Conference 7.286::golf

       Do you think they might install cart path's and allow carts ?
    
    George

    	The article did not say but did say another 18 hole "executive"
    course is to be built next to the other two. The article also said
    that Pinecrest in Holliston will not be closed but was bought by
    the town and will remain open. Not a great course, but the more,
    the merrier{sp}.
    
    B. Lavner

	
	 (re .1)

	 That would   be   too   bad.   Golf  carts  are  an  abomination  -
	 particularly  when  they force you to rent them.  Golf was meant to
	 be  a walking sport.  The thought of driving a car on a golf course
	 is ludicrous!

	 -- Mr Litby

    Although I have played some golf courses that physically require
    a cart (with out it you'd be exhausted), I have to aggree that the
    sport is a walking sport. However an article a while back in either
    GOLF Digest or GOLF claimed that not TV, Nicklaus, Palmer, or the
    President of US (Eisenhower) we reponsible for the game's quantum
    leaps put the four wheeled, gas powered (or electric) machine.
    
    Actually without the cart my father could never play more than 9
    holes (bad knees). Give him credit though. He walks the front nine
    before surrendering to a cart
    
    Roger
    

    	Thank God somebody else will be running that course.
    I've only played 27 holes on the South and 18 holes on the North
    and thought both course were great.  But the one complaint I had
    was the hospitality eas terrible.  I went alone and was teed up
    with other players and they too said the same thing every time.
    The people running the course expected you to feel it was a priviledge
    to be playing on there course and you better put up with there crap
    whatever it was.  Even though, correct me if I'm wrong, you paid
    15.00 for 18 on the South, and 18.00 for 18 on the North.  Those
    are pretty steep rates compared to what I pay out here in western
    Mass.
    	I'll relate just one of the stories of the way they ran the
    course.  I was paired up with 3 guys to play the North course. 
    We were told, no 2-somes were allowed because of the number of people
    wanting to play this course.  We teed off, and were on our way.
    When we finished 9, there was a group teeing off on ten, so we decided
    to go up to the clubhouse and get a soda.  As we got there the starter
    asked us in a very unfriendly way, if we were going to be taking
    a long time.  I responded nicely, that we were just going to get
    a soda to go and get back to the 10th tee.  As we got back to the
    tee, a 2-some was coming off the 9th green.  The starter had told
    us no 2-somes were allowed.  Anyway, we decided to let the 2-some
    play thru to save them time.  They started to tee off when 2 other
    guys ran down to the tee and said the starter told them to go off
    with the 2-some that just teed off.  The origanal 2-some said that
    wasn't fair because we only let them play because they were only
    2 players and told us to tee off 1st.  The starter then came down
    and told us to wait for th other 2 players, that we shouldn't have
    let the original 2-some go ahead of us.  Now one of the guys I was
    playing with, asked the starter why he told us no 2-somes to begin
    with, and then why he was treating us the way he was.  He simply
    said, if you don't like it then get off the course.  You guys went
    up to the clubhouse and then you let the 2-some play thru so you
    forfieted your turn on the tee.  It's your fault, not mine.  Now
    play by our rules or don't play at all.
    	Well ever since then, I haven't played Stow, as much as I wanted
    to becuase the lay-out and condition of the course are great.
    	Let's hope the new management is a little more courteous.
    
                                            Paul W.

    With the Page brothers, the law of supply and demand is definitely
    in affect. They are acutely aware of the reputation of the course
    as "one of the top public courses in the U.S., and take full advantage
    of their situation. They really have the attitude of "take it or
    leave it". Their arrogance is unbelievable.
    
    The asking price is in the many megabuck range, and they will take
    no negotiations on it. "Take it or leave it"..... They wanted DEC
    to buy the place many years back, and were VERY offended when DEC
    declined.
    
    I also have a problem with their attitude toward women golfers.
    Women are made to feel unwelcome on weekends. I am one of the very
    fortunate guys who loves to share my enjoyment of the sport with
    my good lady, and we truly delight in our time together on the golf
    course. I would not bring her to Stow, and put her thru the
    aggravation.
    
    By the way, I live a mile from the course, and haven't played there
    in five years. It is known in local parlance as "Slow Acres".
    
    There are other courses which are not as elegant, but MUCH more
    fun and friendly.

	 (re .4) 
	
	 Sorry -  I  didn't  mean that people who actually NEED carts should
	 not be allowed to use them.  Of course, people who have to use them
	 for physical reasons (like your father) should be allowed to.  That
	 is the way it works here, by the way.

	 Re "making  the  game"  -  maybe the carts were responsible for the
	 _commercial_ upswing of the game in the U.S, since most public golf
	 courses  in  the  U.S  and  Canada  operate  for  profit.   I heard
	 somewhere  that the rental of carts alone stands for the major part
	 of  the  revenue for many courses.  Somehow, though, the thought of
	 using a CAR on a golf course doesn't quite make sense to me.

	 -- Mr Litby

    I agree that there is an inconsistency. I play golf to get outside,
    clear my mind and talk with God. Walking down a fairway as the sun
    is setting or rising (I prefer the rising) is very peaceful. A cart
    ruins the tranquility of the situation. However without them, the
    game wouldn't be what it is today. Golf carts like it or not have
    brought more people into the game. With more people came more golf
    courses and with more courses more opportunities for folks like
    like you and me to enjoy ourselves (most of the time).
    
    Roger
    

    (Re: previous)
    
    That's probably the case in the U.S, so I'd have to agree with you.
    Golf in Europe (apart from the British Isles) has not reached the
    same popularity as in the United States.
    
    I'm not sure, though, that I would like to have golf carts around
    (they are presently prohibited on most courses here) even if they
    help expand the game's popularity.
    
    -- Mr Litby

Let me start by saying that I agree with all that stuff about the peacefulness
of walking on the course and watching the sun rise/set and all that stuff,
and that carts take that element away from the sport, but haven't you ever
been with someone and said "Hey, let's go play 18." The response is "Sure
I'd like to, but we only have 2 1/2 hours." ANSWER: The Golf Cart.

My brother and I have played on many occasions when it would be dark in
2 1/2 hours or we had to be somewhere in 2 1/2 hours, but we were still
able to play a quick 18 via the cart.  I guess it precludes this to say
that the course is empty and the cart isn't going to break your pocket book.

I agree with all that peaceful stuff, but doesn't anyone else grab the chance
to play just for the sake of playing golf too?  The cart can be very handy.

    I was waiting for someone to say that. Actually I must confess that
    on occassions I will use a cart, but I never do it to play a fast
    round. I have played 9 holes in just over 45 minutes. One time I
    even shot a 33. I'll save the cart for the days when I really tired
    and do just want to hit the ball around and not really get into
    the game.
    
    I'm curious that you can just go out and play in a cart in 2 1/2
    hours. The course must be empty. If it is then I'm willing to bet
    that I can play almost as fast as you can walking. You see the problem
    in the slowness of the game is way we play. Gee do I have the right
    club; what was the distance anyway; I think this 1 foot putt breaks
    to the left of right and I'd better reanalyze this. (This belongs
    in another note I know). 
    
    In Europe (Scotland specifically) you don't have this problem. The last
    time I was there I played behind two elderly gentlemen (probably about
    65) who played 18 holes in just over 2 1/2 hours. When they approached
    their ball they knew what to hit and didn't dilly dally about. They got
    on and off the green with amazing speed and scored very well. 
    
    Yes a cart is nice but most people could play just as fast on foot
    if they used they thought about the way they play.
    
    Roger                                                         

	 Please continue this discussion in topic #63 - I think slow play is
	 enough of a nuisance to warrant its own topic.

	 -- Mr Litby

    I had mixed feelings about Stow being sold. On the one hand, it
    was one of the better public courses maintenance-wise, but I will
    not shed a tear over the Rude brothers a.ka. Page brothers being
    out. Let them manage Augusta, their personality is suited for it.
    

