The Creek News May 2025

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CREEK

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Hours of Operation

Golf Course

March 11th to March 31st

Michael Hughey

President

Dean Kramer

Vice President

John Venne

Treasurer

Erich Herkloz

Secretary

Scott Duman

Sean Fox

Kiel Gilliland

John Higgins

Thomas Koerner

Greg Markus

Chris Noyes

Tyler Prime

Tuesday to Friday 8:00 a.m. - Sunset

Saturday & Sunday

7:30 a.m. - Sunset

Pro Shop

Tuesday to Friday

7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday

7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Tennis

Courts are open for play

Dining

Pub & Bistro:

Tuesday thru Friday 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Sunday 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Pool & Oasis

Closed for the season

Joel Inman GENERAL

A Heartfelt Farewell

Dear Members,

After 14 truly rewarding years, I am writing to share the news of my resignation as General Manager of this incredible club. This decision was not made lightly, as this club has been more than just a place of work for me; it has been a home filled with remarkable people, unforgettable moments, and a community I will always cherish.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being part of countless experiences that have shaped both my professional and personal life. From memorable events to the everyday joys of seeing members enjoying the club, these moments have been deeply meaningful. What I treasure most, however, are the lifelong relationships that have been forged during my time here. The bonds I’ve built with so many of you will remain with me always.

It has been an honor to serve this club and to work alongside a team that is as dedicated and passionate as this one is. I leave with immense gratitude and pride in what we have accomplished together and I know the best is yet to come.

Please know that while I am stepping down from my official role, I remain a strong supporter of the club and its ongoing efforts. Thank you for the trust, support, and friendship you’ve shown me throughout the years.

With a heavy heart,

Patty Fagan

DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP

There’s nothing quite like May at Laurel Creek—warm sunshine, buzzing fairways, and the welcome return of our snowbirds from Florida (we missed you!). I love this time of year because it means Golf & Tennis are already in full swing, and it’s been wonderful to see the club bustling with activity and familiar faces all around.

Speaking of faces—have I seen yours yet? We recently sent an email asking for member photos so we can upload them to your profile. This helps our staff recognize and greet you by name, whether you’re on the green or in the Grille Room. Over 100 of you have already sent yours in (thank you!), but with more than 1,500 members and spouses… well, let’s just say I’ve got my work cut out for me. I may or may not have a bet going with Joel that I can complete the whole roster by the end of the year. Help me win eternal glory by emailing me your photo today!

In other exciting news, our 2025 Referral Program is off to a fantastic start! Members who sponsor a new family will receive a $1,000 credit toward their membership account. A dozen of you have already referred friends and colleagues, and it’s been wonderful to welcome so many new faces. While our Full Golf memberships are currently on a waitlist, we are still accepting new House and Social Members this year—so keep those referrals coming!

Finally, graduation season is upon us, and we’re so proud of our Laurel Creek kids! If you have a child graduating from high school or college, we’d love to celebrate their achievements in our June newsletter. Please send me their photo along with their future plans— whether it’s the college they’ll be attending or their post-grad adventures. Let’s give these young stars the spotlight they deserve! I’ll be around the club—and if I haven’t gotten your photo yet, consider yourself on my radar!

NEW MEMBERS

Joann and Andy Jaeger
The Blanche Family
The Straffi Family

Bob Hennefer

DIRECTOR OF GOLF

As we gear up for another exciting summer season at Laurel Creek, we want to update you on an important change regarding our Pro Shop pricing. As you may have read, the club as a whole is experiencing wholesale increases in products.

Beginning June 1st, prices on select products in our Pro Shop will be increasing. This adjustment is due to recent manufacturer cost increases and tariffs that have been imposed across the golf industry. While we always strive to keep prices as fair and competitive as possible for our membership, these external factors are unfortunately out of our control.

The items most affected by these increases include:

Custom

shafts

for golf clubs

Custom golf club orders from all major club manufacturers

Golf gloves

Golf balls

Golf bags

These products have seen significant cost escalations at the wholesale level, driven by rising manufacturing expenses, supply chain pressures, and newly imposed international tariffs. To maintain the exceptional quality of service and product offerings you expect from us, we are required to adjust our pricing accordingly once our summer shipments begin arriving.

