Island Resort & Casino Books National Acts for Island Showroom

Owned by the Hannahville Band of the Potawatomi Nation, Resort is Home to Brand New, Heralded Sweetgrass Golf Club

(HARRIS, Michigan) – The Island Resort & Casino – home to the brand new Sweetgrass Golf Club – today announces a series of national touring acts scheduled to headline the Island Showroom.

Kicking off the schedule will be the Oak Ridge Boys – long known for hits such as “Elvira,” “Bobbie Sue,” “Dream On” and “Thank God for Kids.” The four-part harmonies and upbeat songs kick off the holidays with the Oak Ridge Boys Christmas Celebration 2008. Shows are Dec. 12 through 14.

“We’re extremely excited to have the world-renowned Oak Ridge Boys headline the holiday season here at the Island Resort & Casino,” says General Manager Tom McChesney. “Guests have grown accustomed to seeing the finest touring acts in the country – such as Huey Lewis & the News, Martina McBride and the Blues Brothers – and that won’t stop. 2009 is already shaping up to be a banner year in the Island Showroom.”

January is highlighted by the appearance of Styx (Jan. 30 and 31), while February features Creedence Clearwater Revisited (Feb. 13 and 14) and March goes out like a lion with George Thorogood and The Destroyers (March 27 and 28). June will mark the return of actor/ comedian Brad Garrett (June 5 and 6).

“We cannot be more pleased to begin the year with such an explosive lineup of dynamic stars,” says Marketing Director Susan K. Harris. “Everyone is familiar with these groups. They’re some of the greatest rock artists ever and Brad Garrett is absolutely superb.”

A platinum recording group, Styx is known for familiar hits like “Lady,” “Come Sail Away” and “Blue Collar Man.” Their music possesses the full vocal and instrumental power that continues to draw new fans to their pure sounds.

With two original members, Creedence Clearwater Revisited is the latest chapter in a now four-decade long journey that began in the 60s with classics like “Suzie Q,” “Bad Moon Rising,” “Run Through the Jungle” and “Who’ll Stop the Rain.”

George Thorogood & The Destroyers, complete with 30-plus years of a hard-charging mix of rock-blues, have spawned such classics as “Bad to the Bone” and “Born to Be Bad.”

Emmy-award-winning actor Brad Garrett, perhaps best-known for his sitcom role on Everybody Loves Raymond, is also an award-winning stand-up comedian who got his start by winning the $100,000 first-place prize as Grand Champion comedian in 1984’s Star Search. That led to his first appearance on The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson and, eventually, to his appearing with such headliners as Diana Ross, Frank Sinatra and Smokey Robinson. Garret’s performances are for mature audiences only.

Owned and operated by the Hannahville Band of the Potawatomi Nation, the Island Resort & Casino has drawn international attention this summer with the introduction of Sweetgrass Golf Club.

Designer Paul Albanese honored Tribal legend throughout his design with such architectural features as an island green – which fit within the parameters of the land and jibed with the resort’s name – that pays homage to the turtle, a creature Indian legend holds in high esteem for its longevity and wisdom.

The course – outlined by wispy native grasses that wave in the breeze and defended by strategically positioned sand bunkers and water hazards – stretches to 7,300 yards from the tips, promising to challenge the best golfers, while the beginner-friendly forward tees measure a modest 5,000 yards. In all, five sets of tees accommodate golfers of all levels. Historic bridges “rescued” from around the region and beautifully crafted rockwork lend a unique look and feel to the design.

Located in the unspoiled beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the Island Resort & Casino and Sweetgrass Golf Club are easily accessible via a pair of regional airports in Escanaba and Marquette.

Tickets for shows (all shows 8 p.m. EST except the Friday George Thorogood show, which begins at 9 p.m.) can be purchased at the casino or by phone with credit card at 877-ISL-SHOW or 906-466-2941, ext. 5001.

For more information on the Island Showroom, the casino or Sweetgrass Golf Club, please visit www.islandresortandcasino.com or call 800-682-6040, ext. 2125.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Willow Crest Golf Club Earns Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Status

(ORLANDO, Fla.) - Marriott Golf announced that Willow Crest Golf Club at Oak Brook Hills Marriott Resort in Oak Brook, Ill., is the most recent property to achieve certification through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses. This marks the 17th Marriott Golf managed property to achieve Audubon Certification, as part of the Company's green initiatives. By the end of 2008, 25 managed golf properties in North America and the Caribbean will become Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries.

Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries, which enable golf facilities to protect the environment by enhancing precious natural areas and wildlife habitats, are part of a systemwide commitment by Marriott International, Inc.to promote environmental stewardship. In order to achieve Audubon Certification, a golf facility is required to demonstrate that it is maintaining the highest degree of environmental quality in several areas including Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.

As part of the property's environmental efforts to become certified, Willow Crest Golf Club converted 14 acres of manicured turf to natural, un-mowed environmentally sensitive areas, which included all banks along its lake edges. With the taller grasses and emerging plants, the banks have become stabilized and have reduced erosion and aquatic weeds, while connecting habitats. Additionally, the increase of shoreline species has provided nesting areas, shelter, and a food source for wildlife.

Further, the golf team at Willow Crest Golf Club partnered with students at the Westmont Junior High School for the Audubon Adopt-A-School program, which educates students on the importance of protecting and preserving the environment, at school and within their own communities. Willow Crest Golf Club also contributed to its certification process by building, installing, and monitoring several bird houses throughout the property.

Located on the 150-acre estate of Oak Brook Hills Marriott Resort, the Dick Nugent-designed course at Willow Crest Golf Club features gently rolling bent grass contoured fairways, quick rolling and well-bunkered greens, along with an abundance of water challenges. The par 70 golf course layout is very challenging, yet enjoyable for golfers of every skill level.

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat, and protect natural resources. Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, and Southeast Asia have achieved certification in the program.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Nike Announces Debut of Air Zoom TW 2009 Shoe

(BEAVERTON, Ore.) - Nike Golf athletes Stewart Cink, Bo Van Pelt and Ron Whittaker debuted Nike's Air Zoom TW 2009 shoe at the PGA Tour's Children's Miracle Network in Orlando, Fla. Tiger Woods, who has been absent from the PGA Tour since his dramatic victory at the U.S. Open because of a knee injury, is expected to wear the Air Zoom TW 2009 when he returns to competition in 2009.

Designed specifically to provide additional support where it is needed most, the Air Zoom TW 2009 is a Tour grade shoe that offers the luxury of leather with the built-in performance benefits of lighter and more durable materials. Working closely with the world's number one golfer Woods, the Air Zoom TW 2009 is the first shoe that combines leather and the unique Ballistic Mesh technology resulting in a sophisticated, luxurious and lightweight shoe.

One of the essential features of the Air Zoom TW 2009 is the lateral stabilizer located above the outsole, which prevents roll during weight transfer and provides ultimate balance and a more powerful swing. This lateral stabilizer is critical during the follow through of the golf swing, when weight is moved off of the center of the shoe's footbed and pressure is transferred to the upper part of the shoe - an area not normally designed to cope with such significant lateral forces, until now. Made from TPU, the lateral stabilizer works in harmony with the Ballistic Mesh panel to provide the ultimate in support without compromising comfort.

Lighter and more enduring than leather, the Ballistic Mesh will not stretch over the life of the shoe. This unparalleled material offers more support than leather. While being extremely breathable, the mesh is treated with Repel DuPont™ Teflon® brand finish that provides lasting stain and water resistance, ensuring dry feet no matter the weather conditions.

The Air Zoom TW 2009 also features Nike Golf's Tour-proven tri-density Nike Power Platform technology for maximum control, the responsive, low profile cushioning provided by Zoom Air technology, optimal traction from Champ's Scorpion Stinger spikes, and a 100% waterproof, yet breathable Sympatex membrane.

Air Zoom TW 2009
MSRP: $270
Colors: White/Gunmetal-Silver; Black/Met Silver; Baroque Brown/Bronze

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel Reopening Nears

(MAUNA KEA, Hawaii) - Following an extensive multi-million dollar restoration, The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel will reopen its doors on Dec. 20. The hotel originally opened in 1965.

