Thursday, July 26, 2012

GOLFING HIGHLIGHTS COLUMN 7-27-12


Villa Roma Ready For Democrat Tourney
  
  A lack of rain and dryness has effected a lot of course maintenance but continuous watering has kept the Villa Roma Golf Course ready to accept the challenge of our area's top amateur golfers at the 31st Annual Sullivan County Democrat two-man, better ball golf tournament.
  PGA Golf Professional Matt Kleiner noted late last week that course watering has become very important and that this championship course will be "made a little more difficult during the Friday qualifying round." 
  Matt noted he tends to evenly distributes pin placements making 6 easy, 6 medium and 6 difficult and that pin placements will be different each day.
  This premier tournament showcases the talents of the area's finest amateur golfers.
  Built in the late 1980's and opened for play in 1988, the course features some of the best fairways and greens in the region and has been called by Golf Digest "A Little Slice of Heaven."
  This par 71 course has a total yardage of 6,458 from the black tees and most golfing experts agree it is a perfect challenge for the expert. The front nine total 3,183 yards and the back nice totals 3,275 yards. From the blue tees its 3,000 yards on the front nine and 3,034 on the back nine.
  The fairways, greens and tee boxes still offer excellent conditions..
  The course was built by David Postlevaite. 
  Kleiner has been the  PGA Golf Professional at the Villa since 1986 while the course was still under construction. He provides golf instruction by appointments which can be made at the pro shop.
  Democrat golfers will find a Pro Shop that offers a complete selection of name brand men's and women's golf apparel and equipment including Nike, Slazenger, Gear for Sport, Titleist, Foot Joy, Callaway, Ping and Taylor Made.
  The course also offers a driving range, putting greens and practice facilities.
  The front nine of this course is very generous off the tee, but the greens must be read properly with their undulations. 
  Tournament golfers are encouraged to enjoy this beautiful layout and to  take in the magnificent views of the countryside. . Their web site is www.villaroma.com 
  Full details on this 18-hole championship course and a play by play description of each hole is available on my website http://bght.blogspot.com

                                                    Ed's Outlook

  Rally For The Cure is about helping people who are committed to making an impact in the fight against breast cancer. 
  Rally is an awareness program that provides a simple platform for people to educate their friends, family and community about breast health and breast cancer.
  Rally's volunteer organized golf events have communicated the important message that early detection saves lives to over 1.9 million people and have generated over $60 million for Susan G. Komen for the Cure since 1996.
  The Tennanah Lake Golf & Tennis Club is hosting a Rally For The Cure Tournament on Friday, August 3.
  Registration begins at 8:15 a.m.followed by a shotgun start at 9 a.m.
  Teams can be all women, all men or coed. 
  The scramble format includes a continental breakfast, lunch after golf and prizes. 
  Additional details can be obtained by calling Bret Reimer at 607-498-5000 or by email at tennanahlake@aol.com
 .                                                 
  Ed Townsend is a consultant to the sport of golf. If you have league scores, tournament info, a hole-in-one, scoring your age or any topic that you feel would make good reading Ed can be reached at 845-439-8177, by email at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com, by fax at 845-205-4474. View his column at http://bght.blogspot.com We are also on Facebook. 

                                                          The Golf Tip 
                                                      By Robert Menges 

  Prepare our mind for a better game.
  We all have different ways of doing things on the golf course, which is why one technique or strategy might work for one person but not another.
  For example, some of us will visualize the shot we want to hit in our mind, because it helps us execute the shot. For others, they have to experience the shot.
  With that said ( or written, in this case), it never hurts to try something new. So here are several "pep talks" you can create to help build your confidence for the next round.  After each round of golf, take 60 seconds to sit quietly and replay your three best shots of the round. Visualize them in slow motion and lock every detail into your memory. They'll come back to cheer you on in the future.
  Tell someone about your best shot of the day, but never talk about your worst shots. Professionals can usually remember every shot during a tournament, but there is one shot they "just don't recall"--it's their worst shot.  Let the bad shots go, and never, ever talk about them.
  After every shot, remember to say, "great shot" and mean it when you say it. the results may not be exactly what you wanted, but the ball went where you hit it. So go and do it again.
  Breathe before every shot or putt, remember to breathe deeply and softly. It will relax your whole body and allow you to focus on the task at hand.
  Make it a part of your pre-shot routine to consciously expect a great shot. As you pull the club from your bag, smile. As you look down the fairway or line up your putt, smile. As you stand over the ball, smile. Expect the best.
  Finally, but perhaps most importantly , have fun our there. Golf is a game. Yes, it can be very challenging and frustrating at times, but it is intended to be a form of enjoyment. Enjoy the day, the weather and the time with friends, Chances are, you'll enjoy the wonderful game of golf as well.
  Robert Menges is the golf pro at the Swan Lake Golf & Country Club, Mt. Hope Road, Swan Lake. He is available for private lessons and if you have a question you would like covered, he can be reached at 845-292-0323 or via e-mail at menges@hughes.net   

                                            The Putting Doctor  
                                              Tip Of The Week
                                              By Joe Bermel 

  If you want to score well you must learn to putt well.
  Without a doubt the #1 key is "organization of your mind."
  To ask and answer the questions, "what are we going to do and how are we going to do it.
  Remember the challenge in putting, in golf, and in sports in general is coordinating the mind and the body.
  Joe Bermel is available for private lessons, group, corporate, organization and golf shows-tournaments. His special edition DVD "How To Putt Well" is available by calling 631-589-1384, at his web site www.ThePuttingDoctor.com or by email at joe@theputtingdoctor.com 

 

VILLA ROMA FRONT NINE

VILLA ROMA FRONT NINE
  The front nine of this course is very generous off the tee, but the greens must be read properly with their undulations. The front nine features two part 5's, three par 3's and four par 4's.
  Hole No. 1 is a 365-yard par 4 which requires a straight drive off the tee and it's better to stay left center as the fairway slopes left to right. The key for a par here is club selection on your second shot.
  Hole No. 2 is a 213-yard par 3 with the fairway sloping downhill. A trap is to the right of this green and an accurate tee shot will determine the par here.Don't stray right here.  
   Hole No. 3 is a 533-yard par 5. Most of the fairway runs uphill and best to keep your tee shot in the center of this fairway. The green has undulations  and staying out of trouble here will get you your par.
  Hole No. 4 is a 408-yard par 4 downhill with a slight dogleg to the right. A good drive here and an accurate  pitch shot has you seriously looking at a birdie. The green slopes left to right .There is a deep bunker at the right front section of this green and a trap on the left side. A nice golf hole.
  Hole No. 5 is a 395-yard par 4. Keep it straight here and in the middle of the fairway. The second half of the fairway slopes slightly downhill. Good shot making will produce opportunities for a par or less here.
  Hole No. 6 is a 400-yard par 4, pretty much a straight shot. Traps are on the left and right front of this green.
  Hole No. 7 is a 171-yard par 3, the shortest hole on the front nine, There is a trap on the left side of the green but your club selection is important in recording your par,
  Hole No. 8 is a 495-yard par 5 and is the most interesting hole on the front nine, Keep your ball right center as this hole plays a slight dogleg right, The important decision on the second shot is to succeed with a long iron or good fairway wood and go for the green or lay-up with the second shot somewhere about 10 to 20 feet from the pong and marsh area, The green has traps on the right and left sides of this green. An excellent golf  hole. 
  Hole No. 9 is a 203-yard par 3 with traps on the left side and right front of this green. An accurate teen shot get you your par.                                                                                                                                   

