A Fresh Take On Tradition
This issue of The San Jose Country Club Magazine, is a celebration of community, tradition, and the timeless elegance that defines our club. Each page reflects the spirit of connection that brings members together
A Fresh Take on Tradition
San Jose Country Club is a place where heritage meets modern sophistication where time-honored traditions blend seamlessly with an elevated, welcoming experience.
Rooted in excellence and exclusivity yet approachable and friendly, the San Jose Country Club embodies a refined balance of bold energy and classic charm
Our identity is ever-evolving, shaped by our community's passion and our members' unique expressions.
wwwsjccjaxcom
Club Management
General Manager / COO: Stephen Whitson stephen whitson@sjccjax com | (904)-431-0040
Chief Financial Officer: Brian Nay brian.nay@sjccjax.com
Clubhouse Manager: Adrian Knight adrian knight@sjccjax com
Member Billing: Cydnie Forrest cydnie forrest@sjccjax com | (904)-733-2021
Director of HR: Shana Holland shana holland@sjccjax com
Director of Membership Sales; Kendahl Mills kendahl.mills@sjccjax.com | (904)-737-9064
Marketing & Communications: Savannah Watson savannah.shettler@sjccjax.com | (904)-733-7232
Executive Chef: Tera Parker tera parker@sjccjax com
Director of Catering: Brittany Williams brittany williams@sjccjax com | (904)-265-0464
Food & Beverage Manager: Jessica Burns jessica burns@sjccjax com | (904)-431-0218
Superintendent: Josh Urbanec josh.urbanec@sjccjax.com
Director of Golf: Todd Bork, PGA todd bork@sjccjax com | (904)-733-1511
Director of Tennis: Marie Waller marie waller@sjccjax com | (904)-733-1414
Director of Fitness & Aquatics: Jeff Hewitt jeff hewitt@sjccjax com | (904)-737-9071
Director of Maintenance: Tad Seymour tad seymour@sjccjax com | (904)-737-9071
2026 BOG Officers
President: Doug Saunders
President Elect: Lauren DeAlexandris
Immediate Past President: Will Morgan
Secretary: Kim Holland
Treasurer: Hans Vanden Noort
Thank You
Celebrating America’s 250 Years. Survey Feedback Responses
“Brandon, Holly, Brantley and Jordan were amazing at handling the crowds! And they did it all with a smile!"
“The food was the best it has ever been at the 4th of July event. I have been to all of them, and this was the best."
“Everything was amazing. Great job to all the team members at SJCC”
Dear Members,
Stewarding Our Legacy
I hope everyone has enjoyed a wonderful summer at home, on vacation and at San Jose Country Club. While the golf course was closed for its annual maintenance, it was great to see so many members taking advantage of the many activities and events around the Club The Clock Tower Fishing Classic, World Cup Watch Parties, Bike Night on the golf course, and Ronnie's Cookout were all tremendous successes and wonderful reminders that San Jose is about much more than golf. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make these events so memorable.
Supporting Those Who Make SJCC Special
This month, I would like to highlight an organization that truly reflects the spirit of our Club, the Lion's Den Foundation
The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization established exclusively to support the employees of San Jose Country Club and their immediate families. Its mission is simple but incredibly meaningful: to provide educational scholarships, emergency financial assistance, health and wellness support, professional development opportunities, and family assistance during times of need.
Every day, our employees work tirelessly to provide the exceptional service that defines the San Jose experience. Whether maintaining our golf course, serving meals, caring for our facilities, or welcoming members and guests, they are truly the heart of our Club
The Lion's Den Foundation provides our membership with an opportunity to give back to the people who give so much to all of us Every contribution, regardless of size, directly supports the dedicated employees and families who help make San Jose Country Club such a special place. Contributions are tax-deductible as permitted by law, and gifts may be made through the Club's administrative office.
I encourage every member to learn more about the Foundation and consider supporting this outstanding organization Please reach out to Ladson Montgomery (lmontgomery@phoenixrealtynet) with any questions on the Foundation
Thank You, Golf Course Maintenance Team!
