The Divot: May 2023

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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.”

MAY 2023
Graphic Designer | AR Photo Courtesy of Linda Parisi

Marco F. Benedetti

Dear Members,

I would like to wish all our moms here at Transit Valley a Happy Mother’s Day!

Spring has gone by quickly and the rain and sunshine has left the course in great condition. Adam and his team have done a great job preparing the course to “mid-summer” playing condition and getting everything ready for the irrigation project and tee box work. You may have noticed red markers which outline where sprinkler heads will be placed as well as different stakes outlining a few new tee boxes and the expansion of others.

I would like to thank Tina for her continued dedication and effort showing prospective members around the club and what makes our club stand out above the rest. If you look at the new member postings, you will notice that many new members have joined us this season. If you get a chance, please take the opportunity to say hello and introduce yourself and consider participating in “The Olde and The New” 9-hole event on May 13th. It’s great to see so many new faces at the club enjoying themselves and making new friends.

Hopefully, all of you have had a chance to meet our general manager Chris Myslow over the past few months. It’s great to have him on board, he has jumped right in bringing energy and a new perspective to our operations. It’s hard to believe, but it has been six months already and I am appreciative of all the hard work from him and the staff in improving our club on a daily basis. The fire pit burners have been replaced and are working great during some of our chilly days and evenings these past couple of weeks.

Finally, I would like to thank my fellow Board Members and committees for all their work this year. The Golf Committee has planned some great tournaments and our Membership Committee has been busy reviewing our programs and our pending applications. We are forming a committee in the coming months to review our By-Laws. There have been periodic changes over the years, but it is time to complete a full review and bring refreshed By-Laws reflecting the current needs of our membership. Transit Valley is our club that we are all very proud of and I encourage you to be involved. If you are interested in participating in anyway, please reach out to Tina or me.

Thank you for your continued support. Looking forward to seeing you around the club.

2 May FROM THE DESK OF YOUR PRESIDENT
Marco Benedetti, Club President, is very excited about our Irrigation Project!

Christopher M. Myslow

“Wonderful” is the best word to describe how I feel about being a part of my first Spring season with you at Transit Valley Country Club. So here are three “Spring-like” topics I would like to talk about:

• Enhanced Club events in 2023 for your enjoyment

• Expanded membership communication over all our platforms

• Appreciation for staff and their contributions to TVCC success

Despite witnessing a winter that proved to be challenging, our entire TVCC team performed admirably, and we recorded a very successful five months. We now have packed our schedule with many exciting events for the entire Club membership to enjoy in 2023. Once the weather fully turns (please!), the team is prepared and awaits the opportunity to make your membership experience here at TVCC the best that it can be.

Our 2023 plan goal is to add much more excitement to ALL of the happenings here at the Club through the solid execution of and commitment to customer/member service. My TVCC team will be working extremely hard over the next few months on your behalf to run events that are impactful and clearly demonstrate our abilities to perform at a high level. Membership participation rates continue to be extremely high here at Transit Valley and we thank all of you for making us successful.

To better assist you in membership happenings, we will be constant communicators through the use of video, photographs and articles that will be used across all of our communications platforms. Together, we can make the entire TVCC Community feel welcome and included in all of our events. My personal goal is to have every person here feel involved in their Club.

In line with this effort, beginning in May, we will be altering our communications strategy slightly to provide more up-to-the-minute information. Nancy will be creating an abbreviated, “Divot style” calendar of Club happenings that will be distributed on a weekly basis. Each member of my team will be responsible for getting the necessary, timely information to all of you – this includes events, food specials and any coming attractions. There will still be a monthly Divot, but the new calendar version will serve as a gentle reminder for what you can expect each week.

As we up our communications and customer service efforts, please know that our overall market branding strategy of being a family friendly club that is welcoming to all is continuing to pay big dividends. Your investments here at Transit Valley make this a relatively easy selling point for prospective members and we thank you all for that.

Lastly, as we enter our new season, please remember what an important asset our staff is to your enjoyment and the success of TVCC and be cognizant of them and their rights to a positive and safe work environment. I will continue to promote that for all here at TVCC.

Please enjoy our beautiful Spring days and I look forward to seeing all of you at the Club.

3 May
FROM THE DESK OF YOUR CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER & GENERAL MANAGER

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

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

Richard Lucas Jr.

Steven Csuha

Will Rapp

Brian Snyder

Paul Snyder IV

Christopher Carroll

Michael Condino

Jonathan Plail

Matthew Lozar

Christopher LaFleur

Recreational

Recreational

Scholar

Intermediate Level 1B (35-36)

Intermediate Level 1B (35-36)

Intermediate Level 1A (37-39)

Recreational

Recreational

Intermediate Level 1A (37-39) to Resident

Intermediate Level 1B (35-36) to Intermediate Level 1A (37-39)

Comments regarding the proposed applicants should be directed to the Membership Chairman, David Hawker.

