THE NAVIGATOR
THE WATER’S EDGE COUNTRY CLUB
WATER’S EDGE WATER’S EDGE
CLUB PROFESSIONALS
Robert Lambert | Club Manager rlambert@watersedgecountryclub com 540-576-1556
Jodi Gourley | Assistant Club Manager jgourley@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-1556
Ruth Rice | Member Services Director rrice@watersedgecountryclub com 540-524-9075
Ed Currin | PGA Director of Golf ecurrin@watersedgecountryclub com 540-576-3343
Casey Hodges | Assistant Golf Pro hodges@watersedgecountryclub com 540-576-3343
Jeff Snyder | Golf Course Superintendent jsnyder@watersedgecountryclub com 540-576-3734
Kristina Wray | Equestrian Center Manager barn@watersedgecountryclub com 540-576-2714
Donald Huston | Assistant Golf Course Superintendent
dhuston@watersedgecountryclub com 540-576-3734
John Guthmann | Head Tennis Pro tennis@watersedgecountryclub com 434-927-5039
John Hanek | Executive Chef chef@watersedgecountryclub.com 540-576-1556
Dining Hours
CLUBHOUSE DINING
Monday | Closed
Tuesday | 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Cortney Herndon | Personal Fitness Trainer cortney.herndon@spectrummed.com
Golf Shop
Wednesday - Thursday | 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday - Saturday | 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday | 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
TAKE OUT
Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Wednesday – Saturday | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM*
*Dinner take out orders need to be placed by 5:30 PM & picked up by 6:00 PM; pizzas available until 8:00 PM
Sunday | 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Call (540)-576-1556 to place your order
Gym Hours
Access through the club
See above club hours
App Access Hours
5:30 AM- 9:00 PM
Equestrian Center
Daily | 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Chase Scarce | Physical Therapy Assistant chase scarce@spectrummed com
Tuesday - Sunday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Driving Range
Monday | Closed Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday & Thursday | Range 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Club Phone Numbers
Clubhouse: (540)576-1556
Golf Pro Shop: (540)576-3343
Member Services: (540)524-9075
Equestrian Center: (540)576-2714
Personal Trainer: (540)493-7388
Community Contact Information
AEP: (800)-277-2177
For power outages
VDOT: (800)-367-7623
For downed trees blocking state-maintained roads
TheWater’sEdgeCountryClub
Manager'sMessage
ROBERTLAMBERT,CLUBMANAGER
Happy New Year to our Water’s Edge families! I hope that this note finds you safe & well and that you had a Merry Christmas, and a wonderful holiday season filled with happiness, meaningful family time, and new memories. First and foremost, I would like to thank all of you who contributed to the Employee Christmas Fund. It was greatly appreciated by all the staff from equestrian, golf maintenance, tennis, clubhouse, and golf shop Each department does a tremendous job to make the club experience meet and exceed your expectations
I would like to thank Ruth Rice for heading up the decorating committee for the holiday season I would also like to recognize the following members who help Ruth with decorating Barbara Beck, Lee Jankus, Susan Willis, and Carol Kennedy: thank you for your time and hard work the club was beautiful!
On behalf of McConnell Golf and The Water’s Edge staff, thank you for the overwhelming support in the past year 2024 was an extremely successful year! We started the year with our new wine club. We tasted many new and wonderful wines, as each event was both fun and educational. We are looking to build on our successes with the wine club in 2025. We had great participation with many other events like Footloose Fridays, Meet Your Neighbor, Holiday Cookouts, and Footprints on the Green. I cannot tell you enough how much we all appreciate your continued support. On that note, if there is anything we can do to elevate your experience at the club, please feel free to reach out to me or any one of our fine club team members.
