Monday, December 17, 2018

Product Review: Tipsy Elves Ugly Christmas Sweaters

I've been told that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. True, I suppose. But how can we all agree when something ugly is truly beautiful? When it's an Ugly Christmas Sweater from Tipsy Elves.

Check out this Golfing Santa. It's one of MANY Ugly Holiday Sweaters offered by Tipsy Elves. Whether you like drunken references or sexual innuendo, Tipsy Elves has you covered.

Don't celebrate Christmas? Hanukkah is more of your thing? Tipsy Elves celebrates the eight days, as well.

If sweaters are a bit too casual for your party, check out Tipsy Elves' suits and sport coats.

Ladies and kids ... Choose flaunt your style, too.

That's just the holidays. Tipsy Elves offers Hawaiian shirts, ski suits, Pride gear and the best, damn Halloween costumes you'll ever find.

Log onto tipsyelves.com to start shopping today. Warning: This website can be an insane time drain with all the cool apparel.

Sunday, December 16, 2018

The Fast Track to the 2018 Winner's Circle: New TS Drivers and Fairway Metals

(RELEASE) - When Titleist Brand Ambassadors Brian Harman and Patton Kizzire won the QBE Shootout this past weekend, they both had a long game advantage in the bag - new Titleist TS metals. The result of a two-year Titleist R&D mission, the Titleist Speed (TS) Project deconstructed the driver and fairway metal and then rebuilt them both from scratch, designing greater speed into every detail. Harman and Kizzire certainly reaped the benefits in Naples, recording 27 birdies and three eagles on their way to a winning score of 30-under-par 186.

The Tour introduction of TS drivers took place on the toughest stage in golf, the 2018 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club. Shinnecock was chosen deliberately, for what better test could Titleist R&D devise to validate the performance of the new TS than the unforgiving demands and pressure of a U.S. Open layout? And with so much at stake, 17 players (40% of players using Titleist drivers) put the new TS drivers immediately in play, an unprecedented shift for the week of a major championship.

Since that initial seeding and validation process (TS fairway metals debuted two weeks later at the Quicken Loans National), players relying on TS metals have captured 22 titles across the worldwide professional golf tours. In that brief span, over 150 players have made the switch to TS and as Josh Talge, Vice President of Marketing for Titleist Clubs told us, this early success and adoption by the world's best players is no surprise, given the performance that these new products deliver.

“From start to finish, the TS Project was about driving ball speed and unlocking a level of performance that golfers simply couldn’t ignore,” Talge said. "We know performance is the story that golfers care about. From the ball speed and distance gains we’re seeing, both on tour and with amateur golfers, it’s clear that TS metals deliver a new level of Titleist Speed.”

TS METALS HIGHLIGHTS:
- In June, Michael Kim (TS2 10.5°) became the first player to post a victory with the new Titleist TS driver, winning the John Deere Classic by a record eight shots. For the tournament, Kim averaged five yards more off the tee (294.8) and was nearly 30 percentage points (82.14%) higher in driving accuracy compared to his 2017-18 season averages.

- At the 2018 Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship, the opening event of the Web.com Tour Finals, both Robert Streb and Peter Malnati punched their 2018-2019 PGA Tour cards with TS drivers and fairways in the bag. Finishing 1-2, Streb (TS2 9.5°, TS3 15°) topped Malnati (TS2 9.5°, 13.5°) on the first hole of a playoff.

- In early August Justin Thomas earned his first World Golf Championships title with a four-shot victory at Firestone, crediting the performance gains of his TS3 9.5° driver and TS3 15° fairway.

“The new TS driver was instantly faster," Thomas said, "and I was able to get a few more yards carry when needed. More importantly for me, my spin numbers were more consistent, so it has helped me drive the ball much better. The fairway metal, too, has gone up in spin, which gives me more control. And I can easily fly it 280-285 off the tee if needed, which is such a great asset to have.”

The long list of players who have added TS metals to their bags includes: Adam Scott (TS3 10.5°), Bill Haas (TS2 9.5°, 15°, 18°), Jimmy Walker (TS3 8.5°, 13.5°), Brian Harman (TS2 13.5°), Cameron Smith (TS2 9.5°, 15°), Byeong-Hun An (TS3 9.5°), Charley Hoffman (TS3 9.5°), Ian Poulter (TS3 9.5°), Rafa Cabrera Bello (TS3 9.5°), Webb Simpson (TS3 10.5°), Chesson Hadley (TS2 10.5°, TS3 16.5°), Peter Uihlein (TS3 9.5°, TS2 15°) and Patton Kizzire (TS3 10.5°).

