It’s time again for the annual Getaway Gang Outing.To date we have had golf outings in Nevada and California. I figured it was time to broaden our horizons and travel to a new state. So how about venturing out to sunny New Mexico, known as The Land of Enchantment? We will be traveling to the Santa Fe area. To be a little more precise, we are going to celebrate our 8th annual golf outing just north of Sante Fe in the Pojoaque Pueblo region. Just a short 12 minute drive north of the Santa Fe Airport is this exceptional golfing area. Within a small radius of each other are five golfing establishments and an Indian Resort Casino as well. It was tough choosing only two, but as in the past, I believe you will find the two selected will be both scenic and challenging.

Golf Date: Sunday – April 17, 2016 Monday – April 18, 2016Place: Black Mesa Golf Club Towa Golf Club First Tee Time: 10:00 AM 10:00 AM

Black Mesa and Towa are recently built golf clubs which have opened in a string of compelling New Mexico public-access courses which have been bringing praise to this friendly, culturally-rich and affordable golf destination. The beauty of the "Land of Enchantment" is just as awesome as desert layouts in Arizona and with a much lower price tag. In fact, for those of you who joined us for the Mesquite, NV trip a few years back, the Black Mesa Golf Course has been compared in golfing articles to Wolf Creek, and absolutely awesome course we played during that outing.

A sign at Black Mesa Golf Club sums up this 7,307-yard course on the Santa Clara Pueblo, 20 miles north of Santa Fe: big course, big medicine -- it will kick your butt. Completed in April, 2003, Baxter Spann's design skirts desert brush and is framed by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the plateau called Black Mesa. Players must shape shots suited to the land's contours. At the 216-yard 15th, a small hill fronting the green kicks clever approaches to front hole locations otherwise impossible to find. The 16th hole, 536 yards uphill, bears the taunting name "Stairway to Seven." But the real struggle here is on the greens. By the time you find an old ranch windmill creaking in the breeze behind the 18th green, you may suspect the course is having a laugh at your expense. Some visitors complain about the blind shots at Black Mesa, but that's part of the experience. Just ask anyone who has played Ireland's Royal County Down. If this track were in Ireland, those same quirks would be considered charms.

Situated in beautiful Northern New Mexico and complimented by splendid southwestern terrain and stunning desert sunsets, the Towa Golf Resort caters to those who are looking for an outstanding golf experience. Designed by Hale Irwin and William Phillips, the course utilizes the natural topography and unique natural rock and piñon trees indigenous to the area. Whether you are an experienced golfer or a high handicapper looking to sharpen your skills, the Towa Golf Resort offers golfing excitement for everyone. Located in the Pojoaque Valley, a short drive north of Santa Fe, Towa Golf Resort is an 18-hole championship course. Open for play September 2001, Towa is a mountain-desert style course, with rolling, open fairways surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the Southwest. The large greens are subtly undulated, and roll quite fast. Hole #4 on the "Boulder" nine has an 8,200 square foot island green – the only island green in New Mexico. This course plays from 4,662 to 7,068-yards and offers 5 sets of tees to challenge all skill levels.

Here is the plan. There has been another shift in the golf days. When we first started on these outings we used to play on Saturday & Sunday. The two most expensive days to play golf. So, to cut down the costs, I shifted our golf outings to play golf on Sunday and Monday. I have now found it to be significantly cheaper to play on Monday and Tuesday. In the case of this trip, each course is $40 less on Monday-Thursday. Lodging is $50 less (if you don’t stay on a Saturday night). So, we are going to try the following: Sunday (4/6/14) most likely will be utilized as a travel day. The first day of golf has been scheduled for the Black Mesa Golf Course, on Sunday (4/17/16), with our second day of golf taking place at the Towa Golf Club on Tuesday (4/18/16). Finally, Wednesday (4/19/16) will probably be the return day for most of you.

