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Northern Michigan Golf Mecca of Gaylord is home to 16 Premier Golf Courses The ingredients of a great Texas summer golf trip are fairly basic. Wide variety of courses and somewhere cooler than constant 90-100 degrees back home. Ease of access is a big plus and so is plenty to do when golf is done for the day. To which the Northern Michigan Golf Mecca of Gaylord answers check, check, check and a very refreshing check. From great courses, great weather, direct flights from two of Texas’ largest cities, Gaylord really does have it all for a summer getaway. “We have found over many years people from Texas love Gaylord and Northern Michigan. They love the great value, great variety, great food, golf and plenty of non-golf activity,” said Paul Beachnau, executive director of the Gaylord Area Convention & Tourism Bureau. Gaylord, located in the lower half of Michigan’s Northern Peninsula or Mitt, has 16 different courses to choose from by some of the greatest designers in the business. Tom Fazio, Robert Trent Jones, local favorite Rick Smith and former PGA Tour player Gary Koch have all produced great works here. Plus, you want golf history? How about one of the most famous Par 3 courses in America and its most famous Million Dollar Ace by none other than Texan Lee Trevino at the iconic Threetops short course. Gaylord really does have it all. But first you have to start by getting there. No more annoying delays or possible missed connections, as again this summer both Houston and Dallas will have nonstop flights to the scenic and convenient Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City. “We know Houston and the nonstop service is an absolute home run,” said Beachnau. “In Dallas, we started in with a single jet and upgraded to a jumbo airliner with a full flight. This year Houston’s nonstop service to TVC starts a month earlier, in late May, as well as Dallas.” From there it’s only an hour ride via shuttle or rental car to one of the many Gaylord golf destinations, and that’s where the fun really begins. With an embarrassment of golf riches in the Gaylord area, the biggest problem a golfer has is which course to play first. Gaylord Michigan-America's Summer Golf Mecca. Home to 16 Premier Golf Courses “I really believe The Tribute at the Otsego Resort is a hidden gem in our area,” said Bechnau, “so many people know about the famous Treetops Resort and the Threetops par 3, but former PGA tour golfer and TV commentator Gary Koch did The Tribute at the Otsego Resort and it’s really, really good.” “We also had a lot of people playing at Gaylord Golf Club, which is open to the public, and report they have the most per­fect greens and putting conditions on any course we have here. There are so many great choices in the Gaylord area this year” Bechnau said. For those seeking a close walk from their room to the greens, Garland Lodge and Golf Resort and Black Lake Golf Club serve up resort accommodations and championship golf. Garland’s four courses weave their way through meadows, hard­woods and pines, and make ample use of the abundant natural water. Adding to Beachnau’s pointers on hid­den gems, the United Auto Workers golf property open for public play, Black Lake’s expansive grounds are equally as impres­sive as their 18 holes designed by Rees Jones. Partnering with these stellar resort properties are more stand-alone courses which offer immaculate greens, superior dining and friendly service. Among the Gaylord Golf Mecca’s members are Black Bear, a real gem, Lakes of the North Golf Course and Indian River Golf Club, which recently celebrated 100 years of service. All three standalone courses offer an excellent opportunity to enjoy the extra hours from daylight savings time and get in another round before the sun sets. Big-game golf hunters still come to Michigan to immediately seek out Treetops Resort to play the scenic Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Masterpiece course, which was one of his last designs in 1987 and helped coin the resort’s name. From the popular par-3 No. 6 hole tee, your golf ball drops 180 feet, and your view stretches for over 40 miles and hundreds of trees. It’s built close to the club­house and lodging and makes a perfect headquarters for your Gaylord golf quest. Famed designer Tom Fazio has also made his mark on the Gaylord Golf Mecca. His work at Treetops is the only Fazio design in Michigan, called Premier. It is stunning and designed with the resort golfer in mind, for fun and challenge all at the same time. Another big-game and big-name course is the Signature, which was designed by renowned swing coach Rick Smith, a local native. It com­bines the strong features of golf found in Ireland. Michaywe Pines Golf Course has been the host to the Golf Associa­tion of Michigan’s annual qualifiers and a top course in the Gaylord golf empire. A popular add-on for any golf package in the Mecca is the beloved Threetops Par-3 course at Treetops, home of the former ESPN Par-3 Shootout and often tagged the No. 1 par-3 course in America. The Shootout helped put the region on the national map, featuring superstars Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples and Jack Nicklaus over the years, and scored its biggest ESPN national replays when Lee Trevino aced the seventh hole in 2007. It’s regarded as the richest payday ever for a single shot – a cool $1 million. A plaque commemorating the moment sits on the tee and awaits golfers hoping to match the big skin or recreate some Texas Trevino magic. Of course all that great golf and views can make a person powerful hungry. There are plenty of great places to dine in Gaylord, 5 minutes from the Treetops Masterpiece course. Choices range from thick steaks and plenty of liquid to wash them down with to Italian, German and Michigan native food, or a good chicken fried steak to make you feel right at home. If you want to stay on property, almost all of the resorts provide a hearty breakfast, great sports bars and fantastic nearby dining to choose from. If you need to check off all the ingredients to what makes a good summer golfing escape, then Gaylord and its nonstop flights from Texas’ biggest cities can fill your link travel requirements. Visit www.GaylordGolfMecca.com