VILLA ROMA BACK NINE


    VILLA ROMA BACK NINE
  The back nine has a total yardage from the black tees of 3,275. The back nine is longer and more challenging but rewards solidly struck shots.
  The back nine with a par of 36 features five par 4's, two par 5's and two par 3's.
  Hole No. 10 is a 385-yard par 4 with a tree lined fairway that opens up after the tee shot. The fairway slopes downhill and the key shot here is off the tee slightly off center to the left side of the fairway. There is water some 20 to 30 yards in front of this green and a trap on the left side of the green. A good wedge shot puts you in play for a birdie or par.....a real nice golf hole for the start of the back nine.
  Hole No. 11 is a 545-yard par 5, the longest hole on this course. It takes a good tee shot to keep you away from the marsh wet area located center-right off the tee, Keep the tee shot center or left center in the fairway  which slopes right to left. Keep is straight and this long hole rewards you with a par.
  Hole No,. 12 is a 357-yard par 4 with a dogleg left and the fairway running uphill to an elevated green. Keep you tee shot left center for a good second shot to the green. A trap is located on the right front side of the green.
  Hone No. 13 is a 174-yard par 3 which requires accuracy and good club selection. The tee is elevated high above the green so it is an all downhill shot. . Traps are left and right of the green. We really like this hole and your tee shot will determine your birdie or par.
  Hole No. 14 is a 332-yard par 4 with the first part of the fairway sloping downhill and a pond confronting golfers off the tee. Keep your tee shot firm and to the left center of the fairway to avoid a fairway trap on the right. The second half of the fairway slopes uphill to the green, which has a trap on the right front section.
  Hole No. 15 is a 513-yard par 5 with a dogleg right. Traps are on the left and right side of the green.
  Hole No. 16 is a 430-yard par 4 with an open fairway. Best play here is to the left side of the fairway. There is a trap on the right front section of the green. A nice par 4 here is reachable for many.
  Hole No. 17 is a 180-yard par 3 and the tee shot must go over a large pond. Take the water out of play and select the right club for putting the ball in the center of the green and you will have your par 3.
  Hole No. 18 is a 435-yard par 4 and some decision-making is in order for the tee shot. The fairway runs slightly with a dogleg right and there is a pond about 195-yards off the tee. It's about a 240-yard long tee shot to clear the pond so many golfers prefer to lay up in front of the pond. A nicely hit fairway shot from in front of the pond puts you in a good position for the par 4. There are traps left and right of the green. A few good decisions here makes this an outstanding golf hole.
  

HERE & THERE COLUMN 7-24-12


                                      "The Lion Sleeps Tonight"

  Jay Siegel and The Tokens singing of the popular sixties hit The Lion Sleeps Tonight" proved to be the show stopper which definitely electrified the audience at the July 14 NY Doo Wop Extravaganza at the Bethel Woods Center For The Arts.
  The Doo Wop crowd really got into this song and sang along as Siegel and The Tokens harmonized beautifully this song which was one of the early sixties biggest hits.
  Siegel of course was the lead singer for The Tokens and they were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall Of Fame. 
  The National Endowment For The Arts, along with The Recording Industry Association of America compiled a list of the Top 365 records of the twentieth century and "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" came in at number 159. 
  The Tokens also became well known when they did some recordings with the great Neil Sedaka who at the time of the recordings sang background while Jay Siegel was the lead singer.
  The Tokens first single on Warwick Records, "Tonight I Fell In Love" became a million seller with 700,000 sold copies in the United States and 300,000 copies in Canada and Europe. 
  "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" sold over three million records when it first came out and in four weeks to got to be number one and stayed on the chart for about three months and then it became number one in thirty-six countries all over the world. 
  Siegel and The Tokens lit up the Bethel Woods crowd with this song and many were heard singing this song at the shows end while walking to their cars. 
  Other popular songs sang by these Doo Wop groups who still maintain excellent singing qualities and beautiful harmony included The Excellents and their Brooklyn National Anthem "Coney Island Baby", Linda Jansen and "Till", The Marcels and "Blue Moon", The Elegants and "Little Star", adding that they "don't sing two fast songs in a row unless its at a medical convention", The Tymes and "So In Love" and The Duprees "You Belong To Me".
  Doo Wop songs feature both fast beats as frequently as slow ones and after the outstanding Bethel Woods show it can easily be seen how doo-wop groups played a significant role in ushering in the rock and roll era.
  Great show Bethel Woods, thank you for bringing this era back to Sullivan County. 

   
                                       

Photo Identification

Jay Siegel of The Tokens singing the popular hit "The Lion Sleeps Tonight".

                                                      
  

