What I envision for this Museum and Hall of Fame is not very extravagant. In fact, it's rather modest. My thinking is mainly to hang framed photographs, many of which must certainly exist, and some plaques commemorating people and events. The original plans from the 1920s and aerial photographs from the 1930s were used to restore the course, not long ago, to what the original architect intended. This kind of material would certainly be worthy of inclusion. A perfect space already exists at El Rio, including an actual hall, so no building will need to be built for it.

The Museum:

  The perfect space for the Museum is directly across from the Pro Shop in what I would characterize as a lobby area. This area has a separate entrance surrounded by glass so it would be highly visible. Others who have become involved in this project agree that this is the ideal place for it.

  I would like to see it set up in such a way that someone walking past and glancing in that direction would instantly know that there is a history of the course to explore. I also think it should be set up so one could walk through it in a couple of minutes (many people will be anxious to tee it up) and get the general feel of that history, or spend more time in a more in-depth visit in which they could learn much more.

  The emphasis will be on the Tucson Open when it was played at El Rio from 1945 through 1962, but it would not be limited to that. There are other stories to tell as well.

The Hall of Fame:

  There is a hallway leading from the proposed site of the Museum to the restaurant. This just begs to become a Hall of Fame, featuring framed photographs of the legendary golfers who have played at El Rio.

  The main entrance to McKale Center on the University of Arizona campus, where the Arizona Wildcats play basketball, is lined with many photos of Arizona athletes who have made good. Annika Sorenstam and Jim Furyk are pictured there, among many others. It is a very impressive walkway which definitely leaves the impression that one is in a place of athletic excellence and rich history. Something similar could be done at El Rio Golf Course.

  The great unknown at this point is what other material might become available along the way. There could be artifacts and memorabilia which could be uncovered as this project gains momentum and public awareness. This makes it difficult, at this very early stage, to come up with a ballpark figure of what this museum might cost. Framed photos and plaques, and perhaps a fresh coat of paint, would not cost much at all. It can't be predicted at this time whether or not any display cases or anything of that nature will be needed. All this remains to be seen.

  I have been finding nothing but support and enthusiasm for this idea. It appears that all that was needed was to get the proverbial ball rolling. I'm really glad that I was able to do so. It's looking like it will become a reality, but there is still much to be done.