GOLF & LIFESTYLE W W W. G O L FA N D L I F E S T Y L E . C O M
winter 2012 issue
DRIVE
CADILLAC ESCALADE
GIRARDPERREGAUX
HAUTE HORLOGERIE
ESCAPE RENEWED 0N KAUAI
PHIL MICKELSON ANOTHER MOUNTAIN TO CLIMB
i r u b b e d e l b o w s w i t h g r a e m e m cd o w e l l . Took 20 practice swings with Mickelson.
firsthand why even pros pause for a
Read the 5th green with Watson. Walked
moment to take in the surroundings.
4 holes with Westwood. And stared in
And I discovered why every shot here
awe at the majesty of 8 with Els. I
is a part of golf history. The 2010 U.S.
learned where to place my tee shot on
Open was my first trip to Pebble Beach,
10, and where to lay up on 18. I saw
but it won’t be my last.
R ESERV E YOUR PL ACE IN G OL F HISTORY TODAY 1.866.287.0040 | www.PebbleBeach.com
Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course and The Links at Spanish Bay Pebble Beach,® Pebble Beach Golf Links,® Pebble Beach Resorts,® Spyglass Hill ® Golf Course, The Links at Spanish Bay,™ The Inn at Spanish Bay,™ The Lone Cypress,™ The Heritage Logo and their respective underlying distinctive images are trademarks, service marks, and trade dress of Pebble Beach Company. Photo Credit: Joann Dost.
All things Pure & Precious
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moscow
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naples
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new york
w w w . m i c h a e l g r e e n e . c o m
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sacramento
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tokyo
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CONTENTS winter 2012 issue
10 12 16 22 24 30 35 38
Note Note In Our Back Yard: The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel Taste: 2007 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Drive: Cadillac Escalade On the Market: Majestic Rocky Point Q & A: Mike Kelly Gallery: Purity Vodka
40 Cover Story:
Phil Mickelson Another Mountain to Climb
45 51 56 59 62 64 8
Luxury: Girard-Perregaux Escape: Golf Brilliance Renewed on Kauai Gallery: The Kurt Cobain Jaguar Guitar Leaving the Links: The Carneros Inn Finance: How Much Do You Know About Social Security? 19th Hole Cocktail: Club M's Indonesian Delight
GOLF&LIFESTYLE | Winter 2012 | golfandlifestyle.com
PGA WEST
note
GOLF & LIFES w w w.
G O L FA
NDLIF
ESTYL
E.cOm
TYLE
resolutions). In fact, in the immortal words of Mickey Mantle, “If I’d known I was going e to live this long, I would’ve taken better care of myself.” DRIVE If you think about it, my very first resoluCADILLA C ESCALAD E tion for 2012 makes me a perfect fit for Golf & Lifestyle Magazine. Eat better...steak and GIRARDPERREG no potato at our finest Golf and Lifestyle resAUX HAUTE H ORLOGE taurants. Exercise more...I’ll walk every other RIE par three. And last but not least in the health ESCAPE category...play more golf. Well, someone has RENEWE D 0N KAUA to do it. My business partner is already a plus I 1.5 handicap. He sure doesn’t need to play. I volunteer. Golf & Lifestyle Magazine resolutions. I resolve that: 1-Each and every issue will be unique and interesting to read. 2-Every issue will make our reader’s proud to display in their home or place of business. 3-Our advertiser’s will feel they benefit by association. 4-Our website will become a “favorite” on your computer (see Ron Hyde, below). 5- Facebook and Twitter followers will “like” our postings. 6-We will satisfy readers and advertisers with our expansion into Orange County, San Diego and Northern California. And, last but not least, 7-You, our readers, will let us know what you like, and don’t like about our publication. And, to really start the 2012 off right, we are very proud and honored to announce the addition of Ron Hyde to our magazine. Ron is a Professional ANOTHER TV/Broadcaster/ Communications Executive and MOUNTAIN TO CLIMB has worked as a News and Sports Anchor at CNN and at network affiliates in Sacramento and San Francisco. Ron is the perfect fit for our advertisow, 2012!! It seems like yesterday we were stressing about New Year’s Eve 2000, ers at Golf & Lifestyle Magazine. He is going to “The Millennium.” At midnight, December 31, 1999, all the computers were supexpand our social media sites, produce narrated posed to crash and we were to stock up on supplies because of world disaster. HD videos, which, in turn, gives advertisers a leg Well, here we are in 2012, the year the Mayans said would never come. 2012, the up on other publications, and play golf whenever Chinese year of The Dragon. 2012, the year that I am going to make some changes. In fact, I resolve possible (a prerequisite to joining us). We are to make changes in 2012. extremely pleased to be associated with a man Oh, yeah. I make “New year’s resolutions.” I made some resolutions in 2011. I resolved to lose of Ron's expertise and weight. I lost thirty pounds during the year, and put fifteen back on at Christmas. I resolved to lower enthusiasm. my handicap at golf. I got down three strokes, hurt my back, and went up six. I resolved to read So, Happy New more. Two cornea transplants later, my eyes get a little too tired to read. So for 2012 and beyond, Year to everyone. look out world, there’s a new Sheriff in town. This year I’m determined to make resolutions that I May all your New can stick to. Year's resolutions be My mother-in-law turns ninety-six this month. So I was thinking, I could resolve that I beat fulfilled and may 2012 her age. I’m even thinking of placing a big bet with her to see who wins. Of course she has to put bring you prosperity money up front and be present to collect. But hey, those are the rules. To win the bet means I will and good health. • have to 1-eat better, 2-exercise more and 3-play more golf (sometimes, logic doesn’t enter into — Paul Dahlberg
winter 2012 issu
PHIL MICKELSO N
W
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GOLF&LIFESTYLE | Winter 2012 | golfandlifestyle.com
Legendary.
