Golfers preparing to tee off at Rolling Meadows Golf Course in Fond du Lac on February 8, 2024, during an unusually warm day. PC: Fox 11 Online
FOND DU LAC, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The unusually warm temperatures we’re experiencing are leading to unusual outdoor activities — things we don’t normally see in February in Wisconsin.
Usually dormant this time of year, the playground at Lakeside Park in Fond du Lac isn’t buried in snow and is instead full of life.
“We saw the sun and we decided to come to the park; Taking advantage of the warm, warm weather,” said Allie Hinson of Fond du Lac.
Aric Bengel of Oshkosh is using the warm weather as a reason to get some wind therapy, taking his Harley for a ride. He said, “I’ve rode at least twice every month the last six years. If there’s no snow on the road and it’s at least above freezing I’ll ride. This is warm. This is warm for me.”
With thermometers around Northeast Wisconsin reading into the 50’s on February 8, there were plenty of people out and about enjoying the spring-like weather.
“It’s incredible. I mean it’s a little scary, you can’t really control the weather so we’re just trying to lean into it, have a positive mental attitude and enjoy it,” said Pete Donin.
He’s enjoying the weather by hitting the links with several friends.
According to Josh Meacham, “It’s unbelievable. I can’t believe it. Rolling Meadows is open and they’re just the best people ever.”
Eighteen of the 27 holes at Rolling Meadows, along with the driving range have been open since Wednesday.
“I actually played yesterday. There’s a few extra hazards out there with the snow drifts, but otherwise it’s playable. There’s very little frost, if any, in the ground so the greens and everything came through the winter real well,” said golf course assistant Terry Flesch.
More than a hundred players have booked tee times this week.
“We’re coming out to practice for our trip, in a week, we’re going out to Arizona. So, we’re getting our swings in so when we get out there we can kick up our heels and and be hot on the golf course,” added Cindy Klapperich of Kiel who was playing in foursome.
While the people out enjoying this warm February day are realistic and know this is Wisconsin and it probably won’t last forever, they’re still going to eat it up for as long as they can.
Terry Flesch added, “Old man winter might have a few more days for us, but right now, currently, when you look at the big picture we’re a couple of months ahead of schedule.”
Rolling Meadows is operating on day-by-day basis, but as long as the weather stays warm and the course is in good shape, it will continue to book tee times.
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