We also had successes in membership and retention, we welcomed 30 new members with a net increase of 11, bringing our total to 463 memberships We are looking forward to another great year as we await the construction of new day docks near #10 tee box The construction of these docks will enable us to offer more invitational memberships to those living on the lake
I would be remiss if I fail to mention the crazy weather patterns we had in 2024 All the hot and dry days to begin the summer followed by a weeklong rain It seemed that we got all our rain for the month in a few short days Then, later, having to clean up fallen trees and debris from hurricane Helene Managing turf grass and Mother Nature requires our superintendent to make decisions centered around the plant health Winter solstice is upon us, and it marks the first day of winter with the shortest days of the year Plant growth is very minimal right now therefore the mowers will be idle for most of the winter. The turf will be taller, and the greens will be a bit slower. Thank you for your patience as you play some winter golf at the Water’s Edge.
Together, our staff will continue to make the Water’s Edge Country Club the best it can be. I would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and ideas. Please stop by anytime to speak with me. I am looking forward to a great and wonderful 2025!
DiningHours
Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner
Monday | Closed Tuesday | 11:00am - 3:00pm Wednesday - Thursday | 11:00am - 8:00pm
Take-out orders need to be placed by 5:30pm & picked up by 6:00pm; pizzas available until 8:00pm
Friday & Saturday | 11:00am - 9:00pm
Take-out orders need to be placed by 5:30pm & picked up by 6:00pm; pizzas available until 8:00pm
Sunday | 11:00am - 3:00pm
MEMBERSHIP REMINDERS:
Notary services are available at the sales office. Call me to set up an appointment. You will need to present identification such as a picture ID, driver’s license, passport, etc.
MemberServicesMessage MemberServicesMessage
RUTH RICE, MEMBER SERVICES DIRECTOR
What a year 2024 turned out to be for membership! We welcomed 30 new members to The Water’s Edge Nine of those members were invitational members The limited number of available properties has impacted how membership can grow within the community, so going into 2025, the invitational membership will be a focus to help grow our membership numbers I am looking forward to seeing what 2025 brings to The Water’s Edge!
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to those that pick up litter on Water’s Edge Drive monthly Your commitment to picking up trash often unnoticed or unappreciated has a significant impact on our environment, our health, and the pride we feel for our community
Every moment you spend improving our surroundings is a testament to your dedication and compassion.
Together, your efforts make our community cleaner, healthier, and more welcoming for everyone. We are so grateful to have people like you who lead by action and remind us all of the power of teamwork and kindness.
With deepest appreciation and respect, we thank you for taking the time to make a difference!
Jim Wilson
Clark Childers
Jay Rule
Ray Del Campo
George Karr
Pat Simonic
Membership Opportunities
WelcomeNewMembers
The Drake Family
We would like to welcome our new neighbors and members of the club - the Drakes.
Will and Debbie Drake have three kids - Charlotte attends the University of Hawaii (Go Bows) and both Katie and Roman are in high school They are from Warrenton, VA and Waters Edge is their second home They are thrilled to be here, and many people in the community have been so welcoming to them already The kindness of the people with such a strong community and the beautiful golf course were an easy "yes" for the Drake’s when seeking a house that will eventually become a retirement home for us.
They've been coming to Smith Mountain Lake for at least 20 years and absolutely love it. Will and Roman have participated in numerous bass fishing tournaments over the years and both enjoy golfing Debbie and the girls love exploring the lake They love lake life! Will and Debbie are an easy-going couple, and you may sometimes see them walking 1, 2 or all 3 of their dogs2 of which are rescues (lab mix and terrier mix) and the youngest is a 2 year old chocolate lab
WelcomeNewMembersContinued
Jeanne Miller & Brad Singer
Jeanne Miller was originally from the bustling city of Chicago; she made the move to Lancaster, Pennsylvania 35 years ago and embraced the journey ever since For the past 25 years, she has worked as a financial consultant, helping clients navigate their financial goals. Now, as she nears retirement, she is looking forward to embracing new opportunities and getting to know each of you in this wonderful community.
With spring on the horizon, Jenny is excited to explore the lake and indulge in one of her favorite hobbies fishing Jenny can’t wait to see what adventures lie ahead and to connect with all of you!
Living the dream and it just got better! Brad Singer was wondering what was I thinking? He has been land-locked in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania with a yearning to be on the water Over the past four decades of a career in the in the industrial distribution game, the final shipment is just on the horizon
So, what is next? Well, it certainly looks like a little lake life is in order. Tennis, pickleball… maybe some golf? The country roads may be beckoning for a leisurely ride. Brad has heard there are some good off-road trails for ATVs and UTVs. Now we’re talking! You can take the boy off the farm, but can’t take the farm out of the boy!
