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Kevin Komer, CGCS Kevin Komer, CGCS, earns Excellence in Government Affairs Award from GCSAA Many years of exemplary advocacy on behalf of golf course superintendents recognized Kevin Komer, CGCS, director of agronomy at The Mountain Course at Spruce Peak and Stowe (Vt.) Country Club,   has earned the 2026 Excellence in Government Affairs Award from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) for his distinguished legacy of state advocacy work in Vermont. The Excellence in Government Affairs Award recognizes a chapter, superintendent or coalition for outstanding advocacy or compliance efforts in government affairs. Komer, a 34-year GCSAA member, will be formally honored at the 2026 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in Orlando.“GCSAA congratulates Kevin on his extensive advocacy efforts that undoubtedly enhance and sustain the game of golf in the state of Vermont,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “We applaud his focus on environmental stewardship on the golf course and for telling his superintendent story that highlights the positive aspects of an often-misunderstood game and industry.” On numerous occasions, Komer has provided excellent testimony representing pesticide applicators in the golf industry, specifically on the importance of insecticides, which had come under criticism by some in the state in recent years. In 2024, Vermont house bill 706 sought to ban the use of neonicotinoid products from use in the state, and although it passed, thanks in part to the case made by Komer emphasizing use of best management practices, turf applications were allowed to continue. Neonics have proven to be a safe and effective tool for the control of white grubs and other turf damaging insects. “When it comes to advocacy and communicating with legislators, you either have a seat at the table or you are on the menu. We must show up at the table – someone must do it, and there’s no reason it can’t be you,” said Kevin Komer, CGCS. “Superintendents must speak up when restrictive legislation is introduced. Putting a face with an industry is so important to foster and create relationships in government.” Komer has made environmental stewardship a top priority at his club, demonstrating his commitment to protecting the essential resources that sustain Vermont’s golf industry. He emphasizes advocacy and science-based decision-making to create exceptional course conditions while prioritizing environmental protection. Komer maintains acres of pollinator friendly land within the courses he oversees. “I am honored to be recognized by my peers for my advocacy efforts over the past decade. I strongly believe that golf course superintendents are stewards of the environment and are high-quality land managers,” Komer said. “It is because of my strong belief that being a golf course superintendent is a noble profession that I have been motivated to fight the good fight for the golf industry in the state of Vermont and to protect our industry from regulation that would restrict our abilities to succeed.” Komer has served as a GCSAA Grassroots Ambassador since January 2015. He is a member and past president of the Vermont Golf Course Superintendents Association. Komer also served on the New England BMPs Steering Committee to develop the state’s BMP guidelines. To learn more about the Excellence in Government Affairs Award, visit www.gcsaa.org/awards .   About GCSAA The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to 20,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and improve communities through enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter . Visit our industry-leading magazine at GCMonline.com .   The GCSAA Foundation is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to secure funding and support to strengthen advocacy, education, and research that advances the work of golf course management professionals. Visit the Foundation at www.gcsaa.org/foundation

Top row left to right: David Price, PGA, Cary Collins, PGA son of Ross Collins, PGA, Fin Ewing III, Ronny Glanton, PGA. Bottom row left to right: Jerry J. Ransom, Joe Black, PGA, Dr. Bill Blair, Randy Smith, PGA The Northern Texas PGA honored its inaugural Byron Nelson Foundation | Northern Texas PGA Hall of Fame members during a luncheon ceremony held today at the Home of the PGA of America in Frisco.   Following the luncheon, attendees were welcomed to the Jerry J. Ransom Northern Texas PGA Golf House, where the names of the 2025 inductees were officially unveiled on the Byron Nelson Foundation | Northern Texas PGA Hall of Fame display.   The inaugural class of 2025 included PGA Members Joe Black, Ross Collins, Ronny Glanton, David Price and Randy Smith, as well as non-Members/Ambassadors Dr. Bill Blair, Fin Ewing III and Jerry J. Ransom.   “This means a lot,” said Dr. Blair after the ceremony. “Particularly coming from the Northern Texas Section, an organization that I have a lot of respect and admiration for. The induction ceremony was a great event, and a wonderful event to be a part of.”   The Byron Nelson Foundation | Northern Texas PGA Hall of Fame was created to honor those in our community who embody the simple but powerful belief that Byron Nelson himself lived by every day: “Be good to the game and give back.”   Those we celebrated today are more than great golf professionals or leaders. They are people who have devoted themselves to lifting others, to growing the game, and to leaving a legacy that will be felt for generations.   Each inductee has distinguished themselves in four meaningful ways:   ·     Leadership and service ·     Achievements and awards ·     Support of the NTPGA Foundation and its growth-of-the-game initiatives ·     The lasting impact they have made on those around them   “What a special day to be a part of,” said Jake McCullough, honorary NTPGA President and chair of the Hall of Fame selection committee. “It has been an honor to help launch the hall of fame this year, and these eight men are very deserving of the honor they have received. The members of the Class of 2025 are game-changers who embody Mr. Nelson’s words of ‘be good to the game and give back.’”   To be considered, nominees must be at least 50 years old, have made their mark over at least a decade within the Section, and, if a PGA Professional, they must be a Member in good standing. New members will be welcomed every other year.   Learn more about each of the inductees on our website   www.ntpga.com/hall-of-fame .

