Tip #1:  Cleanse When you are active outdoors, sweat, which eliminates toxins from the body, and environmental pollution can sit on the surface of the skin.  Without effective cleansing, these toxins are absorbed into the skin during the natural process of cellular turnover creating problems such as acne, clogged pores and inhibit your skin’s overall health and immunity.  It is essential to provide your skin with a deep cleanse that also provides the nutrients and ingredients it needs for optimal performance.

Tip # 2:  Protect Being outdoors, you are exposed to the full spectrum of harmful rays from the sun and other free radicals.  The most common sunscreens contain chemical sun filters that stop UV damage by absorbing UV rays. Most of these chemicals can absorb into the skin increasing the chance of irritation. Since chemical filters only partially protect your skin from the full UV spectrum, Dr. Bucko recommends using a broad-spectrum, physical block containing zinc oxide which is both therapeutic and contains the physical protective barrier against the FULL range of UVA and UVB rays.

Tip #3:  Prevent Your skin is at risk of pre-mature aging as you spend more time than most out in the elements. Even broad-spectrum sunscreens only block about half of the damaging free radicals created by UV rays. Using topical antioxidant serums, along with your sunscreen, will strengthen your skin’s natural defense system to decrease UV-induced free radical formation. By helping protect the epidermal and dermal layers from the inside, antioxidants provide the most complete photo-aging protection.

Tip #4:  Correct Several years of sun exposure causes increased pigmentation and vascular changes such as broken blood vessels.  Dr. Bucko recommends using a combination of products and treatments to correct pigmentation at the cellular level, giving your skin a more even tone. Products containing hydroquinone and treatments such as peels and photo-rejuvenation can help to lighten unwanted age-spots caused by the sun.

Tip #5:  Finishing Touch You still want to look your best, even when being active.  Dr. Bucko recommends using mineral make-up to enhance your healthy glow.  Most other make-up contains toxic chemicals that will sit on the skin, and when combined with sweat, cause acne breakouts and other skin irritations. Look for a Mineral Make-up that is sweat-proof and contains an SPF to provide the perfect protective barrier while enhancing the way you look!

To hear more about Dr. Bucko’s recommendations for skincare, join us at our Signature Golf Event where he will be the guest speaker on Wednesday, May 8^th at the Country Club of Rancho Bernardo. Visit www: drbucko.com for more information

Know thyself. The cardinal rule of stylish women everywhere is to know what looks good on your body type. You need to have a sense of the general shape of your figure so that you can choose clothing that balances or enhances your shape.

Think about your natural shape. You may be broader in the shoulders or hips, fairly equal between the two with a waist, or fairly boxy with no waist.  Which best describes your figure?  (For a visual of what I am talking about, click here.)

Clothing can help balance the natural shapes described above.  Here are a few tips. If you are broadest in the shoulders, try wearing a dark-colored top to minimize that area and wear brighter colors or prints on the bottom. This will give you a more balanced look. If you are wider in the hips, do the opposite – wear darker colors on bottom. For the other two shapes mentioned above, you should maintain the sense of balance between the shoulders and hips. Choose similar colors or patterns – and draw attention to your waist. While every woman’s body is different, these are guidelines for a basic shopping strategy.

One of the things I love about Sport Haley is the variety of colors and patterns found in their collections for different figures. If you like their new paisley print, you can get it in a top, a skirt or a dress – whichever piece or combination of pieces best balance your figure.

http://www.womenoncourse.com/catalog/sport-haley-apparel-cool-collection-c-95_98.html

Know your yardages. Keeping in mind the basic shape of your body, be aware of where your legs and arms are thinnest.  This is where a garment should end, usually right above the joint (ankle, knee, or elbow). Ending a garment here draws the eye to the skinniest part of you.

Some brands design shorts and skorts for women who are a lot younger and trimmer than I am! In those cases, the garments are 14-16” inches long – which is way too short for my taste or my figure. You can always hem a longer skirt to the right length but you can’t always lengthen a skirt, so choose wisely.

