It’s time again for the annual Getaway Gang Outing. This year we are headed for the Great Northwest. Lake Coeur d’Alene Lake in Idaho is gorgeous pristine country with two outstanding Resort Golf Courses. The Coeur d’Alene Resort which is right on the lake is renowned for it’s famous (one and only) complete island green. Additionally it has been rated by Golf Digest as one of only 16 (out of 6,200 courses) to be rated 5 stars. The second is the Circling Raven course which is part of the Coeur d’Alene Resort/Hotel/Casino on an Indian reservation just 30 miles south of the town of Coeur d’Alene. It has been rated 4 ½ stars by Golf Digest and renowned for it’s pristine course and abundant wildlife. To top it off, both courses have GPS in their carts. Since this trip will be taking us north, the weather is a bit chilly there in the Spring so we will be moving this trip to early Fall. Most folks like to spend their summers with their families, so this trip has been scheduled for September. Early Fall is a beautiful time of year to visit Idaho.

Golf Date: Sunday – September 13, 2015 Monday – September 14, 2015Place: Circling Raven Golf Club Coeur d’Alene Golf Resort First Tee Time: 10:00 AM 10:00 AM

Beautiful Coeur d'Alene Idaho is truly a town with attractions for everyone. This small town turned resort community is a destination for many who seek to escape to a quieter and gentler place. A variety of activities ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy during their stay. This will be your opportunity to golf at world-renowned courses such as the Coeur d'Alene resort with its famous floating green. There's so much more, from the Silverwood Theme Park, to dining aboard floating restaurants, or riding the historic paddle wheel boats. Let Coeur d’Alene be our getaway as we explore this exciting corner of the American Northwest.

The Circling Raven Golf Course was created amid a unique blend of wetlands, grasslands and woodlands. At 7,189 yards, the par 72 championship layout meanders through 620 acres, only 100 representing cultivated ground. Wildlife is abundant, including elk, deer, moose and an occasional black bear. In fact, the opening was delayed due to damage on two greens by migrating elk. The clubhouse is 6,500 square feet, including the Twisted Earth Grill and full service bar. Locker rooms include showers and lockers. The practice facility covers 25 acres; separated into areas for wedges, sand play and all clubs in the bag. The resort adjacent to the course includes 202 hotel rooms, casino, events center, buffet, and restaurant, off track betting and conference/convention facilities

The Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course is home to the famous floating, movable green on the shores of beautiful Lake Coeur d'Alene in Northern Idaho. Yes, The world's first and only floating island golf green. Meet owner Duane Hagadone and discover his story from vision to creation of one of the most recognizable golf holes in the world. Check it out: http://www.cdaresort.com/golf/the_course/floating_greenThe Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course was the site of a sawmill, which operated from 1916 to 1988, It was shut down in the early 70's and sat idle until the Hagadone Corp. purchased it. The Hagadone Corporation bought the property in 1988 and developed the golf course and the floating green. Designer Scott Miller's vision was to create a golf course that offered a stimulating round of golf, immersing players in a pristine park-like environment. The result is fairways that play on a lush carpet of Bent Grass, accented with beds of brilliant red Geraniums, acres of Junipers and the mountain water challenges of Lake Coeur d'Alene and Fernan Creek. The 6,803 yard par 71 course boasts a view of the lake from every hole and is designed around four distinct geographic features: an expansive lakeshore, a forested ridge, gently rolling woodlands and Fernan Creek. Former PGA Tour Professional, Chip Beck, called The Coeur d'Alene Course one of the finest he has ever seen, lauding it as a course playable for novices, yet challenging enough to test the pros.

