1 – Currency update

As we embark upon 2026, remember that pennies are no longer being minted. So to throw in your random opinions, the starting point is now a nickel. May I suggest you be prudent with your thoughts.

2 – Level par, thus far

We need to accentuate the positive, right. So here goes: Most of us in the Northeast and Midwest have yet to make a bogey in 2026.

3 – Whale watch, at least

No Kapalua. Such a shame. But here’s my pitch to The Golf Channel: Post a camera on No. 12 tee box at the Plantation Course and do a half-hour coverage of whales breaching in Honolua Bay, say 4 to 4:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. Oh, and let Mark Rolfing announce. We need to hear Rolf in early January.

4 – They’re all the rage

If they were filming the golf-version of “The Graduate” in 2026, Mr. McGuire would lean in and whisper to Benjamin Braddock, “I just want to say one word to you. Simulators.”

GOLF COURSE PHOTO -- Ah, the simple reminders of a game that we are blessed to play and which sometimes asks us to extend basic courtesies. You've cleared the green? Wonderful. Just let the players behind you know. This gem is part of the charm at Marion Golf Club, a joyous 9-holer. As always, please forward any novel golf course photos to jim@powerfades.com

5 – Use the space to groove the swing

Once inside the elevator there was a lack of communication, even with just the two of us. For perhaps 10 seconds the elevator stayed at ground level. “Did you press the button for Floor 23?” I was asked. “No,” I said, properly standing toward the back wall, swinging an imaginary golf club. “Can’t you see that I’m working on a weight shift in my swing.” She shook her head, pushed the button for Floor 23 and muttered “must you always mimic your golf swing in an elevator?” I wanted to say, “Well, yes, for now. But I’m actually waiting to get home so I get more room in the kitchen,” but I just shrugged and made one last swing.

6 – Be loyal to the cause

The “golf ball goes too far” lobby is spending the offseason on the warpath about how the kicked-football goes too far.

7 – Please explain

I remain fascinated at all these “single-season” records, yet no one keeps tabs on “double-season” or “triple-season” marks.

8 – You know it’s going to happen

Bold prediction for 2026: An 18-handicapper will shoot an 82 and not hand in the score.

9 – Climate change

On these bone-chilling January days, don’t you want to call up those folks who refuse to play on sultry July days because it’s too hot and say to them, “you must be way more comfortable now."