A great option is the Sport Haley Classic Skirt. It’s 20” long and comes in neutrals that you can make work – no matter your shape.

http://www.womenoncourse.com/catalog/solid-skirt-p-785.html

The second option, and one of my favorites, is the Play All Day Dress by Women on Course.  The A-line silhouette and slightly longer length make it my “go-to” golf outfit.

http://www.womenoncourse.com/catalog/play-golf-dress-p-363.html

Try it on. Last but not least, and maybe the most important rule, is to try on your garments before you play in them. Make sure they fit well. They should:

• Not be too tight. Apparel should skim your figure, not cling to it.
• Not be so short. You should avoid showing your belly, lingerie, or backside when you swing or bend over.
• Make you feel beautiful, confident and yourself!

Elizabeth Noblitt, fashion stylist and founder of Shi Shi Putter. For 1:1 help to you look and feel your best on the golf course (and on the street), email  elizabeth@shishiputter.com

Lifestyle Business. Carolyn and her brothers not only grew the wine business over the years, but also launched lifestyle businesses, including a golf course, restaurant and summer concert series, that are directly related to the enjoyment of wine. “We wanted people to be able to come to the vineyard, enjoy food and wine, take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy music – all at the same location,” said Carolyn. “What could be better than great performers in a vineyard setting?!”

Designing a Golf Course. Wanting to create a premier destination golf course in Northern California, the Wente’s approached Greg Norman who had not designed a golf course in the US. “After many discussions, we were able to sign Greg to design the golf course at Wente Vineyards,” added Carolyn. Norman started the design in 1995 and the course opened in 1998. (Though this was initially Norman’s first course in the US, TPC Sugarloaf golf course in Atlanta was Greg Norman’s first golf course to open in the US.) The Course at Wente Vineyards has been voted Best of the East Bay multiple times. It has become known among golfers as one of the most beautiful and challenging in Northern California. In 2010, The Course was also designated a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.

Growing up at Wente Vineyards. Carolyn started in the business as a child, growing up around the vineyards with her parents and brothers. After graduating from Stanford University, she went to work for a bank as a financial analyst. She had been there for a few years and found herself on the management track. Realizing that the she was not going to be in the bank business permanently, but rather, helping her brothers run the winery, Carolyn decided that this was the time to go back to the winery. So in 1981 Carolyn came back to Wente Vineyards to run the sales and marketing areas of the business.

The Business Side of Wente. Carolyn’s brother Eric is Chairman of the Board and responsible for Wente Vineyards’ dynamic expansion into worldwide export markets, beginning in the early 1980s. Today, Wente Vineyards exports to more than 70 countries worldwide and is considered a leader in the export of ultra-premium wines.  Her brother Phil, , having taken a strong interest in the agricultural and farming side of the business from his grandfather, has headed the operation, expansion and redevelopment of the Wente Family Estate vineyards and its land development programs for more than 20 years. Carolyn’s role as CEO seems a natural fit. As the youngest of her siblings, Carolyn grew up in the business, often traveling with her parents on business trips, meeting vendors and talking to restaurateurs about Wente wines. “My experience in the banking industry also helped,” added Carolyn. “There, I was often involved with other businesses which allowed me to learn a great deal of information about business planning and development.”

The Vision. Carolyn and her brothers enjoy a unique camaraderie as the management team.  Having grown up together they have the same values, the same vision and a closeness that allows them to work effectively together. Now, it’s especially satisfying for the fourth generation to see the fifth generation passionate and working alongside them. Today, Carolyn’s nephew Karl is a Fifth Generation winemaker and Senior Vice President responsible for all winemaking at Wente Family Estates. His sister Christine is on the Board of Directors and manages the Wente Foundation for Arts Education.

