Hickory Ridge Public Golf Course, Carbondale, IL

One of the better courses in southern IL. Consistently in very good shape. Played this week after heavy rains, but fairways and greens were excellent. Some very interesting holes (one or two that may be too "gimmicky"). Been there frequently and have never had problems with the staff, but have heard others complain.

In my opinion, there are two things that keep this from being a good course. The first is that many of the staff act like they own the place and do not want you on the property. This is a management issue, but unless they have new management, that attitude extends there, too. Actually, all other problems pale in light of the first problem. The people are why I do not play there.