Hole #17 “Alcatraz”
The La Quinta Resort & PGA WEST ®
Season Golf Pass A legendary offer to play the greatest collection of golf courses in the Palm Springs area. Choose three rounds on either the Pete Dye Mountain or Dunes Courses at La Quinta Resort, the Jack Nicklaus Tournament, Greg Norman or TPC ® Stadium Courses at PGA WEST.®
Enjoy 3 rounds from $379 To purchase, or for more information call 888-912-6688 or visit laquintaresort.com/GolfLifestyle
note
y name is Ron Hyde and I join Golf & Lifestyle as a new partner and the President of Media. The other partners, Paul and Anthony, have been gracious enough to welcome me to this triumvirate, which we could now dub, fittingly enough, PAR (Paul, Anthony, Ron). I spent two decades in television as a sportscaster and newscaster at CNN and at network affiliated stations in Sacramento and San Francisco. I am also a correspondent for “California Life” TV Show which is seen weekly in all California TV Markets. Never in a million years did I think I would end up doing what I am doing with Golf & Lifestyle; spreading the word of Golf and the Lifestyle that that entails. My journey to this point is a true 180. I’ve had the pleasure of anchoring/reporting/working with broadcasters that are, in today’s world, synonymous with golf. NBC’s Dan Hicks, GolfChannel’s Steve Sands, ABC/ESPN’s Tom Rinaldi, Vince Cellini, who did “The Big Break and CNN’s Jim Huber. I forged professional and personal friendships with the aforementioned talented broadcasters. We all had a passion for writing and communicating our love of sports and sharing it with the public all the while baffled and befuddled that we got paid to tell people what they just saw on TV. Golf was never on my list of favorite sports. Sure, I’d watch The Masters and some of the biggies more out of professional obligation than anything. I looked in wonderment, as some of my colleagues would have “Watch Parties” at their homes to tune in to something as innocuous as the Memphis Open. I used to ask, “What’s the allure?” I didn’t get it. I do now. I was a baseball player with dreams of playing in the bigs. My golf swing, to my detriment, still resembles my baseball swing. Too bad I don’t get credit for that wicked hook off the tee (it would be a double down the left field line at Fenway). My best friend, Joe, a golf lover from Minnesota had been badgering me for years to do a guys golf getaway. In 2003, I agreed and we did our first trip to La Quinta Resort and PGA West. It’s now been 10 years, twice a year and getting better every year. Our wives, fortunately, believe we come back better fathers and husbands after each trip. Maybe we can add a few more trips every year so we can really become better fathers and husbands! I love that immersive feeling I get when walking onto a beautiful golf course. I appreciate its beauty, idiosyncrasy and personality. I love the environment, the people, and the fraternal-like commonality with other golfers. I love the lifestyle that envelops the game — a wonderful stay at a resort, a tasty dinner at a top-tier restaurant and then, the promise of doing the same thing the very next day. Beyond my best friend, Joe, I need to lay credit at the feet of some wonderful people in the world of golf in the Palm Springs area that were instrumental in putting out the welcome mat on my path to this incurable golf fever; Willie Maples of Eagle Falls,, Bob Buttaro at La Quinta Resort, Michael Tebbets of Indian Wells Golf Resort, Randy Duncan of Silver Rock Resort and the former GM of Trilogy, Bob Veroulis. Each made me want to be part of this world. Don't worry Shawn Cox of The Grand Del Mar in San Diego, I haven't forgotten you,
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“
M
“
We are more than just a magazine. We are writers, essayists, storytellers and creative conduits to our audience.
either. Thanks to the above for showing me the way with open arms and generosity. I lost a pair of friends in the past few months that were legends in TV Sports with whom I worked at CNN, Nick Charles and Jim Huber. Both were wordsmiths who were great “framers” of situations and could always capture the essence of a story with their judicious, impactful and economic use of words. Nick in boxing, Jim with golf. These essayists were a rare breed but imbued me with the belief those words and stories have resonance. I’ve taken from them what I can and in turn will try to offer that in effort and intent for Golf & Lifestyle. We are more than just a magazine. We are writers, essayists, storytellers and creative conduits to our audience. Through the words and amazing photos in the magazine to our narrated videos on the website to our powerful social media channels, like Facebook and Twitter, we are well-equipped and well-positioned to bring you the best in content in the categories that matter to you — GOLF and the LIFESTYLE that goes with it. For me, who woulda thunk it? Paul and Anthony-buckle up. It’s PAR Time. • — Ron Hyde Partner and President of Media
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GOLF & LIFESTYLE
winter 2012 issue
PRESIDENT Paul Dahlberg paul@golfandlifestyle.com 916-849-8838 MANAGING MEMBER/PARTNER Anthony Glover anthony@golfandlifestyle.com 916-925-4653 PRESIDENT OF MEDIA/PARTNER Ron Hyde ronhyde@golfandlifestyle.com 916-717-7935 EDITORIAL BOARD/HEAD OF LUXURY Bryan McKrell bryan@golfandlifestyle.com 916-925-4653 EDITOR Lindsay Glover lindsay@golfandlifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Darren Elms, Don Weberg PRODUCTION Miguel Bigueur Vision Quest Productions LLC visionquest@gmail.com 888-649-1693 DESIGN GROUP AND PUBLISHING CONSULTANTS Style Media Group, Inc.
PUBLISHED BY: Golf & Lifestyle Magazine, LLC P.O. Box 5591 Napa, CA 94581 Phone: 916.925.GOLF (4653) Fax: 916.925.4005 www.golfandlifestyle.com Š 2012 by Golf & Lifestyle Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from Golf & LIfestyle Magazine, LLC. Any and all submissions become the property of Golf & Lifestyle Magazine, LLC and may be used in any media. We reserve the right to edit. TO OUR READERS: Golf & Lifestyle Magazine would welcome your feedback and reaction to our magazine and stories. Please send your letters to the above address. Please include your name, address, phone number and email address in case we need to contact you. Letters may be published. We reserve the right to edit. ADVERTISING: For inquiries, please contact info@ golfandlifestyle.com.
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KAUAI
YOUR BEST GAME IS NOT NECESSARILY MEASURED BY THE SCORE. There’s also the feeling golf can give you that all is right in your world – a feeling magnified on the lush and inviting island of Kaua‘i.
Kauai Discovery.com
IN OUR BACK YARD
A PLAYFUL APPROACH TO
LUXURY The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel boasts a newly re-imagined vibe, services and spaces, yet still occupies its perch atop 150 foot bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
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Experience the resort’s playful new approach to luxury. One of the newest additions to the resort is Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment. For families and individuals seeking more meaningful, and green, outdoor adventures, Ambassadors of the Environment excursions lend discovery to the wonders of nature while teaching ways to protect the planet. A partnership with Jean-Michel Cousteau, Ambassadors of the Environment offers guests 15 different eco-adventures that promise to open
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their eyes to Southern California’s unique ecosystems, and open their heart to their connection to the larger global systems. Led by expert naturalists, each excursion is dedicated to showcasing Southern California’s natural wonders. Through these unique eco-tours, the surroundings become a natural classroom and living laboratory where adults, families and kids learn while having so much fun, they’ll never imagine it’s educational. Ambassador’s participants have meaningful experiences that imbue them with
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a deep appreciation and respect for nature, as well as an understanding of how to live more environmentally responsibly back home. Enjoy amazing dining experiences at the resort. RAYA, a restaurant concept by acclaimed Chef Richard Sandoval, showcases Pan-Latin Coastal Cuisine by Chef Marissa Gerlach. Chef Gerlach highlights sustainable seafood, local produce and natural and organic meats, complimented by Chef Sandoval’s signature Latin flavors. For the ultimate wow, watch sunset at 180blu. Perched 162-feet above Salt Creek Beach, 180blu is the perfect Southern California experience to enjoy refreshing hand-crafted
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beverages, small plates from Raya and a little slice of heaven on earth! For the wine lover, ENO is an upscale wine tasting room that offers more than 300 wines, fine international cheeses and gourmet chocolates from around the globe. ENO's wine attendants specialize in introducing guests to new and interesting wines and educating them on every aspect of wines, wineries and varietals. For relaxation, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is a truly exceptional Southern California golf destination, offering exceptional convenience to several nearby courses. Reserve a signature golf vacation package and select
your challenge – from enjoyable, yet demanding, links-style courses in the valleys, to winding courses nestled in the foothills. Enjoy the work of true masters on the surrounding Dana Point golf courses and area clubs – created by renowned designers such as Tom Fazio and Robert Trent Jones, Jr. If golf is not on the agenda, escape to oceaninspired renewal at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. All 12 treatment rooms within the spa are bathed in soft hues of aqua and beige and tranquil water features add to the overall sensory experience. High-style locker rooms, public spaces, and saunas ensure a soothing aura throughout the spa
in Southern California – set to the ever-present rhythm of the surf. Located half way between Los Angeles and San Diego, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is a surfside retreat that awakens guests’ senses with its unique setting and remarkable service heritage. Over the years, the resort has been the recipient of many awards, but is proud to boast its AAA Five Diamond status for the 27th consecutive year. • The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is located at One Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, CA, 92629. For more information call 949-240-2000.
