OFF THE TEE
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Dear Members,
I hope everyone had an enjoyable winter and is looking forward to another fantastic year at Fresh Meadow Country Club!
As we kick off the season, I’d like to welcome everyone back and share some updates on the exciting work completed over the winter, as well as what you can look forward to this summer.
Club Improvements
STEVE MARVIN
Ed and his team have worked diligently behind the scenes to freshen up the clubhouse and various areas of the club. He also made enhancements to the staff guest rooms and hallways which have made a meaningful impact. A huge thank you to Carlos and his team for executing these projects.
Golf Course Enhancements
On the course, Joe and his team have completed the bunker renovation project. The bunkers are not only the best we've ever had—they also create a striking visual impression as you arrive at the club. Additional improvements include the completion of the 15th green and tee box, and the 2nd tee box which will be opening soon. If you haven’t had a chance to play yet, you’re in for a treat—the transformation is remarkable. We’ve also cleared additional trees along the left side of the 14th hole, which now opens up a stunning view from the 14th tee through to the 15th and 16th holes.
Clubhouse and Dining Updates
Inside the clubhouse, we’ve refreshed the buffet layout, including relocating the salad bar to improve flow and functionality. This change has already received very positive feedback from members.
Pool and Recreation
Preparations at the pool are well underway. This summer, we’re excited to have our own FMCC lifeguards, along with an enhanced food and beverage program. Cesar will be overseeing these upgrades, and we look
forward to an outstanding season by the pool.
Golf Shop and Services
Danny and his team have the Pro Shop fully stocked, with new arrivals each week. The shop looks fantastic, and the team is available for lessons and practice sessions at the lower range. It’s a great time to get your game ready! Doug and his team continue to ensure smooth operations and efficient tee time management, helping deliver a seamless experience for all our players.
Clubhouse Renovation Project
I’m especially excited to update you on our clubhouse renovation project. Over the winter, we selected both an architect and a project manager, who are now collaborating closely with our design firm. We anticipate presenting the full scope, renderings, and a detailed proposal to the membership during the summer. This project represents a transformational moment for Fresh Meadow; our first major renovation in 20 years, and is key to maintaining the exceptional experience our members expect.
It is truly an honor to serve as your President. I’d like to sincerely thank the Board of Governors for their continued dedication and hard work.
We currently have a few membership openings available. If you know of someone who might be a great addition to our community, please reach out to Howard Hershenhorn at hsh1234@gmail.com.
I look forward to seeing you and your families at the club and to another incredible year together.
Warm regards,
Steve Marvin President
GENERAL MANAGER'S MESSAGE
Dear Fresh Meadow Members,
Welcome back to another great season at Fresh Meadow! Whether you’re returning from warmer climates or have been enjoying the club during the off-season, the team and I are glad to have you here as we dive into a fun-filled summer. Fresh Meadow continues to grow with new members but also in spirit. We’re proud of the community and our evolving club. It is a special place to play golf, enjoy the new bunkers, play cards, play tennis or pickle ball and to relax. Enjoy good food, events, social interactions. That makes Fresh Meadow Country Club the special club it is.
EDWARD G. LEONARD
racquetball socials, family activities, and more. There’s something for everyone, and we can’t wait to see you out there enjoying it all.
At the heart of our season is our International Team, whose presence is essential not only here at Fresh Meadow but at all clubs both north and south. Their contributions make the level of service we deliver possible during season.
We’ve made some exciting updates to kick off the season. I’m happy to introduce Greg Sicard, our new Food and Beverage Director, who’s already bringing fresh ideas, leadership and energy to the members’ dining experience. If you haven’t seen it yet, our Grill Room buffet has a brand-new look. We have introduced skillet lunches and egg skillets at brunch from our new oven along with Naple’s style pizza, a new look salad bar, pastry selection, and ice cream machines for that perfect sweet treat.
We’ve expanded the Grill Room experience with new outdoor seating and stylish umbrellas, giving you the perfect spot to enjoy your meal with a side of sunshine. Our Friday night dinners continue to showcase the finest steaks, chops, and fresh seafood, along with chef-curated specialty nights that bring global flavors and creative culinary experiences to your table.
And that’s just the beginning. Our summer lineup is packed with events—from lobster bakes, entertainment nights, pop-up restaurant nights to tennis and
While golf remains at the core of who we are, Fresh Meadow Country Club is a full lifestyle club. It blends tradition with new ideas and a fresh energy you can feel throughout the property. We will soon unveil the vision for the Club’s future, we’re continuing to push forward while keeping what makes this place special close to heart. My commitment is to make every day at your club a special day with a strong foundation of hospitality that when you leave you are already looking forward to coming back.
