Atkinson Resort Blog

Golf Insights from PGA Certified Teaching Professional- Brian Diamond Part 3

joshua@lewisbuilders.com (Lewis Builders Development ) — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 16:22:00 GMT

Pre-Shot Routines

Do you have a pre-shot routine? This is a ritual for many low handicap and professional golfers. However, you do not have to be in this category to develop an effective pre-shot routine/ritual. In fact, this just may be one of the most important aspects of the game that could help to lower your scores and handicap.

In developing a pre-shot routine, I like to discuss three components; Target, Visual/Mental and Physical.

Target - Standing directly behind the ball, visualize an imaginary line running through your ball to the intended target. We will call this your target line. Pick something in front of your ball, that is on your target line, which can be used to help with proper alignment of your club face and body when you address the ball. Examples might be an old divot, leaf or just some discolored grass that stands out to your eye. Let's call this the intermediate target. When addressing the ball, I prefer to align my clubface first, to my intermediate target, and then set my feet, hips and shoulders when I take my stance to address the ball.

Visual/Mental - Try to visualize the shot that you are going to play in your pre-shot routine. Practicing visualization can help to get your mind focused on shot execution instead of swing mechanics. Positive mental thoughts of how you want the ball to take off, curve, land and even roll will give your mind reinforcement to execute the shot at hand. We are trying to avoid negative thoughts that might want to creep in like not wanting to hit the ball out of bounds, in the water, etc. or swing mechanics which should be thoughts only for the practice tee or your practice swing. I like to tell myself that I am going to hit this ball right at my target or I am going to smoke this drive or I am going to sink this putt and often this positive self-talk makes a big difference.

Physical - Take a few practice motions, next to the ball, before each shot. For full swings, I like to take the club about half way back and half way through to feel my proper tempo through the impact zone. I also like to swish the grass to make sure my club is hitting the ground in the proper spot which helps with ball position in my stance. This also helps me to relax and reduce any tension prior to the shot. For chipping, pitching and putting, I like my practice swings to match the exact distance back and through and speed needed to execute the shot at hand.

Give some thought to developing your own pre-shot routine and try it in your practice sessions and on course play.

Brian Diamond, PGA

PGA Certified Professional - Teaching/Coaching/Player Development

Golf Insights from PGA Certified Teaching Professional, Brian Diamond- Part 2

joshua@lewisbuilders.com (Lewis Builders Development ) — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 21:20:48 GMT

With the golf season coming to an end in the Northeast, many of you will be traveling to warmer climates to play golf. Some may be heading to the Southeast while others are heading for the West Coast, Hawaii or other warm weather winter destinations. Knowing how the weather and the environment affect your ball flight will be helpful.

Wind - did you know that a headwind hurts ball flight more than a tailwind helps? When you hit into a headwind your shots carry shorter, fly higher and land steeper. When you are hitting into the wind, spin is the enemy. Trying to swing harder is not the answer as it likely will create more club speed and more spin. Instead, take a lower lofted club than normal to optimize spin. I always remember the saying "swing it easy when it's breezy" when hitting into the wind. A tailwind will produce shots that carry longer, fly lower and land flatter. The best bet in a tailwind is to try and launch the ball higher so that it will land steeper and stop quicker.

Temperature, humidity and air pressure all effect air density. Denser air will create a shorter carry and less dense air will create a longer carry. Changes in humidity and air pressure have very little effect on your ball flight. However, changes in temperature will have the greatest effect on your ball flight. Warmer temperatures will increase distance by as much as 1 yard for every 10 degrees of temperature change. Other factors such as the amount of close worn, increased muscle flexibility and elasticity of the golf ball can make the distance increase even larger in warmer weather.

Altitude can also have an effect on ball flight. Higher altitudes have less air density which will create longer carry, lower ball flight and flatter landing. Because of this, the ball will release more than normal when it lands. You can adjust by launching the ball higher to increase your land angle. Distance gains will vary for golfers based on club speed and trajectory so "tee it high and let it fly" when playing at a higher altitude.

Brian Diamond, PGA

PGA Certified Professional - Teaching/Coaching/Player Development

Golf Insights from PGA Certified Teaching Professional, Brian Diamond

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 19:55:56 GMT

Golf Insights - 1

November 15 marked the end of the Active Season for your Atkinson Resort & Country Club USGA golf handicap. For me, I am sad to see and feel the warm golf weather leave us but excited for the opportunity to reflect on my 2021 Stats and plan for 2022 with new goals and practice plans.

Today, I want to talk to you about your personal STATS. I love the USGA GHIN App and the ability to enter Hole-By-Hole scores with STATS. Are you taking advantage of this opportunity to enter and track your STATS? Whether you use the USGA GHIN App, or another tracking service, there is GOLD IN YOUR NUMBERS, to help you improve your game.

Personally, this year I set a goal to play more golf (Less than 20 rounds in the past few years) and lower my handicap to 4 or better (from 6.5). I am proud to say that I accomplished both goals by playing 35 18-hole rounds and finishing with a 3.3 index.

One of the STATS we can track is Greens in Regulation (GIR). For me, this was my focus in 2021 to reach my handicap index goal of 4 or better. My driving accuracy and putting has traditionally been the strength of my game. Hitting more greens in regulation was my opportunity!

The first thing I did was get fit properly for new irons. I've always had irons that were bent 2 degrees flat. This year, I changed to new irons that are 4 degrees flat and 1/2" short of standard length. I have always had the feeling my irons were too long and upright (for me), but never made the conscious effort to fit them "properly" to my swing. With my old irons, I would fight a hook and that swing actually caused periodic lower back issues. I'll never forget the first 9 holes I played (back nine at ACC), with the new irons. I hit all 9 greens in regulation!! This was an eye opener for me and very exciting!!

I know that if I hit 10 or more greens in regulation, it is going to be a good day. Although I did not track my STATS in years past, I had a feeling my average GIR was about 8 per round.

For this season, I was able to get my average up to 10.09 and it is 11.71 for the 8 current scores that reflect my handicap index of 3.3. I also have not had any back issues this year even though I played and practiced more than in past years. I attribute this in large part to finally having properly fit irons.

This is just one example of how tracking your STATS and setting personal goals for improvement can help you on your journey for better golf. Many of the students that I meet with, for the first time, do not track their stats. As a teacher and coach to my students, I want to know as much about their golf game as possible to help them with their goals. We all want to play better golf. Working on swing faults and swing mechanics is important but only part of the solution.

This is the perfect time of the year to reflect on your 2021 goals, scores and STATS and set a plan for 2022. The Willowcreek Golf Academy is open year-round and we have a tremendous TEAM of Instructors to help you with your golf goals as we head into the New Year. Reach out to any of us, at the link below, as we look forward to a great winter season of training at the WGA

https://www.atkinsonresort.com/meettheinstructors

Thank you,

Brian Diamond, PGA

PGA Certified Professional - Teaching/Coaching/Player Development

The Aeration Process

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 20:08:39 GMT

Have you ever wondered what exactly happens to a golf course during the aeration process? Aeration is performed to relieve soil compaction, stimulate root growth and improve drainage. Eric Whitmore, our Golf Course Superintendent, explains step-by-step what needs to be done in order to properly aerate the course here at Atkinson Resort & Country Club.

Step 1 : Vertical Mowing (Verticut) of the Green with a Graden.

Vertical Mowing is done when you want to remove excessive leaf growth that can contribute to puffy surface conditions. It helps dislodge Poa annua seedheads and allows for open grooves in the turf canopy to help incorporate sand for a smoother surface.

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Step 2- Backpack off the Verticut clippings and pick them up.

Step 3- Core Aerate with 1/2” Coring tines with Procore 648

Aeration is the process by which holes are put into the greens to allow for (air) to be able to get into the soil beneath the green. Aeration is needed when the soil beneath the surface of the green becomes compacted. When the soil is compacted, the grass roots struggle to breathe.

Step 4- The Cores are picked up with a Pro-Sweep. However, if the surface is too small we will pick up the cores by hand with shovels.

Step 5 - Topdress the greens with enough sand to fill all of the aeration holes and verticut grooves. This improves infiltration and greens firmness.

Step 6 - Drag the sand into the holes with a brush called a TB 200. This brush actually has two round brushes on it that spin in reverse directions allowing for the sand to be brushed in perfectly. You of course will have to wait for the sand to rid of all moisture before brushing because you then have a chance of the holes bridging, and not filling all of them properly. If this happens you could have scalping later on in the season because those sections will not be as firm as the rest.

Step 7 - Blow off the excess sand with a pro force turbine blower.

Step 8 - Fertilize the greens.

Step 9- Irrigate the fertilizer and sand into the surface.

Final Product of Aeration!

3 Reasons Why Your Hydrangeas Aren’t Blooming

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 13:36:06 GMT

We received an overwhelming amount of questions about Hydrangea care, so we sat down with our Grounds Crew expert, Melissa McNeal and here is what we learned about why your Hydrangeas might not be blooming:

1. Lack of sunlight & ill-timed pruning- This could be a common culprit, as Hydrangeas need about five hours of sunlight per day (morning sunlight is preferred) for best flowering. You should prune them once growth begins in the spring. Hydrangeas bloom on old wood, so the flower bud develops the year before it blooms. Pruning in summer or fall can result in flower buds being pruned off- so hold out until spring!

*This same pruning schedule also applies to Forsythia

2. Environmental Factors- The environment can also result in affected blooms. Winter weather can damage buds due to low temperatures, fluctuating temperatures or late freeze events. Cold spring and cooler summer can reduce blooms or delay blooming. Furthermore, droughts (if severe enough) can affect flowering the year of the drought as well as the subsequent year.

3. Over watering and over fertilizing- Plants need well-drained soil with good moisture for best growth. Too much nitrogen fertilizer will result in deep green leaves but fewer flowers. Whereas fertilizers higher in phosphorus rather than nitrogen encourages bloom growth.

We understand that gardening can be intimidating, if you have more questions please send them to Lauren at lhusson@atkinsoncc.com

Why You Should Have Business Meetings Over Breakfast

Thu, 17 Jan 2019 21:00:34 GMT

Taking clients or employees out to lunch is a pillar of office culture. But with busy schedules and tight company budgets, it might seem like an ordeal. Lunches can not only be expensive, but you must plan your whole day around it. Even then, you could spend upwards of two hours entertaining company.

Consider instead that a breakfast meeting might be better suited for a business meeting.

1. Breakfast is more economical

There is nothing wrong with going all out for lunch but consider who you are meeting with and how long you intend for this to be. The itinerary for a lunch could include drinks, appetizers, lunch, possibly a second or even third drink. It won’t take much effort for that final bill to shoot upwards of $50.