I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to Josh Urbanec and our entire Golf Course Maintenance team for the tremendous work completed during the annual course closure.
Over the past several weeks, the team accomplished an extraordinary amount of work that would normally require two separate maintenance shutdowns. They completed extensive aerification and topdressing of the greens, tees, approaches, and fairways; performed multiple drill-and-fill and verticut treatments to improve turf health; completed significant tree work; renovated the driving range tee with new laser grading and sod; improved bunker consistency; and continued aggressive treatment of long-term agronomic challenges
Much of this work isn't immediately visible, but it is essential to providing outstanding playing conditions throughout the year and positioning our golf course for continued improvement. On behalf of the Board and membership, thank you, Josh and your entire team, for your dedication, professionalism, and pride in caring for one of our Club's greatest assets
Looking Ahead
As August arrives, many families are preparing for the start of another school year. Before long, football season will be kicking off, temperatures will begin to cool, and we'll once again enjoy some of the very best months of the year at San Jose Country Club
I encourage everyone to continue taking advantage of everything our Club has to offer, from golf, tennis, pickleball, fitness, swimming, and dining to the many outstanding social events planned throughout the coming months. The strength of San Jose has always been our members, our families, and our sense of community.
Thank you for your continued support of our Club, and I look forward to seeing you around San Jose as we head into another exciting season.
See you at the Club!
Doug President
Saunders
I encourage every member to learn more about The Lion's Den Foundation and consider supporting this outstanding organization. Please reach out to Ladson Montgomery (lmontgomery@phoenixrealtynet) with any questions on the Foundation.
Club Chronicles
Building Momentum Around The Club
As we move through another exciting summer at the Club, I want to take a moment to thank everyone who embraced the many activities and events that made July such a memorable month.
Thank You For Your Support
Whether you joined us for the Taco Bike Ride, cheered on our Pool Cats during the Swim Championships, cast a line in the Clock Tower Fishing Tournament, enjoyed one of our Steak Nights, or simply spent time with family and friends at the Club, your participation is what makes San Jose such a special place.
I would also like to extend a special thank you to everyone who came out to support Ronnie’s Buffet Night. Seeing so many members gather together to celebrate Ronnie and enjoy a wonderful evening was a true reflection of the strong sense of community that defines our Club
Clubhouse Enhancements
While July was filled with activity, it was also a productive month for improvements across the campus. Members will notice the new black aluminum fencing along San Jose
Boulevard, providing an attractive, updated appearance while enhancing the overall presentation of the Club We also completed the replacement of the tile flooring in the Clubhouse’s main corridor This project addressed the premature failure of the flooring product that was installed during the 2020 Clubhouse renovation.
Fortunately, the replacement was completed through an insurance claim, allowing the Club to resolve the issue at minimal cost while significantly improving the appearance and durability of one of our most heavily traveled areas
Additional enhancements have also been made to improve the member experience The golf practice range tee has been leveled and sodded to provide a more consistent hitting surface, the Golf Shop received a new air conditioning system to improve comfort for members and staff, and we’ve created some Grab & Go offerings at the Bar with fresh, convenient options for those looking for a quick meal or snack before or after a round or a match. We are committed to reinvesting in the Club and evaluating ways to enhance the experience for our members to enjoy every day.
Thank you for your continued support and for making San Jose such a vibrant community.
We look forward to carrying this momentum into the fall with more exciting events, ongoing improvements, and continued investments in the Club we all enjoy.
WhitsonStephen
General Manager Chief Operating Officer
Member Moments
Make the Most of August at San Jose Country Club
Summer may be winding down, but the fun at San Jose Country Club is heating up!
August is packed with great events, and we can't wait to see you and your guests enjoying everything San Jose has to offer Get on the course, make a splash at the pool, and treat yourself to delicious dining and special events from our culinary team all month long. There's no better place to gather with family and friends, make lasting memories, and soak up every last bit of summer.
Member Referral Program
Take advantage of our current member referral program and enjoy a six-month dues credit when your referral joins We want to acknowledge and thank you for your role in the growth of our club. All referrals must be emailed to Kendahl Mills at Kendahl.mills@sjccjax.com before the prospective member reaches out to the club.