A Very Warm Welcome to our Newest Members

4 May
Ryan, Abigal, Scarlett & Kellan McGinnis Intermediate Level 1B(35-36) LiXiang, Wendy & Liam Poncz Social Members Thomas, Renee, Patrick & Andrew Quealy Resident Members Sam Moore Scholar Member Will Rapp Scholar Member Erin, Lorelei, & Jerry Fasolino Recreational Members Craig, Becky, Carter & Cameron Cieplinski Recreational Members Dr. Paul Stasiewcz & Dr. Clara Bradizza Social Members Richard & Linda McKenna Recreational

Rules Reminder

Important policies which are easily violated. Our dress code and cell phone policies:

• Denim is acceptable and must be in excellent condition, dark in color, white or black denim is also acceptable. Denim should also not include holes or rips, fading or stonewash look, and frayed material.

• For men, denim must be paired with any tucked-in and collared shirt, sport coat or sweater. The Tommy Bahama or Un-tuckit Shirts will be permitted

• Unacceptable: Yoga pants, leggings, athletic attire, t-shirts, denim shorts, jackets, skirts, and dresses

• Denim of any kind is unacceptable on the golf course and in practice areas.

• Caps: The wearing of caps for men and women is permitted prior to 5:00PM at the Bar only. They must be worn properly with the brim front facing.

• Parents: Please remember that this policy also includes children!

• Cell Phones: While dining in the Clubhouse, please keep your cell phones on vibrate, if you need to make or receive phone calls, please go to the Lobby or Locker Rooms.

Deepest Sympathy to...

Mr. Anthony DeMarie on the passing of his wife Rose.

Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Aaron on the passing of Tim’s brother, Donald Aaron.

Mr. and Mrs. Louis Fiorella on the passing of Louis’s mother.

Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday, June 7th

On Wednesday June 7th, Transit Valley Country Club will hold its first Town Hall style meeting in the Cole Room at 6:00 p.m. The purpose of the Town Hall Meeting is quite simple. We would like to provide all members with the opportunity to speak their minds regarding any operational issues at the club. Each of the Department Heads will be available for any questions, comments, or concerns. The intention is for us to demonstrate our complete management “transparency” belief while giving you an opportunity to learn more about how decisions are made here. Arrangements are being made for a video conference link as well as an audio bridge for those who cannot attend in person. This is designed to be a light and engaging discussion as to the positive growth here at Transit Valley and how we plan on delivering solid results in 2023.

5 May
MEMBERSHIP MATTERS
Acceptable Denim

May

Oregon Wine Dinner

Wednesday, May 3rd

6:00PM | Prelude

6:30PM | Dinner

Tacos & Tequila

Friday, May 5th

5:30PM - 8:30PM

June

Lobster Night

Tuesday, June 13th

5:00PM - 8:30PM

Join us for our Lobster Boil!

Soups, Salads, and Assorted Sides Buffet. Reservations are required so be sure to make them early as this is sure to sell out! Our 48 hour Cancellation Policy will be in effect.

$65 per person

Country club casual attire

A la Carte Menu will not be avilable

Kids’ Menu will be available

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!

Mother’s Day Brunch

Sunday, May 14th

10:00AM - 3:00PM

Times still available are 1:30PM & 2:00PM

All other times are full

$55.00 per adult

$22.00 per child (ages 6 - 12)

No charge for children 5 and under

Father’s Day Cookout

Sunday, June 18th

5:00PM - 8:30PM

Clams

Steamed, Raw, Casino

Salads

Tossed Caesar Salad Bowl

Ginger Watermelon

Iceberg Wedge Platter with Ranch Dressing

Rock Shrimp Orzo Salad

Charcoal Grill Station

Hamburgers & Hot Dogs

Rolls, Lettuce, Tomato, Red Onion, Condiments

Smoke Pit

Baby Back Ribs & Dry Rubbed Chicken

Entree

Chef Carved Beef Tri Tip

Roasted Fillet of Atlantic Salmon

Braised Collard Greens, Corn on the Cobb, Green Beans

Cheddar Mac & Cheese, Pee Wee Potatoes Lyonnaise

Assorted desserts from Anna & Amanda

$44.00 per Adult

$23.00 per Child (Ages 6-12)

Children 5 and under – No charge

Country club casual attire

A la Carte Menu will not be available

6 May
SOCIAL EVENTS

Happy Memorial Day

Family Fun Day at the Pool |

Monday 5 / 29

Come and spend the day with us!

Guests Welcome!

Enjoy our charcoal grilled burgers, hot dogs, chicken breast, and chopped salad station .

Kids $20

Adults $25

Meet the Coaches and sign up for Kids’ Summer Activities including:

Basketball, Pickleball, Swim Lessons, Swim Team, Junior Golf, Interclub Tennis Team, Tennis Clinics, Kids’ Club , and Sports n’ More!

All children and grandchildren of TVCC members are eligible to participate!