With breakfast, however, meals are famously economical, and you will still get a lot of it. Scrambles loaded with meats and veggies, crispy toast, and hearty home fries; rich, creamy benedicts with sides of savory bacon or corned beef hash; or even a classic breakfast sandwich will still generally keep below the $10 mark for each person. Defer alcohol in favor of coffee for two people, and that alone saves you around $12.

2. Breakfast is not only ‘the most important meal of the day’, it’s also the first

You will commonly hear people say they do certain things first thing in the morning, like read the newspaper or exercise, before they’ve done anything else. That way they have a clear head to enjoy these activities before the challenges of the work day arise and cloud their focus.

This can be true for a breakfast meeting as well. At lunch, you have every excuse to cancel; a deadline just got pushed ahead, a project dropped on you unexpectantly, or maybe you are just not that hungry.

At breakfast, the meeting will be the first thing you do in the morning. You will start fresh, be able to focus completely on the person sitting in front of you, and above all else, you won’t have to rush right into the office and be welcomed with possible chaos.

3. Breakfast food can increase your energy instead of reducing it

Again, there is certainly nothing wrong with getting a beer or a glass of wine with lunch. But though clients should be treated, there is nothing worse after impressing a guest than feeling sluggish performing the rest of your tasks during the second half of your day.

Fill your empty stomach with nutrient-rich foods like eggs and fruit and sip on a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of juice to give you the endurance you will need for the day.

4. Morning meetings

In an article published in Forbes magazine , Lady Barbara Judge described her experience meeting with clients during breakfast while she worked in finance. She described her conversion to the “business breakfast” in the 1980s and why she hasn’t forgotten how special it is.

“...breakfast is finite: It usually runs for about an hour- which suits a busy schedule! It still allows for the ‘bread-breaking’ experience, but only giving up one hour out of your day. By contrast, lunch can last 2 hours or even 3 if you have a particularly boozy luncheon guest, or an un-busy client who wants to feel busy by spending the day with you.”

Alleviate yourself of the anxieties of returning to the office for a task you have set up yourself and focus on the task at hand: enjoying a great meal with your invited guest.

5. BONUS: Morning meetings can offer more breathing rooms in terms of time

While breakfast meetings tend to be a little shorter, don’t forget that you still deserve time to think critically and spend time with your guest. Unlike diners and small breakfast joints who tend to flip tables as fast as possible, with the right restaurant, you have a chance to relax, take in a view, and forget about the pressure of leaving in a timely fashion.

With scratch kitchens like ours, you get the time you need to spend with your client, fantastic food to enjoy as you talk shop, and you can keep yourself under budget.

What to Know About Club Fitting: Irons

Tue, 21 Aug 2018 18:18:15 GMT

In our last edition of What to Know About Club Fitting, we discussed the necessary preparation for the club fitting. Today, we'll explore the first steps of the club fitting experience.

After loosening up and hitting some warm up shots at Willowcreek Golf Academy, our club fitting specialist JT Dowd will show golfers to one of their three private coaching studios.

Each coaching studio features a multi-camera V1 Pro Video Analysis Software with Branded Academy, and Trackman. With these technologies, the club fitting specialist can measure important qualities of your swing based on the speed of the ball, the amount of spin you give it, and the balls flight path.

“Each player’s target numbers will be different, but we usually want players to hit their shots a certain height, in the range of 20-30 yards high, with enough spin to help them hold a green,” JT said.

To start, JT prefers the golfer use a seven iron. Seven iron is typically the iron manufacturers supply as their fitting clubs, and he wants to be able to compare a player’s current clubs to the new models that are available.

The golfer then takes a few practice swings with their club while the fitter monitors the flight pattern of the ball. These shots are played from a mat that replicates a fairway lie, yet keeps the golfer in a consistent, fixed place.

The golfer then takes several shots. Each time, the launch monitor measures key factors such as the balls carry distance, total distance, club speed, spin, height and land angle.

Once your swing characteristics have been narrowed down, the club fitter will put together "typically anywhere from three to five irons" based on the analytics. At Willowcreek Golf Academy, the club fitting specialists can put together customizable clubs with unique heads and shafts. Willowcreek Golf Academy builds sets of clubs using brands such as Titleist, Ping, Callaway, Mizuno, and TaylorMade.

Each player’s swing speed and delivery will help the fitter determine the correct shaft material (graphite or steel) and flex (ladies, senior, regular, stiff, extra stiff), as well as the lie angle. Once the selection is complete by the club fitting specialist, the golfer will work with the different clubs while they continue to be monitored.

"Typically, you give customers a couple to work with at first," said JT. "But eventually one or two clubs will start to show themselves as the most consistent, or give the golfer better feel and feedback.” From there small tweaks will help the fitter, and golfer, determine which model will be best for them.

Once you find the right club for you, your irons are finished. For JT, this process is crucial considering the ubiquity of irons on the course.

"When it really comes down to it, a club fitting is important for three reasons," said JT. "It will help you hit more solid shots; it will help you hit it farther; and it will help you have more fun. There is nothing more discouraging than people who want to play but just end up getting frustrated because they aren't using the equipment that's right for them."

Stay tuned for our next article on fitting for drivers. If you are ready to schedule an appointment, reach out to JT today at jt@atkinsoncc.com.

Club Fitting 101

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 14:52:48 GMT

Club Fitting 101- Getting Started

Are you noticing something wrong with your golf game? Have you undergone a series of mishit shots? Do you notice that all your clubs seem to reach the same distance?

Then it might be time for a club fitting. And what is a club fitting exactly?

"Club fitting is essentially making sure a player's equipment works for them, and their swing," said JT Dowd, club fitting specialist for Atkinson Resort & Country Club.

If you aren't seeing the results that you are looking for, it may be the equipment, and not necessarily how you are using it. In this multi-part series, we explore the process of club fitting from beginning to end. We will help answer every question from what proper attire should you wear to how you should follow up with your club fitting specialist after you have gone through the fitting.

Getting Started

This part of the series we've dedicated to getting started with the club fitting experience: what to expect, how to dress, the best time of year, etc.

According to JT, there is no bad time of year to get your clubs fitted. Whether you're halfway through the golf season or you're twiddling your thumbs in the dead of winter, the club fitting experience can help you reset your focus and explore a new approach to your golf game. Fitting centers like the one at Willowcreek Golf Academy in Atkinson run year around and feature heated bays so you won't have to be deterred about the snow and cold!

When should I book my club fitting?

To start, JT says that you should schedule your club fitting at least a week in advance. This allows the instructor and the fitter to discuss a plan that adheres to the player's needs.

Be sure that the club fitting specialist is someone who is willing to work with you and listen to your philosophy around your current set of clubs.

"Find someone who is willing to spend time with you and is open to your feedback," JT says. "Numbers are important in club fitting, but the golfer needs to trust the clubs and have faith in them on the course."

What should I wear?

Once you've established a date for your club fitting, remember a few basic preliminary things before you go in. First, when you're deciding what to wear, consider what you usually sport on the golf course.

"Something comfortable that you can swing in," says JT. "A lot of players prefer golf clothes to mimic their playing experience."

What should I bring?

Second, bring your current set of golf clubs. As the club fitting specialist monitors your warm up, they will get a sense of what your swing is like and what factors into your swing speed.

Lastly, JT suggests bringing an open mind. This will help the fitter break away from bad habits, for example someone who claims to be loyal to a brand like Titleist but is better suited for a set of Ping clubs (details on this later).

What's next?

Once you've become warmed up, you're ready to start. When you get your clubs fitted at Atkinson Resort & Country Club, JT will work with you in one of three upstairs training rooms.

From there, JT uses the specially designed technology at Willowcreek Golf Academy to start monitoring your swing.

"We start with the players own equipment to get a baseline of data on the swing and ball flight, and then move into new clubs to dial in the performance and build consistency."

But what club does JT recommend you start with? What's the difference between TaylorMade and Callaway? And what does our video analysis software test for? Stay tuned for the next article in the club fitting series where we discuss irons .

Keeping Greens Green and More Tips from a Golf Course Maintenance Expert

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Our Golf Course Superintendent, Eric Whitmore has been working on perfecting our greens and fairways for years – in fact, he said, “ we are blessed to have a solid crew that works year-round on the course and has combined over 125 years of experience.” We’d say that he’s a subject matter expert on golf course care. We caught up with Eric to talk about all the things he does around our golf course throughout the seasons to keep playing conditions ideal.

Did you know that, by season you need to do certain things to maintain a course? Eric offers the following:

SPRING

“The first thing that comes to mind as far as seasonal maintenance is aeration. Aeration is performed in late spring and early fall. Core aeration involves physically removing small soil cores from the turf. Aeration holes allow excess moisture to evaporate and promote gas exchange in the soil, resulting in stronger root systems and turf that is better able to tolerate golfer traffic. The addition of sand, both firms and smooths the green surface allowing for consistent roll and speed.

Every spring we apply pre-emergent herbicides in combination with fertilizer to ensure high quality weed-free roughs and green surrounds. At this time we will also apply wetting agents to improve water holding capacity of soils to help ensure quality turf in areas where we are lacking in irrigation. Most of the chemical applications have to be made in conjunction with rain fall events to ensure the chemical makes its way into the soil.”

SUMMER

“In the summer when temperatures spike above 80 degrees, all cool-season turf grasses (i.e. annual bluegrass, creeping bentgrass) are in danger of heat stress. The turf will wilt and if temperatures stay hot enough, it will eventually die. Greens are the most susceptible to high temperatures because of the low mowing height. With so little biomass the plant cannot sustain the heavy injury that turf at higher mowing heights can withstand. Syringing implies a light application of water to the green surface in its entirety. It is not an adequate amount of H2O to sustain plant life, but more of an effort to reduce soil and plant tissue temperatures. Timing is a key factor in deciding when to syringe. At points during the day when temperatures rise is often when the golfer will see the crew syringing typically early afternoon. This simple yet important process has saved, and will save, numerous greens. We apologize for the inconvenience it may cause but know that we would not do it if it were not important.”

FALL

“In the fall we are inundated with falling leaves and must take the extra time to clean playing surfaces prior to and after mowing. Mother nature typically does not cooperate, with swirling winds and morning frost that further delay our attempts to ensure quality playing conditions. It is also at this time that we must blow out the miles of irrigation lines on the property to prevent as much freeze damage as possible to the extensive irrigation system.”

WINTER

“During the winter we attempt to remove ice cover from greens as quickly and safely as possible. Ice coverage on greens creates anaerobic conditions and build ups of toxic gases that can kill turf. We have to weigh the benefits of removal, timing of removal, and potential for mechanical damage to greens to make the decision of when to start breaking it up. This is also a time of year where we do a lot of tree limb trimming and brush removal.”