Here is the plan. As usual. Saturday will be a travel day for most. If you are planning to fly in, Spokane, Washington is the nearest major Airport. Southwest Airlines flies into Spokane (one of the reasons this area was selected) and with Southwest, two bags fly with you for free (suitcase and golf bag!). From Spokane, Coeur d’Alene is only 35 miles east. Worley (Circle Raven) is about 38 miles southeast of Spokane with the three destinations making a triangle. Lodging will be totally up to you and your likings. One option is to spend the first night down at the Resort Casino in Worley and then move up to Coeur d’Alene Resort for the final two days. If you aren’t into casino action you may opt to stay all three days up in Coeur d’Alene at ether the resort or other hotels in the area. With this option you would need to drive down to the Circle Raven course on Sunday (approximately 30 miles south). Lots of options…you decide. I have included a page of info on both of the resorts in this package. Golfing will be on Sunday and Monday with Tuesday probably being the return day for most. If you want to stay longer and relax…that is always an option. This is not a package deal with the Resort Hotels and their associated golf courses so you may stay wherever you please.

This year as in the past, group dinners are planned. The first dinner social Sunday night will be on the lake at the Beachouse Restaurant. The second dinner social Monday night will be at Tony’s Restaurant also on the shores of Coeur d’Alene Lake. Both are just southeast of the golf course.

If you have any questions, feel free to inquire,Lad MeairsEmail: meairs2@comcast.net (home) or laddin.d.meairs@lmco.com (work)Phones: (925) 978-0170 (home) – (925) 829-8615 ext 330 (work) – (925) 813-2465 (cell)

If you are playing both courses, the total will be $270.00 Mail checks to: Lad Meairs

1254 Mokelumne Court Antioch, CA 94531

Circling Raven Golf ClubSouth Hwy 95Worley, Idaho 83876Phone: 1- 800 523-2464

Coeur d’Alene Resort 115 South 2nd StreetCoeur d’Alene, Idaho 83814Phone: 1-800-688-5253

SpokaneSpokaneWAWA

Website:

Place: Circling Raven Resort & Casino Date: Sunday–September 13, 2015

Course: Circling Raven Golf Club Tee Time: 10:00 AM (first group)Location: Worley, Idaho Price $100.00

www.circlingraven.com

Circling Raven Golf Club is a place where nature still reigns supreme; a land of big skies, tall trees and views that can only be described as spectacular. Gene Bates is truly a golf course architect, for nowhere is this beautiful golf course at odds with its surroundings. Circling Raven's cart path is an unobtrusive ribbon that meanders around the course for more than eight miles, leading you from one grand vista to the next. This is especially true of the final eight holes, a finishing stretch that will create memories to last a lifetime; a finishing stretch that Tom Davidson, director of golf at Circling Raven, calls "our 360-degree holes." What he’s saying is that, no matter which direction you look, you’ll be stunned by endless panoramas of Northern Idaho’s pristine wilderness345,000 acres of mountains, lakes, old-growth forest and farmland. The resort spans the western edge of the northern Rocky Mountains. Circling Raven Golf Club was created from a unique blend of wetlands, grasslands and woodlands. The 7,189-yard, par 72-championship layout stretches across more than 620 acres of Northern Idaho. Wildlife is abundant, including elk, deer, moose and an occasional black bear. In fact, the opening was delayed due to damage on two greens by migrating elk. Circling Raven is a links-style course with wetlands impacting play on 13 of the 18 holes. Tall grasses and wetlands will challenge you on 16 holes while the entire course is lined with pines, aspens, cottonwoods and birch trees that form a natural backdrop from tee to bent grass greens. All of which are meticulously manicured. This is a shot-maker’s course. To score well you’ll need to consistently hit the fairways. The four par 3s are all tough, each measure more than 200 yards from the Gold Tees. The 4th, the toughest hole on the course, is an innovation: relatively short (406 yards off the Gold tees), your tee shot must carry a stretch of wetland that forms in front of the tee, then sweeps left and extends all along the left side of the fairway, the green, and beyond. The fairway itself is split by five bunkers, all strategically placed to gather even the slightest of wayward shots. The ninth is a long, par 4 of 474 yards that doglegs endlessly left and is rated the 3rd toughest hole on the course. Circling Raven is a true test of golf but, with five sets of tees, still offers a fair and pleasing experience to golfers of all levels of skill.

