THE DIVOT
Mission Statement
“To provide our members, their families and their guests with golf, dining, and recreational programming in a family-friendly environment. Our exceptional service, outstanding facilities and first-class amenities will create greater value for our members.”
JULY 2023
Graphic
Designer | AR
Marco F. Benedetti
Happy 4th of July!!! I look forward to seeing everyone at the fireworks’ display and enjoying the barbecue. I want to thank you for your participation in the golf events, themed dinners, and other multiple events planned by the staff and committees. I had the pleasure of attending the Bingo event recently and was excited to see the membership’s support of a great fund-raising event. It is great to see the Club so vibrant.
The Irrigation Project continues to move along on schedule. The trenching of the main lines is complete and work around the greens and fairways has commenced. Our installer has been very diligent, working six days a week to complete the project. Based on the last update, we should be able to complete the project during the month of July.
I hope you had a chance to attend the Town Hall Meeting with Chris Myslow and the senior staff. It was well attended, and we received some good feedback from the membership. We will investigate options to see what can be done to improve the women’s locker room and appreciate their concern. I would suggest that we defer the discussion on the forward tee boxes and the placement of forward tees until we complete the project. Where tee markers are placed on how the course is rated will have input from the USGA.
A couple of budget updates. I am pleased to communicate that we met our target for Initiation Fees for the year but fell short on the Due’s revenue halfway through the year. We are still attracting new members but are currently short of the 339 full equivalent members we had hoped to be at by the end of June. Fortunately, our operations have been efficient, and we have had a fair number of outside events that have offset the revenue shortfall and remain on budget.
We have started the budgeting process and have scheduled meetings with the Long-Range Planning Committee, to look at capital needs, and we will be convening the By-Law committee shortly. Our Nominating Committee is starting up and we will begin to reach out to the membership for three new Board of Governors to fill a three-year term that will begin November 1. If approached, please consider running for the Board, it is a satisfying role and there is always something to work on.
The upcoming Ralph Haas Invitational is scheduled for the end of July and while we are close to selling out, we are not there. We did sell out the event last year at 72 teams and are currently at 69 teams. I encourage you to register and play if you have not done so. It is a premier event to participate in and the guests that come are always impressed by the quality of the event.
As always, thank you for your continued support. Looking forward to seeing you around the Club.
2 July FROM THE DESK OF YOUR PRESIDENT
Christopher M. Myslow
Based on the event itself and member feedback, I am very pleased to announce that the first TVCC Town Hall meeting held on June 7 was deemed a highly-rated success.
More than 70 members attended in person while another 20+ people attended online – the first of our many meeting offerings in which that opportunity will be provided. Because of this success, we will be offering another Town Hall in the Fall so that we may receive your thoughts and comments for how we can improve our operations for 2024.
Also, I want to continue to emphasize that my team and I are always available to listen to your feedback and make positive changes for the greater good where we can. In the meantime, I am addressing each of the issues raised in the meeting and will report back on the progress we are making.
Welcome Newest Team Member
I am pleased to announce that we have filled a very important role here at Transit Valley with Brandon Sterner coming on board as our new Director of Food and Beverage. His day-to-day responsibilities will include the oversight of the kitchen and bar operations, cost control measures, and the training of all staff members. Brandon comes to us from the Hyatt Regency downtown where he oversaw the food and beverage operations. I look forward to recognizing Brandon’s impact on our service levels and particularly our overall food and beverage operational challenges.
A Very Busy Transit Valley Summer
It is hard to believe that we are already in the throes of summer here at TVCC.
First, I want to thank my managers – Matt Thormahlen, Joe Wilkie and Angela Staszak for doing such a great job of organizing our summer recreation, pool and Kids’ Club programs. I am happy to report that the camps are at record participation levels this year and judging by the happy faces we see, they are doing very well. Participation rates have grown by double digits in nearly every category for these summer programs and I look forward to delivering the final results upon their conclusion.
Our People Really Count
As the General Manager and COO of Transit Valley Country Club, I take great pride in building the best team possible for the specific areas of our operation. With that task comes great challenges. Thus, I politely ask your patience as the new waitstaff team gets acclimated and many of the new hires begin to understand the culture that we have and are cultivating here at TVCC.
I also am very aware of the needs of our members. Each day, our managers work with our employees to provide them with the best training necessary to enhance your Club experience.
Furthermore, I have ensured we are investing in the tools necessary for our managers to optimize their operations. These tools include up-to-date hardware and software platforms as well as training and education for their professional growth.
The challenges of a seasonal business, as well as current labor market trends, make it difficult to retain a younger base of employees for the longer term. That’s why we are constantly working with our staff members and supporting them in their roles of delivering quality guest services to our TVCC family.
Enjoy the Summer of 2023!
3 July
FROM THE DESK OF YOUR CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER & GENERAL MANAGER
Director of Operations/ Membership Services Director Tina Gutekunst
Current months postings for new applicants and change in membership classification are as follows:
Name Classification Applying For
Thomas Insalaco
Charles Gorino
Amy Texter
Anthony Thomas
Jack Yellen
Steven Goldstein
Daniel Valentine
Mark Dominguez
Ryall Ledyard
Resident
Recreational
Intermediate Level 2A (30-34)
Intermediate Level 3 (18-29)
Resident to Recreational
Resident to Recreational
Intermediate Level 1A (37-39) to Resident
Intermediate Level 1B (35-36) to Intermediate Level 1A (37-39)
Intermediate Level 3 (18-29) to Intermediate Level 2A (30-34)
Comments regarding the proposed applicants should be directed to the Membership Chairman, David Hawker.
A Very Warm Welcome to our Newest Members
Deepest Sympathy to...
Mr. Donald and Mrs. Cindy Fohrd on the passing of Cindy’s brother, Paul Woitas.
Mr. Edward and Mrs. Kathleen Warnke on the passing of Kathleen’s Dad, Gerald Hooley who was a longtime member.
Accounting Question?
Please direct any accounting questions to Tina by calling the office or emailing tinag@transitvalley.com.
4 July MEMBERSHIP
MATTERS
Conor & Jennifer Lynch Intermediate Level 3
Indi & Katie Kormaku Intermediate Level 2A (30-34)
Philip & Claire Alexander Intermediate Level 2A (30-34)
Dr. Amy Rappold & Ryan Campbell Recreational
Dr. Daniel, Jennine, Benjamin, Finnley Keller Intermediate Level 2A (30-34)
Susan Patenalla & Bruce Barit Recreational
A Message from our Assistant General Manager & Food & Beverage Director Brandon Sears
What a great start to the summer season, and we are all looking forward to what is sure to be an enjoyable rest of summer. In order to provide you with the best dining experience, we kindly ask for everyone to make reservations. It greatly helps the food and beverage team to better prepare as to what can be expected for a specific meal. With time comes change, I would like to introduce our new Director of Food & Beverage, Brandon Sterner. He comes highly regarded with a variety of food and beverage experience throughout Western New York. Throughout his time here, he truly looks forward to getting to know all the membership and helping bring the Transit Valley food and beverage program to the next level. These next two months will be action packed with a variety of events for you, your families, and guests to attend. On Saturday, July 15th, we have Kidchella at the pool, a spin on the popular music festival Coachella. We are bringing back Grill and Chill on Sundays throughout the months of July and August, be sure to enjoy some of chef’s BBQ favorites. We look forward to seeing you around the club.
Brandon Sterner, Transit Valley Country Club’s new Director of Food and Beverage, was born and raised in North Evans, NY. Brandon holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management with a concentration in food & beverage operations from Niagara University.
Brandon is a detail-oriented, conscientious hospitality worker with 12+ years of experience, a passion for creating memorable dining experiences, and a deep appreciation for red wine. Outside of the clubhouse, Brandon currently resides in North Buffalo with his soon-to-be-fiancé, Christina, and their three cats (Milkshake, Gidget, and Wobbles). He enjoys the works of Vonnegut, Sinek, Bourdain, and Gladwell in between attending Bills games as a season ticket member.
Brandon began his hospitality management career with the Butterwood Desserts chain, operating Brioso by Butterwood in the Wyndham Garden Hotel in Williamsville, NY. He then transitioned into an exciting opportunity to be a member of the opening management team of New York Beer Project’s Lockport, NY location, focusing on event coordination and leading front-of-house teams. Brandon briefly held a position as a Project Manager for Systems Technology Group, programming and installing point-of-sale systems in a wide array of hospitality settings across the country, before moving to Ellicottville, NY to take the position of General Manager at Dina’s restaurant.
After three successful ski seasons, Brandon moved back to WNY and accepted a position as SPoT Coffee International, Inc.’s Operations Manager. Despite the 2020 pandemic, Brandon and his team achieved great success navigating the COVID-19 landscape safely and strategically. He accepted promotions to Chief Operating Officer, Director, and finally President & COO before leaving the company in June 2022.
Most recently, Brandon held the position of Food & Beverage Manager at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo Hotel & Conference Center, a 396-room operation recently acquired by Douglas Jemal. Before leaving to join the Transit Valley family, Brandon oversaw food and beverage operations for the full-service restaurant in the lobby, as well as the Starbucks outlet, room service, and assisted with banquet and catering functions.
Brandon looks forward to getting to know the wonderful members and their families that make up Transit Valley Country Club and truly appreciates the warm reception thus far.
5 July
July
Grill and Chill
Every Sunday in July and August | 5:00PM - 7:30PM
With the exception of August 6th
Join us on the Patio for a varying grill station, summer fare, and cold cocktails!
A la Carte dinner menu will not be available | Kids’ Menu will be available
9 & Dine on the Golf Course
Sunday, July 9th
A fun and casual event open to all golf and recreational members and guests! A great way to meet your fellow members.
4:00PM | Meet on the Driving Range for Hors d’oeuvres & Beverages
4:30PM | 9-Hole Shotgun
On the turn - 716 SOund PhOtO BOOth
Soft Shell Crab Club Sandwich
Bacon, Dressed Napa, Ripe Tomato, Tartar Sauce
Water & Soda
hOle #3
Build Your Nacho Bowl
Crisp Corn Tortillas with Toppings Galore
Water & Soda
hOle #6
House Smoked Baby Back Ribs
Sweet Corn
Water & Soda
hOle #16
Build Your Nacho Bowl
Crisp Corn Tortillas with Topping Galore
Water & Soda
enjOy deSSert On the PatiO after Play
Petite Pastries & Coffee
$50 per person (Does not include Golf Cart)
Sign up on Foretees or call the Golf Shop
Music on the Patio
Saturday, July 22nd
6:00PM - 9:00PM
Featuring Kevin McCarthy
A la Carte Dinner Reservations are available from 5:00PM - 8:30PM
August
Seafood Night
Sunday, August 6th
5:00PM - 8:30PM | Music on the Patio by Vinnie DeRosa
5:00PM - 7:30PM | Dinner Reservations
Please look for an email with more details coming soon!
Music on the Patio
Friday, August 11th
6:00PM - 9:00PM
Featuring Chet Gary
A la Carte Dinner Reservations are available from 5:00PM - 8:30PM
6 July
SOCIAL EVENTS
To Benefit Home of My Own of WNY
Chipp i n g C o ntest
4:30pm – 6:30pm on the Putting Green
Playoff at 6:45pm | $10 for 3 chips
Winner receives $500 gift certificate to the Pro Shop
We have an exciting new chipping contest for Preview Night this year! The chipping contest is open to all men and women members and their guests. Come test your chipping skills while raising money for Home of My Own of WNY. You may enter the contest as many times as you wish and chip anytime between 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Those qualifying for the play off will be called back at 6:45 pm.
Cocktail Party in the Ballroom
5:00PM - 7:30PM
50-50 TICKETS
Drawing at 7:30pm, cash only
BASKET AUCTION AND SILENT AUCTION
Close on Thursday, August 10th at 2:00pm
See all the wonderful baskets and items up for auction! Take your chance at winning!
One beer or wine drink ticket per person in the Ballroom, all other drinks by signature
STATIONED
Assorted Sliced Charcuterie
Grilled Vegetables, Marinated Kalamata Olive Salad, Roasted Peppers, Gorgonzola Cheese, Fresh Mozzarella, Infused Virgin Olive Oil, Semolina Batard Toasts
Baked Brie En Croute
Sage Butter Basted Breast of Turkey
Assorted Hand Rolls & Appropriate Condiments
$40.00 per person | Open to all Members and Guests
Please email reservations@transitvalley.com or call the Club to reserve your spot!
Please come and support this important charity event to benefit Home of My Own of WNY.
7 July
SOCIAL EVENTS
CANCELLATION POLICY
48-hour cancellation policy is in effect for all Events.
Members who make reservations for Club Events and fail to cancel the reservation two days prior will be responsible for paying the charge established by the Club. Please call the Club or email reservations@transitvalley.com to make a reservation!
8 July
Kids’ Club Director Angela Staszak
As we dive into our summer season, we are excited to announce the details of many child, tween, teen, and family-friendly events on our calendar. In addition to offering our Kids’ Club Camp, we will be offering a Fun Friday for children each month. We look forward to seeing you at our summer events.
Kids’ Game On | Teen Selfie Scavenger Hunt & Game Night
Thursday, July 13th | 5:30PM - 9:00PM | Meet under the Kids’ Club Awning
Calling all teens! Join us for a night full of fun, friends, and competition. We will be sending you and a team of your closest friends across the Club on a selfie scavenger hunt. Register yourself as an individual, pair or group. Guests are welcome to join.
Following the scavenger hunt, join us for Ultimate Party Truck! This 32’ gaming trailer includes: Play Station 5, Play Station 4, Nintendo Switch and Xbox. Compete in real time to see who the video game champion is! swimming!
Grilled Cheeseburgers, Hot Dogs, and Chicken Breast
Salty Bagged Snacks, and French Fries
Cookies and Brownies
Lemonade and Water Station
$30.00 per child | Ages 13 - 15
Kidchella at the Pool
Saturday, July 15th 6:00PM - 9:00PM
Look for more information on the cover
S.T.E.M. Day
Friday, July 21st | 12:00PM - 1:30PM
If you like creating things and solving problems, this is the day for you! Children will rotate through multiple stations, each with its own activity or problem to solve. Do you want to build and take home your very own catapult? Can you save an egg from destruction? Join us and find out!
Assorted Cookie and Popcorn Station
Lemonade and Water Station
$25.00 per child | Ages 5 & up
9 July KIDS’
KORNER
Botanical Gardens Terrarium Building
Friday, August 4th | 11:00AM - 12:00PM
Students will learn about what plants need to grow and build a working model of the water cycle while creating the perfect habitat for a tropical plant. This miniature ecosystem is fun to create, easy to care for, and exciting to take home.
Cutout Cookies
Lemonade and Water Station
$25.00 per child | Ages 5 & up | 20 Child Maximum
TVCC “Tough Guy” Triathlon
Friday, August 11th
Calling all boys ages 10-12! Do you love competitive sports? Then this night is for you!
Join us as we compete in a “triathlon” of fun. Boys will be broken into two teams to compete in three sports: dodgeball, soccer, and water basketball. The evening will conclude with a pizza party and open swimming!
4:00pm - 4:30pm | Team setup
4:30pm - 6:00pm | Triathlon
6:00pm - 7:00pm | Pizza & Open Swim
$25.00 per child | Guests Welcome!
Please bring sneakers, swim gear and dry clothes.
Girls Spa Day
Saturday, August 12th
Calling all girls ages 10-12. Do you love being pampered? Then this is the event for you! Join us as we braid hair, paint nails, and make jewelry. Guests Welcome. More details coming soon.
Kids’ Free Novelties Day
Thursdays in July | 1:00PM - 2:00PM Free novelty ice creams by the Pool!