“GOLF CHANNEL GAMES” – FEATURING RORY MCILROY AND SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER – LIVE PRIMETIME COMPETITION WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, ON GOLF CHANNEL AND USA NETWORK Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler to Compete Head-to-Head and Captain Two Four-Man Teams in Rapid-Fire Golf Competition   Never-Before-Seen Format Will Feature Timed Drive Chip & Putt, 14-Club Challenge, Timed Shootout, and Captains’ Challenge   Hosted at Trump National Golf Club Jupiter in Jupiter, Fla., Live in Primetime Under the Lights on Golf Channel and USA Network   Emmy-Award Winners Mark Loomis (Producer) and Jeff Jastrow (Director) Will Produce Coverage of the Golf Channel Games   Rory McIlroy  and Scottie Scheffler  will compete head-to-head and captain two teams of world-class players at the “ Golf Channel Games ,” a new, rapid-fire golf competition live in primetime on Golf Channel and USA Network on Wednesday, December 17, at Trump National Golf Club Jupiter, in Jupiter, Fla.   McIlroy and Scheffler will lead two four-man teams at the Golf Channel Games in the following timed and strategy-focused challenges under the pressure of the clock and the primetime lights:   ·         Timed Drive, Chip, & Putt – Players compete solo in the three precision-based disciplines – drive a total number of yards, chip within a certain proximity to the pin, and hole a certain number of feet of putts – as quickly as possible.    ·         14-Club Challenge – Two Players, One Bag – One player from each team will square off in the 14-Club Challenge, drawing a club from a single bag (including driver and putter) in a closest-to-the-pin competition from a designated distance in the fairway. All 14 clubs, seven shots per player – and once a club is used, it’s out. All eight players will participate – four total matchups.    ·         Timed Shootout – A four-player alternate shot on three holes with teammates staged on the tee (1), in the fairway (1), and around the green (2). Finish with the best score in the shortest amount of time...the clock is running!    ·         Captains’ Challenge – Rory vs. Scottie – Each player hits from predetermined locations. Shots will include a 100-yard wedge, 50-yard pitch, bunker shot, greenside shot, 50-ft putt, and 10-ft putt. The lowest total distance from the hole for the combined shots wins.   “Our goal at VERSANT is to drive innovation from the strengths of our businesses,” said  Tom Knapp , EVP Golf & General Manager, Golf Channel. “With that in mind, we wanted to create a new golf event that was highly competitive, showcasing the best players in the world hitting specific shots and plotting strategy with a running clock. To have the opportunity to create an annual, end-of-season golf event which includes Rory & Scottie at one of South Florida’s premier golf clubs, has been a treat. It should be fun.”   “The Golf Channel Games bring a fresh approach to golf, inspired by events like the NFL Combine and All-Star Games from top professional leagues,” said McIlroy. “They give players the chance to showcase their skills across unique challenges and offer fans a new way to enjoy the game in the postseason. I am looking forward to competing in this new, fun format.”   “The Golf Channel Games will be a great mix of skill, strategy, and pressure,” said Scheffler. “This will be a brand new way for the players and the fans to experience the game of golf. Everyone knows how competitive we are and I think the Golf Channel Games will be an innovative competition that will engage the viewers. I’m excited to be a part of this.”    Additional details regarding the Golf Channel Games – including the six remaining players slated to compete alongside McIlroy and Scheffler – will be announced in the coming weeks.   Emmy-award winners Mark Loomis  (producer) and Jeff Jastrow  (director) will lead Golf Channel’s production of the Golf Channel Games, which were created in partnership with EverWonder Studio and producer Bryan Zuriff . The Golf Channel Games are being launched in association with PGA TOUR Studios.   About Golf Channel   Golf Channel – the first-ever single-sport cable network which was founded in 1995 – delivers comprehensive live golf tournament, studio and shoulder programming. Golf Channel features more live coverage of the sport than all other U.S. television networks combined , including events across the PGA TOUR, LPGA Tour, USGA, R&A, DP World Tour, NCAA, and the Olympics, as well as news coverage via live morning programming and tentpole studio shows including Golf Today , Golf Central  and the network’s critically-acclaimed Live From  on-site pre- and post-round show at high-profile golf events.   About VERSANT   VERSANT, Comcast Corporation’s (NASDAQ: CMCSA) planned spin-off, will be a leading independent publicly traded media company comprised of most of NBCUniversal’s cable television networks, including USA Network, CNBC, MSNBC, Oxygen, E!, SYFY and Golf Channel along with complementary digital assets Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow, GolfPass, and SportsEngine. The well-capitalized company will have significant scale as a pure-play set of assets anchored by leading news, sports and entertainment content. The spin-off is expected to be completed during 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions.   About Trump Golf   Trump Golf is home to a collection of the world’s most iconic golf destinations, with several consistently ranked among the “Top 100” globally. Renowned for hosting prestigious professional tournaments, Trump Golf boasts championship courses designed by leading architects, state-of-the-art practice facilities and world-class amenities. Beyond the course, members and guests enjoy exclusive experiences, from fine dining and spa services to curated social and family events. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Trump Golf continues to set the standard for luxury golf worldwide.