Legacy Membership
We are proud to offer our Legacy Membership, designed for immediate
family members who wish to enjoy and continue the traditions of the Club If you have a family member who may be interested in joining, please contact membership
Make the Most of Summer
Bring a Guest | Invite a friend to play a round, join you poolside or on the courts!
Action Packed Calendar | Summer family events, poolside fun, live music and themed dining make the most out of your longer days!
Skills & Social: Couples golf league, tennis leagues, junior summer camps, clinics, instructions and more – endless options to get social
We look forward to seeing all of our members and guests this summer!
Warm Regards,
Mills Kendahl Director of Membership
For every new member you refer who joins the club, you will receive a referral reward equal to six months of dues. This dues credit will be equal to the new member's membership category. We want to acknowledge and thank you for your role in our club's growth.
All referrals must be emailed to Kendahl Mills at kendahlmills@sjccjax.com before the prospective member contacts the club.
Our referral program helps build a strong community and encourages you to share the benefits of being part of San Jose with your friends, family, and associates
Whether they are passionate golfers, tennis lovers, or simply looking for a place to relax and connect, we invite you to invite them to explore all that the club has to offer.
Kendahl Mills, Director of Membership 9047379064 | kendahlmills@sjccjaxcom
Tradition Lives Here
Welcome To Our New Members
Stephen & Kaitlyn LaBel
Stephen and Kaitlyn LeBel along with their two children, Taigen and Tripp, are excited and grateful to be considered for membership at San Jose Country Club.
Stephen is a life long native of the Jacksonville/St Johns area and is now raising his family where he grew up. Golfing is Stephen’s favorite hobby and enjoys traveling and playing at different courses/clubs, with the most recent being Shadow Creek
Kaitlyn is a stay at home mom that is excited for the fellowship with other ladies at San Jose She spends most of her days toting both of their children to their extracurricular activities and sitting in the stands at a ball field.
As a family, they enjoy traveling, especially to the Caribbean islands, visiting Major and Minor League baseball fields/games, playing different golf courses across the country and attending church
Jerome and Kenzie are pleased to call both Florida and Montana home, recently choosing to split their time between the two states to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Jerome recently sold his technology company, and Kenzie works as a healthcare consultant They share a love of golf, football, live music, wine, and spending time outdoors with their two adorable dogs
Together they enjoy traveling, entertaining friends, and being active members of the communities they call home. They also cherish time with their two adult daughters and look forward to becoming engaged members of the club community
Jerome & Kenzie
Where You Belong
Welcome To Our New Members
Sharon Storey & James Church
We are excited for the opportunity to return to this wonderful country club community of neighbors, friends and family We have so many cherished memories here and look forward to creating many more, especially as our family continues to grow
We are both now retired and love spending time with our six sons and their families. Becoming grandparents has brought us so much joy, and we're especially excited to share this special place with the newest members of our family.
When we're not enjoying family time, you'll find us traveling, attending live concerts, and discovering new restaurants
We look forward to reconnecting with old friends, making new ones, and enjoying all that this wonderful community has to offer!
Golf Groove
Working Today. Playing Better Tomorrow.
We hope everyone is enjoying summer and I know we are all excited to get the course opened back up. We wanted to touch on a couple things as we prepare to get back out on the course:
Course Playability/Updates
Josh and the GCM team were able to get a lot of stuff done during the extended shutdown this year GCM completed work that would normally be accomplished in two separate shutdowns during this time period.
As a reminder, here is what was done:
·Drilled the greens using the Drill and Fill Machine two times during the process
Also used a traditional punch pulling a small core (size of diameter of a pencil)
Veriticut multiple times throughout the process to remove organic matter, grain, thatch
Attack low areas of the greens that hold water more aggressively
Aerified, verticut, and topdressed all tees and approaches
Aerified, scalped, verticut and topdressed fairways
Tree work that has been approved by golf committee completed based on time/budget availability (several dead or unhealthy trees on property)
NEW DRIVING RANGE TEE
Range was stripped of sod, then laser graded by MacCurrach Golf
Two types of grass being tested, Tahoma 31 and Celebration Hybrid
What To Expect When We Come Back
Typical recovery time is about 6 weeks from a major maintenance
Since work was spread over several weeks, expect recovery timeline to start when the course reopens
The fairways are already recovering very nicely, which shows our efforts are paying off. Green complexes take longer, but we're on track.
