Smoke Signals
March 2025
FROM THE DESK OF THE GENERAL MANAGER
BY BRIAN DARLAK,CCM
Great to see so many of you active in the programs this OffSeason!
Drinks & Drills, Yacht Club Seminars, and Indoor Golf Clinics have had great attendance. Along with these regular winter programs, the Racquet Open House and Open Putting Clinic were also held with fantastic turnouts! A quick reminder: you do not have to be a member of the Racquet or Golf programs to participate in events. Many of these events are open to ALL Indian Creek members—you’ll just pay the appropriate fee based on your program subscription.
In preparation for the upcoming season and beyond, we’re excited to announce that the conversion of the Ladies Room to a Family Accessible Restroom is complete! This facility will allow mixed company to use the restroom more conveniently while visiting the Club.
By early March, we will also have the new Golf Bag Storage System in place. This upgrade will increase total storage by more than 40%, making it easier for more members to store their golf clubs here—no need to worry about squeezing them into your car’s trunk!
Lastly, for those of you like me who enjoy the snow—but only to a point—I’m looking forward to more time outdoors as the season shifts. I can’t wait to see the campus come alive with bright blossoms and lush greenery.
What’s the buzz?
Below is feedback from the last several weeks of dining comments submitted:
“Superb!”
“Delicious, hot, great variety - Tastes like “home”!”
“New lunch menu’s diversity is wonderful”
“Excellent evening! Congrats to the staff and chef!”
“Service was great”
“A great club experience”
“Everything was great!”
What we are continuing to focus on: Consistency For individual members who commented on items being a different size or too much/not enough flavor, we hear you and we are working to make your experience mirror those above!
Specials Now Available For An Additional Week!
Starting March 5th, we are updating the frequency of our lunch and dinner specials to enhance consistency, quality, and efficiency. Instead of changing weekly, new specials will now be introduced biweekly. This adjustment allows our culinary team to refine each dish while streamlining kitchen operations, ensuring the best possible dining experience for our guests.
We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you in the dining room soon!
March 2025
SOCIAL
MARCH 6
Dinner/Speaker Event with Member Al Ross “Adapting to the Flames”
MARCH 7 1/2 Off Drinks All Evening!
First Friday with Live Music with Something Different
MARCH 12 Club Mah Jongg
MARCH 15
St. Patrick’s Day Themed Dinner
MARCH 18 Bunco
MARCH 20
MARCH 29
MARCH 30
GOLF
Wine Club Gourmet Dinner: Spanish Food & Wines
A Mystery In Tuscany (Author & Wine Event)
Sunday Brunch Buffet, 11am-2pm
MARCH 15 Bourbon Scramble
MARCH 17/18 Course Closed for Aerification
MARCH 27 9-Hole WGA Opening Luncheon & Meeting
RACQUET
MARCH 16
YACHT
MARCH 8
St. Patrick’s Day Racquet Social
Yacht Club Seminar: Medical Emergencies Afloat
MARCH 21 Sock Burning - An Annual Tradition!
MEMBERSHIP MATTERS
by Megan Stephens, Membership Director
Spring at the Club:
A Season for Friends, Fresh Starts, and Togetherness
As the days grow longer and the air fills with the promise of spring, there’s no better time to embrace the beauty of the season at the Club. Spring is a time of renewal, a fresh start, and an opportunity to reconnect with friends old and new.
At the Club, we celebrate the energy and warmth that spring brings by offering a variety of opportunities to gather, share experiences, and make lasting memories. Whether it’s a leisurely brunch on the terrace, a friendly round of golf, or an evening of fine dining and laughter, the season is best enjoyed together.
A Time for Reconnection
Spring is a reminder to slow down and savor moments with those who matter most. After months of hibernation, we welcome the return of outdoor gatherings, al fresco dining, and lively social events that bring our community closer It’s the perfect season to rekindle friendships, meet new members, and enjoy the camaraderie that makes our club so special.
