[Dan Herrmann]

^^^
Why?   Some quick observations:

• The bunkering is obviously an ANGC knockoff.   It works at Augusta, but I don't think it works anywhere else.
• The sense of trying to be perfect.   Golf courses aren't supposed to be perfect.  Financially, I can't understand why the members would pony up for perfection when they could save a ton of money by eliminating the work on the last 5-10% to give it that "perfect vibe".   
• I think they could lose a ton of trees and still have too many.  Oakmont and Philly Cricket are perfect examples of expert tree management.
• I thought the course was boring on TV.   I fully admit that this is a crappy way to judge a golf course, but it's all I have available here.   I found Hanse's work at TPC Boston to be far, far superior.
• Nothing to do with golf course architecture, but I'm guessing their halfway house cost 10x what my own home cost.   What a waste of money.  (https://glenoaksclub.org/getattachment/22f7bea0-41ae-4fde-9b43-f63470d16303/SPLASH_GOC_HW_6.aspx)
• I was really upset by the mowing patterns in the rough.  It's rough, for crying out loud.   It's not supposed to look like Yankee Stadium's outfield!
• I hate those fountains in the ponds.  They're noisy and don't belong.   If you have an algae problem, use bubblers or food coloring.

[Robert Mercer Deruntz]

Having played Glen Oaks regularly the past 25 years, it really deserves credit for a wonderful transformation.  The property and surrounding properties are hilly clay based oak forest.  Unlike most courses that receive heavy criticism on this site for being Christmas tree farms, this course was cut out through the trees, and in the past seven years, thanks to Sandy and Irene, lost thousands of trees.  In the town of Old Westbury, it takes a lot of effort and a permit to cut a tree with over 18 inches of diameter at the trunk. 
As for the Augusta look, a Ballyneal look in a forest would be out of place. Glen Oaks is far from perfect, but the improvements are tremendous.  And the halfway house is impressive, but that is what the membership wants, and there probably are less than 20 clubs in the US with a wealthier membership! 

[Steve Lapper]

^^^
Why?   Some quick observations:

• The bunkering is obviously an ANGC knockoff.   It works at Augusta, but I don't think it works anywhere else.
• The sense of trying to be perfect.   Golf courses aren't supposed to be perfect.  Financially, I can't understand why the members would pony up for perfection when they could save a ton of money by eliminating the work on the last 5-10% to give it that "perfect vibe".   
• I think they could lose a ton of trees and still have too many.  Oakmont and Philly Cricket are perfect examples of expert tree management.
• I thought the course was boring on TV.   I fully admit that this is a crappy way to judge a golf course, but it's all I have available here.   I found Hanse's work at TPC Boston to be far, far superior.
• Nothing to do with golf course architecture, but I'm guessing their halfway house cost 10x what my own home cost.   What a waste of money.  (https://glenoaksclub.org/getattachment/22f7bea0-41ae-4fde-9b43-f63470d16303/SPLASH_GOC_HW_6.aspx)
• I was really upset by the mowing patterns in the rough.  It's rough, for crying out loud.   It's not supposed to look like Yankee Stadium's outfield!
• I hate those fountains in the ponds.  They're noisy and don't belong.   If you have an algae problem, use bubblers or food coloring.

Dan,

• Imitation may well be the highest form of flattery here. Several other courses have tried to replicate or imitate the "looks & lines of ANGC, most less successfully than Glen Oaks. It may not be natural in Old Westbury, but it does work for the club, its members and guests.
• I agree with you that courses aren't meant to be perfect, but heaven knows 90+% of those putting themselves at the altar of the PGA Tour strongly wish to present themselves as such!
• Glen Oaks probably has the "perfect vibe" for its membership. I was able to last play it with a member of the club's board and he reports that members are very, very happy with it....and I believe him!
• They, like most other places, could continue to constructively shed more trees, but the site was a dense hardwood forest not too long ago and like RMD added, it's a regulatory nightmare to take down all the trees you'd like to fell. I don't think Oakmont or PCC had those restrictive handcuffs. Luckily, Hurricane's Irene & Sandy (and many usual Nor'esters) have done miracles throughout the Northeast.
• TV offers only a one-to-two dimensional perspective and I suspect you'd be far less offended should you ever see it in person. I know you are a Gil Hanse fan,(as am I), but there is something quite positive to be said for what accomplished at Glen Oaks.
• Their HH was designed to allow their members the opportunity to eat a full lunch between nines. It is sumptuous and elaborate, but Glen Oaks cuisine is amongst the best found anywhere and undeniably defines the club's personality and reputation. The quality and range of food there is unparalleled in golf.
• The rough was murderous the week before the tournament, causing Slugger White and pals to ask the club to cut it. They did, however local lore reveals that a certain superintendent super-fertilized it concurrently.
• I fully agree with your re: ugly conical pond fountains...they are hideous. Definitely one of my pet peeves and a cheesy feature. PS....there is one on the dumbest hole at the place.

[Dan Herrmann]

Thanks- good info


I'm still not a fan, but I absolutely appreciate the comments.

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