Jim Finegan is completely above being a flack for anyone or any course. He is one of the most principled men I have ever had the privilege to know. If GCA.com had a meeting in the Philadelphia area and Jim spoke to the group, everyone to a man would, I am certain, agree that it was one of the best talks they ever heard on any topic. Enthusiasm and passion is in every word the man speaks about family, friends and golf. He is such a kind and generous man and probably as well-travelled in UK golf as any non-native. He is getting on in years but one of his recent endeavors was, I believe I have the facts right, 21 courses and 21 hotels in 21 nights in Scotland and the next year something similar in Ireland.
Like Sean, I assume Jim writes about courses he feels worthy of his time and energy, therefore the courses are seen in a positive light. Like his personality, he sees good in everything and his nature permeates his writings. Of the thousands of holes he describes in his books, they all sound fresh and induce detailed images without relying on photos. I'm sorry, I think the world of this man and hold in high regard his love of golf and the depth of his work.
I know he doesn't visit GCA.com because he doesn't own a computer. He types his manuscripts out on an old typewriter. He is a classic!