Carolyn and Golf. Golfing in the Wente family dates back to Carolyn’s grandfather on her mother’s side. He was an avid golfer – in fact, a scratch golfer. He had 3 daughters – all of whom learned golf at very early ages. Carolyn’s mother insisted that her three children learn the sport. Philip is probably the most avid golfer, but both Eric and Carolyn play often. “I started golfing as a kid,” said Carolyn. “I played while growing up and eventually took up tennis also. Today, my son, now 18, is captain of his varsity golf team and hopes to play in college. He and I will often go out and play a few holes late in the afternoon. The course at Wente is similar to a links course, with holes 1 through 7 winding back to the clubhouse.  My son and I will often play 5, 6, or 7 holes late in the afternoon. It’s nice to have that special one-on-one time with him.”

The Business of Golf. “As with any business, said Carolyn, “the wine industry works on relationships. I find that playing golf helps people get to know each other better – and that makes for better business partners.” Carolyn also plays in the tournaments that are an integral part of the business. When asked who her favorite playing partner was, Carolyn said she has several women friends who nudge her out of the office and onto the golf course every once in a while. “And,” she added, “I have a dear friend who puts up with my game and allows me to relax while we enjoy our day!”  Women on Course toasts that option!

Join us at a Signature Event near you to taste the Official Wine of Women on Course – Wente Vineyards!

Golf is one of the more difficult sports to master. It’s a sideways sport. Think about it –tennis, bowling, softball use similar swing motions, but at least you get to face your target head on.  Many people successfully master these sports without ever taking a lesson.  When it comes to golf, it’s wise to invest in good instruction right from the start to master the golf swing.  To get the most out of your investment take these essential steps.

Do you have the time? Golf instructors can teach you the basics, but it will take some practice time between sessions to build and master the skills. Plan to dedicate at least 60 minutes a week to practice what you’ve learned. Sometimes just a club, tee and whiffle ball in the backyard is all you need to practice some drills.

What are you willing to spend? The golf industry had made a lot of noise to build programs and bring more women into the game. There is more emphasis today on programs for new and learning players. The more you are willing to spend, the more individualized instruction you will receive.

Private Lesson: ($75 to $200) Rates  vary based on length of the lesson, use of training facilities, and the teaching professional’s reputation.

Semi Private Lesson: ($40 to $100) Sharing the cost with another person can be more fun and less intimidating.

Group Clinic: ($10 to $50) Clinics are typically 4 to 8 people with rates based on length of clinic and number of people.  Look for free introductory clinics offered for new golfers.

Golf Schools: ($500 and up) Golf schools can range from one day to a full week and requires a greater degree of stamina. Prices will depending on length of school and extras such as meals and on course playing lessons

Do some research. Once you have decided on a lesson format, make a list of golf professionals that teach at times and places that are convenient and within your price range.  For suggestions, visit the Women on Course local golf directory, ask other women and nearby golf courses and check the listings on the PGA and LPGA websites. Visit an individual’s website and see if their teaching philosophy matches up with your learning style. You should get a pretty good feel if the instructor enjoys teaching beginners and women from the content on the website.

Questions to ask before you commit. You can probably zero in on a choice by asking a few simple questions.  Ask to schedule a short 10 minute call with the instruction to learn the following.

-       Ability to relate to your individual needs

-       Teaching philosophy – simple vs. analytical? Do they teach one method or vary depending on the student?

-       Did they ask about physical limitations? Do they address golf fitness?

-       Teaching style – does it match your learning style: visual, auditory, feel?

-       Do they use swing aids and video analysis?

-       Do they give playing lessons or are lessons all on the practice range?

-       Are golf clubs included if you don’t have a set?

Make the Choice. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your lesson to warmed up and pay your fee. Be open to what the instructor is telling you even if it feels awkward. A swing change can take up to three weeks to incorporate so practice, practice, practice. Most importantly, be patient with yourself.

Did you make a good choice? Ask yourself the following

-       Did they start with an interview? Did you feel like they really understood you and your goals? Were they a good listener?

-       Did they teach to your goals? Was the instruction clear? Did they use terms you understand? Did they talk to you at your level? Were they patient? Was information-overload avoided?

-       Did they use a variety of teaching methods: verbal, visual, demonstration, and kinesthetic movement?