Good News: There’s Still Time to Stock Up!

Until June 1st, all current inventory will remain at the existing pricing levels. This gives you a fantastic opportunity to stock up on essentials like gloves and golf balls or to finalize any custom club orders you may be considering before the new pricing takes effect.

Whether you’ve been thinking about adding a new wedge to your bag, ordering a custom driver with a premium shaft, or simply replenishing the supply of your favorite golf balls, we encourage you to take advantage of our current pricing over the next few weeks.

How We Are Supporting You

At Laurel Creek, we take pride in offering you premier products at competitive prices with personalized service that sets us apart. Even as manufacturers raise their costs, we are committed to working closely with our vendor partners to minimize the impact on you whenever possible. We also remain dedicated to offering a wide variety of products at different price points so that every golfer can find what they need to elevate their game.

If you have any questions or would like assistance selecting items before the adjustment takes place, our Pro Shop staff is ready to help! We appreciate your understanding and continued support as we work to navigate these industry-wide challenges while delivering the best possible service to our membership.

LCWGA

Welcome Spring!! Ladies Opening Day brought wintry weather but Laurel Creek ladies braved the elements to play in a Nine Hole Step-Back Scramble on Wednesday April 9th. Both Nine and Eighteen Holers were warmly greeted by our golf professionals and the year was kicked off with the theme of “May the Course be with You!” Brett and Matt kept us all warm by serving hot chocolate as we played so the cold and wind became (almost!!!) non existent. The round of play was followed by a wonderful lunch planned by Mary Heselton and Linda Angstreich, announcement of winners of the tournament and a general meeting led by president Susan Kaufman. First place at two over went to the team of Chrissy Duman, Lorraine Filimon, Julie Hunter and Janie Spitznagel. Second place went to the team of Christine Blessing, Joanne Seltzer, Mary Heselton and Deborah Eickhoff. Closest to the pin on hole number 3 went to Jennifer Halfpenny and on hole number 7 went to Heidi Bourke. Congratulations to all the winners and kudos to all who participated.

Tournament play on Wednesdays has begun with sign up to play by 9:00 pm the Sunday before. Also, make sure that the Golf Genius App is on all phones as scores and results for tournaments are recorded on it. Our WGAP team has played two matches and is off to a good start. Stay tuned for results!!

Finally, enjoy some pictures from Opening Day.

See you on the course!!

Ryan Reeves

DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE

As we continue to enjoy the amenities and camaraderie that make Laurel Creek Country Club a special place, I want to take a moment to address an important issue that may impact our shared experiences.

As many of you are likely aware, recent changes in tariffs have led to significant increases in the costs of various products that we purchase for our club. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality offerings, and it is important for you to know that these changes may require adjustments in our pricing across several areas, including our restaurants, golf course, and other amenities where these products are served.

Some of the key items affected by these price increases include:

• Imported beer

• All canned beverages, due to a rise in aluminum costs

• Fresh produce

• Coffee

• Chocolate

• Nuts

• Seafood

• Wine

We understand that many of you may be noticing similar trends in your personal lives and businesses. Please rest assured that we are committed to maintaining the value of your membership at Laurel Creek Country Club. Our goal is to minimize the impact on your experience while ensuring we can continue to provide the high-quality products and services you expect.

We appreciate your understanding and support during this time as we navigate these unavoidable changes. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for being a valued member of our community.

Pete Rosenblatt

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Thank you, Riley & Florencio for all that you do!

Spring Pea Soup

1 lb. frozen peas

2 Tbsp butter

1 shallot, sliced

1 small leek, washed and sliced

2 sprig tarragon

1 cup heavy cream

3 cups water

Salt and white pepper

Cook shallot and leeks in butter in a soup pot over medium heat until soft, about 5-7 minutes.