Friday, July 20, 2012

Golfing Highlights Column 7-20-12


Teaching Youth Is The Future Of Golf

  Teaching the game of golf to our youth will provide the growth and survival of this great sport.
  Sharing the passion for the game is exactly what the Tarry Brae Golf Programs are doing thanks to the dedicated staff at Tarry Brae headed up by PGA Professional Glenn 
Sonnenschein.
  These youth golf programs also teach kids critical skills that help them throughout their lives
   Sonnenschein pointed out that a number of these skills include:
  1. Honesty and integrity because the game is self-policed with players responsible for knowing the rules and applying them fairly to themselves.
  2. Good sportsmanship along with manners and etiquette are a critical part of the game.
  3. Perseverance because to a large extent golf is a game that requires practice.
  4. Good judgement comes when kids who golf learn to make good decisions.   
  The Tarry Brae Junior golf program offers three different types of program for juniors aged 7-18 and all are one week schools. 
  The camps run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon and the first camp was completed July 13. Two additional camps will run July 23-27 and August 6-10. The Tuesday Tournament series is open to any juniors ages 8-17. Golf youth clinics are held Saturday's from 11 a.m. to 12:30 and clubs are provided if needed. 
  Glen's son Ryan Sonnenschine, 21, a golf course employee presently working towards obtaining his PGA certification noted that they divide the young golfers up according to their ability and then help teach them the short game, putting, driving at the range, small course competition, bunker lessons and small course competition where they actually go out on the course and play several holes each day. 
  Glen pointed out that "we try to keep it light and fun and keep it moving."
  Another golf course employee who also helps with these camps is Max Heimowitz who presently is a member of the Monticello High School golf team and went through the Junior golf programs.
  The final day of the July 9-13 camp featured  competition in long and short putting with Oliver McLaughlin, 10, of South Fallsburg winning the long putting, Anna Bittinger, 11, of Monticello winner of the short putting contest, Ari Loewinger, 9, of Loch Sheldrake winning the  closest to the line on the driving range and the chipping contests  and Matt Gabriel, 13 of Eldred winning the 7-hole putting contest. 
  The enthusiasm and the willingness to learn was very evident on the faces of these young golfers at the Tarry Brae Town of Fallsburg Junior golf program. 

                                                   Ed's Outlook 

  The Tarry Brae Golf Course ascends and descends some hilly mountain side terrain with a number of doglegs and tree-lined fairways. A great course designed by architect William Mitchell who also placed many greens which slope back to front.
  The beautiful par 5 signature sixth hole is framed by Echo Lake and superintendents Clark Bartholomew and John Jaycox keep the course in excellent condition.
  PGA Professional Glenn Sonnenschein is available for lessons and tee times for this Town of Fallsburg municipal course are available by calling 845-434-2620.
  We played the course recently and complete details and play by play hole descriptions are available on our Web site at http://bght.blogspot.com 

  This column is written by Ed Townsend, a consultant to the amateur-professional sport of golf and to several golf writers associations. If you have league scores, tournament info. a hole-in-one, scoring your age or any topic that would make good reading Ed can be reached at 845-439-8177, by email at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com, by fax at 845-205-4474. View my full column at http://bght.blogspot.com  We are also on Facebook.                
                                       
                                                                    Golfing Tip 
                                                              By Robert Menges 

   Buried Bunker Lies. 
   To blast the ball out of the sand, your club needs to swing  more up and down to create a steeper angle of attack.
  To help illustrate, have someone stand (or picture a wall) several feet behind the ball. In the backswing, hinge your wrists early to get the club up more, avoiding the person (or wall). 
  Also make note of the length of the backswing. It should almost be a full swing. In order to create enough speed and energy to blast the ball out of the sand, avoid taking a short and /or low backswing.
  From this position, you will be able to swing the club into the sand on the downswing. It's imperative that you strike down into the sand 1 to 2 inches behind the ball and finish with the club low to the ground.
  Amateur golfers often try to scoop or help lift the ball out of the sand. This usually results in the club hitting the sand too far behind the ball and either missing it completely or taking too much sand and leaving the ball in the bunker. Or, the club misses the sand and strikes the top of the ball, resulting in a topped shot that can go anywhere.
  Robert Menges is the head golf professional at the Swan Lake Golf & Country Club, Mt. Hope Road, Swan Lake. He is available for private lessons and if you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached by phone at 292-0323 or via email at menges@hughes.net  

                                                                The Putting Doctor
                                                                     Putting Tip 
                                                                  By Joe Bermel 

    Here is one of the best putting drills since "sliced bread was invented.
    Drill # 2..... A Quadrant Drill
    1. Take 1 golf ball.
    2. On practice green, establish on one hole at four foot distance only.
    3. Ist putt straight uphill.
    4. 2nd putt straight downhill.
    5. 3rd putt right edge slight right to left.
    6. 4th putt left edge slight left to right.
    Every golfer has these 4 puts many times every round. Do this drill again and again. 
    Make yourself make 3 consecutive putts at each quadrant.
    This will make you a better 2 putt per hole average.
    Joe Bermel is available for private lessons, group, corporate, organization and golf shows-tournaments. His special edition DVD "How To Putt Well" is available by calling 631-589-1384, at his Web site www.ThePuttingDoctor.com or by email at joe@theputtingdoctor.com                                                   


                                                                       
Identification of the above photos


Participants and champions of the July 9-13 Tarry Brae Junior golf program include, front row from the left, Ari Loewinger, 9, Loch Sheldrake, winner of closest to the line at the driving range and the chipping contest, Oliver McLaughlin, 10, South Fallsburg, winner of the long putting contest, Matt Gabriel, 13, Eldred, winner of the 7-hole putting contest, and Lucian McLaughlin 6, South Fallsburg.  Back row from the left, instructor Max Heimwitz, Anna Bittinger, 11, Monticello, winner of the short putting contest, Hayley Weiner, 11, Fallsburg, Shane Bittinger, 9, Monticello, instructor Brandon Rieber and head instructor Ryan Sonnenschein.                                                     


Hayley Weiner, 11, Fallsburg, putts during the long putting contest held as part of the July 9-13 Tarry Brae Junior Golf program.

                                                              
  

