Finding family time in the fairway
The typical family dinner hour - if there is such a thing - often lasts less than 10 minutes.
Phone conversations with the kids are as brief as one-syllable answers can be - the verbal equivalent of texting.
And anything that involves patience, well, forget it. Nobody has time for that.
At least that's the perception in today's world of short attention spans and instant gratification. Thankfully, there is a flip side, and a one-syllable word at that.
Golf.
It's no longer just the "gentleman's game." Golf is a recreational outlet for all ages, a game that combines skill and competitiveness with fun and relaxation, all in a spectacular outdoor setting.
It's a great way to bring the family together, too.
That's the whole idea behind the Fox Valley Park District's "Family Golf Nights," which begin June 8 at Orchard Valley and will be held most every Monday evening through August.
"We're promoting family togetherness," said Orchard Valley head professional Tom Tierney. "This is a great opportunity for family members to enjoy some good times together this summer."
The price is nice, too. A family of four can golf for a mere $40. No, that's not a typo. Or, if Mom and Dad want to get a baby sitter for the night, they can play for $30, while a family of three pays just $35.
Carts are available at reduced rates, but for those of us who grew up walking golf courses, we can vouch that golf is a different game when striding to your next shot, rather than riding.
While kids today are definitely infatuated with fast-action video games and all their associated gadgets, golf continues to rank high on their list of favorites. There's a certain, timeless appeal that seems to attract them to the game.
"Definitely; we're seeing more and more young people get involved," said Tierney.
Family Golf Night is just one way Orchard Valley is rolling out the welcome mat for young golfers. Later this summer, the course will be converted into a "PGA Family Golf Course" on Sunday nights. Sponsored by the PGA of America, the program is targeted toward young children and tots, who will be able to play a shortened version of the course for free.
So what's the catch? None, really, other than that Mom and/or Dad will be required to play from the same tees as young ones. For the tots, that will equate to a 1,100-yard course and for those at the next level, the course will measure about 1,900 yards.
As much as the kids will enjoy their introduction to golf, they'll like the free fountain drink just as much afterward.
And if they keep practicing, it won't be long before they're celebrating long drives and birdie putts while talking up their exploits on the 19th hole.
• Jeff Long is the public relations manager for the Fox Valley Park District. Contact him at jlong@fvpd.net