Cedar Rapids Golf News - March 7, 2025

March 7, 2025

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City of Cedar Rapids Golf Newsletter

Paul's Putter Report - Meet Your Golf Leadership Team

Hello Cedar Rapids golf community!

I’m excited to introduce myself as the new Golf Business Manager for the City of Cedar Rapids and, more importantly, to introduce the incredible leadership team that makes golf in our city such a great experience. With a combined 166 years of golf industry experience, this team is passionate about providing a welcoming, well-maintained, and service-driven golf environment for players of all skill levels.

I joined the city in October 2024, bringing with me 28 years of golf leadership experience, most recently as the Clubhouse Director at Cedar Rapids Country Club. What drew me to this opportunity was not just the chance to work with multiple courses, but also the talented team and the engaged golf community here. As I visited the city’s courses, I was truly impressed—Ellis Golf Course, with its rich history dating back to 1919, is a historic gem. Twin Pines is a fantastic course for golfers of all abilities, and Gardner adds even more opportunities for players to enjoy the game. I knew right away that this would be a great fit.

Leadership Team and City of Cedar Rapids Years of Experience

Chad Bildstein – Head Superintendent, Ellis – 28 years
Mark McMahon – PGA Head Golf Pro, Ellis – 12 years
Chauncey Berry – Head Superintendent, Twin Pines – 34 years
Steve Charters – PGA Head Golf Pro, Twin Pines and Gardner – 22 years
Jeff Schmidt – Head Superintendent, Gardner – 30 years
Lisa Grekoff – Customer Service Rep – 12 years

Our team is dedicated to maintaining the beauty and playability of our courses, enhancing the golf experience, and ensuring that every player feels welcome. One of the city’s major initiatives—one that we are all proud to be a part of—is making all golf facilities 100% ADA-compliant. Golf should be accessible to everyone, and we are committed to making that a reality.

In addition to our golf operations team, we are also proud to offer excellent event facilities available to rent. Whether you’re planning a graduation party, wedding reception, or special gathering, our spaces provide a beautiful and convenient setting. Angel Harper – (319) 286-5091 - our Event Rental Coordinator, is here to help with scheduling and ensuring that every event meets and exceeds your expectations at Ellis Event Center and Jones Lodge.

Looking ahead, our focus is on innovation and service. We see great opportunities to streamline operations, modernize our facilities, and continue improving the golfer experience. Whether it’s through better course conditions, full-service event coordination, or an enhanced level of service, we want to make sure every round of golf at a Cedar Rapids City course is enjoyable and memorable.

Most importantly, we want to hear from you. This is your golf community, and we want to make it better for everyone. If you have ideas, feedback, or just want to connect, I encourage you to reach out to me – P.Willenbring@Cedar-Rapids.org, office (319) 286-5580, cell (319) 391-9407.

We’re excited about the future of golf in Cedar Rapids and look forward to seeing you on the course!

Paul Willenbring

Golf Business Manager

Golf Season is Upon Us!

Mark your calendars! Twin Pines Golf Course and driving range (hitting mats only), and Mini Pines Miniature Golf Course will open on Tuesday, March 11 at 8:00am, weather permitting! Tee times are required - visit PlayCedarRapidsGolf.com to schedule. Beginning Wednesday the clubhouse will open at 7:30am daily with tee times beginning at 8:00am; however, golf availability will be dependent on weather. Please check with the Pro Shop and starter for golf cart restrictions on a day-to-day basis. Contact Twin Pines - (319) 286-5583 or PlayCedarRapidsGolf.com for more information.

Preparations are underway to open Gardner and Ellis. Watch your email for updates, or visit PlayCedarRapidsGolf.com.

And don't forget that golf passes and punch cards are available. Buy yours now at PlayCedarRapidsGolf.com. They can also be purchased at Ellis Clubhouse from 9:00am-4:00pm Monday-Friday or at Twin Pines from 7:30am-Dusk seven days a week, weather permitting.

City of Cedar Rapids Golf Celebrates Achievements

The City of Cedar Rapids Golf Operation had a standout year in 2024, earning recognition for both fun and sustainability. Mini Pines, our popular miniature golf course, was named the Best Mini Golf Course in Iowa by Golf.com, a testament to its creative design and top-notch playing experience. This honor highlights the course's appeal to families, casual golfers, and competitive players alike.

In addition, Ellis Clubhouse achieved recognition as a Net Zero Energy Facility, meaning it produces as much energy as it consumes. This milestone underscores the City's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility while providing a modern and efficient space for golfers and visitors.

These achievements reflect the City of Cedar Rapids Golf's dedication to excellence, innovation, and community enjoyment on and off the course.

42nd Street Construction

As part of Cedar Rapids' Paving for Progress program, 42nd Street NE will be updated from Edgewood Road NE to East of Pine View Drive NE beginning Monday, March 17. The project includes roadway, storm sewer; and sidewalk improvements, along with water main and sanitary sewer replacement. 42nd Street traffic flow will be impacted throughout the project so make sure you allow enough time to get to the course in time to tee off. At times construction will impact current access to the Twin Pines parking lot; however, the parking lot will be available at all times.For more information visit CityofCR.Org/PavingForProgress. We'll continue providing updates throughout the project.