Activites by the pool will be canceled if there is inclement weather. No reservations needed. 1PM - 3PM

Meet the Coaches 1PM - 3PM Pool Activities Kurt the Entertainer

Cookout on the Clubhouse Patio

Monday, May 29 | 4:30PM - 7:00PM

Grilling Station, Composed Salad Station, Sides &Accompaniments

A la Carte menu will not be available. More information will be available in the May Divot.

12PM - 3PM BBQ

Pool Hours 11AM - 5PM or volume

Kids’ Club Director Angela Staszak

As I sit down to write, spring has certainly sprung, we have a beautiful 80-degree day outside and I cannot help but dream about summer. We have an incredible summer of events planned for all of our Transit Valley Kids: three to teens and everyone in between! Be on the lookout for events for each specific age group.

The continued popularity of our camp and events has allowed for the expansion of our Kids’ Club staff as well. We are proud to include the return of several veterans in addition to our first season staff.

Emma Cimino

Mercyhurst University Class of 2026

Psychology

Favorite animal: corgi

Juliet Scinta

University of Arizona Class of 2026

Fashion with a minor in marketing

Favorite animal: pelican

Ava Mamon

College of Charleston Class of 2026

Biochemistry with a minor in Spanish

Favorite animal: dolphin or dog

Mercedes Wehr

Sacred Heart Academy Class of 2023

Plans to attend Niagara University to study early childhood education

Favorite animal: flamingo

Natalee Myslinski

Clarence High School Class of 2023

Plans to attend the University of Colorado Boulder to study psychology with a minor in business

Favorite animal: elephant

Brianna Minneci

Williamsville East High School Class of 2024

Favorite animal: dog

Owen Valley

Michigan State University Class of 2026

Kinesiology

Favorite animal: dog

Ella Ferolo

Sweet Home High School Class of 2024

Favorite animal: horse

Abby Frankhouser

Williamsville East High School Class of 2024

Favorite animal: deer

Isabella Kubala

Williamsville South High School Class of 2023

Plans to attend the University at Buffalo to study pharmacy

Favorite animal: monkey

Sophia Rodriguez

Alfred State College Class of 2026

History and Adolescent Education

Favorite animal: lion

Cami Clauser

Williamsville East High School Class of 2024

Favorite animal: tiger

Sara Meldrum

Williamsville North High School Class of 2023

Plans to attend Daemen College to study early childhood education

Favorite animal: dog

Caroline Urbino

Williamsville North Class of 2023

Plans to attend Fredonia to study childhood inclusive education

Favorite animal: dog

Gwyn Fahrbach

Nardin Academy Class of 2025

Favorite animal: dog

Michael Scioli

Williamsville East High School Class of 2023

Plans to attend Miami of Ohio to study sports management

Favorite animal: lion

8 May KIDS’
KORNER

KIDS’ KORNER

TVCC “Tough Guy” Triathlon

Saturday, June 17th

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 | 1 guest per member welcome

Please bring sneakers, swim gear and dry clothes. Call the Club or email reservations@transitvalley.com to reserve your spot.

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.

Congratulations to our Palm Sunday Easter Egg Hunt Golden Egg Winners!

9 May

A Message from the Women’s Committee Paula

Orlowski President

Thank you to all the women who attended the Bakers Men of Buffalo event on March 22nd and the Women’s Annual Spring Dinner and Soiree on April 25th. Both events were well attended, and a great time was had by all.

Please refer to the Divot articles below, and on the following pages, for details on the May 18th Meet & Eat Charcuterie as well as the many activities planned to support and benefit the Women’s Charity, Home of My Own of WNY.

The month of May is our official kickoff to the women’s golf season which starts on May 4th with Women’s Opening Day. There are several golf events planned throughout the month. Please refer to this month’s Divot articles for more details.

As I mentioned in the April Divot, it is that time of the year where we start thinking about candidates to fill the positions of our Women’s Committee Members rotating off for the 2023-2024 term. I encourage all ladies of the club to consider the Women’s Committee. If you are interested, please contact me, or any member of our Committee, and we will be happy to discuss this opportunity with you in more detail. Finally, a special thank you to Kelly Longo, Julie Swiatkowski and Beth Vullo for their hard work in planning our Spring Entertainment Events and Jill Belote and Karen Dobos for creating a fun filled calendar of Women’s Golf Events.

Hope to see you around the Club and on the course!

Fellow GolFers,

The golf season is upon us!! Hopefully many of you attended our Women’s Spring Dinner and Spring Soiree! We look forward to a successful opening golf day on May 4th! Please be sure to check ForeTees to sign up for our women’s event in May, including our first Wine Down Wednesday on May 17th, the May 18th mixer, and the Spring Bird Tournament on May 23rd and 25th. We have an exciting June on tap as well:

Our inaugural 12 Hole Spring Scramble on June 1st

Wine Down Wednesday on June 7th

Women’s Mixers on June 8th and June 29th

Grandmother’s Tournament on June 15th

9 hole Guest Day on June 20th

Please remember to post your scores when you play, and consider joining in on some of our season long tournaments such as Ringers tournament, Presidents Cup 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!