Add water, tarragon and bring to a boil, simmer over low heat for 20 minutes

Add peas and cream, season with salt and pepper. Bring back to a Simmer and cook for 5 more minutes

Puree in a blender until smooth and adjust seasoning to taste. Enjoy!

RILEY STARKE & FLORENCIO ZAYAS CAMPOS

Daniel Batchelor

DIRECTOR OF TENNIS

It’s Time to Get Your Game On – No Matter Your Age, Skill, or Excuse Level Let’s face it: your racquet misses you. It’s been sitting in your closet, tangled in a beach towel, wondering when it will once again feel the sweet sting of a perfectly timed forehand. The time is now. Whether you’re a total beginner, a weekend warrior, or just someone who likes the sound of a well-struck ball more than a conference call—we’ve got something for you. Plus, let’s be honest—it’s cheaper and better than therapy, and the only side effect is a killer backhand and some new friends. Here’s what’s happening on our courts:

TENNIS

Fast-Paced, Fun-Filled Adult Clinics: Group energy, tailored instruction, and enough laughs to make you forget you’re actually getting a workout. Our Adult Clinics are already in full swing. We even have a clinic for those that are new to tennis or just want to actually enjoy learning it! Our brand-new adult red ball clinic is designed to make learning tennis easier, more fun, and way less intimidating. Think bigger balls, smaller courts, and instant success. It’s the happiest way to learn (no prior experience or yoga flexibility required)!

PRIVATE LESSONS: For when you want a little extra attention, minus the audience. Our pros are like tennis whisperers—except louder and with more topspin.

JUNIOR PROGRAMS ARE IN FULL SWING: Our ROGY-based junior clinics are off and running— designed to teach the game the right way from the start. Plus, our tennis camps are now available to sign up for through the app! That’s right: a full day of tennis, fun, and tired kids (you’re welcome).

WOMEN’S INTERCLUB MATCHES BEGIN: Good luck to our women’s teams as they kick off their competitive season! Go team!

MEN’S IN-HOUSE LEAGUE: Tuesday nights just got better—our in-house men’s league is the perfect mix of competition and camaraderie.

PICKLEBALL

PICKLEBALL CLINICS: Our clinics are up and running— whether you’re learning the rules or perfecting your third shot drop, laughter is guaranteed.

DINKS & DRINKS – FRIDAY, MAY 2ND

Come for the dinks, stay for the drinks! It’s the perfect mix of casual play, cold beverages, and good company. No pressure, no partners needed—just show up, paddle up, and have a blast. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, this is the place to be on a Friday night.

NEW! BURLINGTON COUNTY INTERCLUB LEAGUE: We’re thrilled to be part of this brand-new league, launching this month. A great chance to compete and represent the club!

Whether you’re here for competition, fun, fitness, or your first time, there’s something for everyone this month. We can’t wait to see you on the courts!

For more information visit my linktree: https://linktr.ee/LaurelCreekCC Reading a hard copy? Please use the QR code:

John Slade

DIRECTOR OF GOLF COURSE OPERATIONS

Spring is when we find Poa producing seeds like crazy, potentially making the greens bumpy. In order to reduce the seeds’ impact on ball roll, multiple applications of two plant growth regulators are made on the greens. So how do we know if these preventative treatments really worked?

With many plant protectant applications, we try to leave an untreated check plot, which serves a couple of purposes. First, it allows us to see how effective our treatments were. In this case, if there is little difference from a treated to an untreated area, perhaps we need to revisit our plan for controlling Poa seeds.

Secondly, it shows us if the specific inputs to the turf are really needed. For example, if we are spraying preventatively for Take-All Patch on fairways, a check plot (which may be an acre of untreated fairway) helps us to know if we need to continue making these applications, or not. That is, if both the treated and untreated areas don’t have Take-All, then is there really a need to continue making treatments in the future?

Having the greens covered throughout the winter and into March adds another variable which we need to account for when timing these Poa seed applications. Obviously the tarps capture heat and create a much different growing environment than a green without a cover is experiencing. This will change the timing of Poa seed production. While far from perfect, it does look like our treatments have worked fairly well this year.

Upcoming Events MAY

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