-       Were you encouraged or did you experience ‘post-lesson depression’ and feel like you couldn’t do anything right?

-       Do they cover every aspect of the game from warm-up, putting, short-game, and full-swing? Did they teach just the swing or including course management, mental strategies, rules, etiquette?

-       Did he/she give you specific drills to practice? Did you see improvement in a relatively short period of time?

-       How was the follow-up? Did they email you the video of your swing? Were they available for questions?

-       Did they set mutual goals with you? How will they track your progress? Did they remember what you were working on?

-       Were they passionate about the game?

If the majority of the answers were ‘yes’ then you found the right one! So stick with him or her, practice in between your sessions and you’ll be on your way to lower scores!

Take a lesson with our favorite  Women on Course instructor Debbie Keller  - WOC members have access to over 3 hours of video lessons. http://www.womenoncourse.com/video_lesson_preview.php

The winery.

Located near San Francisco in the historic Livermore Valley, Wente Vineyards is the country’s oldest, continuously operated family-owned winery. Today, the winery maintains its leadership role in California winegrowing under ownership and management by the Fourth and Fifth Generations of the Wente family. Blending traditional and innovative winemaking practices, the winery draws from approximately 3,000 acres of sustainably farmed Estate vineyards to create an outstanding portfolio of fine wines. Wente Vineyards is recognized as one of California’s premier wine country destinations, featuring wine tasting, fine dining and championship golf – in one destination!

The golf course. More than a decade ago, Wente Vineyards and golfing great Greg Norman joined forces to create The Course at Wente Vineyards, with a vision to create Northern California’s premier destination championship golf course. The Course, voted Best of the East Bay by Diablo Magazine readers multiple times – and most recently in July of 2012 – has become well known among golfers as one of the most beautiful and challenging in Northern California. Located 45 minutes east of San Francisco, The Course’s 18 championship holes play through the vineyards, rolling hills, and natural grasslands of the scenic Livermore Valley at Wente Vineyards. Designed for male and female players of all levels, The Course at Wente Vineyards played host to the Wine Country Championship, the 5th stop on the PGA’s Nationwide Tour for the past three years.

Let’s face it we all want more distance but the way you are trying to get it might be holding you back. It’s important to know that distance has little to do with power or how strong you are and is directly related to the speed of the club “through” impact.   Please note the quotation mark on the word through.  Most golfers swing to or at the ball instead of swinging through the ball to a complete finish.  When you focus all of your energy at the ball, the momentum of the club is actually slowing down causing you to decrease your swing speed and lose distance. Here is a quick and easy drill that will teach you to generate more speed and help you get a few extra yards with all of your clubs.

First take a practice swing and monitor where the club gets to at both the completion of your backswing and your finish.  The key to this drill is to have full finish. Once you have figured out these two positions, create practice swing in which you pause at the top of your backswing and then swing through to your finish position and hold it for a few seconds. This drill allows you to feel how the speed build up and increases through the ball to your finish and not to the ball.

Join our monthly clinics with Curtis!  Visit the WOC events page for dates.

Meet Shelley and you understand why WOC in Houston is as hot as the weather.  With people like Shelley leading the way, this city might just become the #1 city for Women on Course! I certainly admire her drive. And I like that she’s very protective of the ladies she brings to Women On Course. She wants them to have a good time – without stress. WOC allows them to succeed at the game of golf without performance anxiety. And that’s just fine with Shelley. No matter the level of golf know-how, Shelley Nadel wants the women of Houston to feel like they belong at these events – even if they just play “at” golf.

As Houston’s WOC calendar starts to heat up, the city begins the new year with over 200 members. Shelley is a perfect example of the type of woman who is attracted to the organization. She had never even picked up a golf club until 5 years ago when she heard about this organization for professional women. It seemed like the perfect place for her so she volunteered to represent her company in the group – even though she’d never played golf! The idea of being outdoors, getting together with other professional women, learning a new skill and being involved in the community just made sense to Shelley.