Tarry Brae Front Nine



                                 TARRY BRAE FRONT NINE
   Doppler Radar Plays an important part of the  Fallsburg Municipal Tarry Brae Golf Course on Pleasant Valley Road in South Fallsburg. We arrived one  time at the course with a weather report in our hands that showed "a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m" and Golf Professional Glenn Sonnenschein was johnny on the spot as we walked into his office where he was viewing that day's weather activity on the Internet Doppler Radar.
  The Doppler system showed storms west of the Buffalo area and Glenn felt comfortable that it would be a pleasant day on the golf course with the beautiful sunshine we were experiencing at the time of our arrival.  Glenn remarked that this radar predicting system has become a "valuable tool in golf course management and if we are aware of severe weather and thunderstorms we send people right out on the course to get golfers back to the clubhouse."  Tarry Brae celebrated their 50th year in business last year and there are many reasons why this beautifully designed course is classified by many as a premier golf facility.  This course has four sets of tees, Black, Green, Golf and Yellow and the recommended tees by handicap men 0-8 Black tee, men up to 20 Green tee, men 21-35 and women 0-10 Gold tee and men 36 and up and women 11 and up Yellow tee.  The expanded tee options gives golfers the opportunity to choose the right tees to match your ability.   The average size green on this beautifully designed course is about 4,500 square feet and golfers will find the course well bunkered with various water hazards that tend to test your abilities.  Tarry Brae was first developed  in the early 1950's by some of the hotels in the Town of Fallsburg who felt they needed golf facilities to compete with some of the neighboring hotels who had their own golf course.  Tarry Brae was designed by William Mitchell and in the mid 1950's the golf course was taken over by the Town of Fallsburg. The town completed some of the work on this course and the golf course was officially opened in 1958.  This 18-hole par 72 golf course plays 6,965 yards from the Black tees, 6,389 yards from the Green tees, 5,789 yards from the Golf tees and 5,514 yards from the Yellow tees. The front nine plays 3,452 yards for a par 36.  This course is rated by Golf Digest with three and one-half stars and is considered by many to be classified as a premier golf facility. 
  While playing this golf course one can certainly consider this facility as very picturesque with enjoyable rolling greens and contoured fairways set in wooded surroundings.  The view of Echo Lake of the fairway approaching the sixth green will leave you breathless.
   Tarry Brae offers a comprehensive golf shop that carries both golf equipment and men's and women's apparel. A snack bar and grill is available.   Professional Golf Association (P.G.A.) Professional Glenn Sonnenschein heads up both staffs at Tarry Bray and the Lochmor Golf Club and has been associated with these facilities since 1997.
   He officially became a PGA Pro in 1990 after completing a seven-year PGA program  which included a playing ability test.  
  Glenn offers custom club fitting, private and group instruction, group and tournament assistance and service for all your golfing needs.
   Green fees at Tarry Brae are available by calling the golf course..
   Clark Bartholomew is the golf course superintendent and Jack Jaycox is the assistant superintendent.
    Here we will detail the front nine (1-9) of this golf course.
    Hole No. 1 is a 392-yard par 4 with an open fairway and a slight dogleg to the right. A trap on the left side of the green. Be careful with your approach shot to this green and don't go over the green.
    Hole No. 2 is a 402-yard par 4 with trees on both sides of fairway which slopes left to right. There is a sand trap in front of a slightly elevated green. 
    Hole No. 3 is a 438-yard par 4 with a dogleg left. Take you best shot over the tree and fairway trap on the left side of the fairway. There is a sand trap in the front of this green.
    Hole No. 4 is a 209-yard par 3 presents an open fairway with green traps left  front and right back. Club selection important here for your birdie or par.
    Hole No. 5 is a 408-yard par 4 with a two-level open fairway. Water comes into play on the right edge of the fairway. Traps are left and right of the green.
    Hole No. 6 is a 491-yard par 5 with trees on the left side of the fairway. Take you tee shot right center. The fairway eventually slopes downhill to the green. Best to stay right shooting down to the green....don't go over the green as Echo Lake is in the background. This is a real pretty approach shot to this green.
    Hole No. 7 is a 169-yard par 3 with traps left and right of the green. Again club selection here plays an important part in getting a birdie or par.
    Hole No. 8 is a 417-yard par 4 and best to take your tee shot right center. There are fairway traps left and right side. Pretty much an open fairway.
    Hole No. 9 is a 526-yard par 5 with a dogleg right. Take your tee shot right center for better approach shots to this green. A trap on the left side of the green.
    For golf course information and tee times call 434-2620 or go to their web site at www.tarrybrae.com                

Tarry Brae Back Nine


                           TARRY BRAE GC BACK NINE

The back nine of the Tarry Brae Town of Fallsburg Golf Course (holes 10-18) plays 3,513 yards to a par 36. This 18-hole course plays to a total of 6,965 yards with a par 72.
 Hole No. 10 is a 543-yard par 5 with the fairway sloping left to right. Best to take your tee shot left center.
  Hole No. 11 is a 201-yard par 3 with the fairway running slightly uphill. The green has traps on the left and right. Hitting the right club off this tee decides a par score.
  Hole No. 12 is a 365-yard par 4 with trees on the left side and a fairway trap on the right. Best to take your drive in the center of the fairway. There is a big trap to the left and center of this green.  Hole No. 13 is a 433-yard par 4 with a slight dogleg to the left. A fairway sand trap is on the right and green trap is on the left side.
  Hole No. 14 is a 408-yard par 4 with an open fairway. Take your drive left center to avoid the fairway trap on the right. There is a trap on the left side of the green. 
  Hole No. 15 is a 391-yard par 4 with trees and fairway bunkers on the left side. Best to take your tee shot right center. Traps on the green are on the left and right center. 
  Hole No. 16 is a 425-yard par 4 with a fairway sand trap on the left side. Take your tee shot center of the fairway. There is a small stream about 20 yards in front of this green which also has a sand trap on the right side. 
  Hole No. 17 is a 206-yard par 3 with a pond on the right and a stream running in front of the green. Careful club selection is the key to a birdie or par here.
  Hole No. 18 is a 541-yard par 5 with a sloping fairway running uphill. A nice finishing hole.
  For golf course information and tee times call 434-2620 or go to their web site at www.tarrybrae.com
 
                                     

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Here & There Column 7-17-12


Short Stack For Tall Cause

  Childhelp of the Hudson Valley will be hosting their 2ed annual Pancake breakfast at the Middletown Applebee's located at 12 Orange Plaza Road on Saturday July 28 from 8-10 a.m.
  There is no better way to start off your morning by enjoying a flap jack served to you by New York royalty and by doing so you will be assisting this great organization which is working hard to put an end to child abuse.
  Beauty queens from across New York and the Childhelp beauty queen "Divas" will be special guest servers.
  Tickets for this event are $10 but if you bring a minimum of 5 school supply items for the organizations "Tools For Schools" drive you will receive $3 off the regular price.
   Statistics released by Childhelp of the Hudson Valley note that five children die everyday as a result of child abuse and that a report of child abuse is made every 10 seconds and so this leading national non-profit organization believes that every child has a unique contribution to the world.
  The organizations philosophy states, "we do everything within our power to help each child heal and develop self esteem to reach their God given potential and believe that hope and love is the foundation upon which all healing begins."
  Childhelp of the Hudson Valley has created a way for community members to join the fight against child maltreatment and to focus efforts on prevention and treatment of Child Abuse.
  The breakfast will also feature raffles and photo opportunities with the beauty queens.
  For more information on Childhelp visit their Web Site at www.childhelp.org and on Facebook at facebook/childhelp of the Hudson Valley.
  Come out and join Childhelp for a "Short Stack for a Tall Cause" and reserve you tickets in advance (this is required)  by calling President Aimee Swift at 845-733-6945.   