Courses require certain chemicals to remain playable. Eric said, “There is a plethora of chemicals and nutrients used on sports turf surfaces. From greens, tees, rough, fairways, to clubhouse lawns, all are treated specifically to their own needs. Soil tests are preformed throughout the year on all surfaces to determine exact nutritional needs and applications are made accordingly. Fungicide and Insecticide applications are based on timings of disease and insect pressures. All chemical applications are posted at the Starter Shack.”

Would you like to learn how to maintain a golf course or grass in general? Consider Eric’s advice below:

“The greatest teacher is experience, however, having a solid foundation of knowledge in plant physiology, plant pathology, and chemistry are crucial to making the right decisions in both chemical applications and cultural practices. Most superintendents earn degrees in Turf Management or other Horticultural fields. Knowing and loving the game of golf is also very important. It is one thing to know how to maintain healthy turf, but another to know how a course should play, the design aesthetics, and subtleties of course setup and layout. All of which are learned from playing golf and acquiring a good grasp of course etiquette.”

Are you wondering if you have been playing on a badly-kept course? Eric said you probably won’t find one around here. He said, “Course conditions are a result of their inputs. A course with the resources to provide optimum playing conditions will show that. Courses that may appear to be poorly kept are most likely incredibly kept given the resources the superintendent has at their disposal."

The real difficulty associated with course maintenance is upholding standards well before a golfer comes to play. Eric said, “The most difficult part of course maintenance is getting the course in pristine condition before any golfers arrive at the first tee box. Daily maintenance must be completed quickly and cleanly. Every day we are working on the course long before the sun rises. The goal is to put out championship quality conditions on a daily basis without anyone seeing us do it. Any hiccup, whether it be, weather, equipment or personnel, can seriously impact the days maintenance and the courses playability. Our ability to improvise in these situations is what makes us great at what we do.”

As a lawn owner, you can take some pointers directly from our Grounds Crew professionals. Eric said, “The best thing homeowners can do for their lawns is properly timed fertilizer applications. Right around the first time you need to mow your lawn in the spring, you should apply a generic ‘weed and feed’ fertilizer to your lawn. These contain both fertilizer and pre-emergent herbicide to promote healthy turf and prevent weeds like crabgrass all summer long. Another application of fertilizer with grub control should be made in early to mid-June. In the fall, your lawn is looking for the nutrients it needs to recover from summer damage while getting ready for its winter nap. Feeding now will strengthen roots and increase nitrogen storage for a healthy, green lawn next spring.

Water is becoming an ever more precious resource and should be used responsibly. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve seen lawn irrigation systems running in the pouring rain. For ideal lawn conditions, water deeply and infrequently. Be sure to turn off your irrigation for a few days following a rain storm to avoid both wasting water and over saturating your soil, stunting your roots.

When mowing your lawn you never want to cut more than the top 1/3 of leaf blade in a single mowing. This reduces the stress on the plant and ensures you won’t scalp uneven areas of your lawn.

Following these steps should ensure premium year-round lawn conditions.”

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Are you looking forward to hitting the Atkinson course on opening day? So are we! But, if you are looking to stay loose in the meantime, consider a lesson at the Willowcreek Golf Academy or a virtual golf tee time in the Merrill’s Tavern Game Room.

Comedy Night at Atkinson Resort & Country Club

Thu, 22 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Atkinson Resort & Country Club recently hosted a sold-out Comedy Show in our Legacy Ballroom. The event was put together by our long-term Hospitality Sales Manager, Carolyn Heffron and could be described as nothing short of a smash hit. The comedians included veterans like Rob Steen, Paul Nardizzi, and Mark Scalia, but also featured the surprise addition of newcomer, Drew Dunn.

Each performer brought a different flavor to the comedic buffet (which included an actual buffet as well!) Rob Steen joked about kids and made a particularly hilarious comment about how he wanted them, but they just wouldn’t get in his car. However, in our opinion, his vocal inflections and facial expressions really sold his stories to the audience.

Paul Nardizzi came on second and talked about vehicle capacity when you have a lot of children. He recommended two muscle cars to hold a larger family, but said he ended up with a minivan all the same. Many of the audience members laughed along and nodding with understanding.

Then came our newcomer, Drew Dunn who started his set with the accent of a broadcast sports personality. It was clear that the audience thought that this affect he was putting on might actually be his voice, but he smoothly parlayed that opening into how real-life situations can be enhanced with dramatic reading. Dunn also covered the Millennial angle and had the audience in the palm of his hand.

And finally, Mark Scalia took the stage. Scalia was the headliner for the evening and it was clear why. He started slow, establishing a relationship with the people around him. He covered a variety of accents in America, touched lightly on politics and ended with a hilarious act to the tune of Ginuwine’s “My Pony” that featured pantomimed household chores instead of typical sexy dance moves.

All in all, we think this evening was incredible and hope to have many more like it. Would you like to hear more about our upcoming events? Click here .

Atkinson is YOUR Resort!

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

There are a lot of online voting polls right out there right now and so we wanted to take this time to explain what your vote means to us. As a team, we at Atkinson Resort & Country Club endeavor to be YOUR Resort. When you come to spend the weekend in our Fieldstone Suites or have a beer in Merrill’s Tavern, we want you to feel like our guest…not our customer.

For us, a vote means that you support the Resort and that this Resort is in some part…yours. We want to share our passion for hospitality with you.

For those who don’t know, Atkinson Resort & Country Club is a family business spearheaded by Christine Lewis Morse. And, beyond that, it is actually a part of a larger family of companies; The Lewis Group of Companies. We as a community of companies and people want to help you. For instance...

Are you searching for a new home? Let Lewis Builders quite literally build you your perfect home!

Are you wondering if it’s time for a new snowblower? Ask a friendly face at East Coast Lumber !

Are you looking for a getaway that feels just as warm as your home? Come to Atkinson Resort & Country Club. We have an Eat. Stay. Play. mentality here. We offer delicious food, friendly staff (we like to call them just friends), oversized suites, and unique events. We even like to help you plan and experience your dream wedding .

All of our companies exist for the sole purpose of helping you in every stage of your life, whether that is a major celebratory day or just a Wednesday. You are our guest…not a number.

In conclusion, yes of course we would like your votes in The Hippo Best of 2018 and NH Magazine’s 2018 Poll , but we hope we can earn them based on our relationship. Should you wish to help us make more friends, there are links below for voting. Thank you for being our friend and thank you for supporting your Resort.

Hippo Best of 2018

NH Magazine’s 2018 Best of NH

Tips and Trick from the Pros: Winter Warmups Round II

Tue, 06 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Still feeling like your game is frozen? Matt Prior, Mike Labrie, and Brian Diamond have three more pro tips to help you warm up your game this winter. From a small indoor drill to a more comprehensive lesson-based approach, our goal is to have you playing at your best during all seasons!

Matt Prior

“When you are stuck in the house over the freezing cold months, try replacing the golf ball with coins/ball markers and practice your chipping. If you can consistently hit the smaller object the golf ball will eventually become a piece of cake!

Added bonus - no broken TVs or vases!”

Mike Labrie

“Though the winter may seem like golf’s off-season in this part of the country, it is a great time to hone in and sharpen some of your weakest fundamentals and course management skills.

One of the most common flaws I see in a lot of players is misunderstanding carry distance vs. total distance, especially with wedges and short irons.

Next time you’re hitting balls at the WCGA, pick a very small 2-3 foot target in the snow at about 50 yards - and try to land 3 out of 5 balls within that target area. When that yardage begins to feel comfortable, pick a similar target at about 75 yards and do the same thing. Then 100 yards, increasing by 25 yard increments as great of a distance as you’d like.

This will help you build your understanding of where your golf ball is landing, versus where it ends up around the golf course. Accuracy and distance control are critical in shooting lower scores when the ground thaws. Aim small, miss small.”

Brian Diamond

“Whether you are World #1, Dustin Johnson or a golfer at any level of the game, the kinematic sequence is so important. We all strive to have an efficient golf swing; one that will generate the most speed through the body to the club head. The most efficient sequence is the "Kinematic Sequence."

The amazing thing is that all great ball strikers have a remarkably similar Kinematic Sequence of generating speed and transferring speed throughout their bodies. They begin by generating speed from their lower body and transferring that speed through their torso into their arms and then into the club.

The key points to know are:

There is an identical sequence of speed or energy initiation followed by an identical sequence of energy transfer for all great ball strikers. The sequence of energy initiation is: lower body starts, torso moves next, arms go third and the club starts last. Then the lower body decelerates first, torso second, lead arm third and club shaft last. This is the downswing sequence.
Each segment of the body builds on the previous segment, increasing speed up the chain.
Each segment of the chain slows down as the next segment continues to accelerate.
Sequence is the key to repeatability and consistency. Energy transfer or deceleration is the key to power.”

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There you have it, whether you want to spend the day inside your house practicing your chipping or you’d rather start using our V1 software and heated range, we can help you play a stronger game of golf!

Call 603-362-8700 to book a lesson with our Willowcreek Golf Academy professionals or consider a golf clinic or camp – a full listing of which are located here .

Event Possibilities are Endless at Atkinson Resort & Country Club

Fri, 02 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Spring is undeniably the season of parties and Atkinson Resort & Country Club is the place to have them. No matter what kind of event you are looking to plan, we can help.

Bachelor / Bachelorette Party

No need to go to Vegas…why not host a local Bachelor or Bachelorette Party with your boys or girls featuring pub fare and cocktails in a relaxed setting at Merrill’s Tavern Game Room?

A private party in the Game Room includes state-of-the-art golf simulators, billiards tables, TV’s with the NFL Game Package or Music and cocktail service. Come play with us and then head upstairs to a comfortable, oversized Fieldstone Suite and get the best night’s sleep of your life.

Prom

Here at Atkinson Resort & Country Club we have a dazzling facility. The Legacy Ballroom is a blank canvas waiting for your Prom’s theme. With an oversized dance floor in one of the area’s largest ballrooms, the possibilities await! Our outdoor stone pathways are the perfect place for an elegant grand march and offer breathtaking photo opportunities.

Baby Shower

Whether you are planning on inviting a large group of family and friends or just a close knit group of 10 or 15, we have a variety of unique spaces and delicious menus to bring your dream baby shower to life. With the help of our trained events professionals, we will help plan the menu and room setup for a stress-free event.

Bridal Shower

If you are an Atkinson bride, your bridal shower will be a great opportunity to show a select few the location of your upcoming wedding.