    
           WELL STOW HAS BEEN SOLD AND THE PAGE BOYS ARE OUT. NOT ONLY
           ARE THEY OUT OF STOW BUT OUT OF GOLF. THE NEW COURSE THEY
           WERE BUILDING GOT SNUFFED. I AM TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHO'S
           WORSE, HOMER AT JUNIPER OR THE PAGE BOYS? ALL THOSE WHO SAY
           HOMER RAISE YOUR PUTTERS. ALL THOSE WHO SAY THE PAGE BOYS?
           I RAISED MY PUTTER FOR HOMER. 
           BACK TO STOW. I LIVE IN BURLINGTON VT. AND WINTER GOLF IS,
           WELL IT ISN'T SO LIKE A TRUE GOLF NUT I SET UP A LITTLE
           TRIP WITH A FRIEND FROM MARLBORO TO PLAY AT STOW LAST WEEKEND
           BECAUSE OF THE GREAT WEATHER IN MASS. STOW IS STILL OPEN.
           WELL I DRIVE FOR 5 HOURS THE NIGHT BEFORE SO WE CAN GET OFF
           AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE AND MAYBE GET IN 36. FRIDAY MORNING
           WE CALL STOW AND ASK IF THEY ARE OPEN AND THEY SAY YES. WELL
           MY HEART RATE GOES UP TO ABOUT A THOUSAND BEATS A SECOND
           AND OFF WE GO. WE PULL UP TO THE COURSE AND THERE MUST HAVE
           BEEN 2 INCHES OF SNOW. THE GREENS WERE COVERED WITH SNOW
           AND ICE. THIS IS NOT GOOD. IF THAT'S THE WAY THEY ARE GOING
           TO MANAGE THE COURSE THEY WILL TURN IT INTO A DESERT. THERE
           WAS ACTUALLY A GUY ON THE TEE. THE PAGE BOYS MAY BE A COUPLE
           OF RUDE SUCKERS BUT THEY WOULD NEVER HAVE THE COURSE OPEN
           UNDER THOSE CONDITIONS.   
               

Re: .-1

>           AND OFF WE GO. WE PULL UP TO THE COURSE AND THERE MUST HAVE
>           BEEN 2 INCHES OF SNOW. THE GREENS WERE COVERED WITH SNOW
>           AND ICE. THIS IS NOT GOOD. IF THAT'S THE WAY THEY ARE GOING
>           TO MANAGE THE COURSE THEY WILL TURN IT INTO A DESERT. 

	I am sorry to here that they are continuing to abuse their most
	prized possession.  Over the last two years they have poored all
	their money into facilities and the course is starting to show it.
	I was hoping that this year would be the year that they focused on
	the course getting back into the conditioning that had kept it a
	stable member of the Golf Digest Top 75 Public Course list.  I guess
	they don't realize that as the course deteriorates fewer & fewer
	people will want to pay big bucks to play or hold their outings there.
	(A serious mistake for a couple guys holding a multi-million dollar
	mortgage.)

	Larry

    Re:< Note 62.15 by EUCLID::WARFIELD "Gone Golfing" >

>   (A serious mistake for a couple guys holding a multi-million dollar
>   mortgage.)

    It's because they have that kind of mortgage that they want to get as
    much money as they can as fast  as  they  can,  without  minding  the
    damage to the courses.  Also, they invested some money (I would guess
    something like $50K at least) in  setting  up  the  south  course for
    x-country skiing and in x-country equipment and  the  weather  hasn't
    contributed a single bit.
    
    I also don't think that the Page Brothers were unreasonable, but that
    is a personal point of view.
    
    Tavo
    
    P.S.   RE .14.  A little nit.  Could you type  in  lower  case?    In
    VAXnotes is considered  shouting to write in upper case.  It is also,
    at least for me, easier to read.  Thanks.

re: .-16

>    It's because they have that kind of mortgage that they want to get as
>    much money as they can as fast  as  they  can,  without  minding  the
>    damage to the courses. 

    I understand your point, but without being privy to the details of their
    mortgage I am assuming it is for 1 or 2 decades.  Without the proper
    attention you could make the course look like Ponkapaug well before the
    loan is up.

>    Also, they invested some money (I would guess
>    something like $50K at least) in  setting  up  the  south  course for
>    x-country skiing and in x-country equipment and  the  weather  hasn't
>    contributed a single bit.

    I had heard that they were setting up XC Skiing.  The south course is
    not ideally suited to it.  The front nine is flat & boring from a XC
    perspective.  The hills on the back nine could be murder.  It is a
    shame that they have had such bad luck with the weather.  I am also
    concerned how this winter will affect conditions at courses around
    New England next year.

   Don't get me wrong I still think that Stow is in better condition and
   a better layout than most around.  However those of us who consider it
   our home course don't want them turning Filet Mignon into Salisbury Steak.

   Larry
    

    Regard the XC Skiing.... it won't happen this year. They invested
    in Skis for rental, clothong etc   some bucks.... but alas...they
    forgot to tell the town of Stow they were changing the use of the
    land. Their Zoning for recreational land is for GOLF not XC Sking.
    So they were told to cease and desist from advertising XC Sking
    and file for a permit to allow it. this will take a Public Hearing
    and will not get done until next season. So so much for that idea!!
    
    ALSO  in a recent Wall Street Journal this week, the course is
    advertised FOR SALE  asking 20M is the word...  how about that?
    
    Roy
    

    
    
    RE: .16   Lower case it shall be. I'm just a rookey at this.
    
              Pete
    
    RE: 18    Wow! I can't believe they are looking to sell so soon.
              I guess we can only hope a true lover of the game buys
              it.
    

    Re:< Note 62.18 by SLSTRN::GOULD >

>   ALSO  in a recent Wall Street Journal this week, the course is
>   advertised FOR SALE  asking 20M is the word...  how about that?
    
    Did you see the add?
    
    I asked yesterday at Stow, and Chuck  said  it  was  not up for sale,
    that it was a  rumor  started by an add in the New York Times of a 36
    hole golf club for sale  outside  Boston,  but  he  says  is not Stow
    Acres.
    
    Tavo

Re: .-1

>>   ALSO  in a recent Wall Street Journal this week, the course is
>>   advertised FOR SALE  asking 20M is the word...  how about that?
>    
>    Did you see the add?
>    
>    I asked yesterday at Stow, and Chuck  said  it  was  not up for sale,
>    that it was a  rumor  started by an add in the New York Times of a 36
>    hole golf club for sale  outside  Boston,  but  he  says  is not Stow
>    Acres.


   It must have been a tough week.  What courses fit this description?
   The only ones I can think of are Green Meadows in NH, & New Seabury on
   Cape Cod.

   Oh I just thought of a new one.  Maybe Dukakis plans to trim $20M off
   of his budget woes by selling Ponkapaug! 

    It may be Ponkapoag because there was supposed to be an article
    in the Globe asking for bids to lease and manage both Ponkapoag
    and Leo J. Martin in Weston.

    Re:< Note 62.22 by IAMOK::OCONNOR >

>   It may be Ponkapoag because there was supposed to be an article
>   in the Globe asking for bids to lease and manage both Ponkapoag
>   and Leo J. Martin in Weston.

    According to  this  month's  Golf Digest these two courses are up for
    sale, so yes,  the  state is trying to get rid of them and Stow Acres
    is not for sale publicly.
    
    Tavo         

    I played the North Course several weeks ago. $30 to get treated like a
    nothing from the guy behind the counter. The starter was no bargain
    either. I used to go to Stow Acres alot. I used to talk withthe eldest
    Page brother. As smug and wise as he was, these new guys are worse. I
    will never play there again, especially at $30. It isn't worth $30 to
    play there, as nice as it is. I love that 9th hole.But I certainly
    won't fork over $30 to be raced through and made to feel like an
    inferior person/golfer. 