                                                             

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Church Tent Meetings


SPECIAL CHURCH TENT MEETINGS

  LIBERTY--The Liberty based Lighthouse Ministries, with pastors Rich and Cathy Ienuso, will hold three nights of Gospel Tent Meetings August 2-August 5 at the church location at 5 Triangle Road, Liberty.
  Evangelist Joe Chamberlin will preach and the 6 p.m. meetings will feature music, healings, prayer, salvation and the word of God.
  A special youth service August 4 from 1-3 p.m. will feature free school supplies, bible lessons and music and fun for youth 6-18. 
  Additional information may be obtained by calling 845-985-7026

Peters Celebrate 60th Anniversary


PETERS CELEBRATE 60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY   W/PHOTOS

  YOUNGSVILLE--Sixty years of marital bliss which also included raising a family, working together running a business, supporting their community and suffering close family losses is what Youngsville residents Burgess and Elizabeth (Betty) Peters remember on their wedding anniversary date of June 29. 
  This popular Sullivan County couple celebrated their anniversary Friday evening June 29 with a small gathering of relatives and friends for dinner at the Liberty Diner. 
  Burgess and Betty were married on June 29, 1952 at the Jeffersonville Presbyterian Church with Pastor Leroy Hertzog officiating. 
  Best man for Burgess was his brother Russell Peters Jr. and Maid of Honor for Better was a close friend Louise Sickmiller.
  A Jeffersonville resident Betty's maiden name was Ray. Burgess was raised and lived at an RFD route in Callicoon. 
  Both Betty and Burgess have been and still are very active in the Jeffersonville Prestyterian  Church which Betty noted "has been the center of our lives." 
  Both have served as Church Elders, Betty serves as President of the Women's Association,  they have both worked in Missions and community work, Burgess worked with the church Cub Scout organization, Betty with the Junior and Senior Girl Scout Brownies for 13 years, Betty taught Sunday School for 14 years, Burgess has also been a Church Trustee and Betty a Church Deacon. Burgess presently still is an Elder. 
  Burgess was  one of the original founders and leading  financial supporters of the Glory To God Christian High School and was the original organizer some years ago of the Sullivan County Taxpayers Association.
  Burgess and Betty have owned and operated the Price Rite Trailer Sales in Youngsville for 45 years with Betty working as secretary in the business while raising their family at the same time.
  Prior to getting into the Camper Trailer Sales business they owned and operated an ice cream business for 20 years in addition to operating a small farm. 
  Betty and Burgess were blessed with three children, Kurt, who own and runs the Camper Sales business in Montgomery, Bonnie Peters Hodny who passed away at the age of 51 and Corinne Peters who died at the age of 36 as a result of an automobile accident.
  Tragedy again struck the Peters family a little over a year ago when their grandson Patrick, who they helped raise, was killed in an automobile accident. 
  The Peters are additionally blessed with three grandchilden, Jonathon, Amber and Debra and two great grandchildren Makayla and Jaime. 
  Burgess at 81 is still actively running the Price Rite Trailer Sales business while Betty noted that she is following close behind with her age.

          

                                                

IDENTIFICATION OF ABOVE PHOTOS

Son Kurt Peters, left, joins mother and dad, Betty and Burgess Peters at their 60th wedding anniversary gathering June 29 at the Liberty Diner. 
                                                   -

Betty and Burgess Peters on their wedding date of June 29, 1952.

                                                            


Memorial Tourney Raises Scholarship Funds

TOURNEY RAISES MONEY FOR YOUTH SCHOLARSHIPS       
                                              
   ROSCOE --Youth golfer scholarships benefited Sunday, July 8 when 54- golfers competed  in the annual Twin Village Golf Club (TVGC) Memorial Scholarship Tournament.
   The tournament is past years has assisted flood victims, sick children, the Roscoe Ambulance Corps  and the Roscoe Fire Department.   
   The $650 raised this year goes directly into the Twin Village Golf Club Youth Golfer Scholarship fund.
   Tournament Director Chuck Husson  thanked sponsors who donated prizes, Spiro's Countryside Restaurant, The Rockland House, Buffalo Zack's,  Cracolici's On The Green, 
Ramondo's, Courtyard, NYC Gyro,  Mershon's Main St. Deli,  Grossingers's Country Club, French Woods Golf & Country Club, Tennanah Lake Golf & Tennis Club, Terry Brae Golf Course, Lochmor Golf Course, Sullivan County Golf & Country Club and Swan Lake Golf & Country Club.
  The tournament featured an 8:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. shotgun starts and used the Captain and mate format. 
   A list of the tournament champions is in the photo accompanying this story. 
                                       
            
IDENTIFICATION OF ABOVE PHOTO

  Champions of the Twin Village Golf Club Memorial Scholarship Golf tournament are, from the left, Bob Lee and John Templin (Men's Senior Division), Tom Roseo and Walter Herzog (Men's Division), John and Marcia Fink (Mixed Division), Mary Austin and Jean Knickerbocker (Ladies Division), Mary Day and Sally Shea (Ladies Senior Division) and Dot Quick and Jim Bedford (Mixed Senior Division). 

                                                           -
 

Golfing Highlights Column 7-13-12


 Bowers & The Long Putter

  Fifty-eight year-old Grossinger pro-shop assistant Jim Bowers suffered a back injury some 17 years ago and was forced to change his putting style and the type of putter he used.
  His doctor suggested to him that bending over to putt the ball would not be good for his back injury so Jim went and purchased the chest style long putter.
  Bowers, a well-known and established golfer and the former coach for 20-years of the Roscoe Central School golf team acknowledged that he was aware of both the long putter and the belly putter but the long putter fit his condition better because he didn't have to bend over with the long putter. 
  Today golfers have their choice of the standard size putter, the belly putter, the long putter and the broomstick putter.
  Jim's selection of the long putter definitely helped his injured back but learning to hit and score the long putt took a long time and a lot of adjustment.
  Shooting and scoring the short putts gave Bowers the confidence he needed to stay with the long putter. "My short putts are more automatic with this putter," he added. "I don't have the yips on the short putts anymore," Jim said. 
  A single-digit low handicap golfer Bowers has won eight club championships at the Roscoe Twin Village Golf Course and also served 15-years on the Board of Directors, six years as president. 
  Playing golf starting at the age of 12 while caddying at Tennanah Lake Jim Bowers is thankful that the long putter was available to help with an injury that without this putter might have put him out of the game.
  There has been a lot of debate and discussion in recent years as to whether long putters, belly putters and broomstick putters be ruled non-conforming by golf's governing bodies and this has all come about as a result of Keegan Bradley's 2011 PGA championship victory when he used a belly putter. 
  Terms used in describing these style of putters is that a long putter is either a belly putter or a broomstick putter whose length is significantly more than a standard or conventional putter and that the longer putters are anchored against the golfers body. 
  Golf's governing bodies, the R&A and USGA have so far stayed away from regulating belly and broomstick putters out of existence. Anchoring the long putters against the golfer's body is the major bone of contention with some golfers.
  Anchoring a putter against the body or sternum provides a third point of contact between the golfer and club (after his or her two hands, of course) and that anchor serves as a fulcrum point for making the pendulum putting stroke and the long putters have always been controversial by some for that third-point-of-contact reason.
  There most likely will be a time somewhere down the line where the USGA could be forced to make a ruling on the concept of players anchoring a club against their body or will there be approval of the long putters reputation of being a last resort for older golfers who need a more upright putting posture due to achy backs.                                           
                                             