KIDS’ CLUB
Fridays & Saturdays | 5:15PM – 9:15PM
Supervised Kids’ Activities in the Clubhouse are available while you are having dinner. Reservations are no longer required for Kids’ Club in the Clubhouse. Children must be potty trained and 3-years-old in order to participate.
10 July KIDS’ KORNER
A Message from the Women’s Committee Paula Orlowski
President
Summer is here, and I hope everyone will have an opportunity to participate in all the great activities planned this month at TVCC. As you have seen in previous months Divots, the Annual Women’s Charity Guest Day is our highlight event for the summer. Thank you to all who participated and donated to our June Home of My Own charity sponsored events, Games Galore & More as well as the Family Bingo & Pasta Night. A special thank you to Michele Pozarny, Francine Palermo, MaryAnn Maggio, as well as the entire TVCC staff, for their time and talent in organizing these events to support a great cause. If you were unable to attend one of these events, please see the articles in this month’s Divot for the many other ways you can help.
Women’s golf is in full “swing” as well. I hope all ladies, regardless of skill level, will participate in the many events scheduled during the month of July. Details on all these events can be found on the following pages. As always, please do not hesitate to contact myself or any member of the Women’s Committee, should you have any questions or concerns.
Have a safe, fun filled 4th of July!
Fellow golFers,
Thank you to those who have played in our various tournaments and events to date. We appreciate the time many of you have taken to complete our surveys for our Opening Day, Spring Bird, and Grip it and Sip it Events. You’ve given us some good feedback regarding formats, food options, event timing, and pricing which will be useful as we plan for next year! Be sure to check ForeTees to sign up for our women’s events in July, including our Wine Down Wednesday on July 12, the Mixer on July 13, and the 18-Hole Guest Day on July 20. Plan ahead for August as well:
9 Hole Championship on August 3
Charity Guest Day on August 10
18 Hole Championship on August 12 and August 13
Women’s Mixers on August 17 and August 31
Wine Down Wednesday on August 23
9 and 18 Hole Senior Championship on August 24
Please remember to post your scores when you play and consider joining in on some of our season long tournaments such as Ringers Tournament and Member-Member! During the season, please feel free to reach out to us or our golf professionals should you have any questions or suggestions! We are looking forward to golfing with many of you during the season!
Jill Belote and Karen Dobos
11 July
17TH ANNUAL WOMEN’S CHARITY GUEST DAY
Open the Door for Home of my Own of WNY
Thursday, August 10th, 2023
8:30AM | Shotgun
Sign up to Caddy 2 ways:
Sign up on Foretees
Email Patti McLain at pattimclain63@gmail.com
Preview Night | Wednesday August 9th, between 5:00PM - 7:30PM
Basket Auction, Silent Auction, and Chipping Contest. (Basket Auction and Silent Auction closes at 2pm on Thursday, August 10). Together we can have loads of fun and support a worthy cause.
Support our Tournament and Auction
Be a sponsor, donate articles such as tickets to events, gift cards, wine, and anything else you think will work.
Breakfast in Clubhouse (Caddies invited) | 7:00AM
Coffee & Juice Station
Champagne, Orange Juice, & Cranberry Juice
Buffet | Grill Room
Greek & Vanilla Yogurt with Toppings, Assorted Petite
Pastries, Bagels with Accoutrements, Coffee & Tea, Assorted Juice
On Course Snacks | 9:00AM
Hole 6
Popcorn Cups & Cheese & Cracker Cups
Halfway House
Snack Tower: Bagged Snacks, Granola Bars, & Beverages
(Canned Soda, Bottled Water, Truly, Beer)
1:00PM | Ballroom
Passed iced tea & lemonade
Drinks by Signature
1:30PM Patio | Caddies only
Hot Dogs, Hamburgers Potato Salad, & Bagged Snacks
Lunch 2:15PM | Grill Room
Fresh Baked Bread & Butter
Buffet
Chopped Salad Station
Grilled Chicken & Roasted Salmon
Dessert Station-Assorted Petite Desserts
CHARITY DAY TEE SIGNS
Anyone who has plans to renew a Charity Day tee sign - or would like to pledge a new sign - please remember to send in your form and check for $100 by July 15th. Tee signs will be displayed on the course during our Charity Day Golf Tournament on August 10th.
Forms are available in the locker rooms, lobby, or club office. Please contact Cheryl Carr (716)481-8951 or ccarr@carrmarketing.com for more information. Please consider being a part of our generous TVCC community by displaying your support of Charity Day!
Entry Fees
$125.00 per Golfer
$60 Lunch Only
If you would like to come for lunch only, please email or call the Club to make a reservation reservations@transitvalley.com.
For more Information call, or text or email:
Ellen Pachioli
Co-Founding Director
Home of My Own of WNY, Inc.
(716)570-2589
18 Monta Vista Ct.
epachioli@homeofmyownofwny.org
12 July
WOMEN’S COMMITTEE
Women’s Book Discussion Group
The Women’s Book Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month in the Women’s Locker Room Lounge.
Wednesday, July 12th | 7PM The Lies I Tell by Julie Clark.
A fast-paced thriller, with a modern-day female Robin Hood.
Wednesday, August 9th | 7PM The Guncle by Steven Rowley.
A heartwarming and humorous novel that examines the true meaning of family.
Contact Nancy Pohlman at (716)636-9748 or by email at jcpnlp135@roadrunner.com to reserve your seat.
Women’s Advanced Mah Jongg
Every Thursday | 2:30PM - 5:00PM
7:00PM - 9:00PM
Women’s Locker Room Lounge
If anyone wants to have lunch or dinner with the girls, please call the Club or email reservations@transitvalley.com for your reservation.
If you need a new card for 2023, please order through the National Mah Jongg League or call (212)246-3052. Lis DiGiore has additional cards available at the same cost ($15).
If you would like to sign up to play, or have any questions, contact Lis DiGiore, at digioreins@roadrunner.com or call her at (716)912-2862.
Guests with members are welcomed!
Women’s Stitch-Along
Every Friday | 10:00AM
Optional Lunch | 11:45AM
Enjoy knitting, crocheting, or embroidery? Bring along your latest project to work on and enjoy lively conversation, laughter, and friendship. Beginners are always welcome and Jeanne Mowery, if needed, will provide knitting instructions. Non-knitters also welcome!
Contact the Club or email Jeanne Mowery at jalmow@yahoo.com or call her at (716)688-4506 to reserve your seat.
Canasta
Every Wednesday | 2:30PM | Cole Room
Optional Lunch is available
If you would like to sign up to play, or have any questions please contact Francine Palermo at (716)725-8558.
Women’s Supper Club and Bunco
We are going to try & bring Bunco back! This is a game played with dice (lots of fun & easy).
Third Wednesday of the month, starting July 19th at 7:00pm in the Women’s Locker Room Lounge. Guests Welcome!
Optional Dinner at 5:30pm. Please call the Club to make your dinner reservation.
If you have any questions or want to play, please contact Lis DiGiore at (716)912-2862 or email digioreins@roadrunner.com
Women’s TVCC Bowling League
We will start our Fall Session on the first Wednesday in October. If anyone is interested in joining us and/or wants more information, please contact Amy Gary at (716)435-9687, or amg8291@gmail.com.
13 July
WOMEN’S COMMITTEE
A Message from the Coach
Matt Thormahlen Director of Recreation & Tennis
Our 2023 TVCC recreational programs have gotten off to a fantastic start! Our adult and junior programming has seen a significant increase in the number of participants this year. As an example:
The Wednesday Night Adult Tennis / Pickleball has had a great turnout since the beginning of June. Each week from 6:00pm - 7:30pm, we have had three… and sometimes all four courts being used for this activity. Come out and enjoy the game with your friends.
Our Pickleball 101 classes had a total of ten participants this summer. That means there are ten new players using our pickleball courts. The great part of this is that these members picked up the rules (which can be complicated) and were able to play the game on their own in a very short period of time!
The number of kids taking part in the Junior Basketball has tripled from last year’s enrollment! Junior Pickleball numbers have more than doubled as well. Come out on Monday mornings and watch the juniors learn these games…and, more importantly, have fun!
Every year since I have been at TVCC, the number of kids in our Junior Tennis Clinic program has grown. Eight years ago, we had 38 kids participating. Last year we had 69 juniors in the program. This year we have a record 76 kids in the program!!! These clinics emphasize learning the game of tennis in a fun environment.
As you can see, the recreational programs at Transit Valley are thriving. Come out and join the fun with your fellow members.
Due to the popularity of our Junior Pickleball Clinics, the courts will be closed on the following days and times for any other recreational play. All the pickleball courts will be in use at this time.
Mondays, June 26 - August 7 10:30am - 11:30am
July RECREATION & POOL
Pickleball Invitational
Thursday, August 24th | 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Get a partner (either another member or a guest) and play in this fun event. The number of teams is limited to 12 so that players are not sitting around for too long. This year a portion of the entrance fee will benefit our Women’s Charity, Home of My Own of WNY. The focus of this charitable organization is to provide inclusive, residential options for adults with developmental disabilities desiring independent living and community engagement with minimal support.
Light Fare after play, on the South Patio
Chipotle Ranch Crudité Cups
Pesto Caprese Skewers
Vietnamese Summer Rolls
Deviled Eggs
$30.00 per person ($10.00 of the price will be donated to the Charity).
Please join us in supporting this wonderful organization. Call Coach Matt at (716)688-5857 in the tennis office or email matt@transitvalley.com to make your reservation.
A Message from the Pool Director
Joe Wilkie Pool Director
As the sun comes out and the kids break free from school, it’s easy to get caught up in planning summer vacations and camps. But before you do, make sure to explore all that Transit Valley has to offer! Whether your child is a beginner or a seasoned swimmer, looking for some exercise, personalized instruction, or need to host an event, the pool at Transit Valley is the perfect summer destination.
Mark your calendars for Saturday August 5th, when the Country Club Swim Championships will take place at Brookfield Country Club. Swim team parents don’t miss out on this exciting event - we need all hands on deck to make it a success!