Scott Schreiner Golf Course At Scott Schreiner Golf Course , every round is a Hill Country escape over 100 years in the making. From our 1920s roots to our exciting 2025 renovations , we’ve paired championship design with small-town Texas charm. Refreshed greens, improved play, and views that take your breath away — every hole delivers. Whether you’re chasing your best score or soaking in the scenery, Scott Schreiner is an unforgettable experience that keeps getting better with age. Redesigned in 2025, Scott Schreiner Golf Course is a scenic Par 70 layout that combines Hill Country beauty with a rewarding golf experience. The course upgrades include fully rebuilt greens, revitalized sand bunkers, improved cart paths and bridges, building and restroom refurbishments, and a new self-contained Green Flush restroom for the back nine holes. Designed for every level of play, Scott Schreiner Golf Course offers approachable challenges for the casual golfer and a true test of skill from the Blue Tees. Come experience the best of Hill Country golf—your next great round starts here. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just falling in love with the game, Kerrville’s Scott Schreiner Municipal Golf Course awaits in the heart of Texas Hill Country. Meandering water features, sand bunkers, and gentle rolling hills make playing this 70-par, 18-hole course exciting and fun. Each hole was masterfully crafted by renowned golf course architect, Joe Finger, and is meticulously groomed for year-round play.  In addition to a top-notch experience on the links or practice range, the course’s friendly staff welcomes you to the clubhouse for a refreshing beverage, snacks, and camaraderie with fellow golfers. You can be sure it’ll be served with a generous helping of Lone Star hospitality! Dozens of wineries, springtime wildflowers, gorgeous fall foliage, and breathtaking vistas grace the Texas Hill Country. On the gentle rolling foothills of Tivy Mountain, you’ll discover yet another reason to visit. It’s the Scott Schreiner Golf Course in Kerrville. And according to the Summer 2021 edition of Texas Golf Insider  magazine, it’s the “Best Kept Secret in the Southwest.” This varied and interesting 70-par course has a championship layout thanks to two renowned architects. The “Father of Texas Golf,” John Bredemus, created the front nine in the 1920s. It later expanded to 18-holes and was redesigned by Joe Finger. If you’re not a golf enthusiast, his name may not mean a lot. But if you are, you’ll know Mr. Finger had a hand in designing scores of golf courses, including the prestigious Augusta National Golf Course. He crafted the Kerrville-Scott Schreiner Golf Course with both the casual player and seasoned pro in mind. An Exceptional Experience from Start to Finish on Scott Schreiner Golf Course Texas hospitality is alive and well at Scott Schreiner Municipal Golf Course! Whether you’re a club member or a visitor, the friendly and accommodating staff welcomes you the moment you arrive. If this is your first time playing here, you’re in for a treat. This premier Texas Hill Country golf course is unique and invigorating, with 18 completely different holes. You’ll never tire of playing here. Luckily, you can play year-round on superb fairways and greens. And the scenery won’t grow old either. While you make your way around the easy-to-follow track, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramas of the countryside. Throughout the course, you’ll have plenty of elevation changes to navigate, including a variety of mounded greens. The lush fairways have generous landing areas but are tight enough to test your skill and strategy. No matter your level of expertise, the sand bunkers and water hazards flanking the fairways and greens will keep you on your toes. So will the sparkling stream that crisscrosses the fairways! Overall, the front nine holes are a bit more difficult than the back nine, but both have their share of fun par 3s and 4s. A total of three par 5s will either have you patting yourself on the back for a job well done or drowning your sorrows in the clubhouse! The stunning signature hole, Number 17, is no different. The picturesque waterfall and water hazards that surround the green on three sides demand a solid approach and plenty of finesse. Stately oak trees rim this most difficult hole and have silently witnessed the triumphs and travails of many a golfer! Amenities Beyond the Links Speaking of travails, Hank Aaron once said, “It took 17 years to get 3000 hits in baseball. It took one afternoon on the golf course.” If you can relate, Scott Schreiner Golf Course offers plenty of practice options, including a driving range, a putting green, and two chipping greens. Stop by the pro shop to schedule a lesson. The pro shop sells gear and apparel to up your game, as well. Top off your exceptional day on the links with a visit to the 19 th hole. You’ll find an attentive and friendly staff, frosty beverages and snacks, and stunning views at the recently renovated clubhouse. Here you can celebrate your birdies and forget about your bogies. More importantly, you can enjoy the camaraderie of fellow golfers and make memories that last a lifetime! To plan your unforgettable day at the “Best Kept Secret in the Southwest" and to book a tee time, please visit Scott Schreiner Golf Course’s official website .

