Ups and downs from the U.S. Open

Birdie: The USGA. Golf’s governing body called a penalty on itself for its Grinch-like inclement-weather policy that left Thursday’s ticket-holders fuming. Officials ultimately decided that not only would first-round washout victims be admitted Monday, they would be entitled to a 50% refund if no golf is played Monday.

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Bogey: Ernie Els. The Big Easy will have a tough time making the cut after making four double bogeys in an opening-round 78. He’s 12 over through 29 holes.

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Birdie: A generous golf fan. New York Gov. David Paterson was walking by the clubhouse Friday afternoon, followed by staffers and security, when a man approached and offered him a beer. Paterson reacted quickly and graciously: “Finally! Thank you.”

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Bogey: Boo Weekley. To paraphrase David Simms while ribbing Roy “Tin Cup” McAvoy, how in the world can a great ball-striker like Weekley shoot 79 in the first round of the Open? Don’t be a wise guy and reply that Weekley missed a par putt for 78.

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Birdie: The 180-member Bethpage Black grounds crew. Tiger Woods was among those noting the staff did “a hell of a job” to get the course ready after more than an inch of rain fell Thursday.

-- Teddy Greenstein