    	I had a similar experience, two years ago when the Page brothers
    did own the course.  I can't say whether it was one of them or not,
    but both the person in the club house accepting my money, and the
    starter, gave me the hardest time, and more or less treated me like
    they were the customer and I was lucky they were accepting my product,
    as oppossed to the other way around.  You can bet that from now
    on, I will not put up with that kind of attitude.  While I understand
    that I, as a customer and golfer, am expected to show proper respect
    to the course, the golfers who play there, and the management, I
    also expect the same in return.  Stow is one place, you as a
    non-member, do not get it.
    
    Beak

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 153.0                Plans for new course in Stow                 2 replies
COGITO::WARFIELD "Gone Golfing"                      48 lines  23-SEP-1987 02:54
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

THE STOW VILLAGER      SEPT. 11, 1987

PAGE PLANS NEW STOW GOLF GOURSE

Former Stow Acres owner Robert Page and his engineer met with the Conservation
Commission on September 1 to reveal his plan for a new 18 hole golf course for
Stow - Butternut Farm Golf Course.

The proposed new golf course would be located on a 73 acre parcel of land that
runs along Wheeler and Gleasondale Roads.  A third of the parcel, some 23 acres,
is land that Page held after his sale of Stow Acres.  Page purchased the
remaining acreage from Charles & Dorothy Leggett who reside on Gleasondale Road
across from the proposed site.

For years the land was farmed for butternut squash, a hybird of squash that
Charles Leggett started here in 1938, hence the name Butternut Farm Golf Course
expalins Page.

"I thought you were finished with golf courses" remarked Commission member
Garry Balboni kiddingly.

"That's my brothers" Page retorted.  "They wanted out, I don't think we should
have ever sold it."

Stating that he "loves this business (golf)", Page told the Commission members
"you never know what will happen to the other course (Stow Acres).  But I plan
on occupying every bit of this land with golf course; there will be no houses
(on it)".

Charles & Dorothy Leggett confirmed Page's vearcity on this issue, explaining
they sold the land to Page with the stipulation that it be used for either a 
golf course or open space.  "If any other use was considered, he (Page) would 
have to come back and negotitate with us", said Mrs. Leggett.

In his proposal for the new golf course, Page has planned four double greens
and one triple green.  He is particularly proud of the double green which
would be totally surrounded by water.  "This one will be the first of its kind
in the country", Page said.

The clubhose would be located on Wheeler Road across from the former Stow
Rest Home.  Page hopes to reconstruct a water wheel on this site, historically
mirroring the old Wheeler MIll which once stood there.

Conservation Commission members voiced concern about the impact to the
floodplain along Wheeler Pond and any other wet area on the property.  "We
need to know exactly where you plan to put the greens and tees in relation to
these areas", Commission member Garry Balboni said.  The commission agreed to 
review Page's information and walk the site over the upcoming weekend.

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 153.1                Plans for new course in Stow                    1 of 2
COGITO::WARFIELD "Gone Golfing"                      15 lines  23-SEP-1987 03:03
                             -< When can we play? >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This was good news for the Boston golf community.  The Page's did a quality
job of running Stow over the last several decades.  I hope this course will
be in the same class.

The article did not mention anything about the architect.  Geoffery Cornish
& assoc. did most of the work on the two Stow courses.  I hope he is involved
again since he's been responsible for many good New England courses Cranberry
Valley & Captains to name a couple.

I am slightly amazed that he is allowed to open another golf course.  Normally
when you sell a business the buyer puts in a clause that you cannot open a
competing business for X years.

With the waits at Stow I think the area can support another course without
affecting anyone's pocketbook to much.

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 153.2                Plans for new course in Stow                    2 of 2
AUTHOR::F_MCGOWAN                                    23 lines  26-SEP-1987 15:24
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I agree that another course in Stow will not cut into anyone's business
    too badly, especially in light of the story in yesterday's Middlesex
    News regarding the likelihood of partial closing of Leo J. Martin
    (MDC) in Weston, so the town can take over the fairways on 7, 8,
    9, 12 and 13 for "affordable" housing (based on my experiences,
    they are more than welcome to 13, one of the most misery-inflicting
    holes I've ever tried to negotiate).
    
    While taking a lesson at Stow yesterday, I heard that a golf academy
    is being built adjacent to the driving range; so I guess the new
    owners are serious about continuing to support the game. Having
    another high-quality course in town should provide motivation to
    improve things even more (like [dare we think?] reserved tee times
    on weekends).
    
    Incidentally, for those looking for an instructor, I would recommend
    Dave Hoosier (sp?) very highly: he cured my shankitis in about 5
    minutes, and by the end of the lesson I was hitting wedge shots
    in just about any direction I chose. Dave teaches at Stow Acres
    on Fridays, and at Wayland Mon - Thurs.
    
    	Frank (who now shanks only when I choose to!)
    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 172.0                   New Course for Stow ???                   5 replies
FILM::PIEL                                           12 lines  18-DEC-1987 09:08
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    A few months ago, note 153 spoke of a new course that was in the
    proposal stage in the town of Stow next to Stow Acres. While driving
    to the Mill yesterday, I was on Rt. 62 and noticed quite a few 
    orange markers in a field next to Stow Acres. 
    This prompts my question, is this part of the proposed new course
    and does anyone have any additional information regarding the new
    course. We sure could use one in this area !
    
    
    
                         Ken
    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
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Note 172.1                   New Course for Stow ???                      1 of 5
DICKNS::F_MCGOWAN                                     4 lines  21-DEC-1987 10:31
                           -< No news is no news... >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I have no info re the new course, but its opening can't happen soon
    enough, especially now that the public course in Lexington (Pine
    Meadows) has been sold to a condo developer.
    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 172.2                   New Course for Stow ???                      2 of 5
MPGS::PERCUOCO                                       13 lines  21-DEC-1987 13:33
                             -< "BUTTERNUT GROVE" >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    SURVEYING THE PROPERTY FOR "BUTTERNUT GROVE G.C." HAS BEGUN.
    I WAS TALKING TO FRED PAGE, WHO'S BROTHER BOB IS BUILDING THE
    THE COURSE, AND THEY HAVE THE CONTRACTORS LINED UP AND WILL BEGIN
    TO BREAK GROUND SHORTLY. THE COURSE SHOULD BE PRETTY MUCH READY IN
    ABOUT A YEAR FROM NOW. FROM TALKING WITH FREDDY, THIS COURSE TOOK
    ALOT OF THOUGHT AND SHOULD PROVE TO BE ONE OF THE NICEST IN THE
    AREA. I'VE KNOWN THE PAGES A LONG TIME AND THEY KNOW THEIR STUFF
    WHEN IT COMES TO KEEPING UP A GOLF COURSE! I CAN'T WAIT TO PLAY
    THERE!!!
    
    		KEEP SWINGIN!
    
    			TOM

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 172.5                   New Course for Stow ???                      5 of 5
FILTER::PIEL                                         16 lines   7-JAN-1988 09:46
                                 -< Updates ? >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    RE: .4
    
    
          Tom,
    
              I am glad that it will be public. Would you be agreeable
    to keeping us updated as you find out more information ?
     Also, do you know who is the architect that is designing the 
    course?
    
    
    
    
                      thanks,
                             Ken
    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 172.4                   New Course for Stow ???                      4 of 5
MPGS::PERCUOCO                                        5 lines   4-JAN-1988 13:31
                          -< RE: PUBLIC OR PRIVATE? >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    OH, IT WILL BE PUBLIC!!! MAYBE IT WILL LIGHTEN
    THE PLAY A LITTLE AT STOW ACRES?????? SEEING
    THAT THEY ARE SO CLOSE TOGETHER! I'M PHSYCHED!!
    