Please keep in mind that tables and lounges will be available on a first come, first served basis. For the comfort and consideration of everyone, we kindly ask that you only take what you need and return used towels to the bin provided behind the women’s locker room door. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to email Joe Wilkie at jwilkie@transitvalley.com
POOL HOURS
Monday 12PM - 4PM or Volume
Tue, Thurs, & Fri 12PM - 6PM or Volume
Adult Only Swim
Sunday, July 23rd | 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Wednesday 12PM - 8PM or Volume
Sat & Sun 11AM - 6PM or Volume
July 3rd 12PM - 6PM or Volume
July 4th 11AM - 5PM or Volume
July 5th 12PM - 4PM or Volume
July 20th & 25th Pool closes at 3PM for home swim meet
15 July RECREATION & POOL
16 July RECREATION
POOL
&
A Message from The Golf Professional Jonathan
Decker, PGA Head Golf Professional
Summer golf has finally arrived, and things are in full swing at Transit Valley. Our event participation as well as our junior golf program are at record levels. We have had a terrific start to the golf season as a dry May and June allowed for great weather and enjoyable playing conditions. I would like to thank our members and guests for their patience during the irrigation project the past two months, as the short-term inconvenience will be well worth it as we near completion. With the Summer Junior Golf program starting the last week of June, we are excited to welcome over 110 players to the game as we help develop the next generation of golfers. The club’s commitment to junior golf and being the premier family club in Western New York help play a key role in the success of growing the game.
golF shop hours
MON | Closed
TUES - SUN | 7AM - 7PM
rAlph hAAs InvItAtIonAl updAte
pr ActIce FAcIlIty hours
MON | 12PM - 7PM
May vary due to outside events
TUES - SAT | 7AM - 7PM
SUNDAY | 7AM - 6PM
With the club’s marquee member-guest tournament at the end of this month, I would like our members to know that we currently have 69 teams and would like a full field of 72. We have re-opened registration for members that would be interested in playing. Please contact the Golf Shop if you would like to be added to the waitlist.
golF shop ArrIvAls
This month we will be introducing a new men’s apparel line, Johnnie-O. Johnnie-O blends East Coast and Southern California style while making high quality performance apparel items for men and boys. The newest apparel line has also been selected to be the tournament favor for the Ralph Haas Invitational. We currently have a great selection of fun prints and classic stripes!
Need a little more bounce in your step? Try the new ZG23 from adidas, as these lightweight waterproof spiked golf shoes will do the trick!
For the ladies, check out the new textured hoodies from IBKul paired with footwear from adidas.
17 July
tvcc guest polIcy
An individual can play at the club a maximum of two times in a calendar month, with tournaments not counting against the limit. We ask that all members provide the names of their guests and remind the individuals they are hosting of this policy. It is also important to note that guests from a reciprocal club are to be treated as the guest of a member when hosted at the club by someone from Transit Valley.
tournAment results
Grandmothers’ Tournament | Thursday, June 15th
9-Hole: Margie Block
18-Hole: Patti McLain
Men’s June Guest Day | Wednesday, June 14th
Erik DeGlopper, Eric Suckow, Cory Arbogast, Bryan Kilptrick
Clete Fox Invitational | Friday, June 2nd & Saturday, June 3rd
Championship: Chris Yustin & Tom Mandel
Senior: Craig McIntyre & Steve Stone
Men’s Spring Bird | Saturday, May 27th & Sunday, May 28th
Joe Lupica & Alex Bencini
Women’s Spring Bird | Tuesday, May 23rd & Thursday, May 25th
9-Hole: MaryAnn Maggio & Pat Julian
18-Hole: Marie Aaron & Lynne Stevens
Women’s June Mixer | Thursday, June 8th
9-Hole: Brigid Hurley, Karen Calandra, Lorraine Anderson
18-Hole: Mary Jane Myszka, Lynn Fish, Patti McLain, Shelly DiGiulio
Women’s Grip It & Sip It
12-Hole Scramble
Karen Dobos & Pat Ryan
rules corner
I was recently asked if players are entitled to relief from sprinkler heads located near the green. The answer is yes, but a few criteria must be met to be eligible to take relief. Transit Valley Country Club has adopted the following Local Rule:
1. The ball must lie through the green (not in a bunker or penalty area); and
2. The immovable obstruction (sprinkler head) must be on or within two club-lengths of the putting green; and
3. The immovable obstruction must be within two club-lengths of the ball; and
4. The immovable obstruction must intervene on the line of play between the ball and the hole.
If and only if, all of the criteria above are met is the player entitled to relief. Take relief by following these steps:
First, find a spot that is within one club-length of your ball’s original spot, and no closer to the hole, where the sprinkler head is no longer in your line of play.
Then, drop your ball from knee height.
18 July
BIllIng QuestIons?
Please call the Golf Shop directly at (716)688-7311 if you have any golf-related billing questions. A member of the golf staff will be happy to assist you, answer questions, and make any necessary adjustment or correction.
ghIn score postIng
Please continue to post all rounds played during the summer as long as you did not play alone. This includes rounds played at Transit Valley as well as those at other courses. We strongly recommend entering all scores hole-by-hole using the USGA GHIN App. The Golf Shop will post all scores when a scorecard is distributed.
• 9-Hole rounds can be posted as long as seven holes were completed, record Net Pars for incomplete holes.
• 18-Hole rounds can be posted as long as fourteen holes were completed, record Net Pars for any incomplete holes.
• Post all scores hole-by-hole
If in need of assistance posting scores or GHIN, please call the Transit Valley Golf Shop (716)688-7311.
19 July
The PGA Junior League takes a break from the action during a recent match against Niagara Falls Country Club.
20 July
WOMEN’S WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY
wednesdAy, July 12th
9 Holes | Tee Times starting at 5:00PM
6:00PM - 7:00PM | Unable to play golf, a clinic will be offered on the Driving Range.