This year as in the past, group dinners are planned. I have selected two options, The first dinner social will be at Gabriel's Restaurant on Monday evening and the second at Chama’s Steakhouse in Santa Fe on Monday evening

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 $180.00As was the case last year, if you have a PayPal account, you can send funds directly to my account. See the “Links” page (bottom right corner) on the Getaway Gang Websitehttp://getawaygang.yolasite.com/links.php

If you are paying via check, please mail them to: Lad Meairs

1254 Mokelumne CourtAntioch, CA 94531

Towa Golf Course47 Towa Golf Road

Santa Fe, NM 87506Phone: (505) 455-9000

Black Mesa Golf Club115 State Road 399La Mesilla, NM  87532-3169Phone: (505) 747-8946

Website:

Place: Santa Clara Canyons Date: Sunday – April 17, 2016

Course: Black Mesa Golf ClubTee Time: 10:00 AM (first group)

Location: La Mesilla, NM Price $100.00

At every turn on the Black Mesa golf course, a 7,307-yard course just north of Santa Fe, mental strategy is paramount. After several months of play in the first year, the course record was still 71, just 1-under par. That's a testament to the fact that there are no opportunities to let your mind wander - just being in the fairway isn't enough. While Black Mesa Golf Club is walk able, GPS carts will help with the strategic moves you will need on your first round. But more than likely you will be eye-balling the scenery. Black Mesa, held sacred by the tribe, is framed perfectly down the 10th fairway. Sandstone spires rise from the green fairways, deep bunkers tantalize you, native arroyos funnel your ball to their depths, and the nature of the land is the layout's best feature. It's a vast landscape with views of the Jemez and Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the distance. The elevation is 5,400 feet with changes of 125 feet and 12 of the holes play slightly downhill. "I have been designing courses for more than 20 years," said Baxter Spann. "More than any other project, I eagerly anticipated every trip I made to this course, always knowing I would find something new to experience." Spann says one recurring theme is the increase in difficulty of the angle of approach to the fairway as you progress from the forward to the back tees. "The second hole, a 404-yard par-4, illustrates this concept," Spann said. "The tee shot from the back tees points to a landing area on a diagonal line, while the forward tees approach it more straight on. No. 16 is an uphill par-5 of 536 yards with an ominous tag - Stairway to Seven. The back tee is positioned on a high point with a substantial carry over an arroyo to the uphill fairway. From here hang on, keep it in the narrow neck of the fairway and deal with the deep bunker on the left. "The green itself is probably the most severely contoured of any on the course,” Spann said. Find yourself in the wrong spot and it's an easy three-putt. "Our design concept was to create as wide a variety of holes as possible, with each having its own memorable features," Spann said. One thing is certain when you play Black Mesa. You won't be bored. Your senses will perk up admiring the beauty and the Wild West ruggedness. But if you want to avoid a butt-kicking you must pay attention to golf first and scenery second

http://www.blackmesagolfclub.com/

Place: Buffalo Thunder Resort Date: Monday – April 18, 2016

Course: Towa Golf Course Tee Time: 10:00 AM (first group)Location: Santa Fe, NM Price $80.00

Website:

