THE CREEK
BOARD OFTRUSTEES
Michael Hughey
President
Dean Kramer
Vice President
Chris Noyes
Treasurer
Tyler Prime
Secretary
Joe Canataro
Scott Duman
Sean Fox
Kiel Gilliland
Erich Herkloz
Dan Katona
Thomas Koerner
Greg Markus
HOURSOFOPERATION
GOLF
INSIDETHISISSUE
GeneralManagerInsights
ElishaCancelli
Transparency was one of the key topics discussed at our Annual Meeting, and it is a subject I care deeply about. Throughout my career, as Treasurer of my condominium association for more than 10 years and as a committee member of a charitable foundation, I have seen firsthand the importance of open communication and accountability.
I can assure you that our Board and management team work diligently to make decisions that serve the best interests of our membership While not every member will agree with every decision, those decisions are made thoughtfully and with the goal of benefiting the Club as a whole
That said, we recognize that we can do a better job of keeping members informed In response to your feedback, we will be introducing a new section on the members-only area of our website and app, where you will be able to view summaries of Board meetings Because official meeting minutes must be approved at the subsequent Board meeting, there will be a slight delay before information is posted, but we believe this is an important step toward greater transparency
I also want to provide an update on the Palmer House project, which has generated considerable interest among members We have not communicated sooner because we did not have sufficient information to share until recently
Over the past several months, the Palmer House Committee conducted extensive research and obtained pricing for the demolition and reconstruction of the existing structure After careful evaluation, it became clear that the cost of such a project would be prohibitive. As a result, we have chosen a different approach.
Rather than rebuilding, we are exploring the concept of a comprehensive refresh of the space that will provide a renewed look and feel consistent with the Club's image, while doing so at a significantly lower cost. Given the reduced scope of the project, we anticipate that this will be a viable option that can be completed over the fall and in service by the time we open in the spring.
The Palmer House refresh is just one example of the many initiatives regularly discussed by the Board and our committees In every case, our goal is to invest the Club's resources responsibly and in ways that deliver the greatest value to our membership
While the Board, management team, and committee members spend considerable time listening to members and gathering feedback, it can be difficult to measure those perspectives in a meaningful way To help us better understand the priorities of our membership, I am pleased to announce that the Board has approved a comprehensive member survey
After reviewing proposals from three firms, we selected GGA Partners to assist us with this important initiative The survey will help us gain a clearer understanding of what members value most about the Club, what they would like to preserve, and where they see opportunities for improvement
Additional information about the survey will be shared in the coming weeks, with distribution expected in July We encourage every member to participate, as the results will play a critical role in developing our 5- to 10-year strategic plan and helping shape the future of our Club.
Thank you for your continued engagement, feedback, and support.
MembershipMatters PattyFagan
After such a long and cold winter, it was certainly disappointing that Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial kickoff to summer, turned out to be such a washout Thankfully, one rainy weekend is certainly not going to dampen our spirits as we gear up for what promises to be an incredible summer season at Laurel Creek
On the membership side, it has been an especially busy and exciting time meeting with families interested in becoming part of the Laurel Creek community Whether it is because of our Member Referral Program or simply the wonderful reputation our members continue to build for the Club, I truly appreciate all of you who continue sending your friends and family my way Your trust means so much to me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to provide them with the same level of service and hospitality that makes Laurel Creek so special
We are once again back to having a waitlist for all Full Golf Membership categories, which speaks volumes about the continued demand for the Laurel Creek experience House and Social Memberships do remain available, and it has been wonderful welcoming so many new families into the Club.
One of the things that makes Laurel Creek unique is the incredible variety of events and programming offered throughout the year This summer’s calendar is packed with exciting family events, social gatherings, golf tournaments, and activities for all ages. In addition to our larger signature events, we are also excited to introduce smaller educational and lifestyle seminars throughout the year that bring members together in a different and meaningful way
Our first seminar of 2026 focused on a topic many of us can relate to all too well here at Laurel Creek allergies, asthma, and everyday wellness We were fortunate to welcome Dr Shashank Sheth for an incredibly informative and engaging discussion regarding allergies, asthma, and overall wellness for both adults and children.
I would like to sincerely thank Dr Sheth for sharing his expertise and time with our membership. The feedback following the seminar was overwhelmingly positive, with many members reaching out to thank the Club for hosting such a valuable event
One member, Nadia Koerner, shared something that truly touched me. She wrote, “I just wanted to let you know that the allergy seminar was fantastic! Very informative and interactive For the first time, I feel like there may be hope for managing my daughter, Aalia’s food allergy ” Comments like that are exactly why we are excited to continue offering programs like these throughout the year.