10 May

WOMEN’S COMMITTEE

Enjoy your Club while supporting the 2023 Charity Event “Open the Door” benefiting Home of My Own of WNY. Mark your calendars and be on the lookout for even more fun events to come.

Games Galore, and More | Wednesday, June 21st at 7:00pm (More information on Pg. 12)

Family Bingo and Pasta Night | Tuesday, June 27th - National Bingo Day!

(Details to follow in June Divot)

Ralph Haas Invitational Stag Night | Thursday, July 27th - The men and their guests will have their own opportunity to share their generosity on Stag Night.

Auction Preview Night | Wednesday, August 9th from 5:00pm - 7:30pm - Cocktail reception with food, drink, auction, putting contest and 50/50 raffle.

Women’s Charity Golf Event | Thursday, August 10th - Breakfast, golf, lunch, auction, oh my! Members and guests will have opportunities to get involved by just attending the luncheon and auction or golfing or being a caddy. Details will be available in future divots, flyers and posters around the Club.

Additional opportunities are in the planning stages for the TVCC tennis/pickleball and pool community to come together to ‘Open the Door’ in support of the mission of Home of My Own of WNY. So, mark your calendars. Our next planning meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 9th at 7:00PM in the Women’s Locker Room. Auction donations may be left in the office. If you would like to volunteer in any way or have any questions, email or call Ellen Pachioli at the contact info below. For more information about this charity, visit www.homeofmyownofwny.org.

epachioli@homeofmyownofwny.org

(716)570-2589

18 Monta Vista Ct. East Amherst, NY 14051

Make your own CharCuterie Board

Thursday, May 18th | 7:00PM

We are excited to welcome back Kristen Cronyn, owner of Meet and Eat Charcuterie! Kristen will lead us in how to assemble the perfect combination of cheese, meat, produce, crunch, and jam, as she’s an expert in playing with flavors to ensure that everything not only looks gorgeous but tastes great in combination. Call the Club for reservations or email reservations@transitvalley.com by May 4th. Cancellation policy in effect starting May 4 until the day of the event unless we fill your spot. Or you may pick up your Charcuterie board and make it at home.

$50.00 Per person | Maximum 60 people | Guests welcome!

11 May

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, May 10th | 7PM

The Measure by Nikki Erlick.

A compelling novel, charming and thought provoking.

Wednesday, June 14h | 7PM

The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner.

Historical fiction about three women and the San Francisco earthquake of 1906.

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 TVCC Bowling League

We ended our season with an awards lunch at TVCC on March 15. We will start our Fall Session 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

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.

3rd Annual Games Galore & More!

Wednesday, June 21st | 7:00PM in the Ballroom

It doesn’t matter what game you play you are welcome to come and support our Charity. Proceeds will be going to our Charity, Home of My Own of WNY. Bring the game you wish to play. Enjoy freshly made Pizza and delicious cake. Coffee, Tea, & Water.

Mah Jongg * Canasta * Rummy Q * Pinochle * Bridge * Chess * Checkers * Monopoly, Etc. $40.00 Per person |Drinks by Signature | Guests welcome!

Please call the club or email reservations@transitvalley.com for reservations by June 16th.

Co-Chairs: Michele Pozarny and Francine Palermo

12 May

A Message from the Coach

Thormahlen Director of Recreation & Tennis

This has certainly been a long, hard winter in Western New York. Meteorologists measure snowfall in feet and inches. However, this winter I measured it by how many times I had to plow my driveway…in a single day! As crazy as it sounds, I’m looking forward to cutting my lawn and working in the garden. Needless to say, I’m definitely ready for summer to begin.

With this in mind, I am also anxious for the summer to start at Transit Valley. We have been making plans for an exciting summer of tennis, pickleball, and recreational activities for the past few months. In addition, we have several new “faces” that we’ve brought in to help with our programs. It all adds up to another great summer of fun at Transit Valley Country Club.

Our tennis staff has changed somewhat this year. Chloe Esch will be returning for a few weeks to assist with our Junior Tennis Clinics. The kids really enjoyed working with “Coach Chloe” over the last few years and she’s back for a limited time. If you meet her, ask Chloe to provide you with a “Teddy Roosevelt fact”. She knows more about this president than anyone I’ve ever met!!! We are also welcoming four new faces to help with our programs. Sophie Schwarz, Alex Gennuso, Madilynn Reed, and Siena Hyatt are our new Assistant Tennis Pros. Please welcome them to the Transit Valley family!

ADULT PROGRAMS

Pickleball 101

Never played pickleball before? In Pickleball 101, we show you how to play the game. Two sessions will be offered: Tuesday, May 30th, 6:00PM - 8:00PM OR Saturday, June 3rd, 1:00PM - 3:00PM. The cost is $30 per person.