    						TOM

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 239.0                  Stow Acres or Stow fakers                  4 replies
CSSE::THRASHER                                       59 lines  24-MAR-1988 14:04
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I took a ride to Stow at lunch time to see how many lucky fellas
    were able to take the day off and play in this great weather. They
    only had one course open and it was a two hour wait to get out.
    
    The following is the prices for this season::
    Sat.,Sun.,and Holidays North $24  South $22
    Weekdays North $20  South $18
    
    After 3:00 on weekends $14:00
    After 4:00 on weekdays $11.00
    
    Carts are $19.00
    
    Also this year they have tee times, the procedure is as follows:
    You can call up to 5 days in advance to reserve a tee time on either
    course. (call hours are NOON to 5P.M. daily)
    
    You must give a credit card number to guarantee the time and number
    of players.
    
    Payment on day you play is CASH only
    
    Cancellations accepted 24 in advance of tee time.
    
    THey also have a new gimmick (must have got this from a car salesman)
    called a gold card. For the mere price of $225 you can get a Stow
    Acres GOLD CARD. The features of this are:
    5% discount on pro shop purchase (minimum purchase $50.00) does
    not include sale items.
    
    A cash rebate on green fees (excluding reduced afternoon rates)
    
    $2.00 Friday-Sunday
    $3.00 Monday-Thursday
    
    Preferred call in times (earlier call in)
    Membership in International hole in one club.
    
    Some rough calculations for those of you who may consider this
    gimmick:
    
    If you only play weekends, it would take 113 rounds for you to break
    even with the $2.00 rebate. Using the new fees, you will need to
    spend $2486.00 if playing the North and$2260 if playing the South.
    
    If you are lucky and can play during the week, it would take you
    75 rounds to break even. You will spend $1275 on the North or
    $1125 on the South.
    
    If you can play twice per week, it will take approx. 38 weeks to
    get the 75 rounds in. I don't belive Stow is open that many weeks
    in the year.
    
    My personal opinion is the GOLD CARD is not worth buying, but for
    those of you who have plenty of time and plenty of money, go for
    it.
    
    Dan
    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 239.1                  Stow Acres or Stow fakers                     1 of 4
SA1794::WELLSPEAK "Pride and Power"                  19 lines  25-MAR-1988 07:44
                               -< More on Stow >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    	Dan, thanks for the info..  You are right about the "Gold Card"
    offer.  Sounds like a dud to me, but no doubt there will be plenty
    who go for it.  I'm from Western Mass., and once or twice a year,
    get out to the Bedford training facility, and would like to play
    Stow once each trip.  Could you please post the telephone number
    and area-code for tee time reservations?  I've played the South
    once and the North once and thought the actual course was great
    both times.  But the people who ran the course, (Page Bros.) were
    very rude and impolite to say the least.  They acted and treated
    people like it was a privilege for you to be playing here, no matter
    what it cost you, when in actuality, you the player, are the customer
    and they should consider it a privilege that you chose their course
    to play on and pay their prices to do so.  Yes there are certain
    rules that must be followed that are set by the course
    owners/management, but they don't include harrassing the customer,
    which they were doing.  I for one, am glad the course is under new
    ownership, and am looking forward to playing it once again.
    
                                                       Beak

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 239.2                  Stow Acres or Stow fakers                     2 of 4
KSYS::DONOVAN                                        61 lines  28-MAR-1988 14:58
                      -< The Golf School-Middlesex News >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

	From THE MIDDLESEX NEWS, Saturday, March 26, 1988

	By John Nogowski

		"When you've got nearly 7000 yards of open space
	at your disposal, you've got plenty of room to stretch.
	And that's just what Walter Lankau and Roger Kane have
	done with their pride possession, Stow Acres Country Club.
		No, the 36-hole public course isn't getting any
	longer.  But it is getting bigger.  At least in terms of
	the kind of golf services it intends to offer New England
	golfers.
		Starting May 28, Stow Acres will open 'The Golf
	School,' a 'day school' that will offer intensive golf
	instruction seven days a week under the direction of PGA
	professional David Heuser.
		'The single bond that unites all golfers is the
	desire to play better,' Heuser said at a press conference
	yesterday morning.  'Improvement is achieved through in-
	struction, practice and experience.'
		There'll be plenty of both instruction and prac-
	tice this summer at Stow Acres, voted as one of the na-
	tion's top 50 public courses.
		'What we would like to do,' Lankau said, 'is take
	another step toward our goal of making Stow Acres the most 
	outstanding and complete public golf facility in New Eng-
	land.  We feel The Golf School will be a big step in that
	direction.'
		The announcement of the new program may allay fears
	in the community that Stow Acres owners Lankau and Kane
	were intending to close down one of the 18-hole courses
	and use the land for subdivisions.  Kane stated yesterday
	that wasn't so.
		'We have nothing on the agenda pertaining to con-
	dominiums or subdivisions or anything like that,' Kane
	said.  'There's a lot of land here that's not on the golf
	course, enough for another 18-holes, but we haven't even
	begun to explore the possibilities of what we might do 
	with that land.'
		'We're very committed to offering 36 holes of 
	golf,' Lankau said.  'I think the fact that we're offer-
	ing The Golf School shows our commitment.'
		Since the PGA Seniors Tour stops over in Nashaw-
	tuc every year, there has been some talk that Lankau would
	attempt to lure the Seniors overr to Stow Acres.  Not so,
	he says.
		'I would love to have a major tournament here,'
	Lankau said.  'And this is the perfect course to hold one
	because we wouldn't have to shut down.  But I think Na-
	shawtuc is pretty happy hosting the tournament and it 
	will be there for a while.  If they were interested in
	giving it up, which I doubt they are, well, then we'd be
	first in line.'
		One additional bit of news for area golfers.  Stow
	Acres will be using starting times this season in a attempt
	to avoid the lengthy delays that have been a problem in the
	past.  Golfers interested in scheduling a round of golf can
	call and book a starting time up to five days in advance."


    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 239.3                  Stow Acres or Stow fakers                     3 of 4
KSYS::DONOVAN                                        43 lines  28-MAR-1988 15:00
                    -< Golf School Added-The Boston Herald >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

	From THE BOSTON HERALD, Sunday, March 28, 1988

	GOLF NOTEBOOK / By JOE GORDON

	"GOLF SCHOOL ADDED TO GROWING STOW ACRES"

	"The busy two-course complex at Stow Acres has undergone 
	a variety of physical and philosophical renovations re-
	cently which could result in the 1992 United States
	Public Links Golf Championship being played there.

	The projects weren't necessarily launched with the pres-
	tigious national championship in mind, but both the 
	Massachusetts Golf Association and course co-owner Walter
	Lankau have expressed an interest in hosting the event.
	The local upgrading of Public Links golf is a goal of
	former MGA President Ray Bump.

	Lankau, who owns the scenic 36-hole layout along with 
	Roger Kane, held a press conference to announce several
	innovations, including a permanent golf school on the site
	starting May 28 and directed by noted teaching professional
	David Heuser.

	Heuser, who did a stint at the Jack Nicklaus Center in Ohio
	and at Southern Hills in Tulsa, will conduct 5-day weekday
	and two-day weekend schools at $325 per person for the week-
	end school and $695 for the five-day package.  The schools
	will run through September.

	In preparation, the Stow Acres practice facility has been
	tripled in size, and the clubhouse has been renovated.
	Starting times have also been employed for the first time
	for the facility which handles 90,000 rounds of golf a year.

	'We have discussed the Public Links Championship, in fact
	I spoke to Dick Crosby (MGA Tournament Director) today,'
	Lankau said.  'I believe the MGA has recommended (to the USGA)
	that the 1992 tournament be played here.