A Tradition Celebrating Native American Heritage & Culture The Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana will host its 29th annual powwow in The Pavilion at Coushatta Casino Resort on Friday and Saturday, June 12-13, 2026. Admission for the general public is $10 per day; children ages 6 years and younger are admitted free of charge. Spectators may purchase tickets at the gate on the day of event. Coushatta Powwow Schedule of Events June 12-13, 2026 • The Pavilion at Coushatta Friday, June 12 Gourd Dance 5pm Grand Entry 7pm Saturday, June 13 Gourd Dance 10am Grand Entry 12 noon Gourd Dance 5pm Grand Entry 7pm The Coushatta Powwow is a Gathering of Tribes from Across the United States and Canada Coushatta’s annual powwow is one of the largest Native American gatherings in the southern United States, where world champion Native American dancers and singers gather to compete for prizes in a family-friendly alcohol-and-drug-free event. Hundreds of representatives from tribes across the United States and Canada come together each year to celebrate their culture with dance and drum contests. Handcrafted jewelry, beaded moccasins and colorful feathered regalia with intricate details adorn the dancers––each is handmade, and most are passed down as heirlooms through their family. Tribal drum groups compete and provide music and songs for the dance competitions. Exhibition dances and specialty dances showcase each age category during the event. A popular feature is the marketplace showcasing Native American food like Indian frybread and Indian tacos, plus authentic Native American arts and crafts, handmade turquoise and silver jewelry, handmade beaded items, the famous Coushatta long-leaf pine needle baskets, and so much more. For a unique cultural experience, the Coushatta powwow is one event you will never forget. Find more information online at www.coushattapowwow.com. ### ABOUT COUSHATTA CASINO RESORT Coushatta Casino Resort, Louisiana’s largest casino resort, is located in Kinder, Louisiana. It’s expansive gaming floor, the largest in the Lake Charles area, offers nearly 2,000 slot and table games, including live poker, bingo and sports betting. The property also features four hotels, the Dream Pool and Lazy River, world-class entertainment and the #1 rated golf course in Louisiana. Coushatta recently unveiled the all-new 204 room Legacy Tower, increasing its inventory to more than 1,000 rooms. Coushatta Casino Resort is owned and operated by the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana. For more information, call (800) 584-7263 or visit www.ccrla.com.

David Ogrin, PGA Tour Winner.Elite Coach.Proven Mentor WHY DAVID OGRIN GOLF ACADEMY ELITE COACHING.PROVEN DEVELOPMENT Led by PGA Tour winner David Ogrin, our team of expert coaches delivers personalized instruction and proven development systems for golfers of every level. Adult Lessons Whether you're new to golf or an experienced player, our team at the David Ogrin Golf Academy offers personalized coaching designed to help you achieve your golfing goals. From refining your swing mechanics to mastering course strategy, we provide comprehensive instruction tailored to your unique needs. Private Coaching Receive one-on-one instruction from our expert coaches, including David Ogrin himself. Sessions are customized to focus on the specific areas of your game that need improvement — whether it's driving, putting, or anything in between. Lesson Packages Commit to long-term improvement with a lesson package. Each session builds on the last, giving you a structured pathway to better golf at a pace that fits your schedule. Private Lessons Junior Lessons Our junior golf lessons are designed to introduce young golfers to the fundamentals of the game while fostering a love for golf that will last a lifetime. Through a series of structured, age-appropriate lessons, junior golfers will learn the basics of grip, stance, and swing mechanics, as well as course etiquette and rules of the game. All sessions are one-on-one with your assigned coach, tailored to your junior's current skill level and goals. Elite Junior Golf Development in San Antonio

Video of Grand Opening - Legacy Tower - Coushatta Casino Resort New luxury hotel tower adds 204 rooms, elevates the guest arrival experience and marks a major investment in the future of the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana Mike Ratchman with Aaron Lepinski, Director of Hospitality at Coushatta Casino Resort Coushatta Casino Resort, Louisiana’s largest casino resort, today celebrated the grand opening of Legacy Tower, a major expansion milestone that adds 204 guest rooms, including 100 luxury suites, and brings the resort’s total inventory to more than 1,000 rooms. The opening was marked with a grand opening ceremony hosted by the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, bringing together Tribal leadership, casino executives, development partners, elected officials and community members to commemorate one of the most significant expansions in the resort’s 30-year history. Mike Ratchman with Gordon Poncho, General Manager of Koasati Pines at Coushatta Casino Resort in Kinder LA The ceremony took place inside the newly constructed Legacy Tower lobby and featured a Tribal blessing, introduction of Tribal Princesses, leadership remarks, traditional tribal performances, partner recognition and a ribbon cutting with Tribal leadership and project partners. “Legacy Tower represents more than growth for Coushatta. It reflects our commitment to building something lasting for future generations while honoring the legacy of those who came before us,” said David Sickey, Chairman of the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana. “We are proud to continue welcoming others in a way that reflects our culture, values, and community.” Legacy Tower is designed to serve as a bold new front door for Coushatta Casino Resort. The hotel features a dramatic exterior, including a seven-story LED display, along with a redesigned arrival experience and a new connecting lobby that centralizes guest access across the property. Inside, the tower blends modern luxury with cultural storytelling. Design elements throughout the space draw inspiration from the Coushatta Tribe’s heritage, including patterns and textures influenced by traditional basketry. Mike Ratchman with Frenchy, New Orleans Artist “Legacy Tower represents an exciting new chapter for Coushatta,” said Nate Tanner, General Manager of Coushatta Casino Resort. “From the scale of the tower to the unified lobby and enhanced arrival experience, this expansion brings the resort together in a more seamless and elevated way. It reflects our continued investment in our guests, our team, the Tribe and the future of this region.” The expansion is part of Coushatta’s ongoing “Bigger, Better Coushatta” initiative, a multi-year investment focused on enhancing the guest experience while creating long-term economic impact. The project supports continued job creation and increased tourism across Southwest Louisiana and East Texas, reinforcing the resort’s role as a key economic driver in the region. The addition of Legacy Tower also strengthens Coushatta’s ability to attract regional and destination visitors, particularly from Texas, while expanding capacity for gaming, entertainment and resort experiences. Project partners recognized during the grand opening ceremony included TBE Architects, Yates Construction and The Wenaha Group. Legacy Tower officially is open for guest stays.