And while we hope you choose us for your special day, if you have decided to marry elsewhere, we welcome the opportunity to host your bridal shower! We have rooms of all sizes waiting to host your unique event.

Graduation Party

May and June are the months where high school graduates end one exciting chapter and move on to the next adventure; college. Send them off in style by hosting their graduation party at Atkinson Resort & Country Club! We will help plan your menu and room set up so that you can spend your time celebrating this important life milestone with family and friends.

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Hosting an event at a facility like Atkinson Resort & Country Club has several advantages.

Leave the prep and cleaning up to us!
You don’t have to worry about logistics (do I have enough chairs? Are we handicap accessible? Who is bringing the wine? What caterer should I hire?)
You don’t have to cook!
Guests will have access to overnight lodging if they are coming from a distance.

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As you can see planning an event here at Atkinson Resort & Country Club offers you limitless possibilities. Would you like to learn more? Contact our Hospitality Sales Manager, Carolyn to get started.

Tips and Tricks from the Pros: Winter Warmups

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

At first brush, winter can seem like the end of the world for golfers (at least ones that are New Englanders!) The snow comes down and covers the fairways, the cool air leaves frost on the greens, and the pins are pulled from the ground for the season.

However, there are many ways to stay loose during the winter season. Read on so that when the first day of spring arrives and you get that call that the course has reopened, you’ll be ready. Here are three tips and tricks that you can use to stay loose this winter from our Willowcreek Academy golf professionals.

Nick Antonelli

“For those of you that haven’t touched the clubs in a couple months, here is a good warm up plan for your first few practices of 2018.

Session 1: Review fundamentals - grip, alignment, ball position and posture. Stay with your wedges and short irons and perhaps partial shots. Go over to the artificial green and hole 10 3-footers in a row before you pack up.

Session 2 and 3: If your body feels good after some shorter shots, make some swings with the longer clubs. 75% of your bucket should be hit 7 iron and wedges with the remaining 25% split up between long irons, hybrids and woods.”

JT Dowd

“A good idea for winter practice is to focus on contact and shot shape. A lot of players get distracted by distance while on the driving range, and during the colder months golf balls act differently. Range balls in particular don't go as far as they do when we have temps in the 70's and 80's.

Trying to smash range balls as far as possible can have a negative impact on the swing and can ingrain bad habits. By focusing on contact, balance and consistency players can get much more out of their winter range sessions and hit the ground running in the spring, or when they get to a warmer climate for their winter trips.”

Tom Smith

“I recommend palm up and palm down airplanes. Simply spread your arms as wide as you can starting with your palms facing down, take your golf posture and mimic your golf swing back and forth while keeping your arms wide like wings of an airplane. Do about 10-20 reps, nice and smooth and repeat with palms up for 10-20 reps.”

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As our Director of Golf, Peter Doherty says, tips are great, but lessons are better. Why? Reading a golf magazine tip means your reading a tip that’s generalized, you don’t know if that particular tip will be specific for you. Everyone’s body is different and that’s why it’s better to have golf professionals work with you on an individual basis to get the most out of your game. You can learn more about our instructors and view rates here .

5 Unique New Hampshire Date Ideas

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

In the dead of winter, it’s natural feel restless. Luckily, New Hampshire is the perfect place for exciting excursions with your loved one! Here are some ideas for those who are seeking a unique New Hampshire date.

1. Hiking

Most people would agree that walking and hiking in New Hampshire is an unparalleled experience. Boasting four drastically different and beautiful seasons, even the same spot can look completely unique. Here are some great hiking day trips options!

Crystal Gorge Conservation Area , Haverhill, Massachusetts
The Hampstead Conservation Area , Hampstead, New Hampshire
The Plaistow Town Forest , Plaistow, New Hampshire
The Robert Frost Farm , Derry, New Hampshire
The Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire sites including: Piscassic Greenway Trail, Newmarket and Newfields, New Hampshire, the Tucker & French Family Forest Trail, Kingston and Danville, New Hampshire, the Charles E. Memorial Forest Trail, North Hampton and Rye, New Hampshire, the Powwow River Woodlands Trail, South Hampton, New Hampshire, the Kimball Reserve, Exeter, New Hampshire, the Mast Road Natural Area, Epping, New Hampshire, and finally, the Howard Swain Memorial Forest, Deerfield and Nottingham, New Hampshire
Den Rock Park Trail , Lawrence, Massachusetts
Kendall Pond Conservation Area , Londonderry, New Hampshire
The Massabesic Audubon Center , Auburn, New Hampshire
The Newfound Audubon Center , Hebron, New Hampshire

2. Comedy

Wise people as far back as the Victorian age of literature praised the power of laughter. In fact, Charles Dickens once said, “There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor.” We couldn’t agree more, which is why we feature comedy shows on a regular basis.

In fact, we have one coming up on January 20th featuring three headliners and a delicious buffet meal for just $55 per person! This event is SOLD OUT, but stay tuned and maybe we will offer another chance for you to go on the funniest date around.

3. A Wedding Show

Are you part of a newly engaged couple? Wedding shows and expos can be a fun way to work toward planning your dream wedding. Some, like ours , which is coming up quickly on January 24th even include a meal! Here are two shows where you can come meet our wedding professionals and many of our preferred vendors.

We’re Engaged! Now What? , Atkinson, New Hampshire
Z107 & iHeart Radio Wedding Showcase , Durham, New Hampshire

4. Lessons

Couples lessons are great options because they expand your mind and your skills! Consider any of the following choices with some local providers:

Dance

Krystal Ballroom Dance Studio , Salem, New Hampshire
Granite State Ballroom , Windham, New Hampshire

Cooking

The Culinary Playground , Derry New Hampshire
Taste Buds Kitchen , North Andover, Massachusetts

Golf

Willowcreek Golf Academy , Atkinson, New Hampshire

Yoga

Just Breathe Yoga New Hampshire , Windham, New Hampshire
Yoga Room , Hampstead, New Hampshire
Giving Tree Yoga & Wellness , Haverhill, Massachusetts

5. Volunteer

While it isn’t thought of as a traditional date, there is nothing more rewarding than spending time together while helping others. Here are some ideas to get you started.

The Town of Atkinson lists its volunteer roles right online! If you’re local, consider doing good in your own backyard!
Community Crossroads in Atkinson has several volunteer options ranging from committee roles to fundraising and family support!
Brookhaven Hospice has many different volunteer roles available including: angel program, bereavement support, transitions, organization support, patient and family care, and even a student program!
And - if you are looking for some seasonal good deeds, make sure to donate to Atkinson Resort & Country Club’s Toys for Tots and canned food drives during our annual Light the Tree Celebration! While this event just passed, it’s never too soon to plan to do some good. Also – our holiday event is a perfect romantic or family date!

What night do you call date night? In and around Atkinson Resort & Country Club, date night can be whenever you want it to be! Learn more at atkinsonresort.com .

Pre-Planning Baby Showers, Baptisms and Proms

Tue, 26 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

It’s winter here in New England, but at our Resort, we are already thinking spring. The season of new life, new life events and rites of passage. Although we host events year-round, the spring heralds a flood of new announcements and private parties. Today, we want to provide you with some tips for pre-planning your spring events to minimize stress and maximize fun. Carolyn Heffron, our Hospitality Sales Manager offers, “The key to a successful event is pre-planning. By booking your event early, preferred dates are generally available and working with professionals to plan the event will ensure a smooth and seamless process.”

Figure Out the Guest List

The guest list may ultimately determine where your event will take place, so some forethought needs to take place prior to booking a venue. Decide your rules now …are cousins invited? ...can guest bring dates? ...is this a family event? so that you can be sure you have chosen the right venue.

Choose a Venue

Arguably, the venue is the most important first step for planning any event. Whether it’s a wedding or a family meal, booking a space takes the weight off the shoulders of the host. A professional venue is already clean and ready for guests, has enough cutlery and set up equipment and no one needs to worry about limited bathroom space or handicapped accessibility.

Our Resort offers multiple banquet rooms to accommodate groups from 6 – 600 guests. Let the professionals handle it for you!

Pick a Theme and Assemble Decorations

Winter is the perfect time to stay inside and shop online for decorations or to save money in the retail stores on clearance items. Most stores both online and locally offer big sales during winter to increase revenue during the slow season. Make sure to start buying now to be prepared for the warmer weather when shopping becomes more competitive and expensive.

Plan the Menu

If you are booking a professional venue, they will assist you in choosing options. For instance, here at our Resort we have both buffet and plated meal options for very small events to larger scale events.

However, if you are planning an event that will take place in your house, you will want to spend some significant time coming up with options for all dietary restrictions.

Assign Point People

While a professional venue will have staff who will run the event from start to finish when it comes to food and room set up, point people are a good idea for custom decorations and rules that are specific to your event.

For instance, if you are planning an activity, it’s a good idea to appoint one person familiar with the activity to handle this for you. Carolyn suggests, “enlist those family and friends who have offered to help and assign them with a task. It will help you from having to handle the task and they feel useful and part of the planning process. It’s a win-win!”

Invitations and Thank You Notes

While invitations may be more informal for a baby shower or christening, a handwritten thank you to guests is essential. Take some time now to pre-purchase and possibly pre-address thank you notes to make sure you get them in the mail in a timely manner.

Decide on Vendors

While some will choose to assign a family member to certain traditional vendor roles for smaller events, there is always the option to contract outside talent. One of the options that should be considered for such events is a photographer.

Much like a wedding, a baby shower will go by in the blink of an eye. To make sure that you can relive your memories for years to come, book a photographer. And make sure to book early, because as Spring approaches dates will fill up and you may not get your first choice!

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What tips have you found most helpful when planning an event? Tell us in the comments! If you liked this blog, consider subscribing to receive more like it right in your inbox.

5 Things You Should Know About Our Resort

Tue, 12 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Since joining the team at Atkinson Resort & Country Club I’ve received a lot of feedback from friends and acquaintances. They’re very happy that I’ve found a role within a stable company, but the questions regarding my employment here seem to be consistent. Here are some of them:

· But, what will you do in the Winter?

· That’s a private club, right?

· You’re not a golfer, what else is there?

For those who have experienced our Resort directly, these questions seem silly! Why? Because:

· Atkinson Resort & Country Club is open year-round.

· We are a public facility, which is open seven days per week.

· There is an incredible amount of options to do during all seasons including events, dining and so much more.

With that in mind, I’d like to tell you about five things you could do at our resort during this season and beyond.

Try New Drinks

I personally experienced our Assistant Restaurant Manager, George Hoomis’ Candy Cane Martini last night at our company’s holiday party and let me tell you, it’s delicious! Did you know that our restaurant management staff come up with a new drink special every week! Keep an eye on our Facebook page or our Instagram on Thursdays to see what they’ve concocted. Trust me – it’s worth coming in for.