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TASTE
2007 SILVER OAK
T
he 2007 Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon combines elegance and depth in a balanced expression of this classic California vintage. It has a dark ruby color with a garnet edge and a complex nose of sandalwood, cedar, cassis, black cherry, dark chocolate and roasted coffee. On the palate, it is extremely rich and mouth-coating and has a long finish of concentrated fruit and spice with a slight tannic grip. This wine is remarkable in how it continues to evolve in the glass over the course of a meal. It has great maturity of aromas and tannins at moderate alcohol. With proper cellaring, this wine should give drinking pleasure through 2033. The 2007 vintage had an unusual combination of a light crop and a cool summer which resulted in great concentration and mature flavors and tannins at moderate alcohol. The season started cool and dry with less than an inch of rain in January. The dry weather continued into spring and the dry soils induced early budbreak and bloom. Fruit set was light and berries were small: crop levels were 15% to 20% below normal. Summer weather was mild with temperatures rarely exceeding 900F. Continued dry weather, a warm spell in early August and a Labor Day heat wave were the catalysts for achieving perfect maturity. The small berries and long, slow ripening resulted in extraordinary wines. The 2007 Napa Valley, a blend of wine from vineyards throughout the appellation, is 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. It was blended in the vineyard lots in early 2008 and then the wine was transferred to 100% new American oak barrels for aging. Blending prior to barreling allows the wine maker to achieve a balance of the wine’s primary elements, such as fruit and tannin, before they are influenced by oak. The wine was then aged in barrel for approximately 25 months and another 20 months in bottle to harmonize its components before release.•
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 22
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DRIVE
CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV PLATINUM EDITION 24
GOLF&LIFESTYLE | Winter 2012 | golfandlifestyle.com
Why the Escalade is the King of SUVs BY DON WEBERG
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I
n 1998 as a '99, Cadillac unleashed the Escalade, essentially a GMC Yukon Denali with some new appointments and a gussied up interior, to help the brand compete against the onslaught of SUV competition from Europe, Asia and home-grown Lincoln who had introduced the Navigator in late 1997. In the growing SUV craze, the Escalade was a hit — celebrities from all walks of life wanted to be seen in one; politicians traded in their Suburbans and Yukons for Escalades; private buyers, jaded with the European and best-ofthe-best American SUV offerings, jumped at the chance to have a truly premium American SUV. This wasn't just a run-of-the-mill SUV with a wood and leather interior package and moonroof — no, no, this was a CADILLAC. It came equipped with lots of goodies, gobs of power, and an exclusivity factor other luxury SUVs didn't match. There simply was an air to Escalade...something special, unique. Even the Navigator had trouble matching it, and suddenly having a Land Rover or Mercedes SUV seemed so old school, so then. The Escalade put Cadillac back on the map. Parents with Escalades were suddenly cool in the eyes of their teenage children, and teenagers were aspiring to own a Cadillac. It created more buzz than any other Cadillac before and bolstered the stage for the impending XLR, CTS, STS, SRX and, of course, V-Series cars. Today, little has changed in the Escalade formula; however, hot seller that it is, the model has grown into Escalade, Escalade Hybrid, Escalade EXT (Cadillac's idea of a pickup) and Escalade ESV (Cadillac's Suburban-sized SUV). Within those, Cadillac offers Standard, Luxury, Premium and Platinum Editions, each building upon the other to offer buyers more amenities. And, of course, all are available as two-wheel or all-wheel drive. Big with a brutish elegance and decidedly American attitude, the Escalade has morphed well into its own, growing further and further away from its Yukon roots, giving clients more reason to consider one over the competition. It boasts the most power in its class, the most room in its class, the most features in its class, and the closest competitors are the Lincoln Navigator, Mercedes-Benz GL550 and Land Rover Range Rover, and none of these, especially for the price, come close to matching the creme d'la creme of the Escalade lineup, the Escalade ESV Platinum Edition. Building upon the Premium Edition Es-
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cadillac escalade platinum* BODY: Material Height Width Wheelbase Curb Weight MECHANICALS: Towing Capacity Tires-Rims
PERFORMANCE: 0-60 MPH
Steel 73.1 in. 79.1 in. 13.0 5,700 lbs.
7,100-8,000 lbs. 22" x 9" 7-spoke chromed aluminum
6.8 seconds
*Manufacturer informational claims
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calade, the Platinum Edition features a host of special items such as 22" multi-spoke chrome aluminum wheels, heated steering wheel, power-release fold-and-tumble second-row seats, InteliBeam headlamps with LED, blind side alert, heated and cooled cup holders, leather-wrapped instrument panel and trim, Tehama Aniline full-leather first and second row seats, duo-tone olive and walnut wood trim, three LCD entertainment screens (in-dash and rear-facing screens in the front headrests) and an abundance of extras than can't truly be listed in a magazine article. Many of the features carried by the Platinum Edition are not available on other Escalades, and in essence, it's as if someone ran amok with the Escalade options sheet and checked every available box, and then got the dealer to bring the price in for oodles less than would be expected. Outside, the Platinum Edition sets itself apart visually from the rest of the Escalade family with a unique grille, headlights, chrome trim, and lower fascia treatment. Inside, the seats are of Tehama leather, notably softer than the standard equipment leather
used on lesser Escalades, and the dashboard is replete with highlypolished olive and walnut wood veneers bringing an interesting and daring color contrast to the dashboard. Handsome aluminum trim lines the rest of the cabin, lending a somber, elegant aura to the luxurious interior. The seats are surprisingly supportive, with power assist and adjustments galore, including heating and cooling options to keep hot or cold days outside. A power sunroof is available on all but the Standard issue Escalade. No matter how an Escalade is purchased, each has the 6.2-liter, 402-horsepower V8 engine, capable of propelling the 5,700 pound SUV to 60-miles per hour in just about 7-seconds, and towing up to 8,000 pounds. Despite its size, Escalade achieves between 13 and 18 MPG, which, again, given its overall size and abilities isn't out of line. In the end, the Escalade ESV Platinum Edition may well be the ultimate SUV — it's the biggest, most powerful SUV in its class, and offers perhaps the longest most aggressive list of optional extras in the field. That, in and of itself, is bold — but, then, what would one expect from an Escalade? •
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ON THE MARKET
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MAJESTIC
ROCKY POINT Palos Verdes Estates golfandlifestyle.com
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P
alos Verdes Estates is a quiet high-end residential community, with no street lights or traffic lights. Master planned by noted Central Park architect and planner Frederick Law Olmstead, Jr., Palos Verdes Estates is one of Southern California’s most exclusive and expensive neighborhoods. On the western side of the Peninsula reaching down to the shore of the Pacific Ocean, the city has a strong commitment to protect its unique character. Over a quarter of the city’s 3,038 acres is permanently protected as parkland and maintained in its natural state to preserve the rural atmosphere. The Mediterranean climate allows year round outdoor activities including hiking, biking, scenic walking, golf, tennis, surfing and fishing. Palos Verdes Estates boasts a diverse population of approximately 14,000 that is characterized by its family friendly and quiet atmosphere. The entire city is composed of “custom” homes with diversity in style, size and price. Homes here are located on streets that rest on hillsides, atop sea cliffs and ocean side bluffs, reminiscent of the French Riviera, and often provide excellent panoramic views
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of the City lights of the South Bay to Downtown Los Angeles, the coveted Queen’s Necklace, and Catalina Island. Soaring appreciation in Peninsula property values over the years mirrors the desirability of living in this extraordinarily beautiful setting. Palos Verdes Estates has something for everyone, and you will be amazed at all the city has to offer. Nestled within Palos Verdes Estates, a magnificent home is on the market. It is a five bedroom, five and half bathroom dream home. It is located on an ocean bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean’s
scenic Lunada Bay. This home is stunning in every detail. The gorgeous landscaping, spacious modern layout and incredible ocean views are only a few of the extravagant characteristics of this luxurious gated estate has to offer. Nothing was spared in the creation of this U shaped one level home. Soaring ceilings in the living and dining rooms gives a very dramatic effect, opening out to patios and grassy areas on the ocean front. The master suite with spectacular views provides the ultimate in comfort with its own fireplace, sitting area, enormous bathroom, and just steps to the outdoor ocean front spa. One of the spacious bedrooms is being used as a theater room. Each of the other four bedroom suites opens to the outside for the indoor/outdoor California lifestyle. For the connoisseur of life, this is an ideal home that is in perfect harmony with its surroundings. The architect, Pat Killan, and landscape designer have won awards for this elegant yet comfortable home that was completed in 2007. The perfect private, quiet get away can be yours for $5,800,000. • For more information visit 145rockypointroad.com.
