Escalante Golf buys Grand Haven golf course

Palm Coast Observer
Opinion

When news broke that Crescent sold its second golf course in the last month, an outstanding staff at Grand Haven breathed a huge sigh of relief.

Escalante Golf, which was well-known for its purchase of high-end golf courses, added Grand Haven’s Jack Nicklaus layout to its arsenal, which now stands at seven in Florida.

The sale possibility had staff members and employees back on their heels for months not knowing whether the sale would be completed, and if they would still have a job.

But with the purchase, all staffers are staying. The truth is, any buyer in this land would be blessed with a staff like the one currently at Grand Haven.

Much like the golf course itself, the staff in place is a gem. Just ask any Grand Haven member about the value of General Manager Mark Bowlus, Head Pro Jason Bench, Assistant Head Pro Dane Winger, and staff members Gerry Mack, Lee Smith and Hall of Famer Marcia Hayton. It will be a smile and thumbs up all around.

Here and there
Golf tournaments are abounding through Palm Coast like racecars circling Daytona International Speedway.

One that deserves a long look for participation is the St. Patrick’s Day event by the Irish Social Club. The tournament is tabled for Saturday, March 17, at the Palm Harbor Golf Club, with an 8:30 a.m. start.

Proceeds go to the ISC scholarship fund, making the $55 per player fee the right thing to do. You can register with Jake Jacoby by calling 446-5169, or Jim Canfield, 446-1438.

Meanwhile, Pine Lakes is putting together a two-person challenge with Skins Game Feb. 4. Open to members and the public, this event invites you to pick your own partner and let it rip on a beautiful golf course.