Direct Flights to The Tryall Golf and Beach Club in Jamaica - Book your Caribbean Vacation. New Stay and Play Golf Packages are available now for Summer. Escape to Jamaica This Summer at Tryall Club Just a short direct flight from Houston or Dallas, Jamaica’s iconic Tryall Club offers Texans an effortless Caribbean escape blending championship golf, private villa living and unforgettable island experiences. Located minutes from Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport – with VIP arrivals available through the IAM Jet Centre Montego Bay – Tryall Club is one of the Caribbean’s premier luxury destinations for golf getaways, family vacations, weddings and group retreats. Escape to Jamaica This Summer at Tryall Club The legendary 18-hole Tryall Club Golf Course has hosted international tournaments for decades and remains a favorite among players seeking ocean views, challenging play and warm Jamaican hospitality. Guests can also enjoy private instruction through the Golf Academy, curated golf group programming and custom tournaments for corporate and social groups. Accommodations include beautifully staffed private villas ideal for couples, families and multigenerational travel, while activities across the property range from tennis, pickleball and watersports to wellness experiences and beachside relaxation. Known for its spectacular settings and personalized service, Tryall Club is also a sought-after destination for weddings, celebrations, meetings and incentive travel. Beyond the resort experience, The Tryall Fund continues to support meaningful education and community initiatives throughout Hanover Parish, creating a deeper connection to Jamaica for guests and residents alike. Whether planning a golf getaway, family vacation or group retreat, Tryall Club delivers a timeless Caribbean experience with easy access from Texas all summer long. Get free nights when you book your summer vacation at The Tryall Club. Click the link here to view our summer packages - Packages & Offers | The Tryall Club, Jamaica.

Twenty years ago, the land that’s become Rockin’ J Ranch was pastureland and scrub brush and cactus and rocks. But Colonel Lee Roper had a vision for the property about four miles south of Blanco and put into action a plan that has worked like clockwork over the past two decades and made it one of the Texas Hill Country’s most desirable communities. The 96-year old Roper is the founder of Rinco, the parent company of Rockin’ J Ranch. He loved the land and was enamored by the prospect of a founding of a neighborhood based on old fashioned ideals and solid, core values. Roper, an Army veteran who moved to the Canyon Lake area from El Paso in 1980, was drawn to the area like most of us are – teased by the land’s verdant hills and rocky outcroppings, the wildflowers and the wildlife, the Hill Country’s far-ranging views and 300 days of sunshine. “We were told when we first came here that the Texas Hill Country has some of the most sought-after property in the United States,” Roper says. “The land that became Rockin’ J Ranch is 45 minutes from metropolitan areas like Austin and San Antonio, but we are light years away in tranquility.” Rockin’ J Ranch encompasses a unique livability that allows residents to get away from it all while sacrificing nothing as far as amenities and convenience. It is a fully gated community whose original ranch presence was preserved by incorporating some of the 150-year old homes and landmarks into the community’s clubhouse and the design of its golf course. The community was laid out on a wide series of hills and plateaus amongst rolling fields of flowers and stands of oak and cedar trees. One of the unique features of Rockin’ J Ranch is its use of a centralized water and sewer system rather than the well water and septic fields employed in the majority of other Hill Country developments. There’s no doubt that Roper and his team have hit the right notes at Rockin’ J Ranch since its founding in 2005 — less than 10 percent of the original 1,800 homesites in the 1,064-acre community are available, and there's no sales slowdown in sight. You can still buy land at Rockin’ J Ranch on a handshake agreement; if you put half down, you can take up to three years to pay off that parcel with zero interest. And there’s no deadline on building a home on your property here because Rinco of Texas, Inc. — which also developed 23 other communities around the region — is in the land business and is not a home builder. “We have enjoyed a continued level of success and a constant desirability over the past 20 years, and it’s something we carry a lot of pride about,” said Ryan Brubaker, the long-time sales manager at Rockin J’ Ranch. “People who were first here and drawn to the land have become our biggest advocates in the years since — word of mouth carries a lot of weight.” One of Rockin’ J Ranch’s primo amenities is Vaaler Creek Golf Club, the centerpiece of the community and one of the top-ranked public golf courses in the Austin-San Antonio corridor. All real estate sales include basic membership to the golf club. The course was the first signature design by Michael Lowry, who fashioned a much-tougher-than-its-carded 6,874-yard, par-72 track among live oak and cactus. Lowry routed the layout along the rolling, scrub brush-filled hollows; throughout the round a golfer will play through many cool features such as ponds, past rock outcroppings and sand hazards of various sizes and be challenged by elevated tee shots and wavy, tree-lined fairways. Both nines at Vaaler Creek GC offer far-reaching views of the surrounding region. The generous homesite setbacks mean that the residences near the course are mostly out of sight and unobtrusive, adding to the course’s isolated feel.