	'But the changes we have made have been done to transform an
	excellent public facility into a complete golf complex.'"
    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 239.4                  Stow Acres or Stow fakers                     4 of 4
AUTHOR::F_MCGOWAN                                    18 lines  12-APR-1988 20:04
                    -< Everything was fine except my game! >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Well, I finally played a full 18-hole round at Stow (South) last
    Saturday, and I must say that if my experience is typical, they
    seem to be doing it right (it may almost be worth the greens fee).
    They were putting groups out every 8 minutes; they had a marshal
    patrolling in a cart to keep things moving; and the course was in
    damned good condition for this time of year. We never got backed
    up, and never had another group tailgating us either. We got around
    in about 4.5 hours, including a hot dog stop at the turn.
    
    So, I have no one and nothing to blame for the horrendous score
    I made! Just my own lousy play...I'm going to try it again this
    Sunday, to see if they can keep things as good as they were Satur-
    day. And, hope I can shave a couple dozen strokes off my score!!
    
    Frank
    

    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 495.0             The New Course in Stow - Any News?              7 replies
MTWAIN::F_MCGOWAN "Ci stiamo gia divertendo?"         3 lines  10-JAN-1989 18:30
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Does anyone have any news about the course Bob Page is trying to
    build in Stow? Last I heard, it was hung up by town politics...
    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 495.1             The New Course in Stow - Any News?                 1 of 7
SLSTRN::GOULD                                        14 lines  11-JAN-1989 09:54
                                   -< NO GO >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    It went to town meeting 2 weeks ago. Knowing that there was some
    fierce local neighborhood oposition (Wheeler Road residents) he
    tries to withdraw the article. However the moderator would not allow
    him to withdraw the article and it came up for discussion and was
    defeated.
    
    The reason for not allowing him to withdraw and force the vote is
    that now it cannot comeback before the town for 2 years. The Pages
    were looking to rezone a parcel to recreational use from residential
    use.
    
    Now we can look forward to a sub division there.
    
    Roy

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 495.2             The New Course in Stow - Any News?                 2 of 7
DARTS::DIAZ "Los Angeles Locos de Tenacatita"        22 lines  11-JAN-1989 09:58
                                -< Turned down >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Re:< Note 495.0 by MTWAIN::F_MCGOWAN "Ci stiamo gia divertendo?" >

    Frank,
    
    I live  in  Stow,  and  yes, at the last town meeting the town didn't
    approve a change  in  the town laws to allow him to build his course.
    I saw him about  a  week  later  and he was sad about it.  He doesn't
    need the money, but something  to do, and since he has been running a
    golf course most of his adult life, he wants to keep on doing so.
    
    My impression is that the town is now struggling  with growth and how
    to control it, and since they have great preasure from  the  state to
    promote  "affordable" housing, they prefered to approve a  bylaw  for
    two family housing and in-law appartments, but turned down  the  golf
    course one since the town already has three courses.   (if  you count
    Stowaway as a course :^).  They also approved hiring a  consultant to
    do a development growth plan.
    
    Tavo
    
    P.S.  BTW, I had a  great  time  in  M�xico, but not a second to play
    golf. Next time.

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 495.3             The New Course in Stow - Any News?                 3 of 7
SA1794::TENEROWICZT                                   7 lines  11-JAN-1989 14:34
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Hey, If this guy wants a course send him west to the Springfield
    area. We could use another course in the greater Springfield area.
    We had one close down in Agawam and a second was for sale but the
    deal fell threw.
    
    
    Tom

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 495.4             The New Course in Stow - Any News?                 4 of 7
ENGINE::WARFIELD "Gone Golfing"                      15 lines  11-JAN-1989 18:15
                       -< Democracy <> smart government >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am saddened to hear about how the town of Stow treated the Page's proposal.  
I can understand the town's concerns about affordable housing and the potential 
damage done to a town's character by developers who obtain a comprehensive 
permit (and in effect carte blanche) from the state.

However I think that their reaction is short sighted.  The quaint charm of Stow 
is that it is a small town with lots of open space (especially apple orchards 
and golf courses).  It doesn't take much appreciation in real estate values to 
turn either of these into mamoth real estate developments.  In that case they
have to provide all those expensive town services, raise taxes, etc.

Maybe he could persuade the MWRA that his land would make a great location for 
their sludge treatment center!

Larry

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 495.5             The New Course in Stow - Any News?                 5 of 7
NEAVAX::MILLER_C "Chuck - Don't Worry, be HOPpy!"     6 lines  26-MAR-1989 21:01
                             -< Backup strategy? >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    FYI, the fellow that now owns Stow Acres looking to build a new
    course in Townsend Mass.  From what I read in the local rags, it
    sound like the townies are excited about the prospect of a nice
    golf course in that neck of the woods.
    
    Chuck

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 495.6             The New Course in Stow - Any News?                 6 of 7
JAWS::DIAZ "CMG/CDG/SAMG"                            24 lines  11-MAY-1989 13:53
                            -< FOR THE SECOND TIME >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    For the  second time, Bob Page  presented  to the town his request to
    change the zoning from residential  to  recreational on the 80+ acres
    he owns so he could then build a golf course, and for the second time
    it was not approved.
    
    The town paper says that he is now considering subdivisions and build
    according to the zoning.
    
    I can't understand it!!!!!!
    
    The town is very concerned about its growth  and  preserving the town
    as  rural as possible, but they turn down a  petition,  from  someone
    that has been good to Stow for many years, that  would have kept open
    spaces and country atmosphere in Stow.  And what else can  he  do but
    use the land for what he is allowed to, build.
    
    On top of that we just overruled 2 � and the town taxes could  go  up
    this  fall  as  much  as 20%.
    
    Someone interested in very well kept Cape in Stow? Great price!
    
    Tavo
    
    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 495.7             The New Course in Stow - Any News?                 7 of 7
JAWS::DIAZ "CMG/CDG/SAMG"                            19 lines  29-JUN-1989 21:25
                             -< 4 COURSES IN STOW >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I feel like the Stow voice, but here is the latest.

I talked  to  one  of  the  selectmen, who happens to be my neighbor, and
asked him why  the  town  didn't  approve  Page's  request for the zoning
change.    I  didn't  catched  this  before,  but  the  way  Bob Page was
presenting his  zoning  change would have allowed him to develop the land
if he so  desired, not only as recreational.  The town wants give him the
zoning change for him to build the course and that's it, no condos, or in
the future no scratching the course and building houses.

It seems that he has  agreed  to  only  recreational  zoning  and he will
submit his request again for the  next  town  meeting in the fall.  If he
does his homework it will be approved,  and  Stow  will  have  four  golf
courses, that is if you consider the cow pasture of Stowaway a course.

By the way, Stow Acres has zoning that allows them to build, and the town
is concerned about that.

Tavo

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 512.0                Are they wrecking Stow Acres?               11 replies
ADVAX::CLOSE                                         19 lines  30-JAN-1989 10:19
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I played Stow North yesterday. The conditions were pretty good for Jan. 
    It was packed with players, and the regular greens were open. Actually
    played pretty well, too. I was drawing, which for a fader/slicer like
    me is a revelation. I hope it lasts.
    
    The guys they linked me up with were saying that is was shameful,
    tragic, awful, etc. that the course was open and the greens were in
    play. They said it would wreck the course, and that the management was
    only doing it because they were broke and had counted on the X country
    ski revenue to pay their huge mortgage through the winter.
    
    So -- how does winter play on the greens wreck a course? Does it kill
    the roots of the grass or something? And why is it so terrible at Stow
    and not on the Cape?
    
    BTW -- it was really fun to get out there, and I'm pscyhed to play
    again. This year the season starts in January! I've also been told that
    Poquoy Brook is open and in much better shape than Stow. Anyone played
    there this month?

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 512.1                Are they wrecking Stow Acres?                  1 of 11
PHENIX::MCSHANE                                      10 lines  30-JAN-1989 12:39
                -< iam not helping with the mortgage this year >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    i think the only thing that hurts playing stow acres is my wallet
    
    did they charge you summer rates? and did you call 5 days inadvance
    for tee times? did you see the ranger out there timeing you, so
    you don't hold anybody up ?
    