You will notice some of the greens took some damage during the process (this always happens to our greens) These areas are nothing to worry about and will recover GCM is also dealing with Take All Root Rot and nematode issues and aggressively treating
These are issues every course deals with, not unique to us
We do however get more of this and at a higher severity due to our weak soil composition, something that would be addressed in a future renovation.
GCM went through all bunkers and churned up the sand several times to help consistency
Our bunkers do need some serious structural work that will be addressed with our long-term renovation planning
GCM also plans to add sand to them throughout the year as budgeting allows DRIVING RANGE: the new sod for the range arrived in a more juvenile state than anticipated The grass portion of the range will remain closed to allow for this sod to properly mature
At this time, we do not have an exact timeline for when we will be able to use the real grass; the range will remain on mats during this time
We will monitor the progress on an ongoing basis and communicate to the membership
The range will close completely for short periods during the day when GCM needs to hand water
Also, we decided to remove the artificial mats in the chipping area and replace with new sod This will allow for more space and consistent conditions
Thank you all for your patience and understanding GCM has shown that San Jose can be elevated to a club with elite conditions We just need to TRUST THE PROCESS
Thank you again as always for making this the best membership in North Florida,
The Golf & Grounds
Committee
Matthew Saxton, Chair & Steve Simmons, Co-Chair
Fresh Fairways Ahead
Back on the Course: August Golf at San Jose Country Club
As summer comes to a close and everyone settles back into school routines, we’re excited to welcome you back to the golf course! Thank you for your patience during our annual aerification process The course is now open, and we can’t wait for you to see the incredible work Joshua Urbanec and our Golf Course Maintenance Team have done to prepare it for the season ahead.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our recent Golf Shop Blowout Sale! It was a huge success, and we hope you found some great deals.
Course Reminders
As we get back into a full golf schedule, we’d like to remind everyone of a few simple ways to help make every round enjoyable Please help maintain a pace of play of four hours or less whenever possible, repair your divots with sand, and remember to follow the club dress code, which our Golf Staff is happy to assist with if needed.
Golf Shop Updates
August may bring the Florida heat, but there are still plenty of great mornings to get out and play. Stop by the Golf Shop soon for our new Jaguars merchandise, and don’t forget that Full Golf Members receive discounted guest packages, perfect for bringing friends out to enjoy the course.
Bork’s Wolfson Scramble
Be sure to join us for The Bork’s Wolfson Children’s Hospital Golf Scramble on Monday, August 31. Registration is available through Golf Genius, and all proceeds benefit Wolfson Children’s Hospital, providing exceptional care for children throughout our community.
As always, thank you for your continued support We appreciate your membership and look forward to seeing you on the course this August!
Warm Regards,
irector of Golf
Parent Child Tournament
Max - Titus McKay
Scott - Ford Riley
Russ - Russell Libby
1
Tom - Lucky Duffy
Michael - Aubrey Mar Kayman Jeremy - Jack Raynor
Racquet Sports
Fall Into a New Season of Tennis at San Jose
Where did the summer go? It is hard to believe fall is already approaching!
We will wrap up another wonderful summer with our popular Ladies’ “Get Ready for the Season” Boot Camp, taking place August 10–14 Our Fall Junior AfterSchool Tennis Program and Adult Fall Programming will begin August 17
Fall Programing
We are excited to carry the momentum from summer into a busy fall filled with clinics, drills, leagues, and social events for players of all ages and skill levels We look forward to seeing everyone back on the courts!
Exciting Leadership Updates
Please join us in congratulating Kevin Grant on his promotion to Head Tennis Professional & Men’s Coordinator Since joining San Jose last year, Kevin’s passion for teaching, professionalism, and dedication to the member experience have made a tremendous impact.