Located on the Pueblo of Pojoaque only 12 miles north of the Santa Fe plaza, Towa Golf Resort offers quality golf at an affordable price. PGA Tour Champion Hale Irwin and architect Bill Phillips of Tempe, AZ co-designed Towa. They utilized the natural topography and unique natural rock and indigenous piñon trees to create a magnificent, high desert golf course surrounded by the majestic Sangre de Cristo and Jemez mountains. Towa offers twenty-seven spectacular holes of golf. The Boulder nine, so named because of the amazing rock formations that frame it, also features the only island green in New Mexico (hole #4, 186 yard par 3). The first hole of the Pinon nine is a breathtaking, 631 yard, par 5. At 3,332 yards, the Butterfly nine is the shortest of the three nines, but offers challenges for beginner and experienced players alike.Towa offers professional instruction, rental golf clubs, a beautiful clubhouse and restaurant and fully stocked golf shop. Located 12 scenic miles north of Santa Fe on Highway 84/285, Towa already has become one of the top public golf courses in the Southwest. Play Towa and experience golf’s newest legend! Designed by Hale Irwin and William Phillips, the course utilizes the natural topography and unique natural rock and piñon trees indigenous to the area. Whether you are an experienced golfer or a high handicapper looking to sharpen your skills, the Towa Golf Resort offers golfing excitement for everyone. The best hole at Towa (but not by much!), and one of the most spectacular holes in all of New Mexico, is the 631-yard first hole on the Piñon Nine. Your journey starts from an elevated teeing ground that feels like the perch of an eagle’s nest. The hole bends slightly to the right — miss the fairway by too much and you’ll provide your personal donation to the Towa golf ball supply. The marriage of striking scenery and architectural details are in full bloom here. Or maybe a players most memorable shot might come on the Boulder nine's par 3 fourth hole. This 186-yard par 3 requires a tee shot to New Mexico's only island green. The 7,143-yard par 72 course showcases championship golf with the serenity of the desert and breathtaking views. Elevated tee boxes provide panoramic views of pinon and juniper dotted landscape, boulder canyons, and the Sangre De Cristo mountain range.

http://www.buffalothunderresort.com/santa-fe-golf/index.cfm

Hilton Santa Fe Golf Resort and Spa at Buffalo ThunderBuffalo Thunder Resort and Casino’s unique Santa Fe accommodations were designed with your comfort and luxury top-of-mind. Splendidly accented with Native art and features, this hotel offers more than just excellent amenities—we offer an experience. The guest rooms and suites at Buffalo Thunder Resort pamper guests with luxury, comfort and style. Vibrant hues, carved headboards and a myriad of innovative accents in Native American Pueblo style are all inspired by the Pueblo of Pojoaque's Governor George Rivera, a renowned artist in his own right. Each room features the lavish comforts of the Hilton Serenity Collection - pillow top mattresses, fluffy down pillows, high thread count linens and thick, cozy duvets. A deluxe MP3 clock radio provides a gentle awakening from a restful night's sleep. Other standard room amenities include signature resort bath and shower accessories, plush, oversized bath towels, in-room safe, multiple phones, oversized work spaces, a 37" flat screen TV with on-demand movies and games, a technology panel with high-speed Internet access, the Hilton Signature Cuisinart coffee maker and Lavazza coffee. Best of all, each room features a magnificent view of the surrounding Santa Fe Mountainside. Enjoy all the perks of Santa Fe Casinos & Gaming at Buffalo Thunder! There is a constant sound of winning echoing throughout 61,000 square feet of Vegas-style action, in all the majesty of the desert Southwest! Are you ready for this Santa Fe casino? There are: 1,200 slot machines, 18 gaming tables, a plush and friendly poker room, and weekly slot and table tournaments. From high-stakes poker to pressure-free slots, there’s a game for everyone! Tantalize your senses with the flavors of the Southwest—whether you’re looking for an intimate, luxurious experience or just want to grab a sandwich on the fly, it’s at Buffalo Thunder. Red Sage Fine Dining Restaurant: Explosive, innovative Southwest flavors in an intimate, fine-dining atmosphere. Acclaimed for its inspired Native, European and Latin cuisines, Red Sage is your destination for your next romantic night out, business dinner and drinks or group event. Fare rotates seasonally, and our extensive wine selection will wow the most distinguishing tastesTurquoise Trail Bar & Grille: Classic America meets the storied Southwest in a flavor explosion you won’t soon forget. An homage to iconic Route 66 restaurantsBlue Tower Lounge: The blue-hued Blue Tower Lounge offers a fabulous entertainment venue with a distinctive architectural flourish. Enjoy the huge vaulted ceiling and vast selection of beer, wine and cocktails. The Painted Parrot Buffett: Feast your eyes on bountiful buffet overflowing with international flair and fare! Asian, Mexican, Italian, American and more—enjoy a world tour of flavors that’s leave you going back for more. Pueblo Deli: For a quick meal or a tasty bite, it’s the Pueblo Deli! Enjoy deli-style sandwiches, salads, desserts and more. Open late on weekends for your conveniencePool Grille: Unwind in style at the Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino’s sun-kissed Pool Grille, which is situated at the resort’s sprawling outdoor pool. Enjoy light-bites and snacks, or just lie back with a refreshing cocktail. Pool Grille offers a snack menu with sandwiches, salads, ice cream, and a full-bar, just steps from the elegant pool area.Starbucks: Get your daily caffeine fix, complemented by pastries, snacks, and other grab ‘n go goodies at the Buffalo Thunder Resort & casino’s on-site Starbucks, which is located on the hotel’s main level near the Conference Center.

