I think it’s safe to say it’s officially cool to play golf. 2025 was another record-breaking year, with over 500 million on-course golf rounds played in the U.S. Golf is no longer the snooty sport exclusively reserved for the elite. A record 47 million Americans played golf in 2025, including on-course golf, simulators, and driving ranges. There were over 3.4 million beginner golfers in 2025. Social golfing is redefining the sport, placing more focus on fun than score, and driving revenue and participation sky high.
Author Archives: LOP2
THE 41ST ANNUAL LAKE OF THE OZARKS CHRISTMAS PARADE drew festive crowds down Bagnell Dam Strip December 13, celebrating the theme “Lake of the Ozarks Goes Hollywood” with creatively decorated floats and holiday cheer. Trish Creach served as Grand Marshal, leading the procession of lights, music, and community spirit that celebrated the holiday season at the Lake.
AT L•O PROFILE we’re grateful for our marketing partners who help bring each issue to life. Their support allows us to share the stories, people, and places that make the Lake of the Ozarks special. These partners are more than advertisers—they are local businesses invested in the region’s growth and character. We are proud to collaborate with them and appreciate the creativity, commitment, and passion they bring to every project. Thank you for celebrating the Lake with us.
COMMUNITY SHINES IN PINK. Our community came together in a sea of pink on Friday, October 17, 2025, at The Encore Lakeside Grill & Sky Bar for the 3rd Annual PINK-OUT PARTY—an inspiring evening dedicated to celebrating survivors, honoring fighters, and supporting life-saving cancer care and clinical research close to home. Guests enjoyed live entertainment by the SoulRoot Band, along with live and silent auctions, themed cocktails, and powerful stories of hope—all helping to raise critical funds to advance local cancer treatment and clinical research at Lake Regional Health System.
ON NOVEMBER 11TH, the Lake of the Ozarks Detachment 736 celebrated the 250th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps, honoring members for their dedicated service. The ceremony featured a moving video message from Marine Corps Commandant Eric M. Smith and the traditional cutting of the Marine Corps birthday cake, where the oldest Marine shared the first bite with the youngest Marine in attendance—a symbolic tradition celebrating legacy, unity, and honor. Additionally, the Community Foundation of the Lake presented a $10,150 check for Wreaths Across America, supporting the placement of wreaths on veterans’ graves at five local cemeteries.
Step inside Marlese Loveall’s home, and it feels like stepping into a storybook. Every corner is filled with meaning, memory, and carefully curated design choices that reflect not only her love for beauty but also her love for family and tradition. Built on a rare point lot in Sunrise Beach, the home is surrounded by sweeping water views and designed with two priorities in mind: the kitchen and the Christmas trees. Together, they tell the story of a home built with intention, function, and heart.
THE 2025 CONCERT SERIES at Ozarks Amphitheater featured performances by Nate Bargatze, Earth, Wind & Fire, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, Barenaked Ladies, Trace Adkins, Darius Rucker, and Train. Fans enjoyed a variety of music and festivities this season, including the Food Truck Festival and Hot Air Balloon Rally. Music lovers are encouraged to stay tuned for the 2026 concert lineup, which will be announced on Ozarks Amphitheater’s Facebook page and website.
L•O PROFILE AND DAWN AND MERLYN VANDERVORT ROLLED OUT THE RED CARPET AT ITS 18TH ANNIVERSARY LAUNCH CELEBRATION on Tuesday, September 9, at The Encore Lakeside Grill & Sky Bar. More than 225 guests gathered lakeside for a special evening of celebration, connection, and philanthropy.
THE RUMBLE OF ENGINES AND THE ROAR OF EXCITEMENT FILLED THE REGION AS THE LAKE OF THE OZARKS 19TH ANNUAL BIKEFEST rolled into the Lake area, September 10–14, 2025. Recognized as the state’s largest motorcycle rally, the event drew thousands of riders and enthusiasts from near and far.
THE 37TH ANNUAL LAKE OF THE OZARKS SHOOTOUT drew record crowds for nearly two weeks of high-octane excitement and community celebration. The festivities kicked off with the 16th Annual Mini Shootout at Ha Ha Tonka on August 15, presented by Van Subaru, followed by the SHOOTOUT Hall of Fame Dinner at Big Thunder Showroom, the Street Party on Bagnell Dam, and the Poly Lift Boat Lifts Poker Run.