Jeanne is worried that Brad won’t have anything to do So, feel free to help occupy his time… grab your toys; he’s ready to go play. Looks like a great sandbox and Brad does play well with others… most of the time!
Membership Opportunities
The Stark Family
Steve and Edit Stark have two children - Ben is 14 years old and Emma just turned 11. The Starks live in Chapel Hill, NC and discovered Smith Mountain Lake 3 years ago. It was love at first sight, so they proceeded to purchase a vacation home
Steve and Ben both enjoy playing tennis and golf Edit prefers relaxing by the water while Emma performs her fearless jumps from the top level of their dock. Their dog, Coco (rescue poodle mix) also loves lake life, especially kayaking.
If you meet Edit and wonder where her accent is from, it is from Hungary! Feel free to ask her for travel tips in Budapest :) The family lived in Europe (Hungary and England) for 12 years before moving to the United States eight years ago While their love of travel continues, they feel settled living/working in North Carolina and relaxing in Virginia They are thankful to the Water’s Edge community for the warm welcome and can’t wait to meet more members!
GOLF NEWS
EDCURRIN,PGA|DIRECTOROFGOLF
Welcome to 2025 here at The Water's Edge! We hope everyone had a memorable and cheerful holiday season. Our golf staff has been hard at work planning a golf schedule that promises to offer something for everyone. A copy of the 2025 Golf Schedule will be provided upon its completion to each member via email for your planning purposes.
In the meantime, the winter season is a perfect time to revamp your golf bag. If you are looking for new grips, balls, clubs, gloves, or golf attire, we have what you need! Lessons are always available during the winter months for anyone looking for professional guidance on fine-tuning your swing. We have several available spaces for bag storage and/or lockers for your convenience. For any of these services, feel free to give us a call here in the Golf Shop, and we will be happy to assist.
2024 Men's Final Skins Shootout Winners
GROSS NET
Mark Hamilton (2) Jeff Bulla (2)
Mark Teets (1) Ron Willard, II (1)
Mike Turner (1) Dana Hussey (1)
Ray Matherly (1) Mark Hamilton (1)
Cooper Woolson (1) Lindsay Gordon (1)
Dana Hussey (1) Wayne Peppers (1) Coop
2025 Fee Schedule lis
Ladies Golf Association
Men's Golf Association
Bag Storage - $85
Locker - $40
Handicap Fee(GHIN) - $
GolfProShop
Tuesday-Sunday: 8:00am–
DrivingRange
Monday: Closed
Tuesday,Wednesday, Friday&Saturday|8:00a Sunday&Thursday|Ran
2024 Men's At-Large Skins Shootout Winners
GROSS NET
Brett Barbour (2) Mel Booker (2)
Jim Garner (1) Jim Garner (1)
Scott Wintrode (1)
MGA Award Winners Golfer of the Year - Mike Turner
The Water's Edge Golf Spring Schedule
March 17-18 Aerify Greens
April 10 Ladies Opening Day
April 11-12 Men's Opening Day
April 25 Currin Cup #1
May 8 - 9 Ladies' Member-Member
May 16 Men's 1 Day Member-Member
May 23 Currin Cup #2
June 1 Mixed Foursome
June 5-6 Ladies' Member-Guest
June 12-14 Men's Member-Guest
June 27 Currin Cup #3
GOLF NEWS CONTINUED
GolfCourseEtiquette
Here are a couple of items that we see happen on the course that many people seem to not follow
90 Degree Cart Rule – When carts are allowed on the course, players should stay on the path until they are even with the first ball in the fairway. The players should drive straight out to the ball. Then carts should be driven in the fairway, not the rough, to the last ball in the fairway or the exit sign Then the cart should be driven straight over to the cart path and up to the green
When you are entering a bunker, try to enter on the low side of the bunker, do not enter from the high or green side Entering on the low side is much safer, and players do not make as deep footprints that make it much easier to rake.
Be mindful of where you stand while other players are hitting shots. Safety is the number one concern here, while the other concern is being in the sight of the player hitting a shot On the green, never stand close to the hole or on the extended line of the person putting on the green On full shots, it’s usually best to stand to the front side of the person playing and slightly behind the ball
Push/pull carts should never be taken on top of a tee box and should never be any closer than 10 yards from a green. So that means they should never be on a collar or go between a greenside bunker and the green.
Always remember to replace your divots or fill with sand, rake your bunker and repair ball marks
Only two people shall ride in the golf cart
LADIESGOLFASSOCIATION LADIESGOLFASSOCIATION
Happy New Year !
Even though our golfing season has come to a close, we want to take a moment to thank each of you for making this year so special. From exciting tournaments to casual rounds filled with laughter, it’s been a fantastic season on the course, and we’ve loved seeing our community come together to share the game we all enjoy While 2024 brought us many rainy Thursdays, we’re hoping that 2025 brings us a season of sunshine during the day and only rain to happen overnight
While the colder months may take us off the greens for a while, we’re already looking ahead to the promise of spring In the meantime, we encourage you to stay active, stay connected, and keep that golfing spirit alive Whether it’s practicing your swing indoors, keeping up with fitness for golf, or just sharing memories from this season, there’s always a way to keep golf close to your heart
We hope everyone had a happy holiday season filled with laughter and good cheer. Looking forward to lots of golf as soon as the temperature gets into the 50s. Safe travels to all who are on the move, and we’ll see you on the front 9!
COURSEUPDATE
JEFFSNYDER,GOLFCOURSESUPERINTENDENT
We’re still golfing!! Temperatures dipped down to 25 degrees earlier in the month, but don’t put the clubs away just yet, because temperatures fluctuate frequently! Golf has slowed tremendously and keeping up with leaves has been our biggest challenge
We ended 2024 deep-tining the fairways, and the course is in good shape going into the winter Topdressing fairways will again happen during the off season and continue during the
golfing season. This will help with our soil and firmness. This fall, due to the storm that came through, we lost quite a bit of our first round of seeding on the course. We followed up with a second and third round of seeding, and we’re looking good heading into the winter. Few thin spots but looking for a full recovery and a great 2025. We have many other plans this off-season to keep the property heading in a positive direction. All dead trees throughout the property will be removed I will be working with the director of
agronomy on a tree removal plan. Sunlight and air movement is essential to turf health. Over the years, some holes, mostly on the front nine, have just gotten overgrown. Number one green this time of year doesn’t see the sun till after 10:00. The morning sun is the best for the turf. These holes need to be opened up while not damaging the playability of the hole. Sprinkler heads will be addressed, many need leveling. Water management is still our highest priority, the topdressing and quick couplers will be a big help. We will be changing our wetting agent products this coming year. New chemistry and more acreage to improve water infiltration and playability.
As we move into the winter, obviously the grass slows to a crawl. Please take the extra time to replace divots and sand the balance if any. Also, the greens can get firm and ball marks become harder to find Please take that extra time to fix yours and one other These little things can help us come out of the winter in great shape Hope you all had a great holiday and thanks for everyone’s help and support!!
WHY DO WE HAVE FROST DELAYS? WHY DO WE HAVE FROST DELAYS? DO FROST DELAYS?
Frost delays on a golf course occur to protect the turf, especially the grass on greens, tees, and fairways, from damage caused by foot or cart traffic Here's why:
1
Grass Vulnerability: When frost forms on the grass, the water inside the grass blades freezes, making them brittle Walking or driving on frosty grass crushes the frozen cells, causing them to rupture, which can kill the grass or leave it with long-lasting damage
2 Preservation of Greens: The greens are particularly sensitive to frost damage because they are closely mowed and are essential for gameplay. Maintaining their health is a top priority.
Recovery Time: Damaged grass from frost takes a long time to heal, leading to brown or dead patches This can negatively affect the playability and aesthetics of the course for weeks or even months.
3. Impact on Soil: Frost can also make the soil more compact when traffic occurs, affecting drainage and root growth over time.
4. Frost delays ensure the course stays in excellent condition for all golfers and reduce long-term maintenance issues. Once the frost melts, the grass becomes flexible and resilient again, making it safe for play.
EQUESTRIAN CENTER NEWS
Services Offered Services
Trail Rides
Ring Rides
Riding lessons for all ages
Boarding
Summer Horse Camp
Horse leasing
Birthday parties
Private parties
KRISTINAWRAY,EQUESTRIANCENTERMANAGER
Happy New Year, everyone! We would like to start off by thanking you all for making 2024 successful! The continued support and participation has made it our best year yet! One of our main goals is to ensure the Equestrian Center can be useful and enjoyable by all By doing so, going into 2025, we would like to hear from you all on ideas, events, and/or changes you would like to see moving forward A survey will be sent out towards the middle of January via email
Due to safety concerns, please note that no one is allowed at the Equestrian Center after hours (with the exception of staff and boarders) When you visit the barn during normal business hours, you are welcome to bring treats for the animals...the barn staff is required to inspect your treats and will give specific instructions to ensure the safety o barn.
Listed below are treats the animal really like!
Horses
Apple slices
Baby carrots or carrots cut to similar size
Peppermints
Pearl (the mini)
Apple slices cut to the size of a quarter
Baby carrots cut in half
Peppermints
Russell (potbelly)
Vegetables-Leafy greens, cucumbers, zucchini, pumpkin, carrot and squash
Fruit- Apples, bananas, strawberries, watermelon, and cantaloup
Other Favorites- Popcorn, cheerios, and crackers.
Cat (Bear)
Any store-bought cat treats are fine
Tiny Trotter Camps this year will be once a month. Horse Camp & Young Equestrian Camp will run on a normal schedule. If any of these dates do not coordinate with your schedule, we encourage you to book a mini camp with us! Mini camps are a great way to let your children experience camp on a smaller, more personal scale. Flyers with detailed information via email will be sent out soon along with camper registration forms. We look forward to an exciting year!
Tiny Trotter Camp
June: 10th
July: 8th
EQUESTRIAN CENTER T-SHIRT
We have Equestrian Center T-shirts available for purchase! We had these for kids camp and have several requests after. T-shirts colors available: Azaela, Carolina Blue, Dark Heather, and black.
Youth sizes S - XL
Adult sizes X - 2XL
August: 5th
Horse Camp
June: 18-19-20
25-26-27
July: 16-17-18
23-24-25
August: 13-14-15
20-21-22
Young Equestrian Camp
June: 11-12-13
July: 9-10-11
August: 6-7-8
TENNIS & FITNESS NEWS
Bad news! It’s still winter
Good news! The days are getting longer!!! That means spring is nearing and we are planning a busy 2025 tennis and pickleball season Right now, the soft tennis court nets have been removed; therefore, are not suitable for play. However, on any warm day, both the pickleball and hard tennis courts can be enjoyed. If you ’ re trying to stay up on your game, the tennis ball machine is available also; just make a reservation and pick up the key at the golf shop.
The Navigator will have more details as spring nears. As always, I am available for private lessons or racquet restringing, even during most of the winter. You may contact me directly at: 434-927-5039.
PHYSICALTHERAPY&PERSONALTRAINING
PHYSICALTHERAPYSERVICES:
PhysicalTherapyevaluationI$200.00 (includesevaluationandanyofthefollowinginterventions deemednecessary:dry-needling,exercise,manualtherapy equipmentforexercise)
PhysicalTherapyFollowupvisitsI$16500 (includesexercise,manualtherapy,equipmentsuchas thera-bandforexercise,anddry-needling,ifnecessary)
DryNeedlingSessionI$10000
PERSONALTRAININGRATES:
45-minutepersonaltrainingsessionfor1personI$75.00
Sessions not cancelled within 48 hours will be charged the full session fee
45-minutepersonaltrainingsessionfor2-3peopleI$65.00
45-minutepersonaltrainingsessionfor4-5people:$25.00/perperson($200 regardlessofattendanceisfortheweeklyfitnessclasses)
GymHours
TUESDAY - SUNDAY
ACCESS THROUGH THE CLUB:
SUNDAY & TUESDAY | 7AM - 3PM
WEDNESDAY - SATURDAY | 7AM8PM
MONDAY | CLOSED
GotPaxton?
The Paxton app provides members with access to the gym from 5:30 AM to 9:00 pm, seven days a week To sign up for the app, please contact Jodi Gourley at the email address listed below Please provide your name and individual email address We need one email address per person jgourley@watersedgecountryclub com
In January or February
MarkYourCalendar!
BIRTHDAY NIGHT
Thursday, January 16th
Thursday, February 20th
FOOTLOOSE FRIDAY
Friday, January 17th
Friday, February 21st
MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR
Friday, January 10th
Friday, February 7th
Trivia Night
Thursday, January 23rd
Lunch with Chef John
Thursday, January 30th
WINE TASTING
Friday, February 6th | 5:00pm
SWEETHEART DINNER & DANCE
Friday, February 14th
NO YOGA
January or February - check weekly happenings for possible updates
UPCOMING EVENTS UPCOMING EVENTS
MeetYourNeighbor
FRIDAY, JANUARY 10TH | 6:00 - 9:00 PM
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7TH | 6:00 - 9:00 PM
All members are invited to our most popular social event This is a great chance to get to “Meet Your Neighbor”. This event begins at 6:00pm with cocktails in the Eastroom Lounge. Light hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Join us for a great buffet afterwards.
Be sure to make your reservations early Reservations can be made online, through the McConnell Golf app, or by calling the club at 540-576-1556.
Footloose Friday
THURSDAY, JANUARY 23RD | STARTING AT 6:30 PM
Join us for a fun night of trivia! Put your knowledge to the test, show off your trivia skills, and enjoy some great company. Whether you're a trivia buff or just looking for a good time, everyone is welcome! You can sign up for teams of 2-6 people or we can place you with another team We will keep the score and have prizes for the top three teams
FRIDAY, JANUARY 17TH | 7:00 - 10:00PM MUSIC WITH JASON HOSTETTER FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21ST | 7:00 - 10:00PM MUSIC WITH RYAN GREER
Come join us for Footloose Friday! Kick up your heels and enjoy live music and your favorite cocktails. Please note that we will not be reserving bar seating this evening & do not plan to serve food in the bar. Please make reservations if you plan to join us for dinner.
WATER’S EDGE PASTABILITIES ON BIRTHDAY NIGHT
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16TH | 5:00 - 8:00PM
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20TH | 5:00 - 8:00PM
Join us for Pasta Night and enjoy a variety of buffet selections with build your own salad, chef-attended pasta station, and our sweet treats table.
Come celebrate your birthday with us!
Any member with a birthday in November or December is invited to enjoy Water’s Edge Pastabilities as our guest! The complimentary dinner will only be awarded to the member who is celebrating his/her birthday that particular month
Please make sure your birthday (including the year) appears on your profile to qualify for complimentary dinner
Reservations are required and can be made online, through the McConnell Golf app, or by calling the club at 540-576-1556
Please note that this will be the only dining option on these dates.
PERFECTLY PAIRED WINE CLUB
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP | $150
INCLUDES:
-20% off bottles of wine from our wine list
-20% over cost on special-ordered bottles
-20% off Wine Dinners
-Waived corkage fee in the dining room
-Water’s Edge logo wine carrier
-Early registration for wine dinners and wine tasting
WINE TASTING - THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6TH | 5:00 PM
UPCOMING EVENTS
HappyValentine’sDay
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the Water’s Edge Country Club on Friday, February 14th. A special romantic dinner will be prepared by our culinary staff. Live music with Black Water.
Please make your reservations via signing up on the event on the club website or call the club at 540-576-1556
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14TH | STARTING AT 6:00 PM
Thoughtful ways to express love on Valentine’s Day
Write a Love Letter: Pour your feelings onto paper with a handwritten note or card expressing what your partner means to you.
