For a quarter of a century, we've been proudly a part of the Pennsburg golfing community, witnessing the ebb and flow of the game, the evolution of technology, and the enduring passion of golf enthusiasts. As we mark this significant milestone, we're not just celebrating our family business; we're commemorating a journey, a legacy built on love for the game of golf and dedication to our customers.
Since Sweet Water Golf first opened its doors in 1999, our mission has remained steadfast: to provide unparalleled customer service, educating those new to the game, and an unforgettable experience for every golfer who graces our greens. Today, as we reflect on 25 years of memories, milestones, and countless rounds of golf, we're filled with gratitude for the unwavering support to all of you, our customers, to the dedication of our staff (who are our extended family), and the enduring spirit of the sport itself.
To express our heartfelt appreciation and celebrate this momentous occasion, we invite you to join us for a day of festivities on Friday, June 28, 2024. It's a day dedicated to you—our loyal patrons—who have been the driving force behind our success. Here's what you can expect:
Golf Towel Giveaway: The first 150 customers to arrive will receive a commemorative golf towel, a token of our gratitude for your continued support over the years. It's a small gesture, but one that symbolizes the bond we share with each and every one of you.
$1 Hot Dogs and Soda: What's a celebration without some delicious food? Indulge in mouthwatering hot dogs and refreshing soda, served at an unbeatable price of just $1 each. It's our way of saying thank you for being a part of our journey.
Live Music by Michael Kropp: Sit back, relax, and enjoy the soulful tunes of Michael Kropp as he serenades us with his musical talents. From classic hits to toe-tapping melodies, his performance promises to add an extra layer of joy to our festivities. https://www.golfsweetwater.com/pub/registration/michael-kropp-fri-jun-28-24
Fantastic Food Specials: Treat your taste buds to an array of delectable pub food specially curated for the occasion. There’s something to satisfy every craving. Prepare to indulge in culinary delights that will leave you wanting more. https://www.golfsweetwater.com/images/downloads/tapped-out-menu.pdf
Self-Serve SweetWater Brewing Company Beer: Raise a glass and toast to 25 years of excellence with a refreshing pint of SweetWater brewed beer. Some of you may or may not know, we visited this brewery in Atlanta, GA back in the day when they were starting out and and made a friendship! We try to carry their product when we can. Visit our self serve beer (and wine) wall, allowing you to pour yourself a cold one whenever the mood strikes. Cheers to many more years of shared memories and unforgettable moments on the green. https://www.golfsweetwater.com/pub/self-serve-beer-wall
As we look ahead to the next chapter of our journey, we remain committed to upholding the values that have defined us from the very beginning: integrity, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. We love our community and love that we are a small family owned and operated business. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the game, we invite you to continue sharing in our love for golf and the camaraderie it fosters.
So mark your calendars, gather your friends, and join us as we raise a toast to 25 years of tee-rific memories. Together, let's celebrate the past, embrace the present, and tee off into an even brighter future. Here's to another 25 years of driving success, one swing at a time!
Golf opens at 8am, Pub opens 12-9
History & Pics
RENOVATED PENNSBURG GOLF COURSE TO REOPEN A MONTH AGO, IT WAS OVERGROWN. PLAYERS WILL BEGIN TEEING OFF SATURDAY
By MORNING CALL | Staff Report
PUBLISHED: June 24, 1999 at 4:00 a.m. | UPDATED: October 4, 2021 at 12:14 p.m.
When Bob and Joan Kolonia took over the old Pennsburg Golf Course on June 1, it was hard to believe someone would be playing there in a little more than three weeks. “It needed a lot of work,” recalled Joan Kolonia after she finished applying a fresh coat of paint to the restrooms at the course Wednesday afternoon. “You couldn’t tell the fairways from the roughs. The greens weren’t in bad shape, though.” Thanks to hours of work by family and friends, the course is in good enough shape to open to the public Saturday morning, right on schedule. “Now, if we could just get some rain,” said Kolonia, looking at the patches of dry, brown grass around her.
The Hunterdon County, N.J., couple bought the course from Joe Gehringer, who built it 30 years ago along Geryville Pike. As he got older, Gehringer, 79, put the course up for sale a couple of times. He couldn’t be reached for comment Wednesday. The Kolonia's, a family of avid golfers, heard about its availability this time through a business associate and decided to make an offer. Bob Kolonia, who patented a popular wood-splitting ax in the early 1970s, owns an injection molding business in New Jersey. After striking a deal with Gehringer, the first thing the couple did was change the name to Sweetwater Golf Course. Several small streams dot the course along with a large pond, which the Kolonia's hope eventually to triple in size.
The major challenge for the past three weeks, however, has been trimming the course from 14 holes to 9. Over the years, Gehringer had added the extra 5 holes. Downsizing the course meant cutting down trees, realigning fairways and installing temporary tees. The result is a more wide-open course that still is challenging and fun to play, according to Kolonia.
In the fall, the Kolonia's plan to renovate the pro shop, add a driving range and open a teaching center at the course. The facility will be managed by their daughter, Sharon, and her husband, Jeff Vietmeier, former greens superintendent at the University of Maryland. For most of Gehringer’s ownership, the course catered to a golfing clientele that either didn’t want or didn’t need the typical trappings of an upscale country club. Joan Kolonia said she still expects to attract that type of customer while offering more attractive surroundings. All the change won’t come without a price, however. The Kolonia's are raising greens fees from $7 to $10 on weekdays and from $9 to $12 on weekends.
“We think that’s something the average golfer can afford,” she said. “We’ve made major improvements to the course. Some of the holes are much longer.” With only two days until the course opens, Sweetwater was a beehive of activity Wednesday. Efforts will be concentrated on making sure golfers have an enjoyable experience, said Joan Kolonia. “We’d like to be further along,” she said. “But the course is playable. I don’t think anyone will complain.”
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