Often mentioned in the same breath as the Masters, US Open and other prestigious tournaments, the 2026 Charles Schwab Challenge marks the 80th anniversary of the longest running PGA Tour event at the same location. And what a location – the Colonial Country Club! The story of Colonial and its annual tournament dates back to 1946, when Ben Hogan won his first of five titles in an invitational field of only 28 players. That field was star studded with major champions Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Lloyd Mangrum, Jimmy Demaret, Herman Kaiser and Cary Middlecoff competing. Hogan would win again the next year (1947) and also in 1952-53, four of the first seven tournaments! Nicknamed “The Hawk” because of his intense competitive nature and singular focus, Hogan won his final title in 1959 via an 18-hole playoff on Monday over Fred Hawkins. Snead won in 1950 and it was noteworthy as the first year for live television coverage and the debut of the five-foot tall Leonard Trophy, named in honor of the club’s founder, Fort Worth businessman Marvin Leonard. The story of Leonard and his founding of Colonial is a testimony of a man smitten with the game of golf while possessing an acumen for business and visionary foresight. He procured 156 acres along a bend in the Trinity River in 1934. The property was a farm that featured oaks and pecan trees, bordered on the south by the Forest Park subdivision and Texas Christian University. At that time, Leonard played his golf locally at Glen Gardens where he befriended Hogan, a young caddie there, as was Nelson. Leonard also played at Rivercrest Country Club and became a good golfer whose travels to the great courses in the Northeast and California allowed him to gain an appreciation for bent grass greens. Not prevalent in Texas because of the harsh summer heat, Leonard insisted on installing them at Colonial. The building of the course showed Leonard’s wisdom when he engaged the services of a trio of course architects who were talented, prolific and later widely praised. Leonard used a triumvirate of John Bredemus, his associate Ralph Plummer, both from Texas, and Perry Maxwell of Oklahoma. Maxwell was winning rave reviews for his work at Southern Hills, taking shape simultaneously to Colonial. Pleased with the finished product, Leonard opened Colonial for interested parties, charging only a $50 fee for future charges of the member. Among those in line to join that first week was a couple – Ben and Valerie Hogan. A few years later, Leonard lobbied the USGA to play its 1941 US Open at Colonial. The 1941 US Open was the first ever played in the south and won by Craig Wood. Then, just five years later, the first Colonial National Invitational was played on a course that stands the test of time, testing today the skills of the best golfers on the planet. Colonial is a masterpiece that continues its vitality in the modern game because of improvements through the years, especially a major restoration project just three years ago. Gil Hanse and his associate, Jim Wagner, designed the recent changes that have met universal approval by Colonial members and the players at the Charles Schwab Challenge. The 2026 event will mark the third time playing on the restored course. Colonial’s quality conditions and its tendency to sort out the best as winners is a common thread through its 80-year history. An illustrious list of winners are enshrined on the Wall of Champions at the first tee. Those names include Hogan, Snead, Jack Nicklaus (1982), Arnold Palmer (1962), Billy Casper (1964), Lee Trevino (1976 and 1978), Tom Watson (1998), Bruce Lietzke (1980 and 1992) and Ben Crenshaw (1977 and 1990). A second tier of names, if you will, include multiple times winners Julius Boros (1960 and 1963), Corey Pavin (1985 and 1996), Phil Mickelson (2000 and 2008), Kenny Perry (2003 and 2005) and Zach Johnson (2010 and 2012). And not to be left out are colorful golfing greats Tommy “Thunder” Bolt (1958), Tom “Towering Inferno” Weiskopf (1973), and Gene “The Machine” Littler (1971)! One other notable winner, twice, was Al Geiberger, known for shooting the first 59 on the PGA Tour and his love of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. The tall and lean Californian won the second ever Tournament Players Championship in the August heat of 1975 and then won a Colonial invitational in 1979 at age 41 by a stroke over Littler and Texan Don January, ages 48 and 49. In 2019, the Colonial tournament began a relationship with Charles Schwab that has been a perfect fit. The event has always revered tradition with the Wall of Champions and a Tartan sports jacket to the winners, but Charles Schwab added to it with a classic automobile given to the winner. Each year the prized car is displayed near the 10th tee and serves as a perfect photo op for those attending the tournament. Through its association with Schwab, the Colonia tournament has benefitted many charities in the Fort Worth and North Texas areas. Last year more than $2 million was donated from the tournament. When Jordan Spieth (2016) won the Colonia tournament, it highlighted how hospitable the event has been to Texas golfers. Starting with Hogan, other Texas winners have been Homero Blancas in 1970 followed by Trevino, Crenshaw andLietzke. Lietzke, who passed away in 2018 at age 67, once said, “the greatest thing about the Colonial tournament is the golf course.” Now 88, Blancas, known as Mr. 55 for the ridiculously low score he once posted in winning an East Texas amateur event while a University of Houston golfer, explained the timelessness of the Colonial course. “It is good to remember that in 1970 when I won, Colonial was already over 7,000 yards long as a par 70,” Blancas said. “That made par a very good score.” Still erudite in discussing competitive golf, Blancas said the course remains challenging because it requires accuracy off the tee. He cited his strategy