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Sunice is devoted to cultivating products and experiences that allow its customers the freedom to play any way they like. Our products are designed and engineered to protect and perform from ultra mild to ultra extreme weather. We continually incorporate leading edge technology and innovations into the design of our outerwear. Sunice is versatile without losing authenticity and purpose: It’s specific to its sport, but general in its appeal.
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Q&A
MIKE KELLY Executive Director of Golf
Photos courtesy of The Grand Del Mar.
for PGA WEST
Golf & Lifestyle: Can you tell us about the history of golf at PGA WEST and the relevance of the 25-year anniversary? Mike Kelly: The history of La Quinta Resort and PGA WEST — a world-class resort and master-planned residential development nestled against the majestic Santa Rosa Mountains – has been marked by one golf-related milestone after another. The resort’s first golf course opened in 1926, the same year the resort itself opened. This course was closed during World War II. Then in 1957, La Quinta guests had access to a golf course opened at the La Quinta Country Club. In 1980, the Pete Dye-designed La Quinta Resort Dunes and Mountain courses were unveiled. Six years later, PGA WEST opened, offering resort guests access to the Stadium and Tournament courses. In 1999, PGA WEST’s beautiful Greg Norman Course opened, providing even more golfing options. When you look at U.S. golf history and the PGA WEST’s impact over the last 25 years, you realize the foresight and vision of the original developers of PGA WEST were really quite remarkable. When first conceived, the golf industry was just beginning to boom. The PGA WEST community was essentially built in the middle of nowhere — carved into the mountains amidst citrus groves and farmland – and there was nothing like this west of
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the Mississippi. More than 500 memberships were sold before it opened — a sign of things to come. Today, you cannot find any other place quite like La Quinta Resort and PGA WEST and its golf courses in terms of history, tradition and relevance. G & L: How did you celebrate/commemorate the 25-year anniversary? MK: Last year La Quinta Resort & Club celebrated an enduring affiliation with PGA WEST. It was a season-long celebration designed not only for Palm Springs, but also for our membership. We created “The Best of the West,” consisting of the Top 18 Holes culled from five iconic resort courses: the Pete Dye-designed Mountain and Dunes courses at La Quinta Resort & Club and the Greg Norman, Jack Nicklaus Tournament and TPC Stadium courses at PGA WEST. Golfers were invited to test their talents on all five courses and tackle “the sixth resort course” — the 18 most challenging and unique holes as researched and determined by PGA WEST pros. This offering is ongoing. Additionally, we asked course designers involved with PGA WEST — Greg Norman, Pete Dye, Arnold Palmer and Tom Weiskopf — to participate in our 25th anniversary video. All were happy to be a part of the video and enjoyed talking about PGA WEST — then, now and in the future. We celebrated with a tournament followed by a series of events. We created a 25th anniversary logo, branding all our collateral materials and products such as hats, bags and
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tee markers. The culmination was a festive 25th anniversary party attended by 1,000 members, including some of our very first members. It was a season of remembering the past and looking forward to the future. I think there was a huge sense of pride as present and past members reflected on the important role PGA WEST has played in the evolution of golf. G & L: The Bob Hope Classic, now the Humana Challenge, has been PGA WEST’s signature golf event for years. What is its history and current role with La Quinta Resort & Club and PGA WEST? How has it made an impact on the resort's golf programs? MK: More than 50 years ago, Mr. Hope had a vision of bringing people together to a major golf event, and this essentially helped put Palm Springs on the map. He brought a rich tradition to the Coachella Valley, and for over 25 years this event has kept PGA WEST relevant and in the forefront of the industry in terms of tournament play. This year, the tournament emerged with a new format, trophy and name — the Humana Challenge — and was held in partnership with the William J. Clinton Foundation with a fresh focus on health and well-being. We are, of course, very proud to be associated with this event, which has helped raise over $50 million to fund important institutions like the Eisenhower Medical Center and other area charities. With a new title sponsor and a goal to create health awareness across the U.S., the event will surely put the resort in the spotlight for years to come as a leader in health
and wellness. The impact this event has made on our resort and its golf programs is huge. When people see events like this on TV, they too want to come play our courses. Over the last 25 years, I can’t think of any other place that has held more televised, prestigious events than PGA WEST. Golfers from all over the world want to test their skills right here where the greats have played. G & L: What other important golf events take place at La Quinta Resort & Club and PGA WEST? MK: PGA WEST has hosted some of golf’s greatest tournaments, including the PGA Tour Q-School Finals, Prestige at PGA WEST Intercollegiate Invitational, the Lexus Challenge, Golf Channel Amateur Events, The Skins Game and PGA Grand Slam of Golf. G & L: How exactly is La Quinta Resort & Club affiliated with PGA WEST? MK: La Quinta Resort & PGA WEST have been intertwined under one ownership umbrella for over 20 years. The resort is critical to the success of PGA WEST and vice versa. This is not just a destination, but a lifestyle. The uniqueness and beauty of the resort and the community, combined with our amazing collection of golf courses offer an experience quite unlike any other. Ultimately, PGA WEST and La Quinta Resort & Club are one and the same. It’s a wonderful, productive relationship. No other destination in
the world has this much golf and rich history. G & L: La Quinta Resort & Club and PGA WEST are consistently ranked among the country’s top golf destinations. Why? MK: This is truly one of the places that at some point you want to play — to walk in the footsteps of so many great PGA tour pros. Quite simply, we are unlike any other venue in the world, especially with our weather, natural beauty and proximity to the coast. There is not a more impressive collection of golf courses on one campus in the country. G & L: You are responsible for a huge operation -- how do you manage to keep guests, members and employees happy? What is your work philosophy? MK: We are all about hospitality — about creating a unique experience for each guest. We hire exceptionally smart, curious, passionate people who have a real desire to serve others. They love what they do. We empower our staff to create these special guest experiences and provide them with the necessary tools to create a culture of caring and accountability. People are proud to work for our brand. We all think this is a special place to work and play. G & L: What specific programs and amenities do you offer? MK: We offer club rentals, as well as chipping areas, putting greens and practice bunkers, private lessons, group instruction, clinics, junior
golf camps and much more via the famed Jim McLean Golf School. The school is known for developing golf swing skills and game improvement for a variety of players, from beginners to touring professionals. The Little Links program at our Mountain Course is a new special offering designed just for kids. We offer customized VIP experiences for special occasions, such as fine and casual dining on the 16th tee of the Mountain Course, with sweeping vistas of the Coachella Valley. We develop individualized packages and work hard to create personalized and intimate guest programs. G & L: Can you touch on La Quinta Resort and PGA WEST’s green initiatives to date? MK: In the Coachella Valley, which hosts over 140 private and public golf courses, La Quinta Resort & Club’s Citrus Course was the first to achieve certification through the Audubon International program in 2004. Since then, all PGA WEST, La Quinta Resort & Club and Citrus Club courses have achieved certification. Sustainability requires leadership, vision and strategy. Many of our sustainability practices were implemented over the last few years because they are sound business and environmentally responsible decisions. Specific adapted practices include: composting green waste; reducing water and chemical usage; adding more native plants; selectively 'browning' out-of-play areas to further reduce water and chemical usage; instituting new recycling and fertilizer programs, including using slow release fertilizers;
lowering energy consumption by installing new VFD pump stations; and developing a microbial program to naturally reduce and control algae in lakes. G & L: What can golfers be on the lookout for this year at La Quinta Resort and PGA WEST? MK: On the green front, plans are in the works to continue irrigation upgrades with new heads and nozzles, as well as analyzing courses for more opportunities of no-mow areas and possible turf reduction with the installation of more native plants and grasses. Additionally, we will expand our recycling program and educational opportunities allowing club members and resort guests assist on the course and at home. We are finalizing a new concept for a performance and scoring center, which will combine club fittings, technology, health and wellness, biomechanics and a variety of concepts unique to us all beginning later this year. And, we will continue to cultivate our relationship with Humana while offering more incredible golf programs and events. G & L: How does La Quinta Resort & Club and PGA WEST live up to the slogan: The Western Home of Golf in America? MK: No other facility has nine signature courses, featuring the five top course designers in our industry, or held such an array of national PGA tour events. Quite simply, we have the greatest collection of golf courses in one location. There is no other place like this in the United States. •
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GALLERY
Still Life Purity Vodka by darren elms
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Kate’s Dilemma • 2 oz. Purity Vodka • 1 oz. lemon juice • .5 oz. agave nectar • 4-5 fresh strawberries Muddle strawberries with lemon juice and agave; add Purity Vodka and ice; shake and strain into martini glass. Garnish with a raspberry, mint leaf and blueberries. Learn more about Purity Vodka at purityvodka.com. •
Photo courtesy of Purity Vodka.
I
n the saturated market of vodka, it’s difficult to pinpoint a star with so much competition. It really comes down to taste…and touch more than a fancy bottle. One of the newest to hit the shelf comes direct from Sweden, with a top pedigree and boast of gold medals already in its corner. Introducing Purity Vodka. Purity Vodka is the result of a long lasting quest to redefine vodka, bringing character to a spirit that, by tradition, is more one of image and style rather than substance. Daring to stand out from the crowded cluster of neutral, mainstream vodkas, Purity has not been made to please everyone. It is full-bodied, complex and loaded with character yet, nevertheless smooth and sophisticated — a slightly “out of balance” sensation. Combining heritage and innovation, Purity Vodka comes to life in a proprietary pot still at the Purity Vodka Distillery at Ellinge Castle in the south of Sweden. Unlike other vodka producers, Purity has developed a still designed specifically for vodka production. During the thirty-four distillations, ninety percent of the liquid is lost. The remaining spirit is so pure that no filtration is necessary, leaving all of the natural flavors and character in the vodka. Because taste really does matter. Doesn’t hurt that the bottle looks nice on the bar too. If you’re looking for a new cocktail recipe, check out this satisfying creation from Purity:
COVER STORY
PHIL
MICKELSON 40
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Photo by Phillipe Lopez/Getty Images.
Photo by Donald Miralle/Getty Images.
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n 2011, Phil Mickelson surprised the golf world with an announcement that he had developed psoriatic arthritis. In a family where challenges have been common place, his wife’s battle with breast cancer and then his mother’s battle with breast cancer, this would seem to be another test of faith. Fortunately, with the newer forms of treatment available to treat his arthritic condition, there is hope that he will gain control of his
Another Mountain To Climb disease and prevent major disability. However, psoriatic arthritis is not your parent’s old age arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory form of joint disease which if left untreated will destroy joints to the point of total destruction. Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that will affect almost any joint in the body. It can affect the spine and sacroiliac joints and cause fusion. Joint fusion, or arthro-
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ABOUT PSOriatic arthritis • desis, is a surgical procedure that permanently holds a joint in a fixed position, and allows bone to grow across the joint, meaning the joint will never bend again. It can also affect the peripheral joints to the point of loss of function including shoulders, elbows, wrists, the small joints of the hands, knees, ankles and feet. There is a major difference between a joint that has been injured by a sports activity such as football or soccer that will eventually wear out as well. Psoriatic arthritis, on the other hand, as a result of inflammation will destroy the cartilage and the bone. The golf swing is like a fine precision instrument. If you damage any part of that instrument, it no longer works. That, I believe is the case with the golf swing, especially a golf swing with great precision like Phil Mickelson’s. It is easy to
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• •
•
Psoriatic arthritis affects at least 10% of the 3 million people with psoriasis in the United States. Psoriasis is the most prevalent autoimmune disease in the U.S. According to current studies, as many as 7.5 million Americans — approximately 2.2 percent of the population — have psoriasis. Joint symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include pain, swelling, redness, and stiffness. Inflammation can occur in almost any joint but typically affects the joints of the fingers and toes, which may cause the fingers to swell. Pain and swelling is also common where tendons and ligaments attach to bone.
understand that as a result of a disease like psoriatic arthritis, why this will be one of the major challenges in his whole life that will be difficult to conquer. Sure, current medications that he is now being treated with will make a major difference in terms of his outcome, but we are now talking about his golf swing. It is not hard to understand why his golf swing and golf grip, because of joint damage no matter how limited by treatment, will change his ability to master a golf course. We will need to understand this as we watch him play over the course of the next several years and have empathy and concern in his ability to remain in the high-ranking field that he has been accustomed to in the past. Psoriatic arthritis is a disease that affects children, adolescence and adults. It is not a disease of old age, it is a disease
Personal • After Masters victory in April 2004, did media tour of New York and Los Angeles that included appearances on "Late Night with David Letterman" and "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno". • Started hitting golf balls at 18 months. • Is right-handed in everything except golf. As his father demonstrated right-handed, he followed along left-handed. • An avid pilot, following in the footsteps of his father, Phil Sr., who was a Navy pilot. • With wife Amy, has been involved with the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, Homes for Our Troops and Birdies for the Brave the last three seasons, helping to raise money for these three organizations. • Mother, Mary, was honored as March of Dimes Mother of the Year in November 1998. • First golf-course design project, Whisper Rock, near Scottsdale, AZ, opened in 2001. • Former chair of the American Junior Golf Association.