7:00PM | Not a golfer? Please join us and enjoy our featured wine pairings.
Charcuterie & Wine Pairing Featuring...
Bresaola, Fennel Salami, Nduja Sausage, Gorgonzola Marshmallow, Mediterranean Relish, Virgin Oil, Toast.
Wines:
Banfi Principessa Gavi
Altos “Valle de Uco’ Malbec
All Charcuterie and Wine Pairings must be pre-order by July 9th
Charcuterie only | $16 per person with Wine Pairing | $30 per person
Wine only | $14 per person
If you are planning on staying for A la Carte dinner, call the club office or email reservations@transitvalley.com.
WOMEN’S JULY MIXER
thursdAy, July 13th
RALPH HAAS INVITATIONAL PRACTICE ROUND
thursdAy, July 27th
RALPH
HAAS INVITATIONAL MATCHES 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5
FrIdAy & sAturdAy, July 28th & 29th
WOMEN’S 9-HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP
thursdAy, August 3rd
Complimentary course beverages and hors d’ oeuvres following play
MEN’S CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
FrIdAy, August 11th
MEN’S & WOMEN’S CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS
sAturdAy & sundAy, August 12th & 13th
Women’s Club Championship | Sunday Complimentary hors d’ oeuvres after play.
Men’s Club Championship | Sunday
Complimentary Hot Dog and Burger Station at the Halfway House after play.
Complimentary soda and water on course.
PUTTING CONTEST TO BENEFIT THE WOMEN’S CHARITY,
“HOME OF MY OWN OF WNY”
thursdAy, July 13th
4:30PM – 7:30PM on the Putting Green Playoff at 8:00 pm
$10 for three putts (cash only)
50% of the proceeds go to the winner!
The putting contest is open to all men and women members and their guests. Come test your putting skills while raising money for Home of My Own of WNY.
You may enter the contest as many times as you wish and putt anytime between 4:30PM – 7:30PM. Those qualifying for the play off will be called back at 8:00 pm.
21 July
JULY AUGUST
A Message from the Greens Superintendent
Adam Mis
The summer is here and the golf course is busy. The contractor is moved from mainline installation to greens and then the fairways and tees. This will be a little more disruptive in the fact we need to close a hole while they are doing the installation. They are doing great work and looking forward to getting rid of the old and in with the new. During the process, we were still fixing and repairing the old system to keep it going until we can switch over.
You have probably noticed the auto mowers roaming around the clubhouse. We are currently using the mowers to see if they can provide the same quality and performance as our current mowers and if so we will look to start replacing some of our current mowing equipment. If they meet our expectations, the return on investment is very quick, especially rising costs. They have spinning razor blades that cut the turf on a regular basis and clippings just fall into the turf canopy. If you see them out there, please avoid and don’t try to pick them up. They don’t like to be messed with and they also have an alarm that notifies us.
We have been moving soil to some of our new tee locations so that the irrigation system can be installed to water those areas correctly. We will be working on getting them completed and into service throughout the season. We have just finished #12 forward tee and hope to be in action soon.
Our staff is very happy with the restoration of TVCC over the last few years. Which has been a lot of work, but fruits of our labor are definitely showing. The club is getting praise from all over western NY. We hope to continue to keep improving and make TVCC the best choice for private club membership in Western New York.
22 July
23 July July 2023 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Pasta Night Kids’ Club Grill & Chill Sunday Clubhouse Open for Lunch & DInner Pool Hours 12pm-6pm 4th of July Celebration Pool Hours 11am-5pm Clubhouse Closed for Holiday Course opens at noon Pool & Halfway Hours 12pm4pm Adult Tennis & Pickleball 6pm-7:30pm Mah Jongg Kids’ Free Novelties at the Pool 1pm-2pm Women’s Stitch Along Fish Fry & Salad Bar Kids’ Club Pasta Night Kids’ Club Grill & Chill Sunday 9 & Dine on the Golf Course Clubhouse Closed Outside Golf Event Junior Golf Women’s Wine Down Wednesday Canasta Book Club 7pm Adult Tennis & Pickleball 6pm-7:30pm Women’s July Mixer Mah Jongg Kids’ Free Novelties at the Pool 1pm-2pm Kids’ Game On: Teen Selfie Scavenger Hunt & Game Night Thursday Night League Finals Women’s Stitch Along Fish Fry & Salad Bar Kids’ Club Pasta Night Kids’ Club will not be available Kidchella at the Pool Grill & Chill Sunday Clubhouse Closed Outside Golf Event Junior Golf Supper Club & Bunco Canasta Adult Tennis & Pickleball 6pm-7:30pm Women’s 18-Hole Guest Day Mah Jongg Kids’ Free Novelties at the Pool 1pm-2pm CCB @ TVCC Swim Meet Pool closes at 3pm