"The 'Grand Dame' of the Big Island of Hawaii will continue to perpetuate the true Hawaiian traditions of aloha, coupled with the classic elegance of the Hawaiian Islands that it has been known for," says the resort's new General Manager, Jon Gersonde. "The goal of the restoration has been to update and refine The Mauna Kea's reputation as a sophisticated and intimate luxury beachfront resort. We are reopening with new luxurious accommodations and amenities of the highest caliber, a revitalized golf course with new clubhouse, and, of course, our signature tradition of excellent service."

Gersonde says the December 20 date represents a soft opening to ease the hotel back into operations after two years of being closed. "Many long-time Mauna Kea employees have been hired back and we should be up to speed pretty quickly," he said. A lavish formal Grand Opening will be celebrated in March 2009.

New amenities at The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel include a spa offering an array of exotic treatments; exciting new culinary experiences stewarded by Executive Chef George Gomes; and newly refurbished guest rooms. The total room and suite count has been reduced from 310 to 258 as a result of rooms being enlarged in the main building. Many of the resort's popular services and activities will also return, including the 13-court Seaside Tennis Club, the Salon at Mauna Kea, play-while-you-learn children's activities, Hawaiian cultural experiences, Art & Garden Tour, yoga and exercise classes, and the Beach at Kauna'oa Bay, offering enhanced beach services and cabanas.

When The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel originally opened, it was the most expensive hotel ever built in Hawaii at the time, at a cost of $15 million. Upon opening, it was the recipient of numerous accolades and awards from the traveling community and media. The American Institute of Architects recently placed the hotel on the list of 150 iconic structures nationwide recognized as "America's Favorite Architecture."

Mauna Kea's owners closed the hotel in December 2006, following an earthquake centered close to the Big Island. "The earthquake damage required us to close the hotel for a period of time, and we realized that it also presented an opportunity to conduct a comprehensive restoration of the property," stated Gersonde. "While the hotel's interiors have been redecorated, little changes have been made to its classic exterior architectural design that has been recognized throughout the world."

The renovation of The Mauna Kea updates American venture capitalist Laurance S. Rockefeller's vision of the resort he developed at the invitation of Hawaii's then Governor, William Quinn. Today, The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is the flagship property in the Prince Hotels and Resorts international portfolio.

The extensive multi-million dollar repair and refurbishment has focused primarily on freshening up guest rooms and suites, lobby, restaurants and common areas. Mr. Rockefeller's fabled world-class art collection from Hawaii and the Pacific Basin has also been lovingly restored.

In addition, the historic, world-famous Mauna Kea Golf Course has received a comprehensive upgrade and redesign to USGA standards by Rees Jones, son of the original course designer, Robert Trent Jones, Sr. The renovation includes a newly-constructed Clubhouse with Pro Shop, locker rooms and a restaurant, that will transform in the evenings into another dinner option for resort guests.

The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is currently taking reservations for stays beginning Dec. 20. Accommodations may be arranged through a preferred travel planner, or by calling Prince Resorts Hawaii Luxury Desk, 866-977-4589. For the latest updates and information, please visit www.maunakeapreview.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com.

The Territory Appoints Well-Regarded, New Executive Chef

Keith Zinke to Guide Esteemed Property’s Food & Beverage Operations; Hails from The Coach House – Oklahoma City’s finest upscale restaurant

(Southwest Oklahoma) – The Territory, an award-winning golf and residential community, today introduces Keith Zinke as the club’s Executive Chef. Zinke will head the food and beverage operations at The Territory’s Prairie House.

Zinke studied under Chef Kurt Fleischfresser of The Coach House – Oklahoma City’s finest upscale restaurant, receiving AAA Four Diamond Recognition since 2002.

“I join the professional and dedicated staff at The Territory with great pride and an eye toward providing a one-of-a-kind experience to our members and guests,” says Zinke. “Preparing incredible dishes has always been a passion of mine and I look forward to sharing that passion here at the Prairie House.”

The proprietor of a successful catering business in Oklahoma City, Zinke brings an unmatched enthusiasm and wealth of ideas to The Territory. According to Zinke, many of his dishes can be described as “comfort food with a fine-dining flare.”