At the heart of our season is our International Team, whose presence is essential not only here at Fresh Meadow but at all clubs both north and south. Their contributions make the level of service we deliver possible during season. They will go through training and become immersed in the culture and expectations that define the Fresh Meadow experience. We invite you to visit the International Team page in Off the Tee and get to know the individuals who help make this busy season such a success.
Thank you for being a part of the Fresh Meadow family. Your energy, feedback, and support are what drive us forward every day. Here’s a season full of great times together.
Look forward to seeing everyone at the club,
Edward G. Léonard, CMC General Manager / COO
ASSISTANT MANAGER'S MESSAGE
Dear Members,
It's hard to believe that just a few short months ago we were bundled in winter coats, gazing out at a quiet, dormant landscape. Today, with spring in full bloom, the golf course is vibrant with color and activity. Our new bunkers stand out, and the entire Club is once again brimming with energy, laughter, which is most evident in the Grill room during lunch, brunch and dinners.
As always, our focus remains on elevating the member experience and enhancing everything we offer. This season, we're proud to share that Fresh Meadow has officially assumed full management of our pool operations. This important shift means our team of lifeguards now reports directly to FMCC, allowing us to ensure a higher level of service, attentiveness, and overall member care.
We've also invested in brand-new pool equipment to maintain exceptional water quality, and our General Manager has curated a refreshed, delicious poolside menu that we’re excited for you to enjoy. We’re also pleased to welcome back Kate Tan Pian from Hunter’s Run, whose warmth and professionalism have become a welcome presence at the pool. With the addition of new umbrellas and thoughtful touches, your time by the water is sure to be more enjoyable than ever. On the courts, tennis and pickleball are thriving. Complimentary clinics are ongoing, and our talented pros are always available for lessons or just a casual hit whether you're looking to sharpen your game or simply have some fun.
We're equally excited to welcome Greg Sicard, our new Director of Food and Beverage, to the management team. Greg brings fresh perspective, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to staff development and elevated service. His arrival strengthens our mission to continually raise the bar across all departments and be an asset the Ed and myself.
Of course, none of this progress would be possible without the extraordinary people who make up our team. From the leadership, relentless vision and guidance of our General Manager to the talents of our Culinary Team Chefs Philip, Oshaine, Sowen and Alejandra each person contributes meaningfully to the FMCC experience. Our dedicated supervisors, Chelka, Ibrahim, Yegen, Kate, Rosi, Jose, Mauricio, and Carlos, continue to lead by example, helping bring our shared vision to life every day.
At Fresh Meadow Country Club, teamwork is our foundation. It’s through our shared dedication, care, and professionalism that we continue to grow stronger, evolve meaningfully, and deliver the service and community spirit that define Fresh Meadow Country Club and our key word “Hospitality”. Here’s another memorable season — one we’ll enjoy together.
Warm regards,
Cesar Carrillo Assistant General Manager
CESAR CARRILLO
Internationals 2025
GOLF MESSAGE
The 2025 Golf Season is off to a hot start. The weather has been getting better every week, the golf course is in wonderful shape, and our new 15 hole is spectacular. Our new 2nd tee complex is also open, and we have heard amazingly great reviews from all our members who have played.
We would like to welcome all new members to our Fresh Meadow Family and welcome back our Florida members. The game of GOLF is booming around the world and golf here at Fresh Meadow is soaring. We look forward to seeing you all at the club soon.
2025 GOLF PROFESSIONAL STAFF
GOLF SHOP
Carol Joyce, our Golf Shop Manager, has returned for her 24th season at Fresh Meadow. She and her husband Tom have been soaking up the rays in South Florida, while also continuing to hone her expertise in merchandising by attending the PGA Merchandise Show and various other trade shows.
Beth Pughe, our Assistant Golf Shop Manager, will be returning for her 3rd full season at Fresh Meadow. Beth is another smiling face in the shop that can help with all your shopping needs.
Taylor Kahlman returns for his 2nd season as our Teaching Professional. Taylor was recently included in Golf Digest’s list of Best Teachers In New York State.
Ted Heins, our Lead Assistant, is returning for his 7th season at Fresh Meadow. Ted will again lead our Men’s Tournament Schedule. Ted’s excitement for growing the game and teaching the game over the last 6 years has recently paid off as he was also recently selected as Golf Digest’s Best Teachers In New York State.