Plan a Surprise Date: Organize a unique outing, like stargazing, a scenic hike, or a cozy evening at home with their favorite movie and snacks
Cook a Special Meal: Prepare their favorite dish or try a new recipe together for a romantic dinner at home
Recreate Your First Date: Relive the magic by revisiting the place where it all began or recreating a special memory from early in your relationship.
Give a Meaningful Gift: Personalized items like custom jewelry, photo albums, or engraved keepsakes show extra thought.
Share a Playlist: Create a playlist of songs that remind you of them or tell your love story through music. Plan a Future Adventure: Gift tickets or make plans for a trip or experience they’ve always wanted to try.
LUNCH WITH THE CHEF
THURSDAY, JANUARY 30TH | STARTING AT 12:30 PM
Join us for a cooking demonstration with Chef John Hanek. This is the perfect way to enjoy great food, wonderful company, and warm conversations as we look ahead to another fantastic year. Whether you're a foodie or simply love gathering with friends, this is an event you won’t want to miss!
Make reservations today!
November 2024
EmployeeoftheMonth ClubNews
Stephanie Wilkerson joined our team at The Water's Edge in May 2021 She was previously voted Employee of the Month for March 2023 and in November 2024 Stephanie is our Golf Shop Assistant She does a great job displaying the merchandise that we offer to our members Stephanie previously worked for The Willard Companies for two years and also had a long career at Advance Auto. Stephanie is a mother of one. Ryan is a Senior at George Mason University and was previously a lifeguard at the club. In her spare time, she provides dog walking services in the Water’s Edge community and is a caregiver for her Mother.
December2024
Gary Husmann was voted Employee of the Month for December 2024 Gary lives in Penhook and joined our culinary staff in April of 2024 He is currently working as a maintenance man Previously, he was a CNA in California Gary has seven children; two daughters and five boys Their ages range from 8 to 35 In his spare time, Gary enjoys fishing with his son
EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR 2024
It’s with great excitement and pride that we announce our Employees of the Year for 2024: Jasmine Davis-Hill and George Hill. Both have consistently demonstrated excellence, dedication, and an inspiring commitment to McConnell Golf Their exceptional contributions over the past year have made a lasting impact on our team and organization Their hard work does not go unnoticed, and this recognition is well-deserved Thank you for being such an integral part of our success!
ClubNews ClubNews
Canasta Fridays
If you are interested in joining the group or have any questions, please email Jennifer DiMare at jkdimare@aol.com
The Lake Bloomers The Lake Bloomers
THURSDAY, JAN 16TH AT 10:00AM
Ray DelCampo will give a talk on “Growing Up In Cuba”
WEDNESDAY FEB 12TH AT 10:00 AM
Gary Lynch and his beekeeper, Chuck Huto, will give a talk on, “Honeybees and Gardens that Attract Our Pollinators”
WEDNESDAY MARCH 12TH AT 10:00 AM
Lee Jankus will speak on “Native Plants, Deer Deterrents and Allergy Plantings”
THURSDAY APRIL 17TH AT 10:00 AM
Seven Oaks Landscape/Hardscape will give a demonstration on “Growing Herbs in the Garden/Pots”
Come out and play to challenge yourself and others with strategy and skill while having lots of fun! BRIDGE
Come try your hand at a classic Puzzle game that provides hours of entertainment MAHJONG
BOOK CLUB
Cup & Chaucer Book Club
Happy readers since 1995 Meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 9:30 AM except for January, February, July and August. Currently at full capacity of 16; however, if interested, please text to be put on the waiting list. Contact: Susan Henry 540-834-8322 henryduo2@hotmail.com
1ST ANNUAL CHILI COOKOFF & CAR SHOW PHOTOS
The humane society came out to join the fun! The event raised $3,503 for the shelter! And, provided lots of food and other supplies for our shelter In addition, one of the dogs present was adopted!