Photo by Robert Beck/Getty Images.
Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images.
ABOUT PHIL MICKELSON
of the autoimmune system that will attack the joints as well as the skin. As a result of research sponsored by the Arthritis Foundation, we are now able to make a major difference in Phil Mickelson’s life, but it may not be of a degree that will allow him to perform at his utmost, especially in a field that is now dominated by such young men and women whose machine is without defects. As we watch the ‘older’ golfers’ struggle as a result of injuries be it Tiger Woods or Arnold Palmer, we can understand why his swing has become less perfect and less efficient.
Source: PGATour.com
Phil Mickelson has won four major golf championships and has reached a world ranking of second in multiple years. Mickelson recently was elected into the World Golf Hall of Fame. He and his wife are very passionate about helping families and youth through their Foundation. Hopefully with proper treatment and medication Phil Mickelson can continue to amaze us both on and of the course. •
Professional • 47 Professional Wins • 39 PGA Tour Wins • 7 European Tour Wins • 1 Challenge Tour Win • 5 Other Tour Wins Major Championship Wins • Masters Tournament Won in 2004, 2006, 2010 • U.S. Open placed second or tied for 2nd in 1999, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2009 • The Open Championship tied for 2nd in 2011 • PGA Championship won in 2005
For more information on psoriatic arthritis, please visit the Arthritis Foundation at arthritis.org.
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“aboutGolf is the world’s most progressive, technologically innovative indoor golf simulator company.” - Tim Hawes, PGA TOUR
Experience it at
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LUXURY
GIRARDPERREGAUX
Haute Horlogerie BY BRYAN MCKRELL
One of the most intriguing and vital aspects of the high-end wristwatch industry is History.
Tourbillon 220th Anniversary
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La Esmerelda
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“
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Girard-Perregaux turned 220 years old, which makes it one of the elder statesmen in the industry.
History is used to define a company’s legacy, to connote significance, and to enhance the buyer’s appreciation of the product. History adds instant value to a brand because it defines for the client a measure of quality that has been sustained over time and the concept of longevity. These two values help justify the typically large monetary outlay that accompanies the purchase of a great timepiece. The mechanical watch industry is a microcosm of one small section of History, which is constantly being refined, reinvented, and restored. Mechanical wristwatches by their very nature are antiquated technology that are chasing a level of timing accuracy that was conquered by the invention of the quartz movement and digital technologies. But that has not stopped today’s watchmakers from pushing the envelope to incorporate new technology that enhances the original design and engineering breakthroughs which allowed watchmakers to make history centuries ago. Silicon escapements, carbon fiber base plates, laser cut components, computer aided engineering, microscopic assemblage, and countless other modern day applications allow current watchmakers to improve upon and constantly refine mechanical watch-making inventions that are hundreds of years old. To this point one of the most well known and storied brands in the industry just celebrated a milestone birthday in 2011. Girard-Perregaux turned 220 years old, which makes it one of the elder statesmen of the industry. GP is one of the premier brands in the industry, and it has maintained a sterling reputation for decades. In honor of this birthday the company set up a “Worldwide Travelling Exhibition of Exceptional Timepieces from Its Museum Collection and of Rare Contemporary Watches.” The exhibition has travelled the world making stops in Singapore, Shanghai, New York, Paris, Mexico City, Moscow, and London. It highlights a number of pocket watches and historical timepieces that display the enormous breadth and depth that the company and its 80 patents have brought to bear on the world of timekeeping. This exhibition is the perfect example of how a watch company can highlight its exceptional history and relate it to the present day. One of the biggest highlights of the exhibit is a pocket watch
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that was designed by Constant Girard-Perregaux himself titled, “La Esmeralda.” This incredible pocket watch won a gold medal at the 1889 Universal Exhibition held in Paris France. Perregaux created a tourbillion movement which contained three gold bridges, giving it a very distinct look. The movement was no less impressive in its accuracy and achieved, “remarkable test results at the Neuchatel Observatory in Switzerland, attested by the institution’s issue of its rating certificate.” The case of the watch was covered in very ornate and decorative engravings which made it aesthetically appealing and most likely would have caught the eye of anyone who noticed the piece. After winning a gold medal in Paris, the piece travelled to Mexico where it was to be sold by the luxury Mexican boutique of Hauser and Zivy. It was not uncommon for older watches, especially high end, one of kind pieces to be commissioned by a luxury watch dealer or company, like Tiffany & Co in New York, for delivery to special customers. In the case of the La Esmeralda the ownership of the watch went to the President of Mexico, Mr. Porfirio Diaz, who led the country until 1911. The watch was reacquired by the company in the late 1960’s when it was purchased back from the Great Grandson of the President. Fast Forward to today and GP has commemorated its 220th anniversary and the uniqueness of the La Esmeralda by releasing the, “Girard-Perregaux 1966 Tourbillion with Gold Bridge, 220th Anniversary Special Edition.” This new timepiece brings back one of the most distinctive features of the La Esmeralda with a perfectly placed Gold Bridge centered over the exposed tourbillion cage on the front of the dial. The watch is striking in its appearance by contrasting a pink gold case, with a brilliant white face, accented by blue steel hands, the yellow gold bridge, with a ruby jewel at the center of the gold bridge. The tourbillion cage is visible through the dial and at 40 millimeters in diameter the case is significant but not too large. This watch blends elements of the historic piece with the modern technology and appearance of timepieces in present day. With an incredible back story, a little history, and a strikingly good looking and technologically advanced timepiece, GP has allowed 50 lucky clients to combine the old with the new in perfect harmony. •
Musee Pendant Watch
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Readers of Golf & Lifestyle Magazine in Southern California can visit Westime of Beverly Hills located at 254 North Rodeo Drive, where they have one of these timepieces for sale. The watch is simply striking to behold.
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ESCAPE
GOLF BRILLIANCE Renewed on Kauai
T
here has been a dramatic change in air on the island of Kauai over the last few years. With numerous enhancements recently completed at the lush resorts and golf courses, the “Garden Isle” is now an even more desirable destination for travelers, especially those with golf clubs. "People have always been inspired by Kauai’s tropical beauty, serenity and diversity of activities available,” says Sue Kanoho, executive director of the Kauai Visitors Bureau. “Not the least of which is golf, thanks to our array of award-winning courses."