through the well known “Horrible Horseshoe,” comprising holes 3, 4 and 5. “I couldn’t carry the bunkers on the left on number 3 so that left me a 3 or 4-iron into the green and then on number 4 I would hit something to land about 15 or 20 yards short of the green and let it run up,” Blancas said. “On number 5, I would tee the ball down quite a bit, play it on the heel of the driver, and then just hit it down the left side away from the river. It wasn’t going to hook and I could reach the green even if in the left rough.” Spoken like a true former champion and echoing the sentiments of Hogan, whose five wins gave Colonial its nickname “Hogan’s Alley.” “A straight ball will get you into more trouble at Colonial than any course I know, “Hogan once said. Other Texas legends weighed in with similar observations. In the era of Bredemus, Plummer and Maxwell was the father of golf instruction in Texas, Harvey Penick of Austin. “I respect the Colonial tournament as in the class with the US Open and the Masters because it tests a golfer’s ability as well as any tournament.” And finally, capturing the spirit of the tournament, was Crenshaw. “I know this. Whenever I step onto the course, I sense his (Hogan’s) presence.” And you can feel his presence, too, when defending champion Ben Griffin and the 2026 field tees off May 28th. A multitude of ticket plans are available via the website www.charlesschwabchallenge.com

Texas Golf Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2026 The Texas Golf Hall of Fame is proud to announce its Class of 2026. This distinguished group of inductees will be honored during the formal induction ceremony on Sunday, October 19, 2026, at San Antonio Country Club, presented by Huntington Bank. This year’s class represents an exceptional collection of individuals and a historic course whose impact has shaped the legacy and future of golf in Texas. 2026 Texas Golf Hall of Fame Inductees: • Professional Player: Stacy Lewis • Amateur: Colt Knost • Golf Professional / Teacher: Dale Morgan, PGA • Professional Service: Mark Harrison • Lifetime Achievement: Dave Pelz (Posthumously) • Historic Course: River Oaks Country Club (Houston) Each inductee will be commemorated with a granite marker on the Texas Golf Walk of Fame at Brackenridge Park Golf Course in San Antonio, as well as at the Hall of Fame’s anchor sites at The Ronny Golf Park at PGA Frisco and Memorial Park Golf Course in Houston. “This class represents the very best of Texas golf across generations,” said Chairman Mike Booker. “From global champions to transformative leaders and historic venues, each honoree has left a lasting imprint on the game. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and the legacy they continue to build.” Alli Jarrett, Executive Director of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame, added, “The Class of 2026 reflects excellence not only in playing performance, but in leadership, innovation, and service. These inductees have elevated the game in meaningful and lasting ways, and we look forward to honoring their stories and contributions.” The Class of 2026 Digital Museum exhibits are being made possible through a generous grant from the Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation, ensuring these legacies are preserved and shared for future generations. About the Inductees Professional Player – Stacy Lewis Stacy Lewis, raised in The Woodlands, Texas, is one of the most accomplished American golfers of her generation. After overcoming significant health challenges early in life, Lewis became the 2007 NCAA Individual National Champion at the University of Arkansas before launching a remarkable professional career. Over the course of her career, she amassed 13 LPGA victories, including two major championships, more than 100 top 10 finishes, and reached World No. 1 while earning multiple Player of the Year honors. Lewis represented Team USA in four Solheim Cups as a player and later served as Assistant Captain in 2021 and Captain in 2023 and 2024. She also represented the United States at the 2016 Rio Olympics, finishing T4. Through resilience, determination, and competitive excellence, Lewis secured her place as one of the most accomplished players in LPGA history. (photo credit LPGA) Amateur – Colt Knost Colt Knost, a Dallas native, stands among the most accomplished amateur golfers of his era. In 2007, he achieved a rare double by winning both the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Public Links Championships, while also earning the McCormick Medal as the world’s top-ranked amateur and representing the United States on the victorious Walker Cup team. A standout collegiate player at SMU with seven wins, Knost has remained a prominent voice in the game as a CBS Sports broadcaster, continuing to influence golf well beyond his competitive career. (photo credit USGA) Golf Professional / Teacher – Dale Morgan, PGA Dale Morgan, PGA, has dedicated more than four decades to advancing the game through leadership, mentorship, and excellence in club operations. Best known for his nearly 30-year tenure at Austin Country Club, Morgan upheld and extended one of Texas’s most storied golf traditions while shaping the careers of countless golf professionals and players. A respected leader within the game, Morgan served as President of the Southern Texas PGA and currently serves on the PGA of America Board of Directors. His influence is defined by his commitment to mentorship, professionalism, and the enduring values of the game. (photo credit STPGA) Professional Service – Mark Harrison Mark Harrison has been a transformative leader in Texas golf through nearly three decades with the Northern Texas PGA, becoming the organization’s third Executive Director in 2011 and its first CEO in 2016. Harrison played a central role in the creation of PGA Frisco, developing the vision and business plan behind the landmark partnership between the