Ben Franjione returns for his 4th season at Fresh Meadow. In 2022, 2023 and 2024, Ben qualified for the Long Island Open and the Metropolitan PGA Championship in the MET Section as well as representing Fresh Meadow the National Assistants Championship. Big things are on the horizon for this young star on and off the course.
Matt Rodriguez returns for his 2nd season at Fresh Meadow. Matt spent his winter attending the PGA teaching and coaching summit as well as working at The Old Collier Golf Club in Naples, Florida.
Ben Pollit started at Fresh Meadow 7 years ago as an H2B Visa intern. He will be working full- time on the Professional Golf Staff as an Assistant Golf Professional as he embarks on a career as a Golf Professional. Ben spent the winter working hard on his level 1 bookwork in hopes of earning his PGA of America Class A status in the near future.
STARTER/OUTSIDE OPERATIONS COORDINATOR
Doug Grant, Our Outside Operations Coordinator, is returning to Fresh Meadow for his 13th season. Doug proves year in and year out that he is one of our most valuable employees at the club. We are so excited to have Doug and his outside staff back this year. Harry Connelly will move into the Assistant Outside Operations Coordinator position for the 2025 season, once he returns from his winter position at Admirals Cove. Harry will become our afternoon starter along with his other responsibilities.
MEN’S AND LADIES’ TOURNAMENTS
Our Men’s Opening Day “THE RIB” Member/Member was a huge success. This was the first year for our new event with a 27-hole format. We had 104 players and had perfect weather which made for a great day.
The FMCC Cup and Al Arenson season long matchplay events are off and running. Please make sure you inform the Golf Shop once matches are completed and complete each match by the completion date.
Our Ladies Season kicked off on Tuesday, May 20th with our Opening Day Golf and Luncheon. We look forward to seeing all our ladies on the golf course soon.
Congrats to our Ladies WMGA Team for their great showings this season. Although we did not win this year, each lady showed up and gave it their all in each
DANNY BALIN
of their matches. All of us at the club should be so proud of our ladies for representing Fresh Meadow at the highest level in the Metropolitan area.
MEMBER/PROFESSIONAL AREA GOLF SUCCESS
Congrats Ben Mitchell. Ben recently won the Havemeyer Invitational Tournament hosted by Southward Ho Country Club. This event is an 18-hole stroke play qualifying for match play. Ben shot and impressive 2 under par 70 to be the lowest qualifier and the 2nd seed into match play. Ben beat the areas top amateurs throughout 5 matches to take home the title.
On May 13th, Ben Mitchell paired up with our Head Golf Professional Danny Balin at the Hoffhine Memorial hosted by Westchester Country Club. The format of the event is a combined stableford of partners. Danny and Ben beat all the top club professionals and club champions in the area to take home the Hoffhine Trophy.
On May 12th, Danny Balin was MEDALIST and low qualifier at the US OPEN Local qualifier at Connecticut Golf Club. Danny will compete in the US Open Sectional Round on June 2nd (the longest day in golf) at Canoe Brook Country Club in Summit, New Jersey in his quest to securing a spot in this years US OPEN at the historic Oakmont Counry Club.
TEE TIMES
Members can view the tee sheet under the ‘Tee Times’ tab on the FORETEES link that is attached to the Fresh Meadow app/website. Tee Times can be requested by contacting our Starter, Doug Grant, directly at douglas@freshmeadow.org or by text at (917) 375-7504 seven days in advance.
ALL TEE TIMES WILL BE OFF THE 1ST TEE Tee times throughout the year will be as follows:
APRIL - MAY: The first tee time will be 8:00 am (Times will be adjusted based on weather and demand).
JUNE - SEPTEMBER: The first tee time will be 6:45 am. OCTOBER - NOVEMBER: 8:00 am (Based on weather).
DECEMBER - MARCH: Based on course conditions. Please contact Doug Grant or check the golf course X feed.
SCORE POSTING FOR HANDICAP PURPOSES & TOURNAMENT PLAY:
The Sports and Handicap Committee expects all members to post all their scores on the day that their round was played.Please make sure to post your scores after your round. You must post all acceptable scores on the day played, as your handicap index will be calculated after the conclusion of play each day.
It is the responsibility of each player to post his or her score immediately after play. The Handicap Committee monitors score posting. The focus of the Handicap Committee will be to ensure fairness during club tournaments as it is our goal to ensure fairness and accuracy in the way golfers are handicapped, in order to protect the integrity of the way the game is played.
FORETEES
FORETEES is back for the 2025 season. Foretees is where you will find all things GOLF at Fresh Meadow. Men’s and Ladies Tournament Schedules, copy of the golf tee sheets, online lesson booking system, and online event sign-ups with fliers that include details of each event. Please stop by the shop if you need help accessing the Foretees platform.