I always especially love our June issue because it gives us the opportunity to showcase Laurel Creek’s high school and college graduates Many of these young men and women are kids I have watched grow up here at the Club over the years, which makes seeing them reach this milestone even more meaningful I wish all of our graduates tremendous success and happiness as they begin their next chapter
I would also encourage everyone to take a few moments to read this month’s Membership Profile featuring the Venne family in the following pages John and Laura, along with their family, have been such an important part of Laurel Creek, and it was truly a pleasure highlighting their story and John’s many years of service to the Club.
On a personal note, this June also marks my 10year anniversary at Laurel Creek, which is honestly hard for me to believe The years have absolutely flown by, and I feel incredibly blessed to work in a place and with people I genuinely love so much. There is a quote that says, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life ” That sentiment could not feel more true for me I am so thankful for the friendships, relationships, and memories built over the last decade, and I look forward to many more wonderful years ahead at Laurel Creek. Happy Summer!
NewMembers
Brian Santosuosso & Lauren Sadusky
MemberSpotlight:TheVenneFamily
When John and Laura Venne moved to Moorestown in 2013, they weren’t necessarily searching for a country club lifestyle. They were searching for a place to build a life and raise a family
At the time, Laura was pregnant with their second son, Chase, and the couple was preparing to leave Northern Liberties in Philadelphia for South Jersey, where Laura’s brother already lived For John, an avid golfer who grew up in Bensalem, the idea of living on any golf course sounded appealing enough.
“As far as I was concerned, if there was an opportunity to live on a golf course, that was good enough for me,” John shared with a laugh. “I honestly didn’t even know much about Laurel Creek at the time ”
What they discovered, however, far exceeded expectations.
“I remember someone approaching me on the driving range that first summer and telling me there was a group of guys I should try to play with,” John recalled. “The rest was history.”
Over the years, Laurel Creek became much more than a golf club to the Venne family It became part of the fabric of their everyday lives
“My kids have been around this place since the day they were born,” John said. “They’ve had golf clubs in their hands almost as long.”
Living on the course has given the family a front-row seat to countless memories John and Laura have watched their sons, Chase and Jack, grow from little boys riding in the golf cart beside their dad to young golfers confidently walking the course on their own. Along the way came Junior Golf, family dinners, holiday traditions, and plenty of moments that now feel woven into the family’s story
Some of the boys’ favorite memories are simple ones: the Christmas cookie bake, Mother’s Day celebrations, and Chef Pete’s famous mac and cheese, which became such a staple in the Venne household that John once emailed Chef Pete asking for the recipe
But beyond the activities and events, John believes Laurel Creek helped shape something even more meaningful
“I’m a bit of a traditionalist,” he explained “Being part of a club like ours comes with standards tucking in your shirt, removing your hat in the clubhouse, making eye contact when you shake hands, showing respect to the staff and management A club doesn't teach those values; it expects them And that expectation is its own kind of lesson My boys are learning that some environments hold you to a higher standard, and that you rise to meet it not because someone is watching, but because that's who you are.”
For John, Laurel Creek has always been about creating a place where the entire family could belong, not just the golfer in the household That philosophy became especially important during his many years serving on the Board.
“When I joined Laurel Creek and was starting a family, I wanted membership to mean something for everyone in the household,” he said “I couldn’t ask Laura to become a golf widow”
John has spent nearly two decades serving on boards between Laurel Creek and Torresdale, helping guide the evolution of club culture from a more golf-centric environment into the familyoriented club Laurel Creek is known for today
“The men and women who have served on the board and committees over the years have genuinely cared about moving the Club forward and creating meaningful experiences for members,” he shared. “I’m proud to have played a small role in that ”
As John steps off the Board this year, his focus has shifted toward something even more important to him: time with family.
“My boys are 14 and 12 now,” he said “The next five to ten years are going to shape the men they become, and I don’t want anything standing between me and every possible moment I can spend with them ”
That sentiment resonates deeply with Laura, who shared her own heartfelt perspective about what Laurel Creek has meant to their family over the years
“Many of my favorite moments are simply coming to Laurel Creek for dinner with just the four of us,” Laura wrote. “Life gets busy with two boys and their schedules, but Laurel Creek has always given us a place to slow down, sit together, and talk No fields and no screens ”
She smiled describing what has become a family tradition of their own: sitting in their favorite booth by the window.
“Laurel Creek has become our Cheers,” she said “The place where we walk in and everyone knows our names ”
As John concludes his time on the Board, Laurel Creek is incredibly grateful for the years of leadership, dedication, and care he has given to the Club Board service often happens quietly behind the scenes, requiring countless hours of meetings, conversations, and thoughtful decision-making, all with the goal of helping Laurel Creek continue to grow and thrive for future generations of members. John’s passion for family, community, and the long-term vision of the Club has helped shape much of what Laurel Creek represents today, and we sincerely thank him for his many years of service
When asked what Laurel Creek means to the Venne family, John answered without hesitation. “If I had to use one word, it would be family,” he said “It truly is a second home Not a metaphor A second home ”
And perhaps that is the beauty of Laurel Creek. Beyond the golf course, the dinners, the events, and the traditions, it becomes part of the story families build together over time For the Venne family, that story is still being written
The19thHole BobHennefer
Handicap Posting Reminder & Scoring Guidelines
As we move into the heart of the golf season, the Laurel Creek Golf Committee would like to remind all members of the importance of posting all acceptable scores promptly and accurately in the GHIN app.
Maintaining accurate handicaps helps ensure fair competition and an enjoyable experience for all members throughout the season
Important Posting Reminders
Scores should be posted on the day played whenever possible, but no later than 48 hours after the round
Rounds with 7–12 holes completed should be posted as a 9-hole score using Net Par for holes not played
Rounds with 13 or more holes completed should be posted as an 18-hole score using Net Par for holes not played
Holes started but not completed should be recorded using the player’s Most Likely Score under USGA guidelines.
The Net Double Bogey limit applies for handicap posting purposes
When entering scores hole-by-hole in the GHIN app, players should enter their actual gross score, as GHIN will automatically apply any necessary adjustments
Tournament Scores
All eligible tournament scores will be posted to GHIN through Golf Genius by the Golf Shop staff whenever applicable Players are responsible for verifying scores before submitting scorecards at the conclusion of play
Posting Compliance
The Golf Committee periodically reviews posting records to help maintain consistency and fairness for all members Members who demonstrate repeated missing acceptable scores or posting irregularities may be contacted by the Committee for clarification or follow-up.
We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and commitment to protecting the integrity of the handicap system at Laurel Creek
LCWGA
JUNE ON THE FAIRWAYS: COMPETITION, CAMARADERIE, AND CELEBRATION US
As we head into the heart of the season, the energy across the league continues to build. The fairways are in great shape, participation remains strong, and it’s been wonderful to see so many familiar faces and a few new ones out enjoying competitive golf and good company President and Secretary’s Cup matches are underway
This year we were able to field two Women’s Gap Association of Philadelphia teams! Both teams had some successful matches, played some great courses and met some lovely women The team members included our Captain Christine Blessing, Donna McHugh, Eileen Ramasamy, Stephanie Moccia, Eileen Burke, Susan Schaming Odegard, Linda Toogood, Janie Spitznagel, Heidi Bourke, Susan Kaufman, Angela Rekant, Gina Kassak, Chrissy Duman, Lynne Demmerley, Lynn Sergi, Nicki Faubell, Rita Gordon, Kelly Redcay, Joanne Seltzer, Dana Phipps, Nikki Katona, Julie Knowles and Sara Pastorius. Much thanks to our captain Christine for organizing and leading our teams!
Our Nine hole match team has been battling hard week after week and is currently sitting in third place in the standings with one match to go. Congratulations to Sue Studley, Jen Halfpenny, Heidi Bourke, Julie Knowles, Dana Phipps, Rita Gordon, Joanne Seltzer, Kathi Smith, Linda Angstreich and Mary Ann Stack Your teamwork, determination and sportsmanship are paying off Thank you Sue for organizing this team event!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
One of the most anticipated events of the season, the Member-Member tournament takes place on June 3rd and 10th Our theme this year is “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. You can play one week if you can’t commit to two. If you need help finding a partner reach out to Heidi Bourke heidihmh@yahoo com
Sign up on the App
On June 30th, we’ll be hosting a Red, White & Birdie Nine and Dine event and you won’t want to miss it This fun-filled evening on the course will serve as a kickoff celebration for the nation’s 250th anniversary later that week The event starts at 5:30pm and there will be a light dinner following golf.
Expect a festive atmosphere, friendly competition, and plenty of red, white, and hopefully birdies!! Whether you’re chasing birdies or just enjoying the evening, this event is designed to celebrate both our game and a historic milestone for our country Looking Ahead
Thank you to everyone who continues to support the league by playing, volunteering to run matches and events, and cheering each other on Be sure to sign up early for upcoming events, check the schedule regularly, and invite a fellow member to join you for a round. The season is flying by, and the best is still ahead.
Here’s to great golf, great friendships, and a memorable summer on the course!
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR COLLEGE GRADUATES!
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES!
K-POP PARTY
WHITE PARTY AT THE POOL
POOL IS OPEN WEEKENDS ONLY UNTIL JUNE 20TH
EmployeeoftheMonth
VictoriaDuarte
Victoria has been a Hostess at Laurel Creek since 2024 and is currently finishing her senior year of high school She is known for her sweet, kind, and pleasant demeanor with both members and fellow staff While naturally a bit shy, Victoria consistently brings a warm and positive attitude to every shift.
Victoria is always willing to lend a helping hand whenever needed and can consistently be counted on to support her teammates during busy shifts Her dependable nature, strong work ethic, and caring attitude make her a valued member of the Laurel Creek team. She approaches every task with professionalism and kindness, helping create a welcoming environment for both members and staff alike
Victoria’s dedication and team-first attitude truly make her a wonderful example of the type of employee we are proud to have at Laurel Creek Congratulations, Victoria!
Chef’sCorner PeteRosenblatt
Beat the summer heat with our refreshing Summer Tomato Gazpacho, a chilled Spanish-style soup bursting with the flavors of vine-ripened tomatoes, crisp cucumber, sweet red bell pepper, and fresh herbs
Blended until silky smooth with extra virgin olive oil and a touch of sherry vinegar, this vibrant cold soup is light, flavorful, and incredibly refreshing. Perfect for warmweather lunches, appetizers, or outdoor gatherings, it's a delicious way to enjoy the season's freshest ingredients
Summer Tomato Gazpacho
Yields 2 quarts
3 large ripe tomatoes
1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded and chopped
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
¼ cup red onion, chopped
1 small clove garlic, peeled
1 ½ inch slice of Italian bread or baguette
2 tbsp. chopped cilantro
¼ tbsp chopped basil
1 quart tomato juice
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp sherry vinegar
Salt and black pepper to taste
Working in batches, puree all of the ingredients in a blender until smooth Chill for 2 hours before serving
OntheCourts
DanBatchelor
The courts have been busy, clinics and lessons are underway, and it’s been great seeing so many members out playing, competing, improving, and spending time together on court Our Ladies Cup teams are now halfway through the season and continuing to compete hard each week, with some great wins along the way A special congratulations to our Cup 6 team, who currently sit at the top of their league – a great reflection of the effort and team spirit across the group Thank you to all of our Ladies Cup players for representing Laurel Creek so well throughout the season.
Our Laurel Creek Pickleball League team has also been competing hard against MFC and RCC and continuing to make Laurel Creek proud With just a couple of weeks remaining, the team is in a strong position and well placed to compete for the league title Good luck as you head into the final stretch!
Monday night padel has been a lot of fun so far It’s been great getting a group together to play a sport that is social, easy to pick up, and enjoyable for players of all levels. We’ve had some fun rallies, plenty of laughs, and a great atmosphere each week. We’ll continue organizing a padel night once a month through the summer, so keep an eye out if you’d like to join us
We’re also excited to continue our Tuesday Night Pickleball Open Play Whether you’re looking for competitive games, social play, or simply a chance to meet more players at the club, it’s a great opportunity to get on court. Be sure to sign up through the app!
Upcoming Events:
June 5 Dinks & Drinks: You can dink, you can drink… or why not do both? Join us for a fun evening of pickleball, good company, and a relaxed social atmosphere Bonus points if you can manage both at the same time!
June 12 Ladies Member-Guest: Join us for a fun morning of tennis, friendly competition, and lunch in the clubhouse with friends and our Laurel Creek community
June 15 Summer Tennis Camp Begins: Summer camp season is here, and we’re looking forward to another great summer on court with our juniors.
June 25 Woods & Whites Mixer: Channel your inner Wimbledon player by wearing your whites and joining us for a fun evening on court We’ll play some king of the court with wooden racquets for fun before switching to regular racquets for a mini round robin.
There’s a lot happening around the club this month, and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone out on court As always, you can find more information at my Linktree or please reach out with any questions Don’t forget to sign up through the app!
FromtheGreens
JohnSlade
It's hard to believe, but it was over 13 years ago that we initially installed a fan at the first tee putting green When the green was rebuilt, we took a wait and see approach as to whether or not the fan was still required.
Well, last summer's hot, swampy weather provided a resounding "yes" to this question While many things have changed over the past decade, others have not, and this would include the growing environment in this area The green is obviously open on the front, but the back half gets limited morning sunlight and air flow In fact, as the trees continue to grow, the environmental conditions for this green are declining over time.
Fortunately, when the fan was removed during the green construction project, the power supply was not However, we did have to dig another five and a half foot deep hole and pour a thousand pounds of concrete to support the fan
This will definitely provide a breath of fresh air when the dog days arrive