If you have never played the Bayou Golf Course here in northern Galveston County, you’re missing out on a facility that stands above the norm for course conditions, playability, history and value. Bayou Golf Course, which is owned and operated by the city of Texas City, has been a Gulf Coast staple for more than 50 years. It was 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 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 toward Galveston Bay and the Gulf of America. A lot has changed about the area in the five decades since drives were first struck and putts were initially holed at the Bayou Golf Club. In 2014, Houstonian Mike Nuzzo put his stamp on the experience here when he restored and enhanced the course, accentuating the track to bring water into play on 12 of the holes. Subsequent improvements and tweaks have been done as needed with the latest 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 testing greens complexes and demanding putting surfaces that helps the experience rise above the norm. 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 placed in 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 pins in places where precise approach shots are the only way they can be attacked and play close to par,” Skiba said. 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 225 yards and then an approach to another wind-affected, tiny green. The 481-yard par-5 10th is one of the most fun 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-shooter 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 sports 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 eight 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.

Our Opening Date is... Meadowbrook Golf Course will officially reopen to the public on Friday, October 3, 2025!  Tee times open 7 days in advance and details about our ribbon cutting and preview tournament will be announced soon! We can't wait to welcome you back! “The duck reflects what Meadowbrook Golf Course This new brand identity marks a fresh chapter for Meadowbrook Golf Course, one that cel­ebrates its unique natural environ­ment as much as its redesigned layout. Keep your ears open, if you hear the whistle, your next shot just might find the fairway. With the heavy construction behind them, the agronomy team has turned their attention to the  final step of Meadowbrook’s renovation - bringing the course to life with lush, new grass. To ensure a high-quality putting sur­face, Meadowbrook has replaced all Tifd­warf bermudagrass greens with TifEagle, another hybrid bermuda used at both city courses, Rockwood Park and Pecan Valley. With a few more months of growth and conditioning ahead, the course is on track to reopen by the end of summer 2025. “We’re almost there,” says McClure. “Walking the course now, you can really see the vision coming to life. From the tee boxes to the native landscaping, it’s all falling into place. We just need to give the grass a little more time to mature.” Alongside the course enhancements, a brand-new maintenance facility has been constructed to support the ongoing care and conditioning of the course. This modern hub will house the agronomy team and ensure that Meadowbrook’s new turf, greens, and infrastructure stay in pristine shape long after the course reopens. In keeping with the city’s commitment to sustainability, the renovation of Meadowbrook Golf Course goes beyond just turf and tees. Flower beds and native landscaping around the clubhouse and throughout the course have been replanted with Texas-native species. Vitex, salvia, and lantana, plants that thrive in the region’s climate and require far less water than traditional landscaping, now inhabit the beds along the back patio of the clubhouse. A sight that will please pollinators and patrons alike.  “It’s a win for the course and the environment,” notes McClure. “Not only does it reduce our irrigation needs, but it also gives Meadowbrook a strong sense of place. This isn’t just a golf course, it’s part of the East Side community, and it should reflect the land and people around it.” That community connection has remained at the heart of the project since the beginning. Meadowbrook sits in a neighborhood with deep roots and a rich cultural history and pride, and the city has worked to ensure that the renovated course honors that legacy. With long-term benefits, includ­ing increased tourism and recreational opportunities, Meadowbrook’s revival is about more than just golf. It’s a commit­ment to the East Side of Fort Worth, and a symbol of what public investment in community assets can achieve. The City of Fort Worth views Mead­owbrook Golf Course as a key piece of its portfolio of high-quality public golf facilities. By modeling this project on the successful blueprint of Rockwood Park, city leaders have doubled down on delivering memo­rable, accessible golf experiences for all. “Public golf in Fort Worth is thriv­ing,” McClure adds. “And Meadowbrook is proof that you don’t have to travel far to play a top-tier course. This is golf for everyone, and we’re excited to welcome golfers back soon.” When Meadowbrook reopens in Summer 2025, it won’t just welcome golfers back, it will reintroduce itself entirely. With a layout that honors its past and a design built for the future, Meadowbrook offers a course where strategy shines, natural beauty surrounds you, and the gentle call of a whistling duck reminds you that you’re right where you’re meant to be. So stay tuned, mark your calendars, and get ready to return to one of Fort Worth’s most historic fairways, reimagined for a new generation of golfers.