LEARNING CENTER
The Fresh Meadow Learning Center is up and running and we are equipped with the most recent golf equipment and technology that golf has to offer. Please stop by and check out the latest and greatest and let one of the Professional Staff help you with all your fitting needs.
PRACTICE FACILITY
HOURS OF OPERATION:
1.Tuesday through Saturday - Sunrise to Sunset (Subject to change based on potential MaintenanceMembers will be informed by email)
2.Sunday - Closes at 5:00 p.m. to clean pick range so maintenance can mow on Mondays
RANGE/PRACTICE
BALLS:
Range/Practice balls are meant for the driving range and short game areas ONLY. It's a violation of club policy to take balls from the Practice Facilities.
LOWER RANGE
1. Always be mindful while driving to the facility and use caution if players are hitting their tee shot from the 17th tee or their approach to the 16th green.
2. Be aware of your speed while pulling into the parking area.
3. A cart path designed from special material was installed across the 16th fairway to help with drainage and water runoff as well as golf balls hitting the path. Rough has been installed to stop balls from rolling down the path.
4. Please use the parking spaces as indicated.
5. Be mindful of your tee time and leave the practice facility with ample time to arrive to the 1st tee for your tee time so that you do not hold up play.
SHORT GAME AREA
1. While using the short-game area, be mindful of fellow players when hitting shots.
2. Be mindful of the turf and spread your shots out by not hitting in the same spot.
3. Golf balls for the short game area can be picked up in the range hut. Please return the green bags to the hut when you are done practicing.
COURSE CARE IS NOT OPTIONAL
1.FILLING DIVOTS: Replace your divots on fairways and tees no matter the time of year. If the grass goes to pieces discard it into the rough rather than attempting to replace the divot with it. Use the mix provided on your cart to fill in the divot. The seed mix will germinate and fill in the divot over time.
2.REPAIRING BALL MARKS: Please repair your ball mark, and if you see another, fix it too. This is a simple courtesy that all golfers should adopt. Repairing ball marks help keep greens rolling smooth and true.
3.RAKING BUNKERS: All bunkers are supplied with at least two rakes. Please rake your footprints and after raking place the rake outside of the bunker where you originally found it.
4.WALKING IN AND OUT OF BUNKERS: Please do not walk up the face of abunker (the portion of the bunker that faces you)! Please exit the bunker at the rear, flat side, or a tongue to avoid damaging the face or potentially hurting yourself on a steep slope.
5.CART TRAFFIC: Please obey rope and stakes as well as other signage on the golf course. When you approach a green or tee please
park on the cart path. If you see a wear pattern, go in a different direction and drive your cart in the fairway instead of the rough. Doing so will preserve the rough in stressful times of the growing season. In addition, always keep carts a minimum of 40 feet from the greens.
Our new Weekly Update has been revamped to honor the history of Fresh Meadow Country Club. “THE DIVOT” which dates back to 1937, is a weekly update which includes upcoming golf events, important golf offerings and golf news from around the club. Be on the lookout each week for all golf related news.
The Golf Professional Staff is here to help with all your golfing needs. Please feel free to ask one of us if you have any questions or need any help with your golf game. Make sure to schedule your lessons through the online app or by calling the golf shop at (516) 482-7300.
Happy Golfing,
Danny Balin, Head Golf Professional dannyb@freshmeadow.org
LADIES' GOLF OPENING DAY
LADIES' GOLF OPENING DAY
LADIES' GOLF CHAIR MESSAGE
Welcome back for the 2025 season! We are looking forward to another season of fun, entertaining and enjoyable golf. Our outstanding golf professional staff, led by Danny, is back in full swing and looking forward to having us out for lessons, practice and games. By now you should have received the calendar of events, so please plan accordingly. It was great to see you at our Warm up Day on May 13th followed by Opening Day on May 20th.
We would also love for you to join us for Tuesday mornings either for 18 holes or for those who rather only play nine. Golf Clinics, Member Guest, Play with the Pros, and Ladies Night Out are just some of the highlights in store for you this summer.
Please let us know if you have any suggestions for our golf program. We are always looking for ways to improve our experiences at Fresh Meadow.
See you on the Tee!
Xoxo The Jens’ (Hoine and Menist)
Fresh Meadow Leads the Way — Again!
Our Babes Against Cancer committee has been honored with the Sandy Award in recognition of its outstanding dedication and leadership.
Fresh Meadow proudly raised a record-breaking amount to support the fight against breast and prostate cancer. A heartfelt thank you to all our members whose generosity and commitment made this achievement possible.
