Theres never been a better time to play golf. With warm Wallowa weather, fairways mowed to golfers satisfaction, no tee times or overcrowding, a helpful management, and only a short drive down Golf Course Road its easy to make Alpine Meadows a vacation habit.

During extremely hot summer days, enjoy the peacefulness of the course with a quick nine holes in the early morning light or late evening when long shadows stretch across the fairways.

No matter the time of day, Alpine Meadows thrives. Last week a two-day Junior Clinic, conducted by Heather Bruce, gave youngsters an opportunity to learn basics of the game. She also held a Chipping Clinic for 11 women interested in perfecting their game. Bruce, a Lewis & Clark graduate, is interested in becoming a golfing coach.

Scotch ball on Friday evenings is a favorite with couples. Ladies Day with 25 members continues its Tuesday schedule, Mens League is Wednesday evening, and Mens Day is on Thursday until noon. Course management encourages family reunion groups, small tournaments and youth to use the facilities. The Enterprise and Wallowa/Joseph high schools practice and play the course in springtime and summer months. Larger tournaments, and local Eastside Seniors, who host close to 60 players from towns in eastern Oregon once a season, are money-makers for Alpine Meadows.

Trout Creek and tall trees remain a diabolical hazard to golfers. The pond is also a water hazard as well as several sand bunkers, but it is so rewarding to the golfer when he/she hits a good clean shot to the green avoiding all the perils.

The annual Ladies Invitational played Tuesday, Aug. 12. Gals from Baker, La Grande, Buffalo Peak, and Clarkston competed with the Alpine Ladies. Scores will be printed next week. First place in scramble play on Tuesday were Heather Bruce and Janie McArtor. Blind Partner, Gross and Net Skins scores from Mens Day and league play not available.