A trip to the Flying L Ranch Resort & Golf Course in Bandera is both a journey into the past and nod to the future — and that’s a good thing. There are plenty of Western-themed creature comforts scattered across the expansive resort property and a complete refreshening of the ranch’s lodging options and its amenities and a total renovation of the golf course have made the Flying L Ranch a “must-visit” destination deep in the Texas Hill Country. We’ve visited the Flying L Ranch on several occasions in the past, and I’m happy to report that everything that was great about the resort is still great. The improvements and enhancements, under-taken over the past six years by new owners Doug and Cindy Stevens and their family, have carried the destination into the present while embracing the property’s proud history, which dates back to 1947 when it was founded and developed by Colonel John H. “Jack” Lapham. Over the years, Flying L Ranch has welcomed numerous notable guests, including Stanley Marcus of Neiman Marcus, John Wayne, Slim Pickens, Willie Nelson, Tex Ritter, Jim Reeves, Ray Price, Buck Owens, Chill Wills, Jack Kramer, and Robert Fuller. The television show “The Cisco Kid” even filmed an episode at the ranch, adding to its legacy. The Stevens have taken a battered and once neglected jewel and polished all its facets. The family bought the Flying L Ranch off the auction block in February 2018 and had just a month to figure out a strategy to bring the resort back to life before taking charge. They had no previous experience in the hospitality industry, so the learning curve was a steep one. “It was like jumping on a fast moving train,” Doug Stevens said. “We had only driven through the property on a few occasions and had no idea what would be needed to bring the shine back to Flying L Ranch. We just leaned heavily on the tenants and ideals that we’ve always used in business — put the customer first and pay attention to every detail we can.” The renovation was a daunting one as the Stevens and crew soldiered on through the COVID pandemic, which affected sup-ply chains and ballooned expenses. One of the areas in most need of attention was the Flying L Ranch’s golf course, which had grown scruffy and unappealing after years of poor maintenance practices. Doug Stevens and his passionate crew, including sons Jason Stevens and Jonathan Tate, daughter Kristen Tomscha, superintendent Chuck Tondre, and pro shop manager Ken Hunt, dug into a renovation of the course from the irrigation level up.  Their three-year effort, unveiled at the track’s reopening this fall, have produced a thrill-a-minute course that is both fair and challenging — and huge step up from the previous course that originally opened in 1972. A little bit of everything  The new course at Flying L Ranch plays at 6,646 yards from the back tees and to a par of 72. While it won’t over-whelm you with length, the course asks you to use every club in the bag and has a nice mix of holes that move either to the left or right to make the golfer work the ball. Flying L Ranch’s course is enhanced by its bright-white crushed marble bunkers and its lush fairways that roll through stands of trees, over hills and around thoughtfully placed mounds that actually can help keep way-ward shots in play. One of the greatest things about the course is its flawless Bent Grass putting surfaces — a rarity for public golf courses with green fees under $100.  The routing at Flying L Ranch is an interesting one, with distinctive nines and a cool par 3 19th hole to settle wagers. The front side is more core golf — there are some areas three-holes wide without a house in site. The round begins with a reachable par 5, continues to a par 3 with a huge bunk in front that’s actually only in play on a poorly struck shot and then rolls downhill and to the left to the course’s signature hole — a 403-yard par 4 that ends on a completely round island green. The par 4 fifth is Flying L Ranch’s top handicap hole; it plays right to left across a stand of trees to a landing areas surround-ed by mounds and bunkers. The approach is to a long but narrow putting surface that abuts the resort’s entrance. No. 7 is a dynamite 170-yard par 3 that played slightly downhill to a green that cantered from right to left and from back to front. Take one more club than normal to be sure you carry the pond at the front. The 544-yard eighth is the longest hole at Flying L Ranch and is a true three-shot par 5 as it moves uphill and slightly to the left. The front side ends with demanding, uphill 435-yard par 4 that is narrowed at the approach