Lindsay Gordon’s Mustang won our People’s Choice award
Brian Andrews won the People’s Choice award for his chili
Ugly Sweater Winners
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
Rebecca Keil, Executive Pastry Chef at Porters Neck Country Club
““From a young age, I fell in love with the sweet, buttery, chewy texture of Coconut Macaroons The simplicity of the recipe combined with the complexity of the flavor, including the toasted coconut, makes this a small bite for anyone to enjoy I find it best in the winter months, sitting by a fire, enjoying a hot cup of cocoa, snuggled up in a blanket Happy New Year!” - Rebecca Keil
Coconut Macaroons
Ingredients
14 ounces
14
3
1 teaspoon almond extract
Directions
Mix all ingredients together. 1. Scoop out cookies and bake at 325 for about 12-14 minutes, till golden brown. 2.
Once cooled, drizzle the cookies with melted dark chocolate, let the chocolate set, then serve 3
FEBRUARY COOKIE OF THE MONTH
Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
Recipe by Kenric Hunt, Executive Chef at Brook Valley Country Club
“You would never guess that these chocolate chip cookies are gluten free They’re soft and chewy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and loaded with chocolate chips!” - Kenric Hunt
Directions
Whisk together the flour, oat flour, baking soda, and salt and set aside
Ingredients
1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup (110g) dark brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or 2 tsp vanilla extract)
1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
1 cup + 1 tablespoon (150g) gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum (I recommend this one)
1/2 cup (60g) oat flour* SEE NOTES
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (80g) bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup (160g) semisweet chocolate chips + a handful more for sprinkling
Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Cream together the melted butter and sugars until it turns into a paste-like consistency (mix on medium-high speed with the paddle attachment for 3-5 minutes)
Mix in the vanilla and eggs until smooth Scrape down the bowl and mix again
Mix in the dry ingredients Once combined, fold in the chocolate
Use a large cookie scoop and scoop the cookie dough side by side on a small tray lined with wax paper You should have 15-16 cookies
Dot the tops with a few more chocolate chips and place in the fridge for at least 2 hours
Once chilled, bake at 375°F on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper (do not use a Silpat)
Bake 5-6 cookies at a time for 10-12 minutes They should be lightly golden around the edges and puffed/doughy in the center
Right when you take them out of the oven, quickly push in the sides of the cookies using the inside curve of a fork (see picture in post). They’ll spread quite a bit, so pushing in the sides to form perfectly round cookies gives you wrinkly and crispy edges.
Sprinkle the tops with a little flaky sea salt and transfer to a cooling rack.
Allow them to cool for about 15 minutes, then dig in! Yields 15-16 cookies.
NOTES: Oat flour is preferred, but almond flour can also be used Add an additional tablespoon of the all-purpose gluten-free flour when using almond flour
WE buzz
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Schwend Good job, ladies, making some incredible Thanksgiving creations
Kathleen Hetzler Riordan Monday sunset from Little Bull Run
Kathie
MCCONNELL GOLF TO HOST BACK-TO-BACK KORN FERRY TOUR EVENTS AGAIN IN 2025
McConnell Golf properties will once again host Korn Ferry Tour events in consecutive weeks when the Visit Knoxville Open and UNC Health Championship showcase the game’s rising stars Visit Knoxville Open, which as been contested every season since the Korn Ferry Tour’s establishment in 1990 will run from May 22 25 at Holston Hills Country Club UNC Health Championship will take place at Raleigh Country Club for : https://www youtube com/watch?v=qhrFFPg0qrk
SHARE YOUR STORY IN THE SPRING/SUMMER ISSUE OF MCCONNELL GOLF, THE MAGAZINE
2025 GOLF SCHEDULE BOOKLET COMING SOON
We want to hear from you! Share your most memorable moments from the course, courts, or clubhouses across McConnell Golf for a chance to be featured in the upcoming Spring/Summer issue of McConnell Golf, The Magazine Whether it's a tournament triumph, family tradition, or unforgettable trip, your stories are what bring our magazine to life If you have an interesting story to share with us, contact Communications Director, Faith Inman at finman@mcconnellgolf.com for a chance to be featured in our next edition.
Hitting your mailboxes in January, the 2025 McConnell Golf schedule booklet features all the information you need to get ready for the upcoming golf season From club tournament dates to pro shop hours and instructional lesson rates, you’ll have a compact guide right at your fingertips. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, stay in the loop with a calendar that will take the hassle out of planning your next golf adventure.
