Pat:
Keep this in mind, the USGA will not likely go to second or third tier cities that already have an Open site being used regularly. For example, I dont' see Phila or The Steel City having another Open location -- even if the $$ and the existing courses could have such work done -- because they have Merion and Oakmont already involved.
Likely, I see a return visit to Torrey Pines as a real possibility because it's proven as a tournament site and it handles the entire SoCal area which is a must location for the USGA. Of course, should Riviera decide to jump into the fray that would prove interesting.
Tanglewood was mentioned but I see plenty of buzz with nearby Quail Hollow and clearly the involvement of Pinehurst #2 would tend to push away another Open site for that area.
What people don't realize is that BB has the course -- but it also has the logistics, proximity to a major metro area and plenty of room for all the elements that a 21st century major requires.
Cliff H:
I feel you are taking things a bit too far ... the folks who play Bethpage were not being patronized but saluted for their love of the game.The Maltbie piece did that very well I thought.
Phil McDade:
Just an FYI -- the Women's Open is now played at sites which are not immediately in or next to major metro area. This allows the event to blossom as the top sport dog -- the Women being at Saucon Valley will do that. Having the biggest event in women's golf in a major metro area -- like NY or Chicago or LA would prove to be a big time disappointment. The event routinely loses $$ and getting it to places that are not top tier metro areas allows the event to take more of the spotlight and fanfare.
Your thoughts on Lawsonia Links are spot on -- a Women's Open would be grand stuff there. However, I see the involvement of Erin Hills and Whistling Straits cutting into that desire.
Matthew Rose:
There was talk awhile back -- in having the USGA create their own course at their HQ in Far Hills, NJ. The talk was merely speculative and I believe never went further than that.