The recent stretch of mild weather has been a welcome change here in the Miami Valley, and many golfers are understandably eager to be outside teeing it up.

A quick reminder that Ohio is currently in the inactive season, meaning scores cannot be posted during this period. While weather conditions may feel very playable, the inactive season exists to account for factors that aren’t always obvious on the scorecard.

From an agronomic standpoint, turf can still be vulnerable this time of year. Dormant or partially dormant grass, frozen ground cycles, and reduced recovery time mean that wear and tear—even in good weather—can result in lasting damage that shows up later in the spring.

Course Rating™ and Slope Rating™ are based on “normal” playing conditions, and winter conditions—however subtle—can alter effective playing length and difficulty in ways that aren’t always apparent.

We encourage golfers to enjoy the opportunity to play when conditions allow, while also respecting course policies and understanding why the inactive season remains important for both fair handicapping and long-term course health.

As always, thank you for supporting the game and the golf courses of the Miami Valley.

Jim Hulsizer (Pictured on Left) passed away just months short of his 100th birthday, leaving behind a remarkable connection to the Springfield golf community that spanned more than eight—arguably nine—decades. His life in the game was centered at Snyder Park and Reid Park Golf Courses, where he began as a caddie and later became a familiar figure as a player, competitor, and volunteer.

Over the years, Jim earned respect not only for his longevity but for his steady presence and commitment to municipal golf. His accomplishments included winning the Snyder Park Championship and the Springfield Industrial Championship in 1955. Through military service, professional life, and retirement, Jim always returned to the game and the courses he loved. His decades of involvement reflect a lifetime dedication to golf in Springfield and the community it serves.

Two individuals with strong ties to Ohio will be honored at the USGA Annual Meeting. Jerry Lemieux of Toledo will receive the Joe Dey Award, recognizing nearly two decades of service as a USGA committee member and one of the organization’s most respected rules officials. Lemieux has worked at the game’s highest levels, including U.S. Opens and Walker Cup matches, and is widely known for his leadership, reliability, and mentorship of volunteers. He is also a past president of the Northern Ohio Golf Association and will serve as general chair of the 2027 U.S. Women’s Open at Inverness Club.

Paul Latshaw Sr., now of Pennsylvania, will receive the USGA Green Section Award. Latshaw is one of the most influential figures in golf course maintenance history and the only superintendent to host all three U.S. men’s majors. His career helped set modern standards for championship course preparation, and his legacy continues through the many superintendents and industry leaders he mentored over decades in the profession.

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The Wright State Golf Auction directly benefits the Wright State University Men’s Golf Team and supports the continued success of the program. The auction features an outstanding collection of golf experiences, including access to many of the Miami Valley’s premier private clubs, along with several well-known and highly regarded clubs from outside the region. These exclusive offerings provide a unique opportunity for golfers while making a meaningful impact on Wright State Golf.

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Bob Holz is a new Miami Valley Golf volunteer and a longtime resident of the region, having lived in the Miami Valley for nearly 40 years. A Lebanon, Ohio resident, Bob was introduced to golf by his father and has enjoyed the game ever since.

A former high school golfer, Bob has played for many years and recorded several notable finishes in club and local events. Now retired after a career at NCR, he brings extensive volunteer experience to his new role with Miami Valley Golf, having served his community in a variety of roles.

Bob and his wife are empty nesters, with three children and two grandchildren living locally. His strong ties to the Miami Valley and passion for golf make him a welcome addition to the Miami Valley Golf volunteer community.

As many golfers head south now that the holidays are over, warmer regions offer great opportunities to keep playing through the winter. While the weather may feel ideal, winter still presents challenges for golf courses. Warm-season grasses grow slowly or go dormant, meaning turf recovers more slowly from traffic, and golfers may notice thinner lies, less green color, or firmer playing surfaces.

Frost delays, cart restrictions, overseeding decisions, and other protective measures are common during this busy season. These practices help courses withstand heavy play and remain healthy into spring. A little patience and respect for course policies go a long way in helping maintain quality winter golf conditions.

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Applications are currently being accepted through January 31 for the 2026-2027 Academic year.

To Apply

Miami Valley Golf is now accepting nominations for the next class of the Dayton Golf Hall of Fame, scheduled for induction in late 2026. Established in 1978, the Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the game in the Dayton area, whether through exceptional playing careers or through significant service to the game. To date, sixty-nine men and women have been inducted into this distinguished group

Nominees must have an association with the Dayton golf community and demonstrate exceptional character, integrity, and impact at the local, state, or national level.

Nominations may be submitted by anyone using the online nomination form. Inductees and their families will be recognized at a ceremony toward the end of the 2026 season.

Nomination Resources:

• Nomination Submission

• Hall of Fame Members

Miami Valley Golf’s 2026 event registration opened Monday, and the Spring Better Ball filled within 16 hours. With strong early demand across the schedule, golfers are encouraged to register early.

4/27 - Spring BB – NCR South (Wait list Only)

5/4 - Masters #1-Dayton

5/11 - Shamble - Troy

6/15 - Masters - Miami Valley

6/22 -6/25 - Metropolitan - Beavercreek

6/29 - Twin BB - Piqua

8/10 - Masters - Walnut Grove

8/17 - Classic - Miami Valley

8/31 – 09/01 – Sr & Mid-Am - Dayton

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Learn more at francismfg.com francismfg.com or call 937-526-4551.

Interested in becoming a Miami Valley Golf partner? Contact steve@mvgolf.org—because golf connects decision makers.