For what it is worth, I favor the short to mid length par 4 opener, followed by a short par 5 to string out the play. But the key is absolutely no OB to a side of first or second hole. Lateral hazard water is marginally OK on second hole, but first needs to present little or no reason to hunt for a ball, or hit provisionals or worse, go back to tee if provisional was not thought of by the entry level golfer. In public facilities, I think it is wise to have the practice range a part of the package for the green fee in that a courtesy small bucket of 20 balls should be given. And, at least an adjunct putting green near the first tee for those waiting to tee off to get into the feel of the greens. The first hole need not be a wimp however. I think it should have wide fairways but a very focused preferred LZ. Tee balls not placed well should find themselves with dicey un-level lies. Use of diagonal ridges through the fairway are good here at the opening fairways. The second shot should face not too severe bunkers (depth and placement wise) or diverting bounce mounds to collection areas guarding or surrounding the green if appraoached from these less than ideal places in the fairway. I believe the green should be available with a short to mid iron, (9-7I), and the green should be large and undulating. The challenge should be the putt, though not a green of endless putting. I am in the Ross camp with the handshake and welcoming opening holes. They should be interesting, strategic, but offer brisk flow from the start.