                                                                     The Golf Tip
                                                                 By Robert Menges  
  
    How To Hit Out Of A Divot. 
    Sometimes you hit a great drive right down the middle of the fairway and think you have an easy shot to the green, only when you get to your ball you find it sitting in the middle of a divot that someone didn't replace. 
    Unfortunately, due to a rule called rub of the green, you must play  the ball where it lies and hit the ball out of the divot.
    Instead of being upset about your predicament, if you just make a few adjustments this shot is quite easy.  First, you should always use one more club than you would normally use from that yardage. After you have selected your club, you should grip down, or choke down on the club.
    When you aim, try to aim more left than usual (this is for right-handed golfers), as the ball will have a tendency to curve to the right after impact.
    Try to play the ball more towards the back of the stance, this should make the ball fly lower than normal and put more spin on it. 
    When you make your swing be sure to hit down on the ball and drive through it with some acceleration. A full follow through is not necessary, keep your arms and hands low through impact and hit more of a punch shot.
    The key to this shot is to make contact with the ball first and then drive the club through the shot keeping your head still.
    Robert Menges is the head golf professional at the Swan Lake Golf & Country Club, Mt. Hope Road, Swan Lake. He is available for private lessons and if you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached by phone at 292-0323 or via email at menges@hughes.net  

                                                              The Putting Doctor
                                                                   Putting Tip 
                                                                 By Joe Bermel 

    Most important barameter for building putting skills is MOTIVATION.
    The student golfers I have taught over the years that improve the most are those that are motivated the most.
     Practicing diligently what they learn.
     Performing the putting drills every practice session.
     Building better putting skills is an ongoing process. Try EVERY week.
     Joe Bermel is available for private lessons, group, corporate, organization and golf shows-tournaments. His special edition DVD "How To Putt Well" is available by calling 631-589-1384, at his Web site, www.ThePuttingDoctor.com or by email at joe@theputtingdoctor.com     

                                                      Ed's Outlook

   Cell phones on the golf course can at times be very disturbing as was evident recently in the Memorial tournament when Phil Mickelson was annoyed at the number of spectators on the course during the first round who were using their cell phones to take pictures, which can cause a distracting noise if the phone is not put on silent. 
  Lefty was bothered by this so he got out his cell phone and texted PGA Commissioner Tim Finchem. Taking photos is against tour regulations but good luck enforcing it.
  Even in league and tournament play locally golfers just refuse to turn off their cell phones and this does nothing but cause unnecessary distraction.
                                                    

   Ed Townsend is a consultant to the amateur- professional sport of golf and to several golf writers associations. If you have league scores, tournament info, a hole-in-one, scoring your age or any topic that you feel would make good reading Ed can be reached 845-439-8177, by email at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com  or by fax at 845-205-4474. View our column at http://bght.blogspot.com We are also on Facebook. 



IDENTIFICATION OF ABOVE PHOTO

Jim Bowers using his long putter.

                      

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Here & There Column 7-10-12



 Another Tax ? & Medicaid Problelms

  Folks, it's not getting any easier to understand government and now we have been told that the ObamaCare bill does not apply to members of Congress and that the Supreme Court ruled that the bill is constitutional and the individual mandate to purchase insurance falls under Congress' authority to tax and that ObamaCare constitutes a tax.
  The high court did what Congress was afraid to do and called ObamaCare a Tax.
  Another tax when the majority of our residents are daily, weekly and yearly being pounded over the head that government must increase taxes because of mandates, etc, etc,
  Keep a close watch on this one......under the national health care law states now take an option granted by the Supreme Court to make major decisions about their Medicaid programs.
  Millions of lower income people could still be left without medical insurance under the ObamaCare law if states take an option granted by the Supreme Court and decide not to expand their Medicaid programs.
  Decisions made by those in power at Albany could have direct effect on Sullivan County and the entire state of New York. If Albany decides not to expand their Medicaid programs the mandate to Sullivan County could be the same or less, if the decision to expand Medicaid then this would have a huge effect on county government and taxpayers,  
  Medical experts now say that the Supreme Court has completely defanged the Medicaid expansion as called for in the new healthcare law because the way Medicaid  works is the federal government pays for a little more than half of each state's Medicaid program and the state kicks in the other half.
  The federal government can only condition the new Medicaid money because they are offering to pay for portions of the expansion.
  Some 26 states successfully sued to overturn the Medicaid expansion mandate and this somewhat gives us an idea of how many states will refuse their Medicaid expansion.....we are not too sure which way New York will go.
  A  lot of homework has to be done by all taxpayers in regard to the ObamaCare law and we find it a shame that lower income and elderly could be badly hurt with new Medicaid regulations. 

                                                                
  
 

  