And as Shelley says, “Golf is a sport that teases you. It lures you into the game because you start to see potential. You hit this magnificent drive that sends the ball in the direction you wanted and farther than you have in a while. . .and you’re hooked! But while the game draws you in, it’s also humbling,” says Shelley. “Golf seems to attract a special kind of woman – someone with drive, education and spirit.”

“That’s why I got involved in WOC – because of the networking opportunity and the women in the organization. Since joining WOC, I’ve made business contacts, recruited other women and became friends with many of the members.” Shelley believes the organization attracts women who are interested in business and who understand the value of networking with other like-minded women.

“My goal for WOC is to connect with other women and help them connect with each other” says Shelley. “I get to be outside in the fresh air meeting other interesting people and introducing other women to the game of golf and to our network of members. The activities often lead to new business development opportunities. And I often find synergies between organizations. We have one networking group in Houston that sponsors a golf tournament every year. The problem is that year after year, the same women attend the tournament – they aren’t attracting new players. WOC Houston is going to partner with this organization, which will offer their members the chance to hone their skills through WOC play days and golf clinics and build excitement for their tournament in the fall.  Plus our members will have the exciting chance to play in a tournament.  It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

Shelley also likes mentoring new WOC members. “It’s very satisfying to bring new members to the organization. It’s nice to introduce them to the game of golf. It’s great to share contacts. And I believe women have a responsibility to show the next generation of women just how powerful we are as friends, business contacts and playing partners!”

The challenge is on! Houston is the 2^nd biggest market for Women On Course, can they make it to #1?

Meet Shelley and more Houston members at the next Signature Event on April 2. http://www.womenoncourse.com/events/Golf-Event-Houston-20130402.php

The Staff. It’s pretty obvious how the course feels towards women golfers from the moment you call for a tee time or drop off your bag.  A courteous welcome, being waited on in turn and no tee time restrictions are good indicators you’ll feel comfortable.

Consider it a bonus if you see women working in the golf shop or teaching on the range. Even better is a course owned or managed by a woman. We’ve found that in these cases, the course is often more aware of your needs and provides overall better customer service.

The Golfers. A course can have everything going for it only to be ruined by the regulars who make it clear women don’t belong on the course. Here are some not so subtle signs. The guys in your foursome zip past your tee box. The group behind you stares you down to hurry you along. A good sign is when you see women on the course. Chances are your male playing partners on this course will be happy to golf with you.

The Clubhouse. There are clues all over the clubhouse if a golf course wants your business, and nothing is more telling then the women’s locker room. First off, they should have a locker room for women! Secondly, it should be clean and stocked with hand soap, towels and toilet paper. You’ve hit paydirt when you see extras, such as big lockers, hair dryers, a sitting area and steam room.

What’s posted? What information is hanging on the club walls and bulletin boards? An active women’s community is an indicator that you will have an enjoyable golf experience. Look for women specific events, lessons and plaques recognizing female tournament winners.

The Pro Shop. Here is another great place to get a pulse on the course’s attitude towards women. Beyond the space dedicated to women’s apparel – and in our opinion, the more, the better – we look to see whether the pro shop stocks women specific accessories such as gloves, shoes and balls. Neglecting these details may seem small, and yet they speak volumes about welcoming women. Another good indication of a course catering to women is the number of rental sets on hand for women players.  One is not enough!  In general, a course pursuing women customers will have several sets of ladies clubs – for both left- and right-handed players.

The Course Itself. The length, design and availability of facilities all say something about the courses’ friendliness to women. Perhaps the most important clue that a club embraces women (and beginners) is thoughtful placement of the forward tee box. The purpose of multiple tee placements is to compensate for different skill levels so the ball lands in the same neighborhood.

How long does the course play from tee to green? As a guideline, a course offering a forward tee box that falls in the 4,600 to 5,300 yard range, and a second set of 5,300 to 5,800 yards is a good sign. Innovative clubs attracting beginners may even have a family tee at the 150 yard (or even closer) marker.