by trees on the left near the green and bunkers both at the front and the rear. The back side differs from the front as its routing is through the property’s neighborhood, with the holes lined by homes. The corridors are still plenty wide, just not as wide as on the front side. After two par 4s of more than 400 yards, the routing moves to the 170-yard par 3 12th that’s surrounded by four bunkers and features a putting surface that slopes severely from back to front. The 13th is a reachable par 5 but beware a tight out of bounds on the left as the hole bends that direction near the landing area — there’s also a short stone wall that crosses the fairway about 120 yards from the green that should not come into play. The final par 5 at Flying L Ranch is the 15th, which is carded at 529 yards and moves to the left twice, first at the prime landing area and then at the preferred layup location.The hole tightens as it gets closer to the putting surface and requires shot execution and course management from tee to green. No. 17 is likely the most difficult par 3 on the course, playing at 185 yards from the back tees and into the wind to a green protected at the front by bunkers on both the left and right. That sets the stage for the closing hole, a 405-yard par 4 that turns hard right at about 240 yards off the tees before continuing slightly uphill to a wide but shallow putting surface. The aforementioned 19th hole is a nifty par 3 of 135 yards that finishes with a tiny, perfectly round green that’s surrounded by a horseshoe bunker. Attention to conditioning and detail is evident throughout the routing. Golfers who’ve played the course at Flying L Ranch before the renovation will remember some the holes here but have never seen the course looking, and playing, this great. It’s a perfect Texas Hill Country golf course, with hundreds of white tailed, axis deer and black buck antelopes to be spotted during your round. It’s fun from first tee shot to final putt. “There is no part of the course that we didn’t touch with this renovation,” Hunt said. “We really thought about how golfers would approach the challenge here and took that into consideration throughout. I love the course because I think it provides scoring chances for low-handicap players and there’s plenty of places to miss and still not be overly punished, especially on the front side. It’s a true ‘resort’ course.” Flying L Ranch also offers a driving range and two practice greens to hone your skills and get ready for the round. Stay all night, stay a little longer Bandera is known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World” with population of 895 and located approximately 40 miles northwest of San Antonio. Flying L Ranch Resort & Golf Course is about two miles outside the center of the city and is a perfect place to stay and play while taking the time to relax and take a load off.  The resort offers a handful of different accommodations to fit its guests individual needs, from cabins to villas to suites to spacious lodges. Each option provides a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere with a western motif. No party is too big or too small for a stay at Flying L Ranch Resort, which is actually perfect for large family gatherings, reunions, conferences and weddings. “

Photos by "The Collection of Joe Herring" Photos by "The Collection of Joe Herring" Photos by "The Collection of Joe Herring" Photos by "The Collection of Joe Herring" Kerrville, Texas (June 3, 2024) – In 1924, the beloved Scott-Schreiner Golf Course formally opened its doors for the first time. Originally opened as the Kerrville Country Club, the City of Kerrville acquired the course in 1934, making it the first and only municipal golf course in Kerr County. This year, the Kerrville Parks and Recreation Department will proudly celebrate the course's 100th year of operations. Photos by "The Collection of Joe Herring" In the coming months, we will celebrate this grand centennial milestone with promotions, giveaways and events. Starting June 12, everyone who attends the weekly Wednesday Centennial Scramble will have a chance to win a limited edition 30 oz. Yeti Rambler with the Centennial Scott Schreiner Golf Course logo on it. Wednesday Centennial Scrambles start at 5:30 p.m. Call the Scott Schreiner Golf Course by Tuesday at 3 p.m. to claim your spot in the scramble. As the only public golf course in Kerr County, the Scott Schreiner Golf Course is proud to offer reasonable rates on tee times, cart fees and memberships. The facility is open year- round, includes a stocked pro shop with snacks and beverages, a driving range, and hosts annual tournaments. This July will mark the 78th annual Heart of the Hills Golf Tournament which benefits youth golfers throughout the Hill Country. The Scott Schreiner Golf Course is thrilled to be celebrating 100 years of golf, comradery and sportsmanship. Next year, major improvements and upgrades will be made to the greens, sand bunkers, and more. This quality of life project will be funded by a sales tax revenue bond through the City of Kerrville Economic Improvement Corporation. Stay tuned for updates on the course’s centennial celebration and improvements. Visit golfkerrvilletex.com or call (830) 257-4982 to learn more about the Scott Schreiner Golf Course. Photos by "The Collection of Joe Herring"

Lee Trevino "Why I Mow My Own Yard..."

