We’re branching out this year

We’re branching out this yearTo date we have had golf outings in Nevada and California. I figured it was time to broaden our horizons and travel to a new state. So how about venturing out to Arizona? We will be heading to the Grand Canyon State, wherein resides the motto: Ditat Deus (God Enriches). More specifically, we’re going to the Scottsdale area. To be a little more precise, we are going to celebrate our 8th annual golf outing east of Scottsdale in the McDowell Mountains region near Fountain Hills. Just a short 30 minute drive east of the Scottsdale Airport is this exceptional golfing area. Within a small radius of each other are five golfing establishments and an Indian Resort Casino as well. It was tough choosing only two, but as in the past, I believe you will find the two selected are both scenic and challenging. March was selected due to moderate temperatures and the opportunity to catch a Spring Training Baseball game or two (be sure to book those early as tickets go fast).

Golf Date: Sunday – March 23, 2014 Monday – March 24, 2014Place: We-Ko-Pa Golf Club SunRidge Canyon Golf Club

Cholla Course SunRidge Canyon CourseFirst Tee Time: 9:30 AM 9:30 AM

Fountain Hills and the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation are home to the highest concentration of world-class golf in all of Arizona. All of the golf courses feature the most amazing vistas you can find anywhere. The Sonoran Desert Golf Trail features spectacular desert golf courses set in Arizona's lush desert environment with some of the Southwest's most unspoiled vistas. The courses are surrounded by breathtaking views of the McDowell Mountains and the Tonto National Forest.

Open since December 2001, the Cholla course at We-Ko-Pa has garnered countless honors and has quickly become recognized as the reference course for quintessential desert golf. We-Ko-Pa is the Yavapai pronunciation for “Four Peaks Mountain.” Designed by Scott Miller, this 7,225 yard layout was named by Sports Illustrated as one of the 10 Best New Public Courses in the World shortly after its debut. Since then, Zagat Survey 2006-2007 gives Cholla its highest rating among all Arizona courses and Golfweek ranks the layout #2 on its 2009, 2010 and 2011 list of Arizona's Best Public Courses. The facility is complimented by a 21,000 square foot clubhouse that features a golf shop named four consecutive years as one of the "Top 100 Best Golf Shops" by Golf World Business magazine as well as a full service restaurant serving breakfast and lunch indoors or on the spacious patio with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, Golfweek ranked Cholla the #38 Best Resort Course in the U.S.

Located minutes from Scottsdale in the rugged McDowell Mountains of Fountain Hills, Mother Nature should receive part of the credit for the breathtaking layout at SunRidge Canyon Golf Club in Fountain Hills. Not to take away from Keith Foster's astonishing design, but the championship course that winds down and back up the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, nestled between the canyon walls, is expertly placed like the missing piece to a beautiful golf course puzzle that evolved over millions of years in the Sonoran Desert. The final picture includes spell-binding views of nature in its natural form intertwined with pristine fairways rolling around strategically placed hazards to undulating greens, all the while allowing the Sonoran Desert to provide a natural border. The final six holes are appropriately dubbed the "Wicked Six" for its difficult climb up the canyon, and fierce winds that normally flow against the golfers, creating a finish few can, or want to, forget. SunRidge Canyon was rated No. 42 in Golf Magazine's "Top 100 Course You Can Play in the United States."

Getaway GangGetaway GangGolf Golf

OutingOuting

Here is the plan. As was the case in previous years, Saturday (3/22/14) most likely will be utilized as a travel day. The first day of golf has been scheduled for the Cholla Course at We-Ko-Pa Golf Club on Sunday (3/23/14), with our second day of golf taking place at the SunRidge Canyon Golf Club on Monday (3/24/14). Tuesday (4/8/14) will probably be the return day for most of you. Feel free to add additional days to catch a Spring Training Baseball game (or two) or even and extra round of golf.

Cost associated with this trip:Three nights lodging at Radisson Fort McDowell Resort: $105 per person/per night (Double occupancy)One round of golf at We-Ko-Pa Golf Club: $200One round of golf at Eagle Mountain Golf Club: $140Travel: You’re on your ownGolf fees for both days: $340Golf fees (both days) and hotel (Radisson 3 nights) totals: $665 per person Transportation, meals and adult beverage costs: You decide

If you are looking to save some money, you might consider a different hotel. There are not a lot of other choices in the immediate area as we are about 30 miles northwest of Scottsdale, but there is a Holiday Inn and a Comfort Inn in Fountain Hills that have a cheaper rate. Another option is to find a less expensive hotel in the Scottsdale area and make the drive out to the golf courses each morning

This year as in the past, group dinners are planned. I have selected two options, The first dinner social will be at the All American Sports Grille in downtown Fountain Hills (near the fountain) on Sunday evening and at the Blue Adobe Santa Fe Grille in Central Scottsdale on Monday evening.