Grand Hyatt Kauai
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Kauai Lagoons Kiele Moana Course
One of those award-winning courses, the Prince Course at Princeville — located on the North Shore of the island — re-opens in March following a year-long enrichment. This famous layout – known for its jungle golf brilliance – has consistently ranked among the top 100 golf courses nationally and No. 1 in Hawaii for years, and will now feature new greens, tee boxes and cleared fairways that will offer even more stunning sightlines. The massive 60,000-square-foot clubhouse and 13-acre practice range have also been refurbished. “Our most dramatic refinement efforts have been focused on the complete reconstruction of every green complex, recapturing hole locations that have been lost over time,” says Master Architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., who designed the Prince Course, which was originally completed in 1990. “In addition, fairway mowing patterns have been widened dramatically to promote a more enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.” Makai Golf Club, another one of RTJ II’s decorated layouts, sits next door to the Prince Course and has received rave reviews since re-opening in 2010 following a similar refurbishment program. Eighteen of the 27 Makai holes were renovated, highlighted by the installation of the eco and player-friendly Seashore Paspalum turf on tees, fairways and greens. Other renovation hallmarks included adding new, strategically placed bunkers, lengthening the course and expanding the practice area. Makai — best known for a pair of exceptional par-3 holes (No. 3 and No. 7) that feature striking views of the Pacific Ocean and Hanalei Bay — is an amenity of The St. Regis Princeville Resort, the ocean side commune that became the first of The St. Regis brand to land in Hawaii following a dramatic re-branding in 2009. Located in the 9,000-acre resort community of Princeville at Hanalei, The St. Regis provides guests all the services you would expect from a St. Regis, including guest rooms that include butler service and spectacular open-window views of the towering cliffs from the famed “Bali Hai.” RTJ II’s mark on Kauai doesn’t end on the North side of the island. In 1990, he added to his Garden Isle assembly with the opening of Poipu Bay Golf Course on the south side. Teamed with the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, the two venues combine to create one of the world’s best golf resorts. Situated on 210 beach-front acres, Poipu Bay is so dazzling it can be distracting to the golfer,
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Makai Golf Course
St. Regis Princeville Resort
particularly the closing stretch of holes that run parallel to the Pacific atop 150-foot-high cliffs. Phil Mickelson holds the Poipu course-record of 59, which he shot in 2004, during a 13-year stretch in which the club hosted the PGA Grand Slam of Golf. Poipu Bay has received rave reviews since re-opening in 2010 following a project that enhanced tee boxes and bunkers and installed Seashore Paspalum on all putting surfaces. Not to be outdone by its home golf course, the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa also completed a guest room and resort dining renovation in 2010. The resort’s Anara Spa offers a host of Hawaiian treatments, including the signature massage “Lomi Lomi” (meaning “to touch with loving hands”). All spa services can be experienced in the new outdoor garden spa, which offers five thatched roof huts all with calming treatment rooms. Last year’s major news on the island came from Kauai Lagoons Golf Club where the new Kiele Moana (Ocean) Course opened in May, introducing the longest stretch of continuous ocean holes in Hawaii. Located adjacent to the Kauai Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach, the former Kiele Back Nine added three new holes, replaced the greens and installed white silica sand bunkers. The course’s original designer, Jack Nicklaus, made a site visit during the Moana Course project and was thrilled to help re-inspire the Kiele tradition at Kauai Lagoons. “The new holes fit in nicely with what golfers have come to expect from the Kiele Golf Course
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– great golf holes with beautiful ocean panoramic views,” Nicklaus said. Next door, the Kauai Marriott Resort finished off a $50-million makeover on 2011, retouching the guest rooms, the lobby and dining areas while adding a new children’s pool to go along with the signature 26,000 square-foot pool, the largest single-level pool in all of Hawaii. Minutes away from the Kauai Marriott Resort you will find Puakea Golf Course, which provides a break from “resort-style” golf, but certainly doesn’t lack the magnificent views or unique hole layouts that its fellow island courses offer. This Robin Nelson-designed layout was once a 10-hole, oddity after the damaging Hurricane Iniki swept through Kauai in 1992. AOL co-founder Steve Case purchased the course and had Nelson finalize the design, and the result is what many locals call the “hidden gem” of Kauai. Each hole flows seamlessly with the land, offering up-close mountain views adjacent to where Steven Spielberg’s “Jurassic Park” was filmed. • For more information about golf on the Garden Isle visit kauaidiscovery.com/activities/golfing/ or call 800-262-1400.
Available at Pete Carlson’s Golf & Tennis
You just can’t beat Pete! 73-741 Hwy 111 • Palm Desert • (760) 568-3263 • petecarlsonsgolf.com Open Monday-Saturday 9-6 • Sunday 11-5
DON’T MISS THE DESERT’S BIGGEST AND BEST GOLF EXPO! Friday and Saturday, February 10th and 11th from 9am-4pm at the College Golf Center Driving Range on Fred Waring in Palm Desert. The biggest names in Golf Equipment plus food and great live jazz! Free Club Demo • Free Golf Clinics • Free Custom Club Fitting Special Pricing • Free Admission & Parking
GALLERY
Come As You Are
The Kurt Cobain Jaguar Guitar BY DARREN ELMS
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Photo courtesy of Fender.
F
or those of us who lived through the grunge era of the early '90s, the flannel and bed head hair may be gone, but the music of Nirvana, and especially the legend of Kirk Cobain, lives on in music history. It’s hard to believe that more than 20 years have passed since the band's seminal 1991 album Nevermind rocked a generation and inspired a cultural movement. To commemorate this music milestone, Fender proudly introduces one of its most distinctive signature models ever, the Kurt Cobain Jaguar guitar, meticulously modeled on the battered 1965 Jaguar that the Nirvana singer, guitarist and songwriter wielded during the band’s momentous burst out of the Pacific Northwest. The guitar’s unusual detail, including its worn finish, dual humbucking pickups and unique electronics and controls (which were already in place when Kurt acquired the guitar in the summer of 1991), make this a must-have for the fan or collector. Unique features include an alder body with Road Worn aged finish and hardware treatment, bound fretboard with pearloid dot markers, Stratocaster headstock shape with 1950s-style “spaghetti” logo under the finish, DiMarzio® humbucking DP103 PAF 36th Anniversary neck pickup and DP100 Super Distortion bridge pickup, triple knurled “chrome-dome” knob configuration (volume-volumetone), three-position toggle switch, black chrome Adjusto-Matic™ bridge and Gotoh® sealed tuners. The guitar is available in right- and left-handed versions. Accessories include a black textured vinyl hard-shell case and an exclusive Fender Kurt Cobain book featuring extensive photos and commentary by Charles Peterson and an insightful interview with Nirvana guitar tech Earnie Bailey. Priced at $1,850. For more, visit fender.com. •
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THE CARNEROS INN The Carneros Inn is a luxury resort located in the heart of Napa Valley’s Carneros winegrowing district. It is located at the gateway to the Northern California wine country, 45 minutes from downtown San Francisco,. The Carneros Inn is the first full-service resort to be built in Napa in 20 years, and the first ever in the world-renowned Carneros wine region. golfandlifestyle.com
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The Inn was designed to provide visitors and residents with world-class hospitality services amidst some of California’s most picturesque vineyard landscapes, as well as a town square for the Carneros community, The Carneros Inn provides an unforgettable experience. The resort features 86 charming, private guest cottages and suites and nightly private luxury Home rentals, each furnished with casual elegance and nestled in a lush garden courtyard with private deck. The cottages are designed to combine the feeling of a sophisticated vacation home with all the conveniences of a top-flight hotel. Cottage amenities include wood-burning fireplaces, outdoor gas heaters for cool fall evenings on the patio, indoor and outdoor showers with heated-slate floors, large-screen plasma TVs, DVD/CD player, T-1 speed Internet access over interior and exterior Ethernet ports, Italian bed linens, Frette towels, breakfast baskets and regular morning newspaper delivery. The cottages have been designed with classic contemporary furniture, an abundance of natural light, cherry wood floors, vaulted ceilings and luxurious bathrooms with heated-slate floors. Innovative dining options at The Carneros Inn, include the architecturally dramatic Hilltop Dining Room, FARM, and The Boon Fly Café, a roadhouse-style public eatery. The property also offers outdoor terrace dining and an infinity pool, both with panoramic vineyard views; bar and award-winning spa facilities. The internationally acclaimed Spa at The Carneros Inn, another unique element of the property, incorporates local ingredients in treatments that are categorized by distinctive wine country themes: Harvests, Minerals, Cellars, Farms and Creeks. Examples include a Warm Goat Butter Massage, an Organic Harvest Paprika Facial and a Grape Seed and Guava Body Scrub, all inspired by the natural resources of the Carneros region. And, most importantly, first-class service delivered with warmth and ease. The Carneros Inn was named “one of the 25 most romantic getaways in the world” by Travel + Leisure magazine. In addition to the hotel accommodations, 24 stylish resort homes are located on the grounds, allowing homeowners access to all the services and conveniences of the luxury hotel, including concierge and event planning. • The Carneros Inn is located at 4048 Sonoma Highway Napa, CA. For more information please visit thecarnerosinn.com. or call (888) 400-9000.