Nestled along the scenic banks of the Guadalupe River, Riverside Golf Course in Victoria, Texas, offers a tranquil yet challenging escape for golfers of all skill levels. With its rich history, strategic layout, and welcoming atmosphere, Riverside has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. A Layout That Blends Nature and Strategy Originally designed by Ralph Plummer in 1945, Riverside’s 18-hole, par-72 course stretches across 6,579 yards of mixed terrain. The layout combines tree-lined fairways, rolling hills, and water hazards that demand thoughtful shot placement. I found that out firsthand when I played there on my way traveling to Houston several weeks ago. The course is divided into the classic “Red” and “White” nine-hole loops, each offering its own rhythm and challenges. Golfers will find four sets of tees, making the course accessible to beginners while still offering enough complexity to keep seasoned players engaged. The fairways are framed by mature oak and pecan trees, and wildlife sightings adding a peaceful, parkland feel to the round. Riverside’s standout feature is its signature par-3 island green, a hole that is mentally demanding. Surrounded by water, this hole challenges players to dial in their accuracy and trust their swing. It’s the kind of hole that sticks in your memory long after the round is over—equal parts thrill and intimidation. Whether you stick the green or find the water, the island hole is a rite of passage at Riverside and a favorite among regulars. Riverside isn’t just about the course—it’s about the full golfing experience. The facility offers a range of amenities designed to make your visit comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable: Driving Range & Practice Areas: Warm up or sharpen your skills with a full-length range, short game area, and putting green. Pro Shop: Stocked with apparel, and accessories, the shop is staffed by knowledgeable professionals ready to assist. Clubhouse: A relaxed space to unwind post-round, featuring views of the course and river. It’s a great place to enjoy a cold drink before or after your round. Riverside Golf Course is the only open for play golf course in Victoria so if you’re staying for the weekend or just passing through and need to get a golf fix, stop in, you’ll enjoy the ride.  Visit www.playriversidegc.com or call 361-573-4521.

For 23 years, the Chairman’s Cup has been more than a golf tournament; it’s our tradition of giving back, supporting charities across southwest Louisiana," David Sickey, Chairman, Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana. Kinder, Louisiana – The Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana will host its 23rd annual Chairman’s Cup charity golf tournament September 24-25, 2025. These yearly funds are used to support local charities and institutions across Southwest Louisiana. The Chairman’s Cup charity golf tournament has been called ‘the best golf tournament in the South.’ At this prestigious signature event, tournament players will be treated to a variety of perks, including a “Luau by The Pool” meet-and-greet party on Wednesday night at the Dream Pool. Tournament participants will enjoy a fun-filled Luau-themed reception with fire dancers, cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres. During tournament play, golfers will enjoy fast, smooth greens with pristine fairways in a stunning landscape of stately pines, huge live oaks, and large, serene lakes on the resort’s award-winning course. Players will be treated to a huge range of on-the-course amenities. Participants will enjoy curated offerings of food and beverages at select holes, along with opportunities to win a variety of tee, hole, and raffle prizes throughout the event. This extremely popular event is a 2-day tournament and boasts a total of nearly 146 golfers per day, using the Peoria-style scoring system to determine tournament net winners. SPONSORS The presenting sponsor for the 2025 Chairman’s Cup is Coca-Cola®. This is the 9th year of their continued support of this worthy charitable cause. The 2025 Gold sponsors are Henderson Wholesale/Hunt Brother Pizza; W.G Yates & Sons Construction Co.; Farmer’s Seafood Company; Imagine This, Inc.; Tito’s Handmade Vodka; Polk Mechanical Co., LLC.; Goldman Sachs & Co., LLC. The 2025 Silver sponsors are Wenaha Group, Inc.; The Carson Group; Qk4, Inc.; Coushatta Casino Resort; Aristocrat Gaming; Mshkawzi Law, LLP; Calcasieu