Enjoy the Final Buick Open

It's a somewhat melancholy atmosphere hanging over the lush fairways and greens at Warwick Hills this week, as what is believed to be the final Buick Open is held. I've had the privilege not only of covering the tournament for nearly 2 decades, but also to work with a handful of the charities that directly benefit from the annual PGA event.

Tiger is in town this week, so the finale of the Buick will be festive. It's much to his credit that he is playing here. His direct impact will save the week financially and help the charities immensely...so thank you to Tiger!

But it didn't have to be this way. Sure, the economy is hurting and Michigan is a wreck right now (in the process of being "blown away" as promised by our Governor). But I can't help but wonder what would have happened had the Big Three stood up to Congress when they were beaten down for being involved in entertaining, charitable contributions, and golf sponsorships. Just a few minutes of tongue-lashing from the Big Three CEO's back at the ridiculous Barney Frank, and perhaps golf sponsorship wouldn't have taken such a beating.

Whatever the hindsight analysis provides, I, for one, am sad to see our state's only PGA Tour event leaving. We'll enjoy this week to the fullest and then begin the process of lamenting its loss.

And I don't think it had to be that way. Do you?