Friday, July 6, 2012

Golfing Highlights Column 7-6-12


  TVGC Considering Financial Offer From OSI   

  The economy, finances and making sure the budgets stays in the Black have become major management topics among owners and operators of small nine-hole golf courses and this has now prompted the Roscoe Twin Village Golf Course (TVGC) to explore a $188,500 conservation easement offer from the Open Space Institute (OSI).
  Bob Anderberg, New York OSI general counsel explained the OSI offer before the Clubs certificate holders June 27 at the organizations club house. 
  Anderberg explained that OSI protects scenic, natural and historic landscapes to ensure public enjoyment, conserve habitats and to sustain community character and achieves its goals through land acquisition, conservation easements, regional loan programs, fiscal sponsorship, creative partnerships and analytical research.  
  He acknowledged that much of OCI's work in New York is accomplished through a permanent fund from Lila Acheson and DeWitt Wallace endowment in 2001. 
  All of OSI's work is directed by a consistent conservation strategy that emphasizes permanent protection on a landscape-level scale and the program since its inception in 2000 has made more than 70 loans and grants for nearly $80 million to protect 1.6 million acres valued at over $530 million. 
  Under the proposed environmental easement Anderberg explained that TVGC would not be able to develop the land or sub-divide it and that they would be able to continue as a golf course, ownership would not change, no fracking would be allowed, the club house building could be expanded up to a total of 3,000 square feet, additions could be made to the maintenance shop building, a golf cart protection shelter could be added to the course and there would be no restrictions as to what the club does within the club house.
  The 29-acre nine-hole 2,045 yard par 32 TVGC is presently appraised at $400,000 and would receive from OSI the total sum of $188,000 but after paying taxes the total figure would be approximately $141,000. TVGC could opt to received payments over a five-year period of about $32,000 per year.
  Certificate members attending this meeting voiced positive and negative responses with those supporting the OSI offer saying that the $32,000 per year for five years would help the club purchase needed maintenance equipment, help with club house improvements, add new sand and upgrade the sand traps and allow the purchase of additional golf carts.
  TVGC board of directors treasurer Chuck Husson, a strong supporter of the proposal said that the only way the club has been able to stay out of the red is money received from an annual year-end fund raiser but that there was never enough funds to make needed club improvements. Husson said the club has lost membership, expenses are up, income is down and the club can not continue to depend on the end of the year fund raiser to keep it out of the red. He projected that with the easement the club could make needed improvements and be financially sound for at least 10 years. 
  Several certificate board members expressed concerns that in their opinion the club was meeting existing expenses, that the easement would not have any affect on the present assessment and that some land owners who have made these arrangements with OSI regretted what they had done. 
  Of the 24 certificate members attending this informational meeting 18 voted in favor of exploring the offer from OSI and agreed that consideration should be given to hiring an attorney with environmental easement legal background to examine the OSI easement proposal. 
  The TVGC board will also mail a ballot to all certificate club members.

                                                                                                                
                                                     Golf Tip    
                                              By Robert Menges 

  Restricted Back Swing: Some times you are faced with a  shot, which will not let you take a full back swing. We all would love to hit the ball in the middle of the fairway all the time, but, unfortunately at times we find ourselves off the fairway and under a tree. In this case we might not be able to take a full back swing.
  When you are faced with this shot, you should choose a club you are comfortable with. Remember you want to make sure you get your ball out of trouble. When you set up, you should take a practice swing to see how much room you have before you are going to contact the tree. If you break a branch during your practice swing it is a penalty, so be careful. On your set up, place the ball back in your stance slightly and try to keep your feet closer together. When you start your swing, you must remember to let your shoulders bring the club back. A mistake I see people make is to use your wrists to pick the club up. Once your shoulders have turned, cock yours wrists by pointing your thumbs at the sky. Once you start your down swing you want to keep your balance by keeping your lower body still. Make sure you hit down on the ball and follow through with your arms and hands staying lower than usual. Many people call this a punch shot. Keep your eye on the ball longer than you normally do to make sure you get solid contact.
  It is important to get the ball back in play so you don't loose too many strokes. It is not always the right choice to hit the perfect shot in this case.
  Robert Menges is a golf pro at the Swan Lake Golf & Country Club, Mt. Hope Road, Swan Lake. He is available for private lessons and if you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached at 292-0323 or via e-mail at menges@hughes.net 

                                                    The Putting Tip
                                                     By Joe Bermel

  Practice your putting only on days that end in Y.
  Absolute key to consistent putting is repetition practice sessions.
  That's how we build Confidence so when we play a round we can perform with absolute competence and skill.
  Practice (30-minute sessions as an every week process.
  We need to keep 3 key areas sharp, MIND, EYES, HANDS.
  Joe Bermel is available for private lessons, group, corporate, organization and golf-shows-tournaments. His special edition DVD "How To Put Well" is available by calling 631-589-1384, at his Web Site www.ThePuttingDoctor.com or by email at joe@theputtingdoctor.com

                                                  Ed's Outlook

  A note to all our local golfers......we want to make sure that your golfing achievements get recognized so please give us an email or phone call if you or one of your golfing partners scores a hole-in-one or shoots a round of golf equal to their age......or anything else that would make good golfing news. 

    Ed's Outlook and this column are written by Ed Townsend, a consultant to the amateur-professional sport of golf and to several golf writers associations. If you have a topic that would make good reading, or have golf scores, standings or tournament information, Ed can be reached by phone at 845-439-8177, by email at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com or by fax at 845-205-4474. For full coverage of our column visit our Web Site at http://bght.blogspot.com. We are also on Facebook. 


                                                   

IDENTIFICATION OF PHOTOS FROM TOP TO BOTTOM

Bob Anderberg, general counsel for Open Space Institute addresses the subject of an environmental easement to certificate members of the Roscoe Twin Village Golf Course.

The Roscoe Twin Village Golf Club clubhouse. 

                                                              -

                                                                          



Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Here & There Column 7-3-12




  Independence Day-Size Of Government

  Tomorrow we celebrate Independence Day commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence which was drafted by Thomas Jefferson.
  The Declaration of Independence is this nation's most cherished symbol of liberty.
  The political philosophy of the Declaration was not new as it expressed ideals of individual liberty.
  Thomas Jefferson is greatly known for his work in summarizing the philosophy in "self-evident truths" as he set forth a list of grievances against the King in order to justify before the world the breaking of ties between the colonies and the mother country (England). 
  Jefferson also became well known when he made another famous statement which said, "a government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have."
  As we celebrate the 4th we here in Sullivan County and New York State as well as nationwide can certainly understand that government is indeed strong enough to take everything we have.
  The size of government has risen tremendously and we must start reducing taxes and the size of government by applying well practiced principles to government.
  The size of government overall has risen tremendously--up 76% in the last decade and when politicians call for more government programs they are proposing to make this worse.
  We continue to hear politicians say that it's government mandates that raise taxes and taxpayers are saying reduce or do away with what is creating the mandates.
  Tax reduction should be all politicians top priorities. The economy suffers when government takes money from your paycheck that you would spend or invest for you and your family's future.
  Government waste and pork barrel spending is rampant and needs to be cut but our political process leads to too many compromises and reciprocal favors.
  It is imperative that we cease excessive government spending and do away or reduce any government tax or excessive regulation that cuts the bottom rungs of the economic ladder.
  As we celebrate Independence Day and the freedom we enjoy it's vital that politicians on all levels of government apply well practiced principles including a pay-as-you-go policy, employing top business consultants to evaluate government programs, adopting zero-based funding budgeting, eliminating redundant and outdated government programs and ending the practice of earmark appropriations. 
  Happy July 4th. 