And, if you simply enjoy a nice glass of vino, Thursdays at our Resort mean half-priced bottles of house wine!

Snowshoeing

Our golf course is more than a place to simply play a round of incredible golf. We offer winter activities. In addition to lessons provided by the highly skilled instructors at Willowcreek Golf Academy , we have snowshoeing options! Keep tabs on our social pages to find out when the conditions are primed! Trust us when we say that there is nothing more relaxing than touring our facility during the season of winter wonder.

Live Music

Living in Amesbury, just over the border of New Hampshire I consistently hear that there isn’t enough live music during the week. Did you know that we have live musicians in Merrill’s Tavern every Wednesday? It’s true! You can check out our website’s calendar for a full listing of performances.

Laugh

We work with Notso to provide top comedians at the Resort on a regular basis. Coming up in January we have a three-pack for just $55 and that includes a scrumptious buffet dinner. You can book your tickets by calling Guest Services at 603-362-8700.

Brunch

I feel like I write about our Sunday Brunch a lot and there’s a good reason for that; it’s phenomenal. Aside from the fact that we’ve won awards for this feature, we consistently receive feedback that our brunch is a cut above. Why? Well, other restaurant brunches are delicious, it’s true, but ours offers a certain air of sophistication. Our Resort is not exclusive, but still manages to provide you with the distinct feeling that you are royalty for the time you spend with us. On top of our regular Sunday Brunch, we also offer more specific brunches for Mother’s Day and Easter, which are always well-attended and received.

Brunch is a time for relaxation and reconnecting and what better place to do so than our beautiful facility?

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I’ve touched on five items the Resort offers patrons today, but we have an ever-changing, always improving list of reasons you should visit. We are open to the public seven days per week, come experience it all!

Why You Should Consider a New Hampshire Staycation

Tue, 12 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

While we would all love to vacation away at least once per season, there are certain times when it just doesn’t work out. For instance, maybe you had to repair a roof this year? Perhaps plane tickets are just a bit too expensive for Aruba? Or maybe you have a new addition to your family like a puppy or a baby. Leaving them alone for an extended period or being far away may not be possible yet. Enter the New Hampshire staycation! Here are our top reasons for you to consider booking a staycation this year.

Affordability

Let’s face it – staycations are just more affordable! Instead of air travel and auto rentals, you can spend your money on attractions. For instance, here are some ideas right around our Resort:

America’s Stonehenge 105 Haverhill Road, Salem, New Hampshire 03079

Canobie Lake Park 85 N. Policy Street Salem, New Hampshire 03079

Robert Frost Farm Route 28, Derry, NH 03038

Cederland Fun Center 888 Boston Road, Haverhill, MA 01835

Carriage Shack Farm 5 Dan Hill RD Londonderry, NH 03053

New England Sports Park 12 South Hunt Road, Amesbury, MA 01913

Mack’s Apples 230 Mammoth Road, Londonderry, NH 03053

The Game Room and Virtual Golf at Merrill's Tavern 85 Country Club Drive, Atkinson, NH 03811

Wherever you choose to go within our fair state, there are really wonderful options for all price points!

Stress Relief

What is that phrase? Best laid plans? Maybe you had best laid plans to go on a long, international vacation, but something got in the way. Often times that sort of situation leads to an impulse to not go on vacation at all due to a lack of planning time.

That’s a mistake. We all need to relax from time to time and a staycation will allow you to get away to a location where you won’t have to deal with washing dishes, doing laundry, and so much more. Give yourself a literal break and book your own restful time even if it’s just 10 minutes down the road!

Shorter Travel

Does this sound familiar? “Are we there yet? Are we there yet? Are we there yet? When will be there?” Yes parents, that is the all-too-real sound of your little ones demanding an exact ETA as you curse the three-hour drive ahead. Don’t let this happen to you! Go somewhere within an hour of your house!

Choosing that option will not only calm your nerves, but will also provide you with an out if your kids decide they can’t sleep in an unfamiliar location (you know it happens!) Spend less time in the car and more time with those you love.

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Are you looking for a place to plan a New Hampshire staycation? Consider one of our Fieldstone Suites at Atkinson Resort & Country Club! We have two on-site restaurants , many incredible events, a workout facility, our own Willowcreek Golf Academy , a championship golf course (18 hole and Par 3), and we are close to some excellent attractions for all ages. Call 603-362-8700 to book your stay!

Wednesday Night Fever

Tue, 14 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday nights, the bar is abuzz with satisfied golfers reminiscing over their games, families bonding over a nightout, and the after-work crowd sharing stories over a couple of cocktails. At 15 minutes past 5 pm, Clint LaPointe enters the room, sets up his guitar, plugs into the PA system, and mingles a bit with the crowd.

The bespectacled performer, based out of Manchester, returns to his equipment just before 6 pm and starts playing the first chords to “Fire and Rain” by James Taylor. The chatter dulls as the diners take a moment to enjoy the music setting the mood for their meals. Even the servers at Merrill’s Tavern sing along under their breath.

As the night goes on, LaPointe jumps from classics like Bill Withers “Ain’t No Sunshine”, “Fly Me to The Moon” by Frank Sinatra, and “Layla” by Eric Clapton. The 28-year-old performer has played “once or twice a month” at Merrill’s for about a year, and plays a number of different genres from rock to reggae to country to folk. At every gig, he shuffles his musical deck and deals out cover tunes based on his perception of the audience.

“I like Merrill’s Tavern, and the country club/resort vibe, because the crowd is usually more sophisticated, and is open to a wide range of music styles,” said LaPointe. “Every night is different at every venue I play, and you really never know how it’s going to turn out. Sometimes you are background and sometimes the whole room comes together in a very organic way and everyone is clapping and sharing the space. But you can’t plan those moments at any venue. Sometimes people want to be left alone, and sometimes they want to be engaged. Knowing how to read the situation is half the battle.”

Merrill’s Tavern has been hosting live music for the past year and a half. The performers set up right along the entrance way to the restaurant, greeting hungry and thirsty patrons with soft melody that’s great to eat to or singalong with.

According to Merrill’s Restaurant Manager Patti Houston, the idea to host live music was intended to bring in more customers on Wednesdays nights, as well as provide current customers with a little something special to spice up their outings at the restaurant.

“We hope to increase business even more and let customers know that they can come enjoy themselves and listen to some great local talent,” said Houston.

Houston decided to find her ideal performers through Paul Costley, the booking agent that runs “NotSo” Costley Productions. From there, the production company sends a rotating cast of performers through to give Merrill’s Tavern a variety of styles, and set lists to ensure that no two Wednesdays are quite the same.

Sharing the stage with LaPointe are some of Costley’s performers and Houston’s favorites such as Brian Gray, Brad Bosse, Sean Dennehy, Amanda McCarthy, and more. While the musicians may play an occasional original tune, both Houston and LaPointe said that the type of music that works best in the Merrill’s Tavern environment is cover tunes.

“Playing cover songs is a great way to get people on your side. If you deliver good music, people will like anything you play,” said LaPointe. “When a room is engaged it’s the perfect opportunity to throw out an original. The only problem with some musicians playing originals is it gets too personal sometimes, and it’s as if they are playing for themselves. I have a ton of original material that I’ve written and performed since I started playing, but they are not ALL restaurant/pub quality songs. When you’re at a venue like Merrill’s Tavern, the most important thing to remember is that you are there for them. Not the other way around.”

Depending on the night, customers can relax to their favorite tunes or will sometimes request an original composition from LaPointe. Mostly, the audience puts in requests for karaoke-worthy tunes.

“The top three in no particular order,” said LaPointe. “’Sweet Caroline’ (Neil Diamond), ‘Country Roads’ (John Denver), ‘Hotel California’ (The Eagles).”

As for LaPointe, his favorite songs to perform are “Deal” by the late, great Jerry Garcia and “Crazy” by Charles Barkley.

“I practice and learn new songs on a daily basis to keep up with the needs of all of the different demographics,” said LaPointe. “My set list is mostly well-known songs that I grew up listening to.”

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Would you like to learn more about our live music events? Follow us on Facebook !

Finding the Balance for Your Dream Wedding on a Budget

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

While in a perfect world every bride and groom would have an unlimited budget for their special day, that often is not the case. Many couples are planning within a set budget and find it overwhelming when beginning the planning process to select options that keep them within their budget while also planning a celebration that is uniquely their own.

Be Flexible . One of the most common misconceptions by couples is that your wedding must be held on a Saturday evening to be a fun and memorable occasion. This thought makes Saturday evening the preferred day of the week by many to host their wedding. Add to this a date falling between May to October and the value of this date increases. In return it has made Saturday evenings the most expensive timeframe to select as it commonly includes higher financial requirements. Think of it like supply and demand, the more something is desired the higher the cost.

If you can be flexible on the day, opting for a Friday, Saturday Day or Sunday wedding, any of these options will provide a cost savings and offer more flexibility and options with venues and vendors. These time frames should not be overlooked as there are many additional benefits as well.

Having a full weekend available allows you to plan other activities with those who wish to continue the celebration or make it a weekend stay with you. Book a tee time for the guys and gals the day before or after, plan an afternoon or night for guests to join you as they arrive to town or prior to their departure and show off your favorite local hot spots, or provide an “Our Favorite Places” list to family and friends offering them suggestions for where to visit and what to see. Just because the wedding starts the weekend or ends it does not mean the celebration must only be during the reception.

Consider the off season . If a Saturday evening is a must for your wedding, this does not mean you are out of luck in the savings department. Selecting an off-season date, November- April will help you stack on some additional savings and provide you that Saturday evening wedding you desire. Many venues and vendors offer extraordinary savings during these months regardless of the day of the week you choose to be wed. Here at Atkinson Resort & Country Club, we offer a 15% discount off our evening wedding packages, a complimentary onsite ceremony and waive the food and beverage requirements. This can be a savings of thousands of dollars on just the venue itself! These off season dates also offer you flexibility in choosing your own ceremony and reception timeframe, include a private wedding suite for the day to get dressed in, and offer a beautifully lit Gazebo for your formal wedding portraits. Wrap yourself in a cozy fur shawl, throw on those UGGS under your wedding dress (we won’t tell your guests) and enjoy all the romance a New England winter night has to offer while you celebrate as husband and wife.