Saturday, December 15, 2018

Currie Golf Courses (Midland, MI) Votes to Retain Billy Casper Golf

(RELEASE) - Billy Casper Golf (BCG) – the innovative manager of golf courses, country clubs and resorts – was unanimously approved to continue operating Currie Golf Courses in Midland, Mich.

The Midland City Council voted on BCG’s extension for its three distinct layouts – Currie West (18 holes), Currie East (nine holes) and a par 3 course.  BCG oversees clubhouse operations, property maintenance, marketing and sales, staffing and training, food-and-beverage, financial management and other functions.

Over the past five years, BCG has significantly reduced Currie’s operating deficit, enhanced course conditions and grown junior programming.  Next year, it is expected to become a regional First Tee host location.

Currie has also solidified its status as a venerable tournament venue. In 2015, it unveiled a new driving range that will be put to good use next summer when Currie will serve as the host practice facility for the LPGA’s Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational. This past July, Currie West hosted a U.S. Amateur Qualifier.

“Billy Casper Golf has been an excellent business partner over the past five years,” says David Keenan, Assistant City Manager, City of Midland. “The vast experience and positive track record they bring to the relationship has enabled the City to achieve many of its financial and operational goals.”

“We’re proud of the way the Billy Casper Golf team has improved course conditions and service standards at Currie,” says Nick Bednar, Vice President of Operations at BCG. “This has anchored our ability to raise Currie’s profile in mid-Michigan and attract new players in droves.”

More information: www.curriegolf.com, 989.839.9600 and www.billycaspergolf.com, 703.761.1444.

Product Review: Titleist AVX and Tour Soft Golf Balls

This Christmas, don't wrap an ugly tie Dad will never wear. Give him something he'll use and love ... golf balls.

Titleist has been the "#1 ball in golf" for as long as I can remember. That's a good place to start (and finish). The company introduced a pair of new models in 2018, too.

Most recently, the Massachusetts giant unveiled the AVX. Basically, the AVX is Titleist’s lowest flying ball. It also spins less and is softer than both the Pro V1 and Pro V1x.

Earlier in the year, Titleist brought the Tour Soft to market. The Tour Soft is the softest-feeling golf ball in its category and delivers an incredible performance experience. Tour Soft’s innovative design combines the largest core ever engineered into a Titleist golf ball with ultra-thin cover technology to provide responsive feel, very fast speed for commanding distance and excellent short game performance.

The AVX retails for $47.99, while the Tour Soft goes for $34.99. More tech detail below:

Titleist AVX
* AVX utilizes innovative, high speed, low compression core technology, resulting in a powerful engine to drive remarkable distance with exceptionally soft feel.

* The proprietary GRN41 cast thermoset urethane cover delivers premium scoring control with exceptionally soft feel and long lasting durability.

* The high flex casing layer enhances speed and controls spin to promote even greater distance.

* The unique spherically-tiled 352 tetrahedral catenary aerodynamic design delivers optimal and consistent flight on all shots.

Titlelst Tour Soft
* The largest Titleist core ever produces category-leading soft feel and high ball speed for commanding distance. In developing Tour Soft’s core, the Titleist Golf Ball R&D and Operations teams were challenged to surpass previously accepted core size limitations in order to produce a golf ball that feels better and is as long or longer than the competition.

* A new ultra-thin 4CE grafted cover made with TCU Process Technology generates advanced short game control. Innovations in the manufacturing process at Titleist Ball Plant 2 in Massachusetts allowed engineers to mold the extremely thin, very soft cover formulation – made from a proprietary blend of four different materials – uniformly across the surface.

* A new spherically-tiled 342 cuboctahedron dimple design, optimized for the new Tour Soft construction, delivers a penetrating trajectory and consistent flight.

* Tour Soft is available in both white and high-optic yellow.

Log onto titleist.com or visit any reputable golf retailer to load your sleigh today.

Friday, December 14, 2018

PGA Golf Club Unveils Holiday Promotions at PGA Learning Center

(PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla.) – PGA Golf Club – the PGA of America’s premier 54-hole property – unveils its holiday promotions for the PGA Learning Center that include reduced fees when donating to Toys for Tots.

