which has been moved up. To July 16-17-18 which means
it starts the day after the John Deere Classic ends. It will tee off this year
at another Kemper Sports property in 2012. No more Hawthorn Woods
and hello again Glen Club. Phil Arouca is defending champion.

More changes..the IPGA Match Play at Kemper Lakes is May 14-17
(defending champion Jim Sobb), will be held two weeks before the IPGA
Senior Match Play Championship at Shoreacres May 29-31. Where
the defending champion is..again Jim Sobb.

THE 51ST RADIX CUP MATCHES..are June 13th at Oak Park CC. The
amateurs currently hold the cup. The Illinois PGA Championship will
be held August 27-29 at Stonewall Orchard GC, in Grayslake. Frank
Hohenadel is defending champion.

CANTIGNY GOLF'S RICH DUKELOW..is expected to defend his title
at the IPGA Players Championship on Oct. 8th and 9th at Eagle Ridge
in the seasons final major. For more on IPGA events visit IPGA.com.

THE COG HILL CORNER......Course #4 Dubsdread has been named
the 22nd toughest course in America by Golf Digest that used it's
rating panelists to vote on the top 75 toughest. Only Butler National
#11 and Medinah's 3 course at #16 in Illinois were rated harder.

REMINDER..Cog Hill is open all year round. Courses 1 & 3 anyway.
In the proshop all apparel is 40 % off in January.

GOLF RATES AT COG HILL...for 2012 will be the same as 2011. No
price increase. Thank You Jemsek Family. No word on the Jemsek
golf run Pine Meadow GC rates in Mundelein yet. 1-(866)-COG-HILL
or visit www.coghillgolf.com.

GOLF ON SUPERBOWL SUNDAY...LAS VEGAS...at Bali Hai GC,
18 hole shotgun 9 AM followed by super bowl party. Sun. Feb 5th.
Only $299 per player, golf, food, drinks included. (888)-427-6678.

NBA ALL-STAR WEEKEND AND GOLF..Orlando FL. at Arnie's
very own Bay Hill Lodge and Golf. It's the All-Star Invitational on
Feb. 24th. 40 names from the sports and entertainment world join
amateurs for golf. All proceeds go to the various Arnold Palmer
Foundation Charities. The event will be hosted by Anthony Anderson.
For info. Call Ty Devallade (407)-656-1655 Ty@golfquests.com.

WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR GAME..you can do so at the Pinehurst
Golf Advantage School at the Pinehurst Resort. Two amateurs named
Mike McClanahan and Bill Friese are trying to drop ten shots off
their game in one week. Follow their progress on FB-Twitter and on
YouTube more info. www.pinehurst.com.

FOR THE BEST IN GOLF CLAENDARS..And other golf pictures,
that can be sent to your I-phone/pod/pad. visit www.golfshots.com.
By Evan Schiller.

TEACHER CHRIS SPALLA.. now has a second Illinois Winter home
for teaching. The Bridgeview Sports Dome 8900 South 77th Ave.
For instruction (708)-710-2005. Spalla is still found at TPC Chicago
in Justice.

MIKE MUNRO'S WHITE PINES GOLF DOME IN BENSENVILLE (630)-422-1060

The best in town for winter golf practice has more club demo days
coming up. January..Titleist Jan.19 5-9 PM. Ping Jan. 18th 6-9 PM,
more dates are coming soon. Five dates are confirmed for Feb., stay
linked in here for more info.

GOG Blog readers..on your next visit to the White Pines Golf Dome
if you don't see our sign at the counter advertising the Gog Blog.
Please give owner Mike Munro a hard time for not having it up yet.
LOL.

In the meantime..Thanks to everyone that has been reading us of
late.Our numbers are way up this winter. You the golfer have made
us the number #1 golf news website in Chicago. Again Thank You.

The snow has fallen..but GO Practice in the Dome or hit the warm
weather destinations and GO Play. Another warm weather spot in
Alabama called The Farm..appears this week on the Gog Blog.

12 REASONS FOR CHICAGO GOLFERS TO BE EXCITED FOR 2012

2012-01-12T19:58:56Z

THE GOG BLOG PRESENTS..12 REASONS FOR CHICAGO
TO BE EXCITED ABOUT GOLF IN 2012.

#12 THE BIG 3...TIM CRONIN,LEN ZIEHM & RORY SPEARS...over 100
years of golf reporting experience in Chicago. The trio plans on bringing
Chicago the golf coverage it deserves. Found on three big websites is all
the golfer needs.

Golfersongolf.com. Rory Spears Lenziehmongolf.com. and from Tim Cronin
Golfinchicago.wordpress.com.

#11..MAY 29TH MEDINAH PATRIOT DAY. MEDINAH COUNTRY CLUB

WILL BE ONE OF THE BEST..golf outings this year in the Chicago area.
IPEF..headed up by Chairman Mark Slaby will put on a great show for a
great cause. It's expected there will be again some limited opportunites
to play Medinah's Course #3 at this outing. Only 120 days before the
Ryder Cup tee's off. More info MedinahPatriotDay.com.

#10.OAK MEADOWS GC RISES FROM FIRE AND FLOOD WATERS.

THE RUBBLE GETS CLEARED AWAY AT OAK MEADOWS...Now the plan
to renovate the course, eliminate the flooding and build a new clubhouse are
going forward. Dupage County is hoping to name the archtiect that will lead
the project in the upcoming weeks. Then the new master plan can be done.
Oak Meadows GC (630)-595-1800. Dupagegolf.com for more info.