                                                            
  


Monday, July 2, 2012

Golfing Highlights Column 6-29-12


                                            Wild Life & Professional Staff At Woodloch

  Bambi and some of her running mates joined us recently at the beautiful Woodloch SpringS Country Club for 18-holes of challenging golf.
  The wildlife and particularly the many deer that roam this facility are seemingly never bothered by the golfing activity and this one deer we called "Bambi" watched us tee off and let us walk up fairly close to her. We encountered many deer throughout the course.
  The Country Club golf facilities at Woodloch Springs near Hawley. Pa. offers an outstanding staff to meet golfers needs.
  John E. Pillar Sr. is the PGA Professional and Director of Golf at this award-winning resort and championship golf course. The Head Golf Professional is PGA Professional Jared Cottell. Eileen Pillar is the Golf Retail Associate and handles most of the tee-time and golf lesson appointments and is in charge of the golf retail and pro shop sales. Keeping this beautiful golf course in top notch condition is Golf Course Superintendent Jeff Hugaboom.
  Woodloch's traditional warm hospitality extends from their famous resort and definitely includes their Country Club at Woodloch Springs.
  Owned, operated and managed by the Kiesendahl family since 1958, the Woodloch resort is world famous for their immaculate accommodations, abundant and delicious meals and endless activities which of course includes the Woodloch Springs golf facility that has received national acclaim in man of today's leading golf magazines and publications.
  In 1988, an ambitious project was unveiled to add an exclusive golf community as the perfect complement to the resort. Four years in planning and 438 acres later, the community and golf course were completed and now more than 400 exquisitely details homes surround the par 72 eighteen-hole course which winds over 6,579 yards of lush wetlands, fern-carpeted forests and broad upland  meadows.
  With four sets of tees on every hole, all levels of plan can be accommodated. Sculptured bunkers and water holes, bridges and miles of cart paths reflect the strict attention to detail which Woodloch is famous.
  A beautiful clubhouse overlooks the rolling greens of the course and provides the perfect setting for leisurely dining along with special events.
  Rocky Roquemore of Atlanta. Ga. designed this beautiful golf facility and for first time golfers you will find a challenge.. Make sure you take a copy of the Woodloch Springs Yardage Book with me on the course......it proved to be a valuable tool.
  Tee times for outside guests are available on limited-play based on availability four days in advance..
  Golf course tee times can be reserved by calling (570) 685-8102. The official web site is www.woodloch.com and Pillar's e-mail is john.pillar@woodloch.com 
   Playing what Golf Magazine and Golf Digest both called "one of America's best courses" along with this columnist were Liberty golfers Dean Winters, Charles Winters and George Labouseur.
  Last week we detailed the front nine and this week from the gold tees this is the way the back nine is played.
  Hole No. 10 is a 524-yard par-5 which requires a good tee shot of approximately 200 yards and this drive should be taken to the right of a fairway bunker on the left side of the fairway. Putting your drive here will leave you with a good second fairway shot. This fairway slopes right to left. There is water across the fairway some 260 plus yards from the tee and on your third shot its recommended to use one more club as the fairway runs uphill. Sand traps to the left and right sides of the green.
  Hole No. 11 is a 354-yard par-4 with a dogleg left and requires a tee shot left of the fairway bunker some 257-yards from the tee. Small pond located short left of the green will come into play. Bunker to the right side of the green.
  Hole No. 12 is a 346-yard par-4. Put your tee shot left of a fairway bunker some 242-yards from the tee. From the tee there is pond to the right. Your second shot is uphill to a sloped two tiered green. Club selection on second shot is important. Try to stay below the pin. Traps to the left, right and right rear of this green.
  Hole No. 13 is a 357-yard par 4 with trees on both sides of the fairway. Straight down hill requires an accurate tee shot. Drop one club on your second downhill shot to a green with traps front left and right side.
  Hole No. 14 is a 577-yard par-5 and is Woodloch's "Signature" hole. This difficult hole will test your every skill. From the gold tee it a 220-yard carry over Hells Gates Gorge. This will leave you a long second shot which you should keep right. If you've managed to hit it far enough there a clear third shot to a flat green .If not a lay up third shot is the smart play. An outstanding golf adventure on this hole and we certainly understand why it is the "Signature" hole.
  Hole No. 15 is a 160-yard par-3 and this hole requires a tee shot that will carry to avoid wetlands that surround the green. The green slopes from back to front. Club selection is important here and take enough club to carry the hazard.
  Hole No. 16 is a 386-yard par-4 and it requires a long tee shot to a small fairway. The ideal shot is left of the cart path. Your second shot is to an elevated 4 tiered green and here again club selection is important for good scoring. It's suggested to add one club to the second shot. There is a trap left rear of this green.
  Hole No. 17 is a 154-yard  par-3. This short hole is best played toward the opening in the front right of the green. Traps right, left and left rear of this green. A real large green if you are left and above the hole.
  Hole No. 18  is a 435-yard par-4 and again gives golfers one more long tee shot to reach the fairway 220-yards over a ravine. Trees on left are lateral water hazard. Your uphill second shot can reach this green with proper club selection and remember its uphill. Try to stay below the pin on this two-tiered green. Traps surround this green.   
  Additional photos of this great facility are at http://bght.blogspot.com   

                                                                  Tips & Outlook
                                                                Return Next Week  

  Due to the length of our lead story and added pictures, The Golf Tip, Putting Tip and Ed's Outlook are  not included in this week's column but will return next week.                                                  
                                                     
Ed's Outlook & this column are written by Ed Townsend, a consultant to the amateur-professional sport of golf and to several golf writers associations. If you have a topic that would make good reading, or have golf scores, standings or tournament information, Ed can be reached by phone at 845-439-8177,  via e-mail at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com and by fax at 845-205-4474. Visit us on our web site at http://bght.blogspot.com. We are also on Facebook.   

     














                                                                            
IDENTIFICATION OF ABOVE PHOTOS

She didn't give us driving or putting instructions but "Bambi" was very friendly as we teed off on the fifth tee at Woodoch Springs. 

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Woodloch Springs Head PGA Golf Professional Jared Cottell shared this photo opportunity with Sullivan County Golfers, from the left, Golfing Highlights Columnist Ed Townsend, Cottell, Dean Winters, Charles Winters and George Labouseur. 

                                                                             
Woodloch's "Signature Hole" No. 14 features this Hells Gates Gorge and requires some accurate shots to the green.

Beverage-cart girl at Woodloch Springs is Alicia Manzione.

The Woodloch Springs Pro-Shop-Golf Retail Associate Eileen Pillar and Head Golf Professional Jared Cottell.  A very attractive pro-shop with lots of choices.