Fresh Flavors & Seasonal Delights
With spring comes an abundance of fresh, vibrant flavors. Our culinary team is delighted to bring you seasonal dishes that highlight the best of the season crisp greens, bright citrus, and expertly paired wines that enhance every bite. From elegant wine dinners to casual patio lunches, there’s something to savor at every turn
Celebrate the Season Together
As we step into spring, let’s embrace the beauty of nature, the joy of friendship, and the spirit of togetherness. Whether y ’ j i friendly match on the courts, a scenic walk on the gr new beginnings, the Club is here to make every mom
Come celebrate spring with us where friendships b are made, and the best days are always spent togeth
If you joined ICYCC in the last year and you share the Club by bringing in a new member during your first year of membership, you’ll receive a $1000 referral credit once they complete the application and approval process!
Matt Byrne & Kate Markoski
Children: James & Maisie
Alex & Katherine Jung
Let’s give them a warm ICYCC Welcome!
Reminder:
If you are dining and see a blue napkin, stop and say hello and welcome our newest club family members!
Drills & Drinks Group, February 12th
SPEAKEREVENT WITHALROSS
ADAPTINGTOTHEFLAME ChangingFireBehaviors
rtankerIndustry
6, 2025
ar Opens
pecial Presentation
er to Follow
ER ON THE CALENDAR
Before he and Marcy settled full-time in the Northern Neck, Al Ross built an impressive career in the aerial firefighting industry. Over a span of 25 years, he held key leadership roles, including serving as Director of Washington Operations for Aero Union Corporation, a leading company in the industry. He also worked as a lobbyist for Erickson Aero Air and served as Executive Director of the American Airtanker Operators Council. Additionally, he was a co-owner of Firebird LLC, an airtanker operating company based in Chico, California.
With wildland fires, particularly in Los Angeles, drawing national attention, Al will share his insights on the changing behavior of fires and how the large airtanker industry has evolved to address the growing challenges posed by climate change.
SOMETHING DIFFERENT DUO First Friday Featuring
SAT 15 MARCH 2025
FEATURED MENU
IRISH SALAD BAR
GUINNESS BEER CHEESE & PRETZEL BITES
CORNED BEEF & CABBAGE
BOILED POTATOES & CARROTS
LAMB & BEEF SHEPHERD’S PIE
IRISH SODA BREAD
IRISH CREAM CHEESECAKE
MINT BROWNIES
5:00-8:30PM
$33 PER PERSON ++
SpanishWinesand GourmetFareof
Join us for an unforgettable Spanish Gourmet Wine Dinner, featuring expertly curated wine pairings by Amy Britt of Specials Wine Sellar. Indulge in a thoughtfully crafted menu that showcases the bold and vibrant flavors of Spain, perfectly complemented by exceptional Spanish wines.
Limited seating available reserve your spot today!
ANight with the Author
JOIN US FOR AN ENCHANTING EVENING: “A MYSTERY IN TUSCANY”
FREESIGNING
SATURDAY, MARCH 29
5:00 P.M.
Step into the heart of Tuscany for an intimate evening of storytelling, fine wine, and cultural exploration. “A Mystery in Tuscany” invites you to immerse yourself in the magic of Italian culture with a captivating discourse from author Richard P. Wenzel, who will share insights into his novel, The Writer in Tuscany.
Complementing this literary journey is an exploration of Tuscan wines, expertly presented by a renowned Tuscan wine connoisseur.
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE NIGHT OF WINE, WORDS, AND WONDER!
Small plates and wine served with each Act Limit to the First 40 ppl Registered
$60 PP ++
R I C H A R D P . W E N Z E L
ORDER YOUR BOOK ON AMAZON OR BARNES & NOBLE TODAY!
COMMODORE’S CORNER
ByBobYoung,Commodore
The Super Bowl is in the books and the the start of boating season is still several months away, the Dark Ages are officially upon us. One way to avoid them is to take your boat south next fall. If you attended our last training session, you already have a head start on your trip planning. If you missed it check on the club’s website for the library of educational seminars (Yachting > Lecture Series). Those of you not ready to make the trip all to the way Bahamas, think about going as far as Florida. Even if you just get as far as Charleston you can probably get by without winterizing your boat. That is what Joy and I did last winter and we really enjoyed it.