20 Buffalo Thunder TrailSanta Fe, New Mexico 87506

1-505-455-5555

Website:Website:

Room RatesSunday Night (4/14/13) - $120Monday Night (4/15/13) - $120Tuesday Night (4/16/13 - $120

http://www.buffalothunderresort.com/index.cfm

Hotels Rating Rate (Avg per night)

Santa Fe AreaHacienda & Spa at Hotel Santa Fe **** $190Inn & Spa at Loretta **** $160Eldorado Hotel & Spa **** $140Las Palomas **** $120Hotel Santa Fe & Spa **** $100Residence Inn by Marriott Santa Fe *** $120Old Santa Fe Inn *** $115Hotel Plaza Real *** $110Courtyard by Marriott Santa Fe *** $100Villas de Santa Fe *** $ 90Lodge at Santa Fe *** $ 90Hyatt Place Santa Fe *** $ 80Best Western Inn (Plus) of Santa Fe *** $ 80The Santa Fe Suites *** $ 60La Quinta Inn Santa Fe *** $ 55

Here is a sampling of the Hotels in the Sante Fe area (during the dates of April 6, 2014 – April 8, 2014). This data was collected off the Travelocity site. Rate is an average for the three nights (Sunday – Tuesday)

Inn at Eagle Mountain – Fountain Hills Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino20 Buffalo Thunder Trail

Santa Fe, New Mexico 875061-505-455-5555

SundaySunday Evening – Dinner Social –Evening – Dinner Social – April 17, 2016April 17, 2016

Monday Evening – Dinner Social - April 18, 2016Monday Evening – Dinner Social - April 18, 2016

http://www.restauranteur.com/gabriels/menu.htm

Gabriel's Restaurant Food of the Southwest and Old Mexico

Hwy 285/84 Santa Fe, NM 87501

Phone: (505) 455-7000

Full Bar and Wine List: Gabriel's Margaritas are made with Gold Tequila! Patio Dining: Large picturesque patio with fountains and beautiful views

Gabriel's, serving food of the Southwest and Old Mexico, is considered one of the best Mexican and Southwestern restaurants in New Mexico. The personal attention to service and food is what makes Gabriel's special. Little touches add so much to your dining experience, such as fresh guacamole made at your table, margaritas made with freshly squeezed limes and gold tequila, and handmade corn tortillas. Our spacious patio with its fountains, colorful flowers and spectacular view is a diner's delight on one of our many, warm and sunny Santa Fe days. “Fabulous tableside guacamole. That's all it takes to lure most people to Gabriel's restaurant ... there is something alluring about the prospect of meaty ripe avocados and fresh lime being fused with other ingredients before your eyes that keeps locals and tourists coming back for more”