    
    
    bob, who_likes_the_course_but_can't_stand_the_BS_you_haveta_put_up_with
    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 512.2                Are they wrecking Stow Acres?                  2 of 11
ADVAX::CLOSE                                          3 lines  30-JAN-1989 14:20
                                -< No hassles >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I showed up alone, linked up with some guys, paid $14 and went off in
    about ten minutes at 11:00 on Sunday. No rangers around, no starter,
    nothing. Just one guy working the register.

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 512.3                Are they wrecking Stow Acres?                  3 of 11
GRANPA::KVENEZIO                                     17 lines  30-JAN-1989 14:26
                             -< Where's the Beef >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Ref: .0
    
    I have never understood the closing of greens in the winter months.
    The course I grew up on (Long Island) never closed the greens. I
    can remember brushing off the snow so that we could play all year.
    Come spring and summer this course had the best greens of all the
    courses in the area and most other courses closed their greens December
    1 or sooner.
    
    Maybe we can here from some former greenskeepers on this one. I
    would like to know myself what the rationale is for closing.
    
    Mike, are you listening?
    
    
    Ken
    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
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Note 512.4                Are they wrecking Stow Acres?                  4 of 11
USWAV3::FAGERBERG                                    11 lines  30-JAN-1989 15:00
                           -< tough ear for a green >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    
    
     One of the biggest problems with greens during the inter months
    is thawing and frost heaves.  Walking on greens that have partially
    thawed leave big footprints in the surface of the green, much like
    breaking through thin ice on a puddle.  The greenskeeper has to
    aerate and roll the greens to get the footprints out.  Also they
    usually have multiple cups cut in the green toeven out the wear
    on the dormant grass.  When you leave the green you put the flag
    in the other cup.  Our greens do not winter well and a couple take
    until July to fully come back, so we play to temporary greens.

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 512.5                Are they wrecking Stow Acres?                  5 of 11
ENGINE::WARFIELD "Gone Golfing"                      10 lines  30-JAN-1989 17:22
                                -< winter kill >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


There are multiple schools of thought now a days about how greens should be
cared for over the winter.  They range from don't use, to it's OK to use, to
those courses that wrap greens in plastic.  The most damage to greens come
from ice.  Most winter kill comes from water that forms near the surface of
a green and then is frozen.  Most years this comes from a warm spell that 
partially melts the snow cover followed by colder temperatures that freeze the
water.

Larry

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 512.6                Are they wrecking Stow Acres?                  6 of 11
VINO::RASPUZZI "Michael Raspuzzi"                    31 lines  30-JAN-1989 17:42
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Guess I am a little slow today. The last 2 replies pretty much summed
    it up.
    
    Walking on greens in the winter time can cause them to putt very
    erratically in the spring (because of footprints). Smoothing out
    a green is a big pain because you have to roll it over and over
    again in the spring. If you do not smooth out a green before the
    ground firms up for summer play, then forget it for that year.
    
    Winter kill is the biggest problem. If you walk on greens that have
    snow on them, you will be packing the snow down. Then the snow will
    melt and freeze, melt and freeze, melt and freeze (well, you get
    the idea) and eventually become like ice. This causes "winter kill".
    In the spring time, you will see wonderful yellow (that means dead)
    grass where these nice ice prints were made. That's also the reason
    cross country skiers are discouraged from skiing on tees and greens.
    Tees and greens tend to have more sensitive grass. Also, I don't
    think I would like to be putting through a dead zone.
    
    In the winter time, grass becomes dormant. It does not grow and
    it is usually not green (a sign of hibernation). Constant traffic
    on weak areas of greens may cause some damage but I can't be sure
    on that one.
    
    At the course I worked at, we did not allow any tee or green usage
    during the winter. Our greens always rolled true and had no trouble
    come spring time. The composition of the ground and competence of
    the local greenskeeper may play heavily in how well the greens fair
    for the spring.
    
    Mike

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 512.7                Are they wrecking Stow Acres?                  7 of 11
NSG018::STOPERA "skill is stronger than strength"    11 lines  31-JAN-1989 07:17
                               -< Frozen greens >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    If you walk on a green that is frozen solid how can one hurt it?
    I could see that the greens could be hurt in March because they
    are thawing and walking on them could effect the surface, but in
    Jan. and Feb. when they are frozen? Also I might add that I would
    also think that it depends on the type of drainage on a course.
    I think Stowe is build on a sandy soil with good drainage.
    
    What about the tees? Anyone have an opion on that? 
    
    What about taking a divot? Will the grass grow back?           
    

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 512.8                Are they wrecking Stow Acres?                  8 of 11
VINO::RASPUZZI "Michael Raspuzzi"                    20 lines  31-JAN-1989 09:23
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    When a green is frozen, the grass is dormant. Many people walking
    on dormant grass does not help it any. In fact, grass does not even
    like to grow when it is healthy on heavily trafficked areas.
    
    Also, just because the ground is frozen does not mean the surface
    is not. A quick warm spell or a little moisture and the surface
    is now soft. Then people walk on it (hello footprints) and then
    the footprints refreeze in the green.
    
    Tees are just as fragile because of the traffic. Everyone tees off
    from the same area and winds up holing out in the same area. A good
    course will move tee markers and the hole at least once every other
    day and some places do it every day.
    
    Fairways survive a lot better because each golfer hits their shots
    to different spots. I don't know if a divot taken on dormant grass
    will come back to life eevn if you replace it. It probably depends
    on the root damage done at the time.
    
    Mike

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
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Note 512.9                Are they wrecking Stow Acres?                  9 of 11
FLYSQD::MONTVILLE                                    22 lines  31-JAN-1989 12:18
                           -< Cover-up..it's cold! >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    
    The greenskeeper at Nichols College Golf course started covering
    all the greens last year with a special plastic cover.  I have played
    golf on this course since I was 9 years old.  The greens or the
    browns as we called them for years in the spring and summer were
    100% better last year.  There was only one spot of winter kill on
    one of the nine greens and it appears that the grass may have been
    dead before they covered in early Dec.
    
    They are covered again this year so we again can make a comparison
    in the spring.
    
    There are other course in our area that allow winter play as long
    as there is no snow.  There is a considerable difference in the
    greens and tees in the early play.
    
    All I know with all this nice weather we've been having here in
    New England......I'm real itchy to break them out of the bed and
    let the old lady back in from the garage....I can abuse the clubs
    but the wife is pushing it!
    
    Monty

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
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Note 512.10               Are they wrecking Stow Acres?                 10 of 11
BTO::HOGANP                                          21 lines  20-FEB-1989 15:51
                           -< STOW'S CONDITION????? >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    
    
    re.5 & .6
    
     Well I golf at Stow this weekend and I have to agree that winter
    golf has an adverse effect on the greens and for that matter the
    entire course. If what I have been reading about the ice is the
    real killer then Stow will have some real problems this spring.
    I can see the effects of the footprints some have spoke of already.
    A couple of the holes are a real mess. The hole I have always
    concidered my favorite, number 3 on the north, looks tough. The
    green has frozen footprints all over it and even the fairway looks
    like a herd of buffalo ran over it. Some of the greens a almost
    totally covered with ice. There is only one hole in the green so
    your suggestion of moving the holes around, which is a very good
    idea, is not being used. I can't imagine it will be in the same
    condition it has been or what we are used to seeing at stow. I hope
    I am wrong but I feel the course is getting a double wammy, no snow
    and winter play. 
    
    Pete

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
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Note 512.11               Are they wrecking Stow Acres?                 11 of 11
HEFTY::WELLSPEAK "He's old...and his skin is cold.." 11 lines  21-FEB-1989 07:11
                               -< Not to worry >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    	While I agree that Winter golf can take it's toll on the condition
    of a course, it's amazing what Greens keepers can do with all the
    equipment and knowlege they have.  They'll end up rolloing the greens,
    and when the ground gets softer, ( it's only soft now from the ground
    down to about 2 or 3 inches ), they'll move the holes frequently.
    After, they'll throw a sand/fertilizer mixture down that will firm
    up the greens, if necessary.  You won't beleive what you see, come
    late June.  But the early part of the season will show the wear
    that goes along with Winter golf.
    