Through Dec. 31, guests of the PGA Learning Center who bring an unwrapped toy ($10 value or more) for Toys for Tots will receive 30 percent off the daily access fee. Blackout dates may apply.

The PGA Learning Center is also selling gift cards – the ultimate “game improvement” gift for golfers – that are valid for instruction, equipment, fittings and merchandise. Those can be purchased by visiting the PGA Learning Center or online at www.pgalearningcenter.com.

The state-of-the-art PGA Learning Center is home to the PGA of America Golf Schools, which employs innovative educational techniques and advanced game analysis technology from an elite group of PGA Professional instructors. Starting at $499, PGA of America Golf Schools offer half-day or one-, two- or three-day programs.

“Our holiday promotions not only make great gifts for golfers on your list, they also ensure children in the community have a holiday season to remember,” says Jeremy Wiernasz, General Manager. “As the only practice facility in the area, the PGA Learning Center is a spectacular venue for golfers of all ages to hone their game.”

Known as the “Ultimate Golf Resort Destination,” PGA Golf Club is home to three distinct golf courses – Wanamaker, Ryder and Dye – designed by renowned architects Tom Fazio, Jim Fazio and Pete Dye.

The Wanamaker Course ranked 18th in Golfweek’s 2018 “Best: State-by-State Courses You Can Play” rankings, while the Dye Course rose to 22nd – making PGA Golf Club one of only a handful of properties with two layouts on the respected list. The Ryder Course reopened late 2017 to rave reviews following a renovation project that enhanced the greens and surrounding areas.

A string of awards and accolades were bestowed upon PGA Golf Club in 2018. The club was the first organization to receive the Economic Development Council (EDC) of St. Lucie County’s Leadership Recognition Award. Also, PGA Head Golf Professional Holly Taylor was named the Merchandiser of the Year in the Resort Category by the Southeast Chapter of the South Florida PGA Section, and the Association of Golf Merchandisers recognized PGA Golf Club’s golf shop with its Platinum Award. PGA Golf Club’s Taplow Pub was named among the best eateries on the Treasure Coast by Indian River Magazine, and the Golf Range Association of America named the PGA Learning Center a “Top 50 Range” for the 17th consecutive year.

PGA Golf Club also offers attractive membership opportunities at competitive pricing, including a six-month Premier Seasonal Membership with limited spots available. Members will enjoy private member dining, food and beverage discounts at the 1916 Bar and Grille inside the newly renovated and expanded clubhouse, member merchandise discounts in the golf shop – all with no assessments or F&B minimums.

To learn more about PGA Golf Club, visit www.pgavillage.com.

Q Life: The Art of Fine Living at Quivira Los Cabos

New lifestyle club fosters memorable experiences with well-rounded lineup of activities

(Los Cabos, Mexico) – An all-embracing club created exclusively for residents of Quivira Los Cabos, the recently launched Q Life defines a lifestyle that goes far beyond the ownership of a home or condominium at Cabo’s premier residential community. With its synergistic approach and wide array of themed programs, Q Life inspires residents to seek new ways to enjoy a healthy, fulfilling lifestyle, inspiring physical, cultural, social, and intellectual wellness by weaving together nature, individual pursuits, and group well-being.

Situated at the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula, a sun-drenched locale known for its extraordinary desert setting at the place where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, Quivira’s serendipitous location is ideal for the goals and objectives of Q Life.

“The real beauty of Quivira comes from living life at your own pace,” said Taber Anderson, Managing Director of Quivira Los Cabos. “We want people to put down roots and truly enjoy their time here. By celebrating the art of living well, supporting and encouraging local and regional providers, and seeking the company of those who share common values, members can transform minutes into unforgettable moments.”

According to Yessica Rintflaich, Leisure & Experiences Director at Quivira Los Cabos, “The Q Life’s collection of amenities and services make residents feel like they’re part of a vibrant community. It’s really wonderful seeing members make new friends through shared activities.”

Q Life’s six themed Pillars—Healthy Living, Cultural Experiences, Flavors, Quivira Chillin’, Cool Club, and On Four Paws—enable residents to pursue a myriad array of passions and interests.