Stitch Along Fish Fry & Salad Bar Kids’ Club S.T.E.M. Day at the Pool Pasta Night Kids’ Club Music on the Patio with Kevin McCarthy Pool Hours 11am-4pm Adult Open Swim 4pm-6pm Grill & Chill Sunday Clubhouse Closed Outside Golf Event Tuesday Night League Swim Meet Bkfld @ TVCC Pool closes at 3pm Junior Golf Canasta Adult Tennis & Pickleball 6pm-7:30pm Mah Jongg Ralph Haas Invitational Practice Round Kids’ Free Novelties at the Pool 1pm-2pm Ralph Haas Invitational Matches 1, 2, 3 Women’s Stitch Along Fish Fry & Salad Bar Kids’ Club Ralph Haas Invitational Matches 4 & 5 Summer Bash Lunch a la Carte, A la Carte Dining, Pasta Bar & Kids’ Club will not available Grill & Chill Sunday Clubhouse Closed Outside Golf Event For reservations, please call the club at (716)688-5500 or emailreservations@transitvalley.com July Dining Room Hours Monday Closed TuesdaySaturday A la Carte Lunch | 11:30AM2:00PM A la Carte Dinner | 5:00PM8:30PM Monday, July 3rd will follow the above hours Wednesday, July 5th | Clubhouse closed due to holiday Sunday A la Carte Lunch | 11:30AM2:00PM A la Carte Dinner | 5:00PM7:30PM August 6, Seafood Night 5:00PM7:30PM (A la Carte Menu & Grill & Chill will Weather dependent July Halfway House Hours Monday 12:00PM4:00PM TuesdaySunday 8:00AM6:00PM July 3rd 8:00AM6:00PM July 4th 8:00AM5:00PM July 5th 12:00PM4:00PM
Women’s
Transit Valley Country Club
8920 Transit Road
East Amherst, NY 14051
Main: 716-688-5500
Golf Pro Shop: 716-688-7311
Pool/Tennis: 716-688-5857
Halfway House: 716-689-9677
www.transitvalley.com
transitvalleycountryclub
transit_valley_cc
Your Club Officers & Committees
Marco F. Benedetti PRESIDENT Executive Committee
Geoffrey G. Burker
1ST VICE PRESIDENT
Greens Chair/Golf Co-Chair
Nominating Co-Chair Executive Committee
James C. Pohlman
2ND VICE PRESIDENT
Golf Chair/Nominating Chair
Ethic & Grievance Chair Executive Committee
Margaret E. Shotwell TREASURER
Finance Chair/Audit Co-Chair Insurance & Benefits Chair Executive Committee
Your Club Women’s Committee
Paula Orlowski PRESIDENT
Julie Swiatkowski VICE PRESIDENT
Carolyn Nerber SECRETARY
Karen Dobos GOLF CO-CHAIR
Jill Belote GOLF CO-CHAIR
Beth Vullo MEMBERSHIP
David Hawker
SECRETARY
Membership Chair
Ethic & Grievance Chair
Finance Committee
Executive Committee
Ravi N. Sinha
Membership Co-Chair
Golf Co-Chair
Subcommittee Handicap Chair
Omar J. Abdallah
Greens Co-Chair
Finance Committee Member
Subcommittee Handicap Committee
Keith A. Belote
Audit Chair
Greens Committee Member
Christopher T. Finley
Membership Co-Chair
Ethics & Grievance Co-Chair
Gary M. Schober
Club Counsel
By-Laws Committee Chair
Ethics & Grievance Committee
Kelly Longo ENTERTAINMENT
Annette Mills
RECREATION/CHARITY LIAISON
Francine Palermo
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
Christopher M. Myslow Chief Operating Officer/GM cmyslow@transitvalley.com
Tina Gutekunst
Director of Operations Membership Services Director tinag@transitvalley.com
Brandon Sears Assistant General Manager Food & Beverage Director bsears@transitvalley.com
Jonathan Decker, PGA Head Golf Professional jdecker@transitvalley.com
Dress Code and Denim Policy
Grill Room, Patio, & Simulator Lounge
Adam Mis Greens Superintendent amis@transitvalley.com
Dan King Executive Chef chefking@transitvalley.com
De’Ann Setter Catering and Events Specialist catering@transitvalley.com
Matt Thormahlen
Director of Recreation and Tennis matt@transitvalley.com
Country Club appropriate denim is defined as properly sized, in excellent condition, and dark in color(white or black denim is also acceptable). Country Club appropriate denim does not include holes or rips, fading or stonewash look, frayed material, denim shorts, jackets, skirts, dresses, work type denim shirts, or jeans that are worn extremely low cut. Tasteful and appropriate shirts and shoes must be worn. For men, denim must be paired with any tucked-in and collared shirt, sport coat or sweater. Country Club Attire is also deemed appropriate which is defined as: Bermuda length shorts, sundresses, collared shirts for men and appropriate women’s attire.
1921 Room (Previously the Formal Dining Room) & Ballroom
Country Club Attire will be acceptable consisting of collared shirts for men and appropriate women’s attire. Sport coats are optional but encouraged.
The intent is to not allow denim. However, denim will be permissible if the Grill Room has reached its maximum capacity.
Club/Special Events
Dress codes will be defined for all Club/Special Events and will be communicated in the newsletter
Joseph Wilkie Pool Director jwilkie@transitvalley.com
Angela Staszak
Kids’ Club Director astaszak@transitvalley.com
Brandon Sterner
Director of Food & Beverage sternerb@transitvalley.com
Members are encouraged to consider common sense when making casual-attire decisions. We prefer our members dressup rather than dress-down when visiting the Club. While we expect that members will use good taste and judgment, the Board has directed Club Management to discreetly review any inappropriate casual attire decisions directly with the member to ensure that the Club maintains a casual environment that is enjoyable for everyone.
Unacceptable Clubhouse Attire: Yoga pants, leggings,t-shirts, shorts, and athletic attire
Management Staff