Gents,
My first trip to Wisconsin. It indeed feels a lot like home, from the fabulous people, to the fondness for "pulled pork" and even the Git-R-Done Pub & Grub in Randolph. As you know Hillbilly is a state of mind, and I believe it exists in your fine state.
Erin Hills has grown on me since Tuesday. I can easily understand why opinions are polarized. As for Stefanie in the golf shop, I fear Dick's Irish blood was too easily warmed. Though a sweetheart, she would be lost in a crowd of co-eds in sun dresses in the student section down South at Knoxville, Auburn, Athens, Oxford, Tuscaloosa, Gainesville or Columbia just to name a few.
I am in love with Lawsonia Links and am astonished at the outstanding stewardship of its owner. The maintenance, feel and both macro and micro look is right on the money. Now that the course is on the radar screen and the ownership and staff are rightfully proud of what they have, this could should continue to be a treasured and accessible example of golden age golf course architecture for a long time. That's a good thing.
I enjoyed watching Brad hit the golf ball but was a little disappointed when I eyed the Balco bag tag. While he's no Matt Ward, he can move some furniture.
Brad was a little rusty with the wedge but naturally stiffed it at 18 to break 80. Yours truly played well but was around 90 due to continued chipping problems and a bit of gamesmanship (apparently a Wis. thang) by Brad on the 6th after I parred four of the first five.
More on the golf courses later.
Mike