If you have any questions, feel free to inquire,Lad MeairsEmail: [email protected] (home) or [email protected] (work)Phones: (925) 978-0170 (home) – (925) 829-8615 ext 330 (work) – (925) 813-2465 (cell)

If you are playing both courses, the total will be $340.00 Mail checks to: Lad Meairs

1254 Mokelumne Court Antioch, CA 94531

SunRidge Canyon Golf Club13100 N. SunRidge DriveFountain Hills, AZ 85268 Phone: (480) 837-5100: (480) 837-5100

We-Ko-Pa Golf Club18200 East Toh Vee CircleFort McDowell, AZ, 85264 Phone: (480) 836-9000

Website:

Place: We-Ko-Pa Golf Club Date: Sunday – March 23, 2014 Course: The Cholla Course Tee Time: 9:30 AM (first group)Location: Fountain Hills, Arizona Price $200.00 (Northeast of Scottsdale)Located on the eastern edge of Scottsdale on land owned by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation,

We-Ko-Pa (Yavapai for “ Four Peaks”) Golf Club - Cholla Course is an incredible layout featuring jaw-dropping views on every shot. Opened in December 2001, this championship Scott Miller desert design is among the best conditioned courses in Arizona, with immaculate green fairways, perfectly sculpted sand bunkers, aesthetically pleasing tee areas and quick, true-rolling greens. Natural serenity abounds, as no homes, roads or commercial developments mar the picture perfect setting - nor will they ever.  This 7,225 yard layout was named by Sports Illustrated as one of the 10 best new public courses in the world shortly after its debut. It has also been named #2 public access course in Arizona - Golf Week's America's Best 2006. 2006-07 Zagat Survey of America's Top Golf Courses: Highest overall course rating in Arizona. Voted #1 Public Course - Phoenix/Scottsdale by local PGA Professionals - Desert Golf Magazine - October/November 2003. Located adjacent to Scottsdale and Fountain Hills on land owned by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, We-Ko-Pa is routed through unspoiled Sonoran desert, free from residential or commercial real estate development.  In fact, there is not even an out-of-bounds stake to be found on this pristine course, where endless mountain vistas provide the backdrop. On first impression the layout may look intimidating. Though you are constantly surrounded by desert, there is often more landing area than it seems. A great variety of shot selections will keep you on your toes, as there is a good mix of straight holes and doglegs, and of easy and challenging green complexes. On the toughest holes there is often a fair amount of "bail out" area for those not wishing to push their luck. The incredible desert and mountain views, along with top-notch service and amenities make this course a pleasure to play. The 4 sets of tee boxes, measuring 7225, 6740, 6114 and 5289 yards, accommodate the skill levels of a wide spectrum of abilities. It is as picturesque a layout as you will find in Arizona. GOLF Magazine lists We-Ko-Pa at #38 on its 2004-2005 list of the Top 100 Courses You Can Play in the U.S.A. 

www.wekopa.com

Place: SunRidge Canyon Golf Club Date: Monday – March 24, 2014 Course: SunRidge Canyon Course Tee Time: 9:30 AM (first group)Location: Fountain Hills, Arizona Price $140.00 (Northeast of Scottsdale)