http://www.riochamasteakhouse.com/

Rio Chama Steakhouse414 Old Santa Fe TrailSanta Fe, NM 87501

Phone: (505) 955-0765

Located just off the Santa Fe Plaza and near the state capitol, Rio Chama serves the finest prime and choice dry aged steaks, chops and seafood. Beyond the unassuming entrance on Old Santa Fe Trail, you will find a mix of intimate dining rooms with kiva fireplaces, a lively bar scene, peaceful courtyard dining and a relaxing patio bar. Rio Chama combines great food, premium wine and spirits, warm ambiance and a friendly, professional staff with dining options for all occasions. Rio Chama appeals to both locals and visitors alike. Rio Chama is located in the oldest neighborhood in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the Barrio de Analco, which literally means “neighborhood on the other side of the river.” In 2001, Rio Chama opened its doors to the public and has been under the leadership of Executive Chef Russell Thornton.

http://www.riochamasteakhouse.com/dinner

Rio Chama

SightseeingOnce you arrive in Santa Fe, the highest capital city in the United States, it's obvious that you're not in Kansas anymore. Courtesy of its high altitude, the City Different enjoys 320 days of sunshine, all four seasons, brilliant blue skies and some of the purest air in the world. Santa Fe sits 7,000 feet above sea level in the southernmost Rocky Mountains and has 12,000 foot mountain vistas. It's tucked into a valley of the Rio Grande, surrounded by 1.5 million acres of unspoiled national forest filled with juniper, pine and aspen. To admire Santa Fe's natural beauty, don't miss their magnificent sunsets and star gazing. Explore more than 30 miles of scenic hiking trails all year round. The spring and summer brings biking, horseback riding and rafting as well as competitive and fun runs.

The Plaza - The Heart of Santa FeAs the heart of the city and the place where Santa Fe was founded, the Plaza is the city's most historic area. Surrounded by museums, historic buildings, restaurants, hotels, galleries, and endless shopping the Plaza is the place to start understanding Santa Fe. The Santa Fe Plaza is a National Historic Landmark and has always been a gathering place in downtown Santa Fe. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. When you visit the Plaza you will notice original historic buildings all around the perimeter. These buildings mirror the cultures of Santa Fe with adobe, territorial and other architecture. The Palace of the Governors is the oldest public building in the U.S. and houses a history museum. You'll also be able to visit the New Mexico Museum of Art, Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, and the Loretto Chapel.

Get Oriented with a Walking TourA great way to get the lay of the land in Santa Fe is to take a walking tour. There are several companies. One that guides walks on a regular basis and meets in central Santa Fe is Historic Walks of Santa Fe.

Museum HillIn a town with 16 museums, Museum Hill is a collection of 4 of its most interesting: Museum of International Folk Art, Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, and the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian. With a wonderful plaza, expansive views, footpaths connecting each museum, and a convenient cafe, Museum Hill is a day trip right in town.

Climb to the Cross of the MartyrsThe Cross of the Martyrs, located on a small hill on the 600 block of Paseo de Peralta honors the 21 Franciscan monks that were slain during the Pueblo Revolt. From the hilltop, you will have a beautiful view of Santa Fe. It's a great way to get oriented to the city. Find the stairs off Paseo de Peralta, Between Hillside Ave and Otero Street.

Canyon RoadSanta Fe has over 250 galleries and has been rated the second largest art market in the country - only after New York City! Canyon Road is a historic pathway into the mountains and an old neighborhood that has become the city's center for art with the highest concentration of galleries. The Dale Ball South Trail is a multi-use trail and is available for mountain bikes as well. More on Santa Fe Trails

Santa Fe RailyardThe area around the Railyard along Guadalupe Street offers shopping, dining, and hotels. The 50 acre Railyard, is slowly taking shape into a multi-use property that will eventually be home to a large park, plaza, trail system, movie complex, live/work lofts and green space. It already is home to SITE Santa Fe, a contemporary art museum with rotating exhibits, shops, galleries, restaurants, and the Santa Fe Farmer's Market. It is a great place to walk around. More on the Railyard