Pickleball 102

Yes… you may know how to play pickleball. But this clinic will show you how to play pickleball strategically. The focus will be less on the strokes and more on tactics. We will offer two sessions: one on Tuesday, June 6th, 6:00PM - 8:00PM OR Saturday, June 10th, 1:00PM - 3:00PM. The cost is $30 per person.

Wednesday Night Tennis/Pickleball starts on May 31st, 6:00PM – 7:30PM. Come join us for an evening of social tennis or pickleball with other members. All levels are welcome!

Transit Valley will be hosting a Men’s Interclub Tennis event on Tuesday, June 20th, 6:00PM - 7:30PM. Come join us for a night of fun and competitive tennis.

Our 2nd annual Pickleball Invitational is scheduled for Thursday, August 17th, 6:00PM - 8:00PM. This event is for men and women. So, grab a partner and join us for this popular program. Limited to 12 teams (24 players).

Sign up for these programs by emailing Coach Matt at matt@transitvalley.com.

RECREATION
& POOL

RECREATION & POOL

The Head Start Tennis Clinics for juniors will be starting on Saturday, May 27th. Get your summer of tennis started early with these junior clinics!!!

Sports n’ More

This is a program for the kids! Each week, the Transit Valley staff will offer a different sport for which juniors may participate. One week it will be tennis…another week it will be basketball…while another week it will be golf. This program begins on Wednesday, June 21st, 5:45PM – 8:00PM.

Junior Tennis Clinics

Our most widely popular junior program is back!!! This Tuesday/Thursday program kicks off on Tuesday, June 27th. Come join your friends for an hour of tennis fun!!!

Junior Interclub Tennis Team

Come join the Transit Valley Tennis team as we compete against other country clubs in the area! Practices are held every Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00PM - 2:00PM beginning on Tuesday, June 27th. We have four matches scheduled throughout the summer.

Junior Co-Ed Basketball and Junior Pickleball

Come get in on the fun of basketball and/or pickleball for the summer!! These programs start on Monday, June 26th. Basketball, 8:30AM - 10:30AM, Junior Pickleball, 10:30AM - 11:30AM.

If you have not yet received the email that includes the registration forms for these programs, please contact the Club Office.

A Message from the Pool Director

Joe Wilkie Pool Director

We are looking forward to the warm weather of summer as many of your favorite lifeguards are returning. The Swimming pools opening weekend will be May 27th - 29th from 11:00AM – 6:00PM. Memorial Day 11:00AM – 5:00PM. If you have young ones interested in learning how to swim, make sure to stop at the pool on Monday, May 29th from 1:00PM – 3:00PM to register for swim lessons, swim/dive teams as well as sizing for swimsuits. If you have not received the email that include the registration forms, please contact the Club Office.

Adult Water Aerobics

This low impact class will incorporate cardio and strength using water dumbbells and other flotation devices. It is designed to improve joint stability, coordination, heart health and strength without the impact on your joints. Swimming skills are not required. Look for further information in the June Divot for dates and times. Any questions please contact pool director Joe Wilkie at jwilkie@transitvalley.com

Rise & Grind

Get a jump on your day with our morning workout. This class is a total body, strength and aerobic conditioning workout. The interval/circuit-based class combines full-body resistance training with high intensity bursts designed to tone your body, improve your endurance and clear your mind before you start your busy day! Takes place on the Turf by the pool. Look for further information in the June Divot or for any other questions email at jwilkie@transitvalley.com

JUNIOR PROGRAMS

A Message from The Golf Professional Jonathan

Decker, PGA Head Golf Professional

May is here and the start of the new golf season is off to a great start. The short-term inconvenience from the current irrigation project will soon have a positive impact on the golf experience for everyone and your patience and cooperation during the project is greatly appreciated. New for 2023 we are excited to launch the Wine Down Wednesday series for ladies to enjoy a night out for golf at the club. Held monthly, this will be a great opportunity for female working professionals to get a round in together or participate in a clinic followed by a featured wine pairing. For our male golfers at the club, we are currently in need of substitute players for the Thursday Night League on a weekly basis. Add your name to the weekly sub list on ForeTees for the weeks you can participate. Looking ahead toward the end of the month, the Men’s and Women’s Spring Bird tournaments currently have spots to fill. These two-day member-member events are a ton of fun and help kick-off Memorial Day weekend and the unofficial start of summer. Please consider signing up on ForeTees soon!