* Healthy Living provides the tools for relaxation, healthy nutrition, and a physically active lifestyle. Residents enjoy access to the award-winning Armonia Spa Collection at Pueblo Bonito resorts, yoga classes at secluded locations with magnificent scenic views, a state-of-the-art fitness center, plus a full schedule of daily activities, from water aerobics and hiking to power walks and mountain biking on an extensive network of marked trails throughout the community.
* Cultural Experiences promotes experiences that allow residents to broaden their horizons and acquire a new appreciation for culture, starting with itinerant visual art exhibitions by rising national artists. “Learning by doing” guitar lessons, with the accent on regional songs and music, are available, as are lessons in visual arts, including painting, ceramics, and photography. Spanish lessons are also available.
* Flavors Pillar welcomes members and guests to savor all aspects of cultural cuisine, including how to appreciate the taste of fine dishes and wines, and lessons in cooking and nutrition.  Q Life’s Wine Club, guided by the resort community’s top sommeliers, offers tastings as well as cuisine pairing suggestions.
* Chillin’ Pillar creates spaces and social activities designed to promote interaction between members of the Quivira community, encouraging shared experiences. For example, owner cocktail parties are typically held every week during high season, while on-shore fishing is a great way to experience the dramatic scenery of Quivira’s privileged location. Residents also enjoy exclusive access to the private, members-only course at Quivira Golf Club, a spectacular Jack Nicklaus Signature design recently voted to Golf Digest’s “World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses” roster.
* Cool Club Pillar provides a safe and stimulating environment for children. Among the fun, educational activities available are golf lessons for kids & teens (ages 6-16) In addition, the Kids Club at Sunset Beach features arts and crafts, board games, while the Fun Lab offers arcade games, video games, pool games, movies, and more.
* On Four Paws Pillar gives the community’s four-legged companions the care they deserve. Walkers and trainers, water dispensers and waste disposal bins are located around the property, ensuring the well-being of members’ beloved pets. The guiding theme is simple: Tired dogs are calm dogs. Exercised dogs are healthy animals.

For additional information access the web site at www.quiviraloscabos.com or call +52 (624) 173 61 46 or toll free in the U.S. (866) 578-4847 or email info@quiviraloscabos.com to arrange a personal visit.

World Golf Village Introduces Seasonal Stay & Play Packages

(St. Augustine, Fla.) – The World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Fla. has launched its Winter and Spring Stay & Play Packages. These new golf vacation packages are designed for golf enthusiasts seeking a warm, sunny retreat to the Northeast Florida region.

The World Golf Village’s Stay & Play packages include green fees, cart fees, and range balls on the award-winning King & Bear and Slammer & Squire golf courses. The golf vacation packages also offer accommodations at the Renaissance Resort and breakfast daily at the Villagio at Renaissance Resort. Premium Callaway rental clubs and caddie services are available for additional fees with each package.

Train Like a Legend Package
The Train Like A Legend Package is for the golfer who wants to fine-tune their game during their golf getaway. This package provides three nights lodging, breakfast each morning, two days of lite training, which includes three hours of instruction per day at The PGA TOUR Golf Academy, one round of golf at each course and admission to the World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum and the IMAX Theater. Rates start at $508 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

Play-All-Day Package
The Play-All-Day Package is perfect for buddy groups and offers up to 36 holes on The Slammer & Squire and The King & Bear golf courses. The package also includes two nights lodging at the Renaissance Resort World Golf Village, and breakfast each morning, along with admission to the World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum and the IMAX Theater. Rates start at $440 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

The Hall of Fame Experience
The Hall of Fame Experience package is the ultimate golf vacation package for every golf enthusiast. This package includes four-nights accommodations, breakfast daily, one round on The King & Bear and The Slammer & Squire, one single club fitting for the club of your choice at The PGA TOUR Golf Academy, and admission to the World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum and the IMAX Theater. Rates start at $305 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

Florida’s First Coast Golf Package
Florida’s First Coast golf package offers guests three-nights accommodations, breakfast daily, one round on The King & Bear, one round on The Slammer & Squire, and a 90-minute tune-up at The PGA TOUR Golf Academy. It also includes admission to the World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum and the IMAX Theater. Rates start at $345 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

The seasonal golf packages are available through May 31, 2019. For more information or to book these packages visit, www.golfwgv.com or call 904-940-6088.

For additional news and information, visit www.Troon.com.