Our next training session in March promises to be a very informative session. Gary Samuels, a paramedic and long time EMS instructor, will discuss first aid afloat. A few precautions and a little preparation can go along way in ensuring that you and your crew stay safe next summer while enjoying boating on the Bay.
I would like to make another pitch for everyone to update your information in the yacht club roster. There is a link next to this article that will walk you through this process. Getting this information updated will assist cruise leaders in setting up slip
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
MEDICAL
EMERGENCIES AFLOAT
GARY SAMUELS
EMS Outreach Coordinator
Rappahannock General Hospital
It’s a beautiful day offshore, then suddenly it’s terrifying. You or your crew have a serious medical emergency.
How do you react quickly to help assure the best possible outcome?
This is a presentation you won’t want to miss.
Saturday, March 8
9:00AM COFFEE AND EGG MUFFIN 9:30AM PRESENTATION BEGINS
Life-Saving Topics:
Common boating injuries that arrive in the Emergency Room CPR – what you can do with or without a defibrillator aboard Handling a fall, a potential broken bone or severe sprain Treating severe lacerations & bleeding Man overboard! Getting an injured victim back aboard your boat
Treating motion sickness
What should be in your First Aid Kit
This event is sponsored by the Yacht Club, but is open to all ICYCC members. YC Members - FREE / Non-YC Members - $10
GOLF NEWS
By Andrew Geesey, PGA Professional
Upcoming Ladies Spring Clinics
March 14, 21,28
12:30 - 1:30pm- $10 per person per week.
Putting Week 1, Short Game Week 2, Full Swing Week 3
DEMO DAY COBRA GOLF
APRIL 5 9AM TO 11AM
Winter Indoor Clinic Recap - This winter has been a great time to keep your game sharp for the spring! From a sold out indoor putting class with over 40 participants to indoor full swing clinics in the racquet center, players worked on all fundamentals and improving contact for the upcoming season. Thank you to all who participated.
Red Tee/ Orange Tee - This note is to update you on changes to orange tees in 2025. The red/ orange tee will replace the orange tee selection and are being added to the scorecard for the spring. On this new card there will also be arrows pointing to the tee being used on the hole The area you tee off at is not changing, but the name is changing. The red/ orange tee has been a combination of tees previously named the “orange tee”. Changing the name gives a better description of the tee, due to it being a combo tee. Eight holes are played from the red/orange tee and ten are played from the orange tee. The hole breakdown is as follow
30-MINUTE SLOTS CONTACT THE PRO SHOP TO SIGN UP
PLAYING IN THE OPENING DAY TOURNAMENT? WALKUPS AVAILABLE FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS FROM 11AM-12PM
MAJOR GOLF EVENTS
CLICK HERE TO VIEW
RED/ORANGE: HOLES
#1 #2 #4 #5 #6 #11 #16 #18
ORANGE: #3 #7 #8 #9 #10 #12 #13 #14 #15 #17.
New Men’s Leagues for 2025:
Wednesday Morning Men's League. Three rotating formats that change weekly including better ball, stableford, and one gross/one net. Teams are formed via ABCD. $5 per person weekly
Thursday Evening Men’s Partner League - Two-man teams will enjoy friendly competition and a social atmosphere both on and off the course. The league will operate for 12 weeks with a 3-week post-season. Players are encouraged to socialize in the Skipjack after their round Season starts April 24th CLICK FOR COMPLETE DETAILS
and Option to play one tee forward on one hole
Handicap 10-19: Two Mulligans and Option to play one tee forward on two holes
Handicap 20+: Three Mulligans and Option to play one tee forward on three holes
$15 ENTRY FEE
OPENING DAY MIXED SCRAMBLE
APRIL 5TH 12:00 P.M. SHOTGUN START
$25 PER PERSON ENTRY FEE REGISTER NOW
REGISTRATION DEADLINE
APRIL 3 @ 5:00PM
OPTIONAL COBRA GOLF DEMO DA 11AM - 12:00PM
REGISTRATION DEADLINE
APRIL 11TH @ 5:00PM
ALL PLAYERS WILL PLAY THE YELLOW TEE.