GolF shoP hours

MON | Closed

TUES - FRI | 7:30AM - 7PM

WEEKENDS & HOLIDAYS | 7AM - 7PM

May is new wedGe Month

BaG rooM & PraCtiCe FaCility hours

MON | 12PM - 7PM

TUES - FRI | 7:30AM - 7PM

SATURDAY | 7AM - 7PM

SUNDAY | 7AM - 6PM

As has been well documented, old worn-out wedges will produce much less spin than new ones. The best comparison is car tires and their ability to maintain their grip on the road as they wear. The “stopping” power slowly diminishes and players will see their golf balls roll out more. A good rule of thumb is to replace your sand and lob wedge every 100 rounds. During May we will be offering $10 off all wedges when purchasing two or more. My staff and I are available for wedge fittings at no charge to help players identify the ideal loft and bounce for their game.

Ghin sCore PostinG

GHIN score posting resumed for Western New York on April 15th. All members maintaining a handicap should post their gross (actual) hole-by-hole scores the date the round was played. Posting hole-by-hole scores will implement the maximum net double bogey rule. GHIN updates daily and handicaps can change the day following a posted score. The Transit Valley Golf Shop will post all rounds when a scorecard is distributed.

15 May

PaCe oF Play

As the temperature increases, so will the number of golfers making their way on to the course. The Golf Committee would like to remind everyone that all groups teeing off in the first 90 minutes of play are expected to play in under four hours, with the remaining groups required to play in four hours and nine minutes or less. For everyone to enjoy their round as much as possible we need to do everything we can to ensure a great experience. Being mindful and considerate of your fellow players will make the biggest impact, so please consider following the items below to help us achieve our goals.

• Arrive to the tee at least five minutes before your tee time

• Play Ready Golf

• Keep up with the group ahead of you

• Hit a provisional ball if you think your ball could be lost

• Limit search time for lost balls to three (3) minutes or less per the Rules of Golf

• If sharing a golf cart, take multiple clubs with you to your ball

• Allow faster groups to play through if there is a hole open ahead of you

• Do not sit down to eat at the Halfway House during the round – take advantage of the TVCC App for food orders if needed and take your items to go.

Putters

If you watch golf on television or happen to look at the equipment of your foursome, you likely have seen the evolution of mallet putters. In 2023 the majority of players on the PGA, LPGA, and Champions Tours have traded in their blade style putters in favor of a mallet. If the best players in the world have made the switch, perhaps you should too? The biggest reason for the change is the added forgiveness or stability from using a mallet over a traditional blade. Just like cavity back irons and oversized drivers, the increase in size allows for weight to be distributed outward and make off-center hits more consistent. Stop by the TVCC Golf Shop to check out the latest options.

24th annual ralPh haas invitiational

Thursday, July 27th - Saturday, July 29th

Registration for the event will be open from Monday, May 1st until Sunday, May 14th. Please note that the field will be limited to 72 teams and if sold out, past participation will be used to determine priority into the event. Registration is not on a first-come, first-serve basis, but all entries must be completed within the registration window to be considered. All members and guests must have a valid GHIN handicap.

Get GolF ready

This will be a six-session clinic series geared toward beginner golfers. Each session will be an hour and cover a wide range of topics from grip, stance, posture, alignment, terminology, basic rules, and course etiquette. Wednesdays 5:30pm-6:30pm: May 3rd, 10th, and 17th & Saturdays 10:30am-11:30am: May 6th, May 13th, and May 20th. Players are encouraged to bring a putter, wedge, 7-iron, and driver, but please know the Golf Shop can provide clubs if needed. Registration will be on ForeTees and is open to all adults at the club. Program registration will be $149/person.

16 May

62ND ANNUAL CLETE FOX INVITATIONAL

Rounds 1,, 2, & 3

Friday 6|2 & Saturday 6|3

The Clete Fox is one of the longest running scratch member/guest Invitationals in Western New York. The event was started in 1962 by longtime member George Angelo who named the tournament after one of our first club presidents, Cletus Fox.

• 36 holes on Friday and 18 holes on Saturday for the championship flight.

• 18 Friday and 18 Saturday for the senior flight.

• Special shoot-out contest after Friday’s rounds.

• Both the member and guest must be at least 55 years old for Senior flight.

• The Clete Fox committee has a list of area scratch golfers for any TVCC member who is unable to secure a partner for the event.

• Included in the event is a practice round and a pair of Foot Joy Golf Shoes.

FRIDAY JUNE 2ND

7:30AM – 8:30AM | Championship Flight Round 1

11:00AM – 12:00PM | Senior Flight Round 1

12:00PM – 1:00PM | Championship Flight Round 2

6:30 | Breakfast Grill Room

(Championship Flight Only)

Breakfast Sandwich

Scrambled Egg, Sausage, Cheese, English Muffin

Fresh Cut Fruit Cup, Granola Bars

7:30AM | Hole #6 & Halfway House

Bagged Snacks

Bananas

Candy Bars

Canned Beer, Canned Soda, Bottled Water, Gatorade

10:15AM | Main Patio Lunch

Grilled Chicken “Club” Sandwich

Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato, Mayo

Cole Slaw, Baby Dill Pickle, Cookies

4:30PM | Pro Shop Lawn

Assorted Pizzas

Approx. 4:45 | Senior Shoot-out

Approx. 5:45 | Championship Shoot-out

SATURDAY JUNE 3RD Tee Times Starting at 12:00PM

12:00PM | Hole #6 & Halfway House

Bagged Snacks

Candy Bars

Bananas

Canned Beer, Canned Soda, Bottled Water, Gatorade

4:30PM | Light Appetizers on the Main Patio

Firecracker Shrimp

Pork Belly Nachos

Spinach and Asiago Mushroom Caps

Swedish Meatballs

Artichoke Dip

Please consider making an A la Carte dinner reservation.

