Last week the local community lost a great man. Marvin Newberg was a friend of mine and friend to many in this county. He was a fellow golfer and a good one at that. He competed in many local and state tournaments throughout his playing days. I met Marvin when I was the teaching Pro at Kutsher’s CC over 40 years ago. We played golf on a weekly basis for years. 

We had our regular game here at Villa Roma for a long time. In the last couple of years, he joined Tarry Brae and Lochmor, so our games weren’t as frequent. Two weeks ago, he asked me if I was playing on that Monday and I said I had no game. He said OK, I’ll skip the game at Lochmor and come play with you. 

That’s who Marvin was. He cared about people. He was always there for you. Last week he wanted to play in the  Democrat practice tournament but his son Ben couldn’t make it and neither could my partner. 

I texted him that I would play with him. He said, “Only if I could be Captain”. I knew what he meant. He wanted to help read the greens, talk strategy, keep me positive if I hit some bad shots. He was a great competitor. Everyone who played with Marvin enjoyed their round of golf. 

   Marvin played in all 42 Sullivan County Democrat tournaments until last year. Family always came first. He went on grandchildren duty that week last year. I don’t know what else to say. I will miss my friend helping me with the Calcutta this weekend. This year just won’t be the same. 

  The Democrat Predictions

 Final Four:   Mike Decker and Mike Scuderi, Sean Semenetz and Joe Winski, Kort Wheeler and Walter Herzog.  Joe Meyer and Justin Bowers.

Kort and Walter are on a mission this year after a sub-par tournament last year. Sean and Joe are on the same mission. I think that’s the final match and Sean and Joe get another title.