Rick and Barbara Braught developed The Territory to introduce a casual yet elegant golf residential community to the region and Zinke’s hiring is an intricate piece to the overall puzzle.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Chef Keith into the fold here at The Territory,” says Rick Braught. “Not only is he a talented and gifted chef, but he’s also a devoted husband and father. We strive for a family friendly atmosphere and Keith epitomizes that belief.”

The Territory – recently recognized by Golfweek as a Top 50 Residential Golf Course in America for the second consecutive year – has been garnering national accolades since first opening its doors in 2004, including “Best New” by Golfweek and “Top 10 in Oklahoma” by Golf Digest.

A modified target-style design that unfolds over rolling hills and through fields of native vegetation, The Territory stretches to 7,100 yards from the tips and features five sets of tees, making it playable by all skill levels.

While The Territory is a private club, the Braughts recently opened the fairways to golfers looking to experience the course and luxurious amenities through a pair of stay-and-play homes with two spacious bedrooms, living room, full kitchen and bath. Rates include one round of golf per night’s stay, with additional rounds costing the current guest fee. The stay-and-play rates are:
Single: $275 per night
Double: $225 per night
Triple: $195 per night
Foursome: $175 per night

For more information on The Territory, call 580-475-0075 or visit www.territorygolf.com.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Crane's Landing Certified As New Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary

(ORLANDO, Fla.) - Marriott Golf announced that Crane's Landing Golf Club, in Lincolnshire, Ill., is the latest property to achieve certification through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses. This marks the 15th Marriott Golf managed property to achieve Audubon Certification, as part of the Company's green initiatives. By the end of 2008, 25 managed golf properties in North America and the Caribbean will become Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries.

Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries, which enable golf facilities to protect the environment by enhancing precious natural areas and wildlife habitats, are part of a systemwide commitment by Marriott International, Inc. (MAR:NYSE) to promote environmental stewardship. In order to achieve Audubon Certification, a golf facility is required to demonstrate that it is maintaining the highest degree of environmental quality in several areas including Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.

As part of the property's efforts to become Audubon Certified, Crane's Landing Golf Club created several naturalized areas, also known as "no mow" zones, which allow wildlife to grow around the area and cautions golfers and other guests at the resort to steer clear of walking or playing in these designated areas. In addition, informational posters have been placed throughout the property to educate guests and golfers on the importance of wildlife preservation at Crane's Landing Golf Club.

An 18-hole George Fazio design, the course at Crane's Landing Golf Club blends gracefully into the surrounding woods, and features bent grass tees, greens and fairways, as well as tightly bunkered greens and beautiful vistas of the Des Plaines River and surrounding woodlands. With scenic water on 14 holes, the course creates a challenging environment for golfers of all abilities.

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat, and protect natural resources. Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, and Southeast Asia have achieved certification in the program.

Contact: AmericanGolferBlog@gmail.com

Play Golf America Programs Still Going Strong after Five Years

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) - Play Golf America was launched in 2004 as an industry-wide marketing campaign designed to introduce people to golf, plus improve their ability to play and enjoy the game. As a result, millions of players nationwide have taken advantage of free and low-cost Play Golf America programs delivered by PGA and LPGA Professionals.

More than 3.4 million people have participated in group instruction at the grass-root level, for an average of 678,000 students per year over Play Golf America's five-year history. Branded Play Golf America programs have reached 1.28 million consumers since 2004 through participation in Play Golf America Days, special events and National Promotions such as PGA Free Fitting and Trade-Up Month, PGA Free Lesson Month, American Express Women's Golf Month and Family Golf Month with Take Your Daughter to the Course as its cornerstone. In addition, an average of 5.5 million golfers participated in leagues and outings per year during that same time frame.

"We are certainly excited that so many golfers, including families are taking advantage of the programs that Play Golf America offers," says PGA of America President Jim Remy. "Play Golf America provides fun, flexible, and affordable golf options for all, and the opportunity to get outdoors, spend time with family and friends, and experience this wonderful sport. PGA and LPGA Professionals continue to lead the way in making the game fun and enjoyable for everyone."

As the industry's leading player-development program, Play Golf America was developed by The PGA of America with the support of founding organizations including: the Ladies Professional Golfer's Association, National Golf Course Owners Association, PGA TOUR, United States Golf Association and other Golf 20/20 Conference participants.