5:30PM | Awards

$350 per

ChampionshipTeamFlight

$320 per Team Senior Flight

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this great Transit Valley event!

Co-Chairs: Randy Kramer, Robert DeWitt, & Kelly Fitzgerald

17 May

THE OLDE AND THE NEW TOURNAMENT

saturday, May 13th

Teams will feature longer tenured members paired with newer members of the Club.

2:15PM | Join us on the Driving Range for Light Hors d’oeuvres

3:00PM | Shotgun

9-Hole Scramble with Photo Booth and Snacks on Course

5:30PM | Small Plate Stations

Cold Poached Atlantic Salmon with Spring Vegetable Mélange

Thai Spring Rolls ~ Rice Noodles, Shoots & Sprouts, Ginger, Cilantro, Lime, Thai Basil

Grilled Southwestern Style Short Ribs ~ Mexican Rice, Tortilla, Crema Petite Dessert Display

Chairs: Tony & Sheila Delmonte, James & Jodi Schwegler

$55.00 per player

WOMEN’S WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY

May 17th & June 7th

A little something for everyone and a great way to meet others!

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.

May 17th

Wine Pairing by signature featuring Prosciutto Wrapped Melon, White Peach Syrup, Champagne Dressed Chicory paired with La Bernarde, Provence France Rose Wine

June 7th

Wine Pairing by signature featuring Lemon & White Chocolate, Dark Chocolate Cherry, & Milk Chocolate Almond

All Chocolate and Wine Pairings must be pre-ordered 48 hours prior to the event.

If you plan on staying for dinner, please make a reservation by calling the Club or emailing reservations@transitvalley.com.

WOMEN’S SPRING BIRD

ROUNDS 1 & 2

tuesday, May 23rd | round 1

2 Player Net Better Ball

Improvement Tournament

Tee times starting at 1:30PM

Boxed lunch available before golf

thursday, May 25th | round 2

7:30AM | Breakfast for 18 Holers

9:00AM | Breakfast for 9 Holers

Yogurt bar with an array of toppings

8:30AM | 18 Hole Shotgun

10:00AM | 9 Hole Shotgun

On course snacks

Lunch service featuring Chicken Francaise

$115.00 per person

MEN’S SPRING BIRD ROUNDS

1 & 2

saturday, May 27th | round 1

2 Player Better Ball

7:00AM | Steak and Egg Breakfast

8:30AM | Shotgun

Chili Station on the turn

Lunch on Patio

From the Smoker: Jerk Chicken, BBQ Ribs, & Wild Salmon

sunday, May 28th | round 2

Format: Shamble

7:00AM | Made to order Omelet Station & Scrambled Eggs

8:30AM | Shotgun

Caribbean Conch Chowder on the turn

Lunch on the Patio

Philadelphia Flat Iron Steak Sandwich

$195.00 per person

18 May

WOMEN’S SPRING SCRAMBLE “GRIP IT AND SIP IT”

thursday, June 1st

9:00AM | Shotgun playing Holes #7- #18

Format: 2 Person Scramble - use 4 drives from each person

12:00PM | Lunch

Chairs: Jill Belote and Karen Dobos

$60.00 per Player

Soup and Salads

Cappuccino Mushroom Bisque

Saffron Niçoise

Bibb Lettuce with Radish, Boiled Egg, & Creamy Avocado Dressing

Petite Chicken Milanese

Assorted “Taco” Station

House Smoked Salmon with Asparagus Tips, Alfalfa, & Crema

Mixed Summer Vegetables, Napa Slaw, Feta, & Tomato Vinaigrette

Sliced Barbeque Beef Brisket, Sweet Potato Slaw, Cheddar Cheese

Desserts

Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake

Assorted Mousse Cups, including

Lemon/Blueberry

Coffee & Tea Station

MEN’S JUNE GUEST DAY

wednesday, June 14th

1:00PM | Shotgun

Format: Two Best Balls of Four (Silver Tees) 85% Handicap

12:00PM | Outside the Locker Room

Red Wild Boar Chili

Rice, Tortilla, Crema

Beverages - Drinks by Signature

1:00PM | On Course Food & Beverage Stations

5:30PM | Hors d’oeuvres on the Side Patio

5:30PM – 6:30PM | Open Bar

6:15PM | Dinner Buffet in the Ballroom

$195.00 per person

GRANDMOTHER’S TOURNAMENT

thursday, June 15th

Individual Stroke Play

8:30AM | 18 Hole Shotgun

10:00AM | 9 Hole Shotgun

12:00PM | Assorted Cheese Display with Fresh Berries

12:30PM | Lunch Buffet

Chopped & Composed Green Salad with Bleu Cheese Vinaigrette

Chilled Asparagus, Lemon Dill Fingerling Potatoes, Seafood Louis Stuffed Tomato, & Chef Carved