Be Resourceful with your budget. There is another hidden gem of savings many venues offer that we have not yet touched on. Weekday weddings have become hugely popular over the past few years for those seeking a peak season wedding. If you dream of green grass and colorful floral gardens, however you’re looking to find another way to save more of the green in your wallet, a weekday wedding is your ticket! Monday-Thursday is the newest trend in weddings and rightfully so for those who seek the most bang for their buck. Venues and vendors offer up to 20% discounts and often include many additional discounts even freebies for these dates! With some fun weekday dates coming up over the next few years; 8-8-18 , 9-19-19, 2-2-20, 2-12-20, 12-2-12 a weekday wedding is definitely worth considering!

To learn more about how Atkinson Resort & Country Club can accommodate your wedding within your budget, please contact our Wedding Sales Manager, Jennifer Chipman at jennifer@atkinsoncc.com .

Top Ways to Enjoy the Great Indoors this Winter

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Many bloggers focus on the great outdoors, and honestly, it makes sense. We at Atkinson Resort & Country Club are lucky enough to be located on a manicured golf course with incredible sunsets, and an outdoor patio – we get it! However, there are many ways to enjoy the great indoors during the winter months too. Here are ten options you can take advantage of here at our facility and beyond during the chilly season.

Play Games

Cold days are perfect for playing darts, pool or virtual golf. Put your cell phone down, pick up a beer and play a game with friends. At Atkinson Resort & Country Club we have a game room in Merrill’s Tavern where you can do all of these things. If you want to learn more about the Game Room, click here .

Go on a Dinner Date

Have you been in a culinary dinner rut lately? Cooking the same plain chicken breast? Going to the same restaurant and ordering “the usual?” If you need a change of pace, consider attending a specialty dinner event or drink pairing night. Even just choosing a new restaurant for your date can make a world of difference.

We regularly post such options on our dining page .

Enjoy a Show

There really is nothing quite like going out and seeing live entertainment. Whether you are after a play, a concert, or a comedy act, there are a lot of options in and around New Hampshire.

For instance, if you are a thespian, you could consider Portsmouth’s Seacoast Repertory Theatre or Manchester’s Palace Theatre . And, if you are more into music, you could always see a concert at Derry’s Tupelo Music Hall or The Music Hall in Portsmouth. Finally, if you are searching for a more intimate, local event, consider attending our Comedy Night on January 20, 2018. This show features dinner and three comedians, all in a beautiful setting.

Instill a Sense of Community

Winter may be cold, but it is a season filled with warm hearts. Community events abound in the New Hampshire area!

You can volunteer to help your community directly by connecting with a local food pantry or soup kitchen. In fact, here is a convenient list .

You could attend a holiday event like our Jingle & Mingle ! The Jingle & Mingle is a top option for those who want to get together and have a fun time with a large variety of people. While this event was originally created for companies that wanted to host a cooperative office party, it is now that and so much more! Bring friends, neighbors, coworkers and celebrate the holidays together. Dinner, dancing, and drinks – really, what’s better than that?

Or – if you are looking for a kid-friendly way to stay entertained, think about attending our annual Light the Tree Celebration on November 30, 2017! While some activities like the actual tree lighting and hayrides are outdoors, there are many things planned for the indoors such as kids crafts, face painting, pictures with Santa, cooking decorating and so much more.

Do Brunch

Have you ever met someone who doesn’t adore brunch? While we are sure there are a few out there, the majority of people cannot get enough of it! Brunch is an opportunity to spend time with family or rekindle friendship over mimosas.

Did you know that Atkinson Resort & Country Club has an award-winning brunch on Sundays? Call Guest Services to reserve a table at: (603) 362-8700 .

Take a Lesson

From ballroom dancing and vocal lessons to golf, the cold weather means extra time to learn. A quick Google search yields the nearby Queen City Ballroom Dance Studio for dance enthusiasts, and Let’s Play Music and Make Art . However, if you are seeking out golf instruction, you would be wise to come visit us!

We are still in the crisp, beautiful golf season, but when the winter winds blow in, you can still fine-tune your game by taking a lesson or having your clubs fitted at Willowcreek Golf Academy . We have professional fitters and incredible instructors who will be happy to help you elevate your game so that next year you’ll be ready to take on the course with zeal.

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The cold weather doesn’t have to mean boredom. We at Atkinson Resort & Country Club are constantly working hard to produce events for our members and the public. After all, we are open to the public seven days a week. Come visit any time.

5 Ways to Remember or Honor Someone at Your Wedding

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Weddings are wonderful occasions for families. A wedding could be one of the proudest days of a parent’s life. A wedding could be the reason a cousin flies across an ocean. A wedding could be the reason you become closer to your friends than ever.

But, what happens when a family member or close friend is forced to miss the festivities due to finances or other life circumstances? What happens when the bride’s father passes away before the special day? What happens when a brother or sister is away fighting for their country?

It is natural and encouraged for weddings to feature those who cannot be with you in that moment, but it is important to find a respectful and beautiful way to do so. Here are five ways you can pay tribute to an important person who is either faraway or on a different plane.

Dedicate a Song

Depending on how public you would like to make your tribute, it could be appropriate to dedicate a song to those who could not be with you. A song dedication can be as general or as specific as you’d like and can address one or multiple people.

Decorate Your Bouquet

Sometimes brides do not have the opportunity to be walked down the aisle by their father. While a brother or close friend often steps in to fill this void, you can still include him.

One way you can do this is by adding a small photographic charm on your bouquet. Symbolically, this gesture will allow him to walk you down the aisle. And, your photographer will likely photograph your bouquet therefore providing you with pictures where he was present in a small way. It is a respectful, but subtle tribute.

Give Them Their Own Table or Save Them a Seat

You can include a table with photographs of those who are no longer with you. Oftentimes, brides and grooms use this kind of option to showcase grandparents with whom they would have liked to share their day.

Alternatively, if you are having seats at your wedding service, you could always “save a seat” for those who are no longer with you. Some couples use flowers or photographs to decorate those places.

Tributes such as these tend to spark old memories and stories from current family members, making your day even more meaningful.

Make a Donation

Was your relative a champion for a specific charitable cause? Consider registering to have some of your gifted funds be given in that person’s name on your behalf.

Alternatively, you can donate some of your monetary gifts at a later date in their name as well. You’ll feel amazing knowing that you helped make the world a better place in the name of your loved one.

Live Stream Your Wedding

In this day and age, even if certain guests cannot be there in person, they can watch it live. Consider having one dedicated person Facebook Live your wedding so that faraway friends can be there too. They will be able to react and share in your day digitally, and it will be posted for all to see at a later date.

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There are many ways to pay tribute to and include guests that couldn’t make it. For further ideas, we recommend reviewing this article on The Knot , which has a few alterative ideas as well as images echoing our own suggestions.

We at Atkinson Resort & Country Club are happy to talk to you about the details of your wedding. If you would like to learn more about weddings at our facility, click here .

Creating Stress-Free Guest Lists for Any Event

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

No matter what event you are planning, the guest list always seems to be the biggest source of stress. And, given the time of year, if you add on holiday scheduling, cleaning and organizing, this “small” element can often be the cause of all out panic. As we move into the fall and winter seasons, we would like to offer these tips from our professional sales and event managers about how to manage and master guest lists.

Starting the List

Just starting the process of creating a guest list can be daunting. Where do you begin? Arguably the best place is by deciding how much you can afford to spend. Establishing your budget early will help you structure every part of the event from booking the actual venue to the scope of your list.

Once you have your budget outlined, you can create the actual lists with first choices and alternates. Tia Parziale, our Event Manager said, “A suggestion would be to have an A and B list. Determine what guests are important to the type of event you are hosting. The B list can be for anyone that you want to invite but might not work within your budget at that time.”

Culling the List

Sometimes, the trouble is simply deciding how to cut back. You may have already generated the A and B lists, but without a system for culling, it can be hard to choose.

Our Hospitality Sales Manager, Carolyn Heffron said, “A suggestion to slim down the guest list would be to look at the list and determine the ‘must-haves’ such as close family and friends and then look at the next level of guests to see how closely tied to the guest or guests of honor. If coworkers are invited, maybe just invite the ones who work in the department or office with them, rather than opening it up to all coworkers. If your office has a tight budget for a company party, you could invite employees only without spouses if you need to pare down the guest list.”

Explaining Your Guest List

Guest lists can be excellent tools for expectation management. For instance, if you are hosting a small-scale event, chances are you are operating on a fixed budget, which means you really need to be clear on who and how many you include. Creating your guest list with that system in mind will help you manage peoples’ invitation expectations. If someone asks why they were not included on the list consider offering up the following explanations:

To anyone: “We are working on a budget for this particular event, so we have to keep it on the smaller side. We hope you understand.”

To a coworker: “We are hosting an intimate event, so we are only inviting family and friends.”

To those who want to bring a date: “We are planning to keep this event to just family, but we would really like to set up another time to get together with you and X.”

Finalizing the Count

Nailing down the final count for an event can be difficult. How much wiggle room should you leave open for late responders? It seems like the consensus when booking a venue is that kind of flexibility should only account for a small margin at best. After all, most venues require you to declare your number ahead of time so that they can assist you with meal choices, layouts and other important aspects of the event.

In our experience, another common question everyone really wants the answer to is how do you determine how many people will actually show up in proportion to the number of guests you initially invite? Carolyn said in her experience, “you can expect 5-15% unable to attend from your invited list.”

Of course, you can increase your RSVP rates by utilizing a Save the Date option, but the most important thing to do when planning it to make sure you have a firm date in mind that you need to hear back by. Most venues will want that list in hand at least three weeks in advance and we suggest that you build in more time so that you can compile all of the information in a clear format.

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There you have it! Advanced planning, established deadlines and systems for list generation. Of course, one other important thing to consider is the venue – we can help with that…

Inquire about Atkinson Resort & Country Club event space via info@atkinsoncc.com . We look forward to helping you plan your perfect function!

Everything You Need to Know About Putting

Mon, 09 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

To the dismay of all of our golfers, it is currently raining outside of Atkinson Resort & Country Club. However, rainy days are great times to learn how to improve your game. Many golfers would say that putting is one of the most challenging aspects, which is why we spoke with Sean Chipman, our Head Golf Professional about how to improve your putting, thereby improving your game.

First of all, we think most people would agree, selecting a putter can be a process in and of itself. After all, there are so many options! Sean recommends that golfers start by reading My Golf Spy’s article , which outlines all of the various fitting components that factor into choosing your putter. According to that article all of these elements should be thought about when you get fit for a putter:

Toe hang
Offset
Head shapes
Loft
Length
Lie Angle
Weight
Grip Style/Size
Face Material/Texture

With that being said, there are definitely certain elements that make certain putters work better for certain players. “Putting is truly an art form. In particular, the items mentioned above about toe hang, head type and offset really matter,” said Sean.