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HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT
SOCIAL SECURITY?
S
BY SAFEGUARD INVESTMENT ADVISORY GROUP, LLC ocial Security is in the news more and more, as the first wave of baby boomers retire and economic pressures on the program increase. More than 90% of Americans are covered by Social Security, but how much do you know about this important program?
How is Social Security funded? Unlike many government programs, Social Security is funded primarily through the collection of payroll taxes. In 2010, 81.9% of funding came from this source, with the rest derived from interest earned on government bonds held by Social Security trust funds and income taxes paid on benefits. That's why Social Security is known as a "pay-as-you-go" system. However, someone working and paying Social Security taxes today is not funding his or her own benefits, but is funding the benefits of someone who is receiving them now or in the near future--one of the reasons why Social Security is facing a potential funding shortfall. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the number of retired workers will double in less than 30 years, but there will be fewer workers paying into the system. And with life expectancies increasing, benefits will be paid for a longer period. How are earnings reported to the SSA? If you work for an employer, your employer will send a copy of your W-2 form annually to the SSA. If you're self-employed, the IRS will report your earnings to the SSA annually after your federal income tax return has been processed.
early retirement benefits at age 62, while almost 73% of people apply for benefits before they reach full retirement age. How much more will you receive if you delay applying for benefits? For each year past your full retirement age you delay receiving benefits, your Social Security benefit will increase by a certain percentages. (8% for anyone who was born in 1943 or later). For example, if your full retirement age is 66 and you delay receiving benefits until age 70, your annual benefit will be 32% higher. Can you receive benefits based on an ex-spouse's record? You may qualify for divorced spousal benefits if you were married for at least 10 years, you haven't remarried, you are age 62 or older, and you don't qualify for a higher benefit based on your own work record. Do workers with lower earnings receive more from Social Security? A worker who has lower earnings will receive a lower monthly benefit than someone with higher earnings because benefits are based on average lifetime earnings (the highest 35 years of earnings are used in the calculation). However, the Social Security benefit formula is designed to ensure that workers with lower earnings receive a greater percentage of their preretirement earnings. For example, a worker with relatively low earnings may receive a benefit that is approximately 55% of his or her preretirement earnings, while a worker with relatively high earnings may receive a benefit that is approximately 25% of his or her earnings.
How do you qualify for benefits? As you work and pay payroll taxes, you earn Social Security credits. Generally, you need to work 10 years to earn enough credits to qualify for retirement benefits--other benefits have different requirements. Contact the SSA if you have any questions about your benefit entitlement.
Do you have to stop working to receive Social Security retirement benefits? No. As long as you've reached early retirement age and meet eligibility requirements, you can apply for Social Security benefits even if you decide to continue working. However, if you're younger than full retirement age and earn more than a certain amount, your benefits will be temporarily reduced (once you reach full retirement age, your benefits will be increased to account for the money that was withheld). •
Do most people apply for early retirement benefits? Yes. According to a report by the Government Accounting Office (GAO), 43% of people take
Safeguard Investment Advisory Group can be contacted at safeguardinvestment.com or at (951)667-4979.
What benefits are available? Although Social Security is known as a retirement program, benefits are paid to people of all ages, including surviving family members and disabled individuals. In 2010, 5.7 million people were awarded Social Security benefits. Of those, 46% were retired workers, 36% were survivors or spouses/children of retired or disabled workers, and 18% were disabled workers.
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Photo Š pixinity/fotolia.com.
FINANCE
Experience Indian Wells Golf Resort
The only facility with both courses ranked in Top 20 Best Courses You Can Play In California – by GolfWeek 2010 and Golf Magazine 2010 Both Courses Ranked in “Top 20 Best Municipal Courses” in the Country Players Course Ranked #7 and Celebrity Course Ranked #16 – Golfweek 2010 Golf Digest’s Top 50 Courses for Women – Golf Digest “America’s Top 50 Courses for Women” Golf World’s 2010 Top 100 Golf Shops – Golf World’s “100 Best Golf Shops” Only minutes from Palm Springs set amid the majesty of the Santa Rosa Mountains in Southern California, the secluded enclave of Indian Wells offers world-class resort accommodations, outstanding restaurants, shimmering pools, luxurious spas, championship tennis and two award-winning golf courses – all located within walking distance.
To learn more about this world class destination call 760.346.4653 or visit us online at www.indianwellsgolfresort.com 44-500 Indian Wells Lane • Indian Wells, California 92210
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19TH HOLE COCKTAIL
C Indonesian Delight
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INGREDIENTS: 2.5 oz. Bacardi Superior Rum 2 oz. ginger ale 1 oz. simple syrup Splash fresh lime juice 1 Tea Forté Lemongrass Mint cocktail infuser Lime wedge and fresh mint sprig for garnish Combine rum, ginger ale, simple syrup and lime juice into a cocktail shaker over ice and shake. Fill champagne flute with fresh ice leaving space at the top for the Tea Forté infuser. Pour contents of shaker into flute, place the infuser on top of the poured beverage. Garnish with lime wedge and mint sprig. •
Photo courtesy of Club M.
Club M’s
lub M at The Grand Del Mar Golf Club offers sweeping views of the course’s spectacular fairways. It was named “M” for memories and the memories that will be made here. It’s a go-to spot for enjoying casual fare, lounging while watching sports events, and then it turns into a nightclub with dancing, live and DJ entertainment and a lively bar scene. Sipping a favorite 19th hole cocktail such as this exotic Indonesian Delight is the perfect ending to a day made of memories at San Diego’s only Tom Fazio-designed golf course.
Expect the Unexpected The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel invites you to experience our re-imagined surfside retreat. Awaken your senses with our unique ocean-front setting and remarkable service heritage. The premiere destination for travelers, who desire a playful approach to true Southern California luxury. We’ve changed everything, but the view.
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One Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, California 92629 RitzCarlton.com/laguna
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949.240.2000