Place: The Coeur d’Alene Resort Date: Monday – September 14, 2015

Course: Coeur d’Alene Golf Course Tee Time: 10:00 AM (first group)Location: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Price $170.00

Website:

About The Golf Course and the World's Only Floating GreenSize: 15,000 Square FeetMovement: Playable Yardage 95-200 Yards (dependant on daily tee markers)Distance: Average of 147 yards (changes every day with distance controlled by computer)Transportation to the island green: Two custom, hand crafted, Honduran Mahogany Water TaxisThe Course: Par 71 with 6,803 yards in Length (Gold - 6,803; Blue - 6,343; Tan - 5,914; Copper - 5,436; Mauve - 4,448). Course Designer: Scott MillerThe Course includes 4.5 miles of concrete cart paths and encompasses 200 AcresContoured course so you are not able to see other golfers with lake views from all 18 holesLaser Distance Reader: The only Golf Course in the world to use themBent Grass: All Tees, Greens, and Fairways provide a playing surface on the Fairways that are equal to what can be found on normal greens elsewhereAwards: Readers' Choice Golf Magazine 2009: Ranked #7 Resort Golf Course in AmericaGolfWorld Magazine 2008: Gold Medal Award - Designated among the Top 20 Courses in AmericaCondé Nast Traveler Magazine 2007: Ranked 40th in the world, and 18th in the continental U.S.Golf Odyssey 2000: Top 20 in the world and perfect scores for golf experience and course service5-Star Designation from Golf Digest - one of only 16 out of 6,200 courses rated to receive 5 starsForecaddie: 1 Caddie per Foursome - Private Concierge for Guests: Rakes Sand traps, Finds Golf Balls, Cleans Clubs, Provides DistancesPractice Area: Over the water Practice Range using floating golf balls2,400 sq. ft. putting green, 3,500 sq. ft. chipping green, practice sand bunkersComplimentary sports massage therapy on Practice RangeLuxury Carts: Custom designed carts feature heated seats, Tilt Steering, Tee Dispenser, Beverage Cart Cooler, Shoe/Accessory Storage Area, Waste Receptacle, Ball and Club Washers (eliminating all waste receptacles, ball washers and club washers on Course)Tee Times: 10 minute interval Tee Times so players do not feel rushed

http://www.cdaresort.com/golf

The Radisson Fort McDowell Resort is adjacent to Fort McDowell Casino. Try your luck at live keno, live bingo, card games and slot machines. We feature no-limit poker tournaments each day.

Room RatesSaturday Night (9/12/15) - $150Saturday Night (9/12/15) - $150Sunday Night (9/13/15) - $110Sunday Night (9/13/15) - $110Monday Night (9/14/15)- $110Monday Night (9/14/15)- $110

The Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel invites you to experience spectacular Northern Idaho, surrounded by tall trees, blue skies, snow-capped mountains, and majestic lakes. Come for unforgettable fun and excitement, whether your plans call for a family vacation or a business conference. The newly-expanded resort hotel features an inviting 24 hour indoor pool, Jacuzzi and a workout room. The new 12,500 square foot conference center can accommodate meetings and banquets for up to 1,000 people. All guest rooms have internet connections and off track betting access. The hotel shuttle picks up at the Spokane airport for registered guests. A Free shuttle is also available to and from Coeur d'Alene and Post Falls. 24-hour advance reservation are required.

The Casino Resort produces the biggest jackpots in the Northwest, including one of over $1 million. From cash to Cadillacs, winners take home more here. Games include: Classic blackjack with a high tech twist. Including World Poker Tour, Dragon Baccarat, and Roulette. Blackjack is played with virtual cards and chips but with a real live dealer. You'll love the automatic card totaling and it can even give you suggestions on how to play your hand! Other options include progressive and standard Slot Machines, Bingo Parlor and Off Shore Betting facility

Deluxe Two Queen Room Amenities: Complimentary Local Paper, 42" TV, Iron/Ironing Board, Coffee Maker, Hair Dryer, Internet (Wireless) and mini-refrigerator