#9. COG HILL. With no BMW Championship at Cog Hill for the first time in
years, and with no renovations going on. Cog Hill will have more open tee
times on Dubs (course #4) than anytime in years. No tournament week,
no advance shutdown, no cleanup. No cart path restrictions. Just pure golf
everyday, enjoy. The Jemseks will welcome you with open arms, they are
great hosts.

THE PAR 3 6TH HOLE ON DUBSDREAD. www.coghillgolf.com or please
call 1-(866)-COG-HILL.

#8. THE CANADIEN PGA TOUR MIDWEST PRO-AM. Sept. 10-16 at
The Grove CC, in Long Grove. (was previously Royal CC of Long Grove
in 2011, and Hillcrest CC in 2010).

THE CLUBHOUSE AT "THE GROVE". If you have ever wanted to play
in a pro-am, like the one you see at Pebble Beach. Here is your chance
and you don't have to fly to California. Okay, no ocean here either but
you don't want to play shots from there anyway.

A few years back. The Gog Blog Guy, played in one of these pro-ams
with the Canadien PGA Tour at Barton Creek in Texas, and it was one
of the best golf experiences ever. Even with missing the cut by 2 shots.
This event will be one very fun week. www.dogwoodsports.com or call
(312)-560-5509.

#7.MISTWOOD GC IN ROMEOVILLE REOPENS,after renovations.

ARCHITECT RAY HEARN..and crew got a good early start last summer
and that will payoff this spring. Re-opening expected mid-late May and
golfers will enjoy the new renovations complete with some 30+ British
Open style bunkers. It will be a great test for the players in the Phil
Kosin Illinois Womens Open. www.mistwoodgolf.net. (815)-254-3333.

#6. ARROWHEAD GOLF CLUB IN WHEATON..reopens it's South 9
after renovations by Greg Martin.

Martin and crew redid the Arrowhead GC East 9 in 2010, that already reopened
in 2011. The South nine has just a little sodding to finish up in the spring. But is
expected to reopen in mid-late May. Once it does, golfers need to go play the
finished 18 holes. It will be a treat. www.arrowheadgolfclub.org (630)-510-5070.
Arrowheads third nine the West 9, will start renovation in the fall of this year.
White sand bunkers, some tree removal and really improved greens await those
who visit Arrowhead in 2012.

#5..Big time tournaments within driving distance. The BMW Championship, The
Womens US Open, The Senior PGA Championship.

THE BMW CHAMPIONSHIP              THE US WOMENS OPEN         SENIOR PGA CHAMPIONSHIP
     CROOKED STICK                            BLACKWOLF RUN                       HARBOR SHORES GC

WITH IN..only a couple of hours driving time from Chicago, golfers can
see the BMW Championship at the Pete Dye designed Crooked Stick
GC, just north of Indianapolis Sept. 3-9. The US Womens Open from
July 2-8 in Kohler Wis., From May 22-28 The Senior PGA Championship
In Benton Harbor MI. at the Jack Nicklaus designed Harbor Shores GC.

All events well worth the drive. More info.www.bmwchampionshipusa.com.,
2012uswomensopen.com.,pga.com/seniorpga/2012.com. Get your tickets
now while you still can.

#4 THE USGA MID-AM AT CONWAY FARMS AND KNOLLWOOD.

THE PAR 3 17TH AT CONWAY FARMS                      THE CLUBHOUSE AT KNOLLWOOD

THE USGA RETURNS TO THE CHICAGO AREA..from Sept.10-16 in Lake Forest
with the Mid-Amateur Championship. Hosted by the Tom Fazio designed Conway
Farms GC, with Knollwood CC serving as the second course. Knollwood was
recently renovated by Keith Foster. For more information visit www.usga.org.

312 PLAYERS..will battle over the course of a week, in stroke and match play
to determine the champion.

#3. THE WESTERN AMATEUR AT EXMOOR CC IN HIGHLAND PARK.




      ETHAN TRACY                           DAVID CHUNG                                    JOHN HAHN
2011 NORTHSHORE CC                 2010 SKOKIE CC                         2009 CONWAY FARMS GC

WHO WILL JOIN..these three Chicago area champions as the next
Western Amateur Champion by winning the Western Amateur this
summer at Exmoor CC, in Highland Park. For more information call
(847)-724-4600 or visit www.wgaesf.com. Dates July 30-Aug 4th.

#2. STEVE STRICKER GOES FOR THE SLAM AT THE JOHN DEERE CLASSIC

THIS IS GETTING TO BE A FAMILIAR SIGHT IN JULY AT THE JOHN DEERE
CLASSIC, at the TPC Deere Run golf course.

Steve Stricker just keeps on winning, and winning, and winning in
the quad cities. After already winning in 2012 at Kapalua, he just
might do it again this July 9-15. It's very rare a PGA Tour player
defends his title, much less twice at the same event.

Four in a row can he complete, the Stricker Slam or the Quad
Deere Championship in the Quad Cities. Get in the car and go,
it's history in the making. Tournament Director Clare Peterson
and staff always put on a great show, it's time for you to go if
you haven't been there. For more information please visit,
www.johndeereclassic.com. Always a great event.

#1. THE 2012 RYDER CUP CHAMPIONSHIP SEPT.28-30 AT MEDINAH CC.


THE 2012 RYDER CUP AT MEDINAH CC..is one of those one in a
lifetime events you don't want to miss. Team USA headed up by
Captain Davis Love III, will try and regain the cup that was lost in
2010 to the European team that will be lead by Captain Jose
Maria Olazabol. For more information www.pga.com.

THERE YOU GO CHICAGO GOLF FANS. PLENTY TO LOOK FORWARD
TO, GO OUT ENJOY AND PLAY. IT SHOULD BE A GREAT 2012.