Marinated Angus Beef

Warm Berry Crepe ala mode

Chairs: Barb Schober and Pat Ryan

$60.00 per Person

WOMEN’S 9 HOLE GUEST DAY

tuesday, June 20th

Format: Shamble

4:30PM | Shotgun

On Course Snacks| Halfway House and #6

Petite “Shake” Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette

Truffle Parmesan Popcorn

6:30PM | Tabled Hors d’oeuvres

Triple Cream Brie with Berries and Baguette

7:00PM | Dine around Stations

Small Plates

Seared Sea Scallop ~ Sweet Pea & Onion Puree

Tendrils Baby Beets & Goat Cheese ~ Toasted

Almonds, Balsamic Reduction, Virgin Oil

Buttermilk Fried Chicken ~ Mashed Potato, Collard

Greens, Gravy

Grilled Sliced Flat Iron Steak Fajita ~ Flour Tortilla, Roasted Chilies & Onions

Crema Lemon Curd Profiteroles

Chairs: Cindy Fohrd and Stacey Weinstein

$100.00 per person

19 May

A Message from the Greens Superintendent

Adam Mis

We are currently having a cool/wet spring, but things are still progressing. The irrigation contractor is onsite and is moving along installing the new system.

The grounds staff have been working very diligently on getting the course ready and are still working on projects. We have completed the forward tees at #13 and #15 and are working on the tees at #9 and #12. As you can see, our staff are proud of their work.

We are also working on the new event area next to the putting green. This area will be perfect for future club events and private parties.

I also included a recent interview from Golf Course Trades Magazine that highlights the great things that are happening at the club. Looking forward to a great season!

https://www.golfcoursetrades.com/get-to-know-adam-mis-of-transitvalley/

20 May
21 May May 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 Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Specials Pasta Night Kids’ Club Lunch Service 11:30AM2PM Limited a la Carte Dinner 5PM7PM Clubhouse Closed Canasta Book Club 7PM Mah Jongg Thursday Night Men’s Spring League Women’s Stitch Along Fish Fry Kids’ Club The Olde & New Tournament Pasta Night Kids’ Club Mother’s Day Brunch A la Carte Dining not available Clubhouse Closed Outside Golf Event Canasta Women’s Wine Down Wednesday Mah Jongg Women’s Mixer Women’s Meet & Eat Charcuterie Thursday Night Men’s Spring League Women’s Stitch Along Fish Fry Kids’ Club Pasta Night Kids’ Club Lunch Service 11:30AM2PM Limited a la Carte Dinner 5PM7PM Clubhouse Closed Outside Golf Event Women’s Spring Bird Round 1 Canasta Mah Jongg Women’s Spring Bird Round 2 Thursday Night Men’s Spring League Women’s Stitch Along Fish Fry Kids’ Club Men’s Spring Bird Round 1 Pasta Night Kids’ Club Pool Open 11AM6PM or volume Lunch Service 11:30AM2PM Limited a la Carte Dinner 5PM7PM Men’s Spring Bird Round 2 Pool Open 11AM6PM or volume Memorial Day Family Fun Day Sign up for Kids’ Summer Programs/Meet the Coaches Pool Open 11AM5PM or volume Cookout on the Clubhouse Patio Clubhouse Closed due to Holiday Course opens at noon Canasta Adult Tennis/Pickleball 6PM7:30PM Canasta Oregon Wine Dinner Mah Jongg Women’s Opening Day Thursday Night Men’s Spring League Women’s Stitch Along Tacos & Tequila Kids’ Club Cinco de Mayo Celebration A la Carte Menu, Fish Fry, & Kids’ Club not available Clubhouse Closed For reservations, please call the club at (716)688-5500 or email reservations@transitvalley.com May Dining Room Hours Monday Closed TuesdaySaturday A la Carte Lunch | 11:30AM2:00PM A la Carte Dinner | 5:00PM8:30PM Sunday A la Carte Lunch | 11:30AM2:00PM Limited A la Carte Dinner | 5:00PM7:00PM May Halfway House Hours Opening is weather dependent

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

Krista A. Griffin Chief Accountant accounting@transitvalley.com

Matt Thormahlen Director of Recreation and Tennis matt@transitvalley.com

Joseph Wilkie

Pool Director jwilkie@transitvalley.com

Angela Staszak

Kids’ Club Director astaszak@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

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

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