Kevin and Nataly Yoo will now serve as our Head Tennis Professionals, with Kevin leading men’s programming and Nataly focusing primarily on women’s programming.
We are also pleased to announce that Erika Swanson will serve as our Junior Coordinator beginning this fall Erika’s enthusiasm, organization, and commitment to our young players have been invaluable to the continued success of the junior program.
Congratulations to Kevin, Nataly, and Erika. We are excited about the future of tennis at San Jose and look forward to another outstanding season!
Warm Regards,
Marie Director of Tennis
Waller
Watch Tennis Pro Kevin Grant’s latest YouTube Short on this topic! Share, like, and comment for more!
Kevin
Grant
Assistant Tennis Pro
Fitness & Aquatics
Back to School, Back to Your Routine: August Fitness & Pool Updates
August is here, which means the start of a new school year is right around the corner!
As summer schedules begin to settle down, the Fitness Center is here to help you get back into a consistent routine. Our group fitness classes are continuing as scheduled, so be sure to review the latest class calendar and find the option that works best for you Whether you are returning to a favorite class or trying something new, this is a great time to refocus on your health and wellness goals Please remember to register for all fitness classes through the San Jose App.
Swim season has officially come to a close, and we are proud to congratulate the PoolCats on finishing third at the River City Championships! Thank you to all of our swimmers, coaches, families, and supporters for another exciting and successful season Great job, PoolCats!
The pool will continue to operate normally for the remainder of the summer. The primary change will be the lifeguard schedule, which will transition to weekends only as school begins. We hope everyone enjoys the final weeks of summer, and we look forward to seeing you staying active, relaxing by the pool, and enjoying everything the Club has to offer!
Warm Regards,
Jeff
Hewitt
Director of Fitness & Aquatics
Phone: 123
Email: hello@reallygrea
LinkedIn: @reall
Website: reallygrea 123 Anywhere St , Any CONTACT D
RECIPE OF THE MOMENT
Classic Shrimp Cocktail
Interim Executive Chef
This Classic Shrimp Cocktail is a fresh and timeless appetizer, perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a light bite Jumbo shrimp are gently poached with lemon, basil, garlic, peppercorns, and salt for bright, savory flavor, then chilled until perfectly tender Served with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce and fresh lemon wedges, it is an elegant favorite that is simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser
INGREDIENTS
1lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 lemons cut into wheels
4 basil sprigs
6 cloves garlic
2 Tbsp peppercorns
¼ cup salt
3 lemons cut into wedges
½ cup prepared horseradish
2 cup ketchup
¼ cup lemon juice
2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
DIRECTIONS
Shrimp
1 Heat water, lemon wheels, basil, garlic, peppercorn and salt on medium flame
2 Once the water comes to a boil, add shrimp
3 When the liquid comes back to a boil, turn the heat source off
4 Allow the shrimp to steep until the shrimp is pink and curled into a C
5 Immediately transfer shrimp to an ice bath (equal parts water and Ice)
6 Once Shrimp has cooled, strain and remove excess ice
7 Place shrimp on a cookie sheet lined with paper towels
Sauce
1 In a medium sized mixing bowl combine horseradish, ketchup, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce
2 Mix until well combined
3 Transfer to a serving bowl or ramekin
4 Serve along side shrimp and garnish with lemon wedges
TERA’S TIP
Watch the shrimp closely while they steep As soon as they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape, transfer them directly to the ice bath to stop the cooking process and keep them tender and juicy
August 2026 Calendar of Events
Happy,Happy Hour 5pm-7pm
KendaScottSip&Shop 5pm-7:30pm 9HLGASeasonOpener
NationalWildlifeDay FreeEducationalShow byClarksCritter’s 5:30pm-6:30pm
NYNYDuelingPianos 7pm-9pm
TheFirstTreeChip TrefryMemorial Tournament
SJLGASeasonOpener
LaborDayLuau PoolParty 11am-5pm FreeCottonCandy 5pm-7pm September BookClub
TheFirstTreeChip TrefryMemorialDinner
SNAGJuniorGolf 10am
SJLGAInviational
SJLGAInviational
CoffeeTalkwiththe GeneralManager 9am-10am
FalltoberFestival 4pm-9pm
SNAGJuniorGolf 10am
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
Happy Happy Hour
When: Where: Details:
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Donald Ross Dining Room
Join us for our monthly raffle, you must be participating in the $1 a month Live Music by Iris & Andie Band
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
Back To School
Bash
When: Where: Details:
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Pool
Join us at the pool for back-to-school fun with a waterslide, DJ, bubble party, and crafts for everyone!
