Fog City

Today is Saturday June 22nd, so it is officially summer. Frankly it doesn't mean a twit to me, because at my advanced age every day is the same, with little exception. Although the daylight varies so there's that. When I become aware of all that is happening around me, and be sure plenty is going on, street festivals, music events, art shows, etc. etc., I'm quite mentally motivated. But after further thought, like transportation, congestion, time restraints, distance, large crowds, noise pollution, jostling, lines, sunscreen, well you get the gist. I stay home. I visualize. I've heard it and done it all before anyway, so what's the point. I know, bad attitude. But that's my nature, if it don't come easy forget it.

I did have a wonderful experience on Father's Day. After some gentle coercion by my son, mainly having tickets, provided by his wife, the wonderful Doctor Lauren, Cassidy provided transport, I didn't have to get up early, we were off to the US Open Golf Championship. The event was held at the Pebble Beach Resort on the Monterey Peninsula near Carmel by the Sea. God's country. Or more like the rich peoples country. It certainly was a once in a lifetime chance and I thank Cass and Lauren for that. I must say being on the world famous golf links watching the greatest players in the game had moments of surrealism. The skies were grey and overcast with a marine layer. The temperature cool. The crowds were massive and enthusiastic. We surveyed the best viewing opportunities and got lucky with some but others were filled to the max. Along the 8th fairway we secured an ideal spot. A huge ravine, cliffs sloping down to the sea, dissected the fairway. The players second shot had to carry the chasm. A sliver of land was the only walkway to the green and we were perched right there. This vantage allowed all the players to walk past us no more than arm's length away. We could give them thumbs up, and shout encouragement as they strode past. Certainly a highlight of our experience and we have video and photos for proof. I play golf. Cassidy plays golf. I'm a fan and have followed the game since I was a boy. I know the history. My favorite players go back as far as the era of Sam Snead and Ben Hogan. The game has change considerably but you still have to get the ball in the hole. So comparisons of different eras, different players, different equipment are fun to argue, the action remains the same. I was in awe of the course itself, set up to be a true championship test. I was in awe of the players and their mastery, their skill at conquering such a test. Or not. I was fortunate to share such a rare experience with my son, who knows my history with my dad and my uncle, himself a great golfer, who can appreciate the linkage of time to family through golf. I'm sure he'll endeavor to keep it alive with his family. We rode home in silence, it was late after all, but sometimes silence tells it all.
Love wins again!

Fog City

Since 2009 we have gathered as a family in Palm Desert for the Hanucup Golf tourney. Initially it was played in December and coincided with Hanukkah. Weather mandated a seasonal change and now it falls on Mother's Day weekend in the Spring. The name remains even though it's closer to Passover. Children play in the pool, sumptuous food is served constantly and we have our Friday morning tourney. Eight players teed up this year, all of varying degrees of competence, hence we use the handicap system to equal the playing field. Our winner this year was Adam Gautier, with a 31 handicap, edging out myself with an 11 handicap. It was great fun. Cassidy created these humorous introductions, and I wanted to save them.

From: Cassidy Raher <cassidyraher@hotmail.com>
Date: May 9, 2019 at 6:45:38 PM PDT
To: Larry Brooks <larrybrooks@me.com>
Subject: Golf introductions

Golf introductions:

From Cedar Rapids, Iowa, this golfer is the owner of 2 green jackets. As well as 2 gray sweatshirts and 3 white pullovers. A man who’s social media presence rivals that of the Kardashians. A golfer who moves through life at the pace of a lawn bowling match. 3 time Hanucup champion: Tom Raher!

This next golfer’s swing hasn’t changed in two years, which was also his last swing. A man who needs no introduction. The dark horse of this tournament, and within his family. The king of cuisine. Captain of cutting. Chairman of chopping. The barista of the boardroom. Danny Brooks!

Next on the tee, an estate planner from Agoura Hills, CA. He’s the lost member of the rat pack. And the proud owner of a back pack. A seasoned traveler who hasn’t seen his own home since the last Hanucup, he plans on beating all of today’s opponents.... with jokes and sarcasm. Let’s hear it for Adam Gauthier!

“Next on the tee, a fashion icon in his own mind; a golfer who’s had more hairstyles than Lady Gaga; a man who keeps the local dispensaries in business. San Diego native and Former hanucup champion; Steven Dratler!”

Next on the tee, a lawyer from Alameda, CA. This golfer is just excited he’s getting fresh air. A former member of the Avengers, which is the name of his litigation team, he swings his driver like he’s just mainlined a triple shot of espresso. Last year’s runner up, Casey Kaufman!

“First on the tee, the defending champion and family videographer; this guy has lanes reserved at Fantasy Bowling this evening at 11 if anyone wants to join, always representing the Bay and looking to be the first repeat winner, 1 time Hanucup champion, Cassidy Raher!”

“Next on the tee, from Rancho Santa Fe, Ca, this golfer returns to the Hanucup after a 4 year absence. After only playing his home course since then, he’s most looking forward to getting back there as soon as possible. Ready to compete for the crown, Howard Dratler!”