                                                        Beak

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 572.0               Stow Acres Driving Range Open?                4 replies
NRPUR::CUSACK                                         6 lines  10-APR-1989 15:04
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Does anyone know if Stow Acres Driving Range is open yet?  If so,
    how late is it open?  
    
    Thanks for any info.
    
    Mike

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 572.1               Stow Acres Driving Range Open?                   1 of 4
MTWAIN::F_MCGOWAN                                     2 lines  10-APR-1989 17:59
                          -< yes, the range is open >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Yup, it's been open a week or so...didn't notice the hours of
    operation.

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 572.2               Stow Acres Driving Range Open?                   2 of 4
SLSTRN::GOULD                                         4 lines  11-APR-1989 08:54
                               -< Hours of Ops >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Its posted as being open daily 10:00AM til 7:00 PM... that was of
    last week anyway.
    
    Roy

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 572.3               Stow Acres Driving Range Open?                   3 of 4
RICKS::ANDERSON                                       4 lines  24-JUL-1989 12:25
                       -< More info on Stow Acres range >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Is the Stow Acres driving range open to the public?  Do you hit off of your 
own tees on grass or do they have rubber mats and plastic tees?  Thanks.

Walker

                    <<< USER$1:[NOTES$LIBRARY]GOLF.NOTE;1 >>>
                               -< The Good Game >-
================================================================================
Note 572.4               Stow Acres Driving Range Open?                   4 of 4
KOOZEE::WARFIELD "Gone Golfing"                      15 lines  24-JUL-1989 15:56
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>Is the Stow Acres driving range open to the public.

Yes,  I think it's $2.50 for a small bucket, $4.00 for a medium, & $6.00
for a large.  I think the hours are 7:30-?.  (I've been there at 8:00 and
it was still open.)

>Do you hit off of your own tees on grass or do they have rubber mats and
>plastic tees?  

They have the new fangled astro tuff mats with the sponge rubber backing,
& the typical rubber tees found at driving ranges.  

>Thanks. 

You're welcome.

    Here the Stow Informer!
    
    I received  over  the  weekend the booklet detailing the items up for
    approval  at  the   November  town  meeting,  and  included  are  two
    modifications to the zoning bylaws:
    
    - One that will allow Stow Acres to  be  a  Cros  Country skiing area
      and,
    
    - The second one  that will allow golf courses in residential zoning,
      as long as  at  least 30% of the land  is  always  keep  as  a golf
      course.  I guess this new bylaw will clear the road for Bob Page in
      getting his golf club approved.
    
    Tavo

    
    Tavo,
    
    thanks for the running memos on "Stow Acres" and "Butternut 9001"
    
    Does this mean that Bob Page can start on the course right after
    the town vote? I see he has all kinds of earth moving equipment
    in his yard.
    
    Also, I understand no par 5's but really hard par 4's to island
    greens?
    
    Why it's taken this long is beyond me. Even if the Page's did
    not request the proper zoning, you would think it would be
    corrected in quick fashion. A golf course enhances the image
    of a town like Stow, I would think.
    
    Be nice to have another "track" close by.                       
    
    I happen to like the Pages, so I guess I'm in the minority.
    They created the legend of STOW ACRES , and sold to
    another"golfing famiy" to at least keep it that way.
    
    Is it true that Jack Nicklaus wanted to buy and put up
    condos?
    
       you must be sick of all these questions..but ??thanks
           for all the info...                         Angelo

    Re:                      <<< Note 62.65 by USEM::VOUTSELAS >>>

    I'll try to  answer  as  much  as  I know and in many cases I will be
    guessing.
    
>   Does this mean that Bob Page can start on the course right after
>   the town vote? I see he has all kinds of earth moving equipment
>   in his yard.

    He still has to apply for  the  building permit, but my guess is that
    that will just be a procedure,  but  you never know.  I have seen all
    that equipment myself, but I am guessing  that he may have other uses
    for it.
    
>   Also, I understand no par 5's but really hard par 4's to island
>   greens?

    Other than what has been  writen  in  this  note, I don't know of any
    course layout details, but I understand he only  has  about 85 acres,
    which is tight for an 18 hole course.
    
>   Why it's taken this long is beyond me. Even if the Page's did
>   not request the proper zoning, you would think it would be
>   corrected in quick fashion. A golf course enhances the image
>   of a town like Stow, I would think.

    Towns move very slow.   I  understand  there  were  (are?) people who
    oppose to even a golf course, mainly abutters.  The town is concerned
    that Stow Acres can be turned any  time  into  a  large  development,
    since there is nothing that could stop them.    They didn't want that
    to happen with an new course.
    
>   Be nice to have another "track" close by.                       

    You bet!
    
>   I happen to like the Pages, so I guess I'm in the minority.
>   They created the legend of STOW ACRES , and sold to
>   another"golfing famiy" to at least keep it that way.

    I like Bob, but not his brothers, so it  is  good  that he is the one
    doing it.
    
>   Is it true that Jack Nicklaus wanted to buy and put up
>   condos?
    
    Yes.
    
>      you must be sick of all these questions..but ??thanks
>          for all the info...                         Angelo

    My  pleasure.    I can't wait until they break ground  and  until  is
    ready.  I guess  I  am  spoiled for having Stow Acres 5 minutes away,
    and this one is going to be even closer.
    
    Tavo
    

    .66
      Tavo,
      thanks. Angelo
    

    
    Hi,
    
    	I am no longer capable of any rational thinking, it's 75+ degrees
    outside and Stow opens tomorrow. Am I going to wake up at 6:00 AM 
    tomorrow morning go to work and waste Digitals money by wondering
    around aimlessly banging into walls, because I can't stop gazing
    out every window watching the green appear? Or am I going 
    to do the company type thing and be at Stow @6:30 AM ?
    
    
    	Walta
    
    	

    Walta,
    
    With a little (*very* little) encouragement, it could be a twosome.
    Ang will be back too. 
    
    Decisions.......decisions.
    
    Ted

    
    Thought some that don't know may want to know..
    
    Can't beat the Fall Special prices at Stow Acres going on
    till the season closes.
    
    till 2:00 on weekdays (don't know about weekends) two can
    play either the South or North course for $40 (pretty sure)
    includes your 18 holes and a cart.
    
    after 2:00 the price drops to $29 for 2 for 18 and a cart
    on either course...that is a deal worth leaving work early
    for!! 
    
    get out and take advantage of this before we have to
    change the clocks back and its too late!

    How do you get to Stow Acres from Southern NH?

    
    
    495 south to exit 26 or 27 (RT 117) take 117 east about 5 miles to a
    set of lights at RT 62 take a right at the lights and head down about
    2 miles and you can't miss the signs on your right..about an hour
    from N.H line..
    
    

     You're gonna take a right at the lights, as stated, and there's a
    Texaco gas station on the right hand corner (at the lights).
    
    --Jack

    
    
    Tavo
    spoke to Fred Page Sunday and he says BUTTERNUT is actually under
    way and the lumber companys' are now removing wood and configuring
    the fairways, I see a lot of "bales of hay" lined up but I don't
    know if that has anything to do with  course construction.
    
       I guess the town finally let them "start digging"!
    I hope it's a good one, now all we need is WEDGEWODD to start up!!
    