When your tee shot has to go over some kind of obstacle (a ravine, water, or marshland) this is called a forced carry. A beginner friendly course design will not have many – or any – forced carries when playing off the forward tee.

Eighteen holes takes time, so ask about the rest room facilities. Does the course design bring you back to the clubhouse after 9 holes, and if not are there facilities on the course? While men can duck into the woods for relief, there should be options for women. Clean rest rooms stocked with sunscreen, and feminine products are a thoughtful plus.

Other Touches. Notice the menu and snack selections in the clubhouse and on the beverage carts. While hot dogs and burgers are standard fair, what options are available for those watching calories or looking for healthier choices? And while many of us may have a beer during the game, how about offering wine in addition to beer on the beverage cart!

What other sport takes up to 5 hours to play? Courses offering nine hole rates are showing up more frequently. Some course layouts even allow 4 and 6 hole loops. Look for clubs that offer creative packages for shorter play, perhaps combined with clinics and or promoted as women only.  These are clues that a golf course is looking to attract women with busy schedules.

To play a women welcoming course in your area, visit the Women on Course website and search our calendar of events. http://www.womenoncourse.com/calendar.php

Recipe

Easy Pork Chops with Wine & Apples

2 T olive oil

2-4 pork chops, bone-in

½ – 1 yellow onion, sliced in rings

1-2 small apples, thinly sliced

1-2 baking potatoes, sliced thinly

2 cloves garlic

Salt & Pepper to taste

1 ½ cups wine – either red or white

In sauté pan, heat olive oil slightly.  Add sliced onions, sliced apples and garlic. Sauté till slightly brown, about 10 minutes. Remove mixture from pan. Add more oil if needed, heat to higher temperature and add pork chops. Sear both sides of the chops till nicely browned. Add sliced potatoes over the pork chops, then add apples and onion mixture. Pour the wine on top. Cover and let cook on low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Enjoy

Before you select your outfit recognize that golf courses have a dress code, which may vary from club to club. When in doubt call the pro shop to check how strict they may be. It could mean an expensive trip to the pro shop if your outfit is not acceptable. You’re probably safe if in a top with a collar (or no collar with sleeves) and a short, skort or golf dress no more than 2-3 inches above the knee. Denim, halter tops, short shorts and plunging necklines are best to be avoided – to abide with the dress code and achieve a professional look.

Tips for Selecting Your ‘Suit’

Style – With the influx of women entering the game, designers are responding with a wide variety of fashionable mix and match pieces. Look for transitional pieces that will carry you into the clubhouse for dinner – you may even have something in your closet. Think of your outfit as an extension of the professional style you keep in the office.  Go for skorts or capris over shorts for a dressier look. Pick tailored or sporty pieces over something more suited for casual weekend golf. Don’t be afraid to use color, patterns or touches of bling to reflect your personal style. Consider a golf dress for one piece dressing!  (Photo/Link to Sport Haley dress.)

Fit and Comfort – All eyes will be upon you, so be sure you check your reflection from all angles – think tee box with your back to the carts. Golf is a game of movement so be sure your clothing and footwear is geared for sport. When you swing, is you top long enough? When bend down, does your skirt provide enough coverage? When you walk are your shoes comfortable? Look for fabrics with stretch and technical properties – such as moisture wicking fabric – to keep your clothing looking fresh throughout your round.

Accessorize – All good executives are prepared for meetings. Golf is no different.  Think of your golf bag as a briefcase on course, and stock it with everything you’ll need throughout the day. Along with your golf gear bring accessories that will add to your polished look. Put aside your worn items and break out a new golf glove, towel and hat. Bring a logoed bag tag or tote bag to start up a conversation.  (Women on Course – tell me about that?) Don’t forget to prepare for changing weather conditions. An extra layer for warmth and rain gear is nice to have in your bag.

Now the fun part– let’s go shopping!

Put together your business golf look with Sport Haley apparel.  WOC members receive 15% off (log in and visit our clubhouse page for discount code). Shop the collection: http://www.womenoncourse.com/sport-haley-page.php