Complex Amenities: 24 Hour Indoor Pool Hot tub, Fitness Center Conference/Meeting Room (12,500sq foot). Coffee Maker Restaurants (On Premises), Casino (On Premises), Ssakwa'q'n Spa (On Premises) Concert/Event Center (On Premises) Cribs, Complimentary Local Newspaper and Video Arcade

Coeur D’Alene Resort & Casino37914 South Nukwalqw

Worley, ID 83876 Phone:  (208) 769-2600

http://www.cdacasino.com/Website:Website:

CasinoCasino

The Radisson Fort McDowell Resort is adjacent to Fort McDowell Casino. Try your luck at live keno, live bingo, card games and slot machines. We feature no-limit poker tournaments each day.

Room RatesSunday Night (9/13/15) - $190Sunday Night (9/13/15) - $190Monday Night (9/14/15) - $190Monday Night (9/14/15) - $190

Ultimately there is something magical about a visit to The Coeur d'Alene Resort With idyllic landscape, year-round activities, and its spectacular setting at the shore of one of America's most beautiful lakes, it is no wonder that Coeur d'Alene has been christened the "Playground of the Northwest". At The Coeur d'Alene Resort they have mastered the art of relaxation. With luxurious accommodations, rejuvenating spa treatments, sumptuous cuisine, and breathtaking holiday displays, this four-star resort continues to be the destination of choice for discerning travelers worldwide. Escape to Ultimate Luxury - Discover the Beauty - Celebrate the Season The magic awaits you at The Coeur d'Alene Resort!

Deluxe West Lake and East Park Marina accommodations are well appointed with contemporary Italian furnishings, executive style work desk and large bay windows with either Lake or Park Marina views. Room Amenities include executive style work desk, cotton robes, luxury toiletries, hair dryers, iron and board, 32" flat screen TVs, in-room movies, Clock/Radio, wireless internet access and complimentary coffee & tea.

During your stay, they’re certain you will especially appreciate the dining options at the Coeur d'Alene Resort. Whether you're in the mood for sushi, fresh Idaho trout, a taste of the region's finest wine cellar, or a world-famous Gooey dessert, they will take care of your craving. Ranging from exquisite five-star gourmet fare to casual, family-friendly dining, The Coeur d'Alene Resort offers several dining options for your next visit. Their array of restaurants are uniquely exceptional and are sure to satisfy the most discriminating palate. Their culinary team is unmatched, and their service is renowned. It's just another example of their commitment to excellence.

The Coeur d’Alene ResortThe Coeur d’Alene Resort115 South 2nd Street

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83814Phone: 1-800-688-5253 Website:Website: http://www.cdaresort.com/resort

The 15,000-square-foot spa is the work of a team of spa visionaries, including noted designer TAG Gaylean. The $10 million spa features the acclaimed $100,000 SilverTAG Shower, the region's first medi-spa, as well as a private grooming enclave exclusively for men, equipped with a Ferrari-red leather barber chair, and treatments derived from the surrounding nature. Relying on the medicinal value of Idaho's fragrant spruce, cedar and mineral-rich lake algae to soothe and revitalize, the Spa's unique treatments for men and women include wraps, exfoliations, massage, facials and hydrotherapy baths

Hotel Rating Rate (Avg per night)

Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Hayden *** $150American Country Bed & Breakfast *** $145Holiday Inn Express *** $145Hampton Inn & Suites *** $125The Roosevelt Inn & Spa *** $120La Quinta Inn & Suites – East *** $120Red Lion Templins Hotel *** $110Ameritel Inn *** $110La Quinta Inn ** $ 85Comfort Inn ** $ 80Shilo Inn Suites *** $ 80Days Inn ** $ 70Super 8 Motel ** $ 50

Here is a sampling of the Hotels in the Lake Coeur d’Alene area (during the dates of September 12, 2015 – September 14, 2015). This data was collected off the Travelocity site. Rates are an average for the three nights (Saturday will obviously be more expensive, with Sunday and Monday being cheaper)