YOU’RE INVITED
Men’s Tennis Night
When: Where: Details:
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Tennis Courts
Join Kevin for Men’s Tennis Night, an evening of great matches, friendly competition, and fun on the courts!
YOU’RE INVITED
Mahjong
Open Play
When: Where: Details:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM San Jose Room
Join us for Open Play! The Clubhouse has purchased 2 sets of Mahjong to have for members who do not have materials to play
YOU’RE INVITED
August Book Club
When: Where: Details:
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Donald Ross Dining Room
Enjoy a Member Charged Ala-Carte Lunch
National
When: Where: Details:
YOU’RE INVITED 11:00 AM- 3:00 PM St Augustine Room Join us for Family Bingo & a delicious Buffet by Chef Tera!
YOU’RE INVITED
Family Bingo Night
When: Where: Details:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM St Augustine Room
Join us for Family Bingo & a delicious Buffet by Chef Tera!
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN 10:00 AM Short Game Facility
When: Where: Details:
Join us for SNAG junior Golf with our amazing instructor, Stephanie Connelly Eiswerth!
CATERING & EVENTS
Exceptional Events.
Lasting Memories.
Whether you're planning an intimate gathering, a milestone celebration, or a corporate event, our Catering and Events team is here to help create unforgettable experiences From elegant weddings and birthday celebrations to golf outings, holiday parties, and business meetings, we take pride in bringing your vision to life with elevated service and attention to every detail
As we continue through the season, now is the perfect time to start planning your upcoming events Popular dates fill quickly, so we encourage members to reserve early
We also love celebrating life's biggest moments with our members and their guests If you have an upcoming occasion, we'd be honored to help make it memorable. Our team is happy to assist with customized menus, décor ideas, and personalized touches to make your event truly special
For more information or to begin planning your next event, please reach out. We look forward to helping you create lasting memories at the Club!
LET'S PLAN SOMETHING UNFORGETTABLE.
Clubhouse (904)-733-2020
Tuesday & Sunday
10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Wednesday–Saturday 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Men’s Lounge
(904)-733-2020 ext. 147
Tuesday–Sunday 10:00 am–4:00 pm
Closed on Monday
Donald Ross Dining Room
(904)-733-2020 ext 360
Tuesday & Sunday
11:00 am–3:00 pm
Wednesday–Saturday
11:00 am–9:00 pm & 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
Bar service will continue for 1 hour after food service.
Tuesday & Sunday, the bar closes at 6:00 pm
Closed on Monday
Tennis Pro Shop
(904)-733-2020 ext 139
Monday–Friday 8:00 am–7:00 pm
Saturday 8:00 am–5:00 pm
Sunday 10:00am–5:00 pm
Hours of Operation
Golf Course & Practice Facilities
(904)-733-2020 ext 131
Tuesday–Sunday 8:00 am to Dusk Golf Shop (904)-733-2020 ext 131
Tuesday–Sunday 7:00 am–6:00 pm
Closed on Monday
Fitness Center (904)-733-2020 ext 121
Monday–Friday 5:00 am–8:30 pm
Saturday 8:00 am–6:00 pm
Sunday 10:00 am–5:00 pm
Cubs Corner (904)-431-0116
Monday–Friday 8:00 am–2:00 pm & 3:00 pm–8:00 pm Saturday 8:00 am–2:00 pm
Kids Club Dinner Fridays 6:00 pm–10:00 pm
Reservations Required