PGA of America, the City of Frisco, and TRT Holdings. Under his leadership, the NTPGA has grown into one of the most influential PGA Sections in the country, while his impact on junior golf, philanthropy, and growing the game continues to shape golf across Texas and beyond. (photo credit NTPGA) Lifetime Achievement – Dave Pelz (Posthumously) Dave Pelz’s legacy is defined by innovation, intellect, and a lifelong passion for understanding the game. A former NASA scientist turned golf pioneer, Pelz revolutionized short-game instruction through research, teaching, and technology, influencing generations of players, from amateurs to major champions. Pelz was among the first to scientifically study golf performance and identify the short game as the primary factor in scoring success. His research revealed that nearly 80% of shots lost to par occur within 100 yards of the hole. This groundbreaking insight became the foundation for his teachings, shifting the focus of golf instruction toward more wedge play and putting. Founder of the renowned Scoring Game School and author of multiple best-selling books, his work made golf more accessible, measurable, and enjoyable for millions worldwide. (photo credit Pelz family) Historic Course – River Oaks Country Club (Houston) Established in 1923, River Oaks Country Club is one of the most storied golf courses in Texas. Originally designed by Donald Ross and later renovated by Tom Fazio, the course blends classic architecture with modern championship standards. River Oaks has hosted premier amateur and professional events and has long been associated with some of the game’s greatest figures, including Ben Hogan, Byron Nelson, and Babe Zaharias. The club also played an important role in the legacies of the Burke and Harmon families, whose influence on the game helped shape generations of champions and teachers. With a century-long tradition of excellence in competition, instruction, and stewardship of the game, River Oaks continues to hold a significant place in Texas golf history. (photo credit River Oaks CC) The induction ceremony is open to the public, and tickets and partnership opportunities are available. htt ps://www.texasgolfhof.org/2026-gathering-of-eagles-celebration The Texas Golf Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to honoring the past, celebrating the present and inspiring future generations of Texas golfers. Contact:Alli Jarrettalli@texasgolfhof.org713-382-8723

Coushatta Casino Resort Debuts Legacy Tower in Grand Opening Event May 15 Major expansion milestone event to feature tribal ceremony, ribbon cutting, and first-look tours of the new luxury hotel tower. Coushatta Casino Resort, Louisiana’s largest casino resort, will officially celebrate the grand opening of its new Legacy Tower with a ceremony on Friday, May 15 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., marking one of the most significant expansions in the resort’s 30-year history. Hosted by the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, the event will bring together Tribal leadership, casino executives, development partners and regional officials to commemorate the opening of the new Legacy Tower, which adds 204 guest rooms, including 100 luxury suites, and brings the resort’s total inventory to more than 1,000 rooms. The ceremony will take place inside the newly constructed lobby and will incorporate elements that reflect the Tribe’s culture, leadership and long-term vision for growth. “This grand opening is a defining moment for Coushatta,” said Nate Tanner, General Manager of Coushatta Casino Resort. “Legacy Tower makes an immediate impression, from the scale of the tower itself to the unified lobby and arrival experience that brings the resort together in a new way. We are delivering a next-level experience for our guests while continuing to invest in our community, the Tribe and the future of this region.” Grand Opening Ceremony Details The grand opening ceremony will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Coushatta Casino Resort, 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder, Louisiana, inside the new Legacy Tower lobby, featuring Tribal leadership, resort executives and project partners. Legacy Tower Design Legacy Tower is designed to serve as a bold new front door for the resort. The hotel structure features a dramatic exterior, including a seven-story LED display, along with a redesigned arrival experience and a new connecting lobby that centralizes guest access across the property. Inside, the tower blends modern luxury with cultural storytelling. Design elements throughout the space draw inspiration from the Coushatta Tribe’s heritage, including patterns and textures influenced by traditional basketry. Driving Growth for the Region The expansion is part of Coushatta’s ongoing “Bigger, Better Coushatta” initiative, a multi-year investment focused on enhancing the guest experience while creating long-term economic impact. The project supports continued job creation and increased tourism across Southwest Louisiana and East Texas, reinforcing the resort’s role as a key economic driver in the region. Additionally, the addition of Legacy Tower strengthens Coushatta’s ability to attract regional and destination visitors, particularly from Texas, while expanding capacity for gaming, entertainment and resort experiences. The grand opening celebration will continue Saturday, May 16, with the $300,000 Legacy & Luxury Giveaway, offering guests the chance to win cars and cash prizes totaling more than a quarter of a million dollars. Legacy Tower officially opens for guest stays on May 18, 2026. ABOUT COUSHATTA CASINO RESORTCoushatta Casino Resort, located in Kinder, Louisiana, off Highway 165 (I-10, Exit 44), features three hotels and thousands of slot machines and table games, including live poker, live bingo, off-track betting, and a sportsbook. Call (800) 584-7263 for more information.