Website:http://sunridgegolf.com/

SunRidge Canyon's 6,823-yard, par-71, Keith Foster-designed golf course unfolds around the rugged ridges and shady canyons unique to the desert mountains that divide Fountain Hills from Scottsdale, Arizona. The golf course gradually descends on the way out before doubling back to climb up the slope on the way in. This subtle elevation change lies at the heart of the dramatic golf experience at SunRidge Canyon. Golfers also discover that it wasn't so much created by a bulldozer as it was carved out over eons by the relentless pressure of wind and water. Foster had the good sense to follow Mother Nature's lead, and in the end, the beauty and challenge of SunRidge Canyon is unlike any other desert golf experience in the Valley of the Sun. The complimentary grass range is quite expansive, with target greens, and a putting green and short game practice area are adjacent. At "tee time" golfers are greeted by a friendly ranger who provides info on the intricacies off the course. Pin placement sheets are also provided. For first time visitors the 150-yard stakes on the par fours and fives are especially helpful as targets, and can certainly save some strokes. The topography at SunRidge is quite rolling, with mounded fairways and large green complexes that feature strategic bunkering and gentle undulations. The desert and surrounding mountains are always in view. Carries over desert areas are frequent from the back tees, though most are quite short. Sufficient landing areas are the rule rather than the exception, and the front tees are user-friendly, with the exception of some forced carries on the par threes. The 4 sets of tee boxes are beautifully sculpted on each hole, and measure from 6823 to 5122 yards. The back and middle tees play between 6403 and 5944. The slope rating varies from 142 to 128, allowing golfers an opportunity to choose their medicine, and make to their day as challenging or as docile as they desire. The layout at SunRidge Canyon unfolds slowly, and becomes more dramatic as the round progresses. Many of the middle and certainly the closing holes present awe-inspiring vistas, as the fairways meander into box canyons and over and around arroyos towards greens that are defined by age-old stands of mesquite, ironwood and palo trees.

The Radisson Fort McDowell Resort is adjacent to Fort McDowell Casino. Try your luck at live keno, live bingo, card games and slot machines. We feature no-limit poker tournaments each day.

Room RatesSaturday Night (3/22/14 )– $210Saturday Night (3/22/14 )– $210Sunday Night (3/23/14) – $210Sunday Night (3/23/14) – $210Monday Night (3/24/14) – $210Monday Night (3/24/14) – $210

10438 N Fort McDowell Rd, Scottsdale, AZ, 85264

866-539-0036

The Radisson Fort McDowell Resort is adjacent to Fort McDowell Casino. Try your luck at live keno, live bingo, card games and slot machines. We feature no-limit poker tournaments each day.

Experience the "Adventurous Side of Scottsdale," at the Radisson Fort McDowell Resort. The Four Diamond resort destination boasts stunning mountain ranges, captivating sunsets, and colorful desert landscapes. Enjoy exceptional onsite dining at the Ahnala Restaurant and Lounge, offering a wide selection of contemporary Southwestern dishes cooked on an authentic mesquite grill. For more dining options head to the 24-hour Fort McDowell Casino featuring eight different restaurants. Be pampered at the Amethyst Spa & Boutique where you can unwind and indulge in a variety of massages, facials, and salon services. After a day at the spa, relax and enjoy our outdoor heated pools and whirlpools, offering incredible mountain views. We offer championship golf at the We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, featuring two of the best golf courses in Arizona along with spectacular views of the McDowell Mountains, Red Mountain, Four Peaks, and Superstition Mountains. Radisson Fort McDowell is your ultimate destination choice where adventure, luxury, and fun await you!Features: Radisson Fort McDowell Resort-Casino has a golf course, an outdoor pool, a spa tub, and a fitness facility. The onsite spa at this 4-star property offers massage and treatment rooms and beauty services. Radisson Fort McDowell Resort-Casino has a restaurant, a bar/lounge, and a poolside bar. 24-hour room service is available. Guestrooms: Amenities featured in guestrooms include air conditioning, coffee/tea makers, and minibars. In addition, amenities available on request include a turndown service, hypo-allergenic bedding, and wake-up calls. Guestrooms have cable television with premium TV channels, HBO, and pay movies. Business-friendly amenities include multi-line phones, desks, and direct-dial phones. Complimentary bottled water is provided. Guestroom beds have Select Comfort mattresses. All guestrooms provide complimentary bottled water. Bathrooms feature shower/tub combinations, scales, and bathrobes. Guestroom services include housekeeping.