Mechanical Contractors. The 2025 Bronze sponsors are Louisiana Cat; Aruze Global; LCP/Fastsigns; Lippes Mathas LLP; Agilysys, Inc.; Church Point Wholesale; Advanced Cleaning and Restoration LLC; Siemens Industry Inc.; Capitol City Produce; TBE Architects; MAC Oil & Gas of Louisiana LLC; In-Telecom; Incredible Technologies; Baker Tilly; First Horizon Bank; Hancock Whitney Bank; CSRS, LLC; Cal-Cam Termite & Pest Control, Inc; Mudd Bruchhaus & Keating, LLC; Beverage Sales; Lake Charles Electric Company; Sysco; Light & Wonder; Everi; Allen Parish Community Healthcare; Chaumont Construction LLC; Gibko Nursery & Signs, Inc; IGT; DEF Rentals; Bluberi Gaming; Hunt Mosquito Repellant. The 2025 Hole sponsors are Convergint Technologies; B & D Displays, Inc.; Meyer, Meyer, LaCroix, & Hixson, Inc.; Trident Industrial; Southern Tank Testers, Inc; Chandler’s Parts & Service; Aladdin Construction; It’s Promo Time; JCM Global; Scott’s Ace Hardware, Inc; GEC Computer Systems, LLC; Ironclad Title, LLC; Community Coffee Company; Mark-it Smart; Providence First Trust Company; Manco Rentals & Sales, Inc,; Gasser Chair; Work Designs; Economical Janitorial. Additional donors for the 2025 Chairman’s Cup include Jared A. Couvillion, Professional Land Surveyor; Klas Robinson QED; Pixus, LLC; Smith Hardware & Rental LLC; S & V Services; and Uline. The golf tournament is an annual fundraiser hosted by the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana and held at Koasati Pines at Coushatta championship golf course. Local, regional, and national businesses participate as sponsors, with 100% of funds collected earmarked for donations to local and regional charities. Written requests for funding by Louisiana-based charitable and non-profi t groups, organizations, or individuals in need are submitted to the Tribe for review. Coushatta Casino Resort is located in Kinder, LA on Highway 165 (I-10 exit 44), featuring thousands of slots and table games including live poker, plus live bingo, sportsbook and off-track betting. Phone 800-584-7263 for more information or visit the website at ccrla.com or chairmanscup.com.

The line above from one of most read books of the 20th century could easily have been a mantra for the developers of Rockin’ J Ranch, the Hill Country community that was founded on old fashioned ideals and solid, core values. It was the land that drew Colonel Lee Roper, founder of Rinco – the parent company of Rockin’ J Ranch – to the region and enamored him to the site about four miles south of Blanco and about a half-hour north of the San Antonio city limit. “We enjoy it here,” said the 95-year-old Roper, who moved to the Canyon Lake area from El Paso in 1980. “As we were told when we first came here, the Texas Hill Country is some of the most sought-after property in the United States. 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.” The unique livability of Rockin’ J Ranch helps residents 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 golf course design. “Our location is one of our greatest selling points and has become even more so over the life of this community,” said Ryan Brubaker, the long-time sales manager at Rockin J’ Ranch. The community wasplated on a wide series of hills and plateaus amongst rolling fields of flowers and stands of oak and cedar trees. The natural land offers habitat to all kinds of wildlife, perfect for great photography and seclusion and a desired quality of life that’s hard to match. 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. Less than 10 percent of the original 1,800 homesites in the 1,064-acre community are still available for purchase and there’s no slowdown in sight for sales. You can still buy land at Rockin’ J Ranch land on a handshake agreement and – if you put 50 percent down – take 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., the developer of Rockin’ J Ranch and 23 other communities around the region, is in the land business and is not a home builder. One of Rockin’ J Ranch’s top 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 prairies. Throughout the round a golfer will play through many cool features such as ponds, sand hazards of various sizes, elevated tee shots and wavy, tree-lined fairways. Both nines at Vaaler Creek GC offer far-reaching views of the surrounding region and the generous homesite setbacks mean that the the houses near the course are mostly out of sight and unobtrusive, adding to the course’s isolated feel.