Sanisafe Products, based in San Antonio, Texas, stands as a notable innovator in custom plastic and acrylic fabrication for custom merchandising products from inception of an idea to the completion of a project. Their mission revolves around creating valuable solutions for diverse industries, a capability that extends seamlessly to golf courses. While not exclusively a golf-centric company, Sanisafe’s core strength in durable, custom plastic manufacturing makes them a valuable partner for golf facilities. A popular product for the golf industry is their driving range dividers. These aren’t just simple barriers; it is great way to enhance your driving range and promote your golf course, events, tournaments and restaurant by printing your unique message for your golf club on the dividers. The dividers are engineered to enhance safety, improve organization, and provide individual space at hitting bays. Made from robust, easy-to-clean plastics, they help prevent errant shots and delineate areas effectively, creating a safer and more focused practice environment. Beyond dividers, Sanisafe’s custom fabrication expertise allows for a myriad of other golf course products from custom signage, storage solutions for range balls, towels or equipment, sanitation stations, display cases for pro shops showcasing merchandise and many other custom designed solutions. Their ability to turn specific needs into tangible, high-quality plastic products positions Sanisafe as a unique asset for golf course managers seeking to optimize their facilities with a customized solution. For more information, call (800) 543-1680 or email info@sanisafeusa.com. Visit their website at www.sanisafeproducts.com.

There has always been an appeal to the area on the Comal River that became first Gruene and later New Braunfels. Cool water to mitigate the Texas heat and irrigate crops — and later golf courses — has an enduring draw, and that’s even more in evidence today. For the past 10 years, golfers have been especially enticed to New Braunfels and the uber-playable Landa Park Golf Course at Comal Springs on the banks of the river. The resurgence of golf in the area was spurred by the comprehensive renovation of the city’s municipal course and was later amplified by the restrictions of the COVID-19 epidemic. Ten years after comprehensive renovation, New Braunfels facility continues to set records for play as it wows golfers! In the five years since the shutdown, the level of excellence at Landa Park Golf Course was stoked by city leaders and Landa Park Golf Course’s staff who grasped the need for top-drawer customer service and unwavering golf course conditions. In October, Landa Park celebrated 10 years since its reopening — its rebirth, as it were — and there is plenty to be excited about. “We take great pride in the continued level of success we enjoy at Landa Park Golf Course,” said Quintin Alexander, the facility’s golf manager. “The City had the foresight to invest in the renovation of the course some 10 years ago and has done all it can to make sure we have all we need to provide the best golf experience for our players.” “We take great ownership in what we do here and consider the popularity of Landa Park Golf Course a labor of love for all of us.” The course at Landa Park originally opened as a nine-hole facility in 1938 with a second nine designed by architects Dave Bennett and Leon Howard added in 1969. That configuration was in place for more than 45 years and was worse for the wear before a renovation and full master plan for the site was fashioned by the noted Houston based golf architecture firm Finger Dye Spann and the $7 million project was bankrolled by the City. Houston-based contractor Heritage Links instituted the architects’ plan, which rerouted some of the holes, built new tees and putting surfaces, recontoured the fairways, added bunkers, improved or replaced cart paths, and installed a new irrigation system. The design also employed the judicious use of native grasses in “out of play” areas as a nod to ecology and the sensitivity of the course in proximity to the river. There are a handful of bio swell areas that act to clean the waters that can run off the course before they end up in the Comal. Landa Park Golf Course was reopened in October 2014 and has been on consistent footing ever since, first under the watchful eye of Chad Donegan and, since 2022, with Alexander at the helm. One of the often taken-for-granted constants at Landa Park Golf Course is the track’s peerless conditioning. From tee to green the playing surfaces are manicured where required, left native when desired and reflect the best of golf at a course on the edge of the Texas Hill Country. For that, golfers can thank superintendent Brody Dillard and his crew, who hit the ground running at 4 a.m. each morning and are busy throughout the course an hour later. “There’s not a morning I get here when there’s not someone working on virtually every hole,” Alexander explained. “It’s not something that players really think about, but the work that crew does day in and day out directly relates to their golf experience.” There are spots here where golfers can watch tubers riding the rapids; on the back nine, you’ll hear a lot of whooping and hollering at nearby Schlitterbahn. Part of the experience at Landa Park Golf Course is the fauna (ducks, egrets, and more) and all of the deer grazing in the rough and lying in the shade. Although greens “Our staff has done a consistent job fee were increased of keeping the course in great condition last June for the first time since 2018 despite challenges of the weather and it still costs less than $60 to play Landa Park Golf Course, even with a cart. And there are discounts for seniors, juniors and military members and veterans and also twilight rates. In 2025, with the game of golf riding an all-time high in popularity, Landa Park Golf Course is a vibrant and pertinent course that’s both an asset to the New Braunfels golf community and the City as a whole. If you’ve played Landa Park Golf Course, you know. If you haven’t, what are you waiting for? the day-to-day wear and tear any course endures from the amount of play we have.” Landa Park Golf Course has a unique routing near the banks of the Comal River, playing at 6,205 yards from its back tees and to a par of 71. The course will not beat up golfers who are just learning the game, but there’s more than enough length and challenge to keep even the best players’ attention. “Our staff has done a consistent job of keeping the course in great condition despite challenges of the weather