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It’s mid-September in the Midwest, and I am saying my prayers that winter doesn’t come until late November like it did last year. Who can forget the seven day stretch of 70-degree temperatures we experienced throughout the Midwest in mid-November that put a bow on a great season of weather.
Fall golf has always been my favorite thanks to less traffic on the course and a kaleidoscope of autumnal colors. If you’re looking for the ultimate fall getaway, then our lead story on Island Resort & Casino near Escanaba, Michigan has you covered. The casino is in the middle of a $30 million renovation that includes a second lodging tower, a new spa, and an incredible sportsbook. Plus, golfers can still enjoy five championship courses, including two on site, Sweetgrass and Sage Run, and a bevy of outstanding table games in between rounds. Our editor Glen Turk was able to experience all that Island Resort & Casino has to offer a few weeks ago and is thrilled to update their story!
Another remarkable fall destination is Firestone Country Club in Akron, Ohio. Glen had the great fortune of partaking in their stay and play packages that allow the public to be a member for your stay. The property will be linked to Tiger Woods’ greatness forever, as he won eight of the 16 WGC-NEC Invitationals he played in between 1999-2018. This year, their famed South Course hosted the Bridgestone Senior Players Championship won by Ryder Cup Captain Steve Stricker.
If you’re looking for a warm weather destination this fall, we urge your golf group to head to Wolf Creek in Mesquite, Nevada. The powerhouse property is a design marvel and a bucket-lister for sure!
A Fall Issue wouldn’t be complete without our annual Editor’s Choice Award. I almost had to do a double take when I saw it was our 16th annual edition – my, time sure does fly? At MGM we love seeing our golf ball fly straight and true and Deb Patton’s Holiday Gift Guide has a list of products sure to help your game.
Our Pro Page is back with a new installment from Michael Crowley, PGA Head Golf Professional at Morningstar Golfer’s Club, who discusses how every great shot starts with a process. We are also thrilled to profile underrated Midwest designer Raymond Hearn, who has such incredible courses as Mistwood (Illinois & Michigan), Purgatory, Island Hills, and The Natural on his resume.
Let’s hope we see all of your smiling faces at the golf shows in 2022 as a sign of everything getting back to normal.
Make Some Birdies,
Jay Royle, Publisher