WINNER WILL RECEIVE A ICYCC GREEN JACKET
Turf Talk
ByPeteStephens,CGCS
Preparing the Course for Spring
As we transition into the new season, our team has been working diligentl to enhance course conditions and improve overall playability. Tree maintenance has been a major focus, with the removal of several trees behind the 13th green to increase sunlight exposure and promote healthier turf. Additionally, storm cleanup on the 16th hole included the removal of a fallen tree and limb pruning to improve ball flight and sight lines We will continue to assess tree maintenance and health to ensure a balance between aesthetics, playability, and agronomic needs.
Several course enhancements have also been completed, including the repainting of red tee markers half red and half orange, the orange color is the new color marking for the nine hole ladies, and the raising of the height of stop signs and “Golfers Only” signage Work continues on the equipment storage shelter, which will provide more efficient space for maintenance operations once fully completed. Turf management remains a top priority, with pre-emergent herbicide applications finished on tees and fairways and ongoing work in the roughs to suppress early weed growth. Additionally, soil samples are being collected to help guide fertilization plans while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations
Looking ahead, bunker renovations remain a key area of focus. We look for your feedback on the three renovated bunkers, as discussions are ongoing regarding the best approach for improvements. Staff training will begin later this month to prepare for the busy season, and outdoor lighting installations are scheduled to commence soon With fluctuating weather patterns impacting turf conditions, we are closely monitoring course health and adjusting maintenance practices as needed. As always, we appreciate your support and feedback as we continue working to enhance the playing experience.
Looking forward to seeing everyone out on the course!
Spring Start-Up Tips For Homewners
March is the time to apply pre-emergent for crabgrass control. Make your first application in March and your second application in late April/Early May for best control.
Fertilizing? Be sure to choose a low nitrogen blend. Some even come with the pre-emergent mixed in for easy application.
To overseed or not to overseed? I am personally not a fan of spring overseeding. The roots don’t have enough time to establish enough to withstand the summer heat and stresses Fall is a much better option to overseed cool season grasses
What’s The Racquet
ByGeorgeChristoforatos, USPTA,PTR
WEEKLY PLAY
Monday
Cardio Tennis 8:00 AM-9:00 AM
Pickleball for Intermediate Players 2:00 PM3:00 PM (Workout)
Open Pickleball and Spec Tennis Play 2:00 PM-4:00 PM
Pickleball for Beginners 3:00 PM-4:00 PM
Tuesday
Cardio Tennis 8:00 AM-9:00 AM
Stretching Class for all members 2:00 PM-3:15 PM
Wednesday
Spec Tennis (Open Play) 11:00 AM-12:30 PM
Played on Pickleball courts with Orange Dot ball - California Craz
Tennis Drills and Drinks 4:30 PM-6:00 PM
Drills and Drinks Clinic Only: $1000, Please register if you plan on staying for Drinks and Dinner at the Club.
Thursday
Cardio Tennis 8:00 AM-9:00 AM
Open Pickleball and Spec Tennis Play 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Pickleball Dinks & Drinks 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Friday
Spec Tennis for Beginners 11:00AM-12 Noon
Spec Tennis (Open Play) 11:00 AM-12:30 PM
Played on Pickleball courts with Orange Dot ball - California Craze
Saturday
Tennis Ladies Doubles 10:00 AM-11:30 AM
Doubles fun play 10am to 1130am
Tennis Men's 40 and up Round Robin
Doubles 11:30 AM-1:00 PM
Men's 4.0 and up Round Robin Doubles, must be a 4.0 or higher to play 11:30am to 1pm, limited to the first 8 that sign up
Sunday
Open Pickleball and Spec Tennis Play 2:00 PM-4:00 PM
All players must register and sign in at the Kiosk
Ladies Double - All Levels 4:00 PM-6:00 PM
Limited to the first 8 that sign up - There is a wait list, so please sign up
Food & Beverage