Aside from the actual elements of the putter, there are other important factors to consider when playing golf including the weather. Weather can drastically change how you putt. According to Sean, “Weather affects the green for sure. Also the cultural practices change daily (what has been done to maintain the greens) so it does take constant adjustments. Is the putt with the grain or against it? Greens may be slow in the morning (from dew) or quick after they dry and slow in the afternoon when the grass has grown a little through the course of the day. Compensation is all about ‘feel.’ Feel must be learned and that cannot be readily taught.”

In addition to the weather, golfers need to consider how a putt will break. Sean said, “A putt can/will break more or less based upon how hard it is struck. There are many things to consider too – certain golf courses have green complexes that are easier to read, some are very severe and others are very subtle (like ours) and are not easily read. I certainly am against plumb bobbing, but I am a believer in standing directly behind the ball and picking a spot next to the hole to putt at.”

Are you wondering what plumb bombing is? Don’t worry! Sean provided us with an image from Golf.com to illustrate the practice.

Unlike break though, distance is easier to feel out and teach golfers (though not all that easy!) Sean said, “This video illustrates what has been forever my favorite way to teach distance in putting or relate it to a student. For a right-handed player, the amount of force you want to hit a putt with is usually the same amount that you would want to use to roll the ball to the hole with your right hand. The drill makes you create a letter C with your left hand and place it against the palm and lifeline in your right hand. From there, you will rock your letter C with your right shoulder, forearm and bicep. This will also not allow your putter head to pass your hands.”

Overall, Sean believes that strong putting comes down to time spent. He said, “There are an infinite number of tips for making putts. In my opinion, the most important part of putting is confidence. Confidence must be earned – essentially, I’m always a believer in good old fashioned practice.”

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Would you like to take a lesson with a trained golf professional? Contact us at Willowcreek Golf Academy today.

5 Fun Things to Do in New Hampshire During Fall

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

If you poll your friends, family or coworkers, it’s highly likely that they will agree that Fall is their favorite season. And why wouldn’t it be? Its months are characterized by pumpkin carving, cider sipping, apple picking, new educational experiences and so much more. However, in the same breath, those same people will tell you that it’s the shortest season of all (or at least it seems that way). In order to help you make the most out of fall, we have put together this essential list of things to do in New Hampshire.

Experience the Great Outdoors

Fall is the perfect time to get outdoors. The weather transitions away from the muggy summer days and is now crisp and it doesn’t hurt that we have some of the nation’s best foliage. Take full advantage of the season by trying these outdoor activities:

Hike to a waterfall – All of the following falls are located in beautiful New Hampshire: Sabbaday Falls, Glen Ellis Falls, Thompson Falls, Arethusa Falls, Flume Cascade & Silver, Jackson Falls, and Diana's Baths .

Visit the New Hampshire Audubon – The New Hampshire Audubon offers activities for all ages including outdoor activities like full moon and bird walks .

Visit a ski destination – While most would think ski resorts are strictly good for winter activities, that could not be further from the truth! For instance, Wildcat Mountain offers a disc golf course and gondola rides .

Take a golf lesson – Fall offers that perfect crisp air that is perfect for outdoor sports like golf. Instead of focusing on hydration and heat – you can put all of that energy into learning and improving. Here at Atkinson Resort & Country Club we have seven incredible golf professionals available through the Willow Creek Golf Academy who can help you learn to be the best golfer you can be .

Learn about Local History

America’s Stonehenge , one of New Hampshire oldest and most mysterious outdoor attractions was build over 4000 years ago. This location offers people the opportunity to learn about archeology, astronomy and geolog y. While it is open year-round, fall is a beautiful time to experience due mainly in part to the colorful leaves we noted previously. The hours are 9:00am – 5:00pm, 7 days a week and adult admission is just $12.00 per person.

Sample Autumn-Inspired Drinks

New Hampshire has many local breweries, meaderies, and vineyards. Here’s a brief list:

New Hampshire provides you with the option to sample your way across the state and then settle down to dinner somewhere delicious. Are you wondering where to choose? Consider Merrill’s Tavern for a casual meal and darts or the Stagecoach Grille for a more intimate dining experience . And, the best part about choosing a restaurant at Atkinson Resort & Country Club is that if you’re just too tired and full to make your way home, simply rent one of our Fieldstone Suites !

Go to the Farm

Applecrest Farm – Founded in 1913, Applecrest Farm is a local favorite . They offer pick your own berries, apples and pumpkins, their own farm market and many festivals .

Jenness Farm – This farm focuses on creating natural products like goat milk soap and bath add-ins. However, they also have fun activities like Yoga with Goats ! Relax and center yourself for just $24.00 per person!

Apple Annie – This picking destination was chosen as a New Hampshire Farm of Distinction in 2000 , and it’s certainly understandable why! They have 12 varieties of apples and a rich history .

Fairs

When it comes to festivals and fairs, you just can’t beat New Hampshire! Notable fall options include: Deerfield Fair, the Annual Exeter Powder Keg Beer & Chili Festival, New Hampshire Brewfest and the NH Pumpkin Festival. You can see more options on NHMagazine’s online list .

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New Hampshire is an incredible place to eat, stay and play. We encourage you to do all of this in one location at Atkinson Resort & Country Club ! We offer large, comfortable rooms, gourmet dining options, indoor and outdoor gaming choices, a wedding facility and events during all seasons. Learn more about us here .

Everything You Need to Know About Club Fitting

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to golf, it’s important to utilize all advantages that are available to you. However, less experienced or new golfers may not be aware of the advantages of proper club fitting. The right fit can give you the competitive edge you need to up your game, which is why we sat down with JT Dowd, one our professional instructors at the Willowcreek Golf Academy to learn more.

First and foremost, why is proper club fitting so important? Well, JT explains it in the following way:

“Club fitting is important for several reasons: First and foremost, a club fitting will allow a golfer of any ability to get the most out of his or her swing. People are all built differently, and with different strengths and weaknesses in their games. Through a club fitting, we can match a golfer’s skill set, physical build, shot preferences and budget with a set of golf clubs that helps them achieve their goals and play their best.

Different players may want different things out of their clubs, too. A tournament golfer who likes to control shot shape and trajectory will most likely prefer something much different than the casual weekend golfer who only wants more distance and forgiveness. And every manufacturer offers something for a variety of skill levels and budgets. Many players just don’t know where to start when choosing equipment, and going through the club fitting process can simplify their selection.”

We realize that some interested golfers may not know what fitting entails, so we asked JT to flesh out the process as it and how it works at the Willowcreek Golf Academy:

“I prefer to start by having a player hit their current equipment while watching and recording their swing on a launch monitor. I will also try to find out if the player has any physical limitations that could affect the swing. Also, I will talk with the golfer to try to find out what they’re trying to achieve with their clubs.

When we have some data (swing speed, spin, height etc.) I can start putting some clubs together for the player to try. Using the data we collected from the launch monitor, I can determine what type of club to start with, and what type of shaft and shaft flex might get us the best results (playability, consistency, tight dispersion etc.) From there, the golfer will hit different clubs to see what he or she likes best, and what gives us the best result.

We also use things like a lie board and impact tape to help determine things like shaft length and lie angle. These methods are considered ‘old school’ compared to the data we get from the launch monitor, but are vital in getting the clubs fit to the players height, arm length, swing profile and any physical issues or needs they might be dealing with.”

According to JT, a correctly fit club should result in confidence, comfort and better gameplay:

“Through a club fitting my ultimate goal is to give a golfer clubs they’re comfortable with, confident in, and that allow them to play their best. I expect quantifiable improvements in distance and dispersion, as well as improvements in control and playability. With a fit set of irons, I want golfers to be able to hit shots into a green that land soft and hold, and have consistent distance gapping between clubs. With drivers and woods, I want them to be able to hit fairways and control their ball flight.”

Club fitting is a skill that golf professionals hone over years, that is ever-changing with technology. JT has been fitting clubs since 2011, but his interest in equipment started long before that. When it comes to how he learned about fitting, JT said, “I learned about club fitting by training under experienced golf professionals, through trial and error with my own game, and through learning the ins and outs of launch monitor technology. I did, and continue to do, research on equipment and ball flight laws. Especially with equipment, there is always something new coming out that can help golfers play better and have more fun. It’s important that any club fitter or pro knows what’s available, what it’s designed to do, and how it can help or hinder different players.”

When it comes to club fitting, it’s best to deal with experienced golf professionals. When it comes to finding the right fitting facility, JT noted:

“Many facilities offer club ‘fitting’—especially big sporting goods stores—but very few offer what we can provide at Willowcreek Golf Academy. At many facilities, a club fitting would take place in a simulator or by hitting balls into a net, and would be done by a part-timer who has limited experience. Here we see real ball flight, we use Trackman, which is the Cadillac of launch monitors, and we work with the best manufacturers. We’re trained and experienced in helping golfers play better.

My ultimate goal isn’t to sell someone a set of clubs and send them on their way. I want to help them put together a set that they’re confident in, and one that helps them play their best. A fitting may take multiple sessions, or I might have to try to get something from a manufacturer that we don’t have in stock, but I want players to ultimately know they’re using the equipment that’s correct for their game. I want to develop a relationship with the golfer and provide them with an experience that’s above and beyond what they would get at warehouse store or in the mall.”

If you’re on the fence as to whether to get fit for clubs or not, consider this advice from JT: “My best piece of advice is to simply get fit. I hear from so many golfers who think they’re not good enough to get fit and nothing could be farther from the truth. A tour player could take a rental set and still play well, but the golfers who can gain the most from a fitting are the ones who are still improving.”

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Are you ready to find your fit? Contact our team of golf professionals here .

Planning an Easy, Custom Holiday Party

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Planning a large-scale holiday party can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some easy ways that you can go about customizing your event in a worry-free way.

Choose Your Menu

There are several considerations when it comes to your menu. Will you have a plated meal or would you rather have a buffet option? Either way, it’s important that you choose food options that will please the majority of guests. Here are some of the basic questions to ask yourself:

Would you like to start with hors d'oeuvres?
Will you have a plated meal or a buffet style event?
Will you be featuring meat or vegetarian dishes (or both)?
Will there be a dessert option?
Will dinner be paired with certain drinks or will you offer an a la carte wine or beer?

At Atkinson Resort & County Club, we can help you choose your food service style, the courses and assist with drink options. Our culinary professionals are here for you to help make your event perfect.

Map Out a Timeline

In order for any event to run smoothly, a comprehensive timeline is necessary. And, the easiest way to map out a timeline is with an experienced Event Coordinator. Event Coordinators are skilled in creating and customizing these sorts of timelines to a tee. Allowing them to guide you in scheduling is a sure-fire way to make your event a hit. From when the food will be served and when toasts will occur to what time to end wine and beer service, an Event Coordinator is a great resource.

