FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 17, 2007

CONTACT: Sebastian D’Elia, 908-527-4419
Tom Plante, 908-527-4746

Union County Announces Winter Closing
of Ash Brook Golf Course in Scotch Plains

Golfers are known to take to the fairways whenever they can. Rain, heat and even snow do not deter the most dedicated “duffers.” However, the change in season does bring schedule adjustments to the three public golf courses operated by
Union County.

“Each year we give one of our golf courses a chance to rest,” said Freeholder Chairwoman Bette Jane Kowalski. “This year, the Ash Brook Golf Course in Scotch Plains takes its turn. The closure of the Ash Brook course will begin Dec. 23, and continue until March 1, 2008, weather permitting.”

Eighteen regulation holes will continue to be available throughout the winter at the Oak Ridge Golf Course in Clark and at the Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth, weather permitting. The determination of playability will be made by the Supervising Greenskeeper at each course. Winter hours of operation at both courses
(through March 1) will be 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Golfers are reminded that all three of the County’s golf clubhouses are open for identification card purchases and renewals. Beginning January 1, 2008, golfers should renew their ID cards at one of the courses. Early renewal will help avoid delays in the spring when everyone wants to take to the links.

All golf ID cards purchased in 2007 will be de-activated by the computerized photo ID system on Dec. 31. Golfers should keep these cards and bring them when renewing for 2008.

When purchasing a new card or renewing a 2007 card, golfers must show proof of Union County residency through two forms of identification: a driver’s license and either a current annual lease, tax, utility or credit card bill, or a bank statement.
Non-residents who own property in Union County may also purchase ID cards upon providing a current tax bill showing the address, lot and block number of the property. All golf ID card renewals or purchases must be done in-person.

“Even though the winter months restrict golf activities, I am pleased to announce that if enough snow falls, access to the Ash Brook and Oak Ridge golf courses will be allowed for the purpose of cross-country skiing. The Watchung Reservation also will be available for this sport,” said Freeholder Kowalski. “Please note that we do not allow cross-country skiing at the Galloping Hill Golf Course because the hills there can be dangerous when on sleds or skis.”

For further information about the winter schedules for Union County’s golf courses, cross-country skiing, or identification card purchase, please contact the Department of Parks and Community Renewal at 908-527-4900 or visit the Union County website: www.ucnj.org.

The Ash Brook, Galloping Hill, and Oak Ridge golf courses are services of the
Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders.