The Club will be closed for a la carte dinner service on Sunday, February 8th. Super Bowl To-Go orders will be picked up at your preselected time from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm.
Due to Family Valentine’s Brunch, regular brunch service will not be available on Sunday, February 15th. Regular a la carte dinner service will be available.
Due to An Evening of Small Plates, the regular a la carte dinner menu will not be available on Saturday, February 28th. A menu of specially crafted small plates features will be available.
HaveExcitingNewstoShare?
Weencourageourmemberstosharewithustheinterestingandexcitingthingshappeninginyourlives!Pleasesend your details to Collin Cramer at collinc@foresthillscc.net. We will do our best to include your information in our upcomingnewsletter.Thedeadlineisalwaysthe20thofthemonth.
Brendan Pecorella joined the FHCC culinary team in March of 2025. From the first day, Brendan has been a positive influence on the entire culinary operation. He is always willing to go the extra mile for our membership or to assist other team members in any way he can. Brendan is the consummate
DearForestHillsCountryClubMembers,
On behalf of the Board of Directors, thank you to everyone who attended one of our recent Town Hall meetings. It was a productive discussion marked by thoughtful questions, meaningful dialogue, and a shared commitment to the long-term success of Forest Hills Country Club. Below is a recap of the proposed capital project, including the vision, scope, financialstructure,andnextsteps.
Forest Hills has thrived for more than 60 years because of responsible stewardship by its member-owners The Board’s primary focus is ensuring the Club remains a place where current members want to spend their time, while also evolving to remain competitive with otherprivateclubsinourmarket.
Guided by extensive member feedback through surveys, conversations, and focus groups, the indoor dining experience emerged as the highest priority for improvement. At the same time, the Board and the Long Range Planning Committee (LRPC) were intentional about balancing visible enhancements with essential infrastructure investments that protect the Club’s assets and support long-term sustainability.
The Board, in consultation with the LRPC, is proposing a $4.5 million capital investment package that addresses both member experience and critical infrastructure needs.
Indoor Dining Renovation - $3,327,000
A significant component of the proposal is the renovation of the indoor dining and bar areas. This project is designed to resolve functional challenges while refreshing the space to better serve today’s membership.
Project Objectives Include:
Creating a modern “vibe” while maintaining the warmth and elegance of a traditional country club
Improving workflow, functionality, and storage
Opening the floor plan to enhance exterior views and natural light
While Less Visible, These Projects are Critical to Safety, Playability, and Operational Reliability:
Valley Course Bunkers: Upgrading to the Better Billy Bunker system to reduce washouts and improve consistency across both courses
Bridge Replacements: Replacement of the walking bridge on Championship Hole 7 and two cart bridges on Valley Hole 7, all of which are nearing the end of their useful life
HVAC Equipment Upgrades: Replacement of aging systems serving the Terrace Room, Club Room and surrounding hallways
Riprap Grouting: Reinforcement of creek intersections to prevent erosion during heavy rainfall
Financial Investment Details
To maintain a sound financial model and avoid taking on additional debt, the Board has proposed a member assessment structured over four installments beginning in May 2026.
Installment Amount (4 Payments)
$2,375 Per Payment
$1,781 Per Payment
$750 Per Payment
Manager’s Report’s Continued
Installments are Anticipated in:
May 2026 January 2027
September 2026
Anticipated Project Timeline:
May 2027
Spring 2026: Valley Course bunker construction begins (completion anticipated by the end of May)
Fall 2026: Bridge replacements and riprap grouting begin
January 2027: Indoor dining renovation construction begins
June 2027: Anticipated completion of dining renovations
The Town Hall Q&A Session Generated Productive Discussion on Several Topics:
Maintenance Facility: While acknowledged as a need, the LRPC has moved this project to a 3+ year planning horizon to allow time for appropriate engineering and design studies.
Wine Storage: The current proposal preserves the popular wine lockers while improving circulation and flow within the dining areas.
Financial Strategy: Some members expressed interest in longer-term financing; however, the Board emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility and avoiding additional debt at this time.
Membership Category Assessment Spread: The Board set assessment amounts as a consistent percentage of overall dues, resulting in different amounts by membership type, in line with past practice and after consulting multiple committees. This approach balances equity, protects dues stability, and avoids Social Member assessments that could exceed the cost of joining, helping maintain full participation across all categories.
Members are encouraged to review the full presentation materials and schematics available here or by scanning the QR code below. Official voting information will be shared in the coming week.
Should the project be approved, management will continue to communicate proactively regarding timelines, construction impacts, and operational plans to minimize disruption and keep members informed throughout the process.
Thank you for your engagement and thoughtful consideration of this important initiative. On behalf of the Board of Directors, we appreciate the continued involvement of our membership as Forest Hills plans for the future.
Best regards,
General Manager/COO
Member Statement Late Fee Notice
Scan the QR code to view the Town Hall Presentation:
PLEASE NOTE: The board has approved increasing late fees on member statements to 5% per month, effective February 28, 2026.
Setting up autopay through our website, www.foresthillscc.net, is quick and easy.
For step-by-step instructions, simply scan the QR code.
Scan the QR code to view autopay instructions:
Notes from the Board Chair by Steve Sigman
FellowClubMembers,
ThankyoutoallmemberswhoparticipatedintherecentTownHallmeetingsfocusedonthe indoordiningprojectandotherimportantinfrastructureinitiatives.Thestrongengagement and thoughtful questions reflect how much our members care about Forest Hills and its future.Wehopethediscussionswerehelpfulandaddressedyourquestions,butifanything remainsunclear,pleasedon’thesitatetoreachouttoanymemberoftheBoard
Asamember-ownedclub,weareallstewardsofForestHillsCountryClub Withthatcomes the responsibility to maintain, protect, and enhance our assets so the Club remains vibrant and thriving not just for today, but for our future as well. The Board takes this responsibility seriously and remains committed to thoughtful, long-term planning that balancesmemberenjoymentwiththeneedsoftheclub.
I would also like to extend heartfelt congratulations to Tracy Cahalane, our Forest Hills Employee of the Year. Tracy is a key leader on our Grounds team and an integral part of what makes our Club so special. She works tirelessly, always with a positive attitude and a smile, and her dedication does not go unnoticed.
We are incredibly fortunate to have Tracy on our team. Please be sure to congratulate her when you see her around the course, likely on a tractor.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support and involvement in Forest Hills Country Club.
SteveSigman
Board Chair
A Message of Gratitude by Ryan
Schaben
Dear Forest Hills Country Club Members,
After more than eight years at Forest Hills Country Club, I am writing to share news of an exciting yet bittersweet next chapter of my professional journey.
Forest Hills has been far more than just a workplace to me; it has been a defining part of my career. Over the past four years serving as Membership Director, and the subsequent four years as Assistant General Manager, I have had the privilege of working alongside an exceptional team and an engaged membership. I am deeply grateful to Emma Gore, CCM, for her support over the years and to my coworkers. The experiences I have gained and the relationships I have built will remain with me always, and I am proud of the progress we have made together in enhancing the member experience at Forest Hills Country Club.
After much thought and careful consideration, I have accepted a new position as Assistant General Manager at Red Rocks Country Club in Morrison, Colorado. This role has been structured as a succession plan, as the current General Manager has announced his pending retirement, and I will have the opportunity to step into the GM/COO position in the future. While this opportunity represents an exciting professional advancement, it does not come without a sense of sadness in leaving a club and community that has meant a lot to me
I leave with full confidence in the leadership and the staff that is in place, and I am excited to see the Club continue to thrive in the years ahead
It has truly been an honor to be a part of all the great things that Forest Hills has accomplished.
With sincere appreciation and best wishes.
RyanSchaben
Assistant General Manager, Forest Hills Country Club
Tracy Cahalane
DearForestHillsCountryClubMembers,
We are entering a stretch of colder weather that will result in the recent snow accumulation remaining for an extended period. These prolonged cold conditions will cause the ground to develop a deeper frost layer. As temperatures begin to rise and the surface starts to thaw, we will need to take extra care by restricting play on the greens until a minimum of 4 inches of unfrozensurfacehasdeveloped.
This is the time of year when we closely monitor conditions related to root shearing and evaluate when adjustments to play or course operations may be necessary. Our decisions during these colder periods are made with the long-term health of the turf in mind, helping ensurestrongplayingconditionswhenspringarrives
What is Root Shearing and Why Do We Restrict Play?
Root shearing occurs when the top layer of the green thaws while deeper soil remains frozen, leading to a soft surface that can cause damage when golfers walk on it. This damage is often not immediately visible but can lead to thinning turf and weakened playing surfaces later in the spring.
When frost is present, we may restrict cart traffic or limit play to protect the turf from this type of injury These decisions are made carefully and with the long-term health of the course in mind, helping ensure better conditions for everyone as the growing season begins. Please click on the link here to see how the USGA explains this dilemma.
Drainage Projects
We began a drainage project at Championship Hole #17 prior to the recent snowstorm due to ongoing concerns with the area becoming progressively wetter over time. This project required addressing several issues simultaneously.
Two existing drains bordering the Zoysia fairway were collapsing, creating holes along the perimeter. Additionally, a drain installed years ago along the cart path edge had begun pulling away from the path, reducing its ability to capture water and causing the cart path to hold water following nightly irrigation. We also identified the need for an additional cart path drain in another low area that consistently held water. Finally, the area required regrading to improve surface drainage toward the existing and newly installed inlets.
All of this work was successfully completed; however, weather conditions prevented us from restoring the area with sod. The sod is currently on site and staged in the overflow parking lot, ready for installation once conditions allow. We look forward to completing the project and delivering the finished results.
We look forward to seeing everyone back on the course as soon as the snow cover is gone!
Course Superintendent
Gradi t I S f D inage
Additional Drainage Inlet
ScottReynolds
Golf
MEMBERSHIP UPDATE
! Help us celebratethese milestonesfor ourfollowing members:
40+ Years
50+ Years
Carole Borchelt (Joined 2/1/1974)
Larry Thayer (Joined 2/21/1975)
Lee Reid (Joined 2/21/1979)
Dick Buckman (Joined 2/5/1984)
Scott Douglass (Joined 2/5/1985)
Fred Salerno (Joined 2/6/1985)
10 Years
Gary Wimberly
1 Year
Vinnie Cacciatore
Tommy Pelfrey
Tracy Ring
Social Members on the Golf Waitlist
Jed and Kristin Drinen and their kids, Audrey and Reece
Sponsored by:
Dan and Keelyn Swidrak
Dick and Denise O’Connor
Social Members on the Golf Waitlist
Jeff and Renee Rogles and their kids, Brady and Bennett
Sponsored by:
Brian and Rachael Day
Chuck and Sheryl Hessler
and Karen Babb
Sponsored by:
Brent and Kate Wiley
Matt and Kena Ott
Jeff
New Member Only Signup Policy for Events
To ensure our members have priority access to our most popular, large-scale events, the Club has implemented a Member-Only Registration Period. For select events, members will have one week to register exclusively for themselves and their immediate family before guest registration opens. After the member-only period concludes, members may then add guests to their registration.
The Member-Only Registration Period will apply to the following events: Easter Fair, Easter Brunch, Haunted Autumn Extravaganza, Breakfast with Santa, Brunch with Santa.
Specific dates will be listed on the event flyers and on ForeTees. We appreciate your understanding and support as we continue to prioritize member access while still welcoming guests when availability allows.
Finally, we travel back across the pond to Italy for the last wine on our list, Monte Santoccio Amarone Classico, $18/glass.
This is certainly a true cold-weather wine, with complex aromas of blackberries, plum, and cherry jam as well as subtle hints of balsamic.
If you have not yet signed up for our February Wine Dinner on the 21 , there's still time! The Robert Mondavi dinner would make a perfect late Valentine's Day outing, although we of course hope to see you on the 14 as well!
th
I hope everyone stays warm and we'll see you at the Club soon!
VictoriaZimmerman
Director of Food and Beverage
by John de Greck
jdegreck@verizonnet
The January weather was surprisingly mild, and we were lucky to have the course facilities open for a few days. The Club may have been in a shutdown the rest of the time, but the Seniors were out there filling divots. No rest for the weary!
Here is a preview of what is in store for the 2026 season. President Sherman and JT have come up with a few new ideas to make the play a bit more interesting this year.
The Senior Match Play and Two-Man Match Play Championships will be conducted similarly to the President’s Cup and Two-Man MGA events. We’ll have a qualifying round, and then the opponents will schedule their own matches.
The 2026 season will include a new “Net Skins” event, a blind draw 2-man scramble, a “Flag Day” and a Stableford points event, among other surprises.
The Opening Luncheon is scheduled for Wednesday, March 18th, with regular play starting the following week.
It is surprisingly easy to hole a 40-foot putt when you lie 7…
ROBERT MONDAVI WINE DINNER
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21ST
6:00 PM RECPETION WINE
6:30 PM DINNER
$120 + PER PERSON
SIGN UP ON FORETEES
RECEPTION WINE
Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Skewer
Robert Mondavi Sauvignon Blanc 2022
FIRST COURSE
Citrus Crab Salad
Jumbo Lump Crab, Ruby Red Grapefruit and Blood Orange
Supremes, Citrus Mint Vinaigrette, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Fresh Herbs
Robert Mondavi Chardonnay 2021
SECOND COURSE
Duck Confit Ravioli
Butternut Squash, Candied Lemon Peel, Brown Butter Sauce
Robert Mondavi Estate Oakville Red Blend 2019
THIRD COURSE
Braised Beef Shank with Marrow Bone
Roasted Root Vegetables, Toasted Brioche Crouton
Robert Mondavi Estate Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
FOURTH COURSE
Grilled Iberico Pork Chop
DESSERT
Banana
Black Cherry Rosemary Compote, Candied Bacon Polenta, Ginger Carrot Salad
To Kalon Vineyards Highest Beauty Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Rum Crepe with Blackberry Mascarpone
NEXT MEETING: WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11TH • 10:30 AM
The Morning Book Group will begin 2026 on February 11th, with a discussion of the best-seller The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon. Other best-selling choices for the new year include The Glassblower of Murano by Marina Fiorato (March 11th); My Friends by Fredrik Backman (April 8th); and Theo of Golden by Allen Levi (May 13th). The group meets at 10:30 am on the second Wednesday of each month and welcomes new members
Evening Book Club by Carolyn Cash
NEXT MEETING: WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18TH • 6:00 PM
Welcome to winter It’s time to curl up in front of the fire with a good book Why not try The Kingmaker by Sonia Purnell. Also, sign up to join us for a light dinner and discussion on Wednesday, February 18th. Please be sure to make a reservation on ForeTees or by calling the Club at (636) 227-5030. If you are reading ahead, our March selection is The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Messer. Look forward to seeing you all there.
Forest Hills Country Club
36 Forest Club Drive
Chesterfield, MO 63005
If the electronic copy of On Course fails to meet your family’s needs, and you would ike to opt-in to receiving a physical mailing, please notify Collin Cramer at collinc@foresthillscc.net. Copies are also available in the Clubhouse Lobby.
Club Contacts
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Stephen A. Sigman Board Chair Long Range Planning Chair
Edward A. Dorch Golf Chair
Michael A. Flavin Grounds Chair
Michael C. Buescher House Chair
John D. Mazzola Food and Beverage Chair
Robert M. Whiting Vice Board Chair
David A. Linenbroker Secretary
Craig L. Parres Governance Chair
Adam J. Wilburn Membership Chair
Melinda W. Jeffries Racquets Chair Swim Chair
Nicholas A. Licavoli Finance Chair Treasurer
Michael
Thomas J. McKittrick Director Emma Gore, CCM
Scott Reynolds, GCS Grounds Superintendent 636 227 5044 • scotts@foresthillscc net
Julie Kennedy Controller 636 207 3513 • juliek@foresthillscc net Abby Le Director of Human Resources 636.230.2507 • abbyl@foresthillscc.net
Ryan Schaben Assistant General Manager
636.207.3512 • ryans@foresthillscc.net
Jimmy Bals, PGA Director of Golf
636.227.1528 • jimmyb@foresthillscc.net
JT Tierney, PGA Head Golf Professional 636 227 1528 • jtt@foresthillscc net
Ali Kaplan Director of Membership & Marketing 636 207 3545 • alik@foresthillscc net