Would you like to contact one of Atkinson Resort & Country Club’s professional Event Coordinators? Email: info@atkinsoncc.com .

Focus on the Details

When it comes to a holiday party, forgetting what may seem like the smallest detail can become a major problem. Here is a list of questions to ask to keep yourself on track:

Will there be live entertainment and when will this occur?
Will there be music from a DJ or will you create a custom playlist?
What technology will you require (speakers, a laptop etc).
Will there be assigned seating and if so, will there be name cards?
What drinks will be served and will there be drink tickets?
If you are planning this event outside of an authorized event facility do you have alcohol permits and other important items like insurance?
Will you be giving out favors?
Where will guests check their coats?
What catering company will you be using and do they offer wine and beer service?
Does your wine and beer vendor bring ice with them or will you be responsible for it?
Will you be sending out paper invitations or an email invite?
Will there be a photographer documenting the event or will you be renting a photo booth?
What will the dress code be?
Will your event be kid-friendly or an adults-only affair?
What will the theme be and what decorations will you need to achieve it (florals, snowflakes etc)?
Who will be responsible for setting up the décor and cleaning up afterward?
Will you provide transportation for guests?
Will you provide overnight accommodations for guests coming from long distances?

Depending on your event, there will be different questions, but make sure to think about everything in advance from all perspectives. It’s very easy to forget a detail or two.

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Planning is made much easier when you have expert help. Here at Atkinson Resort & Country Club, we aim to provide you with custom options for your holiday event in a setting run by seasoned event professionals. Contact us today at: info@atkinsoncc.com .

Why a Joint Holiday Party is the Right Choice

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The winter holidays are fast approaching. In fact, the beginning of December is less than 80 days away and that means Hanukkah/Chanukah, the Winter Solstice, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Kwanzaa and New Year’s will be upon us in the blink of an eye. And, with those festive celebrations on the horizon, so are the accompanying holiday parties, which historically happen before them.

If you’re beginning to panic at the thought of planning a big event, it might be time to consider a joint holiday party for your company, family or friends. With that in mind, we ask you to consider the following advantages to participating in such an event.

Networking Opportunities

Joint parties offer a festive atmosphere with the opportunity to meet others outside of your company or social group. At events like our Jingle & Mingle , that sort of behavior is not only accepted, but encouraged!

Our event offers cocktails and hors d’oeuvres for a full hour, which we believe is the perfect time to meet new contacts and friends. The event also features a great DJ who offers upbeat music that will make you want to get up and dance. There’s nothing better than exchanging business cards or phone numbers and then sitting down for an elegant four-course meal.

The Theme is Ready to Roll

For those who are interested in developing a party all on their own, we would be happy to host it . But, if you are looking for a no-stress option, a joint holiday party is for you.

Take it from Carolyn Heffron, our Hospitality Sales Manager, “Holidays are for celebrating ‘your way’ so what could be better than to have our team of professionals help you? By leaving the planning to us, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the process leaving the details to us. Don’t get caught up in the details and endless lists of things ‘to do.’”

Affordability

While cost isn’t the only factor to consider when planning your holiday party, it is an important one, especially for smaller companies. As Inc said , “In flusher times, employers could pull out all the stops for an office holiday party, giving their employees a well-deserved chance to unwind. But in the current economic climate, some businesses can't afford a party, and others simply don't feel much like celebrating. One way to keep the spiked eggnog flowing more affordably is to hold a joint party.”

Joint parties allow you to spoil your employees and friends without breaking the bank. Our Jingle & Mingle is just $55 per person and includes tax and gratuity and, most importantly, delicious food like petite filet mignon and pretzel crusted chicken stuffed with ham and Monterey Jack cheese finished with whole grain mustard cream sauce, baby spinach salad with roasted butternut, apples and warm maple vinaigrette and chocolate overload torte with salted caramel.

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Are you ready to learn more or book at table about the Atkinson Resort & Country Club’s Jingle & Mingle Event? Contact Guest Services for more information at (603) 362-8700 or via: info@atkinsoncc.com .

Tips and Tricks from the Pros: Wedges

Fri, 08 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The autumn is fast approaching, but there's no end in sight yet for the 2017 golf season. Even in September, it's never too late to start thinking about upgrading your clubs and finishing the last couple of months of the season strong. In this edition of Tips and Tricks from the Pros, JT Dowd explains how wedges are criminally underrated and how replacing them can really step up your game.

"Every spring, as the weather warms and the trees start to bud, golfers in New England dust off their clubs and head for the courses. Many have spent the winter drooling over a new driver, or pining after a special putter that they saw a tour pro using. However, those same golfers may not give a second thought to their wedge make up.

Many golfers have a pitching wedge that matches their irons, some might have a trusty sand wedge they’ve played for years, and a handful might even have a lob wedge they got at a charity scramble as a door prize a few years back. Those clubs may be rusted, dinged up and have the grip worn smooth, but golfers rely on them for some of the most demanding scoring shots they face…

A well-matched set of wedges is crucial to getting up and down, scoring from off the green and getting close from sand traps and adverse lies. Those clubs can give a player reliable distance gapping from a variety of yardages and allow them to shoot at flag sticks when they’re inside 100 yards, but many golfers couldn’t tell you the loft of their pitching wedge or any other wedge they might have in the bag. Most manufacturers utilize a 45 or 46 degree pitching wedge in iron sets, and many also offer a 50* gap wedge. A well-matched set would also have a sand wedge, (54*-56*) and potentially a lob wedge (58*-62*) depending on the golfer's preferences and the conditions they typically play in.

Seeing a golf professional or club fitter would be a great idea for any golfer who is curious about their wedges! They’re the clubs most often used to score and save shot around the green, and having the correct clubs can be a game changer. If you’re making an investment in your game this spring make sure you’re spending your money in the right place."

JT Dowd is an instructor at the Willow Golf Academy located at the Atkinson Resort and Country Club. To learn more golf tips, sign up for a golf lesson, or browse our other excellent instructors, visit our website .

When and How to Start Planning Your Holiday Party

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

We know what you are thinking, it’s early September, why in the world would you want to begin holiday planning in summer? Well, there are a few reasons! First, Fall is almost unanimously heralded as the shortest-feeling season and it starts on September 22nd, which is astonishingly less than three weeks away. Second, holiday parties aren’t easy to plan. They involve preemptive cleaning, guest list generation, food choices, theme selection and so much more!

We think that our Wedding Sales Manager, Jennifer Chipman sums it up well, “Nowadays our holidays are filled with lists, lists, and more lists. Hosting a family gathering or dinner will add more lists. Invite list, recipe lists, grocery lists, beverage list, decoration lists, never mind the list of the cleaning to be done. For a hostess this can make the holidays less about time with family and celebration and more about the endless lists of to-do’s. Selecting a venue to host your gatherings will eliminate all but the invite list for you! Working with our event staff you’ll be able to select a menu that suites your gathering and budget. You’ll leave the setup, cooking and cleaning to us while you enjoy the evening with family and friends.”

So, when is the right time to start planning? Well, we would argue that it’s now – so let’s get started.

We have already noted that now is the optimal time to start planning, but what should you start with?

Select a Location

Location is probably the most important piece of the holiday party planning process. You can begin determining your location by considering how many people you want to invite. If you are planning a holiday party for your company, consider the number of employees you have plus any additional guests that they may want to bring. Also – if your work event is going to be family-friendly, it’s best to learn ahead of time how many children will be in attendance. Alternatively, if you are planning a family holiday party, consider who will be able to join you and their tastes. In order to host a successful event, it’s really important that you find the best possible fit.

Once you have determined your capacity requirements, consider what type of party you would like to have. Are you open to a joint atmosphere with multiple companies utilizing the same space? Are you seeking a more intimate space that offers family activities? Maybe you are interested in a sit-down dinner with a customizable menu? Make sure to do research on everything the venue can offer so that when you book, you will have confidence in your decision.

And, if you are feeling lost for location inspiration, we have options for you. For instance, at Atkinson Resort & Country Club, you can book your own holiday party for anywhere from 6-600 people. We also host an annual Jingle and Mingle event. Learn more about our function options here .

Invitations

Invitations are the second most important item you will need to check off your list. Will you be sending out formal, printed pieces or will you send them in a more casual manner such as email? If you are having them printed, make sure to budget time to send them to a reputable printer, see proofs and, of course, mail them to the lucky guests.

Guests

Of course, the guest list must be generated number-wise early on, but really taking the time to consider who to invite is incredibly important. The guest list will dictate what themes and activities are appropriate.

For a corporate, adults-only affair, a formal sit-down dinner might be appropriate. However, other gatherings may benefit from a more relaxed buffet option. And, if you are including children in your planning process, it’s crucial that you plan appropriate food items and activities so that they remain happy and occupied while the parents have their own fun.

Food

Maybe it’s not the most time-sensitive part of the process, but the food is an important aspect that your guests will remember. Most people will agree that the best part of having your holiday party at a location other than your office or home is there are outside professionals who can handle the dining experience. A venue with on-site food options will be able to help you choose your style of meal (sit-down, buffet or hors d'oeuvres), the specific menu items, the beverages that pair best and will be able to advise you on the timing of the meal. By choosing a venue that specializes in events you will be making a stress-free choice that will delight your guests.

Theme

While holiday parties can be simply “holiday” themed, you can also get creative! Do you think that your coworkers would want to let loose with a Casino Night? Would your family enjoy having an on-site Santa? Maybe your group might like the idea of a Masquerade Ball! And, of course, you cannot go wrong with a classic theme like Winter Wonderland. Whatever your theme is, make sure to decide early so that you can spend adequate time dreaming up decorations and favors.

From flowers to photography and musical entertainment, Atkinson Resort & County Club prides ourselves in locating reputable vendors that produce amazing results. We’re happy to provide you with out Preferred Vendors list and will help you in any way we can throughout the process.

One such vendor that can provide you with an instant theme is Stasio’s Photography . In our case, they come on-site and take photos with Santa while we light up the tree! The owner, Pamella Pitman describes the festivities well, "We take a few photos then, Santa enjoys time talking with the kids. They give him there wish list, they talk about what is on that list. Santa gives them a candy cane and off they go to pick up there photo from the printers."

Image courtesy of Stasio's Photography

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Holiday parties are events that people look forward to all year long. When you start to plan yours, consider placing your trust in the hands of Atkinson Resort & Country Club. We have seasoned event planners, a delicious holiday menu (which is customizable) and we might be slightly biased, but we think we have the most beautiful setting in the Atkinson area. Sold? Book us today by calling 603.362.8700 or via info@atkinsoncc.com .