Update on the Mistwood Golf Course – Feb 21,2020

I had the opportunity of talking to Robby Ellingson who now is a manager/owner of the Mistwood course with his father.  His grandmother (Sherm Barstaad’s sister) had a financial interest in the course. Here’s a summary of our discussion:

• Rates will remain the same at $15 green fees and $10 cart fees per week of league play

• As in previous years, there will be a lump sum payment of green fees ($240) per member

• Penny has been offered a position and they are eager to have her

• Course improvement goals will primarily focus on increased work on the course.  Robby is certified in fertilization and he expects to be spraying.  He said they would be punching greens and dressing. He commented that is hasn’t occurred in many years. Winterization occurred at the end of last season. He sees the importance of the sprinklers being used all the time. 

• Rather than just raking the traps, he wants to till the traps and add a lot of “sweat labor.”

• The shotgun start will still continue.

• No decisions yet on the kitchen.  He did comment that last year was very problematic regarding consistency of the kitchen and bar; he recognizes that something needs to be done.

• They will have a Mistwood players card this year.  No details yet.

• He’s hoping to bring the quality of Mistwood up to that of Bahle Farms. 

• He really appreciated our loyalty and recognizes that leagues are the backbone.

• Robby plans to be a Mistwood for three 6 week periods this year, so he can really get a handle on the operations. 

Rick “Hitman” Sanok