JEN HOINE
JEN MENIST
Where Does The Money Go?
Fresh Meadow Country Club proudly sponsors 3 rooms at the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in Manhattan. This $30,000 gift enables cancer patients and caregivers to live in this home away from home while receiving critical cancer treatments, free of charge. Hope Lodge has been home to residents from every state in the US and numerous countries across the globe.
In 1972 the American Cancer Society launched the Babes Against Cancer golf program and the members of Fresh Meadow Country Club have been chief supporters since the very beginning. Over $40 million total has been raised in the past 53 years, with over $4.2 million coming from FMCC alone-a truly incredible contribution!
In 2024, FMCC members provided over $250,000 towards prostate cancer research and breast cancer initiatives, such as early detection screenings, prevention education and research. Additionally, this critical funding provides cancer patients with rides to treatment, staffing for the 24/7 cancer support hotline and advocacy at every governmental level for the expansion of cancer care and cancer cost reduction measures.
At the 2023 Babes Against Cancer Kickoff Event, Dr. Clara Bodelon, Senior Principal Scientist with the American Cancer Society, shared her hopes to study survivorship factors of female cancers. This dream required financial backing and FMCC members answered the call. With $75,000 of designated funds, Dr. Bodelon’s research was launched, and findings were compiled in fall 2023 to assess the effects of treatments on physical health and quality of life improvement in survivors. The project will be submitted for publication soon and Fresh Meadow will be named as a sponsor of the research.
Thank you
Babe Committee 2025
INTRODUCING OUR HEAD TENNIS PROFESSIONAL, TEMUR
Temur is from Almaty, Kazakhstan. At age 15, he came to the USA to play at the Randy Mani Tennis Academy. He played for Division II Queens College. During his college tennis career, he helped the KNIGHTS reach the NCAA Sweet 16 three out of four years with the team. From QC, he also earned a Master of Arts in Urban Affairs. His coaching career began in 2011 working for Great Neck Estates Tennis. In 2015 he became the Assistant Tennis Director for Fresh Meadow Country Club. In 2019 he became the Head Tennis Professional for Fresh Meadow Country Club.
Dear Fresh Meadow Members,
Welcome back to racquet sports at Fresh Meadow Country Club. As always it is my honor to serve the members of this club for another season. Our beautiful pickleball courts and tennis courts are ready for some action. I would like to welcome back our wonderful pickleball pro Robin Witt and our superstar tennis assistant Gabriel Balestero.
The schedule this summer is eventful and we are excited to add additional days and times to our weekly racquet sports calendar:
PICKLEBALL (Ladies' and Men's)
Wednesday 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Thursday 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Saturday 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
TENNIS
Wednesday 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. (Ladies' drills)
Saturday 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (Kids' clinics)
Saturday 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. (Men’s drills)
MEMORIAL DAY GOLF
BULLETIN
Millie Rosenman became a Bat Mitzvah on January 3, 2025 in Armonk at Temple B’nai Yisrael. Daughter of Craig and Shira Rosenman. Proud grandparents are Martin and Ellen Rosenman.
Meet Layla Ann Dominich, she is the daughter of Daniel and Jamie Domnitch. Congratulations to the great grandparents Harold and Lorraine Domnitch and the grandparents Martin and Ellen Domnitch.
Jana and Jason Siegel would like to share that their daughter Sophie Eloise became a Bat Mitzvah on November 30. Proud grandparents are Dina and Steve Siegel.
Cheers to Cris: A Bittersweet Goodbye
We’re thrilled to share that our amazing Bar Manager, Cris Reyno, has been accepted into an elite nursing program! While we’re so proud of her next chapter, we’re sad to say goodbye. Cris’s last day was Sunday, May 11. Her warmth, creativity, and energy behind the bar will be deeply missed. Wishing her all the best on her path to becoming a superstar nurse!
BULLETIN
Samantha Citrin, daughter of Jessica and Steven Citrin and granddaughter of Peter and Linda Sherman, celebrated her Bat Mitzvah on March 1, 2025, at The Community Synagogue in Sands Point, New York.
Olivia Jane Weiner was borrn on October 19, 2024. Olivia is the daughter of members, Ali and Aaron Weiner and the granddaughter of members, Rick and Robin Reubenstone. Congratulations!
This January, Stephanie Cogan climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro with 30 hikers to support Shalva, an Israeli organization helping families with special needs. Together, they raised over 1 million shekels. Thanks to the amazing support from the Fresh Meadow community. Fresh Meadow was proudly represented all the way to the summit!