Hotel Rating Rate (Avg per night)CopperWynd Resort and Club **** $ 250Courtyard by Marriott – Scottsdale/Mayo *** $ 175Inn at Eagle Mountain – Fountain Hills *** $ 165Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites – Fountain Hills *** $ 130Comfort Inn – Fountain Hills ** $ 125

Here is a sampling of the Hotels in the Fountain Hills / Scottsdale area (during the dates of March 22, 2014 – March 24, 2014). This data was collected off the Travelocity site. Rate is an average for the three nights (Saturday will obviously be more expensive, with Sunday and Monday being cheaper)

Inn at Eagle Mountain – Fountain Hills

All American Sports Grill is a unique and memorable experience with exceptional chef prepared food, friendly and attentive service, first-rate, unforgettable live musical performances, and the best setting for sports viewing with breathtaking views of the world famous Fountain at Fountain Park and the Superstition mountains.Not your typical sports bar & grill but so much more. Serving classic bar favorites like buffalo wings to new favorites like crab cakes, buffalo shrimp and kicked up mussels to signature salads, pizzas, burgers, wraps, and irresistible entree selections prepared by our chefs using the freshest ingredients available. A select wine list and beers on tap are sure to please, as is the extensive bar with weekly drink specials and brand promotions. All American Sports Grill has a unique take on comfortable, casual dining; provide exceptional food prepared by our chefs to make your experience unique and memorable. From our signature ‘OMG’ sandwich and pizza to our in-house smoked dishes, such as BBQ ribs served with our sensational home-made sauces.

SundaySunday Evening – Dinner Social –Evening – Dinner Social – March 23, 2014March 23, 2014

Monday Evening – Dinner Social – March 24, 2014Monday Evening – Dinner Social – March 24, 2014

www.allamericansportsgrill-az.com/

All American Sports Grille – Casual dining at the world-famous fountainAll American Sports Grille16872 East Ave of the Fountain Fountain Hills, AZ 85268Phone: (480) 816-4625

The Fountain & Fountain ParkThe iconic fountain is the centerpiece of the 64-acre Fountain Park. At its full height of 560 feet, the Fountain is higher than the Washington Monument. It is also 10 feet taller than Notre Dame Cathedral, 110 feet higher than the Great Pyramid of Cheops in Egypt and three times as high as Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone Park. It has been hailed as The World’s tallest fountain. Since the Fountain first went into operation on December 15, 1970 it has been visited by thousands of people from all over the world. The Fountain operates each hour on the hour for 15 minutes from 9am – 9pm each day.

Happy Hour - Daily3:00 – 6:00 PM

Blue Adobe Santa Fe Grille10885 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd

Scottsdale, AZ 85259Phone: (480) 314-0550

www.blueadobegrille.com/

Blue Adobe was founded by Chef/Owner Jose Leyva. Chef Leyva's ability to deliver spice while maintaining incredible flavor separates this restaurant from the rest. This simultaneous combination is referred to as "A Flavorful Spice". Chef Leyva's New Mexican Masterpieces will ruin you for Traditional Mexican Food in Scottsdale. What makes them better than traditional Scottsdale Mexican Restaurants? Their Fire Wood Grille uses Pecan Wood and their Chilies are Hatch, Hatch, Hatch! They also serve indigenous "New" Mexican Cuisine like Stacked Enchiladas, Red Chile Pork Posole, Carne Adovada, Soppapillas, in addition to Mexican Favorites. Lastly, everything is made in house accept for the Ketchup. The Heinz Family recipe is hard to beat. They always tell their inquiring guests that the Blue Adobe "Santa Fe" Grille is like An American Grill in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Great Pizza, Pasta, Salads, Steaks and Sandwiches influenced by the Enchantment of New Mexico.

How about a little How about a little Frisbee Golf Frisbee Golf

Attractions in the Fountain Hills AreaAttractions in the Fountain Hills Area

http://www.fortmcdowelladventures.com/http://fortmcdowelldestination.com/lp-fort-mcdowell-adventures.php

Fort McDowell AdventuresFort McDowell Adventures

Located on 25,000 acres of private land, Fort McDowell Adventures is the perfect location for group activities, special events or a fun Arizona adventure. From horseback riding through the Verde River to city slicker cattle drives, you will discover a wide variety of fun things to do in Scottsdale. Fort McDowell Adventures activities include: Hiking, kayaking, trail rides, Hay rides, Jeep tours, cattle drives. Dinner options include anything from a cowboy cookout to a sit-down Southwestern-themed dining under the stars

http://phoenix.about.com/cs/cityattract/a/fhillsattract01.htmhttp://www.fountainhillsguide.com/attractions/fountain-hills-az-attractions-main.aspxhttp://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g31227-Activities-Fountain_Hills_Arizona.html

Links for “Things To Do” in the Fountain Hills AreaLinks for “Things To Do” in the Fountain Hills Area