and the day-to-day wear and tear any course endures from the amount of play we have.” Landa Park Golf Course has a unique routing near the banks of the Comal River, playing at 6,205 yards from its back tees and to a par of 71. The course will not beat up golfers who are just learning the game, but there’s more than enough length and challenge to keep even the best players’ attention. There are spots here where golfers can watch tubers riding the rapids; on the back nine, you’ll hear a lot of whooping and hollering at nearby Schlitterbahn. Part of the experience at Landa Park Golf Course is the fauna (ducks, egrets, and more) and all of the deer grazing in the rough and lying in the shade. Although greens fee were increased last June for the first time since 2018 it still costs less than $60 to play Landa Park Golf Course, even with a cart. And there are discounts for seniors, juniors and military members and veterans and also twilight rates. In 2025, with the game of golf riding an all-time high in popularity, Landa Park Golf Course is a vibrant and pertinent course that’s both an asset to the New Braunfels golf community and the City as a whole.\ If you’ve played Landa Park Golf Course, you know. If you haven’t, what are you waiting for? By Steve Habel, Contributing Writer

Texas City's Bayou Golf Course Texas City's Bayou Golf Course - Offers Fun, Playability, Great Course Conditions and History. If your goal is to find a great public golf course and play as often as you can, we suggest Bayou Golf Course here in northern Galveston County, which more than fits the bill as a facility where fun, playability, course conditions and history combine to produce a memorable round of golf. Owned by the city of Texas City, Bayou Golf Course’s routing was originally designed by legendary Texas golf architect Joe Finger and opened in 1974. Finger fashioned a mix of holes at the hybrid links/parkland-style facility that were raised from about 200 acres of marshland along Moses Bayou as it flows its toward Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Bayou Golf Course is the facility where Butch Harmon, one of the game’s most noted and in-demand instructors, got his first job in the golf business. “There are people who want to play this course just because Butch used to teach here,” said Mike Skiba, Bayou Golf Course’s head professional and director of golf. “I’m no Butch Harmon, but if you want to improve your golf game, I can get you on the right track.” The course has been a Gulf Coast staple for more than 50 years. In the five decades that have passed there have been plenty of changes and improvements, all centered on improving the experience for players. In 2014, Houston-based golf course architect Mike Nuzzo restored and enhanced the course, accentuating the track address drainage issues and to bring water into play on 12 of the holes. Subsequent improvements and tweaks have been undertaken as needed; the latest was a resurfacing of the course’s cart paths and a total bunker revitalization. Bayou Golf Course plays at 6,596 windswept yards from the back tees and to a par of 72. It checks a lot of boxes for most golfers with challenging greens complexes and demanding putting surfaces that ask for the best from players’ short game. From the back tees four of the par 4s are carded at over 400 yards and three of the par 5s play at more than 500 yards. Add in the wind, which is always blowing here, and those seven holes alone clearly indicate the need for prowess with the driver. There are also 18 sand bunkers strategically situated throughout the routing to form a formidable combination with the course’s slightly elevated tees and greens. “As everyone who plays here regularly can tell you, we can put the hole location in places where precise approach shots are the only way they can be attacked and play close to par,” Skiba said. “We can clamp down this golf course to make it more difficult, but the layout and the winds usually make that unnecessary.” After two relatively easy holes to start the round, the 414-yard par 4 third is a real test, playing into the prevailing wind with water along the left on the approach and trees on the right near the preferred landing area. More water awaits behind the smallish and undulating putting surface at the back left. It’s one of the toughest pars on the Gulf Coast. The 414-yard par 4 sixth is all about strategy, with a tee shot that’s played short of the bayou that begins at 225 yards out and then asks for an approach to another wind-affected, tiny green. The 481-yard par-5 10th is one of the most “gettable” holes on the course because of its risk/reward options. There is a lake in play off the tee and on the approach as well as out of bounds on the left, but birdie or better is within reach with two, or three, well-executed shots. Bayou Golf Club is renowned for its four-hole closing stretch. The 573-yard par 5 15th is the longest hole here and has a double dogleg. Next up is the deadly and long 191-yard par 3 16th, which always seems to need one more club than you think to reach the putting surface. The 457-yard 17th is the longest two-shotter on the course. It’s a dogleg-left with a stout carry across the turn to the fairway with trees guarding the left side. Most of the Bayou Golf Course’s regular players consider a par here to be like a birdie, especially on those days when the wind comes in from the north. The round wraps up with a 393-yard par 4 that teases water along the left side and a deep bunker that guards the tournament hole placement at the back-left. It’s well-thought of as one of the best finishing holes in the Bay Area. The sense of community and fellowship one gets from playing golf is on ready display at the Bayou Golf Course. There’s nothing better than a great golf course that can be played at an affordable price and that’s what you get here. “We’ve made this course a haven of sorts for golfers who want to have fun, be treated like family and enjoy a consistent level of great golf for under $40,” said Skiba, who been at Bayou GC for nine years. “If you come play our course we think you will want to play it again and again. That’s the best complement a golfer can give a course.” The facility also offers the community a five-and-a-half acre walking family pitch-and-putt course with holes that play from 60 to 90 yards. It’s a place where you can find both the skilled golfer looking to hone his or her skills around the greens (and who isn’t) as well as beginners just learning about how great golf can be. Bayou Golf Course is the home to the area’s First Tee program.