Inn at Eagle Mountain – Fountain Hills

Monday Evening – Dinner Social - September 14, 2015Monday Evening – Dinner Social - September 14, 2015

Outdoor and indoor dining at the water's edge. A locals' favorite overlooking Lake Coeur d'Alene at Silver Beach Marina. The Beachouse offers mouth-watering lakeside specialties and the freshest seafood in town. Try the signature Huckleberry Barbecue Ribs, the Chef's Fresh Catch Halibut, Signature Pasta Dishes or their USDA Certified Steaks. With a full bar, you'll love your time on the water. Beachouse is quaint and rustic with a wonderful nautical charm. Location: At the water's edge overlooking Silver Beach Marina — adjacent to The Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course.http://www.beachousecda.com/index.html

Tony’s on the Lake has been completely remodeled. It is a jewel within the community. Tony’s is a warm Italian restaurant with a rich heritage of Italian cooking which has been brought to the Inland Northwest in this cozy lakeside restaurant. Tony's fine Italian restaurant is tucked away on the east side of beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene just east of downtown Coeur d’Alene, Idaho on Coeur d'Alene Lake Drive in Bennet's Bay. This restaurant is owned by the D’Alessandro family, Paul, Bonnie, and daughter Cheyenne. Paul’s grandparents emigrated from Tuscany in 1909, and passed on their love of cooking to future generations. The entire family would love to see you come in and enjoy their incredible hospitality, comfortable and warm dining room ambience plus delicious authentic Italian inspired cuisine. An Outside dining area was completed in 2005 which has added a whole new experience for customers to enjoy beautiful views of the lake. Their menu has something for everybody with a large selection of pasta dishes and main entrees that include veal, pork, chicken, sirloin steak, short ribs and seafood.tonysonthelake@yahoo.com

Tony's On The Lake 6823 Coeur d'Alene

Lake Drive Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

(208) 667-9885

4316 E Coeur D'Alene Lake Drive

Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814(208) 664-6464

SundaySunday Evening – Dinner Social –Evening – Dinner Social – September 13, 2015September 13, 2015

Families love traveling to Coeur d’Alene.  The natural setting makes for a giant outdoor playground complete with the lakefront, rivers, beaches, trails, and tree-lined parkways.  The Downtown waterfront area offers a number of exciting options such as seaplane rides over the lake; parasail rides high above the water, jet skis, kayaks, paddleboats and canoes for rent.  It is also where you will find the world’s longest floating boardwalk, located at the Coeur d’Alene Resort.   Built in 1986, the boardwalk is over ¾ of a mile long and offers rest stops with benches for those who want to savor the amazing lake views, or keep a watch out for osprey or bald eagles.  The Coeur d’Alene City Park is only a couple of minutes from Downtown.  It adjoins the City Beach area and is home to huge trees, basketball courts, picnic areas, chainsaw art from local artists, and a 14,000 square-foot wooden play-ground modeled after the real Fort Sherman, which used to stand near the site.    Running adjacent to the park is the Centennial Trail.  This Trail stretches in either direction with 23 miles of paved surfaces perfect for bike riding, roller-blading, strollers, or simply striding along.      On the southeastern side of the Coeur d’Alene Resort you will find Tubbs Hill, 122 acres of natural beauty which has been untouched except for the trail system which leads under Ponderosa pines through basalt rock outcroppings.  A favorite walking spot for visitors and locals alike.    Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises explore the bays and inlets of one of the world’s most beautiful lakes.  The cruises, which leave from Independence Point just west of the Coeur d’Alene Resort, depart on a regular basis for daily cruises, Shadowy St. Joe River Cruises, Sunset Dinner Cruises and Sunday Brunch Cruises.  The West Coast River Queen on the Spokane River offers daily summer cruises, dinner trips, and fall foliage weekend cruises

Want big rides, big slides, and big fun? You've found it. Located in beautiful North Idaho, Silverwood Theme Park has over 65 rides, shows and attractions, including four roller coasters, the Boulder Beach Water Park, a steam engine train, live entertainment, restaurants, and more. .