Below are some of the program's highlights and record-setting numbers:
• 3.4 million consumers participated in group instruction, including lessons and clinics over the last five years
• 1.28 million consumers reached through branded National Promotions, Play Golf America Days and special events throughout the last five years
• A total of $69 million generated from group instruction revenues over the last three years (stats began in 2006)
• Since 2007, National Promotions have accounted for a $37.5 million impact to the golf economy over the last two years
• 40,000 unique programs have been promoted on PlayGolfAmerica.com throughout the past five years
• 7.3 billion media impressions were made with a value of $138 million in the last five years

The national player-development program is reaching consumers and bringing business to local golf facilities. It is projected that Play Golf America National Promotions, such as PGA Free Fitting & Trade-Up Month, PGA Free Lesson Month, American Express Women's Golf Month and Family Golf Month have accounted for a $20.7 million impact in 2008 and $16.8 million impact in 2007 to the golf economy. On the local level, program coordinators reported that hosting National Promotions generated a gain in their revenues. Based on 2008 surveys, host facilities generated combined median gains of $3,870 following Free Fitting & Trade-Up Month; $2,560 following Free Lesson Month, $3,320 following American Express Women's Golf Month and $4,740 following Family Golf Month.

More than 75 percent of new golfers report that one year after participating in a Play Golf America experience, they played an average of 17 rounds over that 12 month period spending $1,695 on golf-related items. Existing golfers reported playing 44 rounds per year, spending $3,559 on golf-related items.

Over the last five years, 235 Play Golf America Days have been held nationwide reaching more than 85,000 people. Of those participants, 36 percent were new or former golfers, 25 percent were women and 23 percent were minorities. These free golf festivals held at golf courses and ranges across the country feature PGA and LPGA Professional instruction, golf clinics, equipment demos, contests and other activities designed to introduce the game to new golfers and make existing players more excited about the game. Play Golf America Days expanded from just three events during its first year in 2004 to more than 90 events in 2008.

PlayGolfAmerica.com, the ultimate resource for new and occasional golfers to find free and affordable programs in their area, has seen an increase in visitor traffic each year with the 2008 calendar year projecting a 165 percent increase over the inaugural year (2004). In 2008, more than 4,600 facilities used PlayGolfAmerica.com to promote their player-development programs throughout the year, a 520 percent increase over the Play Golf America total in 2004. Over the five-year history, more than 40,000 unique programs have been promoted on www.PlayGolfAmerica.com.

Efforts to grow the popularity of golf among women are also paying off big for the game. It is projected that nearly 100,000 women participated in a variety of 2008 Play Golf America initiatives, including branded National Promotions, Play Golf America Days, special events and programs targeted specifically for women.

Play Golf America also had another strong year in terms of reaching consumers through public relations, advertising and promotions bringing the five-year total to 7.3 billion media impressions for a value of $138 million.

Established as a comprehensive marketing campaign in 2004, Play Golf America has evolved into a multi-dimensional initiative, including various programs, resources, and educational tools as well as a marketing campaign to increase participation among new and existing golfers. It has received continued support from Executive Women's Golf Association, Golf Range Owners Association of America, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, National Recreation and Park Association, Golf Course Builders Association, the International Association of Golf Administrators, and The First Tee.

The "Play Golf America Five-Year Report: 2004 to 2008", providing more details about this initiative, can be found at:www.playgolfamerica.com/index.cfm?action=2020

About The PGA of America
Since 1916, The PGA of America's mission has been twofold; to establish and elevate the standards of the profession and to grow interest and participation in the game of golf. By establishing and elevating the standards of the golf profession through world-class education, career services, marketing and research programs, the Association enables PGA Professionals to maximize their performance in their respective career paths and showcases them as experts in the game and in the $76 billion golf industry. By creating and delivering dramatic world-class championships and exciting and enjoyable golf promotions that are viewed as the best of their class in the golf industry, The PGA of America elevates the public's interest in the game, the desire to play more golf, and ensures accessibility to the game for everyone, everywhere. The PGA of America brand represents the very best in golf.