    Any news you have on either would be appreciated,
    Ang
    

    
    
    I live 50' away from where the 9th fairway will be (the town told Page
    to leave a 50' tree buffer between all fairways that abutts someone's
    property) and they haven't started clearing the land yet..Talked to 
    Bob Page's wife and she said they are getting ready to start and it
    was in last thursdays paper also...the only hold up is a month of
    "appeals" that any of the abutters may file regarding the placement of
    his parking lot or clubhouse (can't remember which) because a slight
    portion or it will be on "occasional wetland". Once the month is passed
    and there aren't any appeals on the planned wetland warrant i'm sure
    he'll have his clearing crews in there soon after. I would think he'd
    be able to get most of the land cleared before spring and hopefully
    start pushing some dirt around by early spring.
      
    
    Al
     As for the bails of hay you saw..the people cut the grass a couple
    times a year and always bail it and let it sit for a few weeks before 
    picking it up...nothing new to that field.
    
    Al

    
    ... at $2,000 per year!!!!
    
    or $1,800 if you pay before February 15th.
    
    I just  got  a  flier  from Stow Acres announcing that they will have
    this year unlimited  golf  passes for $2,000.  This is valid any day,
    both courses. No other privileges.
    
    I think this is super  expensive  considering that it will still be a
    public course, i.e. no time blocks for non-pass holders.
    
    And if the season is, stretching it, lets say 10 months  long  or  43
    weeks, that means that to get my money back I have to  play  at least
    two full rounds per week, evry single week, which I know I won't  do,
    since I want to play other courses, and I travel.
    
    Weekdays only in the South course is $1,000.
    
    Tavo
    

    
    Hi Tavo,
    
    	Ouch ! That price will keep it limited to the Trumps... 
    
    	$1000.00 for weekdays just the South! What about leagues???
    	I wonder if you figure the % of possible playing time during
    	the week, taking into account that a good percent of the year
    	it gets dark early... how much per round it would be?
    
    	Walta

    
    The best buy at Stow is by the month. 150 per month ,all the golf
    mon thru fri. 4x3=12x24= 288 = actual costs without monthly pass,South.
                             150 = monthly pass
                             ---
                             130 saved on 3  rounds a week for 4 weeks.
    
                             Effective price per round: $12.50
    
    Assuming you can play 3 times a week, say during June July August.
    
    TAVO:
    
    I see Butternut well into construction: any opening dates??
    AND
    how about Wedgewood.?
    thanks,
               Ang
    
    

    
      From what i've been told butternut is scheduled to open in June of
    '92....sure are doing some major work in there...
    
    al

    Stow will have a new golf pro this season.  Chuck Jacobs is gone as
    the pro as of the beginning of Feb.  Just thought league players would
    be interested.
    
    They have not named a new pro yet, will most likely be one of the guys
    from the golf school.
    
    Any comments on this.
    
      

    Re:                        <<< Note 62.76 by CSSE::BOYLE >>>

    Do you know  what  happened to Chuck?  I am not surprised about this,
    he didn't have any trouble badmouthing the owners.
    
    I think  that  chance is for the better.  Chuck was very rough on the
    edges, and his attitude was negative or indifferent most of the times.
    
    On the other side he  goes back many years with the Page bros., maybe
    he is going to work for Bob Page on his new course.
    
    Tavo
    

Re: -.1

>    Stow will have a new golf pro this season.  Chuck Jacobs is gone as
>    the pro as of the beginning of Feb.  

     I'll miss Chuck he was part of the Stow ambiance.  Slowly the place has
     been going to the dogs.  First the Pages sold, then Paul stops being
     the starter (How many of you ever went down to the 1st tee on the
     North before he called your number more than once in your life?),
     then they turned the clubhouse into pratically a yuppie fern bar,
     now you don't have to put your "number" up on the board & wait 2 hours
     before teeing off you can make a tee time.

     Slowly bit by bit they are destorying an institution.  Next thing you
     know they'll be putting water & soap in the ball washers!  

     Larry

    Re:              <<< Note 62.78 by PUTTER::WARFIELD "Gone Golfing" >>>

>    Slowly bit by bit they are destorying an institution.  Next thing you
>    know they'll be putting water & soap in the ball washers!  
 
    That will be the day!!!!!!
    
    But seriously, yes I understand they plan a lot of "improvements" and
    try to get Stow back in shape. Let's hope they mean it.
    
    Tavo
    

    Did y'all read in the papers that Stow will host the '94 or '95 Publinx
    Championship? I read it in Golf World and was pleasently suprised. I've
    played both Stow courses many years ago and remember them being nice
    layouts. Condition was good.
    
    I'm sure the USGA will want to make some changes and work on
    conditioning. Thats great for the locals and gives everyone a chance to
    see some great golf. Tiger Woods will probably be in his prime by then
    and I predict he'll win it.
    
    How did he do in the LA Open, I missed news on him making or missing
    the cut.
    
    Ken

Nope, Tiger didn't qualify. He wasn't even low teenager--some 
16-year-old hotshot was 4 strokes better (he didn't make the cut, 
either). What makes that other kid's feat even more remarkable is that 
he QUALIFIED with a 68.

Still, even this new kid on the block admitted that Tiger is the one 
to watch.

Tom

For those in the New England area, Stow Acres will have their annual fair 
this weekend.

Usually all it is is the local manufacturer's reps showing their stuff and 
some door prizes and the pro shop trying to get rid of old inventory.

It was good for me last year since I have a Sun Mountain bag with 
worn shaft protectors. The rep told me to ship it to them and it got fixed 
free of charge.

This year, Stow is advertising that since they are expanding the pro shop, 
they will have bigger discounts to move inventory. It may be worth 
a look.

BTW, I believe the weekend after is the Golf Expo at the Bayside Expo in 
Boston. There you can definitely find some bargains.

mmm.... maybe those 855 I've been looking at, or should I wait for the 
lefties burner bubble?

Tavo

For those who were just waiting for nothing else to happen.....

Stow Acres opened today for the 1996 season. (I didn't ask why it took them so 
long. I think they could have opened this past weekend.)

The new lounge and pro shop are still under construction, I will say it will 
be at least a month before they finish it. They are temporarily in the small 
building were the golf school was.

How do I know all this things? I live about a mile away right on 117, so in 
the mornings I drive to a safer place to walk my dog. I usually go to a school 
playground, but occasionaly I go to Stow Acres, which I did this morning.

Tavo

    
    	So, is this place a total dump once again?  Who do they pay to keep
    	getting ranked as a top course?  Shoot, it isn't even a decent
    	design anymore nevermind the constantly terrible conditions.
    
    	But hey, they're working hard on that clubhouse!
    
    	Tom
    	

Gee Tom, did they ticked you off? :-)

Did they changed the design on you?

I agree, the courses are not in good shape. They let the league play 2/3 weeks ago 
in the middle of heavy rain and boy, I could see the damage we were causing to 
those greens in the North front. Particularly the 6th.

And they have done alot of clearing, but dumping most of the debris all around, so 
the overall feel is of not good care.

But, they still get a lot of customers!

    
    	Hey Tavo - no, they didn't tick me off.  It just feels like the
    	courses have been in terrible shape for too long now.  Other
    	courses are in good shape so what's their problem?  
    
    	As for the design, I guess that after playing New England CC,
    	Blissful Meadows, Sterling, Bretwood, Wachusetts recently, I 
    	can't figure out why they get the rave reviews.
    
    	Everyone in the league complains so I thought I'd mention it
    	in here...
    
    	Tom
    

Yes, there are many better tracks now. Besides the one you mentioned, Shaker Hills 
has decent greens now and the layout is one of the top. If only they allowed 
walking or cars outside the paths! An Maplegate is another good one.

Unfortunately for the Maynard League Stow Acres is very convenient, both on having 
two courses and location.

And for me, I live less than a couple miles away and work at OGO, so to give you an 
idea, my two year old car has only 15K miles.

My wife gave me a month pass to Stow for my birthday, so I am play 9 holes in the 
morning and still able to make it to the office by 9-9:30. Very convenient.

We should all let them know that they need to keep up the courses in better shape.